In The Clefts Of The Rock Of The mountain, Let Me See Your Face!

“O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the hiding places of the mountain crags, let me see your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely. Catch the little foxes that ruin the vineyards for us, the little foxes—for our vineyard is in bloom. My lover is mine and I am his; he grazes among the lilies. Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee, turn, my beloved—be like a gazelle or a young stag on the mountain gorges.” Song of Solomon 2:14-17 NET

“O my dove,” symbolizes a profound tenderness in romantic relationships, a motif frequently found in ancient Near Eastern love literature. The term “my dove” underscores a deep emotional connection and affection. Just as Solomon was captivated by the gentle call of the turtledove in verse twelve, he now longs to hear her voice, indicative of his yearning for intimate fellowship and communication.

In the ancient world, doves were often characterized as timid and defenseless creatures. Their vulnerability made them creatures of habit, readily seeking refuge in safe, elevated places like crevices and cliffs. This behavioral pattern highlights their need for security in a harsh environment. A poignant illustration of this concept can be found in Jeremiah 48:28b, which advises, “…Be like a dove that makes its nest high on the sides of a ravine.”

The emphasis on timidity and the instinct for safety is clearly presented in the imagery of this “dove” seeking solace within the “clefts of the rock” and finding shelter in “the hiding places of the mountain crags.” This description conveys the dove’s fragility and reflects the beloved’s desire to offer protection and peace, suggesting that true love provides a safe haven amidst life’s challenges.

In the opening passage above, Solomon addresses the young Shulamite woman, a profound metaphor for Jesus speaking to His Church. When He tenderly calls her “O my dove,” it illustrates the intimate and loving relationship between the Lord Jesus and His followers. Earlier in the text, He noted that she possessed “dove’s eyes,” emphasizing her purity and beauty; now, by referring to her as a “dove,” he elevates this imagery to signify beauty, faithfulness, and love.

Doves are remarkable creatures known for their graceful appearance and serene demeanor. The sunlight striking their feathers creates a breathtaking iridescence, a captivating display of colors that can symbolize the divine light of Christ shining upon the Church. Just as doves exhibit captivating beauty, the Church, in the presence of Jesus Christ—the ultimate source of light and truth—shines even more brightly, reflecting His glory and righteousness. In Christ’s eyes, we are seen as beautiful and worthy.

Moreover, doves are characterized by their monogamous nature; they mate for life, which underscores the idea of unwavering commitment and loyalty. This quality is a powerful reminder of Jesus's faithfulness for His Church. He looks upon us with love and joy when we remain rooted and steadfast, avoiding the temptations of false gods that the world presents to us to try to separate us from Him. Jesus longs for us to be immovable in our desire for Him, exemplifying a deep, abiding faith.

In addition, doves are known for their agility and quickness in flight, enabling them to evade danger effectively. This aspect symbolizes the Church’s need to be alert and quick to respond to spiritual challenges that threaten us. According to Mosaic law, doves are classified as clean animals, noted for their preference to avoid carrion and refuse. In the same way, the Church is called to maintain its purity and holiness, shunning the allure of worldly entrapments that can compromise its integrity and mission. This rich imagery reflects profound spiritual truths: beauty, faithfulness, vigilance, and purity—all integral elements defining the extraordinary relationship between Jesus and His Church.

“In the clefts of the rock,” the Hebrew word for ‘clefts’ is “khagavim,” which refers to serene places of concealment, sanctuaries of safety, and havens of rest. In this imagery, Solomon beautifully conveys that God’s love is found within these protected recesses, where one can hide from life’s storms. The hymn writer Fanny Crosby poignantly captured this profound sentiment in her timeless hymn from the 1890s, “He hideth my soul in the clefts of the rock.” This lyrical expression emphasizes the comforting truth that Jesus serves as our unwavering refuge. He is our rock of ages, a steadfast foundation amid the shifting sands of life, and the rock higher than I, providing shelter for the weary soul.

This imagery is further illuminated by Proverbs 18:10, which declares, “The name of the Lord is like a strong tower; the righteous person runs to it and is set safely on high.” The reference to “the secret places of the stairs” found in the King James version envisions a mighty fortress with ascending steps, signifying a faith journey that invites believers to grow spiritually, one deliberate step at a time. Each stair step represents an opportunity for growth, as we seek refuge in our Savior and deepen our understanding of His grace.

