Old Testament · Poetry

Song of Solomon

Love poetry, unembarrassed. Desire, delight, and the ache of waiting.

Author: Attributed to Solomon
Written: Date debated
Genre: Poetry
Length: 8 chapters · 117 verses

What Song of Solomon is about

The Song opens with the beloved's passionate longing for the king's kisses and companionship. She describes herself as 'dark but lovely,' darkened by the sun from working in the vineyards. The lovers exchange mutual admiration, and the chorus of Jerusalem's daughters serves as interlocutor.

Attributed to Solomon, the Song represents a unique genre in the biblical canon—a love poem without explicit theological instruction. Jewish tradition read it allegorically as Yahweh's love for Israel; Christians as Christ's love for the Church. The 'dark but lovely' statement may reflect social stratification based on sun exposure.

Key themes

Love Desire Beauty Covenant

Where to start in Song of Solomon

Song of Solomon 1 · The Language of Love Song of Solomon 2 · The Rose and the Lily Song of Solomon 4 · You Are Beautiful Song of Solomon 8 · Strong as Death

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All 8 chapters

Song of Solomon

1 The Language of Love The Bible doesn't shy away from romantic passion. This poem celebrates it — unflinching, unapologetic, and beautiful. 2 The Rose and the Lily I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. Love speaks in flowers and seasons — arise, my darling, for winter is past. 3 Searching at Night By night on my bed I sought the one my soul loves. She searches the city streets, frantic, until she finds him. Love can't rest. 4 You Are Beautiful You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you. A garden locked, a spring sealed — the language of desire and exclusivity. 5 The Closed Door I opened for my beloved, but he had turned and gone. The lovers miss each other — and the ache of absence fuels the search. 6 Where Has He Gone? My beloved has gone down to his garden. I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine. Reunion after the agony of separation. 7 The Dance How beautiful your sandaled feet, O noble daughter. The beloved is described from feet to head — admiration without shame. 8 Strong as Death Set me as a seal upon your heart. Love is strong as death, jealousy fierce as the grave. Many waters cannot quench love.

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