The Definition of Praise
Praise is man’s expression of love in response to God’s person (who He is) and works (what He does). The glory of God is the fullness of His person. The grace of God is the fullness of His works. The response of praise involves expressions of our total being in blessing, adoration, thanksgiving, confession, and celebration.
There are seven primary Hebrew words for praise:
Hallal –to be vigorously excited; to laud, boast, rave, to celebrate.
Yadah – to worship with extended hands, to throw out the hands, enjoying God.
Todah – to extend hands in thanksgiving.
Zamar – to pluck the strings of an instrument, to praise with song.
Barak – to bless; to declare God the origin of power for success, prosperity, and fertility; to be still.
Tehillah – singing of the Hallals.
Shabach – to comment, address in a loud tone, to shout.
