What are four different interpretations of the Song of Songs, give an

example of how each interpretation deals with a portion of the text, and

which do you hold and why?

1. There are four different interpretations of the Song of Songs which may be

identified, starting with the classic interpretation of the book being an allegory of

Gods love for Israel. God often expressed his love for Israel in human terms, so

those that adhere to this view simply interpret all endearing terms of love, care,

and faithfulness in light of Gods passion and desire for Israel. For example, 1:9

is the beginning of a discussion between the two lovers, which would be

interpreted as Gods covenant love for Israel.

2. The next interpretation of this book is that it is a picture of Christs love for the

Church. The Church is often referred to as a bride, so all interpretations are

therefore understood through this lens. For example, 2:16 says, My beloved is

mine, and I am his; he pastures his flock among the lilies. According to this

view, this is a reference to the both the Church and Christ belonging to each

other in a covenant relationship.

3. The third interpretation is that this is a type of the Christ-Church marriage

illustration. This view claims that this book is a foreshadowing of the actual

relationship between Christ and the Church, as it stems from the view that Christ

is found on every book. For example, this views the groom as being a type of

Christ, especially in his love for the church (his bride), and the wife being a type

of the church. For example, 7:10 says, I am my beloveds, and his desire is for

me. Christ desired the church, and the church has a desire for Christ.

4. The last view, is the belief that Song of Solomon is a book written about a love

relationship between a man and a woman. Personally, this is the view I see the

most validity in. It shows the beauty and intensity of marriage, and the joy found

in pursing marriage in Gods way. For example, chapter seven is an explanation

by the groom of his wifes beauty. He delighted in her and shared of his

happiness with her.