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The Bride and Her Beloved
The Bridegroom
1I have come to my garden, my sister, my bride;
I have gathered my myrrh with my spice.
I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey;
I have drunk my wine with my milk. The Friends
Eat, O friends, and drink;
drink freely, O beloved.
The Bride
2I sleep, but my heart is awake.
A sound! My beloved is knocking:
“Open to me, my sister, my darling,
my dove, my flawless one.
My head is drenched with dew,
my hair with the dampness of the night.”
3I have taken off my robe—
must I put it back on?
I have washed my feet—
must I soil them again?
4My beloved put his hand to the latch;
my heart pounded for him.
5I rose up to open for my beloved.
My hands dripped with myrrh,
my fingers with flowing myrrh
on the handles of the bolt.
6I opened for my beloved,
but he had turned and gone.
My heart sank at his departure.
I sought him, but did not find him.
I called, but he did not answer.
7I encountered the watchmen on their rounds of the city.
They beat me and bruised me;
they took away my cloak,
those guardians of the walls.
8O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you,
if you find my beloved,
tell him I am sick with love.
The Friends
9How is your beloved better than others,
O most beautiful among women?
How is your beloved better than another,
that you charge us so?
The Bride
10My beloved is dazzling and ruddy,
outstanding among ten thousand.
11His head is purest gold;
his hair is wavy and black as a raven.
12His eyes are like doves
beside the streams of water,
bathed in milk
and mounted like jewels.
13His cheeks are like beds of spice,
towers of perfume.
His lips are like lilies,
dripping with flowing myrrh.
14His arms are rods of gold
set with beryl.
His body is an ivory panel
bedecked with sapphires.
15His legs are pillars of marble
set on bases of pure gold.
His appearance is like Lebanon,
as majestic as the cedars.
he is altogether lovely.
This is my beloved, and this is my friend,
O daughters of Jerusalem.
Footnotes:
16 aHebrew palate
06 the Excellency of Christ (Song 5:10-16)
By Mike Bickle3455:20The Beauty of ChristDevotion to GodNUM 6:24PSA 103:14PRO 15:3SNG 5:10MAT 11:28JHN 15:15ROM 8:28PHP 3:8HEB 4:13REV 2:18Mike Bickle emphasizes the spiritual beauty of Christ as depicted in Song of Solomon 5:10-16, contrasting it with the natural beauty of a husband. He highlights how the Apostle Paul viewed the excellency of Christ as a motivation for radical obedience, urging believers to see Jesus more clearly to deepen their devotion. The bride's lovesickness for her beloved, despite trials and disappointments, serves as a model for unwavering love and pursuit of Christ. Bickle encourages believers to recognize the incomparable beauty and attributes of Jesus, which should inspire a deeper relationship with Him. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to prioritize Christ above all other loves in life.
18 the Ultimate Two-Fold Test of Maturity (Song 5:2-9)
By Mike Bickle2846:57Fellowship of SufferingSpiritual MaturitySNG 5:2Mike Bickle explores the profound themes of spiritual maturity in the Song of Solomon, particularly focusing on the bride's courageous prayer for both adversity and blessing. He emphasizes the transition from seeking personal inheritance in God to recognizing that we are God's inheritance, which deepens our relationship with Him. The sermon highlights the importance of obedience and love, even in times of spiritual dryness, as the bride learns to open her heart to Jesus despite the challenges she faces. Bickle encourages believers to embrace the 'fellowship of suffering' as a means to grow closer to Christ and to understand the depth of His love. Ultimately, the message calls for a mature love that seeks God for who He is, rather than merely for His blessings.
Jesus Praises the Bride After Her Season of Testing
By Mike Bickle2747:05Spiritual GrowthFaith in TrialsSNG 4:16SNG 5:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the progression of spiritual maturity in the Song of Solomon, illustrating how the bride undergoes testing and trials that deepen her relationship with Jesus. He reassures believers that during times of testing, God is intimately aware of their struggles and is moved by their love and faithfulness, even when they feel abandoned. The sermon highlights that true love for God transcends feelings and circumstances, and that our responses during trials are recorded and cherished by Him. Ultimately, Bickle reveals that the Lord's heart is profoundly touched by our devotion, especially when we remain steadfast in love despite challenges.
