Song of Solomon 7:6
How fair and how pleasant art thou, O love, for delights!
Song of Solomon 7:6 (KJV)
Context
This verse belongs to the Song of Solomon, a poetic book that celebrates love within marriage. The bridegroom speaks here, praising his bride with joyful admiration. His words are part of a larger song that honors the goodness of romantic love as God designed it. In the immediate setting, the king speaks in the galleries, wondering at the church’s beauty, which is described as incomparable and inexpressible.
Meaning
The words “fair” and “pleasant” describe both the bride’s outward beauty and the joy she brings. “O love” is a tender address, showing deep affection. “For delights” means she is a source of pleasure and happiness to him. This is not empty flattery; it is sincere, specific praise that strengthens their bond. The verse functions as an exclamation of praise and affirmation within the larger poetic dialogue.
Biblical connections
Scripture teaches that marriage is a gift from God, and this verse shows how verbal affirmation is part of that gift. When a husband delights in his wife and tells her so, he reflects the Creator’s own joy in His creation. The Song of Solomon also points beyond human love to the relationship between Christ and His Church. In the New Testament, Ephesians 5:25-27 describes Christ’s love for the Church as sacrificial and cleansing. Here, the bridegroom’s delight in his bride foreshadows the joy Christ has in His people.
Application
This verse encourages spouses to speak words of admiration regularly. A simple, sincere compliment can refresh a marriage. It also reminds believers that God sees His people as beautiful and precious. Just as the bridegroom rejoices over his bride, the Lord rejoices over those who belong to Him. The verse highlights the value of verbal affirmation in love and the goodness of physical and emotional attraction within marriage.
Reflection
Take time to consider how you express love to those closest to you. Do your words build them up? Let this verse inspire you to be generous with praise, and to rest in the truth that God delights in you. The poetic language invites reflection on the beauty of love as a gift from God.
