Music was very much a part of religious life, and musicians had always been important. They were classed along with smiths and those who possessed flocks and herds. Jubal was recognized as the father of all who played the pipe (Gen 4:20-21). We therefore find many examples of music in Bible times. The instruments that were played are not always easy to identify from their Hebrew names, but the following instruments (arranged alphabetically) are the most important ones used:
Continue reading MANNERS & CUSTOMS OF THE BIBLE (MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS)
Trumpets in Bible times were made of metal or bone and formed into an instrument at least two feet long. They had a high sound that could be regulated to some degree, but they were used more for signaling than for making music. Rams’ horns, also called shofar, were signaling instruments used to assemble the army (Judg 3:27; 1Sam 13:3) or sound an alarm (Job 39:24-25; Jer 6:1; Amos 3:6). They are the most commonly mentioned instrument in the Bible, with seventy-two references.