How Beautiful Are Your Sandaled Feet, O Nobleman’s Daughter!

How beautiful are your sandaled feet, O nobleman’s daughter! The curves of your thighs are like jewels, the work of the hands of a master craftsman. Your navel is a round mixing bowl—may it never lack mixed wine! Your belly is a mound of wheat, encircled by lilies. Your two breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle. Your neck is like a tower made of ivory. Your eyes are the pools in Heshbon by the gate of Bath Rabbim. Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon overlooking Damascus. Your head crowns you like Mount Carmel. The locks of your hair are like royal tapestries—the king is held captive In its tresses! How beautiful you are! How lovely, O love, with your delights!

Your stature is like a palm tree, and your breasts are like clusters of grapes. I want to climb the palm tree, and take hold of its fruit stalks. May your breasts be like the clusters of grapes, and may the fragrance of your breath be like apples! May your mouth be like the best wine, flowing smoothly for my beloved, gliding gently over. Song of Solomon 7:1-9 NET

This time, we will delve into the profound beauty of Song of Solomon 7:1-9. These verses, more extensive than our usual focus, encapsulate the most intricate and lyrical love poem penned by King Solomon throughout the entire book. While the length of these verses may seem daunting at first, they should be approached as a cohesive unit to truly appreciate the rich tapestry of emotion and thought that the writer intended to convey. In these lines, the Bridegroom, Solomon, tenderly addresses his beloved bride, the Shulamite.

In our previous study, we explored the significance of her name, which intricately symbolizes the Church’s relationship to Christ. It’s essential to highlight from the outset that He finds her utterly captivating. The intensity of His admiration is palpable; He is utterly drawn in by His future bride’s beauty, grace, and character. If the parallels I’ve drawn hold true—if my thoughts on this remarkable book have illuminated its truths—then we, as those reborn into the New Testament Church, represent the cherished bride of Christ. In His eyes, we radiate a stunning beauty that reflects our divine worth to Him, just as the Shulamite woman's draw to Solomon.

It is all too common for us to gaze upon our sins and shortcomings, leading us to feel unworthy of His boundless love and grace. There are moments when we acutely feel our failure to embody the Christian principles we aspire to. Yet, despite these moments of self-doubt, He gazes upon us and sees beings that are lovely, beautiful, redeemed, and justified. The term "justified" is laden with profound meaning; it indicates that when He looks at us, He perceives no flaws or shortcomings. Instead, He sees us as cleansed and renewed, and washed in His precious blood—a transformative gift of grace.

But why does He regard us in such a magnificent light? The answer lies not in our own merit but in the essence of who He is. It is not about us; it is about Him, His nature, and His unconditional love. He has provided the means of redemption through His steadfast grace. His love is boundless, transcending every human limitation, soaring above any self-doubt or fear we might carry—greater than any negative thought we hold about ourselves. He looks beyond our earthly imperfections, viewing us through a lens of eternal promise and grace. This divine perspective allows Him to see our true worth as His beloved creations, worthy of a profound and everlasting relationship with Him.

As we explore verse 1, we encounter a beautifully evocative expression: “How beautiful are your sandaled feet.” In the love poems we’ve previously studied, the speaker often begins by celebrating the fairest features of the beloved—her head, her eyes, each facet of her beauty revealed in a gradual descent. However, this time the speaker takes a different approach, starting at her feet. This choice is deliberately significant because it emphasizes the feet as the body's foundation, symbolizing both strength and stability.

Why this focus on her feet? In our last discussion, we noted the passionate plea of the Bridegroom: “Turn, turn, O Perfect One, turn, turn.” This longing to gaze upon her encapsulates a deep admiration that transcends mere physical attraction. When the bride curiously asks, “What do you see in the Shulamite?” the Bridegroom replies, “I see a company of two armies.” This vivid imagery of a ‘company’ evokes a scene of exuberant joy, reminiscent of a victorious army engaging in celebratory dancing, filled with life and energy. He envisions her movements as a vibrant expression of triumph, representing not just physical grace but also a profound spiritual victory over all that would threaten her joy.

