Aijeleth Shahar is a term found in the title of Psalm 22 in the Hebrew Bible. The phrase is often translated as "The Doe of the Dawn" or "The Hind of the Morning." This enigmatic expression has intrigued scholars and theologians, leading to various interpretations regarding its meaning and significance.

Biblical Reference:
The term "Aijeleth Shahar" appears in the superscription of Psalm 22: "For the choirmaster. To the tune of 'The Doe of the Dawn.' A Psalm of David." . This psalm is attributed to King David and is renowned for its prophetic elements, which Christians traditionally associate with the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Interpretations:
1. Musical Notation: Some scholars suggest that "Aijeleth Shahar" refers to a specific melody or musical tune to which the psalm was to be sung. In ancient Israel, it was common for psalms to be set to well-known tunes, and this phrase may indicate such a musical direction.

2. Symbolic Meaning: The imagery of a "doe" or "hind" is often associated with beauty, grace, and swiftness in biblical literature. The "dawn" signifies a time of new beginnings or deliverance. Thus, the phrase could symbolize hope and redemption emerging from a period of suffering or darkness.

3. Messianic Interpretation: From a Christian perspective, Psalm 22 is seen as a messianic psalm, foreshadowing the passion of Christ. The term "Aijeleth Shahar" might metaphorically represent Christ as the innocent and pure "doe" who suffers but ultimately brings the light of salvation at the "dawn" of a new covenant.

Theological Significance:
Psalm 22 is a profound piece of scripture that begins with a cry of abandonment, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1), words echoed by Jesus on the cross (Matthew 27:46). The psalm vividly describes suffering and mockery, yet it transitions into a declaration of trust and praise for God's deliverance. The use of "Aijeleth Shahar" in the title may underscore the transition from despair to hope, aligning with the Christian belief in the resurrection and the ultimate victory over sin and death.

Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, titles and superscriptions of psalms often included musical or liturgical instructions. The precise meaning of many of these terms has been lost over time, but they provide valuable insight into the worship practices and poetic expressions of ancient Israel.

Conclusion:
While the exact meaning of "Aijeleth Shahar" remains uncertain, its presence in the title of Psalm 22 adds a layer of depth to the psalm's rich tapestry of lament and hope. Whether viewed as a musical direction, a symbolic expression, or a messianic foreshadowing, "Aijeleth Shahar" continues to inspire reflection on the themes of suffering, redemption, and divine deliverance.Psalm 22:1
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? why are you so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?
Nave's Topical Index

Aijeleth Shahar

(the hind of the morning dawn), found once only in the Bible, in the title of (Psalms 22:1) It probably describes to the musician the melody to which the psalm was to be played.

The Twenty-Second Psalm.
... And we must not overlook the two Hebrew words the Holy Spirit has put over
this Psalm: Aijeleth Shahar. The margin tells us they ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/the twenty-second psalm.htm

Psalm 22
... Psalm 22. To the chief Musician upon Aijeleth Shahar, A Psalm of David.
8,6,8,6. ^1My God, my God, why hast thou me. forsaken? why so far. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/anonymous/scottish psalter and paraphrases/psalm 22.htm

The Poetical Books.
... meaning "Fair as lilies is thy law," apparently the name of a popular religious
air. Another, probably secular, is over Psalm 22. "Aijeleth Shahar," "The stag ...
/.../gladden/who wrote the bible/chapter vii the poetical books.htm

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