Psalm 150:5

Praise Him with clashing cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals.

Study Bible

Praise Him with clashing cymbals
Praise Him
The call to "praise" is a central theme throughout the Psalms, and here it is a command to glorify God with exuberance and joy. The Hebrew word for "praise" is "halal," which means to boast, celebrate, or commend. This word is the root of "Hallelujah," meaning "Praise the Lord." In the context of Psalm 150, it is a call to all creation to acknowledge God's greatness and majesty. The act of praising God is not just a verbal expression but a heartfelt acknowledgment of His sovereignty and goodness.

with clashing cymbals
The use of musical instruments in worship is a recurring theme in the Psalms, and "clashing cymbals" are mentioned specifically here. The Hebrew word for "cymbals" is "tseltselim," which refers to a percussion instrument that produces a loud, resonant sound. In ancient Israel, cymbals were used in temple worship to accompany singing and other instruments, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of praise. The "clashing" nature of the cymbals suggests a powerful, unrestrained expression of worship, emphasizing the grandeur and awe of God's presence. Historically, cymbals were part of the Levitical orchestra, as seen in 1 Chronicles 15:16, where David appointed Levites to play various instruments, including cymbals, to celebrate the Ark of the Covenant's return. This highlights the importance of music in worship and the use of all available means to glorify God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 150, traditionally attributed to King David, who is known for his musical talents and deep devotion to God.

2. Temple Worship
The setting for the use of musical instruments in worship, particularly in the Temple in Jerusalem, where music played a significant role in the liturgical practices.

3. Musicians and Levites
The individuals responsible for playing instruments and leading worship in the Temple, often from the tribe of Levi.

Teaching Points

The Role of Music in Worship
Music is a powerful tool for expressing praise and adoration to God. It engages the heart and mind, allowing worshippers to connect deeply with the divine.

Diversity in Worship
The use of different instruments, including cymbals, signifies the diversity and richness of worship. It encourages believers to embrace various forms of expression in their praise.

Joyful and Exuberant Praise
The call to use "clashing cymbals" and "resounding cymbals" suggests that worship should be vibrant and full of life. Believers are encouraged to worship God with enthusiasm and joy.

Community in Worship
The collective use of instruments in worship highlights the communal aspect of praising God. Worship is not just a personal act but a shared experience that unites believers.

Biblical Foundation for Worship Practices
Understanding the biblical basis for using instruments in worship can enrich the worship experience and provide a deeper appreciation for traditional and contemporary practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of cymbals in Psalm 150:5 reflect the overall theme of the Psalm, and what does it teach us about the nature of worship?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of "joyful noise" in our personal and corporate worship today?

3. How does the use of musical instruments in the Old Testament Temple worship inform our understanding of worship in the New Testament church?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our worship is both diverse and inclusive, reflecting the variety of expressions found in the Psalms?

5. How can understanding the historical and cultural context of Psalm 150 enhance our appreciation and practice of worship in our own faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 15:16
This passage describes David's organization of musicians and the use of various instruments, including cymbals, in worship, highlighting the importance of music in praising God.

2 Chronicles 5:13
This verse recounts the dedication of Solomon's Temple, where cymbals were used to praise God, demonstrating the continuity of musical worship from David's time.

Psalm 98:4-6
These verses emphasize making a joyful noise to the Lord with various instruments, reinforcing the theme of exuberant praise found in Psalm 150:5.