### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **zᵉmâr**, represented by `{{H2170}}`, denotes **instrumental music** or **musick**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used exclusively in the book of Daniel to refer to the collective sound of a full orchestra assembled for a specific state-mandated ceremony.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2170}}` is used in a single, highly significant context: King Nebuchadnezzar's command to worship a golden image. The term appears at the end of a list of specific instruments, such as the cornet, flute, harp, and sackbut. The sound of "all kinds of **musick**" served as the official, unmissable signal for all people to fall down and **worship** the idol ([[Daniel 3:5]], [[Daniel 3:7]]). The repetition of this command highlights the music's role as a tool of absolute royal authority and enforced idolatry ([[Daniel 3:10]], [[Daniel 3:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the function and context of the **musick**:
* `{{H7162}}` **qeren** (horn, cornet): This word, meaning "a horn (literally or for sound)," is one of the specific instruments whose sound contributed to the overall **musick** that signaled the time for worship [[Daniel 3:10]].
* `{{H7032}}` **qâl** (sound, voice): This term for **sound** is used to describe what the people were commanded to listen for. The moment they heard the **sound** of the orchestra, they were to act [[Daniel 3:7]].
* `{{H8086}}` **shᵉmaʻ** (hear, obey): This verb, meaning "to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.)," is central to the decree. The command was triggered by the act of hearing the **musick**, linking the auditory signal directly to the required act of obedience [[Daniel 3:15]].
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** (worship): This word for worship, meaning "to prostrate oneself (in homage)," describes the ultimate purpose of the **musick**. The entire orchestral performance was designed to compel this single act of false worship [[Daniel 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2170}}` is derived entirely from its role in the conflict between worldly authority and divine faithfulness.
* **A Signal for Idolatry:** The **musick** is the state-sanctioned trigger for a compulsory act of idolatry. Its sound is inextricably linked to the command to **worship** the golden image, making it an instrument of rebellion against God [[Daniel 3:5]].
* **The Test of Allegiance:** The command initiated by the **musick** forces a choice and serves as a test of faith. For Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, refusing to bow when the music played was a declaration of their exclusive loyalty to God [[Daniel 3:15]].
* **Coercive Worldly Power:** The use of a grand orchestra ("all kinds of **musick**") symbolizes the pomp and coercive power of Nebuchadnezzar's empire, which uses sensory and ceremonial force to demand universal submission [[Daniel 3:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2170}}` is far more than a simple term for music. Within its specific biblical context, it functions as a symbol of state-enforced idolatry. It is the auditory cue for a test of faith, representing the immense pressure of a pagan king's command. The response to this **musick** ultimately serves to distinguish between those who bend to worldly power and those whose faithfulness to God is absolute.
TRV