Song Of Solomon 6:1

KJV

¶ Whither is thy beloved gone, O thou fairest among women? whither is thy beloved turned aside? that we may seek him with thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Whither is thy beloved {H1730} gone {H1980}, O thou fairest {H3303} among women {H802}? whither is thy beloved {H1730} turned aside {H6437}? that we may seek {H1245} him with thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

[Chorus] Where has your darling gone, you most beautiful of women? Which way did your darling turn, so that we can help you find him?

Berean Standard Bible

Where has your beloved gone, O most beautiful among women? Which way has he turned? We will seek him with you.

American Standard Version

Whither is thy beloved gone, O thou fairest among women? Whither hath thy beloved turned him, That we may seek him with thee?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 6:1 marks a pivotal transition in the narrative, as the "daughters of Jerusalem," deeply moved by the Shulamite woman's passionate and vivid description of her absent beloved, shift from passive listeners to active participants. Her eloquent portrayal of his perfections and her profound distress over his disappearance compel them to inquire earnestly about his whereabouts, offering their solidarity and assistance in the search. This verse signifies a powerful move from individual lament and longing to a shared endeavor, underscoring the vital role of community in a deeply personal quest for connection and reunion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the Shulamite's breathtaking and exhaustive description of her beloved's physical and characterological perfections in [Song of Solomon 5:10-16](/song_of_solomon/5-10-16 "Song of Solomon 5:10-16 - The Shulamite's Glorious Description of Her Beloved"). Prior to this, she recounts a distressing dream or a real encounter where her beloved "withdrew himself, and was gone" ([Song of Solomon 5:6](/song_of_solomon/5-6 "Song of Solomon 5:6 - The Beloved's Departure")), leading to her frantic search through the city and mistreatment by the watchmen ([Song of Solomon 5:7](/song_of_solomon/5-7 "Song of Solomon 5:7 - The Watchmen's Cruelty")). When the "daughters of Jerusalem" inquire about the unique nature of her beloved and the reason for her intense longing ([Song of Solomon 5:9](/song_of_solomon/5-9 "Song of Solomon 5:9 - The Daughters' Question")), her magnificent reply in the latter half of chapter 5 serves as the direct catalyst for their offer of assistance in Song of Solomon 6:1. This transition marks a profound shift from individual distress and fervent expression to communal solidarity and active support.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Song of Solomon is a collection of lyrical love poems, reflecting the rich poetic traditions of ancient Israel. While its precise historical setting remains a subject of scholarly debate, it vividly portrays the cultural norms surrounding courtship, marriage, and the expression of romantic affection in the ancient Near East. The "daughters of Jerusalem" serve as a recurring chorus or a community of young women, representing the broader societal or peer group. Their function is to observe, question, and occasionally interact with the primary characters, providing a communal backdrop to the intensely personal relationship between the Shulamite and her beloved. In these ancient cultures, communal life was paramount, and significant personal events, including relationships and emotional states, often had a public dimension, even if only through observation, commentary, and, as seen here, active participation. The use of lavish praise and descriptive language for the beloved aligns with the poetic and rhetorical conventions of the era.

* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 6:1 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book. Foremost is the theme of **earnest seeking and longing**, as the Shulamite's distress over her beloved's absence culminates in a communal effort to find him. This highlights the depth and intensity of her devotion, demonstrating that true love will actively pursue its object. Another significant theme is **community and solidarity**, as the "daughters of Jerusalem," initially mere observers, are drawn into the Shulamite's deeply personal quest, showcasing the invaluable nature of mutual support in times of emotional or spiritual need. Their question, "O thou fairest among women," also reinforces the theme of **recognition and affirmation**, acknowledging the Shulamite's exceptional beauty and the profound worth of her beloved, which validates her fervent desire to reunite with him. This communal validation underscores the idea that profound love, even when challenging, is recognized and esteemed by those who witness its depth, inspiring them to join the pursuit. The Shulamite's vulnerability and passionate expression in [Song of Solomon 5:8](/song_of_solomon/5-8 "Song of Solomon 5:8 - The Shulamite's Plea") and her subsequent description in [Song of Solomon 5:10-16](/song_of_solomon/5-10-16 "Song of Solomon 5:10-16 - The Shulamite's Glorious Description of Her Beloved") are the catalysts for this communal engagement, emphasizing the power of authentic witness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **beloved (Hebrew, _dôwd'_):** From an unused root meaning "to boil," figuratively "to love." This term denotes a deeply affectionate bond, implying a love-token, lover, or friend. In the context of Song of Solomon, it consistently refers to the male protagonist, emphasizing the intense, passionate, and cherished nature of the relationship. The repetition of "beloved" underscores the Shulamite's singular focus and the daughters' recognition of her profound attachment, acknowledging the central figure of her affections.
* **gone (Hebrew, _hâlak'_):** A primitive root meaning "to walk" in a wide variety of applications, literally and figuratively. Here, it conveys movement away, departure, or absence. Its use signifies the physical or perceived withdrawal of the beloved, prompting the Shulamite's distress and the subsequent inquiry. The ambiguity of "gone" (whether a temporary departure or a lost connection) heightens the urgency of the daughters' question.
* **fairest (Hebrew, _yâpheh'_):** From a root meaning "to be beautiful." This adjective describes someone as beautiful, comely, or pleasant, used literally or figuratively. Applied to the Shulamite, it is a term of high praise, acknowledging her exceptional beauty and perhaps her inner radiance or spiritual state. This compliment from the "daughters of Jerusalem" suggests their admiration for her, which likely contributes to their willingness to assist her in her quest.
* **seek (Hebrew, _bâqash'_):** A primitive root meaning "to search out" by any method, specifically in worship or prayer; by implication, "to strive after." This word denotes an active, intentional, and often earnest pursuit, not merely a casual glance. The daughters' offer to "seek him with thee" implies a dedicated and concerted effort, mirroring the Shulamite's own intense longing and search, and transforming it into a shared mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whither is thy beloved gone, O thou fairest among women?"**: This opening clause is a direct, empathetic question posed by the "daughters of Jerusalem" to the Shulamite. It expresses their immediate concern and curiosity regarding the whereabouts of her beloved, whose absence has clearly caused her distress. The accompanying address, "O thou fairest among women," serves as a term of endearment and high praise, acknowledging her exceptional beauty, grace, and perhaps her unique status or spiritual depth, which makes her fervent love and sorrow all the more compelling and worthy of their attention.
* **"whither is thy beloved turned aside?"**: This second question reiterates the first, using a slightly different verb ("turned aside" or "turned away") to emphasize the beloved's diversion, deviation, or disappearance from her sight. The repetition underscores the urgency and genuine desire of the daughters to fully understand the situation and precisely locate him. It suggests a movement away, perhaps intentionally or unintentionally, that has led to his current hiddenness, prompting a deeper inquiry into the nature of his absence.
* **"that we may seek him with thee."**: This final clause reveals the profound intent behind their questions: a sincere offer of solidarity, active participation, and communal support. Having heard the Shulamite's passionate description of her beloved and witnessing her distress, the daughters are moved beyond mere sympathy to join her quest. This transforms her solitary search into a collective endeavor, highlighting the supportive and redemptive role of the community in a deeply personal journey of longing and pursuit.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 6:1 employs several effective literary devices to convey its meaning and emotional depth. The primary device is **Dialogue**, as the verse presents a direct question from the "daughters of Jerusalem" to the Shulamite, immediately drawing the reader into the unfolding conversational narrative and highlighting the crucial interaction between the individual and the community. The questions themselves, "Whither is thy beloved gone... whither is thy beloved turned aside?", function as **Rhetorical Questions** in the sense that they are not merely seeking factual information but are expressive of genuine concern, intrigue, and, most importantly, a prelude to active participation. They powerfully underscore the beloved's absence and the Shulamite's distress, prompting a communal response. Furthermore, the epithet "O thou fairest among women" is a striking example of **Hyperbole** and **Praise**, emphasizing the Shulamite's exceptional beauty and perhaps her spiritual radiance, which commands the respect and admiration of the chorus. This lavish praise also serves to validate her deep love and the perceived worthiness of her beloved, further motivating the daughters to join her in her earnest search.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 6:1, particularly when interpreted allegorically, speaks profoundly to the believer's relationship with God and the indispensable role of the community in that spiritual journey. The "daughters of Jerusalem" offering to "seek him with thee" beautifully illustrates the principle of communal support and shared pursuit in the spiritual life. When a believer feels distant from the Lord, experiences a season of spiritual dryness, or struggles to perceive His presence, the encouragement, empathy, and active participation of fellow believers are invaluable. This shared pursuit reflects the corporate nature of the church, where members are called to bear one another's burdens, pray for one another, and collectively strive for a deeper knowledge and experience of God. It reminds us that while our walk with Christ is intensely personal, it is not meant to be solitary; the body of Christ is called to encourage, uplift, and actively join one another in the earnest pursuit of the Beloved.

* [Jeremiah 29:13](/jeremiah/29-13 "Jeremiah 29:13 - Seeking God with All Your Heart")
* [Matthew 18:20](/matthew/18-20 "Matthew 18:20 - Where Two or Three Are Gathered")
* [Hebrews 10:24-25](/hebrews/10-24-25 "Hebrews 10:24-25 - Encouraging One Another to Love and Good Deeds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse offers a profound invitation to consider the dynamics of our own spiritual journeys and the essential role of community within them. The Shulamite's passionate, vulnerable, and eloquent description of her beloved, even in his absence, ignites a desire in others to join her search. This challenges us to consider how our own authentic devotion and longing for Christ might inspire and draw those around us into a deeper pursuit of Him. When we speak openly and genuinely about our relationship with God—His character, His beauty, His transformative presence—we can become catalysts for others to seek Him more earnestly. Conversely, when we find ourselves feeling distant from the Lord, experiencing spiritual weariness, or struggling to perceive His presence, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that we are not alone. The church, our spiritual family, is called to come alongside us, to ask empathetic questions, and to join us in the earnest "seeking" of His presence. It encourages us to cultivate vulnerability about our spiritual needs and to humbly accept the support and intercession of others, knowing that collective prayer and shared pursuit can lead to renewed intimacy and revelation of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my personal longing for Christ, and my expression of it, inspire or impact those around me to seek Him more deeply?**
* **In what practical ways do I actively participate in "seeking Him with" my fellow believers when they are struggling or feel distant from God?**
* **Am I willing to be vulnerable about my own spiritual needs and seasons of dryness, allowing others in my faith community to join me in seeking renewed closeness with the Beloved?**
* **What steps can my community of faith take to better foster an environment where individuals are encouraged and supported in their earnest pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "daughters of Jerusalem" in this verse, and how does their role evolve?**

Answer: The "daughters of Jerusalem" function as a recurring chorus or a community of young women who initially serve as observers and listeners to the Shulamite's personal experiences. In [Song of Solomon 6:1](/song_of_solomon/6-1 "Song of Solomon 6:1 - The Daughters Offer to Seek"), their significance lies in their pivotal transition from passive observers to active participants. Having heard the Shulamite's fervent and detailed description of her beloved in [Song of Solomon 5:10-16](/song_of_solomon/5-10-16 "Song of Solomon 5:10-16 - The Shulamite's Glorious Description of Her Beloved") and witnessing her distress, they are deeply moved by her passion and longing. Their questions about his whereabouts are not merely curious but lead directly to an offer of solidarity and active assistance: "that we may seek him with thee." This highlights the profound theme of communal support, demonstrating that an individual's authentic spiritual passion and vulnerability can inspire and draw others into a shared pursuit of the Beloved, transforming a solitary quest into a collective endeavor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 6:1, viewed through the lens of Christ-centered interpretation, beautifully foreshadows the communal pursuit of the divine Beloved, ultimately and perfectly fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Humanity, in its deepest spiritual longing, often seeks a beloved it cannot fully grasp or has, through sin, lost sight of, much like the Shulamite's earnest search for her absent love. Jesus, as the ultimate Beloved, is the one who, after His earthly ministry and resurrection, was "gone" from human sight through His ascension into heaven ([Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - The Ascension of Jesus")). Yet, He is also the one who promises His Spirit to guide us into all truth and to glorify Him ([John 16:13-14](/john/16-13-14 "John 16:13-14 - The Spirit's Work")). The "daughters of Jerusalem" offering to seek the beloved "with thee" finds its profound fulfillment in the church—the body of Christ—which collectively seeks to know Him more intimately, to walk in His ways, and to make Him known to the world. Just as the Shulamite's passionate description of her beloved stirred others to join her quest, so the testimony and transformed lives of believers about the beauty, perfections, and saving power of Christ draw others to Him. He is the one who promises, "seek, and you will find" ([Matthew 7:7](/matthew/7-7 "Matthew 7:7 - Ask, Seek, Knock")), and He is also the Good Shepherd who actively seeks the lost ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and to Save the Lost")). In Christ, the deepest longing for the Beloved is met, and the communal journey of faith finds its ultimate purpose in knowing, loving, and serving Him, the "fairest among ten thousand" ([Song of Solomon 5:10](/song_of_solomon/5-10 "Song of Solomon 5:10 - The Beloved's Radiance")) and the "chiefest among ten thousand" of our souls.

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 5:9

¶ What [is] thy beloved more than [another] beloved, O thou fairest among women? what [is] thy beloved more than [another] beloved, that thou dost so charge us?

Song Of Solomon 1:8

If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy kids beside the shepherds' tents.

Jeremiah 14:8

O the hope of Israel, the saviour thereof in time of trouble, why shouldest thou be as a stranger in the land, and as a wayfaring man [that] turneth aside to tarry for a night?

Ruth 2:12

The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.

Song Of Solomon 6:4

¶ Thou [art] beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as [an army] with banners.

Song Of Solomon 6:9

My dove, my undefiled is [but] one; she [is] the [only] one of her mother, she [is] the choice [one] of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; [yea], the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.

Song Of Solomon 6:10

Who [is] she [that] looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, [and] terrible as [an army] with banners?