Song Of Solomon 6:4

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou art beautiful {H3303}, O my love {H7474}, as Tirzah {H8656}, comely {H5000} as Jerusalem {H3389}, terrible {H366} as an army with banners {H1713}.

Complete Jewish Bible

[He] You are as beautiful as Tirtzah, my love, as lovely as Yerushalayim, but formidable as an army marching under banners.

Berean Standard Bible

You are as beautiful, my darling, as Tirzah, as lovely as Jerusalem, as majestic as troops with banners.

American Standard Version

Thou art fair, O my love, as Tirzah, Comely as Jerusalem, Terrible as an army with banners.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 6:4 presents the King's fervent and multifaceted praise for his beloved, the Shulamite, declaring her beauty to be comparable to the renowned cities of Tirzah and Jerusalem, and her presence as awe-inspiring and formidable as an army arrayed with banners. This declaration underscores the depth of his admiration, recognizing not only her aesthetic appeal but also a powerful, majestic quality that commands respect and devotion. The verse captures the profound impact of her presence, portraying her as both delightful and powerfully captivating.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment in the King's renewed praise for the Shulamite, following her public and effusive description of his virtues in [Song of Solomon 5:10-16](/song_of_solomon/5-10 "Song of Solomon 5:10-16 - The Shulamite Praises the King"). Her eloquent praise, which had caused the "daughters of Jerusalem" to inquire about her beloved ([Song of Solomon 6:1](/song_of_solomon/6-1 "Song of Solomon 6:1 - Daughters of Jerusalem Inquire")), prompts the King's immediate and equally passionate response. His words in [Song of Solomon 6:4-10](/song_of_solomon/6-4 "Song of Solomon 6:4-10 - The King's Renewed Praise") serve to reaffirm his singular devotion and the unparalleled beauty he perceives in her, solidifying the reciprocal nature of their profound affection and admiration. The verse thus functions as a powerful declaration of his unwavering commitment and the unique place she holds in his heart.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The comparisons to Tirzah and Jerusalem are deeply rooted in the historical and cultural landscape of ancient Israel. Tirzah (H8656) was an ancient Canaanite city, later serving as the first capital of the northern kingdom of Israel after the division of the monarchy ([1 Kings 14:17](/1_kings/14-17 "1 Kings 14:17 - Tirzah as Capital")). It was renowned for its beauty, pleasantness, and fertile surroundings, often associated with royal residences and idyllic charm. Jerusalem (H3389), on the other hand, was the established capital of the united and later southern kingdom, revered as the City of David and the spiritual center housing the Temple ([Psalm 48:2](/psalm/48-2 "Psalm 48:2 - Jerusalem, City of God")). Its significance lay in its majesty, strength, and spiritual sanctity. By comparing his beloved to both Tirzah and Jerusalem, the King evokes a comprehensive image of beauty that encompasses both natural loveliness and dignified, regal splendor. The imagery of an "army with banners" (H1713, H8737) would have evoked a powerful, organized, and awe-inspiring sight, as ancient armies marched with distinctive banners or standards, signaling their strength, unity, and formidable presence.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Song of Solomon and biblical literature. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Multi-faceted Beauty**, demonstrating that true loveliness encompasses more than mere physical appearance, extending to an inner dignity and strength. The Shulamite's beauty is portrayed as comprehensive, embodying both the aesthetic delight of Tirzah and the majestic comeliness of Jerusalem. Secondly, the phrase "terrible as an army with banners" introduces the theme of **Awe-Inspiring Presence**. This is not a beauty that is merely pleasing, but one that commands respect, admiration, and even a sense of wonder, reflecting a powerful and captivating influence. This formidable quality speaks to her unique and irresistible impact on the King, much like the overwhelming sight of a disciplined army. Lastly, the verse subtly touches upon the theme of **Security and Strength** found in true love. Her beauty is not fragile but possesses a robust quality that perhaps deters rivals or solidifies her unassailable position in the King's affections, providing him with a profound sense of pride and powerful allegiance, echoing the secure foundation of a well-ordered kingdom as seen in [Psalm 122:3](/psalm/122-3 "Psalm 122:3 - Jerusalem, a City United").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **beautiful (Hebrew, _yâpheh'_):** From H3303, meaning beautiful (literally or figuratively); fair, goodly, pleasant. In this context, it describes the Shulamite's aesthetic appeal, suggesting a visual delight and inherent attractiveness that is pleasing to the eye and heart, akin to the renowned beauty of Tirzah.
* **terrible (Hebrew, _ʼâyôm'_):** From H366, meaning frightful; terrible. This word conveys a sense of being awesome, formidable, or inspiring dread/reverence. In the context of praise for a beloved, it signifies an overwhelming and magnificent quality, a powerful presence that commands awe and respect rather than fear, much like the majestic and unassailable presence of a well-disciplined army.
* **banners (Hebrew, _dâgal'_):** From H1713, a primitive root meaning to flaunt, i.e. raise a flag; figuratively, to be conspicuous; (set up, with) banners, chiefest. This word, appearing in the phrase "an army with banners" (H1713 H8737), emphasizes visibility, prominence, and the organized, imposing display of a military force. It suggests that the Shulamite's beauty and presence are not only powerful but also conspicuous and commanding, standing out with a distinct and impressive display of majesty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou art beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah":** The King begins with an intimate address, "O my love" (H7474, _raʻyâh'_), immediately establishing the deep affection and personal connection. He then compares her beauty (H3303, _yâpheh'_) to Tirzah (H8656), a city renowned for its pleasantness and aesthetic appeal. This clause emphasizes her delightful and charming physical beauty, a loveliness that is naturally pleasing and captivating.
* **"comely as Jerusalem":** Following the comparison to Tirzah, her "comeliness" (H5000, _nâʼveh'_, meaning suitable, beautiful, seemly) is likened to Jerusalem (H3389). This comparison elevates her beauty beyond mere aesthetics to include dignity, majesty, and a sense of regal splendor. Jerusalem, as the capital and spiritual center, represented strength, order, and a more profound, established beauty, suggesting that her presence carries a weighty and dignified grace.
* **"terrible as an army with banners":** This striking simile concludes the praise, describing her as "terrible" (H366, _ʼâyôm'_) like "an army with banners" (H1713, H8737). This does not imply fright in a negative sense, but rather an awe-inspiring, formidable, and magnificent quality. It conveys that her beauty and presence are overwhelmingly powerful, commanding respect and attention, and possessing an irresistible, captivating force, much like the impressive and unified display of a well-organized military force.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 6:4 is rich with **Simile**, using "as Tirzah," "as Jerusalem," and "as an army with banners" to draw vivid comparisons that illuminate the Shulamite's multi-faceted beauty. These similes elevate her loveliness by associating it with well-known symbols of aesthetic delight (Tirzah) and regal majesty (Jerusalem). The final simile, "terrible as an army with banners," employs **Hyperbole** to emphasize the overwhelming and awe-inspiring nature of her presence, pushing beyond mere beauty to convey a powerful, almost formidable impact. This phrase also functions as **Symbolism**, where the "army with banners" symbolizes not aggression, but rather the unified, disciplined, and magnificent display of strength, order, and captivating presence. The use of these devices collectively paints a picture of the Shulamite's beauty as comprehensive, ranging from delightful charm to majestic power, profoundly impacting the King.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The King's lavish praise for the Shulamite in Song of Solomon 6:4, depicting her as both beautiful and awe-inspiring, carries profound theological and thematic resonance, particularly when understood allegorically as Christ's love for His Church. Just as the Shulamite's beauty is seen as encompassing both delightful charm and formidable majesty, so too does Christ behold His Church. He sees her not merely for her outward appearance or human imperfections, but through the lens of His redeeming love, making her "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). The Church, though often seemingly weak in the eyes of the world, is viewed by God as a powerful, united force, "terrible as an army with banners," marching forth with the gospel message and standing firm against spiritual darkness. This verse underscores the divine perspective of beauty—a beauty rooted in holiness, unity, and a formidable spiritual presence that inspires awe in the heavenly realms and commands respect even from adversaries.

