A Pisgah-Sight of Palestine

Here the Map of DAN is to be inserted.

[illustration]

〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉

THE TRIBE OF DAN. CHAP. 10.

§ 1. DAN was eldest Son of Jacob by Bilhah Rachel's maid and his concubine. Of his body but one, [Hushim] went down into Egypt, yet of his Posterity came forth thence no fewer then threescore and two thousand and seven hundred males of twenty years old and upwards: all which falling in the wilderness, for their faithlesness in God's promises, threescore and four thousand and four hundred entered the land of Canaan.

§ 2. There passeth a general tradition taken up by some Fathers, continued by some middle, to modern Popish writers, that the Antichrist should descend of the Tribe of Dan. And why conceive (or conceit they rather) so uncharitably of this Tribe? Confess we, that Dan hears ill, on several occasions in the Scripture.

• 1 Dan, Father of this Tribe, had a foul mouth, which made Joseph bring in a complaint thereof to Jacob.
• 2 The first personal blasphemy recorded amongst the Israelites was committed by a Mongrell Danite, being the son of Shelomith, for which he was stoned.
• 3 The first tribuall defection to idolatry Dan was guilty of, publicly setting up and worshipping a graven Image.
• 4 A moity of the national apostasy of the Idolatrous Jews was solemnly acted on the theater of this Tribe, one of Jereboam's golden calves being set up at Dan.
• 5 When twelve thousand of God's sealed ones are reckoned up out of every Tribe , Dan is omitted, as consigned to malediction, say some: as formerly in the first of Chronicles, no mention of Dan, where the genealogies of all other Tribes are recounted.

The reader may judge whether these roots be deep enough to bring and bear the branches of so far spread report, that therefore the Man of sin must derive his pedigree from this Tribe. Little probability of Antichrist coming from Dan literal (long since carried captive with the rest of his brethren into Africa ) but as for Dan mystical many have sought, and many conceive they have found him in another and nearer place. But leaving the uncertainties of Antichrist, most sure it is, that Samson, one of the liveliest types of Christ, was descended of Dan. And so was Aholiab that excellent artist: who was joint master of the fabric of the Tabernacle: as Hiram also in the work of the Temple, was a Danite on the mothers side.

§ 3. The land allotted to Dan, seems, for the most part, first to fall to the share of Judah at the partition of the Country. And because the bounds of Judah were too great, the surplusage thereof by a new grant was made over to the Danites. Some will wonder, that God, who divided Manna so equally, a homer for every man, should part the land so unevenly, that one Tribe should leave and another lack: so that the thirst of Simeon and Dan was quenched with those few drops, which overflowed out of the cup of Judah. May such remember, Judah was the Princely Tribe, out of which Messiah was to arise, and his portion cut out in state; leaving the superfluous reversions thereof to others; may typify Christ himself, who is anointed with oil of gladness above his fellows: of whose fullness (not only of sufficiency and abundance, but even of redundance) we have all received, grace for grace. Nor will the reader be moved when he finds some cities ensuing, sometimes mentioned as belonging to Judah, other whiles to Dan: because to the former by original assignation, and to the latter by actual possession.

§ 4. This Country was bounded with Ephraim on the north, Judah on the east, Simeon on the south, and the Mid-land-sea on the west. From above Lydda to the brook Soreck, some thirty miles; and little less east and west, from the sea to the edge of Judah. A land at the best, but half Judah's leavings, and that not entirely possessed of the Danites. For herein the Amorites did both cut and choose for themselves, reserving the fat and flesh thereof, (all the fruitful valley) for their own use, whilst the Danites were glad to pick the bones, crowded up into the mountains. Besides, three of the Satrapies of the Philistines, are found in this Tribe; A puissant nation, and at deadly fewd with the people of Israel. This put the Danites on the necessity (men over-pent will some way vent themselves) of seeking new Quarters, in that their memorable expedition, whereof formerly in Naphtali. If any ask, why they did not endeavor the enlargement of their bounds at home against the Amorites and Philistines, before a far adventure, an hundred miles off. Let such know, the design was conceived easier, suddenly to surprise the secure Leshemites, pursy with long peace, then to undertake those two warlike nations, well breathed daily in military Discipline: And sudden surprises were foretold in this Tribe.

§ 5. But grant the measure in this Tribe but short, the ware thereof was very fine, the Country being passing fruitful in commodities. Herein grew that bunch of Grapes of prodigious greatness, in gathering whereof, by the hand of the spies sent to search the Land, the Israelites took Livery and Seisin of the fruits of the Country. Besides, this Tribe did drive some sea-trade (Deborah complains, Why did Dan remain in ships? ) though the Jews generally were mean Mariners and Merchants. Partly because the fatness of their soil so stuck by their sides, it unactived them for foreign adventures: and natures bounty unto them gave their industry a Writ of ease to sit at home. And partly because, being divided (as an Island from the Continent of the World) in Religion from other Countries, it cut off their comfortable commerce with other nations: though since their woeful Posterity have proved the Capemerchants of the world.

§ 6. First to survey the west side on the sea, therein we are accosted with Joppa, a strong City, seated on an high rock, so that Strabo reports, that Jerusalem may thence be discovered: which a modern Traveler concludes impossible. At the bottom thereof a haven [formerly] most convenient. So ancient a place, that some make it first founded, and so named from Japheth before the flood. But it is utterly improbable that Noah being himself busied about building an Ark, which threatened the worlds destruction, would suffer his son to erect a City, as promising a fixed habitation. Hither all the timber of the Temple, cut down and carved in mount Lebanon, was brought by the Tyrians in floates, and hence by Carts conveyed to Jerusalem. Hither Jonah fled, and took shipping for Tarshish , conceived by some to be the Country of Silicia; by others the city Tarsus therein. But be it Sea or Land, Country or City, sure it was not Nineveh, whither God had sent him. Here charitable Dorcas which made coats and garments for the poor widows whilst she was with them, (the lanthorn of men's good deeds cast the best light, when carried before them, and done in their life time) lived, died, and was revived by Saint Peter. Here he lodged in the house of Simon a Tanner by the seaside, water we know is very necessary in that occupation (though salt water only useful to wash raw hides) and therein beheld that vision, wherein the Epitome of all creatures were in a sheet represented unto him. Of this great City, at this day only two old towers do survive, it being questionable, whether the place be more ruinous, or the poor Moors more ragged, that dwell therein. A bad haven, much obstructed with sands, and exposed to the fury of the north wind. The best commendation of this harbor is, that Jury had no better, scarce another, as if God condemned the seacoasts thereof to danger, as the Continent to barrenness.

§ 7. Near unto Joppa is Lydda (some six miles North-west) where Peter cured En • as (truly pious ) of the palsy, which eight years had afflicted him. Here Saint George is reported to have been beheaded, and his tomb is shown in this place. All I will add is (I hope without offense) this ensuing Parallel,

In Joppa.	In Lydda.
The valor of Perseus is celebrated for freeing Andromeda daughter to King Cepheus, tied with chains to the rocks, from the fury of a sea monster to which she was exposed.	The puissance of Saint George is remembered for delivering the nameless and only daughter of a certain King of Libya, from a fiery Dragon, to whom she was tendered by lot, to be devoured.

It is pity these two stories should be parted asunder, which will both in full latitude be believed together. Hard to say, whether nearer, the two places, or two reports. He that considers the resemblance of their complexions, will conclude, Fancy the father, Credulity the mother of both; though we need not presently reject all the story of Saint George for fictitious for some improbable circumstances appendent thereunto. Nor have I ought else to observe of Lydda, save that in Saint Jerome's time it was called Diospolis.

§ 8. To return to Joppa, the port of Jerusalem. And let us a little way accompany the Pilgrims in the road thitherwards. Take the character of the Country on the credit of a late eye-witness: A most pleasant plain yielding Tyme and Hyssop, and other fragrant herbs without tillage or planting, growing so high, that they came to the knees of our Asses. Nor need any wonder at the stature of this ground Hyssop in Jury (different from wall-Hyssop or moss rather, the last and lowest step of natures storehouse, and Solomon's study) seeing good Authors have affirmed, that haec planta in Iudaeâ arborescit, hyssop doth tree it in Judea. And what is called by Matthew and Mark Calamus, a reed, cane, or spear, is rendered an Hyssop-stalk by Saint John. Because as a learned man concludes, Hyssop here sprouted so high, that thereof an instrument might be made to lift up the sponge to our Savior's mouth hanging on the Cross. And thus we see that as always one of Job's messengers escaped, to bring the sad tidings of their fellows destruction; so even at this day, some straggling valleys in Palestine, have made hard shift by their own fruitfulness still continuing) to inform the world, how plentiful this Country was, before barrenness by God's appointment, seised on the generality thereof.

§ 9. To proceed in the road to Jerusalem (as the best guide to direct us in the survey of the north of this Tribe) It passeth not far from Shaal • im a City of Dan, but in the confines of Ephraim. Where though the Amorites dwelt in despite of the Danites, yet the Tribe of Ephraim made them tributaries. A little further, this highway takes its farewell of the Tribe of Dan, but with full intent shortly to visit it again. For having passed over a corner of Ephraim, which baggeth into the south, it returns into Dan, and goes forward by Modin, the City of Mattathias and his sons, where the seven sepulchers of the Maccabees (each a high Pyramid on a square basis, and all mounted on a steep hill) are a conspicuous sea-mark to the Mariners many miles distant. Charitable monuments, which being erected for the honor of the dead, are employed for the safety of the living! Few miles hence this high-way finally leaves this Tribe. And therefore we leave it, only wishing the passengers therein a prosperous journey to Jerusalem. That such as go thither about business may dispatch the same to their own contentment; such as travel out of curiosity may have their expectation so satisfied, as to countervail all their pains and charges: and such as go thither out of superstitious opinion to merit, may have their erroneous judgments better rectified and informed.

§ 10. Nor doth ought else observable offer itself in this corner of the Tribe, save Aijalon, (where Joshua's prayer arrested the Moon to stand still) assigned by God to the Levites. But the Amorites took the boldness to keep possession thereof. Hear the words of the Scripture, And the Amorites forced the children of Dan into the mountains: for they would not suffer them to come down into the valley, but the Amorites would dwell in mount Herez, in Aijalon, and in Shaalbim. The genuine sense is, that though the Amorites generally pent the Danites up in the mountains; yet in these three places (though mountainous in their situation) they crossed their common custom; not out of necessity, but design, as sensible of their own profit that these transcended the valleys in fertility, and therefore placed themselves therein. Let others dispute, how it came to pass, that the Priests, whom God intended men of peace, by their profession, had a controversiall City appointed them, encumbered with enemies so that they must win it before they could wear it. As also how the Levites could live, when the Land allotted them, was sequestered in the hand of a foreign foe. It will be for enough us to observe, that in all ages the Church being imbarked in the same bottom with the State ran an equal hazard therein, according to her proportion. And when the whole Tribe of Dan, like the Parish in general, was straitened in its processions, well might the Priests maintenance be abated accordingly.

