Song of Solomon 5:15
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
This isn't just about physical beauty; the "alabaster columns" and "bases of gold" speak to an incredible, almost divine, solidity and preciousness. It highlights that the Beloved's presence is both strong and valuable, radiating a regal splendor that's meant to inspire awe.
His legs are alabaster columns, set on bases of gold. His appearance is like Lebanon, choice as the cedars.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The Shulamite woman has just described her lover's physical beauty in glowing terms, using vivid natural imagery. She's recounting a dream where she couldn't find him and desperately searched the city, only to be mistreated by guards. Now, after finally finding him again, she's overcome with admiration for his stunning appearance, comparing him to strong, majestic pillars and the grand trees of Lebanon.
What does it mean to compare the Beloved's legs to alabaster columns on golden bases? It's a picture of incredible stability, purity, and value.
Pillars of Excellence
The imagery here is striking. Alabaster is a beautiful, translucent white stone known for its purity and elegance. Comparing his legs to "alabaster columns" suggests a foundation of flawless strength and uprightness.
These columns are "set on bases of gold." Gold speaks of immense value, divine worth, and perfection. Together, this image paints a picture of someone whose very being is both strong and pure, established on a foundation that is precious and unshakeable.
Why compare the Beloved's appearance to the towering, magnificent cedar trees of Lebanon? It's a testament to his unparalleled grandeur.
The Grandeur of Lebanon
The "Lebanon" mentioned here refers to the famed cedar forests that were renowned throughout the ancient world for their towering height, impressive stature, and enduring strength.
To say his "appearance is like Lebanon, choice as the cedars" means he is majestic, imposing, and utterly magnificent. The finest, most precious cedars were used for important structures and symbols of royalty. This comparison elevates the Beloved to a level of supreme beauty and divine authority, far surpassing anything earthly.
Understand the original words
Ask a follow-up
erez · Hebrew Noun
A durable, fragrant, and majestic tree often used as a symbol of strength, royalty, permanence, and divine blessing in the land of Israel.
This passage also uses imagery of precious materials like gold and silver, and describes a majestic figure whose appearance is like shining metal, echoing the rich, regal description in Song of Solomon.
Daniel 10:5-6The description of a divine being with legs like bronze and a face like lightning strongly parallels the Song of Solomon's elevated language, using intense natural and metallic imagery to convey overwhelming beauty and power.
Revelation 1:15This vision of Jesus presents His feet like burnished bronze, shining as if heated in a furnace, which connects directly to the 'alabaster columns' and 'bases of gold' that speak of purity, strength, and divine value.
Psalm 45:2This Psalm praises a king's beauty and eloquence, stating 'You are fairer than the sons of men; grace is poured into your lips,' which aligns with the Song of Solomon's focus on the beloved's incomparable appearance and presence.
This isn't just about physical beauty; the "alabaster columns" and "bases of gold" speak to an incredible, almost divine, solidity and preciousness. It highlights that the Beloved's presence is both strong and valuable, radiating a regal splendor that's meant to inspire awe.
The Shulamite woman has just described her lover's physical beauty in glowing terms, using vivid natural imagery. She's recounting a dream where she couldn't find him and desperately searched the city, only to be mistreated by guards. Now, after finally finding him again, she's overcome with admiration for his stunning appearance, comparing him to strong, majestic pillars and the grand trees of Lebanon.
The Shulamite woman has just described her lover's physical beauty in glowing terms, using vivid natural imagery. She's recounting a dream where she couldn't find him and desperately searched the city, only to be mistreated by guards. Now, after finally finding him again, she's overcome with admiration for his stunning appearance, comparing him to strong, majestic pillars and the grand trees of Lebanon.
"His legs are alabaster columns, set on bases of gold. His appearance is like Lebanon, choice as the cedars." — This isn't just about physical beauty; the "alabaster columns" and "bases of gold" speak to an incredible, almost divine, solidity and preciousness. It highlights that the Beloved's presence is both…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026
