Annotations on the Pentateuch - Psalms - Song of Songs

Annotations.

THE heads] in Greek, the Princes, that is, the [unspec 1] chief fathers. God having designed the limits of the holy land which Israel should inherit, in Numb. 34. and appointed his own portion out of the same, to be given unto the Priests and Levites, Numb. 35. doth now conclude his laws with an ordinance for the settled continuing of the inheritances unto the tribes, as they should at first be allotted unto them. The occasion of this ordinance is a complaint made by some of the Manassites, concerning Zelophehads daughters, if they should be married to men of other tribes. Gilead] in Greek, Galaad, of whom see Numb. 27. 1.

Vers. 2. my lord] meaning Moses, for to him [unspec 2] was the commandment given, Numb. 26. 52, 53. &c. and 27. 6, 7. And by this title they give honor unto Moses, and show their obedience; as the Scripture noteth by the like title given unto others, 1 Pet. 3. 6. Matth. 22. 44, 45. Zelophehad] in Greek, Salpaad: See Numb. 27. 1, &c.

Vers. 3. of the tribes] of any of the other tribes, beside their own. be taken away] or, be diminished; [unspec 3] contrary to adding or putting to, after mentioned: so the inheritances of this, and of other tribes by like accidents might in time be changed, disturbed, and come to confusion, contrary to the order before set of God.

Vers. 4. the Jubiliee shall be] which was every fiftieth year, in which the inheritances that were [unspec 4] alienated to others, were by the law given in Lev. 25. to return unto the first owners; which ordinance also should by such marriages be disanulled.

Vers. 5. the mouth] that is, the word of the Lord, as the Chaldee translateth; in Greek, by the commandment [unspec 5] of the Lord. So the answer which Moses gave, was not of himself, but by advice from God: See Numb. 27. 5.

Vers. 6. good in their eyes] that is, pleaseth them: Daughters are not to be forced to marry with such [unspec 6] as they like not: See Gen. 24. 57, 58. to the family] to some of the family, or, in the family: See verse. 12.

Vers. 7. shall cleave to the inheritance] keeping himself thereto, and (for the better performance [unspec 7] hereof) marrying within his tribe. For this word cleave, is often used in case of marriage, Gen. 2. 24. Dan. 2. 43. Thus God provideth that the order which he should set for the inheritāces in his land, to be divided by lot, might continue throughout all generations; by which means strife also might be cut off, and peace preserved among his people.

Vers. 8. that possesseth an inheritance] or, that is [unspec 8] heir of a possession; by reason that her father had no son to inherit, as in this case of Zelophehad. So here is no restraint of other women, save such as had inheritance. The Priests also and Levites, (which might have no inheritance with Israel, Deut. 18. 1.) had liberty to marry with the women of any tribe; as Jehoiada the Priest had to wife the Kings daughter of Judah, 2 Chron. 22. 11. another took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, Ezra 2. 61. and the like. By reason of such marriages there might be kindred between Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, who was of the daughters of Aaron, and Mary the Virgin, the mother of our Lord Christ, who was of the linage of David, of the tribe of Judah, Luke 1. 5. 36. and 3. 23,—31.

Vers. 11. For Machalh] Hebr. And Machlah, [unspec 11] &c. Of these daughters see Numb. 27. 1. their uncles sons] the sons of their fathers brethren. Compare Levite. 18. 12, 13, 14.

Vers. 12. was unto the tribe] that is, remained [unspec 12] unto (or in) the tribe. So Daniel was (that is, continued) even unto the first year of King Cyrus, Dan. 1. 21. and, they were (that is, continued) there, Ruth 1. 2. and sundry the like. By this example and observation of the Law for inheritances in the holy land, the people of God are taught to hold fast their inheritance in his promises, and right in Christ, which they enjoy by faith; that as the Father hath made them meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in light, Coloss. 1. 12. so they may keep the faith and grace which they have obtained, unto the end, 1 King. 21. 3. Ezek. 46. 18. Jude verse. 3. Hebr. 6. 12.

Annotations.

DEuteronomie:] A Greek word, by interpretation, The repetition, (or second declaration) of the Law. This name is borrowed from Deut. 17. 18. where Mishneh hatorah, the Copy of the Law, is in Greek translated Deuteronomion, which title is given to the whole book, as that which containeth a repetition and explanation of the Laws before given, as v. 5. The Ebrews call this book by the first words thereof, ELLEH HADBARIM, THESE be THE WORDS. And here beginneth the 44 Section, or Lecture of the Law: see the notes on Gen. 6. 9.

Vers. 1. On this side] or, on the out side; that is, beyond Jordan, as the Greek translateth. The word signifieth both sides, and by circumstance of place is to be understood. To those out of the land of Canaan, it was on this side: to the Israelites in Canaan, it was beyond, or the outside of Jordan, where Moses spake these things: For Moses might not enter into the land. Here Targum Yerushalmi (whom Onkelos the Chaldee Paraphrast also followeth) explaineth it thus: These be the words which Moses spake unto all Israel; he rebuked them, for that they had sinned on this side Jordan, &c. Hereupon the Rabbins call this book, Sepher Thocbechoth, that is, the book of Rebukes. Jordan] Hebr. Iarden: a River springing out of mount Lebanon, in the north end of Canaan, running along the Country. Of it, and the mystery thereof, see Num. 34. 12. Joshua 3. the plain] to wit, of Moab's land, as verse. 5. see Num. 22. 1. There Moses spake these things and died, Deut. 34. 5. The Chaldee saith, Moses rebuked them, because they had provoked God in the plain. the red sea] so both Greek and Chaldee do translate it, adding the word sea: others keep the Hebrew name Suph, which signifieth flags, such as grow by the sea and rivers sides, Exod. 2. 3. and so expound it, not of the Sea Suph (called the Red Sea) but of a flaggie place by the sides of Jordan inwards the wilderness of Arabia. So in Num. 21. 14. Pharan] or Paran, a wilderness south-ward from the place where Moses now was, thorough which Israel had passed, Num. 13. 1. in it was a mountain so named, Deut. 33. 2. The Chaldee here addeth, in Pharan, where they mur 〈…〉 against the Manna. Tophel] this is thought to be atowne, called afterwards Pella, which was northward from where Moses now spake. Laban in Greek, Lobon; of others, Lybias; a City lying from them northwest. Hazeroth] by interpretation, Court-yards, and so the Greek expounds it: a place lying eastward. Of Hazeroth we read also in Numb. 11. 35. and 13. 1. Unto it the Chaldee here referreth it, saying, In Hazereth where they provoked God for flesh. Diza 〈…〉 a region, wherein was the City Mezahab, as some suppose. Zahab signifies gold; and so the Greek here translateth, by the Gold-mines. The Chaldee refers it to the golden Calf which they made. All these are limits of the place where Moses gave this Deuteronomy, which was without the holy Land, and river Jordan (wherein 〈…〉 tisme was administered, Matth. 3.) environed with places, which in name and situation, signified 〈◊〉 ; and teach us the use of this Law, which is in afflict the soul by showing it sin, and to pre 〈…〉 for Christ, who by faith bringeth us to 〈◊◊〉 in the heavenly Canaan, Hebr. 4. 1, 2, 3. &c.

Verse. 2. Eleven days journey] so the Chaldee expounds it, adding also the word journey. Some of the Hebrews think, that in eleven days, all things in this Book of Deuteronomy were by Moses rehearsed. Neither could it be any long time seeing Moses began the first day of the eleventh 〈◊〉 ▪ ver. 3. and having ended all things in this book, died and was mourned for thirty days, Deut. 34. 8. Then Joshua sendeth spies to view the land, Ios. 2. leadeth the people thorough Jordan, Ios. 3. circumciseth them, and after keepeth the Passover the fourteenth day of the first month, Ios. 5. Horeb] called also Sinai, the mount where the law was given; see Exod. 3. 1. mount Seir] the mountainy country of Seir, wherein the Edomites dwelt, Gen. 36. 8, 9. Kadesh barnea] the southern border of the land of Canaan, Num. 34. 4. Though the way was so short, yet Israel for their sins wandered forty years in the wilderness, as God had threatened, Num. 14. 33, 34. in which time all the fathers died.

Verse 3. Fortieth year] of Israel's coming out [unspec 3] of Egypt. In the first month of this year, Marie, Moses sister, died, Num. 20. 1. in the first day of the fifth month thereof, Aaron his brother died, Num. 33. 38. and now at the end of the year, Moses himself dieth, when he had repeated the Law, and renewed the Covenant between God and his people Israel.

Vers. 4. Sihon] the story hereof see in Num. 21. [unspec 4] and after in Deut. 2. 26. &c. The slaughter of Sihon and Og, was an encouragement to Israel, for their after wars; and an argument to move them unto thankful obedience to the Law now repeated. in Astaroth, in Edrei] he dwelt in Astaroth, and was smitten in Edrei, where the battle was fought, Num. 21. 33. or as the Greek translateth it, he dwelt in Astaroth and in Edrei; for they were both Cities in Ogs land, Ios. 13. 31. and Og is said to have reigned in Astaroth, and Edrei, Ios. 13. 12. In Gen. 14. 5. it is called Asteroth Karnaim.

Verse 5. began] or, willingly took upon him: for [unspec 5] the word implieth willingness and contentedness: see Gen. 18. 27. So all Ministers should feed their flocks willingly, and of a ready mind, 1 Pet. 5. 2. And Moses began to declare, that is, he declared as Jesus began to say unto his Disciples, Luk. 12. 1. that is, he said unto them, Mat. 16. 6. and his disciples began to pluck the ears of corn, Mat. 12. 1. that is, they plucked, Luk. 6. 1. to declare] or, to make plain, clearly manifest, to the understanding of the people, as in Habak. 2. 2. a thing is said to be made plain in writing, that he may run that readeth it.

