And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array at the entering in of the gate: and the Syrians of Zoba, and of Rehob, and Ishtob, and Maacah, [were] by themselves in the field.
Ver. 8. At the entering in of the gate,] viz., Of Medeba; 1 Chronicles 19:7 ; 1Ch 19:9 for that bush they thought good to keep on their backs, however the day should happen; and that stake to have still in store, however the dice chanced to turn. But how wretchedly reckless was Pompey, who never considered into what place he should retire if beaten by Julius Caesar, as he was at the Pharsalian field.
Were by themselves in the field.] As not fit to be trusted near the town, being such a multitude of mercenaries, and, in reference to David, who had lately subdued them, a rabble of rebels.