It came to pass that seven brothers and their mother were at the king’s command taken and shamefully handled with scourges and cords, to compel them to taste of the abominable swine’s flesh.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 1. Scourges, made of leather thongs; taureis. Bible.—These brethren are styled Machabees; as Judas rendered this name so famous, that all who suffered or fought valiantly for religion in those times, went by this appellation. Josephus has much embellished this history, and Erasmus still more. The tombs of these martyrs were shewn at Antioch. Calmet.—Their names are not known. Bible.—Those who wish to see more, may consult the large discourse of Josephus on the Machabees, ( Worthington.) though this work be contested, and S. Cyp. iv. ep. 6. Saint Ambrose i. of. 40. Saint John Chrysostom Aug. Leo, and so forth Worthington.