Song of Songs 5 Study Notes

5:10-16 This section contains tenfold praise that moves downward from head to feet, enclosed by comprehensive summary praise in v. 10 and v. 16b. The praise of Solomon’s mouth in v. 16 is not likely an interruption of the movement since it is apparently a praise of his speech and not his literal lips that are praised in v. 13 (see note at 2:2-3). This section is in chiastic balance with the tenfold praise of Shulamith that moves upward from feet to head (7:1-5, see outline in the Introduction).

5:10 Fit and strong is literally “radiant and red”; the opposite of a sallow complexion is a ruddy, glowing one, implying fitness and strength. Among ten thousand is clearly a ratio emphasizing uniqueness.

5:11 Gold is consistent with the lustrous radiance, and its color and value are paramount in the metaphor. The Hebrew word translated wavy may be associated with “palm leaves,” a precursor to the palm tree simile of Shulamith in 7:7.

5:12 Eyes . . . like doves is the only identical praise of each by the other (1:15; 4:1). Each had eyes expressing love. Whereas the other aspects of Shulamith’s praise are expanded at most by one phrase, this simile is expanded by three: beside flowing streams, washed in milk and set like jewels (lit “perched over a pool”). The phrases contribute to imagery of happy, loving eyes. They also possibly allude to the power of love that triumphs over waters of chaos (8:6-7). Doves looking at rushing streams become doves perched over still water, with reflections of doves looking back to their source (Craig Glickman, Solomon’s Song of Love).

5:13 The visual metaphors of vv. 11-12 give way to more sensual, aromatic ones in this verse: fragrant spices and perfume describe Solomon’s cheeks; liquid myrrh drips from his lips. Lilies are literally life-giving “lotus flowers” (see note at 2:1). Shulamith praised Solomon’s fragrant, intoxicating kisses.

5:14 His arms are literally “his hands,” and the rods of gold are likely his fingers, a metaphor in praise of Solomon’s valued touch. His body (lit “his abdomen”) is hard and polished like ivory, but rippled, as if covered with lapis lazuli.

5:15 Alabaster was a valuable mineral normally used for small objects, so its use to create massive pillars emphasizes value, just like gold, ivory, or sapphires. Pillars imply legs of grandeur and strength. The pedestals of pure gold of Solomon’s feet show gold from head to toe, a visual metaphor for his complete desirability (v. 16).

5:16 Mouth is likely a reference to speech (see note at 2:2-3). The affirmation of love and friendship intertwined continues the theme begun in 1:9 (see note there).