Topical Bible: Music: Instruments of Often Expensively Ornamented

◄ Music: Instruments of Often Expensively Ornamented ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, music plays a significant role in worship, celebration, and various aspects of daily life. The use of musical instruments is well-documented throughout the Scriptures, often highlighting their intricate craftsmanship and the value placed upon them. These instruments were not only functional but also served as symbols of beauty and devotion, frequently being expensively ornamented to reflect their importance in religious and cultural settings.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament provides numerous references to musical instruments, many of which were used in the worship of Yahweh. The construction and ornamentation of these instruments often involved skilled craftsmanship and the use of precious materials. For instance, in 1 Chronicles 23:5, it is noted that King David appointed 4,000 Levites to praise the Lord with the instruments he had made "for giving praise." This suggests that the instruments were specially crafted for worship, likely involving significant artistic and material investment.

The Book of Psalms, a central text for understanding biblical music, frequently mentions instruments such as the harp and lyre. Psalm 33:2 states, "Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to Him with ten strings." The harp and lyre were often associated with royal and sacred music, and their construction would have been a matter of great care and expense.

In the construction of the Temple, musical instruments were also given considerable attention. 2 Chronicles 5:12-13 describes the Levites playing cymbals, harps, and lyres, accompanied by 120 priests sounding trumpets, during the dedication of Solomon's Temple. The grandeur of this event underscores the importance of music in worship and the likely ornate nature of the instruments used.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not focus as extensively on musical instruments, their presence and use are implied in various passages. In Revelation 5:8 , the twenty-four elders are described as having "harps and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." The mention of harps in this heavenly vision suggests continuity with the Old Testament tradition of using beautifully crafted instruments in worship.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The ornamentation of musical instruments in biblical times was not merely for aesthetic purposes but also held cultural and religious significance. Instruments were often adorned with precious metals and stones, reflecting the wealth and devotion of the community. This practice can be seen as an expression of giving the best to God, a theme prevalent throughout the Scriptures.

Instruments such as the shofar, made from a ram's horn, while not typically ornamented, held significant religious importance. The shofar was used in various religious ceremonies and battles, as seen in Joshua 6:4-5, where the Israelites used it to bring down the walls of Jericho.

Conclusion

The biblical portrayal of musical instruments as often expensively ornamented highlights their integral role in worship and community life. These instruments were not only tools for making music but also symbols of devotion, beauty, and the divine presence in the lives of the faithful.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 28:13
You have been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of your tabrets and of your pipes was prepared in you in the day that you were created.
Torrey's Topical Textbook