◄ Song of Solomon 6 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Together in the Garden Song of Solomon 6 reminds us of the steadfast nature of love, its enduring beauty, and the joy of rekindled connection. It encourages us to seek, cherish, and praise the beauty in those we love. It challenges us to maintain the passion, appreciation, and mutual longing necessary to foster deep, faithful love. The Search (Verses 1-3) The daughters of Jerusalem ask the Shulammite woman where her beloved has gone. She answers confidently that her beloved has gone to his garden. She maintains her faithfulness to her lover, claiming that she belongs to her beloved and he belongs to her. Admiration (Verses 4-10) The beloved takes over the narrative, expressing his admiration for the Shulammite woman. He compares her beauty to famous and majestic locations like Tirzah, Jerusalem, and armies with banners. The beloved describes her eyes as doves and her hair as a flock of goats. He is clearly awestruck by her beauty, reflecting the depths of his love for her. Longing and Discovery (Verses 11-13) In the final verses, the Shulammite woman expresses her longing for her lover and invites him to join her in the gardens. Her desire to be with her lover evokes a sense of longing and anticipation. Song of Solomon Chapter 6 offers a profound exploration of love, adoration, and beauty through the eyes of lovers. The passionate discourse between the Shulammite woman and her beloved paints a vivid tapestry of longing, search, and discovery. It also serves as a poetic guide to the depths of romantic and faithful love. Teaching Points The Search for the Beloved The chapter begins with the daughters of Jerusalem asking, Where has your beloved gone, O most beautiful among women? (Song of Solomon 6:1). This highlights the communal aspect of love and the importance of seeking and valuing the beloved. Admiration and Praise The bridegroom's description of his beloved in verses 4-10 is filled with admiration. He compares her to Tirzah and Jerusalem, cities known for their beauty and strength (Song of Solomon 6:4). This teaches us the importance of expressing appreciation and admiration in relationships. Unique and Special The bride is described as unique and the only daughter of her mother (Song of Solomon 6:9). This emphasizes the value of seeing one's partner as unique and irreplaceable, a perspective that fosters deep respect and love. Beauty and Awe The bridegroom's awe is evident as he describes his beloved as awesome as an army with banners (Song of Solomon 6:10). This metaphor suggests that true beauty is powerful and commanding, worthy of reverence. Practical Applications Express Appreciation Regularly express admiration and appreciation for your spouse or loved ones. Acknowledge their unique qualities and the ways they enrich your life. Seek and Value Relationships Just as the daughters of Jerusalem sought the beloved, prioritize seeking and nurturing your relationships. Value the people God has placed in your life. Celebrate Uniqueness Recognize and celebrate the unique qualities of those you love. Avoid comparisons and appreciate them for who they are. Embrace Beauty with Reverence Understand that true beauty is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional. Approach it with reverence and gratitude. People 1. The Beloved (Bridegroom) Often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of Christ, the Beloved is the male figure who expresses deep love and admiration for the Shulammite. He praises her beauty and uniqueness, highlighting the intimate and cherished relationship between them. The Hebrew term "דּוֹדִי" (dodi) is used, meaning "my beloved." 2. The Shulammite (Bride) The female protagonist, often seen as a representation of the Church or the individual believer. She is the object of the Beloved's affection and is described with vivid imagery that emphasizes her beauty and purity. The term "שׁוּלַמִּית" (Shulammith) is used, which is thought to be a feminine form of Solomon or a reference to her place of origin. 3. The Daughters of Jerusalem These are the chorus-like figures who interact with the Shulammite, often asking questions or making observations. They represent the community or onlookers who witness the love between the Beloved and the Shulammite. The Hebrew term "בְּנוֹת יְרוּשָׁלִַם" (benot Yerushalayim) is used, meaning "daughters of Jerusalem." Places 1. Garden The garden is a recurring motif in the Song of Solomon, symbolizing beauty, fertility, and intimacy. In Song of Solomon 6:2, the beloved says, "My beloved has gone down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to graze in the gardens and gather lilies." The Hebrew word for garden, "גַּן" (gan), often represents a place of delight and abundance. 2. Beds of Spices This phrase refers to the lush and aromatic areas within the garden, as mentioned in Song of Solomon 6:2. The "beds of spices" symbolize the richness and allure of the beloved's presence and the relationship. 3. Terraces of Lebanon In Song of Solomon 6:4, the beloved is compared to "Tirzah, my darling, as lovely as Jerusalem, as majestic as an army with banners." The terraces of Lebanon are not directly mentioned in this verse, but Lebanon is often associated with majesty and grandeur in biblical poetry. The Hebrew root "לְבָנוֹן" (Levanon) signifies the majestic mountain range known for its cedars. 4. Tirzah Tirzah is mentioned in Song of Solomon 6:4 as a place of beauty. Historically, Tirzah was a city known for its pleasantness and was once the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. The name "תִּרְצָה" (Tirzah) in Hebrew can mean "delight" or "pleasure." 