precepts] The conditions of that first covenant. See Chap. 7. 12. Ephesians 2:15. calves] So the Apostle cals the younger bullocks by reason of the neernesse of their age unto calves. goats] There is expresse mention made onely of bullocks, Exodus 24:5. but by the sacrifice of bullocks as of the principall, we are to understand the sacrifices of all other beasts. with water, &c.] There is no expresse mention made of these particulars, Exodus 24:8. Whence some conceive that Saint Paul had them either by tradition, or revelation: but it is more probable, that he gatherethd it from the usuall custome of sprinkling blood under the Law, which was with water, Scarlet-wooll, and hyssope. See Leviticus 14:6. Numbers 19:6. & 18. Psalms 51:7. scarlet] Or, purple. book] We read not that the book was sprinkled: it seemes therefore that the book was upon tho Altar and so sprinkled with it. This book was not the two Tables of stone, for these God made, but some other short summe of the first Covenant which Moses himself did write. See Exodus 24:4. Some are of opinion that thereby are meant the 20, 21. and 23. Chapters of Exodus. people] That is, the twelve pillars which represented the twelve Tribes. See Exodus 24:4.