Chapter XXIV
pers. 31. then the children of Reuben, &c., answered repudiating, in the strongest terms, the alleged crime, and deponing that so far from entertaining the intention imputed to them, their only object was to perpetuate the memory of their alliance with Israel, and their adherence
Ver. 1. Joshua Assembling the Tribes. 1. Joshua gatliered all the tribes of Israel to Sliecliem—Anothet and final opportunity of dissuading the people against idolatry is here described as taken by the aged leader, whose solicitude on this account arose from his knowledge of the extreme readiness of the people to conform to the manners of the surrounding nations. This address was made to the representatives of the people convened at Shechem, and which had already been the scene of a solemn renewal of the covenant (ch. 8. 30, 35). The transactiOL now to be entered upon being in principle and object the same, it was desirable to give it all the solemn impressiveness which might be derived from the memory of the former ceremonial, as well as from other sacred associations of the place (Genesis 12. 6, 7; 3S. 18-20; 35. 2-4). they presented themselves before God—It is generally assumed that the ark of the covenant had been transferred on this occasion to Shechem; as on extraordinary emergencies it was for a time removed (Judges 20. 1-18; I Samuel 4. 3; 2 Samuel 15. 24). But the statement, not necessarily implying this, may be viewed as expressing only the religious cliaracter of tlie ceremony. [Hengstenberg.]
to the worship of Israel's God.
30-34. The Deputies Satisfied. 33, 34. it pleased them—The explanation not only gave perfect satisfaction
to the deputies, but elicited from them expressions of unbounded joy and thankfulness. "This day we perceive that the Lord is among us," i. e., by His gracious presence and preventing goodness, which has kept you from falling into the sbspected sin, and rescued the nation from the calamity of a fratricidal war or providential judgments. This episode reflects honour upon all parties, and shows that piety and zeal for the honour and worship of God animated the people that entered Canaan to an extent far beyond what was exemplified in many other periods of the history of Israel.
"Ver. 1, 2. Joshua's Exhortation Before His Death.
I. a Ions; time after the Lord had given rest nnto Israel from all their enemies—about fourteen years after the conquest of Canaan, and seven after the distribution of that country among tlie tribes. 2. Joshna called for all Israel—the clause which follows seems to restrict this general expre-ssion as applicable only to the officers and representatives of the people. The place of assembly was most probably Shiloh. Tlie occasion of convening it was the extreme age and approaching deatli of the venerable leader; and the purport of this solemn address was to animate the chosen people and their posterity to a faith-
2-13. Relates God's Benefits. 2. Joshua said unto the people—His address briefly recapitulated tlie principal proofs of the Divine goodness to Israel from the call of Abraham to their happy estaljlishment in tlie land of promise; and showed tliem that they were indebted for their national existence as well as their peculiar privileges, not to any merits of their own, but to the free grace of God. your fathers dwelt on tlie otlier side of the tlood—The Euplirates, viz., at Ur. Terah, the father of Abraham and the father of IVahor—(see on Genesis 11.
ful and unswerving continuance in the faith and worship of the God of Israel.
27.) Tliough Terah had three sons, Nahor only is mentioned with Abraliam, as the Israelites were descended from him on the mother's side through Reljekaii and lier nieces, Leah and Rachel, sen'cd other gods—Conjoin-
3. By Former Benefits. Ye have seen all that the I.ord your God hath done nnto all these nations hecause of yon—The modesty and humility of Joshua are remarkably displayed at the commencement of this address. Sinking all thoughts of his personal services, he ascribed the subjugation and occupation of Canaan entirely to tlie favouring presence and aid of God; and in doing so, he spoke not more piously than truly. This had l)een promised (Deuteronomy 1.30; 3.22); and the reality of the Divine aid was seen in the rapid overthrow of the Canaanites, which had already led to the division of the whole land amongst the tril)es.
ing, like Laban, the traditional knowU<lge of the true God with the domestic use of material images (Genesis
31. 19, 34). 3. I took your father Al)raliam from the other side of the tlood, and led him throiiglxout all the land of Canaan—It was an irresistible impulse of Divine grace which led the patriarch to leave his country and relatives, to migrate to Canaan, and live a "stranger and pilgrim" in that land. 4. I gave unto Esau mount Selr—(see on Genesis 36. 8, 9.) In order tiiat lie might be no obstacle to Jacob and his posterity being the exclusive heirs of Canaan. 13. I sent the hornet before you—
5-11. By Promises. The Lord your God, he shall expel them from before you, as the Lord your God has promised you, &c.—The actual possessions which God had given were a pledge of the complete fulfilment of His promise In giving them the parts of the country still unconqnered. But the accomplishment of the Divine prom-
particular species of wasp which swarms in warm coun-
tries, and sometimes assumes the scourging chara'ter of a plague, or, as many think, it is a figurative expiession
for uncontrollable terror (Exodus 23. 27, 28). 14-38. IVow therefore fear the Lord, and serve liim in sincerity andtjnith—After having enumerated so many groun<i3
ise depended on their inviolable fidelity to God's law—on their keeping resolutely aloof from all familiar intercourse and intimate connections with the Canaanites, or In any way partaking of their Idolatrous sins. In the event of their continuing in steadfast adherence to the cause of God, as happily distinguished the nation at that time. His blessing would secure them a course of brilliant and easy victories (Leviticus 28. 7; Deuteronomy 28. 7; 32.
for national gratitude, Joshua calls on them to declare, in a pulilic and solemn manner, whether they will be faitli-
ful and obedient to the God of Israel. He avowed tliis to be his own unalterable resolution, and urges them, if they were sincere in making a similar avowal, "to put away the strange gods that were among them"—a requirement which seems to Imply that some were .suspected of a strong hankering for, or concealed practice of, the idolatry, whether in the form of Zabaism, the fire-worship of their Chaldean ancestors, or the grosser superstitions of the Canaanites. 36. Joslnia wrote these words in the books of the law of God—Registered the engagements of that solemn covenant in the book of sacred history, took a great stone—According to the usage of ancient times to erect stone pillars as monuments of puhlk^ trans-
80). 11. Take good heed, therefore, that ye love the Ijordyour God—The sum of his exhortation is comprised in the love of God, which Is the end or fulfilment of the law (Deuteronomy 6. 5; 11. 13; Matthew 22. .37).
12. By TIIRKATKNINGS in case of DlSOnEDIENCE. 13. El»e If ye do In any wise go back, and cleave to the remnant of those nations—By "going back'" is meant transgression of the Divine law; and as marriage connections witli the Idolatrous Canaanites would present many and strong temptations to transgress it, tliese were strictly
actions, set It up under an oak—Or terebinth, in all likelihood, the same as that at the root of wlilch Ja(«h burled the Idols, and charms found in uis family, tlutt 157
prohibited (Exodus Hi. 12-16; Deuteronomy 7. 3). With his eye, as It were, upon those prohibitions, Joshua threatens
The Acts of Judah and Simeon. JUDGES I. Adoni-hczek PunuUeA.
Tras by the sanctuary of tlie Lord—Either the spot where the ark had stood, or else the place around, so called
honour. " Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Joshua." 3'-J.
£i-om that religious meeting as Jacob named Beth-el tlie house of God.
tlie bones of Joscpli—They had carried these venerable relics with them in all their migrations through the desert, and deferred the burial, according to the dying charge of Joseph himself, till they arrived in the promised land. The sarcophagus, in which his mummied body had been put, was brought thither by the Israelites, and probably buried when the tribe of Ephraim had obtained their settlement, or at the solemn convocation described in this chapter, in a parcel of ground wliicU Jacob bougJit for an Hundred pieces of silver Kvsitah, translated, " piece of silver," is supposed to mean a lamb, the weights being in the form of lambs or kids, which were, in all probability, the earliest standard of value among pastoral people. The tomb that now covers the spot is a Mohammedan Wclce, but there is no reason to doubt that the precious deposit of Joseph's remains may be concealed there at the present time. 33. Eleazar the son of Aaron died, and they buried him in iiioiuit Ephraim—The sepulchre is at the modern village Awertah, which, according to Jewish travellers, contains the graves also of Ithamar, the brother of Phiuehas, the son of Eleazar. [Van de Velde.]
