Introduction
The phrase “Rose of Sharon” is found in the Song of Solomon 2:1. The exact identity of the Rose of Sharon is not clear, but it is often interpreted as a symbol of beauty and love. Amongst us Christians it is seen as a representation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, symbolizing His consummate beauty, and the love He brings to us His followers, the Church. While the exact plant is not identified, it is often associated with various flowers native to the region of Sharon in beloved Israel, such as crocuses, hibiscus and tulips[1]. The symbolism of the Rose of Sharon in the Bible is important in that it represents beauty, and love, all alike consistent with the nature and person of the Centerpiece of Scripture, our Lord Jesus Christ, in this manner finding its way into worship hymns and Christian art and literature. In the Song of Solomon, it is used to describe “the Beloved,” apt imagery meant to convey deep affection and admiration between “the Beloved,” where “the Beloved” refers to the Shulammite woman and her lover, often interpreted as King Solomon; the Song of Solomon is itself a poetic dialogue between these two lovers, celebrating their love and affection for each other. The Shulammite woman is the one who refers to herself as the “rose of Sharon” and the “lily of the valleys,” emphasizing her modesty and natural beauty[2].This imagery highlights the deep love and admiration between the lovers, as well as the beauty and purity of their relationship. In the broader and profound Christian interpretation, “the Beloved” is unambiguously seen as a representation of the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Bride, the Church, with the “Rose of Sharon” for its part symbolizing our Lord’s consummate beauty, and deep love for His Church, i.e., His followers (Song of Song of Solomon 2:1, 4, 10,16—these verses foreshadow the deep love, care, and mutual belonging that characterize the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Church). The above interpretations concerning the Rose of Sharon and the Lilly of the Valleys are not directly stated in the Bible of course, but rather developed through theological reflection and symbolism which has spanned centuries—Christian thinkers and theologians have long pondered its significance especially in relation to Jesus Christ and the Church. This reflection dates back to early Christian writings and has continued through the Middle Ages and into modern times. Early Church fathers, such as Origen and Augustine for example, saw the Song of Solomon as a metaphor for the relationship between our Savior and His Church. This interpretation has influenced Christian thought and art and literature for centuries bottom line.
Concluding Comments
The Rose of Sharon for its part holds a profound place in biblical and specifically Christian symbolism. Whether seen as a representation of beauty and love and a metaphor for the loving relationship between Jehovah God and the Apple of His Eye Israel (Jewish tradition), or as a symbol of our Savior Jesus’ divine presence and uninterruptible loving “fussing” over His Beloved Church, indeed, like a committed, faithful, loving Husband (Christian tradition), it deeply inspires and ever resonates with all of God’s people. Whether seeing it or thinking about it, may the Rose of Sharon serve as a reminder of the beauty, love, and hope that our Savior Jesus brought, yea brings to the world. (Here is beauty, love, and hope realized for the asking: “A Letter of Invitation.”)
Praised be your Name great Savior God, even Rose of Sharon, Lily of the Valleys. Amen.
Notes
[1] The name, “Rose of Sharon,” is derived from the Plain of Sharon in Israel, itself a fertile region known for its beautiful wildflowers (please see, also).
[2] Roses often symbolize beauty, love, and passion, their vibrant colors and delicate petals have made them a universal emblem of beauty and romance. And in not a few cultures around the world lilies often represent purity, modesty, and renewal. The lily’s elegant and simple form, along with its association with spring and new beginnings, contributes to its symbolism of modesty and purity.