The term "sackbut" appears in the context of the musical instruments mentioned in the Book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 3:5, 7, 10, and 15. The Berean Standard Bible translates this term as "lyre," which aligns with the understanding of the sackbut as a stringed instrument. The historical and linguistic background of the term provides insight into its use and significance in biblical times.

Biblical References:

In the Book of Daniel, the sackbut is listed among the instruments used in the worship of the golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar. The passages in Daniel 3 describe a decree that at the sound of various musical instruments, including the sackbut, all peoples were to fall down and worship the image. The BSB translates these verses 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 3:7: "Therefore, as soon as they heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, and all kinds of music, all the peoples, nations, and languages fell down and worshiped the golden statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had 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 Linguistic Context:

The term "sackbut" is derived from the Old French "saqueboute," which originally referred to a type of trombone. However, in the context of the Book of Daniel, the instrument is more accurately understood as a stringed instrument, likely similar to a lyre or harp. The Hebrew word translated as "sackbut" in some older English versions is "sabbeka," which is believed to refer to a stringed instrument used in ancient Babylonian music.

The lyre, as understood in the biblical context, was a common instrument in ancient Near Eastern cultures. It typically consisted of a wooden body with strings stretched over it, played by plucking or strumming. The lyre was used in both secular and sacred music, often accompanying singing or other instruments.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

The inclusion of the sackbut, or lyre, in the list of instruments used in the worship of Nebuchadnezzar's golden image highlights the cultural and religious practices of the time. Music played a significant role in worship and ceremonial events, serving as a means to unify participants and enhance the spiritual atmosphere.

In the broader biblical narrative, musical instruments like the lyre are frequently associated with worship and praise. King David, for example, is renowned for his skill with the harp, a similar stringed instrument, which he used to compose psalms and offer praise to God. The use of the lyre in the context of idolatrous worship in Daniel 3 contrasts with its use in the worship of the God of Israel, underscoring the tension between true and false worship.

The sackbut, as a stringed instrument, thus serves as a symbol of the cultural and religious dynamics present in the Book of Daniel, reflecting the broader theme of faithfulness to God amidst external pressures to conform to idolatrous practices.Daniel 3:5,7,10,15
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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