What is the meaning of Song of Solomon 5:3? I have taken off my robe—must I put it back on? • In the immediate scene the bride is already resting, her outer garment set aside for the night. Getting up feels inconvenient, even unnecessary. • The reluctance shows how easily comfort can dull desire. Compare the warning in Proverbs 6:10–11 about a “little sleep” leading to loss and the call in Romans 13:11–14 to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” because “our salvation is nearer now.” • The beloved’s knock (Songs 5:2) echoes Revelation 3:20, where the Lord stands at the door and calls for immediate fellowship. To delay is to risk missing a moment of intimacy. • Spiritually, the robe pictures preparedness for communion and service (Luke 12:35). Setting it aside represents letting down one’s guard, becoming spiritually casual. When Christ calls, any hesitation exposes the heart’s misplaced priorities. I have washed my feet—must I soil them again? • In a dusty land, washing the feet meant the day’s duties were over (Genesis 18:4). The bride hesitates because stepping onto the floor will undo her evening cleansing. • John 13:5–10 shows Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, teaching that those already bathed still need daily cleansing of walk and attitude. A pure walk is not maintained by avoiding service but by continual fellowship with the Lord. • The bride fears soiling herself, yet the true defilement is indifference. Matthew 23:25 warns against outward cleanliness while the inside remains untouched. Here, her polished exterior masks a cooling affection. • Psalm 24:3–4 reminds us that “clean hands and a pure heart” are required to ascend God’s hill. Purity is preserved, not lost, in responding quickly to His voice. summary Song of Solomon 5:3 captures a decisive moment: comfort urges the bride to stay put, but love calls her to rise. Literally, she hesitates over her robe and clean feet; spiritually, believers face the same tug between convenience and wholehearted response to the Lord. Scripture urges readiness—clothed in Christ, feet washed yet willing to get dusty again—so that when He knocks, we open without delay and enjoy unbroken fellowship. |
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