Definition and Meaning:

Shoshannim Eduth is a term found in the titles of certain Psalms within the Hebrew Bible. The phrase is often translated as "Lilies of Testimony" or "Lilies, a Testimony." It is a musical or liturgical term, likely indicating the tune or style to which the Psalm was to be sung. The term combines "Shoshannim," meaning "lilies," with "Eduth," meaning "testimony" or "witness."

Biblical References:

The term "Shoshannim Eduth" appears in the title of Psalm 60 and Psalm 80. These Psalms are attributed to Asaph and are part of the collection of Psalms that deal with themes of national distress, divine judgment, and the hope for restoration.

· Psalm 60: Title : "For the choirmaster. To the tune of 'The Lily of the Covenant.' A Miktam of David for instruction. When he fought Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah, and Joab returned and struck down twelve thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt."

· Psalm 80: Title : "For the choirmaster. To the tune of 'The Lilies of the Covenant.' A Psalm of Asaph."

Interpretation and Usage:

The use of "Shoshannim Eduth" in the titles of these Psalms suggests a specific musical setting or melody that was familiar to the ancient Israelite worship community. The term "lilies" may symbolize beauty, purity, or a particular musical quality, while "testimony" underscores the Psalms' role in bearing witness to God's covenantal relationship with Israel.

Theological Significance:

Theologically, the Psalms associated with "Shoshannim Eduth" reflect the deep reliance on God's faithfulness and the hope for His intervention in times of trouble. They serve as a reminder of God's past acts of deliverance and a call for His continued presence and salvation. The use of a specific tune or style for these Psalms may have been intended to evoke a particular emotional or spiritual response from the worshippers, reinforcing the message of trust and hope in God's promises.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the context of ancient Israelite worship, music played a crucial role in the liturgical and communal life of the people. The designation of specific tunes or musical instructions in the titles of Psalms indicates the structured and intentional nature of worship practices. The term "Shoshannim Eduth" reflects the rich musical heritage of the Israelites and their use of music as a means of expressing faith and devotion.

Conclusion:

While the exact musical characteristics of "Shoshannim Eduth" remain unknown, its presence in the Psalms highlights the importance of music in the spiritual life of ancient Israel and the enduring power of these sacred songs to convey theological truths and communal identity.Shoshannim Eduth

SHOSHANNIM EDUTH

sho-shan'-im e'-duth.

See SONG; PSALMS.

7802. Shushan Eduth -- Shoshannim-Eduth, Shushan-eduth
Shushan Eduth or Shoshannim Eduth. 7801, 7802. Shushan Eduth or Shoshannim
Eduth. 7803 . Shoshannim-Eduth, Shushan-eduth. Transliteration ...
/hebrew/7802.htm - 6k

Psalm 80
... Psalm 80. To the chief musician upon Shoshannim, Eduth, A Psalm of Asaph.
8,6,8,6. ^1Hear, Isr'el's Shepherd! like a flock. thou that dost Joseph guide; ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/anonymous/scottish psalter and paraphrases/psalm 80.htm

The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles).
... or a melody used in treading the wine-press; Shoshannim, lilies (Psa.45, 69);
Shushan-eduth, lily of the testimony (Psa.60); Shoshannim-eduth, lilies of the ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxi the poetical books.htm

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