Song of Solomon 4:6

Before the day breaks and the shadows flee, I will make my way to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense.

Study Bible

Before the day breaks and the shadows flee
This phrase evokes the imagery of early morning, a time of transition from darkness to light. In biblical symbolism, darkness often represents ignorance or sin, while light signifies knowledge, purity, and divine presence. The transition from night to day can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual awakening or the coming of Christ, who is referred to as the "light of the world" (John 8:12). The mention of shadows fleeing suggests the dispelling of fear or uncertainty, aligning with the hope and renewal found in Christ's presence.

I will make my way to the mountain of myrrh
Myrrh is a fragrant resin used in ancient times for anointing, embalming, and as a perfume. It holds significant biblical symbolism, often associated with suffering and sacrifice. Myrrh was one of the gifts brought by the Magi to Jesus (Matthew 2:11), symbolizing His future suffering and death. The "mountain of myrrh" could represent a place of devotion and sacrifice, pointing to the sacrificial love of Christ. Mountains in Scripture often symbolize closeness to God, as seen in Moses receiving the Law on Mount Sinai (Exodus 19).

and to the hill of frankincense
Frankincense, like myrrh, is a valuable resin used in incense and offerings, symbolizing prayer and worship. It was a key component in the incense burned in the Tabernacle and Temple (Exodus 30:34-38), representing the prayers of the faithful rising to God. The "hill of frankincense" suggests a place of worship and divine encounter. Hills and mountains are frequently depicted as places where God reveals Himself, such as Mount Zion, the spiritual center of Israel. This phrase can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is our intercessor and mediator, offering Himself as a fragrant offering to God (Ephesians 5:2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse, often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of Christ, expressing love and admiration.

2. The Shulammite
The recipient of the speaker's affection, symbolizing the bride or the church.

3. Mountain of Myrrh
A metaphorical place representing beauty, sacrifice, and love. Myrrh was used in anointing and embalming, symbolizing purity and dedication.

4. Hill of Frankincense
Another metaphorical place, frankincense was used in worship and signifies prayer, devotion, and the presence of God.

5. Daybreak and Shadows
Symbolic of the transition from night to day, representing hope, renewal, and the dispelling of fear or uncertainty.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Myrrh and Frankincense
Myrrh and frankincense are not just aromatic substances but carry deep spiritual meanings. Myrrh represents sacrifice and suffering, while frankincense symbolizes prayer and worship. As believers, we are called to live lives of sacrificial love and constant prayer.

Hope in Transition
The imagery of daybreak and shadows fleeing reminds us that God brings hope and renewal. In times of darkness or uncertainty, we can trust that God will bring clarity and light.

Intimacy with God
The journey to the mountain of myrrh and hill of frankincense can be seen as a pursuit of deeper intimacy with God. Just as the beloved seeks the presence of the Shulammite, we are invited to seek God's presence through worship and prayer.

Christ's Love for the Church
This verse can be seen as a reflection of Christ's enduring love for His church. Just as the beloved is committed to the Shulammite, Christ is committed to His bride, the church, until the end of time.

Living as Fragrance of Christ
As believers, we are called to be the fragrance of Christ in the world. Our lives should reflect His love, sacrifice, and devotion, drawing others to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "daybreak and shadows fleeing" provide comfort in your current life situation?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the symbolism of myrrh and frankincense into your daily walk with God?

3. How does understanding Christ's love for the church as depicted in Song of Solomon 4:6 impact your view of your relationship with Him?

4. What practical steps can you take to be the "fragrance of Christ" in your community?

5. How do the themes of sacrifice and worship in this verse connect to other parts of Scripture, and how can they be applied in your life today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 8:22
The promise of day and night cycles reflects God's faithfulness and the certainty of His promises.

Psalm 23:4
The imagery of shadows fleeing connects to God's guidance and protection through dark times.

Matthew 2:11
The gifts of myrrh and frankincense brought to Jesus by the Magi highlight their significance in worship and prophecy.

Revelation 5:8
The use of incense in worship before God, symbolizing the prayers of the saints, connects to the hill of frankincense.

2 Corinthians 2:15
Believers as the fragrance of Christ, relating to the symbolism of myrrh and frankincense in the life of a Christian.