(The meaning is obscure. But its signification where it occurs elsewhere than in the titles of Psalms is equivalent to the English word "instruction," or to become wise by instruction; hence, Ps 47:7: "Sing ye praises with understanding.")
(Authorities, ancient and modern, differ as to the probable signification. Gesenius and De Wette interpret it, "with the voice of virgins, by boys." Others derive the word from a different Hebrew root, and interpret it as indicating that the Psalm was a funeral ode.)
(It seems to indicate, according to Gesenius, that when this Psalm was sung it was to be accompanied by wind instruments.)
SELAH
(This term appears frequently in the Psalms. Its use is not known. Possibly it signified a pause in the vocal music while an instrumental interlude or finale was rendered.)
And its plural, SHIGIONOTH, in the title of Habakkuk 3:1
(Supposed to be a musical term to guide in rendering the song. At the close of the chapter, the author refers the ode "to the chief musician, on my stringed instruments." The term may suggest the movement in interpreting the music set to it.)
(Seems to indicate the manner in which these Psalms were to be rendered. Kimchi, Tremellius, and Eichhorn render it "hexachorda," that is, that in singing these Psalms instruments of six strings were to accompany.)
[T] indicates this entry was also found in Torrey's Topical Textbook [E] indicates this entry was also found in Easton's Bible Dictionary [S] indicates this entry was also found in Smith's Bible Dictionary Bibliography InformationNave, Orville J. "Entry for 'Music'". "Nave's Topical Bible". . 1896.
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