Song of Solomon 2:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Song of Solomon 2:15
15 Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.
Chapter Context
Song of Solomon 2 is a poetic love song chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, discipleship. 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 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 2:15
15 Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.
Analysis
The beloved speaks: 'Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.' The 'little foxes' (shualim qetanim, שֻׁעָלִים קְטַנִּים) were destructive pests damaging vineyards by eating tender grapes before harvest. The command 'take us' (echez-lanu, אֶחֱזוּ־לָנוּ) means catch or capture them. The reference to 'our vines' and 'tender grapes' suggests the couple's relationship (vineyards frequently symbolize intimacy in the Song). The verse warns against small threats that damage growing relationships—minor irritations, unresolved conflicts, neglected communication. 'Little foxes' aren't dramatic crises but subtle erosions. The verse teaches vigilance: protect covenant love from small but destructive influences. Spiritually, it warns against tolerating 'little sins' that damage relationship with God.
Historical Context
Palestinian vineyards faced constant threat from foxes and jackals that damaged vines and ate grapes (Judges 15:4-5; Nehemiah 4:3). Farmers vigilantly protected crops, especially during ripening season when grapes were vulnerable. The Song uses this agricultural reality metaphorically: relationships require protection from destructive influences. Early church fathers applied this to spiritual vigilance—guarding hearts against subtle temptations that damage faith. The 'little foxes' became proverbial for small sins tolerated but ultimately destructive. The Puritans emphasized careful examination of conscience, confessing even 'small' sins before they multiplied. Modern application includes both marital wisdom (address small conflicts before they grow) and spiritual discipline (don't tolerate 'little' sins).
Reflection
- What 'little foxes'—small conflicts, irritations, or neglected issues—are damaging your marriage or close relationships?
- What seemingly minor sins are you tolerating that may be 'spoiling the vines' of your spiritual vitality?
Cross-References
- Related: Song of Solomon 2:13, 7:12, Psalms 80:13, Luke 13:32, Revelation 2:2