Song of Solomon 4:10 Meaning and Explanation
“How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The beloved's love and presence surpass all earthly delights and pleasures.
The Context of Song of Solomon 4:10
The lover compares his beloved's love to the finest earthly delights, finding love superior.
What Does Song of Solomon 4:10 Mean?
Wine and spices were luxuries and sources of joy in the ancient world. By claiming that his beloved's love exceeds these precious substances, the speaker elevates relationship above material pleasure. The comparison is not hyperbole but a statement of values—what truly satisfies cannot be purchased or hoarded.
The sensory focus—taste of wine, scent of spices and ointments—grounds the claim in physical experience while transcending it. Love is experienced through senses but satisfies more deeply than sensory pleasure alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Song of Solomon 4:10
What does Song of Solomon 4:10 mean?
The beloved's love and presence surpass all earthly delights and pleasures.
What is the context of Song of Solomon 4:10?
The lover compares his beloved's love to the finest earthly delights, finding love superior.