My Darling, You Are As Beautiful As Tirzah, As Lovely As Jerusalem

“My darling, you are as beautiful as Tirzah, as lovely as Jerusalem, as awe-inspiring as bannered armies. Turn your eyes away from me—they overwhelm me! Your hair is like a flock of goats descending from Mount Gilead. Your teeth are like a flock of sheep coming up from the washing; each has its twin; not one of them is missing. Like a slice of pomegranate is your forehead behind your veil. There may be sixty queens, and eighty concubines, and young women without number. But she is unique, my dove, my perfect one! She is the special daughter of her mother; she is the favorite of the one who bore her. The maidens saw her and complimented her; the queens and concubines praised her: “Who is this who appears like the dawn? Beautiful as the moon, bright as the sun, awe-inspiring as the stars in procession?’” Song of Solomon 6:4-10 NET

This poem in Chapter Six stands out for its considerable length compared to the texts we previously explored, yet it remains an elegantly cohesive piece —a singular poem that conveys a unified expression of thought and emotion. Attempting to break it into smaller sections would disrupt the seamless flow and continuity that the author carefully crafted. In this passage, the Bridegroom lends his voice; Solomon passionately addresses the Shulamite woman, creating a vivid dialogue that is rich with affection and imagery. This exchange serves as a poignant metaphor, illustrating the profound relationship between Jesus and His followers.

The beauty of this scripture rests in its ability to encapsulate the essence of love—a genuinely heartfelt love poem from the Bridegroom to His bride. This theme of romantic devotion is not merely a fleeting sentiment; it has emerged as a powerful motif throughout the book. Earlier chapters have established this pattern, as evidenced by another love letter in Chapter 4, verses 1-7, which employs the same lush, poetic imagery that resonates through this chapter. Furthermore, in Chapter 5, verses 10-16, we encounter a love letter from her to Him, beautifully illustrating the deep, reciprocal admiration that thrives between them.

As we continue our exploration, it becomes evident that we have yet to fully immerse ourselves in these love letters. Biblical scholars often label them as descriptive poems, as each one intricately enhances our understanding of the relationship portrayed. In fact, in Chapter 7, the first nine verses again draw us into the world of love letters from Him to Her, perpetuating this beautiful narrative of romantic devotion and emotional intimacy. Let us pause to delve deeper into this poem in Chapter 6 —an intriguing love letter —savoring the rich nuances and themes woven throughout its captivating verses.

“My darling, you are as beautiful as Tirzah.” This heartfelt declaration captures a blend of admiration, love, and intimacy, evoking deep emotional resonance. In Hebrew, the term for beauty, “rayah,” translates as “companion” or “friend,” symbolizing the profound bond between the speaker and the beloved. Here, Solomon, embodying Jesus, conveys to the Church—His beloved bride—just how radiant and cherished she is. One might wonder, ‘So what? He has expressed this sentiment before.’ While that is indeed true, His words hold even greater weight now, particularly considering her recent failings.

She had entered a season of spiritual sluggishness, a state reminiscent of the early verses in Chapter 5, where we find her languishing comfortably in her bed. When her beloved calls out to her, she hesitates, ensnared by her comfort, unwilling to rise and engage with her Bridegroom. In this moment of neglect, she forfeits a precious opportunity to connect with her lover. One might expect a storm of anger or disappointment from Him, perhaps the admonishment, “I’m really disappointed in you, young lady.”

Have you noticed that, despite the Shulamite woman clearly sinning by refusing to allow her Beloved into her cherished home, she does not face punishment or harsh judgment from her Beloved? Instead, there is a remarkable absence of condemnation in her experience. Yet, she does suffer severe consequences—she is beaten by the merciless night watchmen, a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk in the shadows when we resist love’s invitation.

This scenario powerfully illustrates the reality that the enemy is always lying in wait, ready to deceive and torment us at our most vulnerable moments when we fail to respond to our Beloved’s gentle call. If only the Shulamite had opened her door to he Beloved, she could have avoided the painful ordeal that followed.

In much the same way, the Lord patiently knocks at the door of our hearts, yearning for a deep and intimate relationship with us. However, we often choose to ignore Him out of fear, uncertainty, or spiritual complacency, which inadvertently allows a stranger—the adversary of our souls—to enter. This enemy revels in sowing seeds of doubt, accusations, and despair in our minds.

