2 Kings 3:15

“But now bring me a minstrel, etc.] A piper, a man that knows how to play upon the harp, as the Targum; according to Procopius Gazaeus, this was one of the Levites he ordered to be fetched, who was used to the spiritual melody of David, and could play on musical instruments as he directed. This he did to allay his passion, and compose his spirits, ruffled at the sight of Jehoram, and to fit him to receive prophetic inspiration, which sometimes came upon the Lord’s prophets when thus employed, (see <091005>1 Samuel 10:5). Some think f32 the music the prophet called for is that sort the Greeks call “harmony”, which is the gravest and saddest, and settles the affections: and it came to pass,…”

“bring me a minstrel--The effect of music in soothing the mind is much regarded in the East; and it appears that the ancient prophets, before entering their work, commonly resorted to it, as a preparative, by praise and prayer, to their receiving the prophetic afflatus. the hand of the Lord--a phrase significantly implying that the gift of prophecy was not a natural or inherent gift, but conferred by the power and grace of God.”

“Music seems to have been a regular accompaniment of prophecy in the “schools of the prophets” (marginal reference), and an occasional accompaniment of it elsewhere Exodus 15:20. return to 'Top of Page'”

“Minstrel - One that can sing and play upon a musical instrument. This he requires, that his mind which had been disturbed at the sight of wicked Jehoram, might be composed, and that he might be excited to more fervent prayer whereby he was prepared to receive the prophetic inspiration. Those that desire communion with God must keep their spirits quiet and serene. All hurry of spirit, and all turbulent passions, make us unfit for divine visitations. The hand, &c. - The spirit of prophecy, so called, to note that it was no natural nor acquired virtue inherent in him; but a singular gift of God, given to whom and when he pleased. 4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:19”

“3:15 bring me someone who can play the harp: Music stimulated the prophetic spirit (cp. Ps 49:4).”

“bring me: This was evidently intended to soothe and tranquillize the prophet's mind, which had been agitated and discomposed with holy indignation by the presence of the idolatrous king, and the recollection of his abomination. The soothing influence of music is generally acknowledged in every civilized nation. Sa1 10:5, Sa1 16:23, Sa1 18:10; Ch1 25:2, Ch1 25:3; Eph 5:18, Eph 5:19 the hand: Kg1 18:46; Eze 1:3, Eze 3:14, Eze 3:22, Eze 8:1; Act 11:21 4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:16”