Song of Solomon 3
Song of Solomon 3 continues the poetic narrative of a deep longing and search for the beloved. It depicts the bride seeking her lover, first in a dream-like state and later leading to a joyous reunion. The chapter explores themes of love, desire, and union, highlighting the passionate pursuit and the fulfillment of love.
Song of Solomon 3:1-5 (NKJV)
1 By night on my bed I sought the one I love; I sought him, but I did not find him.
2 “I will rise now,” I said, “And go about the city; In the streets and in the squares I will seek the one I love.” I sought him, but I did not find him.
3 The watchmen who go about the city found me; I said, “Have you seen the one I love?”
4 Scarcely had I passed by them, When I found the one I love. I held him and would not let him go, Until I had brought him to the house of my mother, And into the chamber of her who conceived me.
5 I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, By the gazelles or by the does of the field, Do not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases.
The bride describes her yearning for her beloved, expressing her restlessness when she couldn’t find him. This search signifies a deep emotional longing, possibly in a dream. Her determination to find him drives her to wander the city streets, asking the watchmen for help. Once she finds him, she holds him tightly, symbolizing the strength and importance of their love. The mention of bringing him to her mother’s house could reflect a desire for intimacy and commitment. The final verse calls for patience in love, urging that love not be rushed but allowed to grow naturally.
Song of Solomon 3:6 (NKJV)
6 Who is this coming out of the wilderness Like pillars of smoke, Perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, With all the merchant’s fragrant powders?
This verse introduces a majestic and awe-inspiring image of the bridegroom arriving in splendor. The wilderness symbolizes a place of trial or separation, but now he emerges in victory. The pillars of smoke and the perfumes evoke a sense of luxury and richness, suggesting that this is a royal or divine procession. The myrrh and frankincense are symbols of wealth and honor, often used in royal ceremonies or worship, further emphasizing the groom’s elevated status.
Song of Solomon 3:7-8 (NKJV)
7 Behold, it is Solomon’s couch, With sixty valiant men around it, Of the valiant of Israel.
8 They all hold swords, Being expert in war. Every man has his sword on his thigh Because of fear in the night.
Here, the groom is revealed to be Solomon, riding in a royal carriage surrounded by his mighty warriors. The mention of sixty men reflects a sense of strength, protection, and authority. These men are prepared for any threat, symbolizing how the groom and his love are protected and secure. The fear in the night suggests that even in the face of danger, Solomon’s presence ensures safety and security for the bride.
Song of Solomon 3:9-10 (NKJV)
9 Of the wood of Lebanon Solomon the king Made himself a palanquin:
10 He made its pillars of silver, Its support of gold, Its seat of purple, Its interior paved with love By the daughters of Jerusalem.
The palanquin, a royal carriage, is described as being crafted with the finest materials—wood from Lebanon, silver, gold, and purple fabrics—symbolizing royalty, wealth, and nobility. The interior, “paved with love,” indicates that this is not merely an opulent display but one filled with affection and care. The involvement of the daughters of Jerusalem highlights the communal celebration of love and the grandeur of Solomon’s arrival.
Song of Solomon 3:11 (NKJV)
11 Go forth, O daughters of Zion, And see King Solomon with the crown With which his mother crowned him On the day of his wedding, The day of the gladness of his heart.
The chapter concludes with an invitation to witness King Solomon in his wedding glory. The crown placed on him by his mother signifies the honor and joy of his royal wedding day. It is a moment of great celebration, not only for the couple but for the entire community. The “day of the gladness of his heart” highlights the joy and fulfillment found in love and commitment, closing the chapter with a sense of completion and happiness.