Song of Solomon 4:6

Translation
King James Version
Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Until the day H3117 break H6315, and the shadows H6752 flee away H5127, I will get H3212 me to the mountain H2022 of myrrh H4753, and to the hill H1389 of frankincense H3828.
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Complete Jewish Bible
When the day's cool breeze comes up and the shadows lengthen, I will get myself to the mountain of myrrh to the hill of frankincense.
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Berean Standard Bible
Before the day breaks and the shadows flee, I will make my way to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense.
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American Standard Version
Until the day be cool, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, And to the hill of frankincense.
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World English Bible Messianic
Until the day is cool, and the shadows flee away, I will go to the mountain of myrrh, to the hill of frankincense.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Vntill the day breake, and the shadowes flie away, I wil go into the mountaine of myrrhe and to the mountaine of incense.
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Young's Literal Translation
Till the day doth break forth, And the shadows have fled away, I will get me unto the mountain of myrrh, And unto the hill of frankincense.
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See also
Song of Solomon 2:17Song of Solomon 4:14Luke 1:78Exodus 30:23Exodus 30:26Exodus 37:29Revelation 5:8
In the KJVVerse 17,589 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Song of Solomon 4:6 articulates the lover's profound desire for an uninterrupted and intimate union with his beloved, the Shulamite. It expresses a yearning to retreat with her to a sacred, fragrant sanctuary, metaphorically depicted as the "mountain of myrrh" and "hill of frankincense." This declaration anticipates a time when all impediments, uncertainties, and "shadows" will vanish, allowing their love to flourish in complete clarity, unhindered communion, and pure delight.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the lover's impassioned and detailed praise of his beloved's beauty (Song of Solomon 4:1-7). Having meticulously described her physical features, from her eyes to her feet, using rich natural and precious imagery, the lover's declaration in verse 6 serves as a climactic expression of his yearning for exclusive union. It signifies a transition from external admiration to an internal, deep desire for shared, undisturbed experience. This longing for retreat sets the stage for the intimate invitation that follows in Song of Solomon 4:8 and subsequent verses, where he calls her to leave her past behind and come away with him. The preceding verses establish her captivating allure, making his desire for a secluded, intimate haven with her a natural and compelling progression of his adoration.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: Myrrh and frankincense were highly esteemed aromatic resins in the ancient Near East, deeply interwoven with the cultural, economic, and religious life of Israel. Myrrh, derived from the Commiphora myrrha tree, was prized for its use in perfumes, anointing oils, embalming, and medicinal applications, known for its bitter initial taste but delightful, lingering fragrance. Frankincense, extracted from Boswellia trees, was a crucial component of the holy incense burned in the Tabernacle and Temple rituals, as commanded in Exodus 30:34-38. Both were expensive commodities, signifying wealth, honor, and sacredness. Their presence in this verse evokes an atmosphere of preciousness, purity, and intoxicating delight, reflecting the immense value placed on the beloved and the profound, almost sacred, intimacy sought by the lover.
  • Key Themes: Song of Solomon 4:6 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book. The phrase "Until the day break, and the shadows flee away" introduces the theme of Anticipation and Longing, expressing a yearning for an ideal, unhindered state of communion—a perfect dawn where all hindrances or uncertainties disappear. This echoes similar sentiments of longing for the beloved's presence and the end of separation found in Song of Solomon 2:17 and Song of Solomon 8:14. The destination, "the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense," emphasizes Intimacy and Sanctuary, symbolizing a private, elevated, and precious haven for their exclusive love. This imagery reinforces the theme of Beauty and Preciousness, as the beloved's presence and the union itself are associated with these highly valued, fragrant substances, underscoring the intoxicating allure and delightful atmosphere of their shared space, much like the beloved's garments are described as fragrant in Song of Solomon 4:11.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • day (Hebrew, yôwm', H3117): This word (H3117) refers to a period of time, often specifically the warm hours from sunrise to sunset, but also used figuratively for a defined space of time or an epoch. In the phrase "until the day break," it signifies the transition from night to morning, symbolizing the arrival of clarity, light, and full revelation. It marks an end to any period of waiting, obscurity, or separation, anticipating a time of unhindered presence and joy.
  • flee away (Hebrew, nûwç', H5127): This primitive root (H5127) means "to flit, i.e., vanish away (subside, escape)." When applied to "shadows," it vividly conveys their complete and decisive disappearance with the rising sun. It implies the cessation of all things that obscure, hinder, or represent darkness—whether literal shadows, uncertainties, or any impediments to perfect communion. The active "fleeing" suggests a swift and complete removal.
  • myrrh (Hebrew, môr', H4753): This aromatic resin (H4753), derived from a specific tree, was highly valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties, often used in perfumes and anointing oils. In the Song of Solomon, myrrh consistently symbolizes preciousness, delightful fragrance, and the alluring presence of the beloved. Its mention here, alongside frankincense, creates an atmosphere of exquisite delight and sacred intimacy, emphasizing the preciousness and intoxicating nature of the desired union.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Until the day break": This phrase establishes a temporal condition, indicating a period of anticipation and longing. "Daybreak" signifies the dawn, the moment when light decisively overcomes darkness and obscurity. In the context of intimacy, it suggests the longed-for arrival of perfect clarity, full presence, and unhindered communion, when any "night" of separation, partial understanding, or hiddenness gives way to complete revelation and joy.
  • "and the shadows flee away": This clause describes the natural and inevitable consequence of daybreak—the complete disappearance of shadows. Metaphorically, "shadows" represent anything that obscures, hinders, or creates uncertainty or separation within the relationship. Their "fleeing away" implies a decisive and complete removal of all obstacles, doubts, imperfections, or even the passage of time that might impede pure, unadulterated intimacy.
  • "I will get me to the mountain of myrrh": This declares the lover's resolute intention and destination for retreat. A "mountain" suggests a lofty, elevated, set-apart, and perhaps arduous destination, signifying the preciousness and exclusivity of the desired sanctuary. "Myrrh," a costly and fragrant spice, imbues this "mountain" with an atmosphere of delight, preciousness, and alluring fragrance, indicating that the destination is characterized by the beloved's delightful presence and the intoxicating nature of their union.
  • "and to the hill of frankincense": This parallels the previous phrase, reinforcing the imagery of a sacred, fragrant retreat. A "hill" (H1389, gibʻâh) is similar to a mountain (H2022, har), emphasizing elevation, seclusion, and a distinct, chosen place. "Frankincense," another highly valued and fragrant spice, particularly associated with worship, purity, and offerings in ancient Israel, further enhances the sense of sacredness, profound delight, and unblemished purity associated with this intimate haven. Together, these locations represent a place of ultimate pleasure, undisturbed communion, and consecrated love.