14-;J3. His Age and Death. 30, 30. Joslma died—
Ijightloot computes tliat he lived seventeen, others twenty-seven years after the entrance into Canaan. He was buried, according to the Jewish practice, within the limits of his own inheritance. The eminent public serv-
ices he had long rendered to Israel, and the great amount of domestic comfort and national prosperity he had been instrumental in ditTiising among the several tribes, were deeply felt—wei'e universally acknowledged ; and a testimonial ill the form of a statue or obelisk would have been immediately raised to his honour, in all parts of the land, had such been the fashion of the times. The brief but noble epitaph by the historian is, Joshua, " the servant of the Lord.' 31. Israel served tlie Lortl all tlie days of .fosliiia—The high and commanding cliaracter of this eminent leader, had given so decided a tone to the sentiments and manners of his contemporaries, and the memory of his fervent piety and many virtues continued so vividly impressed on the memories of the people, that the sacred historian has recorded it to his immortal
THE BOOK OF JUDGES.
CHAPTER' I.
have been a foul stain on the character of the JsrAelltea,
if there were not reason for lielleving it was done by them as an act of retributive justice, and as such it was regarded
Ver. 1-3. The Acts of Judah and Simeon. 1. Now after tlie death of .Joshua—Probably not a long period, for the Canaanites seem to have taken advantage of that fevent to attempt recovering their lost position, and the Israelites were obliged to renew the war. tlie children of Israel asUed tlie Lord—The Divine counsel on this, as on (It her occasions, was sought by Urim and Tliumniim, by applying to tlje liigli priest, who, according to Josephus, WHS Phineiias. saying, AVho sliall go up for us against tlie Canaanites first-The elders, wlio exercised the government in llieir respective tribes. Judged rightly, that in entering upon an important expedition, they Bhould have a leader nominated by Divine appointment, and in consulting the oracle, they adopted a prudent course, wliether the object of their inquiry related to the choice of an individual commander, or to tlie honour of prei-edency among tlie tribes, a. tlie Lord snid, .Tudnh shall go up—The predicted pre-eminence (Genesis 49.8) was tlius conferred upon Judah by Divine direction, and Its aiipointinent to lalce the lead in the ensuing liostilitles was of great importance, as the measure of success by which its arms wi^re crowned, would animate the other tribe s to make slinilar attempts against the Canaanites williin tlieir respective territories. I Iia\c delivered tite land into liis Itnnd—not the whole count!-y, Iml (he district assigned lor liis inheritance. 3. .Jiuliili Niii<l unto Simeon, fome up witli me, that >vc may KiglK itgnlnst tlic <'at«aanlte«—I{eing conterminous tril)es (Joslma 1!). i,
bj' xVdoni-bezek himself, whose conscience read his alioclous crimes in their punishment. 7. threescore and ten Icings—So great a number will not appear strange, when it is considered that anciently every ruler of a city or large town was called a king. It is not improbable that in that southern region of Canaan, there might, in earlier times, have been even more till a turbulent chief like Adoiii-bezek devoured tlieni in his insatiable ambition. 8. Now tlie children of .ludah had fought against •Terusalem, and had taken it—The capture of this important city, which ranks among the early incidents iu the war of invasion (Joshua 15. 63), is here noticed to account for its being in the possession of the Judaliiti s ; and they brought Adoiii-be/.ek thither, in order, probably, that his fate being rendered so public, might Inspire terror far and wide. Similar inroads were made into the other uuconquered parts of Judah's inheritance. The stcn-y of Caleb's acquisition of Hebron is here repeated (Joshua 15.
in-lil). 10. tbe children of the Kcnite, Moses' father. In-law, went up out of the city of palm trees with the cliildren of .Tudali—Called the Kenlfe, as probably descended froni the people of that name (Numbers 24. 21,
22). If he might not liiniself, his posterity did accept the invitation of Moses (Numbers 10. 32) to accompany the Israelites to ('anaan. Their lirst encaminnent was iu the "city of palm trees"—not Jericho, of course, which was utterly destroyed, but the surrounding district, perhaps Kn-gedi, in early times called Hazczon-tamar (Genesis 11.7), from the palm-grove which sheltered it. Thence they removed from some unknown cause, and associating thems(>lves with .ludali, Joined in an expedition against Arad, tn the southern \k\v\ of Canaan (Numbers 21. 1). On the coiKiuest of that disli iet, some of this jiastoral iieople pitched their tents there, while others migrated to the north (eh. A. 17). 17-a!). and .ludali went wHli Simeon his Itrother—The course of the narrative is liere rosum<'(l fi'om V. !», and an aceount given of Judah retnrniin the services of Simeon (i>. ;>), by aiding In the prosecution of the war within the nelghl)ouring tribes, slew tL« f'agiaanites that iiilinbited Zephatli—or /,i>;ihntliali ('i Chronicles 11. 10), a valley lying In the southern portiou
2), thi'y had a common interest, and were naturally associated in this enterprise.
•1-21. Adoni-ukzkk Justly Requite n. Ileack—This place lay witliin the domain of Judah, alioiit twelvt; miles BOUtli of Jerusalem. .'». found Adoni-he/.elt—t. r., lord of Bezek—he was "found," i. c, surprised and roiit^-d in a pitched battle, whence he lied; but being taken prisoner, he was treated v. ith a severity unusual among the Israi-IItes, I'or they "ciitod' his thumbs and gieal toes." I'.arbariliesof vai'loiis kinds were commonly practised on prisoners of wa,i' in ancient times, and I he ohjeclof this particular mutilation of the hands and feel was to disable them for military service ever afcer. The Inl1letif)n of sue) 1 a horrid cruelty or this Canaanlle elili l, would 158
An Angel Rebukes the Peopie. JUDGES rr, III. Wickedness of the 27cw Generation.
of Canaan. H ormail—destroyed in lulfllment of an earlyvow of the Israelites (see on Numbers 21. 1-:!). The con-
revival wjliich this scene of emotion held out, was, ere long, blasted ny speedy and deeper relapses into the guilt of defection and idolatry. 6-10. and when Joshua had let the people go—This passage is a n i)etition of Joshua
federate tribes pursuing their incursions in that quarter, came successively to Gaza, Askelon and Kkron, which they took. But the Philistines seem soon to liave regained possession of these cities. 19. tlic Lioi-rt was with Jnclali ; but tliey could not drive out tlie inliabHaiits of U»e valley—Tlie war was of the Lord, whose omnipotent aid would have ensured their success in every encounter, wliether on the mountains or the plains, with
24. 20-31, and it was inserted here to put the reader in possession of the reasons which called forth so strong and severe a rebuke from the angel of the Lord. During the lifetime of tlie first occupiers, who retained a vivid recollection of all the miracles and judgments which tliey had witnessed in P]gypt and the desert, the national character stood high for faith and piety. But, in course of time, a new race arose who were strangers to all the hallowed and solemnizing experience of their fathei's, and too readily yielded to the corrupting influences of tlie idolatry that surrounded them.
foot soldiers or cavalry. It was distrust—the want of a simple and firm reliance on the promise of God—that made them afraid of the iron chariots (see on Joshua 11.
4-9). 21, tlic clilldreu of Benjamin did not drive out the .Tetjusltes that inhabited Jenisalem—Judali had expelled the people from their part of Jerusalem {v. 8). The border of the two tribes ran through the cit.v—Israelites and natives must have been closely intermingled.
