This section of Song of Solomon unfolds from our earlier
exploration, delving deeper into the Shulamite woman’s poignant journey. Cloaked in the shroud of early morning darkness, she traverses Jerusalem's quiet, shadowy streets, desperately longing for her Beloved. Her heart is heavy with emotion, and the chill of the night adds to her sense
of vulnerability.
As she wanders, she unexpectedly encounters the night
watchmen, who roam the streets with an air of authority and suspicion. Misjudging her intentions and perceiving her as a harlot due to her disheveled
appearance and the late hour, they approach her aggressively. In
a harrowing turn of events, they unleash their brutality, subjecting her to a
vicious beating, fully taking advantage of her helpless state.
In contemporary terms, her harrowing experience can be
understood as a grievous act of sexual assault. The watchmen violently strip
away her veil—a powerful symbol of her femininity, modesty, and personal
dignity—effectively robbing her of her protective
barrier. In that moment, she is not only exposed physically but also rendered
vulnerable psychologically, as her sense of safety and self-worth are brutally
shattered. The darkness of the night mirrors the oppressive weight of her
experience, illustrating the raw pain and fear that envelop her as she
navigates this terrifying ordeal.
Several young maidens, known as the maidens of Jerusalem,
hear the distant commotion and swiftly rush to the aid of the Shulamite woman,
who is caught in the grip of the watchmen’s harsh treatment. Concern etches
their faces as they surround her, offering words of comfort and consolation
amidst her distress. With tender concern, they question the circumstances,
asking, ‘What sort of man would permit his bride to endure such cruelty?’
In a moment heavy with emotion, the bride looks at them, her
voice barely a whisper, and asks, “If you find my beloved, what will you tell
him?” This critical question reveals her deep desire for discretion; she longs
for them to shield her beloved from the painful details of her ordeal. A sense
of guilt weighs heavily on her heart, stemming from her failure to respond when
her beloved initially knocked at her door, which ultimately drove her to seek
him out in desperation.
With a fervent plea, she urges the maidens that if they
happen to encounter him, they should convey her profound yearning by saying, “Tell him, I am lovesick!” This heartfelt declaration encapsulates the intensity
of her emotions and the depth of her longing for her Beloved. Although carrying
this emotional burden is a struggle, she willingly reveals her vulnerability,
showcasing the depth of her love and the ache in her heart for the one else she
cherishes so dearly.
We resume the narrative with the bride, whose heart
overflows with profound love and deep affection for her Beloved, Solomon. In an
exquisite poem brimming with lyrical beauty, she pours out her feelings,
celebrating His unique virtues and the depth of their soul connection. Her
heartfelt declaration arises from a painful sense of neglect, as she has
tragically lost the awareness of His comforting presence in her life.
Recall the moment she was enveloped in a tranquil
slumber, blissfully unaware as her Beloved approached her home, gently knocking
on the door with tender anticipation. In her dreamy state, she failed to
respond, missing the precious opportunity to welcome Him inside. Driven by an
overwhelming longing gnawing at her heart, she later ventured out into the
chilly night, desperately searching for Him through the shadowy, winding
streets of the city. Unfortunately, her quest yielded painful consequences; the
city’s watchmen, vigilant and unmoved by her plight, apprehended her harshly. They beat her mercilessly, leaving her with bruises that mirrored
the turmoil and heartache she felt within.
Yet, amid her despair, these compassionate
believers came to her rescue. Although they were curious about her Solomon and
intrigued by the tales surrounding Him, their understanding remained
superficial and fragmented. These maidens of Jerusalem, radiating a mixture of
concern and curiosity, approached her with earnest questions. “What makes
your beloved better than others?” they asked, their voices whispering
through the stillness of the night. In essence, they sought to uncover the
extraordinary qualities that distinguished Him from anyone else, prompting her
to articulate the profound reasons behind her unwavering devotion and the
irresistible allure of her beloved, this king, this shepherd, this person who
is a picture of the Lord Jesus.
