Topical Bible: Entertainments: Music and Dancing often Introduced At

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In the biblical context, music and dancing are frequently associated with celebrations, religious ceremonies, and significant events. These activities are depicted as expressions of joy, worship, and communal participation, reflecting the cultural and spiritual life of the people in biblical times.

Old Testament References

Music and dancing are prominently featured in the Old Testament, often accompanying moments of victory, worship, and festivity. One of the earliest instances is found in Exodus 15:20-21, where Miriam, the prophetess and sister of Aaron, leads the women of Israel in song and dance after the crossing of the Red Sea: "Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing. And Miriam sang back to them: 'Sing to the LORD, for He is highly exalted; the horse and rider He has thrown into the sea.'"

In 2 Samuel 6:14-16, King David famously dances before the LORD with all his might as the Ark of the Covenant is brought to Jerusalem: "And David, wearing a linen ephod, danced with all his might before the LORD, while he and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouting and the sound of the trumpets." This event underscores the use of music and dance as expressions of religious fervor and national celebration.

The Psalms, a central component of Israel's worship, frequently mention music as a means of praising God. Psalm 150:4 encourages the use of dance in worship: "Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; praise Him with strings and flute."

New Testament References

In the New Testament, music and dancing continue to be associated with celebration and joy. In the parable of the prodigal son, found in Luke 15:25, music and dancing signify the father's joy at the return of his lost son: "Meanwhile the older son was in the field, and as he approached the house, he heard music and dancing."

While the New Testament does not emphasize dancing in worship as prominently as the Old Testament, music remains an integral part of Christian gatherings. Ephesians 5:19 encourages believers to "speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord."

Cultural and Religious Significance

In biblical times, music and dancing were not merely forms of entertainment but were deeply woven into the fabric of religious and communal life. They served as expressions of joy, gratitude, and reverence towards God. The use of music and dance in worship and celebration reflects the holistic nature of biblical worship, engaging both the heart and the body in the adoration of the Creator.

The Bible presents music and dancing as gifts from God, to be used in ways that honor Him and foster community among His people. These activities, when aligned with a heart of worship, become powerful expressions of faith and devotion.

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

Mark 6:22
And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said to the damsel, Ask of me whatever you will, and I will give it you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 15:25
Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Memoir of John Bunyan
... Having so often sold thyself to me to work wickedness ... afterwards, that there was
music and dancing in his ... Bunyan quaintly says, this is the music which causes ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

part ii
... Here is merriment, music" there are prayers, hymns, lamentations for the dead ... Being
covetous, sensual, and proud, we often look contemptuously upon them, cry ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm