Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of singing and songs in the Hebrew Bible is often represented by words such as שִׁיר (shiyr, Strong's Hebrew 7891) and מִזְמוֹר (mizmor, Strong's Hebrew 4210). These terms are used in the Psalms and other Old Testament passages to denote songs of praise, worship, and lamentation, paralleling the New Testament use of ᾠδή in the context of spiritual songs and hymns.

Usage: The term ᾠδή is used in the New Testament to refer to spiritual songs or hymns, often in the context of worship or praise to God.

Context: The Greek word ᾠδή (ōdē) appears in the New Testament primarily in contexts related to worship and the expression of spiritual truths through music. It is found in passages that encourage believers to engage in singing as a form of spiritual edification and communal worship. The use of ᾠδή in the New Testament underscores the importance of music in the early Christian community as a means of teaching, admonishing, and expressing the joy of salvation.

In Ephesians 5:19, Paul exhorts the believers to "speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (ᾠδαῖς), singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord." This passage highlights the role of ᾠδή as a vehicle for mutual encouragement and worship within the body of Christ. Similarly, in Colossians 3:16, the apostle instructs the church to "let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (ᾠδαῖς) with gratitude in your hearts to God."

The use of ᾠδή in Revelation 5:9 and 14:3 further illustrates its significance in the heavenly worship scene, where the redeemed sing a new song before the throne of God. These instances reflect the eschatological hope and the ultimate fulfillment of worship in the presence of God.

Theologically, ᾠδή is associated with the expression of divine truths and the celebration of God's redemptive acts. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of worship and the unity of believers in their shared faith and hope.