Moreover, within the richness of the book of Psalms, there are fifteen distinct songs known as the Songs of Ascents, covering Psalms 120 to 134. These psalms, often called the stair-step psalms, present a beautiful sequence that outlines God’s divine plan for spiritual growth. They guide us through the heart’s complex emotions—from urgent cries for divine intervention to profound expressions of gratitude—ultimately drawing us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Together, these sacred songs serve as a spiritual road map, encouraging us to find solace in the divine and to ascend in our faith, ever mindful of the love that hides us safely within the clefts of the rock.

Solomon is loving her, He is admiring her, calling her a beautiful gorgeous little dove, and He is recognizing that she has placed herself into His capable hands, underneath her are His everlasting arms, He then asks this of her, “let me see your face,” which means appearance, some scholars also attribute this word for face “mareh” to represent form, or figure. In other words, Christ enjoys every part of the Church; He loves the Church. He said if two or more people are gathered, I will be there with them. “Let me see your face.” The enemy will tell you that you’re ugly, that you are not to be desired in His eyes, or that you’re a hypocrite. “Let me see your face, let me hear your voice.” Did you ever stop to think that Jesus loves hearing our voice? I believe that the Lord is pleased when we pray. Malachi 3:16 ends with a discussion between Godly men: “Then those who respected the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord took notice. A scroll was prepared before him in which were recorded the names of those who respected the Lord and honored his name.” The Lord does take notice when we speak with Him and pray.

As Solomon tenderly addresses His beloved young bride, He invites her with a heartfelt plea, “Let Me hear your voice,” followed by the affectionate affirmation, “for your voice is sweet.” The term “sweet” conveys a pleasing sound and the rich warmth of their connection, suggesting that her words resonate deeply within Him. He lovingly declares, “My darling, your voice is so pleasant,” encapsulating the emotional bond that flourishes between them.

When we, as the Church, turn our thoughts to our relationship with Jesus, it prompts a reflective question: How long has it been since we took the time to speak with Him in earnest prayer or engage in sincere worship, sharing our love and adoration? This moment of contemplation encourages us to grasp the significance of these sacred exchanges and their impact on our spiritual lives.

Solomon further deepens the intimacy of his expression by saying, “and your face is lovely.” Here, the term “face” transcends its literal meaning; it signifies countenance, form, or the unique expression that reflects her inner beauty. The word “lovely,” synonymous with “becoming” or “beautiful,” adds layers to His admiration, painting a picture of an enchanting presence that captivates His heart. His invitation, “Let Me hear your voice; let Me see your lovely face,” expresses a deep desire to connect with her on multiple levels, illustrating their relationship’s aesthetic and emotional beauty.

In a spiritual context, it becomes clear that He values the melodic beauty of our voices in prayer and worship and the genuine expression reflected in our faces. This suggests that He longs for us to engage with Him intentionally and authentically. He delights in seeing our faces, us being deliberately present, illuminated with joy, sincerity, and openness, when we are fully present with Him. Such moments reveal the profound beauty of our communion, highlighting the importance of vulnerability, heartfelt communication, and the precious bond we share in devotion.

Another way to interpret these verses is to see the clefts of the rock as symbols of difficult or isolated places. The Shulamite girl may be enduring a “rocky time” with her brothers and potentially with the other young maidens who may feel envious or critical of her unique bond with Solomon. This relationship has set her apart, granting her a special status they all desire but have not attained.

During this challenging period, the rocks or crags can represent the various obstacles, hardships, and emotional trials she faces, much like the struggles we all encounter. Each rock symbolizes a challenge, whether it be misunderstanding, feelings of inadequacy, or external pressures from her peers. Or it could even be health issues like Job encounterd;

When confronted with trials or difficult circumstances, it’s important to remember that our Lord is always by our side, even when we find ourselves in the hardest of places. He is a constant presence amid our struggles, offering support when the adversary seeks to overwhelm us. In these moments of distress, He reaches out to us with reassurance, saying, “Let me hear your voice. Do not hesitate to ask me for strength, help, guidance, and direction, because your voice is sweet and worthy of my attention. I long to hear from you. I understand that you are navigating a difficult situation, and I am fully aware of what you are going through.” In every trial, He is always present, ready to provide the encouragement and the faith we need to persevere.

