I Am My Beloved’s, And His Desire Is For Me

“I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me. Come, my beloved, let us go out into the fields and lodge in the villages; let us go out early to the vineyards and see whether the vines have budded, whether the grape blossoms have opened and the pomegranates are in bloom. There I will give you my love. The mandrakes give forth fragrance, and beside our doors are all choice fruits, new as well as old, which I have laid up for you, O my Beloved.” Song of Solomon 7:10-13 ESV

We are nearing the end of Song of Solomon. All that we have left after this study is Chapter 8. I have barely gotten over our last survey of Chapter 7:1-9. Oh, what love the Bridegroom expressed for His bride. Oh what love Christ Jesus has for us, both individually for His bride, and collectively for His little Children, all members of His Divine family.

As we dive deep into Song of Solomon 7:10-13, we have this memory of what we studied last which was exemplary, Solomon has so expressed His love for the Shulamite woman, that she finally responds and speaks, and although her response is not as long as Solomon’s soliloquy in verses 1-8, what a beautiful poem she delivers with the beauty it contains. If I were a Pastor, I would plow into these verses and do a verse by verse study of the entire Song of Solomon. And with this text today, it would absolutely be one of the poems I would spend a great deal of time with.

We must take time to delve deeply into verse 10, as it holds immense significance for our study today: “I am my Beloved’s, and His desire is for me.” This beautifully succinct statement captures the essence of her devotion: “I belong to Him.” As a community of believers and as individuals, we come to recognize that we are not our own; we have been redeemed at an extraordinary cost—the precious sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. We do not merely belong to ourselves; we belong to Jesus, and this profound truth reshapes our identity and our purpose. And because we are a part of the ‘body’ of Christ, we also belong to each other; we are a collective of believers who have the same goal: to be transformed to become Christlike in our thinking, our actions, and emotions by the love of Christ that firmly holds us.

The verse continues with the profound assertion, “…and His desire is for me.” The Hebrew word for "desire" here is ‘teshuqah,’ conveying a deep, passionate longing or craving. This term evokes the vivid image of God’s heart yearning for us with an intensity that defines His relationship to us. It originates from the root word ‘shuwq,’ which means to overflow or bubble up with fervor. This imagery paints a picture of God’s love as an ever-flowing, ever-present fountain, cascading with grace toward us, symbolizing His unwavering commitment to unconditional love and affection.

Understanding these words is vital to grasping the depths of His love and the relationship He seeks with us. If we could only fathom the magnitude of His love, spiritual apathy and lethargy in our lives would be extinguished; we would be energized entirely, actively engaged in our faith without fail, and be resolute in our commitment, never tempted to backslide. Instead, the abiding love of God would fuel our actions, awakening a fervent desire to serve Him without reservations on our part.

The Apostle Paul expresses this sentiment powerfully in 2 Corinthians 5:14-15: “For the love of Christ controls us, since we have concluded this: that Christ died for all; therefore, all have died. And He died for all so that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him who died for them and was raised.” Paul underscores that the love of Christ is our guiding force, compelling us to obey His will wholeheartedly, to serve Him selflessly, and to love Him passionately. “His desire is for me” encapsulates the depth of this truth, revealing a relationship rooted in mutual longing, but it began because He loved us first.

Another evocative interpretation of ‘shuwq’ is “to stretch or reach out for” or “to long for.” How beautifully God reaches out to us! How He craves our companionship! His heart yearns to envelop us in protection and care while consistently affirming to us, “His desire is for me.”

The Shulamite woman articulates her profound devotion for the third time within a richly layered context, signaling a significant transformation in her relationship with her Beloved. Let’s delve into her declarations across the chapters to fully appreciate her spiritual journey.

