Bible Commentary (1871–1879 Edition) (continued)
Blessing!- Jor Obedience, DEUTEFvOXOMY XXVIII. and Ihe Curses /or DLsobedimce, of the solemn assembly, the priests standing round the ark in the valley below, said aloud, looliiug to (jerizim, "Blessed is the man that maketli not any graveii image," When the people ranged on tliat hill responded in lull firaultaneous sliouts of "Amen;" then turning round to Ebal, they cried, "Cursed is the man that maltetli anj' graven image;" to wliich those that covered the ridge ansvv'Cied, "Amen." The same course at every pause was followed with all tile blessings and curses (see on Joshua of licart—they would be bewildered and paralyzed with terror at the extent of their calamities. aO-33. tlioa slialt grope at noonday—a general description of the painful uncertainty in which they would live. During t!ie middle ages the Jews were driven from society into hiding-places which they were afraid Jto leave, not knowing from what quarter they might be assailed, and their ciiildren dragged into captivity, from which no friend could rescue, and no moiKy random them. 35. tlic ILord sliall smite dee in tite luiees aiitl in tlic legs—this is an exact description of elephantiasis, a horrible diser.se, something like leprosy, which attacks particulaily the lower extremities. 3tt. Tbc Lord shall bring tltee and tliy king—This shows how widespread would be the national calamity; and at the same time how hopeless, when he wlu) should have been their defender shared the captive fate of his subjects, tliere slualt thon serve otber go<ls, wood and stone—The Hebrew exiles, with some honourable exceptions, were seduced or compelled into idolatry in tlie Assyrian and Babylonish captivities (Jeremiah 44. 17-19). Thus, the sin to which they had too often betrayed a perverse fondness, a deep-rooted propensity, became their punishment and their misery. 37. thon Shalt become an astonishment, a proverl*, and a byword among all natioits whither tike Lord sliall, ikc. —The annals of almost every nation, for eighteen hundred years, alford abundant proofs that this has been, as it still
8. S'-i, 81). These curses attendant on disobedience to the Divine will, whicli had been revealed as a law from heaven, be it observed, are given in the form of a declaration, not a Irish, as the words sliould be rendered, " Cursed is he," and not "Cursed be he."
CHAPTER XXVIII.
Ver. 1-6''. The Blessings FOR Obedience. 1. iftlioH slialt lifarkeii diligently iiuto tike voiee of tSie Lord tliy God—In tliis chapter the blessings and curses are enumerated at lengtli, and in various minute details, so that on tlie first entrance of tlie Israelites into the land of promise, their whole destiny was laid before them, as it was to result from their obedience or tlie contrary. 'Z6. AH tiiese biessi Jigs sliall come on tliee—tlieir nalional obedience was to be rewarded by extraordinary and universal prosperity. 7. flee before tliee seven waj-s— /. c, in various directions, as always happens in a rout. 10. calleiJ by tlif name of tUc Lord i. c, are really an(i actually His people (eh. It. 1 ; 26. 18). 11. TSie I,oi-d sUall jnaUe tliee jjienlcons in goods—Beside the natural capabilities of Canaan, its extraordinary fruitlulness was traceable to the special blessing of Heaven, la. TKc Lord shall open imto t5\ee Uis good treasure—The seasonable supply of tiie early and latter rain was one of the principal means by which their land was so uncommonly fruitful, tboii sHnlt lend unto many nations, and stiall not borrow i. e., thou shall be in such aliluent circum Btaiices, as to be capable, out of thy superfluous wealth, to give aid to thy poorer neighbours. 13, 14. tbc liead and not flic tail—an Oriental form of expression, indicating the possession of independent powi>r and great iligtiity and acivtiowledged excellence (Isaiah 9. 1 1 ; 1!). 1.')). l."»-^0. But if tUou wilt not liearken unto the voice of tbe ioi-d—Curses that were to follow them in the event of disobedience ai'e now enumerated, and they ai'e almost exact counterparts to the blessings which were described in the preceiling context, ,as the reward of a faitlilul adherence to the covenant, ai. pestilence—some fatal epidemic; tliere is no reason, liowever, to think that the plague, which is the great modern scourge of the East, is I'eferr(nl to. 'M. a ennsnniplion—a waslingdisorder; but the European plitliisis is almost unknown in Asia, fever . . . tntlamniation . . . extreme burning—(fever is rendered "burning ague" (Leviticus 20. 10), and the others mentioned along with it evidently point to those febrile ad'eclions wliich are of malignant charact(:r and great frequency in the East. tUe sword—rather " dryness,"—the ejfect on the human body of such violent disorders, lilastiuf; ajid mildew—two atmosiiheric inllueiices fatal to grain. ^3. lieuven . . . brass . . . eartli . . . iron—strong Oriental figures used to d( scrilie the effects of long-continued drought; and this want of regular and seasonable rain is allowed by the most intelligent observers to be one great cause of the present sterility of Palest i in;. Si'l. tl«e rain of tliy land powder and dust—An allusion i>robably to the dreaillul ellects of tornadoes in the Kast, which, raising the sand in immense twisted pillars, drive them along with the fury of a tempest. These shifting sands are most destiuctive to cultiv.at,ed Lands; .and in conseqiumee of their encroachments, many once fertile regions of (he I'ast are now barren <ieserts. '^7, tl»e botcii of Kgypt— is, the case—the very name of Jew being a universally recognized term for extreme degradation and wretchedness. 49. the Lord sliall bring a nation against thee from far—The invasion of the Itomans—"they came from far." The soldiers of the invading army were taken from France, Spain, and Britain—then considered " the end of the earth." Julius .Severus, the commander, afterwards Vespasian and Hadrian, left Britain for the scene of contest. Moreover, the ensign on the standards of the Roman army was^'an eagle;" and the dialects spoken by the soldiers of the different nations that composed that army were altogether unintelligible to tlie Jews. 50. A natlou of fierce countenance — A just description of the Romans, who were not only bold and unyielding, but ruthless and implacable. 51. he sltall eat the fruit of thy cattle, Ac—According to tlie Jewish historian, every district of the country through which they passed was strewed with the wrecks of their dev.astation. 51. He sliall besiege tltee until thy Iisgh and fenced walla come down—.Ml the fortified places to which the people betook themselves for safety, were burnt or demolished, and the walls of Jerusalem itself razed to the ground. 53-57. tlioii shalt eat the fruit of tliine own body (See on 2 Kings 6. 29; Lamentations 4.10.) Such were the dreadful extremities to which the inhabitants during the siege were reduced, that many women sustained a wretched existence by eating the ffesh of their own children. Parental affection was extinguished, and tlu' nearest relatives were jealously avoided, lest they should discover anil demand a share of the revolting viands, ca. ye sliall be few in number—There has been, ever since the destruction of Jerusalem, only an inconsiderable remnant ol Jews existing in that land—aliens in the land of their fathers; and of all classes of the inhabitants they are the most degraded and miserable beings, dependent for their support on contributions from Europe. C3. ye shall I>e plucked from ofl' tlie land—Hadrian issued a in'oclaiiiation, Ibibidding any Jews to reside in Jndea, or even to apiiroaeh its contines. 04. The Lord sliall scatter thee among all people—There is, perhaps, not a country In tlie world where .Tews are not to be found. Who that looks on this condition of the Hebrews is not fllled with awe, when he considers the fulfilment of this prophecy? r>S. The I.ortl shall lining thee into Kgypt again with ships—The accomplishment of tliis jiredtetion took place under Til lis, when, according to JosepluiR, multitudes of .lews were transiiorted In ships to the land oftlK Nile, and sol<l as slaves. " Here, then, are InstnncM of i)roi)lieci(-s delivered above lliree thousand years ago; and yet, as we see, being fnlti Ued In the world at this very time; and what stronger proofs can we desire of the DU troublesome eruption, marked by red pimples, to which, at the rising of the Nile, tin; Egyptians are subject, cmerodii—tlstuho or piles, scab—scurvy, itcli—the disease commonly known that name; but It is far more malignant in the East than Is ever witnessed in our jiart of the world. 'ZH. inudiiesfc, bliiidneW) and uatonigliment 138
An Exhortation to Obedience. DEUTERONOMY XXIX, XXX. Mercy to the Penitent.
