The history of the Old and New Testament extracted out of sacred Scripture and writings of the fathers : to which are added the lives, travels and sufferings of the apostles : with a large and exact historical chronology of all the affairs and actions related in the Bible : the whole illustrated with two hundred thirty four sculptures, and three maps, delineated and engraved by good artists / translated from the Sieur De Royaumont, by several hands ; supervised and recommended by Dr. Horneck, and other orthodox divines.

An Historical CHRONOLOGY, according to the Seven Periods of the World, used in History.

CHAP. I. The Division of the Ages of the World.

THose that are not willing to take the trouble upon them, which a tho∣rough inquiry into Antiquity re∣quires, nor care to employ their Studies in the profoundest researches of Chronology, but content themselves with a general view of things, may be pleased to take notice, That as the Week is divided into 7 days, so all the time from the Creation of the World to this day, is divided into 7 Periods or Ages. The first Period begins at the Creation, and ends at the Deluge, and contains 1656 Years, 1 Month, and 26 Days. The 2d Period begins at the ceasing of the Deluge, that is to say, from the year 1657, and ends at the Call of Abraham; which was in the year 2083, and contains 426 Years, 4 Months, and 18 Days. The 3d Period, begins at the Call of Abraham, and ends at the deliverance of the Israelites, from their Egyptain bond∣age, which was in the year 2517, and con∣tains 430 years. The 4th Period begins at the Children of Israel's coming out of Egypt, and ends at the Founding of Solomon's Temple,

which was in the year 2992, and contains 479 years and 1•• days. The 5th Period begins at the Founding of the Temple, and ends at the Jewish Captivity, which was in the year 3468, Cyrus then giving them leave to Return; and this Age, or Period, contains 476 years. The 6th Period begins at Cyrus his permitting the Jews to Return, and ends at the Birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, which was in the year 4000, and so contains 532 years. The 7th Period, begins at the Birth of our Saviour, and is to end with the Expiration of the World.

CHAP. II. The first Period, or Age of the World.

NOw to come to a particular Account of every one of these Ages; in the first place, we have the first Age deciphred to us by this ensuing Table, which comprehends all that the Scrip∣ture mentions of the Original of the World, of the Creation of our first Parents, and of the Birth and Death of the ancient Patriarchs.

The Table of the First Age of the World.

	Born in the year of the World.	Begot Children in the year of his Life.	Liv'd after he had begot Children.	Lived in all	Died in the year of the World.	Lived together.
1. Adam	1	130	800	930	930	Adam with	Seth with	Enos with	Cainam with	Malaleel with	Jared with	Enoch with	Methusala with	Lamech with
2. Seth	130	105	807	912	104••	800
3. Enos	235	90	815	905	1140	965	807
4. Cainam	325	70	840	910	123••	605	717	815
5. Malal••••l	395	65	830	895	1290	535	647	745	840
6. Jared.	460	162	800	962	142••	470	582	680	775	830
7. Enoch.	622	65	300	365	987	308	365	365	365	365	365
8. Methusala	687	187	782	969	1656	243	355	453	748	603	735	300
9. Lamech	874	182	595	777	165••	56	••68	266	361	416	548	113	777
10. Noah	1056	500	450	950	2006			84	179	234	366		600	59••

Anno Mundi, This Table makes all things very clear; by which we see the Age of the Ten first Patriarchs, the time in which they were Born, the time wherein they began to have Children, how many years they lived afterwards, and what Age they were of when they died. The Scripture hath exactly mark∣ed out all these Circumstances; and from thence it is that we have taken whatsoever is here set down; from thence it is that we know the Deluge hapned in the year of the World 1656, being it hapned in the 600th year of Noah who was Born in the 1056th year of the World. But as to the particular Transactions in this Period, or Age of the World, it will be convenient to make a farther Enlargement.

We shall not here say any thing touching the Journal of the first Week, and History of the Creation, it being treated of in the begin∣ning of the Old Testament, to wit, the six days Work; we suppose that the common Year of the Jews, which began with the Month of Tisri, with the Equinox of Autumn,

was also that of the Patriarchs, and of the Creation. So that in the sixth day of this first Month, which partly answers to our Septem∣ber, and partly to October, Adam and Eve, were created after the Image of GOD, in the Eve of the first Sabbath, which is our Fri∣day; GOD having blessed and sanctified the following, to be the Day of his Rest. 8 days after (according to the most common Opi∣nion) they sinned against GOD, and were driven out of Para••ice, tho' comforted by the Evangelical Promise, That the Seed of the Woman should bruise the Serpents Head, Gen. Chap. 1, 2, 3.

Cain was born in the first Year of the World; Abel in the second, each with their Female to be their Wives; 'tis said Cain's was called Calmanna, and Abel's, Delbora: These irregular and incestuous Marriages, as now accounted, were not so then, as be∣ing in the first spring of Nature; GOD also designing of one Blood to make all Mankind, and derive it from the same Foun∣tain, Acts 17.26. 'Tis not to be doubted, but since the Birth of these two, to that of Seth, Eve had more Children, of each Sex, and in this first fruitfulness of Nature, more than one at a time; Whence arose Cain's fear after his Parricide, Gen. 4.14.

Abel and Cain being now grown up, apply themselves, the first to feeding Cattel, the latter to the cultivating the Earth; and worshiping according (without doubt) to the Orders which their Father had recei∣ved from GOD: They offer different Sacri∣fices, according to their different Functions; but GOD having given a particular Appro∣bation to the Sacrifice and Piety of Abel, by Fire, or otherwise, Cain conceived thereat, so great a Grudge, that he resolved to kill him. GOD reprehends him for this unjust malevolency, remembring him of the Supe∣riority he had over his Brother, by Birth∣right, and that Abel acknowledging it, as he did, ought not to be the Object of his Hatred. Yet he persists in this wicked humor, draws his Brother apart (under pretence of Kindness) and privately Murthers him. GOD calls him to account for it, condemns him to be punish'd, and yet provides for the se∣curity of his Life; he retires into the Coun∣try of Nod, there begets a Son named Henoc, and builds a City (to which he gives the same Name) by the assistance, (without ques∣tion) of the rest of his Brethren, of their Families, and his own, Gen. 4.1, 2, &c. This Fratricid hapned about the Year of the World 130, in which Seth was born, whom GOD substituted to our first Parents, in the place of Abel, Gen. 4.25. Josephus pretends, that Seth erected two different Columns, the one of Brick, the other of Stone, on which he wrote Astronomical Observations, to be pre∣served to Posterity. 'Tis certain, that Seth apply'd himself to Piety, and all manner of Vertues, otherwise than the Men of his time; and that Moses having said little of the cursed Race of Cain, Gen. 4.5. sets on a particular deduction of the Descendents of Seth; it being from him that all Men, since the Flood, draw their Original.

Of Seth, Aged 105 Years, and who lived moreover 807, was born Enos, in the Year of the World 235, under whom those who made with Seth a Profession of Piety, as the Chil∣dren of GOD, began to separate themselves from the profane Canaanites, to attend his pure service, Gen 4.26. & 5.6.7.

Of Enos, Aged 90 Years, was born Kenan, Anno Mundi 325, of Kenan Aged 70, Mahaleel in the Year 395, and of him Aged 65, Jared in the Year 460. Gen. 5.9, &c.

About this time the profane Lamec of the Race of Cain, signaliz'd himself in im∣piety; being the first that brought Bigamy in mode, contrary to the order, and institu∣tion of holy Marriage, by which two were to become one flesh, Matth. 19.4, 5, 6. and shew'd himself to his 2 Wives, Hada and Tsilla to be a bloody and violent Spirited man. Of Hada were born Jabal, who invent∣ed the use of Tents for Shepherds, and Jubal, who was the first Inventer of Musical Instru∣ments. Of Tsilla was born Tubalcain, who was the first Smith, and his Sister Nahama, who is thought to have invented the Art of Spinning and Weaving, Gen 4.19, &c. Not that these 4 have been the first Inventers of these Arts, seeing Cain and Abel, for their different Professions, had learnt of Adam some use of Tents, Knives, Cisars, Spades, &c. but they may be properly said to have polish∣ed and bettered what they had received of that kind. Those who think Idolatry began soon in the World, do here search the rise of it, pretending that Tubalcain, whom Pa∣ganism made its Vulcan, as her Venus of Nahama, did forge Images; that Jabal built up Tabernacles for them, that Jubal serv'd them with his Organs, and other Mu∣sick;

and Nahama adorn'd and cloathed them with her Woollen and Linnen.

In Anno Mundi 622 of Jared, Aged 162 years, was born the Patriarch Enoch, a Man of exemplary Piety, the 7th after Adam, and en∣lightned with Prophetical knowledge, Jude, v. 14. Tho the Book heretofore published un∣der his Name (stuft with divers Errors) is a fictitious story.

Of Enoch, Aged 65 years, was born Anno Mundi 687, Methusalem (who lived the longest of all Men, to wit, 969 years) 235 years after his Birth, his Father Enoch in the 300 years of his Life, (during which time he con∣stantly attended the LORD) was carried up into Heaven, that he might not see death, Gen. 5.24. Hebr. 11.5. After the Death of Adam, Anno Mundi 930, the taking up of Enoch in the year 987, and the decease of Seth. In the year 1042 Corruption slipt in amongst those who made a more particular profession of the Fear and Service of GOD, by the Marriages they contracted with the Canaanites and others; whence came those fierce and impious Giants, Gen. 6.1, 2, 4. which has furnish'd Paganism with those Relations of Gigantomachia.

To Methusalem (aged 187 years, in the year 874, which was 113 years before the Translation of Enoch, and of Lamech, aged 182 years) was born Noah, in Anno Mundi 1056, and who was thus named by his Father, as expecting something great and salutary from him, Gen. 5.29. and in effect, tho he were not the Messias, who promises and gives Life and Rest to our Souls, he was however the Type and Figure of him.

Under Noah the Herald, or Preacher of Righteousness, 2 Pet. 2.5. Corruption came to its perfection, and GOD began to denounce to Men the resolution of destroying them; yet allowing them the term of 220 years to Repent, Gen. 6.3. Noah, aged 500 years, and 100 before the Flood, began to have his three Sons, Gen. 5.32. and 6.10. Japhet was the eldest, Gen. 10.24. who was born in the year 1556, or 1557. Shem, the second, born in the year 1558; and Cham, the youngest, Gen. 9.24. one or two years after; for in that the Genealogy of Shem is recited the last, Gen. 10.20. and 11.10. is not because he was the last amongst these 3, as when he is sometimes named the first, doth not prove he was the eldest; but because to his Family, was restrain'd the Promise of the Messias, and that from him was born Abraham, of whom (and his Posterity) Moses undertook the Hi∣story, and not of the other two. About the time of the Birth of Noah's 3 Children, he was commanded by GOD to build the Ark, to preserve in his Family the Seeds of Human kind, with all the several species of Animals, which GOD would cause to come there, whereby to replenish the Earth after the Deluge, Gen. 6.13, &c. During the Life of Noah, his Father Lamech died, aged 874 years, and in the year of the World 1651, which was 5 years before the Flood; and Methusalem his Grandfather, aged 969 years, in Anno 1655, being at the end of the year, or at the beginning of 1656, which was about a Month before the Deluge began. Noah then in the 600 year of his Life, the 100 of Japhet, 98 of Shem, 97 of Cham, and the World 1656, entered into the Ark with his Wife, his 3 Sons and their Wives, being but 8 Persons, 1 Pet. 3.20. in the 2d Month of the year partly answering our October, and partly our November, the 17th day of the Month, in which the Deluge began, which increased for 40 days, Gen. 7.11, 12, 17, &c. It's not to be doubted, but that this Deluge was universal (Moses having affirmed it in express terms) and drown'd all Living Creatures, Gen. 7.19, 20, 21, &c. And because that if any place of the Earth was to have been exempted, GOD perhaps would have sent Noah and his Family thither, together with the rest of the Living Creatures, which he designed to spare, without condemning them to so long and incommodious a Prison in the Ark, during one whole year.

The Deluge lasted a year and 10 days; it increas'd, and continued in its highest de∣gree 150 days, Gen. 5.24. at the end of which the Waters began to decrease; so that on the 17th of the 7th Month, answering partly to our March, and partly to our April, the Ark rested on the Mountain of Ararat in Armenia: On the 1st day of the 10th Month of the year, the tops of the highest Moun∣tains began to discover themselves; 40 days after Noah sent out a Raven, and then a Dove 7 days after, to see whether the Earth dried, without being certainly informed; but 7 days after the Dove returned with an Olive-Leaf, whereby the Patriarch knew that the Waters abated; and being sent out the third time (7 days after) he returned no more. Then on the first day of the year 1657, with which

began the year 601 of Noah, the Earth was wholly dried; whereupon the Patriarch took off the Cover from the Ark, and thus pro∣bably let go the Fowls; but he waited for the Divine Appointment to go out himself; which he received, and obeyed the 27th day of the 2d Month; and as soon as ever he set foot on the Earth, he built an Altar, and offered his Sacrifice to the LORD, who pro∣mis'd him, there should be no more such a Flood; and establish'd the Bow, that is, the Rain∣bow in the Heaven for his infallible Seal there∣of, Gen. 8.1, &c. and 9.11, 12.

CHAP. III. Of the Second Period, or Age of the World.

WE have already observed, that the Second Age of the World begins at the end of the Deluge, and at the Call of Abraham; that is to say, it begins in the year of the World 1657, and ends in the year 2083, thereby containing in all 426 years. This following Table declares the number of Years contained in the succession of the o∣ther ten Patriarchs; who followed those of the first Age, and how many years they lived one after another.

The Table of the Second Period, or Age of the World.

	Born in the year of the World	Begot Children in the year of his Life.	Liv'd after he had begot Children	Lived in all	Died in the year of the World	Noah with	Shem with	Arphaxad with	Sale with	Heber with	Phaleg with	Rehu with	Sarug with	Nachor with	Phare with
1. Shem	1558	100	500	600	2158	448
2. Arphaxad	1658	35	303	338	1996	348	500
3. Sale	1693	30	403	433	2126	313	465	303
4. Heber	1723	34	430	464	2187	273	435	273	403
5. Phaleg	1757	30	209	239	1999	249	401	239	369	430
6. Rehu	1787	32	207	239	2026	219	371	209	339	400	209
7. Sarug	1819	30	200	230	2049	187	339	177	307	368	177	207
8. Nachor	1849	29	119	148	1997	157	309	147	277	348	147	177	200
9. Thare	1878	130	75	205	2083	128	280	118	248	309	118	248	171	119
10. Abraham	2008						150		118	179		18	41		75
Abraham came into the Land of Canaan, aged 75 years.	Year of the World 208••.

All appears very clear in this Table: We find in the 4 first of these Patriarchs, that the years of the life of Man, were at that time become half in half shorter than before, and that the 6 following Patriarchs were yet shorter Liv'd by half than the 4 pre∣ceding. Moreover the following Table will shew us, how long they lived one with ano∣ther. But before we proceed to the 3d Period, we shall make a further enlargement on this.

Anno Mundi 1657, Noah having began a new Epoche by Prayer and Sacrifices; and received new Orders and Promises, applies himself to Agriculture, dresses the Vine; is inebriated with his Fruit; is derided by Cham and Canaan, his youngest Son and Grandson; and in fine, dies Aged 950 years, being 350 years after the Deluge, Gen. 9.20, &c. Seeing the Families of his 3 Sons to multiply exceedingly, he divided to them the Earth, which also they distinctly Peopled by their Posterity: To Japhet he gave Europe; to

Shem, Asia, and to Cham, Africa; which may be gathered from what Moses recites, Gen. 10.1. &c. But to say something parti∣cularly of the Family of Shem, at the Age of an 100 years, being 2 years afters the Flood, Arphaxad was born to him in the year 1658, if we take these 2 years after the Deluge begun, or 1659, if we take them after the Deluge was over. Shem survived 500 years the Birth of his Eldest Son, and died aged 600 years.

Arphaxad begets Selah at the age of 35 years, and died in the year 438 of his life: Between Arphaxad and Selah, several reckon Cainaan as Son of the first, and Father of the second, Luke 3.36. But the most able Chro∣nologists acknowledge, That Cainaan without and against the Authority of the Original Hebrew Text, has been first inserted in the Greek Text of the Old Testament, by some Transcriber, and from thence into several Copies of S. Luke's Gospel; for all of them have it not. Selah at 30 years old begets He∣ber (from whose Name several think the He∣brew Tongue is so called, as being conserv'd in his Family after the confusion of Babel) and died aged 433 years. Of Heber, aged 34 years, was born Peleg; after which, he lived more than 430 years, Gen. 11.10, &c. Peleg was thus named, because that in his time the Earth was portioned out, Gen. 10.25. either for that his Birth in the year of the World 1757, being 100 yeas after the Flood, falls into the time of the confusion of Languages; or that his Father Prophetically imposed on him this Name, because this should happen in his time, tho at the end of his days; or whether we are to believe a double division of the Earth, the first by a bare project, which was fairly carried on under the direction of Noah, be∣tween the 3 Brethren; in pursuit of which, to enlarge and extend themselves, they came from Armenia, to encamp in the Land of Shinar: The 2d effective, which has necessarily fol∣lowed the Confusion of Languages. 'Tis cer∣tain that under Peleg, and during his Life, was first undertaken the Enterprize of the Tower of Babel, which GOD overthrew by the Confusion of Languages, Gen. 11.1, 2, 3, &c. 2d, Nimrod the Son of Chus, and Cham's Grandson, who perhaps was the first Author of this haughty design, began by Babel, and other places built in the Country of Shinar; that is, Chaldea; the establishment of his Tyranny, Gen. 10.8, 9, 10. 3d, Departing out of Chaldea, to enlarge it, he past into the Country where Assur (who was apparently the 2d or 3d Son of Shem, tho Helam, and he is mentioned before Arphaxad, Gen. 10.24.) had brought his Colony, and there built Nineveth after the Name of his Son Ninus: And more∣over other Cities, as so many Forts or Cittadels of his Dominion, Gen. 10.11, 12.

Of Peleg, aged 30 years was born Rehu; of him (aged 32) Serug, and of him (at the age of 30) Nachor, and of Nachor (at 29 years) Thares, who was the Father of Abraham, Gen. 11.18, &c. Now from the ending of the Flood to the Birth of Phaleg, there is 100 years; and from the Birth of Phaleg to that of Thares 121, that being in the year of the World, 1757, and this in the year 1878. 'Tis said (Gen. 11.27.) that Thares at the age of 79 years begat Abraham, Nachor, and Haran. Now as 'tis certain they were not all born at a time; so 'tis apparent from Scripture, that Haran was the eldest, Nachor the 2d, called by his Grand∣fathers Name, and Abraham the 3d, altho he be called the first, as well on account of the Reputation of his Person, as for that he was the Root of the People of GOD, and the Fa∣ther of the Faithful.

Haran died in Chaldea. Gen. 11.28. leaving 1 Son, to wit Lot, and 2 Daughters of which Milcah was married to her Uncle Nachor, Gen. 11.29. and Grandfather to Rebecca, Isaac's Wife, Gen. 24.47. As to Abraham, he was younger by 59 or 60 years, than his eldest Brother; he was Born in the 130th year of Thares, in the year of the World 1808, and 75 years before the Death of his Father: For Abraham was aged 75 years when he went out of Haran, to come into Canaan, Gen. 12.4. and not having left Haran till after the death of Thares, Acts 7.4. who had lived 205 years, Gen. 11.32. he must be born in the 130th year of his Father; and thus the Birth of Abraham terminates it self in 2008.

Abraham then lived with Thares his Father 75 years, seeing that Thares died in the year 2083; with Serug 41, seeing he died in the year 2049; with Rehu 18, seeing he died in Anno 2026; with Heber, who died in the year 2187, 179; 121 with Selah, who died in the year 2129; with Arphaxad, who died in the year 2096, 88; with Shem 150, seeing he died in the year 2158; but not with Noah, who died aged 950 years, 2 years before the Birth of Abraham, seeing he departed this Life in the year of the World 2006. We

shall not take much Notice here of what the Jews have asserted, touching Serug, that he was a Painter; and of Thares, that he was a Statuary, and employed himself in making of Idols; and concerning Abraham, that ha∣ving been condemn'd to be burnt alive in the Fire which the Chaldeans worshipped, for re∣proving them of their Idolatry, he was mi∣raculously delivered thence. But, tis certain, Thares went out of Ur of the Chaldeans with Abraham, Sarah, and Lot, Gen. 11.31. by rea∣son of the Idolatry committed there, and the Persecution they underwent; and in obedience to the Call, which GOD had given Abraham, who probably perswaded his Father to obey, and follow it, Gen. 12.1. and 15.7. and Acts 7.2. they came into Mesopotamia to Haran, where Nachor came and found them. This Sojourning in Haran lasted with Abraham for 5 years; for Thares being dead at the end of this term, Abraham (who was already on his March to come into the Land which GOD would shew him) departed by his order to come into Canaan, aged 75 years, Gen. 12.

CHAP. IV. Of the Third Age, or Period of the World.

IT hath been already declared, that this Third Age of the World began at the Call of Abraham, in the year of the World 2083, and ended at the Children of Israel's going out of Egypt, which was 430 years after.

The following Table declares a great part of what hapned most considerable in that time.

The Table of the Third Period, or Age of the World.

	Years of the World	Since the Deluge	Since Abraham's departure	Before the Israelites coming out of Egypt	Before the Birth of Christ
Abraham came into Canaan, Thares being dead	2083	427	0	430	1921
Ishmael born in the year of Abraham's Age 86.	2094	438	11	419	1910
Isaac born in the year of Abraham's Age 100.	2108	452	25	405	1896
Isaac wean'd at 5 years old, and Ishmael turned out,	2113	457	30	400	1891
Isaac takes Rebecca to Wife in the 40th year of his Age,	2148	492	65	369	1856
Jacob born in the 60th year of Isaac's Age,	2168	512	85	345	1836
Abraham dies being 175 years old▪ 15 years after Jacob's Birth,	2183	527	100	330	1821
Ishmael dies in the 137th year of his Age,	2231	575	148	282	1773
Jacob flies to Laban at 77 years old, and serves 20 years,	2245	589	162	268	1759
He marries Leah, and afterwards Rachel, at 84 years old,	2252	596	169	261	1752
Levi born of Leah,	2255	599	172	258	1749
Joseph born of Rachel,	2259	603	176	254	1745
Jacob returns to his Father after 20 years Service with Laban,	2265	609	182	248	1739
Joseph sold at 16 years old, and serves Potiphar,	2276	620	193	237	1728
Isaac dies 12 years after the selling of Joseph	2288	632	205	225	1716
Joseph is presented to Pharaoh at 30 years of Age,	2289	633	206	224	1715
Jacob goes into Egypt at 97 years of Age,	2298	642	215	215	1706
Jacob dies at 147 years old, having been in Egypt 17 years,	2315	659	238	198	1688
Joseph dies after he had Ruled in Egypt 80 years,	2369	713	286	144	1635
Levi dies	2392	736	309	121	1612
Aaron born,	2430	774	347	83	1574
Moses born,	2433	777	350	80	1571
He flies to Jethro, and serves 40 years,	2473	817	390	40	1531
The Israelites going out of Egypt,	2513	857	430	0	1491

All that which is taken notice of in this Table is taken from the Scripture it self, and consequently admits of no doubt; only this reflection is to be made upon all the forgo∣ing Tables, that as Adam lived 56 years with Lamech, Lamech 93 years with Sem, Sem 50 with Isaac, and Isaac 33 with Levi, who was the Father or Grandfather of Moses, his Mother named Jacobed, whom for cer∣tain he had seen. It is apparent that Moses wrote nothing which was not in the memo∣ry of Man, since he was not above 4 or 5 Generations from Adam. Isaac likewise lived in their time, that had known those Persons that saw the Deluge, which conse∣quently he could not be ignorant of, no more than what past at the Creation could be unknown at the time of the Deluge, since there were People then living, who had seen those that knew Adam himself. So Adam could not be unknown to Noah, and Sem, nor they to Abraham or Jacob, nor Jacob to Moses, especially at a time when there were no Histories which men could make use of, or have recourse unto. We shall make a further enlargement on this Age or Period of the World, which is as fol∣loweth.

In the 70th year of Abraham, and of the World 2078, he began his Travels, which continued for the space of 105 years, which was to the end of his life, Gen. 25.7. And from the vocation of the Patriarch, and the beginning of his Travels, till the depar∣ture of the Israelites out of Egypt, are found the 430 years mentioned, Exod. 12.40. Ga∣latians 3.17. of which the first 215 are for Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and the other 215 for the abode and servitude of their Posterity in Egypt: Yet here is found some disagree∣ment between the most exact Chronologists; for some begin the 430 years only at the year 75, and others at the year 85 of the Patriarch; but we are for keeping to what best agrees with the Text of Scripture, begin∣ning from the Birth of Isaac, in the year 160 of his Father, and the 400 spoken of, Gen. 15.13. Acts 7.6.

Abram being entred into Canaan, past on as far as Sichem, and the Plain of Morea, and pitched his Tents after the manner of the Nomades in the Fields, which perhaps then not belonged to any one, the Country being not much peopled; and from thence he sets forth towards the East of Bethel. Here in his first Post GOD appeared to him, and pro∣mis'd the Country to his Posterity, where he erected an Altar, and worshipped, Gen. 12.6, 7, 8. But as he advanced towards the South, the Famine makes him descend into Egypt, whence he departs, extreamly obliged by the King, who designed to espouse his Wife (which by a Criminal weakness is said to be his Sister) but he was divinely hindred from it, 12.10, &c.

Abram and Lot departing from Charan, travelled for some time together; but by the disagreement of their Servants, they peaceably parted, the Unkle giving his choice to his Nephew; perhaps, as representing his elder Brother, the Nephew retiring towards Sodom, and the Unkle sojourning between Bethel and Hai; where the LORD, appeared to him again, and encourages him by fresh Promises; whence he sets forth to the Plains of Mamre, where he erects an Altar, and makes some stay, Gen. 13.1, 2, &c. Whilst he abides here, several very considerable things happen to him. A War arose between 4 Kings on one side, viz. Amraphel of Cal∣dea, Arjoc of Susiana, Kedorlaomer of Persia, and Tidhal of Nations; and 5 others on the other side, viz. Berah of Sodom, Birsah of Gomorrha, Seinab of Adma, Scemeber of Tseboim, and him of Tsohar. These were all little Kings, and perhaps Satrapes, that is, as it were Governours of Provinces, under the great Monarchy of Assyria. These ••ast had served 12 years to K••dorlaomer, in paying him some Tribute; but in the 13th year they revolted. He gets to him 3 others▪ and having joyn'd their Forces together, they drive all before them, and obtain great Victories: The Revolters take the Field with all their strength, but are beaten and put to flight, abandoning their Towns to the will of the Conquerors, who there get great booty, and bring Lot along with all his sub∣stance. Abram receiving the News of this, arms 318 of his Servants, and accompanied with Mamre, Escol, and Haner, which were Ammorreens, and his Allies, pursues these Pillagers, defeats them, and recovers his Ne∣phew, with all the Booty, and returns Victo∣rious.

Melchisedec, King of Salem, who was also a Priest of the true GOD, who came before him with Bread and Wine, for the refresh∣ment of his Men, and to congratulate him for his happy success, and as in quality of a

Priest, blest him, and received from him the Tenths of the Spoils taken from the Enemy. The King of Sodom offered him all the Booty recovered, asking of him only the Persons brought back; but he generously refused it, contenting himself that his 3 Allies should take their part, Gen. 14.1, &c. This was the success of the first, and most ancient War re∣cited in Scripture, after which GOD renewed to the Patriach his great Promises, and con∣firmed them by Federal Victims, determining to him the time in which his Posterity should be Strangers in the World, and opprest by Servitude, and the People which they were to dispossess, to obtain the Country, Gen. 15.1, 2, &c.

Sarah his Wife, impatient at her being barren, gives him Hagar her Servant, to be (as she speaks) edified from her Knees; she finding her self pregnant, triumph'd over her Mistress, who obliges her to fly; but the Angel of the LORD orders her to return, and according as he had told her, she was delivered of Ishmael, who was born to the Patriarch in the 60th year of his departure from Caldea, &c. as mentioned in the fore∣going Fable, Gen. 16.1, &c. being Anno Mundi 2094. 13 years after GOD changed his Name of Abram to Abraham, and that of his Wife Sarai into Sarah, enjoyns him to Circumcise himself, and all that belonged to him, and promises, That of Sarah should be born a Son whom he should call Isaac, Gen. 17.1, 2, &c. In the same year Sarah, aged 90 years, became pregnant, according to the assurances which GOD had lately given them both. Sodom, and the neigh∣bouring Towns (conformably to what the LORD had declared to the Patriarch,) are destroyed by Fire and Brimstone, which GOD caused to rain from Heaven, and their whole Territory changed into the Lake of Asphal∣tites. Lot is warned thence, having testified an utter dislike of the impudent attempts of the Men of Sodom, who would abuse his Guests (who were Angels in the shape of Men) offering them his Daughters to satisfie their Lusts, rather than to suffer the Laws of Hospitality to be violated; but those to whom he had betrothed his Daughters, re∣fused to follow him. His Wife looking be∣hind her out of trouble for the Goods she had left, is changed into a Pillar of Salt. He incestuously pollutes himself with his two Daughters, who make him drunk, and are delivered in their time, the one of Moab, and the other of Benhammi, the Fathers re∣spectively of the Moabites and Ammonites, Gen. Chap. 18, & 19. But Abraham gets far off this horrid and dismal Neighbour∣hood, and retires towards the South into Land of Gerar; Abimelech being King thereof, takes Sarah from him, who he said was his Sister; but he is warned from GOD, not to meddle with her, and made to restore her to her Husband, which he does with many Presents, Gen. 20.1, 2, &c. In fine, According to the Promises of GOD, Isaac was born in the hundredth year of his Fa∣thers age, being 30 years after his depar∣ture from Caldea, Anno Mundi 2108. The Child is Circumcised on the 8th day, grows up, but is derided, and ill treated by Ishmael; which Sarah being not able to bear, his Mo∣ther and he are put out of the House, and without the assistance of an Angel, being in danger of perishing with Thirst, in the Desart of Beershebah; but notwithstanding this dis∣grace, he becomes great, espouses an Egyp∣tian Woman, brought to him by his Mother, and sets up his abode in the Desart of Paran, Gen. 21.1, 2, &c. About this time, Abimelech King of Gerar, attended with Picol, General of his Troops, treats a League which Abra∣ham, for them and their Posterity; and restores to him the Wells of Beershebah, where he plants an Oak, there to perform Divine Rites, Gen. 21.22, 23, &c.

To all these Prosperities of the Patriarch, succeeds a great proof, by the command of sacrificing Isaac on the Mount of Moriah, where he signaliz'd his Faith and Obedience; and being hindred to execute it, at the very point of slaying him, he returns home exceed∣ingly comforted; where he hears good News of Nachors Family, his Brother, being multi∣plyed in Mesopotamia, Gen. 22.1, 2, &c.

From Beershebah, where he made a conside∣rable stay, he returned towards Hebron, where Sarah died, Aged 127 years, being 37 years after the birth of Isaac, in the 137th year of Abraham, and of the World 2145. And her Husband buys of Hephron a Cave of Macpela for her Burial, Gen. 23.1, 2, &c. This Pur∣chase made by Abraham is well joyn'd, Acts 7.16. with that which Jacob made since near Sichem, Gen. 33.10. Joshua 24.32.

Three years after the death of Sarah, Isaac, aged 40 years, espoused Rebecca, Labans Sister, the Daughter of Bethuel, whom his

Fathers Servant went to fetch in Mesopotamia, Gen. Chap. 24. & 25.20. Abraham having married his Son according to his desire, takes himself a 2d Wife, named Keturah, of whom he had several Children, who being sent to∣wards the East, by their Fathers order, grew up in a small time, and were the Fathers of several People, Gen. 25.21, &c.

Isaac, 20 years after his Marriage, in the 60th year of his age, and the 160th of that of his Father, becomes by Rebecca, the Fa∣ther of two Twins, Jacob and Esau, who struggling in their Mothers Womb (their quar∣rel being elder than their Birth) obliged him to consult on this Accident the Mouth of the LORD, whether by Abraham himself, or Melchisedec, or by some one of the Pa∣triarchs, who were then alive, (as Sem and Heber) and obtained for Answer, That 2 People were in her Womb, and that the greatest would serve the lesser; as a presage of which, when they were born, Jacob, who was the 2d, took hold of the Heel of the first, who was Esau, Gen. 25.21, &c. Abraham having seen his Sons, two Twins, aged 15 years, he Departed this Life aged 175 years, Anno Mundi 2183, and was honourably buried by Isaac and Ishmael, Gen. 25.6, &c. Isaac being sometime after prest by Famine, had orders not to go into Egypt, but to retire to Gerar; Rebecca was not so old, but that Isaac might well say, she was his Sister, lest he should lose his Life on her account; but Abimelech (this being the common Name of the Kings of Gerar, as it seems of Picol, was that of their Generals) having observed thro the Window, that Isaac behaved him∣self towards Rebecca with greater freedom than is lawful with a Sister, thereby he knew she was his Wife; reprehending him for using this disguisement, strictly prohibited all his People, to offer him or her any abuse; yet at length, being jealous of his Pro••pe∣rity, he made the Wells to be stopt, which Abraham had digg'd, and entreating him to depart out of his Country, he retreats much lower, caused the Wells to be cleansed, which the Philistins had stopt up since Abraham's departure; sees some Contest to arise on this occasion, between his Herdsmen and those of Gerar, and goes up unto Beershebah. There the LORD appeared unto him, and assured him of his Favour; he there erects an Altar for his Service, where Abimelech comes, and treats an Alliance with him, according to the terms of that which his Predecessor had made with Abraham, Gen. 26.1, &c. Whilst these things hapned, Jacob and Esau became men, but of a very different humour; for Esau apply'd himself to Hunting, spending his whole time in the Woods and Forests; whereas Jacob led a sedentary and studious life. Esau returning from Hunting, being very hungry, and finding his Brother seething Broth, he was so desirous of it, that he made over his Birthright to him, that he might satiate himself therewith, Gen. 25.27, &c. This was the first act of his Prophaneness; to which he added a second, viz. the taking at 40 years of Age, (which was the time wherein his Fa∣ther was Married) 2 Heathen Women for his Wives, Judith the Daughter of Beeri, and Basmath the Daughter of Elon, which was a great grief to his Father and Mother, Gen. 26.34, 35. This was in Anno 2208. Yet these 2 Twins divided in some sort the Affections of their Parents; for Isaac, who loved Venison, with which Esau often presented him, had more love for him; but Rebecca, who it seems had in this particular a better understanding, was more inclin'd to Jacob; so that Isaac being become old, and so weak-sighted, that he could no longer distinguish People; ('tis thought he was about 137; Anno 1242; 13 years before died his Brother Ishmael, having left 12 Sons, who possest and peopled all Arabia, Gen. 25.12.) he desired to give his Blessing to Esau before he died, whereupon he declares to him his intention, and sends him to hunt for some Venison for him. Rebecca, who was hearkning at what past, immediately makes ready a Kid, and dresses it according to her Husbands relish like▪ Veni∣son, wraps the Neck and Hands of Jacob with the Skin of the Kid, that in touching him he might take him for Esau, who was an hairy Man; and obliges Jacob in this dress to pre∣sent the Dish to his Father under the name of Esau, and to obtain the Blessing, which accordingly succeeded: For Esau being re∣turned a while after from Hunting, found out the Deceit, weeps for vexation, designs to kill Jacob as soon as his Father was dead. Re∣becca, as well to prevent this Misfortune, as to hinder Jacob from marrying, as Esau had done; she perswades Isaac to let him go into Mesopotamia, to Laban his Unkle, to seek there a Wife, Gen. 27.1, &c. and 28.1, &c. After that Isaac had dispatch'd him for this Voyage, with his repeated Blessing, Esau

seeing that his Heathen Wives displeased his Father and Mother, went towards Ishmael, that is, towards his Family; for he was already dead, to espouse one of his Daughters, nam'd Mahaleth, Gen. 28.6, 7, 8, 9. She is called Basmath, and his 2 other Wives are named Ada the Daughter of Elon, and Ahilobama the Daughter of Hava, Gen. 36.2, 3. it being likely the other had 2 Names, or rather, that being dead without Children, Esau sub∣stituted to them these 2 other Canaanites; having had a particular Affection for her, who was called Basmath, he gave the Name to Ishmael's Daughter, after he had taken her to Wife.

The Blessing of Jacob, and his Voyage to Laban, being coincident with the year 147 of his Father Isaac's Life, must be the 77th of his own, and the year of the World 2245. In the Way, GOD appeared to him in a Dream by a mysterious Ladder, to assure him of his Protection in his Travels, both for∣wards, and in his return, Gen. 28.11, &c. Being arrived near Haren, he addresses him∣self to Laban, familiarizes himself with Ra∣chel, is favourably received by his Uncle, in whose service he engages himself for 7 years, on condition of espousing his youngest Daugh∣ter; but the time being come, he has Leah put upon him, and 7 years more Service is exacted of him for Rachel the younger; so that in 7 days time he espouses them both, he himself being at 84 years of age, Anno Mundi 2252. His Father-in-Law gives each of his Daughters a Servant, Zilpa to Leah, and Bilha to Rachel, who by order and con∣sent of their Mistresses, strove who should have most Children, and served the Patriarch as Concubines. And from these 4 Women (in Mesopotamia) he had 11 Sons, and 1 Daugh∣ter, Gen. 29.30, &c. and 31.1, &c. Here is near the order of their Birth; Reuben the eldest of Leah, was born in the 8th year of his Fathers service, Simeon in the 9th, Levi in the 10th, and Judah in the 11th. Rachel seeing this her Sisters Fruitfulness, was vexed with Envy, and by Bilha her Servant obtains Dan in the 12th year, and in the year after Nephthali. Leah imitates her Sister, and by Zilpah her Servant she obtains Gad in the 12th year, and Ashur in the 13th, having also during the pregnancy of her Servant, obtain'd of her Sister Rachel, by her Sons Mandrakes, that their common▪ Husband should lie that night with her, and he begat of her Zabulon, who was born in the 14th year; and a while after in the same year Joseph, of Rachel; but Dinah, his only Daugh∣ter was born of Leah, after the 14 years accomplish'd, and in the 15th year of his abode with Laban; so that Joseph began probably the 7th year of his Life, and Dinah the 6th, when he parted thence. For besides the 14 years Service given to Laban for his Daughters, he suffered himself still to be retained under certain Conditions, which were not observed, Gen. 30.31, &c. And therefore at the end of 20 years, and by GOD's express Command, he leaves him without bidding him adieu, with his Wives, Children, and Cattel. Rachel secretly seizes on her Fathers Tutelar Gods, who being informed of Jacob's Retreat, hastily pursues him, and overtakes him in the Mountain of Gilead; but he is di∣vinely hindered from offending him, and parts good Friends, Gen. 31.1, &c.

Jacob being thus got clear of Laban, almost at the entrance of Canaan, Anno Mundi 2265, and in the 97th year of his life, sends to advertize his Brother Esau of his Return, who comes to meet him with 400 Men, of whom he is afraid. He prepares him a great present, and causing it to pass with all his Family before him, remains alone on this side the Brook Jabbok, and wrestles all Night with GOD, who blesses him, and changes his name of Jacob into that of Israel. The next Morning these 2 Brethren meet, and Fraternally embrace, and so part, Gen. Chap. 32. & 33.

