PREFACE. "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." See 2 Timothy iii, 16, 17: and this book of the Song of Solomon beautifully sets forth the blessed unity of Christ and the Church; and Solomon we know was a most blessed type of our Lord for wisdom and glory. I have long wished to see an explanation of many words in this book of Songs, that my children and young Christians might more fully understand and comprehend its true meaning; but never having seen any thing more than what I have found in Scott and Henry's Commentary, I have therefore endeavoured to write a few thoughts thereon, as the Lord has been pleased to help me, by way of paraphrase; and if this simple method shall but lead one soul nearer to Jesus, the writer will be amply satisfied, and the Lord shall have the praise. HUNTINGDON, JOHN WESTWOOD. SOLOMON'S SONG. CHAPTER I. Verse 1.-The Song of Songs, which is Solomon's. The name of Christ is indeed the " Song of Songs" to the Church, and has been in all ages of the world. This Song was penned by one who excelled all others in wisdom and wealth; and therefore was truly a type of Christ-the "Song of Songs." Verse 2.-Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth; for his love is better than wine. Here we find the Church absorbed in the love of him "who is the resurrection and the life" of his redeemed ones; "let him," says the Church, "kiss me with the kisses of his mouth;" or, in other words, manifest himself unto me as he does not unto the world, that my soul may cling to him as the "chiefest among ten thousand, and the altogether lovely," that my soul may eat and live for ever, for his love is better than wine. Verse 3-Because of the savour of thy good ointments, thy Name is as ointment poured forth; therefore do the Virgins love thee. The very name of Christ to the Church and to all believers is as ointment poured forth, and to the B |