Song Of Solomon 4:11

KJV

Thy lips, O [my] spouse, drop [as] the honeycomb: honey and milk [are] under thy tongue; and the smell of thy garments [is] like the smell of Lebanon.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thy lips {H8193}, O my spouse {H3618}, drop {H5197} as the honeycomb {H5317}: honey {H1706} and milk {H2461} are under thy tongue {H3956}; and the smell {H7381} of thy garments {H8008} is like the smell {H7381} of Lebanon {H3844}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Your lips, my bride, drip honey; honey and milk are under your tongue; and the scent of your garments is like the scent of the L'vanon.

Berean Standard Bible

Your lips, my bride, drip sweetness like the honeycomb; honey and milk are under your tongue, and the fragrance of your garments is like the aroma of Lebanon.

American Standard Version

Thy lips, O mybride, drop asthe honeycomb: Honey and milk are under thy tongue; And the smell of thy garments is like the smell of Lebanon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 4:11 presents a tender and evocative expression of the bridegroom's profound admiration for his beloved, the Shulamite. Through rich sensory imagery, he extols the unparalleled sweetness and nourishing quality of her words, likening them to the purest dripping honeycomb and the abundant provision of honey and milk. Beyond her speech, he praises the captivating, majestic, and pervasive fragrance of her presence, comparing the scent of her garments to the renowned, aromatic cedars of Lebanon, thereby painting a holistic picture of her captivating charm, inherent purity, and dignified aura.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a larger poetic section (Song of Solomon 4:1-15) where the bridegroom, traditionally understood as King Solomon, delivers an elaborate and passionate monologue of praise for his beloved. Prior to this, he has meticulously described her physical features, from her eyes and hair to her teeth and lips ([Song of Solomon 4:1-5](/song_of_solomon/4-1-5 "Song of Solomon 4:1-5 - The Bridegroom's Praise")). Verse 4:11 marks a crucial transition, moving beyond outward physical attributes to commend the delightful and nourishing nature of her speech and the pervasive pleasantness of her entire being. It emphasizes that her inner qualities and the essence of her communication are as captivating as her outward appearance, deepening the intimate and affectionate bond portrayed throughout this lyrical book. The Song of Solomon, as a whole, functions as a celebration of human love, desire, and the beauty of marital intimacy, often interpreted allegorically to represent Christ's love for His Church or God's covenantal love for Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, honey and milk were highly prized commodities, symbolizing abundance, prosperity, and purity. The iconic phrase "a land flowing with milk and honey" was a common and cherished descriptor for the Promised Land, signifying divine blessing, fertility, and rich provision, as seen in passages like [Exodus 3:8](/exodus/3-8 "Exodus 3:8 - The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey"). When this imagery is applied to the bride's speech, it elevates her words to a level of supreme nourishment and delight, akin to the most cherished and life-sustaining provisions. Lebanon, renowned for its majestic cedar forests, fragrant spices, and high-quality timber, was a potent symbol of grandeur, strength, and exquisite aroma in the ancient world. Its cedars were famously used in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem ([1 Kings 5:6](/1_kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon's Request for Cedar from Lebanon")), underscoring its value and splendor. Comparing the bride's garments to the "smell of Lebanon" thus conveys a sense of natural, pervasive, and majestic fragrance that speaks to her inherent dignity, purity, and captivating aura, extending beyond her physical beauty to her very essence and character.
* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 4:11 powerfully articulates several key themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. A primary theme is the **sweetness and nourishing quality of speech**, where the bride's words are depicted as more delightful and satisfying than the purest honey and milk. This echoes wisdom literature that extols the virtue of gracious communication, as seen in [Proverbs 16:24](/proverbs/16-24 "Proverbs 16:24 - Gracious Words as a Honeycomb"), which states, "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." Another significant theme is **purity and abundance**, with "honey and milk" symbolizing not just sweetness but also wholesome richness and divine blessing, suggesting that her communication is both delightful and morally pure. Furthermore, the verse highlights the **alluring and pervasive presence** of the beloved. The "smell of Lebanon" signifies a natural, majestic, and captivating aura that permeates her very being, suggesting that her character and influence are as delightful and grand as her words. Finally, the verse underscores the theme of **intimate appreciation and profound adoration** within the marital bond, as the bridegroom's praise moves from physical attributes to the deeper, more profound qualities of his beloved's character and communication.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **spouse (Hebrew, _kallâh'_):** From a root meaning "to be perfect," this term refers to a bride or a son's wife. Its use here emphasizes the sacred and intimate marital bond, highlighting the beloved's status as the bridegroom's chosen and cherished partner, whose qualities are seen as complete and ideal in his eyes.
* **drop (Hebrew, _nâṭaph'_):** A primitive root meaning "to ooze" or "distil gradually," implying a natural, continuous, and effortless flow. When applied to the lips, it suggests that the sweetness of her words is not forced or occasional, but an inherent, constant emanation, like honey naturally dripping from a comb.
* **honey (Hebrew, _dᵉbash'_):** From an unused root meaning "to be gummy," this word refers to honey (often from the comb) or syrup. It denotes a substance of supreme sweetness and stickiness, symbolizing the delightful, rich, and deeply satisfying nature of the bride's speech.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thy lips, O my spouse, drop as the honeycomb":** The bridegroom initiates his praise by tenderly addressing his beloved as "my spouse," affirming their intimate and exclusive marital relationship. He then employs a vivid simile, comparing her lips to a honeycomb from which honey naturally "drops." This conveys that her words, which issue forth from her lips, are inherently sweet, pure, and delightful, flowing effortlessly and abundantly, like the freshest, most unadulterated honey. It speaks to the natural pleasantness and captivating charm of her communication.
* **"honey and milk are under thy tongue":** This phrase further elaborates on the profound quality of her speech. The idiom "honey and milk" symbolizes ultimate richness, purity, and nourishment. By stating these are "under thy tongue," the bridegroom suggests that her words, thoughts, and underlying intentions are filled with this wholesome goodness. Her speech is not merely superficially sweet, but deeply satisfying, pure, and life-giving, reflecting an inner character that is equally wholesome and delightful.
* **"and the smell of thy garments is like the smell of Lebanon.":** The focus of the bridegroom's admiration shifts from her words to her overall pervasive presence. The "smell of thy garments" signifies her pervasive aura or influence, encompassing her character and the very essence of her being. This is compared to "the smell of Lebanon," a region renowned for its majestic, fragrant cedar trees and aromatic plants. This simile suggests that her presence is not only pleasant but also grand, refreshing, and naturally captivating, leaving a lasting, delightful impression, much like the majestic and aromatic forests of Lebanon.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 4:11 is richly endowed with **Sensory Imagery**, appealing directly to the senses of taste ("honey," "milk") and smell ("smell of Lebanon," "smell of thy garments"). This immersion of the senses underscores the profound and comprehensive delight the bridegroom finds in his beloved. The verse prominently employs **Simile**, directly comparing the output of her lips to "honeycomb" and the scent of her garments to "the smell of Lebanon" through the explicit use of "as" or "like." This allows for a vivid and immediate understanding of her qualities. Furthermore, a powerful **Metaphor** is at play with "honey and milk are under thy tongue," where these nourishing substances metaphorically represent the purity, sweetness, and wholesome nature of her speech and inner character. The language also contains elements of **Hyperbole**, as the praise is exaggerated to convey the immense depth of the beloved's admiration, suggesting an almost impossibly perfect sweetness and fragrance. Finally, **Symbolism** is pervasive: "honey and milk" symbolize abundance, purity, and divine blessing, while "Lebanon" symbolizes majesty, strength, and a natural, pervasive fragrance, all contributing to the elevated and idealized portrayal of the bride.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 4:11, while celebrating the beauty of human love and intimacy, also offers profound theological and thematic connections that extend beyond the immediate context. The emphasis on the sweetness and purity of the bride's words resonates deeply with the biblical emphasis on the power and importance of gracious speech. Just as her words are depicted as nourishing and delightful, so too is the Word of God, which is described as "sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb" ([Psalm 19:10](/psalm/19-10 "Psalm 19:10 - The Sweetness of God's Word")). The imagery of "honey and milk" recalls the Promised Land, a symbol of God's abundant provision and blessing for His people, suggesting that true intimacy and wholesome relationships are a foretaste of divine blessing and a reflection of God's good design. The pervasive, majestic fragrance of Lebanon can be seen as an echo of the "aroma of Christ" that believers are called to embody in the world ([2 Corinthians 2:15](/2_corinthians/2-15 "2 Corinthians 2:15 - The Aroma of Christ")), reflecting His character and drawing others to Him. Ultimately, this verse celebrates a love that is not merely physical but deeply spiritual and character-driven, reflecting the divine design for relationships that are pure, nourishing, and a blessing to all.

