11:14 standing by the pillar. Pillars called “Jachin” and “Boaz” framed the vestibule of the temple (1 Kin. 7:15–22). When people gathered at the temple on important occasions, such as a royal speech, they would stand in this area in front of the temple proper.

people of the land. The precise meaning of this term is disputed by scholars, and it is likely that its meaning changed during the course of Israelite history (Ezra 9:1, 2). Here it seems to designate leaders of the people who had remained faithful to the Lord and to the Davidic dynasty.

tore her clothes. See note 1 Kin. 21:27.