praise, the name given to the group of Psalms 113-118, 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 (Mt 26:30; Mr 14:26).

There is also another group called "The Great Hallel," comprehending Psalms 118-136, which was recited on the first evening at the Passover supper and on occasions of great joy.

The name given in Rabbinical writings to the Ps 113; 114; 115; 116; 117; 118

This term, which signifies 'praise,' is used by the Jews in reference to certain of the Psalms.

1. The Egyptian Hallel embraces Psalms 113 - 118. It was so called because it was chanted in the temple while the Passover lambs, which were first enjoined in Egypt, were being slain. It was also chanted in private when the Passover was kept; and it is thought that the 'hymn' mentioned in Mt 26:30; Mr 14:26 refers to part of this Hallel.

2. The Great Hallel. This is so called because of including Psalm 136, in every verse of which is the response "His mercy endureth for ever." Maimonides says it includes Psalms 118 - 136. Others say it begins at Psalm 120 or Ps 135:4. It was recited on the first evening of the Passover, also on any special occasion.