KJV ORIGINAL
O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
O my dove, you who hide in the cracks of the rock and in the hidden places of the cliff, let me see your face and hear your voice. Your voice is sweet, and your face is beautiful.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is expressing deep longing to be close to his beloved, calling her to come out from hiding so he can see and hear her.
📚 Historical Context
This comes from the Song of Solomon, a collection of love poems traditionally attributed to King Solomon around 970-930 BC. In ancient Middle Eastern culture, doves often nested in rocky cliffs for protection, making this a tender metaphor for a shy beloved who needs gentle coaxing to emerge from her safe hiding place.
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