Song of Solomon Chapter 7: Meaning

The man praises every part of his beloved's beauty, and she invites him to come with her to the countryside.

Summary

This chapter begins with the man praising his beloved from her feet all the way up to her head. He uses vivid word pictures from the world around him. He compares her graceful walk to fine craftsmanship, her middle to a heap of wheat, and her stature to a tall palm tree. He says she is lovely and wonderful in every way.

He says her love is better than wine and her breath is like sweet apples. He is completely captivated by her.

Then the woman speaks. She says she belongs to her beloved, and he is drawn to her. She invites him to come away with her to the countryside. She wants to go to the villages, walk among the vineyards, and see the new blossoms in spring. She says she has saved up all kinds of good things for him, both old and new.

Historical Context

In ancient wedding celebrations, it was common to sing long songs praising the bride or groom from head to toe. This type of song was called a wasf. This chapter has one of these songs, but it goes from feet to head instead of head to feet, which makes it unique.

Vineyards and fields were central to life in ancient Israel. Inviting someone to walk through the countryside together was an invitation to share everyday life, the fields, the seasons, and the simple beauty of the land.