My Beloved Is Like A Fragrant Pouch Of Myrrh Spending The Night Between My Breasts.

“While the King was at his banqueting table, my nard gave forth its fragrance. My beloved is like a fragrant pouch of myrrh spending the night between my breasts. My beloved is like a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En Gedi.” Song of Solomon 1:12-14 NET

This amazing love story revolves around two captivating figures: the Shulamite girl, an embodiment of beauty and innocence, and the King, often associated with Solomon, known for his unparalleled wisdom and majestic charm. Their bond is marked by an extraordinary mutual affection that elevates their relationship beyond the ordinary, creating a tapestry of deep emotional resonance.

The King is utterly smitten by the Shulamite girl, drawn to her striking physical beauty and vibrant spirit, which shines brightly in his eyes. In a world filled with splendor, she represents the ultimate treasure to Him, evoking His admiration and devotion. In return, her heart beats in perfect rhythm with his, overflowing with an intensity of fierce and tender Love.

Their connection blossoms through the evocative language they share, rich in poetic imagery and lyrical metaphors that breathe life into their emotions. Each phrase exchanged becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of their love story, illustrating their deep longing and the joy of their shared moments. In verses 12-14, the Shulamite girl takes center stage, weaving a tapestry of vivid images with her words that capture the essence of desire and intimacy. These descriptions unfold like a delicate flower, revealing layers of meaning and passion that invite reflection. Through her expressive language, readers are granted glimpses of her profound Love for the King and their romantic connection’s unique and vibrant dynamics, highlighting the beauty in their hearts.

It is unmistakable that a sumptuous meal is being served, illustrated by the phrase “when the king was at His banqueting table.” The term “table” in Hebrew evokes the image of a round table. This significant detail suggests a setting of inclusiveness and fellowship, where each guest enjoys equal honor and is seen. In this regal atmosphere, the King sits surrounded by his chosen guests, while His beloved bride is also present, symbolizing her cherished place among the elite gathering.

This grand scene not only highlights the magnificence of King Solomon during his forty-year reign of unparalleled peace and prosperity but also serves as a prophetic reflection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself drew comparisons to Solomon’s wisdom to underscore His own divine authority, as seen in Matthew 12:42: “The queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon—and now, something greater than Solomon is here!” Despite this profound declaration, the Pharisees of His day failed to recognize the extraordinary truth presented before them.

Moreover, Jesus’s willingness to break bread with diverse people, including those often shunned, such as sinners and tax collectors, was revolutionary. These gatherings sparked heated debates among the Pharisees, who adhered to strict social and religious norms. In extending His invitation to the marginalized, Jesus illuminated His profound compassion, teaching that everyone deserves Love, acceptance, and grace regardless of their station in life. This personal invitation to dine at His table powerfully underscores that we are each valued and chosen by Him.

Isn’t it comforting that Jesus welcomes sinners to His table, creating a space where we can find meaning, belonging, and acceptance? He has made room for each of us at the banqueting table, extending His grace and inviting fellowship into our lives.

While the details of the meal remain undisclosed in this text—suggesting that the essence of the gathering lies not in the food but in the relationships cultivated—one can easily envision the richness of laughter, conversation, and joy that fills the air. This gathering symbolizes a deep and abiding love between a young girl and her bridegroom, her devoted Shepherd and exalted King. This union exemplifies the profound bond of Love and reverence that binds them together, illuminating the beauty of connection within this sacred banquet.

The phrase “My nard is giving forth its fragrance” evokes the rich imagery of spikenard, an esteemed aromatic plant mentioned only three times in scripture. In Hebrew, this plant is called ‘nard,’ a word that captures the essence of its captivating scent. Spikenard is prized for its sweet and intoxicating aroma, yet it is not indigenous to Israel; instead, it is imported from distant lands, such as India. This rarity and the effort required to obtain it render spikenard an exquisite and costly treasure.

In the text context, the Shulamite girl embodies both beauty and spiritual richness, and her wearing of this lavish fragrance signifies a profound connection to the divine. The Hebrew expression for “giving forth its fragrance,” ‘na-than,’ conveys a sense of active generosity—it suggests that her perfume is not merely present but vibrantly exuding its delightful scent into the surrounding air. The Hebrew word for fragrance, ‘re-ach,’ resonates closely with the word for spirit, ‘ru-ach.’ This phonetic similarity deepens the understanding of fragrance as a tangible expression of the divine, evoking a sense of awe, wonder, and reverence for the Holy Spirit’s presence.