Literary Devices

Song of Solomon 4:6 is rich with evocative Imagery, painting a vivid picture of the transition from night to dawn, the disappearance of shadows, and the fragrant, elevated landscapes of myrrh and frankincense. The phrase "Until the day break, and the shadows flee away" employs Antithesis, contrasting the darkness and obscurity of "shadows" with the light and clarity of "daybreak," thereby highlighting the longed-for transition from longing to fulfillment. The "mountain of myrrh" and "hill of frankincense" are powerful Metaphors and Symbols. The "mountain" and "hill" symbolize an elevated, secluded, and pure sanctuary, a private space reserved for intimate communion, suggesting a place set apart from the mundane. Myrrh and frankincense, with their preciousness, intoxicating fragrance, and associations with sacred rituals, serve as potent Symbols of the beloved's alluring presence, the delightful atmosphere of their union, and the sacredness and purity of their love. The entire verse also demonstrates Poetic Parallelism, where the two halves of the verse (the temporal condition of daybreak/shadows fleeing and the spatial destination of mountain of myrrh/hill of frankincense) mirror and reinforce each other's meaning, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing expression of desire and anticipation.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse, when interpreted through an allegorical lens—a common approach to the Song of Solomon within Christian theology—often speaks to the spiritual longing for ultimate communion with God. The "day break" can be seen as the eschatological dawn of God's full, unveiled presence, whether in the believer's personal experience of spiritual revelation or in the glorious, consummated return of Christ, when all "shadows" of sin, suffering, and separation will definitively flee away. The "mountain of myrrh and hill of frankincense" then represent the very presence of God, a sacred and exalted place of supreme delight, pure worship, and undisturbed fellowship, where the soul finds its deepest satisfaction and eternal joy. This profound longing for a pure, unhindered dwelling with the Divine resonates deeply with the human spirit's innate desire for its Creator and its ultimate fulfillment in Him.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Song of Solomon 4:6 offers a profound invitation to cultivate intentional spaces for deep connection, both in human relationships and in our spiritual walk. In marriage, it encourages couples to actively seek and protect moments of undisturbed intimacy, retreating from the "shadows" of daily distractions, conflicts, or external pressures to a "mountain" of shared delight and communion. This requires prioritizing quality time, open communication, and a commitment to nurturing the sacred bond that God has established. Spiritually, the verse calls believers to a deeper longing for the tangible, unhindered presence of God. It encourages us to anticipate the "day break" of His full revelation, whether in our daily quiet times, in corporate worship, or in the ultimate eschatological hope of His return. We are invited to "get to the mountain of myrrh and hill of frankincense"—to intentionally seek out the fragrant, precious, and pure presence of God through prayer, worship, meditation on His Word, and obedience, allowing His light to dispel all "shadows" of doubt, fear, anxiety, or sin in our lives, leading us into a deeper, more satisfying fellowship with Him.

