I am my beloveds, and my beloved is mine...

I have enjoyed preparing for our evening series on the Song of Songs. I must admit that although I have read through the book, I never engaged my mind in the text and attempted to understand what this love poem is about. I thought in this post that I would tell you about three sources that I am using for preparation.

First, I am reading Tommy Nelson's The Book of Romance. This book does not attempt to be a line-by-line verse-by-verse analysis of the poem, however, it does develop good applications for the reader. I use Pastor Nelson's applications to help the members of the congregation move the text into their daily lives. I would recommend this book for high school or better yet adult singles. There are great insights into dating, courtship and early marriage.

The second text that I use is Solomon's Song of Love by Dr. Craig Glickman. It is like that of Nelson's, in that it works in the land of application. However, I would say its purpose is different. Whereas Nelson has great application for the adult single, Glickman appears to target the married couple that has lost the spark of romance. Married adults could use this book for devotions or joint study. (Hmmm, Maybe I should suggest such to Debbie?)

Finally I am using Song of Songs by Richard Hess. This is a part of the Baker Commentary on the Old Testament. This book dives into the language and meaning of the Song. I have truly benefited from Dr. Hess' work. It keeps the study honest.

In the weeks to come, I will give you some of my thoughts concerning the Song. However, as I close I will offer this teaser. I do not think Solomon wrote the Song. I think that it was written by a woman.

-Mark