This emphasis on her feet may signify that her joyful dancing is not merely a physical display but a sacred act of worship. By focusing on her feet, the speaker underscores that there is nothing lascivious about her movements; instead, they are imbued with reverence and purity. The phrase “How beautiful are your sandaled feet, O nobleman’s daughter!” elevates her image, suggesting a nobility of spirit and character that imbues her physical beauty.

This invocation of feet also connects beautifully to Ephesians 6:15, where it says, “...and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.” The imagery speaks to the preparation and strength that come from a foundation rooted in faith. Furthermore, it resonates with the historical context of the Jews in the wilderness, as articulated in Deuteronomy 29:5: “I have led you forty years in the wilderness. Your clothes have not worn out on you, and your sandals have not worn off your feet.” This reference not only reinforces themes of divine protection and provision but also symbolizes steadfastness and resilience, adding further depth to the speaker's admiration for the bride's beautiful sandaled feet, laden with layers of meaning and significance.

The Bridegroom tenderly addresses the bride as “O nobleman’s daughter!” In the poetic language of the King James Version (KJV), this phrase transforms into “O Prince’s daughter,” underscoring a layer of royal significance. This title implies that she is not just any young woman; she is a cherished child of the King, embodying the essence of nobility and royalty, with regal blood coursing through her veins.

Though she humbly identifies herself as just a simple country girl, raised in a quaint rural town, she possesses a lineage that connects her to a heritage of honor and dignity. This notion of royal descent resonates powerfully with every believer in Christ Jesus. Regardless of our beginnings or the places we call home, His royal blood runs through each of us, linking us to a divine legacy.

In our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, we, like the Shulamite girl, are embraced as daughters of the Prince—a designation that bestows upon us a sense of honor and purpose. Moreover, in Revelation 5:10, the apostle John reveals an astonishing truth about our identity and calling: “You let them become kings and serve God as priests, and they will rule on earth.” This transformative promise elevates us from mere followers to empowered heirs, inviting us to participate in Christ’s kingdom and fulfill our roles as co-regents in His divine plan.

The first verse continues with a poignant declaration: “The curves of your thighs are like jewels.” In this expression, the speaker conveys deep admiration for the bride’s physique, affirming, "I love your curves." This phrasing transcends mere physical attraction or sexual desire; it reflects an appreciation for her beauty, symmetry, and the overall loveliness of her figure. When Jesus gazes upon His Church, He is filled with wonder at her beauty, echoing the sentiment: “The curves of your thighs are like jewels.” This metaphor not only highlights physical attributes but also symbolizes the intricate design and care that went into her form.

In this context, Solomon, too, observes the Shulamite woman with reverence, articulating His appreciation for her grace and character. Both the kings’ and Christ’s perspectives reveal a shared acknowledgment of divine craftsmanship, emphasizing that the creator behind such splendor is none other than Almighty God, who crafted her uniquely for His Son.

As reflected in the Scripture, “All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made.” (John 1:3). This passage underscores the belief in the intentional artistry prevalent in all creation. Further enriching this idea, Ephesians 2:10 states, “For we are his creative work, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we can do them.” This Scripture emphasizes that the divine craftsmanship of God the Father and God the Son is intricately evident in her beauty and purpose, revealing the profound intention behind every aspect of her being.

Together, these expressions convey that the admiration is not merely for her physical allure but also for the deeper significance of her existence. She embodies the artistry of a master craftsman, reflecting the beauty and artistry of creation and the meticulous care infused in her very form.

In verse two, we find a captivating depiction: “Your navel is a round mixing bowl—may it never lack mixed wine! Your belly is a mound of wheat, encircled by lilies.” This exquisite imagery illustrates Solomon's profound connection to the natural world, highlighting the beauty of fertile wheat, delicate lilies, and the graceful roes, akin to playful little deer darting through the fields. He paints a vivid picture of the lush, vibrant landscapes of Mount Carmel, a region renowned for its abundance of life and flourishing plants.

Much like Solomon, Jesus expressed a deep reverence for creation, often weaving elements of nature into His teachings. His parables overflow with vivid imagery, calling listeners to reflect on the simple yet profound wonders of the world. He spoke of the beauty of wildflowers, urging us to “Consider the lilies of the field,” and highlighted God’s attentive care for every creature, stating that not even a single sparrow falls to the ground without His notice. This abiding relationship with nature reflects a divine appreciation for the intricate tapestries of life that surround us.

When Solomon mentions “your navel,” he refers to the midsection of the body, a significant symbol in Hebrew culture that can be likened to the concept of the “womb.” This metaphor of the navel as a mixing bowl conveys the nourishing and life-giving qualities he sees in the Shulamite woman. Solomon’s words suggest that he envisions her as destined to be a fertile and nurturing wife, much as Christ views the Church. In His parable of the sower, stating “But these are the ones sown on good soil: They hear the word and receive it and bear fruit, one thirty times as much, one sixty, and one a hundred.”(Mark 4:20). This analogy emphasizes our calling as believers to cultivate new followers of God through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, birthing them into His kingdom of love and grace.

The text gives no indication that the Shulamite is unclothed; instead, she may be gracefully adorned in her wedding garments, or perhaps she is draped in a stunning wedding gown that glimmers with intricate details and elegant embellishments. The arrangement of the poetry presents a richness that makes it difficult to pinpoint a timeline; it could coincide with her wedding day, a moment of celebration when He praises her radiant beauty and inner grace.

As believers, we take heart in the assurance that we will not stand before our Savior in our nakedness; instead, we will be enveloped in the glorious righteousness of Jesus Christ, the beloved Son of God. This promise is beautifully articulated by the prophet Isaiah: “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God, for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation; He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a splendid headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels” (Isaiah 61:10). This rich imagery of adornment emphasizes the dignity and splendor that await believers as they are embraced by the grace and love of God.

In verse three, the expression “Your two breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle” has been interpreted by many modern commentaries through a lens of sexual innuendo. While one can view this metaphor as an illustration of the affection and devotion a husband should embody towards his wife, I prefer to explore a deeper meaning that transcends physical attraction and earthly desires.

In biblical literature, breasts are often employed as symbols of sustenance and nurturing. Much like a newborn baby, who instinctively seeks out its mother’s breast for vital nourishment, individuals who are drawn to Christ—experiencing the transformative power of spiritual rebirth through your ministry or personal testimony—also need to be fed with the foundational truths of Scripture, often referred to as the “milk” of the Word of God. The imagery of “two fawns, twins of a gazelle” enriches this metaphor; just as young deer require attentive care and nourishment to flourish and mature, new believers need guidance, support, and spiritual food to develop into individuals who can eventually sustain themselves on the deeper teachings of the faith, symbolized by the lush “green grasses and leaves” in the fields of life.

Moreover, deer and gazelles are not only beautiful creatures but also exemplify grace and modesty. They are easily startled and tend to retreat at the slightest hint of danger, underscoring a profound quality: the virtue of modesty, often embodied by women. This perspective highlights that their bodies—particularly their breasts—are typically not meant for public display, but rather cherished and respected aspects of the woman’s femininity and identity. In this light, Solomon’s words to his bride convey His recognition of her integral role—not merely as His partner, but as a nurturing figure who provides spiritual sustenance to those who are young in their faith journey.

Isn’t it the mission of the Church to act as a nourishing body, fostering growth and maturity among its members? We aspire for those newly introduced to the faith to grow from the initial “milk” of the Word, which establishes their foundational understanding, to engaging with the “meat” of richer, more profound teachings that will equip them for spiritual growth and maturity. This transformation enables them to engage with and apply biblical truths in meaningful ways, ultimately cultivating a robust, vibrant faith community where all members can thrive.

In Verse 4 of the Song of Solomon, the vivid imagery “Your neck is like a tower made of ivory” evokes a striking combination of beauty and strength. Ivory, sourced from the majestic tusks of elephants, is not only known for its remarkable durability but also for its exquisite luster, captivating in its smoothness and elegance. By likening her neck to a tower of ivory, the speaker conveys a sense of grace and nobility, highlighting her upright posture that embodies both poise and dignity.

