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Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote
SNG front intro an3g 0 # Introduction to the Song of Songs<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Song of Songs<br><br>1. The bride longs for the bridegroom to arrive (1:1–2:7)<br>1. The bridegroom praises the woman he loves (2:8–3:5)<br>1. The bridegroom arrives and praises the bride (3:6–5:1)<br>1. The bride longs for the bridegroom (5:2–6:9)<br>1. The bridegroom praises the beauty of his bride (6:1–8:4)<br>1. Final thoughts about love between a man and a woman (8:5–14)<br><br>### What is the Song of Songs about?<br><br>The Song of Songs is a poem or a series of poems that celebrate love and intimacy between a man and a woman. Jews traditionally have interpreted the book as a picture of God’s love for his people Israel. In the same way, many Christians interpret it as a picture of love between Christ and his bride, the church of all believers.<br><br>### Who wrote the Song of Songs?<br><br>The first verse of the book (“The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s”) gives the idea that King Solomon of Israel wrote it. However, people have interpreted this verse in different ways, so not everyone is persuaded that Solomon wrote it.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>This book is traditionally titled “Song of Songs,” which means the very best song, or “Song of Solomon.” It may also be called “Songs of Love,” “Great Poems of Love,” or “The Love Songs of Solomon.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What place do the descriptions of sexual behavior have in the Song of Songs?<br><br>The Song of Songs approves of sexual behavior expressing love between a husband his wife.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How many characters are in the Song of Songs?<br><br>The two main characters in this book are the man and the woman, who love each other. The woman also speaks to a group of women called the “daughters of Jerusalem,” and these women make comments. However, it is possible that the group of women is not real and the woman is only imagining them.<br><br>Some interpreters believe there may be more characters than these, but this is not certain. The ULT and UST versions recognize only the man, the woman, and the group of women.<br><br>### What are the lines about people speaking?<br><br>The Song of Songs is a poem that shows the thoughts and words of a man, a woman, and the woman’s friends. Throughout the poem, the author does not identify the speakers and their audience. So to help readers understand the poem, some translations attempt to identify the speaker and the audience. It is not always certain who the speaker is, so sometimes translations disagree about who is speaking.<br><br>Before each speech, the ULT identifies the speaker and the audience like this: “The woman speaking to the other women,” “The woman speaking to the man,” “The man speaking to the woman,” or “The woman speaking to herself.” Translators are encouraged to include these ways of identifying the speaker and the audience, and to format them differently from the scripture text. The translators should also include a note explaining that these explanations are not actually part of the scripture.<br><br>### How should one translate the Song of Songs if the readers will view certain terms as coarse, vulgar, or improper?<br><br>Readers might consider many images or forms appearing in the Song of Songs as improper when translated. The translator should try to avoid offensive language if possible, by using expressions that will not cause offense. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])<br><br>### How do I translate metaphors and similes in this book?<br><br>There are many metaphors and similes in this book. These figures of speech are often unclear. If they have sexual meanings, figures of speech describing feelings or emotions are often used to avoid offense by hiding their meaning. However, since their meanings are often unclear, ambiguity in translation is encouraged. You can translate the words as they are written in order to avoid committing to a specific meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 intro xrm2 0 # Song of Songs 1 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Kisses<br>The kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### Love and affection<br>This chapter is centered on the feelings of love, affection, and attraction. Different cultural standards may make translation difficult and the translator may use euphemisms to avoid offending people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “I am dark”<br>In the ancient Near East, rich people usually had lighter skin because they did not need to work outside in the sun. This young woman had to work out in the sun, and her skin became darker than it was when she was younger.
SNG 1 1 fna4 writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
SNG 1 1 qbe2 0 The Song of Songs Alternate translation: “The Best Song” or “The Most Excellent Song”
SNG 1 1 r5ns 0 which is Solomon’s Possible meanings are “which is about Solomon” or “which Solomon composed.”
SNG 1 2 j5xq 0 General Information: The first part of the book begins with this verse.
SNG 1 2 nze7 0 your love is better than wine Alternate translation: “I enjoy having you near me more than I enjoy drinking wine”
SNG 1 3 si36 0 Your anointing oils Alternate translation: “The oils that you put on your body”
SNG 1 3 d9r7 0 have a delightful fragrance Alternate translation: “smell wonderful”
SNG 1 3 z9t3 figs-simile 0 your name is like flowing perfume Perfume has a good smell that spreads as the air moves. The name is either a metonym for: (1) the person’s reputation, what other people think of him. Here the speaker says that people always think that the hearer is a good person, or (2) the person himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 1 4 v83t figs-you 0 with you “The word “you” refers to the man and so is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
SNG 1 4 gec8 figs-metaphor 0 Take “Pull” or “Drag.” Here the woman described as being like a captive who is willing to follow her captor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 4 ty2p figs-exclusive 0 we will run The word “we” refers to the young woman together with the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
SNG 1 4 isr6 figs-pronouns 0 We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate The woman speaks of herself as if she were more than one person. Many versions change the pronoun to “I” as the UST does. Other versions present these as the words of the woman’s friends speaking about either the woman or the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
SNG 1 4 at7l 0 about you Alternate translation: “because of you”
SNG 1 4 geq4 0 let us celebrate Alternate translation: “let us praise”
SNG 1 4 ag8r 0 It is natural for the other women to adore you Alternate translation: “Women who adore you are doing as they should do”
SNG 1 5 ez2x 0 I am dark but lovely Alternate translation: “My skin is dark, but I am still beautiful” or “Even though my skin is dark, I am beautiful”
SNG 1 5 rbb3 figs-simile 0 dark like the tents of Kedar The nomadic tribes in Kedar used black goat skins to build their homes. The woman is comparing her skin to these tents. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 1 5 dc13 figs-simile 0 lovely like the curtains of Solomon Solomon produced beautiful curtains either for his own palace or for the Temple. She says that her skin is beautiful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 1 6 thz7 figs-hyperbole 0 scorched This exaggeration for “burned” or “made black” refers to the sun changing her skin from light to dark. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
SNG 1 6 fz9h 0 My mother’s sons “My half-brothers.” These brothers probably had the same mother as the woman but not the same father.
SNG 1 6 v86f 0 made me keeper of the vineyards Alternate translation: “made me take care of the vineyards”
SNG 1 6 w18k figs-metaphor 0 but my own vineyard I have not kept The woman compares herself to a vineyard. Alternate translation: “but I have not been able to take care of myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 7 f9hi figs-metonymy 0 my soul loves The soul is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “I love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 1 7 v54w 0 feed your flock Alternate translation: “graze your flocks”
SNG 1 7 f5eb 0 rest your flock Alternate translation: “have your flock lie down”
SNG 1 7 v6rs figs-rquestion 0 Why should I be like someone who wanders beside the flocks of your companions? The woman asks this question to emphasize that she has a closer relationship to the man than other women do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Tell me so that I will not need to wander around among the flocks of your companions when I am looking for you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
SNG 1 7 bq95 figs-metaphor 0 who wanders “who goes all around.” She does not want to have to look for the man. Perhaps she is afraid other men will think she is a prostitute looking for business. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 7 b552 0 your companions Alternate translation: “your friends” or “your co-workers”
SNG 1 8 nky4 0 most beautiful among women Alternate translation: “you who are the most beautiful of all women”
SNG 1 8 al9c 0 follow the tracks of my flock Alternate translation: “follow along behind the flock”
SNG 1 8 i8sl 0 tracks marks of the hooves of the flock on the ground
SNG 1 8 fis9 0 pasture your young goats Alternate translation: “graze your young goats” or “let your young goats eat”
SNG 1 9 gw76 figs-simile 0 I compare you, my love, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariot horses The Jews of those days considered horses beautiful, and the Pharaoh’s horses would have been the most beautiful he could find. The man considers the young woman beautiful. Alternate translation: “My love, you are as beautiful as any of Pharaoh’s chariot horses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 1 9 l3q7 0 my love Alternate translation: “you whom I love”
SNG 1 9 zyj5 0 Pharaoh’s chariot horses Alternate translation: “the horses that pull Pharaoh’s chariots”
SNG 1 10 u7h9 figs-metaphor 0 Your cheeks are beautiful with ornaments These ornaments could be: (1) jewels hanging from a band around the head or (2) earrings or (3) a metaphor for her long hair. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 11 dza7 figs-pronouns 0 We will make The man speaks as if he were many people. Some versions change this to singular “I.” Other versions take these to be the words of the woman’s friends. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
SNG 1 11 bp6l 0 with silver studs Alternate translation: “with spots of silver”
SNG 1 12 zt7d 0 lay on his couch “sat eating his special meal.” This probably refers to one of the couches on which people would lie around a table at a banquet. You could translate using the common word for what people do with their bodies when they eat special meals.
SNG 1 12 ur66 0 nard an oil that people got from the expensive nard or spikenard (valerian plant with small pink or white flowers) and used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor.
SNG 1 12 lp8f 0 emitted its fragrance Alternate translation: “gave off its good smell”
SNG 1 13 vc5v figs-simile 0 My beloved is to me like a bag of myrrh … breasts Women would place a small bag or pouch of myrrh on a necklace so it would lie between their breasts and they could enjoy its pleasant fragrance. This woman enjoys having her beloved close to her. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy having a bag of myrrh … breasts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 1 13 bzs7 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
SNG 1 13 f8y8 figs-euphemism 0 lying between my breasts If this phrase would offend your readers, you could use a euphemism. Alternate translation: “close to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 1 14 zh75 figs-simile 0 My beloved is to me like a cluster of henna flowers Henna flowers have a fragrance that people enjoy. The woman enjoys her beloved. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy the smell of clusters of henna flowers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 1 14 a6jk 0 henna flowers flowers from a small desert tree that people used as a perfume
SNG 1 15 x2d5 0 Listen, you Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
SNG 1 15 m114 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](./09.md)
SNG 1 15 fb4x figs-metonymy 0 your eyes are doves This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. Alternate translation: “you are very gentle” or (2) the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes as being like the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 1 16 sbi4 0 Listen, you Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
SNG 1 16 km29 0 handsome Use the word in your language that describes a good-looking man.
SNG 1 16 x3pr 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 1 16 q43e figs-metaphor 0 lush plants are our bed This speaks of the lush plants as if they were a bed. Alternate translation: “lush plants are what we lie down on to sleep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 16 xed8 0 The lush plants plants that are green, moist, and grow abundantly
SNG 1 17 v14z figs-metaphor 0 The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are firs The woman describes the forest as though it were a house in which they were lying down. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 1 17 q6r8 0 beams … rafters This could mean: (1) “beams” refers to large logs used to support everything above the walls and “rafters” refers to the large pieces of wood to which the roof is attached or (2) “beams” refers to the rafters and “rafters” refers to the strips attached to the beams, onto which the builders attached the roofing materials.
SNG 1 17 c3e5 translate-unknown 0 cedars … firs Cedars were large and strong trees. The word translated “firs” is a general term for trees like cedars but smaller. If cedar and fir trees are unknown in your area, you could use general terms for the tallest and strongest trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
SNG 2 intro u8uv 0 # Song of Songs 2 General Notes<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>Women are compared to flowers in this chapter. This metaphor may describe a woman’s beauty and delicacy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Euphemisms<br>It is possible that some of the metaphors used in this chapter are actually euphemisms. These euphemisms would refer to sex or the physical love between a husband a wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 2 1 bw25 writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
SNG 2 1 cne2 figs-metaphor 0 I am a meadow flower of Sharon The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 1 ni5p 0 Sharon the name of a land that is flat, has no trees, and grows many different kinds of grasses and flowers
SNG 2 1 vve6 figs-metaphor 0 lily of the valleys The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 1 nt8f 0 lily a sweet smelling flower that grows in places where there is much water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md).
SNG 2 1 e9ke 0 valleys flat areas between mountains and near water
SNG 2 2 ibi6 figs-simile 0 As a lily among thorns … young women A flower is much more beautiful than a thorn bush. The man thinks the woman is much more beautiful than the other women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 2 2 bi45 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
SNG 2 2 y9bu 0 the young women Alternate translation: “the other young women”
SNG 2 3 xz7y figs-simile 0 As an apricot tree … the young men People enjoy the fruit of an apricot tree, but the trees of the forest do not bear fruit. The woman enjoys being with the man, but not with the other young men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 2 3 yr6x 0 apricot tree a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.”
SNG 2 3 wf4u 0 the forest The Hebrew word here refers to land where trees grow for which people have no use.
SNG 2 3 q7kl 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 2 3 pii3 figs-metaphor 0 I sit down under his shadow with great delight The woman finds great joy and comfort in being so near to the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 3 b5ai figs-metaphor 0 his fruit is sweet to my taste The woman enjoys eating sweet fruit, and she enjoys being near to the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 4 ift6 0 the house of wine This could mean: (1) the very large room where the king would serve many people large meals with wine or (2) a small booth in a vineyard where the man and woman could be alone together.
SNG 2 4 rp8q figs-metonymy 0 his banner over me was love This could mean: (1) the banner is a metonym for a military escort. And, the military escort is a metaphor that represents the man’s love which gives courage to the woman who was nervous to enter the large room where the king served many people. Alternate translation: “but his loving protection guided me and gave me courage” or (2) the woman knew that the man wanted to make love to her from the way he looked at her. Alternate translation: “he looked at me lovingly” or “when he looked at me, I knew he wanted to make love to me” or (3) they made love. Alternate translation: “he lovingly covered me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 5 uxb2 0 Revive me Alternate translation: “Return my strength” or “Give me energy”
SNG 2 5 khc1 0 with raisin cakes “by giving me raisin cakes to eat.” Raisin cakes were cakes made of dried grapes pressed together.
SNG 2 5 gs2a 0 refresh me with apricots Alternate translation: “support me by giving me apricots” or “help me by giving me apricots”
SNG 2 5 y4qy figs-metaphor 0 for I am weak with love The woman speaks of feeling weak because her love is so strong as if love were a kind of sickness. Alternate translation: “because my love is so strong that I feel feeble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 6 m6ys 0 left hand … right hand Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
SNG 2 6 fq8w 0 embraces me Alternate translation: “holds me”
SNG 2 7 l67b figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 2 7 n4wq figs-apostrophe 0 by the gazelles and the does of the fields Although the daughters of Jerusalem could not hear her, the woman speaks to them as if they could hear saying that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 2 7 sz5c 0 the gazelles These are animals that look like deer and move quickly.
SNG 2 7 nt79 0 does female deer
SNG 2 7 w94r 0 of the fields “that live in the countryside.” This was land that has not been farmed.
SNG 2 7 ekc3 figs-personification 0 will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 7 fz3j figs-doublet 0 will not awaken or arouse If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
SNG 2 8 aay2 0 General Information: The second part of the book begins here. It is not clear whether the woman is speaking to herself or to the daughters of Jerusalem.
SNG 2 8 j2nl 0 Listen This could mean: (1) “Listen carefully to what I am about to say.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully, or (2) “Listen so you can hear him coming.”
SNG 2 8 rn51 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 2 8 dm9e 0 leaping … jumping The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
SNG 2 8 fr67 figs-metaphor 0 leaping over the mountains, jumping over the hills “leaping on the mountains, running quickly on the hills.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 9) coming quickly toward her over rough ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 9 l5ni 0 gazing … peering The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
SNG 2 9 f2lu figs-simile 0 like a gazelle or a young stag Gazelles and young stags move quickly over rough ground. The woman imagines the man coming as fast as he can to be with her. You could translate using animals in your language that people think of as fast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 2 9 kq5f 0 a gazelle This is an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “the gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
SNG 2 9 qbs9 0 a young stag Alternate translation: “a young male deer”
SNG 2 9 s6z4 0 look “listen carefully” or “what I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
SNG 2 9 umf5 0 behind our wall “on the other side of our wall.” The woman is in a house and the man is outside the house.
SNG 2 9 be2w figs-exclusive 0 our wall The word “our” refers to the woman and the other people in the house with her. If she is speaking to herself, it is inclusive, but if she is speaking to the daughters of Jerusalem, whether she is referring to herself and her companions or to herself only in plural, as in “We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate” ([Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md)), it is exclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
SNG 2 9 kf9u 0 gazing through the window Alternate translation: “he stares in through the windows”
SNG 2 9 s9xt 0 peering through the lattice Alternate translation: “he peeks through the lattice”
SNG 2 9 z1bl 0 lattice a cover for a window or some other entrance that someone has made by weaving long strips of wood together. Lattices have holes that people can look through.
SNG 2 10 hl12 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
SNG 2 10 pah1 0 Arise, my love Alternate translation: “Get out of bed, my love”
SNG 2 10 fff7 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
SNG 2 11 yv91 0 Look “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
SNG 2 11 eyh9 0 the winter is past; the rain is over and gone In winter it is too cold and wet to make love outside, but the cold, wet time has passed.
SNG 2 11 e658 0 the winter is past Winter is the cold time of year when plants do not grow and people prefer to stay inside their houses. You could use the term in your language for that time of year.
SNG 2 11 f4hz 0 the rain is over and gone In Israel it only rains during the winter. The rain here is cold and unpleasant, not the refreshing rain of the hot season.
SNG 2 12 wfw3 0 The flowers have appeared Alternate translation: “People can see flowers”
SNG 2 12 j8f3 0 in the land Alternate translation: “all over this land”
SNG 2 12 sv72 0 for pruning for cutting off branches from a plant so that it will produce more fruit or look better
SNG 2 12 x3li 0 the singing of birds Alternate translation: “for birds to sing”
SNG 2 12 zmw4 figs-activepassive 0 the sound of the doves is heard This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people can hear the sound of doves” or “the doves are cooing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
SNG 2 13 mk2y figs-personification 0 The fig tree ripens her green figs The tree is spoken of as if it were actively causing its fruit to ripen. This is a collective singular and can be translated as a plural. Alternate translation: “The figs on the trees are becoming ripe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
SNG 2 13 ef3j 0 vines are in blossom Alternate translation: “vines are flowering” or “vines have flowers”
SNG 2 13 xhn3 0 they give off The word “they” refers to the blossoms on the vines.
SNG 2 13 wjr7 0 their fragrance Alternate translation: “their sweet smell”
SNG 2 13 m4mt 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
SNG 2 14 a7lp 0 General Information: The man is speaking.
SNG 2 14 wv7q figs-metaphor 0 My dove The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. Alternate translation: “My beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 14 eju1 0 the clefts large cracks in the side of mountain rocks large enough for people to hide in
SNG 2 14 afg5 0 the mountain crags Alternate translation: “the steep rocks on the sides of the mountains”
SNG 2 14 bhl6 0 your face Some versions translate this as “your appearance” or “your form” or “what you look like.”
SNG 2 15 pu8l figs-you 0 Catch This is plural, as if the woman is speaking to more than one man, but most versions translate who she is speaking to as the man, so you could translate this as singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
SNG 2 15 xns5 figs-metaphor 0 the foxes These animals look like small dogs and were often used in love poetry to represent eager young men who would spoil a young woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 15 v31m figs-exclusive 0 for us … our vineyard The words **us** and **our** could possibly be: (1) exclusive, referring to the woman herself, as in [Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md), or (2) inclusive, referring to the woman and the man, or (3) exclusive, referring to the woman and the rest of her family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
SNG 2 15 dac9 0 foxes Another possible meaning is “jackals.” A jackal is a type of thin wild dog with long legs.
SNG 2 15 wl95 figs-metaphor 0 the little foxes that spoil Foxes spoil or destroy vineyards by digging holes and eating vines and grapes. This could be a metaphor for young men who spoil young women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 15 r16k figs-metaphor 0 in blossom This implies that the vineyard is healthy and the grapes have appeared, but they are not ready for harvest. This could be a metaphor for a young lady ready for marriage and bearing children. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:13](./12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 16 zb2r 0 My beloved is mine Alternate translation: “My beloved belongs to me”
SNG 2 16 lxy4 0 I am his Alternate translation: “I belong to him”
SNG 2 16 n6c3 figs-metaphor 0 he grazes “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 17) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 16 x5db 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](./01.md).
SNG 2 17 b3kg 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 2 17 p2uq 0 dawn the part of the day when the sun is rising
SNG 2 17 lz3y figs-metaphor 0 the shadows flee away The woman describes the shadows as though they were running away from the light of the sun. Alternate translation: “the shadows disappear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 2 17 d8mw 0 like a gazelle or a young stag See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](./08.md).
SNG 2 17 vlw3 0 gazelle an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
SNG 2 17 l8dz 0 stag an adult male deer
SNG 2 17 ia1r 0 rugged mountains Alternate translation: “rocky mountains” or “rough mountains”
SNG 3 intro t72h 0 # Song of Songs 3 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Longing<br>This chapter describes a feeling of longing, or the waiting in anticipation of the one you love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 3 1 l1kv 0 I was longing for him … could not find him Alternate translation: “I had a strong desire to be with him … loves, but he was not there”
SNG 3 1 hu3u figs-metonymy 0 him whom my soul loves The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 3 2 uyu7 0 go through the city Alternate translation: “walk through the city”
SNG 3 2 x9ki 0 through the streets and squares The word “squares” indicates the center area of a town where streets or roads come together. It is often an area where people sell items, a market, and a place where people come together to talk.
SNG 3 2 afu9 0 will search Alternate translation: “will to look for”
SNG 3 3 rdd5 0 watchmen men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe
SNG 3 3 b9j2 0 as they were making their rounds in the city Alternate translation: “who were walking around the city on the walls”
SNG 3 3 pab8 figs-metonymy 0 him whom my soul loves The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:1](./01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 3 4 p5k2 0 the bedroom Alternate translation: “the room for sleeping”
SNG 3 4 ri8e figs-metonymy 0 the one who had conceived me This is a metonym for her mother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 3 5 a3y1 0 General Information: Translate this verse as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
SNG 3 5 t61g figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 3 5 qw1m figs-apostrophe 0 by the gazelles and the does of the fields Although the daughters of Jerusalem are not there to hear her, the woman is telling them that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 3 5 b4r5 0 the gazelles animals that look like deer and move quickly.
SNG 3 5 ruq7 0 does female deer
SNG 3 5 n2aq 0 of the fields “that live in the countryside.” This refers to land that has not been farmed.
SNG 3 5 cm9r figs-personification 0 will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 3 5 dbf9 figs-doublet 0 will not awaken or arouse If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
SNG 3 6 e1ly 0 General Information: The third part of the book begins here. It begins with a description of sixty men carrying Solomon’s bed up from the wilderness to Jerusalem.
SNG 3 6 y8wr 0 What is that coming up from the wilderness The group of people is traveling from the wilderness to Jerusalem. They must go up in order to reach Jerusalem because the wilderness is low in the Jordan valley and Jerusalem is high in the mountains.
SNG 3 6 z3w1 0 What is that Many versions translate this “Who is that.”
SNG 3 6 tjf4 figs-simile 0 like a column of smoke The dust looked like smoke from far away because the people raised much dust in the air as they traveled. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 3 6 w7kr 0 perfumed with myrrh and frankincense Alternate translation: “with the sweet smell of myrrh and frankincense”
SNG 3 6 bf7f figs-ellipsis 0 with all the powders sold by merchants The words “perfumed with” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “perfumed with all the powders sold by merchants” or “and with the sweet smell of all the powders that merchants sell” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
SNG 3 6 sy9j 0 powders a fine dust made by crushing something solid
SNG 3 7 ldh8 0 Look “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully. The speaker now discovers the answer to the question in verse 6.
SNG 3 7 e4uw 0 it is the bed This refers to a bed with a cover that can be carried from one place to another.
SNG 3 7 rd7d figs-doublet 0 sixty warriors surround it, sixty soldiers of Israel These two phrases refer to the same sixty people. The second phrase clarifies that the “warriors” are “soldiers of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
SNG 3 7 u16s 0 warriors men who fight
SNG 3 8 mm7c writing-background 0 A description of the bed itself begins in verse 9. You could use words in your language that show that this is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
SNG 3 8 v2yx 0 are experienced in warfare Alternate translation: “can fight battles well”
SNG 3 8 z9n4 0 armed against Alternate translation: “so that he can fight against”
SNG 3 8 jqy9 figs-abstractnouns 0 terrors of the night Here, “terrors” is a metonym for evil people who frighten others by attacking them. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **terrors**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “evil people who attack others at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 3 9 nnm6 0 sedan chair This is a chair or couch for important people to sit or lie on. It rests on long poles that people can use to carry it
SNG 3 10 f5mj writing-background 0 The description of the bed itself that began in [Song of Songs 3:9](./08.md) continues. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
SNG 3 10 w2at 0 Its posts The word “its” refers to King Solomon’s sedan chair.
SNG 3 10 xnj4 0 posts The word “posts” here refers to pieces either made of silver or made of wood covered with silver that hold up the tent of cloth around his chair.
SNG 3 10 rr69 0 Its interior was Alternate translation: “The inside of it was”
SNG 3 10 apj8 0 with love This could mean: (1) “with love,” indicating that the women made the sedan beautiful in a special way to show their love for Solomon, or (2) “with leather.”
SNG 3 11 i961 0 daughters of Zion Alternate translation: “you young women who live in Zion”
SNG 3 11 sj76 0 gaze on King Solomon “look at King Solomon.” The word “gaze” refers to look at someone or something for a long time, usually with strong emotional feeling.
SNG 3 11 tf1d 0 bearing the crown Alternate translation: “wearing the crown”
SNG 3 11 ei7z figs-metonymy 0 the day of the joy of his heart The word “heart” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “the day on which he truly rejoiced” or “the happiest day of his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 4 intro r3aw 0 # Song of Songs 4 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### “My sister, my bride”<br>The woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
SNG 4 1 rg3f writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
SNG 4 1 m3g6 figs-metaphor 0 Your eyes are doves One possibility is that the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes, the shape of a dove. Another possibility is that the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). Alternate translation: “You are very gentle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 1 z6f7 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
SNG 4 1 pnn4 figs-simile 0 Your hair is like a flock of goats going down from Mount Gilead Goats in Israel were usually dark in color. The woman’s hair was probably dark. You may need to specify that the goats were dark or even use another simile that the reader will understand that refers to something dark and beautiful. People thought of Mount Gilead as beautiful and fertile. The speaker considered the woman beautiful and ready to become the mother of his children. If you remove the simile of the goats, you may have to remove the simile of the mountain as well. Alternate translation: “Your hair is as dark as storm clouds above a fertile land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 4 2 bdg1 figs-simile 0 Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 4 2 cj59 figs-activepassive 0 a flock of newly shorn ewes This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a flock of ewes whose wool people have cut off” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
SNG 4 2 wc12 figs-explicit 0 coming up from the washing place The ewes are coming up out of the water. Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 4 2 jw1w figs-metaphor 0 Each one has a twin Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lambs usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 2 vl9d 0 none among them is bereaved Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth.
SNG 4 2 sb14 0 bereaved lost a loved one who has died
SNG 4 3 t9kf figs-simile 0 are like a thread of scarlet Scarlet is a beautiful red color, and scarlet thread was very expensive. The woman’s lips were red. Alternate translation: “are a deep red like scarlet thread” or “are red and very beautiful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 4 3 v1ae 0 scarlet a dark red color that is very similar to the color of blood
SNG 4 3 q1mk 0 is lovely Alternate translation: “is beautiful”
SNG 4 3 j2a3 figs-simile 0 are like pomegranate halves Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 4 3 y47i 0 behind your veil See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](./01.md).
SNG 4 4 i3qt figs-simile 0 Your neck is like the tower of David No one knows if this was a real tower. A tower is a tall, slender building, and saying that David built it implies that it was beautiful. The man considered the woman’s neck long and slender and so beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your neck is long and beautiful like the tower of David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 4 4 v4ae 0 of David Alternate translation: “that David built”
SNG 4 4 cq2q figs-metaphor 0 built in rows of stone Women had necklaces that covered their entire necks with rows of decorations. The man compares these rows of decorations with the rows of stone on the tower. Alternate translation: “that has many rows of stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
SNG 4 4 c4nk figs-metaphor 0 with a thousand shields The man compares the decorations of the woman’s necklace with shields hanging on the tower. The necklace probably went around her neck many times. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 4 wgq3 translate-numbers 0 a thousand shields “1,000 shields.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
SNG 4 4 swd3 0 all the shields of soldiers Alternate translation: “all of the shields belong to mighty warriors”
SNG 4 5 f8qi 0 two breasts If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it.
SNG 4 5 ea9j figs-simile 0 like two fawns, twins of a gazelle The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 4 5 wd7y 0 twins the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time
SNG 4 5 gu86 0 gazelle an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
SNG 4 5 p33d 0 grazing among the lilies “eating plants among the lilies.” While it is clear that the man “grazing among the lilies” is a metaphor for making love ([Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md)), it is not clear what these words refer to. It is best to translate them literally.
SNG 4 5 bb93 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
SNG 4 6 y1xu 0 Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee away Translate similar wording in this line as you did the line in [Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md).
SNG 4 6 re83 figs-metaphor 0 I will go to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense The “mountain of myrrh” and “hill of frankincense” are metaphors for the woman’s breasts ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md)). Alternate translation: “I will lie close to your breasts, which are like mountains that smell like myrrh and frankincense” or “I will lie close to your breasts, which smell very sweet” or “I will go to the sweet-smelling mountains” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 6 bm4n 0 the mountain of myrrh Alternate translation: “the mountain made of myrrh” or “the mountain that has myrrh growing on it”
SNG 4 6 ekc1 0 the hill of frankincense Alternate translation: “the hill where there are clouds of smoke from burning frankincense in the air”
SNG 4 7 wt7k 0 You are beautiful in every way Alternate translation: “Every part of you is beautiful” or “All of you is beautiful”
SNG 4 7 l1xq 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
SNG 4 7 ci96 0 there is no blemish in you Alternate translation: “you have no blemish”
SNG 4 8 h4yw 0 from Lebanon Alternate translation: “away from Lebanon”
SNG 4 8 j8s2 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife.
SNG 4 8 m2km translate-names 0 Amana the name of a mountain north of Israel (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
SNG 4 8 ir9l translate-names 0 Senir the name of a mountain near Amana and Hermon. Some people think that this refers to the same mountain as Hermon. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
SNG 4 8 ybd2 0 dens places where lions and leopards live, like caves or holes in the ground
SNG 4 9 d7n7 figs-idiom 0 You have stolen my heart This idiom could mean: (1) “My heart now belongs completely to you” or (2) “I strongly desire to make love to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 4 9 vdf7 figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 4 9 k4ah 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:8](./08.md).
SNG 4 9 d83s 0 heart, with just one look at me, with just one jewel “heart. All you have to do is look at me once or show me just one jewel.” Both the woman’s eyes and her jewelry attract the man to her.
SNG 4 9 laj2 0 necklace This necklace probably went around her neck many times ([Song of Songs 4:4](./04.md)).
SNG 4 10 g6qt 0 How beautiful is your love Alternate translation: “Your love is wonderful”
SNG 4 10 v1gy figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 4 10 ibb8 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md).
SNG 4 10 td9x 0 How much better is your love than wine “Your love is much better than wine.” See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 1:2](../01/01.md).
SNG 4 10 ts8k figs-ellipsis 0 the fragrance of your perfume than any spice The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “how much better is the fragrance of your perfume than the fragrance of any spice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
SNG 4 10 wzb4 0 fragrance … perfume See how you translated these words in [Song of Songs 1:3](../01/01.md).
SNG 4 10 r5ni 0 spice dried plants or seeds that have a good smell or taste
SNG 4 11 fw88 figs-metaphor 0 Your lips … drip honey Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 11 vc6y figs-metaphor 0 honey and milk are under your tongue Because “milk and honey” is a common phrase in the Bible, you should translate literally. Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for: (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. Milk is a metaphor for luxury, owning many things that help people enjoy life. When the woman kisses the man, he enjoys life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 11 nyc9 0 the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon “the smell of your clothes is like the smell of Lebanon.” Many cedar trees grew in Lebanon. Cedar trees smell very good, so Lebanon would have smelled sweet and fresh.
SNG 4 12 whp4 figs-idiom 0 My sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md). Alternate translation: “My dear” or “My darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 4 12 nrw6 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md).
SNG 4 12 j45u figs-metaphor 0 is a garden locked up “is a garden that no one can enter.” The garden is a metaphor for the woman, and the lock is a metaphor for her still being a virgin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 12 i5nb figs-metaphor 0 a spring that is sealed “a spring with a cover on it.” The spring or well is a metaphor for the woman, and the cover is a metaphor for her being a virgin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 13 uvg6 figs-euphemism 0 Your branches branches or channels of rivers, a clear euphemism for the female body part. If any reference to this would be offensive, translate it as a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “You” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
SNG 4 13 i3mi 0 a grove a place where many trees grow together
SNG 4 13 eji6 0 with choice fruits Alternate translation: “with the best kinds of fruits”
SNG 4 13 q938 0 nard plants plants that give oil that people used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
SNG 4 13 dju5 0 henna small desert trees that people used as a perfume. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
SNG 4 14 dxj9 0 saffron a spice that comes from the dried parts from the yellow thread in the center of a certain flower
SNG 4 14 ujr7 0 calamus a reed with a pleasant smell that people used to make anointing oil.
