Song of Solomon Chapter 1Let's read Song of Solomon Chapter 1 verses 9 to 17 through chapter 2 verses 1 to 7. This section discusses the dating leading to courtship part of the young man and woman's relationship. verse 9: … my darling, you are like my mare among the chariots of Pharaoh. In a culture where the horse was the most important possession, a mare belonging to Pharaoh was the best of the best. This statement wouldn’t go too far in our culture—but in this context it was a great compliment! In fact, in these verses we see a dating/courtship experience--the young man is complimentary, gentle, and sweet to the young lady: verse 10: …Your cheeks are lovely... verse 15: … how beautiful you are… verse 16: … how handsome you are… Take note that the couple eat together (verse 2:4) and spend time in a social setting. There is a definite attraction between the two of them, but it is only after they have a solid spiritual and social footing. verse 14: … My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyard of Engedi The henna blossoms are fragrant flowers, and the vineyard of Engedi represents a coastal area that was an oasis. Putting the imagery together, the relationship between this young couple represented a fragrant oasis in life for the both of them. Great relationships are refreshing! verse 17: … the beams of our houses are cedars; our rafters, cypresses This couple is spending time together in an open environment. There is propriety; they are in the light, in the open. Let's move on from Song of Solomon Chapter 1 to Chapter 2!
Chapter 2 verse 2: … like a lily among the thorns, so is my darling among the maidens The young man is strengthening and encouraging the girl with positive affirming statements. verse 3: … in his shade I took great delight and sat down The girl describes the man as shade; he brings her comfort, protection. verse 4: … he brought me to the banqueting table, and his banner over me is love. Their relationship speaks of celebration and love! verse 4: … sustain me with raisin cakes, refresh me with apples, because I am lovesick. There is an increasing desire for each other. verse 6: …let his left hand be under my head and his right hand embrace me They are obviously in an embrace, which might easily turn to more physical sex. Notice the next verse: verse 7: I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or by the hinds of the field…. Gazelles are robust, hinds are tender… verse 7: That you do not arouse or waken love until she pleases. Here is the message of physical restraint! This phrase "do not arouse or awaken love" is used three times in the Song of Solomon! As the sexual tension builds up between them, the man exercises his character and "puts the brakes on", so to speak. Restraint during dating and courtship proves and demonstrates the character necessary for marriage! Did you already read Song of Solomon Bible Study, Part One? More studies will be written in the future. Return to Home Page from Song of Solomon Chapter 1 |
