they that handle the law. The law therefore well known, and the priests known as the custodians of it. Reference to Pentateuch (Leviticus 10:11.Deuteronomy 17:11; Deuteronomy 33:10).
pastors. shepherds. Used of kings and other leaders of the People. Compare Jeremiah 17:16; Jeremiah 23:1-8.
transgressed. revolted. Hebrew. pasha'. App-44.
do not profit. Figure of speech Tapeinosis, for emphasis. lead to ruin.