TRV
Translation
King James Version
Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee.
Complete Jewish Bible
Your anointing oils have a wonderful fragrance; your name is like anointing oil poured out. This is why young women love you
Berean Standard Bible
The fragrance of your perfume is pleasing; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the maidens adore you.
American Standard Version
Thine oils have a goodly fragrance; Thy name is as oil poured forth; Therefore do the virgins love thee.
World English Bible Messianic
Your oils have a pleasing fragrance. Your name is oil poured out, therefore the virgins love you.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Drawe me: we will runne after thee: the King hath brought me into his chabers: we will reioyce and be glad in thee: we will remember thy loue more then wine: the righteous do loue thee.
Young's Literal Translation
For fragrance are thy perfumes good. Perfume emptied out--thy name, Therefore have virgins loved thee!
See also
In the KJVVerse 17,541 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.
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Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 1:3
Let it not escape our notice that in some manuscripts we find written “because your discourses are better than wine” instead of what we read: “because your breasts are better than wine.” Although it evidently seems to have meant those things which we have discussed in our spiritual interpretation, nonetheless we preserve in all matters the things written by the seventy translators, because we are certain that the Holy Spirit wanted the outlines of the mysteries to be concealed in the divine Scriptures and not to be revealed and out in the open.
Eusebius of CaesareaAD 339
PROOF OF THE GOSPEL 4:16
And as we are examining his name, the seal of all we have said may be found in the oracle of Solomon the wisest of the wise, where he says in the Song of Songs: “Your name is as ointment poured forth.” Solomon, being supplied with divine wisdom, and thought worthy of more mystical revelations about Christ and his church, and speaking of him as heavenly bridegroom and her as bride, speaks as if to [Christ] and says, “Your name, O Bridegroom, is ointment,” and not simply ointment, but “ointment poured forth.” And what name could be more suggestive of ointment poured forth than the name of Christ? For there could be no Christ, and no name of Christ, unless ointment had been poured forth. And in what has gone before I have shown of what nature the ointment was with which Christ was anointed.
Ambrose of MilanAD 397
On the Mysteries 6:29-30
After this, you went up to the priest. Consider what followed. Was it not that of which David speaks: “Like the ointment upon the head, which went down to the beard, even Aaron’s beard”? This is the ointment of which Solomon, too, says, “Your name is ointment poured out, therefore have the maidens loved you and drawn you.” How many souls regenerated this day have loved you, Lord Jesus, and have said, “Draw us after you, we are running after the odor of your garments,” that they might drink in the odor of your resurrection.Consider now why this is done, for “the eyes of a wise man are in his head.” Therefore the ointment flows down to the beard, that is to say, to the beauty of youth; and therefore, Aaron’s beard, that we, too, may become a chosen race, priestly and precious, for we are all anointed with spiritual grace for a share in the kingdom of God and in the priesthood.
JeromeAD 420
HOMILIES ON THE PSALMS 45 (Psalm 132)
“It is as when the precious ointment upon the head runs down over the beard, the beard of Aaron.” Oh, if only there were time to explore together each verse; even a day would not suffice! We have read in Exodus the account of how oil is prepared for the anointing of the priest; we have read, too, of the different kind of balm used to anoint kings. There was still another unguent for prophets. What more is there to say? All these oils of unction were different, each with its own spiritual symbolism.… Nothing is ever made sacred except by anointing. It is with this in view that young maidens say in the Song of Solomon, “Your name is a spreading perfume: we will run after you in the odor of your ointments.”
Gregory the DialogistAD 604
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 14
[Jesus] was anointed with this oil when he became incarnate. For it was not that the man existed first, then received the Holy Spirit afterwards. Rather, because he became incarnate by the mediation of the Holy Spirit, the man was anointed with this oil at the moment of his creation.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
The fragrance of the finest ointments. The finest ointments are the gifts of the Holy Spirit, by which the breasts of Christ have a fragrance, because the holy teachers, the ministers of the evangelical milk, progress in the love of virtues through the anointing of the Spirit. And indeed the ointments were good, with which the prophets and priests were visibly anointed under the law; but those ointments are the finest with which the apostles and their successors are invisibly anointed. Of these Paul says: And He who anointed us is God, and who sealed us, and gave us the pledge of the Spirit in our hearts (2 Cor. 1). And the apostle John: And the anointing which you have received from Him, remains in you (1 John 2). And you do not need anyone to teach you, but as His anointing teaches you about all things, etc. (Ibid.). Also, they are fragrant with the finest ointments when they spread the reputation of their good works or preaching far and wide; just as they themselves say: But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ Jesus, and manifests the fragrance of His knowledge through us in every place (2 Cor. 2). Moreover, he gives the reason why His breasts are fragrant with the finest ointments, while he adds:
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
