We will make thee borders of gold with studs of silver.

SONG OF SOLOMON 1:11KJV
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Song of Solomon 1:11 (KJV)

What does Song of Solomon 1:11 mean?

Song of Solomon 1:11 describes a promise to make beautiful ornaments of gold with silver decorations for the beloved woman. The verse uses the image of fine jewelry to express honor, value, and affection toward her.

In the setting of this verse, a group—often understood as the friends or attendants of the woman—speaks to her, pledging to adorn her with precious things. This poetic language fits the book’s theme of love and admiration, using the making of luxurious borders and studs as a way to show how highly the woman is cherished.

The Hebrew behind Song of Solomon 1:11

  • "make" (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): This word means to do, make, or fashion. Here, it emphasizes an active promise to create something special for the beloved, not just to give her something ready-made.
  • "borders" (תּוֹר, tor): This word often refers to ornamental bands or rows, especially as part of jewelry or decoration. The use of "borders" suggests a focus on detailed, careful craftsmanship.
  • "studs" (נָקֵד, naqed): This term refers to small, decorative spots or studs, likely set into the gold. It highlights the intricate and valuable nature of the gift, showing attention to beauty and detail.

Why Song of Solomon 1:11 matters

  • The verse clears up that the focus is not on literal jewelry, but on the value and honor given to the beloved through poetic imagery.
  • Song of Solomon 1:11 connects to the wider passage by building on the theme of mutual admiration and the celebration of love’s beauty.
  • The promise of making something precious for the beloved shows the active role of the community or friends in supporting and celebrating the couple’s relationship.

Where else these words appear

“borders” Hebrew H8447 · used in 4 verses

  • Esther 2:12 Now when every maid's turn was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women,(for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odours, and with other things for the purifying of the women;)
  • Esther 2:15 Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her.
  • Song of Solomon 1:10 Thy cheeks are comely with rows of jewels, thy neck with chains of gold.