probably denominative from חָלִיל; a flute; (plural) Nehiloth.
Transliteration:nᵉchîylâh
Pronunciation:nekh-ee-law'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5155}}` (נְחִילָה, *nᵉchîylâh*) is defined as "probably denominative from `{{H2485}}` (חָלִיל); a flute; (plural) Nehiloth." Its core meaning is thus intimately connected to wind instruments, specifically the flute or pipe. The derivation from `{{H2485}}` (חָלִיל, *chaliyl*), which explicitly means "flute" or "pipe," strongly supports this understanding. The term's semantic range is narrow, primarily denoting either the instrument itself or, more likely in its biblical context, a musical direction related to such instruments. The plural form, "Nehiloth," as it appears in the biblical text, functions as a technical musical instruction rather than a simple plural of "flute."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5155}}` (נְחִילָה, *nᵉchîylâh*) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the superscription of Psalm 5:
* [[Psalm 5:1]]: "To the choirmaster: for Nehiloth. A Psalm of David."
In this singular occurrence, "Nehiloth" functions as a musical directive for the performance of Psalm 5. While its precise meaning remains a subject of scholarly debate, common interpretations include:
1. **A type of instrument:** It could specify that the psalm was to be played with flute accompaniment, or perhaps by a specific type of flute.
2. **A melody or tune:** It might indicate a particular tune or musical style associated with flute music, similar to how "Al-tashheth" (Psalm 57:1) or "Gittith" (Psalm 8:1) are understood.
3. **A group of musicians:** Less likely, but it could refer to a guild or group of musicians known for playing wind instruments.
Given the context of Psalm 5 – a prayer of lament and petition for deliverance from enemies, seeking God's guidance and protection – the musical instruction "Nehiloth" would have set the appropriate sonic atmosphere. Flutes, while often associated with joyous occasions, could also convey somber or contemplative moods, fitting the earnest and often distressed tone of the psalm.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H2485}}` (חָלִיל, *chaliyl*), from which `{{H5155}}` (נְחִילָה) is likely derived. `{{H2485}}` appears in several contexts:
* [[1 Samuel 10:5]]: Mentioned as an instrument played by a band of prophets, indicating its use in spiritual or ecstatic contexts.
* [[Isaiah 5:12]]: Associated with feasting and revelry, alongside harps and tambourines.
* [[Isaiah 30:29]]: Used in the context of joyful pilgrimage and celebration.
* [[Jeremiah 48:36]]: Described as an instrument of lament, with the sound of pipes mourning for Moab.
* [[1 Kings 1:40]]: Played during the joyous coronation of Solomon, signifying great rejoicing.
These occurrences of `{{H2485}}` demonstrate the flute's versatility in ancient Israelite culture, capable of expressing a wide range of emotions from prophetic ecstasy and festive joy to deep lament. This broad emotional range supports the idea that "Nehiloth" could set a contemplative or mournful tone for Psalm 5.
Furthermore, `{{H5155}}` belongs to the broader category of musical directives found in the superscriptions of many Psalms, such as "To the choirmaster" (לַמְנַצֵּחַ, *lamnaṣṣēaḥ*), "on stringed instruments" (בִּנְגִינוֹת, *bingînōt*), or specific tunes like "Jeduthun" or "Sheminith." These directives underscore the rich and complex musical tradition integral to Israelite worship.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of specific musical instructions like "Nehiloth" in the Psalms carries significant theological weight. It highlights:
* **Intentional Worship:** The detailed musical directives demonstrate that Israelite worship was not haphazard but carefully orchestrated. Music was a deliberate and integral component of communal and individual devotion, designed to enhance the spiritual experience.
* **Theology of Sound:** The choice of "Nehiloth" for Psalm 5 suggests an understanding that certain sounds or instrumental textures were uniquely suited to convey particular theological truths or emotional states. The mournful or reflective tones of a flute could deepen the worshiper's engagement with the psalm's themes of petition, trust, and seeking refuge in God amidst adversity.
* **Divine Inspiration and Human Artistry:** The presence of such technical terms implies a collaboration between divine inspiration and human artistry. God's revealed word was often presented through the highest forms of human creative expression, including sophisticated musical arrangements.
* **Reverence for the Text:** Even though the precise musical meaning of "Nehiloth" is lost to modern scholarship, its preservation in the sacred text emphasizes the reverence with which these ancient worship practices were regarded. It reminds us that the Psalms were not merely recited but performed, embodying a holistic approach to worship that engaged the senses and emotions.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H5155}}` (נְחִילָה, *nᵉchîylâh*), likely derived from `{{H2485}}` (חָלִיל, *chaliyl*) meaning "flute," is a unique and significant term found exclusively in the superscription of Psalm 5. As a technical musical directive, "Nehiloth" most probably refers to a specific type of wind instrument, a melody played with flutes, or a particular instrumental accompaniment intended for the psalm. Its singular occurrence in a psalm of earnest prayer for divine guidance and protection underscores the sophisticated and intentional role of music in Israelite worship. While the exact musical sound of "Nehiloth" remains a subject of scholarly discussion, its presence within the inspired text highlights the profound theological significance of structured musical artistry in conveying spiritual truths and facilitating reverent communion with God in ancient Israel. It speaks to a worship culture where sound and text were meticulously interwoven to create a profound experience of devotion.
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