Albert Garner - J.C. Howes
SONG OF SOLOMON CHAPTER 2
Verse 1 of Chapter 2 continues the anticipated exchange with the Shulamite referring to her origin in Sharon, a region in northern Galilee, and modestly comparing herself to common wild flowers that grew in abundance in the fertile valleys of her homeland.
Verse 2 expresses the shepherd’s view that the Shulamite may be likened to a lily, but if so, her beauty is as striking as a lily among thorns.
ANTICIPATED TOGETHERNESS
Verses 3-6 appear to describe the Shulamite’s anticipations of intimate experiences of marriage she and her beloved shepherd will share. She is concerned that her beloved not be disturbed until he awakens and in verse 7 charges the daughters of Jerusalem to avoid doing so.
Verse 7 is a refrain repeated at Song of Solomon 3:5; Song of Solomon 8:4 and appears to mark the end of various parts of the song.
ANTICIPATION OF THE SHEPHERD’S COMING
Verses 8-10a are words of the Shulamite as she anticipates hearing the voice and seeing the person of her beloved shepherd when he arrives from the mountains and hills of the homeland. Note that verses 10-15 picture the shepherd as present but his words are being quoted by the Shulamite.
THE SHEPHERD’S PLEA
Verses 10b-14 report anticipated expressions of love and jubilant mood of the shepherd urging the Shulamite to come away with him. His plea is enforced by calling attention to the many evidences of spring - the flowers, singing birds, and putting forth of fig trees and vines.
Verse 15 appears to be a caution against allowing hindering circumstances to spoil the opportunity to realize their dream.
THE SHULAMITE’S RESPONSE
Verses 16-17 express the Shulamite’s conviction that their love for and commitment to each other is total. She looks forward to nights of sharing the intimate expressions of love with her beloved shepherd who pastures his flocks among the lilies in their homeland.