תַּלְתַּל

תַּלְתַּל

a trailing bough (as pendulous)

Definition

The Hebrew noun תַּלְתַּל (taltal) refers to a 'trailing bough' or 'pendulous branch,' specifically describing the long, hanging, or flowing locks of hair. It conveys a sense of something that dangles, swings, or vibrates, emphasizing movement and luxurious length. In its sole biblical occurrence in Song of Solomon 5:11, it is used poetically to describe the beloved's hair as 'bushy' (KJV) or 'curly' (many modern translations), portraying it as thick, dark, and cascading. The word's imagery is exclusively tied to this metaphorical description of beauty.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in Song of Solomon 5:11. It appears in a highly poetic context within the Song's series of mutual descriptions between the lovers. Here, the female speaker praises her beloved, saying his hair is 'bushy (taltal), and black as a raven.' Its usage is entirely figurative, contributing to the rich sensory and visual imagery of physical admiration and beauty that characterizes the book.

Etymology

תַּלְתַּל (taltal) is a reduplicated form, created by doubling the root ת־ל־ל (t-l-l). It derives from the verbal root תָּלַל (talal, H8524), which carries the core meaning 'to hang' or 'to be suspended,' and by extension, 'to shake' or 'vibrate.' The reduplication intensifies or mimics the repetitive, dangling motion of something hanging loosely, perfectly fitting the description of swaying locks of hair. Cognates in other Semitic languages also relate to hanging or dripping.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, תַּלְתַּל enriches the reading of Song of Solomon by highlighting the sacredness of embodied, physical beauty within the covenant relationship celebrated in the book. It contributes to the theology of creation, affirming that physical attributes are worthy of poetic praise and are part of God's good design for human love and attraction. Understanding this specific Hebrew word deepens appreciation for the vivid, sensory language the Bible uses to describe marital intimacy as a reflection of divine love. In ancient Near Eastern culture, abundant, well-kept hair was a common symbol of vitality, strength, and beauty. Describing hair as 'taltal' (pendulous/bushy) would evoke an image of lush, healthy, and perhaps wavy or curly hair, which was highly valued. The comparison to a raven's black plumage further emphasizes desirability and striking appearance. This cultural ideal of beauty is captured in the intimate, metaphorical language of the Song. שֵׂעָר (se'ar, H8181) — The generic term for 'hair' or 'fur,' whereas תַּלְתַּל specifies its pendulous, flowing quality. מַחְלָפָה (machlaphah, H4253) — A 'lock' or 'braid' of hair, focusing on a plaited section rather than its dangling motion.

Word Details