◄ Song of Solomon 3 ►
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The Bride’s Dream 1On my bed at night I sought the one I love; I sought him, but did not find him. 2I will arise now and go about the city, through the streets and squares. I will seek the one I love. So I sought him but did not find him. 3I encountered the watchmen on their rounds of the city: “Have you seen the one I love?” 4I had just passed them when I found the one I love. I held him and would not let go until I had brought him to my mother’s house, to the chamber of the one who conceived me. 5O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you by the gazelles and does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right. Solomon Arrives on His Wedding Day 6Who is this coming up from the wilderness like a column of smoke, scented with myrrh and frankincense from all the spices of the merchant? 7Behold, it is Solomon’s carriage,a escorted by sixty of the mightiest men of Israel. 8All are skilled with the sword, experienced in warfare. Each has his sword at his side prepared for the terror of the night. 9King Solomon has made his carriage out of the timber of Lebanon. 10He has made its posts of silver, its base of gold, its seat of purple fabric. Its interior is inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem. 11Come out, O daughters of Zion, and gaze at King Solomon, wearing the crown with which his mother crowned him on the day of his wedding— the day of his heart’s rejoicing. Footnotes: 7 a That is, the couch on which servants carry a king Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Song of Solomon 3 Summary The Bride's Dream Verses 1–4 – Restless Longing and Joyful Reunion The bride recounts a sleepless night, yearning for her beloved. She searches the streets, finds him, clings to him, and brings him home. Verse 5 – A Call to Patience She adjures the “daughters of Jerusalem” not to awaken love before its proper time. Verses 6–8 – The Royal Procession A dramatic scene appears: Solomon approaches with a column of smoke, surrounded by armed guards. Verses 9–11 – The Bridal Escort and Charge Solomon’s palanquin—fashioned of cedar, silver, and gold—carries the bride. The daughters of Zion are urged to behold the king wearing the crown given on his wedding day, the joy of his heart. Song of Solomon Chapter 3 is a beautifully poetic exploration of the profound longing that can exist between two individuals in love. In this chapter, the Shulammite woman vividly recounts her dreamlike quest for her beloved, culminating in a grand royal procession that symbolizes the sacredness and celebration of marital union. Through its lyrical imagery and passionate expressions of love, Chapter 3 encapsulates the very essence of human desire, love's intensity, and the spiritual allegories often tied to divine love. Authorship and Setting Tradition attributes the Song to King Solomon (1 Kings 4:32). Chapter 3 likely paints two separate scenes: an intimate nighttime search in Jerusalem (vv. 1–4) and a public royal procession (vv. 6–11). The time frame fits Solomon’s reign in the 10th century BC when lavish bridal processions and cedar construction were common (1 Kings 10:21–27). Themes of Love and Covenant • Mutual pursuit: The bride seeks; the groom later arrives with grandeur. • Security: Armed men protect the palanquin, mirroring God’s protective love (Psalm 34:7). • Patience: The refrain of verse 5 echoes earlier (2:7) and later (8:4), underscoring restraint until marriage. The Shulammite’s Nocturnal Search (3:1–4) “On my bed at night I sought the one my soul loves… I found him; I would not let him go” (Songs 3:1, 4). • Emotional reality: Restless nights reveal genuine longing, not mere fantasy. • Public pursuit: She ventures into the city—unusual for an ancient Near-Eastern woman—highlighting determination. • Spiritual echo: Similar to believers seeking God (Psalm 63:1; Jeremiah 29:13). The Charge to the Daughters of Jerusalem (3:5) “I adjure you… do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires”. • Repetition marks importance. • Teaches self-control, guarding affection until covenant commitment (Proverbs 4:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–4). Solomon’s Bridal Procession (3:6–11) Verse 6: “Who is this coming up from the wilderness like a column of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense…?” • Incense echoes Exodus 30:34–38, linking love with sacred fragrance. • Sixty warriors guard the king (v. 7), symbolizing strength (Psalm 45:3–5). • Palanquin materials: – Cedar from Lebanon—durable, aromatic (1 Kings 5:6). – Silver base—purity. – Gold pillars—royalty. – Purple seat—nobility (Judges 8:26). • Verse 11: The wedding crown reflects festive coronations (Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 19:7). Practical Lessons for Marriage 1. Pursue each other—emotional investment matters after vows are spoken. 2. Provide security—physical, emotional, spiritual. 3. Celebrate covenant moments—anniversaries, memories, milestones. 