### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H2542}}` (חַמּוּק, *chammûwq*) derives from the verbal root `{{H2541}}` (חָמַק, *châmaq*), which means "to turn, to turn oneself, to wind, to go about, to pass on." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding the semantic range of `{{H2542}}`. The core meaning thus relates to something that turns, winds, or forms a curve. Lexicographers offer definitions such as "a wrapping," "drawers," or "joints." The sense of "wrapping" or "drawers" implies something that encompasses or goes around the body. The interpretation as "joints" specifically points to the rounded, turning points of the body, such as the hips or thighs, where movement and curvature are prominent. This suggests a physical attribute characterized by its graceful, rounded, or articulated form.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2542}}` (חַמּוּק) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making its sole context of paramount importance for its interpretation. This unique occurrence is found in:
* **[[Song of Solomon 7:1]] (or 7:2 in some translations):** "How beautiful are your feet in sandals, O prince's daughter! The curves of your thighs are like jewels, the work of the hands of a master craftsman."
* In this poetic and highly descriptive verse, `{{H2542}}` is translated as "joints" (KJV, NASB) or "curves" (ESV, NIV, NRSV) of the thighs. The passage is part of a detailed description of the Shulammite woman's beauty, presented by the beloved. The imagery evokes not merely anatomical structure but an aesthetic appreciation of the graceful contours and rounded form of her thighs. The comparison to "jewels" (חֲלָאִים, *chala'im*) and "the work of the hands of a master craftsman" (מַעֲשֵׂה יְדֵי אָמָּן, *ma'aseh yedei 'amman*) elevates this physical attribute to an object of exquisite artistry and value. The word `{{H2542}}` here, therefore, emphasizes the elegant, rounded, and perhaps undulating shape, rather than merely the functional aspect of a joint. It speaks to the aesthetic appeal of the body's natural curves, which are seen as perfectly formed, akin to precious ornaments crafted with skill.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root from which `{{H2542}}` derives:
* `{{H2541}}` (חָמַק, *châmaq*): "to turn, to turn oneself, to wind, to go about." This root informs the noun `{{H2542}}` by providing the sense of curvature, rounding, or articulation. The "joints" or "curves" are precisely those parts of the body that "turn" or allow for turning.
Other related concepts, though not direct lexical cognates, include:
* **Beauty and Adornment:** The context in Song of Solomon places `{{H2542}}` within a description of physical beauty, likened to precious jewels and master craftsmanship. This connects it to broader biblical themes of aesthetic appreciation and the value placed on physical attractiveness, particularly in the context of human love and marriage.
* **Anatomy and Form:** The word describes a specific part of the human anatomy (the thighs) and emphasizes its form. While rare, its use highlights the Bible's capacity to engage with the physical world and human body in detailed and appreciative ways.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular appearance in the Song of Solomon, the theological significance of `{{H2542}}` is primarily derived from the broader interpretations of this unique biblical book.
1. **Affirmation of Created Beauty:** The description of the Shulammite's "curves of your thighs" as "like jewels, the work of the hands of a master craftsman" celebrates the human body as a work of divine art. This implicitly affirms the goodness and beauty of God's creation, including the physical form of humanity. It suggests that the intricate and graceful design of the body is not merely functional but also aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the artistry of the Creator (`{{H526}}`, *'amman* - master craftsman).
2. **Sanctity of Marital Intimacy:** Within the context of the Song of Solomon, which extols the beauty and passion of human love and marital intimacy, `{{H2542}}` contributes to a holistic appreciation of the beloved. It underscores that physical attraction and the enjoyment of the spouse's body are divinely sanctioned and celebrated aspects of the marital relationship. This stands in contrast to ascetic views that might denigrate the physical.
3. **Allegorical Interpretations:** For those who interpret the Song of Solomon allegorically (e.g., Christ and the Church, Yahweh and Israel), the beauty of the Shulammite can symbolize the spiritual beauty and perfection of the beloved community in the eyes of God. In this sense, the "curves of your thighs" might represent the inherent grace, strength, or steadfastness of the Church/Israel, made beautiful by the divine hand. The "master craftsman" then becomes God Himself, shaping His people into a work of art.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2542}}` (חַמּוּק, *chammûwq*) is a rare and evocative term, appearing only once in the biblical text in [[Song of Solomon 7:1]]. Derived from the root `{{H2541}}` ("to turn, to wind"), it refers to the graceful "curves" or "joints" of the thighs, emphasizing their rounded, elegant form. In its sole biblical context, it contributes to a rich poetic description of the Shulammite woman's beauty, likened to precious jewels and the work of a master craftsman. Theologically, `{{H2542}}` underscores the biblical affirmation of the human body as a beautiful creation of God, celebrating physical attraction within the bounds of marital intimacy. In allegorical interpretations of the Song, it can further symbolize the divinely crafted beauty and perfection of the beloved (Church or Israel) in the eyes of God.
TRV