8 The elders and the people all answered, "Don't listen to him or agree to his demands."
8 And all the elders and all the people said unto him, Hearken not unto him, nor consent.
8 And all the elders and all the people said to him, "Do not listen or consent."
8 The elders, backed by the people, said, "Don't cave in to him. Don't give an inch."
8 And all the elders and all the people said to him, "Do not listen or consent."
8 "Don't give in to any more demands," all the elders and the people advised.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Kings 20:8
Commentary on 1 Kings 20:1-11
(Read 1 Kings 20:1-11)
Benhadad sent Ahab a very insolent demand. Ahab sent a very disgraceful submission; sin brings men into such straits, by putting them out of the Divine protection. If God do not rule us, our enemies shall: guilt dispirits men, and makes them cowards. Ahab became desperate. Men will part with their most pleasant things, those they most love, to save their lives; yet they lose their souls rather than part with any pleasure or interest to prevent it. Here is one of the wisest sayings that ever Ahab spake, and it is a good lesson to all. It is folly to boast of any day to come, since we know not what it may bring forth. Apply it to our spiritual conflicts. Peter fell by self-confidence. Happy is the man who is never off his watch.