Bible Dictionary
RUDDY
Ruddy means reddish or having a clear, healthy complexion. In biblical descriptions it is used as a term of praise for human appearance.
Definition
Ruddy means reddish or red-complexioned. In biblical descriptions it is a favorable term for the appearance of human skin, conveying a clear or healthy complexion rather than an unfavorable discoloration.
Biblical Usage
The term describes human appearance in passages concerning Esau, David, and the beloved in the Song of Solomon. It functions as a term of praise for a clear complexion.
Historical Background
The Hebrew and Greek words are ordinary terms for red or becoming red. The dark-skinned Hebrews regarded a clear complexion as a mark of beauty.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>rud'-i ('adhmoni (1Sa 16:12; 17:42; Ge 25:25 the Revised Version margin), 'adhom (So 5:10); verbs 'adham (La 4:7), and eruthriao, "to blush" (Ad Es 15:5)): "Ruddy" is the form taken by the adjective "red" when used as a term of praise of the human skin, and this is its use in the Bible (the Hebrew and Greek words are all usual words for "red" or "to be red"). The dark-skinned Hebrews found great beauty in a clear complexion.</p>