5. Jerusalem Also in Song of Solomon 6:4, Jerusalem is used as a metaphor for beauty and splendor. The city holds deep spiritual and historical significance as the center of worship and the heart of Israel. The Hebrew "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) is often associated with peace and divine presence. Events 1. The Daughters of Jerusalem Inquire The chapter begins with the daughters of Jerusalem asking the Shulammite woman where her beloved has gone. They express a desire to seek him with her. This reflects the communal aspect of seeking love and the importance of fellowship in relationships. (Song of Solomon 6:1) 2. The Shulammite's Response The Shulammite woman responds by affirming her beloved's presence in the garden, among the beds of spices, indicating a place of intimacy and delight. This symbolizes the deep and personal relationship between the lovers. (Song of Solomon 6:2) 3. Mutual Belonging She declares, "I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine; he grazes among the lilies." This statement emphasizes mutual possession and commitment, reflecting the covenantal nature of love. The Hebrew root for "beloved" (דּוֹדִי, dodi) signifies a deep, affectionate relationship. (Song of Solomon 6:3) 4. The Beloved's Praise The beloved praises the Shulammite's beauty, comparing her to Tirzah and Jerusalem, cities known for their splendor. He describes her as "majestic as an army with banners," highlighting her captivating presence and strength. (Song of Solomon 6:4) 5. Description of Beauty The beloved continues to describe her beauty, focusing on her eyes, hair, teeth, and temples. Each feature is likened to elements of nature and strength, such as flocks of goats and pomegranates, illustrating the harmony and allure of her appearance. (Song of Solomon 6:5-7) 6. Unique and Peerless The beloved declares that there are sixty queens and eighty concubines, but the Shulammite is unique and unparalleled. This underscores her singularity and the exclusivity of their relationship. The Hebrew term for "unique" (אַחַת, achat) conveys the idea of being one-of-a-kind. (Song of Solomon 6:8-9) 7. Admiration by Others The daughters and queens praise the Shulammite, acknowledging her beauty and grace. This communal recognition reinforces her esteemed position and the admiration she commands. (Song of Solomon 6:9) 8. The Shulammite's Radiance The beloved describes her as "bright as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun," emphasizing her radiant and awe-inspiring presence. These celestial comparisons highlight her transcendent beauty. (Song of Solomon 6:10) 9. The Shulammite's Garden Visit The Shulammite recounts her visit to the garden of nut trees to see the budding vines and pomegranates. This reflects a return to nature and the renewal of love, symbolizing growth and fertility. (Song of Solomon 6:11) 10. Sudden Realization She expresses a sudden awareness of her elevated status, as if her soul had been set among the chariots of her noble people. This indicates a recognition of her worth and the honor bestowed upon her. (Song of Solomon 6:12) Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 31:10 Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far more than rubies. This verse complements the theme of valuing and admiring one's spouse. Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. This New Testament passage echoes the call to love and cherish one's spouse deeply. 1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, in the same way, treat your wives with consideration as a delicate vessel, and with honor as fellow heirs of the gracious gift of life. This verse reinforces the importance of respect and honor in relationships. Prayer Points Gratitude for Relationships Thank God for the relationships in your life and ask for His guidance in nurturing them. Wisdom in Love Pray for wisdom to love others as Christ loves the church, with selflessness and commitment. Appreciation and Admiration Ask God to help you see and appreciate the unique qualities in your loved ones and to express admiration genuinely. Reverence for Beauty Pray for a heart that recognizes and reveres the true beauty in others, as a reflection of God's creation. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the Shulammite woman's confidence in her beloved's location reflect her trust in their relationship? 2. How can we apply the concept of steadfast love in our own relationships? 3. The lover's description of the Shulammite woman is full of symbolism. What do these symbols mean, and how do they reflect his view of her? 4. How does the use of nature throughout the chapter reflect the purity and depth of their love? 5. What does the term "faithful love" mean to you based on this chapter? 6. How does the beloved's admiration for the Shulammite woman challenge modern standards of beauty? 7. How does the mutual longing between the Shulammite woman and her lover mirror our spiritual longing for God? 8. How does the anticipation of reuniting with the beloved in verse 13 inspire you in your spiritual journey? 9. In what ways can you apply the themes of longing, search, and discovery to your personal spiritual journey? 10. How does the use of specific locations in the lover's description of the Shulammite woman's beauty provide a deeper meaning to his admiration? 11. What do the gardens symbolize in the context of their relationship? 12. How can the steadfast love depicted in this chapter be a model for modern relationships? 