Song Of Solomon 2:11

For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over [and] gone;

For, lo, the winter {H5638} is past {H5674}, the rain {H1653} is over {H2498} and gone {H1980};

For you see that the winter has passed, the rain is finished and gone,

For now the winter is past; the rain is over and gone.

For, lo, the winter is past; The rain is over and gone;

Commentary

Context

The Song of Solomon is a poetic book celebrating the beauty and intimacy of love between a man and a woman, often interpreted allegorically as the profound relationship between Christ and His Church, or God and Israel. Verse 2:11 is spoken by the beloved (the man) to his Shulamite bride, forming part of a passionate invitation for her to join him. It follows his tender declaration of love and desire for her presence in Song of Solomon 2:10, setting the scene for a joyful outing. This vivid imagery draws from the climate of ancient Israel, where the cold, wet winter and rainy season typically give way to the vibrant, fertile spring.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Transition and Renewal: The phrase "the winter is past, the rain is over and gone" powerfully signifies the end of a difficult, dormant, or unproductive period and the arrival of a season of warmth, growth, and flourishing. It speaks of a positive change, a shift from hardship or inactivity to vibrancy and new life.
  • Call to Intimacy and Action: This verse is part of an urgent and tender call from the beloved to his bride, inviting her to emerge from her dwelling. Symbolically, it represents an invitation to deeper fellowship, joy, and shared experience, moving past any obstacles or reasons for seclusion.
  • Hope and Joy: The passing of winter brings with it the promise of abundance, beauty, and delight. This verse encapsulates a message of hope, signaling that trials or periods of waiting are temporary and that a time of joy, fruitfulness, and renewed connection is at hand.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words for "winter" (sĕtāv) and "rain" (gešem) literally refer to the cold, wet season in the Levant, which is characterized by heavy rainfall and often a period of less outdoor activity. The emphatic declaration "over and gone" (ḥalaf hāgešem hālak lo) underscores the definitive and complete end of this period, highlighting the certainty of the transition. The use of natural imagery makes the message universally relatable, painting a picture of a fresh start.

Related Scriptures

This theme of renewal and new beginnings echoes throughout Scripture, often symbolizing spiritual transformation. Just as the earth experiences a seasonal rebirth, believers are called to a spiritual newness. Paul speaks of the new creation in Christ, where "old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Similarly, the prophetic promise of a time when God will wipe away tears and sorrow can be found in Revelation 21:4, reflecting a divine "springtime" for humanity where all hardship is "over and gone."

Practical Application

Song of Solomon 2:11 offers a beautiful metaphor for life's spiritual journey and personal relationships:

  • Embrace New Seasons: Recognize that difficult or dormant periods in life ("winter") are not permanent. There is always the promise of a new season of growth, joy, and closer fellowship with God or loved ones.
  • Respond to Invitation: Just as the Shulamite is called forth, we are often invited by God to step out of our comfort zones or past struggles into a deeper relationship with Him. This verse encourages us to respond to such divine invitations with faith and eagerness.
  • Cultivate Hope: It serves as a reminder that even after periods of "rain" or hardship, hope abounds. This verse encourages us to look forward to the "spring" of spiritual renewal and the vibrant life God offers, trusting that brighter days are ahead.
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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 60:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.

  • Isaiah 60:2 (4 votes)

    For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.

  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 (3 votes)

    ¶ He hath made every [thing] beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

  • Isaiah 54:6 (3 votes)

    ¶ For the LORD hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, and a wife of youth, when thou wast refused, saith thy God.

  • Isaiah 54:8 (3 votes)

    In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.

  • Ephesians 5:8 (2 votes)

    For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

  • Ecclesiastes 3:4 (2 votes)

    A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;