ml_tn/tn_SNG.tsv

98 KiB
Raw Permalink Blame History

1ReferenceIDTagsSupportReferenceQuoteOccurrenceNote
2front:introan3g0

Introduction to the Song of Songs

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Song of Songs

  1. The bride longs for the bridegroom to arrive (1:12:7)
  2. The bridegroom praises the woman he loves (2:83:5)
  3. The bridegroom arrives and praises the bride (3:65:1)
  4. The bride longs for the bridegroom (5:26:9)
  5. The bridegroom praises the beauty of his bride (6:18:4)
  6. Final thoughts about love between a man and a woman (8:514)

What is the Song of Songs about?

The Song of Songs is a poem or a series of poems that celebrate love and intimacy between a man and a woman. Jews traditionally have interpreted the book as a picture of Gods love for his people Israel. In the same way, many Christians interpret it as a picture of love between Christ and his bride, the church of all believers.

Who wrote the Song of Songs?

The first verse of the book (“The Song of Songs, which is Solomons”) gives the idea that King Solomon of Israel wrote it. However, people have interpreted this verse in different ways, so not everyone is persuaded that Solomon wrote it.

How should the title of this book be translated?

This book is traditionally titled “Song of Songs,” which means the very best song, or “Song of Solomon.” It may also be called “Songs of Love,” “Great Poems of Love,” or “The Love Songs of Solomon.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What place do the descriptions of sexual behavior have in the Song of Songs?

The Song of Songs approves of sexual behavior expressing love between a husband his wife.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

How many characters are in the Song of Songs?

The two main characters in this book are the man and the woman, who love each other. The woman also speaks to a group of women called the “daughters of Jerusalem,” and these women make comments. However, it is possible that the group of women is not real and the woman is only imagining them.

Some interpreters believe there may be more characters than these, but this is not certain. The ULT and UST versions recognize only the man, the woman, and the group of women.

What are the lines about people speaking?

The Song of Songs is a poem that shows the thoughts and words of a man, a woman, and the womans friends. Throughout the poem, the author does not identify the speakers and their audience. So to help readers understand the poem, some translations attempt to identify the speaker and the audience. It is not always certain who the speaker is, so sometimes translations disagree about who is speaking.

Before each speech, the ULT identifies the speaker and the audience like this: “The woman speaking to the other women,” “The woman speaking to the man,” “The man speaking to the woman,” or “The woman speaking to herself.” Translators are encouraged to include these ways of identifying the speaker and the audience, and to format them differently from the scripture text. The translators should also include a note explaining that these explanations are not actually part of the scripture.

How should one translate the Song of Songs if the readers will view certain terms as coarse, vulgar, or improper?

Readers might consider many images or forms appearing in the Song of Songs as improper when translated. The translator should try to avoid offensive language if possible, by using expressions that will not cause offense. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

How do I translate metaphors and similes in this book?

There are many metaphors and similes in this book. These figures of speech are often unclear. If they have sexual meanings, figures of speech describing feelings or emotions are often used to avoid offense by hiding their meaning. However, since their meanings are often unclear, ambiguity in translation is encouraged. You can translate the words as they are written in order to avoid committing to a specific meaning. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

31:introxrm20

Song of Songs 01 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Kisses

The kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Love and affection

This chapter is centered on the feelings of love, affection, and attraction. Different cultural standards may make translation difficult and the translator may use euphemisms to avoid offending people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphors

In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“I am dark”

In the ancient Near East, rich people usually had lighter skin because they did not need to work outside in the sun. This young woman had to work out in the sun, and her skin became darker than it was when she was younger.

41:1fna4rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry0

See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]

51:1qbe20

“The Best Song” or “The Most Excellent Song”

61:1r5ns0

Possible meanings are “which is about Solomon” or “which Solomon composed.”

71:2j5xq0

The first part of the book begins with this verse.

81:2nze70

“I enjoy having you near me more than I enjoy drinking wine”

91:3si360

“The oils that you put on your body”

101:3d9r70

“smell wonderful”

111:3z9t3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Perfume has a good smell that spreads as the air moves. The name is either a metonym for (1) the persons reputation, what other people think of him. Here the speaker says that people always think that the hearer is a good person, or (2) the person himself. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

121:4v83trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

“The word “you” refers to the man and so is singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

131:4gec8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“Pull” or “Drag.” Here the woman described as being like a captive who is willing to follow her captor. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

141:4ty2prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “we” refers to the young woman together with the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

151:4isr6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns0

The woman speaks of herself as if she were more than one person. Many versions change the pronoun to “I” as the UST does. Other versions present these as the words of the womans friends speaking about either the woman or the man. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

161:4at7l0

“because of you”

171:4geq40

“let us praise”

181:4ag8r0

“Women who adore you are doing as they should do”

191:5ez2x0

“My skin is dark, but I am still beautiful” or “Even though my skin is dark, I am beautiful”

201:5rbb3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The nomadic tribes in Kedar used black goat skins to build their homes. The woman is comparing her skin to these tents. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

211:5dc13rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Solomon produced beautiful curtains either for his own palace or for the Temple. She says that her skin is beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

221:6thz7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole0

This exaggeration for “burned” or “made black” refers to the sun changing her skin from light to dark. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

231:6fz9h0

“My half-brothers.” These brothers probably had the same mother as the woman but not the same father.

241:6v86f0

“made me take care of the vineyards”

251:6w18krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman compares herself to a vineyard. Alternate translation: “but I have not been able to take care of myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

261:7f9hirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The soul is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “I love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

271:7v54w0

“graze your flocks”

281:7f5eb0

“have your flock lie down”

291:7v6rsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion0

The woman asks this question to emphasize that she has a closer relationship to the man than other women do. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Tell me so that I will not need to wander around among the flocks of your companions when I am looking for you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

301:7bq95rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“who goes all around.” She does not want to have to look for the man. Perhaps she is afraid other men will think she is a prostitute looking for business. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

311:7b5520

“your friends” or “your co-workers”

321:8nky40

“you who are the most beautiful of all women”

331:8al9c0

“follow along behind the flock”

341:8i8sl0

marks of the hooves of the flock on the ground

351:8fis90

“graze your young goats” or “let your young goats eat”

361:9v2yv0

The man continues speaking to the woman.

