### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **karkôm**, represented by `{{H3750}}`, is the term for **saffron**, which comes from the crocus plant. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole appearance places it within a collection of luxurious and aromatic plants, contributing to a scene of immense sensory richness and value.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H3750}}` is found in the Song of Solomon. Here, **saffron** is listed as one of many choice plants in a metaphorical garden representing the beloved. It is mentioned in a sequence of valuable fragrances: "Spikenard and **saffron**; calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices" [[Song of Solomon 4:14]]. This context firmly establishes the word's association with beauty, delight, and abundance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The significance of **karkôm** is illuminated by the other valuable plants it is listed with:
* `{{H5373}}` **nêrd** (spikenard): An aromatic plant of great value. In Song of Solomon, its fragrance is released in the presence of the king [[Song of Solomon 1:12]].
* `{{H7076}}` **qinnâmôwn** (cinnamon): A fragrant spice derived from bark. It is mentioned as a perfume used to scent a bed, alongside myrrh and aloes [[Proverbs 7:17]].
* `{{H4753}}` **môr** (myrrh): A fragrant gum resin, used as incense and perfume. It is described as part of what makes a royal figure's garments smell fragrant [[Psalms 45:8]].
* `{{H1314}}` **besem** (spice): This general term for fragrance or spicery serves as a category for **karkôm** and the other plants. Spices were considered a sign of great wealth, brought as gifts to King Solomon by the Queen of Sheba [[2 Chronicles 9:1]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H3750}}` is derived entirely from its singular, rich context in Song of Solomon.
* **Symbol of Value and Rarity:** Saffron is grouped with spikenard, frankincense, and myrrh, all of which were costly and highly prized commodities. Its inclusion marks it as an element of luxury and preciousness [[Song of Solomon 4:14]].
* **Element of a Flourishing Garden:** The word helps to paint a picture of an ideal, thriving garden that represents beauty, love, and fruitfulness. The presence of **karkôm** adds to the sensory detail and opulence of this metaphorical landscape [[Song of Solomon 4:14]].
* **Contribution to Aromatic Beauty:** As one of the "chief spices," **saffron** contributes to an atmosphere of overwhelming fragrance and allure. This collection of scents symbolizes the captivating and delightful nature of the beloved in the poem [[Song of Solomon 4:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3750}}` **karkôm** is a highly specific term for **saffron**. Its solitary mention in scripture firmly places it within a context of luxury, beauty, and sensory delight. Though it is one of the rarest words in the Bible, its inclusion in the garden of Song of Solomon [[Song of Solomon 4:14]] marks it as a symbol of great worth and contributes to one of scripture's most vivid portraits of abundance and love.