The Hebrew word shûwshan, represented by H7799, is a term for the lily. It appears 15 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its use and origin, it signifies a lily, often noted for its whiteness, and is applied both as a flower in nature, an element of architectural ornament, and a term for a trumpet or musical direction, “Shoshannim.”
In biblical usage, shûwshan appears in several distinct contexts. In the Song of Solomon, it is a recurring symbol of love and beauty. The beloved is described as one who “feedeth among the lilies” Song of Solomon 2:16 and is compared to a “lily among thorns” Song of Solomon 2:2. The physical attributes of the lovers are likened to the flower, such as lips “like lilies” Song of Solomon 5:13. The word also describes architectural details in the temple, where the tops of the pillars featured “lily work” (1 Kings 7:19, 1 Kings 7:22) and the brim of the molten sea was wrought “with flowers of lilies” 1 Kings 7:26. In the Psalms, it appears as “Shoshannim” in the titles, likely as a musical notation (Psalms 45:1, Psalms 69:1).
The theological and symbolic weight of shûwshan is significant. It is used to convey concepts of divine blessing, purity, and sacred beauty.
- Symbol of Restoration: The prophet Hosea uses the lily as a direct metaphor for God's promise to restore Israel. God declares, “I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily” Hosea 14:5, connecting the flower's growth to national renewal.
- Emblem of Purity and Love: Throughout the Song of Solomon, the lily represents a pure and cherished love, set apart from the ordinary. The lover is unique, “as the lily among thorns” Song of Solomon 2:2, and the setting for their intimacy is a place where they “feed among the lilies” Song of Solomon 4:5.
- Sanctified Beauty: By incorporating “lily work” into the design of the temple pillars and vessels (1 Kings 7:19, 1 Kings 7:26), natural beauty is brought into the place of worship, signifying that the elegance of God's creation has a role in glorifying Him.
In summary, shûwshan is far more than a simple botanical term. It serves as a powerful and versatile symbol within Scripture. From its use as a metaphor for divine restoration in prophecy to its role as an emblem of pure love in poetry and a motif of sanctified beauty in temple architecture, shûwshan illustrates how a single image from the natural world can convey profound spiritual and aesthetic meaning.
