Song of solomon 2:5 - Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples; For I am faint with love.

Generated Verse: Song of solomon 2:5

What does "Song of solomon 2:5" mean?


This verse from the Song of Solomon (Song of Songs) 2:5 is a beautiful and intensely passionate expression of love and longing. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"Strengthen me with raisins..."

Raisins were considered a source of energy and nourishment. The speaker is feeling weak, presumably from the overwhelming feeling of love. She's asking for something to give her strength, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. It is important to note that raisins and figs were considered aphrodisiacs in the ancient world.

"...refresh me with apples..."

Apples, similar to raisins, are seen as rejuvenating. Some scholars believe the reference to "apples" suggests fruitfulness and fertility, which might allude to the consummation of their love. More generally, it's a plea for something to revive her spirit and make her feel renewed.

"...For I am faint with love."

This is the core of the verse. "Faint with love" suggests a deep, overwhelming passion. The speaker is so consumed by her love that it's almost debilitating. The feeling is so strong that it leaves her feeling weak and breathless. It's a hyperbolic expression of longing and desire.

In Essence:

The verse is a plea from a lover who is deeply and intensely in love. She feels overwhelmed and weakened by the intensity of her emotions. She asks for simple, natural things - raisins and apples - to give her the strength and refreshment she needs to cope with the overpowering feeling of love.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

Literal vs. Figurative: While some interpretations focus on the literal meaning of food providing energy, most consider this verse to be highly symbolic.
Desire and Longing: The verse encapsulates the pain and sweetness of longing for a beloved.
Vulnerability: The speaker is expressing a deep vulnerability, admitting her weakness in the face of such strong emotion.
The Power of Love: The verse emphasizes the immense power of love to affect one's physical and emotional state.

In the context of the Song of Solomon, this verse contributes to the overall theme of passionate, romantic love between a man and a woman. It highlights the intensity and all-consuming nature of that love.

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