### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsammâh**, represented by `{{H6777}}`, is defined as a **veil** or **locks**. It appears only **4 times** in **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The word originates from an unused root meaning to fasten on, suggesting something that is attached or covers a part of the head.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Song of Solomon, `{{H6777}}` is used poetically to describe the beauty of the beloved. Her **eyes** `{{H5869}}` are described as doves' eyes seen "within thy **locks**" [[Song of Solomon 4:1]], and her **temples** `{{H7541}}` are likened to a piece of a pomegranate also found "within thy **locks**" ([[Song of Solomon 4:3]], 6:7). This context portrays the locks as a feature that frames and enhances beauty. In contrast, the prophet Isaiah uses the word in a prophecy of judgment, commanding a disgraced city to "uncover `{{H1540}}` thy **locks**" [[Isaiah 47:2]], an action associated with shame and humiliation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to illuminate the meaning of **tsammâh**:
* `{{H1157}}` **bᵉʻad** (within): This preposition is used in Song of Solomon to indicate that the beloved's features are seen **within** her **locks** `{{H6777}}`, suggesting a sense of being framed or partially concealed [[Song of Solomon 4:3]].
* `{{H1540}}` **gâlâh** (uncover): In a starkly different context, this verb commands to **uncover** the **locks** `{{H6777}}`, an act of humiliation and disgrace. The word's definition includes to denude, reveal, or discover [[Isaiah 47:2]].
* `{{H8181}}` **sêʻâr** (hair): This word is used in parallel with **locks** `{{H6777}}`, clarifying its physical nature. The beloved's **hair** is compared to a flock of goats, immediately following the mention of her eyes within her locks [[Song of Solomon 4:1]].
* `{{H7541}}` **raqqâh** (temple): This term for the side of the head is described as being visible "within thy **locks**" `{{H6777}}`, helping to physically place the locks and emphasize how they frame the face [[Song of Solomon 6:7]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H6777}}` is demonstrated through its contrasting uses:
* **Framing of Beauty:** In its appearances in the Song of Solomon, `{{H6777}}` functions as a poetic device to frame the beloved's beauty. Features like her **eyes** `{{H5869}}` and **temples** `{{H7541}}` are not just seen, but seen "within" the locks, creating an image of intimate, partially veiled allure [[Song of Solomon 4:1]].
* **Symbol of Humiliation:** [[Isaiah 47:2]] inverts this imagery. The command to "uncover `{{H1540}}` thy **locks**" is paired with making the leg and thigh bare. In this prophetic context, the removal of this covering symbolizes a stripping of honor and a public display of shame.
* **Dual Contextual Meaning:** The word's significance is entirely dependent on its context. In a setting of love and admiration, it signifies beauty and modesty. In a setting of judgment, its removal signifies disgrace and captivity [[Isaiah 47:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **tsammâh** `{{H6777}}` is a specific and rare term whose meaning shifts dramatically with its context. In the romantic poetry of Song of Solomon, it denotes **locks** of hair that act as an adornment, framing the beloved's face and adding to her beauty ([[Song of Solomon 4:1]], 4:3, 6:7). Conversely, in the prophetic judgment of Isaiah, the forced uncovering of these **locks** serves as a powerful symbol of humiliation and the stripping away of dignity [[Isaiah 47:2]]. The word illustrates how an object of beauty can become an emblem of shame depending on the narrative.
TRV