How does Song of Solomon 5:5 reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church? Immediate Literary Context The bride has been drowsy (5:2–3) and hesitates to answer her beloved’s knock. When she finally acts, she discovers he has turned away (5:6). The tension between desire and delay frames 5:5 and shapes its typological force in redemptive history. Myrrh: Symbol of Sacrificial Love 1. Myrrh is a burial spice (John 19:39) and a royal fragrance (Psalm 45:8). 2. In Christology it points to Jesus’ incarnation, suffering, and burial, while simultaneously heralding His kingship (Matthew 2:11). 3. The bride’s dripping hands image the Church appropriating the merits of Christ’s sacrifice—His atoning “aroma” (Ephesians 5:2)—as she responds in obedient affection. The Bolt and the Door: Voluntary Reception of the Bridegroom The beloved does not force entry; the bride must “arise.” Parallels: • Revelation 3:20—“I stand at the door and knock.” • John 10:3—“the sheep hear His voice.” Christ does not coerce but lovingly summons. The Church, quickened by the Spirit (Ezekiel 36:27), freely yet responsibly turns the latch of faith and obedience (Romans 1:5). Delayed Response and Spiritual Yearning The momentary hesitation portrays seasons when the Church grows complacent (Revelation 2:4). Absence of felt communion (Songs 5:6) chastens and rekindles pursuit (Isaiah 55:6). The narrative urges vigilance (Matthew 25:6-13) and holiness (Hebrews 12:14). Patristic and Reformation Witness • Origen, Commentary on the Songs 3.12, identifies the myrrh-anointed hands as “good works rich with the death of Christ.” • Bernard of Clairvaux, Sermon 62, links the bolt to the “inner conscience” unlocked by grace. • The Geneva Bible (1560) marginal note on 5:5 reads, “She showeth the great love that the faithful have to Christ.” Continuity across centuries underscores exegetical stability. Ecclesiological Dimensions Corporate: The universal Church “opens” by preaching the gospel and administering the ordinances (Acts 2:42). Individual: Each believer practices continual repentance and faith (Colossians 2:6). Both facets reflect the covenantal marriage motif (Ephesians 5:25-32). Liturgical and Devotional Application Worship saturated with Christ’s atonement cultivates “myrrh-drenched” hands—acts of mercy, evangelism, and holiness (James 2:17). The verse therefore fuels: • Confession—recognizing past lethargy. • Communion—rejoicing in reconciled fellowship. • Commission—serving the world with the fragrance of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). Summary Song of Solomon 5:5 depicts the Church, awakened by grace, responding to the sacrificial, royal Bridegroom. Her myrrh-stained hands represent participation in Christ’s atonement and joyous readiness to embrace Him. The verse calls believers to swift obedience, fragrant holiness, and ever-deepening fellowship with the risen Lord who first loved and sought His bride. |
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