What instruments were used in 2 Samuel 6:5 to praise the Lord? Setting the Scene David is bringing the ark from the house of Abinadab toward Jerusalem. The entire procession erupts in joyful, God-centered music. The Instruments Named in 2 Samuel 6:5 “David and all the house of Israel were celebrating before the LORD with all kinds of cypress wood instruments, harps, lyres, tambourines, sistrums, and cymbals.” • All kinds of cypress-wood instruments • Harps • Lyres • Tambourines • Sistrums • Cymbals Brief Notes on Each Instrument • Cypress-wood instruments – probably flutes or other crafted woodwinds/strings; the phrase covers a variety of hand-made pieces. • Harps – larger, multi-stringed instruments producing rich melodic lines (cf. Psalm 33:2). • Lyres – smaller, portable stringed instruments, often used by singers (cf. 1 Samuel 16:23). • Tambourines – frame drums with jingles, linked with victory songs since Miriam’s day (Exodus 15:20). • Sistrums – metal rattles that gave a clear, rhythmic shake; similar to modern shakers. • Cymbals – paired metal discs struck together for accent and climax (Psalm 150:5). Worship Then and Now The diversity—strings, percussion, woodwinds—shows that God welcomes a full spectrum of sounds when hearts are devoted to Him. Musical variety is not novelty; it is obedience and gratitude expressed in every skill God gives (Colossians 3:16). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Chron 13:8 – parallel account listing the same instruments. • Psalm 150 – commands praise with trumpet, harp, lyre, tambourine, strings, flute, cymbals. • Psalm 98:4-6 – “make a joyful noise… with harps and the sound of singing… with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn.” Personal Takeaway David’s example encourages believers to employ every God-given talent and tool to exalt the Lord. Instruments become holy when used for His glory, and corporate praise gains depth and beauty when a variety of sounds blend in unified celebration of His presence. |
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