God loves Israel dearly. This verse shows that His people, to whom the Law was given, understand things about this glorious Law that the bride may not yet grasp. It is true that the later covenant is even more glorious than the former.
“Drink, my friends, drink your fill of love.” —Song of Songs 5:1
Here, we see a picture of intimacy, love, and celebration—but also layers of mystery, particularly between the Bridegroom, His bride, and His covenant people.
In this passage, it seems as if Jesus is introducing His bride to Israel—His brothers and sisters.
The Bridegroom is from the line of David. In fact, He is seen riding Solomon’s carriage (Song of Songs 3:7).
This is not a random image—it ties Jesus to the royal lineage and wisdom tradition of Israel.
The bride is His garden:
“You are a garden… I have come into my garden… Catch the foxes that ruin the vineyard.” —Song of Songs 4:12, 5:1, 2:15
These verses point to cultivation, intentionality, and a shared longing for fruitfulness.
The Bridegroom desires and works for the growth of the Kingdom; however, it seems as if the bride seeks comfort—until she finds herself in trouble. The watchmen of the walls attack and assault her! She is alone, vulnerable.
In this vulnerable state, her disconnection from the Bridegroom is felt deeply.
The revelation of the Word of God is the way back to her Bridegroom:
“Where has your beloved gone, most beautiful of women? Which way did your beloved turn, that we may look for him with you?” —Song of Songs 6:1
There is a communal longing here—others join her search. The daughters of Israel speak with insight and compassion.
His friends, the daughters of Israel, know where He is. They know who He is because He is in their Scriptures. Sadly, some did not receive Him when He came,
but the new covenant is built upon the Law, and grace is of no use without it.
The Law is not discarded—it is fulfilled. Grace does not replace it, but stands upon it, giving it new life through Christ.
Our Lord also said that He did not come to do away with the Law but to fulfill it.
Naomi, a Hebrew woman, had to tell Ruth what to do so that Boaz would understand her intentions.
This example beautifully illustrates mutual dependence.
In the same way, we need our Jewish brothers and sisters in Christ just as much as they need us in order to build God’s Kingdom here on earth. Each brings something special to the table—praise God for well-spread tables filled with all sorts of food to enjoy!
“One new man”—this is the work of reconciliation. Praise the Lord! —Ephesians 2:15
Here is the mystery of unity in Christ: two becoming one, not by erasing difference, but by honoring and reconciling it.
In the end, the Bridegroom and His bride are completely in sync! They have one mission and the same desire. They long to see growth. The Kingdom of God is about growth—Jesus described it as a seed, as yeast in dough, as a land with hidden treasure.
“I went down to the growth of the nut trees to look at the new growth in the valley to see if the vines had budded or the pomegranates were in bloom.”
What began in mystery ends in growth. The Bridegroom looks for fruit, for flourishing, and for fullness. This is the heart of the Kingdom.
© Catherine Maina 2025
Fountains of hope poetry 