Song of Solomon 2:7 (NKJV)
„I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, By the gazelles or by the does of the field, Do not stir up nor awaken love Until it pleases.“
This poetic verse from the Song of Solomon (also known as the Song of Songs) is rich with both practical counsel for human relationships and prophetic symbolism pointing to Christ’s relationship with His Church (cf. Ephesians 5:31–32, NKJV).
Traditionally attributed to King Solomon, this book is filled with metaphorical and poetic language expressing the beauty, intimacy, and sacredness of love.
In Song 2:7, Solomon (or the Shulammite woman, depending on the interpretation) offers an exhortation to wait for the proper time for love to be awakened. The caution is both natural and spiritual.
They symbolize young women, or metaphorically, anyone preparing for or desiring love and marriage. Solomon is urging them not to awaken romantic feelings or sexual passion before the right time.
This is a call to sexual purity, emotional wisdom, and patient discernment.
„By the gazelles or by the does of the field…“ (Song of Solomon 2:7, NKJV)
In ancient Hebrew culture, oaths were often made in the name of the Lord (cf. Deuteronomy 6:13). But here, the oath is made by wild animals creatures known for their gentleness, timidity, and swift flight when startled.
The gazelle (Hebrew: ṣəḇî) and the doe represent delicacy, vulnerability, and elusiveness. Love, like these creatures, must not be hunted with reckless passion or impatience, lest it flee or be destroyed.
This line is a clear warning against premature emotional or physical intimacy.
Theological Insight:
In 1 Corinthians 13:4–5 (NKJV), Paul describes love as patient and kind, not self-seeking or rushed.
Proverbs 4:23 (NKJV) says,
„Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.“ Rushing love invites emotional wounds, regret, and spiritual compromise.
Application for Youth and Singles:
Many enter relationships out of loneliness, lust, or peer pressure, not readiness.
Rushing into vows or sexual intimacy before the right season can lead to pain, brokenness, or failed marriages.
Love awakened prematurely can burn like a fire but quickly fade (cf. Song 8:6–7).
The Song of Songs also contains allegorical meaning. Early Jewish and Christian scholars viewed it as symbolic of:
God’s love for Israel (cf. Isaiah 54:5)
Christ’s love for His Church (cf. Ephesians 5:25–27)
Just as romantic love must develop in time and truth, so must a believer’s love for Christ. It cannot be forced or based solely on emotional highs, miracles, or crises.
John 15:4–5 (NKJV): “Abide in Me… for without Me you can do nothing.” True love for Christ grows through abidingconsistent relationship, not instant emotion.
1 Peter 1:8 (NKJV):
„Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible…“ Love for Jesus deepens over time as we learn His heart through the Word, prayer, obedience, and worship.
Many are drawn to Jesus for what He gives, not for who He is.
John 6:26 (NKJV) Jesus rebuked the crowd: „You seek Me… because you ate of the loaves and were filled.“ That’s not real love it’s selfish desire.
When hardship comes, some turn back, saying, „This is not what I expected.“ Like chasing a deer too quickly, they lose what they were pursuing.
True love for Christ is not built on moments, but on relationship.
Song of Solomon 2:7 (NKJV):
“I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or by the does of the field: Do not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases.”
This verse urges caution, patience, and spiritual wisdom:
Let romantic love awaken in God’s time, not by impulse or pressure.
Let spiritual love for Christ grow from a place of depth, not drama.
Whether in courtship or in your walk with Christ:
Wait on the Lord’s timing (cf. Psalm 27:14, NKJV)
Seek wisdom, not emotional impulse (cf. James 1:5)
Pursue depth, not speed
Let your heart be like a quiet field, where love comes gently and naturally in the season God appoints.
May the Lord bless and guide you.
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