6:9 6:9

Song Of Solomon 6:10

6:11 6:11

Bible Versions

Who [is] she [that] looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, [and] terrible as [an army] with banners?
Who is she that looketh forth {H8259} as the morning {H7837}, fair {H3303} as the moon {H3842}, clear {H1249} as the sun {H2535}, and terrible {H366} as an army with banners {H1713}?
The daughters see her and call her happy; the queens and concubines praise her. "Who is this, shining forth like the dawn, fair as the moon, bright as the sun"-but formidable as an army marching under banners?
Who is this who shines like the dawn, as fair as the moon, as bright as the sun, as majestic as the stars in procession?
Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, Fair as the moon, Clear as the sun, Terrible as an army with banners?

Song of Solomon 6:10 is a powerful and poetic tribute to the Shulamite woman, likely spoken by the "daughters of Jerusalem" or the king's companions, who marvel at her radiant beauty and formidable presence. This verse captures a moment of profound admiration, highlighting her unique splendor.

Context

This verse follows the Shulamite's passionate declaration of her devotion to her beloved in Song of Solomon 6:3, "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine: he feedeth among the lilies." In response to her unwavering commitment and the profound love she embodies, others turn their gaze upon her. It marks a moment where her internal beauty and devotion shine forth, eliciting an outward expression of awe from those around her. Her beauty is consistently a theme throughout the book, as also praised in Song of Solomon 4:7.

Key Themes

  • Radiant Beauty: The imagery of "morning," "moon," and "sun" paints a picture of unparalleled and increasing luminosity. She is described as emerging with the freshness of dawn, possessing the gentle beauty of the moon, and the brilliant clarity of the sun. This progression suggests a beauty that is not only striking but also growing and all-encompassing.
  • Awe-Inspiring Presence: The phrase "terrible as an army with banners" is striking and creates a powerful contrast with the soft celestial imagery. It does not imply a negative or frightening terror, but rather an awe-inspiring, formidable, and commanding presence. She possesses a dignity and strength that evokes respect and wonder, much like a well-ordered army advancing with its standards.
  • Uniqueness and Distinction: The rhetorical question "Who is she?" emphasizes her distinctiveness. She stands out from all others, possessing a unique combination of grace, purity, and powerful character.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew word translated "terrible" is 'ayom (איום), which conveys a sense of "awe-inspiring," "dreadful," or "formidable." It is used elsewhere to describe something that inspires reverence, respect, or a profound sense of wonder, rather than mere fear. For instance, it describes God's power in Psalm 68:35. Thus, the Shulamite's presence is not just beautiful but also powerful and commanding, possessing a majestic authority.

Significance and Application

This verse celebrates the multifaceted nature of true beauty—one that includes not just physical attractiveness but also an inner strength, purity, and commanding presence. For a general audience, it encourages an appreciation for beauty that encompasses both grace and power. In the context of love and relationships, it speaks to the profound admiration that a beloved can inspire, recognizing qualities that are both tender and strong.

Allegorically, many interpreters see the Shulamite as representing the Church or the soul of the believer. In this view, the verse describes the Church as radiant with Christ's glory, pure and clear, and possessing a spiritual strength that is "terrible" to the forces of darkness, marching forth with the banners of truth and love, as seen in Ephesians 5:27. It speaks to the Church's beauty and its divinely empowered mission in the world.

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.

  • Song Of Solomon 6:4

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

  • Revelation 12:1

    ¶ And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

  • Job 31:26

    If I beheld the sun when it shined, or the moon walking [in] brightness;

  • Song Of Solomon 3:6

    ¶ Who [is] this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant?

  • Ephesians 5:27

    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.

  • Revelation 22:5

    And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

  • Revelation 10:1

    ¶ And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow [was] upon his head, and his face [was] as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire:
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