Song of Songs 7:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The charioteer urges: Look around, Sulamitha, turn yourself! He speaks as if to the chariot: Turn around, Sulamitha, meaning 'the tranquil one'. A tranquil heart can be swiftly transformed, regardless of past transgressions, allowing Christ to ascend upon it and willingly reign. It is said to him, Thou shalt mount Thy horses, and Thy race shall be saved (Hab. 3:8). Additionally, it is mentioned, I have sent thy horses into the sea (Hab. 3:15). These are Christ’s steeds. Thus, Christ rides upon His horses; the Word of God rides upon sacred souls.

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Just as the Scriptures refer to Solomon, our Lord, as ‘peaceable,’ so too is his bride called ‘peacemaker.’ This designation arises from the peace she has received from him, liberating her from her previous distress. Therefore, when the bridegroom's attendants observe her being persecuted and pursued by the noble chariots of her own people, they offer her encouragement by saying, ‘Look back, look back, O peacemaker! Look back, look back, and we will look upon thee (cf. Song 7:1).’ This can be interpreted as a reminder that she should not fear her pursuers, but rather hold tightly to the teachings and boldly proclaim the truth. She should not be afraid of the chariots or the conflict, for as a peacemaker, she brings forth a powerful message.

In the distance, Sulamita appears in a remarkably beautiful way, and, unaware of her companions’ presence, expresses that she has come to visit the vineyard. Her friends urge her to speak to them, but the bridegroom, who suddenly arrives, curbs their curiosity and resumes his song of adoration for his beloved. He concludes by expressing his desire to partake of the delightful fruits of the date and grape, likening these offerings to his bride.