45:8 garments smell of myrrh. His human garments were first “swaddling clothes” (Luke 2:7), but then the Magi brought Him myrrh (Matthew 2:11). On the cross, they “parted His garments” after they had urged “Him to drink wine mingled with myrrh” (Mark 15:23-24). His burial garments were “linen clothes” anointed with “a mixture of myrrh and aloes” (John 19:39-40). When He returns out of the gleaming white walls and gates and palaces of the heavenly city, all His garments will smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia. The myrrh on His wedding garments interjects a brief reminder that His human life, death and burial were essential accomplishments before the great victory could be won over Satan and his hosts.

45:8 ivory palaces. These must be the beautiful “mansions” He has prepared for His loved ones (John 14:2).

45:8 whereby they have made thee glad. The word “whereby” could be interpreted as “stringed instruments” (Psalm 150:4). Apparently beautiful music accompanies the pleasant aromas associated with the wedding garments and resplendent ivory mansions, all contributing to the gladness of the King and His Bride.