Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - 1 Samuel 6:19-21
Here is, 1. The sin of the men of Beth-shemesh: They looked into the ark of the Lord, 1 Sam. 6:19. Every Israelite had heard great talk of the ark, and had been possessed with a profound veneration for it; but they had been told that it was lodged within a veil, and even the high priest himself might not look upon it but once a year, and then through a cloud of incense. Perhaps this made many say (as we are apt to covet that which is forbidden) what a great deal they would give for a sight of... read more
Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - 1 Samuel 6:10-18
We are here told, I. How the Philistines dismissed the ark, 1 Sam. 6:10, 11. They were made as glad to part with it as ever they had been to take it. As God had fetched Israel out of the house of bondage, so now he fetched the ark out of its captivity, in such a manner as that Egypt was glad when they departed, Ps. 105:38. 1. They received no money or price for the ransom of it, as they hoped to do, even beyond a king's ransom. Thus it is prophesied of Cyrus (Isa. 45:13), He shall let go my... read more