Westminster Annotations, 2 Chronicles

Westminster Annotations · 2 Chronicles

ANNOTATIONS On the second Book of the CHRONICLES.

The speciall Argument of the second Book of Chronicles.

THe second Book of Chronicles contains an History of four hundred seventy two yeers, from the beginning of Solomons reign to Israels return from captivity▪ It registers the state of the Kingdom of Judah, under ninteen Kings of Davids posterity, and Athaliah the usurper. OnelyOnly sometimes some of the affairs of the Kingdom of Israel, wherein the two Kingdoms had to do one with another, are intermingled.

The Title.

The second, &c.] See the notes on the Title of the first of the Chronicles.

CHAP. I.

Vers. 1. SOlomon the son of David was strengthned in his kingdom] 1 Kings 2. 46.

V. 2. spake unto all Israel] As David had done before, chap. 28. 1. and 29. 1.

V. 3. the high place] See the notes on 1 King. 3. 4.

Gibeon] 1 Chro. 16. 39. and 21. 29.

V. 4. But the ark of God had David brought up from Kirjath-jearim] 2 Sam. 6. 2, 17. and 1 Chron. 13. 6.

V. 5. the brasen altar that Bezaleel the son of Ʋri] Exodus 38. 1.

he put] Or, was there.

V. 7. In that night] This history is before set down, 1 King. 3. 5, &c.

V. 8. to reign in his stead] 1 Chron. 28. 5.

V. 9. for thou hast made me king over a people] 1 King. 3. 7.

a people] Or, a great people that cannot be numbred, nor counted for multitude, 1 King. 3. 8.

like the dust of the earth] Heb. much as the dust of the earth.

V. 10. Give me now wisdom and knowledge] 1 Kings 3. 9.

wisdom] Or, an understanding heart.

go out and come in before this people] Num. 27. 17.

none of the kings have had] 1 Chron. 29. 25. chap. 9. 22. Eccles. 2. 9.

V. 13. reigned] Continued to reign with such wisdom and glory, as God had promised.

V. 14. And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen] 1 King. 4. 26. (see the notes there) and 10. 26, &c.

V. 15. made] Heb. gave.

silver and gold at Jerusalem as plenteous as stones] 1 King. 10. 27. chap. 9. 27.

V. 16. Solomon had horses brought cut of Egypt] Heb. the going forth of the horses which was Solomons. See the notes on 1 King. 10. 28. chap. 9. 28.

V. 17. a chariot, &c.] See the notes on 1 King. 10. 29.

by their means] Heb. by their hand.

CHAP. II.

Vers. 1. AN house for the name, &c.] The temple. See v. 4. and the notes on 1 King. 8. 16.

an house for his kingdom] The kings palace, 1 King. 9. 1. This made much for the glory of his kingdom, and for the use of the subjects of his kingdom.

V. 2. six hundred to oversee] See the notes on 1 King. 5. 16.

V. 3. Huram] Or, Hiram, 1 King. 5. 1.

V. 4. the name] Or, honour. See the notes on 1 King. 5. 5. and 8. 16.

sweet incense] Heb. incense of spices.

continuall shew-bread] Which was to be supplied with new bread, time after time, Exod. 25. 30. Levit. 24. 8.

for ever] See the notes on 1 King. 8. 13.

V. 6. But who is able to build him an house] 1 King. 8. 27. chap. 6. 18.

is able] Heb. hath retained, or obtained strength.

save onelyonly] Not to include God in the temple, but to worship him therein.

V. 7. Send, &c.] This hath reference to v. 3.

to grave] Heb. to grave gravings.

V. 8. algum-trees] Or, almug-gim, 1 King. 10. 11.

V. 9. wonderfull great] Heb. great and wonderfull.

V. 10. twenty thousand measures] See the notes on 1 King. 5. 11.

V. 12. endued with prudence and understanding] Heb. knowing prudence and understanding.

V. 13. of Huram] Who was servant to Huram my father.

V. 14. The son of a woman] See the notes on 1 King. 7. 14.

to finde out every device] Artificially to invent and set out whatsoever shall be proposed to him.

V. 16. as much as thou shalt need] Heb. according to all thy need.

in floats] See the notes on 1 King. 5. 9.

J…ppa] Heb. Japho.

V. 17. And Solomon numbred all the strangers] Heb. the men the strangers. As v. 2.

strangers] That were of the seed of the Canaanites, but not clean destroyed. See 1 King. 9. 20.

V. 18. threescore and ten thousand, &c.] As it is v. 2.

CHAP. III.

Vers. 1. SOlomon began to build the house of the Lord at Jerusalem] 1 King. 6. 1, &c.

mount Moriah] Gen. 22. ….

where the Lord appeared unto David his father] Or, which was seen of David his father.

appeared] In fire, 1 Chron. 21. 26.

Ornan the Jebusite] See the notes on 1 Chron. 21. 18.

Ornan] Or, Araunah, 2 Sam. 24. 18.

V. 3. things] Or, measures.

wherein Solomon was instructed for the building of the house of God] 1 Kings 6. 2.

instructed] Heb. founded.

The length, &c.] The height thirty cubits, 1 King. 6. 2.

the first measure] The sacred measure (which is the greatest, and which David left as a patern, 1 Chron. 28. 11.) is here meant.

V. 4. porch that was in the front of the house] 1 Kings 6. 3.

V. 5. the greater house] That part of the temple where the priests did their daily services: this was as big again as the most holy, 1 King. 6. 17. 20.

set thereon palm-trees] Carved it with knops and open flowers, 1 King. 6. 18.

V. 6. garnished] Heb. covered.

Parvaim] See the notes on 1 King. 9. 28. and 6. 20.

V. 8. the most holy house] Heb. the house of holy of holies.

six hundred talents] Two millions and two hundred and fifty thousand pound. See the notes on 1 Chron. 22. 14.

V. 9. fifty shekels] Five and twenty ounces. See on 2 Chro. 22. 14.

the upper chambers] See the notes on 1 King. 6. 5.

V. 10. che…ubims] See the notes on 1 King. 6. 23.

of image-work] Or, (as some think) of moveable-work: whose peeces might be taken asunder.

V. 13. stood on their feet] Upright at the two ends of the mercy-seat.

their faces were inward] Their backs being tow…rds the west.

inward] Or, toward the house. Called the greater house, v. 5.

V. 14. vail of blue] Matth. 27. 51. This vail distinguished the most holy place from the holy, Exod. 26. 31, &c.

wrought ch…rubims thereon] Heb. caused to ascend.

V. 15. two pillars of thirty and five cubits high] Heb. long▪ 1 King. 7. 15. See the notes there. Jere. 52. 21.

V. 17. reared up the pillars before the temple] 1 King. 7. 21.

Jachin] That is, he shall establish.

Boaz] That is, in it is strength.

CHAP. IIII.

Vers. 1. AN altar] Compare this verse with Exod. 27. 1. and you may see how farre this exceeded the altar of the tabernacle. For the temple it self far exceeded the tabernacle.

ten cubits the height] There was a plain ascent like an hill to go up and offer on this high altar. In this respect the priest is said to come down from the altar, Levit. 9. 22. By steps they might not go up to an altar, Exod. 20. 26. unlesse that inhibition were temporary. See the notes on Exod. 20. 26.

V. 2. Also he made a molten sea of ten cubits] 1 King. 7. 23. See the notes there.

from brim to brim] Heb. from his brim to his brim.

V. 3. And under it was the similitude of …xen] 1 King. 7. 24.

under it] Under the brim of the sea.

the similitude of oxen] These oxen were cast with the sea on the sides thereof: and were different from the twelve oxen on which it stood, v. 4. Either these are called knops (1 King. 7. 24.) or knops were joyned with them.

V. 5. with flowers of lilies] Or, like a lilie-flower.

three thousand baths] See the notes on 1 King. 7. 26.

V. 6. te…lavers] The bases whereon these lavers stood are largely described, 1 King. 7. 27, 38, &c.

such things as they offered for the burnt-offering] Heb. the work of burnt-offering.

they washed in the… ] See Ezek. 40. 38.

V. 7. ten candlesticks] 1 King. 7. 49.

their form] Which is prescribed, Exod. 25. 31, &c. and a patern thereof given, 1 Chron. 28. 11, 15.

V. 8. ten tables] See the notes on 1 King. 7. 38.

an hundred basins] Or, bowls. See the notes on 1 Kings 7. 40.

V. 9. the court] See the notes on 1 King. 6. 36.

V. 10. he set the sea] See the notes on 1 King. 7. 39.

V. 11. basins] Or, bowls.

finished the work that he was to make] Heb. finished to make: that is, made an end of making.

V. 12. pommels] Or, bowls, 1 King. 7. 41.

wreaths] Or, net-works.

V. 13. upon the pillars] Heb. upon the face.

V. 14. lavers] Or, caldrons.

V. 16. Huram his father] See the notes on chap. 2. 13.

bright brasse] Heb. made bright, or scoured.

V. 17. clay-ground] Heb. thicknesses of the ground. For clay is a thick kinde of ground.

V. 18. for the weight, &c.] Therefore he left them unweighed, 1 King. 7. 47. See on 1 Chron. 22. 3.

V. 21. perfect gold] Heb. perfections of gold. See the notes on 1 King. 9. 28.

V. 22. ba…ns] Or, bowls.

the entry, &c.] These were covered with gold: for the doors were made of olive-tree, 1 King. 6. 31, &c.

CHAP. V.

Vers. 1. ANd Solomon brought in all the things that David his father had dedicated] 1 Kings 7. 51.

the silver, &c.] Over and above that which was laid out upon the temple.

V. 2. Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel] 1 King. 8. 1, 2, &c.

V. 3. the seventh monethmonth] Called Ethanim, 1 King. 8. 2.

V. 4. Levites] Who were priests, vers. 5. See the notes on 1 Chron. 15. 2.

V. 5. the priests, &c.] The priests onelyonly did bear the ark: The Levites carried the other things, Num. 4. 15.

V. 9. there it is] Or, they are there, as 1 King. 8. 8.

V. 10. put therein at H…reb] Deut. 10. 2, 5.

when] Or, where.

V. 11. all the priests] Both those, whose course it was then to wait: and those also, whose turn it was to have been as home.

present] Heb. found.

sanctified] See the notes on 1 Chron. 15. 14.

by course] But all together.

V. 12. Also the Levites which were &c.] 1 Chron. 25. 1.

singers] Or, masters of musick.

cymbals] See the notes on 1 Chron. 15. 16.

east-end] Next to the door of the temple.

V. 13. as one] In the matter which they sung, and in their melodious harmony, and in the time wherein they continued.

For he is good] Psal. 136.

a cloud] See the notes on 1 King. 8. 10, 11.

CHAP. VI.

Vers. 1. SAid Solomon] 1 Kings 8. 12, &c.

thick darknesse] Levit. 16. 2.

V. 5. a ruler] Such a ruler as David, who was an especiall type of Christ, and in whose seed a royall succession was established till Christ, Gen. 49. 10.

V. 6. my name] The manifestation of Gods presence: which at first was the ark: and after that, the temple, in which he was worshipped. See the notes on 1 King. 11. 36.

V. 7. It was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the Lord God of Israel] 2 Sam. 7. 2. 1 Chron. 28. 2.

V. 11. the children of Israel] Their fathers when he brought them out of the land of Egypt, 1 King. 8. 21.

V. 12. spread forth his hands] Toward heaven, v. 13. 1 King. 8. 22.

V. 13. scaffold] This remained in the temple after this, for kings to stand on it before the people. See the notes on 2 King. 11. 14, &c.

long] Heb. the length thereof, &c.

the cour… ] The great court mentioned, chap. 4. 9.

stood, &c.] See the notes on 1 King. 8. 22.

V. 14. there is no God like thee in the heaven, nor in the earth] Exod. 15. 11.

V. 16. There shall not fail thee a man] Heb. There shall not a man be cut off. 2 Sam. 7. 12. 1 King. 2. 4. and 6. 12.

yet so, that thy children take heed to their way, &c.] Psal. 132. 12.

in my law] Or, before me, 1 King. 8. 18.

V. 17. David] My father, 1 King. 8. 26.

V. 18. behold] Chap. 2. 6. Isai. 66. 1. Act. 7. 49.

V. 19. before thee] To day, 1 King. 8. 18.

V. 20. towards this place] Or, in this place.

V. 21. make] Heb. pray.

V. 22. and an oath be laid upon him] Heb. and he require an …ath of him.

V. 23. requi…ing] Condemning, 2 King. 8. 32.

V. 24. be put] Or, be smitten.

in] Or, towards.

V. 26. heaven is shut up] 1 King. 17. 1.

V. 27. when thou hast taught] That thou teach them, 1 King. 8. 36.

V. 28. be dearth in the land] Chap. 20. 9.

in the cities of their land] Heb. in the land of their gates.

V. 29. in this house] Or, toward this house.

V. 30. knowest the hearts of the children of men] 1 Chro. 28. 9.

V. 31. so long as they live] Heb. all the dayes which.

in the land] Heb. upon the face of the land.

V. 32. which is not of thy people Israel] Joh. 12. 20. Acts 8. 27.

if they come] See what is here in serted 1 Kings 8. 42.

in this house] Or, toward this house.

V. 33. this house which I have built, is called by thy name] Heb. thy name is called upon this house.

V. 35. cause] Or, right.

V. 36. no man which sinneth not] Prov. 20. 9. Eccles. 7. 20. Jam. 3. 2. 1 Joh. 1. 8.

they carry them away captives] Heb. they that take them captives carry them away.

unto a land, &c.] Of the enemy, 1 King. 8. 46.

V. 37. bethink themselves] Heb. bring back to their heart.

of their captivity] Or, of them that carried them captives, 1 King. 8. 47.

V. 39. cause] Or, right.

against thee] See what is added, 1 King. 8. 50, &c.

V. 40. thine eyes be open] See the notes on 1 King. 8. 29.

unto the prayer that is made in this place] Heb. to the prayer of this place.

