Bible Dictionary
Shoshannim
Shoshannim, meaning “lilies,” is a musical direction in the titles of Psalms 45 and 69. It probably identified a melody or musical setting for the temple singers.
Definition
Shoshannim means “lilies” and is a musical direction in the titles of Psalms 45 and 69. It may refer to a melody or to a musical instrument, perhaps one shaped like a lily; some have understood it as an instrument with six strings.
Biblical Usage
The phrase “upon Shoshannim” directs the leader of the temple choir concerning the manner or melody in which the psalms were to be sung. Its precise musical reference is uncertain.
Historical Background
The term is associated with the musical practice of the temple choir. The supplied material also notes that Shoshannim-eduth occurs in Psalm 80.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Lilies, the name of some musical instrument, probably like a lily in shape (Ps. 45; 69, title). Some think that an instrument of six strings is meant.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(lilies). “To the chief musician upon Shoshannim” is a musical direction to the leader of the temple choir which occurs in (Psalms 45:1; 69:1) and most probably indicates the melody “after” or “in the manner of” (Authorized Version upon”) which the psalms were to be sung. Shoshannim-eduth occurs in the same way in the title of (Psalms 80:1) ... As the words now stand they signify “lilies, a testimony,” and the two are separated by a large distinctive accent. In themselves they have no meaning in the present text, and must therefore be regarded as probably a fragment of the beginning of an older psalm with which the choir were familiar.