The Hebrew word mahalal means praise, fame, or renown. It derives from the root halal (H1984, to praise, to shine), which is the same root found in the exclamation hallelu-Yah (praise the LORD). The word denotes the reputation or acclaim that results from praiseworthy actions or character.
While mahalal itself appears rarely, its root halal is one of the most important worship words in the Old Testament. The concept of praise as fame connects to God's purpose for His people — they are to be a people of praise, reflecting His glory to the nations. In Proverbs 27:21, the word appears in the context of testing character through praise, suggesting that how one handles fame and renown reveals true integrity. God Himself is ultimately the one worthy of all mahalal.