Overview

Song of Solomon 7 is a continuation of the poetic dialogue between the bride and bridegroom, emphasizing admiration, longing, and intimacy in their relationship. The chapter opens with the bridegroom praising the beauty of his bride, describing her from her feet to her head. The descriptions use vivid imagery, drawing comparisons from nature and the finest things of the ancient world to express his deep admiration. This section reflects the delight, passion, and exclusivity that should characterize marital love.

As the chapter progresses, the bride responds with a renewed invitation to her beloved, expressing her desire for intimacy and closeness. The language of vineyards, fruits, and fragrances represents the richness and fulfillment found in love. The couple’s love is not only passionate but also committed and secure.

Theologically, Song of Solomon 7 reinforces the biblical vision of marriage as a relationship of joy, admiration, and mutual devotion. It reflects God’s design for love within the covenant of marriage, where desire and delight are expressed freely within God-ordained boundaries. The celebration of love in this chapter also points to the deeper spiritual reality of Christ’s love for His Church. Just as the bride and bridegroom take pleasure in one another, so does Christ take delight in His people. The longing for closeness and communion mirrors the believer’s desire to experience deeper intimacy with the Lord. The chapter ultimately teaches that love is not only an emotion but a commitment that flourishes through honor, pursuit, and faithfulness.

Historical and Literary Context

Song of Solomon is written in the style of ancient Hebrew love poetry, rich in metaphor and imagery. The descriptions of beauty in this chapter follow a common literary structure in the ancient Near East, where lovers would praise each other’s physical attributes in poetic form. This type of poetry was not merely about physical attraction but was a way of expressing deep appreciation and admiration. The ascending order of the bridegroom’s praise, starting from the feet and moving upward, emphasizes the wholeness of his affection for his bride.

In the cultural setting of ancient Israel, marriage was highly esteemed as a covenantal relationship, reflecting God’s design for love and companionship. Unlike modern Western concepts of love that often focus on personal fulfillment, biblical love emphasizes mutual honor, commitment, and selfless devotion. The images of gardens, vineyards, and fruits in this chapter symbolize fertility, abundance, and the joy of union. These themes were deeply meaningful in an agricultural society, where fruitfulness represented blessing and prosperity.

The chapter also echoes the themes found throughout Scripture where marriage is used as a metaphor for God’s relationship with His people. In Isaiah 62:5, God rejoices over His people as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride. The New Testament reinforces this imagery in Ephesians 5:25-32, where Paul describes Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church using the example of a husband’s love for his wife. The beauty, admiration, and passion seen in Song of Solomon 7 ultimately serve as a reflection of divine love, both in the context of human marriage and in the spiritual relationship between Christ and the believer.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

The first major theme in this chapter is the beauty and value of love within marriage. The bridegroom’s detailed praise of his bride demonstrates the biblical principle that love should be expressed, nurtured, and celebrated. The admiration he has for her is not superficial but deep and genuine. This affirms the importance of speaking words of affirmation and encouragement in marriage, strengthening the bond between husband and wife. Proverbs 18:21 teaches that the power of life and death is in the tongue, emphasizing that words shape and sustain relationships.

Another key theme is the exclusivity and commitment of love. The descriptions in this chapter are not about a general appreciation for beauty but about a devoted love between one man and one woman. This reinforces the biblical teaching that marriage is a sacred covenant, where love is faithful and undivided. In a world that often devalues commitment, Song of Solomon 7 upholds the truth that love flourishes in the security of faithfulness. Hebrews 13:4 declares that marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, affirming the exclusivity of marital intimacy.

A crucial doctrinal point in this chapter is the pursuit of intimacy in love. The bride does not passively wait but actively seeks closeness with her beloved, expressing desire and devotion. This reflects the biblical principle that love must be pursued and nurtured. Just as human relationships require intentional effort to remain strong, the believer’s relationship with Christ must also be pursued through prayer, worship, and obedience. James 4:8 calls believers to draw near to God, with the promise that He will draw near to them.

The imagery of fruitfulness and abundance in this chapter points to the joy and blessing that result from godly love. A flourishing relationship is one where both partners are fulfilled and experience joy together. This aligns with Psalm 128:1-4, which describes the blessings of those who walk in obedience to the Lord, experiencing joy in their marriages and families.

Finally, Song of Solomon 7 highlights the connection between human love and divine love. The deep admiration and longing between the bride and bridegroom serve as a picture of Christ’s love for His Church. Just as the bride desires to be with her beloved, so too should believers long for a deeper relationship with Christ. Philippians 3:10 expresses the desire to know Christ more intimately, sharing in His life and love.

