Singing praises to God takes on a deep, multi-sensory dimension when joined by instrumental music. The blend of stringed instruments and the human voice creates a perfect harmony that expresses not only earthly joy but the perfection of creation and hope for the future. At the center of this musical praise is an instrument specifically known for its ten strings. Alongside it is another stringed instrument, which some suggest held more strings than a standard harp [ביאור שטיינזלץ] and was shaped somewhat like a pouch used for holding liquids [מאירי].
The nature of the sound produced during this praise is understood in a few ways. One perspective views it as the sweetness of the song itself—a special, pleasant melody played directly on the harp [רד״ק, אבן עזרא, מאירי, ביאור שטיינזלץ], with some even suggesting it refers to an entirely separate, standalone instrument [אבן עזרא]. Alternatively, others explain that this sound refers to human speech. In this view, it is the vocal singing that accompanies the harp, meant to sweeten and beautify the instrumental music [מצודת ציון, מצודת דוד].
Beyond the physical sound, playing these instruments carries a wide spiritual meaning. It expresses an overflow of pure joy in serving God [מאירי]. This music is far more than a simple human activity; it parallels the harmony of the entire universe. The very movements required to play the instruments reflect the grand order of the celestial spheres and cosmic systems [מלבי״ם].
The ten-stringed instrument, in particular, holds a deeper secret of spiritual repair and redemption. While the harps played in the Temple traditionally had seven strings, the ten-stringed harp symbolizes the ultimate, future perfection of the Messianic era and the World to Come [חומת אנך]. This specific type of music is deeply connected to King David, who would rise during the night to sing, thank God for the past, and pray for the future. Through his midnight praise, he helped repair the spiritual flaws of humanity, preparing the world for complete redemption [אלשיך]. Ultimately, the pleasant melody heard in the present is more than just a beautiful sound; it serves as a hint to the future reward waiting for the righteous in a fully healed world [תורה תמימה].