John Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 28:23

A historical reference excerpt for this verse. Read it alongside the biblical text and other available sources.

Exposition of the Old and New Testament
John Gill (1697–1771) · 18th-century historical commentary
Source: BibleWord.ai's local reference edition of this named work.

But he refused, and said, I will not eat, etc.] Choosing rather to die with famine than by the sword of the Philistines; though perhaps his meaning is, he could not eat, his stomach loathed it, being overwhelmed with grief and trouble: but his servants, together with the woman, compelled him; not by force, but by arguments; they reasoned with him, and prevailed upon him to try to eat: and he hearkened unto their voice; and agreed to eat, if he could; so he arose from the earth; on which he lay at his full length: and sat upon the bed; or couch, it being now the custom to recline on couches at caring; though some deny that this custom obtained so early.

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