שַׁחֲרוּת (sha.cha.rut)
sha.cha.rut
dark hair
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun shaḥărut denotes a state of blackness, specifically referring to the dark color of hair. In the Bible, this term appears only once, in Ecclesiastes 11:10. The sources indicate that this physical description serves as a marker for youth, evoking the vitality and freshness associated with early life.
This single occurrence highlights how the text uses visual details to convey abstract concepts. By linking dark hair to the dawn of youth, the writer creates a vivid image of new beginnings. The word does not appear in other contexts, making its usage here unique and focused entirely on this specific association between appearance and age.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word shaḥărut describes the deep, dark color of hair, a detail found only once in Scripture within Ecclesiastes 11:10. Here it stands as a vivid marker for youth, capturing the vitality and freshness that often accompany early life. The text uses this visual cue to remind us that these seasons are fleeting.
When we see references to dark hair or youthful energy, it points toward the temporary nature of our physical prime. This awareness invites us to live with intention during our strongest years, rather than waiting for later stages of life. It is a gentle call to appreciate the present moment while recognizing that all seasons pass.
By focusing on what truly matters in these brief years, we find peace in the changing times. May you find joy in your current season, trusting that wisdom grows with every step forward.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ the/ black hair1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/הַֽ/שַּׁחֲר֖וּת1×
Key Verses
-
Ecclesiastes 11:10
Therefore remove sorrow from your heart, and put away evil from your flesh; for youth and the dawn of life are vanity.
This verse uses dark hair as a specific visual symbol for the dawn of life, highlighting how physical vitality is temporary.