Song of Solomon 6:8

There are sixty queens and eighty concubines, and maidens without number,

Study Bible

There are sixty queens
In the context of ancient Israel, a king's harem was a symbol of his wealth and power. The mention of "sixty queens" reflects the grandeur and status of a king, likely Solomon, who is traditionally attributed as the author of this book. Solomon's extensive harem is documented in 1 Kings 11:3, where it states he had 700 wives, princesses, and 300 concubines. This phrase highlights the opulence and political alliances formed through marriage, as queens were often daughters of foreign kings, strengthening diplomatic ties.

and eighty concubines
Concubines in ancient Israel were women who lived with a man but had a lower status than a wife. They were often taken for pleasure, procreation, or political reasons. The mention of "eighty concubines" further emphasizes the king's wealth and the cultural norms of the time. Concubines, while not having the same status as queens, played significant roles in the household and could bear children who might have claims to inheritance, as seen in the story of Abraham and Hagar in Genesis 16.

and maidens without number
The phrase "maidens without number" suggests an innumerable group of young women, possibly serving in the royal court or awaiting selection as wives or concubines. This reflects the abundance and prosperity of the king's reign. In a broader biblical context, the imagery of countless maidens can symbolize the vastness of God's blessings or the multitude of believers, as seen in Revelation 7:9, where a great multitude from every nation stands before the throne of God. This phrase also underscores the idea of beauty and purity, often associated with maidens in biblical literature.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Queens
These are the royal wives of a king, signifying status and authority within the royal household.

2. Concubines
Women who lived with a man but had lower status than his wife or wives. In ancient times, they were often part of a king's harem.

3. Maidens
Young unmarried women, often seen as potential brides or members of a royal court.

4. Solomon
The presumed author and central figure in the Song of Solomon, known for his wisdom and numerous wives and concubines.

5. The Royal Court
The setting of this verse, representing the opulence and complexity of Solomon's reign.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Human Relationships
This verse highlights the complexity and potential pitfalls of human relationships, especially when they deviate from God's original design for marriage.

The Search for True Love
Despite the multitude of relationships, the Song of Solomon emphasizes the search for genuine love and intimacy, which cannot be fulfilled by mere numbers or status.

God's Design for Marriage
Reflect on the biblical ideal of marriage as a monogamous, covenantal relationship, contrasting it with the practices of ancient royalty.

Contentment and Simplicity
In a world that often values quantity and status, this verse challenges us to find contentment and value in simplicity and genuine relationships.

The Role of Women in Scripture
Consider the roles and statuses of women in biblical times and how they relate to God's view of women as equal partners in creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of queens, concubines, and maidens in Song of Solomon 6:8 reflect the cultural and historical context of Solomon's time?

2. In what ways does the biblical ideal of marriage, as seen in Genesis 2:24, challenge the practices described in this verse?

3. How can we apply the principle of seeking genuine love and intimacy in our relationships today, as emphasized in the Song of Solomon?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's relationships about the importance of contentment and simplicity in our own lives?

5. How does the portrayal of women in this verse compare to the depiction of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31, and what can we learn from this comparison?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 11:3
This verse provides context to Solomon's many wives and concubines, highlighting the historical reality of his relationships.

Proverbs 31:10-31
Offers a contrasting view of the ideal woman, focusing on virtue and character rather than status or number.

Genesis 2:24
Establishes the biblical ideal of marriage as a union between one man and one woman, providing a backdrop for understanding the complexities of Solomon's relationships.