Kol Dodi

I wrote Kol Dodi for my parents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary, using verses (in Hebrew) from Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs). The counterpoint suggested by two expressions of the same sentiment (“My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feeds among the lilies.” [2:16], and “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine: he feeds among the lilies.” [6:3]) is the idea behind the recurring refrain that opens the piece. Between occurrences of this refrain are declarations of love. The first is by the men (“Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant.” [1:15], “Thou art all fair, my love…” [4:7], “How fair is thy love, my sister, my bride!” [4:10]), which is answered by exclamations from the women (“The voice of my beloved!” [2:8]). The second is by the women (“His mouth is most sweet: and he is altogether lovely; this is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem!” [5:16]), and the third by everyone (“Many waters cannot quench love…” [8:7]).