Song of Solomon 3:5

O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you by the gazelles and does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right.

Study Bible

O daughters of Jerusalem
This phrase addresses the women of Jerusalem, symbolizing a collective audience or community. In the context of ancient Israel, Jerusalem was the heart of religious and cultural life. The "daughters" could represent the young women of the city, possibly serving as a metaphor for purity and innocence. The Hebrew word for "daughters" (בָּנוֹת, banot) often signifies a close-knit community, suggesting a shared understanding or experience among these women.

I adjure you
The term "adjure" (שָׁבַע, shava) is a strong plea or command, often invoking a solemn oath. In biblical times, oaths were serious commitments, binding the speaker and the listener to a promise before God. This phrase indicates the gravity and earnestness of the speaker's request, emphasizing the importance of the message that follows.

by the gazelles and the does of the field
Gazelles and does are symbols of beauty, grace, and swiftness in the ancient Near Eastern context. These animals are often associated with natural beauty and the untamed wilderness. The invocation of these creatures suggests a connection to the natural order and the divine creation, highlighting the purity and sanctity of the love being discussed. The imagery evokes a sense of harmony and balance in creation, reflecting the ideal state of love.

Do not arouse or awaken love
This phrase serves as a cautionary directive. The Hebrew words for "arouse" (עוֹרֵר, orer) and "awaken" (עוּר, ur) imply stirring or prematurely bringing something to life. In the context of love, this suggests that love should not be forced or rushed. The wisdom here is to allow love to develop naturally and in its own time, respecting its sacred and powerful nature.

until the time is right
Timing is crucial in the biblical understanding of love. The phrase underscores the importance of patience and divine timing. The Hebrew concept of "time" (עֵת, et) often refers to an appointed or appropriate moment. This reflects a trust in God's perfect timing and plan for relationships. The message is one of waiting for the right moment, when love can flourish in its fullness and beauty, according to God's design.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daughters of Jerusalem
These are likely young women of the city, representing a collective audience or witnesses to the love account unfolding in the Song of Solomon. They serve as a chorus or audience to the intimate exchanges between the lovers.

2. Gazelles and Does of the Field
These animals are often associated with beauty, grace, and gentleness. In the context of the Song of Solomon, they symbolize the natural and unforced nature of love.

3. The Speaker
The speaker in this verse is traditionally understood to be the bride, who is expressing a cautionary note about the timing and nature of love.

4. The Theme of Love
The central event or theme here is the expression of love and the caution against prematurely forcing or awakening it.

5. The Setting of the Song
The Song of Solomon is set in a pastoral and idyllic landscape, which serves as a backdrop for the romantic and poetic exchanges between the lovers.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Timing in Love
Love should not be rushed or forced. It is important to wait for the right time, as premature actions can lead to complications and heartache.

The Naturalness of Love
Just as gazelles and does move gracefully and naturally, love should develop in a natural and unforced manner. This reflects the beauty and purity of genuine affection.

Guarding the Heart
In relationships, it is crucial to guard one's heart and emotions, ensuring that love is awakened at the appropriate time and in the right context.

The Role of Community
The daughters of Jerusalem represent a community that observes and sometimes advises. In our lives, having a community that provides wisdom and accountability in relationships is valuable.

Patience and Trust in God's Timing
Trusting in God's timing for love and relationships is essential. Patience allows for the development of a deeper, more meaningful connection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of gazelles and does enhance our understanding of the nature of love in this verse?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of "not arousing or awakening love until the time is right" in modern relationships?

3. How does the concept of waiting for the right time in love relate to other areas of life where timing is crucial?

4. What role does community play in helping us navigate relationships, as seen with the daughters of Jerusalem?

5. How can we cultivate patience and trust in God's timing for our personal relationships, and what scriptures support this practice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 13
This chapter describes the nature of love, emphasizing patience and timing, which aligns with the caution in Song of Solomon 3:5 about not rushing love.

Ecclesiastes 3:1
This verse speaks to the idea that there is a time for everything, including love, reinforcing the message of waiting for the right time.

Proverbs 4:23
This verse advises guarding one's heart, which connects to the idea of not prematurely awakening love.