### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsêlel**, represented by `{{H6752}}`, is derived from an underlying root and carries the meaning of **shade** or **shadow**. Though its usage is limited, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, it provides poignant imagery related to the passage of time and physical covering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{H6752}}` is used in two distinct contexts. Most frequently, it serves as a poetic marker for the passage of time. In the Song of Solomon, the phrase "until the day break, and the **shadows** flee away" appears twice, symbolizing the transition from night to morning ([[Song of Solomon 2:17]], [[Song of Solomon 4:6]]). Similarly, in Jeremiah, the coming of night is described as a time when "the **shadows** of the evening are stretched out" [[Jeremiah 6:4]]. In a more literal sense, Job uses the term to describe the physical shelter provided by a plant, stating that "The shady trees cover him with their **shadow**" [[Job 40:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to contextualize the meaning of **tsêlel**:
* `{{H3117}}` **yôwm** (a day): This word is intrinsically linked to **tsêlel**, as the movement of shadows is used to measure the progression of a **day**. The imagery in Song of Solomon is built on the relationship between the coming **day** and the fleeing shadows [[Song of Solomon 2:17]].
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flit, i.e. vanish away): This verb describes the action of the shadows at dawn. In the poetic language of Song of Solomon, the shadows do not merely fade but actively "flee away" [[Song of Solomon 4:6]], emphasizing the definitive arrival of light.
* `{{H6315}}` **pûwach** (to puff, i.e. blow with the breath or air): This word is translated as "break" in the phrase "Until the day break" [[Song of Solomon 2:17]]. Its root meaning of blowing or puffing adds a layer of gentle, active force to the arrival of the morning.
* `{{H6628}}` **tseʼel** (the lotus tree; shady tree): This noun is the direct source of the **shadow** in Job. The verse explicitly connects the "shady trees" with the **shadow** they provide, showing a cause-and-effect relationship [[Job 40:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6752}}` is found in its powerful and concise imagery.
* **Temporal Marker:** The primary function of **tsêlel** in the provided texts is to act as a natural clock. The fleeing of shadows at dawn [[Song of Solomon 2:17]] and their stretching at dusk [[Jeremiah 6:4]] poetically frame the duration of a day.
* **Symbol of Transition:** The association of **shadows** with verbs like "flee away" `{{H5127}}` and "stretched out" portrays them as dynamic and transient, marking moments of significant change between light and darkness.
* **Image of Shelter:** The usage in Job provides a concrete and tangible meaning. The **shadow** is a source of cover and protection, a place of rest from the elements offered by the "shady trees" [[Job 40:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6752}}` **tsêlel** is a focused Hebrew term for **shadow** or **shade**. While it appears infrequently, its usage is impactful, primarily serving as a poetic device to illustrate the beginning and end of the day. Its secondary meaning, as seen in Job, provides a literal sense of shelter and covering. The word demonstrates how a simple element of the natural world can be used to convey themes of time, transition, and protection.
TRV