A Song of Sorrow and Praise

The Possible Role of Music in Jeremiah 20:7-13

Authors

  • Jonathan L Friedman Academy for Jewish Religion

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/axismundi81

Keywords:

prophet Jeremiah, Jeremiah, ancient Israelite music, music and psalms, music and identity

Abstract

This paper explores briefly the musical qualities of Jeremiah’s prophecy. It begins with an analysis of the confession presented in Jeremiah 20:7-13, focusing especially on its similarity to biblical psalms of lament. Following this is an argument for Jeremiah’s use of singing to intensify his impassioned words, and a look at the wider place of music in biblical priesthood and prophecy. Through this study, I hope to give support to theologian Oskar Söhngen’s claim: “Only the elevated language of tones is fitted for speaking with God.”

Author Biography

Jonathan L Friedman, Academy for Jewish Religion

Candidate for Ordination

Cantorial School Academy for Jewish Religion

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Published

2017-10-06

How to Cite

Friedman, J. L. (2017). A Song of Sorrow and Praise: The Possible Role of Music in Jeremiah 20:7-13. Axis Mundi, 6. https://doi.org/10.29173/axismundi81

Issue

Section

Articles