Psalm 68 25

Psalm 68:25 kjv

The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels.

Psalm 68:25 nkjv

The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; Among them were the maidens playing timbrels.

Psalm 68:25 niv

In front are the singers, after them the musicians; with them are the young women playing the timbrels.

Psalm 68:25 esv

the singers in front, the musicians last, between them virgins playing tambourines:

Psalm 68:25 nlt

Singers are in front, musicians behind;
between them are young women playing tambourines.

Psalm 68 verses

Psalm 68 25 Meaning

Psalm 68:25 describes a celebratory and orderly procession toward God's sanctuary. It paints a vivid picture of communal worship, featuring various participants. The singers lead the way, setting the spiritual tone, followed by instrumentalists who provide the musical accompaniment. Among these groups, young women joyfully play timbrels, adding rhythmic praise and reinforcing the communal and celebratory nature of the event. This verse captures a moment of triumphant entry and heartfelt worship in the presence of God.

Psalm 68 25 Context

Psalm 68 is a majestic triumphal Psalm, often understood as celebrating God's victorious procession. It invokes images of God leading His people from Sinai (His initial revelation as Warrior-King) through the wilderness, conquering enemies, and establishing His dwelling place on Mount Zion. This processional movement culminates in the joyful ascent to God's sanctuary. Verse 25 specifically depicts the vibrant and orderly musical celebration accompanying this grand event, likely symbolizing the joyous bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, or a general depiction of worship as God's people enter His presence triumphantly. The historical and cultural context reflects Israel's understanding of God as a mighty warrior and king, whose presence among His people evokes awe, joy, and celebration through music and procession, directly contrasting with chaotic pagan rituals.

Psalm 68 25 Word analysis

• The singers went before (קִדְּמוּ שָׁרִים - kidd'mū sharīm):

  • קִדְּמוּ (kidd'mū): From the verb qadam, meaning "to go before," "to precede," or "to meet in advance." This emphasizes a leading, organized role, perhaps even "preparing the way." It denotes purposeful movement and precedence.
  • שָׁרִים (sharīm): Refers to "singers" or "choir members." Their leading position highlights the importance of vocal praise and lyrical declaration in worship.

• the players on instruments followed after (אַחַר נֹגְנִנֹּגְנִים - achar nōg'nīm):

  • אַחַר (achar): Means "after," "behind," indicating a sequential arrangement in the procession. This shows order and coordination in the worship act.
  • נֹגְנִים (nōg'nīm): Denotes "instrumentalists" or "those who play music." The root nagan often implies playing stringed instruments (like lyres or harps), though it can apply more broadly to musicians. Their role is to provide harmonic and rhythmic accompaniment, supporting the singers.

• among them were the damsels playing with timbrels (בְּתוֹךְ עֲלָמוֹת תּוֹפֵפוֹת - b'tokh alāmōt tōfefōt):

  • בְּתוֹךְ (b'tokh): Means "in the midst of" or "among." This signifies their active integration within the procession, not as bystanders but as participants.
  • עֲלָמוֹת (alāmōt): Plural of almah, meaning "young women" or "maidens." While sometimes implying virginity, here it specifically refers to young women active in public celebratory roles. Their inclusion emphasizes that all segments of the community partake in this joyous worship.
  • תּוֹפֵפוֹת (tōfefōt): From the verb tafaf, meaning "to beat on a timbrel." Timbrels (tof) are small hand-drums or tambourines, easily carried and used for rhythmic accompaniment, often associated with spontaneous dancing and exuberant celebration (e.g., Exod 15:20-21). Their specific musical contribution underscores joyful and unrestrained praise.

• Words-Group Analysis:

  • Order and Harmony: The "singers went before, the players on instruments followed after" depicts an organized and harmonized procession, indicating that worship is not chaotic but a structured, yet joyful, offering to God.
  • Communal and Inclusive Worship: The presence of "singers," "instrumentalists," and especially "damsels playing with timbrels" illustrates a diverse and comprehensive act of worship involving various roles and all segments of the community, emphasizing inclusivity and collective participation in God's triumph.

Psalm 68 25 Bonus section

This verse implicitly teaches about the nature of corporate worship in ancient Israel. It was a sensory experience: audibly glorious with songs and instruments, visually grand with an organized procession, and physically engaging with the women dancing with timbrels. The 'damsels' (almah) were often part of significant celebratory occasions, marking the importance of their role in collective exultation and embodying the deep joy and unreserved praise due to God's mighty acts. The structure described reflects an almost priestly order mixed with popular festive celebration, hinting at the fusion of sacred ritual and popular expression of devotion in ancient Israelite faith.

Psalm 68 25 Commentary

Psalm 68:25 encapsulates a dynamic image of exultant worship as God leads His people in triumph. The carefully structured procession, with singers at the forefront and instrumentalists following, reflects an organized and reverent approach to divine presence. The "damsels playing with timbrels" specifically brings a vibrant, uninhibited joy, reminding us of Miriam's dance of deliverance by the Red Sea (Exod 15). This specific detail highlights that worship is not solely formal or ritualistic but also involves spontaneous, physical expression of profound gladness. It testifies to a holistic celebration where music, movement, and voices unite in acknowledgment of God's victory and glory, emphasizing that His triumph evokes a communal, joyful response from His people, spanning all ages and genders. This verse calls believers to joyful and active participation in celebrating God's victorious presence among His people.