Where Has Your Beloved gone, O Most Beautiful Among Women?

 
Where has your beloved gone, O most beautiful among women? Where has your beloved turned? Tell us, that we may seek him with you. My beloved has gone down to his garden, to the flowerbeds of balsam spices, to graze in the gardens, and to gather lilies. I am my lover’s and my lover is mine; he grazes among the lilies.” Song of Solomon 6:1-3 NET

Can you believe we are in Chapter Six of the Song of Solomon? The book is only eight chapters, so we are making significant progress. Not being rushed, we have taken our time to taste and enjoy these little love poems. This time, we will examine Chapter Six, verses one, two, and three. Before we begin, let me make a general observation about our text: It is not the most popular or quoted set of verses from the Song of Solomon. Out of the eight-chapter scope, these three verses have received the least attention in most commentaries, and yet they are essential and integral to the poem that we are now studying. Technically speaking, this poem begins in Chapter Five of the Song of Solomon, verse two, and does not end until Chapter Six, verse three.

This section begins with two questions posed by the maidens of Jerusalem, who are captivated by the elusive Bridegroom. These young women, accustomed to the city’s bustling life, find themselves deeply curious about Bridegroom’s character and the Shulamite bride’s feelings for him. In the preceding passage, the Shulamite bride revealed her heart-wrenching sorrow, saying, “I’ve lost Him. He came by, and I didn’t answer the door. He’s gone elsewhere. If you see Him, would you tell Him I am lovesick?” This poignant proclamation of her yearning and despair captures the essence of her devotion, echoing with raw emotion. The maidens, moved by her vivid longing, eagerly seek to unravel the mysteries of such a passionate love, compelled by the depth of feeling that resonates through the Shulamite’s words.

Do you notice something? The maidens of Jerusalem begin to refer to Him with the same name that the Shulamite bride uses when she addresses Him. As you might expect, the maidens don’t say, ‘Where has Solomon gone?’ or ‘Where has the King / Shepherd / Jesus gone?’ No, they ask, “Where has your beloved gone?” Why the sudden shift in identification?” She has called Him her beloved from the beginning and said, ‘I love Him with all of my heart, but I didn’t respond appropriately when He came by. I’m so sorry and want to make it right again.’ She has called Him her beloved, in Hebrew it is ‘dod,’ boiling hot, fervent love, and they have picked up on her name for the Savior. In the same way, if we say good things about the people of God, others will pick up on those good things and likewise reflect those good things. “…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)

“Where has your beloved gone, O most beautiful among women?” The Hebrew verb for ‘gone’ is “halakh,” which often translates as ‘walked.’ This implies that He has ventured out for a stroll, perhaps seeking solace amid the beauty of nature or a moment of introspection. She, however, has turned away and rejected Him, resulting in His departure. So the question lingers: Where has He gone?

Notice how they uniquely address her as “O most beautiful among women.” This Shulamite woman, often burdened by feelings of inferiority when measured against the poise and refinement of the maidens of Jerusalem, presents a stark contrast. She hails from a pastoral background, a simple country girl who lacked the advantages of wealth and privilege. Her days were spent toiling under the sun in her family’s vineyard, earning her sunburnt skin and planting seeds of doubt in her heart about her own worth. In contemporary terms, she embodies someone from ‘the wrong side of the tracks,’ lacking the finesse and sophistication often associated with city life.

Yet, in a stunning display of love and admiration, her beloved—the Bridegroom, Solomon, Jesus, our Lord and Savior—calls her “O most beautiful among women.” It’s a potent reminder that although we may struggle to see ourselves as beautiful, often feeling spiritually inadequate or behind in our journey of faith, in the eyes of our Savior, we are indeed the ‘most beautiful among believers.’ He holds a view of us that transcends our insecurities and societal labels, or personal insecurities that might cloud our perception.

The maidens of Jerusalem are beginning to uncover profound truths through this Shulamite woman’s unwavering devotion and authenticity. They are not just learners but awakening to their own spiritual beauty, gradually drawn closer to the Savior through her radiant example. “Where has your beloved gone?” they ask, echoing her heartfelt affection for Him. It is noteworthy that even now, the Holy Spirit is actively working in the hearts of these young maidens, revealing to them the beauty and depth of the Beloved, awakening a deeper understanding of love and acceptance.

Now for the second question: “Where has your beloved gone?” The Hebrew verb rendered as “turned” is “panah,” a term that appears forty-two times in the Old Testament, translated as “to look.” This word imbues the text with a deep significance: wherever the Bridegroom—or the Savior—wanders, He constantly looks for those yearning for salvation. He actively searches for the weary souls weighed down by life’s burdens, offering them rest and comfort.

In response to the Shulamite’s heartache, the maidens of Jerusalem express their desire: “Tell us, that we may seek Him with you.” This “we” encompasses a group of young women, united in their eagerness to embark on the journey alongside her in pursuit of her Beloved. The Hebrew word for “seek” is “baqash.” It conveys the sense of searching with fervor and zeal. Their declaration speaks volumes about their commitment: they are not mere spectators in this quest; they vow, “We will seek Him together with you, pouring our hearts and energies into this endeavor.”

Moreover, the Hebrew word for “seek” also translates to “require,” adding another layer of meaning to their plea. This word choice reveals a profound urgency; they share the understanding that the Shulamite will find no peace or fulfillment until she is reunited with her beloved. They echo her sentiments, declaring, “We will not know peace until He is found. We require His presence; our lives are incomplete without Him. Knowing Him is essential to our well-being.”

There is one translation, where the word “seek” is expressed as “beg,” an articulation that emphasizes the profound determination and unyielding tenacity with which the maidens pursue Him. Their commitment is unmistakable: should they fail to discover Him through their passionate search, they resolve to join the Shulamite in earnest prayer, fervently imploring Him to draw near and partake in their communal fellowship. This collective yearning highlights their desire for connection with the Shulamite and reflects a profound spiritual thirst for intimacy with Her Beloved. The intensity of their longing is a powerful reminder of their shared hope that reuniting the Shulamite with her Beloved will bring them all the peace and fulfillment they desperately crave.

But why is there such an intense longing to know Solomon, or, in a broader sense, Jesus? Previously, the maidens lacked this fervor; so what stirred this powerful yearning? The answer lies in the final poem of chapter five that we just explored, where the Shulamite woman passionately extols the virtues of her Solomon, her Bridegroom. She joyfully proclaims, “My beloved is dazzling and ruddy; he stands out in comparison to all other men.” The King James version beautifully expresses this: “My beloved is white and ruddy, the chiefest among ten thousand.”

The maidens, utterly entranced by her vibrant descriptions, listen with rapt attention as she elaborately describes her Beloved: “His head is like the purest gold, radiating splendor. His hair is curly—black as the wings of a raven. His eyes resemble doves gliding by serene streams of water, washed in silky milk, twinkling like precious jewels. His cheeks are like lush garden beds, fragrant with the perfume of balsam trees. His lips are as delicate as lilies, dripping with exquisite drops of myrrh. His arms are strong and graceful, like rods of gold adorned with shimmering chrysolite. His abdomen, a masterpiece, appears like polished ivory inlaid with sparkling sapphires.” (Song of Solomon 5:11-13)

She concludes her adoration by saying, “His mouth is very sweet; he is totally desirable.” Alternatively, the King James version ardently translates her words, “…He is altogether lovely!” To her, He is not just a figure of beauty but “my beloved, is my friend!” Captivated by her passionate declarations, the maidens of Jerusalem feel an irresistible compulsion to know Him too. “Where has he gone?” they ponder. “We will seek Him with you, pursue Him, implore for His presence, and find Him alongside you.”

The Shulamite woman’s heartfelt testimony becomes a powerful paradigm of witnessing for Christ. In her simplicity and sincerity, she embodies the essence of sharing the beauty and splendor of her Bridegroom with those around her. This act resonates profoundly with our calling to share our experiences of Jesus, for the more vividly we describe Him, the more the Holy Spirit draws others towards His beautiful, loving presence.

Through her vibrant testimony about her Solomon, the Shulamite woman transforms her words into a catalyst, drawing the hearts of the maidens of Jerusalem closer to the Lord Jesus Christ. This essence of soul-winning allows our lives to become living testaments of His grace, compassion, and love.

