Song Of Solomon 2:1

KJV

¶ I [am] the rose of Sharon, [and] the lily of the valleys.

KJV (with Strong's)

I am the rose {H2261} of Sharon {H8289}, and the lily {H7799} of the valleys {H6010}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I am but a rose from the Sharon, just a lily in the valleys.

Berean Standard Bible

I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley.

American Standard Version

I am a rose of Sharon, A lily of the valleys.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 2:1 presents the female speaker's self-identification using two evocative floral metaphors: "the rose of Sharon" and "the lily of the valleys." This verse initiates a tender dialogue, establishing a tone of natural beauty, humility, and intimate affection that is central to the book's exploration of romantic love and mutual admiration, often interpreted allegorically as the relationship between Christ and His Church or the individual believer.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Song of Solomon 2:1 marks a crucial transition point in the lyrical exchange between the Shulamite maiden and her beloved. Following the initial expressions of longing and admiration in chapter 1, this verse introduces the maiden's self-description, setting a tone of humble beauty. Her self-effacing yet beautiful imagery ("rose of Sharon," "lily of the valleys") precedes and invites the beloved's extravagant praise in [Song of Solomon 2:2](/song_of_solomon/2-2 "Song of Solomon 2:2 - The Beloved's Praise"), where he elevates her above all others. This reciprocal admiration forms the core of their relationship, emphasizing mutual esteem and the profound appreciation of each other's unique qualities. The verse thus serves as a poetic bridge, deepening the intimacy and developing the narrative of their unfolding love.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in Song of Solomon 2:1 is deeply rooted in the agricultural and pastoral landscape of ancient Israel. Sharon, specifically the Plain of Sharon, was a renowned fertile coastal plain stretching from Carmel southwards, known for its lush pastures and wildflowers. Valleys (`ʻêmeq`), or wadis, were often verdant areas, especially after winter rains, providing rich ground for various flora. Flowers like the "rose" (likely a crocus or narcissus, not the modern rose) and "lily" (a general term for various bulbous, often white or purple, flowers) were common, growing wild in fields and meadows. By associating herself with these common yet beautiful wildflowers, the speaker may be conveying a sense of natural, uncultivated beauty, perhaps contrasting with the more exotic, cultivated plants found in royal gardens. This choice of imagery would have resonated deeply with an audience familiar with the natural splendor of their homeland, emphasizing beauty found in simplicity and accessibility.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within the Song of Solomon. Firstly, it highlights the **theme of beauty and humility**, as the speaker identifies with common wildflowers rather than rare, exotic blooms, suggesting an unpretentious yet captivating loveliness. This humility is often met with exaltation by the beloved, as seen in [Song of Solomon 2:2](/song_of_solomon/2-2 "Song of Solomon 2:2 - The Beloved's Response"). Secondly, it underscores the **theme of mutual admiration and affection**, initiating a poetic exchange where the lovers describe each other in terms of natural splendor, emphasizing their deep appreciation. Thirdly, for many theological traditions, the verse carries profound **allegorical significance**, particularly in Christian interpretations where the "Rose of Sharon" and "Lily of the Valleys" are seen as symbolic epithets for Jesus Christ. This interpretation connects the verse to broader themes of Christ's unparalleled beauty, purity, humility, and redemptive work, echoing prophecies of a flourishing spiritual landscape in passages like [Isaiah 35:1-2](/isaiah/35-1 "Isaiah 35:1-2 - The Desert Blooms").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rose (Hebrew, _chăbatstseleth'_):** (H2261) Of uncertain derivation, this term probably refers to a meadow-saffron, crocus, or narcissus. It is not the modern rose, which was not indigenous to the region in the same way. The choice of this flower suggests a bloom that, while beautiful, might be found in common fields, perhaps even in less fertile conditions, implying resilience or unexpected beauty in ordinary settings.
* **Lily (Hebrew, _shûwshan'_):** (H7799) This word encompasses various types of lilies or irises, known for their striking appearance, often white or vibrant colors, and purity (from its whiteness). Lilies were common wildflowers, growing abundantly in valleys and fields, symbolizing elegance, grace, and unblemished beauty.
* **Valleys (Hebrew, _ʻêmeq'_):** (H6010) Derived from a root meaning "to be deep," this refers to a vale or broad depression, often a fertile plain or wadi. The "valleys" here emphasize the natural, untamed environment where these flowers would thrive, suggesting beauty that is accessible, natural, and perhaps less cultivated than garden blooms.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I am the rose of Sharon":** This clause introduces the speaker's self-identification, using a floral metaphor. The "rose of Sharon" (likely a crocus or narcissus blooming in the fertile Plain of Sharon) suggests a beauty that is natural, perhaps humble, yet striking and resilient. It implies an inherent loveliness that is not ostentatious but deeply appealing.
* **"[and] the lily of the valleys":** This second clause further elaborates on the speaker's self-perception, complementing the first image. The "lily of the valleys" reinforces the idea of natural, uncultivated beauty found in common, verdant settings. Lilies are often associated with purity, elegance, and grace. Together, the two images paint a picture of a beauty that is both accessible and exquisite, rooted in simplicity and natural charm.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 2:1 is rich in **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**. The speaker directly compares herself to "the rose of Sharon" and "the lily of the valleys," using these natural images as **Metaphors** for her own beauty and character. These specific flowers are not merely decorative but carry **Symbolic** weight: the "rose of Sharon" (likely a crocus or narcissus) might symbolize a humble yet vibrant beauty, perhaps even resilience in common terrain, while the "lily of the valleys" typically symbolizes purity, elegance, and grace, often found in lush, natural settings. The use of **Parallelism** in presenting two distinct yet complementary floral images ("rose of Sharon" and "lily of the valleys") enhances the poetic rhythm and reinforces the multifaceted nature of the speaker's beauty. The verse also employs **Imagery**, appealing to the senses to evoke a vivid picture of natural splendor and delicate charm.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 2:1, while primarily a celebration of human love, holds profound theological resonance, particularly in its allegorical interpretations. For many, the self-description of the maiden as the "rose of Sharon" and "lily of the valleys" foreshadows or symbolizes the unique beauty and character of Christ. His beauty is not merely aesthetic but embodies perfect purity, truth, and grace, while His humble origins (born in a simple stable, ministering among the common people) align with the unpretentious nature of these wildflowers found in fields and valleys. He is the one who brings life and beauty to the "valleys" of human sin and suffering, transforming barrenness into flourishing life, much as the desert is prophesied to bloom in the messianic age. This verse thus invites believers to contemplate the unparalleled loveliness of their Savior, who is both majestic and accessible, divine and deeply human.

