Song of Solomon 8:9

Verse

If she is a wall, we will build a tower of silver to protect her. If she is a door, we will enclose her with panels of cedar.

American Standard Version (1901)

If she be a wall, We will build upon her a turret of silver: And if she be a door, We will inclose her with boards of cedar.

Bible in Basic English

If she is a wall, we will make on her a strong base of silver; and if she is a door, we will let her be shut up with cedar-wood.

Free Bible Version

If she is a wall, we will build a silver tower on it. But if she is a door, we will bar the way with cedar planks.

King James (Authorized) Version

If she be a wall, we will build upon her a palace of silver: and if she be a door, we will inclose her with boards of cedar.

Translation for Translators

If her chest is flat like [MET] a wall, we will decorate it by putting silver jewels that are like [MET] towers on it. Or, if she is flat like [MET] a door, we will decorate her with bits/pieces of cedar wood.

Unlocked Literal Bible

If she is a wall, we will build on her a tower of silver. If she is a door, we will adorn her with boards of cedar. The woman speaking to herself

Noah Webster Bible

If she is a wall, we will build upon her a palace of silver: and if she is a door, we will inclose her with boards of cedar.

World English Bible

If she is a wall, we will build on her a turret of silver. If she is a door, we will enclose her with boards of cedar.

Young's Literal Translation

If she is a wall, we build by her a palace of silver. And if she is a door, We fashion by her board-work of cedar.

Context

The Friends

⁸We have a little sister, and her breasts are not yet grown. What shall we do for our sister on the day she is spoken for? ⁹If she is a wall, we will build a tower of silver to protect her. If she is a door, we will enclose her with panels of cedar.

Summary

This verse expresses the desire of the bride to be a wall of protection for her beloved, emphasizing the strength and commitment of their love. It symbolizes the importance of unity and support in a relationship, highlighting the need for mutual care and defense. The imagery of a wall signifies security and steadfastness, reflecting the bride's willingness to stand by her beloved through all circumstances. Ultimately, it portrays the depth of love and loyalty that should characterize a healthy and enduring partnership.

Commentary

Tyndale

Tyndale Open Study Notes

8:9 wall: There appear to be two metaphorical meanings for this term: (1) The prepubescent girl’s chest is like a wall (see 8:10); and (2) until she is married, she should be abstinent, impenetrable like a wall. • protect her with a silver tower: Towers were used as lookouts for protecting the city; a silver one would be more prominent and impregnable. If the woman is already a wall, having kept her virginity, they will honor and reinforce her resolve. • On the other hand, a swinging door indicates promiscuity. The brothers will force her to restrain herself.