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+<title>Female Scripture Biography, Vol. 1 - by Francis Augustus Cox</title>
+
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Female Scripture Biographies, Vol. I, by 
+Francis Augustus Cox
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Female Scripture Biographies, Vol. I
+
+Author: Francis Augustus Cox
+
+Posting Date: November 15, 2011 [EBook #9782]
+Release Date: January, 2006
+First Posted: October 15, 2003
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FEMALE SCRIPTURE BIOS, VOL 1 ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Distributed Proofreaders
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+<h1>Female Scripture Biography:</h1>
+
+<h2>Including an Essay on What Christianity Has Done for Women.</h2>
+
+<h3>By Francis Augustus Cox, A.M.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>"It is a necessary charity to the (female) sex to acquaint them with their
+own value, to animate them to some higher thoughts of themselves, not to
+yield their suffrage to those injurious estimates the world hath made of
+them, and from a supposed incapacity of noble things, to neglect the
+pursuit of them, from which God and nature have no more precluded the
+feminine than the masculine part of mankind."</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>The Ladies' Calling, Pref.</blockquote>
+
+
+
+<h4>VOL. I.</h4>
+
+<h4>BOSTON:<br />
+LINCOLN &amp; EDMANDS. <br />
+1831.</h4>
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="preface"></a>Preface.</h2>
+
+
+
+<p>Notwithstanding the variety of theological publications of a devotional
+class, which are perpetually issuing from the press, the author concurs in
+the opinion of those who think they can scarcely be too numerous. It may
+reasonably be hoped, that in proportion to the multiplication of works of
+this kind, the almost incalculable diversities of taste will be suited;
+and that those who may be disinclined to one style of writing, or to a
+particular series of subjects, may be allured by their predilections to
+the perusal of others.</p>
+
+<p>Amidst the general plenty, however, there is one department which
+experiences a degree of scarcity--a department to which these volumes
+properly belong. Pious families require a supply of religious reading,
+adapted to occupy the intervals of business, the hours of devotion, and
+the time which is often and properly appropriated to domestic instruction
+in the evenings of the Christian Sabbath. To have the minds of the young
+directed at such seasons, not only to the truths of religion in general,
+but the more attractive parts of Scripture in particular, seems highly
+important. By a happy combination of amusement and instruction, piety is
+divested of her formality, and clothed with fascination: the ear is
+caught, and the heart gained; while the narrative interests, the best
+lessons become impressed even upon the gay and the trifling; and he who,
+when summoned to the social circle, sat down with reluctance, may rise up
+with regret.</p>
+
+<p>Whoever has been blessed with the advantages of a religious education, and
+recurs to his own years of juvenile susceptibility, cannot forget the
+strong impressions he received by these means; and must have had frequent
+occasion to remark the tenaciousness with which they have lingered in his
+memory, and sprung up amidst his recollections at every subsequent period.
+In many cases they have proved the basis, of future eminence in piety,
+and blended delightfully with the gladdening retrospections of declining
+life. In those instances, where all the good effects which might be
+anticipated did not appear, these early lessons have checked the
+impetuousity of passion, neutralized the force of temptation, and
+cherished the convictions of an incipient piety.</p>
+
+<p>The writer of the following pages is aware of the just celebrity acquired
+by some of his predecessors in the same line of composition, and he might
+have felt wholly deterred from pursuing his design, by an apprehension of
+having been superseded by the elegant and comprehensive lectures of
+HUNTER, and the simple, perspicuous, and devotional biography of ROBINSON,
+had he not remarked that their notices of the women in Scripture formed
+but a small proportion of their respective works, and that the present
+performance might be very properly considered as a continuation of their
+volumes, particularly of those of the latter author.</p>
+
+<p>It will be seen, that some of the same characters which have been given in
+preceding writers, appear in the "Female Scripture Biography;" but the
+reader may perhaps be conciliated to this seeming repetition, by being
+reminded that they were necessarily retouched, in order to complete the
+series; while the writer satisfies himself with the reflection that,
+whatever subjects are deduced from Scripture, are not only unexhausted,
+but will forever remain inexhaustible. The "wells of salvation," from
+which preceding ages have drawn, still afford to us, and will supply to
+far-distant generations, the same spiritual, copious, and unfailing
+refreshment.</p>
+
+<p>The Introductory Essay to the second volume, respecting the influence of
+Christianity on the condition of the female sex, has been somewhat
+divested of that literary cast which it might have been expected to
+assume, the better to accord with the general drift of the work. The
+reader will, it is confidently anticipated, deem, it no
+unacceptable addition.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>Contents of Vol. I.</h2>
+
+
+
+<p><a href="#preface">Preface</a></p>
+
+
+<p><a href="#01">Eve--Chapter I</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Superiority of man in the universe: present degradation of reason: the
+  mere philosopher and the Christian contrasted: God seen in all his
+  works: creation of man: his corporeal and mental constitution: value of
+  the soul: Adam in paradise: alone: supplied with a help meet: Revelation
+  points out the true dignity of the female character: one woman given to
+  the man: the fall: aggravated and complex nature of the sin of Eve:
+  consequences, the loss of Eden: loss of the favour of God: loss of life:
+  ruin of posterity: remarks to obviate some difficulties attaching to
+  this subject in general.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#02">Sarah--Chapter II</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Abraham's departure from Chaldea: his faith: its failure: Sarah and
+  Abraham agree to prevaricate: the admonition which Sarah attracted:
+  Abraham's dismissal from the country of Egypt: beauty and dress:
+  importance of a proper education: parental vanity: source of real
+  attraction: Sarah proposes to Abraham to take Hagar: unhappy
+  consequencies: Hagar's flight and return: visit of three angels: Sarah's
+  laughter at the subject of their commission: her subsequent character:
+  general remarks: birth of Isaac: Ishmael's conduct, and its
+  consequences: Sarah's death.
+</blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#03">Hagar--Chapter III</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Retrospective glance at the history: Hagar: the wilderness: angelic
+  manifestation: divine promises: a view of their accomplishment: Hagar's
+  piety: her second banishment and distress: another interposition:
+  Providence illustrated. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#04">Lot's Wife--Chapter IV</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Delusions to which the young in particular are exposed: Lot's erroneous
+  choice: sin brings punishment: advantages of Lot's wife: her remarkable
+  deliverance: her guilt: general causes of apostacy traced, fear, love of
+  the world, levity of mind, pride: doom of Lot's wife. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#05">Rebekah--Chapter V</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#05-1">Section I.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Progress of time: patriarchal mode of living: Abraham's solicitude
+  respecting the settlement of his son: sends a servant to procure him a
+  wife: his arrival in the vicinity of Nahor: his meeting with Rebekah:
+  her behaviour, and then conversation: the good qualities already
+  discoverable in Rebekah, which render her worthy of imitation: her
+  industrious and domesticated habits: unaffected simplicity: modesty:
+  courtesy: humanity.</blockquote>
+
+<p><a href="#05-2">Section II.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  The Servant of Abraham cordially received into the house of Laban
+  tells his story: proposes to take Rebekah: consent of her family: her
+  readiness to go: the interview with Isaac: Rebekah becomes his wife:
+  their anxieties: birth of Jacob and Esau: Isaac's death-bed, and
+  Rebekah's unwarrantable proceedings: her solicitude respecting her son's
+  future conduct. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#06">Miriam--Chapter VI.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Proceedings of the new King of Egypt: birth of Moses: conduct of Miriam:
+  preservation of Moses: escape of Israel: Miram's zeal in celebrating the
+  event: her character formed by early advantages: contrasted with
+  Michael: she engages with Aaron in a plot against Moses: God observes
+  it and punishment of leprosy inflicted upon Miriam: her cure: dies at
+  Kadesh: general remarks on slander: debasing nature of sin: hope of
+  escaping punishment fallacious: danger of opposing Christ: exhortation
+  to imitate the temper of Moses. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#07">Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth--Chapter VII.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#07-1">Section I.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  History of domestic life most instructive: book of Ruth: sketch of the
+  Family of Elimelech while residing in Moab: reflections arising out of
+  a view of their circumstances: Naomi's resolution to return, and that of
+  her daughters in-law to accompany her: Orpah soon quits her mother and
+  sister: her character, and that of Ruth: requirements of religion:
+  arrival of Naomi and Ruth at Bethlehem: feelings of the former.</blockquote>
+
+<p><a href="#07-2">Section II.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Time of the return to Bethlehem: Ruth offers to go and glean:
+  disposition indicated by this proposal: she happens upon the field of
+  Boaz: his kindness: their conversation: additional favours: Ruth's
+  return home: her mother-in-law's wish to connect her in marriage with
+  Boaz: the measures she suggests, and which her daughter adopts with
+  ultimate success: their marriage: birth of a son: concluding remarks. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#08">Deborah--Chapter VIII.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#08-1">Section I.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Historical retrospect: Deborah sitting as a judge and prophetess under a
+  palm-tree: sends to Barak to confront Sisera: accompanies him
+  preparations for battle: victorious result: death of Sisera:
+  reflections.</blockquote>
+
+<p><a href="#08-2">Section II.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Capacity of Deborah as a poetess: paraphrase of her remarkable song
+  composed to celebrate the victory over Sisera. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#09">Manoah's Wife--Chapter IX.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  State of Israel: appearance of an angel to the wife of Manoah: she
+  communicates the design of his visit to her husband: second
+  manifestation from heaven: result of the interview: reflection of
+  Manoah's wife stated and analyzed: considerations deducible from the
+  narrative: to avoid precipitancy of judgment: to avow our convictions at
+  every suitable opportunity: to feel assured that the providence of God
+  does never really, though it may apparently, contradict his word. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#10">Hannah--Chapter X.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#10-1">Section I.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Religion a source of peace: account of Elkanah and his two wives:
+  Peninnah reproaches Hannah: sin of despising others for their
+  infirmities: the family at Shiloh: Elkanah endeavours to console his
+  wife: her conduct and prayer: Eli's unjust imputation: Hannah's defence,
+  and her accuser's retraction: return from Shiloh: birth of Samuel:
+  his weaning.</blockquote>
+
+<p><a href="#10-2">Section II.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Samuel is devoted to the service of the sanctuary: uniformity of
+  character exemplified in Hannah: her song paraphrased: five other
+  children born to Hannah: view of her natural kindness and
+  self-denying piety. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#11">Abigail--Chapter XI.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Many persons naturally capable of great attainments and elevated
+  stations have lived and died unknown: the dispensations of Providence
+  analogous in this respect to the arrangements of nature: Scripture
+  account of Nabal and Abigail: sources of incongruous marriages:
+  ambition: wish to maintain the respectability of a family: persuasion of
+  friends: early disappointments: Nabal's conduct to David: Abigail's
+  interposition: death of her husband: she becomes David's wife. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#12">The Queen of Sheba--Chapter XII.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  David's anxiety for his son: its happy issue: Solomon's prayer and the
+  answer of God: Solomon's riches and fame: the queen of Sheba's visit:
+  her country ascertained: such solicitude for wisdom not common: she
+  proves Solomon with hard questions, her desire of knowledge worthy of
+  imitation: Solomon's conduct: his buildings: the queen's congratulatory
+  address: reflections: her presents to Solomon, and his to the queen of
+  Sheba, Christ's application of the subject. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#13">The Shunammite--Chapter XIII.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#13-1">Section I.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Characteristic difference between profane and sacred history: the
+  Shunammite introduced: her hospitality; proposes to her husband to
+  accommodate Elisha with a chamber: the gratitude manifested by the
+  prophet in offering to speak for her to the king: her reply expressive
+  of contentment: various considerations calculated to promote this
+  disposition, advantages of a daily and deep impression of the transitory
+  nature of our possessions, and of keeping another life in view.</blockquote>
+
+<p><a href="#13-2">Section II.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  Elisha promises a son to the Shunammite: his birth: his sudden death in
+  consequence of being sun smitten: She replies to the prophet her
+  expression of profound submission to the will of God: her subsequent
+  impassioned appeal to Elisha: the child restored to life: the
+  Shunammite's removal into Philistra, and return: her successful
+  application to the king for the restoration of her property. </blockquote>
+
+
+<p><a href="#14">Esther--Chapter XIV.</a></p>
+
+<blockquote>  The feasts of the king of Persia: his queen Vashti sent for her refusal
+  to obey the summons: her divorce: plan to fill up the vacancy: Esther
+  chosen queen: Morder detects a conspiracy declines paying homage to
+  Haman; resentment of the latter, who obtains a decree against the Jews:
+  Mordecai's grief, and repeated applications to Esther: she goes in to
+  the king, is accepted: invites the king and Haman to a banquet:
+  mortification of the latter at Mordecai's continued neglect: orders a
+  gallows to be built for the disrespectful Jew: the honour conferred by
+  the king upon Mordecai for his past zeal in his service: Haman's
+  indignation: is fetched to a second banquet: Esther tells her feelings
+  and accuses Haman: his confusion and useless entreaties: he is hung on
+  his own gallows: Mordecai's advancement: escape of the Jews by the
+  intercession of Esther: feast of Purim.</blockquote>
+
+
+
+
+
+<h1>Female Scripture Biography.</h1>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="01"></a>Eve.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter I.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  Superiority of Man in the Universe--Present Degradation of Reason--The
+  mere Philosopher and the Christian Contrasted--God seen in all his
+  Works--Creation of Man--His Corporeal and Mental Constitution--Value of
+  the Soul--Adam in Paradise--Alone--Supplied with a Help Meet--Revelation
+  points out the True Dignity of the Female Character--One Woman given to
+  the Man--The Fall--Aggravated and complex Nature of the Sin of
+  Eve--Consequences, the Loss of Eden--Loss of the Favour of God--Loss of
+  Life--Ruin of Posterity--Remarks to obviate some Difficulties attaching
+  to this subject in general.</blockquote>
+
+<p>What a glorious pre-eminence in the creation, has Infinite Wisdom assigned
+to the human species! As the skilful architect finishes his performance by
+the most exquisite specimens of workmanship, so "the great Builder of this
+varied frame," after the formation of <i>matter</i>, proceeded to impart
+<i>life</i>, to communicate <i>instinct</i>, and to inspire reason. "And God said,
+Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have
+<i>dominion</i> over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and
+over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing
+that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his <i>own image</i>; in
+the image of God created he him; male and female created he them."</p>
+
+<p>The superiority of man to <i>matter</i>, however fair, to <i>life</i> however
+pleasing, to <i>instinct</i> however perfect, appears in this, that he only is
+capable of contemplating and admiring the works of God--he only has an
+eye that opens upon the heavens, and a mind adapted to receive impressions
+from their diversified glories.</p>
+
+<p>But even <i>reason</i>, in its present state, is so degraded, that the wonders
+of creative wisdom are, in a considerable degree, overlooked or
+undervalued. The heavens, with all their stars, and suns, and systems,
+exhibit few beauties to the great mass of inattentive spectators; and the
+observance of them, by day and by night, excites no correspondent
+emotions. All is a blank! Plunged into an abyss of cares and anxieties,
+chained to the oar of constant, unvarying labour; and solicitous only "to
+buy and sell, and get gain," to <i>them</i> "the heavens declare the glory of
+God, and the firmament showeth his handywork" almost in vain!</p>
+
+<p>Nor can it escape observation, that valuable as the discoveries of
+philosophy are, the <i>mere discoverer</i> who converts his knowledge to no
+pious purpose, is the most infatuated of human beings. While he
+contemplates distances, magnitudes, and number--while he investigates the
+laws of motion, and the phenomena of nature--while he points the telescope
+to gaze on fiery comets, to pursue wandering planets in their orbits, to
+detect hitherto undiscovered globes of matter in the fields of space,
+merely to gratify curiosity or to acquire fame--the Christian contemplates
+the scene with another eye, and with far different sentiments. He sees
+GOD in all. "This," says he, "is <i>his</i> creation--this the work of <i>his</i>
+fingers--these the productions of <i>his</i> skill"--"by <i>his</i> spirit he hath
+garnished the heavens"--<i>he</i> hath appointed "the sweet influences of the
+Pleiades, and looseth the bands of Orion"--<i>he</i> "bringeth forth Mazzaroth
+in his season, and guides Arcturus with his sons." Yonder sun was formed
+and fixed by <i>his</i> mighty power--that moon, which walks forth in
+brightness, and those stars, which glitter on the robe of night, were
+kindled by <i>his</i> energy, and shine by <i>his</i> command.--"Lift up your eyes
+on high, and behold WHO hath created these things, that bringeth out their
+host by number; he calleth them all by names."</p>
+
+<p>The God of <i>nature</i> is the God of <i>truth</i>, the God of <i>revelation</i>, and
+the God of <i>Israel</i>. If the Christian contemplate the firmament, or look
+into the Bible, he sees the same Being. His operations are diverse, but it
+is the same God. If he go, like Isaac, "into the fields to meditate at the
+eventide," he meets with God in every leaf, in every stream, and in every
+star; if he enter into his closet to read the Scriptures, still he finds
+God in every page and in every truth; or if he pray, it is to "his FATHER
+who seeth in secret." He may change his place, but he can never remove
+from this lovely presence. "Nevertheless, I am continually with thee."
+Hence nature shines with new glory in his eyes. God in the <i>sun</i>, conducts
+him by a delightful association of ideas, and a frequent train of
+reflection, to "God in <i>Christ</i>, reconciling the world unto himself, not
+imputing their trespasses unto them."</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 4004.]</p>
+
+<p>Creation was the work of six days, upon the third of which, the earth was
+formed, and clothed with vegetative fertility; on the last "the Lord God
+formed MAN of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the
+breath of life; and man became a living soul." It is for this reason that
+Eternal Wisdom is represented as "rejoicing in the habitable part of his
+earth, and her delights were with the sons of men." The <i>uninhabited</i> part
+of the earth is surely worthy of divine complacency. It forms a portion of
+that universe which the Supreme Architect at first pronounced to be "very
+good." The most retired places of this terrestrial globe, those extensive
+deserts which were never printed by the human foot, those dens and caves,
+deep valleys and cloud-encircled mountains, where silence and solitude
+have reigned from the beginning of time, contain innumerable
+manifestations of wisdom, power, and goodness. Wisdom might rejoice in a
+thousand wonders that lie concealed within the bowels of the earth, or in
+the caverns of the ocean, a world of mineral productions which our utmost
+research fails to discover; but the <i>habitable</i> part of the earth has ever
+excited the highest interest, as the residence of his intelligent
+creature, and the anticipated scene where the mediatorial work of his
+beloved Son was to be accomplished.</p>
+
+<p>Man has been called "an abridgment of the universe," [<a href="#foot1">1</a>] uniting in
+himself in the extremes of being; in his body connected with the material,
+in his soul with the spiritual world;--by his corporeal constitution a fit
+inhabitant of the earth; by his intellectual faculties, a suitable tenant
+of the skies.</p>
+
+<p>The soul of man constitutes the perfection of his nature, being destined
+to survive the dissolution of his body, and capable of everlasting
+progression in knowledge and felicity. And here a vast, an illimitable
+field of observation presents itself to view; but we must pass by it with
+only one practical remark. The welfare of this immortal soul ought to
+become the object of our principal solicitude. Considering the extent of
+its capacities, the indissoluble nature of its constituent principles, the
+novel and interesting circumstances under which it will hereafter exist,
+its total incompetency to provide for itself under those amazing
+vicissitudes which it is destined to undergo in a change of worlds, and
+the unalterable perpetuity of its future condition, how inconsiderate and
+how presumptuous must that individual be who neglects its interests, and
+acts in constant hostility to the first great law of nature,
+SELF-PRESERVATION! The protomartyr of the Christian age evinced a wise
+anxiety when he exclaimed in his dying moments, "Lord Jesus, receive my
+<i>spirit</i>." He was aware that his body would soon be consigned by the fury
+of persecution to its native dust; but this excited comparatively little
+concern. To him it was of no importance whether his grave was with the
+rich or the poor, whether his burying-place were an obscure or an
+illustrious spot: he was anxious for the salvation of his <i>soul</i>.
+Unhappily, mankind in general lavish all their cares upon the body, to
+embellish or preserve it, to pamper its appetites, or to minister to its
+artificial necessities: but what an infatuation is it, to provide for that
+which perishes, and to be careless of that which is immortal--to decorate
+the walls, and to despise the furniture--to value the casket, and to throw
+away the jewel!</p>
+
+<p>The situation of Adam in the garden of Eden, shows that his Creator had
+adopted every proper expedient to promote his felicity. The place selected
+for his residence was in the highest degree rich and fertile, furnished
+with every suitable accommodation, and "well watered" by a large river
+which ran through it, and afterward divided itself into four considerable
+branches. In being directed to "dress" and to "keep" the garden, the
+goodness of God appears in providing him with an employment adapted to a
+state of primitive innocence, and calculated by a proper occupation of his
+time to promote his happiness. A slothful inactivity is not only
+incompatible with true enjoyment in our fallen state, but would have been
+inconsistent with the bliss of original paradise; and even when our nature
+shall have attained its greatest perfection in a future world, an
+incessant exertion of our intellectual powers and moral capacities, is
+represent as essential to the joy of heaven. There "his servants shall
+<i>serve</i> him."</p>
+
+<p>"When we think of Paradise," observes bishop Horne, "we think of it as the
+seat of delight. The name EDEN authorizes us so to do. It signifies
+PLEASURE, and the idea of pleasure is inseparable from that of a garden,
+where man still seeks after lost happiness, and where, perhaps, a good man
+finds the nearest resemblance of it which this world affords." "What is
+requisite," exclaims a great and original genius, "to make a wise and a
+happy man, but reflection and peace? And both are the natural growth of a
+garden. A garden to the virtuous is a paradise still extant, a paradise
+unlost." [<a href="#foot2">2</a>] The culture of a garden, as it was the first employment of
+man, so it is that to which the most eminent persons in different ages
+have retired, from the camp and the cabinet, to pass the interval between
+a life of action and a removal hence. When old Dioclesian was invited from
+his retreat, to resume the purple which he had laid down some years
+before, "Ah," said he, "could you but see those fruits and herbs of mine
+own raising at Salona, you would never talk to me of empire!" An
+accomplished statesman of our own country, who spent the latter part of
+his life in this manner, has so well described the advantages of it, that
+it would be injustice to communicate his ideas in any words but his own.
+"No other sort of abode," says he, "seems to contribute so much both to
+tranquillity of mind and indolence of body. The sweetness of the air, the
+pleasantness of the smell, the verdure of plants, the clearness and
+lightness of food, the exercise of working or walking; but above all, the
+exemption from care and solicitude, seem equally to favour and improve
+both contemplation and health, the enjoyment of sense and imagination, and
+thereby the quiet and ease both of body and mind. A garden has been the
+inclination of kings, and the choice of philosophers; the common favourite
+of public and private men; the pleasure of the greatest, and the care of
+the meanest; an employment and a possession for which no man is too high
+nor too low. If we believe the Scriptures, we must allow that God Almighty
+esteemed the life of man in a garden the happiest he could give him, or
+else he would not have placed Adam in that of Eden." [<a href="#foot3">3</a>] Traditions of
+this state of primeval felicity are current among all nations; they are
+discoverable in the Roman and Grecian fables of the gardens of Flora, of
+Alcinous, and of the Hesperides; and in the pleasing fictions of the poets
+respecting the golden age.</p>
+
+<p>Thus the Lord God formed the nature of man pure, placed him in a garden of
+delights, and poured around him rivers of joy. The heavens and the earth,
+the visible and invisible worlds, animate and inanimate, material and
+spiritual beings, conspired to replenish his cup of bliss; and, as the
+perfection of his felicity, God himself condescended to visit
+his creature.</p>
+
+<p>Human transgression has disturbed the peace of human life; but man, in his
+primeval state, was exposed to no changes; his cup had no bitterness, his
+day no cloud, his path no thorn; the <i>past</i> had no regrets, the <i>present</i>
+no guilt, the <i>future</i>, no terror; the stream of mercy flowed into
+Paradise with uninterrupted course, and the beam of prosperity shone with
+unfading brightness and unsetting splendour.</p>
+
+<p>In this exalted condition there was neither corporeal nor mental debility;
+and the body and soul were not more closely connected in the constitution
+of their being, than in the harmony of their friendship. There was no
+opposition between the flesh and the spirit, no internal warfare, no
+unhappy disagreement; the dictates of a pure mind were unreluctantly
+obeyed by the faculties of an uncorrupted body; for it appears to have
+been the established order of Infinite Wisdom in the constitution of the
+universe, that matter should be in subjection to spirit, body to soul,
+animals to rational creatures, and man to God; his understanding was
+clear, his judgment correct, his affections holy, his will free, his
+reason upright; he desired only what was desirable, he loved only what was
+lovely; the whole moral machinery was in the most complete order, the
+fine-toned instrument constructed by omniscient skill, was in
+perfect tune!</p>
+
+<p>But notwithstanding the diversified means of enjoyment with which Adam was
+furnished, his paradise was still incomplete; one ingredient was wanting
+to his cup of joy. Although the place of his residence was, us the
+greatest of poets describes it,</p>
+
+<p>  "A happy rural seat of various view,--"</p>
+
+<p>although diversified with "groves," and "lawns," and "level downs," and
+"flocks," and "irriguous valleys," and "umbrageous grots and caves of cool
+recess," and "murmuring waters," and "airs, vernal airs--"</p>
+
+<blockquote>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"while universal Pan,<br />
+Knit with the Graces and the Hours in dance,<br />
+Led on th' eternal spring--"</blockquote>
+
+<p>the favoured lord of this unrivalled dominion was ALONE. The inanimate
+creation spread before his view its unparalleled beauties, and nature
+furnished a table to supply all his wants; the animal world acknowledged
+his superiority, and went to him to receive their names: his Maker
+condescended to hold communion with this excellent and intellectual
+creature, admitting him to that sacred intercourse, and imparting some of
+that divine knowledge which will no doubt constitute the future felicity
+of emparadised believers: still he had no COMPANION, no one to share his
+pleasures, no one upon equal terms to whom he could communicate his
+sentiments. Endowed with a social nature, he had at present no social
+means; he seemed as if placed in that solitary point, that fair, but
+desolate region, where he saw thousands of creatures below him and above
+him, but none upon that pleasing <i>level</i> which conduces to a delightful
+and profitable familiarity.</p>
+
+<p>This defect, however, scarcely existed before the goodness of his Maker
+supplied it. "And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be
+alone; I will make him a help meet for him." The process by which this
+merciful intention was accomplished appears truly wonderful: Adam was put
+into a profound sleep, and the Lord God took out one of his ribs, from
+which he made a woman, and closed up the flesh. What must have been the
+emotions of our great progenitor, when, upon awaking from his supernatural
+slumber, this help meet was presented to him! He had, it seems, an
+intuitive perception of the kind purpose for which this female companion
+of his future days was made; or some immediate revelation disclosing both
+the manner of her formation, and the reason of his being presented with
+this invaluable gift. In the first transports of gratitude he exclaimed,
+"This is now bone of my bone, and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called
+woman (or <i>Ishah</i>,) because she was taken out of man." This name was
+afterwards changed by him to <i>Havah,</i> or EVE; assigning, as a reason, that
+"she was the mother of all living." This name we have placed at the head
+of the list of female characters in the present work; and while her brief
+history is replete with instruction, it possesses an additional interest,
+from the consideration of her being the <i>first</i> woman. We are conducted
+back to the infancy of time, to the origin of human being, to the cause of
+the present degradation of our race, to an impressive exhibition of the
+evil of sin, and to the dawn of redeeming mercy upon this world of
+transgressors. In this history we shall perceive reasons both for
+humiliation and triumph; we shall see human nature in ruins, and provision
+made for its reparation; we shall witness the effects of infernal agency,
+the loss of primeval glory, the power of female influence; and, above all,
+the INFINITE GOODNESS of our Creator.</p>
+
+<p>It very much enhances the dignity of the female character to reflect, that
+of all created things the woman was selected as the only suitable
+companion of the first and fairest of men; she was made expressly to
+contribute to his mental and social pleasures, and not to be the slave of
+his will; if the <i>mother</i>, she was intended also as the <i>instructor</i> of
+his children; his assistant, at least, in the "delightful task" of
+"rearing the tender thought," and "teaching the young idea how to shoot:"
+she was qualified to counsel and co-operate with him in his daily
+occupations, to aid in the investigation of those laws which regulated the
+new-made world, to unite with him in acts of worship, and to enliven, as
+well as to participate, his devotional hours.</p>
+
+<p>Revelation is the only system that assigns to woman her natural and proper
+elevation in the scale of being, and inspires a consciousness of her real
+dignity. The moment that an intelligent being is by any injurious
+treatment, or by any prevailing error, induced to form a degrading
+estimate of itself, that moment it begins to approximate a state of
+meanness which was hitherto only imaginary. Let such an one be conscious
+of being held in no esteem, or prized solely as the tool of servitude or
+the food of appetite, and all majesty of character is lost; all aim or
+wish to rise above the brute, to aspire after a station or character, to
+the occupation of which a tyrannic impiety has opposed an insurmountable
+barrier, is gone; and those great principles which confer a superiority
+upon the human kind, and point to a noble pre-eminence, cease to operate,
+and expire for want of action. This state of things is unnatural, contrary
+to the original purpose of creation, and in fact, more dishonorable to the
+usurper than to the degraded sufferer. In Mahometan and Pagan countries
+the rights of women have been sacrificed to the caprices of men; and,
+having plucked this fair flower of creation from its original and highly
+elevated situation, its beauty has faded, its glory been lost in the
+sacrilegious hands of its barbarian possessor. Abject slavery or base
+flattery have existed where woman has been displaced from her proper and
+original character, and the most mischievous consequences have ensued.
+[<a href="#foot4">4</a>]</p>
+
+<p>The first woman is said to have been formed <i>out of man</i>; hence, as a
+<i>part of himself</i>, it seems the law of creation, that man should cherish
+the most affectionate sentiments for the woman:--"Therefore," says the
+inspired history, "shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall
+cleave unto his wife; and they shall be one flesh."</p>
+
+<p>It is observable, that the woman was neither taken out of the <i>head</i>, nor
+from the <i>feet</i>, but from the <i>side</i>, and near the <i>heart</i>! If, therefore,
+on the one hand, she ought not to assume pre-eminence, on the other she is
+not to be trampled on and despised, but received as an equal and a friend.</p>
+
+<p>As the original arrangements of Infinite Wisdom were the most perfect in
+their respective kinds, the appropriation of <i>one</i> woman only, as the
+companion and <i>wife</i> of the first created man, indicates both the will of
+the Creator respecting marriage, and the circumstances in which it is most
+likely to produce the greatest sum of domestic felicity. Man is neither to
+live <i>alone</i>, nor to indulge that depravity of taste, which, by seeking
+enjoyment in diversity, not only ensures disappointment, but
+generates discord.</p>
+
+<p>The advocates for celibacy and for plurality, equally betray an ignorance
+of Scripture and of human nature, and can find few supporters, except
+amongst the infidel or the barbarian classes of mankind. "They that will
+not connect their interests, lest they should be unhappy by their
+partner's fault, dream away their time without friendship, without
+fondness, and are driven to rid themselves of the day, for which they have
+no use, by childish amusement or vicious delights. They act as beings
+under the constant sense of some known inferiority, that fills their minds
+with rancor and their tongues with censure; they are peevish at home, and
+malevolent abroad; and, as the outlaws of human nature, make it their
+business and their pleasure to disturb that society which debars them from
+its privileges. To live without feeling or exciting sympathy, to be
+fortunate without adding to the felicity of others, or afflicted without
+tasting the balm of pity, is a state more gloomy than solitude: it is not
+retreat, but exclusion from mankind. Marriage has many pains, but celibacy
+has no pleasures." [<a href="#foot5">5</a>]</p>
+
+<p>The original law is enforced in the New Testament by an infallible
+commentator: "Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning
+made them male and female, and said, For this cause shall a man leave
+father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be
+one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What,
+therefore, God hath joined together, let no man put asunder." Thus Jesus
+Christ sanctions marriage by his authority, virtually interdicts polygamy,
+and absolutely prohibits divorce.</p>
+
+<p>As the bestowal of one woman upon one man, at the creation of the human
+species, was sufficiently indicative of the divine will, so the near
+equality of the two sexes is a strong presumptive argument in favour of
+this division of society: if a different proportion were better calculated
+to replenish the world with population, the circumstances of Adam seemed
+particularly to require such an arrangement; or if it were calculated to
+promote human happiness, the Divine Being, who created Eve for the very
+purpose of enhancing the bliss of our first parent, would have superadded
+this to his paradisaical possessions. The reverse, however, was obviously
+the case. Polygamy violates the constitution of nature, and produces
+contests, jealousies, distracted affections, a voluptuousness which
+dissolves the vigour of the intellectual and corporeal faculties, neglect
+of children, with other lamentable evils, for which it furnishes no
+compensation. "Whether," says Dr. Paley, "simultaneous polygamy was
+permitted by the law of Moses, seems doubtful; but whether permitted or
+not, it was certainly practised by the Jewish patriarchs, both before that
+law and under it. The permission, if there were any, might be like that of
+divorce, 'for the hardness of their heart,' in condescension to their
+established indulgencies, rather than from the general rectitude or
+propriety of the thing itself. The state of manners in Judea had probably
+undergone a reformation in this respect before the time of Christ, for in
+the New Testament we meet with no trace or mention of any such practice
+being tolerated." [<a href="#foot6">6</a>]</p>
+
+<p>Though man was created in the state we have been representing, encircled
+with the divine favour, rich in all the requisites of happiness, and the
+tenant of a glorious palace, a melancholy alteration soon occurred.
+Seduced by infernal temptation, he forsook his God and forfeited his
+paradise; and from the narrative of his fall in the book of Genesis, which
+immediately succeeds the account of his felicity, we learn that the WOMAN
+was the first transgressor. Assuming the form of a serpent, Satan
+presented himself to Eve, and entered into familiar conversation with her.
+To his artful inquiry respecting the divine interdiction of one of the
+trees of the garden, she at first gave a very proper answer. Satan
+insinuated that the terms which God had prescribed, were severe, if not
+capricious: but she replied in a manner indicative of her perfect
+acquiescence in the commandment, her untainted purity of mind, and such a
+sense of the beneficence of God, as prevented even a momentary doubt of
+his wisdom or goodness, in the denial of "one tree in the midst of
+the garden."</p>
+
+<p>The tempter, in making a second attack, became more positive. In
+contradiction to the divine assurance, he affirmed, with unhesitating
+effrontery, that they should <i>not</i> die, even though they tasted the fruit
+of the interdicted tree; but on the contrary, that they should be "as
+gods, knowing good and evil." By the very same representations do the
+ministers of satanic malice in every age seduce mankind, suggesting that
+the commands of Heaven are extremely rigid, and flattering them that sin
+may be committed with impunity.</p>
+
+<p>The fatal moment was come--she <i>looked</i> at <i>the tree!</i>--Ah! thou mother of
+all living! hadst thou looked at the <i>command</i>, and turned away from the
+attractive plant and the beguiling serpent, all would have been
+well--thine innocence had been uncorrupted, thy posterity uncondemned! But
+unhallowed curiosity prompted the fatal experiment--she wished to
+be wise--</p>
+
+<blockquote>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Her rash hand in evil hour,<br />
+Forth reaching to the fruit, she plucked, she ate.<br />
+Earth felt the wound; and Nature from her seat,<br />
+Sighing through all her works, gave signs of wo,<br />
+That all was lost!"</blockquote>
+
+<p>It does not appear that any ill consequences resulted <i>immediately</i> from
+the criminal rashness of this sinner, so that she was encouraged to go to
+her husband, who, seduced by a fairer tempter, and one endeared to him by
+the tenderest ties, complied with her request to share the violated tree.
+Motives of curiosity and pride excited <i>her</i> to sin, and so far as appears
+from the history, blind affection influenced <i>him</i>. Alas! she who was
+given him as a "<i>help meet</i>," is changed into his <i>seducer</i>, and from his
+<i>comfort</i> is become his <i>snare</i>! That influence which she naturally
+possessed over her husband, ought to have been exerted to <i>prevent</i> his
+compliance with any sinful intimation, in case of an unexpected
+solicitation, instead of which it was used to <i>induce</i> him to plunge into
+guilt and ruin. "We have a right to presume," observes Saurin, "that as no
+crime was ever connected with more melancholy results, so none was ever
+more atrocious than hers. The more we examine its nature, the more base it
+appears, and the more easy is it to exculpate religion from those
+reproaches which this statement has so often occasioned. Whatever tends to
+extenuate the guilt of other sins, is an aggravation of this.</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes a confusion <i>of the passions</i> obscures all the powers of the
+soul; a man who sins in this manner, is frequently less deserving of
+abhorrence than of pity; he acts from a sort of compulsion, and protests
+against the crime, even at the moment he is committing it. Eve possessed a
+dominion over those passions to which we are become enslaved; she could
+easily calm their turbulence, and they had no other influence over her,
+than what was on her own part voluntary.</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes <i>necessity</i> inspires the design of acquiring by unlawful
+methods, a supply which nature has rendered requisite, and which cannot be
+legitimately obtained. But, what could be wanting to satisfy the
+insatiable cravings of this woman? What could she need as an addition to
+her happiness? She might be said to be 'crowned with glory and honour;'
+she had dominion over the works of the Creator; all things were put under
+her feet; all sheep and oxen; yea, and the beasts of the field, the fowl
+of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the
+paths of the seas. Even her love of variety could not yet be satiated, and
+this garden offered a thousand exquisite fruits which she had
+never tasted.</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes <i>doubt</i> blends itself with disobedience. There are but few sins
+totally unaccompanied with unbelief; some clouds always obscure our faith;
+some veils of concealment overspread the existence of the Creator. Among
+the previous pangs which sin occasions, when we deliberate respecting the
+commission of it, there always exist certain vague ideas in the mind, such
+as these--perhaps no superior being concerns himself about it; or, perhaps
+no one has forbidden it;--but Eve could not possibly doubt of the
+existence or the will of the Creator. She had herself heard this language
+from his mouth, 'In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shall
+surely die.'</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes our abuse of a favour proceeds from <i>false ideas of its
+origin</i>. Though every sinner be ungrateful, yet every sinner is not a
+monster of ingratitude. The first cause of our felicity is sometimes
+mingled with the second, which is serviceable in procuring it. Our
+industry frequently seems to share with Providence the glory of our
+condition, and the nature of a blessing sometimes leads us to forget the
+acknowledgments due to our benefactor; but Eve enjoyed no good which did
+not in some respect proceed <i>immediately</i> from the bounty of God, and
+which ought not to have induced her to glorify him.</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes a <i>pure motive</i> produces an <i>impure action</i>, and the love of
+virtue itself sometimes occasions our removal from it; but in the present
+case the action is aggravated by the motive. Pride, vain-glory, perhaps
+the desire of robbing God of his pre-eminence, his omniscience, or his
+jurisdiction over the creature, his most sacred and incommunicable
+distinctions, were the dispositions that actuated this woman.</p>
+
+<p>"Can any imaginable pretext serve to palliate so atrocious a crime, or
+excuse the woman who first committed it, and the man who joined in the
+rebellion? Would they indeed have been less criminal, if a seraph of glory
+had proposed to them the impious deed? Was not the faculty of <i>reason</i>
+which they had received from God, sufficient to make them understand what
+revelation has taught us, that if an angel from heaven were to proclaim
+any thing contrary to what God has commanded, it ought to inspire us with
+no other sentiments than those of <i>anathema</i> and execration?"
+[<a href="#foot7">7</a>]</p>
+
+<p>The general consequences of human transgression were:</p>
+
+<p>1. <i>The loss of Eden</i>, and the subjection of our first parents to a mode
+of life both humiliating and painful. Ease was exchanged for toil, honour
+for degradation, peace for distraction and wo.</p>
+
+<p>It is always painful to quit a favourite spot. The heart lingers long
+behind, and employs the pencil of memory to paint the absent scene. Adam
+and Eve must have experienced inexpressible emotions when driven from
+their primeval residence, where all the elements, all the seasons, and all
+beings had contributed to their enjoyment. Never, never, could they forget
+those landscapes on which the eye paused with rapture; never, never, could
+they cease to remember its rich productions, its often-frequented vales,
+and hills, and rivers, and woods; never, never, could they obliterate from
+their memory the bright sunshine of heavenly love that beamed upon them
+there--for by transgression they suffered.</p>
+
+<p>2. <i>The loss of their God</i>. The divine favour can alone constitute the
+real felicity of a creature; this, in its full manifestation, is
+<i>heaven</i>--in its total absence, is <i>hell</i>. No place, however loaded with
+blessings, can constitute a desirable abode, unless God be there. The
+fairest Eden without this manifestation must be a melancholy dungeon to an
+intelligent and immortal being. It is this which was forfeited by original
+sin, and which occasioned "a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep
+the way of the tree of life."</p>
+
+<p>It would be inconsistent with the nature of God not to manifest
+displeasure against iniquity, however high and dignified the being who
+commits it. An angel must lose his crown, if he dare to disobey that Being
+who is "glorious in holiness."</p>
+
+<p>3. Mankind incurred by sin <i>the loss of life</i>.--"And the Lord God
+commanded the man, saying, Of every tree in the garden thou mayest freely
+eat, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil thou shall not eat
+of it, for in the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die."
+This denunciation included an exposure not only to temporal, but to
+eternal death, as might be shown from the nature and demerit of sin, the
+means which were afterwards employed to destroy its effects in the work of
+Christ, the repeated declarations of Scripture, and the peculiar energy
+of the original expression; it is literally, "Dying, thou shalt die." The
+weight of the condemnation rested on the sinner's head, and in order to
+maintain the glory of his character, "the blessed God" rendered his
+punishment as extraordinary as his former mercies, and proportionate to
+his enormous guilt.--"Thou wilt by no means clear the guilty."--"These
+shall go away into <i>everlasting</i> punishment."</p>
+
+<p>4. The sin of Adam and Eve involved the <i>ruin of their posterity</i>. As the
+first man and woman, they stood in a peculiar relation to all who should
+hereafter be born, the representatives of unnumbered millions, whose
+future condition essentially depended on their character and
+circumstances. Had they continued innocent, it cannot be doubted their
+children would have been placed in a far happier condition. They would
+have inherited purity and a blessing for the Father's sake, instead of
+being "shapen in iniquity." As the streams become polluted when the
+fountain is poisoned, or as the branches die when the root is destroyed,
+so the race of men are become degraded, accursed, and condemned by their
+parent's sin. They inherit a nature depraved by original transgression,
+and disposed to every wicked indulgence. Instead of becoming more
+assimilated to God, as man had flattered himself he should be by partaking
+of the forbidden fruit, he became from that moment assimilated to the
+devil. Every dishonorable and hurtful passion took immediate possession of
+the breast, and to this hour reigns in the carnal man with unrivalled
+influence. Whatever misery results from the gratification of these
+passions, is solely attributable to the principle; for man, who is
+criminal by nature, is still more so by inclination and practice. The
+world is thrown into a state of anarchy. The unbridled dominion of the
+passions disturbs the peace of the individual and the harmony of society.
+Sin makes a man at variance with himself, with his neighbour, and with the
+whole constitution of things. He is restless as the ocean, impelled by
+every contrary wind, and tossed about by every sportive billow. The desire
+of happiness exists; but he is ignorant of the true means of it, and is
+perpetually pursuing it by a method which only plunges him into greater
+misery. To this cause must be attributed all the mental distresses and all
+the bodily afflictions of the individual--all the disturbances which
+prevent domestic enjoyment, the bickerings and jealousies of families with
+their various alliances--all the animosities which agitate social
+life--all the intestine broils, ambitious emulations, endless contentions,
+and opposing interests that distract a state--all the melancholy wars that
+convulse nations and desolate empires, the record of which has stained the
+page of history in all ages--with every particular, form, and mode of
+evil, discoverable in the world.</p>
+
+<p>But sin extends its ravages beyond the present state. It has not only
+strewed the whole path of life with tormenting thorns, but enkindled
+"everlasting burnings." It has not only introduced disorder into the
+world, disease into the body, and distress into the condition of men, but
+exposed them to the agonies of death and of hell. It is sin which banishes
+every hope and excludes every ray of comfort from the realms of infernal
+despair. Justly, then, is it characterized by the apostle, as
+"<i>exceeding sinful</i>."</p>
+
+<p>There were two respects in which the woman became more deeply affected by
+the curse than the man; she not only participated, as a fallen creature,
+in the diversified calamities which, from the moment of transgression,
+were entailed upon humanity, but suffered as a <i>female</i> in the <i>conjugal</i>
+and <i>maternal</i> relationships which she was destined hereafter to sustain.
+Her husband was to "rule over her," and in sorrow "she was to bring forth
+children." The yoke of subjection, indeed, in the one case, and the pangs
+of childbirth in the other, are alleviated by the benign influences of
+Christianity, whose supplies are intended to heal the wounds inflicted by
+the poisonous serpent; but they nevertheless attach, in greater or less
+degrees, to the human constitution.</p>
+
+<p>The reason of this marked difference in the dispensation of an avenging
+Providence to the two principal parties concerned, was obviously this; the
+woman was <i>first</i> in the transgression, and after listening to the
+deceptive counsel of her adversary, tempted when she ought to have warned
+her husband. It appears consonant to every principle of equity, that the
+atrociousness of her guilt should be characterized by appropriate
+expressions of displeasure; and that, in the future condition of mankind,
+all beings should recognize, not only the general purity of the divine
+administration, but its reference to the peculiarities of individual
+delinquency. Whatever mystery may at present involve the proceedings of
+Infinite Wisdom, and however incapacitated we may be to discover in every
+given case, or even in the majority of instances, the distinct traces of a
+justice that holds the even balance, and adjusts with nicety the
+proportions of sin and punishment, of this we may feel perfectly assured,
+that "every one" will eventually "receive the things done in his body,
+<i>according to that he hath done</i>, whether it be good or bad."</p>
+
+<p>It should be a matter of serious consideration to women to employ the
+influence which they possess, as the gift of nature, to wise, holy, and
+useful purposes. Let the young female especially see to it, that her
+attractions are not dedicated to the service of sin, but to that of virtue
+and of Christ. Let her neither be tempted, nor tempt others, but close her
+ear against the voice of enticement, and make a covenant with her tongue,
+that it neither utter folly, nor propagate slander. Let the daughters of
+Eve imitate their mother in her state of unfallen rectitude, when she
+shone in all the purity of innocence, and in all the summer of her charms;
+but let them avoid that course which tarnished her glory, debased her
+nature, and withered her paradise. It is indisputable that society is
+materially affected by the character of women; and in very important
+respects the moral state, as well as the social comfort of the world, is
+at their disposal. Let them beware of the delusions to which they are
+exposed, and make virtuous use of the influence which is undoubtedly given
+them. Let them aim to be guides to piety, not seducers to sin; and,
+instead of presenting to others the forbidden fruit, refuse to taste, or
+even to <i>look</i> at it: so shall they regain the dignity they have lost, be
+admitted to partake of the untainted spring of happiness, and enjoy at
+once a peaceful conscience and an approving God.</p>
+
+<p>The narrative which has here been briefly introduced, stands in immediate
+connection with a subject which abounds in considerable difficulties, and
+has produced, unhappily, many acrimonious controversies. These it would be
+improper to detail; but as our design is chiefly practical, if some of
+those objections which occur to almost every mind, can, by a few words, be
+in any degree obviated, it will be worthy at least of a short digression.</p>
+
+<p>1. It has been alleged that the first man might have been created
+immutable by a necessity of nature, the consequence of which would have
+been his own perfect and unchanging happiness, and that of all mankind.
+The imagination seizes the transporting thought, and in a moment converts
+every spot of this barren wilderness into "the garden of Eden." Does it,
+however, become us to prescribe rules to Omniscience? Was the Deity
+obliged to impose a miraculous constraint upon the human will, and compel
+his creature to choose whatever is best with invariable determination and
+promptitude? If a parent were to caution his child against a danger, into
+which he afterward plunged himself by his inadvertence or perverseness,
+would the child be justified in censuring the parent, because, in addition
+to advice, he did not employ bonds and cords? Adam might have been created
+immutable by a necessity of nature. True--but Adam would then have been
+another being, and not a man. It might with similar propriety be asked,
+why men were not created equal to angels, or beasts to men? This sentiment
+implies, that it was not proper to create such a being as <i>man</i> at all, an
+intimation sufficiently presumptuous. Adam possessed all the perfections
+essential to his nature, and conducive to his felicity, and all the
+motives to obedience, which a reasonable creature could demand. If he
+fell, it was <i>violating</i> and not <i>concurring</i> with the principles of his
+nature. And who was culpable for this violation? It is true he was
+<i>tempted</i>,--but then he was <i>forewarned</i>. He was <i>tempted</i>--so was the
+<i>second Adam</i>, the Lord from heaven, who effectually <i>resisted</i> the
+temptation.</p>
+
+<p>2. Some have supposed that the punishment was disproportioned to the
+offence. A more attentive consideration of the subject, however, will
+demonstrate the contrary. The compliance with the seductions of the
+tempter, of which our first parents were guilty, betrayed many lamentable
+symptoms of degeneracy. Pride, ambition, discontent, unbelief,
+presumption, ingratitude, and an undervaluation of the divine favour, are
+all plainly discernible through the thin veil of an extenuating apology,
+with which they vainly attempted to conceal their baseness.--"The woman,
+whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat."
+And the woman said, "The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat." Endowed as
+they were with knowledge, it was a sin against the greatest <i>light</i>;
+surrounded as they were with motives, it was a sin against the greatest
+<i>means</i>; warned as they were of danger and promised eternal blessedness,
+it was a sin against the greatest <i>reason</i>; and placed as they were at the
+head of a numerous posterity, and in a sense the depositories and trustees
+of their happiness, it was a sin against the greatest <i>public good</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Besides, it was the <i>first sin</i>, and consequently justice demanded such an
+expression of the divine displeasure as would tend to deter future
+transgressors, and evince the purity of God to all holy intelligences.
+When justice seized upon the delinquents, and brought them to the
+equitable tribunal of Heaven, the whole intelligent universe may be
+considered as attentive spectators of the scene. Every eye was
+fixed--every ear open--every tongue silent--every harp suspended. The
+great Judge with whom "a thousand years are as one day, and one day as a
+thousand years," saw, as it were, the unborn generations of men all
+present, and tremblingly awaiting the verdict. This was the solemn hour
+when the perfections of Deity were to be most sublimely illustrated, and
+ten thousand worlds were to learn in one eventful moment the character of
+their Creator, "Therefore the Lord God sent him from the garden of Eden."</p>
+
+<p>The nature of sin in itself should also be considered. It is no trifling
+affair. From the habit of observing only its outward effects, we overlook
+its rancorous principle. The propensity to extenuate sin arises from
+ignorance of its vileness. We judge of every thing by comparison, and
+self-flattery always renders the comparison favorable to ourselves. But
+<i>small</i> and <i>large</i> are terms which, though we have chosen to adopt them,
+do not properly belong to the subject. The divine mind contemplates sin in
+its principle; and the <i>least</i> transgression, being a resistance of his
+command, an insult to his authority, an opposition to his truth, a
+violation, of general order, a perversion and misuse of the noblest
+faculties, whatever may be the force of the attack or the nature of the
+temptation, is infinitely offensive to the blessed God. It is an admission
+of that principle which, could it possibly prevail, would produce eternal
+discord, universal rebellion, and boundless misery.</p>
+
+<p>3. If, however, we be accounted sinners in Adam, may it not be inferred
+that our guilt is incalculably <i>inferior</i> to his, and that in all our
+actions resulting from this inherent depravity, we are more <i>pitiable</i>
+than <i>culpable</i>? By no means.--It is sufficient to remark, that though our
+original guilt be less than his, not having been personally the
+perpetrators of the first crime, our <i>actual</i> guilt is equal, if not
+greater. For it is obvious we sin with all the experience of the past to
+forewarn us; we sin, though we witness the deplorable effects of his fall,
+and hear the denunciations of vengeance in the Scriptures.</p>
+
+<p>Though it be true that sin originates in a depravity of heart, which is
+the fatal inheritance of the whole human race, will any one pretend that
+such a sentiment justifies its excesses? The perpetration of iniquity in
+the course of our daily practice, must not be confounded with the original
+tendency. These excesses are in no sense chargeable upon the principle as
+its necessary and unavoidable result, because thousands escape "the
+pollutions that are in the world." Nor are we less obliged to love God in
+consequence of the fall, though unhappily we are become more incapable and
+indisposed to it. You ask, why passions were implanted in human nature?
+The reply is, to extend the means of our happiness, by rendering us more
+capable of glorifying and enjoying God. If they have acquired a sinful
+bias, the obligation to devote them to their original purpose is by no
+means diminished: But their great Author, to whom we are responsible for
+every faculty, requires that we should oppose their perverse propensities,
+earnestly repent of the irregularities produced by their seducing
+influence, and solicit the aid of his grace to conquer them.</p>
+
+<p>When the apostle of the Gentiles was reasoning before an unjust judge of
+"righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come," it is said, "Felix
+trembled, and answered. Go thy way for this time, when I have a convenient
+season I will call for thee." Unhappy man! Hadst thou but obeyed Paul
+instead of dismissing him, hadst thou but yielded to thy kindling
+convictions, confessed thy sins, and sought salvation through the blood of
+that Jesus whom Paul preached, the church of Christ would have hailed thee
+as "a brand plucked out of the burning."</p>
+
+<p>Every one is conscious that, however corrupt his nature, he is under no
+irresistible impulse, no constraining necessity. If he commit sin it is
+voluntarily. Sin is his choice and his pleasure. He does not sin because
+he is <i>necessitated</i> to do it, but because he <i>loves</i> it: and however
+willing the carnal mind may be to avail itself of sophistical reasonings
+to quiet conscience, every one must, in the hour of dispassionate
+reflection, feel himself implicated in the charge, "all have sinned."</p>
+
+<p>Listen to the case of a wretched prodigal.--Crime had reduced him to rags.
+He had a <i>home</i>--but through perverseness he banished himself from all its
+comforts. He had a <i>father</i>--but he undervalued his affection, in a moment
+of folly demanded his patrimony, and adventured abroad friendless and
+alone. A few years brought him to the very gates of death. O thoughtless
+sinner, "<i>Thou</i> art the man!" <i>Thou</i> hast forsaken God, the Father of
+mercies! <i>Thou</i> art "perishing in ignorance and unbelief!" But this moral
+lunatic came to himself, and resolved to return to his father; "I will
+arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned
+against heaven and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy
+son; make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose and came to his
+father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had
+compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him." What a son!
+what a father! what a meeting! what sighs of penitence! what tears of
+fondness! what looks of tenderness! what words of peace! How were
+resentment and grief drowned in a sea of love!</p>
+
+<p>God of all comfort, who art thyself this kind, forgiving, bountiful
+Father, grant of thine infinite mercy that every reader may prove himself
+this humble, sincere, and grateful penitent!</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="02"></a>Sarah</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter II.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  Abraham's Departure from Chaldea--His Faith--Its Failure--Sarah and
+  Abraham agree to prevaricate--The Admiration which Sarah
+  attracted--Abraham's Dismissal from the country of Egypt--Beauty and
+  Dress--Importance of a proper Education--Parental Vanity--Source of real
+  Attraction--Sarah proposes to Abraham to take Hagar--Unhappy
+  Consequences--Hagar's Flight and Return--Visit of three Angels--Sarah's
+  laughter at the subject of their commission--Her subsequent
+  Character--General Remarks--Birth of Isaac--Ishmael's Conduct and its
+  Consequences--Sarah's Death.<br /></blockquote>
+
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 1920-1921.]</p>
+
+<p>At a very advanced period of life, and in obedience to a divine
+injunction, Abraham went out from his country and his father's house, "not
+knowing whither he went." By this cheerful, prompt, and pious submission
+to the mysterious will of Heaven, he has acquired a high distinction in
+the sacred records, and presents a noble example for the imitation of all
+future ages. Here was no debate between a sense of duty and an inclination
+to sin--no disposition to question the wisdom or the goodness of the
+command--no effort to devise expedients for the purpose of procuring
+delay--and no unholy apprehensions respecting the possible or probable
+consequences of such a proceeding.</p>
+
+<p>In this removal from Chaldea, the illustrious exile took with him his
+wife, his nephew, "and all their substance that they had gathered, and the
+souls that they had gotten in Haran." Upon their arrival in Canaan, the
+divine declaration respecting his future possession of the country was
+renewed, and he erected an altar to the Lord in the plain of Moreh. The
+same act of devotion was performed at the next stage of his journey, on a
+mountain to the east of Bethel; for no change of place could obliterate
+his sense of religious obligation.</p>
+
+<p>This land of promise was soon afflicted with a grievous famine, in
+consequence of which, he was necessitated to provide for the subsistence
+of his family by removing into Egypt. This was a new trial to his faith;
+for by what possible means could a land at present so impoverished, become
+a place of plentiful subsistence to his posterity, when multiplied as the
+sands upon the sea-shore? Driven even from this promised inheritance, he
+did not, however, manifest a spirit of discontent or unbelief, but
+hastened to seek a temporary asylum, convinced that he to whose guidance
+he had committed himself and his beloved family, could, by the
+outstretched arm of his power, not only overcome every obstacle which to
+human ignorance might seem insurmountable; but by his concurrent wisdom
+render difficulties themselves subservient to the accomplishment of
+his purposes.</p>
+
+<p>Alas! on his entering Egypt he is seized with apprehension. The faith
+which had hitherto been so conspicuous is mingled with distrust, and he
+engages his beloved SARAH, who is now introduced to our notice, in an act
+of most unwarrantable duplicity. The whole of this transaction is detailed
+with that perfect impartiality which characterizes the histories of the
+Scriptures, and which furnishes one very decisive evidence of their
+inspiration.</p>
+
+<p>Sarah is represented as very beautiful. Her husband was aware that this
+circumstance would attract the notice of the Egyptians, not only because
+of the contrast her person would exhibit to the swarthy complexions of
+their women, but on account of their licentious character. He dreaded
+their illicit attachment, and the probable consequence that they might
+assassinate him in order to obtain his wife. This idea of Egyptian morals
+was no doubt correct, but how deplorable! They would not commit adultery;
+but for the sake of gratifying a guilty passion, were ready to perpetrate
+the abominable sin of murder! And thus, under the strange pretence of
+reverence for the matrimonial law, they would have violated at once the
+dictates of humanity, the principles of reason, and the constitutions of
+heaven. So common is it for transgressors to "strain at a knat and swallow
+a camel;" and so uniform the course of guilt, which never walks alone, but
+draws with it a train of complicated iniquities!</p>
+
+<p>The preliminaries being settled, Abraham and his family entered Egypt. She
+was to say, when any inquiries were made, that she was his <i>sister</i>,
+hoping by this artifice to escape danger. This, it must be observed, was
+not a <i>direct</i> falsehood: it was such only by <i>implication</i>. It was true
+that, according to the Jewish mode of reckoning, Sarah was the <i>sister</i> of
+Abraham; but their intention in circulating this statement was, to conceal
+the whole truth of her being his <i>wife</i>. Notwithstanding the ingenuity
+which some learned men have displayed in attempting to vindicate this
+conduct, we must without hesitation pronounce it base, mean, and
+prevaricating. The purpose was to deceive, and it was the more censurable
+for being so deliberately premeditated and so perseveringly practised.
+There are cases in which persons have been overtaken in a fault, impelled
+by some momentary passion, excited by some brilliant temptation, or
+betrayed by some unexpected coincidence of circumstances, and of which
+they have deeply and almost immediately repented--a situation which
+cannot but excite our pity, as well as our disapprobation; but this was a
+transaction which it is impossible either to extenuate or justify. Let it
+be improved as a motive for self-examination, and a beacon to warn us from
+similar misconduct. "O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be
+ashamed, for I put my trust in thee. Let INTEGRITY and UPRIGHTNESS
+preserve me, for I wait on thee."</p>
+
+<p>Prevarication of every kind partakes of the very essence of lying, being
+not only subversive of social happiness, by preventing all confidential
+intercourse amongst mankind, but diametrically opposed to the commands of
+God. Every species of wilful deceit, as the use of ambiguities in language
+for the purpose of misleading; the adoption of expressions which we know
+to be understood by another in a different sense from what we really mean;
+mental reservations; a studied suppression of part of the truth, as in the
+present example, is unworthy the character of any person who professes to
+be an honest man, much more of one who sustains the dignified character of
+a Christian. "Wherefore, putting away lying, speak every man truth with
+his neighbour."</p>
+
+<p>In theory, it seems an easy thing to adhere to truth; but it is too
+frequently found difficult in practice. When motives of interest are
+balanced against motives of duty, it is well if the former do not
+sometimes preponderate. Are we always careful to state facts <i>exactly</i> as
+they exist; to avoid all false colouring; to swear even to our own hurt?
+If so, we need not fear investigation, because nothing can be detected but
+an honourable, undissembled mind.</p>
+
+<p>When Adam disobeyed the divine commandment, and in consequence forfeited
+the bliss of primeval paradise, he was seduced by his fair partner, who
+had already listened to the wily suggestions of the serpent; but Abraham,
+so far from being tempted by his wife, appears to have been the sole
+contriver of this disingenuous artifice, and employed all his influence to
+induce her to transgress. In following him from his original residence
+into Canaan, and subsequently to Egypt, she obeyed the dictates of
+affection and of religion; but when she suffered herself to be persuaded
+into a deceitful action, she sacrificed the purity of her conscience. It
+became her, however painful the conflict, to resist the temptation; and,
+when the claims of heaven were opposed to those of affection or human
+authority, to obey God rather than man. It appears that we are not only in
+danger of being misled by those who are our avowed enemies, or by the
+pernicious example of the multitude who do evil, but the nearest and
+dearest relatives may become snares to our feet; and even those, in whose
+piety and wisdom we should naturally confide, may, under the influence of
+temporary delusion, incite us to do wrong. Our affections must not be
+implicitly trusted. There is a point where submission to man becomes
+treason against heaven. It were better to incur the displeasure even of
+the dearest friend and tenderest relative, than of Him who possesses
+supreme authority over conscience.</p>
+
+<p>At the same time, let a woman, who thus ventures to disobey her husband,
+do it with that caution which results solely from a conviction of
+paramount duty, and from a well founded assurance that she is not
+mistaken. It is no trifling occasion that will justify opposition to the
+will of him whom she is commanded to obey; and if it be done in a proper
+spirit, it will be done with a degree of reluctance, and under an
+overwhelming sense of necessity. Let the spirit of meekness be prevalent.
+Nothing in the <i>manner</i>, in which unwelcome opposition is maintained, must
+indicate a proud resistance, or an air of triumph. It must not be
+litigious, petulant, unconciliating; but the importance of those
+principles which occasion the difference, must be apparent in the temper
+of mind they produce. Thus, it will be possible to maintain the rights of
+conscience, and not to violate the claims of duty: the integrity of the
+heart will be indicated, not by words only, but by actions.--It is natural
+to feel indignant against a conduct which we suspect to proceed from
+improper motives, and a hostile spirit; but we extenuate even the mistakes
+of those who differ most widely from ourselves, provided we have
+sufficient evidence that their scruples result from conscientious
+feelings. While, therefore, in our differences from others, we are careful
+not to be actuated by mere frivolous pretences, we must be equally
+solicitous not to be deterred from showing a firm consistence of conduct,
+lest we should incur the charge of an affected singularity.</p>
+
+<p>The fact was such as Abraham had anticipated. Sarah was the object of
+universal admiration. She attracted the attention even of Pharaoh's
+courtiers, who, with the view of pleasing their master, recommended her to
+the king. Supposing she had been the stranger's sister, she was taken into
+his house. Alas! what availed all this timid policy! The very means which
+had been devised for the preservation of Sarah from Egyptian
+licentiousness, nearly exposed her to all its dreaded consequences; and
+Abraham was duped by his own craftiness. His wife was endangered, his
+artifice detected, and the household of Pharaoh visited with divine
+chastisements on her account. And, in addition to the pain which both he
+and his beloved partner must have felt, from the consciousness of having
+acted wrong, they were dismissed from the country. "And Pharaoh called
+Abraham, and said, What is this that thou hast done unto me? Why didst
+thou not tell me that she was thy wife? Why saidst thou, She is my sister?
+So I might have taken her to me to wife: now, therefore, behold thy wife,
+take her and go thy way. And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him; and
+they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had."</p>
+
+<p>The <i>beauty</i> of Sarah was obviously the occasion of her committing, in
+concert with her husband, the sin of equivocation, and of the misfortunes
+which attended their Egyptian journey. If she had not been distinguished
+for a fair exterior, she would have escaped the admiration of these
+strangers, and the difficulties which she and Abraham afterwards
+encountered. Solomon pronounces beauty to be vain; and the history of the
+world will show, that, in innumerable instances, as well as that of Sarah,
+it has betrayed its fair possessor into many snares. Experience, however,
+in this respect, does not seem to teach wisdom; for the wish to acquire
+the attraction which beauty confers, seems to be no less prevalent in the
+present age, than it was at the earliest period of the world. How many
+hours of the day, and how many days of the wasted year, do some females
+devote to the improvement of their persons! Impossible as it has ever
+been, and ever will be found, to make one hair black or white, to add one
+cubit to the stature, to bend one untractable feature into the admired
+curve to which common consent attributes grace and loveliness; the
+impossible transformation is nevertheless attempted. The treasures of
+opulence are exhausted; the more valuable possession of health is often
+sacrificed at the shrine of vanity: and while the noble distinctions of
+cultivated intellect and solid piety are neglected, the ostentatious
+decoration of exterior polish is sought with useless and guilty avidity.</p>
+
+<p>The most effectual means of correcting this error, is in early life to
+commence the important business of moral discipline by a solid education.
+If a greater degree of attention be paid to showy, than to substantial
+acquirements; if young ladies be systematically prepared to shine and
+attract, instead of being assiduously formed to be useful in the stations
+to which Providence has assigned them; it may be expected that they should
+become solicitous of courting admiration, rather than of winning esteem.
+They will necessarily be unfitted for domestic management, and
+disqualified for the sober realities of life. If the matrimonial connexion
+be founded upon no better pretensions, and no superior reasons for
+attachment, it is incapable of securing solid happiness. It is, in fact,
+at the mercy of every breeze. The wind of adversity may blow upon the fair
+flower, wither its exterior charms, and leave nothing but prickles and
+thorns. A consciousness of insignificance on the one hand, and a
+perception of it on the other, will produce disappointment, and generate
+dissatisfaction; and it will be found, too late perhaps, that the <i>mind</i>,
+instead of the <i>face</i>, ought to have been principally regarded.</p>
+
+<p>There is a species of parental vanity against which we would loudly
+appeal. Some persons are extremely anxious that their daughters should
+possess all the attractions of beauty; and from their earliest infancy, a
+concern for appearances is instilled into them, as of the first
+importance. If young persons, so unhappily circumstanced, should receive a
+wrong bias, we cannot feel surprised; and it will require a long course of
+salutary discipline, combined with the inculcation of religious
+principles, effectually to teach them that to see, and to be seen, are not
+the great purposes of human existence; that they must live for nobler
+ends, and secure the approbation of the wise and good by other
+accomplishments than a taste for the arrangement of a ribbon, or the
+harmony of a tune. Unless they should be unfortunate enough to meet with
+none but flippant and vacant admirers, to whose flattering nothings they
+are induced to listen, they will find, that persons of real worth are not
+to be attracted by tinsel decorations, nor a butterfly exterior, but that</p>
+
+<blockquote>  "Man has a relish more refined;"</blockquote>
+
+<p>and will rather breathe the following sentiments, as the appropriate
+language of a noble enthusiasm, connected with rationality and religion;</p>
+
+<blockquote>"Souls are for social bliss designed--<br />
+Give me a blessing fit to match my mind;<br />
+A kindred soul to double and to share my joys."</blockquote>
+
+<p>That which constitutes the source of attraction to well regulated minds,
+does not depend upon the disposition of the features, nor the colour of
+the skin. It is possible to every kind of exterior form. "This beauty," it
+has been well observed, "does not always consist in smiles, but varies as
+expressions of meekness and kindness vary with their objects: it is
+extremely forcible in the silent complaint of patient sufferance, the
+tender solicitude of friendship, and the glow of filial obedience; and in
+tears, whether of joy, of pity, or of grief, it is almost irresistible.</p>
+
+<p>"This is the charm which captivates without the aid of nature, and without
+which her utmost bounty is ineffectual. But it cannot be assumed as a mask
+to conceal insensibility or malevolence: it must be the effect of
+corresponding sentiments, or it will impress upon the countenance a new
+and more disgusting deformity--AFFECTATION. Looks, which do not correspond
+with the heart, cannot be assumed without labour, nor continued without
+pain: the motive to relinquish them must, therefore, soon preponderate,
+and the aspect and apparel of the visit will be laid by together: the
+smiles and the languishments of art will vanish, and the fierceness of
+rage, or the gloom of discontent, will either obscure or destroy all the
+elegance of symmetry and complexion.</p>
+
+<p>"The artificial aspect is, indeed, as wretched a substitute for the
+expression of sentiment, as the smear of paint for the blushes of health:
+it is not only equally transient, and equally liable to detection; but, as
+paint leaves the countenance yet more withered and ghastly, the passions
+burst out with more violence after restraint, the features become more
+distorted, and excite more determined aversion.</p>
+
+<p>"Beauty, therefore, depends principally upon the mind, and consequently
+may be influenced by education. It has been remarked, that the predominent
+passion may generally be discovered in the countenance; because the
+muscles by which it is expressed, being almost perpetually contracted,
+lose their tone, and never totally relax; so that the expression remains
+when the passion is suspended: thus, an angry, a disdainful, a subtle, and
+a suspicious temper, is displayed in characters that are almost
+universally understood. It is equally true of the pleasing and the softer
+passions, that they leave their signatures upon the countenance when they
+cease to act. The prevalence of these passions, therefore, produces a
+mechanical effect upon the aspect, and gives a turn and cast to the
+features, which make a more favourable and forcible impression upon the
+mind of others, than any charm produced by mere external causes.</p>
+
+<p>"Neither does the beauty which depends upon temper and sentiment, equally
+endanger the possessor: it is, to use an eastern metaphor, 'like the
+towers of a city--not only an ornament, but a defence:' if it excite
+desire, it at once controls and refines it; it represses with awe, it
+softens with delicacy, and it wins to imitation. The love of reason and of
+virtue is mingled with the love of beauty; because this beauty is little
+more than the emanation of intellectual excellence, which is not an object
+of corporeal appetite. As it excites a purer passion, it also more
+forcibly engages to fidelity: every man finds himself more powerfully
+restrained from giving pain to goodness than to beauty; and every look of
+a countenance in which they are blended, in which beauty is the expression
+of goodness, is a silent reproach to the first irregular wish; and the
+purpose immediately appears to be disingenuous and cruel, by which the
+tender hope of ineffable affection would be disappointed, the placid
+confidence of unsuspecting simplicity abused, and the peace even of virtue
+endangered, by the most sordid infidelity, and the breach of the strongest
+obligations.</p>
+
+<p>"But the hope of the hypocrite must perish.--When the factitious beauty
+has laid by her smiles; when the lustre of her eyes, and the bloom of her
+cheeks, have lost their influence with their novelty; what remains, but a
+tyrant divested of power, who will never be seen without a mixture of
+indignation and disdain? The only desire which this object could gratify,
+will be transferred to another, not only without reluctance, but
+with triumph.</p>
+
+<p>"Let it, therefore, be remembered, that none can be disciples of the
+GRACES, but in the school of VIRTUE; and that those who wish to be
+LOVELY, must learn early to be GOOD."</p>
+
+<p>In the next transaction, Sarah appears in a still more unfavourable light
+than in the former part of her history. In whatever degree the
+circumstances in which she was placed may seem to extenuate the guilt of
+her conduct in Egypt, they can no longer be pleaded on her behalf. She is
+not now overawed by the authority of her husband, or seduced by an
+affection, which would, at all hazards, endeavour to save his valuable
+life; but becomes the voluntary tempter to a violation of divine
+institutions, by which she not only manifested her unbelief, but
+sacrifices to unworthy motives her domestic peace.</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding the divine assurance, that the posterity of Abraham should
+become a great nation, and possess the land of Canaan, Sarah begins to
+think that there is no probability of her becoming a mother. Ten years had
+elapsed, and no child was born. Reflecting on her advanced period of life,
+and incapable of an implicit reliance upon the power of God, she requested
+Abraham to take Hagar, her Egyptian handmaid, in order that she might
+obtain children by her. It is scarcely possible to imagine a proposal more
+calculated to subvert the comfort of her family, or more illustrative of
+an unbelieving spirit. She could not rely upon the slow but certain
+operations of a superintending Providence to fulfil those promises which
+had been given; although a humble faith would have cherished confidence in
+his word. He who has filled the volume of inspiration with "exceeding
+great and precious promises," will assuredly accomplish them,
+notwithstanding every apparent impediment. Omnipotence marches forward
+with a steady, undeviating step, to its predestined purpose; and that
+infinite wisdom which originally planned the future, can never be
+frustrated or confused by any contingencies or vicissitudes; for no
+possible event can occur which was not fully anticipated at the moment
+when the promise was given.</p>
+
+<p>Sarah was not only under the influence of distrust, but of inordinate
+desire. She was impatient for one of those prime domestic comforts which
+it was seen fit at present to deny her; and because the time which had
+elapsed, exceeded her calculations of probability, she took upon herself
+to devise a plan to hasten the accomplishment of her wishes. Let us beware
+of an undue eagerness after the possession of any temporal enjoyment. It
+will not only produce distrust, but, probably, precipitate us into
+irregular means of gratifying our wishes. "Inordinate desires commonly
+produce irregular endeavours. If our wishes be not kept in submission to
+God's providence, our pursuits will scarcely be kept under the restraints
+of his precepts."</p>
+
+<p>It is truly surprising, that the father of the faithful should listen to
+this insinuating request. Possibly he thought that, as Sarah was not
+distinctly mentioned in the promise, Hagar might become the parent of the
+promised seed; and by this specious pretence, being anxious for a son, he
+was induced to comply. We are easily persuaded, when our own inclinations
+already concur with a proposal; and even good men are very liable to
+misinterpret the intimations of Providence, whenever they consult their
+own feelings rather than the word of God.</p>
+
+<p>It is remarked, that "Abraham hearkened to the voice of SARAH." This was
+his error. There was another voice he should have heard. If he had any
+doubts upon his mind, or any suspicion that his present wife was not the
+predestined mother of the numerous posterity that were to people Canaan,
+he should at least have betook himself to prayer. In a day of such
+remarkable revelations, and in an affair of so much consequence, he might
+reasonably have expected an express direction from heaven; and he who had
+been already so privileged, ought to have unbosomed his thoughts and
+explained his desires to the Lord. Let such as sustain the closest
+connexion, beware of becoming snares instead of helps to each other!
