### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kithára**, represented by `{{G2788}}`, is the term for a **lyre** or **harp**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the New Testament. The base definition is "of uncertain affinity; a lyre:--harp," and it is primarily associated with worship and musical expression in heavenly scenes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2788}}` is consistently found in contexts of worship and divine proclamation. In the book of Revelation, the twenty-four elders are depicted holding **harps** and golden vials of prayer before the Lamb, linking the instrument directly to heavenly worship [[Revelation 5:8]]. The sound from heaven is described as the voice of harpers playing their **harps** [[Revelation 14:2]]. It is also an emblem of triumph, as those who gain victory over the beast are seen holding the **harps** of God [[Revelation 15:2]]. In a different context, the apostle Paul uses the **harp** to illustrate the need for clarity in spiritual gifts, noting that instruments must make a distinction in their sounds to be understood [[1 Corinthians 14:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for the meaning of **kithára**:
* `{{G2789}}` **kitharízō** (to play on a lyre:--harp.): This verb, derived from **kithára**, describes the action of playing the instrument. It is used to describe the sound from heaven as "harpers **harping** with their harps" [[Revelation 14:2]].
* `{{G2790}}` **kitharōidós** (a lyre-singer(-player), i.e. harpist:--harper.): This word identifies the musician who plays the harp. These **harpers** are heard in heaven [[Revelation 14:2]] and their absence is noted in the judgment of Babylon [[Revelation 18:22]].
* `{{G836}}` **aulós** (a flute (as blown):--pipe.): This term for a pipe is used alongside **kithára** to make a point about intelligible sound, contrasting the sounds of a **pipe** or harp [[1 Corinthians 14:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2788}}` is centered on its role in worship and divine order.
* **Instrument of Heavenly Worship:** The **harp** is consistently portrayed as an instrument used in the direct presence of God and the Lamb, held by the elders and the redeemed, signifying its role in celestial praise [[Revelation 5:8]].
* **Symbol of Victorious Praise:** The "harps of God" are in the hands of those who have overcome the beast, symbolizing that their worship is a celebration of God's ultimate victory and their redemption [[Revelation 15:2]].
* **Metaphor for Intelligibility:** In 1 Corinthians, the **harp** serves as a metaphor for the importance of clarity and order in the church. Just as a **harp** must be played with distinction to produce music, spiritual expression must be understandable to be edifying [[1 Corinthians 14:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2788}}` **kithára** is far more than a simple reference to a musical instrument. Within the scriptures, it functions as a powerful symbol of heavenly worship, triumphant joy, and the necessity of coherent praise. From the hands of the elders before the throne to its use as a teaching tool for the Corinthian church, the **harp** represents a form of expression that is both beautiful and divinely ordered.
TRV