hymn etymology

Etymology

The word "hymn" comes from the ancient Greek word "hymnos" (ὕμνος), which is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*h₂-men-". This root also gave rise to the Latin word "hymnus" and the English word "hymnal".

Meaning

A hymn is a song of praise or adoration to a deity, particularly one used in religious worship. Hymns are typically characterized by their solemn or reverent tone and their use of poetic language and imagery.

Origin

The tradition of hymns dates back to ancient times. In ancient Greece, hymns were sung to honor gods and goddesses, and were often accompanied by music and dance. The earliest known hymns are the Homeric Hymns, which were composed in the 8th century BCE.

In the Hebrew Bible, hymns are found in the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of religious songs and poems. The psalms were originally sung by the Israelites during religious ceremonies, and many of them have been adopted by Christian churches as hymns.

In the early Christian Church, hymns were used as a way to express devotion to God and to teach the faith. Many of the early Christian hymns were written by anonymous authors, but some of the most famous hymns, such as "Amazing Grace" and "Rock of Ages", were written by well-known hymn writers such as John Newton and Augustus Montague Toplady.

Hymns continue to be an important part of Christian worship today. They are used to express praise, thanksgiving, repentance, and other emotions, and they help to create a sense of community within the congregation.

hymn relate terms

  • hymnal

    Etymology From Middle English himnal from Anglo Norman hymnal from Latin hymnarium

  • hymn

    Etymology The word hymn comes from the ancient Greek word hymnos ὕμνος which

  • anthem

    Etymology The word anthem comes from the Middle English anteme which in turn derive

  • paean

    Etymology The word paean is derived from the Greek word παιάν paian and ulti

  • Magnificat

    Etymology Magnificat is a Latin word derived from the first word of the canticle Magn

  • triumph

    Triumph Etymology Latin triumphus triumphal procession from Greek θρίαμβο

  • chorale

    Etymology The word chorale comes from the Latin word choralis which means of or pe

  • antiphon

    Etymology Ancient Greek ἀντίφωνος antiphōnos Literally means answering i

  • laud

    Etymology The word laud originates from the Latin word laudare which means to prais

  • extol

    Etymology From Old French extoller from Latin extollere extollere meaning to lift u

  • latex

    Etymology The word latex is derived from the Latin word latex meaning liquid or m

  • sign

    Etymology The word sign comes from the Latin word signum which means mark token o