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

so would she have him in all his dispensations making that manifest, and that (as it were) they may bear it engraven upon them, that he minds her; like that expression, Isa. 49. 14. I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands, whereby he expresseth his mindfulness of her, that he could look to nothing in all his works, but he saw (as it were) her name engraven thereupon; for, all his works express love to her. In sum, we conceive the words look to one, or both of these similitudes, or allusions: 1. In general, to men who had such respect to their Seals or Rings, that they wore them on their fingers, and carried them still about with them; Now, she would be carried about on his heart, and have him sympathizing with her in every thing that she meets with. 2. And more especially, it may allude to Aaron's Breastplate, whereby he did carry the names of the children of Israel on his heart, Exod. 28. 12, 29. which engraving is said to be like the engraving of a Signet, in which the High-priest was certainly a type of Christ: However, this is certain, that she would be established in her union with Christ, so that neither desertions on his part, nor backslidings on hers, might mar that; but that she might be fixed as to her union with him, and made to abide in him, as the impression ⟨p. 440⟩of a Seal is fixed upon the Wax, and made to abide in it. Obs. 1. True love to Christ, will be bold, pressing and importunate, in it's suits to him; It will not stand to seek any thing that may endear him to the soul, to have him as a brother, and to be worn upon his heart, &c. 2. Christ's heart and inside, is most heartsome to the believer, who hath had any discovery thereof made unto his soul; and true love can settle no where, till it get a lodging in his very heart, that is the proper resting-place of a believer, and that is the refreshing, which can make the weary to rest. 3. Love to Christ would not only be near him, but would be fixed and established in nearness with him. 4. A stayed, immovable condition, or frame of heart, in the enjoying of communion with Christ, is most desirable and profitable; and therefore, it is no marvel it be longed for. 5. There is no staying or settling of a believer, till he be admitted to dwell (as it were) in Christ's heart, that is, to dwell near him in the believing and enjoying of his love; all other grounds are wavering, but this is stable;