Of the Head Cornerstone, Chapter 7 (2 of 3)

Of the Head Cornerstone · Chapter 7 (2 of 3)

p. 1457 Concerning the breaking of that ensued, wee are first to see what it was: then, Ahow it was pacified, and made vp againe. Going about to finde out what it was, we are first to note, what was the occasion of it: then to consider of the thing it selfe. The occasion of it, was that long absence of Moses: though about Gods businesse, BExod. 32, 1. 19 19. 24: 12, 24.Exod 32:1Exod 32:19and their owne; and though hee had sufficient Deputies among them in that his absence. The thing it selfe we finde partly in them; partly in the Lorde: in them, that they committed a foule sinne; in the Lord, that hee was highly offended with them for it. Their sinne proceeded most from themselues: but yet partly, from Aaron also. From themselues it proceeded, that they would needes hauehave such a visible representation made: yea, though it were to a speciall charge vntounto themselues; and accordingly Exo. 32: 1, 3, 6Exod 32:1Exod 32:3Exod 32:6worshipped, when they had obtained. From Aaron likewise, that though Ibid. 2, 4, 5.he required such Iewels of them (and as it may seeme, the rather to stay them) yet, on their so doing he yeelded, made an Altar for it, and appointed the next day to be holy vntounto it. The Lord heereuppon was so offended with them, that first telling Moses Ibid. 7-10.how ill they they had done; he then telleth him also, that he saw very well, that they were but a naughty people: and therefore not amisse, vtterly to destroy them; and to rayse vp a mighty people of him. The pacification or making vp of this breach againe, was presently attempted: but could not bee as yet obtained. So are wee to consider; first, howe it was in the meane season attempted: then, howe it was in p. 146the end obtained. Attempted it was first at this present: then afterwarde also. At this present, before he departed, he earnestly besought the Lord for them: and pleaded on his owne glory, and former promise. Before he did assay it with the Ibid. 11-13.Lord againe, he first himselfe made some good way to obtain: then after, he assayed it againe. He made some good way first to obtaine, both that he was himself so grieued with it: and that he did so punnish it also. Himselfe was so grieued with it, when he saw indeed what was done, that he cast away the Tables & brake them: Ibid. 15-19.either not witting for griefe what he did; or condemning them as vnworthy of so holy a Law, who now had so fowly broken the same. In punnishing of it, he first Ibid. 20, 29.destroyeth the Idoll it selfe with great detestation, making them to drinke of it also: and then roundly reproouing Aaron for his facility therein, nothing sparing him for that he was his elder Brother, on the others that most offended hee did a good execution besides, to the number of about three thousand persons. This way being made, and the people (as it may seeme) beeing now brought to some profession of repentance for it, he goeth vp to the Lorde againe, to see what might Ibid. 30-35. and 33: 1-3.be done: but could not obtaine. At this time it seemeth he alledged that profession of the peoples repentance, because the Lord doth now (as it were) take exception against it. For hee willeth them to lay aside their costly rayment: as if hee Exod. 33: 5.Exod 33:5should more plainly say vntounto them, that their vsing of it still did plainely shew that there was no repentaunce in them. A needfull lesson for vsus also, for that such trimming vp of our selues doth plainely shew, that then wee hauehave good liking of our selues: whereas true repentance doth euer carry with it a speciall great dislike of our selues; as nothing worthy to bee so cherished. Whereupon Moses comming CIbi. 7-11, 4, 6.downe to the people againe, now remoueth his Tent from among them (as we also should put a speciall difference in all such cases:) and the Lord appeareth familiarly vntounto him. Which sight, as it seemeth, so wrought with the people, that now they repented better, and laide aside their costly apparrell. Obtained it was not all at once, but by degrees: first, that they should not be destroyed; then, that himselfe would also go with them. That they should not be destroyed, was obtained Exod. 32: 14Exod 32:14by Moses at his first intercession for them, before he came down from the mount. The next day also, at his second request, he obtained, that they might go on forward Ibid. 30-35. and 33: 1-3.as they had begunne; and that he would send his angell, with them: but yet would he remember them, as occasion should serue, for that their transgression. But now the third time, when the people did better repent, and Moses renewed his suite againe, it pleased the Lord to promise to do it; and to giuegive him some token of it, such as himselfe did then desire: but for a time, it was no more but promised to Moses; but afterwarde performed vntounto the people. While it was but promised to Moses, first we hauehave that which concerneth this matter it selfe: then, that farther confirmation that was giuen him besides. That which concerneth the matter it selfe, is, that Moses againe intreated for it; and that the Lord was entreated Ibid. 33: 12, 17by him: willing him then to prouide two other such Tables as hee had before, promising againe to write the Commandements in them; and him-selfe next Exo. 34: 1-3.Exod 34:1–3morning alone to be with him, meaning him then that farther confirmation that he desired. Which farther confirmation was a farther manifestation of himself vntounto Ibid. 18: 23. and 34: 4-8:him, which accordingly he did vouchsafe him. When it was to bee imparted vntounto the people, Moses first againe remembereth the Lord about it: and the Lorde againe telleth him, that he will not faile to do it; but yet looking that the people Ibid. 9. 10.should in like sort yeelde in some other duties to him likewise. The duties that God did now require of them, were but some of those againe which he did inioyn them before, and whereupon he made with them the former couenant: nowe not charging them with any new; and contenting himselfe at this time, but vvith few of those. And if we marke, they all are such, as wherein it is euident, that it vvas not so much any seruice to him, as their owne good estate that he respected therein. For first he requireth, that vvhen they come into the land which he was now about to giuegive them, they should for their ovvne, sakes ridde it of that corruption, which they should finde in it vvhen they came thither: then he directeth them, in p. 147what sort themselues should liue therein, so to enioy the benefit of that his fauour now recouered to them againe. As touching the former, he giueth them to vnderstand, Ibid. 11-16.that himselfe doth meane to make a cleane riddance of the ancient inhabitants of the Land: and therefore willeth them, that they on their parts also take heed, that Dthey make no couenant with them; but vttetly to destroy those Idolles of theirs, and the whole manner of that their worshipping. The reason to be, for that other-wise, themselues also might sometimes be inuited and feast with them in their Idoll-feastings; and that taking their Daughters in marriage, they might so corrupt their children: whereas they ought to worship none but him; and hee being a iealous God, they could not so do, but to their owne ouer-throw. As touching the latter, two things there are that he doth forbid: all the rest he doth require. Hee forbiddeth Ibid. 17, 26.them to hauehave any Gods of mettall: and to be, either so vnthankefull towardes him, or so intemperate in themselues, as when they are to giuegive their first-linges vntounto him, they obtrude them vntounto him when they are too young; or when they would fare more daintily, they wantonly eate of such things, before they be meete to be eaten. Those that he requireth, do all tend to this end, that they be dutifull worshippers of him: and that, first in such festiuall times as hee had appointed vntounto them; then, in yeelding vntounto him some part of that, where-withall it pleased God to blesse them. The Festiual times that before he had appointed vntounto them, and which now hee did require, were first the Sabbaoth: then, those three principall Feasts of the yeare besides. His Sabbaoths he would hane them so duely to keepe, that he woulde not hauehave them to meddle with them, neither in their seede time, nor haruest. Those Ibid. 21.other three Feasts he doth likewise require to bee duely obserued, promising also to preserue their Coasts in the meane season; and farther, giueth more special direction Ibid. 18, 22-25for the first of them: Namely, that they vse no leauen then; nor leaue ought thereof till the morning. As touching that where-withall it pleased him to blesse them, he doth now againe require, that they yeeld some part thereof vntounto him: both the firstlings that before he required; and some-what besides when they came to worship. For their first-lings he would hauehave the first, not onelyonly of their Cattle, and fruites of Ibid. 19. 20, 25the earth (and the vncleane, to be redeemed with a cleane:) but euen of their Children too. That which besides he required when they came to worshippe, was, that Ibid. 20.euerie one should giuegive some-what: yet not prescribing any thing vntounto them; but leauing it wholly to their owne discretion. On these conditions (which also himselfe Ibid. 27.willed Moses to set downe in writing) how fully the Lord did yeelde to be their good and gracious Lord againe, himselfe declared, both by renewing those Tables Ibid. 28.againe: and by cloathing Moses with so speciall glory now. In those new Tables that were now prouided, againe hee wrote the Ten Commaundements: and gaue them to Moses to the vse of the people. Moses also he cloathed now with so speciall Eglorie, that they were not able to behold the brightnesse of his countenaunce, (though vnwitting to him) but fled away from him: till hee, espying what was the Ibid. 29, 35.cause, cast a vayle on while hee talked with them. And truely, the glorie of his true Seruaunts, is alwayes great, though hee make it not so to appeare vntounto others.

8. This breach being thus made-vp againe, and the worke that was in hand Abefore, being now to proceede, Moses, according as now he had receiued directions already, first, setteth in hand to get all those things ready that God required: and then, doth reare, or set vp the same, as he also appointed. To get those things ready, first he prouideth against a daunger that the people (by putting their handes vntounto) might easily incurre by immoderate zeale, if they were not before admonished of it: and then requireth that they also would be helping therein, so farre as to them should be appertaining. He prouideth against that daunger, when as now beeing to require of them, both themselues to bring in such things as were needfull, and to helpe to worke them besides (so many of them as should be found able so to do) he first requireth, that neuerthelesse the Sabbaoth be duly obserued of them all: which Exod. 35: 1-3.Exod 35:1–3otherwise themselues might hauehave thought had not beene so precisely to be kept, but p. 148that in such worke as this, euen by the nature of the worke it selfe (being to erect a Sanctuary vntounto him) or at least, for the more speedy dispatch of it, they might on their Sab…oths hauehave done something therein, In which place, because hee forhiddeth them so much as to kindle a fire thereon, and yet elsewhere alloweth needefull sustenance to be prepared, it seemeth the fires that heere he speaketh of, were such as they should vse about their workes, as in melting their mettals: though others there be, that more strictly take it; and that which is deliuered of Manna, may seeme Tr…. & I…. Exod. 1…: 23.Exod 1:23to encline thereunto also. He requireth that they would be helping therein so farre as to them doth appertaine, in that both hee requireth that free-will offering: and … 3…: 4-19. 36: 2. …. 20 29. 3…: 4 7.vrgeth all those that hauehave skill to be working thereon. The people accordingly so readily brought in their Free will offering, that they soone brought in much more than needed (a good example for vsus, so farre as is needfull, in such case to follow) and were faine to be stayed, from bringing any more, by proclamation. The workemen likewise so applyed theit businesse, that they made all things as to them was Ibi. 35: 30-35 36: 1▪3…: …. that …, all these foure chapters. 36, 37, 38, and 39.prescribed; euen by the confession of Moses himselfe: insomuch, that he blessed them for the same. As touching the rearing or setting of it vp, we are first to consider Bof the thing it selfe: then of some other things thereupon ensuing. As touching the thing it selfe, first let vsus see how it was performed: then, because it was a worke of speciall moment. therefore it shall not be amisse, that we againe consider some-what farther of it. For the performance of it, vntounto the direction that GOD had giuen to Moses before, in what sort to set vp and place all thinges thereunto appertaining, he addeth now speciall pointes moe: one, for the time; another for one point of the manner of it. For the time, he appointeth that it be done the first day of the first monethmonth of the second yeare since they came out of Aegypt: which Exo. 40: 1-8.Exod 40:1–8was as the first day of March with vsus; and so some-what within the yeare, after that great deliuerance of theirs. That one point that respecteth the manner of dooing it, was, that hauing reared it and set all things in order, then was he to annoint both Ibid. 9-11.the Tabernacle it selfe, and the things there unto appertaining, with the brazen Altar and Lauer without, & the Instruments thereunto appertaining, with that sweet & holy Oyle, which God had caused him to that end to prouide: a very good assurance to vsus, that not only the Church in general, & the chiefe & principal members therof; but eueryevery member in particular also, euen the meanest of al, are by faith in christ made acceptable and sanctified to God the father. And whereas not only the place it self, & the things therunto appertaining were by Gods ordinance thus anointed; but Aaron Ibid. 12-16.also & his sons, when they were washed and revested to enter into their holy function (the Priest-hood being but only a figure of the Priest-hood of Christ, and the Vertue and power of it being onelyonly in Christ) hence also may we gather, that in the Priest-hoode of Christ alone, all that beleeue hauehave so full attonement with God, that they neuer neede to seeke to any other helpe whatsoeuer. Now, if our selues thinke good to consider any farther of this speciall and beautifull worke of God, being without it, we see nothing else but onelyonly a small quantity of ground taken in: and the vpper part of a building (flat in the roofe, and in colour gray) reared In length▪ 100 cubits: in breadth, 50. Exo. …7: 9-19. 38: 9 …0. On each side, 20, each end 10.Exod 7:9–19Exod 7:38Exod 7:9vp towards the farther end of it. The ground we see to be taken in, neither with Ditch, Hedge, nor Wall: but onelyonly with hanginges of fayre Linnen, purposely wrought about; two yards and a halfe high or neere thereunto. Which Linnen hangings we finde to be hung on fayre Pillers of wood, of conuenient distance betwixt; hauing their bases or feete of Brasse, and by those pitched into the earth: but their Chookes where on those hangings were hung, to be of Slluer; and the heads, of those Pillers also to be beautifully garnished with siluer besides. And that these might stand more steddy, we finde those pillers to be stayed vp on eueryevery side likewise, with corde (after the manner of pitching Tents) and all the pinnes, together with the Mals to driue them in, and to knocke them out, to be of Brasse also. This enclosure or new-in-take we finde to bee coasted, the sides towardes the North and the South; and the ends towards the West, and East: neyther do we finde any entrance thereunto, but onelyonly at one end of it, and that on the East. But some are of opinion, that those hangings were in the workeman-ship of them throughout so voyded, p. 149that those that were without, might euerie where looke in at their owne discretion and pleasure. At the East end where the entrance was, wee finde the front thereof towards the Corners of it to bee closed-vp but as the rest of the Court besides: but for ten yards of the midst of it, and for the space that the foure middlemost Ibi. …7: 16. and 38: 39pillers had betwixt them, that do we finde to bee closed vp with a richer and fairer hanging of twined Linnen, and Blew Silke, Purple, and Scarlet, and the same throughout to be wrought with the Needle: but in heighth to be but eeuen with the others. Which, as it seemeth, yeelded vntounto men two places of entrie: One, on the right hand, betwixt those two hanginges, the richer and the meaner on the North; the other, on the left hand towards the South, at the other end of this rich hanging. When we are come in, then do we see the Sanctuary it selfe, erected towards the farther end of the Court; but some things to be placed betwixt vsus and it: and those to be two. One, the brazen Altar, some reasonable distance on this side Exod. 27▪ 1-8. 38: 1. 40: 6, 29 Ibi 30: 17▪21. 38: 8. 40: 7, 30▪Exod 27:1–8Exod 27:38Exod 27:1Exod 27:40Exod 27:6Exod 27:29of it: the other, the brazen Lauer a little beyond it, betwixt the Sanctuary it selfe and the Altar. Then drawing neere to the Sanctuary it selfe, if we take the course to walke about it, to see the out-side of it, there wee finde roome, betwixt the outside of the Court and it, somewhat better than eight yards broad on both the sides of it, and so belike at the West end also: saue ostely so farre as the Cords and pinnes that holde vp the pillers, do encumber to such vse some part of the roome. So going about it, now we do plainly discerne the vpper couering to he of Badgers skins, to beare off the weather: and the frame it selfe to stand vpright, all of Golde to see too, from beneath the couering towardes the earth, sauing onelyonly that neere to the earth we finde it to be vnderunder-laid with siluer; and the workmanship of both, though but plaine, yet very orderly and faire. If we looke neerer vntounto it, or marke it better, Dthen we finde, that neither that Golden frame it selfe, nor that vnderunder-laying that was of Siluer, is of one intire or whole framing, but that either of them consisteth of diuers parcels. For first, that rew of Siluer beneath, we finde to consist of one & forty parcels on either side; and of foureteene at the West end of it; all of one workemanship, and of like distance one from another, substantiall and fayre; and, as it seemeth a good part of them Pike-wise descending into the earth, aswell as we finde a good part of them in sight aboue, and the same of conuenient breadth, strength, and framing to sustaine the frame thereon imposed. On these Bases we finde to bee set, and by certaine Tennons to be let in, as it were, an whole maine wall of Golde, both on the sides and West end of it, and the same about fiue yardes high. But giuing better eye vntounto it, we espy all to be of seuerall parcels; but yet to be all in proportion and order: twenty of those parcels at each side, and sixe at the end, all of one measure, forme, and beauty, eueryevery one about tenne cubits high, and about one and an halfe in breadth; eueryevery one likewise by two seuerall Tenons to bee firmely let into those siluer Bases beneath. At the end we find (as we do take it) that both the end and sides are ioyned or coupled together in one, iust at the two Corners of it, by other two parcels of the like measure, and beauty: but of diuers form from the others. For either of these we take to be all of one peece, & in effect as broad as the others: but to be framed to a right angle: one halfe of their breadth so extended, as may most conueniently meet fit with the sides; and the other in like sort, as may on both sides ioyne fit with the end. Those parcels also wee note to hauehave two Tennons a peece, in either of their moities one: each of them letting in those Tenons of theirs, into those Sockets or Bases that are next to the corner, on either side of the Corner one; and so letting in one a peece into the sides (which dooth make the odde that we spake of) and another in the end where they are, which also maketh out