Throughout the Song of Solomon, the adornment of necklaces further enhances her allure, adding layers of femininity and charm. The comparison to an ivory tower also resonates with the imagery of the Tower of David—a formidable stronghold renowned for its fortitude and strategic watchfulness. This symbolizes that she is not merely an object of admiration but also a figure of strength, capable of standing tall and vigilant in the face of life's challenges.

Additionally, this rich imagery has profound implications for the broader journey of the Church. Often referred to as the "Church militant," it represents the collective struggles and resilience of believers navigating a complex world, ultimately transforming into the "Church triumphant," which signifies victory and enduring faith. Such powerful symbolism calls upon individuals to cultivate a strong, upright spiritual stance, embodying resilience and unwavering faith in their personal standing with God. This invitation to embrace both inner beauty and outward strength resonates deeply, encouraging believers to aspire to a life marked by grace, courage, and unwavering devotion.

“Your eyes are like the tranquil pools in Heshbon, gracefully located near the grand gate of Bath Rabbim.” Heshbon, an ancient city nestled in the fertile eastern Jordan Valley, is a notable landmark, situated close to the shimmering waters of the Dead Sea, making it one of the lowest-lying cities in the region. Situated about twenty miles southeast of Jerusalem, Heshbon thrived as a vital center for trade and agriculture in its time. The name Bath Rabbim, meaning “daughter of a multitude” or “daughter of strength,” evokes a sense of majesty, underscoring the significance of this city’s entrance, which served as a gateway to thriving communities and bustling activity.

Surrounding this gate, the aqueduct-fed pools glistened under the sun, embodying serene beauty and often used in poetic expressions to symbolize the bride’s radiant eyes in the Song of Solomon. Solomon’s heartfelt praise for her eyes suggests that they reflect not only beauty but also depths of purity, holiness, modesty, and godliness. These beautiful fish pools, with their calm, mirror-like surfaces, evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, paralleling the grace and virtues associated with the bride.

Heshbon formed part of the tribal territory of Gad, one of Israel’s twelve tribes, whose name signifies “troop” or “tribe.” The tribe of Gad was well-known throughout history for its military valor and strategic prowess during the conquest of Canaan. This depiction of Gad serves as a powerful metaphor for the militant Church, highlighting our calling to stand as a united force in faith, very much like a disciplined battalion of soldiers working harmoniously towards God’s divine purposes. The designation Bath Rabbim, meaning “daughter of great power and abilities,” further underscores the strength and potential inherent in this spiritual community.

In this poignant context, God conveys His admiration for His Church, portraying it as the beloved bride worthy of praise. This theme beautifully parallels the sentiments expressed in Proverbs 31:10-31, a passage that celebrates the virtues of a godly woman and affirms that her worth surpasses that of rubies. This Scripture honors the diligent, noble, and industrious spirit of such a woman, drawing an exquisite parallel to how Solomon’s words elevate the profound love and respect shared between Him and His bride, and also Christ and His Church, illuminating our inherent value and significant role in His grand design.

The latter part of verse 4 captures beauty in the phrase, “Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon overlooking Damascus.” This captivating imagery elevates the nose to an object of beauty, a distinction that is often overlooked in contemporary society. For many individuals, the nose is a source of self-consciousness: perceived as either too prominent or too subtle, it may evoke feelings of inadequacy. Yet, in this verse, the comparison does not hinge on such measurements; instead, the nose is described as perfect—elegantly balanced and exquisitely proportioned in harmony with the overall features of her face, representing a divine appreciation of her unique beauty.

Although the significance of her nose may not be immediately evident, she embodies a profound understanding gleaned from her spiritual experiences, particularly her ability to discern the fragrant presence of the Lord Jesus. In this context, He recognizes her as a delightful aroma; this notion resonates with the first three of the five offerings outlined in Leviticus, known as the sweet savor offerings (see Leviticus 1:3-17). God exhibits a keen sense of olfactory discernment; when He perceives the foul stench of sin—the actions and attitudes that deeply offend His holiness—He beckons us to offer our very selves as living sacrifices. Romans 12:1 poignantly expresses this, stating, “Therefore I exhort you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a sacrifice—alive, holy, and pleasing to God—which is your reasonable service.”

