1 I am merely a rose*

from the land of Sharon,

a lily from the valley.

2 My darling, when compared

with other young women,

you are a lily among thorns.

3 And you, my love,

are an apple tree

among trees of the forest.

Your shade brought me pleasure;

your fruit was sweet.

4 You led me to your banquet room

and showered me with love.

5 Refresh and strengthen me

with raisins and apples.

I am hungry for love!

6 Put your left hand under my head

and embrace me

with your right arm.

7 Young women of Jerusalem,

promise me by the power

of deer and gazelles*

never to awaken love

before it is ready.

8 I hear the voice

of the one I love,

as he comes leaping

over mountains and hills

9 like a deer or a gazelle.

Now he stands outside our wall,

looking through the window

10 and speaking to me.

My darling, I love you!

Let's go away together.

11 Winter is past,

the rain has stopped;

12 flowers cover the earth,

it's time to sing.*

The cooing of doves

is heard in our land.

13 Fig trees are bearing fruit,

while blossoms on grapevines

fill the air with perfume.

My darling, I love you!

Let's go away together.

14 You are my dove

hiding among the rocks

on the side of a cliff.

Let me see how lovely you are!

Let me hear the sound

of your melodious voice.

15 Our vineyards are in blossom;

we must catch the little foxes

that destroy the vineyards.*

16 My darling, I am yours,

and you are mine,

as you feed your sheep

among the lilies.

17 Pretend to be a young deer

dancing on mountain slopes*

until daylight comes

and shadows fade away.