“Catch the little foxes for us, those that ruin the vineyards, for our vineyard is in bloom.” This plea reveals the Shulamite girl’s profound concern for herself and her relationship. Throughout chapter one, we learned that her brothers have treated her with callousness and scorn, imposing the heavy responsibility of tending the family vineyard upon her. This relentless labor under the harsh sun has left her skin weathered and darkened, a testament to her obedience and their neglect.

In this intimate metaphor, the vineyard symbolizes not merely a physical plot of land but the essence of her identity—her body, soul, and spirit. The little foxes that scamper through the vineyards represent the insidious threats that can infiltrate one’s life, joyfully prancing and gnawing at the vulnerable buds and roots, jeopardizing their potential for flourishing and growth. Surprisingly, these cunning creatures are drawn to grapes even though they pose a toxic risk to canines, highlighting their reckless and self-destructive nature. If these pests are left unchecked, they could ravage an entire vineyard, underscoring the urgent need for protection and attentive care.

The Shulamite girl urgently entreats Solomon to capture or seize the little foxes, signifying her desire to protect her well-being from these harmful influences. This request echoes the Gospel story in which the Pharisees warned Jesus about the threat posed by Herod. In reply, Jesus firmly stated, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Look, I am casting out demons and performing healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will complete my work’” (Luke 13:32). In this narrative, the ‘foxes’ symbolize not only the Shulamite’s internal struggles but also the external dangers that threaten her identity and purpose, mirroring how Herod’s ambitions were a threat to Jesus’s mission of redemption.

Often characterized as wily and cunning, Foxes embody a deceptive and destructive force that disrupts order. This symbolism evokes the sinister manipulations of King Herod, whose treacherous actions ultimately shaped the destiny of our Savior. The phrase “The Little Foxes that ruin the vineyards” is a striking reminder of the insidious threats that can ruin one’s livelihood, but metaphorically unravel the fabric of one’s life. The term ‘ruin’ or ‘destroy’ appears seven times throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing the urgent need to identify and confront these lurking dangers before they lead to irrevocable harm.

When the Shulamite girl passionately proclaims, “Our vineyard is in bloom,” her intentional choice of the plural form evokes a deeply intimate connection with her beloved. Through this vivid metaphor, she defines herself as a flourishing vineyard, articulating, “I am your vineyard, and you are always welcome to visit me. I long to bear sweet fruit, desiring that my blossoms be fragrant for you. I belong to you; everything I possess is yours.” Her use of possessive and plural phrases—like “our vines”—signifies her eagerness to share her entire inner being with her Bridegroom. This heartfelt expression reveals her profound love, unwavering devotion, and desire to cultivate a rich, abiding relationship steeped in mutual affection and connection.

Our relationship with Jesus mirrors this beautiful dynamic. The King James Version poignantly states, “Our vines have tender grapes,” suggesting that these grapes are still developing, maturing, and mellowing. This reflects a deep longing for spiritual growth, underscoring our desire for the fruit of our faith to fully ripen. As the Shulamite draws closer to her Bridegroom, she becomes acutely aware of the “little foxes” that threaten to encroach upon her vineyard—symbolic of the minor sins and imperfections that can quietly erode the vitality of her relationship with her Bridegroom.

Many believers may navigate through many years of their spiritual journey, blissfully unaware of these subtle imperfections, often due to their distance from Jesus. They know much about Him but lack a deep intimacy with Him. These little foxes can appear insignificant, easily overlooked amid life’s much larger and more daunting challenges. Yet recognizing and addressing them is crucial for authentic spiritual growth. King David poignantly expresses this need for self-examination and vigilance in Psalm 139:23-24, where he implores, “Examine me, O God, and probe my thoughts. Test me, and know my concerns. See if there is any idolatrous way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.” Such prayers for introspection and vigilance against the little foxes require an intimate relationship with Jesus. They are cultivated in moments spent in His presence, in the clefts of the rock.

The further our relationship with Him deepens, the more we yearn to hear Him whisper, “I want to hear your voice. I want to see your face.” When He tenderly declares, “O My beloved, I love you with all of my heart,” it ignites an unquenchable longing to draw ever closer, a willingness to surrender everything within us to Him. Only then can our hearts echo the prayer, “Lord, reveal to me the little foxes in our vineyard—any sins that You wish to expose and address in my heart and life.” This yearning reflects our commitment to nurturing a thriving relationship with Christ, ensuring our spiritual vines flourish, blossom, and bear abundant, sweet fruit.

