your fathers, so that they take heed, and do all that a 2 Kings 22:1 written in the book of the 1Seers.

your fathers, so that they take heed, and do all that a 2 Kings 22:1 written in the book of the 1Seers.

2 Chronicles 33:8 472

of Israel, will I put my Name forever. 8 Neither will I gmake the foot of Israel to remove anymore out of the land which I have appointed for your fathers, so that they take heed, and do all that I have commanded them, according to the Law and statutes and judgments by the 1hand of Moses. 9 So Manasseh made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err, and to do worse than the heathen, whom the Lord had destroyed before the children of Israel. 10 ¶ And the Lord spake to 1Manasseh and to his people, but they would not regard. 11 Wherefore the Lord brought upon them the captains of the host of the king of Assyria, which took Manasseh and put him in fetters, and bound him in chains, and carried him to Babel. 12 And when he was in tribulation, he prayed to the Lord his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, 13 And prayed unto him: and God was 1entreated of him, and heard his prayer, and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom: then Manasseh knew that the Lord was God. 14 Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the West side of 1Gihon in the valley, even at the entry of the fish gate, and compassed about 2Ophel, and raised it very high, and put captains of war in all the strong cities of Judah. 15 And he took away the strange gods and the image out of the house of the Lord, and all the altars that he had built in the mount of the house of the Lord, and in Jerusalem, and cast them out of the city. 16 Also he prepared the 1altar of the Lord, and sacrificed thereon peace offerings, and of thanks, and commanded Judah to serve the Lord God of Israel. 17 Nevertheless the people did sacrifice still in the high places, but unto the 1Lord their God. 18 ¶ Concerning the rest of the acts of Manasseh, and his 1prayer unto his God, and the words of the Seers, that spake to him in the Name of the Lord God of Israel, behold, they are written in the book of the Kings of Israel. 19 And his prayer and how God was entreated of

him, and all his sin, and his trespass, and the places wherein he built high places, and set groves and images (before he was humbled) behold, they are written in the book of the 1Seers. 20 So Manasseh slept with his fathers, and they buried him in his own 1house: and Amon his son reigned in his stead. 21 ¶Amon was two and twenty years old, when he began to reign, and reigned two years in Jerusalem. 22 But he did evil in the sight of the Lord, as did Manasseh his father: for Amon sacrificed to all the images, which Manasseh his father had made, and served them. 23 And he humbled not himself before the Lord, as Manasseh his father had humbled himself: but this Amon trespassed more and more. 24 And his servants hconspired against him, and slew him in his own house. 25 But the people of the land slew all them that had conspired against King Amon: and the people of the land made Josiah his son King in his stead. 34 1 Josiah destroyeth the idols. 8 And restoreth the Temple. 14 The book of the Law is found. 21 He sendeth to Huldah the Prophetess for counsel. 27 God heareth his prayer. 31 He maketh a covenant with God.

g 2 Sam. 7:10

h 2 Kings 21:23

chapter 34

a 2 Kings 22:1

1 Josiah awas eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem one and thirty years. 2 And he did uprightly in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the ways of 1David his father, and bowed neither to the right hand nor to the left. 3 And in the eighth year of his reign (when he was yet a 1child) he began to seek after the God of David his father: and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah, and Jerusalem from the high places, and the groves, and the carved images, and molten images. 4 And they brake down 1in his sight the altars of Baal, and he caused to cut down the images that were on high upon them: he brake also the groves, and the carved images and the molten images, and stamped them to powder, and strowed it upon the graves of them that had sacrificed unto them. 5 Also he burnt the 1bones of the Priests upon

33:8 1 By the charge given to Moses. 33:10 1 Meaning by his Prophets, but their hearts were not touched to believe and repent, without the which the preaching of the word taketh no place. 33:13 1 Thus affliction giveth understanding: for he that hated God in his prosperity, now in his misery he seeketh unto him. 33:14 1 Read 2 Chron. 32:30. 2 Read 2 Chron. 27:3. 33:16 1 Which Solomon had caused to be made. 33:17 1 Thus by ignorance they were deceived, thinking it nothing to keep the altars, so that they worshipped God: but it is idolatry to worship God any otherwise than he hath appointed. 33:18 1 Which albeit that it is not contained in the Hebrew, yet

because it is here mentioned and is written in the Greek, we have placed it in the end of this book. 33:19 1 Or, Hozai. 33:20 1 Because he had so horribly offended against the Lord, they did not bury him in the sepulchers of the Kings, but in the garden of the King's house. 34:2 1 He followed David in all points that he followed the Lord. 34:3 1 When he was but sixteen years old he showed himself zeal­ ous of God's glory, and at twenty years old he abolished idolatry, and restored the true religion. 34:4 1 Which showeth that he would see the reformation with his own eyes. 34:5 1 Read 2 Kings 23:16.

473 2 chronicles 34:26

their altars, and purged Judah and Jerusalem. 6 And in the cities of Manasseh, and Ephraim, and Simeon, even unto Naphtali, with their mauls they brake all round about. 7 And when he had 1destroyed the altars, and the groves, and had broken and stamped to powder the images, and had cut down all the idols throughout all the land of Israel, he returned to Jerusalem. 8 ¶ bThen in the eighteenth year of his reign, when he had purged the land and the temple, he sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah and Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Joah the son of Joahaz the Recorder to repair the house of the Lord his God. 9 And when they came to Hilkiah the high Priest, they delivered the money that was brought into the house of God, which the Levites that kept the door, had gathered at the hand of Manasseh, and Ephraim, and of all the residue of Israel, and of all Judah and Benjamin, and 1of the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 10 And they put it in the hands of 1them that should do the work, and had the oversight in the house of the Lord: and they gave it to the workmen that wrought in the house of the Lord to repair and amend the house. 11 Even to the workmen and to the builders gave they it to buy hewed stone and timber for couples, and for beams of the 1houses, which the kings of Judah had destroyed. 12 And the men did the work 1faithfully, and the overseers of them were Jahath and Obadiah the Levites, of the children of Merari, and Zechariah, and Meshullam, of the children of the Kohathites to set it forward: and of the Levites all that could skill of instruments of music. 13 And they were over the bearers of burdens, and them that set forward all the workmen in every work: and of the Levites were scribes, and officers and porters. 14 ¶ And when they brought out the money that was brought into the house of the Lord, Hilkiah the Priest found the 1book of the Law of the Lord given by the hand of Moses. 15 Therefore Hilkiah answered and said to Shaphan

the chancellor, I have found the book of the Law in the house of the Lord: and Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan. 16 And Shaphan carried the book to 1the King, and brought the King word again, saying, All that is committed to the hand of thy servants, that do they. 17 For they have gathered the money that was found in the house of the Lord, and have delivered it into the hands of the overseers, and to the hands of the workmen. 18 Also Shaphan the chancellor declared to the King, saying, Hilkiah the Priest hath given me a book, and Shaphan read it before the King. 19 And when the King had heard the words of the Law, he 1tare his clothes, 20 And the King commanded Hilkiah and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Abdon the son of Micah, and Shaphan the chancellor, and Asaiah the king's servant, saying, 21 Go and inquire of the Lord for me, and for the rest in Israel and Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the Lord that is fallen upon us, because our 1fathers have not kept the word of the Lord, to do after all that is written in this book. 22 Then Hilkiah and they that the king had appointed went to Huldah the prophetess the wife of Shallum, the son of 1Tokhath, the son of 2Hasrah keeper of the 3wardrobe (and she dwelt in Jerusalem within the 4college) and they communed hereof with her. 23 And she answered them, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Tell ye 1the man that sent you to me, 24 Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the curses, that are written in the book which they have read before the King of Judah: 25 Because they have forsaken me, and burnt incense unto other gods, to anger me with all the works of their 1hands, therefore shall my wrath fall upon this place, and shall not be quenched. 26 But to the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, so shall ye say unto him, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, The words which thou

b 2 Kings 33:5

34:7 1 This great zeal of this godly King the holy Ghost setteth forth as an example and pattern to other kings and rulers, to teach them what God requireth of them. 34:9 1 Or, they returned to Jerusalem. 34:10 1 Meaning Shaphan, etc. 34:11 1 For there were many portions and pieces annexed to the Temple. 34:12 1 Meaning, that they were in such credit for their fidelity, that they made none accounts of that which they received, 2 Kings 22:7, 9. 34:14 1 Read 2 Kings 22:8. 34:16 1 For the king was commanded to have continually a copy of this book, and to read therein day and night, Deut. 17:18.

34:19 1 For sorrow that the word of God had been so long sup­ pressed and the people kept in ignorance, considering also the curses contained therein against the transgressors. 34:21 1 Thus the godly do not only lament their own sins, but also that their fathers and predecessors have offended God. 34:22 1 Or, Tiknah. 2 Or, Harhas. 3 Meaning, either of the Priest's apparel, or of the King's. 4 Read hereof, 2 Kings 22:15. 34:23 1 That is, to the King. 34:25 1 This she speaketh in contempt of the idolaters, who contrary to reason and nature make that a god, which they have made and framed with their own hands.

2 Chronicles 34:27 474

hast heard, shall come to pass. 27 But because thine heart did 1melt, and thou didst humble thyself before God, when thou heardest his words against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, and humbledst thyself before me, and tearest thy clothes, and weptest before me, I have also heard it, saith the Lord. 28 Behold, I will gather thee to thy fathers, and thou shalt be put in thy grave in peace, and thine eyes shall not see all the evil, which I will bring upon this 1place and upon the inhabitants of the same. Thus they brought the King word again. 29 ¶ Then the King sent and gathered all the Elders of Judah and Jerusalem. 30 And the King went up into the house of the Lord, and all the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the Priests and the Levites, and all the people from the greatest to the 1smallest, and he read in their ears all the words of the book of the Covenant that was found in the house of the Lord. 31 And the King stood by his pillar, and made a covenant before the Lord, to walk after the Lord, and to keep his commandments, and his testimonies, and his statutes with all his heart, and with all his soul, and that he would accomplish the words of the Covenant written in the same book. 32 And he caused all that were found in Jerusalem, and Benjamin to stand to it: and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did according to the Covenant of God, even the God of their fathers. 33 So Josiah took away all the abominations out of all the countries that pertained to the children of Israel, and compelled all 1that were found in Israel, to serve the Lord their God: so all his days they turned not back from the Lord God of their fathers. 35 1 Josiah keepeth the Passover. 2 He setteth forth God's service. 20 He fighteth against the king of Egypt, and dieth. 24 The people bewail him.

the fourteenth day of the first month. 2 And he appointed the Priests to their charges, and encouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord, 3 And he said unto the Levites that 1taught all Israel and were sanctified unto the Lord, Put the holy Ark in the house which Solomon the son of David King of Israel did build: it shall be no more a 2burden upon your shoulders: serve now the Lord your God, and his people Israel, 4 And prepare yourselves by the houses of your fathers according to your courses, as bDavid the king of Israel hath written, and according to the writing of Solomon his son, 5 And stand in the Sanctuary according to the division of the families of your brethren 1the children of the people, and after the division of the family of the Levites: 6 So kill the Passover, and sanctify yourselves, and 1prepare your brethren that they may do according to the word of the Lord by the hand of Moses. 7 Josiah also gave to the 1people sheep, lambs and kids, all for the Passover, even to all that were present, to the number of thirty thousand, and three thousand bullocks: these were of the king's substance. 8 And his princes offered willingly unto the people, to the Priests and to the Levites: Hilkiah, and Zechariah, and Jehiel, rulers of the house of God gave unto the Priests for the Passover, even two thousand and six hundred sheep, and three hundred bullocks. 9 1Conaniah also and Shemaiah and Nethanel his brethren, and Hashabiah and Jeiel, and Jozabad, chief of the Levites gave unto the Levites for the Passover, five thousand sheep, and five hundred bullocks. 10 Thus the service was prepared, and the Priests stood in their places, also the Levites in their orders, according to the king's commandment: 11 And they slew the Passover, and the Priests 1sprinkled the blood with their hands, and the Levites flayed them.

chapter 35

a 2 Kings 23:21

b 1 Chron.

13:24-26

1 Moreover, aJosiah kept a Passover unto the Lord in Jerusalem, and they slew the 1Passover in

34:27 1 This declareth what is the end of God's threatenings, to call his to repentance, and to assure the unrepentant of their destruction. 34:28 1 It may appear that very few were touched with true repentance, seeing that God spared them for a time only for the king's sake. 34:30 1 Forasmuch as neither young nor old could be exempted from the curses contained therein, if they did transgress, he knew it pertained to all, and was his duty to see it read to all sorts, that every­ one might learn to avoid those punishments by serving God aright. 34:33 1 Because he had charge over all, and must answer for every­ one that perished: he thought it his duty to see that all should make profession to receive the word of God. 35:1 1 The Scripture useth in sundry places to call the lamb the Pass­ over, which was but the sign of the Passover, because in all sacra­

ments the signs have the names of the things which are signified. 35:3 1 So that the Levite's charge was not only to minister in the Temple, but also to instruct the people in the word of God. 2 As it was before the Temple was built: therefore your office only is now to teach the people, and to praise God. 35:5 1 Or, the people. 35:6 1 Exhort everyone to examine themselves, that they be not unmeet to eat of the Passover. 35:7 1 Hebrew, sons of the people. 35:9 1 So that everyone and of all sorts gave of that they had, a lib­ eral portion to the service of God. 35:11 1 Meaning, of the Lamb, which was called the Passover: for only the Priests might sprinkle, and in necessity the Levites might kill the sacrifice.

475 2 chronicles 36:5

22 But Josiah would not turn his face from him, but 1changed his apparel to fight with him, and hearkened not unto the words of Necho, which were of the mouth of God, but came to fight in the valley of Megiddo. 23 And the shooters shot at king Josiah: then the king said to his servants, Carry me away, for I am very sick. 24 So his servants took him out of that chariot, and put him in the second chariot which he had, and when they had brought him to Jerusalem, he died, and was buried in the sepulchers of his fathers: and all Judah and Jerusalem 1mourned for Josiah. 25 And Jeremiah lamented Josiah, and all singing men and singing women mourned for Josiah in their lamentations to this day, and made the same for an ordinance unto Israel: and behold, they be written in the 1Lamentations. 26 Concerning the rest of the acts of Josiah, and his goodness, doing as it was written in the Law of the Lord, 27 And his deeds first and last, behold, they are written in the book of the Kings of Israel, and Judah. 36 After Josiah reigneth Jehoahaz. 4 After Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim. 8 After him Jehoiachin. 11 After him Zedekiah. 14, 17 In whose time all the people were carried away to Babel for contemning the Admonition of the Prophets, 22 and were restored again the seventieth year after by king Cyrus.

12 And they took away from the 1burnt offering to give it according to the divisions of the families of the children of the people, to offer unto the Lord, as it is written in the book of Moses, and so of the bullocks. 13 And cthey roasted the Passover with fire, according to the custom, but the sanctified things they sod in pots, pans, and cauldrons, and distributed them quickly to all the people. 14 Afterward also they prepared for themselves and for the Priests: for the Priests the sons of Aaron were occupied in offering of burnt offerings, and the fat until night: therefore the Levites prepared for themselves, and for the Priests the sons of Aaron. 15 And the singers the sons of Asaph stood in their standing daccording to the commandment of David, and Asaph, and Heman, and Jeduthun the king's 1Seer: and the porters at every gate, who might not depart from their service: therefore their brethren the Levites prepared for them. 16 So all the service of the Lord was prepared the same day to keep the Passover, and to offer burnt offerings upon the altar of the Lord, according to the commandment of King Josiah. 17 And the children of Israel that were present, kept the Passover the same time, and the feast of the unleavened bread seven days. 18 And there was no Passover kept like that in Israel, from the days of Samuel the Prophet: neither did all the kings of Israel keep such a Passover as Josiah kept, and the Priests and the Levites, and all Judah, and Israel that were 1present, and the inhabi­ tants of Jerusalem. 19 This Passover was kept in 1the eighteenth year of the reign of Josiah. 20 ¶ eAfter all this, when Josiah had prepared the Temple Necho king of Egypt came up to fight against 1Carchemish by 2Perath and Josiah went out against him. 21 But he sent messengers to him, saying, What have I to do with thee, thou king of Judah? I come not against thee this day, but against the house 1of mine enemy, and God commanded me to make haste: leave off to come against God, which is with me, lest he destroy thee.

c Exod. 12:8

d 1 Chron. 25:1

e 2 Kings 23:29

chapter 36

a 2 Kings 23:30

1 Then athe people of the land took Jehoahaz the son of Josiah, and made him King in his father's stead in Jerusalem. 2 Jehoahaz was three and twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three 1months in Jerusalem. 3 And the king of Egypt took him away at Jerusalem, and condemned the land in an 1hundred talents of silver, and a talent of gold. 4 ¶ And the king of Egypt made Eliakim his brother king over Judah and Jerusalem, and turned his name to Jehoiakim: and Necho took Jehoahaz his brother, and carried him to Egypt. 5 Jehoiakim was five and twenty years old when

35:12 1 They reserved for the people that which was not expedient to be offered, that every man might offer peace offerings, and so have his portion. 35:15 1 Meaning hereby his Prophet, because he appointed the Psalms and prophecies which were to be sung. 35:18 1 Hebrew, found. 35:19 1 Which was in his six and twentieth year of his age. 35:20 1 Which was a city of the Assyrians, and Josiah fearing lest he passing through Judah, would have taken his kingdom, made war against him, and consulted not with the Lord. 2 Or, Euphrates. 35:21 1 Hebrew, of my battle.

35:22 1 That is, armed himself, or disguised himself, because he might not be known. 35:24 1 The people so much lamented the loss of this good king, that after when there was any great lamentation this was spoken of as a proverb, read Zech. 12:11. 35:25 1 Which some think Jeremiah made, wherein he lamenteth the state of the Church after this king's death. 36:2 1 For three months after the death of Josiah, came Necho to Jerusalem, and so the plagues began, which Huldah and the Proph­ etess forewarned should come upon Jerusalem. 36:3 1 To pay this as a yearly tribute.

2 Chronicles 36:6 476

he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem, and did 1evil in the sight of the Lord his God. 6 Against him came up Nebuchadnezzar king of Babel, and bound him with chains to carry him to Babel. 7 Nebuchadnezzar also bcarried of the vessels of the house of the Lord to Babel, and put them in his temple at Babel. 8 Concerning the rest of the acts of Jehoiakim, and his abominations which he did, and 1that which was found upon him, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead. 9 ¶ Jehoiachin was 1eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months and ten days in Jerusalem, and did evil in the sight of the Lord. 10 And when the year was out, king Nebuchadnezzar sent and brought him to Babel, with the precious vessels of the house of the Lord, and he made Zedekiah his 1brother king over Judah and Jerusalem. 11 Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he began to reign, and reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. 12 cAnd he did evil in the sight of the Lord his God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the Prophet at the commandment of the Lord. 13 But he rebelled moreover against Nebuchadnezzar, which had caused him to swear by God: and he hardened his neck and made his heart obstinate, that he might not return to the Lord God of Israel. 14 All the chief of the Priests also and of the people trespassed wonderfully, according to all the abominations of the heathen, and polluted the houses of the Lord which he had sanctified in Jerusalem. 15 Therefore the Lord God of their fathers sent to them 1by his messengers, 2rising early and sending:

for he had compassion on his people, and on his habitation. 16 But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his Prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, and till there was no 1remedy. 17 For he brought upon them the king of the Chaldeans, who slew their young men with the sword 1in the house of their Sanctuary, and spared neither young man nor virgin, ancient, nor aged. God 2gave all into his hand, 18 And all the vessels of the house of God great and small, and the treasures of the house of the Lord, and the treasures of the king, and of his princes: all these carried he to Babel. 19 And they burnt the house of God, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem, and burnt all the palaces thereof with fire, and all the precious vessels thereof, to destroy all. 20 And they that were left by the sword, carried he away to Babel, and they were servants to him, and to his sons, until the kingdom of the 1Persians had rule, 21 To fulfill the word of the Lord by the 1mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had her fill of her Sabbaths: for all the days that she lay desolate, she kept Sabbath, to fulfill seventy years. 22 ¶ dBut in the 1first year of Cyrus king of Persia (when the word of the Lord, spoken by the mouth of Jeremiah, was finished) the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, and he made a proclamation through all his kingdom, and also by writing, saying, 23 Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the Lord God of heaven given me, and hath 1commanded me to build him an house in Jerusalem, that is in Judah. Who is among you of all his people, with whom the Lord his God is? let him go up.

b 2 Kings 24:13

c 1 Kings

24:17,19 Jer. 52:2

d Jer. 25:13

Jer. 29:10

36:5 1 Because he and the people turned not to God by his first plague, he brought a new upon him, and at length rooted them out. 36:8 1 He meaneth superstitious marks which were found upon his body, when he was dead, which thing declared how deeply idolatry was rooted in his heart, seeing he bare the marks in his flesh. 36:9 1 That is, he began his reign at eight years old, and reigned ten years when his father was alive, and after his father's death, which was the eighteenth year of his age, he reigned alone three months and ten days. 36:10 1 Or, uncle. 36:15 1 Hebrew, by the hand of his. 2 By this phrase the Scripture meaneth, oftentimes, and diligently, as Jer. 11:7 and 25:3 and 26:5 and 32:33. 36:16 1 Till God could no longer suffer their sins, but must needs punish them. 36:17 1 Whither they fled, thinking to have been saved for the holi­

ness thereof. 2 Which is not because God approveth him, which yet is the minis­ ter of his justice, but because God would by his just judgment punish this people: for this king was led with ambition and vain glory, where­ unto were joined fury and cruelty: therefore his work was condem­ nable, notwithstanding it was just and holy on God's part, who used this wicked instrument to declare his justice. 36:20 1 When Cyrus King of Persia had made the Babylonians subject. 36:21 1 Who threatened the vengeance of God and seventy years captivity, which he calleth the Sabbaths or rest of the land, Jer. 25:11. 36:22 1 In the first year that he reigned over the Chaldeans, Ezra 1:1. 36:23 1 God had so forewarned by his Prophet above an hundred years before Cyrus was born, Isa. 44:28, that Jerusalem and the Tem­ ple should be built again by Cyrus his anointed: so called, because God used his service for a time to deliver his Church.

E z r a

1 1 Cyrus sendeth again the people that was in captivity, 8 and restoreth them their holy vessels.

them unto 1Sheshbazzar the Prince of Judah. 9 And this is the number of them, thirty basins of gold, a thousand basins of silver, nine and twenty 1knives, 10 Thirty bowls of gold, and of silver bowls of the second sort, four hundred and ten, and of other vessels, a thousand. 11 All the vessels of gold and silver were five thousand and four hundred. Sheshbazzar brought up all 1with them of the captivity that came up from Babel to Jerusalem. 2 The number of them that returned from the captivity.

chapter 1

a 2 Chron. 3:22

Jer. 25:12 Jer. 29:10

1 Now ain 1the first year of Cyrus King of Persia (that the word of the Lord, spoken by the 2mouth of Jeremiah, might be accomplished) the Lord stirred up the 3spirit of Cyrus King of Persia, and he made a proclamation through all his kingdom, and also by writing, saying, 2 Thus saith Cyrus King of Persia, The Lord God of heaven hath given me 1all the kingdoms of the earth, and he hath commanded me to build him an house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. 3 Who is he among you of all his people with whom his God is? let him go up to Jerusalem which is in Judah, and build the house of the Lord God of Israel: he is the God, which is in Jerusalem. 4 And everyone that remaineth in any place (where he sojourneth) 1let the men of his place relieve him with silver and with gold, and with substance, and with cattle, 2and with a willing offering, for the house of God that is in Jerusalem. 5 Then the chief fathers of Judah and Benjamin, and the Priests and the Levites rose up, with all them whose spirit God had raised to go up, to build the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem. 6 And all 1they that were about them, strengthened their hands with vessels of silver, with gold, with substance and with cattle, and with precious things, besides all that was willingly offered. 7 Also the king Cyrus brought forth the vessels of the house of the Lord, bwhich Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of Jerusalem, and had put them in the house of his god. 8 Even them did Cyrus king of Persia bring forth by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, and counted

b 2 Kings 25:13

2 Chron. 36:7 Jer. 27:19,20

Dan. 1:2

chapter 2

a Neh. 7:6

1 These aalso are the sons 1of the province that went up out of the captivity (whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babel had carried away unto Babel) and returned to Jerusalem, and to Judah, everyone unto his city, 2 Which came up with 1Zerubbabel, to wit, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, 2Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, Baanah. The number of the men 3of the people of Israel was, 3 The sons of Parosh, two thousand, an hundred seventy and two: 4 The sons of Shephatiah, three hundred, seventy and two: 5 The sons of Arah, seven hundred, and seventy and five: 6 The sons of 1Pahath-Moab, of the sons of Jeshua, and Joab, two thousand, eight hundred and twelve: 7 The sons of Elam, a thousand, two hundred and four and fifty: 8 The sons of Zattu, nine hundred and five and forty:

1:1 1 After that he and Darius had won Babylon. 2 Who promised them deliverance after that seventy years were past, Jer. 25:12. 3 That is, moved him, and gave him heart. 1:2 1 For he was chief Monarch, and had many nations under his dominion, which this heathen king confesseth to have received of the living God. 1:4 1 If any through poverty were not able to return, the king's com­ mission was that he should be furnished with necessaries. 2 Which they themselves should send toward the reparation of the Temple. 1:6 1 The Babylonians and Chaldeans gave them these presents: thus rather than the children of God should want for their necessities,

he would stir up the heart of the very infidels to help them. 1:8 1 So the Chaldeans called Zerubbabel who was the chief gover­ nor, so that the preeminence still remained in the house of David. 1:9 1 Which served to kill the beasts that were offered in sacrifice. 1:11 1 With the Jews that had been kept captives in Babylon. 2:1 1 Meaning, Judea, which was a province, that is, a country which was in subjection. 2:2 1 Zerubbabel was chief captain, and Jeshua the high Priest: but Nehemiah a man of great authority went not now, but came after 64 years. 2 This was not that Mordecai which was Esther's kinsman. 3 Meaning, of the common people. 2:6 1 Or, of the Duke of Moab.

Ezra 2:9 478

37 The sons of Immer, a thousand and two and fifty: 38 The sons of Pashur, a thousand, two hundred and seven and forty: 39 The sons of Harim, a thousand and seventeen. 40 ¶ The Levites: the sons of Jeshua, and Kadmiel of the sons of Hodaviah, seventy and four. 41 ¶ The Singers: the sons of Asaph, an hundred and eight and twenty. 42 ¶ The sons of the porters: the sons of Shallum, the sons of Ater, the sons of Talmon, the sons of Akkub, the sons of Hatita, the sons of Shobai: all were an hundred and nine and thirty. 43 ¶ The 1Nethinim: the sons of Ziha, the sons of Hasupha, the sons of Tabbaoth, 44 The sons of Keros, the sons of Siaha, the sons of Padon, 45 The sons of Lebanah, the sons of Hagabah, the sons of Akkub, 46 The sons of Hagab, the sons of Shamlai, the sons of Hanan, 47 The sons of Giddel, the sons of Gahar, the sons of Reaiah, 48 The sons of Rezin, the sons of Nekoda, the sons of Gazzam, 49 The sons of Uzza, the sons of Paseah, the sons of Besai, 50 The sons of Asnah, the sons of Meunim, the sons of Nephusim, 51 The sons of Bakbuk, the sons of Hakupha, the sons of Harhur, 52 The sons of Bazluth, the sons of Mehida, the sons of Harsha, 53 The sons of Barkos, the sons of Sisera, the sons of Thamah, 54 The sons of Neziah, the sons of Hatipha, 55 The sons of Solomon's 1servants: the sons of Sotai, the sons of Sophereth, the sons of Peruda, 56 The sons of Jaala, the sons of Darkon, the sons of Giddel, 57 The sons of Shephatiah, the sons of Hattil, the sons of Pochereth Hazzebaim, the sons of Ami. 58 All the Nethinim, and the sons of Solomon's servants were three hundred ninety and two. 59 ¶ And these went up from Tel Melah, and from Tel Harsha, Cherub, Addan, and Immer, but they could not discern their father's house and their seed, whether they were of Israel. 60 The sons of Delaiah, the sons of Tobiah, the

9 The sons of Zaccai, seven hundred and threescore: 10 The sons of Bani, six hundred and two and forty: 11 The sons of Bebai, six hundred, and three and twenty: 12 The sons of Azgad, a thousand, two hundred and two and twenty: 13 The sons of Adonikam, six hundred, three score and six: 14 The sons of Bigvai, two thousand, and six and fifty: 15 The sons of Adin, four hundred and four and fifty: 16 The sons of Ater of 1Hezekiah, ninety and eight: 17 The sons of Bezai, three hundred and three and twenty: 18 The sons of Jorah, an hundred and twelve: 19 The sons of Hashum, two hundred and three and twenty: 20 The sons of Gibbar, ninety and five: 21 1The sons of Bethlehem, an hundred and three and twenty: 22 The men of Netophah, six and fifty: 23 The men of Anothoth, an hundred and eight and twenty: 24 The sons of Azmaveth, two and forty: 25 The sons of Kirjath Arim, of Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred and three and forty: 26 The sons of Ramah and Geba, six hundred and one and twenty: 27 The men of Michmas, an hundred and two and twenty: 28 The sons of Bethel, and Ai, two hundred and three and twenty: 29 The sons of Nebo, two and fifty: 30 The sons of Magbish, an hundred and six and fifty: 31 The sons of the other Elam, a thousand, and two hundred and four and fifty: 32 The sons of Harim, three hundred and twenty: 33 The sons of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, seven hundred and five and twenty: 34 The sons of Jericho, three hundred and five and forty: 35 The sons of Senaah, three thousand six hundred and thirty: 36 The 1Priests: of the sons of Jedaiah of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred seventy and three:

2:16 1 Which were of the posterity of Hezekiah. 2:21 1 That is, inhabitants, for so this word (some) signifieth when it is joined with the names of places. 2:36 1 Before he hath declared the two tribes of Judah and Benjamin, and now cometh to the tribe of Levi, and beginneth at the Priests.

2:43 1 So called, because they were given to the Temple, to cut wood and bear water for the use of the sacrifices, and came of the Gibeonites, which were appointed to this use by Joshua, Josh. 9:23. 2:55 1 Which came of them that Solomon had appointed for the work of the Temple.

479 ezra 3:11

sons of Nekoda, six hundred and two and fifty. 61 And of the sons of the Priests, the sons of Habaiah, the sons of Koz, the sons of 1Barzillai: which took of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite to wife, and was called after their name. 62 These sought their writing of the genealogies, but they were not found: therefore were they put from the Priesthood. 63 And 1Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy thing, till there rose up a Priest with 2Urim and Thummim. 64 The whole Congregation together was two and forty thousand, three hundred and threescore, 65 Beside their servants and their maids: of whom were seven thousand, three hundred and seven and thirty: and among them were two hundred singing men and singing women. 66 Their horses were seven hundred, and six and thirty: their mules, two hundred, and five and forty: 67 Their camels four hundred, and five and thirty: their asses, six thousand, seven hundred and twenty. 68 And certain of the chief fathers, when they came to the house of the Lord, which was in Jerusalem, they offered willingly for the house of God, to set it up upon his foundation. 69 They gave after their ability unto the treasure of the work, even one and threescore thousand 1drams of gold, and five thousand 2pieces of silver, and an hundred Priests' garments. 70 So the Priests and the Levites, and a certain of the people, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinim dwelt in their cities, and all Israel in their cities. 3 2 They build the Altar of God. 6 They offer to the Lord. 7 They prepare for the Temple, 11 And sing unto the Lord.

the God of Israel to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the Law of Moses the man of God, 3 And they set the Altar upon 1his bases (for fear was among them, because of the people of those countries) therefore they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the Lord, even burnt offerings in the morning, and at even. 4 They kept also the feast of the Tabernacles, as it is written, and they burnt offering adaily, by number according to the custom day by day, 5 And afterward 1the continual burnt offering, both in the new months and in all the feast days that were consecrated unto the Lord, and in all the oblations willingly offered unto the Lord. 6 From the first day of the seventh month began they to offer burnt offerings unto the Lord: but the foundation of the Temple of the Lord was not laid. 7 They gave money also unto the masons, and to the workmen, and meat and drink, and oil unto them of Zidon and of Tyre, to bring them cedar wood from Lebanon to the sea unto 1Japho, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia. 8 ¶ And in the second year of their coming unto the house of God in Jerusalem, in the 1second month began Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and the remnant of their brethren the Priests, and the Levites, and all they that were come out of the captivity unto Jerusalem, and appointed the Levites from twenty years old and above, to set forward the work of the house of the Lord. 9 And Jeshua 1stood with his sons, and his brethren, and Kadmiel with his sons, and the sons of Judah together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God, and the sons of Henadad with their sons, and their brethren the Levites. 10 And when the builders laid the foundation of the Temple of the Lord, they appointed the Priests in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals, to praise the Lord, bafter the ordinance of David king of Israel. 11 Thus they sang when they gave praise, and when they gave thanks unto the Lord, For he is good, for his mercy endureth forever toward Israel.

chapter 3

a Exod. 23:16

b 1 Chron. 16:7,8

1 And when the 1seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in their cities, the people assembled themselves as one man unto Jerusalem. 2 Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the Priests, and Zerubbabel the 1son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and built the Altar of

2:61 1 Of him is made mention, 2 Sam. 17:27 and 19:31, and because the Priest's office was had in contempt, these would have changed their estate by their name, and so by God's just judgment lost both the estimation of the world and the dignity of their office. 2:63 1 This is a Chaldean name, and signifieth him that hath author­ ity over others. 2 Read Exod. 28:30. 2:69 1 Which mount to of our money, 24,826 pounds, 13 shillings and 4 pence, esteeming the French crown at 6 shillings and 4 pence for the dram is the eighth part of an ounce, and the ounce the eighth part of a mark. 2 Which are called, mina, and contain a piece two marks: so 50,000 minas make 55,000 franks, which mount to of our money 69,666

pounds, 13 shillings 4 pence so that the whole sum was 94,493 pounds, 6 shillings, 8 pence. 3:1 1 Called Tishri which answereth to part of September and part of October. 3:2 1 Meaning, nephew: for he was the son of Pedaiah, read 1 Chron. 3:19. 3:3 1 In the place where Solomon had placed it. 3:5 1 That is, after the feast of Tabernacles. 3:7 1 Or, Joppa. 3:8 1 Which month contained part of April and part of May: for in the mean season they had provided for things necessary for the work. 3:9 1 They gave them exhortations, and encouraged every man for­ ward in the work.

Ezra 3:12 480

And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. 12 Many also of the Priests and the Levites and the chief of the fathers, ancient men which had seen the first house, (when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes) 1wept with a loud voice, and many shouted aloud for joy, 13 So that the people could not discern the sound of the shout for joy, from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud cry, and the noise was heard far off. 4 2 The building of the Temple is hindered, and how, 11 Letters to Artaxerxes, and the answer.

thing declared was in the language of the Aramites. 8 Rehum the 1chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king, in this sort. 9 Then wrote Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions 1Dinai, and Apharsathcai, Tarpelai, Persia, Archevai, Bablai, Shushanchai, Dehave, Elamai, 10 And the rest of the people whom the great and noble 1Osnapper brought over, and set in the cities of Samaria, and other that are beyond the 2River and 3Cheeneth. 11 ¶ This is the copy of the letter that they sent unto King Artaxerxes, THY SERVANTS the men beyond the River and Cheeneth, salute thee. 12 Be it known unto the King that the Jews, which came up from thee to us, are come unto Jerusalem (a city rebellious and wicked) and build, and lay the foundations of the walls, and have joined the foundations. 13 Be it known now unto the king, that if this city be built, and the foundations of the walls laid, they will not give toll, tribute, nor 1custom: so shalt thou hinder the king's tribute. 14 Now therefore because 1we have been brought up in the King's palace, it was not meet for us to see the King's dishonor: for this cause have we sent and certified the King, 15 That one may search in the book of the Chronicles of thy fathers, and thou shalt find in the book of the Chronicles, and perceive that this city is rebellious and noisome unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition of old time, for the which cause this city was destroyed. 16 We certify the king therefore, that if this city be built, and the foundation of the walls laid, by this means the portion beyond the River shall not be thine. 17 ¶ The King sent an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions that dwelt in Samaria, and unto the other beyond the River, 1Shelam and 2Cheeth.

1 But 1the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard, that the children of the captivity built the Temple unto the Lord God of Israel. 2 And they came to Zerubbabel, and to the chief fathers, and said unto them, We will build with you: for we seek the Lord your God as ye do, and we have sacrificed unto him since the time of Esarhaddon king of Assyria, which brought us up hither. 3 Then Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and the rest of the chief fathers of Israel said unto them, It is not for you, but for us to build the house unto our God: 1for we ourselves together will build it unto the Lord God of Israel, as king Cyrus the king of Persia hath commanded us. 4 Wherefore the people of the land 1discouraged the people of Judah, and troubled them in building. 5 And they 1hired counselors against them, to hinder their devise all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia. 6 And in the reign of 1Ahasuerus (in the beginning of his reign) wrote they an accusation against the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem. 7 And in the days of 1Artachshashta, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions wrote when it was peace, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia, and the writing of the letter was the Aramites writing, and the

3:12 1 Because they saw that it was nothing so glorious as that Temple, which Solomon had built, notwithstanding Aggeus com­ forteth them, and prophesieth that it shall be more beautiful than the first: meaning the spiritual Temple, which are the members of Christ's body. 4:1 1 Meaning, the inhabitants of Samaria, whom the king of Assyria had placed in the stead of the ten tribes, 2 Kings 17:24 and 19:37. These professed God, but worshipped idols also, and therefore were the greatest enemies to the true servants of God. 4:3 1 For they perceived what their pretence was, to wit, to erect idolatry instead of true religion. 4:4 1 Hebrew, made their hands weak. 4:5 1 They bribed the governors under the king to hinder their work: Thus they that halt, cannot abide that God should be purely served. 4:6 1 He was also called Artaxerxes, which is a Persian name, some

think it was Cambises Cyrus' son, or Darius, as verse 5. 4:7 1 Called Artaxerxes, which signifieth in the Persian tongue, an excellent warrior. 4:8 1 Or, counselor. 4:9 1 These were certain people which the Assyrians placed in Samaria instead of the ten tribes. 4:10 1 Some think it was Sennacherib, but rather Shalmaneser. 2 To wit, Euphrates: and he meaneth in respect of Babel that they dwelt beyond it. 3 Which were a certain people that envied the Jews. 4:13 1 Meaning, the gifts that are wont to be given to kings when they pass by any country. 4:14 1 Hebrew, in the Chaldea, we have eaten the salt of the palace. 4:17 1 Some read for Shalom, salutation or greeting. 2 Called also Cheeneth, as verse 11.

