_Speak. The cause of the different families of the Levites now being fully decided, that one of the other tribes might pretend to the honour of the priesthood, God orders Moses to propose another miracle to them, of a less terrible nature than the preceding one. --- Man, or prince of the tribe. (Hay... [ Continue Reading ]
_They murmur. Hence it seems this miracle was not unnecessary, as the people were still inclined to murmur at the pre-eminence given to Aaron. (Haydock)_... [ Continue Reading ]
_Besides, &c. Hebrew and the other versions, "the rod of Aaron was in the midst of their rods." Whence some infer, that there were only 12 rods. But Origen, (hom. 9,) and most others, allow 13, as the tribe of Joseph was divided into those of Ephraim and Manasses; (Calmet) each of whom had a proper... [ Continue Reading ]
The rod of Aaron for the house of Levi, was budded, &c. This rod of Aaron, which thus miraculously brought forth fruit, was a figure of the blessed Virgin conceiving and bringing forth her Son, without any prejudice to her virginity. (Challoner) --- Almonds. Buds, blossoms, leaves, and fruit just fo... [ Continue Reading ]
_Testimony. St. Paul (Hebrews ix. 4,) says it was in the ark. See Deuteronomy xxxi. 26. (Calmet) --- It was not the rod with which so many miracles had been wrought. (Tirinus)_... [ Continue Reading ]
_All perish. Many had been already destroyed. Those who remained, and were conscious of their seditious practices, feared a similar treatment. (Haydock)_... [ Continue Reading ]
_Destroyed. They betray the sentiments of their hearts; though some believe that they were now entering into themselves, and desirous to know what they must do to escape the fate of their brethren. God gives them an answer in the following chapter, teaching them that they must refrain from approachi... [ Continue Reading ]
CHAPTER XVII.... [ Continue Reading ]