+Previous to a compliance with any important request that may lead to
+considerable consequences, Let us, from whatever quarter it proceed, or
+however justifiable it may appear, promptly avail ourselves of that
+gracious throne, which is always accessible to the humble petitioner. We
+are liable to so many misconceptions, exposed to the influence of so many
+prejudices, and subject to the attacks of such a variety of temptations,
+that our only security is in the exercise of a devotional spirit, our only
+help is in the Lord our God. If any man lack wisdom, let him repair to the
+fountain of intelligence, and solicit those supplies from heaven which are
+not only freely dispensed, but fully adequate to our diversified
+necessities.</p>
+
+<p>The consequence of this unsanctioned proceeding, was precisely what might
+have been expected. Elated with the honour of her situation, Sarah is
+despised by her Egyptian handmaid. She treats her with contempt and
+impertinence, as if she were the peculiar favourite of Heaven, and hoping
+no doubt, that the ample promises of God were to be fulfilled by her
+means. Knowing what human nature is, we cannot wonder at this disposition,
+culpable as it was. Nothing is more common than for persons, when raised
+above the meanness of their birth, and the inferiority of their former
+circumstances, to be guilty of assuming airs of importance, and to forget
+their most obvious duties: and we would caution servants especially
+against such unwarrantable conduct. If divine favours should be conferred
+upon them; if by the grace of God they should be made partakers of that
+spiritual dignity which genuine religion confers, and be thus placed upon
+a level with their masters or mistresses in the Christian church, let them
+remember that they are not exempted from a civil subserviency. They are by
+no means elevated above their natural situation as <i>servants,</i> because
+they become <i>Christians</i>; but all the peculiar claims of domestic duty
+remain. An aspiring, or a haughty spirit, is unbecoming their newly
+acquired character, and shows that they have very imperfectly learned of
+him who was "meek and lowly of heart." Every person is respectable in his
+station, exactly in proportion as it is properly occupied; and real
+religion, instead of disqualifying for subordinate situations, is adapted
+to produce contentment, and to dictate an exemplary and uniform
+correctness of conduct in <i>whatever</i> condition we may be placed by
+Providence. "Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters,
+according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your
+heart, as unto Christ: not with eye-service, as men-pleasers; but as the
+servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will
+doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: knowing that whatsoever
+good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether
+he be bond or free." "Let as many servants as are under the yoke, count
+their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his
+doctrine be not blasphemed. And they that have believing masters, let them
+not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service,
+because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit."</p>
+
+<p>If Hagar behaved with impertinence and vanity, Sarah manifested a very
+censurable degree of resentment. Irritated by her handmaid's arrogance,
+she appealed to Abraham, protesting that she could not endure such
+insolence, and charging him with a secret connivance, if not an
+encouragement of her provoking behaviour. Thus we perceive a specimen of
+what will generally prove the case in family dissensions--both were in the
+wrong. Hagar was aspiring and rude; Sarah passionate and severe. If the
+former should have recollected her obligations, the latter ought not to
+have forgotten her own foolishness in raising her above her natural level,
+and placing her in circumstances of powerful temptation. The one should
+have known her place; the other have kept her temper. Let the modern
+mistress and servant take a lesson from this unhappy difference. How many
+intestine commotions might be prevented, if inferiors would not overstep
+the proper limits of their sphere; and if superiors in station would be
+conciliating in spirit; "The beginning of strife is as when one letteth
+out water; therefore leave off contention before it be meddled with."</p>
+
+<p>Abraham wisely avoided all interference in this affair; and though his
+beloved Sarah had appealed to him in very intemperate terms, he gave a
+soft answer. "Behold thy maid is in thy hand; do to her as it pleaseth
+thee." He refrained from all self-vindication, to which he seemed called
+by the violent appeal of his wife; but if he thought proper either to
+defend himself, or to remonstrate with her, he chose another occasion.
+When the passions are inflamed, the judgment is seldom sufficiently
+unbiassed to listen to reason or to consult propriety. It has been
+questioned, however, whether in this instance he was not too submissive.
+The Egyptian maid seemed entitled to protection; and, instead of yielding
+to the rage of Sarah, he should have interposed his <i>meditation</i>, and if
+necessary, his <i>authority</i>, to restore peace.</p>
+
+<p>Incapable of resisting the combined assaults of jealousy, rage, and
+revenge, the poor foreigner is driven from the roof of Abraham. She fled
+into the wilderness with the view of returning to her native country, but
+was suddenly arrested in her flight by an angelic messenger, who
+admonished her to return to her mistress, and pacify her by ready and
+unconditional submission. He also predicted the character and habits of
+her future offspring, mentioning the name by which he was to be called,
+and consoling her in this season of tribulation by an assurance that "the
+Lord had heard her affliction." She instantly retracted her steps; and, as
+no intimation is given to the contrary, we may infer that the fugitive was
+restored to her situation in the family. She was humble, and Sarah
+conciliated: and as we hear nothing of her for some years, they probably
+lived in tolerable harmony. It was a merciful interposition to send her
+back to the family of Abraham; for a connexion with the people of God,
+whatever may be their faults, is far more desirable than the richest
+inheritance, or the noblest alliance, where religion is discarded
+or unknown.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ 1898]</p>
+
+<p>As the birth of the Egyptian's son was attended by no divine
+congratulations, Abraham is still permitted to pass thirteen years more in
+a state of suspense respecting the promised child; when at the age of
+ninety-nine, the covenant is renewed by another revelation. On this
+remarkable occasion his wife received the name by which we have uniformly
+called her, Abraham being distinctly assured of her predestined privilege
+as the mother of the promised seed. A similar change of name was conferred
+upon the patriarch. Hitherto he had been called <i>Abram</i>, a "high," or
+"eminent father;" now he is to be <i>Abraham</i>, "the father of a great
+multitude." His beloved wife, who had been called <i>Sarai</i>, "my princess,"
+was in future to be distinguished by the name of <i>Sarah</i>, "a princess,"
+denoting a more extensive honour. If he were to become the <i>Father</i>, she
+was to be the <i>Mother</i>, of "many nations."</p>
+
+<p>Having already witnessed the misconduct of Abraham's wife on two memorable
+occasions, it would be highly gratifying to hear, in the next circumstance
+of her history, that she acted worthy of her connexion with so illustrious
+a husband, But alas! we are still necessitated to derive instruction
+rather from a record of her faults than of her excellencies. We must
+expect to witness a variety of these in every human character, combined
+only with comparatively a small number of shining graces. Indeed we find,
+in general, but one very distinguishing good quality associated with those
+of a different complexion; and if the plant of grace spring up and grow in
+the human character, it is usually in a thicket of inferior principles and
+unholy propensities. While, therefore, engaged in the cultivation of our
+hearts, in "keeping them with all diligence," as the wise king of Israel
+expresses it; one very important duty we owe to ourselves is to watch the
+appearance of these irregularities, and aim, by unremitting attention,
+united with fervent prayer, to eradicate them from the moral soil. In
+Sarah we see as great a luxuriance of evil as can be imagined to blend
+with real piety, without essentially deteriorating it.</p>
+
+<p>Sitting one day at the door of his tent to enjoy the refreshing shade,
+[<a href="#foot8">8</a>] Abraham observed three strangers approaching, whom he hastened
+to meet, that he might offer them any temporary accommodation in his
+power. This act of hospitality was conformable to the usage of the
+country; but the peculiar generosity of Abraham seems indicated in his
+<i>running</i> to meet them. The invitation is immediately accepted; and the
+good old man, with the most obliging readiness, offered water to wash
+their feet, and bread to satisfy their hunger. He hastened to Sarah,
+directing her to make some cakes of fine meal, and bake them on the
+hearth; and then went himself to the herd to choose a tender calf, which
+he immediately proceeded to dress. Butter and milk, the produce of their
+own pasture, were of course supplied. The venerable patriarch then took
+his respectful standing under the branches of a neighbouring tree, which
+afforded a pleasant screen from the sultry sun. What exquisite simplicity
+is discernible here! what a subject for the painter! what a theme for the
+poet! what an example for the good! Three heavenly messengers at the
+humble table of one of the greatest men that ever inhabited this world--a
+patriarch--a prince--the father of the faithful--the friend of
+God--venerable for age--distinguished by his hospitality--still more
+eminent for faith!--their canopy the overarching sky--their shelter, the
+wide-spreading tree--flocks and herds grazing around, the indications of
+an industry which Providence had blessed with remarkable success--and the
+plain of Mamre spreading its luxuriance before their eyes!--</p>
+
+<p>But we must hasten to the remarkable subject of their conversation. At
+present the patriarch did not suspect the real character of his visiters;
+who introduced their intended communication by asking, "Where is Sarah thy
+wife?" This must have excited great surprise; for how could strangers know
+the affairs of his family, and the particular name of his wife, which had
+been so recently changed? He informed them, however, that she was in the
+tent, where, according to the prevailing custom of the times, she had her
+separate table. One of the angels, immediately personating Jehovah
+himself, if he were not, as appears probable, the very "Angel of the
+Covenant," gave this solemn assurance: "I will certainly return unto thee
+according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son!"
+Sarah, whom curiosity had brought to the door of the tent to listen to
+what passed, overhearing this assurance, and looking upon it as an
+impossible occurrence at her time of life, laughed in derision. She had
+long come to the conclusion that she should produce no son to Abraham,
+and, therefore, that all such expectations were chimerical and ridiculous.
+This excessive incredulity--excessive, because a distinct assurance of the
+fact had been already given to Abraham upon the occasion of their change
+of names--was highly culpable; but while we denounce it with merited
+severity, let us examine our own hearts. Have <i>we</i> never acted in a
+similar manner? Have <i>we</i> never distrusted the providence of God or his
+promises? Who can plead exemption from a spirit of unbelief? What surmises
+have agitated our bosoms, when the events of life contradicted our
+expectations? What despondency have we shown, and what distrust, when the
+movements Omniscience were incomprehensible to our reason, and opposed to
+our apparent interest? If but one part only of the divine proceedings
+seemed incongruous, we have dared to arraign "the whole stupendous plan;"
+if but "a momentary cloud" arose upon our prospect, we have begun to fancy
+that order was at an end, that the sun had for ever disappeared, that God
+had "forgotten to be gracious, and in anger shut up his tender mercies."
+Let us then aim to correct these irregularities of feeling, and to dismiss
+these misinterpretations of providence.</p>
+
+<p>Sarah imagined that her contemptuous incredulity was only known to
+herself: but the heavenly visiter instantly detected it, and appealed to
+Abraham on its impropriety. Possibly the reason of addressing Abraham,
+rather than calling the culprit herself to an account, was to inflict the
+severer reproof. Ah! how vainly do we strive to conceal the secret
+thoughts of the mind from the knowledge of God! His eyes, which run to and
+fro through the earth, penetrate through every disguise, and perfectly
+discern every inward motion as well as every outward action. We live every
+moment--in the darkest midnight as well as at the brightest noon--in the
+full blaze of Omniscience. "O Lord, thou hast searched me and known me:
+thou knowest my down-sitting and mine up-rising; thou understandest my
+thoughts afar off."</p>
+
+<p>Incapable of enduring this exposure, the criminal now rushes from her
+concealment, and boldly calls out, "I laughed not." This was a direct
+falsehood, dictated by apprehension; and it was confronted by the instant
+retort of him who knew her heart: "Nay, but thou <i>didst</i> laugh." It is
+possible that Sarah had some mental reservation, when she so flatly
+denied the assertion of the angel: she might persuade herself that she did
+not absolutely laugh, but only smiled, or felt contempt; but whatever mode
+she might have adopted to explain away her conscious guilt, it was
+unavailable, as every such unworthy subterfuge must always prove.</p>
+
+<p>We cannot help remarking the danger of the least deviation from the path
+of rectitude. One sin prepares the way for the commission of another; one
+step over the edge and boundary of uprightness may lead us down a
+precipice, and plunge us into a fatal series of crimes. We have already
+seen an exemplification of this remark; and it is more strikingly
+illustrated in the present transaction. Curiosity brought her to the door,
+where she was soon betrayed into unbelief: detection soon produced a fear
+of censure; this dread produced a ridiculous attempt at concealment and
+self-justification; and the pride of her heart issued in exciting her to a
+deliberate falsehood. Notwithstanding her incredulity, however, Sarah
+shall bear a son, to be the spring of innumerable blessings to her
+posterity. Thus infinite goodness overrules the perverseness of his
+people, as well as the wrath of sinners, ultimately to promote his
+own designs.</p>
+
+<p>If, on this occasion, the daring transgressor had been smitten to the
+earth by an instantaneous judgment, it must have been regarded as a proper
+expression of the divine displeasure. Her repeated provocations merited
+the severest chastisement, and would undoubtedly have justified such a
+proceeding. The thoughts of Jehovah, however, are not as our thoughts, nor
+his ways as our ways. There is nothing vindictive in the character of the
+blessed God; and if he have on certain occasions launched the thunderbolt
+upon the guilty heads of sinners, the circumstances have shown that the
+atrocity of their iniquities has required a signal visitation. How far
+punishment of this nature may be necessary in any particular case, it is
+not for beings limited in their views as we are to decide, but simply to
+rely on the wisdom of him, who, with a due intermixture of severity and
+mercy, justice and grace, conducts the affairs of the universe.</p>
+
+<p>Overawed by the angelic presence, and mortified by an inward consciousness
+of her folly and sin, Sarah uttered not another word. She could neither
+vindicate her incredulity, nor extenuate her false assertion; and though
+she proceeded to great lengths, we are happy to find that she sufficiently
+restrained her intemperate passions to retire in silence.</p>
+
+<p>From this moment we trust she assumed another character. Reflection
+restored her to her right mind. She dismissed her criminal doubts, and
+resigned herself to the divine disposal. As the predestined period of her
+giving birth to the child of promise was approaching, her faith produced
+the liveliest sensations of joy; and both she and Abraham exulted in the
+prospect of a son. That this was the state of her mind, we are assured
+from indisputable authority: "Through faith Sarah herself received
+strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past
+age, because she judged him faithful who had promised."</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps we may be disposed to say, it was time she <i>did</i> believe. After
+such remarkable manifestations, and such reiterated promises to Abraham,
+it would have been passing strange had she continued incredulous. Surely
+there was enough to convince her, that, whatever difficulties nature might
+present, grace had determined to overcome them, and that every reasonable
+and every possible evidence of the intended miracle had been given. But
+is it so unusual for mankind to resist the most convincing arguments, and
+to disbelieve even the most obvious truth, that the case of Sarah ought to
+be regarded as so extraordinary? Have we not daily proof of a similar
+obstinacy and perverseness? If it be observed that Sarah possessed great
+advantages, being connected with so excellent a man, and so great a
+favourite of Heaven as Abraham, and being visited by angelic messengers,
+and instructed by celestial visions; this may be admitted. But do not
+those who reject the truth of Christianity, or disobey its precepts, act a
+more criminal as well as unreasonable part, inasmuch as they enjoy all the
+instruction and all the experience of past ages? And is it not a more
+outrageous defiance of Heaven to oppose the reality of its manifestations,
+after successive centuries have demonstrated the truth of predictions once
+mysterious, evinced the nature of facts once misunderstood, dispersed the
+typical shadow which once enveloped the sublimest discoveries of infinite
+wisdom, and poured upon a benighted world the full blaze of evangelical
+revelations?--Sarah doubted the possibility of an occurrence which was
+attended with striking difficulties, and evidently miraculous; but what
+censure do not they deserve who shut their eyes against the clearest
+light, perplex with sophisms the most intelligible statements, and
+endeavour, by every exertion of a slanderous tongue and a malignant pen,
+to subvert the basis of our religious hopes, and to undermine a fabric
+which has stood the test of ages, giving repose and refreshment to
+millions of heaven-bound pilgrims on their journey!</p>
+
+<p>To draw the circle of reflection closer.--If <i>our</i> inconsistencies were
+written in a book--if the instances of <i>our</i> unbelief amidst evidences, of
+<i>our</i> failures in temper and spirit, of <i>our</i> misimprovement of the
+peculiar advantages of our situation, were recorded for the warning of
+others--is there any probability that we should acquire much honour by a
+comparison with the wife of Abraham? We do not indeed justify <i>her</i>
+faults, but let us not overlook <i>our own</i>. We have better means, and
+brighter discoveries. In these last days God hath spoken unto us by his
+Son. We are, through faith, become the children of Abraham, interested in
+the new covenant, introduced into the family, and admitted to the
+friendship of God. We have seen the visions of patriarchal days, the
+promises and blessings of the ancient dispensation, the memorable and
+terrific descent of Jehovah on Sinai, the prefigurations of the Mosaic
+economy, the personal glories, the incarnate love, the agonizing death,
+the triumphant ascension of the Son of God: we enjoy means of instruction
+which no other age did or could possess. And wherein consists our
+superiority to former saints, even those whose imperfections are the most
+conspicuous? Surely, the observation may be retorted upon many hearers and
+professors of the gospel, in reference to their too frequent instances of
+inconsistency--it is time you <i>did</i> believe!</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1897.]</p>
+
+<p>The birth of Isaac, the promised seed was attended with great rejoicings.
+His very name, signifying <i>laughter</i>, was expressive of the happy
+occasion; and Sarah, in the ecstacy of her mind, exclaimed, "God hath made
+me to laugh, so that all that hear me will laugh with me." The birth of a
+child is naturally the subject of joy and congratulation; but the
+introduction of Isaac into the world, who had been so long and repeatedly
+promised, demanded and excited unusual satisfaction. Sarah, who introduced
+him with a mother's joy, nursed him herself with a mother's care. She was
+ignorant of the cruel absurdity which modern refinement has invented, of
+separating the tender offspring from its proper guardian and provider, and
+thus not only exposing it to many inconveniences and hardships, but
+nullifying the wise and kind arrangements of Providence. Alas! nature,
+reason, and religion, must all be violated in compliance with fashion!
+Need we feel surprised that barbarity should produce alienation, and that
+she who refuses to show tenderness, should fail of receiving attachment?
+Is it at all astonishing, that habits and sentiments foreign to domestic
+comfort should be acquired; and that, when proper discipline and personal
+superintendence are neglected, the young plant should shoot into unsightly
+irregularities of spirit and character?</p>
+
+<p>How soon may the brightest day be overcast with a cloud! How liable are
+our best enjoyments to interruption! The weaning of Isaac was celebrated
+with great festivities; upon which occasion this favourite child was
+recognized as Abraham's heir. This excited the displeasure of Ishmael;
+which the jealous eye of Sarah observing, she insisted upon the
+instantaneous expulsion of mother and son from the family. We are sorry to
+witness any revival of the old spirit; but, in this world, unholy passions
+cannot be totally eradicated. We should hope, however, there was more
+reason, as well as religion, in her displeasure on this than on a former
+occasion. The young man was, probably, ridiculing the whole ceremony, and
+deriding the parents, the child, and the promise; for passion and
+prejudice are never very discriminating in their censures. Ishmael was, in
+fact, of a wild, ungovernable temper; but we have no evidence that the
+provocation was sufficient to justify the proceeding of Sarah, in
+peremptorily demanding the expulsion of the mother and her child. Thus
+did Abraham's concubinage continue to imbitter his domestic peace; and the
+good old patriarch was again placed in a most difficult and perplexing
+situation.</p>
+
+<p>Whatever feelings may be supposed to have dictated the resolution of
+Sarah, it was coincident with the designs of God; and Abraham, who had
+certainly sought divine direction, was commanded to comply. This would, no
+doubt, quiet the feverish anxiety of his mind; for a consciousness of
+doing the will of God, however contrary it may be to our natural
+inclinations, is sufficient to smooth the roughest path of duty, and to
+lighten the heaviest burden we may be called to sustain. Abraham, in this,
+as well as in various other instances, displayed exemplary faith. The
+bitter draught, however, was somewhat sweetened. It was difficult to
+parental feelings to concur in so severe a measure; but some gleam of
+futurity was afforded to enlighten the darksome but appointed path. "And
+God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight, because of the
+lad, and because of thy bond-woman: in all that Sarah hath said unto thee,
+hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called. And also of
+the son of the bond-woman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed."</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding the faults to which we have found it necessary to advert,
+Sarah was unquestionably a great character. She not only stands recorded
+in the New Testament amongst those who were illustrious in ancient times
+for their faith, but is exhibited as a pattern of domestic conduct. Her
+defects were but occasionally visible, being commonly concealed amidst the
+brightness of her numerous excellencies. Her obedience to Abraham is
+specified by the apostle as a laudable singularity, which, in connexion
+with other virtues, he thus recommends: "Likewise, ye wives, be in
+subjection to your own husbands; that if any obey not the word, they also
+may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; while they
+behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.--Whose adorning let it
+not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold,
+or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in
+that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet
+spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this
+manner, in the old time, the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned
+themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands, even as Sarah
+obeyed Abraham, calling him lord; whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do
+well, and are not afraid with any amazement."</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1859.]</p>
+
+<p>Seven and thirty years after the birth of Isaac and when Sarah had
+attained the age of one hundred and twenty-seven, we come to the
+conclusion of her "mortal story." Her death, and the respect paid to her
+memory, are related with a circumstantial minuteness which is truly
+honourable to her character. This affecting event occurred at Kirjah-Arba,
+or Hebron, in the plain of Mamre, where Abraham came to bemoan his loss.
+Venerable man! thine was no common mourning! Thou didst not merely sit
+upon the ground, assuming the customary attitude of grief; but thine were
+genuine sorrows! What big tears of undissembled pain poured down thine
+aged cheeks! How did affection recal the days, and months, and years of
+delightful union, which time had strengthened, but death had now
+dissolved! And yet, while nature demanded this tribute of fond
+remembrance, religion had taught thee to moderate thy distress, and to
+elevate thy hopes to a brighter world, where holy friendship, begun on
+earth, shall be purified and perpetuated through everlasting ages!</p>
+
+<p>The longevity of ancient times, and especially of the antediluvians,
+naturally excites surprise; but what a dream is human life, even at its
+most protracted period! How soon do even centuries elapse! How solemn the
+consideration, that the flood of ages, which has swept from the surface of
+this globe so many millions of our predecessors, however firm may have
+been their health, or numerous their years, or eminent their characters,
+is daily impelling us forward to the "house appointed for all living."
+<i>Their</i> pilgrimage terminated, and so must <i>ours: their</i> earthly relations
+were dissolved, and <i>their</i> places in society were vacated; and soon the
+place which we occupy, shall "know us no more." The stream flows on, and
+we cannot arrest its course. Happy for us, if it should appear that we are
+going to join the society of the blessed; if, possessing the faith of
+Abraham, we have reason to indulge the hope of being eventually
+transported to his bosom!</p>
+
+<p>Sitting in imagination at the grave of Sarah, and blending our
+sympathizing tears with those of her honoured husband, what a lesson may
+we learn respecting the vanity of human life! The flower whose exquisite
+beauty and attractive sweetness once excited so much desire, is faded, and
+mingled with common dust! There lies a form, which <i>was</i> so lovely and so
+beloved, to furnish a repast for creeping worms! How bereft of that spirit
+which once animated it! How altered and defaced by the putrifying touch of
+mortality! Here the race of life terminates; and to this loathsome
+dwelling, the proudest, the fairest, the wealthiest, <i>the</i> most
+celebrated, and the most elevated of our race, must sooner or later
+descend! "Prepare to meet thy God!"</p>
+
+<p>We may take a momentary glance at another consideration. In order to
+answer the great end of their being, in order to be furnished with
+adequate means for the employment of their immortal faculties, and for
+possessing that plenitude of felicity of which their sanctified natures
+are capable, the saints of God must be removed out of the present world.
+Often do they exclaim, "I loath it; I would not live alway:"--"O that I
+had wings like a dove; for then would I flee away and be at rest!"</p>
+
+<p>This prevailing <i>wish</i> accords with the <i>purpose</i> of Heaven. Infinite
+benevolence cannot allow a spiritual and sanctified character always to be
+imprisoned within the narrow confines of flesh and blood. It could never
+be satisfied to assign the objects of its affection so mean a portion as
+the pleasures and the possessions of this inferior state of existence.
+They must <i>die</i> to be perfectly <i>blest</i>. This earth <i>will not do</i> for a
+Christian in the <i>maturity</i> of his character. It is too vile, and too
+transitory. Its gold is but dust--its applause, a puff of noisy air--its
+sparkling pleasures, but polluted cisterns--its richest gifts, but
+bubbles, which, if they reflect the fairest colours of the rainbow, break
+when they are grasped, or dissolve as we approach them, into mist and
+nothingness! "Set your affection on things above:--the things which are
+<i>seen</i> are TEMPORAL; the things which are <i>not seen</i> are ETERNAL!"</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="03"></a>Hagar.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter III.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  Retrospective Glance at the History--Hagar--the Wilderness--Angelic
+  Manifestation--Divine Promises--a View of their Accomplishment--Hagar's
+  Piety--her second Banishment and Distress--another
+  Interposition--Providence illustrated.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>The contention between the wife of Abraham and her Egyptian handmaid, has
+already been the subject of animadversion; but although their histories
+are considerably blended, some features in the character of the latter,
+and some affecting circumstances of her life, have been hitherto omitted,
+which seem to claim a separate notice.
+
+That retreat into Egypt, which was in some respects so dishonourable to
+the integrity, both of Abraham and Sarah, was overruled for good. Pharaoh
+showed great kindness to the patriarch, on account of his fair companion,
+who he had been led to suppose was his sister; and according to the custom
+of the age, and the high station of her admirer, he presented him with
+"sheep, and oxen, and he-asses, and men-servants, and <i>maid-servants</i>, and
+she-asses, and camels." No doubt it was at this time Hagar was introduced
+into this pious family, and left her native country to accompany her
+mistress and master upon their return.</p>
+
+<p>The handmaids were a sort of female slaves. They were considered as the
+unalienable property of their mistresses, who claimed the produce of their
+labour, and even the children they bore. [<a href="#foot9">9</a>]</p>
+
+<p>Sarah's impatience for offspring, and the rash policy of her urging
+Abraham to take this Egyptian servant as a concubine, have been already
+mentioned, as well as the unhappy differences it occasioned in the family.
+We have seen the pride of Hagar, the petulance of Sarah, and the consent
+of Abraham that she should be banished from their dwelling. Let us follow
+the fugitive into the wilderness, and observe the extraordinary result.</p>
+
+<p>It was the evident intention of Hagar to escape to her native country. She
+went into the wilderness of Shur, which extended between Canaan and Egypt,
+where she sat down for refreshment by a spring of water. Whatever degree
+of blame we may impute to her in this precipitate removal from the house
+of her pious master, it is impossible not to pity her melancholy
+situation. Alone, and unbefriended by any human being; surrounded by a
+thousand perils in the desert which stretched its cheerless solitude
+before her; expelled from a family where she had so long resided, and
+where she enjoyed so many advantages; uncertain of her future residence;
+and in a condition which peculiarly claims our sympathy with the female
+sufferer; her history cannot but excite inquiry, and produce interest.
+There was an eye that watched her movements and her tears. In a short time
+she is addressed by an unknown voice, which proved to be the voice of one
+of those ministering spirits that are employed to execute the designs of
+infinite goodness. "Hagar," said he, "Sarah's maid, whence earnest thou?
+and whither wilt thou go?"</p>
+
+<p>The knowledge of her past history which this question indicated, must have
+convinced the poor, fugitive that this was some divine visitation; and she
+immediately answered, "I flee from the face of my mistress Sarah." This
+was a simple, direct, ingenuous statement. Here was no concealment; no
+prevarication respecting the whole truth; and how much better was this
+than any attempt at evasion or dishonesty! We are not, indeed, always
+obliged to disclose our circumstances to every inquirer; but, if we do,
+our words ought to be the exact representation of the case: for, sooner or
+later, integrity will be advantageous both to our character and our real
+interests.</p>
+
+<p>The reply of Hagar was, moreover, creditable to her <i>temper</i>, Sarah and
+her handmaid had parted under circumstances of mutual provocation; and the
+latter had, no doubt, suffered very indignant treatment. But she does not
+avail herself of this unexpected interview to enter upon her own
+justification, or to produce a long and formal charge against her
+mistress. The mere fact of her expulsion is stated without any comment. It
+must indeed be admitted, that her introduction into the family of Abraham
+placed her in that inferior condition in which Sarah possessed an
+indisputable right over her person; and it must be also admitted, that she
+had manifested a very unwarrantable vanity in despising her for
+barrenness; yet, judging from her dispassionate language to the angel, we
+should infer that she was naturally of a more patient disposition than her
+mistress, and is in this view worthy of the imitation of young women whom
+Providence consigns to the same menial state. How many would have been
+clamorous and peevish, hasty in censuring their mistress, and forward in
+vindicating themselves! They would have obtruded the story of the fancied
+injuries they had sustained upon every occasion, and wearied with the
+ridiculous recital, every one who might be found willing or unwilling to
+hear their complaints. But Hagar, simply and without any marks of
+irritation or resentment, stated the reason of her being alone in the
+wilderness at the fountain of water.</p>
+
+<p>If our idea be correct, we have here a specimen of a no very unusual
+case. Some who have no claim to the distinction of religious persons,
+which at present was the probable character of Hagar, frequently possess a
+mildness and amiableness of disposition which is peculiarly attractive;
+while those who undoubtedly belong to the superior class of the pious and
+devout, exhibit unhappy defects of temper and disposition. The former
+resemble the flowers of the wilderness, beautiful indeed, and fragrant,
+but wild; the latter, those of the cultivated garden, blooming like the
+rose among thorns. The loveliness of those who are otherwise "far from
+God," excites our admiration, and wins our regard; while the unsightly
+"temper flaws" of such as generally class with the servants of God are
+repulsive and disgusting. In consequence of this, the distinction between
+the two essentially different characters, is not always sufficiently
+marked, or very perceptible; the excellence of the one elevating them
+almost to the dignity of saints, and the defects of the other sinking them
+almost to the meanness of sinners. But we should be cautious in passing
+our judgment, lest we also be judged. Let us not undervalue the sterling
+worth of the genuine Christian, because it is blended with some obvious,
+or even some glaring incongruities. Let us equally beware of attributing
+undue value to the good qualities of the worldling, and thus annihilate
+the distinction between the natural and spiritual character.</p>
+
+<p>It was happy for Hagar that the angel was sent to arrest her progress.
+After her explicit declaration of the reason of her flight, she was
+directed to return to her mistress, and submit herself. This was, perhaps,
+a hard saying, and a haughty spirit might easily have raised ingenious and
+perverse objections; but we have additional evidence of this young
+woman's good disposition, in her receiving the mandate with a silent
+obedience of spirit. Her best interests were likely to be more promoted by
+her returning into a pious family, notwithstanding all its faults, than in
+going to reside amongst the idolaters of her native country; and thus,
+when she knew not how to choose for herself, the goodness of God was
+displayed in appointing the bounds of her habitation. This command would
+prove to her, and should teach us, that whatever provocations or injuries
+we may have sustained, these cannot justify a wrong proceeding; and we
+should hasten to retrieve our error by retracing our steps.</p>
+
+<p>This, however, was only the secondary purpose of the present remarkable
+manifestation. Words of astonishing import immediately followed. Hagar was
+promised a numerous offspring, although the Messiah was not to descend
+from her; and the promise was pronounced in a manner so solemn, so
+significant, so overwhelming, that her eyes were opened to see it was no
+other than the patriarch's God that assured her of a participation in the
+patriarch's blessing. "And the angel of the Lord said unto her, I will
+multiply thy seed exceedingly, that it shall not be numbered for
+multitude. And the angel of the Lord said unto her, Behold, thou art with
+child, and shalt bear a son, and shalt call his name Ishmael; because the
+Lord hath heard thy affliction. And he will be a wild man; his hand will
+be against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell
+in the presence of all his brethren." Similar promises were afterward
+reiterated: "Behold, I have blessed him, (Ishmael) and will make him
+fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he
+beget, and I will make him a great nation."--"And also of the son of the
+bond-woman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed."--"I will make
+him a great nation."</p>
+
+<p>These predictions have been minutely accomplished. The posterity of
+Ishmael may be traced in the Ishmaelites, the Hagarenes, the Itureans, and
+Arabs; especially the Scenites and Saracens, the latter of whom erected
+one of the largest empires in the world. To this day the Arabs are not
+only a distinct people, but possess the original character of their
+father, fierce and unsettled, living in a state of perpetual hostility
+against the rest of the world. Every attempt to subdue or extirpate them,
+has proved abortive. The Egyptians and Assyrians were equally
+unsuccessful, and whatever partial dominion Cyrus and the Persians might
+obtain, they could never penetrate the interior of the country, or reduce
+them to tributary subjection. In vain did Alexander plan their
+destruction; the hand of Providence interposed to prevent it by his death.
+The Romans could never conquer Arabia; and they continued to molest their
+neighbours by incessant incursions. Under Mohammed they became a mighty
+empire, and though it was ultimately dissolved, they still maintained
+their liberty in defiance of the Tartars, Mamelukes, and Turks.</p>
+
+<p>"Who," inquires a great writer, "can fairly consider and lay all these
+particulars together, and not perceive the hand of God in this whole
+affair, from the beginning to the end? The sacred historian saith, that
+these prophecies concerning Ishmael were delivered partly by the angel of
+the Lord, and partly by God himself: and indeed, who but God, or one
+raised and commissioned by him, could describe so particularly the genius
+and manners, not only of a single person before he was born, but of a
+whole race of people, from the first founder of the race to the present
+time? It was somewhat wonderful, and not to be foreseen by human sagacity
+or prudence, that a man's whole posterity should so nearly resemble him,
+and retain the same inclinations, the same habits, the same customs
+throughout all ages. The waters of the purest spring or fountain are soon
+changed and polluted in their course, and the farther still they flow, the
+more they are incorporated and lost in other waters. How have the modern
+Italians degenerated from the courage and virtues of the old Romans? How
+are the French and English polished and refined from the barbarianism of
+the ancient Gauls and Britons? Men and manners change with times; but in
+all changes and revolutions, the Arabs have still continued the same with
+little or no alteration. And yet it cannot be said of them, as some
+barbarous nations, that they have had no commerce or intercourse with the
+rest of mankind; for by their conquests they overran a great part of the
+earth, and for some centuries were masters of most of the learning that
+was then in the world; but, however, they remained, and still remain the
+same fierce, savage, intractable people, like their great ancestor in
+every thing, and different from most of the world besides. Ishmael was
+circumcised, and so are his posterity to this day; and as Ishmael was
+circumcised when he was thirteen years old, so were the Arabs at the same
+age, according to Josephus. He was born of Hagar, who was a concubine; and
+they still indulge themselves in the use of mercenary wives and
+concubines. He lived in tents in the wilderness, shifting from place to
+place; and so do his descendants, particularly those therefore called
+Scenites formerly, and those called Bedoweens at this day. He was an
+archer in the wilderness, and so are they. He was to be the father of
+twelve princes, or heads of tribes; and they live in clans or tribes at
+this day. He was a wild man, his hand against every man, and every man's
+hand against him; and they live in the same state of war, their hand
+against every man, and every man's hand against them.</p>
+
+<p>"This, I say, is somewhat wonderful, that the same people should retain
+the same dispositions for so many ages: but it is still more wonderful,
+that with these dispositions and this enmity to the whole world, they
+should still subsist, in spite of the world, an independent and free
+people. It cannot be pretended, that no probable attempts were ever made
+to conquer them; for the greatest conquerors in the world have almost all,
+in their turns, attempted it. It cannot be pretended, that the dryness or
+inaccessibleness of their country hath been their preservation; for their
+country hath been often penetrated, though never entirely subdued. I know
+that Diodorus Siculus accounts for their preservation from the dryness of
+their country; that they have wells digged in proper places known only to
+themselves, and their enemies and invaders, through ignorance of these
+places, perish for want of water; but this account is far from being an
+adequate and just representation of the case. Large armies have found
+the means of subsistence in their country; none of their powerful invaders
+ever desisted on this account; and therefore, that they have not been
+conquered, we must impute to some other cause. When, in all human
+probability, they were upon the brink of ruin, then they were signally and
+providentially delivered. Alexander was preparing an expedition against
+them, when an inflammatory fever cut him off in the flower of his age.
+Pompey was in the career of his conquests, when urgent affairs called him
+elsewhere. &AElig;lius Gallus had penetrated far into the country, when a fatal
+disease destroyed great numbers of his men, and obliged him to return.
+Trajan besieged their capital city, but was defeated by thunder and
+lightning, whirlwinds, and other prodigies, and that as often as he
+renewed his assaults. Severus besieged the same city twice, and was twice
+repelled from before it; and the historian, Dion, a man of rank and
+character, though a heathen, plainly ascribes the defeat of the two
+emperors to the interposition of a Divine Power. We who know the
+prophecies, may be more assured of the reality of a divine interposition;
+and, indeed, otherwise how could a single nation stand out against the
+enmity of the whole world for any length of time, and much more for near
+4000 years together; the great empires round them have all in their turn
+fallen to ruin, while they have continued the same from the beginning, and
+are likely to continue the same to the end: and this, in the natural
+course of human affairs, was so highly improbable, if not altogether
+impossible, that as nothing but a Divine Prescience could have foreseen
+it, so nothing but a Divine Power could have accomplished it." [<a href="#foot10">10</a>]</p>
+
+<p>To return to Hagar. The effect of this angelic visitation was her
+conversion to the knowledge and love of God. The advantages of her former
+situation in the family of Abraham, do not seem to have produced any
+remarkable change of character; but in this the day of her affliction, in
+this the sad hour of her retreat and solitude, she is taught to pray. So
+true is it, that "thy people shall be <i>willing</i> in the day of <i>thy
+power</i>!" How often have those means which to human apprehension seemed
+best calculated to produce a renovation of heart utterly failed, while the
+Spirit of God has successfully operated by methods and in situations the
+least expected to avail! Happy solitude that brings us into the society
+of God! Welcome affliction that subdues us to his will!</p>
+
+<p>In the transports of holy affection, Hagar addressed Jehovah by a phrase,
+importing "Thou, God, seest me;" and intimated the unexpected but welcome
+nature of the discoveries she had made, and of that influence which drew
+her after God in faith, and hope, and love:--"Have I also here looked
+after him that seeth me?" As a memento of this wonderful interposition,
+she named the spring of water by which she was sitting, "Beer-lahai-roi,"
+that is, "The well of him that liveth and seeth me."</p>
+
+<p>Hagar, in adopting this language, expressed her <i>grateful sense of the
+divine interposition</i>. She felt conscious that in her present
+circumstances she might have perished alone and unpitied; or, if she had
+survived, and taken up her residence in Egypt she would have remained
+destitute of the religious instruction already received, and the future
+advantages of pious intercourse. Her gratitude was blended with a feeling
+of humility, a consciousness of unworthiness. What could be more
+surprising, than that an angel should descend from the splendour of the
+divine presence, to converse with a poor wanderer in the wilderness of
+Shur, and console her by such wonderful promises? These benevolent spirits
+appear to have maintained a frequent intercourse with the best inhabitants
+of our globe in former ages, and to have been intrusted with the holy
+ministration of attending the Son of God in his incarnate state. If, since
+the completion of the canon of Scripture, the necessity of angelic visits
+be superseded, we ought nevertheless to record the goodness of a
+superintending Providence. He who forms a just estimate of his mercies,
+may surely fill the diary of every day with grateful notices, and cannot
+take even a cursory retrospect of the years of past existence, without
+recollecting some striking interpositions which should often renew his
+praise and thanksgiving. Have we not been sustained in weakness, guided in
+perplexity, healed in sickness, supplied in poverty, or defended in
+danger? Let not insensibility and forgetfulness add to the already large
+accumulations of our guilt.</p>
+
+<p>The words of Hagar ought also to be regarded as indicative of <i>pious
+resignation of spirit</i> amidst the adversities of life. It is common in
+calamitous circumstances, or in afflictions which seem immediately
+occasioned by others upon whom we may have been dependent, or with whom we
+have been in any way connected, to exclaim against the cruelty of our
+enemy, or the malice of such as have been instrumental in producing our
+unhappiness; but Hagar utters no complaints against Sarah, who had driven
+her into the wilderness, where she and her infant offspring might
+have perished.</p>
+
+<p>This is instructive. Admitting that we are not mistaken in our views, and
+that others may be really cruel; if we consider affliction aright, we
+shall leave the instrument to the judgment of God, and be solicitous only
+of glorifying him, by possessing our souls in patience. Joseph afterward
+was an illustrious specimen of this disposition. "Now, therefore," said he
+to his brethren, "be not grieved nor angry with yourselves that ye sold me
+hither; for God did send me before you to preserve life."</p>
+
+<p>All second causes constitute but the machinery on which the great First
+Cause operates. If we look merely to <i>them</i>, we shall find an endless
+source of disquietude: if to <i>him</i>, who regulates the whole system of
+means, we cannot fail of obtaining satisfaction and peace of mind.
+Resignation is to be distinguished from a stoical indifference, or a
+sullen insensibility, occasioned by the conviction that, as afflictions
+could not be avoided, they must be borne; that it is in vain to struggle
+or resist; and that our weakness renders endurance necessary, however
+irksome. It consists rather in a pious acquiescence in the will of Heaven,
+arising from a persuasion that God knows what is really best for us; and
+that his dispensations, however painful or opposite to our wishes, will
+prove conducive to our real benefit. He uses the corrective rod, not the
+destroying sword. If he amputate the disordered member, it is to save
+the life.</p>
+
+<p><i>Cheerful hope for the future</i> seems also to breathe through the
+expressions of Hagar, in which she is worthy of our imitation. Past
+interpositions form a solid foundation for future confidence. "Surely,"
+said David, "goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."
+Disconsolate believer, be assured that the pillar of cloud, which has
+hitherto directed thy path, shall accompany thee to the very borders of
+Canaan! "Fear not," says Jehovah, "for I am with thee; be not dismayed,
+for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I
+will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness--I will never
+leave thee, nor forsake thee."</p>
+
+<p>It is natural to wish to pry into futurity. We are impatient to penetrate
+the clouds that envelope us, and to discern the distant course which
+Providence has prescribed for our feet. Curiosity combines with
+self-interest to urge this inquiry; but the reproof which Peter received
+is justly merited by ourselves: "What is that to thee? Follow thou me." If
+we follow Christ, we have nothing to dread; if we desert him, we have
+nothing to hope. Futurity can be no source of alarm to him who is
+conscious of acting right. It is filled with no "Gorgons, and hydras, and
+chimeras dire," but to the distempered imagination of the guilty spirit;
+and, therefore, if we would escape <i>misery</i>, we must resist <i>sin</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The language in question may be considered as expressive of
+<i>self-dedication.</i> "Thou, God, seest me," my wants, my wishes, my entire
+situation! I have no will but thine; no desire but what I readily submit
+that thou shalt gratify or disappoint according to thy pleasure. If thou
+inflict chastisement, I will cheerfully sustain it; if thou afford
+prosperity, I will humbly enjoy and improve it. I will no longer live to
+myself; I am not my own. I agree to the transfer of all my powers,
+talents, and possessions to thy service. My whole being shall henceforth
+be at thy disposal; it shall become thy absolute and inalienable property:
+this is a "living sacrifice" which I admit to be "reasonable," which I
+rejoice to believe is "holy and acceptable." In time past I have "sown to
+the flesh;" let this suffice--another principle influences me--another
+motive shall evermore predominate.</p>
+
+<p>A resolution of this nature must be dictated by the lowest opinion of
+ourselves, and the highest idea of God: and what is our proper situation,
+but in the dust? and where should we place God, but on the throne? To
+acknowledge this in theory, and to abandon it in practice, is to trifle
+both with ourselves and with him.</p>
+
+<p>Entire dedication to God is by no means incompatible with the duties of
+life. It is possible to be "diligent in business," but "fervent in spirit,
+serving the Lord." We contend not for a voluntary seclusion from society,
+seeking the retirements of the cloister or the retreats of the wilderness:
+but we plead with you, whatever situation you occupy, to set God always
+before your eyes, to act as in his sight, and daily to realize the true
+character of saints as "strangers and pilgrims on earth." Religion, that
+flower of paradise, was never intended to "waste its sweetness on the
+desert air;" but to flourish in society, and to diffuse its sacred
+perfumes in every walk of life.</p>
+
+<p>This elevation of piety, so far from poisoning the springs of human joy,
+so far from imbittering the cordials of our cup, will refine every
+enjoyment and purify every pleasure. It will blunt the keen edge of
+sorrow, and smooth the asperities of adversity. It will bring down heaven
+to earth, and render death itself a desirable passage to everlasting life.
+Let us accustom ourselves to contemplate the most eminent examples of this
+spirit, that, by daily imitating them, we may, through grace, be
+progressively "meetening" for the participation of their inheritance.</p>
+
+<p>If it were not Hagar's immediate intention, her language may at least be
+adopted to express a <i>constant sense of the divine omniscience</i>. No idea
+is so calculated to animate us in the discharge of duty, or to sustain us
+in submission to evil. In the ancient Olympic games, how must the
+consciousness of twenty or thirty thousand witnesses of their efforts have
+stimulated the Grecian combatants, ranged as they were around them in an
+amphitheatre, and consisting of the first magistrates of the kingdom! But
+how much more impressive and awful is the persuasion that the great eye of
+the universe is upon us in our Christian race; that the "King
+eternal, immortal, invisible," watches every movement, and beholds with
+approbation or kindles into wrath, as we persevere or draw back to
+perdition! He sees in solitude and in society, in the crowded city and the
+distant wilderness. On the one hand, he witnesses the aversion and
+rebellion of the wicked; on the other, he gathers the tears of penitence
+into his bottle, records the petitions of faith in his book, and amidst
+the music of angels, bends his listening ear to the sighs of the
+sorrowful.</p>
+
+<p>Let Christians remember that they have a mighty struggle to sustain, but
+their resources are inexhaustible. They have to contend with the powers of
+darkness and the corruptions of nature. In the issue of this contest
+heaven and hell are interested; the one, that you should fail; the other,
+that you should come off "more than conquerors." Angels are waiting on the
+shores of immortality to see the final result, and are already tuning
+their harps to sound your victory through the universe. The ascended
+Saviour addresses you from the skies: "Be thou faithful unto death, and I
+will give thee a crown of life."</p>
+
+<p>In the preceding chapter, the occasion of Hagar's second banishment from
+the family of Abraham was related. During the festivities which were
+observed at the weaning of Isaac, her son indulged himself in profane
+mockery; the consequence of which was, that Sarah insisted upon the
+instant expulsion of mother and child. Notwithstanding Abraham's
+repugnance to this proceeding, he was induced to it by divine a command.
+Early in the morning he dismissed Hagar and her son, with a bottle of
+water and some bread, with which she hastened away into the wilderness of
+Beersheba. This scanty supply was soon exhausted, and the unhappy
+fugitives became reduced to the greatest distress. What could an
+unprotected female do in such melancholy circumstances, but simply commit
+herself to the guidance of Providence, and pursue, though she knew not
+whither, her adventurous way? Past deliverances ought to inspire
+confidence in every season of suffering; and we cannot but hope that her
+mind was long consoled, by the recollection of the heavenly interposition
+which she had enjoyed sixteen years ago, in her first banishment. No
+resentful feelings, no irritating language is recorded; and doubtless
+Abraham dismissed her with as much kindness as the peculiarity of the
+circumstances admitted.</p>
+
+<p>But behold a most tragical scene. In a few days the water is spent in the
+bottle. Poor Hagar pants along the solitary desert, turning hither and
+thither in search of some scanty supply. Not a drop of refreshment is to
+be found; till at length, arriving at some shrubs, she sat down with her
+exhausted--and, as she imagined, her <i>dying</i> child, beneath the welcome
+shade. Nothing but silence and solitude reigned around her. The burning
+sun had scorched up every sign of vegetation. She was driven from a pious
+family; but she had no home, no friend, no helper! Officious kindness,
+which often soothes the agonies of death, was denied her. None were at
+hand to soothe her mind, or wipe away her tears; and her maternal heart
+was rent by the distracting expectation of her son's dissolution. At the
+very point of despair, she left Ishmael under a shrub, and retired to some
+distance to avoid the sight of his expiring agonies.</p>
+
+<p>Who can imagine the pain of this excruciating moment, or the bitterness of
+the tears she shed! O what lamentations did she utter, and perhaps what
+self-reproaches for her undervaluation of past mercies! What regrets that
+she encouraged, or probably did not suppress and correct, the perverse
+spirit of her son!</p>
+
+<p>While we pity her desperate condition, we must not apologize for her sins.
+After the remarkable assurances which the angel had given her on a former
+occasion, it was criminal unbelief in Hagar to sit down in despondency,
+and conclude that she and her son must inevitably perish: and yet this is
+but a specimen of the distrust which is too frequently manifested, even by
+those who profess to rely upon the promises of God. Happy for us, if, in
+cases of far less extremity, we have not been tempted to forget our
+mercies and relinquish our confidence!</p>
+
+<p>The sighs of the lad were heard. An angel again appeared to his desponding
+mother--"What aileth thee, Hagar? Fear not, for God hath heard the voice
+of the lad where he is: arise, and lift up the lad, and hold him in thine
+hand; for I will make him a great nation." At the instant of this address,
+God is said to have opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water, whence
+she replenished the bottle, and supplied her fainting son. He revived, and
+afterward settled in the wilderness of Paran with his mother, and probably
+maintained her by the use of the bow. So wonderfully does the providence
+of God accomplish its predestined purposes!</p>
+
+<p>This distressing circumstance in the life of Hagar was a link in a great
+chain of events, which were connected together by an invisible agency, and
+held in the divine hands. A superficial observer might see nothing in all
+that transpired but a curious concurrence of ordinary events. The
+insolence of Ishmael irritated the temper of Sarah; she procured his
+expulsion, and that of his mother from her household; retiring in
+disgrace, she narrowly escaped destruction in the wilderness, and
+afterward took up a casual residence in the vicinity. But if we pay a
+proper attention to these events, we shall view them with another eye.
+Every circumstance was connected with a vast providential plan, and tended
+to illustrate the power and sovereignty of God in the accomplishment of
+his designs. The folly of Ishmael, the conduct of Sarah, the compliance
+of Abraham, the various occurrences connected with the settlement in
+Paran, concurred to <i>fulfil a divine prediction</i>, and thus to evince the
+superintendence of God over all human affairs. "Surely the wrath of man
+shall praise thee, and the remainder of wrath wilt thou restrain."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="04"></a>Lot's Wife.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter IV.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  Delusions to which the Young in particular are exposed--Lot's erroneous
+  Choice--Sin brings Punishment--Advantages of Lot's Wife--Her remarkable
+  Deliverance--Her Guilt--General Causes of Apostacy traced, Fear, Love of
+  the World, Levity of Mind, Pride--Doom of Lot's Wife.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>"Judge not," said our Saviour, "according to the appearance, but judge
+righteous judgment." This is a maxim which, though originally uttered in
+vindication of his character against the reproaches of the Jews, is
+capable of a more extensive application.</p>
+
+<p>Captivated by the fascinating exterior of the world, the prospect of
+temporal advantage, and diversified enjoyment, how many neglect to
+regulate their desires by those superior principles which Revelation
+inculcates, and which alone can secure substantial happiness! The young,
+especially suffer by this delusion. Lively in imagination, but immature in
+judgment; easily, and therefore frequently deceived; they are hurried into
+those premature determinations which cannot be corrected when they come to
+discover their mistakes. It is to be deeply deplored, when young persons,
+through refusing to listen to the dictates of wisdom or the suggestions of
+experienced age, precipitate themselves into misery, and sacrifice to the
+fleeting possessions and pleasures of this life, the higher interests of
+another existence. Deeming themselves privileged to disregard, if not to
+ridicule religion, by virtue of their age, rank, or talents; and living as
+though they held their present being by no precarious tenure, they trifle
+away their time in criminal indulgences, and "lose their own souls" by a
+guilty procrastination. To persons of this class, Solomon suggests a most
+important truth, in the form of a sarcastic appeal--"Rejoice, O young man
+in thy youth, and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth; and
+walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes; but know
+thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment."</p>
+
+<p>There are also young persons of another description, who, though partially
+influenced by such motives, possess upon the whole a different character.
+Their inconsistencies, although highly detrimental, result rather from
+temporary illusion than from radical depravity. The passions which through
+grace are habitually subjugated to the yoke of reason and religion,
+acquire, on some occasions, a momentary ascendency; and, as the apostle
+describes it, "they do" that which they "allow not," and that which they
+"would," they "do not." They are, for a time, inveigled by their
+senses--their eyes are dazzled, and their minds perverted. Their mistakes
+both of judgment and of feeling, connect themselves, perhaps, with a long
+series of disasters, neither to be foreseen nor prevented. Sometimes the
+individual himself does not discover his error for a lapse of years;
+continuing under the deception, till the course of providential events
+awakens him from the dream of enjoyment, and successive afflictions
+restore him to his "right mind."</p>
+
+<p>If at that unhappy moment, when Lot, regarding temporal advantages only,
+and forgetting his religious dangers, "lifted up his eyes and beheld all
+the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the Lord
+destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the Lord, like the
+land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar"--if he could have anticipated the
+melancholy consequences of one false step, surely he would not have chosen
+the plain of Jordan for a residence, or pitched his tent towards the city
+of Sodom! Infinitely better had it been for him to have accompanied
+Abraham to Mamre, or even to have lived in a retired and desolate
+wilderness.</p>
+
+<p>The most exalted piety does not necessarily exempt the individual who
+possesses it from the trials of life; but it prepares the mind for
+enduring and improving them. In some instances, it obviates those external
+calamities which befall an ungodly world, supplying the means of escaping
+from many of the punishments and penalties which the wicked suffer; but,
+in all cases, it prevents that anguish which arises from the secret
+conviction, that the afflictions of life are the consequences of personal
+guilt and misconduct--sent, it is true, for their ultimate benefit; but
+sent in judgment, and expressive of displeasure. Sin is always pernicious.
+It not only involves the impenitent in present sufferings and future wo,
+but inflicts even on the people of God, in proportion to the degree in
+which it prevails, embarrassments and calamities.</p>
+
+<p>If we direct our course by mere worldly considerations, however fair the
+prospect may seem, the luxuriant plain is likely to become overspread with
+confusion, and deluged with misery. In consequence of the fatal choice of
+Lot, he soon became a captive, then a fugitive. He lost his liberty, his
+peace, his possessions, and finally his dearest connexion in life, by one
+of those awful dispensations in which the hand of God is so visible, the
+punishment of sin so striking, and the lessons of divine justice so
+terrible. We are admonished to "remember Lot's wife;" and truly, her
+<i>advantages</i>, her <i>deliverance</i>, her <i>guilt</i>, and her <i>doom</i>, furnish so
+many subjects of instructive reflection.</p>
+
+<p>The ADVANTAGES of Lot's wife were considerable. She was the nearest
+connection of a "just or pious man;" who though he dwelt in Sodom, the
+very rendezvous of all the vices, "vexed his righteous soul from day to
+day," with the "unlawful deeds," and "filthy conversation" of its wicked
+inhabitants.</p>
+
+<p>Obvious and lamentable as were the defects in the character of Lot, it
+must, nevertheless, be admitted that he was a man of eminent piety--a
+piety the more conspicuous, from the circumstances in which he was placed.
+His fellow citizens were inexpressibly depraved; so much so, that in all
+the annals of sacred and profane history, we find no parallel example.
+Sodom was, in fact, one mass of pollution. High and low, rich and poor,
+seem to have been infected with moral contamination; and every day their
+excessive immoralities dared the vengeance of Heaven. Lot stood alone and
+unsupported, struggling against the torrent of iniquity that flowed down
+every street, and inundated with its filthiness the adjacent cities of
+the plain.</p>
+
+<p>Society animates the desponding spirit amidst discouragements. It inspires
+diligence, quickens zeal, and strengthens against resistance. The example
+of the multitude often operates with pernicious influence in situations
+where the pious experience considerable co-operation; and considering the
+weakness of human nature, the force of temptation, the numerous instances
+of defection which occur even within the pale of the Christian church,
+continuance in well doing is a just cause of congratulation under any
+circumstances. But that this holy man should have remained steadfast and
+immoveable amidst the abominations of Sodom, is a proof of the confirmed
+stability and superior excellence of his religion. Neither promises nor
+threatenings, neither ridicule nor flattery could divert him from his
+course. He was neither to be cajoled nor coerced; but set his face like a
+flint, and pursued the narrow path of obedience to God with undeviating
+perseverance. Piety had, in fact, exalted him to a higher sphere, and,
+like the sun, that pursues his circuit alike through the calm or the
+stormy day, the obstructions which impiety seemed to throw in his path,
+proved nothing but cloud and vapour before his resistless progress.</p>
+
+<p>It must have been a singular privilege to have sustained the intimate
+relationship of a <i>wife</i> to one so excellent, and at a period, not only
+when immorality had acquired such an odious ascendency in the particular
+place of their residence, but when there was little religion in the world.
+His favoured partner had every opportunity of knowing his views upon the
+most important religious topics, and especially of being informed or
+reminded of the great designs of eternal Providence respecting the future
+mission of our Saviour; to which bright consummation of human happiness
+the saints of God, in the remotest ages, look forward with confident
+anticipation.</p>
+
+<p>She had, besides, the best means of observing the influence of true
+religion upon the character. She saw him in every position, and witnessed
+his conduct every day. If she were no stranger to many of his
+imperfections, and these attach more or less to every one in the present
+state, she could not fail of perceiving a mighty contrast between his
+general deportment and spirit, and that of the guilty inhabitants of
+Sodom. He was not only unseduced by their example, but detested their
+practices; and bore a decided, if it were an unavailing, testimony against
+them. She must have seen that his passions were under the regulation of
+principles to which <i>they</i> were perfect strangers; and that his whole
+character was cast in a different mould. His fellow-citizens, indeed,
+possessed the advantage of his public example and judicious reproofs,
+although they were too base to receive any impression; but <i>she</i> saw him
+at home, and had the privilege of domestic intercourse. There he presented
+his private and frequent devotions--there, no doubt, he erected the family
+altar, and day by day offered the solemn sacrifices of prayer and praise.
+Upon that house the eye of God was fixed, and there his blessing
+descended. One voice in Sodom, discordant to the universal chorus of
+imprecation and blasphemy was harmonious in the ear of Heaven--one
+hallowed flame ascended amidst the fires of lust--one drop of purity
+mingled with an ocean of wickedness!</p>
+
+<p>Whether the wife of Lot were benefited by his example, or properly
+observant of his actions, or whether she were infected by the general
+contagion, it is not possible to ascertain with certainty: her subsequent
+conduct renders us suspicious of her having been, if not a practitioner of
+atrocious crimes, at least in love with the world, and destitute of
+real religion.</p>
+
+<p>Some of the best of men have suffered this severe affliction. The chosen
+companions of their pilgrimage have been strangers to their religious
+feelings, and could cherish no kindred sympathies. Instead of proving
+help meets, they have been hinderances; instead of assisting, they have
+retarded their journey. In some cases, this must be imputed to themselves,
+as their <i>own fault</i>. They have been misled by their passions; and, in
+consequence of "entering into temptation," they have plunged themselves
+into inevitable wretchedness. This is a sin which, we should hope, is not
+often committed; and, as a means of prevention, we would enforce a
+contrary conduct by all the authority which can attach to the language of
+an inspired adviser. Paul exhorts us to marry "only in the Lord;" and he
+sustains his admonitions by irresistible argument: "Be ye not unequally
+yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness
+with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and
+what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth
+with an infidel?"</p>
+
+<p>There is one case, in which we must rather pity than censure this
+incongruous association. Previous to that essential change of character
+which is introductory to the kingdom of heaven, and which the New
+Testament represents as being "brought out of darkness into marvellous
+light," the woman and the man have, perhaps, become "equally yoked" in
+unbelief. At the period of their early matrimonial connection, no
+dissimilarity in point of religious principle existed. Both were "lovers
+of pleasure more than lovers of God;" and unhappily, neither of them felt
+the importance of securing permanent and solid enjoyment, by constructing
+it on the basis of genuine religion. Resembling others in the same period
+of youth and illusion, they embarked on the smooth and inviting surface,
+unaware of what storms awaited them, or what dangers lurked in the
+perilous sea of life. It was, morning--the scene was new--the prospect
+gay--and their fair horizon seemed to encircle an earthly paradise! They
+knew not it was a <i>painted</i> landscape, and that "pure and undefiled
+religion" alone could effectually prepare them for the disappointment.</p>
+
+<p>Since that period, one of this happy pair has become "a follower of God,"
+the other remains "a servant of sin"--the one has discovered the paramount
+importance of the interest of eternity, the other has not yet learned the
+necessity of salvation, or the value of the soul. Now is fulfilled the
+prediction of Christ, "I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am
+come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against
+her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man's
+foes shall be those of <i>his own household</i>."</p>
+
+<p>Let those who are thus united together by the conjugal tie, although
+dissimilar in character, be excited to a consideration of their respective
+duties. The religious party should pursue a system of conciliation and
+kindness, as best calculated to exemplify the excellence of religion, and
+<i>win</i> the disobedient yoke-fellow; and the irreligious husband or wife
+should study the virtuous peculiarities, and worthy example, of the pious
+partner: the one being anxious to exhibit the genuine effect of
+religion--the other to examine with impartiality, and an unprejudiced
+attention, the operation of grace.</p>
+
+<p>Another circumstance to which our attention is directed, in the history of
+Lot's wife, is her DELIVERANCE from the miraculous conflagration of Sodom.
+The angelic messengers who were sent to Lot, conducted him and his family
+from the scene of danger. They first distinctly predicted the destruction
+of the city, on account of its extreme iniquity, and intimated that they
+were commissioned to execute this awful purpose of eternal justice. They
+then inquired about his relations, commanding him to bring them out of the
+place; but, with a spirit of infatuation too common to the impenitent, the
+earnest solicitations of Lot were utterly rejected, and even ridiculed.
+"Up," said he, "get you out of this place, for the Lord will destroy this
+city! But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons-in-law."</p>
+
+<p>On the ensuing morning, at a very early hour, the two commissioned angels
+urged Lot to use all possible despatch in his departure, and to take with
+him his wife and daughters. The predestined moment was at hand; the
+windows of heaven were opening, and the burning tempest ready to descend.
+"And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand
+of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the Lord being
+merciful unto him; and they brought him forth, and set him without the
+city. And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that
+he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in
+all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed."</p>
+
+<p>This narrative intimates with sufficient plainness that Lot's wife and
+daughters were spared for <i>his sake</i>; and that it was nothing but the
+impenitent obstinacy of his other family connexions, that prevented their
+escape. They would not listen, even though he "lingered," probably, to
+persuade them to accompany his flight; they must, therefore, perish. It
+appears that his wife and daughters also were reluctant, as the angels
+were obliged to take them each by the hand, and conduct them into the
+plain; but, <i>for the sake of Lot</i>, they were happily compelled to flee. If
+this woman had not been the wife, and these the daughters of a <i>good man</i>,
+they would have shared the tremendous fate of the other inhabitants of
+the city; their near connection with him, unquestionably saved their
+otherwise unprotected lives.</p>
+
+<p>Humiliating as the sentiment may be to the enemies of religion, it is
+clearly deducible from this affecting narrative, and strikingly confirmed
+by other scriptural accounts, that righteous persons are the salt of the
+earth; the means, not only of preserving it from becoming an entire mass
+of corruption, but of averting the judgments of Heaven from others; and
+especially of preserving those from awful calamity, who are more
+immediately connected with them by the ties of consanguinity or
+friendship.</p>
+
+<p>The escape of Lot's wife and daughters, on this disastrous occasion, was
+an illustration of the promise which had but a short time before been made
+to Abraham, when he was permitted to commune with Jehovah respecting the
+destruction of this city. Having been informed of the divine
+determinations, Abraham, deeply affected with the condition of his wicked
+neighbours, but feeling a peculiar concern for his nephew, drew near with
+holy boldness to inquire whether the righteous and the wicked were to be
+involved in the same common catastrophe; and whether, if fifty righteous
+persons could be found, the city might not be spared? To this he obtained
+full consent: upon which he ventured to limit the pious number, for whose
+sake all the inhabitants should be spared, to forty-five--then to
+forty--to thirty--to twenty--and to ten; "And the Lord said, I will not
+destroy it for ten's sake."</p>
+
+<p>Here it is observable, that the patriarch did not request the preservation
+of the wicked for <i>their own sake</i>, or because of any supposed severity in
+the predicted punishment, but solely for the sake of the <i>righteous</i> who
+might be discovered in the place. Value your connexion, then, with the
+people of God. To be born of pious parents, or to be situated amidst
+religious advantages, is an unspeakable favour. The church of Christ,
+especially, is a privileged spot--there celestial mercy takes her
+favourite walks--thither she conveys her choicest blessings--and to that
+sacred enclosure from the world, she extends her most powerful protection.
+How many families, besides the house of Obed-edom, have been blessed
+"because of the ark of God!"</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1897.] The inspired history, in the next
+place, particularly points out the GUILT of Lot's wife. As soon as this
+favoured family had reached the suburbs, and at a moment when the rising
+sun shed his unclouded radiance over the devoted scene, and, consequently,
+indicated no approaching storm, the mighty tragedy commenced. Down came
+the burning sulphureous deluge upon Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim;
+which, mingling with the bituminous soil of the valley, and blazing with
+inconceivable intensity, spread sudden, awful, and universal desolation.
+From this horrible moment, the site of these ancient cities became
+converted into a lake, which, from its bituminous quality, is termed the
+lake <i>Asphaltites</i>, and sometimes the <i>Dead Sea</i>, from the idea that no
+creature can exist in its waters. [<a href="#foot11">11</a>]</p>
+
+<p>During this miraculous tempest, the wife of Lot, who was now flying to
+Zoar, "LOOKED BACK FROM BEHIND HIM;" and in consequence, suffered an
+instantaneous judgment, which we shall presently have occasion to notice.</p>
+
+<p>And was this the whole amount of her criminality? Was it a mere glance of
+the eye, for which she is become an object of execration, and a warning to
+all ages? Was this the single action for which she suffered?--Have we not
+been led to suppose, that apostacy is rather a <i>course of conduct</i>, than
+the perpetration of any particular crime, however atrocious? And yet does
+not the wife of Lot appear to have been punished as an apostate?</p>
+
+<p>Beware of forming a hasty judgment, and recollect that, in some cases, a
+single action is an infallible criterion of a most impious character. It
+is the <i>last in a series of crimes</i>, although, perhaps, the only
+<i>discovered</i> iniquity. The rest have been concealed by circumstances, or
+by artifice; and, like the apex and point of a rock piercing the surface
+of the deep, which indicates its immense magnitude and elevation above the
+bottom of the ocean, <i>one</i> considerable act of baseness indicates the real
+existence of an immense accumulation of secret iniquity. Such was the
+character of <i>Judas,</i> and probably of <i>Lot's wife</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The recorded action in question indicated, in fact, a very complicated
+crime. It was a direct disobedience to an express and solemn command; and
+whether the command respected a mere look, or a mighty undertaking, the
+<i>principle</i> which influenced the conduct, was equally censurable. We must
+abstain from <i>whatever</i> is interdicted, whether it respect the tasting of
+fruit, as in the case of Eve, or the looking back to relinquished
+possessions, as in the example of Lot's wife. Unbelief was also a probable
+concomitant in this transgression. She might doubt the reality of the
+threatened destruction, or be influenced by a spirit of unhallowed
+curiosity: or, if she heard the descending tempest, some dread of being
+overtaken by it might induce her to look back. But, above all, our Lord,
+in commenting upon her conduct, intimates that her <i>heart</i> lingered after
+the possessions she had left, and her look implied a <i>wish</i> to return to
+their enjoyment.</p>
+
+<p>The case of this woman is peculiarly affecting, from other considerations.
+It has been already stated, she had peculiar advantages, being the wife of
+a righteous man--she had thus far escaped the pollutions of Sodom, and
+avoided its destiny--she had obeyed the voice of the celestial messenger,
+and was led forth under a heavenly ministration--she was in the company of
+the pious--participated the deliverance of her husband, and was on the
+point of having completely escaped--Sodom was left behind--Zoar was at
+hand--the raging storm was desolating the devoted cities, while the bright
+sun of the morning lighted the fugitives on their way. Before, all was
+smiling! Behind, all was tempestuous!--Salvation, if they persevered!
+Perdition, if they retreated or looked back!--It is written in the book of
+God--may it be written indelibly on every heart--"If any man draw back, my
+soul shall have no pleasure in him."</p>
+
+<p>It will conduce to the purposes of instruction, if we generalize this
+subject, by briefly stating a few of the most usual causes of apostacy
+from God; some of which are strictly applicable to the history of
+Lot's wife.</p>
+
+<p>Sometimes it originates in <i>fear</i>; and though every period could furnish
+instances, we must expect to find them principally in times of
+persecution. Many, under the awful apprehension of excruciating torments,
+and some even from very inferior reasons of alarm, have signed their
+recantation of principles which they had long professed to venerate; but
+few have imitated the noble heroism of a CRANMER, who publicly denounced
+his own recantation, and resolutely thrust the hand that signed it first
+into the fire, on the day of his martyrdom, calling it, "this unworthy
+right hand!"</p>
+
+<p>But in all ages a <i>love of the world</i> may be justly considered as a much
+more prevalent occasion of apostacy than fear. Demas, and the wife of Lot,
+live again in a thousand wretched examples. It may be acknowledged
+difficult to point out in all cases with perfect exactitude, the precise
+line of demarkation between a proper and an inordinate pursuit of worldly
+good, and thus to detect the first commencement of an avaricious temper,
+the embryo germ of an apostate disposition; but at least no difficulty
+should remain with <i>the individual himself</i> in deciding upon his own
+actual state, even though he be not guilty of flagrant immoralities, if
+conscious that his heart is in his covetousness--if the love of gain have
+usurped the dominion of his soul, and dethroned the love of God--if he
+gladly embrace every opportunity of promoting his worldly interest, and
+obey but slowly and reluctantly the calls of duty. Let him apprehend that
+he is drifting along to ruin--let him fear, and fear justly, that the
+pleasant gale of success to which he has expanded all his powers, is only
+bearing him upon the rocks of eternal destruction. Be not deceived, though
+they appear covered with flowers of surpassing beauty, and exquisite
+fragrance. "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.
