The book of Revelation places the harps alongside the incense, making the one as symbolic as the other. Remember in the heavenly scene of Revelation 5:8 that the worshiping elders hold two items: harps and golden bowls of incense. A meaning is supplied for us, showing the use of symbolism. Remember also that the voice of Revelation 14:2 is “like the sound of harpists playing on their harps.”
Yes, we are looking at pictures. Like the law’s shadows, the pictures of Revelation relate to Christ. He is the “Lamb standing, as though it had been slain” (Revelation 5:6). He is the real sacrifice that pleases the Father. Because of His self-sacrifice, our prayers (pictured by incense) and our praises (pictured by harps) truly please the Father. Passing through Christ, they are the most beautiful music ever heard by God’s spiritual hearing. The very sweetness of harps makes them ideal symbols for the music that is infinitely better. “In the name of our Lord Jesus,” we now offer the best music of all—the spiritual “melody” of thankful hearts—that rises far beyond this earth to be heard with delight in Heaven itself.
…singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:19-20 cf. Colossians 3:16)