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Text -- The Song of Songs 2:11-17 (NET)

Strongs On/Off
Context
2:11 Look! The winter has passed, the winter rains are over and gone. 2:12 The pomegranates have appeared in the land, the time for pruning and singing has come; the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. 2:13 The fig tree has budded, the vines have blossomed and give off their fragrance. Arise, come away my darling; my beautiful one, come away with me!”
The Dove in the Clefts of En-Gedi
2:14 The Lover to His Beloved: O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the hiding places of the mountain crags, let me see your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.
The Foxes in the Vineyard
2:15 The Beloved to Her Lover: Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes, that ruin the vineyards– for our vineyard is in bloom.
Poetic Refrain: Mutual Possession
2:16 The Beloved about Her Lover: My lover is mine and I am his; he grazes among the lilies.
The Gazelle and the Rugged Mountains
2:17 The Beloved to Her Lover: Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee, turn, my beloved– be like a gazelle or a young stag on the mountain gorges.
Parallel   Cross Reference (TSK)   ITL  

Names, People and Places, Dictionary Themes and Topics

Dictionary Themes and Topics: VINE | TENDER | Song | SEASONS | ROCK | RAINFALL IN JERUSALEM IN INCHES | Personification | PIGEON | PALESTINE, 3 | MARBLE | MALOBATHRON | LILY | GAZELLE | Fellowship | FLOWERS | FIG, FIG-TREE | DEER | COUNTENANCE | COLOR; COLORS | APPEAR | more
Table of Contents

Word/Phrase Notes
Wesley , JFB , Clarke , Defender , TSK

Word/Phrase Notes
Barnes , Poole , Haydock , Gill

Verse Notes / Footnotes
NET Notes , Geneva Bible

Verse Range Notes
TSK Synopsis , MHCC , Matthew Henry , Keil-Delitzsch , Constable

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per phrase)

Wesley: Sos 2:11 - -- Spiritual troubles arising from a deep sense of the guilt of sin, the wrath of God, the curse of the law; all which made them afraid to come unto God....

Spiritual troubles arising from a deep sense of the guilt of sin, the wrath of God, the curse of the law; all which made them afraid to come unto God. But, saith Christ, I have removed these impediments, God is reconciled; therefore cast off all discouragements, and excuses, and come to me.

Wesley: Sos 2:12 - -- The communications of God's grace, the gifts, and graces, and comforts of the Holy Spirit, are vouchsafed unto, and appear in believers, as buds and b...

The communications of God's grace, the gifts, and graces, and comforts of the Holy Spirit, are vouchsafed unto, and appear in believers, as buds and blossoms do in the spring.

Wesley: Sos 2:12 - -- This seems particularly to be mentioned because it not only gives notice of the spring, but aptly represents the Spirit of God, which even the Chaldee...

This seems particularly to be mentioned because it not only gives notice of the spring, but aptly represents the Spirit of God, which even the Chaldee paraphrast understands by this turtle, which appeared in the shape of a dove, and which worketh a dove - like meekness, and chastity, and faithfulness, in believers.

Wesley: Sos 2:13 - -- Which it shoots forth in the spring.

Which it shoots forth in the spring.

Wesley: Sos 2:14 - -- So the church is called, for her dove - like temper, and for her dove - like condition, because she is weak, and exposed to persecution, and therefore...

So the church is called, for her dove - like temper, and for her dove - like condition, because she is weak, and exposed to persecution, and therefore forced to hide herself in rocks.

Wesley: Sos 2:14 - -- In the holes of craggy and broken rocks, which resemble stairs.

In the holes of craggy and broken rocks, which resemble stairs.

Wesley: Sos 2:14 - -- Be not afraid to appear before me.

Be not afraid to appear before me.

Wesley: Sos 2:14 - -- Thy prayers and praises.

Thy prayers and praises.

Wesley: Sos 2:14 - -- Thy person and services are amiable in my sight.

Thy person and services are amiable in my sight.

Wesley: Sos 2:15 - -- The bridegroom gives this charge to his bridemen or friends. By whom he understands those magistrates and ministers to whom, under Christ, the custody...

The bridegroom gives this charge to his bridemen or friends. By whom he understands those magistrates and ministers to whom, under Christ, the custody of the vineyards, the churches, principally belong. These he commands to take the foxes, to restrain them from doing this mischief.

Wesley: Sos 2:15 - -- The disturbers of the vineyard, or the church, seducers or false teachers.

The disturbers of the vineyard, or the church, seducers or false teachers.

Wesley: Sos 2:15 - -- This he adds for more abundant caution, to teach the church to prevent errors and heresies in the beginnings.

This he adds for more abundant caution, to teach the church to prevent errors and heresies in the beginnings.

Wesley: Sos 2:15 - -- Which foxes do many ways, by gnawing and breaking the little branches and leaves, by digging holes in the vineyards, and so spoiling the roots.

Which foxes do many ways, by gnawing and breaking the little branches and leaves, by digging holes in the vineyards, and so spoiling the roots.

Wesley: Sos 2:15 - -- Which are easily spoiled, if great care be not used to prevent it.

Which are easily spoiled, if great care be not used to prevent it.

Wesley: Sos 2:16 - -- These are the words of the bride, who having come to him upon his gracious invitation, now maketh her boast of him.

These are the words of the bride, who having come to him upon his gracious invitation, now maketh her boast of him.

Wesley: Sos 2:16 - -- Abideth and refresheth himself amongst his faithful people, who are compared to lillies, Son 2:2.

Abideth and refresheth himself amongst his faithful people, who are compared to lillies, Son 2:2.

Wesley: Sos 2:17 - -- Until the morning of that blessed day of the general resurrection, when all the shadows, not only of ignorance, and sin, and calamity, but even of out...

Until the morning of that blessed day of the general resurrection, when all the shadows, not only of ignorance, and sin, and calamity, but even of outward administrations, shall cease.

Wesley: Sos 2:17 - -- Return to me. For although Christ had come to her, and she had gladly received him, yet he was gone again, as is here implied, and evidently appears f...

Return to me. For although Christ had come to her, and she had gladly received him, yet he was gone again, as is here implied, and evidently appears from the following verse. Which sudden change is very agreeable to the state of God's people in this world, where they are subject to frequent changes.

Wesley: Sos 2:17 - -- In swiftness; make haste to help me.

In swiftness; make haste to help me.

Wesley: Sos 2:17 - -- A place in the land of promise, where it seems those creatures were in great abundance.

A place in the land of promise, where it seems those creatures were in great abundance.

JFB: Sos 2:10-11 - -- Loving reassurance given by Jesus Christ to the bride, lest she should think that He had ceased to love her, on account of her unfaithfulness, which h...

Loving reassurance given by Jesus Christ to the bride, lest she should think that He had ceased to love her, on account of her unfaithfulness, which had occasioned His temporary withdrawal. He allures her to brighter than worldly joys (Mic 2:10). Not only does the saint wish to depart to be with Him, but He still more desires to have the saint with Him above (Joh 17:24). Historically, the vineyard or garden of the King, here first introduced, is "the kingdom of heaven preached" by John the Baptist, before whom "the law and the prophets were" (Luk 16:16).

JFB: Sos 2:11 - -- The law of the covenant of works (Mat 4:16).

The law of the covenant of works (Mat 4:16).

JFB: Sos 2:11 - -- (Heb 12:18-24; 1Jo 2:8). Then first the Gentile Church is called "beloved, which was not beloved" (Rom 9:25). So "the winter" of estrangement and sin...

(Heb 12:18-24; 1Jo 2:8). Then first the Gentile Church is called "beloved, which was not beloved" (Rom 9:25). So "the winter" of estrangement and sin is "past" to the believer (Isa 44:22; Jer 50:20; 2Co 5:17; Eph 2:1). The rising "Sun of righteousness" dispels the "rain" (2Sa 23:4; Psa 126:5; Mal 4:2). The winter in Palestine is past by April, but all the showers were not over till May. The time described here is that which comes directly after these last showers of winter. In the highest sense, the coming resurrection and deliverance of the earth from the past curse is here implied (Rom 8:19; Rev 21:4; Rev 22:3). No more "clouds" shall then "return after the rain" (Ecc 12:2; Rev 4:3; compare Gen 9:13-17); "the rainbow round the throne" is the "token" of this.

JFB: Sos 2:12 - -- Tokens of anger past, and of grace come. "The summoned bride is welcome," say some fathers, "to weave from them garlands of beauty, wherewith she may ...

Tokens of anger past, and of grace come. "The summoned bride is welcome," say some fathers, "to weave from them garlands of beauty, wherewith she may adorn herself to meet the King." Historically, the flowers, &c., only give promise; the fruit is not ripe yet; suitable to the preaching of John the Baptist, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand"; not yet fully come.

JFB: Sos 2:12 - -- The rejoicing at the advent of Jesus Christ. GREGORY NYSSENUS refers the voice of the turtledove to John the Baptist. It with the olive branch announc...

