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."
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.
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.
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.
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