371:9gw76rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The Jews of those days considered horses beautiful, and the Pharaohs horses would have been the most beautiful he could find. The man considers the young woman beautiful. Alternate translation: “My love, you are as beautiful as any of Pharaohs chariot horses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

381:9l3q70

“you whom I love”

391:9zyj50

“the horses that pull Pharaohs chariots”

401:10u7h9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

These ornaments could be (1) jewels hanging from a band around the head or (2) earrings or (3) a metaphor for her long hair. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

411:11dza7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns0

The man speaks as if he were many people. Some versions change this to singular “I.” Other versions take these to be the words of the womans friends. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

421:11bp6l0

“with spots of silver”

431:12zt7d0

“sat eating his special meal.” This probably refers to one of the couches on which people would lie around a table at a banquet. You could translate using the common word for what people do with their bodies when they eat special meals.

441:12ur660

an oil that people got from the expensive nard or spikenard (valerian plant with small pink or white flowers) and used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor.

451:12lp8f0

“gave off its good smell”

461:13vc5vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Women would place a small bag or pouch of myrrh on a necklace so it would lie between their breasts and they could enjoy its pleasant fragrance. This woman enjoys having her beloved close to her. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy having a bag of myrrh … breasts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

471:13bzs70

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”

481:13f8y8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism0

If this phrase would offend your readers, you could use a euphemism. Alternate translation: “close to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

491:14zh75rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Henna flowers have a fragrance that people enjoy. The woman enjoys her beloved. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy the smell of clusters of henna flowers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

501:14a6jk0

flowers from a small desert tree that people used as a perfume

511:15x2d50

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”

521:15m1140

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9

531:15fb4xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

Possible meaning are (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the womans eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. Alternate translation: “you are very gentle” or (2) the man is speaking of the womans white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes as being like the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

541:16sbi40

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”

551:16km290

Use the word in your language that describes a good-looking man.

561:16x3pr0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

571:16q43erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

This speaks of the lush plants as if they were a bed. Alternate translation: “lush plants are what we lie down on to sleep” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

581:16xed80

plants that are green, moist, and grow abundantly

591:17v14zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman describes the forest as though it were a house in which they were lying down. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

601:17q6r80

Possible meanings are (1) “beams” refers to large logs used to support everything above the walls and “rafters” refers to the large pieces of wood to which the roof is attached or (2) “beams” refers to the rafters and “rafters” refers to the strips attached to the beams, onto which the builders attached the roofing materials.

611:17c3e5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown0

Cedars were large and strong trees. The word translated “firs” is a general term for trees like cedars but smaller. If cedar and fir trees are unknown in your area, you could use general terms for the tallest and strongest trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

622:introu8uv0

Song of Songs 02 General Notes

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

Women are compared to flowers in this chapter. This metaphor may describe a womans beauty and delicacy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Euphemisms

It is possible that some of the metaphors used in this chapter are actually euphemisms. These euphemisms would refer to sex or the physical love between a husband a wife. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

632:1bw25rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry0

See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]

642:1cne2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

652:1ni5p0

the name of a land that is flat, has no trees, and grows many different kinds of grasses and flowers

662:1vve6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

672:1nt8f0

a sweet smelling flower that grows in places where there is much water. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:1-2.

682:1e9ke0

flat areas between mountains and near water

692:2ibi6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

A flower is much more beautiful than a thorn bush. The man thinks the woman is much more beautiful than the other women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

702:2bi450

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9.

712:2y9bu0

“the other young women”

722:3xz7yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

People enjoy the fruit of an apricot tree, but the trees of the forest do not bear fruit. The woman enjoys being with the man, but not with the other young men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

732:3yr6x0

a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.”

742:3wf4u0

The Hebrew word here refers to land where trees grow for which people have no use.

752:3q7kl0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

762:3pii3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman finds great joy and comfort in being so near to the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

772:3b5airc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman enjoys eating sweet fruit, and she enjoys being near to the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

782:4ift60

Possible meanings are (1) the very large room where the king would serve many people large meals with wine or (2) a small booth in a vineyard where the man and woman could be alone together.

792:4rp8qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

Possible meanings are (1) the banner is a metonym for a military escort. And, the military escort is a metaphor that represents the mans love which gives courage to the woman who was nervous to enter the large room where the king served many people. Alternate translation: “but his loving protection guided me and gave me courage” or (2) the woman knew that the man wanted to make love to her from the way he looked at her. Alternate translation: “he looked at me lovingly” or “when he looked at me, I knew he wanted to make love to me” or (3) they made love. Alternate translation: “he lovingly covered me” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

802:5uxb20

“Return my strength” or “Give me energy”

812:5khc10

“by giving me raisin cakes to eat.” Raisin cakes were cakes made of dried grapes pressed together.

822:5gs2a0

“support me by giving me apricots” or “help me by giving me apricots”

832:5y4qyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman speaks of feeling weak because her love is so strong as if love were a kind of sickness. Alternate translation: “because my love is so strong that I feel feeble” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

842:6m6ys0

“left arm … right arm”

852:6fq8w0

“holds me”

862:7l67brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

“young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

872:7n4wqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

Although the daughters of Jerusalem could not hear her, the woman speaks to them as if they could hear saying that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

882:7sz5c0

These are animals that look like deer and move quickly.

892:7nt790

female deer

902:7w94r0

“that live in the countryside.” This was land that has not been farmed.

912:7ekc3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification0

Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

922:7fz3jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet0

If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

932:8aay20

The second part of the book begins here. It is not clear whether the woman is speaking to herself or to the daughters of Jerusalem.

942:8j2nl0

Possible meanings are (1) “Listen carefully to what I am about to say.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully, or (2) “Listen so you can hear him coming.”

952:8rn510

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

962:8dm9e0

The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.

972:8fr67rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“leaping on the mountains, running quickly on the hills.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 9) coming quickly toward her over rough ground. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

982:9l5ni0

The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.

992:9f2lurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Gazelles and young stags move quickly over rough ground. The woman imagines the man coming as fast as he can to be with her. You could translate using animals in your language that people think of as fast. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1002:9kq5f0

This is an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “the gazelles” as in Song of Songs 2:7.

1012:9qbs90

“a young male deer”

1022:9s6z40

“listen carefully” or “what I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.

1032:9umf50

“on the other side of our wall.” The woman is in a house and the man is outside the house.

1042:9be2wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The word “our” refers to the woman and the other people in the house with her. If she is speaking to herself, it is inclusive, but if she is speaking to the daughters of Jerusalem, whether she is referring to herself and her companions or to herself only in plural, as in “We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate” (Song of Songs 1:4), it is exclusive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1052:9kf9u0

“he stares in through the windows”

1062:9s9xt0

“he peeks through the lattice”

1072:9z1bl0

a cover for a window or some other entrance that someone has made by weaving long strips of wood together. Lattices have holes that people can look through.

