The Hebrew word nâgan, represented by H5059, is a primitive root that means to play on a stringed instrument. It appears 15 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning extends from the physical act of thrumming strings with the fingers to the broader concepts of making music, melody, and being a musician or minstrel.
In the biblical narrative, H5059 is prominently featured in the life of David. He is first introduced as "a cunning player" 1 Samuel 16:16 sought to soothe King Saul. When the evil spirit was upon Saul, David played with his hand, bringing the king relief 1 Samuel 16:23. The word also has a direct connection to the prophetic ministry; when a minstrel played, the hand of the LORD came upon the prophet Elisha 2 Kings 3:15. In the Psalms, the term is used as a command in worship, urging believers to play skillfully unto the Lord Psalms 33:3. It also appears metaphorically, as in Ezekiel's prophecy, which is heard by the people like a lovely song from one who can play well on an instrument, but whose words are not heeded Ezekiel 33:32.
Several related words expand upon the concept of musical performance and worship:
- H3658 kinnôwr (a harp): This is the specific instrument often played. Saul's servants were commanded to find a man who was a cunning player H5059 on a harp H3658 1 Samuel 16:16.
- H5058 nᵉgîynâh (instrumental music; by implication, a stringed instrument): This noun is derived from H5059 and refers to the music itself. Isaiah speaks of singing songs H5058 to stringed instruments H5059 in the house of the LORD Isaiah 38:20.
- H7891 shîyr (to sing): This verb is frequently paired with H5059 to describe a complete musical worship experience, involving both voices and instruments Psalms 33:3.
- H7892 shîyr (a song; abstractly, singing): The noun form often appears alongside H5059, such as in the instruction to a forgotten harlot to make sweet melody H5059 and sing many songs H7892 to be remembered Isaiah 23:16.
- H8608 tâphaph (to drum, i.e. play (as) on the tambourine): This describes another form of musical accompaniment. In a worship procession, players on instruments H5059 followed after the singers, along with damsels playing with timbrels H8608 Psalms 68:25.
The significance of H5059 is demonstrated in its various applications, showing music's power in the spiritual realm.
- Spiritual Influence: Music is shown to have a direct effect on the spiritual atmosphere. David's playing H5059 was the means by which an evil spirit would depart from Saul, bringing him refreshment and wellness 1 Samuel 16:23.
- Prophetic Channel: The act of making music could serve as a conduit for divine communication. A minstrel was brought to play H5059 specifically so that the hand of the Lord would come upon Elisha, enabling him to prophesy 2 Kings 3:15.
- Integral to Worship: The word is a key component in calls to worship. It is not enough to simply make a noise; the command is to play skillfully, indicating a thoughtful and excellent offering of praise to God Psalms 33:3.
In summary, H5059 is far more than a simple term for playing an instrument. It represents a spiritually significant action within the scriptures. From its role in soothing a troubled king and facilitating prophecy to its place in the formal worship of Israel, nâgan illustrates the biblical understanding of music as a powerful tool that can influence the soul, connect humanity to the divine, and offer praise to God.
TRV