### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6247}}` (ʻesheth) is derived from the root `{{H6236}}` (ʻashath), which conveys the sense of being "smooth," "polished," or "glistening." Consequently, `{{H6247}}` itself carries the primary meaning of "brightness" or "polished quality," often referring to a material that shines due to its smooth surface. While the base definition also includes "fabric," its single biblical occurrence strongly emphasizes the "bright" or "polished" aspect, suggesting a material of high quality that reflects light. This semantic range points towards an object or substance that is not merely smooth, but possesses an inherent luster or has been intentionally refined to achieve a radiant appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H6247}}` appears only once in the Masoretic Text, found in [[Song of Solomon 5:14]]. In this verse, it is used to describe the beloved's body: "His body is as bright ivory, overlaid with sapphires." The phrase "bright ivory" (שֵׁן שֶׁת shen ʻesheth) employs `{{H6247}}` to qualify the ivory, emphasizing its pristine, polished, and luminous quality. The context is a vivid and detailed physical description, where the beloved's form is compared to precious and beautiful materials. The use of `{{H6247}}` here elevates the ivory beyond mere substance, endowing it with a radiant sheen that contributes to an overall image of exquisite beauty, purity, and value. The rarity of the word suggests its specific poetic intent, chosen to evoke a particular aesthetic of refined splendor.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root `{{H6236}}` (ʻashath), which means "to be smooth," "to be polished," or "to be bright/glistening." This root undergirds the meaning of `{{H6247}}`, highlighting the quality of a surface that has been made smooth to achieve a lustrous finish. Other related concepts include:
* **Beauty and Perfection:** The use of `{{H6247}}` contributes to an overarching description of ideal beauty, aligning with other terms for precious materials like gold `{{H2091}}`, silver `{{H3701}}`, and jewels `{{H68}}` used throughout Song of Solomon to depict the beloved's splendor.
* **Purity and Cleanliness:** A polished surface often connotes purity and freedom from blemish, echoing concepts like tahor `{{H2889}}` (pure, clean).
* **Radiance and Glory:** While not directly referring to divine glory, the "brightness" implied by `{{H6247}}` resonates with biblical descriptions of divine radiance or the shining countenances of those touched by God's presence, such as Moses' face after encountering the Lord ([[Exodus 34:29]]).
### Theological Significance
Though `{{H6247}}` appears only once and in a poetic context, its theological significance can be inferred from its contribution to the broader themes of Song of Solomon and the biblical appreciation for beauty.
1. **Divine Appreciation for Beauty:** The meticulous and effusive description of physical beauty, using terms like "bright ivory," suggests that beauty, particularly in its refined and pure form, is something valued and celebrated within the biblical worldview. This can be seen as a reflection of God's own artistry in creation.
2. **Allegorical Interpretations:** In allegorical readings of Song of Solomon (e.g., Christ and the Church, Yahweh and Israel), the "bright ivory" can symbolize the purity, perfection, and radiant holiness of the beloved. This polished beauty then points to the spiritual splendor and moral integrity that characterizes the ideal relationship between God and His people.
3. **Imagery of Purity and Value:** The quality of "brightness" or "polish" associated with precious materials like ivory often serves as a metaphor for moral purity, spiritual excellence, or inherent value. Thus, while not a theological term in itself, `{{H6247}}` enhances an image that can be extrapolated to theological concepts of worthiness and sanctification.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H6247}}` (ʻesheth) denotes "brightness" or a "polished" quality, deriving from a root that implies smoothness and glistening. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Song of Solomon 5:14]] describes the beloved's body as "bright ivory," emphasizing an exquisite, luminous purity. This rare and poetic term contributes to a vivid portrayal of ideal beauty and perfection, utilizing the imagery of precious, refined materials. Theologically, `{{H6247}}` underscores the biblical appreciation for beauty and, within allegorical interpretations of Song of Solomon, can symbolize the purity, radiance, and inherent worth of the beloved, reflecting divine standards of excellence and holiness.
TRV