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Cymbals

Artifacts

What is the meaning of Cymbals in the Bible?

Cymbals were percussion instruments consisting of two convex metal plates or discs struck together. They ranged from small, tinkle-like castanets to larger, high-sounding brass plates.

SIGNIFICANCE

These instruments provide insight into the auditory landscape of ancient liturgical and celebratory practices. Their mention helps historians distinguish between different types of musical accompaniment used in various social and religious contexts.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Cymbals were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Cymbals in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Cymbals clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Cymbals." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/cymbals/
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