In Chapter 2:16, she fervently states, “My lover is mine, and I am his; he grazes among the lilies.” This initial proclamation reveals her possessiveness and deep affection, portraying the relationship through the lens of personal benefit and emotional security: “I am His.” Many of us resonate with this perspective when we first embrace faith; we often find ourselves reflecting, “He is mine; He has rescued me from eternal separation, and I’m destined for an everlasting home in Heaven! He is preparing a radiant place just for me; He hears my prayers—this is nothing short of miraculous!” This early phase captures the joy of divine blessings, focusing primarily on the benefits and assurances woven into the fabric of faithful companionship. The evocative metaphor, “He grazes among the lilies,” invites her — and us — to reflect on hers as well as our roles and significance within this caring relationship.

As her spiritual odyssey unfolds, we witness a profound shift in Chapter 6:3, illustrated by her declaration, “I am my lover’s, and my lover is mine; he grazes among the lilies.” In this moment, a beautiful symmetry emerges, emphasizing the depth and intertwining nature of their bond. Her affirmation of “I am my lover’s” showcases her evolving understanding of her identity within this sacred relationship. This transition from a possessive viewpoint to one of mutual belonging marks her spiritual maturation, articulating her burgeoning awareness of a reciprocal and committed partnership with her Bridegroom, Solomon. It is the same way when a believer grows in relationship with Jesus. She acknowledges, like we do, with newfound clarity, “I belong to Him, and my destiny is with Him, my home is is in heaven; my inheritance includes all the King’s resplendent palaces.” Here, she fully embraces the divine providence orchestrating her life's trajectory.

Furthermore, she arrives at a critical realization: “Even if He never answers another prayer or blesses me again, I am still His. I adore Him and am wholeheartedly dedicated to living for Him, and if required, even dying for Him. I have joyfully surrendered my life in service to Him.” This evolution signifies profound spiritual growth, solidifying her heartfelt focus in the poignant declaration: “I am my Beloved’s.”

In Chapter 7:10, she expresses her devotion yet for a third time in an even more transformative light: “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me.” This crucial moment does not simply signify a shift; it embodies a profound metamorphosis in her understanding and spiritual maturity. The change in her response is striking and layered with meaning. While she begins with the phrase “I am my Beloved’s,” her focus has now gracefully transitioned from a self-focused inquiry of “What can He do for me?” to a profound commitment of purpose—“How can I love and serve Him?” Upon grasping the intensity of His overwhelming desire for her—of how He cherishes, longs for, and passionately yearns for her—she becomes undeniably lovesick with devotion. This transformation illustrates a deeper understanding: it is no longer merely about what she might gain from this relationship, but about how she can eagerly reciprocate that boundless love and serve Him with her whole heart, mind, and spirit. This moment marks a breathtaking crescendo in her spiritual evolution, embodying a mature, profound grasp of her beloved’s heart and an unwavering pledge to their sacred union.

She attains a remarkable level of spiritual enlightenment and maturity, recognizing that her relationship with the King transcends her personal desires. He loves her with an indescribable fervor and intensity; the focus shifts from her own needs to His profound and passionate desire for her: “…His desire is for me.” Though this transition encourages us to ponder the intricacies of her spiritual journey: What catalyzed this deeper insight into the heart of her Beloved? I believe this transformative moment is enriched in Chapter 7, verses 1-8, where her Bridegroom tenderly reaffirms His love through a cascade of poetic, intimate word pictures and gestures. His declarations brim with vivid imagery and heartfelt affection, each word resonating like a soft melody in her soul. These passionate expressions of love penetrate the very core of her being, inspiring a powerful reaction that irrevocably alters her perspective and life. It is no different for us when the Lord takes us on the same spiritual journey, revealing His desire for us in ways that speak to our hearts and affirming the depth of His love for us. This is why the text continues in verse 11: “Come, my beloved.”

Earlier in the Song of Solomon, the Bridegroom came to her with an inviting warmth, saying, “Come with me...” (4:8). At that moment, she hesitated, her heart unsettled, and chose not to respond to his call. However, in our exploration today, a transformative change has taken place within her. Now, she boldly replies to Solomon, her divine Bridegroom (and this echoes in our relationship with Jesus as well), “Yes, I will go with you.”

She reflects thoughtfully on the rich lessons she has garnered along her journey of faith. She now understands that this profound relationship is not solely about her own wants and desires; it centers entirely on her Bridegroom. She has come to appreciate the necessity of giving Him the foremost place in her life, allowing His desires to take precedence.

With this newfound clarity, she perceives where His heart truly lies—deep among the fields, toiling lovingly in the vineyards, enveloped by the aromatic blossoms of pomegranates. She envisions Him nurturing the tender vines, passionately tending to the growth that yields an abundant harvest.

His fervent desire is for fruit-bearing, to cultivate and mature young Christians, guiding them toward a deeper understanding of faith. She has personally experienced this growth and transformation, and now stands ready to join Him in His mission. “I have blossomed in my own faith,” she proclaims, “and I am eager and prepared to follow you, wherever you lead, fully committed to the journey ahead.” This declaration marks a pivotal moment of alignment between her heart and His divine purpose for her life.

This scenario beautifully mirrors the experience of a newly married couple embarking on the journey of their shared life together. Imagine them basking in the warmth of their honeymoon, filled with excitement and discovery. When the bride asks, “What do you want to do today?" the groom, eager to make his bride happy, enthusiastically suggests, "Do you want to go shopping." The bride's face lights up in delight as she replies, "I love that! Let’s go shopping together." Yet, it’s essential to understand that his enthusiasm for shopping is not particularly strong; when faced with colorful trinkets and souvenirs, he might teasingly say, “Oh darling, let me get the money,” trying to maintain a light-hearted mood. His focus is entirely on her desires, his replies are often met with a chorus of “I want this, I want that,” underscoring his dedication to her happiness.

Over the next 10 to 15 years of their marriage, a transformation takes place. The wife begins to deeply comprehend her husband’s unwavering love—a love that reflects the profound devotion Christ holds for His Church. He continually prioritizes her needs above his own, demonstrating an almost sacrificial willingness to put her first. As she absorbs this realization, filled with gratitude for his selflessness, she recognizes that her feelings are evolving. “I want to do something that excites you,” she reveals. “Let’s explore places that captivate your interest.” In retrospect, she recalls the countless times he patiently accompanied her without a hint of complaint. Now, feeling grateful, she wants to reciprocate by doing something heartfelt for him and accompanying him.

This journey of growth echoes the transformation of the Shulamite woman. Her outlook shifts from a possessive attitude—one that revolves around claiming him or his resources—to a profound understanding that she can say, “I am His.” She begins to think, “What can I do to make you smile? Let me prepare your favorite meal with all the flavors you love,” or “What outfit could I wear that brings you joy?” or even “What hobbies ignite your passion that I can share with you?” She becomes attuned to the Bridegroom’s desires, recognizing that her ultimate goal is the same as the Lord’s goal, which is to reach out to the lost—to the seekers of grace and those yearning for strength in their faith.

The Bridegroom tenderly beckons, “Come, my beloved, let us go out into the fields…” The elegance of this invitation lies within the phrase “let us go out.” It embodies a significant principle: you find your closest connection to the Lord when you engage yourself in His work, fulfilling His desires and aligning your purpose with His—whether it involves leading souls to Christ or uplifting individuals seeking spiritual growth.

When He speaks of going out “into the fields,” He refers to rich farmlands and vast pastures, likely suggesting “cultivated fields” that demand care and cultivation. The whole essence of His invitation is, “Let us go out into the fields and find a place to lodge in the villages.” Notably, He doesn’t seek luxurious lodgings like the Hyatt or Hilton; instead, He yearns to visit the humble abodes of those who lead simple, yet meaningful lives.

Have you ever paused to marvel at how frequently Jesus traversed the quaint streets of small towns and villages throughout His ministry? One poignant example in the Gospel of Luke which describes how “Soon afterward, Jesus journeyed to a small town called Nain, accompanied by His disciples and a large crowd. As they approached the town gate, a sorrowful funeral procession emerged, bearing the lifeless body of a young man, the beloved only son of a widow. A substantial crowd from the town followed her, enveloped in grief. Seeing her, the Lord was moved with compassion and gently said, ‘Do not weep.’ He approached the bier, touched it, and commanded the young man to arise. In a miraculous moment, the young man sat up, began to speak, and Jesus restored him to his overjoyed mother.” (Luke 7:11-15).

