ACC ~ Mark 11 v9

WHY HOSANNA?

JEROME: The boys in the Gospel raised aloft their branches as the Savior entered Jerusalem. They kept on crying: “Hosanna.” … They borrowed these versicles from Psalm 117. [1] Hosanna,moreover, is the Hebrew for “O Lord, grant salvation!” HOMILIES 94. [2]

[1] Ps 118:25-26 (117:25 LXX).

[2] Cetedoc 0604, 65; FC 57:253.

THE MEANING OF THE EXCLAMATION

AUGUSTINE: “Hosanna,” however, is a word of supplicating, as some say who know the Hebrew language, more declaring a feeling than signifying something. Just as in the Latin language there are words which we call interjections, as when in sorrow we say, Heu! Or when we are de-lighted, we say, Vah! Or when we are amazed, we say, “Oh, what a great thing!” For then oh signifies nothing except the feeling of one who is amazed. TRACTATE ON JOHN 51.2. [1]

[1] Cetedoc 0278, 51.2.9; NPNF 1 7:283; cf. FC 88:272.