Jeremiah 42

Pray; consult, ver. 4., and chap. xxxvii. 3. (Haydock)

Few; comparatively, though there was a great number, chap. xliii. 5.

Witness. Jeremias knew their fickle temper. They will obey, only if God comply with their desires. (Calmet)

They began with piety, but soon refused to obey the directions given, chap. xliii. 2. (Worthington)

Good or evil. That is, agreeable or disagreeable. (Challoner)

It would have been well for them if they had been sincere, (ver. 10.; Haydock) and determined to comply whether the prophet announced prosperity or the reverse. (Worthington)

Days. The Spirit breathes where he will, and the prophets must wait his good time. Jeremias prayed for ten days in that place. He now resumes his discourse, chap. xl 1.

Appeased. Hebrew, “comforted.” Septuagint, “at rest.” I forget (Calmet) or pardon (Haydock) the past.

And will. Hebrew, “and he will.” The king will take pity on you.

Dwell. Septuagint, “return;” which is less correct.

Faces; obstinately, ver. 17., and chap. xliv. 12.

Kindled. Hebrew, “hath dropped,” 2 Paralipomenon xii. 7.

Curse. People can wish no greater misery to their enemies. (Calmet)

They shall be execrated, Isaias lxv. 15. (Worthington)

Deceived. Septuagint, “done ill in your souls.” Your intention was bad. You thought that I should speak conformably to your wishes. (Calmet)

He saw by the prophetic light, or by their deportment, that they were bent on going. (Haydock)

They were doubly guilty in neither observing their promise nor obeying God’s decree. (Worthington)