Praise
Dance As worshipDance as Worship
Praise dancing is now being accepted by the Christian community as a means of worshiping the Lord. In ancient times dancing had been an integral part of worship. Exodus 15:20 records how Miriam and others danced for joy to celebrate their deliverance by the mighty Hand of God. The Hebrew Scriptures mentions numerous times when dancing was used to express one’s thankfulness to the Lord. Besides the term ‘dance’ other Hebrew words usually translated as ‘rejoice’, ‘joyful’ and even ‘tremble’ convey meanings to spin or circle around with a vigorous and enthusiastic expression of joy.
As Christianity spread through Europe, this Jewish expression continued throughout the early church. However, after Constantine proclaimed Christianity the official religion of the state, the influx of pagan rituals adversely affected dance as a form of worship. The masses included these forms at weddings, funerals and various celebrations outside church auspices. The liturgical dances continued but became tarnished by the congregants resulting in a strain between church leaders and laity. Nevertheless, dance as an expression continued for centuries even though leaders like Augustine and John Chrysostom voiced opposition.
Christian or biblical dancing continued throughout the Middle Ages regardless of the conflict. Interestingly, the demise of dance came about following the Reformation during the time of Luther and others. The mental aspects of Biblical study took prominence and bodily expression was perceived as too worldly. Instead of dance being purged of its unseemliness, it was relegated to history - for a time.
During the twentieth century, this Hebrew tradition once again found its proper place in praise and worship. Interestingly, this phenomenon of biblical worship has occurred when the Lord restored His nation Israel. Simultaneously, Messianic Jewish believers came into existence as a distinct part of the Church - body of Messiah. Praise and worship dance or sometimes called biblical dance is as diverse as the Church itself. Styles include modern, ballet, lyrical, hip hop; as well as prophetic and intercessory. Dances range from the spontaneity of one person to choreographed dances with numerous participants. Oftentimes streamers, flags and banners, and tambourines are utilized to further express one’s praise.
The ethnic influence is seen in various folk dances from African to Israeli. There are many different terms used to describe this type of dancing: praise dancing, liturgical dance, biblical dance, worship dance, etc. In the Messianic Jewish community the term ‘Davidic dance’ is employed. The dances may be from Jewish tradition or newly choreographed and usually consist of combinations of various steps from Jewish folk dances choreographed by Messianic Jewish believers..
Clearly, the reappearance of praise and worship dance into religious and other celebratory occasions such as weddings is one of the signs of the Lord restoring His body.