It is also imperative to recognize the striking contrast in her life during this tumultuous period. While she exuberantly celebrates the wondrous attributes of her Solomon, she simultaneously endured the brutal beating and humiliation inflicted by the night watchmen, as detailed in the previous post. This experience subjects her to deep emotional and physical pain akin to what we might recognize as sexual assault. It is vital to understand that, like the Shulamite woman, we can emerge as powerful witnesses for Christ even amid our suffering. When we wholly lean on Jesus in our trials, we can illuminate even the darkest circumstances with Christ’s light.

In anguish, she unwaveringly proclaims, “…He is altogether lovely!” This embodies a transformative faith that can turn suffering into a profound testament of love and devotion. By her powerful witness, the maidens of Jerusalem transition from mere indifference into passionate seekers of the Lord Jesus Christ. Encouraging them with her fervent belief in her Solomon. “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near.” (Isaiah 55:6)

In the opening of the Song of Solomon Chapter 1, the bride’s profound yearning for intimacy with her Bridegroom unfolds with striking clarity as she passionately declares, “Oh, how I wish you would kiss me passionately! For your love is more delightful than wine” (Song of Solomon 1:2-4). This evocative plea captures the essence of her desire, likening love to a sumptuous, intoxicating delicacy that surpasses even the finest of wines, suggesting both sweetness and the intoxicating effects of deep connection.

Her love for Solomon runs deep, rich, and layered. Even in Chapter 5, verse 2, where she falters in her response by denying access to Him knocking at her door—a moment that reflects the complexities of human emotion—she ultimately reaffirms her devotion in Chapter 6—This momentary hesitation reveals the intricacies of love and longing, showcasing the tender vulnerability that often accompanies such deep affection.

With this intricate emotional landscape in mind, the bride is now eager to extol her beloved, to portray him as irresistibly lovely, and to capture the hearts of the maidens of Jerusalem. In Chapter 1, when she passionately proclaims, “Draw me after you; let us run,” she extends an impassioned invitation for intimate fellowship. The phrase “Draw me” is singular and reveals her yearning for closeness. At the same time, “Let us run” is plural and signals the collective enthusiasm of the maidens, eager to accompany her on this sacred journey. This interplay beautifully illustrates the harmony between personal longing and shared joy, a desire for unity in pursuit of love.

The subsequent line, “The King has brought me into His chambers,” paints a vivid picture of a sanctuary—a realm of safety, intimacy, and profound closeness. His chambers symbolize not just a physical space but a sacred invitation to explore the depths of love, experience the warmth of connection, and revel in the tender nuances of affection.

If you, too, find yourself yearning to pursue Jesus or are seeking a meaningful fellowship with Him, know that He stands ready to welcome you into His confidence and envelop you in His chambers. There, beneath His lush, fruitful tree—a metaphor for boundless blessings and spiritual nourishment—you will discover a haven of peace, joy, and a sense of belonging that transcends the mundane, inviting you to immerse yourself in the richness of His love.

That was a brief yet illuminating sidetrack as we delved into the bride’s initial responses in the book. As we advance into Chapter 6, specifically verse 2, we confront a complex challenge for rationalists who strive to impose a logical and systematic framework on every aspect of understanding scripture. Perhaps it’s best to reflect on this profound truth: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord” (Isaiah 55:8). This verse highlights the immense chasm that exists between divine wisdom and human reasoning, inviting us to embrace mystery rather than dissect it.

As I ponder when she will truly meet Him or when her heart will finally recognize His presence, I realize the text leaves this answer shrouded in ambiguity. Throughout her arduous search—facing the cruelty of the night watchmen, who harry her with ridicule and abuse, and contending with the disdain from the maidens of Jerusalem—could it be that He has been there all along, lingering just beyond her line of sight, offering silent encouragement and unwavering love?

The chorus of a timeless song beautifully encapsulates this sentiment:

“Standing somewhere in the shadows you’ll find Jesus, 

He’s the friend who always cares and understands. 

Standing somewhere in the shadows, you will find Him, 

And you’ll know Him by the nail prints in His hands.”

