INTRODUCTION TO SONG OF SONGS
The book is known to be written by Solomon in the earlier days of his rule. Solomon was known to have written many songs and proverbs, and the Song of Songs represents his wisdom and literary talent.
The book's theme is Solomon's love story with a Shulamite woman. He writes the songs from the woman's point of view, with different narrators. Many translations put ‘he,' ‘she,' and ‘friends' as narrators for easier reading.
There are different interpretations for the book, and they do not necessarily conflict with one another. One may read it as a drama script. One may read it as a love poem with either a literal or a metaphorical interpretation to guide young lovers and married couples. And more traditionally, it has been read as Solomon's confession of faith borrowing the words of a woman who was in love with the king himself.
The next several days of devotion will cover the book using more traditional interpretations. May believing readers recognize themselves as the beautiful bride of Christ who comes with great gladness and glory (Revelation 19:7).
In his love song with the Shulamite maiden (6:13), Solomon describes the feelings between the king and a young woman who have just fallen in love with each other.
The woman expresses her overwhelming love for the king and desire to be with him (4,7,2:4). She was an outcast in the family and was put to labor under the hot sun. She knows she may seem less qualified as the king's lover than the women of Jerusalem (1:5,6, 2:1), yet feels secure in the king's love. Trusting in his love, she longs to be protected (2:4) and provided by him (2:5). In the chorus of blessings from the people around them (1:4,8), the couple feels delighted in each other's presence.
Their relationship is in perfect harmony. We can have such a relationship with Christ when we submit to him fully and recognize his almighty power and protection. Do you want to have that relationship with him? What has been distracting you from having perfect harmony with the Lord? Would you come together in prayer to establish and restore the relationship with the Lord?
Application: Father, thank you for Jesus, my true love and shepherd. I long to be in your presence and hear your words. Please come into my heart and help me to delight in you.
One Word: Your love is more delightful…