from צָלַל; (only dual) double tinklers, i.e. cymbals; cymbals.
Transliteration:mᵉtsêleth
Pronunciation:mets-ay'-leth
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word mᵉtsêleth (`{{H4700}}`), transliterated as "metselēth," refers specifically to cymbals. Its etymology traces back to the root tsalal (`{{H6766}}`), which conveys the sense of "to tinkle," "to rattle," or "to clatter." The base definition provided, "double tinklers," accurately reflects both the instrument's nature as a pair of struck metal discs and the characteristic sound it produces. The word itself appears in the dual form in its biblical occurrences, further emphasizing that it refers to a set of two cymbals. The semantic range of mᵉtsêleth is therefore quite narrow and precise, denoting this specific percussive musical instrument used in ancient Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of mᵉtsêleth (`{{H4700}}`) in the Hebrew Bible consistently place it within contexts of worship, celebration, and solemn procession.
* In [[2 Samuel 6:5]] and its parallel [[1 Chronicles 13:8]], cymbals are part of the joyous, if initially flawed, procession accompanying the Ark of the Covenant from Kiriath-jearim. They are listed alongside lyres, harps, tambourines, and sistrums, indicating their role in creating a vibrant and celebratory sound for divine service.
* The Chronicler's account of David organizing the Levitical musicians frequently mentions mᵉtsêleth. In [[1 Chronicles 15:16]], David instructs the chiefs of the Levites to appoint singers "with musical instruments, harps, lyres, and cymbals, making loud music." This highlights the cymbals' contribution to the volume and intensity of the praise.
* [[1 Chronicles 15:19]] specifically names Heman, Asaph, and Ethan as musicians designated "for striking bronze cymbals" (mᵉtsiltayim nᵉchosheth). The mention of "bronze" (`{{H5178}}`) provides a detail about the material composition of these instruments, reinforcing their percussive, clashing nature. Asaph is again noted for playing cymbals in [[1 Chronicles 16:5]].
* A particularly significant occurrence is in [[2 Chronicles 5:12-13]] during the dedication of Solomon's Temple. Here, the Levites, singers, and musicians, including those playing cymbals, unite their voices and instruments. The text states that "when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord... the house of the Lord was filled with a cloud." This passage powerfully links the sound of cymbals, as part of a unified orchestra, with the manifestation of God's glory and presence.
* Finally, in [[Nehemiah 12:27]], cymbals are again present during the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem, a moment of great national rejoicing and thanksgiving, reinforcing their association with communal celebration and dedication to God.
Across these contexts, mᵉtsêleth consistently signifies an instrument contributing to a loud, joyful, and often exuberant expression of worship and praise.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic relative of mᵉtsêleth (`{{H4700}}`) is its root, tsalal (`{{H6766}}`), meaning "to tinkle" or "to clatter," which directly describes the sound produced by cymbals. Another closely related Hebrew word is tsiltsal (`{{H6767}}`), also translated as "cymbals," and likewise derived from tsalal. Both mᵉtsêleth and tsiltsal refer to similar, if not identical, instruments, with tsiltsal appearing notably in [[Psalm 150:5]] as "loud clashing cymbals" and "resounding cymbals," emphasizing their powerful sound.
Beyond lexical connections, mᵉtsêleth is conceptually linked to the broader category of musical instruments used in biblical worship, such as harps (e.g., kinnor `{{H3658}}`), lyres (e.g., nebel `{{H5035}}`), trumpets (e.g., chatsotserah `{{H2689}}`), and tambourines (e.g., toph `{{H8596}}`). Its inclusion within these diverse ensembles underscores the rich and varied soundscape of Israelite praise. The concept of "making loud music" or "resounding" is central, highlighting the cymbals' role in creating an uninhibited and powerful expression of praise and joy.
### Theological Significance
The consistent appearance of mᵉtsêleth (`{{H4700}}`) in contexts of worship and celebration imbues it with significant theological meaning. First, cymbals are unequivocally presented as instruments dedicated to the worship of Yahweh. Their presence in the procession of the Ark, the dedication of the Temple, and the rededication of Jerusalem's wall underscores their sacred function in the corporate life of Israel.
Second, the loud, clashing sound of cymbals symbolizes an unreserved and exuberant expression of joy and praise. Unlike more melodic instruments, cymbals contribute a percussive intensity that signifies an unrestrained outpouring of adoration and thanksgiving. This suggests a theology of worship that embraces not only solemnity but also vibrant, even boisterous, celebration before God.
Third, the passage in [[2 Chronicles 5:12-13]] is particularly profound. The unified sound of the musicians, including those playing cymbals, precedes and accompanies the filling of the Temple with the cloud of God's glory. This suggests that such worship, characterized by its unity and powerful sound, is pleasing to God and can be a medium through which His divine presence is manifested among His people. The sound of mᵉtsêleth thus becomes associated with the very aesthetic of divine encounter.
Finally, as part of a diverse musical ensemble, mᵉtsêleth contributes to the "fullness" of praise. It demonstrates that God is worthy of every kind of musical expression, from the intricate melodies of stringed instruments to the bold, rhythmic impact of percussion. The use of cymbals in organized Levitical services also indicates that even exuberant worship is conducted with intentionality and structure, reflecting the orderliness of divine praise.
### Summary
The Hebrew word mᵉtsêleth (`{{H4700}}`) refers to cymbals, percussive instruments whose name derives from the root tsalal (`{{H6766}}`), meaning "to tinkle" or "to clatter," indicative of their characteristic sound. Always appearing in the dual form, emphasizing a pair, these instruments are consistently found in biblical narratives associated with vibrant, often loud, worship and celebration of Yahweh. From the joyous procession of the Ark of the Covenant ([[2 Samuel 6:5]], [[1 Chronicles 13:8]]) to the grand dedication of Solomon's Temple ([[2 Chronicles 5:12-13]]) and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall ([[Nehemiah 12:27]]), cymbals are integral to the soundscape of Israel's corporate praise. They are often mentioned alongside other instruments like harps and lyres, contributing to a rich and diverse musical offering. Theologically, mᵉtsêleth signifies an unreserved, exuberant expression of joy and adoration before God. Its presence at moments of divine manifestation, such as the Temple dedication, suggests that the distinct, powerful sound of cymbals is not only pleasing to God but can also accompany and signify His glorious presence among His people. The use of cymbals thus underscores a biblical understanding of worship that is both structured and passionately expressive, offering a full and resounding tribute to the Almighty.
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