481 ezra 5:17

18 ¶ The letter which ye sent unto us, hath been openly read before me, 19 And I have commanded and they have searched, and found, that this city of old time hath made insurrection against kings, and hath rebelled, and rebellion hath been committed therein. 20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all beyond the River, and toll, tribute and custom was given unto them. 21 Make ye now a decree that those men may cease, and that the city be not built, till I have given another commandment. 22 Take heed now that ye fail not to do this: why should damage grow to hurt the king? 23 When the copy of king Artaxerxes's letter was read before Rehum and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went up in all the haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews, and caused them to cease by force and power. 24 Then 1ceased the work of the house of God, which was in Jerusalem, and did stay unto the second year of Darius king of Persia. 5 1 Haggai and Zechariah do prophesy. 3 The work of the Temple goeth forward contrary to the mind of Tattenai. 6 His letters to Darius.

sent unto King Darius. 7 They sent a letter unto him, wherein it was written thus, UNTO DARIUS the king, all peace. 8 Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is built with 1great stones, and beams are laid in the walls, and this work is wrought speedily, and prospereth in their hands. 9 Then asked we those Elders, and said unto them thus, Who hath given you commandment to build this house, and to lay the foundation of these walls? 10 We asked their names also that we might certify thee, and that we might write the names of the men that were their rulers. 11 But they answered us thus, and said, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was built of old and many years ago, which a 1great king of Israel bbuilt, and founded it. 12 But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven unto wrath, che gave them over into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babel the Chaldean, and he destroyed this house, and carried the people away captive unto Babel. 13 But in the 1first year of Cyrus king of Babel, King Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God. 14 And the vessels of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the Temple, that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the Temple of Babel, those did Cyrus the king take out of the Temple of Babel, and they gave them unto one 1Sheshbazzar by his name, whom he had made captain. 15 And he said unto him, Take these vessels and go thy way, and put them in the Temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be built in his place. 16 Then came the same Sheshbazzar and laid the foundation of the house of God, which is in Jerusalem, and since that time even until now, hath it been in building, yet is it not finished. 17 Now therefore if it please the king, let there be search made in the house of the king's 1treasures, which is there in Babel, whether a decree hath been made by king Cyrus, to build this house of God in Jerusalem, and let the King send his mind concerning this. 6 At the commandment of Darius king of Persia, after the Temple was built and dedicated, the children of Israel keep the feast of unleavened bread.

chapter 5

a Hag. 1:1

b 1 Kings 6:2

2 Chron. 3:2

c 2 Kings 24:12

2 Kings 25:9

1 Then 1,aHaggai a Prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo a Prophet prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah, and Jerusalem, in the Name of the God of Israel, even unto them. 2 Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak arose, and began to build the house of God at Jerusalem, and with them were the Prophets of God, which 1helped them. 3 ¶ At the same time came to them Tattenai which was captain beyond the River, and Shethar-Boznai, and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath given you commandment to build this house, and to lay the foundations of these walls? 4 1Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that build this building? 5 But the 1eye of their God was upon the Elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they answered by letters thereunto. 6 The copy of the letter, that Tattenai captain beyond the River, and Shethar-Boznai and his companions, Persians, (which were beyond the river)

4:24 1 Not altogether for the Prophets exhorted them to continue, but they used less diligence because of the troubles. 5:1 1 Or, Haggeni. 5:2 1 Which encouraged them to go forward, and accused them that they were more careful to build their own houses, than zealous to build the Temple of God. 5:4 1 That is, the enemies asked this, as verse 10.

5:5 1 His favor and the spirit of strength. 5:8 1 Or, masonry. 5:11 1 To wit, Solomon. 5:13 1 Read Ezra 1:1, 2. 5:14 1 Read Ezra 1:8. 5:17 1 Meaning, in the library, or places where lay the register or records of times.

Ezra 6:1 482

1 Then king Darius gave commandment, and they made search in the 1library of the treasures, which were there laid up in Babel. 2 And there was found in a 1coffer (in the palace that was in the province of the Medes) a volume, and therein was it thus written, as a memorial, 3 In the first year of King Cyrus, King Cyrus made a decree for the house of God in Jerusalem, Let the house be built, even the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the walls thereof be joined together: let the height thereof be threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits, 4 Three 1orders of 2great stones, and one order of timber, and let the expenses be given of the king's house. 5 And also let them render the vessels of the house of God (of gold and silver, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the Temple, which was in Jerusalem, and brought unto Babel) and let 1him go unto the Temple that is in Jerusalem to his place, and put them in the house of God. 6 Therefore Tattenai captain beyond the river, and Shethar-Boznai, (and their companions Apharsecai, which are beyond the River) be ye far 1from thence. 7 Suffer ye the work of this house of God, that the captain of the Jews and the Elders of the Jews may build this house of God in his place. 8 For I have given a commandment what ye shall do to the Elders of these Jews, for the building of this house of God, that of the revenues of the King, which is of the tribute beyond the River, there be incontinently expenses given unto these men that they 1cease not. 9 And that which they shall have need of, let it be given unto them day by day, whether it be young bullocks, or rams, or lambs for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the Priests that are in Jerusalem, that there be no fault, 10 That they may have to offer sweet odors unto the God of heaven, and pray for the king's life, and for his sons. 11 And I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this sentence, the wood shall be pulled down from his house, and shall be set up, and he shall

be hanged thereon, and his house shall be made a dunghill for this. 12 And the God that hath caused his Name 1to dwell there, destroy all kings and people that put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God, which is in Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree, let it be done with speed. 13 ¶ Then Tattenai the Captain beyond the River, and Shethar-Boznai and their companions, according to that which Darius had sent, so they did speedily. 14 So the elders of the Jews built, and they prospered by the prophesying of 1Haggai the Prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, and they built and finished it, by the appointment of the God of Israel, and by the commandment of Cyrus and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. 15 And this house was finished the third day of the month 1Adar, which was 2the sixth year of the reign of King Darius. 16 ¶ And the children of Israel, the Priests, and the Levites, and the residue of the children of the captivity kept the dedication of this house of God with joy, 17 And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs, and twelve goats, for the sin of all Israel, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. 18 And they set the Priests in their order, and the Levites in their courses over the service of God in Jerusalem, as it is written in the abook of Moses. 19 And the children of the captivity kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the first month. 20 (For the Priests and the Levites were purified altogether) and they killed the Passover for all the children of the captivity, and for their brethren the Priests, and for themselves. 21 So the children of Israel which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had 1separated themselves unto them, from the filthiness of the Heathen of the land to seek the Lord God of Israel, did eat, 22 And they kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the Lord had made them glad, and turned the heart of the king of 1Assyria

chapter 6

a Num. 3:6

Num. 8:9

6:1 1 Hebrew, house of books. 6:2 1 Wherein were the acts of the kings of the Medes and Persians. 6:4 1 Or, rows, or courses. 2 Or, Marble. 6:5 1 Meaning, Zerubbabel to whom he giveth charge. 6:6 1 Meddle not with them neither hinder them. 6:8 1 For lack of money. 6:12 1 Who hath appointed that place to have his Name called upon there.

6:14 1 Whom God stirs up to assure them that he would give their work good success. 6:15 1 This is the twelfth month and containeth part of February and part of March. 2 And the two and fortieth year after their first return. 6:21 1 Which were of the heathen, and forsaked their idolatry to worship the true God. 6:22 1 Meaning, Darius who was king of the Medes, Persians, and Assyrians.

483 ezra 7:24

unto them, to 2encourage them in the work of the house of God, even the God of Israel. 7 13 By the commandment of the king, Ezra and his companions come to Jerusalem. 27 He giveth thanks to God.

is willing in my kingdom of the people of Israel, and of the Priests, and Levites, 1to go to Jerusalem with thee, shall go. 14 Therefore art thou sent of the king and his seven counselors, to 1enquire in Judah and Jerusalem, according to the Law of thy God, which is in 2thine hand, 15 And to carry the silver and the gold, which the king and his counselors willingly offer unto the God of Israel (whose habitation is in Jerusalem) 16 And all the silver and gold that thou canst find in all the province of Babel, with the free offering of the people, and that which the Priests offer willingly to the house of their God which is in Jerusalem, 17 That thou mayest buy speedily with this silver, bullocks, rams, lambs, with their meat offerings, and their drink offerings: and thou shalt offer them upon the Altar of the house of your God, which is in Jerusalem. 18 And whatsoever it pleaseth thee and thy brethren to do with the rest of the silver and gold, do ye it according to the will of your 1God. 19 And the vessels that are given thee for the service of the house of thy God, those deliver thou before God in Jerusalem. 20 And the residue that shall be needful for the house of thy God, which shall be meet for thee to bestow, thou shalt bestow it out of the King's treasure house, 21 And I king Artaxerxes have given commandment to all the treasurers which are beyond 1the River, that whatsoever Ezra the Priest and Scribe of the Law of the God of heaven shall require of you, that it be done incontinently, 22 Unto an hundred talents of silver, unto an hundred 1measures of wheat, and unto an hundred 2baths of wine, and unto an hundred baths of oil, and salt without writing. 23 Whatsoever is by the commandment of the God of heaven, let it be done speedily for the house of the God of heaven: for why should he be wroth 1against the realm of the King and his children? 24 And we certify you, that upon any of the Priests, Levites, singers, porters, Nethinim, or Ministers in

1 Now after these things, in the reign of 1Arta­ xerxes king of Persia, was Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, 2 The son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub, 3 The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth, 4 The son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki, 5 The son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of 1Aaron, the chief Priest. 6 This Ezra came up from Babel, and was a 1Scribe, prompt in the Law of Moses, which the Lord God of Israel had given, and the king gave him all his request according to the hand of the Lord his God, which was upon him. 7 And there went up certain of the children of Israel, and of the Priests, and the Levites, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinim unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of king Artaxerxes. 8 And he came to Jerusalem in the 1fifth month, which was in the seventh year 2of the king. 9 For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babel, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem according to the good hand of his God that was upon him. 10 For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach the precepts and judgments in Israel. 11 ¶ And this is the copy of the letter that king Artaxerxes gave unto Ezra the Priest and Scribe, even a writer of the words of the commandments of the Lord, and of his statutes over Israel. 12 ARTAXERXES king of kings, to Ezra the Priest and perfect Scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, and to 1Cheeneth. 13 I have given commandment, that everyone that

2 Hebrew, to strengthen their hands. 7:1 1 The Hebrews write, that divers of the kings of Persia were called by this name, as Pharaoh was a common name to the kings of Egypt, and Caesar to the Emperors Roman. 7:5 1 Ezra deduceth his kindred, till he cometh to Aaron, to prove that he came of him. 7:6 1 He showeth here what a Scribe is, who had charge to write the Law and to expound it, whom Mark calleth a Scribe, Mark 12:28, Matthew and Luke called him a Lawyer or doctor of the Law, Matt. 22:35; Luke 10:25. 7:8 1 That contained part of July, and part of August. 2 Of king Darius. 7:12 1 Some take this for the name of a people, some for time or

continuance, meaning that the king wished him long life. 7:13 1 Which remained as yet in Babylon and had not returned with Zerubbabel. 7:14 1 To examine who lived according to the Law. 2 Whereof thou art expert. 7:18 1 As ye know best may serve to God's glory. 7:21 1 Which was the river Euphrates, and they were beyond it in respect of Babylon. 7:22 1 Hebrew, Corim. 2 Read 1 Kings 7:26; 2 Chron. 2:10. 7:23 1 This declareth that the fear of God's judgments causeth him to use this liberality, and not the love that he bare to God's glory: or affection to his people.

Ezra 7:25 484

11 And of the sons of Bebai, Zechariah the son of Bebai, and with him eight and twenty males. 12 And of the sons of Azgad, Johanan the son of Hakkatan, and with him an hundred and ten males. 13 And of the sons of Adonikam, that were the 1last, whose names are these: Eliphelet, Jehiel and Shemaiah, and with them threescore males. 14 And of the sons of Bigvai, Uthai, and Zabbud, and with them seventy males. 15 And I gathered them to the 1river that goeth toward Ahava, and there abode we three days: then I viewed the people, and the Priests, and found there none of the sons of Levi. 16 Therefore sent I to Eliezer, to Ariel, to Shemeiah, and to Elnathan, and to Jarib, and to Elnathan, and to Nathan, and to Zechariah, and to Meshullam the chief, and to Joiarib, and to Elnathan men of understanding, 17 And I gave them commandment, to Iddo the 1chiefest at the place of Casiphia, and I 2told them the words that they should speak to Iddo, and to his brethren the Nethinim at the place of Casiphia, that they should cause the ministers of the house of our God to come unto us. 18 So by the good hand of our God, which was upon us, they brought us a man of understanding of the sons of Mahli the son of Levi the son of Israel, and Sherebiah with his sons and his brethren, even eighteen. 19 Also Hashabiah, and with him Jeshaiah of the sons of Merari, with his brethren, and their sons twenty. 20 And of the 1Nethinim, whom David had set, and the Princes for the service of the Levites, two hundred and twenty of the Nethinim, which all were named by name. 21 And there at the river, by Ahava, I proclaimed a fast, that we might humble 1ourselves before our God, and seek of him a right way for us, and for our children, and for all our substance. 22 For I was 1ashamed to require of the king an army and horsemen, to help us against the enemy in the way, because we had spoken to the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them that seek him in goodness, but his power and his wrath is against

this house of God, there shall no governor lay upon them toll, tribute nor custom. 25 And thou Ezra (after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand) 1set judges and arbiters, which may judge all the people that is beyond the River, even all that know the law of thy God, and teach ye them that know it not. 26 And whosoever will not do the Law of thy God, and the king's law, let him have judgment without delay, whether it be unto death, or to banishment, or to confiscation of goods, or to imprisonment. 27 1Blessed be the Lord God of our fathers, which so hath put in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the Lord that is in Jerusalem, 28 And hath inclined mercy toward me, before the king and his counselors, and before all the king's mighty Princes: and I was comforted by the hand of the Lord my God which was upon me, and I gathered the chief of Israel to go up with me. 8 1 The number of them that returned to Jerusalem with Ezra. 21 He causeth them to fast. 24 He admonisheth the Priests of their duty. 31 What they did when they came to Jerusalem.

1 These are now the chief fathers of them, and the genealogy of them that came up with me from Babel, in the reign of king 1Artaxerxes. 2 Of the sons of Phinehas, Gershom: of the sons of Ithamar, Daniel: of the sons of David, Hattush: 3 Of the sons of Shechaniah, of the sons of Pharosh, Zechariah, and with him the count of the males, an hundred and fifty. 4 Of the sons of 1Pahath-Moab, Elihoenai, the son of Zerahiah, and with him two hundred males. 5 Of the sons of Shechaniah, the son of Jahaziel, and with him three hundred males. 6 And of the sons of Adin, Ebed the son of Jonathan, and with him fifty males. 7 And of the sons of Elam, Jeshaiah the son of Athaliah, and with him seventy males. 8 And of the sons of Shephatiah, Zebadiah the son of Michael, and with him fourscore males. 9 Of the sons of Joab, Obadiah the son of Jehiel, and with him two hundred and eighteen males. 10 And of the sons of Shelomith the son of Josiphiah, and with him an hundred and threescore males.

7:25 1 He gave Ezra full authority to restore all things according to the word of God, and to punish them that resisted, and would not obey. 7:27 1 Thus Ezra gave God thanks for that he gave him so good suc­ cess in his affairs by reason of the king. 8:1 1 Read Ezra 7. 8:4 1 Or, captains of Moab. 8:13 1 That came to go with Ezra. 8:15 1 To that place of Euphrates, where Ahava the river entereth into it. 8:17 1 He was the chiefest that taught there the Law of God unto

the Levites. 2 Hebrew, put words in their mouth. 8:20 1 Read Ezra 2:43. 8:21 1 He showeth that the end of fasting, is to humble the body to the spirit, which must proceed of the heart lively touched, or else it is but hypocrisy. 8:22 1 He thought it better to commit himself to the protection of God, than by seeking these ordinary means to give occasion to oth­ ers to think that he did doubt of God's power.

485 ezra 9:9

all them that forsake him. 23 So we fasted, and besought our God for this: and he was entreated of us. 24 Then I separated twelve of the chief of the Priests, Sherebiah, and Hashabiah, and ten of their brethren with them, 25 And weighed them the silver and the gold and the vessels, even the offering of the house of our God, which the king and his counselors and his Princes, and all Israel that were present had offered. 26 And I weighed unto their hand six hundred and fifty 1talents of silver, and in silver vessel an hundred talents, and in gold, an hundred talents, 27 And twenty basins of gold, of a thousand 1drams, and two vessels of shining brass very good, and precious as gold. 28 ¶ And I said unto them, Ye are consecrated unto the Lord, and the vessels are consecrated, and the gold and the silver are freely offered unto the Lord God of your fathers. 29 Watch ye, and keep them until ye weigh them before the chief Priests and the Levites, and the chief fathers of Israel in Jerusalem in the chambers of the house of the Lord. 30 So the Priests and the Levites received the weight of the silver, and of the gold, and of the vessels to bring them to Jerusalem, unto the house of our God. 31 ¶ Then we departed from the river of Ahavah on the twelfth day of the first month, to go unto Jerusalem, and the hand of our God was upon us, and delivered us from the hand of the enemy, and of such as laid 1wait by the way. 32 And we came to Jerusalem, and abode there three days. 33 And on the fourth day was the silver weighed, and the gold, and the vessel, in the house of our God, by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the Priest, and with him was Eleazar the son of Phinehas, and with them was Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui the 1Levites, 34 By number and by weight of every one, and all the weight was written at the same time. 35 Also the children of the captivity, which were come out of captivity, offered burnt offerings unto the God of Israel, twelve bullocks for all Israel, ninety and six rams, seventy and seven lambs, and twelve he goats for sin: all was a burnt offering of the Lord.

36 And they delivered the King's commission unto the King's officers, and to the captains beyond the river: and they promoted the people, and the house of God. 9 1 Ezra complaineth on the people that had turned themselves from God, and married with the Gentiles. 5 He prayeth unto God.

chapter 9

a Exod. 29:39

Num. 28:3,4

1 When as these things were done, the rulers came to me, saying, The people of Israel, and the Priests, and the Levites are not 1separated from the people of the lands (as touching their abominations) to wit, of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites, the Ammonites, the Moabites, the Egyptians, and the Amorites. 2 For they have taken their daughters to themselves, and to their sons, and they have mixed the holy seed with the people of the lands, and the hand of the 1Princes and rulers have been chief in this trespass. 3 But when I heard this saying, I rent my clothes and my garment, and plucked off the hair of mine head, and of my beard, and sat down 1astonied. 4 And there assembled unto me all that feared the words of the God of Israel, because of the transgression of them of the captivity. And I sat down astonied until the aevening sacrifice. 5 And at the evening sacrifice I rose up from mine heaviness, and when I had rent my clothes and my garment, I fell upon my knees, and spread out mine hands unto the Lord my God, 6 And said, O my God, I am confounded and ashamed to lift up mine eyes unto thee my God: for our iniquities are increased over 1our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the 2heaven. 7 From the days of our fathers have we been in a great trespass unto this day, and for our iniquities have we, our kings, and our Priests been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, unto the sword, into captivity, into a spoil, and into confusion of face, as appeareth this day. 8 And now for a little space grace hath been showed from the Lord our God, in causing a remnant to escape, and in giving us a 1nail in his holy place, that our God may light our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our servitude. 9 For though we were bondmen, yet our God hath

8:26 1 Read 1 Kings 9:14. 8:27 1 Read Ezra 2:29. 8:31 1 This declared that their journey was full of danger, and yet God delivered them according to their prayer. 8:33 1 This was a token of a good conscience and of his integrity, that he would have witnesses of his fidelity. 9:1 1 From the time they came home under Zerubbabel until the coming of Ezra, they had degenerated contrary to the Law of God,

and married where it was not lawful, Deut. 7:3. 9:2 1 That is, the governors are the chief beginners hereof. 9:3 1 As one doubting whether God would continue his benefits towards us, or else destroy this which he had begun. 9:6 1 That is, we are drowned in sin. 2 They so exceed that they cannot grow greater. 9:8 1 In giving us a resting place. It is a similitude taken of them that remain still in a place, which smite nails to hang things upon, Isa. 22:23.

Ezra 9:10 486

not forsaken us in our bondage, but hath inclined mercy unto us in the sight of the kings of Persia, to give us life, and to erect the house of our God, and to redress the desolate places thereof, and to give us a wall in Judah and in Jerusalem. 10 And now, our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy commandments, 11 Which thou hast commanded by thy servants the Prophets, saying, bThe land whereunto ye go to possess it, is an unclean land, because of the filthiness of the people of the lands, which by their abominations, and by their uncleanness have filled it from corner to corner. 12 Now therefore shall ye not give your daughters unto their sons, neither shall ye take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their cpeace nor wealth forever, that ye may be strong and eat the goodness of the land, and leave it for an inheritance to your sons forever. 13 And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespasses, (seeing that thou our God hast stayed us from being beneath 1for our iniquities, and hast given us such deliverance.) 14 Should we return to break thy commandments, and join in affinity with the people of such abominations? wouldest not thou be angry toward us till thou hadst consumed us, so that there should be no remnant nor any escaping? 15 O Lord God of Israel, thou art just, for we have been 1reserved to escape, as appeareth this day: behold, we are before thee in our trespass: therefore we cannot stand before thee because of it. 10 1 The people repent and turn, and put away their strange wives.

God, to put away 1all the wives (and such as are born of them) according to the counsel of the Lord, and of those that fear the commandments of our God, and let it be done according to the Law. 4 Arise: for the matter 1belongeth unto thee: we also will be with thee: be of comfort and do it. 5 ¶ Then arose Ezra, and caused the chief Priests, the Levites, and all Israel, to swear that they would do according to this word. So they sware. 6 And Ezra rose up from before the house of God, and went into the chamber of Johanan the son of Eliashib: he went even thither, but he did eat neither bread nor drunk water: for he mourned, because of the transgression of them of the captivity. 7 And they caused a proclamation to go throughout Judah and Jerusalem, unto 1all them of the captivity, that they should assemble themselves unto Jerusalem. 8 And whosoever would not come within three days according to the counsel of the Princes and Elders, all his substance should be 1forfeit, and he should be separate from the Congregation of them of the captivity. 9 ¶ Then all the men of Judah and Benjamin assembled themselves unto Jerusalem within three days, which was the twentieth day of the 1ninth month, and all the people sat in the street of the house of God, trembling for this matter, and for the 2rain. 10 And Ezra the Priest stood up, and said unto them, Ye have transgressed, and have taken strange wives, to 1increase the trespass of Israel. 11 Now therefore 1give praise unto the Lord God of your fathers, and do his will, and separate yourselves from the people of the land, and from the strange wives. 12 And all the Congregation answered, and said with a loud voice, So will we do according to thy words unto us. 13 But the people are many, and it is a rainy weather, and we are not able to stand without, neither is it the work of one day or two: for we are many that have offended in this thing. 14 Let our rulers stand therefore 1before all the Congregation, and let all them which have taken strange wives in our cities, come at the time appointed, and with [them] the Elders of every city and the judges thereof, till the fierce wrath of our God for this matter turn away from us.

b Exod. 23:32

Exod. 34:12,

15-16 Deut. 7:13

c Deut. 23:6

1 While Ezra prayed thus, and 1confessed himself weeping, and falling down before the house of God, there assembled unto him of Israel a very great Congregation of men and women and children: for the people wept with a great lamentation. 2 Then Shechaniah the son of Jehiel one of the sons of Elam answered, and said to Ezra, We have trespassed against our God, and have taken strange wives of the people of the land, yet now there is 1hope in Israel concerning this. 3 Now therefore let us make a covenant with our

9:13 1 Hast not utterly cast us down and destroyed us for our sins, Deut. 28:13. 9:15 1 He showeth that God is just in punishing his people, and yet merciful in reserving a residue in whom he showeth favor. 10:1 1 He confessed his sins, and the sins of the people. 10:2 1 Meaning, that God would receive them to mercy. 10:3 1 Which are strangers and married contrary to the Law of God. 10:4 1 Because God hath given thee authority and learning to per­

suade the people herein, and to command them. 10:7 1 Hebrew, the sons of the captivity. 10:8 1 Or, condemned. 10:9 1 Which contained part of November and part of December. 2 For the season was given to rain and so the weather was more sharp and cold, and also their conscience touched them. 10:10 1 Ye have laid one sin upon another. 10:11 1 Read Josh. 7:19. 10:14 1 Let them be appointed to examine this matter.

487 ezra 10:44

15 Then were appointed Jonathan the son of Asahel, and Jahaziah the son of Tikvah over this matter, and Meshullam and Shabbethai the Levites helped them. 16 And they of the captivity did so, and 1departed, even Ezra the Priest, and the men that were chief fathers to the family of their fathers by name, and sat down in the first day of the tenth month to examine the matter. 17 And until the first day of the first month they were finishing the business with all the men that had taken strange wives. 18 And of the sons of the Priests there were men found, that had taken strange wives, to wit, of the sons of Jeshua, the son of Jozadak, and of his brethren, Maaseiah, Eliezer, and Jarib, and Gedaliah. 19 And they gave 1their hands, that they would put away their wives, and they that had trespassed gave a ram for their trespass. 20 And of the sons of Immer, Honani, and Zeb­ adiah. 21 And of the sons of Harim, Maaseiah, and Elijah, and Shemaiah, and Jehiel, and Uzziah. 22 And of the sons of Pashur, Elioenai, Maaseiah, Ishmael, Nethanel, Jozabad, and Elasah. 23 And of the Levites, Jozabad and Shimei, and Kelaiah, (which is Kelita) Pethahiah, Judah and Eliezer. 24 And of the singers, Eliashib. And of the porters, Shallum, and Telem, and Uri. 25 And of 1Israel: of the sons of Parosh, Ramiah, and Jeziah, and Malchiah, and Mijamin, and Eleazar,

and Malchijah, and Benaiah. 26 And of the sons of Elam, Mattaniah, Zechariah, and Jehiel, and Abdi, and Jeremoth, and Eliah. 27 And of the sons of Zattu, Elioenai, Eliashib, Mattaniah, and Jerimoth, and Zabad, and Aziza. 28 And of the sons of Bebai, Jehohanan, Hananiah, Zabbai, Athlai. 29 And of the sons of Bani, Meshullam, Malluch, and Adaiah, Jashub, and Sheal, Jeremoth. 30 And of the sons of 1Pahath-Moab, Adna, and Chelal, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattaniah, Bezaleel, and Binnui, and Manasseh. 31 And of the sons of Harim, Eliezer, Ishijah, Malchiah, Shemaiah, Shimeon, 32 Benjamin, Malluch, Shamariah. 33 Of the sons of Hashum, Mattenai, Mattattah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, Shimei. 34 Of the sons of Bani, Maadai, Amram, and Uel, 35 Banaiah, Bedeiah, Chelluh, 36 Vaniah, Meremoth, Eliashib, 37 Mattaniah, Mattenai, and Jaasai, 38 And Bani, and Binnui, Shimei, 39 And Shelemiah, and Nathan, and Adaiah, 40 Machnadebai, Shashai, Sharai, 41 Azarel, and Shelemiah, Shemariah, 42 Shallum, Amariah, Joseph. 43 Of the sons of Nebo, Jeiel, Mattithiah, Zabad, Zebina, Jadai, and Joel, Benaiah. 44 All these had taken strange wives: and among them were women that had 1children.

10:16 1 They went to the chief cities to sit on this matter which was three months in finishing. 10:19 1 As a token that they would keep promise and do it. 10:25 1 Meaning, of the common people: for before he spake of the

Priests and Levites. 10:30 1 Or, the captain of Moab. 10:44 1 Which also were made illegitimate because the marriage was unlawful.

N e h e m i a h

1 4 Nehemiah bewaileth the calamity of Jerusalem. 5 He confesseth the sins of the people, and praiseth God for them.

whom thou hast redeemed by thy great power, and by thy mighty hand. 11 O Lord, I beseech thee, let thine ear now hearken to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to 1fear thy Name, and I pray thee, cause thy servant to prosper this day, and give him favor in the presence of 2this man: for I was the king's butler. 2 1 After Nehemiah had obtained letters of Artaxerxes, 11 he came to Jerusalem, 17 and built the walls.

chapter 1

a Dan. 9:4

b Deut. 29:21,28

c Deut. 30:4

1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. In the month 1Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in the palace of Shushan, 2 Came Hanani, one of my 1brethren, he and the men of Judah, and I asked them concerning the Jews that were delivered, which were of the residue of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. 3 And they said unto me, The residue that are left of the captivity there in the 1province, are in great affliction and in reproach, and the wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and the gates thereof are burnt with fire. 4 And when I heard these words, I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and I fasted and prayed before the God of heaven, 5 And said, aO Lord God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him, and observe his commandments, 6 I pray thee let thine ears be attent, and thine eyes open, to hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee daily, day and night for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee, both I and my father's house have sinned: 7 We have 1grievously sinned against thee, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which thou commandedst thy servant Moses. 8 I beseech thee, remember the word that thou commandedst thy servant Moses, saying, Ye will transgress, and bI will scatter you abroad among the people. 9 But if ye return unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them, cthough your scattering were to the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather you from thence, and will bring you unto the place that I have chosen to place my Name there. 10 Now these are thy servants and thy people

1 Now in the month 1Nisan in the twentieth year of king 2Artaxerxes, the wine stood before him, and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I was not before time sad in his presence. 2 And the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing, but sorrow of heart. Then was I sore afraid, 3 And I said to the King, God save the king forever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city and house of the sepulchers of my fathers lieth waste, and the gates thereof are devoured with fire? 4 And the king said unto me, For what thing doest thou require? Then I prayed 1to the God of heaven, 5 And said unto the king, If it please the king, and if thy servant have found favor in thy sight, I desire that thou wouldest send me to Judah unto the city of the sepulchers of my fathers, that I may build it. 6 And the King said unto me, (the Queen also sitting by him:) How long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou come again? So it pleased the king, and he sent me, and I set him a time. 7 After I said unto the King, If it please the King, let them give me letters to the captains beyond the 1River, that they may convey me over, till I come into Judah, 8 And letters unto Asaph the keeper of the king's 1park, that he may give me timber to build the gates of the palace (which appertained to the house) and for the walls of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king gave me according to 2the

1:1 1 Which containeth part of November and part of December, and was their ninth month. 1:2 1 A Jew as I was. 1:3 1 Meaning, in Judea. 1:7 1 Hebrew, corrupted. 1:11 1 That is, to worship thee. 2 To wit, the king Artaxerxes.

2:1 1 Which was the first month of the year, and containeth part of March and part of April. 2 Who is also called Darius, read Ezra 7:1, and was the son of Hystaspis. 2:4 1 I desired God in mine heart to prosper mine enterprise. 2:7 1 Or, Euphrates. 2:8 1 Or, Paradise. 2 As God moved me to ask, and as he gave me good success therein.

489 nehemiah 3:10

good hand of my God upon me. 9 ¶ Then came I to the captains beyond the River, and gave them the king's letters. And the king had sent captains of the army and horsemen with me. 10 But 1Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah a servant an Ammonite heard it, and it grieved them sore, that there was come a man which sought the wealth of the children of Israel. 11 So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days. 12 And I rose in the night, I, and a few men with me: for I told no man, what God had put in mine heart to do at Jerusalem, and there was not a beast with me, save the beast whereon I rode. 13 And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, and came before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, how they were broken down, and the ports thereof devoured with the fire. 14 Then I went forth unto the gate of the 1fountain, and to the king's fish pool, and there was no room for the beast that was under me to pass. 15 Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and coming back, I entered by the gate of the valley, and returned. 16 And the rulers knew not whither I was gone, nor what I did, neither did I as yet tell it unto the Jews, nor to the Priests, nor to the noble men, nor to the rulers, nor to the rest that labored in the work. 17 Afterward I said unto them, Ye see the misery that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burnt with fire: come, and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more 1a reproach. 18 Then I told them of the hand of my God, (which was good over me) and also of the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise, and build. So they 1strengthened their hand to good. 19 But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant an Ammonite, and 1Geshem the Arabian heard it, they mocked us, and despised us, and said, What a thing is this that ye do? Will ye 2rebel against

the king? 20 Then answered I them, and said to them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us, and we his servants will rise up and build: but as for you, ye have no portion nor right, nor 1memorial in Jerusalem. 3 The number of them that built the walls.

chapter 3

a Isa. 22:11

1 Then arose Eliashib the high Priest with his brethren the Priests, and they built the sheep gate: they 1repaired it, and set up the doors thereof: even unto the tower of Meah repaired they it, and unto the tower of Hananel. 2 And next unto him built the men of Jericho, and beside him Zaccur the son of Imri. 3 But the fish port did the sons of Senaah build, which also laid the beams thereof, and set on the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof. 4 And next unto them fortified Meremoth, the son of Urijah, the son of Koz: and next unto them fortified Meshullam, the son of Berechiah, the son of Meshezabel: and next unto them fortified Zadok, the son of Baana: 5 And next unto them fortified the Tekoites: but the great men of them 1put not their necks to the works of their lords. 6 And the gate of the aold fish pool fortified Jehoiada the son of Paseah, and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah: they laid the beams thereof, and set on the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof. 7 Next unto them also fortified Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the Meronothite, men of Gibeon, and of Mizpah, unto the 1throne of the Duke, which was beyond the River. 8 Next unto him fortified Uzziel the son of Harhaiah 1of the goldsmiths: next unto him also fortified Hananiah the son 2of Harakkahim, and they repaired Jerusalem unto the broad wall. 9 Also next unto them fortified Rephaiah, the son of Hur, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem. 10 And next unto him fortified Jedaiah the son of Harumaph, even over against his house: and next unto him fortified Hattush the son of Hashabniah.

2:10 1 These were great enemies to the Jews, and labored always both by force and subtlety to overcome them, and Tobiah, because his wife was a Jewess, had advertisement ever of their affairs, and so wrought them great trouble. 2:14 1 Or, conduit. 2:17 1 That is, contemned of other nations, as though God had for­ saken us. 2:18 1 They were encouraged, and gave themselves to do well, and to travel in this worthy enterprise. 2:19 1 These were three chief governors under the king of Persia beyond Euphrates. 2 Thus the wicked when they will burden the children of God, ever lay treason unto their charge, both because it maketh them most

odious to the world, and also stirreth the hatred of princes most against them. 2:20 1 Neither are ye of the number of the children of God (to whom he hath appointed this city only) neither did any of your predeces­ sors ever fear God. 3:1 1 In Hebrew, they sanctified it, that is, they finished it, and so dedicated it to the Lord by prayer, in desiring him to maintain it. 3:5 1 The rich and mighty would not obey them which were appointed officers in this work, neither would they help thereunto. 3:7 1 Unto the place where the Duke was wont to sit in judgment, who governed the country in their absence. 3:8 1 Or, Zorephim. 2 Or, of the Apothecaries.

Nehemiah 3:11 490

11 Malchijah the son of Harim, and Hashub the son of Pahath-Moab fortified the second 1portion, and the tower of the furnaces. 12 Next unto him also fortified Shallum the son of Hallohesh, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem, he and his daughters. 13 The valley gate fortified Hanun, and the inhabi­ tants of Zanoah: they built it, and set on the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, even a thousand cubits on the wall unto the dung port. 14 But the dung port fortified Malchijah the son of Rechab, the ruler of the fourth part of Beth Haccarem: he built it, and set on the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof. 15 But the gate of the fountain fortified Shallun the son of Col-Hozeh, the ruler of the fourth part of Mizpah: he built it, and covered it, and set on the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall unto the fish pool of 1Shelah by the king's garden, and unto the steps that go down from the city of David. 16 After him fortified Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half part of Beth Zur until the other side over against the sepulchers of David and to the fish pool that was repaired, and unto the house of the mighty. 17 After him fortified the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani, and the next unto him fortified Hashabiah the ruler of the half part of Keilah in his quarter. 18 After him fortified their brethren: Bavai, the son of Henadad the ruler of the half part of Keilah: 19 And next unto him fortified Ezer, the son of Jeshua the ruler of Mizpah, the other portion over against the going up to the 1corner of the armor. 20 After him was earnest Baruch the son of Zabbai, and fortified another portion from the corner unto the door of the house of Eliashib the high Priest. 21 After him fortified Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz, another portion from the door of the house of Eliashib, even as long as the house of Eliashib extended. 22 After him also fortified the Priests, the men of 1the plain. 23 After them fortified Benjamin, and Hasshub over against their house: after him fortified Azariah the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ananiah, by his house. 24 After him fortified Binnui, the son of Henadad

another portion, from the house of Azariah unto the turning and unto the corner. 25 Palal, the son of Uzai, from over against the corner, and the high tower, that lieth out from the King's house, which is beside the court of the prison. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh. 26 And the 1Nethinim they dwelt in the fortress unto the place over against the water gate Eastward, and to the tower that lieth out. 27 After him fortified the Tekoites another portion over against the great tower that lieth out even unto the wall of the fortress. 28 From above the horse gate forth fortified the Priests, every one over against his house. 29 After them fortified Zadok the son of Immer over against his house: and after him fortified Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah the keeper of the East gate. 30 After him fortified Hananiah the son of Shel­ emiah, and Hanun the son of Zalaph, the 1sixth, another portion: after him fortified Meshullam, the son of Berechiah, over against his chamber. 31 After him fortified Malchijah the goldsmith's son, until the house of the Nethinim, and of the Merchants over against the gate 1Miphkad, and to the chamber in the corner. 32 And between the chamber of the corner unto the sheep gate fortified the goldsmiths and the merchants. 4 7 The building of Jerusalem is hindered, 15 but God breaketh their enterprise. 17 The Jews build with one hand, and hold their weapons in the other.

1 But when Sanballat heard that we built the wall, then was he wroth and sore grieved, and mocked the Jews, 2 And said before his 1brethren and the army of Samaria, thus he said, What do these 2weak Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they finish it in a day? will they make the stones whole again out of the heaps of dust, seeing they are burnt? 3 And Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and said, Although they build, yet if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stony wall. 4 1Hear, O our God (for we are despised) and turn their shame upon their own head, and give them unto a prey 2in the land of their captivity,

3:11 1 Or, measure. 3:15 1 Or, Shoa. 3:19 1 Where the weapons and armor of the city lay. 3:22 1 Which dwelt in the plain country by Jordan and Jericho. 3:26 1 Read Ezra 2:43. 3:30 1 Meaning the sixth of his sons. 3:31 1 Which was the place of judgment or execution.