§ 11. We go back now to Joppa, where standing on the rocks, an indifferent fight may easily discern those ships, into which the heathen people of Joppa, with much courtesy, but more craft, invited the Jews with their wives and their children to go aboard: for they made them pay their lives the freight for their voyage, willfully drowning two hundred of them. Whose blood Maccabeus revenged with a contrary, but as cruel an Element, burning all their ships in their harbor, with such as were found therein. Hard by is Iamnia, a little haven (which may be rendered Seaton in English) whose mischievous intention against the Jews, Maccabeus punished by burning their town by night. Which bone-fire was beheld, two hundred and forty furlongs off, as far as Jerusalem. A thing not incredible, that fire itself should be seen so far, by the light whereof other things in darkness are discovered, especially when mounted high on its throne, with the advantage of pitch, cordage, and other navall and combustible matter. Some do conceive that this Iamnia is the same with Iabneh, the wall whereof was broken down by Uzziah the puissant King of Judah.

§ 12. Hence the sea running southward provides itself to entertain a nameless brook: which Mercator calls Naphtoah, and others (making signs, as unable to speak the true name thereof) the brook of the land of the Philistines, because otherwhiles the northern boundary of their dominion. We had rather give it no name, then a nick-name. And because the course thereof affords us conveniency to visit the middle parts of this Tribe, we will accept of his courtesy, and follow the guidance thereof.

§ 13. This brook hath its birth and infancy in the Tribe of Judah, whence flowing into Dan, he runneth through the desert of Modin, which is full of rocks, and those of holes, and those [once] of men, flying out of the neighbouring Cities from the persecution of the Pagans. Herein a thousand of them were slain by the fury of their enemies, or rather by the fondness of their own superstition, refusing to make resistance on the Sabbath day. A sad accident. But the parent of a good event, because putting the surviving Jews in a posture of defense, and teaching them more wise and valiant resolutions. Yea not long after, hereabouts they obtained a victory over the numerous army of Cendebaeus. Nor will any slight this brook as inconsiderable, when they read how it ran in the midst betwixt the armies of the Jews and Pagans, and was so deep, that the hardiest of the former durst not adventure to wade it, before first encouraged by the example of their General. Except any will say, they did not so much fear the depth of the river, as the height of the banks of the other side, to wit, the puissant army of their enemies.

§ 14. Going further on the river, we come into the Country of Makats, that is (as learned Tremellius well observeth) the border or boundary (if you please, the Marches ) betwixt this Tribe and their professed enemies the Philistines. It is impossible to define the limits thereof, seeing the Country was the constant Cock-pit of war: and the ground thereof, sometimes marched forward, sometimes retreated backward, according to the variety of martial success. Great is the difference betwixt the same sea, at high and low water mark: and so this Country must needs be much disproportioned to it self, when extended in a full tide, and when contracted in a low ebb of success.

§ 15. In this Country of Makats Bethshemesh was a principal City, belonging to the Levites, and reputed part of Judah, but (except some Labell of land tacked to Judah ) surrounded about with the Tribe of Dan. A case obvious in the dividing of Countries. Who knows not how Worcester-shire hath speckled all the adjacent Counties with snips and shreds belonging unto it, though environed with other shires, and that at considerable distance? Hither the kine drawing the Cart, and lowing as they went to their Calves at home, (nature in them was not rooted out, but overruled) brought the Ark, and rested it near a great stone in the field of Joshua a Bethshemite. At what▪ time the Bethshemites were reaping their harvest in the valley. Instantly at so good news, their Sicles lost their edges, and could cut no more corn that day. The Ark-home is to be preferred before Harvest-home. But oh! how hard is it to keep hungry eyes from feeding on forbidden objects! All the Bethshemites were Levites, but not Priests, much less high-Priests: to whom alone (and that only anniversary) the survey of those mysteries did belong. Besides at this time Bethshemesh from a City, was enlarged to be a Country: (such the confluence of Israelites from all places) Otherwise no back of one City might seem broad enough for so great a rode, whereby fifty thousand and threescore and ten men were destroyed by the Plague, for their Curiosity, in prying into the Ark.

§ 16. Gibbethon is another prime place in Makats: allotted by God to the Levites of Kohath, and no doubt by them peaceably possessed for many years, seeing nothing to the contrary doth appear. But after the days of Jeroboam it is said to belong to the Philistines. Probably, when the Levites loyal both to God and their King, upon the idolatrous defection of Israel, willingly deserted their own Cities, the Philistines taking advantage thereof (when much good blood is let out, bad humors are nimble to supply the place) seised on this City. To recover the same, Nadab the son of Jeroboam besieged it: but was so far from taking the City, that before it he lost his own life, by the treachery of Baasha conspiring against him. This siege continued more then twenty years, (no doubt with intervalls of cessation) for here Om • i a great Commander was in service, when by the soldiery voted King of Israel. After which election he had not so much mind to take the City, as a Crown, vigorously to prosecute his new title, and to suppress Tib •• his Corrivall. So much of the siege, but nothing of the taking of Gibbethon, so that it was still violently possessed by the Philistines.

§ 17. The south-east part of this Tribe is still to survey. Where the brook Zorek creeps faintly out of the Tribe of Judah. Not far from whose banks we light on Zorah and Eshtaol: two twin-cities, the one seldom mentioned in Scripture without the other. Except one will call them man and wife: because Machaneh-Dan (betwixt Zorah and Eshtaol ) was joint issue of them both. For when six hundred men out of these two cities marched towards the taking of Leshem, here they met (probably by mutual agreement the most convenient place betwixt them) behind (that is, west) of Kiriath-jearim. These did call this the first place of their station Machaneh-Dan; and the last Dan (both from Dan their Ancestour) without naming any intermediate places. As in all undertaking, the first motion which founds and the last which finisheth it, are most memorable. It seems that afterwards, a town was built in that place, where their tents were pitched, as a fortunate ground handselled with good success, where Samson seems to have had his education.

§ 18. But his birth at Zorah. Where he was the son of a long barren mother (a regiment in Scripture of such eminent Persons, Isaac, Jacob, Samuel, Samson, John the Baptist &c. ) as if (besides higher causes) nature had long thriftily reserved her utmost strength, to expend it at last with more credit. Here an Angel appearing to Manoah's wife, both told her that she should be a mother, and taught her how she should be a nurse; with the ceremonious breeding of her son. No Wine must come in, no razor on him. Hercules the Pagan-Samson in some sort may seem, by the luxury of Poets wits, to ape this Jewish Hercules. Neither of them otherwise mounted, then on their legs: otherwise defensively armed, then with their skin and clothes. A • awe-bone a sword to the one, a Club, to the other. Both of them very like for their valor, and too like for their wantonness, women being the destruction of them both.

§ 19. But as Samsons luster did rise, so it did set in this Tribe. Hereabouts born and buried in the grave of his Father Manoah, betwixt Zorah and Eshtaol. Reader, let me invite thee with me solemnly to behold his sepulcher, that therein both of us may bury all our vain thoughts of eternity here. He that hereafter shall presume on his own might as immortal, hath not strong • brains, but a weak •• back then Samson.

§ 20. To go back to 〈◊〉 , which now grows confident and bold with the accession of the brook 〈◊〉 , so named (as the vine in Hampshire ) from bunches of grapes there growing, whereof one was the load for two men. Surely Bac • hus • id not so drown Ceres in this Country, nor did God the wise master of the feast, entertain the Jews his daily guests, with suc • liquid diet, but that we may justly presume the land afforded bread and meat in a plentiful proportion to their wine. But when the spies brought this home to the camp of the Israelites at Kadeshbarnea, they like • the wine, but not the reckoning which was to be paid for it▪ not so pleased with the bigness of the grapes, as frighted at the bulks of the Giants.

§ 21. Nor is there any other considerable City remaining in this Tribe, save Tim • ah, where Judah sheared his sheep, and at Pethah-enaim (or the opening of the ways ) committed incest with Tamar his unknown daughter-in-law, whom after wards he commanded to be brought forth and burnt. Thus easier i • • s for one to cause another to be consumed to ashes, then to quench the least spark of lust in our own soul. Afterwards Samson going with his Parents to woo his wife, killed a young Lion in the vineyards of Timnah, and the text saith, he told not his Father or • other what he had done. Herein his silence no less commendable then his valor. But indeed true prowess pleaseth itself more in doing then reporting its own achievements. Not long after the Bees made a hive of the Lions body. And did not this land flow with honey, when it was poured into a carcass for want of other vessels to receive it? Honey which in fine proved gall to the Philistines. For though they read his riddle by plowing with his heifer, he paid his forfeit by killing their Country men. Hence afterwards Samson, to revenge the injuries offered unto him, sent forth his Foxes, which proved incendiaries of the corn and grain of the Philistines.

§ 22. So much for the places of this Tribe, of whose situation we have any certainty from God's word, or good Authors. On the rest we hang out our conjectural Flag. Which whilst some censure for the Ensigns of our ignorance; others I hope will approve as the colors of our modesty. Especially having done our best endeavor in ranking them; and in default of demonstrations, the most probability hath ever been accounted the next heir apparent to Truth. The best is, such places are only of name, not of note; but once mentioned in Joshua, without any memorable actions done in them, and so any mistake in the false posture will prove less dangerous. Mountains of eminency this Tribe affords none, save mount Seir (puny hills far different from those in Edom ) and mount Baalah. Both parcels of the south-west bounds of Judah, as originally they were assigned. But seeing those limits were afterward discomposed by a new division and re-assignment of them to this Tribe (the out-list of Judah fell into the midst of Dans whole cloth) those antiquated borders are 〈◊〉 the less remarkable. And as for other mountains, although this whole was mountainous, yet there was a parity in her hills, none exceeding high▪ one •• such advantages of ground swelling above the plain, seemed to be the full breasts and fair nipples of that land, which flowed with milk and honey.

