Note 158 — CANAAN, CNAAN,
Reading edition
The measures and harmony of the Canaanites seem to have been very affecting, and to have made a wonderful impression on the minds of their audience. The infectious mode of worship prevailed so far, that the children of Israel were forbidden to weep, and make lamentation upon a festival: [158]Ειναι γαρ ἑορτην, και μη δειν εν αυτῃ κλαιειν, ου γαρ εξειναι. And Nehemiah gives the people a caution to the same purpose: [159]This day is holy unto the Lord your God: mourn not, nor weep. And Esdras counsels them in the same manner: [160]This day is holy unto the Lord: be not sorrowful. It is likewise in another place mentioned, that [161]the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy: neither be ye grieved. Such was the prohibition given to the Israelites: but among the Canaanites this shew of sorrow was encouraged, and made part of their [162]rites.