### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻûwgâb**, represented by `{{H5748}}`, is a term for a **reed-instrument of music**, or **organ**. Its definition suggests an origin from a root word meaning "breathing." It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, marking its significance in specific contexts of worship, culture, and human emotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The **ʻûwgâb** is first mentioned in the earliest accounts of human history, where Jubal is named the **father** `{{H1}}` of all who **handle** `{{H8610}}` the **harp** `{{H3658}}` and **organ** [[Genesis 4:21]]. This establishes it as a foundational instrument of human art and culture. It is associated with celebration and joy, as people **rejoice** `{{H8055}}` at the **sound** `{{H6963}}` of the **organ** [[Job 21:12]]. Conversely, in times of deep distress, its music is silenced; Job laments that his **organ** `{{H5748}}` is turned into the **voice** `{{H6963}}` of them that **weep** `{{H1058}}` [[Job 30:31]]. Finally, it holds a sacred role in worship, where believers are called to **praise** `{{H1984}}` God with the **organ** [[Psalms 150:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the musical and emotional context of the **ʻûwgâb**:
* `{{H3658}}` **kinnôwr** (harp): This stringed instrument is mentioned alongside the **organ** in three of its four appearances, establishing them as a pair of foundational instruments for both cultural expression and emotional articulation ([[Genesis 4:21]], [[Job 21:12]], [[Job 30:31]]).
* `{{H8596}}` **tôph** (timbrel): A percussion instrument often associated with joyous occasions, the timbrel appears with the **organ** in contexts of both praise and celebration ([[Job 21:12]], [[Psalms 150:4]]).
* `{{H1984}}` **hâlal** (praise): This word, meaning to celebrate or commend, defines the highest purpose of the **organ** as an instrument dedicated to the worship of God [[Psalms 150:4]].
### Theological Significance
The biblical mentions of `{{H5748}}` carry significant thematic weight.
* **A Foundational Art:** The instrument's inclusion in Genesis establishes music as an ancient and integral part of human civilization, with Jubal `{{H3106}}` being the forefather of those who play it [[Genesis 4:21]].
* **Expression of Joy and Sorrow:** The **organ** serves as a powerful symbol of the human emotional spectrum. Its sound is tied directly to rejoicing [[Job 21:12]], while its transformation into the sound of weeping illustrates a state of profound **mourning** `{{H60}}` and loss [[Job 30:31]].
* **An Instrument of Worship:** In the Psalms, the **organ** is elevated to a sacred purpose, explicitly listed among the instruments used to **praise** `{{H1984}}` the Lord, alongside the **timbrel** `{{H8596}}` and **dance** `{{H4234}}` [[Psalms 150:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5748}}` **ʻûwgâb** is far more than an archaic musical term. It is a symbol that spans the breadth of human experience, from the dawn of culture to the heights of worship. Though mentioned only a few times, its presence in Scripture marks the importance of music as an expression of celebration, a voice for sorrow, and a vital component of praising God.
TRV