Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Song of Solomon 5:16

His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.

Song of Solomon 5:16 · King James Version

Meaning

One interpretation of the verse "His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem." is that it speaks to the deep affection and admiration that the speaker (traditionally believed to be the bride) has for her beloved. The use of the words "sweet" and "lovely" conveys a sense of pure and genuine admiration for the beloved, highlighting their beauty and charm. By referring to the beloved as both "my beloved" and "my friend," the speaker emphasizes the strong emotional bond and connection they share. The mention of the "daughters of Jerusalem" at the end of the verse suggests that the speaker is addressing a group of people, perhaps seeking validation or recognition for the greatness and specialness of her beloved.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse "His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem," from the Song of Solomon, emphasizes the deep love and affection between the speaker and their beloved. The use of sensory language, such as describing the beloved's mouth as sweet, conveys a sense of intimacy and admiration. The phrase "he is altogether lovely" expresses the speaker's admiration for every aspect of their beloved, highlighting their perfection and beauty.

Furthermore, the reference to the beloved as both "my beloved" and "my friend" underscores the depth and multifaceted nature of the relationship. In a theological context, this verse can be interpreted as symbolizing the love between God and His people, with God being portrayed as the ultimate beloved and friend. The mention of the daughters of Jerusalem serves to emphasize the shared experience and communal nature of love, reinforcing the idea of love as a unifying force that transcends individual relationships.

Song of Solomon 5:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

His mouth is most sweet; Yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.

World English Bible

His mouth is sweetness; yes, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, daughters of Jerusalem.

Douay-Rheims

His throat most sweet, and he is all lovely: such is my beloved, and he is my friend, O ye daughters of Jerusalem.

Geneva Bible (1599)

His mouth is as sweete thinges, and hee is wholy delectable: this is my welbeloued, and this is my louer, O daughters of Ierusalem. O the fairest among women, whither is thy welbeloued gone? whither is thy welbeloued turned aside, that we may seeke him with thee?