Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks: Army Choir and Songs

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In the biblical context, the concept of armies marching in ranks is often associated with order, discipline, and divine purpose. The Israelites, as God's chosen people, were frequently depicted as an organized and disciplined force, especially during their wilderness journey and subsequent conquests in the Promised Land. The notion of marching in ranks underscores the importance of unity and obedience to God's commands.

Order and Discipline in Marching

The Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land was marked by a divinely ordained structure. In Numbers 2, God provides specific instructions on how the tribes of Israel were to camp and march. Each tribe had its designated position, and the Levites were tasked with carrying the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's presence among them. This orderliness was crucial for maintaining unity and ensuring that the Israelites moved as one body under God's guidance.

Army Choir and Songs

Music and singing played a significant role in the life of the Israelite army. Songs were not only a means of worship but also a way to inspire and unify the troops. One of the most notable examples is the Song of Moses and Miriam in Exodus 15, sung after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. This song celebrated God's deliverance and served as a powerful reminder of His might and faithfulness.

In 2 Chronicles 20, we see another example of the use of music in military context. King Jehoshaphat appointed singers to go before the army, singing praises to the Lord. As they sang, God set ambushes against their enemies, leading to a miraculous victory. This event highlights the belief that worship and praise can be powerful weapons in spiritual and physical battles.

Biblical References

The Bible contains numerous references to the organized nature of Israel's armies and the role of music in their campaigns. In Judges 7, Gideon's army is described as being divided into companies, each with trumpets and jars, which they used to create confusion among the Midianites. This strategic use of sound demonstrates the importance of coordination and the psychological impact of music and noise in warfare.

Psalm 68:25 provides insight into the procession of God's people: "The singers lead the way, the musicians follow after, among the maidens playing tambourines." This verse illustrates the integral role of music in the life of the community, including its military endeavors.

Spiritual Significance

The marching of armies in ranks and the use of choirs and songs in battle reflect deeper spiritual truths. They symbolize the order and harmony that God desires among His people. Just as the Israelites were called to march in unity, Christians are called to live in harmony, following the lead of Christ, who is the head of the Church.

Moreover, the use of music in battle serves as a reminder of the power of worship. It is a declaration of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and a testament to the belief that victory ultimately comes from Him. As seen in the biblical narratives, when God's people align themselves with His will and lift their voices in praise, they can expect divine intervention and triumph over their adversaries.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 20:21,22
And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers to the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endures for ever.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Missionary Hymns.
... Words and music together, the piece ranks with the ... Like a mighty army Moves the Church
of God ... Beneath the glowing arch The ransomed armies march, We follow on ...
/.../brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/chapter iv missionary hymns.htm

Some Hymns of Great Witnesses.
... Henry Hedge, DD, born in Cambridge, March 1805, a ... morning, with the Bohemian and
Austrian armies of Emperor ... he was kept too busy to enter the singers' ranks. ...
/.../brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/chapter ii some hymns of.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... hand when the fear alone of the Assyrian armies would no ... delay: "Go, do not hesitate,
for we march with thee ... were required to fill the vacancies in the ranks. ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm