Have you noticed? Some of our normal reasons for music have not turned up in the biblical record. A few passages mention music’s appeal. In the context of praise, there is mention of the “sweet” lyre (Psalm 81:2). Psalm 45 describes Israel’s king as dressed in perfumed robes and enjoying music: “From ivory palaces stringed instruments make you glad” (Psalm 45:8). But such references are rare. In the Scriptures, human pleasure itself never stands out as music’s great value in worship. Skill and artistry are involved. But this music is not so much about attracting music lovers or entertaining the masses or other advantages that our own experiences might suggest. Music may help singers to stay on tune and on beat. Music may affect mood and atmosphere. Yet, while our senses may wish to stress these things, the sacred text gives them no particular weight. Scripture is about the mysterious mind of God. There we learn that music means much more than the stirring of human sensations.
Like 2 Chronicles 5, the Psalms emphasize that this music is for God. All of the Psalms are poems, which double as songs or chants (2 Samuel 22:1-51 cf. 1 Kings 4:32). Scores of them call God’s people to praise and thank Him. About sixteen Psalms mention instruments, and some describe their purpose. As you read the samples below, notice the music’s direction. Where is it aimed or sent? To whom is it played?
Give thanks to the LORD with the lyre; make melody to Him with the harp of ten strings! Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. (Psalm 33:2-3)
Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises! Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody! With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the LORD! (Psalm 98:4-6)
Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre! (Psalm 147:7)
Let them praise His name with dancing, making melody to Him with tambourine and lyre! (Psalm 149:3)
Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with lute and harp! Praise Him with tambourine and dance; praise Him with strings and pipe! Praise Him with sounding cymbals; praise Him with loud clashing cymbals! (Psalm 150:3-5)
Humans are present, as those motivated to praise. But the real audience is God. “Sing to the LORD… make melody to our God on the lyre!” Songs and instruments alike send their music to God. In this sense music is something offered, like prayer, to God.