Song of Solomon 2:16

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

Study Bible

My beloved is mine and I am his;
This phrase reflects the mutual possession and deep intimacy between the lovers, symbolizing the covenant relationship between God and His people. In the context of marriage, it emphasizes the exclusivity and commitment inherent in the marital bond. This mirrors the covenantal language found in other parts of Scripture, such as Hosea 2:19-20, where God speaks of betrothing His people to Himself in faithfulness. Theologically, this can also be seen as a type of Christ and the Church, as described in Ephesians 5:25-32, where the relationship between husband and wife is likened to that of Christ and His bride, the Church. The mutual belonging signifies a profound unity and love that is both personal and communal.

he pastures his flock among the lilies.
This imagery draws from the pastoral and agrarian context of ancient Israel, where shepherding was a common occupation. The mention of "lilies" suggests a setting of beauty and tranquility, indicating a place of provision and care. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for Christ as the Good Shepherd, who tends to His flock with love and gentleness, as seen in John 10:11-15. The lilies may also symbolize purity and renewal, reflecting the sanctifying work of Christ in the lives of believers. Additionally, the pastoral imagery connects to Psalm 23, where the Lord is depicted as a shepherd who leads His people to green pastures and still waters, providing for their needs and ensuring their well-being.

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.