+If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him."</p>
+
+<p><i>Levity of mind</i> is a frequent occasion of apostacy. It predisposes the
+unhappy individual to the ruinous influence of vicious society and
+injurious publications. These, most fatally adapted to their purpose, soon
+induce the unwary to neglect, and finally to despise all religious
+institutions. The apostle Paul intimates that some are "tossed to and fro,
+and carried about with every wind of doctrine," like clouds which,
+possessing no solidity, are driven in every direction through the
+atmosphere. Persons of this description are easily persuaded by a
+plausible reasoner, that his opinions are true, and with equal facility
+submit to the next artful sophist, who avows even contrary sentiments. The
+natural effect of this inconstancy will be, a disregard of ALL truth, and
+a ready admission of every sceptical principle. When the mind is in such a
+state of fluctuation and uncertainty, or rather the willing slave of every
+tyrant, it is well prepared for vice: it will admit a criminal thought, as
+well as a sentimental error, and the same plausibility which could
+successfully insinuate a sceptical principle, can excite to an immoral
+practice. In the circles of gay dissipation, every remaining scruple is
+easily dissipated; the poison of "evil communications" is voraciously
+swallowed, and "good morals are corrupted."</p>
+
+<p>Such a disposition is closely allied to <i>pride,</i> which often "goes
+before, destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Praised by their
+companions as persons of distinguished genius, or admired for a natural
+wit, they sacrifice every thing to flattery. They have been stimulated to
+believe that the possession of religion is a decisive proof of
+intellectual inferiority; or at least, that a punctilious observance of
+its practices, or a fervent attachment to its peculiar doctrines, is
+enthusiastic. They listen to the artful seducer, who assures them that
+their principles are too evidently drawn from the lessons of the nursery,
+and that it is time to shake off--their own penetration, indeed, will lead
+them to discard--the mere prejudices of an illiberal education. It is not
+improbable they may meet with some advocate of deistical principles or
+libertine conduct, who zealously instils into them the maxim of the
+well-known Earl of Shaftesbury, that "whoever is searching for truth,
+should examine if they cannot find out something that may be justly
+laughed at;" and if they can be persuaded as he was, "not to think on the
+subject of religion, without endeavouring to put himself in as good a
+humour as possible," it is not unlikely they may adopt what he calls a
+<i>natural suspicion</i>, that "the holy records themselves were no other than
+the pure invention and artificial compliment of an interested party, in
+behalf of the richest corporation and most profitable monopoly which could
+be erected in the world."</p>
+
+<p>In the scriptural statement of the fall of man, it appears that pride and
+sensuality were the first dispositions which polluted the human mind in
+paradise, and their contaminating influence has descended upon the whole
+human race. From these two springs the torrent of corruption originated,
+and has never ceased to pursue its course and widen its channel through
+the successive ages of time. "When the woman saw that the tree was good
+for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired
+to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat; and gave
+also unto her husband with her, and he did eat."</p>
+
+<p>The DOOM of Lot's wife is one of the most memorable in the records of
+either profane or sacred history. It is said, that "she became a pillar of
+salt," or a nitro-sulphureous pillar; the singularity and severity of her
+punishment being thus proportioned to the atrocity of her crime. When we
+recollect that Jehovah afterward proclaimed himself to Moses as "the Lord,
+the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in
+goodness and truth; keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity, and
+transgression, and sin;" that he is frequently celebrated by the inspired
+writers, as "ready to pardon, slow to anger, of great kindness, plenteous
+in mercy, full of compassion;" that he is represented by the apostle John
+as "love" itself; and that infinite benignity is essential to his nature,
+and characteristic of his dispensations--we cannot but tremble at the
+sight of such a visitation.</p>
+
+<p>Inexpressibly awful as the overthrow of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim
+appears, there is an additional feature of horror in the destruction of
+this woman. Our imagination is bewildered amidst the general ruin of
+multitudes; while, by the contemplation of an individual instance,
+appointed to a separate and peculiar punishment, we become excited to
+deeper feeling. From the very constitution of our nature, we view the doom
+of numbers with a diminished impression; we have not time to select and
+meditate upon the peculiarities of individual agonies, and regard them
+only in one vast heterogeneous mass, consigned to one common portion of
+suffering: but the emotion is widely different, and incalculably more
+poignant, when a solitary example is presented to us, alike distinguished
+for guilt and for punishment. In the present case, too, the degree of
+sensibility excited into action is necessarily more acute, from the very
+circumstance forbidding us to pity, and demanding an unmingled
+overwhelming sense of omnipotent justice. Nor is this a censurable, but a
+necessary feeling, indicative of a proper coincidence of mind with the
+perfect will of Heaven: it is allied to the sentiments attributed to purer
+spirits, who, when they witness the seven angels distributing the seven
+last plagues in which is filled up the wrath of God, are represented as
+standing on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.--"And they sing the
+song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, great
+and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy
+ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify
+thy name? for thou only art holy, for all nations shall come and worship
+before thee: for thy JUDGMENTS are made manifest." In the same spirit, the
+heavens, the holy apostles and prophets, are called upon to rejoice over
+Babylon in the hour of her destruction; and a great voice of much people
+is heard in heaven, saying, "Alleluia; salvation and glory, and honour,
+and power, unto the Lord our God; for true and righteous are his
+JUDGMENTS." "And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever
+and ever."</p>
+
+<p>The justice of God displayed even in the awful form which it assumes in
+the punishment of the wife of Lot, is, in fact, only a modification of
+goodness, and therefore a proper reason both for angelic and human
+celebration. The love of order is no less essential to a holy being than
+the love of mercy; and therefore it is compatible with the most perfect
+goodness, in its association with justice, to punish transgressors either
+on their own account or for the sake of others--either for the purpose of
+individual correction or of general warning. It would be a far less
+display of goodness to suffer men to persevere in sin without any
+control, than to arrest them by some powerful stroke. In the former case,
+they not only plunge into ruin themselves, but draw others, by their fatal
+and malignant attraction, into perdition: in the latter, a salutary
+precaution is given to such as lie within the reach of their mischievous
+influence. Whatever has a tendency to prevent sin is a benevolent exercise
+of power; because sin is the source of individual and universal misery: if
+it had never entered into this world, man would still have been happy; and
+when, in the merciful appointments of Heaven, the guilt which now stains
+the moral creation shall be purified away by the efficacy of the blood of
+Christ, paradise will be restored, and the long-renowned tabernacle of God
+again descend to be with men. To this glorious consummation of human
+felicity, all the dispensations of Providence point; and to produce it,
+all his judgments are inflicted: the promises and the threatenings have
+each a similar design, and will ultimately promote the same general
+object. The tempest and the tornado have their peculiar uses, as well as
+the small rain that descends upon the tender herb. "Mercy and truth meet
+together--righteousness and peace kiss each other."</p>
+
+<p>In turning our eyes, then, towards the plain of Sodom, we must combine a
+sentiment of holy reverence with trembling horror. The destiny of the
+atrocious sinner was intended to produce salutary apprehensions in her
+surviving relatives, and in all her posterity. Upon that accursed plain
+Eternal Justice erected a monument of infinite displeasure; but the hand
+which raised the pillar of salt, at the same time inscribed upon it, in
+characters too large and legible to be mistaken, "FEAR GOD, AND KEEP HIS
+COMMANDMENTS."</p>
+
+<p>The terrific nature of this judgment was enhanced by the <i>instantaneous</i>
+manner in which it occurred. No sooner did the wife of Lot look back, than
+she was converted into a pillar of salt, [<a href="#foot12">12</a>]--<i>this moment</i> in the midst
+of life, and apparently escaping from the scene of danger--<i>the next</i>, a
+monument of wrath! What a transition from happiness to misery! What a
+descent from the summit of hope to the depths of despair! Mercy had almost
+conducted her to Zoar--Guilt transported her to the abyss of wo! She had
+even tasted the cup of blessing; but, dashing it from her lips in the
+spirit of daring rebellion, she was made to drink "the wine-cup of fury."</p>
+
+<p>It elucidates the divine condescension and forbearance, when the wicked,
+instead of being withered at a touch, are allowed time for reflection.--
+The ordinary dispensations of Providence are characterized by a merciful
+tardiness: the daring transgressor is addressed by reiterated appeals,
+and perhaps placed under a course of moral discipline: he is not smit by
+the thunder, or blasted by the lightning; but a series of smaller
+precursory punishments precedes a great catastrophe: his way is hedged up;
+reproofs, remonstrances, losses, afflictions, bereavements, constitute so
+many obstructions thrown across the path to perdition; and if he perish,
+it is necessary to force his way through them with a daring and infatuated
+heroism: voices from heaven and earth precede the infliction of merited
+vengeance, saying with loud and harmonious exclamations, "Let the wicked
+forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return
+unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he
+will abundantly pardon."</p>
+
+<p>But in the present melancholy instance, the wife of Lot was cut off as in
+a moment: she was ripe for the sickle, and justice delayed not to gather
+her into the storehouse of wrath; she cumbered the ground by her
+impieties, and was worthy of no additional cultivation. Here we behold an
+awful specimen of the obstinacy of sinners, the effect of disobedience,
+and the determination of God, in a visible and striking manner, to
+vindicate his holy name.</p>
+
+<p>Reader! flatter not yourself that the circumstance of having hitherto
+escaped remarkable judgment is any real indemnification against future
+punishment: do not imagine that the supreme God is unobservant, because he
+is not vindictive; that it is possible to elude his eye, because you have
+not yet been slain by his sword. The delay, which is intended as a
+benefit, may, and often does, by perversion, aggravate the sinner's doom:
+and indeed it is one of the most lamentable proofs of human degeneracy,
+that the very circumstance in which the goodness of God is singularly
+apparent, and which ought to lead to repentance, is made the occasion of
+more atrocious crime and more resolute perseverance.</p>
+
+<p>But delay is no evidence of indifference; and if justice have hitherto
+slept, it is to be apprehended it will rise with recruited vigour. While
+you go on still in your trespasses, be assured the glittering sword is
+drawing from its scabbard--it is even whetting to the final stroke!</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="05"></a>Rebekah.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter V.</h3>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="05-1"></a>Section I.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Progress of Time--Patriarchal mode of Living--Abraham's Solicitude
+  respecting the Settlement of his Son--sends his Servant to procure him a
+  Wife--his Arrival in the Vicinity of Nahor--his Meeting with
+  Rebekah--her Behaviour, and their Conversation--the Good Qualities
+  already discoverable in Rebekah, which render her Worthy of
+  Imitation--her industrious and domesticated Habits--Unaffected
+  Simplicity--Modesty--Courtesy--Humanity.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>Rapid, irresistible, and certain is the progress of time. The few
+incidents of which human life consists, transpire in quick succession; the
+few years of which it is composed, even in cases of the greatest
+longevity, soon elapse: the cradle and the grave seem placed very near
+each other; and scarcely does the voice of congratulation cease at our
+birth, before it is succeeded by the lamentations of sorrow at
+our funeral.</p>
+
+<p>There is a wide difference, however, in the actual impression, between
+passing through the details of existence in daily and hourly engagements,
+which, from their variety, produce an illusion of slowness and a vague
+idea of almost interminable continuance, and looking at expended years
+<i>after their termination</i>, or at successive lives in the perspective of
+history. In the latter case, events appear crowded together, the
+intervening spaces are riot distinctly perceptible, and the distance is
+diminished. If the life of an Abraham, an Isaac, or a Jacob, had been
+presented to us in the form of a daily journal of occurrences, how easily
+might it have been expanded into a volume equal in dimensions to the whole
+inspired record; and how distant would each eventful period of their
+respective lives have appeared! how vast would have seemed the space
+between them if minuter circumstances had been formally detailed in the
+order of months, and days, and hours! Even a single year assumes a
+considerable magnitude when viewed as three hundred and sixty-five days,
+each day and night as four-and-twenty hours, each hour as sixty successive
+minutes, and each minute or hour as occupied with its appropriate and
+necessary engagements: but when we ascend that elevated spot to which
+history conducts us, and look back upon the long track of time, and
+through the course of revolving centuries, we reflect at once on those
+images of Scripture with which our imagination has been so often arrested,
+and see that the motion of the "weaver's shuttle" scarcely represents the
+"swiftness" of our days; the passing shadows that fly across the plain,
+imperfectly display the nothingness of fleeting years; "the little time"
+in which the "vapour appeareth," is but faintly expressive of the manner
+in which life "vanisheth away." It is almost impossible to observe the
+small number of pages which relate all that is really worth recording, of
+hundreds and even thousands of years, without being deeply affected. A few
+chapters suffice to state the principal circumstances relating to the
+creation, destruction, and renewal of the world; and a single book
+contains, in addition to this information, the lives of patriarchs the
+most distinguished, and the account of ages the most eventful and
+extraordinary. Solemn consideration--"one generation passeth away, and
+another cometh!"</p>
+
+<p>We have been led into these reflections chiefly by observing how rapidly
+the inspired writer passes from one event to another in the life of
+Abraham, though many years intervened; and especially by noticing the
+<i>immediate</i> connexion in which the death and burial of Sarah are placed
+with the marriage of Isaac: so nearly allied, so few are the intermediate
+steps between the most joyful and the most painful events of human
+existence! A marriage to-day--a funeral to-morrow! This hour
+congratulated--the next lamented! "Great and marvellous are thy works, O
+Lord God Almighty: just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints."</p>
+
+<p>The family histories of the patriarchs are rendered peculiarly attractive
+by the simplicity of their manners, and their pastoral mode of living. We
+are transported into ages, around which antiquity throws a powerful charm,
+and revelation an extraordinary lustre. What are scenes of blood, and
+acclamations of triumph, in comparison with the private history of a man
+of peace, and a man of piety? what are heroic deeds to virtuous
+achievements? and what the most splendid page of secular history to the
+beautiful and interesting account of the various transactions relating to
+the union of Isaac and Rebekah?</p>
+
+<p>These are so intimately blended together, that the present chapter must
+embrace at least a brief notice of them, in order to form an adequate idea
+of the heroine of this inimitable Scripture narrative.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1856]</p>
+
+<p>Abraham had now attained the venerable age of one hundred and forty years;
+his beloved Sarah was no more; and after weeping over her grave, and
+negociating for the entire possession of the field of Ephron in Machpelah,
+where she was interred, as a family burying-place, his thoughts were
+forcibly attracted towards the day of his own dissolution. "The Lord had
+blessed him in all things," but his affections were detached from earthly
+possessions, and permanently fixed upon his unchangeable inheritance in
+the skies. He "desired a better country, that is, a heavenly; wherefore
+God was not ashamed to be called his God, for he had prepared for him
+a city."</p>
+
+<p>Previous to his departure, Abraham felt solicitous respecting the
+adjustment of his temporal affairs, and particularly the settlement and
+marriage of his beloved son. Actuated not merely by the common anxiety of
+a parent, who knows that the credit and happiness of his family depend on
+the propriety of the connection which he may form; but contemplating with
+the eye of faith his future posterity, the patriarch called his eldest and
+confidential servant. This was Eliezer of Damascus, the steward of his
+house; and, in case of his death, the manager of his affairs. He was,
+unquestionably, under that divine direction, which in this as in every
+other concern of life, he anxiously sought. It is pleasing to witness the
+result which was so evidently connected with the prudence and piety of his
+proceedings, and which points us to the never-failing promise, "In all thy
+ways acknowledge him, and lie shall direct thy paths," Isaac is not,
+indeed, distinctly mentioned, but he was no stranger to prayer; and
+having attained his fortieth year, he had doubtless felt a laudable
+anxiety to enter into the honourable state of matrimony, expressed his
+desires to God, and after concerting the proper measures with his father,
+patiently waited the will of Providence.</p>
+
+<p>Abraham explained his views to Eliezer, and exacted a solemn oath
+respecting the punctual fulfilment of his commission, in which some of the
+characteristic principles of this illustrious saint were conspicuous. In
+the selection of a wife for his son, he seems uninfluenced by worldly
+policy. He wishes him to connect him with virtue rather than wealth;
+knowing that the latter is not only uncertain, but unnecessary to the
+purposes of real happiness.</p>
+
+<p>It has been often said, there are "few happy matches;" but the cause of
+this fact is seldom traced or regarded. If our calculations be founded
+solely upon a reference to temporal interests, if the importance of a
+connexion be measured merely by the probable amount of gold it may
+produce, or the degree of worldly influence it is likely to confer, we may
+add another item to the sum of probabilities--that of <i>disappointment</i>.
+The inconsistencies into which this strange match-making infatuation has
+betrayed some of the greatest and best of men, is truly deplorable; and if
+it do not incur immediate calamity, it certainly excites the divine
+displeasure. God requires to be honoured in this, no less than in every
+other transaction.</p>
+
+<p>Abraham also evinced his characteristic aversion of idolatry. He desired
+his servant not to seek a wife for Isaac in Chaldea, but to proceed to
+Haran in Mesopotamia, to the house of Nahor his brother. He was particular
+in requiring him to swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of
+the earth, that he would not take his son a wife of the daughters of the
+Canaanites, among whom he resided. The danger of his posterity becoming
+blended with idolaters, and contracting their habits, induced him to use
+this solemn precaution; although his faith realized the peopling of this
+country, by his descendants. His servant put his hand upon his thigh, in
+confirmation of the agreement, [<a href="#foot13">13</a>] and immediately prepared for his
+journey. The distance from Hebron, the present residence of Abraham, to
+Haran, was about seventeen days' journey; and the servant must have
+travelled about four hundred and sixty miles.</p>
+
+<p>Servants may learn, from this example, the kind of conduct which adorns
+their station. They should be punctual in the discharge of their duties,
+and readily comply with the directions they receive. Eliezer felt himself
+bound to comply with his master's injunctions, and not only proceeded on
+his distant expedition without reluctance and murmuring, but with that
+despatch which proves his whole heart was engaged in his duty. If any
+should plead, that it was, no doubt, a privilege to have such a master,
+and any one would have been happy in such a situation, let them be
+reminded that this is a very questionable position; for it is common for
+servants to disregard the authority, or undervalue the character of the
+best masters and mistresses; but their duty is not to be measured by the
+virtue or even the kindness, of their domestic superiors, the apostle
+expressly ordaining obedience "not only to the good and gentle, but also
+to the froward."</p>
+
+<p>Upon Eliezer's arrival in the vicinity of the city of Nahor, he made his
+camels kneel down by a well, intending to supply them as soon as possible
+with water. The whole retinue was, no doubt, sufficiently weary with the
+journey. It was evening, and about the customary hour when the women of
+the country came out to fetch a supply of water. This faithful and pious
+servant was aware of this circumstance, but, previous to the arrival of
+any of these strangers, he betook himself to solemn and effectual prayer.
+His words are remarkable: "O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee
+send me good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham.
+Behold, I stand here by the well of water, and the daughters of the men of
+the city come out to draw water: and let it come to pass, that the damsel
+to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher I pray thee, that I may drink;
+and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also; let the
+same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby
+shall I know that thou hast showed kindness unto my master!"</p>
+
+<p>While the words of supplication were still upon the tongue of this worthy
+servant, behold a damsel of singular beauty approaches the well! It is, in
+fact, Rebekah, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor;
+and whom an invisible but all-wise Providence had sent at this precise
+moment, and by this happy concurrence of circumstances, introduced to the
+travelling stranger. Beautiful, young, and artless; bearing a pitcher upon
+her shoulder, which she hastened to the well to fill for the necessary
+supply of the family; we cannot imagine a more finished picture of
+loveliness, or one to which the Miltonian description of Eve, as first
+beheld by her admiring partner, is more justly applicable:</p>
+
+<blockquote>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Adorn'd<br />
+With what all earth or heaven could bestow<br />
+To make her amiable; on she came<br />
+Led by her heav'nly Maker, though unseen.</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>"Grace was in all her steps, heav'n in her eye,<br />
+In every gesture, dignity and love."</blockquote>
+
+<p>She speedily descended to the reservoir of water, and filled her pitcher.
+[<a href="#foot14">14</a>] The servant was attracted by her remarkable appearance, for she
+seemed "like the lily among thorns;" but, at present, remained silent.
+Intent upon her proper business, she did not indulge an idle curiosity,
+and waste her time, by stopping to make inquiries respecting the stranger,
+and his train of camels, which were reclining near the well; nor would she
+have been detained a moment, had not a motive of kindness prompted her to
+listen to his solicitations for help. He, at length, hastened to meet her,
+and requested to drink a little of the water with which she had just
+replenished her pitcher. This was granted with the utmost readiness; she
+let down the vessel from her shoulder, and desired him to take whatever he
+pleased. After this, she kindly offered to supply all his train of camels;
+and, regardless of the trouble which such officious hospitality
+occasioned, she did not even wait for a reply, but ran to fill the trough,
+by repeated draughts of water.</p>
+
+<p>All this time, the man, who, by the way might have rendered this lovely
+young woman some assistance, stood gazing in silent astonishment. There
+was so striking a coincidence between her conduct, and the wishes he had
+been expressing, that he could not help connecting them together.
+"Wondering at her, he held his peace, to wit whether the Lord had made his
+journey prosperous or not." It seems strange that he should have felt even
+a momentary hesitation upon the subject, but it exemplifies the frequent
+state of our minds respecting anticipated blessings. We seek them with an
+importunity which procures their communication, but, when actually
+bestowed, we scarcely believe them to be in our possession, and are too
+reluctant to recognize the divine bounty. But what has been sought with
+eagerness ought to be acknowledged with promptitude.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as the camels had been supplied, the good man presented Rebekah
+with a suitable token of his thankfulness. It consisted of a golden
+ear-ring, of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands, of ten
+shekels weight of gold. These were, probably, the costly ornaments which
+Abraham had commissioned his servant to bestow upon the future wife of his
+son; and which, as he had now seen the accomplishment of his prayer, he no
+longer hesitated to give this interesting young woman.</p>
+
+<p>Availing himself of the present favourable opportunity of entering into
+some conversation with her, he inquired whose daughter she might be, and
+whether she thought her father could afford him and his attendants; and
+camels, sufficient accommodation? In the east this was so common an act of
+hospitality, that the question did not appear strange, or the request
+obtrusive. It was, besides, dictated by a strong suspicion, if not a full
+assurance, that he had attained the object of his journey. She gave a
+prompt and kind answer: "I am the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Milcah,
+which she bare unto Naoh. She said, moreover, unto him, we have both straw
+and provender enough, and room to lodge in," The man bowed in thankfulness
+to <i>her</i>, but in more expressive praise and gratitude to GOD. His heart
+was full, and his tongue could no longer remain silent. "Blessed," said
+he, "be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my
+master of his mercy and his truth. I, being in the way, the Lord led me to
+the house of my master's brethren." This was the language of <i>faith</i>--he
+recognizes the divine "mercy and truth" which had promised to multiply and
+extend the family of Abraham. It was the voice of <i>gratitude</i>--for he
+remembers the way in which God had conducted him, and sees the concurrence
+of Providence in all that had transpired. It contained also a delicate
+intimation to the young women, not only that he came from her venerable
+relative, but had some important business with her family. Rebekah made
+all possible haste back, and soon circulated through the family the joyful
+intelligence of this arrival.</p>
+
+<p>In reviewing what has been hitherto related of this charming story, and
+the circumstances of the first interview between the servant of Abraham
+and the future wife of Isaac, we beg to present to our young female
+readers, a more distinct statement and recommendation of the good
+qualities discoverable in Rebekah.</p>
+
+<p>1. Observe her <i>industrious and domesticated habits.</i> She was high-born,
+and had great connections--she possessed a commanding beauty of person
+and fascination of manners--but yet she did not indulge in indolence, or
+in frivolous pursuits. At that period luxury and refinement had not
+corrupted simplicity of manners, the affairs of a family were usually
+under the more direct inspection and management of its principal members,
+and custom did not prescribe an avoidance of all careful, nor even of all
+laborious, interference in domestic concerns. But there was a cheerfulness
+and an assiduity in the whole deportment of Rebekah, that proved it not
+merely custom, but a sense of duty that influenced her. She was attentive
+to her proper business, neither omitting nor performing it negligently. It
+is very unbecoming to see young persons resisting the wishes of their kind
+parents, who having had a better experience than themselves, are desirous
+of training them to domestic usefulness. Ill do they requite parental
+affection, which has devoted, perhaps, a considerable portion of
+hard-earned profits to their education in useful branches of knowledge, or
+to their acquirement of polite accomplishments: by refusing to assist in
+family arrangements, or to submit to that wise after-discipline, by which
+they may be prepared to occupy important situations in future life. It is
+not the proper business of a woman to <i>shine</i>, to court admiration, or to
+display superficial acquirements; nor, on the other hand, does either
+reason or religion reduce her to the inferior situation of a domestic
+drudge; but her education is ill bestowed, and perversely misapplied, if
+it unfit her for the appropriate duties of her station, if it make her
+proud and petulent, if it raise her above her sphere, and if it indispose
+her to a proper "care for the things of the world, how she may please
+her husband."</p>
+
+<p>In modern times it would be unjust to impute the entire blame to the young
+women themselves; much is attributable to the <i>system</i> which has been
+adopted in their education. Nothing indeed can justify, and few things can
+be said in extenuation of the guilt of an arrogant disposition, unyielding
+to the wishes of tender though perhaps less educated parents; but it is to
+be regretted, that the useful is often far less regarded in public
+seminaries than the ornamental; and that, while the exterior is polished,
+the mind remains comparatively uncultivated. We shall not be understood to
+require a total exclusion of elegant instruction, or polite
+accomplishments; but let the understanding be well directed, the memory
+amply stored, the judgment constantly exercised, the hands usefully
+employed, the temper carefully watched and disciplined--above all, let
+religion and the fear of God be the basis of the whole fabric, that "our
+daughters may be as corner-stones, polished after the similitude of a
+palace."--"By daughters families are united and connected to their mutual
+strength, as the part of a building are by the corner-stones; and when
+they are graceful and beautiful, both in <i>body</i> and <i>mind</i>, they are then
+<i>polished</i> after the similitude of a nice and curious structure. When we
+see our daughters well established, and stayed with wisdom and discretion,
+as corner-stones are fastened in the building; when we see them by faith
+united to Christ as the chief corner-stone, adorned with the graces of
+God's Spirit, which are the polishing of that which is naturally rough,
+and become <i>women professing godliness</i>; when we see them purified and
+consecrated to God as living <i>temples</i>, we think ourselves happy in them."
+[<a href="#foot15">15</a>]</p>
+
+<p>2. We see in Rebekah's interview with the servant of Abraham, a pattern of
+<i>unaffected simplicity</i>. It is this which throws an inexpressible charm
+over the narrative. We see nothing but <i>nature</i>; not a particle of false
+delicacy or finesse. There is no study, no aim to please, no acting a part
+to court esteem, no suspicions about her, and no concealments; but, in
+every word and motion, the most perfect artlessness. "When unadorned" she
+approaches the well to draw the evening supply of water, she seems
+"adorned the most."</p>
+
+<p>Let young ladies beware of affectation. It is one of the most disgusting
+qualities that can attach to female character. It will never win esteem,
+but will excite ridicule. There is reason to believe that it is frequently
+produced in a gradual and almost imperceptible manner, but it takes the
+deeper root, and extends the wider influence in consequence of a slow
+growth. It is not always easy to make the individual herself sensible of
+possessing it, but the surest way of preventing its baneful influence, is
+to guard against whatever has a tendency to produce it. Be
+yourself--simple and natural. The art of pleasing is--to please without
+art. Aim not to shine in borrowed feathers, or to acquire the
+peculiarities of another, especially when they are obviously incongruous
+with your own native character; and avoid thinking of yourself as of a
+person of great consequence in every circle, for this is a most infallible
+means of really becoming of no consequence at all.</p>
+
+<p>The only sufficient security against affectation of every kind, is
+Christian humility. An inspired writer admonishes us to be clothed with
+it; and, where this is wanting, every attempt to conceal deformities of
+character will resemble only the thinnest veil, which may be seen through
+by the most careless observer. This recommendation may possibly appear to
+some rather antiquated and obsolete; we shall, nevertheless, persist in
+it, as of essential importance; and support it by quoting the reference of
+the apostle to him who has best exemplified the principle, and whose
+Spirit alone can effectually impress it upon the heart: "Let nothing be
+done through strife or <i>vain glory</i>, but in <i>lowliness of mind</i>, let each
+esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things,
+but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you which
+was also in Christ Jesus; who, being in the form of God, thought it not
+robbery to be equal with God; but made himself of no reputation, and took
+upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and
+being found in fashion as a man, he <i>humbled himself</i>, and became obedient
+unto death, even the death of the cross."</p>
+
+<p>3. The <i>modesty</i> of Rebekah was conspicuous. Vain is the effort to obtain
+admiration, without this quality. Confining the term to the general
+behaviour of females in society, which is its most common application, it
+may be considered as opposed to obstrusiveness, and as contradistinguished
+from bashfulness. Rebekah waited till the servant of Abraham addressed
+her, before she paid any attention to him; and when he put the questions
+which have been related, she readily gave him an answer.</p>
+
+<p>Forwardness is so unbecoming the female character, so opposite to all real
+delicacy of mind, that no intermixture of other qualities can render it
+tolerable. If it be associated with rare and brilliant powers, or very
+eminent acquirements, it is calculated to excite envy and hatred, because
+it never fails to produce an overbearing conduct. But whatever another's
+consciousness of mental inferiority may be, this unhallowed temper will
+produce determined resistance. The very worm that crawls upon the earth
+will resent the giant's tread. If, on the contrary, it be united to
+shallowness of capacity, it will render its unhappy possessor utterly
+contemptible notwithstanding other exterior attractions which might
+otherwise command attention. It is, in this case, the effect of egregious
+ignorance; and so far from extorting respect, it only serves to expose
+that inbecility, which, but for this strange mode of attempt at
+concealment, might have remained, in a considerable measure, undetected.</p>
+
+<p>Genuine modesty is also distinguishable from extreme bashfulness. As the
+usages of civilized society do, by no means, banish females from social
+intercourse, it is requisite in avoiding forwardness to retain a certain
+degree of self-possession. Boldness and excessive timidity are the two
+extremes to be avoided. The latter is irksome, both to the individual
+herself, and to others with whom she may be called to associate. It
+produces an unnatural character, and, perhaps, may be classed with
+affectation. It is to be feared, that many who blush at the merest
+trifles, and are confounded at maintaining the least interchange of
+sentiment, are too little ashamed of sin, and too unacquainted with the
+state of their own hearts. The young need not be mortified at any
+deformity but vice, nor afraid even of confessing ignorance, or making
+inquiries, so long as they show a proper solicitude for improvement. It
+is, in fact, a consciousness of ignorance that leads to the acquisition of
+knowledge. It inspires the desire of information, and stimulates to the
+use of every means of acquiring it; but a vain and conceited mind is
+really ignorant, and is likely to remain so, while it presumes
+upon wisdom.</p>
+
+<p>4. <i>Courtesy</i> was another conspicuous feature in the character of Rebekah.
+The stranger had no sooner requested a little supply of water, than she
+lets down the pitcher from her shoulder, and manifests the most obliging
+disposition to render him service. Her whole proceeding evinces good
+humour and affability in the highest degree, and the "law of kindness is
+in her tongue." Josephus relates that there were other young females with
+her, who were asked for water, but refused; and that Rebekah reproved them
+for their churlishness. Her civilities were connected essentially with her
+promotion, though she had no selfish purpose in view: they resulted solely
+from a pure and disinterested generosity of spirit.</p>
+
+<p>Let young women remember that an unfeeling and disobliging temper is
+unworthy of their character, and opposite to their real interest. It is at
+once a neglect of duty, and a certain forfeiture of esteem. Courteousness
+is peculiarly suited to their age and sex, and particularly expected of
+them. Nor should the exercise of this disposition be restricted merely to
+their superiors or equals; it ought to characterize their behaviour to
+their dependents and inferiors. If young people display affability only
+when in company with others, who move in the same, or in a more elevated
+sphere of life than themselves, but assume consequence, and betray an
+arrogant spirit amongst their servants; we cannot but suspect that their
+good qualities are only apparent, and their motives selfish. The true
+character of every person is to be learned at home, and at times when no
+exterior influences operate to make persons different from themselves.
+Then the mask is taken off, meretricious ornaments are dispensed with,
+and consequently native qualities appear. Tyrannical conduct may compel
+obedience, but an amiable spirit alone can command affection, and render
+servitude pleasant. There are, indeed, great constitutional differences;
+but it is no apology for petulance to say, it is natural to us, or that we
+were born irritable. Our constitutional imperfections ought to be
+carefully watched, and resolutely corrected. Irregularities of temper are
+capable of being subdued by the vigorous efforts of religious principle.
+It is possible, by careful and constant discipline, to subdue the most
+untamed spirit; and is equally politic, because it renders its possessor
+disagreeable to others, and miserable in herself.</p>
+
+<p>It is on many accounts not only wicked, but foolish, to conduct yourselves
+with provoking superciliousness towards inferiors. Courtesy is easily
+practised, and the reverse dangerous to your own peace and comfort.
+Besides, it is scarcely possible to think of a human being so utterly
+contemptible, that his esteem is not worth possessing, or so morose that
+he may not be conciliated by kindness: and in a world in which we are
+liable to such reverses, and exposed to such reproaches, the friendship of
+the meanest person may be advantageous. Hence, it is well remarked by Dr.
+Barrow, "the great Pompey, the glorious triumpher over nations, and
+admired darling of fortune, was at last beholden to a slave for the
+composing his ashes, and celebrating his funeral obsequies. The honour of
+the greatest men depends on the estimation of the least: and the good-will
+of the meanest peasant is a brighter ornament to the fortune, a greater
+accession to the grandeur of a prince, than the most radiant gem in his
+royal diadem. However, the spite and enmity of one (and him the most weak
+otherwise and contemptible) person, may happen to spoil the content of our
+whole life, and deprive us of the most comfortable enjoyments thereof; may
+divert our thoughts from our delightful employments, to a solicitous care
+of self-preservation and defence; may discompose our minds with vexatious
+passions; may, by false reports, odious suggestions, and slanderous
+defamations, blast our credit, raise a storm of general hatred, and
+conjure up thousands of enemies against us; may, by insidious practices,
+supplant and undermine us, prejudice our welfare, endanger our estate, and
+involve us in a bottomless gulf of trouble."</p>
+
+<p>5. We may take occasion, from Rebekah's kindness, to commend another
+quality for which she was distinguished--<i>humanity to animals</i>. Abraham's
+servant merely requested some water to quench his own thirst; but she felt
+for the dumb creatures that attended him, who could only express their
+wants by signs. She offered to supply his camels, and hastened to fill the
+troughs, that they might drink. How kind, how considerate was this! There
+are few persons of a really amiable temper, who do not cherish an
+attachment to animals; still we should distinguish between a proper
+attention to their necessities and comforts, and that excessive caressing
+fondness which is unbecoming a rational being.</p>
+
+<p>But in what language shall we sufficiently denounce <i>cruelty</i> to animals?
+Are they not the creatures of God; and endowed with capacities both of
+pain and pleasure? Why should we inflict unnecessary pain, even upon the
+meanest reptile? Who has given us authority to do so? By what argument, or
+by what sophistry, shall we seek a justification of such conduct? Why
+should we abridge the short span of existence allotted to the inferior
+creation, especially when we recollect that "the spirit of a beast goeth
+downward;" and that, being destitute of immortality, the whole period of
+their enjoyment is limited to the short date of their life on earth? It is
+the mark of a debased mind to seek amusement from the writhings of
+defenceless creatures, to sport even with the agonies of a fly. Parents
+and guardians of youth should particularly guard against the encouragement
+of a principle of cruelty, by allowing this practice. Children should not
+be suffered to indulge in such abuses, but should rather be taught to set
+a proper value upon the life and liberty of an animal. The subsequent
+maltreatment of the lower creation, many of the outrageous passions that
+in maturer life disgrace the uneducated part of society, and even the cold
+insensibility to the necessities of others, which so often obtains in the
+higher circles, may be traced to this early commencement. The future
+tyrant is formed in the hours of sportive cruelty; and he who in infancy
+practices on a fly, may in maturity domineer over an empire. It is
+important to trace evil passions and principles to their origin, to watch
+their developement and first operations, and, at the earliest possible
+period, to implant corrective sentiments in the youthful mind.</p>
+
+<p>Solomon represents it as characteristic of "a righteous man," that he is
+"merciful to his beast;" and if it be censurable to assail the meanest
+insect which is not positively noxious, how much more to abuse those
+animals which contribute to our domestic comfort and security? This may be
+done, not only by beating, goading, and over-driving the laborious ox, or
+the swift-paced horse, by whom we cultivate our fields, or pursue our
+commercial concerns; but by stinting them of food, supplying them with
+insufficient or inferior provender, or leaving them to careless or
+peculating hands. Jacob was a specimen of kindness to animals--Balaam of
+brutality. The Mosaic law wisely and mercifully provided for the ox which
+trod out the corn, an enactment worthy of the supreme legislator, and
+coincident with the feelings of every humane heart.</p>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="05-2"></a>Section II.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  The Servant of Abraham cordially received into the House of Laban--tells
+  his Story--proposes to take Rebekah--Consent of her Family--her
+  Readiness to go--the Interview with Isaac--Rebekah become his
+  Wife--their Anxieties--Birth of Jacob and Esau--Isaac's Death-bed, and
+  Rebekah's unwarrantable Proceedings--her Solicitude respecting her
+  Son's future Conduct.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>We left the good old servant of Abraham at the well of water--we
+listened to his grateful acknowledgments to Heaven for prospering his
+journey--and we saw the interesting daughter of Bethuel run home to inform
+her friends of the extraordinary circumstance that had occurred. She had
+met a stranger--he had accepted her assistance, and presented her with
+costly ornaments--he had requested the customary rites of hospitality--he
+had been praying like a servant of the most high God--he had even
+intimated that he was travelling to fulfil some special commission of his
+master and their relative, the venerable Abraham! Every heart welcomed the
+tidings, and mutual congratulation circulated through the family.</p>
+
+<p>Laban, the brother of Rebekah, whoso mercenary spirit viewed with
+peculiar satisfaction the ear-ring and bracelets which had been presented
+to his sister, hastened immediately to the well, and gave the messenger of
+Abraham a warm invitation to his home: "Come in," said he, "thou blessed
+of the Lord; wherefore standest thou without? for I have prepared the
+house and room for the camels." If we were quite certain that this pious
+language was dictated by a proportionable purity of motive, we should be
+highly gratified with it; but, alas! how common is it to use words of
+customary congratulation without meaning, and to sacrifice sincerity to
+politeness!</p>
+
+<p>The man accepted the invitation; his camels were soon ungirded and
+supplied with provender, water was furnished to wash his feet and those of
+his men, and the table spread with a plentiful supply of provision for
+their refreshment. We need not be surprised, however, that he refuses to
+eat till he has introduced the important business upon which he came! the
+good man's heart is overflowing, and he prefers the discharge of his duty
+before his "necessary food." O that all our obedience to God were
+characterized by a similar zeal and fidelity!</p>
+
+<p>"Speak on," said Laban: upon which, with admirable skill and perfect
+ingenuousness, he recounts a series of simple facts, interweaving his
+narrative with such touching arguments as proved irresistible: he stated
+without the vanity of a superior domestic who was actually the steward of
+the family, that he was "Abraham's servant;" and then proceeds to mention,
+not his own exploits, or merit, or influence, but the opulence and
+prosperity of his master; his becoming great and rich in "flocks and
+herds, and silver and gold, and men-servants and maid-servants, and camels
+and asses," he devoutly ascribes to "the Lord:" but at the same time gives
+the fact a prominence in his discourse well calculated to conciliate the
+persons he addressed, and prepare them for his subsequent statements. He
+now proceeds to mention Isaac, taking care to intimate the weighty
+considerations, that he was the son of the illustrious patriarch whom he
+served, by Sarah his beloved wife; born at an advanced period of their
+lives, and therefore young, as well as the child of promise, and heir of
+all the wealth which his master possessed. He then explicitly refers to
+the solemn oath by which he had been bound to seek a wife for his son; not
+amongst the idolatrous Canaanites near his own residence, but amongst his
+kindred in Haran. Dear is the name of <i>kindred</i>, especially when families
+are separated at such distances of time and space from each other, that
+they scarcely expect to meet again in an unbroken circle, and renew the
+embraces of friendship. It is then the tenderest sensibilities are
+excited, the fondest remembrances renewed, and the heart becomes
+accessible to every endearing impression!</p>
+
+<p>Eliezer, having now gained the ear and won the regard of the listening
+circle, next adverts to the conversation which had passed previously to
+the commencement of his journey; in which he exhibits to great advantage
+the faith of his master Abraham, and the particular direction of his
+wishes, By repeating the story of his interview with Rebekah at the well,
+in connexion with the command to seek a wife for Isaac among the kindred
+of the family, he points at once to the object he had in view, and appeals
+to their piety in estimating the movements of Providence. They must
+consider whether all these concurring circumstances were not evidences of
+a divine interposition, and whether some important consequences were not
+likely to result from the proposed connexion: "And now, if you will deal
+kindly and truly with my master, tell me; if not, tell me; that I may turn
+to the right hand or to the left." In all this the very spirit of his
+master is conspicuous in the servant; he had not lived with Abraham in
+vain; a similar fear of God was before his eyes, and the same solicitude
+to fulfil the duties of his station; he could not eat, he could not drink,
+till he had disburdened his full heart, and ascertained the probability of
+success in his important mission.</p>
+
+<p>Every servant may here take a lesson of fidelity to his master on earth,
+and every servant of Christ especially, who sustains the ministerial
+character, may see a fine specimen of the ardour, energy, and affection
+with which it becomes him to execute his high commission. This delicate
+service upon which Abraham's servant was sent to Nahor, was honourably
+discharged; but how much more "he that winneth souls is wise!"</p>
+
+<p>What could the friends of Rebekah say to the appeal they had heard? Laban
+and Bethuel were overwhelmed. There was a mysterious singularity in the
+whole train of circumstances, calculated to impress the most indifferent
+and superficial mind, and they bowed to the interposing wisdom of the
+Supreme Disposer. As soon as the solemn feeling produced by such an
+extraordinary narrative was sufficiently regulated to permit them to
+speak, they joined in expressions of devout acknowledgment and submissive
+consent; "The thing proceedeth from the Lord; we cannot speak unto thee
+bad or good. Behold, Rebekah is before thee; take her and go, and let her
+be thy master's son's wife, as the Lord hath spoken."</p>
+
+<p>This was a moment of exquisite satisfaction; but whence did it originate?
+Not surely so much in worldly as in religious considerations. The period
+was arrived, that anxious period to the parent, for the marriage of his
+lovely Rebekah; and now he was satisfied with the disposal of her to a
+distant relation. A worldly mind would have rejoiced indeed in the outward
+suitability of the match, but especially in the flattering prospect of
+great possessions which it presented. These inferior views too generally
+and too exclusively influence matrimonial alliances; the hearts both of
+the young and the aged are captivated by the splendours of life, as if
+they necessarily secured the possession of real happiness, or as if they
+could compensate for the absence of those mental and moral qualities which
+can alone constitute the basis of substantial comfort. But in the present
+instance, whatever pleasure might be lawfully derived from the assurances
+which were given of the opulence of Abraham, and from the endearing
+circumstance of the already existing relationship between the two
+families, it was the perception of a <i>Providence</i>, superintending and
+guiding the whole arrangement, that occasioned these most delightful
+feelings; it was not an idolatrous, but a pious connexion, and God had
+given the most striking indications of his will.</p>
+
+<p>Let parents remember, that with whatever temporal prosperities they may
+connect their beloved daughters, there is no security for permanent
+happiness without real religion; and let children consider, that if the
+fear of God do not possess their own breasts, and influence their
+matrimonial choice, the delirium of pleasure will soon be past, and a
+sense of inexpressible vacuity be left behind. The world is a gay
+deceiver, and life a fleeting dream; the mists of illusion which gather
+over the morning of existence, gradually disappear as the day advances;
+and this imagined scene of enchantment, this fairy-land of pleasure
+subsides into the reality of a thorny wilderness. The only preparation for
+such a change, is a piety which seeks its happiness on high, and knows
+that no earthly condition can form a paradise without the presence of the
+blessed God.</p>
+
+<p>The faithful servant, having adored the divine goodness for thus evidently
+prospering his way, gave suitable presents to this happy family; jewels of
+silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment, were presented to the young and
+beautiful bride elect, and "precious things" to her mother and brother:
+after this he could eat, necessary food being sweetened by temporal and
+spiritual blessings.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, faithful to his commission, and eager to return, he
+presses for a dismission, to which we need not wonder that the brother and
+mother object, requiring him to remain at least ten days: still he urges
+his request, and pleads that the Lord had prospered his way: but how
+natural is their reluctance to part in a moment from so dear a daughter,
+never perhaps to see her face again! They at length agree to defer the
+decision of the affair to herself: Rebekah, with all the frankness so
+remarkable in her whole deportment, instantly replied, "I will go."</p>
+
+<p>It may appear mysterious, that when her parents pleaded only for a few
+days, when modesty would even seem to have dictated a little delay; and
+when filial tenderness must have powerfully resisted so sudden and
+immediate a departure, that she should express so prompt a compliance,
+without even stipulating for a single day. Something perhaps may be justly
+imputed to the times, but far more to the religious state of her own mind;
+a sense of duty overwhelmed a feeling of reluctance, together with every
+inferior consideration. She was doubtless in the habit of daily
+intercourse with God, and in fervent prayer had sought divine direction:
+she saw an overruling providence--God was in the affair--his finger,
+visible to the eye of faith, pointed out the way in which she should go,
+and with unhesitating obedience she confessed her readiness to part with
+all the felicities of home to seek a distant alliance, at the voice of
+that sovereign Power to whom she committed her future destiny. Flattering
+as the scene before her must have appeared to a mere worldly eye, the
+sacrifices she made at this moment of compliance were certainly most
+considerable. What could have led to such an answer, when standing between
+the tears, the tenderness, the entreaties of parental and fraternal
+affection, and the urgency of a mere stranger, the <i>servant</i> too of her
+future house--but a faith which overcame the world, and dictated her holy
+resolution? <i>Heaven</i> appointed her journey, and <i>nature</i> pleaded in vain.</p>
+
+<p>To every reader we recommend the noble principle which actuated this young
+heroine. Let inclination bow to a sense of duty--let God be obeyed rather
+than man--let not only authority be resisted, but even the fondest
+endearments sacrificed to the divine requirements. Apply this principle to
+a higher occasion, and remember that the Son of God has declared, "If any
+man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and
+children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot
+be my disciple; and whosoever doth not bear his cross and come after me,
+cannot be my disciple."</p>
+
+<p>How tender, how affectionate is the parting scene! How the heart speaks in
+every word! The whole group seems placed before our eyes; and we witness
+the tears that flow, the sighs that heave each bosom; we seem to hear the
+faltering yet fond accent, in which the dear forsaken family pronounce
+the last benediction, "Thou art our sister; be thou the mother of
+thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which
+hate them."</p>
+
+<p>Behold Rebekah, quitting the scene of her infancy and youth; Painful was
+the sacrifice, but pleasant the service: a thousand objects would revive
+the remembrance of past occupations and occurrences; a thousand
+circumstances rush into her memory; her susceptible mind would often
+retrace the scenes once so familiar, now to be abandoned for ever;
+affection would often recal the names of Bethuel and Laban, and filial
+tenderness would weep at the thought of maternal anxiety. She was about to
+commit her happiness to the disposal of another--to form another
+connexion--to seek another home--the young plant was removed by Providence
+to take root in a new soil and situation. This is always a moment of
+trial, and in the usual manner of estimating life, an experiment of
+doubtful issue; but he who "commits his way to the Lord," and "leans not
+to his own understanding," but at the call of duty, in the spirit of
+prayer, dissolves or forms connections, may reasonably hope for the
+"blessing which maketh rich" in all the essentials of happiness. Young
+people! venture not upon a single step without a previous application for
+guidance to the "throne of grace," lest by inconsideration and rashness
+you forfeit the favours you might have secured by piety. At your eventful
+period of life the transactions of <i>one day</i> are likely to affect the
+welfare <i>many succeeding years</i>; and if you would reap a future harvest of
+joy, you must sow in present tears and prayers.</p>
+
+<p>No incident of the journey is mentioned till the cavalcade was nearly
+arrived at Hebron; they then saw a person walking in a thoughtful
+attitude; and Rebekah, suspecting probably that he might be one of the
+household establishment of Abraham, inquired of the servant, "What man is
+this that walketh in the field to meet us?" The servant informed her that
+it was his young master, the son of Abraham; he was come into the field
+for the purposes of meditation and prayer. She instantly took a veil and
+covered herself, alighting from the camel. This was done in compliance
+with the usages of the times, as a part of the ceremonial belonging to the
+presentation of a bride to her intended husband: the eastern brides are
+generally veiled in a particular manner upon such occasions. This custom
+seems at once expressive of female modesty and subjection.</p>
+
+<p>Isaac appears to have avoided addressing her when he perceives the veil,
+but taking the servant aside, he learns from his mouth the long and
+pleasing tale of every circumstance in his journey; he participates the
+general feeling, and with emotions of gratitude and gladness conducts his
+Rebekah into the tent of Sarah, whose loss he had so deeply regretted,
+that now for the first time, he was comforted respecting it. After the
+customary mode, Rebekah became his wife, and he loved her. [<a href="#foot16">16</a>]</p>
+
+<p>Peace be to that dwelling, the residence of a dutiful son and a tender
+husband--a kind, generous, open-hearted, pious wife! Dear were the ties of
+nature which united them, but still dearer the bonds of religion! It was a
+day they never could forget--it was a friendship that could never be
+dissolved! What could be wanting to complete their bliss? Approving
+friends, reciprocal attachment, concurring providences, smiling heaven,
+sanctioned the proceeding. At present their cup was full to the brim--not
+a bitter ingredient mingled in the portion. But while we congratulate
+their situation, let us imitate their example; and if we would participate
+a similar felicity, cherish a similar spirit: we may be fully assured that
+real piety will sweeten the pleasures and possessions of life; it may even
+prevent, and will certainly sanctify, disappointments.</p>
+
+<p>We are, however, easily misled; looking only at the outward appearance,
+(and in general little more can be known of the history of families,) it
+is common to fancy the prosperous, and persons of the greatest
+connections, really possessed of the most abundant share of happiness. In
+some cases every earthly good seems to be the allotted portion, and we are
+ready to imagine that sorrow has found no means of access, no door of
+admission: but a very slight knowledge of the world is sufficient to
+ascertain that there is a "crook in every lot," and that this world is not
+the destined abode of unmingled enjoyment. This remark is exemplified in
+the history of Isaac and Rebekah. Twenty years elapsed, and they had no
+children: this must have been a severe affliction, not only because at
+that period a general hope of being connected with the Messiah led all
+pious persons to be solicitous of a family, but because Isaac was the son
+of promise, the multiplication of his seed was distinctly recorded, and he
+had formed his matrimonial connection in the fear of God. As he partook
+of the trial, he seems to have been endowed with the spirit of his
+illustrious father; though he lived childless, he did not cherish
+despondency, but "entreated the Lord for his wife," which was the only
+effectual means of procuring the blessing.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1836.] His prayer was heard; but this new
+favour was attended with unusual anxieties, which proved signs of future
+events. She ultimately bore twins, of which the elder was destined to
+serve the younger. As names were usually given in reference to the
+circumstances attending the birth of children, so <i>Esau</i> signified <i>red,</i>
+in allusion to his colour, and <i>Jacob</i> signified the <i>supplanter.</i> Esau,
+and his posterity the Edomites, were of a sanguinary disposition, and
+peculiarly hostile to Israel; Jacob supplanted his brother in the
+birthright; Esau was "a cunning hunter, a man of the field;" Jacob, a "a
+plain man, dwelling in tents."</p>
+
+<p>From the earliest period of their lives we may trace the existence of
+those partialities in the two parents which have so frequently disquieted
+the otherwise most harmonious families. The Scriptures assign a particular
+cause for the fondness which Isaac cherished for Esau, which seems a most
+lamentable weakness in so venerable a man: it arose from his eating of his
+venison; for he was given to the indulgence of his appetite. Surely when
+we observe how the greatest of men have been guilty of some of the most
+unaccountable littleness, it should awaken us to holy jealousy over
+ourselves, and induce us to establish a system of constant, laborious, and
+impartial self-inspection.</p>
+
+<p>The occasion of Rebekah's partiality is not distinctly recorded; it might
+possibly have originated in his being more domestic, and attentive to
+herself. [<a href="#foot17">17</a>] The usual effects resulted from these partialities: Isaac
+was blind to the sins of his son, who soon pursued a course of conduct
+that occasioned both his parents the deepest grief; while Rebekah's
+fondness involved herself and her favourite child in the greatest
+criminality.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1750.]</p>
+
+<p>Having attained an advanced period of life, and becoming conscious of
+increasing infirmities, Isaac took measures to convey the patriarchal
+benediction and the blessings of the covenant to his posterity. With this
+view he called his eldest son, and in accents of fondness requested him to
+go and procure him that savoury kind of food to which he was so partial;
+after which he expressed his intention of pronouncing the blessing, and
+thus securing for him, as he imagined, the mercies of the Abrahamic
+covenant. Overhearing this conversation, Rebekah thinks of her favourite
+son, and instantly devises a plan to supersede his elder brother. This
+was, indeed, conformable to the determination of Providence; but is no
+justification of her sinful policy. If it were even her intention to
+accomplish the divine promises, the plea would not vindicate her doing
+evil, that good might come.</p>
+
+<p>Her object being to countervail the design of her husband, she instantly
+commences a system of manoeuvring to carry her point. We must consider her
+now as under a particular temptation, and evidently acting inconsistently
+with the natural ingenuousness of her character, no less than with the
+principles of her religion. The proper course would have been that of
+persuasion, entreaty, or remonstrance; but under the apprehension that
+Isaac's extravagant attachment to his darling child would render this
+unavailable, she deviates at once from the path of rectitude to gain her
+purpose. It is most unfortunate when the heads of families are influenced
+by opposite wishes, and refuse a fair, candid exposition of their own
+views to each other. Confidence is the basis of friendship, and in no case
+should be cherished with more assiduous care than in domestic life.</p>
+
+<p>Active in the execution of a scheme she had so promptly devised, Rebekah
+states to Jacob all that had passed between his father and his elder
+brother; proposing, or rather commanding him to go to the flock with all
+possible despatch, and fetch two kids of the goats; "and I," says she,
+"will make them savoury meat for thy father, such as he loveth; and thou
+shall bring it to thy father, that he may eat, and that he may bless thee
+before his death." Jacob hesitates--not, however, as we could have wished,
+at the execution of the plan; but solely because he is apprehensive of its
+failing, and producing unhappy consequences. Jacob was pacified by his
+mother's offer to run all hazards, and incur the whole responsibility of
+the transaction. She reiterates her request with all the fervour that a
+better cause should have inspired; and has not long to wait in a state of
+irksome suspense, before the favourite of her excessive affection returns
+with the kids. Not a moment is to be lost--every thing is put in
+requisition--the savoury meat is soon prepared. The hunter's speed is
+outstripped by management and artifice--in vain he toils over the
+lengthening field. Jacob is introduced, by his mother, into Isaac's
+apartment, clothed in the goodly raiment of Esau, covered on the more
+exposed parts of the body with the skins of the kids, to make him resemble
+his hairy brother; and presents the food with due formality and
+dissembling eagerness to the blind old patriarch. Some suspicions,
+however, are awakened--"Who is it?"--"I am Esau, thy first-born."--"How
+can this be--how quickly thou hast returned?"--The young man blushes and
+trembles--but he must either confess or persevere--there was no
+alternative--the mother's eyes probably intimated that he <i>must</i> persist
+in his deception. Awful to relate! he ascribes his good success,
+personating Esau, to "the Lord." Isaac pursues other measures to obtain
+satisfaction. His voice appears altered, and he begs to <i>feel</i> his
+son--the falsehood silences, but does not satisfy him. At length, he is
+persuaded--he blesses him, and eats the venison. Though the dupe of
+atrocious artifice, Isaac is, nevertheless, under supernatural direction,
+and was afterwards unable to revoke his benediction.</p>
+
+<p>But what did Rebekah gain by this detestable contrivance? She saw, indeed,
+her favourite son inheriting the blessing; but this would have descended
+upon him without her interference, according to the predeterminations of
+Providence. She saw also a just recrimination upon her deceit on the part
+of observant Heaven. The original dislike of the two brothers was kindled
+into a raging flame. Esau burned with indignation at being thus cajoled,
+and resolved to avail himself of the day of mourning for his father, to
+satiate his resentment in his brother's blood: and Rebekah, to save both
+their lives, was obliged to send her guilty, but favourite son, to a
+distance. Thus were the latter days of both the parents imbittered by
+their indiscreet and criminal partialities!</p>
+
+<p>After the departure of Jacob, the fond mother becomes not merely
+solicitous for his safety, but anxious respecting his future conduct. She
+reflects on the temptation to form an idolatrous alliance to which he
+might become exposed, unchecked by parental authority, and under
+circumstances which would naturally induce him to seek a shelter from the
+storm of adversity in the bosom of conjugal endearment. If the language of
+Rebekah, upon this occasion, be tinctured with impatience, we cannot but
+feel gratified to see it founded upon religious sentiment. "And Rebekah
+said to Isaac, I am weary of my life, because of the daughters of Heth: if
+Jacob take a wife of the daughters of Heth, such as these which are of the
+daughters of the land, what good shall my life do to me?"</p>
+
+<p>We are unwilling to part with Rebekah precisely at this point of her
+history; but here it is that the sacred narrative drops her name. It is
+written, however, we doubt not, on the imperishable pages of another
+volume, which is emphatically styled, "the Lamb's book of life."</p>
+
+<p>This abrupt termination suggests, amongst other considerations, the
+<i>truth</i> of the narrative. If it had been the purpose of the writer to
+exhibit the subject of his story to the admiration of posterity, or to
+display his own powers, rather than to represent fact or record
+instructive biography, he would have carefully avoided whatever tended to
+diminish the interest of the whole, and give it an unfinished appearance.
+By concealing some of the more unsightly parts of the picture, and by
+rendering prominent others of a more attractive character, he might have
+contrived to accomplish an <i>effect</i>, though at the expense of truth and
+reality. But the sentiments and prepossessions of the writer disappear
+from the narrative of Scripture. There is no effort to conceal any facts
+which may be supposed to weaken the general impression, or to introduce
+explanatory or encomiastic statements which may be thought to strengthen
+and enhance it. In every page, in every sentence, it is apparent that the
+great object is instruction, and not amusement. The historian has no
+private views--no partialities--no misconceptions--the pen of inspiration
+is dipped in the fountain of truth, and "holy men of God spake as they
+were moved by the Holy Ghost."</p>
+
+<p>Let the sad inconsistencies which disgrace the closing part of Rebekah's
+history, awaken every reader to a just sense of the importance of a
+persevering uniformity of character. It is of great consequence, that we
+adorn the religion we profess, and that our light shine more and
+more--that we grow in grace as we advance in years, and that we do not
+resemble the changing wind or the inconstant wave. Let us improve the
+failure and irregularity of others to the purpose of self-examination;
+and, while we neither extenuate nor aggravate their faults, aim to avoid
+them. We have enough to encourage, yet sufficient to caution us, A life of
+unblemished piety is almost as rare an occurrence, as a day of unclouded
+brightness; but many such adorn the annals of the church, and the grace of
+God is fully competent to multiply their number.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="06"></a>Miriam.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter VI.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>Proceedings of the new King of Egypt--Birth of Moses--Conduct of
+  Miriam--Preservation of Moses--Escape of Israel--Miriam's Zeal in
+  celebrating the Event--her Character formed by early
+  advantages--Contrasted with Michal--she engages with Aaron in a Plot
+  against Moses--God observes it--Trial--Punishment of Leprosy inflicted
+  upon Miriam--her Cure--dies at Kadesh--general Remarks on
+  Slander--debasing Nature of Sin--Hope of escaping Punishment
+  fallacious--Danger of opposing Christ--Exhortation to imitate the
+  Temper of Moses.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>The family of Amram was distinguished by a very striking peculiarity. All
+the three younger branches of which it consisted, Aaron, Moses, and
+Miriam, because eminent in ancient Israel. Their history is considerably
+intermingled; but the latter, from the design of this work, will claim our
+chief attention.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ 1571.]</p>
+
+<p>Sixty-four years had elapsed from the death of Joseph, when the "<i>new</i>
+king over Egypt," influenced by an ill-founded jealousy of the Israelites,
+adopted one of those measures to which weak and wicked princes are
+sometimes excited by an unhappy combination of bad counsel, and
+mean-spirited perverseness. Instead of regarding this people, who had been
+prodigiously multiplied by a series of unexampled prosperities, as the
+most valuable portion of his subjects, and the best security to his crown;
+this Pharaoh was jealous of their strength, and determined to weaken it by
+a course of systematic oppression. This he called "dealing <i>wisely</i> with
+them;" whereas it would have been infinitely wiser, even upon principles
+of mere political prudence, to say nothing of justice and humanity, to
+have conciliated by kind treatment, rather than have exasperated by
+barbarous exactions, six hundred thousand of his subjects!</p>
+
+<p>His plan was, in the first place, to set over them taskmasters, to afflict
+them with extraordinary burdens; but, to his extreme mortification, "the
+more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew." Still his
+obstinacy did not permit the least relaxation of that rigorous discipline
+he had imposed: although, while he imbittered their lives, he failed of
+promoting his own interest. Disappointment exasperated his malignity; and
+he issued orders to certain Hebrew women, of whom Shiphrah and Puah are
+named as the principal in their office, to destroy every male child that
+should be born. They ventured, however, to disobey this mandate; the fear
+of God not allowing them to commit murder, though enjoined to do so by
+royal authority. The king called them to an account for their
+disobedience, and "charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born
+ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive."
+When we have such an awful display of the excess of human passions, that
+fearful band of banditti that is for ever disturbing the peace of society,
+it should inspire us with holy solicitude to suppress the first emotions
+of sin in our hearts, and to aspire after the dignity and the bliss of
+dominion over ourselves. Alas! how many who have been victorious over
+foreign powers, could never achieve this nobler conquest of internal
+depravity!</p>
+
+<p>The command of Pharaoh to his too tractable slaves, introduces us to the
+story of the birth and preservation of Moses. His mother--unenviable name
+in this sad season of calamity!--his weeping mother, by a thousand
+schemes, such as maternal fondness and ingenuity would naturally devise
+to save the little darling of her heart, contrived to conceal this "goodly
+child" for the space of three months; but finding it impossible to hide
+him any longer, she took him--and with what feelings, say, ye
+tender-hearted mothers!--to the river Nile.</p>
+
+<blockquote>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;--"A dealing parent lives<br />
+In many lives; through many a nerve she feels;<br />
+From child to child the quick affections spread,<br />
+For ever wand'ring, yet for ever fix'd.<br />
+Nor does division weaken, nor the force<br />
+Of constant operation e'er exhaust<br />
+Parental love. All other passions change<br />
+With changing circumstances; rise or fall,<br />
+Dependent on their object; claim returns;<br />
+Live on reciprocation, and expire,<br />
+Unfed by hope. A mother's fondness reigns,<br />
+Without a rival, and without an end."</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>H. MORE.</blockquote>
+
+<p>Miriam, an interesting actor upon this occasion, accompanied her mother.
+Willing to adopt every possible expedient, even at this last extremity,
+the afflicted parent had prepared a little boat of bulrushes, which grew
+plentifully on the bank; and, making it water-proof by the use of pitch
+and tar, she put the child into it, committed it to the uncertain
+elements, and retired from the heart-rending scene. Poor Miriam, his
+sister, supposed to be at this time about ten or twelve years of age, was
+placed at a distance to watch the event. Dear little sentinel! what heart
+can refuse to pity thy sad employment! who does not sympathize with thy
+sorrow, and begin to mourn with thee for thy anticipated bereavement!
+Imagination listens to strains which seem to strike upon the ear of
+distant ages:</p>
+
+<blockquote>"The flags and sea-weeds will awhile sustain<br />
+Their precious load, but it must sink ere long;<br />
+Sweet bade, farewell! Yet think not I will leave thee.<br />
+No, I will watch thee, till the greedy waves<br />
+Devour thy little bark."</blockquote>
+
+<p>The dispensations of Providence are indeed considerably diversified; but
+at what an early period does affliction familiarize itself, even with the
+happiest family! Behold Moses, in his cradle of bulrushes, exposed to the
+waters and the crocodiles of the Nile! Behold his little sister at some
+distance, participating the cares of her mother, and already at the outset
+of life deluged with a storm of grief. She had learned to love the
+babe--she had fondled it, and felt the kindlings of sisterly
+affection--and at an age just sufficiently advanced to realize something
+of the nature and extent of her loss, the new-born infant is torn from her
+heart by the hands of sanguinary violence. It was because he was a Hebrew
+child. His danger, and the distress of Miriam and her mother, arose from
+their belonging to the persecuted Israelites; but with all their
+disadvantages in this unfriendly world, let the children of pious parents
+rejoice, even amidst their tribulations and reproaches, in being connected
+with the people of God. It is an honour which, however at present
+overlooked, will hereafter be fully appreciated, both by those who have
+desired and those who have despised it!</p>
+
+<p>At this juncture, the daughter of Pharaoh, to whom Josephus has given the
+name of Thurmutis, came down with her maidens to the river-side; and
+perceiving the frame of bulrushes, sent her servant to fetch it. Upon
+opening it the little stranger wept. Her heart was touched with
+compassion, and she said, "This is one of the Hebrew children."</p>
+
+<p>Miriam, all observant and alert, seized the happy moment, introduced
+herself, or perhaps she was called by the royal lady; but dexterously
+contrived to propose her going to call a Hebrew nurse to nourish and rear
+it as her adopted child. Divinely influenced by him who has all hearts in
+his hands, and moves them by his secret touch, she consents; and who
+should the well-instructed young messenger bring, but the babe's own
+mother! Pharaoh's daughter intrusted the adopted stranger to her care, and
+pays her for a service which she would willingly have rendered even at the
+hazard of her life. The child grew, and, from the expression of the sacred
+historian, appears to have become a favourite with this illustrious
+princess. "And she called his name Moses; and she said, Because I drew him
+out of the water." Such is the story, which needs none of the Rabbinical
+embellishments to make it additionally interesting or wonderful.</p>
+
+<p>Miriam is next introduced to us upon an occasion the most remarkable that
+ever occurred in the history of the world. Miracle after miracle had been
+performed by the instrumentality of Moses, ere the infatuated king of
+Egypt could be persuaded to dismiss the children of Israel; and no sooner
+had he given his consent to their removal, than taking an immense army he
+pursued them to their encampment, which was by the sea, beside Pihahiroth,
+before Baal-Zephon. The terrified fugitives complained to their leader,
+who presented fervent supplications to Heaven for their deliverance. The
+ear of mercy heard; he was commanded to take his rod, and stretch it over
+the waters, upon the assurance that they should instantly divide, and
+present a dry channel, over which they might safely pass. Awed by a divine
+[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1491.] power the retiring waves became a
+wall of defence on either side, while the pillar of a cloud guided their
+adventurous march. During the night, the Egyptian and Israelitish armies
+were kept asunder, in consequence of the cloud affording a miraculous
+light to the one, and shedding disastrous darkness upon the other.
+Pharaoh, obdurate and furious, led on his troops into the new-formed
+channel; and already by anticipation seized in the grasp of his mighty
+malice, the prey which he intended to tear and devour. "And it came to
+pass, that in the morning-watch the Lord looked upon the host of the
+Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the
+host of the Egyptians, and took off their chariot-wheels, that they drave
+heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel:
+for the Lord fighteth for them against the Egyptians. And the Lord said
+unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come
+again upon the Egyptians, upon their Chariots, and upon their horsemen.
+And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to
+his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it;
+and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. And the
+waters returned, and covered the chariots, and horsemen, and all the host
+of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much
+as one of them."</p>
+
+<p>What a scene did the light of morning exhibit to Israel! Pharaoh's
+chariots, his chosen captains, and all his host, had perished; "the depths
+had covered them, they sank into the bottom as a stone." But, as if the
+waters refused to harbour even the bodies of these enemies of the people
+of God, they were no sooner drowned than thrown, by the indignant billows,
+upon the sea-shore. See their ranks broken, their persons disfigured,
+their glory for ever extinguished! Their unburied and unpitied remains
+proclaim how fearful a thing it is to fall into the hands of God, and how
+dangerous it is to venture upon "touching" his people, which is, in
+effect, "touching the apple of his eye."</p>
+
+<p>Anxious to celebrate so miraculous a victory, a victory achieved without a
+battle, and by the special interposal of an omnipotent arm, Moses composed
+that celebrated song of thanksgiving which is recorded in the fifteenth
+chapter of the book of Exodus. It is remarkable, not only on account of
+its intrinsic excellency, but as being composed six hundred and
+forty-seven years before the birth of Homer, the best of heathen poets,
+and, therefore, the most ancient piece of poetical composition in the
+world. It is characterized by the beauty and boldness of its imagery, the
+strength of its language, and the piety of its sentiments. If brought into
+comparison with the finest specimens of human genius that have since
+delighted mankind, its superiority must instantly be established.</p>
+
+<p>According to the practice of the age, Miriam, with whom we are
+particularly concerned at present, appeared at the head of the women to
+congratulate Israel upon this splendid event, in responsive strains and
+dances. She was anxious only to aid the universal joy, and express in
+every possible manner her accordance of sentiment with that of her two
+illustrious brothers, Moses and Aaron, and the thousands of Israel. Happy
+was it for Miriam, that, instead of leading the unhallowed and prostituted
+festivities of heathen gods, she was "educated in the Jews' religion;"
+and, from infancy to maturer years, had been taught to sing the praises of
+the great I AM! Nor did she merely mingle her undistinguishable notes of
+joy with her country-women and her nation; but, from the ardour of her
+zeal, and the general superiority of her character, she took the lead in
+these devotional raptures. Her early advantages, and her pious connexions,
+had contributed essentially to the formation of her future character. They
+not only contributed to impress a holy bias upon her mind, but to prepare
+and mould her into that characteristic pre-eminence, by which she occupied
+so conspicuous a station among the Israelites, and was ranked with their
+two illustrious leaders. [<a href="#foot18">18</a>] What might not be anticipated from the
+singular concurrence of such means in her favour? She was the sister of a
+man who refused the honours of a court, and perhaps of a crown, to incur a
+voluntary degradation with the afflicted people of God; and with him she
+enjoyed a familiar and incessant intercourse. She had, besides, received
+her earliest lessons in the school of adversity, and was become an eminent
+proficient in sacred knowledge.</p>
+
+<p>Let us duly appreciate, but be cautious of overrating, the advantage of
+religious education. It did not necessarily follow, from the means which
+Providence so amply and so graciously dispensed to Miriam, that she should
+become a truly religious person, much less that she should acquire such
+distinction in Israel; but while we gratefully admit, that good
+instruction is calculated to effect the best results, and will commonly
+produce them, it does not infallibly secure the end; nor can it at any
+time prove available, independently of the blessing of God. With the use
+of that system of means which is established in the providential
+arrangements of Heaven, his concurring sanction may be expected;
+although, to show the impotency of mere means, and to fulfil the secret
+purposes of the divine government, they are sometimes totally inefficient.