the number aforesaide. We found likewise, as we do remember (for others of vsus there bee Supra, Sect. 6.that are of other opinion heerein, some in one point, some in another, whome wee would be loath to preiudice) that these seuerall parcels had euerie one of them (that were of one forme) foure Rings of Gold, set strongly in them; and those two corner Ex. 26: 26-29Exod 26:26–29parcels of other forme, in each of their wings or leaues, as many: from the midst vpward a couple, one about three quarters of a yarde aboue the middest, and the other of like distance vpward from it againe; and from the midst downward anoother p. 150couple, in like distance also. By which saide foure rewes of Golden Ringes, there passed foure barres of such wood, as to such purpose was meetest; but euerie of them cleane ouer-layde with beaten Golde: being all to fasten the frame together. EWee heard likewise, that whereas there was a double distance left in the midst, to any other part of it besides, that not onelyonly it was supplied by any other such barre passing through the heart of them all within; but also, that as by the bases they were fastned beneath; so by certaine couplings, which coupled one of them to another, they were likewise fastned at their toppes aboue. So hauing thus farre found the outwarde face or shew of the Tabernacle, for both the sides and farthest end of it, and now drawing towards the entrance of it, there wee first finde, in the Court before it, these two principall things that before wee briefly mentioned: the Altar of Burnt-offerings; and the standing Lauar. The Altar we finde to bee as it were, brest-hie, and of conuenient or competent length and breadth to the vse for Exod. 27: 1-8Exod 27:1–8the which it was ordained, and to see to, foure square, hollow within but supplyed with a grate, both apt to holde vp the Fewell and fire, & such other things as should be laide thereon, and yet not to stay the ashes, bloode, and the like, but that such thin…, might hauehave thence ready passage: which also we finde to be made for carriag…ing faire and strong Rings by the sides, and barres put through meete for that p…ose. All which may seeme to be altogether of Brasse, together with the ho…es …at at the Corners thereof are erected: but that we vnderstand the frame of it to be but of wood, for the more tollerable carriage of it; and yet with brasse faire ouer-laice, and so the barres also whereby to be borne. The Lauer we finde (as it Ibi. 30: 17-21.were behinde the Altar from the sight of the people; namely, betwixt it and the Sanctuary: all of brasse, and very faire; both the Lauer it selfe, and the base whereon it standeth. A peece of workemanship, for the fairenesse and comlinesse of it, be…full enough in it selfe: but yet more admirable, when once we heare whereof it was made. For it is saide, that whereas God, when the people a little before had sinned, required of them, before he would be reconciled to them againe, that they should lay aside their costlier apparrell, as ouer great testimony against themselues, that so long as they braued in it, neither was there, neither could be any true repentance in them: …ow, euen the women that most of all are giuen to the vanity of apparrell▪ Lyr. Trem. Iunand to that end were woont to trim vp themselues by their glasses (which it seemeth they had of Brasse, as we hauehave the like of Steele; and that they had as good and re…y a way to worke them of the one, as we hauehave to make them of the other) Fso… that their woonted vanity, that they freely gaue them vntounto the woorke that … hand, and that so of them onelyonly this Lauer was made. For as touching …terpreted by some, that this Lauar was made of Steele, true it is that the He… …d signifieth both: but then, because brasse is a great deale more meete to Trem. I…. Exod. 27 …1 3…, 3, …0.Exod 27:1…ose▪ and more suteable to the rest of those things that to that place apper…en by their own interpretation also) for which the other would be nothing …et (at least for diuers of them) therfore I rather maruel that they would so interpret, than conceiue any reason why we should rather follow them than others therin. Gather. … the l…th of them. Exod. 2…: 2. 8. Exod. 26: 36, 37. & 36: 37, 38. 40: 28.Exod 2:2Exod 2:8Exod 26:36Exod 26:37Exod 36:37Exod 36:38Exod 36:40Exod 36:28The end of the Tabernacle it selfe, from the vpper-part downe-ward, till it come within two yardes of the earth, or there-about, wee finde to be shut vp with those faire Coueringes that were cast aloft aboue the frame, and so did couer the vpperpart of it round about; but the neather part of it, with a faire rich hanging wrought with the Needle of twined Linnen and Silke, Blew, Purple, and Scarlet; hung on fiue faire Pillers of Timber, but their Chapters and Hookes of Golde, and theyr Bases or Sockets of Brasse. By which hanging, at both the endes of it there was conuenient entrance into the Tabernacle it selfe. Entering into it, wee finde it, (for the length) to bee parted in two: and the higher roome to bee much greater, than the farther may seeme to be. In this hither roome, considering first of the place it selfe, we finde it to be about a fiue yardes high, as much in breadth or somwhat better, and the length to be as it were double, cleane couered aboue, with that faire rich couering of twined Linnen and Silke, Blewe, Purple, and Scarlet, Exod 26: 1-6. 36. 8. 13. 4…: …9.Exod 26:1–6Exod 26:36Exod 26:8Exod 26:13Exod 26:4Exod 26:9consisting of diuers parcels, but reaching throughout from side to side, all of one p. 151size, and all fairely embroydered with Cherubims: and by the sides to be closed, Ex. …6: 15-25. 26▪ 20-30 …▪ 18Exod 6:15–25Exod 6:26Exod 6:20–30Exod 6:18with eeuen and faire Wals, as it were of beaten Gold, the neather parts as it were a small Boarder beneath, onelyonly of Siluer; neyther of them being one entire thing, but consisting of seuerall parcels, yet all one measure, vniforme, and faire. Then casting our eye to the chiefe thinges that were therein (wee finde them to be three:) none of them all of any great quantity, but proportionable vntounto the roome for the which they were ordained. Of these three, two of them were opposite one to the other: the third somwhat beyond them both, towards the midst from side to side, & of much like distance from eyther of them. Those that were opposite one to the other, were, on the right hand towardes the North, the Table of the Shew-Bread, Exo. 25: 23-30 26: 35. 37: 10-16. 40: 4, 22, 23.Exod 25:23–30with Barres vntounto it, ready for carriage, all of cleane Gold to see too, with a dozen of Bread thereon, rather resembling Cakes than Loaues (as they are made Gwith vsus) sixe towardes the one ende, and sixe towardes the other, in faire couered Dishes or Boales of Golde, to that ende ordained: on the left hand towardes the South, the standing Candlesticke of beaten Gold, with three branches on eyther Ex. 25: 31-39. 20: 35. 37: 17-24. 40: 4, 24, 25.Exod 25:31–39Exod 25:20Exod 25:35Exod 25:37Exod 25:17–24Exod 25:40Exod 25:4Exod 25:24Exod 25:25side spreading themselues foorth by the sides of the roome in conuenient manner, and one in the midst, fairely wrought, and meete to such purpose, and eueryevery of the seauen hauing a Lampe at the top continually burning. That which was somewhat beyond them both, and of much like distance from eyther of them, was an Altar of Incense or sweete Perfume, with barres vntounto it ready for bearing, to see to Exod. 30: 1-9. 37, 25-28. 40: 5, 26, 27.Exod 30:1–9Exod 30:37Exod 30:25–28Exod 30:40Exod 30:5Exod 30:26Exod 30:27likewise all of Gold, and fairely wrought, together with an Incense Cup thereon of Gold likewise: on which Altar, morning and euening when the Lampes were drest, a most precious and sweete Perfume was daily burnt vntounto the Lord. All Exo. 25: 29, 39 37: 16, 24.Exod 25:29Exod 25:39which three principall thinges of the roome that yet wee are in, had diuers other Vessels and necessary implementes to them appertaining, of Golde likewise, and fairely wrought. Betwixt this, and the in-most place, wee finde a rich hanging, Exo 26: 31-33 36: 35, 36. 40: 3, 21.Exod 26:31–33from side to side, of the like woorke to that other aboue, where-with the whole frame was first couered: hauing on foure Pillers, all of Golde to see too, hauing their Sockets all of Siluer. The in-most place we finde to bee, but about the one Ioseph. antiq. lib. 3. chap. 5. Exo. 26: 15-30Exod 26:15–30halfe of the other, for the roomth or quantity of it; but otherwise of the same heigth, and couered aboue as the other: and in this, not onelyonly the sides as in the other, but in the end also to be as it were all of Gold, sauing that neather boarder of it, and that to be onelyonly of Siluer, of seuerall parcels, and yet all vniforme, and faire as the other before. In this roomth wee finde but one thing onelyonly; but that the cheefe of all the rest, as it seemeth, by the place that is vouchsafed: namely, a Exo. 25: 10-21 37: 1-9. 40: 3, 20, 21.Exod 25:10–21Coffer and a Chest, without feete, plain and square, about an Ell in length, and of breadth correspondent, with barres vntounto it, for the carriage of it, with two Cherubims, or vpper bodyes of men, and Winges of Angels, arising vp on the heades thereof, setting their faces, and extending their Winges each towards others, vntounto the midst of the lid whereon they were framed; but to see to, all of Gold, very faire and perfectly wrought; which so rich a Chest or Coffer, in the Scriptures Exod. 25: 21. 40: 20.Exod 25:21Exod 25:40Exod 25:20called an Arke, we vnderstand to bee made onelyonly for those two Tables of Stone, wherein the Ten-Commaundements were written: an euident testimony vntounto all, of what price hee would hauehave those Commaundementes to bee, to all his people. From out of which Chest, as it were from those Ten-Commaundements, and so as it were ftom betweene the Winges of the Cherubims, we vnderstand, that the Exod. 25: 2….Exod 25:2Lord beeing sought vntounto, would oft-times graciously heare them, and giuegive them Hanswere; and thereuppon was the vpper part of this Chest, which was the lid or Exod. 25: 17. 18. 37: 6.Exod 25:17Exod 25:18Exod 25:37Exod 25:6couering of it, called the Mercy-Seate, and the vulgar Translation, the Oracle also.