* [Isaiah 35:1-2](/isaiah/35-1 "Isaiah 35:1-2 - The Desert will Bloom")
* [Matthew 6:28-29](/matthew/6-28 "Matthew 6:28-29 - Consider the Lilies")
* [Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Revelation 22:16 - Jesus, the Bright Morning Star")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 2:1, whether understood literally as an expression of human love or allegorically as a depiction of Christ, offers rich ground for personal reflection. It encourages us to recognize and appreciate beauty in its simplest, most natural forms, reminding us that true loveliness often resides not in ostentation but in humility and authenticity. For the believer, this verse can serve as a powerful reminder of Christ's character: His peerless beauty, purity, and grace, coupled with His humble and accessible nature. He is not a distant, unapproachable deity, but one who identifies with the "valleys" of human experience, bringing life and splendor to unexpected places. It also prompts us to consider how we perceive ourselves and how we are seen by God – not as flawed or insignificant, but as possessing a unique, God-given beauty, cherished by our Divine Beloved. This verse ultimately invites us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with the One who is the epitome of all beauty and love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does identifying with "common" flowers like the rose of Sharon and lily of the valleys convey both beauty and humility?**
* **In what ways does this verse challenge our perceptions of what true beauty entails?**
* **If interpreted allegorically, how does the imagery of this verse deepen your understanding and appreciation of Jesus Christ?**
* **How can we, like these flowers, embody a natural, unpretentious beauty in our lives that points to God's grace?**

### FAQ
**What is the "rose of Sharon" and "lily of the valleys" in a botanical sense?**

Answer: While the King James Version translates them as "rose" and "lily," modern botanical consensus suggests these terms refer to specific wildflowers common in ancient Israel, not necessarily the modern rose or a specific lily species. The "rose of Sharon" (Hebrew: _chăbatstseleth_) is widely believed to be a type of crocus, narcissus, or perhaps a meadow-saffron, known for blooming beautifully even in less fertile conditions. The "lily of the valleys" (Hebrew: _shûwshan_) is a more general term for various types of bulbous flowers, likely including irises, gladioli, or true lilies, which were abundant in the fertile valleys and known for their striking appearance and purity. The emphasis is on their natural, uncultivated beauty found in the wild.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 2:1, through its rich imagery, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the immediate context speaks of the beloved maiden, Christian tradition has long seen in the "rose of Sharon" and the "lily of the valleys" powerful metaphors for Christ Himself. He is the ultimate "rose of Sharon," representing His unparalleled beauty, not merely physical, but the beauty of His perfect character, holiness, and love, which blooms even in the "wilderness" of a fallen world. Just as the crocus or narcissus might bring vibrant color to common fields, Christ brings life and splendor to the most ordinary and even desolate human circumstances. He is also the "lily of the valleys," symbolizing His absolute purity, grace, and humble accessibility. Like the lilies that grow wild and uncultivated, yet possess exquisite beauty, Christ came not as an aloof king but as one who dwelt among humanity, identifying with their "valleys" of suffering and sin, as described in [Philippians 2:7-8](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7-8 - Christ's Humiliation"). His sacrifice on the cross, the ultimate act of love, transformed the barrenness of sin into the flourishing garden of redemption, echoing the promise of new life found in [John 12:24](/john/12-24 "John 12:24 - The Grain of Wheat"). Thus, this verse beautifully foreshadows Christ as the one who embodies perfect beauty, purity, humility, and life-giving power, making Him the Beloved of our souls, as revealed throughout the New Testament, from His incarnation in [Luke 2:7](/luke/2-7 "Luke 2:7 - Jesus' Birth") to His glorious return in [Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Revelation 22:16 - Jesus, the Bright Morning Star").

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

Isaiah 57:15

For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.

Hosea 14:5

I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.

Isaiah 35:1

¶ The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.

Isaiah 35:2

It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, [and] the excellency of our God.

Song Of Solomon 5:13

His cheeks [are] as a bed of spices, [as] sweet flowers: his lips [like] lilies, dropping sweet smelling myrrh.

Song Of Solomon 6:3

I [am] my beloved's, and my beloved [is] mine: he feedeth among the lilies.

Psalms 85:11

Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven.