[7] Carion chron. lib. 2. p. 144.
[8] Targum Uziel. eadem pæne verba habet Targum Jerosolym.
For the right understanding of this Prophecy, We must note two things; 1. The time when the Scepter was given to Judah: 2. When taken from him. But first we must observe how these two words, Judah, and the Scepter, are distinguished.
Some take Judah,
1. For the particular Tribe of Judah[9]: but this seemeth flat contrary to Scripture, for many of the Judges were of other Tribes, and all the Maccabees of the Tribe of Levi.
2. For the Two Tribes[10] which cleaved to Rehoboam; because in that division of the People, these Two Tribes alone were called Jews, and that from Judah, and that never before this division.
3. For all the whole body of Israel[11], consisting of Twelve Tribes; all which (in the judgment of these men) were afterwards by the singular providence of God, called Jews from Judah.
[9] Origen. hom. 17. in Genes. Epiphan. contra Ebionæos, &c. maxima Hebræorum pars.
[10] Cunæus de rep. Hebr. lib. 1. cap. 5. p. 81.