§ 23. A fair reserve of land in, not of, the Tribe, is still behind, long expecting our company to come and describe it; namely; Philistia, or a part of the land of the Philistines. These were a warlike people; none of the seven nations of the Canaanites, which God drave out before Israel, but descended from Mi • zraim, the son of Cham. In the race of military achievements, they started with the first, ran with the swiftest, and held out with the longest. Having a • King in the days of Abraham, and continuing themselves in a considerable condition till after the captivity. Returning almost as many forcible impressions, as they received from the Israelites. What though Sh •• gar smote, Samson 〈◊〉 , and Samuel humbled them? yet they grew so great in the reign of Saul, that they left all the Israelites swordles • : though afterwards there was one sword too many in Saul • hand, wherewith he slew himself when overcome by the Philistines. Indeed David brought them, and Solomon kept them under. But in the days of Joram they so recovered themselves, that they plundered Judah, rifled the Kings palace, killed and carried captive the seed royal. Uzziah after ordered them into obedience . but under Ahaz they regnined their lost cities, and wan more unto them. In a word; of the heathen people left for thorns in the sides of the Jews, none had sharper prickles or pierced nearer to their hearts then the Philistines. Yea such their puissance, that from them the Greeks and Latinos called all this land Palestine • because the Philistines lived on the sea-coast most obvious to the notice of foreiners. As in deed a small Port makes a greater report in the ears of strangers far off, then a land-locked place though far greater in proportion.

§ 24. The bounds of Philistia are not precisely to be set down. For whilst tame cattle are kept in pastures, beasts of prey (such this warlike people) are only bounded by their own ravenous appetite. The best way to measure the borders of the Philistines is to behold the sins of the Israelites. For when they were increased, then the Country of the Philistines. was accordingly enlarged. Thus in the days of King Saul they roved, and ranged as far as Dor and Bethshean in the half Tribe of Manasseh, and had Garrisons in the heart of most Tribes of Israel. But their constant habitation (their den, as I may term it) was atract of ground from Gath in the north to Gaza in the south. Some fifty miles in length and about half as broad, in the lands allotted to Judah, Dan, and Simeon. Their government was a mixture of Monarchy, and Aristocracy. For as their chief Cities had Kings over them, which seem absolute in their own dominions; so these kingdoms were but Cantons in relation to the whole, as members making up one entire Commonwealth.

§ 25. There need no other evidence be produced to prove the fruitfulness of their Country, then the vastness of their bodies, whereof the rankness of their ground must be allowed a partial cause. Our English Proverb saith, show me not the meat, but show me the man. The well batling of the Giants bred in Philistia (chiefly in Gath their Seminary) being Heteroclites, redundants from the rules of nature, sufficiently attests the fertility of their soil. Some of these Giants had their hands branching out into six fingers, though they who had one fewer had enough to kill them. Let Naturalists curiously inquire, whether or no this stock of Giants be wholly spent in our age. And if so, what the true causes thereof. Whether intemperance of diet, or over early marriage; seeing every one that is raw to work, count themselves ripe to wed. Let them consult whether nature hath not some other way recompensed in our age that want of strength, by giving them quicker wits; whereas in voluminous men commonly there is much empty margent. However men's lesser strength and stature amounts not to a proof of an universal decay in nature, as a most learned pen hath unanswerably demonstrated.

§ 26. One thing more we must observe of the Philistines, that they are also called Cherethims or Cherethites in Scripture. Know also that the Cherethites were a kind of lifegard to King David. Now because it is improbable that so wise a Prince would intrust his Person in the protection of the Philistines his conquered enemies: therefore learned Tremellius by Cherethites understands such Israelites as afterwards possessed the Country of the Philistines expulsed by David. Which seems to some but a forced interpretation. For what unlikelihood was it, that David might entertain Proselyte Philistines, converts to the Jewish religion, if there were such, to be attendants about his body? Not to instance in the French Kings double gard of Scots, and Switzars, as improper to this purpose; (because though foreign, yet free and friendly nations;) David out of policy might retain such to wait upon him, both for their present encouragement, and future engagements of the fidelity of the Philistines. Whose service might not only be free from danger, but full of advantage, especially when they were under the conduct of so wise and valiant an Israelite as Benaiah the son of Jehoiada placed governor over them. To render this still more probable: Consider how Ittai the Gittite, with six hundred men of Gath, was no native of Israel, as appears by David's words, thou art a stranger and an exile; and yet was entrusted with the Command of a Terce of the army, in the battle against Absalom. Wherein he excellently acquitted himself according to his loyal resolution to attend the Kings fortunes whether in life or death.

§ 27. Come we now to describe the Country Philistia, where in the north part thereof, we find Gath a regal City: before Achish the son of Maoch the King whereof, David to save his life counterfeited himself mad. But whether guilty or no in so doing, Divines have not yet determined. It would incline me to the more charitable side, that he had good warrant for what he did, because at the same time (understand it immediately before or after) he composed two Psalms. Which show his soul not out of tune solemnly to serve God. But David went to Achish a second time, with six hundred men; (it seems upon better assurance beforehand, then formerly) and was with great kindness entertained by him, dwelt with him in Gath, and after obtained Ziklag from him; and by Achish his mind should have been the keeper of his head. Achish the son of Maachah (tributary no doubt to Solomon ) was King of Gath. For Shimei confined to Jerusalem by Solomon's command, and his own consent, did fetch from him his fugitive servants. Time was when Shimei's tongue ran too fast in railing on David his Master, and now his feet moved too far in running after his servants, so that breaking the Tedder of his Commission, of the pieces thereof a Halter was justly made for his execution. This City of Gath was afterwards fortified by Rehoboam, and many years after taken by Hazael King of Syria, and in the next age had the wall thereof broken down by Uzziah King of Israel.

§ 28. Betwixt Gath and Ekron (lying thence south west) we are as certain there were Cities as ignorant how to call them. For the present let them pass by the name of Samuel's Cities: because by his devotion, the Cities, which the Philistines had taken from Israel, were restored to Israel from Ekron even unto Gath. See the difference betwixt Priest and Priest, both in service and success. Vicious Hophni brings forth the Ark into the field, fights, falls, loseth his own life, and part of Israel's Land to the Philistines. Pious Samuel stays and prays at home; the Ark is brought back to him: he both saves himself, and as a bountiful benefactor regaineth the former loss of his Country.

§ 29. Ekron was a stately City; and commendable was the discretion of her Inhabitants, who learning wit from their neighbors woe, would not keep the Ark and God's anger therein, but with the speediest conveniency returned it home to Bethshemes. Of these Ekronites, David afterward killed two hundred, and tendered their Foreskins a Dowry for Michal Saul's daughter. For, though by the condition of his Espousals he contracted but for an hundred Foreskins, yet such was the supererogation of his valor (Love and Loyalty never give scant measure) that he doubled the number. And what injustice was it that he that paid her dowry double should enjoy her but half? seeing Saul afterwards took her away, and gave her to another. Beelzebub was the grand Idol of Ekron, whose name importeth a Lord of flies. Scaliger conceiving it to be a nick-name which the Jews gave it in derision, so that the terming it a God of flies, was in effect to say, a fly for your God. In the New Testament Beelzebub passeth for the Prince of the Devils. It seems that Hell itself, that place of confusion, would wholly be confounded, if some superiority were not therein observed.

§ 30. More south we again come to the river Sorek, on whose banks grew Grapes of goodly greatness; yea the Hebrews report them to have been without any kernels. But that hereabouts Lust did not grow without shame and sorrow to attend it, Samson will sadly witness. For in the house of Delilah by the brook of Sorek, he betrayed his strength to her, she his person to the Philistines. Thus those that sleep on a harlots lap for their Pillow, are overtaken with destruction before they dream thereof. Hence they carried Samson to Gaza, which is well nigh forty miles off. And why so far? Partly to render their triumph more glorious, baiting him with all eyes gazing on him, and partly the more safely to secure him, bringing him far from his friends, and beyond the reach of any rescue.

§ 31. But as here was the place where Samsons purity was polluted, so hard by was the the fountain or water wherein the Ethiopians pollution was purified. This was he, who being Treasurer to Candace Queen of Ethiopia, rode in his chariot and read Isaiah, when, (always some unexpected good surpriseth such as are studious in the Scripture) Philip was sent to expound it unto him. Can a Blackamore change his skin, saith the Prophet? But see here the virtue of baptismall water, washing away the black hue, and vicious habits of his natural Corruption, and making him a true Christian convert.

§ 32. But Philip was found at Azotus: and Azotus or Ashd • d hardby is easily found, (for a City seated on a Hill cannot be hid. ) This was the third Satrapie of the Philistines, in our definition, but first in honor, as famous for Dagon an Idol there adored: who yet had the manners in homage to the Ark to put off his head and hands, and fall flat on the ground; And hither first they brought the Ark of God . This was allotted to the Tribe of Judah ; but left unconquered by Joshua. King Uzziah brake down the wall of it: and built Cities in the coast of it . And soon after Tartan sent by Sargon King of Assyria, took it . The Maccabees had divers battles near Azotus. Here Judas overthrows Gorgias , And spoils Azotus ; And again pursues Bacchides. But himself is slain . Here Jonathan overcomes Demetrius the younger, and burns Azotus; and the Temple of Dagon ; And hereabouts Judas and John prevail against Cendebeus. As for Dagon here adored, some make him Patron of grain, (and he is translated 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 by Philo Biblius ) others the President of the sea; and we may safely believe his Power as much over the one as the other. His shape (save that it was masculine for sex ) resembled the Antick laughed at by the Poet.

And yet this Fish had also feet under the tail thereof, which feet of a fish seem not to stand with any proportion. But what shall we say? The uglier his shape, the handsomer for an Idol; and to keep a Decorum, it was fit that he should be as misshapen in his form, as monstrous in his worship. Far handsomer no doubt were the women of Ashdod, or else the Israelites would never have been so enamored with them, as after their return from the captivity, by marrying with them to beget a mongrell offspring, whose tongues (as if divided Parte per Pale ) spake half Ashdod and half Hebrew. But surely God was afterwards better pleased with the Jews solemn submission, and fair putting away of their wives, then with the cruelty of the Britons (if true what reported) which marrying French women in Armorica (now called little Britain ) out of a zeal to preserve their native Language, they cut out their wives tongues for fear they should infect their children with a mixture of French. As for Metheg-Ammah in Philistia, because the learned are not resolved whether thereby a place be designed; and if so, many take it for Gath; or else that thereby is signified, that David took the Bridle of Power, from the hand of the Philistines; see it signed with an Asteriske, enough to tell the Reader, that we do not show, but seek a certainty therein.

§ 33. So much for the land in this Tribe. If we look on the sea, bounding it on the west, see Jonah in his ship, flying as fast as he could, from the presence of the Lord, that is, from the performance of his Prophetical function in Nineveh. Otherwise he was better principled then to conceive it probable, in any place to avoid God's presence; and (if so erroneously opinioned) made the worst of choices, to go down into the sea, where Divine power most effectually appears. Many carnal reasons might cause his flight; as, fear to he murdered for delivering so unwelcome a message to that bloody City; suspicion, that his preaching little regarded in Israel, would be less in Nineveh; zeal to his Country, as perceiving the conversion of the Gentiles, would prove the rejection of the Jews; and a Jealousy (as himself confesseth) his Prophesy should be disproved on the people's repentance.

A terrible tempest pursuing the ship, works wonders in the mariners:

• 1 Out of the bold came fear; They were afraid.
• 2 Out of the profane came piety; Cryed every man to his God.
• 3 Out of the covetous prodigality; Cast their ware into the sea.

Mean time Jonah was fast asleep in the botome of the ship. It is hard to make sense of his actions, his flight spake fear, his sleeping shown security; formidat & audet. How doth sin distract men, making them as contrary to themselves, as to God's commandments!

§ 34. At last, the Master of the ship (now vassal to the winds) awakes him; and Jonah detected by lot, and his guilty▪ conscience, is cast as a peace offering into the sea, where a Whale is provided, after three days to bring him safe to the shore; who amongst many Land-types, was the only Sea-type (as the Serpent the Air-type ) of our Savior.

§ 35. The son of Dekar was Solomon's purveyour in Machats, and in Shaalbim, and Bethshemesh, and Elon-Bethanan, all places in or near this Tribe. The Arms vulgarly assigned to Dan, are Vert a Snake or adder argent nowed, b • ting, as some add, (let Heralds translate it into the proper terms of Blazonry) the heels of an horse, whereby the Cavalier mounted on him falls down backwards. All grounded on the Blessing of Jacob; intimating the sly and subtle disposition of the Danites, whose sleight was above their might, policy more then their power, verified in their sudden and unexpected surprisal of the City of Laish. Nor know I how herein to reconcile the particular fancy of Ibn Ezra to this received opinion, who allots an Eagle for the arms of Dan: a creature of most contrary posture and practice to a Snake: (nothing creeps lower then the one, or soars higher then the other) except agreeing in the general qualities of quick-sight and subtlety. Here if some say that the Eagle might have been the crest of Dan, they will quickly retract their opinion, considering crests a modern device, and could not be born in that age, which was scarce conceived three hundred years since. The standard of Dan was erected foremost of the three on the north side of the Tabernacle.

Here the Map of Simeon is to be inserted.

[illustration]

THE TRIBE OF SIMEON. CHAP. 11.

§ 1. SIMEON second son of Jacob by Leah his wife probably was active in the persecution of his brother Joseph; (therefore singled out in Egypt to be a prisoner) certainly imbrued his hands with Levi in the blood of the Shechemites: Whereupon Jacob jointly cursed them, I will divide them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel. Which prediction took a threefold effect in this Tribe, namely in their

• 1 Paucity. Scarce any Tribe came more out of Egypt, not any by much entered fewer into Canaan. So sensible was their diminution, that of fifty • nine thousand, but twenty two thousand two hundred possessed their inheritance. It seemeth that the many mortalities in the wilderness did light heavy on the Simeonites. Yea after they were settled in their possessions, the Text saith, they had not many children, neither did all their family multiply, like to the children of Judah. And although immediately after it is recorded, that the house of their Fathers increased greatly; yet the proportion is to be measured, not in relation of this to other Tribes, but in the reference of these families to others in the same Tribe of Simeon.
• 2 Obscurity. Neither Judge nor Prophet extracted from this Tribe: save that in this dearth of eminent persons (famine will make those crumbs to be taken up, which otherwise would be cast away) we must take in Judith, with her Apocrypha achievements. But most sure it is that one notoriously infamous, namely Zimri, the son of Salu, who defied justice, and boldly avouched his adultery with a woman of Midian, was son to a Prince of Simeon.
• 3 Dispersedness. Their Country was but a jagged Remnant originally belonging to, and still surrounded with Judah on all sides, save on the sea, amongst whom their towns were scattered.

§ 2. Yet in process of time, as the dispersion of the Levites was turned totally, so the scattering of the Simeonites was changed partially into a blessing. Their local mixture with Judah begat a political confederacy with them, Come up with me into my lot, and likewise I will go with thee into thy lot. Whence a double benefit accrued to the Simeonites.

• 1 Spiritual: they were hedged in by their habitation, in the right way of God's worship: so that, when the ten Tribes made their idolatrous defection under Jeroboam, many of the Simeonites persevered in God's true service: and they fell to King Asa in abundance.
• 2 Temporal. When the rest of their brethren were finally carried away captive under Hoshed in the sixth year of the reign of King Hezekiah, • probable it is that a considerable number of the Simeonites remained, as hath been proved before, by their habitation within the lot of Judah.

§ 3. The Lot of Simeon was transcendently fruitful▪ having a most temperate air, insomuch that Saint Jerome 〈◊〉 , in his time it was termed Regio salutaris, the healthy Country. No marvel then if the Patriarchs Abraham and Isaac having their choice of the whole Country, preferred to live so long in these parts. And the latter of them sowing grain near Gerar reaped an hundred fold, which was the greatest increase which that Corn returned, which fell into good ground, in the Gospel.

§ 4. In the north-east corner of this Tribe we find • that mountain before Hebron, to the top whereof, full twenty miles from the City, Samson carried the gates of Azzah. There he laid them down, not in a plain but steep place, partly in the gallantry of his strength, that not faintness, but his free pleasure made him lay them down, and partly, that in so conspicuous a place the Gazites might easier find their gates there, then fetch them thence. A little more westward, not far from the banks of the river Sorek, stood the City Ziklag, which A • hish King of Gath, bestowed on David during his abode there. If any demand why David, when King of Israel, did not restore Ziklag to Achish again; let such know, that (besides that Cities once passed into a potent hand, are too precious things to be parted with) David being crowned King of Israel had an undoubted right derived unto him by God's grant, not only to this City, but to the whole Kingdom of Gath, and land of the Philistines, which God had given to Judah, though hitherto they were not able to recover it.

§ 5. Afterwards, whilst David was marching (at least wise in presence) with Achish against Saul, the Amalekites in his absence burnt Ziklag, carrying away all the people therein captive. Griefe hereat so prevailed in David's men at their return, that in anguish of their hearts, they were ready to stone him. Could better be expected from them? Behold their original, they were at first, men in debt and distress, whose several discontents made them generally contented to join together; so that not David, but his necessities chose them to attend him, who now in adversity discovered their impious dispositions. But David to avoid this shower of stones ready to rain upon him, run for shelter to God his Rock, in whom he comforted himself. Thus, as it is always darkest just before the Day dawneth, so God useth to visit his servants with greatest afflictions, when he intendeth their speedy advancement. For immediately after, David not only recovered his loss with advantage, but also was proclaimed King of Israel: though some war arose for a time between him and Ishbosheth.

§ 6. But the most memorable places of this Tribe are seated on or near the brook of Bezor, which arising in Judah takes his course southwest, not far from Ethar or Etan in the north-east corner of this Tribe. In the rock of Etan near the City of that name Samson reposed himself, whence the men of Judah brought him down, bound with two cords, and delivered him to the Philistines: but he presently found his spirits, and in that place the jaw-bone of an Ass. Bad weapons are better then none; and it matters not what they be, so that they be wielded by Samsons arm, that, guided by God's hand. This jaw-bone which used to feed on grass, here eat up a thousand men. Hereupon the place was called Rama-Lehi, the lifting up of a jawbone.

§ 7. Thus Samsons thirst of revenge was allayed with the blood of the Philistines, but the quenching of one thirst was the kindling of another. How quickly can God tame fury into faintness with want of water! In this straight he hath his recourse by prayer to God, who cleaves a hollow place in the jaw. Heaven can make dry bones live, yea give life to others, as here to Samson, water presently flowing out thereof. Let poets fondly brag of Hippocrene, a fountain from a horses hoof; most true it is that a spring did flow from the jawbone of an Ass. Except any be pleased (which indeed is most probable) not to take Lehi in Hebrew for the material jaw-bone, but for the Country thereabouts, so newly named by Samson, out of a hollow place of the earth whereof, God produced this fountain.

§ 8. Hence Bezor runneth by Ain, the only City belonging to the Levites, in this Tribe. Indeed both Simeon and Levi were cursed to be scattered in Israel, and this City of the Levites scattered in Simeon, may seem to be dispersed in a dispersion. One City it seems was proportionable to this small and mangled Tribe. Thus even the poorest must have some Preachers to instruct them, and afford those Preachers maintenance for their instruction. At Gerar, the brook Bezor receives from the south a Tributary rivolet, fetching its fountain out of the wilderness of Kadesh, a place full of strong and stately trees. But what saith the Psalmist? The voice of the Lord shaketh the wilderness, yea the Lord shaketh the wilderness of Kadesh. As if this of all other was most sturdy and stubborn to withstand the summons of God's voice: but all in vain, the least whisper of his mouth sending a palsy into the foundations thereof.

§ 9. In the confines of this wilderness stood three remarkable Cities, which (lest the Reader should mistake) we have marked with circles on the tops of them. Not that any evil spirits moved therein, seeing these were the places where David haunted, whilst Saul persecuted him, and to whose inhabitants he sent part of his spoil taken from the Amalekites for a present. An act no less politick then just, with the same both discharging the shot of his former entertainment, and for the future obliging them by his bounty to be really sensible of his right of succession to the Crown. The first of these Corashan ( elsewhere only called Ashan. ) The second South-Ramoth, and Hormah the last and most observable, because of three eminent places of that name in or near the Land of Canaan,

• 1 Where the disobedient Israelites were destroyed by the Canaanites.
• 2 Where the Canaanites were destroyed by the penitent Israelites.
• 3 Where the Tribes of Judah and Simeon associating together destroyed the Canaanites, being properly in this Tribe.

We see that destruction (so Hormah soundeth in Hebrew) gives the name to them all. And wonder not then, that in a Country the Seat of war, there were so many towns of this sad denomination, but pray rather that God would seasonably settle a peace in England, lest therein be found more Hormahs then were in Israel.

§ 10. As for Gerar the City above mentioned, it was anciently a kingdom of the Philistines, whose Kings seem all to be called Abimelech's. To one of these Abraham falsely affirmed that Sarah his wife was his sister: and afterwards Isaac (see the powerful influence of Parents faults on their children's practice!) to another of the same name offended in the like falsehood. This latter Abimelech looking out of his window, beheld Isaac sporting with Rebekah, (gestures not unlawful as done, but as seen) and from this familiarity (greater his charity then Isaac's caution therein) interpreted her to be not his harlot, but his wife.

§ 11. Afterwards Isaac outed of the City dwelt in the neighbouring valley of Gerar, and whithersoever he removed, God's blessing, and the Philistines envy followed him. He grew fat in estate, his enemies lean at the fight thereof, which made them spitefully stop the wells which his Father had digged. Happy that they could neither dam up nor drain dry the dew of Divine blessing, from falling upon him, which, if possible to effect, their malice would have attempted. But Isaac afterwards sunk these wells the second time, and he called their names after the names by which his Father had called them. See his humility herein, not varying from his Fathers will in an indifferent matter, whereas many now adays count it the greatest honor of this age, in all things to diffent from the former. Besides these renewed wells, Isaac had new ones of his own making, as namely

• 1 Esech: that is stri • e, so called because his heardmen, and the Gerarites strove about it.
• 2 Sitnah, that is hatred, so named on the like occassion.
• 3 Rekoboth, that is enlargement, which he peaceably possessed; God making room for him.

The two former pass for the emblems of our militant condition in this life, the last typyifieth our happy estate in a better, and more roomthy place; In my Fathers house there be many mansions.

§ 12. This vale of Gerar was the Granary of Canaan, whither the Patriarchs retired in time of famine; for plenty dwelt there, when penury was elsewhere. Nor will it be amiss to insert the testimony of a Modern traveler, to show how the Country hereabouts, even at this day, retains an indelible character of its former fruitfulness. We passed this day through the most pregnant and pleasant valley, that ever eye beheld. On the right hand a ridge of high mountains (whereon stands Hebron) on the left hand the Mediterranean Sea bordered with continued hills, beset with variety of fruits. The Champion between about twenty miles over, full of flowery hills ascending leisurely, and not much surmounting their ranker valleys, with groves of Olives and other fruits dispersedly adorned. Yet is this wealthy Bottom (as are all the rest) for the most part uninhabited.

§ 13. From the vale of Gerar the brook Berzor runneth by the grove near Beersheba, planted by Abraham for the more convenient performance of his devotion. Collect we hence that Abraham resided some considerable time in these parts, seeing trees grow not up as Jonah his gourd in a night, but must have some competent season to come to maturity. But what was piety in Abraham in planting this grove, was profaneness in his posterity to imitate. For after that God had made choice of a fixed place (Tabernacle, or Temple) to put his name there, such as elsewhere sacrificed unto him were not only guilty of Schism (separating themselves from the public worship) but flat Idolatry, serving the true God in a false manner, namely, in a place prohibited. And now it is seasonably remembered, that many ages after, Beersheba was an eminent place of Idolatry. The Prophet threateneth final confusion to such that say, in nature of an oath, The manner of Beersheba liveth. It being probable that as the brazen serpent set up by Moses, was afterwards abused to Idolatry, so this grove of Abraham's planting near Beersheba was by his posterity perverted to some solemn superstition, the manner or way whereof, secundum usum Beershebae, was a precedent, or leading pattern for other places to imitate: as Act. 9. 2. & 18. 25. & 24. 14.

§ 14. But the City of Beersheba itself stood hard by on the brook Bezor. The name imports, The well of an oath. First so called from Abraham's, then from Isaac's ceremonious swearing and covenanting with Abimelech in that place. Now if Scarlet keep color because twice died, and therefore called Dibaphon, well might Beersheba retain her name, twice on the same occasion imposed upon it. Here God comforted Jacob in his journey down into Egypt, promising him safety and sight of his son Joseph. Many hundred years after, Samuel at Beersheba set up his Sons for Judges, who degenerated from their Fathers integrity. In the division of the land into two kingdoms, Beersheba belonged to Judah, where Jehoshaphat set up Judges, and whither Elijah persecuted by Jezebel fled for succor. Hence he fled into the wilderness, leaving his servant at Beersheba. Not that he carelessly cast him off, but as the case stood with Elijah, life was to be preferred before attendance, and one alone might shift with more secrecy then two together. Besides, by the avoidance of this servant (probably no person of extraordinary performance) divine providence made a way for Elisha (one of more desert) in this vacancy to be inducted into Elijah's service.

§ 15. Coming still west-ward on the bank of Bezor, we find the place where two hundred of David's foot being faint stayed with the baggage, whilst the rest of their brethren pursued and conquered the Amalekites. But these at their return denied the two hundred staying by the brook, any part of their spoil, till David ordered it as a leading case, that these which attended the baggage should be equal sharers with such who fought in the battle. And very good reason:

• 1 It was not laziness, but weariness kept them behind. A stout heart sometimes cannot help a fainting body. Wherefore to punish sickness in them for a sin, had been height of tyranny.
• 2 Grant their tired bodies could not keep pace with their souls, yet no doubt in desire they marched along with their brethren, and perchance by their prayers facilitated their victory.
• 3 During their staying behind, their employment was as necessary, though not so honorable. The stuff could not secure it self, and the keeping of it in the others absence was a good piece of defensive service.

Now from hence it appears, that in cases not provided for in the judicial Law, the Princes of Israel were entrusted with power to enact Statutes, in a prudential proportion to God's word, binding all in their dominions to the observation of them. This ordinance of David may from the place be termed the Statute of Bezor. Nor is it any news for Laws to be made in open fields by rivers sides, our English Laws having had their birth in so plain a place in Ronny-mede near the river of Thames, where King John and his Barons first drew them up together. Yea, no fitter place for such solmn acts then a rivers side, where the sight thereof may be the remembrancer, that Judgment may run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream. Hence Bezor glideth into the Land of the Philistines, whither in due time we will follow it.

§ 16. South of this brook lay the wilderness of Beersheba, often mentioned in Scripture. Herein Hagar and Ishmael wandered when the bottle of water was spent, the last Legacy which Abraham bequeathed him. Oh how she weeps, as if intending to refill the same from her eyes! but alas, that moisture so brackish would rather increase then allay any thirst. And now what should she do? It was death to her to see her son die, and yet that pity which would not suffer her to tarry by him, would not permit her to depart from him. In this Dilemma of affection she resolves on the distance of a bow-shoot, as a competent mean betwixt presence and absence, and disposeth herself under one shrub, her son under another. Here Ishmael cries and God heareth. The very worst in extreme want are the object of pity, and though Ishmael had mocks for Isaac, heaven had mercy for Ishmael. An Angel sent shows Haga • a fountain, not now newly created, but newly discovered to her sight. The object was there before, but the Organ not rightly disposed to behold it. How near may men be to their own happiness and miss it; touching it, yet not seeing it, till God open their eyes! More south in this wilderness was the Juniper-tree under which Elisha sat so highly discontented. Coals of Juniper we know are extremely hot, but is there any secret quality in the shade of that tree, to put Elijah, sitting under, into such passions, as that nothing but death would please him for the present? Sorrow bought him asleep, and afterwards awaking, being refreshed with a cake of bread, cruse of water, and comfort of an Angel he undertook his journey to Horeb.

§ 17. Not far off betwixt Kadesh and Bered is Beer-laha-roi, that is, the well of him that liveth and seeth: so named by Hagar, because there an Angel catechised, comforted, and counseled her to return and humble herself to Sarah her mistress. By this well Isaac was walking and meditating, when Rebekah brought from her Fathers house first met him, in her most modest behavior. For at the sight of him, though at some distance, she lighted from her Camel, counting it ill manners to ride, when her husband and master went a foot: as also to give an earnest of her future good housewifery, that she would prefer industry before ease, honest pain before pleasure. The she veiled herself, partly to show that the beams of her beauty were hereafter to be appropriated to Isaac alone, & partly in confession of subjection, being now under covert-baron, the command and protection of a husband. Well, I dare compare, yea prefer this veiled wives chastity, before the virginity of many veiled votaries.

§ 18. More south is the river of Egypt the utmost limit, not only of this Tribe, but of all Israel. Indeed by the river of Egypt 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 (often mentioned in Exodus ) only Nile is intended. But this stream (which some conceive is particularly called Shichos ) is termed the River of Egypt, not because it is in, but is in the high way to Egypt. Otherwise, the traveler who sits down on the banks thereof, shall never come thither. In the Septuagint, Rhinocolura is put for this river of Egypt, being a long named city of short note, seated on the influx thereof into the sea. Only this Rhinocolura is famous in heathen History, because hither (as into an Hospital) all those malefactors were sent, whose noses were cut off for their offenses: a punishment inflicted on the Egyptians by an Ethiopian King who conquered them Hence had it the name of Rhinocolura, or the place of nose-maimed people. But ô how great must that city be which in our age should contain all those, whose faces are nose-less, not by others cruelty, but their own luxury!

§ 19. As for other cities in this Tribe of Simeon they were many, but obscure. It is observable that most of them are written with an Aliàs first, as they are named Josh. 19. secondly, as they are called 1 Chron. 2. None need to wonder at their different denominations. Here I interpose nothing of the several writing of the same places

• 1 According to exact Critics in spelling them.
• 2 According to vulgar tongues in pronouncing them.

Only we commend to the Readers notice, that the book of Chronicles was written after the return from Captivity; and about eighteen generations after the days of Joshua. And therefore some difference of letters after so large a time is no strange thing. For seeing here we have no continuing city, it cannot be expected that any city should have a continuing name. And yet great places longest retain their names unaltered, (as London from Taeitus to our times) whereas small cities like these in Simeon are as often alterable, as passed into the possession of several owners. Yea seeing it was the custom of the Jews, to call their lands after their own names, this haply might change Beth-lebaoth in this Tribe, into Beth-birei, when it came into the possession of a new landlord.

§ 20. So much of this small Tribe, whose portion was too little for his people, and therefore they made two happy expeditions to enlarge their quarters: one in the reign of Hezekiah to the entrance of Gedor, even unto the east side of the valley, a place of good and fat pasture; for they of Ham (Canaanites) had dwelt there of old. Mice sometimes may be men's tasters, to teach them which is best for their palate: and those heathen were wise enough to settle themselves in the richest soil, whence now the Simeonites expelled them. This Gedor was in the division of the land allotted to the Tribe of Judah. Now if any demand by what right the Simeonites might invade this which was assigned to Judah, they may know that in case a strong hold could not be reduced into subjection by that Tribe to which it belonged, it was not an act of injustice, but valor, for the next Tribe to undertake the conquest thereof: As by their judicial law if one died not having issue by his wife, the next of kin might 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , and was heir (as I may say) to marry his brothers wife; so when Judah through some defect or debility was unable to improve his Patrimony in Gedor to profit, by casting out the heathen who violently detained it, Simeon (his next neighbor in situation) suecceding to the right of his brother, attempted and effected the conquest thereof: Herein only it holds not proportion, because the seed so raised up was accounted to his dead brother, whereas here Simeon made bold himself quietly to possess what victoriously he had acquired. Wonder not that this petty Tribe in overcoming Gedor did more then puissant Judah could perform; for always the battle is not to the strong, and weaker means watching advantages may perfect what more powerful have left uneffected. This Gedor (grudge not reader to sally with thine eye a little out of this Tribe, being still in this map) lay on the north of the river Sorek, and was one of the 31. regal cities of the Canaanites. As for the Simeonites second voyage against the Amalekites in mount Seir, more proper thereof hereafter in the description of Edom.