9 Truely a notable sight in it selfe: and to the outward or bodily eye, such as AI thinke could hardly be had (of this kind) in all the World, in that age that nowe we are in. But if wee consider, that as all thinges were in figures and shaddowes then, and did betoken better thinges that were to come in ages ensuing; so these thinges also might be of that Nature, and praefigure to vsus much better things than p. 152we finde in themselues: so might wee finde the beauty of them, farre to exceede, not onelyonly the beauty of all that then were, but also of all that euer were since in all the World. Not, that now I seeme to approoue, that which diuers of our Leaders before hauehave thereof conceiued and commended vntounto vsus; that the Court should signify the neather part of the World; the out-most place of the Tabernacle, Ly…. …s.or the Tabernacle of the Congregation, the Heauens withall the Ornaments thereof, as the Sunne, the Moone, and the Starres; and the most holy or in-most part of it, the highest Heauens where God and his Saintes are in glory, and such like. Matters a great deale too farre fetched, and far too base (for diuers of them) to hauehave at all any place heere: especially, when as there are others of greater dignity a great deale, to whom these are to be reserued: namely, Christ himselfe, and all the company of faithfull, or his true members heere on earth: shewing in what sort they are vnited or ioyned together; and what they are, both in the sight of others, and in themselues, and what notwithstanding by his goodnesse towardes them. For first, as touching the roomth or space that was taken vp, we see it was The small … of it.but very small: and of all the great and infinite numbers and multitudes of most populous Nations and peoples of the World, they are but few, and very few too, in comparison of the rest that consecrate themselues to any speciall regard of God indeede; and so may seeme to be taken in to bee any peece of this his Sanctuary. Againe, the people were, by estimation, about 200000. persons that belonged vntounto it. For those that were at mans state, able to beare Armes, or at the age of twenty yeares, or aboue, were better than 600000. their Women of that age wee Num. 2: 32, 33Num 2:32Num 2:33may by likelihood account as many or moe, for that it brake no square with them to hauehave moe Wiues than one; and the younger sort, both Men and Women, somthing capable of instruction in the way of godlinesse, so many moe as are like Benough to make vp that number. But heere was not roome for one thousand of them, at once to come in, and worship there, if at any time they were so disposed. The Priestes and Leuites that were soone after taken in to that seruice, were themselues so many, that the roome was in a manner little enough for so many of them as in their course should there doe their seruice. So it may seeme by this proportion, that God himselfe also made no other reckoning of that his people, but that, although they were his onelyonly people of all the world, and themselues were a great people too: yet few of them would at any time (to speake of) much regard to visite his Sanctuary, or to tread in that Court of his; not onelyonly, not in the way of any true deuotion indeede, but also but sildome, howsoeuer. The fence of this Sanctuarie, after the manner of the World, was of no strength at all; no more in The weaknes of the fence.effect, but a peece of Linnen hung round about it: but it had an inuincible strength from aboue. And the sence that his Church, or better sort of his people hauehave heere, by the great carelesnesse that is in all the great estates of the World generally, is maruellous weake; and, for any good helpe, that at any time lightly they hauehave thereby, that euer lye open in a manner to the spoyle of all: as euen now also in the daies of the Gospell, and in those that themselues doe most professe it, is plaine to be seene. But vndoubtedly they hauehave, a strong and sure auenger aboue. Approaching neerer with minde to goe in, wee finde the entry very faire: a good The entrance into it.allurement vntounto all; but yet little regarded by any. And yet notwithstanding, it is very certaine, that euen the very enterance it selfe vntounto the Lord, in any good manner, is very faire and beautifull to him: and, in the way of singular blessing. Neither are any men so farre past all regard of God, but that they also account it a thing of speciall beauty in any, and a speciall ornament vntounto them, to be deuoutly giuen: but the wiser, and better sort among them, doe vndoubtedly know it so to bee, and accordingly make that reckoning of it, that to be truely religious towardes GOD, is the only ornament of true honor and beauty that any can hauehave in all the world; & that without it, whatsoeuer other good or commendable things are in vsus, eyther they are of no reckoning at all, as wanting their Grace, or else are fouly blemished besides. When once we are in, and doe but begin to looke about vsus, in what order, Cand how decent are all thinges there: And truely God is not the Author of any confusion p. 153The decency of it.or disorder, whatsoeuer: but hath all his woorkes, in a maruellous faire and beautifull order, correspondent, and sutable one to another. Neyther are they any part of his mysticall Tabernacle, that eyther are Authours of such confusion, or so iumble thinges together: or are but themselues disorderly patches, nothing sutable vntounto the Garment whereto they are set. Comming vntounto the Altar of burnt offerings, The brazen Altar.there we finde, as it were, in faire and large Capitall Letters, and very plainely ingrauen thereon, that wee are all, euen the choyce people of God, and the best of those also exceeding sinfull; and that the same sinne of ours is in no wise to be done away but onelyonly by blood: and yet that it is not our owne blood that would serue; but that it must bee the bloud of some other. Necessarily thereunto appertaining, wee finde both a Sacrifice: and a Priest to offer the same. The Sacrifice must be The ….some such as hath not offended: it must be liuing, that it may dye; it must be cleane and without all blemish, or it will not serue. In the Priest, who is the chiefe Actor The Priest.heerein, euen at the first we finde very much: we finde him to bee such as God himselfe hath appointed, or called vntounto it; and such as hee hath accordingly furnished. Our poore harts, euer as we feele the burthen of sinne, and more seriously consider, how fearefull wrath is from the iustice of God due vntounto it, would gladly finde, by what good meanes wee might bee reconciled to him againe, to the forgiuenesse of those our sinnes, and to the escaping of those his iudgements: or, who it were, that we might hope, could well vndertake that busines for vsus. In which careful thoughts of ours, we can no sooner finde, that God himselfe hath appointed one to that purpose, but that a good part of those fearefull remembrances doe presently vanish away, and our hearts are much releeued thereby. Viewing him better, and more specially marking how he is furnished, euen at the very first we finde, that his ornaments The glory of his ornaments.are so many, and so rich, that he is exceeding glorious thereby: and therefore it cannot be, but that wee may hauehave very great contentment in him. More specially wee finde, and that but euen in the skirts of his cloathing, that his Pomegranets betoken some fulnesse or speciall abundance, whether of righteousnesse, or of the fauour of His Pomegranets and Bels.God towardes those, on whose behalfe he is so called vntounto that Priesthood: and that hee cannot addresse himselfe or bend his course to enter the Sanctuary, to make inter cession for his people, but that though himselfe hold his peace, yet euen his Bels yeeld a golden sound in the eares of the Lord. Raising vp our eyes somewhat higher. Among Dhis other ornaments, we finde on his breast a rich and precious Iewel, shewing His Tablet.the names of all his people to bee as it were ingrauen in his heart, and there likewise to be most pretiously set: and the felfe-same Tablet or Iewell to hang from his shoulders, from two faire imbossements of Gold, eyther of them set with a faire and large precious Stone, in which the Names of the 12. Tribes were written again, six in the one, and sixe in the other, the better to teach vsus, and to make it plainer vntounto vsus, that he also on his shoulders dooth beare his peoples burthen before the Lorde. And though it be as faire and perfectly wrought, as the skill of man could reach vntounto vsus (as the Lord himselfe, if we conceiue his meaning aright, did plainly require, when Vrim & Tummim.he did so specially charge Moses to put both Vrim and Tummim into it, requiring thereby, as we do take it, that it should not onelyonly be most faire to the eye, but also as perfectly wrought indeede, as might be deuised:) yet because God did so specially will him to put such Beauty and Perfection into it, we apprehend much more thereby, than any fulnesse or skil of man can yeeld vntounto vsus. Besides this, we find another speciall Ornament on his head, that Crowne or plate of Gold, wherein was engrauen Holynes vntounto the Lord: being giuen thercby (as we do take it) to vnderstand, The Golden Crowne.not so much that such as follow in that kinde of function should be holy before him (for it was set on the fore-part of his head, not within the reach of his owne eyes, so to direct that lesson vntounto himselfe; but onelyonly in the sight of others, so to let them see, what was on their behalfes to him imputed) as that, whereas on their parts it was absolutely needfull, that true holinesse should be exhibited vntounto the Lord for them, there might they all see, euen in that most honourable personage, and in the most conspicuous part of him too, a very comfortable demonstration of it. In the Lauer beyond the Altar, whereat these were euer to wash, before they did their seruice to p. 154The Lau…r.God, wee finde likewise deliuered vntounto vsus, and that very plainely as wee doe take it, both that we are to clense our selues so much as we may, before wee approach to the presence of God: and this especially besides, that wheras notwithstanding all those … and attributes before rehearsed, himselfe also notwithstanding must w…h, euen that onelyonly in it selfe is sufficient to giuegive vsus warning, that wee rest not in him; but that by him we suffer our selues to be directed vntounto some other. In him therefore, and in his glory, in all his ornaments, and in eueryevery of them, doe we, to our great and singular comfort, behold him that was then to come, Iesus Christ the Son Eof God, the onelyonly Lorde: whom onelyonly it hath pleased GOD to appoint to bee our Friest; whom also hee hath furnished withall sufficiency; yea, and absolute fulnesse thereunto appertaining. And so comming to the Sanctuary it selfe; first, we note, …▪ of the T…cle.euen the out-side of it, to be to our great and singular comfort. For eueryevery of those parcels (whereof the whole frame chiefly consisteth) though they bee but Timber within, yet are they all, and eueryevery of them, ouer-layed with beaten Gold. Certaine it is, we all are Sinners, not onelyonly the meaner, but the better sort also: but beeing ouerlaide with that beaten Gold, of his holinesse and righteousnesse before God, our sinne is cleane couered, and wee are altogether faire and beautifull to him. And though wee bee seuerall in our selues, yet are wee so coupled one to another, by the meanes that hee hath ordained. The Barres whereby a speciall part of our vniting The Barres.is performed, are of two sortes; one passing the midst of them all; others, by the out-sides onelyonly. And so it pleaseth him, not onelyonly to vse meanes without, to ioyne vsus together: but also to frame our hearts within to incline vntounto it. But in this they agree, that these also are all of them cleane couered with that beaten Gold aforesaid: both those hearts that are so inclinable thereunto; and those others that woorke it without. And the whole beeing couered in such sort as it is, so beautifully within, and so prouidently without, we also therein may conceiue, that we are vnderunder such a The couerings of it.protection of God, as being to our selues exceeding sweete and glorious, is neuerthelesse both sterne and rough enough vntounto all the intemperate weather of the world whatsoeuer, that at any time goeth about to impaire the tranquilitie and peace of that his Sanctuary. Comming nowe to the fore-front of it, there to enter, and to The enterance of it.consider of the thinges within, first we see the front it selfe to be very faire: and sure we are, that not onelyonly any true entrance towardes God is faire in it selfe; but also discloseth many thinges of inestimable price to such, that others doe neuer attaine vntounto. Being entered in, there find we all to be full of glory: and sure it is, that the The glory within generally.Lordes holy place, euen here on earth, though it consist but of sinfull men, yet hath he adorned the same with so great beauty of spirituall graces, that it is exceeding glorious indeede. More specially we finde therein, a verie good assurance, on the side, that being in him we hauehave our sustenance, euen all thinges needfull, euer ready, The Table.both for our bountifull maintenance heere, and to feede vsus to life euerlasting: on the other, that he also is a perpetuall light vntounto vsus, both to direct vsus in all our waies here, The Lights.and especially in those that are to bring vsus to his endlesse glory. There also we finde, Fthat albeit all thinges we doe vntounto God be exceeding short, imperfect, and stayned too too fouly; so that by right, his holinesse and iustice might neuer accept of any thing that we doe vntounto him: yet are they so perfumed by Christ, and by that incomparable The Altar of Incense.and exquisite scent, that out of his holinesse and righteousnesse dooth euer arise vntounto the Father, that now they are not onelyonly accepted of him, but also become most welcome vntounto him. The Inner place, or the Most-Holy, we finde to bee The Vaile.separated from vsus, by that faire and rich hanging: but the beauty of it without, doth bid vsus expect a far more greater beauty within. For there doe we finde, what speciall The Arke.great reckoning it pleased God to make of the Ten-Commandements: first, in that he prouided such a Casket to keepe them; then, in gracing them so farre as hee did besides. For the Casket that was prouided to keepe them in, was the Arke, that faire and rich Chest, all ouerlaid with beaten Gold: the lid of it of pure Golde; and gloriously decked with those two Cherubims of Gold likewise. It is true, that some other thinges were afterward put hereunto also, (as afterward we are to see:) but originally, or at the first, that rich, faire, & sumptuous Coffer, was prouided onelyonly for p. 133these. It pleaseth God specially to grace them, two seuerall vvayes besides. One was, that this was vouchsafed to hauehave the chiefe and principall place in the Tabernacle, or to be accounted the very chiefe and principall thing thereunto appertaining: and therefore in all their iourneyes the honour of precedency or going before, was giuen vntounto it. The other, that the Lord himselfe made it, as it were the place of his aboad or being among them, his Cloath of estate, or royal throne; euen betweene the wings of those two Cherubims: and thereupon directed them; when at any time they would aske any question of him, that thither they shoulde repaire for resolution, and there attead to hauehave his answere; and told them withall, that thence he would giuegive it, euen as out of those two Tables, The Ten-Commandements. And true it is, that the Ten-Commandements, are another manner The ten commandements.of peece of Scripture (as also may appeare by the manner of giuing of them) than they are commonly taken to be, euen by our Leaders themselues, and those oft-times of the greatest too. And seeing the Lorde would thence giuegive all his answeres, what letteth, but that we also may well assure our selues, that there is no point of dutie or Religion at all, which is not very directly in them, if not in plaine tearmes, and at large, yet (after their manner) implicatiuely and summarily deliuered vntounto vsus? So there also do we beholde, though not in particular, yet in good measure, and very cleerely, a woonderfull excellency of all holy wisedome and knowledge in those two Tables: either leading or driuing al vntounto Christ; and so, to all fulnesse in him. Lastly, we vnderstand likewise, that all this whole building, GAll annointed with sweete Oyle. Ex. 30: 22-29. 40: 9-11, 16.Exod 30:22–29Exod 30:40Exod 30:9–11Exod 30:16together with the chiefe and principall thinges that were therein, and the meaner instruments that did belong vntounto them, were all annointed with that most sweete and precious Oyle of sweet perfume: and so, in such plentifull measure sanctifyed in Christ, that both this whole building it selfe, and eueryevery member and parcell of it, and whatsoeuer is either to it, or to any of those (by that ordinance of his) appertaining, is all made holye and most acceptable to God the Father, though other-wise such, as his Iustice could neuer spare, nor his holynesse euer abide.

10. Reared vp in this order it was (as God himselfe also commanded) in the AExod. 40. 1-33Exod 40:1–33beginning of the second yeare of their deliuerance out of Aegypt, euen the verie first day of the same, they beginning (in such respect) their yeare in the Spring, & so, as it were (for there is some oddes) in the beginning of March with vsus: the first yeare (all but the first fourteene dayes of the same, which they spent in Aegypt) being now spent in comming out of Aegypt, and in comming thus farre into the wildernesse; but the most part of it, in prouiding and making these things aforesayd. But now when these things were prouided, and the Tabernacle accordingly erected, then, shortly after, they were appointed of God to remooue thence, and to go on in their iourney againe. So are we first to consider, of such Stories as belong to the place, where yet they are: then, of such as belong to their remouing hence or going forward. That wee may the better find out what things belonged vntounto the place where yet they are, wee are to note, that heere they aboade, vntill the twentith day of the second month, of the second yeare, since they came out of Aegypt: and therefore, that such things as we hauehave in the end of this fortith chapter of Exodus for the last fiue verses of it, and all that we hauehave in the whole Booke of Exod. 40: 34. Numb. 10: 10Exod 40:34Num 10:10Leuiticus, and in the first nine Chapters, and the first ten verses of the tenth, of the Booke of Numbers, doe all appertaine vntounto the time of their aboad heere. In which time we hauehave som-things appertaining vntounto the Tabernacle for the erecting & dedicating of it, & some thing of other matters besides. VntoUnto the Tabernacle for the erecting & dedicating of it, it doth appertaine, first that God did so declare his owne approbation, or his gracious acceptance of it: then, some other things that at Ex. 40: 34, 35Exod 40:34Exod 40:35the first erecting of it were to be done by others. God declared his approbation or his gracious acceptance of it, both by a plain visible Testimony to al: and, by some priuate talke that then he had with Moses besides. The visible Testimonie was, both in that fire came from him and deuoured the Sacrifice; and in that hee so couered p. 156the same aboue in the sight of them all, vvith that Cloude, and so filled the place within with his glory…, that Moses … a time could not enter into it. That Bpriuate talke that then he had with Moses besides, was as touching certaine lawes that then hee did prescribe vntounto him: and so most fit to bee remembred togither with others, in another place ensuing. Those other things therefore, that were now there to be done, were diuers: some, appertaining to this present; others, to a time soone after ensuing. Of those that were to be done at this present, we are are first to see, what was to be done by Moses himselfe: then, what by others besides. Of those things that were to be done by Moses, some thinges are in plaine tearmes appointed to be done by him: and one thing there is besides, that it seemeth was for the time to be done by him likewise. Those that in plaine tearmes were appointed vntounto him, were the Consecration of Aaron and his Sonnes to the Priest-hood; and the cleansing of the Altar: the former of which is distinctly and plainly set downe how it should be done; the other, nothing so plainly as it. As touching the Consecration of Aaron and his foure Sonnes (Nadab, Abibu, Eleazar, Leuitie. 8: 4, 5and Ithamar) vntounto the Priest-hood, when there-with he was to sent in hand, he first called the Elders and people together, and assured them, that that which now he was to do before them, was by the speciall appointment of God himselfe: so (belike) to preuent all sinister conceite in them, that hee had some partiall meaning therein, as being affectionate carnally vntounto his Brother, and to his Nephews. Then calling them vntounto him, and setting in hand with their consecration, he washeth Exo. 28: 1. 29: 4-9. 40: 12-16, 31. Leuit. 8: 4-36.Exod 28:1Exod 28:29Exod 28:4–9Exod 28:40Exod 28:12–16Exod 28:31Lev 8:4–36their hands and feete at the Lauer; putteth on their holy Garments; and annointeth them vntounto their office with that Oyle of sweete perfume. This beeing done, then a sucking Calfe, and two Rammes without blemish, together with a basket of Bread, Cakes, and Wafers, all vnleauened, and of fine Flower (the bread Ex. 29: 1-3, 10Exod 29:1–3Exod 29:10other-wise but such, as, it seemeth, as was ordinary, or such as was vsed to be eaten with meate, but the Cakes tempered with Oyle as the manner is to vse Butter with vsus, and the Wafers laide ouer with Oyle too) beeing before to that end prouided, were now presented vntounto the Lord. Of which three Beasts, and of that which was in the Basket, part must be offered vntounto the Lord: and part must remaine to Aaron and his Sonnes, for them to feede on. But if they marked, as then it was euident that they had bodily sustenance by that which did redound vntounto them: so had they good and needfull instruction by that which was offered. For first they must hauehave (notwithstanding that so they were called by the appointment of the Lorde himselfe; had already washed; and were revested now with those holy Garments) a Sin-offering sacrificed for them, which was that sucking Calfe: on which themselues Ibid. 11-13.all must lay their hands, to acknowledge their owne guiltinesse before him. Then must the innocent beast be killed, as it were for their sinne: his blood being taken must Moses put, or some little part of it, euen with his finger on the hornes Cof the Altar, there to remaine as a witnesse against them (though the one was his Brother, and his elder too; & the others, his Nephews) and the rest, as of no worth to such a purpose, but onelyonly in figure, must he powre forth at the foote of the Altar: the Kidneyes also, and all the fat of the inwards must Moses burne on the Altar before them. And the better to giuegive them to vnderstand, how exceeding odious they were vntounto God by their sinne; yea, and how vnworthy also to hauehave any place at all among men, such as are the people of God: not onelyonly the excrements Ibid. 14.and skinne, and the other parts of the beast that were the more homely, and to lesse vse, but euen the whole weale besides, though otherwise good and whole-some, and dainty meat, must bee had away, as an execrable thing, and so burnt without the hoast. Then also in the next must the Lord onelyonly be serued: themselues must there hauehave no part at all yet, hauing already acknowledged their vncleannesse vntounto the Lord by the other, and novv hauing offered in this apacificatory sacrifice on their behalfe, and the Lord himselfe giuing his Testimony of it, that it should be an acceptable Sacrifice vntounto him; heerein may they to their great comfort see, that notwithstanding their vnworthinesse, and extreame insufficiency to bee any Priests vntounto him; yet of his goodnesse it pleaseth him to accept of themselues, and p. 157of the administration of that their function. So the next Sacrifice must bee one of Ibid. 15-18.those two Rammes, which being presented before the Lord, then must Aaron and his Sonnes lay on their hands on the head of it also, as beseeching the Lord, in the blood of that guiltlesse Beast (but that being but onelyonly a figure of a more precious blood than it) to accept of them and of their Ministry in those holy thinges about him. Whereupon, the Beast being killed, his blood must be sprinkled round about vponupon the Altar: a more euident Token, that they hauehave no interrest there, nor anie likely-hood of acceptance with him, but onelyonly by bloud. Then must the sacrifice (in some good and decent manner) be cut in pecces; the inwards and legges thereof first washed, and laide in some order together, must bee wholly burnt vntounto the Lord: him-selfe assuring them, that it should bee an acceptable Sacrifice vntounto him. But now commeth the third wherein Aaron and his Sons had a good portion; euen all the flesh almost, and almost all the Bread, Cakes, & Wafers in the basket besides: which was the second of those two Rammes, which now in the third and last place was thus to be sacrificed. First, both Aaron and his Sonnes were to lay their hands Ibid. 19-26.on this also, and so to present him vntounto the Lord as to bee a Peace-offering, or a Sacrifice of Thankes-giuing for them: and so they had very good cause, aswell for teaching them to account them-selues to be very great and detestable sinners, as neuerthelesse for giuing so good assurance vntounto them, that hee accepted of them to this so Dgreat and holy a function. They hauing thus giuen-in that Ramme to bee their Sacrifice, then was Moses to kill it, and not onelyonly to sprinckle the blood of this vponupon the Altar, as in the other: but also to put some little part of it on the lappes of the right eares (as to be a speciall earing to them) on the Thumbe of the right handes, (as their Signet of Golde) and on the great Toe of the right feete, both of Aaron himselfe, and of his Sonnes with him; and mingling another part of it with some of that Oyle of sweete perfume, to besprinkle both them, and their Garments therewith. A thing of greater price, belike than those faire and rich Garments of theyrs; euen those of Aarons also, which were most royall: and those drops, or sprinkling of blood mingled with that Oyle afore-saide, as they were of a fragrant scent, so to be most precious vntounto them, and the fairest Iewels in all their Garments. This being Ibid. 22-2….done, then was only the right shoulder and rump of this, together with the Kidnyes and fat of the inwards, as in the sucking Calfe before, one Loafe, one Cake, and one Wafer out of the Basket, to be burnt on the Altar before the Lord: but first, all these together were to be giuen into the hands of Aaron, and into the handes of his Sonnes, and they were ioyntly to heaue them vp, so to present them vntounto the Lord, as comming from them or being their present: and then was Moses againe to take them, and to make the offering of them. But heere, whereas most of our Translations either adde shaking too and fro withall, in the Text it selfe, or in their Annotations thereon, and then withall yeelde to Rab. Salomon, that it was a munting or wauing Lyra.of it vntounto the foure quarters of the worlde, East, West, North, and South, as claiming thereby on the Lords behalf the Seigniory or Soueraignty ouer the whole (and it doth not appeare to what end, nor how conueniently, all those parcels shold other-wise be shaken of them too and fro:) it would be as I take it woorth the labour, to those that are skilfull in the tongue, well to examine, whether that sence of the word it selfe be not vnproperly vrged heere. For as heauing or holding vppe, that is very proper to the Nature of this kinde of action; all men vsing, when they bring any present, so to make some shew of it vntounto those to whom they bring it: but as for shaking too and fro (and so to turne them about in this) I do not see what vse it may hauehave in such kinde of actions; and God we may thinke had no other meaning in it, but onelyonly to appoint such things to be done as to such actions did most appertaine. Neuerthelesse good probabilities there are, that to the word that there is vsed there is such a sence appertaining. For first of all, those that hauehave added to Calepinus his Latine Dictionary, first the French, Italian, and Spanish words, then also, Ethe Hebrew, Greeke, and Germaine. do for his Agito, as, in Latine set downe Henah Calepinus.and Henidh in Hebrew: and for his Elevo, as, in Latine Nasa, and Herim. Then also, Sanctes Pagninus in his Epitomy Thesauri lingna sancta (not mentioning the p. 158Sanct. Pagni….roote it selfe that now we speake of) doth neuerthelesse set downe these two words, Hi…a… Ʋ…in…, to signifie Hither and thither, which may seeme to import a shaking too and fro. Lastly Arias Mont… …s, and his associates since, hauehave not altogether omitted that Latin Interpretation of Sanctes Pagninus; but hauing the words twice, once in the foure and twentith, and then in the six and twentith Verses again, Arias Montanus.in the former of them they interpret it of shaking, & agitabit, but in the latter of heauing onelyonly, & eleuabit; though in the former of them they set eleuabit in the Margent, but not agitabit in the latter, so farre giuing the aduantage rather to heauing vp, than to shaking. Now before Moses made this offering of those parcels aforesaide, Ibid. 26.he was in like sort to take out the breast of the Mutton, and to heaue that likewise before the Lord, and then to lay it by for himselfe, the Lord allowing that for a peculiar portion to him. But that is to be vnderstood, as in the right of the Priesthood, hee now executing that office, till Aaron and his sonnes were inuested in it. And so should the shoulder hauehave remained too, but that this oblation beeing now made for the Priests themselues, it pleaseth God to exempt but onelyonly the breast vntounto Moses: whereas both now the Lord did sanctifie or appoint both the one and the Ibid. …7, 28.other (from that time forward) to bee as the propper fees for the Priests; and afterward also maketh mention thereof againe vntounto the people, that they may see what Leuit. 7: 31, 34 36.Lev 7:31Lev 7:34in such cases they were to giuegive to them as their due. But now in this case, when the Shoulder and Breast were to bee taken out from amongst the rest, as the portion which GOD allowed vntounto the Priestes, seeing they were to bee taken out by the Priestes themselues, who might bee partiall on their owne behalfe, there might bee some vse of shaking, so to make it more plaine to those that offered the Sacrifice (who should hauehave the rest) that they tooke no more but their owne, and that if any more did at any time happen to cleaue there-unto, yet by such shaking it might easily fall off from it againe. And so Dyonisius, beeing deposed Pl…ark….from his kingdome, and then liuing as a priuate man, when on a time an olde acquaintance of his came merrily vntounto him, opening his Gowne, and shaking the same, when first he came into his presence (as the manner was then to come before Princes, so to shew that they had no secret weapons to do some mischiefe on the sodaine) I pray thee, saith he, shake thy selfe so when thou goest out againe, that so I may see thou hast stolne naught with thee. All the rest of the Mutton must bee sod FEx. 29: …1-34.Exod 29:1–34there; and both it, and all the rest of the bread in the Basket, must remain vntounto Aaron and to his Sonnes: but to be eaten by them alone, and not by any Stranger besides; and if they left any vntill the Morning, then was that also to bee burnt, and might not be eaten by any of them. God so teaching, that they especially shoulde euer depend on his prouidence, and not to be so doubtfull of it, as to make their allowance they got at one such Sacrifice, to serue them for victuals so long as they could, least no body came a good while after to offer the like. These were the things that should be done for their consecration; but then they were not to bee so Ex. 29: 35-37Exod 29:35–37done one day onelyonly, but full out seauen dayes together. In which place also there is special mention againe of the Calfe which was their sinne-offering; but of neither of the Rammes, nor of any of the rest: belike, the better to shew, that their sinne was not such as might so easily be purged; least other-wise Moses might hauehave conceyued, that that Sacrifice being the first day offered, needed not so often to be with the rest reiterated. For, by nature we easily conceiue, that we are not so very foule, as indeed we are. As touching the cleansing of the Altar (a thing that is not so plainly Ibid. 36, 37.set downe, as the other) the obscurity is, whether there was any speciall cleansing that must be performed, but onelyonly some part of this, or al the whole, that vnderunder other name is deliuered vntounto vsus, and that which necessarily thereunto belongeth. If there were any other, I do not yet see what it is; neyther do I see, that it is needfull so to take it: but rather conceiue, that it is to be referred to that which already is spoken of; and, as it seemeth, partly also to that which followeth, the daily Sacrifice. Concerning which, the question is by whom the same was first to bee performed: whether by Moses; or by those that now were entering into their Office. If not but by those that now were entering into their office, then ought it not begin til the eight p. 159day, before which time they were not fully inuested therein; … else it must …ee doone by them before they were fully allowed to that function: neyther of which mee thinketh are likely; and it is certaine, that wee hauehave neyther of them to vsus so plainely deliuered (if at all) as that wee may thereby grow to such resolution. So it seemeth, that this also was the charge of Moses for the time: both because it is now required, before the others were inuested, and the speech thereof so directed to Moses, as that it seemeth now to respect him onelyonly therein; and because we hauehave no farther direction for that matter, till long after the time that they had Num. 2…: 1-10Num 2:1–10the first vse of it, and often besides, as wee may probably thinke for many yeares, euen all the time almost that they were in the Wildernesse. Allotting it therefore Gto bee performed by him for the time, vntill the others were fully inuested in that new office of theirs, then was he also to offer eueryevery of these daies the daylie Sacrifice: the very chiefe and principall Oblation, as I doe take it, which to this Altar did appertaine, and so is it also taken by others. Concerning which; first, we are to consider of the Sacrifice it selfe: then of the Reasons that there are vsed, Lyr.to moue them to hauehave good regard vntounto it. In the Sacrifice likewise, we are to consider, whereof it consisted: and, in what sort it was to be vsed. It consisted partly of a liuing Creature: and partly, of other thinges to goe withall. The liuing Creature was a Lambe, of the first yeare, after that once it was eight daies olde: and the same without blemish; that is, such as had all the Limbs and members perfect; though it were not all of one colour. Those other thinges that were to goe withall, were, a certaine quantity of Flower & Oyle, for an Oblation or meat offering, and a certain quantity of Wine for a drink offering. The Flower is accounted to be about a pottle or a quarter of a peck of our measure: the Oyle and Wine, eyther of them but about a quarter so much by some, accounting the same but to a pinte; but esteemed much more by some other. How the same shold be vsed, I find no question at all in others, but that altogether, not onelyonly the Lambe, but the Flower, Oyle, and Wine likewise, should all bee burned vntounto the Lord: and that to be made plaine enough by the names that are giuen vntounto it, as of Holocaust from the Greeke, and of Burnt-offering in English, and one of the wordes that is vsed for it in the Hebrew (for the other importeth the Ascending of it) which is as much to say, as consumed by fire; though some there be that conceiue, that the Wine should be poured forth on the Altar, as the Text indeede doth plainely talke Numb. 28: 7.Num 28:7of pouring it forth, where it is againe repeated. But now, if it may so stand with the Text, that it should be but onelyonly the Lambe that should bee burned, and that Exod. 29: 42. Num. 28: 6, 8.Exod 29:42Num 28:6Num 28:8the name of burnt-offering be giuen to the whoie, but in respect of the chiefe and principall part thereof, which should wholy bee in such sort consumed; and that the pouring foorth to the Lord that there is spoken of, may bee meant of pouring forth from the common Vessell wherein it was brought, into some holy Vessell of the Tabernacle to that end ordained: then might we heerein see, whence might arise some prouision for those that serued at the Altar; especially, if the Oyle and Wine may be conceiued to bee aunswerable in proportion to the Flower, as there Tremel. I…. in C…gi….are of the learned that are so perswaded. There is no question, but that as God tooke order for them, they had great allowance besides; but yet for the most part but casuall onelyonly: this was not much, and might but hardly serue some very fewe; Hbut it was standing, and twice to be had eueryevery day. Againe, being called a Meate and Drinke offering, the Name we may see would easily bee fauourable to such an Numb. 28▪ 8.Num 28:8Interpretation, if otherwise it may stand with the Text it selfe. The reasons that there are vsed, doe strongly conclude on that for which they are brought, in that Exo. 29▪ 42-46Exod 29:42–46they offer so great fauours thence to them all. They shew, likewise how some of our Translatours hauehave beene deceiued. That kinde of clensing of the Altar that did necessarily appertaine to the performing of these aforesaid Sacrifices, was but such as is incident to all such actions: as first, to make the Altar cleane againe of the Ashes, bloud, and other foulnesse that it got by the Sacrifice before offered, before that they offered any other on it. Those others besides were the Priestes, and Princes. The Priests being now in those seuen daies consecrated to their office, were p. 160on the eight to take their busines in hand: but some of them soone offended therein to their owne ruine. The businesse that now they had to deale in, was (from this time for … the execution of the Priesthood, in al things therunto appertaining: and so were they now to sacrifice, both as this present occasion did require; and as otherwise also was incident vntounto them. As this present occasion did require, they … to Sacrifice first for themselues: then, for the people. When first they were to offer for themselues, Aaron being the cheefe among them, was himselfe also to be the principall Minister therein: the others, to be attendants and assistantes vntounto him. Aaron therefore, being first admonished to hauehave such thinges in a readines, Levit. 