SNG 4 14 w1cm 0 cinnamon a spice made from the bark of a tree that people used for cooking
SNG 4 14 kx8c 0 myrrh See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
SNG 4 14 bm3m 0 aloes a type of large plant that had a very sweet smell
SNG 4 14 p646 0 all the finest spices Alternate translation: “all the best spices”
SNG 4 15 z2an figs-metaphor 0 You are a garden spring “You are a spring in a garden.” A garden spring gives sweet, clean water that people enjoy drinking. The man enjoys being close to the woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 15 t9ch 0 fresh water water that is good to drink
SNG 4 15 zl7c 0 streams flowing down from Lebanon Because Lebanon had mountains covered with trees, the streams from Lebanon were clean and cool.
SNG 4 16 jv5g figs-personification 0 Awake, north wind; come, south wind; blow The woman speaks to the north wind and the south wind as though they were people. Alternate translation: “I wish the north wind and south wind would come and blow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
SNG 4 16 x71g 0 Awake, north wind Alternate translation: “North wind, start blowing”
SNG 4 16 l273 figs-metaphor 0 blow on my garden The garden is a metaphor for her body, which she has covered with sweet-smelling oils ([Song of Songs 4:14](./12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 16 kdi9 0 may give off their fragrance Alternate translation: “may send out their good smells”
SNG 4 16 lqh1 figs-metaphor 0 May my beloved … choice fruit The woman is inviting the man to make love to her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 4 16 dp46 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 4 16 mbn7 0 choice fruit Alternate translation: “wonderful fruit”
SNG 5 intro kdw4 0 # Song of Songs 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Verses 2-7 describe a dream the woman had.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “My sister, my bride”<br>The woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
SNG 5 1 zka3 writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
SNG 5 1 m575 0 I have come It is clearly the woman’s lover who is speaking.
SNG 5 1 f2qr figs-metaphor 0 have come into my garden The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 5 1 tgd7 figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 5 1 psq4 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md).
SNG 5 1 lgr1 figs-metaphor 0 myrrh … spice … honeycomb … honey … wine … milk These are all metaphors for the man enjoying the woman’s body ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md), [Song of Songs 2:4](../02/03.md), [Song of Songs 4:11](../04/10.md), and [Song of Songs 4:14](../04/12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 1 sq9d 0 spice plants that have a strong smell or taste
SNG 5 1 i16q figs-metaphor 0 Eat … drink … be drunk with love Eating and drinking are metaphors for making love. Alternate translation: “Make love … make love … make love until you are fully satisfied” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 2 a7v6 figs-euphemism 0 General Information: The fourth part of the book begins here. The young woman uses euphemisms to describe her dream so that it can be interpreted in two different ways: (1) the woman describes a dream about a night when the man came to visit her at her house; and (2) the woman describes a dream about starting to sleep with the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 5 2 biy3 figs-idiom 0 but my heart was awake The heart is the center of thought and feeling. Alternate translation: “but I could think clearly” or “but I knew what I was feeling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 5 2 tk43 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 5 2 qjv8 figs-explicit 0 Open to me This could mean: (1) literal, “Open the door for me,” or (2) metaphorical, “Let me make love to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 2 rx38 figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/09.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 5 2 d52k 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
SNG 5 2 c27j 0 my dove See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md).
SNG 5 2 gaj1 0 undefiled one Alternate translation: “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one”
SNG 5 2 yh2r 0 dew drops of water or mist that form as the night becomes cool
SNG 5 2 d3gt figs-ellipsis 0 my hair with the night’s dampness The words “is wet” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “my hair is wet with the night’s dampness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
SNG 5 3 tr8w figs-quotations 0 “I have taken off my robe … dirty?” This is what the woman thought to herself when she heard the man speak. ([Song of Songs 5:2](./02.md)). This could be translated with the woman saying that this is what she was thinking, or the woman could just explain the situation and her thoughts as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I thought to myself, ‘I have taken off my robe … dirty?’” or “I had taken off my robe and I did not want to put it on again. I had washed my feet and I did not want to get them dirty.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
SNG 5 3 am4r 0 robe thin linen clothing that people wore on their skin
SNG 5 3 g6z2 figs-rquestion 0 must I put it on again? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to put it on again.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
SNG 5 3 r5cm figs-euphemism 0 I have washed my feet While the word “feet” can be a euphemism for private parts, this probably refers to literal feet. The woman seems more likely to want to make love than to want to refrain from lovemaking because she has just bathed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 5 3 h4w3 0 must I get them dirty? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to get them dirty.”
SNG 5 4 w3ff figs-euphemism 0 My beloved put in his hand through the opening of the door latch Possible interpretations are: (1) literal, the lover reaches into the house through a hole in the door in order to open the door or (2) euphemisic, they have begun to make love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 5 4 hqn5 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
SNG 5 4 nns1 0 door latch Alternate translation: “door lock”
SNG 5 5 w3k2 figs-metaphor 0 I got up to open the door for my beloved This could mean: (1) literal, the young woman got out of bed in order to let the man into the house, or (2) metaphorical. Alternate translation: “I prepared myself to make love with my beloved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 5 q3qx figs-euphemism 0 my hands … my fingers … door handle While these may be euphemisms for the woman’s and man’s bodies, it is best to translate literally. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 5 5 ycr1 0 with moist myrrh Alternate translation: “with liquid myrrh”
SNG 5 6 b7qk 0 my beloved See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
SNG 5 6 z8na figs-metaphor 0 My heart sank The heart is a metaphor for the person, and sinking, going down, is a metaphor for becoming weak or sad. Alternate translation: “I was very sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 7 a9yk 0 The watchmen men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
SNG 5 7 rqq4 0 as they were making their rounds in the city “who were walking around the city on the walls.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
SNG 5 7 v79f 0 found me found the woman
SNG 5 7 zhf3 0 struck me Alternate translation: “beat me” or “hit me”
SNG 5 7 q2vt 0 wounded me Alternate translation: “injured me”
SNG 5 7 euu8 0 the guards on the walls Alternate translation: “the men who guard the walls”
SNG 5 7 h38e 0 cloak a garment that people wore over the other clothing on their upper body when they went outdoors in public
SNG 5 8 czu7 0 I want you to swear See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
SNG 5 8 j8ub figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 5 8 w1ul figs-rquestion 0 my beloved—What will you make known to him?—that I am The woman uses a question to introduce what she wants the daughters of Jerusalem to tell her beloved. Alternate translation: “my beloved, this is what I want you to say to him: tell him that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
SNG 5 8 v5m3 figs-metaphor 0 sick from love She loves the man so strongly that she feels sick. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 9 kr5i 0 your beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover”
SNG 5 9 eap5 0 most beautiful among women “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
SNG 5 9 vbc6 0 Why is your beloved better Alternate translation: “What makes your beloved better”
SNG 5 9 rfp3 0 that you ask us to take an oath like this Alternate translation: “and causes you to have us take this oath”
SNG 5 9 zp43 0 an oath like this the oath in [Song of Songs 5:8](./08.md)
SNG 5 10 qb4q 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
SNG 5 10 xuy2 figs-explicit 0 is radiant and ruddy This phrase refers to his complexion. Alternate translation: “has radiant and ruddy skin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 5 10 za1u 0 radiant “is completely healthy” or “is pure.” The man has skin that does not have any problems.
SNG 5 10 rgj8 0 ruddy a healthy color of the skin that is brownish red
SNG 5 10 hms2 figs-metaphor 0 outstanding among ten thousand “the best of 10,000.” Alternate translation: “better than anyone else” or “no one else is like him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
SNG 5 11 s23z figs-metaphor 0 His head is the purest gold The man’s head is as precious to the woman as the purest gold. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 11 m1w4 figs-simile 0 a raven a bird with very black feathers (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 5 12 m6e7 figs-metonymy 0 His eyes are like doves Translate “eyes are like doves” as in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the woman considers the man’s eyes beautiful because the way the man looks at her makes her think he is gentle. Alternate translation: “His eyes are gentle like doves” or (2) the woman is speaking of the man’s white eyeballs or the shape of his eyes, the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 5 12 knr8 figs-metaphor 0 doves beside streams of water Birds that the Israelites considered gentle sitting beside a gently flowing stream are a metaphor for a gentle person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 12 xp2d 0 streams of water Alternate translation: “gently flowing water”
SNG 5 12 tr46 figs-metaphor 0 bathed in milk Milk is a metaphor for the whiteness of the doves. Alternate translation: (1) “doves that are white like milk” or (2) milk is a metaphor for the white part of the man’s eyes. Alternate translation: “his pupils are like doves bathing in white milk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 12 qe85 figs-simile 0 mounted like jewels His eyes are beautiful. Jewels that a craftsman has carefully put in place are beautiful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 5 13 ip4j figs-simile 0 His cheeks … aromatic scents This explains that his cheeks are like beds of spices because they both give off wonderful smells. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 5 13 mtt8 figs-metaphor 0 beds of spices gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. Spices give people pleasure. The man’s body gives the woman pleasure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 13 mem2 0 yielding aromatic scents Alternate translation: “that give off wonderful smells.”
SNG 5 13 a4hu figs-metaphor 0 His lips are lilies The woman probably compares his lips with lilies because they are beautiful and smell wonderful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 13 t4f1 0 lilies See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
SNG 5 13 x8c2 figs-metaphor 0 dripping liquid myrrh “that drip with the best myrrh.” His lips are moist and have a wonderful smell like myrrh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 14 nl6y figs-metaphor 0 His arms are rounded gold set with jewels “His arms are cylinders of gold that have jewels all over them.” The woman uses this image to say that his arms are beautiful and precious. The first readers would have understood this as a metaphor for the male body part ([Song of Songs 5:3](./03.md)), but this would be difficult to bring out in translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 14 bg51 figs-metaphor 0 his abdomen is ivory covered with sapphires “his belly is smooth ivory that has sapphires all over it.” The woman uses this image to say that his belly is beautiful and precious. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 14 k5ga 0 ivory the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make smooth and shiny pieces of art.
SNG 5 14 ws92 0 sapphires valuable stones that are either: (1) blue or (2) clear and either blue or golden
SNG 5 15 i1xz figs-metaphor 0 His legs are pillars of marble, set on bases of pure gold Marble and gold are strong and beautiful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 5 15 juu1 0 marble a very strong stone that has many different colors and that people polish to make very smooth
SNG 5 15 z75c figs-simile 0 his appearance is like Lebanon “he looks like Lebanon.” Lebanon was a very beautiful area with many mountains and cedar trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 5 16 sc8p figs-metonymy 0 His mouth is most sweet The mouth is a metonym for either: (1) the man’s sweet kisses or (2) the sweet words that he says. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 5 16 w3vr 0 he is completely lovely Alternate translation: “every part of him is lovely” or “all of him is lovely”
SNG 5 16 pi1a 0 This is my beloved, and this is my friend The word “This” refers to the man that the woman has just finished describing. Alternate translation: “That is what the one I love is like, and that is what my friend is like”
SNG 5 16 zd7b 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 5 16 r6zc figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 6 intro fa9a 0 # Song of Songs 6 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 1 z4sf writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]. The fifth part of the book begins here.
SNG 6 1 xnv3 0 In what direction has your beloved gone Alternate translation: “Which way did your beloved go”
SNG 6 1 wr5y 0 your beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover” or “the man you love”
SNG 6 1 emy4 0 most beautiful among women “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
SNG 6 1 ise2 figs-explicit 0 gone, so that we may seek him with you? The words “tell us” are understood from the context. They can be stated clearly Alternate translation: “gone? Tell us, so that we can look for him with you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 6 2 vrq9 figs-metaphor 0 My beloved has gone down to his garden The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. See the explanation of this metaphor in [Song of Songs 5:1](../05/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
SNG 6 2 v5x3 figs-metaphor 0 beds of spices gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:13](../05/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 2 w7gn figs-metaphor 0 to graze in the garden and to gather lilies These words are metaphors for the man enjoying her body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 2 st2n figs-metaphor 0 graze “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” ([Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md)) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](../02/01.md)). See how you translated “he grazes” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 2 e94c 0 to gather lilies Alternate translation: “to pick lilies”
SNG 6 2 gp6q 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
SNG 6 3 z5rf 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 6 3 lr7w 0 I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine See how you translated the similar phrase “My beloved is mine, and I am his” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
SNG 6 3 p4l4 0 he grazes among the lilies with pleasure See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
SNG 6 4 q66q 0 General Information: Here begins Part Five of the book
SNG 6 4 xk88 figs-simile 0 as beautiful as Tirzah, my love, as lovely as Jerusalem These cities were famous for being beautiful and pleasant to be in. The man thinks the woman is beautiful, and he takes pleasure in being with her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 6 4 nj8w 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
SNG 6 4 rjr5 0 lovely See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:5](../01/05.md).
SNG 6 4 uwd8 0 as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the man feel helpless, as if an army were approaching him.
SNG 6 5 e85g 0 overwhelm me “terrify me.” The eyes of the woman are so beautiful that it makes the man feel weak and afraid because he cannot resist their power.
SNG 6 5 lbz1 0 Your hair … from the slopes of Gilead Translate “Your hair … from Mount Gilead” as in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
SNG 6 6 lxi1 figs-simile 0 Your teeth are like a flock of ewes After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. See how “Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes” is translated in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 6 6 j7se figs-explicit 0 coming up from the washing place The ewes are coming up out of the water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 6 6 x7hr figs-metaphor 0 Each one has a twin Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lamb usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 6 s4qj 0 none among them is bereaved Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
SNG 6 6 j4u3 0 bereaved lost a loved one who has died. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
SNG 6 7 zid1 figs-simile 0 are like pomegranate halves Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:3](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 6 7 z88b 0 behind your veil See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
SNG 6 8 g963 translate-numbers 0 There are sixty queens, eighty concubines … young women without number These numbers are to be large, then larger, and then beyond counting. Alternate translation: “There are 60 queens, 80 concubines … more young women than anyone could count” or “There are many queens, even more concubines, and more young women than anyone could count” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 6 9 a2hh figs-metaphor 0 My dove The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md). Alternate translation: “You beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 9 dk9e 0 my undefiled “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:2](../05/02.md).
SNG 6 9 m138 figs-hyperbole 0 the only daughter of her mother This is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “her mother’s special daughter” or “completely different from her mother’s other daughters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
SNG 6 9 tej6 0 the woman who bore her “the woman who gave birth to her.” This phrase refers to her mother.
SNG 6 9 wmx6 0 young women … queens … concubines the women spoken of in [Song of Songs 6:8](./08.md).
SNG 6 9 al8y 0 called her blessed Alternate translation: “said that things had gone especially well for her”
SNG 6 10 cw4k 0 General Information: The ULT understands this to be what the queens and the concubines said about the woman. However, some versions understand these to be the words of the man.
SNG 6 10 g6e9 figs-rquestion 0 Who is this who appears like the dawn … banners? They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. Alternate translation: “This is an amazing woman! She comes into view like the dawn … banners!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
SNG 6 10 y3dp figs-simile 0 who appears like the dawn The dawn is beautiful. The woman is beautiful. Alternate translation: “who comes into view like the dawn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 6 10 vb8c figs-simile 0 as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the other women feel helpless, as if an army were approaching them. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 6:4](./04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 6 11 x84j figs-metaphor 0 General Information: The man finishes speaking to himself. Looking to see if plants had matured is probably a metaphor for enjoying the sight of the woman’s body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 6 11 xmc2 0 grove See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:13](../04/12.md).
SNG 6 11 vs9r 0 young growth Alternate translation: “young plants” or “new shoots”
SNG 6 11 qw4q 0 had budded “had grown their buds.” Buds are the small round parts of plants which open up into flowers.
SNG 6 11 w8xh 0 were in bloom Alternate translation: “were opening their flowers”
SNG 6 12 lt9y figs-simile 0 I was so happy that I felt I was riding in the chariot of a prince The man uses this image to express how happy he is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 6 13 u681 0 General Information: This is 7:1, the first verse of chapter seven, in some versions. The ULT understands this to be the friends and the woman talking to each other. Some versions understand this to be the man speaking to the woman.
SNG 6 13 sm5j figs-pronouns 0 Turn back … gaze on you Possible meanings here are: (1) the friends are speaking to the woman or (2) the man is referring to himself in plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
SNG 6 13 x9hk 0 Turn back, turn back “Come back, come back.” This is repeated for emphasis.
SNG 6 13 za54 figs-pronouns 0 we may gaze Some versions understand the plural to refer to the man speaking of himself. Alternate translation: “I may gaze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
SNG 6 13 c258 0 gaze look intently for a long time
SNG 6 13 e2bm figs-pronouns 0 Why do you gaze on the perfect woman … armies Possible meanings here are: (1) the woman refers to herself as another person and is speaking to the friends or (2) the woman is speaking to the man as if he were many men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
SNG 6 13 iqb9 0 as if on the dance between two armies Alternate translation: “as if she were dancing between two armies”
SNG 7 intro hqv7 0 # Song of Songs 7 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Similes<br>There are many similes in this chapter. Their purpose is to describe the beauty of the woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 1 z7jk 0 General Information: This is 7:2, the second verse of chapter seven, in some versions.
SNG 7 1 v8jn figs-explicit 0 How beautiful your feet appear in your sandals It may be that the woman is dancing ([Song of Songs 6:13](../06/13.md)). Alternate translation: “Your feet are so very beautiful in your sandals as you dance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 7 1 k8va 0 prince’s daughter Another possible interpretation is “you who have a noble character.”
SNG 7 1 e9bd figs-simile 0 The curves of your thighs are like jewels The shape of the woman’s thighs remind the speaker of a beautiful precious stone that a skilled workman has carved. Alternate translation: “The curves of your thighs are beautiful like the beautiful curves of jewel that a skilled craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 1 xs8e 0 your thighs The word “thighs” refers to the hips of a woman and the part of her legs that is above her knee.
SNG 7 1 fc12 figs-synecdoche 0 the work of the hands of a master craftsman The hands are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “the work of a master craftsman” or “something that a master craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
SNG 7 2 u88e figs-simile 0 Your navel is like a round bowl A bowl is round. The woman’s navel is round. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 2 dp5a 0 navel the spot on the stomach left from the cord that attaches a baby to its mother
SNG 7 2 n59p figs-metaphor 0 may it never lack mixed wine People used large bowls to mix wine with water or spices at feasts. Drinking wine is a metaphor for enjoying beauty. The litotes can be translated as a positive. Alternate translation: “may it always contain mixed wine” or “may I always enjoy its beauty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
SNG 7 2 q8fy figs-simile 0 Your belly is like a mound of wheat encircled with lilies The Israelites thought mounds of wheat and lilies were pleasant to look at. Much wheat was a sign that there would be much food to eat. They threshed wheat in high, dry places, and lilies grow in low, wet places, so this simile combines beautiful sights that people would not usually see at the same time. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 2 w6nh figs-simile 0 Your belly is like a mound of wheat People thought that the color of wheat was the most beautiful color of skin and that round piles of wheat were beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your belly has a beautiful color and is round like a pile of wheat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 2 ah1p 0 a mound of wheat This is a pile of the grains of wheat after people remove the parts of it that they do not use.
SNG 7 2 cz8d 0 encircled with lilies Alternate translation: “with lilies all around it”
SNG 7 2 ue5r 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
SNG 7 3 jw6n 0 two breasts If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
SNG 7 3 ugf3 figs-simile 0 like two fawns, twins of a gazelle The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 3 jh3u 0 twins the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
SNG 7 3 wr8t 0 gazelle an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
SNG 7 4 uv17 figs-simile 0 Your neck is like a tower of ivory A tower is long and straight. Ivory is white. The woman’s neck is long and straight, and her skin is light in color. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 4 b1sy 0 a tower of ivory Alternate translation: “a tower that people have decorated with ivory”
SNG 7 4 xgt7 0 ivory the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make art and to make things look beautiful.
SNG 7 4 h4ih figs-metaphor 0 your eyes are the pools in Heshbon The woman’s eyes are spoken of as if they are clear pools of water. Pools of water are clear and sparkle in the sunlight and so are pleasant to look at. The woman’s eyes are clear and sparkle and so are pleasant to look at. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “your eyes are as clear as the pools in Heshbon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 4 md6s translate-names 0 Heshbon This is the name of a city east of the Jordan River (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
SNG 7 4 r1vf translate-names 0 Bath Rabbim This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
SNG 7 4 a4vg figs-simile 0 nose is like the tower in Lebanon A tower is tall and straight, and her nose is tall and straight. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 4 s23k figs-metonymy 0 that looks toward Damascus The tower looking is a metonym for people on the tower looking. Alternate translation: “that allows people to look toward Damascus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 7 5 jn22 figs-simile 0 Your head is on you like Carmel Mount Carmel is higher than everything else around it. The man wants to look at the woman’s head more than at anything else. Alternate translation: “Your head is on you like a crown, higher than anything else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 5 sr83 0 dark purple Other possible translations are: (1) “dark black” or (2) “dark red.”
SNG 7 5 hkk7 figs-metaphor 0 The king is held captive by its tresses This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Your hair that hangs down is so beautiful that the king is not able to stop admiring it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
SNG 7 5 l5e5 0 tresses the clusters of hair that hang down from a woman’s head
SNG 7 6 hqx3 0 my love, with delights Alternate translation: “my love. You delight me”
SNG 7 7 j31f 0 General Information: The man describes what he would like to do with the woman .
SNG 7 7 jy1s figs-simile 0 Your height is like that of a date palm tree “You stand up like a date palm tree.” Date palm trees are tall and straight, and their branches are only at the top, with the fruit under the branches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 7 f6me 0 date palm tree a tall, straight tree that produces a sweet, brown, and sticky fruit that grows in groups
SNG 7 7 jr1v figs-simile 0 your breasts like clusters of fruit The dates on a palm tree grow soft and round in large bunches that hang from the tree just below the branches, which are all at the top. The woman’s breasts are soft and round and are just lower than her arms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 8 p7ge 0 I said “I thought” or “I said to myself.” The man said this silently.
SNG 7 8 r1b3 figs-metaphor 0 I want to climb … its branches The man wants to embrace the woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 7 8 w5g3 figs-simile 0 May your breasts be like clusters of grapes The man wants to touch her breasts. Clusters of grapes are round and soft. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 8 zfb8 figs-simile 0 may the fragrance of your nose be like apricots The word “nose” is a metonym for the breath coming out of the nose. Alternate translation: “may the breath coming from your nose smell sweet like apricots” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 8 f9is 0 apricots sweet yellow fruit
SNG 7 9 yrg1 figs-metonymy 0 May your palate be like the best wine The palate is a metonym for the lips. Wine tastes good. The man wants to kiss the woman’s lips. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 7 9 rq12 0 flowing smoothly for my beloved “that flows smoothly for the one I love.” The man enjoys the smooth kisses of the woman.
SNG 7 9 ed64 0 gliding over the lips of those who sleep Alternate translation: “that flows over our lips as we sleep”
SNG 7 10 k7zq 0 I am my beloved’s See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 6:3](../06/01.md).
SNG 7 10 j44v 0 my beloved’s This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one’s” or “my lover’s”
SNG 7 10 a143 0 he desires me Alternate translation: “he wants to make love to me” or “he wants me”
SNG 7 11 bhr6 0 spend the night in the villages Though the words here translated “spends the night” and “villages” appear together in [Song of Songs 1:13-14](../01/12.md) as “spends the night” and “henna flowers,” and the context both here and there is lovemaking, the ULT chooses this reading because the immediate metaphor is of the man and woman sleeping in the village, rising in the morning, and going out into the vineyards. The word for “henna plants” and the word for “villages” sound exactly the same.
SNG 7 12 iii6 0 rise early Alternate translation: “get up early” or “wake up early”
SNG 7 12 cs6n 0 have budded Alternate translation: “have begun to bloom”
SNG 7 12 r952 0 blossoms flowers when they are open
SNG 7 12 ukd9 0 are in flower Alternate translation: “have flowers open on the plant”
SNG 7 12 q3a4 0 I will give you my love Alternate translation: “I will make love with you”
SNG 7 13 v61b translate-unknown 0 mandrakes This is the name of plants that give off a strong but pleasant scent. The scent is slightly intoxicating and stimulating, which increases the desire to make love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
SNG 7 13 alp4 0 give off their fragrance Alternate translation: “produce their scent” or “smell very nice”
SNG 7 13 xbk7 figs-explicit 0 at the door The doors belong to their house. Alternate translation: “above the entrances of our house” or “by the doors of our house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 7 13 c2ah 0 are all sorts of choice fruits, new and old Alternate translation: “is every kind of the best fruit, both old fruit and new fruit”
SNG 7 13 jsb8 0 stored up for you Alternate translation: “saved so I can give to you”
SNG 7 13 h8r2 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 8 intro d35n 0 # Song of Songs 8 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Kisses<br>The kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### Passion<br>The chapter describes the passion that can exist between a husband a wife. This is the feeling of strong or uncontrollable desire for another person.
SNG 8 1 me7m writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
SNG 8 1 dp21 figs-simile 0 you were like my brother A woman could show affection for her brother in public. This woman wanted to be able to show affection for the man in public. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 8 1 v5fh 0 you outside Alternate translation: “you in public”
SNG 8 1 zyd6 0 I could kiss you A woman would probably kiss her brother on his cheek order to greet him.
SNG 8 1 ec82 0 would despise me Alternate translation: “would think that I am a bad person”
SNG 8 2 i6ch figs-explicit 0 she who taught me taught her how to make love (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 8 2 s68s figs-metaphor 0 I would give you spiced wine to drink and some of the juice of my pomegranates The woman uses these images to say that she will give herself to the man and make love with him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 2 au41 figs-metaphor 0 spiced wine “wine with spices” or “wine that has spices in it.” This represents the intoxicating power of lovemaking. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 3 s92v 0 His left hand … embraces me See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:6](../02/05.md).
SNG 8 3 e5cp 0 left hand … right hand Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
SNG 8 3 v65k 0 embraces me Alternate translation: “holds me”
SNG 8 4 z8a4 0 I want you to swear See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md)
SNG 8 4 rk33 figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 8 4 qg8i 0 that you will … until it pleases See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
SNG 8 5 a5w5 0 General Information: The fifth part of the book begins here.
SNG 8 5 xxv3 figs-rquestion 0 Who is this who is coming up They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. A similar phrase was translated in [Song of Songs 6:10](../06/10.md). Alternate translation: “Look at this amazing woman as she comes up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
SNG 8 5 p4rr 0 I awakened you Alternate translation: “I woke you up” or “I aroused you”
SNG 8 5 zfa2 0 the apricot tree a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:3](../02/03.md).
SNG 8 5 g9tp 0 there under the apricot tree
SNG 8 5 d4ub 0 she delivered you Alternate translation: “she bore you”
SNG 8 6 jr5m figs-metaphor 0 Set me as a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm This could mean: (1) because seals were very important, people always kept them around their neck or on their hand. The woman wants to be with the man constantly like a seal, or (2) a seal shows who owns the thing that has the seal on it, and the woman wants herself as the seal on the man’s heart and arm to show that all of his thoughts, emotions, and actions belong to her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 8 6 yzj4 figs-simile 0 for love is as strong as death Death is very strong because it overcomes even the most powerful people of the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 8 6 tci8 figs-simile 0 as unrelenting as Sheol “as tough as Sheol.” Sheol never allows people to come back to life after they have already died. Love is as persistent as Sheol because it never changes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 8 6 fvz9 figs-metaphor 0 its flames burst out … any other fire Love is very powerful like fire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 6 tw71 0 burst out Alternate translation: “burn suddenly”
SNG 8 7 baf6 figs-metaphor 0 Surging waters cannot quench love Love is so strong that it is like a fire that is so hot that it cannot be put out even with an ocean full of water. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 7 j6mc 0 Surging waters Alternate translation: “Oceans of water” or “Huge amounts of water”
SNG 8 7 dd1i 0 cannot quench Alternate translation: “cannot extinguish” or “cannot put out”
SNG 8 7 e1ej figs-metaphor 0 nor can floods sweep it away Love never changes and always stays the same so it is like something that not even a powerful flood can move. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 7 dju9 0 floods In Israel, water from the rain flows into deep and narrow valleys. This creates a flood of water so powerful that it can move huge boulders and trees.
SNG 8 7 kqk9 0 sweep it away Alternate translation: “carry it away” or “wash it away”
SNG 8 7 jwh1 figs-hypo 0 If a man gave … the offer would utterly be despised This is something that could possibly happen. Alternate translation: “Even if a man … he would be utterly despised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
SNG 8 7 g5ja 0 gave offered to give
SNG 8 7 l4u3 0 all the possessions in his house Alternate translation: “everything he owns”
SNG 8 7 n3pn 0 for love Alternate translation: “in order to get love” or “in order to buy love”
SNG 8 7 nt2s figs-activepassive 0 the offer would utterly be despised This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people would completely despise him” or “people would harshly ridicule him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
SNG 8 8 au5a 0 little sister Alternate translation: “young sister”
SNG 8 8 t852 figs-rquestion 0 What can we do … in marriage? The speaker uses this question to introduce what he wants to say. Alternate translation: “This is what we will do … in marriage.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
SNG 8 8 g5fp figs-idiom 0 she will be promised in marriage This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a man comes and wants to marry her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
SNG 8 9 mpf5 0 General Information: The young woman’s brothers continue to speak among themselves.
SNG 8 9 x3j1 figs-metaphor 0 If she is a wall … If she is a door The little sister ([Song of Songs 8:8](./08.md)) has very small breasts that either have not grown or are very small. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 9 am5u figs-metaphor 0 we will build on her a tower of silver … we will adorn her with boards of cedar The brothers decide to decorate the little sister with silver and cedar, symbols of riches, so that she will be more likely to attract a good husband. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 9 cnw3 0 will adorn her Alternate translation: “will decorate her”
SNG 8 10 n2vy figs-metaphor 0 I was a wall The wall is a metaphor for a woman with small breasts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 10 mc78 figs-simile 0 my breasts are now like fortress towers Fortress towers are tall. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
SNG 8 10 rll2 figs-metonymy 0 I am in his eyes as one Here eyes are a metonym for judgment or value. Alternate translation: “I am in his judgment as one” or “he thinks of me as one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 8 10 b5uu figs-explicit 0 brings peace You may need to make explicit to whom the woman brings peace. Alternate translation: “brings him peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
SNG 8 10 hi47 0 peace Alternate translation: “well-being”
SNG 8 11 tt74 0 General Information: Possible interpretations: (1) The woman contrasts the way she wants to give herself to the man, who will give her his love, to the way Solomon leases out his vineyard to those who will give him money. (2) The man contrasts the woman, whom he will not give to another man, to Solomon’s vineyard, which he gave to other men.
SNG 8 11 x2c3 translate-names 0 Baal Hamon This is the name of a town in the northern part of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
SNG 8 11 mz3u 0 gave the vineyard leased, agreed to let other people pay him so they could grow grapes in the vineyard
SNG 8 11 b1b3 0 to those who would maintain it Alternate translation: “to people who would take care of it”
SNG 8 11 h77m figs-ellipsis 0 Each one was to bring a thousand shekels of silver for its fruit It may be helpful to state that this payment was for the fruit of the vineyard. Alternate translation: “Each man was supposed to give Solomon a thousand shekels as payment for the fruit of the vineyard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
SNG 8 11 t2dp translate-bmoney 0 to bring a thousand shekels of silver “to bring 1,000 shekels of silver.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
SNG 8 11 e3jp 0 shekels Alternate translation: “coins”
SNG 8 11 mm2j figs-apostrophe 0 Solomon Some versions understand the woman to be speaking directly to Solomon. Others understand her to be speaking in an apostrophe to her friends, to the man, or to herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
SNG 8 12 za66 figs-metaphor 0 My vineyard, my very own The woman refers to herself as a vineyard, as in [Song of Songs 1:6](../01/05.md). Here she emphasizes that she and no one else will decide what she dies with the “vineyard.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
SNG 8 12 gc75 figs-idiom 0 is before me This is an idiom that means the a person has the right to do what they want with something. Alternate translation: “is at my disposal” or “is mine to do with as I desire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
SNG 8 12 tl1c 0 the thousand shekels are for you, Solomon The woman knows that Solomon has leased out the vineyard so he can get money, but she does not want money.
SNG 8 12 t7u1 0 the two hundred shekels The speaker has not mentioned these before, but the hearer would understand that she is speaking of the money that those who worked the vineyard would have left for their own after they paid Solomon.
SNG 8 13 dp6s figs-you 0 You who live The man is speaking to the woman, so “you” and “live” are feminine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
SNG 8 13 zm5h figs-metonymy 0 listening for your voice The voice is a metonym for what the person says. If your language has a word for thinking only of what one is listening for, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “waiting to hear you start speaking” or “waiting to hear what you have to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
SNG 8 13 ew6z 0 let me hear it Alternate translation: “let me hear your voice.”
SNG 8 14 vrp7 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
SNG 8 14 zh44 0 like a gazelle or a young stag See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](../02/08.md).
