The Bride: An Allegory Based on the Song of Solomon

by Rhonda Calhoun

Rhonda is an author of several books, including children evangelizing training, and speaks internationally focusing on the Song of Solomon, the Father heart of God, and the poor. In this book, she unveils the truths in the Song of Solomon in an easy-to-understand allegory, while maintaining Scriptural integrity. Foreword by Mike Bickle.

Genres: Christian

396 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5
I have been studying the Song of Solomon for two months now, with the help of Rhonda Calhoun's allegory and her devotional. This was an amazing journey with the one who loves me most (Jesus). I will never read the Song of Songs the same way again.

It's not the Bible, but it is a wonderful resource, especially for those struggling to love themselves or do not believe they are capable of being loved.

"Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned."

(Song of Solomon 8:7 NIV)

[Clement · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rhonda Calhoun's The Bride is a great allegorical story based on the Song of Solomon of the Bridegroom King's love for His bride and the cultivating of true selfless love in her for Him. Calhoun has amazing grasp of scripture and, I think the best part of the novel, is her interweaving of scripture from outside the Song of Solomon to enrich her narrative and provide additional commentary on the Song of Solomon. The book also helpfully provides references throughout to the exact scriptural references with endnotes at the back of the book. With that all said, I do have to honestly also say that I did struggle to read this book. I started it and, even though I was being spiritually enriched, I had to take a break and read something else for a little while before returning and finishing it. The prose was a little lacking at times and the dialogues just felt a bit unrealistic and cardboard at times, even though the narrative and dialogues contained deep spiritual truths. To combat this, I would recommend readers to listen to Mike Bickle's study on the Song of Solomon, available on his website, while reading The Bride. Also keep your Bible open to the Song of Solomon. It really helps to be studying the Song of Solomon while reading Calhoun's The Bride. Calhoun's scriptural cross-referencing are what make The Bride a worthwhile read. Also, I'd recommend checking out Hannah Hurnand's Hinds Feet In High Places, another beautiful allegorical novel based on the Song of Solomon, and read that book after or before Calhon's The Bride.

[Nina Fader · Rating 1 out of 5]

Finally done! It has never taken me so long to read a book! I highlighted some great truths, but the writing throughout was incredibly too flowery. The story was unnecessarily drawn out by at least 100 pages. Could’ve cut out some of the main character’s melodrama. The author’s creativity of the kingdom and use of characters in the allegory is the only thing that kept me trying to get through it. Props for weaving it all together.

[Deborah Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super love this book! I find regular rereading of it delights my soul.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most beautiful allegory of the Song of Solomon that I have ever read. It's hard to find in print but I was lucky that one of my favorite people in the whole world recommended it to me and I found it on Thriftbooks. She has been my mentor and a close friend. Thanks Jill for this one.

If you love Jesus, you will love this book.

[Naomi VS The World · Rating 5 out of 5]

I AM SO IN LOVE! I need more books like this in my life!! If you truly love Jesus and want intimacy with the Lord, this book, you have to read. Ladies, it is just an emotional book. I related to the main character throughout the entire novel. I felt as if Jesus was speaking directly to me. This book has made me laugh, smile, cry, and fell almost every emotion. I would encourage all women to read this book if you want to know Jesus on a super deep level. 10/10, I would read again lol!

[Missy Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bride was beautifully written and portrayed as a love affair with the greatest King that ever was, is and will be! This book brought song of Solomon alive to me and made me realize how beautiful my relationship is to the savior of the world. The adventure she went through, the obstacles she had to overcome, the love affair.... all wonderfully written and so deeply felt within my spirit. If you are looking to understand the bride and bridegroom relationship between Jesus and you, this is your book. It was a great read and when I need to feel that deep love of my King I reread this book and I am refreshed in his unending love for me!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

excellent journey through the book of song of songs

[Andrew N · Rating 5 out of 5]

still workin on this one. it's a hard read. i think especially for guys.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

[Candi Foster · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just couldn't get into it. Interesting idea for an allegory.