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

But, 3. Because it's dangerous, to leave men to coin what Expositions they please of such Scriptures, therefore as upon the one hand; it's absurd to cast all Doctrines from them, as unsolid; so upon the other hand, we would see, what may fix us in a solid exposition, and so what may be esteemed a well grounded Doctrine, drawn from such an Allegory.

But, 3. Because it's dangerous, to leave men to coyn what Expositions they please of such Scriptures, therefore as upon the one hand; it's absurd to cast all Doctrines from them, as unsolide; so upon the other hand, we would see, what may fix us in a solide exposition, and sowhat may be esteemed a well grounded Doctrine, drawn from such an Allegory.

I shall, in order to our help in this, name five rules, whereof the last is safest.

First, Some Allegories at the first view seem plain, and imprint their meaning on these that have the least capacity, that it may be known, at least, what in general they aim at; And therefore, such are left frequently in Scripture unexpounded, and are used to press most obvious truths, such is that of John, Matth. 3. 10. The axe is laid to the root of the tree; and he hath his fan in his hand, &c. The meaning whereof, is at first obvious to be a peremptory certification pressing present repentance: So is the Parable of of the marriage, Matth. 22. 1. which at first view, appears to be understood of espousing Believers to Christ as their husband: And so Christ's command to take up the cross, &c. These, as to their meaning, are obvious; and we think such is this Song in it's general series; the very reading of it seems to imprint, that Christ and his people must be taken up as the parties, and the love here spoken of, must be such, as is betwixt them; and though particular expressions be dark, thus far it is obvious.