SNG 8 14 yhn7 0 gazelle a type of slender deer-like animal with long curved horns
SNG 8 14 gp9l 0 stag an adult male deer
SNG 8 14 mqx9 figs-metaphor 0 the mountains of spices “the mountains that have spices all over them.” The woman uses this metaphor to invite the man to make love to her. See how the man uses the metaphor of a mountain of myrrh and a hill of frankincense in [Song of Songs 4:6](../04/06.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1 Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote
2 SNG front intro an3g 0 # Introduction to the Song of Songs<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Song of Songs<br><br>1. The bride longs for the bridegroom to arrive (1:1–2:7)<br>1. The bridegroom praises the woman he loves (2:8–3:5)<br>1. The bridegroom arrives and praises the bride (3:6–5:1)<br>1. The bride longs for the bridegroom (5:2–6:9)<br>1. The bridegroom praises the beauty of his bride (6:1–8:4)<br>1. Final thoughts about love between a man and a woman (8:5–14)<br><br>### What is the Song of Songs about?<br><br>The Song of Songs is a poem or a series of poems that celebrate love and intimacy between a man and a woman. Jews traditionally have interpreted the book as a picture of God’s love for his people Israel. In the same way, many Christians interpret it as a picture of love between Christ and his bride, the church of all believers.<br><br>### Who wrote the Song of Songs?<br><br>The first verse of the book (“The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s”) gives the idea that King Solomon of Israel wrote it. However, people have interpreted this verse in different ways, so not everyone is persuaded that Solomon wrote it.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>This book is traditionally titled “Song of Songs,” which means the very best song, or “Song of Solomon.” It may also be called “Songs of Love,” “Great Poems of Love,” or “The Love Songs of Solomon.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What place do the descriptions of sexual behavior have in the Song of Songs?<br><br>The Song of Songs approves of sexual behavior expressing love between a husband his wife.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How many characters are in the Song of Songs?<br><br>The two main characters in this book are the man and the woman, who love each other. The woman also speaks to a group of women called the “daughters of Jerusalem,” and these women make comments. However, it is possible that the group of women is not real and the woman is only imagining them.<br><br>Some interpreters believe there may be more characters than these, but this is not certain. The ULT and UST versions recognize only the man, the woman, and the group of women.<br><br>### What are the lines about people speaking?<br><br>The Song of Songs is a poem that shows the thoughts and words of a man, a woman, and the woman’s friends. Throughout the poem, the author does not identify the speakers and their audience. So to help readers understand the poem, some translations attempt to identify the speaker and the audience. It is not always certain who the speaker is, so sometimes translations disagree about who is speaking.<br><br>Before each speech, the ULT identifies the speaker and the audience like this: “The woman speaking to the other women,” “The woman speaking to the man,” “The man speaking to the woman,” or “The woman speaking to herself.” Translators are encouraged to include these ways of identifying the speaker and the audience, and to format them differently from the scripture text. The translators should also include a note explaining that these explanations are not actually part of the scripture.<br><br>### How should one translate the Song of Songs if the readers will view certain terms as coarse, vulgar, or improper?<br><br>Readers might consider many images or forms appearing in the Song of Songs as improper when translated. The translator should try to avoid offensive language if possible, by using expressions that will not cause offense. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])<br><br>### How do I translate metaphors and similes in this book?<br><br>There are many metaphors and similes in this book. These figures of speech are often unclear. If they have sexual meanings, figures of speech describing feelings or emotions are often used to avoid offense by hiding their meaning. However, since their meanings are often unclear, ambiguity in translation is encouraged. You can translate the words as they are written in order to avoid committing to a specific meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3 SNG 1 intro xrm2 0 # Song of Songs 1 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Kisses<br>The kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### Love and affection<br>This chapter is centered on the feelings of love, affection, and attraction. Different cultural standards may make translation difficult and the translator may use euphemisms to avoid offending people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “I am dark”<br>In the ancient Near East, rich people usually had lighter skin because they did not need to work outside in the sun. This young woman had to work out in the sun, and her skin became darker than it was when she was younger.
4 SNG 1 1 fna4 writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
5 SNG 1 1 qbe2 0 The Song of Songs Alternate translation: “The Best Song” or “The Most Excellent Song”
6 SNG 1 1 r5ns 0 which is Solomon’s Possible meanings are “which is about Solomon” or “which Solomon composed.”
7 SNG 1 2 j5xq 0 General Information: The first part of the book begins with this verse.
8 SNG 1 2 nze7 0 your love is better than wine Alternate translation: “I enjoy having you near me more than I enjoy drinking wine”
9 SNG 1 3 si36 0 Your anointing oils Alternate translation: “The oils that you put on your body”
10 SNG 1 3 d9r7 0 have a delightful fragrance Alternate translation: “smell wonderful”
11 SNG 1 3 z9t3 figs-simile 0 your name is like flowing perfume Perfume has a good smell that spreads as the air moves. The name is either a metonym for: (1) the person’s reputation, what other people think of him. Here the speaker says that people always think that the hearer is a good person, or (2) the person himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
12 SNG 1 4 v83t figs-you 0 with you “The word “you” refers to the man and so is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
13 SNG 1 4 gec8 figs-metaphor 0 Take “Pull” or “Drag.” Here the woman described as being like a captive who is willing to follow her captor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
14 SNG 1 4 ty2p figs-exclusive 0 we will run The word “we” refers to the young woman together with the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
15 SNG 1 4 isr6 figs-pronouns 0 We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate The woman speaks of herself as if she were more than one person. Many versions change the pronoun to “I” as the UST does. Other versions present these as the words of the woman’s friends speaking about either the woman or the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
16 SNG 1 4 at7l 0 about you Alternate translation: “because of you”
17 SNG 1 4 geq4 0 let us celebrate Alternate translation: “let us praise”
18 SNG 1 4 ag8r 0 It is natural for the other women to adore you Alternate translation: “Women who adore you are doing as they should do”
19 SNG 1 5 ez2x 0 I am dark but lovely Alternate translation: “My skin is dark, but I am still beautiful” or “Even though my skin is dark, I am beautiful”
20 SNG 1 5 rbb3 figs-simile 0 dark like the tents of Kedar The nomadic tribes in Kedar used black goat skins to build their homes. The woman is comparing her skin to these tents. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
21 SNG 1 5 dc13 figs-simile 0 lovely like the curtains of Solomon Solomon produced beautiful curtains either for his own palace or for the Temple. She says that her skin is beautiful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
22 SNG 1 6 thz7 figs-hyperbole 0 scorched This exaggeration for “burned” or “made black” refers to the sun changing her skin from light to dark. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
23 SNG 1 6 fz9h 0 My mother’s sons “My half-brothers.” These brothers probably had the same mother as the woman but not the same father.
24 SNG 1 6 v86f 0 made me keeper of the vineyards Alternate translation: “made me take care of the vineyards”
25 SNG 1 6 w18k figs-metaphor 0 but my own vineyard I have not kept The woman compares herself to a vineyard. Alternate translation: “but I have not been able to take care of myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
26 SNG 1 7 f9hi figs-metonymy 0 my soul loves The soul is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “I love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
27 SNG 1 7 v54w 0 feed your flock Alternate translation: “graze your flocks”
28 SNG 1 7 f5eb 0 rest your flock Alternate translation: “have your flock lie down”
29 SNG 1 7 v6rs figs-rquestion 0 Why should I be like someone who wanders beside the flocks of your companions? The woman asks this question to emphasize that she has a closer relationship to the man than other women do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Tell me so that I will not need to wander around among the flocks of your companions when I am looking for you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
30 SNG 1 7 bq95 figs-metaphor 0 who wanders “who goes all around.” She does not want to have to look for the man. Perhaps she is afraid other men will think she is a prostitute looking for business. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
31 SNG 1 7 b552 0 your companions Alternate translation: “your friends” or “your co-workers”
32 SNG 1 8 nky4 0 most beautiful among women Alternate translation: “you who are the most beautiful of all women”
33 SNG 1 8 al9c 0 follow the tracks of my flock Alternate translation: “follow along behind the flock”
34 SNG 1 8 i8sl 0 tracks marks of the hooves of the flock on the ground
35 SNG 1 8 fis9 0 pasture your young goats Alternate translation: “graze your young goats” or “let your young goats eat”
36 SNG 1 9 gw76 figs-simile 0 I compare you, my love, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariot horses The Jews of those days considered horses beautiful, and the Pharaoh’s horses would have been the most beautiful he could find. The man considers the young woman beautiful. Alternate translation: “My love, you are as beautiful as any of Pharaoh’s chariot horses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
37 SNG 1 9 l3q7 0 my love Alternate translation: “you whom I love”
38 SNG 1 9 zyj5 0 Pharaoh’s chariot horses Alternate translation: “the horses that pull Pharaoh’s chariots”
39 SNG 1 10 u7h9 figs-metaphor 0 Your cheeks are beautiful with ornaments These ornaments could be: (1) jewels hanging from a band around the head or (2) earrings or (3) a metaphor for her long hair. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
40 SNG 1 11 dza7 figs-pronouns 0 We will make The man speaks as if he were many people. Some versions change this to singular “I.” Other versions take these to be the words of the woman’s friends. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
41 SNG 1 11 bp6l 0 with silver studs Alternate translation: “with spots of silver”
42 SNG 1 12 zt7d 0 lay on his couch “sat eating his special meal.” This probably refers to one of the couches on which people would lie around a table at a banquet. You could translate using the common word for what people do with their bodies when they eat special meals.
43 SNG 1 12 ur66 0 nard an oil that people got from the expensive nard or spikenard (valerian plant with small pink or white flowers) and used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor.
44 SNG 1 12 lp8f 0 emitted its fragrance Alternate translation: “gave off its good smell”
45 SNG 1 13 vc5v figs-simile 0 My beloved is to me like a bag of myrrh … breasts Women would place a small bag or pouch of myrrh on a necklace so it would lie between their breasts and they could enjoy its pleasant fragrance. This woman enjoys having her beloved close to her. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy having a bag of myrrh … breasts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
46 SNG 1 13 bzs7 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
47 SNG 1 13 f8y8 figs-euphemism 0 lying between my breasts If this phrase would offend your readers, you could use a euphemism. Alternate translation: “close to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
48 SNG 1 14 zh75 figs-simile 0 My beloved is to me like a cluster of henna flowers Henna flowers have a fragrance that people enjoy. The woman enjoys her beloved. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy the smell of clusters of henna flowers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
49 SNG 1 14 a6jk 0 henna flowers flowers from a small desert tree that people used as a perfume
50 SNG 1 15 x2d5 0 Listen, you Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
51 SNG 1 15 m114 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](./09.md)
52 SNG 1 15 fb4x figs-metonymy 0 your eyes are doves This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. Alternate translation: “you are very gentle” or (2) the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes as being like the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
53 SNG 1 16 sbi4 0 Listen, you Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
54 SNG 1 16 km29 0 handsome Use the word in your language that describes a good-looking man.
55 SNG 1 16 x3pr 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
56 SNG 1 16 q43e figs-metaphor 0 lush plants are our bed This speaks of the lush plants as if they were a bed. Alternate translation: “lush plants are what we lie down on to sleep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
57 SNG 1 16 xed8 0 The lush plants plants that are green, moist, and grow abundantly
58 SNG 1 17 v14z figs-metaphor 0 The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are firs The woman describes the forest as though it were a house in which they were lying down. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59 SNG 1 17 q6r8 0 beams … rafters This could mean: (1) “beams” refers to large logs used to support everything above the walls and “rafters” refers to the large pieces of wood to which the roof is attached or (2) “beams” refers to the rafters and “rafters” refers to the strips attached to the beams, onto which the builders attached the roofing materials.
60 SNG 1 17 c3e5 translate-unknown 0 cedars … firs Cedars were large and strong trees. The word translated “firs” is a general term for trees like cedars but smaller. If cedar and fir trees are unknown in your area, you could use general terms for the tallest and strongest trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
61 SNG 2 intro u8uv 0 # Song of Songs 2 General Notes<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>Women are compared to flowers in this chapter. This metaphor may describe a woman’s beauty and delicacy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Euphemisms<br>It is possible that some of the metaphors used in this chapter are actually euphemisms. These euphemisms would refer to sex or the physical love between a husband a wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
62 SNG 2 1 bw25 writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
63 SNG 2 1 cne2 figs-metaphor 0 I am a meadow flower of Sharon The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
64 SNG 2 1 ni5p 0 Sharon the name of a land that is flat, has no trees, and grows many different kinds of grasses and flowers
65 SNG 2 1 vve6 figs-metaphor 0 lily of the valleys The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
66 SNG 2 1 nt8f 0 lily a sweet smelling flower that grows in places where there is much water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md).
67 SNG 2 1 e9ke 0 valleys flat areas between mountains and near water
68 SNG 2 2 ibi6 figs-simile 0 As a lily among thorns … young women A flower is much more beautiful than a thorn bush. The man thinks the woman is much more beautiful than the other women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
69 SNG 2 2 bi45 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
70 SNG 2 2 y9bu 0 the young women Alternate translation: “the other young women”
71 SNG 2 3 xz7y figs-simile 0 As an apricot tree … the young men People enjoy the fruit of an apricot tree, but the trees of the forest do not bear fruit. The woman enjoys being with the man, but not with the other young men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
72 SNG 2 3 yr6x 0 apricot tree a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.”
73 SNG 2 3 wf4u 0 the forest The Hebrew word here refers to land where trees grow for which people have no use.
74 SNG 2 3 q7kl 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
75 SNG 2 3 pii3 figs-metaphor 0 I sit down under his shadow with great delight The woman finds great joy and comfort in being so near to the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
76 SNG 2 3 b5ai figs-metaphor 0 his fruit is sweet to my taste The woman enjoys eating sweet fruit, and she enjoys being near to the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
77 SNG 2 4 ift6 0 the house of wine This could mean: (1) the very large room where the king would serve many people large meals with wine or (2) a small booth in a vineyard where the man and woman could be alone together.
78 SNG 2 4 rp8q figs-metonymy 0 his banner over me was love This could mean: (1) the banner is a metonym for a military escort. And, the military escort is a metaphor that represents the man’s love which gives courage to the woman who was nervous to enter the large room where the king served many people. Alternate translation: “but his loving protection guided me and gave me courage” or (2) the woman knew that the man wanted to make love to her from the way he looked at her. Alternate translation: “he looked at me lovingly” or “when he looked at me, I knew he wanted to make love to me” or (3) they made love. Alternate translation: “he lovingly covered me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
79 SNG 2 5 uxb2 0 Revive me Alternate translation: “Return my strength” or “Give me energy”
80 SNG 2 5 khc1 0 with raisin cakes “by giving me raisin cakes to eat.” Raisin cakes were cakes made of dried grapes pressed together.
81 SNG 2 5 gs2a 0 refresh me with apricots Alternate translation: “support me by giving me apricots” or “help me by giving me apricots”
82 SNG 2 5 y4qy figs-metaphor 0 for I am weak with love The woman speaks of feeling weak because her love is so strong as if love were a kind of sickness. Alternate translation: “because my love is so strong that I feel feeble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
83 SNG 2 6 m6ys 0 left hand … right hand Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
84 SNG 2 6 fq8w 0 embraces me Alternate translation: “holds me”
85 SNG 2 7 l67b figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
86 SNG 2 7 n4wq figs-apostrophe 0 by the gazelles and the does of the fields Although the daughters of Jerusalem could not hear her, the woman speaks to them as if they could hear saying that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
87 SNG 2 7 sz5c 0 the gazelles These are animals that look like deer and move quickly.
88 SNG 2 7 nt79 0 does female deer
89 SNG 2 7 w94r 0 of the fields “that live in the countryside.” This was land that has not been farmed.
90 SNG 2 7 ekc3 figs-personification 0 will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
91 SNG 2 7 fz3j figs-doublet 0 will not awaken or arouse If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
92 SNG 2 8 aay2 0 General Information: The second part of the book begins here. It is not clear whether the woman is speaking to herself or to the daughters of Jerusalem.
93 SNG 2 8 j2nl 0 Listen This could mean: (1) “Listen carefully to what I am about to say.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully, or (2) “Listen so you can hear him coming.”
94 SNG 2 8 rn51 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
95 SNG 2 8 dm9e 0 leaping … jumping The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
96 SNG 2 8 fr67 figs-metaphor 0 leaping over the mountains, jumping over the hills “leaping on the mountains, running quickly on the hills.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 9) coming quickly toward her over rough ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
97 SNG 2 9 l5ni 0 gazing … peering The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
98 SNG 2 9 f2lu figs-simile 0 like a gazelle or a young stag Gazelles and young stags move quickly over rough ground. The woman imagines the man coming as fast as he can to be with her. You could translate using animals in your language that people think of as fast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
99 SNG 2 9 kq5f 0 a gazelle This is an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “the gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
100 SNG 2 9 qbs9 0 a young stag Alternate translation: “a young male deer”
101 SNG 2 9 s6z4 0 look “listen carefully” or “what I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
102 SNG 2 9 umf5 0 behind our wall “on the other side of our wall.” The woman is in a house and the man is outside the house.
103 SNG 2 9 be2w figs-exclusive 0 our wall The word “our” refers to the woman and the other people in the house with her. If she is speaking to herself, it is inclusive, but if she is speaking to the daughters of Jerusalem, whether she is referring to herself and her companions or to herself only in plural, as in “We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate” ([Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md)), it is exclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
104 SNG 2 9 kf9u 0 gazing through the window Alternate translation: “he stares in through the windows”
105 SNG 2 9 s9xt 0 peering through the lattice Alternate translation: “he peeks through the lattice”
106 SNG 2 9 z1bl 0 lattice a cover for a window or some other entrance that someone has made by weaving long strips of wood together. Lattices have holes that people can look through.
107 SNG 2 10 hl12 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
108 SNG 2 10 pah1 0 Arise, my love Alternate translation: “Get out of bed, my love”
109 SNG 2 10 fff7 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
110 SNG 2 11 yv91 0 Look “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
111 SNG 2 11 eyh9 0 the winter is past; the rain is over and gone In winter it is too cold and wet to make love outside, but the cold, wet time has passed.
112 SNG 2 11 e658 0 the winter is past Winter is the cold time of year when plants do not grow and people prefer to stay inside their houses. You could use the term in your language for that time of year.
113 SNG 2 11 f4hz 0 the rain is over and gone In Israel it only rains during the winter. The rain here is cold and unpleasant, not the refreshing rain of the hot season.
114 SNG 2 12 wfw3 0 The flowers have appeared Alternate translation: “People can see flowers”
115 SNG 2 12 j8f3 0 in the land Alternate translation: “all over this land”
116 SNG 2 12 sv72 0 for pruning for cutting off branches from a plant so that it will produce more fruit or look better
117 SNG 2 12 x3li 0 the singing of birds Alternate translation: “for birds to sing”
118 SNG 2 12 zmw4 figs-activepassive 0 the sound of the doves is heard This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people can hear the sound of doves” or “the doves are cooing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
119 SNG 2 13 mk2y figs-personification 0 The fig tree ripens her green figs The tree is spoken of as if it were actively causing its fruit to ripen. This is a collective singular and can be translated as a plural. Alternate translation: “The figs on the trees are becoming ripe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
120 SNG 2 13 ef3j 0 vines are in blossom Alternate translation: “vines are flowering” or “vines have flowers”
121 SNG 2 13 xhn3 0 they give off The word “they” refers to the blossoms on the vines.
122 SNG 2 13 wjr7 0 their fragrance Alternate translation: “their sweet smell”
123 SNG 2 13 m4mt 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
124 SNG 2 14 a7lp 0 General Information: The man is speaking.
125 SNG 2 14 wv7q figs-metaphor 0 My dove The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. Alternate translation: “My beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
126 SNG 2 14 eju1 0 the clefts large cracks in the side of mountain rocks large enough for people to hide in
127 SNG 2 14 afg5 0 the mountain crags Alternate translation: “the steep rocks on the sides of the mountains”
128 SNG 2 14 bhl6 0 your face Some versions translate this as “your appearance” or “your form” or “what you look like.”
129 SNG 2 15 pu8l figs-you 0 Catch This is plural, as if the woman is speaking to more than one man, but most versions translate who she is speaking to as the man, so you could translate this as singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
130 SNG 2 15 xns5 figs-metaphor 0 the foxes These animals look like small dogs and were often used in love poetry to represent eager young men who would spoil a young woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
131 SNG 2 15 v31m figs-exclusive 0 for us … our vineyard The words **us** and **our** could possibly be: (1) exclusive, referring to the woman herself, as in [Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md), or (2) inclusive, referring to the woman and the man, or (3) exclusive, referring to the woman and the rest of her family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
132 SNG 2 15 dac9 0 foxes Another possible meaning is “jackals.” A jackal is a type of thin wild dog with long legs.
133 SNG 2 15 wl95 figs-metaphor 0 the little foxes that spoil Foxes spoil or destroy vineyards by digging holes and eating vines and grapes. This could be a metaphor for young men who spoil young women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
134 SNG 2 15 r16k figs-metaphor 0 in blossom This implies that the vineyard is healthy and the grapes have appeared, but they are not ready for harvest. This could be a metaphor for a young lady ready for marriage and bearing children. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:13](./12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
135 SNG 2 16 zb2r 0 My beloved is mine Alternate translation: “My beloved belongs to me”
136 SNG 2 16 lxy4 0 I am his Alternate translation: “I belong to him”
137 SNG 2 16 n6c3 figs-metaphor 0 he grazes “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 17) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
138 SNG 2 16 x5db 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](./01.md).
139 SNG 2 17 b3kg 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
140 SNG 2 17 p2uq 0 dawn the part of the day when the sun is rising
141 SNG 2 17 lz3y figs-metaphor 0 the shadows flee away The woman describes the shadows as though they were running away from the light of the sun. Alternate translation: “the shadows disappear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
142 SNG 2 17 d8mw 0 like a gazelle or a young stag See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](./08.md).
143 SNG 2 17 vlw3 0 gazelle an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
144 SNG 2 17 l8dz 0 stag an adult male deer
145 SNG 2 17 ia1r 0 rugged mountains Alternate translation: “rocky mountains” or “rough mountains”
146 SNG 3 intro t72h 0 # Song of Songs 3 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Longing<br>This chapter describes a feeling of longing, or the waiting in anticipation of the one you love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
147 SNG 3 1 l1kv 0 I was longing for him … could not find him Alternate translation: “I had a strong desire to be with him … loves, but he was not there”
148 SNG 3 1 hu3u figs-metonymy 0 him whom my soul loves The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
149 SNG 3 2 uyu7 0 go through the city Alternate translation: “walk through the city”
150 SNG 3 2 x9ki 0 through the streets and squares The word “squares” indicates the center area of a town where streets or roads come together. It is often an area where people sell items, a market, and a place where people come together to talk.
151 SNG 3 2 afu9 0 will search Alternate translation: “will to look for”
152 SNG 3 3 rdd5 0 watchmen men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe
153 SNG 3 3 b9j2 0 as they were making their rounds in the city Alternate translation: “who were walking around the city on the walls”
154 SNG 3 3 pab8 figs-metonymy 0 him whom my soul loves The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:1](./01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
155 SNG 3 4 p5k2 0 the bedroom Alternate translation: “the room for sleeping”
156 SNG 3 4 ri8e figs-metonymy 0 the one who had conceived me This is a metonym for her mother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
157 SNG 3 5 a3y1 0 General Information: Translate this verse as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
158 SNG 3 5 t61g figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
159 SNG 3 5 qw1m figs-apostrophe 0 by the gazelles and the does of the fields Although the daughters of Jerusalem are not there to hear her, the woman is telling them that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
160 SNG 3 5 b4r5 0 the gazelles animals that look like deer and move quickly.
161 SNG 3 5 ruq7 0 does female deer
162 SNG 3 5 n2aq 0 of the fields “that live in the countryside.” This refers to land that has not been farmed.
163 SNG 3 5 cm9r figs-personification 0 will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
164 SNG 3 5 dbf9 figs-doublet 0 will not awaken or arouse If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
165 SNG 3 6 e1ly 0 General Information: The third part of the book begins here. It begins with a description of sixty men carrying Solomon’s bed up from the wilderness to Jerusalem.
166 SNG 3 6 y8wr 0 What is that coming up from the wilderness The group of people is traveling from the wilderness to Jerusalem. They must go up in order to reach Jerusalem because the wilderness is low in the Jordan valley and Jerusalem is high in the mountains.
167 SNG 3 6 z3w1 0 What is that Many versions translate this “Who is that.”
168 SNG 3 6 tjf4 figs-simile 0 like a column of smoke The dust looked like smoke from far away because the people raised much dust in the air as they traveled. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
169 SNG 3 6 w7kr 0 perfumed with myrrh and frankincense Alternate translation: “with the sweet smell of myrrh and frankincense”
170 SNG 3 6 bf7f figs-ellipsis 0 with all the powders sold by merchants The words “perfumed with” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “perfumed with all the powders sold by merchants” or “and with the sweet smell of all the powders that merchants sell” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
171 SNG 3 6 sy9j 0 powders a fine dust made by crushing something solid
172 SNG 3 7 ldh8 0 Look “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully. The speaker now discovers the answer to the question in verse 6.
173 SNG 3 7 e4uw 0 it is the bed This refers to a bed with a cover that can be carried from one place to another.
174 SNG 3 7 rd7d figs-doublet 0 sixty warriors surround it, sixty soldiers of Israel These two phrases refer to the same sixty people. The second phrase clarifies that the “warriors” are “soldiers of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
175 SNG 3 7 u16s 0 warriors men who fight
176 SNG 3 8 mm7c writing-background 0 A description of the bed itself begins in verse 9. You could use words in your language that show that this is background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
177 SNG 3 8 v2yx 0 are experienced in warfare Alternate translation: “can fight battles well”
178 SNG 3 8 z9n4 0 armed against Alternate translation: “so that he can fight against”
179 SNG 3 8 jqy9 figs-abstractnouns 0 terrors of the night Here, “terrors” is a metonym for evil people who frighten others by attacking them. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **terrors**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “evil people who attack others at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
180 SNG 3 9 nnm6 0 sedan chair This is a chair or couch for important people to sit or lie on. It rests on long poles that people can use to carry it
181 SNG 3 10 f5mj writing-background 0 The description of the bed itself that began in [Song of Songs 3:9](./08.md) continues. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
182 SNG 3 10 w2at 0 Its posts The word “its” refers to King Solomon’s sedan chair.
183 SNG 3 10 xnj4 0 posts The word “posts” here refers to pieces either made of silver or made of wood covered with silver that hold up the tent of cloth around his chair.
184 SNG 3 10 rr69 0 Its interior was Alternate translation: “The inside of it was”
185 SNG 3 10 apj8 0 with love This could mean: (1) “with love,” indicating that the women made the sedan beautiful in a special way to show their love for Solomon, or (2) “with leather.”
186 SNG 3 11 i961 0 daughters of Zion Alternate translation: “you young women who live in Zion”
187 SNG 3 11 sj76 0 gaze on King Solomon “look at King Solomon.” The word “gaze” refers to look at someone or something for a long time, usually with strong emotional feeling.
188 SNG 3 11 tf1d 0 bearing the crown Alternate translation: “wearing the crown”
189 SNG 3 11 ei7z figs-metonymy 0 the day of the joy of his heart The word “heart” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “the day on which he truly rejoiced” or “the happiest day of his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
190 SNG 4 intro r3aw 0 # Song of Songs 4 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### “My sister, my bride”<br>The woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
191 SNG 4 1 rg3f writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
192 SNG 4 1 m3g6 figs-metaphor 0 Your eyes are doves One possibility is that the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes, the shape of a dove. Another possibility is that the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). Alternate translation: “You are very gentle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
193 SNG 4 1 z6f7 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
194 SNG 4 1 pnn4 figs-simile 0 Your hair is like a flock of goats going down from Mount Gilead Goats in Israel were usually dark in color. The woman’s hair was probably dark. You may need to specify that the goats were dark or even use another simile that the reader will understand that refers to something dark and beautiful. People thought of Mount Gilead as beautiful and fertile. The speaker considered the woman beautiful and ready to become the mother of his children. If you remove the simile of the goats, you may have to remove the simile of the mountain as well. Alternate translation: “Your hair is as dark as storm clouds above a fertile land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
195 SNG 4 2 bdg1 figs-simile 0 Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
196 SNG 4 2 cj59 figs-activepassive 0 a flock of newly shorn ewes This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a flock of ewes whose wool people have cut off” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
197 SNG 4 2 wc12 figs-explicit 0 coming up from the washing place The ewes are coming up out of the water. Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
198 SNG 4 2 jw1w figs-metaphor 0 Each one has a twin Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lambs usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
199 SNG 4 2 vl9d 0 none among them is bereaved Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth.
200 SNG 4 2 sb14 0 bereaved lost a loved one who has died
201 SNG 4 3 t9kf figs-simile 0 are like a thread of scarlet Scarlet is a beautiful red color, and scarlet thread was very expensive. The woman’s lips were red. Alternate translation: “are a deep red like scarlet thread” or “are red and very beautiful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
202 SNG 4 3 v1ae 0 scarlet a dark red color that is very similar to the color of blood
203 SNG 4 3 q1mk 0 is lovely Alternate translation: “is beautiful”
204 SNG 4 3 j2a3 figs-simile 0 are like pomegranate halves Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
205 SNG 4 3 y47i 0 behind your veil See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](./01.md).
206 SNG 4 4 i3qt figs-simile 0 Your neck is like the tower of David No one knows if this was a real tower. A tower is a tall, slender building, and saying that David built it implies that it was beautiful. The man considered the woman’s neck long and slender and so beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your neck is long and beautiful like the tower of David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
207 SNG 4 4 v4ae 0 of David Alternate translation: “that David built”
208 SNG 4 4 cq2q figs-metaphor 0 built in rows of stone Women had necklaces that covered their entire necks with rows of decorations. The man compares these rows of decorations with the rows of stone on the tower. Alternate translation: “that has many rows of stone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
209 SNG 4 4 c4nk figs-metaphor 0 with a thousand shields The man compares the decorations of the woman’s necklace with shields hanging on the tower. The necklace probably went around her neck many times. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
210 SNG 4 4 wgq3 translate-numbers 0 a thousand shields “1,000 shields.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
211 SNG 4 4 swd3 0 all the shields of soldiers Alternate translation: “all of the shields belong to mighty warriors”
212 SNG 4 5 f8qi 0 two breasts If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it.
213 SNG 4 5 ea9j figs-simile 0 like two fawns, twins of a gazelle The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
214 SNG 4 5 wd7y 0 twins the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time
215 SNG 4 5 gu86 0 gazelle an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
216 SNG 4 5 p33d 0 grazing among the lilies “eating plants among the lilies.” While it is clear that the man “grazing among the lilies” is a metaphor for making love ([Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md)), it is not clear what these words refer to. It is best to translate them literally.
217 SNG 4 5 bb93 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
218 SNG 4 6 y1xu 0 Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee away Translate similar wording in this line as you did the line in [Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md).
219 SNG 4 6 re83 figs-metaphor 0 I will go to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense The “mountain of myrrh” and “hill of frankincense” are metaphors for the woman’s breasts ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md)). Alternate translation: “I will lie close to your breasts, which are like mountains that smell like myrrh and frankincense” or “I will lie close to your breasts, which smell very sweet” or “I will go to the sweet-smelling mountains” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
220 SNG 4 6 bm4n 0 the mountain of myrrh Alternate translation: “the mountain made of myrrh” or “the mountain that has myrrh growing on it”
221 SNG 4 6 ekc1 0 the hill of frankincense Alternate translation: “the hill where there are clouds of smoke from burning frankincense in the air”
222 SNG 4 7 wt7k 0 You are beautiful in every way Alternate translation: “Every part of you is beautiful” or “All of you is beautiful”
223 SNG 4 7 l1xq 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
224 SNG 4 7 ci96 0 there is no blemish in you Alternate translation: “you have no blemish”
225 SNG 4 8 h4yw 0 from Lebanon Alternate translation: “away from Lebanon”
226 SNG 4 8 j8s2 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife.
227 SNG 4 8 m2km translate-names 0 Amana the name of a mountain north of Israel (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
228 SNG 4 8 ir9l translate-names 0 Senir the name of a mountain near Amana and Hermon. Some people think that this refers to the same mountain as Hermon. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
229 SNG 4 8 ybd2 0 dens places where lions and leopards live, like caves or holes in the ground
230 SNG 4 9 d7n7 figs-idiom 0 You have stolen my heart This idiom could mean: (1) “My heart now belongs completely to you” or (2) “I strongly desire to make love to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
231 SNG 4 9 vdf7 figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
232 SNG 4 9 k4ah 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:8](./08.md).
233 SNG 4 9 d83s 0 heart, with just one look at me, with just one jewel “heart. All you have to do is look at me once or show me just one jewel.” Both the woman’s eyes and her jewelry attract the man to her.
234 SNG 4 9 laj2 0 necklace This necklace probably went around her neck many times ([Song of Songs 4:4](./04.md)).
235 SNG 4 10 g6qt 0 How beautiful is your love Alternate translation: “Your love is wonderful”
236 SNG 4 10 v1gy figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
237 SNG 4 10 ibb8 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md).
238 SNG 4 10 td9x 0 How much better is your love than wine “Your love is much better than wine.” See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 1:2](../01/01.md).
239 SNG 4 10 ts8k figs-ellipsis 0 the fragrance of your perfume than any spice The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “how much better is the fragrance of your perfume than the fragrance of any spice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
240 SNG 4 10 wzb4 0 fragrance … perfume See how you translated these words in [Song of Songs 1:3](../01/01.md).
241 SNG 4 10 r5ni 0 spice dried plants or seeds that have a good smell or taste
242 SNG 4 11 fw88 figs-metaphor 0 Your lips … drip honey Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
243 SNG 4 11 vc6y figs-metaphor 0 honey and milk are under your tongue Because “milk and honey” is a common phrase in the Bible, you should translate literally. Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for: (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. Milk is a metaphor for luxury, owning many things that help people enjoy life. When the woman kisses the man, he enjoys life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
244 SNG 4 11 nyc9 0 the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon “the smell of your clothes is like the smell of Lebanon.” Many cedar trees grew in Lebanon. Cedar trees smell very good, so Lebanon would have smelled sweet and fresh.
