so that the priests had no more any zeal for the services of the altar; but despising the sanctuary and neglecting the sacrifices, they hastened to enjoy that which was unlawfully provided in the wrestling arena, after the summons to the discus-throwing.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 14. Temple. Where true religion is abolished, most people follow none; but rather apply themselves to vanity and worse sins. Worthington.—Allowance. They contributed money, (Grot.) or rather strove to obtain the prize. Calmet.—Discus: “a round stone, with a hole in the middle.” Prot. marg. Bible.—People threw it as high or as far as they could, having one foot up and the other under something resembling a pine-apple. This game was very ancient. Odys. θ. Metam. x.—Greek “after the invitation of the discus:” the prize was placed in the midst to excite emulation.