THE BOOK OF THE SONG OF SOLOMON IN MEETER.  
WITH Some Brief Observations from the Text, something pleasant, but more profitable to the Unprejudiced Reader, who loves the knowledge of God, and hath his heart inflamed with the Love of the Lord Jesus.  
By T. S. Who loveth, and could willingly serve any that Loves our Lord Jesus in Sincerity.  
LONDON, Printed for Francis Smith, at the Sign of the Elephant and Castle near the Royal Exchange in Cornhill, 1676.   

THE PREFACE To the READER.  
Courteous Reader,  
THis is the first time ever I came forth  
To public view: I now was very loath  
To have appeared: but being often pressed  
By several Friends, at last at their request,  
What by these Poems, was my first intention  
I find (by theirs) doth meet with its prevention;  
For now and then according to my leisure,  
I thought to read, what I had writ with pleasure;  
For to delight myself it was my end,  
When first of all these Poems I had penned;  
But further here and there, now they must go,  
For why? 'tis providence, doth order it so:  
They must abroad, though entertainment kind  
I do not say that they shall always find;  
For why? I know it is the common guise  
Of worldly wisemen others to despise  
That are unlearned, although they have their learning  
From Christ alone, whereby they have discerning  
'Twixt things that differ: and for all the schools  
Of humane learning, men are still but fools  
Till Christ be learned: nothing do they know  
And knowing nothing nothing can they do,  
As they should do it: answering God's command;  
May then the worldly wise man understand  
That he's the wise man that obeys the Lord,  
And with his laws, his life doth still accord;  
Such promised are to know the father's mind,  
When worldly wisemen seek, and cannot find:  
Yet do I not in this i'th' least despise  
Learning itself: nor yet the learned-wise;  
I hope no wise man then will take offence  
For unto both I give due reverence:  
Let none that reads these lines the same despise,  
B'cause in high flourishes I do not rise;  
For it's a task a deal beyond my pains  
To soar aloft in such affecting strains  
As some that curious are would have: but I  
Am well content much lower for to lie.  
And sigh the subject of this my discourse  
It is divine: what can I make it worse,  
Because I do not paint it in that dress  
Of Eloquence? what can it be the less  
Sacred for that? such eloquence but feedeth  
The outward our: none such as that is needed  
For of itself it's garnished with such glory  
To parallel the same there wants a story;  
The highest strains, the most sublimest wit  
Must lowr their topsayl, and bow down to it.  
The stile, the matter, method, and the words  
Are high and accurate, the world affords  
No Volumes that with it may once compare,  
It is more excellent than all they are:  
Here mayst thou see that great transcendent love  
Christ bears his Church; which doth surmount above  
All other carnal earthly love as far  
As th' sun ascends above the lowest Star;  
The great delight and pleasure he takes in  
The souls that are purged throughly from their sin:  
Here mayest thou see also the special care  
He takes of them, each good thing to prepare,  
To fill their hearts with comforts and with joy,  
And bear them up in depths of misery,  
And when  done what they have here to do,  
He will bestow upon them heaven too;  
Here mayst thou see also how ready still  
Each gracious soul is daily to fulfil  
What Christ commands: for love doth them constrain  
He loves them first, they love him back again:  
They love him so, they'll both suffer and do  
Whatever thing he's pleased to call them to:  
Here mayst thou see the presence of their Lord,  
The greatest comforts to their souls afford:  
But if at any time away he's gone,  
The soul that wants him then doth sigh and groan:  
And seeks, and sues, and never is at rest,  
Till with his presence he again is blest;  
Here mayst thou see how that Christ's lovely spouse,  
Doth sleep and slug sometimes, till be do rouse,  
And raise her up: she doth a slumber catch  
But raised by Christ; she stands upon her watch:  
Here see also the love that truly ties  
A soul to Christ, it lives and never dies:  
And how with earnestness such pray to be  
With Jesus Christ in full felicity.  
Read soberly, and ponder what thou readest  
Digest it well, and then thou'lt find it feeds  
Thy inner man, but if thou foolishly  
Look on these Poems with a wanton eye,  
To please and satisfy a carnal mind  
No good unto thy soul than thou shalt find;  
Take heed, and prove neither profane nor lose,  
Bringing these Poems into great abuse:  
Of wanton love they treat not in the least,  
But of that love divine; which Christ is pleased  
In signs, in tips, and figures to make known,  
Then read full soberly; or else read none:  
Well, I have done, I am exposed unto  
The censures of them all; these papers view,  
If I have erred in any thing, then know  
That every son of Adam may do so:  
Since Adam fell, infallibility  
Is found in none, much less not found in me.  
If any one that reads some profit gains,  
Then am I well rewarded for my pains.  
If any scoff or jeer, go on and spare not,  
For some men's scoffs and jeers know that I care not,  
I am not raised by any flatteries,  
Nor yet cast down because some do not prise  
What I have writ: no, there is nothing less  
Shall trouble me, for still I am  
T S.   

The Reader is Desired to Correct these several Escapes in Printing this Book.  
IN the Preface p. 2. l. 20. for is needed r. it needeth. In the Book p. 1. l. 3. after Gods put in good. p. 6. l. 15. for are r. me. p. 7. l. 1. for the r. though. ib. l. 19 for the r. thy. p. 10. l. 29. in marg. for comes r. comers. p. 19 l. 1. for fairest r. fairest. l. 12. for beauty r. beauty. l. 25. for mad'st r. made. p. 21. l. 2. for love r. low. l. 17. r. it. p. 13. in the marg. l. 19 for his r. her. p. 15. l. 5. in the marg. for refrain r. restrain. p. 25. l. 39 for treasure r. treasury. p. 28. l. 16. put in this heats, p. 31 l. 17. put in it. p. 32. l. 2. for mayst r. must. p. 36. l. 16. for whether r. whither. l. 34. after purposes r. of ours. p. 38. l. 18. for single r. sinful. p. 39 l. 18. for ere r. art. p. 40. l. 20. for account r accounts. p. 43. l. 31. for satisfy r. testify. p. 46. l. 5. for clearest r. clearer. p. 47. l. 29. for thee r. unto thee. l. 30. for from thee r. from thee. p. 49. l. 2. for so r. to. l. 22. for stops r. stoops. p. 50. l. 21. for God r. Gods. p. 52. l. 1. for divers r. drivers. l. 35. for bear r. bare. l. 39 for not r. out. p. 54. l. 13. for heavy r. hairy. l. 29. for do r. to. p. 57 l. 18. for from r. fro. p. 58. l. 4. for excel r. exceeds. p. 61. l. 4. for best. r. breast. l. 19 for would r. could. l. 31. for of falsehood r. or falsehood.  
Also take notice, That whereas in many places on Jona there is no distinction between that part of the history, and what is observed from it, therefore to avoid confusion know, that where you find it thus marked l—, there the Observation gins, and where it is again thus marked l— there it ends.   


CHAPTER I.  

1  
THe Song of Songs (most excellent)  
Of Solomon, who by the guide  
Of God's spirit doth represent  
Christ and his Church, the lovely bride.   

2  

a Saints do desire to enjoy more simptomes, seals and assurances of the love of jesus Christ.  Oh let him come and me embrace,  
And with his mouth let him me kiss,  
For my soul's longing for the grace  
That flows from that sweet spirit of his:  

b In adversity and prosperity the fruition of Christ is better than the choicest, chiefest of all things beside  For why thy loves are better far  
And night and day make me more glad,  
Then all the choicest wines that are  
Or were, or ever shall be had.   

3  

c The graces of Christ, and the anointings of his holy spirit, are sweet, precious, pure and powerful in working.  Thine ointments Lord all of the best  
Are sweeter than the choice perfume,  
Their virtue heals the soul oppressed,  
That sin & Satan would consume.  

d His blood poured out and life spilt upon the cross:  Thou wast poured out like ointment pure  
Thou emptied waste, me for to fill;  

e A fountain set open for sin and uncleanness Zach. 13.1. a well of water springing up to life everlasting  Yet thou art full, and shalt endure  
An overflowing fountain still.  

f The love of Christ constrains souls to be obedient.  Thy grace diffused, the virgins move,  
Thy love shed forth 's the only cause,  
The pure in heart and life thee love,  

g True love is made manifest, in keeping Christ's precepts.  And loving thee they keep thy laws.   

4  

h The Church of Christ sensible of her own and members nothingness, weakness, backwardness, and remissness, prays for assistance, and promises a good improvement.  Draw me and mine (to goodness slack)  
Persuade's to come to thee in haste,  
Put forth thy power when we draw back  
We'll run and follow thee full fast.  

i There is a special intimacy between Christ and saints: he will show them his secret, which angels desire to peep into, Psal. 25.14.  The Royal king, just, strong, and wise  
Not only outward kindness shows,  
But all his chamber secrecies  
To them that fear him he'll disclose.  

k Christ is the object of a Christians joy: a divine contemplation of Christ, begets divine affection unto Christ.  Much more than wine thy love we mind  
With joy most pure it glads our heart,  
More we think on thee more we find,  
Thou by the upright loved art.   

5  

l A sensibleness of deformity works deep humility, ingenious confession.  I now deformed am, and black,  
As black as kedars tents by name,  
Afflictions great, and sin (alack)  
Hath brought me to confess the same.   


m The saints are beautiful through grace; without spot through Christ, yet their glory is within.  Yet daughters of Jerusalem,  
Like to the curtains bright and fair,  
Which once surrounded Solomon,  
I comely am through Christ as they're.   

6  

n The Church's discouloring last not always: 'tis but for a moment in wrath the Lord hides his face, therefore divide not, despise not enemies, despair not friends.  With evil eye behold me not,  
Though beauty mine be turned to slain,  
The suns hot beams hath caused this spot  
And time will wipe it off again.   


o Friends degenerate, do often if not always turn the most implacable enemies.  My mother's children angry were  
To keep the vineyards (when they stepped  
Aside;) they made me (oh severe)  

p The Church's devastation gives cause of sad complaint.  Therefore my vineyard is not kept.   

7  

q A fence of ignorance and weakness drives to Christ, for strength and direction.  Oh tell me where thy flock doth feed  
Thou whom my soul doth dearly love,  

r Christ is a Christians sweetest shade in the hottest persecution.  Where they lie down i'th' days of dread  
When scorching heat their faith doth prove.  

s Christ's sheep are careful to follow him John 10. and fearful of false teachers and corrupt and false assemblies.  For fear lest I should go astray,  
After the flocks (to turn aside)  
Of thy companions in the way  
Thy faithful followers never tried.   

8  

t They that abase themselves shall be exalted and they that ask shall receive directions, Mat. 7.7.  If thou know not that art so fair  
My word and spirit shall thee guide,  

u New converts are as meek lambs Joh. 10. gathered into flocks, must keep from those folds Christ hath not appointed.  Thy tender kids them take with care,  
And feed the shepherd's tents beside.   


w We must follow the faith and good works of those before us, and make their pattern our example.  Go thy way forth, get out with speed  
From all false ways and worships go,  
To th' footsteps of the flock take heed,  
Conform thy ways, their ways unto.   

9  

x The Church of Christ is orderly powerful and speedy in executing the good pleasure of Christ her head.  Much like to Pharaohs chariot horses  
My love, my dear, I thee compare  
Who goodly are, and keep their courses  
Through me thou'rt as choice as they are.   

10  

y A conversation becoming the Gospel is the Church's duty and outward beauty Phi. 1.19. 1 Pet. 3.3, 4.  Thy cheeks with jewels thou dost deck  
A sight most comely to behold,  

z The Church observing Christ's appointments, is not enthralled thereby, but in glorious freedom.  And thou hast round about thy neck  
Chains, that are wrought of purest gold.   

11  

a The three and yet but one, are engaged by promise to make the Church very glorious through divers precious spiritual Gospel endowments.  Both father, son, and holy Ghost  
Will make for thee borders of gold,  
With studs of silver; things that most  
Will make thee glorious to behold.   

12  

b True grace is not idle, cannot be hid but is poured out like the sweetest perfume or most precious ointment; in our solemn approaches to God; to the pleasing of him greatly: and the good and benefit of our brethren.  That I may please the King full well  
When at his table he sits there,  
My spikenard shall send forth its smell  
In love, in mercy, praise and prayer.   

13  
My well-beloved is to me  
(For mine he is, and one we are)  

c Nothing can be more sweet than Christ to that soul that once tasted how gracious the Lord is.  More sweet than bags of myrrh can be  
Or precious gums or things most rare.   


d The greatest troubles worst of times and things, cannot draw a Christians love from Christ, but still in his heart he hath his lodging place.  In darksome night, in time of fear  
When others leave him, yet will I  
'Twixt my breasts lay him, because there  
Within my breast he loves to lie.   

14  

e The fruit received from Christ as redeemer is both abundant and full; durable, and lasting.  Much like the clustering camphire-tree  
In Engedi her vineyards grows,  
My well-beloved's such to me  
Virtue from that more from him flows.   

15  

f A Christians holiness is his chiefest comeliness, and Christ doth ever praise and delight in that grace which himself bestows.  thou'rt fair my love thy comeliness  
Doth far exceed the brightest day,  
Doves eyes thou hast: not wantonness  
But chastity they do bewray:   

16  

g A soul enriched decked and beautified with grace from Christ cannot but be affected with praise and delight in him, who is the fountain and wellspring of all grace.  Behold beloved thou art fair  
Yea and most pleasant to be seen  
With thine no beauty may compare  

h Where Christ can joins in spiritual union great increase follows thereon.  Also our fruitful bed is green.   

17  

i The Church of Christ which is the house of the living God is both firm and stable, built upon the rock: and cannot be moved to decay.  Our glorious house is very strong,  
The beams thereof sweet Cedar tree  
The rafters fir: both lasting long  
And stand it shall, though shaken be.    

Chapter II.  

1  
I 
k Christ describes his glorious excellency, which the worldling despises, but is owned and honoured by the godly.  Am the rose in Sharon grows,  
Decking each heart that doth me wear  
And lily white, pure sweet and bright  

l The heart of the humble and lowly person is a fit habitation for Christ.  In lowest valleys am found there.   

