Understanding Song of Solomon 7:3

Verse: "Thy two breasts are like two young rows that are twins, which feed among the lilies." (Song of Solomon 7:3)

Summary of Meaning

The Song of Solomon is a poetic book celebrating love, beauty, and desire. In chapter 7, the imagery employed illustrates the physical attraction and intimate relationship between the beloved and the lover. The metaphor of "two breasts" likened to "two young rows" signifies a natural, innocent beauty and nourishment. This verse highlights both the physical and emotional aspects of love, conveying a deep sense of admiration and affection.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry notes that the poet uses pastoral imagery to express the allure of the beloved. The comparison to "young rows" conveys a sense of innocence and vitality, tying the physical aspects of love to a deeper spiritual appreciation.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the beauty and the tender nature of this comparison. He highlights that such imagery celebrates the purity and sanctity of love, underscoring a theme prevalent in the Song of Solomon.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke points out the significance of feeding among "the lilies," which symbolizes both beauty and the idea of love flourishing in a peaceful and idyllic setting. The reference to the breasts emphasizes the nurturing aspects of love—both physical nourishment and emotional support.

Cross-References to Song of Solomon 7:3

• Proverbs 5:19: "Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times." - This verse enhances the theme of marital intimacy and delight in one's spouse.
• Songs of Solomon 4:5: "Thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the lilies." - This verse echoes the imagery of Song of Solomon 7:3, reinforcing the beauty of love in a lyrical fashion.
• Isaiah 66:11: "That ye may suck, and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations; that ye may milk out, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory." - This parallels the nurturing aspect of love found in Song of Solomon.
• 1 Corinthians 7:3-5: "Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband." - This scripture discusses the importance of fulfilling each other's needs within the context of marital love.
• Ephesians 5:28-29: "So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself." - This encourages the nurturing aspect of romantic relationships, mirroring the verses' themes of beauty and care.
• Song of Solomon 2:16: "My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies." - This verse also emphasizes intimacy and connection in love, showing the reciprocal nature of relationships.
• Songs of Solomon 4:13-14: "Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard." - This passage highlights the delightful and rich imagery found throughout the book.

Exploring Connections Between Bible Verses

Understanding Song of Solomon 7:3 allows for a rich exploration of thematic elements that connect across scripture. The celebration of love and beauty can be found in various parts of the Bible:

• Many verses in Song of Solomon illustrate an inter-biblical dialogue on love, intimacy, and longing.
• In Proverbs, themes of marital love are underscored with similar imagery, as seen in the references to “the loving hind” and “the pleasant roe.”
• Connections with the New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul, reveal deeper spiritual implications of love and marriage.
• The rich metaphorical language used in Song of Solomon illustrates the beauty of God's design for love, which is echoed in both Testaments.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Engaging deeply with passages like Song of Solomon 7:3 can be enriched through the use of Bible cross-reference systems. Utilizing tools such as:

• Bible Concordance: A helpful resource for finding related verses.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Identifies thematic links between scriptures.
• Bible Reference Resources: Aid in understanding connections in biblical text.
• Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials: Useful for studies and sermons focused on specific themes.

Conclusion

Song of Solomon 7:3 emphasizes the beauty and depth of romantic love while encouraging a broader understanding of intimate human relationships as gifts from God. As you explore this verse, consider how it connects with other scriptures, deepening both your appreciation and understanding of biblical relationships.

For those interested in conducting a comparative Bible verse analysis or exploring the thematic Bible verse connections, engaging with the entire book of Song of Solomon along with supportive verses will yield a richer perspective on love as portrayed in the Bible.