Canticle of Canticles
This Book is called the Canticle of Canticles, that is to say, the most excellent of all canticles: because it is full of high mysteries, relating to the happy union of Christ and his spouse: which is here begun by love; and is to be eternal in heaven. The spouse of Christ is the church: more especially as to the happiest part of it, that is, perfect souls, every one of which is his beloved, but, above all others, the immaculate and ever blessed virgin mother.
The spouse aspires to an union with Christ, their mutual love for one another.
Christ caresses his spouse: he invites her to him.
The spouse seeks Christ. The glory of his humanity.
Christ sets forth the graces of his spouse: and declares his love for her.
Christ calls his spouse: she languishes with love: and describes him by his graces.
The spouse of Christ is but one: she is fair and terrible.
A further description of the graces of the church the spouse of Christ.
The love of the church to Christ: his love to her.