### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çᵉmâdar**, represented by `{{H5563}}`, describes a **vine blossom** or **tender grape**. Derived from a root of uncertain origin, this term appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It specifically denotes the early, blossoming stage of a grapevine, sometimes used adverbially to mean "abloom."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H5563}}` are found within the Song of Solomon, tying it closely to themes of love and nature's beauty. In one instance, the appearance of the **tender grape** `{{H5563}}` on the vines `{{H1612}}` coincides with the fig tree `{{H8384}}` putting forth its green figs `{{H6291}}`, creating a scene where the blossoms "give `{{H5414}}` a good smell `{{H7381}}`" [[Song of Solomon 2:13]]. The term also highlights vulnerability; a call is made to take `{{H270}}` the little `{{H6996}}` foxes `{{H7776}}` that spoil `{{H2254}}` the vines `{{H3754}}` when they have **tender grapes** [[Song of Solomon 2:15]]. Finally, it serves as a sign of progress and anticipation, as the lovers seek to see `{{H7200}}` if the vine has flourished and the **tender grape** has appeared `{{H6605}}` [[Song of Solomon 7:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the agricultural and poetic context of **çᵉmâdar**:
* `{{H1612}}` **gephen** (vine): As the plant that produces the **tender grape**, this word is central to the imagery. It refers to a **vine**, especially the grape, and its condition is a key focus in the passages where `{{H5563}}` is found ([[Song of Solomon 2:13]], 7:12).
* `{{H3754}}` **kerem** (vineyard): This term defines the location, a **garden or vineyard**, where the new growth is observed. The state of the **vineyard** is a matter of concern and a setting for the lovers ([[Song of Solomon 2:15]], 7:12).
* `{{H6524}}` **pârach** (to flourish): This verb, meaning to **bloom** or **flourish**, describes the process leading to the appearance of the tender grape. It signifies breaking forth like a bud and is a sign of life and vitality [[Song of Solomon 7:12]].
* `{{H6291}}` **pag** (green fig): Meaning an **unripe fig**, this word appears alongside `{{H5563}}` to emphasize the theme of early-stage fruitfulness and the arrival of spring [[Song of Solomon 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H5563}}` is concentrated within its poetic context in the Song of Solomon.
* **Nascent Love and Promise:** The **tender grape** symbolizes the beautiful but delicate beginning of love. Its appearance is a promising sign, prompting the lovers to go to the vineyards and inspiring invitations to "Arise `{{H6965}}`, my love `{{H7474}}`" [[Song of Solomon 2:13]] and give loves `{{H1730}}` [[Song of Solomon 7:12]].
* **Vulnerability and Protection:** The **tender grapes** are susceptible to being spoiled by little foxes `{{H7776}}` [[Song of Solomon 2:15]]. This illustrates the fragility of new beginnings and the need to guard what is precious before it reaches maturity.
* **Sign of Renewal and Beauty:** Paired with budding pomegranates `{{H7416}}`, flourishing vines `{{H1612}}`, and green figs `{{H6291}}`, the **tender grape** is a key indicator of seasonal renewal. Its presence contributes to a rich sensory landscape, including a "good smell" `{{H7381}}` [[Song of Solomon 2:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5563}}` is a highly specific and rare term that carries significant poetic weight. Though it only appears three times, its exclusive use in the Song of Solomon firmly establishes **çᵉmâdar** as a symbol of the promising, beautiful, and fragile beginnings of love. It encapsulates a moment of nascent potential, representing both the joy of new growth and the need for careful protection.
TRV