A Pisgah-Sight of Palestine

1 Merchant-Mercers.

Such as traded in Silks (Byssus in latin, though rendered fine-linen in our translation) blue and purple, being Egyptians, Syrians, and from the Isles of Elisha. By Elisha understand Peloponnesus, wherein an ancient & ample country called Eli’s, and part thereof termed Alisium by Homer, where the adjacent Islands Co, Carpathus, Cythera, Rhodes, Gyarus &c. are eminent for plenty of purple. Here some will object it was a real tautology to bring purples to Tyre, seeing by general confession the best of the world were made in that place. In answer whereunto, know that these Elishian purples being of a different die and dress from those of Tyre, were a distinct commodity. It is so far from being needless pains, that it may bring considerable Profit, to carry Char-coals to New-castle. And these courser purples, though not for the Tyrians own wearing, might be for their barter with other Nations. Not to say, but that the peevish principle might possess the people of Tyre, to slight homebred, and prize foreign wares, so that the Tyrians Ladies might prefer those purples best for their own use, which were fetched the farthest off.

2 Merchant-Grocers.

Such as traffiqued with the chief of all spices being those of Sheba, and Raamah, both being places in Arabia the happy. Great no doubt was the fragrancy of these spices brought over land to Tyre, whereas such as are conveyed into England by ship from India, have the less vigor of that land where they grow, and the more moisture of the sea through which they are brought. The men also of Dan and Javan (of whom hereafter) furnished Tyre with Cassia and Calamus, drugs of high worth and value.

3 Merchant-Drapers.

Such as brought precious clothes for (or with) chariots being the men of Dedan, which is an eminent country in Idumea.

4 Merchant-Fishmongers.

Many of these must be presumed in Tyre, where fish was a staple commodity, which they transported into other countries, and vented for their own gain without any other respect of time or place. This caused Nehemiah's complaint that in Jerusalem there dwelt men of Tyre which brought fish and all manner of ware, and sold them on the Sabbath.

5 Merchant-Gold-smiths.

Such as occupied in her Fairs with all precious stones out of the Country of Sheba and Raamah aforesaid. Besides Emeralds, Corals and Agate brought out of Syria, Silver from Tarshish. i. e. Spain (as our Author irrefragably proves plenty of that metal therein) and gold from Arabia. Yea, as some observe that though the body of the Sun ariseth in the East, yet his shining by reflection is first discovered in the west, so granting gold originally to grow in lands east from Tyre, yet in this City most gorgeous and glittering was the luster thereof, beaten and drawn out in most artificial embroideries and embosments.

6 Merchant-Skinners.

Although no mention of their trade in this City, where the heat of the climate made furs not only useless but burdensome, yet we may be confident there wanted not those therein which traded in such skins which were in valuation in these parts.

7 Merchant-Taylours.

Such as dealt in all sorts of things, in blew clothes and broidered work, and in Chests of rich apparel bound with cords and made of Cedar. Those that traffiqued in these commodities were of Haran and Canneh and Eden and Sheba, Ashur and Chilmad, all near one another (as appears by their bundling up together) about the confluence of Tigris and Euphrates.

8 Merchant-Haberdashers.

Great their number who by whole • sale sold • he fine manufactures wrought here, of Gold, Silver, Ivory and Ebony, brought from Dedan (different from the former country of the same name in Idumea ) at this day called Daden, situate on the Persian gulf. But oh the infinite varieties of precious toys made thereof! Well did Homer give the Sidonians the Epithet of 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , or very much ingenious. Their fingers might seem all of bone, so strong and hardy to endure any labor; and yet all of flesh, so flexible and limber to any employment. Those mysteries in manufactures which English men in our age gaze on as rare discoveries, the Phoenicians of Tyre would but smile at as rude recoveries of what by them was most perfectly performed.

9 Merchant-Salters.

Store of these may be concluded therein, not only because salt is so needful a commodity, but also because at Misrepothmaim or the boiling of waters, hard by Sidon, great store of salt was made.

10 Merchant-Iron-mongers.

Such as bartered in Iron, Tin, or Lead Brought from Spain or Tarshish, as also in vessels of brass from Javan, Tuball and Mesech, that is, Ionia, Pontus and Moscovia, as our Author will have it, though we are not at leisure severally to examine his judgment therein.

11 Merchant-Vintners.

Such as traded in Wine of Helbon (no doubt most delicious to the Palate) brought hither by the Merchants of Damascus. Helbon we conceive the same with Calybon a City in Syria whereof mention in Ptolemy, and from which the Country about it is denominated Calybonidis.

12 Merchant-Clothworkers.

Such as from the Whitewooll brought from Damascus transmitted the same from the Spinsters wheel, to the Weavers loom, to the Fullers sheares, to the Dyers vat, and so to be worn by the greatest Princes in the world, who were beholding to Tyre the center of rich clothing, for all their holy-day apparel. Thus was their City fraught with commodities of all kinds, to say nothing of their Smithfield full of horses, horsemen and mules from Togarma, or Cappadocia; their East-cheap full of the flesh of Rams, Lambs, Goats, &c. from Arabia: their Leaden-hall where a market was kept with the wheat of Minnith, and Pannag out of Judea, so that all things save piety, humility, and thankfulness to God, were to be had in this City.

§ 16. Thus sat Tyre on her throne in a Princely posture, no less envious then proud: witness her rejoicing at the destruction of Jerusalem (the breaking of one Merchant is the making of another) when she said to herself, Jerusalem is turned unto me, I shall be replenished now she is made waste; meaning that all trading divided before, should now be engrossed to herself alone. But God marred her markets, threatening by Isaiah to stain the pride of her glory, alluding to Tyres master-piece which was to fixe fair and fresh colors, which God would soil and blur, notwithstanding all her curiosity in that kind. Ezekiel useth two maritime expressions as most proper for a Port; first that her enemies should come up against her as the Sea causeth his waves to come up, and then that an east wind should break her, meaning Nebuchadnezzar (living north-east from this place) who afterwards besieged and sacked the City.

§ 17. It seems the taking thereof, called elsewhere the strong City Tyre did not quit cost for the taking thereof, the profit received by it not countervailing the pains expended upon it; God himself confesseth that Nebuchadnezzar served a great service against Tyre and yet had no wages. One tells us that the Tyrians after thirteen years siege, despoiled of all hope of relief, abandoned their City, and in their ships transported their wives, children, and portable wealth to Carthage, Cyprus, and other Colonies, leaving Nebuchadnezzar their empty nest, when all the birds worth pluming, were flown away. However God afterwards gave him the spoil of the land of Egypt for wages for his army. Thus, not only those who do God's will in a direct line, but also such, who collaterally (not to say casually) work his pleasure shall find a reward, seeing in sacking of Tyre, Nebuchadnezzar went in the path and pace of his own pride and covetousness, though haply in his own way he met with God's will, not only besides his intention, but without the knowledge thereof.

§ 18. As the ruins, so the restauration of Tyre was foretold by the Prophet; not the same numerical Tyre in place and position (for Paletyrus or old Tyre ever after remained desolate according to the prediction, thou shalt be built no more ) but the same in name, country, convenience of site, wealth, and wickedness. Yea, she exchanged and improved her place for commodity and strength, removing from the entrance to the midst of the Sea, from the continent to almost an Island. Here to use the Prophets expression, after seventy years (the end of the Babylonish kingdom) Tyre began to sing as an harlot; Siren songs to allure Merchants to be her lovers, as before; counting trade and profit t • be her richest pleasure. And so she did flourish again as much or more then ever, during the Persian Monarchy, about two hundred six years; till Alexander the great made her change her tune, alter her notes, and turn her merry love songs into mournful Elegies on her self. For being denied by the Tyrians in their City to sacrifice to Hercules the Tutelar God of that place, Alexander not so superstitious as ambitious, with vast pains and expense (as one whom no peril could affright, nor labor weary) sacked the City, putting such to the sword as resisted, and causing two thousand moe to be hung up in rank on the sea shore. At which time he built a Castle of his own name (now corruptly called Sandalium ) two miles south of the City.

§ 19. Yet Tyre afterwards recovered itself to considerable greatness, like a cunning Broaker, though often proving quite bankrupt, she set up again, though having nothing to give her credit but the conveniency of her situation: as indeed an harlot needs no other wares then herself to set up her trading. Insomuch that the Poets fiction of the Phoenix springing again out of his own ashes, being disclaimed by natural History for a falsehood, may mythologically find a truth in, and probably fetch its ground from this Phoenix or Phoenician City of Tyre, always arising fresh and fair out of his own ruins. In our Savior's time it was a stately place, and yet though with Dives it was clothed in purple; Tyre could not with him fare deliciously every day, unless beholding to Herod's land of Galilee to afford it constant provision, because its country was nourished by the Kings Country. Sensible hereof when Herod was highly displeased with these of Tyre and Sidon, they politically compounded the breach (knowing that to fight with him who fed them, was the ready way to be famished) and opening the breast of Blastus the Kings Chamberlain with a golden key, through that passage they made their access to pacify King Herod.

§ 20. Tyre at this day is reduced almost to nothing. Here it is seasonably remembered that Ethbaal Father of Jezebel was the King, as Tyre was the chief City of the Sidonians, and I find a great conformity betwixt the fortunes of his daughter and this place:

In their

• 1 Outward happiness. She a crowned Queen, and Tyre a Crowning City, whose Merchants were Princes.
• 2 Inward wickedness; both of them styled Harlots in Scripture.
• 3 Final wofulness; she eaten up by the dogs to the short reversion of her skull, feet and palms; and Tyre so consumed by all-devouring time, that now no other then an heap of Ruines, yet have they a reverent respect, and do instruct the pensive beholders with their exemplary frailty.

Enough of Tyre, if not too much: fearing that long since the Reader hath sadly sympathized with the sufferings of Nebuchadnezzar and Alexander, guessing their pains to be great in the long siege of this place by the proportion of their own patience in reading our tedious description thereof. All I will add is this, that though Tyre was a sink of sin, yet is this recorded in excuse of her profaneness, and mitigation of her punishment, that if the miracles done in Chorazin and Bethsaida had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have long since repented in sackcloth and ashes.

§ 21. Two bows shoot from the east gate of Tyre the place is shown, where the woman made that spiritual-carnal exclamation, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps that gave thee suck; when Christ not disproving her words diverted his Auditors from this, and directed them to a more necessary trut • , Yea rather blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it. A little mile south of old Tyre are four fair pits, the least twenty five cubits square, commonly called Solomon's Cisterns. Surely the water of them is more clear then is the place alleged out of the Canticles, to prove Solomon the Author thereof, where but obscure and oblite mention is made of those water-works. More probable some King of Tyre made these and the neighbouring Aqueducts, for the use of the City.

§ 22. Seventeen miles north of Tyre lay the City of Sidon, so named from the eldest son of Canaan. A city of great antiquity, seeing Tyre is termed by the Prophet, the daughter of Sidon. Sure here the Hebrew proverb held true, As is the mother, so is the daughter, both of these Cities being of great wealth and wickedness. Insomuch that to live careless, quiet, and secure, is in Scripture phrase to live after the manner of the Zidonians.

§ 23. It was also a place of very great extent, therefore termed in holy writ, Zidon Rabbah, or great Zidon. Not that there was ever a lesser Zidon, (though there be one grand Cairo, it followeth not there is also a petty Cairo ) but it is emphatically so named in comparison of other Cities. Yea Diodorus Siculus and Pomponius Mela make Sidon the greatest city of all Phenicia; understand then anciently, whilst as yet she suckled Tyre, her little infant, which afterwards outgrew her mother in greatness. This haply is the reason why Homer so often making honorable mention of Sidon, is so silent of Tyre, because reputing this latter a parcel of the former.

§ 24. Many and great were the fortifications of Sidon: but in vain was the arm of flesh with it, when God himself saith, Behold I am against thee O Zidon; whereupon in general it felt the same destruction with Tyre, which here we forbear to repeat. Only we will add, that as bad a place as Sidon was; after Christ's resurrection a Church was quickly converted therein; and Saint Paul sailing to Rome touched here, and was courteously refreshed by his friends.

§ 25. Near the east-gate of Sidon they show the place, where the Syrophenician woman begged so importunately for the cure of her daughter, not disheartened though likened to a dog, by our Savior. In deed she shown one of the best qualities of a dog in keeping her hold where once she had well fastened, not giving over or letting go, until she had gotten what she desired.

§ 26. So much for the City of Sidon. The Country of Sidon was larger, adequate almost to Phenicia, and full of many fair harbours. Amongst these Zarephah or Zarepta, styled both in the old and New Testament, a City of Sidon. The land round about it was fruitful of the best Wine, as we have formerly observed. During the three years drought in Israel here dwelt that widow, whose thrift had so evenly ordered her bread and oil, that a little of both were left, till she got a spring in her cruse by entertaining the Prophet Elijah. As for her son restored to life by Elijah, that he was Jonah that eminent Prophet, it may be ranked with the making of Dinah Jacob's daughter to be Job's wife, and with Ruth her being daughter to Eglon King of Moab; all which three traditions are equally improbable in themselves, altogether ungrounded on Scripture, and yet peremptorily affirmed of the Jewish Doctors. Nor have I ought else to observe of this City, save that the Hebrew name of Zarephah, signifieth a conflatory or melting place, where metals, (whereof plenty in this Province) were made fu • il by the fire in their furnaces.

