Song of Solomon 5:16

His mouth is most sweet; he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.

Study Bible

His mouth is most sweet;
This phrase highlights the intimate and affectionate nature of the relationship between the bride and the bridegroom. In the context of the Song of Solomon, the mouth symbolizes communication and the sharing of love and wisdom. The sweetness of the mouth can be seen as a metaphor for the words and promises of the bridegroom, which are pleasing and desirable. In a broader biblical context, this can be compared to the words of Christ, which are described as sweet and life-giving (Psalm 119:103). The sweetness also reflects the deep emotional and spiritual connection between the lovers, emphasizing the importance of communication in relationships.

he is altogether lovely.
This phrase underscores the complete and perfect nature of the bridegroom. The term "altogether lovely" suggests that every aspect of his being is admirable and desirable. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, physical beauty was often seen as a reflection of inner virtue and character. This description can be seen as a type of Christ, who is considered perfect and without blemish in Christian theology (Hebrews 4:15). The bride's admiration for her beloved mirrors the believer's adoration for Christ, who is seen as the ultimate expression of love and beauty.

This is my beloved,
The declaration "This is my beloved" signifies a personal and exclusive relationship. The term "beloved" is used throughout the Song of Solomon to denote a deep, covenantal love. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, as seen in the Old Testament (Hosea 2:19-20). In the New Testament, this can be paralleled with the relationship between Christ and the Church, where Christ is the bridegroom and the Church is His bride (Ephesians 5:25-27). The use of "my" emphasizes possession and commitment, indicating a bond that is both personal and profound.

and this is my friend,
The addition of "my friend" highlights the multifaceted nature of the relationship. Friendship in biblical times was characterized by loyalty, trust, and mutual respect. This suggests that the relationship is not only romantic but also based on a deep companionship and understanding. In the context of Christian theology, Jesus is often referred to as a friend to believers, offering a relationship that is both intimate and supportive (John 15:15). This dual role of beloved and friend reflects the ideal balance of love and friendship in a relationship.

O daughters of Jerusalem.
The "daughters of Jerusalem" are often seen as a chorus or audience within the Song of Solomon, representing the community or society observing the relationship. Their presence serves to validate and witness the love between the bride and bridegroom. In a broader biblical context, Jerusalem is symbolic of God's chosen people and the spiritual center of Israel. The address to the daughters of Jerusalem can be seen as an invitation to witness and celebrate the love that is both personal and communal. This communal aspect is echoed in the New Testament, where the Church is called to witness and partake in the love of Christ (Revelation 21:2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beloved
The speaker in this verse, traditionally understood to be the Shulammite woman, expressing her deep affection and admiration for her lover.

2. The Lover
The male figure in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as King Solomon, representing the ideal of love and beauty.

3. Daughters of Jerusalem
A group of women addressed by the Shulammite, often seen as a chorus or audience within the account, representing the community or society observing the love account.

Teaching Points

The Sweetness of Words
The phrase "His mouth is most sweet" highlights the importance of kind and loving words in relationships. As believers, we are called to speak with grace and truth.

Desirability in Relationships
"He is altogether desirable" suggests that true love encompasses both physical attraction and deeper emotional connection. In our relationships, we should strive for a balance of both.

Friendship in Love
The beloved refers to her lover as "my friend," indicating that friendship is a vital component of a healthy romantic relationship. Cultivating friendship within marriage strengthens the bond.

Public Declaration of Love
The Shulammite's declaration to the "daughters of Jerusalem" serves as a reminder that love should be celebrated and affirmed publicly, not hidden or ashamed.

Christ as the Ultimate Beloved
In a spiritual sense, this verse can be seen as a reflection of the believer's relationship with Christ, who is our ultimate beloved and friend.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the lover's mouth being "most sweet" challenge us to consider the way we communicate in our relationships?

2. In what ways can we cultivate both physical attraction and emotional connection in our marriages or future relationships?

3. How can we ensure that friendship remains a core component of our romantic relationships?

4. What are some practical ways to publicly affirm and celebrate love in our lives, both in marriage and in our relationship with Christ?

5. How does viewing Christ as our ultimate beloved and friend impact our daily walk with Him and our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:23-24
The intimate relationship between the beloved and her lover echoes the union of Adam and Eve, emphasizing the sanctity and beauty of marital love.

Ephesians 5:25-33
The love described in Song of Solomon can be seen as a reflection of Christ's love for the Church, highlighting the sacrificial and selfless nature of true love.

Proverbs 31:10-12
The description of the beloved as both a lover and a friend aligns with the virtues of a noble wife, who is trustworthy and loving.