Song of Solomon 5:13

His cheeks are like beds of spice, towers of perfume. His lips are like lilies, dripping with flowing myrrh.

Study Bible

His cheeks are like beds of spice
This phrase evokes the imagery of a garden, a common motif in the Song of Solomon, symbolizing beauty, fertility, and abundance. In ancient Near Eastern culture, gardens were places of delight and rest, often associated with love and intimacy. The comparison to "beds of spice" suggests a richness and allure, as spices were valuable and used for anointing and fragrance. This imagery can be seen as a metaphor for the attractiveness and desirability of the beloved. In a broader biblical context, gardens and spices are often associated with the presence of God and the blessings of creation, as seen in Genesis and the descriptions of the Garden of Eden.

towers of perfume
The reference to "towers of perfume" suggests strength and prominence combined with a pleasing aroma. Towers in ancient times were symbols of protection and might, often part of city fortifications. The combination of strength with fragrance implies a balance of power and gentleness, a theme that resonates with the character of Christ, who embodies both authority and compassion. Perfume in biblical times was used in worship and anointing, signifying holiness and consecration. This dual imagery can be seen as a reflection of the divine nature, where strength is tempered with grace.

His lips are like lilies
Lilies are frequently mentioned in the Bible as symbols of purity and beauty. The comparison of lips to lilies suggests words that are pure, gentle, and beautiful. In the context of the Song of Solomon, this can be seen as an expression of the beloved's eloquence and the sweetness of his speech. The lily is also a symbol of Christ in Christian typology, representing His purity and the beauty of His teachings. This imagery connects to other scriptures where the words of God are described as pure and life-giving, such as in the Psalms and Proverbs.

dripping with flowing myrrh
Myrrh was a precious resin used in anointing oils and perfumes, often associated with burial and sacrifice, as seen in the gifts brought by the Magi to Jesus and in the preparation of His body for burial. The imagery of lips "dripping with flowing myrrh" suggests words that are not only sweet but also sacrificial and costly. This can be interpreted as a type of Christ, whose words bring life and healing but also involve sacrifice and redemption. The use of myrrh connects to the idea of Christ's suffering and the redemptive power of His sacrifice, as seen throughout the New Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The primary subject of this verse, often interpreted as a representation of Christ in allegorical readings, or as Solomon himself in the literal sense.

2. The Shulammite
The speaker in this passage, expressing her admiration and love for her beloved.

3. Spice and Myrrh
Symbolic elements in the verse, representing beauty, value, and the richness of love.

4. Lilies
Often used in biblical poetry to symbolize purity and beauty.

5. Song of Solomon
A poetic book in the Old Testament, celebrating love and often interpreted as an allegory of God's love for His people.

Teaching Points

The Beauty of Christ
Just as the beloved is described with rich and fragrant imagery, Christ's character and love are beautiful and worthy of admiration.

Symbolism of Myrrh and Spices
Myrrh, often used in anointing and burial, symbolizes sacrifice and the depth of Christ's love for us.

Purity and Devotion
The imagery of lilies and spices calls believers to pursue purity and a fragrant life of devotion to God.

The Intimacy of Relationship
The personal and intimate language encourages believers to cultivate a deep, personal relationship with Christ.

Reflecting Christ's Beauty
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His beauty and love in our interactions with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of spices and myrrh in Song of Solomon 5:13 enhance our understanding of the beloved's character?

2. In what ways can the description of the beloved's lips as lilies inspire us to speak words of purity and grace?

3. How does the intimate language of Song of Solomon challenge us to deepen our relationship with Christ?

4. What parallels can we draw between the beloved in Song of Solomon and the depiction of Christ in other scriptures?

5. How can we apply the concept of reflecting Christ's beauty in our daily lives and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 45
This royal wedding psalm shares similar themes of beauty and majesty, often seen as a messianic prophecy.

Ephesians 5:25-27
The relationship between Christ and the Church is likened to a marriage, emphasizing love and purity.

John 12:3
The anointing of Jesus with costly perfume, connecting to the imagery of myrrh and the value of love and devotion.