Old Testament
Song of Solomon 2:9
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 describes her beloved as being like a gazelle or a young deer, symbolizing grace and beauty.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 960 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and love song
- Original Audience
- Lovers and the community of Israel
My beloved is like a gazelle or a young deer. Look — he's standing just behind our wall, peering through the windows, gazing through the lattice.
My beloved is like a roe or a young hart: behold, he standeth behind our wall, he looketh forth at the windows, shewing himself through the lattice.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker describes her beloved as being like a gazelle or a young deer, symbolizing grace and beauty. The imagery of him standing behind a wall and peering through windows suggests a sense of longing and anticipation. It conveys the idea that he is close yet not fully accessible, creating a sense of romantic tension. The use of natural imagery emphasizes the beauty of their love and the excitement of their connection. This moment captures the essence of desire and the thrill of love, as the beloved reveals himself through the lattice, inviting the speaker to notice him. The verse reflects the themes of attraction, intimacy, and the playful nature of love, highlighting the joy and eagerness that comes with romantic relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Song of Solomon 2:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to appreciate the beauty and excitement in our relationships. It reminds us to be attentive to our loved ones, to express our feelings, and to create moments of connection. Embracing the playful aspects of love can strengthen our bonds and deepen our intimacy.
Curated for this public verse page. Song of Solomon Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Song of Solomon 2:9 mean?
Song of Solomon 2:9 describes the beloved as graceful and beautiful, comparing him to a gazelle or young deer. The imagery of him peering through a wall and windows suggests a sense of longing and romantic tension, highlighting the excitement and desire in their relationship.
What is the significance of the gazelle in Song of Solomon 2:9?
The gazelle symbolizes grace and beauty in Song of Solomon 2:9, representing the beloved's appealing qualities. This comparison enhances the romantic imagery and emphasizes the allure of love and attraction.
What does peering through the lattice mean in Song of Solomon 2:9?
Peering through the lattice in Song of Solomon 2:9 suggests intimacy and longing, as the beloved reveals himself while remaining partially hidden. This creates a sense of anticipation and excitement in their relationship.
What themes are present in Song of Solomon 2:9?
Song of Solomon 2:9 encompasses themes of love, desire, longing, beauty, and intimacy. The verse captures the playful nature of romance and the thrill of connection between lovers.

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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