She begins by offering profound and heartfelt praise for
Him, meticulously describing His exquisite beauty from His head to His feet. “My beloved is dazzling and ruddy.” The term “dazzling” evokes the
image of radiant whiteness, symbolizing purity—spotless, unblemished, and
entirely free of any stain. In contrast, the description of Him as “ruddy”
draws from the Hebrew word that means “reddish,” spelled “adom.” This
root word is significant, as it connects to the name “Adam,” which illustrates
humanity’s creation from the earth’s red clay and fertile soil.
This intriguing duality of colors—brilliant white and warm
red—carries profound symbolic meaning. His skin is so flawlessly white and
pristine that it mirrors the delicate texture of a newborn’s skin, representing spiritual vitality and an innocence untouched by sin. At the same
time, the reddish hue evokes the natural warmth of blood coursing beneath the
surface, signifying the earthly and human aspect of our existence. This
powerful imagery resonates with 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 easy to see
as scarlet, you can become white like wool.”
Such a profound transformation is made possible only through
the sacrificial act of Jesus on the cross and the transformative power of His
precious Blood. The radiant white signifies His life’s remarkable purity and integrity, which He lived in perfect obedience, embodying the essence of
holiness. Conversely, the vivid red symbolizes the life-giving Blood He freely
shed for our redemption, a divine offering that reconciles us to our heavenly
Father. His “reddish” Blood cleanses our impure, stained heart, washing away
all transgressions, so that now, in God’s eyes, we stand justified and as pure
as freshly fallen snow. This rich imagery is a compelling introduction
to her passionate and poetic praise of her Beloved.
“He stands out in comparison to all other men.” Some
translations convey this idea even more vividly, stating, “He is
distinguished among ten thousand.” The apostle Paul extends this powerful
thought when he writes, “He is the head of the body, the church, and the
beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he may become first in all
things” (Colossians 1:18). Just as the Queen of Sheba was in awe of Solomon,
we too can find ourselves in awe of Jesus. He is truly unique, an unparalleled
figure in history and beyond; no one else is like Him. The Father has
bestowed upon Him a name elevated above every name, setting Him apart among ten
thousand—our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.
The Queen of Sheba, an accomplished and wealthy monarch from
the ancient Kingdom of Sheba, located in southwestern Arabia, undertook a
remarkable journey to visit Solomon in Jerusalem after hearing rumors of his
astonishing attributes. Intrigued by tales of his unparalleled wisdom, vast
treasures, and deep faith in His God, she traveled a considerable distance to
meet him. Upon her arrival, she carefully observed his court, the magnificence
of his palace, and the depth of his knowledge. After her visit, she proclaimed,
“I did not believe these things until I came and saw them with my own eyes. Indeed, I didn’t hear even half the story! Your wisdom and wealth surpass what
was reported to me.” (1 Kings 10:7) Her profound realization underscores a
significant truth about Jesus. There is infinitely more to Him than we can
fully grasp. The depths of His character and the richness of His works reveal
that the half has yet to be unveiled.
Paul further deepens this insight with the following words: “But
just as it is written, ‘Things that no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor mind
imagined, are the things God has prepared for those who love Him’” (1
Corinthians 2:9). This passage invites us to reflect on the unimaginable
blessings and profound riches that await those who earnestly seek Him. It
suggests that our current understanding is a mere shadow of His greatness
and the wondrous things He has in store for those who cherish Him.
“His head is like the purest gold,” in Hebrew, saying “His head is gold of gold,” doubling the noun, making anything superlative, like Holy of Holies, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, all are superlative. It is the same thing here, gold of gold is His head. In typology
gold is a symbol of deity, physically speaking Jesus is dazzling white as we
have already discovered and reddish, speaking spiritually, He is the God of
gods, God is represented by gold in His creation. White and ruddy is the
humanity of Jesus; the head of gold is the deity of Jesus. She is praising Him for the fact that He is God, He became the Son of God, and the Son of man. His
head is not just a trinket of gold, but His entire head “…the purest gold.”
“His hair is curly—black like a raven.” This vivid
imagery carries profound significance; His hair serves as a powerful symbol of
eternal youthfulness. The notable absence of gray hair accentuates this theme. While the natural progression of life often leads to thinning tresses and hair
that turns gray with age, Jesus defies this norm. As expressed in Hebrews 13:8,
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” This
poignant verse highlights that time has no bearing on Jesus; He remains perpetually
youthful, with hair that retains its striking dark hue, untouched by the sands
of time.
