Myrrh – The Fragrance of Intimacy and Devotion

In Song of Solomon 5:5,13, myrrh is once again portrayed as a fragrance of love and closeness. The bride describes her hands dripping with sweet-smelling myrrh as she reaches for her beloved, a poetic image of longing and intimacy. Later, she compares his cheeks to a bed of spices and his lips to lilies, also dropping myrrh. This repetition of myrrh underscores its treasured role as both an aromatic and symbolic oil, linking it to deep affection and the beauty of human relationships. In biblical times, myrrh was often used in perfumes and ointments, making it an unmistakable sign of devotion, care, and tenderness.

The use of myrrh in these verses reminds us that essential oils were not only tools for worship and healing but also woven into the poetry of love. Their scents carried meaning beyond the physical, expressing emotions and connections too deep for words alone. Today, myrrh essential oil is still cherished for its soothing, grounding qualities. Just as in Solomon’s song, it continues to symbolize the blending of love, fragrance, and faith—reminding us of the sacredness found in both spiritual devotion and human bonds.