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. |