2  

m The way to heaven is a thorny way: sin affliction and wicked men are always as thorns in the sides of the godly.  As lilies fair, when found they are  
Among the thorns by thorns are rend:  
Yet them exceeds as lilies weeds,  
In beauty, bravery, sweetness, sent.   

So my love she: must galled be  
With vexing thorns which her surround,  

n The spouse and true Church of Christ excels all other assemblies in grace here; and shall exceed them in glory hereafter.  Yet she's alone: and like her none  
Amongst the daughters can be found.   

3  

o Nor angels nor men comparable to Christ, he is the only one that surpasses all other.  Him I love best, excels the rest  
Of all the sons; though ne'er so good,  
As apples do; the fruits that grow  
Upon the wild trees of the wood.   


p Christ is a Christians sweet refreshment, when most weary and heavy loaden.  When I am spent: what great content  
I take to sit me down and rest,  
Under the shade, which he hath made  
For weary souls, and sore oppressed:   


q Every true believer by a living faith doth pluck from this tree of life both remission of sin, sanctifying grace, inward peace, and the comforts of the holy Ghost flow in continually.  How various are the fruits so rare  
That on this living tree still grows?  
Their virtue's much; there is none such,  
The sweetness he that tasteth knows.   

4  

r Christ in and through his holy appointments affords gracious souls sweet refreshment, thereby filling the heart of every true believer with joy and comfort.  He did me lead my foul to feed  
With his fine dainties, choice and rare  
Into the place: of sweetest grace  
Where purest joys and comforts are.   


s Christ doth guide preserve and encourage all his servants in what he requires at their hands, though they meet with never so many difficulties in the performance.  For to protect: and me direct  
His banner o'er me is displayed  
When strength abates it animates,  
None fight under it are dismayed.   

5  

t The comforts of Christ are full, satisfying, and yield the greatest refreshment to the thirsty soul, broken in heart, and languishing spirit.  Let thy comforts be my supports,  
With flagons full me overflow,  
With apples stay me from decay,  
That on the tree of life do grow.  

u The glorious excellencies, transcendent beauty, and unparallelled love of Christ, doth so deeply strike and wound the heart of a Christian, that nothing can cure it but the enjoyment and possession of Christ himself.  Why, there is need, my heart doth bleed  
Thy love it gave my heart the wound,  
And wounded I lovesick do lie,  
To cure me none else can be found:   

6  

w The dear embraces of Christ, his vehement affection and almighty power is the preservation and restoration of souls, when sinking, or fallen into the lowest state.  His left hand's laid under my head,  
To bear it up each day and hour;  
And he doth cover me all over,  
With his right hand of love and power:   

7  

x Each gracious soul will be very careful of displeasing Christ, and use all lawfal means to prevent the sins of others and stir them up to their duty.  Church members all; both great & small  
I charge you (as you'll answer me)  
By roes and hinds: or any kinds  
Of things besides, that lovely be;   

That my dear love ye do not move,  
Provoke, stir up, nor's spirit grieve  
By evil ways: nor till he please  
Awake him not but still believe.   

8  

y Christ's sheep know his voice from a strangers, they hear and follow him.  Lo he appears: my soul now hears  
The voice of my beloved one,  

z When Christ will save his people and destroy his and their enemies, he will be both speedy therein and successful.  Lo he doth come my foes to doom,  
And judge them to perdition.   

He leaps in haste: and skips full fast  
o'er hills and mountains in his way  
When he will save: no let he'll have  
Nor enemy to make him stay:   

9  

a The Lord Christ is both ready and present in time of trouble.  No roe can be more swift than he,  
No hart though young can run so fast;  

b He ways to be gracious.  He stands and calls behind our stalls  
Knocking to let him in at last.   


c And takes a strict survey of all things done whether good or evil.  Oh do not sin: for he looks in  
As at a window he espies  
What we are doing, while he is showing  
Himself so plain to open eyes.   

10  

d The best of Saints have an aptness to and sometimes are found upon the bed of security.  My best beloved, with mercy moved  
Seeing me sluggish and secure,  
And in my mind to sin inclined  
(A thing his grace cannot endure);   


e The voice of Christ, and his gracious call doth strongly move a sleepy soul to arise from sinful rest to have communion with himself.  He calls and cries to me, arise  
My love my fair one come away,  
Forsake thy rest: vain things detest,  
Make haste and have no longer stay.   

11  

f No affliction nor presecution should keep from Christ for they are but for a moment, of no continuance.  The winter's blast is gone and passed,  
Tempestuous storms no more arise,  
God's wrathful shours no more he pours  
On friends but on his enemies:   

12  

g The hearts of men are like barren earth, till planted by the spirit, and sown with grace, than they are fruitful.  the flowers appear show summer's near  

h There is a time to mourn & a time to rejoice, Saints know it, and in due season warble forth God's praises.  Each chirping bird doth fit and sing,  
The turtles voice doth make a noise,  
All which bespeak a glorious spring.   

13  
The figtree puts forth her green shoots,  
Her unripe figs are sweetened well  
The vines also do dangling grow  
With grapes that give forth a good smell.   

Each token says that summer days,  
Are hasting on without delay,  

i though men be unwilling to come, yet Christ is not weary to call to them over and over by many moving arguments, to come to him.  Wherefore arise: from worldly toys  
My love my fair one come away.   

14  

k Christ's spouse is both harmless, and pure neither without presecution, nor then without a hiding place in God.  Now oh my dove, what can thee move  
Sith thou art in the secret stairs,  
And rocky cliffs: free from the drifts  
And storms of foes, and other fears.   

The barbarous foes do thee enclose,  
And thou liest hid in secret place  

l Faith & prayer the best practice, & very requisite in time of affliction.  Yet let me hear thy voice in prayer:  

m Good works joined with prayer and a conversation becoming the Gospel is acceptable to, (and lovely in the eye of) the Lord Jesus.  And see the beauty of thy face.   

For there's no creature hath a feature  
Like thine, so comely to behold  
Thy praying voice: it hath a noise  
More sweet, then by words can be told.   

15  

n Those that hurt the Church by fraud or force, doctrine or manners, aught to be reproved, punished.  The foxes take: that spoil do make  
Upon our vines: for every tree  

o The weak and infirm in Christ's Church must be cared for, for they are equal with others in his love and Favour.  Young grapes do bear: and with great care  
Such tender plants preserved must be.   

16  

p Every true Christian is given up wholly to Christ, and by faith makes Christ his own.  Mine my love is: and I am his  
My all on him I will bestow,  

q Christ is much delighted, with the sweet and beautifying graces of his people.  He rests and feeds: not among weeds  
But where the purest lilies grow.   

17  

r Till Christ the sun of glory, break in upon a soul it sits in darkness and shadows of death.  Whilst it is night: and till the light  
Of day do break, & it grow clear  
Whilst shady clouds, the brightness shrouds  
Till they disperse and thou appear.   


s The true Church begs Christ's speedy and special presence to support her under all her pressures, and to put an end to all differences.  Be like a roe, young hart or do  
On mountains where divisions are,  
Turn dearest one, and be thou known  
Of me to take a special care.    

CHAP. III.  

1  

t Carnal security will give Christ cause to withdraw and hid himself.  WHen I had lost the present sight  

u True love is always working and puts thee upon to seek for Christ when withdrawn.  Of him whom my soul loveth best  
I sought him in the darksome night  
His absence gave me such unrest.  
I sought him, and must seek him still  
be found at first he seldom will.   

2  

x That soul that makes Christ her beloved, will rise and rouse up to seek him without delay.  I will arise up from my ease  
And seek my love in every street, 
w Fallen Christians are not easily restored, and those that do desert Christ do not quickly see the light of his countenance shining upon them.   

y Christ is not always found in those places that men seek him in, yet must we not leave to seek him in any of his appointments.  From thence I'll pass to the broadways  
To seek him where the assemblies meet.  
I sought him there, to please my mind  
But seeking there, him could not find.   

3  
Thus restless I still wand'ring was  

z Sometimes gracious souls wanting Christ do inquire for him of those that know not how to direct to him.  Till by the watchmen I was found,  
As they along the City pass  
Tending their watch walking the round,  
To whom I said, (for grace did move)  
Saw ye him whom my soul doth love.   

4  

a We must leave men and their devices and wait upon the Lord in his own ways, and he will soon discover & manifest himself gracious to us.  No answer good they gave to me  
Direction from them I had none  
How my soul satisfied should be  
But when I left them, and was gone  
Away from them a little time,  
I found him that was wholly mine.  

b We must hold what we have of Christ, stand fast in that liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free.  When I of him fast hold had caught,  
Again I would not let him go,  

c A Christian desires to enjoy Christ in the inner man mostly: and to see his go in his sanctuary also.  Till my late-found dear love was brought  
My mother's dwelling house into,  
And till my souls most secret place  
Were lodging chambers for his grace.   

5  

* Every true Christian hath a care lest he should offend Christ, and will use his best endeavour that others also do neither provoke nor displease him.  Ye daughters of Jerusalem  
I charge you have a special care,  
(By roes and hinds and each of them  
Or other things that lovely are)  
That ye wake not by wicked ways  
Nor stir my love until he please.   

6  

d Those souls delivered from a lost and bewildered estate by Christ their redeemer, must needs rise up heaven-ward in fervency of spirit and dear affection.  What glorious one, oh who is this  
Like smoky pillars doth ascend  
Out of the desert wilderness  
Sure 'tis my love, my dove, my friend,  

e The prayers praises and all the spiritual sacrifices of Saints are exceeding sweet when perfumed by the intercession of Christ the mediator.  Who's all persumd (as it is meet)  
With myrrh and frankincense so sweet.   

7  

f Each true believer beds his beloved in his bosom which is Christ Jesus.  Behold the bed, that bed of his  
The great and mighty Solomon,  
Each gracious heart a lodging is  
For him to take his rest upon,  

g A Christians privilege is to be kept by Christ, and he as a good soldier doth resist the adversary.  There valiant Israelites and stout  
Compass this princely bed about.   

8  

h God's people have many enemies to withstand are always in danger to be surprised, and therefore have need of skilfulness and courage.  As valiant so they many are  
They all hold swords within their hand,  
Skilful likewise expect in war  
Their enemies for to withstand,  
Each hath his sword on's thigh outright  
Because of terrors in the night.   

9  
The Chariot which king Solomon  
Did make was glorious to behold,   

10  

i The Church of Christ excels in glory at the present, through Christ's righteousness and a life without rebuke and blame in the world, they have a right to all now, for all is theirs, and shall be set in full and actual possession hereafter of all those good things, which God hath laid up in store for them that love him.  The wood the choice in Lebanon  
Silver were pillars, and pure Gold  
Did bottom it, things of great worth  
The Church's glory to let forth.   

A purple veil of crimson red  
(Such bloody veils do hid our sin)  
Was for a covering o'er it spread,  
And flames of love pave it within;  
This is ordained only for them  
The daughters of Jerusalem.   

11  

k The faithful are called out of sin, self and world, that so they may have the full enjoyment of Jesus Christ.  O Zions daughters go ye forth  
Leave sin and carnal vanities  
And see the king of precious worth  
Whose sight will fill and glad your eyes:  

l Every gracious soul will put the crown upon the head of Christ, by a willing subjection unto him, suffering him to reign and rule over him, subduing his lusts, and overthrowing all that is at enmity against Christ within him.  Behold the king of great renown  
Hath on his head his glorious crown.   


m True believers are Christ's mother and dear relations, their holy walking as it is their glory and an honour to the Gospel, so it is as a crown put upon the head of Christ.  Who by his mother crowned was  

n When souls are spiritually conjoined to Christ, and espoused by faith and obedience, great are heavenly joys at that espousal.  On his heart-gladding marriage day  
Now all his foes cry out alas  
But sing ye friends that him obey;  
For with the sceptre of his power  
His, and your foes he will devour.    

CHAP. IU.  

1  
BEhold thou'rt fair my love behold thou'rt fair  

a The Church of Christ is knowing, chaste, comely and pure, and so keeps herself that he may delight and take pleasure in her.  Doves eyes thou hast lie veiled within thy locks  

b Saint's graces within, where lies most of their strength, and a holy well ordered comely conversation without makes them shine in the eyes of all beholders.  And to complete thy beauty, thou hast hair  
Resembles well the smooth and glistering flocks  
Of goats, that from mount-gilead do appear  
And grazing in due order are found there.   

2  
Thy teeth the instruments, (which food prepare)  
Are like a flock of sheep, new clipped and shorn  

c Christ's flocks or followers are fruitful, his branches bearing, sterrility and barrenness inconsistent with that spirit that makes them grow and increase in all the increasings of God.  As they from washing come, white clean they are  
And purged from filthiness, thee to adorn  
With glorious beauty, and amongst them there  
None barren is, but each one twins doth bear.   

3  

d Our services done to God, are all acceptable, perfect and complete, through the blood of Christ.  Like to twisted thread of Scarlet red  
Such are thy lips; the portals of thy prayers  

e Gracious speeches and words is comely for Christians, a holy language is their ornament, and others edification.  And praises too, thy speech is garnished  
With grace and sweetness, fitting gracious ears;  

f It is required of Christians, and it is the property of all truly such to be humble, chaste and modest.  Thy blushing temples hid with hairy fleeces  
Like a pomegranate are, when cut in pieces:   

4  

g That Christian that draws life from Christ by faith, stands stiffly against all opposition, conquers all comes, latches every fiery dart of the devil, submits to Christ's will and perseveres in his ways.  Thy neck the glorious emblem of thy power  
Is stretched out to each beholder's eye  
Resembling well the high and lofty tower  
Of David, builded for an armoury  
Whereon a thousand bucklers fixed are  
All shields of mighty men prepared for war   

5  

h The Church of Christ hath within herself like a tender mother both feeders and feeding, both pure and wholesome, to nourish and strengthen, all that are born in her.  Like to the twins of young and tender roes  
Which among lilies feed & take repast  
Not among filthy weeds, sure like to those  
Are thy two holy breasts, wherewith thou hast  
Nourished thy children, like a tender mother  
That they in strength of grace excel all other.   