This vivid imagery is a powerful metaphor for the intimate communion believers can experience with the Lord Jesus. Opening our hearts to the Holy Spirit is akin to being enveloped in His divine aroma, which fills the room, creating an atmosphere rich with His Love and grace. As I sit at the table with the King, who sovereignly rules over my heart and life, His Love, joy, and peace unfurl like blossoms in spring, transforming my experience into a radiant delight.

Her luxurious, expensive perfume signifies not just the sweet aroma but a remarkable manifestation of the Holy Spirit working within her, and by extension, us. This imagery resonates strongly with the poignant scene in John 12:3, where it is written: “Then Mary took three quarters of a pound of expensive aromatic oil from pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus. She then wiped His feet dry with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfumed oil.” This beautiful devotion illustrates how genuine worship and deep Love for Christ can saturate a space, creating an atmosphere of spiritual significance and divine presence.

The elements of praise shared between the bride and the bridegroom deepen and mature as we journey through this beautiful song. Jesus embodies a love for the Church that transcends human comprehension, offering adoration that infinitely surpasses our attempts to equal it. Yet, we strive earnestly to honor Him through our heartfelt devotion, pouring out our Love and reverence from the very depths of our souls.

In the evocative phrase, “My beloved is like a fragrant pouch of myrrh, spending the night between my breasts,” we encounter a rich metaphor steeped in intimacy and affection. Some translations lovingly refer to Him as “my well-beloved,” derived from the Hebrew word “dod,” which etymologically shares its roots with “David,” a name synonymous with Love. This connection brings forth another root word that means “to boil,” illustrating the passionate intensity of this Love. She expresses, “My love for Him is so profound that it makes my heart boil with warmth and fervor.” Her devotion is anything but cold or tepid; it blazes with an ardent and unwavering flame, and throughout the book, she tenderly calls Him her beloved, again and again.

When she declares, “…a bundle of myrrh is my beloved,” she paints a vivid picture of her adoration. What she omits is notable: the King is not merely a single sprig of myrrh but an entire bundle rich with fragrance and value. The Hebrew word “bundle” can also be interpreted as a bag or pouch of myrrh, suggesting a sense of fullness and abundance that enriches this imagery. This portrayal underscores a great truth—we cannot confine Jesus to being just one of anything. He is a wellspring of blessings, continuously showering us in grace and Love, reflecting His nature as an eternal blesser. He generously multiplies His gifts, wrapping us in His overwhelming affection. Thus, the King is not merely a symbol of Love; He is a breathtakingly rich and full bundle of myrrh, encapsulating the depth and richness of His unwavering Love and boundless blessings.

In the Old Testament, harvesting myrrh involved skillfully making incisions in the rugged bark of Commiphora trees. This careful incision allowed the fragrant resin to flow, eventually forming nature’s exquisite drops, or “tears,” that would harden into distinct lumps. These precious globs of resin, known as myrrh gum, were highly prized for their captivating aroma and essential role in ancient burial customs, where they were used in embalming the deceased. Beyond this, dried myrrh could be ignited and burned, releasing a rich, earthy incense that filled places of worship with a spiritual fragrance, elevating the atmosphere of reverence and devotion.

In a profoundly personal and spiritual context, I envision my beloved as a bundle of myrrh—a striking metaphor that evokes profound meaning. The Commiphora tree acts as a powerful type and shadow of Jesus Christ; just as the tree is pierced, signifying sacrifice and suffering, so too was Jesus pierced on the cross, unleashing His blood and the living water of grace for all of humanity.

When Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea tenderly prepared Jesus’ lifeless body for burial, they used myrrh, underscoring its significance as a sacred offering honoring the dead. As I meditate on the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice, I am reminded that He is a precious bundle of myrrh to me—a compelling symbol of His boundless, unwavering Love.

As part of the Church, I reflect on the astounding magnitude of His Love for me: how He selflessly shed His blood to atone for my sins, endured excruciating torment, and the piercing pain of the crown of thorns that dug into His brow. I envision the heart-wrenching moment He was pierced upon the cross, enduring unimaginable suffering—all executed out of His profound Love for every individual. This understanding enriches the spiritual application of the verse: a bundle of myrrh is my beloved unto me, illuminating the exquisite intertwining of beauty, sacrifice, and divine Love. My beloved is a bundle of myrrh to me.