The speaker marvels at the enduring presence of Jesus
throughout biblical history. Jesus strolled with Adam and Eve in the
tranquil coolness of the afternoon, sharing the divine beauty of creation in
the lush Garden of Eden. Furthermore, Jesus stood steadfastly by the
three Hebrew youths—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—in the harrowing moment
they faced the fiery furnace, shielding them from the searing flames and
ensuring their miraculous survival.
As we immerse ourselves in the poetic verses of the Song of
Solomon, we are reminded that Jesus is intimately present with us, guiding our
understanding. I can sense His presence, illuminating our exploration with
divine insight and inspiration as we unravel the profound layers of meaning
woven into these exquisite poems together. I believe this is why God calls
Himself the “I AM.” His title signifies His eternal nature. As the “I AM that I AM, He could say “I AM”
six thousand years ago in Eden, He could say “I AM” six thousand years later
in our hearts, and six billion years from now He will still be “I AM that I
AM.”
I recognize that she is discussing some physical traits of
her beloved Solomon. Still, I choose to interpret these descriptions in the
context of the spiritual characteristics of our Savior, Jesus Christ. One
evocative passage proclaims, “His eyes are like doves by streams of water,
washed in milk, mounted like jewels.” Let’s delve deeper into this emphasis
on His eyes.
You may have encountered the saying, “The eyes are the
window to the soul.” This timeless adage suggests that through a person’s gaze,
we can glean profound insights into their innermost thoughts and emotions. In
the case of Jesus, His eyes are a radiant symbol of peace, purity, and
unfathomable love. They reflect His divine essence—gentle, compassionate, and
steadfastly faithful.
The notion that eyes reveal a person’s true nature has its
roots in ancient Roman philosophy. The esteemed thinker Marcus Tullius Cicero
once declared, “The face is a picture of the mind, as the eyes are its
interpreter.” This means that by studying someone’s eyes, we can uncover the
depths of their thoughts and feelings. A similar message resonates through
Matthew 6:22-23: “The eye is the lamp of the body. If then your eye is
healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is diseased,
your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness,
how great is the darkness!”
When we meet someone’s gaze, we often gain insight into
their authentic selves. Have you ever sat with someone who avoids eye contact? Their downcast gaze or fleeting glances can signal dishonesty or guilt,
creating an invisible barrier to connection. Conversely, direct eye contact
fosters a bond of sincerity and trust, allowing us to truly see one another. I
am immensely grateful that we can look into the compassionate eyes of our
Savior, knowing He never looks away from us, never abandons us, and has never
acted in ways that would harm or betray us. This truth aligns beautifully with
the wisdom found in Proverbs 18:24: “There are companions who harm one another,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” In Jesus, we find that
ultimate friendship.
In Hebrew, the word for ‘eyes’ is ‘ayin,’ signifying a
fountain or well of light—a source of clarity and illumination in a world often
shrouded in darkness. When she gazes into His eyes, she perceives the eyes of
doves—gentle, loving, and unwaveringly faithful. Doves, known for their
monogamous nature and lifelong partnerships, beautifully symbolize Jesus’s unshakeable commitment to His followers. He is our Savior,
eternally devoted to us, and we express our deep gratitude for His presence beside
the rivers of living water, where He offers peace, nourishment, and boundless
love.
This imagery evokes a sense of fertility, growth, and divine
blessing, vividly illustrated in Psalm 1:3: “He is like a tree planted by
flowing streams; it yields its fruit at the proper time, and its leaves never
wither. He succeeds in everything he attempts.”
The phrase “washed in milk” suggests that the whites of His
eyes are pristine and radiant, unmarred by redness or distraction. His gaze is
pure and vigilant, focused solely on what the Father reveals, ensuring He fulfills His lofty divine purpose. Jesus underscored this commitment
when He declared, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is
fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). This teaching highlights the
necessity of unwavering focus and dedication to our spiritual calling.