+It was the privilege of Miriam to be born an Israelite, and to have pious
+relatives; and it is our advantage to live in an age, and to be born in a
+country, blessed with the pure light of the Christian revelation. But
+religion is personal in its nature; and unless our advantages be improved,
+it is in vain that we have possessed them. Providence may give us Abraham
+for our father, and impenitence may incur perdition for our portion! It
+was to the most distinguished, and to the most boasting of the Jewish
+fraternity, that Jesus Christ afterward declared, "I know you, that ye
+have not the love of God in you."</p>
+
+<p>The conduct of Miriam, on the triumphal occasion already mentioned,
+exhibits a striking contrast to that of Michal, the daughter of Saul, when
+at a subsequent period, the ark of God was brought from the house of
+Obed-edom into the city of David. Harps, psalteries, timbrels, cornets,
+cymbals, and all kinds of musical instruments, were put in requisition
+upon that interesting day; and David disarraying himself of the dress of
+royalty, and substituting the lighter linen vestment of the priest, danced
+before the ark in a devout ecstacy. But Michal, instead of uniting in the
+shouts of universal gladness, and extolling her husband's humility and
+zeal, addressed him in this taunting language, "How glorious was the king
+of Israel to-day, who uncovered himself to-day in the eyes of the
+handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly
+uncovereth himself!" From David's vindication of his behaviour, and from
+the punishment inflicted on this inconsiderate woman, we perceive how
+little capable irreligious characters are of estimating the nature and
+value of those extraordinary acts of piety, for which eminent saints have
+been always distinguished; and how displeasing to God is their proneness
+to vilify those whom they ought rather to admire. In the present instance,
+however, Miriam inspires the song, and leads the dance, vying with the
+other sex in expressions of praise, and recognizing with equal joy an
+interposing Providence. While Moses exclaims, "I will sing unto the Lord;"
+Miriam, with no tardy zeal, utters the responsive and animating strain,
+"Sing ye to the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously, the horse and his
+rider hath he thrown into the sea."</p>
+
+<p>Union in religious exercises is conducive to holy pleasure, and no sight
+can he more gratifying than that of brethren and sisters engaging with
+heart and voice in the praises of God. Within the small circle of a single
+family, what a considerable portion of happiness--such as the world cannot
+possibly supply--is dispensed, when every heart is in tune to devotion,
+and no discordant sympathies blend with the universal feeling of pious
+delight. It resembles a young plantation, which the gentle gales of the
+south bend in the same direction--all under the same divine influence, all
+tending to the same point. But never had witnessing spirits before beheld
+such a scene on earth, as that of a <i>whole nation</i> assembled to celebrate
+the praises of Jehovah--never till the day of deliverance from the Red
+Sea, had they before listened to such acclamations as those of all the
+tribes and tongues of the thousands of Israel united in one general,
+instantaneous, and harmonious song. Now a world, which having been
+characterized by its apostacy, was marked by signs of displeasure--a world
+from which only a few notes of holy praise, a few strains of sincere
+devotion, had ascended to heaven from individual saints during the long
+course of more than <i>two thousand five hundred years</i>--seemed beginning
+to redeem its character; and rise to the dignity of serving God!</p>
+
+<p>If blessed spirits were not permitted to break silence, and mingle their
+congratulations with man, as they did when incarnate mercy descended to
+Bethlehem, who can doubt the reality of their sympathy and satisfaction,
+when the songs of Moses and Miriam were thus emulating "the song of the
+Lamb?" Faith travels onward to a future and still happier day, when
+<i>every</i> redeemed individual, from amongst men, shall be permitted to utter
+his voice in the great chorus of eternity, in which the millions of the
+human race, who have "washed their robes and made them white in the blood
+of the Lamb," shall unite with the unfallen universe in the praises of
+Heaven. By the visions of the apocalypse, we are admitted to a view of the
+employments of that celestial state, and the very prospect of it is highly
+calculated to kindle a warm devotion. How truly trifling do all the
+pursuits of time appear to the exercises and enjoyments of happy beings
+around the throne, who, elevated above this mortal sphere, behold the
+unveiled glories of God and the Lamb, and drink immortal bliss from "the
+fountain of living waters." The many angels round about the throne, and
+the living creatures and elders, whose number is ten thousand times ten
+thousand, and thousands of thousands, are represented as <i>uniting</i> in the
+same immortal song, adoring the same Lord, and celebrating the same
+redemption. It is thus--exhilarating anticipation!--the devotions of time
+will expand into the songs of eternity; thus the services of earth issue
+in the raptures of heaven!</p>
+
+<p>The course of the history of Israel at length introduces us to a very
+different, but perhaps a no less instructive scene. Miriam must not only
+be contemplated in a new, but unpleasing light. Hitherto she had been the
+coadjutor of her brother Moses, but now becomes his opponent, pursuing a
+line of conduct, in consequence of indulging a guilty passion, which
+usually produces the most deplorable effects, and which we cannot but
+lament should have been so conspicuous in this illustrious woman. The
+circumstance alluded to is recorded, with the characteristic fidelity of
+the inspired historians, in the twelfth chapter of the book of Numbers.</p>
+
+<p>"Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before
+<i>Envy?</i>" To this latter principle must be attributed the plot in which
+both Aaron and Miriam engaged to diminish the reputation of Moses. This
+was not indeed the ostensible reason, but it was their real design; and
+occasioned the severe, but just chastisement which was immediately
+inflicted. Seldom do any of the baser passions act without combining and
+blending themselves with hypocritical pretences, in order to conceal from
+view their own hateful deformity. This will be found particularly the
+case, when they prevail in persons who have acquired respectability and
+influence, and who are not given over to total blindness and hardness of
+heart. Artifice may sometimes conduce to success, but it usually betrays
+character.</p>
+
+<p>Aaron and Miriam spake <i>against</i> Moses, but not <i>to</i> him. If they had
+observed any thing objectionable in his administration of public affairs,
+it would have been candid, fair, and kind, to have taken a private
+opportunity for expostulation or inquiry. Not only was he extremely
+accessible, but they were his relatives, and in habits of daily intimacy
+and communication. They knew him well, and saw him often. Such a conduct
+would have done them honour, and although their surmises had proved
+incorrect, Moses would have applauded their ingenuousness. But, alas!
+these dear relatives, and otherwise good and great characters, had become
+envious of their brother; and acting conformably to the invariable
+meanness of such a spirit, they secretly circulated reports in the camp
+tending to disparage his excellence, for the purpose of advancing their
+own pretensions to popular estimation. Their arrogance is sufficiently
+apparent from their words, "Hath the Lord indeed spoken ONLY by Moses?
+Hath he not spoken ALSO by us!"</p>
+
+<p>Can this be <i>Aaron?</i> Can that be <i>Miriam?</i> The one the <i>brother</i>--the
+other the <i>sister</i> of Moses? Persons too, venerable for their years, and
+for their office, and only next in honour to the great legislator and
+leader of Israel? It may have comported with the ambition of a Pagan to
+exclaim, "I had rather be the first man in a village, than the second in a
+kingdom;" but is such language befitting the lips of saints and prophets
+of the true God? Was not <i>Aaron</i> the person that sought the intercession
+of his brother when he had committed idolatry? Was he not consecrated a
+high priest unto God? Was not <i>Miriam</i> his elder sister, who acted so
+conspicuous a part in his early preservation, watching his bulrush-cradle
+when exposed to the waves and the monsters of the Nile? Was it not
+<i>Miriam</i> that accompanied him in his prosperities, that hailed his
+increasing glory, that aided his triumphant songs when the Egyptian army
+was submerged in the Red Sea? and can <i>Miriam</i> be envious? Strange
+infatuation!</p>
+
+<p>But, perhaps, we are really censuring ourselves. Listen to the unbiassed
+voice of conscience. Does it not thunder in your ears, "Thou art the man?"
+Art thou insensible to its powerful and just remonstrances, "Wherein thou
+judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doeth the
+same things?" O beware of this mean, creeping, reptile spirit! Persons in
+eminent stations may, in a certain degree, expect to suffer from the wiles
+of envy: But to suffer from those of their own household, and from persons
+on whose friendship they have had the greatest reason to rely, must be
+peculiarly afflictive. If it be possible to add one drop to the bitterness
+of such a portion, it is by being envied, and consequently depreciated, by
+those who are <i>associated in the same sacred office</i>. A remark upon this
+subject cannot be misplaced, the history seems rather to claim it. A
+mortal creature cannot be invested with a more important commission than
+that of the ministry of the word. So highly did the apostle of the
+Gentiles appreciate his work, that, gifted as he was in every requisite to
+discharge it with honour and success, he exclaimed, "Unto me, who am less
+than the least of all saints, is this <i>grace</i> given, that I should preach
+amongst the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ." But if each
+heavenly ambassador be really convinced that he and his brethren are
+intrusted with an office at once so dignified in its nature, so useful in
+its design, so extensive in its duties, that no one can adequately fulfil
+for himself what would be sufficient to expend the energies of an angel;
+and that the combined exertions of all the preachers that ever have, or
+ever will, minister in holy things, cannot <i>wholly</i> occupy the sphere of
+possible usefulness, were every power of the mind, and every moment of
+time, made tributary to the service--if this were duly considered, surely
+instead of envying, depreciating, and thwarting each other, perfect love
+must prevail, and mutual assistance be incessantly rendered. The world is
+sufficiently disposed to reproach the servants of the sanctuary; they
+should not undervalue each other. Nothing can exceed, and no words can
+express, the littleness of attempting to construct our own fame upon the
+ruins of others; and when this temper exists, as it sometimes
+unquestionably does, amongst those who teach humility, it is singularly
+detestable. Ministers of the divine word should be guardians of each
+other's reputation, aware that the honour, and in some degree the success
+of it depends upon the <i>character</i> of its publishers and representatives.
+Miriam and Aaron should have been the last, while, such is human nature,
+they were the first, to envy Moses!</p>
+
+<p>Mark the origin of those depreciating reports which they contrived to put
+in circulation. They had taken some offence respecting Zipporah, his wife,
+who is called the Ethiopian woman. The precise occasion of this offence
+cannot, and need not, be ascertained. Some have supposed it was on account
+of his having married her; but as this had taken place forty years before,
+and, being perfectly legal, could have furnished no just ground of
+crimination, the probability is, that some recent occurrence, grounded
+perhaps on personal and long cherished antipathy, produced a difference.
+Some private contention might have existed; that ungovernable member, the
+tongue, had inflamed resentments; and a revengeful spirit fastened the
+blame upon Moses, whose only offence was, probably, some meek and
+pacifying word.</p>
+
+<p>But what connexion subsisted between the marriage of Moses with an
+Ethiopian woman, and the pretentious of Aaron and Miriam to an equality
+with their illustrious brother? Truly, none at all. Their conduct is a
+striking display, not only of the virulence of envy, but of the progress
+and resentful nature of anger. It always wanders from its subject, and
+ranges around for new materials upon which to operate. It possesses the
+perverse capacity of converting every thing into an element of mischief,
+of inventing circumstances and envenoming objections. It seeks to enlist
+others into its services, and to bring every thing into a confederacy
+against the peace of its object. It is limited by no bounds, and
+restrained by no considerations; it will often, like the exasperated judge
+of Israel, pull down ruin upon his own head, for the sake of destroying
+others. The present contention began about Zipporah, but it ended in Moses
+himself. It was, perhaps, at first, a common-place strife; but at length
+it assumed the shape of a settled hostility. It was but a spark, and if
+angry passions had not blown it, soon it might have gone out; imprudence
+and revenge raised and extended it into a vast conflagration.</p>
+
+<p>Family quarrels are, of all other dissentions, the most to be deprecated.
+We should be careful to prevent them, and if they occur, take effectual
+and speedy measures for their extinction. Let us not be tenacious of our
+own opinions, or determined upon practising our own plans. It becomes the
+Christian, both for his own sake and for the interest of religion, to make
+every possible sacrifice to peace. Pour the oil of gentleness upon the
+stormy billows of strife: ever remembering that "a brother offended is
+harder to be won than a strong city, and their contentions are like the
+bars of a castle."</p>
+
+<p>One expression in this narrative merits particular notice. Let the envious
+detractor tremble at the words, "the Lord heard it." It requires not the
+tone of thunder to penetrate the ear of God: his omniscience perceives the
+secret whisperings of slander, and even the inaudible and unexpressed
+surmises of a perverted mind. Moses may have been ignorant of the
+industrious malignity of his brother and Miriam, or disregardful of any
+intimations on the subject; for a person of integrity is unwilling to
+believe, without very compulsory evidence, the dishonesty of others; or,
+if it cannot be discredited, he will patiently pursue that course which
+will eventually place injured innocence in the point of complete
+vindication. In this he resembled the great Exemplar of every virtue of
+whom he was an eminent antitype, and of whom it is recorded, that "when he
+was reviled, he reviled not again, but committed himself to him that
+judgeth righteously."</p>
+
+<p>But whether <i>Moses</i> did or did not hear, or, hearing, disregarded the
+detractions of his nearest relatives, <i>God</i> observed them, and instantly
+came down to express his displeasure. The two delinquents were summoned to
+the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, with their much-injured
+brother: the glory of the Shekinah appeared, and the solemn voice of the
+divine majesty issued from the cloud of his presence. The superiority of
+Moses was proclaimed, and an unanswerable question proposed to them,
+"Wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?" As
+an indication of anger, the symbolic cloud instantly removed from the
+tabernacle; and Miriam, the most forward, and perhaps the first in this
+transgression, became "leprous, white as snow."</p>
+
+<p>Aaron was shocked at the sight, and had immediate recourse to the man he
+had before so defamed, humbly requesting him to pass over the sin they had
+perpetrated, and entreating his powerful intercession with God on behalf
+of their afflicted sister. Moses, obeying at once the impulse of humanity,
+piety, and fraternal attachment, pleaded for her restoration. He was
+graciously heard. Miriam was excluded from the camp only seven days,
+during which the journeyings of Israel were suspended, to express the
+displeasure of God at their concurrence in her transgression, and to show
+the kind intermixture of mercy with judgment in the divine proceedings.
+After this, the people removed from Hazeroth, and pitched in the
+wilderness of Paran.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 1451.]</p>
+
+<p>With this instructive story the history of Miriam closes, excepting the
+brief notice of her death at The encampment at Kadesh, where she was
+buried. Josephus relates, that after interring her with great solemnity,
+the people mourned for her a month. This occurred in the fortieth year
+after the departure from Egypt, Eusebius says, that in his time her
+sepulchre was still to be seen at Kadesh.</p>
+
+<p>Whether the imputation be true or false, that women are particularly
+addicted to the vice of slander, it cannot be deemed unsuitable to suggest
+a caution upon this subject. Character is a sacred thing, and it is
+unworthy of you to trifle with it. To sit in judgment upon others, and to
+pronounce a hasty verdict upon actions which may be carelessly
+misrepresented, or words, if not intentionally, yet heedlessly misquoted,
+without affording an opportunity to the condemned individual to speak for
+himself, is unjust in the extreme. But how many excellent persons are made
+the butt of ridicule, or tossed about as the playthings of a gossipping
+spirit, which, incapable of a direct charge, gratifies its malignity by
+infusing calumnies into the too listening ear of prejudice. An idle report
+is, by this means, magnified and circulated to an incalculable extent; or
+the infirmities of excellent characters animadverted upon, for no other
+purpose than to fill up the waste moments of a ceremonious visit. Women
+should assume their proper rank, by aspiring to the dignity of rational
+intercourse; and not degrade themselves, and disquiet society, by
+engaging in petty warfare against the reputation of others.</p>
+
+<p>Let what is termed <i>religious conversation</i> turn rather upon <i>things</i> than
+<i>persons</i>; otherwise men in public station, perhaps of equal though
+dissimilar excellence, will be in danger of undue praise or excessive
+depreciation. The favourite preacher will be unmercifully extolled, and
+the unpopular one as cruelly degraded. A clashing of opinion will be
+likely to produce rivalries, and invigorate partialities; till, probably,
+the effect of their respective labours is lost upon these fair but
+injudicious critics. Let young women, especially, take the hint, and "set
+a watch upon the door of their lips." Beware of indiscriminate censure, or
+extravagant applause. Regard the ministers of the word as the servants of
+God. Receive instruction from their lips with all humility, pray for their
+increasing wisdom, and tenderly cherish their good name. If a Moses, with
+all his excellencies, seem to you to assume, or in any respect to commit
+an error, do not be the first to publish it abroad in the camp, or to
+aggravate, by misrepresentation, a failing which is blended with such
+acknowledged worth. Remember, it is as likely that <i>you</i> should be
+mistaken in your judgment, as that <i>he</i> should be faulty in spirit or
+conduct; and that if your detractions be not visited with an outward token
+of displeasure, resembling the loathsome deformity of Miriam, which
+required a veil, they render you most unlovely in the sight of God and
+man. "The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue amongst
+our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the
+course of nature, and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beast,
+and of birds, and of serpents, and things in the sea, is tamed, and hath
+been tamed of mankind: but the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly
+evil, full of deadly poison."</p>
+
+<p>The situation of Miriam during her exclusion from the camp suggest an
+observation on the debasing nature of sin. When engaged in the exercises
+of religion, and taking the lead in the celebration of the overthrow of
+the Egyptian army by the interposing providence of God, she appears the
+glory of her sex and the ornament of her country; but from the moment she
+indulges a guilty passion, her honour is tarnished, her dignity degraded,
+and her pre-eminence lost; the moral defilement she has contracted is
+marked by an external deformity, and issues in a degrading separation.
+Miriam is deeply conscious of her guilt, and confounded at its bitter
+consequences: she feels that she is a sufferer because she was a sinner;
+and would no doubt have made any sacrifice could it have been possible to
+regain the forfeited paradise of peace and innocency. But we have here a
+specimen of the inevitable consequence of sin. It does not indeed
+generally incur immediate and temporal punishment; but it degrades the
+perpetrator of it in the eyes of God, in the opinion of others,
+(especially the wise and good,) and in his own sight: it lowers him in the
+scale of being, at once diminishing his reputation and contracting his
+means of usefulness. If the face of Miriam recovered its beauty, and the
+eyes of Israel could discern no external blemishes, it is questionable
+whether a scar would not ever after be discernible upon her character: and
+even should her indulgent friends have forgotten, and God have graciously
+forgiven her past iniquities, Miriam, as a true penitent, would scarcely
+ever forgive herself: the very consciousness of pardoning mercy would
+often renew the sensations of penitence; and moments of holy joy would
+ever after be bedewed with tears of humiliation.</p>
+
+<p>From this example it is further obvious, that the hope of escaping the
+divine displeasure on account of sin, under the notion of being the
+professed people of God, is altogether delusive; sin is detestable in the
+eyes of perfect purity <i>wherever</i> it exists, and can neither escape
+detection nor elude chastisement. Its perpetration by his own people is
+rather a reason for more signal and exemplary chastisement, than for any
+kind of exemption from it; because the motive to obedience arising from
+gratitude and other sources is proportionably stronger; and because a
+contrary proceeding would tend to disparage the divine government, by
+affording a plausible pretence to the doctrine of salvation <i>in</i> sin, and
+not <i>from</i> it. The eminence of Miriam rendered her disgrace the more
+requisite as a punishment, and the more salutary as an example: the
+leprosy in her face was a practical lesson, which every Israelite could
+not fail of understanding, and probably would not soon or easily forget.</p>
+
+<p>It is, besides, not only the necessary tendency of sin to procure its own
+punishment, but such is the appointment of God: it constitutes an
+essential part of the great system of his moral government to unite them
+together; and no mortal power can disconnect them. Sooner or later every
+transgressor must be humbled; he <i>must</i> fall--by judgment, or by
+penitence--before the sword of excision, or into the arms of mercy. Happy
+for us if external visitations produce internal prostration of spirit; if,
+instead of stiffening ourselves into resistance, we bend to the
+inflictions of parental chastisement; and if present and temporary
+sufferings excite a feeling which will supersede the necessity of future
+and more awful visitations.</p>
+
+<p>If, again, Miriam were so severely visited for speaking against <i>Moses</i>,
+how fatal will prove the consequences of resisting <i>Christ!</i> The secret
+whisperings of envy and ambition against the <i>servant</i> of God, occasioned
+a public and awful punishment: what tremendous wrath may not they expect
+who reproach or disregard his beloved <i>Son!</i> "If they escaped not, who
+refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape if we turn
+away from him that speaketh from heaven."</p>
+
+<p>This remarkable manifestation to Miriam, Aaron, and Moses, may remind us
+of that period which is hastening on the rapid wings of time, when the
+descending Judge of the universe will "come in the clouds of heaven with
+power and great glory," "the glory of the Father and all the holy angels,"
+to summon every class, and all the generations of mankind, to his
+tribunal, and pronounce their final, irreversible, everlasting doom: then,
+like Moses, his servants will be vindicated from every charge, honoured by
+witnessing celestials, admitted through the gates into the city of the New
+Jerusalem, be emparadised forever in the embraces of their God. Then, like
+Miriam and Aaron, a guilty race, which has plotted against the righteous,
+and opposed by their impenitence, if not their actual persecutions, the
+prosperity of his cause and people, will be driven, not into temporary
+exile and disgrace, but into ever-during darkness. "These shall go away
+into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal." The
+pride of Miriam was intelligibly marked upon her smitten countenance; and
+the sin of transgressors will be written by the finger of God in
+appropriate and conspicuous characters upon their immortal destinies. Thus
+will the perfections of the Deity for ever blaze in the flames of
+perdition, and irradiate the temple of glory!</p>
+
+<p>Finally, imitate the conduct of Moses, who, on this occasion, so nobly
+displayed a conduct which the Redeemer of the world thus inculcated as an
+essential part of his religion: "Pray for them that despitefully use you
+and persecute you." His intercession for Miriam, who had so cruelly
+injured him, was prompt and ardent; instead of resenting her calumnies, or
+triumphing in her merited affliction, he prayed for her recovery! Here we
+see the very spirit of the Gospel under the law! a Christian in the habit
+of a Jew! Superior to the age in which he lived, he seemed in character
+and temper to have anticipated a far distant period of evangelical
+illumination; to have caught, so to speak, by ascending the summits of
+faith and hope, some of the yet unrisen splendour of the Sun of
+Righteousness; to have been in a sense the <i>disciple</i>, as he was the most
+illustrious <i>antitype</i> of Christ, even centuries previous to his
+incarnation! The cross is indeed the centre of union and the point of
+attraction to all ages and nations. There the antediluvian and patriarchal
+saints associate with those of later times, imbibing one spirit,
+coalescing upon one principle, meeting in one sacred spot, conjoined in
+one fraternal band! The wise and the good of a former dispensation looked
+forward with anticipating pleasure to the great event, which we are
+permitted to contemplate with retrospective joy. Hail, happy hour! when we
+shall meet with all the redeemed in one glorious assembly; not as at
+present, <i>by faith</i>, on mount Calvary, but <i>in reality</i>, on mount Zion--in
+a world where the imperfections of Christians shall be removed, and their
+excellencies completed--where Miriam shall not envy Moses, nor Moses be
+exhibited in contrast with Miriam!</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="07"></a>Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter VII.</h3>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="07-1"></a>Section I.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  History of Domestic Life most instructive--Book of Ruth--Sketch of the
+  Family of Elimelech while residing in Moab--Reflections arising out of a
+  View of their Circumstances--Naomi's Resolution to return, and that of
+  her Daughters-in-law to accompany her--Orpah soon quits her Mother and
+  Sister--Her Character, and that of Ruth--Requirements of Religion--
+  Arrival of Naomi and Ruth at Bethlehem--feelings of the Former.</blockquote>
+
+<p>Domestic life furnishes the most attractive and the most instructive
+species of history. If it do not present an equal diversity of incident
+with the narratives of rising or falling empires, in whose mighty concerns
+every passion of human nature is interested, it possesses the superior
+advantage of "coming home to men's business and bosoms."</p>
+
+<p>The scene of <i>general history</i> is frequently placed in a region which, to
+the great proportion of mankind, is inaccessible; and however we may
+admire its principal actors, they seldom furnish examples capable of being
+exhibited for imitation. The sphere in which they moved is so totally
+different, so far remote from that in which our duty usually lies, that
+the knowledge of their achievements can conduce but little, to the great
+purposes of practical improvement. The story of <i>private life</i> possesses a
+very different character; we are at once introduced to our <i>own</i> sphere;
+and although it may relate to a class in society either very much inferior
+or superior in point of station to ourselves, it necessarily brings into
+review relations which we all sustain, situations we have all to occupy,
+and duties we have all to discharge. Whether, therefore, a princess or a
+peasant be the principal actor, the central point round which every
+circumstance revolves, and from which it derives interest and distinction,
+it claims and will repay our serious attention.</p>
+
+<p>Independently of these general considerations, the history of Ruth, in
+connection with that of Naomi and Orpah, has been always regarded as
+singularly interesting: it is a most pathetic tale, illustrative of the
+operation of the tenderest of the domestic affections, in unison with
+genuine religion: it exhibits the most artless simplicity of manners, the
+most virtuous sensibilities, and the most affecting interpositions of
+Providence. It is at once romantic and true, sublime and simple,
+marvellous and natural: it constitutes, moreover, a connecting link in the
+great chain of providence, and an important incident in the history of
+redemption.</p>
+
+<p>The sacred book, which derives its name from RUTH, was in all probability
+written by Samuel: this is the concurrent opinion of Jews and Christians.
+It may be considered as supplementary to the book of Judges, an
+introductory to the history of David, whose descent from Judah through
+Pharez is distinctly traced in the genealogy of Boaz.</p>
+
+<p>According to Jewish tradition, Ruth was of the royal race of Moab, a
+nation descended from Lot, and settled on the borders of the salt sea in
+the confines of Judah. She married Mahlon, the son of Elimelech, who lived
+in Moab in consequence of a famine which prevailed in Judea. After his
+death, relying on the promises made to the tribe of Judah, to which her
+husband belonged, she became a proselyte; and thus the Holy Spirit, by
+recording the adoption of a Gentile woman into that family from which the
+Messiah was to descend, might intend to intimate the comprehensive design
+of the Christian dispensation. "It must be remarked also, that in the
+estimation of the Jews it was disgraceful to David to have derived his
+birth from a Moabitess; and Shimei, in his revilings against him, is
+supposed by the Jews to have tauntingly reflected on his descent from
+Ruth. This book, therefore, contains an intrinsic proof of its own verity,
+inasmuch as it records a circumstance so little flattering to the
+sovereign of Israel [<a href="#foot19">19</a>]; and it is scarcely necessary to
+appeal to its admission into the canon of Scripture for a testimony of its
+authentic character; or to mention that the evangelists, in describing our
+Saviour's descent, follow its genealogical accounts." [<a href="#foot20">20</a>]</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 1818] This book commences with a
+statement of the calamitous situation of Israel in consequence of a
+famine, one of those messengers of divine displeasure sometimes
+commissioned to scourge a guilty land, and chastise them into obedience.
+Elimelech, a resident in Bethlehem-Judah, was compelled, probably with
+many others, to quit his beloved home, and seek a temporary subsistence in
+the country of Moab, which, although favoured at this time with the
+blessings of temporal prosperity and abundance, was destitute of those
+religious means, without which, in the view of a good man, Eden would lose
+its charms, and life its value. He took with him his wife Naomi and his
+two sons Mahlon and Chilion; and, under the guidance of that Providence
+which once tamed the lions and restrained the fires of Chaldea, found an
+asylum in the bosom of Israel's enemies.</p>
+
+<p>In this exile, a family so ancient and reputable sunk into such
+degradation excites our compassion; still more so, when in tracing their
+adventurous history, we find them assaulted by new forms of sorrow and
+calamity. Elimelech dies, and Naomi is left with her two sons. The young
+men afterward marry, the one Orpah, the other Ruth, both natives of Moab.
+It seems as though the disconsolate widow were beginning to dry up her
+tears, and to rebuild her fallen house by those matrimonial alliances
+which tended to naturalize them in the country; but whether the use of
+these idolatrous materials was displeasing to God, or whether it was
+deemed requisite to detach the mind of Naomi, by repeated afflictions,
+from a soil in which her affections were becoming too deeply rooted, her
+two sons also died in a few years, and the three females were left to
+grapple with adversity alone. The original state and character of the
+young women is uncertain, but they became proselytes to the Jewish
+religion. They might have become so previously to their union with their
+now departed husbands, whom, if the sacred narrative had been more
+detailed and minute, we might possibly have had occasion to applaud for
+their pious discrimination, rather than to censure or suspect for
+impropriety of conduct; at least, under all the circumstances, we are by
+no means justified in severe animadversions upon their choice. But,
+whatever might have been their intentions, the Supreme Disposer was
+working with a wise but mysterious secrecy, to promote his designs which
+were linked with a succession of events extending to far distant
+generations. Poor Naomi! how desolate thy condition! how deep thy
+depression! Wave after wave rolls over thy defenceless head! And yet,
+where is the human being to whom no comforts are left? Thy daughters
+remain, and even if they had been removed, thy pious spirit would not have
+sorrowed over their graves, as one that has no hope! Thy religion has
+supplied thee with sources of consolation unknown to the world, and
+indestructible by calamity, time, or death--"The eternal God is thy
+refuge," "and underneath are the everlasting arms."</p>
+
+<p>The rapid changes in this family cannot fail to remind us of the
+instability of earthly possessions and enjoyments; nor ought we to forget
+the wisdom and the goodness of that divine superintendence, which holds
+all these changes in subserviency to his will. How impressive is the
+language of inspiration, "we all do fade as a leaf;"--and how
+illustrative of the present tragical history! When the sun of summer beams
+upon the growing landscape, and, ascending some eminence, you survey the
+valleys covered over with corn, the hills adorned with verdure, the trees
+bending their abundant foliage to the gale, the flowers in "yellow meads
+of asphodel and amaranthine bowers," perfuming the air with their odours,
+you seem for a moment to inhabit regions of enchantment and perpetual
+beauty. A month or two intervenes--you reascend your former elevation,
+once more to feast the senses--to admire and adore the Dispenser of these
+blessings--but O how faded! The bright beams of the sun are shrouded in a
+wintry cloud--the corn has disappeared--the flocks retire--the trees are
+bereft of their foliage--the flowers lie scattered on the ground. Such,
+such is human life; thus we and our families fade! to-day in
+vigour--to-morrow in dust! Where are generations past? where are our
+ancestors? where our immediate predecessors? where our early associates,
+and many of the individuals that have enlivened our social hours in
+maturer life? Like the leaves which cluster on the ground in autumn, and
+almost obstruct the path of the traveller, they seem to have dropped in
+quick succession, and to lie in faded heaps on the road that leads into
+eternity. And, alas! with an indifference too nearly resembling that which
+is apparent in the unheeding passenger, who tramples autumnal foliage
+beneath his feet, we tread on the graves of departed ages, and neglect to
+imitate the example of the pious dead.</p>
+
+<p>Pause and reflect, "we <i>all</i> do fade." Whatever our circumstances or
+connections, the inevitable dominion of death extends over all. The leaves
+may occupy a higher or a lower station on the tree, they may be suspended
+on the loftiest or the lowliest branches--but they <i>all</i> drop off; and we
+may be rich or poor, learned or illiterate, young or old, the house of the
+grave is "appointed for <i>all </i> living." Providence in mercy permits the
+union of families long to remain unbroken; and, at length, in <i>mercy</i>
+too--whatever the suggestions of despondency--dissolves it. The parent
+expires, and the children follow; till, perhaps, the <i>name</i> only survives,
+like a tree bared to the storm of winter thrown down by the blast, and at
+length rotting into dust.</p>
+
+<p>Mournfully fascinating, however, and instructing as these considerations
+appear, they must not divert us longer from the narrative. Naomi, at the
+distance of ten years, cherished a constant anxiety respecting what passed
+in Israel; and, weaned by repeated trials, if not still more so by
+Moabitish idolatry, from her present situation, she heard with pleasure,
+"that the Lord had visited his people, in giving them bread:" upon which
+she determined to return, and take her two daughters-in-law with her into
+Judea. This secondary kindred often proves a source of the most unhappy
+jealousies and animosities in domestic life, but the harmony in which
+these women lived, and with which they concerted measures for their
+removal, indicated at least the goodness of all their dispositions. They
+were, besides, in equal distress. Affliction, in almost every form, is
+beneficial in its tendency; and nothing is more calculated to strengthen
+mutual attachment than common calamity.</p>
+
+<p>How often is distress, similar to this, aggravated by unkindness!
+Moroseness on the one part, and undutifulness on the other, excite the
+mother-in-law against the daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against
+the mother-in-law; whereas reason, religion, and even self-love, require a
+different conduct. The poverty of Naomi was no objection to Orpah and Ruth
+to accompany her in her departure from Moab; but at once, abandoning every
+minor or selfish consideration, they prepared to attend her unprotected
+way. They would not suffer her to drink alone of the bitter cup, but
+resolved to encourage her by sharing it.</p>
+
+<p>A bitter cup indeed it was. Who can imagine, without a painful sympathy,
+the situation of three friendless women, each a widow, and quitting a
+country where they left behind so many sad recollections! There they had
+lost the dearest of earthly connections, who, had they been preserved to
+this hour, would have soothed their sorrows, sustained their spirits, and
+accompanied their journey! The voice of parental and conjugal tenderness
+was silent in the grave! Their natural timidity had no shelter--their
+tears were wiped away by no kind hand--their steps were supported by no
+sustaining arm--the world was a barren wilderness before them--they seemed
+to be alone, as after a ship-wreck--and they had no immediate refuge but
+in themselves, and--for there was still another hope, an observant friend,
+a helper to the needy in his distress--in GOD!</p>
+
+<p>Having proceeded a short distance, Naomi, overwhelmed with a sense of the
+disinterested kindness of her daughters-in-law, even more than with her
+own affliction, begged them to leave her, and return to their respective
+homes. She adverts to their past amiable and affectionate conduct; and
+severe as parting would prove to her maternal heart, she wished them still
+to be happy in the Sand of their nativity. Commending them to the
+benediction of the God of Israel, and expressing her desire for their
+happiness in the formation of future connections, "she kissed them" in
+token of a long and last farewell.</p>
+
+<p>What fondness and what agony blended in that embrace! What a separation!
+It was no moment for words; the lovely daughters could only weep! A
+thousand past endearments recurred to their memory, a thousand
+uncertainties springing from the bosom of futurity, presented themselves
+to their minds. They had cherished a mutual esteem--they were blended
+into one in feeling, in interest, in all that can render life desirable.
+Their dark path had hitherto been enlightened by the beam of
+affection;--and was the sun to set upon their day for ever?</p>
+
+<p>Alas! what a land of mourning is this! what heart-rending separations are
+we called to experience on earth; and what an hour of parting from the
+tenderest of connexions will soon arrive, when, death interposing his
+authority to break the ties of nature and of friendship, we must bid adieu
+to those who would indeed gladly accompany us, but <i>must</i> survive to walk
+alone in the wilderness.</p>
+
+<p>We are, however, attributing too much to this formidable power. He may
+break the ties of nature--but he cannot dissolve the union of <i>Christian</i>
+friendship. The pious shall meet again in a region uninfested by
+malignity, and where the long annals of everlasting ages shall record no
+day of separation, and no instance of death.</p>
+
+<p>It was kind, it was disinterested, it was maternal, in Naomi to propose
+this parting; but they were not to be persuaded. As soon as tears
+permitted utterance, they exclaimed, "Surely we will return with <i>thee</i>
+unto <i>thy</i> people."--"We have taken our resolution, and cannot depart
+from it. To go <i>with</i> thee is indeed a trial--but to go <i>from</i> thee is
+incalculably worse. Thou shall not be forsaken. We will be inseparable."
+Naomi remonstrated, and kindly repeated her commands. She called them
+<i>daughters</i>, an appellation they had well merited by their ardent and
+unabated attachment, earnestly entreating them to "turn again; and"
+intimating that they could not reasonably entertain a hope of her having
+sons whom they might marry, and therefore they could not accompany her
+without detriment to themselves. She was afflicted at the idea of their
+being widows in the days of their youth; and especially that, for her
+sake, they should continue in so solitary a condition, voluntarily
+resigning to her comfort the joys of connubial love.</p>
+
+<p>Again they wept--but from this moment, Orpah and Ruth take a different
+course. The former fails in her resolution, embraces her mother-in-law,
+and returns; the latter "cleaves to her," and remains the solitary example
+of unconquerable affection, the heroine of the future narrative.</p>
+
+<p>In the character of Orpah, we perceive an exemplification of that
+imperfect obedience which characterizes those who have been induced to pay
+some degree of attention to the gospel of Christ, but who have been
+influenced by certain subordinate motives to retrace their steps. She
+contemplated future poverty with alarm, and cannot be exculpated from a
+charge of secretly preferring the service of Chemosh, the Moabitish god,
+to the service of Jehovah. Her affection for Naomi had, perhaps, induced
+her hitherto to dissemble; and though she persevered to a considerable
+extent, when the final resolution was to be taken, she paused--hesitated
+--trembled--and drew back. She could not part with <i>all</i> for this
+service. In the days of Christ, many treated him with respect, listened to
+his words, admired, and like the young ruler, even wished to become his
+follower, but excited the best hopes only to disappoint them. Happy,
+thrice happy, they who take up the cross, and follow him through much
+tribulation; nobly resisting the allurements of the world, the demands of
+earthly friendship, and even the interdictions of human authority, for the
+sake of Christ and his gospel! The martyr's <i>crown</i> awaits them, for
+they display the martyr's <i>spirit</i>.</p>
+
+<p>At a superficial glance, the address of Naomi to Ruth, upon this occasion,
+seems altogether extraordinary; "Behold, thy sister-in-law is gone back
+unto her people, and unto her gods; return thou after thy sister-in-law."
+Did she then really wish to urge this young widow to imitate the conduct
+of her sister, not only in returning to her relations, but to the service
+of the gods of Moab? Whatever opinion she entertained of her
+daughter-in-law's piety, could she really be desirous of placing her in
+circumstances of such temptation and danger? This supposition would be at
+least uncharitable, and contradicts probability. It was rather a trial of
+her sincerity in religion, and an evidence of her determination to use no
+compulsory measures, not even maternal influence, to coerce her
+conscience. Her language was, besides, premonitory and warning, similar to
+the permission given to Balaam, who though apparently admonished to go and
+curse Israel, was really interdicted.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth received the appeal in a manner worthy of her character, and the
+most satisfactory to Naomi. "Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return
+from following after thee; for whither thou goest I will go, and where
+thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my
+God. Where thou diest will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do
+so to me and more also, if aught but death part thee and me." If the pious
+origin of this attachment were not sufficiently apparent, we should be
+tempted to call it romantic; but founded as it was in religion, we must
+contemplate it as a rare specimen of a perfection in friendship, scarcely
+ever attained in the cold and chilling atmosphere of this world. Nothing
+could have so ripened and matured it, but the beamings of heavenly love,
+which rendered even an unfriendly soil productive of so choice a fruit.</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding the indigent circumstances of Naomi, her daughter-in-law
+persisted in accompanying her, and thus voluntarily chose affliction with
+the people of God in preference to hereditary affluence and distinction.
+With deliberate resolution, and persevering consistency, she adhered to
+her purpose, calculating upon all the inconveniences that might result,
+but not fearing them. She turned her back upon the glory of the world,
+neither dreading its frowns nor soliciting its patronage. She knew that
+she could live happily without human applause, but not without divine
+approbation. Her early prejudices were subdued by principle, and she felt
+no hesitation in discarding the gods of Moab to procure the love of the
+God of Israel. In fact she <i>did</i> choose the path of true honour and
+renown. The servant of God is the greatest character in the universe, and
+will eventually be exalted to a situation which will fully and for ever
+disclose the perfect nothingness of terrestrial glory, and the shadowy
+nature of all that mortals have been deluded to imagine substantial.</p>
+
+<p>This part of the history may serve to suggest the beneficial inquiry,
+whether we habitually cherish an equal zeal for our religion, with that
+which this young Moabitess manifested? It would be easy to descant upon
+the superiority of our advantages, and to urge our increased
+responsibility; but do we equal her in the firmness of our faith, and the
+steadfastness of our profession? It may not be a question, whether we are
+likely to be called to similar or equal trials; but the most important
+consideration is, whether through the grace of God we stand prepared for
+<i>whatever</i> trials await us in the path of duty; and whether, with fewer
+difficulties and greater advantages, we at least display an equal decision
+of character? We have Sabbaths--do we keep them? We have Bibles--do we
+read them? We have religious and social opportunities--do we improve
+them? We have pious friends--do we, like Ruth, cleave to them? Do we come
+out from the world, and are we separate, saying to the church of Christ,
+and adhering to our purpose, "We will go with you, for we have heard that
+God is with you?" Association is a test of character. The companion
+exhibits the man.</p>
+
+<p>Candour and sincerity may be recommended from this example, as the best
+policy. We should not be ashamed of our religion: an open avowal, like
+that of Ruth, which prevented any farther importunity to return to the
+idolatries of Moab, is calculated to prevent a thousand perplexities into
+which the wavering, the timid, and the dissembling, inevitably fall.
+Persons of this description fail in every respect. They dissatisfy both
+parties, sacrifice their own peace of mind, and incur all the pains,
+without securing any of the pleasures of genuine piety. Hesitating
+between a sense of duty and an inclination to sin, trembling amidst
+conflicting attractions and opposing interests, they never attain to
+dignity of character or repose of spirit. They lie at the mercy of every
+foe, of every passion, of every change. Without the pilotage of principle,
+they know not what course to take, and are every moment in danger of a
+fatal wreck. "He that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the
+wind and tossed! ... A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways."</p>
+
+<p>It is unquestionably a duty devolving on all who believe in Christ, to
+"confess him;" and to this candid avowal he has himself attached, not only
+the purest felicities on earth, but the honour of a public acknowledgment
+of their persons and services before assembled ages in the day of
+judgment, together with a final admission into the paradise of his
+presence. It is indeed criminal to profess attachment to him when we do
+not feel it, and it is also highly improper to cherish such an attachment
+without daring to avow it. If the former must be characterized as
+hypocrisy, the latter cannot be exculpated from the charge of sinful
+timidity; if the one be presumptuous boldness, the other is unholy fear.</p>
+
+<p>To avow our principles, on all suitable occasions, with unshrinking
+firmness, is essential to integrity, and distinctly claimed by religion.
+The worldly motives which influenced some of the chief rulers in the days
+of our Lord, if not to disavow, at least to withhold their public
+concurrence with his doctrines, are mentioned in the gospel to their
+everlasting dishonour. They are not exhibited as specimens of violent
+hostility, but of that spirit of neutrality which resulted from political
+feelings, and which, being no less deemed a real enmity, will receive its
+appropriate condemnation. "Nevertheless, among the chief rulers also many
+believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him,
+lest they should be put out of the synagogue. For they loved the praise of
+men more than the praise of God."</p>
+
+<p>This kind of preference seems to be the result of strange infatuation, the
+origin of which demands a serious inquiry. In part, it may be accounted
+for from the impression which sensible and near objects produce on the
+mind, in comparison with those which are less obvious and more distant.
+Visible things attract attention, while those which are invisible, being
+placed beyond the sphere of sense, remain unnoticed. An object which is
+really greater, appears less when it is more remote. Eternity seems, in
+human estimation, extremely distant; its crown of glory afar off; all the
+possessions of the New Jerusalem disappear from view, when covered with
+the mists of futurity. We are easily affected by loud applauses, gay
+scenes, and temporal good. The secret whispers of an approving conscience
+are less audible, the smiles of God less perceptible to a depraved and
+earthly mind. In addition to which, temporal inconveniences or dangers are
+frequently connected with a conduct which secures the approbation of God;
+a criminal apprehension of which produces indifference and distaste for
+religion. When the choice lies between shame, poverty, affliction, the
+sacrifice of worldly interest, and even death itself in the one
+balance--and temporal distinction, affluence, ease, advancement, in the
+other--many will hesitate, with Agrippa, few determine, with Moses. In the
+present history one was taken, the other left. The experiment has been
+since sufficiently tried upon a large scale, and proofs are perpetually
+accumulating, that the temper and conduct of Orpah were coincident with
+those of the great majority in the world.</p>
+
+<p>The narrative of the journey to the place of Naomi's early residence, is
+comprised in one short sentence; "So they two went until they came to
+Bethlehem." We are left in ignorance of those circumstances which
+curiosity would wish to explore in so remarkable a removal. Who can doubt,
+that in a distance of at least one hundred and twenty miles over mountains
+and rivers, these female travellers, unprotected, friendless, on foot, and
+seeking day by day a precarious assistance from the wild luxuriancy of
+nature, or the occasional hospitality of the stranger, must have
+encountered repeated perils, and often deemed themselves irretrievably
+lost. But there was an eye that watched them, of whose observance they
+were not ignorant; an arm that protected them, on whose powerful support
+they leaned by faith, and leaned not in vain. <i>He</i> can never be destitute
+who has <i>God</i> for his father; <i>he</i> can never be lost, in whatever region
+he wanders, who has <i>God</i> for his guide! In the adventurous journey of
+life take his proffered aid, ye children of adversity! repose in his
+goodness, having committed your way to him, ye widowed mourners! while God
+is on his throne, ye cannot inhabit a fatherless world, ye cannot be
+destitute of efficient aid! "A Father of the fatherless, and a Judge of
+the widows, is God in his holy habitation."</p>
+
+<p>In a small town, like Bethlehem, the arrival of these strangers would
+naturally awaken inquiry. After an absence of ten years, the inhabitants
+probably never expected to see Naomi again. Such is the vicissitude of
+human affairs, that within a few years many strange mutations occur, even
+in places of no great extent. Of her former friends or acquaintances, some
+were, no doubt, consigned to the grave; and her own appearance and
+circumstances were so altered since her departure, that the voice of
+friendship, the congratulation of love, seems to have subsided into the
+idle language of wonderment, "Is this Naomi?"</p>
+
+<p><i>It is</i>--but the mention of her name is a caustic to the wounds of her
+heart. The endearments attached to that beloved and significant
+appellation are fled with departed time, and Bethlehem no longer beholds
+her in a situation to command respect, to excite envy, or to purchase
+attention. Her husband, her children, are no more!--one, one only comfort
+remains--one friend, one solace in adversity--one ray of light in the dark
+hour! Amidst universal desertion, RUTH has not forsaken her; but is become
+her joy in sorrow, her companion in solitude, her prop in decrepit age!
+Can we wonder that she wishes to discard a name which awakened such
+recollections, and only recalled the <i>dream</i> of happiness? "Call me not
+<i>Naomi</i>,--call me <i>Mara</i>; for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with
+me. I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty; why
+then call ye me <i>Naomi</i>, seeing the Lord hath testified against me, and
+the Almighty hath afflicted me?"</p>
+
+<p>There is something in these words which charity requires us to excuse. If,
+under the peculiar circumstances in which she was at present placed, the
+name of NAOMI, which signifies <i>pleasant</i>, distracted her, and she wished
+rather to adopt that of Mara, importing <i>bitterness</i>, her impatience must
+not be interpreted in the worst sense. After long absence, it is natural
+to anticipate a return home, and a rush of joy pervades even unfeeling
+minds, when the spire of their native <i>village</i>, the smoke of their native
+<i>hamlet</i>, especially the roof of their native <i>cottage</i>, first strikes
+upon the sight. Friends, family, neighbours, early scenes and pleasures,
+recur with a force which gives the air of enchantment to the long-lost
+scene. But every feeling of this nature was, in the case of Naomi,
+checked by different associations; the darkness of the sepulchre converted
+this day into midnight, and this lovely spot into a desolate wilderness!</p>
+
+<p>There is, moreover, something in Naomi's remonstrance, which sympathy
+would lead as to pity, and experience, in some degree, to blame. She
+commits an evident mistake in attributing the dispensations she had
+suffered, to a <i>testimony against her</i> on the part of the supreme
+Disposer. Viewing past events through the discolouring medium of present
+affliction, and incapable of perceiving their secret and concurrent
+design, she forms a conclusion, which is rather the effect of temporary
+depression of mind, than of a settled conviction of judgment. We cannot
+doubt, indeed that the impression was evanescent; but it seems allied to
+that of the impatient patriarch, who exclaimed, "All these things are
+against me." <i>That</i> eminent servant of God enjoyed the privilege of living
+to a period in which the divine purposes were fully developed, and of
+seeing that what he deemed hostile circumstances, were really conducive to
+the most wise and felicitous results. Had Jacob departed during the
+interval, and while the mysterious plan was yet unaccomplished, his grey
+hairs would have gone down with sorrow to the grave, and the cloud of
+mystery would have been suspended over his dying hour. Such is the usual
+lot of the righteous. Life, in general, does not afford a space
+sufficiently ample, a period sufficiently protracted, for the complete
+execution of the great purposes of Infinite Goodness with regard to our
+real interests; and we murmur, because we cannot penetrate his
+arrangements. Patience, however, should be supported by the consideration
+that either in this, or in a future state of existence, the day of
+satisfactory explanation will arrive.</p>
+
+<p>But there is a sentiment pervading the whole of this appeal, which,
+notwithstanding its partial defects, piety must warmly approve. Every
+thing is imputed to "the Lord." Naomi sees his hand in whatever occurrence
+she has witnessed. To him she imputes the fulness of her prosperity, and
+the emptiness of her adversity. In <i>every</i> change, in <i>every</i> place, she
+beholds and bows, to the ALMIGHTY. When this is happily the prevailing
+sentiment, the storm of angry passions will soon subside, the murmurings
+of discontent cease, and the clear shining of comfort break forth from
+behind the cloud.</p>
+
+<p>"The Lord God omnipotent reigneth." This is enough! Angels and blessed
+spirits shall not monopolize the strain of gratitude and acknowledgment.
+Mortal voices shall join immortal harps, saying, "HALLELUJAH!"</p>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="07-2"></a>Section II.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Time of the Return to Bethlehem--Ruth offers to go and
+  glean--Dispositions indicated by this proposal--she happens upon the
+  Field of Boaz--his Kindness--their Conversation--additional
+  Favours--Ruth's return Home--Her Mother-in-law's wish to connect her in
+  Marriage with Boaz--the Measures she suggests, and which her daughter
+  adopts with ultimate Success--their Marriage--Birth of a
+  Son--concluding Remarks,</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>Tales of fictitious wo, and of splendid distress, may alone be capable of
+fascinating those who recline on the lap of luxury, and who seek
+amusement, without soliciting instruction; but, among persons who possess
+any taste for genuine simplicity, any delight in the sacred employment of
+tracing the operations of infinite wisdom in the works of Providence, any
+desire for their own mental and spiritual improvement, and who have not
+yet learned of dissipated folly to despise</p>
+
+<blockquote>  "The short and simple annals of the poor;"</blockquote>
+
+<p>the remaining circumstances of the narrative introduced into the preceding
+chapter, cannot fail of exciting interest.</p>
+
+<p>That God, who promised Noah, that "while the earth remaineth, seed-time
+and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night,
+shall not cease;" and who "visits the earth and waters it, greatly
+enriching it with the river of God which is full of water, and prepares
+them corn when he has so provided for it;" having at this period dispensed
+fertility to the fields of Bethlehem, the humble travellers from Moab
+chose, or rather, were appointed by a superior influence to return in the
+season of barley-harvest. This was probably at the commencement of the
+month of May. [<a href="#foot21">21</a>]</p>
+
+<p>But whither shall the wretched fugitives turn for assistance and support?
+It was indeed a time of plenty, but they were in extreme poverty. Golden
+harvests waved around them, but having no fields to reap, they were
+sorrowful amidst universal gladness, and depended upon precarious means of
+subsistence.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth proposed to her mother-in-law to allow her to go and glean in any
+field where she could obtain the permission of the proprietor; to which
+Naomi readily consented. <i>As</i> a Moabite, she was probably ignorant, that
+what she regarded as a <i>favour</i>, was bestowed upon the needy as a <i>right</i>
+by the God of Israel. "When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field,
+and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shall not go again to fetch it:
+it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow; that
+the Lord thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands." This law
+is more than once repeated, and Ruth had a peculiar claim upon the
+liberality of its provisions, as uniting all the three species of
+wretchedness in her individual case. She was indeed a <i>stranger</i>, an
+<i>orphan</i>, and a <i>widow</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The proposal of Ruth upon this occasion is, in many respects, illustrative
+of her estimable character. It furnishes a specimen of that <i>respectful
+treatment</i> which is due from the younger relative, to those whom venerable
+age and long experience have rendered their superiors. She would do
+nothing without Naomi; but consults her wishes, and seeks her concurrence
+in attempting to procure subsistence by means which she deemed the best
+adapted to their present poverty. A churlish temper would have submitted
+with extreme reluctance, and many taunting reproaches to what might easily
+have been represented as the drudgery and degradation of the gleaner's
+field; but this excellent daughter-in-law displayed a spirit most worthy
+of imitation.</p>
+
+<p>Her <i>reflecting kindness</i> may be recommended to the notice of the
+inconsiderate and unfeeling. Offering herself to the laborious but
+necessary service, she is far from hinting any wish that Naomi should
+either accompany her to the field, or take measures to spare her, by
+seeking the aid of her richer relations, or the casual contributions of
+others. She wished to extend her support to the wearied and decaying
+nature of her beloved relative, and to use every possible exertion to
+alleviate her anxieties, to minister to her comfort, and to assist her
+infirmity. "Let <i>me</i> now go to the field." Amiable, generous, kindhearted
+woman! Thou wert anxious to procure for thy poor, afflicted, aged mother,
+all the repose which her advanced life seemed to require, to wipe away the
+tear from her dimmed eye and farrowed cheek, and as far as possible, to
+dissipate the clouds that hovered about the setting beam of her earthly
+existence!</p>
+
+<p>If there be one scene of domestic life pre-eminently attractive, it is
+that of a lovely daughter manifesting a promptitude and zeal to alleviate
+the sorrows, and to aid the weekness of a parent, by those nameless and
+numberless assiduities which bespeak a genuine affection. Her own works
+praise her, and the mere flatterer's tongue is awed into respectful
+silence. How deplorable is it to witness the impatience of some young
+persons who think every little exertion an insufferable effort, a trouble,
+and a fatigue; and who forget the maternal fondness which cherished their
+infancy, the wakefulness that guarded their sickness, the love that
+never slept.</p>
+
+<p>As Ruth was characterized by a virtuous sensibility, the proposal she made
+distinguished her also as <i>active and industrious</i>. Although her
+mother-in-law was advanced in years, she being in the vigour of her days,
+determined to devote her health and strength to procure subsistence. She
+did not waste her time in complaining, or sit down in a state of inactive
+despondency; but was alive to the duties of her lowly station. The poorest
+individual, who cheerfully fulfils his obligations, and exerts himself by
+an honest industry to maintain himself and his family, is inexpressibly
+more respectable in a wise man's estimation, than pampered luxury lolling
+on the couch of indulgence, and dreaming away existence in slothfulness
+and pomp. Real worth unquestionably consists in the proper occupation of
+that sphere, whatever it may be, which Providence has assigned us: and
+that person who is "not slothful in business," but "fervent in spirit,
+serving the Lord," secures the esteem of the good, and what is infinitely
+more important, the approbation of God. Idleness is no less a perversion
+of the designs of nature, than detrimental to our personal happiness. It
+not only renders its unhappy devotees useless to society, but burthensome
+to themselves. All beings, through every gradation of existence, from the
+toiling emmet to the flaming angel, are formed for activity and exertion.
+Nor ought we, who are privileged to live under the Christian dispensation,
+to forget, that Jesus Christ himself, by his humble appearance and lowly
+occupation, as the Son of a carpenter, has elevated honest industry to a
+just and honourable distinction.</p>
+
+<p>Accidentally, so far as related to herself, Ruth went and gleaned in the
+field of Boaz; but she was guided by an invisible hand. This proprietor
+was a man of great opulence, and a relative of Naomi. Coming from
+Bethlehem to his reapers, and having exchanged their mutual salutations
+according to the pious custom of the times, [<a href="#foot22">22</a>] he inquired of
+the superintendent, or steward, the name of the young woman he observed
+gleaning amongst the sheaves. Ruth, it appears, attracted his particular
+notice. Even a superficial reader might be struck with the astonishing
+providential coincidences in this story; and nothing but the most perverse
+infidelity can refuse to admit, that the God who had conducted this
+interesting widow from Moab to Bethlehem, and from Bethlehem into the
+field of the reapers, guided the steps and awakened the solicitude of Boaz
+on this occasion.</p>
+
+<p>"And the servant that was set over the reapers answered and said, It is
+the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab.
+And she said, I pray you let me glean and gather after the reapers among
+the sheaves; so she came, and hath continued even from the morning until
+now, that she tarried a little in the house." The rich are frequently
+reluctant to acknowledge their poor connections, and in the great majority
+of instances, a discovery like this would rather have averted than
+conciliated the regards of an affluent proprietor from the humble
+individual he found to be the daughter-in-law of his indigent relative.
+Superior, however, to unwarrantable prejudices and ridiculous vanity, Boaz
+listened to the tale and immediately addressed her in affectionate terms.
+It is by no means improbable, that a blush of shame crimsoned his cheek,
+from the recollection of his past negligence in suffering Naomi to pine
+away in solitary sadness and penury, when it was in his power to have
+afforded her relief. Reasons <i>might</i> have existed to justify this delay,
+though they must have been very imperious to furnish even a plausible
+pretence for such indifference; but the best construction we can put upon
+his conduct is to suppose, that, like many worthy and benevolent men, he
+was dilatory in the execution of measures which he might have planned to
+discover and relieve the necessities of his kindred. The law of love was
+in his heart; he hastened to make reparation, and kindly enjoined her to
+glean in no other field, to keep fast by his own female servants, and to
+drink whenever she chose out of the vessels which were replenished from
+time to time for his reapers. He further issued orders to the young men
+employed in his service, to show every kindness, and to observe the utmost
+decorum towards her, upon pain of his displeasure.</p>
+
+<p>It is observable, that Boaz addressed her by the tender epithet of
+<i>daughter</i>, adopting the language while he displayed the affection of a
+parental protector. Ruth had forsaken every Moabitish friend and relative,
+to share the fortunes of Naomi. Her birth-place, her home, her
+connections, all were relinquished for the privileges of her new
+relationship and adopted country, although to her eye nothing was
+presented but poverty and want. But her loss was gain; in Naomi she found
+a mother--in Boaz a father--in Bethlehem a home--in Judaism the religion
+of heaven, and the way to God. And shall they be eventually losers, who
+forsake all things for Christ and his gospel? Listen, ye youthful readers
+of either sex, and be wise--"Every one that hath forsaken houses, or
+brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or
+lands, for my name's sake, shall receive a hundred-fold, and shall inherit
+everlasting life."</p>
+
+<p>The reply of Ruth is singularly expressive of her characteristic modesty,
+humility, and goodness, The wealthy proprietor of the field had
+unexpectedly discovered in one word the history of this stranger: but she
+was wholly ignorant of the string that had been touched, and with
+artlessness replies, "Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou
+shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?" This is equally
+the language of astonishment and gratitude. Little did she imagine the
+mighty consequences of this casual interview, or the real origin of this
+extraordinary kindness. Her susceptible and affectionate heart would have
+acknowledged the <i>smallest</i> favour, while some, and unhappily too often,
+the most dependent and the most indulged of the children of indigence seem
+scarcely thankful for the <i>greatest</i> obligations. It ought not to prevent
+our charity, but it may well excite our surprise, to find that needy
+persons are sometimes disposed to claim as a right what is bestowed as
+a boon.</p>
+
+<p>Boaz intimated that the principal circumstances of her past life had come
+to his knowledge, and conveyed the most delicate commendation into her
+modest ear. He said, that he was aware of her whole behaviour to Naomi,
+with the sacrifice she had made of her native land and connections, and
+pronounced upon her an affectionate, solemn, and pious benediction: "The
+Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God
+of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust." To the same refuge
+from painful convictions and impending judgments may every reader
+instantly repair, embracing, by a devout faith, that glorious Light of the
+world, and Saviour of men, who was prefigured, in all the splendours of
+his love, by that miraculous brightness which shone between the wings of
+the cherubim in the ancient temple, and pointed the Jewish worshipper to
+"God manifest in the flesh."</p>
+
+<p>Virtually disclaiming the praise which the opulent stranger had conferred,
+and far from imagining that she deserved, or had reason to expect any
+reward of God for conduct which she considered as no other than what a
+proper sense of duty demanded, Ruth thought herself honoured in the notice
+which she had received, respectfully acknowledged the condescension, and
+solicited its continuance. "Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for
+that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto
+thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens." Boaz
+repeats every kind assurance, invites her to share the rural repast, to
+"eat of the bread, and dip her morsel in the vinegar;" and with his own
+hand plentifully supplies her with "parched corn."</p>
+
+<p>The sentiments of this excellent woman for the comparatively trifling
+kindness of her kinsman, may serve to reprove our cold returns, our
+disproportionate gratitude to the Supreme Benefactor, who daily loads us
+with temporal benefits, and constantly replenishes the cup of spiritual
+blessing; he, indeed, "comforts us;" in his word he "speaks friendly to
+us;" and we have, individually, abundant reason to confess, "I am not
+worthy of the least of all the mercies and of all the truth which the Lord
+has showed unto his servant."</p>
+
+<p>The rural repast being ended, and Ruth having withdrawn into the field to
+pursue the humble labour of gleaning, which necessity and affection for an
+aged parent alike concurred to prompt, Boaz enjoined his reapers not only
+to allow her to glean, and to glean among the sheaves, but to "let fall
+some of the handfuls on purpose for her, and leave them that she may glean
+them, and rebuke her not." Her real thankfulness and amiable diffidence
+procured her these additional favours, and seem to have inspired the noble
+benefactor with a feeling which was afterward matured into love and
+consolidated in marriage. Let the poor beware of that cold indifference in
+the reception of benefits which freezes up the stream of benevolence, and
+chills the heart of the most liberal friend; let them equally avoid that
+forwardness which seems to demand, rather than to solicit kindness. Boaz,
+on this occasion, enjoyed a Double feast; with condescending familiarity
+he partook the frugal meal with his labourers, encouraging them by his
+presence and piety; with pleasure he fed the hungry stranger, cheerfully
+dispensing a portion of what he thankfully received from the Lord of all,
+whose bounty had enriched his possessions, and thus enjoying the luxury of
+doing good: this was indeed to his benevolent spirit, a feast which all
+the wealth of a Croesus could not otherwise have procured.</p>
+
+<p>Boaz may be exhibited as a specimen of that prudential charity which
+should always regulate our distributions. He might have supplied Ruth at
+once from his ample repository of grain, or from the sheaves of the golden
+harvest; but he chose, on the contrary, to encourage her industry, though
+he kindly mitigated her toil. Indiscriminate gifts may rather favour
+idleness than relieve necessity; and it is as much a duty to see to the
+mode of distributing help to the needy, as to render them the requisite
+aid: besides which, the poor are more likely to value and to use properly
+what has been industriously acquired, than what is lavishly, however, as
+to its principle, benevolently communicated. Alleviate the toil of the
+necessitous, but do not prevent their useful employment of time and means.
+Industry is the law of the universe; and the Supreme Disposer of human
+affairs has appointed that "in the sweat of his face man should eat bread
+till he return unto the ground."</p>
+
+<p>To Ruth this was one of the happiest evenings of a life which had been
+chequered with vicissitude, and of late particularly beclouded with,
+sorrow. How different were the feelings with which she returned to the
+cottage of her mother-in-law from those which afflicted her bosom when she
+quitted it in the early part of this memorable day.</p>
+
+<p>Distressed and friendless she had gone forth; "not knowing whither she
+went," anxious only to procure some scanty subsistence for the day to
+satisfy the cravings of appetite, and to sustain the weakness of her dear
+and aged relative; but she returned laden with the spoils of the harvest
+field, an ephah of barley; she had been noticed by a very liberal
+proprietor of the soil, and invited to continue gleaning in his field.
+With what heartfelt satisfaction did she present the fruits of her
+first-day's exertion at the feet of Naomi, and sit down to share that kind
+of comfort to which Solomon has so strikingly alluded--"Better is a dinner
+of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox, and hatred therewith."</p>
+
+<p>What family in Bethlehem was so truly blessed as these two poor women?
+Where, in the whole city, was concentrated so many sweet enjoyments, so
+many pure unsophisticated pleasures as met beneath this dwelling? Who
+would not rather turn into that lowly door, and listen to the inspired
+record of the conversation which took place between, its pious inmates,
+than hear the music which shakes the lordly roof, or witness the unmeaning
+gayety that riots in its apartments?--The good matron inquired where she
+had been gleaning; and seeing the ample supply she had procured, eagerly
+demanded where she had wrought: but unable, in the exultation and
+overflowings of her gratitude to wait for an answer, she pours forth her
+benedictions upon the unknown benefactor: "Blessed be he that did take
+knowledge of thee!" Her daughter informed her it was BOAZ; a name welcome
+to her ear, and calculated to kindle a hope in a bosom long filled with
+distracting griefs: she was reminded of former favours: she remembered his
+constant friendship to her family, and uttered an instantaneous
+supplication to Heaven for blessings upon his head. Unable herself to
+requite his kindness, she well knew who could recompense it, and
+therefore prayed, "Blessed be he of the Lord, who hath not left off his
+kindness to the living and to the dead!"</p>
+
+<p>Such is the commerce between the benevolent rich and the pious poor; the
+former bestows subsistence, the latter blessings. How miserable, how
+<i>deservedly</i> miserable is an incommunicative selfishness! Happy the man
+who can say with Job, "When the ear heard me then it blessed me; and when
+the eye saw me it gave witness to me: because I delivered the poor that
+cried, and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him. The blessing
+of him that was ready to perish came upon me, and I caused the widow's
+heart to sing for joy. I was a father to the poor."</p>
+
+<p>With what astonishment must Ruth have heard, "The man is near of kin unto
+us, one of our next kinsmen!" but she did not arrogantly assume her right
+to what she had received, or, presuming upon the dignity of her
+relationship, propose to make immediate application for that support which
+he was so well able to afford: this would have been the first thought of an
+ordinary or a selfish mind. On the contrary, she expatiates, with a
+satisfaction which heartfelt gratitude and pre-eminent goodness alone
+could have inspired, upon the marked attention of Boaz--"He said unto me
+also, Thou shall keep fast by my young men until they have ended all my
+harvest." Naomi advised her to accept this bounty, lest, by gleaning in
+any other field she might seem to undervalue the permission, or to cherish
+an offensive dependency of spirit. With her characteristic meekness, Ruth
+assented, continuing to pursue her mean occupation during the weeks of
+harvest, and returning every evening to share with Naomi her humble cot
+and her scanty fare.</p>
+
+<p>During all this time, the mind of the affectionate mother-in-law was
+meditating a plan to promote the future happiness of her daughter. Past
+the period of marriage herself, she knew that Ruth might yet adorn, as
+well as obtain an accession of comfort from such a connection. If the
+young woman were satisfied with her obscurity, and content to provide a
+precarious subsistence for herself and her venerable relative by the
+labour of her hands, Naomi was superior to that selfishness which would
+rather have aimed to retain her in perpetual subserviency to her
+convenience, than seek to augment her joys, advance her interests, and
+raise her to her proper sphere of usefulness. Having made every possible
+sacrifice to her and her religion, she deemed it the part of maternal
+kindness to avail herself of the existing laws respecting matrimony, to
+connect her with the noble minded Boaz. This solicitude she took the first
+opportunity of expressing, and directed her to measures, which, if they
+appear extraordinary to us, might not have been unseemly or unusual at
+that period and in that country. A few years are sufficient to operate a
+complete revolution in existing customs; it cannot therefore be
+surprising, that the manners of another quarter of the globe, at the
+distance of more than thirty centuries, should essentially differ from our
+own. To judge of their propriety by our standard is manifestly absurd; and
+to make great allowances for the state of society is, in cases of extreme
+variation, obviously necessary. After all, the conduct of Naomi may not be
+capable of entire vindication; though we are certain it proceeded from a
+sentiment of pure affection, and was connected with important results in
+the order of Providence: it is, moreover, recorded without the slightest
+hint of disapprobation.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth was directed by her mother-in-law to repair with the utmost secrecy
+to the threshing-floor; and, when Boaz, conformably to the simple manners
+of the age, retired to rest among the heaps of corn, to place herself at
+his feet. When be spoke, she was to answer frankly, and await the
+intimation of his will. She did so: Boaz made the inquiry, and promised
+all that a sense of her virtues and a knowledge of her rights dictated.
+The law authorized the present application on her part at the instigation
+of Naomi, in order that the possessions of the family might not be
+alienated. Kinsmen were required to intermarry, and in case of refusal the
+near relative was treated with the utmost public indignity. Boaz perfectly
+understood this legal claim; and, notwithstanding his evident partiality
+to Ruth, ingenuously informed her, "There is a kinsman nearer than I." If
+he performed the kinsman's part, law and piety required acquiescence; if
+not, he solemnly avowed his own resolution to do so. Ruth departed before
+it was light, and carried the intelligence home. Boaz availed himself of
+the earliest opportunity in the morning to bring the affair to a decision;
+he went up to the gate, stopped the relative to whom he had alluded as he
+was passing by, and appealed to ten of the elders of the city. He at first
+agreed to the redemption of some family inheritance which belonged to
+Naomi; but, upon intimation that if he purchased the land he must marry
+Ruth, he declined it, giving full permission to his relative to enter into
+this contract. The mutual regard subsisting between Boaz and Ruth rendered
+this a most welcome circumstance, and the former immediately called upon
+the elders and all the people who were assembled on the occasion, to hear
+witness to this, as a fair, public, and honourable transaction. "So Boaz
+took Ruth, and she was his wife."</p>
+
+<p>In some cases, where the matrimonial connection has been founded upon a
+dereliction of principle, and formed in defiance of the suggestions of
+common prudence, of parental kindness, and even of the interdictions of
+Heaven itself, we feel compelled to express our grief, rather than offer
+our congratulations; but where, as in the present instance, the voice of
+nature harmonized with that of reason, conscience, and God, who can
+hesitate to approve the union, and to anticipate that delightful result
+which has been so well expressed in poetic numbers?</p>
+
+<blockquote>"Hail, wedded love! by gracious Heaven design'd,<br />
+At once the source and glory of mankind!<br />
+'Tis this can toil, and grief, and pain assuage,<br />
+Secure our youth, and dignify our age;<br />
+'Tis this fair fame and guiltless pleasure brings,<br />
+And shakes rich plenty from its brooding wings;<br />
+Gilds duty's roughest path with friendship's ray,<br />
+And strews with roses sweet the narrow way."</blockquote>
+
+<p>If, in all the circumstances that lead to this union, the interpositions
+of Providence be not always, perhaps not frequently, so marked,
+incontrovertible, and striking, as in the history under consideration, let
+it never be forgotten, that such a wise and good superintendence really
+exists, and may, in every instance, be traced in some degree by the devout
+observer. If our ways be committed to the Lord, he will direct our paths.
+Amidst the ardour of youth, we are not always capable of discerning what
+is really obvious, or of fully believing what is infallibly true: but
+years teach wisdom; the developements of futurity often throw light upon
+the mysteries of the past; in the coolness and quiet of the eventide of
+life, and even before that period, how commonly do good men acknowledge
+the kindness of those once distressing dispensations that thwarted their
+juvenile susceptibility. In the adverse, as well as the prosperous events
+of the life of Ruth, she could perceive that "all things worked together
+for her good;" and no reflecting Christian will hesitate to appropriate
+the same sentiment to himself. A plan was laid in the divine mind, in the
+execution of which she often acted unconsciously: the birth, the
+education, the original circumstances and residence, the removal, the
+final elevation of Ruth, were all essential parts of the scheme, links in
+the chain of mercy; and the same may be affirmed respecting the life of
+every pious individual.</p>
+
+<p>One circumstance demands particular notice. Neither in Boaz nor in Ruth
+can we discern the least symptom of <i>precipitation</i>; they suffered
+Providence to work its own way, to accomplish, without any obstruction
+from their unholy haste and heedlessness, its own purposes; in neither of
+them is discernible the least trace of a wish to seek their own
+gratification irrespectively of the will of Omniscience; they were in a
+sense passive, resigning themselves wholly to the disposal of God; they
+did not force a passage through intervening impediments with an indecent
+and impious resolution of spirit, as if they could not, or would not be
+happy excepting in their own way, but "waited patiently for the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>Young persons sometimes attempt to outstrip Providence, and dare to chide
+its lingerings, or to murmur at its decisions; they set up for separate
+empire, and imagine they can create their own paradise; a conduct which
+ultimately proves as fatal to their comfort as it is now to their
+respectability. It is an advantage for young people of both sexes, which
+cannot be too highly appreciated, to have judicious, and especially
+parental advisers. Let them not impute their kind suggestions to the
+frigidity of age when they do not keep pace with their own warm feelings,
+but consider that they are likely to know more of the world, and to
+deserve their attention after amassing a stock of experience. Why should
+their good advice, or even their urgent importunity, be deemed officious
+or be treated with contempt? If mistaken, they are not, or ought not to
+be, peremptory. If not obliged to <i>follow</i> their opinion, young persons
+are certainly required, by every motive of duty, and even of
+self-interest, to <i>hear</i> it. Were it admitted that Ruth erred in some
+degree from her excessive obsequiousness to Naomi, yet her general spirit
+and temper merit the strongest encomium, the deepest study, and the closet
+imitation.</p>
+
+<p>Tragical as was the commencement of this history, its termination presents
+a very different aspect. We beheld the family of Elimelech sinking fast in
+human apprehension into oblivion, and his name beginning to cease in
+Israel; we now witness its restoration and prosperity: it has emerged from
+its obscurity into splendour, and shines with imperishable glory on the
+page of inspiration. The aged tree, which time had well nigh lopped of
+every branch, sprouts out afresh, and shoots forth with new vigour and
+luxuriancy. We should learn never to despair of Providence, never to
+relinquish hope, never to imagine that "any thing is too hard for the
+Lord." Time, and change, and death, whatever revolutions they may occasion
+in general society or in individual families, not only cannot prevent,
+but, by their diversified operations, shall conduce to accomplish the
+purposes of Heaven. "Time and change," exclaimed Job, "are against <i>me</i>."
+True; but they cannot countervail <i>Omniscience</i>.</p>
+
+<p>We naturally congratulate our favourites upon their prosperity; and the
+interest we must feel in the history of Ruth swells into the highest
+satisfaction upon reading the closing part of the narrative. We hear of
+the birth of Obed, who derives additional importance from the illustrious
+line of his descent. A few generations conduct immediately to the MESSIAH.
