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Luk 2:14. [13] Λεγόντων, saying) This whole hymn consists of two members, and has a doxology, or thanksgiving which in its turn consists of two members, and an Ætiology [or an assigning of the reason (See Append.)] for the doxology, as the particle καὶ, and [between δόξα-Θεῷ and ἐπὶ γ. εἰρήνη], implies, it not being likely that it is so placed without design. The whole may be thus paraphrased: Glory (be) to God in the highest, and on earth (may there be) peace! Why? Since there is good will [‘beneplacitum,’ God’s good pleasure and grace] among men. Iren. i. 3, c. 11, fol. 216, ed. Grab. is in conformity with this view. However, the second clause may be taken in closer connection with the first than with the third, so that there may be an Asyndeton [copula omitted] before the third clause; as in Jer 25:18; 1Sa 3:2. See Nold. Concord. part. p. 269.-δόξα, glory) Implying the mystery of redemption, and its fruit and final consummation. Moreover we ought to observe the double antithesis: 1. between, in the highest, and, on earth; 2. between, to God, and, among men.-ἐν ὑψίστοις, in the highest) By the incarnation there are called forth praises given to God by the noblest of His creatures. They do not, however, say, in heaven, where even the angels dwell; but, employing a rare expression, in the highest, a place to which the angels do not aspire: Heb 1:3-4. They wish their giving of praise to ascend to the highest region.-ἐπὶ) We are to observe the difference between this particle [on earth] and the preceding ἐν [in the highest].-γῆς, earth) not merely in Judea; nor now any longer merely in heaven. The earth is wider in its comprehension [meaning] than men: for the earth is the theatre of action even of the angels. The dwellers in heaven say, in [on] earth; the dwellers on earth say, in heaven [“Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest,” at Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem], ch. Luk 19:38.-εἰρήνη, peace) Luk 2:29.-ἀνθρώποις, men) not merely among the Jews. Heretofore men had been regarded and spoken of unfavourably among angels: now these latter, as if in wonder, give utterance to what seemed a paradox, good will among men!-εὐδοκία, good will) The newly-manifested pleasure [favourable inclination] of God towards the whole human race [name], in his Well-Beloved.