The Song of Solomon, as its Hebrew title indicates, is "the best of songs." In it we hear the
passionate melody of romantic love. But whose love is described? Is it a couple's love for each other, God's love for Israel or Christ's love for the church? This Old Testament book has fascinated and perplexed interpreters for centuries. They have felt uncomfortable-even embarrassed-when confronted with its strange and erotic imagery. Lloyd Carr, in this introduction and commentary to the Song of Solomon, explains the meaning of this ancient love story in a way that can be clearly grasped and applied. G. Lloyd Carr (Ph.D., Boston University) is professor of biblical and theological studies and chairman of the division of humanities at Gordon College in Massachusetts.