Page 149 - The Poetic Books - Student Text

about sex…” “For many people, unfortunately, it has become a chosen habit. These are not unwilling
victims without any choice in the matter. It isn’t like the law of gravity. The desire is desired, embraced,
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indulged, elaborated, fantasized.” Solomon had given himself to his desires. He was living in a world
far beyond temptation. This is the way of any sin, as we indulge, bondage increases.

Central are Yahweh’s intentions for his people in marriage. The relationship between the woman and her
beloved is remarkable because it is the “flame of Yah” (8:6). He has created us to be bonded together
(Gen. 2:23-24). We stamp one another’s character in coming together sexually. The effect is permanent
whether for good or evil (1 Cor. 6:16). The two main characters in the Song know this and treasure the
principle of faithfulness. They refer to it in a number of ways: shepherding, lilies, garden, etc. The images
are beautiful and suggest the role faithfulness plays in bringing a great beauty to ordinary human life.

In the middle of the Song, Yahweh invites any reader to choose this great joy. “Eat, friends, and drink;
drink your fill of love (5:1).” At the end the shepherd concurs, inviting readers who “dwell in the gardens”
to add their voice in testimony to his (8:13). And finally, the woman turns to her beloved with welcoming
invitation to celebrate their marriage. May we make the same choices! May we encourage others to do
the same!

Overview of the Song of Songs

241 Dallas Willard, 165.
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