She continues, “My lover is mine and I am his; he grazes among the lilies.” This phrase, “My lover is mine,” encapsulates a profound and passionate love that resonates deeply, akin to the Greek term “dode,” suggesting an intense, fiery boiling love. The apostles Paul and Peter would eloquently describe this sentiment as ‘fervent love,’ emphasizing its vibrant and soulful essence, making clear that such love is anything but lukewarm. When we profess, “My lover is mine,” we acknowledge that Jesus and the Holy Spirit have intricately intertwined themselves into the fabric of our hearts and lives the moment we embraced faith in Christ Jesus. He becomes our personal Savior, an unwavering provider, a protective guardian, and a wise teacher. He is our beloved; He is distinctly and intimately ours.

Regrettably, many professing believers remain unaware of the profound depths of this transformative relationship. The timeless hymn “Blessed Assurance,” by Fanny Crosby in 1873, beautifully encapsulates this resonance in its opening line: “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine.” This phrase communicates a robust sense of joy and certainty that should envelop our faith. Those who do not fully immerse themselves in the wonder of having Jesus as their own risk missing out on an incredible blessing that can shape the trajectory of their lives. This captures our heartfelt declaration: “My lover, my beloved, is mine, and I am His.”

The first step along the Christian journey is the intimate realization that Jesus is personally yours; the second—a more profound understanding that many Believers never quite grasp—is the recognition that we uniquely belong to Him. The phrase “He grazes (or feeds) among the lilies” is a beautiful metaphor, ingeniously illustrating the invitation for Jesus to dwell in the details of our lives. It conveys an open-hearted sentiment: “You are welcome to enter my life at any moment; feel free to explore the intricacies of my home, my bookshelf, or browse through my collection of magazines. Please, come and ‘graze among the lilies.’”

Did I not mention that the lilies bloom in striking shades of red and white in the earlier verses? In the Israel Valley, what are commonly referred to as “red lilies” are not true lilies but the red poppy-anemone, known in Hebrew as calanit. In January, the fields are covered with the blood-red flowers of the anemone, and they also come in white, pink, and violet. These vibrant red flowers blanket the fields, especially in the spring, and have become the national flower of Israel.

This striking imagery paints a picture of a King, a figure of divine grace and nobility, peacefully grazing among these vibrant flowers, their colors dancing in the light. This scene resonates deeply with the profound message found in Isaiah 1:18: “Come, let’s consider your options,” says the Lord. “Though your sins have stained you like the color red, you can become white like snow; though they are as scarlet, you can become white like wool.”

This passage beautifully underscores the hope of redemption, illustrating the stark contrast between the weight of sin and the promise of spiritual renewal. It invites anyone to embrace the possibility of transformation and grace.

In this vibrant relationship, we worship Him with all our hearts, engaging in a joyful celebration of grace and love. Every possession I hold that He desires is His to take freely. The word “graze” evokes serene images of lush pastures, where He meanders lovingly among the lilies, admiring their delicate beauty. This imagery serves as a rich analogy for how Jesus interacts with our daily lives, indicating His eagerness to connect with us deeply. He does not merely visit; He delights in witnessing how we embody and reflect the grace of God in our lives, creating a deepening faith and love that flourishes with each passing day.

She makes one final, heartfelt request: “until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee.” This phrase resonates deeply, transcending mere recognition of passing time. It encapsulates our collective struggle in a world shrouded in darkness—an ominous atmosphere that feels like hope has been obscured. Yet, beneath this veil of despair, there remains a flicker of optimism; dawn will come, and the creeping shadows of fear and uncertainty will eventually recede.

In this tumultuous era, the evil prince of this world seems to wield an overwhelming influence, casting a long shadow over our existence. In response, we are called to rise as beacons of light, radiating the transformative love of Jesus through our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. This light becomes a powerful counter to the surrounding darkness, reminding us of our mission to endure and illuminate the path until the day of Jesus’ triumphant return—a day filled with the promise of healing and renewal.