The expression “mounted like jewels” draws from the Hebrew
word “yashav,” which means to ‘abide’ and ‘remain.’ His eyes are steadfastly
fixed on us, a comforting assurance that He will never look away. His gaze
encompasses all creation, discerning both good and evil, but dear Christian,
His eyes are especially attuned to you because you are part of His beloved
bride. His love for you is profound, intimate, and deeply personal. She is
utterly captivated by the beauty and depth of His eyes, which reflect the
boundless love He holds for each of us, inviting us into a
transformative relationship that lights our path.
“His cheeks are like garden beds full of balsam trees
yielding perfume.” His cheeks resemble exquisite, sweet flowers; the term
for ‘cheeks’ may also be interpreted as ‘jaws,’ enhancing their appeal. She
sees His cheeks as stunningly beautiful, radiating innocence and warmth. Balsam
trees are renowned for producing a fragrant resin, a soothing balm that evokes feelings
of serenity and healing. Balsam shrubs are herbaceous plants cultivated for
their striking blossoms, often adorned in vibrant shades of pink or purple,
flourishing high on graceful, slender stems.
Assuming, as was typical for men of that era, that He has a
beard, she whispers, “I love the very odor of your skin.” Indeed, do we not
find our Savior’s fragrance utterly captivating? He embodies sweetness,
proclaiming, “I am a meadow flower from Sharon, a lily of the valleys”
(Song of Solomon 2:1). His scent is reminiscent of blooming flowers, ranging
from the bright, cheerful daffodils to the delicate early crocuses and the
elegant lilies of the field—each fragrance contributes to an irresistible
allure.
Yet, at this moment, she perceives Him only through the
mesmerizing beauty of His sparkling eyes and cherubic cheeks. She is blissfully
unaware that one day, His beard will be violently seized by hostile hands,
cruelly torn from His cheeks, leading to excruciating pain and suffering. “I
gave my back to those who strike, and my cheeks to those who pull out the
beard; I did not hide my face from disgrace and spitting” (Isaiah 50:6). In
her innocence, she fails to grasp the profound sacrifice He is destined to make
on Calvary’s hill.
This lovely Jesus descends to earth, humbling Himself, and
willingly submits to obedience even unto death—death on a Roman cross, one of
the most harrowing and dehumanizing forms of execution. Why does He endure such
agony? It is all for the sake of His beloved bride. God gave His Son to die for
all of humanity, for Christ’s sake, but equally for the sake of His cherished
bride, the Church.
Even with His fragrant cheeks, soon to bear the marks of
brutal scorn, and His beard forcibly ripped away, He suffers for you and me,
bearing the weight of our transgressions. “He sprouted up like a tender shoot
before God, like a root out of parched soil; He had no stately form or majesty
that might draw our attention, no beauty or special appearance that we should
desire Him” (Isaiah 53:2). Yet, oh, the sweetness and fragrance of His cheeks! We are irresistibly drawn to Him by His captivating aroma and the compassionate
focus of His eyes upon us, inviting us into a profound and transformative
relationship with Him filled with love and grace.
“His lips are like lilies dripping with drops of myrrh.”
This vivid imagery, articulated by King Solomon, serves as a prophetic
portrayal of Jesus Christ. In the book of Hebrews, the writer quotes King David
as he prophetically predicted the coming Messiah, it is beautifully written, “So
when he came into the world, he said, ‘Sacrifice and offering you did not
desire, but a body you prepared for me’” (Hebrews 10:5). This profound
declaration underscores the distinctive nature of Jesus’ sacrificial role, setting
Him apart from the sacrifices of figures such as Abraham and Isaac. Jesus would
not merely offer a portion of Himself; He would surrender His entire essence,
becoming the total and complete sacrifice for all of humanity.
The Psalms of David provide an even deeper understanding of
God’s intentions regarding sacrifice: “In sacrifice and offering you have
not delighted, but you have given me an open ear. Burnt offering and sin
offering you have not required” (Psalms 40:6). The imagery of “an open ear”
evokes the picture of a devoted servant, one who is not only obedient but also
eager to fulfill the wishes of his master, going above and beyond what is
expected. This mirrors Jesus’s unwavering commitment to serving His heavenly Father
throughout His earthly ministry and into eternity. His body, often described in
fragrant terms, carries the essence of His divine mission, with His lips
symbolically dripping the rich, aromatic myrrh.
