Only he didn’t buy the land of the priests, for the priests had a portion from Pharaoh, and ate their portion which Pharaoh gave them. That is why they didn’t sell their land.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 22. Priests. This was done by the king’s direction, as they were probably idolaters. Menochius.—The immunities of the sacred ministers have been respected both by Pagans, Jews, and Christians; by all who have had any sentiments of religion. Reason dictates that they should live by the altar. They have to labour for the truest interests of the people, and consequently are worthy of their hire.—Which had been given, and so forth Inasmuch as their wants were supplied, and the king forebore to claim their land. Hebrew “only the land of the priests he, Joseph, bought not.” Bible.—If infidels did so much for their priests, ought we to do less for those of God? Saint John Chrysostom hom. 65. Worthington.