caught three: Dr. Kennicott and others contend, that for shualim:, "foxes," we should read shoalim:, "handfuls," or sheaves of corn. But:
1. The word lachad:, rendered caught, never signifies simply to get or take but always to catch, seize, or take by assault or stratagem.
2. Though the proposed alteration is sanctioned by seven manuscripts, yet all the versions are on the other side.
3. Admitting this alteration, it will be difficult to prove that the word shoal: means either a sheaf or a handful of corn in the ear, and straw. It occurs but thrice in Scriptures (1 Kings 20:10. Isaiah 40:12. Ezekiel 13:9): where it evidently means as much as can be contained in the hollow of the hand; but when handfuls of grain in the shock, or sheaves are intended, very different words are used. See note on Ruth 2:15-16, etc.
4. It is not hinted that Samson collected them alone, or in one day; he might have employed many hands and several days in the work.
5. The word shual: properly denotes the jackal, which travellers describe as an animal in size between the wolf and fox, gregarious, as many as 200 having been seen together, and the most numerous of any in eastern countries; so that Samson might have caught many of them together in nets. Psalms 63:10; Song of Solomon 2:15; Lamentations 5:18
firebrands: or, torches