Look! Here He Comes, Leaping Over The Mountains, Bounding Over The Hills!

“Listen! My lover is approaching! Look! Here he comes, leaping over the mountains, bounding over the hills! My lover is like a gazelle or a young stag. Look! There he stands behind our wall, gazing through the window, peering through the lattice. My lover said, “Arise, my darling; My beautiful one, come away with me! Look! The winter has passed, the winter rains are over and gone. Blossoms have appeared in the land, the time for pruning and singing has come; the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. The fig tree has ripened its figs, the vines have blossomed and give off their fragrance. Arise, come away my darling; my beautiful one, come away with me!” Song of Solomon 2:8-13 NET

Returning to verse seven, we are drawn into a vivid expression of sacred love: “I admonish you, O maidens of Jerusalem, by the gazelles and by the young does of the open fields: Do not awaken or arouse love until it pleases!” This refrain is repeated three times, emphasizing the desire to protect this intimate moment from disturbances. The speaker is immersed in the deep, focused fellowship with her lover, relishing every precious second of this connection that brings her profound joy and serenity.

This communion with the Lord is often their most treasured experience for Christians. It is a time filled with prayer, reflection, and deep meditation, where every thought is centered on Him. The longing to engage in this fellowship speaks to the believer’s heart: to immerse themselves in His word, absorb the wisdom found in Scripture, and let His teachings flow over them, bringing comfort and enlightenment.

Every repetition of the refrain reinforces her protective instinct over this cherished time, urging that nothing be allowed to interrupt the sacred intimacy she shares with Him. It is a moment devoted solely to the encounter of their hearts together, and her heartfelt plea is that no external distractions can dissuade this divine connection until it pleases Him to call her back to the outside world. In this space, everything is sacred, and the experience transcends the mundane, becoming a dance of spirit and love, utterly devoted to Him.

In the subsequent paragraph, the King highlights three distinct instances of separation, emphasizing that He has deliberately chosen to distance Himself from His Bride for various reasons. This is a crucial spiritual lesson for us: a person cannot spend their entire existence in solitary communion with Jesus. The Christian life is designed to be a communal experience rather than isolation. There are specific moments when the Lord Jesus calls us to engage in fellowship with other believers, reinforcing the importance of community.

Hebrews 10:24-25 resonates deeply with this theme, stating, “And let us take thought of how to spur one another on to love and good works, not abandoning our own meetings, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and even more so as you see the Day drawing near.” This Scripture encapsulates the essence of mutual support and interaction among Christians; we are inherently designed to uplift one another.

When someone falls into a self-absorbed mentality, believing that it is solely about “me” and resisting the presence of others, a significant rift forms in their spiritual life. This inward focus can manifest as a dismissive attitude toward sharing one’s faith, reflected in thoughts like, “I’m not interested in discussing Jesus with anyone. I have no desire to attend church, and I certainly don’t feel inclined or compelled to motivate my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.”

In response to this narrow perspective, He purposefully withdraws His presence, not to punish, but to foster an opportunity for growth, a deeper awareness that transcends one’s own confines. He aims to guide her from this insular mindset, encouraging her to reach beyond her personal experiences and share the profound love of the King she has encountered, thereby enriching her life and those around her.

In verse eight, she realizes He is gone; “I am not in the intimate presence with my beloved, but I hear the voice of my beloved.” One thing that leaps out to me regarding this short passage is that if you cannot spend time in intimate one-on-one communion with Jesus, just listen for His voice, and get excited when you hear it. The Hebrew word is “qol,” meaning noise or sound. In verse eight, He has not necessarily spoken yet, but she hears Him approaching. She hears His footfalls as He approaches the door, the voice, the sound of my beloved. Beloved is the Hebrew word “dod,” which conveys a boiling hot love, admiration, dedication, and affection.

The word “Listen” is used in this translation; the original Hebrew word is “Hinneh,” which also conveys the meanings of “behold” or “see for yourself.” This choice of words introduces an element of excitement and anticipation, as if inviting the reader to pay close attention to what is about to happen. The phrase continues, “Here he comes, leaping over the mountains, bounding over the hills!” This imagery paints a vivid picture of the Shulamite girl eagerly awaiting her beloved, who has been away for a time but is now returning. It symbolizes her longing and hope, evoking emotions similar to the joy we anticipate at the return of Jesus.