4:2 1 Of his companions that dwelt in Samaria. 2 Thus the wicked that consider not that God's power is ever in a readiness for the defense of his, mock them as though they were weak and feeble. 4:4 1 This is the remedy that the children of God have against the derision and threatenings of their enemies, to flee to God by prayer. 2 Let them be spoiled and led away captive.

491 nehemiah 5:6

5 And cover not their 1iniquity, neither let their sin be put out in thy presence: for they have provoked us before the builders. 6 So we built the wall, and all the wall was joined unto the 1half thereof, and the heart of the people was to work. 7 ¶ But when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodims heard that the walls of Jerusalem were repaired, (for the breaches began to be stopped) then they were very wroth, 8 And conspired all together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to 1hinder them. 9 Then we prayed unto our God, and set watchmen by them, day and night, because of them. 10 And Judah said, The strength of the bearers is weakened, and there is much earth, so that we are not able to build the wall. 11 Also our adversaries had said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come into the midst of them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease. 12 But when the Jews (which dwelt beside them) came, they told us 1ten times, 2From all places, whence ye shall return, they will be upon us. 13 Therefore set I in the lower places behind the wall upon the tops of the stones, and placed the people by their families, with their swords, their spears, and their bows. 14 Then I beheld, and rose up, and said unto the princes, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Be not afraid of them: 1remember the great Lord, and fearful, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses. 15 And when our enemies heard that it was known unto us, then God brought their counsel to nought, and we turned all again to the wall, every one unto his work. 16 And from that day half of the young men did the labor, and the other half part of them held the spears, and shields, and bows, and habergeons: and the Rulers stood 1behind all the house of Judah. 17 They that built on the wall, and they that bare burdens, and they that laded, did the work with one hand, and with the other held the sword.

18 For every one of the builders had his sword girded on his loins, and so built: and he that blew the trumpet, was beside me. 19 Then said I unto the Princes, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from another. 20 In what place therefore ye hear the sound of the trumpet, 1resort ye thither unto us: our God shall fight for us. 21 So we labored in the work, and half of them held the spears, from the appearing of the morning, till the stars came forth. 22 And at the same time said I unto the people, Let everyone with his servant lodge within Jerusalem, that they may be a watch for us in the night, and labor in the day. 23 So neither I, nor my brethren, nor my servants, nor the men of the ward (which followed me) none of us did put off our clothes, save everyone put them off 1for washing. 5 1 The people are oppressed and in necessity. 6 Nehemiah remedieth it. 14 He took not the portion of others that had ruled before, lest he should grieve the people.

1 Now there was a great cry of the people, and of their wives 1against their brethren the Jews. 2 For there were that said, We, our sons and our daughters are many, therefore we take up 1corn, that we may eat and live. 3 And there were that said, We must gage our lands, and our vineyards, and our houses, and take up corn for the famine. 4 There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's 1tribute upon our lands and our vineyards. 5 And now our flesh is as 1the flesh of our brethren, and our sons as their sons: and lo, we bring into subjection our sons and our daughters, as servants, and there be of our daughters now in subjection, and there is no power 2in our hands: for other men have our lands and our vineyards. 6 Then was I very angry when I heard their cry and these words.

4:5 1 Let the plagues declare to the world that they set themselves against thee and against thy Church: that he prayeth only having respect to God's glory and not for any private affection, or grudge. 4:6 1 Or, half height. 4:8 1 Hebrew, make to stay, meaning the people. 4:12 1 That is, oftentimes. 2 They which brought the tidings, said thus, When you leave your work, and go either to eat or to rest, your enemies will assail you. 4:14 1 Who is ever at hand to deliver his out of danger: and there­ fore seeing they should fight for the maintenance of God's glory, and for the preservation of their own lives and of theirs, he encourageth them to play the valiant men.

4:16 1 To oversee them and to encourage them to their work. 4:20 1 Meaning, to resist their enemies, if need required. 4:23 1 That is, when they purified themselves, or else when they washed their clothes. 5:1 1 Against the rich which oppressed them. 5:2 1 This is the complaint of the people, showing to what extremity they were brought unto. 5:4 1 To pay our tribute to the king of the Persians, which was exacted yearly of us. 5:5 1 By nature the rich is no better than the poor. 2 We are not able to redeem them, but for poverty are constrained to hire them to others.

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7 And I thought in my mind, and I rebuked the princes, and the rulers, and said unto them, You lay 1burdens every one upon his brethren: and I set a great 2assembly against them, 8 And I said unto them, We (according to our ability) have redeemed our brethren the Jews, which were sold unto the heathen: and will you sell your brethren again, or shall they be 1sold unto us? Then held they their peace, and could not answer. 9 1I said also, That which ye do, is not good. Ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God, for the 2reproach of the heathen our enemies? 10 For even I, my brethren, and my servants do lend them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this 1burden. 11 Restore, I pray you, unto them this day their lands, their vineyards, their olives, and their houses, and remit the hundredth part of the silver and of the corn, of the wine, and of the oil 1that ye exact of them. 12 Then said they, We will restore it, and will not require it of them: we will do as thou hast said. Then I called the Priests and caused them to swear, that they should do according to this promise. 13 So I shook my lap, and said, So let God shake out every man that will not perform this promise, from his house, and from his labor: even thus let him be shaken out and emptied. And all the Congregation said, Amen, and praised the Lord: and the people did according to this promise. 14 And from the time that the King gave me charge to be governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year, even unto the two and thirtieth year of King Artaxerxes, that is, twelve years, I, and my brethren have not eaten the 1bread of the governor. 15 For the former governors that were before me, had been chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver: yea, and their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not I, because of the fear of God. 16 But rather I fortified a portion in the work of this wall, and we bought no land, and all my servants

came thither together unto the work. 17 Moreover there were at my table an hundred and fifty of the Jews, and rulers, which came unto us from among the heathen that are about us. 18 And there was prepared daily an ox, and six chosen sheep, and birds were prepared for me, and 1within ten days wine for all 2in abundance. Yet for all this I required not the bread of the governor: for the bondage was grievous unto this people. 19 Remember me, O my God, in goodness, according to all that I have done for this people. 6 8 Nehemiah answereth with great wisdom and zeal to his adversary. 11 He is not discouraged by the false Prophets.

1 And when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had built the wall, and that there were no more 1breaches therein (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates) 2 Then sent Sanballat and Geshem unto me, saying, come thou that we may meet together in the villages in the plain of Ono: and they thought to do me evil. 3 Therefore I sent messengers unto them, saying, I have a great work to do, and I cannot come down: 1why should the work cease, while I leave it and come down to you? 4 Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort. And I answered them after the same manner. 5 Then sent Sanballat his servant after this sort unto me the fifth time, with an open letter in his hand, 6 Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and 1Gashmu hath said it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel, for the which cause thou buildest the wall, and thou wilt be their king according to these 2words. 7 Thou hast also ordained 1the Prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a King in Judah: and now according to these words it shall come to the King's ears: come now therefore, and let us take

5:7 1 You press them with usury, and seek how to bring all things into your hands. 2 Both because they should be moved with pity, seeing how many were by them oppressed, and also hear the judgment of others, which should be as it were witnesses of their dealings toward their brethren. 5:8 1 Seeing God hath once delivered them from the bondage of the heathen, shall we make them our slaves? 5:9 1 Meaning, Nehemiah. 2 Who by this occasion will blaspheme the Name of God, seeing that our acts are no better than theirs. 5:10 1 Or, usury. 5:11 1 Which ye take of them for the loan. 5:14 1 I received not that portion and diet, which the governors that

were before me exacted, wherein he declareth that he rather sought the wealth of the people than his own commodity. 5:18 1 Or, once in ten days. 2 Whereas at other times they had by measure, at this time they had most liberally. 6:1 1 That is, that they were joined together, as Neh. 4:6. 6:3 1 Meaning, that if he should obey their request, the work which God had appointed, should cease: showing hereby that we should not commit ourselves to the hands of the wicked. 6:6 1 Or, Geshem. 2 As the same goeth. 6:7 1 Thou hast bribed and set up false prophets, to make thyself king, and so to defraud the king of Persia of that subjection which you owe unto him.

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7 1 After the wall once built, is the watch appointed. 6 They that returned from the captivity are numbered.

counsel together. 8 Then I sent unto him, saying, It is not done according to these words that thou sayest: for thou feignest them of thine own heart. 9 For all they afraid us, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, and it shall not be done: now therefore 1encourage thou me. 10 ¶ And I came to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabel, and he was 1shut up, and he said, Let us come together into the house of God in the midst of the Temple, and shut the doors of the Temple: for they will come to slay thee: yea, in the night will they come to kill thee. 11 Then I said, 1Should such a man as I, flee? Who is he, being as I am, that would go into the Temple to live? I will not go in. 12 And lo, I perceived that God had not sent him, but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. 13 Therefore was he hired, that I might be afraid, and do thus, and sin, and that they might have an evil report, that they might reproach me. 14 My God, remember thou Tobiah, and Sanballat according unto these their works, and Noadiah the 1Prophetess also, and the rest of the prophets that would have put me in fear. 15 ¶ Notwithstanding the wall was finished on the five and twentieth day of 1Elul, in two and 2fifty days. 16 And when all our enemies heard thereof, even all the heathen that were about us, they were afraid, and their courage failed them: for they knew that this work was wrought by our God. 17 And in these days were there many of the princes of Judah, whose 1letters went unto Tobiah, and those of Tobiah came unto them. 18 For there were many in Judah, that were sworn unto him: for he was the son in law of Shechaniah, the son of Arah: and his son Jehohanan had the daughter of Meshullam, the son of Berechiah. 19 Yea, they spake in his praise before me, and told him my words, and Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.

chapter 7

a Ezra 2:2

1 Now when the wall was built, and I had set up the doors, and the porters, and the singers and the Levites were appointed, 2 Then I commanded my brother Hanani and Hananiah, the prince of the palace in Jerusalem (for he was doubtless a faithful man, and feared God above many) 3 And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened, until the heat of the sun: and while 1they stand by, let them shut the doors, and 2make them fast: and I appointed wards of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, everyone in his ward, and everyone over against his house. 4 Now the city was large and great, but the people were few therein, and the houses were not built. 5 And my God put into mine heart, and I gathered the princes, and the rulers, and the people, to count their genealogies: and I found a book of the genealogy of them, awhich came up at the first, and found written therein, 6 These are the 1sons of the province that came up from the captivity that was carried away (whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babel had carried away) and they returned to Jerusalem and to Judah, every one unto his city. 7 They which came with Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, 1Azariah, Raamiah, Nahamani, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispereth, Bigvai, Nehum, Baanah. This is the number of the men of the people of Israel. 8 The sons of Parosh, two thousand an hundred seventy and two. 9 The sons of Shephatiah, three hundred seventy and two. 10 The sons of Arah, six hundred fifty and two. 11 The sons of 1Pahath-Moab of the sons of Jeshua and Joab, two thousand eight hundred and eighteen. 12 The sons of Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four. 13 The sons of Zattu, eight hundred and five and forty. 14 The sons of Zaccai, seven hundred and three-

6:9 1 Hebrew, strengthen thou mine hand. 6:10 1 As though he would be secret, to the intent that he might pray unto God with greater liberty, and receive some revelation, which in him was but hypocrisy. 6:11 1 He doubted not but God was able to preserve him, and knew that if he had obeyed this counsel he should have discouraged all the people: thus God giveth power to his to resist false prophecies, though they seem to have never so great probability. 6:14 1 Very grief caused him to pray against such, which under the pretence of being the ministers of God, were adversaries to his glory, and went about to overthrow his Church, declaring also hereby that where there is one true minister of God, the devil hath a great sort

of hirelings. 6:15 1 Which was the sixth month and contained part of August, and part of September. 2 After that I had sent Sanballat his answer. 6:17 1 Thus the Church of God hath evermore enemies within itself, which are more dangerous than the outward and professed enemy. 7:3 1 To wit, they that are mentioned, verse 2. 2 Hebrew, hold them, meaning, till the bars were put in. 7:6 1 That is, the inhabitants of Judah. 7:7 1 Azariah in Ezra is called Seraiah, and Raamiah, Reelaiah, Ezra 2:2. 7:11 1 Or, the captain of Moab.

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score. 15 The sons of Binnui, six hundred and eight and forty. 16 The sons of Bebai, six hundred and eight and twenty. 17 The sons of Azgad, two thousand three hundred and two and twenty. 18 The sons of Adonikam, six hundred threescore and seven. 19 The sons of Bigvai, two thousand threescore and seven. 20 The sons of Adin, six hundred and five and fifty. 21 The sons of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety and eight. 22 The sons of Hashum, three hundred and eight and twenty. 23 The sons of Bezai, three hundred and four and twenty. 24 The sons of Hariph, an hundred and twelve. 25 The 1sons of Gibeon, ninety and five. 26 The men of Bethlehem and Netophah, an hundred fourscore and eight. 27 The men of Anathoth, an hundred and eight and twenty. 28 The men of Beth Azmaveth, two and forty. 29 The men of Kirjath Jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred and three and forty. 30 The men of Ramah and Geba, six hundred and one and twenty. 31 The men of Michmas, an hundred and two and twenty. 32 The men of Bethel and Ai, an hundred and three and twenty. 33 The men 1of the other Nebo, two and fifty. 34 The sons of the other Elam, a thousand two hundred and four and fifty. 35 The sons of Harim, three hundred and twenty. 36 The sons of Jericho, three hundred and five and forty. 37 The sons of Lod, Hadid and Ono, seven hundred and one and twenty. 38 The sons of Senaah, three thousand nine hundred and thirty. 39 The Priests: the sons of Jedaiah of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred seventy and three. 40 The sons of Immer, a thousand and two and fifty. 41 The sons of Pashur, a thousand two hundred and seven and forty. 42 The sons of Harim, a thousand and seven-

teen. 43 ¶ The Levites: the sons of Jeshua of Kadmiel, and of the sons of 1Hodevah, seventy and four. 44 ¶ The singers: the children of Asaph, an hundred and eight and forty. 45 The porters: the sons of Shallum, the sons of Ater, the sons of Talmon, the sons of Akkub, the sons of Hatita, the sons of Shobai, an hundred and eight and thirty. 46 ¶ The 1Nethinim: the sons of Ziha, the sons of Hasupha, the sons of Tabbaoth, 47 The sons of Keros, the sons of Sia, the sons of Padon, 48 The sons of Lebana, the sons of Hagaba, the sons of Shalmai, 49 The sons of Hanan, the sons of Giddel, the sons of Gahar, 50 The sons of Reaiah, the sons of Rezin, the sons of Nekoda, 51 The sons of Gazzam, the sons of Uzza, the sons of Paseah, 52 The sons of Besai, the sons of Meunim, the sons of Nephishesim, 53 The sons of Bakbuk, the sons of Hakupha, the sons of Harhur, 54 The sons of Bazlith, the sons of Mehida, the sons of Harsha, 55 The sons of Barkos, the sons of Sisera, the sons of Tamah, 56 The sons of Neziah, the sons of Hatipha, 57 The sons of Solomon's servants, the sons of Sotai, the sons of Sophereth, the sons of Perida, 58 The sons of Jaala, the sons of Darkon, the sons of Giddel, 59 The sons of Shephatiah, the sons of Hattil, the sons of Pochereth of Zebaim, the sons of Amon. 60 All the Nethinim, and the sons of Solomon's servants were three hundred, ninety and two. 61 ¶ And these came up from Tel Melah, Tel Harsha, Cherub, Addon, and Immer: but they could not show their father's house, nor their seed, or if they were of Israel. 62 The sons of Delaiah: the sons of Tobiah, the sons of Nekoda, six hundred and two and forty. 63 And of the Priests: the sons of Habaiah, the sons of Koz, the sons of Barzillai, which took one of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite to wife, and was named after their name. 64 These sought their writing of the genealogies, but it was not found: therefore they were put from the Priesthood. 65 And 1the Tirshatha said unto them, that they

7:25 1 That is, the inhabitants of Gibeon. 7:33 1 For there were two cities of this name. 7:43 1 Or, Hodaiah.

7:46 1 Read Ezra 2:43. 7:65 1 Meaning, Nehemiah: for Tirshatha in the Chaldean tongue signifieth a butler.

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should not eat of the most holy, till there rose up a Priest with bUrim and Thummim. 66 All the Congregation together was two and forty thousand, three hundred and threescore, 67 Besides their servants and their maids, which were seven thousand, three hundred and seven and thirty: and they had two hundred and five and forty singing men and singing women. 68 Their horses were seven hundred and six and thirty, and their mules two hundred and five and forty. 69 The camels four hundred and five and thirty, and six thousand seven hundred and twenty asses. 70 And certain of the chief fathers gave unto the work. The Tirshatha gave to the treasure, a thousand 1drams of gold, fifty basins, five hundred and thirty Priest's garments. 71 And some of the chief fathers gave unto the treasure of the work, twenty thousand drams of gold, and two thousand and two hundred 1pieces of silver. 72 And the rest of the people gave twenty thousand drams of gold, and two thousand pieces of silver, and threescore and seven Priest's garments. 73 And the Priests, and the Levites, and the porters and the singers, and the rest of the people and the Nethinim, and all Israel dwelt in their cities: and when the 1seventh month came, the children of Israel were in their cities. 8 2 Ezra gathereth together the people, and readeth to them the Law. 12 They rejoice in Israel for the knowledge of the word of God. 15 They keep the feast of Tabernacles or booths.

wood which he had made for the preaching, and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand, and on his left hand Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchijah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5 And Ezra opened the book before all the people: for he was 1above all the people: and when he opened it, all the people stood up. 6 And Ezra praised the Lord the great God, and all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed themselves, and worshipped the Lord with their faces toward the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites caused the people to understand the Law, and the people stood in their place. 8 And they read in the book of the Law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading. 9 Then Nehemiah (which is Tirshatha) and Ezra the Priest and Scribe, and the Levites that instructed the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the Lord your God: mourn not, neither weep: for all the people 1wept, when they heard the words of the Law. 10 He said also unto them, Go and eat of the fat, and drink the sweet, and send part unto them, for whom none is 1prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: be ye not sorry therefore: for the 2joy of the Lord is your strength. 11 And the Levites made silence throughout all the people, saying, Hold your peace: for the day is holy, be not sad therefore. 12 Then all the people went to eat and to drink, and to send away part, and to make great joy, because they had understood the words that they had taught them. 13 And on the second day the chief fathers of all the people, the Priests and the Levites were gathered unto Ezra the Scribe, that he also might instruct them in the words of the Law. 14 And they found written in the Law, (that the Lord had commanded Moses) that the children of Israel should dwell in abooths in the feast of the seventh month,

b Exod. 28:30

chapter 8

a Lev. 23:24

1 And all the people assembled themselves 1together, in the street that was before the water gate, and they spake unto Ezra the 2Scribe, that he would bring the book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel. 2 And Ezra the Priest brought the Law before the Congregation both of men and women, and of all 1that could hear and understand it, in the first day of the seventh month, 3 And he read therein in the street that was before the water gate (from the morning until 1the midday) before men and women, and them that understood it, and the ears of all the people hearkened unto the book of the Law. 4 And Ezra the Scribe stood upon a pulpit of

7:70 1 Read Ezra 2:69. 7:71 1 Or, minas. 7:73 1 Which containeth part of September and part of October. 8:1 1 Hebrew, as one man. 2 Read Ezra 7:6. 8:2 1 Which had age and discretion to understand. 8:3 1 This declareth the great zeal, that the people had to hear the

word of God. 8:5 1 To the intent that his voice might be the better heard. 8:9 1 In considering their offences against the Law. Therefore the Levites do not reprove them for mourning, but assure them of God's mercies forasmuch as they are repentant. 8:10 1 That is, remember the poor. 2 Rejoice in the Lord, and he will give you strength.

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15 And that they should cause it to be declared and proclaimed in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and bring olive branches, and pine branches, and branches of 1myrtle, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written. 16 So the people went forth and brought them, and made them booths, every one upon the 1roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street by the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim. 17 And all the Congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity, made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the 1time of Jeshua the son of Nun unto this day, had not the children of Israel done so, and there was very great joy. 18 And he read in the book of the Law of God every day, from the first day unto the last day. And they kept the feast seven days, and on the eighth day a solemn assembly, according unto the manner. 9 The people repent, and forsake their strange wives. 5 The Levites exhort them to praise God, 6 Declaring his wonders, 26 And their ingratitude, 30 And God's great mercies toward them.

Abram, and broughtest him out of aUr in Chaldeans, and bmadest his name Abraham, 8 And foundest his heart faithful before thee, cand madest a Covenant with him, to give unto his seed the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, and Perizzites, and Jebusites, and Girgashites, and hast performed thy words, because thou art just. 9 dThou hast also considered the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heard their cry by the red Sea, 10 And showed tokens and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly against them: therefore thou madest thee a Name, as appeareth this day. 11 eFor thou didst break up the Sea before them, and they went through the midst of the sea on dry land: and those that pursued them, hast thou cast into the bottoms as a stone, in the mighty waters: 12 And fleddest them in the day with a pillar of a cloud, and in the night with a pillar of fire to give them light in the way that they went. 13 gThou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest unto them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, ordinances and good Commandments, 14 And declaredst unto them thine holy Sabbath, and commandedst them precepts, and ordinances, and laws, by the hand of Moses thy servant: 15 hAnd gavest them bread from heaven for their hunger, iand broughtest forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst: and jpromisedst them that they should go in, and take possession of the land: for the which thou hadst lifted up thine hand for to give them. 16 But they and our fathers behaved themselves proudly and hardened their neck, so that they hearkened not unto thy Commandments, 17 But refused to obey, and would not remember thy marvelous works that thou hadst done for them, but hardened their necks, and had in their heads to return to their bondage by their rebellion: but thou, O God of mercies, gracious and full of compassion, of long-suffering, and of great mercy, yet forsookest them not. 18 Moreover, when they made them a molten calf (and said, This is thy God that brought thee up out of the land of Egypt) and committed great blasphemies, 19 Yet thou for thy great mercies forsookest them not in the wilderness: kthe pillar of the cloud departed not from them by day to lead them the way, neither

chapter 9

a Gen. 11:31

b Gen. 17:5

c Gen. 15:18

d Exod. 2:76

Exod. 14:16

e Exod. 14:10

f Exod. 13:10

g Exod. 19:18,20

Exod. 20:1

h Exod. 16:18

i Exod. 17:6

j Deut. 1:8

k Exod. 13:22

Num. 14:14

1 Cor. 10:1

1 In the four and twentieth day of this 1month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackcloth, and earth upon them. 2 (And they that were of the seed of Israel were separated from all the 1strangers) and they stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. 3 And they stood up in their place and read in the book of the Law of the Lord their God four times on the day, and they 1confessed and worshipped the Lord their God four times. 4 Then stood up upon the stairs of the Levites, Jeshua, and Bani, Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani, and Chenani, and cried with a loud voice unto the Lord their God. 5 And the Levites said, even Jeshua and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah and Pethahiah, Stand up and praise the Lord your God forever and ever, and let them praise thy glorious Name, O God, which excelleth above all thanksgiving and praise. 6 Thou art Lord alone: thou hast made heaven, and the heaven of all heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that are in them and thou preservest them all and the host of the heaven worshippeth thee. 7 Thou art, O Lord, the God, that hast chosen

8:15 1 Or, goodly branches, as Lev. 3:40. 8:16 1 For their houses were made flat above, read Deut. 22:8. 8:17 1 Which was almost a thousand years.

9:1 1 Meaning, the seventh. 9:2 1 Hebrew, strange children. 9:3 1 They made confession of their sins, and used prayers.

497 nehemiah 10:1

the pillar of fire by night, to show them light, and the way whereby they should go. 20 Thou gavest also thy good Spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not thy Manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst. 21 Thou didst also feed them forty years in the wilderness: they lacked nothing: ltheir clothes waxed not old, and their feet 1swelled not. 22 And thou gavest them kingdoms and people, and 1scatteredst them into corners: so they possessed mthe land of Sihon, and the land of the king of Heshbon, and the land of Og king of Bashan. 23 And thou didst multiply their children like the stars of the heaven, and broughtest them into the land, whereof thou hadst spoken unto their fathers, that they should go, and possess it. 24 So the children went in, and possessed the land, and thou subduedst before them the inhabitants of the land, even the Canaanites, and gavest them into their hands, with their kings and the people of the land, that they might do with them what they would. 25 And they took their strong cities and the fat land, and possessed houses full of all goods, cisterns dug out, vineyards and olives, and trees for food in abundance, and they did eat, and were filled, and became fat, and lived in pleasure through thy great goodness. 26 Yet they were disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast thy Law behind their backs, and slew thy Prophets (which 1protested among them to turn them unto thee) and committed great blasphemies. 27 Therefore thou deliveredst them into the hand of their enemies that vexed them: yet in the time of their affliction, when they cried unto thee, thou heardest them from the heaven, and through thy great mercies thou gavest them saviors, who saved them out of the hand of their adversaries. 28 But when they had 1rest, they returned to do evil before thee: therefore leftest thou them in the hand of their enemies, so that they had the dominion over them, yet when they converted and cried unto thee, thou heardest them from heaven, and deliveredst them according to thy great mercies many times, 29 And protestedst among them, that thou mightest bring them again unto thy Law: but they behaved themselves proudly, and hearkened not unto thy commandments, but sinned against thy judgments

(nwhich a man should do and live in them) and 1pulled away the shoulder, and were stiff-necked, and would not 2hear. 30 Yet thou 1didst forbear them many years, and protestedst among them by thy Spirit, even by the hand of thy Prophets, but they would not hear: therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands. 31 Yet for thy great mercies thou hast not consumed them, neither forsaken them: for thou art a gracious and merciful God. 32 Now therefore our God, othou great God, mighty and terrible, that keepest covenant and pmercy, let not all the affliction that hath come unto us, seem a little before thee, that is, to our Kings, to our Princes, and to our Priests, and to our Prophets, and to our fathers, and to all thy people since the time of the 1kings of Assyria unto this day. 33 Surely thou art just in all that is come upon us: for thou hast 1dealt truly, but we have done wickedly. 34 And our kings and our princes, our priests and our fathers have not done thy Law, nor regarded thy commandments, nor thy protestations, wherewith thou hast 1protested among them. 35 And they have not served thee in their kingdom, and in thy great goodness that thou showedst unto them, and in the large and fat land which thou didst set before them, and have not converted from their evil works. 36 Behold, we are servants this day, and the land that thou gavest unto our fathers, to eat the 1fruit thereof, and the goodness thereof, behold, we are servants therein. 37 And it yieldeth much fruit unto the kings whom thou hast set over us, because of our sins: and they have dominion over our bodies, and over our cattle at their pleasure, and we are in great affliction. 38 Now because of all this we make 1a sure covenant, and write it, and our princes, our Levites, and our Priests seal unto it. 10 1 The names of them that sealed the covenant between God and the people.

l Deut. 8:4

m Num. 21:26

n Lev. 18:5 Ezek. 20:11

Rom. 10:5

Gal. 3:12

o Exod. 34:6,7

p Ps. 143:1,2

1 Now they that sealed, were Nehemiah the 1Tirshatha the son of Hachaliah, and Zidkijah,

9:21 1 Though the way was tedious and long. 9:22 1 Meaning, the heathen whom he drove out. 9:26 1 Taking heaven and earth to witness, that God would destroy them, except they returned, as 2 Chron. 24:19. 9:28 1 He declareth how God's mercies ever contended with the wickedness of the people, who ever in their prosperity forgat God. 9:29 1 Which is a similitude taken of oxen that shrink at the yoke or burden, as Zech. 7:11. 2 When thou didst admonish them by thy Prophets. 9:30 1 Hebrew, thou didst prolong upon them many years.

9:32 1 By whom we were led away into captivity, and have been appointed to be slain, as Esther 3:13. 9:33 1 He confesseth that all these things came to them justly for their sins, but he appealeth from God's justice to his mercies. 9:34 1 That thou wouldest destroy them, except they would return to thee, as verse 26. 9:36 1 That is, to be the Lord's therof. 9:38 1 Thus by affliction they promise to keep God's commandments, whereunto they could not be brought by God's great benefits. 10:1 1 Or, butler.

Nehemiah 10:2 498

2 Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah, 3 Pashur, Amariah, Malchijah, 4 Hattush, Shebaniah, Malluch, 5 Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah, 6 Daniel, Ginnethon, Baruch, 7 Meshullam, Abijah, Mijamin, 8 Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah: these are 1the Priests. 9 ¶ And the Levites: Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui, of the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel. 10 And their brethren, Shebaniah, Hodijah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanun, 11 Micha, Rehob, Hashabiah, 12 Zaccur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah, 13 Hodijah, Bani, Beninu. 14 ¶ The chief of the people were Parosh, 1PahathMoab, Elam, Zattu, Bani, 15 Bunni, Azgad, Bebai, 16 Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin, 17 Ater, Hezekiah, Azzur, 18 Hodijah, Hashum, Bezai, 19 Hariph, Anathoth, Nebai, 20 Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir, 21 Meshezabeel, Zadok, Jaddua, 22 Pelatiah, Hanan, Anaiah, 23 Hoshea, Hananiah, Hashub, 24 Hallohesh, Pileha, Shobek, 25 Rehum, Hashabnah, Maaseiah, 26 And Ahijah, Hanan, Anan, 27 Malluch, Harim, Baanah. 28 And the rest of the people, the Priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the 1Nethinim, and all that were 2separated from the people of the lands unto the Law of God, their wives, their sons and their daughters, all that could understand. 29 The chief of them 1received it for their brethren, and they came to the 2curse and to the oath to walk in God's Law, which was given by Moses the servant of God, to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord our God, and his judgments and his statutes: 30 And that we would not give our daughters to the people of the land, neither take their daughters for our sons. 31 And if the people of the land brought ware on

the Sabbath, or any vittles to sell, 1that we would not take it of them on the Sabbath, and on the holy days: aand that we would let the seventh year be free, and the debts of every 2person. 32 And we made statutes for ourselves to give by the year, the third part of a shekel for the service of the house of our God, 33 For the 1showbread, and for the daily offering, and for the daily burnt offering, the Sabbaths, the new moons, for the solemn feasts, and for the things that were sanctified, and for the sin offerings, to make an atonement for Israel, and for all the work of the house of our God. 34 We cast also lots for the offering of the wood, even the Priests, the Levites, and the people, to bring it into the house of our God, 1by the house of our fathers, yearly at the times appointed, to burn it upon the Altar of the Lord our God, as it is written in the Law, 35 And to bring the firstfruits of our land, and the first of all the fruits of all trees, year by year, into the house of the Lord, 36 And the firstborn of our sons, and of our cattle, as it is 1written in the Law, and the firstborn of our bullocks, and of our sheep, to bring it into the house of our God, unto the Priests that minister in the house of our God, 37 And that we should bring the firstfruit of our dough, and our offerings, and the fruit of every tree, of wine and of oil, unto the Priests, to the chambers of the house of our God: and the tithes of our land unto the Levites, that the Levites might have the tithes in all the cities of our 1travail. 38 And the Priest, the son of Aaron shall be with the Levites, when the Levites take tithes, and the Levites shall bbring up the tenth part of the tithes unto the house of our God, unto the chambers of the treasure house. 39 For the children of Israel, and the children of Levi shall bring up the offering of the corn, of the wine, and of the oil, unto the chambers: and there shall be the vessels of the Sanctuary, and the Priests that minister, and the porters, and the singers, and 1we will not forsake the house of our God.

chapter 10

a Lev. 25:4

Deut. 15:1

b Num. 18:26

10:8 1 Which subscribed to keep the promise. 10:14 1 Or, captain of Moab. 10:28 1 Read Ezra 2:43. 2 Which being idolaters forsook their wickedness, and gave them­ selves to serve God. 10:29 1 They made the oath in the name of the whole multitude. 2 Whereunto they gave themselves if they brake the Law, as Deut. 28:15. 10:31 1 Which notwithstanding they brake soon after, as Neh. 13:15. 2 Hebrew, hand. 10:33 1 This declareth wherefore they gave this third part of the

shekel, which was besides the half shekel that they were bound to pay, Exod. 30:13. 10:34 1 Or, into the house of. 10:36 1 By this rehearsal is meant that there was no part nor cer­ emony in the Law, whereunto they did not bind themselves by covenant. 10:37 1 Wheresoever we labored, or travailed, there the tithes were due unto the Lord both by the Law, and according to the oath and covenant that we made. 10:39 1 We will not leave it destitute of that that shall be necessary for it.

499 nehemiah 11:30 11 1 Who dwelled in Jerusalem after it was built, 20 and who in the cities of Judah.

and eight and twenty: and their overseer was Zabdiel the son 1of Haggedolim. 15 And of the Levites, Shemaiah, the son of Hashub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Bunni. 16 And Shabbethai, and Jozabad of the chief of the Levites were over the works of the house of God without. 17 And Mattaniah, the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph was the chief to 1begin the thanksgiving and prayer: and Bakbukiah the second of his brethren, and Abda, the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun. 18 All the Levites in the holy city were two hundred fourscore and four. 19 And the porters Akkub, Talmon, and their brethren that kept the 1gates, were an hundred twenty and two. 20 And the 1residue of Israel, of the Priests, and of the Levites dwelt in all the cities of Judah, everyone in his inheritance. 21 And the Nethinim dwelt in the 1fortress, and Ziha, and Gispa was over the Nethinim. 22 And the overseer of the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Micha: of the sons of Asaph singers were over the work of the house of God. 23 For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that faithful provision should be for the singers every day. 24 And Pethahiah the son of Meshezabel, of the sons of Zerah, the son of Judah 1was at the king's hand in all matters concerning the people. 25 And in the villages in their lands, some of the children of Judah dwelt in Kirjath Arba, and in the villages thereof, and in Dibon, and in the villages thereof, and in Jekabzeel, and in the villages thereof, 26 And in Jeshua, and in Moladah, and in Beth Pelet, 27 And in Hazar Shual, and in Beersheba, and in the villages thereof, 28 And in Ziklag, and in Mekonah, and in the villages thereof, 29 And in En Rimmon, and in Zorah, and in Jarmuth, 30 Zanoah, Adullam, and in their villages, in Lachish, and in the fields thereof, at Azekah, and in the villages thereof: and they dwelt from Beersheba,

1 And the rulers of the people dwelt in Jerusalem: the other people also cast lots, 1to bring one out of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to be in the cities. 2 And the people thanked all the men that were willing to dwell in Jerusalem. 3 These now are the chief of the province, that dwelt in Jerusalem, but in the cities of Judah, everyone dwelt in his own possession in their cities of Israel, the Priests and the Levites, and the Nethinim, and the sons of Solomon's servants. 4 And in Jerusalem dwelt certain of the children of Judah, and of the children of Benjamin: Of the sons of Judah, Athaiah, the son of Uziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel, of the sons of 1Perez, 5 And Maaseiah the son of Baruch, the son of Col-Hozeh, the son of Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah, the son of 1Shiloni. 6 All the sons of Perez that dwelt at Jerusalem, were four hundred threescore and eight valiant men. 7 These also are the sons of Benjamin, Sallu, the son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel, the son of Jeshaiah. 8 And after him Gabbai, Sallai, nine hundred and twenty and eight. 9 And Joel the son of Zichri was governor over them: and Judah the son of Senuah was the second over the city: 10 Of the Priests, Jedaiah, the son of Joiarib, Jachin. 11 Seraiah, the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, 1was chief of the house of God. 12 And their brethren 1that did the work in the Temple, were eight hundred, twenty and two: and Adaiah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah, the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah: 13 And his brethren, chief of the fathers, two hundred and two and forty: and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahazai, the son of Meshilemoth, the son of Immer: 14 And their brethren valiant men, an hundred

11:1 1 Because their enemies dwelt round about them, they provided that it might be replenished with men, and used this policy, because there were few that offered themselves will­ ingly. 11:4 1 Which came of Perez the son of Judah. 11:5 1 Or, of a Shilonite. 11:11 1 That is, was the high Priest.

11:12 1 That served and ministered in the Temple. 11:14 1 Or, of one of the great men. 11:17 1 That is, he began the Psalm, and was the chanter. 11:19 1 Meaning, of the Temple. 11:20 1 Of them, which dwelt not in Jerusalem. 11:21 1 Or, Ophel. 11:24 1 Was chief about the king for all his affairs.

Nehemiah 11:31 500

unto the valley of Hinnom. 31 And the sons of Benjamin from Geba, in Michmash, and Aija, and Bethel, and in the villages thereof, 32 And Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah, 33 Hazor, Ramah, Gittaim, 34 Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat, 35 Lod and Ono, in the carpenters valley. 36 And of the Levites were divisions in Judah and in Benjamin. 12 1 The Priests and Levites which came with Zerubbabel unto Jerusalem, are numbered, 27 and the wall is dedicated.

Jehonathan, 19 Under Joiarib, Mattenai, under Jedaiah, Uzzi, 20 Under Sallai, Kallai, under Amok, Eber, 21 Under Hilkiah, Hashabiah, under Jedaiah, Nethanel. 22 In the days of Eliashib, Joiada, and Johanan and Jaddua were the chief fathers of the Levites written, and the Priests in the reign of Darius the Persian. 23 The sons of Levi, the chief fathers were written in the book of the Chronicles even unto the days of Johanan the son of Eliashib. 24 And the chief of the Levites were Hashabiah, Sherebiah, and Jeshua the son of Kadmiel, and their brethren about them to give praise and thanks, according to the ordinances of David the man of God, ward over 1against ward. 25 Mattaniah and Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon and Akkub were porters keeping the ward at the thresholds of the gates. 26 These were in the days of Joiakim the son of Jeshua, the son of Jozadak, and in the days of Nehemiah the captain, and of Ezra the Priest and Scribe. 27 And in the dedication of the wall at Jerusalem, they sought the Levites out of all their places to bring them to Jerusalem to keep the dedication and gladness, both with thanksgivings and with songs, cymbals, viols, and with harps. 28 Then the 1singers gathered themselves together both from the plain country about Jerusalem, and from the villages of 2Netophathi, 29 And from the house of Gilgal, and out of the countries of Geba, and Azmaveth: for the singers had built them villages round about Jerusalem. 30 And the Priests and Levites were purified, and cleansed the people, and the gates, and the wall. 31 And 1I brought up the princes of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two great companies to give thanks, and the one went on the right hand of the wall toward the dung gate. 32 And after them went Hoshaiah, and half of the princes of Judah, 33 And Azariah, Ezra and Meshullam, 34 Judah, Benjamin, and Shemaiah, and Jeremiah, 35 And of the Priest's sons with trumpets, Zechariah, the son of Jonathan, the son of Shemaiah, the

1 These also are the Priests and the Levites that 1went up with Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua: to wit, Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra, 2 Amariah, Malluch, Hattush, 3 Shecaniah, Rehum, Meremoth, 4 Iddo, Ginnethoi, Abijah, 5 Mijamin, Maadiah, Bilgah, 6 Shemaiah, and Joiarib, Jedaiah, 7 Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, Jedaiah: these were the 1chief of the Priests, and of their brethren in the days of Jeshua. 8 And the Levites, Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, Mattaniah 1were over the thanksgivings, he, and his brethren. 9 And Bakbukiah and Unni, and their brethren were about them in the 1watches. 10 And Jeshua begat Joiakim: Joiakim also begat Eliashib, and Eliashib begat Joiada. 11 And Joiada begat Jonathan, and Jonathan begat Jaddua, 12 And in the days of Joiakim were these the chief fathers of the Priests: under 1Seraiah was Meraiah, under Jeremiah, Hananiah, 13 Under Ezra, Meshullam, under Amariah, Jehohanan, 14 Under Melichu, Jonathan, under Shebaniah, Joseph, 15 Under Harim, Adna, under Maraioth, Helkai, 16 Under Iddo, Zechariah, under Ginnethon, Meshullam, 17 Under 1Abijah, Zichri, under Minjamin, and under Moadiah, Piltai, 18 Under Bilgah, Shammua, under Shemaiah,

12:1 1 From Babylon to Jerusalem. 12:7 1 Next in dignity to the high Priests, and which were of the stock of Aaron. 12:8 1 Had charge of them that sang the Psalms. 12:9 1 They kept the wards and watches according to their turns, as 2 Chron. 23:6. 12:12 1 That is, next to Seraiah, or rather of the order, which was

called after the name of Seraiah. 12:17 1 Whereof was Zacharias, John Baptist's father. 12:24 1 That is, one after another, and every one in his course. 12:28 1 Hebrew, the sons of the singers. 2 Which were a certain family, and had their possessions in the fields, 1 Chron. 2:54. 12:31 1 Meaning, Nehemiah.

