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.
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.
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.
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.
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