Old Testament
Song of Solomon 1:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the speaker expresses admiration for the beloved's fragrance, which symbolizes their attractiveness and charm.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 960 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and love song
- Original Audience
- Lovers and the community of Israel
The fragrance of your perfume is pleasing. Your name is like perfume poured out, so the young women love you.
Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker expresses admiration for the beloved's fragrance, which symbolizes their attractiveness and charm. The comparison of their name to perfume suggests that it carries a sweet and pleasant reputation, drawing others to them. The mention of young women loving the beloved indicates a universal appeal, highlighting the beloved's qualities that inspire affection and admiration. This imagery emphasizes the importance of reputation and the impact of one's character on others. Just as a delightful scent can attract people, a good name and character can endear someone to others, making them desirable companions. The verse captures the essence of love and attraction, illustrating how beauty and virtue can resonate deeply with those around us. Explore related honor.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Song of Solomon 1:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to cultivate a good reputation and character, as they can attract positive relationships. Just like a pleasing fragrance draws people in, our actions and integrity can influence how others perceive us. Strive to be someone who inspires love and admiration through kindness and authenticity.
Curated for this public verse page. Song of Solomon Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Song of Solomon 1:3 mean?
Song of Solomon 1:3 expresses admiration for the beloved's fragrance, symbolizing their attractiveness and charm. It highlights how a good reputation can draw others in, much like a pleasing scent.
What is the significance of perfume in Song of Solomon 1:3?
In this verse, perfume represents the beloved's appealing qualities and positive reputation. Just as a delightful fragrance attracts people, a good name can endear someone to others.
What does the phrase 'your name is like perfume poured out' mean?
The phrase suggests that the beloved's name carries a sweet and pleasant reputation, indicating that their character and actions inspire affection and admiration from others.
How does Song of Solomon 1:3 relate to love and attraction?
This verse illustrates that beauty and virtue can resonate deeply with those around us, emphasizing how a good character can inspire love and admiration.

The Book of Song of Solomon
Song of Solomon 1: Longing for the Beloved
The woman speaks first. She longs for the kisses of the man she loves and says his love is better than wine. She speaks of his name as fragrant perfume and says the virgins love him. She asks him to draw her away so they may run together. She says the king brings her into his chambers, and the daughters of Jerusalem speak of rejoicing and remembering his love more than wine. The woman says she is dark but beautiful, like the tents of Kedar and the curtains of Solomon. She asks the daughters of Jerusalem not to stare at her because the sun has darkened her. She explains that her brothers were angry with her and made her keep the vineyards, but she has not kept her own vineyard.
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