Song Of Solomon 6:13

KJV

Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return, that we may look upon thee. What will ye see in the Shulamite? As it were the company of two armies.

KJV (with Strong's)

Return {H7725}, return {H7725}, O Shulamite {H7759}; return {H7725}, return {H7725}, that we may look {H2372} upon thee. What will ye see {H2372} in the Shulamite {H7759}? As it were the company {H4246} of two armies {H4264}.

Complete Jewish Bible

[Chorus] Come back, come back, girl from Shulam! Come back, come back to where we can see you! Why are you looking at the girl from Shulam as if she were dancing for two army camps?

Berean Standard Bible

Come back, come back, O Shulammite! Come back, come back, that we may gaze upon you. Why do you look at the Shulammite, as on the dance of Mahanaim?

American Standard Version

Return, return, O Shulammite; Return, return, that we may look upon thee. Why will ye look upon the Shulammite, As upon the dance of Mahanaim?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 6:13 presents a captivating scene where the Shulamite, the beloved, is called to "return" by onlookers, likely the daughters of Jerusalem, who are enthralled by her presence and desire to gaze upon her. Her response, a rhetorical question, prompts their enigmatic description of her as "the company of two armies," a phrase rich with interpretive possibilities, suggesting a beauty that is not only graceful and alluring but also majestic, awe-inspiring, and perhaps even formidable. This verse serves as a pivotal moment, highlighting the profound admiration she inspires and hinting at a deeper, multifaceted spiritual significance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a section (Song of Solomon 6:4-10) where the King, the beloved, has been lavishly praising the Shulamite's beauty, comparing her to Tirzah, Jerusalem, and an army with banners, and extolling her virtues above all others. The immediate preceding verses (Song of Solomon 6:11-12) describe the Shulamite's journey into the garden to observe the blossoming plants, a moment of introspection or quiet contemplation, before she is suddenly caught up in a whirlwind of events, perhaps a chariot ride, that brings her back into public view. Verse 13 then marks a dramatic shift, as the focus moves from the King's private adoration to the public's fervent desire to behold her, setting the stage for her enigmatic comparison.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Song of Solomon reflects ancient Near Eastern wedding customs and courtly love poetry, where the beauty of the bride was a central theme. The setting is likely Jerusalem or a royal garden, emphasizing the opulence and grandeur associated with Solomon's reign. The phrase "company of two armies" (or "dance of Mahanaim") is particularly resonant. Mahanaim was a geographical location (as seen in [Genesis 32:2](/genesis/32-2 "Genesis 32:2 - Jacob Encounters Angels at Mahanaim") and [2 Samuel 2:29](/2_samuel/2-29 "2 Samuel 2:29 - Abner's Retreat to Mahanaim")) known for Jacob's encounter with angels and later as a strategic military outpost. In the cultural context, it may refer to a specific, well-known processional or ritual dance, perhaps one performed by two groups or camps, known for its stately, powerful, and captivating movements, thus evoking a sense of majestic beauty rather than literal military might.
* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 6:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book. It powerfully reinforces the theme of **captivating beauty and mutual admiration**, as the Shulamite's allure is so profound that it draws a collective, urgent call from onlookers. The enigmatic comparison to "the company of two armies" introduces the theme of **majesty and formidable presence**, suggesting that her beauty is not merely delicate but also strong, awe-inspiring, and commanding. This aligns with the King's earlier descriptions of her as "awesome as an army with banners" ([Song of Solomon 6:4](/song_of_solomon/6-4 "Song of Solomon 6:4 - The King's Praise of the Shulamite")). Furthermore, for those who interpret the Song allegorically, this verse deepens the theme of the **Church's spiritual glory and power**, portraying the Bride of Christ as possessing a radiant, victorious presence that is both beautiful and spiritually potent, a reflection of her beloved's own glory, as seen in passages like [Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Glorious Church").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Return (Hebrew, _shûwb'_ H7725):** This primitive root signifies "to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively." Its repetition ("Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return") emphasizes the fervent, almost desperate plea of the onlookers. It conveys an intense desire for the Shulamite to remain or reappear, indicating her captivating presence and the profound admiration she evokes. The urgency of the call highlights her unique and compelling allure.
