Open AccessA Song of Sorrow and Praise
Author(s) -
Jonathan L Friedman
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
axis mundi
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1496-2578
DOI - 10.29173/axismundi81
Subject(s) - sorrow , praise , confession (law) , lament , singing , literature , philosophy , argument (complex analysis) , tone (literature) , hymn , musical , theology , art , linguistics , history , biochemistry , chemistry , archaeology , management , economics
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.”