Chapter XXX (continued, part 2)
the king declining, ou account of the heavy expi'iise to
wJiicli t!ie reception of royalt,y would subject him, Absalom then 'limited the invitation to the king's sons, which Uavid the more readily agreed to, in the hope tliat
it might tend to the promotion of brotherly harmony and union.
2S-:;ii. AmNOX IS St.AIN. ^I^. AJ>salom bad coiuman^led
itis sKrvaiits, saying, WJien Aictnon's lieart is nierry witlt wine . . . kill bim, fear not—On a preconcerted signal from their master, the servants, rusliing upon Amnon, slew him at the table, while the rest of the brotliers, horror-struck, and apprehending a general massacre, tied
in allVighled haste to Jerusalem. !i9. Every man gat
Iiliii iiiioit Ills mnle— This had become the favourite eijuipage of the great. King David himself had a state )nvde (.1 Kings l.:S!). The Syrian mules are, in activity, strrngth, and capabilities, still far superior to ours. 30. tidings eamc to David, saying, Absalom batb slain all
tinking's sons— It was natural that in the consternation and tumult caused by so atrocious a deed, an exaggerated report shou'd reach the court, wliich was plunged into the depths of grief and despair. But the information of Jonadab, who seems to have been privy to the design, and the arrival of tlie other princes, nmde known tlie real extent of the catastrophe.
'M-XK AnsAl.OM Fi.EES TO Talmai. 37. Absalom fled, and went to Talmai—The law as to premeditated murder (Numbers 35. 21) gave him no hope of remaining with impunity in liis own country; the cities of refuge could afford him no sanctuary, and he was compelled to leave the kingdom, taking refuge at the court of Gesliur, with his maternal grandfather, who would, doubtless, approve of his conduct.
22-:«. Joab Brings Absaloji to Jerusai.em. 23. To-day tJ»y servant knowetli tliat I h.ave found grace in tiiy siglit—Joab betrays not a little selfishness amid his professions of joy at this act of grace to Absalom, and
flat lered himself that he now brought both father and son under lasting obligations. In considering this act of David, many extenuating circumstances may be urged in favour of it ; the provocation given to Absalom ; his being now in a country where justice could not overtake him; the risk of his imbibing a love for heathen principles and worship; the safety and interests of the Hebrew kingdom; together with the strong predilection of the Hebrew people for Absalom, as represented by the stratagem of Joab
Ver. 1-21. Joab Instructs a Womanof Tekoaii. 3. Joab sent to Teltoalt, and fetched a wise -jvotnan—The king was stronglj' attached to Absalom ; and having now got over his sorrow for the violent death of Amnon, was desirous of again enjoying the society of his favourite son, who had now been three long years absent. But a dread of public opinion and a regard to the public interests made him hesitate about recalling or pardoning his Ruilty son ; and Joab, whose discerning mind perceived this struggle between parental affection and royal duty, devised a plan for relieving the .scruples, and, at the same time, gratifying the wishes, of his master. Having procured a count rywom.ln of superior intelligence and address, he directed her to seek an audience of the king, fftid by soliciting his royal interposition in the s-ettlenient of a domestic grievance, convinced him that the life of a murderer might in some cases be saved. Tekoah was about twelve miles south of .Jerusalem, and six south of Bethlehem; and the design of bringing a woman from such a distance was to prevent either the petitioner being known, or the truth of her story easily investigated. Her Bpeech was In the form of a parable—the circumstances the language—the mannerwell suited to the occasion, represented a case as like David's as It was policy to make
these considerations form a plausible apolog.y for David's grant of pardon to his bloodstained son. But, in granting this pardon, he was acting in the character of an Oriental despot rather than a constitutional king of Israel. The feelings of the father triumphed over the duty of the king, who, as the supreme magistrate, was bound to execute impartial justice on every murderer, by the express law of God (Genesis 9. 6; Numbers 35.30, 31), which he had no power to dispense with (Deuteronomy IS. IS; Joshua
].S; 1 Samuel 10.25). 35. Bnt in all Israel tl>ere was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his Iteatity —This extraordinary popularity arose not only from his high spirit and courtly manners, hut from his uncommonly handsome appearance—one distinguished feature of which, seemingly an object of great ailmiration, was a profusion of beautiful hair. Its extraordinary luxuriance compelled him to out It "at every year's end;" lit., "at times," "from time to time," when It was found to weigh
200 shekels—equal to 112 oz. troy; but as " the weight waa 203
Absalom Sleds the ITearis of Israel. 2 SAMUEL XV, XVI. David Flees from Jerusalem.
after the king's shekel," which was less than the common shekel, Uie rate lias lieen reduced as low as 8 II is. 2 oz.
piety, and desired to see religious engagements punctuiilly performed, gave his consent an<l his blessing.
[ISOCIIAKT], and even less by others. So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jeiusaltni, nnrt saw not tllc Uins's face—Wliatever error David committed in autliorizing tlie recall of Absalom, he displa.ved great prudence and command oveihis feelings afterwards—for his son was not admitted into liis father's jiresence, hut was eonlined to his own house, and the society of liis own famil.y. This slifilit severity was designed to bring liim to sincere repentance, on perceiving that his father had not fully pardoned him, as well as to convince the people of David's abhorrence of his crime. Not Ifeing allowed to appear at court, or to adopt any state, the courtiers kept aloof; even his cousin did not deem it prudent to go into his .societ.v. For two full years his liberty was more restricted, and his
|i)-I2. liE Points A CONSPIKACY. 10. Absalom Sent spies tbrouglkont all the tribes of Israel—These emissaries were to sound the inclination of the people, to further
t he interests of Absalom, and exhort all the adherents of his part.v to be in readiness to join his standard as soon as they should hear that he had been proclaimed king. As the summons was to be made by the sound of trunipets,
it is probable that care had been taken to have trumpeters stationed on the heights, and at convenient stations—
mode of announcement that would soon spread the news over all the country of his inauguration to the throne. 11. witik Absalom went two Unndred men that were called—From their quality, reputation, ami high standing, such as would create the impression that the king patronized the movement, and, being aged and infirm, was willing to adopt his eldest and noblest son to divide
life moi'e apart from his countrymen wliile living in .lerusalein, than in Geshur; and he might have continued in this disgrace longer, had he not, by a violent expedient, determined (v. 30) to force his case on the attention of Joab, through whose kind and powerful influ<'nce a full reconciliation was etTected between him and his father.
