Sheminith
TextsWhat is the meaning of Sheminith in the Bible?
Sheminith denotes a musical direction found in the superscriptions of Psalms 6, 12, and 88 in the Hebrew Bible, generally interpreted as indicating performance on an eight-stringed lyre or in the octave register.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Sheminith clarifies the musical context of these specific Psalms, revealing that they were likely composed for liturgical performance using instruments with eight strings or in a lower vocal range, which aids in reconstructing ancient Israelite worship practices.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Sheminith functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Sheminith in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Sheminith 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
"Sheminith." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/sheminith/