בֹּ֫שֶׂם (ba.sam)
ba.sam
spice
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun bosem refers to a valuable spice or aromatic resin, often identified as balsam. In the Hebrew Bible, it denotes both the raw material itself and the sweet, pleasant odor it releases. This word appears only once in Scripture, marking it as a rare and specific term for luxury goods.
Its single occurrence is in Song of Solomon 4:13, where it describes the fragrance of the garden’s plants. The context highlights sensory richness, using the scent to evoke intimacy and beauty. Translators typically render it "spice" or "balsam," capturing its role as a prized item in ancient trade networks.
The rarity of bosem underscores its value. Unlike common herbs, balsam was imported from distant regions and used in perfumes and anointing oils. Its presence in poetic literature emphasizes the allure and preciousness of creation, serving as a metaphor for delight and favor.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word bosom (H1313) appears only once in Scripture, found in Song of Solomon 5:1. It refers to a precious spice or balsam, an item so valuable in the ancient world that it symbolized deep affection and exclusive ownership. When the speaker says they have gathered their spice along with myrrh, honey, and wine, they are describing a garden filled with rare and costly delights.
This single occurrence reminds us that God cares about the sensory beauty of our lives. The use of such an expensive ingredient highlights the intimacy between the lovers, suggesting that true relationship involves sharing the best we have. In a world that often values quantity over quality, this word points to the richness found in devoted love and the joy of shared moments.
While we may not have access to ancient balsam gardens, the principle remains: God invites us into relationships marked by generosity and delight. The fragrance of these spices lingers in the text, reminding us that love is often expressed through thoughtful, costly gestures that honor the other person.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- spice/ my1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְּשָׂמִ֔/י1×
Key Verses
-
Song of Solomon 5:1
I have come into my garden, my sister, my bride. I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drunk my wine with my milk. Friends Eat, friends! Drink, yes, drink abundantly, beloved.
This verse uniquely pairs the spice with myrrh and honey to illustrate the bride's exclusive claim over her garden and her readiness for intimate communion.