Song Of Solomon 3:7

KJV

¶ Behold his bed, which [is] Solomon's; threescore valiant men [are] about it, of the valiant of Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold his bed {H4296}, which is Solomon's {H8010}; threescore {H8346} valiant {H1368} men are about {H5439} it, of the valiant {H1368} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is Shlomo's litter, escorted by sixty valiant men chosen from Isra'el's finest;

Berean Standard Bible

Behold, it is Solomon’s carriage, escorted by sixty of the mightiest men of Israel.

American Standard Version

Behold, it is the litter of Solomon; Threescore mighty men are about it, Of the mighty men of Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 3:7 presents a vivid tableau of royal majesty and formidable security, depicting King Solomon's grand procession. The verse focuses on his opulent "bed," understood as a ceremonial palanquin or litter, which is meticulously guarded by an elite contingent of sixty valiant warriors drawn from the finest of Israel. This striking imagery not only underscores the immense status, wealth, and authority of the king but also powerfully conveys the profound value and preciousness of that which he protects, setting a tone of grandeur and eager anticipation within the book's overarching narrative of devoted love and union.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a larger, highly descriptive passage (Song of Solomon 3:6-11) that details an awe-inspiring royal procession. It follows the Shulamite woman's intense dream or nocturnal search for her beloved ([Song of Solomon 3:1-5](/song_of_solomon/3-1-5 "Song of Solomon 3:1-5 - The Shulamite's Night Search")), creating a dramatic shift from personal longing to public display. The "bed" or palanquin introduced in this verse serves as the magnificent centerpiece of this grand entry, building anticipation for the climactic appearance of King Solomon himself and his crowned bride in the verses that follow ([Song of Solomon 3:9-11](/song_of_solomon/3-9-11 "Song of Solomon 3:9-11 - Solomon's Royal Procession")). This section functions as a majestic interlude, emphasizing the royal status of the beloved and the immense significance of the impending union or wedding celebration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, royal processions were meticulously orchestrated events designed to project a ruler's power, wealth, and undeniable authority. Kings often traveled in richly adorned litters or palanquins, carried by loyal subjects or elite guards, particularly during significant ceremonial occasions, public appearances, or important journeys. The presence of a substantial, well-armed escort was not merely for practical security but served as a potent visual symbol of prestige, invincibility, and the king's ability to command the finest forces. Solomon, whose unparalleled wealth and wisdom are famously chronicled in passages like [1 Kings 10](/1_kings/10 "1 Kings 10 - The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon"), would have undoubtedly orchestrated such magnificent displays. The "valiant men of Israel" mentioned here would have represented the pinnacle of military strength and loyalty, likely drawn from his personal guard or the most formidable units of his army.
* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 3:7 significantly contributes to several prominent themes woven throughout the book. Firstly, it powerfully highlights **Royal Majesty and Splendor**, showcasing Solomon's immense power and wealth through the lavishness of his conveyance and the formidable nature of his escort. This opulent imagery elevates the status of the beloved, who is implicitly or explicitly associated with this royal grandeur. Secondly, the verse strongly underscores **Security and Protection**, with the "threescore valiant men" emphasizing the impenetrable safety surrounding the king and, by extension, his beloved. This theme resonates deeply with the idea of a secure, cherished, and divinely protected relationship. Lastly, it reinforces the theme of **Value and Preciousness**, as such an elaborate and heavily guarded procession unmistakably signifies that what is being transported or celebrated is of the utmost importance and worth, building intense anticipation for the full reveal of the royal bride in [Song of Solomon 3:11](/song_of_solomon/3-11 "Song of Solomon 3:11 - The Royal Wedding Procession").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bed (Hebrew, _miṭṭâh'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to extend" or "to spread out," literally refers to a couch or sleeping place. However, in this royal context, surrounded by guards and part of a procession, _miṭṭâh_ denotes a highly ornate, portable couch, litter, or palanquin. It is a ceremonial conveyance designed for public display and luxurious transport rather than private slumber, symbolizing opulence, high status, and the mobility of royalty.
* **valiant (Hebrew, _gibbôwr'_):** This word describes individuals who are powerful, mighty, and courageous. It is frequently translated as "warrior," "hero," or "strong man." The use of _gibbôwr_ here signifies that the guards are not ordinary soldiers but an elite corps of formidable and highly skilled combatants. Their presence emphasizes the critical importance and preciousness of what they are protecting, indicating a level of security reserved for the most valuable assets or persons.
* **Solomon's (Hebrew, _Shᵉlômôh'_):** This name, derived from the Hebrew word _shalom_ ("peace"), inherently carries connotations of peace, prosperity, and completeness, reflecting the golden age of his reign. Attributing the "bed" to Solomon immediately establishes a context of unparalleled wealth, wisdom, and supreme royal authority. His name in this verse serves as a powerful shorthand for ultimate grandeur, kingly power, and the zenith of Israelite prosperity, setting the stage for a truly magnificent procession.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold his bed, which is Solomon's":** This opening imperative, "Behold" (Hebrew: הִנֵּה, _hinnēh_), functions as an exclamation, compelling the audience to gaze upon something truly remarkable. The object of attention is the "bed," which, as discussed, is a magnificent royal palanquin. Its immediate attribution to King Solomon establishes the scene within a context of unparalleled wealth, wisdom, and supreme royal authority, inviting the reader to appreciate the grandeur associated with one of Israel's most famous kings.
* **"threescore valiant men are about it":** This clause describes the formidable escort surrounding Solomon's royal conveyance. "Threescore" (sixty) indicates a substantial and impressive number, signifying a large, highly organized, and disciplined guard. The "valiant men" (Hebrew: _gibbôwrîm_) are not common soldiers but elite, mighty warriors, highlighting their exceptional strength, skill, and unwavering loyalty. Their position "about it" (Hebrew: סָבִיב, _çâbîyb_, meaning "around" or "on every side") emphasizes the comprehensive and impenetrable nature of the protection, leaving no flank exposed.
* **"of the valiant of Israel":** This final phrase specifies the origin and exceptional quality of these elite guards. They are drawn from the very best, the most courageous and powerful warriors from the entire nation of Israel. This detail further amplifies the sense of security and the immense value placed on the palanquin and its occupant, as only the most exceptional and trustworthy individuals would be entrusted with such a critical protective role for the king.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 3:7 masterfully employs several **literary devices** to create a vivid and impactful scene, immersing the reader in the grandeur of the royal procession. **Imagery** is central, painting a rich picture of royal opulence and formidable security through detailed descriptions of Solomon's "bed" (palanquin) and the "threescore valiant men." The use of "threescore" (sixty) functions as a form of **hyperbole** or **exaggeration**, emphasizing the sheer scale and impressiveness of the guard, suggesting an almost overwhelming and impenetrable level of protection. The "bed" itself serves as potent **symbolism**, representing not merely a physical object but the king's immense status, his wealth, and, most importantly, the preciousness of what he carries or protects—which is widely interpreted as the beloved bride. The entire verse contributes significantly to a powerful sense of **dramatic anticipation**, meticulously setting the stage for the grand royal procession described in subsequent verses and building profound excitement for the appearance of the king and his beloved.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 3:7, while a description of earthly royalty and formidable protection, offers profound theological insights into the nature of divine care and the immense value God places on His beloved people. The meticulous security surrounding Solomon's "bed" can be seen as a powerful metaphor for God's unwavering, comprehensive, and omnipotent protection over His covenant people. Just as the king's most precious possession or person is guarded by elite warriors, so too are believers safeguarded by the mighty, sovereign hand of God. This imagery speaks to the immeasurable value God places on His children, assuring them of His steadfast presence, impenetrable defense against all adversaries, and His commitment to their ultimate well-being. It serves as a powerful reminder that our true security is found not in human strength, earthly wealth, or temporal power, but solely in the sovereign power and loving commitment of the Divine Protector.

