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Introduction
When we think of the word “minstrel,” we might conjure up images of medieval troubadours or wandering musicians. But did you know that the term “minstrel” actually appears in the Bible? In this article, we’ll explore the history of minstrels in biblical times and what the term meant in that context.
What is a Minstrel?
The word “minstrel” is derived from the Latin word “ministrare,” which means “to serve.” In biblical times, minstrels were musicians who served in the courts of kings and other important figures. They would play music and sing songs to entertain their patrons and to celebrate important events like weddings and victories in battle.
Minstrels in the Old Testament
The first mention of minstrels in the Bible comes from the book of Genesis, where we learn that Joseph was brought before Pharaoh and asked to interpret his dreams. After Joseph successfully interprets the dreams, Pharaoh rewards him by making him second in command over all of Egypt. As part of this reward, Pharaoh gives Joseph a wife and “gives him to wife Asenath the daughter of Potipherah priest of On. And Joseph went out over all the land of Egypt…and he had him chariots, and men to run before him, and he made him a ruler over all the land of Egypt” (Genesis 41:45-46).
The Music of the Minstrels
It’s not entirely clear what kind of music the minstrels of biblical times played, but it’s likely that they used a variety of instruments, including harps, lyres, and flutes. The book of Psalms, which is a collection of songs and poems from the Bible, contains many references to musical instruments and the importance of music in worship.
Minstrels in the New Testament
In the New Testament, we see minstrels being used in a similar way to how they were used in the Old Testament. In the book of Matthew, for example, we read about a ruler who comes to Jesus and asks him to heal his daughter, who is gravely ill. Jesus agrees to go with the man to heal his daughter, and “when Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, he said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn” (Matthew 9:23-24).
The Role of Minstrels in the Bible
Overall, the use of minstrels in the Bible seems to be focused on celebration and joy. Whether it’s the wedding feast of Cana or the coronation of a king, minstrels are there to provide music and entertainment for the occasion. In some cases, as with Joseph in the book of Genesis, being a minstrel was a sign of high status and favor with those in power.
Conclusion
While the term “minstrel” may not be one that we use very often in modern times, it’s clear that these musicians played an important role in biblical times. From the courts of kings to the weddings of common people, minstrels were there to provide music and entertainment, to celebrate important events, and to bring joy to those around them.
So the next time you come across the word “minstrel” in the Bible, take a moment to think about the role that these musicians played in the lives of the people of that time. And remember that, even today, music has the power to bring people together, to lift our spirits, and to help us celebrate the joys of life.
