Bible Dictionaries
Hallel

Easton's Bible Dictionary

Praise, the name given to the group of Psalm 113118-118 , which are preeminently psalms of praise. It is called "The Egyptian Hallel," because it was chanted in the temple whilst the Passover lambs were being slain. It was chanted also on other festival occasions, as at Pentecost, the feast of Tabernacles, and the feast of Dedication. The Levites, standing before the altar, chanted it verse by verse, the people responding by repeating the verses or by intoned hallelujahs. It was also chanted in private families at the feast of Passover. This was probably the hymn which our Saviour and his disciples sung at the conclusion of the Passover supper kept by them in the upper room at Jerusalem (Matthew 26:30; Mark 14:26 ).

There is also another group called "The Great Hallel," comprehending Psalm 118136-136 , which was recited on the first evening at the Passover supper and on occasions of great joy.