Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the flocks? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart.
Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds? х hamishpªtayim (H4942), folds, enclosures for sheep, open above, often made of hurdles, in which, during the summer months, the flocks are kept by night (cf. Genesis 49:4).] The Hebrews seem to have used the dual form on account of folds of this kind being divided into two parts for the accommodation of different kinds of flocks (Gesenius). The statement is reiterated as it were with an ill-suppressed sneer of scorn and pity, that upon the banks of their mountain streams the members of the tribe of Reuben cherished strong aspirations for liberty, and formed high resolves to hasten to the aid of their oppressed brethren. But with a characteristic instability (Genesis 49:4) they were satisfied with having resolved, and did not carry their resolutions into action.