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

This kind Bridegroom proceeds in the commendation of his Bride, vers. 8, 9. and shows the rich excellency that is in her, by considering her several ways, whereby she is preferable to what is most excellent: And then in the following verses, he confirms this by a twofold proof; and lastly, vers. 13. closeth the Chapter with a kind invitation, whereby, as it were, by a new proof of his love, he puts the commendation given her, out of doubt.

This kind Bridegroom proceeds in the commendation of his Bride, vers. 8, 9. and shews the rich excellency that is in her, by considering her several wayes, whereby she is preferable to what is most excellent: And then in the following verses, he confirms this by a twofold proof; and lastly, vers. 13. closeth the Chapter with a kind invitation, whereby, as it were, by a new proof of his love, he puts the commendation given her, out of doubt.

For understanding the 8. and 9. verses, we are to conceive, that by Daughters, Virgins, Queens, Concubines, by this Dove that is one, and the mother that bears, are not understood any party distinct from the Church or Bride, but the same Bride diversly considered, taking-in first the Church as visible, which is beautiful in her Ordinances, external profession and order; for, she is the mother that bears the daughters (who are the daughters of Jerusalem) and that is said to be seen; both which expressions hold forth this, and accordingly mother and daughters have hitherto been ⟨p. 358⟩understood in this Song, Chap. 3. 4, 5. Secondly, and especially, the Church as invisible, and the real believers who are members of the Church invisible; for, the scope here is to commend her graces; and if we consider the commendation preceding, and the proofs given, it will appear that they especially belong to her, and by Analogy agree to the visible Church, wherein she is comprehended.

For understanding the 8. and 9. verses, we are to conceive, that by Daughters, Virgins, Queens, Concubines, by this Dove that is one, and the mother that bears, are not understood any party distinct from the Church or Bride, but the same Bride diversly considered, taking-in first the Church as visible, which is beautiful in her Ordinances, external profession and order; for, she is the mother that bears the daughters (who are the daughters of Ierusalem) and that is said to be seen; both which expressions hold forth this, and accordingly mother and daughters have hitherto been