Tehillim

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The collection of Hebrew poems and prayers found in the biblical Book of Psalms ; a central book of the Tanakh used for devotion and liturgy ; sacred songs recited or sung in Jewish tradition
2. The Psalter or anthology of psalmic hymns in Jewish scripture ; a compilation used in worship and personal supplication ; the set of ancient Hebrew verses expressing praise, lament, and prayer
3. The biblical anthology of poetic supplications integral to Judaism ; a book of psalms chanted or read in spiritual practices ; the canonical set of lyrical prayers from the Hebrew Bible

Etymology: The term "tehillim" originates from Hebrew, where it is the plural form of "tehillah," meaning "praise." This word carries deep religious and cultural significance, primarily as the title for the Book of Psalms in the Hebrew Bible. The Psalms are a collection of poetic hymns and prayers traditionally attributed to King David, composed to express a wide range of human emotions directed toward God—praise, lamentation, thanksgiving, and supplication. The word "tehillim" itself encapsulates the essence of these compositions as songs of praise. In Hebrew, "tehillah" derives from the root "h-l-l," which broadly relates to praising or shining. This root is also the source of the word "hallelujah," which literally means "praise Yah" (Yahweh, the name of God). The Psalms were known collectively as "tehillim" because they function as praises sung or recited in worship, often in both communal and private settings. The plural form emphasizes the collection of these individual songs rather than a single hymn. The Book of Psalms has had a profound influence on Jewish, Christian, and even secular traditions throughout history. Its Hebrew name, "tehillim," is still used today, especially in Jewish liturgical contexts, where the recitation of psalms is a significant practice for prayer, meditation, and solace. This term entered English usage primarily through religious scholarship and translations, retaining its Hebrew form to reflect its specific religious and cultural roots rather than being translated into a generic term like "psalms." Thus, the journey of this word from ancient Hebrew into modern usage is not just linguistic but also spiritual, carrying with it centuries of devotional practice and literary art. Its simple meaning of "praises" belies the rich emotional and theological depth contained within the texts it names.

Synonyms: psalms, psalter