Verse 6. dwelt] or sitten (that is, continued) much. [unspec 6] They came to that mount, in the third month after their departure out of Egypt, Exod. 19. 1, 2. and removed frō the mount, the 20 of the second month in the second yere, Num. 10. 11, 12. so they remained there almost a whole year, where they received the Law, or Old Testament, and had made a Tabernacle for God to dwell among them: from thence God calleth them by word and sign, the cloud removing, Num. 10. 11. 13. 33. to journey towards Canaan, the land promised to Abraham, the figure of their heavenly inheritance by faith in Christ. The law is not for men to continue under, but for a time, till they be fitted and brought unto Christ: see Gal. 3. 16, 17, 18. and 4. 1.—5. Heb. 3. 18, 19. and 4. 6.—11.

Verse 7. Amorite] put for Amorites, as the [unspec 7] Greek translateth, whose neighbors were the Canaanites, Pherezites, and other Nations promised to be their possession, Exod. 23. 23, 28, 31. side] or, sea Port, which was their western border, Num. 34. 6. Lebanon] which was a mount on the north part of the Land. Euphrates] in Hebrew, Phrath; which was their eastern bound, in the utmost extent without Jordan. And so far Solomon reigned, 1 King. 4. 21. Of this Euphrates, see the notes on Gen. 2. 14.

Vers. 8. I have given] or, I give: which implieth [unspec 8] both Israel's right unto that land, Levite. 25. 23. Judge. 11. 23, 24. and their assured victory over the inhabitants, Exod. 23. 27—31. Both these proceeding from the gracious gift of God: as eternal life (shadowed by this land) is also the gift of God through Jesus Christ our Lord, Rom. 6. 23. Seed] that is, children, or posterity: see the notes on Gen. 13. 15.

Vers. 9. I said] Moses was occasioned unto [unspec 9] this motion, not only by the conscience of his own inability (here mentioned,) but by the counsel of Jethro, and commandment of the Lord, Exod. 18. 14, 18, 19, 21, 23. Thus the people were furnished with all helps, for their orderly and peaceable travels.

Vers. 10. As the Stars] so the promise was fulfilled which Abraham believed, Gen. 15. 5, 6. [unspec 10] They were six hundred thousand men, besides women and children, Exod. 12. 37. Numb. 1. see also Deut. 10. 22.

Vers. 11. Add] that is, increase: Moses envied [unspec 11] not their multitude, but wished them still more; as David also did, Psal. 115. 14. And the increase of the Church is a special blessing, fulfilled in Christ, as Isaiah 49. 20, 21. and 54. 1, 2, 3.

Vers. 12. Your cumbrance] or, wearisome molestation; [unspec 12] trouble, as Isaiah 1. 14. this showeth the Magistrates office to be weighty and laborious. And by your cumbrance, understand, the cumbrance that cometh unto me by you. For when a people is increased, the care and trouble of their Governors is increased also, 1 King. 3, 8, 9. 2 Cor. 11. 28.

Vers. 13. Give ye] of your own looking out, and choice. So Ministers were looked out, and presented [unspec 13] by the people, Act. 1. 15, 23. and 6. 3, 5, 6. In Ex. 18. 25. it is said, Moses chose men of ability, &c. Here the people gave them: and after in v. 15. Again, Moses gave, that is, made them heads: for when things are done by many, under the government of one principal, they are said to be done by them, or by him. See the Annotations on Num. 21. 21. understanding] or prudent: the Greek translateth, skillful, or endued with knowledge; which word the Apostle useth, I am. 3. 13. known] or expert, as the word signifieth in Isaiah 53. 3. This latter the Greek favoreth here, and in v. 15. Compare Exod. 18. 21. where the qualities of Rulers are set down. Hends] that is, Captains, Governors, or Leaders, as the Greek here translateth; and in v. 15. and c. 5. v. 23. and often otherwhere.

Vers. 15. and gave them] that is, set them, made [unspec 15] them, or constituted them, as the Greek and Chaldee versions explain it. So, he hath given thee over them for king, 2 Chron. 9. 8. is expounded, he hath set (or constituted) thee King, 1 King. 10. 9. Officers] in Hebrew, Shotrim: they were such as executed the Magistrates laws, as the Hebrews think: see the notes on Deut. 16. 18. among] or, to your Tribes. The Greek translateth it, to your Judges: which seemeth to be a mistaking, Shophte for Shibte: although even in the Hebrew text we may see one of these put for another, as Judges in 1 Chron. 17. 6. which in 2 Sam. 7. 7. is Tribes.

Verse 16. Hear between your brethren] to wit, [unspec 16] the causes and controversies between them. Hebr. To hear, which phrase is often used in commandments, as is noted on Exod. 13. 3. and it may be a defective speech; for hearing, hear ye; that is, hear diligently. judge justice] that is, just and righteous judgment: which is opposed unto judging according to the appearance, John. 7. 24. his stranger] that is, the stranger that is with him, or contendeth with him: as, he that eateth my bread, Psal. 41. 10. that is, which eateth bread with me, John. 13. 18.

Verse 17. respect persons] or, acknowledge faces, [unspec 17] either by honoring the person of the mighty, or by countenancing a poor man in his cause, Levite. 19. 15. Exod. 23. 3. Solomon noteth this as one of the things belonging to the wise, that it is not good to acknowledge faces (or respect persons) in judgment, Prov. 24. 23. alike the small, &c.] that is, the small as well as the great, and the great as well as the small. Hebr. like small, like great. It implieth both persons, and causes. of man] or, of any man. that is God's] or, of God, and belonging to him: appointed by his Law. So in 2 Chron. 19. 6. Ye judge not for man, but for the LORD. And a like phrase is in another case, The battle is not yours, but God's, 2 Chron. 20. 15. the cause] or, the word, the matter. See Exod. 18. 22.

Verse 18. all the things] Hebr. all the words. [unspec 18] Thus Moses faithfully taught the Judges and people all their duties, and they had a perfect law. So Christ, (who was faithful to him that appointed him, as Moses was, Heb. 3. 2.) made known to his Disciples, all things that he had heard of his father, John. 15. 15. which they should teach also his people to observe, Mat. 28. 20.

Verse 19. journeyed] or departed. Here Moses showeth the obedience which they began to show unto God, in leaving the mount of God, the place which might seem sanctified, and where men might have said, Lord, it is good for us to be here: as Mat. 17. 4. great] for it bordered upon many countries, Madian, Edom, Moab, &c. and fearful, for the many troubles and terrors in it. Num. 11. 1. &c. it was a land of deserts and of pits, a land of drought and of the shadow of death, a land that no man passed thorough, and where no man dwelt, Ier. 2. 6. wherein were fiery serpents and scorpions, Deut. 8. 15. It was the wilderness of Pharan, Num. 10. 12. and 13. 1. where Ishmael dwelt, when his mother Agar and he had lost themselves in wandering, after that they were cast out of Abraham's house, Gen. 21. 21. It figured the estate and dominion of the law, thorough which God's people pass with many wants, sins, terrors, and stings of conscience, &c. Compare Psal. 63. 2. and 32. 4. and 107. 4, 5. and the healing of all these spiritual defects by the Gospel, Esa. 40. 3, 4. Mark. 16. 18. of the mount] that is, which leadeth to the mount of the Amorites; a people high as Cedars, strong as Okes, Amos 2. 9, 10. Kadesh Barnea] called sometime Kadesh only; it was in the wilderness of Pharan, Num. 13. 26.

Verse. 21. discouraged] or, cast down, broken: [unspec 21] which word, when it is applied to the mind, signifieth discouragement through fear. Here Moses shown them the right that they had in the promises of God; the ability which they had in him to obtain them; and his commandment to take their inheritance set before them.

Verse 23. was good] that is, pleased, or liked me [unspec 23] well: because it was approved, or at least permitted of the Lord, Num. 13. 2, 3. For prudent policy (so it be not mixed with unbelief) doth well beseem us, in the execution of God's commandments. So Joshua sendeth spies and useth other stratagems, Ios. 2. &c. one man of a tribe] or, for a tribe, of every tribe one: See Num. 13. 2, 4. &c. where their names are set down, and the charge given them.

Verse 24. Eshcol] that is, the Cluster of grapes, [unspec 24] whereof the place had the name, Num. 13. 25.

Verse 25. the fruit] as grapes, pomegranates, figs, [unspec 25] Num. 13. 23. a good land] flowing with milk 〈…〉 ney, Num. 13. 27.

Verse 26. rebelled] in Greek, disobeyed: properly [unspec 26] it signifieth turned, or changed, as in Ezek. 5. 6. which figuratively is used for rebellion or disobedience, whereby God's word is as it were changed and disanulled. the mouth] that is, the word, as the Greek translateth. So Exod. 17. 1. Gen. 24. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 and after here in verse. 43. Of their rebellion, see Num. 14. 2, 3, &c.

Verse 27. In the hatred] or, for the hatred of Ie 〈…〉 (wherewith he hateth) us: that is, for that the Lord hateth us; as in the Greek version. See 〈…〉 phrase in Gen. 19. 16. and 29. 20. Hos. 3. 〈…〉 evil saying Moses would not have to come 〈◊〉 of the mouth of their enemies, Deut. 9. 28. and it showeth the height of their sin, which imp •• ed that to hatred, wherein God manifested his 〈◊〉 Deut. 4. 37. and 7. 8.

Vers. 28. to melt] that is, discouraged, or (as the [unspec 28] Chaldee translateth it) broken. The Greek saith, Have turned away our heart. David amplifieth this 〈…〉 litude, in Psal. 22. 15. My heart is as wax, it 〈…〉 ten &c. So Ios. 2. 11. and 7. 5. and 14. 8. Es •• 19. 1. These brethren were ten of the twelve Spies sent to view the Land, Num. 13. 28. &c. 〈…〉 kims] in Greek and Chaldee, Giants: see N •• . 13. 28. 33. where it is singular Anak.

Vers. 30. He] the Chaldee paraphraseth, his [unspec 30] 〈◊〉 will fight for you.

Verse 31. bare thee] this word meaneth not [unspec 31] bearing of the body only, but bearing of their infirmities, and suffering the evils and troubles in the education of them, as a father doth in his children: which the Greek explaineth by etrophophsrese, a word that Paul useth in Act. 13. 18. where the Syriac expoundeth it nourished: or, as some copies have it, etropophorese, he suffered their manners.

