ROSE . 1. chăbazzeleth [Heb.], Song of Solomon 2:1 [‘ rose of Sharon ’], Isaiah 35:1 . All authorities are agreed that the tr. [Note: translate or translation.] ‘rose’ adopted in the EV [Note: English Version.] is incorrect. The chăbazzeleth appears to have been a bulbed flower. The RVm [Note: Revised Version margin.] suggests ‘autumn crocus’ ( Colchicum autumnale ); on the other hand, many good authorities suggest the much more striking and sweeter-scented plant the narcissus, which is a great favourite to-day in Palestine. Two species are known N. Tazetta and N. serotinus . In Wis 2:8 , Sir 24:14; Sir 39:13; Sir 50:8 we have mention of rhodon (Gr.). Whether this is, as Tristram maintains, the Rhododendron or the true rose is uncertain; both occur in parts of Palestine.
E. W. G. Masterman.