Sadly, some entertainment professionals have used this beautiful, meaningful, lovely word in demeaning, derogatory and disgusting manner. Christians in India were enraged, upset and angry.
There are some words that are globally recognized: Coco Cola; Toyota; Microsoft…etc. The name is not changed, though such names are pronounced will little accent variation. Hallelujah is also known around the world, across several countries, culture, language borders.
The Hebrew twin word Hallelujah means ‘Praise the Lord’; combination of two words: Praise or giving glory and Lord God (Jehovah). Praising God who is the creator, sovereign ruler, eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, self-existing, loving, saving, redeeming, truth and life. God is not impersonal or insensitive or unconcerned. God of the Bible is personal, loving, so he sent His Son Lord Jesus Christ into this world to redeem the world. Hence, he is worthy of all worship, adoration and love. Hallelujah expresses this grateful acknowledgment of greatness of God. This exclamation, worship, praise, thanks, adoration is used in liturgy, songs and preaching by Christian community. Interestingly, some denominations use Hallelujah frequently and they are branded as ‘Hallelujah’ group or sect even by non-Christians. In other words, ‘Hallelujah’ gives them a new identity too.
How do we respond to people who offend us? We follow the model of Lord Jesus Christ. No anger, No bitterness, No revenge. Instead as Lord prayed, we also pray: “Forgive them, for they know not what they do”. Unknowingly, they are dishonouring God of Glory.
Also, that word Hallelujah had become talk of the town when used to offend Christians– discussed in tea/coffee shops too. Such incidents create an opportunity to share the Gospel of love, truth, life, way and forgiveness through all platforms – Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, Twitter and share multiple times.
Even when I am offended, do I say Hallelujah and share the meaning.