שְׁמִינִית (she.mi.nit)
she.mi.nit
Sheminith
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew word sheminith appears only once in the Bible, in 1 Chronicles 15:21. It describes the instruments used by the Levites during the transport of the Ark to Jerusalem. The term is an adjective derived from the root for "eight," functioning as a noun here to specify the type of musical accompaniment.
Scholars generally understand sheminith in one of two ways: either as an eight-stringed instrument or as a musical notation indicating an octave lower than the standard pitch. This distinction reflects the ancient practice of using specific tuning or string configurations to create deeper, more resonant tones for solemn processions. The word captures a precise technical detail about how worship was performed in the temple.
Its rarity makes it a unique snapshot of liturgical music in ancient Israel. By specifying this particular instrument or pitch, the text highlights the care taken to align the musical expression with the sacredness of the moment. The term reminds readers that biblical worship involved specific artistic choices designed to enhance the spiritual atmosphere.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sheminith appears just once in Scripture, tucked into a list of musicians transporting the Ark of the Covenant. It likely refers to an instrument with eight strings or a specific lower pitch used for solemn worship. This rare detail shows that ancient Israelites cared deeply about how they expressed reverence through music.
For your faith life, this suggests that worship is not just about the heart's attitude but also about the beauty and effort we put into it. Whether you play an instrument or simply sing along, taking time to prepare your voice or tool for praise honors God. It reminds us that even technical details in Scripture point to a God who delights in our wholehearted devotion.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ sheminith1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/שְּׁמִינִ֖ית1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 15:21
and Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps tuned to the eight-stringed lyre, to lead.
This verse identifies the specific musical accompaniment used by Levites to lead the procession, highlighting the care taken in arranging worship for the Ark's return.