Song of Solomon 2:16

My beloved is mine and I am his; he pastures his flock among the lilies.

Study Bible

My beloved
The term "beloved" in Hebrew is "דּוֹדִי" (dodi), which conveys a deep, intimate affection. In the context of the Song of Solomon, it represents the profound love between the bride and her bridegroom. From a conservative Christian perspective, this can also symbolize the relationship between Christ and the Church, where Christ is the beloved bridegroom who cherishes His bride with an everlasting love.

is mine
This phrase signifies possession and mutual belonging. In Hebrew, the concept of belonging is often tied to covenant relationships. Theologically, this reflects the covenantal bond between God and His people, where believers are assured of their identity in Christ. It emphasizes the security and assurance found in a relationship with God, where believers can confidently claim, "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine."

and I am his
This reciprocal statement highlights mutual commitment and devotion. In the Hebrew context, such expressions of mutual belonging were common in marriage covenants, symbolizing unity and exclusivity. For Christians, this reflects the believer's response to Christ's love, a willing surrender and dedication to Him, acknowledging His lordship and love.

he pastures his flock
The imagery of pasturing or shepherding is rich in biblical symbolism. The Hebrew word for "pastures" is "רֹעֶה" (ro'eh), which means to tend or shepherd. This evokes the image of Christ as the Good Shepherd, who cares for and leads His flock with tenderness and provision. It underscores the nurturing and guiding role of Christ in the life of believers, ensuring their spiritual nourishment and safety.

among the lilies
Lilies in the ancient Near Eastern context were symbols of beauty and purity. The Hebrew word "שׁוֹשַׁנִּים" (shoshanim) refers to these delicate flowers, often associated with love and romance. In a spiritual sense, this can represent the purity and beauty of the Church, the bride of Christ, flourishing under His care. It also suggests a setting of peace and tranquility, where the believer finds rest and delight in the presence of the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
In the context of the Song of Solomon, the beloved is often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of a lover. In a broader spiritual sense, it can symbolize Christ as the bridegroom of the Church.

2. The Shulammite
The speaker in this verse, traditionally understood to be the Shulammite woman, who represents the bride or the Church in allegorical interpretations.

3. Lilies
A symbol of beauty and purity, often used in biblical poetry to describe the beloved's environment or the nature of their love.

4. The Vineyard
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the vineyard is a recurring motif in the Song of Solomon, symbolizing a place of love and intimacy.

5. The Shepherd
The imagery of grazing suggests pastoral scenes, which can symbolize care, provision, and guidance, often associated with Christ as the Good Shepherd.

Teaching Points

Mutual Belonging in Relationships
The verse highlights the importance of mutual love and commitment in relationships, reflecting the ideal of selfless love in marriage.

Christ and the Church
This verse can be seen as an allegory for the relationship between Christ and the Church, emphasizing the deep, personal connection believers have with Christ.

Purity and Beauty in Love
The imagery of lilies suggests that love should be pure and beautiful, encouraging believers to cultivate such qualities in their relationships.

Security in Christ
Just as the beloved finds security in mutual belonging, believers can find assurance in their relationship with Christ, knowing they are His and He is theirs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "grazing among the lilies" enhance our understanding of the nature of love described in this verse?

2. In what ways can the mutual belonging expressed in Song of Solomon 2:16 be applied to our relationship with Christ?

3. How does the concept of mutual possession in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of marriage and relationships?

4. What other biblical passages reinforce the idea of Christ as the Good Shepherd, and how do they deepen our understanding of this verse?

5. How can we cultivate the purity and beauty symbolized by lilies in our personal relationships and spiritual walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 10:14-15
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, which connects to the imagery of grazing among the lilies, symbolizing care and intimate knowledge of His flock.

Ephesians 5:25-27
This passage speaks of Christ's love for the Church, paralleling the mutual belonging and love expressed in Song of Solomon 2:16.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
The concept of belonging to one another is echoed in the idea that believers are not their own but belong to God, emphasizing mutual possession and devotion.