Questions for Reflection

  • What "shadows" or distractions in your life currently hinder deeper intimacy, either in your significant human relationships or in your walk with God?
  • How can you intentionally create a "mountain of myrrh and hill of frankincense"—a sacred, undisturbed space—for communion with your loved ones or with God?
  • What does "the day break" signify for you in your spiritual journey, and how does this verse fuel your anticipation for God's full, unveiled presence?

FAQ

What is the significance of "day break" and "shadows flee away" in this verse?

Answer: "Day break" symbolizes the arrival of dawn, representing a longed-for time of clarity, full presence, and unhindered joy, where any darkness or obscurity is dispelled. It signifies the end of a period of waiting or partial understanding. The "shadows fleeing away" describes the complete and decisive disappearance of all hindrances, uncertainties, or obstacles that might impede perfect intimacy and communion. Together, these phrases express a deep yearning for an ideal, unblemished state of union, free from any form of separation or imperfection. This imagery is a poetic way to convey the transition from longing and waiting to complete fulfillment and delight, anticipating a time when all impediments to love and connection are removed, and full light and presence prevail. It evokes a powerful sense of hope and the promise of undisturbed fellowship.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While originating in a human love poem, Song of Solomon 4:6 finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment when interpreted allegorically as the longing of Christ for His Church, or the believer's yearning for Christ. The "day break" powerfully foreshadows the glorious return of Jesus Christ, the true "Sun of Righteousness" who will rise with healing in His wings (Malachi 4:2). At His coming, all the "shadows" of sin, suffering, death, and the present fallen age will definitively and eternally "flee away" (Revelation 21:4). Christ's declaration, "I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense," can be seen as His divine desire to bring His beloved Bride, the Church, into perfect, unhindered communion with Himself in the New Heavens and New Earth—a place of ultimate purity, worship, and fragrant delight. This echoes the promise of His return to take His people to Himself, that where He is, they may be also (John 14:3). The precious spices symbolize the inherent value and spiritual beauty of the redeemed in Christ, made fragrant by His righteousness and the aroma of His sacrifice (Ephesians 5:2). This verse thus anticipates the eternal, unblemished communion believers will share with Him, where all longing will be fulfilled in His glorious and everlasting presence (Philippians 3:20-21).

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Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.
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BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
I will go to the mountain of myrrh, etc. In myrrh is represented the mortification of the flesh, or the endurance of sufferings for the sake of piety; in incense, the high devotion of prayer is expressed. But the mountain of myrrh, and the hill of incense, represent the very loftiness of the mind of those who effectively overcome the struggle of the flesh, and fervently lift themselves to the love of heavenly things. Indeed, to this mountain and this hill the Lord goes, because He will often deign to visit and dwell in the hearts of those who strive for virtues. Hence, He says: I will dwell in them, and walk among them (II Cor. VI). Praising the Church, therefore, and enumerating each member of its virtues, He suddenly adds: I will go to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of incense, which is openly saying: I will frequent them and glorify them with benevolent enlightenment, whom I observe to be exalted in the virtue of suffering or prayer. I will come often and make my abode with them; whom I regard as purifying from the pollution of the body and perfecting sanctification in the fear of God. Not that He proposes to desert it, which He praised, and to go to others, but because He intends to daily add new peoples to the same Church and to extend it throughout the entire world. Nor is it incongruous that these things, since the speech is about the Church from the nations, might be understood regarding the calling of the Synagogue, which is to occur at the end. For He returns an answer to her desire, in which, having found Him previously, she said: I held Him and would not let Him go until I brought Him into my mother's house. And in the next verse, He taught that the Church of the Gentiles would never let Him go, as He said: Your two breasts are like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the lilies, until the day breathes and the shadows flee away; that is, teachers will be in you, who will instruct two peoples, concordant in humble and chaste love until the end of the age, when the day of eternal retribution will appear. Then, because He is also going to call Judea, He more manifestly insinuates, adding: I will go to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of incense; not because on coming, He will find it in the height of virtues, which having given a bill of divorce has long since departed from His faith, but because by coming, He will make it worthy of His fellowship. Hence, He well immediately subjoins about the very ample beauty of the one and the same Church, which is to be gathered either from Judea or from all nations throughout the world.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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