In stark contrast, the bride’s physical traits are depicted
with a sweetness that captivates and attracts; her lips drip honey, flowing
like the nectar of a honeycomb—an irresistible delight that speaks to love and
tenderness. This sweetness is a sharp juxtaposition to Jesus’ lips, which are
adorned with myrrh, a resin traditionally associated with death and burial. Myrrh, sourced from the myrrh tree, evokes the somber reality of sacrifice and
loss.
Consider the connection between this resin and Jesus’
crucifixion on a rugged tree at Calvary, a site eternally etched in the redemption
narrative. When a myrrh tree is cut on
its side, the resin oozes out and is collected. When Jesus’ side was pierced,
the Blood and water that flowed forth became fragrant symbols of love and grace
poured out for humanity. The tie deepens as we reflect on how Jesus’ family and
disciples used myrrh to prepare His lifeless body for burial, solemnly marking
the three days and nights He would lie in the tomb.
Moreover, Jesus’ teachings foreshadowed His impending trials
and ultimate sacrifice. He earnestly instructed His followers: “If anyone
wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and
follow me” (Matthew 16:24). Additionally, He candidly revealed, “…The
Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him,
and on the third day, he will be raised…” (Matthew 17:22-23). These
declarations reinforce that Jesus’ lips, steeped in the metaphor of myrrh,
signify not only His suffering on the cross but also the profound fulfillment
of His redemptive mission.
By enduring the bitterness of the cross, Jesus uniquely
opened the door for humanity to experience the abundant sweetness of life. Through His sacrificial love, He transformed sorrow into joy, allowing us to
fully embrace the richness and sweetness that life offers through Him. The
striking contrast between His myrrh-laden lips and the honeyed sweetness of
love given to His bride illustrates the depth and beauty of His sacrifice,
inviting all to partake in the sweetness of salvation.
“His arms are like rods of gold set with chrysolite.” In
Hebrew, the word for ‘arms’ is ‘yad’ or ‘tenon,’ which can also signify
‘hands.’ This dual interpretation is significant, as it highlights both the
physical strength of His arms and the nurturing, creative capabilities linked
to His hands. This underscores the multifaceted roles of hands in fostering
human connections and fulfilling divine purposes.
Chrysolite, also known as beryl, peridot, or olivine,
derives its name from the Latin “chrysolithus,” deeply rooted in Greek origins. The etymology combines ‘chryso,’ meaning gold, and ‘lythe,’ meaning stone,
vividly reflecting its stunning golden-green luster that catches the eye. This
gemstone exhibits a delicate color reminiscent of fresh springtime leaves,
symbolizing renewal, growth, and life. Many ancient cultures, including the
Egyptians and Greeks, revered chrysolite for its supposed healing properties,
believing it could alleviate emotional distress and cure physical ailments,
reinforcing its connection to life, vitality, and overall well-being.
The imagery surrounding hands paints a powerful portrait,
depicting them as robust rods or cylinders of gold—symbols of divinity—where
gold represents purity, divine light, and eternal value. While this imagery
does not suggest that His hands were pierced, it is crucial to note that His
hands were indeed pierced, and His Blood flowed from His hands and feet onto
the Ground below. In Hebrew, the term ‘Adam’—meaning “man” or “human”—is
intimately connected to ‘Dam’, which translates to “blood.” This linguistic
link emphasizes a profound biblical concept: human life is inextricably tied to
Blood, both physically and spiritually. The equation ‘Dam’ = Blood illustrates
this bond: ‘Adam’ (the first man) is formed from ‘Adamah’, meaning Ground, as
Adam was created from the earth. Jesus’ Blood, which flowed onto the Ground,
symbolizes the removal of the curse that binds humanity.