His threatening. Who can resist tlie eonclusiou that it has been in Jlicted " because the iiilialiitaiils had forsaken the covenant of the Lord God of their latlieis, and the anger of the Lord was kindled against this land, to bring upon it all the curses that are written in this bdok?" ;49. Tlie secret tilings belong unto tlie Lord—This verse lias no apparent connection with the thread of discourse; and vine legation of Moses 7 How these instances may affect others I know not; but for myself, I must acknowledge, they not only convince but amaze and astonish me beyond expression; they are truly, as Moses foretold {vs. io,
tliey would be, 'a sign and a wonder for ever.'" [Bishop
Kewtois".]
CHAPTER XXIX.
it is thought to have been said in answer to the looks of astonishment or the words of inquiry, whether they would be ever so wicked as to deserve such punishments. Tlie recorded history of God's providential dealings towards Israel presents a wonderlul combination of "goodness and severity." There is much of it involved in mystery too profound for our limited capacities to liilliom;
Ver. 1-29. An Exhobta'tiox to Obedience. 1. Tliese
tlie words of tlie covenaut The discourse of Moses is continued, and the subjectof that discourse was Israel's covenant witli God, the privileges it conferred, and the oblig.ations it imposed, beside tlie covenant -wljicli Ue nia<ie wltli tliem i» Horelj—It was substantially the but, from the comprehensive wisdom disphij'ed in those parts which have been made known to us, we are prepared to enter into the full spiritof the apostle's exclama-
Riiiiie ; but It was renewed now, in different circumstances.
Tliey had violated its conditions. Moses rehearses these, th;\t they migiit haveabetter knowledgeof its condiiions, tion, How uiiseai'chable are His judgments(l!,oinansll. ;>j).
Riid be more disposed to comply with tliem. a. Closes CiiUcd luito all Israel, Ye liave seen all tli.it tlie Lord' did, itc—This appeal to the experience of the people,
CHAPTER XXX.
made generally, was applicable only to that portion of them who had been very young at the period of
%'er. 1-10. Grkat Mekcies promised xtnto TitE PknITENT. 3. When all tliese tilings are come upon tli<^ Exodus, and who remembered the marvellous transactions that preceded and followed that era. Yet, alas! those wonderful events made no good Impression upon them (v. 4). They were strangers to that grace of wisdora tiice, and <]i<m slialt return . . . tlien tiie liord si>ull turn tliy captivity—The hoj)es of the Hebrew people are ardently directed to this promise, ami they contidently expect that God, commiserating their Ibrlorn s.ud fallen condition, will yet rescue tliem from all the evils of tlieir long dispersion". They do not consider the promise as fulw!)i<-h is liberally given to all who ask it; and their insensiliility was all the more inexcusable that so many miracles had been performed which might have led to a cei iain conviction of the presence and tlie power of God with them. The preservation of their clotlies and slioes, tne supply of daily food and fresli water; these continued without interruption or diminution during so many years' filled by their restoration from the cajiti vity in Babylon, for Israel was not then scattered in the manner li<Me described—"among all the nations," " unto the utmost jiarts of heaven" (f. 4,i; and when God recalled tliem from that bondage, all the Israelites were not lii'oiight back, they were not multiplied above their lathers {v. 5), nor were their hearts and tliose of their children circumcised to love the Lord (v. 6). It is not, thei'efore, of the Babylonish captivity that Moses was speaking in this passage; it must be of the dispersed state to which tliey have been doomed for 1800 years. This prediction may have been partially accomplished on the return of the Israelites from Babylon ; for, according to the structure and design of Scripture proplieey, it may have pointed to several similar eras in their national liistory; and this view is sanctioned by the prayer of Nelicmiah (Nelieniiah 1. 8, 9). But undoubtedly it will receive its full and complete acconiplislimont in the conversion of the Jews to the Gospel of Christ. At the restoration from the Babylonish cap-
B'ljcj'.u n in the desert, were miracles which iinniistakablj' proclaimed the immediate hand of God, and were performed for the express purpose of training them to a practi<'al knowledge of and habitual confidence in Him. Tlieir experience of this extraordinary goodness and care, together with their remembrance of the brilliant successes bj' which, with little exertion or loss on Ilieir part, God enabled them to acquire the valuable territory on which tliey stood, is mentioned again to enforce a faithful adlierence to the covenant, as the direct and sure means of obtaining its promised blessings. 10-29. Ye si«a»d tliis day, ail of you, before tUe Lord—The whole congregation of Israel, of all ages and conditions, all—young as well as old ; menials as well as masters; native Israelites as well as naturalized strangers—all were assembled before the tabernacle to renew the Sinaitic covenant. None of them were allowed to consider themselves as ex(>mpt from the terms of that national compact, lest any lapsing into idolatry might prove a root of bitterness, spreading Us noxious seed and corrupt influence all around (cf. Hebrews 12. 