Hallowed Mean in the Bible: Biblical Significance (2026)

In the Bible, hallowed means made holy, honored as sacred, or treated with deep reverence, especially in reference to God’s name, presence, or things set apart for Him.

Hallowed is one of those powerful biblical words that feels deeply spiritual, even if you have heard it many times without stopping to think about its meaning. From The Lord’s Prayer to hymns and sermons, the word carries a sense of awe, reverence, and holiness that sets it apart from everyday language.

But what does hallowed actually mean in the Bible? Why is it used to describe God’s name, places, and moments? And how is it different from words like holy or sacred?

This in depth guide explores the biblical meaning of hallowed, its origin, how it is used in Scripture, and how believers understand and apply it today. Whether you are studying the Bible, improving your English, or simply curious about biblical language, this article will give you clear answers in a friendly, easy to follow way.

In simple terms, to hallow something is to recognize it as holy and worthy of respect.

Understanding the Word “Hallowed” in Simple Terms

The word hallowed may sound formal or old fashioned, but its meaning is very meaningful and practical.

When the Bible says something is hallowed, it means:

• It is set apart for God
• It is treated with honor and respect
• It is not ordinary or casual
• It deserves reverence rather than familiarity

This is why the word is most often used when speaking about God Himself or things closely connected to Him.

Origin of the Word “Hallowed”

To fully understand hallowed, it helps to look at where the word comes from.

Linguistic Roots

The English word hallowed comes from:

• Old English: halgian meaning to make holy
• Germanic root: heil meaning whole or sacred
• Related to the word holy

In the original biblical languages:

• Hebrew word: qadash meaning to set apart or consecrate
• Greek word: hagiazo meaning to sanctify or make holy

So when English Bibles use the word hallowed, they are translating the idea of something being set apart exclusively for God.

Where Is “Hallowed” Used in the Bible?

The most famous biblical use of hallowed appears in the New Testament.

Hallowed in the Lord’s Prayer

“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.”
Matthew 6:9

This line does not mean that God’s name becomes holy only when we say it. Instead, it is a declaration and a request.

It means:

• God’s name is already holy
• We are acknowledging its holiness
• We are asking that God’s name be honored everywhere

In this context, hallowed expresses worship, submission, and reverence.

What Does “Hallowed Be Thy Name” Really Mean?

This phrase is often memorized but rarely explained clearly.

When Jesus teaches us to pray “hallowed be thy name,” He is teaching believers to:

• Respect God’s identity and character
• Avoid using God’s name casually or disrespectfully
• Live in a way that honors God publicly and privately

It is not just about words. It is about attitude, behavior, and heart posture.

Hallowed vs Holy: Are They the Same?

These two words are closely related but not identical.

Key Difference Explained

Holy describes what something is.
Hallowed describes how something is treated or recognized.

For example:

• God is holy by nature
• God’s name is hallowed by believers

One is a state of being. The other is an act of reverence.

Comparison Table: Hallowed vs Related Biblical Terms

Term	Meaning	Biblical Usage	Key Difference
Hallowed	Honored as holy	God’s name, sacred moments	Focuses on reverence
Holy	Pure and set apart	God’s nature	Describes essence
Sacred	Dedicated to God	Objects or places	Emphasizes devotion
Sanctified	Made holy	People or actions	Highlights transformation
Consecrated	Officially dedicated	Priests, altars	Often ceremonial

Is “Hallowed” Used Only for God?

Mostly, yes, but not exclusively.

In biblical and Christian tradition, hallowed can refer to:

• God’s name
• Sacred places like holy ground
• Sacred times such as holy days
• The memory of faithful believers

For example, phrases like hallowed ground refer to places associated with God’s presence or spiritual significance.

Real World Usage of “Hallowed” Today

Outside the Bible, the word hallowed is still used, though less often.

Common modern uses include:

• Hallowed ground meaning a place of honor or deep respect
• Hallowed traditions meaning respected customs
• Hallowed memory meaning honored remembrance

Even today, the word keeps its sense of reverence and seriousness.

Examples of “Hallowed” with Tone and Context

Friendly or Respectful Tone

• “This church has been a hallowed place for generations.”
• “We walked quietly, knowing it was hallowed ground.”

Neutral or Formal Tone

• “The ceremony honored the hallowed traditions of the community.”
• “His name remains hallowed in theological history.”

Serious or Solemn Tone

• “They stood in silence on hallowed ground.”
• “Her sacrifice made that moment hallowed forever.”

Negative or dismissive usage is rare, because the word itself carries respect. Using it sarcastically often sounds unnatural or offensive.

Alternate Meanings of “Hallowed”

While the biblical meaning is the most common, hallowed can sometimes mean:

• Deeply respected by tradition
• Treated as untouchable or unquestionable

For example:

• “The hallowed rules of the institution were never challenged.”

Even here, the sense of reverence remains.

Polite or Professional Alternatives to “Hallowed”

In writing or conversation, you may want similar words that fit different tones.

Formal or Professional Alternatives

• Revered
• Honored
• Sanctified
• Consecrated

Neutral or Modern Alternatives

• Respected
• Highly valued
• Deeply meaningful

Biblical or Religious Alternatives

• Holy
• Set apart
• Sacred

Each option carries a slightly different tone, so choose based on context.

Why “Hallowed” Matters in Biblical Teaching

The concept of hallowed reminds believers that not everything should be treated casually.

In the Bible, hallowing God’s name teaches:

• Respect in speech
• Integrity in behavior
• Awareness of God’s holiness
• Humility in worship

It encourages believers to reflect God’s holiness in everyday life.

Common Misunderstandings About “Hallowed”

Many people misunderstand the word because of its old style language.

Common Confusions

• Thinking it means outdated or obsolete
• Assuming it only applies to physical places
• Believing it means making God holy

In truth, hallowed is about recognizing holiness, not creating it.

FAQs:

1. What does hallowed mean in simple terms?

It means honored as holy or treated with deep respect, especially toward God.

2. Why does the Bible say “hallowed be thy name”?

It is a prayer asking that God’s name be respected, honored, and recognized as holy.

3. Is hallowed the same as holy?

No. Holy describes God’s nature. Hallowed describes how we treat or honor something holy.

4. Is the word hallowed still used today?

Yes, though mostly in religious, formal, or respectful contexts.

5. What is hallowed ground in the Bible?

It refers to places made sacred by God’s presence, such as when Moses stood before the burning bush.

6. Can people be hallowed?

People are not hallowed in themselves, but their lives or memories may be honored as sacred.

7. Is hallowed only a Christian word?

No, but it is most commonly used in Christian and biblical contexts.

8. How can believers hallow God’s name today?

By speaking respectfully, living faithfully, and honoring God through actions, not just words.

Conclusion:

In the Bible, hallowed is more than a poetic word. It expresses reverence, honor, and recognition of God’s holiness. When believers say “hallowed be thy name,” they are not just repeating a phrase. They are committing to treat God with respect in thought, speech, and action.

Understanding this word deepens prayer, enriches Bible study, and helps modern readers connect more clearly with ancient Scripture. Whether you encounter it in prayer, teaching, or writing, hallowed remains a powerful reminder that some things are meant to be treated as sacred.