Song of Solomon 5:13

His cheeks are like beds of spice, towers of perfume. His lips are like lilies, dripping with flowing myrrh.

Study Bible

His cheeks
The imagery of "cheeks" in ancient Hebrew poetry often symbolizes beauty, health, and vitality. In the context of the Song of Solomon, which is a poetic and allegorical book celebrating love, the cheeks of the beloved are depicted as a source of delight and attraction. The Hebrew word for cheeks, "לחיים" (leḥayim), can also imply fullness and richness, suggesting a sense of abundance and prosperity in the relationship.

are like beds of spice
The phrase "beds of spice" evokes a sense of luxury and opulence. In the ancient Near East, spices were highly valued for their fragrance and rarity. The comparison to "beds" suggests a cultivated, intentional beauty, much like a well-tended garden. This imagery reflects the deep appreciation and admiration the speaker has for the beloved, indicating that their presence is as pleasing and enriching as a garden filled with aromatic spices.

towers of perfume
The term "towers" implies strength and majesty, while "perfume" suggests an alluring and captivating scent. In biblical times, perfumes were often stored in tall, ornate containers, symbolizing both protection and preciousness. This metaphor highlights the beloved's ability to captivate and enchant, much like a strong tower that stands out in a landscape, drawing attention and admiration.

His lips
Lips are often associated with speech and communication, and in the context of the Song of Solomon, they also symbolize intimacy and affection. The Hebrew word "שפתיו" (s'fatav) emphasizes the personal and relational aspect of the beloved's words and expressions, suggesting that they are not only beautiful but also life-giving and nourishing.

are like lilies
Lilies are frequently used in biblical literature to represent purity, beauty, and renewal. The comparison of the beloved's lips to lilies suggests a sense of grace and elegance. In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, lilies were admired for their delicate beauty and were often associated with the divine, further elevating the beloved's attributes to a near-sacred level.

dripping with flowing myrrh
Myrrh is a fragrant resin used in ancient times for anointing and embalming, symbolizing both life and death. The imagery of "dripping" suggests abundance and generosity, while "flowing" conveys a sense of continuous, unending supply. This metaphor indicates that the beloved's words and expressions are not only sweet and pleasing but also deeply enriching and enduring, much like the precious myrrh that was used in sacred rituals.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The primary subject of this verse, often interpreted as a representation of Christ in allegorical readings, or as Solomon himself in the literal sense.

2. The Shulammite
The speaker in this passage, expressing her admiration and love for her beloved.

3. Spice and Myrrh
Symbolic elements in the verse, representing beauty, value, and the richness of love.

4. Lilies
Often used in biblical poetry to symbolize purity and beauty.

5. Song of Solomon
A poetic book in the Old Testament, celebrating love and often interpreted as an allegory of God's love for His people.

Teaching Points

The Beauty of Christ
Just as the beloved is described with rich and fragrant imagery, Christ's character and love are beautiful and worthy of admiration.

Symbolism of Myrrh and Spices
Myrrh, often used in anointing and burial, symbolizes sacrifice and the depth of Christ's love for us.

Purity and Devotion
The imagery of lilies and spices calls believers to pursue purity and a fragrant life of devotion to God.

The Intimacy of Relationship
The personal and intimate language encourages believers to cultivate a deep, personal relationship with Christ.

Reflecting Christ's Beauty
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His beauty and love in our interactions with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of spices and myrrh in Song of Solomon 5:13 enhance our understanding of the beloved's character?

2. In what ways can the description of the beloved's lips as lilies inspire us to speak words of purity and grace?

3. How does the intimate language of Song of Solomon challenge us to deepen our relationship with Christ?

4. What parallels can we draw between the beloved in Song of Solomon and the depiction of Christ in other scriptures?

5. How can we apply the concept of reflecting Christ's beauty in our daily lives and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 45
This royal wedding psalm shares similar themes of beauty and majesty, often seen as a messianic prophecy.

Ephesians 5:25-27
The relationship between Christ and the Church is likened to a marriage, emphasizing love and purity.

John 12:3
The anointing of Jesus with costly perfume, connecting to the imagery of myrrh and the value of love and devotion.