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

The question proposed by the daughters of Jerusalem, is, vers. 1. and it supposeth them to be convinced of Christ's worth, by the former discourse; and that they now are provoked, as being deeply in love with him, to desire and thirst after him and communion with him. Now as it depends upon the former discourse, and is the continuance thereof, it gives ground to observe, 1. That serious and faithful endeavours to gain these that are weak, are often followed with a blessing on these upon whom such pains are taken; for, now the daughters are engaged to seek him with the Bride: And this should notably encourage to the discharge of this duty. 2. As it's the duty of one to admonish and instruct another, so it's all mens duty to accept of admonition and instruction from others, and in the Lord to yield themselves thereunto, as these daughters do. 3. It makes christian-fellowship sweet and pleasant, where there is faithful tenderness upon the one-side, and submissive yielding on the other: A wise reprover upon an obedient ear, is an excellent jewel, even as an ear-ring ⟨p. 338⟩of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, Prov. 25. 11. 4. Yielding to instruction, and acknowledging of a conviction after a mistake (especially concerning Christ) is one of the first things, whereby desire of obtaining Christ doth appear; whereas such grumblings, as who made thee a reprover, or instructor? &c. evidence an unhumbled frame, out of case for any true desire after Christ. 4. This may give some directions, for Christians profitable conversing one with another: as, 1. A necessary and profitable subject, would be proposed to be spoken of; for, so much the matter of the daughters question imports. 2. It would be entertained by both sides when once tabled, and all diversions barred out, and the subject proposed, closely followed with answers suitable to it. 3. The end designed, would be practice and edification (for, so it's here, to seek him with them) and not a mere notional contemplation. 4. The manner would be grave and serious, suitable to the matter. 5. Compellations and expressions that are used, would be respective of each one to another. 6. These who •re weak would not shun to speak, and move questions, in these things that may edify them, as we may see in the daughters carriage here. 7. They who have knowledge would not despise these who are weak, but condescend unto them. 8.