The whole body of guards relieved on the Sabbath are to guard the Temple and the young prince.
(7) And two parts of all you... sabbath. — Rather, and the two branches among you, all that go out on the Sabbath. The two “branches” means the two fundamental divisions — viz., Carians (or executioners) and Couriers. The troops relieved on the Sabbath were not to be posted in three companies at three different points, like those who came on duty in their place; but they were to form in two ranks — Carians on one side and Couriers on the other — for the purpose of guarding the Temple, and especially the king’s person.
About. — Literally, in the direction of — i.e., with regard to, over. “The house of the Lord” is obviously contrasted with “the king’s house” (2 Kings 11:5).
(8) Ye shall compass the king round about. — They were to form two lines, between which the king might walk safely from the Temple to the palace.
The ranges. — Rather, the ranks — scil., the two lines of the guard formed for the protection of the king. If any one attempted to force his way through the ranks in order to attack the king he was to be slain.
Be ye with the king... cometh in. — When he leaves the Temple, and when he enters the palace.