Topical Encyclopedia Cymbals are musical instruments mentioned in the Bible, primarily used in worship and celebration. They are percussion instruments made of metal, typically in the form of two concave plates that are clashed together to produce a loud, resonant sound. Cymbals are often associated with joy, festivity, and the expression of praise to God.Biblical References: 1. Old Testament Usage: · Cymbals are frequently mentioned in the context of temple worship and religious ceremonies. In 1 Chronicles 15:16, King David appoints the Levites to play various instruments, including cymbals, to accompany the Ark of the Covenant's procession: "David also told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments—harps, lyres, and cymbals." · In 1 Chronicles 16:5, Asaph and his brothers are appointed to minister before the Ark, with Asaph playing the cymbals: "Asaph was the chief, and Zechariah was second, then Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel. They were to play the harps and lyres, while Asaph was to sound the cymbals." · The dedication of Solomon's Temple also features cymbals prominently. In 2 Chronicles 5:13, the musicians and singers join together to praise the Lord: "The trumpeters and singers joined together to praise and thank the LORD with one voice. They lifted up their voices, accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and musical instruments, in praise to the LORD: 'For He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.'" 2. Psalms: · The Book of Psalms, a central text for worship and praise, frequently mentions cymbals. Psalm 150:5 calls for the use of cymbals in worship: "Praise Him with clashing cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals." · Psalm 98:4-6 also highlights the use of musical instruments, including cymbals, in worship: "Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth—let your cry ring out and sing praises! Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, in melodious song with the harp. With trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn shout for joy before the LORD, the King." 3. New Testament: · While cymbals are not explicitly mentioned in the New Testament, the concept of using music and instruments in worship is affirmed. In 1 Corinthians 13:1, the Apostle Paul uses the imagery of a "resounding gong or a clanging cymbal" to emphasize the importance of love over empty noise: "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal." Cultural and Religious Significance: Cymbals in biblical times were integral to the musical ensemble of the temple, contributing to the vibrant and dynamic expression of worship. Their loud and clear sound symbolized the exuberance and joy of praising God. The use of cymbals, along with other instruments, underscores the importance of music in the spiritual life of Israel, serving as a means to glorify God and unite the community in worship. The biblical portrayal of cymbals reflects a broader theological theme: the use of all available resources, including music and instruments, to honor and worship the Creator. This aligns with the biblical mandate to worship God with all one's heart, soul, and strength, utilizing the full range of human expression to celebrate His goodness and faithfulness. Smith's Bible Dictionary Cymbals Cymbala pecussive musical instrument. Two kinds of cymbals are mentioned in (Psalms 150:5) "loud cymbals" or castagnettes , and "high-sounding cymbals." The former consisted of our small plates of brass or of some other hard metal; two plates were attached to each hand of the performer, and were struck together to produce a great noise. The latter consisted of two larger plates, on held in each hand and struck together as an accompaniment to other instruments. Cymbals were used not only in the temple but for military purposes, and also by Hebrew women as a musical accompaniment to their national dances. Both kinds of cymbals are still common in the East. Library How to Conduct Ourselves at Feasts. Psalm CL. The Ministry. Argument: Octavius Attests the Fact that Men were Adopted as Gods ... Gifts no Certain Evidence of Grace. Christian Morals. Part I. John Chapter i. 32, 33 Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: Resources When can music be considered 'Christian music'? | GotQuestions.orgIs there a heavenly language? What language will we speak in heaven? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about women music ministers / worship leaders? | GotQuestions.org Cymbals: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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