Song of Solomon 1:12
While the king sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern banquets featured aromatic ointments and perfumes creating pleasant atmosphere. Nard was expensive—imported from the Himalayas, it represented sacrificial devotion. Mary's anointing of Jesus with nard (John 12:3) cost a year's wages, demonstrating costly love. The connection between the Song and Mary's act is striking—both involve expensive nard offered to the beloved king. Early church fathers saw this as the soul offering costly worship to Christ—not perfunctory religion but sacrificial devotion. Bernard of Clairvaux preached that believers should offer Christ their best, not leftovers. The Reformers emphasized that worship should involve both heart and resources—costly discipleship, not cheap grace. Modern readers see both literal application (spouses preparing to please each other) and spiritual reality (offering Christ costly, fragrant worship).
Questions for Reflection
- What 'spikenard'—costly devotion, sacrificial worship, expensive obedience—are you offering to Christ?
- How can you create 'fragrant atmosphere' in your home, church, and relationships through Christ-like character?
Analysis & Commentary
The bride speaks: 'While the king sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof.' The 'king' refers to the bridegroom (Solomon). The Hebrew 'mesibbo' (מְסִבּוֹ, his table/couch) suggests intimate dining or reclining setting. The 'spikenard' (nerd, נֵרְד) was costly aromatic ointment imported from India—the same perfume Mary used to anoint Jesus (John 12:3). The phrase 'sendeth forth the smell' (natan richo, נָתַן רֵיחוֹ) indicates releasing fragrance. The bride's presence and preparation (anointing with expensive perfume) creates fragrant atmosphere in the king's presence. This verse celebrates the bride's desire to please her beloved—preparing carefully, offering her best, creating delight. Spiritually, it represents believers offering costly worship to Christ, creating fragrant atmosphere through devotion, obedience, and love.