שַׂבְּכָא (sab.b.kah)
sab.b.kah
trigon
A:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-F
Word Overview
The noun sab.b.kah refers to a trigon, a triangular musical instrument described in the sources as having four strings and resembling a lyre. This Aramaic term appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, where it serves as one of several instruments listed in royal decrees demanding universal worship.
Its occurrence is limited to four verses, all situated within the narrative of Nebuchadnezzar’s golden statue (Daniel 3:5, 7, 10, 15). The text groups the sab.b.kah with the flute, harp, and lyre, creating a specific sonic backdrop for the king’s command. This rare word highlights the multicultural nature of the Babylonian court, blending local terminology with the grand spectacle of imperial power.
Translators typically render it "trigon" or simply "musical instrument," acknowledging its distinct shape and function. The specificity of the term underscores the detailed attention to the scene’s auditory elements, marking the moment when music becomes a tool of coercion rather than praise.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sab.b.kah appears in Daniel’s account of Nebuchadnezzar’s golden statue, listing one instrument among many that signaled a mandatory act of worship. In this context, music was not an invitation to joy but a tool of coercion, demanding uniformity under threat of fire. This stark contrast reminds us that true worship cannot be forced by external pressure or political decree.
For your faith, this passage highlights the difference between compliance and conviction. While the world may demand outward conformity to its rhythms, your heart is called to a different kind of loyalty. God sees the courage of those who refuse to bow when everyone else does, trusting that His presence is more significant than any earthly power.
When you face moments where cultural or social pressure pulls you away from your principles, remember Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Their refusal was not rebellion but fidelity. You are invited to stand firm in your convictions, knowing that God’s approval outweighs the fear of man.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- trigon4×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שַׂבְּכָא֙1×
- שַׂבְּכָ֤א1×
- שַׂבְּכָ֡א1×
- סַבְּכָ֤א1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 3:5
that whenever you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all kinds of music, you fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king has set up.
This verse establishes the trigon as part of the auditory signal that triggers the king's command to worship, setting the stage for the conflict.
-
Daniel 3:10
You, O king, have made a decree that every man who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all kinds of music shall fall down and worship the golden image;
Here the instrument is cited in the specific decree that defines the penalty for non-compliance, linking the sound directly to the threat of death.
-
Daniel 3:15
Now if you are ready whenever you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all kinds of music to fall down and worship the image which I have made, good; but if you don’t worship, you shall be cast the same hour into the middle of a burning fiery furnace. Who is that god who will deliver you out of my hands?”
Nebuchadnezzar challenges the Hebrews by referencing the full ensemble including this instrument, highlighting the totality of the demand for submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word sab.b.kah mean?
Why is this word significant in Daniel 3?
How is sab.b.kah different from other musical terms in Daniel?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 1 books)
Daniel 4 verses
that whenever you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all kinds of music, you fall down…
Daniel 3:7Therefore at that time, when all the peoples heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all…
Daniel 3:10You, O king, have made a decree that every man who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and…
Daniel 3:15Now if you are ready whenever you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all kinds of music…