^^•ith him tlie cares and honours of government. 12. Absalom sent for Aliithoiiliel—who he knew was ready to join the revolt, through disgust and revenge, as Jewish writers assert, at David's conduct towards Bath-sheba, who was his grand-daughter. Glloli—Near Hebron, the conspiracy was strong—The rapid accession of one place after another in all pai'ts of the kingdom to the party of the insurgents, shows that deep and general dissatisfaction existed at this time against the person and government of David. The remnant of Saul's partisans—the unhappy attair of Bath-sheba — the overbearing insolence and crimes of Joab—negligence and obstruction in the administration of justice, wore some of the principal causes that contributed to the success of this widespread insurrection.
Ver. 1-9. An.sALOM Steals the Hearts of Iskael. 1. Absalom prepared liiin cliariots and liorses, and fifty men to r\m before Itim—This wasassuming thostateand equipage of a prince. The royal guards, called runners, avant-couriers, amounted to fifty (1 Kings 1. 5). The char-
iot, as the Hebrew indicates, was of a magnificent style; and the horses, a novelty among the Hebrew people^ only introduced in that age as an appendage of royalty (Psalm
13-87. David Flees KKOM Jerusalem. 14. David said. Arise, and let ns flee—David, anxious for the preservation of the cit.y which he had beautified, and confidingin a greater support throughout the country, wisely resolved on leaving Jerusalem. IH. all the Gittites, si.x hundred men—These were a bod.y of foreign guards, natives of Gath, whom David, when in the country of the Philistines, had enlisted in his service, and kept around his person. Addressing their commander, Itlai, he made a searching
32. 9; (id. 12), formed a splendid retinue, which would make him"t'ne o))servod of all observers." 2. Absalom rose up early, and stood before the way of tbe S"**"—Public business in the Kast is alwaj's transacted early in the morning—tlie kings sitting an hour or more to hear causes or receive petitions, in a court held anciently, and in man.y places still, in the open air at thecity gatewa.y; so that, as those whose circumstances led them to wait on King David required to be in attendance on his morning leve(>s, Absalom had to rise up early and stand beside thp way of the gate. Through the growing infirmities of age, or the occupation of his government with foreign wars, many private causes had long lain undecided, and a deep feeling of discontent prevailed amongst the people. This dissatisfaction was artfull.y fomented by Absalom, who addressed himsfdf to the various suitors, and after briefly hearing their tale, gratified every one with a favourable opinion of liis case. Studiously concealing his ambitious designs, he expressed a wish to be invested with ofiicial power, only that he might accelerate the course of justice and advance the public interests. His professions had an air of extraordinary generosity and disinterestedness; and, togetlier with his fawning arts in lavishing civilities on all, made him a popular favourite. Thus, b.y forcing a contrast between hi.s own display of public spirit and the dilatory proceedings of the court, he created a growing disgust with his father's government, as weak, careless, or corrupt, and seduced the alfeclions of the multitude, who neither penetrated tlie motive nor foresaw the tendency of his conduct. 7. after forty years— J I is gene-
trial of their fidelity in bidding them (v. 19) abide with the new king. 33. the brook KIdron—A winter torrent that flows through the valle.v between the city and the eastern side of the Mount of Olives. 24. Zadok and all the Levites bearing the ark—Knowing the strong religious feelings of the aged king, they brought it to accompany him in his distress. But as he could not doubt that both the ark and their sacred office would exempt them from the attacks of the rebels, he sent them back with it—not only tliat tlie.v might not be exposed to the perils of uncertain wandering—for he seems to place more confldei ce in the symbol of the Divine presence than in God Himself—but that, by remaining in Jerusalem, they might render him greater service by watching the enem.v's movements. 30. David went up by the ascent of flloiint Olivet—The same pathwa.y over that mount has been followed ever since that memorable day. had his head covered—with a mourning wrapper. The humility and resignat ion of David marked strongl.v his sanctified spi -it, induced by contrition for his transgressions. He I ad fallen, liut it was the fall of the upright; and he rise again, submitting himself meekly in the mean time to '.he
will of God. [(JJIALMIOUS.] 31. David snid. Turn, O T^o rd, the counsel of AliltlioplicI—This senator bei ng the niaUislay of the conspinicy. '•t:i, wlieii David was come to
rall.v admitted that an error has here cri>pt into the te.xl, and that instead of forty, we should read with the S.yriac and Arabic versions, and Josephus, "four years"—i.e., after Absalom's return to Jerusalem, and his beginning to practice tlie base arts of gaining iiopiilarity. my vow wliicit I Slave vowed nnto tbe T<ord— During his exile In Geshur; and the purjiort of it was, that wlu'iiever God's providence should pave the way for his rc-estalilishment In Jerusalem, he would oiler a sacrifice of thanksgiving. Hebron was the spot selected for the performaiu^e of this vow, ostensibly as ludng his native place (cli. :i. ;!), and a famous high place, where sacrifices were frequently oU'ered before the temple was built; but really as being In many respects the most suitable for the commencement of his rebellious (^nterii'-isc. David, who always encouraged 204
f He (op r»f Hie mount, wlK're lie worshipped— Looking towar<lK .lerusalcm, where wen; tlu' ark and tabernacle. Huslial tlie Arelilte—A native of Archi, on the frontiers of Benjamin and lOphraini (Joshua 2). (loniparing the pra.ver against Ahitliopliel with the counsel to Hushni, we see how strongly a spirit of fervent piety was combined In his character with the devices of an activvand far-seeing policy.
CIIAPTEIl XVI.
Ver. 1-1. ZnsA, hy Fal.sk Suooestions, Claim.* Ili.'j Mastek's Jniieuitance. 1. Zlba the servant of ftk'DUl*
Shlvici Curses David. 2 SAMUEL XVII. AhithopJieFs Counsel Oierthrown,
CHAPTEE XVII.
boslteth met lilm—Tliis crafty man, anticipating the certain failure of Absalom's conspiracy, took steps to prepare for liis future advancement on the restoration of tlie king, a bottle of wine—A large goat-skin vessel. Its size made tiie supply of wine proportioned to the rest of his present. 3. Tlie asses be for tlie king's Iioiiseliold to rlile oil—The royal fugitives were moving on foot, not from inability to procure conveyances, but as being suitable to their present state of humiliation and penitence.
