Matthew Henry on 1 Kings 20:31–end
Here is an account of what followed upon the victory which Israel obtained over the Syrians.
I. Ben-hadad's tame and mean submission. Even in his inner chamber he feared, and would, if he could, flee further, though none pursued. His servants, seeing him and themselves reduced to the last extremity, advised that they should surrender at discretion, and make themselves prisoners and petitioners to Ahab for their lives, Kg1 20:31. The servants will put their lives in their hands, and venture first, and their master will act according as they speed. Their inducement to take this course is the great reputation the kings of Israel had for clemency above any of their neighbours: "We have heard tha…
Read the whole note in the consoleJamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 20:39
a talent of silver--£342.
Next: 1 Kings Chapter 21
Adam Clarke on 1 Kings 20:39
Keep this man - The drift of this is at once seen; but Ahab, not knowing it, was led to pass sentence on himself.
John Gill on 1 Kings 20:39
And as the king passed by, he cried unto the king,.... With a loud voice, signifying he had something to say unto him, at which he stopped:
and he said, thy servant went out into the midst of the battle; this was not real, but fictitious, an apologue, fable, or parable, by which he would represent to Ahab his own case, and bring him under conviction of his folly, just as Nathan dealt with David:
and, behold, a man turned aside; a superior officer in the army:
and brought a man unto me; he had made a prisoner of:
and said, keep this man; do not let him escape:
if by any means he be missing, then shall thy life be for his life, or else thou shalt pay a talent of silver; if he let him go w…
Read the whole note in the consoleKeil & Delitzsch
