The “Song of songs,” i. e., the best or most excellent of songs. WHICH IS SOLOMON’S - literally, “to” or “for Solomon,” i. e., belonging to Solomon as its author or concerning him as its subject. In a title or inscription, the former interpretation is to be preferred.... [ Continue Reading ]
the prologue. - The Song commences with two stanzas in praise of the king (now absent) by a chorus of virgins belonging to the royal household. Expositors, Jewish and Christian, interpret the whole as spoken by the Church of the heavenly Bridegroom. Song of Solomon 1:2 LET HIM KISS ME - Christian... [ Continue Reading ]
This section is made by the Targumist and other Jewish interpreters to adumbrate the condition of Israel in the wilderness; by some Christian expositors, that of the Gentile Church on her first conversion. Song of Solomon 1:5 I AM BLACK ... - Dark-hued, as the tents of Kedar with their black goats’... [ Continue Reading ]
This and the next Song of Solomon 1:15-2 sections are regarded by ancient commentators (Jewish and Christian) as expressing “the love of espousals” Jeremiah 2:2 between the Holy One and His Church, first in the wilderness of the Exodus, and then in the wilderness of the world Ezekiel 20:35. Song of... [ Continue Reading ]