1 Chronicles 20

Year. Hebrew, “at the return of the year,” in spring. (Calmet)

Melchom. Septuagint add the explanation, “their king.” It may also be referred to the idol of Ammon. (Haydock)

The massy crown was suspended over David’s head. (Tirinus) (Du Hamel)

Harrows. Hebrew, “cut them with saws, and with harrows; (Haydock) or, rollers of iron, and with saws.” But some other term was probably used, as we find saws before. (Calmet)

Protestants have “axes.” This exemplary punishment was in consequence of the violation of the law of nations. Abulensis pronounced it lawful. Tirinus accuses David of a grievous sin of cruelty; observing that he was at this time involved in the sin of adultery: and people easily fall from one abyss into another. Cruelty and lust often go together. Yet it seems best to suspend our judgment. (Haydock)

David might only treat the most guilty in this manner. (Du Hamel)

Gazer, which seems preferable to Gob, 2 Kings xxi. 18.

Adeodatus. Hebrew, “Elchanan, the son of Jair, of Lehem;” or, “slew Lechemi, brother of Goliath;” or equal to him in strength. (Calmet)

Brother is here supplied, as it is wanting, 2 Kings. (Du Hamel)

Rapha, head of the giants of Palestine. (Calmet)