Song of Solomon 2:13

The fig tree ripens its figs; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come away, my darling; come away with me, my beautiful one."

Study Bible

The fig tree ripens its figs;
In ancient Israel, the fig tree was a common and significant plant, often symbolizing prosperity and peace. The ripening of figs indicates the arrival of spring, a time of renewal and new beginnings. This imagery is used to convey a sense of readiness and anticipation. In the broader biblical context, the fig tree is sometimes associated with Israel itself (Hosea 9:10, Jeremiah 24:1-10), symbolizing the nation's spiritual state. The ripening figs suggest a time of spiritual awakening and fruitfulness.

the blossoming vines spread their fragrance.
Vines and vineyards are frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing abundance and joy. The fragrance of blossoming vines evokes a sense of beauty and delight, suggesting a time of celebration and love. This imagery is reminiscent of the blessings and abundance promised to God's people (Deuteronomy 8:7-8). The spreading fragrance can also be seen as a metaphor for the influence and reach of God's love and grace, as well as the spreading of the Gospel (2 Corinthians 2:14-15).

Arise, come away, my darling;
This phrase is an invitation to action and movement, suggesting a call to leave behind the old and embrace the new. It reflects the intimate and personal relationship between the speaker and the beloved, often interpreted as a representation of Christ's call to His Church or to individual believers. The call to "arise" is echoed in other scriptures where God calls His people to rise and follow Him (Isaiah 60:1, Ephesians 5:14).

come away with me, my beautiful one.”
The repetition of the invitation emphasizes the urgency and importance of the call. The term "beautiful one" highlights the value and worth of the beloved, reflecting God's view of His people as precious and cherished. This mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church, where believers are seen as the bride of Christ, adorned and made beautiful through His love and sacrifice (Ephesians 5:25-27, Revelation 19:7-8). The call to "come away" suggests a journey or pilgrimage, a theme common in the Christian life as believers are called to follow Christ and leave behind worldly attachments (Hebrews 11:13-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse, often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of Christ, calling to his beloved.

2. The Shulammite
The beloved being addressed, representing the bride or the church in a spiritual allegory.

3. Fig Tree
A symbol of prosperity and blessing, often used in the Bible to represent Israel or spiritual fruitfulness.

4. Vines
Symbolic of growth and abundance, often associated with joy and celebration in biblical literature.

5. Springtime Imagery
Represents renewal, new beginnings, and the awakening of love.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Fruitfulness
Just as the fig tree ripens its figs, believers are called to bear spiritual fruit in their lives, reflecting the character and love of Christ.

Invitation to Intimacy
The call to "arise, come away" is an invitation to deeper intimacy with Christ, encouraging believers to prioritize their relationship with Him above all else.

Season of Renewal
The imagery of springtime signifies a season of renewal and new beginnings, reminding believers of the continual renewal available through the Holy Spirit.

Recognizing God's Timing
Understanding the signs of the times, as illustrated by the fig tree, encourages believers to be spiritually alert and responsive to God's timing in their lives.

Beauty in God's Creation
The beauty of the blossoming vines and the beloved reflects the beauty God sees in His creation and His people, encouraging believers to see themselves as God sees them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the fig tree and vines in Song of Solomon 2:13 relate to the concept of spiritual fruitfulness in your life?

2. In what ways can you respond to Christ's invitation to "come away" and deepen your relationship with Him?

3. How can the theme of renewal in this verse inspire you to seek new beginnings in your spiritual journey?

4. What are some practical ways to remain spiritually alert and recognize God's timing in your life, as suggested by the fig tree imagery?

5. How can understanding your identity as God's beloved impact your daily walk and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28
The call to "be fruitful and multiply" connects to the imagery of ripening figs and blossoming vines, symbolizing fruitfulness and growth.

John 15:5
Jesus speaks of being the vine and believers as the branches, emphasizing the importance of abiding in Him for spiritual fruitfulness.

Isaiah 5:1-7
The vineyard as a metaphor for Israel, highlighting themes of care, expectation, and the consequences of unfruitfulness.

Revelation 19:7-9
The marriage of the Lamb, where the church is called to come away with Christ, paralleling the invitation in Song of Solomon.

Matthew 24:32-33
The fig tree as a sign of recognizing the times, connecting to spiritual awareness and readiness.