Verse 1
Seven. Many shall sue for a husband, men shall be so scarce. To continue unmarried was reproachful, Deuteronomy vii. 14. (Calmet) --- After the conversion of the Gentiles, pastors will be much wanted. (Worthington)
Verse 2
Bud. That is, Christ, (Challoner) who was faintly prefigured by Zorobabel, Zacharias iii. 8. Our Saviour was the fruit of the earth, and sovereign Lord. (Calmet)
Verse 3
Life. Only the faithful shall be saved. (Worthington) --- The Jews, after the captivity, shall be more obedient. But converts to the faith of Christ are styled saints, (Romans i. 7., &c.) such particularly as are predestined to glory, Romans viii. 30. (Calmet) --- Those who are called to life and the true faith, may forfeit this honour, by their own fault. (Menochius)
Verse 4
Burning. By baptism of water and fire, or of the Holy Ghost. (St. Jerome)
Verse 5
Protection. God will protect his Church, more than he did the Israelites by the pillar, Exodus xiv. 20. (St. Basil, &c.)
Verse 26
CHAPTER IV.