This research paper by Dónal Walsh, submitted to Dr. Richard Belcher for OT512 – Poets at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, argues that the Song of Songs uses royal imagery as an apologetic appeal to Solomon. Walsh contends that the book celebrates covenantal, monogamous love as true kingship and divine wisdom, contrasting it with Solomon’s idolatrous pursuit of power, wealth, and multiple wives.
Walsh begins by proposing that the Song functions through “subversive fulfillment”—an apologetic method that affirms legitimate human desires while exposing idolatrous distortions. The poem commends the beauty, strength, and intimacy Solomon sought through his royal grandeur, but redirects them toward godly love and covenant faithfulness. Through royal symbols like Solomon’s palanquin and the cedar imagery, the Song exalts ordinary marital fidelity above the false majesty of Solomon’s court, showing that real glory lies in exclusive love grounded in covenant.
The paper also contrasts Solomon’s splendor with his spiritual poverty. Passages such as Song 6:8–9 and 8:11–12 critique his vast harem and self-serving love, while the faithful lovers’ devotion reveals the wisdom he abandoned. Walsh concludes that the Song’s royal imagery ultimately points beyond Solomon to Christ—the true King and Bridegroom—who fulfills the ideal of faithful, covenantal love. Through Christ’s self-giving devotion, the poem’s vision of pure intimacy and divine glory finds its ultimate realization.
Course and semester: OT512 Poets — Spring 2018