The words that follow, “turn my beloved,” emerge from her lips laden with longing and urgency. She desperately pleads: “Turn back to me, my Beloved. The oppressive darkness surrounds me, and I yearn for Your comforting presence. Each day that unfolds seems to spiral deeper into wickedness, and my heart aches for You to return. You are my everything, and I am Yours; please, I implore You, return to me.” This deep yearning echoes the profound sentiment found in Revelation 22:20: “…even so, come, Lord Jesus,” capturing an enduring hope for divine intervention and solace.

The Hebrew word for “beloved,” “dode,” is particularly evocative. As previously mentioned, it embodies an intense and passionate love, like a simmering fire that cannot be contained. It speaks of an all-consuming devotion, a bond that intertwines her very being with His. She finds herself enveloped in this profound affection, her thoughts irresistibly anchored to Him, unable and unwilling to let go of the powerful connection that uplifts and sustains her spirit.

In the Song of Solomon, the narrative beautifully oscillates between moments of profound intimacy and times of painful separation. This moment highlights a significant period of distance between the beloved and the lover, capturing the ache of longing. This theme resonates with Jesus’ words in Matthew 9:15, where He articulates: “The wedding guests cannot mourn while the Bridegroom is with them, can they? But the days are coming when the Bridegroom will be taken from them, and then they will fast.”

In this passage, Jesus parallels His presence and the joy of a wedding celebration. When He is with His disciples, they experience a deep sense of joy, connection, and fellowship. It is a time for celebration and closeness, akin to a wedding feast. However, He foreshadows that there will come a time when He will be separated from them, leading His followers to fast and mourn at His separation. This creates a poignant contrast, illustrating that the moments of joy are often intertwined with the experience of longing and desire, enriching the emotional landscape of their relationship.

“Be like a gazelle or a young stag on the mountain gorges.” In her heartfelt expression of longing, the Shulamite girl, whom He previously called a dove—a symbol of tenderness and love—now envisions Him as a gazelle or a young stag, representing vitality and agility amidst the rugged landscape. These exquisite creatures are renowned for their sure-footedness, effortlessly traversing steep, rocky terrain with incredible grace. Their powerful legs allow them to leap and bound with remarkable agility, navigating obstacles that would hinder the less capable.

In Habakkuk 3:19, the prophet joyfully affirms, “God, the Lord, is my strength; He makes my feet like the deer’s; He makes me tread on my high places.” This profound verse conveys that our relationship with Jesus equips us with divine empowerment. He graces us with the sure-footedness of a deer, enabling us to wander up the steep, towering mountains of life, discovering hidden valleys of peace and strength along the way.

Psalm 18:33 further echoes this sentiment: “He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights.” These metaphors illustrate the transformation that unfolds when we completely trust our Savior. He becomes our unwavering strength, our steadfast rock amidst life’s chaos.

As the Shulamite girl expresses in her lament, we no longer find ourselves isolated in despair. Instead, we embrace the reassuring truth that He walks beside us, even when the paths turn rocky and treacherous. As we navigate life’s trials, His comforting presence envelops us, wrapping us in His loving embrace. Our feet are transformed to reflect His, empowering us to leap joyfully and energetically like a gazelle or a young stag, displaying His joy as we ascend the majestic mountains of our journey and face every challenge with unwavering faith and grace.

The Hebrew word for mountain, “har,” conveys the physical elevation of land and symbolizes the spiritual heights we aspire to reach. In contrast, the King James Version introduces the term “bether,” meaning separation, which gives us an emotional landscape. This imagery evokes a powerful sentiment: “Lord, you are on that distant mountain; you’ve ascended to Your Kingdom and are dwelling in the sanctuary of Your Father’s house.” These mountains are metaphors for the emotional and spiritual chasms that sometimes separate us from God.

In my heart, I yearn for the Lord to traverse that distance and return to us, allowing us to draw near and experience the bliss of eternal communion in His presence. This longing resonates deeply with the beautiful promise articulated in 1 Thessalonians 4:17: “Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.”

The idea of separation and the heartfelt desire for God’s nearness are profoundly significant to me, as it is to the Shulamite girl. Throughout different seasons of my life, I have faced moments that felt like an overwhelming sense of disconnection, as if God were perched on that distant mountain, unreachable and far away. Yet, the comforting assurance in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 fills me with a profound hope and anticipation. It reassures me that one glorious day, all feelings of separation will be gone, and we will be united with the Lord for eternity, embraced in His boundless love and grace forevermore.

Stephen Barnett