Ver. Ahithophel's Counsel Overthkown bt HUSHAI. 1. Moreover Alxithophel said ui>to Absalon( —The recommendation to take prompt and decisive measures before the royalist forces could be collected and arranged, evinced the deep political sagacity of this coun-
cillor. The adoption of his advice would have extinguished the cause of David ; and it alTords a dreadful proof of the extremities to which the heartless prince was, to secure his ambitious objects, prepared to go, that the parricidal counsel "pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel." It was happily overruled, however, by the address of Hushai, who saw the imminent danger to which it would expose the king and the roj'al cause. He dwelt upon the warlike character and military experience
3. To-tlaj' sUall tlie Iionsc of Israel I'estore the kingdom of my fatlier—Such a hope might not unnaturally arise at this period of civil distraction, that the family of David would destroy themselves by their mutual broils, and the people reinstate the old dynasty. There was an air of plausil)ility in Ziba's story. Many, on whom the king had conferre<l favours, were now deserting him; no wonder, therefore, that in tlie excitement of momentary feeling, believing, on the report of a slanderer, Mephibo-
of the old king—represented him and his adherents as mighty men, who would fight with desperation; and who, most probably, secured in some stronghold, would be beyond reach, while the smallest loss of Absalom's men at the outset might lie fatal to the success of the conspiracy. But his dexterity was chiefly displayed in that part of his counsel which recommended a general levy throughout thecountrj'; and that Absalom should take command of it in person—thereby flattering at once the pride and ambition of the usurper. The bait was caught by the vainglorious and wicked prince. 13. we will light upon him ns the dew falleth upon tlie ground No image could have symbolized the sudden onset of an enemy so graphically to an Oriental mind as the silent,
6het!i to be among the number, he pronounced a rash and unrighteous judgment by which a great injury was inflicted on the character and interests of a devoted friend.
0-19. Shimei Curses David. 5. Wlien King David came to Ealmrim—A city of Benjamin (ch. 3. 16; 19. 10). It is, however, only the confines of the district that are here meant. Sltimei, a man of tlie family of Saul—The misfortune of his family, and the occupation by David of what they considered their rightful possessions, afforded a natural, if not a justifiable cause for this ebullition of rude insults and violence. He upbraided David as an ambitious usurper, and charged him, as one whose misdeeds had recoiled upon his own head, to surrender a throne to which he was not entitled. His language was that of a man incensed by the wrongs that he conceived had been done to liis house. David was guiltless of the crime of whicli Shimei accused him ; but his conscience reminded him of other flagrant iniquities, and he, there-
irresistible, and rapid descent of this natural moisture on
, every field and blade of grass. 13. all Israel shall bring ropes to that city—In besieging a town, hooks or cranes were often thrown upon the walls or turrets, by which, with ropes attached to them, the besiegers, uniting all their force, pulled down the fortifications in a mass of ruins. 14. Tlie counsel of Hushai is better than the counsel of Aliithophel—The reasons specified being extremely plausible, and expressed in the strong hyperbol-
fore, regarded the cursing of this man as a chastisement from heaven. His answ'er to Aljisliai's proposal evinced the spirit of deejj and humble resignation—the spirit of a mail who watched the course of Providence, and acknowledged Shimei as the instrument of God's chastening hand. One tiling is reraarkaMe, that he acted more independently of the sons of Zeruiah in this season of great distress than he could often muster courage to do in the days of his prosperity and power. 13. threw stones at liim—As a mark of contempt and insult, cast tliist—As
ical language suited to dazzle an Oriental imagination, the council declared in favour of ITushai's advice; and their resolution was the immediate cause of the discom-
fiture of the rebellion, although the council itself was only a link in the chain of causation held by the controlling hand of the Lord.
15-22. Secret Intelligence Sent TO Davit). 16. send quickly, and tell David—Apparentl}' douljling that his advice vrould be followed, Husliai ordered secret intelligence to be conveyed to David of all that transpired, with an urgent recommendation to cross the Jordan without a moment's delay, lest Ahithophel's address and influence might produce a change on the prince's mind, and an immediate pursuit be determined on. 17. by En-rogel The fuller's well in the neighbourhood of Jerusalem, below the junction of the valley of Hinnom with that of Jehosliaphat. 18. and came to a man's house In Bahurim, wliich had a well in his court—The court was that of the house, and the well an empty cistern. All the houses of the better class are furnished with such reservoirs. Nothing could more easily happen ihan that one of these wells, in consequence of a defioieiicy of water, should become dry ; and it would then answer as a place of retreat, such as David's frii-nds fiHUul in the man's house at Bahurim. The spreading of a covering over the well's mouth for the drying of corn is a common practice.
if to add insult to injury, clouds of dust were thrown by this disloyal subject in the path of his unfortunate sovereign, went along the hill's side over against Iiim—As he descended the rough road on the eastern side of the Mount of Olives, "went along the side"—lit., the rib of the hill. 14. refreshed themselves there— i. e., in the city of Bahurim. 15-19. Hushal said unto Absalom, God save the king—Husliai's devotion to David was so well known, that his presence in the camp of the conspirators excited great surprise. Professing, however, with great address, to consider it his duty to support the cause wlilch the course of Providence and the national will ha<I seemingly decreed should triumph, and urging his friendship for the father as a ground of confidence in his fidelity to the son, he persuaded Absalom of his sincerity, and was admitted amongst the councillors of the new king.
'20-2.S. AniTnoPHEL'S C'OUJfSEI,. 20. Give counsel among you what we shall do—Tliis Is the first cabinet council on record, although the deference paid to Aliithophel gave him the entire direction of the proceedings.
23-29. AiIiTHOPHEL Hangs Himself. 33. when Ahithophel saw tliat his counsel was not followed—His vanity was wounded, his pride mortified on finding that his ascendency was gone; but that chagrin was aggravated by other feelings—a painful conviction that through the delay which had been resolved on, the cause of Absalom was lost. Hastening home, therefore, lie arranged his private affairs, and knowing that the storm of retributive vengeance would fall chieflj' upon him as the Instigator and prop of th(! rebellion, he hanged himself. It may be remarked that the Israelitesdld not, at that timek
!41. Ahlthophel said unto Absalom—This councillor saw that now the die wiis cast; half measures would be Inexpedient; and to cut ofl" all possibility of reconciliation between the king and his rebellious son, gave this atrocious advice regarding the treatment of the royal'women who had been left In charge of the palace. Women being held sacred, arc generally left inviolate in the casualties of war. The history of the East un"ords only one parallel lo tliis lufamous outrage of Absalom.
