Beyond Today Bible Commentary: Song of Solomon

Beyond Today Bible Commentary

Intro, title and authorship, date, problem of polygamy

A difficult book to comprehend, unity and poetic framework

Natural interpretations

Shepherd hypothesis, structure of the book as a whole

Alternative two-character analysis, other character interpretations

Symbolic interpretation, Jewish and Christian allegorical interpretations

Allegorical examples, evaluation of allegorical approach

Typological, cult-mythical approaches to the Song

Determining the purpose of the book, a spiritual meaning and a right view of human sexuality

Song as didactic wisdom literature, love as "the flame of the Lord"

Tutorial in love, illuminating the relationship ideal, bibliography

Longing and romance

Developing love in spring

Troubled nights of separation and happy reunion

Wedding and consummation

Troubled night of separation and happy reunion

Love renewed in spring

The nature of love, reminiscences and anticipation