a primitive root (perhaps identical with זָמַר through the idea of striking with the fingers); properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e.; play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in song and music; give praise, sing forth praises, psalms.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâmar**, represented by `{{H2167}}`, refers to celebrating in song and music, specifically by playing a musical instrument. It appears **45 times** across **41 unique verses** in the Bible. Its root is associated with touching the strings of an instrument, and it signifies the act of making music, often accompanied by voice, to give praise and celebrate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2167}}` is primarily an expression of worship directed toward God. It is frequently associated with specific instruments, such as the **harp** `{{H3658}}`, the **psaltery** `{{H5035}}`, and the **timbrel** `{{H8596}}`, highlighting its musical nature ([[Psalms 149:3]], [[Psalms 71:22]]). This praise is a response to God's character and actions, such as His **righteousness** `{{H6664}}` and His **power** `{{H1369}}` ([[Psalms 7:17]], [[Psalms 21:13]]). The act of singing praises is overwhelmingly directed to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` and **God** `{{H430}}`, often as a command to all the **earth** `{{H776}}` [[Psalms 98:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify and expand upon the concept of musical praise:
* `{{H7891}}` **shîyr** (a song; abstractly, singing): This word for **sing** is often used in parallel with *zâmar*, indicating a combination of vocal and instrumental praise. For instance, David resolves to both **sing** and give praise [[Psalms 108:1]].
* `{{H1984}}` **hâlal** (to celebrate; (sing, be worthy of) praise): Meaning to **praise** or celebrate, this term is used to call for the praise of God's **name** `{{H8034}}` in the **dance** `{{H4234}}`, while *zâmar* is used for the instrumental accompaniment [[Psalms 149:3]].
* `{{H4210}}` **mizmôwr** (from זָמַר; properly, instrumental music; by implication, a poem set to notes; psalm): Derived directly from *zâmar*, a **psalm** is a poem specifically set to instrumental music. It is often used in the titles of songs that call the worshipper to **sing praises** `{{H2167}}` [[Psalms 101:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2167}}` is demonstrated in its specific application within worship.
* **Instrumental Worship:** The use of *zâmar* establishes the legitimacy and importance of musical instruments in worship. Praise is not limited to the voice but is enhanced by the **harp** `{{H3658}}`, **psaltery** `{{H5035}}`, and an **instrument of ten strings** `{{H6218}}` as a full-bodied expression of adoration [[Psalms 33:2]].
* **Praise as Proclamation:** To sing praise with instruments is an act of declaration. It serves to **declare** `{{H5046}}` God's **doings** `{{H5949}}` among the **people** `{{H5971}}` and to make His **praise** `{{H8416}}` **glorious** `{{H3519}}` ([[Psalms 9:11]], [[Psalms 66:2]]).
* **A Joyful and Universal Response:** The act is characterized by joy and is commanded to all creation. The call to **sing praises** `{{H2167}}` is extended to all the **earth** `{{H776}}` and to the **kingdoms** `{{H4467}}` of the earth, indicating a universal summons to worship God as **King** `{{H4428}}` ([[Psalms 47:6-7]], [[Psalms 68:32]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2167}}` is more than just singing; it is a specific term for musical praise that involves instruments. It represents a vibrant, physical, and audible form of worship, combining melody with heartfelt celebration of God's character, works, and name. Through the use of *zâmar*, scripture portrays worship as a comprehensive act that engages the whole person—heart, voice, and hands—in offering glorious and skillful praise to God [[Psalms 47:7]].
TRV