SONG OF SOLOMON BOOK OVERVIEW
OLD TESTAMENT POETRY: THE BEAUTY OF LOVE + WISDOM
Song of Solomon (or Song of Songs) is an epic love story written about a passionate young couple about to be married. Although the title of this book is often referred to as Song of Solomon, it is unknown whether Solomon is the author of the song, a character within the song, or if it was simply written during his reign. The content of this book has sparked debates that revolve around whether it portrays a human couple deeply in love or symbolizes God's relentless pursuit of humanity. However, regardless of the interpretation, it conveys a profound message of beauty and wisdom, offering insights into both humans’ earthly relationships with each other and our individual relationships with God.
This book highlights the romantic nature of being pursued - both by a partner and by God. Parts of this book describe the beauty of the female body and the delight found in righteous sexual relationships. Scripture contains other recordings of sex being perverted in sinful, destructive ways, but Song of Solomon shows a glimpse of God’s intent for sex: an intimate and delightful encounter between two members of a committed and loving couple.
MAIN IDEAS: A DEPICTION OF PASSION + LONGING
Showing the power of romantic love, the couple shares their affection. (Song of Solomon 1:1-17)
When separated from her beloved, the woman longs for his nearness. (Song of Solomon 3:1-5)
The woman warns against awakening love before the appropriate time. (Song of Solomon 2:7, 8:4)
Using words that mirror creation, they describe each other’s beauty. (Song of Solomon 5:10-16)
EXAMPLE OF GOD’S CHARACTER: GOD‘S DESIGN FOR MARRIAGE
In the garden of Eden, God designed man and woman in His image. God saw His creation and said that it was good. The only time God saw that it was not good was when man was alone (Genesis 2:18). God brought Adam and Eve together in a perfect union, united as one flesh. While they were together, they were both naked but unashamed (Genesis 2:22-25).
When sin entered the world, God’s image of marriage was quickly distorted. Stories of lust, infidelity, and prostitution can be found throughout the pages of Scripture. Song of Solomon paints a beautiful picture of what God intended. Instead of sexual immorality and corruption, the couple serves as an example of loving commitment and delight in one another.
JESUS IN SONG OF SOLOMON: COVENANT LOVE
Throughout the Bible, God made many important promises, which are called covenants. Most notably, God made covenants with Noah, Abraham, and David. Throughout the Bible, humanity failed to keep their covenants with God. Time after time, God was faithful despite the people’s rebellion. Upon the arrival of Jesus, God established a new covenant that promised eternal life for those who believed in Jesus as the Savior. Marriage is also a covenant - a promise between God and two people. Song of Solomon points to the beauty and power found in a faithful covenant promise.
In response to the new covenant, believers are called to follow Jesus and become more like him. In Ephesians 5, Paul wrote that husbands are to love their wives in the same sacrificial way that Jesus loves believers. This image of a loving covenant permeates throughout Scripture and paints an image of a faithful, passionate God.
