2:1 I am a [only one of many flowers (i.e., girls)] rose [probably a crocus, daffodil, or narcissus] of Sharon, a lily [a flower of an unknown variety] of the valleys.

2:2 [the male’s evaluation of the worth of his lover] Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the maidens [the male esteems her as greater than all others].

2:3 [the female’s response] Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my lover among the young men. I delight [she enjoys his company] to sit in his shade [protection], and his fruit [pleasure] is sweet to my taste.

2:4 He has taken me to the banquet hall, and his banner over me is love.

2:5 Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love.

2:6 His left arm is under my head, and his right arm embraces me.

2:7 Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you by the gazelles [associated with sexual potency and fertility] and by the does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires [a charge to not be aroused sexually until the right time and person arrives].