Song Of Solomon 1:11

KJV

We will make thee borders of gold with studs of silver.

KJV (with Strong's)

We will make {H6213} thee borders {H8447} of gold {H2091} with studs {H5351} of silver {H3701}.

Complete Jewish Bible

we will make you ornaments of gold, studded with silver.

Berean Standard Bible

We will make you ornaments of gold, studded with beads of silver.

American Standard Version

We will make thee plaits of gold With studs of silver.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 1:11 presents a lavish promise of adornment from the "daughters of Jerusalem" to the Shulamite woman, declaring their intention to fashion for her exquisite "borders of gold with studs of silver." This verse encapsulates themes of affirmation, honor, and the desire to beautify the beloved, highlighting a profound appreciation that transcends perceived imperfections and elevates her status within the royal court. It speaks to the transformative power of love that seeks to bestow value and splendor upon its object.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of an intimate dialogue within the opening chapter of the Song of Solomon, a poetic drama celebrating love and desire. Immediately preceding this verse, the Shulamite has expressed a humble self-perception, noting her sun-darkened skin from working in the vineyards and feeling she is [black, but comely](/song_of_solomon/1-5 "Song of Solomon 1:5 - The Shulamite's Self-Perception"). She also [longs for her beloved's presence and guidance](/song_of_solomon/1-7 "Song of Solomon 1:7 - The Shulamite's Longing"). In response, the [daughters of Jerusalem](/song_of_solomon/1-5 "Song of Solomon 1:5 - The Daughters of Jerusalem") (or court ladies) offer words of affirmation, recognizing her inherent beauty and promising her lavish adornments. This promise serves as a counterpoint to her insecurity, demonstrating that her beauty is acknowledged and celebrated despite her rustic background. The verse sets the stage for the escalating expressions of mutual admiration and desire that characterize the rest of the book.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, adornment, particularly with precious metals like gold and silver, was a significant indicator of wealth, status, and beauty. Gold was highly prized for its rarity and luster, often associated with royalty and divinity, while silver was also valuable, used for coinage, jewelry, and decorative items. The "borders" (tôwr) likely refer to elaborate braids, rows of jewels, or a decorative headpiece, possibly worn as part of a bridal or royal ensemble. The "studs" (nᵉquddâh) would be small, intricate ornaments, perhaps beads or settings, embedded within these borders, adding to their opulence. Such gifts were not merely decorative but conveyed honor, acceptance, and a desire to elevate the recipient's perceived worth within the social hierarchy. This cultural understanding underscores the profound significance of the promise made to the Shulamite.
* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 1:11 contributes significantly to several key themes pervasive throughout the book. Primarily, it emphasizes the theme of **affirmation and esteem**, showcasing how genuine love elevates and cherishes the beloved, seeing beyond superficialities. The promise of lavish gifts underscores the **generosity and desire to adorn** the object of affection, symbolizing a deep appreciation and a wish to enhance natural beauty. This aligns with the broader theme of **mutual admiration and delight** between the lovers, where each finds the other exquisitely beautiful and worthy of the highest honor, as seen when the beloved praises the Shulamite's eyes like doves in [Song of Solomon 1:15](/song_of_solomon/1-15 "Song of Solomon 1:15 - The Beloved's Praise"). Furthermore, it hints at the **transformation and elevation** that love brings, moving the Shulamite from a humble vineyard worker to one adorned with royal splendor, a motif echoed in the imagery of the king bringing her into his chambers in [Song of Solomon 1:4](/song_of_solomon/1-4 "Song of Solomon 1:4 - The King's Chambers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **borders (Hebrew, _tôwr'_):** From an unused root meaning "to turn," this word signifies a succession, a string, or an order. In this context, it likely refers to rows of decorative elements, possibly braids, strings of pearls, or a structured headpiece or necklace adorned with precious materials. It implies an ordered, intricate design rather than a simple band.
* **gold (Hebrew, _zâhâb'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to shimmer," _zâhâb_ refers to the precious metal gold. Figuratively, it can describe something gold-colored, like oil or a clear sky. Here, it denotes the primary, most valuable material for the adornment, symbolizing purity, royalty, and immense worth.
* **studs (Hebrew, _nᵉquddâh'_):** This feminine noun means a "boss" or "stud." It refers to small, raised ornaments, points, or settings, typically embedded into a surface. In this verse, it suggests intricate, decorative elements of silver set within or upon the gold borders, adding detail and sparkle to the overall design.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"We will make thee borders of gold":** This clause is spoken by the "daughters of Jerusalem" (or court ladies) to the Shulamite. The plural "We" indicates a collective promise and effort. The verb "make" (H6213, _ʻâsâh_) implies crafting or fashioning with care and intention. The "borders of gold" signify a primary, valuable adornment, likely a headpiece or necklace, made from the most precious metal, symbolizing honor, beauty, and elevated status. This is a direct response to the Shulamite's earlier expressions of humility, offering her a tangible sign of acceptance and esteem.
* **"with studs of silver.":** This phrase elaborates on the nature of the adornment. The gold borders will be further embellished with "studs of silver." Silver, while not as valuable as gold, was still a precious metal, often used for intricate details and contrasting beauty. The "studs" suggest small, decorative points or settings, indicating a meticulous and elaborate design. The combination of gold and silver speaks to the richness and artistry of the promised gift, emphasizing the lavishness and the high regard in which the Shulamite is held by those offering the gift.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Imagery** and **Symbolism**. The vivid imagery of "borders of gold with studs of silver" creates a clear mental picture of exquisite beauty, luxury, and meticulous craftsmanship. This imagery is not merely descriptive but also highly symbolic. **Gold** symbolizes purity, royalty, divine favor, and supreme value, while **silver** often represents redemption, purification, and secondary but still significant worth. The combination of these precious metals symbolizes the highest honor and the desire to bestow the most beautiful and valuable gifts upon the beloved. The act of "making" these adornments also carries symbolic weight, representing intentionality, care, and the active desire to enhance and celebrate the beloved's beauty and worth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 1:11, while rooted in human romance, offers profound theological insights when viewed through an allegorical or typological lens, often understood as a portrayal of God's love for His people or Christ's love for the Church. The promise of lavish adornment speaks to God's desire to beautify, honor, and elevate His beloved. Just as the Shulamite, in her humble state, is deemed worthy of the finest gifts, so too does God lavish His grace and righteousness upon believers, transforming them and clothing them in spiritual splendor. This divine adornment is not based on human merit but on God's unconditional love and redemptive work, making His people precious and glorious in His sight. It underscores the concept of divine favor and the ultimate beautification of the redeemed.

* [Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Robes of Righteousness")
* [Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Love for the Church")
* [Revelation 21:2](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem as a Bride")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 1:11 serves as a powerful reminder of how love, whether human or divine, seeks to affirm, cherish, and adorn the beloved. It challenges us to look beyond superficialities and perceived flaws, recognizing the inherent worth and beauty in others, just as the court ladies saw beyond the Shulamite's sun-darkened skin. In our relationships, this verse encourages us to be intentional in our affirmations, to speak words that build up and honor, and to express our appreciation through acts of generosity and thoughtful care. It calls us to actively "make" beauty and value for those we love, not just admire it. Spiritually, it invites us to contemplate the incredible grace of God, who, despite our imperfections, clothes us in His righteousness and makes us beautiful in His eyes, prompting a response of gratitude and worship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I genuinely affirm the worth and beauty of those around me, especially those who might feel overlooked or insecure?**
* **In what ways can I "make" or contribute to the beauty and value of others, both spiritually and practically?**
* **How does understanding God's desire to adorn and beautify His people impact my self-perception and my relationship with Him?**
* **What "borders of gold with studs of silver" (spiritual graces, gifts, or character traits) has God already bestowed upon me, and how can I live in appreciation of them?**

### FAQ
**Who is speaking in Song of Solomon 1:11?**

Answer: The speakers in Song of Solomon 1:11 are generally understood to be the [daughters of Jerusalem](/song_of_solomon/1-5 "Song of Solomon 1:5 - The Daughters of Jerusalem"), also referred to as the "king's companions" or court ladies. They are addressing the Shulamite woman, offering her words of affirmation and a promise of lavish adornment, likely in response to her expressions of insecurity about her appearance.

**What is the significance of "borders of gold with studs of silver"?**

Answer: The "borders of gold with studs of silver" symbolize immense value, beauty, and honor. In ancient cultures, gold and silver were precious metals used for royal and ceremonial adornments, indicating wealth, status, and purity. This promise signifies that the Shulamite, despite her humble background, is seen as worthy of the finest gifts and is being elevated and accepted into a place of honor and esteem, reflecting the deep appreciation and desire to beautify her by those speaking. It represents a transformation from perceived lowliness to celebrated splendor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 1:11 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the profound love of [Christ for His Church, His beloved Bride](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church"). Just as the Shulamite is promised adornments of gold and silver, signifying beauty and honor, so too does Christ lavish His Church with spiritual riches and righteousness, making her [glorious in His sight](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Glorious Church"). He does not merely see us in our sin and brokenness but actively works to [cleanse, sanctify, and beautify us](/titus/2-14 "Titus 2:14 - Christ's Purification of His People"), presenting us to Himself "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). This divine adornment is not of our own making but is a gift of His grace, [purchased by His sacrifice on the cross](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood"). We are [clothed in His righteousness](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Robes of Righteousness"), [adorned with the Holy Spirit's gifts](/1_corinthians/12-7-11 "1 Corinthians 12:7-11 - Gifts of the Spirit"), and made a [dwelling place for God](/ephesians/2-22 "Ephesians 2:22 - A Dwelling Place for God"). The promise of gold and silver reflects the immeasurable value Christ places on His people, demonstrating His commitment to perfect and glorify His Bride, ultimately preparing her for the [eternal wedding feast of the Lamb](/revelation/19-7-9 "Revelation 19:7-9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 149:4

For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.

Philippians 3:21

Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Genesis 1:26

¶ And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

Ephesians 5:25

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

Ephesians 5:27

That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

Song Of Solomon 8:9

If she [be] a wall, we will build upon her a palace of silver: and if she [be] a door, we will inclose her with boards of cedar.