The dulcimer, a stringed musical instrument, is mentioned in the context of ancient musical practices within the Bible. The term "dulcimer" is often associated with the Aramaic word "sumponyah," which appears in the Book of Daniel. This instrument is part of the rich tapestry of music that played a significant role in biblical times, particularly in worship and royal ceremonies.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the dulcimer is found in the Book of Daniel, specifically in the account of King Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. In Daniel 3:5, the Berean Standard Bible states: "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." The term "dulcimer" is traditionally included in some translations, though the BSB uses "pipes" in this context. The instrument is part of an ensemble used to signal the worship of the statue, highlighting its role in ceremonial music.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The dulcimer, as understood in the biblical context, likely refers to a type of ancient stringed instrument. It is believed to have been similar to a zither or a harp, played by striking or plucking the strings. The use of such instruments was common in the ancient Near East, where music was integral to both religious and secular life.

Instruments like the dulcimer were often used in royal courts and religious ceremonies, serving as a means to enhance the grandeur and solemnity of the occasion. The inclusion of the dulcimer in the ensemble mentioned in Daniel underscores the importance of music in creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of musical instruments such as the dulcimer in the Bible reflects the broader biblical theme of music as a form of expression and worship. Music is frequently depicted as a means to glorify God, celebrate victories, and express lamentation. The use of instruments in worship is seen throughout the Psalms, where various instruments are called upon to praise the Lord.

While the dulcimer in Daniel is associated with the worship of an idol, it serves as a reminder of the power of music to influence human behavior and emotions. This account also highlights the tension between true worship of God and the idolatrous practices that were prevalent in the ancient world.

Conclusion:

The dulcimer, as referenced in the Book of Daniel, provides insight into the musical culture of the biblical era. Its role in the narrative of Nebuchadnezzar's golden image illustrates the use of music in both religious and political contexts. The instrument's inclusion in the biblical text underscores the enduring significance of music as a powerful tool for expression and worship throughout the history of God's people.Daniel 3:5
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:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Music (Christmas Day. )
... the Lord Jesus Christ, than psaltery, dulcimer, and all ... or the sounds of those cunning
instruments which man ... God, who creates all things; all music upon earth ...
/.../kingsley/the good news of god/sermon xvii music christmas day.htm

The Lord Coming to his Temple
... goodness, they set his message likewise to music; and this ... sound of cornet, flute,
harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of instruments (Daniel 3 ...
//christianbookshelf.org/newton/messiah vol 1/sermon iv the lord coming.htm

Three Names High on the Muster-Roll
... by the strains from those varied instruments of music ... Greece, and Babylon, when all
the music of the ... anybody, when the flute, harp, sackbut, dulcimer, and all ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/three names high on the.htm

An Exhortation to the People Respecting Fortitude and Patience...
... the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all ... the melody of every
kind of music," saith he ... our bodily members into instruments of righteousness ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily iv an exhortation to.htm

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