Song of Solomon 7:4
Thy neck is as a tower of ivory; thine eyes like the fishpools in Heshbon, by the gate of Bathrabbim: thy nose is as the tower of Lebanon which looketh toward Damascus.
Song of Solomon 7:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Song of Solomon is rich in symbolism and poetic imagery. The comparison of the neck to a tower of ivory suggests strength, beauty, and purity. In biblical times, ivory was considered a precious and luxurious material, so describing the beloved's neck as a tower of ivory highlights her dignity and grace. The mention of the eyes being like fishpools in Heshbon by the gate of Bathrabbim evokes a sense of depth, clarity, and serenity. Fishpools were often used for storing water, so this comparison may symbolize the depth of emotions or the transparency of the beloved's gaze. The nose being compared to the tower of Lebanon looking toward Damascus conveys a sense of prominence, grandeur, and directionality. The tower of Lebanon was a well-known landmark that overlooked the city of Damascus, implying that the beloved's nose is a prominent and majestic feature that leads the way. Overall, this verse beautifully captures the splendor and allure of the beloved, using vivid imagery and metaphor to celebrate her beauty.
Theological Overview
The verse "Thy neck is as a tower of ivory; thine eyes like the fishpools in Heshbon, by the gate of Bathrabbim: thy nose is as the tower of Lebanon which looketh toward Damascus." contains rich imagery that can be explored theologically. The comparison of the neck to a tower of ivory highlights beauty and strength, with ivory symbolizing purity and preciousness. The reference to the eyes being like fishpools in Heshbon suggests clarity and depth, possibly pointing to insight and wisdom. The description of the nose as the tower of Lebanon looking toward Damascus may symbolize vigilance and foresight, as well as connection to distant lands. Overall, these metaphors depict a picture of someone exuding grace, wisdom, and discernment, which can be seen as qualities desired in a virtuous individual. Reflecting on these images can lead to a deeper understanding of the verse and its underlying message.
Song of Solomon 7:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thy neck is like the tower of ivory; Thine eyes [as] the pools in Heshbon, By the gate of Bath-rabbim; Thy nose is like the tower of Lebanon Which looketh toward Damascus.
World English Bible
Your neck is like an ivory tower. Your eyes are like the pools in Heshbon by the gate of Bathrabbim. Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon which looks toward Damascus.
Douay-Rheims
Thy neck as a tower of ivory. Thy eyes like the fishpools in Hesebon, which are in the gate of the daughter of the multitude. Thy nose is as the tower of Libanus, that looketh toward Damascus.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thy necke is like a towre of yuorie: thine eyes are like the fishe pooles in Heshbon by the gate of Bath-rabbim: thy nose is as the towre of Lebanon, that looketh toward Damascus.