501 nehemiah 13:11

son of Mattaniah, the son of Michaiah, the son of Zaccur, the son of Asaph. 36 And 1his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarel, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethanel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God: and Ezra the Scribe went before them. 37 And to the gate of the fountain, even over against them went they up by the 1stairs of the city of David, at the going up of the wall beyond the house of David, even unto the water gate Eastward. 38 And the second company of them that gave thanks, went on the other side, and I after them, and the half of the people was upon the wall, and upon the tower of the furnaces even unto the broad wall. 39 And upon the gate of Ephraim, and upon the old gate, and upon the fish gate, and the tower of Hananel, and the tower of Meah, even unto the sheep gate: and they stood in the gate of the ward. 40 So stood the two companies (of them that gave thanks) in the house of God, and I and the half of the rulers with me. 41 The Priests also, Eliakim, Maaseiah, Minjamin, Michaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah, Hananiah, with trumpets, 42 And Maaseiah, and Shemaiah, and Eleazar, and Uzzi, and Jehohanan, and Malchijah, and Elam, and Ezer: and the singers 1sang loud, having Jezrahiah which was the overseer. 43 And the same day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced: for God had given them great joy, so that both the women, and the children were joyful: and the joy of Jerusalem was heard far off. 44 Also at the same time were men appointed 1over the chambers of the store for the offerings, (for the firstfruits, and for the tithes) to gather into them out of the fields of the cities, the portions of the Law for the Priests, and the Levites, for Judah rejoiced for the Priests and for the Levites, that served. 45 And both the singers and the Levites kept the ward of their God, and the ward of the purification according to the commandment of David, and Solomon his son. 46 aFor in the days of David and Asaph, of old were chief singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God. 47 And in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days

of Nehemiah did all Israel give portions unto the singers and porters, every day his portion, and they gave the holy things unto the Levites, and the Levites 1gave the holy things unto the sons of Aaron. 13 1 The Law is read. 3 They separate from them all strangers. 15 Nehemiah reproveth them that break the Sabbath. 30 An ordinance to serve God.

chapter 12

a 1 Chron. 15:16

chapter 13

a Deut. 23:3

b Num. 22:5,6

1 And on that day they did read in the book of Moses, in the audience of the people, and it was found written therein, that the Ammonite, and the Moabite ashould not enter into the Congregation of God, 2 Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, bbut hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: and our God turned the curse into a blessing. 3 Now when they had heard the Law, they separated from Israel 1all those that were mixed. 4 ¶ And before 1this had the Priest Eliashib the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, being 2kinsman to Tobiah: 5 And he had made him a great chamber, and there had they aforetime laid the offerings, the incense, and the vessels, and the tithes of corn, of wine, and of oil (appointed for the Levites, and the singers, and the porters) and the offerings of the Priests. 6 But in all this time was not I in Jerusalem: for in the two and thirtieth year of 1Artachshashta King of Babel, came I unto the King, and 2after certain days I obtained of the King. 7 And when I was come to Jerusalem, I understood 1the evil that Eliashib had done for Tobiah, in that he had made him a chamber in the court of the house of God, 8 And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the vessels of the house of Tobiah out of the chamber. 9 And I commanded them to cleanse the chambers: and thither brought I again the vessels of the house of God with the meat offering and the incense. 10 And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given, and that everyone was fled to his land, even the Levites and singers that executed the work. 11 Then reproved I the rulers and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I assembled them, and set them in their place.

12:36 1 That is, the brethren of Zaccur. 12:37 1 Which was the going up to the mount Zion, which is called the city of David. 12:42 1 Hebrew, caused to hear. 12:44 1 Which were chambers appointed by Hezekiah to put in the tithes, and such things, 2 Chron. 31:11 and now were repaired again for the same use. 12:47 1 That is, the tenth part of the tithes. 13:3 1 That is, all such which had joined in unlawful marriage, and also those with whom God had forbidden them to have

society. 13:4 1 That the separation was made. 2 He was joined in affinity with Tobiah the Ammonite and enemy of the Jews. 13:6 1 Called also Darius, Ezra 7:1. 2 Or, at the year's end. 13:7 1 Thus we see to what inconveniences the people fall into, when they are destitute of one that hath the fear of God, seeing that their chief governor was but a while absent, and yet they fell into such great absurdities: as appeareth also, Exod. 32:1.

Nehemiah 13:12 502

12 Then brought all Judah the tithes of corn and of wine, and of oil unto the treasures. 13 And I made treasurers over the treasures, Shel­ emiah the Priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah, and under their hand Hanan the son of Zaccur the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office was to distribute unto their brethren. 14 Remember me, O my God, herein, and wipe not out my 1kindness that I have showed on the house of my God, and on the offices thereof. 15 In those days saw I in Judah them, that trod wine presses on the Sabbath, and that brought in sheaves, and which laded asses also with wine, grapes, and figs, and all burdens, and brought them into Jerusalem upon the Sabbath day: and 1I protested to them in the day that they sold vittles. 16 There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish and all wares, and sold on the Sabbath unto the children of Judah even in Jerusalem. 17 Then reproved I the rulers of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and break the Sabbath day? 18 Did not your fathers 1thus, and our God brought all this plague upon us, and upon this city? yet ye increase the wrath upon Israel, in breaking the Sabbath. 19 And when the gates of Jerusalem began to be 1dark before the Sabbath, I commanded to shut the gates, and charged, that they should not be opened till after the Sabbath, and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the Sabbath day. 20 So the chapmen and merchants of all merchandise remained once or twice all night without Jerusalem. 21 And I protested among them, and said unto them, Why tarry ye all night about the wall? If ye

do it once again, I will lay hands upon you. From that time came they no more on the Sabbath. 22 ¶ And I said unto the Levites, that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and 1keep the gates, to sanctify the Sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and pardon me according to thy great mercy. 23 In those days also I saw Jews that married wives of 1Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab. 24 And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not speak in the Jews' language, and according to the language of the one people, and of the other people. 25 Then I reproved them, and 1cursed them, and smote certain of them, and pulled off their hair, and took an oath of them by God, Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, neither shall ye take of their daughters unto your sons nor for yourselves. 26 cDid not Solomon the king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no King like him: for he was dbeloved of his God, and God had made him King over Israel: eyet strange women caused him to sin. 27 Shall we then obey unto you, to do all this great evil, and to transgress against our God, even to marry strange wives? 28 And one of the sons of Joiada the son of Eliashib the high Priest was the son-in-law of Sanballat the Horonite: but I chased him from me. 29 Remember them, O my God, that 1defile the Priesthood, and the covenant of the Priesthood, and of the Levites. 30 Then cleansed I them from all strangers, and appointed the wards of the Priests and of the Levites, every one in his office, 31 And for the offering of the wood at times appointed, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, 1in goodness.

c 2 Kings 3:7,12

d 2 Sam. 12:24,25

e 1 Kings 11:1,4

13:14 1 He protesteth that he did his duty with a good conscience, yet he doth not justify himself in therein, but desireth God to favor him and to be merciful unto him for his own goodness sake, as verse 22 and 31. 13:15 1 I declared unto them, that God would not suffer such trans­ gressors of his Law to be unpunished. 13:18 1 Was not this a great cause, why God plagued us in times past: meaning, that if they transgressed now in the same again, their plague should be greater. 13:19 1 About the time that the Sun went down: for the Sabbath lasted

from the Sun going down of the one day, to the Sun setting of the other. 13:22 1 Meaning, of the Temple, that none that was unclean, should enter. 13:23 1 Which was a city of the Philistines, and they had married wives thereof, and so had corrupted their speech and Religion. 13:25 1 That is, I did excommunicate them, and drive them out of the congregation. 13:29 1 Punish them according to their fault and evil example, which they have given to the rest of thy people contrary to their vocation. 13:31 1 That is, to show mercy unto me.

E s t h e r

1 3 King Ahasuerus maketh a royal feast. 12 Whereunto the Queen Vashti will not come. 19 For which cause she is divorced. 20 The King's decree touching the pre-eminence of man.

merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven eunuchs, (that served in the presence of king Ahasuerus) 11 To bring Queen Vashti before the king with the crown royal, that he might show the people and the princes her beauty: for she was fair to look upon. 12 But the Queen Vashti refused to come at the king's word, 1which he had given in charge to the eunuchs: therefore the King was very angry, and his wrath kindled in him. 13 Then the King said to the wise men, 1that knew the times (for so was the King's manner towards all that knew the law and the judgment: 14 And the next unto him was Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan the seven Princes of Persia, and Media, which saw the 1King's face, and sat the first in the kingdom.) 15 What shall we do unto the Queen Vashti according to the law, because she did not according to the word of the King Ahasuerus by the commission of the eunuchs? 16 Then Memucan answered before the king and the Princes, The Queen Vashti hath not only done 1evil against the King, but against all the Princes, and against all the people that are in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus. 17 For the 1act of the Queen shall come abroad unto all women, so that they shall despise their husbands in their own eyes, and shall say, The King Ahasuerus commanded Vashti the Queen to be brought in before him, but she came not. 18 So shall the 1Princesses of Persia and Media this day say unto all the King's Princes, when they hear of the act of the Queen: thus shall there be much despitefulness and wrath. 19 If it please the King, let a royal decree proceed

chapter 1

a Neh. 1:1

1 In the days of 1Ahasuerus (this is Ahasuerus that reigned from India even unto Ethiopia, over an 2hundred, and seven and twenty provinces.) 2 In those days when the king Ahasuerus 1sat on his throne, which was in the palace of aShushan, 3 In the third year of his reign, he made a feast unto all his princes and his servants, even the power of Persia and Media, and to the captains and governors of the provinces which were before him, 4 That he might show the riches and glory of his kingdom, and the honor of his great majesty many days, even an hundred and fourscore days. 5 And when these days were expired, the king made a feast to all the people that were found in the palace of Shushan, both unto great and small, seven days, in the court of the garden of the king's palace, 6 Under an hanging of white, green, and blue cloths, fastened with cords of fine linen and purple, in silver rings, and pillars of marble: the 1beds were of gold and of silver upon a pavement of porphyry, and marble and alabaster, and blue color. 7 And they gave them drink in vessels of gold, and changed vessel after vessel, and royal wine in abundance, according to the 1power of the king. 8 And the drinking was by an order, none might 1compel: for so the king had appointed unto all the officers of his house, that they should do according to every man's pleasure. 9 ¶ The Queen Vashti made a feast also for the women in the royal house of King Ahasuerus. 10 Upon the 1seventh day when the King was

1:1 1 Called also Darius, who was now the sovereign Monarch and had the government of the Medes, Persians, and Chaldeans, some think he was Darius Hystaspis' son called also Artaxerxes. 2 Dan. 6:1, maketh mention but of sixscore, leaving out the num­ ber that is unprecise as the Scripture in divers places useth. 1:2 1 That is, had rest and quietness. 1:6 1 Which they used in those countries instead of tables. 1:7 1 As was beseeming for so magnificent a king. 1:8 1 None might be compelled to drink more than it pleased him. 1:10 1 Which was the last day of the feast that the king made for the people, as verse 5.

1:12 1 Hebrew, which was in the hand of the eunuchs. 1:13 1 That had experience of things as they had learned by diligent marking in continuance of time. 1:14 1 Which were his chief counselors, that might have always access to him. 1:16 1 By her disobedience she hath given an example to all women to do the like to their husbands. 1:17 1 That is, her disobedience. 1:18 1 Meaning, that they would take first occasion thereof to do the like, and that the rest of women would by continuance do the same.

Esther 1:20 504

from him, and let it be written among the statutes of Persia and Media, (and let it not be transgressed) that Vashti come 1no more before king Ahasuerus: and let the king give her royal estate unto her companion that is better than she. 20 And when the decree of the King which shall be made, shall be published throughout all his kingdom (though it be 1great) all the women shall give their husbands honor, both great and small. 21 And this saying pleased the King and the Princes, and the King did according to the word of Memucan. 22 For he sent letters into all the provinces of the King, into every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language, that every man should 1bear rule in his own house, and that he should publish it in the language of that same people. 2 2 After the Queen is put away, certain young maids are brought to the king. 17 Esther pleaseth the King, and is made Queen. 22 Mordecai discloseth unto the king those that would betray him.

7 And he nourished Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful to look on: and after the death of her father, and her mother, Mordecai took her for his own daughter. 8 And when the king's commandment, and his decree was published, and many maids were brought together to the palace of Shushan, under the hand of Hegai, Esther was brought also unto the King's house under the hand of Hegai the keeper of the women. 9 And the maid pleased him, and she found favor in his sight, therefore he caused her things for purification to be given her speedily, and her 1state, and seven comely maids to be given her out of the King's house, and he gave change to her and to her maids of the best in the house of the women. 10 But Esther showed not her people and her kindred: for Mordecai had charged her that she should not tell it. 11 And Mordecai walked 1every day before the court of the women's house, to know if Esther did well, and what should be done with her. 12 And when the course of every maid came, to go in to King Ahasuerus, after that she had been twelve months according to the manner of the women (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odors and in the purifying of the women: 13 And thus went the maids unto the King) whatsoever she required, was 1given her to go with her out of the women's house unto the king's house. 14 In the evening she went, and on the morrow she returned into the second house of the women under the hand of Shaashgaz the King's eunuch, which kept the concubines: she came in to the King no more, except she pleased the King, and that she were called by name. 15 Now when the course of Esther the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai (which had taken her as his own daughter) came, that she should go in to the king, she desired nothing, but what 1Hege the king's eunuch the keeper of the women 2said: and Esther found favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her.

chapter 2

a 2 Kings 14:15

1 After these things, when the wrath of King Ahas­ uerus was appeased, he 1remembered Vashti, and what she had done, and what was decreed 2against her. 2 And the King's servants that ministered unto him, said, Let them seek for the King beautiful young virgins, 3 And let the King appoint officers through all the provinces of his Kingdom, and let them gather all the beautiful young virgins unto the palace of Shushan, into the house of the women, under the hand of Hegai the King's eunuch, 1keeper of the women, to give them their things 2for purification. 4 And the maid that shall please the King, let her reign in the stead of Vashti. And this pleased the king, and he did so. 5 ¶ In the city of Shushan there was a certain Jew, whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish a man of Benjamin, 6 Which had been carried away from Jerusalem awith the captivity that was carried away with Jeconiah King of Judah (whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babel had carried away.)

1:19 1 Let her be divorced, and another made Queen. 1:20 1 For he had under him an hundred twenty and seven countries. 1:22 1 That is, that the wife should be subject to the husband and at his commandment. 2:1 1 That is, he called the matter again into communication. 2 By the seven wise men of his counsel. 2:3 1 The abuse of these countries was so great, that they invented many means to serve the lusts of Princes, and therefore as they ordained wicked laws, that the king might have whose daughters he would, so they had divers houses appointed, as one for them while they were virgins, another when they were concubines and for the

Queens another. 2 Read what this purification was, verse 12. 2:9 1 Hebrew, portions. 2:11 1 For though she was taken away by a cruel law, yet he ceased not to have a fatherly care over her, and therefore did resort ofttimes to hear of her. 2:13 1 What apparel she asked of the eunuch, that was he bound to give her. 2:15 1 Or, Hegai. 2 Wherein her modesty appeared, because she sought not apparel to commend her beauty, but stood to the Eunuch's appointment.

505 Esther 3:13

16 ¶ So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month, which is the 1month Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign. 17 And the King loved Esther above all the women, and she found grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins: so that he set the crown of the kingdom upon her head, and made her Queen instead of Vashti. 18 Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes, and his servants, which was 1the feast of Esther, and gave rest 2unto the provinces, and gifts, according to the 3power of a king. 19 And when the virgins were gathered the 1second time, then Mordecai sat in the king's gate. 20 Esther had not yet showed her kindred nor her people, as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did after the word of Mordecai, as when she was nourished with him. 21 ¶ In those days when Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay 1hand on the King Ahasuerus. 22 And the thing was known to Mordecai, and he told it unto Queen Esther, and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name: and when inquisition was made, it was found so: therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the 1Chronicles before the king. 3 1 Haman, after he was exalted, obtained of the King, that all the Jews should be put to death, because Mordecai had not done him worship as others had.

thou the king's commandment? 4 And albeit they spake daily unto him, yet he would not hear them: therefore they 1told Haman, that they might see how Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them, that he was a Jew. 5 And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not the knee unto him, nor did reverence unto him, then Haman was full of wrath. 6 Now he 1thought it too little to lay hands only on Mordecai: and because they had showed him the people of Mordecai, Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai. 7 In the first month (that is the month 1Nisan) in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur (that is a lot) 2before Haman, from day to day, and from month to month unto the twelfth month, that is the month 3Adar. 8 Then Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a people scattered, and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom, and their laws are divers from all people, and they do not observe the 1King's laws: therefore it is not the king's profit to suffer them. 9 If it please the king, let it be written that they may be destroyed, and I will 1pay ten thousand talents of silver by the hands of them that have the charge of this business to bring it into the king's treasury. 10 Then the king took his ring from his hand, and gave it unto Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite the Jews' adversary. 11 And the king said unto Haman, Let the silver be thine, and the people to do with them as it pleaseth thee. 12 Then were the king's 1Scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written (according to all that Haman commanded) unto the king's officers, and to the captains that were over every province, and to the rulers of every people, and to every province, according to the writing thereof, and to every people according to their language: in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring. 13 And the letters were sent 1by posts into all the

1 After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and exalted him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him. 2 And all the king's servants that were at the king's gate, bowed their knees, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him: but Mordecai 1bowed not the knee, neither did reverence. 3 Then the king's servants which were at the king's gate, said unto Mordecai, Why transgressest

2:16 1 Which contained part of December and part of January. 2:18 1 That is, made for her sake. 2 He released their tribute. 3 That is, great and magnificent. 2:19 1 That is, at the marriage of Esther, which was the second mar­ riage of the king. 2:21 1 Meaning, to kill him. 2:22 1 In the Chronicles of the Medes and Persians, as Esther 10:2. 3:2 1 The Persians' manner was to kneel down and reverence their kings, and such as he appointed in chief authority, which Mordecai would not do to this ambitious and proud man. 3:4 1 Thus we see that there is none so wicked, but they have their flatterers to accuse the godly.

3:6 1 Hebrew, despised in his eyes. 3:7 1 Which answereth to part of March and part of April. 2 To know what month and day should be good to enterprise this thing, that it might have good success: but God disappointed their lots, and expectation. 3 Containing part of February and part of March. 3:8 1 These be the two arguments which commonly the worldlings and the wicked use toward princes against the godly, that is, the con­ tempt of their laws, and diminishing of their profit: without respect how God is either pleased or displeased. 3:9 1 Hebrew, weigh. 3:12 1 Or, secretaries. 3:13 1 Hebrew, the hands of posts.

Esther 3:14 506

king's provinces, to root out, to kill and to destroy all the Jews, both young and old, children and women, in one day upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month (which is the month Adar) and to spoil them as a prey. 14 The contents of the writing was, that there should be given a commandment in all provinces, and published unto all people, that they should be ready against the same day. 15 And the posts compelled by the King's commandment went forth, and the commandment was given in the palace at Shushan: and the king and Haman sat drinking, but the 1city of Shushan was in perplexity. 4 5 Mordecai giveth the Queen knowledge of the cruel decree of the king against the Jews. 16 She willeth that they pray for her.

them, that he might show it unto Esther and declare it unto her, and to charge her that she should go in to the king, and make petition and supplication before him for her people. 9 ¶ So when Hathach came, he told Esther the words of Mordecai. 10 Then Esther said unto Hathach, and commanded him to say unto Mordecai, 11 All the king's servants and the people of the King's provinces do know, That whosoever, man or woman, that cometh to the king into the inner court, which is not called, there is a law of his, that he shall die, except him to whom the king holdeth out the golden rod, that he may live. Now I have not been called to come unto the king these thirty days. 12 And they certified Mordecai of Esther's words. 13 And Mordecai said, that they should answer Esther thus, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. 14 For if thou holdest thy peace at this time, 1comfort and deliverance 2shall appear to the Jews out of another place, but thou and thy father's house shall perish: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for 3such a time? 15 Then Esther commanded to answer Mordecai, 16 Go, and assemble all the Jews that are found in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and eat not, nor drink in three days, day nor night. I also and my maids will fast likewise, and so will I go in to the King, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, 1I perish. 17 So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him. 5 1 Esther entereth to the King, and biddeth him and Haman to a feast. 14 Haman prepareth a gallows for Mordecai.

1 Now when Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth, and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a great cry, and a bitter. 2 And he came even before the King's 1gate, but he might not enter within the king's gate, being clothed with sackcloth. 3 And in every province and place, whither the king's charge and his commission came, there was great sorrow among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and mourning, and 1many lay in sackcloth and in ashes. 4 ¶ Then Esther's maids and her Eunuchs came and told it her: therefore the queen was very heavy, and she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai, and to take away his sackcloth from him, but he received it not. 5 Then called Esther Hathach one of the King's eunuchs, whom he 1had appointed to serve her, and gave him a commandment unto Mordecai, to know what it was, and why it was. 6 So Hathach went forth to Mordecai unto the street of the city, which was before the king's gate. 7 And Mordecai told him of all that which had come unto him, and of the 1sum of the silver that Haman had promised to pay unto the King's treasures, because of the Jews, for to destroy them. 8 Also he gave him the 1copy of the writing and commission that was given at Shushan, to destroy

1 And on the third 1day Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the court of the King's palace within, over against the King's house: and the King sat upon his royal throne in the king's palace over against the gate of the house. 2 And when the King saw Esther the Queen standing in the court, she found favor in his sight: and the King 1held out the golden scepter that was in his hand: so Esther drew near, and touched the top of the scepter.

3:15 1 To wit, the Jews that were in Shushan. 4:2 1 Because he would advertise Esther of this cruel proclamation. 4:3 1 Hebrew, sackcloth and ashes were spread for many. 4:5 1 Hebrew, had caused to stand before her. 4:7 1 Hebrew, declaration. 4:8 1 Or, contents. 4:14 1 Hebrew, breathing. 2 Thus Mordecai spake in the confidence of that faith which all

God's children ought to have: which is, that God will deliver them, though all worldly means fail. 3 For to deliver God's Church out of these present dangers. 4:16 1 I will put my life in danger and refer the success to God, seeing it is for his glory and the deliverance of his Church. 5:1 1 To wit, after that the Jews had begun to fast. 5:2 1 Which was a sign that her coming was agreeable unto him, as Esther 4:11.

507 Esther 6:11

6 2 The king turneth over the Chronicles, and findeth the fidelity of Mordecai, 10 and commandeth Haman to cause Mordecai to be had in honor.

3 Then said the King unto her, What wilt thou, Queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even 1given thee to the half of the kingdom. 4 Then said Esther, If it please the king, let the King and Haman come this day unto the banquet, that I have prepared for him. 5 And the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that he may do as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared. 6 And the king said unto Esther at the banquet of

chapter 6

a Esther 2:22

1 The same night 1the king slept not, and he commanded to bring the book of the Records, and the Chronicles: and they were read before the king. 2 Then it was found written that Mordecai ahad told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king's eunuchs keepers of the door, who sought to lay hands on the King Ahasuerus. 3 Then the king said, What honor and dignity hath been given to Mordecai 1for this? And the king's servants that ministered unto him, said, There is nothing done for him. 4 And the king said, Who is in the court? (Now Haman was come into the inner court of the king's house, that he might speak unto the king to 1hang Mordecai on the tree that he had prepared for him.) 5 And the king's servants said unto him, Behold, Haman standeth in the court. And the king said, Let him come in. 6 And when Haman came in, the king said unto him, What shall be done unto the man whom the king will honor? Then Haman thought in his heart, To whom would the king do honor more than to me? 7 And Haman answered the king, The man whom the king would honor, 8 Let them bring for him royal apparel, which the king useth to wear, and the 1horse that the king rideth upon, and that the crown royal may be set upon his head. 9 And let the raiment and the horse be delivered by the hand of one of the king's most noble princes, and let them apparel the man (whom the king will honor) and cause him to ride upon the horse through the street of the city, and proclaim before him, Thus shall it be done unto the man whom the king will honor. 10 Then the king said to Haman, Make haste, take the raiment and the horse, as thou hast said, and do so unto Mordecai the Jew, that sitteth at the king's gate: let nothing fail of all that thou hast spoken. 11 So Haman took the raiment and the horse, and arrayed Mordecai, and brought him on horseback through the street of the city, and proclaimed before him, Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king

1wine, What is thy petition, that it may be given thee? and what is thy request? it shall even be performed unto the half of the kingdom. 7 Then answered Esther, and said, My petition, and my request is, 8 If I have found favor in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to give me my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do tomorrow according to the king's 1saying. 9 ¶ Then went Haman forth the same day joyful, and with a glad heart. But when Haman saw Mordecai in the king's gate, that he stood not up, nor moved for him, then was Haman full of indignation at Mordecai. 10 Nevertheless, Haman refrained himself: and when he came home, he sent, and called for his friends, and Zeresh his wife. 11 And Haman told them of the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all the things wherein the king had 1promoted him, and how that he had set him above the princes and servants of the king. 12 Haman said moreover, Yea, Esther the queen did let no man come in with the king to the banquet that she had prepared, save me: and tomorrow am I bidden unto her also with the king. 13 But all this doth nothing avail me, as long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate. 14 Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends unto him, Let them make a tree of fifty 1cubits high, and tomorrow speak thou unto the king, that Mordecai may be hanged thereon: then shalt thou go joyfully with the king unto the banquet. And the thing pleased Haman, and he caused to make the tree.

5:3 1 Meaning hereby, that whatsoever she asked should be granted, as Mark 6:23. 5:6 1 Because they used to drink excessively in their banquets, they called the banquet by the name of that which was most in use or esteemed. 5:8 1 I will declare what thing I demand. 5:11 1 Thus the wicked when they are promoted, instead of acknowledging their charge and humbling themselves, wax ambitious, disdainful, and cruel.

5:14 1 Meaning, the highest that could be found. 6:1 1 Hebrew, the king's sleep departed. 6:3 1 For he thought it unworthy his estate to receive a benefit, and not reward it. 6:4 1 Thus while the wicked imagine the destruction of others, they themselves fall into the same pit. 6:8 1 Meaning hereby that the king should make him next unto him­ self, as Joseph hereby was known to be next to Pharaoh, Gen. 41:41.

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8 And when the king came again out of the palace garden, into the house where they drank wine, Haman was 1fallen upon the bed whereon Esther sat: therefore the King said, Will he force the Queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the King's mouth, they 2covered Haman's face. 9 And Harbonah one of the eunuchs, said in the presence of the King, Behold, there standeth yet the tree in Haman's house fifty cubits high, which Haman had prepared for Mordecai, that spake 1good for the king. Then the King said, Hang him thereon. 10 So they hanged Haman on the tree, that he had prepared for Mordecai: then was the King's wrath pacified. 8 1 After the death of Haman was Mordecai exalted. 14 Comfortable letters are sent unto the Jews.

will honor. 12 And Mordecai came again to the king's gate, but Haman hasted home mourning and his head covered. 13 And Haman told Zeresh his wife, and all his friends, all that had befallen him. Then said his wise men, and Zeresh his wife unto him, If Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom thou hast begun to fall, thou shalt not prevail against him, 1but shalt surely fall before him. 14 And while they were yet talking with him, came the king's eunuchs and hasted to bring Haman unto the banquet that Esther had prepared. 7 3 The queen biddeth the king and Haman again, and prayeth for herself and her people. 6 She accuseth Haman, and he is hanged on the gallows which he had prepared for Mordecai.

1 The same day did King Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the adversary of the Jews, unto the Queen Esther. And Mordecai 1came before the King: for Esther told what he was 2unto her. 2 And the King took off his ring, which he had taken from Haman, and gave it unto Mordecai: and Esther set Mordecai over the house of Haman. 3 And Esther spake yet more before the King, and fell down at his feet weeping, and besought him that he would put away the 1wickedness of Haman the Agagite, and his device that he had imagined against the Jews. 4 And the King held out the golden 1scepter toward Esther. Then arose Esther, and stood before the King, 5 And said, If it please the King, and if I have found favor in his sight, and the thing be acceptable before the King, and I please him, let it be written, that the letters of the device of Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite may be called again, which he wrote to destroy the Jews, that are in all the King's provinces. 6 For how can I suffer and see the evil, that shall come unto my people? Or how can I suffer and see the destruction of my kindred? 7 And the king Ahasuerus said unto the Queen Esther, and to Mordecai the Jew, Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, whom they have hanged upon the tree, because he 1laid hand upon

1 So the king and Haman came to banquet with the queen Esther. 2 And the king said again unto Esther on the second day at the banquet of 1wine, What is thy petition, Queen Esther, that it may be given thee? and what is thy request? It shall be even performed unto the half of the kingdom. 3 And Esther the queen answered, and said, If I have found favor in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request. 4 For we are sold, I, and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish: but if we were sold for servants, and for handmaids, I would have held my tongue, although the adversary could not 1recompense the king's loss. 5 Then king Ahasuerus answered, and said unto the queen Esther, Who is he? and where is he that 1presumeth to do thus? 6 And Esther said, The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman. Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen. 7 And the king arose from the banquet of wine in his wrath, and went into the palace garden: but Haman stood up to make request for his life to the queen Esther: for he saw that there was a 1mischief prepared for him of the king.

6:13 1 Thus God sometimes putteth in the mouth of the very wicked, to speak that thing which he hath decreed shall come to pass. 7:2 1 Read Esther 5:6. 7:4 1 Haman could not so much profit the king by this his malice, as he should hinder him by the loss of the Jews, and the tribute which he hath of them. 7:5 1 Hebrew, filleth his heart. 7:7 1 His conscience did accuse him that as he had conspired the death of innocents, so the vengeance of God might fall upon him for the same. 7:8 1 He fell down at the bed's feet or couch, whereupon she sat, and

made request for his life. 2 This was the manner of the Persians, when one was out of the King's favor. 7:9 1 Which discovered the conspiracy against the king, Esther 2:21, 22. 8:1 1 That is, was received into the king's favor and presence. 2 That he was her uncle, and had brought her up. 8:3 1 Meaning, that he should abolish the wicked decrees, which he had made for the destruction of the Jews. 8:4 1 Read Esther 5:2. 8:7 1 Or, went about to slay the Jews.

509 Esther 9:11

17 Also in all and every province, and in all and every city and place, where the King's commandment and his decree came, there was joy and gladness to the Jews, a feast and good day, and many of the people of the land 1became Jews: for the fear of the Jews fell upon them. 9 1 At the commandment of the King, the Jews put their adversaries to death. 14 The ten sons of Haman are hanged. 17 The Jews keep a feast in remembrance of their deliverance.

the Jews. 8 Write ye also for the Jews, as it liketh you in the King's name, and seal it with the King's ring, (for the writings written in the King's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may 1no man revoke.) 9 Then were the King's Scribes called at the same time, even in the third month, that is the month 1Sivan, on the three and twentieth day thereof: and it was written, according to all as Mordecai commanded, unto the Jews and to the princes, and captains and rulers of the provinces, which were from India even unto Ethiopia, an hundred and seven and twenty provinces, unto every province according to the 2writing thereof, and to every people after their speech, and to the Jews, according to their writing, and according to their language. 10 And he wrote in the King Ahasuerus's name, and sealed it with the King's ring, and he sent letters by posts on horseback and that rode on beasts of price, as dromedaries, and 1colts of mares. 11 Wherein the King granted the Jews (in what cities soever they were) to gather themselves together, and to stand for 1their life, and to root out, to slay and to destroy all the power of the people and of the province that vexed them, both children and women, and to spoil their goods: 12 Upon one day in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, even in the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month 1Adar. 13 The copy of the writing was, how there should be a commandment given in all and every province, published among all the people, and that the Jews should be ready against that day, to 1avenge themselves on their enemies. 14 So the posts rode upon beasts of price, and dromedaries, and went forth with speed, to execute the King's commandment, and the decree was given at Shushan the palace. 15 And Mordecai went out from the King in royal apparel of blue, and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple, and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. 16 And unto the Jews was come light and 1joy and gladness, and honor.

1 So in the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, upon the thirteenth day of the same, when the King's commandment and his decree drew near to be put in execution, in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have power over them (but it 1turned contrary: for the Jews had rule over them that hated them.) 2 The Jews gathered themselves together into their cities throughout all the provinces of the King Ahasuerus, to lay hand on such as sought their hurt, and no man could withstand them: for the fear of them fell upon all people. 3 And all the rulers of the provinces, and the princes and the captains, and the officers of the King 1exalted the Jews: for the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. 4 For Mordecai was great in the King's house, and the report of him went through all the provinces: for this man Mordecai waxed greater and greater. 5 Thus the Jews smote all their 1enemies with strokes of the sword and slaughter, and destruction, and did what they would unto those that hated them. 6 And at Shushan the palace slew the Jews and destroyed 1five hundred men, 7 And Parshandatha, and Dalphon, and Aspatha, 8 And Poratha, and Adalia, and Aridatha, 9 And Parmashta, and Arisai, and Aridai, and Vajezatha, 10 The ten sons of Haman, the son of Hammedatha, the adversary of the Jews slew they: but they laid not their hands 1on the spoil. 11 On the same day came the number of those that were slain, unto the palace of Shushan before the King.

8:8 1 This was the law of the Medes and Persians, as Dan. 6:15, not­ withstanding the king revoked the former decree granted to Haman, for Esther's sake. 8:9 1 Which containeth part of May and part of June. 2 That is, in such letters and language, as was usual in every prov­ ince. 8:10 1 Or, mules. 8:11 1 That is, to defend themselves against all that would assail them. 8:12 1 Which hath part of February and part of March. 8:13 1 The king gave them liberty to kill all that did oppress them. 8:16 1 He showeth by these words that follow, what this light was.

8:17 1 Conformed themselves to the Jew's religion. 9:1 1 This was by God's great providence, who turneth the joy of the wicked into sorrow, and the tears of the godly into gladness. 9:3 1 Did them honor, and showed them friendship. 9:5 1 Which had conspired their death by the permission of the wicked Haman. 9:6 1 Besides those three hundred, that they slew the second day, as verse 15. 9:10 1 Whereby they declared that this was God's just judgment upon the enemies of his Church, forasmuch as they sought not their own gain, but to execute his vengeance.

Esther 9:12 510

12 And the King said unto the Queen Esther, The Jews have slain in Shushan the palace, and destroyed five hundred men, and the ten sons of Haman: what have they done in the rest of the King's provinces? and what is thy petition, that it may be given thee? or what is thy request moreover, that it may be performed? 13 Then said Esther, If it please the King, let it be granted also tomorrow to the Jews that are in Shushan, to do according 1unto this day's decree, that they may hang upon the tree Haman's ten sons. 14 And the King charged to do so, and the decree was given at Shushan, and they hanged Haman's ten sons. 15 ¶ So the Jews that were in Shushan, assembled themselves upon the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and slew three hundred men in Shushan, but on the spoil they laid not their hand. 16 And the rest of the Jews that were in the King's provinces assembled themselves, and stood for 1their lives, and had rest from their enemies, and slew of them that 2hated them, seventy and five thousand: but they laid not their hand on the spoil. 17 This they did on the 1thirteenth day of the month Adar, and rested the fourteenth day thereof, and kept it a day of feasting and joy. 18 But the Jews that were in Shushan assembled themselves on the thirteenth day, and on the fourteenth thereof, and they rested on the fifteenth of the same, and kept it a day of feasting and joy. 19 Therefore the Jews of the villages that dwelt in the unwalled towns, 1kept the fourteenth day of the month Adar with joy and feasting, even a joyful day, and everyone sent presents unto his neighbor. 20 ¶ And Mordecai wrote 1these words, and sent letters unto all the Jews that were through all the provinces of the King Ahasuerus, both near and far, 21 Enjoining them that they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same, every year. 22 According to the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning

into a joyful day, to keep them the days of feasting and joy, and to 1send presents every man to his neighbor, and gifts to the poor. 23 And the Jews promised to do as they had begun, and as Mordecai had written unto them, 24 Because Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite all the Jews' adversary had imagined against the Jews to destroy them, and had 1cast Pur (that is a lot) to consume and destroy them. 25 And when 1she came before the king, he commanded by letters, Let this wicked 2device (which he imagined against the Jews) turn upon his own head, and let them hang him and his sons on the tree. 26 Therefore they called these days Purim, by the name of Pur, and because of all the words of this letter, and of that which they had seen besides this, and of that which had come unto them. 27 The Jews also ordained, and promised for them and for their seed, and for all that joined unto them, that they would not 1fail to observe those two 2days every year, according to their writing, and according unto their season, 28 And that these days should be remembered, and kept throughout every generation and every family, and every province, and every city: even these days of Purim should not fail among the Jews, and the memorial of them should not perish from their seed. 29 And the Queen Esther the daughter of Abihail and Mordecai the Jew wrote with all 1authority (to confirm this letter of Purim the second time.) 30 And he sent letters unto all the Jews to the hundred and seven and twenty provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, with 1words of peace and truth, 31 To confirm these days of Purim according to their seasons, as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the Queen had appointed them, and as they had promised for 1themselves and for their seed with 2fasting and prayer. 32 And the decree of Esther confirmed these words of Purim, and was written in the book. 10 1 The estimation and authority of Mordecai.

