The answer is: 8

Psalm 150 - This psalm celebrates worship through music, listing eight instruments: trumpet, lute, harp, tambourine, strings, flute, cymbals, and loud cymbals. Each instrument symbolizes joy and praise to God. Interestingly, the use of music in worship echoes throughout Scripture, from David dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:14) to heavenly choirs (Revelation 5:8-9).

Psalm 150 stands out as a vibrant celebration of worship through music, showcasing an impressive array of instruments that reflect the beauty and joy of praising the divine. Each of the eight instruments listed has its unique sound and history; for example, the trumpet often called people to worship and signaling significant events. It's fascinating that the same trumpet used in rituals also reverberates with the powerful call to arms in Jewish warfare.

Key to understanding the psalm’s context is realizing how integral music was to ancient worship practices. Consider King David, who not only had his moments of solemnity but also danced with abandon to celebrate the ark of the covenant’s arrival—his ecstatic joy embodied the spirit of worship fueled by music. It's said that David played the lyre, soothing Saul's troubled spirit as music often creates spaces for healing.

Interestingly, the list highlights varied timbres; “cymbals” could be soft or loud, much like how worship might inspire quiet reflection or exhilarating joy. This duality reflects our own spiritual journeys, where sometimes we sing quietly, and other times we shout for joy.

Moreover, parallel themes of music sprinkled throughout scripture—think of Jesus calming a storm or Paul and Silas singing in prison, show that music has always bridged earthly and spiritual realms, calling us together in community and resonance with the divine. What striking echoes!