Song of Solomon is romantic because it is a poetic celebration of marital love, desire, and covenant faithfulness between a man and a woman. While it expresses physical attraction and longing, it also portrays deep emotional and spiritual intimacy within God’s design for marriage.
The opening line sets the tone:
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is better than wine.”
(Song of Solomon 1:2)
This book does not avoid the realities of romantic desire. Instead, it places them within the proper context: exclusive, faithful love between a bride and a bridegroom. The mutual admiration and longing in the poetry affirm that romantic love is not shameful when it is grounded in commitment.
The language is symbolic and rich in imagery:
“You have dove’s eyes behind your veil… your lips are like a strand of scarlet… your two breasts are like two fawns.”
(Song of Solomon 4:1–5)
Though sensual, it is never obscene. The emphasis is on affection, beauty, joy, and mutual delight. The beloved is not objectified but cherished.
The book also contains repeated calls to purity:
“Do not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases.”
(Song of Solomon 2:7; 3:5; 8:4)
This reinforces that love and desire are to be awakened only in the right time, within the bounds of marriage. Song of Solomon presents love as powerful, sacred, and not to be misused.
Theologically, the book also serves as a picture of God’s covenant love for His people. While the primary meaning is literal romance, the faithful, pursuing love reflected here echoes God’s pursuit of Israel and Christ’s love for the Church.
“Many waters cannot quench love, nor can the floods drown it.”
(Song of Solomon 8:7)
Song of Solomon affirms that romantic love, when grounded in godliness and honor, is a gift from the Lord.
