Matthew Poole and continuators on 1 Samuel 4:18

18 And it came to pass when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward , by the side of the gate , and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy , and he had judged Israel forty years.

Being so oppressed with Grief and Astonishment, that he had no Strength left to support him.

To wit, the Gate of the City, which was most convenient for the speedy understanding of all Occurrences.

Old, and therefore weak and apt to fall; Heavy, and therefore his fall more dangerous and pernicious.

He was their Supreme Governor, both in Civils and Spirituals.