And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them [from] before the gate [even] unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water.
Ver. 5. And the men of Ai smote of them.] Not in fight, but in flight; for they stood not out the first shock.
“ A cane non magno saepe tenetur aper. ”
Even unto Shebarim,] i.e., A place of breakings or shiverings: this made them "sick at heart," according to Amos 6:6. See Trapp on " Amo 6:6 "
Wherefore the hearts of the people melted.] They were not more discomfited than discouraged: because they saw that God was displeased, and for the time departed. A little water in a leaden vessel is very heavy: so is a small affliction from an offended Father. "Be not thou a terror to me," saith Jeremiah, Jer 17:17 and then I care not greatly what befalleth me.