GetPassage urn:cts:pbc:bible.parallel.eng.kingjames:_7 urn:cts:pbc:bible.parallel.eng.kingjames:_7 [ A Prologue made by an uncertain Author ] This Jesus was the son of Sirach , and grandchild to Jesus of the same name with him : this man therefore lived in the latter times , after the people had been led away captive , and called home a again , and almost after all the prophets . Now his grandfather Jesus , as he himself witnesseth , was a man of great diligence and wisdom among the Hebrews , who did not only gather the grave and short sentences of wise men , that had been before him , but himself also uttered some of his own , full of much understanding and wisdom . When as therefore the first Jesus died , leaving this book almost perfected , Sirach his son receiving it after him left it to his own son Jesus , who , having gotten it into his hands , compiled it all orderly into one volume , and called it Wisdom , intituling it both by his own name , his father's name , and his grandfather's ; alluring the hearer by the very name of Wisdom to have a greater love to the study of this book . It containeth therefore wise sayings , dark sentences , and parables , and certain particular ancient godly stories of men that pleased God ; also his prayer and song ; moreover , what benefits God had vouchsafed his people , and what plagues he had heaped upon their enemies . This Jesus did imitate Solomon , and was no less famous for wisdom and learning , both being indeed a man of great learning , and so reputed also . [ The Prologue of the Wisdom of Jesus the Son of Sirach . ] Whereas many and great things have been delivered unto us by the law and the prophets , and by others that have followed their steps , for the which things Israel ought to be commended for learning and wisdom ; and whereof not only the readers must needs become skilful themselves , but also they that desire to learn be able to profit them which are without , both by speaking and writing : my grandfather Jesus , when he had much given himself to the reading of the law , and the prophets , and other books of our fathers , and had gotten therein good judgment , was drawn on also himself to write something pertaining to learning and wisdom ; to the intent that those which are desirous to learn , and are addicted to these things , might profit much more in living according to the law . Wherefore let me intreat you to read it with favour and attention , and to pardon us , wherein we may seem to come short of some words , which we have laboured to interpret . For the same things uttered in Hebrew , and translated into another tongue , have not the same force in them : and not only these things , but the law itself , and the prophets , and the rest of the books , have no small difference , when they are spoken in their own language . For in the eight and thirtieth year coming into Egypt , when Euergetes was king , and continuing there some time , I found a book of no small learning : therefore I thought it most necessary for me to bestow some diligence and travail to interpret it ; using great watchfulness and skill in that space to bring the book to an end , and set it forth for them also , which in a strange country are willing to learn , being prepared before in manners to live after the law . All wisdom cometh from the Lord , and is with him for ever . Who can number the sand of the sea , and the drops of rain , and the days of eternity ? Who can find out the height of heaven , and the breadth of the earth , and the deep , and wisdom ? Wisdom hath been created before all things , and the understanding of prudence from everlasting . The word of God most high is the fountain of wisdom ; and her ways are everlasting commandments . To whom hath the root of wisdom been revealed ? or who hath known her wise counsels ? [ Unto whom hath the knowledge of wisdom been made manifest ? and who hath understood her great experience ? ] There is one wise and greatly to be feared , the Lord sitting upon his throne . He created her , and saw her , and numbered her , and poured her out upon all his works . She is with all flesh according to his gift , and he hath given her to them that love him . The fear of the Lord is honour , and glory , and gladness , and a crown of rejoicing . The fear of the Lord maketh a merry heart , and giveth joy , and gladness , and a long life . Whoso feareth the Lord , it shall go well with him at the last , and he shall find favour in the day of his death . To fear the Lord is the beginning of wisdom : and it was created with the faithful in the womb . She hath built an everlasting foundation with men , and she shall continue with their seed . To fear the Lord is fulness of wisdom , and filleth men with her fruits . She filleth all their house with things desirable , and the garners with her increase . The fear of the Lord is a crown of wisdom , making peace and perfect health to flourish ; both which are the gifts of God : and it enlargeth their rejoicing that love him . Wisdom raineth down skill and knowledge of understanding standing , and exalteth them to honour that hold her fast . The root of wisdom is to fear the Lord , and the branches thereof are long life . The fear of the Lord driveth away sins : and where it is present , it turneth away wrath . A furious man cannot be justified ; for the sway of his fury shall be his destruction . A patient man will tear for a time , and afterward joy shall spring up unto him . He will hide his words for a time , and the lips of many shall declare his wisdom . The parables of knowledge are in the treasures of wisdom : but godliness is an abomination to a sinner . If thou desire wisdom , keep the commandments , and the Lord shall give her unto thee . For the fear of the Lord is wisdom and instruction : and faith and meekness are his delight . Distrust not the fear of the Lord when thou art poor : and come not unto him with a double heart . Be not an hypocrite in the sight of men , and take good heed what thou speakest . Exalt not thyself , lest thou fall , and bring dishonour upon thy soul , and so God discover thy secrets , and cast thee down in the midst of the congregation , because thou camest not in truth to the fear of the Lord , but thy heart is full of deceit . My son , if thou come to serve the Lord , prepare thy soul for temptation . Set thy heart aright , and constantly endure , and make not haste in time of trouble . Cleave unto him , and depart not away , that thou mayest be increased at thy last end . Whatsoever is brought upon thee take cheerfully , and be patient when thou art changed to a low estate . For gold is tried in the fire , and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity . Believe in him , and he will help thee ; order thy way aright , and trust in him . Ye that fear the Lord , wait for his mercy ; and go not aside , lest ye fall . Ye that fear the Lord , believe him ; and your reward shall not fail . Ye that fear the Lord , hope for good , and for everlasting joy and mercy . Look at the generations of old , and see ; did ever any trust in the Lord , and was confounded ? or did any abide in his fear , and was forsaken ? or whom did he ever despise , that called upon him ? For the Lord is full of compassion and mercy , longsuffering , and very pitiful , and forgiveth sins , and saveth in time of affliction . Woe be to fearful hearts , and faint hands , and the sinner that goeth two ways ! Woe unto him that is fainthearted ! for he believeth not ; therefore shall he not be defended . Woe unto you that have lost patience ! and what will ye do when the Lord shall visit you ? They that fear the Lord will not disobey his Word ; and they that love him will keep his ways . They that fear the Lord will seek that which is well , pleasing unto him ; and they that love him shall be filled with the law . They that fear the Lord will prepare their hearts , and humble their souls in his sight , Saying , We will fall into the hands of the Lord , and not into the hands of men : for as his majesty is , so is his mercy . Hear me your father , O children , and do thereafter , that ye may be safe . For the Lord hath given the father honour over the children , and hath confirmed the authority of the mother over the sons . Whoso honoureth his father maketh an atonement for his sins : And he that honoureth his mother is as one that layeth up treasure . Whoso honoureth his father shall have joy of his own children ; and when he maketh his prayer , he shall be heard . He that honoureth his father shall have a long life ; and he that is obedient unto the Lord shall be a comfort to his mother . He that feareth the Lord will honour his father , and will do service unto his parents , as to his masters . Honour thy father and mother both in word and deed , that a blessing may come upon thee from them . For the blessing of the father establisheth the houses of children ; but the curse of the mother rooteth out foundations . Glory not in the dishonour of thy father ; for thy father's dishonour is no glory unto thee . For the glory of a man is from the honour of his father ; and a mother in dishonour is a reproach to the children . My son , help thy father in his age , and grieve him not as long as he liveth . And if his understanding fail , have patience with him ; and despise him not when thou art in thy full strength . For the relieving of thy father shall not be forgotten : and instead of sins it shall be added to build thee up . In the day of thine affliction it shall be remembered ; thy sins also shall melt away , as the ice in the fair warm weather . He that forsaketh his father is as a blasphemer ; and he that angereth his mother is cursed : of God . My son , go on with thy business in meekness ; so shalt thou be beloved of him that is approved . The greater thou art , the more humble thyself , and thou shalt find favour before the Lord . Many are in high place , and of renown : but mysteries are revealed unto the meek . For the power of the Lord is great , and he is honoured of the lowly . Seek not out things that are too hard for thee , neither search the things that are above thy strength . But what is commanded thee , think thereupon with reverence , for it is not needful for thee to see with thine eyes the things that are in secret . Be not curious in unnecessary matters : for more things are shewed unto thee than men understand . For many are deceived by their own vain opinion ; and an evil suspicion hath overthrown their judgment . Without eyes thou shalt want light : profess not the knowledge therefore that thou hast not . A stubborn heart shall fare evil at the last ; and he that loveth danger shall perish therein . An obstinate heart shall be laden with sorrows ; and the wicked man shall heap sin upon sin . In the punishment of the proud there is no remedy ; for the plant of wickedness hath taken root in him . The heart of the prudent will understand a parable ; and an attentive ear is the desire of a wise man . Water will quench a flaming fire ; and alms maketh an atonement for sins . And