Matthew Poole and continuators on Jonah 3:8

8 But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth and cry mightily unto God ; yea, let them s turn every one from his evil way , and from the violence which is in their hands .

Every man from greatest, the King on the Throne, to the least, the beggar on the dunghill, put off his usual and softer habit, and afflict themselves in coursest garments.

Their Horses in which they gloried much, their Camels also, both which they adorned with rich and costly clothing in their Stables, and with as rich furniture for Saddles, Bridles, and Trappings when they were used abroad, now all in Testimony of an hearty repentance must clothe with Sackcloth, the clothing of beasts must witness for men.

Beasts in distresse and starving cry to God as the young Ravens and hungry Lions, and so here Beasts of the Herd and Flock cry. But 'tis to be referred to men lamenting their sins, deprecating judgments, imploring mercy with all earnestness and vehemency of desire, called here a crying mightily to God, as chap. 1.5.

The inhabitants of Niniveh whether Traders, or who live at their ease and pleasure there let them reform and amend their doings.

The Edict for ceasing from violence is as full and particular as the Edict for Fasting, all are commanded to be just and righteous.

Not cease from single acts onely but change the course and habitual manner of life called here their way every one was vicious, and each one almost had some particular method of sin, which was his way of sinning this must they turn from.

Oppression and rapine as a chief sin is here particularly mentioned, compare this with N[illegible: 1 letter]h. 3.1.

Which acted by them is still in their hands both in the guilt of it, the effects of it, and as publickly known as what is seen in a mans hands, Vid. Psal. 7.3.

Marginal references: Isa. 59.6[illegible: 1 letter]