§ 21. Now that which straightened the portion of Simeon, was the multitude of Philistines inhabiting the sea coasts, allotted to, but never possessed by this Tribe. Askelon was a prime city in those parts, once won by Judah assisting Simeon, but after recovered by the Philistines. Samson, being cast to give his companions thirty change of raiment, went neither to the Merchant for the stuff, nor Taylor for making of them, but (knowing the Philistines garments would best fit Philistines bodies) he marched directly to Askelon, where finding thirty Philistines, he bestowed their corps on the earth, and their cases on their fellow-countrymen. This caused that active antipathy betwixt Askelon and Israel, Tell it not in Gath, nor publish it in Askelon. Near to this city there was a lake, by which Semiramis is said to be born, there fed and relieved by Doves. Hence the Poet Tibullus.

But because no mention of this in Scriptures, we forbear further prosecution thereof.

§ 22. Going along south by the sea side (here styled the sea of the Philistines ) we come at last to Azzah, or Gaza the fifth satrapy of the Philistines, once conquered by Judah, but soon after returning to the former owners Samson, who carried the gates thereof away, could not bring himself hither again, without the guidance of another. Pain here was added to his blindness, when set to grind in a mill; scorn to his pain, when sent for, at a solemn feast to be the musician to make sport, or rather the Instrument ready tuned for every wanton eye, tongue, and hand to play upon. But such as mock at other men's miseries, sometimes laugh so long till their own hearts ache. For Samson applied himself to the two pillars most fundamental to the roof of Dagons Temple, and by the strength of his arms and prayers, pulling them down, killed and died together. Strange that his enemies knowing his strength resided in his hair, prevented not the second growth thereof. But God first stupefies whom he intends for destruction: Samson had lost his sight, the Philistines their foresight at the same time.

§ 23. Many ages after Gaza was smote by Pharaoh King of Egypt, and not warned thereby to repent, utter desolation was denounced against it. There needeth no clearer comment on the Prophets prediction, Gaza shall be forsaken, then that passage in the Acts of the Apostles, the way unto Gaza which is wast. This vastation was caused by Alexander the great, when he utterly razed the city, fulfilling what Jeremiah had foretold, Baldness is come upon Gaza, whereby not only the hair, but skin and flesh of this proud place fell away, scarce any signs of a city remaining. Out of the ruins hereof, some two miles westward (where Bezor falleth into the sea) Majuma or Sea-Gaza once a proper port-town took its rise and increase, called afterward Constantia by Constantine the great, and Gatzra at this day, where simple roofs supported with carved columns, and broken pieces of Parian Marble, serving for thresholds, jambes of doors, and sides of windows almost to every beggarly cottage, testify its former better condition. So much for these Philistines, who are taxed for their soothsaying by Isaiah, accused of spightfulness and old hatred by Ezekiel, challenged for cruelty by Amos, arraigned for pride by Zacharias, condemned by all to unavoidable destruction. Think not that these Philistines, fox-like, fared the better for being cursed, surely though slow, sure vengeance overtook them; and we undoubtedly believe the same, although it be hard in history to show when, where, and how their particular extirpation was accomplished.

§ 24. Simeon hath usually assigned him for his arms, Gules, a sword in pale, with the point thereof erected argent; alluding to Jacob's words, Instruments of cruelty are in his habitations, because of their perfidious massacring of the Shechemites. None of Solomon's Purveyours in the Tribe of Simeon, the reason whereof shall be rendered in our description of Judah. If any demand, why Simeon alone is omitted in Moses his solemn blessing of the other Tribes, let them remember how Jacob coupled Simeon and Levi in a curse; since which time the Levites had unstrained their credit by their exemplary zeal against the Idolaters, but the Simeonites had not recovered their reputation by any eminent act by them achieved. Moses therefore having no commission to recall Jacob's curse, and loath to repeat it, (lest the double-cursed Simeonites should be utterly disheartened) thought it in pious policy best to pass them over in silence. Of such persons, of whom we would willingly say no bad, and cannot truly say any good, it is the wise • t way to say nothing. As for their tradition that the Simeonites were employed to be Scribes and Notaries to the Tribe of Judah, it is enough to mention it, knowing no sound authority, whereon the same is grounded.

Here the Map of Benjamin is to be inserted.

[illustration]

THE DESCRIPTION OF THE TRIBE OF BENIAMIN. CHAP. 12.

§ 1. BEnjamin youngest son of Jacob by Rachel, was by his mother dying of him in child-birth named Ben-oni, that is, the son of sorrow, but by his Father called Benjamin, that is, the son of the right hand. Say not Jacob did ill in altering the Will of his wife, and revoking the name, the last legacy she bequeathed to her child, seeing the alteration was perfective, and for the advantage of the Legatee; not to say that Rachel's pangs imposed that name, and might be presumed scarce compos mentis in what she did. But the main reason of the alteration was, because Jacob could not call his son, but must recall his lost wife to his mind, so that his very name constantly carried a coffin in the mention thereof. Highly he was beloved of his Father; and good reason; First, because begot in his old age. Secondly, because the youngest: and affection, which always descends, when it can go no lower, settles itself. Thirdly, because he was motherless. Lastly, because brotherless, Joseph being conceived dead, and so the portion of affection due to him, fell to Benjamin as the right heir thereof.

§ 2. Of this Tribe came out of Egypt thirty five thousand four hundred, all which dying in the wilderness, forty five thousand and six hundred of their children entered the land of Canaan. Afterwards an heavy dysaster befell this Tribe (of the cause and manner whereof hereafter) insomuch that no. women and only six hundred men were left of Bemjamin. Yea none of Benjamin were left above ground, being destroyed from being visible on the face of the earth, and the six hundred remaining all hid in the rock of Rimmon. Thus Benjamin was cut off from the body of Israel, and only hung dangling by one small sinew, which by the careful Chirurgery of their brethren, and God's blessing upon it, in short time recovered itself to be very considerable in Israel.

§ 3. Herein the words of the Psalmist deserve to be observed, There is little Benjamin with their ruler. Little Benjamin: It was therefore no court-complement, or modest excuse, but a downright truth. Saul said unto Samuel, Am I not a Benjami • of the smallest of the Tribes of • srael? It is added, with their Ruler: no Tribe (Judah excepted) more trading in Commanders then Benjamin did. Hereof were Saul and Ishbosheth both crowned Kings, Jonathan the eldest son; Mordecai the Favorite, Esther the wife of a King; Ehud the Judge, and Abner the General of Israel, with divers others. And among Ecclesiastical Rulers, let not him be forgot, who had the care of all the Churches, even Saint Paul the Apostle. But beside these Rulers, Benjamin bred some enemies to authority, Ziba that false cheater, Shimei that foul railer, Baanah and Rechab privy traitors, Sheba a professed Rebell; so impossible it is, all should be good herbs which grow in great gardens.

§ 4. The lot of Benjamin came forth betwixt the children of Judah and the children of Joseph. If a sparrow falls not on the ground, surely ground falls not to any owner without God's immediate providence. Benjamin joined with Joseph today the possession of Rachel's children entire together; and joined to Judah, that vicinity of habitation might invite them to unity of Religion. And indeed commendable was the constancy of the Benjamites both to God and their King, following the house of David at the disloyal defection of the rest of the Tribes. Say not that little Benjamin was thus placed in the middle to be ground betwixt the mill stones of two potent Tribes; for it matters not who lies on our sides, so be it God dwells on our shoulders. Remember we the blessing Moses bequeathed to this Tribe, The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by him, and the Lord shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his shoulders; particularly pointing at his habitation in Jerusalem built in the borders of Benjamin.

§ 5. Now though Benjamins mess, when he sat at Joseph's table, was five times as much as any of his brethren, yet here it happened his portion was less then all the rest: except any will say, that only Benjamins dish was less and meat more, because, though small the compass of ground allotted to him, yet fair and fruitful the soil, many and memorable the cities contained therein, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , The lot of this Tribe was straightened (saith fosephus) because of the virtue of the soil thereof. Yet as little as the land of Benjamin was, it was big enough to be divided betwixt two kingdoms, the south-west part thereof belonging to the kingdom of Judah, the north-east to Israel, with the cities of Gilgal, Jericho, and Bethel, as shall be made plain in the respective description of those places.

§ 6. Jordan is the eastern boundary of this Tribe : David returning victoriously from Mahanaim, having ferried over this water, partly brought thither, partly met here, a miscellaneous multitude, Barzillai and Shimei, Mephibosheth and Ziba, that is, loyalty and treachery, faith and falsehood mingled together in the same Country. Here (once railing) now begging Shimei obtained pardon from him; because bringing along with him (the best argument in his excuse) a thousand men of Benjamin. Some will say, David shown Shimei too much mercy, and did Mephibosheth too little justice, not righting him against the false accusations of Ziba, who better deserved a whole halter, then half of the lands of Mephibosheth. Such do not seriously consider the present condition of David; who, had his hand struck with the sword of justice, before his feet (in his renewed kingdom) were firmly fastened on the throne of authority, it had been the ready way to have overturned him and his posterity. Here Sheba a Benjamite taking the advantage of the unseasonable contest betwixt Judah and Israel, which should have most interest in David, with his trumpet blew rebellion into the ears and hearts of the people; had not the dangerous consequence thereof been seasonably prevented by the vigilancy and valor of David, and his servants.

§ 7. More south on the banks of the river the children of the Prophets straightened for dwellings, went about to enlarge their habitations, but meanly provided for that purpose, if we consider the

• 1 Architect, a son of the Prophets, little skilled (no doubt) in such employment.
• 2 Timber, green wood, and growing on the banks of Jordan.
• 3 Tools; a borrowed hatchet, the iron whereof fell into the river.

Alas, how comes it to pass, that when houses of the Prophets are to be built, the iron forsakes the handle, which sticks too steadfastly thereunto, when they break them down with axes and hammers! But Elisha made all things whole, the hatchet came unto the helve swimming above the water.

§ The alter Ed succeeds next, more south-ward on the river. Formerly we have placed it in the Tribe of Reuben on the east of Jordan, but others 〈◊〉 it west of that river in this Tribe. Hear the arguments for both.

For Benjamin.

• 1 It was set up in the borders of Jordan which are in the land of Canaan, which land strictly and properly taken was on the west of Jordan.
• 2 It was erected to show the contesseration of their religions. And therefore most probable and proper on the west side of Jordan, in the main continent of the land, to claim right, or rather continue a title of those separatist-Tribes, Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh in point of God's worship with other Tribes.
• 3 Saint Hi • rome, and since him learned Tostatus (to whose arguments in this controversy we refer the reader) with many other Commentators, are very positive in placing this Altar west of Jordan in the Tribe of Benjamin.

For Reuben.

