TRV
Translation
King James Version
Solomon had a vineyard at Baalhamon; he let out the vineyard unto keepers; every one for the fruit thereof was to bring a thousand pieces of silver.
Complete Jewish Bible
Shlomo had a vineyard at Ba'al-Hamon, and he gave the vineyard to caretakers; each of them would pay for its fruit a thousand pieces of silver.
Berean Standard Bible
Solomon had a vineyard in Baal-hamon. He leased it to the tenants. For its fruit, each was to bring a thousand shekels of silver.
American Standard Version
Solomon had a vineyard at Baal-hamon; He let out the vineyard unto keepers; Every one for the fruit thereof was to bring a thousand pieces of silver.
World English Bible Messianic
Solomon had a vineyard at Baal Hamon. He leased out the vineyard to keepers. Each was to bring a thousand shekels of silver for its fruit.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Salomon had a vine in Baal-hamon: hee gaue the vineyarde vnto keepers: euery one bringeth for ye fruite thereof a thousand pieces of siluer.
Young's Literal Translation
Solomon hath a vineyard in Baal-Hamon, He hath given the vineyard to keepers, Each bringeth for its fruit a thousand silverlings;
See also
In the KJVVerse 17,652 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers . Public domain.
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Ambrose of MilanAD 397
The Six Days of Creation
Hence, in the Song of Songs it is said: "I am a wall, and my breasts are towers." The wall is the Church and its towers are the priests, who abound in both the word of nature and moral discipline.
Cyril of AlexandriaAD 444
FRAGMENTS IN THE COMMENTARY ON THE SONG OF SONGS 8:11
The vineyard which, it says, was given to the spiritual Solomon is surely the church. And we have already said that Baal-hamon means "in believers." For who believed, apart from those who accepted his commandments?
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
He entrusted it to the keepers, etc. For the keepers of the Church are the prophets, the keepers are the apostles, the keepers are the successors of the prophets and apostles, who in different ages of the world were given to its governance by divine command; the keepers are the heavenly host of the military, who at all times during the passing of the age take care for the state of the Church, lest it be disturbed by the inbreaking of the wicked, whether men or spirits. But the man brings a thousand silver coins for the fruit of this vineyard, because whoever makes progress in acquiring the heavenly kingdom forsakes all that is of the world: for the fruit of labors done temporarily for the Lord is the reception of the eternal rest and kingdom with the Lord. Concerning which He Himself said, "I have appointed you that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain" (John XV); that is, that you should work and receive wages, and that wage itself should never be ended. Scripture is accustomed to call a man of perfect virtue vir (man): for indeed vir takes its name from virtue, since undoubtedly a vir, that is, a soul elevated by the grace of virtue, brings a thousand silver coins for the fruit of this vineyard when he forsakes all his temporal possessions so as to be worthy to receive eternal goods. By the term silver coins, it designates any kind of money that should be forsaken. By the number a thousand, which is perfect and complete, the entirety is usually designated, and therefore by the thousand silver coins which a man is said to bring for the fruit of this vineyard, the entirety of what the perfect forsake for the Lord is indicated; which, even if sometimes small in valuation, is certainly judged to be great and abundant in the estimation of Him who considers not the sum of the given money, but the conscience of the giving man. This is the same sentiment which above is set forth in other words, "If a man would give all the substance of his house for love, he will utterly be contemned": indeed, here the thousand silver coins are set for all the substance of the house which is to be forsaken; but love, which, the other charismata ceasing, embraces us perpetually in the heavenly fatherland, is itself the fruit of the vineyard by which the blessed will then be satiated, who now in the same vineyard are laboring and are hungry and thirsty for righteousness. Then follows the voice of the One at peace, as it teaches how much care He has for His vineyard, namely the Church, what He conserves eternally for those who forsake their own for Him, what special reward He intends to give to the keepers of the same vineyard, that is, the teachers.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on the Song of Songs
Solomon had a vineyard in Baal-Hamon; he leased the vineyard to keepers; everyone was to bring a thousand pieces of silver for its fruit. My own vineyard is before me. You, O Solomon, must have a thousand, and those who keep its fruit two hundred. Speaking of this, the Church, or the Synagogue, which he saw to be emulated by her or, to say more gently, marveling at her conversion to the Lord, or indeed to her maidens, whom she was accustomed to call daughters of Jerusalem by this song. The Peaceful one, however, whom she names, is her spouse and beloved, the Father of the future age, the Prince of peace (Isaiah 9), whose figure Solomon presented both in the peaceful state of his kingdom and in his name itself. In whose peace the vineyard existed, because by His grace the Catholic Church was established throughout the world. It is mentioned in many passages of Scripture, but most clearly in the Gospel parable where it is written: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who was a householder who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard," etc. (Matthew 20); where by the laborers of the first, third, sixth, ninth, and eleventh hour it is clearly expressed that the one and the same Church of Christ, throughout the entirety of this age, which is signified by one day's duration, is tirelessly cultivated by the labor of spiritual teachers. Likewise, there was a vineyard for the peaceful one in it, that is, in that peace about which He had foretold that it would be made in His presence, as if finding peace; because whoever neglects to have peace does not belong to the Church of Christ, even if he seems to confess Christ and obey His commands. For in peace is His place established. And the Apostle says, "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no one will see God" (Hebrews XII); The society of this peace is set before us by the very sight and form of a most beautiful vineyard, which, to use the words of blessed Ambrose, "first plants a living root for the imitation of our life; then, because it is of a flexible and fragile nature, it clings with tendrils, like certain arms, to whatever it grasps, and with these raises and lifts itself." The people of the Church are like this, who are planted with a root of faith and restrained by the shoot of humility, and lest they be turned away by the storms of the world and driven by tempest, they embrace those around them with tendrils and circles, as if with the arms of charity, and rest in their union. This vineyard is cultivated when we are relieved from the burden of worldly concerns. For nothing burdens the mind more than such anxiety and desire, whether for money or power. A cultivated vineyard is supported so that it may be elevated when our affection is raised by the example of the saints, and does not lie low and despised, but each mind lifts itself to higher things, daring to say: "Our conversation is in heaven" (Philippians III). This vineyard has peoples, because the holy Church is gathered not from one Jewish nation, but from the peoples of all nations. The Church of the Gentiles was especially added for this reason, to teach that it could belong to this vineyard, and that Judea should not glory in the exclusivity of the divine knowledge given to it; for the Psalmist says, "Praise the Lord, all you nations" (Psalm CXVI). And Moses himself foretold, "Rejoice, O nations, with His people" (Romans XV). Since the Lord greatly cares for this vineyard so that it may be kept undefiled, and there is great necessity for men to participate in it, it is rightly added:
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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SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 8:11 provides a unique administrative interlude within the lyrical poetry of the Song of Solomon, offering a glimpse into King Solomon's immense wealth and shrewd management. It details his ownership of a highly productive vineyard situated at Baalhamon, which he leased to caretakers. These keepers were obligated to return a substantial profit of a thousand pieces of silver, underscoring the vineyard's significant value and the king's vast economic enterprise. This verse serves as a crucial backdrop, particularly when juxtaposed with the Shulamite's personal "vineyard" in the subsequent verse, inviting profound reflection on differing forms of ownership, inherent value, and faithful stewardship.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 8:11 masterfully employs several literary devices. Symbolism is profoundly prominent, with the vineyard representing not only a literal agricultural asset but also a broader concept of wealth, prosperity, and even the self or one's life. The "thousand pieces of silver" functions as Hyperbole, serving to emphasize the extraordinary value and exceptional productivity of Solomon's vineyard, rather than indicating a precise, literal amount. Most significantly, this verse serves as a powerful Juxtaposition or Contrast when read in light of the subsequent verse (Song of Solomon 8:12), where the Shulamite declares, "my vineyard, which is mine, is before me." This sets up a profound comparison between external, material wealth (Solomon's vineyard) and internal, personal value (the Shulamite's vineyard), compelling the reader to contemplate where true riches and lasting value genuinely reside.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Song of Solomon 8:11, while appearing to be a straightforward economic detail, carries significant theological weight, particularly when viewed within its broader biblical context. It speaks directly to themes of divine blessing, human stewardship, and the very nature of true wealth. Solomon's vast vineyard and its immense yield can be understood as a tangible reflection of the prosperity and favor God granted him, serving as a testament to the blessings that can accompany wisdom and obedience. However, the verse's primary theological impact arises from its deliberate contrast with the Shulamite's personal "vineyard" in the following verse. This powerful juxtaposition invites profound reflection on the fundamental difference between earthly possessions and the invaluable, intimate treasures of the heart, spirit, and relationships. It subtly yet powerfully challenges a purely materialistic view of success, suggesting that while external wealth has its place, true fulfillment and enduring value are ultimately found in diligently tending to one's inner life and cherished connections, which cannot be bought, sold, or measured in silver.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 8:11, especially when read in conjunction with the Shulamite's poignant response in the subsequent verse, provides a profound opportunity for deep personal reflection and practical application. We are prompted to consider what our "vineyard" truly is—not merely in terms of literal possessions, but metaphorically, what we choose to invest our most precious resources: our time, energy, and affections. Are we primarily focused on accumulating external wealth and diligently managing material assets, much like Solomon's vast economic enterprise? Or are we, with equal or greater diligence, tending to our internal "vineyard"—our character, our spiritual walk, our relationships, and the unique gifts and divine callings God has entrusted to us? The verse also serves as a powerful and timeless reminder of our inherent role as stewards. Just as the keepers were held accountable for the fruit of Solomon's vineyard, we too are called to be faithful managers of all that God has graciously given us—our resources, talents, time, and relationships. This calls us to cultivate these vital areas with unwavering diligence, expecting to yield spiritual fruit that honors God and blesses others, recognizing that true and lasting value extends immeasurably beyond mere monetary gain.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of "Baalhamon" in this verse?
