Song of Solomon 7:1

How beautiful are your sandaled feet, O daughter of the prince! The curves of your thighs are like jewels, the handiwork of a master.

Study Bible

How beautiful
The Hebrew word for "beautiful" here is "יָפֶה" (yafeh), which conveys not just physical beauty but also a sense of harmony and perfection. In the context of the Song of Solomon, this beauty is not merely external but reflects an inner grace and dignity. The use of "how" emphasizes the speaker's admiration and awe, suggesting a beauty that surpasses ordinary standards.

are your sandaled feet
The mention of "sandaled feet" highlights the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, where sandals were common footwear. Sandals symbolize readiness and journey, often associated with dignity and status. In a spiritual sense, feet shod with sandals can represent the readiness to walk in the ways of the Lord, echoing Ephesians 6:15, where believers are encouraged to have their "feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace."

O daughter of royalty
This phrase underscores the noble status of the woman being addressed. The Hebrew term "בַּת־נָדִיב" (bat-nadiv) can be translated as "daughter of a noble" or "princess." It signifies not only her royal lineage but also her inherent worth and dignity. Spiritually, believers are often referred to as children of the King, highlighting their identity and inheritance in Christ.

Your graceful legs
The word "graceful" in Hebrew is "חָמֻקִים" (chamuqim), suggesting elegance and smoothness. Legs, in this context, symbolize strength and stability. The gracefulness of her legs indicates a life lived with poise and purpose, reflecting the inner beauty that comes from a heart aligned with God's will.

are like jewels
Jewels are precious and rare, often used in Scripture to symbolize value and beauty. The comparison of her legs to jewels suggests that her movements and actions are precious and worthy of admiration. This imagery invites believers to consider the value of their own walk with God, striving to live lives that reflect His glory.

the work of a master’s hand
This phrase emphasizes the craftsmanship and intentionality behind her beauty. The "master's hand" refers to a skilled artisan, suggesting that her beauty is not accidental but crafted with care and purpose. In a spiritual sense, it reminds believers that they are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14), crafted by the Creator with a unique purpose and design.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse is often interpreted as the bridegroom, who is expressing admiration for his bride. This reflects the intimate and loving relationship between the two.

2. The Bride
Referred to as "prince’s daughter," she symbolizes beauty, grace, and nobility. This title suggests her esteemed position and the honor bestowed upon her by her beloved.

3. The Setting
The Song of Solomon is a poetic book that celebrates love and marriage. The setting is often seen as a pastoral or royal environment, reflecting the beauty and richness of the relationship.

Teaching Points

The Beauty of Marital Love
Marital love is a gift from God, designed to be celebrated and cherished. The admiration expressed in this verse encourages spouses to appreciate and affirm each other.

The Value of Noble Character
The reference to the bride as a "prince’s daughter" highlights the importance of noble character and dignity. Believers are called to live in a way that reflects their identity as children of God.

The Master’s Hand in Creation
The imagery of the bride’s form as "the work of a master’s hand" reminds us of God’s craftsmanship in creation. We are fearfully and wonderfully made, and this should inspire gratitude and respect for our bodies.

Symbolism of Feet in Sandals
The mention of feet in sandals can symbolize readiness and purpose. As believers, we are called to walk in the ways of the Lord, prepared to share the gospel of peace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the admiration expressed in Song of Solomon 7:1 reflect the biblical view of marriage?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of being a "prince’s daughter" to our identity in Christ?

3. How does the imagery of "the work of a master’s hand" influence our understanding of self-worth and body image?

4. What are some practical ways we can affirm and appreciate our spouses, as seen in the Song of Solomon?

5. How can the symbolism of "feet in sandals" inspire us to live out our faith in daily life, and what other scriptures support this idea?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:23-24
The intimate relationship between the bride and bridegroom in Song of Solomon echoes the union of Adam and Eve, highlighting the sanctity and beauty of marital love.

Ephesians 5:25-33
This passage draws a parallel between the love of Christ for the Church and the love between husband and wife, emphasizing sacrificial love and mutual respect.

Proverbs 31:10-31
The description of the bride's beauty and worth in Song of Solomon can be connected to the virtuous woman in Proverbs, who is valued for her character and strength.