The Hebrew word shôrer, represented by H8326, refers to the navel. Derived from a root meaning "twisting," it can also allude to the umbilical cord or a bodice. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 times in 1 unique verses within the scriptures, making its single appearance highly significant.
The sole use of H8326 is found in the poetic imagery of the Song of Solomon. In this context, the beloved's form is praised with rich metaphors: "Thy navel is like a round goblet, which wanteth not liquor: thy belly is like an heap of wheat set about with lilies" Song of Solomon 7:2. Here, shôrer is not merely an anatomical reference but is elevated through comparison to a beautiful, overflowing vessel, contributing to a portrait of ideal beauty and abundance.
The single verse containing H8326 connects it to several other descriptive Hebrew words that enrich its meaning:
- H5469 çahar (round): This word, meaning "roundness," is used to describe the shape of the goblet to which the navel is compared, emphasizing perfection and completeness Song of Solomon 7:2.
- H101 ʼaggân (goblet): Defined as a "bowl, basin, cup, goblet," this is the object of the simile, suggesting a vessel of value and beauty Song of Solomon 7:2.
- H990 beṭen (belly): Appearing immediately after the navel, this word for "belly" or "womb" continues the physical description and is linked elsewhere to the source of life and heritage (Psalms 127:3, Isaiah 44:2).
- H2637 châçêr (wanteth): Meaning "to lack" or "fail," its use in the negative ("wanteth not") implies a state of unending fullness and provision, a concept echoed in passages like Psalms 23:1.
- H7799 shûwshan (lily): This word for "lily" frames the imagery, adding a sense of natural beauty, purity, and preciousness Song of Solomon 7:2.
Though not a theological term in itself, the symbolic context of H8326 carries significant weight. Its imagery points to several themes:
- Abundance and Provision: The navel is compared to a goblet that "wanteth not liquor" Song of Solomon 7:2. This imagery of unending supply is amplified by the description of the belly as a "heap of wheat" H6194, a direct symbol of sustenance and bountiful harvest.
- Perfection and Beauty: The use of "round goblet" (H5469, H101) paints a picture of flawless form. The surrounding "lilies" H7799 further underscore the themes of beauty and preciousness found throughout the Song of Solomon Song of Solomon 2:1.
- Life and Fertility: The proximity to the word beṭen H990, which often means "womb" (Jeremiah 1:5, Psalms 139:13), links the imagery to the very source of life, suggesting vitality and fruitfulness.
In summary, H8326 shôrer is a singular term whose meaning is deeply enriched by its solitary context. Found only in Song of Solomon 7:2, it serves as a focal point in a poetic celebration of beauty. Through associated imagery of a full goblet, heaps of wheat, and surrounding lilies, the word contributes to a powerful portrait of abundance, perfection, and life.
TRV