Song of solomon 4:2 - Your teeth are like a newly shorn flock, which have come up from the washing, where every one of them has twins. None is bereaved among them.

Generated Verse: Song of solomon 4:2

What does "Song of solomon 4:2" mean?


This verse from Song of Solomon 4:2 is a part of a highly figurative and sensual description of the woman. Understanding it requires considering the cultural context and the use of metaphor in ancient Hebrew poetry. Here's a breakdown:

"Your teeth are like a newly shorn flock...": The teeth are being compared to a flock of sheep. This isn't necessarily about the material of the teeth, but rather their appearance:
Flock: Implies a large number, suggesting a full set of teeth.
Newly Shorn: The teeth are clean, white, and uniform in length, like sheep that have just had their wool cut.
Coming Up From the Washing: Further emphasizes cleanliness and purity. They're bright and sparkling, freshly cleaned.

"...where every one of them has twins.": This is the most puzzling part. The "twins" metaphor has a few possible interpretations:
Evenness and Symmetry: It could suggest that the teeth are perfectly aligned and symmetrical, matching each other in shape and size.
Whiteness and Shine: Pairs of gleaming white teeth are like little twins shining together.
Strength and Completeness: Having twins often implies fertility and completeness. In this context, it might suggest that the teeth are strong and complete, not missing or broken.

"None is bereaved among them.": This reinforces the idea of completeness and wholeness. None of the "sheep" (teeth) are missing; there are no gaps or spaces in the smile.

Overall Meaning:

The verse is a compliment, praising the woman's beautiful teeth. It's a highly stylized and metaphorical compliment, focusing on:

Whiteness and Cleanliness: "Washed" and "newly shorn" emphasize the purity and brightness of her teeth.
Completeness and Fullness: "Flock," "twins," and "none is bereaved" all suggest a full set of healthy teeth, without gaps or missing teeth.
Symmetry and Order: "Twins" also suggests that the teeth are well-aligned and symmetrical.

Key takeaway:

The verse is not meant to be taken literally. It's a poetic expression of admiration for the woman's beautiful and healthy teeth, using imagery drawn from the pastoral lifestyle of the time.

It's also important to remember that standards of beauty vary over time and cultures. What might be considered a beautiful image in ancient Israel might not have the same impact today.

What categories does "Song of solomon 4:2" have?