The Song of Solomon, also known as the Song of Songs, is a book in the Bible that uses poetic and highly symbolic language to explore the beauty, passion, and intimacy of love. It is a collection of love poems between a bride (the Shulammite woman) and her groom, celebrating love, desire, and the physical and emotional union of the couple. The language throughout the book is metaphorical and allegorical, designed to convey the depth and intensity of their love and attraction.

The verse in question, Song of Solomon 5:4, says, “My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my bowels were moved for him.” In the context of the book and the verse, the imagery is symbolic of longing and deep emotional connection, rather than a direct reference to specific sexual acts. The “hand by the hole of the door” symbolizes the groom’s attempt to be close to his beloved, expressing a desire for intimacy and connection. The phrase “my bowels were moved for him” reflects a deep stirring of love and affection.

The Bible uses the term “bowels” in various places to denote deep feelings or compassion (for example, Philemon 1:12, 1 John 3:17), consistent with the understanding of the term in ancient Hebrew culture, which associated the bowels with deep emotions.

Therefore, interpreting this verse as a reference to anal sex is not consistent with the literary, cultural, and theological context of the Song of Solomon. The book is a celebration of love within the framework of commitment and mutual affection, employing poetic imagery to express the emotional and physical aspects of love in a way that is beautiful and sacred.