Song of Solomon 2:7

O 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.

Study Bible

O daughters of Jerusalem
This phrase addresses the women of Jerusalem, symbolizing a collective audience or community of believers. In the Hebrew context, "daughters" (בָּנוֹת, banot) often refers to inhabitants or members of a group. Jerusalem, the holy city, represents the spiritual center of Israel, a place of divine presence and worship. The phrase suggests a communal call to heed wisdom and instruction, emphasizing the importance of shared values and collective understanding in matters of love and relationships.

I adjure you
The term "adjure" (הִשְׁבַּעְתִּי, hishbati) is a solemn charge or oath, indicating the seriousness of the speaker's request. In ancient Hebrew culture, oaths were binding and sacred, reflecting a deep commitment to truth and integrity. This invocation underscores the gravity of the message, urging the audience to consider the weight of their actions and decisions regarding love.

by the gazelles and the does of the field
Gazelles and does are symbols of grace, beauty, and gentleness in the natural world. In the Hebrew context, these animals (צְבָאוֹת, tsevaot and אַיָּלוֹת, ayalot) evoke images of purity and innocence. The invocation of these creatures suggests a connection to the natural order and the divine design of creation. It implies that love, like nature, should be approached with reverence and respect, honoring its inherent beauty and sanctity.

Do not arouse or awaken love
The repetition of "arouse" (תָּעִירוּ, ta'iru) and "awaken" (תְּעוֹרְרוּ, te'oreru) emphasizes the caution against prematurely stirring emotions or desires. In the Hebrew tradition, love is seen as a powerful force that should be nurtured and allowed to develop in its own time. This admonition reflects the wisdom of patience and discernment, recognizing that true love flourishes when it is not forced or rushed.

until the time is right
The phrase "until the time is right" (עַד שֶׁתֶּחְפָּץ, ad shetechpatz) speaks to the divine timing and order established by God. In the biblical worldview, there is an appointed time for every purpose under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1). This counsel encourages believers to trust in God's perfect timing, understanding that love, when aligned with His will, brings fulfillment and joy. It is a reminder to wait upon the Lord, allowing His wisdom to guide the unfolding of relationships and the expression of love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daughters of Jerusalem
These are likely young women of the city, representing a collective audience or witnesses to the love account unfolding in the Song of Solomon. They serve as a chorus or audience to the dialogue between the lovers.

2. Gazelles and Does of the Field
These animals are symbols of beauty, grace, and gentleness. They are often used in biblical poetry to evoke a sense of natural beauty and the delicate nature of love.

3. The Speaker
The speaker in this verse is traditionally understood to be the Shulammite woman, who is addressing the daughters of Jerusalem. She is expressing a deep and personal understanding of love's timing.

4. Love
In this context, love is portrayed as a powerful and profound emotion that should not be rushed or forced. It is something to be respected and approached with patience.

5. The Field
Symbolically, the field represents a natural and open space, suggesting that love should be as free and unencumbered as the creatures that inhabit it.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Timing in Love
Love should not be rushed. Just as the natural world has seasons, so does love. Waiting for the right time ensures that love is genuine and lasting.

Respect for the Natural Order
The use of gazelles and does symbolizes the beauty and order of creation. Love should be approached with the same respect and reverence.

Guarding the Heart
Protecting one's heart is crucial. Prematurely engaging in love can lead to heartache and complications. Wisdom and discernment are necessary.

Community and Accountability
The daughters of Jerusalem represent a community that holds each other accountable. In relationships, having a supportive community can provide guidance and perspective.

Patience as a Virtue
Patience is a key aspect of love. Waiting for the right time allows love to develop naturally and healthily.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of gazelles and does enhance our understanding of the nature of love in this verse?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of "not arousing or awakening love until the time is right" in modern relationships?

3. How does the concept of timing in love relate to the broader biblical theme of seasons and timing found in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8?

4. What role does community play in helping individuals navigate the complexities of love, as seen with the daughters of Jerusalem?

5. How can we cultivate patience in our relationships, and what are some practical steps to ensure we are waiting for the right time in love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
This passage speaks to the idea that there is a time for everything, including love. It emphasizes the importance of timing in all aspects of life.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7
This passage describes the characteristics of love, highlighting patience and kindness, which align with the idea of not rushing love.

Proverbs 4:23
This verse advises guarding one's heart, which connects to the caution against prematurely awakening love.