The rejoicing at the advent of Jesus Christ. GREGORY NYSSENUS refers the voice of the turtledove to John the Baptist. It with the olive branch announced to Noah that "the rain was over and gone" (Gen 8:11). So John the Baptist, spiritually. Its plaintive "voice" answers to his preaching of repentance (Jer 8:6-7). Vulgate and Septuagint translate, "The time of pruning," namely, spring (Joh 15:2). The mention of the "turtle's" cooing better accords with our text. The turtledove is migratory (Jer 8:7), and "comes" early in May; emblem of love, and so of the Holy Ghost. Love, too, shall be the keynote of the "new song" hereafter (Isa 35:10; Rev 1:5; Rev 14:3; Rev 19:6). In the individual believer now, joy and love are here set forth in their earlier manifestations (Mar 4:28).

JFB: Sos 2:13 - -- Rather, "ripens," literally, "makes red" [MAURER]. The unripe figs, which grow in winter, begin to ripen in early spring, and in June are fully mature...

Rather, "ripens," literally, "makes red" [MAURER]. The unripe figs, which grow in winter, begin to ripen in early spring, and in June are fully matured [WEISS].

JFB: Sos 2:13 - -- Rather, "the vines in flower," literally, "a flower," in apposition with "vines" [MAURER]. The vine flowers were so sweet that they were often put, wh...

Rather, "the vines in flower," literally, "a flower," in apposition with "vines" [MAURER]. The vine flowers were so sweet that they were often put, when dried, into new wine to give it flavor. Applicable to the first manifestations of Jesus Christ, "the true Vine," both to the Church and to individuals; as to Nathanael under the fig tree (Joh 1:48).

JFB: Sos 2:13 - -- His call, described by the bride, ends as it began (Son 2:10); it is a consistent whole; "love" from first to last (Isa 52:1-2; 2Co 6:17-18). "Come," ...

His call, described by the bride, ends as it began (Son 2:10); it is a consistent whole; "love" from first to last (Isa 52:1-2; 2Co 6:17-18). "Come," in the close of Rev 22:17, as at His earlier manifestation (Mat 11:28).

JFB: Sos 2:14 - -- Here expressing endearment (Psa 74:19). Doves are noted for constant attachment; emblems, also, in their soft, plaintive note, of softened penitents (...

Here expressing endearment (Psa 74:19). Doves are noted for constant attachment; emblems, also, in their soft, plaintive note, of softened penitents (Isa 59:11; Eze 7:16); other points of likeness are their beauty; "their wings covered with silver and gold" (Psa 68:13), typifying the change in the converted; the dove-like spirit, breathed into the saint by the Holy Ghost, whose emblem is the dove; the messages of peace from God to sinful men, as Noah's dove, with the olive branch (Gen 8:11), intimated that the flood of wrath was past; timidity, fleeing with fear from sin and self to the cleft Rock of Ages (Isa 26:4, Margin; Hos 11:11); gregarious, flocking together to the kingdom of Jesus Christ (Isa 60:8); harmless simplicity (Mat 10:16).

JFB: Sos 2:14 - -- The refuge of doves from storm and heat (Jer 48:28; see Jer 49:16). GESENIUS translates the Hebrew from a different root, "the refuges." But see, for ...

The refuge of doves from storm and heat (Jer 48:28; see Jer 49:16). GESENIUS translates the Hebrew from a different root, "the refuges." But see, for "clefts," Exo 33:18-23. It is only when we are in Christ Jesus that our "voice is sweet (in prayer, Son 4:3, Son 4:11; Mat 10:20; Gal 4:6, because it is His voice in us; also in speaking of Him, Mal 3:16); and our countenance comely" (Exo 34:29; Psa 27:5; Psa 71:3; Isa 33:16; 2Co 3:18).

JFB: Sos 2:14 - -- (Eze 38:20, Margin), a steep rock, broken into stairs or terraces. It is in "secret places" and rugged scenes that Jesus Christ woos the soul from th...

(Eze 38:20, Margin), a steep rock, broken into stairs or terraces. It is in "secret places" and rugged scenes that Jesus Christ woos the soul from the world to Himself (Mic 2:10; Mic 7:14). So Jacob amid the stones of Beth-el (Gen 28:11-19); Moses at Horeb (Exo. 3:1-22); so Elijah (1Ki 19:9-13); Jesus Christ with the three disciples on a "high mountain apart," at the transfiguration (Mat 17:1); John in Patmos (Rev 1:9). "Of the eight beatitudes, five have an afflicted condition for their subject. As long as the waters are on the earth, we dwell in the ark; but when the land is dry, the dove itself will be tempted to wander" [JEREMY TAYLOR]. Jesus Christ does not invite her to leave the rock, but in it (Himself), yet in holy freedom to lay aside the timorous spirit, look up boldly as accepted in Him, pray, praise, and confess Him (in contrast to her shrinking from being looked at, Son 1:6), (Eph 6:19; Heb 13:15; 1Jo 4:18); still, though trembling, the voice and countenance of the soul in Jesus Christ are pleasant to Him. The Church found no cleft in the Sinaitic legal rock, though good in itself, wherein to hide; but in Jesus Christ stricken by God for us, as the rock smitten by Moses (Num 20:11), there is a hiding-place (Isa 32:2). She praised His "voice" (Son 2:8, Son 2:10); it is thus that her voice also, though tremulous, is "sweet" to Him here.

JFB: Sos 2:15 - -- Transition to the vineyard, often formed in "stairs" (Son 2:14), or terraces, in which, amidst the vine leaves, foxes hid.

Transition to the vineyard, often formed in "stairs" (Son 2:14), or terraces, in which, amidst the vine leaves, foxes hid.

JFB: Sos 2:15 - -- Generic term, including jackals. They eat only grapes, not the vine flowers; but they need to be driven out in time before the grape is ripe. She had ...

Generic term, including jackals. They eat only grapes, not the vine flowers; but they need to be driven out in time before the grape is ripe. She had failed in watchfulness before (Son 1:6); now when converted, she is the more jealous of subtle sins (Psa 139:23). In spiritual winter certain evils are frozen up, as well as good; in the spring of revivals these start up unperceived, crafty, false teachers, spiritual pride, uncharitableness, &c. (Psa 19:12; Mat 13:26; Luk 8:14; 2Ti 2:17; Heb 12:15). "Little" sins are parents of the greatest (Ecc 10:1; 1Co 5:6). Historically, John the Baptist spared not the fox-like Herod (Luk 13:32), who gave vine-like promise of fruit at first (Mar 6:20), at the cost of his life; nor the viper-Sadducees, &c.; nor the varied subtle forms of sin (Luk 3:7-14).

JFB: Sos 2:16 - -- Rather, "is for me . . . for Him" (Hos 3:3), where, as here, there is the assurance of indissoluble union, in spite of temporary absence. Son 2:17, en...

Rather, "is for me . . . for Him" (Hos 3:3), where, as here, there is the assurance of indissoluble union, in spite of temporary absence. Son 2:17, entreating Him to return, shows that He has gone, perhaps through her want of guarding against the "little sins" (Son 2:15). The order of the clauses is reversed in Son 6:3, when she is riper in faith: there she rests more on her being His; here, on His being hers; and no doubt her sense of love to Him is a pledge that she is His (Joh 14:21, Joh 14:23; 1Co 8:3); this is her consolation in His withdrawal now.

JFB: Sos 2:16 - -- By creation (Psa 100:3), by redemption (Joh 17:10; Rom 14:8; 1Co 6:19).

By creation (Psa 100:3), by redemption (Joh 17:10; Rom 14:8; 1Co 6:19).

JFB: Sos 2:16 - -- As a "roe," or gazelle (Son 2:17); instinct is sure to lead him back to his feeding ground, where the lilies abound. So Jesus Christ, though now withd...

As a "roe," or gazelle (Son 2:17); instinct is sure to lead him back to his feeding ground, where the lilies abound. So Jesus Christ, though now withdrawn, the bride feels sure will return to His favorite resting-place (Son 7:10; Psa 132:14). So hereafter (Rev 21:3). Psa 45:1, title, terms his lovely bride's "lilies" [HENGSTENBERG] pure and white, though among thorns (Son 2:2).

JFB: Sos 2:17 - -- Is the image of the present world (Rom 13:12). "Behold men as if dwelling in subterranean cavern" [PLATO, Republic, 7.1].

Is the image of the present world (Rom 13:12). "Behold men as if dwelling in subterranean cavern" [PLATO, Republic, 7.1].

JFB: Sos 2:17 - -- That is, "Before that," &c.

That is, "Before that," &c.

JFB: Sos 2:17 - -- Rather, "breathe"; referring to the refreshing breeze of dawn in the East; or to the air of life, which distinguishes morning from the death-like stil...

Rather, "breathe"; referring to the refreshing breeze of dawn in the East; or to the air of life, which distinguishes morning from the death-like stillness of night. MAURER takes this verse of the approach of night, when the breeze arises after the heat of day (compare Gen 3:8, Margin, with Gen 18:1), and the "shadows" are lost in night (Psa 102:11); thus our life will be the day; death, the night (Joh 9:4). The English Version better accords with (Son 3:1). "By night" (Rom 13:12).

JFB: Sos 2:17 - -- To me.

To me.

JFB: Sos 2:17 - -- Mountains of Bithron, separated from the rest of Israel by the Jordan (2Sa 2:29), not far from Bethabara, where John baptized and Jesus was first mani...

