Song of Solomon 6:13

Come back, come back, O Shulammite! Come back, come back, that we may gaze upon you. Why do you look at the Shulammite, as on the dance of Mahanaim?

Study Bible

Come back, come back, O Shulammite!
The repetition of "come back" emphasizes urgency and longing. The term "Shulammite" is often understood to refer to a woman from Shunem, a village in the territory of Issachar. This could connect her to Abishag the Shunammite, who cared for King David in his old age (1 Kings 1:3-4). The call for her return suggests a desire for reconciliation or reunion, possibly symbolizing the relationship between God and Israel or Christ and the Church.

Come back, come back, that we may gaze upon you.
The desire to "gaze upon" the Shulammite indicates admiration and appreciation. In a spiritual sense, this can reflect the longing of believers to behold the beauty and glory of Christ. The repeated invitation underscores the value and worth seen in the Shulammite, paralleling how the Church is cherished by Christ (Ephesians 5:25-27).

Why do you look at the Shulammite,
This rhetorical question challenges the audience to consider their motives and intentions. It suggests that the Shulammite's presence or actions are captivating and worthy of attention. In a broader sense, it can symbolize the allure of divine wisdom or the beauty of holiness that draws believers to God.

as on the dance of Mahanaim?
Mahanaim was a city east of the Jordan River, significant in biblical history as a place where Jacob encountered angels (Genesis 32:1-2) and where David fled during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:24). The "dance of Mahanaim" could refer to a celebratory or ritualistic dance, symbolizing joy and divine encounter. This imagery may suggest the joy and celebration found in the presence of God or the unity and harmony within the body of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shulammite
The female protagonist in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as a representation of the bride or beloved. Her identity is a subject of much discussion, with some seeing her as a historical figure and others as a symbolic representation of Israel or the Church.

2. Mahanaim
A place mentioned in the Old Testament, known for its significance in the account of Jacob and later as a city of refuge. The "dance of Mahanaim" is a phrase that has sparked various interpretations, possibly referring to a celebratory or ritualistic dance.

Teaching Points

The Beauty of Holiness
The repeated call to the Shulammite to "come back" reflects the admiration and desire for the beauty of holiness. As believers, we are called to reflect the beauty of Christ in our lives.

The Dance of Joy
The reference to the "dance of Mahanaim" can be seen as an invitation to participate in the joy and celebration of God's presence. Our lives should be a dance of joy, reflecting the grace and love we have received.

The Pursuit of Intimacy
Just as the beloved seeks the Shulammite, God seeks an intimate relationship with us. We are invited to return to Him and experience the depth of His love.

The Call to Return
The repeated plea to "come back" serves as a reminder of God's persistent call for us to return to Him, especially when we stray. It emphasizes His unwavering love and desire for reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the repeated call to the Shulammite to "come back" reveal about God's nature and His relationship with us?

2. How can the "dance of Mahanaim" be understood in the context of our spiritual journey and relationship with God?

3. In what ways does the Shulammite's account parallel the Church's relationship with Christ, as described in Ephesians 5?

4. How can we reflect the beauty and holiness of the Shulammite in our daily lives, and what practical steps can we take to achieve this?

5. What are some modern-day "Mahanaim" experiences where you have felt God's presence and protection, and how did these experiences impact your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 32
Mahanaim is first mentioned in the context of Jacob's encounter with angels, symbolizing divine presence and protection. This connection may suggest a deeper spiritual significance to the "dance of Mahanaim."

Psalm 45
Often seen as a royal wedding song, it parallels the themes of love and admiration found in the Song of Solomon, highlighting the beauty and dignity of the bride.

Ephesians 5
The relationship between Christ and the Church is likened to a marriage, providing a New Testament perspective on the themes of love and unity found in the Song of Solomon.