Sunday, September 15 – Song of Solomon 7-8 – Additional Reading, The Adventist Home, Chapter 9, Patriarchs and Prophets, Chapter 58

1. How is the beauty of love depicted in Song of Solomon 7? Song of Solomon 7:1-9.

2. What is the significance of the phrase ‘love is as strong as death’ in Song of Solomon 8? Song of Solomon 8:6-7.

3. How does Song of Solomon 8 describe the security found in love? Song of Solomon 8:10.

Song of Solomon 7 and 8 present a powerful depiction of love, both in its romantic and spiritual dimensions. Chapter 7 describes the bride’s beauty and the groom’s admiration, using rich and sensuous language to celebrate the physical and emotional aspects of love. The language here is not just about physical appearance but also speaks to the emotional and spiritual connection between the lovers. This intimate relationship mirrors the deep and personal relationship that God desires to have with each of us. The beauty and joy found in human love reflect the beauty and joy in God’s love for us.

In Chapter 8, the focus shifts to the enduring nature of love. The declaration that “love is as strong as death” (8:6) speaks about true love’s unbreakable bond and eternal quality. This phrase signifies that just as death is inescapable and permanent, genuine love is unyielding and persistent, underscoring love’s resilience, ability to withstand any challenge, and role as a source of strength and security.

Furthermore, Song of Solomon 8:7 states, “Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it.” This vivid imagery reinforces the idea that true love is indomitable, enduring through all trials and adversities. It parallels the love of Christ for His church, a love that conquered even death itself. It reflects God’s unwavering love for us. Just as the bride and groom are passionately devoted to each other, God is passionately devoted to His people. This devotion is not romantic but rather deeply spiritual, offering us an example of the kind of love we are called to embody in our relationships with others.

In the broader spiritual sense, God’s love for us is the ultimate example of enduring love. As we meditate on Song of Solomon 7 and 8, we are reminded of God’s covenantal love for His people, a faithful, sacrificial, and eternal love. Just as the bride and groom in the Song of Solomon celebrate their love, we, too, are invited to celebrate and respond to God’s love with gratitude and faithfulness.

Practical application:

In our daily lives, we can apply the principles of enduring and selfless love by prioritizing our relationships and committing to love others as Christ loves us. This means being patient, kind, and forgiving, ensuring that our love is not based on fleeting emotions but on a deep, enduring commitment.

For married couples, this might involve setting aside regular time to connect and communicate, affirming each other’s strengths, and supporting each other through challenges. For parents, it means modeling love and respect in front of their children, teaching them through their actions what it means to love unconditionally. In our churches and communities, we can strive to be sources of encouragement and support, embodying the love of Christ in all our interactions.

My prayer today: “Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the beautiful depiction of love in Song of Solomon. Help us to understand and embrace the depth of Your love for us. May we reflect this love in our relationships, showing patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment. Strengthen our bonds with our loved ones and You so that our love may be as enduring and resilient as the love described in Your Word. Guide us to live out these principles daily, fostering selfless, sacrificial, and enduring love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.