"The Song of Songs is one of the most often interpreted books of the Bible. Through the ages interpreters have agreed that it is a highly poetic piece of literature, but their interpretations have differed fundamentally. After a centuries-long consensus that the Song must be interpreted allegorically as reflecting the relationship of God and humans and a shorter consensus that the Song must be interpreted literally as a composition of profane love lyrics, the discussion in recent years has once again become more controversial, as a growing number of exegetes have been more open to theological interpretations. This volume offers contributions that take different stands in this newly inflamed discussion. It thus enables readers to further think about the question and come to their own conclusions. "--Back cover.