245 SNG 4 12 whp4 figs-idiom 0 My sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md). Alternate translation: “My dear” or “My darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
246 SNG 4 12 nrw6 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md).
247 SNG 4 12 j45u figs-metaphor 0 is a garden locked up “is a garden that no one can enter.” The garden is a metaphor for the woman, and the lock is a metaphor for her still being a virgin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
248 SNG 4 12 i5nb figs-metaphor 0 a spring that is sealed “a spring with a cover on it.” The spring or well is a metaphor for the woman, and the cover is a metaphor for her being a virgin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
249 SNG 4 13 uvg6 figs-euphemism 0 Your branches branches or channels of rivers, a clear euphemism for the female body part. If any reference to this would be offensive, translate it as a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “You” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
250 SNG 4 13 i3mi 0 a grove a place where many trees grow together
251 SNG 4 13 eji6 0 with choice fruits Alternate translation: “with the best kinds of fruits”
252 SNG 4 13 q938 0 nard plants plants that give oil that people used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
253 SNG 4 13 dju5 0 henna small desert trees that people used as a perfume. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
254 SNG 4 14 dxj9 0 saffron a spice that comes from the dried parts from the yellow thread in the center of a certain flower
255 SNG 4 14 ujr7 0 calamus a reed with a pleasant smell that people used to make anointing oil.
256 SNG 4 14 w1cm 0 cinnamon a spice made from the bark of a tree that people used for cooking
257 SNG 4 14 kx8c 0 myrrh See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
258 SNG 4 14 bm3m 0 aloes a type of large plant that had a very sweet smell
259 SNG 4 14 p646 0 all the finest spices Alternate translation: “all the best spices”
260 SNG 4 15 z2an figs-metaphor 0 You are a garden spring “You are a spring in a garden.” A garden spring gives sweet, clean water that people enjoy drinking. The man enjoys being close to the woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
261 SNG 4 15 t9ch 0 fresh water water that is good to drink
262 SNG 4 15 zl7c 0 streams flowing down from Lebanon Because Lebanon had mountains covered with trees, the streams from Lebanon were clean and cool.
263 SNG 4 16 jv5g figs-personification 0 Awake, north wind; come, south wind; blow The woman speaks to the north wind and the south wind as though they were people. Alternate translation: “I wish the north wind and south wind would come and blow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
264 SNG 4 16 x71g 0 Awake, north wind Alternate translation: “North wind, start blowing”
265 SNG 4 16 l273 figs-metaphor 0 blow on my garden The garden is a metaphor for her body, which she has covered with sweet-smelling oils ([Song of Songs 4:14](./12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
266 SNG 4 16 kdi9 0 may give off their fragrance Alternate translation: “may send out their good smells”
267 SNG 4 16 lqh1 figs-metaphor 0 May my beloved … choice fruit The woman is inviting the man to make love to her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
268 SNG 4 16 dp46 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
269 SNG 4 16 mbn7 0 choice fruit Alternate translation: “wonderful fruit”
270 SNG 5 intro kdw4 0 # Song of Songs 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Verses 2-7 describe a dream the woman had.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “My sister, my bride”<br>The woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
271 SNG 5 1 zka3 writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
272 SNG 5 1 m575 0 I have come It is clearly the woman’s lover who is speaking.
273 SNG 5 1 f2qr figs-metaphor 0 have come into my garden The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
274 SNG 5 1 tgd7 figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
275 SNG 5 1 psq4 0 my bride This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md).
276 SNG 5 1 lgr1 figs-metaphor 0 myrrh … spice … honeycomb … honey … wine … milk These are all metaphors for the man enjoying the woman’s body ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md), [Song of Songs 2:4](../02/03.md), [Song of Songs 4:11](../04/10.md), and [Song of Songs 4:14](../04/12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
277 SNG 5 1 sq9d 0 spice plants that have a strong smell or taste
278 SNG 5 1 i16q figs-metaphor 0 Eat … drink … be drunk with love Eating and drinking are metaphors for making love. Alternate translation: “Make love … make love … make love until you are fully satisfied” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
279 SNG 5 2 a7v6 figs-euphemism 0 General Information: The fourth part of the book begins here. The young woman uses euphemisms to describe her dream so that it can be interpreted in two different ways: (1) the woman describes a dream about a night when the man came to visit her at her house; and (2) the woman describes a dream about starting to sleep with the man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
280 SNG 5 2 biy3 figs-idiom 0 but my heart was awake The heart is the center of thought and feeling. Alternate translation: “but I could think clearly” or “but I knew what I was feeling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
281 SNG 5 2 tk43 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
282 SNG 5 2 qjv8 figs-explicit 0 Open to me This could mean: (1) literal, “Open the door for me,” or (2) metaphorical, “Let me make love to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
283 SNG 5 2 rx38 figs-idiom 0 my sister This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/09.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
284 SNG 5 2 d52k 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
285 SNG 5 2 c27j 0 my dove See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md).
286 SNG 5 2 gaj1 0 undefiled one Alternate translation: “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one”
287 SNG 5 2 yh2r 0 dew drops of water or mist that form as the night becomes cool
288 SNG 5 2 d3gt figs-ellipsis 0 my hair with the night’s dampness The words “is wet” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “my hair is wet with the night’s dampness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
289 SNG 5 3 tr8w figs-quotations 0 “I have taken off my robe … dirty?” This is what the woman thought to herself when she heard the man speak. ([Song of Songs 5:2](./02.md)). This could be translated with the woman saying that this is what she was thinking, or the woman could just explain the situation and her thoughts as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I thought to myself, ‘I have taken off my robe … dirty?’” or “I had taken off my robe and I did not want to put it on again. I had washed my feet and I did not want to get them dirty.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
290 SNG 5 3 am4r 0 robe thin linen clothing that people wore on their skin
291 SNG 5 3 g6z2 figs-rquestion 0 must I put it on again? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to put it on again.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
292 SNG 5 3 r5cm figs-euphemism 0 I have washed my feet While the word “feet” can be a euphemism for private parts, this probably refers to literal feet. The woman seems more likely to want to make love than to want to refrain from lovemaking because she has just bathed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
293 SNG 5 3 h4w3 0 must I get them dirty? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to get them dirty.”
294 SNG 5 4 w3ff figs-euphemism 0 My beloved put in his hand through the opening of the door latch Possible interpretations are: (1) literal, the lover reaches into the house through a hole in the door in order to open the door or (2) euphemisic, they have begun to make love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
295 SNG 5 4 hqn5 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
296 SNG 5 4 nns1 0 door latch Alternate translation: “door lock”
297 SNG 5 5 w3k2 figs-metaphor 0 I got up to open the door for my beloved This could mean: (1) literal, the young woman got out of bed in order to let the man into the house, or (2) metaphorical. Alternate translation: “I prepared myself to make love with my beloved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
298 SNG 5 5 q3qx figs-euphemism 0 my hands … my fingers … door handle While these may be euphemisms for the woman’s and man’s bodies, it is best to translate literally. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
299 SNG 5 5 ycr1 0 with moist myrrh Alternate translation: “with liquid myrrh”
300 SNG 5 6 b7qk 0 my beloved See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
301 SNG 5 6 z8na figs-metaphor 0 My heart sank The heart is a metaphor for the person, and sinking, going down, is a metaphor for becoming weak or sad. Alternate translation: “I was very sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
302 SNG 5 7 a9yk 0 The watchmen men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
303 SNG 5 7 rqq4 0 as they were making their rounds in the city “who were walking around the city on the walls.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
304 SNG 5 7 v79f 0 found me found the woman
305 SNG 5 7 zhf3 0 struck me Alternate translation: “beat me” or “hit me”
306 SNG 5 7 q2vt 0 wounded me Alternate translation: “injured me”
307 SNG 5 7 euu8 0 the guards on the walls Alternate translation: “the men who guard the walls”
308 SNG 5 7 h38e 0 cloak a garment that people wore over the other clothing on their upper body when they went outdoors in public
309 SNG 5 8 czu7 0 I want you to swear See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
310 SNG 5 8 j8ub figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
311 SNG 5 8 w1ul figs-rquestion 0 my beloved—What will you make known to him?—that I am The woman uses a question to introduce what she wants the daughters of Jerusalem to tell her beloved. Alternate translation: “my beloved, this is what I want you to say to him: tell him that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
312 SNG 5 8 v5m3 figs-metaphor 0 sick from love She loves the man so strongly that she feels sick. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
313 SNG 5 9 kr5i 0 your beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover”
314 SNG 5 9 eap5 0 most beautiful among women “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
315 SNG 5 9 vbc6 0 Why is your beloved better Alternate translation: “What makes your beloved better”
316 SNG 5 9 rfp3 0 that you ask us to take an oath like this Alternate translation: “and causes you to have us take this oath”
317 SNG 5 9 zp43 0 an oath like this the oath in [Song of Songs 5:8](./08.md)
318 SNG 5 10 qb4q 0 My beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
319 SNG 5 10 xuy2 figs-explicit 0 is radiant and ruddy This phrase refers to his complexion. Alternate translation: “has radiant and ruddy skin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
320 SNG 5 10 za1u 0 radiant “is completely healthy” or “is pure.” The man has skin that does not have any problems.
321 SNG 5 10 rgj8 0 ruddy a healthy color of the skin that is brownish red
322 SNG 5 10 hms2 figs-metaphor 0 outstanding among ten thousand “the best of 10,000.” Alternate translation: “better than anyone else” or “no one else is like him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
323 SNG 5 11 s23z figs-metaphor 0 His head is the purest gold The man’s head is as precious to the woman as the purest gold. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
324 SNG 5 11 m1w4 figs-simile 0 a raven a bird with very black feathers (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
325 SNG 5 12 m6e7 figs-metonymy 0 His eyes are like doves Translate “eyes are like doves” as in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the woman considers the man’s eyes beautiful because the way the man looks at her makes her think he is gentle. Alternate translation: “His eyes are gentle like doves” or (2) the woman is speaking of the man’s white eyeballs or the shape of his eyes, the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
326 SNG 5 12 knr8 figs-metaphor 0 doves beside streams of water Birds that the Israelites considered gentle sitting beside a gently flowing stream are a metaphor for a gentle person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
327 SNG 5 12 xp2d 0 streams of water Alternate translation: “gently flowing water”
328 SNG 5 12 tr46 figs-metaphor 0 bathed in milk Milk is a metaphor for the whiteness of the doves. Alternate translation: (1) “doves that are white like milk” or (2) milk is a metaphor for the white part of the man’s eyes. Alternate translation: “his pupils are like doves bathing in white milk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
329 SNG 5 12 qe85 figs-simile 0 mounted like jewels His eyes are beautiful. Jewels that a craftsman has carefully put in place are beautiful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
330 SNG 5 13 ip4j figs-simile 0 His cheeks … aromatic scents This explains that his cheeks are like beds of spices because they both give off wonderful smells. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
331 SNG 5 13 mtt8 figs-metaphor 0 beds of spices gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. Spices give people pleasure. The man’s body gives the woman pleasure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
332 SNG 5 13 mem2 0 yielding aromatic scents Alternate translation: “that give off wonderful smells.”
333 SNG 5 13 a4hu figs-metaphor 0 His lips are lilies The woman probably compares his lips with lilies because they are beautiful and smell wonderful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
334 SNG 5 13 t4f1 0 lilies See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
335 SNG 5 13 x8c2 figs-metaphor 0 dripping liquid myrrh “that drip with the best myrrh.” His lips are moist and have a wonderful smell like myrrh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
336 SNG 5 14 nl6y figs-metaphor 0 His arms are rounded gold set with jewels “His arms are cylinders of gold that have jewels all over them.” The woman uses this image to say that his arms are beautiful and precious. The first readers would have understood this as a metaphor for the male body part ([Song of Songs 5:3](./03.md)), but this would be difficult to bring out in translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
337 SNG 5 14 bg51 figs-metaphor 0 his abdomen is ivory covered with sapphires “his belly is smooth ivory that has sapphires all over it.” The woman uses this image to say that his belly is beautiful and precious. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
338 SNG 5 14 k5ga 0 ivory the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make smooth and shiny pieces of art.
339 SNG 5 14 ws92 0 sapphires valuable stones that are either: (1) blue or (2) clear and either blue or golden
340 SNG 5 15 i1xz figs-metaphor 0 His legs are pillars of marble, set on bases of pure gold Marble and gold are strong and beautiful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
341 SNG 5 15 juu1 0 marble a very strong stone that has many different colors and that people polish to make very smooth
342 SNG 5 15 z75c figs-simile 0 his appearance is like Lebanon “he looks like Lebanon.” Lebanon was a very beautiful area with many mountains and cedar trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
343 SNG 5 16 sc8p figs-metonymy 0 His mouth is most sweet The mouth is a metonym for either: (1) the man’s sweet kisses or (2) the sweet words that he says. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
344 SNG 5 16 w3vr 0 he is completely lovely Alternate translation: “every part of him is lovely” or “all of him is lovely”
345 SNG 5 16 pi1a 0 This is my beloved, and this is my friend The word “This” refers to the man that the woman has just finished describing. Alternate translation: “That is what the one I love is like, and that is what my friend is like”
346 SNG 5 16 zd7b 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
347 SNG 5 16 r6zc figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
348 SNG 6 intro fa9a 0 # Song of Songs 6 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br>In the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
349 SNG 6 1 z4sf writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]. The fifth part of the book begins here.
350 SNG 6 1 xnv3 0 In what direction has your beloved gone Alternate translation: “Which way did your beloved go”
351 SNG 6 1 wr5y 0 your beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover” or “the man you love”
352 SNG 6 1 emy4 0 most beautiful among women “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
353 SNG 6 1 ise2 figs-explicit 0 gone, so that we may seek him with you? The words “tell us” are understood from the context. They can be stated clearly Alternate translation: “gone? Tell us, so that we can look for him with you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
354 SNG 6 2 vrq9 figs-metaphor 0 My beloved has gone down to his garden The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. See the explanation of this metaphor in [Song of Songs 5:1](../05/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
355 SNG 6 2 v5x3 figs-metaphor 0 beds of spices gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:13](../05/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
356 SNG 6 2 w7gn figs-metaphor 0 to graze in the garden and to gather lilies These words are metaphors for the man enjoying her body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
357 SNG 6 2 st2n figs-metaphor 0 graze “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” ([Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md)) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](../02/01.md)). See how you translated “he grazes” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
358 SNG 6 2 e94c 0 to gather lilies Alternate translation: “to pick lilies”
359 SNG 6 2 gp6q 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
360 SNG 6 3 z5rf 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
361 SNG 6 3 lr7w 0 I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine See how you translated the similar phrase “My beloved is mine, and I am his” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
362 SNG 6 3 p4l4 0 he grazes among the lilies with pleasure See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
363 SNG 6 4 q66q 0 General Information: Here begins Part Five of the book
364 SNG 6 4 xk88 figs-simile 0 as beautiful as Tirzah, my love, as lovely as Jerusalem These cities were famous for being beautiful and pleasant to be in. The man thinks the woman is beautiful, and he takes pleasure in being with her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
365 SNG 6 4 nj8w 0 my love “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
366 SNG 6 4 rjr5 0 lovely See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:5](../01/05.md).
367 SNG 6 4 uwd8 0 as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the man feel helpless, as if an army were approaching him.
368 SNG 6 5 e85g 0 overwhelm me “terrify me.” The eyes of the woman are so beautiful that it makes the man feel weak and afraid because he cannot resist their power.
369 SNG 6 5 lbz1 0 Your hair … from the slopes of Gilead Translate “Your hair … from Mount Gilead” as in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
370 SNG 6 6 lxi1 figs-simile 0 Your teeth are like a flock of ewes After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. See how “Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes” is translated in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
371 SNG 6 6 j7se figs-explicit 0 coming up from the washing place The ewes are coming up out of the water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
372 SNG 6 6 x7hr figs-metaphor 0 Each one has a twin Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lamb usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
373 SNG 6 6 s4qj 0 none among them is bereaved Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
374 SNG 6 6 j4u3 0 bereaved lost a loved one who has died. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
375 SNG 6 7 zid1 figs-simile 0 are like pomegranate halves Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:3](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
376 SNG 6 7 z88b 0 behind your veil See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
377 SNG 6 8 g963 translate-numbers 0 There are sixty queens, eighty concubines … young women without number These numbers are to be large, then larger, and then beyond counting. Alternate translation: “There are 60 queens, 80 concubines … more young women than anyone could count” or “There are many queens, even more concubines, and more young women than anyone could count” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
378 SNG 6 9 a2hh figs-metaphor 0 My dove The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md). Alternate translation: “You beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
379 SNG 6 9 dk9e 0 my undefiled “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:2](../05/02.md).
380 SNG 6 9 m138 figs-hyperbole 0 the only daughter of her mother This is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “her mother’s special daughter” or “completely different from her mother’s other daughters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
381 SNG 6 9 tej6 0 the woman who bore her “the woman who gave birth to her.” This phrase refers to her mother.
382 SNG 6 9 wmx6 0 young women … queens … concubines the women spoken of in [Song of Songs 6:8](./08.md).
383 SNG 6 9 al8y 0 called her blessed Alternate translation: “said that things had gone especially well for her”
384 SNG 6 10 cw4k 0 General Information: The ULT understands this to be what the queens and the concubines said about the woman. However, some versions understand these to be the words of the man.
385 SNG 6 10 g6e9 figs-rquestion 0 Who is this who appears like the dawn … banners? They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. Alternate translation: “This is an amazing woman! She comes into view like the dawn … banners!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
386 SNG 6 10 y3dp figs-simile 0 who appears like the dawn The dawn is beautiful. The woman is beautiful. Alternate translation: “who comes into view like the dawn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
387 SNG 6 10 vb8c figs-simile 0 as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the other women feel helpless, as if an army were approaching them. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 6:4](./04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
388 SNG 6 11 x84j figs-metaphor 0 General Information: The man finishes speaking to himself. Looking to see if plants had matured is probably a metaphor for enjoying the sight of the woman’s body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
389 SNG 6 11 xmc2 0 grove See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:13](../04/12.md).
390 SNG 6 11 vs9r 0 young growth Alternate translation: “young plants” or “new shoots”
391 SNG 6 11 qw4q 0 had budded “had grown their buds.” Buds are the small round parts of plants which open up into flowers.
392 SNG 6 11 w8xh 0 were in bloom Alternate translation: “were opening their flowers”
393 SNG 6 12 lt9y figs-simile 0 I was so happy that I felt I was riding in the chariot of a prince The man uses this image to express how happy he is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
394 SNG 6 13 u681 0 General Information: This is 7:1, the first verse of chapter seven, in some versions. The ULT understands this to be the friends and the woman talking to each other. Some versions understand this to be the man speaking to the woman.
395 SNG 6 13 sm5j figs-pronouns 0 Turn back … gaze on you Possible meanings here are: (1) the friends are speaking to the woman or (2) the man is referring to himself in plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
396 SNG 6 13 x9hk 0 Turn back, turn back “Come back, come back.” This is repeated for emphasis.
397 SNG 6 13 za54 figs-pronouns 0 we may gaze Some versions understand the plural to refer to the man speaking of himself. Alternate translation: “I may gaze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
398 SNG 6 13 c258 0 gaze look intently for a long time
399 SNG 6 13 e2bm figs-pronouns 0 Why do you gaze on the perfect woman … armies Possible meanings here are: (1) the woman refers to herself as another person and is speaking to the friends or (2) the woman is speaking to the man as if he were many men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
400 SNG 6 13 iqb9 0 as if on the dance between two armies Alternate translation: “as if she were dancing between two armies”
401 SNG 7 intro hqv7 0 # Song of Songs 7 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Beauty<br>The woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Similes<br>There are many similes in this chapter. Their purpose is to describe the beauty of the woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
402 SNG 7 1 z7jk 0 General Information: This is 7:2, the second verse of chapter seven, in some versions.
403 SNG 7 1 v8jn figs-explicit 0 How beautiful your feet appear in your sandals It may be that the woman is dancing ([Song of Songs 6:13](../06/13.md)). Alternate translation: “Your feet are so very beautiful in your sandals as you dance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
404 SNG 7 1 k8va 0 prince’s daughter Another possible interpretation is “you who have a noble character.”
405 SNG 7 1 e9bd figs-simile 0 The curves of your thighs are like jewels The shape of the woman’s thighs remind the speaker of a beautiful precious stone that a skilled workman has carved. Alternate translation: “The curves of your thighs are beautiful like the beautiful curves of jewel that a skilled craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
406 SNG 7 1 xs8e 0 your thighs The word “thighs” refers to the hips of a woman and the part of her legs that is above her knee.
407 SNG 7 1 fc12 figs-synecdoche 0 the work of the hands of a master craftsman The hands are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “the work of a master craftsman” or “something that a master craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
408 SNG 7 2 u88e figs-simile 0 Your navel is like a round bowl A bowl is round. The woman’s navel is round. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
409 SNG 7 2 dp5a 0 navel the spot on the stomach left from the cord that attaches a baby to its mother
410 SNG 7 2 n59p figs-metaphor 0 may it never lack mixed wine People used large bowls to mix wine with water or spices at feasts. Drinking wine is a metaphor for enjoying beauty. The litotes can be translated as a positive. Alternate translation: “may it always contain mixed wine” or “may I always enjoy its beauty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
411 SNG 7 2 q8fy figs-simile 0 Your belly is like a mound of wheat encircled with lilies The Israelites thought mounds of wheat and lilies were pleasant to look at. Much wheat was a sign that there would be much food to eat. They threshed wheat in high, dry places, and lilies grow in low, wet places, so this simile combines beautiful sights that people would not usually see at the same time. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
412 SNG 7 2 w6nh figs-simile 0 Your belly is like a mound of wheat People thought that the color of wheat was the most beautiful color of skin and that round piles of wheat were beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your belly has a beautiful color and is round like a pile of wheat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
413 SNG 7 2 ah1p 0 a mound of wheat This is a pile of the grains of wheat after people remove the parts of it that they do not use.
414 SNG 7 2 cz8d 0 encircled with lilies Alternate translation: “with lilies all around it”
415 SNG 7 2 ue5r 0 lilies sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
416 SNG 7 3 jw6n 0 two breasts If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
417 SNG 7 3 ugf3 figs-simile 0 like two fawns, twins of a gazelle The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
418 SNG 7 3 jh3u 0 twins the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
419 SNG 7 3 wr8t 0 gazelle an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
420 SNG 7 4 uv17 figs-simile 0 Your neck is like a tower of ivory A tower is long and straight. Ivory is white. The woman’s neck is long and straight, and her skin is light in color. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
421 SNG 7 4 b1sy 0 a tower of ivory Alternate translation: “a tower that people have decorated with ivory”
422 SNG 7 4 xgt7 0 ivory the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make art and to make things look beautiful.
423 SNG 7 4 h4ih figs-metaphor 0 your eyes are the pools in Heshbon The woman’s eyes are spoken of as if they are clear pools of water. Pools of water are clear and sparkle in the sunlight and so are pleasant to look at. The woman’s eyes are clear and sparkle and so are pleasant to look at. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “your eyes are as clear as the pools in Heshbon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
424 SNG 7 4 md6s translate-names 0 Heshbon This is the name of a city east of the Jordan River (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
425 SNG 7 4 r1vf translate-names 0 Bath Rabbim This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
426 SNG 7 4 a4vg figs-simile 0 nose is like the tower in Lebanon A tower is tall and straight, and her nose is tall and straight. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
427 SNG 7 4 s23k figs-metonymy 0 that looks toward Damascus The tower looking is a metonym for people on the tower looking. Alternate translation: “that allows people to look toward Damascus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
428 SNG 7 5 jn22 figs-simile 0 Your head is on you like Carmel Mount Carmel is higher than everything else around it. The man wants to look at the woman’s head more than at anything else. Alternate translation: “Your head is on you like a crown, higher than anything else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
429 SNG 7 5 sr83 0 dark purple Other possible translations are: (1) “dark black” or (2) “dark red.”
430 SNG 7 5 hkk7 figs-metaphor 0 The king is held captive by its tresses This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Your hair that hangs down is so beautiful that the king is not able to stop admiring it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
431 SNG 7 5 l5e5 0 tresses the clusters of hair that hang down from a woman’s head
432 SNG 7 6 hqx3 0 my love, with delights Alternate translation: “my love. You delight me”
433 SNG 7 7 j31f 0 General Information: The man describes what he would like to do with the woman .
434 SNG 7 7 jy1s figs-simile 0 Your height is like that of a date palm tree “You stand up like a date palm tree.” Date palm trees are tall and straight, and their branches are only at the top, with the fruit under the branches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
435 SNG 7 7 f6me 0 date palm tree a tall, straight tree that produces a sweet, brown, and sticky fruit that grows in groups
436 SNG 7 7 jr1v figs-simile 0 your breasts like clusters of fruit The dates on a palm tree grow soft and round in large bunches that hang from the tree just below the branches, which are all at the top. The woman’s breasts are soft and round and are just lower than her arms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
437 SNG 7 8 p7ge 0 I said “I thought” or “I said to myself.” The man said this silently.
438 SNG 7 8 r1b3 figs-metaphor 0 I want to climb … its branches The man wants to embrace the woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
439 SNG 7 8 w5g3 figs-simile 0 May your breasts be like clusters of grapes The man wants to touch her breasts. Clusters of grapes are round and soft. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
440 SNG 7 8 zfb8 figs-simile 0 may the fragrance of your nose be like apricots The word “nose” is a metonym for the breath coming out of the nose. Alternate translation: “may the breath coming from your nose smell sweet like apricots” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
441 SNG 7 8 f9is 0 apricots sweet yellow fruit
442 SNG 7 9 yrg1 figs-metonymy 0 May your palate be like the best wine The palate is a metonym for the lips. Wine tastes good. The man wants to kiss the woman’s lips. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
443 SNG 7 9 rq12 0 flowing smoothly for my beloved “that flows smoothly for the one I love.” The man enjoys the smooth kisses of the woman.
444 SNG 7 9 ed64 0 gliding over the lips of those who sleep Alternate translation: “that flows over our lips as we sleep”
445 SNG 7 10 k7zq 0 I am my beloved’s See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 6:3](../06/01.md).
446 SNG 7 10 j44v 0 my beloved’s This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one’s” or “my lover’s”
447 SNG 7 10 a143 0 he desires me Alternate translation: “he wants to make love to me” or “he wants me”
448 SNG 7 11 bhr6 0 spend the night in the villages Though the words here translated “spends the night” and “villages” appear together in [Song of Songs 1:13-14](../01/12.md) as “spends the night” and “henna flowers,” and the context both here and there is lovemaking, the ULT chooses this reading because the immediate metaphor is of the man and woman sleeping in the village, rising in the morning, and going out into the vineyards. The word for “henna plants” and the word for “villages” sound exactly the same.
449 SNG 7 12 iii6 0 rise early Alternate translation: “get up early” or “wake up early”
450 SNG 7 12 cs6n 0 have budded Alternate translation: “have begun to bloom”
451 SNG 7 12 r952 0 blossoms flowers when they are open
452 SNG 7 12 ukd9 0 are in flower Alternate translation: “have flowers open on the plant”
453 SNG 7 12 q3a4 0 I will give you my love Alternate translation: “I will make love with you”
454 SNG 7 13 v61b translate-unknown 0 mandrakes This is the name of plants that give off a strong but pleasant scent. The scent is slightly intoxicating and stimulating, which increases the desire to make love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
455 SNG 7 13 alp4 0 give off their fragrance Alternate translation: “produce their scent” or “smell very nice”
456 SNG 7 13 xbk7 figs-explicit 0 at the door The doors belong to their house. Alternate translation: “above the entrances of our house” or “by the doors of our house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
457 SNG 7 13 c2ah 0 are all sorts of choice fruits, new and old Alternate translation: “is every kind of the best fruit, both old fruit and new fruit”
458 SNG 7 13 jsb8 0 stored up for you Alternate translation: “saved so I can give to you”
459 SNG 7 13 h8r2 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
460 SNG 8 intro d35n 0 # Song of Songs 8 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Kisses<br>The kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### Passion<br>The chapter describes the passion that can exist between a husband a wife. This is the feeling of strong or uncontrollable desire for another person.
461 SNG 8 1 me7m writing-poetry 0 General Information: See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
462 SNG 8 1 dp21 figs-simile 0 you were like my brother A woman could show affection for her brother in public. This woman wanted to be able to show affection for the man in public. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
463 SNG 8 1 v5fh 0 you outside Alternate translation: “you in public”
464 SNG 8 1 zyd6 0 I could kiss you A woman would probably kiss her brother on his cheek order to greet him.
465 SNG 8 1 ec82 0 would despise me Alternate translation: “would think that I am a bad person”
466 SNG 8 2 i6ch figs-explicit 0 she who taught me taught her how to make love (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
467 SNG 8 2 s68s figs-metaphor 0 I would give you spiced wine to drink and some of the juice of my pomegranates The woman uses these images to say that she will give herself to the man and make love with him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
468 SNG 8 2 au41 figs-metaphor 0 spiced wine “wine with spices” or “wine that has spices in it.” This represents the intoxicating power of lovemaking. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
469 SNG 8 3 s92v 0 His left hand … embraces me See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:6](../02/05.md).
470 SNG 8 3 e5cp 0 left hand … right hand Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
471 SNG 8 3 v65k 0 embraces me Alternate translation: “holds me”
472 SNG 8 4 z8a4 0 I want you to swear See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md)
473 SNG 8 4 rk33 figs-apostrophe 0 daughters of Jerusalem “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
474 SNG 8 4 qg8i 0 that you will … until it pleases See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
475 SNG 8 5 a5w5 0 General Information: The fifth part of the book begins here.
476 SNG 8 5 xxv3 figs-rquestion 0 Who is this who is coming up They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. A similar phrase was translated in [Song of Songs 6:10](../06/10.md). Alternate translation: “Look at this amazing woman as she comes up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
477 SNG 8 5 p4rr 0 I awakened you Alternate translation: “I woke you up” or “I aroused you”
478 SNG 8 5 zfa2 0 the apricot tree a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:3](../02/03.md).
479 SNG 8 5 g9tp 0 there under the apricot tree
480 SNG 8 5 d4ub 0 she delivered you Alternate translation: “she bore you”
481 SNG 8 6 jr5m figs-metaphor 0 Set me as a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm This could mean: (1) because seals were very important, people always kept them around their neck or on their hand. The woman wants to be with the man constantly like a seal, or (2) a seal shows who owns the thing that has the seal on it, and the woman wants herself as the seal on the man’s heart and arm to show that all of his thoughts, emotions, and actions belong to her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
482 SNG 8 6 yzj4 figs-simile 0 for love is as strong as death Death is very strong because it overcomes even the most powerful people of the world. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
483 SNG 8 6 tci8 figs-simile 0 as unrelenting as Sheol “as tough as Sheol.” Sheol never allows people to come back to life after they have already died. Love is as persistent as Sheol because it never changes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
484 SNG 8 6 fvz9 figs-metaphor 0 its flames burst out … any other fire Love is very powerful like fire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
485 SNG 8 6 tw71 0 burst out Alternate translation: “burn suddenly”
486 SNG 8 7 baf6 figs-metaphor 0 Surging waters cannot quench love Love is so strong that it is like a fire that is so hot that it cannot be put out even with an ocean full of water. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
487 SNG 8 7 j6mc 0 Surging waters Alternate translation: “Oceans of water” or “Huge amounts of water”
488 SNG 8 7 dd1i 0 cannot quench Alternate translation: “cannot extinguish” or “cannot put out”
489 SNG 8 7 e1ej figs-metaphor 0 nor can floods sweep it away Love never changes and always stays the same so it is like something that not even a powerful flood can move. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
490 SNG 8 7 dju9 0 floods In Israel, water from the rain flows into deep and narrow valleys. This creates a flood of water so powerful that it can move huge boulders and trees.
