NOTES for Sol 2:8-14

In both Jewish and Christian tradition, the Song of Songs is most often interpreted as an allegorical poem about the love between God and His people—Israel or the Church. It is sometimes said to be a song of love between God and the human soul. Although the literal understanding of the Song of Songs as a poem about human love remains valid, its symbolic meaning is what matters particularly in the Church's readings. Now, at the end of Advent, we read a passage in which the bride hears the bridegroom's voice. The soul hears the voice of God. And He calls her to awaken and arise. Wintertime—the time of waiting—is ending. The Lord is near. And the soul recognizes His voice, a voice that cannot be confused with any other.