◄ Song of Solomon 1 ►
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The Bride Confesses Her Love (Ephesians 5:22–33; 1 Peter 3:1–7) 1This is Solomon’s Song of Songs.a The Bride 2Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine. 3The fragrance of your perfume is pleasing; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the maidens adore you. 4Take me away with you—let us hurry! May the king bring me to his chambers. The Friends We will rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine. The Bride It is only right that they adore you. 5I am dark, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon. 6Do not stare because I am dark, for the sun has gazed upon me. My mother’s sons were angry with me; they made me a keeper of the vineyards, but my own vineyard I have neglected. 7Tell me, O one I love, where do you pasture your sheep? Where do you rest them at midday? Why should I be like a veiled woman beside the flocks of your companions? The Friends 8If you do not know, O fairest of women, follow the tracks of the flock, and graze your young goats near the tents of the shepherds. The Bridegroom 9I compare you, my darling, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariots. 10Your cheeks are beautiful with ornaments, your neck with strings of jewels. The Friends 11We will make you ornaments of gold, studded with beads of silver. The Bride 12While the king was at his table, my perfume spread its fragrance. 13My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh resting between my breasts. 14My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En-gedi. The Bridegroom 15How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves. The Bride 16How handsome you are, my beloved! Oh, how delightful! The soft grass is our bed. The Bridegroom 17The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are fragrant firs. Footnotes: 1 a Most translators add subheadings for speaker identifications such as The Bride, The Groom, and The Friends based on the gender and number of the Hebrew words. 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 1 Summary The Bride Confesses Her Love Verse 1 – The Supreme Song Solomon’s name and status frame this collection as the finest of all songs. Verses 2–4 – Longing for the King’s Kiss The bride yearns aloud: “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is more delightful than wine” (BSB – . She relishes his fragrant oils, desires to be drawn after him, and rejoices with the “daughters of Jerusalem.” Verses 5–6 – Dark Yet Lovely She defends her sun-darkened skin: “Do not stare because I am dark… My mother’s sons were angry with me; they made me keeper of the vineyards, but my own vineyard I have not kept.” Despite humble labor and weathered beauty, she knows she is cherished. Verse 7 – Seeking the Shepherd-King She asks where he pastures his flock at noon, disliking the thought of wandering “beside the flocks of your companions.” Verses 8–11 – Royal Assurance The king answers tenderly, likening her to “a mare among Pharaoh’s chariots.” He promises golden ornaments studded with silver—tokens of honor. Verses 12–14 – Perfumed Fellowship While the king reclines, her spikenard diffuses aroma. He is “a bundle of myrrh resting between my breasts… a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En-gedi.” Verses 15–17 – Mutual Delight and Rest He calls her “beautiful, my darling,” with “dove-like” eyes. She replies, “How handsome you are, my beloved.” Their “house” is verdant, with cedar beams and fir rafters—secure, fresh, and enduring. Song of Solomon Chapter 1 presents a deeply intimate exchange of affection and longing between two lovers. It illustrates the beauty of love, the pining of two souls for one another, and the passionate desire that binds them together. The words are poetic and metaphorical, interweaving imagery of nature and opulence, embodying the grandeur and profundity of their love. Authorship and Setting • Attributed to Solomon (1 Kings 4:32), this song reflects the splendor of his united monarchy (10th century BC). • The frequent first-person speech shifts between the bride, Solomon, and a chorus, mirroring ancient Near Eastern wedding lyrics. Historical Backdrop of Solomon’s Court Solomon’s wealth enabled exotic fragrances (1 Kings 10:10) and imported cedar (1 Kings 5:6-10). The opulent imagery in chapter 1 fits that milieu, yet the focus remains on exclusive love, not political marriage alliances. Poetic Imagery and Love Language • Wine, oil, myrrh, henna, and nard were prized luxuries; each evokes delight and intimacy. • Animal and pastoral metaphors (flocks, mare, shepherd) were common in Egyptian and Canaanite love poetry, yet Scripture anchors them in covenant fidelity. Geography in the Text • En-gedi, a freshwater oasis halfway down the Dead Sea’s western shore, was famed for date palms, vineyards, and balsam. Archaeological digs unearthed 3rd–1st-century BC perfume workshops there, validating the scene. • Cedars and firs reference Lebanon’s forests—symbols of longevity and royal construction. Perfumes and Cosmetics of the Ancient Near East • Spikenard (nard) came from the Himalayan plant Nardostachys jatamansi, imported through trade routes—costly, strong, earthy. • Myrrh, harvested from Commiphora trees in Arabia and East Africa, was used for anointing (Exodus 30:23) and burial (John 19:39). • Henna (Hebrew kopher) produced orange-red dye and fragrant blossoms, still cultivated at En-gedi’s oasis. Beauty and Self-Image • “Dark, yet lovely” counters cultural bias that prized lighter skin among the urban elite. Her toil-darkened complexion becomes a badge of honor, echoing 1 Samuel 16:7: “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” • The mention of brothers forcing her to work shows familial tensions familiar in Proverbs 31:27-29. The Shepherd-King Motif • David was both shepherd and king (2 Samuel 7:8). Solomon inherits that image, prefiguring Jesus—the greater Shepherd-King (John 10:11; Revelation 7:17). • The bride’s plea to know his resting place parallels believers seeking Christ’s presence (Matthew 11:28). Connections to Other Scriptures • Psalm 45: Similar royal wedding language and fragrance imagery. • Isaiah 61:10 & Revelation 19:7-9: Bridal joy as a picture of God’s salvation. • Ephesians 5:25-33: Human marriage mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ for the church. Archaeological Finds Supporting the Text • Phoenician cedar beams discovered in Israelite palaces match the “beams of cedar.” • Alabaster perfume flasks from the 10th-century BC at Tel Megiddo reveal the elite’s use of exotic oils. • Wall paintings from Middle-Kingdom Egypt show dark-skinned field workers alongside fair-skinned nobility, matching the bride’s social tension. Literary Devices • Parallelism: “Your love is more delightful than wine… your name is perfume poured out.” • Inclusio: Chapter opens and closes with celebratory fragrance and secure dwelling, bracketing the theme of intimate delight. Themes of Covenant Love 1. Exclusivity: “No wonder the maidens adore you” shows admiration from others yet singular focus on one bride. 2. Public Praise, Private Intimacy: Love is affirmed among community but consummated in privacy, aligning with Genesis 2:24. 3. Mutuality: Both voices praise each other—echoing equality in marital affection (1 Corinthians 7:3-4). Practical Reflections for Marriage • Cultivate verbal affirmation; Solomon models lavish, sincere praise. • Protect private time (“draw me after you”) despite public responsibilities. • Accept natural appearance; genuine love values character over cosmetic perfection. Foreshadowing of Redemption Just as the bride rejoices in fragrant oils, believers rejoice in the “fragrance of the knowledge of Him” (2 Corinthians 2:14). The cedar-framed resting place anticipates the eternal dwelling Jesus prepares (John 14:2). Summary Takeaway Song of Solomon 1 celebrates exclusive, joyful, and fragrant love. Rooted in real history, it invites readers to cherish marital affection while glimpsing the greater Shepherd-King whose love surpasses wine and whose name is ointment poured out. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 This passage on love complements the themes of love and character in Song of Solomon 1. Proverbs 31:10-31 Highlights the value of character and integrity, especially in the context of a virtuous woman. Ephesians 5:25-33 Discusses the love and respect between husbands and wives, mirroring the mutual affection seen in Song of Solomon. Teaching Points The Beauty of Love Song of Solomon 1:2-4 highlights the bride's longing for her beloved, emphasizing the sweetness and desirability of love. Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine. The Value of Character In verse 3, the bride praises the character of her beloved, Your name is oil poured out; therefore the maidens love you. This underscores the importance of integrity and reputation in relationships. The Pursuit of Intimacy The bride expresses a desire to be drawn closer to her beloved, Draw me after you; let us run. (v. 4). This reflects the mutual pursuit and deepening of intimacy in a healthy relationship. Self-Perception and Beauty The bride acknowledges her own appearance, I am dark, yet lovely (v. 5), teaching us about self-acceptance and the recognition of inherent beauty. The Role of Community The daughters of Jerusalem play a role in the narrative, representing the community's perspective and involvement in the relationship (v. 4). Practical Applications Cultivate Deep Love Strive to develop a love that is more delightful than wine, focusing on emotional and spiritual connection in your relationships. Prioritize Character Recognize the importance of character and integrity in yourself and others, understanding that true beauty is found in one's reputation and actions. Pursue Intimacy Actively seek to deepen your relationship with your spouse or loved ones, fostering closeness and understanding. Embrace Your Beauty Accept and celebrate your unique beauty, recognizing that you are wonderfully made by God. Engage with Community Involve trusted friends and family in your relationship journey, valuing their support and wisdom. People 1. The Beloved (Shulammite Woman) The primary female character in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as a representation of the bride or the church. She expresses her deep love and desire for her beloved. The Hebrew term "Shulammite" (שׁוּלַמִּית) is often associated with peace or completeness, possibly linking her to Solomon (שְׁלֹמֹה), whose name also derives from the root for peace. 