Song of Solomon 2:1-17
Q.1. How did the Shulamite’s love grow for her beloved? How did Solomon express his care for her? – (Song.2:1-7)
The Shulamite described Solomon in glowing terms, placing him well above other men. He invited her into the most intimate activities of his life – He has brought me to his banquet hall, and his banner over me is love (Song.2:4). She was surrounded by his love and responded as any lovesick maiden would – Let his left hand be under my head and his right hand embrace me (Song.2:6). He in turn showed the utmost care to her wishes – I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or by the hinds of the field, that you do not arouse or awaken my love until she pleases (Song.2:7).
Q.2. How did the Shulamite woman compare Solomon with other men? How earnestly did he want to be with her? How much was she preoccupied with him? – (Song.2:8-17)
She described him with attributes she has observed in the animals in nature (Song.2:8-9). She was aware that she had captivated him, and that he was equally besotted with her (Song.2:9-13). He, likewise, expressed his desire to be alone with her – O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the secret place of the steep pathway, let me see your form, let me hear your voice; For your voice is sweet, and your form is lovely (Song.2:14). Her friends commented on her neglect of the vineyard, while she pursued her new-found love (Song.2:15). That’s what love can do. Her confidence in his love brought dreams of their consummation – My beloved is mine, and I am his; He pastures his flock among the lilies (Song.2:16 c.f. 2:17).