Music

Your processions are seen, O God, the processions of my God, my King, into the sanctuary- singers in front, musicians behind, between them young women playing hand-drums.

Psalm 68:25-26 (Eng. Trans. 68:24-25)

The Bible preserves an extensive and well-developed musical vocabulary. Even though precise meanings are sometimes elusive, it is abundantly clear that singing, dancing and playing instruments figured prominently in Temple worship. Musicians, both male and female, were held in high regard.

Figurine of a woman playing a hand-drum. 8th - 7th centuries B.C.E.

Terracottas of female drum players and other figurines depicting musicians, both male and female, have been found in Judah and Israel, as well as Phoenicia and Cyprus. Hand-drums, in particular, were associated with women, both among the figurines and in the biblical record, indicating that women customarily played this instrument. Female drummers not only provided rhythms for singing and dancing at family and community celebrations, but, as Psalm 68 makes evident, their music was also incorporated into the ceremonies of the Temple.

Seal of Miqnêyaw, early eighth century B.C.E. This seal was inscribed on both top and bottom; Upper drawing, inscription reading: Miqnêyaw, Servant of Yahweh. Lower drawing, the impression made seal: Belonging to Miqnêyaw, Servant of Yahweh.

The finely cut seal of Miqnêyaw, a high Temple functionary of the early eighth century B.C.E., identifies him as a Servant of Yahweh. This was an official title that may have referred exclusively to musicians and singers.