Song of Solomon 6:13

Come back, come back, O Shulammite! Come back, come back, that we may gaze upon you. Why do you look at the Shulammite, as on the dance of Mahanaim?

Study Bible

Come back, come back
The repetition of "come back" emphasizes a deep longing and urgency. In Hebrew, the word used here is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to return or turn back. This call reflects a desire for reconciliation and restoration, echoing the biblical theme of repentance and return to God. The repetition signifies the intensity of the speaker's yearning, akin to God's call for His people to return to Him throughout the Scriptures.

O Shulammite
The term "Shulammite" is unique to this passage and is often understood to refer to the beloved woman in the Song of Solomon. The name is thought to be a feminine form of "Solomon," suggesting a connection or equality with the king. This highlights the mutual love and respect between the lovers, symbolizing the ideal relationship between Christ and His Church. The Shulammite represents beauty, grace, and the beloved community of believers.

that we may gaze upon you
The desire to "gaze upon" the Shulammite indicates admiration and appreciation. In Hebrew culture, gazing implies a deep, contemplative look, often associated with love and adoration. This reflects the way God views His people, with love and delight. The community's desire to gaze upon the Shulammite can also symbolize the Church's witness to the world, drawing others to the beauty of a life transformed by Christ.

Why would you gaze on the Shulammite
This rhetorical question challenges the motives behind the desire to gaze. It suggests a deeper reflection on the nature of beauty and worth. In a spiritual sense, it prompts believers to consider why they are drawn to Christ and His Church. The question invites introspection about the true source of beauty and the reasons for our devotion.

as on the dance of Mahanaim?
The "dance of Mahanaim" is a phrase that has intrigued scholars. Mahanaim, meaning "two camps" in Hebrew, was a place of significant biblical events, including Jacob's encounter with angels (Genesis 32:1-2). The dance could symbolize a celebration or a spiritual encounter. In the context of the Song, it may represent the joy and harmony found in the union of the lovers, paralleling the joy of the believer's relationship with God. The dance signifies a divine choreography, where love and grace move in perfect harmony.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shulammite
The female protagonist in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as a representation of the bride or beloved. Her identity is a subject of much discussion, with some seeing her as a historical figure and others as a symbolic representation of Israel or the Church.

2. Mahanaim
A place mentioned in the Old Testament, known for its significance in the account of Jacob and later as a city of refuge. The "dance of Mahanaim" is a phrase that has sparked various interpretations, possibly referring to a celebratory or ritualistic dance.

Teaching Points

The Beauty of Holiness
The repeated call to the Shulammite to "come back" reflects the admiration and desire for the beauty of holiness. As believers, we are called to reflect the beauty of Christ in our lives.

The Dance of Joy
The reference to the "dance of Mahanaim" can be seen as an invitation to participate in the joy and celebration of God's presence. Our lives should be a dance of joy, reflecting the grace and love we have received.

The Pursuit of Intimacy
Just as the beloved seeks the Shulammite, God seeks an intimate relationship with us. We are invited to return to Him and experience the depth of His love.

The Call to Return
The repeated plea to "come back" serves as a reminder of God's persistent call for us to return to Him, especially when we stray. It emphasizes His unwavering love and desire for reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the repeated call to the Shulammite to "come back" reveal about God's nature and His relationship with us?

2. How can the "dance of Mahanaim" be understood in the context of our spiritual journey and relationship with God?

3. In what ways does the Shulammite's account parallel the Church's relationship with Christ, as described in Ephesians 5?

4. How can we reflect the beauty and holiness of the Shulammite in our daily lives, and what practical steps can we take to achieve this?

5. What are some modern-day "Mahanaim" experiences where you have felt God's presence and protection, and how did these experiences impact your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 32
Mahanaim is first mentioned in the context of Jacob's encounter with angels, symbolizing divine presence and protection. This connection may suggest a deeper spiritual significance to the "dance of Mahanaim."

Psalm 45
Often seen as a royal wedding song, it parallels the themes of love and admiration found in the Song of Solomon, highlighting the beauty and dignity of the bride.

Ephesians 5
The relationship between Christ and the Church is likened to a marriage, providing a New Testament perspective on the themes of love and unity found in the Song of Solomon.