The term is often used in the context of religious worship, where individuals or communities offer praise to a higher power. However, "alabanza" can also extend beyond religious connotations and be employed in various cultural, artistic, or personal contexts to convey a sense of acclaim or admiration.

One notable instance where the term "alabanza" has gained prominence is in the title of the poem "Alabanza" by the American poet Martin Espada. This poem, written in the aftermath of the 1996 bombing of the World Trade Center in New York City, serves as a poignant and multifaceted exploration of grief, resilience, and remembrance. Espada's use of the term "what is alabanza" in the title adds a layer of complexity to the poem, as it introduces the concept of praise within the context of tragedy.

In Espada's "Alabanza," the act of praise takes on a unique significance. The poem is not a traditional elegy mourning the loss of lives; rather, it transforms into a celebration of the strength and resilience of the Latino community affected by the tragedy. The poem becomes a hymn of praise for the unsung heroes, particularly the workers of Local 100, the union representing restaurant workers, many of whom perished in the attack. The muralist Manny Vega, commissioned to create a mural in honor of the victims, becomes a central figure in the act of alabanza as he memorializes and celebrates the lives lost.

The choice of "what is alabanza" in the title suggests a deliberate departure from the conventional narratives of sorrow and grief. Espada's use of praise introduces a redemptive quality to the poem, emphasizing the power of collective remembrance and the resilience of a community in the face of tragedy. The act of alabanza becomes a form of resistance against erasure, a commitment to honoring the lives and contributions of those who perished.

Beyond the specific context of Espada's poem, "alabanza" can be found in various cultural and artistic expressions. In Spanish-speaking cultures, the term is frequently used in religious hymns, songs, and rituals where individuals express gratitude and reverence to a divine entity. In the realm of art and literature, "alabanza" may manifest as an overarching theme that celebrates the beauty of life, human achievement, or the natural world.

In essence, "what is alabanza" embodies the universal human inclination to express admiration, gratitude, and celebration. It reflects a recognition of the positive aspects of life, even in the face of adversity. Whether through religious devotion, artistic expression, or communal remembrance, the concept of "alabanza" serves as a reminder that, amid the complexities of existence, there is a profound and enduring capacity for praise and celebration.