The "Charge to the Daughters of Jerusalem" is a recurring theme found in the Song of Solomon, a poetic book of the Old Testament. This charge is a solemn admonition given by the Shulammite woman, the central female figure in the Song, to the "daughters of Jerusalem," who are often interpreted as the young women or maidens of the city. The charge appears in three distinct passages: Song of Solomon 2:7, 3:5, and 8:4.

Biblical Texts:

1. Song of Solomon 2:7 : "O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you, by the gazelles and the does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right."

2. Song of Solomon 3:5 : "O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you, by the gazelles and the does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right."

3. Song of Solomon 8:4 : "O daughters of Jerusalem, I adjure you: Do not arouse or awaken love until the time is right."

Interpretation and Themes:

The repeated charge emphasizes the importance of patience and the proper timing of love. The Shulammite's adjuration to the daughters of Jerusalem serves as a caution against prematurely stirring romantic or sexual desires. The imagery of "gazelles and the does of the field" suggests a natural, gentle, and unforced approach to love, aligning with the broader biblical theme of love being a divine gift that should unfold according to God's timing.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the Song of Solomon is a celebration of love and marriage, often interpreted allegorically as a representation of the relationship between God and His people, or Christ and the Church. The daughters of Jerusalem, as an audience within the poem, represent the community of believers or the collective body of the faithful. The charge underscores the sanctity and seriousness of love, urging restraint and wisdom.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the charge to the daughters of Jerusalem highlights the virtue of chastity and the sanctity of marriage. It reflects the biblical principle that love and sexual intimacy are to be reserved for the covenant of marriage, a view consistent with the teachings found throughout Scripture. The admonition to wait "until the time is right" suggests a divine order and purpose in human relationships, encouraging believers to trust in God's timing and design.

Application for Believers:

For contemporary believers, the charge serves as a reminder of the importance of purity and patience in romantic relationships. It calls Christians to honor God in their relationships by adhering to biblical principles of love and marriage. The charge also encourages individuals to seek God's guidance and wisdom in matters of the heart, recognizing that true love is patient and kind, as described in 1 Corinthians 13.

In summary, the Charge to the Daughters of Jerusalem in the Song of Solomon is a profound biblical exhortation that underscores the importance of waiting for the right time in matters of love, reflecting a deep respect for God's design for human relationships.