This is a familiar but often misunderstood or misapplied word among Christians. The Gk. word for “worship” is “proskyneo”. It is a compound word with “pros” meaning “towards” and “kyon” meaning “to kiss”. Literally it is like a dog licking his master’s hand. Figuratively it is to fall on the knees and touch the ground with forehead as an expression of profound reverence.
The Heb. equivalent word is “saha” (translated “proskyneo” in LXX) which means “to bow down or even fall down” in deep respect. It says in Gen. 43:28 that Joseph’s brothers “bowed their heads and prostrated themselves.” before Joseph for he was the vizier, high ranking official and in Isa. 49:7 it says of the Messiah, “Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall prostrate themselves.”
From the Greek word, we get the English word “prostrate” which is to stretch oneself on the ground or lay flat before a monarch. In the olden days when a king or an emperor passes by, the people fall on their knees and kiss the ground in which he goes in highest homage. In modern days, people bow before the head of a state like the King or Queen or kiss their right hand.
In the same way, worship is to acknowledge God’s worthiness and to express our absolute surrender and joyful submission to Him. In Ps. 95:6, it says, “Oh come, let us worship (Heb. saha) and bow down; let us kneeel before the LORD, our Maker!” In fact, the English word “worship” comes from the anglo-saxon word used in the 14th century “worth-ship”. It is about the worthiness or value of an object and in the case of God as Christians we accept that He is worthy of honor, dignity and glory (Rev. 4:11).
So do not get distracted during worship. Do not be a distraction during worship. Do not look or move around, walk or talk or text or browse unnecessarily during worship. Do not eat or drink during worship. Do not be a spectator but be a participant in worship.
Also, remember worship is not just singing (1 Cor. 14:26). Worship includes preaching and listening, fasting and praying, communion and offering (Lk. 4:16-27, Acts 20:7, Lk. 2:37, Acts 20:7, 1 Cor. 16:2). It can be in an individual or corporate (congregation or group) setting.
So the next time when you hear or say this word “worship”, let it be with correct understanding so you can offer it with proper attitude! Remember – Worship is not about you. Worship is about God.
Great and amazing are your deeds,
O Lord God the Almighty!
Just and true are your ways,
O King of the nations!
Who will not fear, O Lord,
and glorify your name?
For you alone are holy.
All nations will come
and worship you,
or your righteous acts have been revealed.” (Rev. 15:3-4)
