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Psalms 92:3

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Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound.

Upon an instrument of ten strings {H6218}, and upon the psaltery {H5035}; upon the harp {H3658} with a solemn sound {H1902}.

to the music of a ten-stringed [harp] and a lute, with the melody sounding on a lyre.

with the ten-stringed harp and the melody of the lyre.

With an instrument of ten strings, and with the psaltery; With a solemn sound upon the harp.

Commentary

This verse from Psalm 92 describes the instruments used in offering praise and worship to God, emphasizing the richness and variety involved in celebrating the Lord's goodness.

Context

Psalm 92 is uniquely titled "A Psalm or Song for the sabbath day." This suggests it was intended for communal worship on the day of rest, highlighting themes of giving thanks to the Lord, singing praises to His name, and proclaiming His lovingkindness and faithfulness (Psalm 92:1-2). Verse 3 specifically details the musical accompaniment suitable for such joyful and solemn worship.

Instruments of Praise

The verse mentions three types of musical expression:

  • An instrument of ten strings: Likely referring to a type of lute or harp, specifically noted for having ten strings, suggesting a particular range or quality of sound.
  • The psaltery: Another stringed instrument, often depicted as a zither or harp, frequently mentioned in connection with worship in the Psalms.
  • The harp with a solemn sound: The harp (Hebrew: kinnor) was a primary instrument in Israelite worship. The phrase "with a solemn sound" (Hebrew: higgaion) can mean a murmuring sound, a meditation, or a solemn melody, indicating that not all praise was purely exuberant; it also included contemplative or reverent aspects.

Key Themes

  • Variety in Worship: The use of multiple instruments signifies that praise is not limited to one form but can be expressed through diverse means.
  • Skill and Quality: Mentioning specific instruments suggests using skillful and prepared music in service to God.
  • Joyful and Solemn Praise: The combination of instruments capable of both lively tunes and solemn sounds reflects the full spectrum of appropriate responses in worship, from rejoicing in God's works to meditating on His nature.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "instrument of ten strings" is nevel asor (נבל עשור), distinguishing it from other lyres or harps. The "psaltery" is often translated from nevel (נבל), and the "harp" from kinnor (כינור). The term higgaion (הגיון), translated "solemn sound," can also imply a deep, resonant tone or a meditative musical interlude, showing the depth intended in this worship.

Commentary

Psalm 92:3 paints a picture of vibrant, yet thoughtful, musical worship. The specific mention of these instruments isn't just a list; it suggests a full and rich soundscape dedicated to God. Using an array of instruments allowed for complex melodies and harmonies, suitable for proclaiming the greatness and faithfulness of the Lord, particularly in the context of the Sabbath rest and reflection.

Practical Application

This verse encourages believers today to use their best and varied means to offer a sacrifice of praise to God. Whether through singing, playing instruments, or other creative expressions, our worship should be intentional, skillful, and encompass the full range of our relationship with God – from exuberant joy in His works to solemn meditation on His character. It reminds us that music plays a vital role in corporate and personal devotion.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 33:2 (7 votes)

    Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery [and] an instrument of ten strings.

  • 2 Chronicles 23:5 (3 votes)

    And a third part [shall be] at the king's house; and a third part at the gate of the foundation: and all the people [shall be] in the courts of the house of the LORD.

  • Nehemiah 12:27 (3 votes)

    ¶ And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, [with] cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.

  • Psalms 68:25 (3 votes)

    The singers went before, the players on instruments [followed] after; among [them were] the damsels playing with timbrels.

  • 1 Chronicles 13:8 (3 votes)

    And David and all Israel played before God with all [their] might, and with singing, and with harps, and with psalteries, and with timbrels, and with cymbals, and with trumpets.

  • 1 Samuel 10:5 (2 votes)

    After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where [is] the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:

  • Psalms 9:16 (2 votes)

    The LORD is known [by] the judgment [which] he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.