In these trying moments of trial and testing, it is crucial for us to lean on our brothers and sisters of faith, like the Shulamite leaned into the support of the maidens of Jerusalem. Their support, encouragement, and prayers can be like a balm to our wounded spirits, helping us rediscover clarity and peace amidst the chaos. Together, we can resist the darkness that seeks to invade our hearts when we neglect to open the door to our Beloved by allowing His love to illuminate our lives, restore our souls, and dispel the lies. Then, in a remarkable act of grace and compassion, her Beloved lovingly declares, “My darling, you are beautiful.”

He draws a comparison between her and two significant cities, evoking rich imagery and meaning. Why would this bride be likened to these urban landscapes? “And I saw the holy city—the new Jerusalem—descending out of heaven from God, made ready like a bride adorned for her husband.” (Revelation 21:2) Here, the bride mirrors the splendor of the heavenly city, enhancing our understanding of her beauty and sanctity. It’s captivating that as John speaks of this celestial city, he recounts, “Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven final plagues came and spoke to me, saying, ‘Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb!’” (Revelation 21:9). This connection strongly emphasizes that the Church, much like a magnificent city, embodies divine beauty, grace, and purpose.

The phrase “You are as beautiful as Tirzah, as lovely as Jerusalem” invites us to reflect on Tirzah’s rich heritage. The name itself translates to ‘pleasantness’ or ‘favor,’ evoking images of a charming landscape bathed in beauty. Historically, Tirzah was a Canaanite city that evolved into the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, marked by Solomon’s grand architecture and luxurious structures that adorned its skyline. Solomon’s references to Tirzah in Ecclesiastes further solidify its esteemed status, a testament to its significance in the ancient world.

Asaph, a revered worship leader during the reign of King David, was a remarkable figure known not only for his exceptional musical talent and poetic prowess but also for his prophetic insights (2 Chronicles 29:30; Nehemiah 12:46). His distinct musical style was marked by a powerful and evocative quality, which deeply resonated with the spiritual climate of ancient Israel. Asaph held a prominent role among David’s three chief musicians, alongside the talented Heman and Ethan, (also known as Jeduthun,) emphasizing the centrality of music in Israelite worship and its vital connection to the community’s faith.

Asaph’s introduction into the biblical narrative is particularly significant, occurring during the transfer of the Ark of the Covenant from the humble abode of Obed-Edom to the bustling city of Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15:16-19). This moment was pivotal in Israel’s spiritual journey, as the Ark symbolized the very presence of God among His people. Asaph not only led the vibrant music service within the tent where the Ark resided but was also recognized as the king’s seer, a title denoting his esteemed role as a spiritual advisor and messenger of divine wisdom.

His Psalms are rich with vivid imagery and profound themes, capturing the awe-inspiring nature of divine magnificence. In Psalm 50:2, he declares, “From Zion, the most beautiful of all places, God has come in splendor,” underscoring Zion’s sanctity as a spiritual beacon. In the Old Testament context, Zion frequently serves as a synonym for Jerusalem, reinforcing its identity as a sacred city steeped in holiness and divine presence, a place where heaven meets earth.

The sons of Korah, another esteemed group of worship leaders, complement Asaph’s legacy by composing poetic tributes that extol Jerusalem’s beauty and significance. They joyfully proclaim, “Beautiful in elevation, the joy of all the earth, Mount Zion, in the far north, the city of the great King” (Psalm 48:2). Their verses resonate with a sense of reverence and admiration, affirming not just the physical beauty of the city, but also its spiritual grandeur. In another reflective Psalm, they express, “People say wonderful things about you, the city of God,” celebrating the profound love and spiritual richness that Jerusalem embodies within the tapestry of biblical faith.

Through these vivid comparisons, Solomon accentuates the beauty and significance of His bride, illustrating that even amid neglect and failure, she remains profoundly loved and valued. The imagery of these cities reflects not just her outer beauty but also her vital role in the divine tapestry, symbolizing hope, grace, and ultimate redemption in the grand narrative of faith.

The phrase “as awe-inspiring as bannered armies” gives rise to a striking and vivid image of a bride who inspires and evokes respect. In a spiritual sense, it is a picture of a Church that stands resolutely assured of its glorious and victorious identity. This depiction goes beyond the surface of a weary congregation drained of enthusiasm; it also steers clear of illustrating a bride who languishes in complacency—indicating the desolate state she found herself in earlier in Chapter 5 before her revelatory awakening. Instead, the description portrays the Church as both militant and triumphant—a vibrant, dynamic community exuding strength and resilience, anchored in a powerful, victorious identity. She  stands boldly, with unwavering confidence, convinced that the formidable gates of Hell will never prevail against her, especially when she draws upon the transformative and empowering strength of the Lord Jesus.

