Old Testament
Song of Solomon 3:2
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 for their beloved.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 960 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and love song
- Original Audience
- Lovers and the community of Israel
I will rise now and go through the city in the streets and the broad ways, seeking the one my soul loves. I sought him, but I did not find him.
I will rise now, and go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I will seek him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker expresses a deep longing for their beloved. They decide to take action by rising and searching through the city, indicating a sense of urgency and determination. The streets and broad ways symbolize the public spaces where one might expect to find someone. Despite their efforts, the speaker is unable to locate their beloved, which highlights the pain of separation and the intensity of their desire. This search reflects not only a physical quest but also an emotional and spiritual yearning for connection. The repetition of 'sought' emphasizes the depth of their longing and the frustration of not finding the one they love. This verse captures the essence of love's pursuit, illustrating both the joy and sorrow that can accompany such a quest.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Song of Solomon 3:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively seek out what we love, whether it be relationships, passions, or spiritual fulfillment. It reminds us that the journey of searching can be filled with challenges, but the pursuit itself is valuable. Embrace your desires and take steps to fulfill them.
Curated for this public verse page. Song of Solomon Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Song of Solomon 3:2 mean?
Song of Solomon 3:2 expresses a deep longing for a beloved. The speaker decides to actively search through the city, symbolizing urgency and determination, but ultimately feels the pain of separation when they cannot find the one they love.
What is the meaning of 'seeking the one my soul loves' in Song of Solomon 3:2?
'Seeking the one my soul loves' reflects a profound emotional and spiritual yearning for connection. It emphasizes the intensity of love and the lengths one will go to find their beloved.
How does Song of Solomon 3:2 relate to love and longing?
Song of Solomon 3:2 illustrates the themes of love and longing by depicting a heartfelt search for a beloved. The speaker's actions convey the depth of their desire and the pain of not being able to find the one they love.
What can we learn from Song of Solomon 3:2?
From Song of Solomon 3:2, we learn the importance of actively pursuing what we love, whether in relationships or personal passions. It teaches that the journey of searching can be valuable, even when faced with challenges.

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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