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 4:21And 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 Psalm 150:4 Library On Opening an Organ. For the Opening of an Organ. How to Conduct Ourselves at Feasts. Psalm CL. Measures to Promote Revivals. Spiritual Sacrifices The Memorable Hymn. "And when they had Sung an Hymn, they Went Out ... The Worship of the Church. The Religion of the Primitive ... The Wonderful Unity of the Bible Attests Its Divine Authorship Faith and Knowledge. Resources Should a Christian listen to secular music? | GotQuestions.orgWhen can music be considered 'Christian music'? | GotQuestions.org Is Christian rock music appropriate? | GotQuestions.org Music: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Music: (Ceasing of) of Calamities Music: Alamoth: A Musical Term Which Appears In Music: Alamoth: And in the Title of Music: Al-Taschith: It Appears in the Titles of Music: Appointed to be Used in the Temple Music: Chambers for Musicians in the Temple, in Ezekiel's Vision Music: Considered Efficacious in Mental Disorders Music: Custom of Sending Away Friends With Music: Designed to Promote Joy Music: Discoursed During the offering of Sacrifices Music: Divided Into: Instrumental Music: Effects Produced on the Prophets of Old By Music: Generally Put Aside in Times of Affliction Music: Instruments of Dulcimer Music: Instruments of Dulcimer, a Double Pipe Music: Instruments of Early Invention of Music: Instruments of Gittith, a Stringed Instrument Music: Instruments of Great Diversity of Music: Instruments of Invented by David Music: Instruments of Invented by Jubal Music: Instruments of Made by Solomon Music: Instruments of Made by Tyrians Music: Instruments of Made of Almug Wood Music: Instruments of Made of Brass Music: Instruments of Made of Fir Wood Music: Instruments of Made of Horns of Animals Music: Instruments of Made of Silver Music: Instruments of Many, With Strings Music: Instruments of Often Expensively Ornamented Music: Instruments of Organ, Probably Composed of Pipes Furnishing a Number of Notes Music: Instruments of Psaltery Music: Instruments of Sackbut, a Harp Music: Instruments of The Jews Celebrated for Inventing Music: Instruments of Viol, a Lyre Music: Makalath, Maschil, Leannoth: These Terms are Found in the Titles of Music: Maschil: This Musical Sign Occurs in the Titles of Music: Micahtam: A Musical Term in the Titles of Music: Muth-Labben in the Title of Music: Neginah and Neginoth: Appear in the Titles of Music: Nehiloth: Appears in the Title of Music: Physical Effect of, on Man Music: Sheminith in the Titles of Music: Shiggaion in the Title of Music: Shiggaion: And Its Plural, Shigionoth, in the Title of Music: Shoshannim and Shushan-Eduth in the Titles To Music: Signifies the Murmuring Tone of a Harp Music: The Jews Used in Commemorating Great Men Music: The Jews Used in Dances Music: The Jews Used in Funeral Ceremonies Music: The Jews Used in Private Entertainments Music: The Jews Used in Religious Feasts Music: The Jews Used in Sacred Processions Music: The Jews Used: At Consecration of Temple Music: The Jews Used: At Coronation of Kings Music: The Jews Used: At Dedication of City Walls Music: The Jews Used: At Laying Foundation of Temple Music: The Jews Used: To Celebrate Victories Music: The Movements of Armies Regulated By Music: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Music: Vanity of all Unsanctified Related Terms Music-instruments (1 Occurrence) Women-servants (21 Occurrences) |