TRV
Song Of Solomon 2:8
Bible Versions
¶ The voice of my beloved! behold, he cometh leaping upon the mountains, skipping upon the hills.
The voice of the man I love! Here he comes, bounding over the mountains, skipping over the hills!
Listen! My beloved approaches. Look! Here he comes, leaping across the mountains, bounding over the hills.
The voice of my beloved! behold, he cometh, Leaping upon the mountains, Skipping upon the hills.
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John 10:27
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: -
John 3:29
He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. -
Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. -
Song Of Solomon 2:17
Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether. -
Isaiah 52:7
¶ How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! -
Isaiah 35:6
Then shall the lame [man] leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. -
John 10:4
And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
Song of Solomon 2:8 paints a vivid picture of eager anticipation and swift arrival, as the Shulamite woman joyfully recognizes her beloved's approach. This verse marks a shift in the poem, from the woman's longing and introspection to the active presence of her lover.
Context
This verse is found within the Song of Solomon, a unique poetic book celebrating the beauty and intimacy of romantic love. While literally depicting the passionate relationship between a man and a woman (often identified as King Solomon and the Shulamite maiden), the book has also been widely interpreted allegorically. Many see it as illustrating God's deep love for His people Israel, or Christ's profound love for His Church. In this particular passage, the woman has been waiting for her beloved, and his distinctive "voice" signals his imminent arrival, bringing excitement and relief.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "beloved" here is dod (דּוֹד), a term of endearment often translated as 'lover' or 'friend', emphasizing intimacy and affection. The verbs "leaping" (dalag) and "skipping" (qaphats) both vividly describe agile, spirited, and joyful movement. They evoke a sense of boundless energy and delight in overcoming distance and obstacles, underscoring the beloved's eagerness to be reunited with his love.
Cross-References & Significance
Beyond the literal romantic context, this verse resonates with spiritual themes. The beloved's swift and unhindered approach can be seen as a metaphor for God's readiness to draw near to His people, or Christ's eagerness to come to His Church. Just as the Shulamite's heart leaps at the sound of her beloved, believers are called to live in joyful expectation of God's presence and action in their lives. The imagery of overcoming "mountains" and "hills" also symbolizes the way God enables believers to overcome challenges and obstacles with divine strength and joy. Allegorically, this verse powerfully foreshadows the eager anticipation of Christ's return for His bride, the Church.
Practical Application
Song of Solomon 2:8 encourages us to cultivate a heart of anticipation for God's presence and work in our lives. Just as the beloved swiftly approaches, God is always ready to draw near to those who seek Him. It reminds us that no obstacle is too great for God to overcome in reaching us or in helping us. This verse invites us to listen for His "voice" and to trust in His swift and joyful coming, even when circumstances seem daunting. It’s a beautiful reminder of the dynamic and passionate nature of divine love.