Hooglied: Hedendaagse paradigma vir romantiese verhoudings

Abstract

In this article it is argued that the Old Testament book Song of Songs can serve as a present-day paradigm for romantic relationships. Song of Songs is being viewed as a collection of love poems and songs where the romantic relationship between a man and a woman is in the focus. The authors discuss the so called “love triangle” which is to be found in Song of Songs. The challenge for correcting relationships with regards to reciprocity and equility in this relationship is also researched followed by the important (albeit absent in the text itself) acknowledgement of people’s own limitation and dependence on God. This article therefore deals with the roles of men and women in connection with love, the complexities of love and suggests nine consequences of Song of Songs for romantic relationships. The article ends with a short discussion on the adventure of love.