Song of Solomon 5:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Song of Solomon 5:16
16 His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.
Chapter Context
Song of Solomon 5 is a poetic love song chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, 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 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 5:16
16 His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.
Analysis
The bride concludes her description of her beloved: 'His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.' The phrase 'his mouth is most sweet' (Hebrew 'chikko mamtaqim,' חִכּוֹ מַמְתַקִּים) suggests both his speech (words are sweet, gracious, true) and his kisses (physical intimacy is delightful). The climactic declaration 'he is altogether lovely' (Hebrew 'khullo machamadim,' כֻּלּוֹ מַחֲמַדִּים) literally means 'all of him is desirable/precious'—from the Hebrew root chamad (חָמַד), meaning to desire, delight in, or treasure. Every aspect of the beloved is precious and desirable; there is nothing unlovely about him. The bride then identifies him with two terms: 'my beloved' (dodi, דּוֹדִי) emphasizes romantic love and passion, while 'my friend' (re'i, רֵעִי) highlights companionship, trust, and partnership. This combination presents complete covenant relationship—both passionate love and intimate friendship. The verse teaches that ideal covenant love encompasses total admiration ('altogether lovely'), passionate romance ('beloved'), and deep friendship ('friend').
Historical Context
The wasf (detailed description) in 5:10-16 follows ancient Near Eastern literary conventions but reaches a climax here with comprehensive affirmation: 'altogether lovely.' Every part of the beloved, from head (verse 11) to legs (verse 15), merits praise. The phrase 'altogether lovely' (khullo machamadim) is particularly striking because 'machamad' (desirable thing) appears elsewhere for treasures and precious possessions (2 Chronicles 36:19; Daniel 11:37-38). The beloved is supremely treasured. Combining 'beloved' and 'friend' in marriage echoes Proverbs' wisdom: 'rejoice with the wife of thy youth... let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love' (Proverbs 5:18-19). Early church tradition immediately applied 'altogether lovely' to Christ—the incomparably beautiful Savior who possesses every excellence. Charles Spurgeon preached, 'If all the virtues of the most excellent were bound in one bundle, they would not equal Christ.' The Puritans meditated on Christ as the supreme Friend (John 15:15) and Beloved. Modern readers affirm both marital love's ideal (passion plus friendship) and Christ's supreme loveliness.
Reflection
- In what ways is Jesus 'altogether lovely' to you—is there any aspect of His character, work, or person that you find difficult to treasure and delight in?
- How does the combination of 'beloved' and 'friend' inform your understanding of complete relationship with both your spouse and with Christ?
Cross-References
- Related: Song of Solomon 7:9, Psalms 45:2