How to Read the Book of Song of Solomon (and Actually Understand It)
Matt · April 8, 2026
The Song of Solomon — also called Song of Songs — is one of the most surprising books in the Bible. It's a collection of love poetry between a man and a woman, rich with romantic imagery and longing. Read it as a celebration of human love within marriage, and as a picture of the deep love God has for his people.
What Is the Song of Solomon About?
At its core, the Song of Solomon is a dialogue between two lovers — traditionally understood as King Solomon and a young woman (the Shulammite). The book celebrates physical and emotional intimacy within the covenant of marriage. There's no shortage of vivid, poetic language: gardens, vineyards, perfume, and longing looks all appear throughout.
Many readers are surprised to find this kind of writing in Scripture. But it's there for a reason. The Bible doesn't shy away from the goodness of human love and marriage — and the Song of Solomon is the most direct celebration of it in all of Scripture.
There are also two layers of meaning most readers recognize:
- Literal: a beautiful poem about romantic love and marriage, affirming that human intimacy is a gift from God
- Allegorical: a picture of the relationship between God and Israel (in Jewish tradition) or Christ and the Church (in Christian tradition)
You don't have to choose one. Most scholars and pastors embrace both.
Tips for Reading Song of Solomon
Slow down and read it like poetry. The Song of Solomon isn't a narrative with a plot — it's lyrical, impressionistic, and meant to be felt more than analyzed. Don't rush through it searching for a lesson. Let the images wash over you.
Pay attention to who is speaking. The text shifts between the woman, the man, and a chorus of companions (the "daughters of Jerusalem"). Some Bibles label these sections to help you follow along. If yours doesn't, look for context clues in the pronouns and tone.
Don't overthink the imagery. Comparing a woman's hair to a flock of goats or her teeth to a row of sheep sounds strange to modern ears. This was beautiful, specific poetry in its cultural context. The point isn't the literal image — it's the intensity and devotion behind it.
Hold the literal and allegorical together. If you're reading through the whole Bible in a year, the Song of Solomon fits naturally into the wisdom literature section alongside Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. As you read, consider what this picture of faithful, devoted love might say about how God relates to his people.
Use a study Bible or commentary for the hard parts. Some passages are dense or culturally specific. A short note from a trusted study Bible can unlock what the original readers would have understood immediately.
If you're using a structured reading plan like Bible In A Year, you'll encounter the Song of Solomon as part of a broader sweep through the wisdom books. That context — paired with Proverbs' practical wisdom and Job's wrestling with suffering — makes the Song's celebration of love feel even more grounded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Song of Solomon meant to be taken literally?
Yes — and allegorically. Most scholars and church traditions throughout history have read it as both a celebration of real human love in marriage and a metaphor for God's covenant love. You don't have to pick one interpretation over the other.
Why is such romantic poetry in the Bible?
Because God created human love and intimacy as something good. The Song of Solomon affirms that marriage, desire, and relational devotion are part of his design — not things to be ashamed of. It belongs in Scripture precisely because love matters so deeply in the human experience.
How long does it take to read the Song of Solomon?
It's only 8 chapters, so you can read through the entire book in about 20–30 minutes. It's worth reading in a single sitting to feel the arc of the poetry. Then read it more slowly the second time.