Music: Instruments of Organ
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Topical Encyclopedia
The term "organ" in the context of biblical music refers to a type of wind instrument, which is often associated with the Hebrew word "ugab." This instrument is considered one of the earliest forms of musical expression mentioned in the Scriptures. The organ, as understood in biblical times, differs significantly from the modern pipe organ found in churches today. It is more akin to a simple reed or pipe instrument, possibly similar to a primitive flute or panpipe.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 4:21 : "His brother’s name was Jubal; he was the father of all who play the harp and flute." The word "flute" here is translated from the Hebrew "ugab," which some scholars suggest could be an early form of the organ. Jubal is recognized as a pioneer in the development of musical instruments, indicating the organ's ancient origins.

2. Job 21:12 : "They sing to the tambourine and lyre and make merry to the sound of the flute." In this passage, the "flute" again translates from "ugab," suggesting its use in celebrations and possibly in worship settings. The context implies a joyful and communal use of music.

3. Psalm 150:4 : "Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; praise Him with the strings and flute." The psalmist calls for the use of various instruments, including the "flute" (ugab), in the worship of God, highlighting the organ's role in the liturgical and celebratory life of Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The organ, as referenced in the Bible, was likely a simple instrument made from reeds or pipes. It was portable and could be played solo or as part of an ensemble. The use of the organ in biblical times was not limited to religious ceremonies; it was also a part of social and festive occasions. The instrument's ability to produce melodious sounds made it suitable for both worship and entertainment.

Theological Significance:

In the biblical narrative, music, including that produced by instruments like the organ, is often associated with worship, prophecy, and celebration. The organ's inclusion in the Psalms and other scriptural references underscores the importance of music in expressing devotion and joy before God. It serves as a reminder of the creative gifts bestowed upon humanity and the role of music in enhancing spiritual experiences.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

From a theological perspective, the organ symbolizes the harmony and order of creation. Its use in worship reflects the biblical theme of praising God with all available resources and talents. The organ's sound, produced by breath passing through pipes, can also be seen as a metaphor for the breath of life and the Spirit of God moving through His people.

In summary, the organ, as mentioned in the Bible, represents an ancient and significant aspect of musical worship and cultural expression. Its presence in Scripture highlights the enduring role of music in the spiritual and communal life of God's people.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Genesis 4:21
And his brother's name was Jubal: he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 21:12
They take the tambourine and harp, and rejoice at the sound of the organ.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 150:4
Praise him with the tambourine and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

On Opening an Organ.
... surround, With them loud chorus raise, While instruments of loftiest ... our skill; We
bid the pealing organ wait To ... souls on high; And while the music round us ...
/.../adams/hymns for christian devotion/984 on opening an.htm

For the Opening of an Organ.
... James Montgomery. For the Opening of an Organ. The morning stars in concert sang,. ...
And earth and heaven with music rang,. ... Now, with all instruments in one,. ...
/.../montgomery/sacred poems and hymns/hymn cccii for the opening.htm

How to Conduct Ourselves at Feasts.
... mind, by the licentious and mischievous art of music. ... organ." Our body He calls an
organ, and its ... truly a pacific instrument; while other instruments, if you ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter iv how to conduct ourselves.htm

Psalm CL.
... But "organ" is a general name for all instruments of music, although usage has now
obtained that those are specially called organ which are inflated with ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cl.htm

Measures to Promote Revivals.
... By and by, in some congregations, various instruments were introduced for ... of aiding
the singers, and improving the music. ... church, that they had an organ in the ...
/.../finney/lectures on revivals of religion/lecture xiv measures to promote.htm

Spiritual Sacrifices
... God,' and then, 'your members as instruments of righteousness ... and entire, with no
maiming in hand or organ. ... spirit will harmonise and make one music of praise ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture ephesians peter/spiritual sacrifices.htm

The Memorable Hymn. "And when they had Sung an Hymn, they Went Out ...
... been made white and pure, bring forth your instruments of song ... My music must be sweet
and soft when I sing of Him ... Draw out the stops, and let the organ swell the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/till he come/the memorable hymn and when.htm

The Worship of the Church. The Religion of the Primitive ...
... lately drawn off from idols; but now, instead of instruments, we may ... in the psalmody:
then, the mute crowd listened to the music of the organ accompanied by ...
//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/chapter i the worship of.htm

The Wonderful Unity of the Bible Attests Its Divine Authorship
... degrees of musical culture visiting the organ of some ... orchestra, with an immense
variety of instruments playing their ... Himself who has written the music and put ...
/.../pink/the divine inspiration of the bible/chapter seven the wonderful unity.htm

Faith and Knowledge.
... by means of the senses, which are instruments designed to ... as absurd as to say, of
an organ concert: "Really I would prefer to see this." Music can not ...
/.../kuyper/the work of the holy spirit/xxxv faith and knowledge.htm

Resources
Should a Christian listen to secular music? | GotQuestions.org

When can music be considered 'Christian music'? | GotQuestions.org

Is Christian rock music appropriate? | GotQuestions.org

Music: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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Corded (37 Occurrences)

Door-keepers (34 Occurrences)

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Maschil (26 Occurrences)

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Makers (20 Occurrences)

Lyre (32 Occurrences)

Musicians (6 Occurrences)

Melody (55 Occurrences)

Instrument (45 Occurrences)

Michtam (12 Occurrences)

Flute (16 Occurrences)

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Playing (37 Occurrences)

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Strings (11 Occurrences)

Sambuca (4 Occurrences)

Singers (41 Occurrences)

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Play (61 Occurrences)

Sons (2429 Occurrences)

Sounding (99 Occurrences)

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Symphony (3 Occurrences)

Sounds (64 Occurrences)

Loudly (31 Occurrences)

Singing (65 Occurrences)

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Instruments (136 Occurrences)

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Obeisance (45 Occurrences)

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Korah (51 Occurrences)

Horns (104 Occurrences)

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Improvise (1 Occurrence)

Finger (35 Occurrences)

Resembled (18 Occurrences)

Roar (53 Occurrences)

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Endureth (63 Occurrences)

Endures (75 Occurrences)

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