Song Of Solomon 1:15

KJV

Behold, thou [art] fair, my love; behold, thou [art] fair; thou [hast] doves' eyes.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold, thou art fair {H3303}, my love {H7474}; behold, thou art fair {H3303}; thou hast doves {H3123}' eyes {H5869}.

Complete Jewish Bible

[He] Look at you, my love! How beautiful you are! Your eyes are doves

Berean Standard Bible

How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves.

American Standard Version

Behold, thou art fair, my love; Behold thou art fair; Thine eyes are as doves.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 1:15 presents a tender and emphatic declaration of admiration from the lover to his beloved, traditionally understood as King Solomon praising the Shulamite woman. With a repeated affirmation of her beauty, "Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair," the verse culminates in a specific and deeply symbolic compliment: "thou hast doves' eyes." This praise transcends mere physical appearance, hinting at the inner qualities of purity, gentleness, and faithfulness reflected in her gaze, celebrating both her outward loveliness and her intrinsic character.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Song of Solomon 1:15 is situated within the opening dialogue of the book, where the beloved, the Shulamite, expresses her longing for her lover, and he, in turn, responds with effusive praise for her beauty. This verse immediately follows the lover's initial compliments in [Song of Solomon 1:9-11](/song_of_solomon/1-9 "Song of Solomon 1:9-11 - The King's Praise of His Beloved"), where he compares her to a mare among Pharaoh's chariots and promises her adornments of gold and silver. The repetition of "Behold, thou art fair" serves as an intensified reaffirmation of his admiration, building upon the previous expressions of delight and setting the stage for the intimate and reciprocal exchange of affection that characterizes the entire book of [Song of Solomon](/song_of_solomon "Song of Solomon - A Celebration of Love"). It is a moment of pure, unadulterated adoration within a narrative that celebrates the beauty and joy of exclusive romantic love.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Song of Solomon, set in ancient Israel, reflects the poetic conventions and cultural nuances of love and courtship in the ancient Near East. Royal imagery, such as the comparison to Pharaoh's chariots in earlier verses, suggests a kingly setting, often attributed to Solomon. In this cultural milieu, eyes were frequently regarded as the window to the soul, and their beauty was highly prized. Doves, in particular, held significant symbolic meaning. They were common birds in the region, known for their gentle nature, soft cooing, and often, their monogamous pairing. Consequently, doves were widely associated with purity, innocence, gentleness, meekness, and faithfulness in both secular and sacred literature. Understanding this cultural backdrop enriches the meaning of the lover's compliment, indicating that his praise of her "doves' eyes" was not merely a physical observation but a profound acknowledgment of her inner virtues.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the [Song of Solomon](/song_of_solomon "Song of Solomon - A Celebration of Love"). Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Mutual Admiration and Affirmation**, showcasing the importance of vocalizing appreciation and delight in one's beloved, which is a cornerstone of healthy relationships throughout the book. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Beauty Beyond the Superficial**, as the specific mention of "doves' eyes" moves beyond general physical attractiveness to imply deeper, intrinsic qualities like purity, gentleness, and faithfulness. This suggests that true beauty encompasses both outward appearance and inner character. Finally, the verse exemplifies the theme of **Intimacy and Delight in Relationship**, portraying a bond where both partners find profound joy and satisfaction in each other's presence and attributes, a model of the profound connection celebrated throughout [Song of Solomon 1](/song_of_solomon/1 "Song of Solomon 1 - The Lovers' Dialogue") and the entire book.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fair (Hebrew, _yâpheh'_ H3303):** This word signifies beauty, loveliness, and attractiveness, encompassing both physical appeal and a sense of pleasantness. Its repetition in the verse, "Behold, thou art fair... behold, thou art fair," serves to emphasize the intensity and sincerity of the lover's admiration, underscoring that her beauty is not just acknowledged but deeply appreciated and captivating.
* **love (Hebrew, _raʻyâh'_ H7474):** Derived from a root meaning "to associate," this term refers to a female companion or associate, often translated as "my friend" or "my love." It highlights the intimate, relational aspect of the bond between the two individuals, portraying them not just as lovers but as close companions who share a deep, affectionate partnership.
* **doves' (Hebrew, _yôwnâh'_ H3123):** This word specifically refers to a dove or pigeon. In ancient Near Eastern symbolism, doves were widely associated with purity, innocence, gentleness, meekness, and faithfulness. The comparison of the beloved's eyes to those of a dove therefore imbues her gaze with these virtues, suggesting a captivating look that reflects a pure and gentle spirit, as well as loyalty and devotion.
* **eyes (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_ H5869):** While literally referring to the organ of sight, "eyes" in biblical and ancient Near Eastern contexts often carry deeper symbolic weight as the "windows to the soul." They are perceived as revealing one's character, emotions, and inner disposition. Thus, "doves' eyes" implies that the beloved's inner qualities of purity and gentleness are visibly manifest through her gaze, making her beauty not merely superficial but reflective of her virtuous character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair":** This opening clause is a passionate and emphatic declaration of the lover's profound admiration for his beloved. The repetition of "Behold, thou art fair" serves as a powerful rhetorical device, intensifying the compliment and conveying a sense of awe and deep appreciation. The inclusion of "my love" (ra'yah) underscores the intimate and personal nature of this declaration, signifying a cherished and close relationship. It's a direct, heartfelt affirmation of her beauty, not just as an observation, but as a deeply felt emotion.
* **"thou hast doves' eyes":** This concluding phrase provides a specific and highly symbolic compliment that elevates the praise beyond general beauty. By comparing her eyes to those of doves, the lover attributes qualities such as purity, gentleness, innocence, and faithfulness to her gaze. This suggests that her beauty is not merely physical but is deeply rooted in her character, which is reflected through her eyes, making her captivating in a way that transcends superficial attractiveness. It implies a tender, pure, and perhaps even vulnerable look that is deeply appealing to the lover.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 1:15 is rich with literary artistry, enhancing its emotional and thematic depth. The most prominent device is **Repetition**, specifically the phrase "Behold, thou art fair," which is stated twice. This repetition serves to emphasize the intensity and sincerity of the lover's admiration, creating a rhythmic and almost chant-like quality that underscores his profound delight in her beauty. Another key device is **Simile**, though often interpreted as a **Metaphor** in its poetic impact, where the beloved's "eyes" are directly compared to "doves'." This comparison is not merely descriptive but **Symbolic**, as doves in ancient Near Eastern culture were potent symbols of purity, innocence, gentleness, and faithfulness. By attributing "doves' eyes" to his beloved, the lover suggests that these virtues are not only present within her but are visibly manifest through her gaze, making her beauty deeply spiritual and character-driven. The verse also employs a form of **Hyperbole**, common in ancient love poetry, where the praise is elevated to an almost idealized level to convey the depth of affection and admiration felt by the speaker.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 1:15, while a celebration of human romantic love, resonates with profound theological and thematic connections that extend beyond its immediate context. The lover's unreserved declaration of beauty and the specific praise of "doves' eyes" speak to the value of affirmation and the recognition of inner beauty. This mirrors God's perspective on His people, often seeing beyond outward appearances to the heart. The purity and gentleness symbolized by the doves' eyes can be seen as spiritual virtues that God cultivates in believers. Furthermore, the mutual delight expressed in the Song foreshadows the intimate relationship between God and His covenant people, and ultimately, between Christ and His Church, where love, purity, and faithfulness are central. Just as the lover finds his beloved "fair," Christ sees His Church as beautiful, not because of her inherent perfection, but because of His redemptive work within her.

* [1 Peter 3:3-4](/1_peter/3-3 "1 Peter 3:3-4 - The Beauty of a Gentle and Quiet Spirit")
* [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")
* [Proverbs 31:30](/proverbs/31-30 "Proverbs 31:30 - Charm is Deceitful, Beauty is Fleeting")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 1:15 offers timeless wisdom for cultivating and cherishing relationships, both human and divine. Firstly, it powerfully reminds us of the transformative power of **verbal affirmation**. To genuinely see and articulate the beauty and worth of another person, especially a beloved, strengthens bonds, builds confidence, and fosters a profound sense of being seen and valued. This goes beyond superficial compliments to acknowledge intrinsic qualities. Secondly, the focus on "doves' eyes" encourages us to look beyond fleeting physical attractiveness and to appreciate the **inner qualities** that truly enrich a person and a relationship—such as purity, gentleness, faithfulness, and a tender spirit. This challenges us to cultivate these virtues within ourselves, recognizing that true beauty emanates from a Christ-like character. Finally, in a broader spiritual sense, this verse invites us to reflect on how God sees us. Despite our imperfections, He looks upon us with love and delight, seeing the potential for purity and holiness that He cultivates within us through His grace. We are called to reflect this divine gaze in how we perceive and interact with others, seeing them through the lens of God's love and valuing their inherent dignity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does verbal affirmation strengthen relationships, and what specific qualities can you affirm in those you love?**
* **What "inner qualities" do you most admire in others, and how can you cultivate them in yourself to reflect a "doves' eye" purity and gentleness?**
* **In what ways can we "see" others through the eyes of Christ, appreciating their inherent worth and spiritual beauty beyond outward appearances?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "doves' eyes" in ancient Near Eastern culture and poetry?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern culture and poetry, the comparison of eyes to those of doves was a common and highly significant motif used to convey profound beauty and specific character traits. Doves were widely known for their gentle, soft, and often innocent gaze. Symbolically, they represented purity, innocence, meekness, and faithfulness. In a poetic context like the [Song of Solomon](/song_of_solomon "Song of Solomon - A Celebration of Love"), saying someone has "doves' eyes" was not merely a physical observation but an imputation of these virtues to the person's character, suggesting that their inner purity and gentle spirit were visibly reflected through their eyes. It implied a captivating and tender look that was deeply appealing, signifying a person of unblemished character and loyal devotion.

**Is the Song of Solomon meant to be interpreted literally or allegorically?**

Answer: The [Song of Solomon](/song_of_solomon "Song of Solomon - A Celebration of Love") has traditionally been interpreted in both literal and allegorical ways, and many scholars believe it holds validity in both interpretations. Literally, it is a beautiful celebration of human romantic love, marriage, and sexual intimacy within the bounds of a committed relationship. It affirms the goodness of physical attraction and the joy of mutual delight between a man and a woman. Allegorically, it has been widely understood as a depiction of the passionate love between God and His people (Israel), or more commonly in Christian tradition, between Christ and His Church. In this view, the lover represents Christ, and the beloved represents the Church, illustrating the deep, intimate, and exclusive spiritual bond they share. This dual interpretation enriches the book's meaning, allowing it to speak to both the sacredness of human love and the profound mystery of divine love.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 1:15 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, particularly in His relationship with the Church, His beloved bride. Just as the lover declares his Shulamite "fair" and praises her "doves' eyes," Christ beholds His Church with an unyielding love and sees her as beautiful. This beauty, however, is not inherent in the Church's fallen state, but is a spiritual beauty bestowed upon her by Christ's redemptive work. He "loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). The "doves' eyes" symbolizing purity, gentleness, and faithfulness find their perfect embodiment in Christ Himself, whose gaze is always pure, gentle, and utterly faithful. He sees the Church not merely for what she is, but for what He is making her to be—a spotless bride, clothed in His righteousness ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). His love transforms her, making her truly "fair" in His sight, anticipating the glorious union at the marriage supper of the Lamb ([Revelation 19:7-8](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7-8 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")). Thus, this verse beautifully foreshadows the divine admiration and sanctifying love of Christ for His redeemed people.

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

Song Of Solomon 4:1

¶ Behold, thou [art] fair, my love; behold, thou [art] fair; thou [hast] doves' eyes within thy locks: thy hair [is] as a flock of goats, that appear from mount Gilead.

Song Of Solomon 5:12

His eyes [are] as [the eyes] of doves by the rivers of waters, washed with milk, [and] fitly set.

Song Of Solomon 4:7

Thou [art] all fair, my love; [there is] no spot in thee.

Ephesians 1:17

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

Ephesians 1:18

The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

2 Corinthians 11:2

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:3

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.