6  

i Christians, till the everlasting day swallow up their darkness must expect bitter as well as sweet, through many tribulations they must enter in the kingdom of God.  Now will I get me to the mountain high  
Of bitter myrrh, and hills of frankincense  
Till break of day and till the morning sky  
Expel the dark and shady clouds from thence;  

k Christ will never leave nor forsake his in their forlorn state, but will protect them, preserve them, provide for them until he bring them to glory.  There shall my gracious presence thee attend  
Until thy sorrows in sweet joy shall end.   

7  

l Justification by faith hides all sin, we are beautiful in him who is perfect beauty, holy, beloved and accepted and through him who is holiness, love, and accepted of the father.  Nothing offensive no imperfect stain  
My eye sees on thee (though some haply are)  
My righteous covering always stands between  
Thy worst and me therefore I do declare  
Thou art all fair my love and there is not  
A blemish found on thee, nor any spot.   

8  

m Christians when called to have communion with Christ willingly leave their greatest, goodliest highest honours, profits, pleasures for Christ, and in losing all with and for him do gain much.  Now come with me from Lebanon my spouse  
Amana, Hermon, Shenirs hills refrain,  
For they that follow me can never lose  
But in their losses will be found their gain.  

n He that walks with Christ hath his filthiness cleansed, his Lion-like cruel nature changed, neither will he have any more fellowship with the workers in (or works of) darkness.  From th' Lion's dens and Leopards mountains flee  
With sin, and sinful bruits, canst thou agree.   

9  

o The grace of the holy spirit working powerfully in and upon the hearts of God's people carrying them out to a holy submission to Christ's will and obedience to his commands doth beget in Christ unspeakable unparaled affection.  My sister spouse, oh what great influence  
Hath thy eye on me like a piercing dart,  
Thy faith or love, or both hath taken hence  
From me to thee my ravished vanquished heart,  
Besides, the chains that have thy neck surrounded  
Makes me complain my heart with love is wounded.   

10  

p Christ doth extol and magnify the spiritual beauty of his Church, and her love to him is more acceptable than the choicest of things.  My sister spouse thy love is wondrous fair  
And in my eye beyond all imitation  
The choicest wines, that ever were or are  
Like thy love are not in my estimation:  

q Saints have received of the anointing from the father, who by diffusion into all actions spiritual & civil makes them have a fragrant and sweet savour every where.  Thy ointments smells so odoriferous,  
The sweetest spice is not so sweet as those   

11  

r The words of the Lord in the mouths of his servants, are not only pure, precious, and sweet in themselves, but also pleasing to God and profitable to them that receive them.  Thy lips drop like an honey comb my spouse,  
Each open ear thy gracious words are filling  
Beneath thy tongue honey and milk it flows  
Much like a fountain pleasantly distiling.  

s Christ's righteousness is the saints raiment, and spiritual clothing, who by faith puts it on, is of incomparable redolency, admirable sweetness.  The garments pure that I have put thee on  
Smells sweeter than the scent of Labanon.   

12  

t The Church of Christ is as a garden fruitful, and delectable, beset with enemies on each side, yet encompassed with the power and presence of Christ, so that they cannot waste nor spoil it.  Thou art a garden both for fruit and flower  
My sister spouse a garden well enclosed  
And fenced with walls of my almighty power  
T'keep thee from foes, to which thou art exposed.  

u In the Church of Christ there doth always rise up a fresh-spring of spiritual life and grace from Christ the head, to water and refresh it.  A spring shut up a fountain sealed, casting  
Up waters in thee to life everlasting.   

13  

w Those plants set by Christ, fenced by his power, and watered by his grace, cannot be barren but bring forth much fruit, by which the father is glorified here, and they with the father and son glorified hereafter.  Thy plants an orchard of pomegranates are  
Thy branches are a paradise of pleasure  
All sorts of fruits most excellent and rare  
Are found in thee without compare and measure.  
Camphire with spikenard, oh what fruits are growing  
There where my grace is always overflowing.   

14  

x Christ out of his fullness, doth communicate freely, abundantly, and in divers kinds, his graces, to his Church, so that nothing can be wanting for his edification and comfort.  There's spikenard sweet and cordial saffron too  
Myrrh, aloes, calamus and cinnamon,  
All trees of frankincense in it do grow  
Each thing it hath a precious operation;  
Her spices choice for virtue & for worth  
Nor man nor angels tongue can set them forth.   

15  
A garden full of fountains, precious pure,  

y Christ the living fountain set open for sin and uncleanness, is to be found in his Church, with grace in abundance, ready and willing to supply, succour, support and comfort every soul that waits for him.  A well of living waters springing still  
Each sinful sickly silthy soul to cure  
And all are called to wash and drink that will:  
And as the streams do flow from Lebanon  
So flows all streams of grace from Christ alone.   

16  

z A gracious soul doth earnestly desire and much long after the powerful workings of the spirit of Christ, producing its divers, yet all glorious effects in the soul.  Breath holy spirit on my garden now  
That every spicy flower may bloom and spread  

a Nor will expect solid sound comfort before some Gospel break, and spiritual castings down.  For as the northwind thou makest me to bow  
And with thy southern gales lifts up my head  

b From Christ we have all, of his fullness we receive, we must therefore return him his own, for it is not ours or that from as, but his own, and that which proceeds from himself that is acceptable to him.  Come my beloved I have thee invited  
And eat the fruit in which thou art delighted.    

CHAP. V.  

1  

a The prayers of saints are very prevailing, Christ is prone and ready to hear; no sooner can we call but we have our answer.  NOw I am come my spouse  
Into my garden gay  
Thy call it did me rouse  
I hear when thou dost pray;  
It doth suffice  

b Christ doth enable and empower his people to labour and bring forth pious, pure, precious fruits of faith, love, holiness; self-denial and suffering for his sake, all very pleasant unto him.  I gathered have: that which I gave my myrrh with spice.  

c No comb of wantingness, weakness, imperfection in grace or duties, can harm the saints while there is the honey of sweet sincerity and truth of grace to be found.  Oh with what great delight  
My honey comb I eat  
And feed my appetite  
With sucking honey sweet.  
And though the best  
May fail, or fall: yet sincere, all  
Of them are blest.  

d As wine and milk are to us, so the pure, holy, sincere services of saints are unto Christ.  My wine and milk together  
Being my delightful fare  
I took and drunk; for neither  
Of them that I can spare.  

e Christ prepares his table, sets on his spiritual daintys, invites his friends; and feasts their souls with his fat things in great abundance.  Sure it none offends  
That ye eat such: with me drink much  
That are my friends.   

2  

f A gracious soul is ever sensible of its security and will ingenuously confess it.  I sleep and slug; which makes  
Me sorely to complain,  

g Finds an opposition between flesh & spirit the part regenerate and wakeful heart is always working upward towards Christ; though lust and the part unregenerate would refrain.  But yet my heart it wakes  
Though lust would it restrain.  

h Christ's sheep both know and hear the voice of Christ which doth powerfully awaken and rouse up the slothful sleepy soul.  His voice doth move  
Who knocks and says, clear thou my ways  
My spotless dove.   


i When Christ begs and sues for admission he gives power to open, it is then the wisdom and duty of every Christian to let him in.  Oh let me enter in  
And lodge within thy breast  
Ingratitude's thy sin  
Receive me as thy guest.  

k The more and greater things Christ hath suffered for us, the greater obligation lies upon us to love and serve him, and the greater is the sin to refuse and neglect him.  For my head's filled  
With dews of wet, and vapours great  
Cold night doth yield.   

3  

l Man is apt to frame vain excuses, and cast in small obstructions to prevent the kindly entertainment of Christ, though the chiefest of ten thousand, and none so worthy to be received.  I am disrobed quite,  
And may not take the cold  
My feet are washen white  
If I rise they'll be foulld;  
I'll take my ease  
Sad are the shifts: when fleshly drifts  
Are flesh to please.   

4  

m When Christ puts forth his spiritual power, he breaks in sunder the strongest bars, sets wide open the closest heart, and makes way that the king of glory may enter in.  My wellbeloved put  
His hand in at the door  
And opened what I shut  
That kept him out before.  

n The more a soul feels and discerns Christ in his most inward workings, the more it is inflamed with love to Christ, less love to self, and grief for former failings.  (O rare effect)  
My bowels move: for my dear love  
And my neglect.   

5  

o Where there is true repentance, that soul is rouzd up from sleepy security, and is found readily and graciously acting the thing that is good.  When I did rise and stir  
To open to my dear  
My hands did drop with myrrh  
That on the lock was there  
who ' f grace partake  
Those souls will never want endeavour  
When once awake.   

6  

p Christ being slighted and neglected withdraws his spiritual presence and so leaves a soul in darkness and misery.  I opened now in huste  
It was no time to stay,  
But now the time is passed  
My lover's gone away;  
A just reward  
For he that sued: and begged and wooed  
Had no regard.   


q A refusing the sweet and gracious words of Christ, when seriously considered will break the heart with sorrow.  But when I heard him speak  
My soul did melt away  
That heart with grief must break  
That ever said him nay.  

r Those that stop their ears when Christ calls unto them, they shall cry and call (yea his own dear ones for a time) and not be heard.  I sought in vain  
My prayers and cries, he still denys  
To entertain.   

7  
The watchmen they are found  
Of whom I looked for aid  
They smote me and my wound  
By them was deeper made:  
Each one of those  
That did pretend: to be my friend  
are turned my foes.   


t Sinful security breaks the Church's staves of beauty and bands; robs her both of her glory and defence, exposes to great shame and misery.  The keepers of the walls  
They took my vail away,  
What mischief them befalls  
That err and go astray  
Alack alack  
How soon our fame, is turned to shame  
When we draw back.   

8  

u Under spiritual desertions, there is want of consolation, 'tis a mercy to have the faithful to pray for us, and our duty to call in for their help.  Jerus'lems daughters ye  
That loving be and kind  
Who seek in the right way  
That you my love may find;  

w Love and zeal warm the heart, the prayers of the faithful are fervent, and so avail much.  I charge ye when  
Your hearts desire, ascends in fire  
To mind me then.   


x A gracious soul languishing in love to Christ, grieves for former neglect, longs to be sensible of reconciliation to Christ, calls and cries to the faithful to present in prayer its sad condition to him.  Oh tell him be ye sure  
That I am sick of love  
My heart cannot endure  
Unless his bowels move;  
For though I were  
To slumber bend, and negligent  
My heart's sincere.   

9  

y The more a Christian knows of Christ the more he desires and longs to know him, and therefore inquires of those that have experience what beauty, loveliness, excellency, glory, and worth, they see. know and have found to be in him.  Why what is thy belov'd  
More than another is  
That thou so much art moved  
For this absence of his?  
Why dost so charge?  
Is he of worth, then set thou forth  
His praise at large.   

10  

z Those that are affected with Christ spiritual glory; and have tasted the sweetness that is in him; are fittest to describe it to others, and will fully and freely communicate what they know, feel and are affected with; that others may love and admire him as themselves.  My well-beloved then  
Which ravished hath my heart  
Chief of ten thousand men  
Is glorious in each part;  
A mixture fine  
Of red and white, to breed delight  
In him doth shine.   

11  
His head whereon he wears  
And's glistering crown doth hold  
In glory it appears  
Much like the finest gold:  
His locks together  
Are bushy set: as black as jet  
Or ravens feather.   

12  

a Christ is meek, humble, holy, perfectly pure, who cannot look on sin with the least allowance, teaching us hereby, that as he is so should we be in this world.  As are the eyes of doves  
In springs that take delight  
So are his eyes who loves  
No evil in his sight;  
His gentle eyes  
With milk are wet: and even set  
Impartiall-wife.   

13  

b The face of Christ is transcendantly comely, blessed are all such who live in the light of his countenance, and whose souls are sweetened and delighted with his presence.  His cheeks much like the bowers  
Or beds of spices are  
The sweetest of all flowers  
With his may not compare;  

c The words of Christ have a distasteful relish to the misled sinner, but to the obedient believer are pure & precious, being hid in his heart, preserves it from all rottenness, corruption, sin and filth whatsoever.  His lips distils  
Sweet smelling myrrh: sure none can err  
Whose heart it fills.   

14  

d Christ is always ready abundantly to supply the wants of his people, and to help them by his power in time of need.  His hands like to gold rings  
Set with a precious stone  
The choicest of good things  
He freely gives his own:  

e Christ's Compassions are great to all, and his heart is most affectionately set upon his own humble and holy ones.  His belly much  
Like ivory bright: with saphires dight  
And heart is such.   

15  

f Christ by his almighty power hath overcome and vanquished all for the good and sakes of his, and they shall vanquish and overcome all that opposes them by the same power of the Lord Jesus.  His legs his feet and thighs  
Like marble pillars are,  
Whereon such strength there lies  
None may with it compare;  
And more behold,  
His feet are set: in sockets neat  
Of finest gold.   


g The spiritual glory of Christ surpasses all glory; beheld only by those whose eyes are opened to look into those abstruse and hidden things of the Gospel.  His countenance whereon  
To look doth dim the eye  
Is like to lebanon  
Sweet, glorious, comely, high.  
It doth excel  
The cedars tall: and also all  
That tongue can tell.   

16  

h Every word proceeding from the mouth of Christ was a word of grace peace and comfort, and sweeter than the honey comb.  Most gracious are his words  
That from his mouth distils,  
Great comfort it affords  
Each gracious heart it fills.  

i Christ in every part absolutely perfect, or the rare and excellent perfection of Christ, is all that a gracious soul can desire, ravishing the heart of a true believer.  my whole desires  
He is alone: and there is none  
My heart so fires.    

CHAP. VI  

1  

a A powerful and plain description of Christ drawn out to the life in truth and reality is of great efficacy, or Christ powerfully preached to the hearts and consciences of men is of great force to draw them out to inquire and seek after him.  WHere is he gone, fairest of women  
Where's thy beloved turned aside  
Do not deny, our company  
In seeking him who is our guide.   

2  

b Those that have found Christ themselves, are very free and willing to instruct those that are desirous to seek after him.  My dear love he, is gone to see  

c Christ is much delighted in Christian assemblies, where their persons are holy, their services are sweet and spicy.  The gardens where he doth delight  
And much rejoice, i'th' beds of spice  
And gathering the lilies white.   

3  

d Every true Christian is resigned and wholly given up to Christ, by faith makes Christ his own with all his benefits.  Mine my love is: and I am his  
(What comfort from this union flows)  

e The Lord Christ takes great pleasure in the sweet pure and lovely graces which he himself bestows upon his people.  He rests and feeds: not among weeds  
But where the purest lilies grows.   

4  

f Great is the glory riches & honour of the Church of Jesus Christ.  Thy beauty bright: is like (in sight)  
To royal Tirzah of great fame  
Thy comeliness is nothing less  
Than is the fair Jerusalem.  

g The Church of Christ in right order, and daily observing the same, thereby is and becomes a terror to all that hate her on every side.  Thou terrifi'st thine enemies  
And makest them full sore afraid  
As armed men: do others when  
Their banners be in field displayed.   

5  

h Jesus Christ doth yield up himself as one captivated by, and to the faith of every true believer.  Now turn aside: my lovely bride  
For with thy eyes I'm vanquished quite  
And conquered I: do wounded lie  
With that which is my heart's delight.  

i See, chapter 4th ver. 1.  Thy well-set hair: that mad'st thee fair  
Most fitly I may it compare  
Unto the flocks: that on the rocks  
And mounts of Gilead, grazing are.   

6  

k See chap. 4. ver. 2.  Thy teeth appear, like sheep when theyare  
New washed and clipped and even shorn  
'Mongst whom there is no barrenness  
For each one of them twins have born.   

7  

l See chap. 4. ver. 3.  Thy temples bright: (are like insight)  
To a pomegranate cut in pieces  
And thou dost cover them all over  
Within thy locks and hairy fleeces.   

8  
The queens that be: eaten full sixty  
And fourscore Concubines in count  
The virgins fine: that with them join  
All numbers far they do furmount.   

9  

m Believers though of never so many persuasions, yet are all one in Christ Jesus, should labour after oneness amongst themselves, and preserve the unity of the spirtt in the bond of peace.  But my dear love and spotless dove  
She is but one the choice alone  
Of her dear mother and there's no other  
That did for her in travail groan.   


n The spiritual glory of Christ's Church bespeaks her blessedness, is worthy of admiration and praise from all others.  When they beheld her that excelled  
Both daughter's queens and concubines  
Themselves did raise to bless and praise  
Her, that so much in glory shines.   

10  

o The Church of Christ in all states hath a spiritual brightness, sometimes more dim, sometimes more clear, and shines more and more unto the perfect day.  Oh who is she that we do see  
Like to the morning looking bright  
Fair as the moon which light full soon  
Expels the darkness of the night.   

The sun so clear doth not appear  
More glorious and beside what's said  

p See ver. 4.  She terifies her enemies  
As armies do with flags displayed   

11  

q The Church of Christ is his garden in which he is conversant, delighted much with the good fruit brought forth thereby, hath a special eye over her, looking for her fruitfulness, growth and increase.  I went to see the fruits that be  
I'th' valleys and the gardens too  
The fruitful vine to flourish fine  
And the pomegranates bud and blow.   

12  
Such was my care that ere ware  
Like th'chariots of Aminadad  
My soul did drive me for to strive  
T'express the love I ever had.   

13  

r The best for want of care and watchfulness may slip and fall, but it is both their duty and property to return from evil when roused up and called upon.  If thou hast been inclined to sin  
Return, return oh Shulamite  
'tis bad to stray worse there to stay  
Return we dearly thee invite.   


s The Church of Christ and so consequently every Christian is both lovely and humble, hath enemies fight without, and two contrary parties opposing each other within.  What would ye see in me to be  
Poor love debased Shulamite  
But companies of two armies  
Who with each other daily fight.    

CHAP. VII.  

1  
OH princes daughter great  
Heir to the king of kings  
Thou gloriously complete  

a It is no small part of a Christians glory, to continue patiently in well doing, and for the same bear to and undergo all things imposed upon them.  Appearest in all things.  
Thy feet are shod  
With Gospel peace that thou with ease  
Mayst walk with God.   


b The Church of Christ a spiritual body, fashioned formed knit & compacted together by the worker of all things, acting in all things according to his apoyntments.  The joints within thy thighs  
Like jewels are and chains  
All wrought in curious-wife  
By th'cunning workman's pains  
Each several joint  
Of my body doth supply  
As I appoint.   

2  

c Blessed is he that believeth and is baptised: for he is washed from his sins and shall have life everlasting.  Thy navel firm and sound  
That liquor wanteth none  
Is like a goblet round  
Refreshing every one  
Whose hearts I raise  
To pass the flood that shows my blood  
For sins release.   


d The ordinances of Christ in his Church do nourish refresh succour support, comfort and edify the saints, when spiritually, carefully, conscientiously they feed upon them.  Thy belly like to wheat  
With lilies white set over  
Affords most precious meat  
In great abundant store  
To be kept still  
That all my Saints that be in wants  
May feed their fill.   

3  

e See chap. the 4 and ver. 5.  Thy breasts are like two twins  
Of young and tender roes  
From whence because of sins  
Rivers of comforts flows  
To souls oppressed  
For there's no other but thou their mother  
Can give them rest.   

4  

f Those whose souls are freed from spiritual slavery and bondage by Christ jesus, become powerful, and able to do or undergo whatsoever he calls them unto.  Thy neck that shows thy power  
Being freed from slavery  
Is like an ivory tower  
Raised up most strong and high  
(Sins cruel bands  
Are like a yoke but they are broke  
By God's commands.)  

g See chap. 4 and ver. 1.  Thy eyes that give thee light  
Transparent are and clear  
Like to the fishponds bright  
In Heshbon that appear  
Close by the gate  
Of Bethrabbin where men go in  
And out thereat.   


h The Church of Christ is of a discerning spirit vigilant and watchful, wisely foresees the evil and in a prudent way delivers herself from it.  Thy nose is like the tower  
Of Lebanon so high  
From whence the foes great power  
From Syria men did spy  
Thou criest arm arm  
Lest enemies when they do rise  
Should do thee harm.   

5  

i Christ is the head of his Church he both rules and governs her, is also her defence and glory.  Thy head that ruleth well.  
The rest of thy body  
Is like unto Carmel  
In glorious dignity  
Thy hair also  
Upon thy head: like purple red  
Doth neatly grow.  

k The spiritual glory which Christ hath put upon his Church, is a thing that holds him in continual delight, and greatest pleasure.  The beauty which thou hast  
It doth me captivate  
That I am held full fast  
In a delightful state  
Of sweetest pleasure  
Each sight of thee affecteth me  
Above all measure.   

6  

l Christ still affected with the Church's beauty continues or rather renews his praises of her.  How fair art thou my dear  
For pleasure of each kind  
Such beauty any where  
I yet could never find  
I must admire  
Thy comeliness: which I profess  
My heart doth fire.   

7  

m The Church of Christ holds fast what she has received; will grow in grace and spiritually flourish, though adversaries rise up against her to depress, keep down or root her up.  Thy stature's like the tree  
Whereon the palms do grow  
That flourishing will be  
Though men will keep it low  
Like grapes well filled  
Thy breasts are such: and comfort much  
To souls they yield.   

8  

n Christ being ascended on high will have a special eye to his Church; preserve her from evil, comfort in and under her trouble and make her abundantly fruitful in good.  To th' palmtree I will go  
For it is my decree  
To comfort mine, and to  
Protect and oversee  
Each bough so green  
I'll take and dress: that fruitfulness  
May there be seen.   


o Those cannot be barren but abandant in all good fruit over whom Christ hath a spiritual eye with whom he is in sweet Communion.  Like clusters of the vine  
Now shall thy breasts be such  
There is not one of mine  
But fruit is yielding much  
They do abound;  
In heavenly grace: that have my face  
And favour found.   


p Those that are faithful labourers in the Lord's work shall not be without honour here and a great reward hereafter.  Thy nose like apples sweet  
Doth send its smell abroad  
Great fame is for them meet  
That watch the flock of God  
Their memory  
It shall be blest: when they in rest  
And silence lie.   

9  

q Saints of all sorts have learned the language of Canaan, their mouths filled with words full of goodness, speeches gracious, tending to edify all that hear them.  The palate of thy mouth  
Is like the purest wine  
Thy words are for thy growth  
And edifying mine  
It glads their heart  
And doth enlive; like wine revive  
Them in each part.   


r The word of the Lord is quick and powerful; of a piercing dividing discerning nature so known to those that feel the virtue thereof.  How efficacious then  
Are words thou givest forth  
They please me and all men  
That taste their precious worth  
Their power is much  
If men digest: what's sound pressed  
Their souls to touch.   


s Those that have tasted of the good word of the Lord and felt the working power thereof will not cannot be be silent but declare to others; what God hath done for their souls.  For it the sleep doth break  
Of those that sleepy are  
Causing their lips to speak  
In praises and in prayer  
They'll publish soon  
And tell abroad: the things that God  
For them hath done.   

10  

t When souls partake of the sweetness of Christ's love, they are then carried forth to give up themselves to him, becoming wholly his.  Now my assurance is  
(From it i'll not be moved)  
That I am wholly his  
That is my best belov'd  
And yet more see  
His whole desire: which I admire  
Is toward me.   

11  

u Christ is a Christians best companion whose presence they beg and ●●ize above all things else.  Now come with me my dear  
Let's go into the field,  

w Gospel fruit is most pleasing to, and acceptable to Christ Jesus.  The fruit, that's gathe'rd there  
Doth great contentment yield  

x The poor low and humble in spirit, and places mean and poor are fit receptacles for Jesus Christ.  Let's lodge and rest  
In places poor: for they full sure  
By thee are blest.   

12  

y Those souls that have miscarried, and are once humbled for it, will be diligent for time to come.  Oh let us rise betime  
And to the vineyards go  
Much sleeping was the crime  
That made my heart full woe  
Let's up and see.  
(Though some repines) whether the vines  
Flourishing be.   


z The stronger the Christians are and most endued with grace, the greater care will they have of those that are weak and tender in the growth of Christianity.  Whether the grape so young  
And tender be in growth  
And pomegranate among  
The other fruits bud forth  

a All that the saints have or can do is too little for Christ; hence it is they resign all they have unto him; who is worthy of more than they have or can give.  There I am free  
For to resign: all that is mine  
My loves to thee.   

13  

b The saints are always ready and prepared; with oil in their lamps furnished with all things excellent, to meet and entertain Christ Jesus.  The mandrakes sweetly smell  
And at our gates be there  
Such things as most execls  
And for thee ready are  
Fruits of all kind  
That can be told: both new and old  
Thou mayst there find.   


c Saints do all they do for and unto Christ, have received of his fullness and return to him, and lay up for him as it is their duty, obedience thankfulness and love.  Which I lay up and save  
As in a treasure  
The choicest that I have  
Is not too good for thee  
None can me move  
But had I more: I would it store  
For my dear love.    

CHAP. VIII.  

1  

a The Church of Christ is ever desirous Communion with him, do readily embrace him, cheerfully obey him, not mattering the world's reproaches.  OH that thou wert, even as my brother dear  
That sucked the breasts, of her that did me bear  
Where I should find thee, there I would thee kiss  
And should not be despised a jot for this.   

2  

b Christian's having found and laid hold on Christ, hold him fast, will not let him go: still desirous of his presence.  I would thee lead, and bring thee to no other  
But to the mansions of my own sweet mother  
Thither full readily, I will conduct thee  

c The truths of Christ for instruction correction and comfort are.  And there full readily, she will instruct me,   


d Kept and to be found in his Church every true Christian hath the pure juices of faith obedience and love to please and delight Christ.  There of pure spiced wine; I'll make thee drink  
And of pomegranate juice, for why I think  
Thou well deserv'st to drink the sweetest of all  
Though some once gave thee vinegar and gall.   

3  

e Saints as they want and stand in need of Christ's power to support and strengthen them: they may be assured to have and enjoy in all seasons.  Now that I may not want my full comfort  
His left hand shall my feeble head support  
To cheer my heart, his right hand shall embrace me  
That neither sin nor weakness do disgrace me  
Such close embraces: I can tell by trying  
They will revive a fainting soul a dying.   

4  

f See chap. 2 and 7 ver.  I charge, adjure, and do forbid all them  
That are called daughters of Jerusalem  
They stir not up my love, by wicked ways  
Nor him awake until himself do please;  
For whosoever doth him so provoke  
Must feel the force of his most angry stroke.   

5  

g See chap. 3 and 6 ver.  Oh who is this, we cannot but admire  
That doth ascend; and rise up daily higher  
Out of the desert forlorn wilderness,  
Into a state of happiness and bliss;  
For she both lies and leans, and still depends  
Upon her best beloved as she ascends.  
She rests, she rowls she hopes, on him she stays  
That her upholds, and keeps in all her ways  

h By Jesus Christ all his are spiritually raised from a dead and filthy state to live a new life here and shall by him be raised again at the last day.  When thou wast fallen my spouse; I pitied thee  
And raised thee from under the apple tree  
There did thy mother, bear and bring thee forth,  
In such uncleanness as my soul did loath;  
But through my blood and passion, thou and she  
From sin and death, are perfectly set free.   