1082:10hl120

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”

1092:10pah10

“Get out of bed, my love”

1102:10fff70

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9

1112:11yv910

“Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.

1122:11eyh90

In winter it is too cold and wet to make love outside, but the cold, wet time has passed.

1132:11e6580

Winter is the cold time of year when plants do not grow and people prefer to stay inside their houses. You could use the term in your language for that time of year.

1142:11f4hz0

In Israel it only rains during the winter. The rain here is cold and unpleasant, not the refreshing rain of the hot season.

1152:12wfw30

“People can see flowers”

1162:12j8f30

“all over this land”

1172:12sv720

for cutting off branches from a plant so that it will produce more fruit or look better

1182:12x3li0

“for birds to sing”

1192:12zmw4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive0

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people can hear the sound of doves” or “the doves are cooing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1202:13mk2yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification0

The tree is spoken of as if it were actively causing its fruit to ripen. This is a collective singular and can be translated as a plural. Alternate translation: “The figs on the trees are becoming ripe” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1212:13ef3j0

“vines are flowering” or “vines have flowers”

1222:13xhn30

The word “they” refers to the blossoms on the vines.

1232:13wjr70

“their sweet smell”

1242:13m4mt0

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9

1252:14a7lp0

The man is speaking.

1262:14wv7qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the womans face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. Alternate translation: “My beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1272:14eju10

large cracks in the side of mountain rocks large enough for people to hide in

1282:14afg50

“the steep rocks on the sides of the mountains”

1292:14bhl60

Some versions translate this as “your appearance” or “your form” or “what you look like.”

1302:15pu8lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

This is plural, as if the woman is speaking to more than one man, but most versions translate who she is speaking to as the man, so you could translate this as singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1312:15xns5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

These animals look like small dogs and were often used in love poetry to represent eager young men who would spoil a young woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1322:15v31mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

The words “us” and “our” could possibly be (1) exclusive, referring to the woman herself, as in Song of Songs 1:4, or (2) inclusive, referring to the woman and the man, or (3) exclusive, referring to the woman and the rest of her family. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1332:15dac90

Another possible meaning is “jackals.” A jackal is a type of thin wild dog with long legs.

1342:15wl95rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Foxes spoil or destroy vineyards by digging holes and eating vines and grapes. This could be a metaphor for young men who spoil young women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1352:15r16krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

This implies that the vineyard is healthy and the grapes have appeared, but they are not ready for harvest. This could be a metaphor for a young lady ready for marriage and bearing children. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:13. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1362:16zb2r0

“My beloved belongs to me”

1372:16lxy40

“I belong to him”

1382:16n6c3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 17) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking (Song of Songs 2:1-2). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1392:16x5db0

sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in Song of Songs 2:1.

1402:17b3kg0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

1412:17p2uq0

the part of the day when the sun is rising

1422:17lz3yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman describes the shadows as though they were running away from the light of the sun. Alternate translation: “the shadows disappear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1432:17d8mw0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:9.

1442:17vlw30

an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in Song of Songs 2:7.

1452:17l8dz0

an adult male deer

1462:17ia1r0

“rocky mountains” or “rough mountains”

1473:introt72h0

Song of Songs 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Longing

This chapter describes a feeling of longing, or the waiting in anticipation of the one you love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Metaphors

In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1483:1l1kv0

“I had a strong desire to be with him … loves, but he was not there”

1493:1hu3urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the womans love for the man than “my beloved” (Song of Songs 1:14). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1503:2uyu70

“walk through the city”

1513:2x9ki0

The word “squares” indicates the center area of a town where streets or roads come together. It is often an area where people sell items, a market, and a place where people come together to talk.

1523:2afu90

“will to look for”

1533:3rdd50

men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe

1543:3b9j20

“who were walking around the city on the walls”

1553:3pab8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the womans love for the man than “my beloved” (Song of Songs 1:14). See how you translated this in Song of Songs 3:1. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1563:4p5k20

“the room for sleeping”

1573:4ri8erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

This is a metonym for her mother. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1583:5a3y10

Translate this verse as in Song of Songs 2:7.

1593:5t61grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

“young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

1603:5qw1mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

Although the daughters of Jerusalem are not there to hear her, the woman is telling them that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

1613:5b4r50

animals that look like deer and move quickly.

1623:5ruq70

female deer

1633:5n2aq0

“that live in the countryside.” This refers to land that has not been farmed.

1643:5cm9rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification0

Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1653:5dbf9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet0

If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1663:6e1ly0

The third part of the book begins here. It begins with a description of sixty men carrying Solomons bed up from the wilderness to Jerusalem.

1673:6y8wr0

The group of people is traveling from the wilderness to Jerusalem. They must go up in order to reach Jerusalem because the wilderness is low in the Jordan valley and Jerusalem is high in the mountains.

1683:6z3w10

Many versions translate this “Who is that.”

1693:6tjf4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The dust looked like smoke from far away because the people raised much dust in the air as they traveled. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1703:6w7kr0

“with the sweet smell of myrrh and frankincense”

1713:6bf7frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis0

The words “perfumed with” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “perfumed with all the powders sold by merchants” or “and with the sweet smell of all the powders that merchants sell” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1723:6sy9j0

a fine dust made by crushing something solid

1733:7ldh80

“Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully. The speaker now discovers the answer to the question in verse 6.

1743:7e4uw0

This refers to a bed with a cover that can be carried from one place to another.

1753:7rd7drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet0

These two phrases refer to the same sixty people. The second phrase clarifies that the “warriors” are “soldiers of Israel.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1763:7u16s0

men who fight

1773:8sbd80

The description of sixty men carrying Solomons bed up from the wilderness to Jerusalem, begun in Song of Songs 3:6, continues.

1783:8mm7crc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

A description of the bed itself begins in verse 9. You could use words in your language that show that this is background information. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1793:8v2yx0

“can fight battles well”

1803:8z9n40

“so that he can fight against”

1813:8jqy9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns0

The abstract noun “terrors” is a metonym for evil people who frighten others by attacking them. Alternate translation: “evil people who attack others at night” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1823:9nnm60

This is a chair or couch for important people to sit or lie on. It rests on long poles that people can use to carry it

1833:10f5mjrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background0

The description of the bed itself that began in Song of Songs 3:9 continues. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1843:10w2at0

The word “its” refers to King Solomons sedan chair.

1853:10xnj40

The word “posts” here refers to pieces either made of silver or made of wood covered with silver that hold up the tent of cloth around his chair.

