What is Messianic Dance?

Messianic or Davidic dance has been a pillar of the Hebraic religious experience for centuries. Judaism has combined prayer with music, singing, beating of drums and/or dance. There is frequent reference in the Old Testament (Tenach) and the New Testament (Brit Chadasha) to dancing. Processions, ritual dances, dances of thanksgiving and warfare are just a few dances done by the Jewish people in the ancient times, the Middle Ages and today.

The purpose of Davidic dance is simple – to praise and worship. At the Harvest, we dance many of the traditional Israeli dances and have choreographed new Messianic dances to current praise and worship.

Like worship songs, dances fit with the spirit of worship – some are slow and reverential, and others are fast-paced and joyful. Whatever the theme, Davidic dance provides an opportunity for people in the community to come together to worship God. There is no emphasis on one dancer in particular, but we come together as a whole to offer praise to God and lead the people into worship along with the worship team. Dances are an integral part of the worship experience at the Harvest. In particular, at the feast days the dancers minister specially choreographed dances that emphasize the spiritual message of the festival.

How can I participate in Messianic Dance?

The Harvest dance ministry offers Congregational and Shabbat Circle Dances every Shabbat during service. Please join us on Shabbat to participate in Davidic dance during the corporate worship time (ages 4+), where together we offer praises to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! If you would like to join the circle dance on Shabbat, please join dancers behind the sanctuary at 10:20am to go over the steps for the circle, day of. In addition, the Harvest offers festival dances throughout the year.

Also, 14 classes have been released on YouTube in which you can learn foundational dance steps and beginner dance choreography. This is just the start of the classes being released from our virtual dance academy! Visit our YouTube channel to start learning messianic dance today!