Esau, who is Edom, retires to the Mount of Seir, to which he was much addicted of a long time, as is seen Gen. 33.16, & 36.1, &c. and where Moses gives a long List of his Descendents; but Jacob marching small Jour∣neys takes his Post at Succoth, on this side Jordan, where he built a House, and set up Tents for his Cattel; and 'tis thought his abode here lasted a year and an half; from thence he passes over Jordan, an encamps near Sichem, where he purchases an Inheri∣tance, and erects an Altar to the honour of GOD, Gen. 33.17, 18, 19, 20.

The Jews imagin his abode there was 8 years and an half; but the last year was very grievous to him, by reason that his Daughter Dinah, aged 15 or 16 years, was ravish'd and violated by Sichem, who endea∣vours to make her amends after this Affront, by demanding her in Marriage. But Jacob's

Children deceive the Sichemites, by obliging them to be Circumcised; which these having admitted, Simeon and Levi, Brother-Germans of Dinah, enter into the Town with Swords in their hands (and these poor People in the midst of their Dolours, being unable to defend themselves) kill all the Males of them, and carry away much Booty; at which Jacob is greatly troubled, Gen. 34.1, &c. and 49.5, 6, 7. This Violence so cruelly exercis'd, obliged him to depart from thence, and GOD (who assisted him) orders him to draw towards Bethel, where he had heretofore appeared to him, and there to remain. Before he set on his Journey he reforms his Family, purging it of all Idolatrous Images, which he burns at the Foot of an Oak near Sichem, Gen. 35.1, &c.

Anno Mundi 2275. At Bethel died Debo∣rah, Nurse to his Mother Rebeccah, whether he had brought her from Mesopotamia with him, or whether she was sent thither to call him thence, or whether from Isaac, after Rebecca's death, she went in search of him to Sichem, Gen. 35.8. But in parting from Bethel, to come to his Father Isaac, who dwelt near Hebron, his dear Rachel, being big with Child the second time, was delivered in the way of Ephrat, or Bethlehem, of her second Son Benjamin, and died, Gen. 35.16, &c. From thence he advances further towards Migdal-Heder, which was between Bethlehem and Hebron, where his Father resided; and there Reuben committed Incest with Bilha his Mo∣ther-in-Law, Gen. 35.21, 22. and 49.3. As he made but small Journies, by reason of his great Train, so was his stay in every place very short; but at length he arrives in Hebron, where Isaac was, and this was his last Journy in the Land of Canaan.

Joseph was born to Jacob in the 14th year of his service, and the 91st of his life; for Joseph was 30 years old when he appeared before Pharaoh, Gen. 41.46. and 7 years of Plenty, and 2 of Famine were already past, since the time that Jacob came into Egypt, aged 130 years, Gen. 47.9. which makes up our reckoning; so that Joseph being 17 years old, when he began to be hated by his Bre∣thren, Gen. 37.2. Jacob in the 11th year of his Return into the Land of Canaan, and which might be the first of his more near approaches to his Father, Gen. 35.27. must be aged about 108 years. And this age of Jacob and Joseph falls in with the year of the World 2276. Then Joseph's Brethren, especially those of the 2d Rank, who were born of Leah, and Rachel's Servants, began to prosecute him with their Hatred, as well for the relation of his Dreams, which presaged the Dominion over them, as the Reports which he made to his Father, of their naughty Behaviour. But GOD having hindered (by Reuben and Judah) the Murthering of him, which these unnatural Wretches projected, he was sold to the Mi∣dianite Merchants, and by them to Potiphar, a great Officer under the Egyptian King, Gen. 37.1, &c. Whilst Jacob bewails the loss of his Joseph, the bloody Coat which was brought him, caused him to believe that he was torn by some wild Beasts.

Isaac his Father quietly ends the rest of his days, Anno Mundi 2288, which were con∣cluded with the 180th year of his life, after the Death of Rebecca, already deceased before his Return into Canaan. His 2 Sons were present at his Death, and honourably buried him, Gen. 35.27, 28, 29. This was in the 120th year of Jacob's Life, and the 12th since the sale of Joseph; after which hapned what's recited of Judah and Tamar, Gen. ••8. The short of which is thus; Judah was about 10 years old when his Father returned into Canaan; having soon contracted too great familiarity with Hira, he was persuaded to espouse the Daughter of a Canaanite, who was scarce at the years of Puberty; yet he had a Son of her named Er, in the 13th or 14th year of his Life; at which we need not be astonish'd, if we remember the Jews hold by an old Tradition, That a Man is obliged to Marry at 13 years of age. His two other Sons Onan and Selah, were born in the two following years. 13 or 14 years after, Er his eldest Son espouses Tamar; but he immedi∣tely dies, the Father then gives to Onan, whom GOD likewise punished by a speedy death for his filthy Crime. Judah promises to give her to the third, when he should be of Age, and obliges her in the mean time to remain a Widow in her Fathers House; but seeing her self deluded, she disguises her self in the Garb of an Harlot, and becomes a Prostitute to Judah himself, without know∣ing who she was. Having understood she was with Child, he prosecutes her to Con∣demnation for an Adulteress, as being betrothed to his 3d Son; but she discovers to him who it was by; and was Delivered of 2 Twins Phares and Zara. See the Hi∣story of this Gen., 38.1. And supposing the

Marriage of Judah, and the Birth of Er, hapned in the 14th year of his Life, and four years after the Return of Jacob into Canaan, and that 14 years after followed the Marriages of Er and Onan with Tamar, and that she past one year of Widowhood in her Father's House; the Birth of Pharez, and Zara may be terminated to the 19th or 20th year of Jacob's Return into Canaan; and so moreover may have been born of Pharez in the same Country, Hezron and Hamul, Gen. 46.12. Judah must needs have been Married much sooner than his other Brethren, seeing he alone went down into Egypt, having already Children of his Children. 'Tis thought Job was born about this time, tho the Scrip∣ture doth not take notice thereof. Whilst these things past in Canaan, Joseph serv'd in Egypt and remained several years with Poti∣phar, till refusing the impure sollicitations of his Masters Wife, he was by her Calumnies shut up in Prison; to whom the Gaoler, in time, committed the Chief care of the place. Here he interprets the dreams of Pharaoh's Cup-bearer and Baker; he informs the Cup-bearer of his Innocency, and entreats him, when at Liberty, (which was 3 days after) that he would remember him; but he forgets him till two years after he was delivered out of Prison, to interpret Pharaoh's Dream, touch∣ing the years of Plenty and Famine which were to happen; whereupon (for this and the prudent Advice he gave on this occasion, the whole Government of Egypt was com∣mitted to him, and the second place of the Kingdom, that is next unto the King, given him, Gen. Cap. 39, 40, & 41. This was in Joseph's first year, Gen. 41.46. and the 121st of Jacob, in which he was exalted in this high Dignity, and married Asenath the Governour of Onan's Daughter, Gen. 41.45.

Anno Mundi 2289. Manasses and Ephraim were born to Joseph before the Famine began, Gen. 41.50. Jacob sends at the first Year of Scarcity his Sons into Egypt, to buy Corn: Joseph knew his Brethren, but is not known of them; retains Simeon as an Hostage, and enjoyns them to bring Benjamin, Gen. 42.1, &c. They return the year following, having Ben∣jamin with them, and at the last he discovers himself to them, and sends Chariots, Gen. 44.

Jacob then comes into Egypt in the second Year of the Famine, being in the 130th year of his Life, with all his Family, which (reck∣ning Joseph and his two Sons) are 70 Souls, and were entertained in Egypt, in the Land of Goshen, Gen. 46.27, 28. and Chapter 47.9. Anno Mundi 2298. He lived moreover 17 years in Egypt, Gen. 47.18. and having stipu∣lated to be Interred in Canaan, Gen. 47.30. he blesses and adopts Joseph's 2 Sons, Gen. 48.5. and prophetically declares to all his Children what would happen to them, Gen. 49.1, &c. He died aged 147 years, and his Body was embalmed after the Egyptian manner; car∣ried back in great solemnity into Canaan, and laid with his Fathers, Gen. 50.1, &c. 'Tis thought that Job at 30 years of age, Anno 2315, almost about the same time when Jacob expired in Egypt, espous'd his Wife, whom the Greek Interpreters call Balsorra, originally of Arabia, of whom he had 7 Sons and 3 Daughters, Job 1.2.

Levi going down into Egypt with Jacob his Father, had 3 Sons, Gershon, Kehath, and Marari, all very young and unmarried; of Kehath was born Amri, the Father of Aaron and Moses: And tho the Scripture does not design the time of his Birth, we may con∣veniently refer it to the 91st year of Joseph, and the 103d year of Levi, which is Eleven years before the Death of Joseph, who lived 110 years, Exod. 6.16. A term which falls in∣to the 60th year of the descent of the Israelites into Egypt.

Joseph having gotten into the King's pos∣session all the Lands of the Egyptians, except those of the Priests, provided for his Father's Family, assured his Brethren of his affection, happily governed Egypt 80 years, dies 54 years after his Father, and orders his Bones to be carried into Canaan, Gen. 50.24, 25, 26. The Vulgars making the History of Genesis of 2300 years, is partly to make the Num∣ber run smooth, and partly to place the Birth of Abraham in the 70th year of his Father Terah, altho he was not born till the year 130, as has been already observed. A while after the Death of Joseph, those of Gath killed the Sons of Ephraim, who was thereat greatly afflicted, 1 Chron. 7.20. The Scri∣pture does not mark the years, nor the death of Jacob's other Sons excepting Levi's, who died aged 137 years, Exod. 6.6. And thus supposing he was four years older than Joseph, he must have lived 24 years more than he. We may presume, that the others more aged nearly followed Joseph; but 'tis certain none of them died before him, as may be seen, Gen 50.24. where he charges them to carry

his Bones with them, when their Posterity they should depart out of Egypt. Supposing that Kehath was aged 70 years when Amri was born, for the Scripture is silent, having lived 133 years, Exod. 6.18. he must have died in the 123d year of the descent of Jacob into Egypt, 54 years after Joseph, and 33 years after Levi his Father; which we distinctly represent, to verify, that all Moses Ancestors were dead, to wit, Jacob, Levi, Ke∣hath, and Amram, who lived 137 years, Exod. 6.20. when he was sent to the delive∣rance of the people, seeing that since the 60th year of Jacob's descent into Egypt, to the 215th year, in which his Posterity went out, there are 155.

The death of Joseph, and that of his Bre∣thren, whom we may suppose not to have lived longer than Levi, was followed with the Persecution which their Descendents suffered in Egypt, of which see Exod. 1.6, 8, &c.

Amram in the 67th year of his Life, and 127 of the descent of Jacob into Egypt, espouses Jokebed his Kinswoman, either his Aunt, his Father Kehath's Sister, or his Cou∣sin German, the Daughter of Gershon, or of Merari, one of his Unkles, Exod. 2.1. and 6.20. Of this Marriage was born first Mary, whom the Father called by this Name, by reason of the bitter condition in which all the people then lay, being under the violent Tyranny of this Pharaoh, whom common Writers have named Amenophis. Four years after the Birth of Mary, Aaron was born, and Moses 3 years after him.

After the Birth of Aaron the King seeing the means heretofore used for the oppression of the people did not succeed, and that the more they were afflicted, the more they mul∣tiplied, Exod. 1.12. took a Resolution secretly to put to death all the Males, intending to oblige the Midwives Siphora and Puah to stifle them in the Birth; which they would not do, excusing themselves to the Tyrant by an ingenious Artifice, Exod. 1.15, &c. But he afterwards used open violence, enjoyning that all the Males should be drowned in the Nile. Moses being Born under this cruel Edict, in Anno 2428, was expos'd on the Nile 3 months after. The Daughter of Pharaoh, whom some name Thermutis, others Merris, causes the Thing in which he was, to be brought her from amongst the Rushes, where the cur∣rent of Water had carried it, and being moved with Compassion, resolved to save its life, which Mary (a little Girl of 7 or 8 years old) observing, offers her self to the Princess to find out a Nurse, and brings her the Mother, who is charged to suckle and take care of it, Exod. 2.1, &c. When he was grown up, Jokebed his Mother brings him to the Princess, who Adopts him for her own, gives him the Name of Moses, because she had taken him out of Waters, Exod. 2.10. and has him carefully brought up in all the Egyptian Learning, Acts 7.22, &c.

'Tis thought he had several great Offices in the Kings Court, where he was considered as the presumptive Heir of the Crown; but he slipped all the Honours and Advantages in the World, when they stood in competition with his service of GOD, Heb. 11.24, 25, 26. For at the Age of 40 years he resolved to go and visit his Brethren, kills an Egyptian who had wronged an Israelite, endeavours to reconcile 2 Israelites who were at variance, and finding the murther of the Egyptian was known, and that the King was offended thereat, tesolving to punish him, he fled into the Country of Midian, Exodus 2.11, &c. Acts 7.23, &c. He began to discover himself by the assistance he gave to Rehuel's Daugh∣ters, the Priest, or Governour of Midian, against the violence of Shepherds, who would hinder them from watering their Flocks. This Rehuel was the Father of Jethro, called also Hobad, whose Daughter Moses espoused, the Grand Daughter of Rehuel, named Zip∣porah, Exod. 2.16, &c. and 3.1. & 18.1.

Deucalion's Flood is referred to the 67th year of Moses, and the Conflagration of Pha∣eton to the following, which is to say, That the first of these years suffered great Inunda∣tions, and the following was tormented with intolerable Heat: Which Heathenish Narra∣tions, have risen from an Hearsay, of what the Holy Scripture recites of the Deluge of Noah, and burning of Sodom.

After Moses had past the first 40 years of his Life at the Court, and the 2d in his Exile at Midian, the 3d was consecrated to the Deliverance and Guidance of the People; for he was aged 80 years when GOD sent him into Egypt, and Aaron 83, Exod. 7.7. Moses in this Age began his Journey towards Egypt, being in the year 2508, he ran a Risque of his Life for neglecting the Circum∣cision of his Son; whereupon Zipporah grew outragious, and is sent back to her Father, Exod. 4.24, &c. Aaron comes and meets Moses,

whereupon they go together to the executing of their Charge, Exod. 4.27, &c. See how they acquit themselves of it, Chap. 5, &c. The first Passover is celebrated the 14th Month of Nisan, and in the same Night the Israelites go forth, and begin their Journey not only with the consent, but even at the instance of the Egyptians, after the Tenth Plague, with which GOD had smote them that Night, Exod. 12.29, &c. This was the 430th year after Abraham departed out of Ur, Ex. 12.40. Galat. 3.17. the 400th year af∣ter the Birth of Isaac, Gen. 15.23. Acts 7.6. the 215th from the descent of Jacob into Egypt, the 145th year after the death of Jo∣seph, the 80th of the Life of Moses, and of the World the 2508th.

CHAP V. Of the Fourth Age, or Period of the World.

THis Fourth Age, or Period, as hath been already said, begins at the Children of Israel's deliverance out of Egypt, being in the Year of the World 2513, and ends at the Foundation of the Temple of Solomon, which is in the Year of the World 2992, making an Interval of 479 years; which may be divided in such a manner as is to be seen in this Table, which shews who were the Leaders and Rulers of the People of GOD, from Moses to Solomon.

The Table of the Fourth Age, or Period of the World.

Year of the World			Year before Christ
2553	Moses died after the Deliverance out of Egypt	40 years	1451
2559	From the Death of Moses, to the Rest given by Joshuah	6 years	1445
2599	From thence, to the Peace made by Othoniel	40 years	1405
2679	From thence, to the Peace made by Ehud	80 years	1325
2719	From thence, to the Peace made by Debora	40 years	1285
2759	From thence, to the Peace made by Gideon	9 years	1245
2768	Gideon being dead, the Children of Israel served Baal for some years, probably about	9 years	1236
2771	Afterwards Abimelech governed the People	3 years	1233
2794	THOLA	23 years	1208
2816	JAIR	23 years	1188
2822	JEPTHA	6 years	1182
2829	ABESAN	7 years	1175
2839	AHIALON	10 years	1164
2847	ABDON	8 years	1157
2887	ELI	40 years	1117
2909	SAMUEL	21 years	1095
2949	SAUL	40 years	1055
2989	DAVID	40 years	1015
2992	The Foundation of Solomon's Temple was laid in the beginning of the 4th year of Solomon's Reign	4 years	1012
		The Total 480 years.

There is nothing in this Table, which is not taken from Holy Scripture: But nothing is here said of Sampson, as great and mighty as the Atchievements which he acted in the time of Eli; so that we must take half the years of Eli (that is to say 20) and give them to Samp∣son; as several have done before.

But to proceed according to our former Method in the foregoing Ages. This Period is expresly defined 1 Kings 6.1. and in effect the Children of Israel were under the Conduct of Moses 40 years, 17 under that of Joshuah, under Judges 299, under Eli, Samuel, and Saul 80, under David 40; and it was in the 4th year of Solomon, when the Foundations of the Temple were laid.

This express Text of the Old Testament can't be opposed by the Passage of the New, in Acts 13.20. which seems to denote about 450 years since the destruction of the 7 Na∣tions to Samuel. For not to alledge here whatever may be said for the reconciling of these 2 passages, all the difficulty will be removed, if we keep to some ancient Greek Copies, followed by the vulgar Version in the Book of the Acts; which contain, That GOD having destroyed 7 Nations in the Land of Canaan, he delivered their Lands by Lot about 450 years after, and afterwards gave them Judges, till the Prophet Samuel. So that this term of 450 years agrees with what is said in the 17th Verse, That GOD had chosen our Fathers (in the Vocation of Abraham, and in the Birth of Isaac) and that after the 450th of this Election, the People who were descended, had obtained under Joshuah the division or portion of the Country; and this term will be easily found, if we joyn the 400 years which slipt till the Birth of Isaac, to the departure of the Children of Israel out of Egypt, and the 40 years which past in the Desart, with the 7 first of Joshuah, after which began the dividing of the Country; and 'tis far better to keep to this, than to attempt the correcting of either Text, and to say, therein is an Error, whether in the first of 480 for 580, or in the second of 450 for 350. 'Tis not necessary to cut the Knot, when one may unty it.

Moses then conducted the People 40 years in the Wilderness, which the Scripture asserts in so many places, that the matter is beyond all question. In the first year of the Month Nisan was celebrated the first Passo∣ver. In the same Night the Israelites part from Rameses to the number of 600000 Foot, without their Wives and little Children, and encamp in Succoth, Exod. 12.37. of this number were Joshuah and Caleb, the first younger than Moses by 27 years, and the 2d aged 39 years, when the People went out; Joshuah 14.7. From Succoth they came into Etham, Exod. 13.20. from•• Etham to Pihahiroth, where the first Murmur arose, Exod. 14.2, 11. and whence they past the Sea dry, Exod. 12.16, &c. Their 4th post was in the Desart of Shur, which seems like∣wise to be named the Wilderness of Etham, Exod. 15.22. Numbers 33.8. Thence they came to Marah, where again they Murmur for the bitterness of the Waters, Exod. 15.23, &c. Then they encamped in Elim, where they find sweet Waters, Exod. 15.27. Num∣bers 33.9. In the parting from Elim they made towards the Red Sea, Numb. 33.10. whence they came to the Desart of Sin, between Elim and Sinai, the 15th day of the second Month after their departure from Egypt, Exod. 16.1. There arose another Murmur for Bread and Flesh, whereupon GOD gives them Quails and Manna, with which they were fed 40 years, Exod. 16.12, 13, 14, 15. from thence they removed towards Dephka; next to ••lus, and from thence to Rephidam which was their 11th Post, Exod. 17.1. Numb. 33.12, 13, 14. Here they mur∣mured for want of Water, which the Rock of Horeb (struck with Moses Rod) furnish'd them with, and under the Conduct of Jo∣shuah, by the Prayers of Moses they beat and represt the Amalekites, Exod. 17.1, &c. Here also Jethro, Moses Father-in-Law, comes to him, and brings his Wife and 2 Sons Exod. 18.1, &c. Being parted from thence they arrived at the Desart of Sinai, famous for the publication of the Decalogue, 50 days after the Passover, on the 6th day of the Month of Sivan, answering partly to our May, and partly to June, in memory of which the Feast of Pentecost was Anniver∣sary among the Jews. The People being terrified, prayed Moses to interpose between GOD and them, and Moses communing sepa∣rately with GOD, receives at several times sundry Judiciary and Ceremonial Laws, which may be seen Exodus Chapters 20, 21, 22, 23. He is sent to publish them to the People▪ and exact their obedience, who promises it; and having added these Laws, and those of the Decalogue, to what he had already writ∣••en

by the divine Command, Exod. 17.14. not only in Genesis, written under the divine Inspiration, or during the time whilst he and Aaron sollicited in Egypt the dismission of the People, or immediately after the passage over the Red Sea; but also in the 18 first Chapters of Exodus. He erects an Altar at the foot of the Mountain, environed with 12 Stones, and there offers Federal Victims, and sprinkles with their Blood the Altar and the People (represented as well by the 12 Columns which joyn the Altar, as by the 70 Ancients, who assisted at it) and the Book of the Covenant, which then contained Genesis, and the 23 first Chapters of Exodus, having first read the 4 last, in which were contained the Clauses stipulated, and promis'd in this Covenant, Exod. 24.2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. This Act being finish'd, Moses receives a new Order to ascend the Mountain, Exod. 24.1, 2. but whilst he there communes with GOD for 40 days to∣gether, without eating and drinking, and is divinely instructed of whatever is requisite for the structure of the Tabernacle, and the consecration of Aaron, and his Sons, Exodus Chapters 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. The Peo∣ple being impatient, require of Aaron, to have Gods to carry before them; whereupon the Golden Calf is melted, and they worship it: See the History and Sequel thereof, Exodus Chap. 32, and 33. Moses being vexed at these Peoples Idolatry, and broken by a just Indignation the 2 Tables of the Law, which GOD had given him, to be shut up in the Ark of the Covenant; but after the cen∣sure of the People, and the calcination of the Golden Calf, and the Levites had killed 3000 of these Idolaters, and Moses by his Prayers had obtain'd pardon for the rest, he made 2 other Tables like to the first, and goes up again towards the LORD, there tarrying 40 days more, and returns with his Countenance shining, Exodus Chapter 34.

All this past in the first 7 Months of the departure of the Israelites, and the rest of this first year is employed in building the Tabernacle, Exodus Chap. 36, &c. In the beginning of the 2d year the Tabernacle of Assignation is prepared and consecrated, and Aaron and his Sons establish'd in the Priesthood, according to the order prescribed, Exod. 29.35, &c. Nadab and Abihu are punish'd from Heaven for using strange Fire, Levit. 10.1, &c. and the Passover is cele∣brated in its Season, Numb. 9.2. A while after the Blasphemer is stoned, Levit. 24.10, &c. and the People are numbred, Numb. Chap. 1, & 3. After Israel had sojourned near a year in this place, they parted in the 2d year of their Exit, in the 20th of the 2d Month, and drew from Tabhera, or Kibrothtaava, towards the Desart of Paran, where arose also another murmuring for the difficulty of the Way, for which GOD pu∣nish'd them by Fire, which consumed some of the Authors, Numb. 11.1, &c. In the same place also began another murmuring for Flesh, which GOD appeased by a great quan∣tity of Quails, of which they eat for a Month, Numb. 11.4, &c. at the end of which GOD punish'd them with a great Plague, of which several died, whereupon this place was called, The Sepulchre of Covetousness, Numb. 11.33, &c. Here was set up at the divine Ap∣pointment the great Council of Seventy, Numb. 11.16, 17, 24, 25. of which 2 remain∣ing in the Camp, Eldad and Medad, do also Prophecy, Numb. 11.26, 27. Thence they come into Hatseroth, where Mary and Aaron quarrel with Moses, about his Ethiopian Wife; for which Mary is struck with a Leprosie, and shut up for 7 days, Numb. 11.35. and 12.1, &c. After Mary was healed, they came to Rithma, Numb. 36.18. which made a part of the great Desart of Paran, Numb. 13.1. which was called Kadesbarnea, Deut. 1.2, 20, &c. because the Town of this Name confined on it. From hence were sent the Spies into the Land of Canaan, who return∣ing at the end of 40 days, discouraged the People, as if it were inaccessable, and impreg∣nable; but Joshuah and Caleb, who had been there, contradicted the others, and encou∣rage the People, Numb. 13.1, &c. How∣ever the People Mutiny on this occasion, and are for returning into Egypt, which made GOD pronounce, that none of them should enter into Canaan, except Joshuah and Caleb; and that they should abide still in the Desart until the 40 years of their Exit were expired. The cowardly Spies are punished with death, Numb, 14.1, &c.

The Israelites (having by a kind of Re∣pentance) attempted to open a passage into the Promis'd▪ Land, notwithstanding Moses Dissuasives, are beaten both by the Amale∣kites and the Canaanites, Numb. 14.39, &c. Thence in the third year of their Exit, they turn towards the Red Sea, and encamp near

Rimmon-perets, and in the other following specified places, Numb. 33.19, &c. Some conjecture, that the Breaker of the Sabbath was stoned in Rimmon-perets, Numb. 15.32. and that the Schism of Korath, Dathan, and Abiram, with all its consequences, hapned in Kehulah, Numb. Chap. 16, & 17. in the 4th year of their Exit; but as to the parti∣cularities of the 35 other years, the Scripture says nothing, only in general, that they of∣ten changed their Posts, Numb. Chap. 33, &c.

The last place of their abode was remark∣able; Mary, Sister to Moses dies in the De∣sart of Tsin in Kadesh, in the first Month, Numb. 20.1. The Israelites Murmur again for want of Water, whereupon Moses and Aaron are doubtful, Numb. 20.12, &c. desire a passage thro the Land of Edom, which is refused them, Numb 20.14, &c. Aaron dies 4 Months after his Sister on the Mount of Hor, aged 123 years, and his Son Eleanor succeeds him, Numb. 20.25, & 33.38. The Israelites defeat Harad King of the Canaanites in Horma, Numb. 21.1, &c. Pass from Hor into Tsalmona, and from thence to Punon. They murmur again against GOD who punishes them with scorching Serpents, against the biting of which the Brazen Serpent is set up, Numb. 21.5. Passing from thence they go over the Brook Zerea, and that of Arnon, whence they send an Embassy to Sihon King of Heshbon, to desire passage, which is refused, raising an Army to hinder them, whereupon he is defeated, and his Country conquered, Numb. 21.21. and Deut. 2.24, &c. Hog or Og, King of Bashan, is treated after the same manner, Numb. 21.33. and Deut. 3.1.

After these Victories, the Israelites post themselves in the Campaigns of Moab; Balac King of Moab entreats Balaam to Curse the People, the LORD hinders him, Numb. 22, 23, 24. But by his pernicious Council Balac sends Harlots into the Israeliees Camp, who draw them to Corporal and Spiritual Fornication; on account of which Phineas shews his Zeal in piercing with a Javelin Zimri and Cosbi (who was a Midianite Wo∣man) in the very act of their filthiness, Numb. Chap. 25. This Debauchery having been severely and speedily punished, the People were numbred again, that the Coun∣try might be divided amongst the Tribes proportionable to their number, Numb. Chap. 26. Moses advertiz'd of his death, established Joshuah for a Guide after him, Numb. 27.12, &c. He is sent with Phin••as against the Midianites, who are defeated, and Balaam killed amongst them, Numb. 31.1, &c. The 2 Tribes of Ruben and Gad, and the half Tribe of Manasses, have for their portion the Country conquered on this side Jordan, Numb. Chap. 32.

The last Month of the year was employed by Moses in the repitition of the Law, whence the Book af Deuteronomy has taken its name; and having Sang his Song, and pronounced his Benediction touching each Tribe, Deut. Chap. 32. & 33. he goes up to the top of the Mountain of Neho, where the LORD shewed him all the Country, after which he died aged 120 years, and his Body was disposed of by GOD himself, never any one having known the place where it lay.

Anno Mundi 2549. Joshuah takes then in hand the Reins of the Government, sends from Shittim Spies to Jericho, who lodge at Rahabs, Josh. 2.1, &c. After their return the people march, having carried before them the Ark of the Covenant, and pass over Jordan dryshod the 10th day of the first Month, Josh. Chap. 3, & 4. The next Morn∣ing the People are Circumcis'd in Gilgal; the Passover is kept on the 14th; the Manna ceaseth, and the Son of GOD appears to Joshuah, to encourage him, Josh. 5.1, &c. The next Morning of the Passover Jericho is invested; on the 7th day its Walls fall of themselves, and is burnt and destroyed; yet Rahab is spared, whom Salmon the Son of Nahasson, chief in the Tribe of Judah takes to Wife, Josh. 6, &c. Matth. 1.4, 5. Some days after Hai is attack'd, and at first the Israelites are repuls'd with loss, for Achans Crime, who had sinn'd in Jericho; but the fact being discovered, and punish'd, Hai is taken by Stratagem, is fired, and its King hang'd, Josh. Chap. 7, 8. After the taking of this Town the Law is again pub∣lish'd with its Blessings and Cursings on the Mountain of Gerrizim and Hebal, Josh. 8.30, &c.

The Gibeonites craftily provide for their safety, Josh. 9.3. Joshuah seeing them at∣tack'd by 5 Canaanitish Kings Leagued against them, marches to their assistance, and defeats their Enemies, Heaven it self fighting for him with Hail-stones, and the Sun stopping in the midst of its course, to

give him time to pursue his Victory, Josh. 10.1, &c. This Victory is crown'd with the ignominious death of the 5 Kings, who had hid themselves in a Cave, and with the taking of Makkeda, Libna, Lakis, Heglon, Hebron, and Debir, where all are put to the Sword, Josh. 10.16, &c. After these ex∣ploits of the first year, the People retired into their Camp at Gilgal, Josh. 10.43. to the beginning of the next, in which they obtain Victories against Jabin King of Hat∣sor, and his Confederates, which are recited, Josh. 11.1, &c. The 5 following years were spent in other Military Expeditions, of which we read Josh. 11.16, &c. and 12.1, &c.

In the following was made the distribution and division of the Country, Josh. Chapters 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, & 19. for this division began not till after the 7th year of the Peo∣ples entrance into Canaan, which clearly appears from what Caleb says, Josh. 14.10. He was, says he, 40 years old when sent with the other Spies, to discover the Country of Canaan; and when he spake to Joshuah about making of a division he was 85. The Cities of Refuge are establish'd, Josh. 20.11, &c. and those of the Levites, Josh. 20.1, &c. The Rubenites and Gadites, with half the Tribe of Manasses are sent to their Quarters beyond Jordan, who satisfie the rest touch∣ing the erecting an Altar, before they past over it, Josh. 22.1. In fine, a good while after this, Joshuah being old, calls all Israel to him at Sichem, sets before them their Duty, renews the Covenant between GOD and them, conjures them to serve him in all purity, and dies aged 110 years, Josh. Chap. 23, & 24.

According to the calculation of the most exact Chronologists, J••shuah governed the People the space of 17 years; for he could be no less aged than 53 years when the People came out of Egypt, seeing that in the same year he was made their Captain Gene∣ral against the Amalekites. At the same time also died Eleazer, the Son of Aaron, who had succeeded his Father in the High-Priesthood,, which he left to Phineas his Successor, Josh. 24.33. being about the year 2566.

The History of the Judges is something harder to calculate, to reckon from the time it assigns to each Judge, and therein compre∣hending that of the oppression, to the death of Sam••son, 'twill only contain the term of 299 years. Those who will reckon separately the time of the Servitude and Oppression, find more difficulty, because the term will increase full 111 years; whereas in joyning to these 299 years, the 57 years of Moses, and of Jo∣shuah, the 40 of Heli, the 40 of Samuel and of Saul, Acts 13.21. the 40th of David, 1 Kings 2.11. the 4th of Solomon, 1 Kings 6.1. which are all marked in Scripture, we shall have pre∣cisely the 480 years which are specified, 1 Kings 6.1.

And it signifies nothing to alledge, that in the time of Jephtha, the Israelites were since 300 years in possession of the Country, Judges 11.26. seeing that often in Scripture the even Number is put for the broken: If one would then reckon the Prescription which Jephtha alledges, since the Israelites came out of Egypt, and were conducted by GOD to the taking and possessing the Coun∣try, there must have been more than 300 years to Jephtha; if it be taken from the possession, which was in the last year of Moses, there will be something less. And forasmuch as 'tis denoted in the Argument of the Book of Judges, that the History be∣gins (according to the calculation of some) in the year 2511, and ends in the year 2810. this principally arises from the Hypothesis of those, who think Abraham was born in the 70th year of Thares, whereas we reckon he was born 60 years after. And as in this Argument we have followed the French, so we believe 'tis by the Printers fault, there••s inserted 2511 for 2541, and 2810 for 2840, to which if you add 5 years of the first vocation of Abraham, whence we begin the 430 to the Exit, this calculation will amount to ours. Let us then reckon from the death of Joshuah in the year of the World 2565, to that of Hothniel 40 years, Judges 3.11. under which are comprehended the Anarchy which followed the death of Joshuah, of which see Examples, Judges Chapters 17, 18, 19, 20, 21. the defection of the People, to the Worship of Idols, the vexation of 8 years, which they suffered by the King of Mesopotamia, Judges 2.10, 11. and 3.7, 8. and the re-establishment of all by Hothniel; to the time of his death, which was the 40 years after that of Joshuah, Josh. 3.11. so that the History of the Idolatry of Micah, and the taking of Lais by those of Dan, Judges Chap. 17, & 18. and that of the War of the other Tribes against the Benja∣mites,

for the Injury committed by them of Gibeah against a Levite and his Concubine, Judges Chapter 19.20, 21. belong to these first forty years of Judges. But the rest of the People, whom GOD had procured them by Hothniel, made them some return to their first train, and therefore they fell under a fresh Oppression from Heglon King of Moab, which lasted 18 years, till Ehud was rais'd up for a Deliverer, who having kill'd Heglon, the Country was at rest till the 80th year after the death of Hothniel, Judges 3.30. except∣ing some slight Incursions of the Philistins, which hapned at that time; whom Shamgur, tho ill Arm'd, Heroically represt, Judges 3.31.

The death of these two was followed, as it were, by a new corruption of the people, as also with a violent oppression of them by Jabin King of Hatsor, and Sisera the Ge∣neral of the Forces, which lasted the space of twenty years, and till Deborah, who then Judged the people, animated Barac to Arms, and then they together defeated Sisera, who saving himself on Foot, and being retired into the Tent of Jabel, the Wife of Heber Ke∣nian, was there killed by her, which pro∣cured more rest, till the year 40, since the death of Ehud and Shamgar, Judges Chapters 4, & 5.31.

After this signal Deliverance, Anno Mundi 2725. the Israelites being return'd to their Vomit, GOD raised the Midianites to cha∣stise them, and after a seven years molestati∣on, Gideon, called Jerubbal, was sent to deli∣ver them. See the History Judges Chapters 6, 7, 8. which lays down till other 40 years, to the decease of Gideon, Judges 8.28. He modestly refused the Scepter, which was of∣fered him, Judges 8.22, 27. His Death was followed by a new corruption of the Israe∣lites, Judges 8.33. of their Ingratitude a∣gainst his House, Judges 3.34. of the Mur∣ther of sixty nine of his legitimate Children by Abimelech, his Natural Son, induced by those of Shichem to Tyranny, Judges 9.1, &c. This Domination of Abimelech was as short as violent, lasting only three years, Judges 9.22. for a mis-intelligence hapning between the Shichemites and him, at the instigation of Gahal, he took, and razed▪ the Town, burnt all the principal persons in a Tower where they had retired, and besieging that of Tebets, a Woman bruised his Head with a great Stone, whereupon he made his Servant put an end to his Life, Judges 9.23, &c whereby it came to pass, what Jotham the youngest of his Brethren, who had escaped his Violence, had foretold in his Apology, Judges 9.7, &c.

Anno 2768. Afterwards came Tolah, who Judged Israel 23 years, Judges 10.1, 2. Now as the Wastes which the Midionites made every year before Gideon defeated them, caused without doubt a great Dearth in Israel, which obliged Elimelech, and Na∣homi his Wife, to retire with their Family into the Land of Moab; so 'tis very likely that Nahomi return'd to Bethlehem with Ruth his Daughter-in-Law, under the Govern∣ment of Tolah. Jair succeeded him in the like Office for the space of 22 years, Judges 10.3. These 22 years were not very peace∣able, nor consecrated by the Israelites to the Service of GOD: And therefore in the 18th year of his Government GOD began to chastise them, on one hand by the Philistins, and on the other, chiefly and more violently by the Ammonites, Judges 10.7, 8, 9. where∣upon Jeptha the Gileadite, whom his Brothers had driven away, is recall'd by those of Gi∣lead to be their Captain: He defeats the Am∣monites, executes on his Daughter (by a For∣mal death) the rash Vow he had made, Judg. 11.1, &c. severely chastises the Ephramites, who had Mutinied against him, Judges 12.1, &c. and dies, having governed 6 years, Judges 12.7. The taking of Troy is referred to the time of Jeptha.

Anno Mundi 2819. Ibtsan the Bethlemite, who had thirty Sons and as many Daughters, governed 7 seven years, Judges 12.8, 9. Eglon the Zabulonite 10 years, Judges 12.11. and Habdon the Pirathonite 8 years, Judges 12.13, 14. which makes 25 years for the 3. In the same time as the Ammonites (towards the end of the Government of Jair) used their endeavours against the People of GOD whom Jeptha represt; the Philistins also made new Attempts, Judges 10.7. after the first Essay, in which Shamgar had resisted in his time; and they continued the space of 40 years, Judges 13.1. until Sampson, the Israelites Hercules, who Judged Israel 20 years, began to encourage them; for after∣wards the Israelites lay not still without Reta∣liations, frequently opposing the Philistins even under Eli, altho with different Successes, sometimes beating, and other whiles being beaten, till Samuel, Judges 16.31. He is

also called Bedan, 1 Sam. 12.11. See the miraculous History of Sampson, Judges Chap∣ters 13, 14, 15, 16. After his Death, in which expired the Year 299 from that of Joshuah; Eli the High Priest Judged Israel 40 years, 1 Sam. 4.18. The Sacred History does not denote, when died Phineas the Son and Successor of Eleazer in the High Priest∣hood; nor how this Dignity past from Eleazers Family, who was Aarons eldest Son, into that of Ithamar, who was the youngest: For Eli descended of Ithamar, as is seen 1 Sam. 8.3, 4. and 1 Chron. 3.4. So also it return'd in Zadock to its first Branch, 1 Kings 2.27. and 1 Chron. 6.8. Some make Eli to succeed immediately to Phineas about the time when Sampson began to act against the Philistins; but there appears no reason for giving of Phineas such a long life, which must have exceeded the term of 300 years. Some say Phineas was deposed on occasion of Jeptha's Vow; Some say for having approved of the bloody Execution, and others for designing to hinder it.

Josephus pretends, that after Phineas, suc∣ceeded in their order Abishah his Son, and Bukki his Grandson, of whom is mention, 1 Chron. 6.50, 51. And perhaps after the im∣mature death of Bukki, we should pass by Eli to the branch of Ithamar, not to find any one in that of Eleazer, who was of competent age, or who had all the requisite Conditions for this employ.