§ 27. Accho remains to be observed in the south part of this Tribe, and confines of Zebulun. A learned writer conceiveth it called Ace by Grecians from affording medicine ( 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 in Greek) to Hercules, when hurt in his conflict with the Lernaean Serpent. Whereas indeed Ace is plainly derived from Accho the Scriputre name of this City. Thus those who take aim from the Greek tongue to shoot at the Etymologies of Hebrew places, come wide of the mark. This city was afterwards called Ptolemais from one of the Kings of Egypt. Here I forbear to recite how Jonathan, through the perfidiousness of Tryphon and his own over credulity, was trained into this city, taken and murdered. Saint Paul sailing from Tyre touched here, saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day. As for Achzib a city of Asher whence they could not expel the Canaanites, it was seated nine miles north of Ptolemais, being a tolerable harbor, and called Ecdippa afterwards.

§ 28. Many were the rivulets in this Tribe, but those no sooner delivered out of the womb of their fountains, but devoured in the grave of the Ocean; only Belus hath got a name (though not in Scripture) running through the Cendevian Lake, famous for its inexhausted sands, turning all things it toucheth into glass. As for the sepulcher of Memnon, whom the Poets feign the son of the Morning, and Josephus erects his monument near the river Belus; we take no notice thereof, being hereafter to find his tomb, the dew of whose birth is as the womb of the morning, in a far distant place.

§ 29. The Arms usually assigned to Asher are azure, a standing cup covered Or, relating to Jacob's blessing, he shall yield royal dainties. A cup being taken here by a Synedochicall metonymy for all plentiful Provisions, Asher otherwise affording dishes as well as cups, and esculents as well as variety of beverage. But should the shield of this Tribe be as full of charge as the land thereof was fruitful of commodities, what was the credit of the country would be the disgrace of the Coat of Asher.

Here the Map of Zebulun is to be inserted.

[illustration]

THE TRIBE OF ZEBVLVN. CHAP. 6.

§ 1. ZEbulun tenth son of Jacob by Leah his wise had his posterity so increased in Egypt, that fifty seven thousand four hundred were extracted from him. All which dying in the wilderness for their manifold disobedience, their next generation being sixty thousand five hundred possessed the land of Canaan. Honorable mention on all occasions is made of this Tribe in Scripture. How forw • rd were they in their expedition against Sisera, in so much as out of Zebulun they came down that handled the pen of the writer; Gown-men turned Sword-men, Clerks became Captains, changing their penknives into swords. Thus the peaceableness of their profession can bail none to stay at home, when eminent danger arrests all at the suite of the Commonwealth to serve in person abroad. David calls them the Princes of Zebulun &c. and well might he afford them that style of dignity, who attended him at Hebron with an army so absolutely accomplished

For

• 1 Number, fifty thousand.
• 2 Skill, expert in war, which could keep rank.
• 3 Weapons, with all instruments of war.
• 4 Loyalty, they were not of double hearts.

Yet in all ages, of all the numerous Tribe of Zebulun, we find but two Grandees expressed by name, Elon a peaceable Judge, and Jonah an eminent Prophet. But what shall we say? A greater then Jonah was here, even Christ himself, the honor and dishonor (though not of the tribe) of the land of Zebulun: honor, because here miraculously conceived, poorly & painfully bread & brought up, here frequent in preaching & working of miracles: dishonor, because carelessly neglected and scornfully contemned, yea dispightfully persecuted of his own countrymen.

§ 2. Zebulun had Asher on the north-west, Naphtali on the north-east, Issachar on the south, the Mediterranean on the west, and Galilean sea on the east thereof. This maritime position of this Tribe Jacob foresaw in his Prophecy, Zebulun shall dwell at the haven of the Sea, and he shall be for an haven of ships, and his border shall be unto Zidon. Which Charter of sea conveniencies is renewed, and enlarged by Moses in his blessing, Rejoice Zebulun in thy going out, and Issachar in thy tents. They shall call the people unto the mountains, and there shall they offer Sacrifices of righteousness, for they shall suck of the abundance of the Seas, and treasures hid in the sand. Where though these two Tribes be made Partners, and joint sharers in marine interests, and are promised equal profit thereby, yet Issachar it seems loved land and an home life best, employing his canvase rather for Tents, then Sails, whilst the sea and going out in long voiages was rather Zebuluns delight. So have I seen chickens and ducklings hatched under the same hen, no sooner unhoused out of their shells, but presently the one falls a pecking on the ground, the other a padling in the water.

§ 3. Nor let any be staggered at the close of Jacob's Prophecy, wherein he foretelleth, Zebuluns border shall be unto Sidon, finding this Tribe to fall many miles short and south of that place. For Sidon is not there to be taken for the City but Country so named. And the land of the Sidonians or Phoenicians, extended to Accho or Ptolemais a city thereof, on which the north bound of Zebulun did confine. Greater will be the difficulty to assign a clear reason, why in the first book of Chronicles, where the Pedegrees of all the other Tribes are reckoned up; Zebulun and Dan (as considerable and deserving as the rest) is omitted. The best is, places not persons concern our present subject, and I hope I shall not betray such indiscretion to leave the plain and ready Rode of my work in hand, to enter into the wood (not to say the bog) of an impertinent question.

§ 4. We begin with the sea of Galilee the eastern boundary of this Tribe, called always a sea by three of the Evangelists, but generally a Lake by Saint Luke. Indeed amongst lakes it may be accounted for a Sea, such the greatness; amongst seas reputed for a lake, such the sweetness and freshness of the water therein. The extent thereof is most variously reported amongst Authors.

• Josephus makes it an hundred furlongs long, and six broad.
• Pliny measures it to be sixteen miles long, and six broad.
• Munster assigns it to be twenty German miles (eighty English) in compass.
• Bunting contracts it to twelve in length, four miles and somewhat more in breadth.
• Biddulph a late English Divine, and eye-witness thereof computes it eight leagues in length and five in breadth (three miles to all leagues) whom for the main we have followed.

Others assign it other dimensions, all agree it is not very great. But what it wants in bigness, it hath in variety of names, called the Sea of

• 1 Cinnereth only in the old Testament from a City of that name in the Tribe Naphtali. Others conceive it so named from Kinnor, an Harp in Hebrew, which it is said in shape to resemble: sure the high winds, sometimes make but bad music (to the ears of mariners) when playing thereupon.
• 2 Gennesareth
• 3 Tiberias.
• cities of note in our Savior's time flourishing thereon.
• 4 Galilee, the country which almost on all sides surrounded it.

Small vessels sometimes termed 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 Ships, sometimes 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , Boates or Barges, went to and again in this sea, Gally-like sailing or rowing (or perchance both) as they saw their advantage. They were little of strength, (because no Pirates to molest them) and not great of burden, not comparable to the ship wherein Saint Paul sailed on the Mediterranean Sea, carrying two hundred threescore and sixteen souls, which for the greatness thereof might be Admiral of all the Navy in the New Testament. The river of Jordan runneth through the midst of this Sea, and mingleth not therewith, but preserveth his own stream entire: which some impute to the swiftness, yea rapidness of his course, not at leisure to take notice of (much less to unite with) any water he meets in the way, before he come to his journeys end at the dead Sea.

§ 5. This was the only and all the seas, that ever our Savior sailed upon. It is reported of wise Cato, that he repented he ever went thither by Sea, whither he might have gone by land. But see here Wisdom it self (who by going about might have passed to any place on the other side of the Sea) preferred the use of a ship, not to spare his own pains, (whereof none more liberal) but to

• 1 Shew natures intent of the Sea, made as well to be sailed, as the ground to be gone upon.
• 2 Take occasion to manifest his Deity in working of miracles thereon.
• 3 Comfort seafaring-men in their distresses, praying to such a Savior as had an exprerimentall knowledge of the danger on both elements.

And here, amongst the many voyages of our Savior (who often crossed the length and breadth of this sea-lake) let us take account of some most remarkable. And first in general we may observe, that after the working of some extraordinary miracle, (which might have great influence on people's affections) as the feeding of so many thousands, Christ presently put to sea (clouding himself in obscurity) and shunning popularity so far, that it should venture a drowning, if offering to follow after him.

§ 6. The first voyage we will insist on, was when our Savior sailed in Simon's ship, who formerly had fished all night, getting nothing save a drowsy head and empty hands, until casting his net at Christ's command, he caught such store of fish, both his and his partners ship began to sink. O when will any earthly thing fall out even to our desires! We always find fish, either none at all, or too many; and a surfeit of wealth is as dangerous as a famine thereof. The fish were now ready to return into the water from whence they came, and not by their wit, but weight had caught their fishermen, had not Christ by miracle brought all safe to shore.

§ 7. A second when the Disciples put to sea at the command, but without the person of their Master. Tossed they were on the waves, rowing with great pains to little purpose, for the wind was contrary, till looking at last they see Jesus walking on the water; Then were the words of the Psalmist literally true, Thy way is in the Sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known. The Disciples unable to conceive such a mystery conclude it was a Ghost. It is not worth our enquiry, what Ghost, or whence, good or evil, of man or devil, this wild guess being the effect of their fright, then which no more professed foe to a clear judgment. Christ quickly discovering himself, Peter requests a commission to meet him: which granted, he walks for a while on the water, till his Faith first, then feet failing him, he began to answer the name of Cephas, proving himself a stone, not by the stability, but the heaviness thereof, and began to sink, till Christ saved him. Nor was Christ sooner in the ship, but the ship was at the land. Thus those many strokes at the oars which the Disciples had taken before, were not merely lost, but only laid up, and now restored them in their speedy arrival. Yea the sails of the ship were not now on the mast, but in the keel thereof, Christ's person did the deed. Thus projects driven on without God's gracious presence are but driven on, whilst such designs fly to their wished end, which take God along with them.

§ 8. The third and last voyage we will insist on, was when the ship was not upon but under the sea, covered with the waves. Yea, it was now full of water, and the Disciples of fear, whilst Christ himself was fast asleep, having a pillow under his head, and a softer under his heart, a clear conscience. See we here our Savior a perfect, because an imperfect Man, his infirmities speak the reality of his humanity. Working had made him weary, weariness had caused him to sleep much out of a desire to be refreshed, more out of a design to be awaked. Here all cry out, Master save us, we perish. Danger will make the profane to pray, the willful-dumb to speak, who will find a tongue, rather then lose a life. No doubt Judas himself, who afterwards sold him, was now as clamorous as any to be saved by him. Christ awakes, and rebukes first the Disciples for being too fearful, and despairing, then the winds and waves, for being too bold and presumptuous. Both obey, owning their Creatours voice; as well may his words, who made them at first, make them now to be quiet.

§ 9. Many more were the voiages our Savior made on the Sea, as when after the feeding of so many thousands, they had but one loaf in the ship, and on our Savior's caveat of the leaven of the Pharisees, their jealousies grew solicitous for food. Had they not besides that one loaf in their Cup-board, twelve moe in their memory (five at one batch, and seven at another) on the recollection whereof their minds might feed, to depend on providence, especially whilst the founder of the feast was in their company. But we who condemn them, are too likely to commit the like distrust, if left to ourselves, upon less occasion. To return to our Savior, it is observable that after his resurrection, we read not that he sailed anymore upon the Seas. For such a fluctuating and turbulent condition, which necessarily attends sea-voyages, was utterly inconsistent with the constancy, stability, and perpetuity of Christ's estate when risen from the grave. The firm land therefore better agreeing with his fixed and immovable happiness, thereon he stood, and only gave the word of command to his disciples at Sea, on which side they should cast forth their net, when they caught so many fishes. And so much for the Sea of Tiberias, hoping that if the weakly reader be sea-sick by staying so long on the water, he will instantly be well upon our arrival on the main land, to which now we proceed.

§ 10. As this Tribe did overflow in sea conveniences; so it fell not short in the commodities of the land. The country thereof was enamelled with pleasant rivers, whose banks were adorned with fair Cities. We will follow the chanells of those rivers, which will direct us to the most considerable places in Zebulun; beginning with little Jordan. Indeed so little, that there is no mention thereof at all in Scripture, and little in other Authors, Mercator being one of the first in my observation that takes notice thereof. It ariseth in the south part of the vale of Iephtael, and running full east is augmented from the south with the tribute of another brook, fetching his course by Nazareth an eminent place, and famous in the New Testament.

§ 11. Nazareth was seated on the brow of an hill, in the very center of this Tribe: so called (as Saint Jerome will have it) from a flower which it signifieth in Hebrew, because Christ, that Prime Rose and Lily, had here his conception. For though he saw his first light at Bethlehem, he sucked his first breath in Nazareth, where his mother lived till very near the time of her delivery. Also here he afterwards had his poor and painful education, working on his Fathers trade (as it is probable from the words of the Evangelist, Is not this the Carpenter? ) though who would not have rather looked for a Scepter, then an Axe in his hand, who was born King of the Jews?