The phrase “Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon overlooking Damascus” unfolds with layers of metaphorical richness. The ‘tower of Lebanon’ metaphorically evokes images of grandeur and strength but also encapsulates the essence of purity, as the name Lebanon derives from the etymological meaning “a place of whiteness.” In Chapter 1 of Song of Solomon, the woman describes herself as ‘black,’ a metaphor reflecting her sun-darkened skin rather than her ethnic background. Historically, women of Solomon's time were celebrated for their fair, lily-white skin; her labor under the sun may have darkened her complexion, yet the fading tan now reveals her inherent radiance, particularly her nose, which shines with a striking whiteness.

Moreover, this imagery offers another rich spiritual analogy. The Lord invites us, saying, “Come, let’s consider your options. Though your sins have stained you like the color red, you can become white like snow; though they are as visible as bright scarlet, you can be made white like wool” (Isaiah 1:18). This notion of transformation—where the ‘tower of Lebanon’ symbolizes purity and whiteness—intertwines with the reference to Damascus, which also has an etymological meaning as ‘The Beginning of Salvation’ or ‘The Full Turn in the Pattern of Salvation.’ This progression suggests a deeper spiritual journey: ‘You have been washed clean, like Lebanon. Now you are emerging from your past, set in the divine trajectory of redemption and salvation.’ This connection not only underscores the grace extended to her but also celebrates her intrinsic worth in God's eyes, inviting her to embrace her identity as both beautiful and redeemed.

“Your head crowns you like Mount Carmel. The locks of your hair are like royal tapestries—the king is held captive in its tresses!” The valley at the base of Mount Carmel is one of the most fertile and verdant regions in the Jezreel Valley, teeming with life and lush vegetation. This verse symbolizes that her head represents her thoughts—abundant and profound, filled with spiritual insight and reflecting the divine nature of God. The reference to her hair being reminiscent of the royal tapestries, the color purple signifies royalty; royal tapestries historically showcased this hue, which is closely linked to nobility and power. More importantly, she has learned to think like a King’s daughter, which affirms her immeasurable spiritual worth and dignity within His Kingdom. Psalm 45:1-17 written by the sons of Korah, a poem that beautifully illustrates how the King’s  bride has embraced the noble mindset of her King, embodying grace, wisdom, and strength in her character. I cannot include the details of Psalm 45 here due to the length of this post, but take some time to read it, and see that it is much like the Song of Solomon, where the bride praises the attributes of the King.

“…the King is held captive in its tresses.” The original Hebrew Word for “tresses” carries an element of ambiguity, yet the KJV translators chose the term “galleries,” providing a richer perspective on the King’s admiration. Envision an art gallery, where the King leisurely wanders from room to room, marveling at each breathtaking aspect of His bride's beauty and unwavering faithfulness, much like a work of art. He delights in her, saying, “Behold that magnificent head, adorned with thoughtful and spiritual reflections that shine brightly. Observe the delicate nose, exquisitely attuned to the sweet fragrance of My presence. Notice those graceful feet, capable of dancing joyfully before Me and standing resolutely in faith amidst life’s trials. Pay close attention to her fruitful midsection, a symbol of her diligent labors and unwavering commitment to growth and productivity.” The King is utterly captivated by the myriad facets of His bride's spiritual beauty, recognizing that each detail is a testament to her devotion. The bride, as compared to us in our human weaknesses and shortcomings, Jesus finds deep and abiding beauty in His bride, the Church, knowing that one day she will stand perfected before Him, radiant and pure, without wrinkle or blemish, which is from this potential that He sees us.