At the core of this reflection lies a powerful verse that
many may overlook: “For the life of every living thing is in the blood. So I
myself have assigned it to you on the altar to make atonement for your lives,
for the blood makes atonement by means of the life.” (Leviticus 17:11). This scripture emphasizes that the true power lies not in the death itself, but
in the life—an abundant, sustaining life that flows through Blood,
specifically, the sacrificial Blood of Jesus. “He was wounded because of our
rebellious deeds, crushed because of our sins; he endured punishment that made
us well; because of his wounds we have been healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)
The Hebrew word ‘tenons’ elevates the imagery of hands that
steadfastly hold onto us, representing an unbreakable bond of love and support. These hands, which bled, also sustain and uphold the very fabric of the
universe, suggesting that they are involved in the continuous acts of creation
and ongoing maintenance. This truth is profoundly echoed in Colossians 1:17,
which proclaims, “He himself is before all things, and in him, all things
hold together.” This reinforces the understanding that His hands not only
grasp all of creation but also maintain order and harmony within the cosmos,
reflecting a divine orchestration of life and existence.
“His abdomen is like polished ivory inlaid with sapphires.”
This vivid imagery captures a physique that is free of excess fat and epitomizes strength and vitality, resembling a flawless piece of ivory. His form radiates health and vigor, a testament to a lifestyle committed to
physical training and wellness. One might say he has meticulously sculpted his
abdominal muscles through rigorous workouts, resulting in a body that
highlights remarkable definition and aesthetic symmetry.
When compared to legendary bodybuilders like Arnold
Schwarzenegger or Big Ramy, he stands as a figure who has mastered the art of
physical perfection, projecting an ideal of discipline and strength. However,
it’s essential to consider that the term “sapphire” understood by ancient
cultures did not correspond to the modern gemstone. Instead, they likely
referenced lapis lazuli, a captivating stone characterized by its deep,
celestial blue adorned with glimmering specks of pyrite that shimmer like flecks
of gold against its rich tapestry. This stone was highly treasured by the
Babylonians and Egyptians, valued for its beauty and spiritual significance,
and was most commonly sourced from the quarries of Upper Egypt.
In the Old Testament, the allure of lapis lazuli—often
associated with sapphires—was so profound that it found a place among the
precious stones adorning the high priest’s breastplate, symbolizing divine
protection and the weight of spiritual responsibility. Additionally, the
prophetic descriptions of the New Jerusalem depict its foundations as being
constructed from sapphire, evoking imagery of beauty and brilliance. At the same time, its
majestic gates are also envisioned as made of this exquisite material,
symbolizing both safety and divine grace.
The image of Solomon, though a type and shadow of Jesus, is resplendent
with inlaid sapphires and powerfully represents a royal priesthood characterized
by strength and an unwavering capacity to offer salvation. As it beautifully
states, “But he holds his priesthood permanently since he lives forever. So he
can save completely those who come to God through him because he always lives
to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:24-25) This powerful verse captures the
essence of eternal intercession and the profound, unyielding support available
to those who seek a connection to the divine, offering hope and solace in times
of need.
“His legs are like pillars of marble set on bases of pure
gold.” This striking imagery paints a picture of strength and elegance, drawing
parallels to the majestic tabernacle of Israel and the glorious temple erected
by Solomon. These sacred structures were not merely architectural feats; they
were the epicenters of Israelite worship, serving as the divine dwelling place
where God’s presence intimately resided among His people. The choice of
materials—vivid colors, shimmering gold, and the robust marble—evokes a sense
of divine beauty and holiness that encapsulates the worship experience.
The verse“Now the Word became flesh and took up
residence among us” refers to the profound moment when Jesus Christ entered
the world. The Gospel of John articulates this truth, stating, “We saw his
glory—the glory of the one and only, full of grace and truth, who came from the
Father” (John 1:14). This encapsulates the essence of Christ: fully divine yet
fully human, embodying grace and truth as He revealed God’s character.
The metaphor “marble set in bases of gold” bears deep
significance. Marble, known for its strength and durability, symbolizes a
steadfast foundation of faith that supports the temple. At the same time, gold, with its
soft and malleable nature, represents God’s inherent ability to shape and mold
our lives through His grace. This compelling contrast prompts a vital
reflection: why would the pillars that uphold such a sacred space rest upon
bases of such precious yet malleable material?
This design speaks volumes about God’s divine nature and His
profound capacity for forgiveness. He demands righteousness, which reflects His
own flawless character—providing a steadfast anchor in an ever-changing world. Yet, humanity cannot achieve righteousness on its own, illuminating the vital
need for God’s mercy and grace. This explains the purpose of Jesus Christ’s
coming; He became our righteousness, offering Himself the ultimate sacrifice
for our sins.