* **Company (Hebrew, _mᵉchôlâh'_ H4246):** This feminine noun, derived from a root meaning "to dance," refers to "a dance" or "company (of dancers)." In this context, it strongly suggests a processional or stately dance. When combined with "armies," it implies a coordinated, perhaps ritualistic, movement that is both graceful and powerful, contributing to the majestic and awe-inspiring quality of the Shulamite's appearance rather than a literal military formation. It points to a beauty that is dynamic and compelling.
* **Armies (Hebrew, _machăneh'_ H4264):** Derived from a root meaning "to encamp," this noun refers to "an encampment (of travelers or troops)," and by extension, "an army." While it can denote literal soldiers, the Strong's data explicitly includes figurative uses for "dancers, angels, cattle, locusts, stars." In the context of the Shulamite's beauty, its pairing with `mᵉchôlâh` (company/dance) suggests a powerful, organized, and formidable presence, akin to the disciplined and impressive display of an army or a grand procession. It elevates her beauty beyond mere prettiness to something majestic and awe-inspiring.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return":** This quadruple repetition of the imperative "return" underscores the intense longing and admiration of the speakers, likely the "daughters of Jerusalem" or other onlookers. It conveys a sense of urgency and profound desire for the Shulamite to remain visible, captivated by her presence and beauty.
* **"that we may look upon thee.":** This clause reveals the explicit purpose of their plea: to gaze upon her. The verb "look" (Hebrew, _châzâh_) implies not just a casual glance but a sustained, contemplative beholding, often with pleasure or wonder, suggesting the profound impact of her beauty on those who see her.
* **"What will ye see in the Shulamite?":** This is the Shulamite's humble or perhaps rhetorical response. It could express surprise at their intense admiration, or it could be an invitation for them to articulate what exactly they find so captivating about her, prompting their subsequent enigmatic description.
* **"As it were the company of two armies.":** This is the most enigmatic and debated phrase. The comparison uses a simile ("As it were"). The Hebrew "Mahanaim" (translated "company of two armies" or "two camps") likely refers to a specific, majestic dance or procession known for its ordered, powerful, and captivating movements, perhaps involving two groups. This simile suggests a beauty that is not only graceful and alluring but also strong, awe-inspiring, formidable, and commanding, evoking a sense of wonder and majesty.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 6:13 is rich with literary artistry. The most striking device is **Repetition**, with the word "Return" appearing four times, creating a rhythmic, almost chant-like effect that emphasizes the urgency and collective desire of the onlookers. This anaphora draws immediate attention to the Shulamite's captivating presence. The Shulamite's question, "What will ye see in the Shulamite?", functions as a **Rhetorical Question**, inviting the speakers to articulate their perception of her, which then leads to the profound and mysterious description. The pivotal literary device is the **Simile** (or perhaps a **Metaphor** if interpreted as a direct identification with the dance of Mahanaim) comparing the Shulamite to "the company of two armies." This comparison is a profound **Enigma** or **Mystery**, as its precise meaning has been debated for centuries. It evokes powerful imagery of order, strength, and perhaps a captivating, processional dance, elevating her beauty beyond the merely aesthetic to something majestic and awe-inspiring. The juxtaposition of the beloved's humble question with the grand, almost military, description creates a powerful and memorable image.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 6:13, particularly through its enigmatic comparison, offers profound theological insights into the nature of true beauty and spiritual authority. If the Shulamite represents the Church or the individual believer, her captivating presence, likened to "the company of two armies," speaks to the multifaceted glory of God's people. This beauty is not superficial but emanates from an inner radiance, a spiritual transformation that reflects the character of Christ. Furthermore, the "two armies" imagery can symbolize the Church's dual nature: her peaceful, beloved status as the Bride, and her powerful, formidable presence as an army marching forth in spiritual warfare, equipped with divine strength and authority. This verse thus encourages believers to live lives that are not only beautiful in holiness but also powerful in witness, drawing others to behold the glory of God.

* [Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Glorious Church")
* [2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into Christ's Image")
* [Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship in Heaven")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 6:13 invites us to consider the profound impact of a life lived in intimacy with Christ. The Shulamite's beauty was so compelling that it drew an urgent, repeated call for her to be seen. For believers, this challenges us to reflect a spiritual radiance that captivates and draws others to the source of our beauty—Jesus Christ. Our lives, transformed by His grace, should bear a compelling witness, not through self-promotion, but through the quiet yet powerful display of His character within us. The enigmatic comparison to "two armies" reminds us that Christian beauty is not merely passive or delicate; it is also strong, purposeful, and majestic. It speaks to the spiritual authority and resilience that God grants His people, enabling us to stand firm in faith and to engage in spiritual battles with divine power. This verse calls us to embrace both the grace and the strength inherent in our identity in Christ, living in such a way that the world cannot help but "look upon" the glory of God reflected in us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways does your life "captivate" others, drawing them to consider the source of your joy and peace?**
* **How do you reconcile the idea of spiritual beauty with the concept of spiritual strength or "armies"?**
* **What aspects of your character or spiritual walk might be described as "majestic" or "awe-inspiring" in a godly sense?**
* **How can the Church, as the Bride of Christ, better embody the "company of two armies" in both its beauty and its spiritual authority in the world today?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "daughters of Jerusalem" and why do they call for the Shulamite to return?**

Answer: The "daughters of Jerusalem" are a recurring chorus throughout the Song of Solomon, representing the women of the royal court or the city's inhabitants. They serve as a narrative device, often interacting with the Shulamite, asking questions, or expressing admiration. In [Song of Solomon 6:13](/song_of_solomon/6-13 "Song of Solomon 6:13 - The Call to the Shulamite"), their repeated call for the Shulamite to "return, return" signifies their profound admiration and fascination with her beauty and presence. They are captivated and desire to gaze upon her, highlighting her extraordinary allure and the impact she has on those around her. Their call emphasizes the Shulamite's unique radiance.

**What is the meaning of "the company of two armies" in this verse?**

Answer: This is one of the most debated and enigmatic phrases in the Song of Solomon. The Hebrew phrase is "k'macholath machanaim," which literally translates to "as the dance of two camps" or "as the dance of Mahanaim." Mahanaim was a specific geographical location (as seen in [Genesis 32:2](/genesis/32-2 "Genesis 32:2 - Jacob Encounters Angels at Mahanaim")) associated with angels and military encampments. Most scholars interpret this not as a literal military formation, but as a reference to a well-known, majestic, or ceremonial dance of that era, possibly a processional dance performed by two groups or a dance associated with the place Mahanaim. This interpretation suggests a beauty that is not merely delicate but also powerful, stately, organized, and awe-inspiring, evoking a sense of wonder and majesty, much like a grand, disciplined procession or a powerful, graceful performance. It speaks to a formidable and captivating presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 6:13 finds its ultimate and richest fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, and in His Bride, the Church. The Shulamite's captivating beauty, which draws the urgent call to "return" and the awe-struck comparison to "the company of two armies," profoundly foreshadows the unparalleled glory and irresistible allure of Christ Himself. He is the one whose beauty is perfect, whose presence is utterly captivating, and who draws all people to Himself ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Draws All People")). The "return" can be seen as humanity's call to repentance and turning to Christ, that we might "look upon" Him and be transformed by His glory ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into Christ's Image")). Furthermore, as the Church is the Bride of Christ, her beauty and majesty are derived directly from Him. The Church, as Christ's body, is called to reflect His radiance to the world, a radiance that is both spiritually pure and powerfully authoritative. The "company of two armies" can thus symbolize the Church's dual identity: a people beloved and at peace with God, yet also a spiritual army, marching forth with divine power and authority against the forces of darkness ([Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10-18 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Armor of God")). Just as the Shulamite's presence commanded attention, the Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is to display the multifaceted glory of Christ—His grace, His truth, His holiness, and His conquering power—to a watching world, drawing them to behold the ultimate Beauty and Victor, Jesus Christ, who has triumphed over all ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Evil")).

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

Genesis 32:2

And when Jacob saw them, he said, This [is] God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim.

Galatians 5:17

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

Romans 3:29

[Is he] the God of the Jews only? [is he] not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

2 Samuel 17:24

Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him.

Song Of Solomon 2:14

¶ O my dove, [that art] in the clefts of the rock, in the secret [places] of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet [is] thy voice, and thy countenance [is] comely.

Psalms 76:2

In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.

2 Thessalonians 1:10

When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.