9:13 1 This she requireth not for desire of vengeance, but with zeal to see God's judgments executed against his enemies. 9:16 1 Read Esther 8:11. 2 Meaning, that they laid hands on none that were not this ene­ mies of God. 9:17 1 Meaning, in all places saving in Shushan. 9:19 1 As the Jews do even to this day, calling it in the Persian lan­ guage Purim, that is, the day of lots. 9:20 1 The Jews gather hereof that Mordecai wrote this story: but it seemeth that he wrote but only these letters and decrees that fol­ low. 9:22 1 He setteth before our eyes the use of this feast, which was for the remembrance of God's deliverance, the maintenance of mutual

friendship and relief of the poor. 9:24 1 Read Esther 3. 9:25 1 That is, Esther. 2 These are the words of the king's commandment to disannul Haman's wicked enterprise. 9:27 1 Or, transgress. 2 Meaning, the fourteenth and fifteenth day of the month of Adar. 9:29 1 Or, strength, or efficacy. 9:30 1 Which were letters declaring unto them quietness, and assur­ ance and putting them out of doubt and fear. 9:31 1 Hebrew, souls. 2 That they would observe this feast with fasting and earnest prayer, which in Hebrew is signified by this word (they cry).

511 Esther 10:3

of Media and Persia? 3 For Mordecai the Jew was the second unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and 1accepted among the multitude of his brethren, who procured the wealth of his people, and spake peaceably to all his seed.

1 And the King Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea. 2 And all the acts of his power, and of his might, and the declaration of the dignity of Mordecai, wherewith the King magnified him, are they not written in the book of the Chronicles of the Kings

10:3 1 These three points are here set forth as commendable and necessary for him that is in authority, to have the favor of the peo­

ple, to procure their wealth, and to be gentle and loving toward them.

J o b

1 1 The holiness, riches, and care of Job for his children. 10 Satan hath permission to tempt him. 13 He tempteth him by taking away his substance, and his children. 20 His faith and patience.

thou? And Satan answered the Lord, saying, 2From compassing the earth to and fro, and from walking in it. 8 And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou not considered my servant Job, how none is like him in the earth? an upright and just man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? 9 Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, Doth Job fear God for 1nought? 10 Hast thou not made 1an hedge about him and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. 11 But stretch out now thine hand and 1touch all that he hath, to see if he will not blaspheme thee 2to thy face. 12 Then the Lord said unto Satan, Lo, all that he hath is in 1thine hand: only upon himself shalt thou not stretch out thine hand. So Satan departed from the 2presence of the Lord. 13 ¶ And on a day, when his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house, 14 There came a messenger unto Job, and said, The oxen were plowing, and the asses feeding in their places,

1 There was a man in the land of 1Uz called Job, and this man 2was an upright and just man, 3one that feared God, and eschewed evil. 2 And he had seven sons, and three daughters. 3 His 1substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and his family was very great, so that this man was the greatest of all the 2men of 3the East. 4 And his sons went and banqueted in their houses, every one his day, and sent, and called their three sisters to eat and to drink with them. 5 And when the days of their banqueting were gone about, Job sent, and 1sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and 2offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job thought, It may be that my sons have sinned, and 3blasphemed God in their hearts, thus did Job 4every day. 6 ¶ Now on a day when the 1children of God came and stood 2before the Lord, Satan 3came also among them. 7 Then the Lord said unto Satan, Whence 1comest

1:1 1 That is, of the country of Idumea, as Lam. 4:21, or bordering thereupon: for the land was called by the name of Uz, the son of Dishan the son of Seir, Gen. 36:28. 2 Forasmuch as he was a Gentile, and not a Jew, and yet is pro­ nounced upright, and without hypocrisy, it declareth that among the heathen God hath his. 3 Hereby is declared, what is meant by an upright and just man. 1:3 1 His children and riches are declared, to commend his virtue in his prosperity and his patience, and constancy, when God had taken them from him. 2 Hebrew, children. 3 Meaning, the Arabians, Chaldeans, Idumeans, etc. 1:5 1 That is, commanded them to be sanctified: meaning, that they should consider the faults that they had committed, and reconcile themselves for the same. 2 That is, he offered for every one of his children an offering of rec­ onciliation, which declared his religion toward God, and the care that he had toward his children. 3 In Hebrew it is, and blessed God, which is sometimes taken for blaspheming and cursing, as here and 1 Kings 21:10, 13, etc. 4 While the feast lasted. 1:6 1 Meaning, the Angels, which are called the sons of God, because they are willing to execute his will.

2 Because our infirmity cannot comprehend God in his majesty, he is set forth unto us as a King, that our capacity may be able to understand that which is spoken of him. 3 This declareth, that although Satan be adversary to God, yet he is compelled to obey him, and do him all homage, without whose permission and appointment he can do nothing. 1:7 1 This question is asked for our infirmity: for God knew whence he came. 2 Herein is described the nature of Satan, which is ever ranging for his prey, 1 Pet. 5:8. 1:9 1 He feareth thee not for thine own sake, but for the commodity that he received by thee. 1:10 1 Meaning, the grace of God, which served Job as a rampart against all tentations. 1:11 1 This signifieth, that Satan is not able to touch us, but it is God that must do it. 2 Satan noteth the vice whereunto men are commonly subject, that is, to hide their rebellion, and to be content with God in the time of prosperity, which view is disclosed in the time of their adversity. 1:12 1 God giveth not Satan power over man to gratify him, but to declare that he hath no power over man, but that which God giveth him. 2 That is, went to execute that which God had permitted him to do: for else he can never go out of God's presence.

513 Job 2:10

15 And the 1Sabeans came violently, and took them: yea, they have slain the servants with the edge of the sword: but I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 16 And while he was yet speaking, another came, and said, The 1fire of God is fallen from the heaven, and hath burnt up the sheep and the servants, and devoured them: but I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 17 And while he was yet speaking, another came, and said, The Chaldeans set on three bands, and fell upon the camels, and have taken them, and have slain the servants with the edge of the sword: but I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 18 And while he was yet speaking, came another, and said, Thy 1sons, and thy daughters were eating, and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house, 19 And behold, there came a great wind from beyond the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, which fell upon the children, and they are dead, and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 20 Then Job arose, and 1rent his garment, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, 21 And said, aNaked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return 1thither: the Lord hath given, and the Lord hath taken it: 2blessed be the Name of the Lord. 22 In all this did not Job sin, nor charge God 1foolishly. 2 6 Satan hath permission to afflict Job. 9 His wife tempteth him to forsake God. 11 His three friends visit him.

1 And on a day the 1children of God came and stood before the Lord, and 2Satan came also among them, and stood before the Lord. 2 Then the Lord said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? And Satan answered the Lord, and said, From compassing the earth to and fro, and from walking in it. 3 And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou not considered my servant Job, how none is like him in the earth? aan upright and just man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? for yet he continueth in his uprightness, 1although thou movedst me against him, to destroy 2him without cause. 4 And Satan answered the Lord, and said, 1Skin for skin, and all that ever a man hath, will he give for his life. 5 But stretch now out thine hand, and touch his 1bones and his flesh, to see if he will not blaspheme thee to thy face. 6 Then the Lord said unto Satan, Lo, he is in thine hand, but save 1his life. 7 ¶ So Satan departed from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore 1boils, from the sole of his foot unto his crown. 8 And he took a 1potsherd to scrape him, and he sat down among the ashes. 9 Then said his 1wife unto him, Dost thou 2continue yet in thine uprightness? 3Blaspheme God, and die. 10 But he said unto her, Thou speakest like a foolish woman: what? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and not 1receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his 2lips.

chapter 1

a Eccl. 5:14

1 Tim. 6:7

chapter 2

a Ezek. 14:14

Job 1:1

1:15 1 That is, the Arabians. 1:16 1 Which thing was also done by the craft of Satan, to tempt Job the more grievously, forasmuch as he might see, that not only men were his enemies, but that God made war against him. 1:18 1 This last plague declareth, that when one plague is past which seemeth hard to be borne, God can send us another far more grievous, to try his, and teach them obedience. 1:20 1 Which came not of impatience, but declareth that the chil­ dren of God are not insensible like blocks, but that in their patience they feel affliction and grief of mind: yet they keep a mean herein, and rebel not against God, as the wicked do. 1:21 1 That is, into the belly of the earth, which is the mother of all. 2 Hereby he confesseth that God is just, and good, although his hand be sore upon him. 1:22 1 But declared that God did all things according to justice and equity. 2:1 1 That is, the Angels, as Job 1:6. 2 Read Job 1:6. 2:3 1 He proveth Job's integrity by this that he ceased not to fear God when his plagues were grievously upon him. 2 That is, when thou hadst nought against him, or when thou wast not able to bring thy purpose to pass. 2:4 1 Hereby he meant, that a man's own skin is dearer unto him than another man's.

2:5 1 Meaning, his own person. 2:6 1 Thus Satan can go no further in punishing, than God hath lim­ ited him. 2:7 1 This sore was most vehement, wherewith also God plagued the Egyptians, Exod. 9:9, and threateneth to punish the rebellious people, Deut. 28:27, so that this tentation was most grievous: for if Job had measured God's favor by the vehemency of his disease, he might have thought that God had cast him off. 2:8 1 As destitute of all other help and means, and wonderfully afflicted with the sorrow of his disease. 2:9 1 Satan useth the same instrument against Job, as he did against Adam. 2 Meaning, what gainest thou to serve God, seeing he thus plagueth thee, as though he were thine enemy? This is the most grievous temptation of the faithful, when their faith is assailed, and when Satan goeth about to persuade them that they trust in God in vain. 3 For death was appointed to the blasphemer, and so she meant that he should soon be rid out of his pain. 2:10 1 That is, to be patient in adversity, as we rejoice when he send­ eth prosperity, and so to acknowledge him to be both merciful and just. 2 He so bridled his affections, that his tongue through impatience did not murmur against God.

Job 2:11 514

9 Let the stars of that twilight be dim through darkness of it: let it look for light, but have none: neither let it 1see 2the dawning of the day, 10 Because it shut not up the doors of my mother's womb, nor hid sorrow from mine eyes. 11 1Why died I not in the birth? or why died I not, when I came out of the womb? 12 Why did the knees prevent me? and why did I suck the breasts? 13 For so should I now have 1lain and been quiet, I should have slept then, and been at rest, 14 With the kings and counselors of the earth, which have built themselves 1desolate places: 15 Or with the princes that had gold, and have filled their houses with silver. 16 Or why was I not hid, as an untimely birth, either as infants, which have not seen the light? 17 The wicked 1have there ceased from their tyranny, and there they that labored valiantly, are at rest. 18 The 1prisoners rest together, and hear not the voice of the oppressor. 19 There are small and great, and the servant is free from his master. 20 Wherefore is the light given to him that is in misery? and 1life unto them that have heavy hearts? 21 Which long for death, and if it come not, they would even search it more than treasures: 22 Which joy for gladness, and rejoice, when they can find the grave. 23 Why is the light given to the man whose way is 1hid, and whom God hath hedged in? 24 For my sighing cometh before I eat, and my roarings are poured out like the water. 25 For the thing I 1feared, is come upon me, and the thing that I was afraid of, is come unto me.

11 Now when Job's three 1friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place, to wit, Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they were agreed together to come to lament with him, and to comfort him. 12 So when they lifted up their eyes afar off, they knew him not: therefore they lifted up their voices and wept, and every one of them rent his garment and sprinkled 1dust upon their heads toward the heaven. 13 So they sat by him upon the ground seven days, and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that the grief was very 1great. 3 1 Job complaineth, and curseth the day of his birth. 11 He desireth to die, as though death were the end of all man's misery.

1 Afterward 1Job opened his mouth, and 2cursed his day. 2 And Job cried out, and said, 3 Let the day 1perish wherein I was born, and the night when it was said, There is a man child conceived. 4 Let that day be darkness, let not God 1regard it from above, neither let the light shine upon it, 5 But let darkness and the 1shadow of death stain it: let the cloud remain upon it, and let them make it fearful as a bitter day. 6 Let darkness possess that night, let it not be joined unto the days of the year, nor let it come into the count of the months. 7 Yea, desolate be that night, and let no joy be in it. 8 Let them that curse the day, (being 1ready to renew their mourning) curse it.

2:11 1 Which were men of authority, wise and learned, and as the Septuagint writes, Kings, and came to comfort him, but when they saw how he was visited, they conceived an evil opinion of him, as though he had been but an hypocrite, and so justly plagued of God for his sins. 2:12 1 This was also a ceremony, which they used in those countries, as the renting of their clothes in sign of sorrow, etc. 2:13 1 And therefore thought that he would not have hearkened unto their counsel. 3:1 1 The seven days ended, Job 2:13. 2 Here Job beginneth to feel his great imperfection in this battle between the spirit and the flesh, Rom. 7:18, and after a manner yield­ eth, yet in the end he getteth victory, though he was in the mean time greatly wounded. 3:3 1 Men ought not to be weary of their life, and curse it, because of the infirmities that it is subject unto, but because they are given to sin and rebellion against God. 3:4 1 Let it be put out of the number of days, and let it not have the light of the Sun to separate it from the night. 3:5 1 That is, most obscure darkness, which maketh them afraid of death that are in it. 3:8 1 Which curse the day of their birth, let them lay that curse upon

this night. 3:9 1 Let it be always night, and never see day. 2 Hebrew, The eyelids of the morning. 3:11 1 This, and that which followeth, declareth, that when man giveth place to his passions, he is not able to stay nor keep measure, but runneth headlong into all evil, except God call him back. 3:13 1 The vehemency of his afflictions made him to utter these words, as though death were the end of all miseries, and as if there were no life after this, which he speaketh not as though it were so, but the infirmi­ ties of his flesh caused him to burst out in this error of the wicked. 3:14 1 He noteth the ambition of them, which for their pleasure as it were change the order of nature, and build in most barren places, because they would hereby make their names immortal. 3:17 1 That is, by death the cruelty of the tyrants hath ceased. 3:18 1 All they that sustain any kind of calamity and misery in this world: which he speaketh after the judgment of the flesh. 3:20 1 He showeth that the benefits of God are not comfortable, expect the heart be joyful, and the conscience quieted. 3:23 1 That seeth not how to come out of his miseries, because he dependeth not on God's providence. 3:25 1 In my prosperity I looked ever for a fall, as is come now to pass.

515 Job 5:4

26 I had no peace, neither had I quietness, neither had I rest, 1yet trouble is come. 4 5 Job is reprehended of impatience, 7 and injustice, 17 and of the presumption of his own righteousness.

13 In the thoughts of the visions of the night, when sleep falleth on men, 14 Fear came upon me, and dread which made all my bones 1to tremble. 15 And the wind passed before me, and made the hairs of my flesh to stand up. 16 Then stood one, and I knew not his face: an image was before mine eyes, and in 1silence heard I a voice, saying, 17 Shall man be more 1just than God? or shall a man be more pure than his Maker? 18 Behold, he found no steadfastness in his servants, and laid folly upon his 1Angels. 19 How much more in them that dwell in houses of 1clay, whose foundation is in the dust, which shall be destroyed before the moth? 20 They be destroyed from the 1morning unto the evening: they perish forever, 2without regard. 21 Doth not their dignity go away with them? do they not die, and that without 1wisdom? 5 1, 2 Eliphaz showeth the difference between the children of God and the wicked. 3 The fall of the wicked. 9 God's power who destroyeth the wicked, and delivereth his.

1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite, answered and said, 2 If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but 1who can withhold himself from speaking? 3 Behold, thou hast taught many, and 1hast strengthened the weary hands. 4 Thy words have confirmed him that was falling, and thou hast strengthened the weak knees. 5 But now it is come upon thee, and thou art grieved: it toucheth thee, and thou art troubled. 6 Is not this thy 1fear, thy confidence, thy patience, and uprightness of thy ways? 7 Remember, I pray thee: who ever perished, being an 1innocent? or where were the upright destroyed? 8 As I have seen, they that 1plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same. 9 With the 1blast of God they perish, and with the breath of his nostrils are they consumed. 10 The roaring of the 1Lion, and the voice of the Lioness, and the teeth of the Lion's whelps are broken. 11 The Lion perisheth for lack of prey, and the Lion's whelps are scattered abroad. 12 But a thing was brought to me 1secretly, and mine ear hath received a little thereof.

1 Call now, if any will 1answer thee, and to which of the Saints wilt thou turn? 2 Doubtless 1anger killeth the foolish, and envy slayeth the idiot. 3 I have seen the 1foolish well rooted, and suddenly I 2cursed his habitation, saying, 4 His 1children shall be far from salvation, and they shall be destroyed in the 2gate, and none shall deliver them.

3:26 1 The fear of troubles that should ensue, caused my prosperity to seem to me as nothing, and yet I am not exempted from trouble. 4:2 1 Seeing this thine impatience. 4:3 1 Thou hast comforted others in their afflictions, and canst not now comfort thyself. 4:6 1 This he concludeth that Job was but an hypocrite, and had no true fear nor trust in God. 4:7 1 He concludeth that Job was reproved, seeing that God han­ dled him so extremely, which is the argument that the carnal men make against the children of God. 4:8 1 They that do evil, cannot but receive evil. 4:9 1 He showeth that God needeth no great preparation to destroy his enemies: for he can do it with the blast of his mouth. 4:10 1 Though men according to their office do not punish tyrants (whom for their cruelty he compareth to lions, and their children to their whelps) yet God both is able, and his justice will punish them. 4:12 1 A thing that I knew not before, was declared unto me by vision, that is, that whosoever thinketh himself just, shall be found a sinner, when he cometh before God. 4:14 1 In these visions which God showeth to his creatures, there is ever a certain fear joined, that the authority thereof might be had in greater reverence. 4:16 1 When all things were quiet, or when the fear was somewhat assuaged, as God appeared to Elijah, 1 Kings 19:12.

4:17 1 He proveth that if God did punish the innocent, the creature should be more just than the Creator, which were a blasphemy. 4:18 1 If God find imperfection in his Angels, when they are not maintained by his power, how much more shall he lay folly to man's charge when he would justify himself against God? 4:19 1 That is, in this mortal body, subject to corruption, as 2 Cor. 5:1. 4:20 1 They see death continually before their eyes, and daily approaching toward them. 2 No man for all this doth consider it. 4:21 1 That is, before that any of them were so wise, as to think on death. 5:1 1 He willeth Job to consider the example of all them that have lived or do live godly, whether any of them be like unto him in raging against God as he doth. 5:2 1 Murmuring against God in afflictions increaseth the pain, and uttered man's folly. 5:3 1 That is, the sinner that hath not the fear of God. 2 I was not moved with his prosperity, but knew that God had cursed him and his. 5:4 1 Though God sometimes suffer the fathers to pass in this world, yet his judgments will light upon their wicked children. 2 By public judgment they shall be condemned, and none shall pity them.

Job 5:5 516

5 The hungry shall eat up his harvest: yea, they shall take it from among the 1thorns, and the thirsty shall drink up their substance. 6 For misery cometh not forth of the dust, 1neither doeth affliction spring out of the earth. 7 But man is born unto 1travail, as the sparks fly upward. 8 But I would inquire at 1God, and turn my talk unto God: 9 Which 1doeth great things, and unsearchable, and marvelous things without number. 10 He 1giveth rain upon the earth, and poureth water upon the streets, 11 And setteth up on high them that be low, that the sorrowful may be exalted to salvation. 12 He scattereth the devices of the crafty: so that their hands cannot accomplish that which they do enterprise. 13 aHe taketh the wise in their craftiness, and the counsel of the wicked is made foolish. 14 They meet with 1darkness in the daytime, and 2grope at noonday, as in the night. 15 But he saveth the 1poor from the sword, from their 2mouth, and from the hand of the violent man, 16 So that the poor hath his hope, but iniquity shall 1stop her mouth. 17 Behold, blessed is the man whom God correcteth: therefore refuse not thou the chastising of the Almighty. 18 For he maketh the wound, and bindeth it up: he smiteth, and his hands make whole. 19 He shall deliver thee in 1six troubles, and in the seventh the evil shall not touch thee. 20 In famine he shall deliver thee from death: and

in battle from the power of the sword. 21 Thou shalt be hid from the scourge of the tongue, and thou shalt not be afraid of destruction when it cometh. 22 But thou shalt 1laugh at destruction and dearth, and shalt not be afraid of the beast of the earth. 23 For the stones of the field 1shall be in league with thee, and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with thee. 24 And thou shalt know, that peace shall be in thy tabernacle, and thou shalt visit thine habitation, and shalt not 1sin. 25 Thou shalt perceive also that thy seed shall be great, and thy posterity as the grass of the earth. 26 Thou shalt go to thy grave in 1a full age, as a rick of corn cometh in due season into the barn. 27 Lo, 1thus have we inquired of it, and so it is: hear this and know it for thyself. 6 1 Job answereth, that his pain is more grievous than his fault. 8 He wisheth death. 14 He complaineth of his friends.

chapter 5

a 1 Cor. 3:19

1 But Job answered and said, 2 Oh that my grief were well weighed, and my miseries were laid together in the 1balance! 3 For it would be now heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my words are 1swallowed up. 4 For the arrows of the Almighty are in me, the venom whereof doth drink up my spirit, and the terrors of God 1fight against me. 5 Doth the 1wild ass bray when he hath grass? or loweth the ox when he hath fodder? 6 That which is 1unsavory, shall it be eaten without salt? or is there any taste in the white of an egg? 7 Such things as my soul refused to touch, as

5:5 1 Though there be but two or three ears left in the hedges, yet these shall be taken from him. 5:6 1 That is, the earth is not the cause of barrenness and man's mis­ ery, but his own sin. 5:7 1 Which declareth that sin is ever in our corrupt nature: for before sin it was not subject to pain and affliction. 5:8 1 If I suffered as thou doest, I would seek unto God. 5:9 1 He counselleth Job to humble himself unto God to whom all creatures are subject and whose works declare that man is inexcus­ able except he glorify God in all his works. 5:10 1 He showeth by particular examples, what the works of God are. 5:14 1 In things plain and evident they show themselves fools instead of wise men. 2 This declareth that God punisheth the worldly wise, as he threat­ ened, Deut. 28:29. 5:15 1 That is, he that humbleth himself before God. 2 He compareth the slander of the wicked to sharp swords. 5:16 1 If the wicked be compelled at God's works to stop their mouths, much more they that profess God. 5:19 1 He will send trouble after trouble that his children may not for one time, but continually trust in him: but they shall have a comfort­ able issue, even in the greatest and the last, which is here called the

seventh. 5:22 1 Whereas the wicked lament in their troubles, thou shalt have occasion to rejoice. 5:23 1 When we are in God's favor, all creatures shall serve us. 5:24 1 God shall so bless thee, that thou shalt have occasion to rejoice in all things, and not to be offended. 5:26 1 Though the children of God have not always this promise per­ formed, yet God doth recompense it otherwise to their advantage. 5:27 1 We have learned these points by experience, that God pun­ isheth not the innocent, that man cannot compare in justice with him, that the hypocrites shall not long prosper, and that the affliction which man sustaineth, cometh for his own sin. 6:2 1 To know whether I complain without just cause. 6:3 1 My grief is so great that I lack words to express it. 6:4 1 Which declareth that he was not only afflicted in body, but wounded in conscience, which is the greatest battle that the faithful can have. 6:5 1 Think you that I cry without cause, seeing the brute beasts do not complain when they have what they would. 6:6 1 Can a man's taste delight in that, that hath no savor? meaning, that none take pleasure in affliction, seeing they cannot [do] away with things that are unsavory to the mouth.

517 Job 7:9

were sorrows, are my meat. 8 Oh that I might have my 1desire, and that God would grant me the thing that I long for! 9 That is, that God would destroy me: that he would let his hand go, and cut me off. 10 Then should I yet have comfort, (though I burn with sorrow, let him not spare) 1because I have not denied the words of the Holy one. 11 What power have I that I should endure? or what is mine 1end, if I should prolong my life? 12 Is my strength the strength of stones? or is my flesh of brass? 13 Is it not so, that there is in me no 1help? and that 2strength is taken from me? 14 He that is in misery, ought to be comforted of his neighbor: but men have forsaken the fear of the Almighty. 15 My brethren have deceived me as a 1brook, and as the rising of the rivers they pass away. 16 Which are blackish with ice, and wherein the snow is hid. 17 But in time they are dried up with heat and are consumed: and when it is hot they fail out of their places, 18 Or they depart from their way and course, yea, they vanish and perish. 19 They that go to Tema, 1considered them, and they that go to Sheba, waited for them. 20 But they were confounded: when they hoped, they came thither, and were ashamed. 21 Surely now are ye like 1unto it: ye have seen my fearful plague, and are afraid. 22 Was it because I said, Bring unto me? or give a reward to me of your 1substance? 23 And deliver me from the enemy's hand, or ransom me out of the hand of tyrants? 24 Teach me, and I will 1hold my tongue: and

cause me to understand, wherein I have erred. 25 How 1steadfast are the words of righteousness? and what can any of you justly reprove? 26 Do ye imagine to reprove 1words, that the talk of the afflicted should be as the wind? 27 Ye make your wrath to fall upon the fatherless, and dig a pit for your friend. 28 Now therefore be content to 1look upon me: for I will not lie before your face. 29 Turn, I pray you, let there be none iniquity: return, I say, and ye shall see yet my righteousness in that behalf. Is there iniquity in my tongue? doth not my mouth feel sorrows? 7 1 Job showeth the shortness and misery of man's life.

1 Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth? and are not his days as the days of an 1hireling? 2 As a servant longeth for the shadow, and as an hireling looketh for the end of his work, 3 So have I had as an inheritance the 1months of vanity, and painful nights have been appointed unto me. 4 If I laid me down, I said, When shall I arise? and measuring the evening, I am even full with tossing to and fro unto the dawning of the day. 5 My flesh is 1clothed with worms and filthiness of the dust: my skin is rent, and become horrible. 6 My days are swifter than 1a weaver's shuttle, and they are spent without hope. 7 Remember that my life is but a wind, and that mine eye shall not return to see pleasure. 8 The eye that hath seen me, shall see me no more: thine eyes are upon me, and I shall be no longer. 9 1As the cloud vanisheth and goeth away, so he that goeth down to the grave, shall 2come up no more.

6:8 1 Herein he sinneth double, both in wishing through impatience to die, and also in desiring of God a thing which was not agreeable to his will. 6:10 1 That is, let me die at once, before I come to distrust in God's promise through my impatience. 6:11 1 He fearest lest he should be brought to inconveniences, if his sorrows should continue. 6:13 1 Have I not sought to help myself as much as was possible? 2 Or, wisdom, or law. 6:15 1 He compareth those friends which comfort us not in misery, to a brook, which in summer, when we need water, is dry, in winter is hard frozen, and in the time of rain, when we have no need, over­ floweth with water. 6:19 1 They that pass thereby to go into the hot countries of Ara­ bia, think to find water there to quench their thirst, but they are deceived. 6:21 1 That is, like to this brook which deceiveth them that think to have water there in their need, as I looked for consolation at your hands. 6:22 1 He toucheth the worldlings, which for necessity will give part of their goods, and much more these men, which would not give

him comfortable words. 6:24 1 Show me wherein I have erred, and I will confess my fault. 6:25 1 He that hath a good conscience doth not shrink at the sharp words or reasonings of others, except they be able to persuade him by reason. 6:26 1 Do you cavil at my words because I should be thought to speak foolishly, which am now in misery? 6:28 1 Consider whether I speak as one that is driven to this impa­ tience through very sorrow, or as an hypocrite as you condemn me. 7:1 1 Hath not an hired servant some rest and ease? then in this my continual torment I am worse than an hireling. 7:3 1 My sorrow hath continued from month to month, and I have looked for hope in vain. 7:5 1 This signifieth that his disease was rare and most horrible. 7:6 1 Thus he speaketh in respect of the brevity of man's life, which passeth without hope of returning: in consideration whereof he desireth God to have compassion on him. 7:9 1 If thou behold me in thine anger, I shall not be able to stand in thy presence. 2 Shall no more enjoy this mortal life.

Job 7:10 518

10 He shall return no more to his house, neither shall his place know him anymore. 11 Therefore I will not 1spare my mouth, but will speak in the trouble of my spirit, and muse in the bitterness of my mind. 12 Am I a sea 1or a whalefish, that thou keepest me in ward? 13 When I say, My couch shall relieve me, and my bed shall bring comfort in my meditation, 14 Then fearest thou me 1with dreams, and astonishest me with visions. 15 Therefore my soul 1chooseth rather to be strangled and to die, than to be in my bones. 16 I abhor it: I shall not live always: 1spare me then, for my days are but vanity. 17 What is man, that thou 1dost magnify him, and that thou settest thine heart upon him? 18 And dost visit him every morning, and triest him every moment? 19 How long will it be ere thou depart from me? thou wilt not let me alone while I may swallow my spittle. 20 I have 1sinned, what shall I do unto thee? O thou preserver of men, why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden unto myself? 21 And why dost thou not pardon my trespass? and take away mine iniquity? for now shall I sleep in the dust, and if thou seek me in the morning, I shall 1not be found. 8 1 Bildad showeth that Job is a sinner, because that God punisheth the wicked, and preserveth the good.

wind? 3 Doth God pervert judgment? or doth the Almighty subvert justice? 4 If thy sons have sinned against him, and he hath sent them into the place of their 1iniquity, 5 Yet if thou 1wilt early seek unto God, and pray to the Almighty, 6 If thou be pure and upright, then surely he will awake up unto thee, and he will make the habitation of thy righteousness prosperous. 7 And though thy beginning 1be small, yet thy latter end shall greatly increase. 8 1Inquire therefore, I pray thee, of the former age, and prepare thyself to search of their fathers. 9 (For we are but 1of yesterday, and are ignorant: for our days upon earth are but a shadow) 10 Shall not they teach thee and tell thee, and utter the words of their heart? 11 Can a rush 1grow without mire? or can the grass grow without water? 12 Though it were in green and not cut down, yet shall it wither before any other herb. 13 So are the paths of all that forget God, and the hypocrite's hope shall perish. 14 His confidence also shall be cut off, and his trust shall be as the house of a 1spider. 15 He shall lean upon his house, but it shall not stand: he shall hold him fast by it, yet shall it not endure. 16 The 1tree is green before the Sun, and the branches spread over the garden thereof. 17 The roots thereof are wrapped about the fountain, and are folded about the house of stones. 18 If any pluck it from his place, and it 1deny, saying, I have not seen thee,

1 Then answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said, 2 How long wilt thou talk of these things? and how long shall the words of thy mouth 1be as a mighty

7:11 1 Seeing I can by none other means comfort myself, I will declare my grief by words, and thus he speaketh as one overcome with grief of mind. 7:12 1 Am not I a poor wretch? what needest thou then to lay so much pain on me? 7:14 1 So that I can have no rest, night nor day. 7:15 1 He speaketh as one overcome with sorrow, and not of judg­ ment, or of the examination of his faith. 7:16 1 Seeing my term of life is so short, let me have some rest and ease. 7:17 1 Seeing that man of himself is so vile, why dost thou give him that honor to contend against him? Job useth all kinds of persuasion with God, that he might stay his hand. 7:20 1 After all tentations faith bursteth forth and leadeth Job to repentance: yet it was not in such perfection, that he could bridle himself from reasoning with God, because that he still tried his faith. 7:21 1 That is, I shall be dead. 8:2 1 He declareth that their words which would diminish anything from the justice of God, is but as a puff of wind that vanisheth away. 8:4 1 That is, hath rewarded them according to their iniquity: mean­

ing, that Job ought to be warned by the example of his children, that he offend not God. 8:5 1 That is, if thou turn betime while God calleth thee to repen­ tance. 8:7 1 Though the beginnings be not so pleasant as thou wouldest desire, yet in the end thou shalt have sufficient occasion to content thyself. 8:8 1 He willeth Job to examine all antiquity, and he shall find it true which he here saith. 8:9 1 Meaning, that it is not enough to have the experience of ourselves, but to be confirmed by the examples of them that went before us. 8:11 1 As a rush cannot grow without moistness, so cannot the hypocrite, because he hath not faith, which is moistened with God's Spirit. 8:14 1 Which is today, and tomorrow swept away. 8:16 1 He compareth the just to a tree, which although it be removed out of one place unto another, yet flourisheth: so the affliction of the godly turneth to their profit. 8:18 1 That is, so that there remain nothing there to prove whether the tree had grown there or no.

519 Job 9:28

19 Behold, it will rejoice 1by this means, that it may grow in another mold. 20 Behold, God will not cast away an upright man, neither will he take the wicked by the hand, 21 Till he have filled thy mouth with 1laughter, and thy lips with joy. 22 They that hate thee, shall be clothed with shame, and the dwelling of the wicked shall not remain. 9 2 Job declareth the mighty power of God, and that man's righteousness is nothing.

13 God 1will not withdraw his anger, and the most mighty helpers 2do stoop under him. 14 How much less shall I answer him? or how should I find out 1my words with him? 15 For though I were just, yet could I 1not answer, but I would make supplication to my Judge. 16 If I 1cry, and he answer me, yet would I not believe, that he heard my voice. 17 For he destroyeth me with a tempest, and woundeth me 1without cause. 18 He will not suffer me to take my breath, but filleth me with bitterness. 19 If we speak of strength, behold, he is 1strong: if we speak of judgment, who shall bring me in to plead? 20 If I should justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: 1if I would be perfect, he shall judge me wicked. 21 Though I were perfect, yet I know not my soul: therefore abhor I my life. 22 This is one point: therefore I said, He destroyeth the 1perfect and the wicked. 23 If the scourge should suddenly 1slay, should God 2laugh at the punishment of the innocent? 24 The earth is given into the hand of the wicked: 1he covereth the faces of the judges thereof: if not, where 2is he? or who is he? 25 My days have been more swift than a post: they have fled, and have seen no good thing. 26 They are passed as with the most swift ships, and as the Eagle that flieth to the prey. 27 If 1I say, I will forget my complaint, I will cease from my wrath, and comfort me, 28 Then I am afraid of all my sorrows, knowing that thou wilt not judge me innocent.

1 Then Job answered, and said, 2 I know verily that it is so: for how should man compared unto God, be 1justified? 3 If he would dispute with him, he could not answer him one thing of 1thousand. 4 He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength: who hath been fierce against him, and hath prospered? 5 He removeth the mountains, and they feel not when he overthroweth them in his wrath. 6 He 1removeth the earth out of her place, that the pillars thereof do shake. 7 He commandeth the Sun, and it riseth not: he closeth up the stars, as under a signet. 8 He himself alone spreadeth out the heavens, and walketh upon the height of the Sea. 9 He maketh the stars 1Arcturus, Orion, and Pleiades, and the climates of the South. 10 He doeth great things, and unsearchable: yea, marvelous things without number. 11 Lo, when he goeth 1by me, I see him not: and when he passeth by, I perceive him not: 12 Behold, when he taketh a prey, 1who can make him to restore it? who shall say unto him, What doest thou?

8:19 1 To be planted in another place, where it may grow at pleasure. 8:21 1 If thou be godly, he will give thee occasion to rejoice, and if not, thine affliction shall increase. 9:2 1 Job here answereth to that point of Eliphaz and Bildad's ora­ tion, touching the justice of God, and his innocency, confessing God to be infinite in justice, and man to be nothing in respect. 9:3 1 Of a thousand things, which God could lay to his charge, man cannot answer him one. 9:6 1 He declareth what is the infirmity of man, by the mighty and incomprehensible power that is in God, showing what he could do if he would set forth his power. 9:9 1 These are the names of certain stars whereby he meaneth that all stars both known and unknown are at his appointment. 9:11 1 I am not able to comprehend his works, which are common and daily before my eyes, much less in those things, which are hid and secret. 9:12 1 He showeth that when God doth execute his power, he doeth it justly, forasmuch as none can control him. 9:13 1 God will not be appeased for ought that man can say for him­ self for his justification. 2 That is, all the reasons that men can lay to approve their cause. 9:14 1 How should I be able to answer him by eloquence? whereby

he noteth his friends, that albeit they were eloquent in talk, yet they felt not in heart, that which they spake. 9:15 1 Meaning, in his own opinion, signifying, that man will some­ times flatter himself to be righteous, which before God is abomination. 9:16 1 While I am in my pangs, I cannot but burst forth into many inconveniences, although I know still that God is just. 9:17 1 I am not able to feel my sins so great, as I feel the weight of his plagues; and this he speaketh to condemn his dullness, and to justify God. 9:19 1 After he hath accused his own weakness, he continueth to justify God and his power. 9:20 1 If I would stand in mine own defense, yet God hath just cause to condemn me, if he examine mine heart and conscience. 9:22 1 If God punish according to his justice, he will destroy as well them, that are counted perfect as them that are wicked. 9:23 1 To wit, the wicked. 2 This is spoken according to our apprehension, as though he would say, If God destroy but the wicked, as Job 5:3, why should he suffer the innocent to be so long tormented by them? 9:24 1 That they cannot see to do justice. 2 That can show the contrary? 9:27 1 I think not to fall into these afflictions, but my sorrows bring me to these manifold infirmities, and my conscience condemneth me.

Job 9:29 520

29 If I be wicked, why 1labor I thus in vain? 30 If I wash 1myself with snow water, and purge mine hands most clean, 31 Yet shalt thou plunge me in the pit, and mine own 1clothes shall make me filthy. 32 For he is not a man as I am, that I should answer him, if we come together to judgment. 33 Neither is there any umpire 1that might lay his hand upon us both. 34 Let him take his rod away from me, and let not his fear astonish me: 35 Then will I speak, and fear him not: 1but because I am not so, I hold me still. 10 1 Job is weary of his life, and setteth out his fragility before God. 20 He desireth him to stay his hand. 22 A description of death.