Samuel was born under him, and grew up with the time, fit for the Tabernacle, which was then at Shiloh, 1 Sam. Chap. 1, & 2. The Sons of Eli, Hophni and Phineas, behave them∣selves ill, at which he is reprehended by a Prophet, 1 Sam. 2.22, 27, &c. and also by the Ministry of Samuel, 1 Sam. 3.1, &c. To∣wards the end of the Government, and life of Eli, there was a great Fight between the Philistins and Israelites, in which these latter were worsted, Eli's 2 Sons killed, and the Ark taken; at this sorrowful News brought to Philoh, Eli aged 98 years, and deprived of the use of his sight, falls from his Chair and breaks his Neck; and his Daughter-in-Law, the wife of Phineas, dies in Child-Bed, and calls her Son Ichabod, more afflicted for the taking of the Ark, than for the death of her Husband, 1 Sam. 4.10.

Anno 2984. The Ark, altho a Prisoner, yet triumphs over the Philistins, 1 Sam. 5.1, &c. who sent it back again into Israel at the end of 7 Months; and arrives at Beth∣shemes, and the People of those parts are pu∣nished with a great Plague, for having look'd into the Penetralia of it; for there died 70070 Men, 1 Sam. 6.1, &c. From Bethshemes it's carried to Kirjathjeharim to Aminidab, where it remained 20 years without being removed, 1 Sam. 7.1, 2. for it seems not to have been till▪ Samuel made it be brought and set down at Gilgal, for a while after the Anointing of Saul, which is thought may be collected from 1 Sam. 12.14, & 13.4.

Now altho' 'twas some Consolation to the People to see the Ark returned, yet they found their Affairs in great disorder after the loss of so great a Battle: But Samuel having convocated the People at Mitspa, the Philistins, who took hold of this occasion to invade the Israelites, are put to flight by means of a great Thunder, and pursued as far as Bethcar, 1 Sam. 7.3, &c. From that time the Phi∣listins were kept in some awe, till after the decease of Samuel; for he retook the Towns which they had obtained from the Israelites, and continued in his Magistracy as long as he lived, 1 Sam. 7.13, 14, 15. And tho' Saul was established King by him, yet he still re∣tain'd some remains of his first Authority till his death.

S. Paul attributes 40 years to Samuel, and to Saul conjoyntly, Acts 13.21. But we are not certain how many years Saul reigned, nor how many he survived Samuel, whose death is mentioned 1 Sam. 25.1. 'Tis certain that Samuel being old, and his Sons, whom he began to establish Judges over Israel degenerating from his Vertue, the Ancients of the People ask'd a King of him, and he set before them, what they must then expect, 1 Sam. 8.1, &c.

Saul the Benjamite is divinely directed to Samuel, who Anoints him as King, and pre∣sents him to all the People convocated at Mitspa, 1 Sam. Chap. 9, & 10. His first Exploit of War was to raise the Siege, which Nahash the Ammonite had laid against Jabesh of Giliad; which succeeding, he thereby won the affection of the People, even of those who had at first despised him, and he is by Samuel solemnly confirmed in his Dignity, 1 Sam. 11.1, &c. Samuel takes occasion in this Assembly to justifie his Conduct, to reprehend the People for their lightness, to exhort them to their duty, and to astonish them by a great Mircale, 1 Sam.

12.1, &c. In the 2d year of King Saul Jonathan his Son repels the Philistin Gar∣rison, which lay near Gilboa; whereupon they reinforce themselves, and come to Michmash. Samuel in this publick Consternation had charged Saul to expect him at Gilgal; but he being impatient, and under pretence of Devotion, offers Sacrifices; for which he is sharply reprehended by Samuel, who makes known to him his Rejection, and that another should be substituted in his place, 1 Sam. 13.1, &c. Now in this Terror the People being half Unarm'd, Saul stands only on the defensive, and contents himself with guarding the Pas∣sages: But Jonathan having only his Shield-Bearer with him, ascends between 2 Rocks to attack the Philistins Corps de Gard, and does great Execution amongst them, and thereby puts the Enemies Army into great confusion and dissention: Upon which Saul (with his Army) pursues them; and those Israelites, whom Fear had made to hide them∣selves, now come out and joyn themselves to him; so that the Defeat was very great. See all the particulars, 1 Sam. Chap. 14. Being heartned by his Victory, he beats this Enemy on all sides, 1 Sam. 14.47. reccives Com∣mandment by Samuel to fall on the Amale∣kites, over whom he gains a signal Victory; but spares King Agag, and great store of Cat∣tel and Booty, contrary to the Divine Com∣mand. But Samuel put Agag to death of his own Authority, and from that time he saw Saul no more, 1 Sam. 15.1, &c.

David, when as yet young, not exceeding 20 or 22 years, is secretly Anointed by Samuel King over Israel, 1 Sam. 16.13. But Saul being troubled with an Evil Spirit, David is sent for to play on Musical Instruments before him, during these vexatious Paroxisms, 1 Sam. 16.18, &c. The Philistins having reassembled their Forces, have Goliah in their Army, who braving that of the Israelites, and offering to decide the Quarrel by a single Combat, is undertaken, and kill'd by David; which conciliates a real Kindness from Jona∣than, and the Envy and Hatred of Saul, 1 Sam. 17.1. From hence arose divers Per∣secutions against David, which the Sacred Story gives a particular account of, 1 Sam. Chap. 18, &c. to which we owe several of his Psalms. First, Saul endeavoured to pierce him with his Javelin, 1 Sam. 18.10, 11. Then he makes him a Collonel of a 1000 Men, to make him perish by his Enemies; but he met every where with Success, 1 Sam. 18.13, &c. He afterwards promises him Merab his eldest Daughter, but gives her to Hadriel, 1 Sam. 18.17, &c. but in her stead he gives him Michal, the youngest, and de∣mands of him for her Dowry, 100 of the Philistins Fore-skins. David furnishes him with double the number, and Espouseth her, 1 Sam. 18.20, &c. After this Marriage, Saul designs to Assassinate him; but Jonathan hinders him the first time, 1 Sam. 19.1, &c. and David being well received again by the King, obtains from him a notable Victory against the Philistins, 1 Sam. 19.7, 8. This lasted not long, for being vexed with his Evil Spirit, as David played on the Harp before him, he tries again to kill him with his Javelin. David declines the Stroak, and hastens to his own House: Saul besieges it; but by the prudence of Michal he escapes also this Danger, 1 Sam. 19.11, &c. He comes then towards Samuel, and retires with him to Naioth; where Saul sends first, and then comes himself to take him, but in vain, 1 Sam. 19.18, &c.

David being afterwards come secretly to Jonathan, they contrive together how to provide for his safety; he is determin'd for Nob, where Abimelech the High Priest gives him the Consecrated Bread, for want of other, and Goliah's Sword, with which he goes towards Achish King of Gath; where seeing his Life in danger, he counterfeits himself Mad to escape, and is on this account driven from the Court, 1 Sam. Chap. 20, &c. 21. This Achish is also called Abimelech, Psal. 34.1. But as to the High Priest, Abimelech, he was the Son of Ahitub; and this was of Phineas the Son of Eli, 1 Sam. 14.3. and 22.11. so that Ahitub obtained the High Priesthood af∣ter his Fathers and Grandfathers death, and left it afterwards to his Son Abimelech, who was also called Ahijah, 1 Sam. 14.3. Thence he saves himself in the Cave of Adullam, where his near Friends came and found him, together with others, to the number of 400 Fighting Men. He secures his Father and Mother in the Country of Moab, whence he parts by the advice of Gad, an holy Prophet of great esteem in that time, to come into the Land of Juda, in the Forrest of Herets, 1 Sam. 22.1, &c. In the mean time Doeg the Idumean tells Saul, he had seen him at Nob, and how Abimelech received him; where∣fore Saul not only puts him, but all the

Priests of his Family to death, to the number of 85, destroys the whole Town of Nob, and puts all the Inhabitants (without distinction of Sex or Age) to the Sword. Abiathar the Son of Abimelech having only escaped this Slaughter retired towards David, and brought him the News, and succeeded him in his time in the Dignity of High Priest, 1 Sam. 22.9, &c.

Tho David was only armed for his own preservation, yet he ceased not on all occa∣sions to use his Arms for the Publick, and therefore he goes and Charges the Philistins at Kehila, and delivers the Town from their hands. Saul thinks to surprize him, and the Inhabitants were ready to deliver him; but being warned of their design from GOD, he departs, and retires to the Desart of Ziph, where Jonathan comes and finds him. The Ziphians advertize Saul thereof, and offer themselves for his Guides to pursue him: But David having notice of his March, shifts from him, until the Philistins being entred into the Country obliged Saul to desist from his Pursuit, 1 Sam. 23.1, &c.

David being delivered from so eminent a danger in the Desart of Mahon, retires to the strong places of Engeddi, of which Saul being advertiz'd, goes in search of him, and falls into the hands of David, in a Cave where he was hid, and contented himself with cutting off a piece of his Garment, as a token that he might have killed him, if he would, whereupon Saul acknowledges his Inno∣cency, and desires of him, that when he should come to the Crown, he would not destroy his Family. 1 Sam. 24.1. Not long after this Samuel dies, and David retires with his Friends to the Desart of Paran; he sends to demand Provisions of Nabal, whose People had received all manner of good Offices from him in the Desart, yet he refuses them; but Abigal his Wife dexterously prevents the Misery which her Husbands Churlishness had drawn on him, at which he dies with Vexa∣tion, and David Marries his Widow, whom he adds to Ahinoam his other Wife, which he had espoused after Saul had taken Michal from him, and Married her to Palti, 1 Sam. 25.1, &c. After this the Ziphians go to Saul the 2d time, and advertize him, that David was again returned towards them; whereupon he again pursues him with 3000 Men. David enters by Night into his Camp, goes into his Tent, takes his Javelin which stuck at his Beds-head, and his Pot of Water, and passes on the other side, rouses Abner and Saul, and shews them again, that the Kings Life was in his hands; at which Saul con∣fus'd, acknowledges his Fault, and promises to desist from persecuting him, 1 Sam. 26.1, &c. Yet David durst not confide in his word, but retires into the Country of the Philistins to∣wards Achis King of Gath, who gives him Ziklag for a place of surety and retreat, which he made his place of residence 16 Months, un∣til the death of Saul; whence he made his In∣roads on the inveterate Enemies of Israel, and always return'd laden with Booties, which Achish thought to be taken from those of Judah, 1 Sam 27.1, &c.

Achish being confirmed by this Opinion which he had of David, declares to him, that he would make use of him and his Men, 1 Sam. 28.1, &c. And thereupon a new Ex∣pedition is form'd by the Philistins against the Israelites. Saul, destitute of Counsel, ad∣dresses himself to a Witch, to call up the Spirit of Samuel; and the Spectrum which appeared (by means of her Charms) foretels him of the Misfortune he should meet with the next Morning, 1 Sam. 28.7, &c. This was in Anno 2944. The Armies being almost in sight of one another, David and his Men, on the Mistrust which the other Philistins conceived at him, are sent away by Achish, 1 Sam. 29.1, &c. But whilst Ziklag was burnt and plunder'd by the Amalekites, who had carried away the Women and Children Cap∣tives, David in this sorrowful Accident pursues the Amalekites, overtakes them in disorder, and recovers the Persons and the Booty which they had brought away from Ziklag. He equally divides the Booty amongst the People, and returns to Ziklag, and sends Presents to his Friends in Israel, 1 Sam. 21.1, &c. In the mean time the Battel is given between the Philistins and Israelites; these last being beaten, Saul falls on his Sword; his 3 Sons, Jonatham, Abinadab, and Malchi∣shuah, are killed, and their Bodies with their Fathers ignominiously hang'd on the Wall of Bethshan, whence the Inhabitants of Jabesh carry them off in the Night, to the end they might have an honourable Burial, 1 Sam. 31.11. The News of this is brought to David, 2 days after his return to Ziklag, and 3 days after the Battel: He put the Messenger to death, who vaunted of his having fallen upon Saul, altho' at his Re∣quest

to hasten his Death; and utters a Funeral Elegy on this occasion, 2 Sam. 1.1, &c.

We have represented all this at large, to shew how much those misreckon themselves, who allow only 2 years to the Reign of Saul, seeing all the things mentioned do require a longer term. He may indeed have absolutely Reigned but 2 years after the death of Sa∣muel, who retain'd the dignity of a Judge all the time of his life; or that he did not Govern properly, but only the two first years, after which he was rejected of GOD, and Samuel saw him no more; but 'tis certain, many years past more since his Anointing by Samuel till his Death, of which here is an unquestionable proof. David was 30 years old when he began to Reign, and Reign'd 40, 2 Sam. 5.4. and the 2d of Saul was spending, or spent, 1 Sam. 13.1. when David was Anointed by Samuel, being the youngest of his Brethren, 1 Sam. 16.13. And when Goliah was killed, David was then but a youth; on which account also Saul durst not hope for good success in this Duel; Goliah himself likewise dispising him for this reason, 1 Sam. 17.33, 42. So that in the time of this Com∣bat he must be above 22 years old; whence it evidently follows, we may reckon 10 years from the Anointing of Saul to his death; so that he Reigned at least 2 years as legiti∣mate King, the 6 following in the unjust prosecution of David till the death of Sa∣muel, and the two last to his death. And as Samuel could have no less than sixty years, when being old the People demanded a King of him, 1 Sam. 8.1, 5. so 'tis easie to conceive he was at the age of 34 years when he began to Judge the people after the Death of Eli, and thus more than 60 years when the people required of him a King, because he was said to be then old: So that he judged above the space of 30 years, and retained still the Dig∣nity 8 years from Saul's Anointing, and that dying aged 72 years, Saul survived him by 2, which makes up 40 years, assigned joyntly to Samuel and Saul, Acts 13.20.

Saul dying, David comes to the Crown in the year 2944, being 8 years after the death of Sampson, 40 years after that of Eli, and 436 after the Israelites Exit; for parting from Ziklag he comes into Hebron, where those of Judah Anoint him, and acknowledge him for their King. Abner sets up Ishbosheth, Saul's Son, against him, who having already Reigned 2 years over the other Tribes, made his Troops to advance under the Conduct of Abner against those of David, led on by Joab, near Gabaon, where Abner is worsted, and loses Hazael his Brother, 2 Sam. 21.1, &c.

This War continued still above 5 years, until Abner grew offended by Ishbosheth, quit∣ted his Interests and Party, sends Michal to David, he disposes the other Tribes to receive him, and comes to inform David of this at Hebron, where he is well received; but having forsaken the King, Joab and Abishai his Bro∣ther basely kill him; whereat David was greatly offended, 2 Sam. 3.1, &c. A while after Ishbosheth is Assassinated by two of his own Captains, Rechab and Bahana, who bring his Head to David, but instead of thanking them for their Present, caused them to be put to death as Vile Fellows, 2 Sam. 4.1, &c. Then the other Tribes resolve to acknowledge David, and hereupon wait on him at Hebron, where he had already Reigned over Judah 7 years and an half; whence he departs to seize on the Fort of Sion, and to drive the Jehusites from Jerusalem. There Hiram King of Tyre sends to him Ambassadors and Cedar-Wood, with Workmen to build his Court, 2 Sam. 5.1, &c. This was in Anno Mundi 2950.

In the 9th year of his Reign he obtains 2 notable Victories over the Philistins, the first in Bahal-Peratsim, and the 2d in a place where there were a great many Mulberry-Trees, 2 Sam. 1.17, &c. And it seems 'twas on this occasion that 3 of Davids Valiant Men went to Bethlehem for Water for him through the midst of the Enemies Forces, 2 Sam. 23.15, 16, 17. After these Victories he again espouseth more Wives, 2 Sam. 5.13▪ and trans∣ports the Ark from Kriathjearim, called Bahale of Judah, designing to settle it in Sion; but being affrighted by the death of Uzzah, he durst not receive it in within his own House, till having known that Obed Edom▪ was blest by it, to whose house he had sent it; he made it be brought thence into Sion with great solemnity, his Wife Michal blaming him for having Danced publickly before it: he is greatly offended with her Re∣proof, 2 Sam. 6.1, &c. He afterwards designs the building of the Temple, which GOD by the Prophet Nathan orders him to remit to his Successor, 2 Sam. 7.1, &c. yet he then prepared, or Divinely received the Model

of it; of which see 1 Chron. 28.11, &c.

He beats again the Philistines, and wins them the Fort of Metheg-amma, 2 Sam. 8.1. subjugates the Moabites; and 'twas in this Expedition that Benaja slew two of the most Mighty Men amongst them, and a Lion in a Snowy day, 2 Sam. 23.30. He defeats Hadad∣ezer King of Zobah, subdues the Syrians, 2 Sam. 8.3, &c. and overcomes the Idumaeans, 2 Sam. 8.12, 13, 14. Then he took Mephi∣bosheth the Son of Jonathan home to him, (who was but 5 years old when his Father died, 2 Sam. 4.4.) and committed the care of his Lands to Ziba, 2 Sam. 9.1, &c. which seems not to have hapned till about the 15th of David's Reign, seeing Mephibosheth had then a Son named Micah, 2 Sam. 9.12.

It's not certain, whether the War against the Ammonites preceded that which David had against the Syrians; yet it seems the one had great Coherence with the other, of which you may see the occasion in David's Embassy violated by Haman, 2 Sam. 10.1, &c. and the end of it, by taking of Rabba, 2 Sam. 12.28, &c.

Whilst Joab carried on the Siege, David commits Adultery with Bathsheba the Wife of Uriah, and procured secretly by Joab her Husbands death at the Siege of Rabba, 2 Sam. 11.1, &c. Nathan is sent to David, to reprehend him for this Double Crime, and the Child born in Adultery died at the end of 7 days, 2 Sam. 12.1, &c. But in the year following, which may be was the 17th of David, was born of her Solomon, 2 Sam. 12.24, &c. And hence it appears that Solo∣mon was the eldest of all those which she had since her Marriage with David, altho Sham∣muah, or Shimha, and Shobab, and Nathan be named before him, 2 Sam. 5.14. and 1 Chron. 3.5. The Famine which the Country suffer'd, and the Expiation made by the Crucifixion of Saul's 7 Sons, at the instance of the Gibeonites, 2 Sam. 21.1, &c. is com∣monly referred to the 20th year of David's Reign. New Wars against the Philistines de∣scribed, 2 Sam. 21.15, &c.

Being delivered from all Enemies round about him, he sings to GOD the Canticle which we read 2 Sam. 22.1, &c. and Psalm 18.1, &c. But being puft up by all these Prosperities, he causes the People to be num∣bred, altho Joab dissuaded him from it; and was reduced (by the Ministry of Gad) to one of these 3 points, viz. to suffer from GOD either War, Plague, or Famine, 2 Sam. 24.1, &c.

A while after followed the Disorders of his House: Ammon (one of his Sons) violates Tha∣mar; but Absalom her own Brother reveng'd himself 2 years after, by killing him, and flies into Geshur, where he remains 3 years; at the end of which (by the address of Joab, and the Intercession of a Tekoite) he comes again to Jerusalem, where he lives two years without seeing his Father; but at length is reconciled publickly, 2 Sam. 1.13, 14. From that time he began to make Cabals, and to aspire to the Crown, till at length he openly Conspired against his Father, and forceth him to fly from Jerusalem, and to pass over Jordan. This hapned at the end of 40 years, that is, either after the Election of Saul, or since the Birth of Absalom, 2 Sam. 15.1.7, &c. In this flight Zeba obtain'd by Calumny the confiscation of Mephibosheth's Estate: Shimei Curses David; Cushai pretends to joyn him∣self to Absalom, and dissipates the Counsel of Achitophel; who hence perceiving that Absalom's Enterprize would have ill success, makes an end of himself. The Battle was given between David's and Absalom's Forces, the latter of which is beaten, and he flying through a Forest, remains hanged by the Hair of his Head between the Branches of an Oak, where he was slain: David bears his Death with great impatience; but at length shews himself to the people, and is solemnly brought into Jerusalem, 2 Sam. Chap. 16, 17, 18, 19.

Sheba the Son of Bicri takes occasion from some Misintelligence which hapned amongst the Tribes, on the account of David's Resti∣tution, to raise a new Faction against him; but Joab besieged him in the City of Abel, and had his head given him, having first Assassinated Amasa, whom David seemed to have preferred before him, 2 Sam. 20.1, &c. After these Civil and Domestick Broils, David obtaining some Rest in the last years of his Reign and Life, applies himself entirely to the establishment of good Order in the Ser∣vice of GOD, as 'tis represented, 1 Chron. Chap. 23, 24, &c.

Being now grown in years, he Espous'd Abishag, to give him Warmth. Adonijah treads in Absalom's steps, and draws Joab and Abiathar to his party; but whilst he Feasted with his Conspirators, Nathan and Bathsheba, inform David of it, who on this occasion

makes Solomon to be Anointed King, which dissipated Adonijah's Faction, yet whom So∣lomon at first pardon'd, 1 Kings 1.1, &c.

David having given divers Orders to Solo∣mon, dies, after he had Reigned 40 years, 1 Kings 2.1, &c. and Solomon succeeds him, who Reigned as long. He immediately puts to death Adonijah, who had demanded Abi∣shag to Wife, deposes Abiathar from the Priesthood, which he transfers to Zadock of the Branch of Eleazer, and causes Joab to be slain at the Horns of the Altar, giving the charge of this to Benaja, 1 Kings 2.1. he also confines Shimei to Jerusalem, whom going out thence 3 years after (contrary to his Order) was also put to death, 2 Kings 2.36, &c. These things hapned about Anno Mundi 2984.

Having espous'd the Daughter of Pharaoh, obtain'd of GOD a singular Wisdom in, go∣verning of which he gave the first instance between 2 Harlots, and reduces the Officers of the Crown into great order, and the People live under his Conduct in abundance and great security, 1 Kings Chap. 3, & 4.

CHAP. VI. Of the Fifth Age, or Period of the World.

THe farther we go from the Creation of the World, the more perplexity we meet with in Holy Scripture, in adjusting the Ac∣counts of time; but this is in some part recompenced by the Light which on the con∣trary we have cleared in the greatest distance from the Writings of Profane Authors.

This Fifth Age of the World, begins at the Foundation of the Temple of Solomon, in the Year 2992; and ends at the Jewish Capti∣vity, in the Reign of King Cyrus, Anno Mundi 3468; which Period contains the space of 476 years.

The Temple was 7 years and an half in Building, and was Dedicated in the year 3001, which began the Fourth Millenary of the World. Solomon Reigned 40 years, and died in the year of the World 3029, being 975 years before the Birth of Jesus Christ. But it is incredible to think what a confusion in Chronology, is caused by the division of his Kingdom between the Kings of Judah and Israel, which happen'd after his Death. Even those that have taken most pains in this mat∣ter, have had much ado to reconcile the dif∣ficulties that here occur.

[In the Large Volumes of the History of the Bible, there comes in here a Double Table of the Kings of Judah and Israel, which can't be so brought into a Page in this small sized Volume, to which I refer the Curious; as also for the Table of the Kings of Judah, after the Ruin of Sama∣ria.]

Anno Mundi 2988. Solomon having treated with Hiram King of Tyre, for Materials for the Temple which he designed, began the Building in the 4th year of his Reign, and the 480th since the Israelites Exit out of Egypt, 1 Kings 6.1.

See the History of his Buildings, both Sacred and Civil, 1 Kings Chap. 6 and 7. The Temple finished at the end of 7 years, he makes the Dedication of it in the 11th year of his Reign, 1 Kings 7.37, 38. and 8.1, &c.

Having spent seven years in Building the Temple, he consumed 13 more in Building his House; and at the end of these 20 years, which is in the 24th of his Reign, GOD appeared to him again with Promises and Threats, 1 Kings 9.1, 10. Of his other Buildings, Navigations into Ophir, the Visit he received from the Queen of Sheba, see 1 Kings 9.15, &c. and 10.1, &c. Also his strange and numerous Wives, having 700 that were Princesses, besides 300 that were Concubines; how towards the Declension of his Life he turned away his Heart after o∣ther Gods, to connive (at least at their Worship) and tolerate them against his duty. See 1 Kings 11.1, &c. GOD denounces to him, whether immediately in a Dream, or Vision, or by the Prophet Ahijah, who then flourish'd, the tearing away of his Kingdom, and raising up Enemies to him, in the person of Hadad the Idumaean, in Rezon the Syrean, and in Jeroboam the Ephramite, to whom Ahijah foretold, he should be King of ten

Tribes, 1 Kings 11.9, &c. In fine, He dies, having Reigned 40 years, and having lived 62 or 63, leaving his Crown to Rehoboam his Son, aged 41; which shews, that what he said in his Prayer, 1 Kings 3.7. concerned the confession of his incapacity, and not his want of years.

Rehoboam, for following the Counsel of the youngest, saw himself abandoned by the 10 Tribes, who rebelled against him, and set up Jeroboam the Son of Nebat for their King, 1 Kings 12.1, &c. From that time was made a distinction between the Kings and Kingdom of Judah, and those of Israel; and some will have this to be the beginning of the 390 mystical Days in Ezek. 4.4. which is to say, of 390 years, during which GOD bore with the Sins of this people.

Rehoboam, whom Solomon had of an Am∣monite Woman, 1 Kings 14.22. not being able either to retain by Love or Force the 10 Tribes Obedience to him, and Adoram whom he had sent to them having been Stoned, 1 Kings 12.16, &c. and GOD him∣self having forbidden him by the Prophet Shemaiah, and those of Judah and Benjamin, to take up Arms on this account against those of Israel, 1 Kings 12.22, &c. underwent another vexation 5 years after, by means of Shishack King of Egypt, 1 Kings 14.25.

Jeroboam, who began with him in Israel, to settle himself in this new Authority, did set up an Idolatrous and vicious Worship, 1 Kings 12.26, &c▪ Zadoc having exercised the Office of High Priest under Solomon, after the deposing of Abiathar, transmits it to his Son Ahimaha's, who Officiated in the time of Rehoboam, 1 Chron. 6.8, 53. An anonimous Prophet came to Bethel, to reprehend Jero∣boam, and to foretel, that Josias would one day overthrow the Altar, which he came now from setting up; but he himself having not followed GOD's Order, was kill'd by a Lion, 1 Kings 13.1, &c.

Jeroboam having by his Wife (disguis'd) consulted Ahijah the Prophet on his Sons sick∣ness, is severely censured with the Prediction of the entire ruin of his House, and the ap∣proaching death of his sick Son, 1 Kings 14.1, &c.

Rehoboam dies Anno 3046, having Reigned 17 years, and lived 58, 1 Kings 14.21. leaving Abigam (called also Abiah) his Son Heir of his Crown of Judah, and Quarrels against Jeroboam King of Israel, in the beginning of the 18th year of his Usurpation. But Abijam Reigned only 3 years, as little religious and happy as his Father, 1 Kings 15.1, &c. (In his time flourish'd the Prophet Iddo, the Compiler of this History, 2 Chron. 12.15.) yet GOD gave him some advantagi∣ous Successes against Jeroboam, 2 Chron. 13.1, &c.

Anno Mundi 3049. To Abijam succeeds his Son Asa, who comes to the Crown at the 20th year of the expiration of Jeroboam, a Prince of great Piety, and who (without concerning himself at his Grandmother Ma∣haca, the Daughter of Abiscalom of Gibeah) purged the Land of Idols and filthiness, 1 Kings 15.2, 9, &c.

In the beginning of Asa's 2d year, Nadab the Son of Jeroboam, having Reigned over Israel 22 years, 1 Kings 14.28. succeeds his Father; but scarce had he began to enter into the 2d year of his Reign, but Bahasca, or Baasha, King of Israel, of the Tribe of Issachar, Conspired against him at the Siege of Gibbethon, and killed him before the 3d year of Asa was ended, and extirminated Jeroboam's whole House, 1 Kings 15.25, &c.

This Baasha also undertook a War against Asa, and designed to build Ramah, to serve him as a Fort against Judah: But Asa gives him so great a diversion by Benhadad King of Assyria, that he of all Israel•• was constrained to lay aside his design, 1 Kings 15.16, &c. Therefore this proceeding of Asa was not ap∣proved of from Heaven; for GOD reprehend∣ed him for it by the Prophet Hanani, 2 Chron. 16.7, &c.

Anno Mundi 3090. Asa Reigned 41 years and died, being only ill of his Feet, for having put greater confidence in Physicians than in GOD, 1 Kings 15.10, 23. under Asa and Abijam his Father; the High Priesthood was administred by Azariah the Son of Ahi∣maaz, Radocks Grandson, and perhaps by Johanan his Son, 1 Chron. 6.9. In the mean time Baasha continuing in the Sin of Jero∣boam, was reprehended by Jehu Son of Ha∣nani the Prophet, and threatned with the like punishment, and having Reigned 23 years, died in the beginning of the 24th, 1 Kings 15.33. leaving his Crown to his Son Elah, in the 26th year of Asa, 1 Kings 16.8 whence it appears that Asa's 36th year, in which he was attacked by Baasha, 2 Chron. 16.1. is not to be understood of the Reign of Asa, in the 26th of which Baasha died;

but of the Kingdom of Asa, which had taken its birth in the separation of the Tribes, since which he found these 36 years: For Reho∣boam had Reigned 17, and Ahijam 3, and Asa 15 or 16, when Baasha openly invaded him. Now it hapned the same to Elah, as to Nadab the Son of Jeroboam; for at the entrance of the 2d year of his Reign, in the 27th of Ahab's, Zimri killed him at Tirza, and afterwards put to death all those of his House, and got into his place, 1 Kings 16.1, 2, &c. But Zimri was not King above 7 days; for Omri (General of the Army, with which he besieg'd Gibbethon) having heard of Zimri's Fact, raised the Siege, sat down before Tirza; which Zimri seeing was taken, entred into the Royal Palaco, and burnt himself in it, that he might not fall alive into Omri's hands, 1 Kings 16.15, &c.

After the Death of Zimri, altho Omri had already been declared King by all the Army, yet there were formed two parties amongst the People, one for Tibni Son of Ginah, and the other for Omri; but this latter prevailing, assured himself of the Crown by the death of his Competitor. This Contest having lasted about 4 years, he began to Reign absolutely without any Controuler: As the 33th year of Asa ended, and continued 8 years; having transferr'd the Royal Seat from Tirzah to Samaria, which he built; and having bought the Ground of Shemer, who was Lord thereof: So that the 12 years that are attributed to him must be reckoned not from the death of Tibni, but from that of Elah, for the revenge of which he had been Tumultuously declared King, 1 Kings 16.15, &c. He left Ahab his Son Successor to the Crown of Israel in the 38th year of Ahab. He was a wicked Prince, doing great mischief, 1 Kings 16.29, &c. Asa having Reigned 41 years, Jehoshaphat his Son suc∣ceeded him; an Imitator of his Father's Piety and Vertue. He came to the Crown at 35 years of Age, and Reigned 25 years, 1 Kings 22.42. There's some cause to suspect that Azariah, who exercised the High Priest∣hood under Jehoshaphat, 2 Chron. 19.11. is the same as Johanan, 1 Chron. 6.9. and that he continued in this Office (under the Name of Jehojada) in the time of Joash. Jeh••shaphat strengthens himself against Israel, seeks the Baalites to extirminate them, and from the 3d year of his Reign procures by his Officers, that the People be well instructed in the Law, 1 Chron. 17.1, &c.

Anno Mundi 3095. 'Tis thought that in the 10th year of Jehoshaphat, and the 14th of Ahab, began the Famine foretold by the Prophet Eli, which lasted 3 years and a half, during which GOD several ways provided for the Prophet's Nourishment, 1 Kings 17.1. This term expiring, Elijah presents himself to Ahab, evidently verifies that the LORD is the true GOD; causes the 450 Prophets of Baal to be put to death, and obtains Rain for the Land, 1 Kings 18.1, &c. This falls in with the 14th year of Jehoshaphat. After this Execution, Elijah gets away to avoid the Fury of Jezabel the Wife of Ahab, 1 Kings 19.1, &c. Benhadad King of Syria, ima∣gining, that the Famine of the Israelites had much weakned them, therefore hoped to make Asa and his Kingdom Tributaries to him; but he is twice defeated and beaten, losing in the last Battel 100000 Foot, besides 27000 who perished under the Walls of Aphek where they had retired; he is con∣strain'd himself to surrender to Ahab, who spares him, and treats an Alliance with him, which the LORD reproves by a Prophet, 1 Kings 2.1, &c. These Prosperities of Ahab against the Syrians, were immediately fol∣lowed by the Violence executed against Naboth for his Vineyard, 1 Kings 21.1, &c. Jehosha∣phat enjoying particular Blessings, contracted an unfortunate Alliance with Ahab, and so order'd it, that his Son Joram espoused Athaliah Daughter of Ahab, 2 Kings 8.16. and 2 Chron. 18.1. and in the 17th year of his Reign, he associated to the Crown his Son Joram, Ahab's Son-in-Law.

Anno Mundi 3106. In the same year Jehoshaphat comes (in pursuance of this Alli∣ance) to Visit Ahab, who made him great Feasts, and engaged him with him in the War against the Syrians, to have Ramoth of Gilead, which they should have surren∣dred by virtue of a Treaty made with Ben∣hadad 3 years past. In this Combat Jeho∣shaphat was in great danger, and Ahab was there killed (according to Michaiah's Predi∣ction) in the 2d year of his Reign. See 2 Kings 8.28. and 9.1. and 2 Chron. 18.2, &c. Jehoshaphat being returned safe from so great a danger, is censured by Hanani the Prophet, for having joyn'd his Arms with Ahab's, and establishes Judges for Civil and E••clesiastical Affairs, 2 Chron. 9.1, &c. But he saw himself

in the mean time attacked by the Moabites and Ammonites, over whom GOD gave him the Victory by their own Arms, they not being obliged to draw their Swords, 2 Chron. 2.1, &c.

After Ahab's death, the Moabites Revolt; Ahaziah his Son and Successor having had a great Fall, consults Baalzebub, and would have Elijah brought to him; who at the second Summons comes to him, and foretels him he would be never cured of his Wound, 2 Kings 1.1, &c. He would have had Jeho∣shaphat been Partners with him in the Trade to Tarsis: This Project did not succeed, for Jehoshaphat (who seemed at first inclinable to this Navigation, for which he was reprehended by the Prophet Eliazar, who denounced to him the Shipwreck of his Vessel, 2 Chron. 20.35.) at last refused it, 1 Kings 22.50. Thus died Ahaziah without Children in the 2d year of his Reign, which was the 18th of Jehoshaphat, and the 2d of the first Assump∣tion of this good Princes Son Joram to the Crown, 2 Kings 1.17. At the same time Elijah was taken taken up into Heaven in a fiery Chariot, leaving Elisha the Heir of his Cloak and Office, 2 Kings 2.1, &c. having first written for King Joram, Jehoshaphat's Son, what concerned him. Elisha works ex∣traordinary things, of which see 2 Kings 4.1, &c.

Joram, the Brother of Ahaziah, and Ahab's Son, succeeds him the 18th year of Jehoshaphat, and Reigned 12 years. Jeho∣shaphat and the King of Edom joyn together, in the 18th year of Jehoshaphat, and Reigned 12 years. Also Jehoshaphat and the King of Edom joyn together against the Moabites, who were Revolted since Ahab's death. Elisha, who was in this Expedition, obtains Water for the Army, and the Moabites are defeated, and their King reduced to such extremties in his Capital City, that for despair he Sa∣crificed his own Son on the Walls, 2 Kings 3.1, &c.

Anno Mundi, 3112. Jehoshaphat in the 22th year of his Reign, which was the 5th of Joram King of Israel, renewed the Title of King to his Son Joram, aged 32 years, with some enlargments of Authority, greater than that he conferred on him 5 years before, in the 17th year of his Reign, 2 Kings 1.17. and thence should be taken the term of 8 years, which the Scripture assigns him, 2 Kings 8.17. and 2 Chron. 21.5. seeing the first of these 8 years falls with the 5th of Joram, 2 Kings 8.16. which was also the 22th of Jehoshaphat, 2 Kings 3.1. And therefore 'tis said, 2 Chron. 21.3. that Jehoshaphat had given the Kingdom to Joram, because he was the eldest, having made other Donations to his youngest.

Anno Mundi 3115. Jehoshaphat in the 25th year of his Reign, and in the 4th of this Royal Dignity, conferr'd on his Son Joram, died aged 60 years, 1 Kings 22.24. much about the time the Shunamite Woman was raised to Life by Elis••••, 2 Kings 4.16. It was also in ••his time that the 7 years Famine began, predicted by him, 2 Kings 4.38. and 8.1, 2, 3, &c. Joram Reigned alone (after the death of Jehoshaphat) 4 years, or there∣abouts. He followed the Courses of the House of Ahab; put to death all his 6 Bre∣thren, with some of the Chief of Israel, and advanced Idolatry as much as he could: He saw the Revolt of the Idumaeans, and of Libna; he suffered the Philistins and Ara∣bians to pillage his Treasures, and to lead his Wives and Children into Captivity; and having been sick for 2 years, he died aged 40 years (without being lamented by any one) of a filthy and languishing Distemper, according to all which was denounced to him in the Writing of Elijah, 2 Chron. 21.1, &c. The 8 years Reign which the Scripture gives him, were not compleat; for the 1st concurring with the 5th of Joram King of Israel, the 8th year should come in with the 12th, with which is also adjusted the beginning of Ahaziah in Judah, 2 Kings 8.16, 25. And as to what is said, That Ahaziah began to Reign in the 11th year of Joram the Son of Ahab, 2 Kings 9.27. this must be under∣stood of the 11th year expiring, or expired; it being moreover easily conceived, That the 1st year of Joram in Judah, preceeded by some Months the 5th of Joram in Israel; and thus he must have began his 8th and last year a little before the 12th of this Prince; whence 'tis that the Scriprure puts the 1st year of Ahaziah in Judah, beginning at the end of the 11th year, and concurring with the 12th of Joram King of Israel, in the Passages above-cited.

During the Reign of the 2 Jorams, Naa∣man was sent into Israel by the King of Assyria, to be cleansed of his Leprosie, 1. King 5.1, &c. The Designs of the Syrians are discovered to the King of Israel by Elisha▪

and those whom the King of Assyria had sent, to seize on him at Dothan, are conducted by him to Samaria, 2 Kings 6.8, &c. A while after Benhadad besieges Samaria, which other∣wise had suffered a long time under a grie∣vous Famine; but a panick Fear made him raise the Siege on a sudden, whereby the City was furnished with supplies, according as Elisha had Prophecied, 2 Kings 6.24. It was after this Siege, so miraculously raised, that hapned the things recited touching Benhadad's Sickness, and the sending of Hazael to Elisha, to consult him, which was followed by his death; after which Hazael becomes King of Syria, 2 Kings 8.7, &c.

Licurgus (the famous Legislator amongst the Lacedemonians) flourished about this time.

Anno Mundi 3119. Joram King of Judah being dead at the entrance into his 8th year, the 4th after the death of his Father Jeho∣shaphat, and at the beginning of the 12th and last of Joram King of Israel, Ahaziah his Son (sometimes called Ochozias, and Jeho∣ahaz) succeeds him, aged 22 years, 2 Kings 8.24, 25, 26. and to what is said to his having been then 42 years, those who would cut the Knot, think that in the Hebrew Text, by the Ignorance of Transcribers, are here joyned to the 2 Numerical Letters Mem and Beth, which stand for 42, instead of Caph and Beth, which stand for 22; but this Conjecture seems to others the less justifiable, in that this Number is exprest at length in the Original Hebrew, and is not there denoted by Cyphers; and therefore those that are for untying it, think, that in the last place is not mark'd the age of Ahaziah, but the term which past since the Crown of Israel was in the House of Ahab, and the King's Seat at Samaria.