In the Song of Solomon, the phrase “…spending all night between my breasts” embodies a pure, Godly, and wholesome intimacy that may initially seem provocative but, upon closer examination, reflects a deep emotional connection. The term ‘breasts’ refers specifically to the Shulamite girl, appearing five times throughout the text. This is not meant to be lewd or sexualized; instead, it evokes a sense of closeness and a tactile richness that invites us to explore our sensuality in a spiritual context.

As members of the Church, we are beckoned to forge an intimate bond with our Savior, one that fills our hearts with Love and longing. To illustrate this, envision the various spaces within our homes, which serve as metaphors for the different facets of our hearts. Do we merely allow Jesus to recline in the living room, a space for lighthearted conversations and fleeting exchanges? Or do we invite Him into the kitchen, a place steeped in warmth and nourishment, where we share meals and forge connections, yet perhaps still keep a distance?

Consider the closets and bookshelves of our hearts, where cherished memories and hidden secrets reside, often tucked away behind closed doors. Are we brave enough to invite Jesus into these private spaces or reserve them for ourselves? Most importantly, do we allow Jesus entry into the bedroom of our hearts—the sanctum where our most intimate thoughts and emotions come to life? This space, rich with vulnerability, is not to be interpreted in an oversexualized context but rather as a sacred realm of deep emotional and sensual connection.

We must face the truth: we are inherently sensual beings, deeply attuned to the significance of touch, affirmation, warmth, and the devotion we give and receive from others. This realization goes beyond merely admitting our vulnerabilities; it underscores our humanity and our essential emotional and physical needs. Love, a gentle touch, and meaningful acts of affection are not just luxuries but fundamental components of our well-being. These nurturing connections foster a sense of belonging, comfort, and emotional safety, crucial for our mental and physical health. Properly embracing these needs within proper boundaries allows us to cultivate deeper relationships and navigate the complexities of life with greater resilience and joy.

As the Shulamite girl awakens to His desires for her, we, too, can become acutely aware of our King’s heart and passionate embrace. His yearning for a genuine connection resonates, urging us to invite His presence into every corner of our lives. By engaging with this metaphor of divine intimacy, we enrich our spiritual journey, allowing His Love to envelop us and infuse every moment and every aspect of our heart with meaning and depth, reinforcing our relationship’s profound significance with our King.

Some early preachers interpreted the phrase “spending the night” in the context of the cultural understanding of nighttime to convey that we are currently navigating a world steeped in spiritual darkness and moral uncertainty. This notion encapsulates the various struggles humanity endures—temptations that lead to sin and the pervasive shortcomings of society. The Apostle Paul thoughtfully expanded on this theme in his letter to the Philippians, particularly in Philippians 2:14-15, where he writes: “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without blemish, even though you live in a crooked and perverse society, in which you shine like lights in the world.” In this passage, Paul encourages believers to maintain a position of trust in the Lord in faith by responding righteously in Christ, emphasizing the believers’ role as beacons of hope and integrity amidst a corrupt world.

Some translations beautifully capture the sentiment with the phrase “lie between my breasts.” Here, the word “lie” can also be interpreted as “lodge,” “abide,” or “remain,” each offering a nuanced sense of closeness and permanence. To be nestled near or between the Shulamite girl’s breasts symbolizes not only an intimate connection of Love but also a deep, resonant tie to her heart. It conveys a profound trust, allowing for a sacred communion with her beloved throughout the night, where every shared moment becomes a thread in the tapestry of their bond.

I find myself captivated by the image of the King, regal and tender, leaning in to listen to the gentle, rhythmic heartbeat of the Shulamite girl for the entire night. This poignant scene evokes a profound sense of intimacy and connection, suggesting a bond far beyond physical presence. It beautifully mirrors the deep, abiding Love that the Lord Jesus holds for each of us—a love that radiates warmth, tenderness, and unwavering devotion.

In my heart, I believe that the Lord yearns to rest His head against our breasts, attuning Himself to the soft, steady pulse of our hearts. This intimate gesture is a powerful reminder of the closeness and sacred relationship He desires with us. In this moment, He hears and feels every heartbeat, intimately aware of our innermost thoughts and longings, enveloping us in complete acceptance and unconditional Love.

