Psalms 98:5
Sing unto the LORD with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm.
Original Language Analysis
זַמְּר֣וּ
Sing
H2167
זַמְּר֣וּ
Sing
Strong's:
H2167
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so
Historical Context
Temple worship featured Levitical musicians with harps, lyres, and cymbals (1 Chronicles 15:16-24). This verse reflects Israel's sophisticated musical tradition, where worship was both spontaneous joy and disciplined artistry. David established this musical order.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse challenge the idea that worship style doesn't matter to God?
- What 'instruments' (gifts, skills, resources) has God given you to employ in His praise?
- Is your worship characterized by both passionate joy and thoughtful excellence?
Analysis & Commentary
Sing unto the LORD with the harp (זַמְּרוּ לַיהוָה בְּכִנּוֹר, zammeru l'YHWH bekinnor)—Zimrah means to make music, to sing praise accompanied by instruments. The kinnor (lyre/harp) was David's instrument (1 Samuel 16:23), associated with prophetic worship and royal psalms.
With the harp, and the voice of a psalm (בְּכִנּוֹר וְקוֹל זִמְרָה, bekinnor veqol zimrah)—doubled emphasis on instrumental and vocal worship united. The phrase qol zimrah (voice of melody) suggests not mere singing but artful, skillful praise. Biblical worship engages both crafted beauty (instrumental music) and articulate word (psalm lyrics).
Worship befitting God's salvation requires our best offerings—cultivated skill, passionate heart, and thoughtful words. The New Testament transfers this principle: whatever we do in worship should be done skillfully and heartily to the Lord (Colossians 3:16-17, Ephesians 5:19).