Bible Dictionaries
Harp

American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

Hebrew KINNOR, the most ancient and common stringed instrument of the Jews, more properly translated lyre. It was light and portable, and was used on joyful occasions, whether sacred or not. It was invented by Jubal, Genesis 4:21 31:27 1 Chronicles 16:5 25:1-5 Psalm 81:2 . David was a proficient in its use, 1 Samuel 16:16,23 18:10 . The instrument most nearly resembling our harp was the Hebrew NEBEL, translated, psaltery in the Old Testament, Psalm 57:8 81:2 92:3 108:2 . It had a general triangular shape, and seven to twelve strings, Psalm 33:2 144:9 . It was played with the hand or with a short iron rod or plectrum according to its size. The Jews had other stringed instruments, like the guitar and lute, but little can be accurately determined respecting their form, etc. See MUSIC .

Bibliography Information
Rand, W. W. Entry for 'Harp'. American Tract Society Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/​dictionaries/​eng/​ats/​h/harp.html. 1859.