Psalms 81:2
Take a psalm, and bring hither the timbrel, the pleasant harp with the psaltery.
Original Language Analysis
שְֽׂאוּ
Take
H5375
שְֽׂאוּ
Take
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
1 of 8
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
זִ֭מְרָה
a psalm
H2172
זִ֭מְרָה
a psalm
Strong's:
H2172
Word #:
2 of 8
a musical piece or song to be accompanied by an instrument
וּתְנוּ
and bring
H5414
וּתְנוּ
and bring
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
3 of 8
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
נָעִ֣ים
the pleasant
H5273
נָעִ֣ים
the pleasant
Strong's:
H5273
Word #:
6 of 8
delightful (objective or subjective, literal or figurative)
Cross References
Psalms 92:3Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound.Mark 14:26And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.Exodus 15:20And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.
Historical Context
Temple worship under David and Solomon featured professional Levitical musicians (1 Chronicles 15:16-24). The instruments mentioned here—timbrel, harp, and psaltery—formed the core of Israel's liturgical orchestra. Unlike pagan worship that used music for manipulation or ecstasy, Israel's music declared God's character and mighty acts.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your church's use of music and instruments enhance worship, and what can be improved to bring greater glory to God?
- Why does God command beauty and artistry in worship rather than merely functional or plain expressions?
- What role should joy and celebration play in Christian worship, not just reverence and solemnity?
Analysis & Commentary
Take a psalm (שְׂאוּ־זִמְרָה)—The verb se'û ('lift up, raise') with zimrâh (melody, song) commands the congregation to elevate praise through music. Bring hither the timbrel (tôph)—a hand drum used in joyful celebrations (Exodus 15:20, Psalm 150:4), often played by women in processions.
The triad of instruments—the pleasant harp (kinnôr, David's instrument) and the psaltery (nevel, a larger stringed instrument)—creates full orchestration for temple worship. This verse demonstrates that biblical worship engages the whole person: voice (v. 1), body (percussion), and skillful artistry (strings). God delights in beauty and excellence offered to His glory.