Song of Solomon 2:2
New International Version
Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the young women.

New Living Translation
Like a lily among thistles is my darling among young women. Young Woman

English Standard Version
As a lily among brambles, so is my love among the young women.

Berean Standard Bible
Like a lily among the thorns is my darling among the maidens.

King James Bible
As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.

New King James Version
Like a lily among thorns, So is my love among the daughters.

New American Standard Bible
“Like a lily among the thorns, So is my darling among the young women.”

NASB 1995
“Like a lily among the thorns, So is my darling among the maidens.”

NASB 1977
“Like a lily among the thorns, So is my darling among the maidens.”

Legacy Standard Bible
“Like a lily among the thorns, So is my darling among the daughters.”

Amplified Bible
“Like the lily among the thorns, So are you, my darling, among the maidens.”

Christian Standard Bible
Like a lily among thorns, so is my darling among the young women. Woman

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Like a lily among thorns, so is my darling among the young women. W

American Standard Version
As a lily among thorns, So is my love among the daughters.

Contemporary English Version
My darling, when compared with other young women, you are a lily among thorns.

English Revised Version
As a lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Like a lily among thorns, so is my true love among the young women.

Good News Translation
Like a lily among thorns is my darling among women.

International Standard Version
Like a lily among thorns, so is my darling among the young women.

NET Bible
Like a lily among the thorns, so is my darling among the maidens.

New Heart English Bible
As a lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.

Webster's Bible Translation
As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Like a lily among the thorns is my darling among the maidens.

World English Bible
As a lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
So [is] my friend among the daughters!

Young's Literal Translation
So is my friend among the daughters!

Smith's Literal Translation
As the lily between thorns, so is my friend between the daughters.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Groom: Like a lily among the thorns, so is my loved one among the daughters.

New American Bible
Like a lily among thorns, so is my friend among women.

New Revised Standard Version
As a lily among brambles, so is my love among maidens.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Like the lilies among thorns, so is my beloved among the daughters.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Like lilies among thorns, so is my intimate woman among the daughters
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
As a lily among thorns, So is my love among the daughters.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
As a lily among thorns, so is my companion among the daughters.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Bride's Admiration
1I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley. 2Like a lily among the thorns is my darling among the maidens. 3Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my beloved among the young men. I delight to sit in his shade, and his fruit is sweet to my taste.…

Cross References
Psalm 45:13
All glorious is the princess in her chamber; her gown is embroidered with gold.

Proverbs 31:29
“Many daughters have done noble things, but you surpass them all!”

Isaiah 61:10
I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, my soul will exult in my God; for He has clothed me with garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom wears a priestly headdress, as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

Hosea 14:5-7
I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily and take root like the cedars of Lebanon. / His shoots will sprout, and his splendor will be like the olive tree, his fragrance like the cedars of Lebanon. / They will return and dwell in his shade; they will grow grain and blossom like the vine. His renown will be like the wine of Lebanon.

Matthew 5:14-16
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. / Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. / In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Ephesians 5:25-27
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her / to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, / and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless.

1 Peter 3:3-4
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, / but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight.

Revelation 19:7-8
Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready. / She was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure.” For the fine linen she wears is the righteous acts of the saints.

2 Corinthians 11:2
I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. For I promised you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ.

John 15:19
If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Philippians 2:15
so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world

Isaiah 62:3-5
You will be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem in the palm of your God. / No longer will you be called Forsaken, nor your land named Desolate; but you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD will take delight in you, and your land will be His bride. / For as a young man marries a young woman, so your sons will marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so your God will rejoice over you.

Jeremiah 31:3
The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with loving devotion.

Zephaniah 3:17
The LORD your God is among you; He is mighty to save. He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you with His love; He will rejoice over you with singing.”


Treasury of Scripture

As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.

Isaiah 55:13
Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

Matthew 6:28,29
And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: …

Matthew 10:16
Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Jump to Previous
Beloved Brambles Darling Daughters Friend Lily Maidens Thorns Waste
Jump to Next
Beloved Brambles Darling Daughters Friend Lily Maidens Thorns Waste
Song of Solomon 2
1. the mutual love of Christ and his church
8. The hope
10. and calling of the church
14. Christ's care of the church
16. The profession of the church, her faith, and hope














Like a lily among the thorns
This phrase uses vivid imagery to contrast beauty and purity with harshness and danger. The lily is often associated with purity and beauty in biblical literature, symbolizing the beloved's unique and virtuous nature. In the context of the Song of Solomon, the lily represents the bride, who stands out in her purity and grace amidst a world that can be harsh and sinful, represented by the thorns. Thorns are often symbolic of sin and the fallen state of the world, as seen in Genesis 3:18, where thorns and thistles are part of the curse after the Fall. This imagery can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is often referred to as the "Lily of the Valleys" (Song of Solomon 2:1), highlighting His purity and beauty in a sinful world.

is my darling among the maidens
The term "darling" indicates a deep affection and special status, suggesting a unique and cherished relationship. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, marriage and betrothal were significant, and the language here reflects the exclusivity and devotion expected in such relationships. The "maidens" refer to other young women, emphasizing the bride's distinctiveness and the groom's preference for her above all others. This can be seen as a reflection of God's covenant relationship with His people, where He chooses and cherishes them uniquely, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 7:6-8. Additionally, this can be interpreted as a type of the Church, the Bride of Christ, who is set apart and loved uniquely by Christ, as described in Ephesians 5:25-27.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse, often interpreted as Solomon or a representation of Christ, who expresses admiration and love for the Shulammite woman.

2. The Shulammite Woman
The "darling" referred to in the verse, symbolizing purity and beauty amidst a harsh environment.

3. The Maidens
Other women or potential brides, representing the world or those who do not share the same unique qualities as the beloved.

4. Lily
A symbol of purity, beauty, and uniqueness, often used in biblical literature to denote something precious and set apart.

5. Thorns
Represent challenges, sin, or the harshness of the world, contrasting with the purity and beauty of the lily.
Teaching Points
Purity in a Corrupt World
Just as the lily stands out among thorns, Christians are called to live pure and holy lives amidst a world that often opposes God's ways.

Unique Value
The beloved's uniqueness is celebrated, reminding us of our individual worth and the special love God has for each of us.

Endurance Through Trials
The imagery of a lily among thorns suggests resilience and the ability to thrive despite adversity, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in faith.

Divine Perspective
God sees His people as precious and beautiful, even when surrounded by sin and challenges, offering a perspective of hope and encouragement.

Christ's Love for the Church
This verse can be seen as a reflection of Christ's love for His church, highlighting the intimate and cherished relationship between Christ and believers.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Song of Solomon 2:2?

2. How does Song of Solomon 2:2 illustrate Christ's love for the Church?

3. What does "a lily among thorns" symbolize in a believer's spiritual journey?

4. How can we reflect Christ's love in our relationships, as seen in Song 2:2?

5. Connect Song of Solomon 2:2 with Ephesians 5:25-27 on Christ's love.

6. How can we cultivate a "lily among thorns" attitude in daily life?

7. What is the significance of the "lily among thorns" metaphor in Song of Solomon 2:2?

8. How does Song of Solomon 2:2 reflect God's view of love and beauty?

9. Why is the imagery of flowers used in Song of Solomon 2:2?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Song of Solomon 2?

11. What is the significance of the Rose of Sharon?

12. How can the bride be 'asleep' yet her heart is 'awake' in Song of Solomon 5:2, and does this concept align with any known scientific or psychological states?

13. In Song of Solomon 2:11-12, is there archaeological or historical evidence confirming the seasonal details mentioned, or is it strictly poetic imagery?

14. In Song of Solomon 2:15, is there any documented threat from 'little foxes' spoiling vineyards in that region, or is it purely metaphorical?
What Does Song of Solomon 2:2 Mean
Setting within the Song

Song of Solomon 2:1–2 is a two–verse exchange: the bride praises her modest beauty, “I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys” (v. 1), and the groom immediately answers with v. 2. That setting underscores a loving, covenant dialogue—one voice reassuring the other. Compare the back-and-forth nature of Genesis 2:23 (“This is now bone of my bones…”) where Adam celebrates Eve, and Ephesians 5:25–27, where Christ cherishes His bride, the church.


“Like a lily”

• A lily evokes purity, fragrance, and delicate beauty—imagery consistently used for godly loveliness (Hosea 14:5; Matthew 6:28–29).

• The singular flower suggests focus: the groom’s gaze centers on one cherished person, echoing Proverbs 5:18–19, which commends delighting in one’s own spouse.

• Spiritually, Christ singles out His redeemed as spotless (Ephesians 1:4), crediting them with His righteousness.


“among the thorns”

• Thorns first appear after the Fall as a sign of curse (Genesis 3:17–18). They picture a harsh, fallen environment.

• Jesus uses thorns to describe worldly cares that choke life (Matthew 13:22). Thus the lily’s contrast highlights separation from corruption (Philippians 2:15, “shine like stars…in a crooked generation”).

• The line implies protection as well; the lily stands untouched despite surrounding danger, just as believers are “kept by the power of God” (1 Peter 1:5).


“is my darling”

• The word speaks of exclusive, covenant affection. It mirrors God’s declaration in Isaiah 43:4, “Since you are precious and honored in My sight…and I love you.”

• The groom publicly affirms his bride’s worth, modeling marital honor (1 Peter 3:7).

• Typologically, Christ calls His church “beloved” (Romans 1:7), proving His commitment at the cross (Ephesians 5:25).


“among the maidens”

• “Maidens” denotes others who might outwardly resemble the bride. Yet only one is singled out, paralleling Psalm 45:9, where the queen stands at the king’s right hand distinguished from the noble ladies.

• The phrase teaches holy distinction. Believers are “a chosen people” (1 Peter 2:9), standing out from the crowds through God’s election and grace.

• In marriage it reminds spouses to prize one another above all others, reflecting Genesis 2:24’s “leave…and cleave” principle.


Living it out

• Cherish exclusivity: nurture marriage with words and actions that set your spouse apart (Proverbs 31:28–29).

• Cultivate purity: keep your “lily” unstained by guarding eyes, mind, and heart (Job 31:1; Philippians 4:8).

• Rest in Christ’s love: when surrounded by the “thorns” of a broken world, remember you are chosen, protected, and treasured (John 10:28–29).


summary

Song of Solomon 2:2 pictures a single lily rising above a bed of thorns, proclaiming the incomparable worth of the beloved bride. Literally, it teaches husbands and wives to honor one another with exclusive affection. Spiritually, it typifies the Lord’s steadfast love that lifts His redeemed out of a cursed world and declares them precious in His sight.

(2) Among the daughters--i.e., among other maidens.

Verse 2. - As a lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. The king responds, taking up the lovely simile and giving it a very apt and charming turn, "My love is beyond comparison the chief and all around her are not worthy of notice beside her." The meaning is not thorns on the tree itself. The word would be different in that case. Rather it is thorn plants or bushes (choach); see 2 Kings 14:9. The daughters; i.e. the young damsels. The word "son" or "daughter" was commonly so used in Hebrew, the idea being that of simplicity, innocence, and gentleness.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Like a lily
כְּשֽׁוֹשַׁנָּה֙ (kə·šō·wō·šan·nāh)
Preposition-k | Noun - common singular
Strong's 7799: A lily, as a, flower of architectural ornament, a, trumpet

among
בֵּ֣ין (bên)
Preposition
Strong's 996: An interval, space between

the thorns
הַחוֹחִ֔ים (ha·ḥō·w·ḥîm)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2336: Briar, bramble, hook, ring, fetter

is my darling
רַעְיָתִ֖י (ra‘·yā·ṯî)
Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 7474: A female associate

among
בֵּ֥ין (bên)
Preposition
Strong's 996: An interval, space between

the maidens.
הַבָּנֽוֹת׃ (hab·bā·nō·wṯ)
Article | Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 1323: A daughter


Links
Song of Solomon 2:2 NIV
Song of Solomon 2:2 NLT
Song of Solomon 2:2 ESV
Song of Solomon 2:2 NASB
Song of Solomon 2:2 KJV

Song of Solomon 2:2 BibleApps.com
Song of Solomon 2:2 Biblia Paralela
Song of Solomon 2:2 Chinese Bible
Song of Solomon 2:2 French Bible
Song of Solomon 2:2 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Song of Solomon 2:2 As a lily among thorns so (Song Songs SS So Can)
Song of Solomon 2:1
Top of Page
Top of Page