Song of Solomon 4:14

with nard and saffron, with calamus and cinnamon, with every kind of frankincense tree, with myrrh and aloes, with all the finest spices.

Study Bible

with nard and saffron
Nard, also known as spikenard, is a costly aromatic oil derived from a plant native to the Himalayas. It was used in ancient times for anointing and perfuming, symbolizing luxury and devotion. Saffron, a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, is known for its vibrant color and distinct aroma. Both nard and saffron are indicative of the richness and opulence of the bride's beauty and the love shared between the bride and groom. In the New Testament, nard is notably used by Mary to anoint Jesus' feet (John 12:3), symbolizing worship and sacrifice.

with calamus and cinnamon
Calamus, a fragrant reed, was used in the sacred anointing oil described in Exodus 30:23-25, signifying its importance in worship and consecration. Cinnamon, a spice obtained from the inner bark of trees, was also part of the holy anointing oil and was highly valued for its fragrance and preservative qualities. These spices highlight the sacred and cherished nature of the relationship, drawing parallels to the sanctity of worship and the offering of one's life to God.

with every kind of frankincense tree
Frankincense, a resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, was a key component in the incense used in temple worship (Exodus 30:34). It represents prayer and the presence of God, as its smoke ascends to heaven. The mention of "every kind" suggests abundance and variety, emphasizing the completeness and richness of the love described. Frankincense is also associated with the gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi (Matthew 2:11), symbolizing His priestly role.

with myrrh and aloes
Myrrh, a resin used for anointing and embalming, signifies suffering and sacrifice, as it was one of the gifts given to Jesus at His birth (Matthew 2:11) and used at His burial (John 19:39). Aloes, derived from the wood of certain trees, were used for their fragrance and preservative properties. Together, myrrh and aloes suggest themes of love enduring through trials and the eternal nature of the bond, reflecting Christ's sacrificial love for His church.

with all the finest spices
The phrase "all the finest spices" encapsulates the idea of completeness and perfection. It suggests that the love and beauty described are unparalleled and all-encompassing. In a broader biblical context, spices often symbolize the richness of God's blessings and the depth of spiritual devotion. This imagery can be seen as a type of the ultimate union between Christ and His bride, the Church, where every spiritual blessing is bestowed (Ephesians 1:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of the Song of Solomon, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom and wealth. The book is often seen as an allegory of Christ's love for the Church.

2. The Beloved
The female protagonist in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as representing the Church or the individual believer in a spiritual allegory.

3. Spices and Aromatics
The verse lists various spices and aromatics, which were highly valued in ancient times for their fragrance and use in anointing and worship.

4. Ancient Near East
The cultural and geographical context of the Song of Solomon, where spices and perfumes were significant in trade and daily life.

5. Garden Imagery
The use of garden imagery in the Song of Solomon symbolizes beauty, fertility, and the intimate relationship between the lovers, often seen as a metaphor for the relationship between God and His people.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Spices
The spices mentioned symbolize the richness and depth of love. In a spiritual sense, they represent the diverse and pleasing aspects of a believer's relationship with Christ.

Worship and Devotion
Just as spices were used in worship, our lives should be a fragrant offering to God, characterized by devotion and purity.

Christ's Love for the Church
The beauty and value of the spices reflect the preciousness of Christ's love for His Church, encouraging believers to cherish and nurture their relationship with Him.

Spiritual Growth
The variety of spices can symbolize the different aspects of spiritual growth and maturity, encouraging believers to cultivate a well-rounded faith.

Intimacy with God
The intimate and personal nature of the imagery invites believers to seek a deeper, more personal relationship with God, akin to the closeness of the lovers in the Song of Solomon.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the spices mentioned in Song of Solomon 4:14 enhance your understanding of the value and beauty of love in a spiritual context?

2. In what ways can the use of spices in ancient worship practices inform our modern approach to worship and devotion?

3. How does the imagery of a garden in the Song of Solomon inspire you to cultivate your personal relationship with God?

4. What parallels can you draw between the use of myrrh and aloes in the Song of Solomon and their use in the burial of Jesus?

5. How can the diverse qualities of the spices in this verse encourage you to pursue a balanced and mature spiritual life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30
The use of spices in the anointing oil and incense for the Tabernacle connects to the sacred and worshipful connotations of the spices mentioned in Song of Solomon 4:14.

John 19
The use of myrrh and aloes in the burial of Jesus highlights the significance of these spices in both life and death, symbolizing honor and reverence.

Revelation 5
The imagery of incense in worship before the throne of God connects to the idea of prayers and worship being a fragrant offering to God.