In the Bible, “hallowed” refers to something that is made holy or sacred, often associated with God’s name and presence. It signifies reverence and the act of setting apart for a sacred purpose, as seen in the Lord’s Prayer where it states, “hallowed be thy name” (Matthew 6:9).
Scripture
8 “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
9 Six days you shall labor, and do all your work,
10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates.
11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
Meaning of “Hallowed” in the Bible
The term “hallowed” in the Bible conveys a profound sense of reverence and sanctity, heightening our awareness of God’s nature and character. To “hallow,” particularly in the context of the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9), expresses the invocation of God’s holiness, urging believers to recognize the sacredness of His name and the need to treat it with awe and veneration. This concept aligns with the Hebrew understanding of holiness, as seen in texts like Leviticus 11:44, where God commands His people to be holy as He is holy. The act of hallowing God’s name is not only an acknowledgment of His divine attributes but also an invitation for believers to cultivate a lifestyle that reflects that holiness in their own lives.
Furthermore, the broader biblical narrative underscores the idea that what is hallowed is set apart for divine purposes. In Exodus 3:5, when Moses encounters God in the burning bush, he is instructed to take off his sandals, as the ground he stands on is holy. This highlights the transformative power of God’s presence, which sanctifies space and time. Similarly, in the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus, certain days and objects were designated as hallowed to facilitate communion with God and reflect His near and holy presence. As believers seek to hallow God’s name in their lives, they are invited to embody His holiness in their thoughts, actions, and relationships, thus becoming vessels through which the sacred can manifest in the world. By embracing this command to hallow, they participate in the ongoing narrative of God’s work in redeeming and purifying creation.
The notion of “hallowed” extends beyond isolated passages, resonating throughout various scriptures that illustrate its significance in both personal and communal worship. One prime example is seen in the concept of the Sabbath, which is treated as a day set apart for rest and reflection on God’s work of creation. By observing the Sabbath, believers hallow this time, dedicating it to spiritual renewal and communion with God. This practice underscores the importance of distinguishing sacred time from ordinary time, inviting worshippers to focus on their relationship with the Creator and reinforcing the expectation of living in a way that honors His sanctity throughout the week.
Moreover, the prophetic literature frequently emphasizes the need for hallowing God among the nations. Prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel speak of God’s name being sanctified among those who do not know Him, portraying a vision where His holiness is acknowledged and revered universally. This underscores the responsibility of God’s people to reflect His character in their actions and interactions, compelling them to act justly and live righteously. By hallowing God’s name in their lives, believers not only affirm their allegiance to Him but also become instruments of His glory, demonstrating to the world the transformative power of living in accordance with His holiness. Such commitment contributes to the broader mission of making known the greatness of God and fostering an environment where His name is celebrated and revered across all cultures and generations.
The Concept of Holiness
In the Bible, “hallowed” signifies something that is set apart as sacred or holy. This concept of holiness is central to the understanding of God’s nature and His relationship with humanity. When something is hallowed, it is distinguished from the ordinary and is often associated with divine presence or purpose. This idea encourages believers to recognize and respect the sacredness of certain places, times, and practices in their spiritual lives.
The Importance of Reverence
“Hallowed” also conveys the importance of reverence in worship and daily life. To hallow something is to treat it with the utmost respect and honor, acknowledging its significance in the context of faith. This reverence is not only directed towards God but also extends to His commandments, His creation, and the community of believers. By hallowing aspects of life, individuals cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and mindfulness in their spiritual journey.
The Call to Sanctification
Furthermore, the term “hallowed” reflects a call to sanctification for believers. It implies a process of becoming holy or set apart for God’s purposes. This sanctification involves a transformation of character and behavior, aligning one’s life with divine principles. The act of hallowing encourages believers to strive for purity and righteousness, fostering a closer relationship with God and a commitment to living out their faith in everyday actions.
How to Cultivate Holiness and Reverence in Christian Life
Cultivating holiness and reverence in our Christian lives is a journey that requires intentionality and a heart open to transformation. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing God’s Word to shape your thoughts and actions; consider setting aside time each day for prayer and meditation, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you in understanding and applying biblical truths. Surround yourself with a community of believers who encourage and challenge you to grow in faith, as fellowship can be a powerful catalyst for holiness. Additionally, practice gratitude and mindfulness in your daily activities, recognizing God’s presence in both the mundane and the extraordinary. Remember, holiness is not about perfection but about a sincere desire to reflect Christ in all you do. As you strive for reverence, let your actions be a testament to your faith, showing love and kindness to others, and seeking to honor God in every aspect of your life.
Bible References to the Meaning of “Hallowed”:
Leviticus 22:31-33: 31 So you shall keep my commandments and do them: I am the Lord.
32 And you shall not profane my holy name, that I may be sanctified among the people of Israel. I am the Lord who sanctifies you.
33 who brought you out of the land of Egypt to be your God: I am the Lord.”
Isaiah 8:13-14: 13 But the Lord of hosts, him you shall honor as holy. Let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.
14 And he will become a sanctuary and a stone of offense and a rock of stumbling to both houses of Israel, a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
Matthew 6:9-13: 9 Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”
10 Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Luke 11:1-4: 1 Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.”
2 And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come.
3 Give us each day our daily bread,
4 and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.
1 Peter 3:15-16: 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;
16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.
Revelation 15:3-4: 3 And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and amazing are your deeds, O Lord God the Almighty! Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations!
4 Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.