9: 1-5.Lev 9:1–5as for the sacrifices of him and his Sonnes should be needfull, and then to admonish the people what they also must hauehave ready for them, and nowe hauing all thinges ready; first, setteth in hand with those sacrifices for themselues; then, for the people. For themselues he offered (as he was directed by Moses, and he from God) two Ibid. 7-14.seuerall Sacrifices: a Calfe for a Sin-offering, for the one; and a Ram for a Burnt-offering, for the other. For the people when he was to offer, he did not onelyonly offer their sacrifices for them: but also told them of another matter that might whet them on to that businesse. For them hee was to offer more than for themselues: but first such as he offered for themselues; then, a Peace-offering besides. Theyr Sinne-offering, was an He-Goat; theyr Burnt-offering, both a Calfe and a lamb: Ibib. 5: 15-17both which Sacrifices he had offered for himselfe and his Sonnes before. But here in this Burnt-offering of theirs, is mention made of a Meate-offering also, as of Ibid. 17.course going withall, though there were no mention thereof before, but onelyonly in Itheir Peace-offering: and so is it the iudgement of others, I meane, that they should concurre, or goe together. Their Peace-offering, which they offered more …ib. Angl. in L…u. 2: 1 Tre. & I…n. in Liu. 9: 17. Leuit. 9: 4, 18-21. Ibid. 4-6.Lev 9:4Lev 9:18–21for them, than for themselues, was a Bullocke and a Ramme: and their Meate-offering besides. That other matter whereof he told them to whet them on to this businesse, was (as Moses also had told him before) that the Lord that day would appeare vntounto them: whereupon also the assembly drewe neere, and there awaited that fauour of God. Besides these, it was otherwise also incident vntounto him to offer the daily Sacrifice, which also is noted that he did: and the proper Sacrifice of the Prince Ibid. 17. Num. 7: 10, 11Num 7:10Num 7:11that fell for that present. Those that did so soone offend, were Nadab and Abihu, the two eldest Sonnes of Aaron: concerning whom, wee are first to consider of that accident it selfe; then, of somthing else that came in thereupon. In that accident it selfe we are in like manner; first, to inquire, what their offence was; then, to consider of the iudgement, that for the same did fall vponupon them. Concerning their offence, it is not altogether vnlikely, but that the occasion of it also may here be noted (as also it is the iudgment of some that so it is:) & then are we to consider; first of the occasion of it; then of the offence it selfe. The occasion of it, is by some supposed to be, that Rab. Simeon. Lyr.they had ouer-shot themselues in drinking; & that opinion resteth on two principall grounds: yet but one of them of any force indeed; & the other of small importance. Leu. 10: 8-11.Lev 10:8–11That which is of som force indeed, or at least may seem so to be, is, that the Lord seemeth thereupon soone after to forbid thē (during the time of their ministration) wine, and strong Drinke: and addeth the reason, to the ende that they may the better discerne all such thinges as belong to their duty. That which is but of small importance, Arreptis.is, that whereas the vulgar Translation vseth a word that importeth an inconsiderate, rash, and disorderly catching or snatching vp of their Incense-Cups, when they were therein to offer vp sweete perfume vntounto the Lord; and such a kinde of behauiour, doth import the party that in such case should vse it, to be farre out of temper: Lyr.hence it is gathered, that they were in drinke when they did set in hand with that their businesse; and that the Text it selfe likewise doth import it. But the originall V…ab. Tremel Inn. Bibl. Aug. S…ct. P…g…i….is so farre from yeelding that sense, that such as hauehave with greater diligence and more aduisedly translated since, hauehave not beene so bold so farre to charge them and the word it selfe that there is vsed, hath no such sence ascribed vntounto it. The offence it selfe, is noted to hauehave two principal heades: one, very certaine; the other also, to Leu. 10: 1. Num 3: 4. and 26: 61.Lev 10:1Num 3:4Num 26:61hauehave good likelihoodes of it. That which is certaine, is, that they offered with Kstrange fire: and so are they most commonly charged. But then wee are heerein to p. 161consider, that without blame, such fire was vsed before: and that, as yet, we reade of no Commaundement giuen, of taking the other. So it may seeme their fault to bee, no manifest breach of that Commaundement; but onelyonly this vnaduisednesse in them, that being now to burne sweet perfume vntounto the Lord, notwithstanding that GOD had now sent fire so strangely from his presence: yet they did not thinke it materiall what fire they tooke for this matter; nor that it was any thing needefull, so to inquire of the Lorde for that. Not much vnlike, as it seemeth to mee, to that defect that was in the Figge-Tree, when Christ beeing hungry, came to bee releeued by it, Mat. 11: 12, 13Matt 11:12Matt 11:13but found no helpe at it, because as yet the season did not serue to that purpose. For truely euen Nature it selfe should hauehave yeelded, without respect of accustomed seasons, to the onelyonly Lord of Nature and all: and these two Sonnes of Aaron, beeing now so graciously taken so neere vntounto him, and to so honourable a seruice of his, should not onelyonly hauehave taken heede, that they did nothing against any thing that himselfe had commaunded: but also, that they did nothing at all vntounto him, neither great nor little, in the way of his worshippe, but onelyonly that which they were most assured that himselfe prescribed; and therefore, that if in any thing it was not yet knowne, what was his holy will and pleasure, in any wise they first enquired, before that euer they presumed to doe it. And therefore the sanctifying that there is spoken of, seemeth Leuit. 10: 3.Lev 10:3not to be so much referred to God; as vntounto those that attend his seruice: and so the sense to be, that so many as are vouchsafed to be taken neere vntounto him, or that are imployed in his holy seruice, are euer to hauehave a speciall regard to all their wayes, that in all thinges they ayme at his will and pleasure so neere as they can. That which is not so certaine, but yet hath good likelihoode for it, is, that they had a meaning Tremel. Inn.with them to enter into the Most-holy place with that their Incense; whereas God had yet set them nothing at all to doe there, and shortly after shewed what was his minde for that matter: namely, that onelyonly the High-Priest should come in thither; and that but once a yeare, and then with diuers speciall Ceremonies also. The likelihood Leu. 16: 1-34.Lev 16:1–34whereupon it standeth, is, that vppon the mention of their death, the Lorde doth afterward aduertise Moses, how to instruct his Brother Aaron, that hee also run in no danger therein. For seeing that Aaron is so specially warned how to enter in there, vponupon the death of his two Sonnes before, it may bee conceiued, that they had some such meaning with them; though others there bee that doe not so take it; and Vatab. Lyr. Bibl. Angl.doe otherwise apply it besides. Their iudgement that did fall vponupon them for it, beeing, as it was a suddaine and a fearefull death, is it selfe a warning sufficient to all, Lhow odious a thing it is vntounto God, not much to regard what hee prescribeth, but in Leuit. 10: 2.Lev 10:2his matters to follow our owne mindes also: when as wee see it punished so roundly heere; and on those who but then entring into their office, could not yet be well acquainted with it. But this is not all neyther. For wee are farther giuen to vnderstand, that the iudgement of God was so iust therein, and he on all handes so to bee iustified for the same (with what face then will those worshippings of men at that day appeare?) that neither might the Brother in that case mourne for his Brother, no Ibid. 6, 7.nor the Father for his Sonne. Those thinges that came in thereuppon, were, that both Aaron and his Sonnes forgot themselues in other thinges also: insomuch that Moses was faine to reprooue them for it, and to set them right againe. And it is Leu. 10: 12-20Lev 10:12–20no rare thing, that the rashnesse or negligence of some should disturb the seruice of God vntounto many: euen to those that are most carefull of all. The Princes perceiuing that the Tabernacle was then to bee erected, and thinking it their partes (at that time especially) to giuegive some testification of their duties, did then come in with their offeringes also: but as they were heerein of good minde to glorifie God; so it pleased God to honour them. The offering that they were purposed to make, was, first by them all ioyntly together; then, by eueryevery one a part by himselfe. Ioyntly together Num. 7: 1-3.Num 7:1–3their offering was sixe Chariots couered: but of no greater quantity or burthen, but that one yoke of Oxen (which the Princes also did giuegive withall) might bee able to deale with one of those Chariots, and with the burthen thereof thereto appertaining. These did the Lorde himselfe will Moses, to take of them to the vse of the Sanctuary: and he, so doing, did shortly after bestow them among the Leuites, p. 162Ibid. 4-9.when they were taken to the charge of the Sanctuary. Seuerally they were of purpose to offer a-part by themselues (eueryevery one like vntounto other; and that belike, to preuent aemulation among them) a Siluer Charger of about 130. ounces in weight, (the common Sickle beeing about halfe an once in weight, and the Sickle of the Sanctuary being double vntounto it) a Siluer Boale of seauenty ounces, both full of fine Flower mingled with Oyle for a Meate-offering; and an Incense Cup of Gold, of ten ounces full of Incense: all which (the Flower and Incense being to be spent as it came with their Sacrifices which they brought withall) were thence-forth to remaine to the vse of the Sanctuary. For their Sacrifices they were of purpose to offer besides, Ibid. 15-17. & 1…-….eueryevery of them; first, in the way of deuotion, or exercising their Religion or Faith towardes GOD generally, a young Bullocke, a Ramme, and a Lambe, for a Burnt-offering: then more specially, both a He-Goate for a Sinne-offering so to acknowledge Mtheir owne vnworthynesse; and two Bullockes. fiue Rammes, fiue Hee-Goats, and fiue Lambs, for a Peace-offering, so to testifie their acknowledging of the fauours of God towardes them, and their reioycing in him againe. The honor that God did them herein, was, that whereas they meant no other, but all to come on one day, it pleased God to giuegive a seuerall day to eueryevery of them: a good comfortable token, that whosoeuer they are that honour God, those also will hee honour; and then lesse maruell, and lesse matter too, albeit he let others slip to some speciall disgrace, who hauehave little regarded to honor him.