What Does “Lord of Hosts” Mean in the Bible?
Lord of Hosts means God rules the heavenly armies and all creation. Understand Isaiah 6, the Sanctus at Mass, and why this is not the Eucharistic host.
Related: What Does “Lord of Hosts” Mean in the Bible? · Lord Sabaoth · Lord of host · Sanctus meaning · heavenly armies
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Lord of Hosts?
The Lord of Hosts is God, not a different deity or an individual angel. The biblical title expresses his authority over heavenly armies and all creation.
What does Sabaoth mean?
Sabaoth represents the Hebrew word for hosts or armies. It is not the same word as Sabbath, the day of rest.
Does Lord of Hosts refer to Communion wafers?
No. Hosts here means armies or multitudes. The Eucharistic term host comes through Latin hostia, meaning sacrificial victim.
Why do Catholics say Lord God of hosts at Mass?
The Sanctus draws on the heavenly worship in Isaiah 6:3 and the welcome of Jesus in Matthew 21:9. Catholics join the praise of God offered by the angels.