THE DEFEAT OF THE SYRIANS CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES.— 1 Kings 20:1. BENHADAD—Son of the king of the same name mentioned (chap. 1 Kings 15:20). THIRTY AND TWO KINGS WITH HIM—Vassals or viceroys who ruled single cities or districts (_comp._ Joshua 12:7). WITH HIM—אִתּוֹ not confederated as equa... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES.— 1 Kings 20:22. AT THE RETURN OF THE YEAR—לִתְשׁוּבת השָׁנָה. with the beginning of the year—the spring—until which time the winter rains would prevent another campaign. 1 Kings 20:24. PUT CAPTAINS IN THEIR ROOMS—Not mere military ornaments, but experienced warriors... [ Continue Reading ]
CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES.— 1 Kings 20:33. MEN DID DILIGENTLY OBSERVE—Took his words as a good omen. DID HASTILY CATCH IT—Hastened to seize or quote the words, “my brother.” Ahab found his vanity flattered by their abject suit, and, losing sense and wit, yielded to a sentimental magnanimity.... [ Continue Reading ]