We find comfort and reassurance within this sacred relationship, knowing we are embraced and truly understood. Ultimately, Jesus’ deepest desire is for us to be transformed into His likeness, sharing His character and purpose in the most meaningful and profound ways, reflecting His goodness and Love in our lives.

In expressing her desires, it is as if she conveys her heartfelt yearning: “I long to be intimately connected with Him. I wish to unveil my most cherished secrets and reveal my innermost vulnerabilities to Him. I want Him to understand the full spectrum of my being—my strengths that empower me and my weaknesses that humble me. I trust Him completely with the delicate essence of my heart, cradled gently between my breasts.” This imagery paints a vivid picture of her longing for an unguarded connection and emotional safety, highlighting the depth of her feelings and the sacredness of their relationship together.

“My beloved is like a cluster of henna blossoms in the vineyards of En Gedi,” a region renowned for its lush landscapes and intoxicating scents. She tenderly calls Him her beloved (dod), a term that conveys profound affection and intimacy. This expression vividly illustrates the extravagant nature of their Love for one another, akin to the opulence in the natural world surrounding them.

Henna blossoms on the henna plant are delicate flowers ranging from soft white to gentle pink hues, forming fragrant clusters that release a sweet, captivating aroma. Throughout history, these blossoms have been treasured for their delightful fragrance and artistic application in creating natural dyes for textiles and intricate body art. In ancient cultures, their beauty was often celebrated in literature, including the evocative verses of the Song of Solomon, where they symbolize Love, joy, and enchanting beauty.

“Henna” as a name serves as a modern variation of the classic name Hannah, meaning “grace” or “favor,” symbolizing the belief that grace is a precious gift from the divine. Additionally, the henna ceremony plays a significant role in some Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish communities, where the application of intricate henna designs on the bride’s hands and feet occurs. This vibrant celebration embodies joy and goodwill, marking the beauty of new beginnings in marriage, and is affectionately known as “Hina.” Each design tells a story of Love and tradition, further enriching their shared lives.

En Gedi, during King Solomon’s reign, was a prominent settlement known for its strategic location, agricultural wealth, and trade routes. Its lush palm trees, vibrant flora, and nourishing freshwater springs made it a unique and essential hub for the surrounding communities, enhancing its significance in ancient trade and culture, as noted in Joshua 15:62. This verdant oasis, the largest along the western shore of the Dead Sea, boasts a rich and intricate history that spans nearly 5,500 years, dating back to the Chalcolithic period around 3500 BC. The stark contrast between its greenery and the surrounding arid landscapes highlights its uniqueness and importance. En Gedi was designated for the tribe of Judah as part of the land allotments specified in biblical accounts. Archaeological excavations have uncovered many artifacts that reveal the diverse cultures surrounding this remarkable oasis and underscore its vital role throughout history. En Gedi is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of those who thrived in this extraordinary environment.

Henna, renowned for its fragrant blossoms, is evocative of beauty and artistry; however, within this discussion, we focus on the term “Ko-pher,” which carries profound significance in Hebrew. The word כֹּ֫פֶר (ko-pher) is layered with meaning, encompassing concepts such as ransom, the price of a life, and even bribery. Additionally, it refers to pitch—the thick, black substance used by Noah to seal his ark against the tumultuous waters—and henna itself, celebrated for its rich dyeing qualities and ability to impart vibrant colors.

The etymological root, כָּפַר (ko-pher), translates to “to cover,” a notion that resonates deeply throughout the biblical texts. In scripture, the root of the word, כָּפַר (ka-pher), means “to cover”. Eight times the word is translated “ransom” in the bible, and two times it is translated “satisfaction.”  Interpreting (ka-pher) from a different vowel point, it is the word for “atonement,” illustrating the complete and transformative act of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. Through His suffering, He embraced the weight of our rebellion and entirely covered our sins, offering us profound grace and restoration.

The verses we have looked at today eloquently depict a passionate devotion and enduring Love for the Shulamite girl’s divine King, vividly illustrating the generosity and fulfillment He extends to her. In 2 Corinthians 2:15, the Apostle Paul beautifully expresses, “For we are a sweet aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” This powerful imagery paints us as a fragrant cluster of henna flowers, embodying the richness of life and devotion we offer to our King. It signifies the intimacy and oneness forged between the believer and the beloved, highlighting the sacred bond nurtured in His presence and Love, two becoming one flesh.

Stephen Barnett