Song Of Solomon 7:13

KJV

The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gates [are] all manner of pleasant [fruits], new and old, [which] I have laid up for thee, O my beloved.

KJV (with Strong's)

The mandrakes {H1736} give {H5414} a smell {H7381}, and at our gates {H6607} are all manner of pleasant {H4022} fruits, new {H2319} and old {H3465}, which I have laid up {H6845} for thee, O my beloved {H1730}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The mandrakes are sending out their fragrance, all kinds of choice fruits are at our doors, fruits both new and old, my darling, which I have kept in store for you.

Berean Standard Bible

The mandrakes send forth a fragrance, and at our door is every delicacy, new as well as old, that I have treasured up for you, my beloved.

American Standard Version

The mandrakes give forth fragrance; And at our doors are all manner of precious fruits, new and old, Which I have laid up for thee, O my beloved.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 7:13 presents the Shulamite woman's heartfelt and proactive declaration of love and provision for her beloved. She describes a sensory bounty of fragrant mandrakes and a rich assortment of "pleasant fruits," both newly ripened and carefully preserved, all meticulously prepared and awaiting him at their gates. This verse beautifully encapsulates her eager anticipation, deep devotion, and generous hospitality, symbolizing the comprehensive and enduring delight she offers within their intimate and cherished relationship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the passionate dialogue between the Shulamite and her beloved, immediately following his eloquent and detailed praise of her beauty and grace in the earlier verses of [Song of Solomon 7](/song_of_solomon/7 "Song of Solomon 7 - The Beloved's Praise of the Shulamite"). Her invitation in [Song of Solomon 7:11](/song_of_solomon/7-11 "Song of Solomon 7:11 - The Shulamite's Invitation to the Fields"), "Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages," sets the stage for this vibrant declaration of prepared abundance. Verse 13 serves as her enthusiastic and reciprocal response, detailing the sensory delights and provisions awaiting him, thereby reinforcing her eagerness for their intimate retreat to the countryside. It marks a shift from the beloved's admiration to her tangible expression of love and hospitality, subtly hinting at the desire for fruitfulness through the mention of mandrakes.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Mandrakes (Hebrew: _dûwday_) held significant cultural importance in the ancient Near East, renowned for their distinctive, sweet fragrance and, more notably, their traditional association with fertility and aphrodisiac properties. This belief is prominently featured in the biblical narrative of Rachel and Leah, where mandrakes are sought after for their perceived ability to aid conception, as detailed in [Genesis 30:14-16](/genesis/30-14-16 "Genesis 30:14-16 - Rachel, Leah, and Mandrakes"). The imagery of "gates" (Hebrew: _pethach_) typically referred to the entrance of a city or a home, serving as a place of welcome, commerce, and often public gathering. However, the personalization of "our gates" in this verse suggests a private, shared space, emphasizing the intimate nature of the welcome. The practice of "laying up" or storing fruits, both "new and old," reflects an agricultural society's careful stewardship and foresight, ensuring a continuous supply of sustenance and delight throughout the changing seasons.

* **Key Themes:** Song of Solomon 7:13 richly contributes to several overarching themes within the book. The theme of **Abundance and Provision** is powerfully conveyed through the "all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old," signifying a complete, diverse, and ongoing supply, reflecting the depth and richness of the love offered. **Eager Anticipation and Hospitality** are central, as the Shulamite has meticulously "laid up" these treasures specifically for her beloved, demonstrating her proactive preparation and profound desire to please him. The strategic inclusion of mandrakes subtly introduces the theme of **Fertility and Desire**, underscoring the sensual and life-giving aspects of their love and the hope for fruitfulness within their union, echoing the ancient understanding of these plants. Finally, the entire declaration is steeped in **Intimacy and Devotion**, as her preparations are exclusively for her "beloved," emphasizing the unique and cherished bond they share, a love that is both deeply personal and generously expressed, mirroring the exclusive nature of their covenant love.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mandrakes (Hebrew, _dûwday'_):** Derived from the root _dûd_ (meaning a boiler or basket), this term specifically refers to the mandrake plant. In ancient cultures, mandrakes were highly valued for their alluring fragrance and were widely believed to possess aphrodisiac qualities and to promote fertility. Their presence in this verse immediately evokes a sense of sensual allure and the hopeful anticipation of fruitfulness within the marital union, connecting physical delight with the desire for offspring and the continuation of their lineage.
* **Pleasant (Hebrew, _meged'_):** From an unused root likely meaning "to be eminent," this word describes something distinguished, valuable, or precious, specifically referring to choice products or fruits. It signifies not merely an abundance of provisions, but a collection of the finest, most desirable, and most esteemed items. The "pleasant fruits" are therefore not common produce, but those of exceptional quality and value, underscoring the Shulamite's intention to offer her very best, her most cherished bounty, to her beloved.
* **Beloved (Hebrew, _dôwd'_):** Originating from a root meaning "to boil" and figuratively "to love," this term is the quintessential and most frequently used word for "lover" or "friend" throughout the Song of Solomon. It encapsulates the deep affection, tender passion, and exclusive bond that defines the relationship between the Shulamite and her partner. The direct address, "O my beloved," at the verse's conclusion serves as a deeply intimate, personal invocation, emphasizing that her entire declaration of provision and desire is singularly focused on him, highlighting the unique and cherished nature of their relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The mandrakes give a smell":** This opening phrase immediately engages the sense of smell, establishing a fragrant, alluring, and almost intoxicating atmosphere. Mandrakes, known for their distinctive aroma and their strong cultural association with fertility and passion, introduce a sensual and hopeful element, hinting at the physical intimacy and procreative potential within their love. The very scent acts as an invitation, drawing the beloved into a space of delightful anticipation.
* **"and at our gates [are] all manner of pleasant [fruits], new and old":** This clause paints a picture of bountiful and diverse provisions. "At our gates" suggests a place of welcome and accessibility, yet also a deeply personal, shared domain, signifying a private space prepared for intimate communion. The phrase "all manner of pleasant fruits" indicates a wide variety of choice, valuable, and desirable produce, while "new and old" signifies a continuous and comprehensive supply—encompassing both fresh, seasonal delights and cherished, preserved provisions from the past. This imagery speaks to a relationship that offers both novelty and enduring comfort, growth and stability, a blend of fresh experiences and treasured memories.
* **"[which] I have laid up for thee, O my beloved":** This concluding phrase reveals the intentionality, foresight, and profound personal devotion behind the abundance. The Shulamite has proactively "laid up" or carefully stored these treasures, not for general consumption, but specifically "for thee," her beloved. This highlights her deep care, thoughtful preparation, and exclusive commitment. The direct, tender address, "O my beloved," reinforces the intimate and personal nature of her preparations, emphasizing that all her provision, desire, and affection are singularly focused on him, underscoring the unique and cherished bond they share.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich with **Sensory Imagery**, primarily through the vivid description of the "smell" of the mandrakes and the tangible presence of "fruits," engaging the reader's senses of smell, sight, and taste, thereby drawing them into the vibrant and alluring scene. **Symbolism** is profoundly employed throughout; the mandrakes symbolize fertility, intense desire, and the intoxicating power of love, while the "pleasant fruits, new and old," symbolize the multifaceted richness, enduring quality, and continuous provision within a deeply committed relationship—offering both fresh experiences and cherished memories. The phrase "at our gates" uses **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where the physical location represents the entire intimate household or shared private space, signifying a welcoming and exclusive domain. The entire verse functions as a tender and passionate **Invitation**, a heartfelt call from the Shulamite to her beloved, expressing her readiness and profound desire for their intimate union.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 7:13, in its vibrant celebration of a meticulously prepared and abundant welcome for the beloved, resonates deeply with the broader biblical theme of divine provision and the anticipation of intimate fellowship with God. Just as the Shulamite meticulously gathers and stores her finest fruits, God consistently prepares and provides for His people, offering both new mercies each morning and the enduring, unchanging promises of His covenant love. This verse beautifully illustrates the proactive nature of true love—both human and divine—which delights in preparing a place of joy, sustenance, and intimate communion for the beloved. It speaks to the richness of a relationship where both familiar comforts and fresh delights are cherished, reflecting a holistic, enduring, and ever-growing bond that finds its ultimate source and pattern in God's relationship with His creation and His people.

* [Psalm 23:5](/psalm/23-5 "Psalm 23:5 - The Lord's Provision and Anointing")
* [Matthew 25:21](/matthew/25-21 "Matthew 25:21 - The Parable of the Talents, Reward for Faithfulness")
* [Revelation 22:2](/revelation/22-2 "Revelation 22:2 - The Tree of Life in the New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 7:13 offers profound insights into the nature of deep, intentional love, providing a beautiful model for both marital relationships and our spiritual walk. The Shulamite's proactive preparation of "all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old," speaks powerfully to the beauty of thoughtful generosity, foresight, and the unwavering commitment required to nurture a relationship with both fresh experiences and cherished traditions. It challenges us to consider how we cultivate spaces of welcome, abundance, and intentionality for those we love, ensuring that our affections are not merely declared but also tangibly demonstrated through acts of service, provision, and thoughtful care. This verse encourages us to appreciate the cumulative blessings within our relationships—the "old" memories and foundational comforts that ground us, and the "new" joys and growth that keep love vibrant and dynamic. Spiritually, it can serve as a profound model for our readiness to welcome Christ into our lives, preparing our hearts as a dwelling place for Him, offering Him all that we are and all that we have, both our seasoned faith and our fresh devotion, in eager anticipation of His presence and intimate fellowship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I proactively "lay up" or prepare acts of love and service for my loved ones, reflecting the Shulamite's devotion and intentionality?**
* **How do I balance cherishing the "old" (established traditions, shared memories, foundational truths) with embracing the "new" (fresh experiences, personal growth, new revelations) in my most significant relationships, both human and divine?**
* **What "pleasant fruits" (gifts, talents, resources, time, or aspects of my character) has God given me that I can intentionally "lay up" and offer back to Him in worship, service, and devotion?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "mandrakes" in this verse?**

Answer: Mandrakes (Hebrew: _dûwday_) were plants highly regarded in ancient Near Eastern cultures for their distinctive, sweet fragrance and, more importantly, their traditional association with fertility and aphrodisiac properties. Their inclusion in [Song of Solomon 7:13](/song_of_solomon/7-13 "Song of Solomon 7:13 - The Shulamite's Prepared Welcome") is deeply symbolic. It significantly enhances the sensual and passionate atmosphere of the verse, underscoring the physical desire and intimacy between the lovers. Furthermore, it subtly introduces the theme of fruitfulness within their union, reflecting the ancient belief that mandrakes could aid in conception, a belief famously illustrated in the biblical account of Rachel and Leah in [Genesis 30:14-16](/genesis/30-14-16 "Genesis 30:14-16 - Rachel, Leah, and Mandrakes"). Thus, they signify both the alluring nature of their love and the hope for its procreative fulfillment and the joy of offspring.

**What does "at our gates" imply about the setting of this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "at our gates" (Hebrew: _pethach_) typically refers to the entrance of a city or a home. While city gates were often public spaces for commerce, legal proceedings, and social interaction, the possessive "our gates" here strongly suggests a more intimate and personal setting. It likely refers to the entrance of the Shulamite's private dwelling or property, or perhaps the entrance to their shared, secluded retreat in the countryside. It signifies a place of welcoming and access, but one that is specifically prepared and reserved for the beloved. This creates a beautiful tension: the abundance is displayed at a point of entry, yet it is exclusively "laid up for thee, O my beloved," emphasizing the private, devoted nature of their shared space and the profound intimacy of their anticipated fellowship. It is a threshold of personal welcome and prepared delight.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 7:13, with its vivid imagery of prepared abundance and eager welcome, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The Shulamite's meticulous laying up of "all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old," for her beloved beautifully foreshadows Christ's own proactive and comprehensive provision for His bride, the Church. He has not merely waited for us, but has gone to prepare an eternal dwelling place of unparalleled abundance and joy, as He promised His disciples in [John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Promises a Place for His Disciples"), ensuring that when He comes again, we will be received into His glorious presence. The "new and old" fruits can be seen in the new covenant He inaugurated through His sacrificial blood, which fulfills and brings to perfection the old covenant, as He declared He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it in [Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law and the Prophets"). He is the ultimate "beloved," the one for whom all things are prepared by the Father and to whom all our devotion, worship, and service are due. Furthermore, the spiritual "fruit" we are called to bear, such as love, joy, peace, and patience, as described in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"), is a direct result of our abiding in Him, the true vine, as taught in [John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Jesus, the True Vine"). Our "gates" are open to Him, not because we have anything to offer that He lacks, but because in His boundless grace, He invites us to participate in the eternal feast He has prepared, a testament to His unending love and the richness of His covenant relationship with His people.

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 30:14

¶ And Reuben went in the days of wheat harvest, and found mandrakes in the field, and brought them unto his mother Leah. Then Rachel said to Leah, Give me, I pray thee, of thy son's mandrakes.

Matthew 13:52

Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe [which is] instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man [that is] an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure [things] new and old.

Matthew 25:40

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me.

Colossians 3:17

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Ephesians 5:9

(For the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)

Romans 15:25

But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

Romans 15:27

It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.