The Song of Solomonsurvey of the Bible

General Overview

like the other books of poetry/wisdom, the Song of Solomon is unique in many ways only Old Testament book not to be referenced

in some way by the New Testament written in the form of a play, with characters

and scenes, though the exact parts are not preserved

because of this, several interpretations have been suggested and accepted, though because of the material, they do not differ doctrinally

Common Interpretations

marriage of King Solomon to the Shulamite according to this reading, Solomon

marries the Shulamite early in the book, and the book is a poetic view of the joys and troubles of marriage

however, while Solomon is certainly a character in this story (3:6-11), his is not the best example of marriage (6:8-9)(1 Kngs. 11:1-4)

Common Interpretations

courting of the Shulamite by a shepherd according to this reading, the Shulamite

loves and is loved by a shepherd (1:7-8), but is also pursued by the vain king, Solomon

she eventually rejects the advances of Solomon – centering around riches, beauty, and sensuality – in favor of the true love of the shepherd (8:5-7)

Themes of Song of Solomon

similar themes, regardless of reading the emotional side of love is not to be

ignored it is a powerful force, if rightly directed (2:3-5, 6-7) under the restrictions of God’s law, it will guard

and maintain the closeness of marriage (8:6-7)

infatuation is shallow, but true love is loyal (Prov. 31:30)(1 Cor. 13:8)

the beauty and promise of marriage and the joys and fulfillment it holds (Gen. 2:18)

Importance to Christians

as Paul describes, married love has both a spiritual and temporal application(Eph. 5:22-33) spiritually, Christ is the head of the church,

loves her and provides for her, and His faithfulness is to be rewarded with our own faithfulness to His will

likewise, the husband bears the responsibility of selfless leadership, and the wife the honorable charge of submission and support

Conclusion

Song of Solomon reminds us of the joy and love that should accompany courtship and marriage while not an obvious connection to the

scheme of redemption (Christ and the church), godly families are essential to the strength of the God’s kingdom

will you respond to the love and offering that was given by Christ in for your soul?