The Hallel, A Song of Love and Freedom

In his book, Rebwar Audish Basa follows the canonical exegesis and focuses on a group of Psalms (113–118) which is traditionally known as a unit called “the Hallel” and is used on the major Jewish liturgical feasts. The author examines the hypothesis that Pss 113–118 form a single canonical unit with Ps 118 not only belonging to it but also being the climax of all the psalms of this group. A thorough investigation evaluates the unity of the Hallel and its function and message. The research concludes with the affirmation that the psalms of the Hallel are not put together arbitrarily but with a very precise intention, deep significance and main theological message. Actually, beside the uniqueness of each psalm, Basa affirms the unity of this group and the flow and the development of its themes and ideas. In the last chapter and in the conclusion, some important points regarding the unity of the Hallel are presented together with some of its significant characteristics.