Song of Solomon 6:6

Your teeth are like a flock of sheep coming up from the washing; each has its twin, and not one of them is lost.

Study Bible

Your teeth are like a flock of sheep coming up from the washing;
This phrase uses pastoral imagery common in ancient Near Eastern poetry. The comparison of teeth to a flock of sheep suggests purity and cleanliness, as sheep coming up from the washing would be white and spotless. This imagery reflects the bride's beauty and purity, emphasizing her attractiveness and the care she takes in her appearance. In biblical times, sheep were a valuable asset, symbolizing wealth and prosperity, which may also imply the bride's value and worth. The washing process can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual cleansing, aligning with themes of purification found in passages like Psalm 51:7, where David asks to be washed whiter than snow.

each has its twin,
The mention of each tooth having its twin suggests symmetry and completeness, indicating that the bride's beauty is perfect and unmarred. In the context of ancient Israel, symmetry was often associated with divine order and perfection, reflecting God's creation as seen in Genesis 1. This imagery can also be connected to the idea of unity and harmony within the body of Christ, as Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 12, where each member has its place and function, contributing to the whole.

and not one of them is lost.
This phrase highlights the idea of preservation and care. In a historical context, dental health was a significant concern, and having all teeth intact would be a sign of good health and vitality. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for God's preservation of His people, as seen in John 6:39, where Jesus speaks of losing none of those given to Him by the Father. It underscores the theme of divine protection and the completeness found in a relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse is the bridegroom, often interpreted as Solomon, who is expressing admiration for his bride.

2. The Bride
The bride is the recipient of the bridegroom's praise, symbolizing purity and beauty.

3. Sheep
The imagery of sheep is used to convey purity and order, as they are freshly washed and perfectly paired.

4. The Washing
This refers to the cleansing process, symbolizing purity and renewal.

5. Twins
The mention of twins emphasizes symmetry and completeness, suggesting perfection in creation.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Purity
The imagery of washed sheep highlights the importance of spiritual purity and renewal in our lives.

Value of Completeness
Just as the bride's teeth are perfectly paired, we should strive for completeness and integrity in our spiritual walk.

Appreciation of Beauty
The bridegroom's admiration for the bride teaches us to appreciate the beauty and gifts God has given us and others.

Spiritual Cleansing
The washing of the sheep symbolizes the cleansing power of God's forgiveness and grace in our lives.

Unity and Harmony
The perfect pairing of the teeth reflects the unity and harmony that should exist within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of washed sheep in Song of Solomon 6:6 relate to the concept of spiritual cleansing in your life?

2. In what ways can we strive for completeness and integrity in our daily walk with God, as symbolized by the perfect pairing of the bride's teeth?

3. How can we cultivate an appreciation for the beauty and gifts that God has given us and others, as demonstrated by the bridegroom's admiration for the bride?

4. What steps can we take to experience the spiritual cleansing and renewal that God offers, as symbolized by the washing of the sheep?

5. How can we promote unity and harmony within our church community, reflecting the perfect pairing and order described in Song of Solomon 6:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51:7
This verse speaks of being cleansed and washed whiter than snow, connecting to the imagery of washed sheep in Song of Solomon 6:6.

Ephesians 5:25-27
This passage discusses Christ's love for the church and His desire to present it as pure and spotless, paralleling the purity and beauty described in Song of Solomon.

1 Peter 3:3-4
This scripture emphasizes inner beauty and purity, which aligns with the symbolic meaning of the bride's beauty in Song of Solomon.