8 Thine 1hands have made me, and fashioned me wholly round about, and wilt thou destroy me? 9 Remember, I pray thee, that thou hast made me as 1the clay, and wilt thou bring me into dust again? 10 Hast thou not poured me out as milk? and turned me to curds like cheese? 11 Thou hast clothed me with skin and flesh, and joined me together with bones and sinews. 12 Thou hast given me life, and 1grace: and the 2visitation hath preserved my spirit. 13 Though thou hast hid these things in thine heart, yet I know 1that it is so with thee. 14 If I have sinned, then thou wilt straightly look unto me, and wilt not hold me guiltless of mine iniquity. 15 If I have done wickedly, woe unto me: if I have done righteously, I will not 1lift up mine head, being full of confusion, because I see mine affliction. 16 But let it increase: hunt thou me as a lion: return and show thyself 1marvelous upon me. 17 Thou renewest thy plagues against me, and thou increasest thy wrath against me: 1changes and armies of sorrows are against me. 18 Wherefore then hast thou brought me out of the womb? Oh that I had perished, and that none eye had seen me! 19 And that I were as I had not been, but brought from the womb to the grave! 20 Are not my days few? let him 1cease, and leave off from me, that I may take a little comfort, 21 Before I go and shall not 1return, even to the land of darkness and shadow of death: 22 Into a land, I say, dark as darkness itself, and

1 My soul is cut off 1though I live: I will leave my 2complaint upon myself, and will speak in the bitterness of my soul. 2 I will say unto God, 1Condemn me not: show me, wherefore thou contendest with me. 3 Thinkest thou it 1good to oppress me, and to cast off the 2labor of thine hands, and to favor the 3counsel of the wicked? 4 Hast thou 1carnal eyes? or dost thou see as man seeth? 5 Are thy days as man's 1days? or thy years as the time of man, 6 That thou inquirest of mine iniquity, and searchest out my sin? 7 Thou knowest that I cannot do 1wickedly: for none can deliver me out of thine hand.

9:29 1 Why doth not God destroy me at once? thus he speaketh according to the infirmity of the flesh. 9:30 1 Though I seem never so pure in mine own eyes, yet all is but corruption before God. 9:31 1 Whatsoever I would use to cover my filthiness with, shall dis­ close me so much more. 9:33 1 Which might make an accord between God and me, speak­ ing of impatience, and yet confessing God to be just in punishing him. 9:35 1 Signifying that God's judgments keep him in awe. 10:1 1 I am more like to a dead man, than to one that liveth. 2 I will make an ample declaration of my torments, accusing myself and not God. 10:2 1 He would not that God should proceed against him by his secret justice, but by the ordinary means that he punisheth others. 10:3 1 Is it agreeable to thy justice to do me wrong? 2 Wilt thou be without compassion? 3 Wilt thou gratify the wicked and condemn me? 10:4 1 Doest thou this of ignorance? 10:5 1 Art thou inconstant and changeable, as the times, today a friend, tomorrow an enemy? 10:7 1 By affliction thou keepest me as in a prison, and restrainest me from doing evil, neither can any set me at liberty.

10:8 1 In these eight verses following he describeth the mercy of God, in the wonderful creation of man: and thereon groundeth that God should not show himself rigorous against him. 10:9 1 As brittle as a pot of clay. 10:12 1 That is, reason and understanding, and many other gifts, whereby man excelleth all earthly creatures. 2 That is, thy fatherly care and providence whereby thou preservest me, and without the which I should perish straightway. 10:13 1 Though I be not fully able to comprehend these things, yet I must needs confess that it is so. 10:15 1 I will always walk in fear and humility, knowing that none is just before thee. 10:16 1 Job being sore assaulted in this battle between the flesh and the spirit, bursteth out into these affections, wishing rather short days than long pain. 10:17 1 That is, diversity of diseases and in great abundance: show­ ing that God hath infinite means to punish man. 10:20 1 He wisheth that God would leave off his affliction, consider­ ing his great misery and the brevity of his life. 10:21 1 He speaketh thus in the person of a sinner, that is overcome with passions and with the feeling of God's judgments, and therefore cannot apprehend in that state the mercies of God, and comfort of the resurrection.

521 Job 12:8

into the shadow of death, where is none 1order, but the light is there as darkness. 11 1 Job is unjustly reprehended of Zophar. 7 God is incomprehensible. 14 He is merciful to the repentant. 18 Their assurance that live godly.

and let no wickedness dwell in thy Tabernacle. 15 Then truly shalt thou lift up thy 1face without spot, and shalt be stable, and shalt not fear. 16 But thou shalt forget thy misery, and remember it as waters that are past. 17 Thine age also shall appear more clear than the noon day: thou shalt shine and be as the morning. 18 And thou shalt be bold, because there is hope: and thou shalt dig pits, and shalt lie down safely. 19 aFor when thou takest thy rest, none shall make thee afraid: yea, many shall make suit unto thee. 20 But the eyes 1of the wicked shall fail, and their refuge shall perish, and their hope shall be sorrow of mind. 12 2 Job accuseth his friends of ignorance. 7 He declareth the might, and power of God. 17 And how he changeth the course of things.

chapter 11

a Lev. 26:5,6

chapter 12

a Prov. 14:2

1 Then answered Zophar the Naamathite, and said, 2 Should not the multitude of words be answered? or should a great 1talker be justified? 3 Should men hold their peace at thy lies? and when thou mockest others, shall none make thee ashamed? 4 For thou hast said, 1My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in thine eyes. 5 But, oh that God would speak and open his lips against thee! 6 That he might show thee the 1secrets of wisdom how thou hast deserved double, according to right: know therefore that God hath forgotten thee for thine iniquity. 7 Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty to his perfection? 8 The heavens are high, what canst thou do? 1it is deeper than the hell, how canst thou know it? 9 The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and it is broader than the Sea. 10 If he cut off and 1shut up, or gather together, who can turn him back? 11 For he knoweth vain men, and seeth iniquity, and him that understandeth nothing. 12 Yet vain man would be wise, though man newborn is like a wild 1ass colt. 13 If thou 1prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him: 14 If iniquity be in thine 1hand, put it far away,

1 Then Job answered, and said, 2 Indeed because that ye are the people only, 1wisdom must die with you. 3 But I have understanding as well as you, and am not inferior unto you: yea, who knoweth not such things? 4 aI am 1as one mocked of his neighbor, who calleth upon God, and he 2heareth him: the just and the upright is laughed to scorn. 5 1He that is ready to fall, is as a lamp despised in the opinion of the rich. 6 The tabernacles of robbers do prosper, and they are in safety, that provoke God, 1whom God hath enriched with his hand. 7 Ask now the beasts, 1and they shall teach thee, and the fowls of the heaven, and they shall tell thee: 8 Or speak to the earth, and it shall show thee: or the fishes of the sea, and they shall declare unto thee.

10:22 1 No distinction between light and darkness, but where all is very darkness itself. 11:2 1 Should he persuade by his great talk, that he is just? 11:4 1 He chargeth Job with this, that he should say, that the thing which he spake was true, and that he was without sin in the sight of God. 11:6 1 Which is not to stand in justifying of thyself: he signifieth that man will never be overcome, while he reasoneth with another, and therefore God must break off the controversy, and stop man's mouth. 11:8 1 That is, this perfection of God, and if man be not able to com­ prehend the height of the heaven, the depth of hell, the length of the earth, the breadth of the Sea, which are but creatures: how can he attain to the perfection of the Creator? 11:10 1 If God should turn the state of things, and establish a new order in nature, who could control him? 11:12 1 That is, without understanding: so that whatsoever gifts he hath afterward, come of God, and not of nature. 11:13 1 If thou repent, pray unto him. 11:14 1 Renounce thine own evil works, and see that they offend not God, over whom thou hast charge.

11:15 1 He declareth what quietness of conscience and success in all things such shall have, which turn to God by true repentance. 11:20 1 He showeth that contrary things shall come unto them that do not repent. 12:2 1 Because you feel not that which you speak, you think the whole standeth in words, and so flatter yourselves as though none knew anything, or could know but you. 12:4 1 He reproveth these his friends of two faults: the one that they thought they had better knowledge than indeed they had: and the other, that instead of true consolation, they did deride and despise their friend in his adversity. 2 The which neighbor being a mocker and a wicked man, thinketh that no man is in God's favor but he, because he hath all things that he desireth. 12:5 1 As the rich esteem not a light, or torch that goeth out, so is he despised that falleth from prosperity to adversity. 12:6 1 Hebrew, to whom God hath brought in with his hand. 12:7 1 He declareth to them that did dispute against him, that their wisdom is common to all, and such as the very brute beasts do daily teach.

Job 12:9 522

9 Who is ignorant of all these, but that the hand of the Lord hath made these? 10 In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all 1mankind. 11 Doth not the ears 1discern the words, and the mouth taste meat for itself? 12 Among the 1ancient is wisdom, and in the length of days is understanding. 13 With him is wisdom and strength: he hath counsel and understanding. 14 Behold, he will break down, and it cannot be built: he shutteth a man up, and he cannot be loosed. 15 Behold, he withholdeth the waters, and they dry up: but when he sendeth them out, they destroy the earth. 16 With him is strength and wisdom: he that is deceived, and that 1deceiveth, are his. 17 He causeth the counselors to go as spoiled, and maketh the judges fools. 18 1He looseth 2the collar of kings, and girdeth their loins with a girdle. 19 He leadeth away the princes as a prey, and overthroweth the mighty. 20 He taketh away the speech from the 1faithful counselors, and taketh away the judgment of the ancient. 21 He poureth contempt upon princes, and maketh the strength of the mighty weak. 22 He discovereth the deep places from their darkness, and bringeth forth the shadow of death to light. 23 He 1increaseth the people, and destroyeth them: he enlargeth the nations, and bringeth them in again. 24 He taketh away the hearts of them that are the chief over the people of the earth, and maketh them to wander in the wilderness out of the way. 25 They grope in the dark without light: and he

maketh them to stagger like a drunken man. 13 3 Job compareth his knowledge with the experience of his friends. 16 The penitent shall be saved, and the hypocrite condemned, 20 He prayeth unto God, that he would not handle him rigorously.

1 Lo, mine eye hath seen all this: mine ear hath heard, and understood it. 2 I know also as much as you know: I am not inferior unto you. 3 But I will speak to the Almighty, and I desire 1to dispute with God. 4 For indeed ye forge lies, and all you are 1physicians of no value. 5 Oh, that you would hold your tongue, that it might be imputed to you for wisdom! 6 Now hear my disputation, and give ear to the arguments of my lips. 7 Will ye speak 1wickedly for God's defense, and talk deceitfully for his cause? 8 Will ye accept his person? or will ye contend for God? 9 Is it well that he should seek of you? will you make a lie for him, as one lieth for a man? 10 He will surely reprove you, if ye do secretly accept any person. 11 Shall not his excellency make you afraid? and his fear fall upon you? 12 Your 1memories may be compared unto ashes, and your bodies unto bodies of clay. 13 Hold your tongues in my presence, that I may speak, and let come upon what will. 14 Wherefore do I 1take my flesh in my teeth, and put my soul in my hand? 15 Lo, though he slay me, yet will I trust in him, and I will reprove my ways in his sight. 16 He shall be my salvation also: for the 1hypocrite shall not come before him. 17 Hear diligently my words, and mark my talk.

12:10 1 Or, flesh. 12:11 1 He exhorteth them to be wise in judging, and as well to know the right use why God hath given them ears, as he hath done a mouth. 12:12 1 Though men by age, and continuance of time attain to wisdom, yet it is not comparable to God's wisdom, nor able to com­ prehend his judgments, wherein he answereth to that which was alleged, Job 8:8. 12:16 1 He showeth that there is nothing done in this world without God's will and ordinance, for else he should not be Almighty. 12:18 1 He taketh wisdom from them. 2 He abateth the honor of princes, and bringeth them into the subjection of others. 12:20 1 He causeth that their words have no credit, which is when he will punish sin. 12:23 1 In this discourse of God's wonderful works, Job showeth that whatsoever is done in this world both in the order and change of things, is by God's will and appointment: wherein he declareth that

he thinketh well of God, and is as able to set forth his power in words as they that reasoned against, were. 13:3 1 For although he knew that God had a justice, which was manifest in his ordinary working and another in his secret counsel, yet he would utter his affection to God, because he was not able to understand the cause why he did thus punish him. 13:4 1 You do not well apply your medicine to the disease. 13:7 1 He condemneth their zeal, which had not knowledge, neither regarded they to comfort him, but always grated on God's justice, as though it was not evidently seen in Job, except they had undertaken the probation thereof. 13:12 1 Your fame shall come to nothing. 13:14 1 Is not this a manifest sign of mine affliction, and that I do not complain without cause, seeing that I am thus tormented as though I should tear mine own flesh, and put my life in danger? 13:16 1 Whereby he declareth that he is not an hypocrite as they charged him.

523 Job 14:20

18 Behold now: if I prepare me to judgment, I know that I shall be 1justified. 19 Who is he that will plead 1with me? for if I now hold my tongue, I 2die. 20 But do not these two things unto me: then will I not hide myself from thee. 21 1Withdraw thine hand from me, and let not thy fear make me afraid. 22 Then call thou, and I will answer: or let me speak, and answer thou me. 23 How many are 1mine iniquities and sins, show me my rebellion and my sin. 24 Wherefore hidest thou thy face, and takest me for thine enemy? 25 Wilt thou break a leaf driven to and fro? and wilt thou pursue the dry stubble? 26 For thou writest bitter things against me, and makest me to possess the 1iniquities of my youth. 27 Thou puttest my feet also in the 1stocks, and lookest narrowly unto all my paths, and makest the print thereof in the 2heels of my feet. 28 Such a one consumeth like a rotten thing, and as a garment that is moth-eaten. 14 1 Job describeth the shortness and misery of the life of man. 14 Hope sustaineth the godly. 21 The condition of man's life.

bound, which he cannot pass. 6 Turn from him that he may cease until his desired day, 1as an hireling. 7 For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will yet sprout, and the branches thereof will not cease. 8 Though the root of it wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof be dead in the ground, 9 Yet by the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant. 10 1But man is sick, and dieth, and man perisheth, and where is he? 11 As the waters pass from the sea, and as the flood decayeth and drieth up, 12 So man sleepeth and riseth not: for he shall not wake again, nor be raised from his sleep till the heaven be no more. 13 Oh that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, and keep me secret, until thy 1wrath were past, and wouldest give me term, and 2remember me! 14 If a man die, shall he live again? All the days of mine appointed time will I wait, till 1my changing shall come. 15 Thou shalt call me, and I will 1answer thee: thou lovest the work of thine own hands. 16 But now thou cnumberest my steps, and doest not delay my sins. 17 Mine iniquity is sealed up, as in a 1bag, and thou addest unto my wickedness. 18 And surely as the mountain that falleth, cometh to nought, and the 1rock that is removed from his place: 19 As the water breaketh the stones, when thou overflowest the things which grow in the dust of the earth: so thou destroyest the hope of man. 20 Thou prevailest always against him, so that he passeth away: he changeth his face when thou castest him away.

chapter 14

a Job 8:9

Ps. 144:4

b Ps. 51:5,7

c Prov. 5:21

1 Man 1that is born of woman, is of short continuance and full of trouble. 2 He shooteth forth as a flower, and is cut down: he vanisheth also as a ashadow, and continueth not. 3 And yet thou openest thine eyes upon such 1one, and causest me to enter into judgment with thee. 4 bWho can bring a clean thing out of filthiness? there is not one. 5 Are not his days determined? the number of his months are with thee: thou hast appointed his

13:18 1 That is, cleared and not cast off for my sins, as you reason. 13:19 1 To prove that God doth thus punish me for my sins. 2 If I defend not my cause, every man will condemn me. 13:21 1 He showeth what these two things are. 13:23 1 His pangs thus move him to reason with God, not deny­ ing but that he had sinned: but he desired to understand what were his great sins that had deserved such rigor, wherein he offended that he would know a cause of God why he did pun­ ish him. 13:26 1 Thou punishest me now for the faults that I committed in my youth. 13:27 1 Thou makest me thy prisoner, and dost so press me that I cannot stir hand nor foot. 2 Hebrew, roots. 14:1 1 Taking occasion of his adversary's words, he describeth the state of man's life from his birth to his death. 14:3 1 His meaning is, that seeing that man is so frail a creature, God should not handle him so extremely, wherein Job showeth the wick­ edness of the flesh, when it is not subject to the Spirit.

14:6 1 Until the time that thou hast appointed for him to die, which he desireth as the hireling waiteth for the end of his labor to receive his wages. 14:10 1 He speaketh not here as though he had not hope of the immortality, but as a man in extreme pain, when reason is overcome by affections and torments. 14:13 1 Hereby he declareth that the fear of God's judgment was the cause why he desired to die. 2 That is, release my pains and take me to mercy. 14:14 1 Meaning, unto the day of the resurrection when he should be changed, and renewed. 14:15 1 Though I be afflicted in this life, yet in the resurrection I shall feel thy mercies and answer when thou callest me. 14:17 1 Thou layest them all together, and sufferest none of my sins unpunished. 14:18 1 He murmureth through the impatience of the flesh against God, as though he used as great severity against him as against the hard rocks, or waters that overflow, so that hereby all the occasion of his hope is taken away.

Job 14:21 524

21 And he knoweth not if his sons shall be honorable, neither shall he understand concerning them, whether they shall be of low degree, 22 But while his 1flesh is upon him, he shall be sorrowful, and while his soul is in him, it shall mourn. 15 1 Eliphaz reprehendeth Job, because he ascribeth wisdom and pureness to himself. 16 He describeth the curse that falleth on the wicked, reckoning Job to be one of the number.

15 Behold, he found no steadfastness in his Saints: yea, the heavens are not clean in his sight. 16 How much more is man abominable, and filthy, which 1drinketh iniquity like water? 17 I will tell thee: hear me, and I will declare that which I have seen: 18 Which wise men have told, as they have heard of their fathers, and have not kept it secret: 19 To whom alone the land was 1given, and no stranger passed through them. 20 The wicked man is continually as one that travaileth of child, and the number 1of years is hid from the tyrant. 21 A sound of fear is in his ears, and in his prosperity the destroyer shall come upon him. 22 He believeth not to return out of 1darkness: for he seeth the sword before him. 23 He wandereth 1to and fro for bread where he may: he knoweth that the day of darkness is prepared at hand. 24 Affliction and 1anguish shall make him afraid: they shall prevail against him as a king ready to the battle. 25 For he hath stretched out his hand against God, and made himself strong against the Almighty. 26 Therefore God shall run upon him, even upon his neck, and against the most thick part of his shield. 27 Because he hath covered his face with 1his fatness, and hath collops in his flank. 28 Though he dwell 1in desolate cities, and in houses which no man inhabiteth, but are become heaps, 29 He shall not be rich, neither shall his substance continue, neither shall he prolong the 1perfection thereof in the earth. 30 He shall never depart out of darkness: the flame shall dry up his branches, and he shall go away with the breath of his mouth.

1 Then answered Eliphaz the Temanite, and said, 2 Shall a wise man speak words of the 1wind? and fill his belly 2with the East wind? 3 Shall he dispute with words not comely? or with talk that is not profitable? 4 Surely thou hast cast off 1fear, and restrainest prayer before God: 5 For thy mouth declareth thine iniquity, seeing thou hast chosen the 1tongue of the crafty. 6 Thine own mouth condemneth thee, and not I, and thy lips testify against thee. 7 Art thou the 1first man that was born? and wast thou made before the hills? 8 Hast thou heard the secret counsel of God, and dost thou restrain wisdom 1to thee? 9 What knowest thou that we know not? and understandest that is not in us? 10 With us are both ancient and very aged men, far older than thy father. 11 Seem the consolations of God 1small unto thee? is this thing strange unto thee? 12 Why doth thine heart 1take thee away, and what do thine eyes mean, 13 That thou answerest to God 1at thy pleasure, and bringest such words out of thy mouth? 14 What is man, that he should be clean? and he that is born of woman, that he should 1be just?

14:22 1 Yet while he shall be in pain, and misery. 15:2 1 That is, vain words, and without consolation? 2 Meaning, with matters that are of none importance, which are forgotten as soon as they are uttered, as the East wind drieth up the moisture as soon as it falleth. 15:4 1 He chargeth Job as though his talk caused men to cast off the fear of God, and prayer. 15:5 1 Thou speakest as do the mockers and contemners of God. 15:7 1 That is, the most ancient, and so by reason the most wise? 15:8 1 Art thou only wise? 15:11 1 He accuseth Job's pride and ingratitude, that will not be comforted by God, nor by their counsel. 15:12 1 Why dost thou stand in thine own conceit? 15:13 1 Hebrew, in thy spirit. 15:14 1 His purpose is to prove that Job as an unjust man, and an hypocrite is punished for his sins, like as he did before, Job 4:8. 15:16 1 Which hath a desire to sin, as he that is thirsty to drink. 15:19 1 Who by their wisdom so governed, that no stranger invaded

them, and so the land seemed to be given to them alone. 15:20 1 The cruel man is ever in danger of death, and is never quiet in conscience. 15:22 1 Out of that misery whereunto he once falleth. 15:23 1 God doth not only impoverish the wicked oft times, but even in their prosperity he punisheth them with a greediness ever­ more to gather: which is as a beggary. 15:24 1 He showeth what weapons God useth against the wicked, which lift up themselves against him, to wit, terror of conscience, and outward afflictions. 15:27 1 That is, he was so puffed up with great prosperity and abun­ dance of all things, that he forgat God: noting, that Job in his felicity had not the true fear of God. 15:28 1 Though he build and repair ruinous places to get him fame, yet God shall bring all to naught, and turn his great prosperity into extreme misery. 15:29 1 Meaning, that his sumptuous buildings should never come to perfection.

525 Job 17:2

31 He 1believeth not that he erreth in vanity: therefore vanity shall be his change. 32 His branch shall not be green, but shall be cut off before his day. 33 God shall destroy him as the vine her sour 1grape, and shall cast him off, as the olive doth her flower. 34 For the congregation of the hypocrite shall be desolate, and fire shall devour the houses of 1bribes. 35 For they 1conceive mischief and bring forth vanity, and their belly hath prepared deceit. 16 1 Job moved by the importunacy of his friends, 7 Counteth in what extremity he is. 19 And taketh God to witness of his innocence.

10 They have opened their mouths upon me, and smitten me on the 1cheek in reproach: they gathered themselves together against me. 11 God hath delivered me to the unjust, and hath made me to turn out of the way by the 1hands of the wicked. 12 I was in wealth, but he hath brought me to nought: he hath taken me by the neck and beaten me, and set me as a mark for himself. 13 His 1archers compass me round about: he cutteth my reins, and doth not spare, and poureth my gall 2upon the ground. 14 He hath broken me with one breaking upon another, and runneth upon me like a giant. 15 I have sowed a sackcloth upon my skin, and have abased mine 1horn unto the dust. 16 My face is withered with weeping, and the shadow of death is upon mine eyes, 17 Though there be no wickedness in 1mine hands, and my prayer 2be pure. 18 O earth, cover not thou my 1blood, and let my crying find no place. 19 For lo, now my 1witness is in the heaven, and my record is on high. 20 My friends 1speak eloquently against me: but mine eye poureth out tears unto God. 21 Oh that a man might 1plead with God, as man with his neighbor! 22 For the years accounted come, and I shall go the way, whence I shall not return. 17 1 Job sayeth that he consumeth away, and yet doth patiently abide it. 10 He exhorteth his friends to repentance, 13 showing that he looketh out for death.

1 But Job answered and said, 2 I have oftentimes heard such things: miserable comforters are ye all. 3 Shall there be none end of words of 1wind? or what maketh thee bold so to 2answer? 4 I could also speak as ye do: (but would God your 1soul were in my soul's stead) I could keep you company in speaking, and could 2shake mine head at you, 5 But I would strengthen you 1with my mouth, and the comfort of my lips should assuage your sorrow. 6 Though I speak, my sorrow 1cannot be assuaged: though I cease, what release have I? 7 But now 1he maketh me weary: O God, thou hast made all my 2congregation desolate, 8 And hast made me full of 1wrinkles which is a witness thereof, and my leanness riseth up in me, testifying the same in my face. 9 1His wrath hath torn me, and he hateth me, and gnasheth upon me with his teeth: mine enemy hath sharpened his eyes against me.

1 My breath is corrupt: my days are cut off, and the grave is ready for me. 2 There are none but 1mockers with me, and

15:31 1 He standeth so in his own conceit, that he will give no place to good counsel, therefore his own pride shall bring him to destruction. 15:33 1 As one that gathereth grapes before they be ripe. 15:34 1 Which were built or maintained by powling and bribery. 15:35 1 And therefore all their vain devises shall turn to their own destruction. 16:3 1 Which serve for vain ostentation and for no true comfort. 2 For Eliphaz did reply against Job's answer. 16:4 1 I would you felt that which I do. 2 That is, mock at your misery, as you do at mine. 16:5 1 If this were in my power, yet would I comfort you, and not do as ye do to me. 16:6 1 If they would say, Why dost thou not then comfort thyself? he answereth, that the judgments of God are more heavy than he is able to assuage either by words or silence. 16:7 1 Meaning, God. 2 That is, destroyed most of my family. 16:8 1 In token of sorrow and grief. 16:9 1 That is, God by his wrath: and in this diversity of words

and high style, he expresseth how grievous the hand of God was upon him. 16:10 1 That is, hath handled me most contemptuously: for so smit­ ing on the cheek signified, 1 Kings 22:24; Mark 14:65. 16:11 1 They have led me whither they would. 16:13 1 His manifold afflictions. 2 I am wounded to the heart. 16:15 1 Meaning, his glory was brought low. 16:17 1 Signifying, that he is not able to comprehend the cause of this his grievous punishment. 2 That is, unfeigned, and without hypocrisy. 16:18 1 Let my sin be known if I be such a sinner as mine adversaries accuse me, and let me find no favor. 16:19 1 Though man condemn me, yet God is witness of my cause. 16:20 1 Use painted words instead of true consolation. 16:21 1 Thus by his great torments he is carried away, and breaketh out into passions, and speaketh unadvisedly, as though God should entreat man more gently, seeing he hath but a short time here to live. 17:2 1 Instead of comfort, being now at death's door, he had but them that mocked at him, and discouraged him.

Job 17:3 526

mine eye continueth in 2their bitterness. 3 1Lay down now, and put me in surety for thee: who is he, that 2will touch mine hand? 4 For thou hast hid their heart from 1understanding: therefore shalt thou not set them up on high. 5 1For the eyes of his children shall fail, that speaketh flattery to his friends. 6 He hath also made me a 1byword of the people, and I am as a tabret 2before them. 7 Mine eye therefore is dim for grief, and all my strength is like a shadow. 8 The righteous shall be astonied at 1this, and the innocent shall be moved against the hypocrite. 9 But the righteous will hold his 1way, and he whose hands are pure, shall increase his strength. 10 All 1you therefore turn you, and come now, and I shall not find one wise among you. 11 My days are past, mine enterprises are broken, and the thoughts of mine heart 12 Have changed the 1night for the day, and the light that approached, for darkness. 13 Though I hope, 1yet the grave shall be mine house, and I shall make my bed in the dark. 14 I shall say to corruption, Thou art my 1father, and to the worm, Thou art my mother and my sister. 15 Where is then now mine hope? or who shall consider the thing that I hoped for? 16 1They shall go down into the bottom of the pit: surely it shall lie together in the dust. 18 1 Bildad rehearseth the pains of the unfaithful and wicked.

3 Wherefore are we counted as beasts, and are vile in your sight? 4 Thou art 1as one that teareth his soul in his anger. Shall the 2earth be forsaken for thy sake? or the rock removed out of his place? 5 Yea, the light of the wicked shall be 1quenched, and the spark of his fire shall not shine. 6 The light shall be dark in his dwelling, and his candle shall be put out with him. 7 The steps of his strength shall be restrained, and his own counsel shall cast him down. 8 For he is taken in the net by his feet, and he 1walketh upon the snares. 9 The grenne shall take him by the heel, and the chief shall come upon him. 10 A snare is laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way. 11 Fearfulness shall make him afraid on every side, and shall drive him to his feet. 12 His strength shall be 1famine: and destruction shall be ready at his side. 13 It shall devour the inner parts of his skin, and the 1firstborn of death shall devour his strength. 14 His hope shall be rooted out of his dwelling, and shall cause him to go to the 1king of fear. 15 Fear shall dwell in his house (because it is not 1his) 2and brimstone shall be scattered upon his habitation. 16 His roots shall be dried up beneath, and above shall his branch be cut down. 17 His remembrance shall perish from the earth, and he shall have no name in the street. 18 They shall drive him out of the 1light unto darkness, and chase him out of the world. 19 He shall neither have son nor nephew among

1 Then answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said, 2 When will 1ye make an end of your words? 2cause us to understand, and then we will speak.

17:2 2 I see still that they seek but to vex me. 17:3 1 He reasoneth with God as a man beside himself, to the intent that his cause might be brought to light. 2 And answers for thee? 17:4 1 That these mine afflictions are thy just judgments, though man know not the cause. 17:5 1 He that flattereth a man, and only judgeth him happy in his prosperity, shall not himself only but in his posterity be punished. 17:6 1 God hath made all the world to speak of me, because of mine afflictions. 2 That is, as a continual sound in their ears. 17:8 1 To wit, when they see the godly punished: but in the end they shalt come to understanding, and know what shall be the reward of the hypocrite. 17:9 1 That is, will not be discouraged, considering that the godly are punished as well as the wicked. 17:10 1 Job speaketh to them three that came to comfort him. 17:12 1 That is, have brought me sorrow instead of comfort. 17:13 1 Though I should hope to come from adversity to prosperity, as your discourse pretendeth. 17:14 1 I have no more hope in father, mother, sister, or any worldly

thing: for the dust and worms shall be to me instead of them. 17:16 1 All worldly hope and prosperity fail which you say, are only signs of God's favor: but seeing that these things perish, I set mine hope in God and in the life everlasting. 18:2 1 Which count yourselves just, as Job 12:4. 2 Whom you take to be but beasts, as Job 12:7. 18:4 1 That is, like a madman. 2 Shall God change the order of nature for thy sake, by dealing with thee otherwise than he doth with all men? 18:5 1 When the wicked is in his prosperity, then God changeth his state: and this is his ordinary working for their sins. 18:8 1 Meaning, that the wicked are in continual danger. 18:12 1 That which should nourish him shall be consumed by fam­ ine. 18:13 1 That is, some strong and violent death shall consume his strength: or as the Hebrew word signifieth, his members or parts. 18:14 1 That is, with most great fear. 18:15 1 Meaning, not truly come by. 2 Though all the world would favor him, yet God would destroy him and his. 18:18 1 He shall fall from prosperity to adversity.

527 Job 20:2

his people, nor any posterity in his dwellings. 20 The posterity shall be astonied at his 1day, and fear shall come upon the ancient. 21 Surely such are the habitations of the wicked, and this is the place of him that knoweth not God. 19 2 Job reproveth his friends, 8 and reciteth his miseries and grievous pains. 25 He assureth himself of the general resurrection.

16 I called my servant, but he would not answer, though I prayed him with my mouth. 17 My breath was strange unto my wife, though I prayed her for the children's sake of mine 1own body. 18 The wicked also despised me, and when I rose, they spake against me. 19 All my secret friends abhorred me, and they whom I loved, are turned against me. 20 My bone 1cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I have escaped with the 2skin of my teeth. 21 Have pity upon me: have 1pity upon me, (O ye my friends) for the hand of God hath touched me. 22 Why do ye persecute me, as 1God? and are not satisfied with my 2flesh? 23 Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were written even in a book, 24 And graven with 1an iron pen in lead, or in stone forever! 25 For I am sure that my 1Redeemer liveth, and he shall stand the last on the earth. 26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet shall I see God 1in my flesh. 27 Whom I myself shall see, and mine eyes shall behold, and none other for me, though my reins are consumed within me. 28 But ye said, Why is he persecuted? And there was a 1deep matter in me. 29 Be ye afraid of the sword: for the sword will be 1avenged of wickedness, that ye may know that there is a judgment. 20 1 Zophar showeth, that the wicked and the covetous shall have a short end, 22 though for a time they flourish.

1 But Job answered, and said, 2 How long will ye vex my soul, and torment me with words? 3 Ye have now 1ten times reproached me, and are not ashamed: ye are impudent toward me. 4 And though I had indeed erred, mine error 1remaineth with me. 5 But indeed if ye will advance yourselves against me, and rebuke me for my reproach, 6 Know now, that God hath 1overthrown me, and hath compassed me with his net. 7 Behold, I cry out of violence, but I have none answer: I cry, but there is no judgment. 8 He hath hedged up my way that I cannot 1pass, and he hath set darkness in my paths. 9 He hath spoiled me of mine honor, and taken the 1crown away from mine head. 10 He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and he hath removed mine hope like 1a tree. 11 And he hath kindled his wrath against me, and counteth me as one of his enemies. 12 His 1armies came together, and made their way upon me, and camped about my tabernacle. 13 He hath removed my brethren far from me, and also mine acquaintance were strangers unto me. 14 My neighbors have forsaken me, and my familiars have forgotten me. 15 1They that dwell in mine house, and my maids took me for a stranger: for I was a stranger in their sight.

1 Then answered Zophar the Naamathite, and said, 2 Doubtless my thoughts cause me to answer, and therefore I make haste.

18:20 1 When they shall see what came unto him. 19:3 1 That is, many times, as Neh. 4:12. 19:4 1 That is, I myself shall be punished for it, or you have not yet confuted it. 19:6 1 He bursteth out again into his passions, and declareth still that his affliction cometh of God, though he be not able to feel the cause in himself. 19:8 1 Meaning, out of his afflictions. 19:9 1 Meaning, his children, and whatsoever was dear unto him in this world. 19:10 1 Which is plucked up, and hath no more hope to grow. 19:12 1 His manifold afflictions. 19:15 1 Mine household servants: by all these losses Job showeth that touching the flesh he had great occasion to be moved. 19:17 1 Which were hers and mine. 19:20 1 Besides these great losses and most cruel unkindness, he was touched in his own person, as followeth. 2 All my flesh was consumed.

19:21 1 Seeing I have these just causes to complain, condemn me not as an hypocrite, specially ye which should comfort me. 19:22 1 Is it not enough that God doth punish me, except you by reproaches increase my sorrow? 2 To see my body punished, except ye trouble my mind? 19:24 1 He protesteth that notwithstanding his sore passions his reli­ gion is perfect: and that he is not a blasphemer as they judged him. 19:25 1 I do not so justify myself before the world, but I know that I shall come before the great Judge, who shall be my deliverer and Savior. 19:26 1 Herein Job declareth plainly that he had a full hope, that both the soul and body should enjoy the presence of God in the last resurrection. 19:28 1 Though his friends thought that he was but persecuted of God for his sins, yet he declareth that there was a deeper consider­ ation, to wit, the trial of his faith and patience, and so to be an example for others. 19:29 1 God will be revenged of this hasty judgment, whereby you condemned me.

Job 20:3 528

3 I have heard 1the correction of my reproach: therefore the spirit of mine understanding causeth me to answer. 4 Knowest thou not this of old? and since God placed man upon the earth, 5 That the rejoicing of the wicked is short, and that the joy of the hypocrites is but a moment? 6 Though 1his excellency mount up to the heaven, and his head reach unto the clouds, 7 Yet shall he perish forever like his dung, and they which have seen him, shall say, Where is he? 8 He shall flee away as a dream, and they shall not find him, and shall pass away as a vision of the night. 9 So that the eye which had seen him, shall do so no more, and his place shall see him no more. 10 His children shall 1flatter the poor, and his hands shall 2restore his substance. 11 His bones are full of the sin of his youth, and 1it shall lie down with him in the dust. 12 When wickedness was 1sweet in his mouth, and he hid it under his tongue, 13 And favored it, and would not forsake it, but kept it close in his mouth, 14 Then his meat in his bowels was turned: the gall of Asps was in the midst of him. 15 He hath devoured substance, and he shall vomit it: for God shall draw it out of his belly. 16 He shall suck the 1gall of Asps, and the viper's tongue shall slay him. 17 He shall not see the 1rivers, nor the floods and streams of honey and butter. 18 He shall restore the labor, and shall devour no more: even according to the substance shall be his exchange, 1and he shall enjoy it no more. 19 For he hath undone many: he hath forsaken the poor, and hath spoiled houses which he built not.

20 Surely he shall feel no quietness in his body, neither shall he reserve of that which he desired. 21 There shall none of his 1meat be left: therefore none shall hope for his goods. 22 When he shall be filled with his abundance, he shall be in pain, and the hand 1of all the wicked shall assail him. 23 He shall be about to fill his belly, but God shall send upon him his fierce wrath, 1and shall cause to rain upon him, even upon his meat. 24 He shall flee from the iron weapons, and the bow of steel shall strike him through. 25 The arrow is drawn out, and cometh forth of the 1body, and shineth of his gall, so fear cometh upon him. 26 1All darkness shall be hid in his secret places: the fire that is not 2blown shall devour him, and that which remaineth in his tabernacle shall be destroyed. 27 The heaven shall declare his wickedness, and the earth shall rise up against him. 28 The 1increase of his house shall go away: it shall flow away in the day of his wrath. 29 This is the portion of the wicked man from 1God, and the heritage that he shall have of God, for his 2words. 21 7 Job declareth how the prosperity of the wicked maketh them proud. 15 Insomuch that they blaspheme God. 16 Their destruction is at hand. 23 None ought to be judged wicked for affliction, neither good for prosperity.

1 But Job answered, and said, 2 Hear diligently my words, and this 1shall be instead of your consolations. 3 Suffer me that I may speak, and when I have spoken, mock on. 4 Do I direct my talk to man? If it 1were so, how

20:3 1 He declareth that two things moved him to speak: to wit, because Job seemed to touch him, and because he thought he had knowledge sufficient to confute him. 20:6 1 His purpose is to prove Job to be a wicked man, and an hypo­ crite, because God punished him, and changed his prosperity into adversity. 20:10 1 Whereas the father through ambition and tyranny oppressed the poor, the children through poverty and misery, shall seek favor at the poor. 2 So that the thing which he hath taken away by violence shall be restored again by force. 20:11 1 Meaning, that he shall carry nothing away with him but his sin. 20:12 1 As poison that is sweet in the mouth, bringeth destruction when it cometh into the body: so all vice at the first is pleasant, but afterward God turneth it to destruction. 20:16 1 He compareth evil gotten goods to the venom of Asps, which serpent is most dangerous: noting that Job's great riches were not truly come by and therefore God did plague him justly for the same. 20:17 1 Though God give to all other abundance of his blessings, yet he shall have no part thereof.

20:18 1 That is, these raveners and spoilers of the poor shall enjoy their theft but for a time: for after, God will take it from them, and cause them to make restitution, so that it is but an exchange. 20:21 1 He shall leave nothing to his posterity. 20:22 1 The wicked shall never be in rest: for one wicked man shall seek to destroy another. 20:23 1 Some read, upon his flesh, alluding to Job, whose flesh was smitten with a scab. 20:25 1 Some read, of the quiver. 20:26 1 All fear and sorrow shall light upon him, when he thinketh to escape. 2 That is, fire from heaven, or the fire of God's wrath. 20:28 1 Meaning, the children of the wicked shall flow away like riv­ ers, and be dispersed in divers places. 20:29 1 Thus God will plague the wicked. 2 Against God, thinking to excuse himself, and to escape God's hand. 21:2 1 Your diligent marking of my words shall be to me a great consolation. 21:4 1 As though he would say, I do not talk with man but with God, who will not answer me, and therefore my mind must needs be troubled.

529 Job 22:3

should not my spirit be troubled? 5 Mark me, and be abashed, and lay your hand upon your 1mouth. 6 Even when I remember, I am afraid, and fear taketh hold on my flesh. 7 Wherefore do the wicked 1live, and wax old, and grow in wealth? 8 Their seed is established in their sight with them, and their generation before their eyes. 9 Their houses are peaceable without fear, and the rod of God is not upon them. 10 Their bullock gendereth, and faileth not: their cow calveth, and casteth not her calf. 11 They send forth their children 1like sheep, and their sons dance. 12 They take the tambourine and harp, and rejoice in the sound of the organs. 13 They spend their days in wealth, and suddenly 1they go down to the grave. 14 They say also unto God, Depart from us: for we desire not the 1knowledge of thy ways. 15 Who is the Almighty, that we should serve him? and what profit should we have, if we should pray unto him? 16 Lo, their wealth is not in their 1hand: therefore let the counsel of the wicked 2be far from me. 17 How oft shall the candle of the wicked be put out and their destruction come upon them? he will divide their lives in his wrath. 18 They shall be as stubble before the wind, and as chaff that the storm carrieth away. 19 God will lay up the sorrow of the father for his children: when he rewardeth him, he shall know it. 20 1His eyes shall see his destruction, and he shall drink of the wrath of the Almighty. 21 For what pleasure hath he in his house after him, when the number of his months is cut off? 22 Shall any teach 1God knowledge, who judgeth

the highest things? 23 One 1dieth in his full strength, being in all ease and prosperity. 24 His breasts are full of milk, and his bones run full of marrow. 25 And another 1dieth in the bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with pleasure. 26 They shall sleep both in 1the dust, and the worms shall cover them. 27 Behold, I know your thoughts, and the enterprises wherewith ye do me wrong. 28 For ye say, Where is the prince's 1house? and where is the tabernacle of the wicked's dwelling? 29 May ye 1not ask them that go by the way? and ye cannot deny their signs. 30 But the wicked is kept unto the day of 1destruction, and they shall be brought forth to the day of wrath. 31 Who shall declare his way 1to his face? and who shall reward him for that he hath done? 32 Yet shall he be brought to the grave, and remain in the heap. 33 The 1slimy valley shall be sweet unto him, and every man shall draw after him, as before him there were innumerable. 34 How then comfort 1ye me in vain, seeing in your answer there remain but lies? 22 2 Eliphaz affirmeth that Job is punished for his sins. 6 He accuseth him of unmercifulness. 13 And that he denied God's providence. 21 He exhorteth to repentance.

chapter 22

a Job 35:7

1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered, and said, 2 May a man be 1profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable to himself? 3 aIs it anything unto the Almighty, that thou art

21:5 1 He chargeth them as though they were not able to compre­ hend this his feeling of God's judgment, and exhorteth them there­ fore to silence. 21:7 1 Job proveth against his adversaries that God punisheth not straightways the wicked, but oft times giveth them long life, and prosperity: so that we must not judge God just or unjust by the things that appear to our eyes. 21:11 1 They have store of children, lusty and healthful, and in these points he answereth to that which Zophar alleged before. 21:13 1 Not being tormented with long sickness. 21:14 1 They desire nothing more than to be exempt from all subjec­ tion that they should bear to God: thus Job showeth his adversaries, that if they reason only by that which is seen by common experience, the wicked that hate God, are better dealt withal, than they that love him. 21:16 1 It is not their own, but God only lendeth it unto them. 2 God keep me from their prosperity. 21:20 1 When God recompenseth his wickedness, he shall know that his prosperity was but vanity. 21:22 1 Who sendeth to the wicked prosperity, and punisheth the godly.

21:23 1 Meaning, the wicked. 21:25 1 To wit, the godly. 21:26 1 As concerning their bodies: and this he speaketh according to the common judgment. 21:28 1 Thus they called Job's house in derision, concluding that it was destroyed because he was wicked. 21:29 1 Which through long travailing have experience and tokens thereof, to wit, that the wicked do prosper, and the godly live in affliction. 21:30 1 Though the wicked flourish here, yet God will punish him in the last day. 21:31 1 Though men do flatter him, and none dare reprove him in this world, yet death is a token that he will bring him to an account. 21:33 1 He shall be glad to lie in a slimy pit, which before could not be content with a royal palace. 21:34 1 Saying, that the just in this world have prosperity, and the wicked adversity. 22:2 1 Though man were just, yet God could have no profit of this his justice: and therefore when he punished him, he hath no regard to his justice, but to his sin.

Job 22:4 530

righteous? or is it profitable to him, that thou makest thy ways upright? 4 Is it for fear 1of thee that he will accuse thee? or go with thee into judgment? 5 Is not thy wickedness great, and thine iniquities innumerable? 6 For thou hast taken the 1pledge from thy brother for nought, and spoiled the clothes of the naked. 7 To such as were weary, thou hast not given water to drink, and hast withdrawn bread from the hungry. 8 But the mighty man 1had the earth, and he that was in authority, dwelt in it. 9 Thou hast cast out widows empty, and the arms of the 1fatherless were broken. 10 Therefore snares are round about thee, and fear shall suddenly trouble thee. 11 Or darkness that thou shouldest not see, and 1abundance of waters shall cover thee. 12 Is not God on 1high in the heaven? and behold the height of the 2stars how high they are. 13 But thou sayest, How should God 1know? can he judge through the dark cloud? 14 The clouds hide him that he cannot see, and he walketh in the circle of heaven. 15 Hast thou marked the way of the world, 1wherein wicked men have walked? 16 Which were 1cut down before the time, whose foundation was as a river that overflowed: 17 Which said unto God, Depart from us, and asked what the Almighty could do for them. 18 Yet he 1filled their houses with good things: but let the counsel of the wicked be far from me. 19 The righteous shall see them, and shall rejoice, 1and the innocent shall laugh them to scorn. 20 Surely 1our substance is hid: but the fire hath

devoured the remnant of 2them. 21 Therefore acquaint thyself, I pray thee, 1with him, and make peace: thereby thou shalt have prosperity. 22 Receive, I pray thee, the law of his mouth, and lay up his words in thine heart. 23 If thou return to the Almighty, thou shalt 1be built up, and thou shalt put iniquity far from thy tabernacle. 24 Thou shalt lay up gold for 1dust, and the gold of Ophir, as the flints of the rivers. 25 Yea, the Almighty shall be thy defense, and thou shalt have plenty of silver. 26 And thou shalt then delight in the Almighty, and lift up thy face unto God. 27 Thou shalt make thy prayer unto him, and he shall hear thee, and thou shalt render thy vows. 28 Thou shalt also decree a thing, and he shall establish it unto thee, and the 1light shall shine upon thy ways. 29 1When others are cast down, then shalt thou say, I am lifted up: and God shall save the humble person. 30 The innocent shall deliver the 1island, and it shall be preserved by the pureness of thine hands. 23 Job affirmeth that he both knoweth and feareth the power and sentence of the Judge, 10 And that he is not punished only for his sins.

1 But Job answered, and said, 2 Though my talk be this day in 1bitterness, and my plague greater than my groaning, 3 Would God yet I knew how to find him, I would enter unto his place. 4 I would plead the cause before him, and fill my mouth with arguments.

22:4 1 Lest thou shouldest reprove or hurt him? 22:6 1 Thou hast been cruel and without charity, and wouldest do nothing for the poor, but for thine own advantage. 22:8 1 When thou wast in power and authority, thou didst not jus­ tice but wrong. 22:9 1 Thou hast not only not showed pity, but oppressed them. 22:11 1 That is, manifold afflictions. 22:12 1 He accuseth Job of impiety and contempt of God, as though he would say, If thou pass not for men, yet consider the height of God's majesty. 2 That so much the more by that excellent work thou mayest fear God, and reverence him. 22:13 1 He reproveth Job, as though he denied God's providence and that he could not see the things that were done in this world. 22:15 1 How God hath punished them from the beginning? 22:16 1 He proveth God's providence by the punishment of the wicked, whom he taketh away before they can bring their wicked purposes to pass. 22:18 1 He answereth to that which Job had said, Job 21:7, that the wicked have prosperity in this world: desiring that he might not be

partaker of the like. 22:19 1 The just rejoice at the destruction of the wicked for two causes: first, because God showeth himself judge of the world and by this means continueth his honor and glory: secondly, because God showeth that he hath care over his in that he punished their enemies. 22:20 1 That is, the state and preservation of the godly, is hid under God's wings. 2 Meaning, of the wicked. 22:21 1 He exhorteth Job to repentance, and to return to God. 22:23 1 God will restore unto thee all thy substance. 22:24 1 Which shall be in abundance like dust. 22:28 1 That is, the favor of God. 22:29 1 God will deliver his when the wicked are destroyed round about them, as in the flood and in Sodom. 22:30 1 God will deliver a whole country from peril, even for the just man's sake. 23:2 1 He showeth the just cause of his complaining, and as touch­ ing that Eliphaz had exhorteth him to return to God, Job 22:21, he declareth that he desireth nothing more, but it seemed that God would not be found of him.

531 Job 24:15

5 I would know the words, that he would answer me, and would understand what he would say unto me. 6 Would he 1plead against me with his great power? No, but he would 2put strength in me. 7 1There the righteous might reason with him, so I should be delivered forever from my Judge. 8 1Behold, if I go to the East, he is not there: if to the West, yet I cannot perceive him: 9 If to the North where he worketh, yet I cannot see him: he will hide himself in the South, and I cannot behold him. 10 But he knoweth my 1way, and trieth me, and I shall come forth like gold. 11 My foot hath followed his steps: his way have I kept, and have not declined: 12 Neither have I departed from the commandment of his lips, and I have 1esteemed the words of his mouth more than mine appointed food. 13 Yet he is in one mind, and who can 1turn him? yea, he doeth what his mind desireth. 14 For he will perform that which is decreed of me, and 1many such things are with him. 15 Therefore I am troubled at his presence, and in considering it, I am afraid of him. 16 For 1God hath softened mine heart, and the Almighty hath troubled me. 17 For I am not cut off in 1darkness, but he hath hid the darkness from my face. 24 2 Job describeth the wickedness of men, and showeth what curse belongeth to the wicked. 12 How all things are governed by God's providence. 17 And the destruction of the wicked.

1 How should not the times 1be hid from the Almighty, seeing that they which know him, see not his 2days? 2 Some remove the landmarks, that rob the flocks and feed thereof. 3 They lead away the ass of the fatherless, and take the widow's ox to pledge. 4 They make the poor to turn out of the way, so that the poor of the earth hide themselves 1together. 5 Behold, others as wild asses in the wilderness, go forth to their business, and 1rise early for a prey: the wilderness 2giveth him and his children food. 6 They reap 1his provision in the field, but they gather the late 2vintage of the wicked. 7 They cause the naked to lodge without garment, and without covering in the cold. 8 They are wet with the showers of the mountains, 1and they embrace the rock for want of a covering. 9 They pluck the fatherless 1from the breast, and take the pledge of 2the poor. 10 They cause him to go naked without clothing, and take the gleaning from the hungry. 11 They that make oil 1between their walls, and tread their winepresses, suffer thirst. 12 Men 1cry out of the city, and the souls of the slain 2cry out: yet God 3doth not charge them with folly. 13 These are they that abhor the 1light: they know not the ways thereof, nor continue in the paths thereof. 14 The murderer riseth early, and killeth the poor and the needy: and in the night he is as a thief. 15 The eye also of the 1adulterer waiteth for the twilight, and saith, None eye shall see me, and disguiseth his face.

23:6 1 Using his absolute power, and saying, because I am God, I may do what I will. 2 Of his mercy he would give me power to answer him. 23:7 1 When he of his mercy hath given strength to maintain their cause. 23:8 1 Meaning, that if he consider God's justice, he is not able to comprehend his judgments on what side or what part soever he turneth himself. 23:10 1 God hath this preeminence about me, that he knoweth my way: to wit, that I am innocent, and I am not able to judge of his works: he showeth also his confidence, that God doth use him for his profit. 23:12 1 His word is more precious unto me, than the meat where­ with the body is sustained. 23:13 1 Job confesseth that at this present he felt not God's favor, and yet was assured that he had appointed him to a good end. 23:14 1 In many points man is not able to attain to God's judgments. 23:16 1 That I should not be without fear. 23:17 1 He showeth the cause of his fear, which is, that he being in trouble seeth none end, neither yet knoweth the cause. 24:1 1 Thus Job speaketh in his passions, and after the judgment of the flesh: that is, that he seeth not the things that are done at times, neither yet hath a peculiar care over all, because he punisheth not

the wicked, nor revengeth the godly. 2 When he punisheth the wicked, and rewardeth the good. 24:4 1 And for cruelty and oppression dare not show their faces. 24:5 1 That is, spareth diligence. 2 He and his live by robbing and murdering. 24:6 1 Meaning, the poor man's. 2 Signifying, that one wicked man will not spoil another, but for necessity. 24:8 1 The poor are driven by the wicked into the rocks and holes where they cannot lie dry for the rain. 24:9 1 That is, they so powle and pill the poor widow, that she can­ not have to sustain herself that she may be able to give her child suck. 2 That is, his garment, wherewith he should be covered or clad. 24:11 1 In such places which are appointed for that purpose: mean­ ing, that those that labor for the wicked, are pined for hunger. 24:12 1 For the great oppression and extortion. 2 Cry out and call for vengeance. 3 God doth not condemn the wicked, but seemeth to pass over it by his long silence. 24:13 1 That is, God's word, because they are reproved thereby. 24:15 1 By these particular vices and the licence thereunto, he would prove that God punished not the wicked, and rewardeth the just.

Job 24:16 532

16 They dig through houses in the dark, which they marked for themselves in the day: they know not the light. 17 But the morning is even to them as the shadow of death: if one know them, they are in the terrors of the shadow of death. 18 He is swift upon the 1waters: their 2portion shall be cursed in the earth: he will not behold the way of the vineyards. 19 As the dry ground and heat consume the snow waters, so shall the grave 1the sinners. 20 1The pitiful man shall forget him: the worm shall feel his sweetness: he shall be no more remembered, and the wicked shall be broken like a tree. 21 He 1doth evil entreat the barren that doth not bear, neither doeth he good to the widow. 22 He draweth also the 1mighty by his power, and when he riseth up, none is sure of life. 23 Though men give him assurance to be in safety, yet his eyes are upon their ways. 24 They are exalted for a little, but they are gone, and are brought low as all others: they are destroyed, and cut off as the top of an ear of corn. 25 But if it be not 1so, where is he? or who will prove me a liar, and make my words of no value? 25 Bildad proveth that no man is clean nor without sin before God.

5 Behold, he will give no light to the Moon, 1and the Stars are unclean in his sight. 6 How much more man, a worm, even the son of man, which is but a worm? 26 Job showeth that man cannot help God, and proveth it by his miracles.

1 But Job answered, and said, 2 1Whom helpest thou? him that hath no power? savest thou the arm that hath no strength? 3 Whom counselest thou? him that hath no wisdom? 1thou showest right well as the thing is. 4 To whom dost thou declare these words? or whose spirit 1cometh out of thee? 5 The 1dead things are formed under the waters, and near unto them. 6 The grave is 1naked before him, and there is no covering for 2destruction. 7 He stretcheth out the 1North over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing. 8 He bindeth the waters in his clouds, and the cloud is not broken under them. 9 He holdeth back the face of his throne, and spreadeth his cloud upon it. 10 He hath set bounds 1about the waters, until the 2day and night come to an end. 11 The 1pillars of heaven tremble and quake at his reproof. 12 The sea is calm by his power, and by his understanding he smiteth the pride thereof. 13 His Spirit hath garnished the heavens, and his hand hath formed the crooked 1serpent. 14 Lo, these are part of his ways: but 1how little a portion hear we of him? and who can understand his fearful power?

1 Then answered Bildad the Shuhite, and said, 2 1Power and fear is with him, that maketh peace in his places. 3 Is there any number in his armies? 1and upon whom shall not 2his light arise? 4 And how may a man 1be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of woman?

24:18 1 He fleeth to the waters for his succor. 2 They think that all the world is bent against them, and dare not go by the high way. 24:19 1 As the dry ground is never full with waters, so will they never cease sinning till they come to the grave. 24:20 1 Though God suffer the wicked for a time, yet their end shall be most vile destruction, and in this point Job commiteth to himself, and showeth his confidence. 24:21 1 He showeth why the wicked shall not be lamented, because he did not pity others. 24:22 1 He declareth that after that the wicked have destroyed the weakest, they will do like to the stranger, and therefore are justly pun­ ished by God's judgments. 24:25 1 That is, that contrary to your reasoning no man can give per­ fect reasons of God's judgments, let me be reproved. 25:2 1 His purpose is to prove that albeit God try and afflict the just, yet soon after he sendeth prosperity, and because he did not so to Job he concludeth that he is wicked. 25:3 1 Who can hide him from his presence? 25:4 1 That is, be just in respect of God? 25:5 1 If God show his power, the Moon and Stars cannot have that light which is given them, much less can man have any excellency,

but of God. 26:2 1 Thou concludest nothing: for neither thou helpest me, which am destitute of all help, neither yet speakest sufficiently on God's behalf, who hath no need of thy defense. 26:3 1 But thou dost not apply it to the purpose. 26:4 1 That is, moveth thee to speak this? 26:5 1 Job beginneth to declare the force of God's power and providence in the mines and metals in the deep places of the earth. 26:6 1 There is nothing hid in the bottom of the earth but he seeth it. 2 Meaning, the grave wherein things putrify. 26:7 1 He causeth the whole heaven to turn about the North pole. 26:10 1 That is, he hid the heavens which are called his throne. 2 So long as this world endureth. 26:11 1 Not that heaven hath pillars to uphold it, but he speaketh by a similitude, as though he would say, The heaven itself is not able to abide his reproach. 26:13 1 Which is a figure of stars fashioned like a serpent, because of the crookedness. 26:14 1 If these few things, which we see daily with our eyes, declare his great power and providence, how much more would they appear, if we were to comprehend all his works?

533 Job 28:9 27 3 The constancy and perfectness of Job. 13 The reward of the wicked and of the tyrants.

17 He may prepare it, but the just shall put it on, and the innocent shall divide the silver. 18 He buildeth his house as the 1moth, and as a lodge that the watchman maketh. 19 When the rich man sleepeth, 1he shall not be gathered to his fathers: they opened their eyes, and he was gone. 20 Terrors shall take him as waters, and a tempest shall carry him away by night. 21 The East wind shall take him away, and he shall depart: and it shall hurl him out of his place. 22 And God shall cast upon him and not spare, though he would fain flee out of his hand. 23 Every man shall clap their hands at him, and hiss at him out of their place. 28 Job showeth that the wisdom of God is unsearchable.

1 Moreover Job proceeded and continued his parable, saying, 2 The living God hath taken away my 1judgment: for the Almighty hath put my soul in bitterness. 3 Yet so long as my breath is in me, and the Spirit of God in my nostrils, 4 1My lips surely shall speak no wickedness, and my tongue shall utter no deceit. 5 God forbid, that I should 1justify you: until I die, I will never take away mine 2innocency from myself. 6 I will keep my righteousness, and will not forsake it: mine heart shall not reprove me of my 1days. 7 Mine enemy shall be as the wicked, and he that riseth against me, as the unrighteous. 8 For what 1hope hath the hypocrite when he hath heaped up riches, if God take away his soul? 9 Will God hear his cry, when trouble cometh upon him? 10 Will he set his delight on the Almighty? will he call upon God at all times? 11 I will teach you what is in the hand of 1God, and I will not conceal that which is with the Almighty. 12 Behold, all ye yourselves 1have seen it: why then do you thus vanish 2vanity? 13 This is the 1portion of a wicked man with God, and the heritage of tyrants, which they shall receive of the Almighty. 14 If his children be in great number, the sword shall destroy them, and his posterity shall not be satisfied with bread. 15 His remnant shall be buried in death, and his widows 1shall not weep. 16 Though he should heap up silver as the dust, and prepare raiment as the clay,

1 The silver surely hath his vein, 1and the gold his palace, where they take it. 2 Iron is taken out of the dust, and brass is molten out of the stone. 3 God putteth an end to darkness, 1and he trieth the perfection of all things: he setteth a bond of darkness, and of the shadow of death. 4 The flood breaketh out against the 1inhabitant, and the waters 2forgotten of the foot, being higher than man, are gone away. 5 Out of the same earth cometh 1bread, and under it, as it were fire is turned up. 6 The stones thereof are a place 1of Sapphires, and the dust of it is gold. 7 There is a path which no fowl hath known, neither hath the kite's eye seen it. 8 The Lion's whelps have not walked it, nor the Lion passed thereby. 9 He putteth his hand upon the 1rocks, and overthroweth the mountains by the roots.

27:2 1 He hath so sore afflicted me, that men cannot judge of mine uprightness: for they judge only by outward signs. 27:4 1 However men judge of me, yet will I not speak contrary to that which I have said, and so do wickedly in betraying the truth. 27:5 1 Which condemns me as a wicked man, because the hand of God is upon me. 2 I will not confess that God doth thus punish me for my sins. 27:6 1 Of my life past. 27:8 1 What advantage hath the dissembler to gain never so much, seeing he shall lose his own soul? 27:11 1 That is, what God reserveth to himself, and whereof he giveth not the knowledge to all. 27:12 1 That is, these secret judgments of God, and yet do not understand them. 2 Why maintain you then this error? 27:13 1 Thus will God order the wicked, and punish him even unto his posterity.

27:15 1 None shall lament him. 27:18 1 Which breedeth in another man's possession or garment, but is soon shaken out. 27:19 1 He meaneth, that the wicked tyrants shall not have a quiet death, nor be buried honorably. 28:1 1 His purpose is to declare that man may attain in this world to divers secrets of nature, but man is never able to comprehend the wisdom of God. 28:3 1 There is nothing but it is compassed within certain limits, and hath an end, but God's wisdom. 28:4 1 Meaning, him that dwelleth thereby. 2 Which a man cannot wade through. 28:5 1 That is, come, and underneath is brimstone or coal, which easily conceiveth fire. 28:6 1 He alludeth to the mines and secrets of nature, which are under the earth, whereinto neither fowls nor beasts can enter. 28:9 1 After that he hath declared the wisdom of God in the secrets of nature he describeth his power.

Job 28:10 534

29 1 Job complaineth of the prosperity of the time past. 7, 21 His authority. 22 Justice and equity.

10 He breaketh rivers in the roots, and his eye seeth every precious thing. 11 He bindeth the floods, that they do not overflow, and the thing that is hid, bringeth he to light. 12 But where is wisdom found? 1and where is the place of understanding? 13 Man knoweth not 1the price thereof: for it is not found in the land of the living. 14 The depth saith, It is not in me: the Sea also saith, It is not with me. 15 1Gold shall not be given for it, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof. 16 It shall not be valued with the wedge of gold of Ophir, nor with the precious onyx, nor the sapphire. 17 The gold nor the crystal shall be equal unto it, nor the exchange shall be for plate of fine gold. 18 No mention shall be made of coral, nor of the 1gabish: for wisdom is more precious than pearls. 19 The Topaz of Ethiopia shall not be equal unto it, neither shall it be valued with the wedge of pure gold. 20 Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding, 21 Seeing it is hid from the eyes of all the living, and is hid from the 1fowls of the heaven? 22 Destruction and death say, We have heard the fame thereof with our ears. 23 But God understandeth the 1way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof. 24 For he beholdeth the ends of the world, and seeth all that is under heaven, 25 To make the weight of the winds and to weigh the waters by measure. 26 When he made a decree for the rain, and a way for the lightning of the thunders, 27 Then did he see it, and counted it: he prepared it, and also considered it. 28 And unto man he said, Behold, athe 1fear of the Lord is wisdom, and to depart from evil is understanding.

chapter 28

a Prov. 1:7

1 So Job proceeded, and continued his parable, saying, 2 Oh that I were as 1in times past, when God preserved me! 3 When his 1light shined upon mine head: and when by his light I walked through the 2darkness, 4 As I was in the days of my youth: when 1God's providence was upon my tabernacle: 5 When the Almighty was yet with me, and my children round about me: 6 when I washed my paths 1with butter, and when the rock poured me out rivers of oil: 7 When I went out to the gate, even to the judgment seat, and when I caused them to prepare my seat in the street. 8 The young men saw me, and 1hid themselves, and the aged arose, and stood up. 9 The princes stayed talk, and laid their hand on their 1mouth. 10 The voice of princes was hid, and their tongue cleaved to the roof of their mouth. 11 And when the 1ear heard me, it blessed me, and when the eye saw me, it gave witness to 2me. 12 For I delivered the 1poor that cried, and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him. 13 1The blessing of him that was ready to perish, came upon me, and I caused the widow's heart to rejoice. 14 I put 1on justice, and it covered me: my judgment was as a robe, and a crown. 15 I was the eyes to the blind, and I was the feet to the lame. 16 I was a father unto the poor, and when I knew not the cause, I sought it out diligently. 17 I brake also the jaws of the unrighteous man, and plucked the prey out of his teeth. 18 Then I said, I shall die in my 1nest, and I shall multiply my days as the sand. 19 For my root is 1spread out by the water, and the dew shall lie upon my branch.

28:12 1 Though God's power and wisdom may be understood in earthly things, yet his heavenly wisdom cannot be attained unto. 28:13 1 It is too high a thing for man to attain unto in this world. 28:15 1 It can neither be bought for gold nor precious stones, but is only the gift of God. 28:18 1 Which is thought to be a kind of precious stone. 28:21 1 Meaning, that there is no natural means whereby man might attain to the heavenly wisdom: which he meaneth by the souls that fly high. 28:23 1 He maketh God only the author of this wisdom, and the giver thereof. 28:28 1 He declareth that man hath so much of this heavenly wis­ dom, as he showeth by fearing God, and departing from evil. 29:2 1 Hebrew, month before. 29:3 1 When I felt his favor.

2 I was free from affliction. 29:4 1 That is, seemed by evident tokens to be more present with me. 29:6 1 By these similitudes he declareth the great prosperity that he was in, so that he had none occasion to be such a sinner as they accused him. 29:8 1 Being ashamed of their lightness and afraid of my gravity. 29:9 1 Acknowledging my wisdom. 29:11 1 All that heard me, praised me. 2 Testifying, that I did good justice. 29:12 1 Because his adversaries did so much charge him with wick­ edness, he is compelled to render account of his life. 29:13 1 That is, I did succor him that was in distress, and so he had cause to praise me. 29:14 1 I delighted to do justice, as others did to wear costly apparel. 29:18 1 That is, at home in my bed without all trouble and unquietness. 29:19 1 My felicity doth increase.

535 Job 30:28

20 My glory shall renew toward me, and my bow shall be restored in mine hand. 21 Unto me men gave ear, and waited, and held their tongue at my counsel. 22 After my words they replied not, and my talk 1dropped upon them. 23 And they waited for me, as for the rain, and they opened their mouth 1as for the latter rain. 24 If I 1laughed on them, they believed it not: neither did they cause the light of my countenance 2to fall. 25 I appointed out 1their way, and did sit as chief, and dwelt as a King in the army, and like him that comforteth the mourners. 30 1 Job complaineth that he is contemned of the most contemptible, 11, 21 because of his adversity and affliction. 23 Death is the house of all flesh.

11 Because that God hath loosed my 1cord and humbled me, 2they have loosed the bridle before me. 12 The youth rise up at my right hand: they have pushed my feet, and have trode on me as on the 1paths of their destruction. 13 They have destroyed my paths: they took pleasure at my calamity, they had no 1help. 14 They came as a great breach of waters, and 1under this calamity they come on heaps. 15 Fear is turned upon me: and they pursue my soul as the wind, and mine health passeth away as a cloud. 16 Therefore my soul is now 1poured out upon me, and the days of affliction have taken hold on me. 17 1It pierceth my bones in the night, and my sinews take no rest. 18 For the great vehemency is my garments changed, which compasseth me about, as the collar of my coat. 19 1He hath cast me into the mire, and I am become like ashes and dust. 20 When I cry unto thee, thou dost not hear me, neither regardest me, when I stand up. 21 Thou turnest thyself 1cruelly against me, and art enemy unto me with the strength of thine hand. 22 Thou takest me up and causest me to ride upon the 1wind, and makest my 2strength to fail. 23 Surely I know that thou wilt bring me to death, and to the house appointed for all the living. 24 Doubtless none can stretch his hand 1unto the grave, though they cry in his destruction. 25 Did not I weep with him that was in trouble? was not my soul in heaviness for the poor? 26 Yet when I looked for good, 1evil came unto me: and when I waited for light, there came darkness. 27 My bowels did boil without rest: for the days of affliction are come upon me. 28 I went mourning 1without sun: I stood up in

1 But now they that are younger than I, 1mock me: yea, they whose fathers I have refused to set with the 2dogs of my flocks. 2 For whereto should the strength of their hands have served me, seeing age 1perished in them? 3 For poverty and famine they were solitary, fleeing into the wilderness, which is dark, desolate and waste. 4 They cut up 1nettles by the bushes, and the juniper roots was their meat. 5 They were 1chased forth from among men: they shouted at them, as at a thief. 6 Therefore they dwelt in the clefts of rivers, in the holes of the earth and rocks. 7 They roared among the bushes, and under the thistles they gathered themselves. 8 They were the children of fools, and the children of villains, which were more vile than the earth. 9 And now am I their 1song, and I am their talk. 10 They abhor me, and flee far from me, and spare not to spit in my face.

29:22 1 That is, was pleasant unto them. 29:23 1 As the dry ground thirsteth for the rain. 29:24 1 That is, they thought it not to be a rest, or they thought not that I would condescend unto them. 2 They were afraid to offend me and cause me to be angry. 29:25 1 I had them at commandment. 30:1 1 That is, mine estate is changed, and whereas before the ancient men were glad to do me reverence, the young men now contemn me. 2 Meaning to be my shepherds, or to keep my dogs. 30:2 1 That is, their fathers died for famine before they came to age. 30:4 1 Or, mallows. 30:5 1 Job showeth that these that mocked him in his affliction, were like to their fathers, wicked and lewd fellows, such as he here describeth. 30:9 1 They make songs of me, and mock at my misery. 30:11 1 God hath taken from me the force, credit, and authority

wherewith I kept them in subjection. 2 He said that the young men when they saw him, hid themselves, as Job 29:8, and now in his misery they were impudent and licentious. 30:12 1 That is, they sought by all means how they might destroy me. 30:13 1 They need none to help them. 30:14 1 By my calamity they took an occasion against me. 30:16 1 My life faileth me, and I am as half dead. 30:17 1 Meaning, sorrow. 30:19 1 That is, God hath brought me into contempt. 30:21 1 He speaketh not thus to accuse God, but to declare the vehemency of his affliction, whereby he was carried beside himself. 30:22 1 He compareth his afflictions to a tempest or whirlwind. 2 Or, wisdom, or law. 30:24 1 None can deliver me thence, though they lament at my death. 30:26 1 Instead of comforting they mocked at me. 30:28 1 Not delighting in any worldly thing, no not so much as in the use of the Sun.

Job 30:29 536

the Congregation 2and cried. 29 I am a brother to the 1Dragons, and a companion to the Ostriches. 30 My skin is black upon me, and my bones are burnt with 1heat. 31 Therefore mine harp is turned to mourning, and mine organs into the voice of them that weep. 31 1 Job reciteth the innocence of his living and number of his virtues, which declareth what ought to be the life of the faithful.

14 What then shall I do when 1God standeth up? and when he shall visit me, what shall I answer? 15 He that hath made me in the womb, hath he not made 1him? hath not he alone fashioned us in the womb? 16 If I restrained the poor of their desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow 1to fail, 17 Or have eaten my morsels alone, and the fatherless hath not eaten thereof, 18 (For from my youth hath he grown up with me 1as with a father, and from my mother's womb have I been a guide unto her.) 19 If I have seen any perish for want of clothing, or any poor without covering, 20 If his loins have not blessed me, because he was warmed with the fleece of my sheep, 21 If I have lifted 1up mine hand against the fatherless, when I saw that I might help him in the gate, 22 Let mine 1arm fall from my shoulder, and mine arm be broken from the bone. 23 For God's punishment was 1fearful unto me, and I could not be delivered from his Highness. 24 If I made gold mine hope, or have said to the wedge of gold, Thou art my confidence, 25 If I rejoiced because my substance was great, or because mine hand had gotten much, 26 If I did behold the 1sun, when it shined, or the moon walking in her brightness, 27 If mine heart did flatter me in secret, or if my mouth did kiss mine 1hand, 28 (This also had been an iniquity to be condemned: for I had denied the God 1above.) 29 If I rejoiced at his destruction that hated me, or was moved to joy when evil came upon him, 30 Neither have I suffered my mouth to sin, by wishing a curse unto his soul. 31 Did not the men of my 1Tabernacle say, Who shall give us of his flesh? we cannot be satisfied. 32 The stranger did not lodge in the street, but I

1 I made a covenant with mine 1eyes: why then should I think on 2a maid? 2 For what portion should I have of God from above? and what inheritance of the almighty from on high? 3 Is not destruction to the wicked, and strange punishment to 1the workers of iniquity? 4 Doth not he behold my ways, and tell all my steps? 5 If I have walked in vanity, or if my foot hath made haste to deceit? 6 Let God weigh me in the just balance, and he shall know my 1uprightness. 7 If my step hath turned out of the way, or mine heart hath 1walked after mine eye, or if any blot hath cleaved to mine hands, 8 Let me sow, and let another 1eat: yea, let my plants be rooted out. 9 If mine heart hath been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at the door of my neighbor, 10 Let my wife 1grind unto another man, and let other men bow down upon her. 11 For this is a wickedness, and iniquity to be condemned. 12 Yea, this is a fire that shall devour 1to destruction, and which shall root out all my increase. 13 If I did contemn the judgment of my servant, and of my maid, when they 1did contend with me,

30:28 2 Lamenting them that were in affliction, and moving others to pity them. 30:29 1 I am like the wild beasts that desire most solitary places. 30:30 1 With the heat of affliction. 31:1 1 I kept my eyes from all wanton looks. 2 Would not God then have punished me? 31:3 1 Job declareth that the fear of God was a bridle to stay him from all wickedness. 31:6 1 He showeth wherein his uprightness standeth, that is, inas­ much as he was blameless before men, and sinned not against the second Table. 31:7 1 That is, hath accomplished the lust of mine eyes. 31:8 1 According to the curse of the law, Deut. 28:33. 31:10 1 Let her be made a slave. 31:12 1 He showeth that albeit man neglect the punishment of adul­ tery, yet the wrath of God will never cease till such be destroyed. 31:13 1 When they thought themselves evil entreated by me.

31:14 1 If I had oppressed others, how should I have escaped God's judgment. 31:15 1 He was moved to show pity unto servants, because they were God's creatures as he was. 31:16 1 By long waiting for her request. 31:18 1 He nourished the fatherless, and maintained the widow's cause. 31:21 1 To oppress him and to do him injury. 31:22 1 Let me rot in pieces. 31:23 1 I refrained not from sinning for fear of men, but because I feared God. 31:26 1 If I was proud of my worldly prosperity and felicity, which is meant by the shining of the sun, and brightness of the moon. 31:27 1 If mine own doings delighted me. 31:28 1 By putting confidence in anything but in him alone. 31:31 1 My servants moved me to be revenged of mine enemy, yet did I never wish him hurt.

537 Job 32:22

opened my doors unto him, that went by the way. 33 If I have hid 1my sins, as Adam, concealing mine iniquity in my bosom, 34 Though I could have made afraid a great multitude, yet the most contemptible of the families did 1fear me: so I kept 2silence, and went not out of the door. 35 Oh that I had some to hear me! behold my 1sign that the Almighty will witness for me: though mine adversary should write a book against me, 36 Would not I take it upon my shoulder, and bind it as a 1crown unto me? 37 I will tell him the number of my goings, and go unto him as to a 1prince. 38 If my land 1cry against me, or the furrows thereof complain together, 39 If I have eaten the fruits thereof without silver: or if I have grieved 1the souls of the masters thereof, 40 Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle in the stead of barley. THE 1WORDS OF JOB ARE ENDED. 32 2 Elihu reproveth them of folly. 8 Age maketh not a man wise, but the spirit of God.

ancient: therefore I doubted, and was afraid to show you mine opinion. 7 For I said, The days 1shall speak, and the multitude of years shall teach wisdom. 8 Surely there is a spirit in man, 1but the inspiration of the Almighty giveth understanding. 9 Great men are not always wise, neither do the aged always understand judgment. 10 Therefore I say, Hear me and I will show also mine opinion. 11 Behold, I did wait upon your words, and hearkened unto your knowledge, while you sought out 1reasons. 12 Yea, when I had considered you, lo, there was none of you that reproved Job, nor answered his words: 13 Lest ye should say, We have 1found wisdom: for God hath cast him down, and no man. 14 Yet hath 1he not directed his words to me, neither will I answer 2him by your words. 15 Then they fearing, answered no more, but left off their talk. 16 When I had waited (for they spake not, but stood still and answered no more) 17 Then answered I in my turn, and I showed mine opinion. 18 For I am full of 1matter, and the spirit within me compelleth me. 19 Behold, my belly is as the wine, which hath no vent, and like the new bottles that burst. 20 Therefore will I speak, that I may take breath: I will open my lips, and will answer. 21 I will not now accept the person of man, 1neither will I give titles to man. 22 For I may not give 1titles, lest my Maker should take me away suddenly. 33 5 Elihu accuseth Job of ignorance. 14 He showeth that God hath divers means to instruct man and to draw him from sin. 19, 29 He afflicteth man and suddenly delivereth

1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he 1esteemed himself just. 2 Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the 1Buzite, of the family of 2Ram, was kindled: his wrath, I say, was kindled against Job, because he justified himself 3more than God. 3 Also his anger was kindled against his three friends, because they could not find an answer, and yet condemned Job. 4 (Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken: for 1they were more ancient in years than he.) 5 So when Elihu saw, that there was none answer in the mouth of the three men, his wrath was kindled. 6 Therefore Elihu the son of Barachel, the Buzite answered and said, I am young in years, and ye are

31:33 1 And not confessed it freely: whereby it is evident that he justified himself before men, and not before God. 31:34 1 That is, I reverenced the most weak and contemned, and was afraid to offend them. 2 I suffered them to speak evil of me, and went not out of my house to revenge it. 31:35 1 This is a sufficient token of my righteousness, that God is my witness and will justify my cause. 31:36 1 Should not this book of his accusations be a praise and com­ mendation to me? 31:37 1 I will make him account of all my life, without fear. 31:38 1 As though I had withheld their wages that labored in it. 31:39 1 Meaning, that he was no briber nor extortioner. 31:40 1 That is, the talk which he had with his three friends. 32:1 1 Hebrew, was just in his own eyes. 32:2 1 Which came of Buz, the son of Nahor, Abraham's brother.

