Bible Dictionary
Cymbal, Cymbals
Cymbals were percussion instruments made of metal plates struck together. They were used in worship, public celebration, military settings, and musical praise.
Definition
A cymbal was a percussion instrument made of hard metal plates struck together. Smaller cymbals produced a loud noise, while larger plates produced high-sounding accompaniment.
Biblical Usage
Cymbals were used in temple music, military settings, and by Hebrew women accompanying national dances. Psalm 150 distinguishes loud and high-sounding cymbals.
Historical Background
The instruments consisted of paired metal plates, held one in each hand; both types remained common in the East.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
a pecussive musical instrument. Two kinds of cymbals are mentioned in (Psalms 150:5) “loud cymbals” or castagnettes, and “high-sounding cymbals.” The former consisted of our small plates of brass or of some other hard metal; two plates were attached to each hand of the performer, and were struck together to produce a great noise. The latter consisted of two larger plates, on held in each hand and struck together as an accompaniment to other instruments. Cymbals were used not only in the temple but for military purposes, and also by Hebrew women as a musical accompaniment to their national dances. Both kinds of cymbals are still common in the East.