491 SNG 8 7 kqk9 0 sweep it away Alternate translation: “carry it away” or “wash it away”
492 SNG 8 7 jwh1 figs-hypo 0 If a man gave … the offer would utterly be despised This is something that could possibly happen. Alternate translation: “Even if a man … he would be utterly despised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
493 SNG 8 7 g5ja 0 gave offered to give
494 SNG 8 7 l4u3 0 all the possessions in his house Alternate translation: “everything he owns”
495 SNG 8 7 n3pn 0 for love Alternate translation: “in order to get love” or “in order to buy love”
496 SNG 8 7 nt2s figs-activepassive 0 the offer would utterly be despised This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people would completely despise him” or “people would harshly ridicule him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
497 SNG 8 8 au5a 0 little sister Alternate translation: “young sister”
498 SNG 8 8 t852 figs-rquestion 0 What can we do … in marriage? The speaker uses this question to introduce what he wants to say. Alternate translation: “This is what we will do … in marriage.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
499 SNG 8 8 g5fp figs-idiom 0 she will be promised in marriage This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a man comes and wants to marry her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
500 SNG 8 9 mpf5 0 General Information: The young woman’s brothers continue to speak among themselves.
501 SNG 8 9 x3j1 figs-metaphor 0 If she is a wall … If she is a door The little sister ([Song of Songs 8:8](./08.md)) has very small breasts that either have not grown or are very small. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
502 SNG 8 9 am5u figs-metaphor 0 we will build on her a tower of silver … we will adorn her with boards of cedar The brothers decide to decorate the little sister with silver and cedar, symbols of riches, so that she will be more likely to attract a good husband. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
503 SNG 8 9 cnw3 0 will adorn her Alternate translation: “will decorate her”
504 SNG 8 10 n2vy figs-metaphor 0 I was a wall The wall is a metaphor for a woman with small breasts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
505 SNG 8 10 mc78 figs-simile 0 my breasts are now like fortress towers Fortress towers are tall. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
506 SNG 8 10 rll2 figs-metonymy 0 I am in his eyes as one Here eyes are a metonym for judgment or value. Alternate translation: “I am in his judgment as one” or “he thinks of me as one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
507 SNG 8 10 b5uu figs-explicit 0 brings peace You may need to make explicit to whom the woman brings peace. Alternate translation: “brings him peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
508 SNG 8 10 hi47 0 peace Alternate translation: “well-being”
509 SNG 8 11 tt74 0 General Information: Possible interpretations: (1) The woman contrasts the way she wants to give herself to the man, who will give her his love, to the way Solomon leases out his vineyard to those who will give him money. (2) The man contrasts the woman, whom he will not give to another man, to Solomon’s vineyard, which he gave to other men.
510 SNG 8 11 x2c3 translate-names 0 Baal Hamon This is the name of a town in the northern part of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
511 SNG 8 11 mz3u 0 gave the vineyard leased, agreed to let other people pay him so they could grow grapes in the vineyard
512 SNG 8 11 b1b3 0 to those who would maintain it Alternate translation: “to people who would take care of it”
513 SNG 8 11 h77m figs-ellipsis 0 Each one was to bring a thousand shekels of silver for its fruit It may be helpful to state that this payment was for the fruit of the vineyard. Alternate translation: “Each man was supposed to give Solomon a thousand shekels as payment for the fruit of the vineyard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
514 SNG 8 11 t2dp translate-bmoney 0 to bring a thousand shekels of silver “to bring 1,000 shekels of silver.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
515 SNG 8 11 e3jp 0 shekels Alternate translation: “coins”
516 SNG 8 11 mm2j figs-apostrophe 0 Solomon Some versions understand the woman to be speaking directly to Solomon. Others understand her to be speaking in an apostrophe to her friends, to the man, or to herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
517 SNG 8 12 za66 figs-metaphor 0 My vineyard, my very own The woman refers to herself as a vineyard, as in [Song of Songs 1:6](../01/05.md). Here she emphasizes that she and no one else will decide what she dies with the “vineyard.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
518 SNG 8 12 gc75 figs-idiom 0 is before me This is an idiom that means the a person has the right to do what they want with something. Alternate translation: “is at my disposal” or “is mine to do with as I desire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
519 SNG 8 12 tl1c 0 the thousand shekels are for you, Solomon The woman knows that Solomon has leased out the vineyard so he can get money, but she does not want money.
520 SNG 8 12 t7u1 0 the two hundred shekels The speaker has not mentioned these before, but the hearer would understand that she is speaking of the money that those who worked the vineyard would have left for their own after they paid Solomon.
521 SNG 8 13 dp6s figs-you 0 You who live The man is speaking to the woman, so “you” and “live” are feminine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
522 SNG 8 13 zm5h figs-metonymy 0 listening for your voice The voice is a metonym for what the person says. If your language has a word for thinking only of what one is listening for, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “waiting to hear you start speaking” or “waiting to hear what you have to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
523 SNG 8 13 ew6z 0 let me hear it Alternate translation: “let me hear your voice.”
524 SNG 8 14 vrp7 0 my beloved This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
525 SNG 8 14 zh44 0 like a gazelle or a young stag See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](../02/08.md).
526 SNG 8 14 yhn7 0 gazelle a type of slender deer-like animal with long curved horns
527 SNG 8 14 gp9l 0 stag an adult male deer
528 SNG 8 14 mqx9 figs-metaphor 0 the mountains of spices “the mountains that have spices all over them.” The woman uses this metaphor to invite the man to make love to her. See how the man uses the metaphor of a mountain of myrrh and a hill of frankincense in [Song of Songs 4:6](../04/06.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

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front:intro an3g 0 # Introduction to the Song of Songs\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the Song of Songs\n\n1. The bride longs for the bridegroom to arrive (1:1–2:7)\n1. The bridegroom praises the woman he loves (2:8–3:5)\n1. The bridegroom arrives and praises the bride (3:6–5:1)\n1. The bride longs for the bridegroom (5:2–6:9)\n1. The bridegroom praises the beauty of his bride (6:1–8:4)\n1. Final thoughts about love between a man and a woman (8:5–14)\n\n### What is the Song of Songs about?\n\nThe Song of Songs is a poem or a series of poems that celebrate love and intimacy between a man and a woman. Jews traditionally have interpreted the book as a picture of God’s love for his people Israel. In the same way, many Christians interpret it as a picture of love between Christ and his bride, the church of all believers.\n\n### Who wrote the Song of Songs?\n\nThe first verse of the book (“The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s”) gives the idea that King Solomon of Israel wrote it. However, people have interpreted this verse in different ways, so not everyone is persuaded that Solomon wrote it.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nThis book is traditionally titled “Song of Songs,” which means the very best song, or “Song of Solomon.” It may also be called “Songs of Love,” “Great Poems of Love,” or “The Love Songs of Solomon.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### What place do the descriptions of sexual behavior have in the Song of Songs?\n\nThe Song of Songs approves of sexual behavior expressing love between a husband his wife.\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### How many characters are in the Song of Songs?\n\nThe two main characters in this book are the man and the woman, who love each other. The woman also speaks to a group of women called the “daughters of Jerusalem,” and these women make comments. However, it is possible that the group of women is not real and the woman is only imagining them.\n\nSome interpreters believe there may be more characters than these, but this is not certain. The ULT and UST versions recognize only the man, the woman, and the group of women.\n\n### What are the lines about people speaking?\n\nThe Song of Songs is a poem that shows the thoughts and words of a man, a woman, and the woman’s friends. Throughout the poem, the author does not identify the speakers and their audience. So to help readers understand the poem, some translations attempt to identify the speaker and the audience. It is not always certain who the speaker is, so sometimes translations disagree about who is speaking.\n\nBefore each speech, the ULT identifies the speaker and the audience like this: “The woman speaking to the other women,” “The woman speaking to the man,” “The man speaking to the woman,” or “The woman speaking to herself.” Translators are encouraged to include these ways of identifying the speaker and the audience, and to format them differently from the scripture text. The translators should also include a note explaining that these explanations are not actually part of the scripture.\n\n### How should one translate the Song of Songs if the readers will view certain terms as coarse, vulgar, or improper?\n\nReaders might consider many images or forms appearing in the Song of Songs as improper when translated. The translator should try to avoid offensive language if possible, by using expressions that will not cause offense. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])\n\n### How do I translate metaphors and similes in this book?\n\nThere are many metaphors and similes in this book. These figures of speech are often unclear. If they have sexual meanings, figures of speech describing feelings or emotions are often used to avoid offense by hiding their meaning. However, since their meanings are often unclear, ambiguity in translation is encouraged. You can translate the words as they are written in order to avoid committing to a specific meaning. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:intro xrm2 0 # Song of Songs 1 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Kisses\nThe kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n### Love and affection\nThis chapter is centered on the feelings of love, affection, and attraction. Different cultural standards may make translation difficult and the translator may use euphemisms to avoid offending people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “I am dark”\nIn the ancient Near East, rich people usually had lighter skin because they did not need to work outside in the sun. This young woman had to work out in the sun, and her skin became darker than it was when she was younger.
1:1 fna4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
1:1 qbe2 The Song of Songs 0 Alternate translation: “The Best Song” or “The Most Excellent Song”
1:1 r5ns which is Solomon’s 0 Possible meanings are “which is about Solomon” or “which Solomon composed.”
1:2 j5xq General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe first part of the book begins with this verse.
1:2 nze7 your love is better than wine 0 Alternate translation: “I enjoy having you near me more than I enjoy drinking wine”
1:3 si36 Your anointing oils 0 Alternate translation: “The oils that you put on your body”
1:3 d9r7 have a delightful fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “smell wonderful”
1:3 z9t3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile your name is like flowing perfume 0 Perfume has a good smell that spreads as the air moves. The name is either a metonym for: (1) the person’s reputation, what other people think of him. Here the speaker says that people always think that the hearer is a good person, or (2) the person himself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1:4 v83t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you with you 0 “The word “you” refers to the man and so is singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1:4 gec8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Take 0 “Pull” or “Drag.” Here the woman described as being like a captive who is willing to follow her captor. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:4 ty2p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive we will run 0 The word “we” refers to the young woman together with the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1:4 isr6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns We are glad & We rejoice & let us celebrate 0 The woman speaks of herself as if she were more than one person. Many versions change the pronoun to “I” as the UST does. Other versions present these as the words of the woman’s friends speaking about either the woman or the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1:4 at7l about you 0 Alternate translation: “because of you”
1:4 geq4 let us celebrate 0 Alternate translation: “let us praise”
1:4 ag8r It is natural for the other women to adore you 0 Alternate translation: “Women who adore you are doing as they should do”
1:5 ez2x I am dark but lovely 0 Alternate translation: “My skin is dark, but I am still beautiful” or “Even though my skin is dark, I am beautiful”
1:5 rbb3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile dark like the tents of Kedar 0 The nomadic tribes in Kedar used black goat skins to build their homes. The woman is comparing her skin to these tents. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:5 dc13 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile lovely like the curtains of Solomon 0 Solomon produced beautiful curtains either for his own palace or for the Temple. She says that her skin is beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:6 thz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole scorched 0 This exaggeration for “burned” or “made black” refers to the sun changing her skin from light to dark. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1:6 fz9h My mother’s sons 0 “My half-brothers.” These brothers probably had the same mother as the woman but not the same father.
1:6 v86f made me keeper of the vineyards 0 Alternate translation: “made me take care of the vineyards”
1:6 w18k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor but my own vineyard I have not kept 0 The woman compares herself to a vineyard. Alternate translation: “but I have not been able to take care of myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:7 f9hi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my soul loves 0 The soul is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “I love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1:7 v54w feed your flock 0 Alternate translation: “graze your flocks”
1:7 f5eb rest your flock 0 Alternate translation: “have your flock lie down”
1:7 v6rs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why should I be like someone who wanders beside the flocks of your companions? 0 The woman asks this question to emphasize that she has a closer relationship to the man than other women do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Tell me so that I will not need to wander around among the flocks of your companions when I am looking for you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1:7 bq95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who wanders 0 “who goes all around.” She does not want to have to look for the man. Perhaps she is afraid other men will think she is a prostitute looking for business. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:7 b552 your companions 0 Alternate translation: “your friends” or “your co-workers”
1:8 nky4 most beautiful among women 0 Alternate translation: “you who are the most beautiful of all women”
1:8 al9c follow the tracks of my flock 0 Alternate translation: “follow along behind the flock”
1:8 i8sl tracks 0 marks of the hooves of the flock on the ground
1:8 fis9 pasture your young goats 0 Alternate translation: “graze your young goats” or “let your young goats eat”
1:9 gw76 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile I compare you, my love, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariot horses 0 The Jews of those days considered horses beautiful, and the Pharaoh’s horses would have been the most beautiful he could find. The man considers the young woman beautiful. Alternate translation: “My love, you are as beautiful as any of Pharaoh’s chariot horses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:9 l3q7 my love 0 Alternate translation: “you whom I love”
1:9 zyj5 Pharaoh’s chariot horses 0 Alternate translation: “the horses that pull Pharaoh’s chariots”
1:10 u7h9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your cheeks are beautiful with ornaments 0 These ornaments could be: (1) jewels hanging from a band around the head or (2) earrings or (3) a metaphor for her long hair. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:11 dza7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns We will make 0 The man speaks as if he were many people. Some versions change this to singular “I.” Other versions take these to be the words of the woman’s friends. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1:11 bp6l with silver studs 0 Alternate translation: “with spots of silver”
1:12 zt7d lay on his couch 0 “sat eating his special meal.” This probably refers to one of the couches on which people would lie around a table at a banquet. You could translate using the common word for what people do with their bodies when they eat special meals.
1:12 ur66 nard 0 an oil that people got from the expensive nard or spikenard (valerian plant with small pink or white flowers) and used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor.
1:12 lp8f emitted its fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “gave off its good smell”
1:13 vc5v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile My beloved is to me like a bag of myrrh & breasts 0 Women would place a small bag or pouch of myrrh on a necklace so it would lie between their breasts and they could enjoy its pleasant fragrance. This woman enjoys having her beloved close to her. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy having a bag of myrrh … breasts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:13 bzs7 My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
1:13 f8y8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism lying between my breasts 0 If this phrase would offend your readers, you could use a euphemism. Alternate translation: “close to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1:14 zh75 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile My beloved is to me like a cluster of henna flowers 0 Henna flowers have a fragrance that people enjoy. The woman enjoys her beloved. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy the smell of clusters of henna flowers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1:14 a6jk henna flowers 0 flowers from a small desert tree that people used as a perfume
1:15 x2d5 Listen, you 0 Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
1:15 m114 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](./09.md)
1:15 fb4x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your eyes are doves 0 This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. Alternate translation: “you are very gentle” or (2) the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes as being like the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1:16 sbi4 Listen, you 0 Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
1:16 km29 handsome 0 Use the word in your language that describes a good-looking man.
1:16 x3pr my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
1:16 q43e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lush plants are our bed 0 This speaks of the lush plants as if they were a bed. Alternate translation: “lush plants are what we lie down on to sleep” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:16 xed8 The lush plants 0 plants that are green, moist, and grow abundantly
1:17 v14z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are firs 0 The woman describes the forest as though it were a house in which they were lying down. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:17 q6r8 beams & rafters 0 This could mean: (1) “beams” refers to large logs used to support everything above the walls and “rafters” refers to the large pieces of wood to which the roof is attached or (2) “beams” refers to the rafters and “rafters” refers to the strips attached to the beams, onto which the builders attached the roofing materials.
1:17 c3e5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown cedars & firs 0 Cedars were large and strong trees. The word translated “firs” is a general term for trees like cedars but smaller. If cedar and fir trees are unknown in your area, you could use general terms for the tallest and strongest trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2:intro u8uv 0 # Song of Songs 2 General Notes\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\nWomen are compared to flowers in this chapter. This metaphor may describe a woman’s beauty and delicacy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### Euphemisms\nIt is possible that some of the metaphors used in this chapter are actually euphemisms. These euphemisms would refer to sex or the physical love between a husband a wife. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2:1 bw25 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
2:1 cne2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I am a meadow flower of Sharon 0 The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:1 ni5p Sharon 0 the name of a land that is flat, has no trees, and grows many different kinds of grasses and flowers
2:1 vve6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lily of the valleys 0 The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:1 nt8f lily 0 a sweet smelling flower that grows in places where there is much water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md).
2:1 e9ke valleys 0 flat areas between mountains and near water
2:2 ibi6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As a lily among thorns & young women 0 A flower is much more beautiful than a thorn bush. The man thinks the woman is much more beautiful than the other women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2:2 bi45 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
2:2 y9bu the young women 0 Alternate translation: “the other young women”
2:3 xz7y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As an apricot tree & the young men 0 People enjoy the fruit of an apricot tree, but the trees of the forest do not bear fruit. The woman enjoys being with the man, but not with the other young men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2:3 yr6x apricot tree 0 a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.”
2:3 wf4u the forest 0 The Hebrew word here refers to land where trees grow for which people have no use.
2:3 q7kl my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
2:3 pii3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I sit down under his shadow with great delight 0 The woman finds great joy and comfort in being so near to the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:3 b5ai rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his fruit is sweet to my taste 0 The woman enjoys eating sweet fruit, and she enjoys being near to the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:4 ift6 the house of wine 0 This could mean: (1) the very large room where the king would serve many people large meals with wine or (2) a small booth in a vineyard where the man and woman could be alone together.
2:4 rp8q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his banner over me was love 0 This could mean: (1) the banner is a metonym for a military escort. And, the military escort is a metaphor that represents the man’s love which gives courage to the woman who was nervous to enter the large room where the king served many people. Alternate translation: “but his loving protection guided me and gave me courage” or (2) the woman knew that the man wanted to make love to her from the way he looked at her. Alternate translation: “he looked at me lovingly” or “when he looked at me, I knew he wanted to make love to me” or (3) they made love. Alternate translation: “he lovingly covered me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:5 uxb2 Revive me 0 Alternate translation: “Return my strength” or “Give me energy”
2:5 khc1 with raisin cakes 0 “by giving me raisin cakes to eat.” Raisin cakes were cakes made of dried grapes pressed together.
2:5 gs2a refresh me with apricots 0 Alternate translation: “support me by giving me apricots” or “help me by giving me apricots”
2:5 y4qy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for I am weak with love 0 The woman speaks of feeling weak because her love is so strong as if love were a kind of sickness. Alternate translation: “because my love is so strong that I feel feeble” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:6 m6ys left hand & right hand 0 Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
2:6 fq8w embraces me 0 Alternate translation: “holds me”
2:7 l67b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
2:7 n4wq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe by the gazelles and the does of the fields 0 Although the daughters of Jerusalem could not hear her, the woman speaks to them as if they could hear saying that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
2:7 sz5c the gazelles 0 These are animals that look like deer and move quickly.
2:7 nt79 does 0 female deer
2:7 w94r of the fields 0 “that live in the countryside.” This was land that has not been farmed.
2:7 ekc3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases 0 Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:7 fz3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet will not awaken or arouse 0 If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2:8 aay2 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe second part of the book begins here. It is not clear whether the woman is speaking to herself or to the daughters of Jerusalem.
2:8 j2nl Listen 0 This could mean: (1) “Listen carefully to what I am about to say.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully, or (2) “Listen so you can hear him coming.”
2:8 rn51 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
2:8 dm9e leaping & jumping 0 The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
2:8 fr67 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor leaping over the mountains, jumping over the hills 0 “leaping on the mountains, running quickly on the hills.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 9) coming quickly toward her over rough ground. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:9 l5ni gazing & peering 0 The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
2:9 f2lu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a gazelle or a young stag 0 Gazelles and young stags move quickly over rough ground. The woman imagines the man coming as fast as he can to be with her. You could translate using animals in your language that people think of as fast. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2:9 kq5f a gazelle 0 This is an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “the gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
2:9 qbs9 a young stag 0 Alternate translation: “a young male deer”
2:9 s6z4 look 0 “listen carefully” or “what I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
2:9 umf5 behind our wall 0 “on the other side of our wall.” The woman is in a house and the man is outside the house.
2:9 be2w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive our wall 0 The word “our” refers to the woman and the other people in the house with her. If she is speaking to herself, it is inclusive, but if she is speaking to the daughters of Jerusalem, whether she is referring to herself and her companions or to herself only in plural, as in “We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate” ([Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md)), it is exclusive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:9 kf9u gazing through the window 0 Alternate translation: “he stares in through the windows”
2:9 s9xt peering through the lattice 0 Alternate translation: “he peeks through the lattice”
2:9 z1bl lattice 0 a cover for a window or some other entrance that someone has made by weaving long strips of wood together. Lattices have holes that people can look through.
2:10 hl12 My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
2:10 pah1 Arise, my love 0 Alternate translation: “Get out of bed, my love”
2:10 fff7 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
2:11 yv91 Look 0 “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
2:11 eyh9 the winter is past; the rain is over and gone 0 In winter it is too cold and wet to make love outside, but the cold, wet time has passed.
2:11 e658 the winter is past 0 Winter is the cold time of year when plants do not grow and people prefer to stay inside their houses. You could use the term in your language for that time of year.
2:11 f4hz the rain is over and gone 0 In Israel it only rains during the winter. The rain here is cold and unpleasant, not the refreshing rain of the hot season.
2:12 wfw3 The flowers have appeared 0 Alternate translation: “People can see flowers”
2:12 j8f3 in the land 0 Alternate translation: “all over this land”
2:12 sv72 for pruning 0 for cutting off branches from a plant so that it will produce more fruit or look better
2:12 x3li the singing of birds 0 Alternate translation: “for birds to sing”
2:12 zmw4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the sound of the doves is heard 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people can hear the sound of doves” or “the doves are cooing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2:13 mk2y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The fig tree ripens her green figs 0 The tree is spoken of as if it were actively causing its fruit to ripen. This is a collective singular and can be translated as a plural. Alternate translation: “The figs on the trees are becoming ripe” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2:13 ef3j vines are in blossom 0 Alternate translation: “vines are flowering” or “vines have flowers”
2:13 xhn3 they give off 0 The word “they” refers to the blossoms on the vines.
2:13 wjr7 their fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “their sweet smell”
2:13 m4mt my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
2:14 a7lp General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe man is speaking.
2:14 wv7q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My dove 0 The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. Alternate translation: “My beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:14 eju1 the clefts 0 large cracks in the side of mountain rocks large enough for people to hide in
2:14 afg5 the mountain crags 0 Alternate translation: “the steep rocks on the sides of the mountains”
2:14 bhl6 your face 0 Some versions translate this as “your appearance” or “your form” or “what you look like.”
2:15 pu8l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you Catch 0 This is plural, as if the woman is speaking to more than one man, but most versions translate who she is speaking to as the man, so you could translate this as singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
2:15 xns5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the foxes 0 These animals look like small dogs and were often used in love poetry to represent eager young men who would spoil a young woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:15 v31m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive for us & our vineyard 0 The words **us** and **our** could possibly be: (1) exclusive, referring to the woman herself, as in [Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md), or (2) inclusive, referring to the woman and the man, or (3) exclusive, referring to the woman and the rest of her family. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:15 dac9 foxes 0 Another possible meaning is “jackals.” A jackal is a type of thin wild dog with long legs.
2:15 wl95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the little foxes that spoil 0 Foxes spoil or destroy vineyards by digging holes and eating vines and grapes. This could be a metaphor for young men who spoil young women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:15 r16k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor in blossom 0 This implies that the vineyard is healthy and the grapes have appeared, but they are not ready for harvest. This could be a metaphor for a young lady ready for marriage and bearing children. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:13](./12.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:16 zb2r My beloved is mine 0 Alternate translation: “My beloved belongs to me”
2:16 lxy4 I am his 0 Alternate translation: “I belong to him”
2:16 n6c3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he grazes 0 “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 17) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:16 x5db lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](./01.md).
2:17 b3kg my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
2:17 p2uq dawn 0 the part of the day when the sun is rising
2:17 lz3y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the shadows flee away 0 The woman describes the shadows as though they were running away from the light of the sun. Alternate translation: “the shadows disappear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:17 d8mw like a gazelle or a young stag 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](./08.md).
2:17 vlw3 gazelle 0 an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
2:17 l8dz stag 0 an adult male deer
2:17 ia1r rugged mountains 0 Alternate translation: “rocky mountains” or “rough mountains”
3:intro t72h 0 # Song of Songs 3 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Longing\nThis chapter describes a feeling of longing, or the waiting in anticipation of the one you love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:1 l1kv I was longing for him & could not find him 0 Alternate translation: “I had a strong desire to be with him … loves, but he was not there”
3:1 hu3u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy him whom my soul loves 0 The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3:2 uyu7 go through the city 0 Alternate translation: “walk through the city”
3:2 x9ki through the streets and squares 0 The word “squares” indicates the center area of a town where streets or roads come together. It is often an area where people sell items, a market, and a place where people come together to talk.
3:2 afu9 will search 0 Alternate translation: “will to look for”
3:3 rdd5 watchmen 0 men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe
3:3 b9j2 as they were making their rounds in the city 0 Alternate translation: “who were walking around the city on the walls”
3:3 pab8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy him whom my soul loves 0 The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:1](./01.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3:4 p5k2 the bedroom 0 Alternate translation: “the room for sleeping”
3:4 ri8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the one who had conceived me 0 This is a metonym for her mother. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3:5 a3y1 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nTranslate this verse as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
3:5 t61g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
3:5 qw1m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe by the gazelles and the does of the fields 0 Although the daughters of Jerusalem are not there to hear her, the woman is telling them that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
3:5 b4r5 the gazelles 0 animals that look like deer and move quickly.
3:5 ruq7 does 0 female deer
3:5 n2aq of the fields 0 “that live in the countryside.” This refers to land that has not been farmed.
3:5 cm9r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases 0 Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:5 dbf9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet will not awaken or arouse 0 If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
3:6 e1ly General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe third part of the book begins here. It begins with a description of sixty men carrying Solomon’s bed up from the wilderness to Jerusalem.
3:6 y8wr What is that coming up from the wilderness 0 The group of people is traveling from the wilderness to Jerusalem. They must go up in order to reach Jerusalem because the wilderness is low in the Jordan valley and Jerusalem is high in the mountains.
3:6 z3w1 What is that 0 Many versions translate this “Who is that.”
3:6 tjf4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a column of smoke 0 The dust looked like smoke from far away because the people raised much dust in the air as they traveled. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3:6 w7kr perfumed with myrrh and frankincense 0 Alternate translation: “with the sweet smell of myrrh and frankincense”
3:6 bf7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis with all the powders sold by merchants 0 The words “perfumed with” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “perfumed with all the powders sold by merchants” or “and with the sweet smell of all the powders that merchants sell” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
3:6 sy9j powders 0 a fine dust made by crushing something solid
3:7 ldh8 Look 0 “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully. The speaker now discovers the answer to the question in verse 6.
3:7 e4uw it is the bed 0 This refers to a bed with a cover that can be carried from one place to another.
3:7 rd7d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet sixty warriors surround it, sixty soldiers of Israel 0 These two phrases refer to the same sixty people. The second phrase clarifies that the “warriors” are “soldiers of Israel.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
3:7 u16s warriors 0 men who fight
3:8 mm7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background 0 A description of the bed itself begins in verse 9. You could use words in your language that show that this is background information. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
3:8 v2yx are experienced in warfare 0 Alternate translation: “can fight battles well”
3:8 z9n4 armed against 0 Alternate translation: “so that he can fight against”
3:8 jqy9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns terrors of the night 0 Here, “terrors” is a metonym for evil people who frighten others by attacking them. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **terrors**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “evil people who attack others at night” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3:9 nnm6 sedan chair 0 This is a chair or couch for important people to sit or lie on. It rests on long poles that people can use to carry it
3:10 f5mj rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background 0 The description of the bed itself that began in [Song of Songs 3:9](./08.md) continues. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
3:10 w2at Its posts 0 The word “its” refers to King Solomon’s sedan chair.
3:10 xnj4 posts 0 The word “posts” here refers to pieces either made of silver or made of wood covered with silver that hold up the tent of cloth around his chair.
3:10 rr69 Its interior was 0 Alternate translation: “The inside of it was”
3:10 apj8 with love 0 This could mean: (1) “with love,” indicating that the women made the sedan beautiful in a special way to show their love for Solomon, or (2) “with leather.”
3:11 i961 daughters of Zion 0 Alternate translation: “you young women who live in Zion”
3:11 sj76 gaze on King Solomon 0 “look at King Solomon.” The word “gaze” refers to look at someone or something for a long time, usually with strong emotional feeling.
3:11 tf1d bearing the crown 0 Alternate translation: “wearing the crown”
3:11 ei7z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the day of the joy of his heart 0 The word “heart” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “the day on which he truly rejoiced” or “the happiest day of his life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4:intro r3aw 0 # Song of Songs 4 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### “My sister, my bride”\nThe woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
4:1 rg3f rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
4:1 m3g6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your eyes are doves 0 One possibility is that the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes, the shape of a dove. Another possibility is that the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). Alternate translation: “You are very gentle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:1 z6f7 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
4:1 pnn4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your hair is like a flock of goats going down from Mount Gilead 0 Goats in Israel were usually dark in color. The woman’s hair was probably dark. You may need to specify that the goats were dark or even use another simile that the reader will understand that refers to something dark and beautiful. People thought of Mount Gilead as beautiful and fertile. The speaker considered the woman beautiful and ready to become the mother of his children. If you remove the simile of the goats, you may have to remove the simile of the mountain as well. Alternate translation: “Your hair is as dark as storm clouds above a fertile land” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4:2 bdg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes 0 After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4:2 cj59 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive a flock of newly shorn ewes 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a flock of ewes whose wool people have cut off” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4:2 wc12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit coming up from the washing place 0 The ewes are coming up out of the water. Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
4:2 jw1w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Each one has a twin 0 Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lambs usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:2 vl9d none among them is bereaved 0 Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth.
4:2 sb14 bereaved 0 lost a loved one who has died
4:3 t9kf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like a thread of scarlet 0 Scarlet is a beautiful red color, and scarlet thread was very expensive. The woman’s lips were red. Alternate translation: “are a deep red like scarlet thread” or “are red and very beautiful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4:3 v1ae scarlet 0 a dark red color that is very similar to the color of blood
4:3 q1mk is lovely 0 Alternate translation: “is beautiful”
4:3 j2a3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like pomegranate halves 0 Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4:3 y47i behind your veil 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](./01.md).
4:4 i3qt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your neck is like the tower of David 0 No one knows if this was a real tower. A tower is a tall, slender building, and saying that David built it implies that it was beautiful. The man considered the woman’s neck long and slender and so beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your neck is long and beautiful like the tower of David” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4:4 v4ae of David 0 Alternate translation: “that David built”
4:4 cq2q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor built in rows of stone 0 Women had necklaces that covered their entire necks with rows of decorations. The man compares these rows of decorations with the rows of stone on the tower. Alternate translation: “that has many rows of stone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4:4 c4nk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor with a thousand shields 0 The man compares the decorations of the woman’s necklace with shields hanging on the tower. The necklace probably went around her neck many times. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:4 wgq3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers a thousand shields 0 “1,000 shields.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
4:4 swd3 all the shields of soldiers 0 Alternate translation: “all of the shields belong to mighty warriors”
4:5 f8qi two breasts 0 If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it.
4:5 ea9j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like two fawns, twins of a gazelle 0 The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4:5 wd7y twins 0 the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time
4:5 gu86 gazelle 0 an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
4:5 p33d grazing among the lilies 0 “eating plants among the lilies.” While it is clear that the man “grazing among the lilies” is a metaphor for making love ([Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md)), it is not clear what these words refer to. It is best to translate them literally.
4:5 bb93 lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
4:6 y1xu Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee away 0 Translate similar wording in this line as you did the line in [Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md).
4:6 re83 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will go to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense 0 The “mountain of myrrh” and “hill of frankincense” are metaphors for the woman’s breasts ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md)). Alternate translation: “I will lie close to your breasts, which are like mountains that smell like myrrh and frankincense” or “I will lie close to your breasts, which smell very sweet” or “I will go to the sweet-smelling mountains” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:6 bm4n the mountain of myrrh 0 Alternate translation: “the mountain made of myrrh” or “the mountain that has myrrh growing on it”
4:6 ekc1 the hill of frankincense 0 Alternate translation: “the hill where there are clouds of smoke from burning frankincense in the air”
4:7 wt7k You are beautiful in every way 0 Alternate translation: “Every part of you is beautiful” or “All of you is beautiful”
4:7 l1xq my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
4:7 ci96 there is no blemish in you 0 Alternate translation: “you have no blemish”
4:8 h4yw from Lebanon 0 Alternate translation: “away from Lebanon”
4:8 j8s2 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife.
4:8 m2km rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Amana 0 the name of a mountain north of Israel (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
4:8 ir9l rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Senir 0 the name of a mountain near Amana and Hermon. Some people think that this refers to the same mountain as Hermon. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
4:8 ybd2 dens 0 places where lions and leopards live, like caves or holes in the ground
4:9 d7n7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom You have stolen my heart 0 This idiom could mean: (1) “My heart now belongs completely to you” or (2) “I strongly desire to make love to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4:9 vdf7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4:9 k4ah my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:8](./08.md).
4:9 d83s heart, with just one look at me, with just one jewel 0 “heart. All you have to do is look at me once or show me just one jewel.” Both the woman’s eyes and her jewelry attract the man to her.
4:9 laj2 necklace 0 This necklace probably went around her neck many times ([Song of Songs 4:4](./04.md)).
4:10 g6qt How beautiful is your love 0 Alternate translation: “Your love is wonderful”
4:10 v1gy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4:10 ibb8 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md).
4:10 td9x How much better is your love than wine 0 “Your love is much better than wine.” See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 1:2](../01/01.md).
4:10 ts8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the fragrance of your perfume than any spice 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “how much better is the fragrance of your perfume than the fragrance of any spice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
4:10 wzb4 fragrance & perfume 0 See how you translated these words in [Song of Songs 1:3](../01/01.md).
4:10 r5ni spice 0 dried plants or seeds that have a good smell or taste
4:11 fw88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your lips & drip honey 0 Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:11 vc6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor honey and milk are under your tongue 0 Because “milk and honey” is a common phrase in the Bible, you should translate literally. Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for: (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. Milk is a metaphor for luxury, owning many things that help people enjoy life. When the woman kisses the man, he enjoys life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:11 nyc9 the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon 0 “the smell of your clothes is like the smell of Lebanon.” Many cedar trees grew in Lebanon. Cedar trees smell very good, so Lebanon would have smelled sweet and fresh.
4:12 whp4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom My sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md). Alternate translation: “My dear” or “My darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4:12 nrw6 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md).
4:12 j45u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor is a garden locked up 0 “is a garden that no one can enter.” The garden is a metaphor for the woman, and the lock is a metaphor for her still being a virgin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:12 i5nb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a spring that is sealed 0 “a spring with a cover on it.” The spring or well is a metaphor for the woman, and the cover is a metaphor for her being a virgin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:13 uvg6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism Your branches 0 branches or channels of rivers, a clear euphemism for the female body part. If any reference to this would be offensive, translate it as a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “You” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
4:13 i3mi a grove 0 a place where many trees grow together
4:13 eji6 with choice fruits 0 Alternate translation: “with the best kinds of fruits”
4:13 q938 nard plants 0 plants that give oil that people used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
4:13 dju5 henna 0 small desert trees that people used as a perfume. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
4:14 dxj9 saffron 0 a spice that comes from the dried parts from the yellow thread in the center of a certain flower
4:14 ujr7 calamus 0 a reed with a pleasant smell that people used to make anointing oil.
4:14 w1cm cinnamon 0 a spice made from the bark of a tree that people used for cooking
4:14 kx8c myrrh 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
4:14 bm3m aloes 0 a type of large plant that had a very sweet smell
4:14 p646 all the finest spices 0 Alternate translation: “all the best spices”
4:15 z2an rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You are a garden spring 0 “You are a spring in a garden.” A garden spring gives sweet, clean water that people enjoy drinking. The man enjoys being close to the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:15 t9ch fresh water 0 water that is good to drink
4:15 zl7c streams flowing down from Lebanon 0 Because Lebanon had mountains covered with trees, the streams from Lebanon were clean and cool.
4:16 jv5g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Awake, north wind; come, south wind; blow 0 The woman speaks to the north wind and the south wind as though they were people. Alternate translation: “I wish the north wind and south wind would come and blow” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
4:16 x71g Awake, north wind 0 Alternate translation: “North wind, start blowing”
4:16 l273 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor blow on my garden 0 The garden is a metaphor for her body, which she has covered with sweet-smelling oils ([Song of Songs 4:14](./12.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:16 kdi9 may give off their fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “may send out their good smells”
4:16 lqh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor May my beloved & choice fruit 0 The woman is inviting the man to make love to her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:16 dp46 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
4:16 mbn7 choice fruit 0 Alternate translation: “wonderful fruit”
5:intro kdw4 0 # Song of Songs 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nVerses 2-7 describe a dream the woman had.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “My sister, my bride”\nThe woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
5:1 zka3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
5:1 m575 I have come 0 It is clearly the woman’s lover who is speaking.
5:1 f2qr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor have come into my garden 0 The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
5:1 tgd7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
5:1 psq4 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md).
5:1 lgr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor myrrh & spice & honeycomb & honey & wine & milk 0 These are all metaphors for the man enjoying the woman’s body ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md), [Song of Songs 2:4](../02/03.md), [Song of Songs 4:11](../04/10.md), and [Song of Songs 4:14](../04/12.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:1 sq9d spice 0 plants that have a strong smell or taste
5:1 i16q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Eat & drink & be drunk with love 0 Eating and drinking are metaphors for making love. Alternate translation: “Make love … make love … make love until you are fully satisfied” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:2 a7v6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe fourth part of the book begins here. The young woman uses euphemisms to describe her dream so that it can be interpreted in two different ways: (1) the woman describes a dream about a night when the man came to visit her at her house; and (2) the woman describes a dream about starting to sleep with the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
5:2 biy3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom but my heart was awake 0 The heart is the center of thought and feeling. Alternate translation: “but I could think clearly” or “but I knew what I was feeling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
5:2 tk43 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
5:2 qjv8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Open to me 0 This could mean: (1) literal, “Open the door for me,” or (2) metaphorical, “Let me make love to you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:2 rx38 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/09.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
5:2 d52k my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
5:2 c27j my dove 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md).
5:2 gaj1 undefiled one 0 Alternate translation: “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one”
5:2 yh2r dew 0 drops of water or mist that form as the night becomes cool
5:2 d3gt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis my hair with the night’s dampness 0 The words “is wet” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “my hair is wet with the night’s dampness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
5:3 tr8w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations “I have taken off my robe & dirty?” 0 This is what the woman thought to herself when she heard the man speak. ([Song of Songs 5:2](./02.md)). This could be translated with the woman saying that this is what she was thinking, or the woman could just explain the situation and her thoughts as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I thought to myself, ‘I have taken off my robe … dirty?’” or “I had taken off my robe and I did not want to put it on again. I had washed my feet and I did not want to get them dirty.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
5:3 am4r robe 0 thin linen clothing that people wore on their skin
5:3 g6z2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion must I put it on again? 0 If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to put it on again.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
5:3 r5cm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism I have washed my feet 0 While the word “feet” can be a euphemism for private parts, this probably refers to literal feet. The woman seems more likely to want to make love than to want to refrain from lovemaking because she has just bathed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
5:3 h4w3 must I get them dirty? 0 If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to get them dirty.”
5:4 w3ff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism My beloved put in his hand through the opening of the door latch 0 Possible interpretations are: (1) literal, the lover reaches into the house through a hole in the door in order to open the door or (2) euphemisic, they have begun to make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
5:4 hqn5 My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
5:4 nns1 door latch 0 Alternate translation: “door lock”
5:5 w3k2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I got up to open the door for my beloved 0 This could mean: (1) literal, the young woman got out of bed in order to let the man into the house, or (2) metaphorical. Alternate translation: “I prepared myself to make love with my beloved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:5 q3qx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism my hands & my fingers & door handle 0 While these may be euphemisms for the woman’s and man’s bodies, it is best to translate literally. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
5:5 ycr1 with moist myrrh 0 Alternate translation: “with liquid myrrh”
5:6 b7qk my beloved 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
5:6 z8na rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My heart sank 0 The heart is a metaphor for the person, and sinking, going down, is a metaphor for becoming weak or sad. Alternate translation: “I was very sad” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:7 a9yk The watchmen 0 men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
5:7 rqq4 as they were making their rounds in the city 0 “who were walking around the city on the walls.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
5:7 v79f found me 0 found the woman
5:7 zhf3 struck me 0 Alternate translation: “beat me” or “hit me”
5:7 q2vt wounded me 0 Alternate translation: “injured me”
5:7 euu8 the guards on the walls 0 Alternate translation: “the men who guard the walls”
5:7 h38e cloak 0 a garment that people wore over the other clothing on their upper body when they went outdoors in public
5:8 czu7 I want you to swear 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
5:8 j8ub rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
5:8 w1ul rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion my beloved—What will you make known to him?—that I am 0 The woman uses a question to introduce what she wants the daughters of Jerusalem to tell her beloved. Alternate translation: “my beloved, this is what I want you to say to him: tell him that” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
5:8 v5m3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor sick from love 0 She loves the man so strongly that she feels sick. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:9 kr5i your beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover”
5:9 eap5 most beautiful among women 0 “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
5:9 vbc6 Why is your beloved better 0 Alternate translation: “What makes your beloved better”
5:9 rfp3 that you ask us to take an oath like this 0 Alternate translation: “and causes you to have us take this oath”
5:9 zp43 an oath like this 0 the oath in [Song of Songs 5:8](./08.md)
5:10 qb4q My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
5:10 xuy2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit is radiant and ruddy 0 This phrase refers to his complexion. Alternate translation: “has radiant and ruddy skin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
5:10 za1u radiant 0 “is completely healthy” or “is pure.” The man has skin that does not have any problems.
5:10 rgj8 ruddy 0 a healthy color of the skin that is brownish red
5:10 hms2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor outstanding among ten thousand 0 “the best of 10,000.” Alternate translation: “better than anyone else” or “no one else is like him.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
5:11 s23z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His head is the purest gold 0 The man’s head is as precious to the woman as the purest gold. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:11 m1w4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile a raven 0 a bird with very black feathers (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5:12 m6e7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy His eyes are like doves 0 Translate “eyes are like doves” as in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the woman considers the man’s eyes beautiful because the way the man looks at her makes her think he is gentle. Alternate translation: “His eyes are gentle like doves” or (2) the woman is speaking of the man’s white eyeballs or the shape of his eyes, the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
5:12 knr8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor doves beside streams of water 0 Birds that the Israelites considered gentle sitting beside a gently flowing stream are a metaphor for a gentle person. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:12 xp2d streams of water 0 Alternate translation: “gently flowing water”
5:12 tr46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor bathed in milk 0 Milk is a metaphor for the whiteness of the doves. Alternate translation: (1) “doves that are white like milk” or (2) milk is a metaphor for the white part of the man’s eyes. Alternate translation: “his pupils are like doves bathing in white milk” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:12 qe85 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile mounted like jewels 0 His eyes are beautiful. Jewels that a craftsman has carefully put in place are beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5:13 ip4j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile His cheeks & aromatic scents 0 This explains that his cheeks are like beds of spices because they both give off wonderful smells. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5:13 mtt8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor beds of spices 0 gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. Spices give people pleasure. The man’s body gives the woman pleasure. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:13 mem2 yielding aromatic scents 0 Alternate translation: “that give off wonderful smells.”
5:13 a4hu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His lips are lilies 0 The woman probably compares his lips with lilies because they are beautiful and smell wonderful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:13 t4f1 lilies 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
5:13 x8c2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor dripping liquid myrrh 0 “that drip with the best myrrh.” His lips are moist and have a wonderful smell like myrrh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:14 nl6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His arms are rounded gold set with jewels 0 “His arms are cylinders of gold that have jewels all over them.” The woman uses this image to say that his arms are beautiful and precious. The first readers would have understood this as a metaphor for the male body part ([Song of Songs 5:3](./03.md)), but this would be difficult to bring out in translation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:14 bg51 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his abdomen is ivory covered with sapphires 0 “his belly is smooth ivory that has sapphires all over it.” The woman uses this image to say that his belly is beautiful and precious. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:14 k5ga ivory 0 the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make smooth and shiny pieces of art.
5:14 ws92 sapphires 0 valuable stones that are either: (1) blue or (2) clear and either blue or golden
5:15 i1xz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His legs are pillars of marble, set on bases of pure gold 0 Marble and gold are strong and beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5:15 juu1 marble 0 a very strong stone that has many different colors and that people polish to make very smooth
5:15 z75c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile his appearance is like Lebanon 0 “he looks like Lebanon.” Lebanon was a very beautiful area with many mountains and cedar trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5:16 sc8p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy His mouth is most sweet 0 The mouth is a metonym for either: (1) the man’s sweet kisses or (2) the sweet words that he says. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
5:16 w3vr he is completely lovely 0 Alternate translation: “every part of him is lovely” or “all of him is lovely”
5:16 pi1a This is my beloved, and this is my friend 0 The word “This” refers to the man that the woman has just finished describing. Alternate translation: “That is what the one I love is like, and that is what my friend is like”
5:16 zd7b my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
5:16 r6zc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
6:intro fa9a 0 # Song of Songs 6 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:1 z4sf rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]. The fifth part of the book begins here.
6:1 xnv3 In what direction has your beloved gone 0 Alternate translation: “Which way did your beloved go”
6:1 wr5y your beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover” or “the man you love”
6:1 emy4 most beautiful among women 0 “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
6:1 ise2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit gone, so that we may seek him with you? 0 The words “tell us” are understood from the context. They can be stated clearly Alternate translation: “gone? Tell us, so that we can look for him with you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
6:2 vrq9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My beloved has gone down to his garden 0 The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. See the explanation of this metaphor in [Song of Songs 5:1](../05/01.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
6:2 v5x3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor beds of spices 0 gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:13](../05/13.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:2 w7gn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to graze in the garden and to gather lilies 0 These words are metaphors for the man enjoying her body. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:2 st2n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor graze 0 “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” ([Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md)) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](../02/01.md)). See how you translated “he grazes” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:2 e94c to gather lilies 0 Alternate translation: “to pick lilies”
6:2 gp6q lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
6:3 z5rf my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
6:3 lr7w I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine 0 See how you translated the similar phrase “My beloved is mine, and I am his” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
6:3 p4l4 he grazes among the lilies with pleasure 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
6:4 q66q General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nHere begins Part Five of the book
6:4 xk88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as beautiful as Tirzah, my love, as lovely as Jerusalem 0 These cities were famous for being beautiful and pleasant to be in. The man thinks the woman is beautiful, and he takes pleasure in being with her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
6:4 nj8w my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
6:4 rjr5 lovely 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:5](../01/05.md).
6:4 uwd8 as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners 0 The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the man feel helpless, as if an army were approaching him.
6:5 e85g overwhelm me 0 “terrify me.” The eyes of the woman are so beautiful that it makes the man feel weak and afraid because he cannot resist their power.
6:5 lbz1 Your hair & from the slopes of Gilead 0 Translate “Your hair … from Mount Gilead” as in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
6:6 lxi1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your teeth are like a flock of ewes 0 After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. See how “Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes” is translated in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
6:6 j7se rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit coming up from the washing place 0 The ewes are coming up out of the water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
6:6 x7hr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Each one has a twin 0 Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lamb usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:6 s4qj none among them is bereaved 0 Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
6:6 j4u3 bereaved 0 lost a loved one who has died. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
6:7 zid1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like pomegranate halves 0 Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:3](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
6:7 z88b behind your veil 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
6:8 g963 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers There are sixty queens, eighty concubines & young women without number 0 These numbers are to be large, then larger, and then beyond counting. Alternate translation: “There are 60 queens, 80 concubines … more young women than anyone could count” or “There are many queens, even more concubines, and more young women than anyone could count” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
6:9 a2hh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My dove 0 The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md). Alternate translation: “You beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:9 dk9e my undefiled 0 “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:2](../05/02.md).
6:9 m138 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole the only daughter of her mother 0 This is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “her mother’s special daughter” or “completely different from her mother’s other daughters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
6:9 tej6 the woman who bore her 0 “the woman who gave birth to her.” This phrase refers to her mother.
6:9 wmx6 young women & queens & concubines 0 the women spoken of in [Song of Songs 6:8](./08.md).
6:9 al8y called her blessed 0 Alternate translation: “said that things had gone especially well for her”
6:10 cw4k General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe ULT understands this to be what the queens and the concubines said about the woman. However, some versions understand these to be the words of the man.
6:10 g6e9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is this who appears like the dawn & banners? 0 They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. Alternate translation: “This is an amazing woman! She comes into view like the dawn … banners!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
6:10 y3dp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile who appears like the dawn 0 The dawn is beautiful. The woman is beautiful. Alternate translation: “who comes into view like the dawn” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
6:10 vb8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners 0 The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the other women feel helpless, as if an army were approaching them. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 6:4](./04.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
6:11 x84j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe man finishes speaking to himself. Looking to see if plants had matured is probably a metaphor for enjoying the sight of the woman’s body. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:11 xmc2 grove 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:13](../04/12.md).
6:11 vs9r young growth 0 Alternate translation: “young plants” or “new shoots”
6:11 qw4q had budded 0 “had grown their buds.” Buds are the small round parts of plants which open up into flowers.
6:11 w8xh were in bloom 0 Alternate translation: “were opening their flowers”
6:12 lt9y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile I was so happy that I felt I was riding in the chariot of a prince 0 The man uses this image to express how happy he is. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
6:13 u681 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThis is 7:1, the first verse of chapter seven, in some versions. The ULT understands this to be the friends and the woman talking to each other. Some versions understand this to be the man speaking to the woman.
6:13 sm5j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns Turn back & gaze on you 0 Possible meanings here are: (1) the friends are speaking to the woman or (2) the man is referring to himself in plural. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
6:13 x9hk Turn back, turn back 0 “Come back, come back.” This is repeated for emphasis.
6:13 za54 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns we may gaze 0 Some versions understand the plural to refer to the man speaking of himself. Alternate translation: “I may gaze” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
6:13 c258 gaze 0 look intently for a long time
6:13 e2bm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns Why do you gaze on the perfect woman & armies 0 Possible meanings here are: (1) the woman refers to herself as another person and is speaking to the friends or (2) the woman is speaking to the man as if he were many men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
6:13 iqb9 as if on the dance between two armies 0 Alternate translation: “as if she were dancing between two armies”
7:intro hqv7 0 # Song of Songs 7 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Similes\nThere are many similes in this chapter. Their purpose is to describe the beauty of the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:1 z7jk General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThis is 7:2, the second verse of chapter seven, in some versions.
7:1 v8jn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit How beautiful your feet appear in your sandals 0 It may be that the woman is dancing ([Song of Songs 6:13](../06/13.md)). Alternate translation: “Your feet are so very beautiful in your sandals as you dance” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
7:1 k8va prince’s daughter 0 Another possible interpretation is “you who have a noble character.”
7:1 e9bd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The curves of your thighs are like jewels 0 The shape of the woman’s thighs remind the speaker of a beautiful precious stone that a skilled workman has carved. Alternate translation: “The curves of your thighs are beautiful like the beautiful curves of jewel that a skilled craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:1 xs8e your thighs 0 The word “thighs” refers to the hips of a woman and the part of her legs that is above her knee.
7:1 fc12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the work of the hands of a master craftsman 0 The hands are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “the work of a master craftsman” or “something that a master craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
7:2 u88e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your navel is like a round bowl 0 A bowl is round. The woman’s navel is round. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:2 dp5a navel 0 the spot on the stomach left from the cord that attaches a baby to its mother
7:2 n59p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor may it never lack mixed wine 0 People used large bowls to mix wine with water or spices at feasts. Drinking wine is a metaphor for enjoying beauty. The litotes can be translated as a positive. Alternate translation: “may it always contain mixed wine” or “may I always enjoy its beauty” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
7:2 q8fy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your belly is like a mound of wheat encircled with lilies 0 The Israelites thought mounds of wheat and lilies were pleasant to look at. Much wheat was a sign that there would be much food to eat. They threshed wheat in high, dry places, and lilies grow in low, wet places, so this simile combines beautiful sights that people would not usually see at the same time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:2 w6nh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your belly is like a mound of wheat 0 People thought that the color of wheat was the most beautiful color of skin and that round piles of wheat were beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your belly has a beautiful color and is round like a pile of wheat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:2 ah1p a mound of wheat 0 This is a pile of the grains of wheat after people remove the parts of it that they do not use.
7:2 cz8d encircled with lilies 0 Alternate translation: “with lilies all around it”
7:2 ue5r lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
7:3 jw6n two breasts 0 If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
7:3 ugf3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like two fawns, twins of a gazelle 0 The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:3 jh3u twins 0 the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
7:3 wr8t gazelle 0 an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
7:4 uv17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your neck is like a tower of ivory 0 A tower is long and straight. Ivory is white. The woman’s neck is long and straight, and her skin is light in color. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:4 b1sy a tower of ivory 0 Alternate translation: “a tower that people have decorated with ivory”
7:4 xgt7 ivory 0 the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make art and to make things look beautiful.
7:4 h4ih rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your eyes are the pools in Heshbon 0 The woman’s eyes are spoken of as if they are clear pools of water. Pools of water are clear and sparkle in the sunlight and so are pleasant to look at. The woman’s eyes are clear and sparkle and so are pleasant to look at. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “your eyes are as clear as the pools in Heshbon” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:4 md6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Heshbon 0 This is the name of a city east of the Jordan River (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
7:4 r1vf rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Bath Rabbim 0 This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
7:4 a4vg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile nose is like the tower in Lebanon 0 A tower is tall and straight, and her nose is tall and straight. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:4 s23k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy that looks toward Damascus 0 The tower looking is a metonym for people on the tower looking. Alternate translation: “that allows people to look toward Damascus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
7:5 jn22 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your head is on you like Carmel 0 Mount Carmel is higher than everything else around it. The man wants to look at the woman’s head more than at anything else. Alternate translation: “Your head is on you like a crown, higher than anything else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:5 sr83 dark purple 0 Other possible translations are: (1) “dark black” or (2) “dark red.”
7:5 hkk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The king is held captive by its tresses 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Your hair that hangs down is so beautiful that the king is not able to stop admiring it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
7:5 l5e5 tresses 0 the clusters of hair that hang down from a woman’s head
7:6 hqx3 my love, with delights 0 Alternate translation: “my love. You delight me”
7:7 j31f General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe man describes what he would like to do with the woman .
7:7 jy1s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your height is like that of a date palm tree 0 “You stand up like a date palm tree.” Date palm trees are tall and straight, and their branches are only at the top, with the fruit under the branches. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:7 f6me date palm tree 0 a tall, straight tree that produces a sweet, brown, and sticky fruit that grows in groups
7:7 jr1v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile your breasts like clusters of fruit 0 The dates on a palm tree grow soft and round in large bunches that hang from the tree just below the branches, which are all at the top. The woman’s breasts are soft and round and are just lower than her arms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:8 p7ge I said 0 “I thought” or “I said to myself.” The man said this silently.
7:8 r1b3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I want to climb & its branches 0 The man wants to embrace the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
7:8 w5g3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile May your breasts be like clusters of grapes 0 The man wants to touch her breasts. Clusters of grapes are round and soft. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:8 zfb8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile may the fragrance of your nose be like apricots 0 The word “nose” is a metonym for the breath coming out of the nose. Alternate translation: “may the breath coming from your nose smell sweet like apricots” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:8 f9is apricots 0 sweet yellow fruit
7:9 yrg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy May your palate be like the best wine 0 The palate is a metonym for the lips. Wine tastes good. The man wants to kiss the woman’s lips. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
7:9 rq12 flowing smoothly for my beloved 0 “that flows smoothly for the one I love.” The man enjoys the smooth kisses of the woman.
7:9 ed64 gliding over the lips of those who sleep 0 Alternate translation: “that flows over our lips as we sleep”
7:10 k7zq I am my beloved’s 0 See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 6:3](../06/01.md).
7:10 j44v my beloved’s 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one’s” or “my lover’s”
7:10 a143 he desires me 0 Alternate translation: “he wants to make love to me” or “he wants me”
7:11 bhr6 spend the night in the villages 0 Though the words here translated “spends the night” and “villages” appear together in [Song of Songs 1:13-14](../01/12.md) as “spends the night” and “henna flowers,” and the context both here and there is lovemaking, the ULT chooses this reading because the immediate metaphor is of the man and woman sleeping in the village, rising in the morning, and going out into the vineyards. The word for “henna plants” and the word for “villages” sound exactly the same.
7:12 iii6 rise early 0 Alternate translation: “get up early” or “wake up early”
7:12 cs6n have budded 0 Alternate translation: “have begun to bloom”
7:12 r952 blossoms 0 flowers when they are open
7:12 ukd9 are in flower 0 Alternate translation: “have flowers open on the plant”
7:12 q3a4 I will give you my love 0 Alternate translation: “I will make love with you”
7:13 v61b rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown mandrakes 0 This is the name of plants that give off a strong but pleasant scent. The scent is slightly intoxicating and stimulating, which increases the desire to make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
7:13 alp4 give off their fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “produce their scent” or “smell very nice”
7:13 xbk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit at the door 0 The doors belong to their house. Alternate translation: “above the entrances of our house” or “by the doors of our house” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
7:13 c2ah are all sorts of choice fruits, new and old 0 Alternate translation: “is every kind of the best fruit, both old fruit and new fruit”
7:13 jsb8 stored up for you 0 Alternate translation: “saved so I can give to you”
7:13 h8r2 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
8:intro d35n 0 # Song of Songs 8 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Kisses\nThe kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n### Passion\nThe chapter describes the passion that can exist between a husband a wife. This is the feeling of strong or uncontrollable desire for another person.
8:1 me7m rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
8:1 dp21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile you were like my brother 0 A woman could show affection for her brother in public. This woman wanted to be able to show affection for the man in public. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
8:1 v5fh you outside 0 Alternate translation: “you in public”
8:1 zyd6 I could kiss you 0 A woman would probably kiss her brother on his cheek order to greet him.
8:1 ec82 would despise me 0 Alternate translation: “would think that I am a bad person”
8:2 i6ch rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit she who taught me 0 taught her how to make love (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
8:2 s68s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I would give you spiced wine to drink and some of the juice of my pomegranates 0 The woman uses these images to say that she will give herself to the man and make love with him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:2 au41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor spiced wine 0 “wine with spices” or “wine that has spices in it.” This represents the intoxicating power of lovemaking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:3 s92v His left hand & embraces me 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:6](../02/05.md).
8:3 e5cp left hand & right hand 0 Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
8:3 v65k embraces me 0 Alternate translation: “holds me”
8:4 z8a4 I want you to swear 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md)
8:4 rk33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
8:4 qg8i that you will & until it pleases 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
8:5 a5w5 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe fifth part of the book begins here.
8:5 xxv3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is this who is coming up 0 They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. A similar phrase was translated in [Song of Songs 6:10](../06/10.md). Alternate translation: “Look at this amazing woman as she comes up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
8:5 p4rr I awakened you 0 Alternate translation: “I woke you up” or “I aroused you”
8:5 zfa2 the apricot tree 0 a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:3](../02/03.md).
8:5 g9tp there 0 under the apricot tree
8:5 d4ub she delivered you 0 Alternate translation: “she bore you”
8:6 jr5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Set me as a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm 0 This could mean: (1) because seals were very important, people always kept them around their neck or on their hand. The woman wants to be with the man constantly like a seal, or (2) a seal shows who owns the thing that has the seal on it, and the woman wants herself as the seal on the man’s heart and arm to show that all of his thoughts, emotions, and actions belong to her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
8:6 yzj4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile for love is as strong as death 0 Death is very strong because it overcomes even the most powerful people of the world. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
8:6 tci8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as unrelenting as Sheol 0 “as tough as Sheol.” Sheol never allows people to come back to life after they have already died. Love is as persistent as Sheol because it never changes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
8:6 fvz9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor its flames burst out & any other fire 0 Love is very powerful like fire. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:6 tw71 burst out 0 Alternate translation: “burn suddenly”
8:7 baf6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Surging waters cannot quench love 0 Love is so strong that it is like a fire that is so hot that it cannot be put out even with an ocean full of water. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:7 j6mc Surging waters 0 Alternate translation: “Oceans of water” or “Huge amounts of water”
8:7 dd1i cannot quench 0 Alternate translation: “cannot extinguish” or “cannot put out”
8:7 e1ej rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor nor can floods sweep it away 0 Love never changes and always stays the same so it is like something that not even a powerful flood can move. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:7 dju9 floods 0 In Israel, water from the rain flows into deep and narrow valleys. This creates a flood of water so powerful that it can move huge boulders and trees.
8:7 kqk9 sweep it away 0 Alternate translation: “carry it away” or “wash it away”
8:7 jwh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo If a man gave & the offer would utterly be despised 0 This is something that could possibly happen. Alternate translation: “Even if a man … he would be utterly despised” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
8:7 g5ja gave 0 offered to give
8:7 l4u3 all the possessions in his house 0 Alternate translation: “everything he owns”
8:7 n3pn for love 0 Alternate translation: “in order to get love” or “in order to buy love”
8:7 nt2s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the offer would utterly be despised 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people would completely despise him” or “people would harshly ridicule him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
8:8 au5a little sister 0 Alternate translation: “young sister”
8:8 t852 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What can we do & in marriage? 0 The speaker uses this question to introduce what he wants to say. Alternate translation: “This is what we will do … in marriage.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
8:8 g5fp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom she will be promised in marriage 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a man comes and wants to marry her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
8:9 mpf5 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe young woman’s brothers continue to speak among themselves.
8:9 x3j1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor If she is a wall & If she is a door 0 The little sister ([Song of Songs 8:8](./08.md)) has very small breasts that either have not grown or are very small. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:9 am5u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor we will build on her a tower of silver & we will adorn her with boards of cedar 0 The brothers decide to decorate the little sister with silver and cedar, symbols of riches, so that she will be more likely to attract a good husband. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:9 cnw3 will adorn her 0 Alternate translation: “will decorate her”
8:10 n2vy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I was a wall 0 The wall is a metaphor for a woman with small breasts. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:10 mc78 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile my breasts are now like fortress towers 0 Fortress towers are tall. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
8:10 rll2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I am in his eyes as one 0 Here eyes are a metonym for judgment or value. Alternate translation: “I am in his judgment as one” or “he thinks of me as one” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
8:10 b5uu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit brings peace 0 You may need to make explicit to whom the woman brings peace. Alternate translation: “brings him peace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
8:10 hi47 peace 0 Alternate translation: “well-being”
8:11 tt74 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nPossible interpretations: (1) The woman contrasts the way she wants to give herself to the man, who will give her his love, to the way Solomon leases out his vineyard to those who will give him money. (2) The man contrasts the woman, whom he will not give to another man, to Solomon’s vineyard, which he gave to other men.
8:11 x2c3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Baal Hamon 0 This is the name of a town in the northern part of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
8:11 mz3u gave the vineyard 0 leased, agreed to let other people pay him so they could grow grapes in the vineyard
8:11 b1b3 to those who would maintain it 0 Alternate translation: “to people who would take care of it”
8:11 h77m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis Each one was to bring a thousand shekels of silver for its fruit 0 It may be helpful to state that this payment was for the fruit of the vineyard. Alternate translation: “Each man was supposed to give Solomon a thousand shekels as payment for the fruit of the vineyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
8:11 t2dp rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney to bring a thousand shekels of silver 0 “to bring 1,000 shekels of silver.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
8:11 e3jp shekels 0 Alternate translation: “coins”
8:11 mm2j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Solomon 0 Some versions understand the woman to be speaking directly to Solomon. Others understand her to be speaking in an apostrophe to her friends, to the man, or to herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
8:12 za66 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My vineyard, my very own 0 The woman refers to herself as a vineyard, as in [Song of Songs 1:6](../01/05.md). Here she emphasizes that she and no one else will decide what she dies with the “vineyard.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8:12 gc75 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom is before me 0 This is an idiom that means the a person has the right to do what they want with something. Alternate translation: “is at my disposal” or “is mine to do with as I desire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
8:12 tl1c the thousand shekels are for you, Solomon 0 The woman knows that Solomon has leased out the vineyard so he can get money, but she does not want money.
8:12 t7u1 the two hundred shekels 0 The speaker has not mentioned these before, but the hearer would understand that she is speaking of the money that those who worked the vineyard would have left for their own after they paid Solomon.
8:13 dp6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you You who live 0 The man is speaking to the woman, so “you” and “live” are feminine singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
8:13 zm5h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy listening for your voice 0 The voice is a metonym for what the person says. If your language has a word for thinking only of what one is listening for, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “waiting to hear you start speaking” or “waiting to hear what you have to say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
8:13 ew6z let me hear it 0 Alternate translation: “let me hear your voice.”
8:14 vrp7 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
8:14 zh44 like a gazelle or a young stag 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](../02/08.md).
8:14 yhn7 gazelle 0 a type of slender deer-like animal with long curved horns
8:14 gp9l stag 0 an adult male deer
8:14 mqx9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the mountains of spices 0 “the mountains that have spices all over them.” The woman uses this metaphor to invite the man to make love to her. See how the man uses the metaphor of a mountain of myrrh and a hill of frankincense in [Song of Songs 4:6](../04/06.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1 Reference ID Tags SupportReference Quote Occurrence Note
2 front:intro an3g 0 # Introduction to the Song of Songs\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the Song of Songs\n\n1. The bride longs for the bridegroom to arrive (1:1–2:7)\n1. The bridegroom praises the woman he loves (2:8–3:5)\n1. The bridegroom arrives and praises the bride (3:6–5:1)\n1. The bride longs for the bridegroom (5:2–6:9)\n1. The bridegroom praises the beauty of his bride (6:1–8:4)\n1. Final thoughts about love between a man and a woman (8:5–14)\n\n### What is the Song of Songs about?\n\nThe Song of Songs is a poem or a series of poems that celebrate love and intimacy between a man and a woman. Jews traditionally have interpreted the book as a picture of God’s love for his people Israel. In the same way, many Christians interpret it as a picture of love between Christ and his bride, the church of all believers.\n\n### Who wrote the Song of Songs?\n\nThe first verse of the book (“The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s”) gives the idea that King Solomon of Israel wrote it. However, people have interpreted this verse in different ways, so not everyone is persuaded that Solomon wrote it.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nThis book is traditionally titled “Song of Songs,” which means the very best song, or “Song of Solomon.” It may also be called “Songs of Love,” “Great Poems of Love,” or “The Love Songs of Solomon.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### What place do the descriptions of sexual behavior have in the Song of Songs?\n\nThe Song of Songs approves of sexual behavior expressing love between a husband his wife.\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### How many characters are in the Song of Songs?\n\nThe two main characters in this book are the man and the woman, who love each other. The woman also speaks to a group of women called the “daughters of Jerusalem,” and these women make comments. However, it is possible that the group of women is not real and the woman is only imagining them.\n\nSome interpreters believe there may be more characters than these, but this is not certain. The ULT and UST versions recognize only the man, the woman, and the group of women.\n\n### What are the lines about people speaking?\n\nThe Song of Songs is a poem that shows the thoughts and words of a man, a woman, and the woman’s friends. Throughout the poem, the author does not identify the speakers and their audience. So to help readers understand the poem, some translations attempt to identify the speaker and the audience. It is not always certain who the speaker is, so sometimes translations disagree about who is speaking.\n\nBefore each speech, the ULT identifies the speaker and the audience like this: “The woman speaking to the other women,” “The woman speaking to the man,” “The man speaking to the woman,” or “The woman speaking to herself.” Translators are encouraged to include these ways of identifying the speaker and the audience, and to format them differently from the scripture text. The translators should also include a note explaining that these explanations are not actually part of the scripture.\n\n### How should one translate the Song of Songs if the readers will view certain terms as coarse, vulgar, or improper?\n\nReaders might consider many images or forms appearing in the Song of Songs as improper when translated. The translator should try to avoid offensive language if possible, by using expressions that will not cause offense. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])\n\n### How do I translate metaphors and similes in this book?\n\nThere are many metaphors and similes in this book. These figures of speech are often unclear. If they have sexual meanings, figures of speech describing feelings or emotions are often used to avoid offense by hiding their meaning. However, since their meanings are often unclear, ambiguity in translation is encouraged. You can translate the words as they are written in order to avoid committing to a specific meaning. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3 1:intro xrm2 0 # Song of Songs 1 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Kisses\nThe kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n### Love and affection\nThis chapter is centered on the feelings of love, affection, and attraction. Different cultural standards may make translation difficult and the translator may use euphemisms to avoid offending people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “I am dark”\nIn the ancient Near East, rich people usually had lighter skin because they did not need to work outside in the sun. This young woman had to work out in the sun, and her skin became darker than it was when she was younger.
4 1:1 fna4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
5 1:1 qbe2 The Song of Songs 0 Alternate translation: “The Best Song” or “The Most Excellent Song”
6 1:1 r5ns which is Solomon’s 0 Possible meanings are “which is about Solomon” or “which Solomon composed.”
7 1:2 j5xq General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe first part of the book begins with this verse.
8 1:2 nze7 your love is better than wine 0 Alternate translation: “I enjoy having you near me more than I enjoy drinking wine”
9 1:3 si36 Your anointing oils 0 Alternate translation: “The oils that you put on your body”
10 1:3 d9r7 have a delightful fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “smell wonderful”
11 1:3 z9t3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile your name is like flowing perfume 0 Perfume has a good smell that spreads as the air moves. The name is either a metonym for: (1) the person’s reputation, what other people think of him. Here the speaker says that people always think that the hearer is a good person, or (2) the person himself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
12 1:4 v83t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you with you 0 “The word “you” refers to the man and so is singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
13 1:4 gec8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Take 0 “Pull” or “Drag.” Here the woman described as being like a captive who is willing to follow her captor. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
14 1:4 ty2p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive we will run 0 The word “we” refers to the young woman together with the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
15 1:4 isr6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns We are glad & We rejoice & let us celebrate 0 The woman speaks of herself as if she were more than one person. Many versions change the pronoun to “I” as the UST does. Other versions present these as the words of the woman’s friends speaking about either the woman or the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
16 1:4 at7l about you 0 Alternate translation: “because of you”
17 1:4 geq4 let us celebrate 0 Alternate translation: “let us praise”
18 1:4 ag8r It is natural for the other women to adore you 0 Alternate translation: “Women who adore you are doing as they should do”
19 1:5 ez2x I am dark but lovely 0 Alternate translation: “My skin is dark, but I am still beautiful” or “Even though my skin is dark, I am beautiful”
20 1:5 rbb3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile dark like the tents of Kedar 0 The nomadic tribes in Kedar used black goat skins to build their homes. The woman is comparing her skin to these tents. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
21 1:5 dc13 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile lovely like the curtains of Solomon 0 Solomon produced beautiful curtains either for his own palace or for the Temple. She says that her skin is beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
22 1:6 thz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole scorched 0 This exaggeration for “burned” or “made black” refers to the sun changing her skin from light to dark. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
23 1:6 fz9h My mother’s sons 0 “My half-brothers.” These brothers probably had the same mother as the woman but not the same father.
24 1:6 v86f made me keeper of the vineyards 0 Alternate translation: “made me take care of the vineyards”
25 1:6 w18k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor but my own vineyard I have not kept 0 The woman compares herself to a vineyard. Alternate translation: “but I have not been able to take care of myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
26 1:7 f9hi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy my soul loves 0 The soul is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “I love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
27 1:7 v54w feed your flock 0 Alternate translation: “graze your flocks”
28 1:7 f5eb rest your flock 0 Alternate translation: “have your flock lie down”
29 1:7 v6rs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Why should I be like someone who wanders beside the flocks of your companions? 0 The woman asks this question to emphasize that she has a closer relationship to the man than other women do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Tell me so that I will not need to wander around among the flocks of your companions when I am looking for you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
30 1:7 bq95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor who wanders 0 “who goes all around.” She does not want to have to look for the man. Perhaps she is afraid other men will think she is a prostitute looking for business. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
31 1:7 b552 your companions 0 Alternate translation: “your friends” or “your co-workers”
32 1:8 nky4 most beautiful among women 0 Alternate translation: “you who are the most beautiful of all women”
33 1:8 al9c follow the tracks of my flock 0 Alternate translation: “follow along behind the flock”
34 1:8 i8sl tracks 0 marks of the hooves of the flock on the ground
35 1:8 fis9 pasture your young goats 0 Alternate translation: “graze your young goats” or “let your young goats eat”
36 1:9 gw76 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile I compare you, my love, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariot horses 0 The Jews of those days considered horses beautiful, and the Pharaoh’s horses would have been the most beautiful he could find. The man considers the young woman beautiful. Alternate translation: “My love, you are as beautiful as any of Pharaoh’s chariot horses” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
37 1:9 l3q7 my love 0 Alternate translation: “you whom I love”
38 1:9 zyj5 Pharaoh’s chariot horses 0 Alternate translation: “the horses that pull Pharaoh’s chariots”
39 1:10 u7h9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your cheeks are beautiful with ornaments 0 These ornaments could be: (1) jewels hanging from a band around the head or (2) earrings or (3) a metaphor for her long hair. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
40 1:11 dza7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns We will make 0 The man speaks as if he were many people. Some versions change this to singular “I.” Other versions take these to be the words of the woman’s friends. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
41 1:11 bp6l with silver studs 0 Alternate translation: “with spots of silver”
42 1:12 zt7d lay on his couch 0 “sat eating his special meal.” This probably refers to one of the couches on which people would lie around a table at a banquet. You could translate using the common word for what people do with their bodies when they eat special meals.
43 1:12 ur66 nard 0 an oil that people got from the expensive nard or spikenard (valerian plant with small pink or white flowers) and used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor.
44 1:12 lp8f emitted its fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “gave off its good smell”
45 1:13 vc5v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile My beloved is to me like a bag of myrrh & breasts 0 Women would place a small bag or pouch of myrrh on a necklace so it would lie between their breasts and they could enjoy its pleasant fragrance. This woman enjoys having her beloved close to her. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy having a bag of myrrh … breasts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
46 1:13 bzs7 My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
47 1:13 f8y8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism lying between my breasts 0 If this phrase would offend your readers, you could use a euphemism. Alternate translation: “close to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
48 1:14 zh75 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile My beloved is to me like a cluster of henna flowers 0 Henna flowers have a fragrance that people enjoy. The woman enjoys her beloved. She adds “to me” to show that she does not expect anyone else to enjoy her beloved in this way. Alternate translation: “I enjoy my beloved as much as I enjoy the smell of clusters of henna flowers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
49 1:14 a6jk henna flowers 0 flowers from a small desert tree that people used as a perfume
50 1:15 x2d5 Listen, you 0 Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
51 1:15 m114 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](./09.md)
52 1:15 fb4x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy your eyes are doves 0 This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. Alternate translation: “you are very gentle” or (2) the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes as being like the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
53 1:16 sbi4 Listen, you 0 Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: you”
54 1:16 km29 handsome 0 Use the word in your language that describes a good-looking man.
55 1:16 x3pr my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
56 1:16 q43e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lush plants are our bed 0 This speaks of the lush plants as if they were a bed. Alternate translation: “lush plants are what we lie down on to sleep” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
57 1:16 xed8 The lush plants 0 plants that are green, moist, and grow abundantly
58 1:17 v14z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are firs 0 The woman describes the forest as though it were a house in which they were lying down. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
59 1:17 q6r8 beams & rafters 0 This could mean: (1) “beams” refers to large logs used to support everything above the walls and “rafters” refers to the large pieces of wood to which the roof is attached or (2) “beams” refers to the rafters and “rafters” refers to the strips attached to the beams, onto which the builders attached the roofing materials.
60 1:17 c3e5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown cedars & firs 0 Cedars were large and strong trees. The word translated “firs” is a general term for trees like cedars but smaller. If cedar and fir trees are unknown in your area, you could use general terms for the tallest and strongest trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
61 2:intro u8uv 0 # Song of Songs 2 General Notes\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphor\nWomen are compared to flowers in this chapter. This metaphor may describe a woman’s beauty and delicacy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### Euphemisms\nIt is possible that some of the metaphors used in this chapter are actually euphemisms. These euphemisms would refer to sex or the physical love between a husband a wife. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
62 2:1 bw25 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
63 2:1 cne2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I am a meadow flower of Sharon 0 The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
64 2:1 ni5p Sharon 0 the name of a land that is flat, has no trees, and grows many different kinds of grasses and flowers
65 2:1 vve6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor lily of the valleys 0 The woman speaks as if she were one of many flowers in a land known for beautiful flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
66 2:1 nt8f lily 0 a sweet smelling flower that grows in places where there is much water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md).
67 2:1 e9ke valleys 0 flat areas between mountains and near water
68 2:2 ibi6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As a lily among thorns & young women 0 A flower is much more beautiful than a thorn bush. The man thinks the woman is much more beautiful than the other women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
69 2:2 bi45 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
70 2:2 y9bu the young women 0 Alternate translation: “the other young women”
71 2:3 xz7y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile As an apricot tree & the young men 0 People enjoy the fruit of an apricot tree, but the trees of the forest do not bear fruit. The woman enjoys being with the man, but not with the other young men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
72 2:3 yr6x apricot tree 0 a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.”
73 2:3 wf4u the forest 0 The Hebrew word here refers to land where trees grow for which people have no use.
74 2:3 q7kl my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
75 2:3 pii3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I sit down under his shadow with great delight 0 The woman finds great joy and comfort in being so near to the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
76 2:3 b5ai rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his fruit is sweet to my taste 0 The woman enjoys eating sweet fruit, and she enjoys being near to the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
77 2:4 ift6 the house of wine 0 This could mean: (1) the very large room where the king would serve many people large meals with wine or (2) a small booth in a vineyard where the man and woman could be alone together.
78 2:4 rp8q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy his banner over me was love 0 This could mean: (1) the banner is a metonym for a military escort. And, the military escort is a metaphor that represents the man’s love which gives courage to the woman who was nervous to enter the large room where the king served many people. Alternate translation: “but his loving protection guided me and gave me courage” or (2) the woman knew that the man wanted to make love to her from the way he looked at her. Alternate translation: “he looked at me lovingly” or “when he looked at me, I knew he wanted to make love to me” or (3) they made love. Alternate translation: “he lovingly covered me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
79 2:5 uxb2 Revive me 0 Alternate translation: “Return my strength” or “Give me energy”
80 2:5 khc1 with raisin cakes 0 “by giving me raisin cakes to eat.” Raisin cakes were cakes made of dried grapes pressed together.
81 2:5 gs2a refresh me with apricots 0 Alternate translation: “support me by giving me apricots” or “help me by giving me apricots”
82 2:5 y4qy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor for I am weak with love 0 The woman speaks of feeling weak because her love is so strong as if love were a kind of sickness. Alternate translation: “because my love is so strong that I feel feeble” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
83 2:6 m6ys left hand & right hand 0 Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
84 2:6 fq8w embraces me 0 Alternate translation: “holds me”
85 2:7 l67b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
86 2:7 n4wq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe by the gazelles and the does of the fields 0 Although the daughters of Jerusalem could not hear her, the woman speaks to them as if they could hear saying that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
87 2:7 sz5c the gazelles 0 These are animals that look like deer and move quickly.
88 2:7 nt79 does 0 female deer
89 2:7 w94r of the fields 0 “that live in the countryside.” This was land that has not been farmed.
90 2:7 ekc3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases 0 Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
91 2:7 fz3j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet will not awaken or arouse 0 If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
92 2:8 aay2 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe second part of the book begins here. It is not clear whether the woman is speaking to herself or to the daughters of Jerusalem.
93 2:8 j2nl Listen 0 This could mean: (1) “Listen carefully to what I am about to say.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully, or (2) “Listen so you can hear him coming.”
94 2:8 rn51 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
95 2:8 dm9e leaping & jumping 0 The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
96 2:8 fr67 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor leaping over the mountains, jumping over the hills 0 “leaping on the mountains, running quickly on the hills.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 9) coming quickly toward her over rough ground. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
97 2:9 l5ni gazing & peering 0 The woman shows that she is excited to see the man come by using as few words as possible to describe what he is doing. Your language may have a different way of showing that the speaker is excited about what is happening.
98 2:9 f2lu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a gazelle or a young stag 0 Gazelles and young stags move quickly over rough ground. The woman imagines the man coming as fast as he can to be with her. You could translate using animals in your language that people think of as fast. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
99 2:9 kq5f a gazelle 0 This is an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “the gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
100 2:9 qbs9 a young stag 0 Alternate translation: “a young male deer”
101 2:9 s6z4 look 0 “listen carefully” or “what I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
102 2:9 umf5 behind our wall 0 “on the other side of our wall.” The woman is in a house and the man is outside the house.
103 2:9 be2w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive our wall 0 The word “our” refers to the woman and the other people in the house with her. If she is speaking to herself, it is inclusive, but if she is speaking to the daughters of Jerusalem, whether she is referring to herself and her companions or to herself only in plural, as in “We are glad … We rejoice … let us celebrate” ([Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md)), it is exclusive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
104 2:9 kf9u gazing through the window 0 Alternate translation: “he stares in through the windows”
105 2:9 s9xt peering through the lattice 0 Alternate translation: “he peeks through the lattice”
106 2:9 z1bl lattice 0 a cover for a window or some other entrance that someone has made by weaving long strips of wood together. Lattices have holes that people can look through.
107 2:10 hl12 My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
108 2:10 pah1 Arise, my love 0 Alternate translation: “Get out of bed, my love”
109 2:10 fff7 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
110 2:11 yv91 Look 0 “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully.
111 2:11 eyh9 the winter is past; the rain is over and gone 0 In winter it is too cold and wet to make love outside, but the cold, wet time has passed.
112 2:11 e658 the winter is past 0 Winter is the cold time of year when plants do not grow and people prefer to stay inside their houses. You could use the term in your language for that time of year.
113 2:11 f4hz the rain is over and gone 0 In Israel it only rains during the winter. The rain here is cold and unpleasant, not the refreshing rain of the hot season.
114 2:12 wfw3 The flowers have appeared 0 Alternate translation: “People can see flowers”
115 2:12 j8f3 in the land 0 Alternate translation: “all over this land”
116 2:12 sv72 for pruning 0 for cutting off branches from a plant so that it will produce more fruit or look better
117 2:12 x3li the singing of birds 0 Alternate translation: “for birds to sing”
118 2:12 zmw4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the sound of the doves is heard 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people can hear the sound of doves” or “the doves are cooing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
119 2:13 mk2y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification The fig tree ripens her green figs 0 The tree is spoken of as if it were actively causing its fruit to ripen. This is a collective singular and can be translated as a plural. Alternate translation: “The figs on the trees are becoming ripe” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
120 2:13 ef3j vines are in blossom 0 Alternate translation: “vines are flowering” or “vines have flowers”
121 2:13 xhn3 they give off 0 The word “they” refers to the blossoms on the vines.
122 2:13 wjr7 their fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “their sweet smell”
123 2:13 m4mt my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md)
124 2:14 a7lp General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe man is speaking.
125 2:14 wv7q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My dove 0 The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. Alternate translation: “My beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
126 2:14 eju1 the clefts 0 large cracks in the side of mountain rocks large enough for people to hide in
127 2:14 afg5 the mountain crags 0 Alternate translation: “the steep rocks on the sides of the mountains”
128 2:14 bhl6 your face 0 Some versions translate this as “your appearance” or “your form” or “what you look like.”
129 2:15 pu8l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you Catch 0 This is plural, as if the woman is speaking to more than one man, but most versions translate who she is speaking to as the man, so you could translate this as singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
130 2:15 xns5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the foxes 0 These animals look like small dogs and were often used in love poetry to represent eager young men who would spoil a young woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
131 2:15 v31m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive for us & our vineyard 0 The words **us** and **our** could possibly be: (1) exclusive, referring to the woman herself, as in [Song of Songs 1:4](../01/01.md), or (2) inclusive, referring to the woman and the man, or (3) exclusive, referring to the woman and the rest of her family. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
132 2:15 dac9 foxes 0 Another possible meaning is “jackals.” A jackal is a type of thin wild dog with long legs.
133 2:15 wl95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the little foxes that spoil 0 Foxes spoil or destroy vineyards by digging holes and eating vines and grapes. This could be a metaphor for young men who spoil young women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
134 2:15 r16k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor in blossom 0 This implies that the vineyard is healthy and the grapes have appeared, but they are not ready for harvest. This could be a metaphor for a young lady ready for marriage and bearing children. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:13](./12.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
135 2:16 zb2r My beloved is mine 0 Alternate translation: “My beloved belongs to me”
136 2:16 lxy4 I am his 0 Alternate translation: “I belong to him”
137 2:16 n6c3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor he grazes 0 “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” (verse 17) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](./01.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
138 2:16 x5db lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](./01.md).
139 2:17 b3kg my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
140 2:17 p2uq dawn 0 the part of the day when the sun is rising
141 2:17 lz3y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the shadows flee away 0 The woman describes the shadows as though they were running away from the light of the sun. Alternate translation: “the shadows disappear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
142 2:17 d8mw like a gazelle or a young stag 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](./08.md).
143 2:17 vlw3 gazelle 0 an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](./07.md).
144 2:17 l8dz stag 0 an adult male deer
145 2:17 ia1r rugged mountains 0 Alternate translation: “rocky mountains” or “rough mountains”
146 3:intro t72h 0 # Song of Songs 3 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Longing\nThis chapter describes a feeling of longing, or the waiting in anticipation of the one you love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
147 3:1 l1kv I was longing for him & could not find him 0 Alternate translation: “I had a strong desire to be with him … loves, but he was not there”
148 3:1 hu3u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy him whom my soul loves 0 The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
149 3:2 uyu7 go through the city 0 Alternate translation: “walk through the city”
150 3:2 x9ki through the streets and squares 0 The word “squares” indicates the center area of a town where streets or roads come together. It is often an area where people sell items, a market, and a place where people come together to talk.
151 3:2 afu9 will search 0 Alternate translation: “will to look for”
152 3:3 rdd5 watchmen 0 men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe
153 3:3 b9j2 as they were making their rounds in the city 0 Alternate translation: “who were walking around the city on the walls”
154 3:3 pab8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy him whom my soul loves 0 The soul is a metonym for the whole person. Here it makes a stronger statement of the woman’s love for the man than “my beloved” ([Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md)). See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:1](./01.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
155 3:4 p5k2 the bedroom 0 Alternate translation: “the room for sleeping”
156 3:4 ri8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the one who had conceived me 0 This is a metonym for her mother. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
157 3:5 a3y1 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nTranslate this verse as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
158 3:5 t61g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
159 3:5 qw1m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe by the gazelles and the does of the fields 0 Although the daughters of Jerusalem are not there to hear her, the woman is telling them that the gazelles and the does will punish them they break their promise. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
160 3:5 b4r5 the gazelles 0 animals that look like deer and move quickly.
161 3:5 ruq7 does 0 female deer
162 3:5 n2aq of the fields 0 “that live in the countryside.” This refers to land that has not been farmed.
163 3:5 cm9r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification will not awaken or arouse love until she pleases 0 Here “love” is spoken of as if it were a person asleep that does not want to be awakened. This is a metaphor that represents the man and woman who do not want to be disturbed until they are finished making love. Alternate translation: “will not disturb us until we have finished making love” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
164 3:5 dbf9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet will not awaken or arouse 0 If your language has only one word for waking people out of sleep, you could combine these words. Alternate translation: “will not awaken” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
165 3:6 e1ly General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe third part of the book begins here. It begins with a description of sixty men carrying Solomon’s bed up from the wilderness to Jerusalem.
166 3:6 y8wr What is that coming up from the wilderness 0 The group of people is traveling from the wilderness to Jerusalem. They must go up in order to reach Jerusalem because the wilderness is low in the Jordan valley and Jerusalem is high in the mountains.
167 3:6 z3w1 What is that 0 Many versions translate this “Who is that.”
168 3:6 tjf4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like a column of smoke 0 The dust looked like smoke from far away because the people raised much dust in the air as they traveled. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
169 3:6 w7kr perfumed with myrrh and frankincense 0 Alternate translation: “with the sweet smell of myrrh and frankincense”
170 3:6 bf7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis with all the powders sold by merchants 0 The words “perfumed with” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “perfumed with all the powders sold by merchants” or “and with the sweet smell of all the powders that merchants sell” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
171 3:6 sy9j powders 0 a fine dust made by crushing something solid
172 3:7 ldh8 Look 0 “Listen carefully” or “What I am about to say is important.” You could use a word in your language that tells the hearer to listen carefully. The speaker now discovers the answer to the question in verse 6.
173 3:7 e4uw it is the bed 0 This refers to a bed with a cover that can be carried from one place to another.
174 3:7 rd7d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet sixty warriors surround it, sixty soldiers of Israel 0 These two phrases refer to the same sixty people. The second phrase clarifies that the “warriors” are “soldiers of Israel.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
175 3:7 u16s warriors 0 men who fight
176 3:8 mm7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background 0 A description of the bed itself begins in verse 9. You could use words in your language that show that this is background information. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
177 3:8 v2yx are experienced in warfare 0 Alternate translation: “can fight battles well”
178 3:8 z9n4 armed against 0 Alternate translation: “so that he can fight against”
179 3:8 jqy9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns terrors of the night 0 Here, “terrors” is a metonym for evil people who frighten others by attacking them. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **terrors**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “evil people who attack others at night” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
180 3:9 nnm6 sedan chair 0 This is a chair or couch for important people to sit or lie on. It rests on long poles that people can use to carry it
181 3:10 f5mj rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background 0 The description of the bed itself that began in [Song of Songs 3:9](./08.md) continues. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
182 3:10 w2at Its posts 0 The word “its” refers to King Solomon’s sedan chair.
183 3:10 xnj4 posts 0 The word “posts” here refers to pieces either made of silver or made of wood covered with silver that hold up the tent of cloth around his chair.
184 3:10 rr69 Its interior was 0 Alternate translation: “The inside of it was”
185 3:10 apj8 with love 0 This could mean: (1) “with love,” indicating that the women made the sedan beautiful in a special way to show their love for Solomon, or (2) “with leather.”
186 3:11 i961 daughters of Zion 0 Alternate translation: “you young women who live in Zion”
187 3:11 sj76 gaze on King Solomon 0 “look at King Solomon.” The word “gaze” refers to look at someone or something for a long time, usually with strong emotional feeling.
188 3:11 tf1d bearing the crown 0 Alternate translation: “wearing the crown”
189 3:11 ei7z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy the day of the joy of his heart 0 The word “heart” is a metonym for the person. Alternate translation: “the day on which he truly rejoiced” or “the happiest day of his life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
190 4:intro r3aw 0 # Song of Songs 4 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### “My sister, my bride”\nThe woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
191 4:1 rg3f rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
192 4:1 m3g6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your eyes are doves 0 One possibility is that the man is speaking of the woman’s white eyeballs or the shape of her eyes, the shape of a dove. Another possibility is that the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the man considers the woman’s eyes beautiful because the way the woman looks at him makes him think she is gentle. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). Alternate translation: “You are very gentle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
193 4:1 z6f7 my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
194 4:1 pnn4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your hair is like a flock of goats going down from Mount Gilead 0 Goats in Israel were usually dark in color. The woman’s hair was probably dark. You may need to specify that the goats were dark or even use another simile that the reader will understand that refers to something dark and beautiful. People thought of Mount Gilead as beautiful and fertile. The speaker considered the woman beautiful and ready to become the mother of his children. If you remove the simile of the goats, you may have to remove the simile of the mountain as well. Alternate translation: “Your hair is as dark as storm clouds above a fertile land” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
195 4:2 bdg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes 0 After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
196 4:2 cj59 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive a flock of newly shorn ewes 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a flock of ewes whose wool people have cut off” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
197 4:2 wc12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit coming up from the washing place 0 The ewes are coming up out of the water. Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
198 4:2 jw1w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Each one has a twin 0 Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lambs usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
199 4:2 vl9d none among them is bereaved 0 Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth.
200 4:2 sb14 bereaved 0 lost a loved one who has died
201 4:3 t9kf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like a thread of scarlet 0 Scarlet is a beautiful red color, and scarlet thread was very expensive. The woman’s lips were red. Alternate translation: “are a deep red like scarlet thread” or “are red and very beautiful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
202 4:3 v1ae scarlet 0 a dark red color that is very similar to the color of blood
203 4:3 q1mk is lovely 0 Alternate translation: “is beautiful”
204 4:3 j2a3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like pomegranate halves 0 Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
205 4:3 y47i behind your veil 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](./01.md).
206 4:4 i3qt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your neck is like the tower of David 0 No one knows if this was a real tower. A tower is a tall, slender building, and saying that David built it implies that it was beautiful. The man considered the woman’s neck long and slender and so beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your neck is long and beautiful like the tower of David” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
207 4:4 v4ae of David 0 Alternate translation: “that David built”
208 4:4 cq2q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor built in rows of stone 0 Women had necklaces that covered their entire necks with rows of decorations. The man compares these rows of decorations with the rows of stone on the tower. Alternate translation: “that has many rows of stone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
209 4:4 c4nk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor with a thousand shields 0 The man compares the decorations of the woman’s necklace with shields hanging on the tower. The necklace probably went around her neck many times. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
210 4:4 wgq3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers a thousand shields 0 “1,000 shields.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
211 4:4 swd3 all the shields of soldiers 0 Alternate translation: “all of the shields belong to mighty warriors”
212 4:5 f8qi two breasts 0 If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it.
213 4:5 ea9j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like two fawns, twins of a gazelle 0 The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
214 4:5 wd7y twins 0 the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time
215 4:5 gu86 gazelle 0 an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
216 4:5 p33d grazing among the lilies 0 “eating plants among the lilies.” While it is clear that the man “grazing among the lilies” is a metaphor for making love ([Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md)), it is not clear what these words refer to. It is best to translate them literally.
217 4:5 bb93 lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
218 4:6 y1xu Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee away 0 Translate similar wording in this line as you did the line in [Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md).
219 4:6 re83 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I will go to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense 0 The “mountain of myrrh” and “hill of frankincense” are metaphors for the woman’s breasts ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md)). Alternate translation: “I will lie close to your breasts, which are like mountains that smell like myrrh and frankincense” or “I will lie close to your breasts, which smell very sweet” or “I will go to the sweet-smelling mountains” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
220 4:6 bm4n the mountain of myrrh 0 Alternate translation: “the mountain made of myrrh” or “the mountain that has myrrh growing on it”
221 4:6 ekc1 the hill of frankincense 0 Alternate translation: “the hill where there are clouds of smoke from burning frankincense in the air”
222 4:7 wt7k You are beautiful in every way 0 Alternate translation: “Every part of you is beautiful” or “All of you is beautiful”
223 4:7 l1xq my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
224 4:7 ci96 there is no blemish in you 0 Alternate translation: “you have no blemish”
225 4:8 h4yw from Lebanon 0 Alternate translation: “away from Lebanon”
226 4:8 j8s2 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife.
227 4:8 m2km rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Amana 0 the name of a mountain north of Israel (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
228 4:8 ir9l rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Senir 0 the name of a mountain near Amana and Hermon. Some people think that this refers to the same mountain as Hermon. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
229 4:8 ybd2 dens 0 places where lions and leopards live, like caves or holes in the ground
230 4:9 d7n7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom You have stolen my heart 0 This idiom could mean: (1) “My heart now belongs completely to you” or (2) “I strongly desire to make love to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
231 4:9 vdf7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
232 4:9 k4ah my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:8](./08.md).
233 4:9 d83s heart, with just one look at me, with just one jewel 0 “heart. All you have to do is look at me once or show me just one jewel.” Both the woman’s eyes and her jewelry attract the man to her.
234 4:9 laj2 necklace 0 This necklace probably went around her neck many times ([Song of Songs 4:4](./04.md)).
235 4:10 g6qt How beautiful is your love 0 Alternate translation: “Your love is wonderful”
236 4:10 v1gy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
237 4:10 ibb8 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./08.md).
238 4:10 td9x How much better is your love than wine 0 “Your love is much better than wine.” See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 1:2](../01/01.md).
239 4:10 ts8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis the fragrance of your perfume than any spice 0 The verb may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “how much better is the fragrance of your perfume than the fragrance of any spice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
240 4:10 wzb4 fragrance & perfume 0 See how you translated these words in [Song of Songs 1:3](../01/01.md).
241 4:10 r5ni spice 0 dried plants or seeds that have a good smell or taste
242 4:11 fw88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Your lips & drip honey 0 Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
243 4:11 vc6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor honey and milk are under your tongue 0 Because “milk and honey” is a common phrase in the Bible, you should translate literally. Possible meanings are that honey is a metaphor for: (1) the sweet taste of the woman’s kisses or (2) the woman’s words. Milk is a metaphor for luxury, owning many things that help people enjoy life. When the woman kisses the man, he enjoys life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
244 4:11 nyc9 the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon 0 “the smell of your clothes is like the smell of Lebanon.” Many cedar trees grew in Lebanon. Cedar trees smell very good, so Lebanon would have smelled sweet and fresh.
245 4:12 whp4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom My sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md). Alternate translation: “My dear” or “My darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
246 4:12 nrw6 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](./09.md).
247 4:12 j45u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor is a garden locked up 0 “is a garden that no one can enter.” The garden is a metaphor for the woman, and the lock is a metaphor for her still being a virgin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
248 4:12 i5nb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor a spring that is sealed 0 “a spring with a cover on it.” The spring or well is a metaphor for the woman, and the cover is a metaphor for her being a virgin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
249 4:13 uvg6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism Your branches 0 branches or channels of rivers, a clear euphemism for the female body part. If any reference to this would be offensive, translate it as a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “You” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
250 4:13 i3mi a grove 0 a place where many trees grow together
251 4:13 eji6 with choice fruits 0 Alternate translation: “with the best kinds of fruits”
252 4:13 q938 nard plants 0 plants that give oil that people used to make their skin soft and to have a pleasant odor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
253 4:13 dju5 henna 0 small desert trees that people used as a perfume. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:14](../01/12.md).
254 4:14 dxj9 saffron 0 a spice that comes from the dried parts from the yellow thread in the center of a certain flower
255 4:14 ujr7 calamus 0 a reed with a pleasant smell that people used to make anointing oil.
256 4:14 w1cm cinnamon 0 a spice made from the bark of a tree that people used for cooking
257 4:14 kx8c myrrh 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
258 4:14 bm3m aloes 0 a type of large plant that had a very sweet smell
259 4:14 p646 all the finest spices 0 Alternate translation: “all the best spices”
260 4:15 z2an rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor You are a garden spring 0 “You are a spring in a garden.” A garden spring gives sweet, clean water that people enjoy drinking. The man enjoys being close to the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
261 4:15 t9ch fresh water 0 water that is good to drink
262 4:15 zl7c streams flowing down from Lebanon 0 Because Lebanon had mountains covered with trees, the streams from Lebanon were clean and cool.
263 4:16 jv5g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification Awake, north wind; come, south wind; blow 0 The woman speaks to the north wind and the south wind as though they were people. Alternate translation: “I wish the north wind and south wind would come and blow” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
264 4:16 x71g Awake, north wind 0 Alternate translation: “North wind, start blowing”
265 4:16 l273 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor blow on my garden 0 The garden is a metaphor for her body, which she has covered with sweet-smelling oils ([Song of Songs 4:14](./12.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
266 4:16 kdi9 may give off their fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “may send out their good smells”
267 4:16 lqh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor May my beloved & choice fruit 0 The woman is inviting the man to make love to her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
268 4:16 dp46 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
269 4:16 mbn7 choice fruit 0 Alternate translation: “wonderful fruit”
270 5:intro kdw4 0 # Song of Songs 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nVerses 2-7 describe a dream the woman had.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### “My sister, my bride”\nThe woman described is not the sister of her husband. They are not related. Instead, this is a reference to a woman who is a fellow Israelite.
271 5:1 zka3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
272 5:1 m575 I have come 0 It is clearly the woman’s lover who is speaking.
273 5:1 f2qr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor have come into my garden 0 The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
274 5:1 tgd7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
275 5:1 psq4 my bride 0 This Hebrew word can refer to a woman who is married or to one whom a man has arranged to become his son’s wife. If your language has a polite word that a man would use to his wife and that has not been used yet in this book, you could use it here. Otherwise you could use any polite term a man would use with his wife. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/08.md).