Answer: "Baalhamon" (Hebrew, Baʻal_ _Hâmôwn') literally means "possessor of a multitude" or "lord of abundance." While its exact geographical location remains a subject of scholarly debate, its name powerfully suggests a place of exceptional fertility and productivity. In the context of Song of Solomon 8:11, it signifies that Solomon's vineyard was not just any vineyard, but one of immense value and high yield, capable of generating a substantial profit. It underscores the vastness and superior quality of Solomon's possessions, reinforcing the overarching theme of his great wealth and administrative capacity.
Why is "a thousand pieces of silver" significant?
Answer: The "thousand pieces of silver" (Hebrew, ʼeleph_ _keçeph') represents an exceptionally large and valuable sum in ancient times, signifying the immense profitability and high value of Solomon's vineyard. It highlights the substantial income generated for the king and the significant accountability placed upon the vineyard keepers. This figure dramatically emphasizes the scale of Solomon's wealth and the high expectations for return on his investments. Crucially, it also sets up a stark contrast with the Shulamite's personal "vineyard" in Song of Solomon 8:12, where she values her own intrinsic worth, purity, and cherished relationship far above any material compensation, even a thousand pieces of silver.
How does this verse relate to the rest of the Song of Solomon?
Answer: Song of Solomon 8:11 serves as a crucial literary and thematic device within the broader narrative of the Song. While it appears to be a mere administrative detail, its primary function is to establish a powerful and deliberate contrast with the Shulamite's declaration in the very next verse, Song of Solomon 8:12. Solomon's vineyard represents external, quantifiable material wealth and a managed enterprise. In stark contrast, the Shulamite's declaration, "my vineyard, which is mine, is before me," is widely interpreted as her personal purity, her self-possession, her cherished relationship, or her inner being. This profound juxtaposition highlights the fundamental difference between quantifiable, external value and the inestimable, internal value of true love, purity, personal integrity, and faithfulness, which she prizes above all of Solomon's vast riches.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 8:11, though seemingly an economic detail from an ancient king's ledger, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment when viewed through the lens of God's ultimate ownership and the stewardship of His spiritual kingdom. Just as Solomon owned a vast and fruitful vineyard, God is the supreme Proprietor of all creation and, more specifically, of His people, who are frequently depicted as a vineyard in Scripture (e.g., Isaiah 5:1-7). Jesus, the true Son of David and the promised Messiah, declares Himself to be the "true vine" in John 15:1, with believers being the branches, called to abide in Him and bear much fruit for the Father's glory. The "keepers" in Solomon's vineyard powerfully foreshadow the role of believers as faithful stewards of God's kingdom, entrusted with spiritual gifts, temporal resources, and the transformative message of the Gospel. We are called to diligently cultivate the "vineyard" of our individual lives and the collective Church, not for fleeting personal profit, but for the eternal glory of the true Owner, expecting to yield abundant spiritual "fruit"—the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and souls brought into the eternal harvest (John 4:35-38). The "thousand pieces of silver" can be seen as a symbolic representation of the immense spiritual return and eternal reward that awaits those who faithfully steward what Christ has graciously entrusted to them, powerfully demonstrating that the true and lasting treasure is not earthly wealth, but the immeasurable spiritual abundance found in Him and His everlasting kingdom (Matthew 6:19-21).