Bible Encyclopedias
Engel

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

(Music of the most Ancient Nations, particularly of the Assyrians, Egyptians, and Hebrewes [1864]) observes that the Hebrews had various kinds of sacred and secular musical compositions, differing according to the occasions on which they were employed. These he enumerates as follows:

(a) Sacred music in divine worship, which was evidently regarded as of the highest importance;

(b) Sacred songs, and instrumental compositions, which were performed also in family circles (Isaiah 30:29; James 5:13);

(c) Military music, sacred as well as secular (2 Chronicles 20:21; 2 Chronicles 13:12; 2 Chronicles 13:14);

(d) Triumphal songs (Exodus 15; Judges 1:5; 2 Chronicles 20:27-28);

(e) Erotic songs, alluded to in title of Psalms 45, "A song of loves" (Isaiah 5:1);

(f) Music at bridal processions (Jeremiah 7:34);

(g) Funeral songs (2 Chronicles 35:25; Ecclesiastes 12:5; Amos 5:16; 2 Samuel 1:19);

(h) Popular secular songs, such as the songs of the vintners (Isaiah 16:10; Jeremiah 48:33)

(i) Convivial songs (Isaiah 24:8-9; Luke 15:25; Isaiah 5:11-12; Amos 6:4-5);

(j) Performances of itinerant musicians (Isaiah 23:15-16; Ecclesiastes 9:4). For the literature of the subject, (See MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS).

Bibliography Information
McClintock, John. Strong, James. Entry for 'Engel'. Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature. https://www.studylight.org/​encyclopedias/​eng/​tce/​e/engel.html. Harper & Brothers. New York. 1870.