The Moabites, who had once lorded over Israel Judges 3:12, were reduced to subjection by David, and treated with extreme severity (marginal reference). In the time of Ahab they were dependent on the kingdom of Israel, to which it has been generally supposed that they fell at the separation of Israel... [ Continue Reading ]
A LATTICE - The “upper chamber” had probably a single latticed window, through which Ahaziah fell. Windows in the East are to this day generally closed by lattices of interlaced wood, which open outward; so that, if the fastening is not properly secured, one who leans against them may easily fall ou... [ Continue Reading ]
THEREFORE ... - As a punishment for this insult to Yahweh.... [ Continue Reading ]
AN HAIRY MAN - Either in allusion to his shaggy cloak of untanned skin; or, more probably, an expression descriptive of the prophet’s person, of his long flowing locks, abundant beard, and general profusion of hair. His costume was that of a thorough ascetic. Generally the Jews wore girdles of linen... [ Continue Reading ]
THEN THE KING SENT UNTO HIM - i. e., in order to seize and punish him. Compare 1 Kings 18:10; 1 Kings 22:27.... [ Continue Reading ]
The charge of cruelty made against Elijah makes it needful to consider the question: What was Elijah’s motive? And the answer is: Sharply to make a signal example, to vindicate God’s honor in a striking way. Ahaziah had, as it were, challenged Yahweh to a trial of strength by sending a band of fifty... [ Continue Reading ]
The similarity of names in the two royal houses of Israel and Judah at this time, and at no other, seems to be the consequence of the close ties which united the two reigning families, and is well noted among the “undesigned coincidences” of the Old Testament. The accession of the Israelite Jehoram... [ Continue Reading ]