Mountains of Bithron, separated from the rest of Israel by the Jordan (2Sa 2:29), not far from Bethabara, where John baptized and Jesus was first manifested. Rather, as Margin, "of divisions," and Septuagint, mountains intersected with deep gaps, hard to pass over, separating the bride and Jesus Christ. In Son 8:14 the mountains are of spices, on which the roe feeds, not of separation; for at His first coming He had to overpass the gulf made by sin between Him and us (Zec 4:6-7); in His second, He will only have to come down from the fragrant hill above to take home His prepared bride. Historically, in the ministry of John the Baptist, Christ's call to the bride was not, as later (Son 4:8), "Come with me," but "Come away," namely, to meet Me (Son 2:2, Son 2:10, Son 2:13). Sitting in darkness (Mat 4:16), she "waited" and "looked" eagerly for Him, the "great light" (Luk 1:79; Luk 2:25, Luk 2:38); at His rising, the shadows of the law (Col 2:16-17; Heb 10:1) were to "flee away." So we wait for the second coming, when means of grace, so precious now, shall be superseded by the Sun of righteousness (1Co 13:10, 1Co 13:12; Rev 21:22-23). The Word is our light until then (2Pe 1:19).

Clarke: Sos 2:11 - -- The winter is past - Mr. Harmer has made some good collections on this part, from Drs. Shaw and Russet, which I shall transcrilbe. One part of the w...

The winter is past - Mr. Harmer has made some good collections on this part, from Drs. Shaw and Russet, which I shall transcrilbe. One part of the winter is distinguished from the rest of it by the people of the East, on account of the severity of the cold. At Aleppo it lasts about forty days, and is called by the natives maurbanie. I would propose it to the consideration of the learned, whether the word here used, and translated winter, may not be understood to mean what the Aleppines express by the term maurbanie. It occurs nowhere else in the Old Testament; and another word is used for the rainy part of the year in general. If this thought be admitted, it will greatly illustrate the words of the bridegroom: Lo, the winter is past; the rain is over, and gone. For then the last clause will not be explanatory of the first, and signify that the moist part of the year was entirely past; with which, Dr. Russel assures us, all pleasantness withdraws at Aleppo; but the words will import: "The maurbanie is past and over; the weather is become agreeably warm; the rain too is just ceased, and consequently hath left us the prospect of several days of serenity and undisturbed pleasantness.

The weather of Judea was in this respect, I presume, like that at Algiers; where, after two or three days of rain, there is usually, according to Dr. Shaw, "a week, a fortnight, or more, of fair and good weather. Of such a sort of cessation of rain alone, the bridegroom, methinks, is here to be understood; not of the absolute termination of the rainy season, and the summer droughts being come on. And if so, what can the time that is past mean but the maurbanie? Indeed, Dr. Russel, in giving us an account of the excursions of the English merchants at Aleppo, has undesignedly furnished us with a good comment on this and the two following verses. These gentlemen, it seems, dine abroad under a tent, in spring and autumn on Saturdays, and often on Wednesdays. They do the same during the good weather in winter; but they live at the gardens in April, and part of May. In the heat of the summer they dine at the gardens, as once or twice a week they dine under a tent in autumn and spring."The cold weather is not supposed by Solomon to have been long over, since it is distinctly mentioned; and the Aleppines make these incursions very early; the narcissus flowers during the whole of the maurbanie; the hyacinths and violets at least before it is quite over. The appearing of flowers, then, doth not mean the appearing of the first and earliest flowers, but must rather be understood of the earth’ s being covered with them; which at Aleppo is not till after the middle of February, a small crane’ s bill appearing on the banks of the river there about the middle of February, quickly after which comes a profusion of flowers. The nightingales, too, which are there in abundance, not only afford much pleasure by their songs in the gardens, but are also kept tame in the houses, and let out at a small rate to divert such as choose it in the city; so that no entertainments are made in the spring without a concert of these birds. No wonder, then, that Solomon makes the bridegroom speak of the singing of birds; and it teaches us what these birds are, which are expressly distinguished from turtle doves.

Clarke: Sos 2:13 - -- The fig tree putteth forth her green figs - The fig tree in Judea bears double crops; the first of which is ripe in spring. But the tree, as I have ...

The fig tree putteth forth her green figs - The fig tree in Judea bears double crops; the first of which is ripe in spring. But the tree, as I have elsewhere observed, bears figs all the year through, in the climes congenial to it. That is, the fig tree has always ripe or unripe fruit on it. I never saw a healthy tree naked. But in the beginning of spring they grow fast, and become turgid

Clarke: Sos 2:13 - -- The vines with the tender grape - The versions understand this of the flowers of the vine. These were formerly put into the new wine (2 lbs. to ever...

The vines with the tender grape - The versions understand this of the flowers of the vine. These were formerly put into the new wine (2 lbs. to every cask) to give it a fine flavour.

Clarke: Sos 2:14 - -- My dove - in the clefts of the rock - He compares his bride hiding herself in her secret chambers and closets to a dove in the clefts of the rock.

My dove - in the clefts of the rock - He compares his bride hiding herself in her secret chambers and closets to a dove in the clefts of the rock.

Clarke: Sos 2:15 - -- Take us the foxes - That these were ruinous to vines all authors allow. They love the vine, and they are eaten in autumn in some countries, accordin...

Take us the foxes - That these were ruinous to vines all authors allow. They love the vine, and they are eaten in autumn in some countries, according to Galen, when they are very fat with eating the grapes. They abounded in Judea; and did most damage when the clusters were young and tender. It is likely that these are the words of the bridegroom to his companions, just as he was entering the apartment of his spouse. "Take care of the vineyard: set the traps for the foxes, which are spoiling the vines; and destroy their young as far as possible."

Clarke: Sos 2:16 - -- My beloved is mine - The words of the bride on his entering: "I am thy own; thou art wholly mine.

My beloved is mine - The words of the bride on his entering: "I am thy own; thou art wholly mine.

Clarke: Sos 2:16 - -- He feedeth among the lilies - The odor with which he is surrounded is as fine as if he passed the night among the sweetest scented flowers.

He feedeth among the lilies - The odor with which he is surrounded is as fine as if he passed the night among the sweetest scented flowers.

Clarke: Sos 2:17 - -- Until the day break - Literally, until the day breathe; until the first dawn, which is usually accompanied with the most refreshing breezes

Until the day break - Literally, until the day breathe; until the first dawn, which is usually accompanied with the most refreshing breezes

Clarke: Sos 2:17 - -- The shadows flee away - Referring to the evening or setting of the sun, at which all shadows vanish

The shadows flee away - Referring to the evening or setting of the sun, at which all shadows vanish

Clarke: Sos 2:17 - -- The mountains of Bether - Translated also mountains of division, supposed to mean the mountains of Beth-horon There was a place called Bithron, 2Sa ...

The mountains of Bether - Translated also mountains of division, supposed to mean the mountains of Beth-horon

There was a place called Bithron, 2Sa 2:29, on the other side of Jordan; and as the name signifies Partition, it might have had its name from the circumstance of its being divided or separated from Judea by the river Jordan

With this chapter the second night is supposed to end.

Defender: Sos 2:11 - -- Typologically, "the winter" perhaps refers to the long period of Christ's absence, between His ascension and the second coming."

Typologically, "the winter" perhaps refers to the long period of Christ's absence, between His ascension and the second coming."

Defender: Sos 2:12 - -- "Turtle" also means "turtledove." When Christ comes again and establishes His reign of righteousness on earth, it will be like a glorious springtime a...

"Turtle" also means "turtledove." When Christ comes again and establishes His reign of righteousness on earth, it will be like a glorious springtime after a long winter."

Defender: Sos 2:13 - -- The budding of the "fig tree" (Israel) is given by Christ as a sign of His imminent return (Luk 13:6-9; Luk 21:29-31)."

The budding of the "fig tree" (Israel) is given by Christ as a sign of His imminent return (Luk 13:6-9; Luk 21:29-31)."

Defender: Sos 2:15 - -- Evidently both bride and bridegroom here realize there is a need to "take" - that is, "capture" - the little foxes infesting the vineyards before the ...

Evidently both bride and bridegroom here realize there is a need to "take" - that is, "capture" - the little foxes infesting the vineyards before the grapes have ripened. There are "little" things that can come in and destroy even the happiest marriage if they are allowed to remain, just as "little" sins (ingratitude, impatience, etc.) may hurt our relationship with the Lord. Sadly, Solomon himself soon allowed the little sins of political expedience, preoccupation with business affairs and, finally, the greater sins of lust and idolatry, to ruin his idyllic relation with his first love."

TSK: Sos 2:11 - -- Ecc 3:4, Ecc 3:11; Isa 12:1, Isa 12:2, Isa 40:2, Isa 54:6-8, Isa 60:1, Isa 60:2; Mat 5:4; Eph 5:8; Rev 11:14, Rev 11:15

TSK: Sos 2:12 - -- flowers : Son 6:2, Son 6:11; Isa 35:1, Isa 35:2; Hos 14:5-7 time : Psa 40:1-3, Psa 89:15, Psa 148:7-13; Isa 42:10-12, Isa 55:12; Eph 5:18-20; Col 3:16...

TSK: Sos 2:13 - -- fig tree : Son 6:11, Son 7:8, Son 7:11-13; Isa 18:5, Isa 55:10, Isa 55:11, Isa 61:11; Hos 14:6; Hag 2:19; Luk 13:6, Luk 13:7 Arise : Son 2:10; Luk 19:...

TSK: Sos 2:14 - -- my dove : Son 5:2, Son 6:9; Psa 68:13, Psa 74:19; Isa 60:8; Eze 7:16; Mat 3:16, Mat 10:16 that art : Exo 3:6, Exo 4:11-13; Ezr 9:5, Ezr 9:6; Job 9:16;...

TSK: Sos 2:15 - -- the foxes : Psa 80:13; Eze 13:4-16; Luk 13:32; 2Pe 2:1-3; Rev 2:2 tender : Son 2:13, Son 7:12

TSK: Sos 2:16 - -- beloved : Son 6:3, Son 7:10, Son 7:13; Psa 48:14, Psa 63:1; Jer 31:33; 1Co 3:21-23; Gal 2:20; Rev 21:2, Rev 21:3 he : Son 2:1, Son 1:7, Son 6:3

TSK: Sos 2:17 - -- the day : Son 4:6; Luk 1:78; Rom 13:12; 2Pe 1:19 the shadows : Heb 8:5, Heb 10:1 beloved : Son 2:9, Son 8:14 Bether : or, division

the day : Son 4:6; Luk 1:78; Rom 13:12; 2Pe 1:19

the shadows : Heb 8:5, Heb 10:1

beloved : Son 2:9, Son 8:14

Bether : or, division

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per Verse)

Barnes: Sos 2:8-17 - -- The bride relates to the chorus a visit which the beloved had paid her some time previously in her native home. He on a fair spring morning solicits...

The bride relates to the chorus a visit which the beloved had paid her some time previously in her native home. He on a fair spring morning solicits her company. The bride, immersed in rustic toils, refuses for the present, but confessing her love, bids him return at the cool of day. It is a spring-time of affection which is here described, still earlier than that of the former chapter, a day of pure first-love, in which, on either side, all royal state and circumstance is forgotten or concealed. Hence, perhaps, the annual recitation of the Song of Songs by the synagogue with each return of spring, at the Feast of Passover, and special interpretations of this passage by Hebrew doctors, as referring to the paschal call of Israel out of Egypt, and by Christian fathers, as foreshadowing the evangelic mysteries of Easter - Resurrection and Regeneration. The whole scene has also been thought to represent the communion of a newly-awakened soul with Christ, lie gradually revealing Himself to her, and bidding her come forth into fuller communion.

Son 2:8

Voice - Better, "sound."Not a voice, but the sound of approaching footsteps is meant (compare "noise,"Isa 13:4).

Son 2:9

Like a roe - Gazelle (compare Pro 5:19 note). The points of comparison here are beauty of form, grace, and speed of movement. In 2Sa 2:18; 1Ch 12:8, princes are compared to "gazelles."

Wall - The clay-built wall of the house or vineyard of the bride’ s family, different from the strong wall of a city or fortress Son 5:7; Son 8:9-10.

Looketh forth at the windows - The meaning evidently is, that he is looking in at, or through, the window from the outside. Compare Son 5:4 note.

Shewing himself - Or, peering. Some, taking the marginal rendering, imagine that the radiant face of the beloved is thus compared to some beautiful flower entangled in the lattice-work which protects the opening of the window, from where he gazes down upon the bride.

Son 2:10-13

Arise, my friend, my beautiful one, and come away - The stanza begins and ends with this refrain, in which the bride reports the invitation of the beloved that she should come forth with him into the open champaign, now a scene of verdure and beauty, and at a time of mirth and mutual affection. The season indicated by six signs Son 2:11-13 is that of spring after the cessation of the latter rain in the first or paschal month Joe 2:23, i. e., Nisan or Abib, corresponding to the latter part of March and early part of April. Cyril interpreted Son 2:11-12 of our Lord’ s Resurrection in the spring.

Son 2:12

The time of the singing ... - i. e., The song of pairing birds. This is better than the rendering of the ancient versions, "the pruning time is come."

Son 2:13

The vines ... - The vines in blossom give forth fragrance. The fragrance of the vine blossom ("semadar"), which precedes the appearance of "the tender grape,"is very sweet but transient.

Son 2:14

The secret places of the stairs - A hidden nook approached by a zig-zag path. The beloved urges the bride to come forth from her rock-girt home.

Son 2:15

The bride answers by singing what appears to be a fragment of a vine-dresser’ s ballad, insinuating the vineyard duties imposed on her by her brethren Son 1:6, which prevent her from joining him. The destructive propensities of foxes or jackals in general are referred to, no grapes existing at the season indicated. Allegorical interpretations make these foxes symbolize "false teachers"(compare Eze 13:4).

Son 2:16

Feedeth among the lilies - Pursues his occupation as a shepherd among congenial scenes and objects of gentleness and beauty.

Son 2:17

Until the day break - Or, rather, until the day breathe, i. e., until the fresh evening breeze spring up in what is called Gen 3:8 "the cool"or breathing time of the day.

And the shadows flee - i. e., Lengthen out, and finally lose their outlines with the sinking and departure of the sun (compare Jer 6:4). As the visit of the beloved is most naturally conceived of as taking place in the early morning, and the bride is evidently dismissing him until a later time of day, it seems almost certain that this interpretation is the correct one which makes that time to be evening after sunset. The phrase recurs in Son 4:6.

Mountains of Bether - If a definite locality, identical with Bithron, a hilly district on the east side of the Jordan valley 2Sa 2:29, not far from Mahanaim (Son 6:13 margin). If used in a symbolic sense, mountains of "separation,"dividing for a time the beloved from the bride. This interpretation seems to be the better, though the local reference need not be abandoned.

Poole: Sos 2:11 - -- The winter which made the ways in some sort unpassable, and so might seem to hinder or affright thee from coming to me. This winter and the followi...

The winter which made the ways in some sort unpassable, and so might seem to hinder or affright thee from coming to me. This

winter and the following

rain may be understood either,

1. Of worldly tribulations, which he intimates to be past and gone, to wit, so far that they shall not destroy nor hurt the church, but, on the contrary, do her much good, both by multiplying her members, and increasing her graces; and promoting her eternal happiness. Or rather,

2. Of spiritual troubles arising in the minds and consciences of sinners, from a deep sense of the guilt of sin, the justice and wrath of God, the sentence and curse of the law; all which made them afraid to come unto God, and desirous, if possible, to run away from him. But, saith Christ, I have removed this great impediment, God is ready to be reconciled, and therefore cast off all discouragements and excuses, and come unto me.

Poole: Sos 2:12 - -- The flowers appear on the earth: this and the following clauses are here alleged as evidences of the spring time, which in the mystical and principal...

The flowers appear on the earth: this and the following clauses are here alleged as evidences of the spring time, which in the mystical and principal sense seems to signify the day of grace, or the glad tidings of salvation proposed to sinners in the time of the law, by types, and shadows, and promises, but much more clearly and fully in the gospel, and all the discoveries and communications of God’ s grace to mankind in holy ordinances, in the gifts, and graces, and comforts of the Holy Spirit, vouchsafed unto and appearing in believers, as buds and blossoms do in the spring time.

The time of the singing of birds when birds sing most freely and sweetly, as they do in the spring. Or, as the ancient translator’ s render it, of cutting or cropping , not trees, which agrees not with that season, but the flowers, last mentioned, for nosegays, or other uses.

The turtle which changeth its place according to the season, as is observed. Jer 8:7 , and by all other writers, who affirm that it disappears in winter, and appears in the spring, as some other birds also do; but this seems particularly to be mentioned, because it doth not only give notice of the spring, but also doth aptly represent the Spirit of God, which even the Chaldee paraphrast understands by this turtle , which appeared in the shape of a dove, and which worketh a dove-like meekness, and chastity, and faithfulness in believers.

In our land in Immanuel’ s land , as Canaan is called, Isa 8:8 , in the church.

Poole: Sos 2:13 - -- Green figs which it shooteth forth as soon as it doth leaves, in the spring time, Mat 24:32 . A good smell which, though not strong, is pleasant an...

Green figs which it shooteth forth as soon as it doth leaves, in the spring time, Mat 24:32 .

A good smell which, though not strong, is pleasant and grateful, and given by it in the progress of the spring.

Come away: these words are here repeated, to show both the church’ s infirmity and indisposition, which needs so many calls and arguments to press so necessary and advantageous a duty; and Christ’ s tender compassion to her weakness, and fervent desire of converse with her.

Poole: Sos 2:14 - -- My dove so the church is called, partly for her dove-like temper and disposition, because she is chaste, and mild, and harmless, &c.; and partly for ...