Jesus' Beauty: A Poetic Description (Song 5.10-16)
By Mike Bickle2354:50Unwavering Love in TrialsThe Beauty of JesusSNG 5:10Mike Bickle explores the profound beauty of Jesus as depicted in Song of Solomon 5:10-16, emphasizing the bride's unwavering love for Him despite her trials and feelings of abandonment. He highlights that true love for Jesus transcends circumstances, focusing on His divine attributes and perfect leadership. The sermon encourages believers to declare the beauty of Jesus in their lives, especially during difficult times, and to recognize His compassion and unwavering presence. Bickle urges the congregation to internalize these truths, allowing them to shape their relationship with Christ and strengthen their faith.
The Father Heart of God
By Mike Bickle2250:26The Love of GodIntimacy With GodSNG 5:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the Father heart of God through the lens of the Song of Solomon, illustrating the deep love and longing between the bride and her beloved. He encourages believers to seek intimacy with God, even amidst trials, and to declare their love for Him despite challenges. The bride's journey reflects a shift from self-centeredness to recognizing that her life is a gift to Jesus, who finds pleasure in her devotion. Bickle highlights the importance of understanding God's attributes to cultivate a lovesick heart for Him, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship and a powerful witness to others. The sermon calls for believers to remain steadfast in love, even when they feel distant from God.
The Ultimate Twofold Test
By Mike Bickle2245:08Mature LoveTesting of FaithSNG 5:1Mike Bickle explores the profound themes of love and testing in the Song of Solomon, particularly focusing on the bride's journey of maturity and her relationship with the King. He emphasizes the 'ultimate twofold test' where the bride experiences a withdrawal of God's presence and a loss of her ministry, challenging her to love Him unconditionally despite her circumstances. Bickle highlights that true love for God is demonstrated not just in times of blessing but also in seasons of silence and adversity. The bride's response to these tests reveals her deep devotion and understanding of the King's beauty, ultimately leading to a richer relationship with Him. This sermon encourages believers to seek a mature love that persists through trials and to recognize the beauty of Christ in all circumstances.
Song of Solomon Part 8 (With Korean Translation)
By Mike Bickle1959:43Unwavering LoveTrials and TestingSNG 5:2Mike Bickle concludes the series on the Song of Solomon by emphasizing the importance of unwavering love for Jesus, even in times of testing and adversity. He illustrates how the bride's love is proven through two painful tests: the temporary absence of Jesus' presence and the wounds inflicted by spiritual authorities. Despite these challenges, she remains devoted and expresses her love, demonstrating that true love for Christ transcends circumstances. Bickle encourages believers to focus on the beauty and majesty of Jesus rather than their trials, ultimately revealing that a mature relationship with Him is about loving Him for who He is, not just for what He provides.
Confessing Our Love
By A.W. Tozer0Love Of ChristSeeking GodPSA 145:18SNG 2:1SNG 3:1SNG 5:16JER 29:13MAT 7:7JHN 15:13ROM 8:38JAS 4:8REV 3:20A.W. Tozer reflects on the profound love depicted in the Song of Solomon, illustrating the relationship between the beautiful young woman and her shepherd, which symbolizes the love of Christ for His Church. Despite being courted by a king, she remains loyal to her shepherd, representing the choice to seek true love over worldly allure. When she initially turns him away, her heart is troubled, leading her to search for him, ultimately confessing her love when she finds him. This narrative serves as a reminder of Christ's nearness and the importance of seeking Him with our whole hearts, as He longs for our love and devotion.
Is Your Love Alive?
By David Wilkerson0Prioritizing Time with GodLove for GodPSA 27:4SNG 5:6MAT 22:37JHN 15:15PHP 3:8JAS 4:81JN 4:19REV 3:20David Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of spending quality time in God's presence to keep our love for Him alive. He draws parallels between romantic love and our relationship with Jesus, highlighting how neglecting time with God can lead to a dying love. Wilkerson illustrates this with the example of the bride in the Song of Solomon, who desperately seeks her beloved, reflecting the longing we should have for Christ. He challenges Christians to consider how they prioritize their time and the implications of neglecting their relationship with Jesus. Ultimately, he calls for a rekindling of our love for God, urging us to make Him our top priority.
None Like Christ
By Octavius Winslow0The Supremacy of ChristIdolatry of the HeartSNG 5:9PHP 2:9Octavius Winslow emphasizes the unparalleled nature of Christ, urging believers to recognize His supreme worth compared to all earthly distractions and rivals. He explores the contrasts between Christ and the idols of self, the world, and the creature, asserting that nothing can compare to the glory, beauty, love, and salvation found in Jesus. Winslow challenges the audience to reflect on their affections and priorities, encouraging them to enthrone Christ in their hearts as the ultimate beloved. He concludes with a call to live in the awareness of Christ's preeminence in every aspect of life, reminding believers that there is truly 'none like Christ.'
Epistle 51
By George Fox0The CrossSpiritual DiscernmentPRO 1:20ECC 2:14SNG 5:10MAT 5:8LUK 9:23JHN 3:19ROM 5:5GAL 6:14EPH 4:151PE 1:41JN 2:15REV 21:27George Fox emphasizes the significance of the cross in overcoming the carnal nature, which is the source of falsehood and seduction. He explains that embracing the cross leads to a separation from worldly desires and opens the path to God, where true love and wisdom reside. Fox warns that those who love the world cannot possess the love of the Father, and he encourages believers to dwell in the eternal light to gain spiritual insight. He stresses the importance of living in the fear of the Lord to maintain a pure heart and to recognize the light that condemns evil deeds. Ultimately, Fox calls for vigilance in following God's guidance rather than succumbing to worldly temptations.
The Presence of a Compassionate God!
By Thomas Brooks0God's CompassionDivine MercyPSA 103:13SNG 5:1ISA 49:15LAM 3:22HEB 2:12Thomas Brooks emphasizes the unwavering presence of a compassionate God, whose mercies are essential and never fail, as highlighted in Lamentations 3:22. He describes God's nature as one of mercy, tenderness, and compassion, comparing it to the essential qualities of light and heat. Brooks illustrates the various forms of God's compassion—fatherly, motherly, brotherly, and friendly—showing how comforting it is for believers to experience such divine presence, especially in times of trouble. The sermon encourages believers to find solace in the knowledge that they are never alone, as they are accompanied by a God who delights in mercy and compassion.
Pleasure, Delight, Contentment and Satisfaction in God
By Thomas Brooks0Delight in GodHolinessPSA 37:4SNG 5:9SNG 5:16ISA 61:10PHP 4:11Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true pleasure, delight, contentment, and satisfaction in God are only experienced by those who are genuinely holy. He contrasts the fleeting pleasures sought by the covetous, ambitious, and worldly individuals with the profound joy that comes from a relationship with God. Brooks highlights that delighting in God is a noble and spiritual endeavor, reserved for the holy, who recognize His unparalleled beauty and worth. He encourages believers to find their ultimate satisfaction in God, as expressed in the Song of Solomon and Isaiah.
Yea, He Is Altogether Lovely
By C.H. Spurgeon0The Beauty of ChristDevotion to JesusPSA 27:4SNG 5:16ISA 53:2MAT 17:2JHN 1:14PHP 3:8COL 1:17HEB 1:31PE 2:7REV 5:12C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the unparalleled beauty and loveliness of Jesus, describing Him as the ultimate object of love rather than mere admiration. He invites believers to reflect on the sweetness of Christ's words and the perfection of His character, which captivates the hearts of His followers. Spurgeon asserts that every aspect of Jesus is attractive and worthy of adoration, contrasting Him with earthly beings that possess flaws. He encourages worshippers to love Jesus wholly, recognizing that He embodies perfection and is 'altogether lovely.' The sermon calls for a deep, affectionate devotion to Christ, who is the source of all beauty and goodness.
He Comes to His Garden
By Erlo Stegen0Spiritual GrowthIntimacy With GodPRO 13:24SNG 5:1ISA 35:1GAL 5:19Erlo Stegen emphasizes the intimate relationship between Jesus, the Bridegroom, and His people, urging believers to cultivate their spiritual gardens filled with the fruits of the Spirit. He warns against misinterpreting God's love and the consequences of neglecting spiritual growth, using examples of parenting and personal experiences to illustrate the importance of discipline and correction. Stegen highlights that true love for God is reflected in our actions and the fruits we bear, contrasting it with the dangers of living in sin. He challenges listeners to examine their own hearts and gardens, ensuring they are producing the sweet fruits of love, joy, and peace, rather than the thorns of the flesh. Ultimately, he calls for a life that glorifies God, as He seeks to find delight in our spiritual offerings.
Rev. 3:20. Christ's Loving Earnestness
By Horatius Bonar0Christ's LoveSpiritual AwakeningSNG 5:2ISA 1:18LUK 12:35JHN 14:23ACT 18:25ROM 12:11REV 3:20Horatius Bonar emphasizes Christ's loving earnestness in Revelation 3:20, where Jesus stands at the door and knocks, seeking to enter the hearts of the lukewarm Laodiceans. He highlights the church's need for awakening from spiritual slumber and the importance of responding to Christ's persistent call. Bonar illustrates Christ's love, patience, and earnestness, urging believers to open their hearts to Him, as He desires a personal relationship with each individual. The sermon conveys that Christ's invitation is for all, regardless of their spiritual state, and emphasizes the joy of communion with Him. Ultimately, Bonar reassures that Christ's promise to sup with those who open the door signifies a deep and abiding fellowship.
The Weeping Mary at the Sepulcre
By Samuel Rutherford0PSA 24:8SNG 5:2HOS 6:2MAT 7:7JHN 20:9ROM 12:2HEB 1:14Samuel Rutherford preaches on the importance of seeking Christ diligently, using the example of Mary Magdalene's persistent search for Jesus after His resurrection. He emphasizes the need for believers to wait on Christ, even in times of despair, and to continue seeking Him until they find Him. Rutherford highlights the significance of spiritual hunger and desire for Christ, encouraging believers to be fervent in their pursuit of Him. He also underscores the assurance that Christ belongs to His followers, even in moments of doubt or difficulty, and the importance of trusting in His salvation despite worldly challenges.
Loving Jesus (Know Jesus, and Make the Exchange: Himself for Your self.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Love for JesusKnowing ChristSNG 5:9JHN 17:31CO 6:17EPH 3:17PHP 3:10Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the profound love and relationship one can have with Jesus, contrasting it with fleeting human affections. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate that true love for Christ comes from truly knowing Him, which leads to a transformative exchange of self for His presence. Waldvogel encourages believers to seek a deeper connection with Jesus, as He is the source of joy and fulfillment, and stresses the importance of unity in the body of Christ. The sermon highlights that knowing Jesus is essential for eternal life and that He desires to fill our hearts with His love and power.
The Chief
By Thomas Brooks0Christ's ProvisionChrist as the Chief GoodPSA 61:3SNG 5:10MAT 9:12JHN 6:35JHN 7:37JHN 8:122TI 4:81PE 2:24Thomas Brooks emphasizes that Christ is the chief good, the ultimate source of all goodness for Christians. He illustrates how Christ fulfills every need, serving as bread for nourishment, a fountain for refreshment, a physician for healing, a rock for shelter, a light for guidance, and a crown for honor. This portrayal highlights the comprehensive nature of Christ's provision and care for His followers, affirming His unparalleled value in their lives.
Beside the Drying Brook
By F.B. Meyer0Trust in GodFaith1KI 17:31KI 17:9PSA 62:5SNG 5:1MAT 6:33JHN 4:13ACT 9:6F.B. Meyer explores the life of Elijah, emphasizing that he was an ordinary man who achieved extraordinary feats through faith and obedience to God. He highlights the importance of taking one step at a time in faith, learning the value of a hidden life of prayer, and trusting God absolutely, even when faced with challenges like drying brooks. Meyer encourages believers to recognize that God often leads them through periods of waiting and uncertainty to deepen their faith and reliance on Him. Ultimately, he reassures that God's provision is always present for those who remain faithful and receptive to His guidance.
Worship Series #5 "A Look at Our Worship of God"
By A.W. Tozer0The Beauty of GodWorshipPSA 45:2SNG 5:8A.W. Tozer concludes his worship series by emphasizing the beauty and majesty of God, drawing parallels between the Song of Solomon and the relationship between Christ and the Church. He highlights that true worship is not about what we can gain from God, but about recognizing His inherent worth and beauty. Tozer describes Jesus as the Lord of all wisdom, righteousness, and mercy, urging believers to worship Him for who He is rather than for what He can provide. He encourages the congregation to see the world through the lens of God's redemptive plan, reminding them that despite the ugliness of sin, Christ offers restoration and beauty. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a heartfelt worship that reflects the love and longing of the bride for her beloved.
My Friend
By Thomas Brooks0The Nature of GodFriendship with ChristPSA 46:1SNG 5:16ISA 41:10MAT 28:20JHN 15:15ROM 8:38HEB 13:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes that Christ is a universal Friend, highlighting His omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. He describes Christ as an unfailing, independent, and unchangeable Friend who is always watchful and compassionate. Brooks portrays the deep intimacy and faithfulness of Christ as a Friend, inviting believers to recognize the sweetness and loveliness of their relationship with Him. The sermon encourages listeners to appreciate the multifaceted nature of Christ's friendship and His unwavering support in their lives.
Christ's Garden
By C.H. Spurgeon0Spiritual GrowthSeparation from the WorldPSA 1:3SNG 5:1MAT 6:6JHN 15:1GAL 5:22EPH 2:10PHP 1:6COL 2:6JAS 4:82PE 3:18C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that the believer's heart is Christ's garden, purchased with His blood, and it should be a place of separation from the world. He urges Christians to cultivate their lives to produce the finest spiritual fruits, reflecting the beauty and excellence of Christ. Spurgeon highlights the importance of growth in grace and knowledge, encouraging believers to develop beyond mere buds and blossoms. He also calls for a retreat into the heart, allowing Christ to manifest Himself, contrasting the busy life of service with the need for quiet communion with Him. Ultimately, he prays for God's grace to nourish and water this sacred garden.
Personal Friendship With Christ
By J.R. Miller0Personal Relationship with ChristFriendship with GodSNG 5:16MAT 11:28JHN 15:15J.R. Miller emphasizes the significance of developing a personal friendship with Christ, arguing that true Christianity is not merely about doctrinal beliefs or moral conduct, but about forming an intimate relationship with Jesus as a living Savior. He illustrates that this friendship is essential for salvation and spiritual growth, as it allows believers to experience the fullness of God's love and grace. Miller encourages Christians to trust in Christ, which leads to a deeper love and understanding of Him, ultimately resulting in a transformative relationship that enriches their lives. He highlights that Christ desires this friendship and that it is through loving Him and keeping His words that believers can truly know Him. The sermon concludes by affirming that the friendship of Christ is the greatest blessing, offering profound joy and strength in the believer's life.
This Is My Beloved, and This Is My Friend
By Octavius Winslow0Jesus as BelovedComfort in SorrowSNG 5:16MAT 11:28Octavius Winslow emphasizes the dual nature of Jesus as both the Beloved and Friend of believers, highlighting His unique relationship with God and His church. He describes Jesus as the one who saves, comforts, and supports us in our sorrows, inviting us to lean on Him during our darkest times. Winslow encourages believers to cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ, recognizing His love and grace as a source of strength and hope. He reminds us that despite our failures, Jesus' love remains steadfast, providing a safe haven for our burdens. Ultimately, the sermon calls us to pursue holiness and a closer walk with Jesus, leading us toward eternal bliss.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Introduction
The bridegroom calls on his spouse to admit him, Sol 5:1-3. She hesitates; but arising finds him gone, seeks him, and is treated unworthily by the city watch, Sol 5:4-7. Inquires of the daughters of Jerusalem, who question her concerning her beloved, Sol 5:8, Sol 5:9. This gives her occasion to enter into a fine description of his person and accomplishments, Sol 5:10-16.
Introduction
Answer to her prayer (Isa 65:24; Rev 3:20). am come--already (Sol 4:16); "come" (Gen 28:16). sister . . . spouse--As Adam's was created of his flesh, out of his opened side, there being none on earth on a level with him, so the bride out of the pierced Saviour (Eph 5:30-32). have gathered . . . myrrh--His course was already complete; the myrrh, &c. (Mat 2:11; Mat 26:7-12; Joh 19:39), emblems of the indwelling of the anointing Holy Ghost, were already gathered. spice--literally, "balsam." have eaten--answering to her "eat" (Sol 4:16). honeycomb--distinguished here from liquid "honey" dropping from trees. The last supper, here set forth, is one of espousal, a pledge of the future marriage (Sol 8:14; Rev 19:9). Feasts often took place in gardens. In the absence of sugar, then unknown, honey was more widely used than with us. His eating honey with milk indicates His true, yet spotless, human nature from infancy (Isa 7:15); and after His resurrection (Luk 24:42). my wine-- (Joh 18:11) --a cup of wrath to Him, of mercy to us, whereby God's Word and promises become to us "milk" (Psa 19:10; Pe1 2:2). "My" answers to "His" (Sol 4:16). The myrrh (emblem, by its bitterness, of repentance), honey, milk (incipient faith), wine (strong faith), in reference to believers, imply that He accepts all their graces, however various in degree. eat--He desires to make us partakers in His joy (Isa 55:1-2; Joh 6:53-57; Jo1 1:3). drink abundantly--so as to be filled (Eph 5:18; as Hag 1:6). friends-- (Joh 15:15).
