What number verse is Song of Solomon 6:7 in the Bible?

Song of Solomon 6:7 is the 17,622nd verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Song of Solomon 6:7 sits at position 17,622.

6:66:6

Song of Solomon 6:7

Q: Why is the pomegranate used as a comparison here and elsewhere in the Bible?

The pomegranate (rimmôwn) was a highly symbolic and esteemed fruit in the ancient Near East, frequently appearing in biblical imagery due to its cultural significance and inherent characteristics. It was prized for its numerous seeds, juicy pulp, and often vibrant red or rosy hue. Symbolically, it represented fertility, abundance, prosperity, and even modesty or purity due to its many seeds enclosed within a protective rind. Its importance is highlighted by its use in the elaborate decorations of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 7:18) and on the hem of the high priest's robe (Exodus 28:33-34). In the context of beauty, comparing a delicate feature like the temples to a "piece of a pomegranate" evokes a sense of blushing health, vibrant inner richness, and a delicate, inviting texture. The "piece" specifically refers to the internal segments, suggesting a beauty that is both tender and full of life, not just outwardly appealing.

6:86:8

Translation

King James Version

As a piece of a pomegranate are thy temples within thy locks.

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KJV (with Strong's)

As a piece ^H6400 of a pomegranate ^H7416 are thy temples ^H7541 within ^H1157 thy locks ^H6777.

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Complete Jewish Bible

Your cheeks are like a pomegranate split open behind your veil.

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Berean Standard Bible

Your brow behind your veil is like a slice of pomegranate.

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American Standard Version

Thy temples are like a piece of a pomegranate Behind thy veil.

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World English Bible Messianic

Your temples are like a piece of a pomegranate behind your veil.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

There are threescore Queenes and fourescore concubines and of the damsels without nober.

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Young's Literal Translation

As the work of the pomegranate is thy temple behind thy veil.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Song of Solomon 6:7 continues the king's fervent adoration for the Shulamite woman, employing a delicate and intimate simile to describe her beauty. He likens her temples, subtly glimpsed through her flowing hair, to a piece of a pomegranate. This vivid imagery conveys a sense of tender, blushing allure, suggesting an inner radiance and captivating modesty that consistently enthralls him, reinforcing the enduring nature of their mutual affection and the profound, multifaceted charm of the beloved.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Song of Solomon 6:7 is nestled within a climactic and passionate declaration of love from the king to the Shulamite, immediately following her return and their reunion (Song of Solomon 5:2-16 and Song of Solomon 6:1-3). Having found her among the gardens, the king launches into a renewed and intensified series of praises for her beauty, commencing in Song of Solomon 6:4. This particular verse echoes an almost identical description found earlier in Song of Solomon 4:3, a significant literary device that emphasizes the unwavering, consistent, and deeply ingrained nature of his admiration. The repetition serves to reaffirm his profound devotion and delight in her, reinforcing the overarching themes of steadfast love, mutual possession, and enduring attraction that permeate the entire book. It underscores that her beauty, particularly these delicate features, continues to captivate him with the same intensity as it did at the very outset of their relationship.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, descriptions of beauty were intrinsically linked to natural imagery, drawing heavily from the abundant flora and fauna of the land. The pomegranate (rimmôwn) held immense cultural and symbolic significance beyond its culinary value. Esteemed for its sweet, juicy pulp, numerous seeds, and vibrant aesthetic, it universally symbolized fertility, abundance, prosperity, and even modesty or purity due to its many seeds enclosed within a protective rind. Its sacred importance is evident in its use as decorative motifs on the pillars of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 7:18) and as ornaments on the hem of the high priest's ephod (Exodus 28:33-34). The "temples" (raqqâh), the delicate, thin area on the side of the head, were considered a subtle point of beauty, often indicative of a healthy glow or a blush. The "locks" (tsammâh) refer to the hair, which women typically wore long and often styled to frame the face or provide a degree of veiling, contributing to a sense of modesty, allure, and refined grace.
Key Themes: This verse profoundly contributes to several central themes within the Song of Solomon. Firstly, it powerfully amplifies the theme of Profound Admiration and Beauty, showcasing the king's meticulous and intimate attention to the Shulamite's physical attributes, even the most delicate and subtle ones. His praise is not superficial but deeply appreciative of her entire being, reflecting a love that sees and cherishes every detail. Secondly, the evocative phrase "within thy locks" introduces the theme of Modesty and Hidden Charm, suggesting that her beauty is not overtly displayed but partially veiled, enhancing her mystique and inviting a deeper, more intimate gaze from her beloved. This veiled beauty is often portrayed as more alluring and captivating than an unveiled display. Thirdly, the potent Symbolism of the Pomegranate reinforces themes of inner richness, vibrant life, and delicate, blushing beauty. The comparison implies a healthy, radiant complexion and a captivating inner vitality, mirroring the abundance and sweetness of the fruit itself. These themes collectively celebrate the multifaceted nature of love and attraction within the sacred bond of marriage, emphasizing both outward appeal and inner character, and the enduring delight found in a cherished beloved.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

