or (the original form) שׁוּר; (1 Samuel 18:6), a primitive root (rather identical with שׁוּר through the idea of strolling minstrelsy); to sing; behold (by mistake for שׁוּר), sing(-er, -ing man, -ing woman).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shîyr**, represented by `{{H7891}}`, is a primitive root that means **to sing**. It appears 87 times across 79 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe the act of singing and also refers to the individuals who perform this role, such as a **singer**, **singing man**, or **singing woman** [[2 Samuel 19:35]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7891}}` is used in various contexts, from spontaneous celebration to organized worship. Following the miraculous deliverance at the sea, Moses and the Israelites **sang** a song to the LORD [[Exodus 15:1]]. The Psalms frequently call for singing to God, as seen in the command to "**sing** unto the LORD a new song" [[Psalms 96:1]]. The word also designates an official role within temple worship, where David appointed Levites to be **singers** with instruments [[1 Chronicles 15:16]], and these appointed singers, such as the sons of Asaph, were a key part of the return from exile [[Ezra 2:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of singing and musical praise:
* `{{H7892}}` **shîyr** (a song): This is the noun form derived directly from the verb. It is the object of the action, as when the command is given to **sing** `{{H7891}}` a new **song** `{{H7892}}` unto the LORD [[Psalms 98:1]].
* `{{H2167}}` **zâmar** (sing praises): This word often appears alongside `{{H7891}}` and refers more specifically to making music and celebrating in song, often with instrumental accompaniment. David declares he will **sing** `{{H7891}}` and **give praise** `{{H2167}}` with his glory [[Psalms 108:1]].
* `{{H1984}}` **hâlal** (to praise, celebrate): This term signifies celebration and making a show of praise. **Singers** `{{H7891}}` were appointed to **praise** `{{H1984}}` the beauty of holiness, connecting the act of singing directly to the purpose of celebration [[2 Chronicles 20:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7891}}` is demonstrated in its function as a primary mode of worship and testimony.
* **Response to Deliverance:** Singing is frequently the natural human response to God's mighty acts of salvation. After God "triumphed gloriously," the people **sang** [[Exodus 15:1]], and Jeremiah calls for all to **sing** unto the LORD, "for he hath delivered the soul of the poor" [[Jeremiah 20:13]].
* **Corporate Worship and Proclamation:** The establishment of official **singers** `{{H7891}}` among the Levites, such as Heman, Asaph, and Jeduthun, institutionalized singing as a core element of worship [[2 Chronicles 35:15]]. This act was a public proclamation of God's character, including His power and His mercy `{{H2617}}` [[Psalms 59:16]].
* **Commanded Joy:** The repeated command to "**sing** unto the LORD" establishes singing not merely as an emotional outlet but as a required expression of joy and praise directed toward God from all the earth ([[Psalms 96:1]], [[Psalms 149:1]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7891}}` defines a vital biblical practice. It is far more than a simple verb for making music; it is an act of praise, a response to God's deliverance, and a central pillar of corporate worship. From the spontaneous **song** of Moses at the sea [[Exodus 15:1]] to the organized choirs of the temple [[Nehemiah 12:46]], **shîyr** illustrates a fundamental way that God's people are called to proclaim His glory and mercy.
TRV