+All the neighbourhood celebrates the event, and we have equal reason to
+hail and proclaim it: "And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the Lord,
+which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be
+famous in Israel; and he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life and a
+nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter-in-law, which loveth thee,
+which is better to thee than seven sons, hath borne him. And Naomi took
+the child and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it. And the
+women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi;
+and they called his name Obed: HE IS THE FATHER OF JESSE, THE FATHER
+OF DAVID."</p>
+
+<p>Ordinary minds avoid, as much as possible, recurring to past periods of
+indigence and inferiority of station. Any reference to such circumstances
+is deemed offensive, by people of the world who have been elevated from
+low situations to opulence and rank, and whose arrogant nothingness proves
+they have descended in moral worth and real respectability exactly in
+proportion as they have risen in temporal distinction. But every thing we
+know of Ruth tends to convince us that, if a detailed account of her
+private life had been given, it would have been highly honourable to her
+sensibility and her piety. How often, and with what feelings, would she
+pace the field where, in the situation of a humble gleaner, she first met
+with Boaz. With what emotions would she trace and retrace her own
+eventful story! And especially, with what devout gratitude would she call
+to mind the days of her idolatry in Moab, and the happy era of her
+spiritual emancipation! In her own past character, in her infatuated
+sister's defection, what motives to praise would arise, and what tears of
+mingled pain and pleasure would she shed! And shall not we, who have
+"tasted that the Lord is gracious," cherish a sense of our obligations to
+redeeming mercy, and "remember all the way which the Lord our God hath led
+us these years in the wilderness, to humble us and to prove us, to know
+what was in our hearts, whether we would keep his commandments or no?"
+Sweet are the recollections of piety, and acceptable the offerings of a
+grateful mind! How inferior to these the trees of Lebanon in sacrifice, or
+all the spicy mountains of Arabia in a blaze! From what depths of sin,
+what delusions of mind, and what danger of soul, has "God in Christ"
+delivered us! "Once far off," we are now "brought nigh"--"sometimes
+darkness, now light in the Lord"--"you hath he quickened, who were dead in
+trespasses and sins."</p>
+
+<p>But far more exalted pleasures of memory and retrospection await the
+Christian in a future world. Having ascended above this cloudy spot into
+the glory of the divine presence, it will be his pleasing and privileged
+employment to retrace the events of past existence, when nothing but a
+<i>remembrance</i> of the struggles and conflicts of this mortal state will
+remain, to enhance the raptures of eternal victory. What is crooked will
+then be made straight, what is perplexing will become plain, what is
+unknown will be revealed. Amidst the songs of heaven it will heighten our
+blessedness to recollect the sorrows of earth as <i>past</i>--clothed in the
+robe of salvation and triumph, it will be grateful to recall the time
+when we <i>wore the armour</i> and <i>strove in the field</i>--arrived in port, it
+will be inexpressibly delightful to recur to the storm as then for ever
+<i>gone by</i>!</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="08"></a>Deborah.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter VIII.</h3>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="08-1"></a>Section I.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Historical retrospect--Deborah sitting as a Judge and Prophetess under a
+  Palm-tree--Sends to Barak to Confront Sisera--Accompanies him--
+  Preparations for Battle--Victorious Result--Death of Sisera--Reflections.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>After the death of Joshua, which occurred in the hundred and tenth year of
+his age, and in the two thousand five hundred and seventy-eighth of the
+world, the people of Israel were in a very fluctuating, unsettled
+condition, having no regularly appointed governor; and the book of Judges,
+supposed to have been written by Samuel, exhibits a striking picture of
+the disorders incident to such a state of civil disorganization. "Let
+every soul," then, "be subject unto the higher powers;" remembering that,
+as "rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil," while we are
+properly submissive to their authority, we should be grateful to God for
+their appointment.</p>
+
+<p>Although the Israelites, who had been commanded to extirpate the nations
+of Canaan, pursued their conquests for some time, they gradually relapsed
+into a neglectful inactivity, permitting the inhabitants of the land to
+remain in tributary subjection. Whatever personal objections they might
+feel, and whatever apparent contrariety there might have been between
+their views of strict justice and the explicit directions of Heaven, they
+were bound to execute the divine will with a prompt unhesitating
+compliance. If general rules of conduct were not perfectly superseded by
+the paramount authority of an express direction from God, the great
+principle of positive institutions would he annulled, and the prejudices,
+passions, and misconceptions of a fallible creature, might, in certain
+cases, interfere with the acts of supreme legislation. Though, to
+strengthen the principle of obedience, and, as far as possible, to render
+"a reasonable service," it may often be proper to inquire "<i>why</i>--" such
+is our present incapacity, or so profound and vast the mysteries of divine
+administration, that in general our inquiries must be limited to the great
+question, "<i>what</i>--is enjoined?" His conduct does not require our
+vindication, while his commands claim our obedience.</p>
+
+<p>Nor does a rebellious spirit merely incur censure; it inevitably exposes
+to punishment. The people upon whom Israel neglected to execute the
+purposes of Infinite Justice, became, according to prophetic intimations,
+"snares and traps to seduce them to idolatry," and "scourges in their
+sides, and thorns in their eyes." They were in subjection eight years to
+Cushan, king of Mesopotamia, till judges, of whom Othniel was the first,
+and Samuel the last, were raised up for their deliverance.</p>
+
+<p>After the signal interference of Heaven on their behalf, in the successes
+of their first judge, which terminated in a peace of forty years, the
+"children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord, and the Lord
+strengthened Eglon, the king of Moab; against Israel," by whom they were
+enslaved eighteen years. After which, Ehud, a Benjamite, became their
+deliverer, by assassinating the king of Moab, and another peaceful
+interval of eighty years elapsed: but such was the strange perversity of
+this extraordinary nation, that they abused their prosperity, and again
+apostatized from God. Nor will it be difficult or unprofitable to trace in
+ourselves some striking points of resemblance to them, and in the divine
+conduct that same character of love and forbearance which marks his
+dispensations to his church in all the successive ages of time, "They were
+disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast thy law behind their
+backs, and slew thy prophets which testified against them to turn them to
+thee; and they wrought great provocations. Therefore thou deliveredst them
+into the hand of their enemies, who vexed them: and in the time of their
+trouble, when they cried unto thee, thou hearedst them from heaven; and
+according to thy manifold mercies thou gavest them saviours who saved them
+out of the hand of their enemies. But after they had rest, they did evil
+again before thee; therefore leftest thou them in the hand of their
+enemies, so that they had the dominion over them; yet when they returned
+and cried unto thee, thou hearedst them from heaven, and many times didst
+thou deliver them according to thy mercies; and testifiedst against them,
+that thou mightest bring them again unto thy law: yet they dealt proudly,
+and hearkened not unto thy commandments, but sinned against thy judgments,
+(which, if a man do, he shall live in them,) and withdrew the shoulder,
+and hardened their neck, and would not hear: yet many years didst thou
+forbear them, and testifiedst against them by thy spirit in thy prophets:
+yet would they not give ear; therefore gavest thou them into the hand of
+the people of the lands. Nevertheless, for thy great mercies' sake, thou
+didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious
+and merciful God."</p>
+
+<p>Jabin, king of Canaan, was raised up by Providence to disturb that long
+period of national tranquillity already adverted to, during which the
+religious character of Israel had so much degenerated: and it must be
+admitted to evince the unfailing regard of their divine Protector, rather
+to inflict corrective chastisement upon his people, than to suffer them to
+proceed with unchecked eagerness in a course fatally injurious to their
+real interests. In every individual concern shall we not gratefully
+confess, that "whom the Lord loveth--he chasteneth, and scourgeth every
+son whom he, receiveth?"</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Year before Christ, 1805 to 1235]</p>
+
+<p>Jabin is said to have reigned in Hazor, a place situated, according to
+Josephus, in the tribe of Naphtali, on the lake Semechon. Joshua had
+reduced this place to ashes, and slew its former sovereign; but, probably,
+the present prince had availed himself of the criminal indolence of the
+Israelites to rebuild it. The captain of Jabin's army was Sisera, who was
+truly formidable; having, according to the inspired historian, nine
+hundred chariots of iron. This, for a petty prince of Canaan, was a most
+extraordinary force, by which Israel was kept under tyrannical domination
+for twenty years. Ardent cries were presented to Heaven in these critical
+circumstances; and he whose ears are ever open to the cries of the
+distressed, interposed by raising up an illustrious female to accomplish
+the plans of mercy. "And DEBORAH, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she
+judged Israel at that time." As no prophet is mentioned in Israel during
+their defection, this was a signal testimony of the divine favour upon
+their repentance; and while observing that out of the millions of Israel a
+woman was chosen to execute the great purposes of Heaven, we cannot but
+admire the inscrutable wisdom that appoints all persons to their stations,
+qualifies all agents for their particular instrumentality, and regulates
+all the movements of this lower world. Not a sparrow falls to the ground,
+nor an angel wings his flight, but in subserviency to the arrangements of
+an omniscient mind.</p>
+
+<p>Deborah was a judge, as well as a prophetess; and a ruler over some, if
+not all their tribes. Some have supposed, that judges among the ancient
+Israelites resembled the Archons among the Athenians, and the Dictators
+among the Romans. The office was not hereditary, but conferred for life;
+and seems to have been considerably allied, although somewhat inferior, to
+royal authority.</p>
+
+<p>We are struck with the simplicity of the age in which this prophetess and
+judge of Israel is represented as sitting under a palm-tree, to discharge
+her public and eminently important duties. It was between Rama and Bethel,
+in mount Ephraim. The subject is curious and interesting; we may,
+therefore, enter into some particulars.</p>
+
+<p>The palm, or date-tree, is a native of Africa and the East, where it grows
+to the height of fifty or sixty, and occasionally a hundred feet. A
+cluster of branches issues from the top of it, eight or nine feet long,
+bending towards the earth, and extending all round in the form of an
+umbrella. The trunk is upright, and full of cavities, the vestiges of its
+decayed leaves, having a flat surface within, adapted to the human foot,
+and forming a kind of natural ladder, by which a person may easily ascend
+to the top. The lower part produces a number of stalks or suckers, which
+diffuse the tree considerably, and form a kind of bushy forest. This
+illustrates the scriptural term in the history of Deborah. "She dwelt
+under the <i>palm-tree</i>;" or, as it might be rendered, <i>in a forest of
+palms</i>. This tree was very common in Palestine. It abounded along the
+banks of Jordan, and particularly about Engeddi and Jericho; the latter
+place is designated, in Scripture, <i>the city of palms</i>.</p>
+
+<p>"The extensive importance of the date-tree," says Dr. Clarke, "is one of
+the most curious objects to which a traveller can direct his attention. A
+considerable part of the inhabitants of Egypt, of Arabia, and Persia,
+subsist almost entirely upon its fruit. They boast also of its medicinal
+virtues. Their camels feed upon the date stone. From the leaves they make
+couches, baskets, bags, mats, and brushes; from the branches, cages for
+their poultry, and fences for their gardens; from the fibres of the
+boughs, thread, ropes, and rigging; from the sap is prepared a spirituous
+liquor: and the body of the tree furnishes fuel: it is even said, that
+from one variety of the palm-tree, the <i>Phoenix farinifera,</i> meal has been
+extracted, which is found among the fibres of the trunk, and has been used
+for food." [<a href="#foot23">23</a>]</p>
+
+<p>In the East, it is very common for persons to live in tents, either
+entirely or during some of the most sultry seasons of the year. This was
+the patriarchal mode, and persons of considerable distinction are
+accustomed to pitch them for occasional residence. Mr. Harmer quotes Dr.
+Pococke as speaking of a pleasant place not far from Aleppo, where he met
+an Aga, who had a great entertainment there, accompanied with music under
+tents. Maillet mentions tents as things of course, in an account he gives
+of an Egyptian officer's taking the air with his lady in the neighbourhood
+of Cairo; and Chardin says, that Tahmasp, the Persian monarch, used to
+spend the winter at Casbin, and to retire in the summer three or four
+leagues into the country, where he lived in tents at the foot of Mount
+Alouvent, in a place abounding with cool springs and pleasant shades; and
+that his successors lived after the same manner until the time of Abas the
+Great, who removed his court to Ispahan. [<a href="#foot24">24</a>] It is sufficiently probable,
+therefore, that Deborah pitched her tent during a considerable period of
+the year, under some remarkable palm-tree which stood either alone, or in
+a forest of palms. There, for the purpose of convenient shelter in a
+sultry climate, and with primitive simplicity of mind and manners, she
+received the children of Israel who came to her for judgment,
+investigating their causes, and by her integrity and wisdom, promoting the
+happiness of her illustrious nation. The homage which mere external pomp
+compels is lighter than vanity, compared with that stirling solidity of
+character which no less ministers to the general good than to the
+individual's own reputation. He who rules over others, should aim to be
+enthroned in their affections; and they whom Providence calls to obey,
+should readily cherish, and, on all suitable occasions, express feelings
+of respect for their appointed rulers.</p>
+
+<p>As the supreme magistrate of Israel, Deborah sent to Barak, of whom we
+know only that he was the son of Abinoam, and resided in Kedesh-Naphtali,
+requiring him to take ten thousand men of the tribes of Naphtali and
+Zebukin into the neighbourhood of mount Tabor; and, as a prophetess under
+supernatural influence of immediate inspiration, she assured him of the
+most perfect success against the hostile prepartions of Sisera. He was
+not only warranted to anticipate a decisive victory, but also the
+destruction of this celebrated general, of whom it was expressly affirmed
+that he should be "delivered into his hand."</p>
+
+<p>It is not necessary to inquire by what particular means this divine
+intimation of success was communicated to the prophetess of Israel,
+whither by an audible voice, a nocturnal vision, an angelic messenger, or
+a secret impression; suffice it to know, that the great Disposer of human
+destiny has often adopted some and all of these methods to disclose the
+scenes of futurity to the mind, in proof that he is not only the ruler of
+nations, but the guardian of his church. Though he permit the rod to smite
+his people, it shall he broken in pieces whenever it has accomplished its
+work. On the present occasion, it was revealed to Deborah, that in the
+ensuing conflict Israel should certainly be victorious; and this
+disclosure of the event might be kindly intended to revive the desponding
+feelings of the pious part of the community under circumstances of painful
+depression. We are not authorized to anticipate, in our individual or
+national calamities, such a miraculous discovery, nor ought we to repine
+at the concealment of future events; but of this we may rest assured, if
+indeed the people of God, and the "called according to his purpose," the
+hostility of our worst enemies cannot eventually injure us--the "Captain
+of our salvation" will conduct, us to triumph--and the standard of victory
+shall be planted upon the graves of our foes.</p>
+
+<p>Barak, it seems, started some objection to the message of Deborah,
+alleging, "If thou wilt go with me, then I will go; but if thou wilt not
+go with me, then I will not go." This extraordinary reply may, perhaps, be
+explained, by supposing it to be the language of that modesty which has so
+often characterized the greatest of men; and which, it must be admitted,
+is no less admirable than their most splendid achievements. Thus when the
+angel of the Lord appeared to Moses, announcing a divine commission to go
+to Pharaoh, and bring the children of Israel out of Egyptian servitude, he
+replied, "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh?" and, during a
+long-continued conference, he stated a variety of difficulties, and
+manifested a degree of reluctance that excites astonishment. We are ready
+to charge him with an infatuation bordering upon insolence and
+presumption; nor, upon a first perusal, should we wonder to find him
+smitten to the earth for his strange hesitation and timidity; but a closer
+inspection of the narrative will convince us, that his reluctance, and
+apparent refusal, ought not to be attributed to any unwillingness to
+engage in the service of God, with a view of promoting his glory in the
+earth, but to a consciousness of his personal unworthiness. His objection
+was less to the <i>work</i>, than to <i>himself</i>; he did not so much tremble
+because <i>that</i> was arduous, as because <i>he</i> was, in his own apprehension,
+<i>unfit</i>. This was a feeling, however, which, under the circumstances of
+his call, we cannot vindicate; for, to say the least, it was excessive.
+Whatever estimate Moses in the one case, or Barak in the other, might have
+formed of themselves, the divine will ought to have been considered the
+only rule of action. We must never shrink from the course to which
+Providence calls us--allowing God, who cannot err, to choose his own
+instruments; and feeling that he who <i>commands</i> can <i>enable</i> us to perform
+the most arduous duties.</p>
+
+<p>Animated by a zeal which nothing could repress, Deborah instantly complied
+with the condition upon which Barak proposed to engage in the war. In
+language expressive of an unconquerable heroism, a masculine energy of
+character and a devoted patriotism of spirit, she sent him word, "I will
+surely go with thee;" but accompanied this message with an intimation,
+that the honour of this exploit would in part at least attach to a woman,
+whom Providence had selected to execute the purposes of heaven upon
+Sisera. The little army being collected, the general and the prophetess
+hastened to the field of battle, anxious to revenge the wrongs of their
+insulted country, and to emancipate her enslaved provinces. A patriotism
+inspired <i>her</i> breast, and probably by this time animated <i>his</i>, which was
+kindled by a fire from heaven, which roused into vigorous action all the
+respective talents, and energies of their nature; and which, urging them
+forward to righteous war, a war against impiety and oppression, undertaken
+in the fear, and to promote the glory, of God, excited them to march to an
+anticipated victory.</p>
+
+<p>Under these circumstances, it is as much to the honour of Barak, that he
+wished for the presence of the prophetess. Heroes are seldom anxious for
+the observant eye of piety to watch their movements, and to penetrate
+their camps. Alas! those whom we admire as the defenders of our country,
+we weep over as the corrupters of our morals; and too often the page which
+celebrates their prowess, is stained with the record of their rapacity.
+But, however unwelcome an attendant, let them remember that an omniscient
+eye witnesses both their private transactions, and their public career.</p>
+
+<p>It is no less honourable to the character of this illustrious heroine and
+female head of Israel, that so far from cherishing any petty jealousies of
+Barak, and aiming at a monopoly of the reputation likely to result from
+the present undertaking, she assigned to him the post of honour, and
+contented herself with becoming his adviser. The superiority of her mind
+induced her to seek an inferiority of station; anxious only to ensure
+success, not to gain applause; to be approved of God, not to be altered of
+man. Happy would it be for us all in our respective stations, whether
+elevated by opulence or depressed by poverty, were we constantly
+influenced by a similar principle. Then should we be stimulated to the
+noblest duties, and fulfil the solemn injunction of our God and Saviour,
+"Occupy till I come."</p>
+
+<p>Sisera, the captain of the Canaanitish army, having been informed of the
+movements of Israel, gathered together all his nine hundred chariots of
+iron, and encamped between Harosheth and the river Kishon. This hostile
+force, stretching along the circumjacent valley of mount Tabor, must have
+presented a formidable appearance; and it would not have been surprising,
+if even veteran troops, whose scared bosoms proclaimed their unretreating
+hardihood in battle, had been appalled to meet so mighty a preparation
+with only ten thousand men. But the spirit of a weak woman, when sustained
+by the living God, shall brave every danger. Faith shall triumph over
+fear, and the sword shall follow and fulfil prophetic inspirations. "Up,"
+said Deborah to Barak, "for this is the day in which the Lord hath
+delivered Sisera into thine hand; is not the Lord gone out before thee?"
+If from this spirited appeal, it might be unjust to the military character
+of Barak, to cherish a suspicion that he manifested some degree of
+reluctance to attack the army of Sisera, overawed by his numerical
+superiority, we cannot help perceiving the wisdom and promptitude which
+actuated the conduct of Deborah. She had an eye to discern, and a courage
+to seize, an important crisis. But what most claims our admiration is, an
+incessant reference to Providence, which marks all her words and actions.
+Nothing of that boastful language, which indicates an arrogant mind
+escaped her lips. She evinced no self-adulation, and no undue dependence
+upon human resources. How many in similar circumstances, would have vushed
+forward to disproportionate battle with a blind impetuosity, trusting to
+<i>chance</i>, for the result: or, inspired alone by personal hatred against
+the foe, and a thirst for renown, would have hastened to conquer or to
+die! From our earliest days we have been taught to admire the heroes of
+classical story, and have followed with acclamations the conquerors of
+later ages, who seem to have rivalled the fame of a Themistocles or a
+Leonidas, and to have reacted the tragical sublimities of Salamis and
+Thermopyl&aelig;; but, in the present history, we see piety clad in the armour
+of heroism--the achievements of military valour ascribed solely to the
+higher cause of a divine superintendence--"The LORD hath delivered Sisera
+into thine hand; is not the LORD gone out before thee?"</p>
+
+<p>Without detracting however from the military genius of Barak, or ascribing
+an undue pre-eminence to Deborah, it may be readily believed, that so
+disproportionate a force as that of the Israelites at first acted, and
+very properly acted, on the defensive, till a favourable conjunction of
+circumstances occurred; and, perhaps, some miraculous sign, or some divine
+inspiration on the mind of the prophetess, suggested the moment of attack.
+[<a href="#foot25">25</a>] It is in fact impossible to determine with any precision where human
+skill ceased to operate, and where divine interposition commenced; and so
+imperfect is our present acquaintance with the laws by which spirit and
+matter are connected, that our speculations will certainly be fruitless,
+and may therefore be pronounced unwise. Let us be grateful, that <i>the
+fact</i> of divine operation on the human mind is fully ascertained, and by
+every sincere Christian pleasingly experienced; and that, though "all the
+Lord's people" are not "prophets," the language of kind encouragement can
+never be expunged from the sacred page, "If ye being evil know how to give
+good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father
+give THE HOLT SPIRIT to them that ask him?"</p>
+
+<p>In obedience to the orders of Deborah, Barak immediately put his little
+band of intrepid warriors in motion. The result was such, as under these
+circumstances might, however astonishing, have been reasonably expected;
+for "if God be for us, who can be against us?" The mighty hosts of Canaan,
+amounting, according to the estimate of Josephus, to three hundred
+thousand foot, and ten thousand horse, vanished before the valiant arm of
+Israel, nerved as it was by an energy from heaven. Barak poured the
+irresistible torrent of war upon his presumptuous foes, and swept
+them away.</p>
+
+<p>Josephus states, that "when they were come to a close fight, there came
+down from heaven a great storm, with a vast quantity of rain and hail; and
+the wind blew the rain in the face of the Canaanites, and so darkened
+their eyes, that their arrows and slings were of no advantage to them; nor
+would the coldness of the air permit the soldiers, to make use of their
+swords; while this storm did not so much incommode the Israelites, because
+it came in their backs. They also took such courage upon the apprehension
+that God was assisting them, that they fell upon the very midst of their
+enemies, and slew a great number of them. So that some of them fell by the
+Israelites, some fell by their own horses, which were put into disorder,
+and not a few were killed by their own chariots."</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely does the history of the world furnish an example of so complete a
+victory, accompanied by so utter an annihilation of the enemy. Curiosity
+might wish to trace the various movements of that memorable day, the plan
+of battle, the occasion of defeat, the exploits of individual heroes, and
+a thousand other circumstances, with which fancy often decorates the head
+of the hero, and amplifies the page of the historian; but with a majestic
+simplicity so eminently characteristic of the sacred narrative, it is
+stated that "the Lord discomfited Sisera, and all his chariots, and all
+his host, with the edge of the sword, before Barak; so that Sisera lighted
+down off his chariot, and fled away on his feet. But Barak pursued after
+the chariots, and after the host, unto Harosheth of the Gentiles: and all
+the host of Sisera fell upon the edge of the sword; and there was not a
+man left." Who will compare with this simple record the language of
+C&aelig;sar, though so often celebrated, "<i>Veni, vidi, vici</i>--I came, I saw, I
+conquered;" words at least as remarkable for egotism as for laconic force:
+or who would represent the battle of <i>Zela</i>, and the defeat of the
+<i>Pharnaces</i> as worthy of being named in connection with the memorable
+victory of Tabor.</p>
+
+<p>Sisera, defeated, dispirited, and alone, fled to the tent of Jael, the
+wife of Heber the Kenite, a family which was at this time at peace with
+the king of Canaan. It was an additional reason to hope for security from
+the enemy's pursuit, that the custom of the country interdicted intrusion
+of all strangers into the woman's apartment. Jael moreover went forth to
+invite this defeated general under her protection, and encouraged him to
+expect every attention that humanity could dictate in this moment of
+extremity. No wonder he resigned himself with a fearless confidence to her
+care, and prepared to seek in "balmy sleep" an oblivion of all his
+distractions. She furnishes him with a refreshing draught of milk, though
+he only requested water; covers him with a mantle, and undertakes to guard
+him from all unwelcome intrusion, by standing at the door of the tent, to
+answer the interrogatories of any inquisitive stranger. But no sooner did
+he drop into a sound sleep, than, seizing upon the first weapons that her
+situation afforded, a nail and a hammer, and approaching softly to the
+unconscious general, she drove the nail into his temple, and transfixed
+him to the ground. Hastening from her tent, in the transport of success,
+to meet Barak, who was in eager pursuit, she conducted, him to the corpse
+of his prostrate foe. "So God subdued on that day, Jabin, the king of
+Canaan, before the children of Israel."</p>
+
+<p>Let us dismiss Jael, for the present, from our meditations, and offer a
+reflection or two on the fate of Sisera.</p>
+
+<p>I. No event recorded upon the page of history is more calculated to
+impress upon our minds the assertion of Solomon, than that to which we
+have just given our attention: "The race is not to the swift, nor the
+battle to the strong ... for man also knoweth not his time, as the fishes
+that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the
+snare; so ere the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth
+suddenly upon them." Nothing could have been more improbable, according to
+human calculations, than the result of this extraordinary battle. Who that
+had seen the far-stretching troops of the king of Canaan overspreading,
+like a vast inundation, the vicinity of Kishon and Harosheth, whose
+polished armour glittered along the valley to the rising sun, accustomed
+to victory, breathing revenge, and headed by the most distinguished
+general of the age--who that had viewed their prodigious forces,
+consisting of infantry and cavalry, in contrast with the diminutive
+strength and contemptible numbers of the Israelitish army, but must have
+considered the attack as the feeble effort of an unaccountable
+infatuation? But though HE who "sitteth upon the circle of the earth,"
+could have interposed at once to crush the foe by the thunder of his
+power, ten thousand men of Israel were appointed to execute his purpose
+against the devoted Canaanites, to show that it is his will to work by
+human means;--he required the employment of <i>only</i> ten thousand, to
+prove that all human skill and success is mere instrumentality, and that
+the honour of victory is to be attributed to the God of battles.</p>
+
+<p>2. The enemies of God and his people shall perish ingloriously. This is
+not the only instance. Pharaoh makes ready his own chariot, and takes with
+him all the chariots of Egypt, in eager pursuit of Israel, just escaped
+from his relentless oppression. In the pride of his strength he proclaims,
+"I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil, my lust shall be
+satisfied upon them--I will draw my sword, my hand shall destroy them;"
+but there was an arm of superior might that seized the unresisting
+elements, and launched them upon the rash adventurer and his guilty
+myriads. "Thou didst blow with thy wind, the sea covered them; they sank
+as lead in the mighty waters. Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the
+gods?"--Sennacherib, king of Assyria, sends Tartan, and Rabsaris, and
+Rabshakeh, with a great host against Jerusalem, in the reign of Hezekiah.
+Mark their insolent blasphemy: "Hearken not unto Hezekiah when he
+persuadeth you, saying, The Lord will deliver us. Hath any of the gods of
+the nations delivered at all his land out of the hand of the king of
+Assyria? Where are the gods of Hamath and of Arpad? where are the gods of
+Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivah? have they delivered Samaria out of mine hand?
+Who are they among all the gods of the countries that have delivered their
+country out of mine hand, that the Lord should deliver Jerusalem out of
+mine hand?" A letter was afterward sent to the king to the same effect,
+commencing with this blasphemous sentence, "Let not thy God, in whom thou
+trustest, deceive thee." Hezekiah instantly repairs to the temple, opens
+his letter in the immediate presence of the Eternal, and supplicates his
+great name for that interference in the present extremity, which would
+deliver his people, and promote his own glory. His prayer is heard. From
+the heaven of heavens an angelic envoy is despatched to the Assyrian
+encampment, and with the flaming sword of almighty indignation, smites <i>a
+hundred and eighty-five thousand</i> of the boasting foe; "and when they
+arose early in the morning, behold they were all dead corpses." Herod
+ventures upon the dangerous experiment of persecuting the church of God:
+he dares, with an untrembling hand, to put James to the sword, and
+ultimately imprison Peter for the same horrid purpose: but he who "sitteth
+in the heavens" held the presumptuous criminal in "utter derision,"
+despatched an angel to break off the chains by which his servant was
+bound, and laid his finger upon the royal rebel to extinguish his glory
+and his pride for ever; "he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost."
+Ah! the immortality of the soul elevates it above mortal power, and the
+utmost that a persecutor can do is, by a painful stroke, to put a
+Christian into speedier possession of his promised blessedness. "A tyrant
+is mortal, his empire expires with his life; and were he to employ the
+whole course of his life in tormenting a martyr, and in trying to impair
+his felicity, he would resemble an idiot throwing stones at the lightning,
+while in an indivisible moment, and with as inconceivable rapidity, it
+caught his eye as it passed from the east to the west."</p>
+
+<p>"Thou dull stupid man, who art not stricken with the idea of a God, whose
+will is self-efficient, and who alone can act immediately on an immaterial
+soul, come and behold some sensible proofs of that infinite power, of
+which metaphysical proofs can give thee no idea! And thou, proud insolent
+man! go aboard the last-built vessel, put out to sea, set the most
+vigilant watch, surround thyself with the most formidable instruments:
+what art thou, when God uttereth his voice?' What art thou, when the
+'noise' resounds? What art thou, when torrents of rain seem to threaten a
+second deluge, and to make the globe which thou inhabitest one rolling
+sea? What art thou when lightnings emit their terrible flashes? What art
+thou when the 'winds' come roaring 'out of their treasures?' What art thou
+<i>then</i>? Verily, thou art no less than thou wast in thy palace. Thou art no
+less than when thou wast sitting at a delicious table. Thou art no less
+than thou wast when every thing contributed to thy pleasure. Thou art no
+less than when at the head of thine army, thou wast the terror of nations,
+shaking the earth with the stunning noise of thy warlike instruments: for,
+at thy festal board, within thy palace, among thy pleasures, at the head
+of thine armies, thou wast <i>nothing</i> before the King of nations. As an
+immaterial and immortal creature, thou art subject to his immediate power;
+but, to humble and to confound thee, he must manifest himself to thee in
+sensible objects. Behold him, then, in this formidable situation: try thy
+power against his: silence 'the noise of the multitude of waters:' fasten
+the vessel that 'reeleth like a drunken man;' smooth the foaming waves
+that 'mount thee up to heaven;' fill up the horrible gulfs whither thou
+goest 'down to the bottoms of the mountains;' dissipate the lightning that
+flasheth in thy face; hush the bellowing thunders; confine the winds in
+their caverns; assuage the anguish of thy soul, and prevent its melting
+and exhaling with fear. How diminutive is man! How many ways hath God to
+confound his pride! He uttereth his voice, and there is a noise of a
+multitude of waters in the heavens. He causeth the vapours to ascend from
+the ends of the earth. He maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth
+the wind out of his treasures. Who would 'not fear thee, O King
+of nations?"</p>
+
+<p>It is necessary, however, to remark, that we are not authorized always to
+expect the strict exercise of retributive justice in the present state.
+Some remarkable visitations have, in all periods, roused the attention of
+an astonished world, and powerfully appealed to the understanding of men,
+in vindication of the character, and in proof of the existence, of a
+superintending Providence. Tyrants have been hurled from their thrones,
+empires uprooted from their foundations, and the "poor set on high from
+oppression;" but these dispensations have not been regular, nor can they
+be calculated upon as certain, or in general, perhaps, as probable. They
+have been sufficiently numerous to indicate an observant though invisible
+eye fixed upon human affairs; but not so frequent as to supersede the
+Christian's anticipations of a day of final and impartial judgment. The
+present may indeed be considered rather as a time of permitted, confusion,
+the period of moral chaos, in which the elements of a new creation
+exists, but in a disorganized state; in which the principles of depraved
+human nature are permitted to develope themselves, and human passions are
+suffered to act in an ample field of exertion with comparatively little
+control, and for the purpose of ultimately promoting the glory of God.
+Hereafter "the morning stars" will "sing together," and all "the sons of
+God" again "shout for joy," when "all things that offend shall be gathered
+out of his kingdom," when sinners shall be everlastingly degraded, Christ
+for ever exalted, the most mysterious dispensations shine with transparent
+brightness in the light of eternity, and the unfading paradise of the
+saints bloom amidst the wrecks of time.</p>
+
+<p>3. "Boast not thyself of to-morrow, for thou knowest not what a day may
+bring forth." Little did Sisera imagine the fatal reverses he was destined
+to suffer, when in all the pride of fancied superiority, sustained by the
+recollection of the successes of twenty years, he made his arrangements
+for the battle with Barak and Deborah. What a contrast between the moment
+of confident preparation, and that of disgraceful retreat! What a mighty
+and unexpected contrast between the high-spirited general at the head of
+his army, and the trembling fugitive hiding himself in a tent, and slain
+by a woman.</p>
+
+<p>Let us apply the reflection to ourselves. How often do we form our
+schemes, and calculate on temporal prosperities, without any due regard to
+the will of Providence, or any proper consideration of the uncertainty of
+life. "We live without God in the world," an omniscient Deity has no
+existence in our minds, and we inquire "Who will show us any good?" as if
+God were not the chief good, or could not supply our happiness.</p>
+
+<p>Alas! how often have we boasted of to-morrow by neglecting, in a
+religious sense, the most important business of to-day. It is not easy to
+imagine a more dangerous state of mind, than that of a person, whose
+resolutions of repentance and amendment all respect futurity, because he
+makes these very resolutions an excuse for his negligences, and even
+considers them as an expiation of the guilt of his procrastinating temper.
+It is indeed an affecting thought, that so thick a mist surrounds us, we
+are not only unacquainted with the events of YEARS to come, we do not know
+what a DAY may bring forth. It may produce a change in our
+circumstances--our faculties--our friendships--our hopes.--An hour--a
+moment, may waft us from time into eternity! "Now," then, "is the accepted
+time, behold, NOW is the day of salvation."--"Seek the Lord while he may
+be found, call ye upon him while he is near."</p>
+
+<p>4. Mount TABOR has been repeatedly mentioned as the place where Deborah
+directed that the forces of Zebulon and Naphtali should be concentrated,
+and its immediate vicinity as the scene of the celebrated contest between
+Barak and Sisera; but though it may appear a digression from the present
+subject, it would be scarcely pardonable to omit a reference to that still
+more wonderful circumstance, the transfiguration of Jesus Christ, which
+probability and tradition concur in assigning to the same remarkable spot.
+Three of his disciples, Peter, James, and John, accompanied him to this
+mountain, where two bright spirits from among the glorified saints, Moses
+and Elias, descended to join their society. Delightful pledge of that
+inseparable union which will one day take place upon the summits of
+immortality, when "the general assembly and church of the first-born"
+shall associate together in the realms of bliss!</p>
+
+<blockquote>"O happy, happy company,<br />
+Where men and heavenly spirits greet,<br />
+And those whom death hath severed meet,<br />
+And hold again communion sweet;<br />
+O happy, happy company!"</blockquote>
+
+<p>What though death at present divides them, and while some of this glorious
+family have reached their destined habitation, others are left on earth to
+struggle with the calamities of life; the separation is but temporary, and
+will serve to heighten the raptures of union, when they shall come from
+the east and from the west, from the north and from the south, and sit
+down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of God.</p>
+
+<p>And what will constitute the heaven of believers? Doubtless the vision of
+the Lamb, converse with Jesus, and perpetual intercourse with saints of
+all nations and ages. Moses and Elias descended from the raptures of
+immortality to talk with Jesus on the mount, and the same divine communion
+will form a considerable portion of our felicity in the invisible world.
+To be for ever near him, and to "see him as he is"--to converse of the
+things of his kingdom--to learn from his own lips the purpose of all his
+most inscrutable dispensations to the church and to each believer, the
+reason of every sorrow, and the nature of its connection with our ultimate
+happiness--to hold fellowship with all his redeemed, holy patriarchs,
+distinguished apostles, and victorious martyrs--to be encircled with all
+his family, emparadised in his embraces, and united to all who love him in
+bonds of indissoluble affection; no sea to separate, no discord to
+agitate, no enemies to infest the unbroken circle of friendship--this will
+be "joy unspeakable and full of glory." Not the delight of Moses, when
+conversing with God in the burning bush, at the door of the tabernacle,
+or in mount Sinai--not the transports of David, when his enchanted spirit
+waked the lyre of praise and gratitude--not the bliss of the three
+favoured disciples, even on this mount of transfiguration, can be compared
+with this perfect happiness. All the little streams of felicity which flow
+to the church of God in the desert, will then be collected into one vast
+ocean, in which the tears and sorrows of time will be eternally lost. The
+pleasures of a moment which now solace us by the way, will be exchanged
+for the permanent joys of that celestial inheritance, in which "the Lamb,
+which is in the midst of the throne, shall lead us, and feed us by
+fountains of living waters; and God shall wipe away all tears from our
+eyes." By the anticipations of faith, we are "come unto mount Sion, and
+unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an
+innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the
+firstborn which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to
+the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the Mediator of the new
+covenant."</p>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="08-2"></a>Section II.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Capacity of Deborah as a Poetess--Paraphrase of her remarkable Song,
+  composed to celebrate the victory over Sisera.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>"On a favoured few," says an elegant writer, "has been conferred the
+combined glory of acting nobly and writing well; of serving their own day
+and generation with credit to themselves and advantage to their country,
+and of transmitting useful information to regions remote and generations
+unborn. On the list of those illustrious few, stands, with distinguished
+honour, the name of Deborah, the judge, the prophetess, the sweet singer
+of Israel; and it is with exultation we observe the most dignified,
+arduous, and important stations of human life filled with reputation by a
+woman; a woman who first with resolution and intrepidity saved her country
+in the hour of danger and distress, and ruled it with wisdom and equity,
+and then recorded her own achievements in strains which must be held in
+admiration so long as good taste and love of virtue exist in the world."</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1285.] The remarkable victory we have just
+related and remarked upon, is celebrated by Deborah in a poem, which
+claims our attention as one of the most ancient in the world, having been
+composed upwards of four hundred years before the birth of Homer, and
+which is characterized by unusual pathos and sublimity. Many passages in
+it are confessedly obscure, which will not be deemed surprising, when it
+is recollected how imperfectly we are acquainted, in this distant period,
+with the various circumstances, incidents, and localities of the memorable
+event it celebrates, and even with the original language in which it
+was written.</p>
+
+<p>Dr. Lowth [<a href="#foot26">26</a>] very
+properly divides this poem into three parts; first, the exordium: next, a
+recital of the circumstances which preceded, and of those which
+accompanied the victory; lastly, a fuller description of the concluding
+event, the death of Sisera, and the disappointed hopes of his mother;
+which is embellished with the choisest flowers of poetry.</p>
+
+<p>It is proposed in the present chapter to furnish an extended paraphrase
+of this fine specimen of ancient poetry, for the purpose chiefly of
+illustrating its meaning. Its various beauties as a composition can
+scarcely fail of striking the most superficial reader. It occupies the
+fifth chapter of the book of Judges.</p>
+
+<p>[PG Editor's note: In the original book, the text and paraphrase were
+displayed side-by-side. In this case, for each verse, the paraphrase
+follows in brackets.]</p>
+
+<p>1. Then sang Deborah, and Barak the son of Abinoam, on that day, saying,
+[Deeply impressed with a grateful sense of that remarkable interposition
+of Providence for the deliverance of Israel from the long tyranny of their
+inveterate enemies, which Deborah and Barak saw accomplished by their own
+instrumentality, the one directing by her wisdom, what the other performed
+by his valor, they sang a sacred ode on the very same day; a day so
+wonderful for its dangers, anxieties, and triumphs. It was to this effect.]</p>
+
+<p>2. Praise ye the Lord for the avenging of Israel, when the people
+willingly offered themselves. [Give thanks, ye tribes of Israel, to the
+God of battles, who has smitten the daring foe, and thus avenged our
+wrongs. "The hearts of all men are in his hands," and instead of internal
+dissention enfeebling our energies, he has graciously disposed the people
+of Zebulon and Naphtali to offer their zealous services in the war; a war
+which patriotism and piety have, under the blessing of Heaven, conducted
+to a glorious termination.]</p>
+
+<p>3. Hear, O ye kings; give ear, O ye princes; I, even I, will sing unto the
+Lord; I will sing praise to the Lord God of Israel [Let the voice of
+praise, uttered from the thousands of Israel, resound to distant nations,
+so that Gentile princes and potentates may hear of the miracles of mercy
+wrought for the covenanted people of God. Ye idolatrous rulers of the
+world, reject forever your gods of wood and stone, for I am called to
+celebrate the majesty of Jehovah, who has triumphed over them; and will
+sing to the honour of him, who, though no local divinity, has chosen the
+children of Israel as his peculiar people.]</p>
+
+<p>4. Lord, when thou wentest out of Seir, when thou marchedst out of the
+field of Edom, the earth trembled, and the heavens dropped, the clouds
+also dropped water.</p>
+
+<p>5. The mountains melted from before the Lord; even that Sinai from before
+the Lord God of Israel. [This illustrious day revives the recollection of
+those ancient interpositions of the strong arm of Omnipotence for our
+ancestors, which have often excited the our admiration, and of which this
+appears like the continuation of a miraculous series. O God! what a period
+was that, when Israel marched round the confines of Idumea, and the
+majesty of thy protecting presence was displayed before the enemy, in the
+pillar of cloud by day, and of fire by night. Edom refused a passage
+through their land, but so terrible were thy signs, that the trembling
+earth, the tempestuated heavens--all nature seemed to avenge the cause of
+thine insulted people; and the surrounding nations were smitten with
+terror, as when mount Sinai herself quaked, and for a time disappeared
+amidst the tremendous glory of the divine presence. These wonders do not
+surpass what we have witnessed to-day, and which prove that none shall
+oppress thy people with impunity. [<a href="#foot27">27</a>]]</p>
+
+<p>6. In the days of Shamgar, the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the
+highways were unoccupied, and the travellers walked through byways.</p>
+
+<p>7. The inhabitants of the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel, until
+that I, Deborah, arose, that I arose a mother in Israel [Turn your weeping
+eyes to the recent miseries of our country Shamgar, indeed, who succeeded
+Ehud as judge, effected something for Israel, and Jael shall never be
+forgotten for her heroism and her useful exertions, although in a private
+station; but alas! the long tyranny of our oppressors continued to produce
+the most disastrous effects--trade perished, for no caravans of merchants
+dared to occupy the public ways, infested as they were with an armed
+banditti, the life of the unoffending traveller became endangered, and the
+dejected inhabitants of the country were afraid to venture abroad, except
+as thieves, stealing through the most unfrequented paths, and even there
+the most dreadful outrages were committed; until I Deborah, arose, and
+notwithstanding the weakness of my sex, and the desperate situation of
+affairs, became the happy instrument of benefiting Israel, by the
+restoration of public justice, general security, and national glory.]</p>
+
+<p>8. They chose new gods; then was war in the gates; was there a shield or
+spear seen among forty thousand in Israel? [But trace our former miseries
+to their source. Israel relapsed into idolatry, and God punished them with
+the scourge of war. The insulting foe pressed to the very gates of our
+fortified cities--the means of defence were utterly neglected in
+consequence of general despondency, and no adequate supply of arms could
+be furnished to repel the infuriated enemy.]</p>
+
+<p>9. My heart is toward the governors of Israel, that offered themselves
+willingly among the people. Bless ye the Lord. [My warmest affections are
+due to the chiefs of Israel, who, in the hour of calamity and
+apprehension, did not shrink from danger, nor tremble at death; but, in
+the true spirit of patriotism, accompanied the people to battle, placed
+themselves at their head, flew at my first mandate to defend the common
+cause, and animated our warriors by their noble enthusiasm. Let <i>them</i>
+unite in this anthem of praise to Jehovah, who had the best opportunities
+of knowing, that nothing but his gracious interposition could have
+procured such unparalleled success.]</p>
+
+<p>10. Speak ye that ride on white asses, ye that sit in judgment, and walk
+by the way. [Rejoice, ye nobles and judges of the land, who have the
+honorable distinction of riding upon white asses, [<a href="#foot28">28</a>] the most valuable
+animal of the kind, and therefore appropriated to persons of your rank;
+shout for joy, because now there is no impediment to the exercise of your
+high offices; and ye, merchants, assist in the song, for no obstruction
+remains to commercial intercourse; the ways are clear, communications
+open, and your marauding foes shall alarm you no more.]</p>
+
+<p>11. They that are delivered from the noise of archers in the places of
+drawing water, there shall they rehearse the righteous acts of the Lord,
+even the righteous acts towards the inhabitants of his villages in Israel;
+then shall the people of the Lord go down to the gates. [Ye shepherds, who
+a short time since scarcely dared to drive your flocks to the watering
+places, and ye maidens, who were afraid to go and draw for your daily
+supply, or went in silence lest the smallest noise should rouse your
+ever-watchful enemies, [<a href="#foot29">29</a>] now sing with a loud voice, and without the
+least apprehension, and unite with the husbandmen and vine-dressers, in
+extolling that miraculous mercy which has restored to your most
+unprotected habitations the blessings of peace and security. The gates of
+our cities shall no longer be shut for fear of the enemy, and the people
+may again repair to these seats of justice and judgment. [<a href="#foot30">30</a>]]</p>
+
+<p>12. Awake, awake, Deborah! awake, awake, utter a song! arise, Barak, and
+lead thy captivity captive, thou son of Abinoam! [Let not my exhausted
+powers drop the exulting strain; but rather, O Deborah, kindle with fresh
+enthusiasm upon every new view of the glorious subject! Exert thy utmost
+powers of praise, upon this inexhaustible theme! And thou, companion and
+instrument of victory, Barak, arise! exhibit the captive foe who once led
+Israel captive! let the spoils of triumphant war be shown, and thou and
+thy father's name shall be had in everlasting remembrance!]</p>
+
+<p>13. Then he made him that remaineth have dominion over the nobles among
+the people; the Lord made me have dominion over the mighty. [Alas! to what
+a wretched state was Israel reduced: but even this remnant of former
+greatness, this weak and dispirited handful, God employed to crush the
+power of Canaan and the presumption of her nobles and, be it spoken to his
+glory, the Lord made even me, a feeble woman, the conqueror of formidable
+armies, and the saviour of a sinking state.]</p>
+
+<p>14. Out of Ephraim was there a root of them against Amalek, after thee,
+Benjamin, among thy people out of Machii, came down governors, and out of
+Zebulun, they that handle the pen of the writer. [Those noble warriors who
+hastened to the conflict with so much courage, and conquered with so much
+glory, have not only rendered themselves, but their tribes, for ever
+illustrious, Ephraim originated the expedition, who had, on a former
+occasion, discomfited Amalek, and now manifested an heroic zeal against
+them and the confederates of Jabin, Benjamin caught the holy infection of
+hatred against the enemies of the Lord, and first rushed to the fierce
+encounter, Machir, the half tribe of Manasseh, despatched her great men
+with their forces, and Zebulon sent her sons more famed indeed, as a
+commercial tribe, for handling the pen than the sword, but who readily
+came forward to aid the common cause.]</p>
+
+<p>15. And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah, even Issachar and also
+Barak; he was sent on foot into the valley. For the divisions of Reuben
+there were great thoughts of heart. [The chiefs of Issachar repaired to
+Deborah and Barak in Mount Tabor, and with them the strength of their
+tribe. They descended into the valley as foot soldiers, with Barak, and
+trembled not at the chariots and cavalry of Sisera. But alas! for Reuben,
+whose internal dissentions issued in a shameful neutrality, a circumstance
+deeply perplexing and vexatious to their brethren.]</p>
+
+<p>16. Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the
+flocks? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart.
+[Why didst thou obey the dictates of a selfish spirit and a carnal policy,
+and while engrossed with thy flocks and herds, refusedst to listen to the
+cries of thy brethren in distress, and the loud calls of Deborah and
+Barak? Alas, for the dissentions of Reuben! What painful thoughts, what
+dreadful anxieties were occasioned by such unaccountable and
+unpatriotic conduct!]</p>
+
+<p>17. Gilead abode beyond Jordan, and why did Dan remain in ships? Asher
+continued on the sea-shore, and abode in his breaches. [Influenced by a
+similar temper, Gilead, or Gad, remained inactive, in their possessions
+beyond Jordan, as though, happy themselves, they were insensible to the
+miseries of others, and why didst thou, O Dan, regarding only thy
+merchandise and thy gainful navigation, continue motionless in the day of
+our calamity! And see how Asher imitated the base example, abiding within
+the ruined walls of his cities, and in his bays and havens!]</p>
+
+<p>18. Zebulun and Naphtah were a people that jeoparded their lives unto the
+death in the high places of the field. [But Zebulon and Naphtah have
+acquired immortal renown, by cheerfully hazarding their lives and their
+all, when they assembled in the heights of Tabor, and impetuously rushed
+upon the foe in the valley where Kishon flows. [<a href="#foot31">31</a>]]</p>
+
+<p>19. The kings came and fought, then fought the kings of Canaan in Taanach,
+by the waters of Megiddo they took no gain of money. [Dire was the strife
+and vast the struggle when the confederate kings of Canaan fought in
+Taanach, and near Megiddo, to which places in the tribe of Issachar their
+mighty forces extended. They pressed eagerly and freely to the war, but
+how were their vain hopes disappointed when they returned without spoils.]</p>
+
+<p>20. They fought from heaven, the stars in their courses fought against
+Sisera. [The awful contest was decided by the God of heaven. His angels,
+his elements--all nature aided our righteous cause; and the stars of the
+firmament lighted our midnight pursuit, and shone disastrously upon the
+fugitive enemy.]</p>
+
+<p>21. The river of Kishon swept them away, that ancient river, the river
+Kishon. O my soul, thou hast trodden down strength! [The river Kishon
+rising, as if elated with joy at the opportunity, and overflowing its
+banks, swept thousands away; that river, celebrated in ancient times, and
+the witness of former conflicts. O Deborah, thou art indeed thrice happy
+in becoming the favoured instrument of exciting this glorious war, and
+thus eventually of crushing a most formidable confederacy!]</p>
+
+<p>22. Then were the horse-hoofs broken by means of the prancings, the
+prancings of then mighty ones. [The war-horse, urged in his rapid flight
+over the flinty soil, cut his hoofs to pieces; or entangled amidst the
+overflowings of Kishon, pranced, and foamed, and perished. [<a href="#foot32">32</a>]]</p>
+
+<p>23. Curse ye Meroz, said the angel of the Lord; curse ye bitterly the
+inhabitants thereof, because they came not to the help of the Lord, the
+help of the Lord against the mighty. [The angel, who preceded our hosts as
+the sword of an irresistible Providence, denounced a curse upon the city
+of Meroz, and commanded us to cherish a holy indignation against its
+lukewarm inhabitants, who, instead of resisting the giant armies of
+Canaan, remained as uninterested or timid spectators of the
+dreadful battle.]</p>
+
+<p>24. Blessed above women shall Jael, the wife be of Heber the Kenite, be;
+blessed shall she be above women in the tent. [But feminine heroism shall
+exhibited in honourable contrast with such shameful neutrality. Let the
+benediction of heaven rest upon the head of Jael, the wife of Heber the
+Kenite, above all other women! Blessed shall she be above all other
+female, heads of families who remained at home, having with
+masculine-courage completed in her tent, what was so happily begun in
+the field.]</p>
+
+<p>25. He asked water, and she gave him milk; she brought forth butter in a
+lordly dish. [Sisera, famished and fainting, requested water to allay his
+thirst; she opened a leathern bottle, and with feigned respect presented
+him with butter-milk; yes, she poured him out butter-milk in a vessel of
+copper, such as nobles use. [<a href="#foot33">33</a>]]</p>
+
+<p>26. She put her hand to the nail, and her right hand to the workmen's
+hammer; and with the hammer she smote Sisera; she smote off his head, when
+she had pierced and stricken through his temples. [Lulled into a fatal
+security by her deceptive homage, he slept--to wake no more! She seized a
+nail of her tent, and a hammer, approached in cautious silence the
+sleeping adversary of Israel, and, animated by an irresistible impulse of
+patriotic zeal, she drove it through his temples, and cut off his head.]</p>
+
+<p>27. At her feet he bowed, he fell, he lay down; at her feet he bowed, he
+fell: where he bowed, there he fell down dead. [Thus fell the great
+instrument of Canaanitish oppression at the feet of a woman; thus
+ingloriously he perished [<a href="#foot34">34</a>]]</p>
+
+<p>28. The mother of Sisera looked out at a window and cried through the
+lattice, Why is his chariot so long in coming? Why tarry the wheels of his
+chariots? [O day of triumph! Methinks the mother of Sisera, anticipating
+the fruits of victory, and the final subjection of all Israel to their
+oppressor's yoke, stood at her window, chiding the tardy moments, and
+impatiently exclaiming from behind the lattice-work, Why is the chariot of
+our victorious general so long in returning? Whence this painful delay?
+Hasten, ye fleet animals that draw his chariots, and restore him to our
+embraces!]</p>
+
+<p>29. Her wise ladies answered her, yea, she returned answer to herself,</p>
+
+<p>30. Have they not sped? have they not divided the prey; to every man a
+damsel or two, to Sisera a prey of divers colours, a prey of divers
+colours of needle work, of divers colours of needle work on both sides,
+meet for the necks of them that take the spoil? [Her maids of honour, who
+were scarcely less eager than herself to see the laurelled conqueror,
+answered her; yea, chiding for a moment her own impatient expressions, as
+if they indicated a doubt of success, she said within herself, Have they
+not succeeded in discovering the enemy?--Doubtless they have, Have they
+not enriched them selves with immense booty, and apportioned an
+Israelitish damsel two to our brave warriors?--Yes, yes, this must
+occasion some delay, and let them enjoy the reward of their valour. As for
+Sisera, the most beautiful captives are his portion, and shall be the
+slaves of his will; the most elegant dresses, curiously interwoven and
+wrought with the needle, such as may well be deemed worthy of heroes,
+shall grace his triumph and heighten his renown.]</p>
+
+<p>31. So let all thine enemies perish, O Lord let them that love him be as
+the sun when he goeth forth in his might. [But who can describe their
+utter disappointment! So shamefully, so totally, let all the enemies of
+thy people, and all the opponents of thy dominion in the earth perish, O
+Lord, from before thy face forever! But let all those who are animated
+with a sacred zeal for thy glory resemble the morning sun as he advances
+rapidly to his meridian splendour; let them increase in usefulness,
+influence, and esteem, the honour of human nature, and the lights of
+the world.]</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="09"></a>Manoah's Wife.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter IX.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  State of Israel--Appearance of an Angel to the Wife of Manoah--She
+  communicates the Design of his Visit to her Husband--Second
+  Manifestation from Heaven--Result of the Interview--Reflection of
+  Manoah's Wife stated and analyzed--Considerations deducible from the
+  Narrative--to avoid Precipitancy of Judgment--to avow our Convictions at
+  every suitable Opportunity--to feel assured that the Providence of God
+  does never really, though it may apparently, contradict his word.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>Obscurity of station or of birth has no tendency to prelude the favour of
+God. In this respect, he "seeth not as a man seeth," but, in the past
+dispensations of his mercy, appears to have preferred the lowly as objects
+of high and distinguishing manifestations. This is the case in the
+Christian era, and to the present hour the stream of celestial goodness
+pursues its silent and chosen course, chiefly down the vales of poverty
+and wretchedness.</p>
+
+<p>We see from the histories of Scripture, that in seasons of national
+defection, there have existed pleasing instances of individual piety.
+Amidst universal darkness, some stars of considerable magnitude have shed
+a light, though comparatively feeble, athwart the moral hemisphere. God
+has never totally suspended his intercourse with man, even in the worst of
+times, nor suffered the series of his communications to be entirely
+broken. If, during certain disastrous periods, truth has been eclipsed, it
+has not been extinguished: the watchful eye of Providence has never been
+removed from the earth, nor has the divine hand ceased to interpose in
+terrestrial affairs.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 1156.]</p>
+
+<p>The history of Manoah and his wife is introduced by an allusion to the
+state of Israel. This people, in consequence of returning to the
+commission of those sins for which they were so notorious, were delivered
+up to their oppressors forty years. The Philistines were, in fact, very
+inconsiderable, in comparison to the Israelites, having only five cities
+of any importance; yet they were the appointed scourge in the divine hand
+to chastise his people. Thus he imparts power to the weak, or enfeebles
+the energy of the strong, to accomplish his omniscient purposes.</p>
+
+<p>On a certain occasion, an angel of the Lord appeared to the wife of Manoah
+with most welcome tidings. She was a sufferer from the same cause which
+tried the faith and patience of so many of the illustrious females of
+patriarchal age: and, to alleviate those painful anxieties which good
+people at that period were accustomed to cherish for a family, but
+especially to evince the unceasing regard of Heaven to the interests of
+Israel, the commissioned spirit announced to her the conception of a son;
+and giving her at the same time some directions respecting her own mode of
+living, and the devotement of the future Samson as a Nazarite from the
+womb, assured her that be should become the deliverer of Israel from
+Philistine subjection. It does not seem as if she were commanded to tell
+her husband; nevertheless, she immediately hastens to disclose to him
+every circumstance that had transpired. To whom could she so properly
+confide this important secret? who, excepting herself, could be so deeply
+interested; or who so worthy of sharing her utmost confidence? Between
+relatives so dear, and so closely allied, there should be few or no
+concealments. On every subject they are entitled to reciprocal confidence,
+which is the life of friendship and the soul of love: and whither it be
+for advice or for congratulation, the husband should share the feelings,
+the sympathies, the unreserved affections of the wife, and the wife those
+of her husband. These tender relatives may derive advantage especially
+from reciprocal communications on religious topics, and points of pious
+experience. By this means, they may sweeten and sanctify domestic
+enjoyments; by this renew and purify the flame of affection.</p>
+
+<p>The simplicity and veracity of the wife of Manoah appear in her address to
+him. "Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, A man of God came
+unto me, and his countenance was like the countenance of an angel of God,
+very terrible; but I asked him not whence he was, neither told he me his
+name. But he said unto me, Behold, thou shalt conceive and bear a son; and
+now drink no wine, nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing; for
+the child shall be a Nazarite to God, from the womb to the day of
+his death."</p>
+
+<p>The injunction respecting her own abstinence was no arbitrary requirement,
+but was founded in nature and reason. The temper of the mind, is
+materially affected by the state of the body, and both may concur in
+communicating permanent impressions from the mother to her offspring,
+which often affect the comfort of existence.</p>
+
+<p>The condition to which her child was thus devoted requires a brief
+historical elucidation. The term Nazarite signifies <i>separated</i>; and is
+commonly applied to persons who make a vow to live in a more holy manner
+than others, either during a certain specified number of years, or ever
+after the pledge is given, without recantation or change. The Nazarite
+abstained from every kind of intoxicating liquor, "from wine and strong
+drink," from vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink, and from grapes,
+whether moist or dried; he was to let his hair grow, and upon no pretext
+whatever to approach a dead body, though it were to render funeral honours
+to a father or mother. If, during the period of a vow, the Nazarite
+neglected any of these injunctions, the whole ceremony was to recommence.
+The least admissible time for this consecration was, according to some of
+the Jewish Rabbins, thirty days; and the perpetual Nazarite whose hair had
+been allowed to grow for many years, might cut it once. At the expiration
+of the appointed term, various sacrifices were to be offered, a particular
+enumeration of which is given in the sixth chapter of the book of Numbers.
+After this, the priest shaved the head of the Nazarite at the door of the
+tabernacle, and burnt his hair on the fire of the altar. If the person
+died previous to the expiration of his vow, his son was required to
+fulfil the time, and offer the same sacrifices. Perpetual Nazarites, like
+Samson, were consecrated by their parents; but there is a peculiarity
+attaching to him above all others of whom we read, being devoted even
+before his birth. Similar rites were observed amongst the heathen,
+especially the Egyptians, the Greeks, and the Romans, the origin of which
+is unquestionably to be referred to the Jewish law. [<a href="#foot35">35</a>]</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Manoah was informed by his wife of the visit she had received,
+and the delightful promises she had heard, he entreated God to permit the
+return of the messenger, whom he supposed to have been a prophet. "When,"
+says Bishop Hall, "I see the strength of Manoah's faith, I marvel not that
+he had a Samson to his son: he saw not the messenger, he beard not the
+errand, he examined not the circumstances; yet now he takes thought, not
+whether he should have a son, but how he shall order the son which he must
+have; and sues to God, not for the son which as yet he had not, but for
+the direction of governing him, when he should be. Zachary had the same
+message, and craving a sign, lost that voice wherewith he craved it.
+Manoah seeks no sign for the promise, but counsel for himself; and yet
+that angel spake to Zachary himself, this only to the wife of Manoah; that
+in the temple like a glorious spirit, this in the house or field, like
+some prophet or traveller; that to a priest, this to a woman. All good men
+have not equal measures of faith; the bodies of men have not more
+differences of stature, than their graces. Credulity to men is faulty and
+dangerous, but, in the matters of God, is the greatest virtue of a
+Christian. Happy are they that have not seen, yet believed. True faith
+takes all for granted, yea, for performed, which is once promised.</p>
+
+<p>"He that before sent his angel unasked, will much more send him again upon
+entreaty; those heavenly messengers are ready, both to obey their Maker,
+and to relieve his children. Never any man prayed for direction in his
+duties to God and was repulsed; rather will God send an angel from heaven
+to instruct us, than our good desires shall be frustrated."</p>
+
+<p>Upon his reappearance, the angel did not present himself to Manoah, though
+he came in answer to his supplications; but to his wife as she sat alone
+in the field. She immediately hastened to her husband, who gladly returned
+with her to the spot; and hearing from her own lips, that it was the same
+remarkable visitor she had so recently seen, he expressed his faith in the
+promise, and his solicitude for the child. His wife concurred in every
+desire; and his inquiry was, in fact, equally her own. "How shall we order
+the child, and how shall we do unto him?" The angel repeated his former
+injunctions, which this pious female was ready to observe.</p>
+
+<p>Good people commence their plans, and offer their prayers, in behalf of
+children, even before their birth; feeling the weight of that
+responsibility which the parental relationship incurs, and knowing well
+the early trials and dangers that await their little ones. The tears and
+concerns that attend the period of parental anticipation, mingle with the
+transports which accompany their nativity, and stimulate their future
+exertions to train them up in the ways of religion. How gladly do they
+make considerable sacrifices of time and property to this object; and how
+richly are the maternal pangs repaid, when true wisdom guides the steps
+of their youthful charge into paths of pleasantness and peace! The mercies
+of Providence are ill requited, when the parents never inquire, like
+Manoah and his wife, "How shall we order the child?" If incapable of
+properly cultivating the infant mind themselves, either on account of
+their own ignorance, from their too abundant occupation, or from an
+unprincipled disregard to the best interests of the little immortals
+intrusted to their care; it is a happiness for the present generation,
+that so many benevolent institutions exist, which invite the poor and the
+neglected to their parental guidance. But let parents, and especially
+Christian parents, consider it one of their first duties, one of their
+noblest privileges, to implant the good seed of knowledge in their hearts,
+which in its future developements, may not only expand their faculties and
+dignify their characters, but render them the ornaments' of society, the
+comfort of their parents, the guides and examples of posterity, and the
+objects of divine approbation.</p>
+
+<p>Hitherto these two favoured individuals had no idea of the being they were
+addressing, but still supposing him to be an ordinary prophet, Manoah, in
+the true spirit of eastern hospitality, requested permission to dress a
+kid for his refreshment. He was, besides, animated with a sense of
+gratitude for the joyful news he communicated. The angel declined his
+offer, assuring him, though he remained with him a little while, he should
+not take any food; but that if he designed to offer a burnt-offering, he
+ought to be careful not to imitate the prevailing enormity of sacrificing
+to strange gods, but to worship God.</p>
+
+<p>Manoah now became anxious to know the stranger's name, that he might have
+an opportunity of hereafter expressing his gratitude and affection, by
+informing him of the birth of his predicted offspring, and making suitable
+acknowledgments for his kindness. This request was refused; and he was
+assured it was "a secret," and must remain concealed. This was a
+sufficient reply to Manoah and his wife, who did not presume, with an
+impertinent eagerness, to press the question. Many secret things belong to
+God; and it is the province of true piety to repress curiosity, where it
+is not authorized, or would be useless. All impatience, we should often
+take wing, and pursue our adventurous flight through all the regions of
+possible knowledge, and beyond the limits of Scriptural revelation; but,
+"Why askest thou?"--"What is that to thee?"--Truth is disclosed in all its
+essentials--regard thy duty, and listen to thy Saviour--"follow me."</p>
+
+<p>Many expositors have concurred in rendering the words of the angel thus,
+"Why askest thou after my name, seeing it is WONDERFUL?" and for an
+explanation of the epithet, they refer to the sublime description of
+Isaiah, "His name shall be called WONDERFUL, Counsellor, the mighty God,
+the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." If this be correct, the
+ministering spirit, concealing his glory in the form of a man, was no
+other than the Angel of the covenant, the Wisdom, the Word, and the Son of
+God. If, after his resurrection from the dead, and immediately previous to
+his reascension to the glories of eternity, when invested with the
+character of the Conqueror of death and hell, he appeared to two of his
+disciples on the way to Emmaus whom he had so recently left, without their
+suspecting who it was, "for their eyes were holden, that they should not
+know him?" it cannot be deemed an improbable circumstance in itself, that
+on this occasion he should have been divested of all his splendid
+peculiarities, to fulfil so interesting a mission to these worthy
+Danites, to authorize so unusual a sacrifice, and to accomplish so
+glorious a mode of disappearance.</p>
+
+<p>Manoah now proceeded to present an offering to the Lord, presenting, as
+was customary, a meat-offering with his burnt-offering. He was not indeed
+a priest, nor was this the place; but it was not requisite to go to the
+tabernacle in Shiloh, when his divine visiter had already dispensed them
+from the circumstantials, by sanctioning the sacrifice here. "Audit came
+to pass, when the flame went up towards heaven from off the altar, that
+the angel of the Lord ascended in the flame of the altar; and Manoah and
+his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground." This was,
+at once, a proof of the full acceptance of their sacrifice; and
+irresistibly convinced them, they had been conversing with a divine
+personage. "And Manoah said unto his wife, We shall surely die, because we
+have seen God. But his wife said unto him, IF THE LORD WERE PLEASED TO
+KILL US, HE WOULD NOT HAVE RECEIVED A BURNT-OFFERING AND A MEAT-OFFERING
+AT OUR HANDS; NEITHER WOULD HE HAVE SHOWED US ALL THESE THINGS, NOR WOULD,
+AS AT THIS TIME, HAVE TOLD US SUCH THINGS AS THESE."</p>
+
+<p>Considering all the circumstances, this was very remarkable language, and
+merits attention; not only as illustrative of the character of this
+excellent woman, but as furnishing a principle of sound and legitimate
+reasoning in the concerns of religion.</p>
+
+<p>At first, being overawed by the majestic manifestation, both these pious
+people fell prostrate in the dust. A reverential awe pervaded their
+bosoms, at a sight so wonderful and so unexpected. The sentiments they
+felt were, doubtless, allied to those which dictated the exclamation of
+Jacob, "How dreadful is this place! this is none other than the house of
+God, and this is the gate of heaven:" or the humble tone of Isaiah, "Wo is
+me, for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell among
+a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of
+Hosts." But if the divine appearance in mercy proved so terrific and
+overwhelming to pious persons in those extraordinary times; how tremendous
+will the second appearance of Christ in judgment be to his enemies, with
+the glory of his Father, and all the holy angels! If the splendour of his
+grace confound a mortal eye; what must be the lightning of his
+indignation, how intolerable the flaming fire of his displeasure!</p>
+
+<p>On this occasion, Manoah appears the weaker believer. He thought of
+nothing but death; he expresses his confidence of perishing, and assigns a
+reason, which, however weak, is sufficiently accounted for by the extreme
+terror of his mind, and the universal prejudice of that age: "We shall
+surely die, for we have seen God." Even good men are sometimes tempted to
+listen to the suggestions of nature, rather than to the assurances of
+revelation; and to dread as an evil, what in their better moments is
+anticipated as a good. If death were the extinction of being, it might
+excite alarm; but, if it be only the means of our purification, and the
+preparatory process to fit the spiritual character for the felicities of a
+higher existence, it should, and often does, awaken pleasure. If, even
+while the shroud is worn by the body, the spirit is clothed with the
+garments of salvation, and that shroud will soon be exchanged for the
+white robe of purity and heaven; what is there to prevent our adopting the
+words of an apostle, "I have a <i>desire</i> to depart, and to be with Christ,
+which is far better?" If the apprehensions of Manoah had been really well
+founded, and himself and his beloved partner had yielded Up their spirits
+on that memorable spot; who can say it would have proved an undesirable
+exchange? As the servants of the living God, they were prepared for all
+events, and for either world. Their union could never have been dissolved,
+and the sphere of their spiritual discoveries would have been amply
+enlarged. To see God is the antidote, and not the occasion, of death; the
+hope, and not the terror, of the believer.</p>
+
+<p>It is not difficult, however, to ascertain the reason why this prejudice
+so early and so extensively influenced the pious in primitive times. It
+arose from a consciousness of guilt, and a dread of merited punishment. As
+a sinner, man must necessarily tremble at the thought of his approaching
+God, or at the communication of any message from his throne: when God
+opens his mouth, he naturally fears the sentence; when tidings arrive from
+the invisible world, he dreads their purport, and conscience suggests that
+even the most favourable manifestations may be blended with tokens of
+displeasure. Every approach of the Deity is liable to excite confusion to
+a guilty world; and a sense of demerit may lead us not only to expect a
+war-rant for execution when a reprieve is coming; but at first, like
+Manoah, to mistake and misinterpret the sign.</p>
+
+<p>The wife of this good man entertained no such fears. With a faith which
+penetrated the divine intentions, at least in part, and which elevated her
+not only above the prejudices of the age, but gave her a decided
+superiority over her trembling partner, she suggested a far different
+conclusion, and intimated the reason on which it was founded. Her
+conclusions, the very opposite to his--so different are the <i>degrees</i> of
+grace in different characters--were deduced from three considerations.
+Each of these, in her view, was a decisive evidence against his
+suggestion, and a consoling reflection in this extraordinary and
+ambiguous moment.</p>
+
+<p>The first was, <i>the acceptance of their sacrifices</i>. "If," said she, "the
+Lord be pleased to kill us, he would not have received a burnt-offering
+and a meat-offering at our hands." The law which prescribed the
+presentation of sacrifices, expressly represented them as "a <i>sweet
+savour</i> unto the Lord;" which implied not only an approbation of the
+offering, which was indeed of divine appointment, and could not therefore
+be rejected, but complacency in the worshipper. The <i>person</i> could not be
+disowned, while the <i>presentation</i> was acknowledged. If this sentiment
+needed any corroboration, the history of Cain and Abel would have
+furnished it. The acceptance and rejection of each was evinced by the
+divine treatment of their respective offerings. "The Lord had respect unto
+Abel, and to his offering: but unto Cain, and to his offering, he had not
+respect." When God entered into a solemn covenant with Abram, "a smoking
+furnace and a burning lamp passed between the divided pieces of the
+sacrifice, and consumed them." At the dedication of the tabernacle, when
+"the glory of the Lord appeared unto all the people, there came a fire out
+from before the Lord, and consumed upon the altar the burnt-offering and
+the fat; which when all the people saw, they shouted and fell on their.
+faces." The dedication of the temple was signalized by a similar
+manifestation. "Now, when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire
+came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt-offering, and the
+sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house!" The same
+principle is fully-recognized by David, in the following supplications:
+"The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble, the name of the God of Jacob
+defend thee: Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of
+Zion: Remember all thy burnt-offerings, and accept thy burnt-sacrifice."