David's Charijc Respecting Absalom, 2 SAMUEL XVIII. but who IS Slain by Juab.
refuse the rites of sepulture even to those who died by their own hands. He liad an imitator in Judas, wlio resembled hi;n in his treason, as well as in his infamous «nd. m. Tlien David fame to Maliaiialm—In the high
easily dislodge a rider from his seat, and catch hold of his flowing hair." [Hartley.] Some, however, think that the saci-ed historian points not .so much to the hair, as to the /lead of Absalom, which, being caught while running between two branches, was enclosed so firmly that he could not disengage himself from the hold, nor make use of his hands. tUe mule tUat was under Iiim «ent away—The Orientals not having saddles like us, do not sit so firmly on the beasts they ride. Ab.salom quitting his hold of the bridle, apparently to release himself when caught in the oak, the mule escaped. 11. Joab said tuito tUe man tliat told Iiim, I would have given tliee ten shekels of silver and a girdle—^i. e., would have raised him from the ranks to the status of a commissioned ofiicer. Besides a sum of money, a girdle, curiously and richly wrought, was among the ancient Hebrews a mark of honour, and sometimes bestowed as a reward of military merit. This soldier, however, who may be taken as a fair sample of David's faithful subjects, had so gn at a respect for the king's will, that no prospect of reward would have tempted him to lay violent hands on Absalom. But Joab's stern sense of public duty, which satisfied him that there could be neither safety to the king, nor peace to the kingdom, nor security to him and other loyal subjects, so long as that turbulent prince lived, overcame his sensibilities, and looking upon the charge given to the generals as more befitting a parent than a prince, he ventured to disobey it.
eastern country of Gilead, the seat of Ish-bosheth's government. Absalom passed over Jordan—It is not said how long an interval elapsed, but there must have been sufficient time to make the intended levy throutihout the kingdom. 35. Amasa—By the genealogy it appears that this captain stood in the same relation to David as Joab, both being his nephews. Of course, Amasa was Absalom's cousin, and though himself an Israelite, his father was an Ishmaelite (1 Chronicles 2. 17). Nahasli is thought by some to be another name of Jesse, or according to others, the name of Jesse's wife. 37. wSien David was come to Maiiaiiaim—The necessities of the king and his followers wore hospitably ministered to by three chiefs, whose generous loyalty is recorded with honour in the sacred narrative. Sliobl—Must have been brother of Hanun. Disapproving, probably, of that young king's outrage upon the Israelite ambassadors, he had been made governor of Ammon by David on the conquest of that country. MacUir—(See ch. 9. 4.) Sujjposed by some
to have been brother of Bath-sheba, and liarzillai, a wealthy old grandee, whos^ great age and infirmities made In's loyal devotion to the distressed monarch peculiarly atfecting. The supplies they brought—Miiicli, besides beds for the weary consisted of the staple iiroduce of their rich lands and pastures, may be classified as follows : eatables—wheat, barley, flour, beans, lentiles, sheep, and cheese; drinkables—"honey and butter" or cream, which, being mixed together, form a thin diluted bi v-« erage, light, cool, and refreshing. Being considered a luxurious refreshment (Song 4. H), the supply of it shows the liigh respect that was paid to David by his loyal and faithful subjects at Mahanaim. 29. lii tUe wilderness Spread out beyond the cultivated table-lands into the Bteppes of Hauran.
14-32. He is Slain by Joab. 1*. he took three darts
. . . and thmst them through the heart of AI>saIom The deed, partially done by Joab, was completed by his body-guard. Being a violation of the expressed wish, as well as of all the fond paternal feelings of David, it must have been deeply ofl^ensive to the king, nor was it ever forgotten (1 Kings 2.5); and yet there is the strongest reason for believing that Joab, in doing it, was actuateil by a sincere regard to the interests of David, both as a man and a monarch. 10. Joab blew the trumpet . , . and held back the people—Knowing that by the de.ath of the usurper there was no occasion for further bloodshed, he put an end to the pursuit, and thereby evinced the temperate policy of his conduct. However harsh and unfeeling to the king Joab may appear, there can be no doubt that he acted the part of a wise statesman in regarding the peace and welfare of the kingdom more than his master's private inclinations ; which were opposed to strict justice as well as his own interests. Absalom deserved to die by the Divine law (Deuteronomj21. IS, 21), as well as being an enemy to his king and country, and no time was more fitting than when he met that death in open battle. 17. tliey took Absalom, and east liini into a great i>lt, and laid a very great heap of stones upon Iiim—The peopleof the East Indicate theii detestation of the memory of an Infamous per.son by tlirowing stones at the place where ho is burled. Tlie heap is Increased by the gradual accumulation of stones which passers-by add to it. IS. Absalom in his lifetime had
CHAPTEK XVIII.
Ver. 1-4. David Reviewing the Armies. 1. David nunibered tSie people tliat M'ere witli Isi>u—The liardy mountaineers of Gilead came in great numbers at tlie
call of their chieftains, so that, although without money to pay any troops, David soon found himself at the liead of a considerable armj-. A pitched battle was now inevital)le. But so mnch depending on the life of the king, he was not allowed to take the field in person; and therefore divided his forces into three detachinents under Joab, Abishai, and Ittai, the commander of the foreign guards.
5-1:!. Gives Them Charge of Absalom, o. wood of Epliraim—This wood, of course, was on the east of Jordan. Its name was derived, according to some, lYom the slaughter f)f the liphraimites by Jeplil hah—according to others, from the connection of blood with the trans-
Jordanic Manasseh. 5. Deal gently for my sake witit tl>c young man, even wlfli Alisalom—This aflecting charge, which the king gave to his generals, proceeded not only from his overwhelming affection for his chil- <lren, l)ut from his consciousness that this rebellion was the chastisement of his own crimes, Absalom being merely an instrument In the hand of retril)utive I'roviclence;—and also from his piety, lest the unhappy prince should die with his sins unrepented of. 7. tlie people of Israel were sliiln — This designath)n, tog<'tlicr with the immense slaughter after mentioned, shows tTic large extent to which the people were enlisted in this uiihaiip.v civil contest. S. the wood devoured more people tliau the Bword—Tlie tliick forest of oaks and terebinths, by obstructing the 11 Iglit, greatly aided the victors in the pursuit. 0. Absalom met the gcr-»'nnfs of l)avi«l—Or was overtaken. "It Is necessary to be continually on one's guard against the branches of trees; and when the hair is worn in large locks floating down the back.ns was the case with a young man of the party to which I belonged, any thick boughs interposing in the path might
. . . reared for liiniself n pillar lit., hund. In the valley of Jehoshaphat, on the east of Jerusalem, Is a tomb or ci'notaph, said to be this "pillar" or monument: it Is twenty-four f(M't. square, dome-topped, and reaches forty
feet In height. This may occupy the spot, but cannot Itself be the work of Absalom, as it evld(!ntly bears the style of a later architecture. 19. Tlien said Aiilmaaz
, . . Let me . . . run and bear tlie king tldiitg:i—The reasons of .Toah's declining to accept Ahiiuaai'.'s olVer to bi^ar intelligence of the victory to David, and afterwards letting him go along with another, are variously stated by commentators—but they are of no Importance, and yet the alacrity of the messengers, as well as the eager excitement of the expectants, is graphically described.
