How does Song of Solomon 5:13 illustrate Christ's love for the Church?

◄ How does Song 5:13 show Christ's love? ►

Setting the Scene

Song of Solomon 5:13: “His cheeks are like beds of spice, towers of perfume. His lips are lilies, dripping with flowing myrrh.”

Though the Song celebrates marital love, the Holy Spirit also weaves in a portrait of the Messiah and His covenant love for His redeemed people.

Seeing Christ in the Imagery

• Cheeks “like beds of spice, towers of perfume”

– Spice beds were cultivated, guarded, and prized—mirroring the carefully protected, steadfast affection Christ has for His Church (John 10:28–29).

– Perfume evokes an aroma that draws others close (2 Corinthians 2:14–15). Christ’s life, death, and resurrection give off the “fragrance” of salvation that irresistibly attracts believers.

• “His lips are lilies”

– Lilies symbolize purity (Matthew 6:28–29). Every word from Jesus is flawless (John 6:68).

– Psalm 45:2: “Grace is poured upon Your lips.” The bride hears only grace-filled speech from her Bridegroom.

• “Dripping with flowing myrrh”

– Myrrh points to sacrifice (Matthew 2:11; John 19:39). Christ’s lips declare, “It is finished” (John 19:30), sealing redemption through His atoning death.

– The continuous “dripping” underscores an unending fountain of mercy (Hebrews 7:25).

Fragrance of Infinite Sacrifice

Ephesians 5:2 calls Christ “a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

• The spices and perfume show His voluntary gift of Himself.

• The myrrh links the lover’s mouth with the cross and tomb—love proved in blood.

Purity and Grace Poured Out

• Pure lilies + costly myrrh: purity joined to sacrifice.

• His every utterance conveys cleansing, comfort, promise (John 15:3).

• Romans 8:1—His words lift condemnation; intimacy replaces fear.

Invitations for the Bride

Because the Bridegroom’s cheeks are fragrant and His lips overflow with grace:

1. Draw near confidently (Hebrews 4:16).