Song Of Songs (part 1) -- the Bible's semi-erotic playlist [183]

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Warning: We cover necessary and important topics about the marriage relationship and sex. We use frank language without being crude or crass. Our approach is biblical and wholesome, but not intended for singles — especially not for children.

We're starting a series to lay the groundwork for reading the Song of Songs with clarity. In this episode we discuss the title, authorship, and the book’s unique structure. We share why our approach may feel less traditional (it's really not), yet still honors Scripture and helps couples talk about covenant love and sex without forcing the text into a storyline it never claims to be. 

• why we call it Song of Songs rather than Song of Solomon 
• where the book sits in the Hebrew canon and why it is read at Passover 
• what Solomon’s name might signal without proving authorship 
• why Aramaic and historical clues suggest a later composition 
• how poetic devices and double entendre shape meaning and modesty 
• why a narrative plot creates confusion and why an anthology reading fits better 
• how seeing it as a romantic playlist helps couples study and discuss it together 

Join us at the annual Intimate Covenant Marriage Retreat. This year our theme is BELOVED - exploring love and romance in the Song of Songs.

For a deeper dive, here's a list recommended resources to expand your perspective and help in reading the Song of Songs:

• Allender, Dan B., and Tremper Longman III. God Loves Sex: An Honest Conversation about Sexual Desire and Holiness. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2014.
•  Alter, Robert, trans. Strong as Death Is Love: The Song of Songs, Ruth, Esther, Jonah, and Daniel: A Translation with Commentary. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2015. 
•  Longman III, Tremper. Song of Songs. New International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2001. 
•  Pope, Marvin H. Song of Songs: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. The Anchor Bible, vol. 7C. Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1977. 

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