by,tlie way of tl»e plain—Or " ciccar," circle. This word Is only use<i elsewliere in connection with the valley of the Jordan. It Is possible that there may have been a place^or region so called on the tabl(>-lands of Gilead, as the Septiiagint seems to indicate. Or Mahanaim may liave been so situated, with regard to the battle-field, as to be more easily accessible by a descent to the plain of
20t!
Joah Cd'ists the King 2 SAMUEL XIX. t.o Ceust Mijurninr/s
Ac.—This also was a dextrnus strn!;i' of policy. David was fully alive to the in.porlanrt', iWi extinguishing the rebellion, of withdrawing Ironi liial •.mse tlie only leader who could kt'cp it alive; and he, tlicr. tore, secretly intimated ills iiilemion to raise Aiiiasa t>i I lie command of the army in room of Joab, whose overbearing hauglitiness had become intolerable. The king justly reckoned, that from natural temper as well as gratitude for the royal pardon; lie would prove a more traclatjle servant; and David, doubtless, intended in all siiieerity to fulfil this promise. But Joab managed to retain his high position
the Jordan, .'»an over tlip hills themselves. Or the word may siijiiily O'.s Kwalu explaiusj :i iiumiier ol'ciuiel: luu-
nilig, [fSTANJ.tY. ] 'ii. David sat bttiveeii t!ie two gates —i. e., in !hc lowor-liviisi,' on tlie wall that overhung l.lie gate of .VlaiKinaitn ; near it was a watch-tower, on wliicli a sentin< l was posted, as in times of war, to notify every
occuri'ence. The delicacy of Aliiniaaz's communication was made up Ijj' the unnii.stakalile plainness of Cushi's. The dealii of Alisaioni was a heavy trial, and it is impos-
sible not to ( ynipathize witli the outburst of feeling by Which David diowed that all thouglUs of the victory he had won a«. j. king were comiJletely sunk In the painful
(see on ch. 20). 14. he bowed the heart of all the men of Jiidali i. e., Amasa, who had Ijeen won over, used his great influence in re-attaching the whole tribe of .ludah to the interest of David. 15. Jiulali came to Gilgal—As the most convenient place where preparations could be made for bringing the king and court over the Jordan. 16. Shlmel . . . and a ^thousand men of Benjamin with him—This display of his followers was to show what force he could raise again.st or in support of the king. Expressing the deepest regret for his former outrageous conduct, he was pardoned on tlie spot; and altliough the son of Zeruiah urged the expediency of making this chief a public example, his ofTicionsness was repulsed by David with magnanimity, and with the greater confidence that he felt himself now re-established
loss he h:<,'. jiustained as a father. The extraordinary ardour an jtreiiglh of his affection for this worthless son break" >ut in the redundancy and vehemence of his mournfu) aculations.
Ver. 1- 'J. JoAB Causes the King to Cease Mourning.
8. the people gat tUem by stcaltli to tlie city—The rumour of tiie king s disconsolate condition spread a universal and unseasonable gloom. His troops, instead of being welcomed back, as a victorious army always was, with music and other demonsti'ations of public joy, slunk secretly and silently into the city, as if ashamed after the commission of some crime. 4. tUc king covered his face—One of the usual signs of mourning (see on ch. 15. 30). 7. Tlioa hast shamed the faces of all thjservants—By withdrawing thyself to Indulge in grief, as if their services were disagreeable and their devotion irksome to thee. Instead of hailing their return with joj' and gratitude, thou hast refused them the small gratification of seeing thee. Joab'.s remonstrance was right and necessary, but it was made with harshness. He was one of those persons who spoil their important services by the Insolence of their manners; and who always awaken a feeling of obligation in those to whom they render any services. He spoke to David in a tone of hauteur that ill became a suliject to show towards his king. 7. Kow arise, go forth, and speak comfortably unto thy servants—The king felt the truth of Joab's reprimand; ljut the threat by which it was enforced, grounded as it was on the general's unbounded popularity with the army, showed him to be a dangerous person ; and that circumstance, together with the violation of an express oi'der to deal gently for his sake with Absalom, produced in David's mind a settled hatred, which was strongly manifested in his last directions to Solomon. 8. the king arose, and sat In the gate—Appeared daily in the usual place for the hearing of causes, all the people came before the king—i. e., the loyal natives who had been faith-
ill the kingdom (see on 1 Kings 2. 8, 9). IV. Ziba, the servant of the house of Saiil—He had deceived his master; and when ordered to make ready the ass for the lame prince to go and meet the king, slipped away by himself
to pay court first; so that Mephibosheth, being lame, had to remain in Jerusalem till the king's arrival. 18. ferry boat—probably rafts, wliich are still used on that part of the river. 20. lam come the first of all the house of Joseph— t. e., before all the rest of larai-t (Psalm 77. 15; 80,
1; SI. 5; Zechariah 10. 6). 34-30. Mfphlbosheth came down to meet the king. The reception given to Mephibosheth was less creditable to David. The sincerity of
tiiat prince's grief for the misfortunes of the king cannot be douljted. "He had neither dressed his feet"— not taken the bath, " nor trimmed his beard." The Hebrews cut ofT the hair on the upper lip (see on Leviticus 13. 45), and cheeks, but carefully cherished it on the chin from ear to ear. Besides dyeing It black or red colours, which, however, is the exception, and not tlie rule in the East,
tliere are variousmodes of trimming it: they train it into a massy, bushy form, swelling and round ; or they terminate it like a p.yramid, in a sharp point. Wl'.atevcr the mode, it is always trimmed with the greatest care; and tliey usually carry a small comb for the purpose. The neglect of this attention to his beard was an undoubted proof of tlie depth of Mephiboshetli's grief. The king seems to have received him upbraidingly, and not to have been altogether sure either of his guilt or innocence.
ful to Ills government, and fought in his cause. Israel had fle<l— I. e., the adherents of Absalom, who, on his de-
It is impossible to commend the cavalier treatment, any more than to approve the partial award, of David in this case. If he were too hurried and distracted liy the pressure of circumstances to inquire fully into the matter, he should have postponed his decision ; for if by "dividing the land "(t). 29) he meant that the former arrangement should be continued by which Mephilioshetli was acknowledged the proprietor, and Zilia the fanner, it was a hardship Inflicted on the owner to fix him with a tenant who had so grossly slandered him. But if b.y " dividing the land," they were now to share alike, the injustice of the decision was greatly increased. In any view, the generous, disinterested spirit displayed by Jlephiboshelli waa wortliy a son of tlie noble-hearted Jonathan. .'JI-40. Barzlllal tlie Glleadlte—The rank, great age, and cliivalrous devotion of this Glleadlte chief wins onr respc^ct. His declining logo to court—his recoiiiineiidation rif his son-his convoy across the Jordan, and his parting scene with tlie king, are Interesting Incidents. What mark of royal favour was bestowed on Chiinhatn has not been ro oorded ; but it is probable that David gave a great part ol his personal patrlmon,v In Bethlehem to Cliimham and his heirs In perpetuity (Jeremiah 41. 17). 35. the voica of singing men and singing women—Bands of profes-
feat, had dispersed and saved themselves by flight.
TiiK IsuAKMTEs Bring the King Back, &e. 9. all the iH'opIe were at strife throughout the tribes of I«rael—The kingdom was completely disorganized. Tlie Bentiiiients of three dilTerent parties are represented in verses 9 and 10;—the royalists—the adherents of Absalom, who had been very numerous, and those who were indifferent to the Davidic dynasty. In these circumstances the king was right in not hastening back, as a conqueror, to reaseend his throne. A re-election was, in some measure, necessary. He remained for some time on the other side of .Jordan, in expectation of being invited back. That invitation was given, without, however, the concurrence of Judab ; and David, disappointed and vexed by his own tribe's apparent lukewarmness, despatched the two high priests to rouse the Judahites to take a prominent Interest In his cause. It was the act of a skilful politician; as, Hebron having been the seat of the rebellion,
it was graceful on his part to encourage their return to allegiance ami duty ; It was an appeal to their honour not to be the last of the tribes. But this separate message, and the preference given to them, occasioned an outliurst of Jealousy among the other tribes that was nearly followed by fatal consequetices. 13. And say ye to Amasa,
SJieba Muhes a Party in Israel. 2 SAMUEL XX, XXI. Amasa is Slain.
he went forth, it fell oiit—£. e., cut of the scabbard. According to Josephus, he let it drop on purpose as he was accosting Amasa, that stooping, as it were accidentally, to pick it up, he might salute tlie new general with the naked sword in his hand, witliout exciting any suspicion of his design. "He went forth" in a ceremonious manner to meet Amasa, now commander-in-chief, in order to seem to render to that officer, whom he considered as usurping his post, a conspicuous honour and homage. 9. took him by the beard vvitli the right hand to kiss him—This act, common with two friends on meeting, when one of them was come from a journey, indicates respect as well as kindliness, and the performance of it evinced the deep hypocrisy of Joab, wlio thereby put Amasa off his guard. No wonder, then, that wliile this act of friendly gratulation after long absence, occupied Amasa's attention, he did not perceive the sword tlia* was in Joab's left hand. The action of Joab was indeed c. high compliment, but neither suspicious nor unusual and to this compliment, Amasa paying attention, and no doubt returning it with suitable politeness, he could little expect the fatal event that Joab's perfidy produced.
slonal musicians form a prominent appendage to tlie courts of Oriental princes. 37. buHert by tlie grave of my fatlier and my motlier—Tills is an instance of the strong affection of people in the East towards tlie places of sepulture appropriated to their families. 40-4:3. tUe king went on to Gilgal, and all tJie people of JudaU conducted tlie king, and lialf tSie peoisle of Israel Whether from impatiei^ce to move on, or from some other cause, David did not wait till all the tribes had arrived to conduct him on his I'eturn to tlie capital. Tlie procession began as soon as Amasa, had brought the Judahite escort, and the preference given to this tribe produced a bitter jealousy, wliicli was nearly kindling a civil war fiercer than that which had just ended. A war of words ensued between the tribes—Israel resting their argument on their superior numbers; "they had ten parts in the king;" whereas, Judah had no more than one. . Judah grounded their right to take the lead, on the ground of their nearer relationship to the king. TliiS was a claim dangerous to the house of David ; and it shows the seeds were already sown of that tribal dissension which, ere long, led to the disinemberment of the kingdom.
10-13. Amasa is Slain. 10. smote him in the attix rib—The seat of the liver and bowels, where wounds are mortal, struck him not again i. e., despatched him at the first blow. 11. He that favowreth Joab, ajid he that is for David, let him go after Joab—It is a striking proof of Joab's unrivalled influence over the army, that with this villainous murder perpetrated before their eyes they unanimouslj' followed him as their leader in pursuit of Sheba. A soldier conjoined his name with David's, and such a magic spell was in the word "Joab," that all the people " went on"—Amasa's men as well as the rest. The conjunction of these two names is very signiiicanr.
CHAPTEE XX.
Yer. 1-9. Sheba Makes a Party in Israel. 1. Slieba
. . . a Benjamite—Though nothing is known of this man, he must have been a person of considerable power and influence, ere he could have raised so sudden and extensive a sedition. He belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, where the adherents of Saul's dynasty were still numerous, and perceiving the strong disgust of the other tribes with the part assumed by Judah in the restoration, his ill-designing heart resolved to turn it to the overthrow of David's autliority in Israel, every man to his tent—This proverbial expression may have had its foundation in the
It shows that the one could not afford to do without the other—neitlier Joab to rebel against David, nor David to get rid of Joab, though hating him.
fact, that many of the Israelite peasantry adhered to the custom of the patriarchs who tilled land, and j-et lived in tents, as Syrian peasants often do still. This was the usual watchword of national insurrection, and from the actual temper of the people, it was followed by effects be.yond wliat he probably anticipated. 3. from .Tordan even to Jernsalem—The quarrel had broken out short ly after the crossing of the Jordan, between Judah and the other tribes, who withdrew ; so that Judah w.as left nearly alone to conduct the king to the metrojiolis. 3. tlie king took tlie ten vvoincii ills concubines—Jewish writers say that the widowed queens of Hebrew monarclis were not allowed to marry again, but were obliged to pass the rest of their lives in strict seclusion. David treated his concubines in the same manner after the outrage committed on them by Absalom. They were not divorced,
If, 15. Joab Pursues Sheba unto Abel. 1-1. he went tlirongli all the tribes of Israel unto Abel—Beating up for recruits. But there the prompt marches of Joab overtook and hemmed him in by a close siege of tlie place. 15. Abel of Betli-maachah—A verdant place—the addition of " Maachah" betokening that it belonged to the dis-
trict Maachah, which lay far up the Jordan at the foot of Lebanon.
