Old Testament
Song of Solomon 2:5
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 a deep longing and emotional pain caused by love.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 960 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and love song
- Original Audience
- Lovers and the community of Israel
Sustain me with flagons, refresh me with apples, for I am lovesick.
Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker expresses a deep longing and emotional pain caused by love. The mention of 'flagons' and 'apples' symbolizes a desire for comfort and sustenance during this overwhelming experience. Flagons, often associated with wine, suggest a need for joy and celebration, while apples represent sweetness and refreshment. The phrase 'lovesick' indicates that the speaker is so consumed by their feelings that they feel physically unwell. This verse captures the intensity of romantic love, illustrating how it can bring both joy and distress. The imagery used conveys a sense of yearning and the need for support from a beloved, highlighting the emotional complexities of love. It reflects the idea that love can be both uplifting and burdensome, requiring care and nurturing to thrive. Overall, this verse encapsulates the passionate and sometimes painful nature of love, emphasizing the importance of connection and comfort in relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Song of Solomon 2:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek comfort and support in our relationships, especially during times of emotional turmoil. It reminds us to be attentive to the needs of our loved ones and to provide them with the nurturing they require. Love can be challenging, but it is essential to offer care and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Song of Solomon Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Song of Solomon 2:5 mean?
Song of Solomon 2:5 expresses the speaker's deep emotional pain and longing caused by love. The verse uses imagery of 'flagons' and 'apples' to symbolize a need for comfort and refreshment during this overwhelming experience.
What is the significance of 'flagons' in Song of Solomon 2:5?
In Song of Solomon 2:5, 'flagons' symbolize a desire for joy and celebration. They represent the speaker's wish for emotional sustenance and support in the context of love.
What does 'lovesick' mean in Song of Solomon 2:5?
The term 'lovesick' in Song of Solomon 2:5 indicates that the speaker is so deeply affected by their feelings of love that it causes physical and emotional discomfort. It highlights the intensity and complexity of romantic emotions.
How does Song of Solomon 2:5 relate to nurturing relationships?
Song of Solomon 2:5 emphasizes the importance of providing comfort and support in relationships, especially during difficult emotional times. It encourages attentiveness to the needs of loved ones.

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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