The answer is: 8

Psalm 150 - This psalm celebrates worship through music, listing eight instruments: trumpet, lute, harp, tambourine, strings, flute, cymbals, and loud cymbals. Each instrument symbolizes joy and praise to God. Interestingly, the use of music in worship echoes throughout Scripture, from David dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:14) to heavenly choirs (Revelation 5:8-9).

Psalm 150 is a wonderful crescendo of praise and sets the stage for the interconnectedness between music and worship throughout the Bible. The psalm celebrates an exhilarating array of eight instruments, painting a vivid picture of divine joy underscored by sound. The trumpet signals a call to worship, while the harp and lute evoke melodies of intimacy with the divine—a reminder that music transcends simple notes and rhythms, acting as a form of prayer and praise.

What’s truly fascinating is how this idea of musical worship threaded its way into authorship across different Biblical eras. King David, known not just as a slayer of giants but as a skilled musician and songwriter, is often depicted using music to soothe King Saul’s troubled spirit (1 Samuel 16:23). King David essentially laid the groundwork for a heritage of song and creativity, encouraging worshipers to revel in their connection with God.

The promise of musical joy doesn’t stop with the earthly realm. In Revelation, you can find images of a heavenly chorus where every nation and tribe participates in worship—a reflection of the same spirit of praise that Psalm 150 calls for! Have you ever wondered about the origins of instruments? Many may have roots stretching back eras before the psalm was penned, connecting cultures through rhythm and hymns. So not only does Psalm 150 remind us of worshipful sounds, it also inscribes music as a universal tongue, resonating with all who have gathered in gratitude and joy!