4. Value purity and patience—God’s design brings joy in due season. Prophetic Echoes and Messianic Hints • The bride searching at night foreshadows Mary Magdalene seeking the risen Christ in the garden (John 20:11–18). • The king’s procession anticipates Christ’s triumphant entry (Matthew 21:5) and His future return with angelic hosts (Revelation 19:11-16). Archaeological Notes • Cedar and cypress beams from Lebanon have been excavated in Phoenician ports, confirming trade routes used by Solomon (1 Kings 5:9). • Ancient Egyptian palanquins, painted with gold and silver inlays, parallel the Song’s description. • Myrrh and frankincense resins were imported via the Arabian Incense Route; storage jars marked “for myrrh” were found at Ezion-geber, Solomon’s port on the Red Sea. Connections to the New Testament • Self-giving love: Ephesians 5:25–28 calls husbands to love “as Christ loved the church,” reflecting Solomon’s protective actions. • Purity before marriage: Hebrews 13:4 honors the marriage bed, echoing the refrain of verse 5. • Crown of joy: 1 Peter 5:4 promises an unfading crown, tying to Solomon’s wedding crown (v. 11). Literary Devices and Structure • Refrain: “Do not arouse… love” frames major sections (2:7; 3:5; 8:4). • Imagery: Fragrance, night, guards, and royal metals create multisensory texture. • Dialogue shift: First-person narrative (vv. 1–4) turns to third-person admiration (vv. 6–11), heightening anticipation. Summary Takeaways Song 3 moves from private yearning to public celebration, reminding couples—and all believers—of the journey from earnest seeking to joyful union under God’s watchful care. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 63:1 O God, You are my God; earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You. This verse echoes the bride's longing for her beloved. Matthew 7:7 Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. This encourages persistent seeking of God. Ephesians 5:25-27 This passage describes Christ's love for the Church, paralleling the love depicted in Song of Solomon. Revelation 19:7-9 The marriage supper of the Lamb celebrates the ultimate union of Christ and His Church. Teaching Points The Search for Love The bride's search for her beloved in the night (Song of Solomon 3:1-2) symbolizes the soul's deep longing for communion with Christ. It highlights the importance of seeking God earnestly and persistently. The Role of Community The bride's interaction with the watchmen (Song of Solomon 3:3) suggests the role of spiritual leaders and community in guiding and supporting us in our spiritual journey. The Joy of Finding The bride's joy upon finding her beloved (Song of Solomon 3:4) reflects the fulfillment and peace that comes from encountering Christ and being in His presence. The Security of Love The imagery of Solomon's carriage and the mighty men (Song of Solomon 3:7-8) represents the protection and security found in a committed relationship, both in marriage and with Christ. The Celebration of Union The wedding procession (Song of Solomon 3:11) symbolizes the joyous celebration of love and union, pointing to the ultimate union of Christ and His Church. Practical Applications Seek God Diligently Just as the bride searched for her beloved, we should earnestly seek a deeper relationship with Christ through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. Value Spiritual Community Engage with and seek guidance from spiritual mentors and community, recognizing their role in our spiritual growth and journey. Rejoice in Christ's Presence Find joy and contentment in the presence of Christ, knowing that He fulfills our deepest longings and desires. Embrace Commitment Whether in marriage or in our relationship with Christ, embrace the security and protection that comes from a committed and faithful relationship. Celebrate Spiritual Milestones Just as weddings are celebrated, take time to celebrate spiritual milestones and growth in your walk with Christ. People 1. The Shulammite Woman She is the primary speaker in this chapter, expressing her longing and search for her beloved. Her voice is prominent in verses 1-4, where she describes her quest to find him. The Hebrew root for "Shulammite" (שׁוּלַמִּית) suggests a connection to peace or completeness, akin to the name Solomon (שְׁלֹמֹה). 2. The Beloved Although not directly speaking in this chapter, he is the object of the Shulammite's affection and search. He is described in her narrative as the one she seeks and eventually finds. The beloved is often interpreted as a representation of Solomon or a symbolic figure of love. 3. The Watchmen Mentioned in verse 3, they are the city guards whom the Shulammite encounters during her search. They are described as those who "make the rounds in the city." The Hebrew term for watchmen (שֹׁמְרִים) implies guardianship or vigilance. 4. The Daughters of Jerusalem Referenced indirectly in verse 5, they are the audience to whom the Shulammite addresses her charge not to awaken love until it desires. They are often seen as a chorus or collective group of women who witness and respond to the unfolding love story. 5. King Solomon Mentioned in verses 7 and 11, he is depicted in a royal procession, highlighting his grandeur and the splendor of his entourage. The Hebrew name Solomon (שְׁלֹמֹה) is derived from the root word for peace (שָׁלוֹם). Places 1. The Streets and Squares In Song of Solomon 3:2, the bride says, "I will arise now and go about the city, through the streets and squares; I will search for the one my soul loves." The streets and squares represent the public areas of the city where the bride searches for her beloved. The Hebrew word for "streets" (חוּצוֹת, chutzot) and "squares" (רְחֹבוֹת, rechovot) suggest open, communal spaces, indicating her earnest and public search. 2. The City The city is mentioned in Song of Solomon 3:2 as the broader setting for the bride's search. The city (עִיר, ir in Hebrew) symbolizes a place of community and civilization, reflecting the structured and populated environment where the bride seeks her beloved. 3. The Bed of Solomon In Song of Solomon 3:7, the text states, "Behold, it is Solomon’s carriage, escorted by sixty warriors from the mighty of Israel." The "bed" or "carriage" (מִטָּה, mittah in Hebrew) is a symbol of royal splendor and protection, representing the opulence and security associated with King Solomon. Events 1. The Bride's Nighttime Search The chapter begins with the bride expressing her longing for her beloved. She says, "On my bed at night I sought the one I love; I sought him, but did not find him" (Song of Solomon 3:1). This reflects a deep yearning and desire for closeness, symbolizing the soul's search for divine intimacy. 2. The Bride's Search in the City The bride decides to rise and search for her beloved throughout the city. "I will arise now and go about the city, through its streets and squares. I will seek the one I love" (Song of Solomon 3:2). This action signifies a proactive pursuit of spiritual fulfillment and connection. 3. Encounter with the Watchmen As she searches, the bride encounters the watchmen. "I found the watchmen on their rounds of the city: 'Have you seen the one I love?'" (Song of Solomon 3:3). The watchmen can be seen as spiritual guides or leaders who assist in the search for truth and love. 4. Finding the Beloved Shortly after passing the watchmen, the bride finds her beloved. "I had just passed them when I found the one I love. I held him and would not let him go" (Song of Solomon 3:4). This represents the joy and fulfillment of finding spiritual union and the determination to maintain that connection. 5. Bringing the Beloved Home The bride brings her beloved to her mother's house. "I brought him to my mother’s house, to the chamber of the one who conceived me" (Song of Solomon 3:4). This act symbolizes bringing divine love into the most intimate and foundational aspects of one's life. 6. Adjuration to the Daughters of Jerusalem The bride charges the daughters of Jerusalem not to awaken love until it desires. "Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right" (Song of Solomon 3:5). This serves as a caution to respect the natural timing and sanctity of love. 7. The Procession of Solomon's Carriage The scene shifts to a grand procession, describing Solomon's carriage. "Who is this coming up from the wilderness like a column of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense?" (Song of Solomon 3:6). This imagery evokes the majesty and splendor of divine love and wisdom. 8. Description of Solomon's Carriage The carriage is described in detail, emphasizing its grandeur and the presence of mighty warriors. "Behold, it is Solomon’s carriage, escorted by sixty warriors from the noblest of Israel" (Song of Solomon 3:7). This symbolizes the strength and protection that accompanies divine love. 9. The Crowned King The chapter concludes with a call to witness King Solomon wearing the crown his mother gave him. "Go out, O daughters of Zion, and gaze on King Solomon, wearing the crown his mother bestowed on the day of his wedding" (Song of Solomon 3:11). This represents the celebration of love and the joy of a sacred union. Lessons from Song of Solomon 3 1. The Power of Seeking Love In Song of Solomon 3:1, we see the bride searching for her beloved, "On my bed at night I sought the one I love; I sought him, but did not find him." This verse reminds us of the importance of actively seeking love in our relationships. Just as the bride earnestly searches for her beloved, we are encouraged to pursue love with intention and dedication, reflecting the pursuit of a deeper relationship with God. 2. The Value of Persistence The bride's determination is evident as she continues her search in Song of Solomon 3:2, "I will arise now and go about the city, through its streets and squares. I will seek the one I love." Her persistence teaches us that true love requires effort and perseverance. In our spiritual journey, persistence in seeking God and His wisdom is key to deepening our faith and understanding. 3. Community Support in Love In Song of Solomon 3:3, the watchmen found the bride as she searched, "The watchmen found me as they made their rounds in the city." This highlights the importance of community in our lives. Just as the watchmen assist the bride, our community can support and guide us in our pursuit of love and spiritual growth. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers can strengthen our faith and provide encouragement. 4. The Joy of Finding Love The bride's joy is palpable in Song of Solomon 3:4, "I had just passed them when I found the one I love. I held him and would not let him go." This verse captures the elation of finding true love. In our spiritual walk, finding and holding onto God's love brings unparalleled joy and fulfillment, reminding us of the ultimate joy found in a relationship with Christ. 5. The Importance of Commitment The bride's determination to hold onto her beloved reflects the importance of commitment in relationships. In Song of Solomon 3:4, she declares, "I held him and would not let him go." This commitment mirrors our need to remain steadfast in our faith, holding onto God's promises and His unwavering love for us. 6. The Beauty of Rest In Song of Solomon 3:5, the bride urges, "Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right." This teaches us the beauty of patience and rest in love. Just as love should not be rushed, our spiritual growth requires patience and trust in God's perfect timing. Resting in His plan allows us to experience His peace and guidance. 7. The Majesty of a Wedding Procession The imagery of the wedding procession in Song of Solomon 3:6-7, "Who is this coming up from the wilderness like a column of smoke... Look, it is Solomon's carriage," symbolizes the majesty and sanctity of marriage. This reflects the sacred covenant between Christ and the Church, reminding us of the honor and reverence we should hold for our relationships and commitments. 8. The Protection of Love In Song of Solomon 3:8, the description of the guards with swords, "All of them are skilled with the sword, experienced in warfare," emphasizes the protective nature of love. Just as the guards protect the procession, God's love shields us from harm. We are called to protect and nurture our relationships, ensuring they are grounded in love and faith. 9. The Splendor of a Royal Wedding The grandeur of Solomon's wedding in Song of Solomon 3:9-10, "King Solomon made for himself the carriage... its interior lovingly inlaid," illustrates the splendor of a royal wedding. This grandeur reflects the beauty and glory of our relationship with God, as we are invited to partake in the divine union with Christ, our eternal King. 10. The Celebration of Love Finally, Song of Solomon 3:11 invites us to celebrate love, "Come out, O daughters of Zion, and look at King Solomon wearing the crown." This celebration of love encourages us to rejoice in the love we share with others and with God. Our faith journey is a celebration of the love and grace bestowed upon us through Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, the ultimate source of our salvation. Topics 1. The Bride's Nighttime Search (Song of Solomon 3:1-3) The bride describes her longing and search for her beloved during the night. This passage reflects the deep yearning and desire for communion with the beloved, symbolizing the soul's search for Christ. The Hebrew word "בַּקֵּשׁ" (baqash) is used for "sought," indicating an earnest and diligent search. 2. The Bride Finds Her Beloved (Song of Solomon 3:4) Upon finding her beloved, the bride holds him and brings him to her mother's house. This symbolizes the joy and fulfillment found in Christ when He is sought with a sincere heart. The Hebrew root "אָחַז" (achaz) for "held" conveys a firm and secure grasp, emphasizing the importance of holding onto Christ once found. 3. The Charge to the Daughters of Jerusalem (Song of Solomon 3:5) The bride adjures the daughters of Jerusalem not to awaken love until it desires. This reflects the importance of allowing love to develop naturally and in God's timing. The Hebrew word "עוֹר" (ur) for "awaken" suggests stirring or arousing, emphasizing patience in matters of love. 4. Solomon's Wedding Procession (Song of Solomon 3:6-11) The passage describes the grandeur of Solomon's wedding procession, highlighting the splendor and majesty associated with the king. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the marriage between Christ and His Church. The Hebrew word "מִטָּה" (mittah) for "litter" or "carriage" signifies a place of rest and honor, symbolizing the Church's place with Christ. Each of these topics reflects the themes of love, longing, and fulfillment found in a relationship with Christ, as well as the anticipation of the ultimate union between Christ and His Church. Themes 1. Longing and Seeking The chapter opens with the bride expressing her deep longing and search for her beloved. This theme highlights the earnest desire and pursuit of love. The Hebrew root for "seek" (בקש, baqash) emphasizes an active and diligent search. ^"On my bed at night I sought the one I love; I sought him, but did not find him."^ (Song of Solomon 3:1) 2. The Joy of Finding After a period of searching, the bride finds her beloved, illustrating the joy and fulfillment that comes with the discovery of true love. This reflects the biblical principle of seeking and finding, as seen in other scriptures. ^"I found the one I love. I held him and would not let him go..."^ (Song of Solomon 3:4) 3. Commitment and Security The bride's determination to hold onto her beloved once she finds him underscores themes of commitment and security in love. This reflects the covenantal nature of biblical love and marriage. ^"...until I had brought him to my mother’s house, to the chamber of her who conceived me."^ (Song of Solomon 3:4) 4. Public Celebration of Love The chapter describes a royal procession, possibly a wedding, celebrating love in a public and communal setting. This theme highlights the importance of community recognition and support of marital love. ^"Look, it is Solomon’s carriage, escorted by sixty warriors from the valiant of Israel."^ (Song of Solomon 3:7) 5. Royal Imagery and Splendor The imagery of Solomon's carriage and the detailed description of its grandeur reflect themes of majesty and splendor, symbolizing the beauty and honor of love. The Hebrew word for "carriage" (אפריון, appiryon) suggests a royal or luxurious conveyance. ^"King Solomon has made his carriage out of the timber of Lebanon."^ (Song of Solomon 3:9) 6. Protection and Strength The presence of warriors around Solomon's carriage symbolizes protection and strength, themes that are often associated with divine protection in the biblical narrative. ^"All are skilled with the sword, experienced in warfare. Each has his sword at his side, prepared for the terror of the night."^ (Song of Solomon 3:8) Prayer Points Pray for a deeper longing and desire to seek Christ in every aspect of life. Ask for guidance and support from spiritual leaders and community in your faith journey. Thank God for the joy and fulfillment found in His presence. Pray for strength and commitment in your relationships, both earthly and spiritual. Celebrate and give thanks for spiritual growth and milestones in your walk with Christ. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Song of Solomon 3:1–3, how can we reconcile the apparent dream-like search for the beloved with a literal historical setting? 2. Why does the text (Song of Solomon 3:6–7) describe Solomon’s procession with such grandeur, given the lack of archaeological evidence for this specific event? 3. Could the depiction of sixty warriors guarding Solomon’s carriage (Song of Solomon 3:7–8) be an exaggeration, and if so, does it conflict with the notion of biblical inerrancy? 4. How do we reconcile the romantic imagery of Song of Solomon 3 with the more sober views on marriage and lust in other biblical texts (e.g., Matthew 5:28)? 5. If the author truly was King Solomon, why is there no explicit historical record or external verification of these events beyond the text (Song of Solomon 3)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the Shulammite woman's intense search for her beloved in her dream reflect the depth of her love? 2. What does the adjuration to the daughters of Jerusalem in verse 5 suggest about the timing of love? 3. How do you interpret the symbolic significance of Solomon's procession coming out from the wilderness? 4. How can the Shulammite woman's commitment to her love be seen as a metaphor for our spiritual search for God? 5. In what ways does the description of Solomon's royal procession reflect the significance and joy of marital union? 6. How can you apply the lessons learned from the Shulammite woman's patience in love to your own relationships? 7. What does the crown given by Solomon's mother represent, and how does it signify family's role in a marriage? 8. How do the yearning and searching portrayed in this chapter relate to the human experience of longing and fulfillment? 9. What does the reference to the "wilderness" in the context of Solomon's procession imply about the journey of love and marriage? 10. How does the concept of not awakening love before its time apply to your personal life, and what lessons can you draw from it? 11. How can you relate the symbolic journey depicted in this chapter to your own spiritual journey? 12. How does the Shulammite woman's search for her beloved inspire you to seek and cherish love in your life? 13. In modern relationships, how can we embody the depth of love and commitment expressed by the Shulammite woman? 14. How does the image of the procession serve as a metaphor for the journey from engagement to marriage? 15. How does the Shulammite woman's determination in her search reflect on the importance of perseverance in life's pursuits? 16. What does Solomon's palanquin made of the wood of Lebanon symbolize about the stability and strength of a marriage? 17. In what ways can you relate the Shulammite woman's dream to your own dreams and desires? 18. How does the depiction of the Shulammite woman's relentless search for her beloved inspire us to persist in our personal and spiritual endeavors? 19. How can the journey of love portrayed in Song of Solomon 3 inform our understanding and approach to modern-day relationships? 20. How can we apply the lessons of patience, timing, and celebration from Song of Solomon 3 to other aspects of our life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions