John Gill Bible Commentary

Introduction

INTRODUCTION TO SONG OF SOLOMON 8 This chapter begins with an ardent wish of the church for a free and intimate converse with Christ; declaring what she would do to him, and for him, should she have such an interview with him, Sol 8:1; what familiarity should be between them, Sol 8:3; charging the daughters of Jerusalem not to give him any disturbance, Sol 8:4. Upon which they inquire who she was that was in such a posture they saw her in, Sol 8:5; when the church, instead of giving them an answer, says some things concerning her beloved, on whom they saw her leaning; and makes some requests to him for more nearness to him, and manifestations of his love to her; urged from the strength her love and affections to him, which was invincible, Sol 8:6. Next follows a speech of the church about her little sister; expressing a concern for her, and what she would do to her and with her, Sol 8:8; and the answer of the little sister, declaring what she, was, and what she enjoyed, Sol 8:10; then the words of the church again, concerning her husband's vineyard; the place, keepers, and profit of it, Sol 8:11. And the chapter, and with it the Song, is concluded with a request of Christ to the church, that he might hear her voice, Sol 8:13; and with a petition of hers to him, that he would come quickly to her, Sol 8:14.