“The bramble said to the trees, ‘If in truth you anoint me king over you, then come and take refuge in my shade; and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.’
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 15. Shadow or protection, Psalms 16:8. Baruc. 1:12. Calmet.—Joatham hints at the insolence of Abimelech, ( Bible.) and foretels that he and his foolish subjects will soon be at variance, and destroy each other. Fire is often put for war. The people of Sichem began soon to despise their new king, and he made war upon them, and destroyed their city; though the people afterwards took ample revenge, verse 20. Calmet.—Tyrants promise much, but their rage soon falls upon the more wealthy and powerful citizens, ( Bible.) here signified by the cedars. Menochius.