Confronting Idolatry of the Arts

What instruments were used in the Psalms? A few examples include the shofar (horn), kinnor (lyre), and timbrel (cymbals).

But where did these instruments come from?

They likely came from pagan Egypt.

After 400 years of enslavement in another land, one would naturally adopt elements of local culture. So let’s assume that these artistic tools, originally rooted in pagan traditions, were adapted for the worship of God.

How, then, did Israel confront idolatry?

The original audience of the Pentateuch lived surrounded by polytheism and idolatry.

Moses wrote Genesis 1–3 to address this context. While the people could still utilize instruments of pagan origin, they were called to attribute all power and glory exclusively to the Lord.

Other gods were no longer given praise, power, or recognition as the source of life.

Because these instruments were crafted from God's creation.

So he’ll have them back now.

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