he that requiteth good turns is mindful of that which may come hereafter ; and when he falleth , he shall find a stay . My son , defraud not the poor of his living , and make not the needy eyes to wait long . Make not an hungry soul sorrowful ; neither provoke a man in his distress . Add not more trouble to an heart that is vexed ; and defer not to give to him that is in need . Reject not the supplication of the afflicted ; neither turn away thy face from a poor man . Turn not away thine eye from the needy , and give him none occasion to curse thee : For if he curse thee in the bitterness of his soul , his prayer shall be heard of him that made him . Get thyself the love of the congregation , and bow thy head to a great man . Let it not grieve thee to bow down thine ear to the poor , and give him a friendly answer with meekness . Deliver him that suffereth wrong from the hand of the oppressor ; and be not fainthearted when thou sittest in judgment . Be as a father unto the fatherless , and instead of an husband unto their mother : so shalt thou be as the son of the most High , and he shall love thee more than thy mother doth . Wisdom exalteth her children , and layeth hold of them that seek her . He that loveth her loveth life ; and they that seek to her early shall be filled with joy . He that holdeth her fast shall inherit glory ; and wheresoever she entereth , the Lord will bless . They that serve her shall minister to the Holy One : and them that love her the Lord doth love . Whoso giveth ear unto her shall judge the nations : and he that attendeth unto her shall dwell securely . If a man commit himself unto her , he shall inherit her ; and his generation shall hold her in possession . For at the first she will walk with him by crooked ways , and bring fear and dread upon him , and torment him with her discipline , until she may trust his soul , and try him by her laws . Then will she return the straight way unto him , and comfort him , and shew him her secrets . But if he go wrong , she will forsake him , and give him over to his own ruin . Observe the opportunity , and beware of evil ; and be not ashamed when it concerneth thy soul . For there is a shame that bringeth sin ; and there is a shame which is glory and grace . Accept no person against thy soul , and let not the reverence of any man cause thee to fall . And refrain not to speak , when there is occasion to do good , and hide not thy wisdom in her beauty . For by speech wisdom shall be known : and learning by the word of the tongue . In no wise speak against the truth ; but be abashed of the error of thine ignorance . Be not ashamed to confess thy sins ; and force not the course of the river . Make not thyself an underling to a foolish man ; neither accept the person of the mighty . Strive for the truth unto death , and the Lord shall fight for thee . Be not hasty in thy tongue , and in thy deeds slack and remiss . Be not as a lion in thy house , nor frantick among thy servants . Let not thine hand be stretched out to receive , and shut when thou shouldest repay . Set thy heart upon thy goods ; and say not , I have enough for my life . Follow not thine own mind and thy strength , to walk in the ways of thy heart : And say not , Who shall controul me for my works ? for the Lord will surely revenge thy pride . Say not , I have sinned , and what harm hath happened unto me ? for the Lord is longsuffering , he will in no wise let thee go . Concerning propitiation , be not without fear to add sin unto sin : And say not His mercy is great ; he will be pacified for the multitude of my sins : for mercy and wrath come from him , and his indignation resteth upon sinners . Make no tarrying to turn to the Lord , and put not off from day to day : for suddenly shall the wrath of the Lord come forth , and in thy security thou shalt be destroyed , and perish in the day of vengeance . Set not thine heart upon goods unjustly gotten , for they shall not profit thee in the day of calamity . Winnow not with every wind , and go not into every way : for so doth the sinner that hath a double tongue . Be stedfast in thy understanding ; and let thy word be the same . Be swift to hear ; and let thy life be sincere ; and with patience give answer . If thou hast understanding , answer thy neighbour ; if not , lay thy hand upon thy mouth . Honour and shame is in talk : and the tongue of man is his fall . Be not called a whisperer , and lie not in wait with thy tongue : for a foul shame is upon the thief , and an evil condemnation upon the double tongue . Be not ignorant of any thing in a great matter or a small . Instead of a friend become not an enemy ; for [ thereby ] thou shalt inherit an ill name , shame , and reproach : even so shall a sinner that hath a double tongue . Extol not thyself in the counsel of thine own heart ; that thy soul be not torn in pieces as a bull [ straying alone . ] Thou shalt eat up thy leaves , and lose thy fruit , and leave thyself as a dry tree . A wicked soul shall destroy him that hath it , and shall make him to be laughed to scorn of his enemies . Sweet language will multiply friends : and a fairspeaking tongue will increase kind greetings . Be in peace with many : nevertheless have but one counsellor of a thousand . If thou wouldest get a friend , prove him first and be not hasty to credit him . For some man is a friend for his own occasion , and will not abide in the day of thy trouble . And there is a friend , who being turned to enmity , and strife will discover thy reproach . Again , some friend is a companion at the table , and will not continue in the day of thy affliction . But in thy prosperity he will be as thyself , and will be bold over thy servants . If thou be brought low , he will be against thee , and will hide himself from thy face . Separate thyself from thine enemies , and take heed of thy friends . A faithfu 1 l friend is a strong defence : and he that hath found such an one hath found a treasure . Nothing doth countervail a faithful friend , and his excellency is invaluable . A faithful friend is the medicine of life ; and they that fear the Lord shall find him . Whoso feareth the Lord shall direct his friendship aright : for as he is , so shall his neighbour be also . My son , gather instruction from thy youth up : so shalt thou find wisdom till thine old age . Come unto her as one that ploweth and soweth , and wait for her good fruits : for thou shalt not toil much in labouring about her , but thou shalt eat of her fruits right soon . She is very unpleasant to the unlearned : he that is without understanding will not remain with her . She will lie upon him as a mighty stone of trial ; and he will cast her from him ere it be long . For wisdom is according to her name , and she is not manifest unto many . Give ear , my son , receive my advice , and refuse not my counsel , And put thy feet into her fetters , and thy neck into her chain . Bow down thy shoulder , and bear her , and be not grieved with her bonds . Come unto her with thy whole heart , and keep her ways with all thy power . Search , and seek , and she shall be made known unto thee : and when thou hast got hold of her , let her not go . For at the last thou shalt find her rest , and that shall be turned to thy joy . Then shall her fetters be a strong defence for thee , and her chains a robe of glory . For there is a golden ornament upon her , and her bands are purple lace . Thou shalt put her on as a robe of honour , and shalt put her about thee as a crown of joy . My son , if thou wilt , thou shalt be taught : and if thou wilt apply thy mind , thou shalt be prudent . If thou love to hear , thou shalt receive understanding : and if thou bow thine ear , thou shalt be wise , Stand in the multitude of the elders ; and cleave unto him that is wise . Be willing to hear every godly discourse ; and let not the parables of understanding escape thee . And if thou seest a man of understanding , get thee betimes unto him , and let thy foot wear the steps of his door . Let thy mind be upon the ordinances of the Lord and meditate continually in his commandments : he shall establish thine heart , and give thee wisdom at thine owns desire . Do no evil , so shall no harm come unto thee . Depart from the unjust , and iniquity shall turn away from thee . My son , sow not upon the furrows of unrighteousness , and thou shalt not reap them sevenfold . Seek not of the Lord preeminence , neither of the king the seat of honour . justify not thyself before the Lord ; and boast not of thy wisdom before the king . Seek not to be judge , being not able to take away iniquity ; lest at any time thou fear the person of the mighty , an stumblingblock in the way of thy uprightness . Offend not against the multitude of a city , and then thou shalt not cast thyself down among the people . Bind not one sin upon another ; for in one thou shalt not be unpunished . Say not , God will look upon the multitude of my oblations , and when I offer to the most high God , he will accept it . Be not fainthearted when thou makest thy prayer , and neglect not to give alms . Laugh no man to scorn in the bitterness of his soul : for there is one which humbleth and exalteth . Devise not a lie against thy brother ; neither do the like to thy friend . Use not to make any manner of lie : for the custom thereof is not good . Use not many words in a multitude of elders , and make not much babbling when thou prayest . Hate not laborious work , neither husbandry , which the most High hath ordained . Number not thyself among the multitude of sinners , but remember that wrath will not tarry long . Humble thyself greatly : for the vengeance of the ungodly is fire and worms . Change not a friend for any good by no means ; neither a faithful brother for the gold of Ophir . Forego not a wise and good woman : for her grace is above gold . Whereas thy servant worketh truly , entreat him not evil . nor the hireling that bestoweth himself wholly for thee . Let thy soul love a good servant , and defraud him not of liberty . Hast thou cattle ? have an eye to them : and if they be for thy profit , keep them with thee . Hast thou children ? instruct them , and bow down their neck from their youth . Hast thou daughters ? have a care of their body , and shew not thyself cheerful toward them . Marry thy daughter , and so shalt thou have performed a weighty matter : but give her to a man of understanding . Hast thou a wife after thy mind ? forsake her not : but give not thyself over to a light woman . Honour thy father with thy whole heart , and forget not the sorrows of thy mother . Remember that thou wast begotten of them ; and how canst thou recompense them the things that they have done for thee ? Fear the Lord with all thy soul , and reverence his priests . Love him that made thee with all thy strength , and forsake not his ministers . Fear the Lord , and honor the priest ; and give him his portion , as it is commanded thee ; the firstfruits , and the trespass offering , and the gift of the shoulders , and the sacrifice of sanctification , and the