11-19. Wickedness of the New Generation after Joshua. 11-19. the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord—This chapter, together with the first eight verses of tlie next, contains a brief but compreliensive summary of the principles developed in tlie following history; and an attentive consideration of them, therefore. Is of the greatest importance to a riglit understanding of the strange and varying pliases of Israeli tisli history, from the death of Joshua till the estaljiisliment of the monarchy, served Baalim—Tlie plural Is used to Include all the gods of the country. 13. Aslxtaroth—Alsoa plural word, denoting all the female divinities, wliose rites were celebrated by the most gross and revolting impuri-
22-20. Some Canaanites Left. 23, 23. tl»e Iiouse of Joseph—the tribe of Ephraim, as distinguished from Manasseh {v. 27). 34. the spies said, Show ns the entrance into the city i. e., the avenues to tlie city, and the weakest part of the walls, we will show tliec mercy —The Israelites might employ these means of getting possession of a place which was divinely appropriated to them: they might promise life and rewards to this man, though he and all the Canaanites were doomed to deBtruction (Joshua 2. 12-14); but we may assume tlie promise was suspended on his embracing the true religion, or quitting the country, as he did. If they had seen him to be firmly opposed to either of these alternatives, they would not have constrained him by promises any more than by threats to betray his countrymen. But if tliey found him disposed to be serviceable, and to aid the invaders in executing the will of God, they miglit promise lo spare him. L.uz—(.Sea on Genesis 12.8; 28. 13.) a7-3C. The same course of subjugation was carried on in the other tribes to a partial extent, and with varying success. Many of the natives, no doubt, during the progress of tliis exterminating war, saved themselves by flight, and became.
ties. 14. the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he delivered them into the hands of the spoilers tliat spoiled titem—Adversities in close and rapid succession befell them. But all these calamities were designed only as chastisements—a course of correctional discipline by which God brouglitHis people to see and repent of their errors; for as they returned to faitli and allegiance. He " raised up judges " (u. 16), which delivered tiiem out of the itand of those that spoiled them—Tlie judges who governed Israel were strictly God's vicegerents in the government of the people. He being tlie supreme ruler. Those who were thus elevated retained the dignity so long as they lived ; but tliere was no regular, unbroken succession of judges. Individuals, prompted by the inward, irresistible impulse of God's Spirit, wiien tliey witnessed the depressed state of their country, were roused to achieve
It Is thought, the first colonists in Greece, Italy, and otlier countries. But a large portion made a stout resistance, and retained possession of,their old abodes in Canaan. In other cases, when the natives were vanquished, avarice led the Israelites to spare the Idolaters, contrary to the express command of God ; and their disobedience to his orders in this matter involved them in many troubles which this book describes.
its deliverance. It v.'as usually accompanied by a special
call, and the people seeing them endowed with extraordinary courage or strength, accepted them as delegates of Heaven, and submitted to their sway. Frequently they were appoiiilcd only for a particular district, and tlieir autliority extended no farther than over the people wliose interests tliey were commissioned to protect. They were witliout pomp, equipage, or emoluments attached to the
Ver. 1-10. An Angel, Sent to Rebuke the Peoi'le at BOCHIM. 1. an angel came from Gilgal to Bochlm— We are Inclined to think, from the authoritative tone of his language, that he was the Angel of the Covenant (Kxodus23. 20; Joshua 5. 14); the same who appeared in human form and announced himself captain of the Lord's host. UIr coming from Gilgal had a peculiar significance, for there the Israelites madeasolemn dedication of themselves to God on their entrance into the promised land; and the memory of that religious engagement, which the angel's arrival from Gilgal awakened, gave empliatic force to his rebuke of their apostasy. Bochim, " the woeper^*," was a name bestowed evidently In allusion to tliis incident or the place, which was at or near Shiloh. I said, X will never break my covenant with yo>i . . . but ye have not obeyed my voice—The burden of tlie angel's remonstrance was that God would inviolably keep His promise; but they by their flagrant and repeated breaches of their covenant with Him, had forfeited all claim to the Btipulated benefits. Having disobeyed the will of God by voluntarily courting the society of Idolaters, and placing themselves In the way of temptation. He left tliem to suf-
office. They had no power to make laws; for these were given by God ; nor to explain them, for that was the province of the priests—but they were officially uiiholders of the law, defenders of religion, avengers of all crimes, particularly of idolatry and Its attendant vices.
Ver. 1-4. Nations Left to Prove Israel. 1. These are the nations which the Lord left to prove Israel This was the special design of these nations lieing left, and it evinces tlie direct Influence of the theocracy under which the Israelites were placed. These nations were left for a double purpose: In the flrst instance, to be instrumental, by their inroads. In promoting the moral and spiritual discipline of the Israelites—and also to subserve
tlie design of making them acquainted with Wiir, in order that the young, more especially, who were total strangers to it, might learn the use of weapons and tlie art of wielding them.
5-7. P.YCOMiMUNION WITH THESE THE ISIIA l;l,IT HH COMMIT Idolatry. .5-9. The chihlren of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites— The two classes by dcurees came to be on habits of Intercourse; reciprocal alliaiict* were formed by marriage, till the Israelites, rela.xing tiie austerity of their principles, (ihowed a growing coufor-
fer tlie punishment of their misdeeds. 4, .5. When the uigrl of tl»e I>ord spake these words, the people lifted up their voice and wept— The angel's expostulation mwlo a deep and painful impression. But tlie reformation wa« but temporary, and the gratifying promise of a
Ehud Slays Eglon. JUDGES IV. Deborah and Baiai Deliver Israel
mity to the manners and worship of their ulolatrous neighbours.
region, which, adjoining the territory of Benjamin, had probably sufrere<l most from the grievous oppression of the Moabites. 28. they went down after him, and took the fords—(See on Joshua 2. 7) with the view of preventing all escape to the Moabite coast, and by tlie slaughter of 10,000 men, rescued his country from a state of ignominious vassalage. 31. after liim was Shamgar—No notice is given of the tribe or family of this judge-, and from the Philistines being the enemy that roused him into public service, the suffering seems to have been local—confined to some of the western tribes, slew a hundred men with an ox-goad—This instrument is eight feet long, and about six inches in circumference.
8-11. Othniei, Delivers Israel. 8-11. sold tliem—
t". e., delivered theiu into the hand of Cliuslian-risliathaim, or Chushan " tlie wiclied." This name had been probably given him from his cruel and impious cliaracter. sen-ed Clinsliaii-risUatliaim elglit years—By tlie payment of a stipulated tribute yearly; the raising of wliicli must have caused a great amount of labour and privation. 9. Aviseii the children of Israel cried unto tlie Lord—In their distress tliey had recourse to earnest prayer, accompanied by humble and penitent confession of their errors. Othnlel—(See on Josliua 15. 17; ch. 1. 1'^.) His military expetience qualified liim for the work, while the gallant exploits he was known to have performed, gained him the
It is armed at the lesser end with a sharp prong for driving the cattle, and on the other with a small iron paddle for removing the clay which encumbers the plough in working. Such an instrument, wielded by a strong arm, would do no mean execution. We may sup- « pose, however, for the notice is very fragmentary, that Shamgar was only the leader of a band of peasants, who by means of such implements of labour as they could lay hold of at the moment, achieved the heroic exploit recorded.
full confidence of liis countrymen in liis ability as a leader. 10. Tlie Spirit of tlie Lord came upon Iilm, and lie judged Israel, and went out to war—Impelled by a supernatural influence, lie undertook the difficult task of government at this national crisis—addressing himself to promote a general reformation of manners, the abolition of idolatry, tlie revival of pure religion, and then, after these preliminary measures, he collected a body of choice warriors to expel the foreign oppressors, the Lord delivered Chuslian-risliathalm king of Mesopotamia Into his Iinnd, and his hand pret-alled against Chushan—No details are given of this war, whicli, considering the resources of so potent a monarch, must liave been a determined struggle. But tlie Israelitisli arms were crowned through the blessing of God with victory, and Canaan regained its freedom and independence. 11. Othnlcl died—How powerful the i nflueiice of one good man is, in church or state, is best found in his loss. [Bishop Hall.]
Ver. 1-17. Deborah and Barak Deliver Israel from Jabin and SiSERA. 1. The children of Israel again did evil in the siglit of the Lord, when Ehud was dead The removal of this zealous judge again left his infatu* ated countrymen without the restraint of religion. !9. Jabin, king of Canaan—Jabin, a royal title (.Toshua II.
1). The second .Jabin built a new capital on the ruins of the old (Joshua 11. 10, 11). The northern Canaanltes had recovered from the effect of their disastrous overthrow in the time of Joshua, and trinmphed in their turn over Israel. This was the severest oppression to which Israel had been subjected. But it fell heaviest on the tribes in the north, and it was not till after a grinding servitude of twenty years they were awakened to view it as the pnni.shment of their sins, and to seek deliverance from Ood. 4. Deborah, a prophetess—A woman of extraordinary knowledge, wisdom, .and piety, instructed in Divine knowledge by the Spirit, and accustomed to interpret His will; who acquired an extensive infiuence, and was held In universal respect, insomuch that she became the animating spirit of the government, and discharged
12-30. Ehud .Slays Eglon. 1^14. the children of Israel did evil again in tlie sight of the Lord—The Israelites, deprived of the moral and political influences of Othniel, were not long in following their native bias to idolatry, the Lord strengthened Kglon, king of Moab—The reigning monarch's ambition was to recover that extensive portion of his ancient territory possessed by the Israelites. In conjunction with his neighbours, the Ammonites and the Amalekites, sworn enemies of Israel, he first subjected the eastern tribes, then crossing the .lordan, made a sudden incursion on western Canaan, and in virtue of his conquest.s, erected fortifications in the territory .adjoining Jericho [Josephus], to secure the frontier, and fixed his residence there. This oppressor was permitted, in the providence of God, to triumph for eighteen years. 15. Ehud, son of Gcra i. e., descended from Gera, one of Benjamin's sons (Genesis 40. 21). lefthanded—This peculiarity distinguished many in the BenJamite tribe (eh. 20. 16). But the original word is rendered in some v(>rsions " l)oth-handed," a viewcounten.mced by
all the special duties of a judge, except that of military leader. 4. wife of Lapidoth —rendered by some "a woman of splendours." 5. she dwelt under the pnim tree-Or, collectively, palm grove. It is common still in the East to administer justice in the open air, or under the canopy of an umbrageous tree. 6. she sent and called Barak—By virtue other official authority as judge. Kedesli-naphtali—Situated on an eminence, a little north of the Sea of (Galilee, and so called to distinguish it from another Kedesh in Issachar. hath not the Lord of Israel commanded—A Hebrew form of making an emphatic comniunication. go and draw toward Mount Taboi^ an Isolated mountain of Galilee, north-east corner of the plain of Esdraelon. It was a convenient pla(ui of rendezvous, and the enlistment Is not to be considered as limited to 10,000, though a smaller force wouVl have been Inadofiuate. 8. Itrirak said unto her. If thou wilt go witik me, then I will go—His somewhat singular reiiuest lo be accompanied by Deborah was not altogether the result of weakness. The Orientals always take what Is dearest to the battle-field along with them; they think It makes them fight bettor. The policy of Barak, then, to have the presence of the prophetess Is perfectly Intelligible, as It would no less stimulate the valour of the troops, than sanction. In the eyes of Israel, the uprising against nn oppressor so powerful as Jabin. 9. the Lord shall sell Sisern Into the hand of a woman—Tills was a prediction which Barak could not understand at the time; but tlie strain of It conveyed a rebuke of his unmanly fears. 11. now Ileber the Kenlfe pitched his tent— It Is not uncommon, even In the present day, for pastoral tribes to
1 Chronicles 12.2. l»y him the chililren of Israel sent a present unto Kglon, the king of Moab—that Is, the yearly tribute, which, according to Eastern fashion, would
be borne with ostentatious ceremony, and offered (t>. 18) by sever.al messengers. 1(5. Kliud made him a dagger, and he did gird It upon his right thigh—The sword was usually worn on the left side; so that Ehud's was the more likely to escape detection. 19. quarries Rather graven linages (Deuteronomy 7. 2.'> ; .leremlali 8. 19; 51.52); statues of Moablto Idols, the sight of which kindled the patriot l(r zeal of Ehud to avenge t ills pulillc insult to Israel on its author. I have a secret errand unto thee, O king; who said, Keep silence—"Privacy"—
signal for all to withdraw. !40. a summer parlour— Heh., "chamber of cooling"—one of those retired edifices which Oriental grandees usually have In their gardens, and In which they repose during the heat of the day. Khiid put forth hU hand—The whole clrcumstaneo of this daring act—the death of Eglon without n shriek, or nolsetlie locking of the doors—the carrying ofj' the key —the calm, unhurried deportment of Ehud—show the strength of his confidence that ho was doing Ood service. 27. he l>lew a trumpet In the mount of Rphrnim —Summoned to arms the people of that mountainous 160
Death of Sinera JUDGES V. Song of Deborah and Bai'ak.
feed their flocks on the extensive commons that lie in the neart of inliabited countries in the East (see on ch. 1. 16). plain of ZnanaJm—This is a mistranslation for "theoalis of the wanderers." The site of the encampment was under a grove of oaks, or terebintlis, in tlie upland valley of Kedesh. 13. tine river of Kislion The plain on its tiank was chosen as ttie battle-field by Sisera himself, who was nnconsclously drawn thitlier for the ruin of his army. 14. Barak went <Io%viifroin Mount Tabor—It is a striking proof of the full confidence Barak and his troops reposed in Deborah's assurance of victory, that they reUnquislied their advantageous position on tlie hill, and rushed into the plain in face of the iron chariots they so much dreaded. 15. tlie Lord discomfited Sisera—iJo-ft., threw his army into confusion ; men, horses, and chariots being intermingled in wild confusion. The disorder was produced by a supernatural panic (see on ch. 5. 20). so
In this song of praise, xvhite asses—Those which are purely white are higlily prized, and being costly, are possessed only by the wealthy and great. "Ye tliat sit iu judgment," has been rendered, "ye tliat repose on tapes
tries." 11. The wells which are at a little distance from towns in the East, are, in unsettled times, places of dan-
ger. But in peace they are scenes of pleasant and joyous
resort. The poetess anticipates that tliis song may be sung, and "the rigliteous acts of tlie Lord rehearsid," at these now tranquil "places of drawing water." Deborali now rouses herself to describe. In terms suitable to the occasion, the preparation and the contest, and calls in a flight of poetic enthusiasm on Barak to parade his prisonei's in triumphal procession. Then follows a eulogistic enumeration of the tribes which raised the commanded levy, or volunteered tlieir services — the soldiers of Ephraim who dwelt near tlie mount of the Amalekites, the small quota of Benjamin; "tlie governors," valiant leaders "out of Macliir," the western Maiiasseh ; and out of Zebulun. the rod of the numberers—those who mail* up and kept the muster-rolls; and the princes who, with impetuous alacrity, ruslied on with Baralc to tlie cliarge in the plain. Then comes a reproachful notice of the tribes which did not obey the summons to take tlie field against the common enemy of Israel. By the "divisions," i, €., the water-courses which descend from the eastern hills unto the Jordan and Dead Sea. by the streams of Kenbcn great were the resolves—They felt the patriotic impulse, and determined, <at first, to join the ranks of their western brethren, but resiled from the purpose; preferring their peaceful sliepherd songs to the trumpet sound of war. 17. Gilead abode beyond Jordan— i. e., both Gad and the eastern half of Slaiiauseli chose to dwell at ease in their Ilavoth-jair, or villages of tents, while Dan and Aslier, both maritime tribes, continued with tlieir ships and in their "breaches" (liavcns). The mention of these craven tribes is concluded {v. 18) with a fresh burst of commendaticm on Zei)u!un and Naphtali. 19-3:3. describes the scene of battle, and the issue. It would seem (v. 19), that Jabin was rcint'orct d liy the troops of otlier Canaanite princes. Tlie batllc-field was near Taanach (now Ta'annuk), on a tell or mound in the level plain of Megiddo (now Leijun), on its soutliwestern extremity, by the left bank of the Kishon. they took no gain of money—they obtained no plunder, tlie stArs In their courses fought—A fearful tempest burst upon them, and thi'ew tliem into disorder, the riv er of Kishon swept them away —The enemy was defeated' near "the waters of Megiddo"—the sources and side streams of the Kishon: they that fled had to ci'oss tiie deep and marshy bed of the torrent, but the Lord had sent
f that Sisera llglited down off Ills cliariot, and fled away on Ills feet—His chariot being probably distinguished by
Its superior size and elegance, would betray the rank of
Its rider, and he saw therefore that his only chance of escape was on foot. 16. but Barak pursued uuto Harogheth— broken an«i routed, the main body of Sisera'a army fled northward, others were forced into the Kishon and drowned (see on ch. 5. 21).' 17, IS. Slsei-n fle<l to the tent of Jael—According to the usages of nomadic people, the duty of receiving the stranger In tlie slieick's absence devolves on his wife, aud the moment the stranger Is admitted into Ills tent, his claim to be defended or concealed from his pursuers is established. 19. she gave htm drink, and covered him—Sisera reckoned on this asa pledge of his safety, especially in the teutof a friendly sheick ; this pledge was the strongest that could be sought or obtained, after he had partaken of refreshments, and been introduced in the inner or women's apartment. 20. He said unto lier. When any man doth tiKjulre of thee. Is there any man here ? thou slmlt say, ISo—The privacy of the harem, even in a tent, cannot lie intruded on without express permission. 31. then J«el took a nail of the tent—Most probably one of th" pins with which the tent ropes are fastened to the ground. Kscape was almost impossible for Sisera. But the taking of his
life by the hand of Jael was murder. It was a direct violation of all the notions of honour aud friendship that are usually held sacred among pastoral people, and for which it is impossible to conceive a woman in Jael's circumstances to have had any motive, except that of gaining favour with the victors. Though predicted by Deijorah,
It was the result of Divine foreknowledge only—not the Divine appointment or sanction ; and tliougli it is praised In the song, the eulogy must be oonsiilered us pronounced not on the moral character of the woman and her deed, but on the public benefits which, in the overruling providence of God, would flow from it.