2 Or, as the Chaldean paraphrase readeth, Abram. 3 By making himself innocent, and by charging God of rigor. 32:4 1 That is, the three mentioned before. 32:7 1 Meaning, the ancient, which have experience. 32:8 1 It is a special gift of God that man hath understanding, and cometh neither of nature nor by age. 32:11 1 To prove that Job's affliction came for his sins. 32:13 1 And flatter yourselves, as though you had overcome him. 32:14 1 To wit, Job. 2 He useth almost the like arguments, but without taunting and reproaches. 32:18 1 I have conceived in my mind great store of reasons. 32:21 1 I will neither have regard to riches, credit, nor authority, but will speak the very truth. 32:22 1 The Hebrew word signifieth, to change the name, as to call a fool a wise man: meaning, that he would not cloak the truth to flatter men.

Job 33:1 538

19 He is also stricken with sorrow upon his bed, and the grief of his bones is sore, 20 So that his 1life causeth him to abhor bread, and his soul dainty meat. 21 His flesh faileth that it cannot be seen, and his bones which were not seen, clatter. 22 So his soul draweth to the grave, and his life 1to the buriers. 23 If there be a 1messenger with him, or an interpreter, one of a thousand 2to declare unto man his righteousness, 24 Then will he have 1mercy upon him, and will say, 2Deliver him, that he go not down into the pit: for I have received a reconciliation. 25 Then shall his flesh be 1as fresh as a child's, and shall return as in the days of his youth. 26 He shall pray unto God, and he will be favorable unto him, and he shall see his face with joy: for he will render unto man his 1righteousness. 27 He looketh upon men, and if one say, I have sinned, and 1perverted righteousness, and it did not profit 2me, 28 1He will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light. 29 Lo, all these things will God work 1twice or thrice with a man, 30 That he may turn back his soul from the pit, to be illuminated in the light of the living. 31 Mark well, O Job, and hear me: keep silence and I will speak. 32 If there be 1matter, answer me, and speak: for I desire to 2justify thee. 33 If thou hast not, hear me: hold thy tongue, and I will teach thee wisdom. 34 5 Elihu chargeth Job, that he called himself righteous. 12 He showeth that God is just in his

him. 26 Man being delivered giveth thanks to God.

1 Wherefore, Job, I pray thee, hear my talk, and hearken unto all my words. 2 Behold now, I have opened my mouth: my tongue hath spoken in my mouth. 3 My words are in the uprightness of mine heart, and my lips shall speak pure knowledge. 4 The 1Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life. 5 If thou canst give me answer, prepare thyself and stand before me. 6 Behold, I am according to thy wish in 1God's stead: I am also formed of the clay. 7 Behold, my terror shall not fear thee, neither shall mine hand 1be heavy upon thee. 8 Doubtless thou hast spoken in mine ears, and I have heard the voice of thy words. 9 I am 1clean, without sin: I am innocent and there is none iniquity in me. 10 Lo, he hath found occasions against me, and counted me for his enemy. 11 He hath put my feet in the stocks, and looketh narrowly unto all my paths. 12 Behold, in this hast thou not done right: I will answer thee, that God is greater than man. 13 Why dost thou strive against him? for he doth not 1give account of all his matters. 14 For God speaketh 1once or twice, and one seeth it not. 15 In dreams and 1visions of the night, when sleep falleth upon men, and they sleep upon their beds, 16 Then he openeth the ears of men, even by their corrections, which he 1had sealed, 17 That he might cause man to turn away from his enterprise, and that he might hide the 1pride of man, 18 And keep back his soul from the pit, and that his life should not pass by the sword.

33:4 1 I confess the power of God, and am one of his, therefore thou oughtest to hear me. 33:6 1 Because Job had wished to dispute his cause with God, Job 16:21, so that he might do it without fear, Elihu saith, he will reason in God's stead, whom he needeth not to fear, because he is a man made of the same matter that he is. 33:7 1 I will not handle thee so roughly as these others have done. 33:9 1 He repeateth Job's words, whereby he protested his inno­ cence in divers places, but specially in Job 13, 16 and 30. 33:13 1 The cause of his judgments is not always declared to man. 33:14 1 Though God by sundry examples of his judgments speak unto man, yet the reason thereof is not known: yea and though God should speak, yet is he not understood. 33:15 1 God saith he, speaketh commonly, either by visions to teach us the cause of his judgments, or else by afflictions, or by his messenger. 33:16 1 That is, determined to send upon them. 33:17 1 He showeth for what end God sendeth afflictions: to beat down man's pride, and to turn from evil. 33:20 1 That is, his painful and miserable life.

33:22 1 To them that shall bury him. 33:23 1 A man sent of God to declare his will. 2 A singular man, and as one chosen out of a thousand, which is able to declare the great mercies of God unto sinners: and wherein man's righteousness standeth, which is through the justice of Jesus Christ and faith therein. 33:24 1 He showeth that it is a sure token of God's mercy toward sin­ ners, when he causeth his word to be preached unto them. 2 That is, the minister shall by the preaching of the word pro­ nounce unto him the forgiveness of his sins. 33:25 1 He shall feel God's favor and rejoice: declaring hereby wherein standeth the true joy of the faithful, and that God will restore him to health of body, which is a token of his blessing. 33:26 1 God will forgive his sins, and accept him as just. 33:27 1 That is, done wickedly. 2 But my sins hath been the cause of God's wrath toward me. 33:28 1 God will forgive the penitent sinner. 33:29 1 Meaning, oftentimes, even as oft as a sinner doth repent. 33:32 1 If thou doubt of anything, or see occasion to speak against it. 2 That is, to show thee, wherein man's justification consisteth.

539 Job 34:33

or to princes, Ye are ungodly? 19 How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes, and regardeth not the rich, more than the poor? for they be all the work of his hands. 20 They shall die suddenly, 1and the people shall be troubled at midnight, 2and they shall pass forth and take away the mighty without hand. 21 For his eyes are upon the ways of man, and he seeth all his goings. 22 There is no darkness nor shadow of death, that the workers of iniquity might be hid therein. 23 For he will not lay on man so much, that he should 1enter into judgment with God. 24 He shall break the mighty without 1seeking, and shall set up others in their stead. 25 Therefore shall he declare their 1works: he shall turn the 2night, and they shall be destroyed. 26 He striketh them as wicked men in the places of the 1seers, 27 Because they have turned back from him, and would not consider all his ways: 28 So that they have caused the voice of the poor to 1come unto him, and he hath heard the cry of the afflicted. 29 And when he giveth quietness, who can make trouble? and when he hideth his face, who can behold him, whether it be upon nations, or upon a man only? 30 Because the 1hypocrite doth reign, and because the people are snared. 31 Surely it appertaineth unto God 1to say, I have pardoned, I will not destroy. 32 1But if I see not, teach thou me: if I have done wickedly, I will do no more. 33 Will he perform the thing through 1thee? for thou hast reproved 2it, because that thou hast chosen, and not I: now speak what thou knowest.

judgments. 24 God destroyeth the mighty. 30 By him the hypocrite reigneth.

chapter 34

a Job 26:23

1 Moreover Elihu answered and said, 2 Hear my words, ye 1wise men, and hearken unto me ye that have knowledge. 3 For the ear trieth the words, as the mouth tasteth meat. 4 Let us seek 1judgment among us, and let us know among ourselves what is good. 5 For Job hath said, I am righteous, and God hath taken 1away my judgment. 6 Should I lie in my 1right? my wound of the arrow is 2grievous without my sin. 7 What man is like Job, that drinketh 1scornfulness like water? 8 Which goeth in the 1company of them that work iniquity, and walketh with wicked men? 9 For he hath said, It 1profiteth a man nothing that he should 2walk with God. 10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of wisdom, God forbid that wickedness should be in God, and iniquity in the Almighty. 11 For he will render unto man according to his work, and cause everyone to find according to his way. 12 And certainly God will not do wickedly, neither will the Almighty pervert judgment. 13 Whom ahath he appointed over the earth besides himself? or who hath placed the whole world? 14 If 1he set his heart upon man, and gather unto himself his spirit 2and his breath, 15 All flesh shall perish together, and man shall return unto dust. 16 And if thou hast understanding, hear this, and hearken to the voice of my words. 17 Shall he that hateth judgment, 1govern? and wilt thou judge him wicked that is most just? 18 Wilt thou say unto a king, Thou art 1wicked?

34:2 1 Which are esteemed wise of the world. 34:4 1 Let us examine the matter uprightly. 34:5 1 That is, hath afflicted me without measure. 34:6 1 Should I say, I am wicked, being an innocent? 2 I am sorer punished, than my sin deserveth. 34:7 1 Which is compelled to receive thy reproach and scorns of many for his foolish words. 34:8 1 Meaning, that Job was like to the wicked, because he seemed not to glorify God and submit himself to his judgments. 34:9 1 He wresteth Job's words who said that God's children are oft­ times punished in this world, and the wicked go free. 2 That is, live godly, as Gen. 5:22. 34:14 1 To destroy him. 2 The breath of life which he gave man. 34:17 1 If God were not just, how could he govern the world? 34:18 1 If man of nature fear to speak evil of such as have power, then much more ought they to be afraid to speak evil of God. 34:20 1 When they look not for it. 2 The messengers of visitation that God shall send.

34:23 1 God doth not afflict man above measure, so that he should have occasion to contend with him. 34:24 1 For all his creatures are at hand to serve him, so that he needeth not to seek for any other army. 34:25 1 Make them manifest that they are wicked. 2 Declare the things that were hid. 34:26 1 Meaning, openly in the sight of all men. 34:28 1 By their cruelty and extortion. 34:30 1 When tyrants sit in the throne of justice which under pre­ tence of executing justice are but hypocrites and oppress the people, it is a sign that God hath drawn back his countenance of favor from that place. 34:31 1 Only it belongeth to God to moderate his corrections, and not unto man. 34:32 1 Thus Elihu speaketh in the person of God, as it were mocking Job, because he would be wiser than God. 34:33 1 Will God use thy counsel in doing his works? 2 Thus he speaketh in the person of God, as though Job should choose and refuse affliction at his pleasure.

Job 34:34 540

34 Let men of understanding tell me, and let a wise man hearken unto me. 35 Job hath not spoken of knowledge, neither were his words according to wisdom. 36 I desire that Job may be 1tried, unto the end, touching the answers for wicked men. 37 For he 1addeth rebellion unto his sin, he clappeth his hands among us, and multiplieth his words against God. 35 6 Neither doth godliness profit, or ungodliness hurt God, but man. 13 The wicked cry unto God and are not heard.

the Almighty regard it. 14 Although thou sayest to God, Thou wilt not regard it, 1yet judgment is before him: trust thou in him. 15 But now because his anger hath not visited, nor called to count the evil with great extremity, 16 Therefore Job 1openeth his mouth in vain, and multiplieth words without knowledge. 36 1 Elihu showeth the power of God. 6 And his justice. 9 And wherefore he punisheth. 13 The property of the wicked.

chapter 36

a Isa. 1:19

1 Elihu also proceeded and said, 2 Suffer me a little and I will instruct thee: for I have yet to speak on God's behalf. 3 I will fetch 1my knowledge afar off, and will attribute righteousness unto my maker. 4 For truly my words shall not be false, and he that is 1perfect in knowledge, speaketh with thee. 5 Behold, the mighty God casteth away none that is 1mighty and valiant of courage. 6 He 1maintaineth not the wicked, but he giveth judgment to the afflicted. 7 He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous, but they are with 1kings in the throne, where he placeth them forever: thus they are exalted. 8 And if they be bound in fetters and tied with the cords of affliction, 9 Then will he show them their 1work and their sins, because they have been proud. 10 He openeth also their ear to discipline, and commandeth them that they return from iniquity. 11 aIf they obey and serve him, they shall end their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures: 12 But if they will not obey, they shall pass by the sword and perish 1without knowledge. 13 But the hypocrites 1of heart increase the wrath:

1 Elihu spake moreover, and said, 2 Thinkest thou this right, that thou hast said, I am 1more righteous than God? 3 For thou hast said, What profiteth it thee, and what availeth it me, to purge me from my sin? 4 Therefore will I answer thee, and thy 1companions with thee. 5 Look unto the heaven, and see and behold the 1clouds which are higher than thou. 6 If thou sinnest, what doest thou 1against him, yea, when thy sins be many, what doest thou unto him? 7 If thou be righteous, what givest thou unto him? or what receiveth he at thine hand? 8 Thy wickedness may hurt a man as thou art: and thy righteousness may profit the son of man. 9 They cause many that are oppressed, 1to cry, which cry out for the violence of the mighty. 10 But none saith, Where is God that made me, which giveth songs in the night? 11 Which teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth, and giveth us more wisdom than the fowls of the heaven. 12 Then they cry because of the violence of the wicked, 1but he answereth not. 13 Surely God will not hear vanity, neither will

34:36 1 That he may speak as much as he can, that we may answer him and all the wicked that shall use such arguments. 34:37 1 He standeth stubbornly in the maintenance of his cause. 35:2 1 Job never spake these words: but because he maintained his innocence, it seemed as though he would say, that God tormented him without just cause. 35:4 1 Such as are in the like error. 35:5 1 If thou canst not control the clouds, wilt thou presume to instruct God? 35:6 1 Neither doth thy sin hurt God, nor thy justice profit him: for he will be glorified without thee. 35:9 1 The wicked may hurt man and cause him to cry, who if he sought to God which sendeth comfort should be delivered. 35:12 1 Because they pray not in faith, as feeling God's mercies. 35:14 1 God is just, howsoever thou judgest of him. 35:16 1 For if he did punish thee as thou deservest, thou shouldest

not be able to open thy mouth. 36:3 1 He showeth that when we speak of God, we must lift up our spirits more high, than our natural sense is able to reach. 36:4 1 Thou shalt perceive that I am a faithful instructor, and that I speak to thee in the name of God. 36:5 1 Strong and constant, and of understanding: for these are the gifts of God, and he loveth them in man: but forasmuch as God pun­ ished now Job, it is a sign that these are not in him. 36:6 1 Therefore he will not preserve the wicked: but to the humble and afflicted heart he will show grace. 36:7 1 He preferreth the godly to honor. 36:9 1 He will move their hearts to feel their sins that they may come to him by repentance as he did Manasseh. 36:12 1 That is, in their folly or obstination, and so shall be cause of their own destruction. 36:13 1 Which are maliciously bent against God, and flatter them­ selves in their vices.

541 Job 37:11

for they 2call not when he bindeth them. 14 Their soul dieth in 1youth, and their life among the whoremongers. 15 He delivereth the poor in his afflictions, and openeth their ear in trouble. 16 Even so would he have taken thee out of the straight place into a broad place, and not shut up beneath: and 1that which resteth upon thy table had been full of fat. 17 But thou art full of the 1judgment of the wicked, though judgment and equity maintain all things. 18 1For God's wrath is, lest he should take thee away in thine abundance: for no multitude of gifts can deliver thee. 19 Will he regard thy riches? he regardeth not gold, nor all them that excel in strength. 20 1Be not careful in the night, how he destroyeth the people out of their place. 21 Take thou heed: look not to 1iniquity: for thou hast chosen it rather than affliction. 22 Behold, God exalteth by his power: what teacher is like him? 23 Who hath appointed to him his way? or who can say, Thou hast done wickedly? 24 Remember that thou magnify his work, which men behold. 25 All men see it, and men behold it 1afar off. 26 Behold, God is excellent, 1and we know him not, neither can the number of his years be searched out. 27 When he restraineth the drops of water, the rain 1poureth down by the vapor thereof, 28 Which rain the clouds do drop and let fall abundantly upon man. 29 Who can know the divisions of the clouds, and the thunders of his 1Tabernacle? 30 Behold, he spreadeth his light upon 1it, and

covereth the 2bottom of the sea. 31 For thereby he judgeth 1the people, and giveth meat abundantly. 32 He covereth the light with the clouds, and commanded them to go 1against it. 33 1His companion showeth him therefore, and there is anger in rising up. 37 1 Elihu proveth that the unsearchable wisdom of God is manifest by his works. 4 As by the thunders. 6 The snow. 9 The whirlwind. 11 And the rain.

1 At this also mine heart is 1astonied, and is moved out of his place. 2 Hear the 1sound of his voice, and the noise that goeth out of his mouth. 3 He directeth it under the whole heaven, and his light unto the ends of the world. 4 After it a noise soundeth: he thundereth with the voice of his majesty, and he will not stay 1them when his voice is heard. 5 God thundereth marvelously with his voice: he worketh great things, which we know not. 6 For he saith to the snow, Be thou upon the earth 1likewise to the small rain and to the great rain of his power. 7 With the force thereof he 1shutteth up every man, that all men may know his work. 8 Then the beasts go into the den, and remain in their places. 9 The whirlwind cometh out of the South, and the cold from the 1North wind. 10 At the breath of God the frost is given, and the breadth of the waters 1is made narrow. 11 He maketh also the clouds to 1labor, to water the earth, and scattereth the cloud of 2his light.

2 When they are in affliction, they seek not to God for succor, as Asa in 2 Chron. 16:12; Rev.16:11. 36:14 1 They die of some vile death, and that before they come to age. 36:16 1 If thou hadst been obedient to God, he would have brought thee to liberty and wealth. 36:17 1 Thou art altogether after the manner of the wicked: for thou dost murmur against the justice of God. 36:18 1 God doth punish thee, lest thou shouldest forget God in thy wealth and so perish. 36:20 1 Be not thou curious in seeking the cause of God's judg­ ments, when he destroyeth any. 36:21 1 And so murmur against God through impatience. 36:25 1 The works of God are so manifest, that a man may see them afar off, and know God by the same. 36:26 1 Our infirmity hindereth us so, that we cannot attain to the perfect knowledge of God. 36:27 1 That is, the rain cometh of those drops of water, which he keepeth in the clouds. 36:29 1 Meaning, of the clouds, which he calleth the Tabernacle of God. 36:30 1 Upon the cloud. 2 That men cannot come to the knowledge of the springs thereof. 36:31 1 He showeth that the rain hath double use: the one that it

declareth God's judgments, when it doth overflow any places, and the other that it maketh the land fruitful. 36:32 1 That is, one cloud to dash against another. 36:33 1 The cold vapor showeth him: that is, the cloud of the hot exhalation, which being taken in the cold cloud mounteth up toward the place where the fire is, and so anger is engendered: that is, noise, and thunderclaps. 37:1 1 At the marvelling of the thunder and lightnings: whereby he declareth that the faithful are lively touched with the majesty of God, when they behold his works. 37:2 1 That is, the thunder, whereby he speaketh to men to waken their dullness, and to bring them to the consideration of his works. 37:4 1 Meaning, the rains and thunders. 37:6 1 So that neither small rain, nor great, snow nor anything else cometh without God's appointment. 37:7 1 By rains and thunders God causeth men to keep themselves within their houses. 37:9 1 In Hebrew it is called the scattering wind, because it driveth away the clouds and purgeth the air. 37:10 1 That is, is frozen up and dried. 37:11 1 Gather the vapors and move to and fro to water the earth. 2 That is, the cloud that hath lightning in it.

Job 37:12 542

12 And it is turned about by his government, that they may do whatsoever he commandeth them upon the whole world: 13 Whether it be for 1punishment, or for his land, or of mercy, he causeth it to come. 14 Hearken unto this, O Job: stand and consider the wondrous works of God. 15 Didst thou know when God disposed them? and caused the 1light of his cloud to shine? 16 Hast thou known the 1variety of the cloud, and the wondrous works of him that is perfect in knowledge? 17 Or how thy clothes are 1warm, when he maketh the earth quiet through the South wind? 18 Hast thou stretched out the heavens, which are strong, and as a molten 1glass? 19 Tell us what we shall say unto him: for we cannot dispose our matter because of 1darkness. 20 Shall it be 1told him when I speak? or shall man speak when he shall be 2destroyed? 21 And now men see not the light, 1which shineth in the clouds, but the wind passeth and cleanseth them. 22 The 1brightness cometh out of the North: the praise thereof is to God, which is terrible. 23 It is the Almighty: we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power and judgment, and abundant in justice: he 1afflicteth not. 24 Let men therefore fear him: for he will not regard any that are wise in their own conceit. 38 1 God speaketh to Job, and declareth the weakness of man in the consideration of his creatures, by whose excellency the power, justice, and providence of the Creator is known.

1whirlwind, and said, 2 Who is this that 1darkeneth the counsel by words without knowledge? 3 Gird up now thy loins like a man: I 1will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. 4 Where wast thou when I 1laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. 5 Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest, or who hath stretched the line over it: 6 Whereupon are the foundations thereof set: or who laid the cornerstone thereof: 7 When the stars of the morning 1praised me together, and all the 2children of God rejoiced: 8 Or who hath shut up the Sea with doors, when it issued and came forth as out of the womb: 9 When I made the clouds as a covering thereof, and darkness as the 1swaddling bands thereof: 10 When I establisheth my commandment upon it, and set bars and doors, 11 And said, hitherto shalt thou come, but no further, and here shall it 1stay thy proud waves. 12 Hast thou commanded the 1morning since thy days? hast thou caused the morning to know his place? 13 That it might take hold of the corners of the earth, and that the wicked might be 1shaken out of it? 14 It is turned as clay to fashion, 1and all stand up as a garment. 15 And from the wicked their light shall be taken away, and the high arm shall be broken. 16 Hast thou entered into the bottoms of the sea? or hast thou walked to seek out the 1depth? 17 Have the gates of death been opened unto thee? or hast thou seen the gates of the shadow of death? 18 Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth?

1 Then answered the Lord unto Job out of the

37:13 1 Rain, cold, heat, tempests and such like are sent of God, either to punish man, or to profit the earth, or to declare his favor toward man, as Job 36:31. 37:15 1 That is, the lightning to break forth in the clouds? 37:16 1 Which is sometimes changed into rain, or snow, hail, or such like. 37:17 1 Why thy clothes should keep thee warm when the South wind bloweth, rather than when any other wind bloweth? 37:18 1 For their clearness. 37:19 1 That is, our ignorance: signifying that Job was so presumptu­ ous, that he would control the works of God. 37:20 1 Hath God need that any should tell him when man mur­ mureth against him? 2 If God would destroy a man, should he repine? 37:21 1 The cloud stoppeth the shining of the sun, that man cannot see it till the wind have chased away the cloud: and if man be not able to attain to the knowledge of these things, how much less of God's judgments? 37:22 1 In Hebrew, gold, meaning, fair weather and clear as gold. 37:23 1 Meaning, without cause. 38:1 1 That his words might have greater majesty, and that Job might know with whom he had to do.

38:2 1 Which by seeking out the secret counsel of God by man's rea­ son, maketh it more obscure, and showeth his own folly. 38:3 1 Because he had wished to dispute with God, Job 23:3, God reasoneth with him, to declare his rashness. 38:4 1 Seeing he could not judge of those things which were done so long before he was born, he was not able to comprehend all God's works: much less the secret causes of his judgments. 38:7 1 The stars and dumb creatures are said to praise God, because his power, wisdom and goodness is manifest and known therein. 2 Meaning, the Angels. 38:9 1 As though the great sea were but as a little babe in the hands of God to turn to and fro. 38:11 1 That is, God's decree and commandment, as verse 10. 38:12 1 To wit, to rise, since thou wast born? 38:13 1 Who having in the night been given to wickedness, cannot abide the light, but hide themselves. 38:14 1 The earth which seemed in the night to have no form, by the rising of the sun, is as it were created anew, and all things therein clad with new beauty. 38:16 1 If thou art not able to seek out the depth of the sea, how much less art thou able to comprehend the counsel of God?

543 Job 39:18

39 The bounty and providence of God, which extendeth even to the young ravens, giveth man full occasion to put his confidence in God. 37 Job confesseth and humbleth himself.

tell if thou knowest all this. 19 Where is the way where light dwelleth? and where is the place of darkness, 20 That thou 1shouldest receive it in the bounds thereof, and that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof? 21 Knewest thou it, because thou wast then born? and because the number of thy days is great? 22 Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail, 23 Which I have hid 1against the time of trouble, against the day of war and battle? 24 By what way is the light parted, which scattereth the East wind upon the earth? 25 Who hath divided the spouts for the rain? or the way for the lightning of the thunders, 26 To cause it to rain on the earth where no man is, and in the wilderness where there is no man? 27 To fulfill the wild and waste place, and to cause the bud of the herb to spring forth? 28 Who is the father of the rain? or who hath begotten the drops of the dew? 29 Out of whose womb came the ice? who hath engendered the frost of the heaven? 30 The waters are hid 1as with a stone: and the face of the depth is frozen. 31 Canst thou restrain the sweet influences of 1the Pleiades, or loose the bands of 2Orion? 32 Canst thou bring forth 1Mazzaroth in their time? canst thou also guide 2Arcturus with his sons? 33 Knowest thou the course of heaven, or canst thou set the 1rule thereof in the earth? 34 Canst thou lift up thy voice to the clouds, that the abundance of water may cover thee? 35 Canst thou send the lightnings that they may walk, and say unto thee, Lo, here we are? 36 Who hath put wisdom in the 1reins? or who hath given the heart understanding? 37 Who can number clouds by wisdom? or who can cause to cease the 1bottles of heaven, 38 When the earth groweth into hardness, 1and the clots are fast together?

1 Wilt 1thou hunt the prey for the lion? or fill the appetite of the lion's whelps, 2 When they crouch in their places, and remain in the covert to lie in wait? 3 Who prepareth for the raven his meat, when his birds 1cry unto God, wandering for lack of meat? 4 Knowest thou the time when the wild goats bring forth young? or dost thou mark when the 1hinds do calve? 5 Canst thou number the months that they 1fulfill? or knowest thou the time when they bring forth? 6 They bow themselves: they 1bruise their young and cast out their sorrows. 7 Yet their young wax fat, and grow up with corn: they go forth and return not unto them. 8 Who hath set the wild ass at liberty? or who hath loosed the bonds of the wild ass? 9 It is I which have made the wilderness his house, and the 1salt places his dwellings. 10 He derideth the multitude of the city: he heareth not the cry of the driver. 11 He seeketh out the mountain for his pasture, and searcheth after every green thing. 12 Will the unicorn 1serve thee? or will he tarry by thy crib? 13 Canst thou bind the unicorn with his band to labor in the furrow? or will he plow the valleys after thee? 14 Wilt thou trust in him, because his strength is great, and cast off thy labor unto him? 15 Wilt thou believe him, that he will bring home thy seed, and gather it unto thy barn? 16 Hast thou given the pleasant wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich? 17 Which leaveth his eggs in the earth, and maketh them 1hot in the dust, 18 And forgetteth that the foot might scatter them,

38:20 1 That thou mightest appoint it highway and limits. 38:23 1 To punish mine enemies with them, Exod. 9:18; Josh. 10:11. 38:30 1 The ice covereth it, as though it were paved with stone. 38:31 1 Which stars arise when the sun is in Taurus, which is the springtime, and bring flowers. 2 Which star bringeth in winter. 38:32 1 Certain stars so called: some think they were the twelve signs. 2 The North star with those that are about him. 38:33 1 Canst thou cause the heavenly bodies to have any power over the earthly bodies? 38:36 1 In the secret parts of man. 38:37 1 That is, the clouds wherein the water is contained as in bottles. 38:38 1 For when God doth not open these bottles, the earth cometh to this inconvenience.

39:1 1 After he had declared God's works in the heavens, he showeth his marvelous providence in earth, even toward the brute beasts. 39:3 1 Read Ps. 147:9. 39:4 1 He chiefly maketh mention of wild goats and hinds, because they bring forth their young with most difficulty. 39:5 1 That is, how long they go with young? 39:6 1 They bring forth with great difficulty. 39:9 1 That is, the barren ground where no good fruits grow. 39:12 1 Is it possible to make the unicorn tame? signifying that if man cannot rule a creature, that it is much more impossible that he should appoint the wisdom of God, whereby he governeth all the world. 39:17 1 They write that the ostrich covereth her eggs in the sand, and because the country is hot and the sun still keepeth them warm, they are hatched.

Job 39:19 544

40 2 How weak man's power is, being compared to the work of God: 10 Whose power appeareth in the creation, and governing of the great beasts.

or that the wild beast might break them. 19 He showeth himself cruel unto his young ones, as they were not his, and is without fear, as if he travailed 1in vain. 20 For God had deprived him of 1wisdom, and hath given him no part of understanding. 21 When 1time is, he mounteth on high: he mocketh the horse and his rider. 22 Hast thou given the horse strength, or covered his neck with 1neighing? 23 Hast thou made him afraid as the grasshopper? his strong neighing is fearful. 24 He 1diggeth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: he goeth forth to meet the harnessed man. 25 He mocketh at fear, and is not afraid, and turneth not back from the sword, 26 Though the quiver rattle against him, the glittering spear and the shield. 27 He 1swalloweth the ground for fierceness and rage, and he believeth not that it is the noise of the trumpet. 28 He saith among the trumpets, Ha, ha: he smelleth the battle afar off, and the noise of the captains, and the shouting. 29 Shall the hawk fly by thy wisdom, stretching out his wings even toward the 1South? 30 Doth the eagle mount up at thy commandment, or make his nest on high? 31 She abideth and remaineth in the rock, even upon the top of the rock, and the tower, 32 From thence she spieth for meat, and her eyes behold afar off. 33 His young ones also suck up blood: and where the slain are, there is she. 34 Moreover the Lord spake unto Job, and said, 35 Is this 1to learn, to strive with the Almighty? he that reproveth God, let him answer to it. 36 ¶ Then Job answered the Lord, saying, 37 Behold, I am 1vile: what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. 38 Once have I spoken, but I will answer no more, yea twice, but I will proceed no further.

chapter 40

a Job 38:1

1 Again the Lord answered Job out of athe whirlwind, and said, 2 Gird up now thy loins like a man: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. 3 Wilt thou disannul 1my judgment? or wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be justified? 4 Or hast thou an arm like God? or dost thou thunder with a voice like him? 5 Deck thyself now with 1majesty and excellency, and array thyself with beauty and glory. 6 Cast abroad the indignation of thy wrath, and behold everyone that is proud, and abase him. 7 Look on everyone that is arrogant, and bring him low: and destroy the wicked in their place. 8 Hide them in the dust together, and bind 1their faces in a secret place. 9 Then will I confess unto thee also, that thy right hand can 1save thee. 10 ¶ Behold now 1Behemoth (whom I made 2with thee) which eateth 3grass as an ox. 11 Behold now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the navel of his belly. 12 When he taketh pleasure, his tail is like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together. 13 His bones are like staves of brass, and his small bones like staves of iron. 14 1He is the chief of the ways of God: 2he that made him, will make his sword to approach unto him. 15 Surely the mountains bring him forth grass, where all the beasts of the field play. 16 Lieth he under the trees in the covert of the reed and fens? 17 Can the trees cover him with their shadow? or can the willows of the river compass him about? 18 Behold, he spoileth the river, 1and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth. 19 He taketh it with his eyes, and thrusteth his nose through whatsoever meeteth him.

39:19 1 If he should take care of them. 39:20 1 That is, to have a care and natural affection toward his young. 39:21 1 When the young ostrich is grown up, he outrunneth the horse. 39:22 1 That is, given him courage? which is meant by neighing and shaking his mane: for with his breath he covereth his neck. 39:24 1 He beateth with his hoof. 39:27 1 He so rideth the ground that it seemeth nothing under him. 39:29 1 That is, when cold cometh, to fly into the warm countries. 39:35 1 Is this the way for a man that will learn, to strive with God? which thing he reproveth in Job. 39:37 1 Whereby he showeth that he repented, and desired pardon for his faults. 40:3 1 Signifying that they that justify themselves, condemn God as unjust.

40:5 1 Meaning, that these were proper unto God, and belonged to no man. 40:8 1 Cause them to die if thou canst. 40:9 1 Proving hereby that whosoever attributeth to himself power and ability to save himself, maketh himself God. 40:10 1 This beast is thought to be the elephant, or some other, which is unknown. 2 Whom I made as well as thee. 3 This commendeth the providence of God toward man: for if he were given to devour as a lion, nothing were able to resist him, or content him. 40:14 1 He is one of the chiefest works of God among the beasts. 2 Though man dare not come near him, yet God can kill him. 40:18 1 He drinketh at leisure, and feareth nobody.

545 Job 42:3

20 ¶ Canst thou draw out 1Leviathan with an hook, and with a line which thou shalt cast down unto his tongue? 21 Canst thou cast an hook into his nose? canst thou 1pierce his jaws with an angle? 22 Will he make many prayers unto thee? and speak thee fair? 23 Will he make a covenant with thee? and wilt thou take 1him as a servant forever? 24 Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maids? 25 Shall the companions banquet with him? shall they divide him among the merchants? 26 Canst thou fill the basket with his skin? or the fishpanier with his head? 27 Lay thine hand upon him: remember 1the battle, and do no more so. 28 Behold, 1his hope is in vain: for shall not one perish even at the sight of him? 41 1 By the greatness of this monster Leviathan, God showeth his greatness and his power, which nothing can resist.

leap out. 11 Out of his nostrils cometh out smoke, as out of a boiling pot or caldron. 12 His breath maketh the coals burn: for a flame goeth out of his mouth. 13 In his neck remaineth strength, and 1labor is rejected before his face. 14 The members of his body are joined: they are strong in themselves, and cannot be moved. 15 His heart is as strong as a stone, and as hard as the nether millstone. 16 The mighty are afraid of his majesty, and for fear they faint in themselves. 17 When the sword doth touch him, he will not rise up, nor for the spear, dart nor habergeon. 18 He esteemeth iron as straw, and brass as rotten wood. 19 The archer cannot make him flee: the stones of the sling are turneth into stubble unto him. 20 The darts are counted as straw: and he laugheth at the shaking of the spear. 21 Sharp stones 1are under him, and he spreadeth sharp things upon the mire. 22 He maketh the depth to 1boil like a pot, and maketh the Sea like a pot of ointment. 23 He maketh a path to 1shine after him, one would think the depth as an hoar head. 24 In the earth there is none like him: he is made without fear. 25 He beholdeth 1all high things: he is a King over all the children of pride. 42 6 The repentance of Job. 9 He prayeth for his friends. 12 His goods are restored double unto him. 13 His children, age and death.

1 None is so fierce that dare stir him up. Who is he then that can 1stand before me? 2 Who hath prevented me that I should 1make an end? All under heaven is mine. 3 I will not keep silence concerning 1his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion. 4 Who can discover the face 1of his garment? or who shall come to him with a double 2bridle? 5 Who shall 1open the doors of his face? his teeth are fearful round about. 6 The majesty of his scales is like strong shields, and are sure sealed. 7 One is set to another, that no wind can come between them. 8 One is joined to another: they stick together, that they cannot be sundered. 9 His sneezings 1make the light to shine, and his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning. 10 Out of his mouth go lamps, and sparks of fire

1 Then Job answered the Lord, and said, 2 I know that thou canst do all things, and that there is no 1thought hid from thee. 3 Who is he that hideth counsel without 1knowledge? therefore have I spoken that I understood not, even things too wonderful for me, 2and which I knew not.

40:20 1 Meaning, the whale. 40:21 1 Because he feareth lest thou shouldest take him. 40:23 1 To do thy business, and be at thy commandment? 40:27 1 If thou once consider the danger, thou wilt not meddle with him. 40:28 1 To wit, that trusteth to take him. 41:1 1 If none dare stand against a whale, which is but a creature, who is able to compare with God the Creator? 41:2 1 Who hath taught me to accomplish my work? 41:3 1 The parts and members of the whale? 41:4 1 That is, who dare pull off his skin? 2 Who dare put a bridle in his mouth? 41:5 1 Who dare look in his mouth? 41:9 1 That is, casteth out flames of fire.

41:13 1 Nothing is painful or hard unto him. 41:21 1 His skin is so hard that he lieth with a great ease on the stones as in the mire. 41:22 1 Either he maketh the sea to seem as it boiled by his wallow­ ing, or else he spouteth water in such abundance as it would seem that the sea boiled. 41:23 1 That is, a white froth and shining stream before him. 41:25 1 He despiseth all other beasts and monsters, and is the proudest of all others. 42:2 1 No thought so secret, but thou dost see it, nor anything that thou thinkest, but thou canst bring it to pass. 42:3 1 Is there any but I? for this God laid to his charge, Job 38:2. 2 I confess herein mine ignorance, and that I spake I wist not what.

Job 42:4 546

4 Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, 1and declare thou unto me. 5 I have 1heard of thee by the hearing of the ear, but now mine eye seeth thee. 6 Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. 7 Now after that the Lord had spoken these words unto Job, the Lord also said unto Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is 1right, like my servant 2Job. 8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks, and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering, and my servant Job shall 1pray for you: for I will accept him, lest I should put you to shame, because ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job. 9 So Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite, went, and did according as the Lord had said unto them, and the Lord accepted Job. 10 ¶ Then the Lord turned the 1captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave

Job twice so much as he had before. 11 Then came unto him all his 1brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house, and had compassion on him, and comforted him for all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him, and every man gave him a 2piece of money, and everyone an earring of gold. 12 So the Lord blessed the last days of Job more than the first: for he had 1fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses. 13 He had also seven sons, and three daughters. 14 And he called the name of one 1Jemimah, and the name of the second 2Keziah, and the name of the third 3Keren-Happuch. 15 In all the land were no women found so fair as the daughters of Job, and their father gave them inheritance among their brethren. 16 And after this lived Job an hundred and forty years, and saw his sons, and his son's sons, even four generations. 17 So Job died, being old, and full of days.

42:4 1 He showeth that he will be God's scholar to learn of him. 42:5 1 I knew thee only before by hearsay: but now thou hast caused me to feel what thou art to me, that I may resign myself over unto thee. 42:7 1 You took in hand an evil cause, in that you condemned him by his outward afflictions, and not comforted him with my mercies. 2 Who had a good cause, but handled it evil. 42:8 1 When you have reconciled yourselves to him for the faults that you have committed against him, he shall pray for you, and I

will hear him. 42:10 1 He delivered him out of the affliction wherein he was. 42:11 1 That is, all his kindred, read Job 19:13. 2 Or, lamb, or money so marked. 42:12 1 God made him twice so rich in cattle as he was afore, and gave him as many children as he had taken from him. 42:14 1 That is, of long life, or beautiful as the day. 2 As pleasant as cassia or sweet spice. 3 That is, the horn of beauty.

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