Song of Solomon 8:8

We have a little sister, and her breasts are not yet grown. What shall we do for our sister on the day she is spoken for?

Study Bible

We have a little sister
This phrase introduces a familial relationship, indicating a sense of responsibility and care. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, family bonds were strong, and siblings often played significant roles in each other's lives. The mention of a "little sister" suggests youth and innocence, highlighting the protective nature of the family. This can be seen as a metaphor for the church or believers who are young in faith, needing guidance and protection.

and her breasts are not yet grown.
This phrase symbolizes immaturity and the process of coming of age. In the historical context, physical maturity was often linked to readiness for marriage. The imagery here suggests that the sister is not yet ready for the responsibilities and commitments of adult life. Spiritually, this can be seen as a representation of believers who are still growing in their faith and understanding, not yet ready for deeper spiritual responsibilities.

What shall we do for our sister
This question reflects a proactive concern for the sister's future. It implies a desire to prepare and protect her, ensuring she is ready for the next stage of life. In biblical terms, this can be seen as the responsibility of the church to nurture and prepare young believers for spiritual maturity. It echoes the biblical principle of discipleship and mentorship found in passages like Titus 2:4-5, where older women are encouraged to teach and guide younger women.

on the day she is spoken for?
This phrase refers to the time when the sister will be betrothed or married. In ancient Israel, marriage was a significant event, often arranged by families, and marked the transition to adulthood. The "day she is spoken for" signifies a future commitment and the need for readiness. Prophetically, this can be seen as a type of the church being prepared as the bride of Christ, as described in Revelation 19:7-8, where the church is made ready for the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Shulammite Woman
The central female figure in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as a bride or beloved. Her voice and experiences are central to the account.

2. The Brothers
In Song of Solomon 8:8, the brothers of the Shulammite woman speak. They express concern for their sister's future and her readiness for marriage.

3. The Little Sister
The subject of the brothers' concern in this verse. She is described as having "no breasts," symbolizing her youth and immaturity.

Teaching Points

Maturity and Readiness
The verse highlights the importance of maturity before entering into significant life commitments, such as marriage. It encourages individuals to assess their readiness and growth in various aspects of life.

Family Responsibility
The brothers' concern for their sister underscores the role of family in guiding and protecting younger members. It suggests that family should be involved in nurturing and preparing individuals for future responsibilities.

Spiritual Growth
Just as the little sister is not yet ready for marriage, believers are called to grow spiritually before taking on new roles or challenges. This growth involves developing character and understanding God's will.

Community Support
The involvement of the brothers reflects the importance of community in personal development. The church community can play a similar role in supporting and guiding individuals in their spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concern of the brothers for their sister's readiness reflect the biblical principle of preparation before marriage?

2. In what ways can families today support the spiritual and personal growth of their younger members, as seen in Song of Solomon 8:8?

3. How can the church community act as a supportive family for individuals who are preparing for significant life changes?

4. What are some practical steps individuals can take to ensure they are spiritually mature and ready for the commitments they are considering?

5. How do the themes of maturity and readiness in Song of Solomon 8:8 connect with the teachings on love and marriage found in Ephesians 5?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 31
The concern for the sister's future and readiness can be connected to the virtues of a godly woman described in Proverbs 31, emphasizing preparation and maturity.

1 Corinthians 13
The theme of love and readiness for a committed relationship can be related to the qualities of love described in 1 Corinthians 13, focusing on patience and growth.

Ephesians 5
The discussion of readiness for marriage can be linked to the teachings on marriage in Ephesians 5, which highlight the roles and responsibilities within a Christian marriage.