Song of Solomon 1
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1The Song of songs, which is Solomon’s. 2Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth; for your love is better than wine. 3Your oils have a pleasing fragrance. Your name is oil poured out, therefore the virgins love you. 4Take me away with you. Let us hurry. The king has brought me into his rooms. Friends We will be glad and rejoice in you. We will praise your love more than wine! Beloved They are right to love you. 5I am dark, but lovely, you daughters of Jerusalem, like Kedar’s tents, like Solomon’s curtains. 6Don’t stare at me because I am dark, because the sun has scorched me. My mother’s sons were angry with me. They made me keeper of the vineyards. I haven’t kept my own vineyard. 7Tell me, you whom my soul loves, where you graze your flock, where you rest them at noon; For why should I be as one who is veiled beside the flocks of your companions? 8If you don’t know, most beautiful among women, follow the tracks of the sheep. Graze your young goats beside the shepherds’ tents. 9I have compared you, my love, to a steed in Pharaoh’s chariots. 10Your cheeks are beautiful with earrings, your neck with strings of jewels. 11We will make you earrings of gold, with studs of silver. 12While the king sat at his table, my perfume spread its fragrance. 13My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh, that lies between my breasts. 14My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms from the vineyards of En Gedi. 15Behold, you are beautiful, my love. Behold, you are beautiful. Your eyes are doves. 16Behold, you are beautiful, my beloved, yes, pleasant; and our couch is verdant. 17The beams of our house are cedars. Our rafters are firs.
World English Bible (public domain)
“"Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is better than wine;"”
Song of Solomon 1:2
Summary
Song of Solomon chapter 1 introduces the poetic dialogue between the Shulammite woman and her beloved, often interpreted as King Solomon. The chapter opens with the woman's passionate longing and admiration for the love of her beloved, emphasizing the purity and depth of their connection. This love is celebrated as more delightful than wine, symbolizing its overwhelming joy and sweetness. The woman's desire is marked by a sense of humility as she reflects on her unworthiness yet is confident in the mutual affection shared. The imagery used conveys themes of beauty, longing, and the magnetic attraction between two lovers. Their love is seen not just as physical attraction but also as a profound companionship that is both personal and intimate. The chapter portrays love as multifaceted, involving admiration, longing, and delight in one another's presence. The woman expresses her desire to be with her beloved, eager to escape to a place of connection and intimacy away from public observation. The chapter sets the tone for a love that is both celebrated and revered, highlighting its sacredness and exclusivity. The beloved responds affirmatively, reflecting mutual devotion. Theologically, the chapter elevates human love as a reflection of divine love—passionate, intense, and personal. This parallels the relationship between God and His people, wherein there exists an intimate yearning and celebration of togetherness. It encourages readers to appreciate love as a profound gift, characterized by purity and joy.
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