Passion - Dating & Courtship

Study on Song of Solomon 2:7

Scripture:
"I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or the does of the field, that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases." (Song of Solomon 2:7, ESV)

Song of Solomon, also known as Song of Songs, is a unique book in the Bible, celebrated for its poetic exploration of love and desire between a bride and her bridegroom. Song of Solomon 2:7 stands out as a moment of admonition within this passionate dialogue. This verse addresses the timing and nature of love, urging restraint and patience.

Song of Solomon 2:7 is part of a larger section where the Shulammite woman speaks of her longing for her beloved. The verse appears as a refrain throughout the book (also in 3:5 and 8:4), emphasizing its significance. The imagery and expressions in the surrounding verses evoke a lush, intimate setting, reflecting the deep emotions and desires of the lovers.

Exegesis

1. Admonition to the Daughters of Jerusalem:

• The phrase "I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem" indicates a solemn appeal or charge. The Shulammite woman addresses the "daughters of Jerusalem," possibly representing young women or the community, urging them to heed her advice.
• Song of Solomon 3:5: "I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or the does of the field, that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases."
• Song of Solomon 8:4: "I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases."

1. Metaphor of Gazelles and Does:

• The mention of "gazelles or the does of the field" invokes imagery of delicate and graceful animals, symbolizing the tender and sensitive nature of love.
• These creatures also evoke a sense of natural beauty and purity, reinforcing the idea that love should be approached with care and respect.
• Proverbs 5:19: "A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love."

1. Timing of Love:

• The core of the verse is the admonition "that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases." This highlights the importance of timing in matters of love and desire.
• The phrase suggests that love has its own proper time and should not be rushed or forced. It advocates for patience and waiting for the right moment.
• Ecclesiastes 3:1: "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."

Key Study

1. Patience and Restraint:

• The verse teaches the virtue of patience in relationships. It acknowledges the strong emotions involved but cautions against acting prematurely.
• James 1:19: "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

1. Sanctity of Love:

• Love is portrayed as a sacred and precious emotion that should be respected and handled with care. This elevates the concept of love beyond mere physical attraction to a deeply spiritual and emotional bond.
• Supporting Scripture:
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."

1. Natural and Divine Timing:

• The notion of not awakening love until it pleases aligns with the broader biblical theme of divine timing. God’s plan includes appropriate times for various life events, including the development of romantic relationships.
• Supporting Scripture:
• Galatians 6:9: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Practical Application

1. Guarding Emotional Health:

• Individuals are encouraged to guard their hearts and emotions, ensuring they do not rush into relationships without proper readiness and discernment.
• Proverbs 4:23: "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

1. Encouraging Healthy Relationships:

• The verse serves as a guideline for fostering healthy, respectful relationships that honor both individuals involved and the sanctity of love.
• Ephesians 5:33: "However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."

1. Promoting Community Support:

• By addressing the "daughters of Jerusalem," the verse underscores the role of community in supporting and guiding individuals in their romantic endeavors.
• Titus 2:4-5: "Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God."

Conclusion

Song of Solomon 2:7 provides a profound insight into the nature and timing of love. It emphasizes patience, the sanctity of love, and the importance of respecting its proper timing. By incorporating this wisdom into their lives, believers can foster healthy, respectful relationships that honor God and reflect His divine plan. The verse, supported by related scriptures, offers guidance on navigating romantic relationships with care, patience, and reverence.