Interpretive Images in the Songs of Songs: From Wedding Chariots to Bridal Chambers (Studies in the Humanities: Literature-Politics-Society)
Book Description
This scholarly exploration unveils a fresh perspective on one of the Bible's most enigmatic and poetic books through the lens of ancient Near Eastern wedding traditions. Steven C. Horine presents a compelling argument that the Song of Songs contains a carefully structured framework of bridal imagery, centered around the concept of the ancient bridal chamber, which serves as a key to unlocking the deeper meanings within this beloved text.
Drawing upon innovative literary methodology that bridges traditional biblical scholarship with contemporary understanding of metaphorical language, Horine demonstrates how wedding imagery creates an interpretive structure throughout the Song. His approach addresses longstanding challenges that scholars have faced when analyzing this highly metaphorical poetry, offering new tools for understanding its rich symbolic language.
The author develops what he terms a "poetics" of metaphor specifically designed to navigate the Song's unique literary landscape. This framework not only illuminates the central nuptial themes but also provides a foundation for interpreting the text's other significant imagery and symbols.
For readers seeking to deepen their understanding of biblical poetry and its spiritual dimensions, this work offers both rigorous scholarship and practical interpretive tools. The study reveals how ancient wedding customs and imagery can inform contemporary readers' appreciation of this timeless celebration of love and devotion, making accessible the profound spiritual truths embedded within the Song's metaphorical language.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 235 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Criticism, interpretation
- ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- ✓ Explore Critique littéraire
- ✓ Explore Métaphore dans la Bible
- ✓ Explore Critique, interprétation
- ✓ Explore Metaphor in the Bible
- ✓ Explore Bible, criticism, interpretation, etc., o. t. poetical books
- ✓ Explore Bible as literature
