Understanding Song of Solomon 6:9

The verse from the Song of Solomon 6:9 reads:

"My dove, my perfect one, is only one, the only one of her mother, the chosen of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea, the queens and the concubines, and they praised her."

Summary of Meaning

This verse illustrates the unique and cherished status of the beloved within the context of love poetry. The metaphorical use of a "dove" signifies purity and tenderness, while the emphasis on her being 'the only one' highlights her unparalleled beauty and worth, making her the focus of admiration from others.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry: Henry notes that the beloved's uniqueness is celebrated, showing that true love honors exclusivity. He also illustrates the idea that the beloved is an object of admiration, not only for the lover but also for others, suggesting that the beloved's virtue and beauty are acknowledged widely.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes that the “dove” represents innocence and simplicity, indicating the purity of love. He argues that this verse represents the affection and esteem the beloved commands, evoking responses from the surrounding characters, such as queens and concubines, who all praise her.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke points out the importance of context in interpreting this verse, suggesting that the reverence shown to the beloved reflects the culture of admiration for beauty and virtue in interpersonal relationships during this time. He argues for a deeper understanding of relationships through the lens of singularity and devotion.

Bible Cross-References

This verse can be cross-referenced with several other Bible verses that resonate with its themes:

• Song of Solomon 4:7 - "Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee."
• Isaiah 62:5 - "For as a young man marrieth a virgin, so shall thy sons marry thee: and as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee."
• Matthew 13:44 - "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field."
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up..."
• Philippians 4:8 - "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure..."
• Psalm 45:11 - "So shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: for he is thy Lord; and worship thou him."
• Song of Solomon 4:9 - "Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse; thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes..."

Connections to Other Scriptures

The verse illustrates key connections and themes that echo throughout the Bible:

• Thematic Connections: The theme of love, beauty, and admiration runs throughout scriptures, connecting with the ideals of marital love and faithfulness.
• Inter-Biblical Dialogue: This verse initiates a dialogue about the nature of divine love and the relationship between Christ and the Church, echoed in passages like Ephesians 5:25.
• Scriptural Cross-Referencing: The celebration of a chosen beloved reminds one of God's chosen people throughout the Old Testament, such as in Deuteronomy 7:6.
• Comparative Analysis: Comparing Song of Solomon with other scripture can reveal deeper spiritual meanings, such as understanding love through the lens of sacrificial love, as illustrated in Romans 5:8.

Conclusion

Song of Solomon 6:9 emphasizes the beauty and uniqueness of love, which invites readers to explore deeper spiritual connections and reflections found through biblical cross-referencing. The insights provided by public domain commentary aid in comprehension and appreciation of this profound love poetry.