There were more sacred solemnities in the seventh month than in any other. It was the space
between harvest and seed-time. The more leisure we have from the pressing occupations of this
life, the more time we should spend in the immediate service of God. The blowing of the trumpets
was appointed, Le 22:24. Here they are directed what sacrifices to offer on that day. Those who
would know the mind of God in the Scriptures, must compare one part with another. The latter
discoveries of Divine light explain what was dark, and supply what was wanting, in the former,
that the man of God may be perfect.
Verses 12–40
Soon after the day of atonement, the day in which men were to afflict their souls, followed the
feast of Tabernacles, in which they were to rejoice before the Lord. Their days of rejoicing were
to be days of sacrifices. A disposition to be cheerful does us good, when it encourages our hearts
in the duties of God's service. All the days of dwelling in booths they must offer sacrifices; while
we are here in a tabernacle state, it is our interest, as well as our duty, constantly to keep up
communion with God. The sacrifices for each of the seven days are appointed. Every day there
must be a sin-offering, as in the other feasts. Our burnt-offerings of praise cannot be accepted of
God, unless we have an interest in the great sacrifice which Christ offered, when he made himself
a Sin-offering for us. And no extraordinary services should put aside stated devotions. Every thing
here reminds us of our sinfulness. The life that we live in the flesh must be by the faith of the Son
of God; until we go to be with him, to behold his glory, and praise his mercy, who hath loved us
and washed us from our sins in his own blood. To whom be honour and glory for ever. Amen.
Chapter 30
Chapter Outline
Vows to be kept. (1, 2)
The cases wherein vows might be released. (3–16)Verses 1, 2
No man can be bound by his own promise to do what he is already, by the Divine precept,
forbidden to do. In other matters the command is, that he shall not break his words, through he may
change his mind.
Verses 3–16
Two cases of vows are determined. The case of a daughter in her father's house. When her vow
comes to his knowledge, it is in his power either to confirm it or do it away. The law is plain in the
case of a wife. If her husband allows her vow, though only by silence, it stands. If he disallows it,
her obligation to her husband takes place of it; for to him she ought to be in subjection, as unto the