2 Samuel 6:5 - Ellicott's Commentary On The Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Played. — This word means dancing accompanied by music. (See 1 Samuel 18:7; 1 Samuel 21:11; 1 Chronicles 13:8; 1 Chronicles 15:29, &c.)

On all manner of instruments made of fir wood. — Instead of this strange expression, the parallel passage in 1 Chronicles 13:8 has “with all their might and with songs.” The difference between the two is very slight in the Hebrew, and it is generally thought that the latter is the correct reading. The variation, however, mast have been ancient, since the LXX. combines the two.

Cornets. — This word occurs only here, and is thought from its etymology to mean some kind of metal instrument with bells or rings, which gave forth its sound on being shaken. The Vulg. translates sistra. Instead of it Chronicles has “trumpets.”

2 Samuel 6:5

5 And David and all the house of Israel played before the LORD on all manner of instruments made of fir wood, even on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on cymbals.