Song of Solomon 7 and 8

The Maturing of the Marriage

In verses 1-9 of chapter 7, Solomon uses ________________ language in Hebrew poetry to describe his Shulamite wife.
Within the bounds of ____________ as God intended it, _____ is good and beautiful and there is nothing too __________ when speaking of physical love in the proper context.
As we consider the love-talk here in chapter 7, how much time has gone by since the wedding recorded in chapter 2? How can this be confirmed?
In chapter 8, what is the meaning of the words spoken by Solomon’s Shulamite wife in verses 1-3?
From verses 6-7 of chapter 8, list the characteristics of a close and godly love relationship.

In verses 1-9 of chapter 7, Solomon uses figurative language in Hebrew poetry to describe his beautiful Shulamite wife. The words of verse 5, for example, makes note of the majesty of Mount Carmel as it rises from the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, and the color of purple used to describe the Shulamite’s hair is a reference to her beauty and royal bearing.
Within the bounds of marriage as God intended it, sex is good and beautiful and there is nothing too sensual when speaking of physical love in the proper context.
Between Solomon’s courtship in chapter 2 and the marriage following recorded in chapter 3, at least a year has gone by when we read of the love-talk between husband and wife here in chapter 7. Notice that both events took place in the spring time. See 2:10-13 and 7:12.
In verses 1-3 of chapter 8, the words spoken by Solomon’s wife describe the desire that she had to be able to show her affection to Solomon publically as a sister to a brother. But this was quite impossible with all the demands of royalty and being queen.
Characteristics of a close and godly love relationship are described in verses 6-7 as:
a. A love that is as strong as death.
b. A love that is jealously protective.
c. A love that is backed by the power of God.
d. A love that cannot be quenched.
e. A love that money cannot buy.

Discuss how significantly the lessons and guidance given in the Song of Solomon confirm and affirm the Apostle Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5. Consider how Paul’s words in 7:6 place a great priority on prayer in the building and maintaining of a godly marriage relationship.

Is your marriage relationship characterized by intimacy, trust, affection, strength, faithfulness and purity? Is it built upon and dependent upon the power of God? Take a mutual accounting of your marriage relationship today. Commit your marriage anew to the Lord and remember the great gift of the spouse that God has given each of you.

“Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm. For love is as strong as death, jealously as cruel as the grave; its flames are flames of fire, a most vehement flame.” Song of Solomon 8:6