In recent times, there has been arguments and controversies on how a Christian ought to dance
or what dance is acceptable to the Lord. So, let’s talk about the dance.
Dance involves moving the body rhythmically, often in a choreographed way and usually to
music. Dance is very expressive and it expresses emotions, releases energy and tension, helps
to connect with others, entertains, keeps the blood flowing and is highly spiritual. The Bible
tells us to praise God with the Dance.
Dance is mentioned throughout the Old Testament as a means of worship to God. “Praise Him with the timbrel and dance” (Psalm 150:4). Psalm 149:3 says, “They shall praise Him with dancing.” David danced with all his might before the Lord wearing a linen ephod (Psalm 149:3). Miriam the prophetess, Moses and Aaron’s sister, also one of the leaders of the Hebrews at the time, led the women in a victory dance with their tambourines (Exodus 15:20).
Dance is physical, spiritual and soulish. An effective dance involves the tripartite nature. Dance was incorporated to the worship of deities in various parts of the world especially in the Far East, Middle East, Africa, and Greco-Roman world. The Egyptians did their belly dance to ra, their sun god, the Greeks danced at the Temple of Diana, the Indians danced to their Hindu gods, the Chinese danced the Dragon dance, the Romans danced to Bacchus, the Canaanites danced to Ashtoreth, the Africans danced to Sango and other African deities, the Hispanics danced to the Mayan gods, while the Native American Indians danced to ancestors, the dead, and the elements.
The progenitor of the Jewish race was a Canaanite from the region of Mesopotamia, a people who worshipped idols and deities other than Yahweh the Living God. Dance was a very significant part of worship and celebration in the Jewish culture. They had the Hora dance, the Mayim Mayim (water dance) and several others. During the Simchat Torah, held at the last day of Sukkot, the Rabbi would dance with the Torah in his hands wrapped with the Tallit and pointed it to the sky while the congregation danced around him in circles clapping and raising their hands.
Since the New Testament did not make mention of dancing as found in the Old Testament, it is possible to conclude that there probably was no dancing in the Early Church. However, it is important to note that the early church was Jewish in origin and would have incorporated dancing in their worship especially during the High Holy Days and festive period.
Dancing has also been proven to be the best form of exercise to combat depression. Effective dancing involves the whole person – the body, spirit, and soul. A dancing church is a happy church. Dancing helps to release mental and emotional tension. The atmosphere of worship and high praises with dance is the best treatment for depression and anxiety. “In the presence of God there is fullness of Joy and at His right hand there are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).
Characteristic of the Christian Dance
- Dancing should be God-honoring
- Dancing is physical, physical energy is exerted
- Dancing is soulish
- Dancing is cognitive
- Dancing is spiritual
- Dancing should be celebratory
- Dancing is worship
- Dancing should be joyful
- Dancing should not be self-exalting and self-focused
- Dancing should be sacrificial
The right question to ask is this? Who is your dance dedicated to? And what is on the throne of your heart while dancing? If Christ is on the throne of your heart while dancing and your goal is to honor Him in your dance, then your dance is holy. If self is on the throne of your heart while you are dancing, then your dance is towards self. If lust is on the throne of your heart while dancing then your dance is sensual. If man and how to please man is on the throne of your heart while dancing then your dance is prideful.
Dancing is a vital part of our worship and wellbeing. If God can rejoice and dance over me (Zeph. 3:17), then I will dance for Him unashamedly and unhindered without holding back because my dance is my covenant of worship unto the Lord and my celebration of victory.
I will dance, shout, jump and sing to my Lord for He has given me victory. Psalm 149:1-9.
May you never stop dancing for joy in Jesus’ name. Amen!