Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The term "Al-tashheth" appears in the titles of several Psalms within the Book of Psalms in the Old Testament. It is a Hebrew phrase that is often translated as "Do Not Destroy." This term is traditionally understood to be a musical or liturgical directive, possibly indicating the tune to which the Psalm was to be sung or the style in which it was to be performed. Biblical References: The phrase "Al-tashheth" is found in the titles of four Psalms: Psalm 57, Psalm 58, Psalm 59, and Psalm 75. Each of these Psalms is attributed to David, and they are considered Michtams, a term that suggests they are golden or precious, possibly indicating their importance or the depth of their content. 1. Psalm 57: The title of Psalm 57 in the Berean Standard Bible reads, "For the choirmaster. To the tune of 'Do Not Destroy.' A Miktam of David, when he fled from Saul into the cave." This Psalm is a plea for mercy and protection, reflecting David's trust in God's deliverance during a time of great distress. 2. Psalm 58: The title of Psalm 58 states, "For the choirmaster. To the tune of 'Do Not Destroy.' A Miktam of David." This Psalm is an imprecatory prayer, calling for divine justice against the wicked and corrupt judges. It reflects a deep yearning for righteousness and the vindication of the innocent. 3. Psalm 59: The title of Psalm 59 reads, "For the choirmaster. To the tune of 'Do Not Destroy.' A Miktam of David, when Saul sent men to watch David’s house to kill him." This Psalm is a cry for deliverance from enemies, expressing confidence in God's protection and justice. 4. Psalm 75: The title of Psalm 75 is, "For the choirmaster: To the tune of 'Do Not Destroy.' A Psalm of Asaph. A Song." Unlike the previous three, this Psalm is attributed to Asaph and is a song of thanksgiving, celebrating God's righteous judgment and sovereignty. Interpretation and Significance: The use of "Al-tashheth" in these Psalms suggests a common theme of seeking divine intervention and protection. The directive "Do Not Destroy" may have served as a reminder of God's power to preserve and protect His people, even in the face of imminent danger or injustice. The repeated use of this phrase in the context of these Psalms highlights the importance of trusting in God's deliverance and justice. Musical and Liturgical Context: While the exact musical implications of "Al-tashheth" are not fully understood, it is clear that it served as an important liturgical or musical instruction. It may have indicated a specific melody or style that was well-known to the ancient Israelites. The consistent use of this phrase in the titles of these Psalms suggests that it held significant meaning in the worship practices of the time. Conclusion: The phrase "Al-tashheth" serves as a poignant reminder of the themes of divine protection, justice, and trust in God that permeate the Psalms. Its presence in the titles of these Psalms underscores the enduring relevance of these themes in the life of faith. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AL-TASHHETH; AL-TASCHITHal-tash'-heth, al-tas'-kith. See PSALMS; SONG. Thesaurus Altashheth... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AL-TASHHETH; AL-TASCHITH. al-tash'-heth, al-tas'-kith. See PSALMS; SONG. ... /a/altashheth.htm - 6k Al-tashheth (4 Occurrences) Michtam (12 Occurrences) Al-taschith (4 Occurrences) Music-maker (55 Occurrences) Musician (112 Occurrences) Merdiful (1 Occurrence) Altaschith Al-tash-heth (1 Occurrence) Song (207 Occurrences) Resources What is al-Qadr in Islam? | GotQuestions.orgWho is Al-Masih ad-Dajjal in Islamic eschatology? | GotQuestions.org What is the Twelfth Imam in Islamic eschatology? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Al-tashheth (4 Occurrences)Psalms 57:1 Psalms 58:1 Psalms 59:1 Psalms 75:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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