V. 41. therefore arise] Psal. 132. 8.

thy resting-place] The temple where the ark was setled. See the notes on 1 Chron. 28. 2.

thou, and the ark] Because God was wont to manifest his presence over the ark. See on 2 King. 19. 15.

of thy strength] By which thou didst manifest thy power at Jordan (Josh. 3. 15, 16.) and among the Philistines, 1 Sam. 5. 4, 6.

clothed] Adorned as with a garment, Isai. 61. 10.

salvation] Such graces as may bring salvation to themselves, and others, 1 Tim. 4. 16.

goodnesse] The favour and goodnesse thou shewest to them.

V. 42. turn not] Reject not the prayer.

thine anointed] Whom thou didst ordain to be king, 1 Chron. 28. 5.

the mercies] The promises which thy mercy moved thee to make to David about his posterity.

CHAP. VII.

Vers. 1. WHen Solomon had made an end of praying] 1 Kin. 8. 54. Solomons blessing the LORD and his people, is added to the foresaid prayer, 1 King. 8. 55, &c.

fire came down from heaven] Levit. 9. 24. See on 1 King. 18. 23, 38.

the glory] A cloud. See on 1 King. 8. 10, 11.

V. 3. bowed themselves] See on 1 Chron. 29. 20.

to the ground] In the lowest manner that they could.

For he is good] It may be that the people sung with the Levites the 136. Psalm: whereof this is the staff, or burden in every verse: or that, when the Levites had sung the former part of the verse, they all sung this.

V. 5. a sacrifice] Peace-offerings, 1 King. 8. 63.

V. 6. And the priests waited on &c.] 1 Chron. 15. 16.

their offices] Which belonged to them to execute.

of the Lord] Composed to the honour of God.

had made to praise] Which David had ordained to sing out the 136. Psalm.

when David praised] When David delivered into their hands that Psalm to be sung to the honour of God.

by their ministery] Heb. by their hand.

the priests] The one hundred and twenty priests, mentioned, chap. 5. 12.

Israel s…od] In the great court, chap. 4. 9.

V. 7. hollowed the middle] See on 1 King. 8. 64, 65.

V. 8. the …iver of Egypt] Josh. 13. 3.

V. 9. a solemn] Heb. a restraint.

V. 11. Solomon finished the house of the Lord] 1 King. 9. 1, &c.

prosperously] With very good successe, according to his fathers charge (1 Chron. 22. 11.) and his own desire.

V. 12. appeared, &c.] The second time, 1 King. 9. 2.

and have chosen this place to my self for an house of sacrifice] Deut. 12. 5.

V. 13. shut up heaven] Heaven is here resembled to a vessell, or barrell full of water, which being shut, no water can come out of it, Job 38. 37.

lo…usts] See on 1 King. 8. 37.

V. 14. which are called by my name] Heb. upon whom my name is called. Or, who professe my name, Deut. 28. 10. Amos 9. 12.

seek my face] Learn to know me, as I am made known in my word.

heal their land] Remove all evils from them.

V. 15. mine eyes shall …e open] Chap. 6. 40.

unto the prayer that is made in this place] Heb. to the prayer of this place.

V. 16. I chosen, and sanctified this house] Chap. 6. 6. 1 King. 9. 3, &c.

V. 18. There shall not fail thee] Chap. 6. 16. Heb. There shall not be …ut off to thee.

V. 19. But if &c.] Levit. 26. 14. Deut. 28. 15.

ye] And your children, 1 King. 9. 6.

V. 20. pluck them up] Or, …ut off Israel, 1 King. 9. 7.

will make it, &c.] Or, Israel shall be a proverb.

V. 21. Why hath the Lord done thus unto this land] Deut. 29. 24. Jere. 22. 8, 9.

CHAP. VIII.

Vers. 1. IT came to passe] 1 King. 9. 10, &c.

at the end of twenty yeers] Solomon, like a pious and prudent prince, first built the LORDS house, then his own, after that, cities for enlarging his kingdom, and for his people to dwell in, v. 2.

V. 2. the cities, &c.] Solomon had given them to Huram: who disliking them, returned them to Solomon, 1 King. 9. 12.

V. 3. Hamath-zobah] Which appertained to the king of Zobah, 1 King. 11. 23.

prevailed against it] By force got it.

V. 4. Tadmor] See on 1 King. 9. 18.

V. 5. Beth-hor…n] See on 1 King. 9. 17.

fenced cities] With strong walls round about.

V. 6. all that Solomon desired to build] Heb. all the desire of Solomon, which he desired to build.

V. 10. two hundred and fifty] See on 1 King. 9. 23.

V. 11. brought up the daughter of Pharaoh] 1 King. 3. 1. and 7. 8. and 9. 24.

out of the city, &c.] Solomon at first placed his wife in the city of David (1 King. 3. 1.) upon necessity, because he had not elsewhere a place fit for such a princesse: but after he had built the LORDS and his own house, he built a fair palace for her, 1 King. 7. 8. into which he removed her from the city of David.

because holy] This reason was ceremoniall: hereby it appears, that he reserved▪ the place where the ark formerly stood, for some holy use, or left it void. But if Pharaoh's daughter had there still continued, he must have taken it in, to make a fair and spacious palace for his wife.

holy] Heb. holinesse.

V. 12. before the porch] See on 1 King. 8. 22.

V. 13. after a certain rate] See on 1 King. 8. 59.

day] Exod. 29. 38.

three times in the yeer] Exod. 23. 14. Deut. 16. 16.

V. 14. courses] 1 Chron. 24. 1.

before the priests] See on 1 Chron. 23. 4.

as the duty, &c.] See on 1 King. 9. 59.

porters] 1 Chron. 9. 17.

at every gate] Heb. at the door and door.

so had David the man of God commanded] Heb. so was the commandment of David the man of God.

V. 15. commandment] Which king Solomon gave.

any matter] Service to be done.

concerning the treasures] That is, about well looking to the treasures.

V. 16. all the work] Whatsoever was requisite for beginning and perfecting all that Solomon did, was from time to time prepared.

unto the day, &c.] Or, from laying the foundation.

and untill] Or, even untill.

V. 17. Eloth] Or, Elath, Deut. 2. 8.

at the sea side, &c.] In these places Solomon had a navie of ships made, in which respect he is said to go thither.

V. 18. Huram sent, &c.] Or, conducted, or guided for him, Gen. 18. 16. See the Notes on 1 King. 9. 27.

and servants] Or, even servants.

four hundred and fifty talents] See on 1 King. 9. 2….

CHAP. IX.

Vers. 1. WHen the queen of Sheba, &c.] The history recorded in this chapter, is almost word for word set down, 1 King. 10. 1, &c. See the Notes thereon. Matth. 12. 42. Luk. 11. 31.

the same of Solomon] Concerning the Name of the LORD, 1 King. 1. 10.

V. 4. cu…-bearers] Or, butlers.

and their apparell] This is twice set down, because the ministers had their distinct apparell fit for their offices, and the cup-bearers theirs.

V. 5. report] Heb. word.

acts] Or, sayings.

V. 8. his throne] The throne of Israel, 1 King. 10. 9. See the Notes there.

V. 10. the servants, &c.] Which went in the navie, 1 King. 10. 11.

V. 11. te…rises] Or, st…yes Heb. high wayes.

V. 12. beside that which she had brought] Or, besides that which Solomon gave her for the gifts which she gave him, he gave her other gifts of his royall bounty, 1 King. 10. 13.

V. 14. governours] Or, captains.

V. 18. stayes] Heb. hands.

V. 20. pure] Heb. shut up.

pure gold] See on 1 King. 6. 26.

none w…r… of silver] Or, there was no silver in them.

V. 21. ivory] Or, …e ha…ts teeth.

V. 25. had four thousand sta…s] 1 King. 4. 26.

V. 26. he reigned] See on 1 King. 4. 21.

from the, &c.] Gen. 15. 18.

river] That is, Euphrates.

V. 27. made] Heb. gave.

V. 28. And they brought, &c.] 1 King. 10. 28. chap. 1 16.

V. 29. acts of Solomon] See 1 King. 11. 41.

first and last] See on Chap. 16. 11.

book] Heb. words.

book of Nathan] Or part of the first book of kings is here meant; or these prophets penned civill records, which, without prejudice to canonicall Scripture, might be lost.

Iddo] Chap. 12. 15.

the seer] See on 2 King. 17. 13.

CHAP. X.

Vers. 1. REhoboam] The history of this chapter is almost word for word recorded, 1 King. 12. 1, &c. See the Notes there.

V. 5. Come again] Depart …e for three days, 1 King. 12. 5.

V. 7. be kinde] And therein shew thy self as a servant, 1 Kin. 12. 7.

V. 11. put] Heb. laded.

V. 15. band of Ahijah] 1 King. 11. 29.

V. 18. Hadoram] Or, Adoram, 1 King. 12. 18.

but] Or, therefore, ibid.

made speed to get up to his chariot] Heb. strengthned himself.

V. 19. unto this day] The peoples making Jeroboam king over Israel is here added, in 1 King. 12. 20.

CHAP. XI.

Vers. 1. WHen Rehoboam, &c. The four first verses of this chapter are set down, in 1 King. 12. 21, 22, 23, 24. See the Notes thereon.

V. 4. brethren] See on Chap. 28. 8.

V. 5. in Judah] In the kingdom of Judah, under which Benjamin is comprised (v. 10.) yea, and part of Simeon too; in which tribe was Etam, 1 Chron. 4. 32.

V. 6. He built] Or, fortified; for these cities were built before. So 1 King. 15. 17.

V. 8. Mareshah] Chap. 14. 9.

V. 10. Aijalon] See 1 Chron. 6. 69.

V. 11. put captains] To keep the said cities safe, and to keep out enemies. These captains are supposed to be his sons, v. 23. in them he might more securely confide.

V. 12. severall city] Heb. city and city.

shields, &c.] All sorts of weapons offensive and defensive.

V. 13. in all Israel] In their severall cities thorowout the severall tribes of Israel.

resorted to him] Heb. presented themselves to him.

V. 14. Jeroboam] Chap. 13. 9.

his sons] Who were governours in sundry places, as v. 23.

executing the priests office] Teaching the people the law of the LORD, and going in their accustomed courses to the temple. See a pretended reason, 1 King. 12. 26.

V. 15. priests, &c.] Such as are mentioned, 1 King. 12. 31. and 13. 33.

devils] The Hebrew word signifieth hairy horrid things, as satyres, Isai. 13. 21. In such shapes many idolls were wont to be set out, as affrighted the beholders: and devils, for the most part, use to appear in horrible shapes. The word foreign (Deut. 32. 17.) which setteth out the same things, signifieth, wasters or destroyers, as Revel. 9. 11. Idolaters are said to do such and such things to devils, because they do them by the instigation of devils; and because such services as are not done to the true God, are done to devils: there is no mean betwixt them, 1 Cor. 10. 20, 21. Revel. 9. 20.

the calv…s] See on 1 King. 12. 28.

V. 16. after them] Following the example, v. 13.

V. 17. way of Solomon] Before his apostasie, and after his repentance.

V. 18. Jerimoth] Jerimoth might be Davids son by a concubine, 1 Chron. 3. 9.

Eliab] 1 Sam. 16. 6.

V. 20. Maachah] See on 1 King. 15. 2.

V. 21. wives, &c.] See the difference betwixt wives and concubines, on 1 King. 11. 3.

V. 23. dispersed of all his children] See the Note on v. 11. He might have two ends herein: one, to keep them which yet stood with him from revolt; the other, to keep his children from mutuall contentions and fallings out, Prov. 18. 19. So did Abraham, Gen. 25. 9. and Jehoshaphat, chap. 21. 3.

desired] Heb. asked for.

many wives] Heb. a multitude of wives; Either for himself, o… for his sons.

CHAP. XII.

Vers. 1. ALl Israel] See on 1 King. 14. 22.

V. 2. Shishak] See on 1 King. 14. 25. There the transgressions are expresly set down.

V. 3. Lubims] Lubims were a people which bordered on Egypt; they are oft joyned with the Cushites, as chap. 16. 8. Neh. 3. 9.

Sukkiims] These were so called, because they dwelt in tents. They are also called Troglodites, and said to be wilde men, and to lie in caves.

Ethiopians] Cushites.

V. 4. fenced cities] Such as are mentioned, chap. 11. 11.

came] With his army

V. 5. Sh…maiah] See on 1 King. 12. 22.

gathered together] Having left their horses in other places.

because] Heb. from the face, that is, for fear.

V. 6. princes of Israel] Who …ere of Jeroboams dominion.

humbled themselves] As Ahab, 1 King. 19. 29. See the Notes there.

V. 7. I will not destroy] This hath relation to that utter destruction which was threatned, Deut. 28. 63. and executed, chap. 36. 17, &c. See v. 12.

some] Or, a little whi….

V. 8. they shall be his servants] They shall be forced to yeeld to him, and to accept what conditions he shall put upon them.

my service, and, &c.] What difference there is betwixt serving me and serving enemies, Deut. 28. 47, 48. Isai. 26. 13.

kingdoms of the countreys] Heathenish nations, where is no knowledge nor fear of God.

V. 9. Shishak, &c.] This history is word for word recorded, 1 King. 14. 25, 26, 27, 28.

made] Chap. 9. 15.

V. 12. altogether] Heb. to consumption.

and also in Judah, &c.] Or, and yet in Judah there were good things: For there was the law of God, the seals of his covenant, the ministery of his prophets, priests and Levites, ordinary and extraordinary sacrifices, and many persons that had not conformed to the sins of the kingdom.

V. 13. strengthned himself] By repairing and fortifying the cities of the kingdom, as chap. 11. 11.

Rehoboam] 1 King. 14. 21.

V. 14. he prepared not] He used not his endeavour, but carelesly neglected the law of the LORD, and so fell into all impiety.

prepared] Or, fixed.

V. 15. the acts, &c.] 1 King. 14. 29.

book] Heb. words.

book of Shemaiah] See on Chap. 9. 29.

genealogies] Or, pedigrees and histories of kings and others, famous in the Church of God.

wars, &c.] See on 1 King. 14. 30.

