### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma כַּרְכֹּם (karkôm), Strong's number `{{H3750}}`, refers specifically to "saffron." This is a highly prized and ancient spice derived from the stigma of the saffron crocus (*Crocus sativus*). Its value stems from its distinctive golden-yellow color, pungent aroma, and unique flavor. The etymological note "probably of foreign origin" suggests that the name, and perhaps the spice itself, was introduced to the Hebrew-speaking world from another culture, reflecting its status as a valuable commodity traded across regions. Its semantic range is narrow, precisely denoting this particular botanical substance and its culinary or perfumery applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word כַּרְכֹּם (karkôm) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, found in [[Song of Solomon 4:14]]. In this verse, it is listed among a series of exotic and aromatic plants and spices that metaphorically describe the beauty and desirability of the beloved. The full list includes nard (`{{H5210}}`), saffron (כַּרְכֹּם), calamus (`{{H7070}}`), cinnamon (`{{H6992}}`), frankincense trees (`{{H3828}}`), myrrh (`{{H4753}}`), and aloes (`{{H174}}`). This catalogue of precious aromatics paints a vivid picture of a "garden enclosed," symbolizing the beloved's purity, exclusive devotion, and manifold virtues. The inclusion of saffron, a costly and luxurious spice, emphasizes the exquisite and delightful nature of the beloved's presence, appealing to the senses of smell and taste, and underscoring her unique and captivating charm within the context of marital love.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a botanical term for a spice, כַּרְכֹּם (karkôm) is closely related to other aromatic substances mentioned in the Bible, particularly those found in the same verse in Song of Solomon. These include:
* `{{H5210}}` (nerd): nard, a fragrant oil or perfume.
* `{{H7070}}` (qaneh): calamus, an aromatic reed.
* `{{H6992}}` (qinnamon): cinnamon, a well-known spice.
* `{{H3828}}` (levonah): frankincense, a fragrant resin.
* `{{H4753}}` (mor): myrrh, a bitter aromatic gum.
* `{{H174}}` (ahalim): aloes, another fragrant wood or resin.
Beyond specific plants, כַּרְכֹּם connects to broader concepts of:
* **Fragrance and Aroma:** Signifying pleasantness, beauty, and often, divine favor or presence (e.g., incense in the Tabernacle).
* **Beauty and Desirability:** As a component of a beautiful garden, it enhances the portrayal of the beloved's allure.
* **Preciousness and Value:** Saffron was and remains one of the world's most expensive spices by weight, highlighting the high esteem in which the beloved is held.
* **Gardens and Paradise:** The imagery of a lush, fragrant garden often evokes the Garden of Eden, symbolizing abundance, delight, and purity.
### Theological Significance
While כַּרְכֹּם (karkôm) does not carry explicit theological doctrine, its singular appearance in Song of Solomon contributes to the book's profound spiritual and ethical insights.
* **Divine Creation and Provision:** The existence of such a beautiful and valuable spice points to the richness and diversity of God's creation, designed not only for sustenance but also for delight and aesthetic pleasure. It reflects the Creator's bountiful provision for humanity.
* **Symbolism of Wholesome Love:** Within the allegorical or literal interpretation of Song of Solomon, the fragrant spices like saffron symbolize the manifold virtues, joys, and delights found in a pure, exclusive, and God-honoring relationship, particularly within marriage. The "garden enclosed" is a metaphor for the beloved's purity and loyalty, and the spices within it represent the precious fruit of such devotion.
* **Anticipation of Heavenly Perfection:** The imagery of a perfect, fragrant garden can also subtly point towards the ultimate restoration of paradise, where all creation will flourish in divine harmony. The preciousness of saffron can be seen as a faint echo of the immeasurable value and beauty of God's eternal kingdom and the intimate fellowship believers will share with Christ.
### Summary
The Hebrew word כַּרְכֹּם (karkôm), `{{H3750}}`, refers to "saffron," a highly valued and aromatic spice derived from the crocus. Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[Song of Solomon 4:14]], where it is listed among other precious aromatics describing the beauty and desirability of the beloved's "garden." This inclusion emphasizes the exquisite nature, purity, and profound value of the beloved within the context of marital love. Theologically, כַּרְכֹּם subtly highlights the richness of God's creation, the beauty and delight inherent in pure human relationships, and offers a symbolic foretaste of the abundance and joy associated with God's ultimate kingdom. It is consistently associated with concepts of fragrance, beauty, and preciousness.
TRV