Adam Clarke's Bible Commentary Verse 2. Battering rams] µyrk carim. This is the earliest account we have of this military engine. It was a long beam with a head of brass, like the head and horns of a ram, whence its name. It was hung by chains or ropes, between two beams, or three legs, so that it could admit of being drawn backward and forward some yards. Several stout men, by means of ropes, pulled it as far back as it could go, and then, suddenly letting it loose, it struck with great force against the wall which it was intended to batter and bring down. This machine was not known in the time of Homer, as in the siege of Troy there is not the slightest mention of such. And the first notice we have of it is here, where we see that it was employed by Nebuchadnezzar in the siege of Jerusalem, A.M. 3416. It was afterwards used by the Carthaginians at the siege of Gades, as Vitruvius otes, lib.
x. c. 19, in which he gives a circumstantial account of the invention, fabrication, use, and improvement of this machine. It was for the want of a machine of this kind, that the ancient sieges lasted so long; they had nothing with which to beat down or undermine the walls.
Matthew Henry Commentary
- The prophet is directed what he is to do. (Ezek. 2:1-5) And encourage to be resolute, faithful, and devoted. (Ezek. 2:6-10)
Ezek. 2:1-5 Lest Ezekiel should be lifted up with the abundance of the revelations, he is put in mind that still he is a son of man, a weak mortal creature. As Christ usually called himself the Son of man, it was also an honourable distinction. Ezekiel's posture showed reverence but his standing up would be a posture of greater readiness and fitnes for business. God will speak to us, when we stand ready to do what he commands us. As Ezekiel had not strength of his own, the Spirit entere into him. God is graciously pleased to work in us whatever he require of us. The Holy Spirit sets us upon our feet, by inclining our wills to our duty. Thus, when the Lord calls upon the sinner to awake, an attend to the concerns of his soul, the Spirit of life and grace come with the call. Ezekiel is sent with a message to the children of Israel. Many might treat his message with contempt, yet they shoul know by the event that a prophet had been sent to them. God will be glorified, and his word made honourable, whether it be a savour of lif unto life, or of death unto death.
Ezek. 2:6-10 Those who will do any thing to purpose in the service of God, must not fear men. Wicked men are as briers and thorns; but the are nigh unto cursing, and their end is to be burned. The prophet mus be faithful to the souls of those to whom he was sent. All who spea from God to others, must obey his voice. The discoveries of sin, an the warnings of wrath, should be matter of lamentation. And thos acquainted with the word of God, will clearly perceive it is fille with woe to impenitent sinners; and that all the precious promises of the gospel are for the repenting, believing servants of the Lord _________________________________________________
Original Hebrew ונתתה5414 עליה5921 מצור4692 ובנית1129 עליה5921 דיק1785 ושׁפכת8210 עליה5921 סללה5550 ונתתה5414 עליה5921 מחנות4264 ושׂים7760 עליה5921 כרים3733 סביב׃5439