V. 16. slept] See on 1 King. 2. 10.

Abijah] Or, Abijam, 1 King. 14. 31.

CHAP. XIII.

Vers. 1. IN the, &c.] 1 King. 15. 1, &c. See the Notes thereon.

V. 3. set] Heb. bound together.

four hundred thousand] Both armies, being all of the children of Israel, amounted to twelve hundred thousand, and all of them valiant men: had they been as brethren united, they had been the greatest host we read of by expresse number assembled together in the field. See Chap. 14. 9. Indeed there is, in Davids time, mention made of fifteen hundred thousand, and threescore and ten thousand, that drew sword, besides Levi and Benjamin, which were not counted among them (1 Chron. 21. 5, 6.) but these were not all drawn out into the field together. See on chap. 17. 14.

V. 4. stood up, &c.] That he might be the better heard.

Zemaraim] A city of this name was in the tribe of Benjamin, Josh. 18. 22. The city, and mount in it, might both be of the same name, and border on mount Ephraim.

V. 5. gave the kingdom, &c.] See 2 Sam. 7. 12, 13, 16.

covenant of salt] Perpetuall, that perisheth not: for salt makes things last. See Num. 18. 19. See on Gen. 19. 26.

V. 6. rebelled against his lord] 1 King. 11. 26. See the Notes thereon.

V. 7. children of Belial] See on 1 King. 21. 10.

was young] As a childe in discretion, foolish, Eccles 4. 13. and 10. 16. Isai. 3. 4. 1 Cor. 14. 20.

tender-hearted] Easily drawn this way and that way (Eph. 4. 14.) of no courage or magnanimity.

V. 8. ye think] Heb. ye speak.

kingdom of the Lord] Of Judah, which the LORD hath reserved to Davids posterity, 1 King. 11. 13.

with you golden calves] Either they brought with them the golden calves into the camp (as 1 Sam. 4. 5. See on 2 Sam. 11. 11.) or else he upbraideth their idols to them, and their confidence in them.

made you for gods] 1 King. 12. 28.

V. 9. Have ye not cast out, &c.] Chap. 11. 14.

after the manner of the nations] Not after Gods prescript, whereby none but Aarons seed should be priests: but as other nations have no succession of priests, so nor you.

to consecrate] Heb. to fill his hand. See on 1 King. 13. 33.

seven rams] The law required but two rams at the most (Exod. 29. 15, 19.) but idolaters and hypocrites are ready in externall rites to exceed, Num. 23. 1. Mic. 6. 7. Mar. 7. 4.

V. 10. the Lord is our God] In externall profession: for his heart was not upright, 1 King. 15. 3.

V. 11. And they burn, &c.] Chap. 2. 4.

every morning, and every evening] Heb. morning and morning, evening and evening. See on 1 Sam. 3. 3.

shew-bread] Levit. 24. 6.

V. 12. God is with us for our captain] As Josh. 5. 14. God will order and prosper the battell for us.

priests with sounding trumpets] According to the Law, Num. 10. 9. and 31. 6.

V. 13. an ambushment] Some of his souldiers to lie in wait secretly, that they might fall on them unawares, as chap. 20. 22. Josh. 8. 4. Judg. 20. 37.

V. 14. they cried] Both with inward servency for the LORDS help (as 1 King. 22. 32.) and also with outward clamour, to affright the enemy, as 1 Sam. 4. 5. See v. 15.

the priests sounded] To put the LORD in minde of his promise (Num. 10. 9.) and to put courage into the souldiers.

V. 15. smote Jeroboam] Affrighted and overthrew him and his army.

V. 17. five hundred thousand chosen men] Yet there were but four hundred thousand (v. 3.) to execute this slaughter; so as they slew more then every one his man.

V. 19. Beth-el] In this city was one of the golden calves set up, 1 King. 12. 29.

Jeshanah] Not far from Beth-el.

Ephraim] Called Ophrah, Josh. 18. 23. in the tribe of Benjamin.

V. 20. recover strength] Get again another army, to enter upon another battell.

strook him] This implieth, that Jeroboam died by a speciall hand of God, as 1 Sam. 25. 38.

V. 21. waxed mighty] By reason of that great conquest.

fourteen wives] Some of them in his fathers days.

V. 22. story] Or, commentary.

Iddo] Chap. 12. 15.

CHAP. XIIII.

Vers. 1. SLept] See on 1 King. 2. 10.

Asa, &c.] 1 King. 15. 8, &c.

ten yeers] Till the Cushites disquieted them, v. 9.

V. 2. did good] See on 1 King. 15. 11.

V. 3. for he took away the altars] According to the law, Deut. 7. 5.

the high places] See on 1 King. 15. 14.

images] Heb. statues.

V. 5. images] Heb. sun-images.

the kingdom was quiet] This is added, as the fruit of establishing true religion. See v. 7.

V. 6. he built, &c.] See on chap. 11. 6.

V. 7. while the land is yet before us] Quiet under our government, not surprised or disturbed by enemies.

V. 8. targets and spears] All kinde of armour offensive and defensive, as Chap. 11. 12.

drew bowes] See 1 Chron. 12. 2.

V. 9. And there came, &c.] Chap. 16. 8.

Zerah] King of the Cushites.

Ethiopian] Or, Cushite.

a thousand thousand, &c.] This is the greatest number of one army, expressed in sacred Scripture. See on chap. 13. 3.

three hundred chariots] Some here supply a thousand, thus, three hundred thousand chariots, because they are said to be very many chariots and horse-men, chap. 16. 8.

Mareshah] In Judah, Josh. 15. 44.

V. 10. Zephathah] Judg. 1. 17.

at] Or, over against.

V. 11. cryed, &c.] Earnestly prayed, chap. 13. 14. Exod. 14. 15.

nothing with thee, &c.] 1 Sam. 14. 6.

with many, &c.] Or, betwixt the mighty and impotent, as Exod. 14. 20.

in thy Name] With confidence in thine aid, 1 Sam. 17. 45. See on 2 King. 2. 24.

man] Or, mortall man.

against thee] By overcoming thine host, those that fight under thee, in thy cause. See v. 13.

V. 12. Ethiopians] Or, Cushites.

V. 13. Gerar] In the hand of the Philistines, Gen. 20. 1.

Ethiopians] Or, Cushites.

destroyed] Heb. broken.

before his host] See v. 11.

they] Asa and his people.

V. 14. the fear of the Lord] A great terrour from the LORD, Gen. 35. 5. Chap. 17. 10, and 20. 29.

spoiled] Took away the goods that were in the cities.

V. 15. the tents] Those that dwelt in tents, which they might remove from place to place, to finde out good pasture for their cattell. These were the Arabians, who bordered on the Philistines, and might soon aid the Cushites. See 1 Chron. 4. 41.

CHAP. XV.

Vers. 1. OBed] Supposed to be Iddo, mentioned, Chap. 12. 15. and 13. 22. See v. 8. Another Obed is mentioned, Chap. 28. 9.

V. 2. to meet Asa] Heb. before Asa; As he returned from the victory, chap. 14. 31. So chap. 28. 9.

with you] To blesse you, Deut. 20. 1.

le with him] To serve him.

if ye seek him, &c.] Deut. 28. 9.

V. 3. for a long season] Since their revolt, about thirty yeers. Compare chap. 12. 13. and 13. 2. and 14. 1.

Israel] The ten tribes that revolted, 2 King. 12. 16.

without the true God] For they set up idols, in stead of the true God, 1 King. 12. 28. See Judg. 5. 8.

without a teaching priest] See what priests they had, 1. King. 12. 31. and 13. 33.

without law] For they cast out the Levites that should have instructed them in the law, chap. 11. 14.

V. 4. when they, &c.] This is noted as a supposition, thus, if they had turned, &c. as Deut. 4. 29.

V. 5. in th…se times] When Abijah prevailed against Israel, Chap. 13. 17, &c. See on Judg. 5. 6.

of the countreys [Of these countreys, namely, the ten tribes.

V. 6. nation, &c.] Israel vexed Judah in Rehoboams time, and Judah vexed Israel in Abijahs time; besides, forreign enemies might annoy them.

destroyed] Heb. beaten in pieces.

V. 7. Be ye strong] In reforming religion.

let not your hands be weak] Be not fearfull nor negligent, be nor dejected, 2 Sam. 4. 1. Heb. 12. 12.

rewarded] Though not for your desert, yet through Gods grace.

V. 8. Obed] The father and son had both one name (v. 1.) or else some former prophecie of the father is here meant.

abominable idols] Heb. abominations.

cities which he had taken] These might be the cities which his father took (chap. 13. 19.) and he kept: or he himself might take other cities thereabouts.

Before the porch] See on 1 King. 8. 22.

V. 9. the strangers] Such of the ten tribes as were in Judah, were accounted strangers after their revolt: for they forsook the true religion, and served idols, and had other kings, and other laws, chap. 30. 25.

out of Simeon] That part of Simeon which bordered on Israel, revolted with the rest: but that which was within Judah, held with the house of David. See on chap. 11. 6.

V. 10. the third meneth] This answereth in part to May: it was about the feast of weeks, Deut. 16. 16.

V. 11. the same time] Heb. in that day.

spoil] See chap. 14. 13, 14, 15.

seven hundred oxen] See 1 King. 8. 63.

V. 12. they entred into a covenant] To binde themselves more stedfastly to a due serving of God. See on 2 King. 11. 14.

V. 13. would not seek the Lord] Would not enter into this covenant, or, having entred into it, should fall from it.

should be put to death] Deut. 13. 9. This was an evidence of great zeal.

whether small, &c.] In the cause of him who respecteth no persons (Deut. 10. 17.) there must be no respect of persons.

V. 14. they sware] To make the covenant more inviolable on their parts; for an oath is a curb to conscience.

a loud voice, &c.] These were expressions of cheerfulnesse and ioyfulnesse in what they did, v. 15. 2 Sam. 6. 15. Ezr. 3. 11.

V. 15. he was found] Granted their desires, and prospered their endeavours.

rest] Peace, v. 19.

V. 16. Maachah] See on 1 King. 15. 10, 13, 14, 15.

idol] Heb. horrour. See on chap. 11. 15.

V. 17. Israel] That part of Israel which was called Judah. So chap. 12. 1.

V. 19. there was no more war] Or, there had been no war.

war] Betwixt Israel and Judah in Asa his time, till this yeer; for this hath relation to chap. 16. 1.

the five and thirtieth] From the division betwixt Israel and Judah; so as this is to be taken of the fifteenth yeer of Asa his reign: for Rehoboam reigned seventeen yeers (Chap. 12. 13.) Abijah three (Chap. 13. 2.) to which fifteen of Asa his reign being added, the thirty five yeers are made up. See on Chap. 16. 1.

CHAP. XVI.

Vers. 1. IN the six and thirtieth] This must needs have beginning before Asa his reign, because Baasha died in the seven and twentieth yeer thereof, 1 King. 15. 33. See on chap. 15. 19.

Baasha] This history was before recorded in 1 King. 15. 17, &c. See the Notes there.

V. 2. Damasous] Heb. Da…mesek.

V. 4. his] Heb. which were his.

V. 7. Hanani] Father of the prophet Jehu, 1 King. 16. 1.

seer] See on 1 King. 17. 13.

escaped] So gone, as in future distresse he shall afford thee no help. After this Baasha annoyed Asa, v. 9. 1 King. 15. 32. the Syrians were such enemies of Israel and Judah, as it had better to have stood out at distance against them, then to have sought their friendship: for this therefore is Asa justly reproved.

the Ethiopians] Or, Cushites. Chap. 14. 9.

a huge host] Heb. in abundance.

V. 9. the eyes, &c.] The providence of God in all countreys and places, taketh speciall notice of the very disposition of people, Prov. 15. 3.

to shew himself strong in the behalf of them] Or, strongly to hold with them. Against all their enemies, and for their protection.

perfect] See on 1 King. 8. 61.

henceforth thou shalt have wars] See on v. 7.

V. 10. wroth] Chap. 26. 19.

prison-house] A place where malefactors were held fast, as in stocks. Thus this Hebrew word is translated, Jer. 20. 1, 2. and 29. 26. Prophets are dealt with, as with notorious malefactors.

oppressed] Heb. crushed, or trampled upon. As Asa was impious against God, so unjust and injurious to men. A great fall.

V. 11. first and last] Both good (as the first were) and bad, as the last, chap. 9. 29.

in the book, &c.] Briefly in sacred Scripture (as 1 King. 15. 9, &c.) and largely in civill …hronicles.

V. 12. in his feet] With the gout, as is probable.

his disease was, &c.] Or, came up: namely, thorow his whole body to his head and heart.

he sought not] Neither by his own penitent prayer, nor by a prophet. See on 1 Chron. 10. 14.

to the physitians] As in war (v. 7.) so in sicknesse he places all his confidence on man.

V. 14. own sepulchres] See on 2 King. 22. 20.

made] Heb. digged.

city of David] See on 1 King. 2. 10.

was filled, &c.] Or, he filled. So as either he prepared this for himself in his life-time, or one that he left in trust did it: or the word may be taken impersonally.

with sweet odours] With such as are used in embalming dead corpses, Gen. 50. 2.

a very great burning] Of sweet and fragrant things, which was counted an honourable solemnity. This was denied to wicked Jehoram (chap. 21. 19.) but afforded to Zedekiah (Jer. 34. 15.) though he died in a strange land: for he was their last king.

CHAP. XVII.

Vers. 1. JEhoshaphat] 1 King. 15. 24.

strengthened] By preparing all manner of warlike provision.

V. 2. forces] V 19.

cities of Ephraim] See on chap. 15. 8.

V. 3. in the first wayes of his …er David] Or, in the wayes of David, and in the first wayes o… f…her. If the word, father, be referred to David, their Davids adultery, murther, numbring the people, and other such sins as …re here registred of his later dayes, are excepte….

sought not] No way tolerated.

Baalim] Any manner of idols.

