of uncertain derivation; a vine blossom; used also adverbially, abloom; tender grape.
Transliteration:çᵉmâdar
Pronunciation:sem-aw-dar'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word *çᵉmâdar* (`{{H5563}}`) refers primarily to the "vine blossom" or "tender grape." Its derivation is noted as uncertain, which underscores its unique semantic space. The term captures a specific, early stage in the life cycle of the grapevine, preceding the development of the mature grape. This signifies a period of nascent growth, potential, and the promise of future fruit. The base definition also notes its adverbial use, "abloom," indicating the state of the vine when it is flowering. Thus, *çᵉmâdar* encompasses both the physical bloom itself and the condition of being in blossom, often associated with the pleasant fragrance emitted by the flowering vine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *çᵉmâdar* (`{{H5563}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Song of Solomon, consistently within the context of spring, vineyards, and the flourishing of nature, which serves as a backdrop for expressions of love and desire.
* **[[Song of Solomon 2:13]]**: "The fig tree ripens its figs, and the vines are in blossom (`{{H5563}}`); they give forth fragrance. Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away."
* Here, *çᵉmâdar* describes the state of the vines, "in blossom," emphasizing the arrival of spring and the sensory experience of its fragrance. It is part of a broader call to intimacy and enjoyment of creation's beauty, signaling a time of new beginnings and awakening. The association with fragrance highlights a delightful and alluring aspect of this stage.
* **[[Song of Solomon 7:12]]**: "Let us go early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine has budded, if its blossom (`{{H5563}}`) has opened, and the pomegranates are in bloom. There I will give you my love."
* This verse again places *çᵉmâdar* in the context of the early stages of vine growth, specifically the "opening" of the blossom. It is an invitation to observe and participate in the unfolding beauty and potential of the natural world, which serves as a metaphor for the deepening of love and commitment. The act of "seeing" the *çᵉmâdar* implies an appreciation for tender beginnings and the anticipation of fruitfulness.
In both instances, *çᵉmâdar* evokes a sense of freshness, renewal, and the promise of abundance, intimately linked with the themes of love, desire, and the natural cycles of growth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of *çᵉmâdar* (`{{H5563}}`) is enriched by its relationship to other biblical terms and concepts:
* **Vine (`{{H1612}}`, *gephen*):** The plant itself, which *çᵉmâdar* is a part of. The vine is a pervasive biblical metaphor for Israel, for fruitfulness, and for Christ's relationship with His disciples (e.g., [[John 15:1-8]]).
* **Grape (`{{H6025}}`, *ʿēnāḇ*):** The mature fruit that develops from the *çᵉmâdar*. The blossom is the precursor to the harvest, signifying the potential for abundance.
* **Budding/Blossoming:** Concepts of initial growth and flourishing, often associated with the arrival of spring and new life.
* **Fruitfulness:** The ultimate purpose of the vine, to bear fruit. The *çᵉmâdar* is a crucial step towards this end, symbolizing the promise of future yield.
* **Fragrance:** Often associated with blossoms, symbolizing pleasantness, delight, and sometimes spiritual offering (e.g., [[Ephesians 5:2]]).
* **Agricultural Imagery:** The broader biblical context of agrarian life, which frequently provides metaphors for spiritual truths, divine provision, and human endeavor.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *çᵉmâdar* (`{{H5563}}`) stems from its portrayal of promise, potential, and the beauty of divine design:
* **Promise and Hope:** The vine blossom represents the promise of future fruit. It is a stage of anticipation, where the full harvest is not yet realized but is eagerly awaited. This can be analogized to the spiritual life, where initial faith, obedience, or a season of renewal is the "blossom" that precedes the "fruit" of righteousness, character development, or good works (e.g., [[Galatians 5:22-23]]). It speaks to the hope inherent in God's ongoing work in creation and in the lives of believers.
* **Divine Timing and Providence:** The blossoming of the vine occurs at its appointed time within the natural cycle, a testament to God's ordered creation. This highlights divine providence and the beauty of His design, where each stage of growth is necessary and purposeful.
* **Intimacy and Delight:** Within the Song of Solomon, *çᵉmâdar* is intertwined with expressions of deep love and desire. It suggests a time of tender beginnings, the blossoming of affection, and the delightful sensory experiences that accompany a flourishing relationship. This can be seen as a metaphor for the intimate relationship between God and His people, or Christ and the Church, emphasizing the beauty and joy found in their communion.
* **Spiritual Awakening and Renewal:** Just as spring brings the *çᵉmâdar*, so too can there be seasons of spiritual awakening and renewal in the life of an individual or a community. These are times when new life, fresh potential, and a renewed capacity for fruitfulness emerge, often accompanied by a sense of joy and vibrant presence.
* **Pleasing Aroma:** The "giving forth fragrance" associated with *çᵉmâdar* ([[Song of Solomon 2:13]]) can symbolize the pleasing aroma of a life devoted to God, a "fragrant offering" (e.g., [[Philippians 4:18]]) that is beautiful and acceptable in His sight.
### Summary
The Hebrew word *çᵉmâdar* (`{{H5563}}`) denotes the "vine blossom" or "tender grape," a term found exclusively in the Song of Solomon (`{{H5563}}`). It encapsulates a crucial, early stage of the vine's development, signifying promise, potential, and the anticipation of future fruit. In its biblical contexts (e.g., [[Song of Solomon 2:13]], [[Song of Solomon 7:12]]), *çᵉmâdar* is closely associated with the beauty and renewal of spring, the delightful fragrance of flourishing nature, and the blossoming of love and intimacy. Theologically, it serves as a rich metaphor for hope, divine timing, and the tender beginnings of spiritual growth and fruitfulness in the life of faith. It evokes a sense of beauty, delight, and the pleasing aroma of a new season, both in the natural world and in the sacred relationship between God and His beloved.
TRV