Hava Nagila!
(Come Let Us Be Glad!)

This page contains a translation into English of the lyrics to the popular Israeli song "Hava Nagilah", which is widely used as a folk dance at Jewish weddings and other joyous occasions. The folk dance that people do to this uses the same steps as the Greek folk dance known as hasaposerviko. Also included is a transliteration of the Hebrew lyrics into the Roman alphabet so you can sing along if you like.

The song we are familiar in modern times is based on an earlier slow 19th century chant attributed to Sadigurer Chasidim, who lived in the region we know today as Ukraine. The modern version of the song was composed in 1915 by either Abraham Zevi Idelsohn or Moshe Nathanson. The first recording was by Abraham Zevi Idelsohn, in 1922.

Song lyrics are provided for educational purposes. If you like the song, please purchase either the album or a download from an authorized source.

Music: Either Abraham Zevi Idelsohn or Moshe Nathanson, based on a 19th century song attributed to Sadigurer Chasidim.

Listen to MP3 Clips of This Song

	Performed on harp by Rachel Van Voorhees
	From the CD Authentic Israeli Folk Songs & Dances on Flute, Guitar, & Drums

Lyrics

Where to Get Recordings of this Song

	Listen to Clip	Artist: Rachel Van Voorhees CD Title: Jewish Favorites
	Listen to Clip	CD Title: Authentic Israeli Folk Songs and Dances on Flute, Guitar, & Drums

About the Translator

Many thanks to Shoshana for providing this translation for this web site!!

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