She remains blissfully unaware that her spiritual laziness dulls her sensitivity to the tender presence of the Lord Jesus. It would not surprise me if He has been patiently waiting, a constant source of love and hope. This notion resonates deeply with verse 2 in Chapter 6, where she once asked Him back in Chapter 1, “Where will I find you?” His gentle reply was, “If you do not know, O most beautiful among women, follow in the tracks of the flock, and pasture your young goats beside the shepherds’ tents.” (Song of Solomon 1:8)

In her heartfelt expression, in Chapter 6, verse 2, she declares, “My Beloved has gone down to His garden.” It is significant to note the phrase “gone down,” which in Hebrew is “yarad.” This term evokes the idea of descent, illuminating the fact that many of the gardens of ancient Near Eastern kings were strategically located outside their city walls. This arrangement allowed for both urban development and the serenity of nature. Jerusalem, set upon a prominent hill, means that to reach a garden beyond its boundaries requires a descent, often spanning several miles through rugged terrain until one arrives at an idyllic oasis, rich with fragrant blossoms and the soothing sounds of rustling leaves.

The phrase “Gone down” also beautifully encapsulates the profound spiritual journey of His descent into her heart, suggesting a deeper connection that transcends physical presence. Although He is not standing beside her in flesh and blood, His essence envelops her inner garden—a sacred space that He has tenderly nurtured within her soul. This garden flourishes with love, hope, and faith, representing the transformative power of His presence.

This transformative moment is illuminated by the extraordinary account of Jesus’s crucifixion, when He appeared to His disciples after His resurrection, bringing hope and renewal. In a pivotal encounter, He reached out specifically to Thomas, the disciple grappling with doubt. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation: “And after eight days his disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Although the doors had been shut, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said, “Peace to you.”

Then he said to Thomas, “Place your finger here and see my hands, and place your hand and put it into my side. And do not be unbelieving, but believing!” Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen me, have you believed? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” (John 20:26-29)

This profound exchange highlights Thomas’s transformative journey from doubt to unwavering belief and powerfully reminds us of the deep spiritual connection we can cultivate beyond the confines of physical evidence, fostering a faith that flourishes in the heart.

Earlier in the poems, she was His garden, symbolizing her flourishing Spirit. She is beginning to comprehend that due to her spiritual laziness, she has mistakenly viewed the garden as an existential location rather than the sacred space that her Beloved has meticulously cultivated within her heart. Although she may have lost touch with her intimate fellowship with Solomon, her relationship with Jesus remains steadfast and vibrant. She is still His cherished bride, loved unconditionally and eternally, a reminder that even in moments of distraction or doubt, she is never truly alone. His enduring love envelops her, inviting her back to the deep communion that awaits within her Spirit.  “…“I will never desert you, and I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5b

I know where He has gone “to the flowerbeds of balsam spices, to graze in the gardens, and to gather lilies.” He is still concerned about my growth and maturity, even though I have temporarily lost fellowship with Him.  What is He doing down there in His garden? He is shepherding, He is guarding, He is enjoying His time there, He is being nourished. I know where He is, He’s come back, I’ve recognized my error, and repented, I realize that He is in my life, in fact, He never left, He’s in my heart sweeter than He’s ever been before. It is like the chorus to the song:

“Everyday with Jesus, Sweeter than the day before;

Everyday with Jesus I love Him more and more;

Jesus saves and keeps me, He’s the one that I adore;

Everyday is sweeter, Sweeter than the day before.” 

In verse 2, we see a shift in the nouns from singular to plural, reflecting a broader scope: “grazing in the gardens” and “to gather lilies.” This suggests that we are not the only ones who belong to Him; rather, Jesus, portrayed as the divine gardener, actively enters the community of believers—His assembly—to cultivate their spiritual gardens and gather lilies from their lives. This metaphor enriches our understanding of His nurturing role, emphasizing His care and attentiveness.

When Jesus is present in His garden, the transformation in the bride’s heart is profound. Her testimony of Him becomes compelling and inviting, radiating a spirit that draws the maidens of Jerusalem to desire Him even more fervently. This interaction evokes a powerful sense of attraction to Jesus and the community of believers. Why does He choose to feed in His gardens? Because sweet fellowship flourishes when He is present, allowing us to reflect our deep desire, love, and admiration for Him, just as the bride does. Indeed, He is altogether lovely, embodying the fullness of beauty and grace.

