Symbolism of Instrumentation (Biblical)

Source: The Complete Library of Christian Worship, Robert E. Webber, General Editor

Each of the instruments used in Israel had its function in the life of the people, as described. Their customary uses also gave them symbolic significance, especially in the New Testament, which rarely mentions their actual use in music.

The clanging gong of the pagan temples, together with the clashing cymbal, suggest to the apostle Paul the outwardly impressive but inwardly empty life without true agap love (1 Cor. 13:1). The trumpet (Greek salpingx; verb salpiz,"sound a trumpet") conveys...

 

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