The term "dulcimer" appears in the context of the musical instruments mentioned in the Book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 3:5, 10, and 15. In these passages, the dulcimer is listed among the instruments used in the worship of the golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar. The Berean Standard Bible translates this term as "bagpipe" in the main text, with "dulcimer" noted in the margin as an alternative translation.

Biblical Context:

In Daniel 3, King Nebuchadnezzar commands all peoples, nations, and languages to fall down and worship the golden image he has erected whenever they hear the sound of various musical instruments. The list of instruments includes the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, and pipes, with the dulcimer (or bagpipe) being one of the instruments mentioned. The specific verses are as follows:

- Daniel 3:5 : "As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the golden statue that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up."

- Daniel 3:10 : "You, O king, have issued a decree that everyone who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and all kinds of music must fall down and worship the golden statue."

- Daniel 3:15 : "Now, if you are ready, as soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the statue I have made."

Historical and Cultural Background:

The dulcimer, as referenced in the Book of Daniel, is believed to be a type of ancient stringed instrument, possibly similar to the modern hammered dulcimer. However, the translation as "bagpipe" suggests a wind instrument, which aligns with the variety of instruments used in the Babylonian court. The exact nature of the instrument is debated among scholars, as the original Aramaic term "sumponyah" could refer to a range of musical devices.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, music played a significant role in religious and royal ceremonies. The use of multiple instruments in Daniel 3 underscores the grandeur and authority of Nebuchadnezzar's decree, as well as the cultural diversity of his empire, which included various musical traditions.

Theological Significance:

The mention of the dulcimer (or bagpipe) in Daniel 3 highlights the conflict between the worship of God and the idolatrous practices of the Babylonian empire. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to bow down to the golden image, despite the musical summons, serves as a powerful testament to their faith and commitment to the God of Israel. Their story is a reminder of the call to remain steadfast in faith, even in the face of external pressures and cultural demands.

In summary, the dulcimer in the Book of Daniel represents more than just a musical instrument; it is part of a larger narrative about faith, obedience, and the challenge of living in a world that often demands compromise.Daniel 3:5,10,15
That at what time you hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music, you fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king has set up:
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