Harp in Biblical History

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Schaff's Bible Dictionary

Definitions in Biblical History
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What is a Harp?
HARP
, a musical instrument invented by Jubal, and used by the Jews in seasons of thanksgiving to God, mirth, and joy. Gen 4:21; Gen 31:27; Ps 81:2; Isa 24:8. The instrument suggested any other thought than mourning and sorrow. In the hour of captivity the harp is hung upon the willows, Ps 137:2. David was particularly skilful in the use of it, 1 Sam 16:16,1 Sam 16:23. See Psaltery. The harp was played with the fingers, 1 Sam 16:23, but perhaps also with a; key, as Josephus suggests. The same Egyptian Harp. author ascribes ten strings to the harp, which would lead us to infer its identity with the "instrument of ten strings," Ps 92:3. Sometimes it had only eight strings, and was called "the harp on the Sheminith." 1 Chr 15:21; Ps 6:12, title. Harps were of different sizes, for some played on them while walking, 1 Sam 10:5, David played before Saul. 1 Sam 16:23; 1 Sam 18:10. There are different accounts of the shape of the harp. The preceding cut is found represented on Egyptian monuments.

Bibliography Information
Schaff, Philip, Dr. "Biblical Definition for 'harp' in Schaffs Bible Dictionary".
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