2. The Lover (Solomon) The male counterpart in the dialogue, traditionally identified as King Solomon. He is the beloved of the Shulammite woman and represents the bridegroom or Christ in allegorical interpretations. His presence is inferred through the woman's expressions of love and admiration. 3. The Daughters of Jerusalem These are the chorus-like figures who appear throughout the Song, often seen as companions or onlookers. They interact with the Shulammite woman, providing a communal voice that reflects societal norms and expectations. Places 1. Kedar Reference: Song of Solomon 1:5 Description: "Dark am I, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon." The tents of Kedar refer to the nomadic tribes descended from Ishmael, known for their black, goat-hair tents. The mention of Kedar highlights the bride's complexion and her humble origins, contrasting with her inner beauty and worth. 2. Jerusalem Reference: Song of Solomon 1:5 Description: "Dark am I, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon." Jerusalem is the central city of Israel, often symbolizing the spiritual and political heart of the nation. The daughters of Jerusalem represent the women of the city, serving as a chorus or audience within the poem. 3. Vineyards Reference: Song of Solomon 1:6 Description: "Do not stare because I am dark, for the sun has gazed upon me. My mother’s sons were angry with me; they made me a keeper of the vineyards, but my own vineyard I have neglected." Vineyards are a recurring motif in the Song of Solomon, symbolizing both literal and metaphorical aspects of love and labor. The speaker's work in the vineyards has affected her appearance, yet it also speaks to her diligence and familial obligations. 4. En-Gedi Reference: Song of Solomon 1:14 Description: "My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En-Gedi." En-Gedi is an oasis located near the Dead Sea, known for its lush vegetation and beauty. It serves as a metaphor for the beloved's refreshing and life-giving presence, contrasting the surrounding desert landscape. Events 1. Introduction of the Song The book opens with the title, "The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s" (Song of Solomon 1:1). This indicates that the following verses are part of a poetic work attributed to Solomon, often interpreted as an allegory of Christ's love for the Church. 2. The Bride's Longing The bride expresses her desire for the bridegroom's love, saying, "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine" (Song of Solomon 1:2). The Hebrew word for "love" here, "דּוֹדֶיךָ" (dodeka), suggests a deep, affectionate love. 3. Praise of the Bridegroom's Name The bride extols the bridegroom's name, stating, "Pleasing is the fragrance of your perfumes; your name is like perfume poured out" (Song of Solomon 1:3). The Hebrew term for "name," "שֵׁם" (shem), implies reputation and character. 4. The Bride's Insecurity The bride acknowledges her own appearance, "I am dark, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem" (Song of Solomon 1:5). This reflects her humility and awareness of her own imperfections, yet she is confident in her beloved's love. 5. The Bride's Request She seeks guidance from the bridegroom, asking, "Tell me, O you whom I love, where you graze your flock and where you rest your sheep at midday" (Song of Solomon 1:7). This request symbolizes a desire for closeness and guidance. 6. The Bridegroom's Response The bridegroom responds with admiration, "If you do not know, O most beautiful of women, follow the tracks of the sheep" (Song of Solomon 1:8). This indicates his affection and provides direction, symbolizing Christ's guidance to the Church. 7. Praise of the Bride's Beauty The bridegroom praises the bride's beauty, "I liken you, my darling, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariots" (Song of Solomon 1:9). The imagery of a mare suggests strength and grace. 8. The Bride's Delight in the Bridegroom The bride expresses her joy in the bridegroom's presence, "While the king was at his table, my perfume spread its fragrance" (Song of Solomon 1:12). This reflects the joy and fulfillment found in the beloved's presence. 9. Mutual Admiration The chapter concludes with mutual expressions of admiration, with the bridegroom and bride exchanging compliments, highlighting the reciprocal nature of their love (Song of Solomon 1:15-17). Lessons from Song of Solomon 1 1. The Beauty of Love and Marriage The Song of Solomon is a celebration of love and marriage, reminding us that these are gifts from God. The poetic imagery in this book highlights the beauty and sanctity of marital love. As it is written, "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine" (Song of Solomon 1:2). This verse encourages us to cherish and nurture the love we share with our spouse, seeing it as a reflection of God's love for us. 2. The Importance of Mutual Admiration In a world that often focuses on flaws, Song of Solomon teaches us the importance of mutual admiration. The Shulammite woman and her beloved exchange words of praise, showing us that affirming each other strengthens the bond of love. "How handsome you are, my beloved! Oh, how charming!" (Song of Solomon 1:16). Let us remember to speak words of encouragement and appreciation to those we love. 3. The Power of Attraction Attraction is a natural and God-given part of relationships. The Song of Solomon acknowledges this, as the Shulammite woman expresses her desire for her beloved: "Take me away with you—let us hurry! Let the king bring me into his chambers" (Song of Solomon 1:4). This teaches us that attraction, when expressed within the boundaries of marriage, is a beautiful and powerful force. 