+The argument, therefore, of Manoah's wife was pious, legitimate, and
+conclusive: "if <i>we</i> were to be destroyed, our <i>services</i> could not be
+approved."</p>
+
+<p>The people of God too frequently resemble Manoah; but their doubts and
+fears would soon subside, could they be persuaded to adopt the reasoning
+of his wife. Past experience is a solid basis for future expectations. A
+succession of spiritual mercies is a pledge of kind intention, and of
+continued favour. In periods of despondency, recur to days of religious
+prosperity and happiness, when the candle of the Lord shone upon you, and
+spiritual enjoyments were dispensed in the use of means. Have you not good
+evidence, that your sacrifices <i>have been</i> received--your prayers heard,
+your dedication to God accepted? Have the spirit and efficacy of his
+promise evaporated in the lapse of time, "I will never leave you, nor
+forsake you?" or have you no reason to say with holy anticipation, "Surely
+goodness and mercy <i>shall</i> follow me all the days of my life, and I will
+dwell in the house of the Lord for ever?"</p>
+
+<p>Feeble, imperfect, and disproportionate to our obligations, as all our
+offerings must be, they are acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. He has
+presented a sacrifice, "once for all," upon the cross, to which this
+subject naturally directs our attention, which constitutes the foundation
+of human hope, and secures a welcome reception, and gives an available
+power to all the future offerings of faith. The figurative nature of the
+ancient dispensations renders it not improbable, that these humble
+Israelites perceived, in the memorable transactions they witnessed, some
+typical representation of the work of redemption, some glimpses of the
+great atonement, and of the principle upon which what they offered was
+accepted. This event was not intended merely to astonish or overawe, but
+to instruct; and the wife of Manoah presents a noble example of that
+profound attention, which it becomes us to pay to all the revelations of
+Heaven. If, in particular, the "angels desire to look into" the mysteries
+of redeeming love, and consider the sabbath of eternity well employed in
+this research; mortals surely, who are more nearly interested, cannot
+devote the less sacred hours of time to a more important inquiry. Nor
+should they be satisfied with superficial, or indeed with <i>any</i>
+attainments in spiritual wisdom, which is so unfathomable in its depths,
+and illimitable in its extent.</p>
+
+<p>The second consideration, which led to the inference in their own favour
+drawn by Manoah's wife, was <i>the wonders which the angel had shown them</i>.
+These were of a nature, in her belief, to justify her conclusion, that God
+did by no means purpose their ruin, but the reverse. It appears from the
+general expression, that "the angel did wondrously," in connection with
+the mention of "<i>all</i> these things," that some other manifestations,
+probably of a hieroglyphic or typical nature, were given antecedently, or
+as an immediate preparation to his miraculous ascent in the flame of the
+altar. This at least is certain, making a general application of the
+statement, that we are not only authorized to conclude from the privileges
+we enjoy, but from the spiritual discoveries we have made, that God is our
+Father and our Friend. He would not have pointed out our danger, and
+exhibited our remedy, if he had designed our ruin. Were we appointed to
+perish in our guilt, "the Physician of souls" would never have been
+commissioned to visit us. To be shown, by Scriptural statement, by
+ministerial instruction, and by providential guidance, the way to heaven,
+is no indication of an appointment to destruction. Have you not discovered
+the evil of sin, the value of the soul, and the excellency of Christ? Have
+you not felt the sorrows of repentance, and the joys of faith? Have you
+not touched the outstretched sceptre, submitted to the chastising rod, and
+gloried in the cross? God does not impart a fixed aversion to all
+iniquity, an intense desire after holiness, habitual delight in his word,
+and desire after his presence and glory; he does not impress a sense of
+the infinite excellence of the Saviour, and a readiness to sacrifice every
+thing to his will, and for his sake, excepting to holy souls, which are
+"born, not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."</p>
+
+<p>The wife of Manoah adverted to a third source of consolation, at the
+period of this miraculous disappearance. She refers to <i>what they were
+told</i>. The assurances they had received of the birth of a son, rendered it
+impossible they should die. She had received very minute directions, both
+respecting her offspring and herself, who was to be consecrated as a
+Nazarite, and to rise up as the deliverer of his country from the yoke of
+Philistia. Possibly, during the preparation of the sacrifice, the
+inquisitive spirit of this thoughtful woman induced her to seek a
+conversation, which the celestial messenger was not unwilling to
+encourage, and during which they might have received some further
+instructions. Our fears are apt to betray us into absurdities, and confuse
+the memory; so that good men, like Manoah, speak or act inconsistently
+with themselves, and their own more deliberate convictions. Happy they who
+are blessed with an intelligent awl pious companion, whose kind
+suggestions may detect their errors, refresh their recollections, quell
+their fears, and comfort their desponding hours! Thus "two are better than
+one, because they have a good reward for their labour. For, if they fall,
+the one will lift up his fellow: but wo to him that is alone when he
+falleth; for he hath not another to help him."</p>
+
+<p>Obvious but important considerations are deducible from this narrative,
+which seem capable of an application to the general concerns of life, as
+well as to the inquiries of religion.</p>
+
+<p>1. We should avoid precipitancy of judgment. The wife of Manoah, in this
+view, appears in advantageous contrast to her hasty husband. She did not
+suffer herself to be hurried into a discouraging inference, without
+reviewing the circumstances of the case, and allowing time for reflection.
+In the common affairs of life, an inconsiderate eagerness, either to
+escape from danger or to possess good, is often itself productive of the
+disappointment it dreads; while a proper deliberation prepares the mind
+either for failure or success: and, in the pursuit of moral and religions
+inquiries, the same precipitancy is calculated to plunge into error,
+which, if it do not always endanger our salvation, may disturb our peace.
+Jesus Christ has expressly exhorted us to close and deliberate
+investigation, intimating that our labour will be repaid by discovery; for
+"searching the Scriptures," and acquiring a knowledge of him respecting
+whom they "testify," and "whom to know is life eternal," are inseparably
+connected. On another occasion, when describing the true hearer of his
+word, he suggests a comparison equally and beautifully illustrative of the
+necessity of a diligent use of the means of instruction, and that serious,
+profound, and careful inquiry, which is calculated to prevent an implicit
+submission to the opinion of others, or taking our religion upon trust.
+"Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will
+show you to whom he is like. He is like a man which built a house, and
+digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock; and when the flood arose,
+the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it, for it
+was founded upon a rock."</p>
+
+<p>2. It is wise, and may be useful, on all proper occasions, to avow our
+convictions. Selfishness and timidity may concur to suggest a different
+proceeding: but religion requires that we act upon principles superior to
+those of worldly policy. Manoah had every reason to be grateful to his
+wife, for the distinct and prompt avowal of her sentiments; which, though
+contradictory to his, were adapted to rouse him from his despondency and
+stupor. She was, no doubt, ready to sympathize with his distress; but duty
+to God, attachment to her husband, a consciousness of knowing the truth,
+and even a proper respect to herself, prompted a statement of her
+disagreement with his opinions. When religion claims our services, we must
+not withhold the offering of our lips, or the labour of our hands, through
+fear of danger or hope of gain. When truth demands that we should speak,
+or Providence that we should act, it would be criminal--it would be
+disgraceful, to continue silent or inactive.</p>
+
+<p>To generalize and apply these remarks to the circumstances in which
+Christianity has placed us--it is required not only to believe in Christ,
+but explicitly to avow our sentiments of attachment to his Gospel by a
+public profession, whether we meet with the concurrence, or suffer the
+opposition, of our dearest friends. Timidity is natural to the female
+mind; but religion requires even the youngest and the weakest of the sex,
+not to suffer even natural delicacy to degenerate, by excessive
+indulgence, into criminal shame. It does more, it enables women to become
+heroes and martyrs! Inflamed with the love it inspires, they have learned
+to see no lions, to fear no dangers, to feel no pains in the path of duty;
+not only evincing patience, but expressing joy.</p>
+
+<p>Jesus Christ was "not ashamed to call us <i>brethren</i>," to assume our
+nature, to fill our humble station, to suffer our sorrows, or to die for
+us an ignominious death; he is not ashamed to own his connection with us
+now he is in the highest heavens, or to be engaged in preparing a mansion,
+in his Father's house, for our final reception. Shall we be ashamed of
+him, or of his cause? Shall we tremble to avow our attachment, if we feel
+it? This would expose us to the censure of our own consciences, to the
+reproach of a dishonourable, hesitating, indecisive conduct; and, above
+all, to the Saviour's final malediction, as the Judge of mankind. It is
+the design of Christ to establish an interest in the world; and this is to
+be maintained, not by fear, but by firmness: not by temporal compliances,
+but by holy resistance; not by sloth, inactivity, and shrinking into a
+corner, but by "putting on the whole armour of God." Not to be <i>for</i>
+Christ is to be <i>against</i> him--neutrality is enmity--a refusal to enlist
+under his banners is disloyalty, rebellion, and treason!</p>
+
+<p>3. The providence of God does never <i>really</i>, though it may <i>apparently</i>
+and to human apprehension, contradict his word or discredit his character.
+The present manifestation of the angel in flame and terror, did not
+subvert the confidence which the wife of Manoah felt in his past
+declarations, nor excite despondency respecting future events. The fears
+of her husband did not shake her faith in the promises of God, nor did the
+incomprehensible nature of the mystery blind her perceptions of the
+concealed mercy. We are very inadequate judges of the divine conduct. It
+is neither possible, nor proper, that we should know the mighty plan of
+his operations; and it can never be a sufficient reason, even under the
+most disastrous circumstances, for questioning the goodness or wisdom of
+his dispensations that <i>we</i> cannot comprehend them. The designs of God are
+very imperfectly unravelled in the present world. We can see but to a
+short distance, nor is it necessary that we should. <i>Some</i> light from the
+sacred page beams across the path of life; but if we cannot at present
+attain all we may wish to know, let us be contented to wait for the
+manifestations of eternity. In the mean time we may rest assured, that
+whatever is thought contradictory in the dispensations of Providence to
+the written word, is but <i>seemingly</i> so. It is so merely because we cannot
+now see the connecting links, the unbroken chain of events, which, when
+the clouds that obscure this earthly atmosphere shall be finally
+dispersed, will become distinctly and for ever visible.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="10"></a>Hannah.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter X.</h3>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="10-1"></a>Section I.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Religion a Source of Peace--Account of Elkanah and his two
+  Wives--Peninnah reproaches Hannah--Sin of despising others for their
+  Infirmities--the Family at Shiloh--Elkanah endeavours to console his
+  Wife--her Conduct and Prayer--Eli's unjust Imputation--Hannah's Defence,
+  and her Accuser's Retractation--Return from Shiloh--Birth of
+  Samuel--his Weaning.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>"Where there is <i>piety</i>," says an excellent commentator, "'tis pity but
+there should be <i>unity.</i>" There is, however, too frequent occasion to
+deplore the dissentions of families, whose religious profession induces
+us to expect the prevalence of peace and harmony. Nevertheless, these
+inconsistencies are so far from being justly chargeable upon religion,
+that they furnish the most decisive evidence of its value. It is in
+consequence of a departure from its genuine spirit, and a compliance with
+the suggestion of evil principles and passions, that individuals are
+rendered miserable and families distracted. The renewal of that "right
+spirit" which it inculcates, is the direct means of restoring personal
+comfort and domestic tranquillity.</p>
+
+<p>The Psalmist represents "the law of the Lord" as "<i>perfect:"</i> it is the
+only solid-basis of human felicity; and every hope that is differently
+founded, must prove, inevitably prove, a shadowy super-structure. A
+deviation from the order and appointments of Heaven is a proportionate
+departure from happiness; for this order and these appointments do not
+result from caprice, but a perfect combination of goodness and wisdom. The
+divine system of legislation is formed with a merciful regard to our best
+interests, and an entire knowledge of our nature. Its arrangements are not
+arbitrary, but kind; and obedience is no less essential to our real
+welfare, both present and eternal, than it is expressive of a just regard
+to our obligations. In opposing the requirements of God, man is an enemy
+to himself; his resistance is not only culpable, but ruinous.</p>
+
+<p>These observations are fully exemplified in the history of Hannah, and the
+family of which she was the female head. Her husband, whose name was
+Elkanah, resided at a place in the tribe of Ephraim, called
+Ramathaim-zophim. He is mentioned as having descended from Zuph an
+Ephrathite, or inhabitant of Bethlehem-Judah, which is Ephratah, probably
+with the view of showing his connection with David. As persons have
+sometimes conferred distinction upon places, so places have occasionally
+dignified persons. Who would not have thought it an honour to be born at
+Bethlehem, whence the light of the world first proceeded, and where such
+wonderful events were to be afterward transacted? And yet it is but an
+adventitious honour, which will soon fade, if it be not sustained by
+personal character and real excellence.</p>
+
+<p>Elkanah had two wives; Hannah, the subject of this history, and Peninnah.
+Here we trace the origin of the infelicity of this religious household. It
+is strange that the experience of past ages, the incongruity of such a
+practice in itself, and the unauthorized nature of such a proceeding,
+should not have prevented him from forming two matrimonial connections at
+the same time. If polygamy were not expressly interdicted by a law, but
+rather tolerated in an age of imperfect revelation, like the plan of
+divorce to which our Saviour alludes, for "the hardness of their hearts;"
+it had plainly no foundation in reason, no sanction from Heaven; and not
+only no good consequences attached to it, but it was commonly attended
+with calamitous results. Every recorded instance of it proves its extreme
+inexpediency. It seldom failed to involve the comfort of all parties, and
+must be regarded as a proof of weakness, if not absolutely of a criminal
+indulgence of passion, even when adopted under the most plausible
+pretences. If the Creator had at first perceived that a plurality of wives
+was conducive to human felicity, he would have bestowed more than one upon
+man in his paradisiacal state. Infinite wisdom must have known what was
+really best; and the inspired narrative shows that infinite goodness
+pursued every conceivable method of completing the enjoyment of him who
+was placed, both in point of capacity and authority, at the summit
+of creation.</p>
+
+<p>There is a marked difference between the two women whom Elkanah had
+espoused. In most cases of contention, considerable blame attaches to all
+the parties concerned. We hear of provocations and insults on the one
+hand, of recriminations and resentments on the other. Whoever originates
+the dispute, an irreconcilcable spirit in both usually perpetuates it.
+Hannah, reproached as she was by Peninnah for her barrenness, does not
+seem to have returned railing for railing. The haughty behaviour, indeed,
+of her rival, made her the more deeply sensible of her affliction, and
+fretted her almost into despondency. Day after day, she was ridiculed for
+what implied no blame, and admitted of no remedy. With how much greater
+reason might she have retorted upon Peninnah her malignant temper and
+provoking tongue! What was her natural infirmity, in comparison with the
+slanderer's moral defilement! How misplaced the censures of the one! How
+admirable the patience of the other!</p>
+
+<p>This disagreement presents a fair occasion of remarking upon a practice
+too much tolerated in society, for which young persons especially cannot
+be too strongly reprehended. It is the cruel conduct of despising others
+for their natural imperfections, turning their blameless deformities into
+ridicule, and speaking ill of them for defects which ought rather to
+excite the deepest commiseration. Perhaps the persons who suffer this
+unmerited contempt, possess qualities of a mental and moral description,
+which ought to conciliate the esteem and excite the imitation of the fair
+and graceful slanderer. Perhaps they have a cultivated mind and a pious
+spirit, while she has nothing but a pretty countenance or an attractive
+form. But how ill is wisdom compensated by beauty, and how disgraceful is
+it to despise the work of God's hands! If the object of offensive remark
+should happen to be endowed with neither wisdom nor symmetry, is it
+becoming of you, my reader, to institute an arbitrary standard of
+gracefulness, and despise every one who has not attained it! Is it for you
+to aggravate as a crime, what reason teaches is, at worst, a misfortune?
+Is it for you to calumniate those who have given you no personal offence;
+who are, notwithstanding their disadvantages, good members of society; and
+if in some respects defective, may not be vicious? But if the latter were
+the case, if they exhibited a combination of exterior deformity and
+interior depravity, they would not then be the proper objects of
+<i>ridicule</i>. The former peculiarity would still merit pity, and indeed
+forbid observance; the latter would require more serious treatment.</p>
+
+<p>In many instances, perhaps in the majority, young persons are guilty of
+this misconduct through inadvertency. They have been stimulated to it by
+others, or they have never been impressed with a sense of its impropriety.
+It has been the result of thoughtlessness, rather than of malignity. It
+was not their design to injure, but to seek amusement. Let parents and
+tutors, therefore, explain the evil of such practices; let such as read
+these pages meditate upon its enormity, and be solicitous of cultivating
+those benign and benevolent feelings which peculiarly adorn their early
+age, and are inculcated by the religion and the example of Christ.</p>
+
+<p>To return to the family of Elkanah. This worthy man did not allow domestic
+dissentions to interrupt his religious duties. He went up to the worship
+of the Lord in Shiloh at the yearly festivals, according to the
+appointments of the law. "Unto the place which the Lord your God shall
+choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, even unto his
+habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shall come; and thither ye
+shall bring your burnt-offerings, and your sacrifices, and your tithes and
+heave-offerings of your hand, and your vows, and your free-will-offerings,
+and the firstlings of your herds and of your flocks. And there ye shall
+eat before the Lord your God, and ye shall rejoice in all that ye put your
+hand unto, you and your households, wherein the Lord thy God hath
+blessed thee."</p>
+
+<p>In the services of religion, it becomes us to ascend above all temporal
+considerations, and regard exclusively the will of God. Elkanah, however,
+even at the solemn and public festival, unhappily gave a worthy or double
+portion to Hannah, which was the ancient mode of expressing peculiar
+affection. This was likely to inflame, rather than to extinguish strife;
+and though done, no doubt, with the kind attention of alleviating the
+sorrows of his best beloved partner, was a sad display of weakness, and a
+miserable profanation of the worship of God. Peninnah had children, Hannah
+the affections of her husband; the former persecutes, and the other weeps.
+Who would not have indulged the pleasing hope, that the worship of God,
+that cement of society, that healing remedy for the disorders of the moral
+world, would have quieted contention; and that the flames of animosity
+would not have mingled with the hallowed fires of sacrifice! It was well
+meant in Elkanah to bring all his household together to the tabernacle
+in Shiloh--</p>
+
+<blockquote>"Religion should extinguish strife,<br />
+And make a calm of human life."</blockquote>
+
+<p>If we cannot be reconciled at the altar, it is an indication of rooted
+antipathy, and will neutralize the effect of our entreaties for divine
+forgiveness. "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord," said David,
+"will not hear me." The salutary effect of Elkanah's measure was prevented
+by the continuance of discord. Year after year this mischievous spirit
+prevailed. Elkanah was unable to conciliate Peninnah, or to sooth Hannah.
+The good man was rendered wretched, both by the temper of the one and the
+tears of the other: the latter, however, was the most intolerable.
+"Hannah," said he, "why weepest thou? why eatest thou not? and why is thy
+heart grieved? Am not I better to thee than ten sons?"</p>
+
+<p>There is something soothing and gentle in this remonstrance, which
+bespeaks the affection of Elkanah, and exhibits his pacific character in
+an advantageous light. He does not directly interpose to settle the point
+of domestic difference by the stern dictation of authority, but with a
+kind hand endeavours to wipe away the falling tears of his disconsolate
+wife. Nothing is more difficult than properly to administer reproof,
+except it be properly to receive it. Elkanah seems, on this occasion, to
+have managed it with extreme delicacy, and with happy success. He kindly
+insinuated, that she ought to feel consolation in her husband's regard;
+and that a becoming submission to Providence is at all times our duty. She
+might have suffered not only the affliction which she so deeply deplored,
+but the still greater distress of her partner's aversion. If he had been
+alienated, or even if his regard had been only diminished, there would
+have existed a more plausible pretence for incessant grief; but although
+Peninnah was blest with children, Hannah was best beloved. Would the
+latter have been willing to exchange advantages? would she have descended
+from a pre-eminence so justly valued, for the sake of a family? Doubtless
+it was her wish to unite these comforts; to retain the love of Elkanah,
+and to rival the children of Peninnah. But it is our duty, and would prove
+eminently conducive to our happiness, to improve the blessings we enjoy,
+rather than to cherish undue solicitude for what Providence does not see
+fit to confer.</p>
+
+<p>There does, by no means, exist that inequality in the distribution of
+divine favours, which our impatience tempts us to imagine. One thing is
+set over against another; comforts are associated with crosses: and if we
+were in a situation, or possessed a capacity, to estimate with exactness
+the proportion of good and evil in the individual condition of mankind, it
+is more than probable we should find the balances by which these
+proportions are determined most accurately poised. We <i>may</i> safely, and
+<i>ought</i> unhesitatingly, to trust the hands in which they are placed, and
+the power that regulates their distribution.</p>
+
+<p>If the language of Elkanah may be considered as honourable to his general
+spirit, the silent obedience of Hannah was no less illustrative of her
+extraordinary excellence. How many tempera would have been exasperated by
+such an appeal; and instead of drying up the tears of grief, and
+proceeding to partake food, would have instantly retorted both upon the
+intercessor and the rival! She might have demanded why her husband,
+instead of asking her to conceal her sorrows, did not rather reprove the
+provoking conduct of Peninnah, and silence her exasperating tongue?
+Availing herself of the decided preference shown her, she might have aimed
+at making her husband a party in the dispute; and, by his means, have
+triumphed over her adversary. But Hannah was influenced by far different
+sentiments. To her husband's remonstrances she appears to have returned no
+answer: nor was it a sullen silence; for she took food, interrupted no
+longer the festivities of the occasion, but, painful as the struggle must
+have been, heroically concealed her own feelings till the termination of
+the public solemnities.</p>
+
+<p>"After they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk," Hannah
+continued in "bitterness of soul," and rose up to withdraw. But whither
+did she go? Whither, under circumstances like these, was it natural for
+her to fly? Perhaps into solitude to bemoan her sad situation, to pour out
+her unrestrained tears, to anathematize her insulting rival, to plot
+revenge, to curse the day of her birth. The stream of grief and complaint
+might be expected to flow, in the secret hour, with accelerated force and
+rapidity, proportioned to the restraint which publicity had imposed. She
+did not, however, yield to this influence, or retire for such a purpose.
+Perhaps she withdrew to seek the counsel of a friend, or solicit the
+prompt interference of others who pitied her sufferings, to check
+Peninnah, or to stimulate Elkanah to stronger measures. Such a proceeding
+was not unlikely; it was not, however, the one she adopted. Perhaps, then,
+it may be supposed, she went home to wait for some favourable opportunity
+of urging her husband to discard Peninnah, and of exasperating his
+prejudices against her. It was indeed <i>natural</i> for her to pursue either
+or of all these courses; but she chose a different one. The pious mourner
+has another and a better resource. If she look around her for comfort in
+vain, she can look above. She may be pressed on every side--difficulties
+and distresses accumulating in every direction--foes behind, and seas of
+trouble before--but the opening into heaven is free; the ear of mercy is
+not shut; the way of access to God never can be closed! "And she vowed a
+vow, and said, O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the
+affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine
+handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man-child, then I will give
+him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come
+upon his head."</p>
+
+<p>This solemn address to Heaven exemplifies some of the essential qualities
+of genuine prayer. It is marked by <i>reverence</i> and <i>godly</i> fear; for she
+appeals to "the Lord of hosts," whose prerogative it is to marshal the
+celestial armies, and to regulate with undeviating skill and irresistible
+influence the affairs of this lower world: it displays profound
+<i>humility</i>; for she repeats the simple and self-abasing term, "thine
+handmaid:" it expresses <i>submission</i> and <i>dependence</i> of spirit; for she
+refers with implicit obedience to the determinations of the divine will,
+as comprising whatever is best calculated to promote her real interests,
+though without presumption, she solicits Omnipotent interference to remove
+her affliction, if it should comport with the arrangements, and seem
+proper to the wisdom of God; it manifests an importunity which will always
+operate with more or less intenseness in every genuine prayer. Her solemn
+vow, her judicious repetitions, her whole phraseology, evince this
+prevailing disposition. She kindles with holy fervour, and seems to
+stretch forth her eager hand to take the blessing which she cannot
+persuade herself will be refused. She is fully aware that power and
+goodness combine in perfect proportions to influence the dispensations of
+the God whom she addresses, and pleads with success, because she pleads
+with fervour.</p>
+
+<p>Nor is Hannah the first or the last witness to the apostolic assurance:
+"the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much." It is not
+indeed insinuated, that importunity in soliciting favours is invariably
+successful. Unquestionably, many considerations of propriety, necessity,
+and adaptation, must be understood to enter into the account. The spirit
+of dictation must not blend with that of earnestness, nor must we deem
+ourselves qualified to determine the time, the manner, or the proportion
+of divine communications; but, so far as relates to the spirit of prayer,
+importunity is materially connected with success, and coldness with
+failure: the former advances, and the latter negatives our supplications,
+even while we present them. There are cases of extraordinary ardour, which
+can be measured by no common standard; moments of outgoing after God,
+seasons of inexpressible sensibility, when the mind possesses an
+invincible persuasion of success, which is at once the dictate of the Holy
+Spirit, and the certain indication of acceptance. Faith discerns the
+blessing, with a distinctness hitherto unknown, and love burns with a
+vigour hitherto unfelt. A certain persuasion pervades the soul that its
+entreaties cannot fail, that the contemplated good is its destined
+portion; and amidst the deepest, the most unusual impression of
+unworthiness, its assurance is sustained by a vivid remembrance of the
+promises, and an overwhelming consciousness of personal interest in them:
+all obstacles seem to remove, or to vanish at the first touch; every thing
+yields before the pursuit of zeal, distance disappears, time dwindles into
+a moment, and the mind at once enters upon a paradise of possession. In
+the very midst of discouragements, the supplicant becomes a hero, and
+triumphs by <i>a prevailing power</i>, analogous to that of a great conqueror,
+whose very consciousness of superiority wins an otherwise doubtful battle,
+and gives him a victory even by anticipation. Amidst the provocations of
+her rival, and the soothings of her husband, Hannah could only weep and
+fast: but at the footstool of mercy, she wrestles like Jacob, and
+prevails like Israel. She rises above herself, no longer the despised and
+desponding mourner, but the accepted and the triumphant suppliant. Thus
+devotion not only sanctifies, but ennobles character. It awakens all the
+energies of our nature, directs them to their proper object, and supplies
+an ample sphere for their exercise. It produces extraordinary elevation,
+and creates a heaven in the exercise of faith, and in the sphere of duty.</p>
+
+<p>It cannot excite surprise, that a mere spectator, even though he be a
+pious spectator, should, on such occasions as these, mistake the outward
+indications of inward feeling. Objections will sometimes arise in persons
+of cooler temperament or more constitutional apathy to the enthusiasm of
+younger and more ardent Christians, founded altogether in misapprehension,
+not like those of the world, in impious dislike. That the latter should
+miscal the holy ecstacies of religion enthusiastic and rhapsodical, we do
+not wonder; since they <i>cannot</i> understand them by that medium through
+which alone they become comprehensible, the medium of <i>experience</i>: nor
+need we feel much astonishment at the occasional mistakes of the former,
+when it is recollected, that the external indications of the passions are
+often equivocal.</p>
+
+<p>This was the case with Hannah. Eli, the venerable priest, was sitting upon
+a seat by a post of the temple; and either from want of charity, or a
+defect of eyesight, he pronounced a precipitate judgment upon this good
+woman, whom he strangely imagined to have been in a state of intoxication.
+Hannah, it appears, "spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her
+voice was not heard." This excited the unjust suspicions of Eli, who
+immediately charged her with gross immorality. "How long" said he, "wilt
+thou be drunken? Put away thy wine from thee."</p>
+
+<p>It may be admitted, as an extenuation of this rude attack, that the good
+priest was jealous for the honour of his God, whose temple he supposed was
+suffering profanation by indecent conduct: and that, instead of turning
+tale-bearer and whisperer, he openly expressed his sentiments to the party
+concerned, affording an opportunity for acknowledgment or explanation.
+Still his precipitancy cannot be justified. It was his duty to have
+obtained better evidence, before he ventured upon such a crimination; or,
+at least, to have been more ceremonious and considerate. Reproof may be
+well merited; but, in order that its end be answered, it should be
+properly administered. Gentleness and mercy should blend their benign
+influences with justice. We are ourselves liable to error, and have no
+right to assume the tone of severity, or the air of triumph, when required
+to notice blameable conduct. If we should be mistaken, either in the
+general fact, or in the circumstances, upon some of which we may have
+dwelt with unkind severity, the reproof will not only affect us by a
+strong and most unwelcome reaction, but in many instances furnish the
+transgressor with means of defending himself in what was actually wrong,
+and thus nullify <i>our</i> testimony, and harden <i>his</i> mind.</p>
+
+<p>Admirable, indeed, was the reply of Hannah. "No, my lord," said she, "I am
+a woman of sorrowful spirit, I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink,
+but have poured out my soul before the Lord. Count not thine handmaid for
+a daughter of Belial; for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief
+have I spoken hitherto."</p>
+
+<p>Nothing could be a more complete vindication of herself than this
+respectful, dispassionate, and dignified language. She merely disclaims
+the unjust imputation of her accuser, and explains the true cause of her
+emotions. If she had been resentful and clamorous, the suspicion of Eli
+would rather have been confirmed than removed; but her innocence shone
+forth as the noon-day, unclouded by irritability or violence.</p>
+
+<p>There is usually a marked difference between innocence and guilt, in the
+mode of treating accusations: the latter boisterous and impatient; the
+former gentle, calm, and moderate, comparatively careless of
+misrepresentations, and often silent; the latter adopts any artifice to
+shun the light, the former affords every facility to investigation. If a
+character be free from the stain of guilt, it will not shrink from those
+proceedings which tend to hold it up to the light, and which of course
+only exhibit its perfect transparency.</p>
+
+<p>Eli, perceiving his mistake, disdains to persist in it. Like a man of
+integrity and piety, he corrects himself at once, dismisses her with a
+blessing, and prays for her success. This was making the best possible
+reparation, and it was done with a promptness which evinced its sincerity.
+The good man was as ready to express his approbation, when convinced of
+Hannah's innocence, as he had been to censure her conduct, when he
+imagined it to be culpable.</p>
+
+<p>In this transaction, we perceive him practising one of the most difficult
+of duties; and if the wife of Elkanah be worthy of imitation for a
+respectful and modest defence against a false accusation, the pious priest
+of the Lord is no less so for retracting a hasty judgment, and instantly
+exchanging frowns for smiles, reproof for applause, cursing for blessing.
+In most cases, the offending party is the last to be reconciled; and
+mistake is frequently adhered to with an obstinacy, and defended with a
+pertinacity, proportioned to the haste with which it has been adopted.
+Look inward. What is the present state of your minds respecting the errors
+you have committed, or the wrong steps you have taken, and of which you
+are deeply conscious? Have you adopted any measures to give satisfaction
+to an injured party, or, are you disposed to that concession which you
+know your past improprieties require? To trifle with the character of
+another is cruel--to persist in misrepresentation is wicked. Can you
+expect pardon of God, while living in the indulgence of an unforgiving
+spirit towards your fellow-creatures? Justice requires, and Christianity
+insists, upon reparation. O listen to their united voice! Hasten to wipe
+off the stain which your carelessness, or your malignity, has flung upon
+the white robe of innocence! Hasten to dry up the tears which you have
+caused the sufferer to shed: hasten to heal the wound you have foolishly,
+perhaps wickedly, inflicted.</p>
+
+<p>This duty, remember, is not superseded even by the ill conduct of the
+person you have made your foe. If, instead of submitting to your
+unkindness, or bearing your mistake with the meekness of Hannah, you have
+been loudly denounced--if you have been represented as a calumniator, and
+railing has been rendered for railing--if the injured person have even
+taken advantage of your error to reproach you in turn, and circulated a
+thousand mis-statements to your disadvantage, you are still under the
+greatest obligations to correct and apologize for your original error.
+Never can you be justified in the eyes of impartial men; never can you
+stand upon the high ground of an unblemished reputation, and become
+invulnerable to attack; never can you obtain the divine approbation, till
+you have adopted this measure. Neither conscience, reason, nor religion,
+will admit that the aspersions of another justify your slanders. His
+persistance is no reason against your concession.</p>
+
+<p>Restored to tranquillity and happiness, Hannah withdrew from the temple,
+and "her countenance was no more sad." Her innocence was apparent to the
+priest, her petition heard in heaven. She went up weeping, she returned
+rejoicing. Devotion had pacified her troubled breast, and since
+"committing her way to the Lord," the tide had ebbed, the sky had cleared.
+She knew that her request would be granted, or, if denied, that she should
+see occasion ultimately to feel perfect acquiescence and satisfaction in
+the determinations of Providence. She, therefore, wiped away her tears,
+and dismissed her anxiety. Such is the relief afforded by humble prayer.
+How often has sorrow been transformed into joy by religious exercises!
+From the dark vale of life, where the winds blow and the rains descend,
+how often has the pious mourner ascended to that sacred mount of communion
+with God, <i>the closet</i>, or to the "<i>holy hill of Zion</i>," and dwelt in the
+sunshine of heaven! Agitated no longer with conflicting elements, and
+mysterious events, the clouds have appeared far, far below; while the
+omnipotent hand has been seen engaged in regulating their movements,
+directing their course, and preparing to disperse them in every direction.</p>
+
+<p>It is obvious that no combination of happy circumstances, no human power,
+no earthly friendship, could have afforded substantial consolation to
+Hannah, if she had not repaired to the mercy-seat. Already had her
+affectionate husband attempted, in vain, to sooth her grief. He had
+renewed his love, wiped off her tears, kindly remonstrated and reasoned
+with her.--Hannah! "am not I better to thee than ten sons?" Ah! what
+avails it! Elkanah can sympathize, but he cannot relieve--he can reason,
+but he cannot remove the cause of her sorrows--he cannot turn the course
+of nature, or renew the springs of existence--he cannot change weakness
+for strength, or convert barrenness into fertility: but he who has all
+resources in his hands, all elements and worlds at his disposal, <i>can</i>;
+and, at the voice of prayer, <i>will</i> accomplish the holy desires of the
+mind. See, Christians, your best resource, your ultimate appeal, your
+distinguished privilege! "God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness."</p>
+
+<p>Henceforward, the sacred narrative omits the name of Peninnah, and there
+is nothing in her history to induce a wish to penetrate the concealing
+veil. She was, in fact, originally introduced to notice for the purpose of
+illustrating the more valuable qualities of Hannah, whose excellence
+continues to shine with indiminished lustre to the end of her days. It is
+indeed profitable, as a warning, to contemplate specimens of moral
+deformity as well as examples of moral worth; but we naturally hasten from
+the offensive, to the pleasing and attractive forms of female character.
+Peninnah perishes unregretted from the page--Hannah continues to adorn it,
+and obtains an everlasting remembrance.</p>
+
+<p>On the day fixed for the return of this pious family, it is stated that
+they rose early in the morning, and worshipped before the Lord. It is
+deplorable, that so many of our thoughtless race should live from day to
+day, and from year to year, in a state of perfect estrangement from the
+duties of devotion. Whirled about in the circle of dissipation, or busied
+with the cares of the world, they forget God their Maker; and, though the
+constant recipients of mercies which flow to them in uninterrupted
+succession, they never acknowledge, they can scarcely be said to know the
+Giver. The most important transactions, schemes, and journeys, are
+undertaken without once committing themselves to the guidance or
+protection of that Providence which is observant of their steps, and
+supplies them, notwithstanding their ingratitude. How pleasantly do <i>they</i>
+proceed, who, like the family of Elkanah, first solemnly present
+themselves before the Lord, and commence every business and every day with
+an act of worship! It is true they are not exempted from misfortune, or
+rendered invulnerable to the attacks of evil; but they are well prepared
+for, and will be graciously sustained in every vicissitude.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, 1155.]</p>
+
+<p>The predestined hour having arrived, a son was born to Hannah, whom she
+named <i>Samuel</i>; "because," said she, "I have asked him of the Lord."
+Sometimes, what has been sought with importunity, is received with
+coldness, or enjoyed with ingratitude. No sooner is the blessing bestowed,
+no sooner is the tear of agony dried up, than every pledge is forgotten,
+and the mind relapses into thankless indifference. The sun shines, and our
+impressions pass away with the storm. But Hannah adopted a measure well
+calculated to excite every member of the family, and his mother in
+particular, to a perpetual recurrence to the goodness of Providence. She
+was resolved upon an expedient, by which the flame of gratitude might be
+kept incessantly burning in her breast. Could she ever look upon <i>Samuel</i>
+without recollecting he was "asked of God?" Could she ever repeat the
+name of her beloved first-born, without thinking of the Hearer of prayer?
+Amidst the ecstasies of maternal love, when she witnessed the infant
+sportings, and traced the expanding faculties of her Samuel, how often
+would she remember the stirrings of her spirit, and the sad days of her
+reproach. Once she had scarcely indulged the hope of being a mother, much
+less the mother of so remarkable a child. Once she wept in bitterness of
+soul, now she shed tears of parental transport.</p>
+
+<p>Assiduity in the discharge of maternal duties is the next distinguishing
+excellence of Hannah to which our attention is invited. The sensibilities
+of her character seemed to have remarkably qualified her for the new
+station she was called to occupy after the birth of her child.</p>
+
+<p>Providence has so wisely and so kindly ordered the connection subsisting
+between the parent and the offspring, and has rendered human nature, even
+in its depraved state, so susceptible of fine impressions and feelings,
+that the moment this relationship commences, a sort of new character is
+superinduced.</p>
+
+<p>When a dependant little being is presented, a careful and protecting
+disposition is generally displayed; the arm of support is readily held
+forth to the weakness of infancy, and the most inconsiderate and volatile
+of women are, by a natural instinct--a certain powerful, indefinable
+transformation--converted to sober habits and necessary attentiveness--Who
+can withhold his admiration of this singular economy, or refuse to admit
+the interference of an invisible and wonderworking God! If this be the
+effect in ordinary instances, it is easy to imagine that the wife of
+Elkanah proved an exemplary instance of diligence and goodness when she
+became a mother. For such an honourable situation she was peculiarly
+qualified by her gentleness and piety. The precious gift, for which she
+had been so solicitous, was nursed with fondness, and eventually presented
+with all a mother's, with all a Christian's joy, to the Lord in Shiloh.</p>
+
+<p>At the next anniversary festival, Elkanah went up to fulfil a vow he had
+made, and to renew the dedication of himself and his family to the divine
+service. Hannah accompanied him in spirit, but was prevented from a
+personal attendance by her little lovely dependant: she intimated to her
+husband the propriety of her remaining at home, pledging herself to
+undertake the pleasing journey when the child was weaned. "Then," said
+she, "I will bring him, that he may appear before the Lord, and there
+abide for ever." It is no honour to religion for its professors to neglect
+the duties of civil life under the pretence of superior sanctity: in vain
+do those who disregard their families apologize for their misconduct by
+pleading their diligence in pious services. Religion not only requires a
+punctuality of observance in reference to its more public engagements, but
+demands an unremitted attention to those of a more private, social, and
+domestic nature: these ought not indeed to be viewed apart, in a separate
+and disunited form, but as constituting a beautiful whole. Religion, in
+fact, consists both in diligence and devotion, in the occupation of our
+stations in society, as well as in fulfilling the services of the
+sanctuary; in nursing and educating the child, as well as in presenting
+the sacrifice, or keeping the holy festival of saints.</p>
+
+<p>Elkanah fully concurred with the arrangements of Hannah. Happy is it for
+that family where the domestic hearth is cheered by love and the altar by
+piety. Happy they, whose affection, planted in religion, resembles a
+flourishing tree that spreads its shade over the united household. Hannah
+consulted her husband, and stated the reasons of the plan she had
+devised--Elkanah listened to the representations of his wife, and
+instantly assented.</p>
+
+<p>"Do," said he, "what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou hast weaned him;
+only the Lord establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son
+suck until she weaned him."</p>
+
+<p>How beautiful is the allusion of the royal psalmist to this important
+period in the history of infancy: "Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine
+eyes lofty, neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things
+too high for me. Surely I have behaved and quieted myself as a child that,
+is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child."</p>
+
+<p>It costs, indeed, a severe struggle to alienate the little offspring from
+the breast from which it has drawn the means of subsistence, and, for a
+short time, uneasiness and fretfulness may be the result; but when the
+days of weaning are accomplished, the long-valued provision is regarded
+with total indifference. Strong is the conflict and sharp the encounter
+between a sense of duty and an inclination to sin, when the world presents
+those fascinating pleasures which are so adapted to the appetites of
+nature; but having obtained the victory--having, through the grace of God,
+triumphed over the enticement, a real Christian will contemplate the
+glories of this world which once enchanted him, with an indifferent eye,
+and seek more substantial blessings. What naturally afforded satisfaction,
+will, in a renewed state of mind, excite aversion or be treated with
+neglect. The propensity being conquered, will never, or but partially
+return, and if not absolutely exterminated, it can never again acquire an
+ascendancy. The soul is become, in reference to the fleeting honours and
+possessions of time, like a "weaned child."</p>
+
+<p>It is at once our duty and felicity to aim at this detachment of affection
+from the vanities of life, to cherish a holy disinclination toils
+allurements, and to seek our bliss in the unfading good which Scripture
+recommends and Heaven dispenses. An interest in the love of God, by faith
+in the Redeemer, is the supreme enjoyment to which we are encouraged to
+aspire, and which alone can fill the capacities and consummate the
+blessedness of intelligent and immortal creatures. Pitiable is the
+situation of those who are still attached, with childish fondness, to what
+cannot promote their spiritual growth, and befits not their advancing
+maturity. "Let Israel," then, "hope in the Lord from henceforth and
+for ever."</p>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="10-2"></a>Section II.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Samuel is devoted to the Service of the Sanctuary--Uniformity of
+  Character exemplified in Hannah--her Song paraphrased--five other
+  Children born to Hannah--View of her natural Kindness and
+  self-denying Piety.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>As soon as the time proposed by Hannah had elapsed, she thought of
+fulfilling her vow, and hastened to Shiloh. In the days of her distress
+she had pledged herself to devote her child to the service of God; in the
+days of her prosperity she does not forget the obligation. Never, so far
+as we can discover, was a more perfect example of female excellence and
+persevering religion: in adversity and in prosperity, in sorrow and in
+joy, the light of her piety shone with undiminishing splendour. She had
+virtues appropriate to every season, and conspicuous in every situation:
+in affliction she cannot be reproached with impatience, nor in success
+with ingratitude.</p>
+
+<p>When Samuel was weaned, she took him with her, with three bullocks, an
+ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, determining to leave him with the
+priest, for the purpose of being trained up to the service of the
+tabernacle. It was an equal honour to the pupil and the tutor, the one to
+have such a priest as Eli, the other to have such a child as Samuel. With
+all the dignity of innocence and all the pleasure of devotion, she
+presented the little stranger to Eli, reminding him of the occasion when
+she first pledged herself to consecrate the child she requested to the
+work of the sanctuary, and explaining a vow of which he was previously
+ignorant. It is true that God and her own soul were the only witnesses and
+hearers of this vow; but she did not deem it the less obligatory though it
+was made in secret, nor was her upright mind the less anxious for its
+punctual fulfilment: "And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to
+Eli. And she said, O my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman
+that stood by thee here, praying unto the Lord. For this child I prayed;
+and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him: therefore
+also I have lent him to the Lord: as long as he liveth he shall be lent to
+the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>There is an exquisite delicacy in this language. The allusion to her
+former appearance in the house of God is as cursory as could be devised to
+enable the good priest to recognize her. Eli is reminded of her former
+prayers; but not a syllable is uttered tending to criminate or to reflect
+upon his past precipitancy and misrepresentation. She tells a simple
+story, in a candid and respectful manner. The points of deepest interest
+are introduced, and her darling child is devoted forever, and with
+unreluctant zeal, to the God of her salvation.</p>
+
+<p>Let the impatient and revengeful study the example of Hannah, who did not
+allow herself to utter an angry word, or even to cherish a resentful
+feeling against Eli, when he preferred against her an inconsiderate and
+aggravating accusation; much less did she indulge a spirit of malignity.
+How many would have felt an invincible aversion, even though his frank
+acknowledgment had compelled them to a momentary reconciliation; and,
+viewing his character ever after through the medium of prejudice, would
+have magnified every feeling, and flung their public reproaches, or
+circulated their secret whispers and surmises against this venerable
+minister of the tabernacle. It becomes the people of God to be careful of
+the reputation of their brethren, and aim to wipe off the aspersions with
+which the world is apt to depreciate their characters, rather than to
+unite in the clamours of defamation. Men in official situations are placed
+upon a pinnacle which renders them conspicuous, and envy is always ready
+to shoot at them its envenomed darts. They have their faults indeed, but
+let charity cover them: they may have also their counterbalancing
+excellencies--let piety observe and imitate them. Should the criminal
+conduct of such persons belie their general profession, dishonour the
+religion they profess, and render it necessary to displace them, we ought
+to tremble for ourselves, and not triumph in their fall. Who would be
+qualified to cast the first stone, if his offences were all detected,
+exposed, and treated with merciless severity? The practice of dedicating
+children to God, is, we perceive, sanctioned by the usage of high
+antiquity; but, what is far better, it is conformable to reason and
+Scripture. Sometimes, indeed, it is accompanied with much absurdity and
+superstition; but, when properly attended to, it secures many advantages.
+Prayer, at all times important, is peculiarly effectual when offered in so
+solemn a manner: and if, in ordinary cases, it procure the blessings of
+Heaven, a well-founded hope may be excited, that the interesting little
+object of such a service will reap some substantial benefits. It tends
+besides to purify the domestic affections, and to regulate their exercise.
+The child which is bestowed in answer to prayer, and by prayer is, at the
+very dawn of existence, consecrated to God, and committed to the future
+care and guidance of his providence, is regarded with a new kind of
+feeling even by its parents; their fondness receives a peculiar tone and
+character from their piety; the motive to seek its spiritual interest is
+strengthened by their holy vows; and they cannot but feel an additional
+motive to impart early instruction, to cultivate its expanding faculties,
+and form the young immortal both for its present and ultimate destination.</p>
+
+<p>Devote, then, ye mothers of Israel, devote your babes to piety and God!
+Hesitate not to incur the solemn responsibility which a vow implies in
+reference to your tender offspring: it is the most immediate method of
+making them your future comforts in this life, and your companions in a
+better. Your solicitude will at least afford you personal satisfaction;
+you will inherit the delightful consciousness of having done your duty:
+you may be happily instrumental in producing early impressions, and
+preparing them for their future crown. Then, should they depart from the
+world before you, to be "forever with the Lord," they will rise from their
+thrones of light to hail your approach, and mingle their thanksgivings and
+praises with yours in the songs of eternity.</p>
+
+<p>Uniformity of character is a high attainment, of which Scripture history
+presents some pleasing specimens, though perhaps it affords more numerous
+instances of irregularity. The early life of some is nothing but the
+record of crime and folly, when the passions were indulged in unbridled
+licentiousness, and the moral creation groaned beneath the burden of
+their vices; but afterward retrieving their errors, they have become
+examples of sobriety, kindness, and religion. Others shone, forth at first
+with preeminent brightness, attracting the eyes of an extensive community
+to their juvenile excellence, and holding forth the best promises of
+futurity; but their goodness has proved like the morning cloud, and like
+the early dew, that passeth away; the eyes of parental tenderness, that
+once glistened with rapture and admiration, are suffused with tears; the
+church of God, that once hailed their zeal, is filled with regrets to
+witness its faded ardours and its altered nature. "How is the gold become
+dim, and the fine gold changed?" There is another, a sort of intermediate
+class, who have rather a doubtful complexion, some of whose actions
+indicate piety, others the reverse: at a distance they may be admired,
+but, upon a closer inspection, their principles are questionable, and, as
+our acquaintance with them increases, our respect irresistibly diminishes.
+Candour itself, which would put the most favourable construction upon
+them, is compelled to see new spots and blemishes in proportion as we
+perceive more distinctly their entire character.</p>
+
+<p>The illustrious female, however, before us, exhibits a singular contrast
+to all these diversities. From the first to the last mention of her name
+in the page of Scripture, she challenges unmitigated admiration; she is
+uniform in every character: adversity and prosperity find her the same
+woman: she does not murmur in the one, she is not vain in the other. There
+is but a single variety in her character, arising from its progressive
+excellence. She is not <i>the same</i>, only because she is <i>better</i>; our
+veneration keeps pace with our knowledge. Her character does not, like
+that of many others, suffer by investigation; it does not resemble an
+object seen at some distance through a mist, which is magnified into
+unnatural dimensions, so that the illusion vanishes when you come near;
+but is like a tower seen afar off under a clear sky, swelling in majesty
+at every step of approximation.</p>
+
+<p>We are now brought to the close of Hannah's history; it is even more
+splendid than its commencement. We have traced her through the various
+characters of a persecuted wife, a weeping suppliant, a misrepresented
+worshipper, a joyful mother, and a grateful saint, fulfilling her vows and
+devoting her first-born to the service of God. In some respects the latter
+must have proved a trying occasion, a duty of difficult execution; and we
+could have forgiven, we could have sympathized with the tears of a mother
+who was placed in the situation of violating her vows or giving up her
+darling; we could have pitied her struggles, while we commended their
+successful issue, in leaving her Samuel behind her at Shiloh. But she
+assumes a higher tone and spirit: the mother is absorbed in the saint;
+and, at the moment when we expected the language of parting regret and
+anxiety, behold, she bursts into a song of praise, and soars to the
+heights of prophecy.</p>
+
+<p>This holy effusion is somewhat analogous to that of the mother of our
+Lord, which we shall hereafter have occasion to illustrate. In the mean
+time the hymn of Hannah claims our examination. It is called a <i>prayer</i>,
+because it was addressed to God as an act of worship, and because the
+acknowledgment and celebration of divine mercies constitute an important
+branch of devotion.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>My heart rejoiceth in the Lord; mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my
+mouth is enlarged over mine enemies: because I rejoice in thy salvation</i>."</p>
+
+<p>A vain mother might have celebrated her <i>son,</i> and, if she had expressed
+a general sense of divine goodness in his bestowment, would have dwelt
+with satisfaction upon his premature indications of greatness. Inordinate
+attachment to the gift is apt to obliterate from the mind a grateful
+recollection of the giver; and to this forgetfulness we are liable to be
+seduced by our affections. But Hannah cannot taste of the stream without
+being led to the fountain; she cannot receive mercies without viewing the
+hand that bestows them; nor be so enraptured with the blessing as to sink
+the Creator in the creature. In fact, Samuel is unnamed. His beauty, his
+pliability--whatever he really possessed, or whatever the fond eye of a
+mother fancied he possessed--all was forgotten, lost, and annihilated in
+God. Every valued blessing--her child, her husband, her possessions;--the
+whole creation vanished into nothingness before the thought of the
+"eternal ALL!"</p>
+
+<p>The "horn" is an emblem of power and pre-eminence, and Hannah speaks of its
+exaltation. She had been degraded and despised for the childless
+condition, and had suffered reproach from the daughters of Israel, in
+particular from Peninnah; but she had now, through the mercy of God, risen
+to distinction, and obtained the object of her warmest solicitude. The
+lips which before moved in secret whispers or inarticulate prayer, are now
+taught to praise! The horn was also an instrument of music, and was lifted
+up to be sounded in the sacred chorus. In the days of David we read of the
+sons of Heman, who were to "lift up the horn;" and this pious woman
+perhaps borrowed the allusion to represent the ardour of her worship and
+the triumph that inspired her tongue.</p>
+
+<p>If, with her solemn praises, Hannah blended a momentary recollection of
+the unkindness with which she had been treated, it was solely to express
+her thankfulness for deliverance, and not to produce a charge against her
+enemies. "Her mouth was enlarged," indeed, but not to utter the language
+of retaliation, not in passionate exclamations or in threatening words,
+but to memorialize the goodness of the Lord. Nor was this her only source
+of joy. Temporal interposition served but to remind her of spiritual
+blessings; and, while her spirit exulted in the birth of Samuel, she
+looked forward to a more auspicious day, and rejoiced in the "salvation"
+which should hereafter be accomplished by the incarnation of the Redeemer.</p>
+
+<p>Winged with holy rapture, she now ascends far above all earthly interests
+and concerns; and quiting the subject, to which she had made but a
+transient allusion, though of the deepest personal importance, she
+meditates alone on infinite perfection:</p>
+
+<p>"<i>There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none besides thee: neither
+is there any rock like our God. Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not
+arrogancy come out of your mouth; for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and
+by him actions are weighed</i>."</p>
+
+<p>The attributes of the Divine Being excite in the bosoms of the wicked
+unmingled dread. Every manifestation of his character is an appeal against
+their impieties, and hence they "desire not the knowledge of his ways." In
+a state of innocence the presence of the blessed God enhanced the
+felicities of Paradise, and nothing but the estrangement which sin has
+occasioned could have so altered the views and perverted the inclinations
+of mankind as to render the best of beings an object of terror; but in
+proportion to the renewal of the mind will be the return of that feeling
+of complacency which was cherished by unfallen man, and is felt by sinless
+immortals.</p>
+
+<p>In all the principal events of her own life, and in the general
+regulation of human affairs, Hannah perceived a display of those
+perfections which she now celebrates; the perfections of holiness, power,
+omniscience, and justice. Nothing is better calculated to suppress the
+arrogance of man than the contemplation of these divine excellencies,
+which are so many rays of one ineffable glory; distinct yet blended;
+separate, yet harmonious in their operations. The history of pagan nations
+supplies ample proof that the spirituality of the divine essence, which
+implies the existence and exercise of these attributes, is too high an
+idea for a creature sunk under the dominion of his senses: he cannot
+ascend to the conception of infinite purity and wisdom: God is not known,
+and cannot be discovered as the searcher of hearts, and the righteous
+dispenser of good and evil, life and death: he cannot realize his
+unlimited dominion, nor imagine the pervading presence of that all-seeing
+eye which looks through the universe, penetrates every concealment, and
+observes, with leisurely and perfect survey, every movement of the soul.
+It is the province of revelation to disclose these great facts, and the
+privilege of piety to triumph in them.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded
+with strength. They that were full have hired out themselves for bread;
+and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath borne seven: and
+she that hath many children hath waxed feeble</i>."</p>
+
+<p>The dispensations of Providence illustrate his perfections. Often, indeed,
+they do not accord with human plans or expectations, but they are
+nevertheless marked with wisdom and equity. In accomplishing the mighty
+purposes of omnipotence the strong are sometimes weakened, and the feeble
+supplied with power; the wealthy are impoverished, and the poor enriched;
+the childless blessed with families, and those whose tables are surrounded
+with a smiling offspring made to weep over their fading health and
+glory. For,</p>
+
+<p>"<i>The Lord killeth, and maketh alive; he bringeth down to the grave, and
+bringeth up. The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and
+lifteth up. He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the
+beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them
+inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord's,
+and he hath set the world upon them</i>."</p>
+
+<p>These changes are frequently ascribed, by unthinking mortals, to mere
+chance, or at least to the uncontrolled operation of second causes. Hannah
+ascribes them "to the Lord." Her faith discerned an invisible hand, and
+rejoiced in an omniscient superintendance. Whatever confusion appears to
+the eye of sense to prevail in the world, religion has access behind the
+scenes, observes the finger that touches the prime spring of this vast
+machine of providence, and sees nothing but harmonious movements,
+concurrent designs, merciful and intelligible plans, perfect and universal
+order. The perspective of human affairs is to such an one complete; he is
+placed by the fear of God in the very point of observance; he looks to the
+distant results, to the termination of the series, and every object, to
+his renewed sight, appears in just and proportionate dimensions. Unless
+seen from this point, every thing will be out of place and contradictory;
+and human arrogance will naturally arraign as irregular, imperfect, or
+unwise, what genuine piety will acknowledge to be best.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in
+darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. The adversaries of the
+Lord shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them:
+the Lord shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength
+unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed</i>."</p>
+
+<p>There is a <i>progressive</i> energy in this sacred song. Hannah warms into
+enthusiasm as she proceeds, till, under the influence of a heavenly
+inspiration, she assumes the language of prophecy, and becomes "wrapt into
+future times." At the opening, she expressed her gratitude for personal
+blessings; hence she is led to celebrate the perfections of Jehovah: then
+she proclaims the interference of his providence in the vicissitudes of
+this lower world: and finally, proceeds to contrast the destinies of the
+righteous and wicked, as resulting from the manifestation of the Messiah
+to rule over all nations by a spiritual and everlasting dominion. In that
+name which is above every name, in the hallowed name of the ANOINTED ONE,
+the song of Hannah terminates. What greater honour could be conferred on a
+woman than to be gifted with that spirit of prophecy which first announced
+the approaching Redeemer, to whom all the prophets gave witness? She
+speaks of his authority as a "King," his administration as a "Judge," his
+work as a Priest and Prophet, prefigured by that oil which was poured upon
+the most eminent of mankind, who were types of the distinguished Personage
+who was to come, and who is therefore designated as the Lord's "Anointed."
+How great his influence! "he will keep the feet of his saints!" How
+terrible his power! "the adversaries of the Lord shall be broken in
+pieces: out of heaven shall he thunder upon them." Preposterous indeed is
+the hope of his enemies, that they shall evade the destruction of his iron
+rod; while pleasing and well-founded is the expectation of his saints, who
+bow with unreluctant submission, with grateful acceptance, to his
+golden sceptre.</p>
+
+<p>Almost twelve hundred years were yet until when Hannah uttered this
+prediction of the Messiah; and yet her faith, overleaping the ages of
+intervening time, beheld his glory, and triumphed in his salvation. No
+darkness could blind her perceptions, nothing could repress her love: she
+lived as it were, in advance, and, like many of her illustrious
+predecessors and of her posterity, believed in Christ to the saving of
+her soul.</p>
+
+<p>These ages are passed away, and many more are numbered since the actual
+manifestation of the Son of God in human nature. We are partakers of his
+day; we live in the light of his glory: from the ages of prediction, we
+are advanced to those of accomplishment; from the time of shadows to the
+era of reality. And have we <i>improved</i> upon the past, in the strength of
+our faith or in the warmth of our attachment to the Lord of glory? Would a
+fair comparison of our state of mind with that of early saints, in far
+distant ages, prove advantageous or unfavourable to our character? Is our
+piety proportionate to our privileges? Does the intensity of our love
+equal the clearness of our discoveries? These are salutary questions, and
+questions of practical importance. Let us aim to be able to put them often
+to our consciences without a blush.</p>
+
+<p>Very little more information is communicated respecting Hannah: her
+history is merged in that of her distinguished son. We have, however, a
+beautiful picture of her maternal character, a record of the blessing
+which the aged priest pronounced upon the family, and an account of five
+other children which Providence gave them: "Samuel ministered before the
+Lord, being a child girded with a linen ephod. Moreover his mother made
+him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came
+up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. And Eli blessed
+Elkanah and his wife, and said, The Lord give thee seed of this woman, for
+the loan which is lent to the Lord. And they went unto their own home. And
+the Lord visited Hannah, so that she conceived and bare three sons and two
+daughters."</p>
+
+<p>The good mother and the eminent saint are delightfully blended in the wife
+of Elkanah, and the influence of each is obvious in Samuel. Eli seems to
+have beheld him with unusual affection. He had been early trained to
+gentleness, docility, and goodness. Discipline at home commenced from his
+first infancy, and continuing to the moment of his removal to Shiloh,
+prepared him for the course of life to which he was so soon introduced.
+Too often the petulance and frowardness of children indicate the defective
+nature of their education: indulgence has permitted the wild plant to
+shoot forth its branches with irregular luxuriancy, and it has become both
+unsightly and enfeebled for want of being properly pruned. To suffer the
+propensities and passions of children to go unrestrained is the extreme of
+cruelty, being the most direct means of rendering them burdens to society
+and tormentors to themselves.</p>
+
+<p>Hannah, with admirable firmness, relinquished her youthful charge to the
+care of Eli at the call of duty, and with no less admirable affection and
+prudence, continued to maintain that kind of intercourse which tends to
+promote mutual love. A <i>passionate</i> mother would have urged her husband to
+remove to Shiloh, for the sake of having her little darling perpetually
+under her eye; a <i>prudent</i> one chose to remain at Ramah, only bringing her
+present at the annual festivals. True love knows when to separate, and is
+ready to make necessary sacrifices to the good of a valued child. He was
+in excellent hands, training to a noble work, under a venerable priest,
+and in conformity to a solemn vow. Providence was not unobservant of his
+mother's heroism and piety, and she is amply repaid, not only by his
+superior excellence, but by her own increasing family. <i>One</i> child is lent
+to the Lord, <i>five</i> are given. She possessed with gratitude, she resigned
+with magnanimity, and she is recompensed by multiplication.</p>
+
+<p>Let children never forget the debt they owe to maternal tenderness, a debt
+which the devoted affection and kindness of a whole life can scarcely
+discharge. Let the fond parent who nursed your infancy, corrected your
+frowardness, sowed the seeds of knowledge and piety in your heart,
+watched, wept, and prayed over you, be ever dear, ever respected, and
+loved. She who has sustained your weakness, may live to need support from
+your strength; she who hold you up in the helplessness of infancy, may
+require your supporting arm, and deserves your sympathizing aid in the
+years of her decrepitude.</p>
+
+<p>Young persons need to be reminded, however, that even the impiety of
+parents is no sufficient reason for disrespecting them <i>as parents</i>; and
+if you possess the inestimable treasure of religion, it will be best
+evinced in soothing the cares, ministering to the necessities, and setting
+an example of every duty before the eyes of those who are still so unhappy
+as to be destitute of it. But you who are born of the children of God, and
+who have been nourished and educated under the wing of parental piety, can
+never be too thankful to the God of your salvation, and at some future
+period may have to adopt the poet's elevated strain:</p>
+
+<blockquote>"My boast is not that I deduce my birth<br />
+From loins enthroned, and rulers of the earth;<br />
+But higher far my proud pretensions rise--<br />
+The son of parents pass'd into the skies."</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>Cowper.</blockquote>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="11"></a>Abigail.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter XI.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  Many persons naturally capable of great Attainments and elevated
+  Stations have lived and died unknown--the Dispensations of Providence
+  analogous in this respect to the Arrangements of Nature--Scripture
+  Account of Nabal and Abigail--Sources of Incongruous
+  Marriages--Ambition--Wish to maintain the Respectability of a
+  Family--Persuasion of Friends--early Disappointments--Nabal's Conduct to
+  David--Abigail's Interposition--Death of her Husband--She becomes
+  David's Wife.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>Millions of the human race, naturally capable of great attainments and
+mighty exploits, had they been differently circumstanced, or had their
+mental and moral energies been properly cultivated, have died as they have
+lived, in a state of obscurity. Unknown to the rest of mankind even by
+name, they have scarcely wandered from the precincts of their native
+village, or the cottage that gave them birth; but, like the wild flowers
+of the untrodden wilderness, have sprung up, and bloomed, and perished
+upon the same spot. Successive generations have occupied the identical
+sphere of their ancestors, living in the same unenvied seclusion, and at
+last carried to the same undistinguished grave.</p>
+
+<p>Whoever has had an opportunity of knowing the state of society and the
+character of man in retirement, must be aware that the amazing disparity
+subsisting between the extremes of rusticity and of polished life arises
+far less from original disproportions of capacity than from the accidental
+circumstances which attach to the two conditions. Education has a
+tendency to remove these differences, to elevate the inferior classes of
+society from their degradation, to raise them in the scale of being and to
+unite man to man: but still more important effects result from religion,
+which, by fixing the thoughts on holy and heavenly objects, and firing the
+breast with incessant ardour in the pursuit of them, advances the
+character to a dignity otherwise unattainable. How much humble piety has
+bloomed in the by-paths of life far from the crowded highway of the world,
+amidst the recesses of privacy! How often has the beauty of holiness
+adorned the most misshapen, or otherwise unattractive exterior! How many
+great and pious individuals have occupied the vale of poverty, the objects
+of divine approbation and of angelic joy; who, under different
+circumstances, might have been ornaments of the political world, or lights
+in the church of God; and will be pillars for ever in the
+celestial temple!</p>
+
+<p>These dispensations of Providence are analogous to certain arrangements in
+nature. How many showers descend, and how many vegetable productions grow
+in barren wildernesses! It is not till after ages of research that a few
+species and varieties have been discovered; and it may be questioned
+whether an equal, if not a far greater number, still exist in the
+unfrequented solitudes of creation, which science may not visit for
+centuries yet to come: and of those which are at present known, a few only
+of their qualities, and the uses for which they were formed, have been
+ascertained. To pronounce a condemnatory sentence upon that wisdom which
+assigned them their places, merely on account of our incapacity to
+discover their precise destination, would be presumptuous and impious in
+the extreme; nor would it be less so to contemn the unsearchable mysteries
+of Providence, whose arrangements surpass the comprehension and confound
+the inquiries of man.</p>
+
+<p>Some of those "lights shining in a dark place" have, however, been
+occasionally brought into view by unexpected circumstances; and more than
+one is exhibited through the medium of the inspired word. They would have
+for ever remained in concealment, and their names have perished, excepting
+from the book of God's remembrance, but for some apparent casualty. A
+history of <i>incidents</i> would furnish a most delightful record of
+Providence, showing its secret, but certain operations, and its
+connecting, though, to superficial observers, invisible links. One of
+these, in the life of David, presents the brief, but interesting account
+of ABIGAIL, who, like Job in Uz, Joseph in Egypt, and Daniel in Chaldea,
+exhibited a specimen of solitary excellence, which at length emerged from
+obscurity, and, by means of her connection with one of the most eminent of
+mankind, shone in an appropriate sphere.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 1058.]</p>
+
+<p>She is thus introduced to our notice, in the scriptural narrative, at a
+time when the son of Jesse was "hunted like a partridge upon the
+mountains" by his royal persecutor. "And David arose, and went down to the
+wilderness of Paran. And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions were
+in Carmel: and the man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep and
+a thousand goats: and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel. Now the name of
+the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife, Abigail: and she was a woman
+of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was
+churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb."</p>
+
+<p>The contrast which the characters of Nabal and Abigail exhibit, may well
+excite astonishment, that persons so dissimilar should have become united
+by the tender ties of matrimony, and may lead us to inquire a little into
+the sources of some incongruities of this kind, which not unfrequently
+make their appearance in society. How is it, that <i>adaptation to each
+other</i>, in point of mental and moral qualities especially, which seems so
+great a prerequisite to happiness, should seldom form the basis of an
+union voluntarily contracted, and incapable of dissolution--an union of
+the closest nature, and an union for life?</p>
+
+<p>Frequently an ill-assorted connection arises from an <i>ambitious motive</i>;
+one party is wealthy, the other aspiring. Attracted by the gilded bait, it
+is seized too eagerly to admit of prudential considerations respecting the
+possibility of concealed mischief, from which, like the fish once caught
+by the hook, it is too late to be disentangled. It cannot be asserted that
+Abigail was induced to marry her churlish husband from such a motive,
+though it will not be deemed improbable by those whose experience of the
+world convinces them that even persons like her, of good understanding,
+beauty, and piety, are sometimes guilty of similar improprieties. Riches
+are, on many accounts, attractive to those whose immaturity of judgment is
+dazzled by the glare of life, and who are consequently too apt to
+associate in their conceptions things which, in reality, have no
+connection--<i>splendour</i> and <i>happiness</i>. The mind is naturally gratified
+by a sense of elevation above the usual level of mankind, as persons
+ascending in an air-balloon become elevated, even amidst their dangers, in
+consequence of attaining a height impossible to others, and attracting the
+idle gaze of spectators on the ground. It is supposed also, that wealth
+will furnish some covert from the storms of adversity, if not a perfect
+security against them; and, forgetting that it tends to multiply and
+extend our wants in a ten-fold proportion to the means of supplying them,
+the sheep and the goats of a Nabal are viewed with ardent but mistaken
+fondness. It is difficult to convince the young of their errors upon this
+subject; nevertheless, we forewarn them that the experiment is hazardous,
+the prospect delusory, the possessions of life uncertain, and utterly
+incapable of compensating for the absence of moral qualities and social
+suitabilities; above all, we proclaim the criminality of cherishing an
+avaricious disposition, and the practical falsehood of giving it the name
+of love. A young woman acting upon this principle literally fulfils the
+common representation of the case, by <i>throwing herself away</i>, and, in one
+rash moment, forfeits her reputation and her happiness.</p>
+
+<p>This unsuitability of connexion in married life sometimes originates in a
+mutual, but foolish <i>wish to maintain the respectability of the family</i>.
+In such instances both are wealthy, and join their fortunes as a sort of
+compromise to the opinion of the world and their own pride, for the sake
+of maintaining their rank. It is true, an equality, or some fair
+proportion in point of fortune, as society is constituted, seems in itself
+<i>desirable</i>, and, if it can be accomplished, is as legitimate an object of
+pursuit as similarity of age or of mind; but the practice of making this
+an absolute prerequisite, of sacrificing to it the affections of the
+heart, and, qualifications of far greater importance, of rendering the
+want of it a sufficient ground of refusing a matrimonial alliance, though
+age, temper, religion, and every commendable quality, may be placed in the
+other scale, and of deeming the possession of it enough when other great
+requisites are absent, is both foolish and wicked. No reason can exist, in
+such a case, why an Abigail--a woman of "good understanding," should
+connect herself with a Nabal--a man "churlish and evil in his doings."</p>
+
+<p>Occasionally the same evil arises from the <i>persuasion of others</i>,
+especially of those who are entitled to respect, and who sometimes, very
+improperly, interpose authority instead of suggesting advice. The parties
+immediately concerned would by no means, if left to themselves, select
+each other as companions for life, but marry merely to satisfy their
+friends. It can never be regarded as otherwise than extreme cruelty in
+those who compel their children to gratify <i>their</i> predilections, instead
+of allowing them their <i>own</i> choice. As this is a connexion, the happiness
+of which so essentially depends upon the affections, and as no argument
+can force the heart into an attachment from which it naturally, or perhaps
+capriciously revolts, and as moreover, the comfort of existence results
+from the state of the mind far more than from any external circumstances
+whatever; reason and religion prescribe, that, after due caution and
+admonition, persons should be permitted to determine ultimately for
+themselves, without being subjected to the miserable alternative of
+accepting parental choice or forfeiting parental fondness.</p>
+
+<p>Incongruous connexions may also originate in one or both of the parties
+having suffered <i>previous disappointment.</i> Young persons under the pang
+occasioned by the failure of a romantic attachment, foolishly resolve no
+more to consult affection, or even to allow it any share in the
+determination of their choice. They imagine it needless any longer to
+expect happiness, because they cannot possess the individual they supposed
+alone capable of promoting it, and repair to marriage merely as a refuge
+from solitude or from reproach. In such cases, they deem it of
+comparatively trifling consequence with whom they connect themselves,
+refusing to admit it possible that they should ever more obtain peace
+of mind.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing, however, can be more delusive than such a feeling. The immaturity
+of the judgment at the early age of first attachments, renders it probable
+that they may not, in reality, have made the best selection, and that
+their preferences were determined rather by casual circumstances and
+accidental impressions, than any knowledge of character or any perception
+of solid qualities. If the comfort of life depended upon the success of
+early predilections, it is probable few would be happy; but Providence has
+wisely ordered it otherwise, by constituting it independent of arbitrary
+associations. Let not the young, therefore, precipitate themselves into
+improper connexions--into connexions not founded on principle, and not
+cemented by love, through indulging the notion that the gratification of a
+first romantic attachment is essential to happiness, and that if
+disappointed, it is of no importance whether they become united to a
+gentle Isaac or a churlish Nabal; because, in reality, the prize is yet to
+be won, the jewel is yet attainable, and Providence may have kindly
+frustrated a present wish, to bestow ultimately a more substantial
+benefit. "The way of man is not in himself; it is not in man that walketh
+to direct his steps." Our utmost efforts cannot arrest or accelerate the
+wheel of destiny, which is turned by a secret and invisible power, that
+raises or depresses, subserves or frustrates our purposes, <i>irresistibly</i>
+indeed, but not <i>arbitrarily</i>; making "all things work together for good
+to them that love God."</p>
+
+<p>The history before us represents David as still a wanderer from wilderness
+to wilderness, and reduced to great extremity. Hearing of the
+extraordinary festivities observed upon the occasion of Nabal's shearing
+his sheep, from which he inferred his opulence, ten messengers were sent
+to him to solicit, in the most respectful manner, a supply of provisions.
+It was intimated, that David had not availed himself of the power which
+the Arab emirs are accustomed to assume, of seizing whatever they need,
+but on the contrary, had afforded protection, instead of exercising
+violence. [<a href="#foot36">36</a>]</p>
+
+<p>Nabal not only refused to comply with the request, but returned an
+insulting answer, which the young men carried to their master. David felt
+the utmost indignation, and instantly prepared to resent the affront. The
+persecutions of Saul being no more than he expected, were borne with a
+fortitude, and requited by a forbearance which cannot but excite our
+admiration; but the unlooked-for barbarity of Nabal took him by surprise,
+and threw him into a rage. We cannot justify his hostile preparations, nor
+look without regret upon his rash proceeding, in taking four hundred of
+his armed followers to destroy Nabal. How unlike David, the man after
+God's own heart, who had been so long trained in the school of
+affliction, and so often manifested a very different spirit! Alas, bow
+easily are the best of men "led into temptation;" and how necessary is it
+to exercise vigilance, not only over our "easy besetting sins," but over
+what we deem the least vulnerable points of our character! Neglecting the
+requisite precautions, we may be taken even on the strongest side, and at
+the most unexpected moment.</p>
+
+<p>One of the servants informed Abigail of what had occurred, stating the
+message of David, and the behaviour of her husband; and, at the same time,
+representing the civility with which the former had conducted himself
+towards the shepherds.</p>
+
+<p>A person of less understanding might have said, "Let these rival chiefs
+settle the matter between themselves; my husband had an undoubted right to
+do what he pleased with his own, and he has the means of defending himself
+from a vindictive stranger." But Abigail wisely listened to the
+information communicated by the servant, and instantly adopted a plan,
+which seemed indeed the only one calculated to avert the threatened blow.
