Song of Solomon 4:2

Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn sheep coming up from the washing; each has its twin, and not one of them is lost.

Study Bible

Your teeth
In the context of ancient Near Eastern poetry, teeth often symbolize beauty and strength. The Hebrew word for teeth, "shen," can also imply sharpness and effectiveness. In this verse, the teeth are compared to a flock, suggesting uniformity and order. This imagery reflects the bride's beauty and the perfection of her character, as seen through the eyes of her beloved.

are like a flock of newly shorn sheep
The comparison to "newly shorn sheep" emphasizes purity and renewal. In ancient Israel, sheep were a valuable commodity, and their wool was a symbol of wealth and provision. The act of shearing and washing sheep would leave them clean and white, symbolizing purity and innocence. This imagery suggests that the bride's beauty is fresh and unblemished, much like the church is seen as pure and holy in the eyes of Christ.

coming up from the washing
The phrase "coming up from the washing" further emphasizes the idea of cleanliness and renewal. In biblical times, washing was a significant act of purification, often associated with spiritual cleansing. This imagery can be seen as a metaphor for the sanctification process, where believers are cleansed and made new through their relationship with Christ.

each one bearing twins
The phrase "each one bearing twins" suggests abundance and completeness. In the Hebrew culture, twins were often seen as a double blessing. This imagery implies that the bride's beauty is not only perfect but also abundant and overflowing. Spiritually, this can be seen as a reflection of the abundant life promised to believers in Christ.

and not one has lost her young
This phrase highlights the idea of preservation and care. In the context of the verse, it suggests that the bride's beauty is intact and well-maintained. Historically, losing young sheep would be a loss to the shepherd, so this imagery conveys a sense of protection and divine care. Spiritually, it can be seen as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His people, ensuring that none are lost from His flock.

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. He is often seen as a type of Christ in his role as a bridegroom.

2. The Bride
The beloved in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as a representation of the Church or the individual believer in a relationship with Christ.

3. Sheep
In the context of ancient Israel, sheep were a common agricultural asset, symbolizing purity and value. The imagery of sheep is used to convey beauty and order.

4. Shorn Sheep
The act of shearing sheep implies a process of cleansing and renewal, which can symbolize spiritual purification.

5. Twins
The mention of twins suggests completeness and perfection, indicating that nothing is lacking.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Purity
The imagery of washed and shorn sheep highlights the importance of spiritual purity. Just as the sheep are cleansed, believers are called to live lives that are purified by the Word and Spirit.

Completeness in Christ
The reference to twins and none being lost speaks to the completeness and perfection found in a relationship with Christ. Believers are made whole in Him.

Value and Beauty in God's Eyes
The detailed description of the bride's teeth reflects the value and beauty God sees in His people. Each believer is precious and uniquely crafted by God.

Unity and Order
The orderly and complete nature of the flock symbolizes the unity and order that should characterize the body of Christ. Believers are called to live in harmony and unity.

Renewal and Transformation
The process of shearing and washing sheep can be seen as a metaphor for the renewal and transformation that occurs in the life of a believer through sanctification.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of shorn and washed sheep in Song of Solomon 4:2 relate to the concept of spiritual purity in your life?

2. In what ways can the completeness and perfection symbolized by "twins" be reflected in your relationship with Christ?

3. How does understanding your value and beauty in God's eyes, as depicted in this verse, impact your self-image and daily walk with God?

4. What steps can you take to promote unity and order within your local church community, reflecting the orderly nature of the flock?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced spiritual renewal. How can the process of shearing and washing sheep serve as a metaphor for that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
The imagery of washing and cleansing connects to David's plea for purification and renewal of spirit.

Ephesians 5
The relationship between Christ and the Church is likened to a marriage, emphasizing purity and holiness.

1 Peter 2
Believers are described as a chosen people, called to live in holiness, reflecting the purity symbolized by the shorn sheep.