Music held a significant place in the private and social lives of the Jewish people, as evidenced by various biblical accounts. The use of music in private settings was not only for entertainment but also for personal expression, celebration, and worship.

Biblical References and Context

The Bible provides several instances where music is used in private or semi-private settings. One notable example is found in the account of Laban and Jacob. When Jacob secretly fled from Laban, Laban confronted him, expressing his disappointment that Jacob left without allowing him to send him off with joy and music: "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" (Genesis 31:27). This passage indicates that music was an integral part of family celebrations and farewells.

In the book of Job, music is mentioned as part of the daily life of the prosperous: "They sing to the tambourine and lyre and rejoice at the sound of the flute" (Job 21:12). This suggests that music was a common feature in the homes of those who were well-off, used to enhance the joy and festivity of their gatherings.

Instruments and Musical Forms

The instruments mentioned in these contexts include the tambourine, lyre, and flute, which were commonly used in ancient Israelite music. The tambourine, often associated with rhythm and dance, was a popular instrument for both religious and secular occasions. The lyre, a stringed instrument, was used for melodic accompaniment, while the flute added a distinct, joyful sound to musical ensembles.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Music in private entertainments was not merely for amusement; it often carried deeper cultural and religious significance. It was a means of expressing gratitude, joy, and community solidarity. The use of music in these settings reflects the broader biblical theme of music as a gift from God, intended to bring joy and foster relationships among His people.

Music and Emotional Expression

The emotional power of music is evident in its use during times of personal reflection and emotional expression. In 1 Samuel 16:23, David played the harp to soothe King Saul: "Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play, and relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him" . This illustrates the therapeutic role of music in private settings, providing comfort and emotional relief.

Conclusion

The use of music in private entertainments among the Jews was a multifaceted practice that enriched their social and spiritual lives. It served as a vehicle for celebration, emotional expression, and community bonding, reflecting the integral role of music in the cultural and religious fabric of ancient Israel.Isaiah 5:12
And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the LORD, neither consider the operation of his hands.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 6:5
That chant to the sound of the viol, and invent to themselves instruments of music, like David;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Letter Lx. To Heliodorus.
... I say nothing of the Jews, the Greeks, and the Romans ... out of their harsh discord
into the sweet music of the ... we hear of a philosopher [1867] who used to boast ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter lx to heliodorus.htm

Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians.
... and juggling, [839]ib.; and to loose music, [840]ib ... Gentiles, once were "dogs," but
the Jews had now taken ... Gifts, God's, to be used in His praise, [1492]233 ...
/.../homilies on philippians colossians and.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... vortex of dissipation, by re-publishing the Book of Sports, to be used on Sundays ...
from rejecting of me, as I found afterwards, that there was music and dancing ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

part ii
... Here is merriment, music" there are prayers, hymns ... during Divine service, both public
and private, for the ... Food and drink must only be used for strengthening ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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