Few biblical books capture the senses as vividly as the Song of Solomon, also known as the Song of Songs. Overflowing with imagery of gardens, spices, and blossoms, it is a celebration of love in its most poetic form — love between two people, and, in a deeper sense, the love between God and His people.

A Song Above All Songs

The Hebrew title Shir HaShirim (שִׁיר הַשִּׁירִים) means “The Song of Songs” - a phrase signifying it is the greatest of all songs. Traditionally attributed to King Solomon, the book is a lyrical dialogue between lovers, weaving together devotion, longing, and joy.

More than just romantic poetry, the Song has been read for centuries as a spiritual allegory. In Jewish tradition, it reflects the covenant between God and Israel; in Christian thought, it often symbolizes Christ’s love for the Church.

The Language of Fragrance

One of the Song’s most striking features is its sensory imagery — especially its references to fragrance. The text mentions spikenard, myrrh, frankincense, henna, pomegranate, and the rose of Sharon, each carrying rich layers of symbolism.

• Spikenard is described as a precious perfume, a symbol of devotion and sacrifice.

“While the king was at his table, my spikenard sent forth its fragrance” (Song of Solomon 1:12).

• Myrrh and frankincense evoke the sacred, recalling the incense offerings in the Temple.

“Who is this coming up from the wilderness like a column of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense?” (3:6)

• Pomegranate imagery suggests beauty, abundance, and the sweetness of love.

“Your temples are like a slice of pomegranate behind your veil” (4:3)

• The rose of Sharon and lily of the valleys speak of purity and delight.

“I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys” (2:1)

• Henna - a picture of beauty, refreshment, and joy.

“My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blossoms from the vineyards of En Gedi” (1:14).

Even today, these scents are used in anointing oils and Holy Land fragrances, making the Song of Solomon’s imagery tangible for modern faith practice.

Love That Cannot Be Quenched

Perhaps the most famous line comes near the end:

“Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away.” (Song of Solomon 8:7)

In a world where commitments can feel fragile, the Song’s vision of steadfast love - enduring through trials and time - continues to inspire. The use of oils and spices in the text reminds us that love, like fragrance, is something to be cultivated and treasured.

From Ancient Gardens to Your Hands

The Song of Solomon paints love as something that engages all the senses. Its gardens of balsam, myrrh, and frankincense feel almost within reach. By incorporating these biblical scents into daily worship believers can create a physical reminder of this poetic legacy.

Such practices are not mere nostalgia. They are a way of making the sacred tangible, connecting modern devotion to the deep roots of biblical tradition.

An Enduring Invitation

The Song of Solomon is more than ancient poetry - it is a living invitation to savor love, faith, and beauty in their purest forms. Just as its verses weave together fragrance, imagery, and devotion, we too can weave these elements into our own lives. Whether through meditating on its words, surrounding ourselves with the biblical scents it celebrates, or cherishing the bonds we hold dear, this sacred song calls us to live with intention and tenderness. And in doing so, we carry forward its timeless refrain - that true love, like a treasured perfume, lingers long after it is given.