276 5:1 lgr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor myrrh & spice & honeycomb & honey & wine & milk 0 These are all metaphors for the man enjoying the woman’s body ([Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md), [Song of Songs 2:4](../02/03.md), [Song of Songs 4:11](../04/10.md), and [Song of Songs 4:14](../04/12.md)). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
277 5:1 sq9d spice 0 plants that have a strong smell or taste
278 5:1 i16q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Eat & drink & be drunk with love 0 Eating and drinking are metaphors for making love. Alternate translation: “Make love … make love … make love until you are fully satisfied” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
279 5:2 a7v6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe fourth part of the book begins here. The young woman uses euphemisms to describe her dream so that it can be interpreted in two different ways: (1) the woman describes a dream about a night when the man came to visit her at her house; and (2) the woman describes a dream about starting to sleep with the man. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
280 5:2 biy3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom but my heart was awake 0 The heart is the center of thought and feeling. Alternate translation: “but I could think clearly” or “but I knew what I was feeling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
281 5:2 tk43 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
282 5:2 qjv8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Open to me 0 This could mean: (1) literal, “Open the door for me,” or (2) metaphorical, “Let me make love to you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
283 5:2 rx38 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom my sister 0 This is an idiom of affection. They are not actually brother and sister. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:9](../04/09.md). Alternate translation: “my dear” or “my darling” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
284 5:2 d52k my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
285 5:2 c27j my dove 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md).
286 5:2 gaj1 undefiled one 0 Alternate translation: “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one”
287 5:2 yh2r dew 0 drops of water or mist that form as the night becomes cool
288 5:2 d3gt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis my hair with the night’s dampness 0 The words “is wet” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “my hair is wet with the night’s dampness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
289 5:3 tr8w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations “I have taken off my robe & dirty?” 0 This is what the woman thought to herself when she heard the man speak. ([Song of Songs 5:2](./02.md)). This could be translated with the woman saying that this is what she was thinking, or the woman could just explain the situation and her thoughts as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I thought to myself, ‘I have taken off my robe … dirty?’” or “I had taken off my robe and I did not want to put it on again. I had washed my feet and I did not want to get them dirty.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
290 5:3 am4r robe 0 thin linen clothing that people wore on their skin
291 5:3 g6z2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion must I put it on again? 0 If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to put it on again.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
292 5:3 r5cm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism I have washed my feet 0 While the word “feet” can be a euphemism for private parts, this probably refers to literal feet. The woman seems more likely to want to make love than to want to refrain from lovemaking because she has just bathed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
293 5:3 h4w3 must I get them dirty? 0 If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to get them dirty.”
294 5:4 w3ff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism My beloved put in his hand through the opening of the door latch 0 Possible interpretations are: (1) literal, the lover reaches into the house through a hole in the door in order to open the door or (2) euphemisic, they have begun to make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
295 5:4 hqn5 My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
296 5:4 nns1 door latch 0 Alternate translation: “door lock”
297 5:5 w3k2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I got up to open the door for my beloved 0 This could mean: (1) literal, the young woman got out of bed in order to let the man into the house, or (2) metaphorical. Alternate translation: “I prepared myself to make love with my beloved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
298 5:5 q3qx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism my hands & my fingers & door handle 0 While these may be euphemisms for the woman’s and man’s bodies, it is best to translate literally. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
299 5:5 ycr1 with moist myrrh 0 Alternate translation: “with liquid myrrh”
300 5:6 b7qk my beloved 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](../01/12.md).
301 5:6 z8na rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My heart sank 0 The heart is a metaphor for the person, and sinking, going down, is a metaphor for becoming weak or sad. Alternate translation: “I was very sad” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
302 5:7 a9yk The watchmen 0 men who have the job of keeping guard of the town at night to keep the people safe. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
303 5:7 rqq4 as they were making their rounds in the city 0 “who were walking around the city on the walls.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 3:3](../03/03.md).
304 5:7 v79f found me 0 found the woman
305 5:7 zhf3 struck me 0 Alternate translation: “beat me” or “hit me”
306 5:7 q2vt wounded me 0 Alternate translation: “injured me”
307 5:7 euu8 the guards on the walls 0 Alternate translation: “the men who guard the walls”
308 5:7 h38e cloak 0 a garment that people wore over the other clothing on their upper body when they went outdoors in public
309 5:8 czu7 I want you to swear 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
310 5:8 j8ub rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
311 5:8 w1ul rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion my beloved—What will you make known to him?—that I am 0 The woman uses a question to introduce what she wants the daughters of Jerusalem to tell her beloved. Alternate translation: “my beloved, this is what I want you to say to him: tell him that” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
312 5:8 v5m3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor sick from love 0 She loves the man so strongly that she feels sick. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
313 5:9 kr5i your beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover”
314 5:9 eap5 most beautiful among women 0 “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
315 5:9 vbc6 Why is your beloved better 0 Alternate translation: “What makes your beloved better”
316 5:9 rfp3 that you ask us to take an oath like this 0 Alternate translation: “and causes you to have us take this oath”
317 5:9 zp43 an oath like this 0 the oath in [Song of Songs 5:8](./08.md)
318 5:10 qb4q My beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “My dear one” or “My lover”
319 5:10 xuy2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit is radiant and ruddy 0 This phrase refers to his complexion. Alternate translation: “has radiant and ruddy skin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
320 5:10 za1u radiant 0 “is completely healthy” or “is pure.” The man has skin that does not have any problems.
321 5:10 rgj8 ruddy 0 a healthy color of the skin that is brownish red
322 5:10 hms2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor outstanding among ten thousand 0 “the best of 10,000.” Alternate translation: “better than anyone else” or “no one else is like him.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
323 5:11 s23z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His head is the purest gold 0 The man’s head is as precious to the woman as the purest gold. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
324 5:11 m1w4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile a raven 0 a bird with very black feathers (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
325 5:12 m6e7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy His eyes are like doves 0 Translate “eyes are like doves” as in [Song of Songs 1:15](../01/15.md). This could mean: (1) the Israelites considered doves to be gentle and soft birds, and the woman considers the man’s eyes beautiful because the way the man looks at her makes her think he is gentle. Alternate translation: “His eyes are gentle like doves” or (2) the woman is speaking of the man’s white eyeballs or the shape of his eyes, the shape of a dove. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
326 5:12 knr8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor doves beside streams of water 0 Birds that the Israelites considered gentle sitting beside a gently flowing stream are a metaphor for a gentle person. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
327 5:12 xp2d streams of water 0 Alternate translation: “gently flowing water”
328 5:12 tr46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor bathed in milk 0 Milk is a metaphor for the whiteness of the doves. Alternate translation: (1) “doves that are white like milk” or (2) milk is a metaphor for the white part of the man’s eyes. Alternate translation: “his pupils are like doves bathing in white milk” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
329 5:12 qe85 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile mounted like jewels 0 His eyes are beautiful. Jewels that a craftsman has carefully put in place are beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
330 5:13 ip4j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile His cheeks & aromatic scents 0 This explains that his cheeks are like beds of spices because they both give off wonderful smells. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
331 5:13 mtt8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor beds of spices 0 gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. Spices give people pleasure. The man’s body gives the woman pleasure. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
332 5:13 mem2 yielding aromatic scents 0 Alternate translation: “that give off wonderful smells.”
333 5:13 a4hu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His lips are lilies 0 The woman probably compares his lips with lilies because they are beautiful and smell wonderful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
334 5:13 t4f1 lilies 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
335 5:13 x8c2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor dripping liquid myrrh 0 “that drip with the best myrrh.” His lips are moist and have a wonderful smell like myrrh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
336 5:14 nl6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His arms are rounded gold set with jewels 0 “His arms are cylinders of gold that have jewels all over them.” The woman uses this image to say that his arms are beautiful and precious. The first readers would have understood this as a metaphor for the male body part ([Song of Songs 5:3](./03.md)), but this would be difficult to bring out in translation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
337 5:14 bg51 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor his abdomen is ivory covered with sapphires 0 “his belly is smooth ivory that has sapphires all over it.” The woman uses this image to say that his belly is beautiful and precious. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
338 5:14 k5ga ivory 0 the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make smooth and shiny pieces of art.
339 5:14 ws92 sapphires 0 valuable stones that are either: (1) blue or (2) clear and either blue or golden
340 5:15 i1xz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor His legs are pillars of marble, set on bases of pure gold 0 Marble and gold are strong and beautiful. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
341 5:15 juu1 marble 0 a very strong stone that has many different colors and that people polish to make very smooth
342 5:15 z75c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile his appearance is like Lebanon 0 “he looks like Lebanon.” Lebanon was a very beautiful area with many mountains and cedar trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
343 5:16 sc8p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy His mouth is most sweet 0 The mouth is a metonym for either: (1) the man’s sweet kisses or (2) the sweet words that he says. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
344 5:16 w3vr he is completely lovely 0 Alternate translation: “every part of him is lovely” or “all of him is lovely”
345 5:16 pi1a This is my beloved, and this is my friend 0 The word “This” refers to the man that the woman has just finished describing. Alternate translation: “That is what the one I love is like, and that is what my friend is like”
346 5:16 zd7b my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
347 5:16 r6zc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
348 6:intro fa9a 0 # Song of Songs 6 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Metaphors\nIn the ancient Near East, it was common to describe a woman using metaphors involving animals. In many cultures today, this can be considered offensive. Different metaphors of beauty are used in different cultures. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
349 6:1 z4sf rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]. The fifth part of the book begins here.
350 6:1 xnv3 In what direction has your beloved gone 0 Alternate translation: “Which way did your beloved go”
351 6:1 wr5y your beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for the other women to refer to him as “your lover.” See how you translated “my beloved” in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “your dear one” or “your lover” or “the man you love”
352 6:1 emy4 most beautiful among women 0 “you who are the most beautiful of all women.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:8](../01/08.md).
353 6:1 ise2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit gone, so that we may seek him with you? 0 The words “tell us” are understood from the context. They can be stated clearly Alternate translation: “gone? Tell us, so that we can look for him with you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
354 6:2 vrq9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My beloved has gone down to his garden 0 The word “garden” is a metaphor for the woman. The man is finally able to fully enjoy the woman as they make love. See the explanation of this metaphor in [Song of Songs 5:1](../05/01.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
355 6:2 v5x3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor beds of spices 0 gardens or parts of gardens where people grow spices. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:13](../05/13.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
356 6:2 w7gn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor to graze in the garden and to gather lilies 0 These words are metaphors for the man enjoying her body. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
357 6:2 st2n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor graze 0 “feeds” or “eats grass.” The woman speaks of the man as if he were “a gazelle or a young stag” ([Song of Songs 2:17](../02/16.md)) that eats plants among the lilies. Grazing is probably a metaphor for lovemaking ([Song of Songs 2:1-2](../02/01.md)). See how you translated “he grazes” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
358 6:2 e94c to gather lilies 0 Alternate translation: “to pick lilies”
359 6:2 gp6q lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
360 6:3 z5rf my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
361 6:3 lr7w I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine 0 See how you translated the similar phrase “My beloved is mine, and I am his” in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
362 6:3 p4l4 he grazes among the lilies with pleasure 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:16](../02/16.md).
363 6:4 q66q General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nHere begins Part Five of the book
364 6:4 xk88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as beautiful as Tirzah, my love, as lovely as Jerusalem 0 These cities were famous for being beautiful and pleasant to be in. The man thinks the woman is beautiful, and he takes pleasure in being with her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
365 6:4 nj8w my love 0 “you whom I love.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:9](../01/09.md).
366 6:4 rjr5 lovely 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:5](../01/05.md).
367 6:4 uwd8 as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners 0 The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the man feel helpless, as if an army were approaching him.
368 6:5 e85g overwhelm me 0 “terrify me.” The eyes of the woman are so beautiful that it makes the man feel weak and afraid because he cannot resist their power.
369 6:5 lbz1 Your hair & from the slopes of Gilead 0 Translate “Your hair … from Mount Gilead” as in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
370 6:6 lxi1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your teeth are like a flock of ewes 0 After sheep have their wool cut off, they are washed and their skin looks very white. The woman’s teeth are white. See how “Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes” is translated in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
371 6:6 j7se rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit coming up from the washing place 0 The ewes are coming up out of the water. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). Alternate translation: “that are coming up out of the water after people have washed them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
372 6:6 x7hr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Each one has a twin 0 Sheep usually give birth to two lambs at one time. These twin lamb usually look like one another. Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
373 6:6 s4qj none among them is bereaved 0 Each of the woman’s teeth has a matching tooth on the other side of her mouth. She has not lost any of her teeth. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
374 6:6 j4u3 bereaved 0 lost a loved one who has died. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:2](../04/02.md).
375 6:7 zid1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile are like pomegranate halves 0 Pomegranates are smooth, round, and rich red. The man thinks the woman’s cheeks are beautiful and show that she is healthy. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:3](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “are red and round like two halves of a pomegranate” or “are red and full and healthy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
376 6:7 z88b behind your veil 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:1](../04/01.md).
377 6:8 g963 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers There are sixty queens, eighty concubines & young women without number 0 These numbers are to be large, then larger, and then beyond counting. Alternate translation: “There are 60 queens, 80 concubines … more young women than anyone could count” or “There are many queens, even more concubines, and more young women than anyone could count” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
378 6:9 a2hh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My dove 0 The Israelites considered doves beautiful birds with pleasant voices. The man thinks the woman’s face and voice are beautiful. If calling a woman a “dove” would be offensive, you could leave out the metaphor. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:14](../02/14.md). Alternate translation: “You beautiful woman” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
379 6:9 dk9e my undefiled 0 “my perfect one” or “my faithful one” or “my innocent one.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 5:2](../05/02.md).
380 6:9 m138 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole the only daughter of her mother 0 This is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “her mother’s special daughter” or “completely different from her mother’s other daughters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
381 6:9 tej6 the woman who bore her 0 “the woman who gave birth to her.” This phrase refers to her mother.
382 6:9 wmx6 young women & queens & concubines 0 the women spoken of in [Song of Songs 6:8](./08.md).
383 6:9 al8y called her blessed 0 Alternate translation: “said that things had gone especially well for her”
384 6:10 cw4k General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe ULT understands this to be what the queens and the concubines said about the woman. However, some versions understand these to be the words of the man.
385 6:10 g6e9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is this who appears like the dawn & banners? 0 They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. Alternate translation: “This is an amazing woman! She comes into view like the dawn … banners!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
386 6:10 y3dp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile who appears like the dawn 0 The dawn is beautiful. The woman is beautiful. Alternate translation: “who comes into view like the dawn” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
387 6:10 vb8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as awe-inspiring as an army with its banners 0 The beauty of the woman is so powerful that it makes the other women feel helpless, as if an army were approaching them. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 6:4](./04.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
388 6:11 x84j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe man finishes speaking to himself. Looking to see if plants had matured is probably a metaphor for enjoying the sight of the woman’s body. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
389 6:11 xmc2 grove 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:13](../04/12.md).
390 6:11 vs9r young growth 0 Alternate translation: “young plants” or “new shoots”
391 6:11 qw4q had budded 0 “had grown their buds.” Buds are the small round parts of plants which open up into flowers.
392 6:11 w8xh were in bloom 0 Alternate translation: “were opening their flowers”
393 6:12 lt9y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile I was so happy that I felt I was riding in the chariot of a prince 0 The man uses this image to express how happy he is. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
394 6:13 u681 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThis is 7:1, the first verse of chapter seven, in some versions. The ULT understands this to be the friends and the woman talking to each other. Some versions understand this to be the man speaking to the woman.
395 6:13 sm5j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns Turn back & gaze on you 0 Possible meanings here are: (1) the friends are speaking to the woman or (2) the man is referring to himself in plural. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
396 6:13 x9hk Turn back, turn back 0 “Come back, come back.” This is repeated for emphasis.
397 6:13 za54 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns we may gaze 0 Some versions understand the plural to refer to the man speaking of himself. Alternate translation: “I may gaze” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
398 6:13 c258 gaze 0 look intently for a long time
399 6:13 e2bm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns Why do you gaze on the perfect woman & armies 0 Possible meanings here are: (1) the woman refers to herself as another person and is speaking to the friends or (2) the woman is speaking to the man as if he were many men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
400 6:13 iqb9 as if on the dance between two armies 0 Alternate translation: “as if she were dancing between two armies”
401 7:intro hqv7 0 # Song of Songs 7 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Beauty\nThe woman is described as the epitome of beauty in ancient Israel. Not all cultures share the same the same standards of beauty.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Similes\nThere are many similes in this chapter. Their purpose is to describe the beauty of the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
402 7:1 z7jk General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThis is 7:2, the second verse of chapter seven, in some versions.
403 7:1 v8jn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit How beautiful your feet appear in your sandals 0 It may be that the woman is dancing ([Song of Songs 6:13](../06/13.md)). Alternate translation: “Your feet are so very beautiful in your sandals as you dance” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
404 7:1 k8va prince’s daughter 0 Another possible interpretation is “you who have a noble character.”
405 7:1 e9bd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile The curves of your thighs are like jewels 0 The shape of the woman’s thighs remind the speaker of a beautiful precious stone that a skilled workman has carved. Alternate translation: “The curves of your thighs are beautiful like the beautiful curves of jewel that a skilled craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
406 7:1 xs8e your thighs 0 The word “thighs” refers to the hips of a woman and the part of her legs that is above her knee.
407 7:1 fc12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche the work of the hands of a master craftsman 0 The hands are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “the work of a master craftsman” or “something that a master craftsman has made” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
408 7:2 u88e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your navel is like a round bowl 0 A bowl is round. The woman’s navel is round. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
409 7:2 dp5a navel 0 the spot on the stomach left from the cord that attaches a baby to its mother
410 7:2 n59p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor may it never lack mixed wine 0 People used large bowls to mix wine with water or spices at feasts. Drinking wine is a metaphor for enjoying beauty. The litotes can be translated as a positive. Alternate translation: “may it always contain mixed wine” or “may I always enjoy its beauty” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
411 7:2 q8fy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your belly is like a mound of wheat encircled with lilies 0 The Israelites thought mounds of wheat and lilies were pleasant to look at. Much wheat was a sign that there would be much food to eat. They threshed wheat in high, dry places, and lilies grow in low, wet places, so this simile combines beautiful sights that people would not usually see at the same time. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
412 7:2 w6nh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your belly is like a mound of wheat 0 People thought that the color of wheat was the most beautiful color of skin and that round piles of wheat were beautiful. Alternate translation: “Your belly has a beautiful color and is round like a pile of wheat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
413 7:2 ah1p a mound of wheat 0 This is a pile of the grains of wheat after people remove the parts of it that they do not use.
414 7:2 cz8d encircled with lilies 0 Alternate translation: “with lilies all around it”
415 7:2 ue5r lilies 0 sweet-smelling flowers that grow in places where there is much water. Translate as the plural of “lily” in [Song of Songs 2:1](../02/01.md).
416 7:3 jw6n two breasts 0 If the word “two” seems unnecessary and so out of place, you could omit it. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
417 7:3 ugf3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile like two fawns, twins of a gazelle 0 The man implies that the woman’s breasts are matching, soft, and perhaps small. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
418 7:3 jh3u twins 0 the babies of a mother who gave birth to two babies at one time. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 4:5](../04/04.md).
419 7:3 wr8t gazelle 0 an animal that looks like a deer and moves quickly. Translate as the singular of “gazelles” as in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
420 7:4 uv17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your neck is like a tower of ivory 0 A tower is long and straight. Ivory is white. The woman’s neck is long and straight, and her skin is light in color. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
421 7:4 b1sy a tower of ivory 0 Alternate translation: “a tower that people have decorated with ivory”
422 7:4 xgt7 ivory 0 the white tusk or tooth of an animal that is similar to bone. People use ivory to make art and to make things look beautiful.
423 7:4 h4ih rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor your eyes are the pools in Heshbon 0 The woman’s eyes are spoken of as if they are clear pools of water. Pools of water are clear and sparkle in the sunlight and so are pleasant to look at. The woman’s eyes are clear and sparkle and so are pleasant to look at. This can be stated as a simile. Alternate translation: “your eyes are as clear as the pools in Heshbon” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
424 7:4 md6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Heshbon 0 This is the name of a city east of the Jordan River (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
425 7:4 r1vf rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Bath Rabbim 0 This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
426 7:4 a4vg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile nose is like the tower in Lebanon 0 A tower is tall and straight, and her nose is tall and straight. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
427 7:4 s23k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy that looks toward Damascus 0 The tower looking is a metonym for people on the tower looking. Alternate translation: “that allows people to look toward Damascus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
428 7:5 jn22 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your head is on you like Carmel 0 Mount Carmel is higher than everything else around it. The man wants to look at the woman’s head more than at anything else. Alternate translation: “Your head is on you like a crown, higher than anything else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
429 7:5 sr83 dark purple 0 Other possible translations are: (1) “dark black” or (2) “dark red.”
430 7:5 hkk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor The king is held captive by its tresses 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Your hair that hangs down is so beautiful that the king is not able to stop admiring it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
431 7:5 l5e5 tresses 0 the clusters of hair that hang down from a woman’s head
432 7:6 hqx3 my love, with delights 0 Alternate translation: “my love. You delight me”
433 7:7 j31f General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe man describes what he would like to do with the woman .
434 7:7 jy1s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile Your height is like that of a date palm tree 0 “You stand up like a date palm tree.” Date palm trees are tall and straight, and their branches are only at the top, with the fruit under the branches. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
435 7:7 f6me date palm tree 0 a tall, straight tree that produces a sweet, brown, and sticky fruit that grows in groups
436 7:7 jr1v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile your breasts like clusters of fruit 0 The dates on a palm tree grow soft and round in large bunches that hang from the tree just below the branches, which are all at the top. The woman’s breasts are soft and round and are just lower than her arms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
437 7:8 p7ge I said 0 “I thought” or “I said to myself.” The man said this silently.
438 7:8 r1b3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I want to climb & its branches 0 The man wants to embrace the woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
439 7:8 w5g3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile May your breasts be like clusters of grapes 0 The man wants to touch her breasts. Clusters of grapes are round and soft. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
440 7:8 zfb8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile may the fragrance of your nose be like apricots 0 The word “nose” is a metonym for the breath coming out of the nose. Alternate translation: “may the breath coming from your nose smell sweet like apricots” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
441 7:8 f9is apricots 0 sweet yellow fruit
442 7:9 yrg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy May your palate be like the best wine 0 The palate is a metonym for the lips. Wine tastes good. The man wants to kiss the woman’s lips. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
443 7:9 rq12 flowing smoothly for my beloved 0 “that flows smoothly for the one I love.” The man enjoys the smooth kisses of the woman.
444 7:9 ed64 gliding over the lips of those who sleep 0 Alternate translation: “that flows over our lips as we sleep”
445 7:10 k7zq I am my beloved’s 0 See how you translated a similar phrase in [Song of Songs 6:3](../06/01.md).
446 7:10 j44v my beloved’s 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one’s” or “my lover’s”
447 7:10 a143 he desires me 0 Alternate translation: “he wants to make love to me” or “he wants me”
448 7:11 bhr6 spend the night in the villages 0 Though the words here translated “spends the night” and “villages” appear together in [Song of Songs 1:13-14](../01/12.md) as “spends the night” and “henna flowers,” and the context both here and there is lovemaking, the ULT chooses this reading because the immediate metaphor is of the man and woman sleeping in the village, rising in the morning, and going out into the vineyards. The word for “henna plants” and the word for “villages” sound exactly the same.
449 7:12 iii6 rise early 0 Alternate translation: “get up early” or “wake up early”
450 7:12 cs6n have budded 0 Alternate translation: “have begun to bloom”
451 7:12 r952 blossoms 0 flowers when they are open
452 7:12 ukd9 are in flower 0 Alternate translation: “have flowers open on the plant”
453 7:12 q3a4 I will give you my love 0 Alternate translation: “I will make love with you”
454 7:13 v61b rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown mandrakes 0 This is the name of plants that give off a strong but pleasant scent. The scent is slightly intoxicating and stimulating, which increases the desire to make love. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
455 7:13 alp4 give off their fragrance 0 Alternate translation: “produce their scent” or “smell very nice”
456 7:13 xbk7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit at the door 0 The doors belong to their house. Alternate translation: “above the entrances of our house” or “by the doors of our house” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
457 7:13 c2ah are all sorts of choice fruits, new and old 0 Alternate translation: “is every kind of the best fruit, both old fruit and new fruit”
458 7:13 jsb8 stored up for you 0 Alternate translation: “saved so I can give to you”
459 7:13 h8r2 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
460 8:intro d35n 0 # Song of Songs 8 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Kisses\nThe kisses in this chapter are a type of kiss that was only done between a husband a wife. It is an intimate kiss. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])\n\n### Passion\nThe chapter describes the passion that can exist between a husband a wife. This is the feeling of strong or uncontrollable desire for another person.
461 8:1 me7m rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nSee: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]]
462 8:1 dp21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile you were like my brother 0 A woman could show affection for her brother in public. This woman wanted to be able to show affection for the man in public. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
463 8:1 v5fh you outside 0 Alternate translation: “you in public”
464 8:1 zyd6 I could kiss you 0 A woman would probably kiss her brother on his cheek order to greet him.
465 8:1 ec82 would despise me 0 Alternate translation: “would think that I am a bad person”
466 8:2 i6ch rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit she who taught me 0 taught her how to make love (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
467 8:2 s68s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I would give you spiced wine to drink and some of the juice of my pomegranates 0 The woman uses these images to say that she will give herself to the man and make love with him. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
468 8:2 au41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor spiced wine 0 “wine with spices” or “wine that has spices in it.” This represents the intoxicating power of lovemaking. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
469 8:3 s92v His left hand & embraces me 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:6](../02/05.md).
470 8:3 e5cp left hand & right hand 0 Alternate translation: “left arm … right arm”
471 8:3 v65k embraces me 0 Alternate translation: “holds me”
472 8:4 z8a4 I want you to swear 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md)
473 8:4 rk33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe daughters of Jerusalem 0 “young women of Jerusalem.” These young women could not hear her and were not present, but the woman speaks as if they were present and could hear her. See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
474 8:4 qg8i that you will & until it pleases 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:7](../02/07.md).
475 8:5 a5w5 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe fifth part of the book begins here.
476 8:5 xxv3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion Who is this who is coming up 0 They are using this question to say that they think the young woman is amazing. A similar phrase was translated in [Song of Songs 6:10](../06/10.md). Alternate translation: “Look at this amazing woman as she comes up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
477 8:5 p4rr I awakened you 0 Alternate translation: “I woke you up” or “I aroused you”
478 8:5 zfa2 the apricot tree 0 a tree that produces a small yellow fruit that is very sweet. If your readers will not know what this is, you could use the word for another fruit tree or the general word “fruit tree.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:3](../02/03.md).
479 8:5 g9tp there 0 under the apricot tree
480 8:5 d4ub she delivered you 0 Alternate translation: “she bore you”
481 8:6 jr5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Set me as a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm 0 This could mean: (1) because seals were very important, people always kept them around their neck or on their hand. The woman wants to be with the man constantly like a seal, or (2) a seal shows who owns the thing that has the seal on it, and the woman wants herself as the seal on the man’s heart and arm to show that all of his thoughts, emotions, and actions belong to her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
482 8:6 yzj4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile for love is as strong as death 0 Death is very strong because it overcomes even the most powerful people of the world. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
483 8:6 tci8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile as unrelenting as Sheol 0 “as tough as Sheol.” Sheol never allows people to come back to life after they have already died. Love is as persistent as Sheol because it never changes. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
484 8:6 fvz9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor its flames burst out & any other fire 0 Love is very powerful like fire. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
485 8:6 tw71 burst out 0 Alternate translation: “burn suddenly”
486 8:7 baf6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Surging waters cannot quench love 0 Love is so strong that it is like a fire that is so hot that it cannot be put out even with an ocean full of water. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
487 8:7 j6mc Surging waters 0 Alternate translation: “Oceans of water” or “Huge amounts of water”
488 8:7 dd1i cannot quench 0 Alternate translation: “cannot extinguish” or “cannot put out”
489 8:7 e1ej rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor nor can floods sweep it away 0 Love never changes and always stays the same so it is like something that not even a powerful flood can move. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
490 8:7 dju9 floods 0 In Israel, water from the rain flows into deep and narrow valleys. This creates a flood of water so powerful that it can move huge boulders and trees.
491 8:7 kqk9 sweep it away 0 Alternate translation: “carry it away” or “wash it away”
492 8:7 jwh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo If a man gave & the offer would utterly be despised 0 This is something that could possibly happen. Alternate translation: “Even if a man … he would be utterly despised” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
493 8:7 g5ja gave 0 offered to give
494 8:7 l4u3 all the possessions in his house 0 Alternate translation: “everything he owns”
495 8:7 n3pn for love 0 Alternate translation: “in order to get love” or “in order to buy love”
496 8:7 nt2s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive the offer would utterly be despised 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people would completely despise him” or “people would harshly ridicule him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
497 8:8 au5a little sister 0 Alternate translation: “young sister”
498 8:8 t852 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion What can we do & in marriage? 0 The speaker uses this question to introduce what he wants to say. Alternate translation: “This is what we will do … in marriage.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
499 8:8 g5fp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom she will be promised in marriage 0 This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a man comes and wants to marry her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
500 8:9 mpf5 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nThe young woman’s brothers continue to speak among themselves.
501 8:9 x3j1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor If she is a wall & If she is a door 0 The little sister ([Song of Songs 8:8](./08.md)) has very small breasts that either have not grown or are very small. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
502 8:9 am5u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor we will build on her a tower of silver & we will adorn her with boards of cedar 0 The brothers decide to decorate the little sister with silver and cedar, symbols of riches, so that she will be more likely to attract a good husband. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
503 8:9 cnw3 will adorn her 0 Alternate translation: “will decorate her”
504 8:10 n2vy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor I was a wall 0 The wall is a metaphor for a woman with small breasts. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
505 8:10 mc78 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile my breasts are now like fortress towers 0 Fortress towers are tall. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
506 8:10 rll2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy I am in his eyes as one 0 Here eyes are a metonym for judgment or value. Alternate translation: “I am in his judgment as one” or “he thinks of me as one” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
507 8:10 b5uu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit brings peace 0 You may need to make explicit to whom the woman brings peace. Alternate translation: “brings him peace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
508 8:10 hi47 peace 0 Alternate translation: “well-being”
509 8:11 tt74 General Information: 0 # General Information:\n\nPossible interpretations: (1) The woman contrasts the way she wants to give herself to the man, who will give her his love, to the way Solomon leases out his vineyard to those who will give him money. (2) The man contrasts the woman, whom he will not give to another man, to Solomon’s vineyard, which he gave to other men.
510 8:11 x2c3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Baal Hamon 0 This is the name of a town in the northern part of Israel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
511 8:11 mz3u gave the vineyard 0 leased, agreed to let other people pay him so they could grow grapes in the vineyard
512 8:11 b1b3 to those who would maintain it 0 Alternate translation: “to people who would take care of it”
513 8:11 h77m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis Each one was to bring a thousand shekels of silver for its fruit 0 It may be helpful to state that this payment was for the fruit of the vineyard. Alternate translation: “Each man was supposed to give Solomon a thousand shekels as payment for the fruit of the vineyard” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
514 8:11 t2dp rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney to bring a thousand shekels of silver 0 “to bring 1,000 shekels of silver.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
515 8:11 e3jp shekels 0 Alternate translation: “coins”
516 8:11 mm2j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe Solomon 0 Some versions understand the woman to be speaking directly to Solomon. Others understand her to be speaking in an apostrophe to her friends, to the man, or to herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
517 8:12 za66 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor My vineyard, my very own 0 The woman refers to herself as a vineyard, as in [Song of Songs 1:6](../01/05.md). Here she emphasizes that she and no one else will decide what she dies with the “vineyard.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
518 8:12 gc75 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom is before me 0 This is an idiom that means the a person has the right to do what they want with something. Alternate translation: “is at my disposal” or “is mine to do with as I desire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
519 8:12 tl1c the thousand shekels are for you, Solomon 0 The woman knows that Solomon has leased out the vineyard so he can get money, but she does not want money.
520 8:12 t7u1 the two hundred shekels 0 The speaker has not mentioned these before, but the hearer would understand that she is speaking of the money that those who worked the vineyard would have left for their own after they paid Solomon.
521 8:13 dp6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you You who live 0 The man is speaking to the woman, so “you” and “live” are feminine singular. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
522 8:13 zm5h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy listening for your voice 0 The voice is a metonym for what the person says. If your language has a word for thinking only of what one is listening for, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “waiting to hear you start speaking” or “waiting to hear what you have to say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
523 8:13 ew6z let me hear it 0 Alternate translation: “let me hear your voice.”
524 8:14 vrp7 my beloved 0 This phrase refers to the man whom the woman loves. In some languages it may be more natural for her to refer to him as “my lover.” See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 1:13](./12.md). Alternate translation: “my dear one” or “my lover”
525 8:14 zh44 like a gazelle or a young stag 0 See how you translated this in [Song of Songs 2:9](../02/08.md).
526 8:14 yhn7 gazelle 0 a type of slender deer-like animal with long curved horns
527 8:14 gp9l stag 0 an adult male deer
528 8:14 mqx9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor the mountains of spices 0 “the mountains that have spices all over them.” The woman uses this metaphor to invite the man to make love to her. See how the man uses the metaphor of a mountain of myrrh and a hill of frankincense in [Song of Songs 4:6](../04/06.md). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])