6  

i Christ's favours conferred upon Christians are strong obligations to love and thinkfulness.  Now sigh thou hast, for me so great things done  
My heart thou hast, for everlasting won;  
And now I beg and pray, dear love to be  
Yet more assured; how well thou lovest me  

k To be in, and upon the heart of Christ is the great privilege, and earnest desire of every Christian.  And therefore set me as a seal is set,  
Upon thy heart that thou mayst not forget  
Thy kindness to me and t'free me from harm  
Set me also, as seal upon thine arm.  

l That true divine spiritual love which is shed abroad in the hearts of the saints, is powerful, conquering, and of a durable lasting nature.  For why, the love I bear to thee my dear  
It is for strength much like the king of fear  
Whose deadly fatal stroke kills all; but I  
If thou deny my suit for love must die;  
For like the grave that cruelly devours  
And every living creature overpowers,  
Such is the zeal and love within my breast  
It quite consumes me, I can have no rest  
The coals thereof; are coals of heavenly fire  
Whose burning flames do mount my soul up higher  
This works, this shines, this upward flies  
This burning lies, and lives when t'other dies   

7  

m There is no calamity misery or affliction, no persecution so great that can extinguish the fire of divine love to Christ Jesus.  Though men and devils daily go about  
Thinking to quench, extinguish and put out  
This heavenly flame of love by often trying  
By fierce affliction whether 'twill be dying  
Though many floods and waters overflow it;  

n The more the Church of Christ is persecuted the more it flourishes.  The more they seek to quench the more they blow it  
Into a perfect flame of love divine  
To him, that loves not less, for aught that's mine.  

o Where there is true love to Jesus Christ, it will make them to contemn, despise, yea to hate all things in comparison of him.  Such is the strength of love, and more behold  
Not pearls nor precious stones nor purest gold  
Can force or flatter me to be disloyal  
My love is stronger and can bide the trial  
It hates, it scorns, it loathes that man's great riches  
Or substance of his house which some bewitches  
To turn aside: yet though 'twere offered to me  
I would condemn and put it away from me  
So high is my resolve I do disdain  
All things for Christ for whom all loss is gain.   

8  

p True love to Christ, draws out the heart to love others also, to pity them, pray for them; and seek by all means their everlasting welfare.  Thus unto thee my love I have expressed  
And yet with thee alone; it must not rest  
I am constrained by it to make petition  
For our poor sister whose yet low condition  
Requires thy pity for she is but small  
And little too: having no breasts at all  
To yield refreshment: oh what shall we do  
What grace desire; what furtherance yield unto  
Our little sister for whom 'tis our care  
That she, and we at last, alike may far;  
Oh think upon her; do her not forget  
She now is low but thou her time hast set  
When thou wilt for her speak, and something say  
To show thy grace, in her appointed day.   

9  

q The Church of Christ hath a wall for defence, a door for entrance, admission and exclusion, is distinct from others by obedience to Christ's laws and holiness: surrounded on every side with the never fading mercies and favours of God.  If that she be a wall for so we would  
Have her to be: then upon her we could  
As on a firm foundation raise and build  
Such palaces, as silver pure doth yield  
Let's her divide, from others by a name  
And then increase her glory to her fame:  
And if she be, or have a door which shows  
The building perfected as each man knows  
Oh when we can but see her this complete  
Then will we compass her, with mercies great  
Which will endure, and are more lasting far  
Then all, or any boards of cedar are  
No gates, or strength of hell shall once prevail  
To do her any harm: though they assayl  
Her with great force: for she's the habitation  
Of him that makes her gates; and walls Salvation.   

10  

r Christians are then both amiable and useful when grown well in grace being united by faith and obedience are steadfast and .  Now I am grown; into a perfect wall  
(Such growth all have, that harken to Christ's call)  
My breasts like towers, they are erected high  
Others to help, myself to beautify  
Now I am knit unto the corner stone  
My ground-work's sure, and cannot be o'erthrown.  

s Men in a natural state are filthy impure unpolisht rough, unlovely but partaking of the grace of God in Christ Jesus unto conversion and faith are most precious and so esteemed by him.  From that time I found favour in his eyes  
(Though once I was, like stones that men despise  
When they among the rubbish lie unsquared  
Such was my state, and so it with me fared  
But now being hewn, and squared, and polished bright)  
I am become so precious in his sight.   

11  

t Those Christ employs in his vineyard ought to be both vigilant, laborious diligent.  At Baalhamon, a fertile fruitful plot  
A fruitful vineyard Solomon had got  
Which vineyard he lets out unto his keepers  
Which must be watchmen, and not drowsy sleepers  
And every one of them must yearly bring  
Forth fruit thereof, a thousand silverling.   

12  

u The Church of Christ, and so every Christian is Christ's own and aught to be devoted wholly unto him.  The vineyard t'wich I have a proper right  
It is my own and always in my sight.  

w He hath promised his presence with his people and will make provision for them.  My watchful eye her wants shall still be spying  
And when discerned my grace shall be supplying  
Those wants of hers: that she may fruitful be  

x To the end they may abound in Gospel fruit in good works.  And in great measure bring forth fruit to me  
Her blessing is prosperity and peace  
And I expect and look for much increase,  
Not for myself alone nor for my sake  

y The labourers in Christ's Church are blessed if faithful, for they shall have a great reward.  But fellow laborers, that pain do take  
To dig, and plant and prune without regard  
Unto themselves: sure I will them reward  
If I a thousand do look for at least  
Two hundred to allow them I am pleast  
They shall partake o'th' glory that is mine  
And like the sun in brightness ever shine.   

13  

z The true Church of Christ and th● pastors thereof teach and instruct others with saving doctrine and sound speech such as cannot be condemned.  O thou that in the gardens, hast thy dwelling  
Regard this thing, which to thee I am telling  
Thou hast companions, which do hear thy voice  
And thou must them instruct, for therein lies  
Thy duty to them: thou must set before them  
The good and evil too, not Lord o'er them  
For they partake of the same precious faith  
And what the one have, still the other hath  

a To be much in prayer is the duty of Saints, it is the precept of Christ, and pleasing to him if they do so.  And furthermore, thou mayst cause me to hear  
Thy voice also, in humble hearty prayer  
It is a sacrifice, right pleasant sweet  
And for the saints to offer it is meet  
My soul also with it is much delighted  
Remember how to it thou art invited.   

14  

b Every gracious soul longs and prays for Christ's second coming in glory, that they may be freed from all that is grievous here & reign with him in heaven hereafter: amen, come Lord Jesus come quickly.  My soul dear love's impatient of delay  
Make haste, make haste, and do no longer stay  
Be thou for swiftness like the roe or hart  
My only dear who on the mountains art  
Of spicy pleasures and all rare delight  
That ravish will the heart: and dim the sight  
Of all beholders from those glorious hills  
The sweetest pleasures evermore distils;  
While I am here below I am oppressed,  
Lord Jesus quickly come, to give me rest.     

THE BOOK OF JONAH IN METRE.  

CHAP. I.  
The Argument.  
How Jonah's sent to Niniveh  
But he withstood Gods call,  
In turning off another way,  
And's swallowed by a whale.  

IN ancient times as Scriptures do record  
In israel dwelled a prophet of the Lord.  
Jona by name, son of Amittais youth,  
To whom the Lord sent forth his word of truth,  
He long had preached to israels ten tribes  
Converts them not, but gains their mocks and gibes;  
Now God doth see by means they do not profit  
When they should hear the word, they rather scof it,  
Their hearts are hard, means makes them not amend  
Another way God will their prophet send:  
The light from heaven must not always shine  
What God doth give he sometimes takes again. 
Observation from Gods sending Jonah to Niniveh out of Israel when he preached but did not profit.   
When trees are barren, do not bring forth fruit  
The gardener will pluck 'em up by the root,  
When men have means for growth, but do not grow  
God will not ta●●y but away will go,  
When truth appears but truth men do not love  
Nor means nor mercies, carefully improve  
For their chief good: their day is turned to night  
And darkness covers them instead of light;  
The means they had before God will remove it,  
And give it those that better will improve it;  
When by the means they do not bring forth fruit  
Those shall have means, that by the means will do't   

On mine embassage Jona thou must go  
And hast away th' assyrian city to  
That is so great, so full, and of such fame  
Through all the world: 'tis Niniveh by name.   

And when thou comest there in herald-wise  
Declare thy message, though they do despise  
Both it and thee: lift up thy voice on high  
And like a trumpet, sound a fearful cry  
Against the city, lest it doth repent  
And let it know, for what end thou art sent.   

For why, I judge them not without a cause  
The people are found bteakers of my laws,  
They have not learned to fear nor to adore me  
Their wickedness and sin, it lies before me,  
As Sodoms sins once cried loud in mine ears  
So Ninivehs before my face appears,  
For which I will the city overthrow  
Commission now thou hast, see that thou go;  
The greatest monarches that the earth doth bear  
Nor Cities of most fame that ever were  
Nor might nor greatness gives immunity  
But all exposed to judgement just they lie; 
Observation from Gods not sparing the greatest places nor persons.   
If they mind not their maker for to know  
Their maker's mind is them to overthrow.   

But Jona now as one amazed no doubt,  
With this strange heathen news doth cast about  
What course to take, that so he may not be  
A bringer of this news to Ninivee;  
For why, in Israel he had taken pain  
And preached long; but's preaching was in vain  
Doth those elaborate pains, convert no Jews  
What hope is there that this unwelcome news,  
This dreadful, direful sermon should find place  
Among the people of the heathen race  
And if it should then God was gracious bend  
And of the threatened judgement would repent  
That so his reputation he must lose  
Another way therefore the prophet goes.   

When doubts arise and dangers stand before  
Seeming to cross the way we should go over  
When at the stake our carnal interest lies  
And self must suffer by the enterprise  
How apt are we poor weaklings to suggest  
Our own devices, not Gods ways the best. 
Observation from Jonah's turning aside because he thought God would not make good his word against Niniveh.    

Sin blinds men's eyes, now jona thinks to flee  
Out of his presence who doth view and see  
Each step he takes: from his allseeing eyes  
He posts away; and unto Tarshish flies  
Having cast off obedience to God's word  
He steals away from serving of his Lord  
Thinking that by this unadvised flight  
To hid himself from Gods most piercing sight.   

To a sea port or to a haven town  
jopa by name, this passenger went down,  
At his arrival there he quickly sound  
A ship prepared; fitted, ready bound  
To Tarsus city: there her voyage was  
Thither the rebel Prophet thought to pass;  
And that his passage might not be prevented  
To pay his fare, aforehand he's contented  
Which having done he quickly goes aboard  
To flee away from serving of the Lord.   

When self sits uppermost and beareth sway  
That selfish soul will quickly disobey  
Gods just commands: 
Observation from Jonah's care and diligence to effect his carnal intention.  and every holy test  
For to promote a selfish interest.  
No let nor rub that standeth in the way  
Of erring man; when once he goes astray  
From God's command: but he with diligence  
Will use endeavour, to remove it thence  
What care he takes for fear his game be lost,  
Although at last full dear it do him cost.   

Now Jona hasts away, he's under sail  
Looking each minute for a prosperous gale  
Of pleasant wind to further his intent,  
And quickly wafed him over whether he went.   

But that great Lord whom Jona did displease  
Sent out his wind and did a tempest raise,  
A mighty tempest is upon the main  
So that the ship the clouds do seem to gain:  
Those milder streams are curled, rough and unkind  
And rage and swell by reason of the wind  
The Ship it reels like to a drunken man,  
The mariners they do all that they can  
To lowr the topsail, and take in the sails  
Yet all they do or can nothing avails  
For still the hideous tempest on them lies  
And to lose ship and all, now each man cries.   

How vain are we to think our counsel will  
Take place: 
Observe. from God's crossing Jonah in his way of disobedience and rebellion.  when we consult for to fulfil  
Unruly lusts, and foolish fond intent,  
Thinking God's blessed will for to prevent  
Then to our grief, our detriment and loss,  
Such purposes, he'll quickly cross;  
All men's endeavours than are at a stand  
When they endeavour to bind up God hand  
Or to divert the course of a just rod,  
When streached forth by a displeased God   

The seamen all are now full sore afraid  
The strongest hearts of men may be dismayed  
Fear with the smart of heavens chastizing rod  
Drives every man to call upon his God:  
Unto their heathen gods they make their suit,  
Fear makes men pray, when nothing else will do't,  
And now as men possessed with dreadful cares  
To save themselves and ship: they take the wares  
And cast it over board; in hope their pains  
May be rewarded in the use of means.   

Some that confess a God: 
Observe. from the heathen Seamens praying in danger  no more God knows  
Then did these heathen rude and barbarous,  
Who in the time of their great misery  
Do all confess there is a deity.  
But they that do confess the true God must  
Fear, love, obey, and always in him trust.   

But where is Jona all this dreadful while  
The Seas do roar and rage and foam and boil,  
And whistling winds a fearful noise do keep  
Our jonas gone aside the ship to sleep,  
His senses are locked fast, and conscience too  
And neither wakes for all the seas can do.  
A man would think no heart could now endure  
But sin makes men most desperately secure.   

When into dangers men are plunged deep  
They many times do fall full fast asleep  
Lullled in the cradle of security  
Till their small thread of life be cut, 
Observe. from Jonah's security in time of so great danger.  whereby  
They hold their lease, than they awakened be:  
Eyes that were shut, are open now to see  
How Satan like a juggler, did deceive them  
And of true happiness did quite bereave them,  
Who being fooled into this dismal state  
Must pay for pleasures at a woeful rate,  
The master of the Ship then to him came  
And says what meanest thou (O fie for shame)  
What meanest thou O sleeper void of fears)  
How canst thou, dar'st thou rest, now death appears?  
Are not we sinking all into the deep  
Why dost not rather watch: but lie and sleep?  
Is this a time for thee to be secure  
Now death is waiting for thee at the door?  
Art thou of sense and reason quite bereft  
Or of the world to come, all thoughts hast left?  
Arise O sluggard, do it not delay  
Hast thou a God, then unto thy God pray  
And call upon him with an earnest cry  
Perhaps he'll hear and will us not destroy:  
Thus did the heathen to his duty move him  
And for his negligence sharply reprove him.   

Come near and take a view; 
Observe. from the prophet's sluggishness who was to have been a watchman unto others.  but do not wonder  
To see a Boanarges son of thunder;  
Whose office is to cry to men, arm, arm,  
Lest through security your souls take harm:  
Stand fast, quit you like men, be strong and watch:  
And yet himself a single slumber catch  
His light, his life, his grace a while to smother  
In ashes rak't, till kindled by another.  
O most prodigious, he that is the keeper  
Of's own and others souls to turn dead sleeper.   

The seamen now aghast, with horrid fear  
Did think some wicked person was come there  
Who had committed some more huinous crime  
And for whose cause the evil of that time  
Had now befallen them: hence with one consent  
They all agree to find the delinquent.   