§ 12. His short and secret abode at Bethlehem, long and public living at Nazareth, gave the ground to the then vulgar error, that he was born in this place. To foment this popular mistake, and disguise the truth of Christ's nativity (so to leave the Jews at the greater loss concerning their Messiah ) the devils (who knew full well that he was Jesus of Bethlehem by birth) publicly called him Jesus of Nazareth, the reputation of that place running so low in common account, that no good could thence be expected. This nickname of Nazareth, first publicly fastened (as some conceive) by Satan on our Savior, stuck by him all his life, yea at his death, (fixed by Pilate in his title on the Cross) yea after his ascension, so that such as believed on him, and embraced his doctrine, were opprobriously termed, the sect of the Nazarens.

§ 13. Here also some (otherwise good and learned) men, are guilty of another mistake, in making Christ one of the Legal Nazarites (whence groweth the length of his hair in most pictures) who by virtue of their vow were tied to many ceremonious observances. Whereas our Savior frequently drank wine, familiarly touched the dead & took them by their hands, (and probably therefore a Rasor touched his head) both the former being expressly forbidden the Mosaical Nazarites, during the days of their separation. Yet how our Savior is termed a Nazaren in reference, it may seem, amongst others, to that Prophecy, And there shall come out a Rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a branch [ 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 ] shall grow out of his roots, we leave to the learned Commentators on that Text.

§ 14. During our Savior's living at Nazareth after he entered into the Ministry, he bestowed a Sermon on this place of his education, and having found out his text , Isa. 61. 1.

• 1 He closed his book. Not in any vain ostentation of his memory; but because either his Auditors were so well versed in the letter of the Scripture, that they could tell by heart any quotation he should cite therein: or rather, because out of his fullness of divine knowledge and wisdom, himself had no more need of it; and he would thereby fasten the more their ears, and his tongue to that one text which was of so main concernment and importance unto them.
• 2 And he gave it again to the Minister. Of him he received, to him he restored it, and coming in Reader by his leave, he would not undermine the Incumbent, of the place, but honored him in the presence of his people. Hereby also he might haply show that Ministers are to keep God's word, not as hucksters in gross, but as Stewards to dispense it.
• 3 And sat down. Professor-like, to show his authority, and the steadiness of his doctrine. In England the Pastor only stands, whilst the people sit; yet we envy not their ease, nor begrudge our own pains; any posture shall please us, which may profit them.
• 4 And the eyes of all were fastened on him, (advantaged likely thereunto by the round and pillar-less structure of their Synagogue) not sleeping there, nor gazing about, nor reading, an action (like Achitophel his counsel) good, but not at that time:

§ 15. How this comes to pass, let others largely dispute. We may in brief conclude, it is partly because their cradles can be remembered, and those swaddling-clothes, once used about them, to strengthen them whilst infants, are afterwards abused against them, to disgrace them when men, and all the passages of their childhood repeated to their disparagement. Partly because all the faults of their family (which must be many in a numerous alliance) are charged on the Prophets account. Wherefore that Prophet who comes at the first in full growth from a far foreign place (not improving himself amongst them from a small spark, to a fire, to a flame; but sunlike arising in perfect luster) gains the greatest reputation amongst people: Because in some respect he is like Melchizedek, without Father, without Mother, without descent, whilst the admiring vulgar, transported with his preaching, and ignorant of his extraction on earth, will charitably presume his Pedegree from heaven, and his breeding, as calling, to be divine.

§ 16. The cruel Nazarites brought Christ to the brow of the hill, with full intent to cast him down headlong. All in vain. For Christ's death was to come a clean contrary way, not by throwing him down, but by lifting him up. And he passing thorough the midst of them went his way. Not that (as the Rhemists interpret it, to make way for their transubstantiation) he penetrated contrary to the nature of a body, thorough the very breasts of the people, but that either he smote them with blindness, that they did not see, or else struck them with fear, that they dared not to stay him, the power of his Person wedge-like cleaving its way, and forcing a lane for his passage in the midst of the people.

§ 17. Expect not here • hat I should write anything of the opinions of the heretical Nazarenes, taking their name from this City of Nazareth, and are commonly (but corruptly) called Nostranes at this day. Much less will I trouble myself and the reader, with the several stages of the Chapel of the Angelical-salutation. A Chapel which well may pity the pains and perils of such pilgrims as repair thereunto, having itself had an experimental knowledge how tedious travail is in its own often removealls: flitting first from Nazareth to Flumen a City in Illyrium, thence for the unworthiness of the inhabitants translated to a wood in the Picene field, and thence again (because the wood was infected with thieves) carried by Angels into the ground of two brethren, who falling out about parting the profit thereof, was the fourth and last time conveyed into the high way, where ever since (not because weary but welcome) it is pleased to make its abode. But I remember the precept of the Apostle, nor give heed to fables; and therefore proceed to more profitable matter.

§ 18. To return to Nazareth, the nameless rivolet arising near thereunto, runneth north betwixt Dothan on the east, and Sephoris on the west. At the former Joseph was conspired against by his brethren. The cause of their hating of him (besides his Fathers loving him) was the reporting what he saw in his sleep, (dreams of his future preferment) and what he saw waking, (no dreams of his brethren's present debauchedness) who resolved to murder him. O how they saw the anguish of his soul, made visible in his bended knees, held up hands, weeping eyes, wailing words, and all to no purpose! Into the pit he is put, whilst his brethren fall a feasting: oh with what heart could they say grace, either before, or after meat, whilst it was so sad with Joseph! Stars they say are seen the clearest (even in day time) by those that are in deep pits. Surely divine providence appeared brightest to Joseph in that condition. Indeed Reuben endeavored his restitution to his Father; Judah his preservation from death; but neither being privy to others design, unwittingly countermined one another, had not God wrought all for the best. Ishmaelitish Merchants, and Midianites in their company, pass by, bearing Spices, and Balm, and myrrh to carry down into Egypt. To them Joseph is sold, of whom we take our leave for the present; not doubting in due time and place to meet him again. Mean time may those merchants be careful to carry him safe; for among all the spices they were laden with, none more fragrant and precious, then the perfume of this captives innocence. So much for Dothan, only I will add that I have placed it here, out of a peaceable compliance with the judgments of learned men, otherwise I shall not spare to manifest my private opinion on just occasion.

§ 19. On the west of this rivolet, was Sephoris, afterwards called Dio-caesarea; not to be omitted (though not mentioned in Scripture) because accounted by Josephus, the greatest City in Galilee, where the Jewish Sanhedrin for some time had its residence. Let the same Author inform you, how this City was burned by Varus, how molested by the seditious, how basely it deserted Josephus, was bravely recovered by him, plundered by his soldiers, and the spoil thereof restored again, with several passages of high concernment in the Jewish history. A little more northward, this brook falls into Jordan the less, which afterwards pays its tribute to the sea of Galilee.

§ 20. Which sea runneth Southward by Gittah-hepher, or Gath-hepher as most place it, the birth-place of Jonah the Prophet. His name in Hebrew a Dove, to which he answered rather in his speedy flight from God's service, then in any want of Gall, whereof he manifested too much in his anger without cause or measure. Jonah • therefore being born here in the heart of nether Galilee, no less untrue, then uncharitable was that assertion of the high Priests and Pharisees; Search and look, for out of Galilee cometh no Prophet. Except their words herein referred to the future, not to what was passed, and that also only in relation to the Prophet Paramount, the Messiah of Israel. More south, the sea ran by Magdala a turreted town (as the name thereof imports:) and common tradition is all the argument we have, that Mary surnamed Magdalene that eminent penitent, was so called from this place, because living (others say richly landed) therein. Into the coasts of Magdala Christ came from sea, when the Pharisees tempted him to show them a sign from heaven. In the parallel place in the Gospel of Saint Mark the same Country is called Dalmanutha; different names (it seems) for the same territory.

§ 21. Going forward on the sea side, still southward, we meet with the influx of a riyolet thereunto, fetching his fountain from the heart of the Country, near the City of Bethulia, nigh unto which was acted the atchievments of Judith against Holofernes.

§ 22. Form Bethulia the rivolet running full east, is swallowed up in the Galilean Sea, beholding the high seated City of Iotopata, some two miles distant from the inlet thereof. The stout defending of this place against the Romans, with no less wisdom, then valor, was the masterpiece of Flavius Josephus, in the behalf of his Country-men. And now having made necessary mention of his name, pardon a digression in giving a free Character of his writings, whereof, next holy writ, we have made most use in this book.

§ 23. It must be confessed that he was guilty of some inexcusable faults: namely of

• Boasting immoderately of his own birth, valor, learning, piety.
• Levity, inserting frivolous fables of the root Boras &c. And yet we will not confine natures power to our belief, concluding that impossible which we conceive improbable.
• Flattery of the Roman Emperors Vespasian and Titus, (a catching disease, wherewith the soundest Authors in that age were infected) and that so gross, that it seems not limn'd with a Pencill, but daub'd with a Trowell.

But all these may be winked at, with a charitable eye, were he not also guilty of falsity: appearing first in his faults of omission, not mentioning the Jewish Idolatry, in making the Calf, nor the disobedience of Moses their Ministerial Legislator in smiting the Rock, which Moses himself, writing of himself, thought fitting to relate. Secondly, of Cōmission, stuffing his history with improbable tales of Moses loving the Lady Tarbith &c. and some mistakes contradictory to holy writ. When we meet with any such in him relating to this present work, we have made bold (the Sun is not to be set by dials, but dials by the Sun) to alter and rectify his extravagancies according to Scripture. Notwithstanding all these faults, the main bulk of his book deserves commendation, if not admiration; no doubt at the first compiled, and since preserved by the special providence of God, to reflect much light and luster upon the Scriptures. His last book De bello Iudaico is the best Comment on that part of the twenty fourth Chapter of Saint Matthew, which concerns the destruction of the City and Temple. As for the censure of Baronius, it is too harsh and uncharitable, charging him with absurda & portentosa mendacia, seeing that it cannot appear, that Josephus willingly and wittingly made those mistakes. Wherefore such chance-medley amounts not to manslaughter, much less to willful murder; not to say, that the charitable Reader ought to be a City of refuge to such Authors, who rather unhappy, then unfaithful, fall into unvoluntary errors. In a word, historians, who have no fault are only fit to write the actions of those Princes and people, who have no miscarriages, and only an Angels pen taken from his own wing is proper to describe the story of the Church triumphant.

§ 24. We still follow the Sea shore southward, and light on the place where our Savior standing in a ship taught the people on the land in his Sermon full of parables. A Sermon not unlike the pillar of cloud and fire, which gave light to the Israelites at the red sea, but was a cloud of darkness to the Egyptians: because his preaching then obscure and parabolical to the common people, was privately expounded, and made plain unto his disciples.

§ 25. At last we are come to the City of Tiberias, so named by Herod the Tetrarch in honor of Tiberius the Roman Emperor. A populous City, and which gave the name to the neighbouring sea, thence termed the sea of Tiberias. Near to this place Christ fed five thousand men with five loaves and two fishes. Afterwards he went over the sea, but how and which way, grudge not Reader to peruse this following account given us b • a learned man, an eye-witness of the place.

§ 26.

§ 27. More southward, the sea of Tiberias leaveth the Tribe of Zebulun, and entereth into Issachar. Come we therefore now to describe the remaining places of note in this Tribe, most of them being seated on, or near the river of Kishon, whose course we will observe. It is called by Deborah, the ancient river the river Kishon. And why ancient? are not all rivers of equal antiquity, and the same seniority, seeing Gen. 1. (the Register book of the age of all creatures) they were made in the third day, when this lower globe was distinguished into earth and water ? No surely, though this be true of original and primitive rivers, many since have been of a second edition, occasioned by Noah's flood, earthquakes, eruptions of waters after long rain; not to speak of many o • thers derived by art and industry. Thus we discourse with ourselves whilst Tremellius takes away the subject of the question rendering 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , or the Ancient river, torrens occursuum, or the river of meetings. Not that many tributary rivulets met therein (a probable sense on the first sound) but (as he expounds himself) because the army of Israel there against Sisera appeared in their general Rendezvous.

§ 28. However, Kishon was a fair River, and surely the same which is termed by Ptolemy Choriaeus. Entering with a full and large stream (next to Jordan in breadth, depth, and swiftness) into the land of Zebulun, it divideth itself according to the observation of our Author (if not hypercriticall herein) into two channels, the one, and that the lesser, running east (commonly called Kadumim ) and falleth into the sea of Galilee, the other rushing northwestward, and emptieth it self into the Mediterranean. Nigh the banks of the former stands the famous mountain of Tabor, generally conceived to have been the place of Christ's transfiguration, where Moses and Elias were seen talking with him. Origen (according to his allegorising of the text ) saith that thereby was signified, the harmony betwixt the Law, the Prophets, and the Gospel, all agreeing together. But here I cannot but smile at what Breidenbachius reports (who travelled up this mountain) Ibi etiam hodie ostenduntur ruinae trium tabernaculorum secundum desiderium Petri constructorum, there (saith he) even at this day, are shown the ruins of those three tabernacles built according to Peters desire. In very good time no doubt. I confess one Scripture saith, Ask and ye shall have , but another Text answereth it, Ye ask and because ye ask amiss; and improbable it is, that God would grant the desire (or rather distempter) of Peter; and that his wish should come to him, who was not come to himself, by reason of his great fear, amazement, and ecstacy of joy. Besides, Tabernacles or Tents, being light, slight occasional structures, make small visible impressions in the earth, when set up; and leave no durable footsteps to be seen so many hundred years after. So that herein, Breiden • ach seemeth to speak (as S. Peter did in the same place) not knowing what he said. More likely it is, that there may at this day remain some ruins of Oratories erected many years since, seeing there was there a Monastery inhabited by Friers, until they being molested by the Arabians (to use my Authors expression) took their holiness away with them, and left the mountain behind them.

§ 29. The greatest stream of Kishon runneth northward thorough the midst of this Tribe, not far from the City of Naim, where Christ meeting the widows only Child, carried forth to be buried, miraculously restored him to life. Hereabouts also was the City Aijalon, where Elon Judge of Israel was buried, of whom nothing else is recorded save his name, time of his rule, ten years, and place of his interment. Slight him not because so little is reported of him, it tending much to the praise of his Policy in preventing foreign invasions, and domestic commotions, so that the land enjoyed peace; as far better then victory, as health is to be preferred before a recovery from sickness. Yea times of much doing, are times of much suffering, and many martial a • chievements are rather for the Princes honor, then the people's ease.

§ 30. From Naim the river Kishon glides by the northern skirts of mount Carmel, beholding the place where Elijah did execution on Baals Priests, on this occasion. All Israel met on mount Carmel, concluding him the true God, who answered by fire unto their sacrifices. Baals Priests being vainly clamorous in invoking their Idol, whose petitions find no answer from heaven, except the echo in the air descanting in derision on their importunate bawlings; discontented hereat they cut themselves with knives and lancers, the ready way to make blood, but not fire to come. Then enters Elijah on his work, and to prevent all suspicion of fraud, he three times caused four barrels of water to be poured on the Altar. If any here demand how they came by such plenty of water, a precious commodity after three years and six months drought, when springs, wells, and brooks were dried up: it is answered, it was fetched from the sea hard by, whose brackish water, though useless to quench the thirsts of men and beasts, was proper enough therewithal to try the present experiment. Hereupon at Elijah's prayers, fire from heaven licked up the water, and consumed the Sacrifice. The Prophet taking advantage of this juncture of time, whilst the people of Israel were possessed with an high opinion of his power and person, King Ahab stood admiring at the miracle, Baals Priests stood dispirited with guiltiness and wonder, and Iazebel their active Patroness absent at great distance, being a single man, slew four hundred and fifty of them without any resistance. Formerly their flattering hands rather acting and doing, did theatrically in superstitious formalities let out some drops of wild blood in the surface of their flesh, whereas now Elijah in true earnest, with an unpartial arm, gave vent to their heart blood by the brook Kishon, which presently carrieth both their gore, and its own water into the Mediterranean Sea.

§ 31. However though Satan then was silent, (when in credit most concerned to speak in answer to Baals Priests ) it seems he found his tongue afterwards, and here pretended to inform people of their fortune. Suetonius tells us that Vespasian in Judea took counsel from the oracle of the God CARMELUS, w ^ch foretold his good success in whatsoever he should undertake, which God we conceive was some Spirit of delusion, (though then speaking truly) having his residence in or nigh this mountain of Carmel.

§ 32. As for Carmel in general, it was so delicious a place▪ that more pleasure was hardly to be fancied, then here to be found. It consisted of high hills, (where the wicked thought in vain by hiding themselves in the height thereof, to be secured from divine justice) a fruitful vale, pleasant river of Kishom, and a goodly forest, so that the feet of Sennacherib did itch to enter it, as his fingers did long to fell the fair Cedars in Lebanon. From this Carmel, the platform of pleasure, other delightful places are so named (as copies and transcripts of this the original) yea the name is sometimes rendered appellatively for any fruitful field.

§ 33. From the top hereof we may easily discover two neighbouring towns Cain and Caiaphas, the one named from the murderer of Abel; the other from the active contriver of his death, whose blood speaketh better things then that of Abel. But neither appearing in Scripture, it is enough to name them. More northerly we behold the valley of Iiphthah-el, or river thereof, the same word in Hebrew expressing both, as indeed it is hard to find a vale, especially in winter, without a rivolet therein. And if I mistake not, the BOURNE in Wilt-shire, and the west, signifieth both the river and the dale down which it runneth. In the vale nigh the river of Iiphthah-el stood the city Zebulun, so beautifully built, saith Josephus, (let him forfeit his fingers when he measures any thing to loss which concerns his own country) that Cestius the Roman Governor who burnt it, admired the houses therein as corrivalls with those of Tyre, Zidon, and Berytus in magnificence. More southward is Cana called commonly the less, though greatened with Christ's first miracle wrought there at a marriage, turning water into wine. How many matches have been made, to which Christ was never invited guest; yea the riot and revels thereat, would fright his gracious presence from the place. Hence the rivolet runneth to Iokneam, surnamed of Carmel from the vicinity thereof; the King whereof was destroyed by Joshua, and the City afterwards bestowed upon the Levites.

§ 34. Having mentioned the Levite-cities, an importunate difficulty (whilst I hoped silently to slip by it) plucketh me back in my passage: It resulteth from the ensuing parallel.

The difficulty is double: first four Cities are mentioned in Joshua, and but two in Chronicles. Secondly, those two fall out by their different names, nothing like the four formerly assigned them.

§ 35. In solution hereof, some will say that the Levites might have six cities in Zebulun. But why should this tribe being not the biggest be most bountiful unto them? Was it because Zebuluns lot advantaged by the sea-situation thereof, was larger in worth then in view; and so the Merchant adventurers of this tribe, making gainful voyages and profitable returns, were obliged in conscience to be more liberal to the maintenance of God's Ministers? Or are two of the Levites cities left out in Chronicles (omission in such cases for reasons to us unknown is no contradiction) and the other two the same (though unlike in sound) with the two last mentioned in Joshua. Indeed I deny not, but the towns at the same time may have two names nothing alike, (Medena, aliàs Newport, in the Isle of Wight may be an instance thereof.) But for all I can find, still I languish in expectation of a better solution. Yet let not his good will be slighted, who though unable to cure the wound; (whilst Commentatours on the place suffer it to lie festering in silence) desires to wash it and keep it clean, till a more skillful hand apply an effectual plaster thereunto.

§ 36. In Solomon's division of the land into twelve purveyour-ships, Zebulun had no distinct officer over him, but belonged to the territory of Baanah the Son of Ahilud; who, besides many places he had in Manasseh, extended his Jurisdiction even beyond Iokneam. The Arms of Zebulun, confirmed unto him by custom, and Rabbinical tradition, were Argent, a ship with Maste and tackling sable. An honorable Bearing, the same with the Coat armor of Albertus free Baron of Alasco in Poland, • ave that his ship is without sails, (with this Motto, Deus dabit vela, God will send sails ) and Zebuluns accomplished with all the accoutrements thereof.

Here the Map of Issachar is to be inserted.

[illustration]

THE TRIBE OF ISSACHAR. CHAP. 7.

§ 1. ISsachar, the fifth Son which Jacob begat on Leah his wife, had his posterity so increased in Egypt, that from thence came forth of this Tribe fifty four thousand and four hundred. All which falling in the wilderness, for their frequent tempting of God, their Sons grew (Judah and Dan excepted) more numerous then any other Tribe, insomuch that sixty four thousand and three hundred, of twenty years old and upward, appeared at their second solemn muster in the plains of Moab. Tolah the Judge was of this Tribe; Baasha and Elah Kings of Israel fair Abishag the Shunamite, wife (or rather bed-fellow) to aged David; with another Lady (if in beauty, not in goodness her inferior) of the same city, who so kindly entertained the Prophet Elisha.

§ 2. Issachar had the sea on the west, Jordan on the east; Zebulun on the north, Manasseh on the south. A fair fruitful country; for, as all Canaan is called the pleasant land: so it is particularly observed of Issachar’s portion, he saw the land that it was pleasant, and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute. This Tribe better acquitted itself in the Subsidy, then in the Muster-book, they were the best Yeomantry of Israel, towards the advancing of ra • es and taxes. They loved rest, and a sedentary life. Blame them not, if sensible of the goodness of their soil, they were loath to leave home, because certain to remove to their loss, and are compared to an Ass couching between two burdens.

§ 3. Yet were not the men of Issachar of such servile natures, but that they could be valiant, when just occasion was offered them. They were as willing, and resolute as any other, in helping Barak in the battle against Sisera. Yet even then we may observe, they marched not far from their own habitations, the field being fought in the bowels of their country. And well might his Ass, find both heels and teeth, to kick and bite such, as offer to take his Hay from his rack and Provender a way from his manger.

§ 4. Nor let the resembling of Issachar to an Ass; depress this Tribe too low in our estimation. The strength of his back, not stupidity of his head, gave the occasion thereunto 〈◊〉 in one point of excellent skill, this Tribe surpassed all others, being men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do. Now seeing time Ianus -like hath two faces, one looking backward [Chronology] the other forward [Prognostication] the question will be, in which of these lay the learning of the Issacharites? A learned man conceives them only like husbandmen, weather-wise by their own rural observations. Sure more is imported in that expression, and not only Almanac, but Chronicle-skill contained therein; so that from deductions from former, they could make directions for the future times. Oh for a little of Issachar’s art in our age, to make us understand these intricate and perplexed times, and to teach us to know what we ought to do, to be safe with a good conscience. So much of the persons in this Tribe; come we now to survey the eminent places contained therein.

§ 5. In the south confines thereof stood the regal city of Jezreel. For though the valley of Jezreel belonged to Manasseh, the city itself must pertain to Issachar, otherwise the sixteen cities assigned him Josh. 19. will fall short of that number. In Jezreel Ahab had a Princely Palace (haply the joynter-house of Jezebel ) besides a garden-house adjoining; and here in the city lived Naboth, as hard by lay his vineyard, which Ahab could not obtain from him, either by purchase or exchange.

§ 6. Some will find more equity in Ahab's offers, then discretion in Naboth's refusal. But, blame him not, if loath to offend his God, to accommodate his King. Being (no doubt) in his conscience persuaded that his earthly possession, was the earnest of his heavenly inheritance, and that his parting with the former, voided his title to the latter. Besides, his vineyard (six hundred years since the partition of the land by lot) had pertained to his ancestors (probably) moe ages, then Ahab's new erected palace had belonged years to his family.

§ 7. On the denial Ahab falls sullen-sick. No meat will down with him for lack of a salad, because wanting Naboth's vineyard for a garden of herbs, till Jezebel undertook the business. A letter is made up of her brains, her husbands hand and seal to the Elders of Jezreel, enjoining them to set up two men of Belial, to accuse Naboth of blasphemy against God, and the King. She took it for granted, plenty of such persons were to be found in so populous, and vicious a place. Oh the ancient order of Knight of the post, for money to depose any falsehood. Hereupon Naboth is stoned to death, and his Sons also, flatly contrary to God's command, which in this case had provided, The children shall not be put to death for their fathers, but every man shall be put to death for his own sin. But this was don • , to clear all claims, and prevent all pretenders of ti • les unto the inheritance.

§ 8. Thu • Naboth's vineyard was for Ahab's use turned into a garden of • erbes. Surely the bitter wormwood of Divine revenge grew plenti •• lly there • n. Fo • in the same place his Son Joram, and gran-child Ahaz • ah had a martial interview with Jehu, and were both worsted by him. Here Jehu with a shot out of a bow (archery fatal both to Ahab and his Son) wounded Jehoram to the heart, and by special order to Bidkar • Captain, commanded that his corps should be cast into the field of Naboth the Iezr •• lite. Oh the exact Topography observed in divine justice! so accurate is God, not only in the time, but place of his punishment.

§ 9. Greater is the difficulty about the death of King Ahaziah slain about the same time. For, whereas it is appointed for all men once, he seemed twice to die, and that in far distant places.

But all is reconciled, if we take Samaria, not for the city so named, but for the whole kingdom of Israel, in which notion Ahab is styled King of Samaria, that is, the ten Tribes, whereof Samaria was the Metropolis. In this acception, Megiddo, and all the passage thereunto was in Samaria, where Ahaziah hoped in vain, by his flight to hide, and conceal himself.

§ 10. All thus agreed concerning the dea • h, I hope no difference will arise about the burial of Ahaziah. Though in one tex • his ow • servants, in another Jehu his men are said to bu • y him. The one might do it by the leave and license of the other, and Jehu his soldiers did deliver Ahaziah's de • d corps to his own servants, to interre it in Jerusalem.

