Purpose

To celebrate the beauty of love and marriage as God designed it, and possibly to picture God's love for His people.

Author

Solomon, at the height of his wisdom and poetic ability. As a king who had 700 wives and 300 concubines, Solomon knew about love, but this poem celebrates pure, devoted love between one man and one woman.

Historical Context

Written: 965-935 BC. A love poem celebrating the relationship between Solomon and his beloved bride.

Significance

Shows that physical love in marriage is beautiful and blessed by God, and may picture Christ's love for the church.

Key Themes

Love, Marriage, Beauty, Devotion, Intimacy

Interesting Facts

• The only book in the Bible that never mentions God by name
• Contains some of the most beautiful love poetry ever written
• Has been interpreted as both literal (about marriage) and allegorical (about God's love)

Prophecies

• The love between bridegroom and bride (allegorically) Fulfilled: Christ's love for His church (Ephesians 5:25-32) (1000 years later)

Song of Solomon Chapter 1 opens with an introduction to a love poem attributed to King Solomon, a celebration of romantic love and desire. The chapter begins with the beloved expressing her longing for her lover, yearning for his kisses, which she declares are more precious than wine. This sets the tone for the entire poem, showcasing the depth of emotion and attraction between the two lovers. The beloved praises her lover's fragrant oils and the allure of his name, suggesting that his identity is intertwined with beauty and desirability. A notable contrast is introduced when she describes herself as dark-skinned but lovely, indicating that while she acknowledges societal perceptions of beauty, her self-worth is derived from her love and connection to her partner. She expresses a desire to be close to him, asking where he pastures his flock, which symbolizes her longing for intimacy and companionship. The beloved's self-consciousness about her appearance reflects a common human experience of insecurity, yet she is reassured by her lover's response, who calls her beautiful. The chapter continues with vivid metaphors, comparing the beloved to a mare among Pharaoh's chariots and describing her beauty in terms of jewelry and nature. The imagery of fragrances, such as nard and myrrh, evokes sensory experiences of love, highlighting the physical and emotional closeness between the lovers. The chapter culminates in a celebration of their physical and emotional bond, with descriptions of their green couch and the wooden rafters of their home symbolizing comfort and safety in their relationship. This chapter sets the stage for a profound exploration of love, desire, and beauty throughout the rest of the poem, emphasizing the importance of romantic love as a divine gift and a source of joy.