Song of Solomon 3:10

He has made its posts of silver, its base of gold, its seat of purple fabric. Its interior is inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem.

Study Bible

He made its posts of silver
The "posts of silver" symbolize strength and purity. Silver, in biblical times, was often associated with redemption and refinement. The Hebrew word for silver, "keseph," also implies longing or desire, which aligns with the themes of love and yearning in the Song of Solomon. The posts being made of silver suggest a foundation of purity and enduring strength in the relationship being described.

its base of gold
Gold represents divinity, value, and kingship throughout Scripture. The Hebrew word "zahab" for gold is often used in contexts of wealth and divine presence. The base being of gold indicates that the foundation of this love is not only pure but also divine and precious. It reflects the ultimate value and eternal nature of true love, as ordained by God.

its seat of purple
Purple is a color traditionally associated with royalty and nobility. The Hebrew word "argaman" for purple dye was rare and costly, often reserved for kings and high priests. The seat being of purple suggests a royal dignity and honor in the relationship. It elevates the love described to a status of regal importance, indicating that this love is both noble and majestic.

its interior inlaid with love
The phrase "inlaid with love" speaks to the depth and intricacy of the relationship. The Hebrew word "ahavah" for love is rich with meaning, encompassing affection, friendship, and deep emotional bonds. The interior being inlaid with love suggests that the core of this relationship is filled with genuine, heartfelt devotion. It is not merely an external display but an internal reality, crafted with care and intention.

by the daughters of Jerusalem
The "daughters of Jerusalem" are often seen as witnesses or participants in the unfolding love story. In the cultural and historical context, they represent the community or society that observes and sometimes facilitates the relationship. Their involvement in inlaying the interior with love suggests a communal recognition and celebration of this love. It highlights the importance of community in nurturing and acknowledging the beauty of a godly relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The presumed author and central figure in the Song of Solomon, often seen as a representation of Christ in allegorical interpretations.

2. Daughters of Jerusalem
A group of women in the Song of Solomon who often serve as witnesses to the love between the bride and bridegroom, symbolizing the community of believers.

3. The Bride
Represents the church or the individual believer in allegorical interpretations, deeply loved by the bridegroom.

4. The Bridegroom
Represents Christ in allegorical interpretations, expressing deep love and commitment to the bride.

5. Jerusalem
The city often symbolizes the dwelling place of God and His people, representing spiritual significance and community.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Materials
The use of silver, gold, and purple in the chariot symbolizes purity, royalty, and wealth. As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect the purity and royalty of our identity in Christ.

Love as a Foundation
The interior of the chariot is inlaid with love, emphasizing that love should be the foundation of all our relationships, especially our relationship with Christ.

Community Involvement
The daughters of Jerusalem's involvement in the chariot's creation highlights the importance of community in our spiritual journey. We are called to build each other up in love and good works.

Christ's Love for the Church
The detailed and precious construction of the chariot reflects Christ's deep love and care for His church. We are reminded of the value and worth we have in His eyes.

Preparation for the Bridegroom
Just as the chariot is prepared for the bridegroom, we are to prepare our hearts and lives for Christ's return, living in holiness and expectation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the materials used in the construction of the chariot (silver, gold, purple) reflect our identity and calling as believers?

2. In what ways can we ensure that love is the foundation of our relationships, both with God and others?

3. How does the involvement of the daughters of Jerusalem in the chariot's creation inspire us to engage with our faith community?

4. What parallels can we draw between the love depicted in Song of Solomon and Christ's love for the church as described in Ephesians 5:25-27?

5. How can we actively prepare our hearts and lives for the return of Christ, as symbolized by the preparation of the chariot for the bridegroom?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:10-22
The construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which also involved gold and precious materials, symbolizing God's covenant and presence with His people.

Revelation 21:18-21
The description of the New Jerusalem, adorned with gold and precious stones, reflecting the glory and beauty of God's eternal kingdom.

Proverbs 31:22
The virtuous woman is clothed in fine linen and purple, symbolizing dignity and worth, similar to the seat of purple in the chariot.

1 Corinthians 3:12-15
The use of gold, silver, and precious stones in building upon the foundation of Christ, emphasizing the value of spiritual work and purity.

Ephesians 5:25-27
Christ's love for the church, paralleling the love and care depicted in the Song of Solomon.