In her declaration, “I hear some sounds,” she signals the arrival of her beloved. This moment resonates with the Christian belief that when Jesus returns, it will not go unnoticed. There will be unmistakable sounds: the triumphant blast from the trumpet of God and the powerful voice of the Archangel heralding His return. The Shulamite girl recognizes these sounds as those of her beloved, exclaiming, “Here He comes, leaping over the mountains, bounding over the hills.”

In the context of the Old Testament, mountains and hills are often metaphors that represent the obstacles and challenges we face in life. Jesus spoke to His disciples about overcoming such difficulties, telling them, “It was because of your little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20). In this verse, the mountain symbolizes not just physical barriers, but also emotional and spiritual struggles.

The mountains can also be interpreted as representing the source of the law—a foundational aspect of God’s plan delivered to His people from Mount Sinai. When Jesus leaps over these mountains, it signifies that the law is no longer an obstacle to our relationship with Him. Instead, it highlights the transformative power of grace that has come into the world.

The Apostle Paul elaborates on this theme in his letter to the Galatians: “But when the appropriate time had come, God sent out His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we may be adopted as sons with full rights” (Galatians 4:3-4). Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are liberated from the law’s curse, allowing us to enter a new covenant. We are not just adopted as sons; we are welcomed into a close and personal relationship with God as companions and friends, enjoying His grace and freedom. This profound shift invites us to embrace our identity as beloved children of God, no longer bound by the weight of the law but free to live in the joy of His love.

Jesus triumphantly leaps upon the mountain, conveying His power and authority. His actions illustrate that no problem is too great for Him; no mountains are so high or valleys so deep that they can impede His love and presence in our lives. The imagery of Him leaping and bounding suggests a sense of joy and excitement in His return—He is delighted and enthusiastic, as if skipping over the hills in pure pleasure.

The Shulamite girl joyfully exclaims, “Here he comes! Oh, here He comes!” What a glad reunion day it will be! This statement captures her ecstatic anticipation, reflecting believers’ profound joy about Jesus’s promised return. This anticipation aligns beautifully with the Scripture in Revelation 22:20: “The one who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon!’ Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!” This reinforces the hopeful promise of His return, emphasizing the joyful reunion that awaits all who believe.

She continues, “My lover is like a gazelle or a young stag.” This vivid comparison evokes strength and grace, as the gazelle and young stag possess masculine qualities. She likens her lover to these elegant creatures due to their remarkable surefootedness in the mountainous terrain. Gazelles and stags deftly navigate the steep slopes and rocky paths, moving with agility and confidence, seemingly impervious to the dangers of slipping or falling. This symbolizes the unwavering nature of Jesus; just as these animals are assured in their footing, He will never waver or fall.

Furthermore, these incredible gazelles and stags are known for their remarkable speed. They can traverse the hills in seconds, embodying the essence of swift movement. This mirrors the promise of Jesus’ return, which is described as happening in the twinkling of an eye, a phrase that captures the idea of something occurring almost instantaneously.

Moreover, gazelles and stags are stunningly beautiful animals, characterized by their sleek, symmetrical forms and graceful movements. They capture the eye and inspire admiration. In comparison, Jesus transcends even this beauty; He is altogether lovely, radiating an unmatched splendor. He is our beautiful Savior, embodying grace, strength, and a love that knows no bounds.

“Look! There he stands behind our wall, gazing intently through the window and peering through the intricate lattice.” His presence radiates a deep desire. Standing behind the wall signifies his unwavering and constant presence in our lives, ever-watchful and protective. It serves as a reminder that we should never allow a barrier of separation to form between ourselves and our Savior. Don’t let an outer façade or mask, born from fear and insecurity, prevent you from approaching Jesus with your true and authentic self.

An old hymn, “Nothing Between My Soul and The Savior,” composed by Charles Albert Tindley in the early 1900s, beautifully captures this sentiment. The imagery of Him standing at the wall, gazing in through the window, reflects His yearning to catch a glimpse of His beloved. He seeks to admire her beauty, both inner and outer.

Later in the Song of Solomon, He will express His admiration for His beloved in poetic and breathtaking detail, highlighting her unique qualities. Spiritually, it is her beauty that He longs to see at the window, as it represents the purity and love planted in her heart.

Am I suggesting that Jesus longs to see you? I unequivocally am. His tender, watchful gaze is fixed upon you, overflowing with love and compassion. He vigilantly guards you against adversaries threatening your peace and well-being. His attention is not solely on your protection; it also embraces the love, joy, and delight that flourish within your heart, illuminating His profound compassion for you.