Verse 32. yet in this thing] or, for this word: [unspec 32] notwithstanding this exhortation and encouragement, you believed not. in Jehovah] Chaldee. in the word of the LORD. This unbelief Paul noteth to be the cause why they entered not into the Lord's rest, Heb. 3. 1, 2. 18. 19.

Verse 33. Who went] namely, by his Ark, Fire, [unspec 33] and Cloud, the signs of his presence, Numb. 10. 33. 34. or, who goeth, to wit, still before you.

Verse. 35. If there shall] that is, surely there [unspec 35] shall not: as Paul openeth the phrase, Heb. 3. 11. 18. Though Moses entreated for the people, Num. 14. 13.—19. and the Lord pardoned them, that they were not then destroyed, Num. 14. 20. yet he sware (and so it was irrevocable, and without repentance, Psal. 110. 4.) that they should not come into the promised land: See the notes on Num. 14. see] that is, come into and enjoy: as to see good, is to enjoy the same, Psal. 106. 5.

Verse 36. Caleb] one of the twelve Spies who [unspec 36] was faithful: see Num. 13. 6. 30. and 14. 6. &c. fully followed] Hebr. fulfilled after Jehovah; which the Greek translateth, followed the things pertaining to the Lord. This he did, being guided by another spirit, Num. 14. 24.

Verse 37. with me] with Aaron also; for they [unspec 37] both were in one transgression and punishment, Num. 20. 10, 12, 24. for your sakes] for the people provoked his spirit, whereupon he uttered his sin with his lips, Psal. 106. 32, 33. his sin proceeded also from unbelief: see Num. 20. 12. Thus God shown severity towards all, after many provocations: and by it the people were taught, that not Moses Law, but Jesus Gospel should bring them into their heavenly rest.

Vers. 38. Joshua] or, Iehoshuah; in Greek, Jesus: [unspec 38] he was another of the Spies; see Num. 13. 8. 16. and 14. 6. 38. standeth] that is, ministereth, or, is thy servant, as the phrase meaneth, Gen. 18. 8. and so he is named Moses minister, Ios. 1. 1. strengthen] by word and sign, which was imposition of hands, whereby Moses put off his honor upon Jesus, and he was filled with the Spirit, Num. 27. 18. 20. 23. Deut. 34. 9.

Verse 39. for a prey] to be spoiled and devoured [unspec 39] of the enemy: of this their speech see Num. 14. 3. they shall go in] after forty years wandering in the wilderness, and bearing their fathers whoredoms: see Num. 14. 31. 33. So God showeth grace to weaklings and babes in Christ, 1 Cor. 1. 28. Mat. 11. 25.

Verse 40. way of] that is, which leadeth towards [unspec 40] the red sea, where Israel had been baptized, Exod. 14. and whither they were now led again, to learn repentance and a new life. See Num. 14. 25.

Vers. 41. sinned] The people mourned greatly, [unspec 41] when they heard that evil tidings from the Lord; confessed their sin, and offered amendment, Num. 14. 39, 40. but their repentance was not according to God; (for presently they rushed into another extremity;) neither could they reverse the decree passed against them. his weapons of war] or, the weapons of his war, which is an Hebrew phrase very common, translated in Greek, his weapons of War: so in Dan. 9. 24. city of thy holiness, that is, thy holy city; and the house of my prayer, Isaiah 56. 7. that is, my house of prayer; and many the like. pressed forward] assayed of your own accord, or thronged; as the Greek translateth, gathered together; the Chaldee, ye began. The Hebrew word is used here only: in Num. 14. 44. there is said, they loftily presumed, or lifted up themselves; answerable to their presumption here following.

Vers. 42. I am not] the Chaldee expoundeth it, [unspec 42] my majesty (or presence) dwelleth not among you: see Num. 14. 42. smitten] in Greek, broken, or crushed. The Lord threatened their fall by the sword of the Amalekites and Canaanites, Num. 14. 43.

Verse 43. were presumptuous] or, were proud, arrogant: compare Num. 14. 44. The people having by [unspec 43] their evil heart and unfaithful, departed from the living God, would return to him by the works of their own hands; w ^ch was a presumptuous sin, and shown their repentance not to be sincere, but that the flesh repined and struggled against the chastisements of God, not willing to bear the punishment of their iniquity. See the notes on Num. 14.

Verse 44. Amorite] with the Amalekites: See Numb. 14. 45. Bees do] or, Bees use to do: [unspec 44] which when they are angered, get them together, and fly on the faces of their provokers: see Psal. 118. 12. Our sins are enemies, like Bees, many compact in the hive of the heart: being troubled and provoked, they become more eager and fierce, sting and pursue us. They cannot be subdued but by faith in Christ, (as they that were stung of Serpents were healed by him, Num. 21.) for, by the works of the Law, no sin can be expelled, Rom. 7. 7, 8. &c. Hormah] the Greek saith, from Seir unto Herma: see Num. 14. 45.

Verse 45. returned] the Greek saith, ye sat down and wept. heard not] Chaldee, accepted [unspec 45] not your prayer. This figured, how Israel following the Law of justice, could not attain unto it, because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the Law, Rom. 9. 31, 32.

Verse 46. Kadesh] a large wilderness, where Israel abode long, as appeareth by Num. 13. 27. [unspec 46] and 20. 1. 14, 21. Judge. 11. 17. Deut. 2. 14.

Annotations.

HAD spoken] as is before mentioned, [unspec 1] Deut. 1. 40. which then the people were unwilling to do, but would needs go fight, till they had learned by their discomfiture, what it was to disobey, and were enforced to yield unto the word of God. mount Seir] the mountainy country of Seir, which was Edom's Land, Gen. 36. 8, 9, 20. but they went in the wilderness, and were sore cumbered in the way: see Num. 21. 4.

Verse 3. Long enough] a like speech God used [unspec 3] before, Deut. 1. 6. so here is mentioned a second calling of Israel, from the deserts of Seir, to go northward again towards Canaan, after they had wandered almost thirty eight years in Kadesh wilderness, about mount Seir, verse. 14. by which travel, God taught them to mortify their unruly affections, and by the death of so many thousands there, led them to seek life (by repentance and faith) in the heavenly Canaan, seeing they could not come into the earthly. In the mean while, the Amorites, Canaanites, &c. (unto whom God gave this long time of repentance) were hardened in their sins, and took occasion to insult over God's people, beholding their afflictions: but the posterity of Israel were humbled and prepared for to receive the land promised. Northward] towards Canaan; Not the way they went before by Kadesh Barnea, but between the coasts of Edom on the one hand, and of Moab and Ammon on the other; so to enter into Canaan, thorough Sihon the Amorites land. Thus God's word was their director, unto all places, and in all actions: in which respect these histories of holy Scripture excel all human histories in the world.

Verse 4. afraid] as was prophesied of them and [unspec 4] others, in Exod. 15. 15. &c. yet Edom was a mighty people, settled in their mountain, and fortified. See also Num. 22. 3. great] or vehement heed; meaning, that they offered Edom no wrong, neither suffered themselves to be overcome by them: Walk wisely towards them that are without, Col. 4. 5.

Verse 5. Meddle not] or, contend not with them, [unspec 5] to wit, in battle, as is explained in verse. 9. and so the Greek here saith, Make not war with them. As all wars should be made by wise counsels, Pro. 24. 6. so chiefly by the mouth of God, who teacheth man's hands to war, Psal. 144. 1. who hath willed us, If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, be at peace with all men, Rom. 12. 18. In special it was commanded, Thou shalt not abhor an Edomite, for he is thy brother, Deut. 23. 7. to the treading, &c.] that is, not a foot breadth; the Greek translateth it, not the step (or breadth) of a foot: which phrase Luke useth, in Act. 7. 5. concerning Abraham in Canaan. Though the Edomites were wicked, yet God continued their state for a time; during which no man might lawfully disturb them. By this God teacheth also the difference between Esau's portion and Jacob's: see Rom. 9. 11. 12. &c. Col. 1. 12. See the notes on Gen. 36. 43. a possession] or, an inheritance to Esau; that is (as the Greek translateth) to the sons of Esau. The most high divided to the Nations their inheritance, Deut. 32. 8. and Esau had their portion and state long before Israel, Gen. 36. 8. 31. 43. Ios. 24. 4. with such worldly baits God's people should not be allured.

Vers. 6. buy] Hebr. break: which both Greek [unspec 6] and Chaldee translate, buy: see Gen. 41. 56. in the Annotations. In the strangers land nothing was to be had freely, but with money, figuring the estate of those under the Law: in Canaan they had all things freely; signifying the free grace in Christ, Deut. 11. 9, 10, &c. Esa. 55. 1. Rev. 21. 6. money] Hebr. silver. buy] Hebr. dig; which the Chaldee translateth, buy; the Greek, receive by measure. It may be meant of buying wells digged out of Edom's ground; for so they were wont; see Gen. 26. 18. &c. Num. 21. 18. or, after the Arabic manner, which useth this word for buying.

Vers. 7. he knoweth] this is meant of careful regarding their estate, wants, &c. wherefor the Chaldee [unspec 7] paraphraseth, He hath sufficiently given thee things necessary when thou walkest. Jehovah] in Chaldee, the word of the LORD.

Vers. 8. we passed by] though the Edomites [unspec 8] shown great unkindness, that would not suffer Israel to pass thorough their country quietly, Num. 20. 14. 18. &c. yet upon warning and charge given from God, his people turned away from fight, and contented themselves in their temptations, with the promises of God. See Num. 20. 21. Judge. 11. 17. Afterward this favor of Israel, and the ill reward of Edom, Moab, and Ammon, is remembered in the prayer of King Jehoshaphat, 2 Chron. 20. 10, 11, 12. Ezion-gaber] these were port towns, by the brink of the Red sea, in the land of Edom, 1 King. 9. 26.