Ahaziah following the Train of the House of Ahab, and of which he was by Athaliah his Mother, the Daughter of Ahab and Jezabel, the Grandchild of Omri, joyn'd himself to Joram his Unkle, against Hazael King of Assyria, who seemed to design the re-taking of Ramoth-Gilead, which Ahab had heretofore recovered with the price of his Life: But Joram in some Rencounter was Wounded by the Assyrians, and carried to Jezreel for his Cure, 2 Kings 8.27. whilst he was under the Physicians hands, and that Ahaziah King of Judah came to Visit him, Elisha sends one of his Disciples to Ramoth-Gilead, to Anoint Jehu King; w••o parts the next Morning with the other Officers of the Army, Conspirators with him, to come to Jezreel: Joram and Ahaziah come to meet him; the first is immediately killed and thrown into Naboth's Field, the second mortal∣ly wounded, and is thence carried to Jerusa∣lem, and there buried, 2 Kings 9.1, &c. Thus died Joram King of Israel in the 12th year of his Reign, and Ahaziah his Nephew, King of Judah in his first year.

Jehu comes to Jezreel, causes Jezabel to be thrown out of the Windows, who is eaten with Dogs, 2 Kings 9.30. and causes the Heads of 70 of Ahab's Sons to be brought him from Samaria, whereunto he bends his course, and finds in the way the chief of Judah and Ahaziah's Kindred, to the number of 42 Men, and puts them all to the Sword. Being arrived at Samaria, he convocates the Servants of Baal in the Temple of the Idol, and there causes them to be destroyed, 2 Kings 10.1, &c. his Reign was long enough, to wit, 28 years, 2 Kings 10.36. but he suffered many vexations from the Syrians, who re-took Ramoth-Gilead, and possest much of the Country, 2 Kings 10.32, 33.

Anno Mundi 3120. Athaliah, the Mother of Ahaziah, seeing her Son dead, Tyranni∣cally seizes on the Soveraign Authority; and to confirm herself in her Usurpation, put to death all she could find in Jerusalem of the Blood••Royal: But Jehoash, the Son of Aha∣ziah, was pluckt out of the Paws of the Lioness by the dexterity of Jehoshebah, the Daughter of King Joram, the Consanguin-Sister; but not a German of Ahaziah, Aunt to Joash, and Wife of Jehojada the High Priest, 2 King. 11.1, &c. some think (and there's probability of it) that this Jehojada is the same which is called Jehonan, amongst the Descendents of Zudock, 1 Chron. 6.9, 10. and he seems to be called thus distinctly with these three Names, to wit, Jehonan, Amaziah, and Jehojada.

Anno Mundi 3126. During 6 years Joash remains hid in the Temple, whilst that Atha∣liah sways the Scepter; but in the 7th year she is killed, and Joash is declared King of Israel, 2 Kings 11.1, &c. The Reign of Joash was of 40 years; and as long as Jehojada lived, he took particular care of the Service of GOD, 2 Kings 12.1, &c. and 2 Chron. 24.1, As the 22th year of Jeha King of Israel ended with his Life, so Jehoahash his Son

succeeded him in the 22th year of Joash, and Reigned over Israel 17 years, 2 Kings 13.1.

After the death of Jehoida, aged 130 years, Jehoash grew loose even to the suffering the re-establishment of Idolatry, and to cause to be Stoned Zacharias the Son of Jehojada (named also Johanan, 1 Chron. 6.9. and Azariah, 2 Chron. 19.11. and Barachias, Matth. 23.35.) between the Temple and the Altar, 2 Chron. 24.15, &c. But for this he did not go long unpunished; for having redeemed himself of Hazael King of Syria, by all the Treasures of his Fathers, 2 Kings. 12.17, &c. a small Troop of Assyrians entred into Judea, defeated his great Army, and carried away much Booty. The Affairs of Jehoash proceeded no better in Israel; but 2 years before his death, he associates to the Crown his Son Joash, of the same Name as the King of Judah, in the 37th year of this Prince; which Joash Reigned in Israel 16 years, 2 Kings 13.1, &c. the 2 first of which preceeded the death of his Father, and the second concurr'd with the last of Joash King of Judah, who was killed by his own Servants, Leagued against him, 2 Kings 12.20. and 2 Chron. 24.25, &c.

Anno Mundi 3165. Amaziah of 25 years of age, succeeds in the Kingdom of Judah, in the 2d year of Joash King of Israel, and Reigned commendably 29 years; and as soon as ever his Authority was confirmed, he put to death those who had slain his Father, 2 Kings 14.1, &c.

Joash was a great Deliverer in Israel; he Visits Elisha on his Death-Bed, who foretels his happy Successes against the Syrians, and he recovers from Benhadad the Son of Hazael King of Assyria, all the places he was possest of in Israel, 2 Kings 13.15, &c.

Amaziah had likewise good success over the Idumeans, against which he went out with a strong Army consisting of 100000 Israelites, which he had taken into pay; but having disbanded them by the Advertisement of an Anonymous Prophet, they made a great disorder in the Frontier Towns of his King∣dom, and carried away much Booty; yet with his own single Troops he killed 10000 Idumeans, and having taken 10000 others Prisoners, his Souldiers precipitated them from the top of a Rock; herein using his Victory ill, that having taken the Idumeans Idols, he fell down before them, 2 Kings 14.7. and more at length, 2 Chron. 25.5, &c. puft up with this Victory, and vext with the Disorders which the Israelites disbanded from his Army made on his Fronntiers, he sent a Cartel of defiance to Joash King of Israel, who not being able to dissuade him from this War, comes out to meet him with his Forces at Bethshemesh, he overthrows his Army, takes him Prisoner, enters Victoriously into Jeru∣salem, causes a great Tract of the Wall to be taken down, and carries thence all the Trea∣sures, 2 Kings 14.8, &c. 2 Chron. 25.17, &c. This hapned towards the end of the Reign and Life of Joash, whom Amaziah survived by 15 years, 2 Kings 14.17. and 2 Chron. 25.25. After Joash succeeds his Son Jeroboam, the 2d of the Name, in the 15th year of Amaziah; and Reigned 41 years, 2 Kings 14.21.

About this time flourished the Prophet Jonah, who foretold Jeroboam the Victories which he won over the Assyrians, 2 King. 14.25. and was sent afterwards to Nineveh, Jonah 1.1, &c.

Amaziah died 15 years after Jonah, and at∣tempting to save himself out of Jerusalem from a Conspiracy which was formed against him, he was pursued to Lachish, and there killed, 2 Kings 14.19, 20.

Anno Mundi 3194. Azariah, named also Osias, or Uzziah, his Son, succeeds him in the Throne of Israel, at the age of 16 years, and Reigned 52. Some pretend he Reigned a while with his Father, or for him, whilst he was a Fugitive at Lachish, which his few years will not admit. Others (on the contrary) pretend, there was an Inter-regnum of several years between him and his Father, (tho' the Scripture be silent of it, making him to suc∣ceed his Father) after a recital of his death, at the age of 16 years, 2 Kings 14.21. and 15.2. and 2 Chron. 26.11. The Opinion of the Inter-regnum is grounded on what we read in 2 Kings 15.1. But we may under∣stand it of the continuation of his Reign, which began immediately after his Father's death, in the 16th year of his Life; for he was in full Vigor, as well in respect of Body, as that of the State; and should we suppose that he was but 1 year old when his Father died, and that he was not declared Compe∣tent till the age of 16, falling in with the 27th of Jeroboam the 2d, this would make no Inter-regnum, because that in a successive Kingdom, as that of Judah, a King that is

a Minor, is however a King, so that still there will be only to reckon from the death of Amaziah to his, no more than 52 years, which the Scripture allots him.

The first Institution of the Olympiads, which serv'd as an Epoche to the Greeks, is referr'd to the 5th year of his Reign, which was the 20th of Joroboam. Under this King began Isaiah, Hosea, Joel and Amos to Pro∣phecy; he rebuilt Elah, 2 Kings 14.22. apply'd himself to Piety, thro' the wise Councel of the Prophet Zachary, beat the Philistins and Arabians, obliged the Ammo∣nites to acknowledge him, fortified Jerusalem, took great care of the Tillage of the Earth, and of the Militia, 2 Chro. 26.1, &c.

Jeroboam the 2d having Reigned 41 years, 15 of which falls in with the 1st of Osias, must have died in the 26th year; whence is gathered, there was an Inter-reguum in Israel, after the death of Jeroboam, seeing his Son Zachary (who succeeded him, and Reigned but 6 months, and in whom the Race of Jehu was extinct) did not come to the Crown till towards the end of the 38th year of Osias, 12 years after the death of his Father, and that Shallum killed him; and in the 39th year of the same Osias, Menahem having killed Shallum, possest the Throne of Israel, which he held 10 years, 2 Kings 15.18, &c. This Menahem exercised great Cruelties at Tipsah, and loaded the people with a great Tribute, to furnish him with the 1000 Ta∣lents of Silver, which he was to pay to Pull, King of Assyria, 2 Kings 15.16, &c.

During these Revolutions in the Kingdom of Israel, Osias having undertaken to offer Incense in the Temple, notwithstanding the Remonstrances and Oppositions of Azariah the High Priest, is struck from Heaven with a Leprosie, and obliged to live apart accord∣ing to the Law; so that he remained a Re∣cluse the rest of his Life, which hapned (ac∣cording to the Opinion of several) 7 years before his death, during which his Son Jotham administred the Affairs of the Kingdom, 2 Kings 15.5. and 2 Chron. 26.16, &c. This zealous Priest seems to have been the Son of Johanan, 1 Chron. 6.10. and thus that of Jehoiada (who was the same, and the Brother of Zachary) who having succeeded his Father Jehoiada in the High Priesthood, was Stoned between the Temple and the Altar, under King Joash, by his Order, and towards the end of his Reign, 2 Chron. 24.20, &c.

Menahem being dead at Samaria, his Son Pekahia succeeds him in the 50th year of Osias, and governs but two years, being kill'd by Pekah the Son of Remalia, 2 Kings 15.26, 27.

Thus died Osias, having Reigned 52 years in Judah, and seen six Kings succeed in the Kingdom of Israel with great confusion. Now, because 'twas from the beginning of the 52d year of Osias, that Pekah the Son of Remaliah began to Reign, and Reigned 20; the Scripture makes the first year o•• Jotham, the Son of Osias, (Reigning in Judah) to concur with the 2d of Pekah in Israel, 2 Kings 15.32.

Anno Mundi 3245. Jotham was a wise and pious Prince, who succeeded his Father at the Age of 25 years, and Reigned 16 years, 2 Kings 15.32, &c. and 2 Chron. 27.1, &c. and in that there is mention of the 20th year of Jotham, 2 Kings 15.30. 'Tis not to say that Jotham Reigned 20 years alone, but either to declare, that Pekah was slain 20 years after Jotham came to the Crown, or that Jotham before he Reigned alone, which he did for 16 years together, after the death of his Father, had yet exercised the Office of a Regent, and King some years before, during his Father's Confinement. Under him Micah began to Prophesie, and Obadiah was contemporary with him; and the City of Rome was built at the same time. Touching the Buildings and Victories of Jo∣tham, see 2 Chron. 27.3, &c. and of the Disgraces on the contrary which Pekah suf∣fered by the Arms of Tiglah-Pil••ser King of Assyria, 2 Kings 15.29.

Anno Mundi 3262. Ahaz, Son of Jotham, Aged 20 years, succeeded in the Throne of Judah, and Reigned 16 years; but ill, with Injustice and Impiety, 2 Kings 16.2. and 2 Chron. 28.1, &c.

Pekah King of Israel, who was now 17 years old when Ahaz came to the Crown, 2 Kings 16.2. joyn'd himself with Rezin King of Assyria to invade Judea, which design did not succeed, 2 Kings 16.5. yet did they great mischief, for Rezin took away Elath from the Kingdom of Judah, and made great spoils, and Pekah kill'd in one day 120000 Men of Judah, and his Soldiers in one course carried away 200000 Prisoners with great Booty; but Obed the Prophet made them be sent back free, and their Booty to be restored, 2 Chron. 28.5▪ &c▪

Ahaz obtained indeed some diversion by Tiglath-Pileser King of Assyria, but all this assistance turn'd to a Snare, and his Ruin; and he brought from Damascus, which Tig∣lath-Pileser had taken from Rezin, the mo∣del of an Altar which he caused to be set up in a place wherein stood that of the Lord, to which Uriah the High Priest (apparently the same which is named Amariah, 1 Chron. 6.11.) lent his hand, 2 Kings 16.10, &c.

Ahaz was also disturb'd by the Idumeans, and Philistins, who took away several places from him, 2 Chron. 28.17, 18. In fine, in the 4th year of Ahaz, 20 years after his Father Jotham was come to the Crown, Pekah having Reigned 20 years in Israel, died by the conspiracy of Hosea, who slew him to possess his place; but his Authority was de∣bated for the space of 8 years, till either thrust in by the Assyrians, or Victorious over the contrary party, he began to Reign without opposition in the 12th year of Ahaz, after which he still subsisted 9 years, and then Samaria was taken by Shalmaneser, and all the people transported thence, 2 Kings 15.27, 30. & 17.1. & 18.10.

Anno Mundi 3265. Ahaz being delivered from Pekah and Rezin, had some respite, and died in the 16th year of his Reign, when the 3d of Hosea ended, the last King of Israel, leaving his Crown to Ezechias, Aged 25 years, 2 Kings 18.1. so that his Father was not older than the Son but by 11 years; whence it's easie to gather, that Mahasei, killed by Zicri, may have been King Jothams Son, but not of Ahaz, who could not have in the 22th year of his life a Son capable to expose himself to the perils of War, and to be killed by an Enemy. In the time of this good and wise King, the Son of a wicked Father, and Father of a wicked Son, was Azariah High Priest, another than he who opposed King Osias, and the Son of Oriah, who obtained this Dignity under Ahaz, whom some pretend was named Amaria, 1 Chron. 6.11.

As soon as Ezechiah was come to the Crown of Judah, in which Government he continued 29 years, 2 Kings 18.2. of which the 2 first were also the 2 last of his Fathers Reign, as appears from the 2 Kings 17.1. &▪ 19.9, 10. he set in good order the Service of GOD, destroyed Idolatry, beats in pieces the Brazen Serpent, to which the people offer∣ed Incense, refused to pay Tribute to the Assyrians, smites the Philistins, and is prospe∣rous in all things, 2 Kings 18.4, &c. and 2 Chron. Chap. 29.30, 51.

Anno Mundi 3277. Whilst he busies him∣self in settling Religion, and preserving his Frontiers, in the 4th year of his Reign, with which concurr'd the 7th of Hosea, who having a design to revolt from Shalmaneser King of Assyria, whose Tributary he had been 3 years, he drew on him the Arms of this Monarch, who having held Samaria 3 years besieged, took it at the end of the 9th year of Hosea, and the 6th of Hezechia; then were the Israelites transported into Assyria, and other Colonies of People placed, and mixt in their Country, where they set up an Idolatrous Worship, 2 Kings 17.1, &c. and 18.9, 10. whence came the first rise of this Samaritanism so often mentioned in the Holy Scriptures and Jewish Writings with an Odious Character, yet it since received a new form, when Manasses by the favour of Samballet, one of Darius his great Men, built the Temple of Gerrizim, and drew many Schismatick Jews after him. And thus ended the Kingdom of Israel, having lasted 256 years since its separation from that of Judah.

About 8 years after Senacherib King of Assyria, and Salmonesers Successor being an∣gry at Ezekiah's refusing the Tribute, to which his Father Ahaz had submitted him∣self, 1 Kings 18.7. invades Judah; where∣upon Ezechiah treats with him, and redeems himself by a Fine of 300 Talents of Silver, and 30 of Gold; but Senacherib violating this agreement, sends Officers to Jerusalem, charged with Invectives against Ezechias, and Blasphemies against GOD, to oblige him to surrender himself, against which Eze∣chias opposes his Prayers and Faith in the words brought him by the Prophet Isaiah from the Lord, who dismays Senacherib by the expedition of Tirhaka King of Ethiopia against him, and by the Ministry of his Angel kills in one night 185000 Men in his Camp, which obliges him to retire in confusion into his Capital City Niniveh, where two of his Sons, Adrammelech and Shareezer killed him in the Temple of his Idols, and his Son Esarhaddon succeeded him, 2 Kings 19.1, &c. After this deliverance Ezechias falls sick, but is miraculously cured; with a Promise he should live 15 years longer, whereof he obtains an admi∣rable Token, by the retrogradation of the

Sun, on occasion of which Berodac, (or Mero∣dac-Balad••n King of Babylon, for he is called by both these Names in the Scripture) who is thought to have been the Son of Nabonassor, and the Grandfather, or great Grandfather of Nebuch••dnezar; sends to visit him by a solemn Embassy, as well to congratulate his Recovery, as to be perfectly Informed of this Miracle, 2 Kings 20.1, &c. Isaiah 39.1, &c. and 2 Chron. 31.31. and under Ezechia, Naham began also to Pro∣phesie.

Anno Mundi 3360. To Ezechias, at the end of 29 years, succeeded Manasses his Son at 12 years of Age, whose Reign was 55 years, and very unfortunate, he having faln into all sorts of Abominations and Impiety against GOD, and Cruelty against Men, 2 Kings 2.1, &c. and 2 Chron. 33.1, &c. 'Tis thought that amongst others he caused the Prophet Isaiah to be sawn asunder, unto which the Apostle alludes, Heb. 11.37. His Crimes did not escape unpunish'd; for he was taken Prisoner by the Enemy, and carried into Babylon laden with Chains, whereupon repenting and humbling himself before GOD, he was re-established in his first Dignity, 2 Chron 33.11, 12, 13, 14. and died, leaving his Son Amon his Heir at the Age of 22 years, not of his Repentance, but of his Crimes, which he exercised for 2 years to∣gether, at the end of which his own Servants conspired against him, and killed him, 2 Kings 21.19. and 2 Chron. 33.21, &c.

An. M. 3370. Josias the Son of Amon succeeds him at the Age of 8 years, and Reigend 31, with Piety and Vertue, having caused the Tem∣ple to be repaired, and the pure Service of GOD to be observed, renewed the Covenant of the Lord with the People, overthrows the High-places and Idols, profanes the Altar of Bethel, according as it was foretold, 1 Kings 13.2. and celebrated the Passover; The High Priest Hilkia much contributed to this holy Refor∣mation, which this good King undertook, as may be seen 2 Kings 22.4, &c. This Hilkia was the Son of Shallum, who after his Father Zadoc, and the death of Ahitub his Grand∣father, who was also called Azariah, in the time of Hezekias, had exercis'd the Priest∣hood in the corrupt and troublesom times of Manasses and Amon, 1 Chron. 6.11. Hilkia repairing the Temple finds the Original of Deuteronomy, the reading of which fills the King with Consternation, who sends Hilkia and others to consult the Prophetess Huldah, from whom they only brought a certain de∣nunciation of Evils, which were ready to fall on the Town and People, with this Conso∣lation for Josias, that GOD would take him away in peace before these things hapned, 2 Kings 22.8, &c. This good King intend∣ing in favour of the Assyrians, to oppose himself near Euphrates against Pharaoh Neco, was vanquished, and wounded to death, 2 Kings, Chap. 22, & 23.

Anno Mundi 3401. Under this King Zephaniah the Prophet appear'd••; but it seems Habaccuk preceded him. His Son Jehoahaz, a vicious Prince, succeeds him for 3 Months, Aged 23 years; for Pharaoh Neco dethroned him, and carried him Prisoner into Egypt, where he died, putting his Brother Eliakim, whom he named Jehoiakim, in his place, which he held for 11 years together; and certainly by the order of his Birth, the Kingdom was rather due to him than to Jehoahaz, who was younger than him by 2 years; but being older he was not wiser, 2 Kings 23.30, &c. so was his Reign unfor∣tunate, and his end Tragical. It appears from Jeremiah, Chap. 25.1, 2, 3. that the first year of Nebuchadnezars, falls in with the 4th of Jehoiakim, and the 23th of the predictions of the Prophet, beginning from the 13th of Josias.

From that time Nebuchadnezar continuing the War which his Father ••had with Egypt, began to become the Scourge, as well of that Country as of Judea; which was Feudatory since the death of Josias, and the Progresses of Nebuchadnezar were so quick on this side the Euphrates, that in a small time he dis∣possest Pharaoh of whatever he had con∣quered; so that Judea was submitted to him, and Jehoiakim forced to follow the Victorious party, and to pay to Nebuchad∣nezar the same Tributes, and make the same Acknowledgements, which he had hitherto done to the King of Egypt; but about 3 years after, this Prince (thro ill Counsel) revolts against Nebuchadnezar, and by this means in the 3d year, not absolutely of his Reign, but of his Reign as Vassal of Chal∣dea, he draws on him the Arms of Nebuchad∣nezar, and his Ruin; for after the wasting of the Country, by the Incursions of the Chaldeans, he was at length made his Pri∣soner, and laden with Chains, to be carried into Babylon, 2 Kings 24.1, &c. 2 Chron.

36.6. Dan. 1.1. But it seems he died in the way, and was cast into the Common-shoar, as Jeremiah had foretold, Jerem. 22.19. And then Daniel and his Companions were trans∣ported into Babylon, Dan. 1.3.

Anno Mundi 3405. To Jehoiakim, in whose Captivity and death began the 70th year, specified Jerem. 25.11. & 29.10. suc∣ceeded Jehoiakim his Son, who is also some∣times call'd Jechonias and Coniah: he was Aged 18 years, when he would have col∣lected the Wrecks of this Crown, and wore it but 3 Months, 2 Kings 24.8. His Father, to confirm it to his Posterity. had associated himself to the Throne, and made him be declared King with him, when he was but 8 years old, 2 Chron. 36.9. but he was 18 when his Father died; and the 18th year of his life, in which he began actually to Reign, and alone, concurr'd with the 8th of the Reign of Nebuchadnezar; who having conceived some ill suspicion of this young Prince, who was indeed viciously given, 2 Kings 24.9. returned to besiege Jerusalem, and Jehoiakim chose rather to surrender and submit himself to the discretion of the most powerful, than to stand out by resistance; so that then was made the first great Tran∣sportation of the Jews into Babylon, the prelude of which began 3 Months before in the carrying away of Daniel, and his Companions, 2 Kings 24.8, &c. Mat. 1.11. And thus is found (near the matter) the Account which we have denoted at the Head of this period of 482 years since the Foun∣dation of the Temple, to the end of the Cap∣tivity.

Nebuchadnezar substituted then to Jehoi∣akim, whom he carried away into Chaldea, with the principal Forces of Judea, (the Prophet Ezekiel was of the Company) his Unkle Mattania, Josias his 3d Son, and whom be named Zedekias, who was 21 years old when he came to the Crown, and wore it 11 years, 1 Kings 24.18. But having fal∣sified the Faith he had given to the King of Babylon, he drew his Indignation on him, so that in the 9th year of his Reign and continu'd Captivity, Jerusalem was besieged, reduced to great Extremities, and at length taken after a Siege of 18 Months, the be∣sieged being vexed with Famine and great Mortality in the 11th year of Zedekias, who was the last King of David's Race, •• Kings 25.3. Jerem. 39.3. &c. & 52.6. Jeremiah does himself represent how much he suffered during this Siege, Jerem. 37.12. 13, &c. & 36.6. as Ezekiel represented the horrors and sequels of it in Chaldea, Ezek. Chap. 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, &c. Zedekias seeing the City taken by the Enemies, would have esca∣ped by a private Gate with the rest of his Troops, and Chief Men of the Nation; but he was pursued by the Chaldeans, who took him, and led him to Riblah, which is thought to have been since called Antioch, where Nebuchadnezar expected the event of two important Sieges, to wit, that of Tyre and Jerusalem, and there was his Sentence given; his Children had their Throats cut in his sight, and all the Chief Men of Judah, (amongst which were also Skeraiah, Hilkiah's Grandchild, and Hazaria's Son, who had succeeded his Father in the High Priesthood, involv'd unquestionably in this Slaughter, having been of the Counsel of Zedekias; and afterwards he had his eyes put out, and was carried Prisoner into Babylon, where he died; Anno Mundi 3405. Then was the Temple burnt, and City dismantled and laid waste, the Sacred Vessels carried away, and most of the people which remained were transported, 1 Kings 25.4, &c. Jerem. 52.1, &c. All this happened at the expiration of the 18th year, and at the beginning of the 19th of Nebuchadnezar, Jerem. 52.12, 29. In the first Transportation with Jehoiakim, sometimes called Coniah (by Jeremiah) 3023 Jews were carried away into Babylon, and in this last (so greatly had the Miseries of the Siege consumed the rest) there were only found 832 in all, Jerem. 52.28, 29. Those who could remain in Judea, being of the meanest of the people, tarried behind, amongst whom Jeremiah was one, Jerem. 39.14. and 40.5, 6. were put by the Au∣thority of Nebuchadnezar under that of Gedaliah, Jerem. 40, 5, 8.11. But having been soon Assassinated at Mizpah, by Ismael, of the Royal Race, and his Accomplices, Jerem. 41.1, 2, 3. These sorrowful Remains were carried into Egypt, by Johanan and the other Officers with Jeremiah, against his will, and the endeavours he used to disswade them, and miserably perish'd, Jerem. Chap. 42, 43, 44. after they had, as 'tis thought, stoned the Prophet.

During all these sad times, and from the 13th of Josias, agreeing with the year of the World 3362. Jeremiah (the Son of Hil∣kiah,

not of the High Priest, who flourish'd under Josias, but of an ordinary Priest, who resided at Anathoth, Jerem. 1.1, 2.) did all he could to disswade both small and great from their Debaucheries, without gaining any thing but Injuries and Threats of Im∣prisonment; Baruch always kept him compa∣ny. 'Tis thought Zephaniah, Huldah and He, prophesied at the same time; He in the Streets, Zephaniah in the Synagogues, and Huldah to the Women. 'Tis certain, these 2 were Contemporaries with Jeremiah, and perhaps Nahum likewise.

The first 16 Chapters of Jeremiah, ex∣cepting the 10th, which concerns Zedekias, and the 13th which respects Jehoiakim and Zedekias, belong to the time of Josias, and contain Censures and Threatnings. The 22th Chapter belongs also to Jehoiakim, and Jechonias, and his Preaching, for which he is blamed to the 26th Chapter, wherein he recites the Cruelty exercised by Jehoia∣kim against the Prophet Uriah, whom he brings from Egypt to put to death. To this time, about the 8th year of Jehoiakim, should be referred the Chapters 17, 25, 27, 36, 45, & 46. and to the 7th year of this same King, the 13th, and 35th; and to Jecho∣nias, the 32d and 33d Chapters. What we read in 10, 18, 24, 27, 28, 30, 31, 48, & 49, concerns the first years of Zedekias. To the 4th belong the Chapters 19, 20, 50, 51. and what he says Chap. 13. to the King and Queen, 2 Kings 24.20. & 25.1. To the 9th, the Chapters 34, 37, & 47. To the 10th, the Chapters 21, 32, & 33. and to the 11th, the Chapters 38, & 39. In fine, to the time which followed the taking of the Town, and the destruction of the Temple, the Chapters 40, 41, 42, 43, & 44.

At the time when Jeremiah Prophesied in Judea, Ezekiel who was also of the Sa∣cerdotal Order, and had been left Captive in Chaldea, treated of the same things as Jeremiah; and confim'd what he had writ to the Captives, Chap. 28, 29. to forewarn them against the Seducements of Hananiah and Shemaiah, false Prophets, who assur'd them of a speedy Return.

The Scripture saying nothing of the death of these 2 Prophets, we shall not mention any thing of what the Ancients tell us. 'Tis observable, that in the 11th year of the Captivity, Ezekiel being divinely advertiz'd, that the Tyrians insulted over the the Miseries of Jerusalem, prophetically de∣nounces to them their sudden ruin, Chap∣ters 26, 27, 28; and in the 29th Chapter he promises, that Egypt and its plunder shall be Nebuchadnezars, and his Armies, for the travel they should suffer in the Siege of Tyre. After these Misfortunes of Judea, and the whole Nation, the City of Tyre taken, and Egypt subdued by Nebuchadnezar, as the Prophets foretold, he began to set up for a Soveraign Monarch, and to reckon the years from that time. It was then in the 2d year of this Monarchy, and in the following that hapned the things related in Daniel, Chapters 2, 3, & 4. it being impossible to determine the time of the Expulsion of this Monarch amongst the Beasts, nor how long it lasted; the 7 times mentioned, Dan. 4.16. being expounded by some of the 7 years, and others by 3 years and a half.

Nebuchadnezar having Reigned 45 years, Anno Mundi 3439. left his Son Evilme∣rodac the Successor of his Kingdom, in the 26th year of the death of Zedekias, and 37th of the Captivity of Jehoiakim, or of Jechonias, 2 Kings 25.27. Jerem. 52.31. in which this miserable Prince was taken out of Prison, unladen of his Irons, set at liberty, and treated as a King, by the favour of this monarch, who is thought to have had some knowledge of the true GOD, and in derision whereof the Chaldeans nam'd him Evilmerodac, which is, the Fool Merodac, for this last word was the common Title of their Kings.

Since the coming of Evilmerodac to the Crown, the 33 years which remain to end the 70 years of the Captivity, must be divid∣ed between him, Belshazar, and Darius, for the Scripture speaks only of these 3. Jeremiah had foretold, that the Jews and other Nations should serve Nebuchadnezar, his Son, and Sons Son, which is, to the 3d Generation. Nebuchadnezar in dying transmits this great Empire to Evilmerodac his Son; Evilmerodac his Son, to Belshazar his Grandson, who ac∣cording to the style of the Scripture is call'd the Son, Dan. 5.2.18.22.

Those who allow only 2 years to Evilme∣rodac, speak without grounds, and seem to contradict the Scripture, 2 Kings 25.29, 30. and this way of speaking that Jehoiakim being by Evilmerodac set at liberty, on the 27th day of the 12th Month, as expired either the year 37 of the Captivity, or the

1st of Evilmerodac, and eat with him, and was fed by him all the time of his life, doth methinks express a longer time than a year or 2; and therefore some of the Ancients attribute to Evilmerodac 18 years Reign, and others 12. Those who make him Assassinated by Neriglissar, his Brother-in-Law, Nebuchadnezar's Son in-Law, and Bel∣shazar's Father, with whom he Reigned 4 years, and Belshazar alone after his decease, about 9 Months, produce no convincing Proofs, but are feign to borrow from Pro∣phane Histories uncertain Conjectures, find∣ing themselves more perplext when they be to agree about the time and qualities of Da∣rius.

Let us then, without defining the parti∣cular time of the Reign of these 3, of which the Scripture is silent, allow them together the 33 years in question. It is true indeed, that Daniel passes immediately from Nebu∣chadnezar to Belshazar; but 'twill not be gather'd from thence, that Evilmerodac surviv'd his Father only 2 years; when per∣haps Daniel was absent during his Reign from the Court, attending in some distant Province on the Functions of his Charge; and certainly he must have liv'd a long time out of Babylon, seeing he was so little known there when Belshazar died, Daniel 5.13. And therefore neither does he speak of Bel∣shazar, as a Youth, who came now from losing his pretended Father Neriglissar, un∣der whose Tutelage he had lived; (this great Festival which he celebrated would have been little agreeable to the year of Mourning) but he speaks of him as a perfect Man, who Feasts not only his Gentlemen, but likewise his Wives and Concubines, Dan 5.2. and distinctly recites those Visions he had in the first year of Belshazar, Dan. 7.1. and in the 3d, Dan. 8.1. which he could not say, had Belshazar Reigned only 9 Months. I would give then 20 or 25 years to Evilme∣rodac, and to Belshazar his Son, and the rest to Darius, Subrogat to Belshazar, after he had been killed by the Conspiracy of his own, in the Night of his Sacrilegious Festi∣val, in the which the end of a Mystical Hand, by a Writing which Daniel alone could read and expound, had denounced to him his ruin, Dan. 5.30. so that still the last year of this Darius, who is the same that Writers have call'd Nabonides and Labonules, as they name Belshazar, Labosoarchodes, will fall in with the first of Cyrus, and the last of the Captivity.

He was not King of Media, but of Chal∣dea, as may be seen Dan. 5.31. and 9.1. and he is surnamed of Mede, not so much for having liv'd amongst the Medes, but be∣cause he was an originary, and that Ahasu∣erus his Father, Dan. 9.1. is the same, who is termed by the other Greeks Cyaxares (Father of Astyages, and Cyrus his Grand∣father) who being King of Mede joyned his Arms to those of Nebuchadnezar, for the taking of Niniveth, and the suppression of the Assyrians; for as Nebuchadnezar had espous'd Nitocris, the Daughter of Cyaxares, and Sister of Astyages, so it seems he brought into his Court this Darius, his Wives Bro∣ther, and that he there lived in great Credit, seeing he was 62 years of Age, when he was substituted to Belshazar, by the Faction of those who Assassinated him, and of whom perhaps he was the Chief, Dan. 5.31. And this was the first step of what GOD had de∣nounced to him, that his Kingdom should be divided, and given to the Medes and Persians, Dan. 5.28. seeing that this Person being originary of Mede, possest it after him, and settled the Government of it on the Platform of what was practis'd by the Medes and Persians, lately re-united under the Government of Cyrus, (after the death of Astyages his Grandfather) as may be ga∣ther'd from Dan. 6.1, 8, 12, 15.

This Darius the Mede in favouring Daniel, and establishing him one of the Triumvirs, who presided over the 120 Satrapes or Go∣vernours, which at his coming to the Crown he had established over all the Kingdom, to share his Authority with those from whose Suffrage he had received it, expos'd him to the envy and hatred of all others, who de∣signed by a wicked and cruel Edict, to make him be thrown into a Den of Lions, where he was miraculously preserved, to the great Joy of the King, and the confusion of his Enemies, Dan. 6.1, &c. As Daniel had un∣der Belshazer, the first and the 3d year of his Reign, the Visions he describes in the 7th and 8th Chapters of his Book; so hapned under Darius of Mede, in the first year of his Reign, what he did and saw in the 9th Chap∣ter.

Some few years after, Cyrus, who was mentioned by the name, almost 2 Ages be∣fore his death, to be the Deliverer of the

People of GOD, and the Restorer of his Temple, Isai. 44.5, 8. and 45.1. pursuing his other Conquests, laid Siege before Babylon, during which he Storm'd the Castle of Bor∣sineppe, where Darius the Mede had withdrew, whom he received into Favour, as being his Kinsman, and made him Governour of Cara∣mania, and in fine took the Town by Stra∣tagem, having cut another course for the Euphrates, than that through which it entered into the Town, even when the Inhabitants mock'd at his Attempts, and securely followed their Debaucheries, Isai. 21.5. and Jerem. 51.32, 39, 41. And this is the term or ending of the Empire of Babylon, as may be seen Jerem. 25.12.

CHAP. VII. Of the Sixth Period, or Age of the World.

As from the Foundation of the Temple (Laid in the Year of the World 2988) we reckon about 482 Years; so from the Taking of Babylon, and the Ending of the Captivity, to the Death of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST, there are (according to some) 490 Years, and (to others) 74 Years more, and again (according to others) 13 Years more.

ANno Mundi 3470. DANIEL, who had been till then Darius Favourite, and remained in this quality in the Capital City, insinuated himself so prudently into the Favour of the Conqueror (by the Bles∣sing of GOD) that he continu'd to him the same Employs he had under Darius, Dan. 6.28. And there's great likelihood 'twas at the Prophets perswasion (who without doubt com∣municated to him the Predictions of Isaiah and Jeremiah) that he published in favour of the Jews the Edict of their Liberty, from the 1st year of the taking of Babylon, and the Chaldean Monarchies submission to the Diadem of the Persians, 2 Chron. 36.22. Esdr. 1.1. in the year of the World 3470. Some Learned Men begin here the 70 Weeks of Daniel, and end them at the Death of the Son of GOD, Dan. 9.24. as if GOD would have had the Septenary of the Servitude to be followed by another Septenary, which should bring us in the Death of Jesus Christ, the true Messias, the Liberty of our Souls. The Jews seem in some sort to favour this Sentiment, seeing they make their 2d Temple to subsist but 420 years; and it's apparent, 'twas overthrown by Titus and Vespasian, in the 70th or 72d year after the Birth of our Saviour. But others, to adjust the Holy Chronology with Foreign Accounts (altho they be in several chief Points uncertain, espe∣cially in what concerns the Persian Monarchy) they hold one must descend lower, and begin the account of 70 Weeks in the 7th of Ar∣taxerxes, in which Esdras came into Judea with ample Commission, to set the Republick in order, Esdr. 7.7. or what appears more agreeing with the 20th, in which Nehemiah obtain'd the Office of Governor, and the Authority of rebuilding the Walls and Streets of the Town, Dan. 9.25. Nehem. 2.1. Others have moreover on this Subject, Sentiments less reasonable than the preceeding, the last of which is prefixable to all the rest: We intend not to enter into the discussion of these Chronological Punctilio's, in which one may sooner guess at, than demonstrate things.

After the Edict of Cyrus was published, Zorobabel the Son of Salathiel, of the Royal Family, called otherwise Shesbat-shar by the Chaldeans, Esdr. 1.8. and Attirshatta, which is the Governour for the King, in respect of his Dignity, Esdr. 2.63. compared with Esdr. 3.2. and Joshuah the High Priest the Son of Jozadock, and Sherajah's Grandson, who was executed with Zedekias, laden with the Sacred Vessels, which he caused to be restored, with a great number of persons specified, Esdr. Chap. 2. and Nehem. Chap. 7. arriv'd in Judea in the 2d year of Cyrus, a while before the 7 Months, and set to rebuilding the Altar, and offering their Sacrifices, Esdr. 3.1. In the following year they laid the Foundations of the Temple, Esdr. 3.8. But they immedi∣ately met with opposition, by the Credit which their Enemies found at Court, whence it came that Cambyses (Cyrus his Son, who

was employ'd afar off in the Expedition against Queen Tomyris) favour'd them not. And this was the cause of the Fasting and Prayers of Daniel, in the 3d year of Cyrus, Dan. 10.1. But the Prophet died a while after the last Vision which he had, as may be ga∣thered from the words of the Angel, and in ending it, Dan. 12.13.

This opposition continu'd under the Reign of Ahasuerus, and more violently under that of Artaxerxes, as is seen Esdr. 4.6, 7, &c. And as these 2 Names seem to have been common to the Kings of Persia and Mede, (compared Dan. 9.1. Esther 1.1. and Neh. 2.1.) yet it seems we should understand by this Ahasuerus, the Son and Successor of Cyrus, whom the generality of Historians have called Cambyses, who was found the Heir of his Scepter 3 or 4 years after the taking of Babylon, and Reigned 7 or 8 years; and by Artaxerxes, who followed him. This Impostor who would pass for Smerdis, Cyrus his 2d Son, whom the eldest had put to death; for his Imposture having been discover'd, and he punish'd, Darius Histaspis came to the Crown, and the Jews seeing him settled, and more∣over considering, that tho Cambyses (preju∣dic'd by his Flatterers) had conniv'd at their Oppression, without confirming the Edict which his Father had publish'd in their favour, yet there was no contrary and prohibited one, other than that of the false Smerdis, who is the first Artaxerxes of the Scripture, and that he not having been lawful King, the Prohibition he had made of Rebuilding was of no validity; they therefore took Courage at the sollicitation of the Prophets Haggai and Zacchary, and set to work in the 2d year of Darius, Esdr. 4.24. & 5.1. Hagg. 1.1. Zac. 1.1. And Darius having chang'd the Offi∣cers of the Crown on this side Euphrates, and substituted to Bishlam, Metredath, Rehum, &c. who in the time of Cambyses, and the Im∣postor Smerdis, had so hotly oppos'd the Building of the Temple, Tattenas, Shether∣boznai, &c. who were more moderate, Esdr. 5.3. They seeing this work advanced, came to Jerusalem, to inform themselves on the Spot; hear from Zorobabel and Joshuah, the Autho∣rity they had from the Edict of Cyrus, and made a faithful Report by their Letters to Darius, entreating him to inform himself of the Truth of the matter, and to send his Commands, touching what he would have them to do in this Point, Esdr. 5.3, 4, 5, &c. On these Letters Darius caus'd Search to be made in the Archives of the Empire, for what might concern this Order of Cyrus; and finding the Writing, he confirmed it by a 2d Edict, more careful to maintain the Will of Cyrus, whose Daughter he had espous'd than had been Cambyses his own Son, Esdr. 6.1, &c. Thus was finished the Temple, and the Dedication of it was celebrated, and they be∣gan to Worship in it in the 6th year of King Darius, Esdr. 6.15, &c.

