Empty, i.e. without a present; which they judged necessary, from the common opinion and practice both of Jews and Gentiles. Return him a trespass-offering; thereby to acknowledge our offence, and obtain his pardon. It shall be known to you; you shall understand what is hitherto doubtful, whether he was the author of these calamities, and why they continued so long upon you. Compare 1 Samuel 6:7-9.
Related Commentaries of 1 Samuel 6:3
1 Samuel 6:3
3 And they said, If ye send away the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty; but in any wise return him a trespass offering: then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand is not removed from you.