* [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")
* [2 Corinthians 10:4-5](/2_corinthians/10-4 "2 Corinthians 10:4-5 - Spiritual Warfare")
* [Revelation 19:7-8](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7-8 - The Bride of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 6:4 invites us to reflect on the nature of true beauty and strength, both in our personal relationships and in our identity as believers. Just as the King saw his beloved with eyes of profound admiration, recognizing her captivating charm and formidable presence, so too are we called to see ourselves and others through a lens of grace and appreciation. This verse challenges us to cultivate an inner beauty—a "comeliness" that radiates dignity, character, and spiritual strength, rather than merely focusing on fleeting external appearances. For the believer, understanding that we are seen by God as "beautiful as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners" can transform our self-perception, empowering us with confidence in our divine identity and purpose. It reminds us that our collective unity and devotion to Christ make us a powerful, awe-inspiring force in the world, capable of standing firm against spiritual opposition and shining brightly as a beacon of His truth. This perspective encourages us to live out our faith with boldness, knowing that our true strength lies in our alignment with God's will and our participation in His grand redemptive plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I perceive my own "beauty" or "worth," and how does this verse challenge or affirm those perceptions?**
* **How can I cultivate the kind of "comeliness" and "terrible" (awe-inspiring) presence that reflects Christ's character and power in my daily life?**
* **What does it mean for the Church, as the bride of Christ, to be "terrible as an army with banners" in today's world, and how can I contribute to that spiritual strength?**

### FAQ
**What does "terrible as an army with banners" mean in this context?**

Answer: In Song of Solomon 6:4, the phrase "terrible as an army with banners" (H366, H1713, H8737) does not imply fright or negativity, but rather conveys a sense of awe-inspiring majesty, formidable power, and overwhelming presence. It describes a beauty that is not merely delicate or passive, but one that commands respect, admiration, and attention. An army with banners would have been a magnificent and imposing sight in ancient times, signifying unity, strength, and an irresistible force. Thus, the Shulamite's beauty is portrayed as profoundly captivating and powerful, possessing a dignity and strength that distinguishes her as uniquely impressive and captivating to the King, much like the unified splendor of a triumphant military display. This imagery highlights her commanding presence and the profound impact she has on her beloved, echoing the powerful presence of God's people as seen in [Psalm 20:5](/psalm/20-5 "Psalm 20:5 - Displaying Banners in God's Name").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 6:4, with its rich imagery of beauty, comeliness, and awe-inspiring power, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the relationship between Christ and His Church. The King's praise for the Shulamite—"beautiful as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners"—is a profound foreshadowing of how Christ beholds His redeemed people. Just as Tirzah symbolized natural beauty and Jerusalem represented regal majesty, the Church, through Christ, is endowed with both spiritual purity and divine authority. Christ, the Bridegroom, has "loved the church and gave Himself up for her, that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word" ([Ephesians 5:25-26](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-26 - Christ's Love for the Church")). He sees His Church as glorious, "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "The Church as Christ's Spotless Bride")), a beauty imputed by His righteousness. Furthermore, the Church is "terrible as an army with banners" not in a sense of worldly might, but in its spiritual authority and unified witness against the forces of darkness. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, believers are a formidable spiritual army, equipped with the "weapons of our warfare...divine power to destroy strongholds" ([2 Corinthians 10:4](/2_corinthians/10-4 "2 Corinthians 10:4 - Spiritual Weapons")). This verse, therefore, beautifully illustrates Christ's deep affection for His Church and her majestic, awe-inspiring identity in Him, reflecting the ultimate victory and glory of the Lamb and His Bride ([Revelation 19:7-8](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7-8 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")).

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 6:10

Who [is] she [that] looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, [and] terrible as [an army] with banners?

Psalms 48:2

Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, [is] mount Zion, [on] the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

1 Kings 14:17

And Jeroboam's wife arose, and departed, and came to Tirzah: [and] when she came to the threshold of the door, the child died;

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.

Lamentations 2:15

All that pass by clap [their] hands at thee; they hiss and wag their head at the daughter of Jerusalem, [saying, Is] this the city that [men] call The perfection of beauty, The joy of the whole earth?

Revelation 21:2

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

Song Of Solomon 4:7

Thou [art] all fair, my love; [there is] no spot in thee.