And they gave him threescore and ten [pieces] of silver out of the house of Baalberith, wherewith Abimelech hired vain and light persons, which followed him.
Ver. 4. And they gave him threescore and ten pieces.] Pounds, saith the Vulgate: but more likely, shekels: which though it were a small sum, yet we must know that a little money would go a great way in those days; as also that such soldiers might be hired for small wages, &c.
Hired vain and light persons.] Beggarly rascals, fit for his purpose, debauched desperadoes.