English · CJB

Song of Solomon3

The Shulamite recounts her nocturnal search for her beloved, whom she eventually finds and brings to her mother's home. She then charges the daughters of Jerusalem not to disturb their love. The chapter concludes with a majestic description of King Solomon's royal procession and his splendid chariot, inviting all to witness his crowned glory on his wedding day.

The Bride's Nightly Search

1
Night after night on my bed I looked for the man I love. I looked for him, but I didn't find him. ​
2
"I will get up now and roam the city, through the streets and the open places, I will look for the man I love." I looked for him, but I didn't find him. ​
3
The guards roaming the city found me. "Have you seen the man I love?" ​
4
Scarcely had I left them, when I found the man I love. I took hold of him and would not let him go until I had brought him to my mother's house, to the bedroom of the woman who conceived me. ​

A Plea for Undisturbed Love

5
I warn you, daughters of Yerushalayim, by the gazelles and deer in the wilds, not to awaken or stir up love until it wants to arise! ​

The Magnificent Arrival of Solomon

6
Who is this, coming up from the desert like a column of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, chosen from the merchant's crushed spices? ​
7
It is Shlomo's litter, escorted by sixty valiant men chosen from Isra'el's finest; ​
8
all of them wield the sword and are expert fighters; each one has his sword ready at his side to combat the terrors of night.
9
King Shlomo made himself a royal litter of wood from the L'vanon. ​
10
He made its columns of silver, its roof of gold, its seat of purple cloth; its inside was lovingly inlaid by the daughters of Yerushalayim. ​

Behold the King in His Glory

11
Daughters of Tziyon, come out, and gaze upon King Shlomo, wearing the crown with which his mother crowned him on his wedding day, his day of joy! ​

Study Notes for Song of Solomon 3

Verse 1

The bride's restless search symbolizes the longing and persistent desire for intimacy with her beloved. The night setting suggests a time of vulnerability and introspection.

Verse 2

Her active pursuit within the city indicates a willingness to overcome obstacles and societal constraints in her quest for love. This demonstrates initiative and determination.

Verse 3

The watchmen, representing societal authorities or perhaps even religious figures, are questioned about the beloved. This highlights the bride's single-minded focus and her willingness to seek help, even from those in positions of authority.

Verse 4

The sudden finding of the beloved after a brief separation emphasizes the nearness of love and the joy of reunion. Her holding him and taking him to her mother's house suggests a desire for deep connection and integration into her family life.

Verse 5

This verse repeats a familiar refrain, emphasizing the delicate nature of love and the need for patience and respect in its unfolding. The images of roes and hinds evoke a sense of wildness and freedom that should not be prematurely disrupted.

Verse 6

This verse marks a shift in tone and imagery, introducing a grand procession. The description suggests royalty, power, and opulence, likely depicting Solomon's arrival.

Verse 7

The sixty valiant men surrounding Solomon's bed highlight his power and the protection he receives. This imagery underscores the security and status associated with him.

Verse 9

The chariot made of Lebanese wood symbolizes luxury and sophistication. The materials used represent the finest resources available to King Solomon.

Verse 10

The description of the chariot as 'paved with love' for the daughters of Jerusalem suggests that Solomon's magnificence is intended to impress and win favor. This could be interpreted as both romantic and political display.

Verse 11

This verse calls the daughters of Zion to witness Solomon's coronation or wedding, emphasizing the joy and celebration surrounding the event. The reference to his mother crowning him suggests a significant role for women in royal ceremonies.

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