1 By night on my bed I sought him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not.
2 I will rise now, and go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I will seek him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not.
3 The watchmen that go about the city found me: [to whom I said], Saw ye him whom my soul loveth?
4 [It was] but a little that I passed from them, but I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go, until I had brought him into my mother’s house, and into the chamber of her that conceived me.
5 I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awake [my] love, till he please.
6 Who [is] this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant?
7 Behold his bed, which [is] Solomon’s; threescore valiant men [are] about it, of the valiant of Israel.
8 They all hold swords, [being] expert in war: every man [hath] his sword upon his thigh because of fear in the night.
9 King Solomon made himself a chariot of the wood of Lebanon.
10 He made the pillars thereof [of] silver, the bottom thereof [of] gold, the covering of it [of] purple, the midst thereof being paved [with] love, for the daughters of Jerusalem.
11 Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart.
Overview of Song of Solomon Chapter 3
Chapter 3 of the Song of Solomon presents a vivid and poetic exploration of love, longing, and desire. The chapter is structured around a dream sequence that reflects the emotional and physical aspects of romantic relationships. The imagery and symbolism employed throughout the chapter enhance the themes of love and yearning.
Key Themes
- Longing and Search: The chapter opens with the beloved searching for her lover, symbolizing the deep yearning that characterizes romantic love.
- Dreams and Reality: The dream motif highlights the interplay between desire and reality, blurring the lines between the two as the beloved seeks her lover.
- Romantic Imagery: Rich and sensual imagery is used to convey the beauty and intensity of love, emphasizing both physical attraction and emotional connection.
Structure and Literary Devices
The chapter is divided into distinct sections that contribute to its overall narrative flow:
- The Search (Verses 1-3): The beloved describes her restless search for her lover during the night, emphasizing her deep desire and longing.
- The Encounter (Verses 4-5): After searching, she finally finds her lover, leading to a moment of joy and fulfillment. The passage highlights the importance of love and connection.
- The Celebration of Love (Verses 6-11): The chapter culminates in a celebration of love, with vivid descriptions of the beloved’s beauty and the grandeur of their relationship.
Symbolism and Imagery
Throughout the chapter, various symbols and images are used to enhance the themes of love and desire:
- The Night: The night represents longing and the unknown, a time when desires are heightened and the search for love becomes more intense.
- The City: The city setting symbolizes the social context of love, where relationships are both celebrated and challenged.
- Chariots and Kings: The imagery of chariots and royalty elevates the beloved and their love to a grand and noble status, suggesting that love is both powerful and transcendent.
Character Analysis
The chapter features two primary characters: the beloved and her lover. Their interactions and emotions provide insight into their relationship:
- The Beloved: She is portrayed as passionate, determined, and deeply in love. Her search for her lover reflects her commitment and desire for connection.
- The Lover: While not directly present in the search, his eventual appearance represents fulfillment and the joy of love. He is idealized and revered by the beloved.
Conclusion
Chapter 3 of the Song of Solomon is a rich tapestry of love, desire, and emotional depth. Through its vivid imagery and poetic structure, the chapter captures the essence of romantic longing and the joy of connection. The interplay between dreams and reality, along with the celebration of love, makes this chapter a profound exploration of human relationships.
