Song of Solomon 1:6

Afrikaans 1933/1953

Moenie na my kyk omdat ek so bruinerig is, omdat die son my verbrand het nie: die seuns van my moeder was toornig op my; hulle het my aangestel as oppasser van die wingerde; my eie wingerd het ek nie opgepas nie.

What Does This Mean?

The speaker, likely the Shulamite woman, says she is dark because of sun exposure. She explains that her family made her work in the vineyards, so she couldn't take care of her own vineyard. This verse highlights her sense of neglect and the challenges she faced.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing outside all day and get really tan. Your family asks you to look after the family garden, but you forget to water your own little plot. That's what's happening here. The lady is saying she's dark from working in the sun, and she didn't have time for herself because she was taking care of others.

Historical Background

The Song of Solomon is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, written around 950 BC. It is a collection of love poems between a man and a woman, often interpreted as an allegory of God's love for Israel or Christ's love for the Church. The cultural setting is one where vineyards were a significant part of daily life and economy.

Living It Out Today

In modern terms, this verse can remind us of the importance of self-care. Sometimes, we get so caught up in taking care of others that we neglect ourselves. It's a call to balance our responsibilities with time for our own well-being.

Topics

• love
• self-care
• work
• responsibility
• neglect
• family

Related Verses

• Psalms 84:10
• Proverbs 3:18
• Ezekiel 17:7
• Matthew 11:28
• John 15:1

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Shulamite woman dark?

She is dark because of sun exposure from working in the vineyards, showing her dedication to her family's work.

Why couldn't she keep her own vineyard?

Her family made her work in their vineyards, leaving her no time to take care of her own plot, highlighting a sense of neglect and duty.

What does this verse teach us about work and self-care?

It teaches us the importance of balancing our responsibilities with time for our own well-being, as the Shulamite woman had to prioritize others' work over her own.

How is this verse seen as an allegory?

It can be seen as an allegory for the relationship between God and His people, or Christ and the Church, where one's love and care can sometimes overshadow their own needs.