* [Psalm 121:7-8](/psalm/121-7-8 "The Lord Will Keep You from All Evil")
* [Deuteronomy 33:27](/deuteronomy/33-27 "The Eternal God Is Your Refuge")
* [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "The Peace of God Guards Hearts and Minds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in Song of Solomon 3:7 invites us to deeply reflect on the nature of divine protection and the immeasurable value God places on His children. In a world frequently fraught with uncertainty, fear, and spiritual threats, the vivid image of sixty valiant men guarding what is precious offers a tangible and comforting picture of absolute security. For the believer, this translates into the profound assurance that God, who is infinitely greater than any earthly king, surrounds us with His mighty presence and omnipotent power. We are not left vulnerable or exposed; instead, we are cherished, defended, and held securely by the King of kings. This truth should cultivate within us a deep sense of trust and abiding peace, knowing that our lives, our faith, and our very souls are held immutably in His hands. It challenges us to live with courage and confidence, knowing that the One who protects us is invincible, and to fully embrace the extraordinary value He has placed upon us, His beloved.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "threescore valiant men" guarding Solomon's bed deepen your understanding of God's comprehensive protection in your own life?**
* **What "precious things" (whether spiritual gifts, relationships, or personal callings) in your life do you believe God is especially guarding, and how does this verse encourage you in that belief?**
* **In what ways does recognizing God's immense value for you, as depicted by such a grand and secure escort, impact your self-worth, confidence, and willingness to trust Him more fully?**

