The cymbal of brass, often referred to as a bronze cymbal, is a percussion instrument mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of worship and celebration. The use of cymbals in biblical times was integral to the musical expressions of joy, praise, and festivity, particularly in the worship practices of ancient Israel.

Biblical References and Usage

Cymbals are mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament. They were part of the musical ensemble used in temple worship and other significant religious ceremonies. In 1 Chronicles 15:16, King David instructs the leaders of the Levites to appoint musicians to play various instruments, including cymbals, to accompany the Ark of the Covenant's procession to Jerusalem: "David also told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to lift up their voices with joy, accompanied by musical instruments—harps, lyres, and cymbals."

The cymbals were also used in the dedication of Solomon's Temple, as described in 2 Chronicles 5:13: "The trumpeters and singers joined together to praise and thank the LORD with one voice. They lifted up their voices, accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and musical instruments, in praise to the LORD: 'For He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.'"

Construction and Symbolism

Cymbals in biblical times were typically made of bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, known for its durability and resonant sound. The choice of bronze for cymbals was likely due to its ability to produce a clear, ringing tone that could be heard over other instruments and voices, making it ideal for large gatherings and outdoor ceremonies.

Symbolically, cymbals represent the exuberant and unrestrained praise of God. Their loud and resounding sound is often associated with the call to worship and the proclamation of God's glory. In Psalm 150:5, the psalmist exhorts, "Praise Him with clashing cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals."

Theological Significance

The use of cymbals in worship underscores the biblical theme of joy and celebration in the presence of God. The inclusion of such instruments in temple worship highlights the importance of music as a means of expressing the community's collective adoration and reverence for the Almighty. The cymbals' sound serves as a reminder of the vibrancy and vitality of worship that is pleasing to God.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul makes a metaphorical reference to cymbals in 1 Corinthians 13:1, where he emphasizes the supremacy of love over spiritual gifts: "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal." Here, the cymbal is used to illustrate the emptiness of actions devoid of love, contrasting the meaningful worship symbolized by cymbals in the Old Testament.

Conclusion

The cymbal of brass holds a significant place in the biblical narrative as an instrument of worship and celebration. Its use in ancient Israelite worship practices reflects the broader biblical theme of music as a powerful expression of faith and devotion. Through its resounding sound, the cymbal calls believers to a vibrant and heartfelt worship of God, reminding them of the joy and reverence due to the Creator.1 Chronicles 15:19,28
So the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were appointed to sound with cymbals of brass;
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1 Corinthians 13:1
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
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