Come let us now cast lots into the lap  
Thereby to know for whose cause this mishap  
And evil is upon us: so they fell  
To casting lots: till that time none could tell  
Who was the man so sorely had offended,  
The lot was cast, and jona apprehended;  
When God will execute his judgements just  
'Tis a vain thing in a vain thing to trust; 
Observe. from Jonah's being found out by the Lord and his sin discovered.   
When God a sinner will bring to the trial  
〈…〉 thing to bid the Lord denial  
When God will search 'tis vain to go about  
To hid from God; for God will find it out.  
Shall vain man sin? in sinning think to hid  
Himself from God; whose eyes cannot abide  
To look on sin, what doth he think he can  
Deal with his God, as he dealeth with man?  
Nay God hath ways and means to bring to light,  
Things done in secret and the darksome night,  
Sometimes by this means, and sometimes by th'other  
God will discover what vain man doth smother.   

Now let us know, we pray thee hid not from us  
The very cause why this is come upon us,  
Thou seest we're brought into an exigent  
And till we know the cause are not content;  
Hast thou a calling, than what calling hast?  
Art thou not one that wilfully doth waste  
Thy precious time and live in idleness,  
And for that sin ere brought unto distress?  
What is the country now from which thou came?  
And of what people art tell us by name.   

Now danger great had opened Ionah's eyes  
Therefore he says to them in humble wise  
as for my nation it is of the Jews  
Distinct from others by the name Hebrews;  
I am an hebrew from the loins descended  
Of him that was of God so much befriended.  
As for Religion I do fear the Lord,  
And worship him who by his powerful word,  
Did frame and fashion both sea and dry land,  
That governs all things at his own command:  
To God alone and t'none else am I bound,  
Yet at this time in base rebellion found.  
When men are brought into some great distress  
Though not before yet then they will confess  
Their evil deeds, 
Observe. from Jonah's confession and acknowledgement, of God and his rebellion.  the hearts that stubborn were  
Are bruised and broken in a time of fear;  
God in his wisdom, often thinks it fit  
To whip a frantic person into's wit,  
And sure, at such a time ●ells his best  
To use and to improve what interest  
He hath in God, if any such thing be,  
And to his uprightness for comfort flee.   

Then were the men afraid, with greater fear  
When so much of the true God they do hear,  
And see for sin he doth due vengeance take  
And will not spare it for a prophet's sake;  
Then did they say, why hast thou done this thing?  
How darest thou disobey thy Lord and King?  
What couldst thou turn away, when he says go?  
Dare you professing Hebrews once do so?  
What fond conceit possessed thee, didst thou think  
That for so great a fault thy God would wink?  
For he had told them, and thereby they knew  
That from the presence of the Lord he flew.   

Thus he that disobeyed God's command  
Doth now convict, condemned, 
Observe. from the heathens reprehending Jonah.  and censured stand  
Among, and by the barbarous heathen crew  
In silent wise account it all his due;  
So every one that feareth not God's name  
One time or other he will cloth with shame  
And make them stand as men all in a maze  
Dumb like a stock on which others do gaze;  
And by the words of others are reproved  
Cause by the words of God they were not moved:   

The Seamen say Jona thou hast undone us  
The seas still rage and tempest lies upon us,  
Our souls are filled with dreadful fears and care  
And still increasing as the tempests are;  
The lot's fallen on thee, conscience tells thee too  
Thou art the man that doth us quite undo;  
By which two things thou plainly art detected  
To be the cause yet let us be directed  
What we shall do unto thee that the seas  
May rage's and foam no more and winds may cease.   

Then jona answered, 'tis not you but I  
That have provoked God so mightily  
'Tis for my sake not yours the seas are raging  
And tempest still is on you not assuaging:  
Now take me up and cast me overboard  
For that's apppointed for me of the Lord,  
That is the sentence, I must undergo it  
And silently submit myself unto it;  
Then shall there be a calm upon the main  
And boisterous waves shall smoothly glide again.   

Though God in justice seem to be severe  
And strict in punishing for sin: 
Observe. from Jonah's so patiently submitting to Gods will: accepting the punishment of his iniquity.  yet here  
A gracious soul submits in any wise  
And suffers not one grudging thought to rise  
Against God's dealing so: but will submit  
Knowing his sin is the just cause of it:  
For to excuse himself he will not do  
But say, 'tis righteous Lord, that thou dost so:  
he'll take unto himself deserved shame  
Thereby to honour Gods most glorious name.   

Come take a view how these rude heathen men  
Behaved themselves in love to Jonah; when  
They saw his patience, and did hear his word  
And knew he was a prophet of the Lord;  
Sure greater love than theirs could not be shown  
They seek to save his life dang'ring their own,  
They fain would save him, and therefore they try  
The best of means and skill before he die:  
They row full hard; now each man lays his hand  
To work: thinking to bring the ship to land  
They toil, they sweat, they labour in great pain  
And when  done their labour's all in vain.  
For now as though the elements conspire  
To vex them still: the waves they mount up higher  
The sea still works, the windy tempests roar  
The seamen cease there rowing and give over.   

From hence we see that a mere humane soul  
Hath so much pity others to condole  
That God of nature, 
Observe. from the heathen men's endeavour to have saved Jonah.  so much reason gave  
To teach one man another's life to save;  
More when a beam divine hath influence  
On them: they give the greater reverence.   

These men that worshipped idol gods before  
Have quickly learned the true God to adore;  
And now like unto new converted Saints  
They go to God alone, with prayer and plants:  
And lest the guilt of blood should on them lie,  
They make to heaven and list up their cry.  
We do beseech thee Lord destroy us not  
For this man's sake: but leave us without spot:  
We do beseech thee Lord, and humbly pray;  
Blood innocent on us thou wilt not lay,  
For we perceive Lord that it is thy will,  
And we as executioners do fulfil  
Even as thy blessed pleasure hath designed,  
For all is done according to thy mind.   

Men in affliction earnestly will cry, 
Observe. from the heathen men's addressing themselves to God in this straight.   
The worst of men then unto God will fly  
Self guides the stern ofttimes, and beareth sway;  
For love to self and not to God; they'll pray:  
But every one that is a convert true,  
In every season yieldeth God his due,  
Unto his God he prays, to him he'll cry,  
Not only when afflictions on him lie,  
And when some difficulties stand before,  
But when all such with ease he can get over:  
If this or that befall, he's moved by neither,  
he'll pray as well in fair as fouler weather.   

So they took Jonah as it pleased the Lord,  
Into the sea they cast him overboard,  
Whereat the sea it seemed well satisfied  
The stormy tempest now is laid aside:  
No token of displeasure now appears  
Nor nothing seen to usher future fears;  
Now all is done, even as the Lord did please  
His anger now is calm: so are the seas.  
If judgement at God's house do first begin, 
Observe. from Gods not sparing his own servant.   
And God not wink, though at a prophet's sin:  
If God his dearest ones he will not spare  
But they of this and t'other stripe must share,  
As God in justice pleaseth to pass sentence,  
Then those ungodly ones without repentance  
Those fearless graceless wicked wretches; who  
From one rebellion to another go;  
The devil's drudges, driving on sins trade  
Must pay full dear for it; when th'reckoning's made.   

The seamen seeing all things that had past  
They cannot choose but stand like men aghast  
They cast off idols; greatly fear the Lord,  
And offer sacrifice, while yet aboard:  
And lest these wonders, should slip out of mind  
Themselves by vows and oaths full fast they bind,  
To praise the Lord that saved them from the deep  
And all their day's, this vow they mean to keep.   

When God in wondrous manner doth appear  
And to men's souls in mercy doth draw near, 
Observe. from the sea-mens' devoting themselves to God.   
When he puts forth his power to touch the heart,  
Men are made willing from their sins to part:  
Till by the fear of God their souls are moved  
They will not leave what they so long have loved:  
But when God's power doth form a creature new  
The devil, world and flesh they bid adieu;  
They break their bonds with them that tied them fast  
And cleave to God with purposes to last.   

Come view the care and providence of God  
Who though he did chastise, with's angry rod  
Yet mercy shows when justice might take place  
And after frowns, shows forth a pleasant face.   

And now to satisfy his love and care  
A mighty whale before hand did prepare,  
For to devour and in devouring save:  
His belly now it must be Jonah's grave,  
In which dark vault the Lord did him embark  
Three days and nights, as safe as in an ark  
Where deaths black terrors do surround his soul  
His passing bell in's ear doth always toul  
Where now we leave him, thus begirt with fear  
Till in another wonder God appear.    

CHAP. II.  
The Argument.  
How Jonah unto God did pray  
Now he is in his grave  
God heard, and in a wondrous way  
How he did Jonah save.  

NOw see how good afflictions often prove  
They are not only tokens of God's love, 
Observa. from Jonah's reducement by his affliction.   
Sins past correct, and future sins prevent  
But for some other causes they are sent,  
The wand'ring roving steps for to bring back  
And quicken souls to duties, that are slack.  
Then Jona in the depth of misery  
Who seeks not God in time of liberty  
But runs and flees, and hides him from his face  
Doth now cry to him in this dismal case,  
He now is cast into deaths darksome bed  
It's sable curtains wrap about his head,  
The king of terror, terrible appears  
And Jonah's heart, doth melt away with fears,  
Out of the fishes belly Jonah's grave  
Jonah had hope that God would Jonah save,  
His faith begetteth prayer; he prays in faith  
And to the Lord his God these words he saith  
When faith gets strength, and hope takes anchor hold  
The soul that feared before, doth now grow bold  
With great and grievous troubles being pressed,  
He knocks at heavens gates and will not rest  
Until his suit do find acceptance there  
And gracious answer be returned to prayer;  
he'll seek, he'll sue, he'll cry, and not give over  
Till God do open what was shut before.   

Oh Lord my soul is brought into distress  
I have deserved it; yet a great deal less  
Than what I do deserve I undergo;  
Thou art a gracious God than mercy show;  
'Twas my affliction great that made me cry  
And 'twas thy mercy t'hear so speedily  
My earnest suit, thou didst it not say nay  
When I out of this hellish grave did pray:  
Thou heardest me, when I thy face had sought  
And thou hast for me great salvation wrought.   

No labour's lost when we are in distress  
To make to heaven by humble address  
With hearts all melting, 
Observa. from the good success Jonah had in turning cleaning to God in his affliction.  broken and contrite  
A thing in which God takes so much delight,  
When in this frame of spirit we make suit,  
To God alone in Christ, then that will do't,  
When we confess our sins with grief and shame,  
And do reform our lives the flesh to tame  
Such blessed endeavours, never proves in vain,  
Though God were gone; it brings him back again.  
'Twas not the seamen but it was the Lord  
That took me up, and cast me overboard  
They did fulfil even as thou Lord didst please  
'Twas thou by them, cast me into the seas  
Into the midst and heart of them: where those  
Proud waters did me secretly enclose  
The floods the seas, raised high with wind and tide  
They do encompass me on every side  
All thy proud billows, which do mount on high  
At thy command: yet else do smoothly lie,  
And towering waves which I poor fool alas!  
Thought to get over: yet now all o'er me pass.   

When gracious souls are brought under the rod  
That is i'th' hand of a displeased God, 
Observation from Jonah's looking at the hand of the Lord and not at the instrument be made use of.   
Nor this, nor that, who is the instrument,  
But God they eye, who hath affliction sent,  
Not like the dog, that gnawing is the stone,  
Regarding not the hand, by which it's thrown.   

And then I said, for I was in great fear  
And labouring was, betwixt hope and despair,  
(The darkness having dimmed the clearest light)  
Then said I, Lord I'm cast out of thy sight;  
Yet notwithstanding, all the grace thou hast,  
Seemeth to me, as if 'twere locked up fast  
And that no beam of light I can espy,  
Yet will I look again with steadfast eye  
Toward thy temple, and that holy place,  
Where Lord thou promised haste, to show thy face.   

Two contraries are in the best of men  
The party vanquished, 
Observa. from the war between the flesh and spirit in the best.  fain would rise again  
The flesh and spirit, do oppose each other,  
The elder's loath to serve the younger brother  
Great contestation is twixt faith and doubt  
Hopeless despair, strives hard true faith to rout  
These two opponents bicker in the field  
Nor one nor other of these two will yield  
Till faith puts forth at last, and striketh home  
With blows, that doubting fear do overcome;  
A man that's brought into a woeful state  
Will oftentimes his misery relate  
And will enlarge himself to tell his grief  
Thinking by telling it, to find relief.   

So Jonah does his misery repeat  
And says the water's plentiful and great,  
They did environ me they did me wrap  
As swaddling bands the babe in mother's lap;  
Three days and nights they do about me roll,  
And deaths black hearse encompasses my soul:  
The waters deep were daily o'er me spread,  
And stinking weeds did wrap about my head:  
Unto the bottom of the mountains steep,  
Then I went down still fathoming the deep  
Sometimes I was aloft upon the main,  
And soon plunged down into the depths again:  
I was in prison and the earth did bar me  
And horrid fears, do every minute scar-me,  
For ever hopeless to set foot on shore,  
Unless thou by a wonder me restore:  
Yet thou O Lord my God, was pleased to save  
And brought my life again up from the grave,  
That cruel corrupt loathsome stinking pit  
Where death had almost swallowed me in it.   

There's no condition that can be so sad, 
Observa. from Jonah's obtaining deliverance and his thankfulness for the same.   
Nor state of man that ever was so bad,  
There is no burden can so heavy lie  
Nor vexing grief nor pressing misery,  
But God almighty by his mighty strength  
He can deliver: and he will at length  
Deliver those that do on him rely,  
And pray to him in faith with earnest cry;  
From their low state he can and will them raise  
And when 'tis done they'll ever give him praise;  
They will confess that he salvation wrought,  
And heard as soon, as they his face had sought.   

When my heart broke and soul it fainting lay  
To ease myself I could devise no way,  
My thoughts to this and then to that were led,  
But still they did return upon my head;  
Then did I think upon (for it was time),  
The mercies Lord thou ever hast shown thine,  
My hope was anchor, and it took fast hold  
And to the throne of grace now I make bold,  
My humble prayer for to present to thee,  
Though like a rebel lately I fled from thee,  
Thou didst not shut it out: (oh wondrous grace)  
But it came in, unto thy holy place. 
Observa. from Jonah's encoraging himself to rely on God and cry to him from consideration of former mercies.    

