Engel
Engel
(Music of the most Ancient Nations, particularly of the Assyrians, Egyptians, and Hebrewes [1864]) observes that the Hebrews had various kinds of sacred and secular musical compositions, differing according to the occasions on which they were employed. These he enumerates as follows:
(a) Sacred music in divine worship, which was evidently regarded as of the highest importance;
(b) Sacred songs, and instrumental compositions, which were performed also in family circles (Isa 30:29; Jam 5:13);
(c) Military music, sacred as well as secular (2Ch 20:21; 2Ch 13:12; 2Ch 13:14);
(d) Triumphal songs (Exodus 15; Jud 1:5; 2Ch 20:27-28);
(e) Erotic songs, alluded to in title of Psalms 45, “A song of loves” (Isa 5:1);
(f) Music at bridal processions (Jer 7:34);
(g) Funeral songs (2Ch 35:25; Ecc 12:5; Amo 5:16; 2Sa 1:19);
(h) Popular secular songs, such as the songs of the vintners (Isa 16:10; Jer 48:33)
(i) Convivial songs (Isa 24:8-9; Luk 15:25; Isa 5:11-12; Amo 6:4-5);
(j) Performances of itinerant musicians (Isa 23:15-16; Ecc 9:4). For the literature of the subject, SEE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.