Matthew Poole and continuators on Song of Solomon 7:13

13 The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gates are all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old , which I have laid up for thee , O my beloved.

This Hebrew word is used Gen. 30. 14, 15. and the signification of it is very much doubted and disputed by Interpreters; of which see my Latin Synopsis on that place. But this is certain that the word signifies sweet and pleasant flowers, and therefore if it be understood of Mandrakes, they were of another sort than ours, as it is no unusual thing for flowers of the same kind in several Climates to have very differing Natures and Qualities.

Either 1. Growing there upon the Walls, or in Gardens, or Orchards, near the door of our dwelling-House: Or rather 2. Brought thither by divers Persons to congratulate and adom our Nuptials, or laid up for our entertainment, as may be gathered from the nature of the fruits, which were not only new, and growing, but also old, and laid up, as it here follows.

Fruits of this year, and of the former, that the variety might delight. Which seems to be spiritually meant of the various fruits and operati[illegible: 1+ letters]ns of the Spirit, and degrees of Grace in several Believers.

Which have been produced by my Ministry for thy Service and Glory.