[1] In my bed at night I sought the one I love; I sought him, but did not find him. [2] I will arise now and go about the city, through the streets and the plazas. I will seek the one I love. I sought him, but did not find him. [3] The guards who go about the city found me. I asked them, "Have you seen the one I love?" [4] I had just passed them when I found the one I love. I held on to him and would not let him go until I brought him to my mother's house- to the chamber of the one who conceived me. [5] Young women of Jerusalem, I charge you by the gazelles and the wild does of the field, do not stir up or awaken love until the appropriate time. [6] Who is this coming up from the wilderness like columns of smoke, scented with myrrh and frankincense from every fragrant powder of the merchant? [7] Look! Solomon's bed surrounded by sixty warriors from the mighty men of Israel. [8] All of them are skilled with swords and trained in warfare. Each has his sword at his side to guard against the terror of the night. [9] King Solomon made a carriage for himself with wood from Lebanon. [10] He made its posts of silver, its back of gold, and its seat of purple. Its interior is inlaid with love by the young women of Jerusalem. [11] Go out, young women of Zion, and gaze at King Solomon, wearing the crown his mother placed on him on the day of his wedding- the day of his heart's rejoicing.