The lattice symbolizes a delicate framework of window panes, with intricately crafted lattice wood slats as a protective barrier and a beautiful design element. In this metaphor, God unveils Himself through the slats of this lattice, granting us only glimpses of His divine presence. Depending on our personal circumstances and spiritual growth, we often find it challenging to grasp the fullness of His being.

Consider Moses, who once implored God to reveal His glory. In response, God compassionately explained that the whole experience of His glory would be far too overwhelming for any mortal to endure and live. Instead of fully disclosing His exquisite radiance, God manifests His goodness. He carefully concealed Moses in the cleft of a rugged rock, offering protection as He passed by, allowing Moses to behold only a sliver of His glory—just a fleeting glimpse of His backside, a mere echo of the infinite glory awaiting beyond our limited mortal perception.

God’s presence can evoke awe and reverence, leaving us profoundly aware of our vulnerability. In His graciousness, He reveals only what we can safely encounter, gently safeguarding us from the totality of His glory. Though He remains just beyond the lattice, close enough to feel His warmth and presence, a promise lies ahead.

One day, we will experience a remarkable transformation, receiving a new, spiritual body liberated from the constraints of this mortal earthly existence. In that moment of metamorphosis, we will be privileged to behold Him face to face, unclouded and in all His radiant beauty and transcendent splendor. Until that wondrous day arrives, we embrace the reality that He gazes through the lattice, inviting us into a deeper relationship, while reminding us that our current view is only a hint of the extraordinary fullness that awaits.

The Bride is brimming with excitement as she glimpses Him through the intricate latticework, her heart fluttering with anticipation at the sight of Him. In those moments when we perceive Jesus watching over us, we deeply yearn for and cherish the precious instances of His presence. While it’s impossible to remain in the divine presence every moment of the day, we must desire to capture every opportunity to seek Him out.

Practically speaking, pursuing His presence can take many forms. It often involves engaging in earnest and heartfelt prayer, pouring out our hopes, struggles, and gratitude to Him. In addition, fostering genuine connections with our brothers and sisters in Christ can serve as vital avenues to encounter His love and grace. These pathways to His presence may manifest differently in each person’s journey; experiencing His presence is unique, shaped by our personal circumstances and spiritual growth.

Furthermore, we may sense a strong calling to serve in various fields, much like the devoted young Shulamite girl who diligently tended to her family’s vineyards. She nurtured her responsibilities with love and care while remaining open and attentive to the divine moments that beckoned her attention—reminding us that faith and service often intertwine beautifully in our lives.

“My lover spoke to me,” it is still that Hebrew word “dod,” the one she loves with boiling hot love. The word spoke is “anah,” which means ‘answered,’ Do you know what my beloved spoke and said unto me? She has been saying ‘even so, come my darling.’ Reflecting to Revelation 22:17 “And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say: “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wants it take the water of life free of charge.” She reflects, “I’ve missed that intimacy we had in your chambers and at your banqueting house, but you have departed and withdrawn yourself.” His response is much like when Jesus said to His disciples, “And if I go and make ready a place for you, I will come again and take you to be with me, so that where I am you may be too”. John 14:3

The Bridegroom’s tender response to her resonates with warmth: “Arise, my darling; my beautiful one, come away with me!” In this phrase, the Hebrew word for “arise” is “qum,” which conveys the idea of standing up and moving forth. This word is expressed in the imperative mood, signifying a heartfelt command or loving invitation: “Rise up, my love.”

This call carries significance, evoking the anticipation of an upcoming reunion. It echoes the promise found in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, which assures believers of Jesus’ imminent return, when they will be swept up to meet Him in the air, surrounded by glory and joy.

The phrase “Rise up, My darling, My beautiful one,” is rooted in the Hebrew term “raya,” encompassing a broad spectrum of meaning. While it denotes love in its most basic form, it also embodies the deeper essences of companionship and friendship. This rich understanding reflects the profound connection between Jesus and His followers, highlighting an intimate bond that surpasses mere affection alone.

Through this invitation, the Bridegroom expresses His deep love. He reminds us of the glorious hope of eternal togetherness—a promise of companionship that stirs the heart and soul, beckoning His beloved to rise and embrace the journey ahead.

In John 15:15, we encounter a profound revelation as Jesus acknowledges the deepening bond between Himself and His disciples. He proclaims, “I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not grasp the full intentions of his master. Instead, I have called you friends because I have shared with you everything I have learned from my Father.” This powerful distinction emphasizes a transformation in their relationship, moving from mere obedience into the warmth and trust of friendship.