If it be alledged, That according to this reckoning the interruption of this Temple must have lasted no more than 10 or 12 years at most, whereas 'tis said (John 2.20.) it had been 46 years in Building; one may answer, either that the Jews said this at a venture, without any certain information; or that they misreckon'd the time employ'd by Zorobabel in this Work; or that in giving moreover a year or two to the Life of Cyrus since the Work began, 7 to Cambyses, 1 to the Impostor Smerdis, and 36 to Darius, they find precisely these 46 years between the 2d of Cyrus, in which the Jews return'd from Babylon had follow'd this design, and the last of Darius, their second Benefactor, under whom the Work was again undertaken and finished.

It seems that Darius, since the Temple was finish'd, took no more care of the Interest of the Jews; whether he was otherwise employ'd in continual Wars; or whether he thought it was sufficient the Temple was built, tho the Walls were not raised.

To Darius, after a Reign of 36 years which is commonly given him, his Son Xerxes succeeded, who was born to him by Cyrus his Daughter: It's he who is indicated Dan. 11.2. and of whom is mention Esther 1.1, &c. He repudiated Vashti, espouses Esther in her place, takes Haman into favour, who vex'd at Mordecai for his refusal to bow to him, took a design, not only of destroying him, but at one and the same time all the Jews, which were to be found in the Empire; but the King having read the publick Registers, and the signal Service which Mordecai had rendred him, would have him worthily re∣compenc'd by the very hands of his great Favourite; who as he was just on the point of oppressing the Jews, Esther opposes her self with such success, by the Counsel of Mordecai, that all the mischief which this infolent Favourite had prepared against him,

fell on his own Head, and turn'd to the shameful ruin of himself and his Family. As Mordecai (Esthers Uncle) is without doubt another, than he who came up from Chaldea with Zorobabel and Jeshuah, Esdr. 2.2. and Nehem. 7.7. so what is said Esther 2.6. that he had been transported with the King Jecho∣nias, is not to be understood of his Person, but of that of his Father or Grandfather: But in supposing he was transported in the Reigns of his Father, or Grandfather, and born towards the end of the Captivity; or after 'twas ended; here will be no longer diffi∣culty.

Those who collect the History of Esther as far as Artaxerxes, or Darius Ochus, increase this Difficulty; and those who terminate it in Darius Hystaspis, do disingage themselves little better. Those who understand it of Cambyses are contradicted, because 'twas the 7th year of Ahasuerus when he espoused Esther, and Cambyses scarcely past over the 7th of his Reign, having moreover been a constant Enemy to the Jewish Nation to his death; and those who would understand the Ahasuerus of Esther, of Cyaxaris, who was the Father of Darius of Mede, cannot attri∣bute to him the magnificence and extent of the Empire, describ'd Esther, Chap. 1. beside, that he was not King of Media and Per∣sia.

Zorobabel and Jeshuah, who had the Con∣duct of the People from Cyrus this year, died, apparently under the Reign of Xerxes, and by their decease left their new springing Re∣publick in very bad order; to speak humanly, there cannot be given more than 60 years in their Administration, and in giving moreover 4 to Cyrus, after the taking of Babylon, 7 to Cambyses, 1 to the Impostor, and 36 to Darius, according to the common Reckoning, they must have liv'd no farther than the begin∣nings of Xerxes, to whom there are alloted 21; at the end of which succeeds his Son Artaxerxes Longemain, that is, Long-hand, who is made to have worn the Crown 40, or 41 years. And in effect it appears from the Relation of Esdras, that Corruption had so greatly gain'd since their decease, that Je∣shuah's Children are reckoned among the Priests, who had taken strange Women, Esdr. 10.18.

Esdras, who was of the Priestly Order, well vers'd in the Law, having without doubt heard in Babylon, that by the death of Zoro∣••abel and Jeshuah, and apparently from the 2 Prophets, Haggai and Zachary, who had so well seconded them, that all things went ill in Judea, was Divinely inspir'd to return there also, and to bring along with him a considerable Company of Priests, Levites, and Nethinians; which he did under the Authority and Favour of Artaxerxes, in the 7th year of his Reign, with rich presents, authentick Letters Pattents, and a very ad∣vantagious Commission, to establish Magistrate and Judges amongst the People, Esdr. Chap. 7•• and 8.

Anno Mundi 3538. 13 years after the arrival of Esdras in Judea, which is to say, the 20th year of Artaxerxes, Nehemiah (who is held to have been of the Tribe of Judah, and even of the Royal Race, yet another than he spoken of, Esdr. 2.2. and Nehem. 7.7.) obtains an express Commission of the same King to go into Judea, to re-establish the City of Jerusalem, with a very authentick Commission to govern the Nation; of which see Nehem. Chapters 1, 2, 5, and 14. And it seems that this Edict of Artaxerxes, is the word, That they should return and rebuild Jerusalem, and raise up the desolate places; whence begin the 70 Weeks, Dan. 9.25. seeing that of Cyrus (confirmed by Darius) spake only of building the Temple, not of rebuilding the Town, enclosing it and putting it into a condition of Defence.

Nehemiah being arrived at Jerusalem, builds up the Walls, and makes it tenable in 52 days, Nehem. 6.15. See Nehem. 12.27. and the Orders he establish'd amongst the People, as well in Civil as Sacred Matters, Nehem. Chapters 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13.

It appears, that in the time of Esdras and Nehemiah, Joakim the Son of Jeshua exercised the High Priesthood, Nehem. 12.26, but it seems he died a while after the arrival of Esdras, seeing Eliashib his Son was already in this Dignity, when the Walls of the Town were rebuilt, Nehem. 3.1, & 20.

Nehemiah was 12 years Governour, or Attirshatta, that is, Ethnarck, since the 20th to the 32d of Artaxerxes, Nehem. 5.14. and 8.10. but at the end of this term he return'd to the King, as well to give him an account of what he had done, as because his Commis∣sion was expired, Nehem. 13.6.

During his absence new Disorders arose, to which Esdras apparently not being able to withstand, the King was entreated from the

Jews to send them Nehemiah, who at his Return us'd his Authority even on the High Priest, Eliashib; who allying himself with Tobiah the Ammonite, had went so far as to lodge this Stranger in one of the Chambers of the Temple, whence Nehemiah made his Moveables be thrown out, and appointed for its proper use, Nehem. 13.6, 7, & 8. Then also Nehemiah prosecuted the dissolution of the Marriages contracted by the Jews with strange Women, which had been stipulated and began by Esdras, Esdr. 10.3. And Ne∣hemiah proceeded so far on this Point, t••at he drove away from Jerusalem one of his Sons, who had espous'd the Daughter of San∣ballat Honorite, Nehem. 13.28.

We cannot certainly determine, how long Esdras and Nehemiah liv'd; but these are infallible Maxims, which may give some light to the History. First, That Esdras was Divinely inspir'd, to make the last Review of the Scriptures of the Old Testament, and reduce them into a Body; and that he joyn'd with the Book which bears his Name, those of the Chronicles, that of Esther (written by Mordecai▪) and that of Nehemiah. 2dly, That Malachi, the last of the Prophets, has either been the same as Esdras, as several hold, or at least Contemporary with him; it being certain, that since the closing up of the Canon by Esdra, there has been neither Writing nor Writer Canonical under the Old Testament. 3dly, That Esdras had already writ the Chronical Books, before Nehemiah wrote his History, seeing they be therein cited, Nehem. 12.23. 4thly, That they have liv'd both of them to the time of Darius Codomannus, in whose Death (vanquish'd by Alexander the Great) ended the Empire of the P••rsians, seeing they have both extended the Succession of the Priests, to the Reign of Darius of Persia, as is expresly read, N••hem. 12.22. 5thly, That the Priest Jadduah, who is the last mention'd by Nehemiah, was Con∣temporary with Alexander the Great, and went before him with great solemnity, as appears from Josephus. 6thly, That Samballat mention'd in Nehemiah, was Manasses his Father in Law, the Brother of Jadduah, in favour of whom he sollicited by Darius, and obtain'd at length of Alexander, to whom he went and surrendred himself, the liberty of building the Temple of Garizim, that he might therein exercise the Priesthood, Nehem. 13.28.

These Truths acknowledg'd by most Chro∣nologists, divide them in their Opinions; some pretending, that the Artaxerxes of Esdras and Nehemiah, is he whom Secular Writers have Surnam'd Mnemon; and others judging it more convenient to stop at Longhand; and as the sequel of the Holy History leads us rather to him; so without curtailing the term which profane Historians assign to each of the Kings, which have followed the Great Xerxes, tho with little certainty and consent, 'twill be easie to find ones Reckoning. It's thought the Persian Monarchy lasted about 200 years, and according to the most just Account, the 20th of Artaxerxes Longhand was 86 of it: So that in supposing Nehe∣miah was then 25, and liv'd 135, which has nothing extraordinary, he might have seen Darius Codomannus arrive to the Crown; and there's great probability GOD took them both away, Esdras and Nehemiah, a while after Alexander had past the Bosphorus, that they might not see the entire ruin of an Empire, which had almost continually favour'd their Nation. It's not found any one succeed∣ed Nehemiah in his Office of Governour, and it seems as if after his death, the superiour Authority remain'd in Jadduah the High Priest.

Darius, attack'd so violently and success∣fully by Alexander, and in fine wholly van∣quish'd, invested himself with the Monarchy by his death in the 7th year of his Reign. See with what violence the Ram was attack'd by the Goat, Dan. 8.6, 7, &c. Here began the Monarchy of the Greeks, which is the King∣dom of Brass, Dan 2.39. and the third Beast like unto a Leopard, Dan. 7.6.

Anno Mundi 3670. Sanballat, the Satrapas of Samaria for Darius, had timely joyn'd himself to Alexander's Party, and obtain'd by his favour what Darius had refused him, to build the Temple of Gerizim, and to esta∣blish Manasses his Son-in-Law, the Brother of Jadduah, High Priest; whence arose the Controversie mentioned John 4.20. and the inveterate Hatred between the Samaritans and the Jews, Joseph. lib. 11.

Alexander being angry with the Jews, after the Taking of Tyre, marched to Jeru∣salem, to destroy it; but Jadduah coming to meet him, procur'd not only his Favour, but also his Veneration, putting him in mind of a Dream he had in Macedonia, in which a Man made and cloathed like Jadduah, had

exhorted him to attack the Persians, and promis'd him the Victory over them. This Alexander, who is called by Daniel the King of Javan, Dan. 8.21. and 10.20. outlived Darius by 6 years, and his Kingdom was divided to 4 Strangers: Seleucus had great Asia towards the North for his part; Ptolomy, Egypt towards the South; Antigonus, Asia Minor to the East; and Cassander, Macedonia towards the West, Dan. 7.6. and 8.8. and 23. and 11.4. Wars soon arose between these 4 Kindoms, and namely between the Seleu∣cides and the Ptolomies; whence sprang many difficulties to the Jews, situated between Egypt and Syria, increas'd by their own Dissensions; and the Marriages which these Princes con∣tracted often together, were rather Snares than Alliances.

The 2d Ptolomy was the Philadelphian, so nam'd, because he had married his Sister, under whom 'tis said there was made at his instance, because he gathered a great Library, the Greek Translation of the Old Testament, called vulgarly the LXX.

'Tis said also, That this Prince, better affected towards the Jews than his Father had been, restored to liberty 100000 Slaves of that Nation. Then was Eleazer High Priest, the Brother and Successor of Simon the Just, who was the Son of the first Onias, and he of Jadduah, according to Josephus. There were already several Misunderstandings between the first Seleucus the Son of Nicanor, and the first Ptolomy the Son of Lagus, con∣testing for Syria; and according to the vicissitude of War, the Jews were constrain'd to obey sometimes one, and sometimes ano∣ther: But the War growing more fierce be∣tween the 2d Ptolomy and the 2d Seleucus, Seleucus Soter, to whom soon succeeded Anti∣ochus Theos, the 3d of the same Seleucides; Philadelphe by a Treaty of Peace gave his Daughter Laodicea in marriage to Antiochus, and obliged him afterwards to leave her, altho he had already 2 Sons by her, and to take Berenice his other Daughter instead of her, which produc'd dismal Tragedies; for Antiochus seeing his Father dead, put away Berenice, and recall'd Laodicca, who poysons her Husband, and put to death her Sister, and a Child she had in a Cradle: But a while after Ptolomy Evergetes, the 3d of the Name, the Brother of Berenice and Laodi∣cea, attacks Callinus Seleucus, the 4th of the Seleucides, Son of Antiochus Theos, and gains on him great Victories, D••n. 11.5, 6, 7, 8, 9. Yet Seleucus Ceranuus, the 5th of the Seleu∣cides, and his Brother Antiochus the Great, both the Sons of Callinicus, took their Re∣venge, and especially Antiochus the Successor, and Heir of his Brother, the 6th King of Syria, comes against Ptolomy Philopater the Son of Evergetes, the 4th of the Name▪ who awaking from his Debauches, takes the Field, defeats Antiochus the Great, and re∣gains most of the places which had been taken from him, Dan. 11.10, 11, 12. See the 3d Book of the Macchabees, which serves as an Explication to these Prophecies, and relates what hapned to this Ptolomy, being withheld at Jerusalem, ••o enter into the Holy places against the Law of GOD, who became also a Protector in Egypt of the Nation, on which this miserable Prince would have reveng'd himself.

During these Stirs, Manasses the Uncle of Eleazer had succeeded him in the Sacerdotal Dignity, and to Manasses Onias, the 2d Son of Simon the Just; and to Onias, Simon the 2d. Antiochus having treated with Philo∣pater, watches an occasion, and seeing him dead, and that his Son Ptolomy Epiphanius, the 5th of the Name, was as yet but a Child, invades Egypt, strengthens himself with Al∣liances against her, takes Caelosyria, and several other places, Dan. 11.13, 14, 15. After which he comes into Judea, drawn thither by the Factions which divided her, and puts all into great Confusion, Dan. 11.16. See Josephus, Book 12. Chap. 3. But being stopt by the consideration of the Romans, who became Protectors of Ptolomy Epiphanes▪ he enters into League with him, and gives his Daughter Cleopatra in Marriage, who (contrary to the Fathers intention) remains faithful to her Husband; but designing against the Romans themselves, he was smartly handled by them, •• and in fine knock'd on the Head, as he was plundering a Temple in Syria, Dan. 11.17, 18, 19.

Seleucus Philopater his Son, the 7th of the Seleucides, comes to the Crown, forms a design of Pillaging the Temple of Jerusalem, and sends thither Heliodorus for this effect; but his enterprize did not succeed, Dan. 11.20. and see Macchabees Chap. 3. He quickly died, being Poyson'd by Heliodorus and Antiochus, surnam'd Epiphanes, or the Illustrious; who being an Hostage at Rome, secretly went thence, and came into Syria,

and taking on him immediately the Quality of Protector of Demetrius, the Son of his Brother Seleucus Philopater, invades after∣wards the Kingdom. 'Twas this Antiochus, not so properly Ephiphanus, as Epimanes, or the Enraged, whom Daniel describes, and offers as the lively Image and Type of Anti∣christ, Dan. 7.8. and 8.9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 23, 24. and 11.21, &c.

In the beginning of his Reign Hircanus kill'd himself, according to Josephus, Book 12. Antiq. Chap. 4. and under him began the Soveraign High Priesthood to be Mercenary, and in the disposal of the King. Onias, the 3d Son of Simon the Second was then in this Office; but his Brother Jason obtain'd it by Money, in the 137th year of the Seleu∣cides, and began to introduce Paganism amongst those of his Nation, 1 Macc. 1.11. and 2 Macc. 4, 7, 8, 9, &c. yet he enjoy'd it not long, for Menelaus, whom he had sent towards Antiochus to carry him his Presents, supplanted him, and obtained the Dignity, 2 Macc. 4.23. and hence was seen the sequel of his Crimes. About this time prodigious signs of Armies were seen fighting in the Air over Jerusalem; and Jason on a Report that Antiochus was dead, gathers People and drives away Menelaus, who retires to∣wards the Lacedemonians, where he dies poor, and without a Sepulchre, 2 Macch. 5.2. &c. In the mean time Antiochus was em∣ploy'd in the War against Egypt, (where Reign'd Ptolomy the 6th, as yet a young Child, and surnamed Philometer by Anti∣phrasis, for the hatred which Cleopatra his own Mother, and Sister of Antiochus bore him) which he ended by the Treason of the Ministers of Egypt, who having admitted him into the Country, as his Nephews Pro∣tector, furnished him with the means of be∣coming Master of several important places, by Craft, Bribes, and Intrigues, Dan. 11.22, 23, 24. 1 Macc. 3.30. But Ptolomy being grown up in years and courage, found means to retake them, and make them shake off the Syrian Yoke; who bearing this impatiently, invades Egypt with great vigour, gains the Battle against Ptolomy, who was betray'd by his own People, and renews a fraudulent Peace with him, which was of short durance, Dan. 11.25, 26, 27. For a while after he began new Attempts, upon which the Romans intervening for Ptolomy, he was constrain'd to desist, and came and disgorg'd his Fury on Jerusalem, Dan. 11.28, 29, 30, 31, &c.

It was in the 143d Year of Seleucides, that returning from Egypt he enters into Jerusalem, favour'd by those of his Faction; there exercises great Cruelties, profanes the Sanctuary, and pillages the Temple, 1 Macc. 1.21, &c. 2 Macc. 5.11, &c. 2 years after he continues his Cruelties by Apolonius, and by a publick Edict commands all the Jews to embrace Paganism, and to consecrate the Temple of Jerusalem to Jupiter the Olympian, and that of Garizim to Jupiter the Hospita∣ble, 1 Macc. 1 30, &c. 2 Macc. 5.22. &c. and 6.1, &c. Then hapned the cruel Executions on Eleazer, 2 Macc. 6.18. and the seven Brethern, 2 Macc. 7.1. &c.

Matthias the High Priest retires to Modin, refuses to obey the Kings Edict, kills the Commissioner and a Jew, who sacrificed to Idols, gathers Forces, and resolves on resi∣stance. 1 Macc. 1.1, &c. In dying in the 146 Year of the Seleucides, he establishes Ju∣das, Maccabeus his Son, Captain General of the People, who refused to adhere to Idolatry, 1 Macc. 2.64, &c.

Judas defeats in several Rencounters the Lieutenants of Antiochus, Apollonius, Seron, Georgias, and Lysias; purges the Temple, and celebrates the Dedication of it, mentioned John 10.22. 1 Macc. Chap. 3 & 4. com∣par'd with Dan. 11.32, 33, 34, 35. The Abomination of the Desolation had been in∣troduc'd by the order of Antiochus, the 25th of the 9th Month of the Year 145, 1 Macc. 1.62. and in the same Day and Month in the Year 148, the Temple was purified, 1 Mac. 4.52, 54. While Judas prosecuted his Vi∣ctories, Antiochus dies miserably, in the 149th year of the Seleucides, 1 Macc. 6.1, &c. leaving for Successor his Son Antiochus Eupater. In the Year 150 Judas besieges the Castle of Jerusalem, possest by the Ene∣mies; but Lysias, to whom the King was given in trust, bringing this young King in∣to the Wars, obliges him to raise the Siege, and after some slight Skirmishes, wherein Eleazer signalized himself, killing the great∣est of the Elephants, the taking of Bethsa∣rah by Antiochus, and the Siege even of the Temple, and those who defended it redu∣ced to great necessities; a Peace is made, by which is left to the Jews their Liberty and Religion, which was not faithfully ob∣serv'd, 1 Macc. 6.28, &c.

Antiochus was perswaded by Lysias to this Retreat, to go and oppose Philippus, who relying on the Authority the former Anti∣ochus had given him for the Government of his young Son, arrogated to himself at An∣tioch the Supreme Power, 1 Macc. 6.15, & 63. In the mean time Onias, Son of Onias the 3d, seeing no likelyhood of his coming to the High Priesthood, conferr'd it seems by Eupater on Alcimus, a wicked Man, retires into Egypt, and under the favour of Ptolomy Philometer builds in the Province of Heliopolis, against the Ordinances of the Law, a Temple like unto that of Jerusalem, and for the same use, which was surnamed Onion, of which see Josephus, Book 12. Antiq. Chap. 15. and Book 13. Chap. 6.

In the year 151, Demetrius the Son of Seleucus Eupater, being escap'd from Rome, where Antiochus his Uncle had sent him as an Hostage, is receiv'd by those of Antioch, and by the Army, puts to Death Antiochus Eupater, his Cousin German, and Lysias; and at the solicitation of A••cimus, who un∣worthily bore the Title of High Priest, sends Bacchides, the General of his Troops, against the well-meaning People, who were used with as much Perfidiousness as Cruelty, 1 Macc. 7.1, &c. Judas opposes himself against these Violences, and reduces Alcimus to great extremities, to whose assistance comes Nicanor from the Kings part, who succeeds neither under the Foxes Skin, nor that of the Lion, and loses his Wiles, his Forces, and his Life, 1 Macc. 7.26, &c. Judas Victorious seeks the Protection and Alliance of the Romans, 1 Macc. 8.1, &c. But in the year 152 Bacchides return'd in Judea, the Battle is given between him and the Troops of Judas, who was killed on the place, and Jonathan his Brother was chosen Captain General in his place, 1 Macc. 9.1, &c. See what was past at the entrance of his Generalship, 1 Macc. 9.1, &c. The year following 153 Alcimus dies, Bacchides retires to the King, call'd back against Jonathan, is beaten and makes Peace with him, who had laid Siege of his own authority against Mach∣mash, 1 Mac. 9.58, &c.

Seven years after, in the year 160, A∣lexander, who profest himself (tho falsly,) the Son of Antiochus the Illustrious, rises against Demetrius, who to oblige and retain the Jews to his side, permits Jonathan to raise Men, offers very advantagious Condi∣tions to the whole Nation, sets Jerusalem at liberty, and leaves the Castle at the disposal of the High Priest: But Alexander had pre∣vented him, and made Jonathan•• High Priest, the habit and quality of which he had taken in the 7th Month of this year, 1 Macc. 10.1, &c. In the same year Demetrius is de∣feated and killed by Alexander, who allies himself with Ptolomy Philometer, and espou∣ses his Daughter; And in the year 165, Demetrius, the Son of the preceeding, endea∣vours to amend his affairs; but Apollonius, General of his Troops is ill handled by Jona∣than, whom Alexander congratulates for his Victories, 1 Macc. 10.67, &c. In the mean time Ptolomy designs to dethrone his Son in Law; takes away Cleopatra from Alexander, and giver her to Demetrius; possesses him∣self of Antioch, and the Kingdom, defeats Alexander, who being fled into Arabia, there lost his Head, which Zabdiel sent to Ptolomy. But this was but a short Joy for him, for he died three days after, and his Souldiers disbanded themselves. Demetrius by this means finds himself settled in his de∣gree, in the year 167, and Jonathan enjoys his Favour, and obtains greater Authority and Priviledges for the whole Nation, 1 Mac. 11.1, &c. Yet this Demetrius, though so effectually assisted by Jonathan, matter'd not the keeping his word with him; and therefore Jonathan turns his back on him, and takes part with the young Antiochus, Alexander's Son, whom Tryphon had brought from Arabia to set up against Demetrius, whose Troops also Jonathan defeated, 1 Macc. 11.53, &c. Then Jonathan renews the League with the Romans and Lacedemonians, and had several prosperous successes against the Troops of Demetrius, so that Tryphon, to whom the young Alexander had only serv'd as a pretence, fearing the Arms of Jona∣than, carried him treacherously to Ptolo∣my, in design of delivering him up to him, wickedly stops him, and in fine, puts him to death, and two of his Sons, whom he had for Hostages of his Brother Simon, with an 100 Talents to release him, 1 Macc. 12.1, &c. and Chap. 13, 15, 16, &c.

Whilst that Simon, his Brother's Succes∣sor, procures him an honourable Burial, Tryphon puts to death the young Antio∣chus his Pupil, and possesses himself of the Crown, but Simon reconciles him∣self against him with Demetrius, in the

year 170, and by the Treaty of Peace, the Fortresses of the Jews remain to them; a general Peace is establish'd, and the Coun∣try is again freed from all Tribute, and there begins a a new Epoche for the Nation, 1 Macc. 13.1, &c.

In the year 171, Gaza surrenders to Simon, the Castle of Jerusalem, and John his Son is made General of the Forces, 1 Macc. 13.43, &c.

In the year 172 Demetrius, intending to oppose Triphon, is made Prisoner by Arsa∣ces King of the Parthians; but Simon enjoys all manner of Prosperity, 1 Macc. 14.1, &c.

Cleopatra, Demetrius's Wife, seeing her Husband Prisoner, and to secure her self from the Tyranny of Triphon, offers her self in Marriage with the Crown to Anti∣ochus Sidetes, her Brother in Law, who takes on him the quality of King, seeks by Letter Simon's Friendship, with many fair promises, and draws to him the Forces of the Country.

Then Triphon dismay'd (in the year 174) takes his flight; but Antiochus, tho' Simon had sent him 2000 Men for his assistance, did not keep his word; re-demands Joppa, Gazara, and the Fortress of Jerusalem, and on refusal sends ••endebeus to waste Judea, who was beaten and put to flight by the Sons of Simon, Judas, and John, 1 Macc. 15.1, &c. and 16.1, &c. But in the year 177, Ptolomy, the Son of Abodi, and Simons Son in Law, kill'd his Father in Law, and Mat∣thias and Juda, 2 of his Sons, in the For∣tress of Doch, where he had treacherously invited them to make Merry. His design was also to surprize Jerusalem and Gazara, and to kill John, Simon's other Son; but John having heard of his Fathers and Bro∣thers Murther, and the design against his life, took care of himself, 1 Macc. 16.11, &c. Josephus Book 13. Antiq. Chap. 15.

Antiochus Sidetes, offended against Simon and John his Son, who came from succeed∣ing him in the Priesthood and Soveraign Authority, comes into Judea with an Army, besieges Jerusalem, and constrains John to Capitulate under conditions hard enough, but which were not prejudicial to Religion. Under this John, who was surnam'd Hircanus, arose in the Synagogue the two Sects (so fa∣mous) of the Pharisees and Sadducees, John highly favouring these latter.

We have pursued the Series of these things the longer, not to place these Books of the Macchabees, nor the History of Josephus, in the rank of Canonical Books; but because they serve to shew the fulfilling of the Pro∣phet Daniels predictions. Pass we more lightly over the rest, destitute as we are of the infal∣lible Light of Gods Word.

Each of the Asmoneans who succeeded John Hircanus bore both the Title of King and High Priest, tho' by the Law of GOD, and by the express order these 2 Offices were inconsistent, and were not to be appropriated by any but the Messias, Psal. 110.1, 2, 3, 4. And as their Regality was very tottering, so there were great Irregularities in all their Priesthoods.

To John, after he had sustained 30 years this double Dignity, succeeded the first in one and the other Aristobulus his Son, who kept it but a year, having dethron'd his Mother, and privately put to death his Brother Anti∣gonus.

His younger Brother Alexander Jammeus succeeds him, and Rules 27 years: He was engaged in several Wars, as well domestick as foreign; the latter against Ptolomy La∣thurus, King of Egypt, and died, having been troubled for 3 years together with a Quartan Ague. He left 2 Sons after him, Hyrcanus and Aristobulus; but Alexandra their Mother governed by the Pharisees, possest her self of the Crown, and obliged the Eldest to content himself with the Priest∣hood, continuing in this Authority the space of 9 years.

After her death Aristobulus, who has only 6 years assigned him, takes her place, and deprives Hyrcanus his Eldest Brother of the Priesthood. Antipater the Ascalonite, or Idumean, the Father of Herod, fear'd one and govern'd the other of these. Hyrcanus by his direction implores the assistance of Aretas to good purpose; yet he was con∣strained by Scaurus, Pompeys Lieutenant, to leave off his Suit to him: Pompey himself undertaking the abitrement of this great process, comes to Jerusalem, where Hyrcanus prevailed, takes by force the Temple, defend∣ed by Aristobulus his Party, restores the Priesthood to Hyrcanus, makes Aristobulus and his 2 Sons his Prisoners, and carries them to Rome, 22, or 23 years are assign'd to Hyrcanus, who saw the Temple plundered by Crassus; Alexander his Nephew escaped

from Prison, returns into Judea, but con∣strain'd to render himself to Gabinus, had his Head taken off by Pompey's Order. Aristobulus, with Antigonus his other Son. Fugitive from Rome, recovered the Crown and Priesthood by the favour of the Par∣thians; but Antipater, Hyrcanus's Friend, and who (under his name) had the Admi∣nistration of the Republick, having follow∣ed and served Julius Caesar against those of Pompey's Party, obtained the confirmation of the Priesthood to Hyrcanus. Then was An∣tipater made Citizen of Rome, and Procurator of Judea.

Antigonus alledged for himself (before Caesar) that his Father Aristobulus, whom Caesar had favour'd, and his Brother Alex∣ander were dead, the Father by Poyson, and the Brother by the violence of those who follow'd the Party of Pompey; but the favour and credit of Antipater prevailed against his Reasons. At length Hyrcanus lost his Right Arm by the death of Antipater, who left four Sons; Phasael, whom he had made Governour of Jerusalem; Herod, whom he had set over Galilee; Joseph and Pheroras, and a Daughter nam'd Salome.

Julius Caesar having been killed in the Senate, Cassius extorts eight hundred Talents from Judea; Antigonus, through the favour of his Father in Law, and other Friends, makes an Attempt on Galilee, where he is beaten by Herod, who by this means conciliates not only the Favour, but also the Alliance of Hircanus, by espousing Mariamne, Alexander's Daughter, Eldest Son of Aristobulus, and of the Daughter of Hyrcanus.

Mark Anthony, one of the Triumvirs, being come into Judea, Herod did so insi∣nuate himself into his Favour, that not only he declared him absolved in Judgment from all Accusations, which were laid against him, but also he and his Brothers were made Tetrarchs.

But what follows was a new obstacle to his rising Fortune: Antigonus having drawn the Parthians to his Party, they seize on Jerusalem, under pretence of well meaning, make Prisoners Hyrcanus and Phasaelus; Antigonus cuts and tears with his Teeth the Ears of the first, to make him incapable by this mutilation of exercising the Priest∣hood for the future, and Phasaelus beats out his Brains against a Wall. Herod saves himself as well as he could, from Jerusalem, and having left his Brother Joseph for the Defence of the Castle of Massada, goes to Rome in the midst of Winter, where by the favour of Anthony, and the credit of the Triumviracy, he is created King of Judea by the Roman Senate. Adorned with this Quality, he returns into Judea, to do his Office; but Antigonus opposes him during Three Years, till at length Herod takes Jeru∣salem by Force, makes his Antagonist Pri∣soner, and procures him by Anthony's Au∣thority to be Beheaded at Antioch. Fearing Hyrcanus, who was a Prisoner with the Par∣thians, and gently treated in Chaldea, he manages his return to Jerusalem; and hav∣ing deposed Ananel from the Priesthood, who had obtained it after the death of Anti∣gonus, he confers it on Aristobulus his Wives Brother, Aged 17 years; but having most basely caused him to be drowned as he bathed himself with him, he restores Ananel to his place.

After several Domestick Intrigues, in which the Ambition, Fraud and Cruelty of Herod every day signalized themselves, and the Suits he had before Anthony with Cleopatra, followed the Battle of Actium, and the death of these two, whereupon he puts to death the old Hyrcanus, who seemed an Eye-sore to him, comes to Augustus victorious, and is well received by him, and obtains the con∣firmation of his Authority, and assurance of his Amity: being returned home, he puts to death his Wife Mariamne, and Alex∣andra his Mother in Law, prejudiced by Calumnies against them; obliges his Sister Salomas to give a Bill of Divorce to Costobar her Husband; rebuilds Samaria, which he calls Sebastia in honour of Augustus, sig∣nalizes himself by several other Buildings; relieves the People in Famine; espouses the Daughter of Simon Boetius of Alexandria, and taking the High Priesthood from Jesus-Phabetis, who had held it six Years after Ananel, confers it on his Father in Law; prejudiced by Calumnies and Suspicions, he put his two Sons to death, Aristobulus and Alexander, which he had of Mariamne; sets a Golden Eagle on the Gate of the Temple, to the great scandal of the whole Nation, and makes not only his own dwelling, but the whole Country a Charnel-House.

Thus are we arrived to the Birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

CHAP. VIII. Of the Seventh Period, or Age of the World.

Which contains the History of the New Testament, from the Birth of Jesus Christ, to the Destruction of Jerusalem.

ANno Christi, Altho the Spirit of GOD fur∣nishes us with considerable Marks, Luke 2.1, 2. and 3.1, 23. to denote to us almost the exact time of the coming of Jesus Christ into the World; yet it seems to have in this particular bridled our too great Curiosity, in telling us that in the 15th year of the Reign of Tiberius, &c. he was about 30 years of Age. Yet from hence is gathered, he must have been born about 15 years before the death of Augustus.

This Prince (according to Suetonius) lived about 76 years; at the Age of 20 he recei∣ved the Succession of Julius Caesar his Un∣cle, killed in the Senate by Brutus and Cassius; to revenge his death, he associates Anthony and Lepidus, and thus formed the Trumviracy, which lasted about 12 years, after which it terminated in the death of An∣thony, he Reigned moreover 44 years. Yet Chronologists begins the years of Augustus in the Empire by the death of his Uncle; and thus we must fix the Birth of the Son of GOD, to the end of the 41st year of Augustus, or at the beginning of the 42d.

S. John Baptist, of the Sacerdotal Rank, the Son of Zachary and Elizabeth, ordained for a Fore-runner to our Lord, was born 6 Months before him, it being already 6 Months since his Mother was big of him, when the Angel Gabriel declared to the Holy Virgin the Conception of Jesus Christ, Luke 1.36. She dwelt at Nazareth, a Town of Gallilee, and was betrothed to Joseph when the Hea∣venly Messenger brought her this great News. And a while after, by the secret instinct of the Spirit of GOD, she went to visit her Cousin S. Elizabeth, Luke 1.39, which served to forti∣fie them both in the Faith of this great My∣stery.

Whilst the consummation of the Marriage is deferred by the secret Order and Provi∣dence of GOD, which made innocent Obsta∣cles to arise, such as might be the Journy of the Holy Virgin to Elizabeth, it hap∣ned that Joseph perceiving her pregnancy, resolved to disingage himself from her with∣out noise; but he was divinely hindred by an Angel, Matt. 1.18, &c.

In the mean time comes the Edict of Augustus, to make the recension and nume∣ration of all the Subjects of the Empire, to know the Forces of it, Luke 2.1. It seems that Cyrenius, as he is named, Luke 1.2. that is Quirinus, was sent into Syria with an extraordinary Commission for this descrip∣tion, whilst that Saturninus was called home, and that Q. Varus had succeeded him. Now to proceed to this description in an orderly manner, every one was obliged to render himself in his Town and Country; and there∣fore, tho' Joseph and Mary had their habita∣tion at Nazareth, they were obliged to go to Bethlehem to be Enrolled in the City of David, because both how mean soever and low their condition was then, drew their original from this great King, as appears from the Genealo∣gies which we have of Jesus Christ, Matt. Chap. 1. and Luke Chap. 3.

Being arrived at Bethlehem, they found all places of Entertainment so full, that they were forced to lodge in a Stable, where the hour and pains of Childbirth seizing on the Holy Virgin, she was happily delivered of this Holy Child, God-Man, wrapping him up in poor Cloaths, in the best manner she could in this surprize, strengthened by a particular assistance of the Lord, and laid him in a man∣ger, Luke 2.6, 7.

His Nativity was immediately declared by an Angel to Shepherds, who watch their Flocks in the Night; and a Multitude of the Heavenly Choir, made at the same time, the Air resounds with Canticles of Praise on this occasion. These Shepherds come to see at Bethlehem what had hapned, and publish the News thereof to their Neighbours, Luke 2.8, 9, &c.

The Scripture has not mark'd the Day or Month of our LORD's Birth; but held to be on the 25th of December: Eight days after his Birth, He is Circumcised according

to the Law, and called JESUS, Luke 2.21. A while after Wise-Men, called Magi in the Gospel, being warned of this Birth by a miraculous Star, come from the East of Judea, and rather from Arabia, than Persia, to inform themselves at Jerusalem, of the place where the King of the Jews was born. Their Demand and Enquiry put them in trouble, and filled the mind of Herod with disquiet, to whose Ambition every thing gave place. Being instructed by the Priests and Scribes of the place mark'd in the Scripture, for the Birth of the Messias, he sends these Strangers into Bethlehem, with a strict charge to bring him exact Information of their Discoveries, pretending also, that he would go and worship him. They setting forth at Night for Jerusalem, see the same Meteorick Star (for it was not an Aethereal) which they had seen in their Country, which led them directly to the Place where Jesus lay, stopping its course on the House; where being entred, they find the Mother and the Child, whom they Religiously worship, and draw forth Gold, Myrrh, and Frankincense, which they brought with them to present him; and being warn'd from GOD, not to return towards Herod, they withdrew another way, Matth. 2.1, &c.

And this is what the Holy History teaches us; those who affirm, they were but Three, and make Kings of them, have spoken without Book, as well as those who make them to arrive at Bethlehem the sixth of January, and 13 days after our Saviour's Nativity. So the Feast of the Epiphany was celebrated anciently in remembrance, either of the Conception, or of the Birth or Baptism of our Saviour; and not on the occasion of the Arrival of these Magies. It's far more probable, they came not into Judea till about 5 Weeks after the Birth of our LORD; and that a few days after they parted from Bethlehem, the term of the Mother's Purification, and Presentation of her Son in the Temple being laps'd, Joseph and Mary ascended up with the Child to Jerusalem, to satisfy the Ordinances of the Law, Luke 2.22, 23, 24. There Simeon comes to meet and embrace him in the Temple, and Ann the Prophetess meets them at the same instant; and as he (before∣mentioned) joyfully disposes himself for death, having seen the LORD Christ, ac∣cording to the Promise he had; so she spake of it to all them, whom she knew expected Deliverance at Jerusalem, Luke 2.25, &c.