Bethany, another quaint village, holds significance as the beloved home of Mary, Martha, and their brother Lazarus—a place where Jesus found warmth and connection. The Shulamite bride recognizes and embraces this; she, too, longs to visit these simple villages, echoing Jesus’s mission to reach out to those living in smaller, often overlooked communities. Jesus, born in the unassuming village of Bethlehem, embodies a Savior whose heart beats not only for the bustling life of metropolitan areas but also for the villages, the small towns, and the winding highways and byways across our landscapes. His call resonates with sincerity: “Come, my beloved, let us go out into the fields and find lodging in the villages.” Through this heartfelt invitation, He underscores the importance of compassion, connection, and a shared mission in reaching those in need.

In verse 12, the passage invites contemplation: “Let us go out early to the vineyards and see whether the vines have budded.” This prompts us to consider: Is this the same woman from Chapter 5 who hesitated to rise from her cozy bed when her Bridegroom came to her door? Back then, she expressed her reluctance with a dismissive, “Too late! You’re coming unannounced; I’m already snuggled under the covers, wearing my nightclothes, and I’ve washed my feet. I simply cannot be troubled to get up and face the inconvenience of your visit.” Her initial response paints a picture of a love that was half-hearted and lukewarm, reflecting a sense of reluctance to leave her comfort zone.

Now, however, her tone has transformed. Listen to her eagerness as she says, “Let us go out early to the vineyards and see whether the vines have budded.” If we were to embody the Bridegroom at this moment, we might question her sudden enthusiasm: “What about your need for restful sleep? What about the cleanliness of your feet before a night of rest and comfort? What of the potential inconveniences that come with such an early excursion?”

This delightful shift indicates an extraordinary change in her relationship with her Bridegroom. She has begun to recognize that her time with Him is a fleeting gift, precious and full of promise. The idea of visiting the vineyards implies not just a simple outing, but a shared journey into beauty and renewal. Her response reveals a deeper understanding, as if she were saying, “These trivial concerns of comfort no longer weigh upon me, or bother me; they fade into insignificance beside the joy of being in His presence. It’s no longer about my own needs; it’s all about Him and the shared experience of witnessing the blossoming life of the vines together.” What she is beginning to comprehend is that the blossoming garden is within her.

In Chapter 1, verse 6 of the Song of Solomon, the speaker poignantly reflects on her self-image, saying, "Do not gaze at me because I am dark, for the sun has looked upon me." Here, she expresses her feelings of unattractiveness, shaped by the harsh sunburn she has suffered while laboring tirelessly in her brother's vineyard. The sun's relentless rays have left her skin weathered and tanned, reinforcing her belief that she is undeserving of admiration. In her humility, she urges the maidens of Jerusalem to disregard her, as she feels unworthy of their attention. However, after the deeply transformative verses in Chapter 7:1-9, a shift occurs in her perception of herself when she hears many powerful affirmations: "I love you, and you are beautiful from the soles of your feet to the top of your head. I love you with an unchanging, unconditional, and everlasting love."

Her beloved’s words resonate with warmth and conviction, affirming her beauty in its entirety. He continues by expressing his longing to share His vineyard with her, saying, "My Beloved, I want to show you my vineyard." This invitation carries profound significance. Previously, she had toiled diligently in her family’s vineyards, burdened by the laziness of her brothers, who left all the work to her. Their negligence caused her to neglect her own vineyard—her self, her heart, and her dreams. Yet through the crucible of her struggles, she has emerged more self-aware and confident: "I’ve tried to cultivate the sweet aromas and fruits that I know you appreciate. I want to be a well-tended vineyard, and my Beloved, I am yours, you are the master gardener"

This beautifully encapsulates the essence of a true Christian journey: we become richly cultivated vineyards for our King, dedicated to bearing the fruits of righteousness that reflect the love and grace of Jesus Christ, our Beloved King and Savior. The progression and growth portrayed here illustrate a profound inner transformation, like a once-neglected garden, now flourishing with care.

With a hopeful invitation, she turns to her beloved: "Let us go out early to the vineyards and see whether the vines have budded." The Hebrew word for "budded," "parakh," embodies the essence of new beginnings, signifying not just growth but a flourishing burst of life. Together, they embark on a journey to discover if the grape blossoms have unfurled into delicate flowers and if the pomegranates, with their striking red hues, burst forth in bloom. If their visit occurs later in the season, they eagerly examine the grapes—feeling their firmness, admiring their rich colors, and judging their readiness for harvest. Are these grapes ready to yield the sweet juice that symbolizes joy and celebration in their lives? And do the pomegranates also offer signs of life? The pomegranate, with its vibrant seeds and luscious red meat, stands as a powerful emblem of fertility and spiritual abundance, representing not only the joy of harvest but also the potential to win souls for Christ, spark revitalization, and nurture substantial, sustainable spiritual growth.

"Let us see if they produce blossoms; there I will give you my love," she declares with heartfelt passion. Notably, she uses the word for "love" in its plural form, "dod," capturing the intensity and depth of her affection, a boiling hot love. This choice of language is striking, as the conventional plural form would often be "ahava." By selecting "dod," she aligns her expression of devotion with the fervent sentiments her beloved has previously expressed in poetry, highlighting a profound connection.

So how can her love be considered plural in multiple loves? The speaker suggests an offering of love that transcends mere sentiment—she expresses a desire to give her love in various dimensions: emotionally, intellectually, volitionally, physically, and spiritually. This multifaceted love is not limited to idyllic settings such as royal chambers or leafy apple trees in serene orchards. Instead, it thrives in practical, everyday places: vibrant fields, bustling highways, and quiet byways of life. "I'll give you my love, or loves," she asserts with newfound confidence. This declaration reflects her growth and maturity in understanding her love and her relationship. After absorbing the profound emotional depth of the love poem her Bridegroom shared with her in verses 1-9 of Chapter 7, she undergoes a significant transformation; and she is forever changed. The remaining chapter of the Song of Solomon reveals that she is undeniably a different person, embodying a depth and richness of character that she once believed was beyond her reach.

Let us immerse ourselves in verse 13: “The mandrakes give forth fragrance.” This verse unfolds an intriguing anomaly that invites deeper reflection. The term “mandrakes” is translated from the Hebrew word “duday,” which is often interpreted as ‘love-apple.’ This intriguing designation aligns beautifully with the Hebrew word “dod,” symbolizing the ardent, passionate love that flows between the Bridegroom and the bride. Their relationship can be likened to a radiant flame—intense, consuming, and brimming with fervor. Some may even describe this passionate connection to mandrakes with terms that evoke sensuality, tagging it as an aphrodisiac, a means to awaken desire.

Yet, when viewed through the lens of spirituality, the mandrakes’ alluring fragrance and the pomegranate’s striking blood-red color evoke the image of our Lord Jesus’s blood, symbolizing His profound sacrifice on the cross. This imagery not only deepens our worship but also beautifully illustrates the profound bond between the bride and the Bridegroom, capturing their union in divine love and grace.

In the Hebrew language, the word ‘fragrance’ is ‘re-akh,’ which resonates closely with ‘ru-akh,’ the term for the Holy Spirit. This relationship beckons us to explore the significance of the fragrance exuded by the mandrakes. Does the Holy Spirit possess a fragrance? Indeed, He does! The Holy Spirit embodies the very breath of God, an essence that infuses our lives with divine presence. In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit is portrayed as the fragrant essence of God's presence—He is, in truth, God Himself, enveloping us in His holiness.

As the mandrakes release their captivating scent, it drifts through the air like a sacred utterance, declaring boldly, “Jesus saves.” This potent message spreads through the land, buoyed by gentle breezes that carry hope and truth to distant hearts. Through this vivid imagery, we are reminded of the profound significance of the love shared between the bride and the Bridegroom, and of the eternal message of salvation that continues to resonate, inviting all to experience the transformative power of faith in Christ.

“The mandrakes give forth fragrance, and beside our doors are all choice fruits.” The word ‘choice’ comes from a Hebrew term meaning ‘precious,’ signifying not just any fruit, but the finest, handpicked selections that embody richness and quality. These delightful offerings are strategically placed at our doors, indicating accessibility and welcoming us into a shared space. Jesus, the emblematic door to the sheepfold, invites us to recognize this transition from ‘His’ doors to ‘our’ doors—an invitation to a home we now share, a sacred communion. “I am your garden,” sings the essence of our connection, where we work together to nurture relationships and guide souls into a profound engagement with you. Our mission is to bear luscious fruit that not only honors but glorifies Him.

“At our doors are all choice fruits, both new and old.” This phrase beckons us to contemplate the intricate dance between freshness and maturity in our spiritual lives. The ‘new’ fruits symbolize the vibrant, exhilarating discoveries we make as we grow in our faith, each piece ripe and bursting with flavor, freshly harvested from our experiences. Yet, what does it mean to include the ‘old’ alongside the ‘new’? This duality may serve as a veiled reference to the Old and New Testaments—where the New Testament elegantly fulfills the promises of the Old, and the Old Testament itself nurtures the roots from which the doctrines of the New Testament emerge.

Consider Matthew 13, where the parables weave a rich tapestry of understanding. Those who grasp the meaning of these teachings are likened to a wise servant charged with the homeowner's food provisions, entrusted with the delicate task of preparation and service. This analogy underscores the importance of drawing on both new and old resources from our spiritual pantry. Just as certain foods, like robust aged cheeses and savory cured meats, develop deeper flavors and complexities over time, the love we once offered our Savior during our infancy in faith—though deemed ‘old fruit’—is still profoundly precious. Simultaneously, the love we strive to cultivate today, expressing fresh and vibrant devotion, is equally meaningful; it is a testament to our ever-growing relationship with our Savior. Together, the ‘old’ and ‘new’ fruits harmoniously intertwine, reflecting the beauty and depth of our spiritual journey.

Listen to the profound dedication of her heart as she beautifully expresses, “And beside our doors are all choice fruits, both new and old, which I have laid up for you, O my beloved.” The phrase ‘laid up’ is derived from the Hebrew word ‘tsafan,’ which means to ‘treasure up,’ evoking a sense of intentionality and love. It implies not just the act of setting aside something valuable, but rather the careful hiding away of precious treasures, as if tucking them into the safety deposit box of our hearts for safekeeping.

I wholeheartedly believe that God has lovingly laid up treasures specifically for us—glorious gifts and rewards stored in the heavenly realms, awaiting those who place their faith in Him. As articulated in Malachi 3:17, “They will belong to me,” proclaims the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “in the day when I prepare my own special property. I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him.” The King James Version eloquently refers to this “special property” as “jewels,” highlighting the extraordinary value and worth He places on us. God treasures us deeply, safeguarding us with the protective love of a devoted father who cherishes his beloved child.

Each day, God bestows upon us a multitude of bountiful blessings, carefully laid up for us to embrace. Just as the bride in the passage offers ‘precious’ fruits at the threshold of her beloved’s door, we too are called to present our abundant blessings to God. This recognition involves counting and cherishing the countless blessings we have experienced—those sweet memories of love and grace bestowed upon us by our Savior in the past, alongside the vibrant gifts we continue to enjoy in the present.

In this act of gratitude, we joyfully offer these fruits of our lives to Him time and again, for He delights in reminiscing about the beautiful journey we share—enjoying the treasures of our past experiences and the richness of our current relationship with Him. Praise be to God; He is not only a loving Savior but also a faithful guardian who celebrates the exquisite treasures laid-up within our hearts.

Stephen Barnett