When we poor creatures know not what to do  
To one shift and another are put to,  
And find no means of help to avoid our trouble  
Instead of help, they are returned double:  
When every vessel leaks and refuge fails,  
And every hold we have nothing avails:  
When each proud wave and billow doth pass ore-us  
And death with all his terror stand beforeus,  
Then it is time, full time to call to mind,  
Each thing of God, that we did ever find  
To strengthen faith and give encouragement  
Our prayers in heavens court for to present.   

All ye that hunt and follow after lies  
And are observing idle vanities  
That have dependency on false deceits  
That evermore the silly sinner cheats  
As long as ye these sinful courses take  
In choosing these; your own mercies forsake  
Both present happiness and future bliss  
And I by sad experience tell you this.   

Those that at any time have gone astray  
Turning aside out of God's holy way  
And are whipped for it till their backs do bleed, 
Observa. from Jonah's giving warning to others from woeful experience.   
Can best of all warn others to take heed.   

Now as for those that follow vanities  
And unto idol-gods do sacrifice,  
Ascribing to them each deliverance  
Accounting all things as they came by chance,  
Both th'one and th'other always come to naught,  
But as for my part I am better taught,  
And unto thee O Lord my heart will raise  
And sacrifice unto thy name with praise;  
I will give thanks unto thy holy name  
From thee and none else my deliverance came,  
And now I'll pay to thee that I have vowed,  
Because I know by thee I am allowed;  
For why I know there's no salvation wrought,  
But what thy hand, O Lord to pass hath brought. 
Observa. from Jonah's thankfulness for his deliverance.    

When God appears to us in love and grace  
And shows again the beauty of his face  
When he unfolds his arms to let us in,  
And draws a mantle over to hid our sin,  
When he puts forth his power not to destroy,  
But save; and fill our hearts with perfect joy,  
Surely it is an obligation strong  
To bind our hearts: but so unloose our tongue  
To speak in praise, talking t'others abroad  
o'th' wisdom, goodness, mercy, power of God;  
But when his grace is turned to wantonness  
And mercy move men neither more nor less,  
Lives to reform and manners to amend  
Those mercies turn to judgements in the end.   

Then spoke the Lord that hath the sole command  
Of all the crearures in the sea and land  
He spoke unto the whale within the sea  
The whale no sooner heard but did obey,  
He said to him, Jonah I mean to save,  
Thy belly hath been long enough his grave  
My mighty power, now he shall understand  
Therefore go bring him quickly to the land;  
Then did the fish launch forrh, away he went  
Unto the place whether the Lord him sent,  
He splits the seas with haste until they roar  
And vomits Jonah safely on the shore.   

What shall a fish that in the seas doth dwell  
Hear and obey God's voice and not rebel, 
Observa. from the whales obedience to God's command.   
One void of reason and religion too,  
At the first bidding; as God bids him do.  
God speaks but once unto the mighty whale  
At his command he stops: then harken all  
To whom God speaks not only once nor twice  
But ore and over he comes with new supplies  
Of precepts mingled, with entreatise dear,  
To stir them up his holy name to fear,  
Crying aloud, Oh do this thing and live,  
But yet for all that, no attendance give.  
Shall th' queen of Sheba, travail from the south  
To hear the wisdom, dropping from the mouth  
Of a mere man; shall Niniveh repent,  
As soon as Jonah unto them was sent,  
Then Sheba's queen the Ninivites and whale  
Shall rise in judgement, and condemn them all.    

CHAP. III.  
The Argument.  
How Jonah unto N●niveh  
A second time is sent  
They hear: in hearing do obey  
The Lord did then repent.  

NO sooner were all these things done and passed  
But God his mercy (which doth ever last)  
To Jonah shows: 
Observa. from the prophets declaring that and only that the Lord commanded him & not going before the Lord sent him.  to grace he doth receive him  
And though he did provoke he will not leave him.  
Though from his office he might be degraded  
Yet for his fault, he is not now upbraded.  
But now a second time their comes a word  
Sent unto Jonah from the highest Lord  
Saying arise, begone and do not stay  
Mine anger will arise, if thou delay  
Thou art commanded make no more excuses  
Know thou my patience brooks no more abuses.  
Unto that famous City Niniveh  
I again send thee and see that thou say  
The word I bid thee, when thou comest there  
Preach that, whether they hear or do forbear.  
And though of thee not one would have regard  
And for such news canst look for no reward,  
Yet be thou strong, take courage, see thou do it,  
I charge thee turn not off, but go unto it.  
I am resolved of this, and they shall know  
That within forty days i'll overthrow  
Their City great, if they within that space  
Do not repent that I may show them grace.  
All those that run when God says no such thing,  
Not God but their own errand they will bring,  
The message God commands they'll not impart  
But what's devised in their own foolish heart,  
Or that which man commands, with zeal they press  
But what God bids them preach: a great deal less  
Of care and zeal they spend; which doth declare  
That not the true but prophets false they are:  
But he's the prophet true goes not before  
God send him furnished with a heavenly store  
What he commands him still he keeps to that,  
To speak and do; regardless always what  
Men do oppose, nor love nor fear that draws him  
To fail his trust; for'ts love and fear that awes him.  
Now Jonah doth arise away he gets  
And toward Niniveh his face he sets,  
He trudges on, regards not wind nor weather,  
Nor takes not up his rest till he come thither;  
For God had strictly charged him by his word  
And now his care is therewith to accord.   

Men for their sins do often feel the rod  
And heavy hand of a displeased God, 
Observe. from Jonah's hasting now to perform what God gave him in charge.   
Before affliction comes they go astray  
But learn by it their master to obey.   

Now this same great Assyrian city where  
The prophet with his sermon must appear,  
It was exceeding great, greater than other,  
And of all cities well might be the mother;  
It was so long, so broad, spacious and wide,  
Three days to travail it from side to side  
Might be a journey for a man most fit,  
For so recorded 'tis in holy writ.  
Besides some say, that humane histories  
Do make report, some say they are not lies,  
That threescore miles would but this city round,  
And fifteen hundred towers in it were found;  
The walls in height, full thirty yards and more,  
The like was surely never seen before;  
The breadth o'th' walls was equal to the rest  
They say two chariots might well pass in breast,  
And space enough for divers left between,  
Such walls in height and breadth besides, ne'er seen  
And sixscore thousand infants were found there,  
As the next chapter makes it to appear.   

Unto this city mighty and of fame  
At last full tired and weary jonah came,  
Passes the streets one day, gins to thunder  
Out his unwelcome news: makes them to wonder  
And stand like men affright, with ghastly fear,  
Their ears do tingle at the news they hear;  
With fainting fits theyare ready to drop down,  
Each tells another news that's come to town.  
All thus alarmed they stand as in a maze  
And every one at other seems to gaze;  
The alarm runs apace through every street,  
And all that hear tell others whom they meet.   

For Jonah went along with doleful cry  
Yet forty days and then God will destroy  
This city great, than he will overthrow it  
And charged me straight unto you to show it,  
To threaten you with judgement I was sent  
My errand I have said, repent, repent.   

If that a hand appear but on the wall  
Debauched Belshazers' countenance will fall  
His joints unloose, his knees together dash: 
Observe. from the Ninivits disponding as the judgement threatened by Jonah.   
When God puts forth his rod to scourge and slash.  
Oppressing Pharoahs' heart, it will come down  
When God in ferious manner begins to frown.  
Let churlish Nabal hear what might come on,  
His heart within him's cold like to a stone.  
The proud and lofty Ninivites do fear  
When God in threatened wrath doth but appear.  
The wicked, great, proud persecuting one's  
That naught regard the poor man's sighs and groans,  
If God come forth and bear his powerful arm  
And cause his trumpet, give them one alarm,  
When time is not and judgement cannot stay,  
Their hearts do faint, and fainting melt away  
Much more proud wretches when they once do feel  
The force and smart of his sharp-glitt'ring steel.   

The Ninivits no sooner heard the word  
And dreadful judgements threatened by the Lord,  
But they believe him and think he had sent  
Jonah to warn each person to repent.  
Wherefore they do agree with one accord  
To turn from sin unto the living Lord:  
And to prepare them fitly for the same  
A Solemn fast the people do proclaim;  
Of pleasant food they will not now partake  
Their jovial feasting they do now forsake;  
Of dainty delicates they taste no more  
Instead of mirth and music now they roar:  
Each face grows pale, and blackness now doth gather  
Instead of play and sports now they had rather  
Sat in the dust; with heavy sighs and groans  
And tears in eyes to heaven making moans:  
Their brave attire, and gorgeous rich array  
In which they proudly decked themselves each day  
Their broidered shining garments: and such things  
As hoods and cauls their jewels and their rings  
Are laid aside by all; and there is none  
That doth adventure now to put them on.  
Instead whereof they put dust on their head  
And sackcloth on each person now is spread  
Wherewith to  themselves now they think fit  
And all in sable wise in ashes sit.  
Their eyes distil; their cheeks are wet with tears  
And hearts no doubt, are swallowed up with fears.  
when Jona had scarce three days mongst them taught  
His sermons on them wonderfully wrought, 
Observe. from the Ninivits believing Jonah and humbling themselves.   
May be he preached three years in Israel  
And's Sermons never wrought on them so well  
when God puts forth his power men's hearts to reach  
They soon are touched with what his prophets preach  
And when they lie under a fearful sentence  
O then or never they fall to repentance,  
And then great present changes will be found  
Yet such repentances eaten seldom sound  
When men repent for fear or smart o'th' rod  
'tis more for love to self, then love to God.   

No sooner did this news arrive at court  
But then their king leaves of his princely sport,  
This mighty monarch glorious and high  
Descends the throne of his great majesty.  
His golden chain and kingly robe so royal  
He now puts off and puts on self denial,  
He rends his : and sits in ashes too  
And now the king doth as his subjects do.  
In heavy sackcloth he is humbly dressed  
Expressing grief thereby, as do the rest.   

This heathen king, 
Observe. from the heathens king's patiented reception of Jonah's sad tidings.  takes all full patiently  
Though judgement judgement still was Ionah's cry,  
He neither frets nor fumes, nor rails nor rages  
As others that have lived in clearer ages  
Who would imprison him that tidings brought  
Of their destruction, but he's better taught;  
May all in power and place learn to submit  
And hear the rod, and him that appointed it.   

Now with consent of all his nobles great  
That do attend upon his royal seat  
His privy Counsel great Assyrian Lords;  
With whom in this sad junto he accords.  
Be it enacted let it be decreed,  
That from this time not any one do feed  
On any thing their natures do sustain  
But from all kind of food they do refrain;  
Our pleasure is nor good nor bad they taste,  
So long as this our royal act doth last:  
Let all take notice both the great and least;  
Not men alone we say but every beast,  
And flock and heard that grazeth in the field,  
To gain the succour grass and herbs do yield;  
Shall taste no food nor water drink no more  
Until for pining want each beast doth roar.  
With bellowing cry: that they may us excite  
To lay aside all pleasures and delight  
To weep and wail, and mournfully lament  
Thereby to signify we do repent.   

O what is sin so much to be abhorred, 
Observe. from not only sinful man repenting but the beasts of the field mourning also.   
O it is sin so much provoks the Lord  
To punish man and beast; not man alone  
But for the sins of men the creatures groan.  
The sinless beast, nor need, nor can repent  
Yet with the sinner, needs they must lament:  
May sinful man stand then all in a maze,  
When on the sinless creature he doth gaze;  
Groaning with grief; for the just God therein  
Shows how he is displeased with men for sin.   

And further by the foresaid thority  
We do decree; and to all signify  
That every man put off his rich array,  
And every beast, his ornaments this day,  
This darksome day, wherein none can be glad  
Let man and beast in sackcloth rough be clad;  
And while that all thus sadly mourning ,  
Let every one to God lift up his cry  
With earnest powerful prayers, now make your suit  
For weak, nor feigned prayers now will not do't▪  
By sins we have displeased God on high  
And if he show not mercy we must die,  
We guilty are of many great offence,  
And most of all we have used violence  
Within this city; it cleaves to our hands  
Let's cleanse ourselves from it now he commands,  
And with our prayers & tears & outward mourning  
Let every of us from our sins be turning.   

When thus by king and Counsel 'twas decreed  
Signed and sealed, 
Observe. from the king's decree for repentance and haste to the execution thereof.  it hasts with winged speed  
It flies abroad and runs through every street  
Each tells another of it whom they meet,  
For why it was proclaimed in his name  
And heralds fit to execute the same;   

Where true repentance gods there goes confession▪  
Repentance true, ne'er goes without contrition;  
Self judging too, repentance doth call in  
Whereby t'escape God's judgements due for sin;  
Unfeigned prayer doth assistance lend,  
And reformation life for to amend,  
For where ●mendment, joins with hearty grief  
Hope may be had that it will bring relief.  
And carried on with strength of resolution  
To spend and hast the work to execution;  
The penitent he can no longer stay  
But meets an angry God half on his way,  
When God against him comes thoes' pace be flack  
He mends his pace, and runs to turn him back.   

But now behold what moved this heathen king  
To constitute, ordain, appoint this thing,  
It was not only thoughts of present fear  
But God in mercy also might appear,  
For who can tell, saith he, or who doth know,  
Whether this city he will overthrow  
If we persist not on but do repent;  
May be for this end Jona he was sent;  
Perhaps returning, we shall mercy find  
For I have heard to mercy he's inclined;  
We do not know therefore let us make trial,  
But if we turn from sin and be found loyal,  
But God may turn away from his fierce wrath  
And will repent of what the prophet hath  
Pronounced against us that we may not die,  
Although he says that he will us destroy.   