4. The Value of Personal Identity The Shulammite woman is confident in her identity, despite societal pressures. She declares, "I am dark, yet lovely" (Song of Solomon 1:5), embracing her uniqueness. This reminds us that our worth is not defined by external standards but by who we are in Christ. Embrace your God-given identity and let it shine in your relationships. 5. The Joy of Pursuit The pursuit of love is a joyful journey, as depicted in the Song of Solomon. The beloved says, "Tell me, O you whom my soul loves, where you pasture your flock" (Song of Solomon 1:7). This pursuit is not just about finding love but also about deepening it. Let us continually seek to know and understand our loved ones more deeply. 6. The Role of Community The friends of the couple in Song of Solomon play a supportive role, celebrating their love. "We rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine" (Song of Solomon 1:4). This highlights the importance of community in nurturing and supporting relationships. Surround yourself with those who encourage and uplift your marriage. 7. The Significance of Communication Open and honest communication is a cornerstone of any strong relationship. The dialogue between the lovers in Song of Solomon shows us the importance of expressing our feelings and desires. "How right they are to adore you!" (Song of Solomon 1:4). Let us strive to communicate openly with our loved ones, fostering understanding and connection. 8. The Beauty of Nature Nature is a recurring theme in Song of Solomon, symbolizing the beauty and vitality of love. The beloved is compared to a "cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En-gedi" (Song of Solomon 1:14). This reminds us to appreciate the natural world as a reflection of God's creativity and to find inspiration in its beauty for our relationships. 9. The Strength of Commitment The commitment between the lovers in Song of Solomon is unwavering. The Shulammite woman expresses her desire to be with her beloved, saying, "My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh resting between my breasts" (Song of Solomon 1:13). This teaches us the strength and security that comes from a committed relationship, grounded in love and faithfulness. 10. The Reflection of Divine Love Ultimately, the love depicted in Song of Solomon is a reflection of God's love for us. The passion and devotion between the lovers mirror the deep, abiding love that Christ has for His church. As we read, "Your name is like perfume poured out" (Song of Solomon 1:3), we are reminded of the sweet fragrance of divine love that permeates our lives. Let us strive to reflect this love in all our relationships. Topics 1. The Bride's Longing for Her Beloved The opening verses of Song of Solomon 1 express the bride's deep desire and longing for her beloved. She speaks of the sweetness of his love, comparing it to wine, and expresses a yearning to be drawn closer to him. The Hebrew word "דּוֹד" (dod), translated as "beloved," emphasizes a deep, affectionate relationship. 2. The Bride's Self-Perception and Beauty The bride acknowledges her own appearance, describing herself as "dark, yet lovely" (Song of Solomon 1:5). This reflects a humble self-awareness and an understanding of her own beauty despite societal standards. The Hebrew word "שְׁחוֹרָה" (shechorah) for "dark" indicates a sun-tanned complexion, which she attributes to working in the vineyards. 3. The Bride's Request for Guidance In verse 7, the bride seeks guidance from her beloved, asking where he pastures his flock. This request signifies her desire to be near him and to understand his ways. The Hebrew root "רָעָה" (ra'ah), meaning "to pasture" or "to shepherd," highlights the pastoral imagery prevalent in the text. 4. The Beloved's Praise of the Bride The beloved responds by praising the bride's beauty, comparing her to a mare among Pharaoh's chariots (Song of Solomon 1:9). This metaphor underscores her uniqueness and captivating presence. The Hebrew word "סוּסָה" (susah) for "mare" suggests strength and grace. 5. The Bride's Delight in Her Beloved The bride expresses her delight in the beloved, describing the pleasantness of their relationship and the fragrance of his presence (Song of Solomon 1:12-14). The imagery of myrrh and henna blossoms conveys a sense of richness and intimacy. The Hebrew "מֹר" (mor) for "myrrh" and "כֹּפֶר" (koper) for "henna" emphasize the aromatic and precious nature of their love. 6. Mutual Admiration and Affection The chapter concludes with mutual expressions of admiration and affection between the bride and her beloved. They exchange compliments, highlighting the beauty and charm they see in each other (Song of Solomon 1:15-17). The Hebrew word "יָפָה" (yafah) for "beautiful" and "נָעִים" (na'im) for "pleasant" reflect the deep appreciation and love they share. Themes 1. Love and Desire Song of Solomon 1:2 states, "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine." This verse highlights the theme of love and desire, emphasizing the deep affection and longing between the lovers. The Hebrew word for love here, "אַהֲבָה" (ahavah), conveys a sense of deep emotional and physical attraction. 