Song of Solomon 1:13

Translation
King James Version
A bundle of myrrh is my wellbeloved unto me; he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts.
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KJV (with Strong's)
A bundle H6872 of myrrh H4753 is my wellbeloved H1730 unto me; he shall lie H3885 all night betwixt my breasts H7699.
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Complete Jewish Bible
to me the man I love is a sachet of myrrh lodged between my breasts;
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Berean Standard Bible
My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh resting between my breasts.
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American Standard Version
My beloved is unto me as a bundle of myrrh, That lieth betwixt my breasts.
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World English Bible Messianic
My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh, that lies between my breasts.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
My welbeloued is as a cluster of camphire vnto me in the vines of Engedi.
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Young's Literal Translation
A bundle of myrrh is my beloved to me, Between my breasts it lodgeth.
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See also
John 19:39Psalms 45:8Ephesians 3:17Song of Solomon 4:14Song of Solomon 5:5Song of Solomon 5:1Song of Solomon 2:7
In the KJVVerse 17,551 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Song of Solomon 1:13 is a tender declaration from the Shulamite woman, expressing her profound affection and cherished regard for her beloved. She likens him to a precious "bundle of myrrh," a highly valued and fragrant substance, signifying his concentrated worth and delightful presence in her life. Her fervent desire for him to "lie all night betwixt my breasts" articulates a deep yearning for intimate, secure, and uninterrupted communion, underscoring themes of exclusive devotion, abiding presence, and the supreme value she places upon her lover within the Song's celebration of mutual delight.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Song of Solomon 1:13 is spoken by the Shulamite woman, forming a vital part of the opening dialogue of passionate love and longing that characterizes the book. It follows her initial expressions of deep desire for her beloved's kisses and presence in Song of Solomon 1:2, and her warm admiration for his beauty and the joy he brings, as seen in verses like Song of Solomon 1:4. This verse deepens her personal and intimate declaration of affection, moving beyond general praise to a specific, sensory comparison and a profound desire for continuous closeness. It is embedded within a series of reciprocal praises and expressions of mutual longing that establish the tone of intense, exclusive, and beautiful marital love celebrated throughout the entire poetic narrative of the Song of Solomon.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: Myrrh was an exceptionally valuable and highly prized aromatic resin in the ancient Near East, extracted from the thorny Commiphora myrrha tree. Its significance extended far beyond mere fragrance, encompassing diverse uses in perfumes, incense for sacred worship (e.g., Exodus 30:23), medicinal remedies, and notably, in anointing oils and embalming preparations (as seen in Esther 2:12 and John 19:39). Its high cost and multifaceted applications made it a potent symbol of preciousness, luxury, and sometimes, solemnity or sacrifice. The imagery of keeping something "betwixt my breasts" speaks to a cultural understanding of a place of utmost intimacy, security, and personal value, often associated with a cherished possession, a beloved child, or a lover held close to the heart. The phrase "all night" underscores a desire for continuous, uninterrupted closeness and abiding presence, reflecting the ideal of unwavering commitment and secure union within a devoted relationship in ancient Israelite culture.
  • Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the Song of Solomon. Firstly, it highlights the Preciousness and Supreme Value of the beloved, elevating him to the status of a highly esteemed and desirable commodity like myrrh. This theme recurs as the lovers consistently praise each other's unique qualities and beauty, as seen in the beloved's declaration in Song of Solomon 4:7. Secondly, it emphasizes Intimacy and Profound Closeness, portraying a yearning for deep physical and emotional proximity. The desire for the beloved to "lie all night betwixt my breasts" is a vivid expression of tender affection and a longing for secure, comforting presence, mirroring the mutual longing expressed throughout the book, such as in Song of Solomon 2:16. Lastly, the phrase "all night" underscores the theme of Enduring Affection and Unwavering Commitment, suggesting a desire for a continuous, abiding relationship rather than fleeting moments, a sentiment powerfully echoed in the enduring and unquenchable nature of love described in Song of Solomon 8:6-7.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • bundle (Hebrew, tsᵉrôwr', H6872): From צָרַר; a parcel (as packed up); also a kernel or particle (as if a package); bag, [idiom] bendeth, bundle, least grain, small stone. In this context, it signifies a concentrated, compact, and highly valued package, emphasizing the beloved's potent and concentrated preciousness, much like a small, valuable pouch of myrrh.
  • myrrh (Hebrew, môr', H4753): From מָרַר; myrrh (as distilling in drops, and also as bitter); myrrh. This refers to an aromatic gum or resin, highly valued for its fragrance, medicinal properties, and use in sacred anointing and embalming. Its inclusion here highlights the beloved's preciousness, delightful fragrance, and perhaps a subtle hint of the cost or sacrifice associated with true love.
  • wellbeloved (Hebrew, dôwd', H1730): Or (shortened) דֹּד; from an unused root meaning properly, to boil, i.e.; (figuratively) to love; by implication, a love-token, lover, friend; specifically an uncle; (well-) beloved, father's brother, love, uncle. In this context, it is a tender term of endearment, emphasizing the deep, personal affection and cherished status of the man in the Shulamite's eyes. It signifies a profound bond of love and devotion.
  • lie all night (Hebrew, lûwn', H3885): Or לִין; a primitive root; to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain); abide (all night), continue, dwell, endure, grudge, be left, lie all night, (cause to) lodge (all night, in, -ing, this night), (make to) murmur, remain, tarry (all night, that night). In this context, it conveys the desire for the beloved to remain continuously and securely, not just for a moment but for an extended, abiding period, emphasizing constant presence and intimacy.
  • breasts (Hebrew, shad', H7699): Or שֹׁד; probably from שׁוּד (in its original sense) contracted; the breast of a woman or animal (as bulging); breast, pap, teat. Here, it refers to the woman's breasts, symbolizing a place of utmost intimacy, comfort, and security, where one would hold something or someone most cherished and dear.

