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Book of Song Of Solomon - Chapter 1 - Verse 12

1:12
While the king sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof.

Meaning

This verse from the Bible, found in the Song of Solomon, has been interpreted by scholars and theologians in various ways. One common interpretation is that it speaks of the relationship between the speaker and the king, with the spikenard representing the fragrant offering of love and adoration. The act of sending forth the smell of spikenard while the king sits at his table symbolizes the speaker's desire to please and honor the king. It also signifies the beauty and intimacy of their relationship, with the aromatic scent of the spikenard filling the space around them. Some believe that the verse can also be seen as a metaphor for worship and devotion to God, with the king representing the divine presence. In this interpretation, the act of sending forth the smell of spikenard symbolizes the offering of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving to God. Overall, the verse conveys a sense of reverence, love, and intimacy in the context of a royal or divine relationship.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Song of Solomon, the image of the king sitting at his table while the fragrance of spikenard fills the room is rich with theological significance. Spikenard was a costly aromatic oil often used in ancient times for anointing. The use of spikenard in this context symbolizes an act of honor and worship towards the king. The act of anointing was significant in the Hebrew Bible, often signifying consecration and blessing. In this verse, the spikenard sending forth its smell represents the offering of oneself in devotion to the king. This imagery can be understood as a metaphor for our relationship with God, where we offer ourselves as a pleasing aroma to Him through our worship and obedience. The verse may also point to the intimacy and communion we can experience with God as we draw near to His presence. Overall, this verse invites us to consider the depth of our worship and the beauty of offering ourselves as a fragrant offering to the King of Kings.

American Standard Version

While the king sat at his table, My spikenard sent forth its fragrance.
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