Vers. 9. Moab] that is, the Moabites, as the next words manifest. So the Greek, deal not enemiously [unspec 9] with the Moabites. They were the posterity of Lot, Gen. 19. 37. which dealt unkindly with Israel, as Edom had done, Judge. 11. 17. and were (for their neglect of duty) not to enter into the congregation of the Lord, Deut. 23. 3, 4. They were also become Idolaters, Num. 25. 1, 2. and 21. 29. yet God suffered not Israel to hurt them, for the reasons before alleged. meddle] or, contend, as before in verse. 5. Ar] a chief mountain, and city thereon, Num. 21. 15. 28. put here for the whole country. The Greek for Ar here hath Aroer, whereof see verse. 36. so in v. 18, 29.

Verse 10. Emims] in Greek, Ommeins, by interpretation, [unspec 10] terrible ones, and so the Chaldee translateth: see Gen. 14. 5. Anakims] in the Chaldee, Giants: see Num. 13. 29.

Vers. 11. Giants] in Hebrew, Rephaim, which [unspec 11] the Greek keepeth as a proper name Raphaein, of one Rapha, who was a Giant; whereupon it is a name for all Giants: see the notes on Ger. 14. 5. so after in Deut. 3. 11.

Vers. 12. Horims] or, Chorites; in Greek, Chorraeans: [unspec 12] see Gen. 14. 6. and 36. 20. possessed] or, disinherited, and so succeeded in their inheritance: the Greek translateth, destroyed them. as Israel did] to wit, afterward, in the days of Joshua: thus it is spoken by way of prophesy; or, it may have reference to that part of Israel's inheritance which they had now conquered on the outside of Jordan. By this and the like, in verse. 22, 23. God would teach Israel not to insult upon their outward conquests (such as he had given to other nations before them) but to seek for an heavenly country. This he remembered to them by the Prophet, Amos 9. 7. Are ye not as the sons of Ethiopians unto me, O sons of Israel, &c.

Verse 13. brook] or bourne: a valley and river [unspec 13] running therein. So the Greek saith, the valley Zareth. Of it see Num. 21. 12.

Verse 14. from Kadesh barnea] to wit, from the [unspec 14] time that they came to Kadesh barnea (where they abode in the wilderness of Kadesh many days, Deut. 1. 46.) and after till they passed over Zared. sware] or, had sworn: see Numb. 14. 21, 22, 23.

Verse 15. the hand] the Chaldee expounds it, [unspec 15] A plague from before the Lord. This is after mentioned, how God consumed their days in vanity, and their years in hasty terror, Psal. 78. 33. and upon occasion of this mortality, Moses made the 90. Psalm. to destroy] with trouble and tumult: for the word elsewhere signifieth, to trouble, Exod. 14. 24. so in Deut. 7. 23.

Verse 19. sons of Ammon] the Ammenites, [unspec 19] the posterity of Ben-ammi the son of Lot, Gen. 19. 38. so in verse. 37.

Verse 20. Giants] or Rephaims, as verse. 11. [unspec 20] Zamzummims] that is, presumptuous wicked ones; in Greek Zommein. These are thought to be those that were of old called Zuzims, Gen. 14. 5. The Chaldee calleth them Chushbanin.

Verse 22. Horims] or Horites; Hebr. the Chorite; [unspec 22] in Greek, the Chorraean: see Gen. 14. 6.

Verse 23. Avims] or Avites; in Greek, Evites: [unspec 23] these were the ancient inhabitants of the Philistines country, Ios. 13. 3. Caphthorims] the Philistines: see Gen. 10. 14. Though Israel fought the battles of the Lord, and had their limits and territories in special manner appointed by his Word, Num. 34. yet other nations also had by his secret providence, their times appointed, and the bounds of their habitation, Act. 17. 26. He increaseth the nations, and destroyeth them; He enlargeth the nations, and straitneth them, Job. 12. 23. Wherefore he saith by the Prophet, Have not I brought up Israel out of the land of Egypt? And the Philistines from Caphtor, and the Syrians from Kir? Amos 9. 7.

Vers. 24. brook] or, as the Greek translateth, the [unspec 24] valley Arnon: as verse. 13. see Num. 21. 13. Sihon] in Greek, Seonking of Esebon. He had afore time taken this Country from the Moabites, Num. 21. 26. which now God taketh again from him, and giveth to the Israelites, who else might not have taken any of Moab's possession, verse. 9. meddle] or contend. Here after long travels in the wilderness, God calleth his people unto wars (which their fathers before were afraid of:) and gave them his word to embolden them, as his truth was their shield and buckler.

Vers. 25. report] or fame; Hebr. hearing, which [unspec 25] the Greek translateth, name. See this promise fulfilled among the Canaanites, Ios. 2. 9, 10, 11. be in anguish] have pains as a woman in travel. A similitude often used to show the terrors of conscience in the wicked, Psal. 48. 7. and the mighty power of God, who taketh away the heart of the chief of the people of the earth, Job 12. 24.

Verse 26. Kedemoth] there was a City of that [unspec 26] name in Sihons Country, which after was given to the tribe of Reuben, Ios. 13. 18. and by them given to the Levites, Ios. 21. 37. near which there was a wilderness where Israel now lay, when they sent this ambassage. of peace] according to the law alter given, Deut. 20. 10. which being refused, the war was now just before God and men.

Vers. 27. by the way by the way] that is, only by [unspec 27] the way, and not turning aside into fields, or into vin 〈◊〉 see Num. 21. 21, 22. where it is called, The 〈…〉 . So in Deut. 16. 20. Justice justice, that is, only justice, and all manner justice.

Verse 28. sell] Hebr. break, as in verse. 6. [unspec 28] [unspec 29]

Vers. 29. of Esau] the Edomites, who though 〈…〉 th • y denied Israel passage thorough their land, 〈◊〉 10. 18. &c. yet as they passed along their 〈◊〉 they suffered them to buy necessaries. 〈◊〉 &c.] It appeareth by this, that if Sihon had 〈◊〉 them to pass thorough his land, they would 〈…〉 time have taken his country, but first 〈◊〉 conquered the Canaanites beyond Jordan: 〈◊〉 upon Sihons denial they now set upon him. 〈◊〉 God doth not impart all his counsel at once to the 〈…〉 ed; but they refusing to yield unto anything, do hasten their own destruction. Com 〈…〉 . 3. 18. So the Gospel, the word of peace, is 〈◊〉 unto all; which they that refuse, hasten 〈…〉 judgment.

Vers. 30. thorough him] that is, thorough his coun 〈◊〉 [unspec] 〈◊〉 Num. 20. 18. hardened] as is spoken 〈◊〉 Pharaoh also, and others; see Exod. 4. 21. in the 〈…〉 otations. The like is said of the Canaanites be •• nd the river, Ios. 11. 20.

Verse 32. to battle] or, unto war; refusing peace, [unspec 32] as they of whom David saith, When I speak (for peace) they are for war, Psal. 120. 7. Iahaz] in Greek, Iassa: see Num. 21. 23.

Verse 33. smote him] with the edge of the sword, [unspec 33] Num. 21. 24. his sons] or, his son: the Hebrew hath both readings, the one in the consonant letters, the other in the vowels: so in Deut. 33. 9. The Greek and Chaldee translate, his sons: it may intend all and every of his sons, or all the sons he had, which were but one. So Manasseh caused his sons to pass thorough the fire, 2 Chron. 33. 6. which another Prophet writeth, his son, 2 King. 21. 6. See the notes on Gen. 46. 23.

Verse 34. of every city] or, we destroyed every [unspec 34] city, (consisting) of men, and women, and little ones: or, city full of men, and women, &c. This was according to the law, Deut. 20. 14, 15, 16. and here is fulfilled upon the wicked, the judgment which is written, His roots shall be dried up beneath, and above shall his branch be cut off: his remembrance shall perish from the earth, Job 18. 16, 17.

Verse 36. by the brook] or, in the bourn (or valley) [unspec 36] as the Greek translateth it. This city was Ar, Num. 21. 15. Gilead] the mount Galaad, as the Greek saith. Of it see Gen. 31. 21. &c. exalted it self] that is, was too strong for us; or, as the Greek expounds it, escaped us. before us] as the Greek saith, into our hands. Here the whole victory is ascribed unto God, which removeth the mountains, and they know not; which overturneth them in his anger; which shaketh the earth out of her place, and the pillars thereof tremble; Job 9. 5, 6.

Verse 37. thou approachedst not] in Greek, we [unspec 37] came not, meaning, to war against the Ammonites, or invade their possessions. any place] or, all the place; Hebr. all the land; in Greek, all (places) pertaining to the brook Iabok; to wit, on the outside thereof; for Sihon ruled from Aroer &c. unto the river Iabok, which was the border of the sons of Ammon, Ios. 12. 2. and all that the Israelites possessed: but the land of the Ammonites, which also reached unto Iabok, Num. 21. 24. they took not: so that Iephtah answered truly, Israel took not away the land of Moab, nor the land of the sons of Ammon, Judge. 11. 15. of the mountain] possessed also by the Ammonites, whose border was strong, Num. 21. 24. commanded us] or, charged us, namely, to abstain from, that is, forbade us to meddle with. The word command is used also in things forbidden: see Deut. 4. 23. Now though the Moabites and Ammonites were thus spared by Israel, yet they ill rewarded them afterward, when they warred against God's people, to cast them out of their possession, Judge. 11. 4, 5, &c. 2 Chron. 20. 1, 10, 11. and ripped up the women with child of Gilead, that they might enlarge their border, Amos. 1. 13. and dwelt in the cities of Gad, Ier. 49. 1. For which the Lord God of Israel plagued them, as also for their unkindness already past, a law is enacted against them, in Deut. 23. 3.—6.

Annotations.

WAY of Bashan] in Greek, the way that (leadeth) unto Basan; which Basan the [unspec 1] Chaldee nameth Matnan: so in Num. 21. 33. Edrei] in Greek, Adraein. Of this battle, see Num. 21. 33. &c.

Vers. 3. his people] in Num. 21. 35. his sons [unspec 3] also are mentioned. none remaining] the Greek translateth it, no seed: meaning none left alive, of whom, as of a seed, others might spring. So when the Prophet speaketh of a remnent, Isaiah 1. 9. the Apostle in Greek calleth it, a seed, Rom. 9. 29.

Vers. 4. threescore Cities] which showeth the [unspec 4] large dominion of this Giant Og, who reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshurites, and the Maachathites, &c. loss. 12. 4, 5. region] in Hebrew, a line, or cord, such as lands are meted by, Amos 7. 17. Micah 2. 5. used figuratively for a country or region (as the Greek and Chaldee also translate it) which is measured by line. Argob] a province or shire in Bashan forementioned, 1 King. 4. 13.

Vers. 5. unwalled] or, villages; in Hebr. Peraz • ; [unspec 5] which the Greek mistaking, turned cities of the Pherezites; but it meaneth unwalled towns (as Est • . 9. 19. Zach. 2. 4.) so named of their dwelling scattered.

Vers. 6. destroying of every city the men] or, de 〈◊〉 [unspec 6] every city of men, &c. as in Deut. 2. 34. 〈◊〉 God destroyed the Amorite before them; 〈◊〉 his height was like the Cedars, and his strength as the Okes, yet destroyed he his fruit from above, and his roots from beneath, Amos 2. 9.

Vers. 8. the land] The killing of the Amorites, [unspec 8] and taking of their land, was a testimony of God's goodness and love unto his people, Psal. 136. 17. 〈◊〉 in encouragement of them to fight against 〈◊〉 residue of the heathen, Deut. 3. 21, 22. and a 〈…〉 ragement to the heathen themselves, Ios. 2. 10, 11.

Vers. 9. Sidonians] the dwellers in Sidon the great [unspec 9] 〈…〉 Greek calleth them Phanicians. Shir 〈◊〉 Greek, Sanior. This mount had five names, 〈◊〉 , Shirjon, Shenir, and Zion, Deut. 4. 48. 〈…〉 , Num. 34. 7. for that divers people's cal 〈◊◊〉 by divers names, and because of divers 〈◊〉 of this mountain: wherefore in Song 4. 8. 〈◊〉 and Hermon are set down as distinct: Shir 〈◊◊〉 Psal. 29. 6. is by the Chaldee paraphrast there expounded, the mount that bringeth forth fr 〈…〉 : and Shenir (in Greek Saner) is by the Chaldee here expounded, the Snow-mount: for it was so 〈◊〉 , that snow used to lie on the top of it. A 〈◊〉 ] Hebr. the Amorite, they call it: which showeth 〈◊〉 singular number to be put for the whole 〈…〉 .

Vers. 11. Giants] in Hebrew, Rephaim, which [unspec 11] 〈◊〉 the Greek retaineth Rephaein, as before in Deut. 7. 11. This Og seemeth to be of the rem 〈◊〉 of those Rephaims whom Chedorlaomer and the Kings smote in Ashteroth, Gen. 14. 5. for Og reigned in Ashteroth, Ios. 13. 12. is it not in Rabbah?] that is, it is in Rabbah: the question maketh it an earnest affirmation, as the Greek also translateth it. Rabbah was the chief City of the Ammonites, their royal City, 2 Sam. 12. 26. The Greek here translateth it, the chief. of a man] which ordinarily is a foot and a half; but the Chaldee here translateth it, the cubit of the King.

Vers. 12. Reubenites] Hebr. the Reubenite, [unspec 12] which the Chaldee expoundeth, the tribe of Reuben, so verse. 16. Of this gift, see Num. 32. 1. &c.

Vers. 13. of Manasseh] for conquering the Amorites [unspec 13] there, Num. 32. 39, 40. Argob] this the Chaldee calleth Tracona. Basan] in Chaldee, Matnan. Giants] in Hebrew, Rephaim, which the Chaldee expoundeth, Mighties.

Vers. 14. Basan Chavoth Jair] the Chaldee [unspec 14] saith, Matnan the towns of Jair: see Numb. 32. 41.

Vers. 15. Gilead] in Greek, Galaad; that is, the [unspec 15] rest of Galaad, as verse. 13.

Vers. 17. Chinnereth] or, Kinnereth, as the Greek [unspec 17] writeth it; which the Chaldee calleth Ginnosar; in the New Testament, Gennesaret, Matt. 14. 34. see the notes on Numb. 34. 11. sea of salt] or, salt sea: see Gen. 14. 3. Ashdoth Pisgah] in Greek, Asedoth Phasga, by interpretation, the Streames (or Sheddings-out, that is, the Springs) of Pisgah (or, of the hill) and so the Chaldee translateth it, The shedding (or, pouring-out) of the waters of Ramatha. Pisgah is a hill, mentioned after in verse. 27. and Ashdoth pisgah was afterward the name of a city there adjoining in Reuben's land, Ios. 13. 20. So Ios. 12. 3.

Vers. 18. you] he speaketh to the Reubenites, [unspec 18] and the rest on this side Jordan: see Num. 32. 20. &c. sons of power] or, sons of valor; that is, able and valiant men, as in 2 Sam. 13. 28. be ye sons of valor, that is, be valiant men: so in 2 King. 2. 16. 1 Chron. 5. 18. The Greek here expounds it, every prudent man; the Chaldee, all armed men of the army.

Vers. 21. Joshua] in Greek, Jesus: see Num. 27. [unspec 21] 18. &c. so will Jehovah do.] The examples of God's former mercies, serve for the encouragement and strengthening of the faith of his people, in the like, or greater trials that may follow: such use also David made, 1 Sam. 17. 36, 37. and Paul, 2 Tim. 4. 17, 18.

Vers. 22. he fighteth] or, he it is that sighteth, or [unspec 22] (as the Greek translateth) will sight. The Chaldee for He, saith, his Word. As Moses here encouraged Jesus the son of Nun, to fight the Lord's battles in Canaan; so Moses and Elias, talking with Jesus the Son of God, told him of his departing which he should accomplish at Jerusalem, Luk. 9. 30, 31. at what time this figure was fulfilled.

Here beginneth the 45 Lecture of the Law: see Gen. 6. 9.

Verse 23. I besought Jehovah for grace] or, I supplicated [unspec 23] for grace unto Jehovah. Here Moses repea • ing his earnest prayer to go into the land, and God's denial of his request, showeth how greatly the people's sin, and his own, displeased the Lord, Num, 20.

Verse 24 Lord Jehovah] or, Lord God: the Greek hath, Lord Lord: See Gen. 15. 2. for what [unspec 24] God?] meaning, there is none. The Chaldee turneth it thus, That thou art God, whose glorious habitation is in the heavens above, and thou rulest in the earth beneath, and there is note that can do according to thy works. powerful acts] Hebr. powers: whereby powerful and mighty works are often meant; as Psal. 106. 2. and 145. 4. Matt. 7. 22. 2 Cor. 12. 12. Gal. 3. 5.

Verse 25. mountain] that is, mountainy country: [unspec 25] see Exod. 15. 17. Lebanon] in Greek, Antili • anon; in Chaldee, the house of the sanctuary, because the Temple was built of the Cedars that grew on mount Lebanon, 1 King. 5. 6, 14. So the Temple is called Lebanon in Zach. 11. 1. But that seemeth not to be meant here; but rather the mount Lebanon, in the north part of the Land, which was both an high and fragrant mountain, with sweet and goodly trees growing thereon: whereto the Scripture hath reference in Song 4. 11. This great desire Moses had, because of the promises which God had made to Israel, to be accomplished in that land, the figure of our heavenly heritage.

Verse 26. for your sakes] for they rebelling, grieved [unspec 26] Moses, and caused him to sin; for which, this wrath came upon him, Num. 20. 3.—12. Psal. 106. 32, 33. And the Lord sware that Moses therefore should not come into Canaan, Deut. 4. 21. which oath Moses, though he repented and entreated for grace, could not get reversed: for when the Lord sweareth, he repenteth not afterward, Psal. 110. 4. would not hear me] Hebr. heard me • not, or, he arkened not unto me: whereby God's will is signified; (as David removed not the Ark, 1 Chron. 13. 13 that is, would not remove the Ark, 2 Sam. 6. 10.) for, If we ask anything according to his will, be heareth us, 1 John. 5. 14.

Vers. 27. Pisgah] the Greek here translateth, [unspec 27] of the hewn hill, because it seemeth they used to hewstones out of it, as they did out of other mounts, 2 Ch ••• . 2. 18. The Chaldee of the height calleth it Ramatha: see Deut. 34. 1. Seaward] that is, We stward, as the Chaldee expresseth. As the Fathers saw the promises a far off and b • leaved, Heb. 11. 13. so Moses a • arre off vieweth the promised Land, and is comforted: see Deut. 34. 1.—4.

Vers. 28. Joshua] or, Jesus; as verse. 21. As Jesus, [unspec 28] not Moses, bringeth Israel into the promised land: So the Gospel of Jesus, not the Law of Moses, bringeth us into the kingdom of heaven, John. 1. 17. Gal. 2. 16. and 3. 12, 13, 24. So it is said of the Tabernacle, that it was brought in with Jesus, into the possession of the Gentiles, Act. 7. 45.

Verse 29. Beth-peor] in Greek, the house of Phogor, an Idol temple on the mount Peor, where [unspec 29] Baal-peor was worshipped: see Num. 23. 28. and 25. 〈◊〉 . Deut. 4 3.

Annotations •

STatutes] or, Ordinances, which taught the service of God, (Heb. 9. 1.) as the next word judgments, [unspec 1] are for duties towards men, and punishments of transgressors. These are often joined together: see Deut. 5. 1. and 6. 1. and 12. 1. Mal. 4. 4. And that Statutes mean the legal services, appeareth by the continual use of this word, as in Exod. 12. 24. 43. and 27. 21. and 29. 9. and 30. 21. teach] or, am teaching: this showeth the work of the law, still urging the conscience to d •• ] for, not the hearers of the Law are just before God, but the d • ers of the Law shall be justified, Rom. 2. 13. may live] Moses describeth the justice which is of the law, that the man which doth those things shall live by them, Rom. 10. 5. possess] or, in • erit the land; which was a figure of our heavenly inheritance (Gen, 12. 5.) proposed to them that do the Law, but given to them that are of the faith of Christ, John. 1. 17. Rom. 4. 13.—16. and 6. 23.

