King James Version
What Does Song of Solomon 5:3 Mean?
“I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them?”
Context
1
I am come into my garden, my sister, my spouse: I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drunk my wine with my milk: eat, O friends; drink, yea, drink abundantly, O beloved. yea: or, and be drunken with loves
2
I sleep, but my heart waketh: it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night.
3
I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them?
4
My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my bowels were moved for him. for him: or, (as some read) in me
5
I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands dropped with myrrh, and my fingers with sweet smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock. sweet: Heb. passing, or, running about
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Coat.**—Heb. *cutoneth=cetoneth;* Gr. χίτων, tunic.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Song of Solomon. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Song of Solomon 5:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Song of Solomon 5:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge