(8) The Ammonites.--Old enemies of Judab (2Chronicles 20:1).

Gave gifts.--Paid tribute. Literally, gave a present, or offering (minch?h).

His name spread abroad even to the entering in of Egypt.--See margin. His name and influence, like Solomon's, extended to the Egyptian border.

He strengthened himself exceedingly.--He showed strength, prevailed, made head (Daniel 11:7; Daniel 11:32).

Exceedingly.--See the Notes on 1Chronicles 14:2; 1Chronicles 29:25. Syriac, "because he made much war."

Verse 8. - The Ammonites. This nation lay east of Jordan, north-east of Moab. Note the interesting references, Numbers 21:24; Deuteronomy 2:37. Gave gifts. This expression was found in our 2 Chronicles 17:11; 1 Kings 4:21; 1 Kings 10:25. The reference to tribute-payment is evident. The entering in of Egypt. This, of course, marks the breadth of the land, and describes the breadth of Uzziah's sway or influence.

26:1-15 As long as Uzziah sought the Lord, and minded religion, God made him to prosper. Those only prosper whom God makes to prosper; for prosperity is his gift. Many have owned, that as long as they sought the Lord, and kept close to their duty, they prospered; but when they forsook God, every thing went cross. God never continues either to bless the indolent or to withhold his blessing from the diligent. He will never suffer any to seek his face in vain. Uzziah's name was famed throughout all the neighbouring countries. A name with God and good people makes truly honourable. He did not delight in war, nor addict himself to sports, but delighted in husbandry.And the Ammonites gave gifts to Uzziah,.... As tributaries to him, or; however, as desirous to live in friendship with him:

and his name spread abroad, even to the entering in of Egypt; so far he carried his arms, and conquered the countries that lay between Palestine and Egypt:

for he strengthened himself exceedingly; his kingdom and its coasts from the force of enemies.