the wilderness The Heb. word for "wilderness" does not necessarily mean a barrendistrict; but a wide open tract used for pasture, as distinguished from arable land. Cp. Psalms 65:12; Joel 1:19-20; Joel 2:22.

naughtiness i.e. wickedness. David's advancement seems to have roused Eliab's jealousy. He imputes the worst motives to him and taunts him with (1) neglect of duty; (2) arrogance and discontent with his humble occupation; (3) unseemly eagerness for the sight of bloodshed. Eliab was unable to enter into the nature of David's lofty indignation. Compare the hatred of Joseph's brethren (Genesis 37:4).

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