Viol

The term "viol" is not directly mentioned in the Berean Standard Bible; however, it is often associated with stringed instruments referenced in the Scriptures. The viol is akin to the lyre and other ancient stringed instruments used in biblical times for worship, celebration, and personal expression. The viol, as understood in historical contexts, is a bowed string instrument that evolved in the medieval period, but its biblical counterpart would be more similar to the lyre or harp.

In the Bible, stringed instruments are frequently mentioned in the context of worship and praise. For example, Psalm 150:3-4 exhorts believers to "praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; praise Him with strings and flute." This passage highlights the importance of stringed instruments in the worship practices of ancient Israel.

Lyre

The lyre is one of the most frequently mentioned stringed instruments in the Bible. It is a small, hand-held instrument with strings that are plucked, and it was commonly used in both sacred and secular music. The lyre is often associated with King David, who was known for his musical skill and his role in composing many of the Psalms. In 1 Samuel 16:23 , it is recorded that "whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play, and relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him." This passage illustrates the lyre's role in soothing and spiritual contexts.

The lyre was also used in temple worship. In 1 Chronicles 15:16 , David instructs the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to "raise their voices with joy, accompanied by musical instruments—harps, lyres, and cymbals." This indicates the lyre's integral role in the organized worship of God, contributing to the joyful and reverent atmosphere of the temple.

In the prophetic literature, the lyre is sometimes mentioned in contexts of judgment or lamentation, highlighting its cultural significance. Isaiah 5:12 warns of those who "have harps and lyres at their banquets, tambourines and flutes and wine, but they disregard the deeds of the LORD and fail to see the work of His hands." Here, the lyre is part of a scene of revelry that stands in contrast to the spiritual awareness and obedience God desires.

Overall, the lyre and similar stringed instruments played a vital role in the musical and spiritual life of ancient Israel. They were used in worship, personal devotion, and even in royal courts, reflecting the deep connection between music and the divine in biblical tradition.Isaiah 5:12
And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the LORD, neither consider the operation of his hands.
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Isaiah 14:11
Your pomp is brought down to the grave, and the noise of your viols: the worm is spread under you, and the worms cover you.
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Amos 5:23
Take you away from me the noise of your songs; for I will not hear the melody of your viols.
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Amos 6:5
That chant to the sound of the viol, and invent to themselves instruments of music, like David;
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