1 How beautiful are thy feet with shoes, O prince’s daughter! the joints of thy thighs [are] like jewels, the work of the hands of a cunning workman.
2 Thy navel [is like] a round goblet, [which] wanteth not liquor: thy belly [is like] an heap of wheat set about with lilies.
3 Thy two breasts [are] like two young roes [that are] twins.
4 Thy neck [is] as a tower of ivory; thine eyes [like] the fishpools in Heshbon, by the gate of Bathrabbim: thy nose [is] as the tower of Lebanon which looketh toward Damascus.
5 Thine head upon thee [is] like Carmel, and the hair of thine head like purple; the king [is] held in the galleries.
6 How fair and how pleasant art thou, O love, for delights!
7 This thy stature is like to a palm tree, and thy breasts to clusters [of grapes].
8 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;
9 And the roof of thy mouth like the best wine for my beloved, that goeth [down] sweetly, causing the lips of those that are asleep to speak.
10 I [am] my beloved’s, and his desire [is] toward me.
11 Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages.
12 Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, [whether] the tender grape appear, [and] the pomegranates bud forth: there will I give thee my loves.
13 The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gates [are] all manner of pleasant [fruits], new and old, [which] I have laid up for thee, O my beloved.
Overview of Song of Solomon Chapter 7
Chapter 7 of the Song of Solomon continues the exploration of love, beauty, and desire between the beloved and her lover. This chapter is rich in imagery and metaphor, emphasizing the physical and emotional aspects of romantic love.
Structure and Themes
The chapter can be divided into several key themes and sections:
- Physical Beauty: The chapter opens with a detailed description of the beloved’s physical attributes, celebrating her beauty.
- Desire and Intimacy: The expressions of desire are prominent, showcasing the deep emotional and physical connection between the lovers.
- Nature Imagery: The use of nature metaphors enhances the sensuality and romantic atmosphere of the chapter.
- Mutual Admiration: There is a reciprocal appreciation between the lovers, highlighting the importance of both partners in the relationship.
Detailed Analysis
1. Celebration of Beauty
The chapter begins with vivid descriptions of the beloved’s body, using metaphors that evoke natural beauty:
- Feet: The beloved’s feet are compared to “jewels,” indicating their value and the care she takes in her appearance.
- Thighs: The comparison of her thighs to “pearls” suggests both strength and elegance.
- Breasts: The imagery of her breasts as “clusters of grapes” symbolizes fertility and sensuality.
2. Expressions of Desire
The lover expresses a deep longing for the beloved, emphasizing the physical and emotional aspects of their relationship:
- Intimate Language: The language used is passionate and intimate, reflecting a strong desire for closeness.
- Invitation to Enjoyment: The lover invites the beloved to engage in the pleasures of love, reinforcing the theme of mutual desire.
3. Nature Imagery
Nature plays a significant role in the imagery throughout the chapter:
- Gardens and Vines: References to gardens and vines symbolize growth, fertility, and the nurturing aspect of love.
- Fruits and Scents: The mention of fruits and pleasant scents enhances the sensory experience of love and attraction.
4. Mutual Admiration
The chapter emphasizes the reciprocal nature of love, where both partners admire each other:
- Compliments: The lovers exchange compliments, highlighting their appreciation for each other’s beauty.
- Emotional Connection: The mutual admiration deepens their emotional bond, showcasing the importance of both physical and emotional attraction in their relationship.
Conclusion
Chapter 7 of the Song of Solomon is a profound exploration of love that intertwines physical beauty, desire, and mutual admiration. The rich imagery and metaphors create a vivid picture of the lovers’ relationship, emphasizing the importance of both partners in celebrating their love. The chapter serves as a testament to the beauty of romantic love and the deep connections that can be formed through physical and emotional intimacy.
