And it was [so] from that day forward,.... Or "upwards" , of old, formerly; and so may refer either to what was done at the war with Midian, Nu 31:27; or in the times of Abraham, Ge 14:23; and so Jarchi observes, it is not said, "henceforward", but "upwards", it being a statute and custom in the days of Abraham; the same he notes on Ge 14:24; where he, David, learnt this from thence; though Josephus is express for it, that this law obtained from the time of David; and such was his authority, though as yet not king, but a wise and just commander:that he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel unto this day; it appeared so reasonable and equitable, that it was always regarded and attended to.
hlemw "et supra", Pagninus, Montanus; "et jam olim", Tigurine version. Antiqu. l. 6. c, 14. sect.