a heavy rain—the waters suddenly rose—the warriors foil, into the quicksands, and sinliing deep into them, were drowned or washed into tlie sea. [Van he Vemk.I 2'3. Then were the horse lioofs liroken by the means of t3»e pranclngs—anciently, as in many parts of the East still, horses were not shod. The breaking of the hoofs denotes the hot haste and heavy irregular tramp of the routed loc. 33. curse ye Meroz—A vill.age on the confines of Issacliar and Naphtali, which lay in the course of the fugitives, but the inliabitants declined to aid in their destruction. 34-37. Is a most graphic picture of the treatment of Sisera in the tent of Jael. butter—curdled milk; a favourite beverage in tlio East. 38-30. In these verses a sudden transition is made to the mother of the Canaanite general, and a striking picture is drawn of a mind agitated between hope and fear—impatient of delay, yet anticipating the news of victory, and the rewards of rich booty, the lattice—A lattice window—common to the houses in warm countries for tlie circulation of air. her wise ladies—maids of lionour, to every man a daiiiscl or twf)—Young maidens formed always a valued pariof Oriental conquerors' war-spoils. But Sisera's niotiu r wished other booty for him; namolj', the gold-thrca<led, richly embroidered, and scarlet-coloured cloaks wliich were held in such higli esteem. The ode concludes witij a wish In unison with tlie piousajid, patriotic character of tlie prophetess.
Ver. 1-31. Debokah and Bakak's Sono op ThanksQIVINO. 1. then sang Deborah and Barak on that day —This noble triumphal ode was evidently tlie composition of Deborah herself. 3-3. The meaning is obscurely seen In our version; It has been better rendered thus, " liaise ye Jehovah ; for the free are freed in Israel—the people have willingly offered themselves." [Robinson.] 4, 5. Allusion is here made, In general terms, to God's Interposition on behalf of his people. Seir and the fleld of Edom—Represent the mountain range; and plain extending along the south from the Dead Sea to the Elanltlc Gulf, thon went out—Indicates the storm to have proceeded from the south or south-east. 6-8. The song proceeds In these verses to describe the sad condition of the countrj, the oppression of the people, and the origin of all the national distress In the people's apostasy from God. Idolatry was the cause of foreign invasion, and Internal inability to resist It. 9. Expresses gratitude to the respective leaders of the tribes wlilch participated In tne contest; but, above all, to God, who inspired both the patriotic disposition and the strength, speak—i. e.. Join 11
Gideon Sent tn Deliver Israel. JUDGES VI, VII. Jffe Dentroys BaaTg Altai
Genesis IS.) Tlie flesh seems to have been roasted, which
is done by cutting it into kobab, i.e., into small pieces, fixed on a skewer, and put l)efore the fire. The broth w;j)l for immeiiiate use; the other, brought in a hainl-basket was intended to be a future supply to the traveller. Tl'O miraculous fire that consumed it, and the vanishing of the stranger, not by walking, but as a spirit in the tire,
Ver. 1-6. The Israelites, for their Sins, Oppressed BY MiDlAN. 1. tlie Lord delivered tUein into
tfie Uaiid of Midian—Untauglit by their former experiences, the Israelites again apostatized, ami new sins were followed by fresh judgments. Jlidian had Sustained a severe blow iu the time of Moses (Numbers 31. 1-lS), and the inemoi-y of that disaster, no doubt, inflamed their resentment against the Israelites. They were wandering herdsmen, called "children of the East," from their oeoupying the territory east of the Red Sea, contiguous to Moab ; and the destructive ravages they are describeil as at this time committing iu the land of Israel are similar to those of the Bedouin Arabs, who harass the peaceful cultivators of the soil, and unless composition is made with them, return annually at a certain season, when they carry off tlie grain, seize the cattle and other prop-
filled Gideon with awe. A consciousness of demerit fills the heart of every fallen man at the thought of God, with fear of his wrath; and this feeling was increased, by a belief prevalent in ancient times, that whoever saw an angel ivonld forthwith die. The acceptance of Gidwn's sacrifice betokened the acceptance of his pei-son; but H required an express assurance of the Divine blessing, given in some uultnown manner, to restore I'ls comfort and peace of mind. 24-3:4. it came to pa^ the same night, the Lord said unto l>im— The transaction in which Gideon is here described as engaged was not entered on till the night after the vision. Take tliy father's second bullock—The Midianifes had probably reduced the family herd; or, as Gideon's father was a<ldicted to idolatry, tlie best may have been fattened for the service of Baal; so that the second was the only remaining one
erty, and even life Itself is in jeopardy from the attacks of those prowling marauders. The vast horde of Midian-
Ites that overran Canaan made them the greatest scouriie which had ever afflicted the Israelites, made dens in the mountains and caves—Not, of course, excavating them,
fit for sacrifice to Goil. tlirow down the altar of Raal that thy father hath—Standing upon his ground, though kept lor the common use of tlie townsmen, cut down the grove that is by it—Dedicated to Ashtaroth. 'With the aid of ten confidential servants he demolished the one altar, and raised on the appointed spot the altar of the Lord; but, for fear of opposition, the work had to be done under cover of night. A violent commotion was excited next day, and vengeance vowed against Gideon as the perpetrator. " Jo.ash, his father, quieted the mol) In a manner similar to that of the town-clerk of Ephesns. It was not for them to take the matter Into thoir own hands. The one, however, made an appeal to the magistrate; the other to the idolatrous god himself." [Chalmers.]
for they were there already, but making them fit for habitation.
7-10. A Prophet Rebfkes them, then the Lord sent a prophet iinto the children of Israel—The curse of the national calamity is authoritatively traced to their infidelity as the cause.
ll-l(i. An Angel sends Gideon to Deliver them. there came an angel of the Lord—He appeared in the character and equipments of a traveller (ii. 21), who sat down in the shade to enjoy a little refreshment and repose, and entering into conversation on the engrossing topic of the times, the grievous oppression of the Midian-
ites, began urging Gideon to exert his well-known prowess on behalf of his country. Gideon, in replying, addresses him at first in a style equivalent (in Jlrhrrw) to "sir," but afterwards gives to him the name usually applied to God. an onii—IIelyrew, the oak—as famous in after-times. Ophrah—A city in the tril)e of Manasseh, about sixteen miles north of Jericho, in the district belonging to the family of Abiezer (Joshua 17.2). his son Gideon threshed wheat by the wine-press—This incident tells emphatically the tale of public, distress. The small quantity of grain he was threshing, indicated by his using a flail Instead of the customary treading of cattle—the unusual place—near a wine-press, under a tree, and on the bare ground, not a wooden floor, for t he prevention of noise—all these circumstances reveal the extreme dread in which the people were living. 13. if the Lord be with ns, why then is all this befallen us? —Gideon's language betrays want of reflection, for the very chasti.sements God had brought on his people showed his presence with, and his interest In, them. 14. The Lord looked upon him, and said, Go In this tliy gtrenRtli: have not I sent thee T—The command and the promise made Gideon aware of the real character of his visitor, and yet like Moses, from a sense 'of humility, or a shrinking at the magnitude of the undertaking, he excused himself from entering on the enterprise. And even though assured that, with the Divine aid, he would overcome the Mldlanltes as eiusily as If they were but one man, he still hesitates and wishes to be better assured that the mission was really from God. He reseml)le8 Moses also In the desire for a sign ; and In both mises it was the rarity of revelations in such periods of general corruption that made them so desirous of having the fullest conviction of being addressed by a heavenly mrsnengiT. The request was reasonable, and It wasgra(dously granted.
3^-;?!). The Signs. 33. all the Midianites pitched in Jezreel—The confederated troops of Midian, Amalek, and their neighbours, crossing tlie Jordan to make a fresh inroad on Canaan, and encamped in the plains of Esdraelon (anciently Jezreelt. The southern part of the Ghor lies In a very low level, so that there Is a steep and difficult descent into Canaan by the southern wadys. Keeping this in view, wo .see the reason wliy the Blidlan-
ite army, from the cast of Jordan, entered Canaan by the northern wadys of the Ghor, opposite .Tezreel. 34. the Spirit of tlie Lord came upon Gideon—Called in this sudden emergency Into the public service of his country, he was supernaturally endowed with wisdom and energy commensurate with the magnitude of the danger nm) the dItTiculfies of his position. His war-summons wa.< enthnsiastieally obeyed by all the nelglitiouring tribes. On the eve of a perilous enterprise, he sought to fortify his mind with a fresh assurance of a Divine call to the responsible ofilce. The miracle of the fleece was a very remarkable one—especially, considering the copious dews that fall in his eountiy. The Divine patience and condescension were wonderfully manifested In reversing the form of the minicle. Gideon himself seems to have been conscious ot Incurring the displeasure of God by his hesitancy and doubts; but He bears with the Infirmities of His people.
CHATTER VII.
Ver. 1-,S. GinEON'8 Army. 1. .TembbaJtl—Tills had now become Gideon's honounible snnuime, "the enemy of Bnal." well—rather " spring of Ha rod," i. e.," fear, trembling"— probably the same as the fountain In Jezrool
l7-r!2. Gideon's PRB3KNT Consumed BY Fire. is. tiepart not hence, I pray thee, until 1 bring my prewent —Jlrhrcii), my minchn, or meat offering; and his iilea jirol)-
(1 Samuel 2!>. 1 ). It was situated not far fi'om Gllbr.-i, oa the contlnes of Manasseh, and the name "Hnrod" was bestowed <m It with evident reference to the panic which seized the majority of Gideon's troops. The host of ttie Mldlanltes were on the northern side of the valley, seemingly deeper down In the descent towards the Jordan, near a little eminence, 'i. the Lord said unto Gideon,
ab'iy was to prove, by his visitor's partaking of the entertainment, whether or not he was more than num. 10. Gideon went in, and made ready a kid ; the flesh lie put In a baitkct, and he put the I>i'oth in a pot—(Kee on
1G2
Gideon Encouraged by the Dream. JUDGES VIII. The Ephraimiies Offended, but Pacified.
The people are too many— Although the Israelitish army mustered ouly 32,00(1—or one-sixth of the Mldian-
more terrible than ever by the use of such striking words, broke through the stillness of the midnight air; the sleepers started from their rest; not a blow was dealt by the Israelites ; but the enemy ran tumultuously, uttering the wild, discordant cries peculiar to the Arab race. They fought indiscriminately, not knowing friend from foe; the panic being universal, they soon precipitately fled, directing their flight down to the Jordan, by the foot of the mountains of Ephraim, to places known as the "house of the acacia," and "the meadow of the dance." 33. the men of Israel gatliered tliemselves togetlier These were evidently the parties dismissed, who liaving lingered at a little distance from the scene of contest, now eagerly joined in the pursuit south-westward through the valley. !24:. Gideon sent messengers tlirougliont all Mount Ephraim—The Ephraimites lay on tlie south, and could render seasonable aid. come, take before tliem the vi^aters unto Beth-barah (8ee on c)i. 3. 2S)— these were the northern fords of the Jordan, to the east-north-east of wady Maleh. the men of Epliraim gathered themselves together unto Beth-barnli—
Itish host—the number was too great, for it was the Lord's purpose to teach Israel a memorable lesson of dependenee on Him. 3. Now tlierefore proclaim In the ears of tlie people, saying, Whosoever Is fearful, let him retnm—This proclamation was in terms of an established law (Deuteronomy 20.8). too many—Two reduc-
tions were ordered, the last by the application of a test which was made known to Gideon alone, bring them down to the water—The wandering people in Asia when, on a journey or in liaste, they come to water do not stoop down with deliberation on their knees, but only bend forward as much as is necessary to bring their hand in contact with the stream, and throw it up with rapidity, and at the same time such address that they do not drop a particle. The Israelites, it seems, were acquainted with the practice; and those who adopted it on this occasion were selected as fit for a work that required expedition
the rest were dismissed according to the Divine direction.
7. the Lord said, By the three hundred men that lapped %vill I save you—It is scarcely possible to conceive a severer trial than the command to attack the overwhelming forces of the enemy with such a handful of followers. But Gideon's faith in the Divine assurance of victory was steadfast, and it is for this he is so highly commended (Hebrews 11. 32). 8. the host of Mldian was beneath Itim in the valley—Attention to the relative position of the parties is of the greatest impoi-tance to an understanding of wliat follows.
new conflict ensued, in which two secondary cliifls were seize<l,and slain on the spots where they were respectively taken. The spots were named after these chiefs, Oreb, " the Raven," and Zeeb, " the Wolf"—appropriate designations of Arab leaders.
