Song of Solomon 6:3

Translation
King James Version
I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine: he feedeth among the lilies.
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
I am my beloved's H1730, and my beloved H1730 is mine: he feedeth H7462 among the lilies H7799.
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
I belong to the man I love, and he belongs to me; he pastures his flock among the lilies.
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
I belong to my beloved and he belongs to me; he pastures his flock among the lilies.
Ask
American Standard Version
I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine: He feedeth his flock among the lilies.
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine. He browses among the lilies,
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou art beautifull, my loue, as Tirzah, comely as Ierusale, terrible as an army with baners.
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine, Who is delighting himself among the lilies.
Ask
See also
Song of Solomon 2:16Song of Solomon 7:10Hebrews 8:10Revelation 21:2Revelation 21:4
In the KJVVerse 17,618 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Song of Solomon 6:3 presents a profound and confident declaration of mutual belonging and unwavering devotion between the Shulamite woman and her beloved. It encapsulates the secure and reciprocal nature of their love, asserting her confident possession of him and his confident possession of her. The verse culminates with an idyllic and reassuring image of the beloved gently tending his flock amidst the lilies, symbolizing his peaceful presence, diligent care, and the serene environment in which he operates, thereby reinforcing the deep peace and unshakeable assurance found within their sacred bond.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is spoken by the Shulamite woman as a direct and confident response to the "daughters of Jerusalem" who, in the preceding verses, had inquired about her beloved's whereabouts following a period of separation and intense longing described in Song of Solomon 5:6. Her emphatic declaration, "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine," serves as a powerful echo and amplification of an earlier, similar affirmation found in Song of Solomon 2:16. The strategic repetition of this core statement signifies a deepening and maturation of their relationship, moving from an initial blossoming affection to a settled, confident, and public affirmation of their exclusive and unbreakable bond. The subsequent description of him "feeding among the lilies" provides a serene and reassuring answer to the daughters' query, indicating his peaceful, purposeful, and present activity, thereby dispelling any lingering anxieties about his absence or safety.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israelite society, the institution of marriage and the centrality of family were paramount, often involving arranged unions. However, the Song of Solomon uniquely highlights the profound importance of mutual affection, personal devotion, and exclusive commitment within the marital covenant. The imagery of a shepherd tending his flock was deeply ingrained in the agrarian culture of the time, universally symbolizing diligent care, faithful provision, and gentle leadership. This metaphor would immediately evoke a sense of security and well-being. Lilies (Hebrew: shoshannim) were ubiquitous wildflowers in the region, frequently associated with exquisite beauty, pristine purity, and pleasantness, as evidenced by their mention in Song of Solomon 2:1. The act of the beloved "feeding among the lilies" would conjure a vivid scene of tranquility, natural abundance, and the beloved's gentle engagement with nature, offering a stark contrast to any potential fears of danger or abandonment. This idyllic pastoral setting underscores the beloved's role as a tender provider and protector within an environment characterized by serenity and beauty.
  • Key Themes: Song of Solomon 6:3 powerfully articulates the foundational theme of mutual possession and belonging, where both parties willingly and completely commit themselves to the other, thereby establishing a secure, exclusive, and reciprocal bond. This declaration signifies a profound confidence and assurance within the relationship, transcending initial infatuation to settle into a deep, unwavering trust. The Shulamite's certainty regarding her beloved's location and activity ("he feedeth among the lilies") serves to underscore this theme of unshakeable confidence. Furthermore, the pastoral imagery and delight associated with the lilies convey overarching themes of beauty, purity, peace, and gentle, nurturing care. This imagery frequently connects to the broader biblical motif of divine care and provision, reminiscent of the comforting shepherd imagery found in Psalm 23:1-2. The verse, therefore, masterfully weaves together interconnected themes of exclusive and devoted love, unwavering trust, and the idyllic beauty of a relationship nurtured in an atmosphere of peace and abundant provision.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Beloved (Hebrew, dôwd', H1730): This term (H1730) originates from an unused root signifying "to boil," which figuratively extends to "to love." It denotes a deep, passionate affection, often translated as "lover" or "friend." In the context of Song of Solomon, it transcends a mere acquaintance, signifying an intimate, cherished, and exclusive partner. The repetition of "my beloved" within the verse powerfully emphasizes the personal, possessive, and profound nature of this affection, highlighting the depth of emotional connection.
  • Feedeth (Hebrew, râʻâh', H7462): Derived from the primitive root (H7462), meaning "to tend a flock," "to pasture it," or "to graze." This verb implies a gentle, nurturing, and providing activity. It suggests that the beloved is not idle but actively engaged in caring for his flock, an image that conveys responsibility, diligent provision, and a peaceful, purposeful presence. The root can also extend to "ruling" or "associating with as a friend," further enriching the idea of tender leadership and intimate companionship within the act of shepherding.
  • Lilies (Hebrew, shûwshan', H7799): This word (H7799) refers to a lily, likely named for its striking whiteness, symbolizing purity, exquisite beauty, and pleasantness. In the poetic landscape of the Song of Solomon, lilies frequently represent the inherent beauty of the beloved and the delightful, serene places where they meet. The beloved "feeding among the lilies" paints a vivid picture of him being situated in a place of natural beauty, tranquility, and perhaps even tending to things of inherent beauty, thereby reinforcing his gentle, appealing, and harmonious character.

