1)
Why did he say "She'al Na l'Dor Rishon"?
1.
Rashi: Ask about the first Dor, like "She'al Na l'Yamim Rishonim."
2.
Devar Eliyahu: The first Dor were Chachamim. Those who lived many years after them, they received much from Avos ha'Olam.
3.
Malbim: This that I say, that a Tzadik's afflictions are to increase his honor later, is a tradition from the first Dor. They received it from their fathers, who investigated this matter.
2)
What is the meaning of "v'Chonen"?
1.
Rashi: Prepare to understand the investigations of their fathers.
