Shir Ha-Elohim: A Prolegomenon to Biblical Aesthetics

This article discusses the thought of a series of biblical writers on human art. I analyze the account of the tabernacle by the Priestly writer of the Pentateuch; the stories about David as a poet and musician in the Deuteronomistic History; and the Chronicler’s account of the poetry, song, music, and dance appointed by David for the Jerusalem Temple. I argue that the biblical writers have a high view of art, thinking of it as a central part of covenant life.