Song of Solomon 6:2

My beloved has gone down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to pasture his flock in the gardens and to gather lilies.

Study Bible

My beloved
This phrase is a term of endearment and intimacy, reflecting the deep love and affection between the Shulammite woman and her lover, often interpreted as a representation of Christ and His church. The Hebrew word for "beloved" is "דּוֹדִי" (dodi), which conveys a sense of cherished companionship and deep relational connection. In a spiritual context, it reminds believers of the personal and intimate relationship they are invited to have with Christ.

has gone down
The action of "going down" suggests movement and purpose. In the Hebrew context, "יָרַד" (yarad) can imply descending or moving towards a specific goal. This movement can symbolize Christ's incarnation, His coming down from heaven to earth to dwell among humanity, and His continual presence in the lives of believers.

to his garden
The "garden" is a recurring motif in the Song of Solomon, symbolizing a place of beauty, growth, and intimacy. The Hebrew word "גַּן" (gan) refers to a cultivated area, often enclosed, representing the church or the soul of the believer where Christ delights to dwell. It is a place of nurturing and flourishing, where the relationship between Christ and His followers is cultivated.

to the beds of spices
"Beds of spices" evoke imagery of fragrance and richness, suggesting a place of delight and abundance. The Hebrew "עֲרוּגוֹת הַבֹּשֶׂם" (arugot habosem) indicates carefully tended plots filled with aromatic plants. This can symbolize the virtues and graces cultivated in the life of a believer, pleasing to Christ and reflective of His character.

to graze in the gardens
The act of "grazing" implies sustenance and satisfaction. The Hebrew "לִרְעוֹת" (lir'ot) can mean to feed or shepherd, suggesting Christ's role as the Good Shepherd who tends to His flock. The "gardens" represent the community of believers, where Christ finds joy and fulfillment in their spiritual growth and fellowship.

and gather lilies
"Lilies" are often associated with purity and beauty. The Hebrew "לִלְקוֹט שׁוֹשַׁנִּים" (lilqot shoshanim) suggests the act of collecting or gathering these flowers, symbolizing Christ's desire to gather His people, who are pure and beautiful in His sight. Lilies can also represent the virtues and righteous acts of the saints, which are precious to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
In the context of the Song of Solomon, the "beloved" often refers to the male lover, traditionally understood as King Solomon. In a broader spiritual sense, he can be seen as a representation of Christ, the Bridegroom of the Church.

2. The Garden
Symbolically, the garden represents a place of intimacy and beauty. It is a private space where the beloved and the lover meet, akin to the spiritual relationship between Christ and the believer.

3. Beds of Spices
These are areas within the garden filled with aromatic plants. They symbolize the richness and variety of the relationship, as well as the spiritual fruits and virtues cultivated in the life of a believer.

4. Lilies
Lilies are often associated with purity and beauty. In the context of the Song of Solomon, they can symbolize the purity and beauty of love, as well as the virtues of the Church or the believer.

Teaching Points

Intimacy with Christ
Just as the beloved goes to the garden, believers are called to seek intimate fellowship with Christ. This involves setting aside time for prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word.

Cultivating Spiritual Fruits
The beds of spices and lilies represent the virtues and fruits of the Spirit that should be cultivated in a believer's life. Regular self-examination and reliance on the Holy Spirit are essential for growth.

The Beauty of Holiness
Lilies symbolize purity and beauty, reminding believers of the call to live holy lives that reflect the character of Christ.

The Pursuit of Love
The beloved's journey to the garden is a pursuit of love. Believers are encouraged to actively pursue a deeper relationship with Christ, prioritizing Him above all else.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the garden in Song of Solomon 6:2 enhance your understanding of intimacy with Christ?

2. In what ways can you cultivate the "beds of spices" or spiritual fruits in your own life?

3. How does the symbolism of lilies challenge you to pursue purity and holiness in your daily walk with God?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. How can the pursuit of the beloved in this verse inspire you to seek Him more earnestly?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as John 15:1-8, deepen your understanding of abiding in Christ and bearing fruit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:8-15
The Garden of Eden as the original place of intimacy between God and man, paralleling the garden imagery in Song of Solomon.

John 15:1-8
Jesus speaks of Himself as the true vine and His followers as branches, emphasizing the importance of abiding in Him, similar to the beloved tending to the garden.

Ephesians 5:25-27
The relationship between Christ and the Church is likened to a marriage, reflecting the intimate and loving relationship depicted in Song of Solomon.