The Song Of Solomon
Jewish tradition sees this book picturing Jehovah’s love for Israel, and Christians see it illustrating Christ’s love for the church (Eph. 5:23–33) as well as the individual believer (
The “plot” centers on King Solomon’s love for a humble maiden. Courtship (1:1–3:5) leads to marriage (
The Song of Solomon is also an expression of the love relationship of the believer and the Savior. Christ calls us away from the trivial things of life that we might enjoy a deeper communion with Him. This communion is not without difficulties and disciplines, but it leads to a happier and holier life.
As you read the Song of Solomon, be sure to distinguish the various people speaking. Many recent translations of the Bible, such as the New King James Version, will identify them for you. Also keep in mind that this is a poem for mature people, rich in Oriental imagery, and must be “felt” as well as read. Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes for the inquiring mind, Proverbs for the obedient will, and the Song of Solomon for the loving heart. It takes all three for a balanced life.
“The historical books I may compare to the outer courts of the temple; the gospels, the epistles and the psalms bring us into the holy place, or the court of the priests; but the Song of Solomon is the most holy place—the holy of holies, before which the veil still hangs to many an untaught believer.”
Charles Haddon Spurgeon