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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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