This verse poetically portrays the cherished beloved as possessing gentle, refreshing eyes that radiate purity and peace.
In this verse, the bride continues to describe the beloved with tender imagery. When she says, “His eyes are like doves Beside streams of water, Bathed in milk, And reposed in their setting” (Song of Solomon 5:12), she captures a sense of profound purity and calmness. Just as a dove is gentle and associated with a tranquil spirit, these words suggest a peaceful demeanor that is comforting and safe. The notion of eyes set “Beside streams of water”, and “Bathed in milk” reinforces a picture of refreshment and spotless purity—much like a gentle gaze that looks upon others with warmth and acceptance.
In the broader perspective of Song of Solomon, attributed to King Solomon (who reigned from around 971 to 931 B.C.), these words come as part of a poetic exchange celebrating romantic love. Solomon’s portrayal emphasizes the inner qualities of devotion and gentleness, depicted through the eyes as windows into the beloved’s character. The mention of doves throughout Scripture often signifies innocence, tenderness, and even the presence of the Spirit (as in the appearance of the Holy Spirit like a dove at Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 3:16). While this is not an explicit prophecy of Christ, many believers reflect on how genuine love and pure affection in the Song of Solomon resonate with the sacrificial, pure love demonstrated by Jesus (John 15:13).
Furthermore, the phrase “reposed in their setting” calls to mind a harmonious and well-ordered vision of love, indicating that true affection can be both intimate and serene. There are no prominent geographical details explicitly stated in this verse—rather, the imagery transcends a single location, focusing on the universal ideals of refreshment and purity found in a devoted love relationship. In describing the Beloved’s eyes as restful and bright, the verse highlights an intentional emotional bond, one free from conflict and brimming with gentleness.
Set to dark mode
Song of Solomon 5:12 meaning
In this verse, the bride continues to describe the beloved with tender imagery. When she says, “His eyes are like doves Beside streams of water, Bathed in milk, And reposed in their setting” (Song of Solomon 5:12), she captures a sense of profound purity and calmness. Just as a dove is gentle and associated with a tranquil spirit, these words suggest a peaceful demeanor that is comforting and safe. The notion of eyes set “Beside streams of water”, and “Bathed in milk” reinforces a picture of refreshment and spotless purity—much like a gentle gaze that looks upon others with warmth and acceptance.
In the broader perspective of Song of Solomon, attributed to King Solomon (who reigned from around 971 to 931 B.C.), these words come as part of a poetic exchange celebrating romantic love. Solomon’s portrayal emphasizes the inner qualities of devotion and gentleness, depicted through the eyes as windows into the beloved’s character. The mention of doves throughout Scripture often signifies innocence, tenderness, and even the presence of the Spirit (as in the appearance of the Holy Spirit like a dove at Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 3:16). While this is not an explicit prophecy of Christ, many believers reflect on how genuine love and pure affection in the Song of Solomon resonate with the sacrificial, pure love demonstrated by Jesus (John 15:13).
Furthermore, the phrase “reposed in their setting” calls to mind a harmonious and well-ordered vision of love, indicating that true affection can be both intimate and serene. There are no prominent geographical details explicitly stated in this verse—rather, the imagery transcends a single location, focusing on the universal ideals of refreshment and purity found in a devoted love relationship. In describing the Beloved’s eyes as restful and bright, the verse highlights an intentional emotional bond, one free from conflict and brimming with gentleness.