Song Of Solomon 5:11

KJV

His head [is as] the most fine gold, his locks [are] bushy, [and] black as a raven.

KJV (with Strong's)

His head {H7218} is as the most {H3800} fine gold {H6337}, his locks {H6977} are bushy {H8534}, and black {H7838} as a raven {H6158}.

Complete Jewish Bible

His head is like the finest gold; his locks are wavy and black as a raven.

Berean Standard Bible

His head is purest gold; his hair is wavy and black as a raven.

American Standard Version

His head isasthe most fine gold; His locks are bushy, and black as a raven.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 5:11 presents the Shulamite's fervent praise of her beloved, focusing on his head and hair. She describes his head as being "as the most fine gold," signifying his supreme value, purity, and perhaps his wisdom or noble character. His "locks are bushy, and black as a raven," portraying a vibrant, robust, and strikingly handsome masculine beauty. This verse is a testament to the depth of her admiration and the unparalleled excellence she perceives in him, painting a vivid picture of his physical and intrinsic worth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal part of the Shulamite's passionate and detailed eulogy of her beloved, found in [Song of Solomon 5:10-16](/song_of_solomon/5 "Song of Solomon 5 - The Shulamite's Praise"). It immediately follows the "daughters of Jerusalem's" inquiry in [Song of Solomon 5:9](/song_of_solomon/5-9 "Song of Solomon 5:9 - Daughters of Jerusalem's Question"), where they ask what makes her beloved superior to others. Having just recounted a distressing dream where she sought and lost her beloved, her subsequent description serves as a powerful affirmation of her unwavering devotion and an elaborate answer to their question. Her praise moves systematically from his head downwards, highlighting each feature with rich, evocative imagery, culminating in a declaration of his overall perfection. This section is a literary masterpiece, showcasing the intensity of true love and admiration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, gold was universally recognized as the most precious metal, symbolizing wealth, royalty, divinity, and purity. To describe a person's head as "most fine gold" was to ascribe to them the highest possible value, status, and perhaps even a radiant, almost divine quality. The head, being the seat of intellect and authority, further emphasizes the beloved's wisdom and noble bearing. Furthermore, thick, dark, and luxuriant hair was a highly prized aesthetic quality for men, signifying youth, vitality, strength, and virility. The raven, a common bird in the region, was known for its deep, lustrous black plumage, making it a natural and powerful simile for strikingly dark hair. These cultural understandings amplify the Shulamite's commendation, making her beloved's appearance not just attractive but exceptionally distinguished and valuable by the standards of her time.
* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 5:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Supreme Value and Excellence**, portraying the beloved as possessing unparalleled worth, likened to the most precious substance. This elevates him beyond mere physical attractiveness to a realm of intrinsic nobility, echoing the sentiment of [Proverbs 3:14](/proverbs/3-14 "Proverbs 3:14 - Wisdom More Precious Than Gold") which values wisdom above fine gold. Secondly, the verse vividly illustrates **Masculine Beauty and Vigor**, celebrating the physical attractiveness of the beloved in a way that is both sensual and appreciative, a recurring motif throughout the Song, as seen in [Song of Solomon 1:16](/song_of_solomon/1-16 "Song of Solomon 1:16 - The Shulamite's Praise of Her Beloved's Beauty"). Finally, it powerfully expresses the theme of **Unwavering Admiration and Devotion**, as the Shulamite's detailed and effusive praise reveals the profound depth of her affection and her conviction that her beloved is truly one of a kind, "altogether lovely" ([Song of Solomon 5:16](/song_of_solomon/5-16 "Song of Solomon 5:16 - The Beloved's Overall Excellence")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **kethem (Hebrew, _H3800'_):** This word is translated as "most fine" in the phrase "most fine gold." Derived from a root meaning "to carve out," it properly refers to something mined, specifically ore, and by extension, gold in its purest, unadulterated form as originally extracted from the earth. It emphasizes the intrinsic, unrefined purity and immense value of the gold, suggesting a natural, inherent preciousness.
* **taltal (Hebrew, _H8534'_):** Translated as "bushy," this unique word, appearing only here in the Old Testament, is thought to derive from a root implying vibration or pendulous movement. It describes hair that is luxuriant, flowing, wavy, or curly, suggesting an abundance and vibrancy that adds to the beloved's striking appearance. It conveys a sense of rich, full, and perhaps somewhat wild or untamed beauty.
* **ʻôrêb (Hebrew, _H6158'_):** This word means "raven." It is used here in a simile to describe the color of the beloved's hair as "black as a raven." The raven is known for its deep, glossy, and uniform black plumage, making it an ideal and powerful image to convey the intense, lustrous blackness of his locks, a highly desirable trait in ancient aesthetics.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"His head is as the most fine gold":** This opening clause immediately establishes the supreme value and excellence of the beloved. The head, often associated with wisdom, authority, and leadership, is likened to "most fine gold" (Hebrew: *kethem paz*), signifying the highest quality and purity of the metal. This suggests not only his physical perfection but also his noble character, inherent worth, and perhaps even a radiant, almost divine quality, making him supremely precious in the Shulamite's eyes.
* **"his locks are bushy, and black as a raven":** This clause provides a vivid description of his hair. "Bushy" (Hebrew: *taltal*) suggests luxuriant, full, and possibly curly or wavy locks, conveying a sense of vitality and abundance. The comparison "black as a raven" uses a powerful simile to emphasize the deep, lustrous, and uniform blackness of his hair, a highly admired feature in ancient cultures, symbolizing youth, vigor, and striking handsomeness. Together, these descriptions paint a picture of robust, masculine beauty.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 5:11 is rich in **Simile**, employing direct comparisons using "as" to enhance the imagery. The beloved's head is described "as the most fine gold," and his locks are "black as a raven." These similes create vivid mental pictures and immediately convey the perceived value and striking appearance of the beloved. The use of "most fine gold" also borders on **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration for emphasis, as it elevates the beloved's worth to an almost unattainable standard, underscoring the Shulamite's immense admiration. Furthermore, the imagery of gold carries strong **Symbolism**, representing purity, royalty, immense value, and even divine favor, suggesting that the beloved embodies these qualities. The detailed and specific descriptions also contribute to the overall **Sensory Imagery**, allowing the reader to visualize and appreciate the beauty being described.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while overtly describing physical beauty, resonates with deeper theological truths about value, purity, and the nature of love. The use of "most fine gold" for the beloved's head elevates him to a status of supreme worth, echoing biblical wisdom literature where wisdom and understanding are declared more precious than gold or rubies ([Proverbs 3:14](/proverbs/3-14 "Proverbs 3:14 - Wisdom More Profitable Than Gold") and [Proverbs 8:10-11](/proverbs/8-10 "Proverbs 8:10-11 - Wisdom Better Than Gold")). The Shulamite's adoration for her beloved's beauty, seen as pure and perfect, can be seen as a reflection of how God values and delights in His creation, particularly humanity, made in His image. The passionate, unwavering praise also models the kind of wholehearted devotion and admiration that is due to God, and allegorically, to Christ. It teaches us to discern and cherish true excellence, whether in human relationships or in our spiritual walk.

* [Proverbs 3:14](/proverbs/3-14 "Proverbs 3:14 - Wisdom More Profitable Than Fine Gold")
* [Proverbs 8:10-11](/proverbs/8-10 "Proverbs 8:10-11 - Wisdom More Valuable Than Gold and Silver")
* [Psalm 45:2](/psalm/45-2 "Psalm 45:2 - The King's Beauty")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 5:11 invites us to cultivate a heart of appreciation and articulate praise for those we love. In a world often quick to criticize or take for granted, the Shulamite's effusive and detailed commendation of her beloved serves as a powerful model for healthy relationships. It encourages us to look beyond superficialities and truly see the inherent worth, beauty, and noble qualities in our spouses, family, and friends. By actively identifying and verbalizing these specific attributes, we can foster deeper connection, affirmation, and mutual respect. This verse reminds us that genuine love delights in the beloved's perfections and is not afraid to express that admiration freely and passionately. For believers, it also serves as a call to recognize and celebrate the unparalleled excellence of Christ, whose perfections far outshine any earthly gold or beauty.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific qualities do I admire most in the people closest to me?**
* **How often do I articulate my appreciation and praise for these qualities to them?**
* **In what ways can I "see" Christ as "more fine gold" in my daily life, acknowledging His supreme worth and beauty?**
* **How does my admiration for Christ translate into my actions and devotion?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of describing the beloved's head as "most fine gold"?**

Answer: Describing the beloved's head as "most fine gold" (Hebrew: *kethem paz*) signifies the highest possible value and purity. In the ancient world, gold was the most precious metal, often associated with royalty, divinity, and unblemished perfection. The head, as the seat of intellect, wisdom, and authority, suggests that the beloved's mind, character, and leadership qualities are supremely valuable and noble. It implies an intrinsic worth that goes beyond mere physical appearance, highlighting his excellence in every regard, much like wisdom is valued above gold in [Proverbs 3:14](/proverbs/3-14 "Proverbs 3:14 - Wisdom More Profitable Than Gold").

**Why are his locks described as "bushy, and black as a raven"?**

Answer: This description conveys an image of vibrant, masculine beauty and vitality. "Bushy" (Hebrew: *taltal*) suggests luxuriant, full, possibly curly or wavy hair, indicative of health and vigor. The simile "black as a raven" emphasizes the deep, lustrous, and uniform blackness of his hair. Ravens were common birds known for their striking dark plumage. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, thick, dark hair was highly admired as a sign of youth, strength, and handsomeness, making this a powerful and culturally resonant image of physical attractiveness.

**Is this verse meant to be taken literally or allegorically?**

Answer: Song of Solomon 5:11, like the entire book, is primarily a celebration of human love and physical intimacy within the context of marriage, and thus can be taken literally as a wife's passionate admiration for her husband. However, throughout Christian history, the Song of Solomon has also been widely interpreted allegorically as a depiction of Christ's love for His Church and the Church's love for Him. In this allegorical sense, the "most fine gold" would represent Christ's divine perfection, wisdom, and unparalleled worth, while the "bushy, black as a raven" locks could symbolize His eternal youth, strength, and unchanging glory, as seen in passages like [Revelation 1:14](/revelation/1-14 "Revelation 1:14 - Description of Christ's Appearance"). Both interpretations offer rich insights into the nature of love and value.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Song of Solomon 5:11 literally describes the physical beauty of the Shulamite's beloved, its rich imagery points forward to the supreme excellence and unparalleled glory of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Bridegroom of the Church. If the beloved's head is "as the most fine gold," how much more is Christ's divine nature and wisdom of inestimable value, purer than any earthly gold? He is the very "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory")), embodying perfect wisdom and flawless character that far surpasses any earthly king or lover. His "locks... black as a raven" can allegorically symbolize His eternal vitality, unchanging nature, and profound beauty that transcends physical form, as described in the majestic vision of Christ in [Revelation 1:14-16](/revelation/1-14 "Revelation 1:14-16 - Vision of the Son of Man"). The Church, as His Bride, looks upon Him with the same fervent admiration and adoration expressed by the Shulamite, recognizing Him as "altogether lovely" and "the chiefest among ten thousand" ([Song of Solomon 5:16](/song_of_solomon/5-16 "Song of Solomon 5:16 - The Beloved's Overall Excellence")). He is the one "who takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), worthy of all praise, honor, and glory, for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")).

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

Daniel 7:9

¶ I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment [was] white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne [was like] the fiery flame, [and] his wheels [as] burning fire.

Revelation 1:14

His head and [his] hairs [were] white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes [were] as a flame of fire;

Song Of Solomon 7:5

Thine head upon thee [is] like Carmel, and the hair of thine head like purple; the king [is] held in the galleries.

Song Of Solomon 5:2

¶ I sleep, but my heart waketh: [it is] the voice of my beloved that knocketh, [saying], Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, [and] my locks with the drops of the night.

Ephesians 1:21

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Ephesians 1:22

And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the head over all [things] to the church,

Daniel 2:37

Thou, O king, [art] a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory.