Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Song Of Solomon - Chapter 4 - Verse 1

4:1
Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou hast doves' eyes within thy locks: thy hair is as a flock of goats, that appear from mount Gilead.

Meaning

This verse, found in the Song of Solomon 4:1, is a beautiful expression of admiration and love. In this verse, the speaker is praising the beauty of their beloved, using poetic and symbolic language to convey their feelings. The phrase "Behold, thou art fair, my love" is a simple yet powerful declaration of love and appreciation. The imagery of "doves' eyes within thy locks" speaks to the purity and innocence of the beloved, comparing their eyes to the gentle and peaceful nature of doves. The comparison of the beloved's hair to a flock of goats from mount Gilead is meant to evoke images of strength, abundance, and beauty. Overall, this verse uses vivid and romantic imagery to convey the deep affection and admiration the speaker feels for their beloved.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse from the Song of Solomon is that it symbolically represents the beauty and purity of the beloved. The language used to describe the beloved as fair and having doves' eyes within her locks conveys a sense of innocence, gentleness, and grace. The comparison of her hair to a flock of goats from mount Gilead may seem unusual to modern readers, but it was actually a compliment in ancient times, as the goats from that region were known for their strength, vitality, and beauty.

From a word studies perspective, the use of the term "doves' eyes" is intriguing. In biblical times, doves were often symbols of peace, innocence, and purity. Therefore, describing the beloved as having doves' eyes within her locks could be seen as a way of highlighting her inner beauty and purity. Additionally, the mention of hair being like a flock of goats from mount Gilead may not be meant to be taken literally, but rather as a way of conveying the abundance and luxuriousness of her hair, which was considered a prized attribute in ancient cultures.

American Standard Version

Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; Thine eyes are [as] doves behind thy veil. Thy hair is as a flock of goats, That lie along the side of mount Gilead.
Next Verse