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.
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.
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.
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.
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