Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Song of Solomon 4:6

Western Saints

Bede

I will go to the mountain of myrrh, etc. In myrrh is represented the mortification of the flesh, or the endurance of sufferings for the sake of piety; in incense, the high devotion of prayer is expressed. But the mountain of myrrh, and the hill of incense, represent the very loftiness of the mind of those who effectively overcome the struggle of the flesh, and fervently lift themselves to the love of heavenly things. …

Commentary on the Song of Songs ↗

Robert of Tombelaine

What do we understand by the mountain of myrrh, if not the strong height of mortification in work, and what by the hill of frankincense, if not the lofty humility in prayer? The bridegroom therefore goes to the mountain of myrrh and to the hill of frankincense, because he intimately visits those whom he perceives to be advancing to great heights through the mortification of vices and to be giving off a sweet fragrance through pure and humble prayers. …

Commentary on the Song of Songs, Chapter 4 ↗