κιθαρῳδός

a harpist

Definition

A κιθαρῳδός is a musician who sings or chants while accompanying themselves on a harp or lyre. In the New Testament, the term specifically denotes a professional performer, combining instrumental skill with vocal artistry. In Revelation 14:2, the sound from heaven is like that of κιθαρῳδοί, contributing to a scene of majestic, heavenly worship. Conversely, in Revelation 18:22, the voice of κιθαρῳδός will cease in fallen Babylon, symbolizing the end of all artistic celebration and joy in that city.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only in the book of Revelation, both times in highly symbolic, apocalyptic contexts. In Revelation 14:2, it describes the heavenly music heard from the 144,000, associated with divine triumph and worship. In Revelation 18:22, it is part of a list of silenced sounds in the judgment of Babylon, representing the complete cessation of cultural and artistic life. The usage thus contrasts heavenly, eternal worship with earthly, doomed entertainment.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words κιθάρα (kithara, meaning 'lyre' or 'harp') and ᾠδός (ōidos, meaning 'singer' or 'bard'). It is a compound noun literally meaning 'a lyre-singer.' The term was used in the Greco-Roman world for a professional performer, similar to a modern singer-songwriter accompanying themselves on an instrument.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in Revelation as it contrasts two realms: the eternal worship of God and the temporal pleasures of the world. In Revelation 14:2, the κιθαρῳδοί are part of the heavenly chorus, highlighting worship as an integral, joyful activity in God's presence. In Revelation 18:22, their silencing signifies God's judgment on a corrupt civilization, showing that all human artistry and revelry apart from God will ultimately cease. Understanding this enriches the contrast between the City of God and the city of man.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, a κιθαρῳδός was a specific type of professional entertainer, often performing at festivals, banquets, and public events. They were skilled musicians and poets, not merely casual players. This professional connotation is key to understanding the force of Revelation 18:22—the judgment on Babylon stops not just casual music, but its entire professional entertainment industry, a major component of its cultural and economic life.

ψάλλω (psallō, G5567) — a verb meaning to sing praises, often with stringed instrument accompaniment, but focuses more on the act of praise itself. μουσικός (mousikos, G3451) — a more general term for a musician or minstrel, not specifying the instrument or the combination with singing.

Word Details

Scripture References