God's mercies great, 
Observe. from the Niniv●●s encouragement to turn of to God, because he is a merciful God.  they ●ave b●en eve● found  
Good ancre-hold for souls: hopes surest ground;  
Poor sinner; when at loss, then do make bold  
To grasp at mercy and there take fast-hold  
〈…〉 ●oul to save from horrid desperation,  
〈…〉 get a blessed expectation:  
〈…〉 means for to escape the fire  
〈…〉 ●nkindled wrath and burning ire)  
Mercy to find: yet 'tis but peradventur  
Thy soul had wasted all thy mercy lent-her,  
And now it's come to this, I do not know  
Whether I shall find mercy yea or no:  
What though it be to thee a doubtful thing,  
Thy soul into the hands of mercy fling,   

Concerning Niniveh see how't appears,  
Who now sit mourning all bedewed with tears,  
Nor mirth, nor music heard; not one is glad,  
But every one in hairy sackcloth clad;  
Yet this is judged to be the smallest part  
Of works that manifest a true convert:  
With it they turned from all their evil ways  
God saw they did it; and they did him please  
For 'tis not sorrow much nor protestation  
'Gainst sin that pleaseth God but reformation.   

The evils all God said he would do to them  
Are now removed, and turned away from them,  
They are suspended upon this condition  
That they amendment joined with contrition,  
For the most gracious God reputes of what  
He said that he would do, and does it not.   

Great is the force of faith and true repentance  
Though judgement pass, 
Observe. from God's forbearing to punish upon their turning to him.  it will reverce the sentence  
When sin is left that sinful souls beguiles,  
God's frowns are turned into pleasant smiles:  
His threatened judgements, often are suspended,  
When as the people threatened are amended.    

CHAP. IU.  
The Argument.  
How Jonah's angry cause the word  
He preached had not success,  
As he would have: God by a gourd  
Reproves his foolishness.  

BUt now when Jona saw the strange event  
His sermon had it made him discontent  
He now is angry and doth take displeasure  
His anger's great and doth excel all measure;  
He frets, he pets, he peevishly fume o● 〈◊〉 blu●  
Cause God does not, as he will have ●n● do  
For God reputes; the Syrians scaped his ●and,  
And enemies they'll be to Judah's land,  
May Jonah think; and so his country men  
Abundantly had fared better than  
If they had been destroyed; as was the word  
That Jonah preached to them from the Lord.   

Blind ●eal and carnal ends do oft misguide  
The best of men and cause them turn aside  
Time after time: 
Observe. frow Jonah's b●ing angry at the Lords sparing Niniveh.  their lust they will fulfil  
If God his actions steer not as they will;  
Self would be served whether God will or no,  
If God say yea self never will say so;  
Gods will and man's each other oft oppose,  
'Tis hard for man's with Gods will for to close.   

What this is strange, a prophet be displeased  
That towards a people God is now appeased,  
And shows them mercy whom he might destroy,  
Turning their days of mourning into joy.  
Can any soul but Ionas be offended,  
Instead of judgement to see grace extended?  
But that's not all: why Jonah he is crossed  
His fame, his name, and honour now is lost.  
To be a prophet false he is afraid  
Lest that among them such a thing be said;  
And now unto the Lord he doth address  
Himself by prayer that signifies no less:  
In it he doth the Lord his God accuse  
To be in fault, when as he did refuse  
To hear his voice at first: and did rebel  
Pleading as if thereby he had done well.   

Unbridled passion is a thing that will  
Transport the soul of men so long; 
Observe. from Jonah's casting his rebellious fault on God thinking to clear himself.  until  
God and themselves they totally forget  
And go beyond the bounds that reason set,  
And reasonless, they foolishly will reason  
And think 'tis loyalty, when 'tis but treason  
They think and speak, and act against the Lord  
Such fruits self-love and passion do afford.   

For this he says, I pray thee Lord hear me,  
While I expostulate the case with thee;  
Have I not cause to be in angry mood?  
Was any man so served that ever stood,  
His credit with thy glory to maintain?  
If none were so then well may I complain.  
Ere I went out of my own country dear,  
This was the very thing that I did fear:  
Not only fear it but I said it too,  
For why? I thought full well what thou wouldst do:  
Thou would not bring to pass what I must say,  
And preach and cry aloud at Niniveh.  
I thought full sure that thou wouldst soon repent  
Yet to denounce their doom I must be sent.  
I know O Lord what these men now do find  
That thou art gracious merciful and kind  
Full slack thou art, and slow paced unto wrath  
But winged speed always thy mercy hath;  
And if a people truly do lament,  
For sin, and do reform: thou wilt repent.  
Considering then it would not be avoided  
By heathen ones thy word would be derided  
And my ambassage too, they would despise  
And say I thundered out a heap of lies;  
For which so saying I must bear the blame  
And be called prophet false, to my great shame:   

This is the reason, it seems right to me  
Why formerly to Tarshish I did flee:  
And thou hast judged it for a heinous crime,  
But whose the fault, whether 'tis thine or mine.  
These things so sadly do my spirits grieve  
No earthly thing O Lord will me relieve:  
It is far better for me for to die,  
And in the dust in silent darkness lie  
Then longer live: sigh nothing but disgrace  
My portion is whilst I am in this place;  
I do beseech thee let my life expire  
And take it from me that is my desire.   

Thus when fond passion sways and goes uncurbed  
The minds of men thereby are soon disturbed  
Soon out of order gotten out of frame, 
Observe. from Jonah's pettish choosing death rather than life; because God did not act according to his mind.   
They glory in the things should be their shame.   

The Lord in patience all this while did bear  
With Jonah's angry passion: and did hear  
His words reflecting on his Majesty  
Yet like a loving father passes by  
His great offence: seeing him frais and weak  
Did thus in gentle manner to him speak.   

How now? what Jona? dar'st thou angry prove?  
Dost thou not think it will my patience move?  
How dar'st thou once presume to be so bold?  
Dost think with wickedness that I will hold?  
Or dost thou think that this is well in thee?  
Oh wondrous strange, what Jonah angry be?  
Did not my mercy, and my justice strive  
To kill thee, else for to keep thee alive?  
Hast thou forgot, how mercy did thee save,  
When justice would the whale should be thy grave?  
Mercy prevailed and thou canst not deny it,  
Then cease thine anger, canst thou justify it?  
Hast thou not learnt and been taught in the schools,  
That anger resteth in the best of fools.   

Thus God in goodness laboured to convince  
The pettish prophet of his foul offence, 
Observe. from God's patience and forbearance though provoked by Jonah.   
Imputing all to his infirmities  
As parents do to children whom they prise,  
Jonah is angry: yet it did not move  
God to be angry cause he did him love:  
So great is love: love, cannot find its like  
So great is love, love spares when it should strike:  
So great is love not easy to provoke,  
Love suffers long before it give one stroke;  
So great is love: so high and broad it grows,  
It covers sins; all, multitudinous.   

Now Jonah had a longing great desire  
To see th'vent, when th' forty days expire  
For at this time, he would not come to know  
Whether God would destroy them yea or no;  
Perhaps for one or other end God may  
The execution of the judgement stay  
For this a maxim is received of many  
Forbearance never yet acquitted any.   

Out of the city great and populous  
Jonah departs and now away he goes  
And when he came to th' east side of the town  
He goes not further but there sits him down;  
He makes a booth, and in it is his seat  
The shade thereof defends him from the heat,  
Until the truth of falsehood shall be tried  
Of his late message there he doth abide;  
But now perhaps soon after he comes thither  
His booth he made gins to dry and whither,  
The Country's hot, the sun with mighty heat  
On Jonah's head continually did beat  
By reason of which heat, his soul is grieved  
Then God in mercy, wills he be relieved.   

The Lord's a present help in time of trouble  
And mercy upon mercy he doth double  
And triple too: 
Observe. from God's compassion providing shelter to relieve Jonah.  always in time of need  
His power and pity is put forth with speed  
To save and secure his distressed one's  
His bowels yearn to hear their sighs and groans;  
Fear we not then in depths of misery,  
To help us then's his opportunity.   

For he then brought an herb out of the earth  
Turns Jonah's sorrow into pleasant mirth  
A mighty plant he quickly made to grow  
With boughs and branches on it high and low  
That they might shade and shelter him all over  
And from the scorching heat be Jonah's cover.   

Under the shadow of it he doth rest  
Thinking thereby that he is greatly blest  
Such great refreshment he hath lately found,  
In his new house springing out of the ground;  
He doth rejoice he is exceeding glad  
So great his joy is all the grief he had  
Sustained by reason of the heat before  
Seemeth as though he thought on it no more.   

A sudden change begets experience sad  
To day he mourns that yesterday was glad,  
His sudden joys are turned to sudden grief,  
His plant it dies, that gave him such relief.   

For now alas before he was ware  
In readiness a worm God did prepare  
Who with his sharp teeth and his cruel jaws,  
As bit with hunger, eagerly he gnaws  
Who smote the gourd, and now the gourd is dead  
And with it Jonah's joys are withered.  
Such is the nature of all earthly things  
Which for a while so great contentment brings  
They fade, they vanish, perish and decay: 
Observe. from the withering of Jonah's gourd, showing the fickle state of all things.   
With winged haste, theyare gone and pass away.  
theyare but a puff, a blast a watery bubble  
That soon is gone: or like a fiery stubble  
That in a moment, is consumed and passed,  
Or like a post, that on the way makes haste;  
Or like the dusky clouds that break before  
The sun appears and then are seen no more;  
Or like the flower or herb or fruit that's sown,  
That whither will as soon as it is mown;  
Or like the vapours drawn into the air  
Or like the thing that's gone when't doth appear.  
Such are the things in which men take such pleasure  
And too too much account their chiefest treasure  
The sweetest joys that are upon the earth  
Are dying still so soon as they draw breath,  
To day they are enjoyed; but ere to morrow  
They oft take wing and leave poor men to sorrow;  
They neither last nor cannot satisfy,  
As jonah by his gourd in part did try.  
The Sun arose and with it risen the wind  
From th' eastern quarter vehement, unkind,  
God had prepared it to rise wondrous high  
That he might Ionah's patience further try;  
The sun and wind they both conspire together  
To make it hot and very sultry weather,  
They beat on jonah: jonah he doth faint  
And breaks into this passionate complaint.   

My life's a burden to me, let me die  
For I have lived to see thee falsify  
Thy word and mine which is my daily trouble  
And yet O Lord thou dost my sorrows double;  
My body is afflicted as my mind  
Then life 'tis better for me death to find,  
O let me be shut up within the grave  
And closed in silent darkness: then I have  
That thing I wish and in myself desire,  
And cannot have it till my life expire.   

Man's days on earth most variously are spent  
Sometimes he's pleased, sometimes he's discontent, 
Observe. from Jonah's passionate complaint upon his sudden change.   
Sometimes his joys do mightily abound,  
E●e while again they cast him to the ground:  
For joy he laughs sometimes for sorrow weeps,  
Nor reason nor religions bounds he keeps;  
When man's transported with his lawless passion  
Not to Gods will but his own he will fashion  
Himself in all things be it good or bad,  
Anger, joy, sorrow, oft makes wise men mad.   

Then God replied to him a second time,  
Mine anger might arise as well as thine  
Than thou a greater cause I have besure,  
And yet my patience still it doth endure;  
So manifold affronts I have had fro' thee,  
Where judgement might yet mercy is showed to thee.   

Is this a thing worthy thy commendation?  
Angry to be after this dispensation,  
Didst thou regard my acts of providence  
Shamed thou wouldst be; to take so great offence  
At so small matter; is this well in thee  
To be displeased at what is done by me?  
How dar'st thou let thy anger rise so high  
As in it wish so desperately to die?   

Thus God with jonah argueth the case  
To bring his soul again into its place  
When we run from him he still seeketh us, 
Observe. from God's reasoning so lovingly with Jonah to bring his soul into its place and set him strait again.   
And saith return again; why is it thus?  
When man is minding naught but self concerns  
The wise and gracious God full soon discerns  
His swift destruction usherd in a pace,  
If not prevented by his special grace.  
Now Jonah answering said to God again  
My angry passion I will still maintain:  
My cause is good I can it justify,  
And if I angry be until I die  
Until my soul is from my body going  
'Tis well, and weldone by me for so doing.   

God's deal whether they are rough or mild  
Doth little good when passion groweth wild, 
Observe. from Jonah's ill use of God's gentle dealing with him; answering foolishly again.   
Nor sharp reproof nor exhortation kind,  
Will any kindly entertainment find:  
Where lust uncurbed goes, and gets the reins  
It bootless proveth for to use the means  
Of betterment; men thereby rather turn  
Away from God and at his counsel spurn.   

Once more the Lord replied, and to him said  
With thy own practice I will thee upbraid,  
What? hast thou not for thy own self much cared?  
And glad hadst been; if I the gourd had spared  
Hadst not thou pity on that fading thing?  
Which I out of the earths-large-womb did bring  
Up in one night without the help of day,  
And in one night it perished quite away:  
Thy labour on it thou didst not bestow  
No art nor skill of thine did make it grow.  
This plant this gourd, fain thou wouldst have preserved  
It pleasant was to thee: and so deserved  
Thy care and diligence to nourish it  
Sith in its shade thou didst delighted sit:  
Which was a thing of very small renown  
Compared with that great Assyrian town.   

What reason then that I should not take pity?  
Upon that famous, great, populous City,  
Wherein the little ones besides the old  
Were more than sixscore thousand fully told,  
All persons for their age unapt to learn  
'Twixt right and left hand they cannot discern.  
The cattles much, that doth about it feed,  
To be preferred before a stinking weed;  
I made them for my service and my use  
Yet me they did provoke by their abuse;  
To threaten judgement therefore thou wast sent;  
And when they heatd, they feared and did repent.  
How could I choose, but on them pity take?  
And show them favour for my mercy sake;  
For why in mercy thou know'st I abound  
And not them only but thyself hast found,  
As great forbearance at my gentle hand,  
When thou rebelled against my just command;  
And now like to a frantic furious fool  
Art discontent because I do not rule  
According to thy pleasure: not thy will  
But mine be done: thou oughtest it to fulfil;  
Then up, be gone, and get thee home with shame  
And study more to know my glorious name:  
Regard my voice, and answer when I call thee,  
And sin no more, lest a worse thing befall thee.    
FINIS.