Jump to: Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Gittith" appears in the titles of three Psalms: Psalm 8, Psalm 81, and Psalm 84. The word is of uncertain origin, but it is generally believed to be related to a musical term or instrument. The etymology of "Gittith" is often associated with the city of Gath, a Philistine city, suggesting that it may refer to a musical style or instrument that originated there. Some scholars propose that it could be a type of stringed instrument or a specific melody known in ancient Israel. Biblical References: 1. Psalm 8: The title of this psalm reads, "For the choirmaster. According to Gittith. A Psalm of David." . This psalm is a hymn of praise, celebrating the majesty of God and the dignity bestowed upon humanity. The use of "Gittith" here suggests that the psalm was to be performed with a particular musical accompaniment or style. 2. Psalm 81: The title states, "For the choirmaster. According to Gittith. Of Asaph." . This psalm is a call to worship and a reminder of God's deliverance and provision for Israel. The mention of "Gittith" indicates that it was to be sung with a specific musical arrangement, possibly invoking a joyful or celebratory tone. 3. Psalm 84: The title reads, "For the choirmaster. According to Gittith. A Psalm of the sons of Korah." . This psalm expresses a deep longing for the presence of God and the blessedness of dwelling in His house. The use of "Gittith" may imply a musical setting that enhances the psalm's themes of joy and reverence. Interpretations and Theories: The exact nature of "Gittith" remains a topic of debate among scholars and theologians. Some propose that it refers to a specific type of lyre or harp associated with the Philistine city of Gath, reflecting cultural exchanges between the Israelites and their neighbors. Others suggest that "Gittith" could denote a particular melody or musical mode that was well-known at the time. In the context of worship, the use of "Gittith" in these psalms highlights the importance of music in the liturgical life of ancient Israel. Music served as a powerful medium for expressing devotion, teaching theological truths, and fostering communal worship. Cultural and Historical Context: The mention of "Gittith" in the Psalms underscores the rich musical tradition of ancient Israel. Music played a central role in both personal and communal expressions of faith. The Psalms, often referred to as the hymnbook of Israel, were integral to worship and were accompanied by various musical instruments and styles. The association with Gath may also reflect the historical interactions between the Israelites and the Philistines. Despite being adversaries, there were instances of cultural exchange, as seen in the adoption of certain musical elements. Theological Significance: Theologically, the use of "Gittith" in the Psalms emphasizes the universality of worship and the incorporation of diverse cultural elements in praising God. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and the inclusion of various peoples and traditions in the worship of the one true God. In summary, while the precise meaning of "Gittith" remains elusive, its presence in the Psalms highlights the integral role of music in worship and the dynamic interplay of cultural influences in the biblical narrative. Smith's Bible Dictionary Gittitha musical instrument, by some supposed to have been used by the people of Gath, and by others to have been employed at the festivities of the vintage. Psal 8,81,84. ATS Bible Dictionary GittithThe word Gittish signifies belonging to Gath. It probably denotes either a musical instrument or a kind of music derived from Gath, where David sojourned for a time during the persecution of Saul, 1 Samuel 27:1-7. The word Gath also signifies in Hebrew a winepress. Hence not a few have supposed that it denotes either an instrument or a melody used in the vintage. It is prefixed to Psalm 8:1-9; 81:1- 16; 84:1-12, all of which requires an animated strain of music. Easton's Bible Dictionary A stringed instrument of music. This word is found in the titles of Psalm 8, 81, 84. In these places the LXX. render the word by "on the wine-fats." The Targum explains by "on the harp which David brought from Gath." It is the only stringed instrument named in the titles of the Psalms. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A musical instrument, of unknown character, supposed by some to have been used by the people of Gath, and thence obtained by David. It is mentioned in the title of Psalms viii., lxxxi., and lxxxiv.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GITTITHStrong's Hebrew 1665. Gittith -- a musical term of unc. meaning.... 1664, 1665. Gittith. 1666 . a musical term of unc. meaning. Transliteration: Gittith Phonetic Spelling: (ghit-teeth') Short Definition: Gittith. ... /hebrew/1665.htm - 6k Library Psalm 8 Psalm 81 Psalm 84 Index of Subjects. The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles). The Poetical Books. Thesaurus Gittith (6 Occurrences)... lxxxiv. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. GITTITH. git'-ith. See MUSIC; PSALMS. Multi-Version Concordance Gittith (6 Occurrences). Psalms ... /g/gittith.htm - 9k Music-maker (55 Occurrences) Overseer (84 Occurrences) Give (13501 Occurrences) Music (143 Occurrences) Joyously (8 Occurrences) Gittite's (1 Occurrence) Psalm (213 Occurrences) Settest (13 Occurrences) Majesty (67 Occurrences) Resources To what do the various musical terms in the book of Psalms refer? | GotQuestions.orgGittith: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gittith (6 Occurrences)Psalms 7:17 Psalms 8:1 Psalms 80:19 Psalms 81:1 Psalms 83:18 Psalms 84:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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