Song of Solomon 6:13 (KJV)

What does Song of Solomon 6:13 mean?

Song of Solomon 6:13 describes a group calling for the Shulamite woman to return so they can look at her, and then asks what they will see in her, comparing her presence to the impressive sight of two armies. The verse highlights both the desire to behold the Shulamite and the sense of awe or majesty she inspires.

In this verse, the speakers are likely onlookers or a chorus addressing the Shulamite, urging her to come back so they can gaze at her. The question about what is seen in her, answered with the image of "the company of two armies," suggests she is as striking and captivating as a grand, dramatic scene—possibly evoking both beauty and dignity.

The Hebrew behind Song of Solomon 6:13

• "Return" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word appears four times in quick succession, emphasizing a strong, almost urgent plea for the Shulamite to come back. The repetition underlines how much her presence is desired.
• "Shulamite" (שׁוּלַמִּית, Shulammith): This is a unique name or title for the woman, possibly highlighting her identity or status. The use of this name here singles her out as the focus of attention.
• "Look" (חָזָה, chazah) and "see" (חָזָה, chazah): Both words come from the same root, meaning to gaze at or behold. The verse is about more than just seeing with the eyes—it suggests a deeper, attentive looking.
• "Company" (מַחֲלָה, machaneh) and "armies" (מַחֲנֶה, machaneh): These words refer to a camp or encampment, often of soldiers. The image of "the company of two armies" paints the Shulamite as awe-inspiring, perhaps even mysterious or powerful, not just beautiful.

Why Song of Solomon 6:13 matters

• This verse clears up that the Shulamite is not just admired for her looks, but also inspires a sense of wonder and respect, like the sight of two great armies facing each other.
• The repeated call to "return" shows how central the Shulamite is to the story and to those around her, emphasizing her importance in the narrative.
• The comparison to two armies connects this moment to the book’s larger theme of love as something both beautiful and powerful, suggesting that love can be as striking and commanding as a dramatic scene of battle.