In doing so, He is the precious Savior and King who literally
supports the temple, He is the tabernacle, and the cherished divine presence
who dwells within each believer, becoming our salvation and righteousness. The
Apostle Paul eloquently expresses this as “God wanted to make known to them
the glorious riches of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you,
the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:26-27) This passage underscores the
importance of understanding God’s redemptive plan, which has now been unveiled
to His followers, inviting them into a deep, transformative relationship in
Jesus Christ, that He may mold and shape us as new creations as God’s sons and
daughters, preparing us to become God’s sacred space for His presence to dwell
permanently.
“His appearance is like Lebanon, as choice as its cedars.”
During the reign of Solomon, Lebanon captivated the world with its magnificent
cedar forests, where towering trees stood tall, their stately forms rising
proudly against the sky. This revered wood, celebrated for its exceptional
durability and natural resistance to rot and pests, became a prized resource
for monumental construction projects, including grand temples and opulent
palaces. Presently, forests comprise about 13.6% of Lebanon’s landscape, complemented
by an additional 11% of diverse wooded areas. Since 2011, the Lebanon
Reforestation Initiative has embarked on a transformative journey, planting
over 600,000 trees, including various species of cedars and other indigenous
plants, to revitalize the nation’s natural heritage and mitigate environmental
challenges. With their lush green foliage enduring year-round, these evergreen
cedars infuse the air with a calming essence that invites tranquility. The
sweet, aromatic notes of cedrol and cedar oil permeate the atmosphere,
enhancing the serene ambiance of cedar groves. This vivid comparison implies
that Solomon’s appearance embodies the timeless elegance, grandeur, and
enduring beauty of Lebanon’s cherished cedars, symbolizing strength and
nobility.
“His mouth is very sweet; he is utterly desirable.”
The sons of Korah composed a prophetic Psalm that profoundly captures this
sentiment: “You are the most handsome of all men; you speak in an impressive
and fitting manner. For this reason, God grants you continual blessings”
(Psalm 45:2).
In this passage, His words flow from His lips like nectar,
rich with sweetness and warmth, embodying a divine blessing poured out upon the
bride. This sweetness transcends mere flattery; it reflects His deep
affection, enveloping her in a sense of worthiness and cherished love that
makes her feel truly seen and special.
In response, the bride exuberantly claims that He is
“totally desirable,” which can be interpreted even more profoundly as
“altogether lovely.” Her admiration extends beyond physical allure; she
perceives Him as the epitome of beauty, grace, and charm—someone whose radiance
surpasses anyone else who has ever lived or will ever exist.
Describing perfection seems almost futile; how can one
capture the essence of something so transcendent? Yet, she earnestly strives to
articulate her feelings. With vivid imagery, she aims to convey to the maidens
of Jerusalem the depth of her love and the indelible mark He has left on her
heart. Through her heartfelt words, she seeks to illustrate His striking beauty
and the gentle strength and elegance that define His presence, making every
encounter with Him unforgettable.
She beautifully concludes with an
impassioned declaration, “This is my beloved! This is my companion, O
maidens of Jerusalem!” This dramatic buildup creates a tapestry of
anticipation and profound affection. In this intimate moment, she offers a
glimpse into her heart by sharing her personal testimony of her delightful experiences with Solomon, illuminating the depth of their
emotional bond.
Similarly, we can invite others
into our journey by sharing our own experiences with Jesus Christ, allowing
them to witness His nature as a loving God, who is tender-hearted and
compassionate toward us. Despite our imperfections, he sees us as radiant,
beautiful, and without spot or blemish.
Although it may seem unusual that
she meticulously describes her beloved in vivid physical terms, this approach
reflects the depth of her connection and the personal nature of their
relationship. Peter encourages us to adopt a similar posture of openness when
sharing our testimonies of faith: “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord
as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a
reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
having a good conscience, so that when you are slandered, those who revile your
good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.” (1 Peter 3:15-16). This call
to share our faith compels us to engage with compassion and sincerity,
illuminating the transformative power of faith.
Stephen Barnett
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