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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
By night on my bed, I sought him whom my soul loves. I sought him, but I didn’t find him. ​
2
I will get up now, and go about the city; in the streets and in the squares I will seek him whom my soul loves. I sought him, but I didn’t find him. ​
3
The watchmen who go about the city found me; “Have you seen him whom my soul loves?” ​
4
I had scarcely passed from them, when I found him whom my soul loves. I held him, and would not let him go, until I had brought him into my mother’s house, into the room of her who conceived me. ​

A Plea for Undisturbed Love

5
I adjure you, daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, or by the hinds of the field, that you not stir up, nor awaken love, until it so desires. ​

The Magnificent Arrival of Solomon

6
Who is this who comes up from the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all spices of the merchant? ​
7
Behold, it is Solomon’s carriage! Sixty mighty men are around it, of the mighty men of Israel. ​
8
They all handle the sword, and are expert in war. Every man has his sword on his thigh, because of fear in the night.
9
King Solomon made himself a carriage of the wood of Lebanon. ​
10
He made its pillars of silver, its bottom of gold, its seat of purple, its midst being paved with love, from the daughters of Jerusalem. ​

Behold the King in His Glory

11
Go out, you daughters of Zion, and see king Solomon, with the crown with which his mother has crowned him, in the day of his weddings, in the day of the gladness of his heart. ​

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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