* But thou shalt.
The extirpation of any species of birds, whether edible or
birds of prey, is often attended with serious consequences,
and is always productive of evil; to prevent which was the
object of this law. Palestine is situated in a climate
producing poisonous snakes and scorpions, and between deserts
and mountains, from which it would be inundated by them, as
well as with immense swarms of flies, locusts, and mice, if
the birds which feed upon them were extirpated. In a moral
point of view, it may have been intended to inculcate a spirit
of mercy and kindness, and to prevent the exercise of cruelty
even towards a sparrow; for he who is guilty of such cruelty
will, if circumstances be favourable, be cruel to his
fellow-creatures.
* that it may.
4:40
* thou mayest.
Pr 22:4
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