### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çûwmᵉpôwnᵉyâh**, represented by `{{H5481}}`, is a term of Greek origin for a musical instrument translated as **dulcimer** or bagpipe. It is a rare word, appearing only **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H5481}}` is always listed as one of several instruments in the royal orchestra of Nebuchadnezzar. Its sound, in conjunction with the other instruments, serves as the signal for all people to fall down and worship a golden image set up by the king [[Daniel 3:5]]. This command is repeated in the king's decree [[Daniel 3:10]] and again as an ultimatum to the faithful who refused to worship the image [[Daniel 3:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The **dulcimer** `{{H5481}}` is never mentioned in isolation but is always part of a larger ensemble. Other instruments frequently listed alongside it include:
* `{{H7162}}` **qeren** (cornet): Defined as a horn, used either literally or for sound, it is part of the orchestra that signals the worship of the idol [[Daniel 3:5]].
* `{{H4953}}` **mashrôwqîy** (flute): An Aramaic term for a musical pipe, it is another of the instruments in Nebuchadnezzar's ensemble [[Daniel 3:10]].
* `{{H5443}}` **çabbᵉkâʼ** (sackbut): This Aramaic word refers to a lyre and is consistently included in the list of instruments for state-mandated worship [[Daniel 3:15]].
* `{{H2170}}` **zᵉmâr** (musick): This general term for instrumental music is used to summarize the entire orchestral sound, as in "all kinds of **musick**" [[Daniel 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5481}}` is tied directly to its role in the narrative of Daniel 3. It does not carry independent theological weight but is important for understanding the context of the story.
* **A Trigger for Idolatry:** The sound of the **dulcimer** and the other instruments is the explicit cue for a required act of idol worship, making it a key component in the test of faith [[Daniel 3:5]].
* **Symbol of Imperial Power:** The large, diverse orchestra, which includes instruments of Greek origin like `{{H5481}}`, illustrates the immense cultural and political power of Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom, used to enforce religious conformity [[Daniel 3:10]].
* **Part of an Overwhelming Spectacle:** The inclusion of the **dulcimer** within "all kinds of musick" shows the event was designed to be an overwhelming sensory experience, intended to compel the masses to obedience [[Daniel 3:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **çûwmᵉpôwnᵉyâh** `{{H5481}}` is a specific Aramaic term for a musical instrument, the **dulcimer**, found only in the story of Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. While a minor detail, its presence highlights the grand scale of the king's command and serves as the auditory signal for a pivotal moment of idolatry and defiance in the biblical account.
TRV