The phrase “hallowed be thy name” (from Matthew 6:9) is one of the most theologically rich—and often misunderstood—lines in the Lord’s Prayer. At first glance it sounds like we’re making God’s name holy, but that’s not what Jesus meant.
N.T. Wright emphasizes that it’s not a statement (“your name is holy”). Instead, it’s a petition, “May your name be regarded as holy.”
To hallow God’s name means aligning how we think, speak, and live with who God truly is.
As Timothy Keller puts it, we are asking God to make His holiness visible and recognized in the world. It’s a prayer for global recognition of God’s glory.
We should pray, “God, make your holiness known everywhere—through your people, your work, and your kingdom.” This helps us prioritize God over ourselves and our needs.
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