Whilst these things past in the Temple, and Herod (who hatch'd a detestable Design against the LORD's Life) expects in vain the Return of the Wise-Men, to execute it with greater Secrecy: Joseph is advertiz'd from Heaven, not to bring back the Child to Bethlehem, but to carry him with his Mother into Egypt, and there to tarry till further Order, Matth. 2.13, 14. It was at Jerusalem that this Command was given Joseph, and thereupon he immediately sets forth; so that S. Luke making him return to Nazareth, after what had hapned in the Temple, Luke 2.39. must be supplied from St Matthew, to understand that he return'd not into Galilee, till he had executed what was prescrib'd by Moses Law, and the Com∣mand which he received to fly into Egypt, as a place of shelter against Herod's Designs: For Herod finding himself deceived by the Wise Men, resolved to use the Lyons Claw, where the Foxes Skin had served to no pur∣pose; and therefore he sends Officers to Bethlehem, who make diligent search in all Houses of this Town, and adjacent places, and kill the Male Children which they could find, from 2 years old and upwards, Matth. 2.16, &c.

It was not two years since this Star had appeared to the Wise Men, and they had not been two years in the way; but Herod suppo∣sing the Child might have been born before the Wise Men had observed the Star, and determined to take the surest Measures, he took therefore a larger compass, and con∣demn'd to Death all those who might have been Born since two years, to the time in which the Wise Men were arrived at Jeru∣salem, and had carefully informed himself of them. And thus, if any Children were spared, it were only those who were new Born, seeing few days slipt between his En∣quiry, and his cruel Execution.

A while after, and in the same year in which JESUS was Born, Herod falls sick of the filthy and troublesome Disease, called Pedi∣cular, with which he dies. By the Calum∣nies of Antipater, the eldest of his Sons, he had put to Death Alexander and Aristobulus, whom he had of Mariamne; but Antipater, impatient at his Father's living so long, began to Conspire against him, and resolved

on Poysoning him. He formed this Conspi∣racy with his Unkle Pheroras, Herod's Brother, whose Wife was much irritated against her Brother in Law in favour of the Pharisees, a great number of whom Herod had put to death, and Condemn'd the rest to great Fines; for finding himself hated by the People for his Avarice and Cruelty, he had extorted from them a new Oath, which the Pharisees had refused, promising to them∣selves and others, on certain Revelations which they pretended, the Crown should be taken from him, and his Brother Pheroras should wear it. Antipater, the better to carry on his design, procur'd by his Friends to be sent to Rome; but Pheroras surpriz'd by Sickness, repents of this design and dies. Herod suspects his Sister-in-Law to have poysoned her Husband, and in making an exact Inquisition, he finds the Poyson was design'd against him, by the Conspiracy of Antipater. He sends for him from Rome, accuses him of Parricide, and throws him into Prison, in expectation of Augustus his Sentence. Things were in this state when the Little Children were murthered, which Fact being related to Augustus, employed in a second Process of the Father against the Son, made him utter this saying, cited in Macrobius) That 'twere better to be Herod's Hog than his Son.

This wretched Tyrant, laden with Crimes, Vexation, and Years, being about 70, takes his Bed, and tho desperately ill, he conti∣nues in his ordinary Cruelty. Two famous Men, Judas and Matthias, Doctors of the Law seeing him in a condition not like to recover, had perswaded their Disciples to beat down the Golden Eagle, which he set over the Gate of the Temple in honour of Augustus; but he caused most part of them to be burnt at Jerico, where he had caused them to be brought: He also shut up in the Hypodrom, the Principal Persons of the Jewish Nation, with Order, that they should be knock'd on the Head, as soon as he was dead, that the Jews might have cause to lament at his death, tho not for it. And having known, that Antipater (on a false Rumour which was spread in the Palace) be∣lieved he was dead, when he called for a Knife to pare an Apple, and had attempted to kill himself with it, and began to treat with the Goaler about his Liberty, he puts him to death, and died himself 5 days after, having Reigned (according to Josephus, who relates all these things at length) 37 Years since he had obtained at Rome the Title of King, and 34 since Antigonus, the last of the Asmoneans was dead.

Anno Christi 2. Herod being dead, Joseph had notice from Heaven thereof in Egypt, and receives Order to return home; but having understood, that Archelaus his Son Reigned in his stead, he retired into Galilee, Matth. 2.20, &c.

Herod, a while before his death had altered his Will, and by a preceeding, he made Herod-Antipas his Successor of the Crown; but in the last he appointed Archelaus his Successor and King of Judea, with reference to the good liking of Augustus. Archelaus being arrived at Rome, to be confirmed in his Dignity, found there great opposition, as well from the part of Herod-Antipas as from all the Nation, who would have no more Kings. And Augustus having heard the Parties, and the Jewish Ambassadors, to the number of fifty, assisted by 8000 other Jews residing at Rome, who formed weighty Accusations against Herod and Archelaus, and desired, That their Country might be govern'd as a Province, and not as a King∣dom, assign'd Judea, Idumea, and Samaria, to Archelaus, under the Title of Ethnare, that is, less than that of a King; but with Promise to obtain that, if he made himself worthy, though the Jews made no difference between these two Names: But Philip his Brother was made Tetrarch of Ituria and Trachonia and Herod-Antipas was of Gallilee, Luke 3.1.

While these things past at Rome, and moreover, an Impostor would pass for Alex∣ander the Son of Herod and Mariamne, whom the Father had put to death; Judea was vext with divers Seditions, and greatly disturbed by the Incursions and Pillagings of this Theudas, or Judas, mentioned Acts 5.36. He was the Son of one Ezekias, Captain of the Banditi, who had heretofore given much Trouble to Herod. Archelaus returned into Judea, takes away the High Priesthood from Joazar, and places Eleazer his Brother in his room. These two were the Sons of Simon Boethius, whom Herod (who had espoused his Daughter) had promoted to this Dignity; but had since deprived him of it, in putting to death his Wife, who had conspired against his Life, and had subsituted to him Matthias

the Son of Theophilus; but a while before his death he had deposed Matthias, accusing him for having connived at the beating down of the Golden Eagle, and put this Joazer in his place; but Eleazer was since dispossest by Joazer, who took his Rank when Archelaus was banisht. The principal Persons of Judea and Samaria, impatient at the rude Treat∣ment which they received from Archelaus, put in an Accusation at Rome against him, in process of which he is dispoiled of his Dignity 10 years after he had obtained it, being banisht to Vienna in Dauphine, all his Estate confiscated, and his Country reduced in form of a Province, and joyned to Syria, where Quirinus is sent Governour, and charged with the sale of Archelaus's Goods, of a second description; and 'tis in respect of this second, that that under which our Saviour was born is called the first, Luke 2.2.

In the time of this second description, Judas the Galilean interpreting it Servitude, and pretending that the Title of Lord and Prince belonged only to GOD, he drew great store of People after him, Acts 5.27. In the preceeding Verse there is also mention of one Thudas, a Ring-leader of Sedition, who must have appeared in the time of Augustus, or Tiberius, and must not be confounded with another of the like Name, who arose since, under Claudius the Emperour, and after the death of Herod-Agrippa, of whom speaks Josephus, lib. 20. of the Antiquity of the Jews, Chap. 2. Quirinus having ended his Recension, left Coponius as Procurator of Augustus in Judea, to order affairs there. Then also Joazer is deposed from the Priest∣hood, and Ananus, or Annas (the Father-in-Law of Caiphas) is substituted in his room; and these two exercise alternately the Charge, until our LORD's Death, Luke 3.2. tho not so constantly, but that they left the place sometimes to a Third, as may be verified out of Josephus.

Anno Christi 12. Then our Saviour at the age of 12. years was led by Joseph and Mary from Nazareth, where they lived, to Jerusalem, in the time of the Passover, where he stayed unknown to them 3 days; at the end of which they found him in the Temple, sitting or standing in the midst of the Do∣ctors, hearing and asking Questions, to the admiration of all, Luke 2.40, &c. The Sacred Records denoting only this of what∣ever our Saviour did, and whatever hapned to him at his Baptism; only that being re∣turned from Jerusalem to Nazareth, he was subject to Joseph and Mary, applying himself to the labours of a Carpenter, and eating his Bread with the sweat of his Brows, Luke 2.51. (for we have no reason to amuse with Apochryphal Writings) we shall therefore pass lightly over the things that hapned in the World, during the 18 years which slipt, till he was manifested in Israel.

Anno Christi 13, 14, 15, 16, 17. We may refer to the 13th year of our Saviour, what was done by the Samaritans in the Temple of Jerusalem, where being secretly entred, and by Night (during the Feast of the Passover) they sprinkled it with dead Bones, to defile it. In the 14th year Augustus sends for Successor to Coponius, in the Office of Procurator of Judea, Marc Ambivius, who remained there but a while; for immediately Annius Rufus was substituted in his place. In the 15th year expiring, or the 16th be∣ginning, Augustus dies at Nola, and Tiberius succeeds him, who from the 2d year of his Empire, in the 17th year of Christ, sends for Successor to Annius Rufus in Judea, Va∣lerius Gratus, who continued in this Office 11 years; during this time he made divers changes in the Priesthood; for first, he de∣prived Annas of it, to confer it on Ishmael the Son of Fabius, whom he displaced a while after, substituting Eleazar to him, the Son of Annas; but at the years end, deposes Eleazer, and puts Simon the Son of Comith in his place; and at the end of a year, Joseph, surnamed Caiphas (Annas Son in-Law) succeeds him; so that we must not wonder if the Gospel speaks often of Chief Priests in the Plural, because the Romans made this Dignity not only Ambulatory, but also Annual, and sometimes shared it be∣tween two Persons, Luke 3.2. About this time Tiberius made the Jews be expelled Rome, because Fulvia, Wife to Saturninus, having embraced Judaism, and 4 vile Fel∣lows, who pretended to be Doctors of the Law, having persuaded her to send for an Offering to the Temple of Jerusalem, Purple and Gold, they had applied (by a horrid Sacriledge) these Oblations to their particu∣lar use. Then also 4000 Jews, who had been freed from Servitude, were sent from Rome into Samaria, to oppose the Thieves there; the Senate esteeming there would be little loss,

if the bad Air killed most part of them.

Anno Christi 28, 30. Pontius Pilate at the end of 11 Years succeeds Valerius Gratus; and about two Years after, in the 15th of Tiberius, S. John Baptist begins his Ministry, Luke 3.1. His Habit was plain and mean, like that of Elisha, 2 Kings 1.8. his way of living very austere, and all his Conduct looking towards the Doctrine of Repentance, which he Preached, being charged with the first Administration of Baptism, which he names, Bapti••m of Repentance for the Re∣mission of Sins, Matt. 3.1, &c. Mark 1.8. Luke 3.1. John 1.6, &c. He began by the Desart of Judea, that is, by that Country of Judea, which for being the less inhabited and culti∣vated than the rest of the Country, was called the Hill Country, and the Desart Coun∣try, Luke 1.39. where he had been brought up in his Father's House, under the Discipline of a Nazarite, to which no less than Samp∣son he had been obliged, before his Birth, Luke 1.15. It was in the Neighbourhood of Jordan, in a place called Bethabara, as who would say, The House of Passage, John 1.28. and which is thought to be the same place by which the Israelites (under the Conduct of Joshuah) entred into the Land of Canaan, Joshuah 3.1, &c.

Those who pretend, that S. John Baptist attended his Ministry some years before the Baptism of Jesus Christ, will be hard put to it, to find in Scripture grounds for their Opinion; but being older than our LORD by 6 Months, 'tis to be presumed he had been already 5 or 6 Months employed in the ex∣ercise of his Office, before our LORD was by his Baptism solemnly inaugurated into his.

His Preachings were full of Spirit, tho he confirm'd them by no Miracle, John 10.41. his Censures sharp, Matt. 3.7. Luke 3.7. his Instructions weighty and pertinent to every condition, Luke 3.15, &c. and he especially dispos'd mens Minds to believe in him, who was come after him, and whose Fore-run∣ner he was, Matt. 3.11. Luke 3.15, 16, 17. Acts 1••.4. In fine, as they came to him from all parts to be Baptized, Jesus then be∣ing 30 years of Age, or thereabouts, Luke 3.23. came also himself from Nazareth to the same end, Matt. 3.13. Mark 1.9. Luke 3.21.

Hitherto S. John Baptist had not known him by the Countenance or outward Con∣versation, John 1.33. but GOD made him known to him as he entred into the Water with him, (whereupon he would have ex∣cused himself from Baptizing him, Matt. 3.14.) and farther confirm'd him in the belief of his Deity, John 1.33. For then the Hea∣vens open'd, and the Holy Spirit in form of a Dove descended visibly on him, and this Voice from Heaven was heard, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, Matt. 3.16, 17. Mark 1.10, 11. Luke 3.21, 22.

Our Saviour being Baptized, according to the common Opinion the 6th of January is car∣ried into the Desart, where he remains 40 Days and 40 Nights, without eating or drinking, and is there tempted of the Devil, Mat. 4.1, &c. Mark. 1.12, 13. Luke 4.1.

From thence he returns to Bethabara, where S. John Baptiz'd, mix'd amongst the throng of his other Auditors. Then came to S. John Deputies from Jerusalem, to demand of him who he was, and having deny'd to them he was the Christ, or the person of Elias, or the Prophet promis'd by Moses, he declar'd to them what his Office was, and that he whose way he prepar'd, was in the midst of them. The next morning seeing Jesus, who came towards him, he denoted him in general to his Hearers, as being the true M••ssias; and the day following he speaks of him farther to 2 of his Disciples, one of which was Andrew, the Brother of Peter, and the other (as is pre∣sum'd) S. John the Evangelist; these two fol∣lowed our Saviour, who brings them home, where they pass the rest of the day. An∣drew brings his Brother Simon to him, to whom Jesus declares he should be call'd Cephas, which is Peter, John 1.19, &c. The day following the LORD designs for Gallilee, and makes himself also be followed by Phi∣lip, who brings to him Nathaniel, John 1.43, &c.

Three days after is celebrated the Marriage of Cana, and the Wine failing, he chang'd Water thereinto, as the first-fruit of his Mi∣racles: and from thence passes into Capernaum with his Mother and Relations, where he was but a few days, John 2.1, &c.

Anno 31. From Gallilee, he ascends up to Je∣rusalem on account of the Passover, where he purg'd the Temple, and signalized himself by divers Miracles, John 2.13, &c.

Nicodemus comes by Night to him, with whom he had a very important discourse touching R••generation, of Faith, and his own

Death, John 3.1, &c. He leaves Jerusalem to preach in all Judea, where he makes Dis∣ciples, and Baptizes by the Ministry of the first. S. John the Baptist, who every day gave ground to him, having left Jordan, Baptized at Enon, where on occasion of a Dis∣pute agitated between the Jews and his Dis∣ciples, touching Purification, he instructs them very particularly of the Person and Office of Jesus Christ, John 3.22, &c. A while after S. John was confined to Prison by Herod Anti∣pus, Tetrarch of Galilee, who yet took on him the Title of King, impatiently bearing the free Reproofs which this faithful Servant of GOD made him on occasion of Herodias, the Wife of his Brother Philip, the Tetrarch of Itruria, who at his solicitation had left her Husband, by a Bill of Divorce, against the Laws and Customs of the Nation, which granted not this priviledge to Women, and had joyn'd herself to this Person, Mark 6.17, &c. Matt. 14.3, 4, 5.

Our Saviour having heard of the Imprison∣ment of St. John, and of the Jealousie the Pharisees had at his proceedings at Jerusalem, he leaves Judea to return into Galilee, Matt. 4.12. John 4.1, &c.

In this Journey which he made in the Win∣ter, he past thro the Country of Samaria, had at the entrance into the Town of Sichar, or Sichem, a very important Dialogue with a Woman of that Country, and is well re∣ceived by the Inhabitants of the place, where he stays 2 days, John 4.4, &c. From thence he arrives in Galilee, where he is well re∣ceived, Mark 1.14. Luke 4.14, 15. John 4.45. Being at Cana, he there signalizes himself by a 2d Miracle, in curing with a word speaking, the Son of one of Herod's Officers, who is thought to have been Chuza, the Steward of his Houshold, John 4.46, &c. He passes from thence to Capernaum; where having wrought several Miracles, he comes to Nazareth, and is immediately heard in the Synagogue with admiration; but for having spoken too freely he was in danger of his Life, and is on the point of being precipitated from the top of a Mountain, Luke 4.16, &c. and therefore he returns to Capernaum, and there teaches every Sabbath-day, Matt. 13.17. Mark 1.21, 22. Luke 4.31, &c.

During his stay at Capernaum, whence he oft went out to preach in the Neighbouring parts; he calls Simon Peter and Andrew his Brother, and afterward James and John, the Sons of Zebedee, to the Apostleship, Matt. 4.18, &c. having taught the People out of Simon's little Ship, where was drawn up afterwards that miraculous number of Fishes, Luke 5.3, &c. In the same Town he deli∣vers one possest in the Synagogue, Cures S. Peter's Mother-in-Law, who lay sick of a Fever, and at Night he had divers sick People brought to him, whom he healed, Matt. 8.14. Mark 1.23, &c. Luke 4.33, &c. The next Morning being followed by his Disciples, he goeth into a Desart place, where great Mul∣titudes followed him; passes from one place to another, Preaching in the Synagogues, and healing the Sick, Matth. 4.23. Mark 1.35, &c. Luke 4.42. Especially he cleanses a Leper, who notwithstanding our LORD's Prohibition, publishes every where this Mi∣racle, Matth. 8.1. Mark 1.40. Luke 5.12.

Being returned from this Circuit to Caper∣naum, he teaches near home, Cures one sick of the Palsie, born by four; Calls in (passing by) Levi, or Matthew, to the Apostleship, who makes him a great Feast, being accompanied with other Publicans; at which the Pharisees offended, were also displeased at his Disciples not Fasting, Matth. 9.1, &c. Mark 2.1, &c. Luke 5.17, &c.

The Feast of the Passover (Anno 32) drawing near, he goes up to Jerusalem, where he heals on the Sabbath-day the sick Person, which lay at the Pool of Bethesda, and justifies this Action, John 5.1, &c. Passing a while after thro' the Corn-Fields on the Sabbath-day, he excuses his Disciples for their having on that day plucked the Ears of the Corn, to satisfie (in some sort) their hunger, Matth. 12.1, &c. Mark. 2.23. Luke 6.1, &c. On another Sabbath, he heals in the Synagogue one one who had a witherd Hand; at which the Pharisees being offended con∣spire against him, together with the Herodi∣ans; on which account he retires towards the Sea, followed by a great Multitude, Matth. 12.9, &c. Mark 3.1, &c. Luke 6.6, &c. About this time he went apart into a Mountain to pray, after which he chose and establish'd his 12 Disciples, who had not as yet been called by this Name, Matth. 10.1, &c. Mark 3.13. Luke 6.13.

Coming down from the Mountain with them, he finds in the Plain a great Multi∣tude of People come from all parts to hear

him, and be healed by him, who were not sent away fruitless, Luke 6.17, &c. Scarce had he entred into an House, but the Multi∣tudes came and found him, and gave him not the leisure to eat Bread; so that his Relations came to disengage him, Mark 3.20, &c. He afterwards made that excellent Sermon on the Mount, which we read Matt. Chap. 5, 6, 7. Luke 6.20, &c. having finish'd it, he Cured the Centurions Servant, Matth. 8.5, &c. Luke 7.1, &c.

The next Morning he goes to Naum, where he restores the Widows Son to life, that was carried to be Buried, Luke 7.11, &c. Then S. John sends from Prison two of his Disciples to Christ (more for their Instru∣ction, than his own) with a Message, to know of him, Whether he was that to come, or whether they were to expect another? To which he fully satisfies them, and passes from thence to the praises of S. John, Matt. 11.2, &c. Luke 7.18, &c.

He is afterwards invited by Simon the Pharisee, where he defends against his Host, the proceeding of the Repenting Sinner, who had washed his Feet with her Tears, Luke 7.36, &c. After this he passes and Preaches from Town to Town, followed by his 12 Apostles, and some devout Women, who assisted him in what he wanted, Luke 8.1, &c. Curing one who was possest that was Deaf and Blind, he refutes the Calumny of the Scribes and Pharisees, come from Jerusalem; who accused him for Casting out Devils by Beelzebub, the Prince of the De∣vils, Matt. 12.22, &c. Mark. 3.22, &c. And to those who demanded of him a sign from Heaven, he offers no other than that of Jonas, Matt. 12.38, &c. As he ended this Discourse, he was told his Mother, and Brethren were at the Door, who would speak with him, to whom he answers, that he pre∣ferred his Spiritual Kindred before all Carnal Relations, Matt. 12.46, &c. Mark. 3.31, &c. Luke 8.19, &c.

Departing thence he sits down by the Sea∣side, and being gotten into a little Vessel, to be less crowded, he teaches the People by many Parables, who stood on the Shore, Matt. 13.1, &c. Mark 4.1, &c. Luke 8.4, &c. Night being come, having severely answer∣ed some, who would have followed him, he designs with his Disciples to pass to the other side of the Lake, Calming by his bare Word a great Tempest, which arose during the Night whilst he slept, Matt. 8.18, &c. Mark 4.35, &c. Luke 8.22, &c. So that he arrives in the Country of the Gadar••ns, where he casts out Devils from two Persons possest, (tho S. Mark and S. Luke speak but of one, being probably the most signal and furious) and permits the Evil Spirits to en∣ter into a Herd of Swine thereby feeding, and to precipitate them into the Sea, where∣upon the Inhabitants of the Country desire him to depart from them; those who were cured, publish all about Decapolis the benefit they had received, Matt. 8.28. Mark 5.1, &c. Luke 8.26, &c.

Hereupon he repasses the Lake, and comes to Capernaum, where he is received on the Shore-side by great numbers of People who expected him, Luke 8.40. and satisfies the Question asked by St John's Disciples, touching his not Fasting, Matt. 9.14, &c.

Jairus entreats him to come and visit his only Daughter, who was at the point of Death; and in going, the woman who was troubled with the Bloody Flux for twelve years, was healed by only touching the Hem of his Garment; and Jairus's Daughter being dead in the mean time, is raised to life by him, Matt. 9.18, &c. Mark 5.22. and Luke 8.41, &c. Coming from thence he gives sight to two Blind Persons, and cast ou•• an Evil Spirit from one that was Dumb, Matt. 9.27, &c.

Passing from one Town to another, he is again despised by those of Nazareth, who twit him with his being a Carpenter, Matt. 9.35. and 13.54, &c. Mark 6.1, &c. But being moved with compassion towards the Multitude, because the Harvest was great and the Labourers few, Matt. 9.35. He sends his 12 Apostles 2 by 2, to Preach and Heal the Sick in his Name, Matt. 10.1, &c. Mark 6.7, &c. Luke 9.1, &c. Then was St John Baptist Beheaded in Prison, and his Head given in a Charger to Herodias Daughter, by Herod's Order, who by a rash Oath found himself obliged to this Cruelty; and his Body is buried by his Disciples, who came and inform'd our Lord thereof, Matt. 14.1, &c. Mark 6.17, &c. Not long after, from what was nois'd of Jesus Christ, Herod is in perplexity, he being said to be John, who was risen from the dead, the truth of Heavenly passages being no where less known than at Court, Luke 9.7, 8, 9.

The Apostles return to our Saviour Christ, and relate to him the success of their Preach∣ing, and he, to procure them some rest, leads them aside, in a place near Bethsaida, where great Multitudes follow him, and ha∣ving instructed them, he feeds them to the number of 5000 Men, without reckoning the Women and Children, with 5 Loaves and 2 Fishes, Mat 14.13, &c. Mark 6.30, &c. Luke 9.10, &c. John 6.1, &c.

Knowing that the Multitude he had fed, projected to seize on him, and force him to be a King, he retires alone into a Mountain, obliges his Disciples to take Shipping, and to draw towards Capernaum; he comes to them at Midnight, walking on the Sea, St Peter obtains also to walk on the Water, but seized with Fear he sinks, Matt. 14.15, &c. Mark 6.35, &c. Luke 9.12, &c. John 6.1, &c. The next Morning the Multitudes whom he had fed, come to him at Caper∣naum, where to raise up their Minds from sensible Objects, he tells them of a Mysti∣cal Food, which nourishes to Eternal Life, namely the eating of his Body, and drink∣ing his Blood; at which they were most of them scandalized, understanding of an Oral manducation, what he meant of a Spiritual one, John 6.22, &c.

This hapning in Galilee a while before the Feast of the Passover, John 6.4. being Anno Christi 33. which was the Third of the Lords Ministry, there came Scribes and Pharisees from Jerusalem, who took offence at the Disciples eating with unwashed hands; but our Saviour herein justifies them, and condemns their Traditions, Matt. 15.1, &c. Mark 7.1, &c. After which he retires to∣wards the Frontiers of Tyre and Sidon, and casts out a Devil out of a Canaanitish Wo∣man's Daughter, Matt. 15.21, &c. Mark 7.24, &c. Then he returns towards the Sea of Galilee, cross the Country of Decapolis, where he cures a Deaf and Dumb Man, Mark 7.31, &c. And sitting near the Sea on a Mountain, he there heals several, Matt. 15.29, &c. Here he also at the same time miraculously fed about 4000 Men, without reckoning the Women and Children, with seven Loaves and some few Fishes, and there re∣mained of the Fragments seven Baskets full. From hence he comes by Water with his Disciples to Dalmanutha, in the Confines of Magdala, where the Scribes and Pharisees ask him again for a Sign, to whom he an∣swers, in reprehending their Hypocrisie, and offers them again the Sign of Jonas, Mat. 15.39. and 16.1. Mark 8.10, &c. He here again warns his Apostles to take heed of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees, and of Herod, Matth. 16.5, &c. Mark 8.14, &c.

He comes to Bethsaida, where he cures one that was Blind, who recovers by degrees his sight, Mark 8.22. and passes from thence to the Towns of Caesarea and Phillippi, and by the way asks his Disciples, what Men thought of him, and what their Opinion was also of him; and for the good Confession which S. Peter made in the Name of all the rest, he receives from him in their Name exquisit Promises, foretels them his Death and Resurrection, and calls St Peter Satan, because he would disswade him from his Suf∣ferings, Matt. 16.13, &c. Mark 8.27, &c. Luke 9.18, &c.

Eight days after, according to St Luke he is Transfigur'd on the Mount, in the pre∣sence of three of his most intimate Dis∣ciples, Peter, James, and John, talks there with Moses and Elias, and coming down thence explains to them how Elias was alrea∣dy come, Matt. 17.1, &c. Mark 9.1, &c. Luke 9.28, &c. The next morning returning to his Disciples, he finds them environ'd by a great Multitude, and he at his coming cast out a Devil from a Youth that was a Luna∣tick, whom his Disciples could not dispossess, Matt. 7.14, &c. Mark 9.14, &c. Luke 9.37, &c..

Being arrived at Capernaum, he pays the Tribute for himself, and S. Peter, Matt. 17.24. And knowing that his Disciples had contend∣ed in the way touching Superiority, he instruct∣ed them largely on this Subject, Matt. 18.1, &c. Mark 9.35, &c. Luke 9.46, &c.

Then the Feast of Tabernacles drawing nigh, he refuses his Company to his unbelieving Relations, in their journey to Jerusalem, on the account of this Solemnity; but he goes up after them, sending before them two of his Disciples; yet the Samaritans would not receive him. In this Journey he sends 70 of his Disciples round about. Being arrived at Jerusalem in the midst of the Feast, he teaches in the Temple; the Officers who are sent to take him, return without him, migh∣tily astonished at his Doctrine, Luke 9.51, &c. and 10.1, &c. John 7.1, &c.

Withdrawing at Night to the Mount of Olives, he returns the next morning early into the Temple, where an Adulteress is brought to him, and having sent her away with a Charge to Sin no more, he shews at large who he is; and the Jews taking up Stones to stone him, he retires for his securi∣ty, John 8.1, &c.

In passing by he sees and heals one born Blind on the Sabbath-day, using Clay tem∣pered with spittle for this purpose, which he having published, the Jews are offended at it; which occasions a large sequel of Cen∣sures and Instructions, John 9.1, &. and 10.1, &c.

The 70 Disciples return to him with Joy; he instructs a Doctor of the Law, who is our Neighbour; and enters into the House of Martha, who is much busied, whilst her Sister Mary attentively hears the Word, Luke 10.17, &c. Afterwards he teaches his Disci∣ples to pray; cures a Mute that was possest; a Woman cries out from the midst of the Crowd, That the Womb was blest that bore him, and he answers as heretofore, Luke 11.1, &c.

A Pharisee invites him to Dinner, where he censures the Pride and Covetousness of that sort of People, Luke 11.37, &c. He again warns his Disciples to take care of the Leaven of Hypocrisy, refuses to divide the Succession between two contending Brethren, and gives on this occasion several excellent instructions, Luke 12.1, &c.

On what is reported to him touching the Galileans, who apparently were of the Sect of Judas Gaulonite, whose Blood Pilate's Hand mingled with their Sacrifices, he ex∣horts every one to Repentance; heals in the Synagogue on the Sabbath-day a Woman, distempered 18 years; answers the question, Whether there would be many saved, and shews he little matters the Threatnings of Herod, Luke 13.1, &c.

In his way towards Jerusalem, Luke 13.22. he goes into a Pharisees House, to refresh himself, cures one troubled with a Dropsie▪ on the Sabbath-day, and as well at Table, as elsewhere, he sows the Seed of Divine In∣structions, Luke Chapters 13, 14, 15, 16. His Disciples ask of him an encrease of their Faith, and are advised by him always, to esteem themselves unprofitable Servants. He cleanses ten Lepers in passing through Samaria, exhorts to pray always, and offers a Parable of the Pharisee and Publican, Luke 17.1, &c. and 18.1, &c.

Being come to Jerusalem, in the Feast of the Dedications, he declares himself to be the Messias, and of one and the same Essence with the Father, whereupon the Jews would have laid hands on him; but he avoids them, John 10.22, &c. This makes him leave Jerusalem to go beyond Jordan, where St John had first Baptized; where several came to him; and the Pharisees Interrogate him touching Divorces, John 10.40, &c. Matt. 19.1, &c. Mark 10.1, &c.

Little Children are brought to him, which he would not have hindred; and the young Man, who asks him what he should do to inherit Eternal life, and gloryed in his exact observation of the Law, goes away sad, Matt. 19.13, &c. Mark 10.13, &c. Luke 18.15, &c.

Lazarus in the mean time falls Sick and dies; our Lord determines to return into Judea, and there raises the Dead, which be∣ing known at Jerusalem, the Chief Priests and Pharisees, under the Authority of Caiphas, re∣solve to get rid of him; whereupon he re∣treats toward the Desart, in a City nam'd Ephraim, John 11.1, &c.

Yet the Feast of the Passover approaching, John 11.55. (it being the 4th of his Mini∣stry, and in Anno Christi 34) he takes his way towards Jerusalem, foretelling his Apostles what would happen to him, Matt. 20.17, &c. Mark 10.32. Luke 18.31.

The Sons of Zebedee, in the way, discourse of high things, and desire one might sit at his Right hand, and the other at his Left, at which the other Apostles are offended, and are by their common Master reduced to humility, Mat. 20.20, &c. Mark 10.35.

Coming to Jericho, he restores sight to one that was blind, Luk. 18.35. in the Town Zacheus a Publican receives him into his House, Luke 19 1, &c. Going out thence followed by a great Multitude, he gives sight to 2 that were Blind, one of which was Bar∣timaeus, Matt. 20.29, &c. Mark 10.52. And the nearer he draws to Jerusalem, the more he applies himself to undeceive his Disciples touching the near approaches of his Kingdom, Luke 19.11, &c. In fine, 6 days be∣fore the Passover he comes to Bethany, John 12.1. and at the Feast which is made there for him, he is Anointed by Mary with a pre∣cious Oyntment (tho to Judas great trouble)

in order to his Burial, Mat. 26.6. Mark 14.3. John 12.2, &c.

Whilst the Chief Priests deliberate to put him and Lazarus to death with him, John 12.11. And Judas at the instigation of the Devil treats him and agrees with them to de∣liver him to them, Matth. 26.14. Mark 14.10. Luke 22.1, &c. he makes his Trium∣phant entrance into Jerusalem, mounted on the Foal of an Ass, with the joyful Acclama∣tions of Hosanna, wherewith the Multitude made the Air resound, Matt. 21.1, &c. Mark 11.1, &c. Luke 19.28, &c. John 12.19, &c. As he drew near to the City he wept over it, Luke 19.41. He goes directly to the Temple, whence he drives out the Buyers and Sellers, and cures there the Lame and Blind, Matth. 21.12, &c. Mark 11.15. Luke 19.45. Some Greeks desire to see him; a Voice comes from Heaven to him, and he speaks of his exaltation on the Cross to draw all Men to him, to the evident conviction of the Incre∣dulity of the Jews, and thereupon returns to Bethany, John 12.20, &c. The next morn∣ing returning to Jerusalem, he was an hungry, and curs'd the Fig-Tree which had no Leaves nor Fruit, Matt. 21.18. Mark 11.12. At Night he went out of the Town; and the next Morning returning, his Disciples obser∣ved that the Fig Tree which he had curs'd the day before, was dry; on occasion of which he describes the efficacy of Faith. Being en∣tred into the Temple, and teaching as before, the Chief Priests and Scribes ask him, By what Authority he did these things; disdaining to answer them, he evades them by a Counter∣question touching the Baptism of John, which they refuse to satisfy, and offers them on this Subject some Parables which concerned the rejection of the Jews, and the vocation of the Gentiles, Matt. 21.19, &c. Mark 11.20, &c. Luke 20.1, &c.

Then the Pharisees and Herodians endeavour to catch him in discourse, by the question, Whether Tribute ought to be given to Caesar; the Sadducees Interrogate him touching the Woman who had seven Brethren successively to her Husbands, whose Wife she should be in the Resurrection. A Doctor of the Law asks him which was the chief Command∣ment; and he perplexes them in his turn, by demanding of them whose Son the Messias should be, Matt. 22.15, &c. Mark 12.13, &c. Luke 20.20. After these Questions, he instructs his Disciples, and other Auditors, touching the Scribes and Pharisees; reproa∣ches Jerusalem with its Cruelty and Incre∣dulity, and denounces her Ruin, Matt. 23.1, &c. Mark 12.38, &c. Luke 20.45, &c. Then sitting near the Box, he observes that a poor Widow, who had only cast in 2 Mites, had yet given more than the Richest, Mark 12.41. Luke 21.1.

His Disciples shewing him at his going out of the Temple, the magnificence and firm∣ness of its Building, he foretold the entire Ruin of it; and to the two Questions they make him on this matter, when this should happen, and what should be the signs of his last coming, he sufficiently satisfies them in both, and exhorts them to Watchfulness by divers Parables, Matt. Chap. 24, 25. Mark 13.1, &c. Luke 21.5, &c.

Thus happens the 4th and last Passover of the Ministry of Jesus Christ, in which our true Passover was sacrificed for us.

Thursday at Night (as we reckon and call the days of the Week, and 'twas according to the Jews the beginning of Friday) hav∣ing sent two of his Disciples to prepare him the Passover, he eat it with them, anticipa∣ting by a day that of the Jews, who this year, by an old Custom, remitted theirs to the Saturday following, or to the Sabbath, Matt. 26.17. Mark 14.12. Luke 22.7, &c. John 13.1. and 18.28.

In this last Passover he declares, being at Table, that Judas would betray him: he washes his Apostles Feet; institutes the Sacra∣ment of his Last Supper; bid Judas, in giving him the Sop, that he would do what he was to do quickly, as in effect he soon went out. He prepares his Disciples for Suffering, and the approaching Temptation, advertizes St Peter of his approaching Fall; disposes them all to part with him; by the Promise of the Comforter, Matth. 26.20, &c. Mark 14.18, &c. Luke 22.19, &c. John Chap. 13, and 14. And having sang the Hymn, Matt. 26.30. Mark 14.26. he made to his Disciples the weighty Discourse in the 15 and 16th Chapters of St John, and offered to his Father the excellent Prayer, which is recited John 17. He goes out with his XI towards the Mount of Olives, to the place named Gethsemane, there he exhorts them to watch and pray; walks farther: carrying with him Peter, James, and John, and leaving these three a Stones cast off, he prays ardently 3 times, that the Cup might

be removed from him; and finding himself inexpressibly disconsolate, and in unconceiv∣able anguish, he is strengthened by an Angel in his Agonies, and his Sweat was changed into Drops of Blood: He wakes 3 several times his drowzy Disciples, Judas, who for 30 pieces of Silver, had made himself a Guide and Leader of those who were sent to take him, shews him them by a Kiss. Those who were to seize on him, fall down with Fear; his Disciples would have been on the defence, and especially S. Peter, who cuts off Malchus's Ear. Our LORD bids him put up his Sword into his Sheath, heals the Wound with a touch, and reproaching those who came to lay Hands on him, with the violence of their proceeding, he suffers him∣self to be led by them, Matth. 26.31, &c. Mark 14.27, &c. Luke 22.39, &c. John 18.1, &c. Then his Disciples abandon him and fly, and a young Man (who apparently went out, to see what was the matter) having only a Linnen Cloath about him, would have been seized on by these Souldiers, had not he run a∣way Naked out of their hands, Matth. 56.46. Mark 14.50, &c.

Thus was he carried Prisoner about Mid∣night, to Annas, Father-in-Law to Caiphas; who causes him to be led to his Son-in-Law, who was Chief Priest for that year. He is here examin'd; several false Witnesses are produced against him, and on his Confession of being the Christ the Son of GOD, he is judged worthy of Death, beaten, buffetted, spit on, and otherwise ill used, Matt. 26.57, &c. Mark 14.53, &c. Luke 22.54, &c. John 18.12, &c.

S. Peter following afar off, and by means of another Disciple, who had access to Caiphas, was entred into the House, but accused succes∣sively by 3 distinct persons, to be also one of Jesus Disciples; he vehemently denies it 3 times, after which the Cock having Crow'd for the 3d time, and our Saviour having look'd back in this instant, he went out and wept bitterly, Matt. 26.69, &c. Mark 14.66, &c. Luke 22.54, &c. John 18.15, &c.

At length Day appears, and to observe some formality, the whole Senate of the Na∣tion is convocated by Caiphas, where our Sa∣viour persisting in his first Confession, his Condemnation is also confirm'd and reiterated, Matt. 27.1, &c. Mark 15.1, &c. Luke 22.66, &c. Immediately then they led him in a full body to Pilate, the Governour of Judea under Ti∣berius, to obtain his Condemnation and Exe∣cution. Pilate searches all ways to excuse him∣self from it, he declares him Innocent, offers to release him at the Feast; knowing that he was a Galilean he sends him to Herod, who came on the account of the Feast of Jerusa∣lem, who having not drawn from him what he expected, sends him back with Contempt. Pilate's Wife sends word to her Husband, conjuring him to have nothing to do with him; but he (to satisfie the Jews) condemns him to be Scourg'd, and makes him then to be brought before them cloath'd in Purple, and wearing on his Head a Crown of Thorns. But the People cry out, that Barabbas should be released, and Jesus Crucified; which in fine Pilate grants, and having again made him be Scourg'd after the Roman manner, he delivers him to the cruel Death of the Cross, and the Insultings of his Souldiers, who again array him with Purple, and put on him a Crown of Thorns: And they being more weary of Affronting him, than he of enduring their cruel Usages, they give him again his own Cloaths, and load him with his Cross, and thus led him to the place of his Punishment, Matt. 27.11, &c. Mark 15.1, &c. Luke 23.1, &c. John 18.28, &c. and 19.1, &c.

Judas seeing him Condemn'd, was touch'd with Remorse, for having betray'd Innocent Blood; restores the Money he had receiv'd, which the Priests lay out in purchasing a Field for the burying of Strangers, and he goes and Hangs himself, Matt. 27.3. Acts 1.18.

