◄ Song of Solomon 7 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Admiration by the Bridegroom 1How beautiful are your sandaled feet, O daughter of the prince! The curves of your thighs are like jewels, the handiwork of a master. 2Your navel is a rounded goblet; it never lacks blended wine. Your waist is a mound of wheat encircled by the lilies. 3Your breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle. 4Your neck is like a tower made of ivory; your eyes are like the pools of Heshbon by the gate of Bath-rabbim; your nose is like the tower of Lebanon, facing toward Damascus. 5Your head crowns you like Mount Carmel, the hair of your head like purple threads; the king is captured in your tresses. 6How fair and pleasant you are, O love, with your delights! 7Your stature is like a palm tree; your breasts are clusters of fruit. 8I said, “I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit.” May your breasts be like clusters of the vine, the fragrance of your breath like apples, 9and your moutha like the finest wine. The Bride May it flow smoothly to my beloved, gliding gently over lips and teeth.b 10I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me. 11Come, my beloved, let us go to the countryside; let us spend the night among the wildflowers.c 12Let us go early to the vineyards to see if the vine has budded, if the blossom has opened, if the pomegranates are in bloom— there I will give you my love. 13The mandrakes send forth a fragrance, and at our door is every delicacy, new as well as old, that I have treasured up for you, my beloved. Footnotes: 9 a Hebrew palate 9 b LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate; Hebrew gliding gently over lips as we sleep 11 c Or among the henna blossoms or in the villages 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 7 Summary Admiration by the Bridegroom Verses 1–5 – The Bride’s Radiant Form The groom praises his bride from the ground up. Her sandaled feet, shapely thighs, and rounded midsection are compared to jewelry and a goblet, hinting at skillful craftsmanship and abundance. Her breasts are likened to “two fawns,” her neck to an ivory tower, her eyes to calm pools, her nose to a proud lookout, and her hair to royal fabric that captivates a king. Every line underscores dignity, fertility, and regal beauty. Verses 6–9 – Desire in Full Bloom He marvels at her overall loveliness: “How fair and pleasant you are!” Her stature resembles a palm tree laden with fruit; he longs to “climb the palm” and taste its clusters. Her breath and palate are pictured as the finest wine, gliding “straight to my beloved.” Mutual delight reaches a joyful crescendo. Verses 10–13 – Mutual Belonging and Invitation She responds, “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me.” Confidence replaces earlier insecurity. She invites him to the countryside, to vineyards bursting with blossoms, promising new and stored-up delights. Even the mandrakes add fragrance, marking a time of fruitful union. The seventh chapter of the Song of Solomon, often termed as the 'Song of Songs,' continues the enchanting narrative of a profound love between a man and a woman. This chapter captures a series of intimate exchanges, filled with vivid imagery and deeply poetic language. The chapter emphasizes the beauty and sanctity of love within marriage, showcasing the mutual admiration and attraction that exists between the lovers. Historical and Cultural Background • Attributed to Solomon (10th century BC), the song reflects royal wealth (towers, tapestries) and rustic scenes (vineyards, mandrakes). • Ancient Near Eastern love poetry often moves head-to-toe (or, here, foot-to-head), known as a wasf. • Sandals, ivory towers, and Lebanon’s lookouts matched real items from the era. Excavations at Hazor and Megiddo show ivory inlay work that mirrors the “ivory tower” motif. Literary Flow 1. Description (vv. 1–5) 2. Heightened desire (vv. 6–9) 3. Response and invitation (vv. 10–13) The movement mirrors courtship, culmination, and continued companionship. Imagery Explained • “Feet in sandals” – dignity; only nobles wore ornate footwear. • “Rounded goblet” – fullness, life, and possibly pregnancy hope. • “Wheat encircled by lilies” – harvest abundance plus delicate beauty. • “Palm tree & clusters” – tall grace and sweet fruit; the palm was a Middle-East symbol of victory and fertility (cf. Judges 4:5). • “Mandrakes” – believed to boost conception (Genesis 30:14-16). Archaeological Insights • Pools of Heshbon: Two large reservoirs from Herodian times still remain, matching the calm, reflective waters of v. 4. • Tower of Lebanon: Defensive outposts overlooking Damascus are documented in Assyrian reliefs. • Sandal fragments made of leather and palm fiber found at En-Gedi illustrate the craft lauded in v. 1. Connections to Other Scriptures • Genesis 2:23-24 – ecstatic recognition of one’s counterpart. • Proverbs 5:18-19 – spouses urged to delight in each other’s form. • Psalm 45:10-15 – royal bride imagery parallels the Song’s grandeur. • Isaiah 62:5 – “as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride.” • Ephesians 5:25-32 – self-giving love within marriage echoes the mutual belonging of v. 10. • Revelation 19:7 – bridal joy ultimately points to the great marriage feast. Marriage and Intimacy Applications • Words matter: the groom’s detailed praise models speaking life and honor into a marriage. • God-given beauty: physical appreciation is celebrated, not shunned. • Mutual ownership: “I am my beloved’s” highlights exclusivity and security. • Shared adventures: moving “to the fields” shows love thrives outside routine. Foreshadowing of Greater Union Israel’s covenant with the LORD is often pictured as marriage (Hosea 2:19); the bride’s confidence anticipates the Church’s assurance that Christ delights in her (John 17:24). Practical Takeaways 1. Celebrate your spouse’s unique qualities without comparison. 2. Pursue shared experiences that refresh love, just as the couple heads to the vineyards. 3. Let your speech be “the best wine,” uplifting and seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6). Key Echoes • v1 “How beautiful are your feet in sandals, O daughter of a prince!” • v3 “Your two breasts are like two fawns.” • v6 “How fair and pleasant you are, O love, with all your delights!” • v8 “I will climb the palm tree, I will take hold of its fruit.” • v10 “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me.” • v13 “The mandrakes emit their fragrance.” In Songs 7, marriage shines as a garden of spoken honor, eager pursuit, and shared joy—earthly love that hints at an even greater, everlasting embrace. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 2:24 This verse speaks to the union of husband and wife, emphasizing the oneness that is celebrated in Song of Solomon 7. Ephesians 5:25-33 These verses provide a New Testament perspective on marital love, encouraging husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church. Proverbs 5:18-19 These verses celebrate the joy and satisfaction found in a loving marital relationship, echoing the themes of Song of Solomon. Teaching Points Celebration of Beauty and Love Song of Solomon 7:1-9 describes the physical beauty of the beloved in exquisite detail, highlighting the importance of appreciating and celebrating the beauty in our spouses. Intimacy in Marriage The chapter emphasizes the deep intimacy and connection that should exist within marriage, reflecting God's design for a loving and committed relationship. Mutual Admiration The mutual admiration between the lovers in this chapter underscores the importance of respect and appreciation in a healthy relationship. Symbolism and Imagery The use of rich imagery and symbolism in this chapter invites readers to see beyond the literal and appreciate the deeper emotional and spiritual connections in love. Practical Applications Express Appreciation Take time to express admiration and appreciation for your spouse's qualities, both physical and non-physical. Cultivate Intimacy Invest in building a deeper emotional and spiritual connection with your spouse, recognizing it as a reflection of God's love. Embrace Beauty Recognize and celebrate the beauty in your spouse and in your relationship, understanding it as a gift from God. Communicate Openly Foster open and honest communication in your marriage, allowing for a deeper understanding and connection. People 1. The Shulammite Woman She is the central female figure in the Song of Solomon, often seen as a representation of beauty and love. In this chapter, her physical attributes are described in detail, highlighting her grace and allure. The Hebrew root for "Shulammite" (שׁוּלַמִּית) suggests a connection to peace or completeness, akin to the name Solomon (שְׁלֹמֹה). 2. The Beloved (Solomon) He is the male figure who expresses admiration and love for the Shulammite woman. His descriptions of her are poetic and filled with adoration. Solomon, traditionally considered the author of the Song, is often seen as a symbol of wisdom and royal splendor. Places 1. Jerusalem While not explicitly mentioned in Song of Solomon 7, Jerusalem is often considered the backdrop for the events in the Song of Solomon. It is the central city of Israel and holds significant cultural and religious importance. The imagery and language throughout the Song often reflect the beauty and grandeur associated with Jerusalem. 2. Carmel In Song of Solomon 7:5, the hair of the beloved is compared to "purple; a king is held captive in its tresses." The reference to Carmel, a mountain range in Israel known for its lush vegetation and beauty, symbolizes the majesty and allure of the beloved's appearance. The Hebrew root for Carmel (כַּרְמֶל) suggests a fruitful or fertile place, enhancing the imagery of abundance and beauty. 