Verse Breakdown

  • "A bundle of myrrh [is] my wellbeloved unto me": The Shulamite woman declares the supreme value and delightful presence of her beloved by comparing him to a "bundle of myrrh." This vivid simile emphasizes his preciousness, the pleasant and captivating fragrance he brings to her life, and his concentrated, potent desirability. Just as a bundle of myrrh would be a highly prized and intimately kept possession, so too is her beloved to her, a source of profound delight and worth.
  • "he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts": This clause expresses a profound desire for intimacy, security, and constant presence. "Betwixt my breasts" signifies a place of utmost closeness, tenderness, and vulnerability, akin to a mother holding a cherished child or a lover embracing their dearest. It implies a deep sense of comfort and belonging. The phrase "all night" underscores the longing for an enduring, unbroken communion, not merely a fleeting encounter, but a continuous, comforting, and secure abiding presence that transcends the temporal limits of a single day.

Literary Devices

Song of Solomon 1:13 is rich with evocative Imagery and powerful Simile. The primary Simile compares the beloved to "a bundle of myrrh," immediately engaging the senses of smell and touch, evoking experiences of preciousness, delightful fragrance, and concentrated value. This comparison is not merely descriptive but also deeply symbolic, as myrrh carried connotations of luxury, sacredness, and even a hint of suffering or solemnity (due to its use in embalming). The phrase "he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts" employs vivid Imagery of physical intimacy and deep emotional security. The "breasts" symbolize a place of nurturing, comfort, and profound personal closeness and vulnerability. The phrase "all night" functions as Hyperbole, emphasizing the Shulamite's intense desire for continuous, unwavering presence and intimacy, transcending mere temporal duration to speak of an abiding, cherished bond. The entire verse, through its specific comparisons and expressions, functions as a Metaphor for the depth, exclusivity, and enduring nature of the lovers' mutual devotion.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse, while celebrating the beauty and intensity of human love, also offers profound theological insights when understood allegorically as the love between God and His people, or Christ and the Church. The "bundle of myrrh" speaks to the preciousness and unique value of the beloved, reflecting the inestimable worth of God's love and, supremely, the person of Jesus Christ. Just as the Shulamite cherishes her beloved above all else, so too are believers called to cherish Christ, finding in Him ultimate delight, security, and the fragrance of His righteousness. The desire for Him to "lie all night betwixt my breasts" speaks powerfully to the yearning for an intimate, abiding, and secure relationship with the Divine, where believers find their rest and comfort in God's constant, unwavering presence. This echoes the biblical theme of God's covenant faithfulness and His desire for an unbroken communion with His people, a relationship characterized by mutual affection and secure belonging.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Song of Solomon 1:13 offers a beautiful and profound lens through which to view both human relationships and our spiritual walk. In the context of marriage, it challenges us to cultivate a love that values our partner as supremely precious, a source of delight and comfort. It encourages us to seek deep, abiding intimacy, not just fleeting moments, but a continuous presence of cherishing and security. This verse reminds us that true love desires unwavering closeness and finds its rest in the beloved's presence, fostering a bond of trust and vulnerability that allows for complete openness. Spiritually, it invites us to examine the depth of our affection for Jesus Christ. Is He truly our "wellbeloved," more precious than any earthly treasure? Do we yearn for His constant presence, finding our ultimate comfort and security in His embrace? This verse calls us to a deeper, more intimate communion with Christ, abiding in His love and allowing Him to be the source of our deepest rest and most profound joy, moving beyond superficial encounters to a continuous, cherished relationship.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the Shulamite's declaration of her beloved as a "bundle of myrrh" challenge my own perception of what is truly precious and valuable in my life?
  • What does the desire for the beloved to "lie all night betwixt my breasts" teach me about the nature of true intimacy and security in relationships, both human and divine?
  • In what ways can I cultivate a more constant and abiding sense of Christ's presence in my daily life, moving beyond fleeting moments of spiritual connection to a deeper, continuous communion?
  • How does this verse inspire me to express my love and devotion more deeply and consistently to those I cherish, and supremely, to Christ?

FAQ

What is the significance of "myrrh" in this verse?

Answer: Myrrh (Hebrew: môr) was a highly valued, fragrant, and costly resin in the ancient world, used for perfumes, incense, medicine, and embalming. In Song of Solomon 1:13, its significance is multifaceted. Primarily, it symbolizes the beloved's preciousness and desirability to the Shulamite, highlighting his delightful fragrance and concentrated value. It also carries connotations of luxury and sacredness, as myrrh was used in temple rituals and anointing oils (as seen in Exodus 30:23). While myrrh was also associated with embalming (as seen in John 19:39), in this context within the Song of Solomon, the emphasis is overwhelmingly on its pleasant aroma and high value, signifying the beloved's cherished and delightful presence.

Is Song of Solomon 1:13 meant to be interpreted literally or allegorically?

Answer: Song of Solomon 1:13, like the entire book, is primarily a celebration of the beauty and intimacy of human marital love, intended to be understood literally as the passionate expressions between a man and a woman. This literal interpretation provides a robust foundation for healthy human sexuality and marriage within God's design. However, for centuries, both Jewish and Christian traditions have also interpreted the Song allegorically. In Jewish tradition, it represents the covenant love between God and Israel. In Christian tradition, it symbolizes the profound, intimate relationship between Christ and His Church (or the individual believer). While the literal meaning is foundational, the allegorical interpretation enriches our understanding of the spiritual longing for and communion with God, particularly the preciousness of Christ and the believer's desire for His abiding presence, as referenced in Ephesians 5:32.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Song of Solomon 1:13 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the true "wellbeloved," not only of the Church but eternally the beloved Son of God, in whom the Father is well pleased (Matthew 3:17). As the "bundle of myrrh," Christ embodies supreme preciousness and a divine fragrance that draws us to Him. Myrrh, associated with both anointing and suffering, beautifully foreshadows Christ's dual role: He is the Anointed One, set apart for God's purposes, and His life culminated in the ultimate sacrifice on the cross, a fragrant offering to God (Ephesians 5:2). The Shulamite's yearning for her beloved to "lie all night betwixt my breasts" powerfully illustrates the believer's desire for an intimate, abiding, and secure relationship with Christ. He is our constant companion, the one in whom we find our rest, security, and comfort, fulfilling His promise to be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). In Christ, we experience the deepest communion, finding our spiritual home and eternal delight in His unwavering love and presence (John 15:9). He is the one who truly satisfies the deepest longings of the human heart, offering an unshakeable bond that endures through all circumstances (Romans 8:38-39).

