What does "honey and milk" symbolize in Song of Solomon 4:11? Verse in Focus “Your lips, my bride, drip sweetness like the honeycomb; honey and milk are under your tongue, and the fragrance of your garments is like the scent of Lebanon.” (Songs 4:11) Literally Beautiful, Spiritually Rich • Solomon delights in the bride’s kisses and conversation. • “Honey and milk” capture two qualities at once: – Honey — sweet pleasure. – Milk — wholesome nourishment. • Together they picture love that is both delightful and life-sustaining. Why Honey? • Symbol of pleasure and desirability (Proverbs 24:13). • God’s Word is “sweeter than honey” (Psalm 19:10; Psalm 119:103). • Honey from the comb is unprocessed, pure, overflowing—mirroring pure, untainted affection. Why Milk? • First food of infancy—basic, sustaining, essential (1 Peter 2:2). • Associated with prosperity in the promised land, “a land flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:8). • Speaks of purity and abundance. Combined Meaning in the Marriage Setting • Her words and kisses taste both sweet and nourishing, showing that true marital intimacy brings joy and wellbeing. • The groom experiences more than momentary thrill; he is strengthened by her presence. • Intimacy as God designed blends pleasure with provision, delight with durability. Christ and His Church • While the poem celebrates literal marital love, Scripture also allows a foreshadowing of Christ’s bond with His people (Ephesians 5:31-32). • Honey: the surpassing sweetness of redemption and fellowship with Christ. • Milk: the sustaining grace and truth believers receive from Him (John 1:16). • The church’s praise, prayers, and witness become pleasing to the Lord—“under your tongue” ready to be offered. Echoes Across Scripture • Genesis 43:11—Jacob sends “balm, honey” as gifts, showing value and blessing. • Proverbs 16:24—“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” • Isaiah 55:1—invitation to “buy milk” without cost, picturing free grace. • Ezekiel 3:3—God’s word in the prophet’s mouth tasted “as sweet as honey.” Living It Out • Cultivate speech that is both sweet and strengthening—truth spoken in love. • Cherish marital intimacy as God’s good gift, meant to refresh and build up both husband and wife. • Receive and share the gospel—the ultimate honey and milk that delights the heart and nourishes the soul. |
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