Son of man, they that inhabit those wastes of the land of Israel speak, saying, Abraham was one, and he inherited the land: but we [are] many; the land is given us for inheritance.
Ver. 24. They that inhabit those wastes of the land of lsrael.] Those poor few now left in the land. 2 Kings 25:12 ; 2 Kings 25:22 Jer 40:5-6 Surely they are poor, they are foolish, they have lost the fruit of their affliction; Miserrimi facti sunt et pessimi permanent, as Augustine saith of some in his time, They are nevertheless wicked for being wretched.
Speak.] Bubbles of words. Antiquum obtinent. They are no changelings, not at all crest fallen.
Abraham was one.] a And no such one but that we may match him. Thus these proud hypocrites hit up their counter for a thousand pounds, and stand upon their comparisons without all shame or sense.
The land is given to us.] And here we will hold our own, for we are well worthy.
a Verba faecis populi recitat. Abrahae se conferre, imo praeferre audebant.