Guide to Hallel: Psalms of Praise

Hallel is a collection of six Psalms (113-118) recited as songs of praise and thanksgiving to God. The word 'Hallel' comes from the Hebrew root meaning 'to praise.' These psalms were sung by the Levites in the Temple and continue to be recited on joyous occasions when we celebrate God's miracles and salvation.

Full Hallel includes all six psalms and is recited on: First two days of Pesach (one day in Israel), Shavuot, all days of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah, and all eight days of Chanukah. Half Hallel (with two paragraphs omitted) is recited on: Rosh Chodesh, the last six days of Pesach, and Yom Ha'atzmaut (in some communities).

Hallel begins with a blessing ('likro et haHallel' or 'ligmor et haHallel') and ends with a blessing. The six psalms are: Psalm 113 (Halleluyah, praise servants of God), Psalm 114 (When Israel went out of Egypt), Psalm 115 (Not to us, but to Your name give glory), Psalm 116 (I love that God hears my voice), Psalm 117 (Praise God all nations - shortest psalm), Psalm 118 (Give thanks to God for He is good).

Hallel is recited standing, as it is considered like testifying to God's greatness. It is said during Shacharit, after the Amidah and before the Torah reading. With a minyan, certain verses are repeated responsively. If praying alone, simply recite the entire text. The blessing before Hallel should only be said if reciting the complete Hallel (or on Rosh Chodesh according to some customs).

We recite only half Hallel on the last six days of Pesach because the Egyptians drowned in the sea during this time. The Midrash teaches that God silenced the angels who wanted to sing, saying 'My creations are drowning in the sea, and you want to sing?' This teaches us to temper our joy when it comes at the cost of others' suffering.

On Passover night, Hallel is split into two parts during the Seder. The first two psalms (113-114) are recited before the meal, and the remaining four (115-118) are recited after. This unique arrangement connects the Exodus story told during Maggid with the songs of praise, making the Hallel part of the storytelling rather than a separate prayer.