Song of Solomon 6:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Song of Solomon 6:8
8 There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.
Chapter Context
Song of Solomon 6 is a poetic love song chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, love. Written during Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern love poetry often used agricultural and royal imagery.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Song of Solomon and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Song of Solomon 6:8
8 There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.
Analysis
There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number—the bridegroom contrasts the multitude of potential lovers (sixty queens, eighty concubines, countless virgins—categories of women in a royal harem) with his exclusive choice. The numbers (60, 80, innumerable) suggest abundance and possibility. In Solomon's actual life, he eventually had 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:3), but this poetic statement makes a point about exclusive choice amid many options.
The verse sets up the declaration in verse 9—despite all these possibilities, the bridegroom chooses only one. This celebrates the exclusivity and preciousness of covenant love. God could have chosen any nation, but He chose Israel (Deuteronomy 7:6-8). Christ could have countless followers, but He loves each believer with unique, particular affection. The imagery rejects polygamy and harem culture, affirming monogamous covenant as God's design. Love's value comes not from scarcity of options but from deliberate, exclusive choice.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings often maintained large harems as displays of wealth, power, and political alliance (foreign wives sealed treaties). Solomon's eventual 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:1-3) led to spiritual disaster, as foreign wives brought idolatry. The Song's mention of multiple women serves to heighten the significance of choosing one beloved exclusively. This poetic hyperbole contrasts with the biblical pattern of monogamous marriage from Eden (Genesis 2:24) and God's exclusive covenant relationship with Israel. Church interpretation saw the queens and concubines as false religions or worldly attractions, while Christ chooses His one Church. The Reformation emphasized that God's electing love is particular—He doesn't love humanity generically but chooses specific individuals for salvation.
Reflection
- How does God's exclusive choice of you—amid all possible options—increase your sense of being valued and loved?
- What 'queens, concubines, and virgins' (worldly alternatives to Christ) compete for your devotion, and how do you maintain exclusive loyalty?
- How does the biblical pattern of monogamous covenant challenge cultural patterns of non-committed relationships or 'keeping options open'?
Cross-References
- Related: 1 Kings 11:1, 11:3, 2 Chronicles 11:21, Psalms 45:9, 45:14, Revelation 7:9