Matthew Poole and continuators on Habakkuk 1:8

8 Their horses also are swifter then the leopards , and are more fierce then the evening wolves : and their horsemen shall spread themselves, and their horsemen shall come from far , they shall fly as the eagle that hasteth to eat.

They will be sooner upon you then you think, and when once among you, they will be swifter then you can fly from. Isa. 30.16. and Lam. 4.19.

A fierce creature, ravenous as the Lyon, and much swifter, a watchful and sly beast, from which 'tis very hard to shift.

More eager after, and more cruel to the prey.

Which with long fasting in the day, do come out in the Evening, more fierce on every thing that may be a prey for them; see Ier. 5.6. Ezek. 22.27. Zeph. 3.3.

Excellent Riders, that can manage the speed and fierceness of these horses.

All over the Land, so many shall they be, and so active, and all strong, and hale as some think the word implyeth.

As far from liking your customs, pittying your persons, or understanding your Language, as they are far remote from your Country; Men that will make you pay the charge of their long and tedious Journey.

Least you should dream of escape by flight, your enemies (O miserable Iewes) shall be so swift, you'l think they flew on wings, on Eagles wings, the swiftest of flight, and quickest in espying her prey.

Hunger makes her flight the quicker, and her siezure of the prey more bold and daring, Iob 9.26. Ezek. 17.3. so shall your enemies be to you.

Marginal references: [illegible: 1 letter]eb. sharp.; [illegible: 1 word]. 4.13.