Song of Solomon 1:5

I am dark, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon.

Study Bible

I am dark
The Hebrew word for "dark" here is "שְׁחוֹרָה" (shechorah), which can mean dark or black. This phrase reflects the speaker's acknowledgment of her complexion, which may have been darkened by the sun. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a darker complexion was often associated with outdoor labor, suggesting humility and hard work. This acknowledgment of her appearance is not a statement of shame but rather an honest self-assessment, which sets the stage for the following contrast.

yet lovely
The Hebrew word "נָאוָה" (navah) translates to "lovely" or "beautiful." This phrase highlights the paradox of the speaker's self-perception. Despite her darkened skin, she recognizes her own beauty. This duality emphasizes the theme of inner beauty and worth, transcending societal standards. It serves as a reminder that true beauty is not merely skin deep but is found in one's character and spirit.

O daughters of Jerusalem
This phrase addresses the women of Jerusalem, who represent the societal norms and expectations of beauty. The "daughters of Jerusalem" are often seen as a chorus or audience within the Song of Solomon, providing a communal perspective. By addressing them directly, the speaker invites them to reconsider their perceptions of beauty and worth, challenging them to see beyond superficial appearances.

like the tents of Kedar
Kedar was a nomadic tribe known for their black, goat-hair tents. The mention of Kedar evokes images of rugged, yet functional beauty. The tents, though dark, were essential and valuable, providing shelter and protection. This comparison suggests that the speaker's beauty, like the tents, is both practical and profound, rooted in strength and resilience.

like the curtains of Solomon
The "curtains of Solomon" likely refer to the luxurious and ornate hangings within King Solomon's palace. These curtains would have been rich in color and texture, symbolizing opulence and splendor. By comparing herself to these curtains, the speaker asserts her own worth and beauty, aligning herself with the grandeur of Solomon's reign. This juxtaposition with the tents of Kedar underscores the multifaceted nature of beauty, combining both simplicity and magnificence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Shulammite Woman
The speaker in this verse, often interpreted as the bride or beloved in the Song of Solomon. She expresses her self-awareness and beauty despite her dark complexion.

2. Daughters of Jerusalem
A group of women addressed by the Shulammite, often seen as a chorus or audience within the poem, representing societal norms or expectations.

3. Tents of Kedar
Kedar was a nomadic tribe known for their black goat-hair tents. This imagery highlights the Shulammite's dark complexion.

4. Curtains of Solomon
These likely refer to the luxurious and beautiful curtains in King Solomon's palace, symbolizing beauty and splendor.

5. Solomon
The attributed author of the Song of Solomon, representing wisdom and wealth, and often seen as the bridegroom in the allegory.

Teaching Points

Embrace Your God-Given Identity
The Shulammite's declaration of being "dark, yet lovely" encourages believers to embrace their unique identity and beauty as created by God.

Challenge Societal Standards
The contrast between the tents of Kedar and the curtains of Solomon invites reflection on how societal standards of beauty can be challenged and redefined.

Value Inner Beauty
The reference to the "curtains of Solomon" suggests that true beauty is not just external but also reflects inner qualities and character.

Community and Self-Perception
The address to the "daughters of Jerusalem" highlights the role of community in shaping self-perception and the importance of affirming one another's worth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Shulammite woman's declaration in Song of Solomon 1:5 challenge modern societal standards of beauty?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of being "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14) to our daily lives?

3. How can the imagery of the "tents of Kedar" and "curtains of Solomon" help us understand the balance between external appearance and inner beauty?

4. What role does community play in shaping our self-perception, and how can we encourage others to see their God-given beauty?

5. How can the message of 1 Samuel 16:7, that God looks at the heart, influence our interactions with others and our self-view?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:27
This verse speaks of humanity being created in the image of God, which connects to the Shulammite's acknowledgment of her inherent beauty despite societal standards.

1 Samuel 16:7
This verse emphasizes that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearance, aligning with the Shulammite's confidence in her beauty.

Psalm 139:14
This verse speaks of being fearfully and wonderfully made, reinforcing the Shulammite's declaration of her loveliness.