Song of Solomon 7:5

Thine head vpon thee is like Carmel, and the haire of thine head like purple, the king is held in the galleries. Song of Solomon 7:5 (KJV)

Historical and Literary Context: The Song of Solomon, also known as the Song of Songs, is a poetic book found in the Old Testament. It is traditionally ascribed to King Solomon and is known for its rich imagery and allegorical portrayal of love between a bride (the Shulammite woman) and her bridegroom (the beloved). The book uses the language of human love to depict the deep intimate relationship between God and His people or between Christ and His Church.

Interpretation of Song of Solomon 7:5: In this verse, the bridegroom is praising the beauty of his bride, specifically focusing on her head and hair. Let’s explore the symbolism in this verse:

a) “Thine head upon thee is like Carmel”: Carmel was a prominent mountain range in Israel known for its fertility and beauty. The reference to the bride’s head being like Carmel suggests her excellence, strength, and majesty. It signifies her worth and dignity as the bride of the king.

b) “The hair of thine head like purple”: Purple was a colour associated with royalty and wealth in biblical times. The description of the bride’s hair as purple indicates her regal and noble nature. It speaks of her honour and distinction as the chosen bride of the king.

c) “The king is held in the galleries”: The phrase “the king is held in the galleries” suggests that he is captivated and enthralled by the beauty of his bride. It portrays the deep affection, admiration, and desire the king has for his beloved. The word “galleries” may symbolize the bride’s beauty being displayed and admired publicly. Some translations note that the Hebrew word sha’arim refers to “locks” or “tresses,” rendering the idea that the king is held captive by its tresses.

Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning: Song of Solomon is often interpreted allegorically to represent the relationship between Christ and the Church. In this context:

a) The bride represents the Church or individual believers who have entered into a covenant relationship with Christ.

b) Christ, the King, represents the bridegroom who loves and cherishes His Church.

c) The description of the bride’s head as Carmel symbolizes the Church’s spiritual beauty, strength, and fertility, speaking of its ability to bear fruit and bring forth spiritual abundance.

d) The reference to the hair of the bride’s head as purple signifies the Church’s royal position as the redeemed people of God, its identity as a chosen and holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:9).

e) The phrase “the king is held in the galleries” depicts the deep love, affection, and captivation of Christ for His Church, reflecting His delight in the beauty and devotion of His people.

Practical Application:

• Understand your identity: Recognise that as a believer you are chosen and set apart by God. Embrace your identity as a child of God and a member of His royal priesthood.
• Cultivate spiritual fruitfulness: Just as Carmel was known for its fertility, strive to bear spiritual fruit in your life. Seek to grow in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self‑control (Galatians 5:22‑23).
• Appreciate Christ’s love: Meditate on the deep love and affection that Christ has for His Church. Allow yourself to be captivated by His love and respond with gratitude and devotion.
• Display Christ’s beauty: As a member of the Church, your life should reflect the beauty and character of Christ. Let your words, actions, and relationships be a testimony to His love and grace.

Remember, while this interpretation provides a general understanding of the verse, different scholars and theologians may have varied perspectives. It is essential to study the Bible as a whole and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit for a comprehensive understanding of God’s Word.