Bible Dictionary
IVORY, TOWER OF
The Tower of Ivory is a poetic comparison for the Shulammite’s neck in the Song of Solomon. It may refer to an actual landmark, but more probably is simply a figure expressing whiteness and stateliness.
Definition
The Tower of Ivory is a poetic comparison for the Shulammite’s neck. Ivory conveys whiteness, while the tower suggests stateliness and dignity. Although the wording may point to an actual tower, it is more probably a figurative expression.
Biblical Usage
The phrase occurs in the Song of Solomon as part of the description of the Shulammite’s beauty.
Historical Background
The definite article may suggest a known tower in or near Jerusalem, but the supplied material regards a simple poetic figure as more likely.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>(mighdal hashen): In So 7:4 the neck of the Shulammite is compared in whiteness and stateliness to a (or the) tower of ivory. The definite article may suggest that the comparison is with some actual tower in or near Jerusalem; but more probably the language is simply a figure.</p>