Tower Of Ivory
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Tower Of Ivory in the Bible?
The phrase 'tower of ivory' appears in Song of Solomon 7:4 as a simile for the beloved's neck; textual criticism suggests the Hebrew term may be a corruption of 'Shenir,' a name for Mount Hermon, or refer to an ivory-adorned furniture piece.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the textual variants and material culture context of this verse clarifies the poetic imagery used to describe physical beauty in ancient Near Eastern literature.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Tower Of Ivory were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Tower Of Ivory in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Tower Of Ivory clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Song of Solomon 7:4
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Tower Of Ivory." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/tower-of-ivory/