We have a young sister, and her breasts are not yet grown. What shall we do for our sister for the day she is spoken for? If she is a wall, we will build towers of silver on her. If she is a door, we will enclose her with panels of cedar. (Song of Songs 8: 8-9)

Scholars disagree about who is speaking. Whoever it is perceives the need to care for a younger sister.

Do they propose to close off or to attract?

The wall and door can each separate. But a silver tower would certainly attract. Transforming a simple door by enclosing it with elaborate paneling of aromatic wood might also be a signal of welcome.

What is the best strategy? Offence or Defense?

The goal is preparing for the day when she speaks or is spoken for, the day when her identity and purpose are fulfilled.

Above is from the Rothschild Canticle. The Virgin Mary stands atop a mountain with a flowering rod in her right hand with her left, gestures towards a flaming sun to the right, which shoots golden rays at her. Three men dance in adoration at the base of the mountain, while two others dance in the towers flanking the mountain.