The Book of Song of Solomon, also called Song of Songs, is one of the most unique books in the Bible. It is filled with poetry, love imagery, and deep meaning about relationships, intimacy, and God’s covenant love for His people. Below are ten interesting facts about this remarkable book, with supporting Bible verses.
1. It Is Known as the “Song of Songs”
The title itself suggests it is the greatest of songs, a masterpiece among all songs.
“The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s.” (Song of Solomon 1:1)
The superlative form “Song of Songs” shows its importance in Hebrew poetry.
2. It Was Written by Solomon
Solomon, the son of David and king of Israel, is credited with writing it. He was known for his wisdom and poetry.
“He spoke three thousand proverbs, and his songs were a thousand and five.” (1 Kings 4:32)
The Song of Solomon is believed to be the finest among his songs.
3. It Uses Romantic Imagery
The book celebrates love between a man and a woman through poetic language.
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine.” (Song of Solomon 1:2)
This shows love as something beautiful, pure, and worth celebrating.
4. It Symbolizes God’s Love for His People
Many scholars see the relationship as symbolic of God’s covenant love.
“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” (Song of Solomon 6:3)
The intimacy points to the deep love God has for Israel and, in the New Testament view, Christ’s love for the church.
5. It Highlights the Beauty of Marriage
The poetry celebrates marriage as God’s design.
“You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.” (Song of Solomon 4:7)
The affirmation shows the joy and dignity of marriage.
6. It Is Read During Passover in Jewish Tradition
In Jewish customs, the Song of Solomon is read during Passover, symbolizing God’s love and redemption. It connects the story of Israel’s rescue with love and covenant faithfulness.
7. Nature Imagery Is Central
The book is filled with references to gardens, vineyards, and animals, showing love as part of God’s creation.
“My beloved has gone down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to browse in the gardens and to gather lilies.” (Song of Solomon 6:2)
8. It Has a Dialogue Style
The book is written as a series of conversations between the bride, the groom, and sometimes others, like the “daughters of Jerusalem.”
“Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you: Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.” (Song of Solomon 8:4)
9. It Shows the Strength of Love
Love is described as powerful, even stronger than death.
“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death.” (Song of Solomon 8:6)
10. It Points to Christ and the Church
Christians often read the book as a picture of Christ’s love for His bride, the Church. Paul echoes this in the New Testament.
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25)
The Song of Solomon provides a beautiful image of that covenant love.
Summary Table
Fact # | Key Theme | Example Verse |
---|---|---|
1 | Greatest Song | Song of Solomon 1:1 |
2 | Written by Solomon | 1 Kings 4:32 |
3 | Romantic Imagery | Song of Solomon 1:2 |
4 | God’s Love Symbolism | Song of Solomon 6:3 |
5 | Marriage Beauty | Song of Solomon 4:7 |
6 | Jewish Passover Reading | Tradition |
7 | Nature Imagery | Song of Solomon 6:2 |
8 | Dialogue Style | Song of Solomon 8:4 |
9 | Love’s Strength | Song of Solomon 8:6 |
10 | Christ and the Church | Ephesians 5:25 |