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Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.
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Gregory of NyssaAD 395
HOMILIES ON THE SONG OF SONGS 3
The location of the heart is said by experts to lie between the two breasts. Here is where the bride says that she has the sachet in which her treasure is kept. Also, the heart is said to be a source of warmth from which the body’s heat is distributed through the arteries. The body’s members are thereby heated, animated and nourished by the heart’s fire. Therefore the bride has received the good odor of Christ in the governing part of the soul and has made her own heart a kind of sachet for such incense. And so she makes all her actions, like parts of the body, seethe with the breath from her heart so that no iniquity can cool her love for God in any member of her body.
Nilus of SinaiAD 451
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 29
She calls him “nard” because of his working of miracles and service of kindness extended to all, and “bag of myrrh” because of his suffering, death and the infamy represented by his cross, when he concentrated the inactive power of his divinity into his body as if in a little bag. For it is not the same to believe in one who works miracles and is glorified as to trust in one who is crucified, buried and taken for dead. The common response of humanity is to recognize his divinity [only] when they enjoy his benefits and are convinced by numerous signs, for the action of the miracle does not so much relieve the judgment as its plausibility. On the contrary, to see him suffer, exposed to banter and enduring the injuries of malefactors—without doubt or perplexity but rather keeping in every circumstance the same judgment: this is the deed of a very small number or perhaps of only one perfect soul.…That he dwells between the breasts of the bride is a sign that he has humbled himself from infancy and has assumed the human sufferings of hunger, thirst, slumber and physical fatigue.
Nilus of SinaiAD 451
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 31
The cluster of grapes in bloom, suspended from the branch, is not desired by everyone, because it fails to possess an immediate pleasure. Rare indeed are those who rejoice at postponing pleasures, for people attach themselves naturally to the preference of present enjoyment, just as those pleasures whose utility is not immediate but resides in future hope are reckoned not to have the same usefulness. Now it pertains to the science of agriculture to recognize future utility in the present condition of fruit that has not yet reached maturity, and in the unripe grape to discern whether there is any future and assured maturity.In the same way also, the Lord hanging upon the cross, as if to say in a public examination before the eyes of all, evoked a great despair in those who saw him. For who therefore would not be perplexed, understandably, seeing the liberator of the human race undergoing the ultimate punishment, seeing the one who accomplished so many miracles and delivered Lazarus from the bonds of death, nailed to the cross and his life passing over into death? Thus the condemnation inflicted at that time upon the good name which everyone attributed to him induced doubt among those who saw it when compared with the opinion regarding him that everyone entertained then. This was because every eye, filled in an untimely way with the evidence of the suffering by which he was tested and forgetting the miracles, took sides with the suffering it could see. For not only the Jews but also the disciples themselves fell into doubt such that even after learning that “he had been raised from the dead,” they did not believe in his resurrection.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 1
“It will lodge between my breasts,” that is, in the governing part of my soul, which is located in the heart lying between the breasts. This indicates the fulfillment of the prophecy spoken by God, “I shall dwell and walk about among them, and I shall be their God and they shall be my people, says the Lord almighty.” The bridegroom in person also makes the promise, “We shall come, my Father and I, and shall make our abode with him.”
Caesarius of ArlesAD 542
SERMON 106:4
For this reason it ought to be clear to your minds that the fig tree was an image of the law, just as it is certain that the cluster of grapes prefigured the Savior, as the church declares in the Canticle of Canticles: “My brother is for me a cluster of henna.” Christ, indeed, cannot exist without the law or the law without Christ, for we have said that the law is evidence of the gospel, and the gospel is the fulfillment of the law.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
A bundle of myrrh is my beloved to me, etc. And this, according to the letter, we read was fulfilled concerning our Savior when, after His passion was accomplished and His body taken down from the cross, Nicodemus came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds' weight. And they took His body and wrapped it in linen cloths with spices. Therefore, the beloved of the Church was made a bundle of myrrh when the Lord, anointed with myrrh and aloe, was wrapped in linen cloths: indeed, this bundle abides between the breasts of the bride when the Church unceasingly meditates in her innermost heart on the death of her Redeemer. For who does not know that the place between the breasts is the heart? And the bundle of myrrh shall abide between the breasts of the bride when every soul consecrated to God strives, with intent mind, as much as it can, to imitate the death of Him by whom it knows itself redeemed, mindful of that apostolic saying, "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires" (Galatians V). Truly, because the glory of the resurrection soon followed the death of our Mediator and Savior, rightly the bride adds:
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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