• 1 It was set up over against the land of Canaan. Which in proper construction imports it to be on the other side opposite thereunto.
• 2 It had been a mere trespass, for the two Tribes and an half in aliena Republica, to build an altar on the ground of other Tribes: and therefore no doubt, they did it on their own ground east of Jordan.
• 3 Josephus saith 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 . Therefore the Tribe of Reuben and Gad going over the river &c.
• 4 Another Joseph (though a modern, yet a learned writer) believeth, that in those elder times, that Country or territory was counted unhallowed, or unclean which had not a place set apart for God's worship, and proveth from the words of Phinebas, that the altar was set up on their side, lest otherwise having no place consecrated, they might be concluded to live in an unhallowed habitation.

Thus as this altar caused a difference betwixt brethren, about the cause why it was erected: so hath occsioned a dissension amongst learned men, concerning the place, where the same was set up. The best is, the controversy is not of such moment, as to concern salvation. Let us take heed, we be not of that Generation which set not their hearts aright, and then the danger is not great, though we set this altar on the wrong side of the river. However, as the devout Jews in the primitive times, when the Sabbath was newly changed into the Lord's-day, kept both Saturday and Sunday holy, observing both ex nimia cautela, to be sure to keep the right day of Divine worship: so for more certainty we have erected two altars, one one each side of the river, leaving it to the discretion of the judicious Reader, to accept or refuse which of them he pleaseth.

§ 9. Come we in the next place to the twelve great stones set up by Joshua in memorial that there they passed over the river Jordan on foot Tremellius conceives probably, that these were the quarries in Gilgal mentioned Judge. 3. 19. whence Ehud returned back, when he went to kill Eglon King of Moab. Others likewise conceive, that John baptizing hereabouts, did particularly point at these stones, in that his expression to the Pharisees, God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. They were set up in the Country Gilgal, the city so called lying some five miles west of the river.

§ 10. Gilgal (rolling in Hebrew) was so called by Joshua, because the reproach of Egypt was there rolled away from the Israelites, and circumcision suspended during their travel, being here administered, and the Passover solemnly observed; here also Manna ceased, the Country affording plentiful provisions. Miracles and means never shine together in the same Horizon, but the former setteth, when the later ariseth. It will perchance be demanded, why Manna rained so long, seeing the Israelites long ago were come into the plentiful Country of Canaan, all the while they had remained in the land of Reuben, ever since they came over the river of Arnon. It is answered, God hitherto continued his largess of Manna,

• 1 Because formerly they were only come into the skirts of the country, (insufficient to maintain so numerous an Army) whereas now they were entered into the very heart and middle of the land.
• 2 The land of Reuben though very fruitful, was a place for cattle, fit for grazing, and better for beasts, then men to feed upon.
• 3 God to manifest his liberality, would not only have his provisions to meet even, but to lap over, continuing Manna till his people were otherwise plentifully provided for, both with new corn on the ground (coming hither in the beginning of harvest) and old in their Granary.

Thus the Jews did not begin house-keeping on • are walls, but were set up with full stock afore-hand: victualled in a manner, with two years provision, that with the good house-keeper they might bring forth out of their treasure things new and old.

§ 11. In the days of Samuel and Saul, this was a place of principal credit, where Saul was solemnly invested with a crown, Come, let us go up unto Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there. Yet here at the same time to show God's displeasure with the people for their tumultuous desiring of a King, Thunder in harvest (in Judea Sommers thunder old men's wonder ) exceedingly affrighted the hearers thereof. Afterwards Saul stained this place with a double deed of disobedience,

• 1 When in Samuel's absence he presumed to offer sacrifice. Once the proverb was, Is Saul also amongst the Prophets? Now it may be, Is Saul also amongst the Priests, invading the Sacerdotal function?
• 2 When contrary to God's command, he spared and brought hither the best of spoil of Amalek, so that Samuel was fain to supply what justice was wanting in Saul, who hewed Agag in pieces before the Lord in Gilgal.

In after ages here was an Academy or Seminary of the sons of the Prophets, brought up here in learning preparatory to their profession. Acquired, are so far from hindering infused abilities, that the stock prepared by industry, is fittest to be graffed on by inspiration. Elijah and Elisha were successively the Presidents, or rather the Visitors of this College, the latter being both food, and physic for the students therein:

• 1 Food, when with twenty small Barly loaves he fed an hundred of the children of the Prophets.
• 2 Physic, when his meal was Antidote against the malignity of the wild gourd in their pottage.

It seems the sons of the Prophets were no expert Herbalists, whose learning moved in an higher and holier sphere, and they more skillful to discern betwixt true doctrine and heresy, then betwixt pot-herbs and poison.

§ 12. Gilgal was afterwards a sink of Idolatry, and belonged to the Kings of Israel, as appears by the Prophets counsel, though thou Israel play the harlot, yet let not Judah offend, and come ye not into Gilgal &c. At Gilgal men multiplied transgression, whereupon destruction was denounced against this place, and Gilgal was afterwards rolled up in her own ruins. To return to the river Jordan, which a little south-ward falls into the Salt-sea, the south boundary of this Tribe. The epithet Salt is not here superfluous, but emphatical, partly to distinguish it from the sea of Cinneroth or Galilee, which was a fresh-water-sea; and partly because the water hereof was salt with a witness, fire-salt, as I may say. Let Philosophers demonstrate the cause of the brackishness of the Ocean, though it is to be feared, they will be posed nearer home, how rivulets of tears which flow from their own eyes, come to be so salt. But a peculiar reason may be certainly assigned, why the water in this sea was transcendently salt above all others, whereof largely hereafter in the description of Judah.

§ 13. Having done with the channel of Jordan, the certain and immovable bound of Benjamin on the east, come we now in our perambulation to surround the other three sides of this Tribe, and at first will only take notice of the limitary places, and so proceed from the rine to the core, from the marches to the middle of this country. The south of Benjamin ranged from Kiriath-jearim by the well of the waters of Nephtoah, to the valley of Hinnon, and so on the south of Jerusalem descended to Enrogell. All which places shall hereafter be presented in a peculiar map, and therefore no more for the present.

§ 14. Hence it went forth to Enshemesh, i. e. the fountain of the Sun. Either so called from the clearness of the waters thereof, or because in Idolatrous days, when the host of heaven was worshipped (whereof the Sun the General) it was dedicated thereunto, or because the suns extraordinary influence thereon endued it with sovereign virtue. And now it is well remembered, that Bath in England is called by Antoninus Aque solis or the waters of the Sun. Hence the bounds of Benjamin stretched to Geliloth near Gilgal (over against the going up to Adummim ) and thence descended to the stone of Bohan the son of Reuben, so called no doubt from some memorable act by him there atcheived, for otherwise the Reubenites had no part of possession on the west side of Jordan. Hence this Tribe extended through Arabah to Beth-hoglah, i. e. as Saint Jerome interprets it, Locus gyri, or the place of a circle, because (as he will have it) in this place Joseph with his brethren set in a round (the form of mourners) bewailed the corps of Jacob brought hither out of Egypt.

§ 15. But leaving this as a conjecture, most sure it is, that hereabouts was the floor of Atad, where so solemn a lamentation was made for Jacob's death, that the place long after did wear mourning in the name thereof, therefore called Abel-mizraim, i. e. the sorrowing of the Egyptians. Strange, that strangers, being the Elders of Pharaohs Court and kingdom, should so affectionately bemoan the death of a man no whit related unto them. Surely the Egyptians did not weep-Irish with feigned and mercenary tears, much less was their passion only State-sympathy and politick compliance, sighing and smiling with the sighs and smilings of Joseph. Rather it was because the endearing disposition, and obliging goodness of old Jacob, living fifteen years with them in Egypt, had gained the general love of the land. Besides, they lamented his loss as the death of their own grand-father, because he was Father to Joseph, the Father, founder and preserver of them and theirs in the time of famine. If any demand why the Egyptians mourned for Jacob threescore and ten days, whilst Joseph made a mourning for him but for seven days? I can tell the common answer, that the former ignorant of heavenly happiness lamented him totally lost, whilst Joseph not mourning without hope was more moderate in his lamentation. But whether this solution be sound in itself, or the question exactly conformable to the text, we remit it to the examination of others. I would rather know the reason why this solemnity of sorrow, was performed in this place, rather then at the cave of Machpelah forty miles hence, where the corps were interred; surely the Master of the Ceremonies in those days could give an account thereof.

§ 16. But here it will be objected, that Joseph coming out of Egypt, had a nearer way by many miles to carry Jacob's corps to Hebron, then by going over Jordan. It is confessed, but this fetching a compass was conceived more for the state of the funeral. Unfitting it was, that the body of that worthy Patriarch (to whom all the land belonged by promise) should steal into that Country in a clandestine way, and privately enter in at the postern door, rather let it solemnly surround the Country, and be brought in at the broad gates. Thus the corps of men of quality, though the Chancel-door be nearer, are borne through the porch and middle-alley to the place of their interment.

§ 17. So much for the south-marches of Benjamin, we come now to visit the north-limits thereof. Those began from Jordan (saith our English translation.) In divertigio Iardenis quo magis adhuc ad orientem divertit (saith Tremellius in his note on the place) i. e. in the winding of Jordan as it turns still more to the east; and we could wish, that this eastern flexure of that river, had been made a little more visible in our Maps. Hence they went up to the side of Jericho, understand thereby the confluence of the waters afterwards running to Jericho (as appears by paralleling Josh. 16. 1. with Josh. 18. 12.) and so through the mountains westward, the goings out thereof are at the wilderness of Beth-aven. Whence it turneth towards Luz which is Bethel, south-ward, which now I come to describe.

§ 18. Beth-el, that is, God's house, was so named by Jacob (for formerly it was called Luz ) who here lying on a stone (it matters not how hard our bed, if so heavenly our dreams) saw a Ladder with God on the top thereof, and Angels ascending and descending thereon. Going down to attend on God's children according to their commission, and up to give an account of their attendance, and receive farther instructions. Here Jacob by vow indented with God solemnly to make this place his house, and to give to him at his safe return with bread and water, the tenth of all his substance. But though God over performed his counterpart herein, Jacob neglected his promise, and when his staff was swelled into two bands, set down his staff at Shechem, and turned there a purchaser of a parcel of ground, till God minded him of his former obligation, Arise , go up to Bethel, and dwell there &c.

§ 19. Most happy that man who runs the way of God's commandments, and next him he is the best, who answers the spur, and with Jacob goeth, when almost driven. Hither he comes (having first reformed his family of Idolatry) and here built an Altar called El-beth-el. During his abode here died Deborah Rebekah's nurse, venerable for her old age, having seen her nurse-child's children's children, to the fourth generation. Surely she was well loved whilst living, because so much lamented when dead, buried under Allon Bachuth, or the oak of mourning. As if Jacob's children desired, that their eyes should return that moisture to her in tears, which her breasts had bestowed in milk on their grandmother. Thus, though the Hebrews did not so dote on their nurses, as the wild-Irish (who love them better then their own mothers) yet they had them in an high estimation.

§ 20. In the division of the land, Beth-el fell to the lot of Benjamin. Yet we find that the house of Joseph (understand the Tribe of Ephraim ) wan and possessed it. It seems the City was divided into two parts, the northern pertaining to Ephraim, the southern to Benjamin. In the days of Samuel we find, how he went from year to year in circuit to Beth-el, and Gilgal, and Mizpah, and judged Israel in all these places; which were all three in this Tribe, and in the heart of the Country, conveniently seated for Termers to resort hither from all parts thereof.

§ 21. Here Jeroboam set up one of his golden calves: and how busy was he about sacrificing unto it, when a Prophet sent from God denounced the destruction of his Altar, which presently clave asunder, according to his prediction? An Altar, which (were it of brass or stone) was softer then the miracle-proof heart of Jeroboam, which neither was broken, nor bruised thereat; as also he was no whit moved to repent, with the drying up, and restoring of his hand, which happened thereupon. Indeed he conceived, that his kingdom must have Idolatry for the pillars, which had Rebellion for the foundation thereof: and though Baalism began and ended with the family of Ahab, Calf-worship was rivetted into the Crown of Israel. As for the Prophet that foretold the future ruin of this place, a Lion slew him in his return, because he credited a pretended Revelation Parole unto another man, before a Commission from God to the contrary, solemnly signed and delivered unto himself. See God's finger in the Lions paw, how rationally did the brute-beast work his Masters will, being sent not to prey, but to punish? He killed the Prophet, filled not himself, but with the Ass; stood by the corps, if not as mourners for, as waiters about it. Behold his life spilled, whilst wicked Balaam's was spared in journey, so uncertain it is for any to conclude God's love or hatred from outward events.

§ 22. Elijah and Elisha often visited this City of Beth-el; the latter going up hither was mocked by the children thereof, for lacking the comely excrement of hair on his head, whereupon came two bears out of the wood, and tare two and forty of them. Some will say, Elisha had better have called for two rods, then two Bears out of the wood, therewith to drive out that folly which was bound up in the heart of these children. But his severity will appear needful herein, if all circumstances be considered,

• 1 Probably (though termed children) they were striplings of some bigness, who durst adventure out of the city by the wood-side.
• 2 No doubt the chickens crowed as the cocks had learned them, and followed the precedents of their Idolatrous parents.
• 3 The gemination of their offense, Go up thou bald-head, go up thou bald-head.
• 4 They mocked him as he was going up the way, and it is said, the Prophet turned back, so they continued their taunts whilst he came to them, yea till he was at them, yea when he was past them.
• 5 He looked on them, so that had any ingenuity or remorse been legible in their countenances, no doubt he would have suspended his sentence.
• 6 He cursed in the name of the Lord, not out of spite, but with God's Spirit, and the judgment followed accordingly.

Probably some of them escaped to the City, and there might instruct their mothers and nurses, never more to fright children with fond tales of Bug-bears, but seriously to inform them of the truth of this sorrowful accident.

§ 23. In this City Beth-el there was also a nursery of the Sons of the Prophets. Alas, what heart had they to live here! Could the Stall of the golden calf be a convenient place for them to study in? The frequent and abominable impieties here committed, they could neither behold with silence, nor reprove with safety. However, it seems, they were especially desirous of, and delighted in this place, where God had immediately manifested his gracious presence to Jacob: and we may charitably believe, by the privateness of their lives secured themselves both from pollution and persecution. But for the main, Beth-el was changed into Beth-aven, Scala coeli into Gradus inferni, the Devils then dancing for joy, where once Angels (those holy Agitators) went up and down betwixt heaven and earth. Yea in after-ages it was penal for any pious Prophet to approach this place, such the strictness of the prohibition herein, Prophecy no more at Beth-el, for it is the Kings Chapel, and it is the Kings Court. As if it were against the Law of the Verge for one to draw a sword (though of God's word) within the bounds and precincts of the Palace of the idolatrous Kings of Israel.

§ 24. The last memorable mention that we find of Beth-el, was when Josiah burnt the bones of the idolatrous people on the Altar there. Some will say, he shown little wisdom, and less valor therein, to encounter dead corps. Yea the living found more offense by the stinking, then the dead felt pain by the burning of these bones. Nor was the alteration thereby produced of so great moment, seeing otherwise it would have been dust to dust, and now was ashes to ashes. But we must know that Josiah herein was not acted with principles of cruelty, but moved in obedience to God's command, to fulfill that prophecy some hundred years before foretold of him. Whilest here they were ransacking the sepulchers, behold one solemn grave (the house of the dead) with a stone thereupon, (the door of that house) with an Epitaph on that stone, (the Porter of that door) wherein, on enquiry appeared, that Prophet lay interred, who long since forespake these passages now come to pass. His corps were spared by special command, and with him quietly rested the old Prophet▪ so good is it, (as we have elsewhere observed) to keep good company both in life, and after death. So much of Beth-el, whence the border of Benjamin descended from Ataroth-Adar near the hill which lieth on the south side of the nether Bethoron.

§ 25. In assigning the west border of this Tribe, we meet with a churlish difficulty in the text, drawing the bounds thereof so, as to compass the corner of the sea southward. Here the Quere ariseth, how any part of Benjamin could approach the sea, the Tribe of Dan being interposed betwixt it and the Mediterranean. Rabbi Solomon seeking to salve it, by Sea understands some great water in the west of this Tribe: and what he affirmeth, is proportionable enough to the Hebrew language, terming all watery confluences a Sea, as we have formerly observed. And indeed what is our English word Mere used in the samesense more or less then Mare, or a Sea? I should be inclined to the opinion, that the pool of Gibeon so eminent in Scripture, and styled by Jeremiah, the great waters which are in Gibeon, should be the Sea herein intended. Or if the words of the Text calling it the sea, without any other addition, must be understood of the best and biggest in that kind, (and then can be no other then the Mediterranean sea) then I shall embrace the judgment of learned Macius, interpreting • jam, not the Sea, but the west only; which the propriety of the tongue will well endure.

§ 26. From this western compass (aliàs Sea in other translations) the limits of Benjamin range to Kiriath-jearim, in the confines of this Tribe, where the Ark was Leiger for twenty years, and whence David in a new cart intended to convey it to Jerusalem. This kind of carriage was but Philistine divinity, and a Pagan precedent; not so ordered by Moses in the mount. When the Ark was removed from Shilo, it was set on the Levites shoulders; and I see no reason, why they now should be too good to bear it. Uzzah and Ahio drive the cart. The former with his hand held it from shaking, such his store of good intention, and shaked it with his holding, such his want of due qualification. God striketh him with death, and David is startled thereat. Is this the Ark placed so near the Mercy-seat? Oh how terrible then is the throne of divine Justice! For a time therefore the Ark is set to sojourn in the house of Obed-Edom, where the Land-lord was blessed for go good a guest. Divine ordinances, according as their subject receiveth them, are either cordials or poisons, and the Ark brought • ither a curse or a blessing, whithersoever it came.

§ 27. The place where the former dysast • r happened was called by David Perez-Uzzah, nigh Nachons threshing-floor. We meet with many such places in the Bible, distant from Cities, where husbandmen housed, and beat out their grain, with several inventions: namely,

• 1 With the feet of Oxen treading out the corn.
• 2 By the wheel running over them. Make them O Lord like &c.
• 3 With flailes, which having wooden handles, had their ends armed with iron.

But amongst all their devices, the lazy • rick of the wild Irish, never entered into their brains, who to save pains, burn the straw, so to part the grain from it.

§ 28. So much for the borders of Benjamin. Come we now into the middle thereof, and first we find the waters of Jericho arising in the confines of Ephraim. The naughtiness of this water was m • raculously healed by Elisha putting salt into the fountain thereof. I say miraculously, otherwise that ingredient would rather have made it more brackish, then less bitter. Hence those waters run south-ward to the City of Jericho; whose name (as Munster interprets) signifies having a good savor. Indeed so delicious the situation thereof (after the cure aforesaid wrought by Elisha ) that, had Profit and Pleasure been disposed to solace themselves together, no fitter place could be found for that purpose. Fragrant the flowers, sweet the herbs hereabout; especially the garden of Balsam, which in the days of the Romans, occasioned a quarrel betwixt them and the Jews, who manfully defended it. Happy had the latter been, if as zealous for the substance, as for the shadow, losing their own lives to maintain the type, and taking away his life, who was the truth thereof. Then balsam intended by nature for the curing, was the causing of many wounds, such deadly blows passed betwixt them.

§ 29. Joshua took this City with the sound of Rams horns, whereat the wall fell down to the ground. It troubleth me not to conceive, how the rest of the wall falling flat, Rahab's house built thereon should stand upright: seeing divine power, which miraculously gave the Rule, might accordingly make the Exception. A solemn curse was by Joshua imposed on those who should rebuild the walls of Jericho, so to obliterate the monument of divine power and justice.

§ 30. But Jericho thus dismantled, maintained the reputation of a City, and though not walled with stone for defense, was shaded with trees for pleasure. It is called the City of Palms (where Ehud killed Eglon the corpulent King of Moab ) growing so plentifully round about it. These Palms, or Date-trees had scaly barks, and the boughs were generally used, in all combats of manhood, to crown the conqueror. For, as Erasmus observeth, though several countries, on sundry occasions, had distinct garlands of victory, made of Laurell, Olive, Myrtle, Oak &c. yet the Palme-tree carried away the palm from them all, and was universally entertained as the Emblem of triumph. The worst I wish these trees is, that they may never want store of weight, seeing Naturalists observe, the more they are depressed, the more they flourish.

§ 31. But to return to Jericho; it is ill hollowing in the ears of a sleeping Lion, and worse awaking that dust, which God would have dormant in eternal obscurity. See this in the walls of Jericho, which Hiel the Bethelite affronting heaven built again: and according to Joshua's execration, laid the foundation thereof in Abiram his first borne, and set up the gates thereof in Segub his youngest son; that is, both the one and the other were then destroyed by untimely deaths. Strange that seeing his first son drop away, he desisted not from that design; but such the precipice of bad projects, once step in, and seldom stop in the way of wickedness. Nor can Hiels presumption herein be excused, whatsoever is pretended in his behalf, being led to this act of contempt, by one of these considerations:

• 1 H • mistook Joshua's curse rather for a pathetical expression, then prophetical prediction.
• 2 He conceived the virtue thereof worn out and antiquated, after five hundred years continuance.
• 3 He chose rather to bottom his memory on so famous a structure, then to build it on his posterity, as sooner likely to decay.

However Hiel