Song of Solomon 8:14

Come away, my beloved, and be like a gazelle or a young stag on the mountains of spices.

Study Bible

Come away
The phrase "Come away" is an invitation, a call to action and movement. In the Hebrew, the word used here can imply a sense of urgency or longing. This reflects the deep desire of the bride for her beloved to join her. In a spiritual context, it can be seen as the soul's yearning for communion with God, urging believers to leave behind worldly distractions and draw closer to divine presence. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern tradition of lovers seeking solitude in nature, away from the constraints of society.

my beloved
The term "my beloved" is a term of endearment, indicating a deep, personal, and intimate relationship. In Hebrew, the word used is "dodi," which conveys affection and love. This reflects the covenantal love between God and His people, as well as the love between Christ and the Church. Theologically, it emphasizes the personal nature of God's love for each individual believer, inviting them into a relationship that is both intimate and transformative.

and be like a gazelle or a young stag
The imagery of a "gazelle or a young stag" is rich with symbolism. In the ancient world, these animals were known for their grace, speed, and beauty. The Hebrew words used here highlight these qualities, suggesting a sense of vitality and freedom. Spiritually, this can be interpreted as a call for the beloved to approach with eagerness and readiness, embodying the qualities of swiftness and grace in responding to love. It also reflects the idea of Christ as the Bridegroom, who comes swiftly and with purpose to His bride, the Church.

on the mountains of spices
"Mountains of spices" evokes a sense of exotic beauty and abundance. In the Hebrew context, spices were valuable and often associated with wealth and luxury. This phrase suggests a place of delight and fulfillment, a metaphor for the ultimate union and joy found in the presence of God. Historically, mountains were seen as places of divine encounter, and the addition of spices enhances the sense of sacredness and allure. For believers, it represents the promise of eternal joy and communion with God, a place where love is fully realized and celebrated.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse is the Shulammite woman, who represents the bride in the Song of Solomon. She is calling to her beloved, who symbolizes her husband or, allegorically, Christ in the Christian tradition.

2. The Gazelle or Young Stag
These animals are often used in biblical poetry to symbolize swiftness, beauty, and vitality. They represent the beloved's desirable and vigorous nature.

3. Mountains of Spices
This imagery evokes a place of beauty, fragrance, and abundance. It symbolizes a place of intimacy and delight, possibly representing the consummation of love or spiritual communion.

Teaching Points

Intimacy in Marriage
This verse highlights the importance of pursuing and maintaining intimacy in marriage. Just as the Shulammite calls her beloved, couples should actively seek closeness and connection.

Spiritual Yearning
The call to "come away" can also be seen as a metaphor for our spiritual journey. Believers are invited to pursue a deeper relationship with Christ, seeking Him with the same eagerness and passion.

Beauty and Vitality in Relationships
The imagery of the gazelle and stag reminds us of the beauty and vitality that should characterize our relationships, both marital and spiritual.

The Pursuit of Holiness
The "mountains of spices" can symbolize the pursuit of holiness and the sweet aroma of a life lived in obedience to God. Believers are called to ascend these mountains in their spiritual walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of a gazelle or young stag enhance our understanding of the nature of love in this passage?

2. In what ways can married couples today "come away" to nurture their relationship, both physically and spiritually?

3. How does the call to "come away" reflect our spiritual journey and relationship with Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate the "mountains of spices" in our own lives, representing a life of holiness and devotion?

5. How can the themes of longing and pursuit in Song of Solomon 8:14 inspire us to deepen our relationship with God and others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:24
The call for the beloved to "come away" echoes the biblical theme of leaving and cleaving, where a man leaves his family to be united with his wife, highlighting the intimate bond of marriage.

Psalm 42:1
The imagery of the gazelle can be connected to the psalmist's longing for God, as a deer pants for water, illustrating a deep spiritual yearning.

Revelation 19:7-9
The marriage of the Lamb and His bride in Revelation parallels the intimate and celebratory nature of the relationship depicted in Song of Solomon.