Jump to: Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Alamoth" is derived from the Hebrew word "עֲלָמוֹת" (alamot), which is the plural form of "almah," meaning "young woman" or "maiden." In the context of the Bible, "Alamoth" is often associated with musical or liturgical terms, possibly indicating a specific style or pitch of music. Biblical References: The term "Alamoth" appears in the context of musical instructions in the Old Testament. It is specifically mentioned in two passages: 1. 1 Chronicles 15:20 : "Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah were to play the harps according to Alamoth." This verse is part of the account of King David's organization of the Levites for the transportation of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The mention of "Alamoth" here suggests a particular musical arrangement or tuning for the harps, possibly indicating a higher pitch or a melody suited for young women's voices. 2. Psalm 46:1 : The superscription of this psalm reads, "For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song." This psalm is a declaration of God's protection and strength, famously beginning with "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." The term "Alamoth" in the superscription likely serves as a musical direction, indicating the manner in which the psalm was to be performed, possibly by a choir of young women or in a high-pitched style. Interpretation and Usage: The exact meaning of "Alamoth" in these contexts is not definitively known, but it is generally understood to refer to a musical term. Some scholars suggest that it indicates a soprano or high-pitched voice, aligning with the meaning of "almah" as a young woman, who would typically have a higher vocal range. This interpretation is supported by the association of "Alamoth" with musical instruments like harps, which can produce higher-pitched sounds. In the broader context of biblical worship, the use of specific musical terms like "Alamoth" underscores the importance of music in the liturgical and ceremonial life of ancient Israel. Music was a vital component of worship, used to enhance the spiritual experience and convey theological truths. Theological Significance: The inclusion of musical terms such as "Alamoth" in the biblical text highlights the diversity and richness of worship practices in ancient Israel. It reflects the care and intentionality with which worship was conducted, emphasizing the role of music in expressing devotion and reverence to God. The use of specific musical instructions also points to the organized and communal nature of worship, where various groups and individuals contributed their talents to the glorification of God. In a broader theological sense, the mention of "Alamoth" serves as a reminder of the beauty and creativity inherent in worship, encouraging believers to offer their best in praise and adoration of the Almighty. Smith's Bible Dictionary Alamoth(virgins), (Psalms 46:1) title; (1 Chronicles 15:20) Some interpret it to mean a musical instrument, and others a melody. ATS Bible Dictionary AlamothA musical term, indicating probably music for female voices, Psalm 46:1; 1 Chronicles 15:20. Easton's Bible Dictionary Virgins, a musical term (1 Chronicles 15:20), denoting that the psalm which bears this inscription (Psalm 46) was to be sung by soprano or female voices. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ALAMOTHal'-a-moth. See MUSIC. Strong's Hebrew 5961. alamoth -- (soprano voices of) young women... 5960, 5961. alamoth. 5962 . (soprano voices of) young women. Transliteration: alamoth Phonetic Spelling: (al-aw-moth') Short Definition: alamoth. ... /hebrew/5961.htm - 6k Library Index of Subjects. The Poetical Books. Additional Notes. The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles). Thesaurus Alamoth (4 Occurrences)... voices. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ALAMOTH. al'-a-moth. See MUSIC. Multi-Version Concordance Alamoth (4 Occurrences). 1 ... /a/alamoth.htm - 8k Term (4 Occurrences) Ever-present (1 Occurrence) Musical (14 Occurrences) Al'amoth (1 Occurrence) Choirmaster (55 Occurrences) Musician (112 Occurrences) Music-maker (55 Occurrences) Benaiah (44 Occurrences) Korah (51 Occurrences) Resources To what do the various musical terms in the book of Psalms refer? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Alamoth (4 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 15:20 Psalms 45:17 Psalms 46:1 Psalms 49:1 Subtopics Related Terms |