1 Song of Songs 3:6~11 Rodney Fitzgerald Hughes, M.A., B.F.A. 4-15-2018 Abstract i. This paper approaches a more detailed reading of the Song of Songs 3:6~11 with an emphasis on the metaphysical aspects of this portion of the Song. I have attempted to exegete the iconography and symbolism found in the Song of Song by taking a closer look at the language and meaning behind particular words and phrases to uncover the possibility of a broader meaning within the Song’s imagery. ii. Looking closely at the symbolism behind fragrances, the inner altar, warriors, the king's carriage and finally the 'crowning' aspect. I have done so by applying the commentaries of Rashi, Gregory of Nyssa and Gitagovinda. By applying Exum's commentary to the Song, I have uncovered some additional clues that help me to work through the etymology of words and symbols contained within the imagery of King Solomon's litter. The author's commentary has to a greater degree allowed a more wholistic understanding of the specific meaning contained in the events, icons, and wisdom in this text. iii. In my conclusion, this portion of the Song as in many other parts drive me to believe there is much more than meets the eye, and that the profoundly complex puzzle of the Song still has much to be considered in order to fully understand its inclusion in biblical canon. Being a perfumer, the opening lines to verses 3:6 “Who is that coming up from the desert? Like a palm column of smoke, spewing out myrrh and frankincense, all sorts of merchant dust” is visually like the fragrant spirits rising from my perfumer's organ. It gives me the sense that these sacred and revered resins play some significant role in the arrival of Solomon's litter. They certainly had played a major role in the allegorical birth of Christ when the three wise men offered up these precious gifts. 1 2 Rashi offers this anecdotal observation: “Perfumed with myrrh---the cloud of incense which would rise straight up from the inner altar.” 1 Lavabre, M. (1990). Aromatics and Perfumes in History/ Aromatic Medicine in Egypt. In Aromatherapy Workbook (pp. 3-5). Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. 2 Lavabre, M. (1990). Essential Oils in Botanical Families. In Aromatherapy Workbook (pp. 71-72). Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.