Notes, Critical and Explanatory, on the Holy Scriptures

This is purely allegorical. The customs of the East entirely preclude the idea of a female traversing the streets by night. Jerusalem was emphatically called " the city."

The question is put without any introductory words, since it is easily understood to have been addressed by her to the city watchmen. Some take these to bo the prophets. Possibly the Jewish priests and doctors may be meant.

The seat. P. " covering."

The maidens are invited to behold king Solomon crowned l)y his mother Bethsabee, with a wreath of flowers, on the day of his marriage. This circumstance is introduced to express the share she took in his happiness. St. Gregory observes that the Blessed Mary, mother of Christ, is believed to have crowned Him with a diadem, since lie took our nature from her.