rose up to flee. Jonah knew that Assyria was to be God's sword of judgment against Israel. If Nineveh perished, Israel might be saved. God's mercy might arrest this overthrow of Nineveh. Was this why Jonah would sacrifice himself to save his nation? This would explain his flight here, and his displeasure, as clearly stated in Jonah 4:1-3. When he said (Jonah 1:12), "Take me up", &c., he had counted the cost. He confesses to the men (verses: Jonah 1:9; Jonah 1:10), but not to God. He gave his life to save his People. The type of Christ may have begun here. See Galatians 1:3; Galatians 1:13. and compare Romans 9:1-3.
Tarshish. See note on 1 Kings 10:22.
from the presence of the Lord. Reference to Pentateuch (Genesis 4:16). App-92.
Joppa. Now Jaffa. Compare Joshua 19:46; 2 Chronicles 2:16; Acts 9:36.
ship. Pleb. 'aniyah. any large merchant ship. Not the same word as in Jonah 1:5.
he paid the fare: and counted the cost of his flight. See notes on the Structure, p. 1247.