Therefore, the young maidens have loved you. He calls young maidens the souls which, reborn in Christ, have cast away the filth of the old man. These adhere so much more to the love of their Creator, as they recognize themselves to receive solely by His grace, both the remission of sins and the gifts of the Spirit, through which they advance in virtues. Hence, they openly profess and say that the Love of God, namely the root of all virtues, has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us (Rom. V). It is also not to be doubted that the earlier saints loved the Lord with a perfect love, and that their pious throngs can mystically be called young maidens, who trampled the examples of the old sinner through the faith of truth, and pursued the rewards of a new life with undoubting hope. Therefore, one of them, certain already of the future good things, speaks to his soul, saying: Your youth will be renewed like the eagle's (Psal. CII). But these things now more aptly fit the heirs of the New Testament, because they are specifically regenerated to God as sons of adoption through the washing of grace. The more they love Him, the greater gifts they receive from Him, so that as soon as they are freed from the flesh, if they have lived rightly, they ascend to the joys of the heavenly kingdom.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
Oil poured forth is your name. Nor is it to be wondered if his limbs exude with ointments, for he himself received his name from oil, so that by anointing he is called Christ, that is, the anointed one. That anointing indeed of which Peter says: "How God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power" (Acts 10). For indeed, the Holy Spirit is accustomed to be understood by the name of oil, as the prophet testifies, who in the praises of the same bridegroom says: "God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions" (Psalms 45). Therefore, his name is not oil dropped, but poured forth, because as his precursor said of him: "God does not give the Spirit by measure. The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand" (John 3). He is also rightly considered by the name of poured oil among his elect, upon whom, appearing in the flesh, he lavishly poured out the gift of his Spirit, so that the things once held secret in one nation, Judea, now, by clear grace, flooded the ends of the whole world, fulfilling the prophecy which said: "I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh" (Joel 2). Explaining this, the apostle Peter said: "Exalted therefore at the right hand of God, and having received the promise of the Holy Spirit from the Father, he has poured forth this gift which you see and hear" (Acts 2). Therefore, his name is oil poured forth, because it is rightly named for what it is, that is, full of the Holy Spirit, rightly named for what his gift of the Spirit works, anointing the hearts of the elect.
Richard ChallonerAD 1781
Draw me: That is, with thy grace: otherwise I should not be able to come to thee. This metaphor shows that we cannot of ourselves come to Christ our Lord, unless he draws us by his grace, which is laid up in his storerooms: that is, in the mysteries of Faith, which God in his goodness and love for mankind hath revealed, first by his servant Moses in the Old Law in figure only, and afterwards in reality by his only begotten Son Jesus Christ.
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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SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 1:3 is a poignant declaration of admiration for the beloved, expressed through the powerful and pervasive metaphor of fragrant ointments. It extols the beloved's captivating character and reputation, likening his essence to a precious perfume freely and abundantly diffused, which naturally elicits widespread, pure, and unadulterated affection from those around him. This verse masterfully establishes the magnetic allure of the beloved, setting a tone of profound appreciation and fervent desire that underpins the entire narrative of the Song.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the opening declarations of the Song of Solomon, a unique and exquisite book of biblical poetry celebrating the beauty and intensity of human love. It immediately follows the Shulamite's fervent expressions of desire for the beloved's intimate presence and kisses, indicating a deep longing and established, albeit nascent, connection. Following this praise in verse 3, the narrative continues with the Shulamite's humble self-description and further expressions of affection, often engaging in dialogue with the "daughters of Jerusalem" (e.g., Song of Solomon 1:5). The commendation in verse 3, likely articulated by the Shulamite or a chorus of women, serves to establish the beloved's compelling and attractive qualities, which form the very foundation of the intense and mutual love described throughout the book. It effectively sets the stage for the passionate exchanges, mutual admiration, and profound intimacy that characterize the Song's progression.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, ointments and perfumes were not merely luxuries but highly valued commodities, signifying wealth, status, and prestige. They were extensively used for cosmetic purposes, for anointing individuals in religious ceremonies (such as priests or kings), and as a significant gesture of hospitality. The "savour" or aroma of these substances was not just pleasant; it conveyed a powerful sense of a person's presence, influence, and even their spiritual state. Furthermore, a "good name" was of paramount importance in ancient society, representing one's entire reputation, character, honor, and enduring legacy. It was often considered far more valuable than material possessions, a sentiment echoed in Proverbs 22:1. The term "virgins" (Hebrew: ‘almâh) refers to young, unmarried women, emphasizing their purity, innocence, and the unblemished nature of their affection, reflecting the cultural norms surrounding courtship and marriage in that era.
