Clavis cantici, or, An exposition of the Song of Solomon

3. When a literal sense would obtrude some falsity on the Scripture, then such a Scripture is to be understood Allegorically; as when Christ said, Destroy this Temple, and I will build it up in three days; it is not to be understood of the material house, or Jewish Temple, because then Christ's word would not have had it's accomplishment; But Allegorically of his body: So, when Christ saith, Except a man eat his flesh, he shall not live, John, 6. 53. It cannot be understood literally, seeing all who have obtained life, did never eat his flesh in a carnal bodily way.

3. When a literal sense would obtrude some falsitie on the Scripture, then such a Scripture is to be understood Allegorically; as when Christ said, Destroy this Temple, and I will build it up in three dayes; it is not to be understood of the material house, or Jewish Temple, because then Christ's word would not have had it's accomplishment; But Allegorically of his body: So, when Christ saith, Except a man eat his flesh, he shall not live, Iohn, 6. 53. It cannot be understood literally, seing all who have obtained life, did never eat his flesh in a carnal bodily way.

4. Any Scripture is to be accounted Allegorical, when the literal sense agreeth not with other Scriptures, and is not repugnant to the analogy of Faith, or rules of right manners: As, when we are commanded to heap coals of fire upon the head of our enemy. Now, it were against the command of not avenging our selves, if literally and properly understood: It must therefore signify some other thing.

4. Any Scripture is to be accounted Allegorical, when the literal sense agreeth not with other Scriptures, and is not repugnant to the analogie of Faith, or rules of right manners: As, when we are commanded to heap coals of fire upon the head of our enemie. Now, it were against the command of not avenging our selves, if literally and properly understood: It must therefore signifie some other thing.