1863:10rr690

“The inside of it was”

1873:10apj80

Possible meanings are (1) “with love,” indicating that the women made the sedan beautiful in a special way to show their love for Solomon, or (2) “with leather.”

1883:11i9610

“you young women who live in Zion”

1893:11sj760

“look at King Solomon.” The word “gaze” refers to look at someone or something for a long time, usually with strong emotional feeling.

1903:11tf1d0

“wearing the crown”

1913:11ei7zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The word “heart” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “the day on which he truly rejoiced” or “the happiest day of his life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1924:intror3aw0

Song of Songs 04 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Beauty

The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Metaphors

In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

“My sister, my bride”

The woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.

1934:1rg3frc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry0

See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]

1944:1m3g6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

One possibility is that the man is speaking of the womans white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes, the shape of a dove. Another possibility is that the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the womans eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:15. Alternate translation: “You are very gentle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1954:1z6f70

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9.

1964:1pnn4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Goats in Israel were usually dark in color. The womans hair was probably dark. You may need to specify that the goats were dark or even use another simile that the reader will understand that refers to something dark and beautiful. People thought of Mount Gilead as beautiful and fertile. The speaker considered the woman beautiful and ready to become the mother of his children. If you remove the simile of the goats, you may have to remove the simile of the mountain as well. Alternate translation: “Your hair is as dark as storm clouds above a fertile land” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1974:2bdg1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The womans teeth are white. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1984:2cj59rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive0

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a flock of ewes whose wool people have cut off” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1994:2wc12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

The ewes are coming up out of the water. Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2004:2jw1wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lambs usually look like one another. Each of the womans teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2014:2vl9d0

Each of the womans teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth.

2024:2sb140

lost a loved one who has died

2034:3h2in0

The man continues to praise the woman.

2044:3t9kfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Scarlet is a beautiful red color, and scarlet thread was very expensive. The womans lips were red. Alternate translation: “are a deep red like scarlet thread” or “are red and very beautiful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2054:3v1ae0

a dark red color that is very similar to the color of blood

2064:3q1mk0

“is beautiful”

2074:3j2a3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the womans cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2084:3y47i0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:1.

2094:4th270

The man continues to praise the woman.

2104:4i3qtrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

No one knows if this was a real tower. A tower is a tall, slender building, and saying that David built it implies that it was beautiful. The man considered the womans neck long and slender and so beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your neck is long and beautiful like the tower of David” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2114:4v4ae0

“that David built”

2124:4cq2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Women had necklaces that covered their entire necks with rows of decorations. The man compares these rows of decorations with the rows of stone on the tower. Alternate translation: “that has many rows of stone” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2134:4c4nkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The man compares the decorations of the womans necklace with shields hanging on the tower. The necklace probably went around her neck many times. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2144:4wgq3rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers0

“1,000 shields.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2154:4swd30

“all of the shields belong to mighty warriors”

2164:5f8qi0

If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it.

2174:5ea9jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The man implies that the womans breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2184:5wd7y0

the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time

2194:5gu860

an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in Song of Songs 2:7.

2204:5p33d0

“eating plants among the lilies.” While it is clear that the man “grazing among the lilies” is a metaphor for making love (Song of Songs 2:16), it is not clear what these words refer to. It is best to translate them literally.

2214:5bb930

sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in Song of Songs 2:1.

2224:6ks1d0

The man continues to praise the woman.

2234:6y1xu0

Translate similar wording in this line as you did the line in Song of Songs 2:17.

2244:6re83rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The “mountain of myrrh” and “hill of frankincense” are metaphors for the womans breasts (Song of Songs 1:13). Alternate translation: “I will lie close to your breasts, which are like mountains that smell like myrrh and frankincense” or “I will lie close to your breasts, which smell very sweet” or “I will go to the sweet-smelling mountains” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2254:6bm4n0

“the mountain made of myrrh” or “the mountain that has myrrh growing on it”

2264:6ekc10

“the hill where there are clouds of smoke from burning frankincense in the air”

2274:7wt7k0

“Every part of you is beautiful” or “All of you is beautiful”

2284:7l1xq0

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9.

2294:7ci960

“you have no blemish”

2304:8v9ndrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The man continues to speak to the woman. He speaks of them not being free to make love as if they were in a wild, dangerous, foreign place. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2314:8h4yw0

“away from Lebanon”

2324:8j8s20

This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his sons wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife.

2334:8m2kmrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

the name of a mountain north of Israel (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2344:8ir9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

the name of a mountain near Amana and Hermon. Some people think that this refers to the same mountain as Hermon. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2354:8ybd20

places where lions and leopards live, like caves or holes in the ground

2364:9v3al0

The man continues to speak to the woman.

2374:9d7n7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

Possible meanings of this idiom are (1) “My heart now belongs completely to you” or (2) “I strongly desire to make love to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2384:9vdf7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2394:9k4ah0

This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his sons wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:8.

2404:9d83s0

“heart. All you have to do is look at me once or show me just one jewel.” Both the womans eyes and her jewelry attract the man to her.

2414:9laj20

This necklace probably went around her neck many times (Song of Songs 4:4).

2424:10wbn50

The man continues to praise the woman.

2434:10g6qt0

“Your love is wonderful”

2444:10v1gyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2454:10ibb80

This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his sons wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9.

2464:10td9x0

“Your love is much better than wine.” See how you translated a similar phrase in Song of Songs 1:2.

2474:10ts8krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis0

The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “how much better is the fragrance of your perfume than the fragrance of any spice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2484:10wzb40

See how you translated these words in Song of Songs 1:3.

2494:10r5ni0

dried plants or seeds that have a good smell or taste

2504:11fw88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for (1) the sweet taste of the womans kisses or (2) the womans words. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2514:11vc6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Because “milk and honey” is a common phrase in the Bible, you should translate literally. Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for (1) the sweet taste of the womans kisses or (2) the womans words. Milk is a metaphor for luxury, owning many things that help people enjoy life. When the woman kisses the man, he enjoys life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2524:11nyc90

“the smell of your clothes is like the smell of Lebanon.” Many cedar trees grew in Lebanon. Cedar trees smell very good, so Lebanon would have smelled sweet and fresh.

2534:12sks30

The man continues to praise the woman.

2544:12whp4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9. Alternate translation: “My dear” or “My darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2554:12nrw60

This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his sons wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9.

