### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term שְׁמִינִית (shᵉmîynîyth), Strong's number `{{H8067}}`, is derived from the root שְׁמוֹנֶה (shᵉmôneh, `{{H8083}}`), meaning "eight." It is the feminine form of שְׁמִינִי (shᵉmîynî, `{{H8066}}`), which means "eighth." In its biblical usage, שְׁמִינִית functions as a musical instruction or designation, most likely referring to a specific musical instrument or a particular musical setting. The predominant scholarly consensus suggests it denotes an "eight-stringed lyre" or a musical composition to be played "on the eighth," possibly indicating a lower octave or bass register. Its precise meaning remains a subject of scholarly discussion, but the connection to the number eight is undeniable, pointing towards either the number of strings on an instrument or the octaval context of the music.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term שְׁמִינִית (`{{H8067}}`) appears exclusively in the superscriptions of two Psalms:
* **[[Psalm 6:1]]**: "To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments; according to the Sheminith. A Psalm of David."
* **[[Psalm 12:1]]**: "To the choirmaster: according to the Sheminith. A Psalm of David."
In both instances, שְׁמִינִית functions as a directive to the "choirmaster" (לַמְנַצֵּחַ, *lamnatsêach*), indicating how the Psalm was to be performed musically.
In [[Psalm 6:1]], the phrase "with stringed instruments" (בִּנְגִינוֹת, *binginoth*) immediately precedes "according to the Sheminith." This juxtaposition strongly supports the interpretation of שְׁמִינִית as a type of stringed instrument, specifically an eight-stringed lyre, or a style of playing suited for such an instrument. Psalm 6 is a lament, a fervent plea for God's mercy amidst deep distress. The musical setting, perhaps a somber, lower-pitched accompaniment, would have enhanced the emotional depth of David's prayer.
Similarly, [[Psalm 12:1]] is also a Psalm of David, a lament appealing for divine intervention against the wicked and deceitful. The instruction "according to the Sheminith" here again suggests a specific musical arrangement intended to convey the gravity and earnestness of the psalm's content. The recurring appearance in Psalms of lament or petition underscores the role of music in expressing the full range of human emotion before God, from deep sorrow to urgent supplication.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is שְׁמִינִי (`{{H8066}}`), the masculine form of "eighth," which is used in contexts such as the "eighth day" of a festival or a ritual purification (e.g., [[Leviticus 9:1]], [[Leviticus 14:10]]). The numerical root שְׁמוֹנֶה (`{{H8083}}`), "eight," is foundational to understanding שְׁמִינִית.
Conceptually, שְׁמִינִית falls within the broader category of musical terminology in the biblical text, alongside terms like *nebel* (lyre or harp) and *kinnor* (lyre), which were prominent instruments in Israelite worship. The existence of such precise musical instructions in the Psalms' superscriptions highlights the sophistication and intentionality of ancient Israelite temple worship and liturgical practice. It also connects to the role of the "choirmaster" or "leader" (לַמְנַצֵּחַ), a figure responsible for the musical direction and performance of the sacred songs.
### Theological Significance
While שְׁמִינִית is primarily a technical musical term, its presence in the inspired Scriptures carries theological weight. It underscores the profound importance of music in the worship and spiritual life of ancient Israel. The meticulous attention to musical detail, evident in these superscriptions, suggests that worship was not a casual endeavor but a carefully orchestrated act of devotion and reverence. The use of specific instruments and musical settings was integral to the expression of praise, lament, and petition before God.
The "eighth" aspect, while primarily musical (e.g., eight strings, lower octave), also subtly connects to broader biblical themes associated with the number eight: new beginnings, resurrection (the eighth day as the first day of a new week), and completeness beyond the created seven. While not directly applied to שְׁמִינִית in the text, the choice of an "eight-stringed" instrument or "eighth" mode could subtly resonate with these deeper theological undercurrents of hope and renewal, particularly in the context of Psalms of lament that ultimately look to God for deliverance. Ultimately, שְׁמִינִית points to the intentionality and artistic excellence brought to the service of God, where even the technical aspects of musical performance are consecrated to divine glory.
### Summary
שְׁמִינִית (`{{H8067}}`) is a Hebrew term found in the superscriptions of [[Psalm 6:1]] and [[Psalm 12:1]]. Derived from the word for "eighth," it most likely refers to an eight-stringed lyre or a musical setting to be played in a lower octave or bass register. Its presence indicates a specific musical instruction for the choirmaster, reflecting the sophisticated and intentional nature of ancient Israelite worship. Though a technical term, שְׁמִינִית highlights the integral role of music and the pursuit of excellence in the expression of devotion, lament, and petition within the biblical tradition.
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