Verse 1

Juda. So far Sanctius joins with the former chapter, improperly. In the 4th year, seems rather an interpolation; though the Septuagint omit in the beginning, &c., to reconcile the passage; and others date the 4th year from the last sabbatical one, which is quite unusual. See chap. xxvii. 1. (Calmet) --- Sedecias reigned 11 years, so that the 4th might be said to be the beginning. (Worthington) --- Prophet. Septuagint, "false prophet," to explain the meaning: the original denotes any prophet. (St. Jerome) (Haydock)

Verse 3

Years. Some were brought back in the 4th of Sedecias; (chap. xxvii. 16.; Haydock) so that this must be false, whether he spoke in the 1st or 4th year of his reign. (Calmet)

Verse 6

Do. Hebrew also, "will do." He speaks ironically; or shews that he wishes not the misfortune of his countrymen. (Calmet) --- He approves of the good thing, but warns his people that is is falsely promised. (Worthington)

Verse 9

Truth. This criterion was given by Moses; and another was assigned in case the prophet attempted to introduce idolatry, which was not here the case, Deuteronomy xiii., and xviii. 20. (Calmet)

Verse 10

Chain, or wooden yoke, chap. xxvii. 2. (Haydock)

Verse 12

Way, mildly. God inspired him what to say soon after.

Verse 13

Iron. Deuteronomy xxviii. 48. The rashness of Hananias brought a heavier punishment on his admirers, which is the lot of all who follow heresiarchs. (Haydock)

Verse 17

Seventh month. He had spoken in the 5th of the sacred year, ver. 1. (Calmet)

Verse 19

CHAPTER XXVIII.