2564:12j45urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“is a garden that no one can enter.” The garden is a metaphor for the woman, and the lock is a metaphor for her still being a virgin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2574:12i5nbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“a spring with a cover on it.” The spring or well is a metaphor for the woman, and the cover is a metaphor for her being a virgin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2584:13uvg6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism0

branches or channels of rivers, a clear euphemism for the female body part. If any reference to this would be offensive, translate it as a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “You” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2594:13i3mi0

a place where many trees grow together

2604:13eji60

“with the best kinds of fruits”

2614:13q9380

plants that give oil that people used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:14.

2624:13dju50

small desert trees that people used as a perfume. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:14.

2634:14dxj90

a spice that comes from the dried parts from the yellow thread in the center of a certain flower

2644:14ujr70

a reed with a pleasant smell that people used to make anointing oil.

2654:14w1cm0

a spice made from the bark of a tree that people used for cooking

2664:14kx8c0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13.

2674:14bm3m0

a type of large plant that had a very sweet smell

2684:14p6460

“all the best spices”

2694:15t9yh0

The man continues to praise the woman.

2704:15z2anrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“You are a spring in a garden.” A garden spring gives sweet, clean water that people enjoy drinking. The man enjoys being close to the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2714:15t9ch0

water that is good to drink

2724:15zl7c0

Because Lebanon had mountains covered with trees, the streams from Lebanon were clean and cool.

2734:16jv5grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification0

The woman speaks to the north wind and the south wind as though they were people. Alternate translation: “I wish the north wind and south wind would come and blow” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2744:16x71g0

“North wind, start blowing”

2754:16l273rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The garden is a metaphor for her body, which she has covered with sweet-smelling oils (Song of Songs 4:14). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2764:16kdi90

“may send out their good smells”

2774:16lqh1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman is inviting the man to make love to her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2784:16dp460

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

2794:16mbn70

“wonderful fruit”

2805:introkdw40

Song of Songs 05 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Verses 2-7 describe a dream the woman had.

Special concepts in this chapter

Beauty

The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphors

In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“My sister, my bride”

The woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.

2815:1zka3rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry0

See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]

2825:1m5750

It is clearly the womans lover who is speaking.

2835:1f2qrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

2845:1tgd7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2855:1psq40

This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his sons wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9.

2865:1lgr1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

These are all metaphors for the man enjoying the womans body (Song of Songs 1:13, Song of Songs 2:4, Song of Songs 4:11, and Song of Songs 4:14). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2875:1sq9d0

plants that have a strong smell or taste

2885:1i16qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Eating and drinking are metaphors for making love. Alternate translation: “Make love … make love … make love until you are fully satisfied” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2895:2a7v6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism0

The fourth part of the book begins here. The young woman uses euphemisms to describe her dream so that it can be interpreted in two different ways: (1) the woman describes a dream about a night when the man came to visit her at her house; and (2) the woman describes a dream about starting to sleep with the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

2905:2biy3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

The heart is the center of thought and feeling. Alternate translation: “but I could think clearly” or “but I knew what I was feeling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2915:2tk430

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

2925:2qjv8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

Possible meanings are (1) literal, “Open the door for me,” or (2) metaphorical, “Let me make love to you.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2935:2rx38rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:9. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2945:2d52k0

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9.

2955:2c27j0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:14.

2965:2gaj10

“my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one”

2975:2yh2r0

drops of water or mist that form as the night becomes cool

2985:2d3gtrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis0

The words “is wet” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “my hair is wet with the nights dampness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2995:3tr8wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations0

This is what the woman thought to herself when she heard the man speak. (Song of Songs 5:2). This could be translated with the woman saying that this is what she was thinking, or the woman could just explain the situation and her thoughts as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I thought to myself, I have taken off my robe … dirty?’” or “I had taken off my robe and I did not want to put it on again. I had washed my feet and I did not want to get them dirty.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3005:3am4r0

thin linen clothing that people wore on their skin

3015:3g6z2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion0

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to put it on again.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3025:3r5cmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism0

While the word “feet” can be a euphemism for private parts, this probably refers to literal feet. The woman seems more likely to want to make love than to want to refrain from lovemaking because she has just bathed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3035:3h4w30

This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to get them dirty.”

3045:4w3ffrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism0

Possible interpretations are (1) literal, the lover reaches into the house through a hole in the door in order to open the door or (2) euphemisic, they have begun to make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3055:4hqn50

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”

3065:4nns10

“door lock”

3075:5w3k2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Possible meanings are (1) literal, the young woman got out of bed in order to let the man into the house, or (2) metaphorical. Alternate translation: “I prepared myself to make love with my beloved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3085:5q3qxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism0

While these may be euphemisms for the womans and mans bodies, it is best to translate literally. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3095:5ycr10

“with liquid myrrh”

3105:6vgj40

The woman continues to describe her dream.

3115:6b7qk0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13.

3125:6z8narc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The heart is a metaphor for the person, and sinking, going down, is a metaphor for becoming weak or sad. Alternate translation: “I was very sad” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3135:7a9yk0

men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 3:3.

3145:7rqq40

“who were walking around the city on the walls.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 3:3.

3155:7v79f0

found the woman

3165:7zhf30

“beat me” or “hit me”

3175:7q2vt0

“injured me”

3185:7euu80

“the men who guard the walls”

3195:7h38e0

a garment that people wore over the other clothing on their upper body when they went outdoors in public

3205:8czu70

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:7.

3215:8j8ubrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

“young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:7. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

3225:8w1ulrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion0

The woman uses a question to introduce what she wants the daughters of Jerusalem to tell her beloved. Alternate translation: “my beloved, this is what I want you to say to him: tell him that” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3235:8v5m3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

She loves the man so strongly that she feels sick. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3245:9kr5i0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover”

3255:9eap50

“you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:8.

3265:9vbc60

“What makes your beloved better”

3275:9rfp30

“and causes you to have us take this oath”

3285:9zp430

the oath in Song of Songs 5:8

3295:10qb4q0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”

3305:10xuy2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

This phrase refers to his complexion. Alternate translation: “has radiant and ruddy skin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3315:10za1u0

“is completely healthy” or “is pure.” The man has skin that does not have any problems.

3325:10rgj80

a healthy color of the skin that is brownish red

3335:10hms2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“the best of 10,000.” Alternate translation: “better than anyone else” or “no one else is like him.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

3345:11s23zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The mans head is as precious to the woman as the purest gold. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3355:11m1w4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

a bird with very black feathers (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3365:12pn5r0

The young woman continues to describe the man.