§ 11. Jezebel survived not long after. As Jehu was entering Jezreel, she (newly painted) entertains him with a taunt out of the window, to try whether her tongue, or his sword were the sharper. We meet but with three principal speeches of her in Scripture; the first an Idolatrous oath and curse, The God's do so to me, and more also: the next, a mortal threat, and loud lie, If I make not Elijah's, like one of their lives by tomorrow this time: the last an impudent and unseasonable jeer, Had Zimri peace that slew his Master? Presently she is thrown down headlong, and the dogs eat her up to the • eversion of her skull, palms of her hands, and feet. What, h • d the poison of her painting, 〈◊〉 deeply pierced into these the naked parts of her body, that the dogs were afraid to feed o • them? However it came to pass, Iezebels skull may be worn as a deaths-head in the memories of all wicked persons, abusing their power, to mind them of their certain ruin, without serious repentance. The heads also of Ahab's children killed in Samaria, were laid in two heaps at the entrance of the gates of Jezreel.

§ 12. It may seem strange, that seeing Jehu was warranted by commission from heaven, in the execution of Ahab's family, and friends, that God should afterwards threaten by his Prophet, I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu. But it seems, though herein Jehu his chariot went in the path of God's command, yet he did drive it on furiously, the pace of his own cruelty, vainglory, and ambition. Thus, that officer is a murderer, though acting the sentence of the Judge, if withal he pleaseth his private malice, in executing persons condemned to die. The matter of Jehu his act was rewarded, the manner revenged by God.

§ 13. The river Kishon runneth through the midst of this Tribe, which entering in at Naboth's vineyard, taketh his course north-ward with a winding channel, not far from Shamir in mount Ephraim, wherein Tola the Judge, or rather, the Justice of peace in Israel (nothing of war being achieved in his government) both dwelt, and was buried. Hence on his western bank, Kishon beholds the place, where Barak fought that famous battle against Sisera. It is recorded to the commendation of such Israelites, as assisted him, that they took no gain of money. Indeed they of Zebulun were by their calling such as handled the pen, though now turned sword-men, in case of necessity. And when men of peaceable professions, are, on a pinch of extremity for a short time, forced to fight, they ought not, like soldiers of fortune, to make a tradeto enrich themselves thereby, seeing defense of religion, life, and liberty, are the only wages they seek for in their service.

§ 14. In this most eminent battle, the Stars in their courses fought against Sisera. What, are the numerous people of Israel meant thereby, whom God promised to multiply as the Stars in heaven? or, are only the principal officers in their Army intended therein? Sure, it is safest to embrace the literal sense, that those celestial lights, frowning with their malignant aspects, caused frights and fears in the hearts of the Canaanites. Such, as utterly deny all influences of Stars on men's minds, show therein, that the moon hath made too much impression on their crazy judgments, and lunatic opinions.

§ 15. But, the river of Kishon was not only a spectatour of this fight, but also an actour of a principal part therein: For, when the Canaanites routed in the battle, essayed to wade this river, so to recover their country on the other side, the stream thereof, probably lately made more deep, and rapid with extraordinary rain (the largess of some wa • ry Planet which fought for Israel ) swept them away. So that what fragments of these Canaanites, were left by the Israelites swords glutted with slaughter, Kishon was the voider to take them clean away.

§ 16. Hence Kishon runneth on by Kishion (the vicinity of the name is argument enough, to place it on the banks of this river) elsewhere called Kedesh, being one of the four cities in this Tribe, belonging to the Levites Gershonites. More east whereof lay another of the same nature, Engannim, called Ienine at this day, being now a very pleasant place, having fine gardens, orchards, and waters about it, as it hath its Hebrew name from a fountain. And that we may know, that the country hereabouts, still retaineth more then the ruins of its former fertility, a judicious modern traveler tells us, that in his whole journey from Damascus to Jerusalem, he saw not more fruitful ground, and so much together, then he did in two and twenty miles riding, betwixt mount Tabor and Engannim.

§ 17. Hence Kishon continuing his course northward, leaveth the city Shunem at some distance from his western bank, the birth-place of Abishag, wife-nurse to King David, to procure heat to his decayed age. Time was, when he boasted, that his youth was renewed as the eagles, but eagles (notwithstanding the often casting of their bills, and years therewith) are at last seised on with age, and death, as it fared then with decrepit David. Adonijah, David's Son, afterwards lost his life, for petitioning to have this Abishag for his wife. What was his fault? Incest, or treason? Surely, neither effected, no, nor attempted in any clandestine way, without leave from the King. Let it suffice, Solomon saw more, then we, in this matter; his eyes also not wanting the magnifying-glass of State-jealousy, to improve his discoveries herein. But, this accident was only the hilt or handle, for Solomon to take hold on; Adonijah's former fault was the edge, to cut off his life. Thus, let those, who once have been desperately sick of a Princes displeasure, and recovered, know, that the least relapse will prove deadly unto them.

§ 18. In Shunem dwelt that worthy woman, who prevailed with her husband, to harbor Elisha in his passage this way. God's Prophets are no lumber, but the most profitable stuff wherewith an house can be furnished. Landlords prove no losers by such Tenants, (though sitting rent-free) whose dwelling with them, pays for their dwelling with them. At Elisha's prayer God made this woman (barren before) the happy mother of an hopeful Son. Somes years after, this child grown a stripling, and going into his Fathers field to see his reapers, was there smitten with a deadly sickness. So that the corn on the land might pass for the emblem of this child's condition, save that that being ripe, and ready wooed the cycles to cut it, whilst this green grain was mow'n down in the blade thereof. At noon the child died. Had one the same morning beheld the Sun arising out of the east, and this child coming forth of his fathers house in perfect health, he would not have suspected, that the noon of the one would prove the night to the other. But by the prayers of Elisha he was restored again unto her.

§ 19. This Shunamite was afterwards seven years absent, in the land of the Philistines, during which time, the profits of her estate, as appears by the text, ^x were seised on by the Kings officers. Custom (it seems) intitled the Crown to their revenues, which resided not on their lands, especially (if living as she did) in the land of a foreign foe. She addressed herself by petition to King Joram, for restitution of her means. Formerly she had no use of the Prophets profer, to speak for her to the King, or to the Captain of the host, who now was fain to prefer her suit in her own person. None know what hereafter may befall them. Such, whose young feet were only taught to traverse their own ground, may in their old age be learnt a harder lesson, to trudge abroad in attendance to others. Gehazi happily there present, attests her the woman whose Son was restored to life, and by the Kings command, her lands and profits were restored to he. Let her, under God, thank Elisha for this favor; for, that place in her house, where his bed, table, stool, and candlestick stood, kept possession for her in her absence, of all the rest of her Demesnes, and procured the speedy restitution thereof.

§ 20. To return to Kishon, which somewhat more northward leaveth this Tribe, and entereth into Zebulun, having first divided itself into two streams, whereof the easternmost (being the north-boundary of Issachar ) runneth by Tabor, a city so called, from the vicinity of the mountain we formerly described. Hereabouts Zebah and Zalmunna, made a massacre of many Princelike Israelites, for which fact Gideon ordered their execution. And here we take notice of two neighbouring mountains lovingly agreeing together.

• 1 Tabor on the north (whereof formerly in Zebulun ) of so eminent note, that it passed for a proverbial expression, of any unquestioned certainty, As sure as▪ Tabor is among the mountains. This place was in after ages much profaned with Idolatry, as appears by the Prophet complaining of the priests, that they had been a net spread upon Tabor.
• 2 Hermon, hard by on the south of this Tribe (the top-cliffe whereof is called Hermonium as a modern Traveler doth describe. David puts them both together, The north and the south thou hast • reated them, Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name.

However others understand the Psalmist of another Hermon, that famous mountain formerly described in Manasseh beyond Jordan, being the east-border, as Tabor was in the heart of the land of Canaan; meaning thereby, that, middle, and marches; outside, and in-side; center, and circumference; all the whole world must rejoice in God's power which made; and providence, which preserveth them.

§ 21. This east-stream of Kishon, in modern Maps called Kedummim, runneth to Daberah in the confines of Zebulun, but belongeth to this Tribe, out of which it was assigned a city for the Levites. Then falleth it into the sea of Cinnereth, or Tiberias, somewhat south of Tarichea a famous city, whereof frequent mention in Josephus, but none in Scripture, to which we chiefly confine our description.

§ 22. The east part of Issachar is wholly taken up with the mountains of Gilboa, where the Armies of the Isra • lites, and the Philistines met, having formerly measured most part of this Tribe, with their military motions. The Philistines marching first from Shunem to Aphek; thence to Jezreel, (backward and forward to find an advantageous place for fight) thence to mount Gilboa, where they encountered, and conquered the Israelites in battle. Saul being here grievously wounded, desired his Armor-bearer to slay him, who refused it, as bearing his Arms for the defense, not destruction of his Master. Hereupon Saul slew himself, and his Armor-bearer followed his example. Both which, having since cast up their▪ Audit, can tell, what is gotten by the prodigal thrift of throwing away ones life, to prevent the losing thereof. Then a fourfold division was made of what remained of Saul. His head sent into the land of the Philistines; body hung up upon the walls of Bethshean; Armor offered in the Temple of Ashtaroth; Crown, and bracelets brought by the Amalekite to King David. For though his tongue spake lies, his hands told truth, presenting the very regalia of King Saul. Wonder not, that Saul should wear these ornaments in battle, where an helmet had been more proper then a Crown; seeing we read in our English Chronicles, that in Bosworth -fight King Richards Crown-ornamentall was found among the spoils in the field, and then, and there set by the Lord Stanley on the head of King Henry the seventh.

§ 23. David, on this dysaster of Saul's death, cursed Mount Gilboa, Let there be no dew or rain upon you. But, Brochardus travelling over them Anno Dom. 1283. found, and felt both, being well wetted in his journey. What! were David's words guilty of infidelity, seeing it is easier to withhold rain from a mountain, then to remove it from its foundation, and cast it into the sea? and yet our Savior assures us this shall be done, if in faith desired. But, be it known, David intended not his curse should take effect, but merely to manifest his great grief, and to show, how far he was from delighting at the death of his greatest enemy. Better to fall under David's Dirae, as he was a Poet, then as he was a Prophet, the latter lighting heavily indeed, as Judas in Achitophel could witness the weight thereof. Nor remaineth anything more observable in this Tribe, save in the east part thereof, on Jordan they show Pilgrims the place where Naaman (patient at last by his servants persuasion) washed seven times, and was cleansed of his Leprosy.

§ 24. Thus all the remarkable places of Issachar, but not all those in Issachar, are already by us described. For, (as the text expressly saith) the Tribe of Manasseh had in Issachar, and in Asher, even three Countries; that is, lying in Issachar, and Asher, but environed round with those Tribes possessions, yet pertaining to the portion of Manasseh. Let none blame Divine Providence of ill Architecture, for not well contriving the rooms in the house of Israel; the division of the land by lot, not being well designed, wherein Issachar’s Chamber [his portion] was made a thorough-fare, Manasseh having three closets [three small countries] within the same. So that neither Tribe could enjoy his own with privacy, and entireness; and Manasseh (if but stepping out of the high-way) must in a manner trespass on Issachar, or crave leave of him, to come, through his, to his own inheritance. But know, all was ordered by the counsel of God's will, for reasons best known to himself; who would not have his children Churls, to ingross habitations by themselves; but, by such mixture of their portions, invited, yea, engaged their persons to mutual intercourse, seeing the very lots of their Tribes gave loving visits, and their Countries (by God's own appointment) came so courteously, and confidently, one within another.

§ 25. But very hard it is to conceive, how Manasseh could have any land within Asher, which Tribe lay many miles more northward, and beyond the Tribe of Zebulun interposed. The Jewish Rabbins being much perplexed at the Pedegree of A • zel, why it is twice reckoned up in Chronicles, use to say, that they need four hundred Camels loaden with Commentaries to give the true reason thereof. But their expression is more appliable to this present difficulty, how Manasseh could have any ground in Asher, except (as we have presented it in our Map) some part of Asher lay southward at distance, dis-jointed from the main body of that Tribe, which we have formerly described. Who knows not that pieces of Parishes, parcels of Manors, portions of Counties, though far off dismembered, relate unto them, notwithstanding the intermediate distance betwixt them?

§ 26. But let not Issachar, or Asher repine, that Manasseh had so much land in their Countries, seeing though the right was assigned unto them, the Canaanites for a long time (till about David's reign) kept all the same in their possession, as will appear by the ensuing parallel.

Of Bethshean more conveniently hereafter. By Ibleam, Ahaziah was wounded, as was formerly observed. Dor (mentioned for a sea-town in Ptolemy ) had the King thereof conquered by Joshua. Endor, whither Sisera's soldiers defeated in fight, not far off at Taanach, (which also • was a regal city in the days of Joshua, and afterwards belonged to the Levites) fled, were pursued, perished and became as the dung of the earth. Hither Saul repaired to a witch, to raise Samuel, and received cold comfort from the dead, or Devil rather, informing him of his future destruction: so that Saul, formerly sick with fear of the worst, lived to hear Satan toll his passing-bell in his sad predictions.

§ 27. But Megiddo was the most eminent City Manasseh had in Issachar. The King hereof was destroyed by Joshua, and many years after Josiah was slain in the vale of Megiddo, bidding Pharaoh Necho battle, in his march against Charchemish by Euphrates. Never Prince shown more devotion in his life, or less discretion in his death, courting that danger which declined him, seeing Pharaoh desired peaceably to depart. But haply Josiah conceived himself engaged to fight him, in point of

• 1 Honor; because without leave he had made his land an high way to pass through it.
• 2 Policy; suspicious, though Pharaoh went forth as a friend, he would return as a foe, especially if puffed up with success in his expedition.

But what shall we say? it was the sin of his subjects would not suffer Josiah to keep quiet at home. Their impieties made him to march, thrust him into the field, forced him into the fight, yea, shot the fatal arrow, which wounded him at the heart.

§ 28. Now let none be troubled, because Josiah (who rather deserved two lives) seems to have two deaths, one text making him to die at Megiddo, another at Jerusalem. Understand it, death arrested him with a mortal wound at Megiddo, but did not imprison him till he came to Jerusalem, where he expired. Much less let any challenge God, as worse then his word with Josiah, having promised him by his Prophet to be gathered to his Fathers in peace; for besides that that promise principally related to the captivity of Babylon (from which Josiah was exempted) even such may be said to die in peace, which swim to their graves in their own blood, if withal embarked in a good conscience.

§ 29. All Israel, and principally the Prophet Jeremiah, dropped many a precious tear on his hearse, whose Lamentations are an Elegy on Josiah's death; yea, their grief was no land-flood of present passion, but a constant channel of continued sorrow, streaming from an annual fountain, it being made an Ordinance in Israel. The Prophet speaking of a grand, and general grieving for men's sins, compareth it to the mourning of Hadadrimmon (conceived to be a place hard by) in the valley of Megiddon.

§ 30. Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah was Solomon's purvey our in Issachar, but the dis-jointed piece of Manasseh in this Tribe pertained partly to Baanah the son of Ahilud (to whom belongeth Taanach; Megiddo, and all Bethsh • an ) and partly to Aminada • husband to Taphath Solomon's daughter, purveyour alone in the land of Dor. An argument of the great fertility of that little land, because the land of Dor alone, was a sign for a whole month in the Zodiac of Solomon's yearly provisions. An Ass (formerly observed) argent, in a field vert, was Issachar's Arms, cou • hing between two burdens. Some by these understand Zebulun, and Manasseh, which bounded Issachar on both sides. But, why was their neighbourhood more burdensome, then any other Tribes? Such perchance, are nearer the truth, who expound the two burdens, Tribute and Tillage; betwixt which, Issachar, quietly cocuhed, never meddling with wars, but when forced thereunto in his own defense.

Here the Map of Manasseh on this side Jordan is to be inserted.

[illustration]

THE DESCRIPTION OF MANASSEH on this side IORDAN. CHAP. 8.

§ 1. MAnasseh his numbers and worthies have formerly been described on the east of Jordan, as also such Cities as being environed with Issachar, yet belonged to this Tribe. It remaineth that we survey that portion of Manasseh west of Jordan, lying entire in itself, and having Issachar on the north, Ephraim on the south, the Mediterranean Sea on the west, and Jordan on the east thereof, a fruitful Country divided betwixt six male-families of the Manassites, and the five daughters of Zelophehad.

§ 2. These were those Virgins, who pleading before Moses, got a right to, before Joshua got possession of their inheritance. Silence was enjoined their Sex in the Church, not Court, where they handled their own cause so well, it is pity any Counsel should be retained for them. Nor was it the worst part of their Rhetoric, the good Character they gave their dead Father, which might serve for an Epitaph to be inscribed on his monument.

Meaning he died a natural death for his personal offenses, and was no sharer in the guilt of Rebellion against God in Moses. This instance of Zelophehad his coheirs, let Lawyers judge how justly it is alleged of some against their practice, who by entailes on the Heir male, dam up inheritances from running in that general channel into which God and nature hath derived them.

§ 3. In the west of this Tribe on the sea, we meet with Cesarea Stratonis, built and beautified (with a fair haven called Drusus ) by Herod the great in the honor of Augustus Caesar. Amongst other edifices therein, Herod's judgment hall by him built was a most remarkable structure. Indeed all Cesarea might be termed God's judgment hall, from an exemplary piece of justice here executed on Herod Antipas. Who coming hither from Jerusalem clad with gorgeous raiment, (and the guilt of Saint James his blood) made an eloquent oration, more gaudy then his apparel, unto the people, who cried out in approbation thereof, The voice of a God, and not of a man: here Herod instead of rejoining The voice of lying flatterers, and not of sober men; instead of reclaiming what they exclaimed, embraced and hugged their praises as proper to himself, and thereupon an Angel and worms, the best and basest of creatures, met in his punishment, the one smiting, the other eating him up: and no wonder if Worms quickly devoured him, whom those flesh-flies had blown up before. If any ask, seeing the people were equally guilty in that their sacrilegious expression, (yea they were the thieves, Herod but the receiver ) why fell not the pun • shment also on the whole multitude? It is answered, First, because they were the whole multitude; and God in such cases mercifully singles out some singall offenders for punishment to save but fright the rest. Secondly, more discretion was expected from a Prince, then from a rabble of people. Lastly, what in them was but a blasphemous complement, was by Herod's acceptance thereof made in him a reality, usurped by him as due to his deserts.

§ 4. But leaving profane Herod, many pious people lived in Cesarea, as Cornelius the Centurion, the first fruits of the Gentiles; Agabus the Prophet, foretelling Saint Paul's bonds and Martyrdom; and Philip the Evangelist, famous for his four daughters Virgins-prophetesses. This I firmly believe, whilst my faith demurs at what I read of Brechin a Lord in Wales, who had four and twenty daughters all Saints begotten of his own body.

§ 5. Here Saint Paul eloquently defended his innocence, against the salable tongue of Tertullus, and afterwards reasoned of righteousness, temperance and judgment, before Felix the corrupt, vicious and debauched Deputy of Judea, till Felix, (his foundered feet feeling the Pincers) began to winch and to prefer Saint Paul's room before his company. In the same place the Apostle pleaded for himself before Festus, Agrippa and Bernice his incestuous wife-sister, entering into the place of hearing, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , with much fancifulness, or great pomp. Perchance this Bernice ware then about her, that eminent Gem, whereof the Heathen Poet took especial notice.

But be Bernice never so brave, the bonds of Saint Paul, (worn by him then in Cesarea ) were in the Judgment of God, and all good men the most glorious ornament.

§ 6. South of Cesarea stood Antipatris, named in the honor of Antipater father to Herod the great. Hi • her Saint Paul came guarded in state by night with more then five hundred soldiers, and hence the footmen were sent back to Jerusalem whilst the seventy horse advanced forward with him to Cesarea. South of Antipatris the river Kanah (which divideth this Tribe from Ephraim ) runneth into the sea, so called from reeds KANAH in Hebrew, (whence our English Canes or walking-staves fetch in both the name and thing from the east Countries) growing plentifully thereabouts, and many Maps present us with a valley of Reeds in this place. Say not this debaseth the land, that so course a commodity should take up a whole valley therein, (for besides as London water-men will tell you, an acre of reeds on the bank side is as beneficial as one of wheat) these Canes were to make arrows and staves, yea some to make Sugars thereof: an eye-witness affirming that plenty of sugar-canes grow in Palestine at this day. Surely formerly growing there, (though little known to▪ and less used by the ancients) seeing that Country hath gained no new plants, but rather lost much fertility it had before.

§ 7. Sugar (pardon a digression) was anciently less used, either because their masculine palates were not so liquorish as ours now adays; or because they preferred honey, plenty whereof was extracted and refined to their hand. Yea our modern Sugar, as it is boiled and baked, is not above two hundred years old; and the art of refining it was found out long since by a Venetian, getting above an hundred thousand crowns thereby, leaving them to his son afterward made a Knight, who wasted all to nothing.

§ 8. In the north of this Tribe lies the vale of Iesreel and Well of Herod, where Gideon conquered the Midianites • ncamping by the hill of Moreh. Indeed the achievements of Gideon take up almost this whole half-tribe, and therefore we will attend on him from his call to be a Judge unto his summons to his Grave.

§ 9. Sad in his time was the condition of the Israelites, oppressed by the Midianites, who swarmed like Grass-hoppers, for number and noisomeness, over the land of Canaan: Grass-hoppers were formerly a Plague for Egypt, but now for Israel, these Midianites devouring all which the other had sown. Time was, when the Israelites reaped the fields they did not sow, whereas now they sowed what they did not reap. See what woeful inversions sin can make. In this doleful estate the Angel found Israel, when he sat under an oak in Ophrah in the east of this Tribe near Jordan, and saluted Gideon threshing by the winepress, The Lord is with thee, thou valiant man. Much concealed valor may lurk under a plain & painful outside, whcih a just occasion may produce into public view. Yet let none turn their flailes, aker-staves, sheep-hooks, shuttles, needles, into swords, till first with Gideon they have a warrant from God for the same. Gideon having thus a cal from God, and confirmed with many miracles, first by night cast down the Altar (erecting one to God in the same place) and cut down the grove of Baal, then gathered an army of thirty two thousand therewithal to fight the Midianites.

§ 10. But his army must be garbled, as too great for God to give victory thereby: all the fearful return home by Proclamation, leaving the Perons, not the Men in the army, fewer for their departure. The good liquor was no less for the loss of such froath, though two and twenty thousand then went away. Yea the body of his men remaining, was still too big, and must pass another decoction. Their valor, hardiness and industry must be tried by a Purgatory of water, and those only were admitted to march on, (proving but three hundred) who bowed not down on their knees, in a lazy posture, (as if they meant to make a set meal • in drinking) but loath to lose so much time, doglike lapped water out of their hands, (their dishes, as their tongues, were their spoons,) manifesting thereby, (quick at meat, quick at work ) the activity of their spirits, taking all refreshing, only in passage to their farther employment.

§ 11. With these three hundred Gideon advanceth against the Midianites, and (as formerly by the deeds of his friends) is now confirmed afresh with the dreams of his foes, and their own interpretation thereof. Strange that God should condescend so much, and so often for Gideon's satisfaction, working miracles backward and forward for his sake: fleece only wet, and ground dry, fleece only dry, and ground wet. Heavens real miracles, will endure turning, being lining, and facing, inside and outside both alike. Yea after these and other confirmations, God the night before the battle gave Gideon a new sign out of his enemies own mouth. He that spurneth at the presumptuous, how low will he stoop to take up a weak but true faith! Thus the wise mother beateth the sound and froward, but bemoaneth and cherisheth her sick and froward child.

§ 12. The Midianites lay secure in their tents when the word was given, The sword of God and Gideon. Excellent mixture, both joined together; admirable method God put in the first place; Where divine blessing leads up the Van, and man's valor brings up the battle, must not victory needs follow in the rear? Gideon's men by order from him brake their lamp-lined pitchers, whereby night is turned into light, silence becomes a loud sound in an instant. We have this treasure in earthen vessels, and what miracles may the light of God's word in the pitchers of poor preachers bring to pass?

§ 13. The sudden shining and sounding fills the eyes and ears of the Midianites with amazement. Whence came these spirits walking in the dark, dropt from heaven, or raised from the earth? The text was terrible, but oh what dis • all descants did their affrighted fancies make thereon? Every man's fear, single in it self, was doubled by reflection from his next neighbor. For, hearing so many Trumpets, together, if so many Trumpeters, then how many soldiers in proportion unto them? Hereupon the host ran, and cried, and fled to Bethshittah in Zererah, and to the borders of Abel-meholah, unto Tabbath. Thus, great Armies, once struck with amazement, are like wounded whales, give them but line enough, and the fishes will be the fishermen to catch themselves, and beat themselves • ame by their own violence.

§ 14. Hereafter let none term Gideon (as Ulysses is disgracefully called) Nocturne miles, the night Knight, because he conversed with the Angel, cast down Baals Altar, conquered the Midianites, all by night; seeing now in open light he pursued his conquest, chasing Zebah and Zalmunna with the rest of their Army, home to their own Country, where he overtook and destroyed them. Mean time the Ephraimites were active in stopping the passages on Jordan, and slew Oreb and Zeeb, the one at a rock, the other at a wine-press, first coloured with their blood, then called after their names to all posterity.

§ 15. What remains of Gideon, I would willingly conceal, that his Sun might not set in a cloud. But, man must not smother, what God will have seen, especially because tending to his honor, our instruction, though Gideon's disgrace. Who, refusing a Crown, accepted the earrings of the people, and thereof made an Ephod: surely only as a civil memorial of his valor, and their thankfulness. But, what had Gideon a Manassite, to do with an Ephod, a Levitical vestment? Such a monument was neither of divine institution, or benediction, and therefore through man's corruption, easily subject to be abused to superstition. If Gideon walks but on the brink, the next generation will fall to the bottom of Idolatry, as here it came to pass. Posterity went a whoring after this Ephod, which caused the massacre in, and destruction of the f • mily of Gideon, whom we leave buried in Ophrah in the grave of his father Joash, and so proceed.

§ 16. And now his history finished, we shall soon dispatch the remainder of this half Tribe. First we resume Abel-meholah (lately mentioned) which was the habitation in after ages of Elisha. Here he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth. What in several teames, or all in the same, to draw one plough? The latter is most likely, whilst our English husbandmen will not wonder at such an herd of oxen, (twenty four) haling at one plough, when they shall read, that the Vale of Jordan (wherein lay Abel-meholah ) is noted for clay ground, and therefore such stiff land, (especially at the first tilth thereof) must needs require a great strength thereunto. But had his oxen been as many more Elisha would willingly have left them, when Elijah his man • le was once cast upon him. Mo •• le, which could, stop rivers in the full speed of their course, and therefore might stay a man in the height of his calling. Hereby we perceive that the words of our Savior, No • an having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God, are not literally, but spiritu • lly, to be expounded, of such as having well begun, apostate from their religious Resolutions.

§ 17. In the aforesaid vale of Jordan lay Zarthan, betwixt which and S • ccoth (on the other side of Jordan in the Tribe of Gad ) the two brazen pillars, (Iachin, and Boaz ) with all the vessels of the Temple, were made by Hiram, of bright brass, in the clay ground, which probable served him for moldes to run the melted metal therein. And somewhat more towards the north, lay Aenon near to Salim, where John was baptizing, because there was much water there. Here his Disciples complained to John, concerning Jesus eclipsing him with his luster. John truly stated the controversy, and modestly determined it against himself, how he must decrease, whilst Christ must increase.

§ 18. As these places lay on the east of this Tribe, in the vale of Jordan. so in the western part thereof in the vale of Jezreel, lay Gath-Rimmon (in Chronicles called Bileam ) the sole City which the Levites had in this entire part of the Tribe of Manasseh; seeing Taanach (called Anar in Chronicles) lay (as is aforesaid) in that part of Manasseh which was surrounded with Issachar. The land of Tappuah belonged also to this half Tribe, though Tappuah the City pertained to Ephraim. Thus the town, and late Castle of Belvoir stands in Lincoln -shire, though the vale thence denominated lies in three shires round about it.

§ 19. Amongst the mountains in Manasseh, we take especial notice of Gilead (so called from Gilead the grand son of Manasseh ) whence Gideon's cowards departed; the hill Moreh, nigh which the Midtanitish Army was encamped; and above all the mountain of Obadiah, so called because therein in two caves he hid an hundred Prophets, so close, that neither foes nor friends knew thereof, neither Jezebel nor Elijah getting intelligence of their being there, the latter erroneously conceiving himself alone left of all the Prophets in the land. Their bill of fare was bread and water, precious liquor when it had not rained in Israel for three years and an half; hereto our Savior reflected, that none should lose his reward that gave his little ones a cup of cold water, yea, that such who received a Prophet, should receive a Prophets reward, as here it came to pass. For the sparks of his guests spirit catched hold on Obadiah their host, so far inflaming his breast with inspiration that the short prophecy bearing his name, is by learned men referred to him, as the Author thereof. Saint Jerome tells us, that the Lady Paula (as weak as she was) climbed up this mountain, to behold those monimental caves therein.

§ 20. In this land we also meet with the woody hills of the Perizzites, and of the Rephaims, or Giants, mingled amongst them, much affright • ng the Manassites with their Iron chariots. Not as if all made of massy iron▪ (such would have been slugs in fight, and so heavy, that they needed horses of steel for strength to draw them) but that they were plated and armed with iron hooks, mischievous instruments of execution, especially in the pursuit of a broken army, men being as grass whereof whole swathes were mowed down with these crooked sithes in chasing a routed enemy. Enough almost to make one suspect our ancient Britones akin to these Canaanites, seeing such chariots were so fashionable in their fights; were it not that we find the like 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , frequently used in all eastern Countries. However Joshua gave the Manassites both a promise and prophecy, that (notwithstanding those Ironmoving forts of the Canaanites ) they should in process of time certainly overcome them.

§ 21. We must not forget Beths • n belonging to M • nasseh (but seated and environed with Issach • r ) whence for a long time they could not expel the Canaanites, therefore called it Bethsan, that is, the house of an Enemy. Here the bodies of Saul and Jonathan were hung up by the Philistines Bethsan was afterwards called Nysa by human writers (and at last Scythopolis ) from Nysa Bacchus his nurse, whom he is said there solemnly to have buried. A jolly dame no doubt, as appears by the well battling of the plump boy her nursery. But seeing wine was Bacchus his milk when a child, meat when a man, food when well, physic when sick, we may justly conceive the history mythologically true, the burying of Bacchus his nurse in this place plainly importing plenty of the best wines in the Country hereabouts.

§ 22. As for Bezek I name it last of all▪ because ambiguously placed in the confines of Manasseh, and Ephraim, different from a City of the same name, nearer Jerusalem, where the Tyrant Adonibezek lived. In this Bezek saul numbered the Israelites (being three hundred and thirty thousand) and thence marched to the relieving of L • besh-Gilead from the Ammonites. The Arms of Manasseh have been formerly blazoned, and expounded in our Description of the half Tribe beyond Jordan, and in the Solomon's Purveyourships this land, with some of Zebulun, fell under the care of Baanah the Son of Ahilud.

Here the Map of the Land of Ephraim is to be inserted.

[illustration]

THE TRIBE OF EPHRAIM. CHAP. 9.

§ 1. EPhraim the younger Son of Ios • ph was blest by his grandfather Jacob, laying his right hand on his head (the print of whose fingers remained visible in the happiness of Ephraim's posterity) that behind Manasseh in age, he should prove before him in honor; which came to pass accordingly. Such was his increase in Egypt that they amounted to forty thousand five hundred men, all whose carcasses fell in the wilderness, and a new generation of thirty two thousand five hundred entered the land of Promise.

§. 2. A Princely and puissant Tribe. Ephraim (saith David) is the strength of my head, and is often put by a honorable Synecdoche for all the ten Tribes or whole Kingdom of Israel. The people thereof were active, valiant, ambitious of honor, but withal hasty, humorous, hard to be pleased, forward enough to fight with their foes, and too forward to fall out with their friends, counting other men's honor to be their injury, except they might be admitted joint purchasers with them in all gallant undertakings. This caused their contest, first with Gideon, who pacified them with his compliance, & afterwards with Jephthah, where their Braul was hightned into a Battle, (how quickly do hot spirits hatch words into blows!) of which we have spoked before.

§ 3. This Tribe was subject to a natural imperfection of lisping, the cause whereof we leave to others to dispute, whether got by imitation, or some heredit •• y defect in their tongue, or proceeding from some secret quality in their soil, as it is observed in a village at Charleton in Leicestershire, that the people therein are troubled with wharling in their utterance. The best is, men must answer to God for their vicious habits, not natural impediments, and better it is to lispe the language of Canaan; then plainly to pronounce the speech of Ashdod.

§ 4. Sure I am, no Tribe, Judah excepted, can vie eminent persons with Ephraim, as Deborah and Abdon, both Judges of Israel, the one by he • habitation whilst living, the other by his sepulcher when dead, truly collected to be of this Tribe, as also Jeroboam and all the Kings of Israel 〈…〉

§ 5. 〈…〉 Dan on the south, 〈…〉 But as for the particular 〈◊〉 and flexures 〈…〉 borders of this Tribe, they are so many, and so small, they will be scattered out of our memories, except bound together as, we find them in the text.

§ 6. Condemn not this our diligence for needless curiosity, but know, that every mere-stone that standeth for a land-mark, though in substance but a hard flint, or plain pebble, is a precious stone in virtue, and is cordial against dangerous controversies between party and party, and therefore it is of great consequence to be well skilled in the out-limits and boundaries of this, or any other considerable 〈◊〉 .

§ 7. The particular bounds therefore of this Tribe 〈◊〉 exactly as followeth.

§ 8. Amongst these limitary towns, besides the B • th-horons, both of them with Uzzen-Sherah, founded by Sherah the daughter of Ephraim the younger (the greatest Buildress in the whole Bible) Gezer is most remarkable. The King 〈◊〉 was 〈◊〉 by Joshua • , and the City was given to the Levites, but kept by the Canaanites in defiance of all the powers of Ephraim, until Pharaoh taking it, burning it, and killing the Canaanites therein gave it for a present to his daughter Solomon's wife. Behold here two titles on foot at once, and the question is which should take effect. Whether the title of the Levites deriving it from God's grant, though (a main matter) they never had the possession of Gezer given them, or that of Pharaohs daughter claiming it as a donative from her father. The best is, the cause was to be tried before the wisdom and integrity of Solomon, who no doubt, being so bountiful to the Temple, would not be injurious to the Ministers thereof, but that as he gave the child to the true mother, he would ad • udge the City to the original owners thereof, though making his Queen some reparation otherwise. Proceed we now to the description of this Tribe, and will begin with two eminent Cities in the south part thereof.

§ 9. Rama, otherwise Ramathaim-Zophim (because consisting of two towns, and seated in the land of Zuph ) was the place, where Samuel was born wonderfully, of a long barren mother, lived unblamably, (as appears by the national testimony of his integrity) died peaceably, and was buried honorably. Naioth nere Rama was the name of his house, where David sometime conversed with Samuel, two eminent Prophets then living together under the same roof.

§ 10. Yea, the very air of this place seems prophetical, seeing Saul coming hither to attach David, was by the great well that is in S • chu (the Helicon of heavenly raptures) strangely inspired, and stripping himself, fell a prophesying a day and a night together.

§ 11. This Saul continued constantly a carnal man, though we meet with many spirits, which successively possessed, and deserted him, 1. The spirit of prophecy, which twice ravished, then finally forsook him. 2. The Spirit of the Lord, fitting him for government, which departed from him after David was anointed. 3. An evil spirit which troubled him, partly allayed by David's music. 4. His vital and animal Spirits, which partially forsook him at the witches sad news, when he fell all along on the earth, and there was no strength in him. 5. His spirit, or soul, finally forced from him by his own sword on mount Gilboa. What need then have men to try the Spirits before they trust them, seeing so many of them may be in one and the same person?

§ 12. In the New Testament this Rama is called Arimathe • , whereof was Joseph that honorable counselor, who so freely resigned his own sepulcher to the body of our Savior, and with Nicodemus provided for the decent interring thereof.

§ 13. Shiloh succeeds (in a narrow southern spong of this Tribe) where after the conquering of Canaan, the Tabernacle was solemnly set up, and remained there almost four hundred years. This place was for that purpose preferred before others, partly because almost the center of the land, and partly in honorable respect to Joshua, extracted from, and living in this Tribe of Ephraim; and pity it was that God and the Prince should be parted. Perchance the allusion of Shiloh with Shiloah, or Siloam, (which is by interpretation sent, clearly pointing at our Savior) might promote this place for the erection of the Tabernacle therein.

§ 14. At Shiloh there was an anniversary dancing of the daughters thereof (probably collected out of all Israel coming then to the Tabernacle) where the Benjamites as yet unprovided for wives, lying in ambush in the vineyards, violently seised some of those maids for their brides, (happy man be his dole) making strange matches, if each interest concerned therein be seriously considered.

§ 15. First for the Fathers of these virgins. Did this equivocating expedient satisfy their consciences, who had formerly sworn not to give their daughters to the Benjamites to wife, and yet now by laying the design themselves did in effect give these women in marriage to these men?

§ 16. Secondly, for the young men. What assurance had they, they could love, not choosing the fittest whom they liked of, but catching the first they lighted on? Or that they could be beloved, storming their wives with violence, instead of taking their affections by mutual composition?

§ 17. As for these Brides of fortune, may we not presume that many of them which danced this day, wept on the morrow? Yet one thing might comfort them, they were all richly married to mighty matches of landed men, seeing the fair and fruitful Tribe of Benjamin, with all the Cities therein was to be shared amongst their six hundred husbands alone, as the sole survivers and absolute heirs of the whole Country.

§ 18. In Shiloh Eli lived Priest, and Judge of Israel, whither Elkanah and Hannah, Samuel's parents, repaired to God's public worship. This Hannah though silent when twi • ted by Peninnah for barrenness, found her tongue when here taxed by Eli of drunkenness: because a mere sufferer in the former, but in the latter a sinner, had the accusation been true. Samuel (here prayed for) afterward here served God in a linen Ephod, and though generally there was a dearth of visions in this age, here he had many revealed unto him. But Eli's dim eyes connived here at his sons impieties. Whose servant with his Trident (an Innovation, no doubt, and none of the utensils made by Moses according to the pattern of the mount ) would have raw flesh for his Master; so that, what between the raw flesh here sacrilegiously stolen, and the strange flesh wherewith those Priests abused themselves at the door of the Tabernacle of the congregation, any pious ears would now tingle to hear their faults, as hereafter at their punishment.

