Song Of Solomon 8:13

KJV

¶ Thou that dwellest in the gardens, the companions hearken to thy voice: cause me to hear [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou that dwellest {H3427} in the gardens {H1588}, the companions {H2270} hearken {H7181} to thy voice {H6963}: cause me to hear {H8085} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

[He] You who live in the garden, friends are listening for your voice. Let me hear it!

Berean Standard Bible

You who dwell in the gardens, my companions are listening for your voice. Let me hear it!

American Standard Version

Thou that dwellest in the gardens, The companions hearken for thy voice: Cause me to hear it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Song of Solomon 8:13 captures a pivotal moment of intimate longing between the Beloved (the Shulamite) and the Lover (King Solomon), as he, recognizing her presence in the shared "gardens" and the attention of "companions," expresses an exclusive desire to hear her voice. This verse serves as a tender culmination of their journey, emphasizing the profound value of personal communion and the irreplaceable essence of the Beloved's unique expression within their relationship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears at the very end of the Song of Solomon, immediately preceding the Shulamite's final, powerful declaration of love's unyielding strength in [Song of Solomon 8:6-7](/song_of_solomon/8-6 "Song of Solomon 8:6-7 - Love's Invincibility"). The preceding verses describe the Beloved's return from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved, and her desire to draw him into her mother's home, symbolizing a deepening of their bond and a return to the roots of their affection. The Lover's plea in [Song of Solomon 8:13](/song_of_solomon/8-13 "Song of Solomon 8:13 - The Lover's Invitation") is a direct response to her presence and perhaps her song or conversation, a final, intimate invitation to share her innermost self before the book concludes with her protective concern for her younger sister in [Song of Solomon 8:8-10](/song_of_solomon/8-8 "Song of Solomon 8:8-10 - The Sister's Future") and a final vineyard metaphor in [Song of Solomon 8:11-12](/song_of_solomon/8-11 "Song of Solomon 8:11-12 - The Vineyard Analogy"). It underscores the mature, secure, and deeply affectionate nature of their relationship, where even in the presence of others, the desire for exclusive communion remains paramount.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, gardens were not merely utilitarian spaces but often served as private, cultivated havens for leisure, beauty, and intimate encounters, particularly among royalty and the wealthy. They symbolized delight, fertility, and exclusivity, as seen in the imagery of the "garden locked up" in [Song of Solomon 4:12](/song_of_solomon/4-12 "Song of Solomon 4:12 - The Enclosed Garden"). The "companions" would likely refer to the "daughters of Jerusalem" or other courtly attendants who have been observers and occasional participants in the narrative, offering advice or commentary, as noted in [Song of Solomon 1:5](/song_of_solomon/1-5 "Song of Solomon 1:5 - The Daughters of Jerusalem"). Their presence highlights the public affirmation of the Beloved's charm and character, yet the Lover's request transcends this public admiration, seeking a deeper, personal connection that only her voice can provide. The act of hearing one's voice was deeply significant, representing not just audible sound but the essence, presence, and identity of the speaker.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes of the Song of Solomon. It highlights the **desire for exclusive intimacy**, where the Lover, despite the public setting and the attention of others, yearns for the unique and personal expression of his Beloved. This underscores that genuine love seeks a deep, unmediated connection beyond mere observation. Furthermore, the emphasis on "thy voice" elevates the **value of personal expression and communication** within a loving relationship. The Beloved's voice represents her thoughts, feelings, songs, and very being, making her unique contribution invaluable to the Lover. Finally, the setting "in the gardens" and the presence of "companions" subtly reinforces the theme of **shared space and public affirmation contrasted with private longing**. While their love is acknowledged publicly, the most profound aspect of their bond is found in their intimate, private exchange, a recurring motif throughout the book, from their early encounters in [Song of Solomon 2:8-14](/song_of_solomon/2-8 "Song of Solomon 2:8-14 - The Lover's Invitation") to the mature expressions of their affection.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **dwellest (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** From H3427, a primitive root meaning "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell" or "to remain." In this context, it signifies the Beloved's settled presence and comfortable habitation within the shared, intimate spaces of the "gardens." It implies not just a temporary visit but a cherished, abiding presence that is known and appreciated by the Lover.
* **gardens (Hebrew, _gan'_):** From H1588, derived from a root meaning "to fence," referring to an enclosed, cultivated space. Throughout the Song of Solomon, "gardens" symbolize places of beauty, delight, fertility, and most importantly, intimate encounter and exclusive communion between the lovers. It is a place of shared joy and flourishing.
* **voice (Hebrew, _qôwl'_):** From H6963, meaning "a voice or sound," but extending to include a "cry," "proclamation," or "song." Here, it represents not merely an audible sound but the Beloved's unique expression, her inner self, her thoughts, her affections, and perhaps her singing. The Lover's desire to hear her "voice" is a yearning for the essence of her being and her personal communication.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou that dwellest in the gardens":** This opening address establishes the Beloved's location and presence. She is not merely passing through but is settled and at home in these intimate, beautiful spaces. This phrase highlights her beauty, her accessibility, and the pleasant environment she inhabits, which is shared with the Lover.
* **"the companions hearken to thy voice":** This clause introduces the public dimension. The "companions" (likely the "daughters of Jerusalem" or other friends) are listening to her, indicating that her voice, her wisdom, her song, or her presence is appreciated and admired by others. This sets up a contrast, showing that while her influence extends publicly, the Lover's desire is for something more exclusive.
* **"cause me to hear [it].":** This is the Lover's direct, heartfelt plea. Despite the companions' attention, his ultimate desire is for her voice to be directed specifically to him. The "it" refers back to "thy voice," emphasizing his longing for her personal, intimate communication, distinct from any public discourse. It signifies a yearning for exclusive communion and the irreplaceable value of her unique expression to him.

#### Literary Devices
Song of Solomon 8:13 employs several potent literary devices. **Imagery** is prominent, particularly with "gardens," which consistently symbolize beauty, intimacy, and fertility throughout the book. This specific imagery evokes a sense of peace and shared delight, a cultivated space where love flourishes. **Dialogue** is central, as the verse is a direct address from the Lover to the Beloved, highlighting the conversational and relational nature of the entire Song. The phrase "the companions hearken to thy voice" introduces a subtle **Contrast** between public admiration and private, exclusive longing. While others may hear and appreciate her, the Lover's plea is for a unique, personal audience, underscoring the depth of his affection. Finally, the emphasis on "voice" serves as **Symbolism**, representing not just audible sound but the Beloved's essence, her thoughts, her affections, and her very being. To hear her voice is to commune with her deepest self.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while rooted in human romance, offers profound theological insights when viewed through an allegorical lens, often interpreted as the relationship between Christ and His Church, or God and the individual believer. It speaks to God's profound desire for intimate, personal communion with His people, transcending any public display or collective worship. Just as the Lover yearns for the exclusive sound of his Beloved's voice amidst others, so too does God long for our individual prayers, our private worship, and the unique expression of our hearts. Our "voice" to God is our prayer, our praise, our honest confession, and our attentive listening to His Word. This reciprocal desire for communion is at the heart of the covenant relationship, where God delights in our presence and we are called to delight in His.

* [Psalm 27:8](/psalms/27-8 "Psalm 27:8 - Seeking God's Face") - "When you said, 'Seek my face,' my heart said to you, 'Your face, Lord, I will seek.'"
* [Revelation 3:20](/revelation/3-20 "Revelation 3:20 - Christ at the Door") - "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me."
* [John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - The Shepherd's Voice") - "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Song of Solomon 8:13 serves as a beautiful reminder of the profound importance of intentional, personal communication in all deeply cherished relationships, whether human or divine. In our human connections, it challenges us to move beyond superficial interactions and to genuinely desire to hear the unique voice of our loved ones—their unspoken thoughts, their deepest feelings, their truest selves. It's a call to create space for intimate dialogue, where listening is prioritized and the other's expression is valued above all external noise or public opinion. Spiritually, this verse powerfully illustrates God's yearning for our individual communion. He is not content with our collective presence in the "gardens" of worship; He desires to hear *our* voice, our personal prayers, our heartfelt praises, and our honest struggles. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not merely transactional or communal, but deeply personal and reciprocal. Just as the Lover wants to hear the Beloved, God wants to hear us, and we, in turn, are called to cultivate an attentive ear to His voice through His Word and Spirit, fostering a dynamic, living relationship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I actively seek to hear the "voice" (the true thoughts, feelings, and essence) of those I love most in my life?**
* **How does the presence of "companions" (external influences, distractions, or public expectations) sometimes hinder my ability to truly listen to and engage with others intimately?**
* **What does it mean for me to "cause God to hear my voice" in my personal spiritual life, beyond corporate worship?**
* **Am I truly listening for God's voice in my daily life, or am I more attuned to the "companions" of the world?**

### FAQ
**What is the primary interpretation of Song of Solomon 8:13?**

Answer: Song of Solomon 8:13 is primarily interpreted in two ways: literally and allegorically. Literally, it is a tender expression of exclusive desire from the Lover (often identified as King Solomon) to his Beloved (the Shulamite), emphasizing his longing for her personal voice and communion amidst others. Allegorically, particularly within Christian tradition, it is often understood as a representation of Christ's profound desire for intimate fellowship with His Church, or with individual believers. In this view, Christ (the Lover) longs to hear the "voice" of His people—their prayers, worship, and heartfelt devotion—even as the world (the "companions") observes or distracts. This dual interpretation allows the verse to speak to both the beauty of human love and the depth of divine-human relationship.

**How does "the companions hearken to thy voice" relate to the Lover's request?**

Answer: The phrase "the companions hearken to thy voice" serves as a crucial backdrop that highlights the exclusivity and depth of the Lover's subsequent request. It establishes that the Beloved's voice, her charm, or her wisdom is already recognized and appreciated by others (the "daughters of Jerusalem" or courtly attendants). This public affirmation underscores her value and presence. However, the Lover's immediate plea, "cause me to hear [it]," transcends this general admiration. It's a desire for a personal, unmediated, and exclusive hearing of her voice, distinct from the collective attention she receives. This contrast emphasizes that true intimacy involves a unique, direct connection that goes beyond mere public acknowledgment or shared space, focusing on the irreplaceable value of her individual expression to him alone.

**What does the "voice" symbolize in this context?**

Answer: In Song of Solomon 8:13, the "voice" (Hebrew, _qôwl_) symbolizes more than just audible sound. It represents the Beloved's unique essence, her innermost self, her thoughts, feelings, and personal expressions. It can include her songs, her spoken words of affection, her wisdom, or even her sighs. For the Lover to ask to hear her voice signifies his desire for her authentic, unreserved self to be revealed to him in intimate communion. In an allegorical sense, when applied to Christ and the believer, our "voice" to God encompasses our prayers, praise, worship, honest confessions, and any form of personal communication that expresses our heart and spirit to Him. It is the unique sound of our being, cherished by the Divine Lover.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Song of Solomon 8:13 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, particularly in His relationship with His Church, His Bride. Just as the Lover yearns to hear the exclusive voice of his Beloved amidst the "gardens" and the listening "companions," so too does Christ, our Divine Bridegroom, deeply desire intimate communion with His people. He is the Good Shepherd who declares, "[My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - The Shepherd's Voice")," emphasizing a personal, reciprocal relationship where He speaks and we listen, and we respond with our "voice"—our prayers, our worship, our confessions, and our obedient lives. This yearning for intimacy is echoed in His invitation, "[Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me](/revelation/3-20 "Revelation 3:20 - Christ at the Door")," revealing His desire for a shared, personal feast of fellowship. The "gardens" can be seen as the spiritual spaces where believers gather or where individual hearts commune with God, and the "companions" represent the world's distractions or even the collective body of believers. Yet, above all, Christ seeks the unique, individual "voice" of each believer, valuing our personal relationship and the authentic expression of our hearts. He gave Himself up for the Church, "[that he might present her to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")," demonstrating His ultimate desire for a pure and intimate union, where our voice of devotion is heard and cherished by Him eternally.

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 4:16

Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, [that] the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits.

Song Of Solomon 1:7

¶ Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest [thy flock] to rest at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?

John 14:13

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

John 14:14

If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do [it].

Psalms 45:14

She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee.

Song Of Solomon 2:13

The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines [with] the tender grape give a [good] smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away.

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.