Question 1

What does Song of Solomon 6:7 mean?

Accepted Answer

Song of Solomon 6:7 uses the image of pomegranate slices to describe the beloved’s temples, comparing their beauty and delicate color to the fruit seen through her hair. The verse is a poetic compliment, highlighting both attractiveness and a sense of modesty or mystery, as her temples are seen “within thy locks.” The speaker is the man, addressing his beloved woman in a series of vivid, affectionate descriptions. In the context of this love poem, he admires her features with rich, natural imagery. The mention of her “temples within thy locks” suggests a gentle, respectful admiration, focusing on what is partly hidden by her hair, and the pomegranate image points to a healthy, lively appearance.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Song of Solomon 6:7

Accepted Answer

“piece” (פֶּלַח, pelach): This word refers to a slice or segment, often of fruit. Here, it emphasizes the idea of a delicate, curved section, suggesting the gentle contour of the woman’s temple. “pomegranate” (רִמּוֹן, rimmon): The pomegranate is a fruit known for its rich red color and many seeds. In this verse, it likely points to a healthy, blushing complexion, a common symbol of beauty in ancient poetry. “temples” (רַקָּה, raqqah): This word means the side of the head, near the eyes and above the cheek. The focus on the temples, rather than the whole face, draws attention to a subtle, graceful feature. “within” (בְּ, b’): This preposition means “within” or “behind.” Its use here shows that the temples are partly concealed by the hair, adding a sense of modesty or allure. “locks” (צַמָּה, tsammah): This word refers to braided or flowing hair. The verse pictures the temples as glimpsed through or framed by the beloved’s hair, enhancing the sense of intimacy and beauty.

Question 3

Why Song of Solomon 6:7 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse clears up that the compliment is not just about physical beauty but about a gentle, respectful admiration, focusing on what is partly hidden rather than openly displayed. The use of pomegranate imagery connects this description to other places in the Song of Solomon where fruit and gardens symbolize vitality, love, and abundance. The verse fits into a larger section where the man praises the woman’s features one by one, showing the depth and variety of his affection and the poetic style of the book.

Song of Solomon 6:7 (KJV)