Song of Songs

The poem of love

The Song of Songs (Song of Solomon) is a collection of love poems between a man and a woman, full of images of gardens, vineyards and fragrances.

Historical context

Jews read it as an allegory of the love between God and Israel; Christians, between Christ and the Church or the soul. Today it is also read as a celebration of human love. It is read at Passover.

Explanation

Best-known passages

“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth” (ch. 1)
“My beloved is mine, and I am his” (ch. 2)
“Love is strong as death” (ch. 8)