2. Beauty and Attraction In Song of Solomon 1:5, the Shulammite woman declares, "I am dark, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem." This theme explores the perception of beauty and attraction, acknowledging both physical appearance and inner beauty. The Hebrew word "נָאוֶה" (na'veh) for lovely suggests a sense of grace and charm. 3. Identity and Self-Perception The Shulammite's self-description in Song of Solomon 1:6, "Do not stare because I am dark, for the sun has gazed upon me," reflects the theme of identity and self-perception. It addresses societal views and personal acceptance, highlighting the tension between external judgments and internal self-worth. 4. Intimacy and Relationship Song of Solomon 1:4 says, "Draw me after you, let us run. The king has brought me into his chambers." This theme underscores the desire for intimacy and closeness in relationships. The Hebrew root "מָשַׁךְ" (mashak) for "draw" implies a pulling or leading into a deeper connection. 5. Joy and Celebration The verse Song of Solomon 1:4 also includes, "We will rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine." This theme captures the joy and celebration found in love, where the relationship is a source of happiness and delight. The Hebrew word "גִּיל" (gil) for rejoice conveys a sense of exultation and gladness. 6. Purity and Sincerity In Song of Solomon 1:3, it is written, "Pleasing is the fragrance of your perfumes; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the maidens love you." This theme highlights purity and sincerity, as the fragrance symbolizes a good reputation and genuine character. The Hebrew word "שֵׁם" (shem) for name signifies one's character and reputation. Prayer Points Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of God's design for love and marriage. Ask God to help you cultivate a character that is pleasing to Him and attractive to others. Seek God's guidance in pursuing intimacy and closeness in your relationships. Pray for the ability to see yourself as God sees you, embracing your unique beauty and worth. Request wisdom and discernment in involving community in your relationship journey, valuing their support and counsel. Answering Tough Questions 1. Song of Solomon 1:1 attributes the text to Solomon, yet there is limited archaeological evidence for his personal authorship or historical reign. How can this claim be substantiated? 2. Song of Solomon 1:5–6 emphasizes the speaker’s dark complexion and social status. Does this suggest cultural or ethnic inconsistencies with known historical contexts? 3. Is there archaeological or historical evidence of Pharaoh's cavalry that supports the mare comparison in Song of Solomon 1:9 from Solomon's era? 4. The lavish imagery in Song of Solomon 1 implies a royal court with abundant wealth. Is there corroborating historical evidence that Solomon’s kingdom was this prosperous? 5. Song of Solomon 1’s romantic and sensual tone appears disconnected from typical biblical narratives. Does its inclusion challenge the broader scriptural theme and message? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the woman’s self-perception in verse 5-6 influence your understanding of her character? 2. How do the repeated mentions of nature and its elements contribute to the portrayal of love in this chapter? 3. What does the exchange between the lovers reveal about their relationship dynamics? 4. How do you interpret the metaphor of the man as a sachet of myrrh or a cluster of henna blossoms? 5. In what ways does the language used in this chapter capture the essence of romantic love? 6. What does the man's response to the woman's self-consciousness tell us about acceptance and love? 7. How can the expressions of love in this chapter be manifested in modern relationships? 8. What lessons can be learned from the mutual respect and admiration between the lovers? 9. How might the open expression of desire as portrayed in this chapter influence your understanding of healthy relationships? 10. What does the phrase "our bed is verdant" symbolize in the context of their relationship? 11. How can the metaphorical language used in Song of Solomon Chapter 1 help us communicate our feelings more effectively? 12. What practical steps can you take to celebrate and affirm the beauty of your significant other, as seen in the behavior of the lovers? 13. How does the woman's longing for her beloved's presence challenge or confirm your perception of desire in relationships? 14. How can the vineyard metaphor be applied to our lives and relationships today? 15. In what ways can you relate to the woman's feelings of insecurity and how does that influence your interaction with others? 16. How do the themes of Song of Solomon Chapter 1 resonate with your current understanding of love? 17. How would you handle feelings of inadequacy in a relationship, as the woman expresses in verse 6? 18. How can the portrayal of love in this chapter influence the way we approach relationships in contemporary society? 19. How does the assurance given by the man in verses 8-11 reflect the importance of emotional safety in relationships? 20. Based on your reading of this chapter, how can society better encourage and foster genuine expressions of love and longing? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions