The Words Ani Ledodi Vedodi Li are Wrought with History and Meaning

I am for my beloved and my beloved is for me – are words that have been associated with marriage and union for over two thousand years. From “The Song of Songs,” written by King Solomon, these words are a timeless, romantic declaration of love between two people.

At its core, “Ani Ledodi Vedodi Li” reflects a mutual relationship of love and dedication between the Creator and His people. I am my beloved’s signifies our commitment and devotion to God. It is a declaration that everything we do is directed towards fulfilling His will. The latter part, “and my beloved is mine,” expresses G-d’s mutual love and care for us. It is a Divine bond that is dynamic and intimate – a relationship that is echoed in our everyday lives.

If you take the first Hebrew letter from each word it also forms a new word – Elul (אלול) – the hottest month of the year that precedes the High Holidays. It’s the month when G-d is said to be in the field, waiting for us to seek Him out. In this way, Elul is the month that epitomizes “Ani Ledodi Vedodi li.”

King Solomon & Ani Ledodi Vedodi Li 

King Solomon was said to have had a special gold ring of his own that he used to communicate with animals and other worldly beings. Perhaps a result of the legend that he was able to create gold out of other materials, or the sheer simplicity of the meaning that the words broadcast, it is a common Jewish custom to inscribe these words onto wedding rings after the ceremony. Indeed, it has been done for centuries.