Song of Solomon 1:8

Verse

If you do not know, O fairest of women, follow the tracks of the flock, and graze your young goats near the tents of the shepherds.

American Standard Version (1901)

If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, Go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, And feed thy kids beside the shepherds’ tents.

Bible in Basic English

If you have not knowledge, O most beautiful among women, go on your way in the footsteps of the flock, and give your young goats food by the tents of the keepers.

Free Bible Version

If you really don't know, you who are more beautiful than any other woman, then follow the tracks of my flock, and let your goats graze near the shepherd's tents.

King James (Authorized) Version

¶ If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy kids beside the shepherds’ tents.

Translation for Translators

You who are the most beautiful of all the women, if you search for me and do not know where I will take my sheep, follow the tracks/footprints of the sheep. Then allow your young goats to ◄graze/eat grass► near the shepherds’ tents.

Unlocked Literal Bible

If you do not know, most beautiful among women, follow the tracks of my flock, and pasture your young goats near the shepherds' tents.

Noah Webster Bible

If thou knowest not, O thou fairest among women, go forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy kids beside the shepherds tents.

World English Bible

If you don’t know, most beautiful among women, follow the tracks of the sheep. Graze your young goats beside the shepherds’ tents.

Young's Literal Translation

If thou knowest not, O fair among women, Get thee forth by the traces of the flock, And feed thy kids by the shepherds' dwellings!

Context

The Friends

⁷Tell me, O one I love, where do you pasture your sheep? Where do you rest them at midday? Why should I be like a veiled woman beside the flocks of your companions? ⁸If you do not know, O fairest of women, follow the tracks of the flock, and graze your young goats near the tents of the shepherds.

Sermons

A Believer's Identity in God's Beauty

Mike Bickle

Summary

In this verse, the beloved expresses her longing for her lover, comparing him to a flock of goats descending from Gilead. This imagery signifies her admiration for his strength, beauty, and nobility. The use of pastoral metaphors conveys a sense of tranquility and natural beauty in their relationship. Overall, this verse captures the deep affection and desire between the lovers, portraying a romantic and intimate connection.

Commentary

Tyndale

Tyndale Open Study Notes

1:8 The man’s first words in this poem lovingly pacify the woman’s anxiety by giving directions to where she should meet him. • The man desires to be with her and tells her to come under the guise of a goatherd, following the trail of his flock.