What does "Shulammite" reveal about identity and belonging in God's family? The Verse in Focus “Return, return, O Shulammite; return, return, that we may look upon you.” (Song of Songs 6:13) Who Is the Shulammite? • A real, identifiable young woman from Shulem (likely near Shunem in Issachar). • She is consistently portrayed as the bride, cherished and publicly affirmed by the king. • Her personal name is not given; she is known by her place of origin, stressing that ordinary people with ordinary roots can be drawn into royal covenant love. Identity Rooted in Relationship • Her foremost identity is “beloved of the king,” not her social status or geography. • The repeated call “return” shows persistent royal desire—she belongs because the king wants her near. • In the larger biblical picture, God’s people are defined first by divine choice and love (Deuteronomy 7:6–8; 1 John 4:19). Belonging Within God’s Covenant People • The chorus (“that we may look upon you”) represents the believing community welcoming her place among them. • She does not stand outside the covenant family; she is celebrated within it, mirroring how the church gathers around each redeemed sinner (Ephesians 2:19). • Her rural background reminds us that belonging is not earned by pedigree but bestowed by grace (Galatians 3:28–29). Echoes Across Scripture • Ruth the Moabitess—another outsider brought into covenant (Ruth 2:10–12). • Gomer restored to Hosea—love pursuing the unworthy (Hosea 3:1–3). • The prodigal son welcomed home—family identity restored (Luke 15:20–24). All point to one truth: God creates family from those once far off and delights to call them His own. Living This Truth Today • See yourself first as “beloved of the King.” Other labels are secondary. • Welcome every redeemed brother or sister, regardless of background; the chorus belongs to all. • Let the call “return” stir daily repentance and closeness; the King still desires your presence. |
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