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Song of Solomon 2

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‹ Chapter 1 Song of Solomon — All Chapters Chapter 3 ›

The Bride’s Admiration

The Bride

1I am a rose of Sharon,a

 a lily of the valley.

The Bridegroom

2Like a lily among the thorns

 is my darling among the maidens.

The Bride

3Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest

 is my beloved among the young men.
I delight to sit in his shade,
 and his fruit is sweet to my taste.
4He has brought me to the house of wine,b
 and his banner over me is love.

5Sustain me with raisins;

 refresh me with apples,
 for I am faint with love.

6His left hand is under my head,

 and his right arm embraces me.
7O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you
 by the gazelles and does of the field:
Do not arouse or awaken love
 until the time is right.

8Listen! My beloved approaches.

 Look! Here he comes,
leaping across the mountains,
 bounding over the hills.
9My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag.
 Look, he stands behind our wall,
gazing through the windows,
 peering through the lattice.

10My beloved calls to me,

 “Arise, my darling.
 Come away with me, my beautiful one.
11For now the winter is past;
 the rain is over and gone.
12The flowers have appeared in the countryside;
 the season of singing c has come,
and the cooing of turtledoves
 is heard in our land.
13The fig tree ripens its figs;
 the blossoming vines spread their fragrance.
Arise, come away, my darling;
 come away with me, my beautiful one.”

The Bridegroom

14O my dove in the clefts of the rock,

 in the crevices of the cliff,
let me see your face,
 let me hear your voice;
for your voice is sweet,
 and your countenance is lovely.

The Friends

15Catch for us the foxes—

 the little foxes that ruin the vineyards—
 for our vineyards are in bloom.

The Bride

16My beloved is mine and I am his;

 he pastures his flock among the lilies.
17Before the day breaks and shadows flee,
 turn, my beloved,
and be like a gazelle
 or a young stag on the mountains of Bether.d

Footnotes

1a Sharon Plain is a region in the coastal plain of Israel

4b That is, the banquet hall

12c Or pruning

17d Or the rugged mountains

‹ Chapter 1 Song of Solomon — All Chapters Chapter 3 ›

Study Notes — Song of Solomon 2

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the beloved describing herself as a rose of Sharon and a lily of the valleys, emphasizing her humility and simplicity. She then expresses her desire to be with her lover, comparing him to a gazelle or a young stag, highlighting his swiftness and agility. The lover responds by praising the beloved's beauty, comparing her to a garden filled with exotic spices and fruits. He invites her to arise and come away with him, to explore the beauty of nature together. The chapter concludes with the beloved warning her lover to flee, lest he be caught by the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, symbolizing the dangers of premature or unguarded love. Throughout the chapter, the language is rich and evocative, conveying the depth of emotion and the intensity of the relationship between the beloved and her lover, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:1-17.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of the Song of Solomon, which is a poetic exploration of the love between two people. The chapter is situated within the context of the biblical wisdom literature, which emphasizes the importance of wisdom, discernment, and virtue in relationships. The chapter also has connections to the broader biblical narrative, including the story of creation and the relationship between God and humanity, as seen in Genesis 2:18-25 and Ephesians 5:25-33.

Heart Application

This chapter invites the reader to reflect on the nature of love and relationships, and to consider the importance of cultivating a deep and abiding connection with others. The chapter also emphasizes the need to guard against the dangers of premature or unguarded love, and to cultivate wisdom and discernment in relationships. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the beauty and wonder of love, and the profound impact that it can have on our lives.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter of Song of Solomon is about the deep love between two people, and how they long to be together. The woman compares herself to a flower, and the man compares her to a beautiful garden. They want to explore the world together and enjoy each other's company, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:10-13. The chapter reminds us of the beauty of love and the importance of guarding against danger.

Voices from the Church

“The Song of Solomon is a book that 'sets forth the mutual love of Christ and his church, and the way in which that love is manifested.'”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The Song of Solomon is a 'most excellent song' that 'presents to us the love of Christ and the church in the most vivid and expressive terms.'”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to the Beloved (2:1-2) — The beloved describes herself as a rose of Sharon and a lily of the valleys, emphasizing her humility and simplicity.
  2. The Lover's Praise of the Beloved (2:3-6) — The lover praises the beloved's beauty, comparing her to a garden filled with exotic spices and fruits.
  3. The Invitation to Arise and Come Away (2:7-10) — The lover invites the beloved to arise and come away with him, to explore the beauty of nature together.
  4. The Warning to Guard Against Danger (2:11-15) — The beloved warns her lover to flee, lest he be caught by the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, symbolizing the dangers of premature or unguarded love.
  5. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (2:16-17) — The chapter concludes with the beloved expressing her desire to be with her lover, and the lover responding with a promise to be with her always.

Core Doctrines

The Doctrine of Love
This chapter teaches us about the nature of love, emphasizing the importance of mutual affection and admiration in relationships, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:10-17.
The Doctrine of Wisdom
The chapter also emphasizes the importance of wisdom and discernment in relationships, warning against the dangers of premature or unguarded love, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:15.
The Doctrine of Christ and the Church
The chapter can be seen as a reflection of the love between Christ and the church, with the beloved representing the church and the lover representing Christ, as seen in Ephesians 5:25-33.
The Doctrine of Sanctification
The chapter reminds us of the importance of cultivating a deep and abiding relationship with Christ, and of guarding against the destructive influences of the world, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:15.

Lessons from Song of Solomon 2

  1. The Importance of Mutual Affection — The chapter emphasizes the importance of mutual affection and admiration in relationships, highlighting the depth of emotion and commitment between the beloved and the lover.
  2. The Need for Wisdom and Discernment — The chapter warns against the dangers of premature or unguarded love, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment in relationships.
  3. The Beauty of Love — The chapter reminds us of the beauty and wonder of love, and the profound impact that it can have on our lives.
  4. The Importance of Guarding Against Danger — The chapter emphasizes the need to guard against the destructive influences of the world, and to cultivate a deep and abiding relationship with Christ.
  5. The Reflection of Christ and the Church — The chapter can be seen as a reflection of the love between Christ and the church, with the beloved representing the church and the lover representing Christ.

Themes from Song of Solomon 2

  1. Love and Relationships — The chapter explores the nature of love and relationships, emphasizing the importance of mutual affection and admiration.
  2. Wisdom and Discernment — The chapter emphasizes the need for wisdom and discernment in relationships, warning against the dangers of premature or unguarded love.
  3. Christ and the Church — The chapter can be seen as a reflection of the love between Christ and the church, with the beloved representing the church and the lover representing Christ.
  4. Sanctification and Growth — The chapter reminds us of the importance of cultivating a deep and abiding relationship with Christ, and of guarding against the destructive influences of the world.
  5. The Beauty of Nature — The chapter uses vivid descriptions of nature to convey the beauty and wonder of the beloved and the lover, and to highlight the depth of their emotions.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does the chapter reveal about the nature of love and relationships?
  2. How does the chapter emphasize the importance of wisdom and discernment in relationships?
  3. What does the chapter teach us about the love between Christ and the church?
  4. How can we apply the principles of this chapter to our own relationships and lives?
  5. What are some potential dangers or pitfalls that we should guard against in our relationships, according to the chapter?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to the Beloved (2:1-2)

2:1 The beloved describes herself as a rose of Sharon and a lily of the valleys, emphasizing her humility and simplicity.
2:2 The beloved compares herself to a lily among thorns, highlighting her uniqueness and beauty.

2. The Lover's Praise of the Beloved (2:3-6)

2:3 The lover praises the beloved's beauty, comparing her to an apple tree among the trees of the forest.
2:4 The lover invites the beloved to sit in his shadow, emphasizing his desire to be with her and to protect her.

3. The Invitation to Arise and Come Away (2:7-10)

2:7 The beloved warns her lover not to stir up or awaken love until it is ready, emphasizing the need for patience and self-control.
2:8 The lover is described as leaping over the mountains and bounding over the hills, highlighting his swiftness and agility.

4. The Warning to Guard Against Danger (2:11-15)

2:11 The beloved warns her lover that the winter is past and the rains are over, emphasizing the changing of the seasons and the need for new beginnings.
2:12 The beloved describes the flowers that are appearing on the earth, highlighting the beauty and wonder of nature.

5. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (2:16-17)

2:16 The beloved expresses her desire to be with her lover, emphasizing her love and commitment to him.
2:17 The beloved invites her lover to turn and be like a gazelle or a young stag, highlighting her desire for him to be swift and agile in his pursuit of her.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of this chapter?

The main theme of this chapter is the love between the beloved and her lover, and the importance of mutual affection and admiration in relationships, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:1-17.

What does the chapter teach us about wisdom and discernment in relationships?

The chapter warns against the dangers of premature or unguarded love, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment in relationships, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:15.

How does the chapter relate to the broader biblical narrative?

The chapter can be seen as a reflection of the love between Christ and the church, with the beloved representing the church and the lover representing Christ, as seen in Ephesians 5:25-33.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Song of Solomon 2:1 → Genesis 2:18-25 The description of the beloved as a rose of Sharon and a lily of the valleys is reminiscent of the creation story, where God creates a helper for Adam, emphasizing the importance of relationships and community.
2 Song of Solomon 2:10 → John 1:1 The invitation to arise and come away is similar to the call of Jesus to his disciples, emphasizing the importance of following him and pursuing a deep and abiding relationship with him.
3 Song of Solomon 2:15 → Proverbs 4:23 The warning to guard against the little foxes that ruin the vineyards is similar to the warning in Proverbs to guard your heart, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and discernment in relationships.
4 Song of Solomon 2:16 → Ephesians 5:25-33 The expression of love and commitment between the beloved and her lover is reminiscent of the love between Christ and the church, emphasizing the importance of mutual affection and admiration in relationships.
5 Song of Solomon 2:17 → Psalm 18:33 The description of the lover as a gazelle or a young stag is similar to the description of God as a rock and a redeemer, emphasizing the importance of strength and agility in pursuing a deep and abiding relationship with him.
6 Song of Solomon 2:1 → Isaiah 35:1-2 The description of the beloved as a rose of Sharon and a lily of the valleys is reminiscent of the prophecy of the desert blossoming like a rose, emphasizing the importance of hope and redemption in relationships.
7 Song of Solomon 2:10 → Matthew 9:15 The invitation to arise and come away is similar to the call of Jesus to his disciples, emphasizing the importance of following him and pursuing a deep and abiding relationship with him.
8 Song of Solomon 2:15 → 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 The warning to guard against the little foxes that ruin the vineyards is similar to the warning in 1 Corinthians to guard against the dangers of love that is not patient, kind, or selfless, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and discernment in relationships.
9 Song of Solomon 2:16 → Colossians 3:14 The expression of love and commitment between the beloved and her lover is reminiscent of the love between Christ and the church, emphasizing the importance of mutual affection and admiration in relationships.
10 Song of Solomon 2:17 → Hebrews 12:1-2 The description of the lover as a gazelle or a young stag is similar to the description of Jesus as the author and perfecter of our faith, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and endurance in pursuing a deep and abiding relationship with him.

Sermons on Song of Solomon 2

SermonDescription
Carter Conlon Speak to the Foxes by Carter Conlon This sermon emphasizes the importance of addressing the 'little foxes' in our lives that can hinder our testimony for Christ. It highlights the need to deal with small compromises,
Mike Bickle Forerunners With the Bridal Paradigm by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding the 'Bridal Paradigm' in the context of the Kingdom of God, which invites believers into a deep, intimate relationship with
Mike Bickle 02 Delighting in the Lord: Enjoying God (Song 2:3-5) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle emphasizes the theme of delighting in the Lord through the Song of Solomon, illustrating that spiritual pleasure and enjoyment of God are foundational truths often over
Mike Bickle 12 the Bride's Identity and Life Purpose (Song 2:1-7) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle explores the profound themes of identity and purpose in the Song of Solomon, emphasizing that the bride's true identity is found in being Jesus's inheritance. He highli
Mike Bickle Challenging the Comfort Zone by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle challenges the congregation to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a deeper relationship with God, as illustrated in the Song of Solomon. He emphasizes that kno
Mike Bickle 13 Challenging the Comfort Zone (Song 2:8-17) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle explores the theme of challenging our comfort zones through the lens of the Song of Solomon, emphasizing that spiritual sincerity does not equate to maturity. He highli
Mike Bickle Song of Solomon Part 5 (With Korean Translation) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones in his sermon on the Song of Solomon, illustrating how the bride's journey reflects our own spiritual gro
Mike Bickle 14 God's Loving Discipline (Song 3:1-5) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle discusses God's loving discipline as depicted in Song of Solomon 3:1-5, emphasizing the relationship between the Shulamite maiden and King Solomon as a metaphor for the
Mike Bickle Song of Solomon Part 4 (With Korean Translation) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle emphasizes the bride's identity in Christ, illustrating how she sees herself as the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valley, reflecting her spiritual relationship wit
Ralph Erskine The Spiritual Feelings of Believers and Hypocrites Compared by Ralph Erskine Ralph Erskine delves into the difference between the pleasant spiritual impressions peculiar to true believers and those that hypocrites may have in the ways of religion. He emphas

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Song of Solomon 2

In this chapter, we see the beloved and her lover expressing their deep affection and admiration for one another. The beloved describes herself as a rose of Sharon and a lily of the valleys, emphasizing her humility and simplicity. The lover praises her beauty, comparing her to a garden filled with exotic spices and fruits. The chapter also includes a warning to guard against the dangers of premature or unguarded love, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment in relationships. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the beauty and wonder of love, and the profound impact that it can have on our lives. We are also invited to reflect on the nature of love and relationships, and to consider the importance of cultivating a deep and abiding connection with others, as seen in Song of Solomon 2:1-17. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Use of Nature Imagery

The chapter is filled with vivid descriptions of nature, including flowers, gardens, and wildlife. This imagery is used to convey the beauty and wonder of the beloved and the lover, and to highlight the depth of their emotions.

The Mutual Affection and Admiration

The chapter emphasizes the mutual affection and admiration between the beloved and the lover, highlighting the depth of their love and commitment to one another.

The Warning to Guard Against Danger

The chapter includes a warning to guard against the dangers of premature or unguarded love, emphasizing the need to cultivate a deep and abiding relationship that is grounded in wisdom and discernment.

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