Topical Bible: Music: The Jews Used in Commemorating Great Men

◄ Music: The Jews Used in Commemorating Great Men ►

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In the biblical tradition, music holds a significant place in the commemoration of great men, serving as a means to honor their deeds and preserve their memory. The Jewish people, with their rich musical heritage, utilized songs and instruments to celebrate and remember the lives and contributions of notable figures.

One of the earliest examples of music used in this context is found in the Song of Moses, recorded in Deuteronomy 32. This song was delivered by Moses himself as a testament to God's faithfulness and a reminder of the covenant. It served to commemorate Moses' leadership and the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land. The song is a profound reflection on God's dealings with His people and Moses' role as a servant of the Lord.

Another significant instance is the lamentation of David over Saul and Jonathan, as recorded in 2 Samuel 1:17-27. David's elegy, known as "The Song of the Bow," was a poignant tribute to the fallen king and his son. David instructed that this lament be taught to the people of Judah, ensuring that the memory of Saul and Jonathan would endure through the generations. The song highlights the valor and nobility of these men, and David's deep personal grief is expressed through its verses.

The Psalms, a central component of Jewish worship and musical expression, also contain numerous references to the commemoration of great men. Psalm 78, for example, recounts the history of Israel and the leadership of figures like Moses and David. Through music, the psalmist seeks to instruct future generations about the mighty works of God and the faithfulness of His servants.

In the New Testament, the tradition of using music to commemorate great men continues. The Magnificat, Mary's song of praise in Luke 1:46-55, celebrates the fulfillment of God's promises through the coming of Jesus Christ. While not a direct commemoration of a human leader, it honors the role of Mary and the significance of the Messiah's arrival, echoing the Jewish tradition of using song to mark pivotal moments and figures in salvation history.

Throughout the biblical narrative, music serves as a powerful tool for remembrance and celebration. It captures the essence of great leaders, their deeds, and their relationship with God, ensuring that their legacy is preserved in the hearts and minds of the people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 35:25
And Jeremiah lamented for Josiah: and all the singing men and the singing women spoke of Josiah in their lamentations to this day, and made them an ordinance in Israel: and, behold, they are written in the lamentations.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Rock and the Water
... On the anniversary of this day the Jews still do as they used to, and ... may be cracked
with thirst, even whilst you hear the tinkle of its music amongst the ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture i/the rock and the water.htm

part ii
... Here is merriment, music" there are prayers, hymns ... These dainties must only be used
after everything ... with the following exclamation: " Commemorating our most ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm