Behind | Music in Warfare and Worship

As you might expect, music was a natural part of life and work in ancient Egypt. There were amateur musicians who played on informal occasions.

This funeral procession shows musicians who may have been hired for the occasion.

This model of a harpist was designed to entertain a deceased dwarf in the afterlife.

Temple musicians performed on behalf of particular deities and often served as chantresses. Professional musicians also served in the royal courts. The chantress shown here is holding a sistrum instrument. 

This tomb painting from the Chapel of Sebekhotep depicts dancers presenting African products to the king. A victory dance was an important way to offer public and even cosmic praise for a military achievement.

Perhaps the song of triumph in Exodus 15 strikes you as overly triumphalist. Let’s take a look into the role of music in ancient Israel to get some perspective. You may be surprised to see a link between warfare and worship that will continue throughout the storyline of the Bible.