Song of Solomon 4:2
Thy teeth are like a flock of sheep that are even shorn, which came up from the washing; whereof every one bear twins, and none is barren among them.
Song of Solomon 4:2 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the comparison of teeth to a flock of sheep that are well-groomed and fertile symbolizes strength, beauty, and abundance. The imagery of sheep that have been freshly shorn and washed conveys a sense of cleanliness and purity. The mention of each one bearing twins and none being barren among them suggests a perfect state of prolificacy and fruitfulness. This verse can be interpreted as a metaphor for the ideal state of health and vitality. The teeth being compared to sheep may also symbolize a sense of unity and harmony among them. It serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of one's physical well-being and maintaining good hygiene. Overall, this verse conveys a message of wholeness, prosperity, and vitality, emphasizing the importance of caring for oneself and being fruitful in all aspects of life.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from Song of Solomon 4:2 is rich with symbolism and imagery. The comparison of the lover's teeth to a flock of sheep that are clean and fruitful speaks to the idea of purity and abundance. In biblical symbolism, teeth are often associated with strength and power, indicating that the lover is strong and capable. The mention of each sheep bearing twins and none being barren points to the idea of fertility and blessing. In a deeper spiritual sense, this verse can be seen as a metaphor for the believer being cleansed and fruitful, ready to bear spiritual fruit in abundance. The imagery of the sheep coming up from washing further emphasizes the concept of purity and renewal, suggesting a sense of cleanliness and renewal in the relationship between the lover and his beloved. Overall, this verse highlights the themes of purity, fertility, and abundance, and invites readers to reflect on the deeper spiritual meanings behind the imagery presented.
Song of Solomon 4:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thy teeth are like a flock [of ewes] that are [newly] shorn, Which are come up from the washing, Whereof every one hath twins, And none is bereaved among them.
World English Bible
Your teeth are like a newly shorn flock, which have come up from the washing, where every one of them has twins. None is bereaved among them.
Douay-Rheims
Thy teeth as flocks of sheep, that are shorn, which come up from the washing, all with twins, and there is none barren among them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thy teeth are like a flocke of sheepe in good order, which go vp from the washing: which euery one bring out twinnes, and none is barren among them.