piece (Hebrew, pelach', H6400): From the root meaning "to split" or "to cleave," this noun refers to a slice or segment, specifically the internal, segmented flesh of the pomegranate. In this context, it evokes a delicate, perhaps blushing, color and texture, rather than the hard outer rind. It implies an intimate glimpse into the fruit's inner beauty, suggesting a tender, vulnerable, and inviting aspect of the Shulamite's temples.
pomegranate (Hebrew, rimmôwn', H7416): This highly symbolic fruit in ancient Near Eastern cultures represents fertility, abundance, beauty, and often modesty or purity due to its many seeds enclosed within a protective rind. Its deep red or rosy hue is frequently associated with vitality, passion, and health. The comparison to a "piece" of it specifically highlights the vibrant, juicy, and often blush-colored inner pulp, underscoring the Shulamite's radiant and healthy complexion.
locks (Hebrew, tsammâh', H6777): Derived from an unused root meaning "to fasten on," this term denotes a veil or, more commonly, the hair, specifically referring to tresses or locks of hair that might frame or partially cover the face. The phrase "within thy locks" suggests that the beauty of her temples is not overtly exposed but is seen through or beneath her hair, adding an element of modesty, privacy, and perhaps a hint of playful concealment that significantly enhances her allure and mystique.

Verse Breakdown

"As a piece of a pomegranate": This opening simile establishes the primary comparison, likening a specific part of the Shulamite's face to the inner, segmented flesh of a pomegranate. This evokes imagery of a delicate, rosy hue, perhaps a blush, and a vibrant, healthy appearance, suggesting a beauty that is both tender and richly inviting. The "piece" emphasizes an intimate, perhaps partially revealed, aspect of this beauty, highlighting its internal richness.
"[are] thy temples": The subject of the comparison is the Shulamite's temples, the delicate areas on the sides of her head, near the eyes and forehead. This choice highlights a subtle and refined aspect of her beauty, drawing attention to a feature that might not be immediately obvious but is deeply appreciated by the king. It speaks to an intimate gaze that notices intricate, tender details.
"within thy locks": This phrase specifies the context in which her temples are observed, indicating that they are partially veiled or framed by her hair. This adds a crucial layer of modesty and allure, suggesting that her beauty is not overtly displayed but is seen through a soft, natural screen. It enhances her mystique and implies a private, cherished beauty, perhaps only fully appreciated by her beloved, inviting a closer, more intimate look.

Literary Devices

The verse is richly endowed with Simile, directly comparing the Shulamite's temples to a "piece of a pomegranate" using the explicit "as." This comparison is not merely descriptive but profoundly evocative, drawing upon the deep Symbolism of the pomegranate, which in ancient cultures represented fertility, abundance, and inner beauty. The fruit's rosy interior suggests a healthy, blushing complexion, while its many seeds hint at vitality and richness of character. The phrase "within thy locks" employs vivid Imagery that creates a sense of veiled beauty, suggesting modesty, privacy, and a captivating allure. This partial concealment, rather than diminishing her beauty, enhances her mystique and draws the observer's gaze inward, inviting a more intimate appreciation of her delicate features. The verse also demonstrates Repetition, as this exact description appears earlier in Song of Solomon 4:3, serving as a Refrain that underscores the enduring nature of the king's affection and the consistent captivating power of the Shulamite's beauty, affirming the stability and depth of their love.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Song of Solomon 6:7, while a profound celebration of human marital love and beauty, resonates with deeper theological truths about God's meticulous appreciation for His creation and His people. The king's intimate and detailed praise for the Shulamite's subtle, partially veiled beauty can be seen as an echo of God's own delight in the intricate details of His handiwork and His profound, cherishing love for His chosen ones. Just as the king finds beauty in the intimate and partially hidden aspects of his beloved, so too does God cherish the inner qualities and modest devotion of His followers, often valuing what is unseen or overlooked by the world. This verse, therefore, can inspire reflection on the nature of true beauty as something that extends far beyond superficial appearance, encompassing inner character, purity of heart, and a humble spirit. It speaks to a love that sees, appreciates, and cherishes every facet of the beloved, mirroring the divine love that intimately knows and profoundly values each individual.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

This poetic expression of love offers profound insights for our own relationships and self-perception in a contemporary world. In an era often captivated by overt displays and superficial beauty standards, Song of Solomon 6:7 invites us to cultivate a discerning appreciation for subtlety, modesty, and the deeper, often hidden, aspects of beauty in ourselves and others. It challenges us to look beyond the immediate and obvious, to truly see and cherish the delicate nuances that make each person uniquely precious and wonderfully made. For those in relationships, it encourages a gaze that is both intimate and profoundly affirming, celebrating the specific, often overlooked, features and inner qualities of a partner with genuine admiration and consistent delight. For individuals, it serves as a powerful reminder that true beauty is not solely external but emanates from within, a blend of inner character, purity, and a humble spirit that, like the veiled temples, possesses a captivating and enduring allure. It prompts us to consider what qualities we truly value and how we express appreciation for the intrinsic worth and dignity of those around us, fostering deeper, more meaningful connections.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse challenge modern perceptions of beauty, which often prioritize overt display and external validation over subtle charm and inner radiance?
In what practical ways can we cultivate a deeper appreciation for the "hidden" or less obvious qualities in our loved ones and in our own self-perception?
What does the king's consistent and repeated praise of the Shulamite's beauty (echoed from Song of Solomon 4:3) teach us about the enduring nature of love, affirmation, and delight in healthy relationships?

FAQ

Why is the pomegranate used as a comparison here and elsewhere in the Bible?

Answer: The pomegranate (rimmôwn) was a highly symbolic and esteemed fruit in the ancient Near East, frequently appearing in biblical imagery due to its cultural significance and inherent characteristics. It was prized for its numerous seeds, juicy pulp, and often vibrant red or rosy hue. Symbolically, it represented fertility, abundance, prosperity, and even modesty or purity due to its many seeds enclosed within a protective rind. Its importance is highlighted by its use in the elaborate decorations of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 7:18) and on the hem of the high priest's robe (Exodus 28:33-34). In the context of beauty, comparing a delicate feature like the temples to a "piece of a pomegranate" evokes a sense of blushing health, vibrant inner richness, and a delicate, inviting texture. The "piece" specifically refers to the internal segments, suggesting a beauty that is both tender and full of life, not just outwardly appealing.

Does the repetition of this description from Song of Solomon 4:3 hold any special significance?

Answer: Yes, the repetition of this exact description from Song of Solomon 4:3 is highly significant in Hebrew poetry. Repetition often serves to emphasize, affirm, and underscore a point, imparting deeper meaning. Here, it powerfully highlights the enduring and consistent nature of the king's admiration for the Shulamite's beauty. It demonstrates that his affection is not fleeting or superficial but deeply rooted and unwavering, and that these specific features continue to captivate him as profoundly as they did earlier in their relationship. This literary device reinforces the theme of unwavering love and devotion, suggesting that true love sees and cherishes the beloved's qualities consistently over time, finding renewed delight in familiar charms. It underscores the stability, depth, and constancy of their bond, indicating that her beauty is not just passing but a perpetual source of delight for him.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Song of Solomon 6:7 is a beautiful celebration of human marital love, its rich imagery and profound themes find their ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the glorious relationship between Christ and His Church. Just as the king meticulously praises the subtle, veiled beauty of the Shulamite, so too does Christ behold His Church with an intimate, appreciative gaze that transcends mere outward appearance. He sees beyond our imperfections and cherishes the inner beauty of His redeemed people—their faith, their purity of heart, and their humble devotion, often hidden from the world's view. The "piece of a pomegranate" imagery, suggestive of vibrant life and blushing health, can be seen to reflect the spiritual vitality and radiant purity that Christ bestows upon His Church through His atoning work. He has cleansed and sanctified her "that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and blameless" (Ephesians 5:27). The "locks" that partially veil her temples speak to the Church's modesty, her dependence on Christ's covering righteousness, and the sacred, intimate nature of her relationship with Him. Ultimately, this verse beautifully foreshadows Christ's profound and unwavering love for His Bride, a love that delights in her every facet, making her truly beautiful in His eyes through His transformative grace, just as the New Jerusalem is described as "prepared as a bride adorned for her husband" (Revelation 21:2). His admiration is not based on what we achieve, but on who we are in Him, a testament to His sovereign and cherishing love that makes us eternally beautiful.

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Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.

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Ambrose of MilanAD 397

CONSOLATION ON THE DEATH OF EMPEROR VALENTINIAN 6

What are the cheeks of the church of which the Scripture elsewhere says, “Your cheeks are as the bark of pomegranates”? They are the cheeks on which modesty is accustomed to shine, beauty to sparkle, on which there is either the flower of youth or the distinguished mark of perfect age.

BedeAD 735

Commentary on the Song of Songs

As the rind of a pomegranate, etc. It was said above that in the cheeks of the Church the insignia of her modesty is figured, in the pomegranate the ministry of the blood of the Lord is depicted. And the bride of Christ has cheeks like a pomegranate, because a faithful soul does not blush at the passion of its Redeemer, neither to confess in words nor to imitate in deeds; but with all shame and confusion, which lead to death, set aside, she delights to proclaim openly, saying: But far be it from me to glory, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians VI). And prudently, because he had compared the cheeks of the Church to the rind of a pomegranate, he therefore added, Without your hidden things, because evidently the rind of a pomegranate shows indeed only redness on the outside, but conceals inside many seeds with which it abounds. Thus indeed a soul devoted to God, and healthily modest, strives through all things to safeguard itself by the virtue of the life-giving cross, but under the same sign of the cross, it contains many kinds of virtues which do not appear outside, but truly refresh the mind within.

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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