Vers. 2. not add] Hereby all doctrines of men are condemned, Matt. 15. 9. and the all-sufficiency [unspec 2] and authority of God's word, stablished forever, Gal. 3. 1 • . 2 Tim. 3. 16, 17. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar, Prov. 30. 6. diminish] for every word of God is pure, Prov. 30. 5. and profitable for doctrine, for reproof▪ for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 2 Tim. 3. 16. Till heaven and earth pass, one jot, or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the Law, Matt. 5. 18. for to keep] that is, that you may keep; understanding the persons forementioned: so in verse. 5. see the notes on Gen. 6. 19.

Vers. 3. Baal-peor] in Greek, Beel-phegor, the Idol [unspec 3] of the Moabites, unto which many of Israel declined, by the counsel of Balaam: see Num. 25. 1, 2.—18. and 31. 16. Psal. 106. 28. The Chaldee translateth, against them that served Baal-peor. destroyed] or, abolished: by sending a plague, to the death of twenty four thousand, Num. 25. 9. This judgment was remembered after, in Ios. 22. 17. Have we too little for the wickedness of Peor? &c.

Vers. 4. unto Jehovah] the Chaldee saith, unto [unspec 4] the fear (or religion) of the Lord. Thus they that keep themselves pure in general defections, are saved from the common destruction, Ezek. 9. 4, 6. 2 Tim. 2. 19. Rev. 20. 4.

Vers. 6. wisdom] Hereupon the Oracles of God [unspec 6] are often commended, as making wise the simple, Psal. 19. 8. making us wiser than ou • enemies, and to have more understanding than all our teachers, Psal. 119. 98, 99. and able to make us wise unto salvation, through the faith which is in Christ Jesus, 2 Tim. 3. 15. On the contrary it is said, They have rejected the word of the Lord, and what wisdom is in them? Ier. 8. 9. Surely] or, Only. The Greek turneth it, Behold.

Vers. 7. what nation is there so great] or, what [unspec 7] other great nation is there? meaning, there is not any. So in verse. 8. God nigh] or, God's • igh. The Hebrew words are both of the plural number, yet meaning one God in the plurality of persons; as the like is in Deut. 5. 26. Ios. 24. 19. The Greek and Chaldee here translate it singularly, God. And he is said to be nigh us, specially when he heareth, and granteth our requests, Psal. 145. 18. So the Chaldee here paraphraseth, nigh unto the same, toreceive the prayer thereof, in the time of the tribulation thereof. We likewise are said to draw nigh unto God, when we call upon him in faith, Psal. 73. 28. Heb. 7. 19. Esa. 58. 2. and both are conjoined in I am. 4. 8.

Vers. 9. thy soul] that is, thyself: the soul is [unspec 9] often put for the whole man. So where one Evangelist saith, lose his soul, Matth. 16. 26. another saith, Iose himself, Luk. 9. 25. diligently] or, vehemently; so verse. 15. and often. The word implieth strength as well as diligence. See Deut. 6. 5. things] Hebr. words, which the Greek also and Chaldee here keepeth. lest] or, that they depart not: in Greek, Let them not depart from thy heart. Compare Prov. 3. 1. 3. and 4. 21.

Vers. 10. Horeb] or, Choreb, called also Sina • : see [unspec 10] Exod. 19. Paul calleth it, The mount that might be touched, Heb. 12. 18.

Vers. 11. heart] that is, the midst: as the heart [unspec] of the Sea is the midst thereof, Exod. 15. 8. So here, the heart of heaven is the midst of the ai • e. thick darkness] or, tempestuous darkness, gloc •••• 〈◊〉 , as the Greek version, and the holy Ghost in Heb. 12. 18. implieth. See Exod. 20. 21. Unto this ••• ible mount where the Law was given, Paul opposeth mount Zion, or the state of grace by the Gospel, Heb. 12. 18▪22. It noteth the hidden glory of God's kingly administration in his Church, Psal. 97. 1, 2.

Vers. 12. voice of words] This also Paul mentioneth, [unspec 12] Heb. 12. 19. In the next verse Moses calleth them ten words, that is, ten commandments, whereof see the notes on Exod. 34. 28. no similitude] to wit, of God: so after, save a voice, that is, the voice of God, as in verse 33. Hereupon it is said, To whom then will ye liken God, or what liken • sse will ye compare unto him? Esa. 40. 18.

Vers. 13. of stone] signifying the perpetuity of [unspec 13] these words, and also the stoniness of men's hearts, as is noted on Exod. 31. 18.

Vers. 14. statutes] for the worship of God, as [unspec 14] judgments were for the repressing and punishing of vice, Exod. 21. 1. These were spoken to Moses only, and by him written to Israel: but the ten words were spoken to all the people, and written by the singer of God.

Vers. 19. the sun] It was a common corruption, [unspec 15] not only amongst the heathens, but in Israel, to worship the Sun, and Stars, and host of heaven, 2 King. 21. 3. and 17. 16. Amos 5. 25, 26. of which sin Job cleareth himself, Job 31. 26, 27. driven away] or thrust, to wit, out of the • ay, as is after expressed in Deut. 13. 5. which is meant by the seduction of others, or of their own hearts. Therefore the Greek and Chaldee here 〈◊〉 translate it, beest deceived, or made to err and 〈◊◊〉 , which the Hebrew word implieth, being after used for the straying of cattle, Deut. 22. 1. Imparted] or, divided, distributed as a port •• . It noteth God's bounty in giving all people's the use of those creatures, (as on the contrary false gods are said to divide or impart nothing unto them Deut. 29. 26.) and the base mind of men, to worship such things as are given for servants unto all men.

Vers. 20. furnace of iron] that is, furnace wherein [unspec] 〈◊〉 melted: so Egypt is called for the cruel op 〈…〉 Israel: likewise in 1 King. 8. 51. Ier. 11. 4. people of inheritance,] that is, whom God shall 〈◊〉 , & take for his possession: the Greek 〈◊〉 and inheritance. as this day] under 〈…〉 〈◊〉 ye are, or, as ye see this day.

Vers. 21. your sakes] or, your words: as the Greek [unspec] 〈◊〉 , the things spoken by you: meaning 〈◊〉 〈…〉 ring words, Num. 20. 3, 4, 5. where 〈…〉 〈◊〉 being grieved, obeyed not the commandment 〈…〉 God, Num. 20. 12. Psal. 106. 32, 33. 〈◊〉 spake of before, Deut. 3. 26. and now a 〈…〉 , to show God's severity against all 〈…〉 .

Vers. 23. stroke] or cut, that is, covenanted or [unspec] 〈◊〉 ••• es doth often speak of the covenant first 〈◊〉 between God and them, as that which was 〈◊◊〉 of all religion, to them and their seed after them: and whatsoever men added, altered, 〈◊〉 diminished from it, was to be reputed evil. So Paul reforming abuses in the Churches, calleth them to the first institution, 1 Cor. 11. 23, 24. charged thee] or, commanded thee, that is, commanded thee not to do, or, forbidden thee: so in Deut. 2. 37. for God's precepts in the Decalogue, are for the most part for bods, or prohibitions; yet usually called commandments. The whole phrase is expressed in Ge. 3. 11. which I commanded thee not to eat of it, that is, which I forbade thee to eat of.

Vers. 24. fire] to consume all his enemies; and [unspec 24] thine, if thou obey him, as Deut. 9. 3. and thee thyself, if thou disobey him; as Zeph. 1. 18. Heb. 12. 29. See also Exod. 24. 17. The Chaldee addeth, his word is a consuming fire: which is also true, Ier. 23. 29. Deut. 33. 2. jealous] the former word signified God's power, this his will: having a jealous affection, whereby he will not spare; as Prov. 6. 34, 35. See Exod. 20. 5.

Vers. 25. waxen old] that is, continued long, as the [unspec 25] Greek explaineth it, and become ancient inhabitants. God's blessings were by Israel abused to sin, as is here foretold, and again in Deut. 32. 15.

Vers. 26. perishing ye shall perish] that is, surely [unspec 26] and speedily perish: in Greek, perish with perdition: so in Deut. 30. 18, 19. where again he calleth heaven and earth to witness.

Vers. 27. few men] Hebr. men of number; that is, [unspec 27] soon numbered for your fewness; as the Greek translateth, few in number; and in Job 16. 22. years of number, are a few years: see Gen. 34. 30. This is contrary to that promised blessing in Gen. 15. 5.

Vers. 28. serve gods] being given over to your [unspec 28] own lusts, as it is written, God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven, Act. 7. 42. This same God threatened afterward, in Ier. 16. 13. But the Chaldee here turneth it, ye shall serve people's that serve Idols, the work of men's hands. nor smell] the vanity of Idols is after this sort described in Psal. 115. 4.—7. Ier. 10. 3.—9.

Vers. 29. seek Jehovah] the Chaldee translateth, [unspec 29] seek the fear of the Lord; meaning his true service. Here Moses annexeth promises, to comfort repentant sinners: as also in Deut. 30. 1, 2, 3, &c. all thy heart] see an example of this in 2 Chron. 15. 15.

Vers. 30. find thee] that is, come upon, or befall [unspec 30] thee, as the Chaldee explaineth it.

Vers. 31. thy fathers] Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. [unspec 31] See Levite. 26. 42. &c.

Vers. 32. of the heavens] that is, from one utmost [unspec 32] part of the world unto the other. By the heavens are meant the parts of the world under the heavens: and the holy Ghost openeth this phrase; for in Mat. 24. 31. it is written, from the utmost parts of the heavens, unto the utmost pa • ts of them: for which in Mark. 13. 27. is said, from the utmost part of the earth, unto the utmost part of the heavens. By which it is evident, that the heavens in this speech, is put for the earth under the heavens; for heavens comprehendeth the Air also, wherein we breath, as is noted on Genesis 1. 8. great thing] Hebr. great word. Moses hereby would teach, that God's words and works unto his Church are more great and marvelous than all his actions to other people's whatsoever; and therefore ought the more seriously to be considered.

