Answer
The title of Song of Songs is a translation of the Hebrew phrase shiyr hashiyrim. In English Bibles, it is alternatively titled Song of Solomon, drawn from the opening line: “The Song of Songs, which is Solomon’s” (Song of Solomon 1:1). The beautiful, lyrical poetry paints an enduring picture of godly marriage. In graceful lines and vivid imagery, Song of Solomon celebrates a union between a man and a woman marked by passion, love, commitment, and physical desire.
No one knows for sure who wrote the book Song of Songs. Solomon is traditionally attributed as the author, as suggested by the opening line and references to his name throughout the book (Song of Solomon 1:5; 3:7, 9, 11; 8:11–12). In 1 Kings 4:32, King Solomon’s body of writing is mentioned: “He composed some 3,000 proverbs and wrote 1,005 songs.” If the Song of Songs is among the 1,005 Solomon wrote, it would likely be his finest work. The author references Lebanon several times, possibly reflecting the peaceful relationship between Israel and other nations during King Solomon’s reign (see 1 Chronicles 22:9). If the wives and concubines of Song of Solomon 6:8 belong to Solomon, then the book was written fairly early in his reign (compare1 Kings 11:3).
Some contemporary scholars question the traditional authorship of Song of Songs, arguing for a date of writing later than Solomon’s time. In this view, the opening sentence doesn’t necessarily mean that the book was written by Solomon but it could have been written for Solomon. Dissent also exists on whether the book is a single poem or an anthology. Proponents of the anthology theory point to abrupt shifts in scenes, subjects, speakers and moods, suggesting a composite work. Those who reject this notion argue for a seamless composition without clear divisions.
While conclusive evidence that Solomon wrote the Song of Songs is lacking, the internal data leads us to conclude that he’s the likeliest author. There is no problem in subscribing to the traditional authorship based on the available information.
