v1: In contrast to his sorrow in Ecclesiastes, Solomon penned a delightful song. The term "song of songs" indicates a superlative; this is the best song!

Whilst the primary meaning was as a genuine love poem, the faithful Jew would see the love between God and His beloved Israel. As Christians we see the love between Christ and His church.

(The division of verses varies between different Bible versions and commentators; some words are therefore attributed to different speakers.)

v2: The woman, unusually, initiates the dialogue, seeking physical expression of love. The words here speak of a kiss of tenderness and affection, rather than of passion.

Christ's love preferred above material things. In contrast the kiss of Judas Iscariot was of deception and betrayal; here is the desire to know Him more, and to show Him our love.

v3: The (male) lover was of good reputation; we soon learn that he is the king.

The fragrance of the very name of Christ.

v4: His chambers; the place of secret communion with Christ; notice that the initiative here is God's, "He brought me."

The beloved's friends witness her affection for the king.

v5: See Ps 120.5, the tents of Kedar (the line of Ishmael), speaking of dirtiness, unworthiness.

v6: The beloved (Shulamite) is conscious of her own unfaithfulness, "my own vineyard I have neglected."

v7: The desire to serve, with the Saviour's flock, not even "the flocks of your friends."

v8-11: The first words of the Beloved, the Saviour. He describes the woman as the "most beautiful of women." Here God's grace changes the natural unrighteousness and unworthiness.

He instructs her to follow the steps of the godly, the other shepherds, Phil 3.17. He gives here a small task, her young goats, with godly oversight; once she proves faithful in this task, the Lord will give greater things.

The first description of the Shulamite is like a "mare harnessed," indicating a love that is disciplined. The use of ear-rings and jewels reveals a love that is made manifest.

v12-14: Delight in the presence of the Beloved, as they share a meal together. They exchange compliments (v15-2.3).

v15: Her eyes are beautiful; this is the first part of her he notices; here is where true beauty begins.

v16: The Beloved sees past her unworthiness (v5-7), for grace has provided atonement, and admires her.

v17: The Shulamite looks ahead to the time when they will share a house, built of strong cedar and fragrant fir.

The friends, of Daughters of Jerusalem, intervene in the conversations; "Let us hurry"(v3), "We rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine"(v4), "We will make you ear-rings of gold, studded with silver"(v11), after which they are silent; their words do commend both parties, but they do not share the deeper love of the Shulamite.