+She took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready
+dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and a hundred clusters of
+raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, which she hastened to present
+to David.</p>
+
+<p>This was excellent management. Had she repaired to her husband, and
+endeavoured to pacify his turbulent spirit by remonstrance, reason, or
+entreaty, the probability is she would have met with a repulse, and
+disabled herself from any further interference. Had she merely <i>sent</i> the
+supply with which the asses were laden, the indignant son of Jesse might,
+very possibly, have returned it as insufficient, or pressed on with his
+armed men to compel Nabal to make reparation for the affront he had
+ventured to offer. This skilful negotiator, however, goes herself to
+settle the contention which had so suddenly arisen; and never, surely, was
+a better arranged or more successful expedition.</p>
+
+<p>The moment Abigail perceived David, she alighted from her ass, and,
+falling prostrate at his feet, addressed him in language well calculated
+to accomplish her wishes. Every thing was in perfect contrast with the
+behaviour of Nabal--her suppliant posture--the respectful term she
+chooses, calling him <i>lord</i>--the appropriation of her husband's fault to
+herself--the apology she offers for him, by representing his conduct as
+resulting rather from a momentary impulse than any settled malignity, as
+the general failing of his nature, not the effect of any personal
+malevolence--the ignorance she professes of the request which David had
+sent, insinuating that otherwise he would have received a very different
+return--her apparent assurance of success, delicately intimating the happy
+circumstance of his being restrained from shedding blood in a momentary
+fit of passion--her offer of the magnificent present she had prepared--her
+congratulation upon his achievements--her confident anticipations of his
+future triumphs, and final establishment in the kingdom--her reference to
+Providence--her suggestion, that it would hereafter prove a source of
+satisfaction that he had been prevented from committing an act which,
+whatever were the provocation, must be painful to recollect, and which
+must rather afflict his conscience than grace his laurels--all these
+topics were well introduced, and urged with a tone of eloquence that
+proved irresistible. David takes the present, thanks Abigail for her
+interposition, and dismisses her, with the assurance that he had
+"hearkened to her voice, and accepted her person."</p>
+
+<p>Upon her return she found Nabal in a state of intoxication, totally
+disregardful of danger, and ignorant of the ruin from which his prudent
+wife had procured his deliverance. Thus do multitudes sport upon the brink
+of everlasting destruction, heedless of the justice they have provoked,
+and solicitous only of consuming those hours, and days, and years, in
+indulgence, which ought to be devoted to repentance. Let the "lovers of
+pleasure" reflect on three short maxims, "He that will not fear, shall
+<i>feel</i>, the wrath of Heaven--He that lives in the kingdom of <i>Sense</i> shall
+die in the kingdom of <i>Sorrow</i>--He shall never truly enjoy his <i>present</i>
+hour who never thinks on his <i>last</i>." [<a href="#foot37">37</a>]</p>
+
+<p>Abigail properly resolved to defer any conversation with Nabal till the
+morning, when she disclosed the whole affair. The surprise was so great
+that "his heart died within him, and he became as a stone." Ten days
+afterward he was smitten by the hand of God, and descended without honour
+into the grave. No one could esteem him while living, and no one regretted
+him when dead.</p>
+
+<p>The news of this event having been conveyed to David, he expressed his
+grateful sense of the divine goodness in keeping him from the execution of
+his rash project, and in thus vindicating his cause by a signal
+interference. As he had been deeply impressed with the personal charms and
+good understanding of Abigail, and as no obstacle seemed to exist to
+prevent their union, he took the first opportunity of proposing to marry
+her; to which, with becoming expressions of humility and modesty, she
+consented.</p>
+
+<p>"It was a fair suit," says Bishop Hall, "to change a David for a Nabal; to
+become David's queen, instead of Nabal's drudge! She, that learned
+humility under so hard a tutor, abaseth herself no less when David offers
+to advance her: 'Let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the
+servants of my lord.' None are so fit to be great as those that can stoop
+lowest. How could David be more happy in a wife? He finds at once piety,
+wisdom, humility, faithfulness, wealth, beauty. How could Abigail be more
+happy in a husband, than in the prophet, the champion, the anointed of
+God? Those marriages are well made, wherein virtues are matched and
+happiness is mutual."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="12"></a>The Queen of Sheba.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter XII.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  David's Anxiety for his Son--its happy Issue--Solomon's Prayer, and the
+  Answer of God--Solomon's Riches and Fame--the Queen of Sheba's
+  visit--her Country ascertained--such Solicitude for Wisdom not
+  common--She proves Solomon with hard Questions--her Desire of Knowledge
+  worthy of Imitation--Solomon's Conduct--his Buildings--the Queen's
+  congratulatory Address--Reflections--her Presents to Solomon, and his to
+  the Queen of Sheba--Christ's Application of the Subject.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>The pious solicitude of David, the king of Israel, in his last hours, for
+his son and successor, is thus recorded in the closing chapter of the
+first book of Chronicles: "Give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart, to
+keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes." With this
+prayer he connected suitable and impressive advice, "Thou Solomon my son,
+know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and
+with a willing mind; for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth
+all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found
+of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off forever."</p>
+
+<p>Parental piety does not always influence, as it ought, those who by their
+domestic privileges are most favourably situated for witnessing it: to all
+human appearance, the language of kind remonstrance or entreaty has been
+often useless, the petitions of fervent desire have failed, and the tears
+of pure affection have flowed in vain. The present instance, however,
+furnishes a pleasing exception to this remark; for upon Solomon's
+accession to the throne, he appointed a solemn festival at Gibeon before
+the tabernacle of Moses; and during the night, in which the God of Israel
+desired that he would ask what he should bestow upon him, he presented a
+petition, no less distinguished by its singularity in such circumstances,
+than by its excellence and success. "And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast
+showed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his
+stead. Now, O Lord God, let thy promise unto David my father, be
+established; for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the
+earth in multitude. Give me now WISDOM and KNOWLEDGE, that I may go out
+and come in before this people; for who can judge this thy people that is
+so great? And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and
+thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine
+enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and
+knowledge, that thou mayest judge my people over whom I have made thee
+king; WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE is GRANTED UNTO THEE; and I will give thee
+RICHES, and WEALTH, and HONOUR, such as none of the kings have had that
+have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like."</p>
+
+<p>The inspired description of Solomon's magnificence may justly excite
+astonishment--a magnificence which extended to "all his drinking vessels,
+which were of gold; and all the vessels of the house of the forest of
+Lebanon were of pure gold; none were of silver: It was nothing accounted
+of in the days of Solomon." It is natural to imagine, that the fame of so
+remarkable a prince, concurring with the comparative ease with which gold
+and silver were procurable, would contribute to establish that taste for
+splendour which has ever distinguished the potentates of the East. It is
+stated by Sir J. Chardin, that the plate of the king of Persia is of pure
+gold, originally made by Shah Abbas, the most glorious of the princes of
+the Sefi royal family; who, for this purpose, melted seven thousand two
+hundred marks, or nearly thirty six thousand English troy ounces of <i>the
+purest gold</i>. But Solomon, according to the testimony of Scripture, was
+the most opulent prince that ever sat upon a throne. His annual revenues
+were six hundred and sixty-six talents of gold, exclusive of the supply he
+received from the customs and from tributary nations. A talent weighed
+three thousand shekels, and a shekel two hundred and nineteen grains. The
+king employed a navy, which, with the assistance of Tyrian vessels and
+navigators, who were esteemed the most skilful in the world, fetched gold
+and silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks, from Ophir, by the way of the red
+sea. This voyage occupied three years.</p>
+
+<p>In comparing the extremes of human society, the riches of a Solomon with
+the poverty of a Bartimeus, it becomes us to recognize the hand of a
+mysterious though wise Providence. He who fixed the stars of the firmament
+in their proper places, determines, independently of all human control,
+the orders of society and the sphere of the individual; and it is no less
+consolatory than obvious, that the equitable rule by which a final
+judgment of our character is to be determined, will measure the extent of
+our responsibility, by an impartial estimate of our situation, our
+opportunities, and our respective talents.</p>
+
+<p>Attracted by the celebrity of Solomon, the QUEEN OF SHEBA came to
+Jerusalem, with a train and presents suited to his dignity and her own.
+Although the sovereigns of neighbouring nations paid similar visits of
+ceremony and of curiosity, yet this illustrious woman is particularly
+noticed in the sacred page, on account perhaps of her sex, her
+inquisitiveness, the remoteness of her situation, the magnificence of her
+equipage and offerings; but especially the piety of her views, and the
+impressive language of her devout admiration.</p>
+
+<p>The date of this interview with the king of Israel may be referred, with
+sufficient accuracy, to the year of the world three thousand and twelve,
+or nine hundred and ninety-two before the Christian era. This was
+subsequent to the completion of the temple and of the royal houses. A
+variety of opinions have prevailed respecting the kingdom of Sheba; and
+some have supposed, though without sufficient reason, that this is the
+name of the queen herself, and not of her country or capital. The
+probability is, that <i>Sheba</i>, situated in the southern part of Arabia
+Felix, and on the eastern coast of the Red Sea, is intended. Moses speaks
+of Sheba, the son Joktan, a descendant of Eber, and more remotely of Shem;
+and ancient authors represent his descendants, the <i>Sabeans</i>, as peopling
+this district of Arabia, the metropolis of whose kingdom was denominated
+<i>Sheba</i> or <i>Saba</i>. It appears from authentic testimony, that they were
+accustomed to female government; and Bochart proves, by numerous
+citations, that the kingdom of Sheba was called by the Jews <i>the country
+of the South</i>, which explains the phraseology of our Lord in the twelfth
+chapter of Matthew. The geographical accuracy of this statement is further
+corroborated, by comparing the description which the inspired historian
+records of the gifts presented by this queen to Solomon, with the language
+of Pliny and Herodotus: the former of whom says, "that odoriferous woods
+were in use only in this country, and that the Sabean consumed them in
+dressing their food;" and the latter, "that the Arabians took a thousand
+talents of frankincense every year to Darius." We deem it proper to avoid
+involving ourselves in a labyrinth of geographical difficulties, and have
+therefore simply stated the result of our inquiries; which however may
+furnish us with, at least, one serious reflection. How transitory and how
+contemptible is human glory! It is not peculiar to the poor and the
+destitute to be forgotten, to have their dwellings and their names perish
+amidst the desolations of time; such is nearly the fate of one of the most
+remarkable sovereigns of antiquity, whose visit to the greatest potentate
+of the eastern world is so celebrated in Scripture. What mean our trifling
+cares--our incessant solicitude about temporal possessions and worldly
+distinctions? The house we now inhabit will soon be demolished and swept
+away by the flood of time--the name by which we are distinguished, and the
+annals of our short period of temporal existence, will soon be scarcely
+remembered by our successor--all our glory will be covered with the
+darkness of death! Shall we not, therefore, aim to secure an incorruptible
+inheritance in the skies, and an unfading pre-eminence in the records of
+eternity? "The <i>righteous</i> shall be had in everlasting remembrance."</p>
+
+<p>The design of the queen of Sheba, in repairing to Jerusalem, was not
+merely to pay a visit of ceremony. She "heard of his fame concerning the
+name of the Lord," and "she came to prove him with hard questions." The
+report, not only of the riches, splendour, and wisdom of Solomon, but also
+of the miraculous interferences of the God of Israel on behalf of his
+people, and of his peculiar favour to this monarch, had reached the
+distant residence of this Arabian queen; and so deep was the interest it
+excited in her bosom, that she determined to undertake a journey, long and
+hazardous as it might be, for the sake of investigating these
+extraordinary facts. It is evident she attached a considerable degree of
+credibility to the representations she had received; and relying no longer
+upon subordinate means of information, she resolved upon a course of
+diligent inquiry. When and where shall we discover a similar zeal to
+acquire a knowledge of "the glorious Gospel of the blessed God?" How often
+have Christian ministers occasion to adopt the prophetic strain, "Who hath
+believed our report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?" How
+often do all the personal excellencies, the moral glories of him who is
+described as "a greater than Solomon," fail to attract mankind? Satisfied
+with mere report--few apply to the sacred Scriptures as the immediate and
+purest means of instruction in "the truth as it is in Jesus," after the
+long-recorded example of the ancient Bereans, who "received the word (of
+Paul and Silas) with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures
+daily, whether those things were so."</p>
+
+<p>Bishop Hall very pertinently remarks, "No doubt many, from all coasts,
+came to learn and wonder, none with so much note as this noble daughter of
+Cham; who herself deserves the next wonder to him whom she came to hear
+and admire: that a woman, a princess, a rich and great queen, should
+travel from the remotest south, from Sheba, a region famous for the
+greatest delicacies of nature, to learn wisdom, is a matchless example. We
+know merchants that venture to either Indies for wealth; others we know
+daily to cross the seas for wanton curiosity; some few philosophers we
+have known to have gone far for learning; and among princes, it is no
+unusual thing to send their ambassadors to far distant kingdoms, for
+transaction of business either of state or commerce: but that a royal lady
+should in person undertake and overcome so tedious a journey, only to
+observe and inquire into the mysteries of nature, art, religion, is a
+thing past both parallel and imitation. Why do we think any labour great,
+or any way long, to hear a greater than Solomon? How justly shall the
+queen of the South rise up in judgment, and condemn us, who may hear
+wisdom crying in our streets, and neglect her?"</p>
+
+<p>Among princely cares, the ardent search of truth can seldom be enumerated,
+though it be a most honourable and beneficial employment. Those whom
+Providence has placed in an elevated situation are usually too much
+occupied with themselves, their pleasures, their pomp, and their ambitious
+projects, to listen to the dictates, or to search out the mysteries of
+wisdom. The concerns of an extensive empire furnish a plausible pretext
+for neglecting the great interest of piety, which a deceived heart is
+ready to plead in extenuation of a conduct condemned alike by reason,
+conscience, and revelation. But let the rulers of nations observe David,
+Solomon, and others of the kings of Israel; the splendour of whose earthly
+glory was eclipsed by the superior brightness of their heavenly wisdom;
+and whose names are written upon, the sacred page, not so much, because
+they were <i>men of rank</i>, as because they were <i>men of God</i>. The command
+of Jesus Christ is of prime importance and of universal obligation, "Seek
+FIRST the kingdom of God and his righteousness;" and unless it can be
+demonstrated that he has made one code of laws for the prince and another
+for the peasant, or that his precepts possess an accommodating flexibility
+suited to the prejudices and passions of mankind, no exception can be for
+a moment admitted. As there is no royal road to the heights of human
+science, but all who attain them must ascend by assiduous and persevering
+application, so there is none to the summit of celestial felicity; but
+persons of every class, rank, sex, and age, must follow Christ in the same
+unsmoothed path of repentance and self-denial. Hence, such is the
+bewitching influence of worldly splendour, so numerous and so powerful the
+attractions of opulence, that we have daily and hourly proofs of the
+apostle's statement: "Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty,
+not many noble, are called; but God hath chosen the weak things of the
+world, to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the
+world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things
+which are not, to bring to nought things that are; that no flesh should
+glory in his presence." But happily the long scroll of history is here and
+there embellished with a name, which combines the glory that confers
+pre-eminence in the present world, with the grace that secures everlasting
+distinction in the next.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 892.]</p>
+
+<p>This celebrated princess is said to have visited Solomon, "to prove him
+with hard questions," by which have generally been understood enigmatical
+puzzles. Some of these are to be found in sacred writ, of which the riddle
+which Samson proposed to the young men of Timnath, is a very ancient and
+curious specimen. It appears from the writings of the ancients, that the
+Greeks and all the Eastern nations, were singularly attached to enigmas.
+Plutarch, in his Feast of the Seven Sages, introduces the following
+questions proposed by Amasis, the king of Egypt, to the king of Ethiopia:
+"What is the most ancient thing--what the most beautiful--what the
+largest--what the wisest--what the most common--what the most useful--what
+the most hurtful--what the strongest--and what the most easy?" To which the
+king of Ethiopia replied, "The most ancient thing is time--the most
+beautiful is light--the largest is the world--the wisest is truth--the
+most common is death--the most useful is God--the most hurtful is the
+devil--the strongest is fortune--and the most easy, to follow one's own
+inclination." In the book of Proverbs, we find several series of this
+description, which originally might have been answers to questions of a
+similar nature. Among others, we have this very curious and beautiful
+statement: "There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they
+are exceeding wise; the ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare
+their meat in the summer; the conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they
+their houses in the rocks; the locusts have no king, yet go they forth all
+of them by bands; the spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings'
+palaces." To the same class may be referred the following paragraph in the
+third chapter of Ecclesiastes: "To every thing there is a season, and a
+time to every purpose under the heaven: a 'time to be born, and a time to
+die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time
+to kill, and a time to heal: a time to break down, and a time to build up;
+a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
+a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time
+to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to get, and a
+time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and
+a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to
+love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace."</p>
+
+<p>Enigmatical questions and answers may easily degenerate into mere childish
+amusement: but it is due to the celebrity of the queen of Sheba, to
+suppose that her inquiries were principally directed to the great purpose
+of information. She was indeed curious to <i>prove</i> Solomon, to ascertain
+whether his reputation for wisdom were the result of mere courtly
+panegyric and flattering report, or whether it really originated in a
+supernatural endowment--but still more anxious to acquire knowledge
+"concerning the name of the Lord." While, therefore, she discovered a
+laudable desire of information upon subjects connected with the
+improvement of her mind, in general knowledge, and in political wisdom;
+she aspired after a more intimate acquaintance with that heavenly truth,
+which had hitherto been almost exclusively communicated to the descendants
+of Abraham. In this she may be exhibited as a pattern for the particular
+imitation of her own sex. No exterior accomplishments, no personal
+attractions can reconcile an intelligent observer to an ignorant mind;
+while such an one would be easily persuaded to dispense with external
+beauty, for the sake of mental and moral worth. He would prize the jewel,
+and overlook the inferiority of the casket. Curiosity is one of the most
+powerful principles of our nature, and may be indulged where it is not
+perverted. Let a woman assiduously cultivate, in early life especially,
+her mental faculties, and cherish an inquisitive spirit upon all the
+subjects of knowledge within the reach of her pursuit, still under the
+constant regulation of modesty and her sister graces; and let her never
+for a moment imagine, that knowledge is inimical either to her personal
+happiness and influence, or to her domestic duties. So far, indeed, as an
+intemperate persuit of learning disqualifies a woman for the sphere which
+Providence has allotted her, so far as she is rendered proud, pedantic,
+unsocial, assuming, and negligent of the proper business of every day in
+her family, it is to be discouraged; not from the consideration that
+<i>knowledge</i> is an evil, but the <i>misuse</i> of it. Its legitimate tendency is
+to improve the female character--to polish off the asperities and
+roughnesses occasioned by the indulgence of pride--to teach her the proper
+duties of her station, and the best means of discharging them--to elevate
+her into the interesting and intelligent companion of social and domestic
+life--to constitute her the best instructor of her children, at that early
+period when the first buddings of intellect are discernible, the first
+tendencies of the mind begin to be developed, and the character for time,
+perhaps for eternity, is to be formed. It is then under the hand of
+maternal tenderness the model of the future man or woman is to be made;
+for it is seldom, even in the most unhappy cases of apostacy, that traces
+of this early formation are by any circumstances totally obliterated.</p>
+
+<p>But while we plead for the cultivation of the youthful mind, by a diligent
+use of all the advantages which are afforded to impart knowledge, be it
+remembered, that the "wisdom which is from above" must not only be
+sought--but sought <i>first,</i> as of paramount importance. With all our
+conscious superiority in other respects, if destitute of the knowledge of
+"the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom he hath sent," we shall prove
+but as "a sounding brass, and as a tinkling cymbal." Our boasted
+attainments, as enhancing our responsibility, will minister to our final
+condemnation; and while imagining we have been defective in nothing, we
+shall feel the everlasting remorse connected with the conviction of having
+forgotten or despised the "ONE thing NEEDFUL."--</p>
+
+<blockquote>"'Tis Religion that can give<br />
+Sweetest pleasures while we live;<br />
+'Tis Religion can supply<br />
+Choicest comforts when we die."</blockquote>
+
+<p>Solomon conducted himself to the queen of Sheba in a manner highly worthy
+of his wisdom, and instructive to those who are distinguished from others
+by any natural or acquired superiority. He was neither reserved nor
+impatient, but suffered her to "commune with him of all that was in her
+heart. And Solomon told her all her questions; there was not any thing hid
+from the king, which he told her not." It ill becomes those who can teach,
+to be supercilious and uncommunicative. As the rich are required to supply
+the necessities of the poor with a judicious liberality, being expressly
+appointed as the trustees of Providence, and dispensers of its bounty; and
+as those who withhold, when it is in the power of their hands to give, are
+unfaithful stewards; so, persons qualified to be the instructors of
+others, or who assume a station which presupposes such a qualification,
+ought to exert their talents and employ their time for the benefit of the
+uninformed. Is not this a lesson for the ministers of the sanctuary? For
+what purpose is "heavenly treasure" committed to "earthen vessels?" Is it
+not for distribution? Are they not made rich in spiritual gifts, graces,
+and knowledge, that, instead of monopolizing their spiritual possessions,
+they may aim to supply and enrich an impoverished world? The true
+ministerial spirit breathes in the language of Peter to the lame man, who
+was laid daily at the gate of the temple, "Silver and gold have I none,
+<i>but such as I have give I thee</i>; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,
+rise up and walk."</p>
+
+<p>Every thing her eyes beheld at Jerusalem produced, in the queen of Sheba,
+surprise and admiration. Accustomed as all the eastern nations were to
+splendour, she had never before witnessed such an universal and surpassing
+magnificence. Solomon's wisdom--his house--his luxurious table--his
+servants--his ministers--the temple, and the devotional manner of his
+attendance upon its services, struck her with overwhelming astonishment.
+When she had seen all these, "there was no more spirit in her."</p>
+
+<p>It is easy to imagine that the TEMPLE, a structure which has been admired
+in every age for its unparalleled glory, and for which such minute
+directions were given by Jehovah himself, must have attracted particular
+notice; especially when it is considered, that the science of architecture
+was, at that period, in a very infantine state, compared to its subsequent
+progress amongst the Greeks and Romans, and that temples were a species of
+building probably unknown to the queen of Sheba. It is notorious that the
+Persians, who worshipped the sun, erected no temple, from a persuasion it
+would be derogatory to his glory who had the whole world for his
+habitation; and hence the magi exhorted Xerxes to destroy all the temples
+in his expedition to Greece. The Bithynians worshipped on the mountains,
+the ancient Germans in the woods; and Diogenes, Zeno, and the Stoics,
+expressly condemned the erection of such edifices. The Arabians rendered
+homage to the sun, stars, and planets; and their religion resembled the
+ancient Chaldean superstition. The illustrious visitor of Solomon must,
+therefore, have been confounded at an architectural magnificence so
+superior to any thing she had ever before witnessed.</p>
+
+<p>The inspired historian also mentions the house of the forest of Lebanon;
+his own palace, which occupied thirteen years in building; a house for
+Pharaoh's daughter whom he married; with other expensive erections. "All
+these were of costly stones, (according to the measures of hewed stones,
+sawed with saws,) within and without, even from the foundation unto the
+coping, and so on the outside towards the great court. And the foundation
+was of costly stones, even great stones; stones of ten cubits, and stones
+of eight cubits. And above were costly stones, (after the measures of
+hewed stones) and cedars."</p>
+
+<p>Josephus gives the following amplified description of these buildings:
+"This house (the king's palace) was a large and curious building, and was
+supported by many pillars, which Solomon built to contain a multitude for
+hearing causes, and taking cognizance of suits. It was sufficiently
+capacious to contain a great body of men, who would come together to have
+their causes determined. It was a hundred cubits long, and fifty broad,
+and thirty high, supported by quadrangular pillars, which were all of
+cedar, but its roof was according to the Corinthian order, with folding
+doors, and their adjoining pillars of equal magnitude, each fluted with
+three cavities; which building was at once firm and very ornamental. There
+was also another house so ordered, that its entire breadth was placed in
+the middle; it was quadrangular, and its breadth was thirty cubits, having
+a temple over against it, raised upon massy pillars; in which temple there
+was a large and very glorious room, wherein the king sat in judgment. To
+this was joined another house, that was built for his queen. There were
+other smaller edifices for diet, and for sleep, after public matters were
+over; and these were all floored with boards of cedar. Some of these
+Solomon built with stones of ten cubits, and wainscotted the walls with
+other stones that were sawed, and were of great value, such as are dug out
+of the earth for the ornaments of temples, and to make fine prospects in
+royal palaces, and which make the mines whence they are dug famous. Now
+the contexture of the curious workmanship of these stones was in three
+rows, but the fourth row would make one admire its sculptures, whereby
+were represented trees, and all sorts of plants, with the shades that
+arose from their branches, and leaves that hung down from them. Those
+trees and plants covered the stone that was beneath them, and their leaves
+were wrought so prodigiously thin and subtle, that you would think they
+were in motion: but the other part up to the roof was plastered over, and,
+as it were, embroidered with colours and pictures. He moreover built other
+edifices for pleasure; as also very long cloisters, and those situate in
+an agreeable place of the palace; and among them a most glorious
+dining-room, for feastings and compotations, and full of gold, and such
+other furniture as so fine a room ought to have for the conveniency of the
+guests, and where all the vessels were made of gold. Now it is very hard
+to reckon up the magnitude and the variety of the royal apartments; how
+many rooms there were of the largest sort; how many of a bigness inferior
+to those; and how many that were subterraneous and invisible; the
+curiosity of those that enjoyed the fresh air; and the groves for the most
+delightful prospect, for the avoiding the heat, and covering of their
+bodies. And to say all in brief, Solomon made the whole building entirely
+of white stone, and cedar wood, and gold, and silver. He also adorned the
+roofs and walls with stones set in gold, and beautified them thereby in
+the same manner as he had beautified the temple of God with the like
+stones. He also made himself a throne of prodigious bigness, of ivory,
+constructed as a seat of justice, and having six steps to it; on every one
+of which stood, on each end of the step, two lions, two other lions
+standing above also; but at the sitting-place of the throne, hands came
+out and received the king; and when he sat backward, he rested on half a
+bullock, that looked towards his back, but still all was fastened together
+with gold." [<a href="#foot38">38</a>]</p>
+
+<p>If human happiness were uniformly proportionate to the degree of elevation
+in the scale of society, and the extent of worldly riches, some plausible
+pretence might be framed for that eager ambition which characterizes so
+large a part of mankind; but, if Solomon may be congratulated as
+remarkably happy, this arose not from his being unusually rich, but
+pre-eminently wise. In vain does any one expect substantial enjoyment, who
+despises or neglects religion; while he who possesses it can never be
+miserable. "Having nothing, he yet possesses all things." If it be not our
+condition, but the state of our mind, that constitutes the blessedness of
+life, exterior circumstances can neither confer nor deprive us of real
+peace. The "contentment" which "godliness" imparts, is "great gain;"
+because it renders its possessor, in a high degree, independent of the
+vicissitudes that agitate this terrestrial scene, raises him above the
+tempests of this transitory state of existence to a higher sphere, and
+admits him into the very precincts of heaven. If Solomon had been endowed
+with <i>wealth</i>, but remained destitute of <i>wisdom</i>, we should have looked
+down upon his earthly splendour as a fading dream, or as the tinsel
+decoration of a littleness which, by this means, became the more
+contemptible; had he been possessed of <i>wisdom</i> without <i>wealth</i>, we
+should still have regarded him as the first of our species, and rich in
+all the requisites of real felicity.</p>
+
+<p>Having recovered from the ecstacy which the first impression of Solomon's
+wisdom and magnificence produced, the queen of Sheba said to the king, "It
+was a true report, that I beard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy
+wisdom. Howbeit, I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had
+seen it; and, behold, the half was not told me; thy wisdom and prosperity
+exceedeth the fame which I heard. Happy are thy men, happy are these thy
+servants which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom,
+Blessed be the Lord thy God which delighteth in thee, to set thee on the
+throne of Israel; because the Lord loved Israel for ever, therefore made
+he thee king to do judgment and justice."</p>
+
+<p>Many reflections occur upon reading this noble panegyric. Nothing is so
+conducive to the true glory of a monarch, and the real interests of his
+people, as an entire self-devotement to the proper business of government.
+He who avoids the splendid course of ambition, to cultivate the arts of
+peace, and to promote, by judicious regulations, the internal welfare of
+his dominions, may not always glitter upon the page of history; but will
+live in the hearts of his people, and be embalmed in their grateful
+recollections. He will have the satisfaction, when commanded by Providence
+to lay aside his crown, to leave to his subjects what is infinitely better
+than extended empire, an <i>example</i> worthy of their imitation.</p>
+
+<p>It becomes us to recognize a superintending providence in the appointment
+of rulers to their stations--to remember that "promotion cometh neither
+from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south; but God is judge, he
+putteth down one, and setteth up another"--and that the gift of a good
+king is a mark of favour, and ought to excite a people's gratitude. It was
+because "the Lord loved Israel forever," that Solomon was placed upon the
+throne. Confining our attention solely to second causes, and the limited
+horizon of the political theatre, we may frequently perceive nothing but
+confusion--the struggles of ambition--the uproar of passion--the ravings
+of impiety--the clash of arms--the subversion of thrones--the desolation
+of provinces--the flow of human blood--and an interminable series of
+changes, both unexpected and mysterious;--but when the light of Scripture
+breaks upon the dark and troubled scene, it discloses the footsteps of
+Deity walking in the midst of the storm, regulating all human affairs, and
+rendering every occurrence subservient to his own omniscient purposes.
+With these discordant elements he is moulding future events, and preparing
+to exhibit to the admiration of the intelligent universe, "a new heaven
+and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness."</p>
+
+<p>Comparing, further, the situation of the servants and courtiers of
+Solomon, with that of others in Pagan countries, we cannot help uniting in
+the congratulations of his noble visiter, and remarking the advantage of
+religious connexions in general. Wicked association is the bane of human
+society, and fatally conducive to the confirmation of evil habits and
+principles, or to the excitement of them. Such persons, therefore, as are
+connected with the people of God, who have pious parents or friends, or
+who are servants in religious families, cannot be too grateful to
+Providence, or too solicitous of improving their advantages. Let them be
+attentive to the instructions they receive, and anxious to understand and
+join in the devotions which are offered on the domestic altar.</p>
+
+<p>But this congratulatory strain of the queen of Sheba may be applied to the
+Christian age, and to "a greater than Solomon." Jesus Christ is "king in
+Zion," and happy are his servants which stand continually before him, to
+hear his wisdom; happy they who have "the glorious Gospel" in their
+possession, and, by means of the evangelical historians of the New
+Testament, witness the actions and hear the words of this divine
+Instructor! The intelligence that distinguished the king of Israel was but
+a single beam of light from the "Sun of Righteousness," by whom all
+spiritual knowledge is communicated to the world--who is the fountain of
+all wisdom, and whose glory will for ever irradiate and beautify a
+redeemed universe. When believers ascend above this inferior state of
+existence into the presence of God and the Lamb, notwithstanding all the
+communications of inspired penmen in the sacred page--owing to the
+imperfection of human language, and the circumstances of man, which, in
+some cases, render further instructions <i>impossible</i>, in others
+<i>improper</i>--such will be their discoveries of the glory of Jesus Christ,
+that the language of the queen of Sheba will prove peculiarly descriptive
+of their feelings, "behold, the half was not told me." And even here
+experienced piety exclaims, "whom having not seen we love; in whom, though
+now we see him not, yet believing, we rejoice with JOY UNSPEAKABLE AND
+FULL OF GLORY."</p>
+
+<p>The queen of Sheba did not return to her country till she had given
+Solomon a hundred and twenty talents of gold, besides a great quantity of
+spices and precious stones; a present, for which the king made suitable
+acknowledgments, by giving her "all her desire; whatsoever she asked,
+besides that which Solomon gave her of his royal bounty." Harmer remarks,
+"this appears strange to us; but is perfectly agreeable to modern Eastern
+usages, which are allowed to be derived from remote antiquity.</p>
+
+<p>"A reciprocal giving and receiving royal gifts has nothing in it strange;
+but the supposition of the sacred historian, that this Arabian queen
+<i>asked</i> for some things she saw in the possession of king Solomon, is what
+surprises us. However, the practice is very common to this day in the
+East--it is not there looked upon as any degradation to dignity, or any
+mark of rapacious meanness.</p>
+
+<p>"Irwin's publication [<a href="#foot39">39</a>] affords many instances of such a custom, among
+very considerable people, both in Arabia and Egypt, though not equal in
+power to the queen that visited king Solomon. They demanded from time to
+time, such things as they saw, and which happened to please them; arms,
+vestments, &amp;c. What the things were that so struck the queen of Sheba, as
+that <i>she asked</i> for them, and which Solomon did not before apprehend
+would be particularly pleasing to her, the sacred historian has not told
+us, nor can we pretend to guess.</p>
+
+<p>"Many other travellers have mentioned this custom, and shown that the
+great people of that country not only expect presents, but will directly,
+and without circumlocutions, ask for what they have a mind to have, and
+expect that their requisitions should be readily complied with; while,
+with us, it would be looked on as extremely mean, and very degrading to an
+exalted character." [<a href="#foot40">40</a>]</p>
+
+<p>This reciprocation of presents may be considered as illustrative of that
+homage which it becomes every heart to render to the Son of God, and of
+those divine communications of grace with which he will ever enrich the
+believer. We cannot indeed enhance his glory by the most splendid
+liberalities, or the most costly offerings; but he solemnly requires, and
+graciously deigns to accept our penitence and our obedience. "The
+sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O
+God, thou wilt not despise." Whatever be the present state of the world,
+it is pleasing to reflect that an omnipotent Providence is hastening the
+triumphs of Christ; and to this wise and glorious King of Israel, all the
+tribes of the earth shall ultimately present their best offerings and
+their united affections. "The kings of Tarshish and of the Isles, shall
+bring presents; the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. Yea, all
+kings shall fall down before him; all nations shall serve him."</p>
+
+<p>But what shall be said to those who refuse submission to the authority of
+Jesus Christ, and reject the blessings of his salvation? How pungent was
+his address to the Jewish nation, and how applicable to such characters in
+the present age! "The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment
+with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the
+uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a
+greater than Solomon is here." The queen of Sheba only had access to the
+wisdom of <i>Solomon</i>--but you have access to the wisdom <i>Christ</i>--she came
+from a <i>very distant region</i>--but "the word is <i>nigh thee,</i> even in thy
+mouth and in thy heart; that is, the word of faith which we preach"--she
+came <i>uninvited,</i> and upon the hazard of a favourable reception--but you
+are <i>requested</i> and <i>urged</i> to come to Jesus, and partake of the
+provisions which cover the well-spread table of his grace. His supplies
+are spiritual, and therefore invaluable. He does not promise gold, but
+dispenses "grace and glory."--He confers not the fading honours and
+transient distinctions of this life, but the joys of <i>salvation,</i> the
+blessedness of <i>heaven</i>, the riches of ETERNITY!</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="13"></a>The Shunammite</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter XIII.</h3>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="13-1"></a>Section I.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Characteristic Difference between profane and sacred History--the
+  Shunammite introduced--her Hospitality--Proposes to her Husband to
+  accommodate Elisha with a Chamber--the Gratitude manifested by the
+  Prophet in offering to speak for her to the King--her Reply expressive
+  of Contentment--various Considerations calculated to promote this
+  Disposition--Advantages of a daily and deep Impression of the transitory
+  Nature of our Possessions, and of keeping another Life in view.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>How strikingly different is the course of profane and sacred history! The
+former, searching out the most prominent characters that figure upon the
+stage of life, exhibits them in pompous language, and, by emblazoning
+their actions with the lustre of high-wrought description and extravagant
+panegyric, conceals from view those moral blemishes which a nearer
+inspection, through the medium of a more dispassionate narrative, would
+discover in all their enormity. Hence the Alexanders and C&aelig;sars of the
+world, whose mighty ambition, in marching to take possession of
+unoffending empires, has trampled on the rights of man, the fruits of
+industry, and the comforts of domestic life, and whose laurels are died
+with the blood of humanity, have nevertheless had their names transmitted
+with loud applause from age to age. High station, noble birth, great
+talents, or marvellous exploits, though associated with daring crime,
+constitute a sufficient passport to the historic page, which too often
+extols where it ought to censure: and instructs us to venerate a name
+which should rather be execrated.</p>
+
+<p>Sacred history pursues a different course. It records, indeed, the actions
+of the unworthy as well as of the pious; not that we should be roused to
+rapturous admiration of their achievements, but, by tracing the dreadful
+outline of their characters, and the fatal consequences of their guilt, be
+incited to avoid their vices. In general, those individuals whom civil
+history overlooks, are found in the inspired records, while "the mighty"
+and "the noble" remain unnoticed. Some few instances, indeed, of the lives
+of great men, in point of station and rank, furnish exceptions to this
+observation; but they are introduced, not because they were <i>great</i>, but
+because they were <i>pious</i>; or, if impious, because they stood connected
+with the church of God. Scripture does not so much furnish the history of
+the world as the history of the church and of human nature. It aims to
+instruct, not to amuse or astonish; and that, by the exhibition of
+characters remarkable in any respect for their efforts to oppose or to
+promote the purposes of eternal wisdom, or for the exhibition, in a
+private sphere, of those principles, the knowledge of whose diversified
+operations might prove useful to posterity.</p>
+
+<p>Shunem, or Sunam, a city of the tribe Issachar, would have been scarcely
+noticed or known but for the residence of an opulent female, who is
+Herself rendered forever illustrious in consequence of her friendship for
+the prophet Elisha, and the eminence of her religion: but, though "a great
+woman," her name is omitted in the narrative--of so little importance are
+those distinctions upon which mankind value themselves so highly! She is
+simply designated <i>the Shunammite</i>, after the name of her city.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 835]</p>
+
+<p>The inspired narrator notices, in the first place, the warmth of her
+hospitality, and its unabating continuance to Elisha. On a certain
+occasion, when he went to Shunem, she urged him to visit her, which issued
+in such a mutual esteem, that "as oft as he passed by, he turned in
+thither to eat bread." Among the ancients, and in a simple state of
+society, where the accommodations of modern travelling were unknown, the
+entertainment of strangers was considered as one of the first of duties.
+In all the Arab villages this necessary practice prevails. The sheikh, or
+principal person, generally invites strangers to his house, furnishes them
+with eggs, butter, curds, honey, olives, and fruit, when there is not
+sufficient time to dress meat: and, if they choose to remain during the
+night, they are treated with the utmost kindness. The Arabs value
+themselves highly upon their hospitality. "How often," says one of their
+poets, "when echo gave me notice of a stranger's approach, have I stirred
+my fire that it might give a clear blaze. I flew to him as to a prey,
+through fear that my neighbours should get possession of him before me."
+[<a href="#foot41">41</a>]</p>
+
+<p>The Scriptures furnish many examples of this duty. Abraham, in
+entertaining three strangers, is said to have "entertained angels
+unawares;" Lot received two angels into his house, who appeared as
+strangers in the streets of Sodom: Job affirms of himself, "The stranger
+did not lodge in the street; I opened my doors to the traveller;" a good
+widow, in the apostolic age, is described as washing the saints' feet,
+relieving the afflicted, and <i>lodging strangers</i>; and Gaius is represented
+as receiving Christian ministers into his house as his own children.</p>
+
+<p>Although a considerable difference of circumstances exists in more
+civilized countries, and in this age, so as to render such an extensive
+hospitality impossible, as well as in many cases unsafe; yet no change of
+custom and no lapse of time can preclude the duty itself, or diminish the
+force of the apostolic admonition, "be not forgetful to entertain
+strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." If an
+indiscriminate admission of strangers into the domestic circle might, in
+our case, be productive of great inconveniences, benevolence requires that
+those acts of kindness should be shown to others which comport with our
+means and opportunities, and that we should aim at such moderation in our
+usual expenditure as shall enable us to discharge the obligations of
+Christian charity. How, otherwise, can we "do unto others as we would that
+others should do unto us?" The wheel of Providence is perpetually
+revolving, and who knows but that he who is now at the summit of worldly
+prosperity, or in the full enjoyment of an easy competence, may soon be
+brought down to the level of the needy; and, though he may be in a
+condition to <i>confer</i> kindness to-day, may have to <i>solicit</i> it to-morrow?
+Who can be insensible to the privilege of the Saviour's final benediction,
+"Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from
+the foundation of the world: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat;
+I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in;
+naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visited me; I was in prison,
+and ye came unto me."</p>
+
+<p>The Shunammite did not entertain a stranger merely, but a prophet; and,
+from the conversation of Elisha, doubtless derived that spiritual
+edification which induced her to solicit his future friendship. Others
+came, departed, and were forgotten; but religion in each heart converted
+these strangers into friends, and cemented a holy union, which neither
+time, nor change, nor death, could dissolve.</p>
+
+<p>It is to be lamented, that the converse even of holy men in Christian
+families is not always tinged with that piety which renders it as "a sweet
+savour," and too frequently the ministers of the sanctuary fail to enforce
+the admonitions of the pulpit and fix the sacred impressions of the
+sabbath by "a conversation becoming the Gospel of Christ." What fine
+opportunities do they possess of "winning souls to Christ," or "building
+up the saints in their most holy faith," by the very nature of their
+office, and the extensive private intercourse to which it admits them! It
+would be well for <i>all</i> to cultivate that sort of spiritual adroitness for
+which <i>some</i> are truly remarkable, who can, with the utmost facility,
+glide from general topics of discourse to religious communications, which
+are so piously, and yet so delicately managed, that the most hostile are
+in some degree conciliated, and even pleased. The apostle of the Gentiles
+thus exhorts Timothy, "Be thou an example of the believers in word, in
+conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."</p>
+
+<p>This excellent Shunammite proposed to her husband to accommodate Elisha
+with a <i>little chamber</i> appropriated to his own use, with which he seems
+readily to have complied. This is much to the honour of both; to the one
+for her proposal, to the other for his compliance. It is a happy
+circumstance where those who have joined hands are united in heart, and,
+avoiding the spirit of domination, are equally anxious to fulfil the
+respective duties of their domestic character. The ground of her
+solicitation, was that of his being "a holy man of God," which, it is to
+be feared, would prove a very decisive <i>objection</i> to such a measure in
+many families, who wish to conceal their gay and licentious habits from
+such observance. The suggestion of this pious lady to her husband
+respecting the accommodation of their agreeable visiter, may remind us of
+the duty of women, 'to avail themselves of the opportunities with which
+providence favours them in married life, to give such useful hints to
+their husbands as their benevolence will naturally dictate. The
+multiplicity of engagements in which the husband is involved, in the
+prosecution of his daily concerns, often precludes those thoughts which
+might issue in plans of public utility or more private kindness; while the
+wife has leisure for this very important purpose. And to the honour of the
+female sex let it be recorded, that the poor and the destitute are
+indebted to the ladies of Britain for originating, and in many cases
+carrying into execution, some of the noblest schemes of Christian charity.</p>
+
+<p>Separate buildings, resembling the prophet's chamber, are frequently
+attached to houses in the East, sometimes rising a story higher than the
+house, at other times consisting of one or two rooms and a terrace: others
+are built over the porch or gateway, having most of the conveniences
+belonging to the house itself: they communicate by a door, into the
+gallery of the house, which the master of the family opens or shuts at
+his pleasure; besides another door, which opens from a private staircase
+immediately into the porch or street, without giving the least disturbance
+to the house. These back-houses are called <i>olee</i> or <i>oleah</i>, and in them
+strangers are usually lodged and entertained. The little chamber built by
+the Shunammite for Elisha was probably of this description. To this he had
+free access, without interfering with the family, or being interrupted by
+them in his devotions, and from it he might privately retire whenever he
+pleased. [<a href="#foot42">42</a>]</p>
+
+<p>The peculiar simplicity of the furniture in the prophet's chamber cannot
+fail of striking attention: it consisted of a <i>bed</i>, a <i>table</i>, a <i>stool</i>,
+and a <i>candlestick.</i> This scanty fitting up of his room is by no means to
+be attributed to disrespect or negligence: it is rather to be considered
+as characteristic of the simplicity of the times. The intention certainly
+was to accommodate Elisha in a manner expressive of reverence and esteem.
+The original term, unhappily rendered <i>stool</i> in our English version,
+signifies one of the most honourable kind of seats usually placed in an
+apartment, and is sometimes translated <i>throne</i>. In ancient times, the
+nations of the East were not so universally addicted as they are at
+present to sitting on the ground upon mats or carpets, but accustomed
+themselves to raised seats or chairs, which were sometimes sufficiently
+elevated to require a footstool. The <i>candlestick</i> is likewise to be
+considered as a mark of respect, if not of magnificence, and its
+particular use was to keep a light burning the whole night. Dr. Chandler
+mentions a lamp being placed in his room for this purpose in the house of
+a Jew, who was vice-consul for the English nation, at the place where he
+landed when about to visit the ruins of Asia Minor.[<a href="#foot43">43</a>]</p>
+
+<p>In general, however, the prophets chose to live in the plainest manner:
+they built their houses with their own hands, and wore a coarse dress of a
+dark brown colour. Instead of availing themselves of the opportunities
+with which they were often presented of acquiring riches, or of
+frequenting the luxurious tables of the great, they sometimes refused the
+most valuable presents. Of this we have a remarkable specimen when Elisha
+declined the gifts of Naaman, and inflicted a dreadful punishment upon
+Gehazi for his contrivance to secure them. If the mean attire and mode of
+living which distinguished the ancient prophets cannot be viewed in the
+light of an authoritative example to future ages, and if something may be
+reasonably conceded to the practices of different nations, this may be
+received as an axiom, that those whom Providence has appointed to the
+sacred office ought to avoid all unnecessary show in their appearance, and
+all ambitious aspiring after the vain splendours of life; for "the fashion
+of this world passeth away." On the other hand, it is the duty, and should
+be considered as the privilege of pious individuals, to whom Providence
+has dispensed riches or competence, to minister to the necessities of the
+poor servants of God, who, while devoting their lives to promote their
+spiritual comfort, and that of their families, have neither time nor means
+to rescue themselves from a state of dependence and poverty. "If they have
+been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister
+unto them in carnal things."</p>
+
+<p>Elisha was not insensible to all this kindness, but, on the contrary,
+feeling anxious to devise some means of requiting it, he intimated,
+during one of his visits, his wish to render his hostess any service in
+his power, and proposed what he thought might be the most acceptable;
+"Behold," said he, "thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what
+is to be done for thee? wouldst thou be spoken for to the king, or to the
+captain of the host?" It is gratifying to find that Elisha possessed so
+much influence at court, and that Jehoram, though an impious prince,
+honoured the man of God. But, perhaps, the king of Israel was more
+influenced in his attachment by the miracle which the prophet had lately
+performed in his favour, and the victory he had promised to him and his
+royal friends Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom, than by any proper regard
+to his person or his office.</p>
+
+<p>The answer of this Shunammite to the prophet's proposal was brief, but
+expressive: it indicated a mind full of contentment, and actuated in all
+its liberal devices by the purest motives. "I dwell," said she, "among
+mine own people;" <i>q. d</i>. "I am satisfied with my lot--I am happy in the
+circle in which I move--I have no wish to emerge from obscurity, persuaded
+that though I or my family might gain in point of distinction or wealth by
+your kind interference, we should lose a considerable portion of that real
+comfort which, in our estimation, is better than the greatest of earthly
+possessions."</p>
+
+<p>The sentiment of this pious lady is to be distinguished from the opinion
+which has prevailed in some parts of the world, that the perfection of
+religion consists in a total retirement from the intercourse of life to
+the cell of the monk or the cave of the hermit, and in passing the days
+and nights of existence in mere speculative contemplation. That separation
+from the world which the word of God enjoins, is a separation of
+<i>spirit</i>, a withdrawment of the affections from its criminal pursuits and
+guilty indulgences. It does not interdict all intercourse with mankind, or
+censure a diligent pursuit of business, but inculcates purity of
+character, and teaches us so to act in the particular sphere assigned us
+by the arrangements of Providence, that "our good works," may be "seen,"
+and our "light" may "shine before men."</p>
+
+<p>Religion is not an abstract principle, or a mere speculation; it is
+operative: God is its source and end, but society its proper sphere of
+action. In circumstances of perplexity and trial its real nature is best
+developed, as conquering the irregularity of desire, pacifying the
+turbulence of passion, purifying all the principles of the corrupt heart,
+and forming men into the future associates of angels and "saints in
+light." The Shunammite did not retire from her people, her family, or her
+friends; but "<i>dwelt</i> amongst them," exemplifying those virtues which
+adorn domestic and social life, and securing, as we may infer from her
+expressions, that general esteem which such exalted goodness is calculated
+to procure. She discharged scrupulously and zealously the appropriate
+duties of her situation, and shone in the orbit allotted to her by Him
+whose infinite wisdom disposes all the arrangements of the natural and
+moral worlds, with conspicuous brightness and useful influence.</p>
+
+<p>Moreover, the language in question presents us with one of the finest
+specimens of contentment in the records of history. It may be affirmed
+without hesitation, that nothing can secure the exercise of this temper,
+in the present constitution of the human mind, but genuine religion. In
+cases where no such principle exists, dissatisfaction imbitters the cup of
+our earthly portion, and all those ambitious feelings which agitate and
+distress the life of man, acquire an uncontrolled ascendency. The
+discourse of Pyrrhus with Cineas is only a transcript of the impatient
+ambition of the generality of mankind. "If it please Heaven that we
+conquer the Romans," said the philosopher, "what use, sir, shall we make
+of our victory?"--"Cineas," replied the king, "your question answers
+itself. When the Romans are once subdued, there is no town, whether Greek
+or Barbarian, in all the country, that will dare to oppose us; but we
+shall immediately be masters of all Italy, whose greatness, power, and
+importance, no man knows better than you." Cineas, after a short pause,
+continued, "But after we have conquered Italy, what shall we do next,
+sir?" Pyrrhus, not yet perceiving his drift, replied, "There is Sicily
+very near, and stretches out her arms to receive us; a fruitful and
+populous island, and easy to be taken: for Agathocles was no sooner gone,
+than faction and anarchy prevailed among her cities, and every thing is
+kept in confusion by her turbulent demagogues."--"What you say, my
+prince," said Cineas, "is very probable; but is the taking of Sicily to
+conclude our expeditions?"--"Far from it," answered Pyrrhus, "for if
+Heaven grant us success in this, <i>that success shall only be the prelude
+to greater things</i>. Who can forbear Libya and Carthage, then within reach,
+which Agathocles, even when he fled in a clandestine manner from Syracuse,
+and crossed the sea with a few ships only, had almost made himself master
+of? And when we have made such conquests, who can pretend to say that any
+of our enemies, who are now so insolent, will think of resisting us?" "To
+be sure," said Cineas, "they will not; for it is clear that so much power
+will enable you to recover Macedonia, and to establish yourself
+uncontested sovereign of Greece. But when we have conquered all, what are
+we to do then?"--"Why then, my friend." said Pyrrhus, laughing, "we will
+take our ease, and drink, and be merry." Cineas, having brought him thus
+far, replied, "And what hinders us from drinking and taking our ease NOW,
+<i>when we have already those things in our hands at which we propose to
+arrive through seas of blood, through infinite toils and dangers, through
+innumerable calamities, which we must both cause and suffer?</i>" [<a href="#foot44">44</a>]</p>
+
+<p>One motive to contentment, which probably influenced the Shunammite, and
+which is calculated to inspire a similar feeling in every situation, arose
+from the conviction, that <i>happiness is much more equally diffused than we
+commonly imagine</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Whatever may be the diversities of human condition, and however preferable
+the situation of some above others may <i>seem</i>, to an inexperienced or
+careless observer, looking only at the <i>exterior</i> of society, Providence
+has so wisely adjusted its various inequalities, that it becomes extremely
+difficult to determine who possesses the most happy lot. Wherever
+particular advantages exist, they are balanced by proportionate evils, and
+the reverse: the golden cup often contains a bitter potion, while sweet is
+the draught and refreshing the supply, that is brought in a broken
+pitcher. The poor are apt to suppose, that opulence furnishes an
+inexhaustible fund of enjoyment; and that luxurious tables, sumptuous
+palaces, and a splendid retinue, confer a never-failing enjoyment;
+forgetting that riches create a thousand artificial wants, a thousand
+fantastic desires, which it is utterly impossible to supply. The wealthy
+look with pity upon the indigent, as condemned to an irksome and perpetual
+drudgery, and destitute of all means of enjoying life; a pity they might
+well spare, did they know that labour sweetens rest, and that unpampered
+appetite has none of those loathings which luxury superinduces. Riches and
+poverty are not then, according to the miscalculations of mankind, terms
+of synonymous import with happiness and misery. The most exalted have many
+afflictions, the most depressed many comforts. The shafts of envy fly over
+the lowly cottage, and smite the towers of greatness; and while the
+peasant sleeps soundly in his humble cottage,</p>
+
+<blockquote>  "Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown."</blockquote>
+
+<p>It has been well remarked by Bishop Hopkins, that "there is scarcely any
+condition in the world so low, but may satisfy our <i>wants</i>; and there is
+no condition so high, as can satisfy our <i>desires</i>. If we live according
+to the law of nature and reason, we shall never be poor; but if we live
+according to fond opinion and fancy, we shall never be rich."</p>
+
+<p>The diversities of our temporal condition, therefore, illustrate the
+remark which Solomon has connected with very important advice; "In the day
+of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider; <i>God also
+hath set the one over against the other</i>, to the end that man should find
+nothing after him."</p>
+
+<p>Independently of these considerations, it may be questioned whether that
+change after which so many eagerly aspire, would really conduce to their
+happiness. The probability is, that <i>any</i> material alteration of
+circumstances is unfavourable to enjoyment, and that our respective
+destinies are so wisely arranged, that each one is, upon the whole, most
+likely to secure the greatest proportion of temporal felicity in the
+sphere originally assigned him, than in any other. His habits, his views,
+his friendships, are all fixed by his position and place in society, and
+all his mental faculties have been trained, so to speak, to this very
+spot. Any removal or change would be hazardous and more likely to impair
+than consummate his happiness. After the growth of years, the tree cannot
+be transplanted into another soil and air without long exhibiting symptoms
+of languishing, and sometimes a total decay.</p>
+
+<p>Another reflection calculated to promote a contented spirit is, that <i>if
+we were capable of tracing the tendencies, connexions, and ultimate
+results of all things as they are seen, by the eye of Omniscience, and
+established by omnipotent power, we should perceive as much reason to be
+thankful for what is denied us, as for what is bestowed</i>. The fancied good
+which we are so eager to obtain would, in many cases, be a real evil in
+possession. Our prejudices and passion prevent our forming a proper
+judgment, and were not our heavenly Father influenced by a truly parental
+solicitude for his people, the most fatal mischiefs would arise.</p>
+
+<p>Providence has two ways of punishing a repining or an impatient temper;
+the one is by <i>counteracting</i> it, by placing the imaginary good beyond the
+reach of attainment, and forcing back the wandering heart to its home and
+its God, by disappointing its expectations of happiness in earthly
+possessions. Such refusals, or rather obstructions to temporal success,
+are indications of the purest regard, as parents, <i>severely</i> kind, take
+away from their froward children those destructive weapons which had
+attracted them by their glittering appearance. Another, and a more
+dreadful mode of inflicting necessary chastisement, is, by <i>complying</i>
+with their wishes, and making them feel the insufficiency of what they
+desired to render them happy. They "forsook the fountain of living
+waters," and the "cisterns" they resolved to possess, prove to be "broken"
+and empty. In this case, they suffer the double penalty of dissatisfaction
+<i>in</i> the imaginary good for which they had sacrificed so much, and of deep
+remorse for a misconduct which has incurred the divine displeasure. It is
+said of Israel, "he gave them their request, but sent leanness into
+their soul."</p>
+
+<p>In considering the <i>denials</i> of Providence, it should not be forgotten,
+that what is in part an evil, may be a good upon the whole; the amputation
+of a disordered or fractured limb, as it necessarily produces great
+personal suffering, is in part an evil; but, inasmuch as it saves life, it
+is, on the whole, an important good. On the other hand, that which as in
+part good, may, on the whole, be an evil; the rich cargo with which a
+vessel is freighted may be considered in itself a good, but if it be
+retained to the destruction of the vessel tossed by a tempestuous ocean,
+and struck upon a sunken rock, it is, on the whole, a dreadful evil; and
+yet, in the vast concerns of the soul and eternity, what multitudes act
+upon this fatal principle--clinging to their treasures, though they sink
+them into perdition!</p>
+
+<p>It is obvious, therefore, that in order to understand the dispensations of
+Heaven, it is necessary to know the circumstances of each particular case,
+which the very limited extent of our present knowledge and capacities
+renders utterly impossible; and it cannot be doubted, that if we were
+acquainted with the <i>whole</i> subject, the most afflictive events of life,
+no less than the most pleasing, would be seen to form essential parts of
+that great system of mercy, by which the universal Disposer is promoting
+the ultimate and perfect felicity of all his children. "But let patience
+have her perfect work," for eternity will discover these mysteries of
+time. "<i>Now</i> we see through a glass darkly, but <i>then</i> face to face; now I
+know in part, but then shall I know even as also I am known."</p>
+
+<p>A third consideration, which, doubtless, influenced this contented
+Shunammite, was, <i>the vanity of the world</i>. The wise have always
+admitted, that the three principal objects of human desire, pleasures,
+riches, and honours, when weighed in the balances of truth, are "found
+wanting," and that, although the misplaced eagerness of mankind attributes
+to them a thousand charms, they are in reality, but "airy nothings."</p>
+
+<p>"As bubbles blown into the air," says Bishop Hopkins, "will represent a
+great variety of orient and glittering colours, not (as some suppose) that
+there are any such really there, but only they appear so to us, through a
+false reflection of light cast upon them; so truly this world, this earth
+on which we live, is nothing else but a great bubble blown up by the
+breath of God in the midst of the air, where it now hangs. It sparkles
+with ten thousand glories; not that they are so in themselves, but only
+they seem so to us through the false light by which we look upon them. If
+we come to grasp it, like a thin film, it breaks, and leaves nothing but
+wind and disappointment in our hands; as histories report of the fruits
+that grow near the Dead Sea, where once Sodom and Gomorrah stood, they
+appear very fair and beautiful to the eye, but, if they be crushed, turn
+straight to smoke and ashes." If, from general reflections, we descend to
+the particular details of life, it will still be found, that "while we
+eagerly pursue any worldly enjoyments, we are but running after a shadow;
+and as shadows vanish, and are swallowed up in the greater shade of night,
+so when the night of death shall cast its thick shade about us, and wrap
+us up in deep and substantial darkness, all these vain shadows will then
+disappear and vanish quite out of sight."</p>
+
+<p>The vanity of the world arises from the instability and mutation of human
+affairs, as well as from the comparative insignificance of all its best
+enjoyments. We say, "What a large estate does that distinguished
+personage <i>possess!</i>"--vain word and false--he is only a tenant for a
+day--to-morrow he will become the inhabitant of a sepulchre! What a
+mansion is yonder!--what a lovely family! what prospects in business! what
+admirable connexions! what charming society! O what an edifice of human
+happiness is here!--The Providence of God blows upon the four corners of
+the house, and it falls! "Here we have no <i>continuing</i> city"--no fixed,
+unalterable enjoyments--no permanent rest. Mutation is inscribed in
+characters clear and legible to the eye of reason, upon all terrestrial
+things; and so uncertain are our property, our health, our enjoyments, our
+friendships, our ALL upon earth, that, as the thistle-down is scattered by
+the gentlest breeze, these light and fair possessions may be wafted away
+by the first wind that rises, or the first touch of unexpected adversity.</p>
+
+<p>The impressive language of Scripture corroborates and illustrates these
+representations. Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of
+trouble. "He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as
+a shadow, and continueth not." ... "Lord, make me to know mine end, and
+the measure of my days what it is, that I may know how frail I am. Behold,
+thou hast made my days as a hand-breadth, and mine age is as nothing
+before thee: verily, every man at his best state is altogether vanity.
+Surely every man walketh in a vain show: surely they are disquieted in
+vain; he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them." ..."
+We spend our years as a tale that is told." ... "My days are like a shadow
+that declineth; and I am withered like grass," ... "As foreman, his days
+are as grass, as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth; for the wind
+passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no
+more." ... "Man is like to vanity; his days are as a shadow that passeth
+away." ... "I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and,
+behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit." ... "What hath man of all
+his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured
+under the sun? For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief, yea,
+his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity." ... "Who
+knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life
+which he spendeth as a shadow! for who can tell a man what shall be after
+him under the sun?" ... "Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher, all is
+vanity." ... "Go to now, ye that say, To-day or to-morrow we will go into
+such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell and get gain;
+whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It
+is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and than
+vanisheth away."</p>
+
+<p>A fourth reason for contentment, and which we cannot doubt influenced the
+pious woman of Shunem, is to be derived from a <i>view of that future
+happiness which infinite goodness has provided for the children of God</i>.
+In the early period to which we are now adverting, "life and immortality"
+were not so distinctly "brought to light" as they are in the Christian
+dispensation by "the Gospel;" but from the day of the first promise of a
+Saviour, the believing mind perceived the grand purposes for which he was
+to descend into the world, and enjoyed some pleasing anticipations of that
+paradise, which it was his prerogative to confer upon one of his
+fellow-sufferers on the cross. If, as we believe, the Shunammite were
+acquainted with the existence, and, in some degree, with the glory of a
+future state; if with Job she felt convinced, that "though worms destroy
+this body, yet in her flesh she should see God;" if she knew any thing of
+that inexpressible charm which attaches to the blessedness of "a better
+country," arising from its unfading permanence,--the language of
+contentment which she uttered, was but the natural expression of a feeling
+which such discoveries were calculated to excite. It was sufficient, in
+her apprehension, to all the purposes of real happiness, to "pass the time
+of her sojourning," among her "own people," without seeking those
+distinctions which constitute only the vain decorations of a scene that
+passeth away. Nor did her principles merely promote satisfaction with her
+lot: they fortified her against the assault of temptation, a temptation
+presented in the least exceptionable form, and recommended by the sanctity
+of a prophet, who deliberately proposed to her an interference with the
+king, or the captain of the host, for her temporal advancement. Her words
+express an unalterable resolution of mind: "I dwell amongst mine
+own people."</p>
+
+<p>Every thing earthly possesses a character of insignificance from its
+transitoriness, while every heavenly object becomes inviting on account of
+its durability. A single hour may precipitate us from the highest worldly
+elevation--the proudest laurel that ever decked the brow of the proudest
+hero quickly fades; and he who sits out upon a journey of discovery to
+find the extent of human enjoyments, will soon "see an END of all
+perfection." But religion has laurels which never fade; crowns of glory
+which pass to no envious successor. Religion does not lay her foundations
+in the sand, but erecting her temple upon the shores of eternity, bids us
+enter in, to "go no more out."</p>
+
+<p>An apostle states, that "godliness hath the promise of the life which now
+is, and of that which is to come;" intimating the certainty of the
+existence of a future state, the nature of its felicities, and the
+essential connection between the <i>pursuit</i> and the ultimate <i>possession</i>
+of it. The value of this promise respecting the life to come, is not a
+little enhanced by its being accomplished precisely at that critical
+moment when every earthly hope expires, and every human joy departs.
+Godliness has, indeed, the promise of the life which "<i>now</i> is;" but, if
+it had <i>not</i>, the life which "now is" will soon terminate: the successive
+generations of mankind are hastening to the grave; <i>our</i> breath will soon
+cease--our possessions must soon be left--our days soon covered with the
+shadows of the last evening--all we fondly called <i>our own</i> scattered to
+the winds;--but at such a moment of desolation, the religion of Jesus
+points to regions of deathless felicity. His voice seems to sound across
+the gulf of death, in accents soft and sweet as the harps of angels, "I am
+the resurrection and the life." And the "life to come" is no other than
+the perfection of the Christian's life which "now is"--a life of love--a
+life of peace, purity, and praise--a life of incessant activity in the
+service of the blessed God. Hence his present spiritual life, is a kind of
+pledge and promise of his eternal life; the pantings and breathings of a
+holy mind after that world, are proofs that it is his <i>home;</i> and the
+believer in Christ becomes assured, that as he advances in spiritual
+attainments here, he is making so many approaches, hastening by so many
+steps, to the perfection and joy of eternity.</p>
+
+<p>A few brief observations on the advantages resulting from a daily and deep
+impression of the transitory nature of terrestrial possessions, and
+keeping the scenes of another life in constant view, shall close the
+present section.</p>
+
+<p>1. This will tend to moderate our earthly attachments. Affections were
+not implanted in our nature to be suppressed and extinguished. We may
+love, but we must not love inordinately. Love must be proportioned to the
+value of the object, and must be regulated by scriptural principles,
+otherwise we shall commit offence, and suffer injury. There is a remedy,
+and but one <i>effectual</i> remedy, for the errors of the heart. It is
+suggested by an apostle: "Set your affection on things above, not on
+things on the earth."</p>
+
+<p>2. A due impression of the present, and a just conception of the future,
+will conduce to the purification of our moral principles. Intermixture
+with the world, its business and concerns, and those solicitudes which
+occupy the attention in reference to transactions merely temporal, tend to
+vitiate the mind. In the pursuits of traffic we seem to live, as if we
+were destined to live here always. The interests of a moment engross and
+captivate the passions, and kindle ardours which burn with incessant
+vigour. The mind is brought close to present objects, in consequence of
+which they assume an unnatural magnitude, filling the whole sphere of
+vision, and excluding external realities from view. The effect of this is
+depraving: it contracts the soul, misdirects its energies, and blunts the
+edge of its spiritual sensibility.</p>
+
+<p>3. The sentiment we are wishing to inculcate will furnish us with
+consolation amidst adversities, and reconcile the spirit to bereaving
+dispensations. The present is a probationary state; and although the
+particular mode of suffering be unknown, afflictions are not unexpected by
+Christians. But whatever is transitory is tolerable--</p>
+
+<blockquote>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"----the darkest day,<br />
+Live till to-morrow, will have pass'd away."</blockquote>
+
+<p>As their own condition is subject to vicissitude, they know also the
+uncertainty of every other, and realize the possibility of separation from
+their nearest and dearest connections. The severity of disappointment is
+here diminished; for what cannot be retained, or is precarious, or <i>ought</i>
+to be resigned, is dispensed with, if not without a sigh or tear, at least
+without a resentment against the smiting hand of Providence.</p>
+
+<p>4. This comparative view of our two states of being, and this just
+estimate of their proportionate importance, will prepare us for our own
+dissolution. The feeling that we have no fixed, no permanent abode on
+earth, will familiarize the mind with the consideration, that "it is
+appointed unto men once to die." If, when a fatal disease attacked the
+constitution, we thought for the first time of our removal from the
+present scene, the effect would be unspeakably painful, and hence arises
+the despondency which often pervades the mind of such as have moved only
+in circles of gayety and dissipation; but a Christian frequently meditates
+upon the final hour. While looking at this or that valued possession, he
+reflects, "I must soon leave it: the loan will, in a short period, be
+reclaimed."</p>
+
+<p>Nor is this all. The prospect before him is exhilarating. "To die is
+gain." If the death of a man resembled that of a beast, if the termination
+of life were the extinction of being, the prospect would be inexpressibly
+alarming: but the religion of Jesus confers a victory over every fear by
+revealing immortality. A Christian knows there is something worth dying
+for; and this animates him to walk with a firm step down "the valley of
+the shadow of death." He is guided through a darkness impervious to
+reason. A beam from the "excellent glory" lights him HOME!</p>
+
+
+
+<h4><a name="13-2"></a>Section II.</h4>
+
+
+<blockquote>  Elisha promises a Son to the Shunammite--his Birth--his sudden Death, in
+  consequence of facing sun-smitten--she repairs to the Prophet--her
+  expression of profound Submission to the Will of God--her subsequent
+  impassioned Appeal to Elisha--the Child restored to Life--the
+  Shunammite's Removal into Philistia, and Return--her successful
+  Application to the King for the Restoration of her Property.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>Defeated in his benevolent intentions by the unambitious spirit of the
+Shunammite, Elisha consulted his confidential servant Gehazi, through whom
+the former communication had been made, respecting what could be done for
+her benefit. Sincere as her refusal had been, he found it impossible to
+satisfy himself without some further attempt to express his gratitude; and
+upon the suggestion of Gehazi that she had no child, the prophet directed
+that she should be again called into his presence. "And he said, About
+this season, according to the time of life, thou shall embrace a son."</p>
+
+<p>It is not improbable, that although Elisha addicted himself to great
+retirement, Gehazi might be in the habit of familiar intercourse with this
+pious family, by which means perhaps he found that they were anxious upon
+this point; at least, if that spirit of perfect contentment which breathed
+in the language on which we have already offered some observations,
+influenced them on this as well as on other occasions, they no doubt had
+intimated, in a moment of unreserved intercourse, that a child would prove
+a most acceptable gift of Providence.</p>
+
+<p>The brevity of the sacred history precludes that detail of circumstances
+attending any particular transaction which it sometimes seems necessary
+to suppose.</p>
+
+<p>In the present case, it is not to be presumed that Elisha would have
+ventured, <i>immediately</i>, upon the mere suggestion of Gehazi, to give so
+important a promise to the Shunammite as that which is here recorded,
+without first consulting the will of Heaven, or receiving some divine
+intimation of an event which no human being could foresee, much less make
+the subject of a solemn prediction.</p>
+
+<p>Upon his announcing so unexpected a mercy, she manifested that sort of
+incredulity which extreme astonishment blended with joy is calculated at
+the first moment to produce; and the well-known effect of which accounts
+for what, under other circumstances, would appear like disrespectful
+language: "Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid."
+She was too much acquainted with Elisha's character to intend to charge
+him with deliberate falsehood; but her feelings were suddenly overpowered,
+and consequently, she was at no leisure to weigh her words. The prophet's
+prediction was completely verified; and she had a son, "at that season
+that Elisha had said unto her, according to the time of life,"--"Lo!
+children are a heritage of the Lord; and the fruit of the womb is
+his reward."</p>
+
+<p>In reviewing the scriptural account of remote ages, we cannot fail to be
+struck with several instances of the extreme anxiety of good women for the
+possession of children; an anxiety which requires some other reason than
+the general causes to be assigned for domestic and social congratulations
+common upon such occasions. Sarah, for example, the wife of Abraham, was
+induced by this desire to practise a piece of wretched and criminal
+policy, in giving Hagar, her Egyptian handmaid, to her husband. Rachel,
+the beloved wife of Jacob, was so impatient of her own barrenness, and so
+envious of her sister, that she exclaimed, "Give me children, or else I
+die." The fact was, that they were influenced by the promises of God to
+Abraham, whose posterity were to inherit the most invaluable blessings,
+and from whom the Messiah himself was to descend in the fulness of time.
+As in him "all the families of the earth were to be blessed," who can be
+surprised that the most distant probability or possibility of introducing
+him, who was to be "born of a woman," into the world, should excite an
+ardent wish in every pious woman to become a mother? And here it must be
+admitted, that whatever reproach the first transgressor might have cast
+upon the female sex by her misconduct, it is forever wiped away by the
+enviable distinction of becoming instrumental to a Saviour's birth.</p>
+
+<p>The time hastened in which the Shunammite was to be subjected to a species
+of trial different from that with which she had been hitherto exercised.
