Song of Solomon
 Bible Book

Song of Solomon

Poetry-Wisdom • Old Testament • 8 Chapters

Summary

The sixth book of Wisdom; the twenty-second book of the Old Testament; the twenty-second book of the Bible. 

Author: King Solomon, specifically named seven times either as an author (Song of Solomon 1:1) or as the major character (Song of Solomon 1:5; 3:7, 9, 11; 8:11, 12). 

Audience: Solomon’s original audience consisted of those living throughout Israel during his reign. This book was clearly written to adult men and women who recognized the emotional aspects of love and romance. Solomon notes the mutual interest which may exist between a couple prior to marriage. However, sexual intimacy is not discussed until the narrative’s central pair share their wedding night. 

Date: Song of Solomon was written during Solomon’s reign between approximately 970—931 BC.

Illustrative Verse

“Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner over me be love.”

Song of Songs 2:4

Explanation

Written as a lengthy dialogue between a young woman and her lover, Song of Songs seems like a strange book to include in the Bible. For centuries, teachers have used it to draw a parallel to our relationship with God.

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