For these, he made an elaborate setting, erecting great pillars around them, and upon the pillars he made suits of armor for a perpetual memorial, and beside the suits of armor, he carved ships, so that they could be seen by all who sail on the sea.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 29. Arms, to denote their victories or solicitude for the people’s welfare both by sea and land. The Machabees had repaired the port of Joppe, by which they traded with the Mediterranean. Calmet. 10:75. and 14:5. Trophies of arms, in reality or in sculpture, were commonly placed on the tombs of great generals. Ezekiel 32:27. Virg. Calmet.—Simon promoted not vain but true glory, exciting others to imitate the virtuous. Worthington.—The humble desire honour in God; proud men will be honoured more than God. Saint Augustine c. Secund. xvii.—How many epitaphs record the ambition and vices of men! Those which praise real virtues extend the glory of God, who is the author of them all. Worthington.