Bible Commentaries
Habakkuk

THE PROPHET HABAKKUK

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.

THE name of this Prophet, Habakkuk, which seems to be derived from Chabak to embrace, may be supposed to mean an Embracer: though some derive it from Nebac, to wrestle. It is well calculated that he delivered his prophecy much about the same time as Jeremiah, which was not long before the destruction of the kingdom. So that what is said in the Apocryphal writings of the history of Susanna, concerning Habakkuk carrying a dinner to Daniel in the lion's den at Babylon, is doubly proved to be fabulous, both on account of date, as well as truth. The opinion of those who conclude Daniel's dinner to have been Habakkuk's writings, is better founded. For as Habakkuk in those writings declared, that the just should live by faith, it is possible Daniel might call to mind in the den this blessed truth, and feel, refreshed from it.

The prophecy of Habakkuk is a most precious portion of scripture, and which hath received very ample testimony, both of its authenticity and inspiration. It is quoted more than once by the New Testament writers: Acts 13:41 . compared with Habakkuk 1:5 . and so again Habakkuk 2:4 . with Romans 1:17 ; Galatians 3:11 . and again the same blessed portion is a third time quoted by the same Apostle, Paul: Hebrews 10:33 . And in what numberless instances the Lord the Holy Ghost hath stamped his seal to its divine truth, in the hearts of the redeemed; who shall take upon him to say? We have many sweet glimpses given us of the Lord Jesus Christ in Habakkuk's prophecy, which I pray the Great and Almighty Author of it, who guided the Prophet's pen in writing, will guide us in reading of it, that here, as in all the other sacred records concerning Jesus, we may discover, that to Him gave all the Prophets witness; and that our faith in Him may be founded, not in the wisdom of man, but in the power of God. Amen.