Throughout biblical history, figures such as Abraham are celebrated as friends of God, underscoring the remarkable truth that even those who are flawed and imperfect can hold a cherished place in the Lord’s heart. This invitation to intimacy highlights that we, as His beloved creations, are not simply subjects of His kingdom but treasured individuals of immeasurable worth in His eyes.

In this sacred connection, we find comfort in knowing we are the desire of His heart, profoundly loved and sought after. The gentle invitation, “Come away with me,” beckons us to step away from the clamor of our daily lives and dive into this extraordinary fellowship, encouraging us to embrace the beauty of a relationship that is rooted in love, understanding, and deep communion with the Almighty.

There are two things at play here in this interaction: the first is that He is inviting her to come away, acknowledging that He has been temporally absent from her close, intimate fellowship with Him, but He needs her to see that she cannot be selfish regarding His love. He needs her to see the bigger picture that there are so many others who need to know of the King’s love for His people and for them also to come away with Him into the place where she has gone, into deeper friendship and fellowship with the Bridegroom and the things of God. The other view is “rise up, I’ve prepared for you a place, let’s go there so you can meet me where I am, rise up and come away.”  

A captivating series of Springtime terms begins at verse eleven, vividly illustrating the theme of rebirth and renewal. Springtime, with its lush greenery and vibrant blossoms, symbolizes the essence of new life, starkly contrasting with the death and stillness associated with winter. The text joyfully declares, “Look! The winter has passed, the winter rains are over and gone.” This proclamation serves not only as a metaphorical greeting to the warmth and vibrancy of spring but also signifies a profound spiritual awakening: the dreary, cold days and prolonged, shivering nights of winter have receded, making way for a season of rejuvenation, growth, and hope.

For those who place their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, it is almost inevitable that they will encounter ‘winter times’ of the soul throughout their spiritual journeys. These seasons of difficulty, characterized by emotional chill and spiritual desolation, can lead to feelings of isolation and despair. Many individuals grapple with this deep sense of separation from God—a truly universal experience that, while disheartening, can also be transformative. St. John of the Cross, a 16th-century Spanish Carmelite priest, articulated this phenomenon, coining the term “dark night of the soul.” This phrase encapsulates a spiritual ordeal filled with intense suffering, profound darkness, and a gnawing doubt, where one feels abandoned by God. St. John posited that this arduous phase is not merely a trial to endure but a vital progression in the soul’s journey toward a deeper union with Christ.

Even King David, revered as a man after God’s own heart, confronted feelings of abandonment during his trials, which he poignantly expressed in Psalm 13:1-3. He cries out in anguish, “How long, Lord, will you continue to ignore me? How long will you pay no attention to me? How long must I worry and suffer in broad daylight? How long will my enemy gloat over me? Look at me! Answer me, O Lord my God! Revive me, or else I will die.” David’s heartfelt plea powerfully illustrates the depths of despair that can accompany spiritual struggles.

Yet, just as spring inevitably follows winter—bringing forth a wide array of flowers, the warmth of sunlight, and the jubilant sounds of life—your spiritual renewal will similarly blossom from these hardships. This promise of renewal serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging us to believe that transformation and new beginnings always lie just ahead, waiting to emerge from the shadows of our darkest moments.

“Look! The winter is past,” as if He is saying, “I know you’ve missed me during this time of separation. I have been away preparing a place specifically for you, and now I have returned, leaping over the mountains and bounding over the hills, signifying a new season.” The winter symbolizes a period of barrenness and hardship, but now it is over.

“The winter rains are over and gone.” This phrase beautifully captures the transition from winter’s harshness to spring’s arrival. I have been informed that in Israel, winter is typically characterized as the rainy season, where cold rains dominate the landscape. However, as those cold rains recede, we find that warm showers can be refreshing and uplifting, much like unexpected blessings that come into our lives.

In a spiritual context, these warm showers can symbolize moments of blessing or revival. The essence of this message is clear: the dreary, cold rains of winter are a thing of the past; spring is now the vibrant season.

The renowned English poet Alfred Tennyson once wrote, “In the spring, a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.” This line encapsulates the hopeful and invigorating spirit of spring. It was during this season of renewal, specifically around Passover, that significant events took place in Christian history: Jesus was sacrificially crucified, buried, resurrected, and later ascended to heaven. Each of these pivotal moments underscores the profound meaning of spring as a time of new beginnings and spiritual revival.

