Tuesday, May 7
Many have seen a “return to Eden” theme in the Song of Solomon. Though the couple described is not the first man and woman, the poem calls to mind the earliest garden. God’s plan that they be “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24, 25) is portrayed throughout in delicate metaphors and symbols.
How does the Song of Solomon present a commitment to mutuality in the intimate life of the married couple? Song of Solomon 4:7-5:1. How is Paul’s instruction of 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 similar?
Solomon invites her, “Come with me” (Song of Solomon 4:8). His bride responds. Later she invites him, “Let my beloved come into his garden” (Song of Solomon 4:16). He responds (Song of Solomon 5:1). Scripture here teaches there is to be no force or manipulation in this intimate setting. Into this relationship both partners freely and lovingly enter. “My garden” is “his garden”.
“Solomon” and “Shulamith” share names that are derivatives of the Hebrew shalom, “peace”, or “wholeness”. Their admiration is mutual (Song of Solomon 4:1-5, 5:10-16). The balance in their relationship is evidenced even in the poetic style of paired lines and verses. The covenant expression “My beloved is mine, and I am his” (Song of Solomon 2:16) echoes the language of Eden, “This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh” (Genesis 2:23).
How does the description of the marital union as “knowing” enrich our understanding of our relationship with God? Genesis 4:1, 25; 1 Samuel 1:19; Luke 1:34; John 17:3; 1 Corinthians 8:3.
The Bible uses know for the intimate union of husband and wife. In this loving “knowledge”, the most hidden inner depths of their beings are offered to the other. Not only two bodies but also two hearts are joined in “one flesh”. Know also describes the relationship between individuals and God. For the discerning Christian the unique and tender knowledge of marriage, with its companionship, commitment, and unbounded delight, provides a profound insight into the most sublime and holy mystery ever, the union of Christ and the church.