It was about Noon when he was led out of the Town, bearing his Cross. Simon the Cyre∣nian returning from the Fields, is constrain'd by the Souldiers to assist him. He refuses the mixt Wine which is offer'd him, to make him less sensible of the Dolours; and is Crucified between 2 Thieves at Calvary. His Execu∣tioners divide his Garments, and cast Lots, who should have his Vest, which was all of one piece. He is expos'd to the verbal and real Insults of all, even of the Malefa∣ctors Crucified with him, or at least of one of them; for one reprehended the other, and obtain'd a Promise of the LORD, to be that day with him in Paradice. On the Cross, he recommends his Mother to S. John, prays for his Enemies, who knew not what they did, cries out to GOD in his Dolours, says (after he had tasted Vinegar, which was offered him on his Cross) that all was accomplish'd, recommends his Spirit to GOD, and expires; having cast

forth a great Cry, about 3 Hours in the After∣noon, and near the time when was offered in the Temple the perpetual Sacrifice, and when the Jews slew the Paschal Lamb between the 2 Evenings, to eat it at Night, Matt. 27.28, &c. Mark 15.16, &c. Luke 23.26, &c. Joh. 19.16, &c.

Divers Prodigies hapned at his Death, the light of the Sun was supernaturally Eclips'd, (for it was in the time of the Full Moon) at Mid-day, and the Darkness which hapned by his obscurity lasted 3 Hours. The Veil of the Temple was rent from top to bottom, the Earth shook, the Stones clave, the Graves opened, from whence several of the Saints arose, and appear'd to many in the City, Matt. 27.45, and 51, &c. Mark 15.33, 38. Luke 23.44, 45. These Miraculous Events drew from the Mouth of the Centurion this Confession. that He was truly the Son of GOD, Mat 27.54. Mark 15.39. Luke 23.47.

The Jews desirous the Condemned Persons might not remain on the Cross the Sabbath-day, which was also that of their Passover, request of Pilate, that their Legs might be broken, to hasten their Death; which being granted, the Souldiers break the Legs of the 2 others, but do not thus to our LORD, be∣cause they found him already dead; but one of the Souldiers pierced his side with a Spear, whence there issued out Blood and Water, John 19.31, &c.

Joseph of Arimathea knowing he was dead, requests his Body of Pilate to bury it; which having obtain'd, Nicodemus joyn'd himself to him in this happy work, and wrapping up his precious Body in a Linnen-Cloth, with some Aromatick Drugs, they hastily laid him in a new Sepulchre, cut in a Garden near the Town, Matt. 27.57, &c. Mark 15.42, &c. Luke 23.50, &c. John 19.38, &c. The next Morning thro the diligence of the Jews, and by Pilate's order the Sepulchre is Sealed and Guarded, to hinder his Disciples from carrying away his Body, Math. 27.62, &c.

Thus our LORD being laid in the Sepulchre about 4 in the afternoon, past there the whole Sabbath of 24 Hours, and arose thence the day following at Sun-rising. Then Mary Mag∣dalen the Mother of James the lesser, Saloma the Mother of Zebedee, and some other devout Women, who had followed him from Galilee, Matth. 28.1. Mark 16.1. Luke 23.55. Joh. 20.1. go out early in the morning with Aromatick Drugs to embalm him; but being come near the Sepulchre, as the Sun was up, they found the Stone which covered it, was removed; which was done by the Angel of the LORD, to render this Service to our Saviour, rising Victorious with a great Earthquake, which (with the Apparition of the Angels) so af∣frighted the Souldiers that guarded the Tomb, that they became like Dead Men. Mary Mag∣dalen presently suspects, seeing the Sepulchre open, that the LORD's Body was taken away, and returns immediately into the Town, to give notice of it to his Disc••ples. But in the mean time the other holy Women are informed of the Angel that he was risen, and are ordered to carry the News to St. Peter and the rest: Whereupon Peter and John ran to the Sepul∣chre, and found not the Body there; and whilst they return, Mary Magdalen persisting in her thought, sits down crying near the Sepulchre, where first 2 Angels appear to her, who demand the cause of her Tears; the like did our Savi∣our, whom she took at first for the Gardiner, but making himself more distinctly known, she hears him (full of Joy and Consolation) to bid her go and tell the Apostles. And this was the first Appearance of our LORD after his Resurrection, Matt. 28.1, &c. Mark 16.1, &c. Luke 24.1, &c. John 20.1, &c. So that what S. Matthew says of these holy Women in general, Matt. 28.29. must be understood singularly of her. In the same day he shewed himself to 2 of his Disciples, one of which was called Cleophas, and the other (as 'tis thought) was Luke, who went to Emaus, where they knew him in the Breaking of Bread, Mark 16.12, 13. Luke 24.13. And in the Evening our Saviour appeared in the midst of all the Apostles, except Thomas, saying to them Peace be with you. Then he did eat with them, and breathed on them, to communicate to them his Holy Spirit, and to confirm them in the Mini∣stry of Reconciliation, which he had promised before his Sufferings, Mark 16.14. Luke 24.36. John 20.19, &c. 8 Days after our Saviour (as it were) to consecrate particularly to him∣self this 1st Day of the week, and substitute it to the Jewish Sabbath) appeared again to the 11, and convinc'd Thomas of his Incredulity, John 20.24, &c.

The Apostles having left Jerusalem, to re∣turn into Galilee, according to our LORD's Order, he shew'd himself again near the Sea of Tiberias to 7 of them, which were Peter, Thomas, James, and John the Sons of Zebedee, Nathaniel, and 2 others; and from the Shoar

he procured them a great Draught of Fishes for which they had fruitlesly toyl'd all Night. Whereupon Peter knew him and cast himself half-naked into the Sea, to come the sooner to him. Coming all to Land they see there Fish a dressing, whereto he bid them to joyn some of their Fish, and makes them dine with him. After Dinner he draws from Peter a threefold profession of his Love, to oppose it to his triple Denial of him, and re-establishes him 3 times in the Office from which he seem'd to have fallen; obscurely foretold him, that he shoud be Crucified in his old Age, and would not have him concern himself with what would become of John, and this was the 3d time he shewed himself to his Disciples, John 21.

Since the XI had betaken themselves to the Mountain, which he had appointed them; they saw him, worshipt him, and there received a more particular Explication of their Commis∣sion, for the Preaching of the Gospel, and Ad∣ministration of Baptism, in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Matt. 28.16, &c. Mark 16.15, &c.

S. Paul also speaks of divers Appearances of the LORD, after his Resurrection, and amongst others, that he had particularly appeared to Peter and James the lesser, and twice to the whole Assembly of the Apostles, and another time to 500 Brethren together, 1. Cor. 15.5, 6, 7. which seems to have been in the Mountain, which the LORD indicated.

For 40 Days together, he at several times Communed familiarly with them, with incon∣testable Proofs of the truth of his Resurrection, Acts 1.3, 10, 41, that they might be Witnesses of it to all People over all the World. It appears from Antiquity, that Pilate had in∣form'd the Emperor Tiberius of this, who pro∣posed to the Senate, the putting our Saviours Image amongst the number of the Gods; and tho Divine Providence hindered the Senate from doing it, yet the Emperour expresly for∣bad the Christians to be Persecuted. At the end of these 40 Days having Assembled them at Jerusalem, he ordered them not to remove thence till they had received the Holy Spirit; and finding them still possest with an opinion of his Earthly Reign he turned their thoughts from it, forbidding them to enquire of the Time and Seasons which GOD had kept in his own power, and goeth out with them to∣wards Bethany, to the Mount of Olives, where having blest them, he was lifted up from them into Heaven, being supported by a Cloud, and thus received into his Glory, Luke 24.49, &c. Acts 1.4, &c. And as they beheld him ascend∣ing, 2 Angels appeared to them, assuring them he should one day descend in like manner, as they now saw him ascend, Acts 1.11.

10 Days after our LORD's Ascension, in the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was sensibly given to the Apostles, by the gift of Languages; and the same day, at the first Preaching of Peter, 3000 Men were converted to the Faith of Christ, and Baptized in his Name, Acts 2.1, &c. And these were the beginings of the Christian Church of Jerusalem, which (by the agreement of its Members, their Charity, Union and Assiduity in exercises of Piety) every day increased, Acts 2.42, &c.

Some time after, one Lame from his Birth, about 40 years of Age, was miraculously cured by S. Peter, and S. John; the relation of which is treated of in the 214th Discourse.

The Union of the Church is powerfully maintain'd, and all things are had in Common, if not in possession, yet in use amongst her Members, there being no Indigent Person amongst them: Such as had Houses or Lands, sold them, and brought the Price and laid it at the Apostles Feet, to be distributed to every one according to his Necessity, as was done particularly by Barnabas the Levite, but born in Cyprus, whose Zeal and Piety was signal afterwards in the propagation of the Gospel. But Ananias, and Saphira his Wife, having dealt hypocritically in a like occasion, by bringing but half of the Price which they had received for the Inheritance, and yet affirming they had sold it for no more, were both punish'd by sudden Death at S. Peter's word, Acts 4.32, &c. And as the Apostles daily persevered in Solomon's Porch, and signaliz'd themselves by divers Miracles, to such a degree, that the Sick (over which past the Shadow of S. Peter) were healed, and that from all the Country there∣abouts People came flocking to them, the High Priest, chief of the Sadducean Party, and those of his Faction, made the Apostles be appre∣hended, and confined in the publick Prison, whom an Angel delivers thence in the Night, and the Council sending thither in the Morn∣ing for them, they found the Prison Doors fast, and the Watch set, but the Prisoners gone, who were at the Temple doing their Office; where the Captain goes to fetch them, but without violence. Interrogated by the Council, they remain fearless, and 'tis deliberated to put them to death; but Gamaliel, who was a Pha∣risee,

and in Authority, stops this design, telling them, That if the Preaching were of Men, it would come to nothing; but if of GOD, to take heed not to oppose him. Upon this Advice they were Scourg'd and Releast, with a Charge, to speak no more in the Name of JESUS; but they give Thanks to GOD, for having suffer'd thus much for his Glory, and continue doing their Duty, Acts 5.17.

Thus past the 34th Year of our LORD, which concurr'd with the 19th of Tiberius. We may refer to the 35th, the Contention which hapned between the Hebrews and Greeks, who were yet equally Jews, differing only by Birth and Language, which had for a long time produc'd the Seed of an old Emulation. For the preventing of this Disorder 7 Deacons were established, who should take care of the Poor and Widows of both sides. These were Stephen, Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Par∣menas, and Nicholas, the last of which was a Proselite. And it appears from their Greek Names, that in this Choice there was more regard had to the Greeks, than the Hebrews, Acts 6.1, &c. 'Tis likely this 35th Year was past very peaceably by the Church, which greatly multiplied at Jerusalem, even to that degree, that several Priests became obedient to the Faith. In the mean time S. Stephen grew famous for his Piety, his Miracles, and Zeal, and was every day disputing with the Hellenists or Greeks, for the truth of the Gospel; but in fine, these unhappy People Libertins, Cyrenians, Alexandrians, Cilicians, and Asiaticks, being not able to resist his Wisdom, they suborn'd false Witnesses against him, who accuse him of Blasphemy against Moses, against the Temple, and against GOD. Appearing on this Accu∣sation before the Council, he defends himself by a long and earnest Apology; at the con∣clusion of which, he is drawn by these mad Zealots out of the Town, and cruelly Stoned; Saul keeping the Cloaths of the false Witnesses, who were to cast the first Stones at him, Acts 6.7, &c. and 7.1, &c.

In the 20th Year of Tiberius, died Philip the Tetrarch of Iturium, who leaving no Chil∣dren, his place was reduc'd to the Government of Syria, which Vetellius obtained in that time; who having taken away the Prelacy from Caiphas, to give it to John, or Jonathas his Brother-in-Law, he translated it from him, and conferr'd it on Theophilus his Brother.

Pontius Pilate being accused before the same Vitellius, for the Murther of some Samaritans, is sent for to Rome, to clear himself; and tho Tiberius died whilst he was in the way, Caligula his Successor banisht him to Vienna in Dauphiny, where being opprest with the con∣sciousness of his Crimes and Calamities, he kill'd himself.

The Persecution began by the Death of S. Stephen, in the Year 36; it grew so violent by the Fury of Saul, and others, that it caus'd a great dispersion of the Church of Jerusalem, of which the Chief Members, (excepting the Apostles) search'd their Retreat, some in the other Towns of Judea, others in those of Sa∣maria, which yet turned to the propagation of the Gospel, Acts 8.1, &c. and 11.19. By this means Philip, one of the 7 Deacons and Ste∣phen's Partner, Preaches the Gospel at Samaria, where several are Converted to the Faith, and Baptiz'd, and amongst others Simon the Ma∣gician, which the Apostles having heard, they sent thither Peter and John from Jerusalem, at whose Prayers, and by the Imposition of their Hands, the Holy Spirit is conferred on the Samaritans; Simon the Magician offers Mony to purchase the Means of doing the same; which the Apostle rejects with indignation, declaring to this profane Wretch, That he had no part in this, because his Heart was not right before GOD, Acts 8.14, &c.

Whilst the Apostles sowed the Seed of the Gospel in Samaria, in their way to Jerusalem, Philip was sent from GOD into the High way of Jerusalem to Gaza, where he meets with an Ethiopian, and Eunuch, and Officer to Candace Queen of Ethiopia, who returning from Jeru∣salem into his own Country, read the Scripture in his Chariot. Philip joyned himself to him, expounds the Passage he read in Isaiah, and shewed him it related to our Saviour. The sequel of which is se•• forth in the 217th Dis∣course, on the Eunuch Baptized, Acts 8.

In like manner also some of this Dispersion went to Damascus, as Ananias, Acts 9.19.25. and 22.12; others into Phenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and announced the Gospel every where to those of that Nation; and some Cypriots and Syrenians, spake of it with success also to the Gentiles of Antioch, Acts 11.19. Some went even as far as Rome, as Andronicus and Junias, Paul's Kinsmen, but Converted to Christ be∣fore him, Romans 16.7.

Yet did not the Persecution cease at Jeru∣salem; and Saul having furiously made havock of the Church there demands a Commission to go into Damascus, to bring bound all those

whom he should find making Profession of Believing in Christ: But he is miraculously Converted in the Way, as is at large taken notice of in the 218th Discourse, viz. The Conversion of S. Paul, Acts 9.

A while after these things past in the East, Tiberius dies in the 23d year of his Empire, and Caius Caligula succeeds him; so that the 23d of him and the 1st of this, concur with the 37th of our LORD. Herod Agrippa, the Son of Aristobulus, and Grandson of the first Herod, termed the Great, is by Caligula made King of Judea. Herod Antipas (who a while before was defeated by Aretas, King of Arabia Petrea, and who kept a Garrison at Damascus, enraged he had repudiated his Daughter, to espouse Herodias his Sister-in-Law, at the sollicitation of his Wife) jealous at the un∣expected Greatness of the other, goeth to Rome, to sue there also for the Title of King; but Agrippa his Nephew, and his Brother-in-Law together, to hinder his success, accuse him to Caligula of divers Crimes, for which he is stript of his Tetrarchy, which is added to what the other possest, and with his Herodias is banisht to Lyons.

Paul being Converted to Christ about the year 38, and 2 years before the Death of Ti∣berius (in which time Josephus the Jewish Historian was born) had began to Preach the Gospel at Damascus, with as much Astonish∣ment on one hand, as Efficacy on the other; and after a Voyage into Arabia, for the same purpose, Gal. 1.17. being returned, the Jews who were Enemies of the Gospel, favoured by the Governor, had done him mischief, had not the Faithful let him down by Night from the Wall in a Basket, Acts 9.20, &c. 2 Cor. 11.32, 33. Being thus got out of Damascus, 3 years after his Conversion, he comes to Jerusalom, and by the Mediation of Barnabas, he visits there only S. Peter, and James the Brother of our Lord, commonly termed the Lesser, and tarried only 15 Days, which did not pass without Disputation with the Greeks, and danger of his Life. He re∣ceived in the Temple (as he Prayed) an ex∣press Command to go and Preach the Gospel to the Gentiles; and therefore the Brethren conducted him to Caesarea, and from thence sent him to Tarsus, which was his Country, Acts 9.26, &c. and 22.17, &c. Gal. 17.18, 19.

After this Conversion, and by the Revolu∣tions hapning in the Empire, and in Judea, the Persecution stopt there, and the Churches of Judea, Galilee, and Samaria flourished and were calm. And it was perhaps Cali∣gula's first year, when Peter Visiting the Churches, cured at Lydia the Paralitick Aeneas, and raised up Tabbitha at Joppa, where he remained a long time at Simon the Tanners, Acts 9.31.

Then also Cornelius the Centurion, a de∣vout Man, and one that feared GOD, tho' a Gentile, was advertized by an Angel to send for Peter at Joppa, to be instructed by him. The Apostle being prepared for this Journy by a Vision, which tended not to make him stand on distinctions of Jew or Gentile, he went without difficulty, attended with some of the Brethren; and was received by Corne∣lius with too great Respect, which he refuses: At the hearing of the Gospel Preached, he and those that are with him receive the Holy Spirit, and are Baptiz'd in the Name of the LORD, Acts 10.1, &c. Peter being return'd to Jerusalem, is obliged to give an account of this Action, which some reprehended; but they were all satisfied at the Report he made them, and praised GOD, Acts 11.1, &c.

Whilst these things past in Palistine, and Paul Preaches in Arabia and Damascus, Cali∣gula Deifies himself, and makes himself the Priest to his own Godhead, associating his Horse in his godly Religion; He uses the Alexandrian Jews very roughly, for not ac∣knowledging him a God, and resolves by force to make his Image be set up in the Temple of Jerusalem, to be there served and worshiped; which yet he could not obtain. Barnabas was sent by the Apostles to Antioch, to take cognizance of the condition of the Church there, to the Edification of which he gave great Assistance, Acts 11.22, &c. At the same time the Prophet Agabus, being come down from Jerusalem to Antioch, foretold the future Famine, which hapned since under the Empire of Claudius in the 4th year, and this Prediction obliged the Churches to make Col∣lections for the Brethren of Judea, which were in a fit time sent by Barnabas and Saul, Acts 11.27.

Barnabas seeing at Antioch the Harvest great, goes to search for Paul at Tarsus, and brings him, where they Sojourned a year, to the great Edification of the Church in this place: And in this time it was when the Disciples were first called Christians, Acts 11.25, 26. In fine, Caligula was killed, more

worthy of the Name of Monster, than that of Man; and Claudius his Unkle, the Son of Dru∣sus, succeeds him with Fear; but Herod Agrippa encouraging him, obtained by this means his Favor as he had possest that of his Predeces∣sor, so that he confirm'd to him, and even much encreast his Power and Authority. Thus the 4th of Caligula, and the 1st of Claudius concur with the 41st of our Lord.

Herod being returned into Judea with this increase of Power and Honour, in the 2d year of Claudius, and 42d of Christ, he did many Acts of Jewish Devotion, and caused a Chain of Gold, which he had received from Cali∣gula (instead of an Iron one, wherewith Tibe∣rius had fastned him) to be hung up in the Sanctuary. But he began to persecute the Church, and put to death James the Major, the Son of Zebedee; and seeing that this pleased the Jews, he imprisoned also Peter, with design to bring him forth to the Slaugh∣ter, after the Feast of the Passover; but when he was to be drawn forth to Punishment, the Angel of the Lord miraculously delivered him from Prison, making the Gates open of themselves before him. The particulars of which is taken notice of in the 220 discourse, viz St Peter's delivery out of Prison.

It's held that St Matthew wrote his Gospel about this time, as under the particular In∣spiration of the Holy Spirit, so by the com∣mon Advice of the other Apostles, for the In∣struction of those of the Circumcision, who had believ'd. And tho several have been per∣swaded that he wrote it in Hebrew, but that by himself or some other it was since Tran∣slated into Greek, such as we have it, yet may we with greater likelihood of Truth say, that he himself wrote it in Greek, because the number of the Hellenist Jews converted to the Faith, was at first greater than that of the Hebrews, witness the first 7 Deacons being taken thence. At the same time Herod who had taken away the High Priesthood from Theophilus, to confer it on Simon Canthara, takes it also from him to give it to Jonathas, the Son of Annas, who refuses it through Modesty, and recommends to the King his Bro∣ther Matthias, who had it.

Herod after this, and in the year 43 goeth to reside at Caesarea, and designing to make War on the Tyrians and Sidonians, they found means to appease him by the Media∣tion of Blaflus, his Chamberlain, because they drew all their Provision from the Kings Country, and then hapned the Famine foretold by Agabus. On occasion of which Treaty of Peace, giving several Spectacles to the Peo∣ple, he also would needs harangue them from the Tribunal, where he sat Mrgnificently Cloathed, and his Flatterers to applaud him, extolling the Majesty and Eloquence of his Discourse, cried out, 'Twas the Voice of GOD, and not of Man; An Angel therefore struck him, for not giving Glory to GOD, nor re∣prehending these impious Acclamations, and he died gnawed with Worms, Acts 12.19, &c. Josephus also recites the Death of this Prince conformably to what St Luke says of it, but he relates more circumstances, Lib. 19 Antiq. of the Jews, the last Chapter.

Barnabas and Saul had timely brought some small time before Herod began to rage against the Apostles, the Collection made in the Church of Antioch for the Poor of Judea, to succour them in the approaching Famine foretold by Agabus, and which seemed now to be at the Door. From Jerusalem they returned to Antioch, bringing with them S. John, surnamed Mark, who is thought to be the Evangelist, bearing this name, and who perhaps was as well as St Luke of the number of the LXX, Acts 11.29, 30, & 12.25.

As they attended their Ministry with their Fellow-Labourers in the Church, Simeon, who was call'd Niger, Lucius the Cyrenian, who is thought to have been St Luke the Evange∣list, and Manahem, who had been brought up with Herod the Tetrarch, the Holy Spirit designed them for an Employ of greater ex∣tent, for which they set out accompanied with John, and attended by the Prayers of the rest, about the 4th year of the Empire of Claudius, and the 44th of our Lord, and come to Seleucia, whence embarking they come down to Cyprus, the Country of Barnabas, and begin to Preach the Gospel at Salanus, Acts 13.1, 2, 3. In traversing the Isle they arrive at Paphos, where Sergius Paulus the Pro-Consul had his residence, who desired to hear them; but a False Prophet, a Jew, named Barjesu, and surnamed Elymas, that is, Magician or Enchanter, endeavour'd to hinder him. Paul who now leaves the name of Saul, whether in remembrance of the Conversion of the Pro-Consul, or for the sound sake of his Name, by the change of the first Letter to the Greek and Latin Pronunciation, vigorously opposes this Impostor, and denounces to him a sud∣den Blindness, wherewith he was immediately

struck, which occasioned the Pro-Consul's Conversion, Acts 13.6, &c. Departing from Cyprus they come to Perga of Pamphilia, where John, surnamed Mark, leaves them to return to Jerusalem, Acts 13.13. From Perga they came to Antioch of Pisidia, where being entered into the Synagogue on the Sab∣bath-day, they are desired after the Reading of the Law and the Prophets, to preach to the People; which Paul did by a long and grave discourse. The Gentiles at their go∣ing out, entreat them to Preach the same things the next Sabbath-day; in which al∣most the whole Town assembled to hear the Word of GOD. The Jews endeavour to con∣tradict them; but they declare that on their refusal, by which they made themselves un∣worthy of Eternal Life, they would hence∣forward address themselves to the Gentiles, who receiv'd this News with great Joy, and as many of them as believed were ordained to Eternal Life. Yet the Jews having gain'd some of their bigotted Proselytes, they stirr'd up a Persecution against these two faithful Mi∣nisters of Jesus Christ, who having shak'd the Dust of their Feet against their Persecutors, and left their Disciples much comforted, they past to Iconium, a City of Lycaonia, Acts 13.14, &c. Being enter'd there in the Synagogue, they spake with such efficacy, that several, as well Jews as Greeks, believed in the Lord. They made a considerable stay here, and sig∣naliz'd themselves by several Miracles. On this occasion two Parties are formed in the Town, one for them, and another for the Jews: But on the Point, when those latter, (strengthened by the most powerful) design'd to mischief them, they fled to Lystra and Derbe, and the Quarters thereabouts, where they Preach the Gospel, Acts 14.1, &c. It's thought then was brought over to Christ S. Thecla, an Ironean Virgin, very famous at that time in the Church, tho the Acts which bore her Name are held for Apocryphal. At Lystra, a man Lame from his Birth, having been miraculously cured by them, the people of the place take them for Gods, calling Bar∣nabas, Jupiter, and Paul, Mercury, because he spake most, and would needs sacrifice to them, which they refuse with the greatest aversion, beseeching them to turn from these vain Idols to the living GOD. But certain obstinate Jews, which came from Antioch and Iconia to oppose them, stirr'd up the Populacy against them, who begin now to fling Stones at them; and drew Paul out of the Town as dead, yet being environ'd by the Disciples he comes to himself, rises up and enters again into the Town, Acts 14.8, &c.

Those who refer the date of the 2d of the Corinthians to the 4th of Nero, pretend that in this year, and perhaps in this place, hapned the Ravishment of Paul up into the Third Heaven, which was 14 years before, as he declares it, 2 Cor. 12.2, 3, 4.

From Lystra they come to Derbe, where having instructed several, they returned back to Lystra, Iconia, and Antioch of Pisidia, esta∣blishing in all the Churches Governours and Pastors. Passing thro Pamphilia, they Preach at Perga, descend to Attalia, and thence Em∣bark for Antioch, where they relate what GOD had done by them in the Calling of the Gentiles, and tarry there a good while, Acts 14.20, &c.

Whilst they were here Anno 49. some of the Circumcision, who yet in some sort had received the Gospel, came from Jerusalem; St Paul calls them false Brethren, who thrust themselves into the Church to invade the Li∣berty of it, Gal. 2.4. They had been of the Sect of the Pharisees, and 'tis thought they were of the Party of Ebion and Cerinthus, famous Hereticks, and who may be said to be the Patriarchs of the Photinians, Chiliasts, Pelagians, and Semi-Jews. Some of the An∣cients affirm, That Cerinthus himself was of this party; these would needs oblige the Con∣verted Gentiles to be Circumcised, and to ob∣serve all the Ordinances of the Law; where∣unto Paul and Barnabas vigorously opposed themselves; and because they strengthen∣ed themselves under the pretended Authority of the Apostles, and the Mother Church of Jerusalem, the Brethren of Antioch depute Paul and Barnabas, having also Titus with them, Gal. 2.1. at whose Arrival the Synod was convocated, the Question debated, and decided in favour of the Christian Liberty; those who had begun and maintained this Doctrine at Antioch, disown'd; and the Faith∣ful Gentiles only obliged to abstain from Blood and things Strangled, and those pollu∣ted with Idolatry and Uncleanness. Peter here declares, That GOD had used his Mini∣stry to begin the Vocation of the Gentiles, James, who precides over the Assembly, makes the Conclusion; the Synodal Letters, which contain an honourable Testimony of Paul and Barnabas are put into the hands of Judas nam'd

otherwise Barsabas, and of Silas, who accom∣panied the 2 others in their return to Antioch, where they were well received; and Judas honourably dismist, to return into Judea; Silas staid at Antioch, Acts 15.1, &c.

This hapned according to the common Opinion, 17 years after the Conversion of Paul, as they gather from Gal. 1.18. and 2.1, &c. But we had rather, that we may not too much differ from the Calcuation of others, understand 14 years of the 2d Chapter since his Conversion, and not since the first Journy he made to Jerusalem after that of Damascus and Arabia; in which Case we must assign the Synod of Jerusalem to the 50th year of our Lord, which was the 10th of Claudius and the 8th after the Collection of the Church of Antioch, carried by Paul and Barnabas into Judea. And tho' after their first going into Cyprus and other places, to which there can no less time be allow'd than 2 years, they were return'd to Antioch; there's great like∣lyhood Paul did not sojourn there so con∣stantly, but that he now and then visited other places, which were not far distant, to advance the Gospel; to which we may refer what he recites of the propagation of the Gospel by his Ministry as far as Illyrium, Rom. 15.19, 20. and one part of the Per∣secutions, Accidents, and Sufferings, to which he had to that time been exposed, and which he summarily recites, 2 Cor. 11.23, &c.

The Decease of the Holy Virgin is referr'd to this Time; but according to this Reckoning she must be older than 15 Years when our Saviour was Conceiv'd, or less than 63 when she Died.

There's also great probability, that S. Peter being return'd to Jerusalem, after the Death of Herod, there found John, surnamed Mark, who at Pamphilia had left Paul and Barnabas, Acts 13.13. and that he took him with him to go towards the Jews of the Dispersion, who were in Chaldea, and under the Empire of the Parthians, to whom he directed from Babylon his first Epistle, saluting them also in Mark's Name, 1 Pet. 5.13. and that he was lately returned from this Journy in the time of the Synod.

In this Council or Assembly, the other Apo∣stles, amongst which James, Cephas, and John were look'd on as Pillars, acknowledg'd that the Preaching of the Gospel to the Gentiles was especially committed to Paul, who had met with hitherto great success; as to Peter, that of the Circumcision; and gave to him, and to Barnabas, the Right hand of Fellow∣ship, reserving to themselves the Ministry of the Circumcision; and agreeing that they should continue to go amongst the Gentiles, Gal. 2.7, 8, 9.

Some time after the holding of this Assem∣bly and perhaps in the year 51, Peter him∣self comes to Antioch; and this is the only Journy which we find in Scripture he made; at first he eat and drank familiarly both with Jews and Gentiles; but some Brethren amongst the Jews, coming from the part of James, he began to estrange himself from the Gen∣tiles, and even Barnabas suffered himself to be carried away by this Dissimulation, which Paul not brooking, he freely reprehends Peter for it, and withstands him to the Face, Gal. 2.11, &c. After this Paul and Barna∣bas design to Visit all the Churches which they had planted in their former Voyage; but Barnabas desiring that John, surnam'd Mark, who apparently came from Antioch with Pe∣ter, might be with them; and Paul not ap∣proving it, because he had forsaken them before in Pamphilia; this Dissension pro∣duced so much sharpness as made them part. Barnabas going into Cyprus with John, sur∣nam'd Mark, and Paul being accompanied with Silas, traversed Syria and Cilicia, Acts 15.36, &c. Coming to Derbe and Lystra, they there found a young Disciple, named Timothy, whose Father was a Greek; but whom Lois his Grandmother, and Eunice his Mother, Jewish Women, and yet of the Faithful, Con∣verted in the former Voyage of Paul and Bar∣nabas, had carefully instructed in Piety, and in the Holy Scriptures. Paul resolving to take him with him, first Circumcis'd him, to ac∣commodate himself to the weakness of the Jews, and to gain them more easily, Acts 16.1, &c. 2 Tim. 1.5. and 3.15.

In passing thro the Towns, he and his, great∣ly recommended the Ordinance of the Apostles at Jerusalem, touching Christian Liberty, Acts 16.4, 5.

Having travers'd Phrygia and Galatia, the Holy Spirit forbids them to Preach the Gospel in Asia; and being come into Mysia, they are also hindred from passing over into Bithy∣nia; and therefore they go down to Troas, where Paul is oblig'd by a Vision in the Night to go into Macedonia, Acts 16.6, &c.

There is great probability that S. Luke, who wrote the Book of the Acts, was one of

Paul's companions to Troas, because that from that time, he describes almost the whole Se∣quel of this Voyage in the first Person and in the Plural. Thus then the Apostle, and those of his Company, to come into Macedonia, pass by Samothracia, arriving from thence to Neapolis, situated in the Confines of Thrace and Macedonia; and from thence to Philippi, which was inhabited by a Roman Colony, and there remain'd some days, Acts 16.10, 11, 12. On the Sabbath-day they go out of the Town to a place near the River, where the Jews were wont to meet to Pray; There they found devout Women, to whom they make known the Gospel; amongst whom was Lydia, a Seller of Purple in Thyatira, who believes and is Baptized, with all her Family, and entertains the Apostle with the rest of his Company, Acts 16.13, &c. Com∣ing from Prayers, a Servant Maid, who had a Pro••hecying Spirit, follow'd them, crying (and continuing so to do for several days) That they were the Servants of the most High GOD, and the Proclaimers of his Salvation, Paul being wearied with her, Commands the Spirit to come out of her; The Masters of this Servant (who drew great Gain from her Divinations) enraged at the ceasing of their Profit, drew Paul and Silas before the Magi∣strate, and accuse them of publishing things prejudicial to the Roman Liberty, and even animate the Populacy against them. The Magistrates having Scourg'd them, confine them to Prison, and charge the Goaler to look strictly after them; who put them into a deep Dungeon: At Midnight (for their mu∣tual Consolation) they sing with a loud Voice the Praises of GOD; and at the same instant by a great Earthquake, the Foundations of the Prison Shook, and all the Doors fly open. The Goaler thinking the Prisoners had escap'd, would have run himself on his own Sword, but Paul hinders him, assuring him they were all there; having gotten a Light he casts himself at their Feet, is instructed in the Gospel; he washes their Wounds, is Bap∣tiz'd, and all his Houshold with him, and en∣tertains them at his Table with great Joy. In the Morning he is ordered by the Magistrates to let them go. But they complain, that being Roman Citizens, they had been Scourged, without any Trial or Form of Law; and therefore the Magistrates come themselves with Excuses to set them at Liberty, and to entreat them to depart the Town, which they did, after they had visited Lydia, and comfort∣ed the Brethren, Acts 16.16, &c.

Departing from Philippi, they pass thro Amphipolis and Apollonia, and arrive at Thessalo∣nica, where there was a Synagogue; and Paul being entred there for 3 Sabbath-days together, disputes with the Jews out of the Scripture, with such success, that some of them believed, and a great multitude of well dispos'd Greeks, and some Women of Quality embraced the Gospel, Acts 17. 1, 2, 3, 4. 1 Thess. 2.2.

Paul continuing his abode at Thessalonica, foretels the Brethren of the Revolt of Anti∣christ, 2 Thess. 2.5. and was assisted more than once by those of Philippi, with such Ne∣cessaries as he wanted, Phil. 4.16. But the Unbelieving Jews set the People into an Up∣roar against him, and the rest of his Com∣panions; they break violently into Jason's House, where they Lodged, and not finding them, they haled Jason and some others of the Brethren with him before the Magistrate, charging them with divers Crimes; and to render them the more Criminal, alledg'd they Preached up another King than Caesar; yet the Magistrates release Jason and the rest under Security. After which the Brethren make Paul and Silas depart by Night to Beraea; where being arriv'd they enter into the Syna∣gogue, and find the Jews there of a more gene∣rous Temper than those of Thessalonica, care∣fully comparing what they declared to them, with the Holy Scriptures. But the Jews of Thes∣salonica having heard of this success, they come to Beraea, and stir up the People here also, Acts 17.5, &c.

Then the Brethren of Beraea took care of Paul, and made him be conducted to Athens, where whilst he expected Silas and Timotheus, he was grieved to see the City so full of Idolatry: He Disputed in the Syna∣gogues with the Jews and Zealous People, and in the publick place with those he found there. He is reputed by the Stoicks and Epi∣cureans, for a Babbler, and Preacher of strange Gods. Being drawn into the Areopage, he takes occasion from an Altar, which he per∣ceiv'd Inscrib'd, To the Unknown GOD, to instruct them in the Nature of the True GOD, and of his Providence, of the Resurrection and last Judgment. His Discourse was not without fruit; for Denis the Areopagite, and a Woman named Damaris (whom some think to have been his Wife) and some others be∣lieved in the Lord, Acts 17.14, &c. It's

thought that Denis, the Areopagite, having observed in Egypt, where he then was, the prodigious Eclipse of the Sun, at our LORD's Passion, said, Either that the Author of Na∣ture suffer'd, or that 'twas about being de∣stroyed. All Learned Men are now agreed, that the Works which have been so long at∣tributed to him are none of his, having been writ 500 years after him.

Silas and Timotheus arrived at Athens, are sent by the Apostle into Macedonia, there to comfort and strengthen the Brethren. He himself being not able to go, as he would have willingly done, Acts 18.5. 1 Thess. 2.17, 18, & 3.1, 2.

But leaves Athens, Anno 53, and comes to Corinth, where these two return to him from Macedonia; and where he finds Aquilla the Jew, and Priscilla his Wife, lately came from Italy; the Emperor Cla••dius having com∣manded all the Jews to depart from Rome, for the Troubles they every day caused on occa∣sion of the Christian Doctrine, which Sueto∣nius has remarked without well under∣standing it; and Paul joyned himself to these two as being of the same Trade, which was to make Tents, and fail'd not on the Sabbath-days, to perswade as well Jews as Greeks, to embrace the Christian Faith, Acts 18.1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

S. Paul having protested to the Jews of Corinth, that he would turn himself to the Gentiles, enters into the House of Jus••us, who lived near the Synagogue. He Baptizes the Family of Stephanus, who was the First-fruits of Achaia, Crispus the Chief of the Syna∣gogue and his Family, and brings over several Corinthians to the Faith, Acts 18.6, &c. 1 Cor. 1.14, 16. and 16.15. The LORD encourages this Apostles by a Vision, after which he remains at Corinth 18 Months, Acts 18.9, &c. with Silvanus, or Silas and Timotheus, 2 Cor. 1.19. it being thence he wrote in the name of those 3, his 2 Epistles to the Thessalo∣nians; although some think, that the second was writ from Rome.

During Paul's stay at Corinth, he is ac∣cused by the Jews before Gallio, Seneca's Bro∣ther, who was Pro-Consul of Achaia. Gallio refuses to hear them, and drives them away from the Bar; and the Greeks (altho Pagans) because Paul perhaps Lodged at one of their Nation, fell a beating of Sosthenes, the chief of the Synagogue, in hatred of the Jews, the Pro-Consul taking no notice of it, Acts 18.12, &c. and it seems that this Sosthenes, who impleaded Paul before Gallio, either is not the same mentioned by the Apostle, 1 Cor. 1.1. or that since he was changed from a Wolf into a Lamb, and Converted to Jesus Christ. This hapned Anno 54.

The Apostle after this leaves Corinth, having first caused his Head to be Shaved at Cen∣chrea, (which was the Port of the Town) on occasion of a Vow, and to shew the Jews, he still retained a respect for the Ceremonies of his Nation, and Embarks for Syria, being accompanied by Aquila and Priscilla: Arri∣ved at Ephesus, where he communicates in the Synagogues with the Jews, who desire him to tarry longer with them, which he refuses on the account of the necessity there was of his being at Jerusalem at the Festival; yet promising to return to them, Aquila and Priscilla tarry at Ephesus. Paul Embarks for Cesarea, whence he goes to Jerusalem, and comes down from thence to Antioch. Some time after he parts thence for Phrygia and Galatia, where he is well received, Acts 18.18, &c. and Gal. 4.14. Tho the Galatians (a while after) suffer themselves to be seduced by those who asserted Justification by Works, and the observation of Legal Ceremonies; on notice of which, he better informs them by Writing, Gal. 1.6, 7. rather from Ephesus, when he was about parting thence, than from Rome, as it's commmonly held.

Apollos, an Alexandrian Jew, a Man elo∣quent and very able in the Scriptures, whom some have impertinently confounded with Philo, came in the mean time to Ephesus, being in some measure instructed in the way of the LORD; and Aquila and Priscilla in∣structed him better. He afterwards passes into Achaia, where he is recommended by the Bre∣thren, and there employs his Talent to good purpose, Acts 18.24, &c.