firstfruits of the holy things . And stretch thine hand unto the poor , that thy blessing may be perfected . A gift hath grace in the sight of every man living ; and for the dead detain it not . Fail not to be with them that weep , and mourn with them that mourn . Be not slow to visit the sick : fir that shall make thee to be beloved . Whatsoever thou takest in hand , remember the end , and thou shalt never do amiss . Strive not with a mighty man' lest thou fall into his hands . Be not at variance with a rich man , lest he overweigh thee : for gold hath destroyed many , and perverted the hearts of kings . Strive not with a man that is full of tongue , and heap not wood upon his fire . Jest not with a rude man , lest thy ancestors be disgraced . Reproach not a man that turneth from sin , but remember that we are all worthy of punishment . Dishonour not a man in his old age : for even some of us wax old . Rejoice not over thy greatest enemy being dead , but remember that we die all . Despise not the discourse of the wise , but acquaint thyself with their proverbs : for of them thou shalt learn instruction , and how to serve great men with ease . Miss not the discourse of the elders : for they also learned of their fathers , and of them thou shalt learn understanding , and to give answer as need requireth . Kindle not the coals of a sinner , lest thou be burnt with the flame of his fire . Rise not up [ in anger ] at the presence of an injurious person , lest he lie in wait to entrap thee in thy words Lend not unto him that is mightier than thyself ; for if thou lendest him , count it but lost . Be not surety above thy power : for if thou be surety , take care to pay it . Go not to law with a judge ; for they will judge for him according to his honour . Travel not by the way with a bold fellow , lest he become grievous unto thee : for he will do according to his own will , and thou shalt perish with him through his folly . Strive not with an angry man , and go not with him into a solitary place : for blood is as nothing in his sight , and where there is no help , he will overthrow thee . Consult not with a fool ; for he cannot keep counsel . Do no secret thing before a stranger ; for thou knowest not what he will bring forth . Open not thine heart to every man , lest he requite thee with a shrewd turn . Be not jealous over the wife of thy bosom , and teach her not an evil lesson against thyself . Give not thy soul unto a woman to set her foot upon thy substance . Meet not with an harlot , lest thou fall into her snares . Use not much the company of a woman that is a singer , lest thou be taken with her attempts . Gaze not on a maid , that thou fall not by those things that are precious in her . Give not thy soul unto harlots , that thou lose not thine inheritance . Look not round about thee in the streets of the city , neither wander thou in the solitary place thereof . Turn away thine eye from a beautiful woman , and look not upon another's beauty ; for many have been deceived by the beauty of a woman ; for herewith love is kindled as a fire . Sit not at all with another man's wife , nor sit down with her in thine arms , and spend not thy money with her at the wine ; lest thine heart incline unto her , and so through thy desire thou fall into destruction . Forsake not an old friend ; for the new is not comparable to him : a new friend is as new wine ; when it is old , thou shalt drink it with pleasure . Envy not the glory of a sinner : for thou knowest not what shall be his end . Delight not in the thing that the ungodly have pleasure in ; but remember they shall not go unpunished unto their grave . Keep thee far from the man that hath power to kill ; so shalt thou not doubt the fear of death : and if thou come unto him , make no fault , lest he take away thy life presently : remember that thou goest in the midst of snares , and that thou walkest upon the battlements of the city . As near as thou canst , guess at thy neighbour , and consult with the wise . Let thy talk be with the wise , and all thy communication in the law of the most High . And let just men eat and drink with thee ; and let thy glorying be in the fear of the Lord . For the hand of the artificer the work shall be commended : and the wise ruler of the people for his speech . A man of an ill tongue is dangerous in his city ; and he that is rash in his talk shall be hated . A wise judge will instruct his people ; and the government of a prudent man is well ordered . As the judge of the people is himself , so are his officers ; and what manner of man the ruler of the city is , such are all they that dwell therein . An unwise king destroyeth his people ; but through the prudence of them which are in authority the city shall be inhabited . The power of the earth is in the hand of the Lord , and in due time he will set over it one that is profitable . In the hand of God is the prosperity of man : and upon the person of the scribe shall he lay his honour . Bear not hatred to thy neighbour for every wrong ; and do nothing at all by injurious practices . Pride is hateful before God and man : and by both doth one commit iniquity . Because of unrighteous dealings , injuries , and riches got by deceit , the kingdom is translated from one people to another . Why is earth and ashes proud ? There is not a more wicked thing than a covetous man : for such an one setteth his own soul to sale ; because while he liveth he casteth away his bowels . The physician cutteth off a long disease ; and he that is to day a king to morrow shall die . For when a man is dead , he shall inherit creeping things , beasts , and worms . The beginning of pride is when one departeth from God , and his heart is turned away from his Maker . For pride is the beginning of sin , and he that hath it shall pour out abomination : and therefore the Lord brought upon them strange calamities , and overthrew them utterly . The Lord hath cast down the thrones of proud princes , and set up the meek in their stead . The Lord hath plucked up the roots of the proud nations , and planted the lowly in their place . The Lord overthrew countries of the heathen , and destroyed them to the foundations of the earth . He took some of them away , and destroyed them , and hath made their memorial to cease from the earth . Pride was not made for men , nor furious anger for them that are born of a woman . They that fear the Lord are a sure seed , and they that love him an honourable plant : they that regard not the law are a dishonourable seed ; they that transgress the commandments are a deceivable seed . Among brethren he that is chief is honorable ; so are they that fear the Lord in his eyes . The fear of the Lord goeth before the obtaining of authority : but roughness and pride is the losing thereof . Whether he be rich , noble , or poor , their glory is the fear of the Lord . It is not meet to despise the poor man that hath understanding ; neither is it convenient to magnify a sinful man . Great men , and judges , and potentates , shall be honoured ; yet is there none of them greater than he that feareth the Lord . Unto the servant that is wise shall they that are free do service : and he that hath knowledge will not grudge when he is reformed . Be not overwise in doing thy business ; and boast not thyself in the time of thy distress . Better is he that laboureth , and aboundeth in all things , than he that boasteth himself , and wanteth bread . My son , glorify thy soul in meekness , and give it honour according to the dignity thereof . Who will justify him that sinneth against his own soul ? and who will honour him that dishonoureth his own life ? The poor man is honoured for his skill , and the rich man is honoured for his riches . He that is honoured in poverty , how much more in riches ? and he that is dishonourable in riches , how much more in poverty ? Wisdom lifteth up the head of him that is of low degree , and maketh him to sit among great men . Commend not a man for his beauty ; neither abhor a man for his outward appearance . The bee is little among such as fly ; but her fruit is the chief of sweet things . Boast not of thy clothing and raiment , and exalt not thyself in the day of honour : for the works of the Lord are wonderful , and his works among men are hidden . Many kings have sat down upon the ground ; and one that was never thought of hath worn the crown . Many mighty men have been greatly disgraced ; and the honourable delivered into other men's hands . Blame not before thou hast examined the truth : understand first , and then rebuke . Answer not before thou hast heard the cause : neither interrupt men in the midst of their talk . Strive not in a matter that concerneth thee not ; and sit not in judgment with sinners . My son , meddle not with many matters : for if thou meddle much , thou shalt not be innocent ; and if thou follow after , thou shalt not obtain , neither shalt thou escape by fleeing . There is one that laboureth , and taketh pains , and maketh haste , and is so much the more behind . Again , there is another that is slow , and hath need of help , wanting ability , and full of poverty ; yet the eye of the Lord looked upon him for good , and set him up from his low estate , And lifted up his head from misery ; so that many that saw from him is peace over all the Prosperity and adversity , life and death , poverty and riches , come of the Lord . Wisdom , knowledge , and understanding of the law , are of the Lord : love , and the way of good works , are from him . Error and darkness had their beginning together with sinners : and evil shall wax old with them that glory therein . The gift of the Lord remaineth with the ungodly , and his favour bringeth prosperity for ever . There is that waxeth rich by his wariness and pinching , and this his the portion of his reward : Whereas he saith , I have found rest , and now will eat continually of my goods ; and yet he knoweth not what time shall come upon him , and that he must leave those things to others , and die . Be stedfast in thy covenant , and be conversant therein , and wax old in thy work . Marvel not at the works of sinners ; but trust in the Lord , and abide in thy labour : for it is an easy thing in the sight of the Lord on the sudden to make a poor man rich . The blessing of the Lord is in the reward of the godly , and suddenly he maketh his blessing flourish . Say not , What profit is there of my service ? and what good things shall I have hereafter ? Again , say not , I have enough , and possess many things , and what evil shall I have hereafter ? In the day of prosperity there is a forgetfulness of affliction : and in the day of affliction there is no more remembrance of prosperity . For it is an easy thing unto the Lord in the day of death to reward a man according to his ways . The affliction of an hour maketh a man forget pleasure : and in his end his deeds shall be discovered . Judge none blessed before his death : for a man shall be known in his children . Bring not every man into thine house : for the deceitful man hath many trains . Like as a partridge taken [ and kept ] in a cage , so is the heart of the proud ; and like as a spy , watcheth he for thy fall : For he lieth in wait , and turneth good into evil , and in things worthy praise will lay blame upon thee . Of a spark of fire a heap of coals is kindled : and a sinful man layeth wait for blood . Take heed of a mischievous man , for he worketh wickedness ; lest he bring upon thee a perpetual blot . Receive a stranger into thine house , and he will disturb thee , and turn thee out of thine own . When thou wilt do good know to whom thou doest it ; so shalt thou be thanked for thy benefits . Do good to the godly man , and thou shalt find a recompence ; and if not from him , yet from the most High . There can no good come to him that is always occupied in evil , nor to him that giveth no alms . Give to the godly man , and help not a sinner . Do well unto him that is lowly , but give not to the ungodly : hold back thy bread , and give it not unto him , lest he overmaster thee thereby : for [ else ] thou shalt receive twice as much evil for all the good thou shalt have done unto him . For the most High hateth sinners , and will repay vengeance unto the ungodly , and keepeth them against the mighty day of their punishment . Give unto the good , and help not the sinner . A friend cannot be known in prosperity : and an enemy cannot be hidden in adversity . In the prosperity of a man enemies will be grieved : but in his adversity even a friend will depart . Never trust thine enemy : for like as iron rusteth , so is his wickedness . Though he humble himself , and go crouching , yet take good heed and beware of him , and thou shalt be unto him as if thou hadst wiped a lookingglass , and thou shalt know that his rust hath not been altogether wiped away . Set him not by thee , lest , when he hath overthrown thee , he stand up in thy place ; neither let him sit at thy right hand , lest he seek to take thy seat , and thou at the last remember my words , and be pricked therewith . Who will pity a charmer that is bitten with a serpent , or any such as come nigh wild beasts ? So one that goeth to a sinner , and is defiled with him in his sins , who will pity ? For a while he will abide with thee , but if thou begin to fall , he will not tarry . An enemy speaketh sweetly with his lips , but in his heart he imagineth how to throw thee into a pit : he will weep with his eyes , but if he find opportunity , he will not be satisfied with blood . If adversity come upon thee , thou shalt find him there first ; and though he pretend to help thee , yet shall he undermine thee . He will shake his head , and clap his hands , and whisper much , and change his countenance . He that toucheth pitch shall be defiled therewith ; and he that hath fellowship with a proud man shall be like unto him . Burden not thyself above thy power while thou livest ; and have no fellowship with one that is mightier and richer than thyself : for how agree the kettle and the earthen pot together ? for if the one be smitten against the other , it shall be broken . The rich man hath done wrong , and yet he threateneth withal : the poor is wronged , and he must intreat also . If thou be for his profit , he will use thee : but if thou have nothing , he will forsake thee . If thou have any thing , he will live with thee : yea , he will make thee bare , and will not be sorry for it . If he have need of thee , he will deceive thee , and smile upon thee , and put thee in hope ; he will speak thee fair , and say , What wantest thou ? And he will shame thee by his meats , until he have drawn thee dry twice or thrice , and at the last he will laugh thee to scorn afterward , when he seeth thee , he will forsake thee , and shake his head at thee . Beware that thou be not deceived and brought down in thy jollity . If thou be invited of a mighty man , withdraw thyself , and so much the more will he invite thee . Press thou not upon him , lest thou be put back ; stand not far off , lest thou be forgotten . Affect not to be made equal unto him in talk , and believe not his many words : for with much communication will he tempt thee , and smiling upon thee will get out thy secrets : But cruelly he will lay up thy words , and will not spare to do thee hurt , and to put thee in prison . Observe , and take good heed , for thou walkest in peril of thy overthrowing : when thou hearest these things , awake in thy sleep . Love the Lord all thy life , and call upon him for thy salvation . Every beast loveth his like , and every man loveth his neighbor . All flesh consorteth according to kind , and a man will cleave to his like . What fellowship hath the wolf with the lamb ? so the sinner with the godly . What agreement is there between the hyena and a dog ? and what peace between the rich and the poor ? As the wild ass is the lion's prey in the wilderness : so the rich eat up the poor . As the proud hate humility : so doth the rich abhor the poor . A rich man beginning to fall is held up of his friends : but a poor man being down is thrust away by his friends . When a rich man is fallen , he hath many helpers : he speaketh things not to be spoken , and yet men justify him : the poor man slipped , and yet they rebuked him too ; he spake wisely , and could have no place . When a rich man speaketh , every man holdeth his tongue , and , look , what he saith , they extol it to the clouds : but if the poor man speak , they say , What fellow is this ? and if he stumble , they will help to overthrow him . Riches are good unto him that hath no sin , and poverty is evil in the mouth of the ungodly . The heart of a man changeth his countenance , whether it be for good or evil : and a merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance . A cheerful countenance is a token of a heart that is in prosperity ; and the finding out of parables is a wearisome labour of the mind . Blessed is the man that hath not slipped with his mouth , and is not pricked with the multitude of sins . Blessed is he whose conscience hath not condemned him , and who is not fallen from his hope in the Lord . Riches are not comely for a niggard : and what should an envious man do with money ? He that gathereth by defrauding his own soul gathereth for others , that shall spend his goods riotously . He that is evil to himself , to whom will he be good ? he shall not take pleasure in his goods . There is none worse than he that envieth himself ; and this is a recompence of his wickedness . And if he doeth good , he doeth it unwillingly ; and at the last he will declare his wickedness . The envious man hath a wicked eye ; he turneth away his face , and despiseth men . A covetous man's eye is not satisfied with his portion ; and the iniquity of the wicked drieth up his soul . A wicked eye envieth [ his ] bread , and he is a niggard at his table . My son , according to thy ability do good to thyself , and give the Lord his due offering . Remember that death will not be long in coming , and that the covenant of the grave is not shewed unto thee . Do good unto thy friend before thou die , and according to thy ability stretch out thy hand and give to him . Defraud not thyself of the good day , and let not the part of a good desire overpass thee . Shalt thou not leave thy travails unto another ? and thy labours to be divided by lot ? Give , and take , and sanctify thy soul ; for there is no seeking of dainties in the grave . All flesh waxeth old as a garment : for the covenant from the beginning is , Thou shalt die the death . As of the green leaves on a thick tree , some fall , and some grow ; so is the generation of flesh and blood , one cometh to an end , and another is born . Every work rotteth and consumeth away , and the worker thereof shall go withal . Blessed is the man that doth meditate good things in wisdom , and that reasoneth of holy things by his understanding . ing . He that considereth her ways in his heart shall also have understanding in her secrets . Go after her as one that traceth , and lie in wait in her ways . He that prieth in at her windows shall also hearken at her doors . He that doth lodge near her house shall also fasten a pin in her walls . He shall pitch his tent nigh unto her , and shall lodge in a lodging where good things are . He shall set his children under her shelter , and shall lodge under her branches . By her he shall be covered from heat , and in her glory shall he dwell . He that feareth the Lord will do good , and he that hath the knowledge of the law shall obtain her . And as a mother shall she meet him , and receive him as a wife married of a virgin . With the bread of understanding shall she feed him , and give him the water of wisdom to drink . He shall be stayed upon her , and shall not be moved ; and shall rely upon her , and shall not be confounded . She shall exalt him above his neighbours , and in the midst of the congregation shall she open his mouth . He shall find joy and a crown of gladness , and she shall cause him to inherit an everlasting name . But foolish men shall not attain unto her , and sinners shall not see her . For she is far from pride , and men that are liars cannot remember her . Praise is not seemly in the mouth of a sinner , for it was not sent him of the Lord . For praise shall be uttered in wisdom , and the Lord will prosper it . Say not thou , It is through the Lord that I fell away : for thou oughtest not to do the things that he hateth . Say not thou , He hath caused me to err : for he hath no need of the sinful man . The Lord hateth all abomination ; and they that fear God love it not . He himself made man from the beginning , and left him in the hand of his counsel ; If thou wilt , to keep the commandments , and to perform acceptable faithfulness . He hath set fire and water before thee : stretch forth thy hand unto whether thou wilt . Before man is life and death ; and whether him liketh shall be given him . For the wisdom of the Lord is great , and he is mighty in power , and beholdeth all things : And his eyes are upon them that fear him , and he knoweth every work of man . He hath commanded no man to do wickedly , neither hath he given any man licence to sin . Desire not a multitude of unprofitable children , neither delight in ungodly sons . Though they multiply , rejoice not in them , except the fear of the Lord be with them . Trust not thou in their life , neither respect their multitude : for one that is just is better than a thousand ; and better it is to die without children , than to have them that are ungodly . For by one that hath understanding shall the city be replenished : but the kindred of the wicked shall speedily become desolate . Many such things have I seen with mine eyes , and mine ear hath heard greater things than these . In the congregation of the ungodly shall a fire be kindled ; and in a rebellious nation wrath is set on fire . He was not pacified toward the old giants , who fell away in the strength of their foolishness . Neither spared he the place where Lot sojourned , but abhorred them for their pride . He pitied not the people of perdition , who were taken away in their sins : Nor the six hundred thousand footmen , who were gathered together in the hardness of their hearts . And if there be one stiffnecked among the people , it is marvel if he escape unpunished : for mercy and wrath are with him ; he is mighty to forgive , and to pour out displeasure . As his mercy is great , so is his correction also : he judgeth a man according to his works The sinner shall not escape with his spoils : and the patience of the godly shall not be frustrate . Make way for every work of mercy : for every man shall find according to his works . The Lord hardened Pharaoh , that he should not know him , that his powerful works might be known to the world . His mercy is manifest to every creature ; and he hath separated his light from the darkness with an adamant . Say not thou , I will hide myself from the Lord : shall any remember me from above ? I shall not be remembered among so many people : for what is my soul among such an infinite number of creatures ? Behold , the heaven , and the heaven of heavens , the deep , and the earth , and all that therein is , shall be moved when he shall visit . The mountains also and foundations of the earth be shaken with trembling , when the Lord looketh upon them . No heart can think upon these things worthily : and who is able to conceive his ways ? It is a tempest which no man can see : for the most part of his works are hid . Who can declare the works of his justice ? or who can endure them ? for his covenant is afar off , and the trial of all things is in the end . He that wanteth understanding will think upon vain things : and a foolish man erring imagineth follies . by son , hearken unto me , and learn knowledge , and mark my words with thy heart . I will shew forth doctrine in weight , and declare his knowledge exactly . The works of the Lord are done in judgment from the beginning : and from the time he made them he disposed the parts thereof . He garnished his works for ever , and in his hand are the chief of them unto all generations : they neither labour , nor are weary , nor cease from their works . None of them hindereth another , and they shall never disobey his word . After this the Lord looked upon the earth , and filled it with his blessings . With all manner of living things hath he covered the face thereof ; and they shall return into it again . The Lord created man of the earth , and turned him into it again . He gave them few days , and a short time , and power also over the things therein . He endued them with strength by themselves , and made them according to his image , And put the fear of man upon all flesh , and gave him dominion over beasts and fowls . They received the use of the five operations of the Lord , and in the sixth place he imparted them understanding , and in the seventh speech , an interpreter of the cogitations thereof . ] Counsel , and a tongue , and eyes , ears , and a heart , gave he them to understand . Withal he filled them with the knowledge of understanding , and shewed them good and evil . He set his eye upon their hearts , that he might shew them the greatness of his works . He gave them to glory in his marvellous acts for ever , that they might declare his works with understanding . And the elect shall praise his holy name . Beside this he gave them knowledge , and the law of life for an heritage . He made an everlasting covenant with them , and shewed them his judgments . Their eyes saw the majesty of his glory , and their ears heard his glorious voice . And he said unto them , Beware of all unrighteousness ; and he gave every man commandment concerning his neighbour . Their ways are ever before him , and shall not be hid from his eyes . Every man from his youth is given to evil ; neither could they make to themselves fleshy hearts for stony . For in the division of the nations of the whole earth he set a ruler over every people ; but Israel is the Lord's portion : Whom , being his firstborn , he nourisheth with discipline , and giving him the light of his love doth not forsake him . Therefore all their works are as the sun before him , and his eyes are continually upon their ways . None of their unrighteous deeds are hid from him , but all their sins are before the Lord But the Lord being gracious and knowing his workmanship , neither left nor forsook them , but spared them . The alms of a man is as a signet with him , and he will keep the good deeds of man as the apple of the eye , and give repentance to his sons and daughters . Afterwards he will rise up and reward them , and render their recompence upon their heads . But unto them that repent , he granted them return , and comforted those that failed in patience . Return unto the Lord , and forsake thy sins , make thy prayer before his face , and offend less . Turn again to the most High , and turn away from iniquity : for he will lead thee out of darkness into the light of health , and hate thou abomination vehemently . Who shall praise the most High in the grave , instead of them which live and give thanks ? Thanksgiving perisheth from the dead , as from one that is not : the living and sound in heart shall praise the Lord . How great is the lovingkindness of the Lord our God , and his compassion unto such as turn unto him in holiness ! For all things cannot be in men , because the son of man is not immortal . What is brighter than the sun ? yet the light thereof faileth ; and flesh and blood will imagine evil . He vieweth the power of the height of heaven ; and all men are but earth and ashes . He that liveth for ever Hath created all things in general . The Lord only is righteous , and there is none other but he , Who governeth the world with the palm of his hand , and all things obey his will : for he is the King of all , by his power dividing holy things among them from profane . To whom hath he given power to declare his works ? and who shall find out his noble acts ? Who shall number the strength of his majesty ? and who shall also tell out his mercies ? As for the wondrous works of the Lord , there may nothing be taken from them , neither may any thing be put unto them , neither can the ground of them be found out . When a man hath done , then he beginneth ; and when he leaveth off , then he shall be doubtful . What is man , and whereto serveth he ? what is his good , and what is his evil ? The number of a man's days at the most are an hundred years . As a drop of water unto the sea , and a gravelstone in comparison of the sand ; so are a thousand years to the days of eternity . Therefore is God patient with them , and poureth forth his mercy upon them . He saw and perceived their end to be evil ; therefore he multiplied his compassion . The mercy of man is toward his neighbour ; but the mercy of the Lord is upon all flesh : he reproveth , and nurtureth , and teacheth and bringeth again , as a shepherd his flock . He hath mercy on them that receive discipline , and that diligently seek after his judgments . My son , blemish not thy good deeds , neither use uncomfortable words when thou givest any thing . Shall not the dew asswage the heat ? so is a word better than a gift . Lo , is not a word better than a gift ? but both are with a gracious man . A fool will upbraid churlishly , and a gift of the envious consumeth the eyes . Learn before thou speak , and use physick or ever thou be sick . Before judgment examine thyself , and in the day of visitation thou shalt find mercy . Humble thyself before thou be sick , and in the time of sins shew repentance . Let nothing hinder thee to pay thy vow in due time , and defer not until death to be justified . Before thou prayest , prepare thyself ; and be not as one that tempteth the Lord . Think upon the wrath that shall be at the end , and the time of vengeance , when he shall turn away his face . When thou hast enough , remember the time of hunger : and when thou art rich , think upon poverty and need . From the morning until the evening the time is changed , and all things are soon done before the Lord . A wise man will fear in every thing , and in the day of sinning he will beware of offence : but a fool will not observe time . Every man of understanding knoweth wisdom , and will give praise unto him that found her . They that were of understanding in sayings became also wise themselves , and poured forth exquisite parables . Go not after thy lusts , but refrain thyself from thine appetites . If thou givest thy soul the desires that please her , she will make thee a laughingstock to thine enemies that malign thee . Take not pleasure in much good cheer , neither be tied to the expence thereof . Be not made a beggar by banqueting upon borrowing , when thou hast nothing in thy purse : for thou shalt lie in wait for thine own life , and be talked on . A labouring man that A is given to drunkenness shall not be rich : and he that contemneth small things shall fall by little and little . Wine and women will make men of understanding to fall away : and he that cleaveth to harlots will become impudent . Moths and worms shall have him to heritage , and a bold man shall be taken away . He that is hasty to give credit is lightminded ; and he that sinneth shall offend against his own soul . Whoso taketh pleasure in wickedness shall be condemned : but he that resisteth pleasures crowneth his life . He that can rule his tongue shall live without strife ; and he that hateth babbling shall have less evil . Rehearse not unto another that which is told unto thee , and thou shalt fare never the worse . Whether it be to friend or foe , talk not of other men's lives ; and if thou canst without offence , reveal them not . For he heard and observed thee , and when time cometh he will hate thee . If thou hast heard a word , let it die with thee ; and be bold , it will not burst thee . A fool travaileth with a word , as a woman in labour of a child . As an arrow that sticketh in a man's thigh , so is a word within a fool's belly . Admonish a friend , it may be he hath not done it : and if he have done it , that he do it no more . Admonish thy friend , it may be he hath not said it : and if he have , that he speak it not again . Admonish a friend : for many times it is a slander , and believe not every tale . There is one that slippeth in his speech , but not from his heart ; and who is he that hath not offended with his tongue ? Admonish thy neighbour before thou threaten him ; and not being angry , give place to the law of the most High . The fear of the Lord is the first step to be accepted [ of him , ] and wisdom obtaineth his love . The knowledge of the commandments of the Lord is the doctrine of life : and they that do things that please him shall receive the fruit of the tree of immortality . The fear of the Lord is all wisdom ; and in all wisdom is the performance of the law , and the knowledge of his omnipotency . If a servant say to his master , I will not do as it pleaseth thee ; though afterward he do it , he angereth him that nourisheth him . The knowledge of wickedness is not wisdom , neither at any time the counsel of sinners prudence . There is a wickedness , and the same an abomination ; and there is a fool wanting in wisdom . He that hath small understanding , and feareth God , is better than one that hath much wisdom , and transgresseth the law of the most High . There is an exquisite subtilty , and the same is unjust ; and there is one that turneth aside to make judgment appear ; and there is a wise man that justifieth in judgment . There is a wicked man that hangeth down his head sadly ; but inwardly he is full of deceit , Casting down his countenance , and making as if he heard not : where he is not known , he will do thee a mischief before thou be aware . And if for want of power he be hindered from sinning , yet when he findeth opportunity he will do evil . A man may be known by his look , and one that hath understanding by his countenance , when thou meetest him . A man's attire , and excessive laughter , and gait , shew what he is . There is a reproof that is not comely : again , some man holdeth his tongue , and he is wise . It is much better to reprove , than to be angry secretly : and he that confesseth his fault shall be preserved from hurt . How good is it , when thou art reproved , to shew repentance ! for so shalt thou escape wilful sin . As is the lust of an eunuch to deflower a virgin ; so is he that executeth judgment with violence . There is one that keepeth silence , and is found wise : and another by much babbling becometh hateful . Some man holdeth his tongue , because he hath not to answer : and some keepeth silence , knowing his time . A wise man will hold his tongue till he see opportunity : but a babbler and a fool will regard no time . He that useth many words shall be abhorred ; and he that taketh to himself authority therein shall be hated . There is a sinner that hath good success in evil things ; and there is a gain that turneth to loss . There is a gift that shall not profit thee ; and there is a gift whose recompence is double . There is an abasement because of glory ; and there is that lifteth up his head from a low estate . There is that buyeth much for a little , and repayeth it sevenfold . A wise man by his words maketh him beloved : but the graces of fools shall be poured out . The gift of a fool shall do thee no good when thou hast it ; neither yet of the envious for his necessity : for he looketh to receive many things for one . He giveth little , and upbraideth much ; he openeth his mouth like a crier ; to day he lendeth , and to morrow will he ask it again : such an one is to be hated of God and man . The fool saith , I have no friends , I have no thank for all my good deeds , and they that eat my bread speak evil of me . How oft , and of how many shall he be laughed to scorn ! for he knoweth not aright what it is to have ; and it is all one unto him as if he had it not . To slip upon a pavement is better than to slip with the tongue : so the fall of the wicked shall come speedily . An unseasonable tale will always be in the mouth of the unwise . A wise sentence shall be rejected when it cometh out of a fool's mouth ; for he will not speak it in due season . There is that is hindered from sinning through want : and when he taketh rest , he shall not be troubled . There is that destroyeth his own soul through bashfulness , and by accepting of persons overthroweth himself . There is that for bashfulness promiseth to his friend , and maketh him his enemy for nothing . A lie is a foul blot in a man , yet it is continually in the mouth of the untaught . A thief is better than a man that is accustomed to lie : but they both shall have destruction to heritage . The disposition of a liar is dishonourable , and his shame is ever with him . A wise man shall promote himself to honour with his words : and he that hath understanding will please great men . He that tilleth his land shall increase his heap : and he that pleaseth great men shall get pardon for iniquity . Presents and gifts blind the eyes of the wise , and stop up his mouth that he cannot reprove . Wisdom that is hid , and treasure that is hoarded up , what profit is in them both ? Better is he that hideth his folly than a man that hideth his wisdom . Necessary patience in seeking ing the Lord is better than he that leadeth his life without a guide . My son , hast thou sinned ? do so no more , but ask pardon for thy former sins . Flee from sin as from the face of a serpent : for if thou comest too near it , it will bite thee : the teeth thereof are as the teeth of a lion , slaying the souls of men . All iniquity is as a two edged sword , the wounds whereof cannot be healed . To terrify and do wrong will waste riches : thus the house of proud men shall be made desolate . A prayer out of a poor man's mouth reacheth to the ears of God , and his judgment cometh speedily . He that hateth to be reproved is in the way of sinners : but he that feareth the Lord will repent from his heart . An eloquent man is known far and near ; but a man of understanding knoweth when he slippeth . He that buildeth his house with other men's money is like one that gathereth himself stones for the tomb of his burial . The congregation of the wicked is like tow wrapped together : and the end of them is a flame of fire to destroy them . The way of sinners is made plain with stones , but at the end thereof is the pit of hell . He that keepeth the law of the Lord getteth the understanding thereof : and the perfection of the fear of the Lord is wisdom . He that is not wise will not be taught : but there is a wisdom which multiplieth bitterness . The knowledge of a wise man shall abound like a flood : and his counsel is like a pure fountain of life . The inner parts of a fool are like a broken vessel , and he will hold no knowledge as long as he liveth . If a skilful man hear a wise word , he will commend it , and add unto it : but as soon as one of no understanding heareth it , it displeaseth him , and he casteth it behind his back . The talking of a fool is like a burden in the way : but grace shall be found in the lips of the wise . They enquire at the mouth of the wise man in the congregation , and they shall ponder his words in their heart . As is a house that is destroyed , so is wisdom to a fool : and the knowledge of the unwise is as talk without sense . Doctrine unto fools is as fetters on the feet , and like manacles on the right hand . A fool lifteth up his voice with laughter ; but a wise man doth scarce smile a little . Learning is unto a wise man as an ornament of gold , and like a bracelet upon his right arm . A foolish man's foot is soon in his [ neighbour's ] house : but a man of experience is ashamed of him . A fool will peep in at the door into the house : but he that is well nurtured will stand without . It is the rudeness of a man to hearken at the door : but a wise man will be grieved with the disgrace . The lips of talkers will be telling such things as pertain not unto them : but the words of such as have understanding are weighed in the balance . The heart of fools is in their mouth : but the mouth of the wise is in their heart . When the ungodly curseth Satan , he curseth his own soul . A whisperer defileth his own soul , and is hated wheresoever he dwelleth . A slothful man is compared to a filthy stone , and every one will hiss him out to his disgrace . A slothful man is compared to the filth of a dunghill : every man that takes it up will shake his hand . An evilnurtured man is the dishonour of his father that begat him : and a [ foolish ] daughter is born to his loss . A wise daughter shall bring an inheritance to her husband : but she that liveth dishonestly is her father's heaviness . She that is bold dishonoureth both her father and her husband , but they both shall despise her . A tale out of season [ is as ] musick in mourning : but stripes and correction of wisdom are never out of time . Whoso teacheth a fool is as one that glueth a potsherd together , and as he that waketh one from a sound sleep . He that telleth a tale to a fool speaketh to one in a slumber : when he hath told his tale , he will say , What is the matter ? If children live honestly , and have wherewithal , they shall cover the baseness of their parents . But children , being haughty , through disdain and want of nurture do stain the nobility of their kindred . Weep for the dead , for he hath lost the light : and weep for the fool , for he wanteth understanding : make little weeping for the dead , for he is at rest : but the life of the fool is worse than death . Seven days do men mourn for him that is dead ; but for a fool and an ungodly man all the days of his life . Talk not much with a fool , and go not to him that hath no understanding : beware of him , lest thou have trouble , and thou shalt never be defiled with his fooleries : depart from him , and thou shalt find rest , and never be disquieted with madness . What is heavier than lead ? and what is the name thereof , but a fool ? Sand , and salt , and a mass of iron , is easier to bear , than a man without understanding . As timber girt and bound together in a building cannot be loosed with shaking : so the heart that is stablished by advised counsel shall fear at no time . A heart settled upon a thought of understanding is as a fair plaistering on the wall of a gallery . Pales set on an high place will never stand against the wind : so a fearful heart in the imagination of a fool cannot stand against any fear . He that pricketh the eye will make tears to fall : and he that pricketh the heart maketh it to shew her knowledge . Whoso casteth a stone at the birds frayeth them away : and he that upbraideth his friend breaketh friendship . Though thou drewest a sword at thy friend , yet despair not : for there may be a returning [ to favour . ] If thou hast opened thy mouth against thy friend , fear not ; for there may be a reconciliation : except for upbraiding , or pride , or disclosing of secrets , or a treacherous wound : for for these things every friend will depart . Be faithful to thy neighbour in his poverty , that thou mayest rejoice in his prosperity : abide stedfast unto him in the time of his trouble , that thou mayest be heir with him in his heritage : for a mean estate is not always to be contemned : nor the rich that is foolish to be had in admiration . As the vapour and smoke of a furnace goeth before the fire ; so reviling before blood . I will not be ashamed to defend a friend ; neither will I hide myself from him . And if any evil happen unto me by him , every one that heareth it will beware of him . Who shall set a watch before my mouth , and a seal of wisdom upon my lips , that I fall not suddenly by them , and that my tongue destroy me not ? O Lord , Father and Governor of all my whole life , leave me not to their counsels , and let me not fall by them . Who will set scourges over my thoughts , and the discipline of wisdom over mine heart ? that they spare me not for mine ignorances , and it pass not by my sins : Lest mine ignorances increase , and my sins abound to my destruction , and I fall before mine adversaries , and mine enemy rejoice over me , whose hope is far from thy mercy . O Lord , Father and God of my life , give me not a proud look , but turn away from thy servants always a haughty mind . Turn away from me vain hopes and concupiscence , and thou shalt hold him up that is desirous always to serve thee . Let not the greediness of the belly nor lust of the flesh take hold of me ; and give not over me thy servant into an impudent mind . Hear , O ye children , the discipline of the mouth : he that keepeth it shall never be taken in his lips . The sinner shall be left in his foolishness : both the evil speaker and the proud shall fall thereby . Accustom not thy mouth to swearing ; neither use thyself to the naming of the Holy One . For as a servant that is continually beaten shall not be without a blue mark : so he that sweareth and nameth God continually shall not be faultless . A man that useth much swearing shall be filled with iniquity , and the plague shall never depart from his house : if he shall offend , his sin shall be upon him : and if he acknowledge not his sin , he maketh a double offence : and if he swear in vain , he shall not be innocent , but his house shall be full of calamities . There is a word that is clothed about with death : God grant that it be not found in the heritage of Jacob ; for all such things shall be far from the godly , and they shall not wallow in their sins . Use not thy mouth to intemperate swearing , for therein is the word of sin . Remember thy father and thy mother , when thou sittest among great men . Be not forgetful before them , and so thou by thy custom become a fool , and wish that thou hadst not been born , and curse they day of thy nativity . The man that is accustomed to opprobrious words will never be reformed all the days of his life . Two sorts of men multiply sin , and the third will bring wrath : a hot mind is as a burning fire , it will never be quenched till it be consumed : a fornicator in the body of his flesh will never cease till he hath kindled a fire . All bread is sweet to a whoremonger , he will not leave off till he die . A man that breaketh wedlock , saying thus in his heart , Who seeth me ? I am compassed about with darkness , the walls cover me , and no body seeth me ; what need I to fear ? the most High will not remember my sins : Such a man only feareth the eyes of men , and knoweth not that the eyes of the Lord are ten thousand times brighter than the sun , beholding all the ways of men , and considering the most secret parts . He knew all things ere ever they were created ; so also after they were perfected he looked upon them all . This man shall be punished in the streets of the city , and where he suspecteth not he shall be taken . Thus shall it go also with the wife that leaveth her husband , and bringeth in an heir by another . For first , she hath disobeyed the law of the most High ; and secondly , she hath trespassed against her own husband ; and thirdly , she hath played the whore in adultery , and brought children by another man . She shall be brought out into the congregation , and inquisition shall be made of her children . Her children shall not take root , and her branches shall bring forth no fruit . She shall leave her memory to be cursed , and her reproach shall not be blotted out . And they that remain shall know that there is nothing better than the fear of the Lord , and that there is nothing sweeter than to take heed unto the commandments of the Lord . It is great glory to follow the Lord , and to be received of him is long life . Wisdom shall praise herself , and shall glory in the midst of her people . In the congregation of the most High shall she open her mouth , and triumph before his power . I came out of the mouth of the most High , and covered the earth as a cloud . I dwelt in high places , and my throne is in a cloudy pillar . I alone compassed the circuit of heaven , and walked in the bottom of the deep . In the waves of the sea and in all the earth , and in every people and nation , I got a possession . With all these I sought rest : and in whose inheritance shall I abide ? So the Creator of all things gave me a commandment , and he that made me caused my tabernacle to rest , and said , Let thy dwelling be in Jacob , and thine inheritance in Israel . He created me from the beginning before the world , and I shall never fail . In the holy tabernacle I served before him ; and so was I established in Sion . Likewise in the beloved city he gave me rest , and in Jerusalem was my power . And I took root in an honourable people , even in the portion of the Lord's inheritance . I was exalted like a cedar in Libanus , and as a cypress tree upon the mountains of Hermon . I was exalted like a palm tree in En-gaddi , and as a rose plant in Jericho , as a fair olive tree in a pleasant field , and grew up as a plane tree by the water . I gave a sweet smell like cinnamon and aspalathus , and I yielded a pleasant odour like the best myrrh , as galbanum , and onyx , and sweet storax , and as the fume of frankincense in the tabernacle . As the turpentine tree I stretched out my branches , and my branches are the branches of honour and grace . As the vine brought I forth pleasant savour , and my flowers are the fruit of honour and riches . I am the mother of fair love , and fear , and knowledge , and holy hope : I therefore , being eternal , am given to all my children which are named of him . Come unto me , all ye that be desirous of me , and fill yourselves with my fruits . For my memorial is sweeter than honey , and mine inheritance than the honeycomb . They that eat me shall yet be hungry , and they that drink me shall yet be thirsty . He that obeyeth me shall never be confounded , and they that work by me shall not do amiss . All these things are the book of the covenant of the most high God , even the law which Moses commanded for an heritage unto the congregations of Jacob . Faint not to be strong in the Lord ; that he may confirm you , cleave unto him : for the Lord Almighty is God alone , and beside him there is no other Saviour . He filleth all things with his wisdom , as Phison and as Tigris in the time of the new fruits . He maketh the understanding to abound like Euphrates , and as Jordan in the time of the harvest . He maketh the doctrine of knowledge appear as the light , and as Geon in the time of vintage . The first man knew her not perfectly : no more shall the last find her out . For her thoughts are more than the sea , and her counsels profounder than the great deep . I also came out as a brook from a river , and as a conduit into a garden . I said , I will water my best garden , and will water abundantly my garden bed : and , lo , my brook became a river , and my river became a sea . I will yet make doctrine to shine as the morning , and will send forth her light afar off . I will yet pour out doctrine as prophecy , and leave it to all ages for ever . Behold that I have not laboured for myself only , but for all them that seek wisdom . In three things I was beautified , and stood up beautiful both before God and men : the unity of brethren , the love of neighbours , a man and a wife that agree together . Three sorts of men my soul hateth , and I am greatly offended at their life : a poor man that is proud , a rich man that is a liar , and an old adulterer that doateth . If thou hast gathered nothing in thy youth , how canst thou find any thing in thine age ? O how comely a thing is judgment for gray hairs , and for ancient men to know counsel ! O how comely is the wisdom of old men , and understanding and counsel to men of honour . Much experience is the crown of old men , and the fear of God is their glory . There be nine things which I have judged in mine heart to be happy , and the tenth I will utter with my tongue : A man that hath joy of his children ; and he that liveth to see the fall of his enemy : Well is him that dwelleth with a wife of understanding , and that hath not slipped with his tongue , and that hath not served a man more unworthy than himself : Well is him that hath found prudence , and he that speaketh in the ears of them that will hear : O how great is he that findeth wisdom ! yet is there none above him that feareth the Lord . But the love of the Lord passeth all things for illumination : he that holdeth it , whereto shall he be likened ? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of his love : and faith is the beginning of cleaving unto him . [ Give me ] any plague , but the plague of the heart : and any wickedness , but the wickedness of a woman : And any affliction , but the affliction from them that hate me : and any revenge , but the revenge of enemies . There is no head above the head of a serpent ; and there is no wrath above the wrath of an enemy . I had rather dwell with a lion and a dragon , than to keep house with a wicked woman . The wickedness of a woman changeth her face , and darkeneth her countenance like sackcloth . Her husband shall sit among his neighbours ; and when he heareth it shall sigh bitterly . All wickedness is but little to the wickedness of a woman : let the portion of a sinner fall upon her . As the climbing up a sandy way is to the feet of the aged , so is a wife full of words to a quiet man . Stumble not at the beauty of a woman , and desire her not for pleasure . A woman , if she maintain her husband , is full of anger , impudence , and much reproach . A wicked woman abateth the courage , maketh an heavy countenance and a wounded heart : a woman that will not comfort her husband in distress maketh weak hands and feeble knees . Of the woman came the beginning of sin , and through her we all die . Give the water no passage ; neither a wicked woman liberty to gad abroad . If she go not as thou wouldest have her , cut her off from thy flesh , and give her a bill of divorce , and let her go . Blessed is the man that hath a virtuous wife , for the number of his days shall be double . A virtuous woman rejoiceth her husband , and he shall fulfil the years of his life in peace . A good wife is a good portion , which shall be given in the portion of them that fear the Lord . Whether a man be rich or poor , if he have a good heart toward the Lord , he shall at all times rejoice with a cheerful countenance . There be three things that mine heart feareth ; and for the fourth I was sore afraid : the slander of a city , the gathering together of an unruly multitude , and a false accusation : all these are worse than death . But a grief of heart and sorrow is a woman that is jealous over another woman , and a scourge of the tongue which communicateth with all . An evil wife is a yoke shaken to and fro : he that hath hold of her is as though he held a scorpion . A drunken woman and a gadder abroad causeth great anger , and she will not cover her own shame . The whoredom of a woman may be known in her haughty looks and eyelids . If thy daughter be shameless , keep her in straitly , lest she abuse herself through