V. 4. Israel] Who worshipped the golden calves, 1 King. 12. 28, &c.

V. 5. brought] Heb. gave.

presents] In testimony of their gratefull, cheerfull and joyfull subjection to him. See the contrary, 1 Sam. 10. 27. See v. 11.

V. 6. his heart was lift up] That is, was encouraged. He accounted it his highest honour: That is, was couragion.

he took away] Which his father had lest, 1 King. 15. 14.

high places] See on 1 King. 3. 4.

V. 7. to teach] To cause the people to be instructed.

V. 8. Levites] Levites were to read and expound the law, Neh. 8. 7.

Elishama, &c.] Priests to resolve doubts, and decide controversies, Deut. 17. 8, 9. Mal. 2. 7.

book of the law] That they might thereby demonstrate the truth of what they taught.

V. 10. the fear] See on Chap. 14. 14.

fell] Heb. was.

V. 11. Philistines brought] In desire of his friendship, and in testimony of their homage. See v. 5.

V. 12. great, &c.] In riches and honour, v. 5. in power, v. 13, &c. in name and esteem, v. 5, 11.

castles] Or, palaces.

V. 13. he had much businesse] He took great care himself, and set others on work about such things as might be fit for a kingdom in times of peace and war.

V. 14. numbers] Eleven hundred and threescore thousand. See on chap. 13. 3.

Of Judah, the captains of thousands] Or, In Judah, of the captains of thousands, Adnah the chief.

V. 15. next to him] Heb. at his hand.

V. 16. unto the Lord] To fight the battels of the LORD.

V. 17. with bowe] See on 1 Chron. 12. 2.

V. 19. waited on the king] Were ready, upon the kings command, to be sent forth upon any occasion.

those, &c.] These were the forces mentioned, v. 2. 14.

CHAP. XVIII.

Vers. 1. HAd riches, &c.] Chap. 17. 5. See on chap. 17. 12.

joyned affinity] Jehoshaphats son married Ahabs daughter, 2 King. 8. 18.

V. 2. And, &c.] 1 King. 22. 2, &c. See the Notes there; for this history is there set down almost word for word.

after certain yeers] Heb. at the end of yeers.

killed sheep, &c.] To feast them all royally.

V. 5. four hundred men] Or, about four hundred men, 1 King. 22. 6.

V. 6. besides] Heb. yet, or more.

V. 8. officers] Or, eunuchs.

Fetch] Heb. Hasten.

V. 9. void place] Or, floor.

V. 10. they be consumed] Heb. thou consume them.

V. 12. with one assent] Heb. with one mouth.

V. 17. but evil] Or, but for evil.

V. 19. entice] Or, perswade, 1 King. 22. 20. So v. 20. 21.

V. 20. spirit] Job. 1. 6.

V. 24. into an inner chamber] Or, from chamber to chamber.

an inner chamber] Heb. a chamber in a chamber.

V. 30. the captains] His thirty and two captains, 1 King. 22. 31.

V. 32. from pursuing him] Heb. from after him.

V. 33. at a venture] Heb. in his simplicity.

between the joynts of the harnesse] Heb. between the joynts, and between the brest-plate.

wounded] Heb. made sick.

V. 34. about the time of the sun going down] Or, at even, 1 King. 22. 35.

CHAP. XIX.

Vers. 1. IN peace] In regard of his own life, which the LORD had graciously preserved, chap. 18. 31.

V. 2. Jehu, &c.] See on 1 King. 16. 1.

the ungodly] Ahab and Israel (chap. 18. 3.) who were idolaters, 1 King. 12. 28, &c.

love] Make league and friendship. See on Psal. 139. 21.

wrath upon thee] Thou hast deserved wrath. Or, this may have reference to the danger wherein he had been (chap. 18. 31.) and wherein he should yet further be, chap. 20. 2.

V. 3. good things] Chap. 17. 4, 6.

found in thee] Evident to be in thee, Neh. 9. 8.

V. 4. dwelt] Quietly continued.

he went out again] Heb. he returned and went out. As he had done before, chap. 17. 7. Or, repenting of his sin, he brought his people to seek the LORD.

from Beer-sheba] From south to north, from one end of Judah to another. See on 1 King. 19. 3. and on chap. 15. 8, 9.

V. 5. judges] See v. 8, 9.

V. 6. not for man] Not so much in the name and by the authority of man, as, &c.

is with you] Seeth you, to take account of you. See Psal. 82. 1, 2.

in the judgement] Heb. in the matter of judgement.

V. 7. let the fear, &c.] Shew that ye fear God, by dealing justly.

no iniquity with] He no way will do that which is unjust or unequall, but render to every one that which is just and meet.

no respect of persons] Deut. 10. 17. Job 34. 19. Acts 10. 34. Rom. 2. 11. Ephes. 6. 9. Col. 3. 25. 1 P…t. 1. 17.

V. 8. Levites] Levites were to instruct, priests to resolve cases (chap. 17. 8.) chief fathers to execute justice, Deut. 16. 18.

judgement] Causes sacred and civill. See vers. 8. 1 Chron. 26. 32.

when] Heb. and.

they returned] They who were sent abroad, or they who had causes to be judged, as v. 10.

V. 9. perfect] See on 1 King. 8. 61.

V. 10. cities] Other then Jerusalem.

blood and blood] Kindes of murther, whether wilfull or no.

between law] The true sense of the law, in case one take it one way, another another way.

statutes, &c.] See on 1 King. 2. 3.

wrath] Some judgement, an effect of Gods wrath, Num. 16. 46.

upon you] For not warning them, Ezek. 3. 18.

and upon your brethren] For continuing in their sin, ibid.

V. 11. matters of the Lord] Ecclesiasticall, concerning religion.

the kings matters] Civill, concerning peace and justice betwixt man and man, depending on the kings laws.

officers] See on 1 Chron. 26. 29.

before you] Ready at hand to advise or execute.

Deal couragiously] Heb. Take courage and do.

with the good] With such as do well, to blesse them, and the good they do.

CHAP. XX.

Vers. 1. OTher, &c.] Syrians (v. 2) and Edomites of mount Seir, v. 10.

beside the Ammonites] Or, of the Hamennims, a people distinct from the Ammonites.

V. 2. the sea] The south sea, at which was the utmost border of Judah.

Hazazon-tamar] See Gen. 14. 7.

En-gedi] See Josh. 15. 62.

V. 3. set himself] Heb. his face. See 2 King. 12. 17.

to seek the Lord] In generall, to serve God (as chap. 11. 16.) in particular, to make earnest prayer to God, as Isai. 55. 6.

V. 5. in the congregation] In the assembly of the people.

in the house] That part of the temple where the people assembled, and where pious kings used to pray; as Solomon (1 King. 8. 22.) and Hezekiah (2 King. 19. 14.) This is called, the great court (chap. 4. 9.) and the porch. See on 1 King. 6. 3.

new court] The court of the priests. See on 1 King. 8. 64. It is said to be new, because it had been newly repaired. See on chap. 15. 8.

V. 6. art not thou, &c.] These negative interrogations imply very strong affirmations.

V. 7. who] Heb. thou.

inhabitants of this land] Canaanites, Num. 33. 51, 52.

seed] Posterity, Gen. 17. 7.

thy friend] Whom thou didst really favour, and who entirely loved thee, Isai. 41. 6. Jam. 2. 23.

for ever] See on 1 King. 8. 13.

V. 8. a sanctuary] See on 1 Chron. 22. 19.

V. 9. If when, &c.] 1 King. 8. 37. Chap. 6. 28. and 7. 14.

wilt hear] What Solomon prayed for, is here set down as granted, to shew the power of prayer.

V. 10. mount Seir] Edomites, Deut. 2. 6.

wouldest not let Israel invade] Deut. 2. 9.

V. 11. reward us] Return evil for good, Psal. 7. 4.

V. 12. judge them] Revenge or punish, Ezek. 24. 14. This interrogation is a fervent petition, grounded on faith.

no might] Sufficient to withstand this army.

our eyes are upon thee] We expect help from thee. See on 1 King. 1. 20.

V. 13. all Judah] Some from every place thorowout the land of Judah.

before the Lord] In the court before the alter. See v. 5.

their little ones] See Deut. 29. 11. and 31. 12. Jon. 3. 5.

V. 14. came the spirit] On a sudden he was endued with an extraordinary gift of prophecie, as chap. 24. 20. Num. 11. 25, 26.

V. 15. the battell is not yours] Ye shall not need to fight in this battell, God will take the care thereof upon himself. See vers. 17.

V. 16. go ye down] For Jerusalem and the temple were on an hill, chap. 3. 1. Psal. 122. 4.

by the cliff, &c.] Heb. ascent. These places were well known to Jehoshaphat and his people. See v. 20.

brook] Or, valley.

V. 17. not need, &c.] See v. 24.

set your selves] Compose your selves quietly to expect the deliverance which God will provide for you. See Exod. 14. 13.

V. 18. bowed, &c.] See on 1 Chron. 29. 20.

V. 19. children of the Kohathites] Descending from Kohath by Korah. They were singers, 1 Chron. 6. 33.

a loud] Heb. a great: A very high or loud voyce. See on Psal. 120. title. Chap. 15. 14.

V. 20. Tek…a] The cliff of Ziz was betwixt this and Jezreel, v. 16. See on 2 Sam. 14. 2.

Believe, &c.] Isai. 7. 9.

established] Setled in your minde, and kept from fear and doubting.

prosper] Ye shall hear good successe.

V. 21. consulted] See 1 Chron. 13. 1.

that should praise] Heb. praisers.

the beauty] Or, the majestie of holinesse. A description of God.

praise the Lord] See chap. 7. 3.

V. 22. And when they] Heb. And in the time that they, &c.

to sing and to praise] Heb. in singing and praise.

set ambushments] Put such a spirit of spight in them one against another, as they took all the secret advantages that they could to destroy each other. See v. 23. See Judg. 7. 22. 1 Sam. 14. 20.

they were smitten] Or, they smote one another.

V. 23. to destroy another] Heb. for the destruction.

V. 24. the watch-tower] On the cliff of Ziz.

wildernesse] Of Jeruel, v. 16.

none escaped] Heb. there was not an escaping.

V. 25. precious jewels] Heb. things of desires. Much desired and esteemed: as gold-rings, gold-chains, precious stones, jewels, &c. Prov. 3. 15.

they stript] The Israelites took off from the dead corps.

V. 26. in the valley] In the wildernesse of Ieruel, v. 16.

Berachah] That is, blessing.

valley of Berachah] Joel 3. 2, 12.

V. 27. fore-front] Heb. head.

V. 28. p…al…e…es, &c.] Instruments of musick.

V. 29. fear of God] See on chap. 14. 14.

V. 30. quiet] Free from war.

V. 31. And Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah] 1 King. 22. 41, &c. See the notes there.

V. 32. way of Asa] Asa his first course of life. See chap. 16. 11. and 17. 3.

V. 34. book] Heb. words.

who is mentioned in the book of the kings of Israel] 1 Kin. 16. 1.

is mentioned] Heb. was made to ascend.

V. 36. he joyned, &c.] Before he was reproved (chap. 19. 2.) for after that, he refused. See on 1 King 22. 48, 49.

CHAP. XXI.

Verse 1. JEhoshaphat slept with his fathers] 1 King. 22. 50.

slept] See on 1 King. 2. 10.

V. 2. Azariah] Or, Azariahu.

Israel] See on chap. 15. 17. Jehoshaphat coming from David by lineal descent, had a right to the whole kingdom of Israel: but he held onelyonly a part thereof. So as by a synechdoche the whole is put for a part. So v. 4.

V. 3. gav… gifts] Gen. 25. 6.

In ju…ah] And Benjamin, chap. 11. 1, 3.

because he was the first-born] Though his brethren were better then he, v. 13. The LORD gave this priviledge to the firstborn, Gen. 4. 7. Deut. 21. 17.

V. 4. when Jehoram was risen up to the kingdom of his father] 2 King. 8. 16, 17.

Israel] Israel put for Judah, as v. 2.

V. 5. thirty and two, &c.] See on 2 King. 8. 16, 17.

V 6. Ahab to wife] Chap. 22. 2.

V. 7. Howb…it] See on 1 King. 11. 34, 36.

light] Heb. la…p, or candle.

sons for ever] 2 Sam. 7. 12, 13. 2 Kin. 8. 19. Psa. 132. 11, &c.

light] See on 1 King. 11. 36.

dominion] Heb. hand.

V. 9. went forth with his princes] 2 King. 8. 21.

V. 11. high places] See on 1 King. 3. 4.

fornication] Spirituall: that is, idolatry, v. 13. See 2 Kin. 9. 22.

Ju…ah] Not onelyonly the city where he dwelt, but also his whole kingdom.

V. 12. a writing] Which Elijah had written before his assumption, and left behinde him. For it is evident, 2 King. 3. 11. That Elijah was translated in Jehoshaphats time: As the man of God prophesied of Josiah long before his time (1 Kin. 13. 2.) and Isaiah of Cyrus (Isai. 45. 1.) and Daniel of the monarchs (Dan. 7. 1, &c.) so Elijah of J…horam. For he would not endure a living prophet to declare the truth unto him.

V▪ 13. a whoring] See on v. 11.

Ahab] 1 King. 16. 31, 33.

V. 14. a great pla…ue] Heb. a great stroke.

V. 15. grea…nesse sicknesse] Extreme pain.

day by day] For the space of two yeers▪ v. 19.

V. 16. neer] Bordered upon them.

Ethiopians] H…b. Cushites.

V. 17. brake into it] Running thorow the whole land, even into Jerusalem, which they plundered, as the words following shew.

carried away] Heb. carried captive.

his sons also and his wives] Chap. 22. 1, They were slain.

Jehoahaz] Or, Ahaziah, chap. 22. 1. or Azariah, chap. 22. 6. So as he had three names.

V. 18. in his bowels] See v. 19.

V 19. after the end, &c.] All which time he continued in his torturing disease.

no burning] As they had done for other kings, chap. 16. 14.

