Song of Songs 2:6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

As later interpretations draw symbolic insights from the Song of Songs, the bride does not visualize the left hand supporting the tip of an arrow while the right hand encompasses the rest, leading to the idea of the soul being an arrow in the grasp of a mighty warrior, aimed toward a lofty destination. Rather, I envision the left hand positioned beneath the ‘head’ instead of at the point, with the right hand surrounding the other parts. This duality of profoundly mysterious expressions together illustrates the reasoned journey of divine elevation, demonstrating that both the Bridegroom and our archer are truly one.

The imagery of hands represents the bond of marriage.

Be cautious not to take the terms “right hand” and “shuitsa” at face value. For instance, Solomon speaks of wisdom, which is understood as a skill rather than a person: “Length of days is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor” (Proverbs 3:16) and “Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will keep you” (Proverbs 4:6, 8). From this, we learn to spiritually grasp this embrace, signifying the union of the righteous soul with the word of God. What do we mean by the right hand and shuitsa? God either grants blessings to everyone or teaches through discipline based on their actions.

His left hand, a reminder of impending trials and the Final Judgment, rests beneath my head, while his right hand enfolds me.

These two hands symbolize the two covenants: the former law and the message of the Gospel. When it is mentioned, "His left hand" (Song 2:6), it refers to the Old Testament; conversely, the right hand represents the proclamation of the Gospel. Thus, he submits to the Old Testament, acknowledging Christ as the head of the Church, while his right hand encompasses the Gospel’s teachings, through which past transgressions are forgiven. Therefore, the believer who grows in faith and diligently serves Christ leaves behind the old self and embraces anew the body of Christ, which is the Church.

In the Song of Songs, Solomon conveys the voice of the bride, stating: His left hand is under my head, and his right hand embraces me. While both hands serve a purpose, the bride chooses to rest her head upon the left hand. This suggests that challenges and hardships must yield to the central focus of the heart. Adversity, therefore, plays a role in nurturing our character and refining our patience at times. Meanwhile, with the embrace of the bridegroom's right hand, she desires to be fully enveloped and united with him, receiving continual nurture and solace.

What does the left side represent if not our current existence, and what does the right side signify if not everlasting life?

The one who has united you with His community will not cause you sorrow. His left hand, which holds honor and glory, rests beneath your head, while His right hand, which signifies eternal life, wraps around you.

Indeed, the left hand of the bridegroom supports the bride's head, as the Lord nourishes the hearts of the believers with temporal blessings, guiding them away from worldly desires and cravings for the sake of the cherished eternal goodness. His right hand encircles her (Song 2:6), for in manifesting the reflection of His divine majesty, He continuously honors her.

Turning to her beloved, she requests that he reveal the location where her flock gathers. He indicates the spot and begins to extol her beauty and the adornments of her attire. In response, the bride likens him to a lovely flower or a brush that embellishes her heart, and herself to a beautiful narcissus of Sharon. Afterward, she compares her beloved to a splendid apple tree. Overwhelmed by her love, she implores her friends to support her and place her under the apple tree, hoping to find solace in the care of her beloved. He entreats her companions not to disturb her slumber until she awakens on her own.