### FAQ
**What kind of "bed" is being described in Song of Solomon 3:7?**

Answer: The "bed" (Hebrew: _miṭṭâh_) mentioned in [Song of Solomon 3:7](/song_of_solomon/3-7 "Song of Solomon 3:7 - Solomon's Royal Palanquin") is not a typical sleeping bed. In the context of a royal procession and the presence of sixty valiant guards, it is widely understood to be a magnificent, portable palanquin, litter, or sedan chair. This elaborate conveyance would have been richly adorned and used for ceremonial purposes, allowing the king or his esteemed companion (likely the bride) to be carried in public display, symbolizing immense status, luxury, and authority. It functions as a mobile throne, not a bedroom furnishing.

**Why are there "threescore valiant men" guarding it? What is the significance of this number and their description?**

Answer: The "threescore" (sixty) valiant men signify an extraordinary level of security and prestige surrounding the royal palanquin. This substantial number underscores the immense importance and value of what is being protected—likely King Solomon himself and/or the beloved bride. The term "valiant men" (Hebrew: _gibbôwrîm_) denotes elite, mighty warriors, not just ordinary guards. They represent the strongest, most loyal, and most capable of Israel's military, emphasizing the king's power and the impenetrable defense surrounding his most precious possession or person. This detail highlights the grandeur of the procession and the unparalleled safety afforded to the king and his beloved, reflecting the ultimate value placed upon them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 3:7, with its vivid depiction of a king's precious possession or person being guarded by elite warriors, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Christ Jesus and His relationship with His Church. While Solomon's earthly reign and the security he provided were grand, they were but a shadow of the divine majesty and impenetrable security found in Christ. The "bed" or palanquin, representing what is most cherished and valuable, points powerfully to the Church, the beloved bride of Christ, whom He loves with an everlasting love and for whom He gave Himself as the ultimate sacrifice ([Ephesians 5:25](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25 - Christ Loved the Church")). The "threescore valiant men" guarding Solomon's procession foreshadow the spiritual reality that believers are not merely protected by human strength or earthly armies, but by the omnipotent power of God Himself. Jesus emphatically declares that no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand or His Father's hand ([John 10:28-29](/john/10-28-29 "John 10:28-29 - No One Can Snatch Them Out of My Hand")). The King of kings, Jesus Christ, ensures the eternal security of His beloved Church, not with sixty human warriors, but with His very divine nature, His unbreakable covenant, and the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. He is our ultimate refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble ([Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Is Our Refuge and Strength")), guaranteeing our safe passage through this life and into eternal glory, a protection far surpassing any earthly monarch's guard.

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

Hebrews 1:14

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

1 Samuel 28:2

And David said to Achish, Surely thou shalt know what thy servant can do. And Achish said to David, Therefore will I make thee keeper of mine head for ever.

Song Of Solomon 1:16

Behold, thou [art] fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant: also our bed [is] green.

1 Samuel 14:52

And there was sore war against the Philistines all the days of Saul: and when Saul saw any strong man, or any valiant man, he took him unto him.

1 Samuel 8:16

And he will take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your goodliest young men, and your asses, and put [them] to his work.

1 Kings 9:22

But of the children of Israel did Solomon make no bondmen: but they [were] men of war, and his servants, and his princes, and his captains, and rulers of his chariots, and his horsemen.

2 Kings 6:17

And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain [was] full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.