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

Hence we may see, that Allegories are much more extensive, and comprehensive in their meaning and application, then Types (which cannot be extended further then some one thing) and so are much more Doctrinal, and concern both the faith and manners of Gods People much more, and may for that, more warrantably be applied, and made use of for these ends.

Hence we may see, that Allegories are much more extensive, and comprehensive in their meaning and application, then Types (which cannot be extended further then some one thing) and so are much more Doctrinal, and concern both the faith and manners of Gods People much more, and may for that, more warrantably be applyed, and made use of for these ends.

2. We say, that this Song is not Typical, as being made up of two Histories, to wit, Solomon's Marriage, and Christ's, nor doth it any way intend the comparing of these two together in the events, as to their facts or deeds: But it is Allegoric, not respecting Solomon, or his Marriage, but aiming to set out spiritual Mysteries in figurative expressions, in such a manner as may most effectuate that end, for enlightening the judgement, and moving of the affections, without any respect to that Story, or Fact of Solomon's: For,

2. We say, that this Song is not Typical, as being made up of two Histories, to wit, Solomon's Marriage, and Christ's, nor doth it any way intend the comparing of these two together in the events, as to their facts or deeds: But it is Allegorick, not respecting Solomon, or his Marriage, but aiming to set out spiritual Mysteries in figurative expressions, in such a manner as may most effectuat that end, for inlightning the judgement, and moving of the affections, without any respect to that Story, or Fact of Solomon's: For,

First, The strain and series of it, is clearly Allegoric, as the reading and considering of it will clear. 2. There can be no History to which it can relate, unto which the things spoken in this Song can be properly applied, as is said. 3. Solomon's Marriage was at least twenty years before this Song was written; See on Song 7. concerning the Tower of Lebanon, and compare it with