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Introduction to the Song of Songs
Outline of the Song of Songs
- The bride longs for the bridegroom to arrive (1:1–2:7)
- The bridegroom praises the woman he loves (2:8–3:5)
- The bridegroom arrives and praises the bride (3:6–5:1)
- The bride longs for the bridegroom (5:2–6:9)
- The bridegroom praises the beauty of his bride (6:1–8:4)
- Final thoughts about love between a man and a woman (8:5–14)
What is the Song of Songs about?
The Song of Songs is a poem or a series of poems that celebrate love and intimacy between a man and a woman. Jews traditionally have interpreted the book as a picture of God's love for His people Israel. In the same way, many Christians interpret it as a picture of love between Christ and his bride, the church of all believers.
Who wrote the Song of Songs?
The first verse of the book ("The Song of Songs, which is Solomon's") gives the idea that King Solomon of Israel wrote it. However, people have interpreted this verse in different ways, so not everyone is persuaded that Solomon wrote it.
How should the title of this book be translated?
This book is traditionally titled "Song of Songs," which means the very best song, or "Song of Solomon." It may also be called "Songs of Love," "Great Poems of Love," or "The Love Songs of Solomon."
What place do the descriptions of sexual behavior have in the Song of Songs?
The Song of Songs approves of sexual behavior expressing love between a husband his wife.