Matthew Poole and continuators on Song of Solomon 6:11

11 I went down into the garden of nuts , to see the fruits of the valley , and to see whether the vine flourished, and the pomgranats budded .

To wit, when I went away from thee. So this is an account of the reason of his former departure from her. Or, I am come down to visit thee, my garden, Cant. 4. 12. Either way these are the words of the Bridegroom.

In which Nuts and other fruits are planted. By Nuts may be meant either 1. Ordinary Nuts, and so this is supposed to intimate the mean and contemptible condition of the Church in her outward Estate, and that her sweetness is all inward and spiritual. Or 2. Aromatical Nuts, to wit, Nutmegs, and so this notes how acceptable the Church and her Productions are to Christ.

Which being low, and well watered, is most fruitful.

What beginnings or appearances there were of good fruits or works among Believers, whether their Practices answered their Professions.

Marginal references: Or, almonds.; Ch. 7. 12.