13. What does it mean to 'belong' to someone in the context of a loving relationship as described in this chapter? 14. How does this chapter challenge or affirm your views on romantic love? 15. How does the Shulammite woman’s invitation to her lover to join her in the gardens reflect on the idea of invitation in relationships? 16. In the face of adversity or separation, how would you maintain faithfulness and connection as shown in this chapter? 17. How can the imagery used in the lover's description of the Shulammite woman inspire a deeper appreciation for beauty in your daily life? 18. How does this chapter inspire you to express your feelings towards your loved ones more openly and honestly? 19. How does the anticipation of reunion depicted in this chapter apply to your feelings about the promise of eternal life? 20. In what ways can the themes in this chapter be applied to strengthen your relationship with God? Topics 1. The Beauty of the Beloved (Song of Solomon 6:1-3) This section highlights the admiration and search for the beloved. The daughters of Jerusalem inquire about the whereabouts of the beloved, and the bride responds by affirming her deep connection with him. The Hebrew word "דּוֹדִי" (dodi), meaning "my beloved," emphasizes the intimate and exclusive relationship between the bride and her beloved. The passage reflects the mutual belonging and commitment, as seen in the phrase, "I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine" (Song of Solomon 6:3). 2. The Majesty of the Bride (Song of Solomon 6:4-7) The bridegroom extols the beauty and majesty of the bride, comparing her to cities and natural wonders. The use of metaphors such as "as beautiful as Tirzah" and "as lovely as Jerusalem" (Song of Solomon 6:4) underscores her captivating presence. The Hebrew word "יָפָה" (yafah), meaning "beautiful," is used to describe her, indicating a beauty that is both physical and spiritual. 3. The Uniqueness of the Bride (Song of Solomon 6:8-9) The bride is distinguished from others, described as "unique" and "the only daughter of her mother" (Song of Solomon 6:9). This section emphasizes her singularity and the special place she holds in the eyes of the bridegroom. The Hebrew term "אַחַת" (achat), meaning "one" or "unique," highlights her distinctiveness and the exclusivity of her relationship with the bridegroom. 4. The Praise of the Bride by Others (Song of Solomon 6:10) The bride is admired not only by the bridegroom but also by others, who describe her as "bright as the sun, as majestic as the stars in procession" (Song of Solomon 6:10). This communal recognition of her beauty and grace suggests a broader acknowledgment of her virtues. The imagery used here reflects her radiant and awe-inspiring presence. 5. The Bridegroom’s Delight in the Bride (Song of Solomon 6:11-12) The bridegroom expresses his delight and joy in the presence of the bride. The passage conveys a sense of surprise and wonder at the bride's beauty and the effect she has on him. The Hebrew root "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning "to return" or "to turn back," is used in the context of the bridegroom's desire to be with the bride, indicating a longing and eagerness to be reunited with her. 6. The Call to Return (Song of Solomon 6:13) The chapter concludes with a call for the bride to return, emphasizing the desire for her presence. The repeated plea, "Return, return, O Shulammite" (Song of Solomon 6:13), underscores the longing and anticipation for her return. The name "Shulammite" is derived from the Hebrew root "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning "peace" or "completeness," suggesting that her presence brings fulfillment and harmony. Themes 1. Beauty and Admiration In Song of Solomon 6, there is a strong theme of beauty and admiration, particularly in the way the beloved is described. The lover praises the beloved's beauty, comparing her to "Tirzah" and "Jerusalem" (Song of Solomon 6:4). The Hebrew word for beauty, "יָפֶה" (yafeh), emphasizes the aesthetic and pleasing nature of the beloved, highlighting the admiration and deep affection present in the relationship. 2. Unity and Exclusivity The theme of unity and exclusivity is evident in the description of the beloved as "my dove, my perfect one" (Song of Solomon 6:9). The Hebrew word "תַּמָּתִי" (tamati) for "perfect one" suggests completeness and uniqueness, underscoring the exclusive bond between the lovers. This reflects the conservative Christian view of marriage as a sacred and exclusive union. 3. Praise and Honor The passage also emphasizes praise and honor, as the beloved is exalted among "queens and concubines" (Song of Solomon 6:8-9). The Hebrew root "שָׁבַח" (shabach) for praise indicates a public declaration of admiration and respect, aligning with the Christian principle of honoring one's spouse. 4. Divine Creation and Order The imagery of gardens and natural beauty in Song of Solomon 6:11-12 reflects the theme of divine creation and order. The Hebrew word "גַּן" (gan) for garden symbolizes a place of life and growth, pointing to God's creative power and the order He establishes in relationships. 5. Restoration and Reconciliation The theme of restoration and reconciliation is subtly present in the return to the garden imagery, suggesting a renewal of love and commitment. The Hebrew concept of "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning to return or restore, is implicit in the movement back to a place of intimacy and connection, resonating with the Christian belief in forgiveness and reconciliation within relationships. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions