Song Of Solomon 6:2

KJV

My beloved is gone down into his garden, to the beds of spices, to feed in the gardens, and to gather lilies.

KJV (with Strong's)

My beloved {H1730} is gone down {H3381} into his garden {H1588}, to the beds {H6170} of spices {H1314}, to feed {H7462} in the gardens {H1588}, and to gather {H3950} lilies {H7799}.

Complete Jewish Bible

[She] My darling went down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to pasture his flock in the gardens and to gather lilies.

Berean Standard Bible

My beloved has gone down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to pasture his flock in the gardens and to gather lilies.

American Standard Version

My beloved is gone down to his garden, To the beds of spices, To feed in the gardens, and to gather lilies.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 6:2 presents the Shulamite's confident and intimate declaration regarding the whereabouts and activity of her beloved. In response to the Daughters of Jerusalem, she reveals her precise knowledge of his destination—his garden—and his purpose there: to tend to the beds of spices, to feed among the cultivated areas, and to gather the beautiful lilies. This verse underscores the restoration and deepening of their bond, portraying the beloved as actively engaged in a place of beauty, nourishment, and care, reflecting the secure and joyful nature of their renewed communion and the profound understanding between the lovers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate and assured answer of the Shulamite to the Daughters of Jerusalem's eager query in [Song of Solomon 6:1](/song_of_solomon/6-1 "Song of Solomon 6:1 - Daughters of Jerusalem's Question"), "Whither is thy beloved gone, O thou fairest among women? whither is thy beloved turned aside? that we may seek him with thee." Her confident response marks a significant shift from her previous state of distress and frantic search for him after his withdrawal, as depicted in [Song of Solomon 5:6](/song_of_solomon/5-6 "Song of Solomon 5:6 - The Shulamite's Distress"). Now, she knows precisely where he is and what he is doing, highlighting the restoration and deepening of their connection following a period of separation. The setting in "his garden" is a recurring and highly symbolic motif throughout the Song of Solomon, often representing a place of beauty, delight, and profound intimacy between the lovers, as seen in [Song of Solomon 4:12](/song_of_solomon/4-12 "Song of Solomon 4:12 - The Enclosed Garden").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Gardens in the ancient Near East were highly prized possessions, often associated with wealth, beauty, and privacy. They were not merely utilitarian plots but carefully cultivated spaces for pleasure, reflection, and intimate gatherings. Such gardens would typically contain a variety of plants, including fragrant spices, fruit trees, and ornamental flowers like lilies. The act of "feeding" (tending or pasturing) and "gathering" (collecting or appreciating) within a garden reflects common agricultural and horticultural practices of the time, but within the context of the Song, these actions take on deeper symbolic meaning related to care, cultivation, and enjoyment. The presence of "beds of spices" (perfumed plants) further emphasizes the luxurious and delightful sensory experience associated with these private havens, underscoring the preciousness of the beloved's domain.
* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 6:2 contributes to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it powerfully conveys the theme of **Intimate Knowledge and Confidence** within the relationship. The Shulamite's ability to describe her beloved's precise location and activities demonstrates a deep, personal understanding and unwavering confidence in their bond, contrasting sharply with her earlier uncertainty. Secondly, the imagery of "his garden," "beds of spices," and "lilies" evokes the theme of **Beauty and Delight**, portraying a scene of exquisite natural splendor and sensory pleasure. The beloved is depicted in a place of cultivation and aesthetic appreciation, reflecting his character and the joy he brings. Thirdly, the actions "to feed in the gardens" and "to gather lilies" highlight the theme of **Nourishment and Care**. These phrases suggest a purpose of sustenance, tending, and appreciating the produce of the garden, symbolizing the active care, cherishing, and cultivation within the relationship. Finally, the emphasis on "his garden" reinforces the theme of **Possession and Belonging**, underscoring the beloved's domain and sphere of activity, to which the Shulamite feels a strong sense of connection and security, echoing the mutual belonging expressed in [Song of Solomon 2:16](/song_of_solomon/2-16 "Song of Solomon 2:16 - My Beloved is Mine, and I Am His").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Beloved (Hebrew, _dôwd'_):** From an unused root meaning properly, "to boil," which figuratively implies "to love." This term signifies a deep, passionate affection, often used for a lover or friend. In the Song of Solomon, "beloved" is the primary term of endearment for the male protagonist, emphasizing the intense emotional and romantic bond between the two characters. Its usage here highlights the Shulamite's personal and affectionate connection to the one she speaks of, indicating a profound and cherished relationship.
* **Garden (Hebrew, _gan'_):** Derived from the root "gānan," meaning "to fence" or "to protect," indicating an enclosed or protected space. In biblical literature, a garden often symbolizes a place of beauty, fertility, and intimacy. In the Song of Solomon, the garden motif is central, frequently representing the beloved herself (as in [Song of Solomon 4:12](/song_of_solomon/4-12 "Song of Solomon 4:12 - The Enclosed Garden")) or the private, sacred space of the lovers' relationship. Here, it is "his garden," signifying his domain and a place of his activity and delight.
* **Feed (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** A primitive root meaning "to tend a flock," "to pasture it," or "to graze." By extension, it can mean "to rule" or "to associate with as a friend." In this context, it suggests the beloved is not merely present but actively engaged in tending, nourishing, and enjoying the produce of his garden. It implies a purposeful, caring interaction with the environment, akin to a shepherd tending his flock, ensuring their well-being and finding satisfaction in their flourishing. This active care underscores his commitment and delight in his cultivated space.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My beloved is gone down into his garden":** This clause establishes the Shulamite's confident knowledge of her beloved's whereabouts and intent. The possessive "his garden" emphasizes his ownership and the personal nature of this space, indicating a place of his domain and cherished activity. The phrase "gone down" often denotes movement from a higher to a lower elevation, but here it more broadly indicates a purposeful journey to a specific, often private or secluded, location, implying a deliberate and known destination.
* **"to the beds of spices":** This specifies a particular, highly valued and fragrant part of the garden. "Beds of spices" refers to cultivated plots of aromatic plants, indicating a place of exquisite beauty, rich aroma, and perhaps a source of valuable commodities. It highlights the luxurious and delightful sensory experience associated with the beloved's presence and activity, suggesting a place of pleasure and rich sensory engagement.
* **"to feed in the gardens":** This phrase describes the beloved's primary activity. "To feed" (as analyzed above) implies tending, pasturing, or nourishing. In the context of a garden, it suggests he is actively caring for the plants, enjoying their produce, or perhaps even finding sustenance or refreshment for himself within this cultivated space. The use of the plural "gardens" might refer to various sections within his larger garden estate or generally to his cultivated grounds, emphasizing the breadth of his care and enjoyment.
* **"and to gather lilies":** This second purpose of his visit adds a layer of appreciation and selection. Lilies are often associated with purity, beauty, and delicate splendor in biblical poetry. The act of "gathering" implies careful selection, appreciation, and perhaps bringing forth the choicest blossoms. This action symbolizes his aesthetic enjoyment, his valuing of beauty, and possibly his intention to present these beautiful flowers, perhaps to the Shulamite herself, signifying his admiration and affection.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 6:2 is rich in **Imagery**, appealing strongly to the senses. The "garden," "beds of spices," and "lilies" evoke vivid visual and olfactory sensations, creating a picture of lush beauty and fragrant delight. The beloved's actions of "feeding" and "gathering" add dynamic visual elements, illustrating his purposeful engagement. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the "garden" representing not only a physical place but also the intimate relationship between the lovers, a place of cultivation, growth, and shared joy. The "spices" symbolize the pleasantness, richness, and desirability of this relationship, while "lilies" represent purity, beauty, and cherished value. The entire verse functions as a **Metaphor** for the beloved's attentive and nurturing character, and by extension, the ideal qualities of a loving relationship characterized by care, appreciation, and confident intimacy, reflecting the mutual delight and secure bond between the two protagonists.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while deeply rooted in human romantic love, offers profound theological insights into the nature of divine relationship. Just as the Shulamite confidently knows her beloved's whereabouts and purpose, so too can believers cultivate an intimate knowledge of God's presence and activity in their lives. The imagery of the beloved tending his garden, nourishing and gathering its beautiful elements, can be seen as a metaphor for God's active care for His people, the "garden" of His church. He is not a distant deity, but one who is intimately involved in cultivating, sustaining, and delighting in His creation and His redeemed. This passage speaks to the security and peace found in knowing God's purposeful presence, reminding us that He is always at work, tending to His spiritual garden and cherishing those He has called, ensuring their flourishing and beauty.

* [Genesis 2:8](/genesis/2-8 "The Garden of Eden")
* [Isaiah 5:1-7](/isaiah/5-1-7 "The Song of the Vineyard")
* [John 15:1-2](/john/15-1-2 "Jesus, the True Vine")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 6:2 invites us to reflect on the nature of our spiritual relationship with God. The Shulamite's confident knowledge of her beloved's location and purpose challenges us to move beyond a searching, uncertain faith to a confident, intimate understanding of Christ's presence and work in our lives. Just as the beloved is actively engaged in tending his garden, so too is our Heavenly Beloved constantly at work in the "garden" of our souls and the collective "garden" of His church. This verse encourages us to find peace and delight in His purposeful activity, trusting that He is nourishing, cultivating, and gathering us, His precious lilies. It reminds us that spiritual growth and beauty are outcomes of His diligent care, and our role is to rest in His presence and allow Him to work. When we know where our Beloved is and what He is doing, our hearts can be at peace, filled with confident assurance and joy, leading to a deeper and more secure walk with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I currently experience a confident, intimate knowledge of Christ's presence and activity in my life, similar to the Shulamite's knowledge of her beloved?**
* **How does the imagery of Christ "feeding in the gardens" and "gathering lilies" speak to His care for me personally and for the church corporately?**
* **What "spices" or "lilies" (qualities, gifts, or aspects of beauty) might Christ be cultivating or cherishing in my life right now?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of peace and delight in simply knowing where my Beloved is and trusting in His purposeful work?**

### FAQ

**What does the garden symbolize in Song of Solomon?**

Answer: In the Song of Solomon, the garden is a rich and multifaceted symbol. Primarily, it represents a place of beauty, fertility, and profound intimacy between the lovers. It is often a metaphor for the beloved herself, as seen in [Song of Solomon 4:12](/song_of_solomon/4-12 "Song of Solomon 4:12 - The Enclosed Garden"), where she is called an "enclosed garden" and a "fountain sealed." It also symbolizes the private, sacred space of their love, a place where they can share delight, nourishment, and mutual appreciation, free from external intrusion. In Song of Solomon 6:2, it is "his garden," indicating the beloved's domain and sphere of purposeful activity, emphasizing his ownership and care.

**What is the significance of "feeding" and "gathering lilies" in this verse?**

Answer: The actions of "feeding in the gardens" and "gathering lilies" highlight the beloved's active engagement and tender care. "Feeding" (Hebrew _râʻâh'_) suggests tending, pasturing, or nourishing the plants, implying that the beloved is actively cultivating and sustaining the beauty and life within his garden. It speaks to his role as a provider and caretaker, ensuring the flourishing of his cherished space. "Gathering lilies" implies a careful selection and appreciation of beauty. Lilies, often symbols of purity and splendor, are cherished. This act suggests the beloved finds delight in the most beautiful and delicate aspects of his garden, perhaps even collecting them to present to his beloved, symbolizing his admiration for her beauty and value. Both actions underscore his purposeful and loving interaction with his cherished space.

**How does this verse relate to the Shulamite's previous state of distress?**

Answer: Song of Solomon 6:2 marks a significant turning point from the Shulamite's previous state of distress and anxious searching described in [Song of Solomon 5:6-8](/song_of_solomon/5-6-8 "Song of Solomon 5:6-8 - The Shulamite's Search"). After her beloved had withdrawn and she fruitlessly sought him through the city, this verse demonstrates a complete restoration of confidence and intimate knowledge. She no longer needs to ask or search; she knows precisely where he is and what he is doing. This shift signifies a deepening of trust, a renewed sense of security, and a mature understanding of their bond, illustrating the cyclical nature of love, separation, and reunion within the Song, culminating in a confident and secure relationship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 6:2 finds a profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the relationship between Christ and His Church. Just as the Shulamite's beloved descends into his garden to tend and gather, so too does Christ, our ultimate Bridegroom, actively engage with His "garden"—His people, the Church. He is not a distant, passive Lord, but one who has "gone down" from heaven to earth, entering into our human experience to cultivate and nourish us. He "feeds in the gardens" by providing spiritual sustenance through His Word and Spirit, pastoring His flock with tender care, as He promised to be the [Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd"). He "gathers lilies," lovingly drawing His chosen ones to Himself, appreciating their beauty and purity, and preparing them for eternal communion. This imagery beautifully portrays Christ's ongoing work of sanctification and love, where He continually tends to His Church, ensuring her growth, delighting in her beauty, and ultimately gathering her to Himself, as described in [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church"), where He cleanses and sanctifies the Church to present her to Himself as a radiant bride, without blemish or wrinkle.

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 5:13

His cheeks [are] as a bed of spices, [as] sweet flowers: his lips [like] lilies, dropping sweet smelling myrrh.

Philippians 1:21

¶ For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.

Philippians 1:23

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Matthew 28:20

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Isaiah 57:1

¶ The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth [it] to heart: and merciful men [are] taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil [to come].

Song Of Solomon 1:7

¶ Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest [thy flock] to rest at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?

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.