Earlier, the bride beautifully expressed, “He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love” (Song of Solomon 2:4). In this context, the banner served as a profound symbol. This emblem signifies an identity to the approaching army, embodying its strength, unity, and purpose. In this context, Solomon uses the same imagery to portray his bride not only as cherished and celebrated but also as a radiant embodiment of divine love that strengthens her Spirit and fuels her actions. This vivid representation describes the essence of a Church infused with conviction, purpose, and a deeply rooted sense of identity, poised to engage in spiritual battles with both courage and unwavering faith.

The term “awe-inspiring” conveys notions of fear, terror, potency, and dread, creating a vivid impression of the bride’s overwhelming majesty and courage. A poignant illustration of this can be found in the exhilarating account of Moses and the children of Israel as they make their miraculous passage across the Red Sea. After escaping the oppressive clutches of Egypt, they celebrate their extraordinary victory with jubilant songs of triumph, declaring, “The nations will hear and tremble; anguish will seize the inhabitants of Philistia. Then the chiefs of Edom will be terrified; trembling will grip the leaders of Moab, and the inhabitants of Canaan will shake with fear. Fear and dread will fall upon them; by the greatness of your arm, they will be as still as stone until your people pass by, O Lord, until the people whom you have redeemed.” (Exodus 15:14-16).

This compelling passage in Exodus vividly underscores the overwhelming authority of God and His active intervention in the lives of His people. It serves as an inspiring reminder of the remarkable strength and resilience that reside within the Church when it is confidently aligned with its divine purpose and mission. The Church, embodying the body of Christ, draws upon His divine strength to overcome obstacles and face adversities head-on.

In a beautiful parallel, the prophet Isaiah articulates a similar message with profound eloquence, in the King James Version of the Bible he proclaims, “So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him” (Isaiah 59:19). This poignant imagery powerfully communicates the omnipresence and protective nature of God, suggesting that even in the face of overwhelming opposition, the Spirit will raise a metaphorical banner of love and hope.

This standard represents not just divine protection but also exemplifies the character and identity of the Church. It serves as a reminder to believers that they are called to embody the essence of love, grace, and resilience, reflecting God’s glory as they journey through life’s trials. Empowered by this divine mission, the Church stands firm, not merely as a sanctuary of faith but as a vibrant force for transformation in a world desperately in need of hope and healing. Through such alignment with God’s purpose, believers can confront any challenge with unwavering confidence, knowing they are emissaries of a greater truth and power, as sons and daughters of royalty in a heavenly Kingdom, called to illuminate even the darkest corners of existence with the light of Christ.

“Turn your eyes away from me—they overwhelm me!” There is something about her eyes; earlier Solomon stated that “You have stolen my heart, my sister, my bride! You have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes” (Song of Solomon 4:9a). To me, it indicates a measure of spiritual growth, both eyes looking at her Savior. He indicates that He can’t handle it, “Turn your eyes away from me—they overwhelm me!” This word is used four times in the entire Old Testament, and in this one instance, it means overcoming me by strengthening me. Do you ever think that, as we adore Him, serve Him, and worship Him, it encourages and strengthens Him? It helps Him, it puts a smile on His face and a spring in His step, your eyes, they overwhelm me.” It causes me to reflect on the story about Jesus walking on the road to Emmaus with two of His disciples, explaining the scriptures to them. “As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.” Luke 24:28-29 The word ‘strongly’ is the Greek word ‘parabiazomai,’ which carries the same meaning as the Hebrew word for ‘overwhelm’ in Song of Solomon. God is not overwhelmed with our intentions; yet He is overwhelmed with our love for Him.

“Your hair is like a flock of goats descending from Mount Gilead,”  that is, long, glistening, flowing, black hair. This is how He described her hair earlier. Even though she sinned by previously rebuffing His love, He is still using the exact terms of endearment and the same word pictures, because His love has not changed. Her sin cannot make Him love her any less, for He loves her with an unconditional love that is based solely upon His provision for her, not on her performance to Him.

“Your teeth are like a flock of sheep coming up from the washing; each has its twin, and not one of them is missing.” This striking imagery evokes a sense of purity and completeness, much like a pristine flock of sheep emerging from a stream freshly cleaned. Just as teeth are essential for our ability to eat and savor the flavors of life, meditating on the word of God is crucial for our spiritual nourishment.

Sheep, like other ruminants, possess a remarkable digestive system characterized by four distinct stomachs. Each stomach plays a vital role in meticulously breaking down the grasses they consume, transforming coarse strands into finer particles. The final stomach, known as the abomasum, is where powerful acids and enzymes work together to further digest and ferment the food, allowing optimal nutrient absorption before it is eliminated.

