Hosanna
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(salvation) (Matt. 21:9, 15; Mark 11:9, 10; John 12:13). The word first occurs in Psalm 118:25, one of the psalms sung at Passover. According to some, it was a customary greeting and response among pilgrims arriving at Jerusalem for the feast and was also used by priests when offering sacrifices. During the Feast of Tabernacles the word was repeatedly cried by crowds who passed in great numbers around the altar and wove branches for booths. With this same acclamation the Hebrews expressed their joy, goodwill, love, and devotion to the Savior during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matt. 21:9).