Song Of Solomon 7:3

Song of Solomon 7:3 is a poetic and intimate verse, part of a passionate description by the Beloved (King Solomon) of his Shulamite bride's beauty. This particular line focuses on her physical form, using vivid natural imagery to express admiration and affection.

Context

This verse is found within a larger passage (Song of Solomon 7:1-9) where the king extols the beauty of his bride from her feet to her head. It follows descriptions of her graceful movement and regal stature, leading to this tender and admiring observation of her breasts. The Song of Solomon itself is a unique book in the Bible, often interpreted as an allegory for God's love for His people, Christ's love for the Church, and literally, as a celebration of pure, exclusive marital love and intimacy between a man and a woman. This particular section highlights the physical attraction and delight shared within the sacred bond of marriage.

Key Themes

• Celebration of Marital Beauty: The verse is a profound expression of appreciation for physical beauty within the marriage covenant. It normalizes and sanctifies sexual attraction between spouses as a God-given aspect of love.
• Poetic Imagery: The simile "like two young roes that are twins" conveys symmetry, grace, youthful vitality, and delicate beauty. Roes (or gazelles) are often associated with swiftness, gentleness, and loveliness in ancient Near Eastern poetry. The "twins" aspect emphasizes perfect balance and harmony.
• Intimacy and Affection: Beyond mere physical description, the language reflects deep affection and desire. It’s a lover's gaze, finding profound delight in the beloved's form.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "young roes" (צְבִיָּה - tseviyah) refers to a gazelle or deer, animals prized for their elegance and swiftness. The imagery here is consistent with ancient Near Eastern love poetry, which often drew parallels between human beauty and the grace of animals or the bounty of nature. The repetition of "two" and "twins" (תְּאוֹמִים - te'omim) stresses the perfect symmetry and delightful pairing, enhancing the sense of aesthetic pleasure.

Related Scriptures

• This imagery is echoed in Song of Solomon 4:5, where the Beloved uses nearly identical language to describe his bride's breasts, indicating a consistent appreciation for her physical attributes.
• The overall theme of marital love and mutual delight is central to the entire book, as seen in passages like Song of Solomon 2:16, "My beloved is mine, and I am his."
• For a broader understanding of biblical perspectives on love and intimacy, explore 1 Corinthians 7:3 on marital duties or Hebrews 13:4 on the honor of marriage.

Practical Application

Song of Solomon 7:3, and the book as a whole, reminds us that physical attraction and intimacy are a beautiful and God-ordained part of the marriage relationship. It encourages spouses to express admiration and delight in one another, fostering a deep bond of affection and appreciation. In a culture that often distorts or devalues physical intimacy, this verse stands as a testament to its beauty and sanctity within the confines of a committed, loving marriage. It calls for celebration of the unique beauty of one's spouse, promoting a healthy and vibrant marital life.