Behold, it is the litter of Solomon! Around it are sixty mighty men, some of the mighty men of Israel,
English Standard Version (ESV)
All verses
Song of Solomon 3:7
What does Song of Solomon 3:7 mean?
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
Song of Solomon 3:7
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
What's striking here is not just Solomon's impressive transport, but the specific detail of sixty guards – a number often associated with military strength and formidable protection. This isn't just showing off; it points to the immense value and security placed on the one traveling in that litter.
Behold, it is the litter of Solomon! Around it are sixty mighty men, some of the mighty men of Israel,
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse bursts forth from the beloved's yearning and pursuit of her lover. Just after describing a sleepless night spent searching for him, she exclaims at the sight of a magnificent procession. This grand entrance, accompanied by an armed escort, signals the imminent arrival of her king, Solomon, who will finally reunite with her in a display of royal splendor and security.
Imagine seeing a royal procession unlike any other. What does this image of Solomon's litter reveal about his status and the cultural context?
This verse paints a vivid picture of King Solomon's immense wealth and power.
A Symbol of Royalty
The 'litter' wasn't just a simple conveyance; it was a symbol of the highest status, akin to a king's throne carried in procession. It signifies Solomon's unique position as a ruler blessed by God with unparalleled riches and wisdom. This wasn't mere ostentation; it was a public display of the divine favor and the flourishing kingdom he presided over.
The Guard of Honor
The 'sixty mighty men' surrounding the litter underscore the importance and security of the person within. These weren't just ordinary guards; they were 'some of the mighty men of Israel,' suggesting the elite of his military force. This detail highlights not only Solomon's personal safety but also the strength and order of his kingdom, a testament to the peace and prosperity he brought.
Why include details about Solomon's guards in a love poem? What deeper meaning does this scene hold?
While Song of Solomon is often read as an allegory or a celebration of marital love, verses like this can also be understood on a literal level, pointing to the blessings of God on His people.
A Reflection of God's Blessing
The prosperity and security described here are not solely the result of human effort but are presented as gifts from God. Solomon's reign was a golden age for Israel, marked by wisdom, wealth, and peace. This scene of royal splendor serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in establishing and blessing His chosen king and kingdom.
Ask a follow-up
Contrast and Anticipation
This powerful imagery of protection and prestige might also subtly set a stage. For those familiar with the broader biblical narrative, it could serve as a reminder of the ideal king and kingdom that God intended, perhaps even pointing forward to a greater King and Kingdom yet to come.
Understand the original words
mittah · Hebrew Noun
A portable bed or couch, often enclosed or covered, used for carrying royalty or dignitaries. In a metaphorical sense, it signifies royal honor, state, and the presence of the sovereign.
gibbor · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
A term denoting power, strength, or valor, frequently used for soldiers or champions. It implies individuals endowed with superior strength, courage, or spiritual fortitude.
The description of Solomon's litter, guarded by sixty mighty men, evokes the immense wealth, power, and security associated with his reign, painting a picture of royal splendor that likely served as a backdrop for the poem's expressions of love and desire.
c. 970 BC
Solomon's Reign Begins
Solomon ascends to the throne of Israel, inheriting a prosperous kingdom from his father, David. His reign is marked by wisdom, wealth, and significant building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem.
c. 960 BC
Construction of the First Temple
Solomon undertakes the ambitious project of building the Temple in Jerusalem, a monumental undertaking that solidifies Jerusalem as the religious and political center of the united kingdom.
c. 960-930 BC— this verse
Solomon's Palace Complex Built
Alongside the Temple, Solomon constructs an expansive and lavish palace complex for himself. This complex includes the 'House of the Forest of Lebanon' and his royal throne room, reflecting his immense power and wealth.
c. 930 BC
Division of the Kingdom
Following Solomon's death, the united kingdom splits into two: the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah, due to the oppressive policies and idolatry that had crept in during his later years.
This passage describes a similar, lavish 'couch' or 'throne' made by Solomon, highlighting his immense wealth and the splendor associated with his reign, just like the 'litter' mentioned in Song of Solomon.
1 Kings 4:26This verse details the vast resources and provisions for Solomon's court, including chariots and horses, which contextually supports the idea of a royal procession and the security provided by numerous guards, akin to the sixty mighty men.
2 Chronicles 1:14-17This passage elaborates on Solomon's accumulated wealth in horses and chariots, which demonstrates the scale of his royal infrastructure and military might, offering a parallel to the impressive entourage described in the Song of Solomon.
Psalm 127:1This Psalm speaks about the futility of building or guarding a city without the Lord's help, offering a contrast to the human might and security emphasized in the Song of Solomon's description of Solomon's litter.
What's striking here is not just Solomon's impressive transport, but the specific detail of sixty guards – a number often associated with military strength and formidable protection. This isn't just showing off; it points to the immense value and security placed on the one traveling in that litter.
This verse bursts forth from the beloved's yearning and pursuit of her lover. Just after describing a sleepless night spent searching for him, she exclaims at the sight of a magnificent procession. This grand entrance, accompanied by an armed escort, signals the imminent arrival of her king, Solomon, who will finally reunite with her in a display of royal splendor and security.
This verse bursts forth from the beloved's yearning and pursuit of her lover. Just after describing a sleepless night spent searching for him, she exclaims at the sight of a magnificent procession. This grand entrance, accompanied by an armed escort, signals the imminent arrival of her king, Solomon, who will finally reunite with her in a display of royal splendor and security.
"Behold, it is the litter of Solomon! Around it are sixty mighty men, some of the mighty men of Israel," — What's striking here is not just Solomon's impressive transport, but the specific detail of sixty guards – a number often associated with military strength and formidable protection. This isn't jus…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026