Song of Solomon 8:7

Mighty waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If a man were to give all the wealth of his house for love, his offer would be utterly scorned.

Study Bible

Mighty waters
The phrase "mighty waters" evokes a powerful image of overwhelming forces, often used in Scripture to symbolize chaos or trials. In the Hebrew context, "mayim rabbim" (מַיִם רַבִּים) suggests not just physical waters but any formidable challenge or adversity. Historically, water was both a life-giving and destructive force in the ancient Near East, representing the unpredictable and uncontrollable aspects of life. Here, it signifies that true love is resilient and cannot be extinguished by even the most daunting circumstances.

Cannot quench love
The Hebrew word for "quench" is "kavah" (כָּבָה), which means to extinguish or put out, like a fire. Love, in this context, is likened to a flame that cannot be doused by external pressures. This imagery aligns with the biblical portrayal of love as a divine and enduring force, echoing the New Testament's depiction of love in 1 Corinthians 13:7, which "always perseveres." Theologically, this suggests that genuine love, rooted in God's nature, is indomitable.

Rivers cannot sweep it away
"Rivers" here, or "naharot" (נְהָרוֹת) in Hebrew, further emphasize the idea of overwhelming natural forces. In ancient times, rivers were both vital for sustenance and feared for their potential to flood and destroy. The phrase implies that love's strength is such that even the most forceful currents cannot displace it. This reflects the biblical theme of love's steadfastness, akin to God's unwavering love for His people.

If a man were to give all the wealth of his house for love
This hypothetical scenario underscores the inestimable value of love. The phrase suggests that no material wealth can equate to or purchase true love. In the ancient world, wealth was often measured by one's household possessions, including land, livestock, and treasures. Theologically, this highlights the biblical principle that love is a gift from God, transcending earthly riches and possessions.

It would be utterly scorned
The term "utterly scorned" translates from the Hebrew "boz yabuzu" (בּוֹז יָבוּזוּ), indicating complete disdain or contempt. This phrase suggests that attempting to buy love is not only futile but also deserving of ridicule. In a broader scriptural context, it reflects the idea that love, as a reflection of God's character, is sacred and cannot be commodified. This aligns with the Christian understanding that love is selfless and sacrificial, as exemplified by Christ's love for humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of the Song of Solomon, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom and wealth. The Song of Solomon is a poetic dialogue celebrating love and marriage.

2. The Shulammite Woman
The beloved in the Song of Solomon, often seen as a representation of the bride in the poetic dialogue. Her love account with Solomon is central to the account.

3. Jerusalem
While not directly mentioned in this verse, Jerusalem is the setting for much of the Song of Solomon, symbolizing a place of beauty and spiritual significance.

4. Love
The central theme of this verse, representing a powerful, unquenchable force that cannot be bought or diminished by external circumstances.

5. Rivers and Waters
Symbolic elements representing challenges or overwhelming circumstances that cannot extinguish true love.

Teaching Points

The Power of Love
True love is a powerful force that cannot be extinguished by external challenges or circumstances. It is enduring and steadfast.

Love's Inestimable Value
Love cannot be bought or sold; it is priceless. Attempting to purchase love diminishes its true value and essence.

God's Love for Us
The love described in this verse can be seen as a reflection of God's love for humanity, which is unwavering and cannot be diminished by any force.

Marital Love as a Reflection of Divine Love
The love between a husband and wife should mirror the steadfast and sacrificial love that God has for His people.

Challenges in Relationships
Just as waters and rivers cannot quench love, challenges in relationships should not extinguish the love that is rooted in commitment and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of love in Song of Solomon 8:7 compare to the love described in 1 Corinthians 13?

2. In what ways can we see the love between Christ and the Church reflected in the marital love described in the Song of Solomon?

3. What are some practical ways to ensure that love in a marriage remains unquenchable, even in the face of challenges?

4. How does understanding the inestimable value of love influence our relationships with others?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed love that could not be "swept away" by circumstances. How did this impact your understanding of love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 13
This chapter describes the nature of love, emphasizing its enduring and selfless qualities, which align with the unquenchable love described in Song of Solomon 8:7.

Ephesians 5:25-33
This passage discusses the love between Christ and the Church, drawing a parallel to the marital love celebrated in the Song of Solomon.

Romans 8:38-39
These verses speak of the inseparable love of God, which cannot be overcome by any external force, similar to the love described in Song of Solomon 8:7.