Song of Solomon3

The Shulamite recounts her nocturnal search for her beloved, whom she eventually finds and brings to her mother's home. She then charges the daughters of Jerusalem not to disturb their love. The chapter concludes with a majestic description of King Solomon's royal procession and his splendid chariot, inviting all to witness his crowned glory on his wedding day.
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The Bride's Nightly Search

1
By night on my bed I sought him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not. ​
2
I will rise now, and go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I will seek him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not. ​
3
The watchmen that go about the city found me: to whom I said, Saw ye him whom my soul loveth? ​
4
It was but a little that I passed from them, but I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go, until I had brought him into my mother's house, and into the chamber of her that conceived me. ​

A Plea for Undisturbed Love

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. ​

The Magnificent Arrival of Solomon

6
Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? ​
7
Behold his bed, which is Solomon's; threescore valiant men are about it, of the valiant of Israel. ​
8
They all hold swords, being expert in war: every man hath his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night.
9
King Solomon made himself a chariot of the wood of Lebanon. ​
10
He made the pillars thereof of silver, the bottom thereof of gold, the covering of it of purple, the midst thereof being paved with love, for the daughters of Jerusalem. ​

Behold the King in His Glory

11
Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. ​

Study Notes for Song of Solomon 3

Verse 1

The bride's restless search symbolizes the longing and persistent desire for intimacy with her beloved. The night setting suggests a time of vulnerability and introspection.

Verse 2

Her active pursuit within the city indicates a willingness to overcome obstacles and societal constraints in her quest for love. This demonstrates initiative and determination.

Verse 3

The watchmen, representing societal authorities or perhaps even religious figures, are questioned about the beloved. This highlights the bride's single-minded focus and her willingness to seek help, even from those in positions of authority.

Verse 4

The sudden finding of the beloved after a brief separation emphasizes the nearness of love and the joy of reunion. Her holding him and taking him to her mother's house suggests a desire for deep connection and integration into her family life.

Verse 5

This verse repeats a familiar refrain, emphasizing the delicate nature of love and the need for patience and respect in its unfolding. The images of roes and hinds evoke a sense of wildness and freedom that should not be prematurely disrupted.

Verse 6

This verse marks a shift in tone and imagery, introducing a grand procession. The description suggests royalty, power, and opulence, likely depicting Solomon's arrival.

Verse 7

The sixty valiant men surrounding Solomon's bed highlight his power and the protection he receives. This imagery underscores the security and status associated with him.

Verse 9

The chariot made of Lebanese wood symbolizes luxury and sophistication. The materials used represent the finest resources available to King Solomon.

Verse 10

The description of the chariot as 'paved with love' for the daughters of Jerusalem suggests that Solomon's magnificence is intended to impress and win favor. This could be interpreted as both romantic and political display.

Verse 11

This verse calls the daughters of Zion to witness Solomon's coronation or wedding, emphasizing the joy and celebration surrounding the event. The reference to his mother crowning him suggests a significant role for women in royal ceremonies.

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