Explanatory Notes on the Whole Bible, by John Wesley, [1754-65], at sacred-texts.com
Jeremiah 41:1
jer 41:1
Now - Three months after the city was taken. Ishmael - The same Ishmael that came to Gedaliah, Jer 41:8-9, to whom he sware protection; only here we are told he was of the royal blood, which might both raise his spirits, as having a more legal pretence to the government, and rendered him a fitter instrument, for Baalis the king or queen of the Ammonites to make use of. The princes - Some of the princes, who had escaped the army of the king of Babylon.
Jeremiah 41:3
jer 41:3
Slew - All those who were about the court of Gedaliah.
Jeremiah 41:4
jer 41:4
No man - No man who lived at any distance from Mizpah.
Jeremiah 41:5
jer 41:5
There came men - Who possibly had not heard of the temple being burnt. Cut themselves - With all indications of mourning used in those countries.
Jeremiah 41:8
jer 41:8
He forebare - His covetousness prevailed over his cruelty.