### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉnaʻnaʻ**, represented by `{{H4517}}`, refers to a **cornet** or sistrum, an instrument so-called for its rattling sound. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entirety of the Bible, making its single appearance particularly noteworthy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4517}}` is found in a moment of great national celebration. In [[2 Samuel 6:5]], **David** `{{H1732}}` and all the **house** `{{H1004}}` of **Israel** `{{H3478}}` **played** `{{H7832}}` **before** `{{H6440}}` the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` with a full array of musical instruments. The **cornet** is listed among instruments made of **fir** `{{H1265}}` **wood** `{{H6086}}`, including **harps** `{{H3658}}`, **psalteries** `{{H5035}}`, **timbrels** `{{H8596}}`, and **cymbals** `{{H6767}}`, all used to express immense joy.
### Related Words & Concepts
The **cornet** `{{H4517}}` was part of a larger orchestra of praise, which included several other key instruments:
* `{{H3658}}` **kinnôwr**: This word for **harp** is frequently associated with praise and worship. It is used to praise the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` and sing to Him [[Psalms 33:2]].
* `{{H8596}}` **tôph**: A **tambourine** or **timbrel**, this instrument is often linked to celebration, dance, and joyful processions, as when Miriam led the women of Israel [[Exodus 15:20]] or in praise with dance [[Psalms 149:3]].
* `{{H6767}}` **tsᵉlâtsal**: This word refers to a **cymbal**, an instrument known for its clanging or clattering sound. Cymbals are specifically mentioned as instruments for praising God, including both loud and high-sounding varieties [[Psalms 150:5]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4517}}` is tied directly to the monumental event in which it is mentioned. It highlights key themes of worship and celebration.
* **Joyful Expression:** The use of the **cornet** is part of an act where Israel **played** `{{H7832}}` before God. The root word for "played" can also mean to make merry or rejoice, underscoring the exuberant and celebratory nature of the worship [[Jeremiah 30:19]].
* **Corporate Worship:** The celebration was not a solitary act but involved **David** `{{H1732}}` and "all the house of **Israel**" [[2 Samuel 6:5]], signifying a unified, national expression of reverence and joy before the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`.
* **A Full Offering of Praise:** The variety of instruments, from strings like the **harp** `{{H3658}}` to percussion like **timbrels** `{{H8596}}`, **cymbals** `{{H6767}}`, and the rattling **cornet** `{{H4517}}`, illustrates a lavish and wholehearted offering of praise.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4517}}` is a word of extreme rarity, its singular context is deeply significant. As a **cornet** or sistrum, it was part of a dynamic and joyous orchestra assembled by **David** and all of **Israel** to celebrate **before** the **LORD**. Its inclusion paints a vivid picture of worship in the Old Testament as a vibrant, loud, and communal expression of devotion to God.
TRV