16-22. A Wise Woman Saves the City by Siieba's Head. 10. Then cried a wise woman—The appeal of this woman, who, like Deborah, was probably a juiige or governess of the place, was a strong one. 18. They were wont to speak in old time—The translation on the margin gives a better meaning, which is to this eflect: When the people saw thee lay siege to Abel, they said. Surely he will ask if we will have peace, for the law (Deuteronomy
for they were guiltless; but they were no longer publicly recognized as his wives; nor was their confinement to a sequestered life a very heavy doom, in a region where women have never been accustomed to go much abroad. 4. Th<;ii said tlie king to Amasa, Assemble me tlie men of Jiulali Avitliin tlirce days—Amasa is now installed in the command which David had promised him. The revolt of the ten tribes, probably, hastened the public declaration of this appointment, which he hoped would be popular with them, and Amasa was ordered williin three days to levy a force from Judah sufliciont to put down the insurrection. The appointment was a l)Iunder, and the Icing soon perceived his error. The specified time passed, hut Amasfi could not muster the men. Dreading the loss of time, the king gave the commission to Abishai,
20. 10) prescribes that he should offer peace to strangers, • much more then to Israelltish cities; and if he do this, \ we shall soon bring things to an amicable agreement, for we are a peaceable people. The answer of Joab brings out the character of that ruthless veteran as a patriot at heart, who, on securing the author of this insurrection, was ready to put a stop to further bloodshed, and release the peaceable inhabitants from all molestation.
23-20. David's Great Offickks. ^3. Now .Toab was over all the host of Israel—David, whatever his private wishes, found that he possessed not t he power of removing Joab; so winking at the murder of Amasa, ho re-established that olHcer in his former post of commander-
in-chief. The enumeration of David's cabinet Is hero given to show that the government was re-established lu
find iioi to .loab—a newalTront, which, no doubt, wounded
its wonted course.
tlie pride of the stern and haughty old general. lUit ho hastened with his attached soldiers to go as .second to his lirotlier, ileterinined to take the Jlrst opiiortunlty of wreaking his vengeance on his successful rival. S. Amasa went before tli<:>n—Having collec^led some forces, he by a rapid marcli overtook the expedition at (JIbeon, and asBunic<l the i)lac(! of commander; In which capaclt.y, he was saluted, a-iiiong others, by .loab. .loab's gnriueiit, that he had put on, was girded unto him— In the Cakhion of travelers and soldiers, a swurd . . . and, as
Vcr. 1-9. The Three Years' Famine for the Gibf.onITES Cease by Hanoino seven of Saul's Sons. l. The liord answered, It U for .Saul, and for his l>loody house, l>ecause he slew the Oibconites—The sacred history has not recorded eitlier the time or the reason of this massacre. Some think tliat they were sull'erers iu the
Saen of SauTs Sons Hanged. 2 SAMUEL
XXII, XXIII. Davids Faith in God!a Promises.
Jonathan his son, Ac.—^Ere long, the descent of copious showers, or perhaps an order of the king, gave Rizpah the satisfaction of releasing the corpses from their ignominious exposure; and, incited by her pious example, David ordered the remains of Saul and his sons to be transferred from their obscure grave in Jabesh-gilead to an honourable interment in the family vault at Zclah or Zelzah (1 Samuel 10. 2), now Beit-jala. 15-33. Moreover the Philistines had yet war again with Israel—Although the Philistines had completely succumbed to the army of David, yet the appearance of any gigantic champions among them revived their courage, and
atnicity perpetrated by Saul at Nob (1 Samuel 22. 19), wberp many ol them may have resided as attendants of
the priests; while others suppose it more probable that
the attempt was made afterwards, with a view to regain
the popularity he had lost throughout the nation by that execrable outrage. 3. tn his zeal to tUe children of
Israel and Judnh—Under pretence of a rigorous and
faithful execution of the Divine law regarding the extermination of tlie (,'anaanites, he set himself to expel or destroy those wliom Joshua had been deceived into
Bpariug. His real object seems to have been, that the possessions of the Gibeonites, being forfeited to tlie crown, might be divided amongst his own people (cf. 1 Samuel
stirred them up to renewed inroads on the Hebrew terri-
tory. Four successive contests they provoked during the
22. 7). \t all events, his proceeding against this people was in violation of a solemn oath, and involving national
latter period of David's reign, in the first of which the king ran so imminent a risk of his life that he was no longer allowed to encounter the perils of tlie battle-fleld.
gailt; the famine was, in the wise and just retribution of Providence, made a national punisliment, since tlie Hebrews either assisted in the massacre, or did not interpose
to prevent it; since they neither endeavoured to repair
the wrong, nor expressed any horror of it; and since a general protracted cliastisement miglit have been indispensable to inspire a proper respect and protection to the Gibeonite remnant that survived. 6. let seven of Ills song be delivered unto us, and ive will liang tUem up unto tl»e Liord—The practice of the Hebrews, as of most Oriental nations, was to slay first, and afterwards to suspend on a gibbet, the body being not left hanging after
Ver. 1-51. David's Psalm of Thanksgiving for God's Powerful Deliverance and Manifold Blessings. The song contained in this chapter is the same as the
eigliteentli Psalm, where the full commentary will be given. It may be sufficient simply to remark tliat Jewish writers have noticed a great number of very minute variations in the language of the song as recorded here, from tliat embodied in the book of Psalms—which may be accounted for by the fact that this, the first copy of the poem, was carefully revised and altered by David afterwards, when it was set to the music of the tabernacle. This inspired ode was manifestly the effusion of a mind glowing with the highest fervour of piety and gratitude, and it is full Df the noblest imagery that is to be found within the range even of sacred poetry. It is David's grand tribute of thanksgiving for deliverance from his numerous and powerful enemies, and establishing him in tlie power and glory of the kingdom.
sunset. The king could not refuse this demand of the Oibeouites, who, in making it, were only exercising their
right as blood-avengers ; and, although through fear and a sense of weakness they had not hitlierto claimed satis-
faction, yet now that David had been apprised by the
oracle of the cause of the long-prevailing calamity, he
felt it his duty to give the Gibeonites full satisfaction hence their specifying the number seven — which was reckoned full and complete. And if it should seem unjust
to make the descendants sulfer for a crime which, in all probability, originated with Saul himself, yet his sons and grandsons might be tlie Instruments of his cruelty, the willing and zealous executors of tills bloody mid. 6. the king; snid, I will give tliem—David cannot be charged with doing this as an indirect way of ridding himself of rival competitors for the throne, for those delivered up were only collateral brandies of Saul's fam-
Ver. 1-7. David Professes uis Faith in God's Promises. 1. Now these be the last words of DavidVarious opinions are entertained as to the precise meaning of this statement, which, it is obvious, jnoceeded from the compiler or collector of the sacred canon. Some think that, as there is no division of chapters in the Hebrew Scriptures, this introduction was intended to show that what follows is no part of the preceding song. Others regard this as tlie last of the king's poetical compositions; while a third jjarty consider it the last of his utterances as an inspired writer, raised up on Iilgh —From an obscure family and condition to a throne, the anointed of the God of Jacob—Chosen to be king by the special appointment of that God, to whom, by virtue of an ancient covenant, tlie people of Israel owed all their peculiar destiny and distinguished privileges, the sweet' psalmist of Israel—t. e., delightful, highly esteemed. 3.. The Spirit of the Lord spake by me—Nothing can more clearly show that all that is excellent in spirit, beautiful in language, or grand in prophetic imagery, which the Psalms of David contain, were owing, not to his superiority in natural talents or acquired knowledge, but to
ily, and never set up any claim to the sovereignty. Moreover, David was only granting the request of the Gibeonites as God had bidden him do. 8. the Ave sons of Michal the daughter of Saul whom she brought up for Adrlel—Merab, Mlchal's sister, was the wife of Adriel; but Michal adopted and brought up the boys under her care. O. they hanged them In the hill before the Lord—Deeming themselves not bound by tlie criminal law of Israel (Deuteronomy 21. 22, 23), their intention was to let the bodies hang until God, propitiated by this offering, should send rain upon the land, for the want of
It had occasioned the famine. It was a heathen practice to gibbet men with a view of appeasing the anger of the gods in sea.sons of famine, and the Gibeonites, wlio were a remnant of the Amorites (v. 2), though brought to the knowledge of the true God, were not, it seems, free from this superstition. God, in His providence, suffered the Gibeonites to ask and Inflict so barbarous a retaliation, in order that the oppressed Gibeonites niiglit obtain justice and some reparation of their wrongs, especially that the scandal brouglit on the name of tlie true religion by the violation of a solemn national compact might be wiped away from Israel, and that a memorable lesson should be given to respect treaties and oaths.
tlie suggestion and dictates of God's Spirit. 3. tl»e Rock, of Israel—This metaphor, which Is commonly applied by the sacred writers to the Almighty, was very expi-essive to the minds of the Hebrew people. Their national fortresses, in which they souglit .securitytn war, were built on high and Inaccessible rocks, spake to me Eitlier preceptlvely, giving the following (;ounsels respecting the character of an upright ruler in Israel, or prophetically, concerning David and his royal dynasty, and the great Messiah, of whom many thl->k this is a prophecy, rendering the words, "lie that ruleth"—"thei-e shall be a ruler over men." 4. as the tender gross springing out of the earth hy clear shining after rnin —Little patclies of grass are seen rapidly springing np in Palestine after rain ; and even where the ground has been
10, 11. RizpAn's Kindness unto the Dead. 10. Rlzpah . . . took sackcloth, and spread It for her upon the rock—She erected a tent near the spot, in which herself and her servants kept watch, as the relatives of executed persons were wont to do, day and night, to scare
tlie birds and beasts of prey away from the remains exposed on the low-standing gibbets.
12-22. David Bijkiks the Bones ok Saui< and Jonathan IN THBIK Father's Seimtlchke. Vi. Daviil went and took the bones of Soul, and the bones of
20»
A Lilt of David's Mighty Men. 2 SAMUEL XXIT. lie Numbers the PeopU,
long parched and bare, within a few days or honrs after the enr)rhin<j sliowers begin to fall, the face of the earth
plons In David's military staff were divided into three (glasses-the highest, Jashobeam, Eleazar, and .Shammah ; the second class, Abishai, Bonaiah, and Asahel ; and the third class, the thirty, of which Asahel was the chief. There are tliirty-oue mentioned in the list, incJuiling Asahel ; and these added to tlie two superior orders iiiak* thirty-seven. Two of them, we know, were already dead, viz., Asahel and Uriah; and if the dead, at the drawing up of the list, amounted to seven, then we miglil suppos* a legion of honour, consisting of the definite number thirty, and where the vacancies, when they occnrreil, were replaced by fresh appointments.
Is so n neweil as tliat it is covered over with a pnre fresli mantle of green. 5. Altlvan;;}i my house be not so with God, yet lie liatli made witli ine an everlasting covenant, ordered In all tilings and sure—"The liglit of tlie morniiiK," i.e., the beginning of David's kingdom, was nnlilie tlie clear brilliant dawn of an Eastern day, overcast by many black and threatening clouds; neither himself nor his family had been like the tender grass springing up from the ground, and flourishing by the united influences of the sun and rain ; but rather like the grass that witliereth, and Is prematurely cut down. The meaning is, that although David's house had not flourished in an uninterrupted course of worldly prosperity and greatness, according to his hopes; although great crimes and calamities had beclouded his family history; some of the most promising branches of the royal tree had been cut down in his lifetime; and many of his successors should suffer in like manner for their personal sins; although many reverses and revolutions may overtake his race and his kingdom, yet it was to him a sul)ject of the highest Joy and thankfulness that God will inviolably maintain his covenant with his family, until the advent of his greatest Son, the Messiah, who was the special object of his desire, and the author of his salvation. 6. But the sons of Belial shall be all of them as thorns i. e., the wicked enemies and persecutors of this kingdom of righteousness. They resemble those prickly, thorny plants whicli are twisted together, whose spires point in every direction, and are so sharp and strong that they cannot be touched or approached without danger; but hard inutruments and violent means must be take^ to destroy or uproot them. So God will remove or destroy all who are opposed to this kingdom.