Interpretation of Song of Solomon 2:7, 3:5, and 8:4
The recurring refrain in the Song of Solomon, "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, 3:5, 8:4 ESV), serves as a significant thematic anchor within the book. This plea, spoken by the Shulammite woman, emphasizes caution and patience in matters of love [3].
The literary context of these verses places them at crucial points in the Song. The first occurrence in 2:7 concludes a section where the beloved describes her lover and their intimate connection, culminating in her desire for their love to unfold naturally [3]. The second instance in 3:5 follows her dream-like search for her beloved and their reunion, reinforcing the idea that such profound love should not be rushed. The final repetition in 8:4 appears after the beloved expresses her longing for her lover to be like a brother, allowing for open affection, and before a discussion of the nature of their love and commitment [1, 2].
The phrase "by the gazelles or the does of the field" acts as an oath, invoking these graceful, wild animals as witnesses to the promise [3]. This imagery contributes to the romantic, pastoral setting of the Song. The core of the adjuration is "that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases" [3]. This suggests a warning against prematurely inciting or forcing romantic love. One interpretation is that this advocates for the preservation of virginity and encourages young women to exercise prudence and not hasten into love [3]. The phrase "until it pleases" implies waiting for the appropriate time and circumstances for love to blossom naturally and mutually [3].
The repetition of this specific warning three times underscores its importance within the Song of Solomon, highlighting a central message about the sacredness and timing of love.
Sources
- Song of Solomon (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Song of Solomon 8:2: 8:2-3 bring you to my childhood home (literally to my mother’s house): Cp. 3:4.”
- Song of Solomon (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Song of Solomon 8 (introduction): The love of the bride to her spouse, and the nature of that love, Sol 8:1-7. The younger sister, Sol 8:8-10. Solomon's vineyard, Sol 8:11, Sol 8:12. The confidence of the bride and bridegroom in each other, Sol 8:13, Sol 8:14.”
- Song of Solomon (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Song of Solomon 2:7: 2:7 Promise me . . . by the gazelles and wild deer: This plea is obviously important to the Song; it is repeated in 3:5 and 8:4, and a promise is requested. When a promise was made, witnesses were needed, and the wild animals were the only witnesses present. These graceful animals suggest a romantic pastoral setting. • not to awaken love until the time is right: As in 8:8-9, virginity is praised. The woman warns the women of Jerusalem to be cautious and not to hurry love.”