Bushy
The Term in Scripture
The Hebrew word translated as 'bushy' in the King James Version is taltallîm (תַּלְתַּלִּים), found only in Song of Solomon 5:11. The verse reads: 'His head is as the most fine gold, his locks are bushy, and black as a raven.' Modern translations often render this as 'curly' (CSB, NIV) or 'wavy' (ESV), emphasizing the texture and luxurious appearance of the hair. This single occurrence places the term firmly within the rich, metaphorical language of the Song of Solomon.
Poetic Function in the Song of Solomon
The description is part of a wasf-a traditional poetic form cataloging physical features, spoken by the Shulammite woman about her beloved (Song of Solomon 5:10-16). Each metaphor extols an aspect of his beauty and character. 'Bushy' or 'curly' hair, black as a raven, conveys vitality, strength, and youthful vigor. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such hair was often associated with health, masculinity, and desirability. This intimate, celebratory portrait challenges ascetic views of the body, affirming that physical attraction and delight are God-given gifts within marriage.
Linguistic and Translation Insights
The Hebrew root suggests something 'pendant' or 'hanging in curls.' The Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) uses elatai, meaning 'ductile' or 'pliable,' further supporting the idea of soft, flowing locks. The translation history shows a shift from the KJV's 'bushy' (implying thickness and fullness) to modern preferences for 'curly' or 'wavy,' which more precisely capture the term's nuance. This highlights how translation choices can subtly shape the imagery received by readers.
Cultural and Aesthetic Context
In the ancient world, well-kept, abundant hair was a common symbol of beauty and potency for both men and women (see 2 Samuel 14:25-26). Black hair, compared to a raven, signified a prime of life untouched by graying age. The detailed physical description in the Song counters any notion that biblical spirituality is purely abstract or disembodied. Instead, it sanctifies the sensory experience of love, viewing the human form as a masterpiece worthy of poetic praise.
Biblical Context
The term appears exclusively in Song of Solomon 5:11. It is a descriptive element within a larger poem where the Shulammite woman praises her bridegroom's physical appearance. The Song of Solomon is a canonical book of love poetry that explores the intimacy, joy, and sometimes tension within a marital relationship, using highly metaphorical language.
Theological Significance
The description of 'bushy' or curly hair, while a minor detail, contributes to a significant biblical theme: the goodness of physical creation and human love. It reflects a theology of embodiment where God's gifts include sensory beauty and marital attraction. The Song of Solomon, through such vivid imagery, affirms that passionate, exclusive love between husband and wife is a divine mystery that reflects God's own covenant love for his people (Ephesians 5:31-32).
Historical Background
Ancient Near Eastern love poetry frequently used detailed physical descriptions, similar to the wasf in Song of Solomon. Egyptian and Mesopotamian texts also compare hair to lapis lazuli, vines, or date clusters. Haircare with oils and combs was common, and luxurious hair was a cultural ideal. Archaeological finds, such as combs, mirrors, and depictions in art, confirm the importance of hairstyle as a marker of beauty, status, and health in the biblical world.