Bible Dictionary
Gittith
Gittith was a musical instrument or musical term appearing in the titles of Psalms 8, 81, and 84. Its precise meaning is uncertain; it may have been connected with Gath or with vintage celebrations.
Definition
Gittith is a musical term or stringed instrument named in the titles of Psalms 8, 81, and 84. Its exact meaning is uncertain.
Biblical Usage
The word occurs in the titles of three Psalms and is associated with their musical performance.
Historical Background
It has been understood either as a reference to an instrument connected with Gath or as a term associated with vintage festivities. The Septuagint connects it with winepresses, while the Targum explains it as a harp brought from Gath.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A stringed instrument of music. This word is found in the titles of Ps. 8, 81, 84. In these places the LXX. render the word by “on the wine-fats.” The Targum explains by “on the harp which David brought from Gath.” It is the only stringed instrument named in the titles of the Psalms.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
a musical instrument, by some supposed to have been used by the people of Gath, and by others to have been employed at the festivities of the vintage. Psal 8,81,84.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>git'-ith.</p><p>See MUSIC; PSALMS.</p>