Ver. 1-9. The Ephraimites Offended, but Pacikiicd
1. the men of Ephraim said. Why liast tliou sei ved us thusi—Where this complaint was made, whether belore or after the crossing of the Jordan, cannot be determined. By the overthrow of the national enemy, the Ephr.ii mites Were benefited as largely as any of the other neighbouring tribes. But, piqued at not having been sharers in the gloi'y of the victory, their leading men could not repress their wounded pride; and the occasion only served to bring out an old and deeply-seated feeling of jealous rivalry that subsisted between the tribes (Isaiah 9. 21). The discontent was groundless, for Gideon acted according to Divine directions—and, besides, as their tribe was conterminous with that of Gideon, they miglit, had they been really fired with the flame of patriotic zeal, have volunteered their services in a movement against tne common enemy. 3, 3. he said. What liave I done now in comparison of you 1—His mild and truly modest answer breathes the spirit of a great as well as good man, who was calm, collected, and self-possessed in the midst of most exciting scenes. It succeeded in throwing oil on the troubled waters (Proverbs 16. 1), and no wonder, for in the height of generous self-denial, it ascribes to his querulous brethren a greater share of merit and glory than belonged to himself (1 Corinthians 13. 4 ; Philemon 2. 3). 4. Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over—Much exhausted, but eager to continue the pursuit till the victory was consummated. 5. he said unto tlie men of Succoth —i. e., a place of tents or booths. The name seems to have been applied to the whole part of the Jordan valley on the west, as well as on the east side of the river, all belonging to the tribe of Gad (cf. Genesis 33. 17; 1 Kings 7. 46; with Josliua 13. 27). Being engaged in the common cause of all Israel, he had a right to exjject support and encouragement from his countrymen everywhere. G. the princes of Succoth said. Are tlie hands of Zebali and Zalinunna now in thine hand—An insolent as well as a liiiK^-.'^erving reply. It was insolent, because it implied a bitter taunt that Gideon was counting with confidence on a victory which they believed he would not gain; and it was time-serving, because living in the near neighbourhood of the Midianite slieicks they dreaded the future vengeance of those roving chiefs. This contumelious manner of acting was heartU'ss and disgraceful in people who were of Israelitish blood. 7. I will tear your Hesh witli the thorns of the wilderness, and with briers—A cruel torture, to which captives were often subjected in ancient times, by having thorns and briers placed on their naked bmlles.and pressed down by sletlges, or heav.y implemenU
9-15. He is Encouraged by the Dkeam and the Interpretation of the Barley Cake. 9. arise, get thee down unto the host . . . but if thou fear to go doi%'n, go thou with Pliurah thy servant—In ancient times it was reckoned no degradation for persons of the highest rank and character to act as spies on an enemy's ciunp; and so Gideon did on this occasion. But the secret errand was directed by God, who intended that he should hear something whicli might animate his own and the valour of his troops. 11. the outside of the armed men that were in the host—"Armed," means embodied under tlie five officers established by the ordinary laws and usages of encampments. The camp seems to have been unprotected by any rampart, since Gideon had no difficulty in reaching and overhearing a conversation that was passing in one of them. 11. The Midianites and the Amalekites lay along in the valley like grasshoppers for multitude; and tlteir camels witltout number—A most grapliic description of an Arab encampment. They lay wrapt in sleep, or resting from their day's plunder, while their innunierable camels were stretched round about them. 13. I dreamed a dream; and, lo, a cake of barley bread tumbled into the host of niidian—This was a characteristic and very expressive dream for an Arab in the circumstances. The rolling down the hill, striking against the tents, and overturning them, natujrally enough connected it in liis mind with the position and meditated attack of the Israeliti.sh leader. The circumstance of the cake, too, was very significant. Barley was usually the food of the poor, and of beasts ; but most probabI.y, from the widespread destruction of the crops by the invaders, multitudes must have been reduced to poor and scanty fare. 15. wlien Gideon heard tlie telling of the dream, and tlie inf eii>retation, he worshipped—The incident originated in the secret overruling providence of God, and C!ideon, from his expression of pious gratitude, regarded it as such. On his mind, as well as that of his followers, it ))roduced the intended ellect—that of imparting new animation and im-
• pnlse to their patriotism.
16-21. His Strataoem aoainst MiniAN. 16. he divided the three hnndred men into three companies— The object of dividing his forces was, that they might seem lo be surrounding the enemy. The pitchers were empt.v to conceal the torches, and made of earthenware, BO as to be easily broken; and the sudden blaze of the hcld-up lights—the loud echo of the trumpets, and tlie abouts of Israel, always K'rrlble (Xumljers 2J. 21), and now
Zebah and Zalmunna Taken. JUDGES IX. Abimelech is made King by the SheckemUea,
of husbandry being dragged over them. 8. lie went to Peimel, and spake to tliem likewise—A neighbouring city, situated also in the territory of Gad, near the Jabbok, and honoured with this name by Jacob (Genesis 32.
lanites being synonymous terms, Genesis 37. 2\ 28) were gorgeously adorned with barbaric pearl and gold, an immense amount of such valuable booty had fallen into the hands of the Israelitish soldiers. The contribution Avas liberally made, and the quantity of gold given to him is estimated at £3113 sterling, ornaments—Crescent-like plates of gold suspended from the necks, or placed on the breasts of the camels, collars—Rather ear-rings, or drops of gold or pearl, pui-ple—a royal colour. Th(3 ancient, as well as modern Arabs, adorned the necks, breasts, and legs, of their riding animals with sumptuous housing. 37. Gideon made an ephod thereof, and put it in his city, Oplirah—That no idolatrous use was in view, nor any divisive course from Shiloh contemplated,
30, 31). 9. lie said, AVlicn I come again I will break down tills tower—Intent on the pursuit, and afraid of losing time, he postponed the merited vengeance till his return. His confident anticipation of a triumphant return evinces the strength of liis faith, and his specific threat was probably provoked by some proud and presumptuous boast, that in their lofty watch-tower the Penuelites would set him at defiance.
10-27. Zebah and Zalmunna Taken. 10. Now Zebali and Zalmnnna were In Karkor—A town on the eastern confines of Gad. The wreck of the Midianite army halted
is manifest from v. 33. Gideon proposed, with the gold he received, to make an ephod for his use only as a civil magistrate or ruler, as David did (1 Chronicles 15. 27), and a magnificent pectoral or breast-plate also. It would seem, from the history, that he was not blamable In making this ephod, &c., as a civil robe or ornament merely, but that It afterward became an object to which religious ideas were attached ; whereby it proved a snare, and consequently an evil, by perversion, to Gideon and his house. [Taylor's Fragment.]
there. 11. Gideon went up by tlie way of tlieni tliat dwell In tents on tlie east—He tracked the fugitives across the mountain-range of Gilead to the north-east of the Jabbok, and there came upon them unexpectedly, while they were resting secure among their own nomadic tribes. Jogbehah is supposed to be Ramoth-gilead ; and, therefore, the Midianites must have found refuge at or near Abela, "Abel-cheramim," the plain of the vineyards. 1^. when Zebah and Zalmnnna fled, he pursued them—A third conflict took place. His arrival at their last quarters, which was by an unwonted path, took the fugitives by surprise, and the conquest was there completed of the Midianite horde. 13. Gideon returned from battle before the sun was up—He seems to have returned by a nearer route to Succoth, for what is rendered in our version "before the sun w.is up,'' means " the heights of Heres, the sun-hills." 14. he described— Wrote the names of the seventy princes or elders. It was from tliem he had received so inliospitable a treatment. 16. he toyk the thorns of the wilderness and briers, and with them he taught the men of Succoth—By refusing his soldiers refreshment, they liad committed a public crime, as well as an act of inhumanity, and were subjected to a horrible punisliment, which the great abundance and remarkable size of tlie thorn bushes, together with the thinness of clothing in the East, has probaiily suggested. 18. then said he unto Zebah and Zalmunna, What manner of men tvere they whom ye slew at Tabor T—This was one of the countless atroci-
28. JIiniAN SmnuED. 38. Thus was Mldian subdued before the children of Israel—This invasion of the Arab hordes into Canaan was as alarming and desolating as the irruption of the Huns Into Europe. It was the severest scourge ever inflicted upon Israel; and both It and the deliverance under Gideon lived for centuries in the minds of the people (Psalm 83. 11).
