Saturday, July 19, 2003

The worship band had a discussion last week about the difference between “praise” songs and “worship” songs and our use of each. We tend to use those words interchangeably all the time, and I think there are differences in meaning, intent. But knowing how to articulate it was a challenge, and putting it in the context of songs was as well.

All week I meant to look up the definitions of each word. Here they are:

praise
n.
1.  Expression of approval, commendation, or admiration.
2.  The extolling or exaltation of a deity, ruler, or hero.
Archaic. A reason for praise; merit.

tr.v. praised, prais·ing, prais·es
1.  To express warm approbation of, commendation for, or admiration for.
2.  To extol or exalt; worship.

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wor·ship
n.

1.  The reverent love and devotion accorded a deity, an idol, or a sacred object.
2.  The ceremonies, prayers, or other religious forms by which this love is expressed.
3.  Ardent devotion; adoration.

v. wor·shiped, or wor·shipped wor·ship·ing, or wor·ship·ping wor·ships or wor·ships
v. tr.
1.  To honor and love as a deity.
2.  To regard with ardent or adoring esteem or devotion. 

[via dictionary.com]

How do the differences translate to some of the music churches use?
How do we educate folks to the differences?
Does it matter?

Discuss. (Please!)