3375:12m6e7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

Translate “eyes are like doves” as in Song of Songs 1:15. Possible meanings are (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the woman considers the mans eyes beautiful because the way the man looks at her makes her think he is gentle. Alternate translation: “His eyes are gentle like doves” or (2) the woman is speaking of the mans white eyeballs or the shape of his eyes, the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3385:12knr8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Birds that the Israelites considered gentle sitting beside a gently flowing stream are a metaphor for a gentle person. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3395:12xp2d0

“gently flowing water”

3405:12tr46rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Milk is a metaphor for the whiteness of the doves. Alternate translation: (1) “doves that are white like milk” or (2) milk is a metaphor for the white part of the mans eyes. Alternate translation: “his pupils are like doves bathing in white milk” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3415:12qe85rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

His eyes are beautiful. Jewels that a craftsman has carefully put in place are beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3425:13p7dj0

The young woman continues to describe the man.

3435:13ip4jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

This explains that his cheeks are like beds of spices because they both give off wonderful smells. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3445:13mtt8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. Spices give people pleasure. The mans body gives the woman pleasure. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3455:13mem20

“that give off wonderful smells.”

3465:13a4hurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman probably compares his lips with lilies because they are beautiful and smell wonderful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3475:13t4f10

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:16.

3485:13x8c2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“that drip with the best myrrh.” His lips are moist and have a wonderful smell like myrrh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3495:14hq440

The young woman continues to describe the man.

3505:14nl6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“His arms are cylinders of gold that have jewels all over them.” The woman uses this image to say that his arms are beautiful and precious. The first readers would have understood this as a metaphor for the male body part (Song of Songs 5:3), but this would be difficult to bring out in translation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3515:14bg51rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“his belly is smooth ivory that has sapphires all over it.” The woman uses this image to say that his belly is beautiful and precious. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3525:14k5ga0

the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make smooth and shiny pieces of art.

3535:14ws920

valuable stones that are either (1) blue or (2) clear and either blue or golden

3545:15c8k30

The woman continues to describe the man.

3555:15i1xzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Marble and gold are strong and beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3565:15juu10

a very strong stone that has many different colors and that people polish to make very smooth

3575:15z75crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

“he looks like Lebanon.” Lebanon was a very beautiful area with many mountains and cedar trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3585:16jk4b0

The young woman continues to describe the man.

3595:16sc8prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The mouth is a metonym for either (1) the mans sweet kisses or (2) the sweet words that he says. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3605:16w3vr0

“every part of him is lovely” or “all of him is lovely”

3615:16pi1a0

The word “This” refers to the man that the woman has just finished describing. Alternate translation: “That is what the one I love is like, and that is what my friend is like”

3625:16zd7b0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

3635:16r6zcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

“young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:7. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

3646:introfa9a0

Song of Songs 06 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Beauty

The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Metaphors

In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3656:1z4sfrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry0

See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]. The fifth part of the book begins here.

3666:1xnv30

“Which way did your beloved go”

3676:1wr5y0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover” or “the man you love”

3686:1emy40

“you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:8.

3696:1ise2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

The words “tell us” are understood from the context. They can be stated clearly Alternate translation: “gone? Tell us, so that we can look for him with you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3706:2vrq9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. See the explanation of this metaphor in Song of Songs 5:1. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3716:2v5x3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 5:13. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3726:2w7gnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

These words are metaphors for the man enjoying her body. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3736:2st2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (Song of Songs 2:17) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking (Song of Songs 2:1-2). See how you translated “he grazes” in Song of Songs 2:16. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3746:2e94c0

“to pick lilies”

3756:2gp6q0

sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in Song of Songs 2:1.

3766:3z5rf0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

3776:3lr7w0

See how you translated the similar phrase “My beloved is mine, and I am his” in Song of Songs 2:16.

3786:3p4l40

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:16.

3796:4q66q0

Here begins Part Five of the book

3806:4xk88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

These cities were famous for being beautiful and pleasant to be in. The man thinks the woman is beautiful, and he takes pleasure in being with her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3816:4nj8w0

“you whom I love.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:9.

3826:4rjr50

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:5.

3836:4uwd80

The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the man feel helpless, as if an army were approaching him.

3846:5l78a0

The man continues to praise the woman.

3856:5e85g0

“terrify me.” The eyes of the woman are so beautiful that it makes the man feel weak and afraid because he cannot resist their power.

3866:5lbz10

Translate “Your hair … from Mount Gilead” as in Song of Songs 4:1.

3876:6zz3k0

The man continues to praise the woman.

3886:6lxi1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The womans teeth are white. See how “Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes” is translated in Song of Songs 4:2. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3896:6j7serc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

The ewes are coming up out of the water. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:2. Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3906:6x7hrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lamb usually look like one another. Each of the womans teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:2. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3916:6s4qj0

Each of the womans teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:2.

3926:6j4u30

lost a loved one who has died. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:2.

3936:7zid1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the womans cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:3. Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

3946:7z88b0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:1.

3956:8g963rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers0

These numbers are to be large, then larger, and then beyond counting. Alternate translation: “There are 60 queens, 80 concubines … more young women than anyone could count” or “There are many queens, even more concubines, and more young women than anyone could count” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3966:9a2hhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the womans face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:14. Alternate translation: “You beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3976:9dk9e0

“my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 5:2.

3986:9m138rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole0

This is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “her mothers special daughter” or “completely different from her mothers other daughters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

3996:9tej60

“the woman who gave birth to her.” This phrase refers to her mother.

4006:9wmx60

the women spoken of in Song of Songs 6:8.

4016:9al8y0

“said that things had gone especially well for her”

4026:10cw4k0

The ULT understands this to be what the queens and the concubines said about the woman. However, some versions understand these to be the words of the man.

4036:10g6e9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion0

They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. Alternate translation: “This is an amazing woman! She comes into view like the dawn … banners!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

4046:10y3dprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The dawn is beautiful. The woman is beautiful. Alternate translation: “who comes into view like the dawn” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4056:10vb8crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the other women feel helpless, as if an army were approaching them. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 6:4. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4066:11x84jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The man finishes speaking to himself. Looking to see if plants had matured is probably a metaphor for enjoying the sight of the womans body. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4076:11xmc20

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:13.

4086:11vs9r0

“young plants” or “new shoots”

4096:11qw4q0

“had grown their buds.” Buds are the small round parts of plants which open up into flowers.

4106:11w8xh0

“were opening their flowers”

4116:12lt9yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The man uses this image to express how happy he is. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4126:13u6810

This is 7:1, the first verse of chapter seven, in some versions. The ULT understands this to be the friends and the woman talking to each other. Some versions understand this to be the man speaking to the woman.

4136:13sm5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns0

Possible interpretations are (1) the friends are speaking to the woman or (2) the man is referring to himself in plural. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])

4146:13x9hk0

“Come back, come back.” This is repeated for emphasis.

