I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake [my] love, till he please.
I charge {H7650} you, O ye daughters {H1323} of Jerusalem {H3389}, by the roes {H6643}, and {H176} by the hinds {H355} of the field {H7704}, that ye stir not up {H5782}, nor awake {H5782} my love {H160}, till he please {H2654}.
I warn you, daughters of Yerushalayim, by the gazelles and deer in the wilds, not to awaken or stir up love until it wants to arise!
O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you by the gazelles and does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right.
I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, By the roes, or by the hinds of the field, That ye stir not up, nor awake my love, Until he please.
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Song Of Solomon 3:5
I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake [my] love, till he please. -
Song Of Solomon 8:4
I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up, nor awake [my] love, until he please. -
Song Of Solomon 1:5
I [am] black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon. -
Song Of Solomon 5:8
I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, if ye find my beloved, that ye tell him, that I [am] sick of love. -
Song Of Solomon 5:9
¶ What [is] thy beloved more than [another] beloved, O thou fairest among women? what [is] thy beloved more than [another] beloved, that thou dost so charge us? -
Proverbs 5:19
[Let her be as] the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. -
Ephesians 5:22
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
Song of Solomon 2:7 is a tender and profound declaration by the Shulamite woman, a central figure in this poetic book, to the "daughters of Jerusalem." It serves as a solemn plea regarding the sacred and delicate nature of love.
Context
This verse is one of three identical charges appearing in the Song of Solomon (Song of Solomon 3:5 and Song of Solomon 8:4 are the others). Each time, the beloved Shulamite woman addresses the "daughters of Jerusalem," who represent the court ladies or a chorus of companions, perhaps serving as a mirror to the reader. The setting is one of budding romance and deep affection between the Shulamite and her beloved, often interpreted as King Solomon, or more broadly, as a celebration of pure marital love. This particular charge comes after a period of intense longing and the joy of reunion, emphasizing the desire to preserve the tranquility and natural unfolding of their love.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The verb "charge" comes from the Hebrew word shaba' (שָׁבַע), meaning "to swear, to take an oath, to implore." This indicates a solemn and binding appeal, not just a casual request. The use of "roes" (tsebiyah) and "hinds" ('ayyalat) are potent symbols. These animals are known for their swiftness, beauty, and shyness, easily frightened by disturbance. Their inclusion emphasizes the vulnerability and preciousness of the "love" being protected. The phrase "stir not up, nor awake" (from the Hebrew 'ur, עוּר) means to rouse, incite, or disturb, reinforcing the idea of letting love rest and emerge naturally.
Practical Application
For individuals navigating romantic relationships, Song of Solomon 2:7 offers timeless wisdom: patience is a virtue in love. It encourages allowing affection and commitment to grow organically, without artificial pressure or premature physical intimacy. For believers, this verse can also be applied spiritually. It reminds us to wait patiently on God's perfect timing for all things, including spiritual awakenings or the fulfillment of His promises. Just as earthly love flourishes best when unforced, so too does our relationship with God deepen when we submit to His will and timing, rather than trying to "stir up" or rush His plans. It's a call to respect the natural progression of deep, genuine connection, whether human or divine.