Song of Solomon 2:16
My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.
Song of Solomon 2:16 (KJV)
Context
Song of Solomon, also called the Song of Songs, is a poetic book in the Old Testament. It contains lyrical love poems that express the deep affection between a bride, the Shulammite woman, and her bridegroom. In this verse, the bride speaks, declaring her love and belonging.
Meaning
She says, “My beloved is mine.” This shows the bond of love and exclusivity between them. It emphasizes commitment and intimacy. Then she adds, “and I am his.” This reciprocal statement highlights mutual belonging and devotion, forming a covenant-like bond. The phrase “he feedeth among the lilies” uses shepherd imagery. The beloved grazes his flock among lilies, suggesting care, nourishment, and peaceful, beautiful surroundings. Lilies are delicate flowers associated with purity and freshness, representing a place of delight. This pastoral picture is not one-sided; both belong to each other, and the beloved actively provides for the bride.
Biblical connections
This verse pictures the spiritual relationship between Christ and His church. Jesus is the bridegroom, and believers are His bride. The shepherd imagery connects to Christ as the Good Shepherd who cares for His sheep (John 10:11). A parallel expression appears in Song of Solomon 6:3, where the bride repeats the same words of mutual belonging, underscoring the stability and confidence of the relationship. This repetition shows that the bond is secure and enduring.
Application
Believers can claim Jesus as their beloved and know they belong to Him. This mutual belonging brings assurance and peace. Just as the bride found security in her beloved, Christians can rest in Christ’s faithful care. The imagery of feeding among lilies symbolizes spiritual nourishment and renewal found in communion with Christ, who leads His people to places of purity and beauty. Trust in the Shepherd’s care means relying on His provision and protection daily.
Reflection
This verse invites readers to rest in the security of mutual love and to trust in the Shepherd’s care. It calls for a personal, intimate relationship with Christ, marked by exclusivity and devotion. The believer’s response is to declare, “My beloved is mine, and I am his,” and to live in the joy of that belonging.