Introduction
INTRODUCTION TO SONG OF SOLOMON 5 This chapter begins with Christ's answer to the church's request; in which he informs her, that he was come into his garden, as she desired, and gives an account of what he had done there; and kindly invites his dear friends to feast with him there, Sol 5:1; Then she relates her case and circumstances, which followed upon this, her sleepy frame, and ungrateful carriage to her beloved; which he resenting, withdrew from her, and this gave her sensible pain, Sol 5:2; what treatment she met with from the watchmen; her charge to the daughters of Jerusalem; and the questions they asked about her beloved, Sol 5:7; which put her upon giving a large description of him, by each of his parts, head, hair, &c. Sol 5:10; And the chapter is concluded with a general commendation of him and his loveliness, and a claim of interest in Sol 5:16.
Verse 1
5:1 I have entered my garden . . . myrrh with my spices . . . honeycomb with my honey . . . wine with my milk: In penetrating the garden, the man finds that there is no limit to what he can enjoy. They are ecstatic over finally unlocking the vast enjoyment of intercourse. • drink deeply of your love! The young women of Jerusalem encourage the couple to enjoy their sexual union to the fullest; there can be no guilt or shame in the deepest pleasure between husband and wife.
Verse 2
5:2–6:3 One verse earlier, the couple are fully enjoying their intimate union. Now the woman feels the torment of separation. In the dramatic interpretation, the woman has been separated from the man twice before and has searched for him (1:4-7; 3:1-4). This last time, the separation takes place in her dreams—it is only a nightmare. Her dream seems to extend to 6:3, given the natural flow of questions and answers between the woman and the young women of Jerusalem. • If the Song is an anthology, these poems explore love rather than giving accounts of actual events. This poem reminds us that an intimate relationship is not always easy or perfectly satisfying.
5:2 I slept, but my heart was awake: This is an apt definition of a dream; she was physically asleep, but emotionally and psychologically awake. • my lover knocking . . . “Open to me”: Opening doors is a metaphor for sexual activity in the ancient Near East (see also 8:9). By describing the man as knocking at the door and requesting entry, the poem suggests that the man is requesting sexual union. He awaits permission; he does not presume.
Verse 4
5:4-6 My lover tried to unlatch the door, and my heart thrilled: The man persists in his attempts to arouse the woman, and she eventually responds positively to his overtures. However, by the time she responds, he has given up or become otherwise occupied. This is a powerful poetic picture of the struggles of two lovers to be sexually intimate with each other.
Verse 7
5:7 The night watchmen . . . beat and bruised me: The watchmen who were protectors in 3:3 now become demonized characters in her dream (5:2). What they do describes how she feels—pummeled and wounded. • stripped off my veil: She feels that she has lost her dignity.
Verse 8
5:8-9 The woman enlists the young women of Jerusalem to help her find her lover. They ask her to describe him, and this leads into the second descriptive poem (wasf) of the Song (see study note on 4:1–5:1).
5:8 I am weak with love: The woman’s trauma is an image for her lovesickness (cp. 2:5).
Verse 10
5:10-16 This extended portrayal of the lover in the Song emphasizes his worth to the woman.
5:10 dark and dazzling: He is radiantly healthy and deeply tanned. This description is not meant as an allusion to race; it likely reflects radiant health and exposure to the sun.
Verse 11
5:11-15 The woman describes the man as a statue made of gold, ivory, lapis lazuli, and marble pillars, suggesting that he is god-like in appearance, since statues of deities were composed of such precious metals in antiquity (Exod 32:1-4; 1 Kgs 12:28; Dan 2:32-33; 3:1).
Verse 13
5:13 His cheeks are like gardens of spices because they were covered by the full beard that was worn by all men of that culture. This beard would have been perfumed.
Verse 14
5:14 The man’s body is portrayed as beautiful and precious. • Beryl is an olive-green gem. • Lapis lazuli is a blue gem.
Verse 15
5:15 Lebanon was to the north of Israel and contained legendary cedar trees that were large, stately, and pleasantly fragrant.
Verse 16
5:16 The woman ends her description with an indication of her desire to kiss him.