Hallel (pesukei dezimra) facts for kids

The Hallel of Pesukei Dezimra is a special group of six Psalms (songs from the Bible). These psalms are said as part of pesukei dezimra, which means 'verses of praise'. This part is like an introduction to the daily morning prayers.

This "Hallel" includes Ashrei (which is mostly Psalm 145) and then Psalms 146, 147, 148, 149, and 150. When people say "Hallel" by itself, they usually mean Psalms 113-118, which are only said on festivals. Because the Hallel of Pesukei Dezimra is said every day, it's also called the daily Hallel.

These psalms are chosen because they are all about praising God.

History of the Daily Hallel

Long ago, this group of psalms was the only part of Pesukei Dezimra. For a while, saying these psalms was seen as something people could choose to do, not something they had to do.

What Jewish Sages Said

The Talmud, a very important Jewish book, tells a story about a wise teacher named Rav Yosei. He said, "I wish my share in the world to come could be with those who say Hallel every day."

Another part of the Talmud then asks about this. It mentions that a different wise teacher had said, "Someone who says Hallel every day is like someone who curses God."

The Talmud then explains how both statements can be true. Rav Yosei was talking about the Hallel of Pesukei Dezimra, the one said daily. The other teacher was talking about the Hallel of Psalms 113–118, which is only said on holidays. It would be wrong to say the holiday Hallel every day because it would make it seem less special.