The Hebrew word tsᵉlâtsal, represented by H6767, is derived from a root meaning to clatter or rattle. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition is broad, encompassing the whirring of wings, a cricket or locust, a harpoon or spear, and a clanging cymbal, reflecting a core idea of a sharp, resounding sound or object.
In scripture, the use of H6767 varies widely depending on the context. It is most frequently translated as cymbals, a key instrument in expressions of worship and praise before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:5, Psalms 150:5). In stark contrast, it is used to denote the locust that will consume the trees and fruit of the land as part of a divine curse Deuteronomy 28:42. It also appears as a weapon, translated as fish spears in the description of a formidable beast Job 41:7, and metaphorically as shadowing, alluding to the whirring of wings Isaiah 18:1.
Several related words help to frame the contexts in which H6767 is found:
- H3658 kinnôwr (harp): Defined as "from a unused root meaning to twang; a harp," this instrument is frequently mentioned alongside cymbals in acts of worship and celebration 2 Samuel 6:5.
- H3423 yârash (consume): This root word means "to occupy... by implication, to seize... to expel, to impoverish, to ruin; cast out, consume, destroy...". It describes the action performed by the locust H6767 upon the land Deuteronomy 28:42.
- H8643 tᵉrûwʻâh (high sounding): Meaning "clamor, i.e. acclamation of joy or a battle-cry... shout(-ing), (high, joyful) sound(-ing)," this term is used to describe the character of the cymbals in worship Psalms 150:5.
The theological applications of H6767 are twofold, highlighting themes of both praise and judgment.
- Joyful Worship: As cymbals, the word represents the loud, resounding praise due to God. It is part of the full orchestra of worship that David brings before the ark and is commanded in the final Psalm of praise (2 Samuel 6:5, Psalms 150:5).
- Divine Judgment: As the locust, the word serves as an agent of God's covenantal curse. Its "whirring" sound becomes a sign of impending agricultural destruction for disobedience Deuteronomy 28:42.
- Descriptive Power: The word's use as shadowing (whirring) wings Isaiah 18:1 and as a spear Job 41:7 demonstrates its role in creating powerful, sensory imagery to describe both natural forces and human implements.
In summary, H6767 is a remarkably versatile word rooted in the concept of a clattering or rattling sound. It can signify the heights of sacred joy as a cymbal in worship or the depths of divine judgment as a consuming locust. Its varied applications, from musical instruments to weapons and insects, illustrate how a single Hebrew term can carry distinct and powerful meanings across the breadth of scripture.
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