+The congratulations of her connections on the birth of her child were
+scarcely expressed, and her earthly happiness consummated, when she was
+destined to suffer acutely by the death of her little favourite.</p>
+
+<p>Those who have never felt a similar deprivation are necessarily
+disqualified from forming any adequate idea of the bitterness of parental
+grief, when the objects of their fondest solicitude are suddenly snatched
+from the grasp of their affections. It is difficult to say in what period
+of youthful history this stroke is severest, or when it is most tolerable;
+because every point of age has its peculiar attractions, and parental love
+will always imagine that to be the most afflicting in which the event
+occurs. Happy those who can adopt the language of one of the sweetest
+epitaphs that ever adorned a monument!--</p>
+
+<blockquote>"Liv'd--to wake each tender passion,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;And delightful hopes inspire;<br />
+Died--to try our resignation,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;And direct our wishes higher:--</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>"Rest, sweet babe, in gentle slumbers,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;Till the resurrection morn;<br />
+Then arise to join the numbers,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;That its triumphs shall adorn.</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>"Though, thy presence so endearing,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;We thy absence now deplore;<br />
+At the Saviour's bright appearing,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;We shall meet to part no more.</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>"Thus to thee, O Lord, submitting,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;We the tender pledge resign;<br />
+And, thy mercies ne'er forgetting,<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;Own that all we have is thine." [<a href="#foot45">45</a>]</blockquote>
+
+<p>It is not unusual for the providence of God to deprive us of those objects
+we had too exclusively and too fondly called <i>our own</i>, and the long
+enjoyment of which we had confidently anticipated. This is no capricious
+proceeding: it is marked by wisdom and goodness, since our real happiness
+depends on the regulation of those passions which, but for such
+dispensations, would rove with unhallowed eccentricity from the chief
+good. It is necessary that we should be trained in the school of
+adversity; and that by a course of corrective discipline, nicely adapted
+to each particular case, our characters should be gradually matured for a
+nobler existence.</p>
+
+<p>The manner in which the calamity to which we have referred overtook the
+Shunammite, is thus detailed by the faithful pen of inspiration. "And when
+the child was grown, it fell on a day that he went out to his father to
+the reapers. And he said unto his father, My head, my head! And he said to
+a lad, Carry him to his mother. And when he had taken him and brought him
+to his mother, he sat on her knees till noon, and then died."</p>
+
+<p>From this brief statement it is evident that this child was smitten by the
+sun, in consequence of exposing himself in the harvest field to the
+intensity of the season. In northern climates it is difficult to realize
+the danger; but in the torrid zone great precaution is necessary to avoid
+such calamities. Observing the effects of the sun's rays, Apollo is
+represented, in heathen mythology, as holding a bow, and shooting his
+arrows upon the earth.</p>
+
+<blockquote>  "Pay sacred reverence to Apollo's song,<br />
+Lest watchful the far-shooting god emit<br />
+His fatal arrows."</blockquote>
+
+<blockquote>                     PRIOR'S Callimachus.</blockquote>
+
+<p>The heat in some parts of Judea has often proved fatal, even at a very
+early period of the year. In a battle fought by king Baldwin IV. near
+Tiberias in Galilee, as many are said to have died in both armies by the
+heat as by the sword; and an ecclesiastic of eminence, although carried in
+a litter, expired under mount Tabor, near the river Kishon, in consequence
+of the excessive heat. Shunem was in the neighbourhood of Tabor. [<a href="#foot46">46</a>]</p>
+
+<p>As soon as the Shunammite found that her son was dead, she took him to
+the prophet's chamber, and laying him on his bed, shut the door and
+departed. The only reason of this proceeding probably was, its being the
+most retired part of the house, and therefore the best suited to such a
+melancholy occasion. But who can express the yearnings of her maternal
+tenderness, when she left behind her this precious, but now insensible
+clay! That tongue which had so often pleased her by its innocent prattle,
+so often uttered</p>
+
+<blockquote>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;----"the fond name<br />
+That wakes affection to a flame,"</blockquote>
+
+<p>was now silent in death; and those artless and attractive smiles, which to
+a mother's heart were more lovely than the looks of the morning, were
+subsided into the fixed and motionless aspect of one whose spirit has
+ceased to animate the body.</p>
+
+<p>An impatient temper might have invented many reasons for discontent, on
+this affecting occasion. It might have reproached the father for
+permitting the child to accompany him, at this sultry season, into the
+harvest field--the child for an infantine eagerness to go--or herself for
+indiscreetly allowing of so dangerous a gratification. A comparison of the
+happier lot of other families might have been drawn, whose children went
+out on the same day, and returned unsmitten by the infectious atmosphere,
+or the burning sun; and by aggravating the painful peculiarity of her own
+affliction, she might thus have driven the barbed arrow still deeper in
+her bosom, and censured, at least by implication, the Supreme Disposer.
+But we have to admire a conduct which bespeaks the fullest conviction that
+it was a <i>providence</i> and not a <i>casuality</i> that occasioned the death of
+her beloved offspring, and evinces the most entire acquiescence in the
+mournful event.</p>
+
+<p>While our attention is confined solely to second causes, the mind will be
+involved in a labyrinth of difficulties, in judging of the changes and
+trials incident to the present life; but when our faith ascends above this
+low and limited scene, to contemplate the arrangements of an universal
+Providence, the deepest mysteries become unravelled, and the greatest
+seeming inconsistencies in a considerable degree reconciled. Or, if we
+cannot develope the whole plan, and ascertain the reason of every movement
+of almighty Wisdom, we at least acquire a spirit of submission and
+obedience.</p>
+
+<p>Some persons are so overwhelmed by their sorrows as to be totally
+disqualified for their duties: but, although the world may applaud this
+acute sensibility, religion condemns it. As the effect of mere passion, it
+has nothing in it which can secure the approbation of God; on the
+contrary, it is offensive to him, who, while he permits us to weep, does
+not allow us to despond, and who often sees it best to humble a refractory
+spirit by a repetition of chastisement.</p>
+
+<p>This excellent Shunammite, after making the necessary arrangements for her
+poor departed son in the prophet's chamber, instead of sitting down to
+indulge her own melancholy feelings, or court the compassion of her
+domestics and friends, despatched a messenger to her husband, to request
+that a servant might be sent to her with one of the asses, for the purpose
+of going to pay a visit to the man of God. As she had not told him the
+motive of this sudden determination, he remonstrated, because it was
+"neither new moon nor sabbath," that is, neither the usual time of secular
+or sacred journeys. [<a href="#foot47">47</a>] He was, however, easily satisfied when she
+intimated that she had a good reason for wishing to pay this visit. "She
+said, It shall be well."</p>
+
+<p>"See," says pious Matthew Henry, "how this husband and wife vied respects;
+she was so <i>dutiful to him</i> that she would not go till she had acquainted
+him with her journey, and he so <i>loving to her</i> that he would not oppose
+it, though she did not think it fit to acquaint him with her business."</p>
+
+<p>Equipped according to the eastern mode of travelling, the Shunammite
+mounted an ass, and ordered the man appointed to attend her and goad on
+the animal, to make all possible haste to mount Carmel. As soon as Elisha
+saw her coming, he sent Gehazi to salute her with these inquiries: "Is it
+well with thee? Is it well with thy husband? Is it well with the child?"
+As she came at so unexpected a moment, and with such evident haste, the
+prophet was naturally apprehensive that some calamity had befallen her,
+and, as he felt a deep interest in all her concerns, first inquired
+respecting what he well knew lay near her heart, the welfare of her
+family. Her reply was short, but remarkable: "IT IS WELL."</p>
+
+<p>Some have considered this merely as an evasive answer, made for the
+purpose of avoiding conversation with Gehazi, with whom she did not wish
+to enter into the particulars of her present situation. This, however, is
+an improbable interpretation, because it would by no means comport with
+the general integrity of her character, nor with the respect which was
+due, and which we know she cherished, for the prophet. This was doubtless
+the message with which Gehazi returned to his master, who, from his
+ignorance of her precise circumstances, could not, till her own subsequent
+explanation, comprehend the elevated sentiments implied in such a general
+reply. A pious mind in similar circumstances would not hesitate to affirm,
+"<i>It is well</i>"--<i>well</i> with the living--<i>well</i> with the dead--<i>well</i> with
+those who, notwithstanding all their bereavements, are under the care of
+Heaven and enjoy the smiles of God--<i>well</i> with those whose disembodied
+spirits, escaped from the imprisonment of time, have ascended to the
+unfettered freedom, the unbounded felicity, of eternity.</p>
+
+<p>In this view the Shunammite recognized the sovereignty of God; his
+indisputable right to dispose of her and her affairs as he pleased. "Shall
+the clay say to him that formed it, What doest thou?" The unbending temper
+of infidelity will, perhaps, receive this as "a hard saying;" but it is
+affirmed in the inspired page, and must ever be admitted by him who is in
+his "right mind." Uncontrollable power, acting irrespectively of wisdom or
+goodness, would be indeed a terrific idea, and must issue in a state of
+universal anarchy; but the <i>perfection</i> of that Infinite Being who
+"sitteth upon the circle of the earth," secures the <i>righteous</i> exercise
+of the most irresistible authority; and of this we may ever be assured,
+that although his arm is omnipotent, it is never unmerciful.</p>
+
+<p>The Shunammite intended also to express her confidence in the goodness of
+God, however disguised by the afflictive nature of his dispensations. In a
+proper state of mind it will not be requisite, in order to produce
+resignation, that we should comprehend the whole design of every sorrow.
+We should bow to the mysteriousness of the event; and the patience of our
+endurance will not depend on the full developement and explanation of the
+mystery. Whether events accord with our wishes or oppose them, "It is THE
+LORD" will strike us into silence and submission.</p>
+
+<p>Upon this subject the declarations of the Scriptures are most encouraging.
+They affirm, that "he doth not willingly afflict or grieve the children of
+men"--that their own benefit requires the chastisement, of whatever
+description it may be--that not a needless sigh heaves the human bosom, or
+an unnecessary tear is made to flow--and that "all things work together
+for good to them that love God, to them that are the called according to
+his purpose." It cannot be doubted, that the all-wise Disposer could, if
+he had pleased, have prevented a single cloud from rising to darken the
+Christian's day, and by the interdictions of his Providence, as formerly
+by the blood sprinkled upon the door-posts of Israel in Egypt, have
+secured his people from the visitation of all the messengers of wo; but he
+knows that affliction is conducive to our real welfare, that it is a means
+of improving our character, and of preparing us for that state of perfect
+enjoyment where it shall be no longer necessary; and that it furnishes
+occasion for the exercise of those graces which adorn the Christian's
+character, and glorify his God.</p>
+
+<p>"We should endeavour," to use the words of a profound writer, "not to be
+distressed about any thing, but to take every event for the best. I
+apprehend this to be a duty, and the neglect of it to be a sin: for in
+truth, the reason why sin is sin, is merely because it is contrary to the
+will of God. If, therefore, the essence of sin consists in having a will
+contradictory to the known will of God, it seems clear to me, that when he
+discovers his will to us by events, we sin if we do not conform ourselves
+to it." Again, "Our own will, though it should obtain all it can wish,
+would never be contented; but we are contented from the very instant that
+we renounce it. We never can be contented with it," [<a href="#foot48">48</a>] nor otherwise
+than contented without it.</p>
+
+<p>It is highly proper to investigate the causes of our sorrows, to inquire
+how far they are occasioned by any thing sinful in ourselves. It becomes
+us to be humble and penitent before God, when we discover that our own
+misconduct has rendered it necessary for him who is "slow to anger" to
+inflict chastisement. It is to be feared that while we abhor the blasphemy
+of uttering the language of complaint, and of saying, like Jonah, "I do
+well to be angry," we often do not suspect the criminality of cherishing
+hard thoughts of Providence, doubting the propriety or repining at the
+continuance of afflictive dispensations. There exists, perhaps, a secret
+suspicion of his goodness, a latent spirit of revolt, which we dare not
+express, or which we flatter ourselves, because we give it another name,
+that we do not cherish.</p>
+
+<p>The people of God sometimes receive affliction with a gaze of wonder, as
+if it were the most unlikely of all occurrences. We feel no surprise when
+it attacks <i>others</i>, but live in the true spirit of the poet's
+representation,</p>
+
+<p>  "All men think all men mortal but <i>themselves</i>."</p>
+
+<p>In general terms we even acknowledge that we are not exempted; and yet,
+when actually visited by personal or relative troubles, we seem like a
+traveller suddenly overtaken by a thunderstorm; all is confusion and
+alarm: our faith, and hope, and joy, take wing, and leave us solitary and
+sad. In our alarm we forget God, think it "strange," brood with a
+melancholy, but guilty pleasure, over our sufferings, and act as if we
+thought that "God had forgotten to be gracious." But "let them that suffer
+according to the will of God, commit the keeping of their souls to him in
+well doing, as unto a faithful Creator."</p>
+
+<p>"Four things," observes Melancthon, "ought to be well impressed upon our
+minds respecting afflictions.</p>
+
+<p>"1. They are appointed. We do not suffer affliction by chance, but by the
+determinate counsel and permission of God.</p>
+
+<p>"2. By means of affliction God punishes his people; not that he may
+destroy them, but to recall them to repentance and the exercise of faith;
+for afflictions are not indications of displeasure, but of kindness--'He
+willeth not the death of a sinner.'</p>
+
+<p>"3. God requires us to submit to his afflictive dispensations, and to
+expend our indignation and impatience upon our own sins; and, since he
+determines to afflict his church in the present state, submission tends to
+glorify his name.</p>
+
+<p>"4. Resignation, however, is not all; he requires faith and prayer, that
+we may both seek and expect divine assistance. Thus he admonishes us,
+'Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will answer thee, and thou shalt
+glorify me.'</p>
+
+<p>"These four considerations are applicable to all our afflictions, and are
+calculated, if properly regarded, to produce that truly Christian
+patience, which essentially differs from mere philosophical
+endurance." [<a href="#foot49">49</a>]</p>
+
+<p>As soon as the Shunammite came to Elisha, she fell at his feet and
+embraced them. Gehazi attempted to thrust her away, but the prophet told
+him to desist, intimating that he perceived she was in some deep
+affliction with which he was unacquainted. Then bursting out in the abrupt
+language of impassioned grief, she exclaimed, "Did I desire a son of my
+lord? Did I not say, Do not deceive me?"</p>
+
+<p>If these words wear a complaining aspect, we must make allowance for the
+strength of maternal feelings; perhaps, too, notwithstanding her
+characteristic equanimity of temper, and the elevated piety of her mind,
+she was betrayed, in this instance, into some degree of impatience. It is
+remarkable, that some of the most eminent of saints have failed, in
+particular periods of their lives, in the exercise of those very
+dispositions for which they are particularly celebrated. That faithful
+page, which delineates the characters of men with perfect impartiality,
+represents Moses, distinguished for his <i>meekness</i>, as in a state of
+<i>violent irritation</i> when he saw the idolatry of Israel; in consequence of
+which he broke the two tables of stone to pieces on which the finger of
+God had inscribed his own laws--Job, to whom sacred and profane history
+have assigned extraordinary <i>patience</i>, in language the most emphatical,
+"<i>cursed his day</i>"--Peter, whose <i>courage</i> and <i>ardent zeal</i> in the
+service of his Divine Master were apparent on every other occasion, not
+only <i>trembled</i> before the simple intimation of a servant-maid that he was
+one of his friends, but <i>denied</i> him with <i>oaths</i> and <i>curses</i>. Such is
+the inconsistency of human character! Such are the shades that darken the
+brightest names. Such the salutary warnings that preceding ages transmit
+to those who have to follow the long train of heaven-bound travellers to a
+better existence!</p>
+
+<p>Let us turn our eyes for a moment from these specimens of mortal
+excellence to Him who was "holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from
+sinners;" and who has left us "an example, that we should follow his
+steps: who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth ... who his
+own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to
+sins, should live unto righteousness."</p>
+
+<p>Compassionating the distressed Shunammite, Elisha immediately adopted
+measures to afford her effectual consolation. He commanded Gehazi to
+hasten to the chamber appropriated to his use, and lay his staff upon the
+face of the child. He was to avoid the usual compliments upon meeting
+friends or strangers, in order that not a moment might be lost. [<a href="#foot50">50</a>] The
+bereaved mother, in the mean time refused to quit the prophet, to whom she
+was so much attached, and in whom she cherished such unbounded confidence;
+and he, affected by her sufferings, arose and accompanied her home.</p>
+
+<p>Gehazi fulfilled his commission; but finding no symptoms of life, he
+returned to inform his master, whom he met on the way. "And when Elisha
+was come into the house, behold, the child was dead, and laid upon his
+bed. He went in, therefore, and shut the door upon them twain, and prayed
+unto the Lord. And he went up, and lay upon the child, and put his mouth
+upon his mouth, and his eyes upon his eyes, and his hands upon his hands,
+and he stretched himself upon the child; and the flesh of the child waxed
+warm. Then he returned and walked in the house to and fro; and went up and
+stretched himself upon him; and the child sneezed seven times, and the
+child opened his eyes. And he called Gehazi, and said, Call this
+Shunammite. So he called her. And when she was come in unto him, he said,
+Take up thy son. Then she went in, and fell at his feet, and bowed herself
+to the ground, and took up her son, and went out."</p>
+
+<p>It is observable, that the attempt to reanimate the child by despatching
+the servant to place the prophet's staff upon its face utterly failed,
+possibly because "this act was done out of <i>human conceit</i>, not out of
+<i>instinct from God</i>." [<a href="#foot51">51</a>]</p>
+
+<p>Elisha, however, came, <i>prayed unto the Lord</i>, and succeeded in effecting
+a miraculous restoration of the departed child. The grateful mother may be
+classed among those who, through faith, "received their dead raised to
+life again." How animating the prospect of that moment when almighty power
+will be displayed in raising every human body from the grave, and
+reuniting it with its kindred spirit in a state of deathless existence!
+May we attain the "blessedness and holiness" of such as have "part in the
+<i>first</i> resurrection!"</p>
+
+<p>Only one other circumstance is mentioned in the history of the Shunammite.
+When Israel was threatened with a famine of seven years, Elisha forewarned
+her of the danger, and advised her retirement into some place of security
+and plenty. She accordingly removed with her family into the land of the
+Philistines. At the expiration of this period she returned; but finding
+that her property had become the prey of rapacity, or was alienated by
+some royal edict, she applied to the king for its restoration. This was
+perfectly consistent with her former character; for although she felt no
+eagerness for worldly advancement, and, indeed, refused it, piety did not
+require a total negligence of her civil rights, or of measures calculated
+to preserve her and her beloved family from a state of indigency.</p>
+
+<p>Providentially, at the precise moment of her application the king was
+conversing with Gehazi, who was informing him of Elisha's miracles, and in
+particular of the miracle he had performed upon the deceased son of the
+Shunammite. She was of course introduced under the most favourable
+circumstances; and having ascertained the identity of the present
+applicant, "the king appointed unto her a certain officer, saying, Restore
+all that was hers, and all the fruits of the field, since the day that she
+left the land even till now."</p>
+
+<p>Thus is afforded a striking exemplification of the remark of Solomon, "The
+king's heart is in hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it
+withersoever he will."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="14"></a>Esther.</h2>
+
+<h3>Chapter XIV.</h3>
+
+
+
+<blockquote>  The Feasts of the King of Persia--his Queen Vashti sent for--her Refusal
+  to obey the Summons--her Divorce--Plan to fill up the Vacancy--Esther
+  chosen Queen--Mordecai detects a Conspiracy--declines paying Homage to
+  Haman--Resentment of the latter, who obtains a Decree against the
+  Jews--Mordecai's Grief, and repeated Applications to Esther--she goes in
+  to the King--is accepted--invites the King and Haman to a
+  Banquet--Mortification of the latter at Mordecai's continued
+  Neglect--Orders a Gallows to be built for the disrespectful Jew--the
+  Honour conferred by the King upon Mordecai for his past Zeal in his
+  Service--Haman's Indignation--is fetched to a second Banquet--Esther
+  tells her feelings, and accuses Haman--his Confusion and useless
+  Intreaties--he is hung on his own Gallows--Mordecai's
+  Advancement--Escape of the Jews by the Intercession of Esther--Feast
+  of Purim.</blockquote>
+
+
+<p>One of the most delightful employments of the heavenly state will probably
+be, to investigate the past dispensations of Providence, and to make
+perpetual discoveries of its mysteries. In that world of light, events
+which are now covered with clouds and darkness impervious to the eye of
+sense, will become obvious to the view of "just men made perfect" in all
+their proportions, connexions, and combinations. The shadows of the
+morning having disappeared, the brightness of eternal noon will irradiate
+our existence.</p>
+
+<p>We are by no means to imagine, however, that it is inconsistent with the
+present arrangements of divine goodness to afford us information, even in
+this world, respecting his plans and purposes; we do "know," though it be
+but "in part." The book of providence is indeed the least intelligible to
+us of all that the wisdom of God has written: but we can read <i>some</i> of
+its pages, and understand <i>some</i> of its hieroglyphical characters. The
+histories of Scripture constitute a volume of elementary instructions, of
+which the narrative of ESTHER has always been regarded as singularly
+interesting.</p>
+
+<p>[Sidenote: Years before Christ, about 460.]</p>
+
+<p>In order to introduce this story, it will be requisite to take a cursory
+view of some previous occurrences. The scene is laid in Persia, in the
+days of Ahasuerus, another name, as learned men have generally agreed, for
+Artaxerxes Longimanus. After struggling with those perplexing competitions
+for empire which often obstruct the path to a crown, and agitate the first
+years of power in arbitrary governments, he at length secured the dominion
+of Persia with its hundred and twenty-seven provinces. To proclaim his
+undisputed possession, and to display his glory, he appointed a feast,
+which may perhaps be deemed unrivalled in the majesty of its circumstances
+and the length of its continuance. At the expiration of a hundred and
+fourscore days the king gave another entertainment of seven days, for "all
+the people that were present in Shushan the palace, both unto great and
+small." It was held in the court of the garden, for the purpose of
+accommodation, and with great magnificence. Vashti also, his royal
+consort, in conformity to the usages of the times, which, it must be
+admitted, were admirably calculated to preserve the purity of morals,
+prepared a separate entertainment for the women in another part of the
+palace. "Vashti feasted the women in her own apartment: not openly in the
+court of the garden, but in the <i>royal house</i>. Thus, while the king showed
+the <i>honour of his majesty</i>, she and her ladies showed <i>the honoux of
+their modesty</i>, which is truly the majesty of the fair sex." ... HENRY.</p>
+
+<p>Alas! how little did Ahasuerus comprehend wherein true riches and dignity
+consisted; and how little are these heathen "lovers of pleasure" to be
+envied by us, who are invited as welcome guests to a nobler table and a
+better banquet! "Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her
+seven pillars, she hath slain her oxen, she hath mingled her wine." Into
+the highways and hedges, into every quarter of the world, and amongst
+every class of mankind, the messengers of heaven are commissioned to go
+and call the poor as well as the rich, the peasant as well as the prince,
+to the "feast of fat things," which celestial mercy has provided in the
+Gospel, where admission is not exclusive, where indulgence cannot be
+construed into excess, where not a brutal appetite, but a mental and
+spiritual taste, is amply supplied. The princes of Persia congratulated
+themselves upon the favour of Ahasuerus; but how much greater reason have
+Christians to rejoice in the friendship of Christ! Now they are admitted
+to participate the blessings of his grace and the sacramental festival;
+hereafter they have substantial reasons to anticipate a diviner
+intercourse and a more exalted familiarity, when they shall drink new wine
+with him in his Father's kingdom.</p>
+
+<p>On the seventh day of the feast already mentioned, the king commanded the
+seven chamberlains of his household to wait upon Vashti, and bring her
+before him arrayed in the crown-royal. His heart is said to have been
+"merry with wine," or he would not have thought of indulging his own
+vanity, and insulting his queen's dignity, by such an exhibition. She
+ventured to refuse a compliance with this royal order, in which she was
+probably countenanced by the concurring opinion and feelings of the ladies
+who were present at the entertainment. As a woman she felt for the honour
+of her sex, and as a queen for her individual reputation and dignity. It
+was unquestionably a foolish command, contrary to the Persian customs, and
+dishonourable to the character of Ahasuerus as a sovereign and a husband.
+It is not by indulging pomp that the glory of a prince is best displayed,
+but by useful enactments, virtuous associations, and an upright uniformity
+of conduct.</p>
+
+<p>Unreasonable, however, as the demand of Ahasuerus was, Vashti ought not to
+have been so peremptory. In such an age, and under such a government, a
+moment's consideration must have excited in her an apprehension of danger.
+Besides, it was not the time for remonstrance. She was no private
+character; it was, therefore, an injudicious resistance of his authority.
+Obedience would have involved no guilt; but disobedience, even though the
+command were ridiculous, necessarily exposed her husband's authority to
+contempt. It must be admitted in Christian communities, that the Gospel
+requires submission on the part of a wife; nor is this requisition limited
+solely to those commands which the woman herself may deem just and proper,
+otherwise her own humour, caprice, or misconception, would perpetually
+infringe upon a positive law, and in fact, render it nugatory. On the
+other hand, if the husband would secure a cheerful obedience, and cherish,
+instead of spoil, an amiable temper, or regulate a peevish one, let his
+wishes be reasonable in themselves, and uttered without a look or a term
+expressive of an insolent consciousness of superiority.</p>
+
+<p>Ahasuerus instantly resented the refusal of Vashti. His passion became
+outrageous, sensible that his dignity was insulted and his authority
+questioned. He not only felt the uncomplying message of the queen as a
+sufficient mortification to his personal vanity, but as a public attack
+upon his influence and power as a king. It was not in a retired apartment,
+or on a private occasion, but, in a sense, before the eyes of a <i>hundred
+and twenty-seven provinces!</i></p>
+
+<p>Immediate recourse was had to his counsellors, who concurred in the
+opinion of Memucan, that it was a public question of great importance to
+the future welfare of the state, and affecting the domestic felicity, not
+of the king only, but of every family in the Persian empire. The advice he
+gave them, which Ahasuerus promptly followed, was to divorce Vashti, and
+interdict her forever from reappearing in the royal presence. "If it
+please the king, let there go a royal commandment from him, and let it be
+written among the laws of the Persians and the Medes, that it be not
+altered. That Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus: and let the king
+give her royal estate unto another that is better than she. And when the
+king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his
+empire (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands
+honour, both to great and small." It is not surprising that such a
+gratifying, but <i>unchristian</i> proposal, should be adopted by an arbitrary
+heathen monarch. Neither Memucan nor his royal master had drunk at the
+purifying fountain of evangelical truth.</p>
+
+<p>God was now making "the wrath of man to praise him." Human passions,
+prejudices, and errors were promoting divine designs. The feast, and the
+riot, and the vanity, and the rage of Ahasuerus, all concurred, though
+unconsciously on his part, to fulfil the mighty arrangements of
+Providence, and to introduce, a train of events which now march through
+the page of sacred history in rapid and wonderful succession.</p>
+
+<p>After the divorce of Vashti, the ministers of Ahasuerus advised him to
+adopt speedy measures to fill up the vacancy in his affections and his
+throne. Their plan exhibits the barbarity of the age and the sensuality of
+the king. He was to have his choice of all the "fair young virgins,"
+collected from the provinces of the empire: and it devolved upon Hadassah,
+or Esther, an orphan educated under the inspection of Mordecai, her cousin
+and guardian, one of the captive Jews at this period attached by some
+employment to the royal establishment. That God, who had bestowed upon
+this young Jewess unusual beauty, gave her favour in the eyes of the king,
+and secretly accomplished his own gracious purposes respecting his people
+by her advancement.</p>
+
+<p>
+Little did any of the persons immediately concerned in this affair imagine
+the predestined results. Ahasuerus was gratifying his passions; Esther and
+Mordecai conforming to an irresistible influence; Hegai, the keeper of the
+women, following the impulse of a secret admiration, and, perhaps, aiming
+to ingratiate himself in the favour of one whom he might suppose likely to
+become the future queen; while the Supreme Disposer was making use of all
+this variety of feeling and design as the means of securing the ends in
+his omniscient view.</p>
+
+<p>Esther retained her humility of spirit after her elevation of
+circumstances; for she "did the commandment of Mordecai like as when she
+was brought up with him." She was one of the very few that resist the
+allurements of splendour--that cherish kindness for their poorer
+relatives--and remember with gratitude the guardians of their youth.</p>
+
+<p>Mordecai, having detected a conspiracy against the king, mentioned it to
+Esther, who named it to her royal consort; by which means the traitors
+were soon brought to execution. This circumstance rendered the faithful
+Jew known to his sovereign. It was attended, indeed, by no immediate
+recompense; but he felt a satisfaction in having done his duty,
+incomparably more grateful to an unambitious mind.</p>
+
+<p>The danger to which the great king of Persia was exposed by the
+machinations of his domestics, shows the counterbalancing disadvantages
+which attach even to the most prosperous condition of human life; the
+conduct of Mordecai, on this occasion, teaches the allegiance we all owe
+both to our lawful king, and to the Sovereign of the universe; and the
+circumstances of the whole transaction, though for the present otherwise
+unnoticed, being "written in the book of the Chronicles before the king,"
+reminds us of the "Lamb's book of life," that faithful register of the
+pious services of his people, which, if not in this life, shall be fully
+requitted in another.</p>
+
+<p>Great princes often act capriciously, and advance to the highest stations
+those whose personal insignificance or baseness must otherwise have
+rendered them contemptible. Thus Ahasuerus promoted Haman, the Agagite, to
+the place of his prime minister; who received that homage from the
+multitude, which persons of rank and eminent station usually secure in all
+countries, but which is peculiarly exacted under arbitrary governments.
+The flattering incense of the king's servants was accepted by Haman as a
+fragrant offering, while his vanity feasted itself most luxuriously upon
+popular admiration.</p>
+
+<p>But, in proportion to a man's eagerness after honour, will be his
+sensibility to the slightest affront, and his readiness to interpret, in
+the worst sense, even unintentional neglect. It will not appear
+surprising to those who are acquainted with the heart of man, that this
+new favourite should have felt even more pain from the disrespect of one
+individual, than pleasure from the reverence of ten thousand others: and
+this, not because of any extraordinary importance which the dissentient
+had acquired, but simply on account of the extreme susceptibility to
+applause which the dignity and the pride of Haman had superinduced.
+Mordecai, in fact, refused to pay that homage to the prime minister which
+the king commanded; and he persisted in his refusal, notwithstanding the
+remonstrances of the king's servants, who "spake daily unto him." The
+known loyalty of Mordecai renders it certain that this determination did
+not proceed from any disesteem of the king; his character is an equal
+pledge that it did not originate in envy, or any ridiculous pique: it must
+have been a conscientious scruple, and the probability is, that the king
+required for his favourite a <i>religious</i> homage, similar to what the
+Persian monarchs were accustomed to claim for themselves. The minister
+was, besides, an Agagite, and therefore, probably, of the race of Amalek,
+a people against which Jehovah had proclaimed a perpetual and
+exterminating war. If these were his motives, he is rather to be extolled
+for his heroism, than censured for his temerity. A man of God should
+persevere in his duty at all hazards, unseduced by the flatteries, and
+unawed by the threats of mankind. He must contend against spiritual
+wickedness, oppose internal lust, and resist external temptation. He must
+brave alike caresses and sneers; the importunity of the timid, and the
+insistance of the powerful; so, however reproached by men, he will be
+honoured by God.</p>
+
+<p>The officers of the king, at length, resolved to inform his favourite of
+this determined omission to pay him reverence. Haman became incensed, and
+his rage burned with destructive violence. Having been told that Mordecai
+was a Jew, he instantly vowed to revenge his mortification, not only by
+punishing the individual, but by destroying the nation: and as the Persian
+monarchy, at this period, included Judea, had not Providence signally
+interposed, few if any could have escaped. How cruel is wrath, how
+outrageous anger! Thousands are devoted to death for an individual's
+conduct, who were utterly incapable of participating in it, and who had
+never even heard the name of their offending countryman! Supposed guilt
+and unquestioned innocence were doomed alike to perish in one
+indiscriminate massacre! O let us daily pray for that "wisdom which is
+from above, which is first pure, then <i>peaceable, gentle, and easy to be
+entreated, full of mercy</i>, and good fruits!"</p>
+
+<p>With a view of discovering the will of the gods, according to the common
+practice of Pagan antiquity, Haman ordered the lot to be cast, which was
+supposed to discriminate between lucky and unlucky days, little aware that
+"the whole <i>disposing</i> thereof is of the Lord."</p>
+
+<p>His address to the king was artful and insinuating. Instead of stating the
+real cause of his desire for the extermination of the Jews, he touches
+only upon what the principles of policy might seem to dictate; and induces
+Ahasuerus to accede to his sanguinary proposal, by lending him his ring to
+use at his own discretion. Thus the weakness of favouritism combines with
+the wickedness of pride, to destroy a people whose name was scarcely known
+to their prince, and whose crime was not even attempted to be proved by
+their malignant accuser.</p>
+
+<p>The decree was at length issued, and letters were despatched into every
+province of the empire, "to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all
+Jews both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon
+the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to
+take the spoil of them for a prey." After this inhuman proceeding, "the
+king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city Shushan was perplexed."</p>
+
+<p>It is an outrage upon public decency, which even modern times and
+civilized nations have unhappily witnessed, to see princes dissipating
+their days in festivity, and enfeebling their reason by excess, riot, and
+intoxication, when the calamitous circumstances of their country have
+demanded a serious investigation, a sympathizing regard, and a prompt
+relief; but still more lamentable is it to observe such conspirators
+against the lives of mankind as Haman and Ahasuerus, sitting down to
+indulge in merriment, while Persia was bathed in tears, and innumerable of
+her inhabitants written for execution. Was not one governor then to be
+found, to return an answer similar to that which the king of France, in a
+later age received, who had commanded the massacre of the Huguenots? "In
+my district," said one of his virtuous lieutenants, "your majesty has many
+brave soldiers, but no butchers!"--This was a people, however, ignorant as
+the haughty favourite of Ahasuerus was of the fact, that no human power
+could annihilate--a people under the immediate protection of the eternal
+God--a people respecting whom important prophecies were yet
+unaccomplished--a people of whom it is affirmed, Jehovah "kept him as the
+apple of his eye."</p>
+
+<p>Mordecai was no uninterested spectator of these transactions; but went
+about the city, and approached even to the king's gate, attired in
+sack-cloth, and uttering cries of grief and lamentation. Esther, who was
+no less accessary to sorrow in the palace than in the cottage, being
+informed of this circumstance, sent him a change of raiment, that she
+might enjoy a conversation to which he could not be introduced in the
+habiliments of mourning. Alas! though the <i>signs</i> of affliction may be
+interdicted, the unwelcome visitant herself will intrude even into the
+most splendid residences and most elevated conditions! Mordecai refused
+the dress, not out of disrespect to the queen, but to express his poignant
+anguish, and to incite her to deeper sympathy. Esther immediately
+despatched her attendant, one of the king's chamberlains, to inquire into
+the cause of his distress; and this faithful messenger soon hastens back
+to detail all the proceedings which had been adopted in reference to the
+Jews, with a request from Mordecai, that "she should go in unto the king,
+to make supplication unto him, and to make request before him for
+her people."</p>
+
+<p>This was a dangerous requisition. She, therefore, sent back her attendant
+to Mordecai, to remind him that it was a matter of universal notoriety,
+whoever, man or woman, should venture into the royal presence without
+being called, must suffer death, unless the "golden sceptre" were held out
+as an intimation of mercy; and that she questioned the probability of this
+in case of her intrusion, since her not having been sent for during thirty
+days past seemed to indicate some alienation.</p>
+
+<p>It must be confessed, there is less of the heroine and the martyr in this
+reply than we could wish to have witnessed; but, on the one hand, we may
+observe that a similar blemish disfigured the early conduct of Moses: and
+on the other, as some extenuation, that she does not <i>refuse</i> to comply
+with Mordecai's suggestion; but merely referred to the danger awaiting
+such a proceeding, in order perhaps to induce him, if possible, to
+contrive some safer and no less effectual expedient. The love of life is a
+principle of human nature implanted by our Creator for the purpose of
+self-preservation, a principle which, in ordinary cases, cannot be
+violated without guilt; and, on no occasion, can be dispensed with but
+from some imperious necessity. He who gave life, however, has a right to
+reclaim it; and that sacrifice which it would be a vice to make to our own
+passion, becomes a virtuous and pious offering when yielded to divine
+requirements.</p>
+
+<p>Mordecai sent another message to Esther, at once spirited, pointed, and
+effectual. It was a moment that demanded instantaneous action; and if the
+timorous queen cherished apprehensions on her own account, he showed her
+that she was even more likely to suffer by an ignominious retreat than a
+bold advance. He reminded her of her Jewish extraction, and the consequent
+danger to herself in the arrangement to exterminate all that hated race.
+For though the prime minister probably would not have lifted his hand
+against the queen; and though her connexion with his master, who married
+her from affection as great as we can imagine a sensual and despotic
+prince capable of cherishing, seemed to promise security; yet there could
+be no absolute dependence, and the favourite of to-day might be discarded
+to-morrow. He added to this other and weighty considerations--"If thou
+altogether boldest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement
+and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy
+father's house shall be destroyed; and who knoweth whether thou art come
+to the kingdom for such a time as this?"--<i>q.d</i>. 'Thy timidity may prevent
+thy becoming the means of rescuing the people of God; nevertheless, they
+shall assuredly escape--his resources are inexhaustible--his chosen
+nation shall not be annihilated--and he will not only perform the work
+without thy instrumentality, but inflict an awful but merited chastisement
+for thy misconduct. After all, I have better anticipations--perhaps thy
+wonderful advancement to the crown was intended by him who sometimes
+conceals his plans of mercy in clouds of mystery, for the very purpose of
+accomplishing the deliverance of Israel at this critical emergency.'</p>
+
+<p>Mordecai, in this appeal, shines as a "wise reprover;" and it was "upon an
+obedient ear." He is, moreover, illustrious as a man of <i>faith</i>. The
+confident tone he assumed did not arise merely from that solicitude he
+felt upon the subject, and which will sometimes inspire a boldness not
+commonly manifested; but from a knowledge of the prophecies, and a trust
+in the faithfulness of God respecting their fulfilment. The lyres of
+Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, celebrated in accordant strains the
+restoration of the Jews from captivity, and the advent of Messiah; and he
+was persuaded that infinite Wisdom could not be deceived, nor infinite
+power frustrated. O that in every minute affair of our lives, as well as
+with regard to every great event of time, we could cherish a similar faith
+in the providence of the "God of salvation!"</p>
+
+<p>Observe, in passing, that it is reasonable and just to expect services
+from us proportioned to the situations which we occupy. Favours involve
+obligations; and whatever influence, talent, or means of any kind we
+possess, ought to be conscientiously appropriated to the great Bestower.
+Every being in the universe has duties arising out of his condition by
+doing which he glorifies, and by omitting which he displeases, his
+Creator. Esther was, therefore, responsible for her actions as a queen, as
+a Jewess, and as one furnished with extraordinary opportunities at a
+crisis most singular and important, and the remonstrance of Mordecai
+proved irresistible. With what exultation must he have received this
+message from her--"Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in
+Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night
+or day. I also, and my maidens, will fast likewise: and so will I go in
+unto the king, which is not according to the law; and if I perish,
+I perish!"</p>
+
+<p>These devotional preparations for the experiment about to be hazarded,
+were not only highly proper in themselves, but expressive of the piety of
+Esther. Abstinence from food, an ancient practice of the church sanctioned
+by divine authority, is an evidence of humiliation before God; and at the
+same time, adapted to produce it, by inflicting a salutary mortification
+upon the corporeal appetites. If carried to excess, it will indeed hinder
+rather than promote piety; but when adopted on proper occasions, and
+observed with judicious regulations, it is attended with consequences
+manifestly beneficial. The queen did not impose a service on others which
+she was indisposed to practise herself; but sympathizing with the
+condition of her countrymen, she participated in their self-denying
+duties. Let us never forget the promise of eternal mercy, which has
+consoled the church of God in her deepest afflictions, and upon which
+every pilgrim in Zion may depend with unhesitating confidence, "Call upon
+me in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me."
+[<a href="#foot52">52</a>]</p>
+
+<p>When it is recollected, that the proceeding of Esther, in going in to the
+king uncalled, was a deliberate violation of a law of the state, and that
+Vashti had been discarded for an offence of far inferior consideration; we
+cannot but notice the overruling providence of God, in giving the queen
+acceptance in the eyes of Ahasuerus. On the third day she laid aside her
+mourning dress, and putting on her royal apparel, presented herself in the
+inner court of the palace, opposite the king's private apartment, where he
+sat upon his throne. What a moment of suspense and of secret agony! If
+previous devotion had not, in some measure, tranquillized the agitations
+of her bosom, and inspired a holy courage, it is scarcely conceivable how
+a woman could sustain the trial of such an hour. If the sharp conflict had
+smitten her to the ground, and she had expired upon the spot, we should
+not, religious considerations apart, have been greatly astonished; but
+hope in God, and a composure gained, no doubt, at the mercy-seat, and
+diffused over her spirit by recent intercourse with heaven, prepared her
+to hear the mandate of death, or receive the outstretched token of
+clemency. Her splendid attire--her attractive mien--her beautiful
+countenance, in which grief, anxiety, and devotion blending their
+influence, produced a new and interesting character, fixed the king's
+attention, and reinspired his love; but neither the one nor the other of
+these, nor all of them in the most happy combination, could have produced
+the effect, had not the tears, the prayers, the fastings of Israel and of
+Esther, brought down the blessings from above. How <i>important</i> are means!
+how <i>essential</i> is religion!</p>
+
+<p>Behold the golden sceptre! The queen trembles with rapture at the
+anticipated sign--it is held out--she approaches--touches--triumphs--and
+lives! "Let us come boldly unto the THRONE OF GRACE, that we may obtain
+mercy, and find grace to help in time of need!"</p>
+
+<p>Instead of rejection and death, Esther soon found herself treated with
+perfect familiarity, and more than usual kindness. Imagining that some
+important business had occasioned this visit, the king desired to know it,
+and promised to gratify the queen "to the half of the kingdom." She
+thought it prudent, however, at present, to waive the particular request
+she had to present, simply inviting Ahasuerus and his favourite to a
+banquet, by which mark of attention she hoped more effectually to confirm
+his reviving fondness, and thus secure the accomplishment of her ultimate
+purpose. Her invitation was accepted. He repaired with Haman to the
+festival, where, being highly delighted with the entertainment, he renewed
+his protestations in reference to whatever petition she might have to
+present. The wary queen ventured only to request a renewal of the royal
+visit on the morrow, at which time she assured him of a full explanation
+of her wishes.</p>
+
+<p>There is an appearance of undue timidity in this procrastination; and yet,
+if we were better informed of her secret motives, we might perhaps award
+her the praise of wisdom. The partiality of the king for Haman might
+render her doubtful of success in the contest with that favourite; and she
+might think it necessary to excite both the curiosity and the affection of
+the king still more, in order that he might not, through being startled at
+the magnitude of her demand, instantaneously refuse it. Extremes are
+dangerous. It would be well for us always to avoid both dilatoriness and
+precipitancy in our conduct; in order to which we should implore, with
+habitual fervency, the "wisdom from above."</p>
+
+<p>Whatever were the views of Esther, the designs of God were secretly
+maturing. Haman retired to his own house, full of mortification at the
+continued neglect of Mordecai, which disturbed him even when every
+external good seemed to concur in promoting his enjoyment. He called his
+friends together, expatiated upon all his possessions and glory, noticing
+with peculiar emphasis the favour of Esther in admitting him as the sole
+companion of his sovereign and queen at the day's festivity, to a
+repetition of which he had the honour of being invited on the morrow;
+"yet," he added, displaying at once the festering wound of his heart, "yet
+all this availeth nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at
+the king's gate."</p>
+
+<p>Never, surely, was a more complete exposure of the insufficiency of
+worldly glory to constitute happiness, and never a more impressive
+exhibition of the littleness of vanity. What an insignificant
+disappointment is sufficient to mar the comfort of him who depends upon
+creatures! The merest feather may be turned into a weapon of hostility,
+and destroy his peace; and whatever he may possess or acquire, he must
+necessarily he as remote from true felicity as at the first step of his
+pursuit, since something will always he wanting to <i>complete</i> his bliss,
+and the phantom of <i>ideal</i> good will continue to dance before his eyes.</p>
+
+<p>Zeresh, the wife of Haman, advised him to have a gallows made of fifty
+cubits in height, upon which he should instigate the king to hang
+Mordecai. To this advice, in which all his friends concurred, he listened,
+and gave immediate orders for the construction of this instrument
+of death.</p>
+
+<p>What is to be done--what can be <i>attempted</i> by Esther or by Mordecai, in
+this critical emergency? Neither of them were, indeed, aware of the
+murderous determination. The queen had delayed her petition till the
+succeeding day, at the intended banquet; but malevolence was hastening to
+frustrate her designs, without her knowledge, and previously to her
+intercession. Could she ever pardon herself for this delay, when Mordecai
+is suspended? Could she recall the past hours of festivity, in which so
+favourable an opportunity seemed to present itself for urging her
+supplication to the king?--</p>
+
+<p>"Stand still and see the salvation of God!" He who "sitteth upon the
+circle of the earth," is about to fulfil his own purposes, which no human
+projects can frustrate, and no apprehension of contingencies need hasten.
+"On that night could not the king sleep." But little did he know the true
+cause of this unusual wakefulness, or suspect that God was about to render
+it subservient to accomplish his divine intentions. "And he commanded to
+bring the book of records of the chronicles; and they were read before the
+king." But why did not a prince like this, addicted to pleasure, seek a
+diversion of his restlessness, by calling in the aid of music, rather than
+that of history? It seems more natural, that, he should wish for temporary
+amusement, rather than sold instruction. What more soothing than the
+"concord of sweet sounds?" True; but that Providence which kept him awake,
+influenced him to the choice of this extraordinary expedient. "And it was
+found written, that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the
+king's chamberlains, the keepers of the door, who sought to lay hand on
+the king Ahasuerus." But how came this particular circumstance in his
+personal history, to be selected on this occasion? The Persian records
+contained events of astonishing magnitude, and romantic interest. They
+told of mighty exploits, and splendid conquests!--Again we discern that
+divine superintendence, by which Ahasuerus was <i>led</i> to a circumstance
+of his own time, in which that very individual was named, whose life was
+now in imminent danger, and upon whom depends so many of the incidents of
+this story. The king inquired, whether the fidelity of Mordecai had been
+properly rewarded! To which his servants replied, "There is nothing done
+for him." The cares of empire are so multifarious and complicated, that we
+ought to make considerable allowances for those omissions in princes,
+which would be utterly inexcusable in others; yet it does appear
+surprising, that so signal a service as that which Mordecai had rendered
+in the discovery of a dangerous conspiracy against the throne, should have
+been totally unrequited. Happily for Christians, they serve a Master who
+cannot forget even "a cup of cold water, given in the name of a disciple"
+to one of his "little ones!"</p>
+
+<p>Early the ensuing morning, Haman hastened to the palace, for the purpose
+of obtaining the royal consent to his malignant preparations. Now he was
+about to rid himself at a stroke of the disdainful Jew that refused him
+homage; and anticipated the hour when he should witness his enemy on the
+gallows, so soon and so eagerly prepared! It was, indeed, a strange
+coincidence. Ahasuerus is as anxious to see his minister, as Haman to be
+introduced to the apartment of his king. Each has a great object in view,
+for which the other's concurrence is desired--each too is solicitous
+respecting the disposal of the same individual, and each ignorant of the
+other's wishes and projects.</p>
+
+<p>After the usual salutations, the king entreated, the opinion of his
+favourite minister with regard to the best mode of expressing his
+attachment to one whom he "delighted to honour." Haman concluded that his
+royal master, of course, alluded to <i>him</i>, since he well knew no other
+shared so largely in the royal confidence; and thinking to gratify the
+vanity of his little soul, he proposed that the favourite alluded to
+should be, for once, clothed in the royal apparel and crown, carried
+through the city upon the horse which was appropriated to the king,
+attended by one of the first princes of the empire, and have proclamation
+made before him, "Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king
+delighteth to honour." Approving of this mode of testifying the regard he
+wished to express, extraordinary as it was, Ahasuerus instantly commanded
+its punctual execution. "Make haste, and take the apparel and the horse,
+as thou hast said, and do even so to"--whom? to my favourite
+Haman?--No--insufferable mortification;--"to <i>Mordecai the Jew</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>Behold Haman again in his house, "mourning and having his head covered,
+and expatiating upon the misery of his situation." His wise men and his
+wife agree, that if Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, all his
+contrivances to ruin him would prove ineffectual; so fully aware were even
+the heathen of the peculiar interposition of Providence, in former times,
+on behalf of that scattered people.</p>
+
+<p>In the midst of their consultations, the king's chamberlain came to attend
+Haman to the banquet prepared by Esther. He goes--but rather like a man
+led to execution, than one invited to a festival. But he must conceal his
+chagrin, and assume the smile of gayety.</p>
+
+<p>Having partook of the feast, Ahasuerus requires of Esther the fulfilment
+of her promise, in the explanation of her wishes. He assures her with
+reiterated protestations, that her petition shall certainly be granted,
+"even to the half of the kingdom." How was he astonished, when she
+entreated for her own life, and that of her people! It had never entered
+into the mind of the king, that such a request was necessary. Is it
+possible that he hears aright? Ignorant that he had really prostituted,
+his authority to sanction the destruction of the queen as a Jewess, he
+looks at her and Haman with wild confusion, while she proceeds in a strain
+of firm, dignified, and eloquent statement: "For we are sold, I and my
+people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish; but if we had been
+sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy
+could not countervail the king's damage."</p>
+
+<p>Who can paint the terrors that gathered, at this moment in the countenance
+of Haman, or the indignant frown of Ahasuerus, when he thundered
+forth--"Who is he? and where is he that durst presume in his heart to do
+so? The hour of detection was come. Detestable conspirator, thou shall not
+escape! Truth shall, at length, come from her concealment, and wither at a
+touch thy unmerited and unenviable distinctions!" Esther said, "<i>The
+adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman</i>."--"The word was loath to come
+forth, but it strikes home at last. Never till now did Haman hear his true
+title. Before, some had styled him noble, others great; some magnificent,
+and some perhaps virtuous; only Esther gave him his own, 'wicked Haman.'
+Ill-deserving greatness doth in vain promise to itself a perpetuity of
+applause." Bp. Hall.</p>
+
+<p>Overwhelmed with astonishment and indignation, the king hastily withdrew
+from the banquet into the palace-garden: while the offender, who was too
+well acquainted with the countenance of his master not to perceive that
+"there was evil determined against him," writhing in all the agonies of
+despair, produced by a consciousness of guilt, and a dread of merited
+punishment, implored the queen to intercede for his safety. He who was
+profuse of the lives of others, with a consistency which is characteristic
+of villany and despotism cannot endure the thought of forfeiting his own,
+but betrays a cowardice proportioned to his recent insolence. The king
+returning at the moment in a state of the utmost exasperation, imputed the
+worst motives to his suppliant attitude, and allowed his servants to rush
+forward and cover Haman's face, as a person under sentence of death. The
+miserable criminal had, probably, many flatterers in the days of his
+greatness, but his adversity shows that he had no friends. Every one is
+eager to accelerate his destruction. Harbonah, especially, a chamberlain,
+proposed his being executed on the gallows of fifty cubits in height,
+which he had prepared for Mordecai; to which the king immediately
+assented. In this manner did Providence take the cunning persecutor in his
+own snare, and vindicate the cause of his oppressed people. Let the
+enemies of religion tremble, while the children of God are joyful in their
+King. The arrows which malignity shoots at the church of Christ shall
+either be broken against her walls, and fall pointless to the earth; or
+rebounding on the foe that ventures upon the attack, shall pierce his
+own heart.</p>
+
+<p>The advancement of Mordecai was the natural result of Haman's ruin. Esther
+having fully informed Ahasuerus of her relationship to the much-injured
+Jew and his nation, she was empowered to bestow upon him the house of the
+fallen minister. The Jews, however, were not yet exempted from the decree
+which the wickedness of Haman had inveigled the king to issue against
+them! so that Esther, not merely solicitous for her personal security or
+that of her friend and relative, ventured again before the king, "and fell
+down at his feet, and besought him with tears to put away the mischief of
+Haman the Agagite, and his device that he had devised against the Jews."
+The king renewed the testimony of his kindness, by stretching forth the
+golden sceptre; and the queen addressed him in these words, "If it please
+the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and the thing seem
+right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let it be written to
+reverse the letters devised by Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite,
+which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all the kings' provinces:
+for how can I endure to see the evil that shall come unto my people? or
+how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?"</p>
+
+<p>The king was ready to concede every thing it was in his power to grant:
+but as the laws of Persia were irreversible, and he could not rescind an
+edict already issued in his several provinces, he adopted the plan of
+putting his ring into the hands of Mordecai and Esther, to seal whatever
+decree they might think it right to frame in the present emergency.
+Accordingly, they gave unlimited permission to the Jews to defend
+themselves, which it was likely would so plainly evince the royal wishes
+to nullify his former edict, that few if any would indulge their malice
+against this people, or endanger their own lives by availing themselves of
+the first order. Many, however, did so; and even in the royal city five
+hundred men attacked them, probably some of the partisans of the late
+minister; but their temerity hurried them on to their own destruction. The
+ten sons of Haman, were also slain, and at the request of the queen, hung
+on the gallows.</p>
+
+<p>An annual festival, called <i>Purim</i>, [<a href="#foot53">53</a>] was established in commemoration
+of the deliverances we have recorded, which the Jews continue to observe
+at this day. It seems to have been appointed by Mordecai and Esther, as a
+civil, rather than a religious feast; unless it be supposed, that they
+received some special revelation to authorize such a measure. It is
+observed in the month <i>Adar</i>, which corresponds with our <i>February</i>
+and <i>March</i>.</p>
+
+<p>The interesting history we have been reviewing, is calculated not only to
+impress those general sentiments of Providence, to which we cannot too
+often recur, but to awaken in the minds of Christians a pleasing
+conviction of that minute inspection of their affairs, and that unremitted
+care for their welfare individually, which God exercises towards them. Is
+it possible to imagine a doctrine more elevating than this, or more
+calculated to produce sensations of reverence, gratitude, and joy? It is
+not presumptuous, even in a mortal "worm," to believe that his interests
+engage the attention of the INFINITE BEING; and that to promote them, the
+immense machinery of moral and natural means is put in motion--the animate
+and inanimate creation--mortal agents and spiritual beings--events great
+and small, past and present. <i>Worm</i> as thou art, still the central point
+in the vast circle of Providence! <i>Worm</i> as thou art, God has "graven thee
+upon the palms of his bands, and thou shalt never perish." <i>Worm</i> as
+thou art, but for thee "the brightness of the Father's glory" had not left
+his radiant sphere to become incarnate, to endure reproach and execration,
+and finally to be "brought as a lamb to the slaughter!" To hear <i>thy</i>
+supplications the King of heaven has erected a <i>throne of grace</i>--to
+vindicate <i>thy</i> character, to condemn <i>thy</i> foes, to perfect <i>thy</i>
+felicity, he is preparing, and will soon come to sit upon <i>a throne of
+judgment!</i></p>
+
+<p>Review past dispensations, and gather encouragement for present
+confidence! "If God be for us, who can be against us?" Did he not choose
+<i>Abraham</i>, and call him his "friend?" Did he not release <i>Joseph</i> from
+the pit, and raise him to princely glory? Did he not rescue <i>Moses</i> from
+the destructive waters, and constitute him the leader of his people
+Israel? Did he not deliver <i>David</i> from the lion and the bear, from the
+giant of Philistia, and the royal madman of Israel! Did he not feed
+<i>Elijah</i>--advance <i>Esther</i>--promote <i>Mordecai</i>--support <i>Job</i>--save
+<i>Jonah</i>--rescue <i>Peter</i>, and honour <i>Paul</i>? Has he not, in all ages,
+supplied the necessities of his saints--alleviated their
+sorrows--sweetened their bitter cup--turned death itself into life? Can he
+not extricate them from all difficulties--preserve them amidst ail
+temptations--render them invulnerable to all attacks--make them more than
+conquerors over external misery, internal pollution, and satanic
+malice?--Can he not eventually elevate them above the reach of all evil,
+the fear of death, and the possibility of falling? Can he not array them
+in the robe of light--adorn them with a crown of glory--make them "drink
+of the rivers of his pleasures"--associate them with holy angels, in a
+state of immaculate purity--stamp immortality on their blessedness, and
+"wipe away all tears from their eyes?"--HE CAN--HE WILL--"Our Father which
+art in heaven ...thine is the POWER and the GLORY, forever. Amen!"</p>
+
+
+
+<p align="center" class="smallcaps"><strong>End of Volume I.</strong></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>Footnotes</h2>
+
+
+
+<p><a name="foot1"></a>1. : Bates.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot2"></a>2. : Young's Centaur not fabulous, p. 61.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot3"></a>3. : Sir William Temple's Gardens of Epicurus. Horne's Discourses, vol. I.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot4"></a>4. : This subject is more fully illustrated in the Essay prefixed to the
+second volume of this work.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot5"></a>5. : Dr. Johnson.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot6"></a>6. : Paley's Moral Philosophy, vol. i. p. 316, 8vo.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot7"></a>7. : SAURIN, Discours historiques, critiques, theologiques, et moraux, sur
+les Evenemens le plus memorables du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament. Tom. I.
+p. 41-43. 8vo.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot8"></a>8. : The following quotation is illustrative of this circumstance: "At ten
+minutes after ten in the morning, we had in view (says Dr. Chandler)
+several fine bays, and a plain full of booths, with the Turcomans sitting
+by the doors, under sheds resembling porticos; or by shady trees,
+surrounded with flocks of goats." Harmer's Observations, vol. i. p. 132.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot9"></a>9. : Fleury's Manners of the ancient Israelites.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot10"></a>10. : Newton's Diss. on the Prophecies, vol. i. p. 34--36.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot11"></a>11. : The ancient authors, Tacitus, Pliny, Diodorus Siculus, and others,
+furnish abundant testimony in undesigned confirmation of the scriptural
+account. The following quotation is from Strabo: "There are many
+indications that fire has been over this country; for, about Massada, they
+show rough and scorched rocks and caverns, in many places eaten in; and
+the earth reduced to ashes, and drops of pitch distilling from the rocks
+and hot streams, offensive afar off, and habitations overthrown; which
+render credible some reports among the inhabitants, that there were
+formerly thirteen cities on that spot, the principal of which was Sodom,
+so extensive, as to be sixty furlongs in circumference, but that by
+earthquakes, and by an eruption of fire, and by hot and bituminous waters,
+it became a lake as it now is, the rocks were consumed, some of the cities
+were swallowed up, and others abandoned by those of the inhabitants who
+were able to escape." <i>Lib xii</i></p>
+
+<p>Tacitus states, that the traces of fire were visible in his time "At no
+great distance are those fields which, as it is said, were formerly
+fruitful, and covered with great cities, till they were consumed by
+lightning, the vestiges of which remain in the parched appearance of the
+country, which has lost its fertility." <i>Hist lib v</i></p>
+
+<p>A modern traveller, who was recently an eyewitness of the scene, is
+particularly entitled to be heard on this interesting subject, even at the
+risk of extending this note to a disproportionate length: "The Dead Sea
+below, upon our left, appealed so near to us, that we thought we could
+have rode thither in a very short space of time. Still nearer stood a
+mountain upon its western shore, resembling in its form the cone of
+Vesuvius, and having also a crater upon its top which was plainly
+discernible.</p>
+
+<p>"The distance, however, is much greater than it appears to be; the
+magnitude of the objects beheld in this fine prospect, causing them to
+appear less remote than they really are. The atmosphere was remarkably
+clear and serene; but we saw none of those clouds of smoke which, by some
+writers, are said to exhale from the surface of the Lake Asphaltites, nor
+from any neighbouring mountain. Every thing about it was, in the highest
+degree, grand and awful. Its desolate, although majestic features, are
+well suited to the tales related concerning it by the inhabitants of the
+country, who all speak of it with terror, seeming to shrink from the
+narrative of its deceitful allurements and deadly influence. 'Beautiful
+fruit,' say they, 'grows upon its shores, which is no sooner touched, than
+it becomes dust and bitter ashes.' In addition to its physical horrors,
+the region around is said to be more perilous, owing to the ferocious
+tribes wandering upon the shores of the lake, than any other part of the
+Holy Land." <i>Clarke's Travels</i>, part ii. sect. i. p. 614.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot12"></a>12. : The design of this work being rather practical than critical, the
+author conceives it generally proper to avoid subjects of doubtful
+disputation; and rather, in particular cases, to give the <i>result</i> of
+his inquiries, than to detail the process by which it had been obtained.
+On this account, he has forborne to introduce the different notions that
+have prevailed among the learned respecting the real nature of the
+punishment inflicted upon the wife of Lot, but has simply stated what is
+the most common, and, upon the whole, the most satisfactory opinion. It
+seems conformable to the words of the historian to suppose a <i>real
+conversion into a pillar of salt</i>, and not that Lot's wife was merely
+<i>smitten dead upon the spot</i>. If further information be wished, the
+reader is particularly referred to a French work of well-merited
+celebrity, and which contains on this and many subjects of Biblical
+criticism, much valuable and curious information--Saurin, Discours
+historiques, critiques, theologiques, et moraux, sur les Evenemens les
+plus memorables du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament. Tom, i.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot13"></a>13. : This appears to have been the ancient mode of concluding an
+agreement, or solemn covenant. Josephus says, that if two persons bound
+themselves mutually by an oath, they put their hand upon each other's
+thigh. Grotius states, that anciently they wore the sword upon the thigh,
+so that to swear by putting the hand upon the thigh, was intimating, "I am
+willing to be pierced through by this sword if I break my promise."</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot14"></a>14. : "Sir J. Chardin observed this difference in the East between wells of
+living water, and reservoirs of rain water; that these last have
+frequently, especially in the Indies, a flight of steps down into the
+water, that as the water diminishes, people may still take it up with
+their hands, whereas he hardly ever observed a well furnished with those
+steps through all the East. He concludes from this circumstance, that the
+place from whence Rebekah took up water was a reservoir of rain water.
+This is the account that he gives us in his sixth MS. volume, and it
+explains very clearly what is meant by Rebekah's <i>going down</i> to the
+well, Gen. xxiv. 16." HARMER'S Observations, vol. ii. p. 184, 185,
+<i>note</i>.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot15"></a>15. : HENRY in loc.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot16"></a>16. : "We do not find that their (the Israelites') marriages were attended
+with any religious ceremony, except the prayers of the father of the
+family and the standers by, to entreat the blessing of God: we have
+examples of it in the marriage of Rebekah with Isaac, of Ruth with Boaz,
+and of Sara with Tobias. We do not see that there were any sacrifices
+offered upon the occasion, or that they went to the temple, or sent for
+the priests; all was transacted betwixt the relations and friends, so that
+it was no move than a civil contract." <i>Fleury's Manners of the ancient
+Israelite</i>, Part ii. chap. 10.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot17"></a>17. : Most commentators attribute a higher principle to the partiality of
+Rebekah; they imagine that it was founded upon the prophecies, choosing
+him whom the Lord had chosen: but I can perceive no good reason for this
+opinion.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot18"></a>18. : "For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee
+out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and
+<i>Miriam</i>." Mic. vi. 4.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot19"></a>19. : Hieron, in Trad. Heb. ad 1 Kings 3. Calmet's Preface to Ruth, and Ch.
+iv. 22.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot20"></a>20. : Gray's Key to the Old Testament.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot21"></a>21. : Comp. HARMER'S Observations, vol. i. p. 78, 79.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot22"></a>22. : There is something inimitably beautiful in this ancient practice, and
+in language of their mutual address, which is preserved in the inspired
+narrative, "And behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the
+reapers, The Lord be with you. And they answered him, The Lord bless
+thee." Ch. ii. 4.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot23"></a>23. : Clarke's Travels, Part II, Sect, ii. p, 302.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot24"></a>24. : Comp. Harmer's Observations, p. 232-237.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot25"></a>25. : It has been thought probable, that from the expression "Is not the
+Lord gone out before thee?" some angelic messenger or visible appearance,
+similar to that of the Shekinah, prompted the words and animated the zeal
+of Deborah. The Targum favours this sentiment: "Is not the angel of the
+Lord gone out before thee to prosper thee?"</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot26"></a>26. : Lectures on the Sacred Poetry of the Hebrews.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot27"></a>27. : The historical reference appears to be to the narrative in the
+twentieth chapter of Numbers, in which the refusal of Edom to allow the
+children of Israel to go through their borders is recorded. Some
+extraordinary circumstances seem referred to, not mentioned in the sacred
+page, but possibly transmitted by tradition to the times of Deborah. Sen
+is a mountain of Idumea. The language is highly figurative, and denotes
+earthquakes and storms. "The mountains melted," that is, part of their
+surface was carried down, by the force of excessive torrents of rain.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot28"></a>28. : The ass derives its name from a Hebrew word signifying <i>redness</i>,
+the usual colour of this animal, but some are white. The word translated
+white is <i>zechorot</i>, and may, perhaps refer to the <i>zebra</i>, which the
+Ethiopians call <i>zechora</i>, and which is generally considered as one of the
+most beautiful of living creatures. It is sometimes called the wild ass.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot29"></a>29. : "Dr. Shaw mentions a beautiful rill in Barbary, which is received
+into a large basin, called <i>shrub we krub,</i> (drink and away,) there
+being great danger of meeting there with rogues and assassins. If such
+places are proper for the lurking of murderers in times of peace, they
+must be proper for the lying in ambush in times of war; a circumstance
+that Deborah takes notice of in her song, Judges v. 11." Harmer.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot30"></a>30. : <i>Gates</i> were anciently the places where they held their courts
+of judicature. In the towers there were very spacious and handsome
+state-rooms.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot31"></a>31. : The Vulgate reads, <i>in the country of Merom,</i> alluding to the
+place where Joshua fought a former king of Canaan. The waters of Merom are
+supposed to be the same as Kishon. Comp. Josh. xi. 5 Ps. lxxxiii 9.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot32"></a>32. : There is a remarkable alliteration here in the original Hebrew,
+[Hebrew: <i>middaharoth daharoth</i>.] Some have supposed it a poetical
+imitation of the sound of the trampling of horses, and compare this
+passage with the celebrated line of Virgil--"Quadrupedante putrem sonitu
+quatit ungula campum." VIRG. &AElig;n. viii. v. 595.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot33"></a>33. : Comp. HARMER'S Observations, volume i. pp. 216 and 445.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot34"></a>34. : It has often been inquired, on what principle this action of Jael,
+which is so apparently repugnant to the laws of honourable warfare, and
+even of common humanity, could be so eulogized by Deborah. The Kenites and
+the Canaanites were in alliance, and besides, the rights of hospitality
+have always been most scrupulously regarded, especially in the early ages
+of the world. To these considerations the ingenious Saurin replies, that
+in order to judge of this affair, it would be necessary to know the nature
+of the treaty between Heber and the Canaanites; because, according to
+Puffendorf, if two agreements cannot be performed, of which the one was
+made <i>with</i> and the other <i>without</i> an oath, the latter ought to
+yield to the former; and we cannot tell but this latter might be the
+nature of the agreement between the Kenites and the Canaanites. He
+conceives also, that a justification of Jael's conduct might be found in
+the character of Sisera, pleading that we are not required to keep good
+faith, or to show lenity to those execrable persons who only avail
+themselves of our regard to these virtues, to violate them in their
+conduct to others, to falsify their promises, and carry blood and carnage
+wherever they go. Under this impression, he prays that Providence may
+never raise up among us Jabins or Siseras; but if the justice of God
+should see fit to employ such scourges for our correction, that his mercy
+would send Jaels to effect our deliverance. Comp. SAURIN Discours
+Historiques, tom iii. <i>La defaite de Jabin et de Sizera</i>, p. 318-322.
+I confess this reasoning is not quite satisfactory; nor indeed will any
+reasoning upon this remarkable transaction be so, till we allow that there
+were circumstances which the Spirit of God has not seen fit to disclose,
+and that Jael most probably acted under the influence of some divine
+intimation. Long was it the revealed will of God that the Canaanites
+should be exterminated, and Israel had been criminally negligent of his
+commands. It must, doubtless, be admitted, that the general authority
+which they had received, independent even of any acts of oppression, was
+paramount to every other consideration, and sufficient to justify the most
+implacable hostility.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot35"></a>35. : Illustrations may be found in Saurin, "Discours Historiques,
+Critiques, Theologiques, et Moreaux, sur les Evenemens les plus memorables
+du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament." Tom. iv. p. 14-20, 8vo.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot36"></a>36. : The Septuagint rendering of David's message to Nabal explains the
+rapaciousness of the Arabs, and the forbearance of David. "Behold, I have
+heard that thy shepherds are now shearing for thee; they were with us in
+the wilderness, and we have not <i>hindered</i> them, &omicron;&upsilon;&chi;
+&alpha;&pi;&epsilon;&chi;&omega;&lambda;&upsilon;&sigma;&alpha;&mu;&epsilon;&nu;, nor have we <i>commanded</i> them &omicron;&upsilon;&chi; &epsilon;&nu;&epsilon;&tau;&epsilon;&iota;&lambda;&alpha;&mu;&epsilon;&theta;&alpha;,
+all the days of their being in Carmel." "This," says Harmer, "is
+translating like people perfectly well acquainted with the management of
+the Arab emirs, whose manners David, though he lived in the wilderness as
+they did, had not adopted. One of them at the head of six hundred men,
+would have <i>commanded,</i> from time to time, some provisions, or other
+present from Nabal's servants, for permitting them to feed in quiet; and
+would have driven them away from the watering-place upon any dislike. He
+had not done either." <i>Observations</i>, vol. i. p. 173.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot37"></a>37. : Young's Centaur, p. 119.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot38"></a>38. : JOSEPHUS, Book viii. ch. 5,</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot39"></a>39. : Voyage up the Red Sea, and Route through the Desarts of Thebais.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot40"></a>40. : Harmer's Observations, vol. iv. p. 192, 193.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot41"></a>41. : From the <i>Arabian Anthologia</i>, quoted by SCHULTENS.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot42"></a>42. : Shaw's Travels, p. 214-317, quoted in Harmer's Observations, vol. i.
+p. 251.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot43"></a>43. : Comp. Harmer's Observations, vol. ii. p. 503.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot44"></a>44. : Plutarch's Life of Pyrrhus.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot45"></a>45. : Epitaph in Bunhill Fields burying-ground on a child that died at the
+age of nine months. The writer of these pages knows not the author, or
+whether these lines have ever appeared in any other place than on the
+stone whence he has transcribed them.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot46"></a>46. : HARMER'S Observations, vol. i. p 4.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot47"></a>47. : The first day of the month was kept with burnt-offerings and
+peace-offerings. Vide Numb. x. 10. and xxviii. 11. In imitation of the
+Jews, the calends, or first days of the month, and the fourth and seventh
+of the week, were sacred to Deity.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot48"></a>48. : PASCAL'S Thoughts, pp. 229, 244.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot49"></a>49. : See The Life of Philip Melancthon, by the author of this work, p.
+225, second edition.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot50"></a>50. : "The salutations of the East often take up a long time. The manner of
+salutation as now practised by the people of Egypt, is not less ancient.
+The ordinary way of saluting people, when at a distance, is bringing the
+hand down to the knees, and then carrying it to the stomach; marking their
+devotedness to a person, by holding down the hand; as they do their
+affection, by their after raising it up to the heart. When they come close
+together afterward, they take each other by the hand, in token of
+friendship. What is very pleasant, is to see the country-people
+reciprocally clapping each other's hands very smartly, twenty or thirty
+times together, in meeting, without saying any thing more than <i>Salamant
+aiche halcom?</i> that is to say, <i>How do you do? I wish you good
+health</i>. If this form of complimenting must be acknowledged to be
+simple, it must be admitted to be very affectionate. Perhaps it marks out
+a better disposition of heart than all the studied phrases which are in
+use among us, and which politeness almost always makes use of at the
+expense of sincerity. After this first compliment, many other friendly
+questions are asked about the health of the family, mentioning each of the
+children distinctly, whose names they know," &amp;c. MAILLET, Descript. de
+l'Egypte.</p>
+
+<p>"If the forms of salutation among the ancient Jewish peasants took up as
+much time as those of the modern Egyptians that belong to that rank of
+life, it is no wonder the prophet commanded his servant to abstain from
+saluting those he might meet with, when sent to recover the child of the
+Shunammitess to life. They that have attributed this order to haste, have
+done right; but they ought to have shown the tediousness of Eastern
+compliments." HARMER'S Observations, vol. ii. pp. 331, 332.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot51"></a>51. : BISHOP HALL.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot52"></a>52. : Ps. I. 15. The thirteenth and fourteenth chapters of the apocryphal
+book of Esther contain appropriate prayers for this occasion, attributed
+to Mordecai and Esther, well worthy of perusal.</p>
+
+<p><a name="foot53"></a>53. : In the Persian language <i>Pur</i> signifies a <i>lot</i>; and the
+reference is to Haman's casting lots to ascertain the lucky month for the
+execution of his iniquitous project against the Jews.</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Female Scripture Biographies, Vol. I, by 
+Francis Augustus Cox
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FEMALE SCRIPTURE BIOS, VOL 1 ***
+
+***** This file should be named 9782-h.htm or 9782-h.zip *****
+This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
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+</pre>
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+</body>
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author	Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org>	2025-10-15 05:33:43 -0700
committer	Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org>	2025-10-15 05:33:43 -0700
commit	d5e4ea6262d7e984b9c3030fb3e220cd3105bccc (patch)
tree	53443edae1198e4c47e5afdcf21b1e4e4dc0cb4a /9782-h