The Hebrew meaning for word Hosanna is to ‘save or rescue.’ It also can mean ‘savior.’ I think sometimes we can think of the word Hosanna as a ‘triumphant’ word or expression but in most instances it is a cry for help. I find it fascinating that the Israelites used the word ‘Hosanna’. Little did they know that it would become not only a cry of help for those who were there in that moment, but it would become a prophetic statement for all of humanity. The Israelites did not know that Jesus was about to die for the sins of the world so that we could have eternal life. They were calling out to a Savior to save them.
For me personally, I love that this song has so much tension in it. Especially in the chorus and bridge. I feel like in that moment when Jesus was being ushered down the streets of Jerusalem, there would have been tension. A sense of praise, wonder and adoration – but equally at the same time there would have be sadness, sorrow and desperation.
Hosanna, Hosanna
In the Highest forever
Hosanna, Hosanna
Hallelujah forever
The chorus is so simple yet it conveys that tension. We are declaring when we sing Hosanna ‘Lord save us, rescue us’. Then we balance it out with praise with the lines ‘In the highest forever’ and ‘Hallelujah, forever’.
This is such a great way and powerful way to approach our relationship with Jesus. We need to present to Him what we need saving from or rescuing from in our lives. But when we do, we must not forget the importance of bringing our praise and adoration to Him even in our darkest moment of need. The tension is where the Lord is. He hears our cries and he deserves our praise.
- Ben Cantelon on Hosanna