Did you know that about a tenth of the Bible is written in the form of songs? The foremost examples are the Psalms, the Song of Solomon, and Lamentations. Understandably, the majority of the approximately three hundred references to song relate to the worship of God. Jehovah is my strength . . . , and with my song I shall laud him, wrote Israelite King David, a gifted musician and composer.—Psalm 28:7.

In fact, David organized 4,000 men who belonged to the tribe of Levi to serve as musicians and singers in Jerusalem. Of these, 288 were trained in song to Jehovah, all experts. (1 Chronicles 23:4, 5; 25:7) No doubt these singers practiced assiduously. Indeed, music was so important to the worship of God that singers were relieved of other temple duties in order to concentrate on their profession.—1 Chronicles 9:33.

The night before Jesus died, he and his apostles sang praises to God, likely Psalms 113 to 118. By Jesus time, these psalms—termed Hallel Psalms—were sung during the Passover celebration. (Matthew 26:26-30) The designation Hallel Psalms refers to their repeated use of the exclamation Hallelujah! which means Praise Jah! Jah is a shortened, poetic form of Jehovah, the name of the Most High God.—Psalm 83:18.

Singing also became a part of Christian worship. The book The History of Music states: Singing in public and private worship was a matter of course for the early Christians. For Jewish converts this was a continuance of synagogue customs . . . In addition to the Hebrew Psalms . . . , the new faith tended constantly to produce new hymns. Today, too, Christian Witnesses of Jehovah delight in praising him in song, both privately and at their Christian meetings.

Because music enables us to express virtually every emotion and because it can have such a powerful influence on heart, mind, and body, we should accord this perfect present . . . from above the deepest respect. (James 1:17) Yes, may we use it both generously and wisely. (less info)