How can we apply the joy of Song of Solomon 6:13 in marriage? The Text “Return, return, O Shulammite; return, return, that we may look upon you! Why would you gaze upon the Shulammite as on the dance of Mahanaim?” ‑- Songs 6:13 Understanding the Scene • The husband calls his bride back four times—an eager, affectionate invitation. • “Shulammite” is the feminine form of “Solomon,” signaling oneness and shared identity. • “Dance of Mahanaim” pictures a joyful, graceful celebration witnessed by others. • Joy is public and contagious; their love overflows beyond private moments. Truths About Marital Joy • Joy pursues: repeated “return” shows proactive affection—don’t wait; go after your spouse. • Joy celebrates identity: husband delights in who she is, not merely what she does. • Joy invites participation: love is meant to be seen and shared, reflecting God’s goodness (Psalm 34:8). • Joy is wholehearted: the dance image conveys freedom, movement, and unity, echoing Genesis 2:24. Practical Ways to Live It Out 1. Pursue eagerly • Send a loving text during the day: “Can’t wait to see you—return!” • Meet at the door with a smile and embrace, signaling delight in presence. 2. Speak identity-affirming words • Regularly voice specific traits you admire: “I love your wisdom,” “Your laughter brightens our home” (Proverbs 16:24). • Use shared names or inside terms of endearment that reinforce oneness. 3. Celebrate openly • Dance together in the kitchen, laugh in public, hold hands—let joy be visible (Philippians 4:4-5). • Mark milestones with gatherings that testify to God’s faithfulness in your union (Psalm 115:1). 4. Cultivate shared rhythms • Establish weekly date nights—a recurring “return.” • Pray and read Scripture together, inviting the Lord into the “dance” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). 5. Guard freedom and playfulness • Schedule margin so responsibilities don’t choke spontaneity (Mark 6:31). • Give permission for creativity—sing, picnic, explore, serve others side by side. Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 2:24 — “a man will leave… and be joined to his wife.” • Proverbs 5:18-19 — “rejoice in the wife of your youth… be captivated always.” • Ecclesiastes 9:9 — “Enjoy life with your beloved wife all the days…” • Philippians 4:4 — “Rejoice in the Lord always.” • 1 Peter 3:7 — “live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor.” Closing Encouragement Let the repeated “return” echo through your days. Keep calling, keep celebrating, keep dancing. When husband and wife pursue each other with joyful anticipation, they mirror the faithful love of Christ for His people and invite the world to witness a living picture of the gospel’s delight. |
    |