The exclamation “Hosanna!” rings out prominently in the New Testament, particularly during Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew 21:9, Mark 11:9, John 12:13). While often understood simply as a cry of praise, the word carries a much deeper, urgent, and messianic significance rooted in its Hebrew origins. To truly grasp “what does Hosanna mean,” we must delve into its linguistic background and its prophetic fulfillment in the context of Jesus’ ministry.
The Hebrew Root and Urgent Plea
The term “Hosanna” comes from the Hebrew phrase hoshia na (הוֹשִׁיעָה נָּא), which literally means “save, please!” or “save now!” It is an urgent petition or plea for deliverance. This phrase is most notably found in Psalm 118:25: “Save us, we pray, O Lord! O Lord, we pray, give us success!” This Psalm is part of the Hallel psalms (Psalms 113-118), which were traditionally sung during major Jewish festivals, including Passover. The plea for salvation was a cry to God for deliverance from distress or oppression.
When the crowds shouted “Hosanna!” during Jesus’ entry, they were not merely expressing adoration; they were articulating a deep-seated hope and expectation for messianic deliverance. They were witnessing what they believed to be the arrival of the promised King who would rescue them, likely from Roman occupation and oppression, and restore the glory of Israel. The word “Hosanna” therefore embodies both an earnest request and an expression of hope-filled recognition. Read more about Psalm 118
Hosanna in the Triumphal Entry: A Messianic Proclamation
The use of “Hosanna” during the Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21:9) is layered with messianic implications. The crowds cried out, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” This acclamation directly references Psalm 118:25-26, identifying Jesus with the promised deliverer. The title “Son of David” unequivocally points to Jesus as the Messiah, the rightful heir to David’s throne, who would bring salvation.
However, the salvation Jesus offered was different from the political liberation many in the crowd expected. While they hoped for an earthly king to overthrow Roman rule, Jesus came to bring spiritual salvation, freedom from sin and death. The dramatic scene, with Jesus riding on a donkey, fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, portraying a humble King who comes with salvation, “righteous and having salvation, humble and mounted on a donkey.” The shouts of “Hosanna” were a declaration of His messianic identity, even if the full scope of His mission was not yet understood by those proclaiming it. Read more about the Triumphal Entry
From Plea to Praise: The Evolving Meaning
Over time, particularly within Christian tradition, “Hosanna” evolved from a pure plea for “save now” into an exclamation of praise and joy, implicitly acknowledging that salvation has come or is coming through Jesus. When we sing “Hosanna,” it carries the understanding that God has heard our cry for salvation and has acted definitively through Christ. It combines the urgency of the initial Hebrew plea with the joyful recognition of God’s redemptive work.
In conclusion, “what does Hosanna mean” is a powerful testament to the intricate weaving of Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment. It is a cry that simultaneously petitions for divine intervention and celebrates the arrival of the One who brings that salvation. It reminds us of God’s enduring commitment to deliver His people, a commitment ultimately realized in Jesus, who is indeed our “Hosanna” – our salvation now and forever.