Key Themes: Song of Solomon 1:3 profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within the Song and broader biblical understanding. Firstly, it underscores the alluring power of character and reputation. The beloved's "name" is not merely an identifier but encapsulates his entire being, his honor, and his pervasive influence, which is so inherently attractive that it draws others irresistibly. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of love and devotion as a natural, uncoerced response to genuine excellence and intrinsic goodness. The "virgins" represent a pure, unadulterated affection that is a direct consequence of the beloved's compelling and virtuous nature. This love is not superficial but deeply rooted in his intrinsic qualities. Lastly, the verse exemplifies the Song's rich and evocative use of sensory language, particularly the sense of smell. Fragrance is employed throughout the book to describe beauty, intimacy, and delight, making the abstract concept of character tangible and highly desirable, much like the precious anointing oil described in Psalm 133:2.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 1:3 is exceptionally rich in Sensory Imagery, primarily appealing to the sense of smell through terms like "savour" and "ointments." This makes the beloved's abstract character tangible and deeply appealing, evoking a visceral and immediate response in the reader. The verse prominently employs a Simile when it states "thy name [is as] ointment poured forth," directly comparing the beloved's reputation and character to a lavishly dispensed, fragrant perfume. This simile functions as a powerful Metaphor, where the "fragrant name" represents the beloved's excellent, pervasive, and highly desirable character. The phrase "poured forth" also suggests Hyperbole, implying an overwhelming, abundant, and unrestrained diffusion of his attractive qualities, thereby emphasizing the immense extent of his influence and universal desirability.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while celebrating the profound beauty of human love, carries significant theological implications, especially when interpreted allegorically as the divine love between Christ and His Church. It highlights the intrinsic value of a good character and a sterling reputation, suggesting that true influence and attraction stem from one's inner qualities and moral excellence rather than superficial appearances or external displays. The beloved's "name" being "as ointment poured forth" speaks to a pervasive, life-giving, and supremely attractive presence that naturally draws others into relationship. Theologically, this points to the magnetic drawing power of God's character and, preeminently, the person of Jesus Christ, whose very essence is supremely good, holy, and desirable, eliciting a pure and devoted response from all who genuinely encounter Him.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 1:3 invites us to deeply consider the profound and far-reaching impact of our character and reputation in the world. Just as the beloved's "name" was a pervasive and attractive "ointment," so too should our lives, as followers of Christ, emit a compelling and winsome fragrance. This verse challenges us to diligently cultivate inner virtues—such as integrity, kindness, humility, compassion, and sacrificial love—that naturally draw others not primarily to ourselves, but to the ultimate source of all goodness, God Himself. Our actions, our words, and indeed our very presence should serve as a living testament to the transformative beauty of Christ, making His "name" attractive and profoundly desirable to a world desperately in need of His redeeming love and grace. It powerfully reminds us that authentic spiritual appeal and influence do not originate from outward display or superficial charm, but from an inner transformation wrought by the Holy Spirit that permeates every aspect of our being, enabling us to become the very "fragrance of Christ" to those around us.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of "ointment poured forth" in this verse?
Answer: The phrase "ointment poured forth" signifies something exceptionally precious, abundantly available, and freely given. In ancient times, costly ointments were highly valued and used for various purposes, including anointing, healing, and as a luxurious expression of hospitality. To have it "poured forth" suggests a lavish, unrestrained, and widespread diffusion, indicating generosity and abundance. In this verse, it serves as a powerful metaphor describing the beloved's character and reputation as being so excellent and pervasive that its influence spreads widely and irresistibly, attracting all who encounter it. It speaks to the magnetic power of his inherent goodness and widespread renown, making his presence deeply felt and desired.
Who are "the virgins" and why do they love him?
Answer: "The virgins" (Hebrew: ‘almâh) refers to young, unmarried women, symbolizing purity, innocence, and unblemished affection. Their collective love for the beloved emphasizes the widespread and pure nature of the attraction he elicits. They love him precisely because of his compelling character and renowned reputation, which is so inherently attractive that it draws universal and unadulterated affection. This highlights the biblical principle that true love and admiration are drawn by intrinsic goodness and a sterling reputation, as seen in Proverbs 22:1. Their love is a natural, uncoerced response to his captivating essence.
Is this verse only about human love, or does it have a deeper meaning?
Answer: While Song of Solomon 1:3 undeniably celebrates the beauty, passion, and power of human love between a man and a woman, it is also widely interpreted allegorically by many theological traditions, particularly within Christianity. For Christians, the beloved is often seen as a type or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, and "the virgins" represent the Church or individual believers. In this profound sense, the "savour of thy good ointments" and the "name as ointment poured forth" point to the incomparable character, redemptive work, and glorious reputation of Jesus Christ, whose divine presence and sacrificial love are supremely attractive to all who seek Him. This deeper, Christ-centered meaning enriches the verse, connecting it to the ultimate divine love that draws humanity into a saving relationship with God.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 1:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The beloved's "name" being "as ointment poured forth" perfectly prefigures Christ's divine character, His pervasive influence, and His universally appealing reputation. His name, Jesus, is indeed above every name (Philippians 2:9), embodying perfect goodness, holiness, and unparalleled redemptive power. The "fragrance" of His good "ointments" speaks powerfully to the anointing of the Holy Spirit upon Him (Acts 10:38), and the sweet aroma of His sacrificial love on the cross, which is a pleasing and fragrant offering to God (Ephesians 5:2). Just as the virgins were irresistibly drawn to the beloved, so too are believers drawn to Christ by His incomparable beauty, His boundless grace, and His transformative truth; He Himself declared, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself" (John 12:32). His entire life, His atoning death, and His glorious resurrection constitute the ultimate "ointment poured forth," a lavish and unrestrained outpouring of divine love, mercy, and grace that permeates all of creation and draws hearts into pure, unblemished devotion. As His redeemed followers, we are now called to be the "aroma of Christ" (2 Corinthians 2:15) in the world, reflecting His attractive character and extending His pervasive, life-giving influence to a lost and longing humanity.