Photo by martinak15

by Chloe Sun

The new year always involves new resolutions. It is not surprising to notice from public media and private conversations that weight loss is one of the top New Year’s resolutions. Many of us are obsessed with the way we look. We want to look good. The new year reminds us of that. Recently, a verse from Song of Songs captured my attention regarding the subject of one’s appearance.

When describing herself, the main female character in the book says, “I am dark but lovely” (Song of Songs 1:5a). She is keenly aware of her physical imperfection – her skin color is dark. Although this darkness is caused by the sun (1:6), it reflects her own insecurities about her looks. In Western culture, tanned skin is considered healthy, robust, and beautiful, but not in the culture of this female character. However, she does not stop by saying “I am dark.” She also immediately adds on the phrase “but lovely.” I would call this a healthy acceptance and affirmation of one’s physical appearance.

Perhaps when looking in the mirror, some of us notice our own physical imperfections, whether it is wrinkles, lines, or acne.  Do we feel depressed and judge ourselves, telling ourselves “I am not beautiful”? Can we learn from this female character in the Song of Songs that “I am dark but lovely”? Can we add positive attributes about our appearance or ourselves to counterbalance our negative attributes? For instance: “I am short but charming.” “I am round but inspiring.” “I am quiet but confident.” In this new year, what phrase would you use to describe yourself that acknowledges your imperfections (physical or otherwise) but also affirms your positive qualities at the same time?

Chloe Sun, PhD., has been teaching Hebrew Scriptures at Logos Evangelical Seminary since 2004.  Her research interests include culture, gender, and identity issues in the Old Testament, Asian American Interpretations of the Bible, and Wisdom Literature. She lives with her husband and son in Southern California.