How does the imagery in Song of Solomon 5:14 connect to Proverbs 31:10? Setting the Scene “His arms are rods of gold set with chrysolite. His body is polished ivory decorated with sapphires.” (Songs 5:14) “A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies.” (Proverbs 31:10) Precious Metals and Gemstones: Language of Value • Gold, chrysolite, ivory, sapphires, rubies—each is: – Rare and costly, emphasizing uniqueness. – Durable, pointing to lasting worth. – Beautiful, inviting admiration and delight. • By describing the bridegroom with gold and jewels, the Song highlights his strength and desirability. • By comparing the virtuous wife to rubies, Proverbs elevates her moral excellence above even the most prized stones. Shared Themes of Strength and Purity • Strength: “rods of gold” suggest unbending power; the excellent wife’s value means her household is secure (Proverbs 31:11–12). • Purity: ivory and sapphires evoke spotless, radiant beauty; the noble woman’s character is likewise untainted (Proverbs 31:25). • Glory bestowed: both images affirm God-given dignity in covenant love (cf. Genesis 1:27; Ephesians 5:25–28). Complementary Portraits of Husband and Wife • The groom’s precious form and the wife’s priceless worth mirror God’s design for mutual honor (1 Peter 3:7). • Together they display the splendor of marriage: his strength supports, her virtue enriches (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12). • Each is treasured not merely for external beauty but for qualities that reflect the Lord’s own character—faithfulness, wisdom, and love. Applications for Today • Value one another as God does: see your spouse as rarer than any gemstone. • Cultivate inner excellence; physical beauty fades, but character endures (1 Peter 3:3-4). • Celebrate marital roles that complement rather than compete, honoring both strength and virtue. |
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