Song of Solomon 8:13 (KJV)

What does Song of Solomon 8:13 mean?

Song of Solomon 8:13 is a request from one lover to the other, asking to hear their voice. The speaker addresses the beloved as someone who lives in gardens, noting that others listen for her, and personally asks to hear her speak.

The verse comes near the end of the Song, where the lovers are expressing longing and closeness. The speaker (often understood as the man) addresses the woman, who is pictured as dwelling among gardens—a place of beauty and life. He points out that her companions listen to her, but he desires to hear her voice himself, showing a personal and intimate longing.

The Hebrew behind Song of Solomon 8:13

• "dwellest" (יֹשֶׁבֶת, yoshevet): This word means to live or remain. The use here paints the beloved as someone settled in a place of growth and beauty, not just passing through.
• "gardens" (גַּנִּים, gannim): The plural suggests a lush, abundant setting. Gardens in this book often symbolize delight, intimacy, and flourishing.
• "companions" (חֲבֵרִים, chaverim): This word means friends or associates. The mention of companions listening to her voice hints that she is admired or valued by others, not just the speaker.
• "hearken" (מַקְשִׁיבִים, maqshivim): This means to listen attentively. The companions are not just hearing, but actively listening, which highlights the desirability of her voice.
• "voice" (קוֹלֵךְ, qolekh): This word simply means voice or sound, but in the Song, the voice often represents the person’s presence and affection.
• "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama): This is a strong word for hearing, often carrying the sense of really paying attention or responding.

Why Song of Solomon 8:13 matters

• Song of Solomon 8:13 highlights the personal desire for connection, even when others may also value the beloved. The speaker wants to hear the beloved’s voice directly, not just know that others do.
• The verse draws attention to the beloved’s environment—gardens and companions—emphasizing her beauty, desirability, and the richness of her world.
• This request for the beloved’s voice ties back to earlier parts of the Song, where hearing and being heard are central to the lovers’ relationship, reinforcing the theme of mutual longing and intimacy.