In verse six, the sentiment is expressed, “How beautiful you are! How lovely, O love, with your delights!” Here, the term "delights" captures the essence of ‘daintiness’ and ‘pleasantness,’ evoking a sense of delicacy and charm. She embodies an ideal of feminine beauty, radiating not only physical allure but also a magnetic character that draws admiration from all who encounter her. Throughout this poetic exploration, Solomon fervently praises her, describing her as beautiful, pleasant, and fair. Each of these adjectives emphasizes not just her external beauty but also the enchanting qualities of her spirit, grace, and charisma. His repeated accolades reflect the intensity of His admiration, painting a portrait of a woman whose presence is both captivating and impactful, making her truly extraordinary in every sense.

Verse 7 beautifully states, “Your stature is like a palm tree.” Here, “stature” not only references her physical height but also encapsulates her grace and uprightness. A palm tree, with its tall and straight trunk, embodies strength, elegance, and resilience; it stands firm against the elements and does not bend or yield easily. The speaker affectionately expresses, “My darling, when you walk, you exude an air of confidence and poise; there’s nothing lazy or slouchy about your posture. You stand tall, like a majestic palm tree swaying gently in the breeze.”

To bring this vision into contemporary terms, imagine a girl or woman diligently practicing on a narrow exercise balance beam. Every movement requires utmost precision and grace; her balance and posture must be flawless to navigate the beam without faltering. This imagery emphasizes both physical elegance and an inner strength that commands admiration.

Delving deeper into the symbolism of the palm tree, we find that its fruit—dates—are clustered atop its tall trunk. This can be interpreted as a representation of spiritual fruition. Remarkably, the palm tree thrives even in the harshest deserts, drawing moisture from the air rather than relying solely on underground water. This resilience can be likened to the life of a Christian, who finds spiritual sustenance not in the often chaotic and unforgiving world below, but from a higher plane, a divine source. This nourishment replenishes their spirit, allowing their faith to blossom and their spiritual fruit to abundantly flourish.

As the verse continues, “…and your breasts are like clusters of grapes.” Earlier, we explored the rich symbolism of grapes, which often represent the joy of community and celebration; grapes are commonly linked to wine, a symbol of merriment and abundance. Referring to “clusters” evokes the notion of a double portion of blessings. This idea is underscored by the biblical principle from Deuteronomy 21:17b: “…But He shall acknowledge the firstborn by giving Him a double portion of all that He has, for He is the first fruits of His strength. The right of the firstborn is His.”

Hence, the clusters of grapes serve as a vivid metaphor for joy and spiritual richness, compelling believers to seek nourishment and fulfillment far beyond worldly desires or resources. By focusing on these higher, spiritual truths, believers can cultivate their inner lives, producing vibrant spiritual fruit that reflects their faith and deep connection to Jesus. The imagery paints a picture of a flourishing spiritual existence, characterized by resilience, joy, and a profound sense of purpose.

Now, there is a profound shift in our text. Until this moment, The Bridegroom has been captivated by His bride, admiring her beauty with an earnest gaze and expressing heartfelt praise for her radiance. However, we now witness a transformative declaration. He proclaims, “I want to climb the palm tree and take hold of its fruit stalks.” This vivid metaphor reveals His intention to ascend the alluring beauty of the palm tree and tenderly grasp its fruit stalks, which symbolize her breasts. There is nothing impure or inappropriate in this imagery; it expresses a deep, passionate affection.

He longs to embrace her intimately, as if to convey, “I desire to love you deeply, to hold you close, to kiss you with fervor, and to articulate the depth of my love for you. I yearn to inhale your unique fragrance, which one might liken to the sweet aroma of ripe apples.” In this context, she is akin to the apple tree in the garden, a cherished symbol of nourishment and comfort. In the earlier chapters, she found joy and solace beneath its shady canopy, a sanctuary that signifies safety and gentleness. Her breasts, described as clusters of the vine, further illustrate her beauty and fertility, enhancing the imagery of nourishment and abundance.

Should we interpret this verse in the context of marital relationships? It would be a misstep, for the passage serves as an allegorical depiction of the divine relationship between Christ and the Church. Proverbs 5:18-19 beautifully states, “May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife you married in your youth—a loving doe, a graceful deer; may her breasts satisfy you at all times; may you be captivated by her love always.” While this passage may initially seem to speak of physical love between spouses, it carries a far more profound significance for our spiritual nourishment. It underscores the importance of loving others and serving one another, which brings true joy to the heart of Jesus. He delights in the profound truth of our devotion to serving Him through others, prompted by our sincere love for Him. This illustrates the sacred and transformative bond between Jesus and His faithful followers.