4156:13za54rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns0

Some versions understand the plural to refer to the man speaking of himself. Alternate translation: “I may gaze” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])

4166:13c2580

look intently for a long time

4176:13e2bmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns0

Possible interpretations are (1) the woman refers to herself as another person and is speaking to the friends or (2) the woman is speaking to the man as if he were many men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])

4186:13iqb90

“as if she were dancing between two armies”

4197:introhqv70

Song of Songs 07 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Beauty

The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Similes

There are many similes in this chapter. Their purpose is to describe the beauty of the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4207:1z7jk0

This is 7:2, the second verse of chapter seven, in some versions.

4217:1v8jnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

It may be that the woman is dancing (Song of Songs 6:13). Alternate translation: “Your feet are so very beautiful in your sandals as you dance” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4227:1k8va0

Another possible interpretation is “you who have a noble character.”

4237:1e9bdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The shape of the womans thighs remind the speaker of a beautiful precious stone that a skilled workman has carved. Alternate translation: “The curves of your thighs are beautiful like the beautiful curves of jewel that a skilled craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4247:1xs8e0

The word “thighs” refers to the hips of a woman and the part of her legs that is above her knee.

4257:1fc12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche0

The hands are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “the work of a master craftsman” or “something that a master craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4267:2rg4z0

The young womans lover continues describing the one he loves.

4277:2u88erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

A bowl is round. The womans navel is round. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4287:2dp5a0

the spot on the stomach left from the cord that attaches a baby to its mother

4297:2n59prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

People used large bowls to mix wine with water or spices at feasts. Drinking wine is a metaphor for enjoying beauty. The litotes can be translated as a positive. Alternate translation: “may it always contain mixed wine” or “may I always enjoy its beauty” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

4307:2q8fyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The Israelites thought mounds of wheat and lilies were pleasant to look at. Much wheat was a sign that there would be much food to eat. They threshed wheat in high, dry places, and lilies grow in low, wet places, so this simile combines beautiful sights that people would not usually see at the same time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4317:2w6nhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

People thought that the color of wheat was the most beautiful color of skin and that round piles of wheat were beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your belly has a beautiful color and is round like a pile of wheat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4327:2ah1p0

This is a pile of the grains of wheat after people remove the parts of it that they do not use.

4337:2cz8d0

“with lilies all around it”

4347:2ue5r0

sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in Song of Songs 2:1.

4357:3le8a0

The man continues describing the woman.

4367:3jw6n0

If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:5.

4377:3ugf3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The man implies that the womans breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:5. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4387:3jh3u0

the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 4:5.

4397:3wr8t0

an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in Song of Songs 2:7.

4407:4uv17rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

A tower is long and straight. Ivory is white. The womans neck is long and straight, and her skin is light in color. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4417:4b1sy0

“a tower that people have decorated with ivory”

4427:4xgt70

the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make art and to make things look beautiful.

4437:4h4ihrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The womans eyes are spoken of as if they are clear pools of water. Pools of water are clear and sparkle in the sunlight and so are pleasant to look at. The womans eyes are clear and sparkle and so are pleasant to look at. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “your eyes are as clear as the pools in Heshbon” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4447:4md6src://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

This is the name of a city east of the Jordan River (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4457:4r1vfrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4467:4a4vgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

A tower is tall and straight, and her nose is tall and straight. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4477:4s23krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The tower looking is a metonym for people on the tower looking. Alternate translation: “that allows people to look toward Damascus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4487:5a7bt0

The man continues to describe the woman.

4497:5jn22rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Mount Carmel is higher than everything else around it. The man wants to look at the womans head more than at anything else. Alternate translation: “Your head is on you like a crown, higher than anything else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4507:5sr830

Other possible translations are (1) “dark black” or (2) “dark red.”

4517:5hkk7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Your hair that hangs down is so beautiful that the king is not able to stop admiring it” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4527:5l5e50

the clusters of hair that hang down from a womans head

4537:6hqx30

“my love. You delight me”

4547:7j31f0

The man describes what he would like to do with the woman .

4557:7jy1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

“You stand up like a date palm tree.” Date palm trees are tall and straight, and their branches are only at the top, with the fruit under the branches. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4567:7f6me0

a tall, straight tree that produces a sweet, brown, and sticky fruit that grows in groups

4577:7jr1vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The dates on a palm tree grow soft and round in large bunches that hang from the tree just below the branches, which are all at the top. The womans breasts are soft and round and are just lower than her arms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4587:8p7ge0

“I thought” or “I said to myself.” The man said this silently.

4597:8r1b3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The man wants to embrace the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4607:8w5g3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The man wants to touch her breasts. Clusters of grapes are round and soft. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4617:8zfb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

The word “nose” is a metonym for the breath coming out of the nose. Alternate translation: “may the breath coming from your nose smell sweet like apricots” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4627:8f9is0

sweet yellow fruit

4637:9tqs70

The man continues describing what he would like to do with the woman.

4647:9yrg1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The palate is a metonym for the lips. Wine tastes good. The man wants to kiss the womans lips. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4657:9rq120

“that flows smoothly for the one I love.” The man enjoys the smooth kisses of the woman.

4667:9ed640

“that flows over our lips as we sleep”

4677:10k7zq0

See how you translated a similar phrase in Song of Songs 6:3.

4687:10j44v0

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear ones” or “my lovers”

4697:10a1430

“he wants to make love to me” or “he wants me”

4707:11bhr60

Though the words here translated “spends the night” and “villages” appear together in Song of Songs 1:13-14 as “spends the night” and “henna flowers,” and the context both here and there is lovemaking, the ULT chooses this reading because the immediate metaphor is of the man and woman sleeping in the village, rising in the morning, and going out into the vineyards. The word for “henna plants” and the word for “villages” sound exactly the same.

4717:12jsd10

The woman continues to speak to the man.

4727:12iii60

“get up early” or “wake up early”

4737:12cs6n0

“have begun to bloom”

4747:12r9520

flowers when they are open

4757:12ukd90

“have flowers open on the plant”

4767:12q3a40

“I will make love with you”

4777:13v5gj0

The woman continues to speak to the man.

4787:13v61brc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown0

This is the name of plants that give off a strong but pleasant scent. The scent is slightly intoxicating and stimulating, which increases the desire to make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

4797:13alp40

“produce their scent” or “smell very nice”

4807:13xbk7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

The doors belong to their house. Alternate translation: “above the entrances of our house” or “by the doors of our house” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4817:13c2ah0

“is every kind of the best fruit, both old fruit and new fruit”

4827:13jsb80

“saved so I can give to you”

4837:13h8r20

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

4848:introd35n0

Song of Songs 08 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Kisses

The kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Passion

The chapter describes the passion that can exist between a husband a wife. This is the feeling of strong or uncontrollable desire for another person.

