Aijeleth Shahar
“Hind of the dawn”
Summary
A Hebrew phrase meaning "hind of the dawn" appearing in the title of Psalm 22, likely indicating a melody or song to which the psalm was to be sung.
☩Meaning and Usage
The phrase "Aijeleth Shahar" occurs exclusively in the title of Psalm 22 and derives from the Hebrew meaning "hind of the dawn" or "hind of the morning." Scholars generally agree that this inscription indicates the name of another poem or well-known song to whose measure or melody this psalm was to be performed, following the manner of Syriac poets. The phrase may have been borrowed from either the opening words of such a song or from some prominent expression within it.
☩Interpretations
Several interpretations have been proposed for this enigmatic phrase. Some suggest it refers to the hunting of deer at early daylight, the most favorable time for the chase. Others connect it to Arabic and rabbinical usage where the rays of the rising sun are compared to a stag's horns. The Targum interprets it as referring to "the morning oblation of the lamb," which stands in contrast to the "bulls of Bashan" and "dogs" that surround the suffering victim in the psalm. Still others have understood it to denote a musical instrument or the morning star.
☩Messianic Significance
Given that Psalm 22 is recognized as a profound messianic prophecy detailing Christ's suffering, some interpreters see spiritual significance in this title. The hind may symbolize a lovely and innocent one hounded to death by persecutors depicted as bulls, lions, and dogs. The "morning dawn" then represents the joy that bursts forth after affliction, alluding to the Messiah's deep sorrow giving way to triumphant joy. This interpretation suggests the title points to Christ's resurrection as the "dawn" following the darkness of the crucifixion.
Related Verses1 mention
Psalms· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Aijeleth Shahar," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.George Morrish, "Aijeleth Shahar," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 3.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Aijeleth Shahar," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 4.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Aijeleth Shahar," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).