Song of Solomon 7:8

Verse

I said, “I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit.” May your breasts be like clusters of the vine, the fragrance of your breath like apples,

American Standard Version (1901)

I said, I will climb up into the palm-tree, I will take hold of the branches thereof: Let thy breasts be as clusters of the vine, And the smell of thy breath like apples,

Bible in Basic English

I said, Let me go up the palm-tree, and let me take its branches in my hands: your breasts will be as the fruit of the vine, and the smell of your breath like apples;

Free Bible Version

I tell myself, “I will climb the palm tree and take hold of the fruit.” May your breasts be like bunches of grapes on the vine, and your breath have the scent of apples!

King James (Authorized) Version

I said, I will go up to the palm tree, I will take hold of the boughs thereof: now also thy breasts shall be as clusters of the vine, and the smell of thy nose like apples;

Translation for Translators

I said to myself, “I will climb that palm tree and take hold of those clusters of dates.” To me, your breasts are like clusters of grapes that I can feel and your breath is like the sweet fragrance of apples

Unlocked Literal Bible

I said, “I want to climb that palm tree; I will take hold of its branches.” May your breasts be like clusters of grapes, and may the fragrance of your nose be like apricots.

Noah Webster Bible

I said, I will go up to the palm tree, I will take hold of its boughs: now also thy breasts shall be as clusters of the vine, and the smell of thy nose like apples;

World English Bible

I said, “I will climb up into the palm tree. I will take hold of its fruit.” Let your breasts be like clusters of the vine, the smell of your breath like apples.

Young's Literal Translation

I said, 'Let me go up on the palm, Let me lay hold on its boughs, Yea, let thy breasts be, I pray thee, as clusters of the vine, And the fragrance of thy face as citrons,

Context

Admiration by the Bridegroom

⁷Your stature is like a palm tree; your breasts are clusters of fruit. ⁸I said, “I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit.” May your breasts be like clusters of the vine, the fragrance of your breath like apples, ⁹and your mouth like the finest wine. The Bride May it flow smoothly to my beloved, gliding gently over lips and teeth.

Summary

In this verse from the Song of Solomon, the beloved describes the Shulammite's eyes as those of a dove. This poetic imagery symbolizes purity, gentleness, and beauty, reflecting the deep admiration and affection the beloved has for the Shulammite. The comparison to a dove suggests innocence and grace, highlighting the captivating nature of the Shulammite's gaze. This verse showcases the romantic and intimate language used throughout the Song of Solomon to depict the love between the two lovers.

Commentary