Overview
The psaltery (also spelled psalterion) was a harp-like stringed instrument prominently featured in Old Testament worship. Used extensively in the tabernacle and temple services, the psaltery accompanied singing and was played by skilled musicians appointed for priestly duties. Its name is etymologically connected to the book of Psalms, reflecting its role in musical praise to God.
Key Scriptures
"Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with a loud shout" (Psalm 33:3, ESV). "Awake, my soul! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn" (Psalm 57:8, ESV). David and the leaders appointed singers "to lift up their voices in praise" while others played psalteries and harps (1 Chronicles 25:1, ESV).
Application
Consider how worshiping God with intentional excellence in music—whether through instruments or voice—reflects reverence for His glory and invites deeper communion with Him in corporate and private devotion.