George Leo Haydock
Catholic
1774–1849
“Tower; on the strength of which they ventured to treat him with insolence. Phanuel, “the face of God,” (Genesis xxxii. 33,) was near the Jaboc. (Menochius)”
The interpretation timeline
Judg 8:9
How this passage has been read — the sources, oldest to newest.
From the early Church Fathers to now.
1 Catholic · 1 Reformed
Judg 8:9 · Douay-Rheims
“He said therefore to them also: When I shall return a conqueror in peace, I will destroy this tower.”
Post-Reformation
c. 1650 – 1900
1849
A.D.
1871
A.D.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Reformed
1871
“he spake . . ., When I come again in peace, I will break down this tower--Intent on the pursuit, and afraid of losing time, he postponed the merited vengeance till his return. His confident anticipation of a triumphant return evinces the strength of his faith; and his specific threat was probably provoked by some proud and presumptuous boast, that in their lofty watchtower the Penuelites would set him at defiance.”
Modern · 1953 →
The in-app commentary runs from the Fathers to the early-modern record, then stops — that's where the public-domain sources end, not where the reading does. For the modern reading, follow the sources directly.