An instrument of music, early and often mentioned in Scripture, Genesis 31:27 Job 21:12 . The Hebrews called it toph, under which name they comprehended all kinds of drums, tabors, and tambourines. We do not find that the Hebrews used it in their wars, but only at their public rejoicing, Exodus 15:20 Isaiah 24:8; and it was commonly employed by the women, Psalm 62:12 . It consisted, and still consists, of a small circular rim or hoop, over which a skin is drawn. The rim is also hung with small bells. The timbrel is used as an accompaniment to lively music, being shaken and beaten with the knuckles in time. After the passage of the Red sea, Miriam, sister of Moses, took a timbrel, and began to play and dance with the women, Exodus 15:20 . The daughter of Jephthah came to meet her father with timbrels and other musical instruments, Judges 11:34 . See MUSIC .