and that the Jews and the priests were well pleased that Simon should be their leader and high priest forever, until there should arise a faithful prophet;
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 41. Prophet. This limitation was proper, as the people had chosen this family. The Jews expected the faithful prophet shortly. Calmet. 4:46. Malachi 3:1. Agg. 2:7. God was pleased that none should appear for some time before that event. Calmet.—The high priesthood continued in this family till Herod began to sell it,—soon after which Christ appeared. Worthington.—The sceptre seemed to belong to Juda. Yet they consent to be governed by Levites, till God signify his will by some prophet. Menochius.—This consent of the nation, in which Juda was most powerful, shews that the sceptre was not departed from his thigh. Bible.