Song of Solomon 6:3

I belong to my beloved and he belongs to me; he pastures his flock among the lilies.

Study Bible

I am my beloved’s
This phrase speaks to the deep, mutual belonging and commitment between the bride and her beloved. The Hebrew word for "beloved" is "דּוֹדִי" (dodi), which conveys a sense of deep affection and intimate relationship. In the context of marriage, this reflects the covenantal bond that mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church. The phrase emphasizes the security and identity found in being wholly loved and cherished by another, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture as God’s people are often described as His beloved.

and my beloved is mine
Here, the reciprocity of love is highlighted. The mutual possession signifies equality and shared devotion. The Hebrew structure suggests a balance and harmony in the relationship, where both parties are fully committed to one another. This mirrors the New Testament teaching of mutual submission and love within the body of Christ (Ephesians 5:21-33). Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of marriage as a partnership, where both individuals are bound by love and duty.

he grazes among the lilies
The imagery of grazing among lilies evokes a pastoral scene of peace and abundance. Lilies, in the Hebrew "שׁוֹשַׁנִּים" (shoshanim), are often associated with beauty and purity. This phrase suggests that the beloved finds sustenance and delight in a place of beauty and purity, symbolizing the nurturing and life-giving nature of true love. In a broader biblical context, lilies can also represent the beauty of creation and God’s provision (Matthew 6:28-29). The pastoral imagery underscores the tranquility and satisfaction found in a loving relationship, akin to the spiritual nourishment believers find in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
In the Song of Solomon, the beloved is often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of Christ in allegorical readings. The beloved is the one who is deeply loved and cherished.

2. The Shulammite Woman
She is the speaker in this verse, expressing her deep, mutual love and belonging with her beloved. She represents the bride or the church in allegorical interpretations.

3. Lilies
Symbolic of purity and beauty, lilies are often used in the Song of Solomon to describe the setting of love and intimacy. They represent the environment where love flourishes.

Teaching Points

Mutual Belonging
The verse emphasizes a reciprocal relationship where both parties belong to each other. In a Christian marriage, this reflects the mutual commitment and love that should exist between spouses.

Christ and the Church
This verse can be seen as an allegory for the relationship between Christ and the Church. Just as the Shulammite woman and her beloved belong to each other, so do Christ and His followers.

Purity and Beauty in Relationships
The imagery of lilies suggests that relationships should be characterized by purity and beauty. Christians are called to cultivate such qualities in their relationships.

Identity in Christ
Understanding our identity as belonging to Christ can transform how we live. Recognizing that we are His and He is ours provides security and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the mutual belonging expressed in Song of Solomon 6:3 reflect the ideal Christian marriage?

2. In what ways can the relationship between the Shulammite woman and her beloved be seen as a representation of the relationship between Christ and the Church?

3. How can the imagery of lilies in this verse inspire us to cultivate purity and beauty in our personal relationships?

4. What does it mean for you personally to belong to Christ, and how does this identity influence your daily life?

5. How can the principles found in Song of Solomon 6:3 be applied to strengthen your relationship with God and others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
This verse speaks of the union between a man and a woman, which parallels the intimate relationship described in Song of Solomon 6:3.

Ephesians 5:25-33
This passage describes the relationship between Christ and the Church, which can be seen as a parallel to the mutual love and belonging expressed in Song of Solomon 6:3.

John 15:4-5
The concept of abiding in Christ and Christ in us reflects the mutual indwelling and belonging expressed in Song of Solomon 6:3.