“Blossoms have appeared in the land.” These blossoms are not merely cultivated flowers but a dazzling array of wildflowers that flourish in their untamed splendor. Around where the Bridegroom is situated, tender buds have unfurled, with resplendent roses, exquisite lilies, and luscious peonies encircling Him, each flower radiating beauty, fragrance, and grace. Have you ever taken a moment to appreciate the generosity and vibrancy of God’s wildflowers? They grace the rugged mountains, the lush valleys, and the expansive open plains—each a testament to God’s magnificent artistry and boundless creativity. This vibrant scene serves as a powerful symbol of the overwhelming love of God, inviting all who yearn to love; it embodies the essence of the flowers that bloom on the earth, each representing a fragment of divine beauty.

“The time for pruning and singing has come; the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.” This evocative phrase heralds the arrival of melodious birdsong, marking a jubilant season—the harsh grip of winter has finally loosened, and a warm, radiant day engulfs us as the Lord moves mightily in our lives. The turtledove, a cherished member of the dove family, holds a special place in this transition. This migratory bird departs from Israel during the bitter, rain-soaked winter months, symbolizing times of darkness and despair. Yet, it faithfully returns in late April or early May with the arrival of spring, embodying hope and renewal, its gentle cooing a sweet reminder of new beginnings.

Indeed, can a child of God encounter moments of darkness? Reflect on the comforting words of King David: “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me.” (Psalm 23:4). These powerful words remind us that, despite the shadows that may surround us, we are never truly alone. A child of God may traverse the valleys of despair, but they are accompanied by the steadfast presence of God. Furthermore, the prophet Isaiah offers another profound encouragement to those facing trials, urging them to remain resolute in their faith and trust in God: “Who among you fears the Lord? Who obeys his servant? Whoever walks in deep darkness, without light, should trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God.” (Isaiah 50:10). This passage reassures us that even in our bleakest moments, trust in God’s promises provides the strength and hope we need to persevere.

“The fig tree has ripened its figs,” some versions say it has put forth its green figs. The root word for ripened or put forth is “khanat,” which means to make spicy. It is as if the Bridegroom is inviting her to inspect the fruit trees, like the fig tree putting forth the green figs. What does it mean? The figs are not ripe yet; they are still hard. An encouragement to any believer, the Lord Jesus loves your fruit if it is green or ripe, He loves your fruit if it is still in the blossoming stage, or if it is mellowed out and luscious to the taste. He makes allotment for our fruit bearing from the time it begins until it reaches complete maturity. In other words, He allows for the weaknesses of the believer, especially the new believer, and He provides for the believer’s desires. Naaman was a new believer who was healed from leprosy. Out of gratitude to the Lord and Elisha, he said, “… please give your servant a load of dirt, enough for a pair of mules to carry, for your servant will never agaifer a burnt offering or sacrifice to a god other than the Lord.” 1 Kings 5:17  He believed it was holy ground, hence holy dirt where He met the Lord. He wanted to take part of Israel back with him to Syria, for it was his connection to the Lord, and Elisha did not rebuke him; God allows for the green fruit.

“The vines have blossomed and give off their fragrance.” This vivid imagery illustrates the flourishing state of the vines, adorned with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. At the same time, their pleasant aroma wafts through the air, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. It is vital to reflect on the term ‘fragrance’ or ‘smell,’ translated in Hebrew as “reakh,” which encompasses a rich meaning including odor, scent, and aroma. Its root word, “ruach,” beautifully connects to the concepts of breath and the Spirit of God, implying a profound invitation.

It’s as if beloved is tenderly calling out, “Oh my darling, come with me. The Spirit of God will walk beside us, enveloping us in a sweet presence—together we will delight in the sweet fragrance of His love. You will not be within the opulence of the palace or the ornate chambers, nor will you be seated at the extravagant banqueting hall. Instead, allow yourself to rise, my love, my darling, my beautiful one, my friend, and join me on this exhilarating journey. Let’s explore the lush landscapes where fig trees are laden with fruit and grapevines stretch toward the sky, for I am the true vine, and you are the branches intricately connected to me.”

Similarly, we are invited to accompany Jesus into the bountiful fields of service and ministry, where the fields are white unto harvest, where we are infused with the fragrant presence of the Holy Spirit. This divine infusion empowers us to share the profound truth of Christ through the overflowing love He has cultivated within us. We are called to proclaim His miraculous works in our lives, revealing the transformative journey that continually unfolds within us. As we engage with those around us, the aroma of His presence will permeate our actions and words, drawing others nearer to His boundless love and profound truth of who we are to Him.

Stephen Barnett