hymn
A hymn is a song of praise addressed to God or centered on His works and character. In Scripture, hymns are part of the church’s worship and instruction.
At a Glance
A hymn is a song of praise addressed to God or centered on His works and character. In Scripture, hymns are part of the church’s worship and instruction.
Description
A hymn is a sacred song of praise offered to God, often focusing on His character, works, salvation, and worthiness. In the Bible, singing is a regular expression of worship among God’s people, and the New Testament includes hymns within the gathered life of the church alongside psalms and spiritual songs (for example, Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). Some interpreters attempt to distinguish precisely between these song categories, while others understand them as overlapping terms for kinds of worship music used by believers. The safest conclusion is that Scripture clearly commends reverent, truth-filled singing that honors God and edifies His people, even if the exact boundaries of the terms are not fully certain.