Old Testament

Song of Solomon 1:6

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 feelings of insecurity and neglect.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Solomon
Written
Around 960 BC
Genre
Poetry and love song
Original Audience
Lovers and the community of Israel
CBTClear Bible Translation

Don't look at me because I am dark, because the sun has looked upon me. My mother's children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards, but I have not kept my own vineyard.

KJVKing James Version

Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me: my mother’s children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards; but mine own vineyard have I not kept.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the speaker expresses feelings of insecurity and neglect. She feels judged for her dark skin, which she attributes to working in the sun. The mention of her mother's children suggests familial conflict, as they have assigned her the task of tending to vineyards, leaving her own needs unattended. This reflects a deeper theme of self-worth and the struggle to balance responsibilities with personal care. The speaker's lament about not keeping her own vineyard symbolizes neglecting her own well-being and identity due to external pressures and expectations. This verse highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the need to prioritize one's own needs amidst societal and familial demands.

How to apply Song of Solomon 1:6 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our own self-worth and the importance of caring for ourselves. It reminds us to prioritize our well-being and not let external judgments dictate our value. We should strive to balance our responsibilities while nurturing our own identities and needs.

Curated for this public verse page. Song of Solomon Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Song of Solomon 1:6 mean about self-image?

Song of Solomon 1:6 addresses the speaker's feelings of insecurity regarding her appearance, specifically her dark skin. She feels judged and undervalued, which reflects a broader theme of self-acceptance. The verse encourages readers to embrace their identity and beauty, regardless of societal standards or external opinions.

How does familial conflict play a role in this verse?

In this verse, the speaker mentions her mother's children being angry with her, indicating a conflict within her family. This conflict leads to her being assigned the task of tending to vineyards, which symbolizes the burdens placed upon her. It highlights how familial relationships can impact one's self-worth and personal responsibilities.

What does 'keeping my own vineyard' symbolize?

The phrase 'keeping my own vineyard' symbolizes the speaker's neglect of her own needs and well-being. While she tends to the responsibilities assigned to her, she fails to care for herself. This metaphor emphasizes the importance of self-care and the struggle to maintain one's identity amidst external demands.

How can we apply the message of this verse to our lives?

This verse encourages us to reflect on our self-worth and prioritize our well-being. It serves as a reminder not to let external judgments define us. By balancing our responsibilities with self-care, we can nurture our identities and ensure that we are not neglecting our own needs in the process.

The Book of Song of Solomon
Book Summary

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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