Song of Solomon 7 ultimately teaches that love is meant to be expressed, nurtured, and celebrated within the covenant of marriage. It upholds the biblical model of faithfulness, intimacy, and delight in one another. More than that, it points to the greater reality of God’s love for His people, calling believers to pursue a relationship with Him that is marked by passion, commitment, and joy.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Song of Solomon 7:1

“How beautiful your sandaled feet, O prince’s daughter! Your graceful legs are like jewels, the work of an artist’s hands.” (NIV)

The bridegroom begins by praising the beauty of his bride, starting with her feet. The reference to “sandaled feet” suggests dignity and honor, as footwear in ancient times symbolized status and nobility. Calling her a “prince’s daughter” highlights her worth and royal standing, reflecting how love sees its beloved as precious and exalted.

• Cross-References:

• • Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news.”
  • 1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.”
• Doctrinal Insight: Love recognizes and affirms the dignity of the beloved. Spiritually, believers are seen as royal and precious in God’s sight.
• Application: Christians should affirm and encourage their spouses and others in relationships, speaking words of honor. Spiritually, believers should walk in the confidence of their identity in Christ as His chosen people.

Song of Solomon 7:2

“Your navel is a rounded goblet that never lacks blended wine. Your waist is a mound of wheat encircled by lilies.” (NIV)

The poetic imagery of a goblet and wheat symbolizes nourishment, abundance, and blessing. The reference to blended wine speaks of richness and satisfaction, while wheat represents provision and fruitfulness. The bridegroom’s admiration is not merely physical but reflects appreciation for the completeness of his bride.

• Cross-References:

• • Psalm 23:5 – “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
  • John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
• Doctrinal Insight: Love is meant to be abundant and life-giving, just as God’s blessings are poured out abundantly on His people.
• Application: In marriage, spouses should cultivate appreciation and gratitude for one another. In faith, believers should embrace the fullness of joy that comes from Christ’s provision.

Song of Solomon 7:3-4

“Your breasts are like two fawns, like twin fawns of a gazelle. Your neck is like an ivory tower. Your eyes are the pools of Heshbon by the gate of Bath Rabbim. Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon looking toward Damascus.” (NIV)

These verses continue the bridegroom’s admiration, using nature imagery to describe beauty, grace, and dignity. The mention of twin fawns conveys gentleness and tenderness, while the ivory tower represents strength and elegance. The “pools of Heshbon” symbolize depth and serenity, emphasizing the bride’s captivating presence.

• Cross-References:

• • Proverbs 5:18-19 – “May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.”
  • Psalm 144:12 – “Then our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace.”
• Doctrinal Insight: True love appreciates both beauty and character, recognizing strength, gentleness, and depth in the beloved.
• Application: Believers should value and cherish the strengths of their spouses and loved ones, building relationships on admiration and honor.

Song of Solomon 7:5

“Your head crowns you like Mount Carmel. Your hair is like royal tapestry; the king is held captive by its tresses.” (NIV)

The reference to Mount Carmel, known for its majesty and fertility, signifies regal beauty and dignity. The mention of the king being captivated by her hair symbolizes how love is deeply compelling and enthralling.

• Cross-References:

• • 1 Corinthians 11:15 – “But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory.”
  • Psalm 45:11 – “Let the king be enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.”
• Doctrinal Insight: Love and admiration are powerful forces that deepen commitment and passion.
• Application: In relationships, admiration should be freely expressed. In faith, believers should recognize how Christ delights in His Church and reflect that love in worship.

Song of Solomon 7:6

“How beautiful you are and how pleasing, my love, with your delights!” (NIV)

This verse expresses the joy and pleasure found in love. The bridegroom takes delight in his bride, emphasizing that love is meant to bring joy and fulfillment.

• Cross-References:

• • Zephaniah 3:17 – “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you.”
  • Psalm 16:11 – “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.”
• Doctrinal Insight: Love is not only a duty but a delight, reflecting God’s joy in His relationship with His people.
• Application: Spouses should cultivate joy in their marriage, finding ways to cherish and enjoy one another. Spiritually, believers should take delight in their relationship with Christ.

Song of Solomon 7:7-8

“Your stature is like that of the palm, and your breasts like clusters of fruit. I said, ‘I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit.’ May your breasts be like clusters of grapes on the vine, the fragrance of your breath like apples.” (NIV)

The palm tree symbolizes uprightness, resilience, and fruitfulness. The imagery of grapes and apples represents sweetness and satisfaction in love. The bridegroom expresses his longing and desire for deeper intimacy.

• Cross-References:

• • Psalm 92:12 – “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree.”
  • John 15:5 – “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.”
• Doctrinal Insight: Love is designed to be fruitful and fulfilling, just as a relationship with God produces spiritual fruit.
• Application: Marriage should be cultivated for intimacy and fruitfulness. Spiritually, believers must remain connected to Christ to experience the fullness of life.

Song of Solomon 7:9-10

“May your mouth be like the best wine, flowing gently over lips and teeth. I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me.” (NIV)

The imagery of wine symbolizes delight and satisfaction, and the bride affirms her belonging to her beloved. This verse captures the security and exclusivity of love.

Cross-References:

• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “You are not your own; you were bought at a price.”
• Ephesians 5:25-27 – Christ’s love for the Church is sacrificial and exclusive.

Doctrinal Insight: True love is based on belonging and mutual desire, reflecting Christ’s love for His Church.

Application: Marriage should be built on mutual devotion and security. Believers should rest in the assurance of their identity in Christ.

Song of Solomon 7:11-13

“Come, my beloved, let us go to the countryside, let us spend the night in the villages… There I will give you my love.” (NIV)

The bride invites her beloved into deeper intimacy, expressing a desire for closeness and shared joy. This reflects the biblical principle that love must be pursued and cultivated.

• Cross-References:

• • James 4:8 – “Come near to God and He will come near to you.”
  • Psalm 63:1 – “You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you.”
• Doctrinal Insight: Love is active, not passive. Just as love in marriage must be pursued, so too must a relationship with Christ be intentionally nurtured.
• Application: Spouses should prioritize time and effort in their marriage. Believers should actively seek intimacy with God through prayer, worship, and devotion.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Song of Solomon 7 points to Christ as the Bridegroom who delights in His Church. Just as the bridegroom in this chapter expresses deep admiration and desire for his bride, so too does Jesus love and cherish His people. Ephesians 5:25-27 reveals that Christ gave Himself for the Church to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing of water through the Word. The imagery of beauty, fruitfulness, and desire in this chapter mirrors Christ’s intimate relationship with His followers, where He longs for their devotion and calls them into deeper fellowship with Him. The bride’s confidence in belonging to her beloved reflects the security that believers have in Christ. John 10:28 assures that those who belong to Jesus can never be snatched from His hand. The call to intimacy in the passage echoes Jesus’ invitation in John 15:4, where He urges His disciples to remain in Him, promising that apart from Him they can do nothing. The richness of love depicted in Song of Solomon 7 foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of love at the marriage supper of the Lamb in Revelation 19:7-9, where Christ is united eternally with His bride, the Church.

Connection to the Father

The chapter connects to the Father by revealing His design for love, intimacy, and delight. The bridegroom’s admiration of his bride reflects how the Father delights in His people. Zephaniah 3:17 declares that the Lord rejoices over His people with singing, showing that God does not merely tolerate His children but takes great joy in them. The theme of belonging in this chapter mirrors how God has chosen His people as His treasured possession. Deuteronomy 7:6 affirms that Israel was set apart as holy, loved by God above all the nations. The fruitfulness and flourishing imagery reflect the Father’s blessing upon those who walk in obedience to Him. Psalm 1:3 describes the righteous as a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season, demonstrating that those who remain in God’s presence will prosper spiritually. The Father’s faithful love is seen in the exclusivity of the bridegroom’s devotion, mirroring how God calls His people to love Him wholeheartedly and to have no other gods before Him (Exodus 20:3). The picture of a thriving, intimate relationship in Song of Solomon 7 reflects the Father’s original intent for humanity—to live in joyful communion with Him, as seen in the Garden of Eden before sin entered the world.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit’s presence is seen in the language of fruitfulness, delight, and intimacy in this chapter. The bride is described as flourishing, full of life, and radiating beauty, which parallels how the Spirit works in believers to produce the fruit of righteousness. Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit, including love, joy, and peace, all of which are necessary for a strong and thriving relationship with God. The bride’s invitation to her beloved to join her in the vineyards and enjoy the fruitfulness of love reflects how the Holy Spirit draws believers into deeper communion with Christ. Romans 8:16 reveals that the Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children, affirming our belonging to Him. The imagery of wine, fragrance, and abundance aligns with the Spirit’s role in filling believers with the joy and satisfaction found in Christ. Ephesians 5:18 urges believers to be filled with the Spirit rather than with wine, showing that true fulfillment comes from a life led by God’s Spirit. The Spirit’s work is also seen in the way love is expressed in this chapter—passionate, exclusive, and fully devoted, just as the Spirit convicts, guides, and sanctifies believers so they can remain faithful to Christ.

Connection to God’s Love

Song of Solomon 7 is a powerful illustration of God’s love as personal, affectionate, and deeply committed. The bridegroom’s passionate pursuit of his bride reflects how God actively seeks and desires a close relationship with His people. Isaiah 62:5 states that as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so God rejoices over His people. The exclusive nature of the love described in this chapter mirrors God’s covenant love, which is faithful and unchanging. Lamentations 3:22-23 declares that His mercies are new every morning and His faithfulness never fails. The chapter’s descriptions of beauty and fruitfulness show how God’s love is transformative, making His people flourish when they abide in Him. John 15:9-10 reveals that remaining in Christ’s love leads to a life of obedience and joy. The bride’s longing for intimacy with her beloved reflects how believers should hunger for God’s presence. Psalm 42:1-2 expresses a deep thirst for God, likening it to a deer longing for streams of water. The ultimate expression of God’s love is seen in Christ’s sacrifice, where He laid down His life for His bride. Romans 5:8 proclaims that God demonstrates His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Song of Solomon 7, therefore, is not just a portrait of human love but a reminder of God’s eternal, unwavering, and passionate love for His people. It calls believers to respond by drawing closer to Him, delighting in His presence, and living in the joy of being fully known and fully loved.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “The Beauty of Love: A Picture of Christ and His Church”

Introduction

Begin with an analogy about love that deepens over time. Use an example of a couple married for decades who still cherish one another despite the years passing. Explain that Song of Solomon 7 captures the ongoing admiration and intimacy between the bride and the bridegroom, demonstrating that love is not only passionate but also committed, flourishing, and continually growing. This chapter serves as both a model for marital love and a picture of Christ’s love for His Church. The sermon will focus on three key themes: the beauty of love that affirms, the exclusivity of love that commits, and the fruitfulness of love that flourishes.

Main Point 1: Love That Affirms and Cherishes (Song of Solomon 7:1-5)

• The bridegroom praises his bride’s beauty, affirming her worth and value. He describes her from her feet to her head, signifying his complete admiration. His words are poetic and filled with honor, reflecting how love should be expressed openly and sincerely.
• This demonstrates the importance of affirming and cherishing one’s spouse. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that words have the power of life and death. Encouraging words sustain and strengthen relationships.
• Spiritually, this reflects how Christ affirms His Church. Ephesians 5:25-27 shows that Jesus presents His bride as radiant and blameless. He does not see her flaws but sees her clothed in His righteousness.
• Application: In marriage, spouses should practice affirming one another daily, speaking words of love and appreciation. In faith, believers should rest in the affirmation that Christ loves and values them, regardless of their past failures.

Illustration: A parent who constantly tells their child how proud they are, how beautiful they are, and how much they are loved. Just as this affirmation strengthens the child’s confidence, so too does affirmation in marriage and in our relationship with Christ build faith and love.

Main Point 2: Love That Commits Exclusively (Song of Solomon 7:6-9)

• The bridegroom’s admiration of his bride is not general but exclusive. He sees her as unique and incomparable. This mirrors the biblical principle that love is set apart and faithful.
• This speaks to both marriage and the believer’s relationship with Christ. Hebrews 13:4 teaches that marriage should be honored and kept pure. Likewise, devotion to God should not be divided. Jesus calls His followers to love the Lord with all their heart (Matthew 22:37).
• Application: In relationships, exclusivity and faithfulness are key. Spouses must guard against anything that would divide their love. Spiritually, believers must remove distractions that compete with their devotion to Christ, prioritizing their relationship with Him above all else.

Illustration: A bride on her wedding day does not look at anyone else—her eyes are only for her groom. This reflects how love should be singular and devoted, just as Christ’s love for us is unwavering and exclusive.

Main Point 3: Love That Flourishes and Bears Fruit (Song of Solomon 7:10-13)

• The bride responds to the bridegroom’s admiration by inviting him to enjoy the fruitfulness of their love. The vineyard imagery represents a relationship that is thriving and abundant.
• This illustrates that love must be nurtured to grow. Just as gardens need care to flourish, relationships need intentional effort. In faith, Jesus calls believers to abide in Him so that they will bear much fruit (John 15:5).
• Application: Marriages require time, investment, and sacrifice to remain strong. Similarly, a Christian’s relationship with God must be cultivated through prayer, Scripture, and worship.

Illustration: A neglected garden becomes overgrown with weeds, while a well-tended garden produces abundant fruit. Love, both in marriage and in faith, requires continual care and investment.

Conclusion: A Call to Cultivate Love

• Recap the three main points: Love affirms and cherishes, love commits exclusively, and love flourishes when nurtured.
• Call to action: Challenge married couples to be intentional in affirming their spouse, prioritizing faithfulness, and investing in their relationship. Encourage believers to draw closer to Christ, removing anything that hinders their devotion to Him.
• Encourage those who feel distant from God to return to Him, knowing that He delights in them and longs for intimacy.
• Close with prayer, asking God to strengthen marriages, deepen faith, and cultivate love that reflects His glory.

Illustrations and Examples

A Father Affirming His Daughter

A father tells his daughter every day that she is beautiful, loved, and valuable. Over time, she grows confident in her identity because she knows she is cherished. This illustrates how love affirms and how Christ speaks truth over His Church, building her up in love.

A Bride with Eyes Only for Her Groom

At a wedding, the bride walks down the aisle with her eyes fixed on the groom, ignoring the crowd. This symbolizes the exclusivity of love in marriage and the singular devotion believers should have for Christ.

A Well-Tended Garden vs. A Neglected One

A garden that is regularly watered and cared for flourishes with fruit, while a neglected one becomes dry and unfruitful. This mirrors how love in relationships and faith in Christ require intentional effort to grow.

A Farmer Who Invests in His Field

A farmer does not expect a harvest without planting, watering, and tending the field. In the same way, love in marriage and faith must be actively nurtured to yield fruit.

Application for Today’s Christian

Christians must affirm and cherish those they love. Just as the bridegroom praises his bride, relationships thrive when words of encouragement and appreciation are spoken. This applies to marriage, friendships, and even how believers interact with others in the church.

Believers should cultivate an exclusive love for Christ. The world offers many distractions, but true devotion to Jesus requires undivided attention and faithfulness. Just as a spouse remains loyal in marriage, a Christian must remain faithful to God, rejecting anything that competes for their heart.

Love must be nurtured to flourish. Relationships with spouses, family, and God do not grow automatically; they require investment. This means setting aside time for prayer, reading Scripture, and maintaining strong communication in marriage and friendships.

Faith should bear fruit. Just as the bride invited her beloved into the vineyard, believers must cultivate spiritual fruit in their lives. Galatians 5:22-23 calls Christians to live out love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness, reflecting Christ’s love in practical ways.

Marriage is a reflection of God’s love. Husbands and wives should model the love of Christ in their relationship, practicing patience, forgiveness, and selflessness. Just as Christ loves His Church sacrificially, spouses should love one another with the same devotion.

Intimacy with Christ is essential. The longing between the bride and bridegroom in Song of Solomon mirrors the believer’s desire for closeness with God. Spending time in His presence, worshiping, and meditating on His Word deepens this relationship.

Song of Solomon 7 calls believers to embrace love as God intended—passionate, exclusive, and growing. Whether in marriage or in faith, love must be nurtured, affirmed, and pursued with intentionality. Above all, it points to Christ’s unwavering love for His people, calling them to a life of deep devotion and joy in Him.

Reflection Questions 

1. In Song of Solomon 7:1-5, the bridegroom praises his bride with admiration and honor. How can words of affirmation strengthen a marriage or any relationship?
2. How does Christ affirm and cherish His Church? How does knowing that Christ delights in you impact your faith?
3. Proverbs 18:21 says that “the tongue has the power of life and death.” How can you use your words this week to encourage and uplift someone in your life?
4. Song of Solomon 7 highlights the exclusive devotion between the bride and bridegroom. How does this reflect the kind of love God desires from His people?
5. What are some common distractions that compete for your devotion to Christ? How can you remove these distractions and refocus on Him?
6. Hebrews 13:4 reminds believers to honor marriage. How can spouses remain faithful in both actions and thoughts? What steps can be taken to protect the exclusivity of love in relationships?
7. The imagery of vineyards, fruit, and abundance in Song of Solomon 7:10-13 suggests a love that is growing and flourishing. How can relationships, including marriage and friendships, be cultivated to remain strong and healthy?
8. Jesus calls believers to abide in Him in John 15:4-5, saying that apart from Him, they can do nothing. What are some practical ways to remain connected to Christ so that your spiritual life continues to bear fruit?
9. In what areas of your life do you feel your love for God is growing? In what areas do you feel stagnant? What steps can you take to nurture a deeper relationship with Him?