What is a sistrum?

• A. A type of ceremonial mask.
• B. A curved musical instrument played by ancient Egyptian priestesses in ceremonies.
• C. A kind of end-word used in sestinas.
• D. A carved stone statue.

Answer: (B)

Understanding ancient Egyptian ceremonial objects and the sounds that accompanied ritual helps explain this. A sistrum is a curved handheld percussion instrument with a frame and suspended metal discs that rattle when it is shaken. It was used in ceremonies by priestesses to accompany hymns and prayers, especially in rites honoring Hathor, adding a distinctive jingling sound to the ritual atmosphere. This makes it clearly a musical instrument used in worship, not a mask, a statue, or a poetic term.