Verse Breakdown

  • "I [am] my beloved's": This opening clause is a profound and unreserved declaration of personal surrender and complete belonging. It signifies that the Shulamite woman has given herself fully and exclusively to her beloved, identifying herself entirely with him. It is a statement of confident ownership, not in a demeaning or possessive sense, but within the context of loving devotion, intimate commitment, and joyful self-identification.
  • "and my beloved [is] mine": This second clause immediately establishes the profound and essential reciprocal nature of their relationship. Just as she belongs to him fully, he belongs to her with equal measure. This mutuality underscores the equality, balance, and shared possession that fundamentally defines their bond. It speaks to a secure, confident, and deeply satisfying relationship where both parties are fully invested in, committed to, and mutually possessive of each other.
  • "he feedeth among the lilies": This final clause provides a serene, reassuring, and idyllic image. It serves to answer any unspoken questions about the beloved's whereabouts or activities, portraying him as actively engaged in a peaceful, productive, and beautiful environment. The act of "feeding" (tending his flock) signifies his vital role as a provider and caretaker, while being "among the lilies" evokes a scene of pristine purity, natural beauty, and profound tranquility, reinforcing the idyllic, secure, and harmonious nature of their shared world and his gentle presence within it.

Literary Devices

Song of Solomon 6:3 is masterfully crafted with rich literary artistry. The most prominent device is Chiasmus, strikingly evident in the structure "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine" (A-B, B'-A'). This inverted parallelism powerfully emphasizes the reciprocal, balanced, and perfectly mutual nature of their possession, highlighting that their love is a two-way street of complete and equal devotion. Imagery is also central to the verse's impact, particularly in the evocative phrase "he feedeth among the lilies." This pastoral image conjures a vivid and serene scene of peace, natural beauty, and gentle care, appealing directly to the reader's visual and emotional senses. The lilies themselves function as potent Symbolism, representing purity, exquisite beauty, and delight, thereby enhancing the overwhelmingly positive and tranquil atmosphere of the beloved's presence and activities. The skillful combination of these devices transforms the verse from a mere declaration into a poetic painting of profound affection, secure belonging, and idyllic harmony.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Song of Solomon 6:3, while rooted deeply in the celebration of human romantic love and marriage, offers profound theological insights, particularly when viewed through an allegorical lens, a common interpretive tradition in both Jewish and Christian thought. The powerful declaration of mutual belonging ("I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine") beautifully prefigures the intimate and covenantal relationship between God and His people, and, most profoundly, between Christ and the Church. It speaks to the exclusive and devoted bond that God desires with humanity, a relationship characterized by His unwavering, sacrificial love and our complete, joyful surrender to Him. The unshakeable assurance found in the Shulamite's words mirrors the profound confidence believers can have in their relationship with God, knowing that He is utterly committed to them and provides for them in peace and beauty. The evocative image of the beloved "feeding among the lilies" can be seen as a tender metaphor for Christ's gentle and constant shepherding of His flock, leading them to spiritual nourishment, green pastures, and still waters, ensuring their spiritual well-being and security in His beautiful, life-giving presence.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Song of Solomon 6:3 provides a powerful and enduring blueprint for cultivating healthy, secure, and thriving relationships, whether in the context of marriage, family, or our spiritual walk. For married couples, it serves as a profound reminder of the foundational importance of mutual, exclusive, and confident belonging. It calls us to actively declare, embody, and live out our unwavering commitment to our spouse, finding deep delight and abiding peace in their presence, and resting in the knowledge that we are fully known, cherished, and securely loved. This verse encourages the cultivation of a secure attachment, free from the anxieties of doubt or insecurity, where both partners find their identity, joy, and purpose beautifully intertwined. Spiritually, this verse extends a compelling invitation to believers to enter into a deeper, more profound experience of their intimate union with Christ. Just as the Shulamite confidently asserts her belonging, we are called to rest in the unwavering and liberating truth that we are irrevocably Christ's, purchased by His precious blood, and He is eternally ours, our loving Shepherd, faithful Provider, and ultimate satisfaction. This profound assurance liberates us to live in a state of deep peace, trusting implicitly in His constant care and abundant provision, knowing that He is always tenderly tending to His people in places of beauty, grace, and spiritual nourishment.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the declaration "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine" challenge or affirm your understanding of commitment and security in your most significant relationships, particularly your marriage or closest friendships?
  • In what specific ways does the tender image of the beloved "feeding among the lilies" speak to your perception of God's character, His gentle care, and His constant presence in the beautiful and challenging seasons of your life?
  • Considering the profound devotion expressed in this verse, how can you intentionally cultivate a deeper sense of mutual belonging, unwavering trust, and confident assurance in your personal relationship with Jesus Christ this week?

FAQ

What is the significance of the phrase "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine"?

Answer: This phrase is a profoundly significant declaration of mutual, exclusive, and reciprocal love and possession. It signifies a complete and joyful giving of oneself to the other, coupled with an unshakeable, confident assurance of the other's dedication and commitment. It is a statement of secure belonging, where both parties are fully invested, deeply intertwined, and find their identity and joy in their shared bond. This mutual ownership is foundational to the deep intimacy, trust, and security depicted throughout the Song of Solomon, representing the pinnacle of romantic and covenantal commitment. Theologically, it is often paralleled with the covenant relationship between God and His people, beautifully expressed in passages like Jeremiah 30:22, where God declares His people to be His own, and they, in turn, acknowledge Him as their God.

Why does the verse mention the beloved "feeding among the lilies"?

Answer: The imagery of the beloved "feeding among the lilies" serves multiple rich purposes. Firstly, it provides a serene and reassuring answer to the "daughters of Jerusalem" about the beloved's whereabouts and activities, indicating he is engaged in a peaceful, productive, and purposeful endeavor, diligently tending his flock. Secondly, "lilies" (H7799) symbolize exquisite beauty, pristine purity, and delightful pleasantness, suggesting that the beloved is situated in a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment. This idyllic pastoral scene reinforces his gentle, caring, and providing nature, underscoring a sense of tranquility and security. It assures the Shulamite (and the reader) that her beloved is not in danger or absent, but actively engaged in a beautiful and purposeful endeavor, much like the Good Shepherd in Psalm 23:2 who leads His flock to green pastures and still waters.

Is Song of Solomon 6:3 only about human love, or does it have a spiritual meaning?

