Jump to: Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Nehiloth is a term found in the superscription of Psalm 5 in the Hebrew Bible. The Berean Standard Bible translates the superscription as: "For the choirmaster. With flutes. A Psalm of David." The term "Nehiloth" is traditionally understood to refer to a type of musical instrument, possibly wind instruments like flutes, as suggested by the BSB translation. This aligns with the Hebrew root "chalil," which means "to bore" or "to perforate," often associated with wind instruments.Biblical Context Psalm 5 is a prayer of David, seeking God's guidance and protection against his enemies. The psalm is characterized by its plea for divine intervention and justice, as well as a declaration of trust in God's righteousness. The mention of Nehiloth in the superscription suggests that this psalm was intended to be accompanied by a specific musical arrangement, enhancing its liturgical and worshipful setting. Musical Significance The use of Nehiloth indicates the importance of music in ancient Hebrew worship. Music played a vital role in the liturgical practices of the Israelites, serving as a means to express devotion, lament, and praise. The specific mention of musical terms in the psalms underscores the integration of music and worship in the life of the Israelite community. Interpretative Considerations The exact nature of Nehiloth remains somewhat ambiguous due to the limited references in the biblical text. However, its inclusion in the superscription of Psalm 5 highlights the diversity of musical expressions in the Psalter. Scholars and theologians have long debated the precise meaning and application of such terms, but the consensus leans towards understanding Nehiloth as indicative of a musical style or instrument. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the mention of Nehiloth in the context of a psalm attributed to David emphasizes the role of music as a divine gift used to glorify God. It reflects the biblical theme of worship as a holistic experience, engaging both the heart and the senses. The use of musical instruments in worship is seen as a way to enhance the spiritual atmosphere, drawing the worshiper closer to God. Historical and Cultural Context In the broader historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, music was an integral part of both religious and social life. Instruments like the flute were common in various ceremonies and celebrations. The reference to Nehiloth in the Psalms suggests that such instruments were not only used in secular settings but were also sanctified for use in the worship of Yahweh. Conclusion While the precise identification of Nehiloth remains uncertain, its presence in the Psalms serves as a testament to the rich musical heritage of ancient Israel and its enduring influence on Judeo-Christian worship practices. Smith's Bible Dictionary NehilothThe title of (Psalms 5:1) in the Authorized Version is rendered "To the chief musician upon Nehiloth ." It is most likely that nehiloth is the general term for perforated wind-instruments of all kinds, as neginoth denotes all manner of stringed instruments. Easton's Bible Dictionary Only in the title of Psalm 5. It is probably derived from a root meaning "to bore," "perforate," and hence denotes perforated wind instruments of all kinds. The psalm may be thus regarded as addressed to the conductor of the temple choir which played on flutes and such-like instruments. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n. pl.) A term supposed to mean, perforated wind instruments of music, as pipes or flutes.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia NEHILOTHne-hil'-oth, ne'-hi-loth (Psalm 5, title). See MUSIC. Strong's Hebrew 5155. nechilah -- perhaps flute (a musical instrument).... Transliteration: nechilah Phonetic Spelling: (nekh-ee-law') Short Definition: Nehiloth. ... Probably denominative from chaliyl; a flute -- (plural) Nehiloth. ... /hebrew/5155.htm - 6k Library Psalm 5 Index of Subjects. The Poetical Books. The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles). Thesaurus Nehiloth (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. NEHILOTH. ne-hil'-oth, ne'-hi-loth (Psalm 5, title). See MUSIC. Multi-Version Concordance Nehiloth (2 Occurrences). ... /n/nehiloth.htm - 7k Nehemias Nehum (1 Occurrence) Musician (112 Occurrences) Psalm (213 Occurrences) Resources Nehiloth: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Nehiloth (2 Occurrences)Psalms 4:8 Psalms 5:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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