About the time when Paul parted from Co∣rinth, the Emperor Claudius died, having Reigned 13 Years, 8 Months, and some days, and left the Empire to Nero, who was the first Persecutor of the Christians.

Anno 55, 56, 57. When Apollos was at Corinth, Paul arrives at Ephesus, he lays his Hands on 12 Disciples, who as yet knew no other than the Baptism of St John. He con∣tinues for 3 Months together to teach in the Synagogues; but at length he leaves it, by reason of the contradiction and obstinacy of the Jews, and teaches for 2 years in the School

of one Tyrannus, signalizing himself by divers Miracles. He confirms his Doctrine, by what hapned to 7 Jews the Sons of Sceva, of the Sacerdotal Order, who taking on them to be Exorcists, and mixing in their Superstition the Name of Jesus, whom Paul Preached, were very ill handled by the Evil Spirit. Several, who were addicted to curious and unlawful Arts, which were much used at Ephesus, were Converted to Christ, and burnt their Books. Demetrius and his Work-men, seeing their Trade to decay, stir up the Rabble against the Apostle, hale Gaius and Aristarchus (Mace∣donians) into the Theatre, to exact an account of them, for the Contempt of their Goddess, introduced by the Christian Doctrine. Paul would have presented himself to the People, but is with-held by certain Priests of Asia, who having embraced the Faith, retained yet the Names of Chief of Asia, and presided in the Publick Games, when they could do it with a safe Conscience. The Jews make use of this occasion, to Criminate the Apostle, driving to the Theatre, Alexander the Copper-Smith. This popular Commotion is appeased by the Prudence of the Town-Clerk; by which means Paul quietly carried near 3 years at Ephesus, and circumjacent Places, Acts Chap. 19. and 20.31. Stephanus, Fortunatus, and Apollos, come from Corinth to Ephesus, there to visit the Apostles; and by them he wrote to the Corinthians in his Name, and of Sosthenes his first Epistle. Apollos not being willing to return so soon with them, 1 Cor. 1.1. and 16.12, 15, &c. About this time Aquila and Priscilla withdrew to Rome, the Edict of Claudius, which had banisht them thence, expiring with him, Rom. 16.3, 4.

Paul remaining still in Asia, projected to pass thro Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, and thence to Rome, and had sent before Timotheus and Erastus, not intending to leave Ephesus till Pentecost, Acts 19.21, 22. Rom. 1.13. 1 Cor. 15. But the Tumults excited by Demetrius, made him depart sooner, Acts 20.

Anno 58. From Ephesus he comes to Troas, where he does not fix, being troubled he did not there find Titus, 2 Cor. 2.12, 13. and s••eers directly towards Macedonia, where he remains 3 Months exhorting the Macedonians to be ready with their Collections for Jeru∣salem, by the Example of Achaia, whose Charity Money was ready a year ago, 2 Cor. 8.1, &c. and 9.2. It seems that then he wrote his 1st Epistle to Timothy, whom in parting he had left at Ephesus, to Govern the Church there, Ephes. 1.3. But Timothy comes imme∣diately after to him in Macedonia, where he had not determined any thing about his abode there. Titus also being come near to him in Macedonia, and brought him good News from Corinth, he writes from Philippi his 2d Epistle in his Name and that of Timothy, and charTitus and another with it, who is thought to have been St Luke the Evangelist, with order to take care the Collections which were re∣commended above a year ago, 1 Cor. 16.1, 2. might be ready for him at his arrival, 2 Cor. 7.5, &c. and 8.16, &c. and 9.3, 4, 5.

Anno 59. After some stay in Macedonia, he comes into Greece and Corinth, where he re∣mains 3 Months, and whence he writes (by the Hand of Tertius) his Epistles to the Romans, and sends it by Phaebe, a Deaconess of the Church of Cenchrea, on the point of carrying to Jerusalem the Collections made for the Saints, Rom. 15.25, 26. and 16.1, 2, 21, 22, 23. Acts 20.2, 23. Then also Paul wrote his Epistle to Titus from Nicapolis, in which he obliges him to come to him, Titus 3.12. The Apostle had left him in Crete, to settle Pastors in every Town; after that, going from Macedonia into Greece by the Aegean Sea, he had Landed in Crete or Candia, and there laid the Founda∣tions of Christianity. There, to avoid the Ambushes of the Jews, had he taken the way of Syria; he determines to take that of Ma∣cedonia, and sends Sopater, (who is called Sosi∣pater, Rom. 6.21.) the Beraean, Aristarchus, and Secundus (Thessalonians) Gaius, Timotheus, Tychicus, and Trophimus, to stay for him at Troas; and weighing Anchor at Philippi (with the rest of his Company) after the Feast of Easter, he comes to them 5 days after, and there remained 7. On Sunday all the Faithful being Assembled to celebrate the Lord's Sup∣per, and Paul Preaching till Midnight, a young man named Eutychus, sitting in a Window and o're-taken with Sleep, falls dead from the 3d Story; but the Apostle having embraced him raises him up alive. From Troas he Journied to Assos by Land, and the rest of his Company by Water; where having met, they come to Metelin; where parting they found themselves the next morning in sight of Chios, and the day following touching at Samos, they stopt at Trogyllum, and arrived the next day at Miletum, which was not far from Ephesus. Paul hastning to be at Jerusalem at Pentecost, sends for the Bishops and Pastors of the Church of Ephesus to come to Miletum, to

whom he represents the integrity of his Car∣riage, and his preparedness for the Afflictions which attended him, and seriously exhorts them to acquit themselves well of their Duty; and his Discourse being ended, he is conducted by all of them to the Ship, Acts 20.3, &c. not without Disconsolating them, by telling them, They would no more see his Face, as he then thought; tho GOD gave him an opportunity of Visiting them again, after his first Impri∣sonment at Rome.

Parting from Miletum, they steer dirictly to Coos, the next day to Rhodes and afterwards to Patara; where they Embark on a Vessel which was bound for Phoenicia. Thus leaving Cyprus on the left, and making towards Syria they arrive at Tyre, where they tarried 7 days, and found there Disciples, who would have dissuaded Paul from going to Jerusalem, fore∣seeing by the Spirit the Persecutions which he was to undergo. At Tyre they Embark'd, for Ptolemais, where they tarried one day with the Brethren, Acts 21.1, &c.

From Ptolemais they come to Caesarea, and Lodge at Philip the Evangelist, who had been one of the 7 Deacons, and whose 4 Daughters were enlightned with the Spirit of Prophecy. Agabus foretold Paul of his Bonds, who could not be diverted from going to Jerusalem, Acts 21.8, &c. Having abode several days at Caesarea, they part thence for Jerusalem, carrying with them an ancient Disciple, a Cyprian named Mnason, at whose house Paul was to Lodge. They are kindly received by the Brethren at Jerusalem. The next day after their Arrival they Visit St James, and all the Elders of the Church are Assembled; to whom Paul represents the success of his Ministry a∣mong the Gentiles, and exhibits without doubt the Collections he brought for the poor of Judea. He is here advised to purify himself (according to the Law) with 4 other Chri∣stian Jews, who had made a Vow of a Naza∣rite, to refute the Calumny, as being a Deserter of the Law of Moses, and of bad Example to all the Jews, who also believed in Jesus Christ, to forsake it. But this Project little availed, tho Paul made use of it; for some unbeliev∣ing Jews being come from Asia to the Feast, having seen him in the Temple, where he had satisfied this Purification, cry out against him, as a declared Enemy of the Nation, the Law, and that Place. They also accuse him for pro∣phaning the Temple, by carrying Greeks into it, (for they had seen Trophimus in the Streets with him, and imagined he had introduced him therein) and having raised a great Tu∣mult, they endeavoured to kill him: But Claudius Lysias, the Collonel, who Commanded the Garrison, coming hereupon with his Sol∣diers, took him out of their hands, and causes him to be laid in Irons. And not being able to get any certain knowledge of the Matter, by reason of the Tumult, he orders him to be carried into the Castle called Antonia, where the Garrison lay, where the Crowd was so great, that the Soldiers were forced to carry him on their Shoulders up Sairs, where he desires leave to speak to the people. Lysias asks him, whe∣ther he was not the Egyptian, who some years before having gather'd (under the Title of a Prophet) about 4000 men, had seized on the Mount of Olives; for Felix the Governour had indeed defeated him; but as to his own person, he had escap'd without any bodies knowing what was become of him. See Joseph l. 2. c. 20. But Paul having declared himself a Jew, and born at Tarsus; obtain'd permission to speak, and offers his Apology in Hebrew, which pro∣cures him the greater silence, until he menti∣oned his being sent of GOD to the Gentiles; Then all all his Hearers cry out impetuously a∣gainst him, as unworthy to live, Acts 21.17, &c. and 22.1, &c. Lysias hereupon makes him re∣tire into the Castle, and orders him to be ex∣amined by Scourging; but the Apostle having represented to the Captain, That he was a Roman Citizen; Lysias respecting this privi∣ledg'd Quality, which he himself had bought so dear, made him be speedily unbound, and the day following he convocates the whole Senate of the Jews, to hear the Heads of his Accusation, Acts 22.23, &c. Annanias, who is thought to have been Depos'd, and to exercise the Office of Chief Priest only on this occasion, caused Paul to be struck without any Reason, which hindred not the Apostle from going on with his Defence, and by declaring himself a Pharisee, he set them all at variance with one another; which Lysias observing, took care of Paul, and carried him back into the Castle by the Soldiers, Acts 23.1, &c. The LORD streng∣thens this Apostle the Night following. The next morning more than 40 Zealots conspire to slay him; which Enterprize is discover'd by a young Lad, Paul's Sisters Son; and Lysias to hinder it, sends him the Night following with a good Guard to Cesarea, where resided Felix the Governour of the Province, who confined him in Herod's Palace, Acts 23.12, &c. Anno 60, 61.

Five Days after Ananias came to Caesarea, to implead Paul, thereunto joyning Com∣plaints against Lysias, who had taken him out of their Hand. The Apostle returns a par∣ticular Answer to every thing, and Felix refers to another opportunity the Judgment on this matter. Felix, some days after, makes Paul be brought before him, who strikes him with Ter∣rour by a pathetical discourse of Justice, Tem∣perance, and the future Judgment. He hopes to draw Money; but finding himself disap∣pointed, and constrain'd 2 years after to leave his Place to another, to gratify the Jews, he left the Apostle a Prisoner, Acts Chap. 24.

Anno 62. To Felix, whose Government was very Insolent and Tyrannical, succeeds Portias Festus, about the same time as Nero put his Mother Agrippina to death, who (to hasten the promotion of her Unnatural Son) had poyson'd the Emperor Claudius, her Husband. 3 Days after Festus arrived at Caesarea he came to Jerusalem, where the High Priest and Chief of the Council renew'd their Accusation against the Apostle, and entreat Festus to send him to Jerusalem, intending to have him Murther'd by the way; but Festus excuses himself, and declares, he would return to Caesarea in few days, and that then some of them should ap∣pear to be heard in his presence there. Having tarried not above 10 days at Jerusalem, he returns to Caesarea, and the next Morning sits in the Judgment Seat; where having heard the Sum of what both Parties had to say; Festus (to gratify the Jews) demands of Paul, Whe∣ther he would go up to Jerusalem, to be Judged there before him? But the Apostle excuses him∣self, and appeals to Caesar, Acts 25.1, &c.

Some days after, young Agrippa and his Si∣ster Bernice came to Caesarea, to salute Festus, and congratulate his coming into those Parts. Festus speaks to them about his Prisoner, and what had hapned concerning him since he came to his Government; and knowing not what he would write to Caesar on Paul's Ap∣peal, is very willing to have the Advice of Agrippa, who having heard the Apostle reason very earnestly out of the Scriptures, tho Festus made a Mock at all, acknowledges to the Pri∣soner, That he had almost perswaded him to be∣come a Christian; and declares to the Gover∣nour, That he might have been released as Inno∣cent, had he not appealed to Caesar, Acts 25.13, &c. and 26.1, &c.

In fine, Festus being resolved to send Paul to Rome, with other Prisoners, under the Guard of an Officer named Julius, he was Embarkt on an Adramytten Ship, which went into Asia, accompanied by Timotheus, St Luke, and Ari∣starchus. Touching the next morning at Sidon, Julius permitted the Apostle to go to his Friends to be supplied by them with what he wanted. The Vessel arriving at Myra, a Town of Lycia, they found another there of Alexan∣dria bound for Italy, wherein Julius embarkt himself and his Prisoners. Paul would have advised them to have put in at Fair Havens, and there have Winter'd; because already the Fast of the Month of Tisri was past, that is, the Month of October was come, and the time of Navigation near spent: But the Ad∣vice of the Master of the Ship, to which Julius gave a greater adherence, than to that of the Apostle, prevailed. Not long after an horrible Tempest, and which continued for several days, meets with the Ship; yet the Apostle exhorts as well the Sea-men as Passengers, to take Courage, GOD having told him that Night, by an Angel, That he should stand before Cae∣sar, and that in consideration of him no Body should perish in the Ship. When the Vessel was ready to split, the Sea-men would have saved themselves in the Long Boat; but by the Counsel of Paul they are hindred. The Sol∣diers would have the Prisoners killed, but Julius (on Paul's account) diverted them from that purpose; and the Vessel being wrecked, each man saves himself as he could, some by Swimming, and others on pieces of Planks; and thus all come safe to Land, Acts 27.1, &c. They found it was the Isle of Malta, whose Inhabitants used them very Courteously. And a Viper fastning on Paul's hand, as he gathered up Sticks to throw on the Fire, the Islanders believed he must presently die upon it, judging him to be a Murtherer, whom Divine Ven∣geance pursued to Land; but seeing he had shak'd the Animal into the Fire without any hurt, they change both Thought and Language, and will have him now to be a God. Here Paul cured the Father of Publius, who was sick of a Fever, and pain in the Bowels; and also of those who were sick in the Island. Whence (after 3 Months) Julius Embarks his People in a Ship of Alexandria called Castor and Pollux: The first place they cast Anchor was at Syracuse, where the Passengers refresh'd themselves for 3 days; at the end of which they set forth for Rhegium, and two days after to Puzziolum. And after that Julius had yield∣ed to the Requests of some of the Brethren,

who were there, that Paul should tarry 7 Days with them, they arriv'd at Rome, Acts 28.1, &c.

Whilst these things hapned to S. Paul, S. Mark is thought to have died at Alexandria in the 8th year of Nero. Those who will have him to have wrote his Gospel at Rome, want Foundation: There is greater probability he wrote it whilst he accompanied the Apostle in Chaldea, and that since it was sent or left by him at Alexandria, by reason of the great number of Jews which there remained, and amongst which he made a great progress. But according to this reckoning, either we must distinguish Mark the Evangelist, that is, John surnamed Mark, from another Mark the Cousin of Barnabas, Coloss. 4.10. whom S. Paul (in 2 Tim. 4.10.) recommends to his Disciple to bring along with him to Rome, as being very useful to him in the Ministry; or if he be the same, it must be acknowledged, that those who make him die so soon, have not taken exact Measures. Moreover, whilst Festus was waver∣ing about what he should do with the Apostle, Nero having set Rome on Fire, laid the Crime on the poor Christians, whom he caused to be cloathed in the Skins of Wild Beasts, and thus exposed them to ravenous Lions and Bears, making it a sport of putting them to all cruel Tortures. And this was the first of the 10 Per∣secutions, which the Roman Emperors raised against the Christians. It was, as described by Tacitus, very sharp and fierce, but did not last long; for the Storm was in a manner over when Paul arrived at Rome. Then also James the Lesser, under the Authority of Ananias the High Priest and Sadducee, suffered Martyrdom, being thrown down from a Pinnacle and Ston'd. We have a Catholick Epistle of his amongst those of the New Testament; but it's not precisely known in what time he Wrote.

Now to return to Paul: The Brethren at Rome understanding he was at Puzzoli, came out to meet him as far as the Market of Ap∣pius; and Julius having delivered up the Pri∣soners at Rome into the hands of the Captain of the Guards, Paul had leave to dwell apart by himself with a Souldier, who was his Keeper. 3 Days after he sends for the Chief Persons of the Nation, to whom he shews his Imprison∣ment, and his Innocency. They tell him, They had received no Information concerning him from Judea, and desire to hear from himself an account of his Sentiments, observing that the Chri∣stian Religion was every where spoken against. He (on the Day appointed) declared to them the Kingdom of GOD, with different success, and a Protestation, That the Salvation which they refused, should be offered to the Gentiles. Thus Paul remained 2 whole years in his own House, receiving all that would Hear him, and Preaching Christ at full liberty, Acts 28.15, &c.

Here S. Luke ends his Relation, which he inscribes The Acts of the Apostles, which ap∣parently he wrote at Rome, whilst the Apostle Paul was Prisoner there. He had written his Gospel long before, to oppose the Fabulous Re∣lations of False Teachers, by which they en∣deavoured to overthrow the Doctrine taught by our Saviours true Apostles. It's not known who was the Theophilus, to whom he Addresses both these Relations; but it seems, as to himself, he was to Paul what Mark was to Peter, for the Evangelical History; and he had been also with Coleophas (in the Way of Emaus) an Eye-witness of our Saviour's Resurrection, Luke 24.13, &c. It's of him and his Gospel that Peter speaks, 2 Cor. 3.18, 19. and whom he terms a Physi∣cian, Coloss. 4.14. being far from the Profession of a Painter, attributed to him by the Vulgar, an Employment which in the Birth of Chri∣stianity was equally abominable and unlawful, both to Jews and Christians.

Whilst Paul is a Prisoner at Rome, he writes to the Philippians by Epaphroditus, whom they had sent to Visit him and assist him, and who employing himself with the Apostle in the Ministry of the Gospel, was in danger of his Life by a great Sickness, in the very time when the Bonds of Paul, famous in Nero's Palace, had brought over several of his Hous∣hold to the knowledge of Christ, Phil. 1.12, 13, and 2.19, &c. and 4.10, &c. But he had Writ a while before from the same place to the Colossians, and to Philemon, by Onesi∣mus, a Fugitive Servant of his, who at Rome was Converted to the Faith by the Ministry of Paul, who sent him back to his Master with a Letter, and entrusted him also (with Tychi∣cus) with an Epistle to the Colossians, Coloss. 4.7, 8. I say, That the Epistle to Philemon and the Colossians, preceded that of the Phi∣lippians, seeing that Epaphroditus was the Bearer of this, whereas he was then at Rome, and a Prisoner, if he be the same as Epaphras; and several think, when the 2 others were writ∣ten; Coloss. 4.12. Philem. ver. 23. these 3 Epistles, to the Philippians, Colossians, and to Philemon, are written in the name of Paul and Timothy, who was then at Rome, as a small time after the Epistle to the Hebrews

was written to the same place, in which he hoped to see them shortly, Heb. 13.23, 24. Not long after the City of Laodicea, the Church of which was concerned in the Epistle to the Colossians, was overthrown by an Earth∣quake; but is seems that since it arose in some sort from its fall, seeing the Church of Laodicea is mentioned among the 7 Churches of Asia, Rev. 1.11.

Now there's great likelyhood that S. Paul, after he had been detain'd Prisoner at Rome 2 years, was releast about the 10th of Nero, which concurred with the 64th of our Lord; on the failure of his Accusers appearance be∣fore the Emperor, and under an Obligation to be in such a place as should be appointed at a time. Some pretend, that during this time, he accomplished the Design which he had of a long time of passing into Spain, Rom. 15.24, 28. At least may be gathered out of his Epistles written from Rome, that he had great hopes of returning again into Macedo∣nia, Asia and Greece, Philip. 1.25. & 2.24. Yea, towards the Hebrews, Heb. 13, 23.24. That he orders Philemon, when he writes to him in the name of Timothy, and his own, by Onesimus and Tychicus; to prepare him a Lodging, Philem. ver. 22. That Timothy, who had accompanied him his whole Voyage and Bonds at Rome, and long dwelt with him, had been sent by him to Macedonia, during his first Imprisonment, and after the Epistles writ∣ten to the Phillippians, to the Clossians, and to Philemon, which bear both his Name and that of Timothy. That Timothy was not then at Rome, when Paul wrote his Epistle to the Hebrews, it being probable that parting from Rome, he was somewhere detained at the be∣ginning of his Voyage to Macedonia and Greece, and that Paul (in receiving the News of his Relaxation, Heb. 13.23, 24.) expected he would have returned to him, tho being at li∣berty he did not do it, but continued his way; And thus the Apostle being at length releas'd, tho the manner be unknown, parted also from Rome, and at least following Timothy; Timo∣thy took a turn into the East, according to his promise and hopes he had conceiv'd; seeing that in the 2d of Timothy writ from Rome, to∣wards the end of his days, and when he pre∣par'd himself for Martyrdom, he orders Timo∣thy to return speedily towards him, and to bring Mark with him; informing him, that Erastus, who probably had given some hope of accompanying him in this second Voyage of Rome, yet remained at Corinth, and was constrain'd to leave Trophimus sick at Miletum, 2 Tim. 4.11, 13, 20. which cannot be un∣derstood of a 2d Voyage of Paul to Rome, see∣ing that having had Timothy with him during the first, he must needs know, that Erastus was not of the Company, and Trophimus was stopt by Sickness at Miletum, and hindred to pass further. So when Paul (from his first Imprisonment) wrote to the Colossians, he says, that Mark was with him, Coloss. 4.10. Phi∣lem. ver. 24. But since he ordered Timothy to bring him to him, 2 Tim. 4.11. when he wrote this 2d Epistle to Timothy, Demas was gone to Thessalonica, Crescens into Galatia, and not amongst the Gauls, as some have thought, Titus into Dalmatia, and he had only Luke with him, 2 Tim. 4.10. But when he wrote to the Colossians and to Philemon, he had with him Luke and Demas, Coloss. 4.14. and Philem. ver 24. In this last Epistle to Timothy, he writes as being ready to suffer Martyrdom, and at the point of death, 2 Tim. 4.6, 7, 8. But in the other Epistle writ from Rome, he speaks, as hoping and assuring himself quickly to see those to whom they were directed: And as he salutes Timothy in the name of Eubulus, Pru∣dens, Linus, and Claudia, of whom he had made no mention in his Epistles to the Phi∣lippians, Colossians, and to Philemon; so he salutes the Colossians, and Philemon in the name of Aristarchus, Mark the Cousin of Barnabas, and of Jesus surnam'd the Just, as of his Fellows in the Ministerial Labors at Rome, of whom he makes no mention to Timothy; but seeing he therein salutes Priscilla and Aquila, and the Family of Onesiphorus, who was an Asiatick, there's great likelyhood, that the first who were at Rome when Paul came there the first time, had also went out thence the 2d time with him, and return'd to dwell in Asia; or in Achaia. This diversity of Persons, joyned to the Circumstances already mentioned suffici∣ently verifies, that the Scene was changed, and that we must imagine a considerable Interval of Time between the Imprisonment of Paul at Rome, and the 2d, under which was writ the 2d Epistle to Timothy.

We cannot say where Timothy Sojourn'd, when Paul wrote to him his 2d Epistle, out of his 2d Bonds; and for what Reason he did not return to Rome with him, nor by whom it was sent to him, no more than we know how, whence, or on what occasion, the Apostle re∣turns to his Prison; but it's certain, that from

the same Prison, and a little before he had writ his 2d Epistle to Timothy, which is the last of all his Epistles, he wrote his Epistle to the Ephesians, and sent it them by Tychicus, which manifestly appears from what we read Ephes. 6.21. and 2 Tim 4.12. And certainly had the Epistle to the Ephesians been carried by Tychicus, at the same time he carried with Onesimus the Epistle to the Colossians, the Apo∣stle would as well have joyn'd the Name of Timothy with his, as well in that, as in this, were they sent away from Rome together at the same time. It's certain, that then Accu∣sers presented themselves against Paul, who altho' he was forsaken by all his Acquaintance in his first defence, yet was he so assisted by GOD, that he boldly defended Christianity, and was not at that time Condemn'd. But by an In∣terlocutory Sentence sent to Prison, in which he couragiously expected the time of his Death, 2 Tim. 4.17, 18.

Whilst Paul was either newly releas'd from his first Imprisonment, or return'd to his 2d, and therein detained, Peter wrote his 2d Epi∣stle, sensible of his approaching Death, 2 Pet. 1.14. and after almost all of Paul's were divulg'd amongst the Churches, 2 Pet. 3.15, 16. and especially that which was writ to the Hebrews, that there's great Conformity in the Matters which are treated of in them both. A while after was writ the Epistle of Jude whom the Evangelists call Lebbeus and Thad∣des, which is (as it were) an Epitomy of the 2d of Peter, and has great conformity with it.

'Tis the opinion of some, that Peter and Paul suffer'd Martyrdom in the same place, and at the same time; It's certain they both suffer'd Martyrdom, and that Peter was Cruci∣fied, according as our Saviour had foretold him, John 21.18. And it's also certain, that Paul suffer'd Martyrdom at Rome, where he so joyfully expected it; but if Peter underwent it at the same time, and in the same place, (as some are of Opinion) he must have come to Rome a little before the Death of Paul, and after he had writ all his Epistles, seeing that in all of them he makes no mention of Peter, altho he takes notice of several others of less Consideration and Authority than he amongst the Christians. However, because it might happen that since the last Epistle of Paul, writ to Timothy, and consequently since his first Hea••ing before Nero, which was favoura∣ble enough, and in which he had been deli∣vered from the Lions Mouth, 2 Tim. 4.17, 18. Peter might have come to Rome, we will not therefore contradict those who make them both Dye on the 29th of June, in the 12th Year of Nero, which concurr'd with the 66th of our Lord. Peter (as is said) having been Cruci∣fied with his Head downwards, and Paul Be∣headed.

It being our design to contain our selves within the compass of the Holy History, we shall say nothing of what may be mentioned touching the other Apostles of our Lord, and the success of their Preaching in divers places of the World: and therefore to finish our Task, let's observe, That in the same time when Nero began to make Martyrs, whose Ashes and Blood were the Seed of the Church, the Jewish Nation had filled up the measures of their Iniquities, and hastned by its Confu∣sions, its entire and final ruin. The War had begun to grow hot since some years, between the Jews and Romans. Nero had sent Florus, (a wicked man) to succeed Albinus in the Government of Judea; who vexing, and in sundry manners oppressing the Jews, (prone enough of themselves to Sedition, and full of ill Humours), made them take the Bridle in their Teeth, and threw them into Despair. King Agrippa, a great Zealot in Judaism, did what he could to disswade them from taking up Arms; but scarcely was he gone from Jerusalem, but certain seditious persons, who called themselves Zealots, surprized the Castle of Massadas a strong place, and well provided, and therein kill all the Roman Garrison. Eleazer moreover the Son of the High Priest Ananias, Captain of the Temple, a factious and haughty person, perswades the Priests to offer no Sacrifices, but for the Jews, to the exclusion of those which were wont to be offered for the Emperor, and the Romans. The Chief of the Town considering whereto this tended, entreat Florus at Cesarea, and Agrippa, to send Forces speedily to stifle the Sedition in the Cradle. Florus, who desired no better, lets it increase; and the Troops which Agrippa sent, served only to form parties. They held with the chief persons the higher part of the Town, the Seditious possest the lowe Town and the Temple. 7 Days past between them in Skirmishes; but on occasion of a Feast, several Assassins or desperate People got into the Temple, and joyning with others, they burn Herods Palace and that of Agrippa, and the House of Ananias. Manahem the Son of Judas, a Galilean, Chief of these Ruffians, and who had Armed them at Mas∣sada, made himself Master of the Town,

having taken the Fort Antonia, and killed the Roman Garrison; but Eleazer Captain of the Temple, killed him in the very Temple, as he was there at Prayers; and having rout∣ed this Party, he re-takes Massada, and kills in cold Blood, on the Sabbath-day, the Roman Souldiers of several Garrisons, who had sur∣rendered on Terms of Composition. Florus returns the same to the Jews of Caesarea. And thus the Animosity sharpens on both sides, by the effusion of much Blood both in Judea and Syria. Cestius Gallus, Governor of Syria, Arms at this Report, takes and burns Joppa, Lyddia, and other Towns, marches towards Jerusalem, Blocks up the Seditious, who had marched out in the Field against him, and might have then by the favour of the People possest himself of the Town and Temple, had he prest the Siege, which he suddenly raised, and without any Reason, with great loss of his Men, and several Machines of War, which he left behind him in his hasty Retreat, and which served since during the Siege of Jerusalem, to the defence of the Town. At the hearing of this, Nero, who was in Achaia, commits to Ves∣pasian the Care of this War. Titus his Son brings him a great Reinforcement from Alexandria; and thus with an Army of 60000 Men, pierces into Galilee, Besieges, takes and burns Gadara and Jotapata; Tiberias does of it self surrender; Terichee having held out a Siege, is taken by force, and utterly destroyed. And whilst other Towns in Galilee and Palestin yield to the Conqueror, the Jews divide themselves into 2 Factions; the one being for War, and the others being as earnest for Peace. The Countries are filled with Robbers, who laden with Spoil taken from the Peaceable, come to Jerusalem, and fill it with Disorders, Discords, Violences, Murthers, and Blood. These Zealots, (for so did they call themselves) being besieged by the People in the Temple, call in the Idume∣ans to their assistance, who entring with 20000 Men into the City, make there a great Slaughter. Vespasian being moved by these Disorders, prepares himself for the Siege of Jerusalem, and removes all hindrances: Yet on the News of Nero's death, and that of Galba, who had succeeded him, he thinks fitting with Titus his Son to temporize a while, which gives the Jews leisure to take Breath. which they only used to their mutual Ruin. Otho, who had succeeded Galba, having been also killed, and Vitellus being entred into Italy to succeed them, the Troops of Vespasian salute him Emperor, and his Party having prevail'd at Cremona, and at Rome against Vitellus, who was killed, he Embarks at Alexandria, to go to Rome, and charges his Son Titus with the care of the War of Judea.

The City of Jerusalem was full of Factions, which raged every day more violently against one another. Titus parts from Caesarea a while before Easter, and comes and sits down before the Town, which he attacks with great Vigor, hindring all persons from going out thence, and any thing to be carryed into it; the Plague and Famine did also there rage; that from the 14th of April, when the Siege began, were Buried or cast into Holes, above 600000 Persons, which had perished either thro Hunger or Sickness. In fine, the City being Attacked on all sides from the 5th of July, all was submitted to the Victorious, and burnt down to the ground; as to the Temple, on the 10th of August, tho Titus did what he could to preserve it; and as to the rest of the Town, the 8th of September, these Wretches being to be brought by no means to any Composition. There were made 97000 Prisoners, and 1100000 Per∣sons died during the Siege. John and Simon, Chief of the Factions, were found hid in the common Jakes; and 2000 others, who chose rather to kill one another, or dye with hun∣ger, than to surrender themselves. Several Prodigies had preceeded this Disaster; A Man for several years together had run about the Street, crying incessantly, Voice of the East, Voice of the West, Voice of the four Winds, Voice against Jerusalem, against the Temple, and against all the People; there being no∣thing that could hinder him, and crying (as he was wont) during the Siege on the Wall, Misery to the City, People, and Temple, he was struck with a Stone out of a Sling, and feeling himself mortally wounded, he added to his Cry these words, in expiring, Woe be also to me. A Comet in the form of a Sword glistered for a year together over the Town; of a Cow led to the Altar sprang a Lamb. A Year before the Siege in the Feast of Easter a great Light shined in the Temple and about the Altar, at 9 at Night, and continued for half an hour. The Eastern Gate of the Temple, which was of Brass, for the opening and shutting of which 20 Men were employ'd and required, was opened in

the Night of it self; Chariots and Armed Squadrons were seen to encounter in the midst of the Air, and dismal Voices were heard by Night in the Temple in the Feast of Pentecost, which said, Let's be gone hence. But the hardned Jews remained deaf and blind to all this, animated themselves to this War from a Prediction, that the Universal Em∣pire should be conferr'd on one which should arise about that time out of their Nation; which Josephus would have meant of Vespa∣sian, but which is rather to be expounded of Jesus Christ; whose Prophecies touching the desolation and everlasting Overthrow of their Temple and City, as they may be seen in Matt. 24.15, 16, &c. and those of Daniel, Cp. 9.27. had then their full Accomplishment: GOD having in the mean time provided by his Pro∣vidence for the safty of the Christian Church of Jerusalem, which was warned to depart thence a while before the beginning of the War, and to retire to Pella, where (during all these Commotions) she enjoy'd peace and safety, as is remark'd by Eusebius, lib. 2. Eccles. Hist. c. 5. The City was taken in the 2d year of Vespasian, which concurr'd with the 70th of our LORD, both the Father and the Son had solemn Tri∣umphs, and the Spoils of the Temple served for Ornaments to the Temple of Peace, built by Vespasian at Rome. It's said, That in Vespasian's 3d year, (An. 72.) Bartholomew suffered Martyr∣dom in Persia; and in the 4th year, Thomas in the Indies; and in the 5th, S. Luke at Patras in Achaia.

Vespasian held the Empire about 12 years; Titus his Son 2 Years and 2 Months; and Do∣mitian his other Son (as wicked and vitious as his Brother Titus had been wise, gracious, and excellent in Virtue) 14 years, or there∣abouts. This Domitian was the Author of the second Persecution against the Christians. The Banishment of St John into the Isle of Patmos, in the Aegean Sea, is usually referr'd to the 9th year of his Reign (Anno 91) where he re∣ceiv'd and wrote his Revelation, as is seen Rev. 1.9. But having before usually resided at Ephe∣sus, he there wrote his Gospel, after the 3 other Evangelists to serve as a Shield to the Church, to defend the Divinity of the Son of GOD, against Ebion and Cerinthus, who tho they profest themselves Christians, yet rejected it; of which this Apostle was so constant an Assertor that from thence he was called the Divine, according to the Title which is given him, or which he himself assumes in the Revela∣tions: He had also writ before his Banishment his 3 Epistles, the first of which was Circular or Catholick, for divers Churches at a time; it's said, it was Inscribed directly to the Par∣thians; the 2 others he Addrest to two par∣ticular Persons, the one whom he calls the Elect Lady, and the other named Gaius, whom he Salutes under the name of Eld••r or Presbyter, tho one of the first Disciples of Jesus Christ, John 1.37. He had been solemn∣ly called to the Apostleship with his Brother James, when they were mending their Nets in a small Vessel, with their Father Zebedee, Mat. 4.21. and were both surnamed Boanerges, Sons of Thunder, Mark 3.21. Our Saviour had a particular Kindness for him, John 13.23. and therefore he took him with Peter and James, to be Witnesses of the Resurrection of Jairas Daughter, Mark 5.37. of the Transfiguration, Matt. 17.1. and of his Agony, Matt. 26.37. He was at Table, leaning on our LORD's Bosom, in the Last Passover, John 13.23. Peter by his means was intro∣duced into Caiphas his House, when our Saviour was brought thither, John 18.16, 17. took the Holy Virgin home to him on our Saviour's recommendation on the Cross, John 19.26, 27. ran with Peter to the Sepulchre of Jesus Christ, and came there the first, John 20.3, 4. and knew our LORD first, when he appeared to them near the Sea of Tiberias, John 20.7. He, and James the Less, and Cephas, were esteem'd as Pillars, Gal. 2.9. He outliv'd all the rest of the Apostles, and saw executed on Jerusalem and the Jewish Nation, GOD's just Judgments, and our Saviour's Predictions. After 4 or 5 years Exile in Patmos, (Anno 96) the Death of Domi∣tian, by the Edict of Nerva his Successor, who annull'd all the Banishment and other Acts of this wicked Prince, under pretence of Judaism or Impiety against the Gods, restored to him his Liberty; so that he re∣turned to Ephesus, where he peacably died at a great Age, under the Emperor Trajan, and (as 'tis thought) in the 100th Year of our Lord, which concurred with the 2d Year of this Prince; For tho the Report went in his time, That he would not die, on what our Saviour had said of him to Peter, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? John 21.22, 23. yet he said enough here to unde∣ceive those, who during his life, and since his death, imagined he would not die, or that he was not as yet dead.

CHAP. IX. Of the Times that the PROPHETS lived in.

THe Times wherein any one of the Prophets lived, may easily be here seen; so that to pass over those whereof mention is made in the Book of the Kings, as Samuel, Gad, Nathan, Iddo, and particu∣larly Elias, and Elisha; the Time of whose Lives are very apparent from the Kings under whom they lived: It will be sufficient to take notice of those whose Writings we have extant, and at the same time, the particular Ages wherein they flourished will be found in this ensuing Table.

• JONAS began to Prophecy under Joash, Father of Jeroboam the 2d, King of Israel. Anno Mundi 3116.
• HOSEA, under Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, who were Kings of Judah, and Jeroboam King of Israel. A. M. 3194.
• JOEL, under the same Kings as Hosea, and not for as long a time.
• AMOS began to Prophecy in Israel the 23d year of Uzziah, and continued so for 28 years. A. M. 3217.
• ISAIAH Prophecied in Judah the 25th year of Uzziah, and continued under Ahaz and Hezekiah. The Tradition of the Jews, and some of the Ancient Fathers is, That Manasses (the Son of Hezekiah) put him to death; so that he must needs have Prophecied one whole Age. A. M. 3219.
• OBADIAH Prophecied in Israel, the same time as Isaiah in Judah. A. M. 3249.
• MICAH was under Jotham, Ahaz▪ and Hezekiah, Kings of Judah; and it seems to have been about this time, that Jonas was sent to Nineveh.
• NAHUM began to Prophecy after that the 10 Tribes were carried away Captive in∣to Babylon, as well to comfort those that re∣main'd, as those that were carried away. A. M. 3291.
• JEREMIAH began to Prophecy in Ju∣dah in the 13th year of Josiah, and Pro∣phecied for 45 years. Being afterwards carried into Egypt, he was there Stoned to death. A. M. 3375.
• BARUCH was also of the same time, and tho he was of a very great Family, yet he served him as Secretary.
• ZEPHANIAH, and HABAKKUK▪ were also of the same time.
• DANIEL began to Prophecy in Babylon, when yet in a manner but a Child, under Nebuchadnezar, and continu'd until the time of Cyrus, that is to say, about the 85th year of his Age; and tho he obtain'd by his Prayers the accomplishment of his Prophe∣cies, for the deliverance of the People; yet it seems probable, he died in this strange Country without ever returning into Judea, Anno Mundi 3398.
• EZEKIEL (who was of the Race of the Priests, and one of those carried Captive, together with Jechoniah, by King Nebu∣chadnezar) began 5 years after to prophecy at Babilon, and so continued 22 years. A. M. 3409.
• HAGGAI Prophecied in Judah upon the Return of the People from Captivity, and rebuk'd them for being too slow in Re∣building the Temple, A. M. 3485.
• ZACHARIAH was of the same time.
• MALACHY was the last of the Prophets, and seems to have been of the same time, with Nehemiah, that is, towards the end of the Reign of Artaxerxes Longimanus; (A. M. 3550) So that the whole time of the Prophets seems to have been above 400 years.

It is observable, That of all the Sages of Greece, so celebrated in Ethnick Antiquity, not one flourish'd till after the time of the Prophets. Pythagoras himself went to Ba∣bylon, and learned many things of the Jews, which he made use of in his Philosphy and Plato also, who inserted many things out of the Books of Moses into his, was near 200 years after all.

Now if any one have a mind to prove all that is delivered in this Historical Chronology, Let him consult the Sacred Chronology, out of which it is taken.

THE END.