The term "Instruments of David" refers to the musical instruments associated with King David, the second king of Israel, who is renowned not only for his leadership and military prowess but also for his profound contributions to the worship practices of ancient Israel. David is traditionally credited with composing many of the Psalms, which were often accompanied by music. His influence on the musical worship of Israel is significant, and the instruments associated with him are mentioned throughout the Old Testament.

Biblical References and Descriptions

1. Lyre and Harp: The lyre and harp are the most frequently mentioned instruments associated with David. In 1 Samuel 16:23, it is recorded that David played the harp to soothe King Saul: "Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him." The lyre and harp were stringed instruments, and David's skill with them is noted as a means of both personal expression and divine worship.

2. Psaltery: The psaltery is another stringed instrument mentioned in connection with David. In 1 Chronicles 15:16, David instructs the Levites to appoint musicians to play "harps, lyres, and cymbals" to raise sounds of joy. The psaltery, similar to a harp, was used in temple worship and is often associated with the singing of psalms.

3. Cymbals: Cymbals are percussion instruments that were used in the worship services organized by David. In 1 Chronicles 15:28, it is noted: "So all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouting, with the sounding of rams’ horns and trumpets, and with cymbals and the music of harps and lyres." Cymbals were used to mark rhythm and add a celebratory sound to the music.

4. Trumpets: Trumpets, often made from ram's horns (shofar) or metal, were used in various religious and military contexts. In 1 Chronicles 13:8, it is recorded: "David and all the Israelites were celebrating with all their might before God, with songs and with harps, lyres, tambourines, cymbals, and trumpets." The trumpet was a powerful instrument used to signal important events and to accompany worship.

5. Tambourines: The tambourine, a hand-held percussion instrument, is mentioned in the context of joyful worship. In 2 Samuel 6:5, during the transport of the Ark of the Covenant, "David and all the house of Israel were celebrating before the LORD with all kinds of wood instruments, harps, lyres, tambourines, sistrums, and cymbals."

Role in Worship

David's establishment of organized musical worship was a significant development in the religious life of Israel. He appointed Levites to be musicians and singers, creating a structured system of worship that included the use of these instruments. In 1 Chronicles 25:1, David, along with the commanders of the army, set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres, and cymbals.

The instruments of David were not merely for entertainment; they were integral to the worship and praise of God. They were used to express a range of emotions, from lament to joy, and to enhance the communal and spiritual experience of worship. David's legacy in music and worship is a testament to his heart for God and his desire to honor Him through the arts.