Verse 33. voice of God] the Chaldee saith, the [unspec 33] voice of the word of the Lord: the Greek, of the living God. and lived] As at the apparitions of God, men were wont to fear they should die, Judge. 13. 22. and 6. 22. So at the giving of the law, all Israel desired that they might hear the voice of God no more, lest they died, Exod. 20. 19. Deut. 18. 16. which manifested the power of the law, and the weakness of men, Heb. 12. 19. So no man can see the face of God, and live, Exod. 33. 20. when God giveth his voice the earth melteth, Psal. 46. 7.

Verse 34. hath God] or, hath any God; speaking of the true God, and his works unto Israel, above [unspec 34] all other people: or of the reputed gods of the Gentiles, none of which ever did such a thing. assayed] or, tempted. This is spoken not of God trying his own strength, but proving the obedience of his people, and trying the strength of his adversaries. The Chaldee translateth, Or the temptations, (or signs) which the Lord hath made to reveal himself, &c. temptations] Moses here reckoneth seven things, about Israel's deliverance; Tentations, whereby God, propounding his will, tried their obedience: (as when God tempted Abraham, Gen. 22. 1.) Signs, which many times are of ordinary works and natural, as Exod. 3. 12. Wonders, which are of extraordinary, and supernatural works, as Exod. 4. 21. and 7. 9. War, upon the refusal and resistance of the enemy, Exod. 8. 1, 2. Strong hand, not by cunning policies and stratagems, as men often use in wars; but by force, compelling the enemy to yield, Exod. 6. 1. Stretched out arm, by open manifesting his power, and plagues continually upon the resisters, Isaiah 9. 12, 17. Exod. 6. 6. and Great terrors, which wounded the hearts of the very enemies, Exod. 9. 20, 27, 28. and 10. 7. and 12. 30. terrors] or fears, the Greek and Chaldee translate, visions, or, sights, which are oftentimes fearful; but the Hebrew for fears and visions, are one much like another, which might cause the mistaking. So in Deut. 26. 8.

Vers. 35. so know] that is, that thou mightest know, and acknowledge. The end of all God's [unspec 35] works was the manifesting of his glory, to the information and salvation of his people. This Moses often urgeth in this book.

Vers. 36 to instruct] or, to nurture, chastise: by restraining from vice. So God's chastening, and [unspec 36] teaching out of his law, are joined together, in Ps. 94. • 2. Though chastening be often with works (as Levite. 26. 18, 28. Deut. 8. 5.) yet is it also with words: is here, (where the Chaldee translateth it teach) and Prov. 9. 7. and 31. 1. Ezek. 23. 48. Job 4. 3. the fire] before, he said, out of heaven; and now, out of the midst of the fire: for though the voice came out of heaven, Israel perceived it not, but only out of the fire, saith R. Menachem on Deut. 4.

Vers. 37. therefore he chose] or, and chose (that is, loved) his seed after him, therefore he brought thee [unspec 37] out. God's love, and election out of love, is the cause of man's redemption and salvation. his seed] that is, the seed of thy fathers, everyone particularly; as the promise was made to Abraham, then to Isaac, and after that to Jacob severally. The Greek and Chaldee translate it plurally, their seed (or sons) after them. in his sight] or, with his face (or presence) The Greek saith, he brought thee out himself; the Chaldee, he brought thee out by his word. Thus the face or presence of God, may imply Christ, the Word, the Angel of God's face, Esa. 63. 9. He it was that brought Israel out, as 1 Cor. 10. 1, 9. and the sign of his presence was in the pillar of the cloud and fire, Exod. 13. 21. and 14. 19, 20.

Vers. 38. to drive out] to wit, out of possession (as [unspec 38] the original word implieth) or, to disinherit; the Greek saith, to destroy, (or, root out.) as it is] the Greek addeth, as thou hast this day. Meaning of the land of Sihon and Og, which they had now in possession, a sign of further victory, Deut. 3. 21.

Vers. 39. And thou shalt know] or, know (and [unspec 39] acknowledge) therefore: see verse. 35. The knowledge of, and obedience unto God, is continually urged, upon the remembrance of his former mercies. So 1 Chron. 28. 9. cause it to return] or, bring again, reduce, that is, call to mind, and consider, that not only for the present, but always after, God's true fear might continue in them. So in Deut. 30. 1. where this phrase is used: see the annotations there.

Vers. 40. all days] this may be referred both to [unspec 40] the latter, the possessing of the land; and to the former, the welfare and length of life. In Mat. 28. 20. all days, is explained, unto the end of the world.

Vers. 42. unwittingly] or, without knowledge thereof, [unspec 42] unawares. See the law for this, in Num. 35. 9, 10, &c. and after in Deut. 19. 2. in times past] or, in former days; Hebr. from yesterday, and the third day. See Gen. 31. 2.

Vers. 43. Bezer] in Greek, Bof • r: see Ios. 20. [unspec 43] 8. and 21. 36. 38. 27. 1 Chron. 6. 78, 80. Golan] in Greek, Gaulon.

Vers. 44. this is] He meaneth, that which hereafter [unspec 44] followeth; so this belongeth to the next chapter, where the repetition of the laws beginneth.

Vers. 45. after they came forth] Hebr. in their [unspec 45] coming forth: but In is often used for After, as is noted on Exod. 2. 23. so again, in verse. 46.

Vers. 46. Beth-peor] in Greek, the house of [unspec 46] Phogor, an Idol Temple: see Deut. 3. 29. Amorites] Hebr. Amorite: in Greek, Amorreans. smote] that is, killed, as is noted on Gen. 14. 17. This victory is here again touched, the more to stir up the hearts of the people, to obey God's law, who had begun to show them his power and goodness.

Vers. 48. bank] Hebr. lip. Zion] in Greek, Seon. This is not that which usually the Scripture calleth mount Zion, in Jerusalem; but otherwise written, and called Hermon: see Deut. 3. 9.

Vers. 49. sea of the plain] the sea of salt, Deut. 3. 17. the lake of Sodom, or dead sea. Ashdoth Pisgah] or, the springs of Pisgah: see the notes on Deut. 3. 17.

Annotations.

IN your ears] that is, in your hearing, and to your understanding: the Chaldee translateth it, before [unspec 1] you. Here Moses purposing to repeat the ten commandments, prepareth the ears and hearts of the people unto obedience. to do] or, and do: see the notes on Gen. 2. 3.

Vers. 2. stroke] Heb. cut a covenant, the reason of which phrase is shown on Gen. 15. 18. [unspec 2] in Horeb] or, at Choreb, called also Sinai: see Exod. 19. 20. and 24. 8. God, though he might absolutely command, yet vouchsafed to enter into covenant with his people, that by mutual stipulation and promises, he might have not constrained, but free and voluntary obedience performed by them, to his glory, and their further good.

Vers. 3. fathers] which are dead: hereby all the Patriarchs unto Adam may be meant, who had [unspec 3] the promise of the covenant of Christ; but the covenant of the Law came after, as the Apostle observeth, Gal. 3. 17. Or it may mean, our fathers only, as Rashi here expoundeth it, such as died in the wilderness, after the Law was given. See also Deut. 11. 2. even us] or, we are they, which are here this day, the Greek translateth, & you are here all alive this day. So the covenant was yet fresh in memory. Also they had a greater benefit than their fathers: for though the Law could not give the life, yet was it a Schoolmaster unto Christ, Gal. 3. 21. 24.

Vers. 4. face to face] that is, openly, clearly, plainly; as Exod. 33. 11. Gen. 32. 30. Deut. 34. [unspec 4] 10. 1 Cor. 13. 12. opposed to the dark visions, by which God before time revealed his will.

Vers. 5. I standing] or, stood, as the Greek translateth, And I stood between the Lord, which the [unspec 5] Chaldee calleth, the Word of the Lord. Thus the Law was given in the hand of a mediator, Gal. 3. 19. for God and the people were not one; by reason of their sins: therefore they were afraid.

Vers. 6. servants] in Greek and Chaldee, servitude. God redeemed Israel; not only from outward [unspec 6] slavery, but from the idolatry of Egypt, Ezak. 20. 5.—9, and 〈◊〉 their gods, 2 Sam. 7. 23. therefore he commanded them to have no other gods, before his face. See the annotations upon, Exod. 20. where these commandments are more largely opened.

Vers. 7. any other gods] or, another god: see [unspec 7] the notes on Deut. 4. 7.

Vers. 8. graven thing] the Chaldee translateth [unspec 8] it Image. any] the Greek saith, nor the likeness of anything. The word or, is in Exod. 20. 4.

Vers. 10. his commandments] or, his commandment; [unspec 10] meaning all and everyone of them, or, the whole Law in general: see the notes on verse. 31. The like is in Deut. 8. 2. and 27. 10. The Greek and Chaldee translate, my commandments, and so Moses wrote in Exod. 20. 6. but here he changeth the person, as Daniel also in his prayer faith, O Lord, &c. keeping covenant and mercy to them that love him, & to them that keep his commandments, Dan. 9. 4. We may also observe such changes in the other Prophets; as, to make him a name, 2 Sam. 7. 23. for which, in 1 Chron. 17. 21. is written, to make thee a name: so in 2 Sam. 14. 22.

Vers. 12. Keep] or, Observe; for this, in Exod. [unspec 12] 20. 8. he said, Remember. as Jehovah, &c.] this sentence is added, more than in Exod. 20. 8. So again in the fifth commandment, verse. 16. And these two charges only are affirmative, all the other are prohibitions.

Vers. 14. Ox, &c.] these particulars are also [unspec 14] here added, for explanation. as well as thou] or, even as thou. This reason was not expressed in Exod. 20. 10. And it showeth that the Sabbath was commanded in part for the ease of servants, which were of the heathens that were round about them, Lev. 25. 44.

