CYMBALS

In Bible times, a percussion instrument similar to modern cymbals, used to accompany the harp, trumpet and other instruments. (2 Sam. 6:5; 1 Chron. 15:28; 2 Chron. 5:12, 13) According to 1 Chronicles 15:19, the cymbals for Jehovah’s temple were made of copper, but beyond this there is no further Scriptural description. Interestingly, though, a pair of cymbals have been found in an ancient Egyptian tomb that may be somewhat representative of Biblical cymbals. They are about five and a half inches (14.0 centimeters) in diameter with handles in the center, and were made of copper alloyed with a slight amount of sliver.

Psalm 150:5 indicates that more than one type of cymbal may have been known in Israel. The first occurrence of the term in this text describes “cymbals of melodious sound,” while the second reference is to “clashing cymbals.” Because each stanza of verses 3 and 4 of this song refers to one or more different musical instruments, the two stanzas of verse 5 could quite consistently be referring first to smaller, tinkling, well-tuned cymbals and, second, to cymbals of a larger diameter producing louder, deeper-toned sounds, when clashed together in heavy strokes.

The figure of “a clashing cymbal” is used by the apostle Paul to illustrate the shallowness of one’s speaking in tongues, if the motive of love is lacking. (1 Cor. 13:1) However, other references to cymbals, in addition to those already mentioned, are in connection with the worship of Jehovah. (1 Chron. 13:8; 16:5, 42; 25:1, 6; 2 Chron. 29:25; Ezra 3:10; Neh. 12:27) Whenever temple service was involved, trained Levites were the instrumentalists. (1 Chron. 16:4, 5, 42) While some scholars are inclined to believe that cymbals were strictly a Levitical and even a priestly instrument, Psalm 150:1, 5 may indicate a more general usage: “Praise Jah, you people! . . . Praise him with the cymbals.”

[Picture on page 406]

Ancient Egyptian cymbals