Similarly, we receive the word of God as a sumptuous feast, engaging with its teachings and allowing it to nourish our souls. However, just as the natural process of digestion requires time for further processing, our spiritual growth demands reflection and deliberation. This thoughtful meditation enables our minds and hearts to distill (or ferment) the essence of spiritual truths, turning the divine word into transformative insights that resonate deeply within us.

The imagery of “her teeth being like a flock of sheep coming up from the washing” conveys not only the cleanliness and brilliance of her teeth but also a dedication to self-care, highlighting the importance of maintaining both our physical and spiritual well-being. “Each tooth, paired perfectly with its twin,” symbolizes harmony and wholeness—indicating that nothing essential is lacking in her life. This diligent care reflects the practice of savoring and masticating (or chewing) on the word of God. By delighting in, reflecting on, and savoring the richness of scripture, she embraces the profound wisdom it offers, enriching her everyday existence and deepening her faith.

“Like a slice of pomegranate is your forehead behind your veil.” Pomegranates are red with red seeds; the forehead represents the temples, the mind, the thoughts; sprinkled with the blood of Jesus, full of seed bearing witness to the work of Christ, bringing others to salvation through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. The red juice of the pomegranate upon the forehead helps me to consider “Do I think in the right way, are my temples geared toward the thoughts of God? The Apostle Paul gives us a guide on how to think: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

“There may be sixty queens, eighty concubines, and young women without number,” the text beautifully illustrates the opulence and complexity of life within Solomon’s resplendent court. Each number represents not just the vast array of women surrounding the king, but also the dazzling wealth and grandeur of his reign. The progression from sixty to eighty and ultimately to innumerable numbers highlights the overwhelming abundance, accentuating the seemingly boundless allure of Solomon and his palace. Yet, despite this sea of beauty, it is the bride —the Shulamite woman —who captures the eye of King Solomon, reflecting the profound truth that genuine beauty and love transcend mere pleasures and numbers, and status.

This numerical journey resonates with the parable of the sower in the Gospel of Mark. “Listen! A sower went out to sow.  And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on rocky ground where it did not have much soil. It sprang up at once because the soil was not deep. When the sun came up it was scorched, and because it did not have sufficient root, it withered. Other seed fell among the thorns, and they grew up and choked it, and it did not produce grain. But other seed fell on good soil and produced grain, sprouting and growing; some yielded thirty times as much, some sixty, and some a hundred times.” And he said, “Whoever has ears to hear had better listen!’” (Mark 4:3-9).

In this parable, Mark artfully conveys the transformative power of the gospel, illustrating how the truth of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection can spread like seeds in varied terrains, leading to remarkable growth even amidst adversity. This message of hope and renewal remains vibrant and dynamic, unshaken by the trials of our current age. God’s sovereignty endures; He reigns from His heavenly throne, nurturing faith and guiding the flourishing of hearts and minds that are open and ready to embrace His word, just as the sower nurtures the seeds in the fertile soil of minds that are ready to receive His word.

“But she is unique, my dove, my perfect one!” Doves, renowned for their unwavering loyalty and steadfastness, not only form lifelong bonds with their mates but also symbolize profound devotion and fidelity. Their gentle demeanor and pristine appearance often make them emblematic of purity, rendering them a perfect choice for sacrificial offerings in Jewish tradition, where the essence of sacrifice must reflect holiness and commitment.

When he affectionately refers to her as “my perfect one,” it highlights her extraordinary purity—an embodiment of grace and exaltation, untouched by worldly imperfections. The Hebrew word for perfect one is ‘tam,’ which conveys a sense of being ‘whole, complete, or undefiled.’ This signifies that her entire heart is wholly dedicated to the Lord, her thoughts align seamlessly with His divine will, and her body serves as a living sacrifice, selflessly devoted to God’s higher purpose.

Her dedication is not merely admirable; it is a profound testament to her character. She embodies unity, standing as one, unwavering and potent, untouched by the chaos that often arises from discord and strife. Instead, she radiates an aura of harmony and peace, exemplifying an enduring spirit of love and commitment that elevates her relationship with her Beloved above the ordinary. In her presence, one is reminded of the beauty of true devotion and the strength found in unwavering loyalty.

“She is the special daughter of her mother,” we know for a fact that this Shulamite woman has brothers, as we read in Chapter 1:6. But she is unique as she is the only daughter or special daughter of her mother; in other words, she is one of a kind. When you compare her to sixty, or eighty, or even innumerable maidens, the comparison is very high praise. She praised Him in Chapter 5; now He praises her again, but in a different way. No matter how hard you try, you cannot out-praise the Lord, you cannot out-give Him, you cannot out-adore the Lord. He will honor you if you honor Him.