* [Proverbs 16:24](/proverbs/16-24 "Proverbs 16:24 - Gracious Words as a Honeycomb") - "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
* [Exodus 3:8](/exodus/3-8 "Exodus 3:8 - The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey") - "And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey..."
* [Colossians 4:6](/colossians/4-6 "Colossians 4:6 - Speech Seasoned with Salt") - "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 4:11 offers timeless wisdom for cultivating healthy and enriching relationships, whether in the context of marriage, family, or wider community. It challenges us to consider the profound and lasting impact of our words and our very presence. Just as the bride's speech was likened to "honey and milk," our communication should strive to be gracious, pure, and nourishing, building up rather than tearing down. This means intentionally speaking words of affirmation, encouragement, and truth in love, while actively avoiding gossip, negativity, or harshness. Furthermore, the "smell of Lebanon" reminds us that our character and overall demeanor create a distinct "aroma" that precedes and follows us. We are called to cultivate a presence that is refreshing, honorable, and reflective of Christ's character, leaving a positive and lasting impression on those we encounter. This verse encourages us to appreciate and cultivate not just outward appearance, but the deeper, more enduring qualities of inner beauty, gracious speech, and a wholesome character that truly captivate and bless others. It invites us to consider how our words and actions contribute to the atmosphere of our homes and communities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do my words reflect "honey and milk" in my relationships? Am I intentional about speaking words that are pure, nourishing, and sweet?**
* **What kind of "smell" or "aroma" does my presence carry in my family, workplace, or community? Am I cultivating a character that is refreshing and honorable?**
* **In what ways can I more deeply appreciate the inner qualities and gracious communication of those I love, beyond their physical attributes?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "honey and milk" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "honey and milk" is a powerful and recurrent symbol in ancient Near Eastern culture and throughout the Bible. It represents ultimate sweetness, purity, abundance, and nourishment. In the context of Song of Solomon 4:11, it signifies that the bride's words are not only delightful and pleasant to hear (like honey) but also wholesome, pure, and deeply satisfying (like milk). This imagery elevates her speech to the highest possible standard of graciousness and beneficial impact, suggesting that her communication is both enjoyable and life-giving, much like the description of the Promised Land as "a land flowing with milk and honey" ([Exodus 3:8](/exodus/3-8 "Exodus 3:8 - The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey")).