V. 20. departed] Or, walked, or lived.

without being desired] Heb. without desire. So miserably and ignobly, as he took no content in himself: nor did any other care for him.

not in the sepulchres, &c.] This is added as an evidence of his subjects disesteem of him.

CHAP. XXII.

Vers. 1. AHaziah his youngest son] 2 Kings 8. 24, &c.

eldest] Chap 21. 17.

V. 2. Fourty and two yeers old] Heb. A son of fourty and two yeers. This is here to be taken of the continuance of Omries pedigree. He was great-grand-father to Ahaziah, the son of Athaliah, daughter of Ahab, son of Omri. Omri reigned as sole king, six yeers (1 King. 16. 23.) Ahab two and twenty (1 King. 16. 29.) Ahaziah, his son, two (1 King. 22. 51.) Joram, twelve (2 King. 3. 1.) Thus he began to reign in the two and twentieth yeer of his age (1 King. 8. 26.) and two and fourtieth of that stock, whereof he was the last branch.

Athaliah] Chap. 21. 6.

daughter] Or, grand-childe.

V. 3. He also, &c.] As well as Jehoram his father, chapter 21. 6.

V. 4. to his destruction] By the allurement of the son of Ahab he went out …gainst Jehu, and was slain, v. 7.

V. 5. He walked also, &c.] He did not onelyonly hear, but also, follow their counsell.

Ramoth-gilead] Or, Ramah. See on 1 King. 4. 13.

V. 6. which were given him] Heb. wherewith they woun…ed him.

Azariah] Otherwise called Ahaziah, verse 1. and Jeh…ahaz▪ chap. 21. 17.

V. 7. destruction] Heb. treading down.

was of God] Ordered by the divine providence. See on 1 King. 12. 15.

to cut off the house of Ahab] 2 King. 9. 7.

V. 8. the sons of the bre…hren] See on … King. 10. 13.

ministred to, &c.] Attended on his person, and were speciall officers under him.

V. 9. And he sought Ahaziah] See the notes on 2 Kin. 9. 27.

they buried him] They who slew him, gave his servants leave to bury him.

the house, &c.] The children and kinred of Ahaziah, together with such as took part with him.

V. 10. when Athaliah, &c.] These three last verses are before registred, 2 King. 11. 1, 2, 3. See the notes there.

CHAP. XXIII.

Vers. 1. IN the seventh yeer, &c.] The history of this chapter is recorded in 2 King. 11. 4, &c. See the notes thereon.

V. 2. the chief, &c.] Governours in the common-wealth.

of Israel] See on chap. 21. 2.

V. 3. he said] Jehojadah.

said of the sons of David] 2 Sam. 7. 12. 1 King. 2. 4▪ and 9. 5. chap. 6. 16. and 7. 18.

V. 4. doors] Heb. thresholds.

V. 6. the house, &c.] The middle part of the temple, where the priests and Levites did their holy services.

holy] Heb. b…linesse. For they in speciall were set apart to holy services.

shall keep the watch] Shall stand in the great court, to keep all but priests and Levites from entring into the holy place.

V. 8. dismissed not] Priests and Levites had their courses to serve: which when they had ex…uted, they were ordinarily permitted to go to their houses: but at this time they were not p…rmitted so to do.

V. 10. side] Heb. shoulder.

temple] Heb. house.

V. 11. gave him, &c.] Deut. 17. 18.

the testimony] The book of the law.

God save the king] Heb. Let the king live.

V. 12. praising the king] Rejoycing and praising God for the king.

the h…use, &c.] The peoples court which was counted a part of the temple.

V. 13. at the entring] At the upper end of the court of the people, neer that part of the temple where the priests executed their function.

such as taught, &c.] Musick-masters. They all rejoyced.

Treason] Heb. Conspiracy.

V. 14. brought out] Commanded them to go and take Athaliah.

V. 17. slew Mattan the priest of Baal, &c.] Deut. 13. 9.

V. 18. appointed] Established, o…, caused to be observed.

distributed in the house of the Lord] 1 Chron. 24. 1.

law of Moses] Num. …8. 2.

by David] Heb. by the hands of David. 1 Chron. 26. 1, &c.

CHAP. XXIIII.

Vers. 1. JOash, &c.] The former part of the history of this chapter, from the beginning to verse 15. is before recorded in 2 King. 12. 1, &c.

V. 2. all the dayes of Jehojadah] For Jehjoad…h instructed him (2 King 12. 2.) and he stood in a kinde of aw of him.

V. 3. took for him] This was a fathers part, Gen. 24. 4. & 28. ….

two wives] An evill custome made good men yeeld to it, Matth. 19. 4.

V. 4. to repair] Heb. to renew.

V. 5. all Israel] That were under the king of Judah: See on 1 Chron. 21. ….

from yee… to yeer] As need required.

haste the matter] Lest, by delay, it might prove more out of repair.

hastened it not] See on 2 King. 12 6.

V. 6. the collection] Which was yeerly to be made (v. 5.) especially when need required.

Moses the servant of the Lord] Exod. 30. 12, 13, 14.

and of the, &c.] Or, even of the congregation, &c. As Moses had a collection for the tabernacle, so, in like case, a like course to be taken for the temple.

V. 7. the sonnes of Athaliah that wicked woman, had broken up the house of God] Or, Athaliah, dealing wickedly; her sonnes had broken, &c.

V. 8. at the kings commandment] By Jehojadah's advice, 2 King. 12. 9.

without at the gate, &c.] See on 2 King. 9. 12.

V. 9. a proclamation] Heb. a voice.

to the Lord] To the house of the LORD, for the LORDS service.

that Moses] Such a collection as Moses required for the tabernacle.

V. 10. untill the end] Till the repairing was finished.

V. 11. at what time the chest] See on 1 King. 12. 10.

V. 13. the work was perfected by them] Heb. the healing went up upon the work.

in his state] Wherein it was, before it was broken up, v. 7.

V. 14. they brought] The overseers who had the charge of receiving and disbursing the money.

vessels] Such as are expressed, 1 King. 7. 50. for Athaliah had taken away those which Solomon made.

to offer withall] Or, pestils.

V. 15. full of dayes] See Gen. 35. 29. and the Notes on 1 Chron. 23. 1.

an hundred and thirty yeers old] Heb. a son of an hundred and thirty yeers; which was an extraordinary old age, for those times.

V. 16. Israel] See on chap. 21. 1.

towards God] In restoring his worship.

towards his house] This may be referred to Gods house, which he procured to be repaired: or, to Davids house, or stock, which he preserved from utter destruction.

V. 17. made obeisance] Pretended much service and honour unto him, to move him to yeeld to their idolatrous counsells.

V. 18. wrath] Fearfull effects of Gods wrath, Chap. 19. 2, 10.

V. 19. they testified] The prophets set the peoples sins before them, together with Gods judgements, as v. 20. and called heaven and earth to witnesse against them, Neh. 9. 26.

V. 20. came upon] Heb. clothed, Judg. 6. 34.

above the people] In a place higher then the people, that he might be better heard.

Why transgresse ye, &c.] Both parts of this sentence being joyned in one question, shew that sin and judgement go together.

V. 21. in the court] Between the temple and the altar (Matth. 23. 25.) The altar stood in the court before the temple, so as he, standing on that side the altar which was towards the temple, might be slain in the court betwixt them.

V. 22. when he died] When Zechariah was giving up the ghost.

require it] The blood that is unjustly shed, by vengeance on the shedders thereof, Gen. 9. 5.

V. 23. at the end of the yeer] Heb. in the revolution of the yeer.

all the princes] Who had seduced the king, v. 17.

Damascus] Heb. Darmesek.

V. 24. they executed] It is probable, by that which followeth, that the Syrians sorely wounded Joash, as 2 King. 8. 28.

V. 25. departed] By reason of that great ransome which he gave them, 2 King. 12. 18.

diseases] Maladies, arising from wounds, are called diseases or sicknesses, 1 King. 22. 34. 2 King. 8. 29. 2 Chron. 35. 23.

for the blood, &c.] Whether this were matter that stirred them up to do this act, or no, is uncertain; but most certain it is, that for that cause God so brought it to passe.

sons] Either more sons of Jehojada were murthered, or by a synechdoche the plurall number is put for the singular.

not in the sepulchres] So his grand-father, chap. 21. 24.

V. 26. Zabad] Or, Joz…char, 2 King. 12. 21.

Shim…ith] Or, Shomer.

V. 27. the greatnesse of the burdens] 2 King. 12. 18.

repairing] Heb. founding.

stary, &c.] Or, commentary. The records of their state: for in the canonicall book of the kings there is no mention of his sonnes.

CHAP. XXV.

Vers. 1. AMaziah, &c.] The greatest part of the history of this chapter is before recorded, in 2 Kings 14. 1, &c.

V. 2. with a perfect heart] See the proof hereof, 2 King. 14. 3, 4.

V. 3. established to him] Heb. confirmed upon him.

V. 4. The fathers shall not die for the children, neither, &c.] Deut. 24. 16. 2 King. 14. 6. Jer. 31. 30. Ezek. 18. 20.

V. 5. Judah] The subjects of his kingdom.

made them, &c.] Some choice ones among them.

from twenty, &c.] So it was enjoyned, Num. 1. 18.

V. 6. …ut of Israel] The ten tribes which had revolted from the LORD.

an hundred talents] 2 King. 23. 33. See on 1 Chron. 22. 14. Three hundred seventy and five pound sterling.

V. 7. a man of God] A prophet sent by God. See on 1 King. 13. 1.

the Lord is not with Israel] Because they had forsaken the LORD, 1 King. 12. 28, &c.

all] Or, any of.

Ephraim] Ephraim is put for the ten tribes (Jer. 7. 15.) as Judah for the other two, Hos. 6. 4. for Ephraim was as the firstborn (Gen. 48. 19) and the greatest of the ten, Josh. 17. 14, 17. out of it their first king arose, 1 King. 11. 26.

V. 8. doit] See on 1 King. 22. 15.

V. 9. army] Heb. band.

able to give thee much more then this] … Cor. 9. 8.

V. 10. home again] Heb. to their place.

anger was greatly kindled] 2 Sam. 19. 42.

in great anger] Heb. in heat of ange…. The effect hereof is set down, v. 13.

V. 11. Amaziah] This history of this and the next verse is in 2 King. 14. 7. See the Notes there.

V. 13. the souldiers of the army] Heb. the sons of the band.

sent back] See on v. 10.

from Samaria, &c.] All along the breadth of Judah.

unto Beth-horon] In the tribe of Benjamin. See on 1 King. 9. 17.

V. 14. gods of the children of Seir] Idols of the Edomites.

V. 15. Why hast thou, &c.] By this question he shews that Amaziah should be no more succoured by those gods, then the Edomites were.

V. 16. Art thou of the kings counsell?] He implies, that none should tell him of any thing, but they whom he had appointed to be his counsell.

shouldest thou be smitten?] Heb. should they smite thee? Meaning the kings guard that stood by.

God hath determined to destroy thee] 1 Sam. 2. 25.

determined] Heb. counselled.

V. 17. Amaziah] The following history is in 2 King. 14. 8, 9, &c. See the Notes there.

V. 18. thistle] Or, furre-bush, or thorn.

a wil …e be…st] Heb. a beast of the field.

V. 19. thine heart listeth thee up, &c.] Chap. 26. 16.

V. 20. it came of God] See on 1 King. 12. 15.

V. 22. put to the worse] Heb. smitten.

V. 23. Jehoahaz] Or, Ahaziah. See chap. 22. 6.

the corner-gate] Heb. the gate of it that looketh.

V. 24. Obed-edom] The posterity of Obed-edom, who were keepers of the doors and treasurers of the temple, 1 Chro. 26. 15.

V. 27. from following] Heb. from after.

made a conspiracy] Heb. conspired a conspiracy.

V. 28. Judah] That is, the city of David, as it is, 2 King. 14. 20.

CHAP. XXVI.

Vers. 1. UZziah] 2 King. 14. 21. and 15. 1. Or, Azariah.

in the room &c.] See on 1 King. 14. 21, 22.

V. 2. Eloth] Or, Elath.

V. 3. sixteen yeers old] See on 2 King. 15. 2, 3.

V. 5. he sought God] Heb. he was for seeking God. He was intentive on learning to know Gods will.

sought God] See chap. 11. 16.

had understanding] Or, made him to understand.

in the visions of God] Heb. in the seeing of God. In such things as God had made known: for things revealed are spiritually seen, Joh. 1. 18. Some copies thus read it, in the fear of God; or, in such things as belong to the fear of God.

V. 6. Gath, Jabneh and Ashdod, were all cities of the Philistines. Frequent mention is made of Gath and Ashdod; but of Jabneh, no where else.

about Ashdod] Or, in the countrey of Ashdod.

V. 7. God helped, &c.] Verse 15.

Philistines] The countreys every way bordering about Judah, are here reckoned up; as the Philistines west, the Arabian… south, the Ammonites east.

Mehunims] Or, Hamonims. See chap. 20. 1.

V. 8. gave gifts] See on chap. 17. 11.

spread] Heb. went.

to the entring, &c.] Thorowout all countreys betwixt Judah and Egypt, so as by Gods blessing the heathen feared and honoured him, as 1 Chron. 14. 17.

V. 9. towers] On the city walls, which the king of Israel had demolished, chap. 25. 23. See on 2 King. 14. 13.

the valley-gate] See Neh. 2. 13. and 3. 13, 19, 24.

fortified] Or, repaired, or defended it with garisons.

V. 10. desert] Of Arabia, to prevent such mischief as they did, chap. 21. 16, 17.

digged many wells] Or, cut out many cisterns.

husband-men also] The verb going before is here understood, thus, he had husband-men.

Carmel] Or, fruitfull fields. See on 1 King. 18. 19.

husbandry] Heb. ground.

V. 11. had an h…st, &c.] As Jehoshaphat, chap. 17. 14, 19. These were to be ready on all occasions, to go fo…th, as 1 Chro. 27. 1.