15). It was of the greatest consequence thus to reach the heart and conscience of every one, for some might delude tliemselves with the vain idea tliat by taking the oath (v. 12) by which they engaged tliemselves in covenant with God. they would secure its blessings; and even though they onould not rigidly adhere to His worsnip and commands, but follow the devices and inclinations of their own hearts, yet that He would wink at such liberties and not punish them. It was of the greatest consequence to impress all with the strong and abiding conviction, that wliile the covenant of grace had special blessings belonging to it, it at the same time had curses in reserve for transgressors, tlie int Jiction of which would be as certain, as lasting and severe. This w.as the advantage contemplated In the law being reliearsed a second time. Thepictureof a once rich and nourishing region, blasted and doomed In consequence of the sins of Its inhabitants. Is very striking, and calculati'd to awaken awe In every refle<!ting mind. Such Is, and long has Ijeen, the desolate state of Palestine; and. In looking at its ruined cities, its blasted coast. Its naked mountains, its sterile and parched soil—all the sad and unmistakable evidences of a land lying under a curse, numliersof travellers from Europe, America, and the Indies—"strangers from a far country" tivity, that people were changed in many respects for the better. They were completely weaned fr(mi sensible idolatry; and this outward reformation was a prelude to the higher attainments they are destined to reach in the age of Messiah, " when the Lord God will circumcise their hearts and the hearts of their seed to love the Lord." The course pointed out seems clearly to be this : that the iK.arla of the Hebrew people shall be circumcised ((.'olossians
2.2); in other words, by the combined influences of the Word and Spirit of God, their hearts will be touched and purilied from all their superstition and unbelief; they will be converted to the faith of Jesus Christ as their Messiah—a spiritual deliverer, and the eli'ect of their conversion will lie that they will return and obey the voice (the Gospel, tlie evangelical law) of the Lord. The words may be interpreted eitlier wholly in a spiritual sense (.lolin 11.
51, 52), or, as many think, in a literal sense also (Romans
11). They will be recalled from all places of the disiiersiou to their own land, and enjoy the highest prosperity. The mercies and favours of a liountiful Providence will not then be abused as formerly (ch. 81. 20; .'12. 15). They will be received in a betttnspirit, and employed to nobler jiurposes. They will be happy, "for the Lord will again rejoice over them for good, as He rejoiced over their fathers."
11-11. The Commandment is Manifest. 11-14. for tliiscoiniiiandnient Is not liiddeii, iieltlier far olT—That law of loving and obeying God which was the subject of Moses' discourse, was well known to the Israelites. They could not plead ignorance of its existence and require*
(t. 22)—in too present day see that the Lord has executed
TJte People and Joshua Encouraged. DEUTERONOMY XXXI, XXXII. 7^1 e Song of Mosea.
turn of the sabbatic year, and during the feast of tabernacles, the law was to be publicly read. This order of Moses was a future and prospective arrangement ; for the observance of the sabbatic ,vear did not commence till the conquest and peaceful occupation of Canaiin. Tlie ordinance was subservient to several important purposes. For, while the people had opportunities of being instructed in the law every Sabbath, and daily in their own homes, this public periodical rehearsal at meetings in the courts of the sanctuary, where women and children of twelve years were present, as they usually were at the great festivals, was calculated to produce good and pious impressions of Divine truth amid the sacred associations of the time and place; besides, it formed a public guarantee for the preservation, integrity, and faithful transmission of raents. It was not concealed as an impenetrable mystery in heaven, for it had been revealed ; nor was it cavefuUj' withheld IVom tlie people as a dangerous discovery; for the youngest and humblest of them were instructed in those truths, which were subjects of earnest study and research among the wisest and greatest of other nations. They were not under a necessity of undertaking long journey's or distant voyages, as many ancient sages did In quest of knowledge. They enjoyed the peculiar privilege of a familiar acquaintance with it. It was with tliem ii subject of common conversation, engraven on their memories, and frequently explained and inculcated on their hearts. The apostle Paul (Romans 10. 6-S) has applied this passage to the Gospel, for the law of Christ is substantially the same as that of Moses, only exhibited more clearlj' in its spiritual nature and extensive application, and, accompanied with the advantages of Gospel grace, \s practicable and easy.
the Sacred Book to successive ages. 14, 15. the Lord said nnto Moses, Call Joshua, ajid present yourselves to the tal>ernaele of the congregation—Joshua liad been publicly designated to the ofliee of commander by Moses; and God was pleased to confirm his appointment by the visible symbols of His presence and approval. As none but the priests were privileged to enter the sanctuary, it is probal)le that this significant manifestation of the cloudy pillar was made while the leaders stood at the door of the tabernacle. 1G-2 J. The Lord said unto Moses . . . This people win rise np—In this remarkable i nterview, Moses was distinctlj apprised of the infidelity of Israel, their corruptions of the true religion through intercourse with the idolatrous inhabitants of Canaan (An)os 5. 20), and their chastisements in consequence of those national defections. 17. then my aikger sliall be ktuflled, and I will hide my face from them—An announcement of the withdrawal of the Divine favour and protection of which the Shechinah was the symbol and pledge. It never appeared in the second temple; audits non-appearance was a prelude of "all the evils that came upon them, because th(Mr God was not among them." Xow therefore write ye this song—National songs take deep hold
15-20. Death and Life are set before the Israelites, l.j-ao. See, I have set before thee this day, life ami death i. e., the alternative of a good and happy, or a disobedient and miserable life. Love of God, and compliance with His will, are the only ways of securing the blessings and avoiding the evils described. The choice was left to themselves, and In urging upon them the inducements to a wise choice, Moses warmed as he pro ceeded into a tone of solemn and impressive earnestness similar to that of Paul' to the elders of Ephcsus (Acts
20. 26, 27). CHAPTER XXXI.
Ver, IS. Moses encourageth the Peorle and Joshua. 1. Moses went and spake—It is probable that this rehearsal of the law extended over several successive days; and it might be the last and most important day on which the return of Moses to the place of assembly is specially noticed. In drawing his discourse towards a conclusion, ho adverted to his advanced age; and altliough neither his physical nor intellectual powers had suffered any decay (eli. 84. 7), yet he knew by a special revelation, that the time had arrived when he wau about to be withdrawn from the superintendence and government of Israel. 2-8. also <he Lord hitth said—should be "for the Lord hath said" thou Shalt not go over this Jordan. "While taking a solemn leave of the people, he exhorted them not to be intimidated by the menacing opposition of enemies; to take encouragement from the continued presence of their covenanted God; and to rest assured that the same Divine power which had enable<l tliein to discomfit their first assailants on the east of Jordan, would aid them not less effectually in the adventurous enterprise whicrh they were about to undertake, and by which tney would obtain possession of "the land which He had sworn nnto their fathers to give them."
ol the memories, and have a powerful influence in stirring the deepest feelings of a people; and in accordance with this principle in human nature, a song was ordered to be comiiosed by Moses, doubtless under Divine inspiration; which was to be learnt by the Israelites themselves, and to be taught to their children in ever.y age, embodying the substance of the preceding addresses, and of a strain well suited to inspire the jiopular mind with a strong sense of Goil's favour to their nation. 20. Take this book of the law, and put It In the side of the ark—The second copy of the law (see on v.i)) was deposited for greater security and reverence in a little chest beside the ark of the covenant, for there was nothing contained within it but the tables of stone. (1 Kings S. 9.) Others think it was put within the ark, it being certain, fl-oni the testimony of Paul (Hebrews 0. 41, that there were once other things inside tlie ark. and that this was the copy found in the time of Josiah. (2 Kings 22. 8.)
9-13. He delivers the Law to the Priests, to read IT every Seventh Year to the People. 9-13. niosea wrote this law, and delivered It unto the priests—Tlie law thus committed to writing was eitlier the whole l)ook of Deuteronomy, or the important part of It contained between the twenty-seventh and thirtieth eliapters. Itwas usual in cases of public or private contract for two copies of the engagement to be made—one to be deposited in the national archives, or some secure place for reference, should occasion require; the other to remain in the liands of thecontracting parties. (Jeremiah 32. 12-11.) Thesamo course was followed on tliis renewal of tlie covenant between God anil Israel. Two written copies of the law were prepared, the one of which was delivered to tlie jjublic reprpsentativi'S of Israel, viz., the priests and the elders, the priests, wlio hare the nrk of the covenant—In all ordinary journeys, it was tlie common duty of the Levites to carry tlie ark anrl its furniture (Numbers 1. LI); but, on solemn or exi niordina ry occasions, that office was discharged l)y the priests. (Joshua 3. 3-8; 6. 0; I Chronicles lo.
CHAPTER XXXII.
Ver. 1-13. MosES' Song, which sets forth the Perfections OF God. 1. Give ear, O ye heavens) hes-r, O earlh—The magnificence of the exordium, the grandeur of the theme, tlie frequiiit and sudden tniiisilions, the elevated strain of the sentiments and language, entitle this song to be ranked amongst the noblest specimens of poi'try to bo found in the Scriptures. 'Z, :i. Mydoetrln« shall drop, &c.—the language may justly be Inkeii as uttered in the form of a wish or prayer, and the comparls(m of wholesome Instruction to the pure, gentle, and insinuating influence of rain or dew, is frequently made by the sacred writers. (Isaiah 5. (i; &"). 10, 11.) 4.11c Is tli« Kock—a word expressive of power and stabilit.v. The ap))llcation of it in this passage is to declare that (iod had been true to His covenant witli their fathers and them. Nothing that He had promised had failed ; so that if their national exiierlence had been painfully clieciuered by severe and protracted trials, notwithstanding tlie brightest promises, that result was traceable to their own uudutlfuJ
11,12.) all the elders of Israel—they were assistants to the priests and oversecM's to take care of the prcserval ion, rehearsal, and observance of the law. 10. j\t the end of •very seven years, thou slialt read Ihls law—At the re140
Tlie Song oj Moses. DEUTERONOMY XXXIII. The Mujesty of God.
that they would consider their latter end—the terrible judgments, which, in the event of their continued and incorrigible disobedience, would impart so awful a character to the close of their national history. 32. vine ot Sodom . . . grapes of gall—This fruit, which the Arabs call "Lot's Sea oPange," is of a bright yellow colour, and grows in clusters of three or four. When mellow, it is tempting in appearance, but on being struck, explodes like a pulf-ball, consisting of skin and fibre only. 44-41". Moses spake all the words of this song In the ears, &c. —It has been beautifully styled "the Song of the Dying Swan." [LowTH.] It was designed to be a national anthem, which it should be the duty and care of magistrates to make well known by frequent repetition, to animate the people to right sentiments towards a steadfast adherence to His service. 48-51. Get thee up and die, because ye trespassed at Merihah—(See on Numbers 20. 12.) 53. Thou Shalt see the land, but slialt not go tltither— (Numbers 27. 12.) Notwithstanding so severe a disappointment, not a murmur or complaint escapes his lips; he is not only resigned but acquiescing; and in the near prospect of his death, he pours forth the feelings of his devout heart in sublime strains and eloquent blessings.
and perverse conduct; not to any vacillation or unfaithfulness on the part of God (James 1. 1"), whose procedure was marked by justice and judgment, wliether they had been exalted to prosperity, or plunged into the depths of affliction. 3. Tliey have corrupted themselves i. e., the Israelites by their frequent lapses and their inveterate attachment to idolatry, their spot is not the spot of Iilg children—This is an allusion to the marks which idolaters Inscribe on their foreheads or their arms, with paint or other substances, in various colours and forms,—straight, aval, or circular, according to the favourite idol of tlieir worship. 0. Is He not thy fatlier that bought thee—or emancipated thee from Egyptian bondage, and made thee—advanced the nation to unirecedented and peculiar privileges. 8,9. When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance—In the division of the earth, which Noah is believed to have made by Divine direction (Genesis 10.5; ch. 2. 5-9; Acts 17. 20, 27), Palestine was reserved by the wisdom and goodness of Heaven for the possession of his peculiar people, and the display of the most stupendous wonders. The theatre was small, but admirably suited for the convenient observation of the human race—at the junction of the two great continents of Asia and Africa, and almost withinsightof Europe. From this spot as from a common centre, the report of God's wonderful works, theglad tidings of salvation through the obedience and sufferings of his own eternal Son, miglit be rapidl.v and easily wafted to every part of the globe.
