כִּנּוֹר
a harp
Definition
The Hebrew word כִּנּוֹר (kinnôwr) refers to a stringed musical instrument, most commonly translated as 'harp' or 'lyre.' It was a portable, hand-held instrument, likely with a wooden frame and strings that were plucked to produce music. In the Bible, it is often associated with joyful celebration, as in the processional bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:5), and with prophetic inspiration, as when young David played to soothe King Saul (1 Samuel 16:23). It is also listed among the instruments of skilled musicians, like Jubal in Genesis 4:21, and the lavish court of King Solomon (1 Kings 10:12).
Biblical Usage
The כִּנּוֹר appears 41 times, primarily in narrative and poetic books. It is frequently used in contexts of worship, celebration, and prophecy. For example, it is played before prophets (1 Samuel 10:5), to accompany psalms and thanksgiving (Psalm 33:2, Psalm 150:3), and in royal and festive settings (Isaiah 5:12). Its use spans from early Genesis to the prophets, often symbolizing joy, skill, and divine inspiration.
Etymology
Derived from an unused root meaning 'to twang' or 'to pluck,' indicating its function as a stringed instrument. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic 'knr' and Akkadian 'kinnāru,' all referring to a lyre or harp, showing it was a common instrument across the ancient Near East.
Semantic Range
The כִּנּוֹר is theologically significant as a primary instrument of worship and prophecy in Israel. It represents the joy of God's presence (2 Samuel 6:5), the soothing power of music inspired by the Spirit (1 Samuel 16:23), and the proper offering of praise to God (Psalms). Understanding it as a lyre, not a modern harp, enriches readings of David's musicianship and the vibrant, participatory nature of biblical worship.
In ancient Israel, the כִּנּוֹר was likely a lyre—a small, U-shaped wooden instrument with strings, held in the lap or against the body. It differed from larger, modern harps. It was used by shepherds (like David), professional musicians, and in both sacred and secular settings, being central to communal life, lament, and celebration.
נֵבֶל (nēvel, H5035) — a larger, harp-like stringed instrument often mentioned alongside the kinnôwr. חָלִיל (ḥālîl, H2485) — a wind instrument (flute), distinct in sound and use. תֹּף (tōph, H8596) — a percussion instrument (tambourine), used for rhythm rather than melody.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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