The Song of Solomon is one of the most neglected books in all of scripture. Maybe it is neglected because it is not easy to understand. It can leave you confused and wondering what’s going on. A great example of this can be seen in the first few verses of the book (Song of Solomon 1:1-4).

It is important to remember that this book is also the inspired word of God (2 Timothy 3:16). God has preserved it for a reason. There is something in this book that is relevant to our lives and can help us please God.

What is it all about?

  • It is about romantic love, passion, affection, and sexual intimacy (Song of Solomon 1:1-2, 15-16; 2:1-3, 10, 15-17; 4:4-7; 7:1-4, 10-11).
  • This is something we need to be thankful for because we currently live in a culture that is saturated with wrong messages about sex. The Song of Solomon teaches us the truth about the joy that comes with romantic love and sexual intimacy when we do things God’s way.
  • Their love grows (chapters 1-2).
  • The bride has a nightmare about losing her love (chapter 3:1-5).
  • The wedding day finally arrives (chapter 3:6-11).
  • Conflicts arise and are resolved (chapters 5-6).
  • Their appreciation for one another grows over time (chapter 7).
  • The couple continues to express strong love and affection (chapter 8).

Read it like watching a musical.

  • We must pay close attention to what the characters are saying to figure out what is going on.
  • While at the table, the king smells her perfume (Song of Solomon 1:12). They are having a formal dinner together.
  • They are walking among houses of “cedars” and “cypresses” (Song of Solomon 1:17). They are walking among the trees in the spring.
  • The woman seeks her love on her bed at night and cannot find him (Song of Solomon 3:1). She is about to have a dream.
  • The dialogue in the book also goes back and forward so much that it can be confusing (see the transition between chapters 1-2). However, some Bibles help you with this problem by identifying each speaker above the text in the margin.

See its value!

  • It helps young people. It reveals God’s desire for sexual intimacy to be reserved for marriage. Parents need to read and discuss chapter 3 with their children!
  • It helps couples who have been married for a long time. The book teaches that romance is NOT to end after the period of dating ceases. Couples need to work at building companionship and intimacy constantly. They need always to be kind, encouraging, and sensitive to each other’s needs.

Conclusion:

Are you part of Jesus’ bride (Ephesians 5:22-33)?