Shir ha-Shirim XII: Part Four: Different Loves: Sefirah 9

According to the view of Rabbi Chinena, who said that it was uttered by the Red Sea, we interpret this verse, “Let Him kiss,” “Let the Divine Inspiration rest upon us and we will sing before Him many songs.” According to the view of Rabban Gamliel who said that the ministering angels said it, we interpret, “May He imparts to us of the kisses which He gave to His children.” On the view of Rabbi Meir, who says that it was said in the Tent of Assembly, we interpret, “May He send fire down to ice and receive His offerings.” On the view of Rabbi Yochanan, who said that it was said on Sinai, we interpret, “May He cause kisses to issue for us from His mouth.” Hence it is written, “Let Him kiss me with the kisses of His mouth.” (Shir HaShirim Rabbah 1.2:1, part three)

Red Sea: “Let the Divine Inspiration rest upon us and we will sing before Him many songs.” The Kiss is that of Divine Inspiration.

Ministering Angels: “May He imparts to us of the kisses which He gave to His children.” The kiss is the intense love God manifested for Israel, envied by the angels.

Tent of Assembly: “May He send fire down to us and receive His offerings.” The kiss is His active involvement in our Service.

Sinai: “May He cause kisses to issue for us from His mouth.” The Kiss is our desire for the intensity of Sinai.

Which kiss do we want?