KJV ORIGINAL
I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
I am dark-skinned, but beautiful, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the black tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is declaring her beauty and worth despite having darker skin, comparing herself to treasured and valuable things.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient times, darker skin often indicated outdoor labor (like working in vineyards), which was associated with lower social status. The Kedarites were nomadic people known for their distinctive black goat-hair tents, while Solomon's curtains were luxurious palace furnishings. The speaker is addressing the wealthy daughters of Jerusalem who likely had lighter skin from staying indoors.
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