§ 19. For soon after happned the destruction of Hophni and Phinehas, (slain in battle) the Arkes captivity, Eli's heart-breaking with the news, neck-breaking with his fall, the death of Phinehas his wife newly delivered, whose son got the sad name (not of Benoni, a name calculated for private pangs, but) of Ichabod from this sorrowful accident, because born in this grand eclipse when the glory was departed from Israel.

§ 20. Yea the very city of Shiloh itself, may seem in some sort to expire on the same occasion, which, as it owed its life and luster to the Tabernacles residence therein, so sinks down in silence at the captivity thereof. For we find no after mention of any eminent act therein, only that Ahijah the Prophet long after lived there. He was the Jewish Tiresias, though blind, a Seer, who discerning Jereboam's wife through her disguise, foretold the death of her sick son Abijah. So much of Shiloh; proceed we now to the more northern and mountainous part of this Tribe.

§ 21. Amongst the remarkable places in mount Ephraim, we find Timnath Serah, or Timnath Heres (by inversion of the letters) on the northside of the hill Gaash, where when they had made an end of dividing the land, the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua. See here his public spirit, not improving his power, though Comānder in chief, to pickout the fattest pastures, fairest meadows, fertilest fields for himself, but (as if he counted it possession enough for him to have gained possessions for others) when the meanest man was first served, he was contented to stand to the people's courtesy, what they would bestow upon him. If it sound to the praise of a Generalls valor, to come last out of the field when it is won, no less is the commendation of his temperance to come last into it when it is divided. In Timnath Serah, asked and built by him, Joshua afterwards was buried; and as Saint Jerome reports that in his time the Sun was depicted on his monument. This I dare boldly say, that whereas modern Heralds blazon arms by the specious titles of Planets, their fancy is with most truth appliable to Joshua's shield, bearing Sol and Luna indeed, having made both Sun and Moon stand still by his pr • yers. Also Eleazar the High priest was buried in mount Ephraim, in an hill which pertained to Phinehas his son.

§ 22. Tirzah was another city near mount Eph • aim, whose King was conquered by Joshua. In the days of Solomon it was a place of great repute, Thou art beautiful, ô my Love, as Tirzah; comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners. Jeroboam chose it to be his Royal-seat (perchance because near Zereda his native place) where he and his successors lived for well nigh sixty years. Indeed Baasha had a project to make Ramah the place of his residence, as nearer to Jerusalem, and therefore more convenient to mark the motions of the Kings of Judah; but frustrated of his design he was fain to return to Tirzah, reigned and was buried here. Elah, Baasha's son, was here drinking in the house of Azzah his steward, when a dear reckoning was brought in, and no less then his life extorted from him by Zimri his successor. Afterwards, when Tirzah was taken, Zimri either out of envy that the royal Palace should survive him, or desire to prevent a more shameful death, burnt himself, and the Kings house together. We read of King Asa, that after his death, his subjects made a very great burning for him; but Zimri exceeded, making a bone-fire for and of himself when alive; herein standing alone, except seconded by Sardanapalus, who in like manner destroyed himself on the same occasion. Thus died Zimri, a King only for a week, whose Reign like a winters day was short and dirty; yet long enough to leave this taunt for Iezebels mouth, and Proverb to posterity, Had Zimri peace, that slew his Master? Hard by is Tiphsaph, where King Menahem barbarously ripped up the women with child, because the city opened not to receive him.

§ 23. Besides cities, many private dwellings were sprinkled on mount Ephraim; as the house of that Levite, whose concubine the men of Gibeah abused to death: the house of Micah, well stored with Idols, where first the five spies, then the six hundred men of Dan, took up their lodgings, when marching to Laish: Ungratefull guests! who instead of discharging their quarters, plundered their Land-lord, taking his Images and priest away with them. Thirdly, the house of Deborah under a Palme-tree betwixt Ramah and Bethel, where she judged Israel. A tree then the Westminster Hall of the whole Land, made the seat of justice in an open place, partly that all people might have free access with their Petitions thereunto, without doors or porters to exclude any; partly that so public a place might mind Judges, parties, and witnesses of fair and clear proceeding without secret or sinister reservations, having heaven God's Throne in view, and before their eyes. This Palme was preferred for this purpose before other trees, because far and fair spreading, it afforded much people a shady conveniency under the branches thereof; not to insist on (a text rather for fancy to descant, then judgment to comment on) the resemblances betwixt the growth of Palms and judicial proceedings. Which, as that plant improves itself by pressures, ought in fine to flourish in defiance of all opposition.

§ 24. But the most observable place in the north of this Tribe is the City of Samaria, built by Omri, (because the royal Palace was burnt at Tirzah, as is aforesaid) on an hill bought by him for two talents of silver, and called by him Samaria, from Shemer the former owner of that place. Strange, it should take the denomination rather from him that sold it, then him that bought it: except this was part of the bargain, which appears not in Scripture. Sure we are, though the name of Omri was not preserved in the place, the Statutes of Omri were observed by the people, according to the Prophets complaint, and his impious injunctions obliged men to the practice thereof. Samaria proved afterwards a beautiful City, & was the principal place of the residence & burial of the Kings of Israel.

§ 25. Stately was the Kings Palace therein. Hence King Ahaziah Ahab's son had a mortal fall through a lattice in his upper chamber: possible this mischance had been prevented, had the house or chamber been built according to God's direction, with batlements, that men might not fall from thence. But likely it is, the Fabric thereof was fashioned according to the Mode of the Sidonian architecture. Hard by Ahab built an Ivory-house. Conceive it chequered, inlaid, and adorned therewith; otherwise all the Elephants in India and Afric would not afford materials for such a structure: not to say, the crookedness and smallness of their teeth, made them useless for beams in that building. A frequent Synecdoche, to denominate the house from the principal materials therein, like Leaden-hall in London; not because wholly built, but only covered with that metal. But alas, what good would an Ivory-house do Ahab, whilst he had an Ebony soul in the midst thereof, blacked over with impieties. Baals temple built by Ahab, and turned by Jehu into a Iakes, was a structure of great State, into which Baals Priests were trained by a device, and slain. The greatest place of receipt in Samaria (which might serve them for a market-stead, or rather for a seat of Justice) was that void place at the entering of the gate; of such a latitude, that it was able to receive at once the Kings of Israel and Judah, with their royal retinue.

§ 26. But amongst all the structures in Samaria, none more eminent then the streets built therein by the King of Syria. A thing scarce to be paralleled, that a foreign King should be permitted to erect streets in the Metropolitan City of another Kingdom. If any allege that Peter Earl of Savoy built his palace in the Strand (known by the name of Savoy at this day) and that there is a street betwixt Aldersgate and Smithfield called Britons street, from the ancient lodgings of the Duke of Britain therein; neither of the instances amount to the matter in hand. The former palace being erected, as I take it, for the Earls abode here when in banishment. And as for the latter, it appears not that the Dukes of Britain were at any cost in building it: whereas the Kings of Syria founded the Fabrickes of those streets in the city of Samaria, and never inhabited therein. It seems when Omri began the new building of Samaria, either he requested the assistance of the King of Syria (as a neighbouring Prince in amity with him) to help him in the work; (no shame to beg the first clouts of friends, for an infant-city) or else the Syrian Kings civilly tendered their service, to give it as good handsell to so good a work, or as a Royal Largess amongst the inferior builders thereof. For mine own part I conceive that the Kings of Damascus, got some conquest of Samaria not mentioned in Scripture, and then built these streets, as a monument of their victory and bridle to over-awe the city. The rather because Benhadad being afterwards overcome by Ahab proffered the like favor and freedom unto him, if it pleased him to accept thereof, And thou shalt make streets for thee in Damascus, as my Father made in Samaria.

§ 27. We meet in Scripture with three famous sieges of Samaria. Once when Benhadad not content with Ahab's submission, (proffering to hold all he had by homage from him) would have all the wealth of the city in specie surrendered unto him, vainly vaunting that the dust of Samaria could not suffice for handfulls for all the people that followed him. Surely the Scavengers were very diligent in sweeping so populous a place, or else it was a most hyperbolical expression. But grant Samaria could not yield dust enough to fill the hands, the mountains near unto it could afford dirt enough to stop the mouths of most of his army, who few days after were thereon miraculously defeated.

§ 28. A second siege was in the reign of King Joram, when the famine was so great, that an Asses head, and a cab of dung was sold at unconscionable rates: the former for food, the latter most probably for fuel, and surely not to drain peter to make powder thence, an invention unknown in that age. Nor was the sudden plenty, occasioned by the Syrians flight, less admirable, all provision being brought down in an instant to a very unexpected low price. So that he that here knew beforehand what would be cheap or dear, needed but a few minutes to make him a rich Merchant. But this shower of plenty caused a flood of people to flock to the gates of Samaria, where that infidel Prince, who despaired of God's power and Elisha's prophecy, was overwhelmed in the multitude; living so long to have his eyes confute his tongue, but not to have his taste confirm his eyes; beholding, but not partaking of the plenty.

§ 29. The third and last siege when the city was taken and destroyed by Shalmaneser King of Assyria, in the reign of Hosea King of Israel, a King who was the best, or rather the least bad of all that sat on that throne. Of whom it is said, he was evil in the sight of the Lord, but not as the Kings of Israel, that were before him. It may therefore seem wonderful that the ruin of the kingdom should happen in his reign: but what shall we say? When a vessel is already brimfull, the addition of the least drop more, will make it run over.

§ 30. Afterwards Samaria was peopled with Colonies of the Assyrians; great back friends to the rebuilding of Jerusalem, as the books of Ezra and Nehemiah do sufficiently declare. Our Savior therefore gave in charge to the disciples, when sent to preach, Into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not. But this was but a temporary prohibition, for after Christ's ascension and the persecution about Steven, Samaria quickly received the Gospel by the preaching of Philip the Evangelist. Here afterwards happened the great contest betwixt the two Simon's, Peter and Magus. The latter proffering money to buy the gift of bestowing the holy Ghost. But leaving them we may observe God's gradation in giving his holy Spirit. First, to those that were purely Jews in Jerusalem; Then to such as were partly Jews in Samaria; Lastly, to such as were purely Gentiles in Cesarea, where Cornelius was baptized.

§ 31. Near Samaria was a fountain to wash, and house to sheare the sheep. Nigh to which in the rode to Jezreel, Jehu met two and forty men coming on a visit of respect, to salute the late slain sons of the King of Israel. Wherefore because the persons they came to wait on were not in this world, Jehu took order to send them all to the grave, that they might be more perfectly informed how it fared with those, whom they came to salute. Hard by is the Lazar-house, wherein lived those Lepers, who being bandied betwixt two deaths of the famine and the sword, preferred to put themselves on sudden and doubtful, rather then on slow but certain destruction; and first brought to Samaria the tidings of the Syrians tents left empty of men, and full of provision.

§ 32. We must not forget the people near Samaria, wherein Ahab's chariot was washed, though some difference appears betwixt the prediction and performance thereof.

The difficulty is this; the dogs licked the blood of Ahab at Samaria whereas Naboth was stoned at Jezreel, twenty miles and more northward. To reconcile which difference, Rabbi Solomon conceives that though Ahab's chariot was washed at Samaria, his armor was washed at Jezreel, where (saith he) the royal armory was kept. Others fancy an out-let of the pool of Samaria in the river Kison, which many miles off glided by the vineyard of Naboth, so that his blood might be carried thither down the stream. Lastly, it is generally answered, that those words, In the place, are not to be taken restrictively for the same numerical spot of ground, but extensively for the same Land, country, and kingdom, which then was fulfilled according to the Prophets prediction. Not to say, that some understand, In the place where the dogs licked, that is, pro eo quod, instead, in lieu, or in requital of thy cruelty, dogs shall lick thy blood, &c. Nor have I ought else to observe of Samaria, save that Herod called the name thereof Sebaste from a fair Temple erected here, in the honor of Augustus Caesar.

§ 33. Hard by, are Ebal and Gerizim, twin-mountains of equal height, on which, in the days of Joshua, after the conquest of the land, the people of Israel, according to God's command, assembled themselves, with their women, little ones, and strangers, in manner and method following,

On mount Gerizim to bless.
• 1 Simeon.
• 2 Levi.
• 3 Judah.
• 4 Issachar.
• 5 Joseph.
• 6 Benjamin.

On mount Ebal to curse.
• 1 Reuben.
• 2 Gad.
• 3 Asher.
• 4 Zebulun.
• 5 Dan.
• 6 Naphtali.

See we here, both the Royal and Sacerdotal tribes (Judah and Levi ) on the blessing side; all cursings and imprecations (save when of absolute necessity) ill becoming the mouths of Magistrates and Ministers. In this action, the Levites appeared in a double capacity; as public officers, so they spake to the men of Israel with a loud voice; and as private persons, so they contributed their Amen, with the rest of the people.

§ 34. Here it will be demanded, seeing the sides of this Choir were so far asunder, how could the Levites voices be distinctly heard from one mountain to another, especially if the whole city of Shechem (as the