4858:1me7mrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry0

See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]

4868:1dp21rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

A woman could show affection for her brother in public. This woman wanted to be able to show affection for the man in public. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4878:1v5fh0

“you in public”

4888:1zyd60

A woman would probably kiss her brother on his cheek order to greet him.

4898:1ec820

“would think that I am a bad person”

4908:2apj40

The young woman continues to speak to the man.

4918:2i6chrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

taught her how to make love (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4928:2s68src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman uses these images to say that she will give herself to the man and make love with him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4938:2au41rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“wine with spices” or “wine that has spices in it.” This represents the intoxicating power of lovemaking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4948:3s92v0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:6.

4958:3e5cp0

“left arm … right arm”

4968:3v65k0

“holds me”

4978:4z8a40

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:7

4988:4rk33rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

“young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:7. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

4998:4qg8i0

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:7.

5008:5a5w50

The fifth part of the book begins here.

5018:5xxv3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion0

They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. A similar phrase was translated in Song of Songs 6:10. Alternate translation: “Look at this amazing woman as she comes up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5028:5p4rr0

“I woke you up” or “I aroused you”

5038:5zfa20

a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:3.

5048:5g9tp0

under the apricot tree

5058:5d4ub0

“she bore you”

5068:6y4fz0

The young woman continues to speak to the man.

5078:6jr5mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Possible meanings are (1) because seals were very important, people always kept them around their neck or on their hand. The woman wants to be with the man constantly like a seal, or (2) a seal shows who owns the thing that has the seal on it, and the woman wants herself as the seal on the mans heart and arm to show that all of his thoughts, emotions, and actions belong to her. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

5088:6yzj4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Death is very strong because it overcomes even the most powerful people of the world. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

5098:6tci8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

“as tough as Sheol.” Sheol never allows people to come back to life after they have already died. Love is as persistent as Sheol because it never changes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

5108:6fvz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Love is very powerful like fire. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5118:6tw710

“burn suddenly”

5128:7ir3s0

The young woman continues to speak to the man.

5138:7baf6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Love is so strong that it is like a fire that is so hot that it cannot be put out even with an ocean full of water. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5148:7j6mc0

“Oceans of water” or “Huge amounts of water”

5158:7dd1i0

“cannot extinguish” or “cannot put out”

5168:7e1ejrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Love never changes and always stays the same so it is like something that not even a powerful flood can move. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5178:7dju90

In Israel, water from the rain flows into deep and narrow valleys. This creates a flood of water so powerful that it can move huge boulders and trees.

5188:7kqk90

“carry it away” or “wash it away”

5198:7jwh1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo0

This is something that could possibly happen. Alternate translation: “Even if a man … he would be utterly despised” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

5208:7g5ja0

offered to give

5218:7l4u30

“everything he owns”

5228:7n3pn0

“in order to get love” or “in order to buy love”

5238:7nt2src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive0

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people would completely despise him” or “people would harshly ridicule him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5248:8au5a0

“young sister”

5258:8t852rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion0

The speaker uses this question to introduce what he wants to say. Alternate translation: “This is what we will do … in marriage.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5268:8g5fprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a man comes and wants to marry her” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5278:9mpf50

The young womans brothers continue to speak among themselves.

5288:9x3j1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The little sister (Song of Songs 8:8) has very small breasts that either have not grown or are very small. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5298:9am5urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The brothers decide to decorate the little sister with silver and cedar, symbols of riches, so that she will be more likely to attract a good husband. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5308:9cnw30

“will decorate her”

5318:10n2vyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The wall is a metaphor for a woman with small breasts. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5328:10mc78rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile0

Fortress towers are tall. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

5338:10rll2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

Here eyes are a metonym for judgment or value. Alternate translation: “I am in his judgment as one” or “he thinks of me as one” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5348:10b5uurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit0

You may need to make explicit to whom the woman brings peace. Alternate translation: “brings him peace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5358:10hi470

“well-being”

5368:11tt740

Possible interpretations: (1) The woman contrasts the way she wants to give herself to the man, who will give her his love, to the way Solomon leases out his vineyard to those who will give him money. (2) The man contrasts the woman, whom he will not give to another man, to Solomons vineyard, which he gave to other men.

5378:11x2c3rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

This is the name of a town in the northern part of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

5388:11mz3u0

leased, agreed to let other people pay him so they could grow grapes in the vineyard

5398:11b1b30

“to people who would take care of it”

5408:11h77mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis0

It may be helpful to state that this payment was for the fruit of the vineyard. Alternate translation: “Each man was supposed to give Solomon a thousand shekels as payment for the fruit of the vineyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

5418:11t2dprc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney0

“to bring 1,000 shekels of silver.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

5428:11e3jp0

“coins”

5438:11mm2jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe0

Some versions understand the woman to be speaking directly to Solomon. Others understand her to be speaking in an apostrophe to her friends, to the man, or to herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

5448:12za66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

The woman refers to herself as a vineyard, as in Song of Songs 1:6. Here she emphasizes that she and no one else will decide what she dies with the “vineyard.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5458:12gc75rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom0

This is an idiom that means the a person has the right to do what they want with something. Alternate translation: “is at my disposal” or “is mine to do with as I desire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5468:12tl1c0

The woman knows that Solomon has leased out the vineyard so he can get money, but she does not want money.

5478:12t7u10

The speaker has not mentioned these before, but the hearer would understand that she is speaking of the money that those who worked the vineyard would have left for their own after they paid Solomon.

5488:13dp6src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you0

The man is speaking to the woman, so “you” and “live” are feminine singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

5498:13zm5hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy0

The voice is a metonym for what the person says. If your language has a word for thinking only of what one is listening for, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “waiting to hear you start speaking” or “waiting to hear what you have to say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5508:13ew6z0

“let me hear your voice.”

5518:14vrp70

This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in Song of Songs 1:13. Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”

5528:14zh440

See how you translated this in Song of Songs 2:9.

5538:14yhn70

a type of slender deer-like animal with long curved horns

5548:14gp9l0

an adult male deer

5558:14mqx9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

“the mountains that have spices all over them.” The woman uses this metaphor to invite the man to make love to her. See how the man uses the metaphor of a mountain of myrrh and a hill of frankincense in Song of Songs 4:6. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])