Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me: my mother’s children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards; but mine own vineyard have I not kept.
Don't stare at me because I am dark, because the sun has tanned me: my mother's children were angry with me; they made me take care of the vineyards, but I haven't been able to take care of my own vineyard.
The woman is explaining that she's been darkened by the sun from working outdoors in vineyards for her family, but she's had to neglect caring for herself in the process.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Middle Eastern culture, darker skin from sun exposure indicated outdoor labor and lower social status, while lighter skin was associated with leisure and higher class. Women who worked in fields were often looked down upon. The Song of Solomon presents a love story between a shepherd girl and King Solomon, with this verse showing the girl's self-consciousness about her appearance due to her working-class background.
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