lemma פִּסַנְטֵרִין first vowel, corrected to פְּסַנְטֵרִין; (Aramaic) or פְּסַנְתֵּרִין; a transliteration of the Greek,; psalterion; a lyre; psaltery.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **pᵉçanṭêrîyn**, represented by `{{H6460}}`, is a transliteration of the Greek word *psalterion*. It refers to a musical instrument, specifically a **lyre** or **psaltery**. This term appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H6460}}` is consistently listed as one of several instruments in King Nebuchadnezzar's royal orchestra. The sound of the **psaltery**, along with other instruments, served as a signal for all people to fall down and worship a golden image the king had erected. This command is established in Nebuchadnezzar's decree [[Daniel 3:5]], repeated when the people obey [[Daniel 3:7]], cited again when the decree is recounted [[Daniel 3:10]], and finally referenced in the ultimatum given to those who refused to bow [[Daniel 3:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The **psaltery** is always mentioned within a specific group of instruments that form a larger ensemble. These related terms further define the musical context of the narrative:
* `{{H7162}}` **qeren** (cornet): A horn used for its sound, listed as part of the orchestra in Nebuchadnezzar's decree [[Daniel 3:15]].
* `{{H4953}}` **mashrôwqîy** (flute): A musical pipe, named alongside the psaltery as part of the call to worship [[Daniel 3:7]].
* `{{H7030}}` **qîythârôç** (harp): Another instrument of Greek origin described as a lyre, always appearing with the psaltery [[Daniel 3:5]].
* `{{H5443}}` **çabbᵉkâʼ** (sackbut): A lyre-like instrument that contributed to the sound signaling worship of the image [[Daniel 3:10]].
* `{{H5481}}` **çûwmᵉpôwnᵉyâh** (dulcimer): A bagpipe, also of Greek origin, that was part of the royal ensemble [[Daniel 3:5]].
* `{{H2170}}` **zᵉmâr** (musick): A general term for instrumental music, used to summarize the sound of the entire orchestra [[Daniel 3:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6460}}` is derived entirely from its role in the account of the fiery furnace. It is not an instrument of righteous worship but is instead used for a state-mandated command.
* **A Signal for Idolatry:** The sound of the **psaltery** and the accompanying orchestra was the official trigger for all peoples, nations, and languages to worship the golden image set up by Nebuchadnezzar [[Daniel 3:7]].
* **A Test of Faith:** Hearing the **psaltery** marked a moment of profound choice. Obeying the sound meant compromising one's faith, while refusing to worship led directly to the threat of being cast into a burning fiery furnace [[Daniel 3:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6460}}` is an Aramaic term for a **psaltery**, a stringed instrument of Greek origin. Its use in scripture is limited to a single, powerful narrative in Daniel 3. While a simple word for a musical instrument, it is contextually significant as part of the orchestra whose music served as the catalyst for a crucial test of allegiance, forcing a choice between the commands of a human king and the worship of the one true God.
TRV