Then the children: The conduct and answer of these Reubenites and the associates are worthy of admiration and imitation. Though conscious of their innocence, they permitted Phinehas to finish his speech, though composed of little else than accusations, without any interruption; and taking in good part the suspicions, reproofs, and even harshness of their brethren, with the utmost meekness and solemnity they explain their intention, give all the satisfaction in their power, and with great propriety and reverence, appeal to that God against whom they were supposed to have rebelled.
answered: Proverbs 15:1, Proverbs 16:1, Proverbs 18:13, Proverbs 24:26; Acts 11:4; James 1:19; 1 Peter 3:15
heads: Exodus 18:21-25; Micah 5:2