פירוש על שיר השירים 8:7

Many waters cannot quench the love. Since he refers to them with an expression of coals, the term “cannot quench” is appropriate for them.⁸The pain and suffering that Bnei Yisroel endured throughout its many exiles, “cannot quench the love [for God],” which remains intact. (Sefer Dudaim)

If a man offered all of his wealth for love: All of his heart, soul, and might.

Many waters. The nations.

For love: To adhere to the shekhinah.

And rivers. Their princes and their kings.

He would be laughed to scorn: They will publicly offer him splendor and majesty,²⁰⁶The word buz is interpreted to mean “loot” or “bounty” rather than “scorn.” his head lifted in honor, and he will ascend to the highest level to be favored and accounted among those who receive the countenance of the divine Presence.

Cannot drown it. Through force or terror, or even through enticement and seduction.

If a man would give all the wealth of his house. In exchange for your love.

They would surely scorn him. On all these the Holy One, Blessed Is He, and His Tribunal,⁹Rashi adds, “and His Tribunal,” because the Verse following begins with “We...”, the plural form. (Sifsei Chachomim) testify that to this extent the congregation of Yisroel clings to her Beloved. Now—