My dove so the church is called, partly for her dove-like temper and disposition, because she is chaste, and mild, and harmless, &c.; and partly for her dove-like condition, because she is weak, and exposed to persecution, and given to mourning, as doves are, Isa 38:14 59:11 Eze 7:16 , and subject to many fears, and therefore forced to hide herself in rocks, as it follows, in the clefts of the rock ; where she hid herself, either,

1. For fear of her enemies, whom to avoid she puts herself into the protection of the Almighty. Or,

2. Out of modesty, and a humble sense of her own deformities and, infirmities, which makes her endeavour to hide herself even from her Beloved, as ashamed to appear, in his presence, which is frequently the case of God’ s people, especially after falls into sin. And this sense seems to be favoured by the following words, in which Christ relieveth her against such discouraging thoughts.

In the secret places of the stairs in the holes of craggy and broken rocks, which resemble stairs. So the same thing is here repeated in other words.

Let me see thy countenance be not afraid nor ashamed to appear before me; come boldly into my presence, and acquaint thyself with me.

Thy voice thy prayers and praises.

Sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely thy person and services are accepted by me, and are amiable in my sight.

Poole: Sos 2:15 - -- The Bridegroom gives this charge to his bridemen or friends, whose office it is to attend upon him, and to observe his commands; by whom he understa...

The Bridegroom gives this charge to his bridemen or friends, whose office it is to attend upon him, and to observe his commands; by whom he understands those magistrates and ministers to whom, under Christ, the custody of the vineyards, to wit, the churches, principally belong. These he commands to take the

foxes i.e. to restrain them from doing this mischief.

Us Heb. for us , i.e. at our instance, and for our common good, as this spoiling of the vines was injurious and grievous to them both.

The foxes the disturbers of the vineyard, or the church; seducers or false teachers, who are fitly compared to foxes here, and Eze 13:4 , partly to distinguish them from great tyrants and persecutors, who are compared to wild boars , or other wild beasts , Psa 80:13 , as to lions , 2Ti 4:17 ; and partly for their fox-like qualities and actions, because they are very crafty and deceitful, 2Co 11:13,14 Eph 4:14 , and very mischievous also, Eze 34:2,3 2Ti 4:17 Tit 1:10,11 2Pe 2:2 . He mentions foxes , because these abounded in that country, as is manifest from Jud 15:4 Psa 63:10 Lam 5:18 , &c., but under them he comprehends all noxious creatures, upon the same reason.

The little foxes: this he adds, not as if the great foxes were excused or exempted, but for more abundant caution, to teach the church to prevent errors and heresies in the beginnings of them, before they spread and grow strong and incurable.

That spoil the vines which foxes do many ways, as those who write of them have observed, by gnawing and breaking the little branches and leaves, and the bark, by digging holes in the vineyards, and so spoiling the roots, by eating the grapes, and other ways.

Have tender grapes which gives us hopes of a good vintage, and which are easily spoiled, if great care be not used to prevent it.

Poole: Sos 2:16 - -- My Beloved is mine, and I am his: these are the words of the bride, who having come to him upon his gracious invitation, now maketh her boast of him,...

My Beloved is mine, and I am his: these are the words of the bride, who having come to him upon his gracious invitation, now maketh her boast of him, and of that intimate union and communion which was between them.

He feedeth among the lilies either,

1. He feedeth his flock in sweet and lovely pastures, where there is not only herbage to feed them, but lilies to delight them. Or rather,

2. He feedeth himself, i.e. he abideth and refresheth himself amongst his faithful people, which are compared to lilies, above, Son 2:2 , and Hos 14:5 , as Christ also is here, Son 2:1 .

Poole: Sos 2:17 - -- Until the day break, and the shadows flee away until the morning of that great and blessed day of the general resurrection and judgment, when all the...

Until the day break, and the shadows flee away until the morning of that great and blessed day of the general resurrection and judgment, when all the shadows, not only of ignorance, and sin, and calamity, but even of all ordinances and outward administrations, shall cease, and make way for the immediate enjoyment of my Beloved. And this clause may be joined either,

1. With the foregoing words; and so the sense is, Christ doth and will abide with his church as long as this life and world lasts; which agrees with Christ’ s promises of being with his church to the end of the world, Mat 28:20 . But neither that nor this place imply that Christ will then forsake his people, but only secures God’ s people against that which was the chief, if not only, matter of their fear, to wit, lest Christ should leave them, and cast them off in this life, which, if he did not, they were assured that hereafter they should be

ever with the Lord 1Th 4:17 . For it is well known, and hath been oft observed already, that the word until doth not always exclude the time to come. Or,

2. With the following words,

Turn thou, my Beloved, until the day break & c.

Turn return to me. For although Christ had come to her, and she had gladly received and embraced him, yet he was gone again, as is here implied, and evidently appears from the next following verse; which sudden change is very agreeable both to the nature and method of such dramatical writings and amatorious transactions, and to the state of God’ s people in this world, where they are subject to frequent changes and vicissitudes of Christ’ s withdrawing from them, and returning to them again.

Like a roe or a young hart in swiftness; make haste to help me, for I am ready to faint.

Bether a place in the Land of Promise, possibly the same called Bithron , 2Sa 2:29 , where it seems those creatures were in great abundance, or where they were commonly hunted, and so being pursued, they made all possible haste to escape.

Haydock: Sos 2:11 - -- Winter. The rigour and darkness of the old law give place to that of light and love. (Origen) --- After persecution had ceased, pruning became mor...

Winter. The rigour and darkness of the old law give place to that of light and love. (Origen) ---

After persecution had ceased, pruning became more necessary. (Calmet) ---

The Israelites and the world were redeemed in spring, and the ceremonies of the law were abolished at the same season. (Menochius)

Haydock: Sos 2:12 - -- Pruning. Protestants, "singing of birds. " (Haydock) --- But the former version is better. (Septuagint, Symmachus, &c.) --- Turtle. Which ret...

Pruning. Protestants, "singing of birds. " (Haydock) ---

But the former version is better. (Septuagint, Symmachus, &c.) ---

Turtle. Which returns in spring, Isaias viii. 9. (Calmet) ---

It denotes the preaching of the gospel, (St. Cyril, ador. 15.) or rather the sighs of a holy soul in exile.

Haydock: Sos 2:14 - -- Rock. Wild pigeons retire thither. (Varro, iii. 7.) Greek: Koilen eiseptato petren. (Il. 20. Ser. xlviii. 28.) (Calmet) --- Holy souls seek p...

Rock. Wild pigeons retire thither. (Varro, iii. 7.) Greek: Koilen eiseptato petren. (Il. 20. Ser. xlviii. 28.) (Calmet) ---

Holy souls seek protection in the wounds of their Saviour. (St. Gregory; St. Bernard, ser. lxi.) ---

Wall. In the holy Scriptures, which defend the Church. She is brought to light for the edification of all. (Menochius)

Haydock: Sos 2:15 - -- Foxes. They hurt vines, (Theoc. 5.) and denote false prophets, Ezechiel xiii. 4. (St. Augustine) (Psalm lxxx.) --- For. Hebrew, "and our vines ...

Foxes. They hurt vines, (Theoc. 5.) and denote false prophets, Ezechiel xiii. 4. (St. Augustine) (Psalm lxxx.) ---

For. Hebrew, "and our vines of Semadar," ver. 13. (Calmet) ---

Foxes breed in spring, and greatly infested the country, Judges xv. 4.

Haydock: Sos 2:17 - -- Break. Or "yield a refreshing air," ( aspiret ) in the morning, (Haydock) and evening, when she begs he will return, (Theodoret) as she could not ...

Break. Or "yield a refreshing air," ( aspiret ) in the morning, (Haydock) and evening, when she begs he will return, (Theodoret) as she could not enjoy his company in the day-time, chap. i. 1., and iv. 6. ---

Bether. Or the lower Bethoron, near Jerusalem. These short visits in the night, shew the vicissitudes of comfort and dryness in the most perfect. Those who are still addicted to their passions, and to the world, can have no pretensions to such favours, which amply repay any passing desolation. (St. Bernard, ser. lxxiv.) (Calmet)

Gill: Sos 2:11 - -- For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. A season of the year which keeps persons within doors, makes going abroad unsafe, unpleasant,...

For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. A season of the year which keeps persons within doors, makes going abroad unsafe, unpleasant, and uncomfortable; very unfit for travelling, roads bad, rivers impassable, and journeying very difficult; but now this season being over, and the spring come, the weather fair, and every thing gay and pleasant, it is inviting to be abroad; winter is by some writers r used not for the season of the year, but for a storm or tempest. Thus the winter and rain may be descriptive of the state and condition of Jews and Gentiles before the coming of Christ s, and which then ceased; it having been a stormy dispensation with the one, and a time of darkness and ignorance with the other, Heb 12:18; or rather it may in general represent the state of God's people both before and after conversion; before conversion it is a time of darkness, coldness, barrenness, and unfruitfulness; and which are removed by the powerful and efficacious grace of Christ: and after conversion it is often a winter season with them, through the blustering winds of Satan's temptations; the storms of impending wrath for sin, as they imagine; the nipping blasts of persecution, and sharp and severe afflictions they are at times exposed unto: moreover, they are often in great darkness of soul, clouds interpose between Christ and them; a great deal of coldness attends them, their hearts are frozen up and hard, and no impression made on them by the preaching of the word, or by the providences of God; there is a coolness in their love to God and Christ, his people, ordinances, cause, and interest; great barrenness and unfruitfulness in them, they look like trees in winter, and no appearance of fruit on them; their hands are sealed up from working, and they become indolent and inactive; and by all these fellowship with Christ is greatly interrupted: but, when the spring returns again, light breaks in upon them, and their hearts are melted with a sense of love; they become lively in their frames, and in the exercise of grace, and are fruitful in good works; and enjoy much calmness and serenity, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost: sometimes they think the winter is not over when it is, and fear more storms are behind, even of divine wrath and vengeance, though without reason; since Christ has bore all wrath for them, and has satisfied law and justice, and has delivered them from wrath to come; and he that has done this says, "the winter is past", &c.

Gill: Sos 2:12 - -- The flowers appear on the earth,.... One of the first signs of the spring being come t; and make the season delightful and pleasant; the sun returning...

The flowers appear on the earth,.... One of the first signs of the spring being come t; and make the season delightful and pleasant; the sun returning with its warming influences, herbs and plants are quickened and spring up; fields and meadows, as well as gardens, are covered with a variety of beautiful flowers, which make walking abroad very delightful. By these "flowers" may be meant either the graces of the spirit in the saints, which, when a wintertime with them, seem to be dead, at least are hid; but, upon a return of the sun of righteousness, revive and are seen again: or the saints themselves, when in a flourishing condition, and in the exercise of grace; who may be compared to the flowers of the field for the production of them in the spring, which is a kind of re-creation of them, Psa 104:30; and fitly expresses the renovation of the Holy Ghost, to which the revival of them is owing; and for the fragrancy of them, their persons and services being of a sweet savour through the grace and righteousness of Christ; and for their beauty and ornament to the fields in which they grow, as saints are through Christ in themselves, and to the churches and interest of Christ; and for the gaiety and cheerfulness in which the flowers appear in the spring season, and so a proper emblem of the joy and consolation of the saints; where grace revives, Christ returns, and they are favoured with communion with him. It may not be improper to observe, that this may represent the large conversions of souls to Christ, and the numerous appearance of so many beautiful flowers in the church of Christ in the first ages of Christianity, after a long winter of Jewish and Gentile darkness;

the time of the singing of birds is come; another sign of spring, and suits the Gospel dispensation, in which the churches of Christ, and the members of them, sing the praises of the Lord in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; and particularly young converts, those little birds that sing in warbling notes and tuneful lays the songs of electing, redeeming, calling, justifying, pardoning, and adopting grace, to the glory of God, and to their mutual comfort and edification. Some render it, "the time of the branch" u, of the vine putting forth its branches; or "the time of cutting" w, of pruning vines, of lopping trees, and cutting off unfruitful branches; as in the Gospel dispensation, when the Jewish branches were broken off, and the Gentiles were ingrafted in, and being pruned brought forth more fruit; and this agrees with the season of the year, the spring being the time of cutting and pruning vines x; though this is by some objected to as unseasonable;

and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; so one part of rural pleasures is described by the poet y, not only by the singing of birds of various kinds, but particularly by the note of the turtle; which is a kind of dove that lies hid in the wintertime, or is gone, being a bird of passage, and appears and returns at the spring, when its voice is heard again z; see Jer 8:7; for its voice is never heard in winter, unless on a fine day a; by which may be meant, not the voice of the law, as the Jewish writers b, rather of the Gospel, the joyful sound, which for a while was heard only in the land of Judea, called by way of specialty "our land": but either of the voice of the Messiah himself c, preaching the everlasting Gospel in the land of Israel when here on earth; or of John the Baptist his forerunner; and so Alshech interprets it of Elijah, who was to come before the Messiah, and refers to Mal 4:5. It may design the voice of all the apostles of Christ, and first ministers of the Gospel d; or of the Holy Ghost, as the Targum, who appeared as a dove at Christ's baptism; and whose voice in the hearts of his people, speaking peace and pardon, and witnessing their adoption, causes joy and gladness; or of the church itself, compared to a turtledove for its harmlessness, meekness, chastity, &c. whose voice in prayer and praise is heard, and is acceptable to Christ, Son 2:14.

Gill: Sos 2:13 - -- The fig tree putteth forth her green figs,.... Another sign of spring being come, nay, of its being pretty much advanced, since Christ makes this a to...

The fig tree putteth forth her green figs,.... Another sign of spring being come, nay, of its being pretty much advanced, since Christ makes this a token of summer being at hand, Mat 24:32. Theopompus e speaks of figs in the middle of the spring. This tree puts forth its fruit at once, and does not flower or blossom f, wherefore Hab 3:17 is wrongly translated; See Gill on Hab 3:17, though Arianus g speaks of its flowering: Aben Ezra thinks the word signifies the sweetening of the figs, and so points at the time when they are sweet and eatable. By the "fig tree" may be meant the saints putting forth their grace in exercise on Christ, who may be compared to fig trees for their leaves and fruit, and for the putting forth the latter before the former h; for the fig tree is a tree full of large leaves, which may be an emblem of a profession of religion, and of a conversation agreeably to it, which yet are no covering, only the righteousness of Christ is that, yet ought to be and are ornamental; and for the fruit of it, which is wholesome, pleasant, and delightful, as are the fruits of the Spirit, the fruits of grace and righteousness, fruits meet for repentance, which ought to appear before a profession of religion is made. If the Egyptian fig tree is meant, that is a very fruitful tree; it is said to bear fruit seven times a year, but ripens no other way than by scratching it with iron hooks i; and its wood cut down and cast into water, being dry, sinks, but when thoroughly wet will swim. Saints should bear fruit always, and ever continue to do so, even to old age; nor do any ever become fruitful until their hearts have been pricked and cut by the word of God; and they never grow better, or are more fruitful, than when attended with afflictions and tribulations; when they first enter into the waters of affliction, like Peter, they sink, but, when more used to them, they lift up their heads above them, and bear up with great courage and resolution. By the "green figs" may be meant the beginnings of grace in the soul, some stirrings of affection to Christ, desires of knowledge of him, pantings and breathings after his ordinances, love to his people; all which appear soon, are very imperfect, and, like unripe figs, liable to be shaken off; and it is a miracle of grace that the first impressions of it are not destroyed by the force of corruption and temptation; and it may be observed, that grace in its first appearance, though but small, is not despised, but taken notice of by Christ: yea, he makes use of it as exercised by young converts to stir up old professors, as here the church, to be more active and vigorous in it;

and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell; or "being in flower give a good smell" k, as the word is used in the Targum in Isa 18:5; and that vines do flower appears from the same place, and from Gen 40:10; as well as is observed by naturalists and others l; and these flowers, and not the tender grapes, emit a sweet smell; and, as some say m, not in the vineyards only, but in the country round about; and these are fitly mentioned next to figs, since the black fig is by some called the sister of the vine n. By the vines may be intended distinct congregated churches of Christ, or particular believers; vines are very weak; and cannot bear up of themselves, must be fixed to some place, and be supported by something else; and being supported, will run up a great height, and bring forth much fruit. So saints are weak in themselves, and cannot support themselves; their strength is in Christ, and they are upheld by him, and have their dependence on him; and being supported by him they grow up to the stature of the fulness of Christ; and through their grafting into him, and abiding in him the true vine, bring forth much fruit to the glory of God, and such as is not to be found in others. The wood of the vine is of very little worth or use, Eze 15:2; and yet is very lasting. Pliny o ascribes a sort of an eternity to it. Believers in Christ, however weak and worthless they are in themselves, as are their best works and services, yet being in Christ they shall abide in him for ever, and never perish, but have everlasting life. And by the "tender grapes", or "flowers", may be designed either the graces of the spirit, as before; or rather young converts, the fruit of Christ's vines, the churches, who, though weak and tender, yet are dear to Christ; and when there is a large appearance of them, it is a great encouragement to churches, and promises a glorious vintage. And the "smell" of these vines, with their grapes and flowers, may intend the fragrancy, of believers through the righteousness of Christ on them, and the odour of their graces, as exercised on him; and the sweet savour of their godly conversation, observed by all about them.

Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away; repeated from Son 2:10; which shows sluggishness on the part of the church, that she needed one exhortation after another; and great love on the part of Christ, that notwithstanding this he persists in calling her; and even importunity in him, that he will have no denial p: and it may be observed, that what is entertaining to most of the senses is mentioned to engage the church to arise and go along with her beloved; the flowery fields would be pleasing to her eye, the chirping birds to her ear, the sweet and ripening figs to her taste, and the refreshing odour of the vines to her smell.

Gill: Sos 2:14 - -- O my dove,.... An epithet sometimes used by lovers q, and is a new title Christ gives to his church, to express his affection for her and interest in ...

O my dove,.... An epithet sometimes used by lovers q, and is a new title Christ gives to his church, to express his affection for her and interest in her; and to draw her out of her retirement, to go along with him. The dove is a creature innocent and harmless, beautiful, cleanly, and chaste; sociable and fruitful, weak and timorous, of a mournful voice, and swift in flying; all which is suitable to the church and people of God: they are harmless and inoffensive in their lives and conversations; they are beautiful through the righteousness of Christ on them, and the grace of the Spirit in them; they are clean through the word Christ has spoken, and having their hearts purified by faith; they are as chaste virgins espoused to Christ, and their love to him is single and unfeigned; they cleave to him, are fruitful in grace and good works; and the church being espoused to Christ brings forth many souls unto him in regeneration; saints carry on a social worship and delight in each other's company; they are weak and timorous, being persecuted and oppressed by the men of the world; and mourn for their own sins and others, and often for the loss of Christ's presence; and are swift in flying to him for safety and protection. Under this character the church is said to be

in the clefts of the rock, the usual place where the dove makes its nest, Jer 48:28; or retires to it for safety r. Adrichomius says s, there was a stone tower near Jerusalem, to the south of the mount of Olives, called "petra columbarum", "the rock of the doves", where often five thousand were kept at once, to which there may be an allusion here; or else it may have respect to the place where doves are forced to fly when pursued by the hawk, even into a hollow rock, as described by Homer t; and may be expressive of the state of the church under persecution, when obliged to flee into holes and corners, and caves of the earth; when the Lord is a hiding place to her, in his love, and grace, and power; and particularly Christ is the Rock of his people, so called for height, strength, and duration, and they are the inhabitants of this Rock; and who was typified by the rock in the wilderness, and particularly by that into the clefts of which Moses was put, when the glory of the Lord passed before him: moreover, the clefts of this rock may design the wounds of Christ, which are opened for the salvation of men; and where saints dwell by faith, and are secure from every enemy u. The Ethiopic version is, "in the shadow of the rock", to which Christ is compared, Isa 32:2; and so the Septuagint version, "in the covering of the rock", which is no other than the shade of it. Likewise the church is said to be

in the secret places of the stairs; Christ is the stairs or steps by which saints ascend up to God, have access to and communion with him; and the secret places may have respect to the justifying righteousness of Christ, and atonement by him, hidden to other men, but revealed to them; and whither in distress they betake themselves, and are sheltered from sin, law, hell, and death, and dwell in safety. Though as such places are dark and dusty, and whither the dove, or any other creature, may in danger betake itself, so upon the whole both this and the preceding clause may design the dark, uncomfortable, and solitary condition the church was in through fear of enemies; in which situation Christ addresses her, saying,

let me see thy countenance, or "face"; and encourages her to appear more publicly in, his house and courts for worship, and present herself before him, and look him full in the face, and with open face behold his glory, and not be shamefaced and fearful; not to be afraid of any thing, but come out of her lurking holes, and be seen abroad by himself and others, since the stormy weather was over, and everything was pleasant and agreeable;

let me hear thy voice; in prayer to him and praise of him, commending the glories and: excellencies of his person, and giving thanks to him for the blessings of his grace;

for sweet is thy voice; pleasant, harmonious, melodious, having a mixture of notes in it, as the word signifies; and so exceeds the voice of a natural dove, which is not very harmonious: Herodotus w makes mention of a dove that spoke with a human voice; and such a voice Christ's dove speaks with, and it is sweet; that is, pleasant and delightful to him, who loves to hear his people relate the gracious experiences of his goodness, and speak well of his truths and ordinances; prayer is sweet music to him, and praise pleases him better than all burnt offerings;

and thy countenance is comely; fair and beautiful, and therefore need not cover her face, or hang down her head, as if ashamed to be seen, since she was in the eye of Christ a perfection of beauty.

Gill: Sos 2:15 - -- Take us the foxes,.... Of which there were great numbers in Judea; see Jdg 15:4; these words are directed not to angels, nor to civil magistrates, but...

Take us the foxes,.... Of which there were great numbers in Judea; see Jdg 15:4; these words are directed not to angels, nor to civil magistrates, but to ministers of the word; but whether the words of Christ, or the church, is not easy to determine; some think they are the words of the church, who had hitherto been relating what Christ said to her, and who, having neglected her vineyard, Son 1:6; and now stirred up by Christ to a greater care of it, expresses her concern for its flourishing; and therefore calls upon her attendants and companions, to assist in taking and destroying those which were harmful to it: but rather they seem to be the words of Christ continued; since they not only show the care of his vines, the churches; but express power and authority over those they are spoken to: and perhaps they may be the words of them both jointly; since the church, with Christ, and under him, has a right to stir up her officers to do their work, and fulfil their ministry, they have received of Christ for her service. By foxes may be meant false teachers, to whom the false prophets of old were compared, Eze 13:3; foxes are crafty and subtle creatures, malignant and mischievous, hungry and voracious, full of deceit and dissimulation, are of an ill smell, and abominably filthy; so false teachers walk in craftiness, use good words and fair speeches, and thereby deceive the hearts of the simple; their doctrines are pernicious, their heresies damnable, and they bring destruction on themselves and others; they are hungry after worldly substance, are greedy of it, and can never have enough; devour widows' houses, and make merchandise of men, to enrich themselves; they put on sheep's clothing, transform themselves into angels of light, mimic the voice of Gospel ministers, use their phrases and expressions, that they may not be easily discovered; and are abominable in their principles and practices, and to be shunned by all good men. Now ministers of the Gospel are ordered to take these, to detect them, and refute their errors, and reprove them sharply for them; and, after proper steps taken, to reject them, to cast them out of the vineyards, the churches, and keep them out. Even

the little foxes; heresies and heretics are to be nipped in the bud, before they increase to more ungodliness; otherwise errors, which may seem small at first, soon grow larger and spread themselves, and become fatal to the churches:

that spoil the vines; as foxes do, by gnawing the branches, biting the bark, making bare the roots, devouring the ripe grapes, and infecting all with their noxious teeth and vicious breath x: so false teachers make divisions and schisms in churches; disturb their peace; unsettle some, and subvert others; sap the foundation of religion, and corrupt the word of God; and therefore by all means to be taken, and the sooner the better;

for our vines have tender grapes: or "flowers"; See Gill on Son 2:13. The "vines" are the churches; the "tender grapes", or "flowers", young converts, which Christ has a particular regard unto, Isa 40:11; and these, having but a small degree of knowledge, are more easily imposed upon and seduced by false teachers; and therefore, for their sakes, should be carefully watched, and vigorously opposed, since otherwise a promising vintage is in danger of being spoiled. Christ, in this address, intimates, that not only he and the church, but, he ministers also, had an interest in the vines and tender grapes, as they have; see Son 8:11; and therefore should be the more concerned for their welfare; hence he calls them "ours"; interest carries a powerful argument in it.

Gill: Sos 2:16 - -- My beloved is mine, and I am his,.... These are the words of the church; who, having had such evidences of Christ's love to her, and care of her, ex...

My beloved is mine, and I am his,.... These are the words of the church; who, having had such evidences of Christ's love to her, and care of her, expresses her faith of interest in him, and suggests the obligations she lay under to observe his commands. The words are expressive of the mutual interest had property Christ and his church have in each other: Christ is the church's, by the Father's gift of him to her, to be her Head, Husband, and Saviour; and by the gift of himself unto her, to be her Redeemer and ransom price; and by marriage, having espoused her to himself, in righteousness and lovingkindness; and by possession, he living and dwelling in her, by his Spirit and grace: the church also acknowledges herself to be his, as she was, by the Father's gift of her to Christ, as his spouse and bride, his portion and inheritance; and by purchase, he having bought her with his precious blood; and by the conquest of her, by his grace in effectual calling; and by a voluntary surrender of herself unto him, under the influence of his grace: hence all he is, and has, are hers, his person, fulness, blood, and righteousness; and therefore can want no good thing. Moreover, these words suggest the near union there is between Christ and his church; they are one in a conjugal relation, as husband and wife are one; which union is personal, of the whole person of Christ to the whole persons of his people; it is a spiritual one, they having the same Spirit, the one without measure, the other in measure; it is a vital one, as is between the vine and its branches; and it is a mysterious one, next to that of the union of the three Persons in the Godhead, and of the two natures in Christ; it is an indissoluble one, the everlasting love of Christ being the bond of it, which call never be dissolved; and from this union flow a communication of the names of Christ to his church, conformity to him, communion with him, and an interest in all he has. Likewise these phrases express the mutual affliction, complacency, and delight, Christ and his church have in each other; he is beloved by his church, and she by him; she seems to have a full assurance of interest in him, and to make her boast of him; excluding all other beloveds, as unworthy to be mentioned with him: of whom she further says,

he feedeth among the lilies; which is either an apostrophe to him, "O thou that feedest", &c. thou only art my beloved; or is descriptive of him to others, inquiring who he was, and where to be seen: the answer is, he is the person that is yonder, feeding among the lilies; either recreating and delighting himself in his gardens, the churches, where his saints are, comparable to lilies; See Gill on Son 2:1, and See Gill on Son 2:2; or feeding his sheep in fields where lilies grow: and it may be observed, it is not said, he feedeth on, or feeds his flock with lilies, but among them; for it is remarked y, that sheep will not eat them: or the sense may be, Christ feeds himself, and feeds his people, and feeds among them, as if he was crowned with lilies, and anointed with the oil of them; as was the custom of the ancients at festivals z, thought to be here alluded to by some who read the words, "that feeds"; that is, sups in or with lilies, being anointed and crowned with them. The lily is a summer flower a; the winter was now past, Son 2:11.

Gill: Sos 2:17 - -- Until the day break, and the shadows flee away,.... Which may be connected with Son 2:16; either with the former part, "my beloved is mine", &c. Son 2...

Until the day break, and the shadows flee away,.... Which may be connected with Son 2:16; either with the former part, "my beloved is mine", &c. Son 2:16; and then the sense is, as long as night and day continue, and God's covenant with both stands sure; so long union to Christ, and covenant interest in him, will abide: or with the latter part, "he feedeth among the lilies until", &c. even until his second coming: or with the next clause in this verse,

turn, my beloved; and so is a prayer for Christ's speedy coming to her, and continued presence with her, until the day should break: which may be understood either of the Gospel day made by the rising of Christ, the sun of righteousness, at his first coming in the flesh; when the shadows of the ceremonial law disappeared, Christ, the body and substance of them, being come, and the darkness of the Gentile world was scattered, through the light of the Gospel being sent into it: the words may be rendered, "until the day breathe", or "blow" b; and naturalists observe c, that, upon the sun's rising, an air or wind has been excited, and which ceases before the middle of the day, and never lasts so long as that; and on Christ's, the sun of righteousness, arising with healing in his wings, some cool, gentle, and refreshing breezes of divine grace and consolation were raised, which were very desirable and grateful: or this may be understood of Christ's second coming; which will make the great day of the Lord, so often spoken of in Scripture: and which suits as well with the Hebrew text, and the philosophy of it, as the former; for, as the same naturalists d observe, the wind often blows fresh, and fine breezes of air spring up at the setting as well as at the rising of the sun; see Gen 3:8; and may very well be applied to Christ's second coming, at the evening of the world; which will be a time of refreshing to the saints, and very desirable by them; and though it will be an evening to the world, which will then come to an end, with them there will be no more night of darkness, desertion, affliction, and persecution; the shadows of ignorance, infidelity, doubts, and fears, will be dispersed, and there will be one pure, clear, unbeclouded, and everlasting day; and till then the church prays, as follows:

turn, my beloved; that is, to her; who seemed to be ready to depart from her, or was gone; and therefore she desires he would turn again, and continue with her, until the time was come before mentioned: or, "turn about" e; surround me with thy favour and lovingkindness, and secure me from all enemies, until the glorious and wished for day comes, when I shall be out of fear and danger; or, "embrace me" f; as in Son 2:6; during the present dispensation, which was as a night in comparison of the everlasting day;

and be thou like a roe, or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether; the same with Bethel, according to Adrichomius g; where were mountains, woody, set with trees, full of grass and aromatic plants; and so may be the same with the mountains of spices, Son 8:14; where the Ethiopic version has Bethel; and so that and the Septuagint version, in an addition to Son 2:9; here; see 2Ki 2:23; unless Bithron is meant, 2Sa 2:29; a place in Gilead, beyond Jordan, so called, because it was parted from Judea by the river Jordan: and the words are by some rendered, "the mountains of division or separation" h; which, if referred to Christ's first coming, may regard the ceremonial law, the wall of partition between Jew and Gentile, broke down by Christ, and the two people divided by it, which were reconciled by him; if to his spiritual coming, the same things may be intended by them as on Son 2:9; but if to his second coming, the spacious heavens may be meant, in which Christ will appear, and which now interpose and separate from his bodily presence; and therefore the church importunately desires his coming with speed and swiftness, like a roe or a young hart, and be seen in them; see Rev 22:10.

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Commentary -- Verse Notes / Footnotes

NET Notes: Sos 2:12 Alternately, “the time of singing” or “the time of pruning.” The homonymic root זָמִיר (za...

NET Notes: Sos 2:14 The dove was a common figure for romantic love in ancient Near Eastern love literature. This emphasis seems to be suggested by his use of the term ...

NET Notes: Sos 2:15 The term “vineyard” is also a figure. In 1:6 she used the vineyard motif as a metaphor for her physical appearance, but here it is “...

NET Notes: Sos 2:16 This line may be translated either as “the one who grazes among the lilies” or as “the one who feeds [his flock] among the lilies.&#...

NET Notes: Sos 2:17 Scholars offer three interpretations of her figurative request: (1) The Beloved desires her Lover to embrace her breasts, like a gazelle romping over ...

Geneva Bible: Sos 2:11 For, lo, the ( g ) winter is past, the rain is over [and] gone; ( g ) That is, sin and error is driven back by the coming of Christ, who is here desc...

Geneva Bible: Sos 2:14 O my dove, [that art] in the ( h ) clefts of the rock, in the secret [places] of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sw...

Geneva Bible: Sos 2:15 Take for us the foxes, the ( i ) little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines [have] tender grapes. ( i ) Suppress the heretics while they are y...

Geneva Bible: Sos 2:17 Until the day shall break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a ( k ) roe or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether. ( ...

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Commentary -- Verse Range Notes

TSK Synopsis: Sos 2:1-17 - --1 The mutual love of Christ and his church.8 The hope,10 and calling of the church.14 Christ's care of the church.16 The profession of the church, her...

MHCC: Sos 2:8-13 - --The church pleases herself with thoughts of further communion with Christ. None besides can speak to the heart. She sees him come. This may be applied...

MHCC: Sos 2:14-17 - --The church is Christ's dove; she returns to him, as her Noah. Christ is the Rock, in whom alone she can think herself safe, and find herself easy, as ...

Matthew Henry: Sos 2:8-13 - -- The church is here pleasing herself exceedingly with the thoughts of her further communion with Christ after she has recovered from her fainting fit...

Matthew Henry: Sos 2:14-17 - -- Here is, I. The encouraging invitation which Christ gives to the church, and every believing soul, to come into communion with him, Son 2:14. 1. His...

Keil-Delitzsch: Sos 2:11-13 - -- 11 For, lo! the winter is past, The rain is over, is gone. 12 The flowers appear in the land; The time of song has come, And the voice of the tu...

Keil-Delitzsch: Sos 2:14 - -- Solomon further relates how he drew her to himself out of her retirement: My dove in the clefts of the rock, In the hiding-place of the cliff; Le...

Keil-Delitzsch: Sos 2:15-16 - -- There now follows a cantiuncula . Shulamith comes forward, and, singing, salutes her beloved. Their love shall celebrate a new spring. Thus she wi...

Keil-Delitzsch: Sos 2:17 - -- Shulamith now further relates, in a dramatic, lively manner, what she said to her beloved after she had saluted him in a song: 17 Till the day cool...

Constable: Sos 1:2--3:6 - --II. THE COURTSHIP 1:2--3:5 Perhaps the outstanding characteristic of this first major section of the book is the...

Constable: Sos 2:8-17 - --2. Increased longing 2:8-17 Whereas the setting so far had been Israel, it now shifts to the Shulammite's home that was evidently in Lebanon (cf. 4:8,...

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Introduction / Outline

JFB: The Song of Songs (Book Introduction) The Song of Solomon, called in the Vulgate and Septuagint, "The Song of Songs," from the opening words. This title denotes its superior excellence, ac...

TSK: The Song of Songs 2 (Chapter Introduction) Overview Son 2:1, The mutual love of Christ and his church; Son 2:8, The hope, Son 2:10, and calling of the church; Son 2:14, Christ’s care of t...

Poole: The Song of Songs 2 (Chapter Introduction) OF SOLOMON CHAPTER 2 The excellency of the majesty of Christ, Son 2:1 , and of his church, Son 2:2 . The benefits which the church receives from hi...

MHCC: The Song of Songs (Book Introduction) This book is a Divine allegory, which represents the love between Christ and his church of true believers, under figures taken from the relation and a...

MHCC: The Song of Songs 2 (Chapter Introduction) (Son 2:1-7) The mutual love of Christ and his church. (Son 2:8-13) The hope and calling of the church. (Son 2:14-17) Christ's care of the church, He...

Matthew Henry: The Song of Songs (Book Introduction) An Exposition, with Practical Observations, of The Song of Solomon All scripture, we are sure, is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable f...

Matthew Henry: The Song of Songs 2 (Chapter Introduction) In this chapter, I. Christ speaks both concerning himself and concerning his church (Son 2:1, Son 2:2). II. The church speaks 1. Remembering the...

Constable: The Song of Songs (Book Introduction) Introduction Title In the Hebrew Bible the title of this book is "The Song of Songs." ...

Constable: The Song of Songs (Outline) Outline I. The superscription 1:1 II. The courtship 1:2-3:5 A. The begin...

Constable: The Song of Songs Song of Solomon Bibliography Baxter, J. Sidlow. Explore the Book. 6 vols. London: Marshall, Morgan, and Scott, ...

Haydock: The Song of Songs (Book Introduction) SOLOMON'S CANTICLE OF CANTICLES. INTRODUCTION. This book is called the Canticle of Canticles, that is to say, the most excellent of all cantic...

Gill: The Song of Songs (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO THE SONG OF SOLOMON This book is entitled, in the Hebrew copies, "Shir Hashirim", the Song of Songs. The Septuagint and Vulgate Lat...

Gill: The Song of Songs 2 (Chapter Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO SONG OF SOLOMON 2 Here begins a new colloquy between Christ and his church; in which they alternately set forth the excellencies of...

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