V. 12. two thousand and six hundred] All these were commanders, as may be gathered out of the next verse.

V. 13. an army] Heb. the power of an army.

made war, &c.] Were able to fight.

V. 14. slings to cast stones] Heb. stones of slings. See on 1 Chro. 12. 2.

V. 15. engines invented by cunning men] Heb. inventions by invention of the inventor.

great stones] Here stones were cast by engines, but v. 14, by slings.

spread far] Heb. went forth, v. 8.

he was marvell…usly helped] The LORD wonderfully blessed all his endeavours: or, by the great preparations which he made, he brought much help to himself, v. 7.

str…ng] In his kingdom.

V. 16. his heart was lifted] Chap. 25. 19.

the temple] The holy place, whereinto none but priests and Levites might enter, Num. 18 6, 7.

to burn incense] None but priests might offer incense, Num. 16. 40.

V. 17. the priest] High priest, v. 20.

V. 18. appertaineth not] Num. 18. 7.

priests the s…n… of Aar…n] Exod. 30. 7.

the sanctuary] That which is called the temple, v. 16.

honour] This is spoken in opposition to his high thoughts.

from the Lord] Who resisteth the proud, Jam. 4. 6.

V. 19. was wroth] Scorning to be checkt, as chap. 16. 10.

the leprosie] The sudden rising of the leprosie, shews that it was a judgement from the LORD, as Num. 12. 10. The earth-quake mentioned, Am. 1. 1. Zech. 14. 5, is supposed to be at this time.

from beside the incense-altar] This being referred to the judgement, implieth that some visible evidence of Gods wrath appeared at the altar.

V. 20. hasted] As Esth. 6. 12. for he was confounded in himself, as Haman was.

V. 21. Ʋzziah, &c.] Of these three last verses, see on 2 King. 15. 5, &c.

severall] Levit. 13. 46. Heb. free.

V. 22. did Isaiah] Isaiah might be a pen-man of part of the second book of Kings: or, this phrase may have reference to sundry passages in the prophecie of Isaiah, which concern Uzziah.

V. 23. which belonged to the kings] It was the inheritance of the kings, but not their ordinary place of buriall.

CHAP. XXVII.

Vers. 1. JOtham, &c.] Jotham's history is recorded, 2 King. 15. 32. See the Notes there.

V. 2. corruptly] By sacrificing in the high places, 2 King. 15. 33.

V. 3. Ophel] Or, the tower See on 2 King. 5. 24.

V. 4. in the mountains] In places not inhabited, to bring thither inhabitants, for the better defence of his kingdom.

V. 5. gave him] As a tax laid upon them.

an hundred talents of silver] See Chap. 25. 6.

So] Heb. This.

V. 6. prepared] Or, established.

CHAP. XXVIII.

Vers. 1. AHaz] The history of Ahaz is also recorded, 2 King. 16. 2, &c.

V. 2. Baalim] See on 1 King. 16. 31. and 18. 18.

V. 3. burnt incense] Or, offered sacrifices. See on 2 King. …6. 32.

his children in the fire] Levit. 18. 21.

V. 4. high places] See on 1 King. 3. 4.

V. 5. king of Syria] Rezin. 2 King. 16. 5.

they] Rezins army.

Damascus] Heb. Darmesek.

a great slaughter] This hath reference to the history following.

V. 6. Pekah] 2 King. 16. 5.

valiant men] Heb. sons of valour.

V. 7. the kings son] Ahaz the king of Judah his son.

next to the king] Heb. the second to the king.

V. 8. their brethren] Men of Judah, who came from the same stock that the men of Israel did, and believed in the same God. See v. 10.

V. 9. Obed] See chap. 15. 1.

reacheth up to heaven] This is an hyperbolicall speech; it implieth the uttermost extremity of a thing; for heaven is the highest part of the world, Gen. 11. 4. Deut. 9. 1. Ezr. 9. 6.

V. 10. are there not with you] Are not ye conscious to your selves of such sins as may provoke God to inflict a like judgement on you?

V. 11. brethren] Vers. 8.

is upon you] Or, will fall on you, if ye adde such cruelty to the heap of your other sins.

V. 12. against them] Against the souldiers that brought the captives, to keep them from going further.

V. 13. hither] Into Samaria.

there is fierce wrath] We have cause to fear that some heavie judgement hangeth over our head.

V. 15. by name] Verse 12.

anointed] To refresh them that were weary, according to the custom of those places▪ or for their wounds, Luke 10. 34.

all the feeble] By reason of tendernesse, age, travell, wounds, sicknesse, or the like.

to Jericho] At the borders of Judah.

the city of palm-trees] Deut. 34. 3.

their brethren] The people of Judah.

V. 16. the kings of Assyria] Tiglath-pileser (2 Kings 16. 9.) and the other kings under him. Or, by a synechodoche, the plurall number is put for the singular, as Matth. 27. 44. See on chap. 32. 4.

V. 17. again] Or, also the Edomites, as well as the Israelites.

captives] Heb. a captivity.

V. 18. low-countrey] Where the pastures and cattell were.

Beth-shemesh] See on 2 King. 14. 11.

Ajalon] See 1 Chron. 6. 69. 2 Chron. 11. 10.

Gederoth] See Josh. 15. 41.

Shocho] See 1 Sam. 17. 1.

Timnah] See Josh. 15. 10, 57.

V. 19. Israel] See on chap. 21. 2.

naked] Destitute of all divine favour and succour, as Exod. 32. 25. Or, he withdrew in Judah the worship of God; or, drew Jvdah from the worship of God, Exod. 5. 4.

and he transgressed sore] Or, even by transg…essing, he transgressed.

V. 20. Tilgath-pilneser] See on 2 King. 16. 10.

V. 22. this is that king Ahaz] Isai. 1. 5. Of all men, this man is to be marked for an obstinate sinner, who was no whit wrought upon by afflictions, but even under judgements continued to sin, and thereby shewed an irreclaimable disposition. Or, he was still the same. Thus this word is used, Psalm 102. 27.

V. 23. he sacrificed] See on 2 King. 16. 12.

Damascus] Heb. Darmesek.

which smote him] This may have reference to the gods which in his opinion smote him, or to the people of Damascus, v. 5. His folly was not much unlike his great grand-fathers, chap. 25. 14.

help them] So Judg. 16. 23. Hab. 1. 11.

V. 24. gathered] To give to the king of Assyria, v. 21. 2 King. 16. 8, 17.

every corner] Where ways met, as Matth. 6. 5.

V. 25. to burn] Or, to offer.

V. 27. the city] See 2 King. 16. 20.

CHAP. XXIX.

Vers. 1. BEgan to reign] See the Notes on 2 King. 18. 1.

Abijah] Or, Abi, 2 King. 18. 2.

V. 3. first yeer] And first day of the monethmonth, v. 17. Thus he begins with religion. A worthy patern.

opened the doors, &c.] For Ahaz had shut them up, chap. 28. 24.

repaired them] Heb. strengthened them. This may have reference to the doors; or, by a synechdoche, to all the parts of the temple which had doors; or to the priests mentioned in the next verse.

V. 4. cast-street] Which was before the great door or entrance into the temple.

V. 5. Levites] He compriseth priests also, who descended from Levi.

sanctifie] See on 1 Chron. 15. 12, 14.

sanctifie the house] Cleanse, as the words following shew▪ See Levit. 8. 10, &c.

the filthinesse] Idols, and the things which idolaters used in their services, or were brought in to pollute the true worship of God.

the holy place] See on 1 King. 8. 10.

V. 6. our fathers] Mine and your fathers, and other predecessours.

turned away their faces] Elegant expressions of a scornfull disposition, Jer. 2. 27. Ezek. 8. 16.

turned their backs] Heb. given the neck. See on 2 Kings 17. 14.

V. 7. they have shut] Chap. 28. 24.

put out the lamps] All these followed upon shutting up the doors.

V. 8. delivered them to trouble] Heb. commotion. See this threatned, 1 King. 9. 8.

V. 9. our fathers, &c.] All sorts and degrees of men and women.

are] Or, were, chap. 28. 14.

V. 10. it is in mine heart] See 1 King. 8. 17.

a covenant] See on 2 King. 11. 4.

V. 11. My sons] This is a title of his affection to them, and of their subjection to him.

be not now negligent] Or, be not now deceived.

chosen you] Num. 8. 14. and 18. 2, 6. Deut. 10. 3.

burn incense] Or, offer sacrifice.

V. 15. their brethren] Other Levites, v. 34,

sanctified themselves] See v. 5.

by the words of the Lord] Or, in the businesse of the Lord. Or, being moved thereunto by the word of the LORD, or, by inward inspiration.

V. 16. the inner part, &c.] The middle part, where the priests used to do their s…rvices. See on 1 King. 6. 36.

the brook Kidron] See 1 King. 2. 37.

V. 17. first] Verse 3. See on 1 King. 6. 1.

in eight days] Herein they shew their obedience to the kings charge. v. 11.

they made an end] They cleansed the courts also; yea, every thing that appertained to the house of the LORD, v. 18, 19.

V. 18. the vessels] See of these vessels, 1 King. 7. 48, &c.

V. 19. did cast away] Either by using them in his idolatrous services, or by putting them to no use at all. See chap. 28. 24.

V. 20. rose early] This phrase implieth forwardnesse, diligence and speed in a businesse, Exod. 24. 4. Jer. 7. 13.

V. 21. seven] See on 1 Chron. 15. 26.

bullocks, &c.] All the sorts of clean beasts.

sin-offering] Levit. 4. 14.

for the kingdom] For such as had the rule of the kingdom.

for the sanctuary] The temple, and such holy things as appertained thereto, and had been polluted, chap. 28. 24.

for Judah] The common people.

V. 22. sprinkled] Levit. 8. 14, 15. Heb. 9. 21.

V. 23. they brought] The priests.

forth] Heb. neer.

they laid their hands] The king and elders, or people, Levit. 4. 15. The hands of the officers were laid on the head of the beast offered, in testimony of their own guiltinesse, and that the beast was sacrificed for them, Levit. 1. 4.

V. 24. all Israel] King, priests, governours and people, styled Judah, v. 21.

V. 25. And he set the Levites] 1 Chron. 16. 4. and 25. 6.

Gad and Nathan] See on 1 Chron. 21. 9. and 29. 29.

of the Lord] Heb. by the hand of the Lord.

by] Heb. by the hand of.

V. 26. instruments of David] Such musicall instruments as David, by Gods Spirit, had appointed, 1 Chron. 23. 5.

priests with the trumpets] Num. 10. 8. 1 Chron. 15. 24. and 16. 6.

V. 27. when] Heb. in the time.

song of the Lord] See chap. 7. 3.

instruments] Heb. hands of instruments.

V. 28. worshipped] Or, praised God.

singers] Heb. song.

V. 29. they had made an end] V. 23.

all that were, &c.] Chap. 35. 17.

present] Heb. found.

bowed, &c.] See 1 Chron. 29. 20.

V. 30. Asaph] See the title of Psalm 50.

V. 31. consecrated your selves] Or, filled your hands. See on 1 King. 13. 33.

sacrifices] Expiatory for sin.

thank-offerings] Gratulatory offerings for praise.

burnt-offerings] Such as were all burnt upon the altar, Lev. 1. 9.

V. 32. threescore and ten, &c.] See on 1 King. 8. 63.

V. 33. consecrated things] Other voluntary offerings, which many had by vow consecrated to the LORD: or, sacrifices, which were now consecrated, but reserved to be offered up afterwards.

V. 34. priests were too few] For some delayed to come, and others, to use the rites of consecration.

slay, &c.] To slay, flay, cut in pieces, and lay beasts on the altar, were works proper to priests, Levit. 1. 6.

brethren] Who were of the same stock, and of a like function, v. 15.

did help them] Heb. strengthned them, In this case of necessity, 1 Sam. 21. 6.

upright] Hearty, zealous, forward to the work.

V. 35. And also] Another reason why the Levites helped the priests, because the sacrifices of all sorts were very many.

fat] Which was every where to be pulled off and burnt (Exo. 29. 13.) so as it caus…d much work.

drink-offerings] Num. 15. 5, 7, 10.

set in order] Or, prepared, or accomplished.

V. 36. had prepared] Had put such grace and zeal into their hearts, as made them speedily accomplish that great work.

CHAP. XXX.

Vers. 1. ALl Israel] So many among the ten tribes as Tiglath-pileser had left, 2 King. 15. 29.

Ephraim and Manasseh] These, being the two chiefest of the ten tribes, are put for all the rest, v. 5.

passeover] This was one of their sacraments, and seals of Gods covenant, 1 Cor. 5. 7.

V. 2. second monethmonth] By the law it was appointed to be kept in the first monethmonth (Exod. 12. 2, 3.) but, in case of necessity, it might be kept in the second.

monethmonth] Num. 9. 10, 11.

V. 3. because the priests] These two reasons are alleadged, where the dispensation is granted, Num. 91. 0.

V. 4. the thing] Or, this thing, namely, that it should be put off to the second monethmonth.

pleased the king] Heb. was right in the eyes of the king.

V. 5. from …eer-sheba] From south to north. See 1 King. 4. 25. and 12. 29. and 19. 3. Judg. 20. 1.

as it is written] According to the prescript form in the law.

V. 6. from] Heb. from the hand.

according to the commandment] The commandment hath reference to the messengers: they of Israel were invited and intreated.

…urn again] By true repentance, Ezek. 33. 11.

he will return] In grace and mercy, Psal. …0. 13. Zec. 1. 3.

that are escaped] That remain in the land after it was subdued by the Assyrians, who carried away captive other inhabitants thereof.

V. 7. like your fathers] Such obstinate persons as they were, Zech. 1. 4.

as ye see] Chap. 29. 8.

V. 8. be ye not stiff-necked] Heb. harden not your necks.

stiff-necked] Chap. 36. 13. Exod. 32. 9.

yeeld your selves] Heb. give the hand, 1 Chron. 29. 24.

enter into his sanctuary] Observe his holy ordinances.

V. 9. if ye turn, &c.] So much is promised, chap. 7. 14. Thus others may partake of the true penitency of some, Josh. 6. 23.

compassion] Psal. 106. 46.

graci…us and mercifull] Exod. 34. 6.

V. 10. the posts passed] The messengers made all the speed they could.

Ephraim] See v. 1.

unto Zebulun] Which was by the sea side, Gen. 49. 13.

they laughed] Most of them. See the next verse.

V. 11. humbled themselves] Upon sight and sense of their sinnes.

V. 12. the hand of God] The powerfull work of his Spirit.

to give them one heart] To make them consent and agree in doing.

by the word, &c.] Which was according to Gods word, in celebrating the passeover, Exod. 12. 17, 24.

V. 13. a very great congregation] Heb. to a very great multitude.

V. 14. they arose] See chap. 29. 20.

altars that, &c.] Chap. 28. 24, 25.

brook Kidron] Chap. 29. 16.

V. 15. the passeover] The paschall lamb, v. 5. Chap. 35. 11, 13. Exod. 12 21.

ashamed] Of their former backwardnesse, chap. 29. 34. The more, because they observed the forwardnesse of Levites and common people.

V. 16. their place] Heb. their standing.

according to the law] Num. 18. 6, 7, 8.

the priests sprinkled] Levit. 1. 5.

V. 17. many, &c.] Fathers of families (Exod. 12. 3.) or priests, chap. 29. 34.

killing of the passeovers] V. 15.

V. 18. not cleansed] Had not prepared themselves to such a solemne ordinance, by using the rites of the law prescribed, to take away their legall uncleannesse, Num. 19. 20.

V. 19. prepareth, &c.] That in truth of heart desireth to serve God, though through ignorance or negligence he fail in externall rites.

purification, &c.] Such rites of cleansing as are prescribed to such as come to Gods holy place.

V. 20. healed, &c.] He forgave their sinne, and inwardly by his spirit sanctified them. Or, took away some judgement that he had inflicted on them. Or, accepted them as cleansed.

V. 21. present] Heb. found, Chap. 29. 29.

l…ud instruments] Heb. instruments of strength. Or, whereby the power of the LORD was sounded forth.

V. 22. comfortably unto all] Heb. to the heart of all, Gen. 34. 3. Isa. 40. 2. Hos. 2. 14.

good knowledge] Such things as made men understand the good will of God, Rom. 12. 2.

eat, &c.] Eat together the offerings.

V. 23. other seven] Because they observed people still to flock together more and more.

V. 24. did give] Heb. lifted up, or, offered. Or, reserved.

did give, &c.] That they might have to offer. Or, that they might be offered for them. Or, that they might eat thereof.

a thousand, &c.] See on 1 King. 8. 63.

a great number] Heb. to a multitude; that they might be enough for the multitude of sacrifices. See vers. 15.

V. 25. all the congregation] Who are mentioned, vers. 11. 18.

strangers] Who were of other nations, but circumcised upon their profession to be of the Jews religion. See Exod. 12. 48.

V. 26. time of Solomon] Since the division of the ten tribes from Judah. Because Solomon was the last king of all the tribes united, … is by name mentioned.

V. 27. the priests] The priests which were of the stock of Levi: not such as Jeroboam made. See chap. 13. 9.

arose] See chap. 29. 20.

blessed, &c.] According to the divine institution, Numb. 6. 23.

his holy dwelling place] Heb. the habitation of his holinesse, Psal. 68. 5.

CHAP. XXXI.

Verse 1. ALL this &c.] The solemnity of the Passeover before mentioned.

present] Heb. found. Chap. 30. 21.

brake the imag…s, &c. 2 King. 18. 4.

images] Heb. statues. Chap. 14. 3.

Ephraim, &c.] Such cities therein as the Kings of Judah had formerly taken from Israel. Chap. 13. 19. and 15. 8. And such as of their own accord joyned themselves to Judah.

untill they had utterly destroyed] Heb. untill to make an end.

all] That came to the Passeover. Chap. 30. 11.

V. 2. courses, &c.] Which David had ordained, 1 Chron. 23. 6. and 24. 1.

Levites] To be helpfull to the Priests, Numb. 8. 19.

tents of the Lord] The Temple, to which they assembled as souldiers to their tents. Or, in allusion to the former house of God, which was a tent, or tabernacle, Exod. 35. 11. The plurall number is used, in regard of the severall courts of the Temple.

V. 3. the Kings portion] Because the treasures of the Temple (… Chron. 26. 26.) were exhausted by Ahaz (1 Chron. 28. 21, 24.) the King of his own substance gave for the services of the Temple, See 1 Chron. 29. 3.

bur…t-offerings] Of all these, See Numb. 28. and 29.

V. 4. the people that dwelt, &c.] Who because they dwelt in the city, might think themselves priviledged and exempted. Or, all that belonged to the kingdom of Judah might be here m…ant: as Samaria is put for the kingdom of …srael, 1 King. 18. 2.

the …o…tion &c.] First-born of living things, first-fruits, t…nths …nd sundry oblations: whereof, See Numb. 18. 8. &c.

encourag…d in the law] To study and teach the law, and to attend and execute the services thereof.

V. 5. came abroad] Heb. brake forth.

brought] Heb. multiplied.

honey] Or, Dates.

V. 6. cities of Judah] Which were here and there in the countrey. For these cities are distinguished from Jerusalem, vers. 4.

tithe of holy things,] Levit. 27. 30. Deut. 14. 28.

by heaps] Heb. heaps, heaps, Judg. 15. 16.

V. 7. third monethmonth] See Chap. 15. 10. From Harvest to Autumn, or the Fall, when fruit was gathered, Exod. 23. 16.

V. 8. blessed the LORD and his people Israel.] Gen. 14. 19, 20. 1 Sam. 25. 22, 23.

V. 10. chief priest] See 2 King. 25. 18.

Z…dok] Who was set in the room of Abiathar, 1 King. 2. 35.

have l…t plenty:] For future relief of our selves, families, all sorts of Levites▪ poor widows, orphans, strangers and others in need.

blessed] Afforded plentifull crops. Psal. 3. 8.

which is left,] The remainder over and above that which we have eaten.

V. 11. chambers] Or, store-houses. See on 1 King. 6. 5.

V. 12. dedicate] Such things as being voluntarily given, were consecrated to the LORD.

faithfully:] Heb. in truth. Or, with faithfulnesse.

ruler] chief treasurer. See 1 Chron. 26. 20.

next] Heb. second: next under the chief.

V. 13. overs…rs] To have a care of such things as were brought into the Temple.

under the hand] Heb. at the …and: to give accompt to them.

ruler] In that he was the chief Priest, vers. 10.

V. 14. the east] See on 2 King. 11. 6.

free-will offerings] See v. 6.

most holy thing… ] Heb. sanctities of sanctities.

V. 15. next him] Heb. at his hand.

cities of the priests] Wherein they and their families dwelt, Josh. 21. 9, &c.

set offices] Men in trust: or, such as are put in trust, and found trusty or faithfull, v. 18.

their brethren] All sorts of Levites. See Deut. 19. 8.

V. 16. Beside, &c.] The first words of this verse being included in a parenthesis, thes words, unto every one, &c. fitly depend on the former verse, thus, to give (beside the males of their stock from three ye…rs old and upward) to every one that did service; that is, to all the priests and Levites of age, and to their sons also: for the young ones were to be trained up to the services thereof, and therefore to be maintained thereby.

daily portion] See on 1 King, 8. 59.

V. 18. all the congregation] Of the priests and Levites.

set office] Or, trust, v. 15.

they sanctified] They having sanctified themselves in their distinct offices for the holy things of the temple whereupon they attended, their wives and children were provided for: or by reason of the faithfulnesse of such as were sanctified thereto, wives and children of priests and Levites were provided for. V. 19. Also of the sons] Or, to the sons, &c.] This verse, as well as the three former, depends on this verb, to give, v. 15.

in every severall city] Heb. in every city, city.

CHAP. XXXII.

Vers. 1. AFter these things, &c.] 2 King. 18. 13, &c. Isa. 36. 1, &c. After that Hezekiah had well setled such things as appertained to the true worship of God, in the fourteenth yeer of his reign.

to win them f…r himself] Heb. to break them up.

V. 2. he was purposed to fight] Heb. his f…ce was to war.

V. 3. to stop, &c.] So as no water could flow without for the enemies use, v. 4. but yet it was conveyed into the city by waterpipes under the ground. See Isai. 22. 9, 11. See also 2 King. 20. 20.

V. 4. ran] Heb. over-flowed.

kings] Sennacherib, and such kings as took part with him (1 King. 20. 1.) Or, his princes might be accounted kings, Isa. 10. 8. See on chap. 28. 16.

V. 5. broken] See chap. 25. 23.

another wall] Of the two walls, see 2 King. 25. 23.

Millo] 1 King. 9. 15.

darts] Or, swords, or weapons, chap. 26. 14.

V. 6. in the street] Which was within the city.

spake comfortably to them] Heb. sp…ke to their heart, Chap. 30. 22.

V. 7. m… with us, then with him] 1 King. 6. 16.

V. 8. arm of flesh] Jer. 17. 5. Isai. 31. 1, 2. Humane, weak, mortall power.

rested] Heb. lea…ed; that is, by Hezekiah's exhortation were moved so to believe in God, as they were not afraid.

V. 9. After this &c.] 2 King. 18. 17.

power] Heb. dominion.

V. 10. Whereon do ye trust] First, he supposeth that they had none in whom they might conside.

in the si…ge] Or, in the strong hold, which was not yet besieged.

V. 11. Doth not Hezekiah] Secondly, he taketh it for grant, that the LORD could not deliver them, but that they must needs perish, if they yeeld not to him.

V. 12. Hath not the same, &c.] Thirdly, he perverteth Hezekiah's pious reformation of religion, and impeacheth it of profanenesse.

V. 13. Know ye not] Fourthly, he seeketh to terrifie them by his own and predecessors former victories.

V. 14. Who was there] Fifthly, he blasphemously ranketh the LORD with false gods, and maketh him no better then they, vers. 19.

V. 15. Now therefore] Out of all these premisses, he fondly moveth the people to yeeld to him.

V. 16. his servants] They were twice sent to Hezekiah, 2 Kin. 18. 17. and 19. 9.

V. 17. wrote also letters to rail on the Lord God of Israel] 2 King. 19. 14.

V. 18. they cryed] Rabshakeh and other messengers with him, 2 King 18. 28.

V. 19. as against the gods] 2 Kings 18. 30, 31. see on v. 14.

V. 20. Hezekiah] See of Hezekiahs prayer, 2 King. 19. 15, &c.

the prophet, &c.] Prophets did use to pray for the accomplishment of such things, as by divine revelation they knew should be accomplished, 1 King. 18. 41, 42. Dan. 9. 2, 3.

V. 21. And the Lord sent an angel which cut off all the mighty men of valour] 2 Kings 19. 35, &c.

they that come forth] Or, some of them that came out.

slew him] Heb. made him fall.

V. 22. guided them] As a shepherd his sheep, ruling, protecting, providing, and every way taking care for them.

V. 23. many brought gifts] This may be applied to Hezekiahs subjects, or to some of the ten tribes, who by Gods goodnesse shewed to Hezekiah, were moved to bring offerings to God.

presents] Heb. precious things. See on chap. 17. 5, 11.

V. 24. In those dayes Hezekiah was sick to the death] 2 King. 20. 1. Isai. 38. 1.

gave him a signe] Or, wrought a miracle for him, 2 Kings 20. 9.

V. 25. rendred not] Was not so carefull to please God, as God was to pleasure him.

and upon Judah and Jerusalem] 2 Sam. 24. 1.

V. 26. humbled himself] Being put in minde of Gods anger, 2 King. 20. 17.

the pride] Heb. the lifting up.

for the pride of his heart] Being puffed up by reason of the destruction of his enemies (v. 21.) his own recovery (v. 24.) and his rich treasure, which too too boastingly he shewed to the men of Babel, 2 King. 20. 13.

V. 27. pleasant jewels] Heb. instruments of desire.

V. 29. substance] Even the things of this life are given of God, 1 Chron. 29. 12.

V. 30. stopped, &c.] See v. 3.

Gi…on] See 1 King. 1. 33. Isai. 7. 5.

V. 31. embassadours] Heb. interpreters.

sent unto him to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land] 2 King. 20. 12. Isai. 39. 1.

that he might know] Or, to know, or, that it might be known: that Hezekiah himself, and others might discern humane frailty in the best.

V. 32. goodnesse] Heb. kindenesses. Which he shewed to Gods people, and that especially in reforming religion, chap. 28. and 29. and 30.

in the vision of Isaiah] In the prophecie of Isaiah, which by vision, revelation, and otherwise was made known to him. Reference is here had to Isai. 36. and 37. and 38. and 39.

V. 33. chiefest] Or, highest.

CHAP. XXXIII.

Vers. 1. MAnasseh, &c.] The ten first verses of this chapter are recorded in 2 King. 21. 1, &c.

V. 2. abominations of the heathen] Deut. 18. 9.

V. 3. he built] Heb. he returned and built.

broken down] 2 King. 18. 4.

V. 4. In Jerusalem shall my name be for ever] Deut. 12. 11. 1 King. 8. 29. and 9. 3. chap. 6. 6. and 7. 16.

V. 6. in the valley of, &c.] See on 2 King. 16. 3.

V. 7. this house] Psal. 132. 14.

V. 8. Neither will I any more remove the foot of Israel from out of the land which I have appointed for your fathers] 2 Sam. 7. 10.

V. 11. of the king] Heb. which were the kings.

Assyria] Nehe. 9. 32.

among the thorns] See on 2 King. 20. 17. Deut. 28. 36. Where he had hid himself, as 1 Sam. 13. 6.

fetters] Or, chains] As Jere. 39. 7.

V. 12. when he was in affliction] What Gods word did not (v. 10.) his rod did: he heard it. See Mic. 6. 9. Hos. 5. 15. and 6. 1. Job 36. 8, 9.

