What Is a Lily?

“I am the rose of Sharon, And the lily of the valleys.”
— Song of Solomon 2:1, NKJV

This poetic verse from the Song of Solomon contains rich symbolism. It mentions two types of flowers:

1. The Rose of Sharon, and

2. The Lily of the Valleys

Each of these carries spiritual significance and has been interpreted by many theologians to represent aspects of Jesus Christ, especially His beauty, humility, and accessibility to all.

If you’d like to explore more about the Rose of Sharon, you can read about it [here] >> Rose of Sharon.
But for now, let’s focus on the Lily of the Valleys.

What is a Lily?

The lily is a delicate, beautiful flower that thrives in valleys and gentle hillsides — low places. In contrast to the Rose of Sharon, which grows in open plains, the lily’s preferred environment symbolizes humility, gentleness, and quiet beauty.

In biblical times, lilies were often associated with purity and grace. Jesus referred to lilies in His teachings to illustrate God’s provision and care:

“Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”
— Luke 12:27, NKJV

Who Does the Lily Represent?

The lily of the valleys is often interpreted as a symbolic description of Christ Himself. He is the one who descended into the “valleys” of human suffering and sorrow. He did not remain distant or exalted, but came down into our brokenness. This reflects the incarnation — God becoming flesh and dwelling among us (John 1:14).

Jesus is both:

• The Rose of Sharon – glorious, majestic, exalted

• The Lily of the Valleys – gentle, humble, close to the lowly

He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End (Revelation 22:13). His presence covers the heights and the depths of life. Whether we are in a high place or the lowest valley, Christ is there.

Just like a lily attracts the eye with its beauty and fills the air with fragrance, Jesus draws people to Himself with His love, compassion, and truth. As Scripture declares:

“He is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend.”
— Song of Solomon 5:16, NKJV

Why Does This Matter?

Knowing Christ as the Lily of the Valleys reminds us that He is present in our hardest moments, not just in times of joy. He is the Savior who sympathizes with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15), who was “despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” (Isaiah 53:3, NKJV)

And yet, He offers us rest, peace, and salvation.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28, NKJV

Will You Come to Him?

If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus, you are missing the most vital relationship in life. He offers not religion, but rest for your soul — forgiveness of sin, peace with God, and eternal life.

Receive Him today.

Maranatha — The Lord is coming!