During the Saturday morning session, President Russell M. Nelson told the Saints they would participate in a solemn assembly and hosanna shout the following day. What is the Hosanna Shout and why is it important? How is the Hosanna Shout done? Continue reading for more information on this sacred ritual.
The Hosanna Shout was first introduced to the Saints at the dedicatory services for the Kirtland Temple on March 27, 1836. Joseph Smith wrote: “President Rigdon then made a few appropriate closing remarks, and a short prayer, at the close of which we sealed the proceedings of the day by shouting hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to God and the Lamb, three times sealing it each time with amen, amen, and amen.” The Hosanna Shout reminds of the Lord’s triumphal entry to Jerusalem during the final week of his life.
Since that time, the Hosanna Shout has been performed at temple dedications and solemn assemblies. Occasionally, it has been performed at other sacred events and meetings as dictated by the Spirit and the leaders present.
The Encyclopedia of Mormonism states:
The Hosanna Shout is whole-souled, given to the full limit of one’s strength. The congregation stands and in unison shouts the words “Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna to God and the Lamb. Amen, Amen, and Amen,” repeating them three times. This is usually accompanied by the rhythmic waving of white handkerchiefs with uplifted hands. The epithet “Lamb” relates to the condescension and Atonement of Jesus Christ.
The Hosanna Shout memorializes the pre-earthly Council in Heaven, as “when … all the sons of God shouted for joy” (Job 38:7). It also recalls the hosannas and the waving of palm branches accorded the Messiah as he entered Jerusalem. And hosannas welcomed him as he appeared to the Nephites. President Lorenzo Snow taught that this shout will herald the Messiah when he comes in the glory of the Father.
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