In the book of Revelation, specifically chapters 1-3, Jesus addresses the seven churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Without going into specifics, in each of these churches, Jesus is feeding and nurturing among their gardens, illustrating His intimate involvement in their spiritual health. As He tends to these gardens, He gathers the lilies—representing the faithful individuals within the Ecclesia.

In verse 3 of today’s text, the imagery evolves from a solitary lily among thorns to a collective body that has left worldly distractions behind. This signifies a community that is united in purpose and devotion to Him. We encounter various interpretations when we consider what it means for Him to gather lilies. One such perspective suggests that He is just collecting a lilies to bring close to Him, such as to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, but another perspective is that He is ‘earmarking’ those who are uniquely called into His service. This is reminiscent of the Shulamite woman, whose incredible testimony reflects the transformative power of His love and influence in her life so that others may benefit from her narrative.

Through these layers of metaphor and imagery, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dynamic relationship between the divine gardener and His gardens. This highlights the beauty of community, individual faith, and Jesus’s nurturing nature.

Verse 3 elegantly captures the profound formula for intimacy between the Ecclesia and the bride, symbolized by the Shulamite woman and King Solomon. The declaration, “I am my lover’s and my lover is mine; he grazes among the lilies,” beautifully encapsulates their deep connection and mutual belonging. In our spiritual journey, when we choose to live in alignment with the Holy Spirit, especially during the trials that accompany our quest for Jesus, we must remember that He takes joy in nurturing and tending to His garden—which is each of us.

Imagining ourselves as a delicate lily nestled within His vibrant garden, we can understand that His grazing among the lilies signifies the living embodiment of the fruit of the Spirit flourishing within us. The apostle Paul articulates this beautifully in Galatians 5:22-23a, stating, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Each trait reflects the heart of Christ and calls us to embody these virtues in our daily lives.

The phrase “I am my lover’s and my lover is mine” reappears twice in the Song of Solomon, though expressed differently: “I am my lover’s and I am His” (Song of Solomon 2:16). In the beginning, the Shulamite saw Solomon as a gateway to her desires—captivated by the allure of His majestic palace and yearning for the abundance of promises and blessings he offered. Her perspective was transactional: “I am His, and everything He possesses belongs to me.”

As her journey unfolds, we witness a remarkable transformation in her understanding of love and devotion: “I am my lover’s and my lover is mine.” This evolution signifies her spiritual maturation and deeper insight into their relationship. She emerges from viewing Solomon merely for his gifts, recognizing instead the profound commitment that love entails. She realizes she belongs to Him—He is her Lord and Savior—inviting her to pour out her entire being in devotion. This commitment becomes a sacred honor, reflecting her loyalty and trust.

Moreover, the phrase “my lover is mine” resonates with a beautiful assurance. In surrendering herself entirely, she acknowledges that He will lovingly nurture her Spirit, meet her deepest needs, and guide her through life’s uncertainties with unwavering grace. This relationship transcends the superficial; it is a covenant of love, rich in mutual devotion and trust, each moment deepening their bond in faith and shared purpose.

The narrative of our relationship with Jesus unfolds like a rich tapestry, intertwining various threads of love, hope, and spiritual growth. Initially, we are drawn in by the allure of His love—radiant and transformative—and the myriad gifts He bestows upon us, such as peace, joy, and the promise of an eternal home. These enticing elements invite us into a relationship that brims with possibility and wonder.

Yet, as we journey deeper into our faith and navigate the complexities of life, we arrive at a profound realization: the true treasure does not lie in the gifts Jesus offers but in Jesus Himself. He becomes our cornerstone, providing purpose and direction in our lives and in an uncertain world.

The metaphor of abiding in the true vine paints a vivid picture reminiscent of a lush vineyard within a garden. Just as the vine sustains its branches, infusing them with life and nourishment, Jesus envelops us with His boundless agape love—an unconditional, self-sacrificial love that nurtures our souls. (See: John 15:1-4)

Throughout this transformative journey, we gradually come to understand that Jesus permeates every aspect of our existence. He dwells powerfully within the internal garden of our hearts—a sacred sanctuary where growth, joy, and peace flourish. This inner landscape invites us to engage in a deeper communion with Him, urging us to cultivate our relationship and recognize His hand at work in our lives, revealing the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Stephen Barnett