CHAPTEE XXXIII. Ver. 1-2S. The Majesty of God. 1. Moses, the man of God—This was a common designation of a prophet
(1 Samuel 2. 27; 9. 6), and it is here applied to Moses, when, like Jacob, he was about to deliver ministerially before his death, a prophetic benediction to Israel. 2-4. The Lord came—under a beautiful metaphor, borrowed from the dawn and progressive splendour of the sun, the Majesty of God is sublimely described as a Divine light which appeared in Sinai, and scattered Its beams on all theadjolningregion in directing Israel's march to Canaan. In these descriptions of a theophania, God is represented as coming from the south, and the allusion is in general to the thunderings and lightnings of Sinai ; but other mountains in tlie same direction are mentioned with it. The location of Seir was on the east of the Glior; mount Paran was either the chain on the west of the Ghor, or rather the mountains on the southern border of the desert towards the peninsula. [Robinson.] (Cf. Judges 5. 4, 5; Psalm 68. 7, 8; Habakkuk 3.3.) ten thousand saintsrendered by some, "with the ten thousand of Kadesh," or perhaps better still, "from Meribah-kadesh." [Ewai.d.] a fiery law—so called both because of the thunder and lightning which accompanied its promulgation (Exodus
He set the bonndb of the people according to the number of the elilldren of Israel—Another rendering, which ha-s received the .sanction of eminent .scholars, has been proposed as follows : " When the Most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when He separated the sons of Adam, and set the bounds of every people, the children of Israel were few in numbers, when the Lord chose that people and made Jacob His inheritance" (cf. ch. 30. 5 ; Genesis 31. 30; Psalm 105. 9-12). 10. found him in a desert land—took him into a covenant relation at Sinai, or rather "sustained," " pi'ovided for him " in a desert land, a waste howling wilderness-a common Oriental expression for a desert infested by wild beasts. 11. as an eagle fluttereth over her young—This beautiful and expressive metaphor Is founded on the extraordinary care and attachment which the female eagle cherishes for her young. When her newly-tledgcd progeny are sufficiently advanced to soar in their native element, she, in their first attempts at flying, supports them on the tip of her wing, encouraging, directing, and aiding their feeble efforts to longer and sublimer flights. So did God take the most tender and powerful care of His chosenpeople; He carried them out of Egypt and led them through all the horrors of the wilderness to the promised inheritance. 13, 14-. He made him ride on tl>c high jjlaces, <tc.—All these expressions seem to have peculiar reference to their home in the transjordanic territory; that being the whole of Palestine that they had seen at the tinie when ^^oses is represented as uttering these words—" the high places" and " the fields" are ^ecially applicable to the table-lands of Gilea<l; and still more, the allusions to the herds and fiocks,—the honey of the wild bees which hive in the crevices of the rocks, the oil from the olive as it grew, singly or in small clumps, on the tops of hills, where scarcely anything else would grow, the finest wheat (Psalm 81. 16; 147. 14), and the prolific vintage, ir,. But •Jeahnmn waxed fat and kicked—This is a poetical name for Israel. The metaphor here used Is derived from a pampered animal, which. Instead of being tame and gentle, becomes mischievous and vicious, in con.sequence of good living and kind treatment. So did the Israelites conduct tliemselvos by their various acts of rebellion, murmuring, and Idolatrous apostasy. 17. Tlxcy sacrillccd nnto devils—<8ee on li Cvltlcus 17. 7.) 21. those which are not a people i. e., not favoured with such great and peculiar privileges as the Israelites, or rather poor, despised heathens; the language points to the future nailing of the Gentiles. !i3. 1 will spend mine arrows upon them—war, famine, pestilence (Psalm 77. 17) are ou Ued In .Scripture the arrows of the Almighty. 29. Oh
19. 16-18; ch. 4. 11), and of the fierce, unrelenting curse denounced against the violation of its precepts (2 Corinthians 3. 7-9). Notwithstanding those awe-inspiring symbols of Majesty that were displayed on Sinai, the law was really given in kindness and love (ri. 3), as a means of promoting both the temporal and eternal wellare of the people; and it was " the inheritance of the congregation of Jacob," not only from the hereditary obligatiou under which that people were laid to observe it, but from its being the grand distinction, the peculiar privilege of the nation. 6. Let Reuben live and not die—Although deprived of the honour and privileges of primogeniture, he was still to hold rank as one of the tribes of Israel. He was more numerous than several other tribes (Numbers
1. 21 ; 2. 11), yet gradually sunk into a mere nomadic tribe, which had enough to do merely "to live and not die." Many eminent biblical scholars, resting on the most ancient and approved manuscripts of the Septuagint, consider the latter clause as referring to Simeon; "and Simeon, let his men be few," a reading of the text which
Is In harmony with other statements of .Scripture respecting this tribe (Numbers 25.6-14; 1.23; 20. 14; .Ioshu>%
19. 1). 7. This is the blessing of Judal»—Its general purport points to the great power and independence of Judah, as well as its taking the lead In all militar.v expeditions. 8-10. Of Levi lie said—The burden of this blessing Is the appointment of the Levltes to the dignified and sacred office of the priesthood (Leviticus 10. 11; ch.22. 8; 17.8-11); a reward for their zeal In supporting the cause of God, and their unsparing severity In chastising eveu
Moses Bksseth the Tribes. DEUTEnoXOMY XXXIV. The Death of Mosa.
their nearest and dearest revatives who had participated In tlie idolatry of the molten calf (Exodus 32. 2>28; cf. Malachi 2. 4-6). Ti. Of Benjamin lie said—A distinguisliiug favour was conferred on this tribe in having its portion assigned near the temple of G#d. between liis shoulders— t. p., on his sides or borders. Mount Zion, on
This chapter appears from internal evidence to have been written subsequentl}' to the death of Moses, and it probably formed, at one time, an introduction to the book of Josli ua. unto tlie mountain of Nebo, to the top of Piagah lit., the head or summit of the Pisgah,—i.e., the heiglit (cf. Numbers 23. 14; ch. 3. 17-27; 4. 49). The general name given to the whole mountain range east of Jordan, was A.l)arim (cf. eh. 32. 49), and the peak to which Moses ascended was dedicated to the heathen Nelio.as Balaam's standing-place had been consecrated to Peer. Some modern travellers have fixed on Jebel-Attarus, a high mountain south of the Jabbok (Zurka), as the Nelio of th.is passage. [BuKCKHARDT, Seetzen, Ac] But It is situated too far nortli for a height wliieh, being described as "over against Jericho," must be looked for above the last stage of the Jordan, the Lord showed htm all the land of Gllead—That pastoral region was discernible at the northern extremity of the mountain-line on which he stood, till it ended, far beyond his sight in Dan. Westward, there were on the horizon, the distant hills of "all Naphfali." Coming nearer, was "the land of Ephraim and Mauasseh." Immediately opposite was "all the land of Judali,"a title at first restricted to the portion of this tribe, beyond which were " the utmost sea" (the Mediterranean) and tlie Besert of the " South." These were tho four great marks of the future inheritance of his people, on which the narrative fixes our attention. Immediately below him was "the circle" of the plain of Jericlio, with
U-hicli stood the city of Jerusalem, belonged to Judah; but Mount, Moriah, the site of the siicred edifice, lay in the confines of Benjamin. 13-17. of JosepU lie said—The territory of this tribe, diversified by hill and dale, wood and water, would be rich in all the productions—olives, grapes, figs, &c., that are reared in a mountainous region, as well as in the grain and herbs that grow in the level fields. "The firstling of the bullock and the horns of the unicorn" (rhinoceros), indicate glory and strength, and it is supposed that under these emblems were shadowed forth the triumphs of Joshua and the new kingdom of Jeroboam, both of whom were of Ephraim (cf. Genesis iH. 20). 18, 19. ZebiilMn, rejoice in tliy going out—on coniniercial enterprises and voyages by sea. and Issacliar in tl>y tents—preferring to reside in their maritime towns, sliall suck of tlie abundance of tl»e sea, and treasures liid in the sand—Both tribes should trafiic with the Phceuicians In gold and silver, pearl and coral, especially in murcx, the shell-fish that yielded the famous Tyriun dye, and in glass, which was manufactured from the sand of the river Belus, in their immediate neighbourhood. 20, 21. Of Gad he said—Its possessions were larger than they would have been had they lain west of Jordan; and this tribe liad the honour of being settled by Moses himself in the first portion of land conquered. In the forest region, south of the Jabbok, "he dwelt as a lion" (cf. Genesis 30. 11; 49. 19). Notwithstanding, they faithfully kept their engagement to join the "heads of the people" in the invasion of Canaan. 33. Dan is a lion's whelp—His proper settlement in the south of Canaan being too small, he by a sudden and successful irruption, established a colony in the northern extremity of tlic land. This miglit well be described as the leap of a young lion from tlie hills of Bashan. 33. of Naphtall he said—The pleasant and fertile territory of this tribe lay to "the west," on the borders of lakes Merom and Chinnerelli, and to "the south" of tlie nortliern Danites.
its oasis of pabn trees; and far away on his left, the last inhabited spot before the great desert " Zoar." The foreground of the picture alone was clearly discernible. There was no miraculous power of vision imparted to Moses. That he sliould see all that is described Is what any man could do, if he attained sufficient elevation. The atmosphere of the climate is so subtle and free from vapour, that the sight is carried to a distance of wliieh the beholder, who judges from the more dense air of Europe, can form no idea. [Vere Monro.] But between him and that "good land" the deep valley of the Jorchia intervened; "he was not to go over thither." 5. So Mosra died—After having governed the Israelites forty years. 6. he buried him—or, "he was buried in a valley," i. e., a ravine or gorge of the Pisgah. Some think tliat he entered a cave and there died, being, according to an ancient tradition of Jews and Christians, buried by angels (Judo gi., 25. of Asher lie said—The condition of this tribe is described as combining all the elements of earthly felicity, dip his foot in oil—These words allude eitiier to the process of extracting the oil by foot presses, or to liis district as p.articularly fertile, and adapted to tlie culture of the olive, slioes of iron and brass—These shoes suited his rocky coast from Carmel to Sidon. Country people as well as ancient warriors had their lower extreiiiitic>s protected by metallic greaves (1 Samuel 17. (>; Eplicsians (i. 15) and iron-soled slioes. 36-39. There is none like nnto the God of .Teshui'un—The chapter eoiicluiles witli a congratulatory address to Israel on their iieoiiliar happiness and privilege in liaving Jehovah for Uicir (iod and protector, who rideth upon the heaven In thy help an evident allusion to the pillar of cloud and fire, wliich was both the guide and shelter of Israel. 38. the fountain of Jacob—the posterity of Israel shall dwell in a blessed and favoured land.
9; Numbers 21. 20). no Juan knoweth of liis sepulchre unto this day—This concealment seems to have been owing to a special and wise ari'angement of Providence, to prevent its being ranked among " holy places," and made the resort of superstitious pilgrims or idolatrous veneration, in after ages. 8. wept for Moses thli-ty days —seven days was the usual period of mourning, but for persons in liigh rank or otlichil eminence, it wjis extended to tliirty (Genesis 50. 3-10; Numbers 20. 29). 9. .Toshua was full of the spirit of wisdom—He was ai>i)ointed to a peculiar and extraordinary otiiee; he was not the successor of Moses, for lie was not a prophet or civil ruler, but tlie general or leader, called to head the people in tho war of invasion, and the subsequent allocation of the tribes. 10-1'i. there arose not a prophet since— In whatever light we view tliis extraordinary man, the eulogy proiiouneed in tliese inspired words will appear just. No llel)rcw proplict or ruler equalled hlin in character, oftl-
CHAPTER XXXIV.
cial dignity, as well as knowledge of God's will and opportunities of anuounciug It.
Ver. 1-12. Moses from Mount Neho Vikwetii tiik liANn. 1. nioses went up from the plains of nioab U2
Joshiia Succeedeth Moiee. JOSHUA I. II. Rahab Conceals the Two Spiet.
THE BOOK OF JOSHUA
Canaan. Their readiness to redeem their pledge, and the terms in which they answered the appeal of Joshua, displayed to great advantage their patriotic and pious feelings at so interesting a crisis, ye shall pass armed
CHAPTER I.
