Dancing

Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia

(Matt. 11:17; Mark 6:22)—rhythmic bodily movement used in biblical lands to express joy, victory, worship, or celebration. Miriam and the women answered the deliverance at the sea with timbrels and dancing (Exod. 15:20); women greeted Saul and David after victory with song and dance (1 Sam. 18:6); and David danced before the ark with all his might (2 Sam. 6:14). Dancing also accompanied family festivity, as in the return of the prodigal son (Luke 15:25), and prophetic visions of restoration (Jer. 31:4, 13).

Scripture cited

Matthew 11:17 Mark 6:22 Exodus 15:20 1 Kingdoms 18:6 2 Kingdoms 6:14 Luke 15:25 Jeremias 31:4

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