Ver. 1-6. Abimelech is made King by the ShechemITES. 1. Abimelech tlic son of .Terubbaal went to Shechein—The idolatry which had been stealthily creeping into Israel during the latter years of Gideon was now openly professed; Sheehem was wholly Inhabited by Its adherents ; at least Idolaters had the ascendency. Abimelech, one of Gideon's numerous sons, was connected with that place—was ambitious of sovereign power, and having plied successfully the arts of a demagogue with
liis maternal relatives and friends, he acquired both the Influence and money by which he raised himself to a throne, communed with all the family of the house of his luotlier's father—Here is a striking Instance of the evils of polygamy—one son has connections and Interests totally alien to those of his brothers. 3. whether
ties which the Midianite chiefs had perpetrated during their seven years' lawless occupancy. It is noticed now for the first time, when their fate was about to be determined, each one resembled the children of a king An Orientalism for great beauty, majesty of appearance, uncommon strength, and grandeur of form. 19. they were my brethren, even the sons of my motlier—Tliat
is better for you that all the sons of Jerubbaal, or one should reign over you—A false Insinuation, artfully contrived to stir up Jealousy and alarm. Gld(H)n had rejected, with abhorrence, the proposal to make lilmself or any of his family king, and there Is no evidence that any of his other sons coveted the title. *. the house of Baal-berlth-Either the temple, or the place where this
Is, uterine brothers; but. In all countries where polygamy prevails, "the son of my mother" implies a closeness of relationship and a warmth of aircctlon never awakened by the looser term, "brother." !40. he said unto .Tether his flrst-bom. Up, and slay them—The nearest of kin was the l)loo(l avenger ; but a magistrate might order any one to do the work of the executioner, and the person selected was always of a rank e(iual or proportioned to
Idol was worshipped ; liaiil-berlth, " god of the covenant," by Invocation of whom the league of cities was formed. Alilinelerli hired vain and light persons, which followed hlui— Idle, worth1(>ss vagabonds, the scum of so-
that of the party doomed to sull'er fl Kings 2. SO). Gideon Intended, then, by the order to Jether, to put an honour on his son, by employing him to slay two enemies of his country; and on the youth (h'cllnlng, pcrforiiieil the bloo<ly deed himself. !4'4, 'M. Tlic men of iNraei Hi<ld unto Gideon, Rule thoit over us . . . <»ldeon aiiid iiiito (hem, Tlie I^ord shall rule oi er you—Their unhotuuled admiration and gratltiidt! prompttd Ihcm, In the (enthusiasm of the moment, to raise their deliverer to a throne, and to eslabllsli a royal dynasty In his house. Hut Gideon knew loo well, and revered too i)iously tlu! prli)cli)les of the theocracy to enlcrlaln llu! proposal lor a inoineiit. Personal and family ambition was cheiTfully sacrillced
ciety, who had notiilng to lose, but much to gain from the success of a revolutionary movement. 5. went unto Ophrah, and slew his l)rethren on one stone—This Is
lh(! Ilrsl mention of a barbarous atrocity which has, with
apiialling fr('<]uency, been perpetrated in tho despotic countries of the East—that of some one son of the deceased monarch usurping the throne, and hastening to confirm himself In the possession by the massacre of nil the natural or legitimate competitors. AblineU>oh Blew his brethren (m one Dtonr, either by dashing them frohi one
I'ocic, or sacriricliig them on one stone altar, In revenge
for the deniolltlon of Haal's altar by their fallier. This latter view Is the more probable, from the Sheehemltes
to a sense of duty, and every worldly motive was kept In check by a supremo reganl to the Divine honour. Ho would willingly act as Judge, but tli(> Lord alone was King of Israel, lit, '£7. Gideon siild, 1 would deulre a request of you—This was the (Contribution of an ear-ring
(v. 21) aiding In It. threescore and ten persons—a round number Is used, but It Is evident that two ar(> wanting to coniplclc that aniouut. ail <he men of Shceliem, and
all the house of niillo— i'. c, a mound or rampart, so that the meaning is, all the men li> the house or temple*
[Si ay.], for, Ute auclonl Aruhlanii (Ishniaulltes and Mld104
OaaJ^s Conspiracy. JUDGES X, XI. Israel Opjyreesed by (heir Enemiei.
—He was uncle to Abimelech by the father's side, and consequently brother of Gideon ; yet the former was of the tribe of Issachar, while the latter was of Manasseh. They were, most probably, uterine brothers, dwelt In Shamir in Mount Epltraim—As a central place, he made
namely, the priests of Baal, made Ablmelccli Utng by the plain of the pillar—Rather, by the oak near a raised mound—so that the ceremony of coronation might be conspicuous to a crowd.
7-21. JOTHAM BY A PARABLB REPROACIIETII THEM.
it the seat of government. 3. Jair, a Glleadite—This judge was a different person from the conqueror of that north-eastern territory, and founder of Havoth-jair, or " Jair's villages." (Numbers 32. 41; Deuteronomy 3. If;' Joshua 13. 3; 1 Chronicles 2. 22.) 4. lie had thirty sons that rode on thirty ass colts—This is a characteristic trait of Eastern manners in those early times; and the grant of a village to each of his 30 sons was a striking proof of his extensive possessions. His having thirty sons
7. lie stood o» tlie top ofMoiiut Gei-izlm, and lifted up
Ills voice—The spot he chose was, like the housetops, the public place of Shechem ; and the parable drawn from the rivalry of the various trees was appropriate to the diver-
sified foliage of the valley below. Eastern people are exceedingly fond of parables, and use them for conveying reproofs—which they could not give in any other way. The top of Gerizim is not so high in the rear of tlie town, as it is nearer to the plain. With a little exertion of voice, he could easily have been heard by the people of the city; for the hill so overhangs the valley, that a pei'son from the side or summit wduld have no difficulty in speaking
is no conclusive evidence that he had more than one wife, much less that he had more than one at a time. There are instances, in this country, of men having as many children by two successive wives.
to listeners at the base. Modern history i-ecords a case, in which soldiers on the hill shouted to the people in the
6-9. Israel Oppressed by the Philistines and Ammonites. 6. the cliildren of Israel did evil again in the sight of tlie Lord—This apostasy seems to have exceeded every former one in tlie grossness and universality of the idolatry practised. 7. Philistines and the childi-en of Ammon—The predatory incursions of these two hostile neighbours were made naturally on the parts of the land respectively contiguous to them. But the Ammonites, animated with the spirit of conquest, carried their arms across the Jordan ; so that the central and southern provinces of Canaan were extensively desolated.
city, and endeavoured to instigate them to an insurrec-
tion. There is something about the elastic a tmosphere of an Eastern clime which causes it to transmit sound with wonderful celerity and distinctness. [Hackett.] 13.
-tvliie wlilch clieeretli God and man—Kot certainly in the same manner. God might be said to be " cheered " by
it, when the sacrifices were accepted, as lie is said also to be honoured by oil {v. 9). 21. Jotliam went to B« tr—The modern village El-Bireh, on the ridge which bounds tlie northern prospect of Jerusalem.
10-1."). They Cry to God. 10. Tlie cliildren of Israel cried unto the Lord, We have sinned against thee— The first step of repentance is confession of sin, and the best proof of its sincerity is given by the transgressor, when he mourns not only over the painful consequences which have resulted from his offences to himself, but over the iieinous evil committed against God. 11. the Lord said, Did I not deliver you from the Egj-ptlans—The circumstances recorded in this and the following verses, were not probably made through the high priest, whose' duty it was to interpret the will of God. 12, Maonites —
22-19. Gaal's Conspiracy. ii'Z. when Abimeleeh 3»atl reigned three years—His reign did not, proliably at first, extend beyond Shechem; but by stealthy and progresKlve encroachments he subjected some of the neighbouring towns to his sway. None could "reign" in Israel, except by rebellious usurpation ; and hence the reign of Abimelech is expressed in the original by a word signilyiiig "despotism," not that whicli describes the mild and divinely authorized rule of the judge. 23. then Cod sent an evil spirit between Abimeleeh and the men of Shechem i. e., in the course of providence, jealousy, distrust, secret disatTection and smothered rebellion appeared among his subjects disappointed and disgusted Mith his tyranny; and God permitted those disorders to punish the complicated crimes of the royal fratricide and idolatrous usurper. 26. Gaal came with his brethren, and the men of Shechem put their confidence in him —An insurrection of the original Canaanites, headed by this man, at last broke out in Shechem. 28-45. would to Cod this people were under my hand—He seems to h-ave been a boastful, impudent, and cowardly person, totally unfit to be a le.idor in a revolutionary crisis. The consequence was, that he allowed himself to be drawn into an ambush—was defeated—the city of Shechem destroyed and strewn with salt—and the people took refuge in the stronghold, which was set fire to, and all in it perished.
i. e., Midianites.
16-18. They Repent ; God Pitieth Them. They put away the strange gods . . . and served the Lord; and
li>is soul was grieved for the misery of Israel—On their a'^'indonment of idolatry and return to purity of worship, Gixl graciously abridged the term of national affliction, and restored times of peace. 17, 18. the children ofAmmon were gathered together—From carrying on guerrilla warfare, the Ammonites proceeded to a continued campaign; their settled aim being to wrest the v/hole of the transjordanic territory from its actual occupiers. In this great crisis, a general meeting of the Israelitish tribes was held at Mizpeh. This Mizpeh was in eastern Manasseh. (Joshua 11. 3.)