Psalms 98:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 98:5
5 Sing unto the LORD with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm.
Chapter Context
Psalms 98 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, sacrifice, hope. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-9: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 98:5
5 Sing unto the LORD with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm.
Analysis
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).
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.
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?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 51:3