Song of Solomon 6:10

Translation
King James Version
Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?
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KJV (with Strong's)
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?
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Complete Jewish Bible
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?
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Berean Standard Bible
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?
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American Standard Version
Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, Fair as the moon, Clear as the sun, Terrible as an army with banners?
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World English Bible Messianic
Who is she who looks out as the morning, beautiful as the moon, clear as the sun, and awesome as an army with banners?
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Geneva Bible (1599)
I went downe to the garden of nuttes, to see the fruites of the valley, to see if the vine budded, and if the pomegranates flourished.
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Young's Literal Translation
`Who is this that is looking forth as morning, Fair as the moon--clear as the sun, Awe-inspiring as bannered hosts?'
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See also
Song of Solomon 6:4Revelation 12:1Job 31:26Song of Solomon 3:6Ephesians 5:27Revelation 22:5Revelation 10:1
In the KJVVerse 17,625 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Song of Solomon 6:10 presents a breathtaking encomium for the Shulamite woman, voiced by captivated onlookers, likely the "daughters of Jerusalem" or king's companions. This verse extols her unparalleled beauty and formidable presence through a series of escalating natural metaphors: she emerges with the freshness of the morning, possesses the gentle radiance of the moon, and shines with the brilliant clarity of the sun. The description culminates in a striking image of her awe-inspiring and majestic power, likened to an army marching with its banners. It encapsulates a moment of profound admiration, recognizing her unique blend of grace, purity, and compelling strength that commands respect and wonder.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse appears at a pivotal juncture in the Song of Solomon, immediately following the Shulamite's passionate and unwavering declaration of devotion to her beloved in Song of Solomon 6:3. Her words, "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine: he feedeth among the lilies," powerfully affirm the secure and exclusive nature of their reciprocal love. In response to this profound expression of mutual belonging, the narrative perspective shifts from the intimate dialogue of the lovers to the external observations of others, likely the "daughters of Jerusalem" or the king's companions mentioned earlier in the book. This external praise serves as a public validation and celebration of the deep, abiding love described within the relationship. Her inner devotion and beauty have become so profound that they manifest as an undeniable, radiant presence, drawing the admiration and wonder of all who behold her. The verse thus highlights the public recognition and awe inspired by a love that is both deeply personal and outwardly manifest.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The Song of Solomon is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern cultural milieu, where poetic expressions of love, beauty, and admiration were common and highly valued. The imagery employed in Song of Solomon 6:10—morning, moon, sun, and an army with banners—would have resonated profoundly with an audience familiar with agricultural cycles, celestial observations, and the visual grandeur of military processions. The "morning" (dawn) symbolizes new beginnings, freshness, and the dispelling of darkness, often associated with hope and vitality. The "moon" represents gentle, ethereal beauty, frequently linked to night, romance, and subtle allure. The "sun" denotes brilliant, overwhelming light, warmth, and life-giving power, signifying ultimate clarity and radiance. The culminating image of "an army with banners" (or standards) would have been a common and powerful sight, symbolizing strength, order, unity, and an undeniable, imposing presence. Banners served not only as rallying points for troops but also as powerful visual declarations of identity, authority, and conquest, inspiring both awe and respect. This sophisticated combination of natural and military imagery elevates the Shulamite's beauty beyond mere physical attractiveness to a realm of profound, almost regal, influence and commanding presence.
  • Key Themes: Song of Solomon 6:10 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of Radiant Beauty, portraying the Shulamite's loveliness as not merely physical but possessing an increasing luminosity, progressing from the soft glow of dawn to the brilliant clarity of the sun. This progression suggests a beauty that is dynamic, growing, and all-encompassing, echoing earlier praises of her loveliness, such as the beloved's declaration in Song of Solomon 4:7, "Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee." Secondly, the verse introduces the theme of Awe-Inspiring Presence, as the seemingly contrasting image of "terrible as an army with banners" conveys a sense of formidable dignity and strength, rather than fear. This suggests a woman who commands profound respect and wonder, possessing a majestic authority that transcends conventional prettiness. Finally, the opening rhetorical question, "Who is she?", emphasizes her Uniqueness and Distinction, highlighting that she stands apart from all others, embodying a rare combination of grace, purity, and powerful character. This distinctiveness is a recurring motif throughout the Song, affirming the special and unparalleled nature of the beloved.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Looketh forth (Hebrew, shâqaph', H8259): A primitive root; properly, to lean out (of a window), i.e. (by implication) peep or gaze (passively, be a spectacle); appear, look (down, forth, out). This word suggests an active emergence or a deliberate manifestation, as if she is stepping into view or becoming clearly apparent. It implies a visible, radiating presence that naturally draws attention and captivates observers from the moment she appears.
  • Terrible (Hebrew, ʼâyôm', H366): From an unused root (meaning to frighten); frightful; terrible. While the root suggests a sense of fright, in the context of this verse and other biblical uses (e.g., Psalm 68:35), this word conveys a profound sense of awe-inspiring, formidable, or majestic power that commands respect and wonder, rather than mere fear or dread. It describes something that evokes a powerful emotional response due to its grandeur, might, and undeniable presence.
  • Banners (Hebrew, dâgal', H1713): A primitive root; to flaunt, i.e. raise a flag; figuratively, to be conspicuous; (set up, with) banners, chiefest. This word refers to the raising of a standard or flag, making something conspicuous and serving as a rallying point. It evokes the image of an organized, powerful military force, marching with its ensigns proudly displayed. This signifies unity, strength, and an imposing, undeniable presence that inspires reverence and recognition of authority.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Who is she that looketh forth as the morning": This rhetorical question immediately arrests attention, drawing the gaze of the observers to the Shulamite and highlighting her unique, striking appearance. The comparison to "morning" (dawn) evokes images of freshness, newness, and the gentle, hopeful light that dispels darkness. It suggests a beauty that is emerging, vibrant, and full of promise, captivating observers from the very moment she becomes visible, bringing with her a sense of renewal and vitality.
  • "fair as the moon, clear as the sun": This progression of celestial similes indicates an increasing intensity and brilliance in her beauty. "Fair as the moon" likens her loveliness to the moon's gentle glow, suggesting an ethereal, serene, and captivating quality often associated with romance and subtle allure. Following this, "clear as the sun" portrays her beauty as utterly radiant, pure, and unblemished, possessing an overwhelming luminosity that is unmistakable and powerful, illuminating all around her. This suggests a beauty that is not only visible but also penetrates and clarifies, devoid of any imperfection.
  • "and terrible as an army with banners?": This final comparison introduces a powerful and seemingly contrasting element, culminating the description. "Terrible" (Hebrew: 'ayom) here signifies awe-inspiring or formidable, rather than frightful in a negative sense. The image of "an army with banners" signifies an organized, disciplined, and powerful force advancing with its standards proudly displayed. This speaks to her majestic presence, her undeniable dignity, and the profound respect and admiration she commands. Her beauty is not merely passive; it possesses an active, compelling strength that is both impressive and imposing, like a victorious army marching with its ensigns held high, inspiring reverence and recognition of her powerful character.

