The tabret, also known as the timbrel, is a percussion instrument mentioned frequently in the Bible, often associated with joy, celebration, and worship. It is akin to the modern tambourine, consisting of a wooden frame with a membrane stretched over it, sometimes accompanied by small metal jingles. The tabret is primarily played by hand, producing a rhythmic sound that complements vocal and instrumental music.

Biblical References and Usage

The tabret is first mentioned in Genesis 31:27, where Laban reproaches Jacob for leaving secretly: "Why did you flee secretly and deceive me, without telling me? I would have sent you away with joy and singing, with tambourines and harps." . This passage highlights the tabret's role in festive occasions and its association with joy and celebration.

In Exodus 15:20, the tabret is prominently featured in the Song of Miriam: "Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing." . Here, the tabret is used in a context of victory and divine deliverance, as the Israelites celebrate their escape from Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea.

The tabret is also mentioned in 1 Samuel 10:5, where it is part of a prophetic procession: "After that you will come to Gibeah of God, where there are Philistine garrisons. As you approach the town, you will meet a procession of prophets coming down from the high place with harps, tambourines, flutes, and lyres before them, and they will be prophesying." . This indicates the instrument's use in religious and prophetic contexts, underscoring its spiritual significance.

In Isaiah 5:12, the tabret is mentioned in a context of revelry and excess: "They have lyres and harps, tambourines and flutes, and wine at their feasts, but they disregard the deeds of the LORD and fail to consider the work of His hands." . This passage serves as a caution against indulgence and neglect of spiritual duties, even as music and celebration are part of human experience.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The tabret's frequent appearance in biblical texts underscores its importance in ancient Hebrew culture. It was a versatile instrument used in various settings, from personal and communal celebrations to religious ceremonies and prophetic acts. The tabret's sound, often associated with joy and triumph, made it a fitting accompaniment for songs of praise and thanksgiving.

In the context of worship, the tabret was part of the broader musical tradition that included other instruments like the harp, lyre, and trumpet. Music played a vital role in the worship practices of ancient Israel, enhancing the communal experience of God's presence and acts.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The tabret symbolizes joy, celebration, and the human response to divine intervention. Its use in biblical narratives often marks moments of significant spiritual and communal importance. The instrument's association with women, as seen in the account of Miriam, highlights the inclusive nature of worship and celebration in the biblical tradition.

In prophetic and revelatory contexts, the tabret signifies the harmonious relationship between music and spiritual expression. It serves as a reminder of the power of music to convey divine messages and inspire faith and devotion.

Overall, the tabret is a testament to the rich musical heritage of the biblical world, reflecting the deep connection between music, worship, and the human experience of the divine.1 Samuel 10:5
After that you shall come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when you are come thither to the city, that you shall meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 24:8
The mirth of tabrets ceases, the noise of them that rejoice ends, the joy of the harp ceases.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A Prophet's Woes
... And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe ... Isaiah feels the incongruity that
music should be so ... it by adding to his list of musical instruments 'and wine ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture h/a prophets woes.htm

The Holy War,
... or bugle sounds; so that, when the trumpeters made their best music, in the ... no horses
or wheeled chariots, no fire and arrows, but other instruments much more ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

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