Song Of Solomon 3:8

KJV

They all hold swords, [being] expert in war: every man [hath] his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night.

KJV (with Strong's)

They all hold {H270} swords {H2719}, being expert {H3925} in war {H4421}: every man {H376} hath his sword {H2719} upon his thigh {H3409} because of fear {H6343} in the night {H3915}.

Complete Jewish Bible

all of them wield the sword and are expert fighters; each one has his sword ready at his side to combat the terrors of night.

Berean Standard Bible

All are skilled with the sword, experienced in warfare. Each has his sword at his side prepared for the terror of the night.

American Standard Version

They all handle the sword, andare expert in war: Every man hath his sword upon his thigh, Because of fear in the night.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 3:8 vividly portrays the formidable security detail accompanying King Solomon's procession, emphasizing their unwavering preparedness and exceptional military skill. This verse contributes to a broader scene of royal majesty and secure passage, highlighting the vigilance required to protect a figure of such importance, especially against the inherent dangers of travel under the cover of darkness. The description underscores not only the king's elevated status but also the very real threats faced in ancient times, necessitating a highly trained and constantly ready guard.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of a larger descriptive passage (Song of Solomon 3:6-11) that details a magnificent procession, likely Solomon's wedding cortege, as it approaches Jerusalem. The preceding verse, [Song of Solomon 3:7](/song_of_solomon/3-7 "Song of Solomon 3:7 - Solomon's Palanquin"), introduces the "sixty valiant men of Israel" surrounding Solomon's "bed" or palanquin. Verse 8 elaborates on the nature and readiness of these guards, specifying their armament and expertise. The subsequent verses continue to describe the grandeur of the king and his procession, leading up to the joyful arrival and celebration. This immediate context establishes a tone of security, majesty, and anticipation, setting the stage for the union of the king and his bride.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, travel, especially for royalty, was fraught with peril. Roads were often unpaved, and banditry was a constant threat, particularly at night. Kings and high-ranking individuals would travel with significant armed escorts to deter attacks and ensure their safety. The "sixty valiant men" mentioned in [Song of Solomon 3:7](/song_of_solomon/3-7 "Song of Solomon 3:7 - Solomon's Palanquin") and detailed in [Song of Solomon 3:8](/song_of_solomon/3-8 "Song of Solomon 3:8 - The King's Guards") represent a substantial and well-equipped military contingent, indicative of the king's wealth, power, and the perceived need for robust protection. The "fear in the night" was not merely a poetic flourish but a stark reality of ancient travel, where darkness provided cover for ambushes and made navigation perilous.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme in [Song of Solomon 3:8](/song_of_solomon/3-8 "Song of Solomon 3:8 - The King's Guards") is **security and protection**, emphasizing the king's vulnerability and the robust defense surrounding him. This highlights the **value and importance** of the one being guarded. Another key theme is **vigilance and preparedness**, underscored by the guards' constant readiness and their swords "upon their thigh." This speaks to the necessity of being alert and equipped for potential threats, especially under the cover of darkness. The verse also subtly touches upon **order and discipline** within the royal retinue, contrasting with the potential chaos of the "night." These themes resonate throughout the Song of Solomon, which often uses earthly imagery to convey profound aspects of love, commitment, and divine care, as seen in the intimate bond described in [Song of Solomon 2:16](/song_of_solomon/2-16 "Song of Solomon 2:16 - My Beloved is Mine").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hold (Hebrew, _ʼâchaz'_):** This primitive root signifies to seize or grasp, often with the implication of holding in possession or firmly. In this context, it conveys the firm, active grip of the guards on their weapons, indicating not just possession but immediate readiness for deployment and control over their instruments of defense. It speaks to their preparedness and the tangible presence of their power.
* **expert (Hebrew, _lâmad'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to goad" or "to teach," this word implies being trained, accustomed, or skillful. It highlights the professional military training and proficiency of Solomon's guards, distinguishing them as seasoned warriors rather than mere attendants. Their expertise means they are not just armed, but capable and effective in combat.
* **fear (Hebrew, _pachad'_):** This term denotes a sudden alarm or dread, often referring to the object feared or the feeling itself. Here, it underscores the very real and present danger of nighttime travel and potential ambush. This "fear" is not necessarily the guards' personal terror, but the objective threat that necessitates their constant vigilance and readiness, making their protection all the more crucial.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They all hold swords":** This clause immediately establishes the universal armament of the sixty valiant men. The active verb "hold" (rather than merely "possess") suggests a firm, ready grip, indicating their constant preparedness for immediate action. The presence of swords signifies their role as armed protectors.
* **"being expert in war":** This phrase further qualifies the guards, emphasizing their professional competence. They are not merely armed men but highly skilled, trained, and experienced warriors. Their expertise in "war" (milchâmâh, battle/warfare) implies a deep understanding of combat tactics and the ability to effectively use their weapons.
* **"every man hath his sword upon his thigh":** This detail highlights the immediate accessibility of their weapons. Keeping a sword "upon his thigh" means it is sheathed but within instant reach, signifying a state of continuous readiness and alertness. This physical posture embodies their constant vigilance.
* **"because of fear in the night":** This final clause provides the compelling reason for their extraordinary vigilance. "Fear in the night" refers to the very real dangers of darkness—ambush, robbers, wild animals—that made travel perilous in ancient times. It underscores the necessity of their constant readiness, as night offered cover for potential threats.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 3:8 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Imagery** is central, painting a vivid picture of armed, vigilant warriors. The phrase "swords upon his thigh" creates a strong visual of readiness and immediate accessibility. **Symbolism** is also at play, with the "swords" representing protection, power, and defense, while "night" symbolizes danger, vulnerability, and the unknown. The guards themselves can be seen as a **symbol** of security and unwavering commitment. The verse also uses **Metonymy** where "fear in the night" stands for the dangers and threats that cause fear, rather than the emotion itself. The collective "They all" and "every man" emphasizes the **unity** and **thoroughness** of the protective detail, suggesting an impenetrable defense.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 3:8, while describing a physical guard, offers profound theological insights into divine protection and spiritual vigilance. Just as the king's journey was protected by expert warriors against the dangers of the night, so too are believers safeguarded by a greater power against spiritual adversaries. This passage subtly points to the concept of God's watchful care over His people, even in times of darkness or vulnerability. It also serves as an earthly illustration of the spiritual preparedness required of those who follow God, reminding us that the Christian life is not without its battles, and vigilance is paramount.

* [Psalm 121:4](/psalms/121-4 "Psalm 121:4 - The Lord is Israel's Keeper") - "Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep."
* [Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - The Full Armor of God") - "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."
* [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - Be Sober and Vigilant") - "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The image of the king's guards, "expert in war" and with "swords upon their thigh because of fear in the night," serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual life. It calls believers to a state of constant spiritual vigilance and preparedness. Just as physical dangers lurked in the ancient night, spiritual dangers—temptations, deceptions, and the attacks of the enemy—abound in our world. We are called to be "expert in war" not through physical combat, but through proficiency in God's Word, prayer, and discerning the times. Our "sword upon the thigh" is the ready application of biblical truth and the power of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. This verse encourages us to acknowledge the reality of spiritual threats ("fear in the night") and to live with intentional readiness, trusting that our ultimate protection comes from the One who never slumbers or sleeps.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel most vulnerable to "fear in the night" (spiritual attacks or anxieties)?**
* **How does the concept of being "expert in war" translate to your spiritual discipline and growth?**
* **What does it mean for you to have your "sword upon your thigh" in your daily walk with Christ?**
* **How can you cultivate greater vigilance and preparedness against spiritual dangers in your life?**

### FAQ

**Who are "they" referred to in Song of Solomon 3:8, and why are they so heavily armed?**

Answer: "They" refers to the "sixty valiant men of Israel" mentioned in the preceding verse, [Song of Solomon 3:7](/song_of_solomon/3-7 "Song of Solomon 3:7 - Solomon's Palanquin"). These are King Solomon's elite personal guards or military escort. They are heavily armed and described as "expert in war" because they are protecting a highly important figure, King Solomon, during a significant procession, likely his wedding journey. In ancient times, travel, especially at night, was fraught with the danger of ambushes, bandits, and other threats. Their formidable armament and constant readiness ("every man hath his sword upon his thigh") underscore the king's value and the very real need for robust security against "fear in the night."

**What is the significance of "fear in the night" in this verse?**

Answer: "Fear in the night" highlights the inherent dangers and vulnerabilities associated with travel and activity after sunset in ancient Israel. Darkness provided cover for various threats, including robbers, wild animals, and potential enemies. This phrase is not necessarily about the guards' personal fear, but rather the objective, tangible threats that necessitated their extreme vigilance and preparedness. It emphasizes the practical reality of the environment and the crucial role of the guards in ensuring the king's safety against these nocturnal perils. It reinforces the theme of constant watchfulness against unseen or hidden dangers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 3:8, with its depiction of a king protected by vigilant, expert guards against the dangers of the night, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Solomon's procession was secured, so too is the Church, the Bride of Christ, eternally protected by her King. Jesus is the ultimate "expert in war," having triumphed decisively over sin, death, and the powers of darkness (Colossians 2:15). He is the [Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd"), standing as our constant, unwavering guard against every spiritual "fear in the night." The vigilance of Solomon's guards foreshadows Christ's ceaseless intercession for His people, as He "ever lives to make intercession" for us ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")). Furthermore, the "sword" held by the guards can be seen as a type of the "sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" ([Ephesians 6:17](/ephesians/6-17 "Ephesians 6:17 - The Sword of the Spirit")), the very instrument Christ wields in His victory over evil and which He provides for His followers to stand firm in their spiritual battles. Our ultimate security is not in human might, but in the divine protection of the King of Kings, who has overcome the world and promises to be with us "always, to the very end of the age" ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission")).

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

Psalms 45:3

Gird thy sword upon [thy] thigh, O [most] mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty.

Ephesians 6:16

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

Ephesians 6:18

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Psalms 149:5

Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.

Psalms 149:9

To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.

Psalms 91:5

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day;

Nehemiah 4:21

So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared.