Song of Solomon 2:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Song of Solomon 2:6
6 His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.
Chapter Context
Song of Solomon 2 is a poetic love song chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, 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 13-17: 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 2:6
6 His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.
Analysis
His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me. This tender verse describes intimate physical closeness. The Hebrew 'semolo tachat leroshi vimino techabbekeni' (שְׂמֹאלוֹ תַּחַת לְרֹאשִׁי וִימִינוֹ תְּחַבְּקֵנִי) pictures the beloved cradling the bride's head with his left hand while his right arm embraces her. The positioning suggests reclining together—perhaps at a feast (following verse 4's banqueting house) or in rest. The left hand 'under my head' provides support and protection, while the right hand's embrace expresses affection and security.
This verse celebrates covenant love's physical tenderness—strong yet gentle, protective yet intimate. The bride rests securely in the beloved's arms, supported and embraced. The dual action (supporting and embracing) models complete care: meeting practical needs while expressing affectionate love. Spiritually, this represents believers resting in Christ's strong yet tender care—He upholds (left hand supporting) while drawing near in intimate fellowship (right hand embracing). The imagery anticipates Jesus's promise: 'Come unto me... and I will give you rest' (Matthew 11:28), and the Father's embrace of the returning prodigal (Luke 15:20).
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern banquets involved reclining on cushions or couches, making the posture described here natural for intimate dining or rest. The left-right distinction may reflect handedness convention—the left hand provides foundation/support while the dominant right hand performs active embrace. The imagery would resonate with original readers familiar with reclining customs. Early church fathers saw this as the soul resting in God's embrace—secure in His supporting grace (left hand) and experiencing His intimate love (right hand). Bernard of Clairvaux preached extensively on resting in Christ's arms through contemplative prayer. The Puritans emphasized that believers find rest not through frantic activity but through trusting repose in Christ's finished work and faithful care. Modern readers see both marital application (spouses providing physical affection, security, and tenderness) and spiritual reality (resting in Christ's unfailing support and intimate presence).
Reflection
- How do you experience resting in Christ's 'embrace'—His left hand supporting you and His right hand drawing you near in intimate fellowship?
- In marriage, how can you provide both support (meeting practical needs) and embrace (expressing tender affection) for your spouse?
Cross-References
- Related: Jeremiah 32:41, Zephaniah 3:17