December 2004

ARTICLE TOOLS

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This newest entry into the All series on biblical topics is a relaxed yet informative look at the instruments, singing, songwriting, and music performance in the Bible.

Beginning with Creation ("The moment God — filled the skies with birds, music was born"), longtime All series editor Herbert Lockyer Jr. takes the reader through the Old Testament's music—the various string, wind, and percussion instruments, how they were made and used—but acknowledges that much of Hebrew music remains a mystery.

Lockyer explores the Psalms, as well as the songs of Isaiah and Solomon. Less predictably, he also illuminates songs from Moses, Deborah, and Hannah. He treats music in the New Testament and the birth of the modern hymn more briefly. Basic line drawings are interspersed throughout.

He adds the occasional mini-homily: Comparing Christ to the silver that formed early trumpets, for example, he notes, "He was not cast in any set mold, but was beaten work."

Also included are some random music essays from his well-known father, Herbert Lockyer Sr., as well as lists of biblical references to instruments and songs. A subjective inventory of great hymns of the church rounds out the volume.

Copyright © 2004 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

All the Music of the Bible is available from Christianbook.com and other book retailers.

More information is available from the publisher.

Other books from the "All series" is also available from the publisher.

For more music, our Music page and our sister publication, Christian Music Today both have reviews, interviews, and news from the Christian music world.