3. Lebanon Although not directly mentioned in chapter 7, Lebanon is frequently referenced throughout the Song of Solomon as a place of beauty and fragrance. The cedars of Lebanon are renowned for their strength and aroma, often symbolizing the strength and allure of the beloved. Events 1. Admiration of the Beloved's Beauty The chapter begins with the lover admiring the physical beauty of the beloved. He describes her feet, thighs, navel, waist, and breasts, using rich and poetic imagery. This admiration highlights the deep affection and attraction between the lovers. The Hebrew roots emphasize the physical and sensual aspects of love, which are celebrated within the context of marriage. 2. Description of the Beloved's Stature and Grace The lover continues to praise the beloved's stature, comparing her to a palm tree and her breasts to clusters of fruit. This metaphorical language underscores the beloved's elegance and the lover's desire. The Hebrew word for "palm tree" (תָּמָר, tamar) symbolizes uprightness and beauty. 3. Expression of Desire The lover expresses his desire to "climb the palm tree" and "take hold of its fruit." This is a metaphor for his longing to be intimate with the beloved. The language used here is both passionate and respectful, reflecting the sanctity of marital love. 4. The Beloved's Response The beloved responds to the lover's admiration and desire, inviting him to enjoy the pleasures of love. She speaks of the fragrance of her breath and the sweetness of her mouth, indicating mutual affection and willingness. 5. Invitation to the Countryside The beloved invites the lover to go to the countryside, to spend time together in the vineyards. This setting symbolizes a place of intimacy and privacy, away from the distractions of the city. The Hebrew word for "vineyards" (כֶּרֶם, kerem) often represents fertility and abundance. 6. Anticipation of Love's Fulfillment The beloved expresses anticipation for the fulfillment of their love, mentioning the blossoming vines and the fragrance of mandrakes. These images evoke a sense of renewal and the joy of love in its fullness. 7. Commitment and Devotion The chapter concludes with a reaffirmation of commitment and devotion between the lovers. The beloved declares that she has stored up treasures for her lover, symbolizing the depth and richness of their relationship. Lessons from Song of Solomon 7 1. Celebrate the Beauty of Love Song of Solomon 7 is a vivid celebration of love and beauty, reminding us that love is a gift from God. The poetic imagery used to describe the beloved's physical attributes highlights the importance of appreciating and cherishing the beauty in our relationships. As it is written, "How beautiful are your feet in sandals, O daughter of the prince!" (Song of Solomon 7:1). This teaches us to express gratitude and admiration for our loved ones, recognizing them as precious gifts from the Creator. 2. Embrace the Joy of Intimacy The chapter emphasizes the joy and fulfillment found in marital intimacy. The mutual admiration and desire between the lovers serve as a reminder that intimacy is a divine blessing. "Your stature is like a palm tree; your breasts are clusters of fruit" (Song of Solomon 7:7). This imagery encourages us to nurture and protect the sacred bond of marriage, understanding that it is a reflection of God's love for us. 3. The Power of Words in Relationships Words have the power to build up or tear down, and Song of Solomon 7 illustrates the importance of using words to uplift and affirm our partners. The lover's praises are heartfelt and sincere, demonstrating how positive words can strengthen a relationship. "How fair and how pleasant you are, O love, with your delights!" (Song of Solomon 7:6). Let us be mindful of our speech, using it to encourage and edify those we love. 4. The Beauty of Mutual Desire The mutual desire expressed in this chapter highlights the importance of reciprocity in relationships. Both partners express longing and admiration, showing that love is a two-way street. "I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me" (Song of Solomon 7:10). This mutual desire fosters a deep connection and understanding, reminding us to be attentive to the needs and desires of our loved ones. 5. The Importance of Pursuit Song of Solomon 7 teaches us about the importance of pursuit in love. The lover's eagerness to be with the beloved demonstrates that love requires effort and intentionality. "Come, my beloved, let us go to the countryside" (Song of Solomon 7:11). This pursuit keeps the relationship vibrant and alive, encouraging us to continually seek ways to grow closer to our partners. 6. The Role of Nature in Romance The chapter beautifully intertwines nature with romance, using imagery of vineyards, palm trees, and fields to describe love. This connection to nature reminds us of the Creator's handiwork and the natural beauty that surrounds us. "Let us go early to the vineyards to see if the vines have budded" (Song of Solomon 7:12). Embrace the outdoors as a setting for romance, allowing God's creation to inspire and enrich your relationships. 7. The Significance of Commitment Commitment is a central theme in Song of Solomon 7, as the lovers express their unwavering devotion to one another. This commitment mirrors the steadfast love God has for us. "I am my beloved's, and his desire is for me" (Song of Solomon 7:10). Let this be a reminder to remain faithful and dedicated in our relationships, reflecting the covenantal love that God demonstrates. 8. The Joy of Anticipation Anticipation is a delightful aspect of love, as seen in the eager planning and longing expressed by the lovers. This anticipation adds excitement and depth to the relationship. "There I will give you my love" (Song of Solomon 7:12). Embrace the joy of looking forward to shared experiences, understanding that anticipation can strengthen the bond between partners. 9. The Art of Expressing Love Song of Solomon 7 is a masterclass in expressing love through words and actions. The detailed and poetic descriptions serve as a guide for how we can communicate our affection. "Your head crowns you like Mount Carmel" (Song of Solomon 7:5). Take inspiration from this artful expression, finding creative and meaningful ways to show love to those around you. 10. Love as a Reflection of Divine Love Ultimately, the love depicted in Song of Solomon 7 is a reflection of the divine love that God has for us. The passion, commitment, and joy found in human relationships are but a shadow of the perfect love we receive from our Creator. "I am my beloved's, and his desire is for me" (Song of Solomon 7:10). Let this chapter inspire you to seek a deeper understanding of God's love, allowing it to transform your relationships and your life. Topics 1. Admiration of Physical Beauty The chapter opens with a detailed and poetic admiration of the beloved's physical beauty. The lover describes various parts of the beloved's body, using rich and vivid imagery. This reflects the Hebrew tradition of celebrating marital love and beauty within the context of a committed relationship. The language used is both intimate and respectful, highlighting the sanctity of marital affection. 2. Celebration of Marital Love The passage continues to celebrate the joy and fulfillment found in marital love. The lover's words express deep affection and desire, emphasizing the mutual delight and satisfaction that comes from a God-ordained union. This aligns with the conservative Christian view that marriage is a sacred covenant designed by God for companionship and procreation. 3. Invitation to Intimacy The beloved invites the lover to come away with her, symbolizing a mutual desire for closeness and intimacy. This invitation underscores the importance of mutual consent and shared desire in a healthy marital relationship. The Hebrew root words convey a sense of longing and eagerness, reflecting the deep emotional and spiritual connection between the couple. 4. Symbolism of Nature and Fertility The imagery of nature, such as vineyards and pomegranates, is used to symbolize fertility and abundance. This reflects the biblical theme of fruitfulness and the blessings of God upon a marriage. The natural world serves as a metaphor for the flourishing and life-giving aspects of a loving relationship. 5. Expression of Desire and Commitment The chapter concludes with expressions of desire and commitment, reinforcing the idea that love is both passionate and enduring. The lover's words convey a sense of devotion and exclusivity, which is central to the Christian understanding of marriage as a lifelong commitment. The Hebrew language used here emphasizes the depth and intensity of the couple's bond. Themes 1. Beauty and Admiration Song of Solomon 7 begins with a detailed description of the beloved's physical beauty, highlighting the admiration and appreciation of her form. This theme underscores the celebration of physical beauty within the context of marital love. The Hebrew word "yapheh" (יָפֶה), meaning "beautiful," is often used to convey this admiration. 2. Intimacy and Desire The chapter expresses deep longing and desire between the lovers, emphasizing the importance of intimacy in a marital relationship. The Hebrew root "dod" (דּוֹד), meaning "beloved" or "lover," reflects the passionate and affectionate bond shared by the couple. 3. Joy and Delight in Love The expressions of joy and delight in each other's presence are evident throughout the chapter. This theme highlights the joy that comes from a loving and committed relationship. The Hebrew word "simchah" (שִׂמְחָה), meaning "joy" or "gladness," captures this sentiment. 4. Unity and Oneness The imagery used in the chapter often symbolizes the unity and oneness of the couple, reflecting the biblical ideal of two becoming one flesh in marriage. The Hebrew concept of "echad" (אֶחָד), meaning "one," is foundational to understanding this theme of unity. 5. Fruitfulness and Abundance The references to vineyards and fruits symbolize fruitfulness and abundance in the relationship. This theme can be seen as a metaphor for the blessings and prosperity that come from a godly marriage. The Hebrew word "peri" (פְּרִי), meaning "fruit," is indicative of this abundance. 6. Commitment and Devotion The chapter conveys a strong sense of commitment and devotion between the lovers, emphasizing the enduring nature of their relationship. The Hebrew word "ahavah" (אַהֲבָה), meaning "love," often denotes a deep, covenantal love that is steadfast and faithful. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Love Thank God for the gift of love and the beauty of marital relationships. Strengthening Marriages Pray for strength and unity in marriages, asking God to deepen the love and commitment between spouses. Wisdom in Relationships Ask for wisdom to navigate the complexities of relationships, seeking to honor God in all interactions. Healing and Restoration Pray for healing and restoration in marriages that are struggling, asking God to renew love and commitment. Answering Tough Questions 1. Song of Solomon 7:2 – Does describing a navel as a “rounded bowl” for wine suggest literal impossibility or exaggeration that conflicts with scientific reality? 2. Song of Solomon 7:3 – How does comparing breasts to young deer align with or contradict other biblical teachings on modesty and propriety? 3. Song of Solomon 7:5 – Is likening hair to royal purple historically or archaeologically supported in ancient Israel, and does it conflict with other scriptural cultural references? 4. Song of Solomon 7:7–8 – Does the imagery of a palm tree and clustered fruit borrow from neighboring fertility cults, raising concerns about syncretism or idolatry? 5. Song of Solomon 7 (entire) – Why is a passionate love poem with no explicit reference to God included in scripture, and does it clash with broader biblical themes of divine focus? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the detailed descriptions of physical beauty contribute to the overall understanding of love in this chapter? 2. What aspects of the relationship between the man and woman in this chapter could be applied to contemporary relationships? 3. How does the imagery used in this chapter contribute to the themes of love and desire? 4. How do the lover's praises reflect his view of his beloved? 5. How does the woman's invitation to her lover exemplify mutual respect and desire in their relationship? 6. How does the mutual expression of affection and desire reflect the sanctity of love within marriage? 7. How might the expressions of love and passion in this chapter challenge or affirm your personal views on love and relationships? 8. How can the lovers' expressions of desire and admiration inspire a deeper understanding of love in modern relationships? 9. How can the depth of love expressed in this chapter inform the way we handle conflicts in relationships today? 10. What lessons can be drawn from this chapter about the importance of expressing admiration and praise in relationships? 11. How can the mutual respect and admiration between the lovers inform modern-day discussions on gender roles in relationships? 12. How can you apply the idea of celebrating your partner's beauty, as seen in the chapter, in your own relationship? 13. In what ways can the sense of longing and desire expressed in this chapter influence our understanding of commitment in relationships? 14. How does this chapter challenge the societal norms of love and attraction? 15. How do the dynamics of the relationship between the lovers compare to societal expectations of relationships today? 16. How can the mutual expression of affection in this chapter guide us in developing deeper emotional connections in our relationships? 17. How might the expressions of love and passion in this chapter be received in contemporary society, and what does that suggest about societal perceptions of love? 18. How does the celebration of physical and emotional aspects of love in this chapter speak to the importance of balance in relationships? 19. How can this chapter's exploration of sensual love within the sanctity of marriage shape our understanding of intimacy in relationships? 20. What insights can we draw from the lovers' mutual respect and desire, and how can these insights be applied in nurturing modern-day relationships? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions