Imagery in Song 4:5: love's beauty?
What does the imagery in Song of Solomon 4:5 reveal about love's beauty?

Verse Text

“Your two breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle, grazing among the lilies.” (Songs 4:5)


Observations from the Imagery

• Two breasts – the bride’s physical beauty is affirmed as good and God-given

• Like two fawns – gentle, innocent, soft, and approachable

• Twins of a gazelle – perfect balance and harmony; no flaw or disparity

• Grazing among the lilies – a setting of purity, fragrance, and peace


What the Imagery Reveals About Love’s Beauty

• Tenderness: marital love is meant to be gentle, never harsh (cf. Colossians 3:19)

• Innocence: even in physical intimacy, purity is prized; nothing crude or defiling (Hebrews 13:4)

• Symmetry: love is mutually fulfilling—husband and wife complement one another (Genesis 2:24)

• Restfulness: the fawns are at ease among lilies; true love offers security and calm (Ruth 3:1)

• Delight: the husband openly celebrates his bride’s form; godly marriage welcomes such delight (Proverbs 5:18-19)


Connections to the Larger Biblical Message

• Love is covenantal and self-giving (Ephesians 5:25-28)

• The body is honored, not ignored or exploited (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

• Mutual satisfaction is encouraged (1 Corinthians 7:3-4)

• Earthly marriage foreshadows Christ’s cherishing of His church (Ephesians 5:32)


Takeaway

Song 4:5 paints a picture of love that is gentle, balanced, pure, and joy-filled—an invitation to celebrate God’s good design for marital intimacy while reflecting His greater love for His people.

How does Song of Solomon 4:5 reflect God's design for marital intimacy?
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