Verse 9 beautifully articulates, “May your mouth be like the best wine, flowing smoothly for my beloved, gliding gently over.” As I meditate on this evocative Scripture, I am drawn to the profound significance of the act of kissing, which symbolizes a deep, intimate expression of love—an act I will delve into shortly. Throughout Scripture, wine is a powerful metaphor for joy, yet we must recognize the vital distinction between mere good wine and the transcendent best wine. This contrast evokes the memory of the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed His miracle of turning water into wine. To the astonishment and delight of every guest, the finest wine was served last, an emblem of divine joy and generosity. In John 2:7-10, we read: “Jesus told the servants, ‘Fill the water jars with water.’ So they filled them up to the very top. Then he told them, ‘Now draw some out and take it to the head steward,’ and they did. When the head steward tasted the water that had been turned into wine, not knowing where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), he called the Bridegroom and said to him, ‘Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the cheaper wine when the guests are drunk. You have kept the good wine until now!” This magical moment serves as a poignant reminder of God's ability to provide abundantly and His deep desire to fill our lives with His finest blessings.

Additionally, Psalm 2:12 offers a powerful exhortation: “Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.” The metaphor of “kissing the Son” carries rich connotations of bowing in reverence and surrendering our hearts and lives to Him. It emphasizes the relational depth that God yearns to establish with each of us. Acknowledging this profound love is essential; He longs for a close, eternal bond with us. By engaging in daily intimate fellowship, it feels as if not only have we approached and kissed our Savior, but that He also embraces and kisses us in return, showering us with His unrelenting affection. This experience is akin to savoring the most exquisite wine, the best wine, each sip a delightful reminder of pure joy.

The phrase “May your mouth be like the best wine” vividly illustrates the beauty of words that flow with sweetness and grace. When our conversations are infused with kindness, encouragement, and compassion, they nourish and uplift those who hear them. God pays close attention to our spoken words, especially when we uplift each other and share the joy that resides deep within our hearts. As Malachi 3:16 highlights, “Then those who feared the Lord spoke with one another. The Lord paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the Lord and esteemed his name.” This verse illustrates the profound significance of our dialogue about faith and the precious bonds we cultivate as a community of believers.

Reaching the end of verse 9, we encounter a transformative shift in speakers, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative. I believe this change occurs because, after absorbing the depth of Solomon’s loving expressions interwoven throughout this particular poem, she is enveloped in a renewed sense of assurance regarding her intrinsic worth and beauty. Solomon, the illustrious King, recognizes her unparalleled value, echoing the message that we, too, are cherished by our Savior—viewed as exquisite and vital participants in His sacred work. In this moment of confidence, she boldly interjects, a sign of her blossoming character. While such an interruption might be deemed improper or inpolite, in Kingly social circles, or even a breach of etiquette, it is clearly inspired by the guiding hand of the Holy Spirit.

She exclaims, “flowing smoothly for my beloved, gliding gently over.” The English Standard Version (ESV) expresses it as, “It goes down smoothly for my Beloved, gliding over lips and teeth.” Here, the term for “Beloved” in Hebrew, “dod,” evokes a powerful image of fervent, boiling love—her affectionate description for Him. She ardently conveys, “My darling, the wine you refer to flows so sweetly, accompanied by your words of praise, awakening the very hearts of those who have been slumbering.” It’s essential to note that she had previously succumbed to drowsiness in chapter 5, reflecting a period of spiritual lethargy. Now, however, she acknowledges that the beauty of His love has not only awakened her spirit, but also ignited a fervent desire to serve Him wholeheartedly for the remainder of her days.

Oh, how He loves! Oh, how He loves you and me! Let us rejoice in His glorious name, celebrating the vastness of His love and the profound joy that comes from walking in close, abiding fellowship with Jesus, our Bridegroom.

Stephen Barnett