Song of Solomon 8:1

O that thou wert as my brother Most intimate, and free, and familiar with me, as brethren and sisters commonly are; that sucked the breasts of my mother That came out of the same womb and sucked the same breasts, and were brother and sister by father and mother too: for such are generally most dear to one another. The intent of these expressions, and of those in the three following verses, is to signify the church's earnest desire of a stricter union, and more intimate fellowship with Christ. When I should find thee without, &c. In the open streets; I would kiss thee, &c. And thus express my affection to thee openly, without fearing any scandal or contempt; such expressions being usual among persons so nearly and dearly related.