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Book of Song Of Solomon - Chapter 5 - Verse 14

5:14
His hands are as gold rings set with the beryl: his belly is as bright ivory overlaid with sapphires.

Meaning

In this verse, the imagery used to describe the physical attributes of the subject portrays a sense of wealth, opulence, and beauty. The comparison of the hands to gold rings set with beryl signifies preciousness and luxury. The mention of the belly as bright ivory overlaid with sapphires further emphasizes the lavish and extravagant nature of the individual being described. The use of these precious materials and gemstones creates a visual picture of someone who is highly esteemed and adorned with the finest adornments. This verse can be interpreted metaphorically to represent the value and splendor of the subject, highlighting their importance and grandeur.

Theological Overview

These verses from the book of Song of Solomon contain rich imagery that conveys the beauty and majesty of the beloved's body. The mention of gold rings set with beryl on his hands symbolizes strength and wealth, highlighting the preciousness of the beloved. The reference to bright ivory overlaid with sapphires on his belly suggests purity and luxury, depicting the beloved as someone of great worth and beauty. In theological interpretation, some scholars have seen these descriptions as symbolic of the body of Christ, with the gold rings representing the divine nature and the beryl symbolizing the strength and power of God. The ivory overlaid with sapphires can be interpreted as the purity and glory of Christ. Word studies on 'beryl' may reveal its associations with strength and protection, while 'sapphire' often symbolizes wisdom and divine favor in biblical contexts. Overall, these verses offer a glimpse into the depth of the love and admiration expressed in the Song of Solomon, as well as opportunities for theological reflection on the significance of imagery used in Scripture.

American Standard Version

His hands are [as] rings of gold set with beryl: His body is [as] ivory work overlaid [with] sapphires.
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