From a Wikipedia source, “Etymology:   The word hosanna (L
atin osanna, Greek ὡσαννά, hōsanná) is from Hebrew הושיעה־נא, הושיעה נא hôšîʿâ-nā.   It is related to Aramaic אושענא (ʾōshaʿnā) meaning “save, rescue, savior”.   In the Hebrew Bible it is used only in verses such as “help” or “save, I pray” (Psalms 118:25).

I was baptized on Palm Sunday and hold that day as special for many reasons. I can imagine in my mind the glorious arrival of our rescuer and savior on His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, down the palm strewn road; it must have been an event of much attention. Many new believers lined the roadside shouting “Hosanna.” How thrilled they were to see Him ride humbly on the back of a donkey, perhaps smiling and nodding as he passed them by. Our dear Lord knew what pain was ahead for Him, the palm waving thongs were unaware of what was to come.

Palm branches were an ancient symbol of victory and gladness. Some churches today save the branches and burn them on Shrove Tuesday of the next year to be used on Ash Wednesday, the next day.

We know the “end of the story,” so when Palm Sunday arrives to begin Holy Week in our liturgical year, we can shout Hosanna and know in our hearts, Jesus is our savior and rescuer. He chose us to be His! Shout Hosanna, in the highest. We are loved unconditionally and cherished by our Rescuer.

Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest!

Jill