What a lovely story, it seems to dance as you read it. Gentle and sweet, a reminder to me that the joy love brings does not change throughout the ages. I too, have wondered about this book's placement in the Bible. I wonder if our own insecurities and misunderstandings are what make Song of Solomon seem out of place?
In centuries past, the Song of Solomon has been interpreted by many as the love between God and Israel or Christ and the church. Its imagery (in some places, explicit!) couldn't really be about physical love between a man and woman. Outrageous! Not surprisingly, this is one of the books that was debated if it should be considered scripture.
As for its limited use in preaching, I can say I have used it for marriage sermons.
Maybe I might use it some time for a different context!
I wonder how many boys have flirted with girls by shoving mud down their back...
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I want to say, while I did decide to write the story as an actual man and woman before betrothal, I also found the interpretation of God and the church helpful when studying the book. After studying Jewish marriage traditions, I now have a greater understanding of what Christ means when he says, “I’m preparing a place for you in my father’s house.” When I think about an actual bride awaiting her groom, betrothed but not yet married, I understand her desire for him burns in her heart each day. I think that translates to a deep yearning for Christ to come, awaiting the night, watching the road. Each night, waiting, watching, hoping, being ready, longing for him. I now have a deeper understanding of the analogy.
Just thought I’d share that! Thanks for your comments, as always.
What a lovely story, it seems to dance as you read it. Gentle and sweet, a reminder to me that the joy love brings does not change throughout the ages. I too, have wondered about this book's placement in the Bible. I wonder if our own insecurities and misunderstandings are what make Song of Solomon seem out of place?
In centuries past, the Song of Solomon has been interpreted by many as the love between God and Israel or Christ and the church. Its imagery (in some places, explicit!) couldn't really be about physical love between a man and woman. Outrageous! Not surprisingly, this is one of the books that was debated if it should be considered scripture.
As for its limited use in preaching, I can say I have used it for marriage sermons.
Maybe I might use it some time for a different context!
I wonder how many boys have flirted with girls by shoving mud down their back...
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I want to say, while I did decide to write the story as an actual man and woman before betrothal, I also found the interpretation of God and the church helpful when studying the book. After studying Jewish marriage traditions, I now have a greater understanding of what Christ means when he says, “I’m preparing a place for you in my father’s house.” When I think about an actual bride awaiting her groom, betrothed but not yet married, I understand her desire for him burns in her heart each day. I think that translates to a deep yearning for Christ to come, awaiting the night, watching the road. Each night, waiting, watching, hoping, being ready, longing for him. I now have a deeper understanding of the analogy.
Just thought I’d share that! Thanks for your comments, as always.