V. 13. brought him again] The LORD inclined the heart of his enemy unto him, who suffered him to return to his kingdom.

knew] Was in his conscience convinced, as 1 King. 18. 39. Dan. 4. 25.

V. 14. built] Repaired or fortified, Chap. 11. 6. and 14. 16.

a w…ll] Which his father had begun, Chap. 32. 5.

Gihon] See 1 King. 1. 33.

the fish gate] Nehe. 3. 3.

Ophel] Or, the …ower.

V. 15. the strange gods] See v. 3, 5, 7.

V. 16. he repaired] For he had demolished that altar, or at least suffered it to decay. Or, he cleansed and sanctified it.

commanded Judah to serve the Lord] As before he had made them to erre, v. 9. See Luke 22. 32.

V. 17. the people] See on 1 King. 15. 14.

V. 18. book of the kings] A civill record.

V. 19. seers] Or, Hosai, or, prophets. See chap. 32. 32. and 2 King. 17. 13.

V. 21. Amon, &c.] These five last verses are recorded in 2 King. 21. 19, &c.

V. 23. Amon] Or, this same Amon.

trespassed more and more] Heb. multiplied trespasse.

CHAP. XXXIIII.

Vers. 1. JOsiah, &c.] See on 2 King. 22. 1, &c.

V. 3. in the eighth yeer of his reign] And sixteenth yeer of his age: when without a protector he alone by himself governed the state. Herein is accomplished the prophecie of the man of God, mentioned, 1 King. 13. 2, &c.

V. 4. And they brake down the altars of Baalim in his presence] Levit. 26. 30.

images] Or, sun-images.

above them] Above the foresaid altars.

made dust] See 2 King. 23. 15.

graves] Heb. face of the graves. See 2 King. 23. 6.

V. 5. bones of the priests] Which had been dead and buried before, 2 King. 23. 16.

V. 6. cities of Manasseh] Which had subjected themselves to him. Such as chap. 30. 11.

mattocks] Or, m…uls. Ezek. 26. 9. They were sharp irone, which being forced into a wall, were means of breaking it down.

V. 7. into powder] Heb. to make powder.

all the land] The tribes mentioned, verse 6.

V. 8. in the eighteenth yeer] From this verse to the twenty ninth is repeated the same history that is recorded, 2 King. 22. 3, &c.

Maaseiah, &c.] These three are not mentioned, 1 King. 22. 3.

to repair] To take order about the repair thereof.

V. 9. they delivered, &c.] After they had summed up the money (2 King. 22. 4.) that he might give it to workmen. So did Joash, chap. 24. 5, &c.

and they returned] Or, when they (namely the Levites) had returned.

V. 10. they put it, &c.] According to the kings charge, 2 King. 22. 5.

V. 11. to the artificers and builders gave they it] 2 King. 12. 11, 12.

to floor] Or, to raster.

the kings] Ahaz, Manasseh, and Amon.

V. 12. faithfully] Heb. in truth, or, faithfulnesse.

all that could skill &c.] This is added for honour sake: for it was then an high commendation to be skilfull in musick, Psa. 4. title. 2 Sam. 23. 1.

V. 14. found a book of the law of the Lord] 2 King. 22. 8, &c.

by] Heb. by the hand of.

V. 16. to] Heb. to the hand of.

V. 17. gathered] Heb. poured out, or, melted.

V. 18. it] Heb. in it.

V. 20. Abdon] Or, Achbor, 2 King. 22. 12.

V. 22. Hasrah] Or, Harbas, 2 King. 22. 14.

wardrobe] Heb. g…rments.

in the colledge] Or, in the school, or, in the second part.

V. 29. Then the king sent, &c.] 2 King. 23. 1, 2, 3.

V. 30. great and small] Heb. f…om greateven to small.

V. 32. he caused all] He kept them in such aw by his regall authority, and penall laws against idolatry, as they durst not but stand to the covenant.

present] Heb. found, chap. 31. 1.

V. 33. abominations] Idols. See 1 King. 11. 5.

all that were present, &c.] All that were under his jurisdiction.

all his dayes, &c.] Josh. 24. 31.

from following] Heb. from after.

CHAP. XXXV.

Vers. 1. JOsiah kept a passeover unto the Lord in Jerusalem] 2 King. 23. 21, 22.

the passeover] See chap. 30. 15.

fourteenth day of the first monethmonth] Exod. 12. 6.

V. 2. in their charges] Num. 18. 5. 1 Chron. 23. 6.

encouraged] See chap. 31. 4.

V. 3. that taught &c.] Or, that prepared the holy things of the Lord; put them before the ark: That is, whereas, while the doors of the temple were shut (chapter 28. vers. 24.) or, a free liberty thereto restrained, ye were forced to keep the passeover, and other holy feasts in private: now that ye hav… the liberty of the temple, where the ark abideth, and is not, as of old, c… ried from place to place, there prepare the holy things of the LORD: and there execute your holy functions. Or, it may be that the ark by some idolater was removed out of his place, and that therefore he exhorted them to put it there again.

it shall not be a burden] Because ye are freed from that ancient service of carrying the ark, and other holy things upon your shoulders, attend the services of the temple more diligently.

V. 4. houses of …our fathers] 1 Chron. 9. 10.

writing of David] See 1 Chron. 23. and 24. and 25. and 26. See also chap. 29. 25.

writing of Solomon his son] Chap. 8. 14.

V. 5. the families of the fathers] Heb. the house of the fathers.

your brethren] Who were of other tribes, but all of the same stock, descending from one father.

the people] Heb. the sons of the people.

V. 6. prepare your brethren] Or, for your brethren, (as chap. 31. 15, 16.)

by the hand] Or, ministery, chap. 7. 6.

V. 7. gave] Heb. offered, v. 8.

to the …eople of the flock] Chap. 30. 24.

kids] Heb. sons of goats.

thirty thousand] See on 1 King. 8. 63.

V. 8. gave] H…b. offered, v. 7, 9.

Hilkiah, &c.] H…lkiah was the high priest. Zechariah and Jehi…l were of the second order: and heads of two distinct families. See 2 King. 23. 4.

V. 9. g…ve] Heb. offered, v. 7, 8.

five thousand] The totall sum given by the king, princes, and priests, was three thousand eight hundred bullocks: and thirty seven thousand and six hundred small cattle. See on 1 King. 8. 63.

V. 10. priests stood in their place] Chap. 30. 16.

according to the kings commandment] Herein he imitated his father David, and observed his direction. See v. 4.

V. 11. they killed, &c.] See chap. 30. 15, 16.

slayed them] See chap. 29. 34.

V. 12. they removed] They separated from the burnt-offerings, which were to be wholly consumed on the altar, such sacrifices as were to be eaten. Or, they took away the livers, kidnies, and other things which were to be consumed on the altar, (Levit. 3. 4, 10, 11) that the flesh might be fit to be eaten.

V. 13. rosted the passeover with fire] Exod. 12. 8, 9.

sod in po…s] See 1 Sam. 2. 13.

divided them] Heb. made them run.

V. 14. b…cause the priests] What some could not do, others did for them. See Act. 6. 2, 3.

V. 15. place] Heb. station.

commandment of David] 1 Chron. 25. 1, &c.

waited, &c.] According to their speciall charge, 1 Chron. 9. 17, 18. and 26. 14, &c.

eve…y gate] Heb. gate and gate.

V. 16. according to the commandment] See v. 10.

V. 17. present] Heb. found, chap. 34. 32.

V. 18. there was no passeover] See on chap. 30. 26. and on 2 King. 23. 22.

of Samu… ] Samuel was the last of the Judges, and before all the kings: so as in all the kings times there was not the like.

V. 20. temple] Heb. house.

Necho] See on 2 King. 23. 29.

V. 21. he sent] Pharaoh Necho.

What have … to do with thee] Heb. What to thee and me, 2 Sam. 16. 10. Joh. 2. 4.

against thee this day] Heb. against thee, O thou, this day. Or, against thee, even thee.

the house wherewith I have war] Heb. the house of my war: or, of mine enemy.

God commanded] By some prophet, as Jeremiah: Or, he might make pretence of Gods warrant to move Josiah the rather to desist, as 2 King. 18. 25.

V. 22. disguised] As Ahab, 1 King. 22. 30.

from the mouth of God] Which Necho said comes from God: but Josiah beleeved it not.

Megiddo] See 1 King. 9. 15.

V. 23. wounded] Heb. made sick. See 1 King. 22. 34.

V. 24. in one of the sepulchres] Or, among the sepulchres.

all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah] Zech. 12. 11.

mourned] This was the greatest mourning that we read of: and not without cause, whether the worth of the man, the good that he did, or the evill that followed upon his death be considered.

V. 25. Jeremiah] As a subject for the losse of so good a king, and as a prophet for the great evill he foresaw to follow upon Jo…ahs death.

si…ging-men, &c.] Who made and …ung dolefull elegies of him.

in the lamentations] Some publike lamentations remaining upon record.

V. 26. goodnesse] Heb. kindnesses.

CHAP. XXXVI.

Vers. 1. THen the people, &c.] The five first verses of this chapter are recorded in 2 King. 23. 30, &c.

V. 3. put him] Heb. removed him.

condemned] Heb. mulcted.

V. 6. Against him] See on 2 King. 24. 1.

Nebuchadnezzar] By his servants, 2 King. 24. 10.

fetters] Or, chains.

V. 7. Nebuchadnezzar also carried of the vessels of the house of the Lord to Babylon] 2 King. 24. 13.

carried of the vessels] Or, part of the vessels, Dan. 1. 1, 2.

V. 8. abominations] Idolatry, and other notorious sins, 1 King. 14. 24.

found in him] His breaking of faith with Nebuchadnezzar, 2 King. 24. 1.

Jehoiachin] Or, Jeconiah, 1 Chron. 3. 16. Or, Coniah, Jere. 22. 24.

V. 9. Jehoiachin was eight yeers old when he began to reign] 2 King. 24. 8.

when he] Jehojakim the father, mentioned, v. 8. For Jehoiachin the son was eighteen yeers old when he himself began to reign, 2 King. 24. 9. see 2 King. 16. 2.

V. 10. when the yeer was expired] Heb. at the return of the yeer.

the yeer was expired] When another yeer began, and it was seasonable to go into the field, 2 Sam. 11. 1. 1 King. 20. 21. For Jehoiachin reigned not a whole yeer, v. 9.

goodly vessels] Heb. vessels of desire. See v. 19.

Zedekiah] Or, Mattaniah, 2 Kings 24. 17.

Zedekiah his brother] Jere. 37. 1.

his brother] Or, uncle. For Zedekiah was his fathers brother, 1 Chron. 3. 15.

V. 11. Zedekiah was one and twenty yeers old when he began to reign] 2 Kings 24. 18. Jere. 52. 1, &c.

V. 12. humbled not] Repented not, though Jeremiah foretold his destruction, Jere. 37. 2, 6, &c.

V. 13. rebelled against king Nebuchadnezzar] Jere. 52. 3.

who had made him swear] See Ezek. 17. 16, 18, 19.

stiffned his neck] A metaphor taken from beasts that will not yeeld their necks to the yoke. It implieth an obstinate disposition, Exod. 32. 9. Acts 7. 51. 2 King. 17. 14.

V. 15. And the Lord God of their fathers sent to them] Jere. 25. 3, 4. and 35. 15.

by his messengers] Heb. by the hand of his messengers.

rising up betimes] A metaphor taken from carefull housholders, who with the soonest seek to redresse mischief, causing their servants for that end to rise betimes.

betimes] That is, continually and carefully.

dwelling-place] Psal. 74. 7.

V. 16. mocked the messengers] See Matth. 21. 35, 36.

no remedy] Till Gods wrath was made implacable.

remedy] Heb. healing.

V. 17. Therefore he brought upon them the king of the Caldees] 2 King. …5. 1, &c.

in the house of their sanctuary] The temple wherein the Jews observed the holy ordinances appointed to them in speciall: and whither they then might fly for refuge.

V. 18. all the vessels] For some of them were carried away before, v. 7.

V. 19. goodly vessels] Heb. vessels of desire, as v. 10. Every way so excellent, as they would make one desire them: such as better could not be desired.

V. 20. them that had escaped from the sword] Heb. the remainder from the sword.

were escaped] Were not slain at sacking the city.

carried he] Nebuchadnezzar (v. 6.) Evil-merodach his son (2 King. 25. 27.) and Belshazzar his son, Dan. 5 1.

untill the reign, &c.] When Cyrus the first monarch of Persia, who subdued the Babylonian monarchy, set them free.

V. 21. Jeremiah] Jere. 25. 9, 12. and 29. 10.

had enjoyed her sabbaths] Levit. 26 34, 35, 43. From the carrying of Jeho…achin into captivity (Ezek. 40. 1.) till Babylon was taken by the Medes and Persians, Dan. 5. 30, 31.

kept sabbath] Or, rested. Levit. 23. 33. and 26. 4. This he opposeth to their prophaning of the sabbath, while they dwelt in the land: which prophanenesse being away, by their removall, the land is said to keep her sabbaths.

threescore and ten] Of his monarchy, wherein Babylon was made subject to him.

V. 22. Now in the first yeer of Cyrus king of Persia, &c.] Ezra 1. 1.

Jeremiah] Jere. 25. 12, 13. and 29. 10.

might be accomplished] Or, when the word of the Lord was accomplished.

stirred up the spirit of Cyrus] By sending some prophet to him▪ or by giving him notice of prophesies tending to that end (as Isa. 44. 28. and 45. 1, &c.) or by some inward speciall instinct.

V. 23. All the kingdoms] Very many: even all round about him on every side.

the Lord God, &c.] Such an acknowledgement of Gods Soveraignty, power, and providence, could not be but by divine instinct.

charged me] See v. 22.

to build] To cause to be built.

an house] Which is to be where the former temple was.

who is there, &c.] Who is willing to help on that work?

God be with him] He prayeth for Gods blessing, and then doth what in him lieth to do.

The two last verses of this book are word for word repeated in the beginning of the next book, to shew that they are one continued history, penned by the same author.