Song of Solomon 2:1

Modern

I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley.

Traditional

I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys.

Literal

I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.

Latin

Ego flos campi, et lilium convallium.

Hebrew

English

I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley.

a lily of the valley: The Hebrew text shows the woman's modesty and humility. She sees herself as just one flower among many in Sharon and the wide valleys of Israel.
The man agrees with her comparison to a lily but says her beauty is rare; she is a lily among thistles.
my darling (literally my companion): They are in love and also friends.

In this short poem, the man and woman exchange compliments. They use flower and tree metaphors to describe their loving relationship. The man is the protector and provider,
The poem ends (Song of Solomon 2:6) with the man and woman in an intimate embrace.

The couple lovingly describe each other. They admire her unique beauty and appreciate his strong protection and support.

Theme notes and profiles

Isaiah 57:15
For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in a high and holy place, and with the oppressed and humble in spirit, to restore the spirit of the lowly and revive the heart of the contrite.
Hosea 14:5
I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily and take root like the cedars of Lebanon.
Isaiah 35:1–2
The wilderness and the dry land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a rose.
Song of Solomon 5:13
His cheeks are like beds of spice, towers of perfume. His lips are like lilies, dripping with flowing myrrh.
Song of Solomon 6:3
I belong to my beloved and he belongs to me; he pastures his flock among the lilies.
Song of Solomon 2:16
My beloved is mine and I am his; he pastures his flock among the lilies.
Psalm 85:11
Faithfulness sprouts from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.

Sharon: Coastal plain known for its beauty and fertility