- As in Song of Songs 7, how should we understand the reference to the “brother”?
- Why should the young woman fear being despised (Song of Songs 8:1)? What do Song of Songs 8:1-2 suggest as to social mores and family strictures?
- What is the symbolism of the apple tree in Song of Songs 8:5? And, why is mention made of the lover’s mother?
- What was the importance of the seal, especially the personal seal (Song of Songs 8:6) in ancient times? (See Genesis 38:18-26 for a somewhat related context.)
- God’s name appears only once in the entire book, not by itself but as part of the phrase Shalhevet-Yah (Song of Songs 8:6) The modern JPS translation does not acknowledge it, rendering the phrase “a blazing flame.” But, actually it is “God’s searing flame” — what does it communicate here?
- Is Song of Songs 8:8 to be understood literally or symbolically? Is “sister” meant to be taken literally (any more than “brother”)?
- In Song of Songs 8:8-10 are the “brothers” biological brothers? Are the men threatening force to acquire the object of their desire? Are they concerned about her chastity? Is she concerned about her chastity? Indeed does she describe herself as chaste?
- In Song of Songs 8:11-12 what is the import of the note of defiance to Solomon (Song of Songs 8:11)? What is the meaning of the references to “thousand” and”two hundred”? Who is paying this to whom and for what?
- In Song of Songs 8:13, how do you understand the dialogue between the lovers and why does she reject his request?