Answer: While Song of Solomon 6:3 is undeniably a profound celebration of human romantic love and the marital covenant, it has been widely interpreted allegorically in both Jewish and Christian traditions to convey deeper spiritual truths. In Jewish tradition, it often symbolizes the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. In Christian tradition, it is frequently understood as a beautiful allegory for the profound, intimate, and covenantal love between Christ and His Church, or between Christ and the individual believer. The mutual declaration of belonging ("I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine") beautifully illustrates the believer's secure union with Christ and Christ's unwavering, self-sacrificial commitment to His people, as powerfully described in Ephesians 5:25-27. The "feeding among the lilies" can then represent Christ's gentle, constant shepherding, His abundant provision, and the beauty and peace of His presence in the lives of His followers, leading them to spiritual nourishment and rest.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Song of Solomon 6:3 finds its ultimate, most profound, and eternally satisfying fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The mutual declaration, "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine," perfectly encapsulates the unbreakable covenantal union between Christ and His Church, and between Christ and every individual believer. Just as the Shulamite confidently asserts her belonging to her beloved, so too does the believer declare, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me; and the life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." This is a profound spiritual reality where our identity, righteousness, and hope are found securely in Him. Conversely, Christ's own declaration that "all that is mine is yours, and all that is yours is mine" (John 17:10) speaks to His complete ownership, tender care, and lavish provision for His redeemed. He is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep intimately, calls them by name, and selflessly lays down His life for them. The idyllic image of the beloved "feeding among the lilies" beautifully portrays Christ's gentle, constant, and faithful shepherding of His flock, leading them to spiritual nourishment, rest, and security. He is not distant or uncaring, but intimately present, tending to His people in places of beauty and peace, ensuring their provision and security until the glorious consummation of the "marriage of the Lamb" (Revelation 19:7-9), when His beloved Bride will forever dwell in His presence. Thus, this verse points to the secure, intimate, and eternally satisfying relationship believers have with their Savior, Jesus Christ.

Copy as
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.
Copy as
Leander of SevilleAD 601
HOMILY ON THE TRIUMPH OF THE CHURCH
So long as Christ wishes there to be one church of all nations, whoever is a stranger to the church is not considered a part of the body of Christ, even though he uses the name of Christian. That heresy which rejects the unity of the Catholic church is to him a concubine and not a wife, in that it loves Christ with an adulterous love, since Scripture says that there are actually two in one flesh, that is, Christ and the church, in which there is no third place for a harlot. “One is my friend, one is my bride, only daughter of her mother.” Of whom, likewise, the same church speaks, saying, “My lover belongs to me, and I to him.”
Leander of SevilleAD 601
THE TRAINING OF NUNS, PREFACE
He is, indeed, your true bridegroom. He is also your brother. He is likewise your friend. He is your inheritance. He is your reward. He is God and the Lord. You have in him a bridegroom to love: “For he is fair in beauty above the sons of men.” … He is a friend of whom you need not doubt, for he himself says, “You are my only lover.” You have in him the inheritance that you may embrace, for he is himself the portion of your inheritance. You have in him the reward that you may recognize, for his blood is your redemption. You have in him God by whom you may be ruled, the Lord to fear and honor.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
“I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine,” etc. I prepare a delightful pasture for my beloved in the beds of spices, that is, in the pure hearts of the faithful, and my beloved to me, who is fed among the holy desires of chaste minds, returns this in exchange for His grace by fulfilling the same desires of His faithful ones whom He has nurtured. He fulfills them by plucking them from this paradise of sacred pleasure and gathering them into the secret chambers of the heavenly mansions, where before His glory, with eternal immortality of flesh and spirit, they shine brightly with a dual aspect like lilies, that is, both golden and white, and as if spreading the sweet fragrance of their virtues throughout all the inhabitants of the eternal homeland. Thus far, the voice of the holy Church is heard, seeking and praising her Lord and desiring to see His face; but since He can never be absent from His lovers, but where two or three are gathered in His name, there He is in the midst of them, indeed even if one of His own is enclosed among lions, detained in the depths of the sea, or surrounded by the belly of a whale, if separated from other mortals, there He is with him. Therefore, His voice follows, declaring to those who search for Him and converse about Him that He was always present with them and heard what they spoke about, rewarding their devotion to Him with worthy praise, saying:
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.
Copy as

Continue studying Song of Solomon 6:3 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.