Behold, if it goes up by the way of its own border to Beth Shemesh, then he has done us this great evil; but if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand that struck us. It was a chance that happened to us.”
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 9. Way. Josephus observes, that they stationed the kine at three lane ends; ( Bible.) and, as we may infer from the Hebrew (verse 12,) rather with their heads turned from Bethsames. But, by this conduct, did they not tempt God? Some believe that He inspired them on this occasion, ( E.) that even his enemies might be convinced, ( Bible.) the grace of prophecy being frequently granted to wicked men, like Balaam: others believe that He gave success to their plan, though it was dictated by superstition. Even the devil sometimes speaks the truth. Mendoza. Calmet.—People frequently use to pitch upon signs, to which God often assented. Proverbs 16:33. Menochius. Genesis 24:14. Bible.