Song of Solomon 8:6
Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.
Song of Solomon 8:6 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Song of Solomon, the speaker is expressing a deep desire to be cherished and valued by their beloved. The imagery of being set as a seal upon the heart and arm signifies a sense of permanence and intimacy in the relationship. Love is compared to death in terms of its strength and enduring nature, suggesting that true love transcends all obstacles and challenges. Jealousy is described as cruel as the grave, highlighting the destructive nature of envy in a relationship. The reference to coals of fire with a vehement flame further emphasizes the intense and passionate nature of emotions involved in love and jealousy. Overall, this verse conveys the power and complexity of human emotions and relationships, reminding us of the importance of cherishing and nurturing love while being aware of the destructive potential of jealousy.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from the Song of Solomon revolves around the idea of a seal, which symbolizes security, ownership, and authenticity. By asking to be set as a seal upon God's heart and arm, the speaker is expressing a desire for a deep, intimate connection with God that cannot be broken. The comparison of love to death emphasizes the enduring strength and power of love, which can transcend even the finality of death. Additionally, the mention of jealousy being as cruel as the grave highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and the potential harm it can cause in relationships. The imagery of coals of fire with a vehement flame suggests the intensity and passion of love, which can both warm and comfort, but also burn and consume. Overall, this verse serves as a vivid portrayal of the profound nature of love, the importance of fidelity, and the consequences of jealousy.
Song of Solomon 8:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
Set me as a seal upon thy heart, As a seal upon thine arm: For love is strong as death; Jealousy is cruel as Sheol; The flashes thereof are flashes of fire, A very flame of Jehovah.
World English Bible
Set me as a seal on your heart, as a seal on your arm; for love is strong as death. Jealousy is as cruel as Sheol. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a very flame of Yahweh.
Douay-Rheims
Put me as a seal upon thy heart, as a seal upon thy arm, for love is strong as death, jealousy as hard as hell, the lamps thereof are fire and flames.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Set mee as a seale on thine heart, and as a signet vpon thine arme: for loue is strong as death: ielousie is cruel as the graue: the coles thereof are fierie coles, and a vehement flame.