Judg 6:2, 1Sa 13:6, Amo 1:2 | JFB | STEP | 2. made . . . dens . . . in the mountains and caves —not, of course, excavating them, for they were already, but making them fit for habitation. . A PROPHET REBUKES THEM.

Judges 6:2

2. made . . . dens . . . in the mountains and caves—not, of course, excavating them, for they were already, but making them fit for habitation.

Jud 6:7-10. A PROPHET REBUKES THEM.

1 Samuel 13:6

6. When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait—Though Saul's gallantry was unabated, his subjects displayed no degree of zeal and energy. Instead of venturing an encounter, they fled in all directions. Some, in their panic, left the country (1Sa 13:7), but most took refuge in the hiding-places which the broken ridges of the neighborhood abundantly afford. The rocks are perforated in every direction with "caves," and "holes," and "pits"—crevices and fissures sunk deep in the rocky soil, subterranean granaries or dry wells in the adjoining fields. The name of Michmash ("hidden treasure") seems to be derived from this natural peculiarity [STANLEY].

Amos 1:2

2. will roar—as a lion (Joe 3:16). Whereas Jehovah is there represented roaring in Israel's behalf, here He roars against her (compare Ps 18:13; Jer 25:30).

from Zion . . . Jerusalem—the seat of the theocracy, from which ye have revolted; not from Dan and Beth-el, the seat of your idolatrous worship of the calves.

habitations . . . mourn—poetical personification. Their inhabitants shall mourn, imparting a sadness to the very habitations.

Carmel—the mountain promontory north of Israel, in Asher, abounding in rich pastures, olives, and vines. The name is the symbol of fertility. When Carmel itself "withers," how utter the desolation! (So 7:5; Isa 33:9; 35:2; Jer 50:19; Na 1:4).