Song of Solomon 1:7

Tell me, O one I love, where do you pasture your sheep? Where do you rest them at midday? Why should I be like a veiled woman beside the flocks of your companions?

Study Bible

Tell me
The phrase "Tell me" is a direct and earnest plea, reflecting the deep longing and desire for communication and understanding. In the Hebrew, the verb used here is "הַגִּידָה" (haggidah), which is an imperative form, indicating a strong request or command. This reflects the urgency and intensity of the speaker's desire to know the whereabouts of the beloved. It underscores the importance of communication in relationships, a theme that resonates throughout the Song of Solomon.

O you whom my soul loves
This expression of deep affection, "O you whom my soul loves," highlights the profound and intimate connection between the speaker and the beloved. The Hebrew word for "soul" is "נֶפֶשׁ" (nephesh), which can denote life, self, or inner being. This indicates that the love described is not merely physical or superficial but encompasses the entire being of the speaker. It is a love that is deeply rooted in the essence of who they are, reflecting the biblical ideal of love that is both passionate and holistic.

where you pasture your flock
The imagery of pasturing a flock is rich with pastoral and shepherding connotations. In ancient Israel, shepherding was a common occupation, and the shepherd was responsible for the care and guidance of the sheep. The Hebrew word "תִּרְעֶה" (tir'eh) means to pasture or tend, suggesting a role of leadership and provision. This metaphor can be seen as a reflection of the beloved's role in providing guidance and sustenance, akin to the way God is often depicted as a shepherd to His people in the Scriptures (e.g., Psalm 23).

where you make it lie down at noon
The phrase "where you make it lie down at noon" suggests a time of rest and safety. In the heat of the day, noon would be a time when the flock would need to rest in a cool, shaded area. The Hebrew word "תַּרְבִּיץ" (tarbitz) means to make lie down, indicating a place of comfort and security. This can be seen as a metaphor for the peace and rest found in the presence of the beloved, and by extension, in the presence of God, who provides rest for the weary soul.

For why should I be like a veiled woman
The reference to being "like a veiled woman" carries cultural and historical significance. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a veiled woman could imply someone who is not fully known or recognized, possibly even suggesting a woman of questionable reputation. The Hebrew word "כְּעֹטְיָה" (ke'otiyah) implies being covered or hidden. The speaker's desire is to be fully known and not to be mistaken for someone who is not in a legitimate relationship with the beloved. This reflects a longing for authenticity and transparency in the relationship.

beside the flocks of your companions
The mention of "the flocks of your companions" suggests a setting where multiple shepherds and their flocks are present. The Hebrew word "חֲבֵרֶיךָ" (chaverecha) means companions or friends. This indicates a communal environment, yet the speaker desires a unique and personal connection with the beloved, distinct from others. It highlights the exclusivity and special nature of their relationship, a theme that is central to the Song of Solomon and to the understanding of covenantal love in the biblical context.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse, often interpreted as the Shulammite woman, expressing her deep love and desire for the shepherd, who is her beloved.

2. The Shepherd
The one whom the Shulammite loves, representing her beloved. In a spiritual allegory, he is often seen as a type of Christ.

3. The Flocks
Symbolic of the people or followers of the shepherd, representing the community or congregation.

4. Veiled Woman
A reference to a woman who might be seen as an outsider or someone not fully belonging to the group, possibly indicating shame or separation.

5. Noon
A time of rest and refreshment, symbolizing a moment of intimacy and closeness with the beloved.

Teaching Points

Desire for Intimacy with Christ
Just as the Shulammite seeks the presence of her beloved, believers are encouraged to seek closeness with Christ, our Good Shepherd.

Identity and Belonging
The concern of being like a "veiled woman" highlights the importance of finding our identity and belonging in Christ, not feeling like outsiders in our spiritual journey.

Rest in Christ
The mention of resting at noon invites believers to find their rest and refreshment in Christ, especially during the heat and trials of life.

Pursuit of God’s Presence
The active seeking of the beloved's location encourages believers to pursue God's presence actively and intentionally in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the shepherd and flock in Song of Solomon 1:7 enhance your understanding of your relationship with Christ?

2. In what ways can you actively seek intimacy with Christ in your daily life, similar to the Shulammite's pursuit of her beloved?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt like an outsider in your faith journey. How can this verse encourage you to find your identity and belonging in Christ?

4. What practical steps can you take to find rest and refreshment in Christ during the "noon" or challenging times of your life?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Psalm 23 and John 10, deepen your understanding of Christ as the Good Shepherd?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 23
The imagery of the shepherd and the flock connects to the Lord as our Shepherd, guiding and providing for His people.

John 10:14-15
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, knowing His sheep and laying down His life for them, paralleling the intimate relationship depicted in Song of Solomon.

Isaiah 40:11
The tender care of the shepherd for his flock is echoed, showing God's gentle and nurturing nature towards His people.