Jubal (also Yuval, Yubal or Tubal; Hebrew: יוּבָל – Yūḇāl) is a biblical figure in Genesis4:21 of the Hebrew Bible and Old Testament.[1] Mentioned only once, he is sometimes regarded by Christians, particularly by medieval commentators, as the 'inventor of music'. A descendant of Cain, his father is Lamech and his brother is Jabal.[1]
Biblical narrative
Jubal is only known from his appearance in Genesis4:21 of the Hebrew Bible and Old Testament.[1] The account describes him as a descendant of Cain and the son of Lamech and Adah. He is also a brother of Jabal, and half-brother of Tubal-cain and Naamah. Genesis credits him as the forefather of certain instruments: the kinnor (Hebrew: כנור) and ʿuḡāḇ (עוגב, a reed instrument, perhaps a flute). The translations of these vary depending on the edition:
"he was the ancestor of all those who play the lyre and pipe" (NRSV)[2]
"he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ" (KJV)[3]
Polin, Claire C. J. (1954). Gifts of Jubal: Musical Instruments from the Ancient East. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania University Museum. OCLC11409458.