**Why is "Lebanon" mentioned in connection with the bride's garments?**

Answer: Lebanon was famous in the ancient world for its majestic cedar trees, aromatic plants, and valuable timber. It symbolized grandeur, strength, and a pervasive, delightful fragrance. By comparing the "smell of thy garments" to "the smell of Lebanon," the bridegroom is conveying that his beloved's entire presence—her very essence and character—exudes a natural, noble, and irresistibly captivating aroma. It suggests that her influence and aura are as grand and refreshing as the renowned forests of Lebanon, extending beyond her physical appearance to her inherent dignity and purity. This imagery implies a pervasive and naturally pleasant quality that permeates her being, much like the lasting scent of fine cedar.

**Is this verse only about physical beauty, or does it have deeper meaning?**

Answer: While Song of Solomon 4:11 certainly uses rich sensory imagery to describe the bride's allure, it moves beyond mere physical beauty to emphasize her character and the quality of her communication. The focus on her "lips" and "tongue" (representing speech) and the "smell of her garments" (representing her pervasive presence and character) points to profound inner qualities. The comparisons to "honeycomb," "honey and milk," and "Lebanon" are rich symbols of purity, nourishment, abundance, majesty, and delightful influence. Thus, the verse celebrates a holistic beauty that encompasses both outward charm and, more significantly, the captivating and enriching qualities of her words and spirit. It highlights that true attraction extends to the very essence of a person's being and the goodness they exude.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 4:11, while celebrating the beauty of human marital love, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the relationship between Christ and His Church. Just as the bridegroom praises the sweetness and purity of his bride's words, so too are the words of Christ to His Church infinitely more precious and nourishing. His lips, indeed, "drop as the honeycomb," for His teachings, the Gospel message, and every word He speaks are pure truth, sweeter than honey and life-giving ([Psalm 19:10](/psalm/19-10 "Psalm 19:10 - The Sweetness of God's Word")). "Honey and milk are under His tongue," signifying that His every utterance is filled with grace, divine wisdom, and the very essence of eternal life, providing spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies the soul ([John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - The Spirit Gives Life")). He is the Living Word, full of grace and truth ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), whose words bring light, healing, and salvation. Furthermore, the "smell of thy garments is like the smell of Lebanon" beautifully foreshadows the pervasive and majestic presence of Christ and, by extension, the Church as His bride. Christ's presence is a "fragrance of Christ" to God and to the world, a life-giving aroma that spreads the knowledge of Him everywhere ([2 Corinthians 2:14-16](/2_corinthians/2-14-16 "2 Corinthians 2:14-16 - The Aroma of Christ")). As the Church, we are called to embody this same fragrance, reflecting His purity, holiness, and love to a world in desperate need of His grace. Christ's love for His Church is the ultimate example of the bridegroom's adoration, as He "loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish" ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). Thus, Song of Solomon 4:11 paints a picture of a beloved whose words and presence are utterly captivating and life-giving, a picture perfectly fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ and His ongoing, eternal relationship with His beloved Church.

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

Song Of Solomon 5:1

¶ I am come into my garden, my sister, [my] spouse: I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drunk my wine with my milk: eat, O friends; drink, yea, drink abundantly, O beloved.

Song Of Solomon 5:13

His cheeks [are] as a bed of spices, [as] sweet flowers: his lips [like] lilies, dropping sweet smelling myrrh.

Hosea 14:6

His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon.

Hosea 14:7

They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive [as] the corn, and grow as the vine: the scent thereof [shall be] as the wine of Lebanon.

Song Of Solomon 7:9

And the roof of thy mouth like the best wine for my beloved, that goeth [down] sweetly, causing the lips of those that are asleep to speak.

Genesis 27:27

And he came near, and kissed him: and he smelled the smell of his raiment, and blessed him, and said, See, the smell of my son [is] as the smell of a field which the LORD hath blessed:

Proverbs 24:13

¶ My son, eat thou honey, because [it is] good; and the honeycomb, [which is] sweet to thy taste: