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

The second piece of work, mentioned, for the commendation of the Worker, is a Chariot, described at large vers 9, 10. For clearing of the words, we are to inquire concerning these three things. 1. It's Worker or Former. 2. The end for which it is framed. 3. Concerning this Chariot it self.

The author or maker thereof, is Solomon, and that King Solomon, that is Christ, as was cleared before, he is mentioned thrice under this name; but there is a gradation here that is observable. 1. He is called Solomon, vers. 7. 2. King Solomon, vers. 9. 3. King Solomon crowned, or, crowned King Solomon, vers. 11. The longer she speaks of Christ, and insists in mentioning his excellency, her thoughts draw the deeper, she sets him up the higher, and becomes warmer in her apprehensions, affections and expressions concerning him: Acquaintance with him, would make one speak eloquently of him; He that is the worker and former of this Chariot, is a most excellent King, it must needs then be a stately, royal piece of work.

2. There are two ends mentioned wherefore he makes it, 1. It's to himself, that is, for his own glory, and that thereby he may in a special way hold forth himself to be glorious, and that particularly in his grace; for, though he made all things for himself, yet is he said especially to manifest his glory in doing good ⟨p. 183⟩to his people; and what serves for the manifestation of his grace, is in a peculiar manner made for himself: So Isa. 43. 7. and 21; This people have I formed for my self (in a far other way than he formed other nations) they shall (in a singular way) show forth my praise, that is, the praise of his goodness, wherein his way was peculiar to them: And the paving of this Chariot with love, and appointing of it for the daughters of Jerusalem, doth confirm this also, that it's the praise of grace that especially shines in this piece of work. And so the second end, subordinate to the former, is in the end of vers. 10. in these words, for the daughters of Jerusalem, that is, for their good that are weak and far short of perfection; it's not only fitted for his glory, but also, it's fitted and confirmed to them, so as it may procure and bring about their good. Obs. 1. In the greatest pieces of Christ's workmanship he had mind of poor sinners yet unglorified, his delight was with them before the world was,