Literary Devices

Song of Solomon 6:10 is exceptionally rich in Simile, employing direct comparisons using "as" to describe the Shulamite's attributes: "as the morning," "as the moon," "as the sun," and "as an army with banners." This series of similes creates a powerful cumulative effect, building from gentle, emerging radiance to overwhelming brilliance and finally to formidable majesty. The verse also utilizes a Rhetorical Question ("Who is she?") at its outset, immediately engaging the audience and emphasizing the Shulamite's unparalleled uniqueness and the profound wonder she inspires. The deliberate progression of celestial imagery from "morning" to "moon" to "sun" exemplifies Climax or Ascending Scale, indicating an increasing intensity and luminosity of her beauty and presence. Finally, the striking juxtaposition of soft, celestial beauty with the powerful, military image of "terrible as an army with banners" is a profound example of Paradox or Juxtaposition, highlighting the multifaceted nature of her beauty, which encompasses both delicate grace and formidable strength, inspiring both tender admiration and profound awe.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse, while ostensibly celebrating human beauty and love within the Song of Solomon, carries profound theological implications, particularly when understood through the allegorical lens often applied to this book, where it is seen as a depiction of Christ's love for His Church or God's love for Israel. The progression from morning to moon to sun can be seen as reflecting the increasing revelation of God's glory and the Church's growing radiance as it reflects Christ's light in the world. The "terrible as an army with banners" imagery, far from being negative, points to the Church's spiritual authority, its unified strength in Christ, and its awe-inspiring presence against the forces of darkness. This spiritual beauty is not merely aesthetic but dynamic, active, and powerful, representing the Church's purity, clarity of witness, and formidable stand for truth in the world. It is a beauty that commands respect and inspires awe, not through worldly power, but through divine empowerment and unwavering faithfulness, making her a glorious Bride prepared for her Groom.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Song of Solomon 6:10 invites us to consider the profound and multifaceted nature of true beauty, extending far beyond superficial appearance. It challenges us to recognize and cultivate an inner radiance that emanates from purity, strength, and devotion. For individuals, this verse encourages a pursuit of character that is both gentle and strong, clear in conviction, and awe-inspiring in its integrity. It reminds us that our true impact comes not just from what is seen, but from the spiritual depth and unwavering commitment we embody. We are called to "look forth as the morning," bringing freshness and hope into our spheres of influence; to be "fair as the moon," reflecting a gentle, serene beauty; and "clear as the sun," transparent in our faith and unblemished in our witness. For communities, especially the Church, it serves as a powerful reminder of our calling to be a radiant, pure, and formidable presence in the world—not through worldly might or intimidation, but through the compelling light of Christ and the unified witness of His people, marching forward with the banners of truth and love. This beauty is active, transformative, and commands respect, drawing others to the source of its splendor.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what ways does my life "look forth as the morning," radiating freshness, hope, and newness in my daily interactions?
  • How can I cultivate a "fair as the moon" quality of gentle, reflective beauty, peace, and grace in my relationships and demeanor?
  • What does it mean for my faith and character to be "clear as the sun," transparent, unblemished, and brilliantly reflecting Christ's light?
  • How can I embody a spiritual presence that is "terrible as an army with banners," inspiring awe and respect for the truth and power of God I represent, rather than fear?
  • How does this verse challenge my understanding of beauty, moving beyond the superficial to embrace inner strength, spiritual impact, and a compelling witness?

FAQ

What does "terrible as an army with banners" truly mean in this context?

Answer: The phrase "terrible as an army with banners" does not imply a negative or frightening terror in the modern sense. Instead, the Hebrew word for "terrible" ('ayom) conveys a sense of awe-inspiring, formidable, or majestic power. It describes something that evokes profound respect, wonder, and even a sense of reverential dread in its grandeur and might, rather than simple fear. When applied to the Shulamite, it highlights her commanding presence, dignity, and the profound impact she has on those who behold her. Like a well-ordered army advancing with its standards (banners) proudly displayed, she possesses an undeniable strength, unity, and an imposing, majestic authority that inspires reverence. This is similar to how God's majesty is described as "terrible" in passages like Psalm 68:35, signifying His overwhelming power and holiness that inspires awe.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Song of Solomon 6:10, when interpreted allegorically as a profound picture of Christ and His Church, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the radiant and powerful nature of the Body of Christ. The Church, as the Bride of Christ, is described as "looking forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun," because her true beauty is not inherent but a direct reflection of Christ's own glory. Just as the moon reflects the sun's light, the Church reflects the light of her Lord, being progressively transformed "from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 3:18). This purity and clarity are a direct result of Christ's redemptive work, who "loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish" (Ephesians 5:25-27). Furthermore, the description "terrible as an army with banners" speaks powerfully to the spiritual authority and formidable presence of the Church, empowered by Christ. It is not a worldly power, but a spiritual might that stands against the gates of hell (Matthew 16:18), marching forth with the banners of truth, love, and the Gospel. This awe-inspiring quality is rooted in Christ's decisive victory over sin, death, and all principalities and powers (Colossians 2:15), making the Church a formidable force, not to be feared by the righteous, but by the spiritual adversaries who oppose the Kingdom of God.

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Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.
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Augustine of HippoAD 430
LETTER 199:39
The church is the sun and the moon and the stars, to which it was said, “Fair as the moon, bright as the sun.” By it our Joseph is adored in this world as in Egypt, when he is raised from humble to high estate.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 6
“As beautiful as the special moon.” The experts in these matters say the moon gets its light from the sun’s rays and gets partial light when a small part of it faces the sun. When it is directly opposite and is in full view of the sun, it is completely lit up as though reflecting its face like a kind of mirror and leaving no part of its bulk unlit. The church of Christ likewise, therefore, the congregation of the souls made perfect in virtue, “with unveiled face seeing the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror,” in the words of blessed Paul, “is being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another, as a work of the Lord, the Spirit.” And it becomes so completely luminous as to resemble a moon, and a “special moon,” that is, full moon.
Theodoret of CyrusAD 458
COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 6
The bride, however, is not only “like a special moon,” but also she will shine in the future life “like a sun,” astounding all with its brightness. They will marvel not only at her light but also at her orderliness. There is nothing disordered about the Lord’s bride, nothing undetermined; she gives practical directions like a kind of plumb line, and regulates her own life by use of norm and rule.
AponiusAD 500
EXPOSITION OF SONG OF SONGS 9:30
By clinging continually to God the Word, she is made wholly on fire, like a burning coal. Also like a burning coal among a number of dead coals, when joined to the others, she ignites them all. Thus, in the midst of the souls of the dead [destined] for eternal life, she alone, the singular chosen one, vivifies all souls who believe in her, makes them like herself, and draws them to her beauty. Nevertheless, uniquely splendid like the moon, perfect in heaven among the stars, she in their midst is proven to glow with everlasting beauty more than all others. Chosen like the sun in paternal majesty among all the powers of the heavenly hosts, she is proclaimed as one to be admired by all, as the following verse teaches: “The maidens saw her and called her most blessed; queens and concubines also praised her.”
CassiodorusAD 585
You are rightly compared with this figure since you raise your precious head over all races, and you transmit the souls of the just like resplendent stars to the kingdom above. You are a pyramid full of heavenly corn, the blessed gathering of saintly people from diverse nations, the shining assembly of bright minds, a structure that cannot be dismantled since it is fashioned from living stones, the eternal happiness of all who are blessed, brighter than the sun, whiter than snow, without spot or wrinkle. Of you it is written in the Song of Songs: “Who is she that comes forth as the morning rising, fair as the moon, bright as the sun, terrible as an army set in array?” - "Exposition of the Psalms, Preface 17"
CassiodorusAD 585
EXPOSITION OF THE PSALMS, PREFACE 17
You are properly compared to this figure since you raise up your precious head from all the nations, and you conduct the souls of the just, like exceptional lights to the kingdom above. You are a pyramid filled with heavenly corn, the blessed gathering of saints from many nations, a bright assembly of clear minds, an indestructible building made of living stones, the eternal happiness of all the blessed, brighter than the sun, whiter than snow, without stain, without wrinkle. It is written about you in Song of Songs: “Who is she who comes forth, rising like the dawn, beautiful as the moon, as exceptional as the sun, terrible as an army arrayed for battle?”
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
Who is this that comes forth, etc. Therefore, this Synagogue, converted to the faith of Christ, speaks, marveling at the Church being exalted by divine grace so much that it cannot be overcome by any powers of the worldly empire, even though it is very humble. "Who comes forth," it says, because it did not stand in one place, did not appear for a short time, but extended its faith and fame over the whole world, and throughout the ages of the passing world, it does not cease striving for the crown of eternal life. It comes forth, however, as the dawn rising, because the rise of true light in it, after the darkness of ignorance, is shown far to the world, as its heralds are admonishing and saying that the night has passed, but the day has approached. Let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, and so on (Rom. XIII).
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
Beautiful as the moon, chosen as the sun, etc. Beautiful as the moon, because illuminated by the Sun of righteousness, it passes through the night of this world, and floods it with the light of heavenly knowledge and evangelical way of life; chosen as the sun, because it receives the image of its same Creator and illuminator in itself, walking in all righteousness, holiness, and truth, and truly giving thanks to Him, because the light of Your face, Lord, has been signed upon us (Psalm IV). Also beautiful as the moon, in the night of present life, where, with the varying state of times, now bright to the world, now despised and oppressed; now full of the brilliance of virtues, now disfigured by the vices of the wicked, it imitates in many ways the path of the moon increasing and waning. Chosen as the sun, in the day of future blessedness, where, with the state of eternity remaining, it will shine with the true vision of unchangeable light, fulfilled by His promise, in which it is said: The righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father (Cant. VI). Terrible as an army set in array, because it could never be restrained by any clouds of adversity, without showing in itself the beauty of both the moon and the sun: namely, the moon, in the laborious light of good action in the meantime; the sun, in the hope of eternal blessed recompense. And well terrible as an army set in array, because the more perfectly it places the order of virtues in itself, the more terrible it is to the aerial powers, and the whole Church and every faithful soul stands: for in certain good deeds, for example, vigils, fasts, manual labor, meditation on Scriptures, the word of preaching, modest silence, whoever does not know how to hold necessary order, errs. For these and many other such things, as they are often held usefully, so also they are sometimes healthfully interrupted for a time. But there are more excellent gifts of virtues, without which one cannot attain life, such as faith, hope, and charity; which ought therefore never by any consideration of time or place to be absent from the hearts of admonishing faithful. Therefore, whatever soul continually fortifies itself with more eminent virtues, and also diligently girds itself for the exercise of lesser ones, where place and hour are fitting, this is terrible to all adversaries as an army set wisely and firmly in order proceeds. This while a few followers of the Jews believe and worthily admire the struggles of the Church, she herself agrees with the one praising and immediately indicates the reason for her military preparations, responding with the voice of the doctors, that is, leaders of her spiritual militia.
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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