DANCE
Among Jews, extemporaneous expression of secular or religious joy; never for pure pleasure; always during the day. Generally practiced by women (Ex. 15:20; Judges 11:34; 21:21; 1 Sam. 18:6, 7; Jer. 31:4, 13); sometimes by men alone (2 Sam. 6:14-23; Ps. 30:11; 49:3; Lam. 5:15; Lk. 15:25).
Only one case of a woman dancing, Roman style, in front of men to please them is cited in the Bible: Salome. (See).
In some Egyptian tombs scenes of banquets featuring dancers are preserved. Among the Hebrews, dancing was used to celebrate national anniversaries (Ex. 15:20, 21), to welcome heroes (Judg. 11:34; 1 Sam. 18:6), and to express rejoicing over some special blessing (2 James 6:14; Jer. 31:4, 13; Luke 15:25). It also figured in religious services and activities that had to do with expressions of faith (Ps. 149:3; 150:4).