King James Version
What Does Song of Solomon 6:8 Mean?
“There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.”
Context
6
Thy teeth are as a flock of sheep which go up from the washing, whereof every one beareth twins, and there is not one barren among them.
7
As a piece of a pomegranate are thy temples within thy locks.
8
There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.
9
My dove, my undefiled is but one; she is the only one of her mother, she is the choice one of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea, the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.
10
Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **There are threescore queens.**—Presumably a description of Solomon’s harem (from comp. with Song of Solomon 8:11-12), though the numbers are far more sober than in 1Kings 11:3. Probably the latter marks a later form of the traditions of the grand scale on which everything at the court of the monarch was conducted, and this, though a poetic, is a truer version of the story of his loves. The conjunction of *alamôth *with concubines, *pilageshîm *(comp. παλλακή, *pellex*)*, *decides for translating it *puellœ *rather than *virgines.*
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 6:8 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 6:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge