Definition: And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren [to be] the singers with instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 15:16. It’s a really interesting passage about how David wanted to create a musical group for his people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: David was wanting to have musicians – singers who played instruments like harps, cymbals, and maybe even drums – to celebrate and praise God with music. He wanted them to sing with joy and enthusiasm. Let’s unpack it a bit: “And David spake…” : This means David was speaking or addressing someone. “…to the chief of the Levites” : He was talking to a leader of the musicians, probably one of the most experienced and respected singers in Israel. “…to appoint their brethren [to be]…” : This is key! “Brothers” means members of the Levite group – they were already dedicated to music and praising God. "...singing with instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals..." : This lists what kind of musical instruments he wanted them to use. "Musick" is a fancy word for music, and these specific instruments – harps, cymbals, and maybe drums – were considered particularly beautiful and appropriate for praising God. "...sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy." : This is the most important part! He wanted them to sing with joy . It wasn’t just about playing the music; it was about expressing their praise and devotion to God through song. What's the big takeaway? This verse shows David’s priorities were: Worship: He wanted to express his deep love and gratitude to God through music. Celebration: Music was a way to celebrate God’s presence and blessings. Community: He valued having musicians as part of the people, creating a shared experience of worship. In short, it describes a thoughtful plan for a musical group that would be dedicated to praising God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in the context of David’s reign?