Ver. 1-18. The Lord appoints Joshua to succeed Moses. 1. Now alter the death of Moses—Joshua having been already appointed and designated leader of Israel (Numbers 27. 18-23), in all probability assumed the reins of government immediately " after the death of Jloses." tUe servant of the Lord—this was the official title of Moses, as invested with a special mission to make known the will of God; and It conferred great honour and authority, the Lord spake unto Joshua—probably durinfi; the period of public mourning, and either by a direct revelation to the mind of Joshua, or by means of Urim and Thunimim (Numbers 27. 21). This first communication gave a pledge that the Divine instructions which, according to the provisions of the theocracy, had been imparted to Moses, would be continued to the new leader, though God might not perhaps speak to him "mouth to moutli " (Numbers 12.8). Joshua—-The original name, Oshea (Numbers 13.8), which had been, according to Eastern usage, changed like those of Abram and Sarai (Genesis i. e., officered or marshalled under five leaders in the old and approved caravan order (see on Exodus 13. 18). all the miglity men of valour—The words are not to be interpreted strictly as meaning the whole, but only the flower or choice of the fighting men (see on ch. 4. 12, 13).
CHAPTER II.
Ver. 1-7. Rahab Receives and Conceals the Two Spies. 1. Joshua sent two men to spy secretly—Faith is manifested by an active, persevering use of means (James 2. 22); and accordingly Joshua, while confiding in the accomplishment of the Divine promise (ch. 1.3), adopted every precaution which a skilful general could think of to render his first attempt in the invasion of Canaan successful. Two spies were despatched to reconnoitre the country, particularly in the neighbourhood of Jericho; for in the prospect of investing that place, it was desirable to obtain full information as to its site, its approaches, the character and resotirces of its inhabitants. This mission required the strictest privacy, and it seems to have been studiously concealed from the knowledge of the Israelites themselves, lest any unfavourable or exaggerated report, publicly circulated, might have dispirited the people, as that of the spies did in the days of Moses. Jericho—Some derive this name from a word signifying "neivmoon," in reference to the crescent-like plain in which it stood, formed by an amphitheatre of hills; others from a word signifying "its scent," on account of the fragrance of the balsam and palm trees in which it was embosomed. Its site was long supposed to be represented by the small mud-walled hamlet Er-Riha; but recent researches have fixed on a spot about half an hour's journey westward, where large ruins exist, and about six or eight miles distant from the Jordan. It was for that age a strongly-fortified town, the key of the eastern pass through the deep ravine, now called Wady-Kelt, into the interior of Palestine, they came into an harlot's house—Many expositors, desirous of removing the stigma of this name from an ancestress of the Saviour (Matthew 1. 5), have called her a hostess or tavern-keeper. But scriptural usage (Leviticus 21.7-14; Deuteronomy 2''.
17. 5-lo) into Jehoshua or Joshua, i.e., God's salvation, was significant of the services he was to render, and typified those of a greater Saviour (Hebrews 1. 8i. Moses' minister i. c., his official attendant, who, from being constantly employed in important services, and early Initiated Into the principles of the government, would be well trained for undertaking the leadership of Israel.
)i-9. Wow therefore arise, go over this Jordan—Joshua's mission was that of a military leader. This passage records his call to begin the work, and the address contains a literal repetition of the promise made to Moses (Deuteronomy 11.24, 25 ; 31.6-8; 23). 3,4. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon have I given you—meaning, of course, not universal dominion, but onlj' the territory comprised within the boundaries hero specified (see on Deuteronomy 19.8,9). all the land of the Htttttes—These occupied the southern extreniilies, and were the dominant tribe, of Canaan. Their superior power and the extent of their dominions are attested by the mention of them under the name of Khita, on the Assyrian Inscriptions, and still more frei|uently on the Egyptian inscriptions of the 18th and I9th Dynasties. What life anil encouragement must have been imparted to .Joshua by the assurance that his people, who had been overwhelmed with fear of that gig.antic race, were to possess "all the land of the Hittites!" 5-9. There shnll not any be able to stand before tliee—Canaan was theirs by a Divine grant; and the renewed confirmation of that grant to Joshua, when about to lead the people Into it, intimated not only a certain but an easy conquest. It is remarkable, however, that his courage and hope of victory were made to depend (see on Deuteronomy
18; Judges 11.1; 1 Kings 3.16), the authority of tliu Septuagint, followed by the apostles (Hebrews 11.31; James
2. 2,5), and the immemorial style of Eastern khans, which are never kept by women, establish the propriety of the term employed in our version. Her house was probal)ly recommended to the spies by the convenience of its situation, without any knowledge of the character of the inmates. But a Divine influence directed them in the choice of that lodging-place. 2, 3. It was told to tlie Icing—Dy the sentinels who at such a time of threatened invasion would be posted on the eastern frontier, and whose duty required them to make a strict report to headquartnis of the arrival of all strangers. 4-0. Tl»e woman took the two men and hid tliem lit., him, i. e., each of tiicm In separate places, of course previous to the appearance of the royal messengers, and In anticipation of a speedy search after her guests. According to Eastern manners, which pay an almost superstitious respect to a woman's apartment, the roj'al messengers did not demand .admittance to search, but asked her to bring the foreigners out. C. site had brought them to the top of the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax— F'lax, with other vegetable productions, is at a certain season spread out on the flat roofs of Eastern houses to be dried
17. 10) on his firm and inflexible adherence to the law of God, not only that regarding the extirpation of the Canaanites, but the whole Divine code, 10-18. Then Joshua commanded the ot Hcerg of the people—These were the Sholerlm (see on Exodus 5.6; Denteronomy
20. 5). command the people, gayin;;, Prepare you victuals—not manna, which, though It still fell, would not keep; but corn, sheep, and articles of food procurable In the conquered countries, for within three clays ye •hall pnss over this Jordan—(i. e., the third day according to ITehreiv idiom)—the time allotted for getting ready ere the encampment in Abel-Shlttim broke up, and thej' removed to the desert bank of the river where no victuals could hp got. At the game time Joshua himself convened the two and a half tribes which had settled east of Jordan, to remind them of their engagement (Numbers 32.
1-42); to assist their brethren In the conquest of western
Covenant between Bahab and the Spies, JOSHUA III. The Jordan Divided.
and such a time would be absolutely necessary for so motley an assemblage of men, women, and children, with
In the sun; and, after lying awhile, if is piled up in numerous little stacks, which, from the luxuriant growth all their gear and cattle to make ready for going into an enemy's country. 2-4. the officers went through the host, and commaikded the people— The instructions given at this time and in this place were dit Terent from those described (ch. 1. 11). -ivhen ye see the ark, and of the flax, rise to a height of three or four feet. Behind some of these stacks Rahab concealed the spies, tlie time of sliiittiisg the gates—the gates of all Oriental cities are closed at sunset, after which there is no possibility either of admission or egress, tlie men went out— This was a palpable deception. But, as lying is a common vice among heathen people, Rahab was probably unconscious of its moral guilt, especially as she resorted tlie priests the Levites bearing It, &c.—The usual position of the ark, when at rest, was in the centre of the camp; and, daring a march, in the middle of the procession. On this occasion it was to occupy the van, and be borne not by the Kohathite Levites, but the priests, as on to it as a means for screening her guests; and she might deem herself bound to do it by the laws of Eastern hosall solemn and extraordinary occasions (cf. Numbers 4.
pitality, which make it a point of honour to preserve the
15; ch. 6. 6 ; 1 Kings 8. 3-6). then ye shall go after it, yet there shall toe a space between it and you—These instructions refer exclusively to the advance into the river. The distance which the people were to keep in the rear of the ark was nearly a mile ; had they crowded too near the ark, the view would have been intercepted, and this Intervening space, therefore, was ordered, that the chest containing the sacred symbols might be distinctly visible to all parts of the camp, and be recognized as their guide in the untrodden way. 5. Joshua said unto the people —rather " had said," for as he speaks of " to-morrow," the address must have been made previous to the day of crossing, and the sanctification was in all probability the same as Moses had commanded before the giving of the law, consisting of an outward cleansing (Exodus 19. 10-15) preparatory to that serious and devout state of mind with which so great a manifestation should be witnessed. 6. Joshua spake unto the priests—This order to the priests would be given privately, and Involving as it did an important change in the established order of march, it must be considered as announced In the name and by the authority of God. Moreover, as soon as the priests stepped into the waters of Jordan they were to stand still. The ark was to accomplish what had been done by the rod of Moses.
greatest enemy, if he has once eaten one's salt. Judged by the Divine law, her answer was a sinful expedient; but her infirmity being united with faith, she was graciously pardoned and her service accepted (James 2.2.5).
7. Tixe men mirsned after them the -way to Jordan unto the fords—That river is crossed at several wellknown fords. The first and second immediately below the sea of Galilee; the third and fourth immediately above and below the pilgrims' bathing-place, opposite
Jericho, as soon as tliey which piirsned after them were gone, tliey shut the gate—This precaution was to ensure tlie capture of the spies, should they have been lurking in the city.
8-21. The Covenant between Her and them. 8-13. She came up unto them to the roof and said—Rahab's dialogue is full of interest, as sliowiug the universal panic and consternation of the Canaanites on the one hand (ch.
24. 11; Deuteronomy 2. 25), and her strong convictions on the other, founded on a knowledge of the Divine promise; and the stupendous miracles that had opened the way of the Israelites to the confines of the promised land. She was convinced of the supremacy of Jehovah, and her earnest stipulations for the preservation of her relatives amid the jierils of the approaching invasion, attest the sincerity and strengtli of her faith. 14. The men answered, Our life for yours, If ye utter not this our
7, 8. The Lord encourageth Joshua. 7, 8. The Lord said to Josh\ia, This day will I magnify thee In tl»e sight of all Israel—Joshua had already received distinguished honours (Exodus 24. 13 ; Deuteronomy 31. 7). But a higher token of the Divine favour was uow to be publicly bestowed on him, and evidence given in the same unmistakable manner, that his mission and authority were from God as was of Moses (E.xodus 14. 31).
tonsiness— This was a solemn pledge — a virtual oath, though the name of God is not mentioned ; and the words " if ye utter not this our business," were added, not as a condition of their fidelity, but as necessary for her safety, which might l5e endangered if the private agreement was divulged. l!i Her lionse was on tlie wall—In many Oriental cities houses are built on tlie walls with overhanging windows; in others the town wall forms the back wall of the house, so that the window opens into the country. Rahali's was probably of tliis latter description, and tlie cord or mpo suthciently strong to bear the weight
Si-13. Joshua encour.'VGICTh the People. 9-13. Come hither, and hear the words of the Lord—It seems that the Israelites had no intimation how they were to cross the river till shortly before the event. The premonitory address of Joshua, taken in connection with the miraculous result exactly .as he had described It, would tend to increase and confirm their faith In the God of their fathers of a man. 1G-'41. She said—rather " she had said," for what follows must have been part of the previous conversation, get yoii to the mountain—A range of white limestone hills extends on the north, called Quarantania (now Jebel-karantu), rising to a height of from 1200 to 1500 as not .a dull, sensele.ss. Inanimate thing like the Idols of the nations, but a Being of life, power, and activity to defend them and work for them.
feet, and the sides of which are perforated with caves. Borne one peak adjoining, was familiarlj' known to the inhabitants .as "tlie mountain." The prudence and propriety of the advice to flee in that direction rather than to the ford, were made apparent by the sequel. 21. She hound the sem-let line in tlic window—Probably soon
14-17. The Waters of Joisdan are Divided. 1*. And it came to pass, when the people removed t^-oin their tents, «fcc.—To understand the scene described we must imagine the band of priests with the ark on their shoulders, standing on the depressed edge of the river, while the mass of the people were at a mile's distance. Suddenly the whole bed of the river was dried up ; a specafter tlu! d( ))ailun' of the spies. It was not formed, as Rom(V suppose, into network, as a lattice, but simply to hang down the wall. Its red colour made it conspicuous, and It was thus a sign and pledge of safety to Uahab's house, as the bloody mark on the lintels of the houses of the Israelites in Kgypt to that people.
tacle the more extraordinary that It took place In the time of harvrat, corresponding to our April or May when "the Jord.an overfloweth all its banks." The original words may be more properly rendered "fills all its banks," Its channel, snow-fed from Ijcbanon, Is at Its greatest height—brimful; a translation which gives the only true description of the state of Jordan In harvest as observed by modern travellers. The river about Jericho
CHAPTER HI.
Ver. 1-6. JosiiiTA oomks to Jordan. 1. Joshua rose early lu the morning i. c, on tlie (lay following that on which the Mjiles had returned with tlieir encouraging report, the camp was broken up In "Slilttim" (the acacia groves), and removed to the eastern bank of the Jordan. The duration of tlulr stay is Indicated (v. 2), being, according to JTel). reckoning, only one entire day, Including
Is, In ordinary appearance, about ,50 or GO yards In breadth. But as seen In harvest. It Is twice as broad ; and In ancient times, when the hills on the right and left were much more drenched with rain and snow than since the forests have disappeared, the river must, from a greater accession of water, have been broader still than at harvest-time In the present day. 10. the water* which cuine down tlie evening of arrival and tlie morning of the passage;