Song of Solomon 4:6

Before the day breaks and the shadows flee, I will make my way to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense.

Study Bible

Before the day breaks
This phrase evokes the anticipation of dawn, symbolizing a time of new beginnings and hope. In the Hebrew context, "day" (יוֹם, yom) often represents clarity and revelation. The breaking of the day signifies the transition from darkness to light, a metaphor for spiritual awakening and divine intervention. Historically, dawn was a time of preparation and readiness, reflecting the believer's call to be vigilant and expectant of God's presence.

and the shadows flee
Shadows in Scripture often symbolize obscurity, fear, or the unknown. The Hebrew word for "shadows" (צְלָלִים, tzelalim) can imply the transient and fleeting nature of earthly concerns. The fleeing of shadows suggests the dispelling of fear and confusion, as God's truth and love illuminate the believer's path. This imagery reassures the faithful of the ultimate triumph of light over darkness, a core tenet of Christian hope.

I will go
This phrase indicates a deliberate and personal decision to seek out a sacred encounter. The act of going is a metaphor for spiritual pursuit and devotion. In the Hebrew tradition, movement towards a holy place often signifies a pilgrimage or a journey of faith. This reflects the believer's commitment to draw nearer to God, embracing the journey with intentionality and purpose.

to the mountain of myrrh
Mountains in biblical literature often represent places of divine revelation and encounter. Myrrh, a fragrant resin used in anointing oils and embalming, symbolizes sacrifice, purification, and love. The "mountain of myrrh" suggests a place of deep spiritual significance, where the believer experiences the sweet aroma of Christ's sacrificial love. This imagery invites reflection on the cost of discipleship and the beauty of a life surrendered to God.

and to the hill of frankincense
Hills, like mountains, are elevated places associated with worship and prayer. Frankincense, a precious incense used in temple rituals, represents prayer, worship, and the presence of God. The "hill of frankincense" evokes a sense of ascending to a place of intimate communion with the Divine. This phrase encourages believers to cultivate a life of worship, where their prayers rise like incense before the Lord, creating a fragrant offering of devotion and praise.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse, often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of Christ, expressing love and admiration.

2. The Shulammite
The recipient of the speaker's affection, symbolizing the bride or the church.

3. Mountain of Myrrh
A metaphorical place representing beauty, sacrifice, and love. Myrrh was used in anointing and embalming, symbolizing purity and dedication.

4. Hill of Frankincense
Another metaphorical place, frankincense was used in worship and signifies prayer, devotion, and the presence of God.

5. Daybreak and Shadows
Symbolic of the transition from night to day, representing hope, renewal, and the dispelling of fear or uncertainty.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Myrrh and Frankincense
Myrrh and frankincense are not just aromatic substances but carry deep spiritual meanings. Myrrh represents sacrifice and suffering, while frankincense symbolizes prayer and worship. As believers, we are called to live lives of sacrificial love and constant prayer.

Hope in Transition
The imagery of daybreak and shadows fleeing reminds us that God brings hope and renewal. In times of darkness or uncertainty, we can trust that God will bring clarity and light.

Intimacy with God
The journey to the mountain of myrrh and hill of frankincense can be seen as a pursuit of deeper intimacy with God. Just as the beloved seeks the presence of the Shulammite, we are invited to seek God's presence through worship and prayer.

Christ's Love for the Church
This verse can be seen as a reflection of Christ's enduring love for His church. Just as the beloved is committed to the Shulammite, Christ is committed to His bride, the church, until the end of time.

Living as Fragrance of Christ
As believers, we are called to be the fragrance of Christ in the world. Our lives should reflect His love, sacrifice, and devotion, drawing others to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "daybreak and shadows fleeing" provide comfort in your current life situation?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the symbolism of myrrh and frankincense into your daily walk with God?

3. How does understanding Christ's love for the church as depicted in Song of Solomon 4:6 impact your view of your relationship with Him?

4. What practical steps can you take to be the "fragrance of Christ" in your community?

5. How do the themes of sacrifice and worship in this verse connect to other parts of Scripture, and how can they be applied in your life today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 8:22
The promise of day and night cycles reflects God's faithfulness and the certainty of His promises.

Psalm 23:4
The imagery of shadows fleeing connects to God's guidance and protection through dark times.

Matthew 2:11
The gifts of myrrh and frankincense brought to Jesus by the Magi highlight their significance in worship and prophecy.

Revelation 5:8
The use of incense in worship before God, symbolizing the prayers of the saints, connects to the hill of frankincense.

2 Corinthians 2:15
Believers as the fragrance of Christ, relating to the symbolism of myrrh and frankincense in the life of a Christian.