Question 1

What does Song of Solomon 2:15 mean?

Accepted Answer

Song of Solomon 2:15 is a request to catch the foxes, especially the small ones, because they ruin the vineyards that are just beginning to bear tender grapes. The verse uses this image to highlight the need to protect something precious and vulnerable from small but real threats. In the context of the Song of Solomon, this line is spoken by the lovers, likely as a shared concern. The vineyard is a picture of their relationship, and the "little foxes" represent small problems or outside influences that could damage their growing love. The verse comes in the middle of a poetic exchange about longing and delight, showing the couple’s desire to guard their love from harm.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Song of Solomon 2:15

Accepted Answer

"Foxes" (שׁוּעָלִים, shu‘alim): This word refers to small, clever animals known for sneaking into vineyards and causing damage. The image is not of a dramatic threat, but of something sly and persistent. "Little" (קְטַנִּים, qetannim): The emphasis on "little" foxes draws attention to the idea that even minor issues or seemingly harmless things can cause real harm if left unchecked. "Spoil" (חָבַל, chabal): This word means to ruin, damage, or destroy. It points to the real impact these small foxes can have on the tender, developing grapes. "Vines" (גֶּפֶן, gephen) and "grapes" (עֲנָבִים, anavim): These words make clear the setting is a vineyard, a common symbol for love, growth, and fruitfulness in ancient poetry.

Question 3

Why Song of Solomon 2:15 matters

Accepted Answer

Song of Solomon 2:15 clears up the idea that only big problems threaten relationships; it shows that small, unnoticed issues can be just as destructive if ignored. The verse emphasizes the value and fragility of new love, using the image of tender grapes to show how easily something good can be harmed. In the wider passage, this verse connects the natural world to the lovers’ experience, blending everyday images with deeper meaning about care, attention, and protection in relationships.

Song of Solomon 2:15 (KJV)