Vers. 15. to do] that is, to celebrate: the Greek [unspec 15] translateth, to keep the Sabbath day, and to sanctify it. In Exod. 20. 11. the creation of the world is there rendered as a reason, which is here omitted; and the coming out of Egypt (which seemeth to be on the Sabbath day) is here made a reason of observing this day. For it was a figure of deliverance out of spiritual bondage by Christ (as is shown upon Exodus,) and lo fit to be meditated on upon the Sabbath.

Vers. 16. be well with thee] or, good may be done [unspec 16] unto thee. This branch of the promise is more than was expressed in Exod. 20. 12. and this addition the Apostle also citeth, in Ephes. 6. 3. but putteth it there in the first place, changing the order of the words, which the Scripture often doth, as may be seen, in 2 King. 11. 8. compared with 2 Chron. 23. 7. Joel 2. 28. with Act. 2. 17. 1 King. 19. 10. with Rom. 11. 3. Isaiah. 65. 1. with Rom. 10. 20. Mat. 21. 13. with Mark 12. 8.

Vers. 18. Neither shalt thou] or, And thou [unspec 18] shalt not: and so in the precepts following; all which are joined to the former, with this copulative And, (otherwise than was in Exod. 20.) to teach the conjoining of all these commandments, as into one body of the Law: which must be likewise in our obedience. Because, Whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not cemmit ad •• tery; said also, Do not kill, &c. I am. 2. 10, 11.

Vers. 20. false] or, rash, vain. The same word [unspec 20] Shav, used before in verse 11. but for it in Exo. 20. Moses useth the word Sheker, false: and so the Chaldee hath in this place.

Vers. 21. wife] in Exod. 20. 17. our neighbors house is put in the first place, and his wife in the second, [unspec 21] otherwise than here. So they that would divide this commandment into two, cannot show which is the ninth, and which is the tenth, seeing Moses hath purposely changed the order. desire] Here again Moses useth another word, 〈…〉 veh, whereas in Exod. 20. 17. he keepeth one word in all the particulars, tachmod, covet: which are two words in sound, but one in signification; (though it may be with some difference of degree) whereof there be sundry other examples in Scripture; as Hinneh, Behold, 1 Chron. 17. 1. for which another Prophet saith, Reeh, See, 2 Sam. 7. 2. Chajath, a troop, in 2. Sam. 23. 13. or Machanah, an host, in 1 Chron. 11. 15. he returned, jashab, 2 Sam. 6. 20. or, he turned again, jissob, 1 Chron. 16. 43. Iaghnal, he offered up, 2 Sam. 6. 17. or, Iakrib, he offered, 1 Chron. 16. 1. and many the like: so that from two words of like sense, here cannot be gathered two sundry commandments. The like was in the ninth commandment before, in verse. 20. And if this Desire be another commandment, there were but nine given in Exod. 20. Or if there were ten, as is avouched in Exod. 34. 28. then here must be eleven, contrary to Deut. 10. 4. But degrees of the same sin, make not here several precepts. The Hebrews make this desire to be less than coveting, and say, Desire bringeth a man to coveting, and coveting bringeth him to unjust taking away; for if the owners be not willing to sell, though he would give them a great price, and he is urgent upon them, then he falleth to taking by violence; as it is said (in Mic. 2. 2.) And they covet fields; and take them by violence. Maimonides tom. 4. treat of Rapine, &c. c. 1. s. 10, 11. his field] the Greek saith, nor his field: this also is added more than in Exod. 20. 17. And usually, when anything it repeated, either by the Prophets or Evangelists, i • 〈◊〉 with variety of words and phrases; of which, being compared, there is very great use, for the understanding of the Scriptures.

Vers. 22. added no more] meaning, no moe commandments of this sort, (for they were but ten 〈◊〉 Deut. 4. 13.) or no more unto the people; there were spoken to Moses, Exod. 21. 1. &c. The Chaldee translateth, ceased not: see the notes on Nam. 11. 25. of stones] both to have them perpetual to his Church, Job 19. 23, 24. and in mystery, to show the stony nature of men's hearts: see the annotations on Exod. 31. 18. unto me] that Moses might carry them to the people, and see then duly executed. So the Magistrate is the keeper of both the tables of the Law; for Moses was 〈◊〉 in Ieshurun, Deut. 33. 5.

Vers. 23. and the mount] understand, and saw the mount, as Deut. 18. 16. Exod. 20. 18. The things which the people heard and saw, were terrible unto then, because they were sinners; but a mean to humble them, and drive them unto Christ, H 〈…〉 . 12. 18.—24. Gal. 3. 19.—24. Elders] in Greek, Senate, or Eldership. The people all, and even the greatest and best, fled from before the Lord, and came to Moses for to be a Mediator. See Exod. 20. 18, 19. in the annotations.

Vers. 24. his voice] the Chaldee saith, the voice [unspec 24] of his Word. So in verse. 25.

Vers. 25. why should we die?] The Greek translateth, [unspec 25] let us not die: so it is a deprecation. This speech implieth the sentence of death also, which their own hearts pronounced against them for their sins: for such a question is likewise an affirmation; as, Why doth he speak blasphemies? Mark. 2. 7. is expounded, this man blasphemeth, Matt. 9. 3. And this showeth the effect of the Law in our consciences; it causeth the spirit of bondage to fear, Rom. 8. 15. and when the voice of God in his Law is heard and understood of men, it terrifieth and killeth; before that, they think they are alive without the Law, Rom. 7. 9, 10. fire] which signified the force of the fiery Law, Deut. 33. 2. that it is in man's heart, as a burning fire shut up in his bones, as Ier. 20. 9. both manifesting sins, and tormenting the conscience; wherein it differeth from the Gospel, Heb. 12. 18. then] or, surely; Heb. and we shall dic. Thus there was not a law given which could give life, Gal. 3. 21. but the letter killeth, 2 Cor. 3. 6. and the law is not of faith, Gal. 3. 12. the hearing of it, and escaping death, caused them not to believe: but the just shall live by faith, through the Gospel of Christ, Rom. 1. 16, 17. unto whom the Law was a Schoolmaster, Gal. 3. 24.

Vers. 26. all flesh] or, who is any flesh, that is, any [unspec 26] frail man: for, all flesh is grass, Esa. 40. 6. The Greek translateth, For what flesh? Which word flesh is often used for unregenerate man, as is noted on Gen. 6. 3. and to such especially, the Law is the terrors of death: though all human nature being in sin, is here condemned. So in Psal. 143. 2. the living God] The Hebrew words are both plural, implying the mystery of the Trinity, as is noted on Gen. 1. 1. and he is called the living God, (as here, so in Ios. 3. 10. 1 Sam. 17. 26. Esa. 37. 4. Psal. 42. 3. Hos. 1. 10. and in sundry other places) to oppose him unto all false gods, which are called the dead, Psal. 106. 28. whereupon it is said, Ye turned to God, from Idols, to serve the living and true God, 1 Thess. 1. 9. Also to show that God is powerful in operation, being not only living in himself, (so that he only hath immortality, 1 Tim. 6. 16.) but the giver of life unto all; For in him we live, and move, and have our being, Act. 17. 28. and he is the fountain of living waters, Ier. 17. 13. who continually and abundantly refresheth his people. It signifieth also his eternity, as he that liveth forever and ever, Revel. 10. 6. of whom it is said, For he is the living God, and continuing forever, Dan. 6. 26. Wherefore that speech of Job, My Redeemer liveth, Job 19. 25. is translated in the Greek, The Eternal is he that shall unloose me. and lived] Men till they be redeemed by Christ, are through fear of death, all their life time subject to bondage, Heb. 2. 15. Though God came not now to judge them, neither so much as up braided them with their sins past, yet could they not hear his voice, but (as the Apostle noteth) they that heard it, entreated that the word should not be spoken to them anymore, for they could not endure that which was commanded, Heb. 12. 19, 20.

Vers. 27. Go near thou] The people being [unspec 27] terrified, seek for a Mediator; and that is the end and use of the Law, to drive men unto Christ. Wherefore their affection now pleased God, verse. 28, 29. and he gave them Moses to help them for the present, and further promised them a Prophet like unto him, which was Christ, Deut. 18. 15.—18. Act. 3. 22. 26. thou speak unto us] The office of a Mediator, as he is a Prophet, (Deut. 18. 15.) is here described; which is, to go near unto God, & having received the word from him, to speak it unto the people. This was fulfilled in Christ, John. 1. 18. and 3. 13. and 8. 28. Here in the Hebrew do thou speak, the words are in the feminine gender, as if they had spoken to a woman; which is thought to be a note of the people's troubled mind: see the like in Num. 11. 15. and doc] The like they promised before God spake these words, Exod. 19. 8. not knowing the impossibility of the Law: but how far they were from performing this, the golden calf which they made ere forty days were expired, is a witness; for which sin Moses brake the Tables of the covenant, Exod. 32. Deut. 9. 9. &c. yet their good affection pleaseth the Lord.

Vers. 28. well said] The Greek translateth, they [unspec 28] have spoken all things rightly (or well.)

Vers. 29. Who will give] An Hebrew phrase, meaning, O that some would give, or, O that there [unspec 29] were; and so the Chaldee explaineth it. The like is in Job 6. 8. Psal. 14. 7. and 55. 7. and otherwhere. to fear, &c.] The things that God approveth in men, are, fear, humility, distrust in themselves, and a confidence in him, with love unto his Law. Hereunto God called them, by this his covenant, drawing them unto Christ.

Vers. 31. all the commandment] that is, the Law in general, or commandments, as the Greek translateth [unspec 31] it, the singular being often put for the plural; or, every commandment. So in Deut. 6. 1. and 8. 1. also in 2 Pet. 2. 21. and 3. 2.

Vers. 32. observe to do] or, and do, as this phrase often signifieth: see the notes on Gen. 2. 3. [unspec 32] right hand or to the left] This signifieth an exact care to walk in God's Law, as in the high way, from which men may not turn aside; as in Deut. 2. 27. Therefore all aberration from the right way, is noted by the turning to the right hand or to the left, Esa. 30. 21. So after in Deut. 17. 11. 20. and 28. 14. Prov. 4. 27.