Song of Solomon 1:17

The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are fragrant firs.

Study Bible

The beams of our house are cedars;
Cedars were highly valued in ancient Israel for their durability, resistance to decay, and pleasant aroma. The use of cedar wood in construction is a symbol of strength and permanence. In biblical times, cedar was often imported from Lebanon, as it was considered the finest wood available. This phrase may evoke the grandeur of Solomon's Temple, which was built using cedar wood (1 Kings 6:9-10). The mention of "our house" suggests a shared dwelling, symbolizing unity and stability in the relationship. The cedar beams can also be seen as a metaphor for the strength and enduring nature of love, reflecting the divine love that is unchanging and eternal.

our rafters are fragrant firs.
Firs, like cedars, were also used in construction and were known for their pleasant scent. The fragrance of the firs adds an element of beauty and delight to the home, suggesting that the relationship is not only strong but also filled with joy and pleasure. In the context of the Song of Solomon, which celebrates romantic love, the fragrant firs can symbolize the refreshing and life-giving aspects of love. The use of natural imagery highlights the connection between creation and the Creator, pointing to the beauty and order God has established in relationships. The mention of "fragrant" may also allude to the pleasing aroma of a life lived in accordance with God's will, as seen in other scriptures where fragrance is associated with worship and sacrifice (2 Corinthians 2:15).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of the Song of Solomon, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom and wealth. The book is often seen as an allegory of God's love for His people.

2. The Shulammite
The female protagonist in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as representing the bride or the people of God in allegorical readings.

3. Cedar and Cypress
These are types of wood mentioned in the verse. Cedar is known for its durability and pleasant aroma, often used in temple construction, symbolizing strength and permanence. Cypress is also a durable wood, symbolizing beauty and resilience.

4. The House
Represents the dwelling place or the relationship between the lovers, often seen as a metaphor for the relationship between God and His people.

5. The Song of Solomon
A poetic book in the Old Testament that explores themes of love and desire, often interpreted allegorically in conservative Christian traditions as the love between Christ and the Church.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Strength and Permanence
The use of cedar and cypress in the construction of the house symbolizes a relationship built on strength and permanence. In our spiritual lives, we should seek to build our relationship with God on a foundation that is enduring and resilient.

Beauty in Relationships
The mention of cypress, known for its beauty, reminds us that our relationships, especially our relationship with God, should be marked by beauty and care. We should strive to cultivate beauty in our spiritual lives through acts of love and devotion.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The imagery of a house with strong beams and rafters can be seen as a metaphor for God's desire to dwell among His people. We are called to create a space in our hearts and lives where God can reside, marked by holiness and dedication.

Allegory of Divine Love
The Song of Solomon, while a celebration of human love, also serves as an allegory for the divine love between Christ and the Church. This verse invites us to reflect on the depth and strength of God's love for us.

Building a Spiritual Home
Just as the house in the verse is constructed with care and quality materials, we are encouraged to build our spiritual lives with intentionality, using the "materials" of prayer, scripture, and community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of cedar and cypress in Song of Solomon 1:17 enhance your understanding of the strength and beauty of a godly relationship?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of building a strong and beautiful "house" in our personal relationship with God?

3. How does the use of cedar in the construction of Solomon's temple (1 Kings 6:9-10) relate to the themes of strength and permanence in our spiritual lives?

4. Reflect on the allegorical interpretation of the Song of Solomon as a depiction of Christ's love for the Church. How does this perspective influence your understanding of divine love?

5. Considering Psalm 92:12, how can we cultivate the qualities of a "cedar" in our spiritual journey, ensuring growth and stability in our faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 6:9-10
Describes the construction of Solomon's temple using cedar, highlighting the significance of cedar as a symbol of strength and divine presence.

Ephesians 5:25-27
Discusses the relationship between Christ and the Church, paralleling the intimate and pure love depicted in the Song of Solomon.

Psalm 92:12
Compares the righteous to a cedar, emphasizing growth and stability, which can be related to the enduring nature of the love described in Song of Solomon.