Song of Solomon 1:13
A bundle of myrrh is my wellbeloved unto me; he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Myrrh was harvested from trees in Arabia and Africa—aromatic resin prized for perfume, medicine, and embalming. Carrying myrrh sachets against the body was common practice among ancient women—the body's warmth released the fragrance throughout the day and night. The intimate imagery of the beloved as myrrh worn constantly near the heart celebrates his precious, pervasive presence in the bride's life and thoughts. Early church fathers immediately connected this to Christ—He is the believer's constant companion, intimate presence, and fragrant delight. The mystics meditated on 'wearing Christ' continually, keeping Him near the heart through prayer and meditation. The Puritans practiced the presence of God—cultivating awareness of Christ's constant nearness. Modern readers see both marital application (keeping the spouse central in thoughts and affections) and spiritual discipline (practicing Christ's presence, making Him the heart's constant treasure).
Questions for Reflection
- Is Christ your 'bundle of myrrh'—constant, fragrant, intimate presence near your heart—or do you only think of Him occasionally?
- How can you cultivate greater awareness of Christ's nearness, making Him your heart's continual delight and treasure?
Analysis & Commentary
The bride continues: A bundle of myrrh is my wellbeloved unto me; he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts. The Hebrew 'tseror hamor' (צְרוֹר הַמֹּר, bundle of myrrh) refers to a small sachet of aromatic myrrh resin worn around the neck, resting against the chest. Women would wear such fragrant bundles for personal enjoyment and to perfume their clothing. The beloved is like this intimate, constant fragrance—always near, continually pleasant, creating lasting delight. The phrase he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts (beyn shadai yalin, בֵּין שָׁדַי יָלִין) employs vivid language of intimate proximity and constant presence throughout the night.
Myrrh carries profound biblical significance: used in anointing oil (Exodus 30:23), burial preparation (John 19:39), and brought by the Magi to Christ (Matthew 2:11). It symbolizes suffering, sacrifice, and death—yet also precious fragrance. The beloved is like myrrh: precious, constantly present, bringing both joy and association with sacrifice. Theologically, Christ is our 'bundle of myrrh'—intimately near, continually fragrant presence, yet associated with suffering love that purchased our salvation. His presence is constant comfort and delight to the believer's heart.