“She is the favorite of the one who bore her.” The word ‘favorite’ is the Hebrew word ‘bar,’ which means ‘purity,’ and it also has the idea of ‘preciousness,’ “she is the choice of the one who bore her.”

“The maidens saw her and complimented her,” in Chapter 5, the maidens compassionately listened to her and helped her to seek after her Lover/Bridegroom. Now, “The queens and concubines praised her: “Who is this who appears like the dawn? The Shulamite is viewed as a virtuous woman: “A woman who fears the Lord—she makes herself praiseworthy. Give her credit for what she has accomplished, and let her  works praise her in the city gates.” (Proverbs 31:30b-31)

“Beautiful as the moon, bright as the sun, awe-inspiring as the stars in procession.” These evocative phrases encapsulate a profound truth about the depth of Jesus’ love for us—one that often surpasses our recognition. The adversary may seek to sow doubt, whispering that we are insignificant in the eyes of our Savior. Yet, the Scriptures reveal a vastly different narrative filled with purpose and promise.

In his poetic musings, King Solomon draws an amazing parallel between his beloved bride and cosmic geography—the glowing moon, the dazzling sun, and the majestic stars that adorn the night sky. His analogy does more than celebrate beauty; it evokes a sense of grandeur and cosmic significance, emphasizing that our inheritance in Christ is intricately woven into the majestic tapestry of creation.

Realizing what we are saved for transforms our perspective. We are not merely rescued from the depths of despair, or just given a free ticket to heaven, because Jesus is such a nice guy; we are called to embrace our identity as sons and daughters of the King of Kings, adopted into His royal family and invited to share in the unending riches of His glory. Beyond our status as cherished children, we are destined to displace the rebellious members of the divine council, stepping into that role alongside Christ Jesus, a role that echoes through eternity. Our calling is elevated and awe-inspiring, far beyond the limitations of our imagination. “Now to the one who is able to do beyond all measure more than all that we ask or think, according to the power that is at work in us.” Ephesians 3:20

The Apostle Paul articulates this divine power with striking clarity: “This power was exercised in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above every rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And God put all things under Christ’s feet and gave Him to the Church as head over all things. Now the Church is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.” (Ephesians 1:20-23). This passage paints a vivid picture of Christ’s supreme authority, illustrating His dominion over all creation—encompassing the seen and unseen realms, including the Church, His beloved governing body.

Solomon perceived in His bride something far deeper and grander than mere physical allure; he recognized her profound symbolic significance. If Solomon had sought only external beauty or the transient pleasure of companionship, there would have been countless alternatives. Instead, the depth of Solomon’s poetry reaches into the mysteries of Christ and the Church, celebrating not just the aesthetic splendor of the bride but also the divine purpose and calling inherent within their relationship. This exploration invites us to appreciate the extraordinary love shared between Solomon and the Shulamite, and also between Christ and the Church, and it reminds us of the sacred and elevated role we hold within this divine union—an integral part of God’s magnificent design, imbued with purpose and brilliance.

These ideas may seem overly complex or even excessively spiritual to some, but when examined through the appropriate lens, they reveal a remarkable simplicity. It serves as a vivid metaphor for a return to the idyllic Garden of Eden. In this sacred realm, Adam enjoyed an intimate communion with God, strolling with Him in the soft, refreshing coolness of the evening. In those tranquil moments, we can envision a profound exchange between them, filled with reflective discussions about the marvels of creation—each vibrant flower, majestic tree, and delicate creature showcasing the boundless creativity of the divine artisan.

In this paradise, Adam’s role was one of harmonious collaboration, embodying the essence of a beloved son who placed his complete trust in and unwavering obedience to his Creator. His ability to trust and faithfully follow God’s guidance was truly admirable, until that moment when he chose disobedience, fracturing their once unbreakable bond.

Solomon employs rich, evocative imagery that would have deeply resonated with his early audience, bringing forth memories of the Edenic beauty and perfection that characterized the creation taught by generations of fathers who instructed their children in the creation stories. This imagery not only illustrates the splendor of that original Edenic relationship but also illuminates how God perceives His people as His cherished bride. Through the voices of the prophets, this message was repeated and conveyed to Israel, portraying their covenantal marriage relationship with God as one of immense love and unwavering commitment on God’s part. Despite Israel’s repeated rebellions and wanderings away from their divine commitments, God remained steadfast, honoring the sacred covenant of marriage. His enduring faithfulness stands as a testament to the depth of His love and the constant yearning for reconciliation in the relationship between the Creator and His cherished bride.

Stephen Barnett