overmuch liberty . Watch over an impudent eye : and marvel not if she trespass against thee . She will open her mouth , as a thirsty traveller when he hath found a fountain , and drink of every water near her : by every hedge will she sit down , and open her quiver against every arrow . The grace of a wife delighteth her husband , and her discretion will fatten his bones . A silent and loving woman is a gift of the Lord ; and there is nothing so much worth as a mind well instructed . A shamefaced and faithful woman is a double grace , and her continent mind cannot be valued . As the sun when it ariseth in the high heaven ; so is the beauty of a good wife in the ordering of her house . As the clear light is upon the holy candlestick ; so is the beauty of the face in ripe age . As the golden pillars are upon the sockets of silver ; so are the fair feet with a constant heart . My son , keep the flower of thine age sound ; and give not thy strength to strangers . When thou hast gotten a fruitful possession through all the field , sow it with thine own seed , trusting in the goodness of thy stock . So thy race which thou leavest shall be magnified , having the confidence of their good descent . An harlot shall be accounted as spittle ; but a married woman is a tower against death to her husband . A wicked woman is given as a portion to a wicked man : but a godly woman is given to him that feareth the Lord . A dishonest woman contemneth shame : but an honest woman will reverence her husband . A shameless woman shall be counted as a dog ; but she that is shamefaced will fear the Lord . A woman that honoureth her husband shall be judged wise of all ; but she that dishonoureth him in her pride shall be counted ungodly of all . A loud crying woman and a scold shall be sought out to drive away the enemies . There be two things that grieve my heart ; and the third maketh me angry : a man of war that suffereth poverty ; and men of understanding that are not set by ; and one that returneth from righteousness to sin ; the Lord prepareth such an one for the sword . A merchant shall hardly keep himself from doing wrong ; and an huckster shall not be freed from sin . Many have sinned for a small matter ; and he that seeketh for abundance will turn his eyes away . As a nail sticketh fast between the joinings of the stones ; so doth sin stick close between buying and selling . Unless a man hold himself diligently in the fear of the Lord , his house shall soon be overthrown . As when one sifteth with a sieve , the refuse remaineth ; so the filth of man in his talk . The furnace proveth the potter's vessels ; so the trial of man is in his reasoning . The fruit declareth if the tree have been dressed ; so is the utterance of a conceit in the heart of man . Praise no man before thou hearest him speak ; for this is the trial of men . If thou followest righteousness , thou shalt obtain her , and put her on , as a glorious long robe . The birds will resort unto their like ; so will truth return unto them that practise in her . As the lion lieth in wait for the prey ; so sin for them that work iniquity . The discourse of a godly man is always with wisdom ; but a fool changeth as the moon . If thou be among the indiscreet , observe the time ; but be continually among men of understanding . The discourse of fools is irksome , and their sport is the wantonness of sin . The talk of him that sweareth much maketh the hair stand upright ; and their brawls make one stop his ears . The strife of the proud is bloodshedding , and their revilings are grievous to the ear . Whoso discovereth secrets loseth his credit ; and shall never find friend to his mind . Love thy friend , and be faithful unto him : but if thou betrayest his secrets , follow no more after him . For as a man hath destroyed his enemy ; so hast thou lost the love of thy neighbor . As one that letteth a bird go out of his hand , so hast thou let thy neighbour go , and shalt not get him again Follow after him no more , for he is too far off ; he is as a roe escaped out of the snare . As for a wound , it may be bound up ; and after reviling there may be reconcilement : but he that betrayeth secrets is without hope . He that winketh with the eyes worketh evil : and he that knoweth him will depart from him . When thou art present , he will speak sweetly , and will admire thy words : but at the last he will writhe his mouth , and slander thy sayings . I have hated many things , but nothing like him ; for the Lord will hate him . Whoso casteth a stone on high casteth it on his own head ; and a deceitful stroke shall make wounds . Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein : and he that setteth a trap shall be taken therein . He that worketh mischief , it shall fall upon him , and he shall not know whence it cometh . Mockery and reproach are from the proud ; but vengeance , as a lion , shall lie in wait for them . They that rejoice at the fall of the righteous shall be taken in the snare ; and anguish shall consume them before they die . Malice and wrath , even these are abominations ; and the sinful man shall have them both . He that revengeth shall find vengeance from the Lord , and he will surely keep his sins [ in remembrance . ] Forgive thy neighbour the hurt that he hath done unto thee , so shall thy sins also be forgiven when thou prayest . One man beareth hatred against another , and doth he seek pardon from the Lord ? He sheweth no mercy to a man , which is like himself : and doth he ask forgiveness of his own sins ? If he that is but flesh nourish hatred , who will intreat for pardon of his sins ? Remember thy end , and let enmity cease ; [ remember ] corruption and death , and abide in the commandments . Remember the commandments , and bear no malice to thy neighbour : [ remember ] the covenant of the Highest , and wink at ignorance . Abstain from strife , and thou shalt diminish thy sins : for a furious man will kindle strife , A sinful man disquieteth friends , and maketh debate among them that be at peace . As the matter of the fire is , so it burneth : and as a man's strength is , so is his wrath ; and according to his riches his anger riseth ; and the stronger they are which contend , the more they will be inflamed . An hasty contention kindleth a fire : and an hasty fighting sheddeth blood . If thou blow the spark , it shall burn : if thou spit upon it , it shall be quenched : and both these come out of thy mouth . Curse the whisperer and doubletongued : for such have destroyed many that were at peace . A backbiting tongue hath disquieted many , and driven them from nation to nation : strong cities hath it pulled down , and overthrown the houses of great men . A backbiting tongue hath cast out virtuous women , and deprived them of their labours . Whoso hearkeneth unto it shall never find rest , and never dwell quietly . The stroke of the whip maketh marks in the flesh : but the stroke of the tongue breaketh the bones . Many have fallen by the edge of the sword : but not so many as have fallen by the tongue . Well is he that is defended through the venom thereof ; who hath not drawn the yoke thereof , nor hath been bound in her bands . For the yoke thereof is a yoke of iron , and the bands thereof are bands of brass . The death thereof is an evil death , the grave were better than it . It shall not have rule over them that fear God , neither shall they be burned with the flame thereof . Such as forsake the Lord shall fall into it ; and it shall burn in them , and not be quenched ; it shall be sent upon them as a lion , and devour them as a leopard . Look that thou hedge thy possession about with thorns , and bind up thy silver and gold , And weigh thy words in a balance , and make a door and bar for thy mouth . Beware thou slide not by it , lest thou fall before him that lieth in wait . He that is merciful will lend unto his neighbour ; and he that strengtheneth his hand keepeth the commandments . Lend to thy neighbour in time of his need , and pay thou thy neighbour again in due season . Keep thy word , and deal faithfully with him , and thou shalt always find the thing that is necessary for thee . Many , when a thing was lent them , reckoned it to be found , and put them to trouble that helped them . Till he hath received , he will kiss a man's hand ; and for his neighbour's money he will speak submissly : but when he should repay , he will prolong the time , and return words of grief , and complain of the time . If he prevail , he shall hardly receive the half , and he will count as if he had found it : if not , he hath deprived him of his money , and he hath gotten him an enemy without cause : he payeth him with cursings and railings ; and for honour he will pay him disgrace . Many therefore have refused to lend for other men's ill dealing , fearing to be defrauded . Yet have thou patience with a man in poor estate , and delay not to shew him mercy . Help the poor for the commandment's sake , and turn him not away because of his poverty . Lose thy money for thy brother and thy friend , and let it not rust under a stone to be lost . Lay up thy treasure according to the commandments of the most High , and it shall bring thee more profit than gold . Shut up alms in thy storehouses : and it shall deliver thee from all affliction . It shall fight for thee against thine enemies better than a mighty shield and strong spear . An honest man is surety for his neighbour : but he that is impudent will forsake him . Forget not the friendship of thy surety , for he hath given his life for thee . A sinner will overthrow the good estate of his surety : And he that is of an unthankful mind will leave him [ in danger ] that delivered him . Suretiship hath undone many of good estate , and shaken them as a wave of the sea : mighty men hath it driven from their houses , so that they wandered among strange nations . A wicked man transgressing the commandments of the Lord shall fall into suretiship : and he that undertaketh and followeth other men's business for gain shall fall into suits . Help thy neighbour according to thy power , and beware that thou thyself fall not into the same . The chief thing for life is water , and bread , and clothing , and an house to cover shame . Better is the life of a poor man in a mean cottage , than delicate fare in another man's house . Be it little or much , hold thee contented , that thou hear not the reproach of thy house . For it is a miserable life to go from house to house : for where thou art a stranger , thou darest not open thy mouth . Thou shalt entertain , and feast , and have no thanks : moreover thou shalt hear bitter words : Come , thou stranger , and furnish a table , and feed me of that thou hast ready . Give place , thou stranger , to an honourable man ; my brother cometh to be lodged , and I have need of mine house . These things are grievous to a man of understanding ; the upbraiding of houseroom , and reproaching of the lender . He that loveth his son causeth him oft to feel the rod , that he may have joy of him in the end . He that chastiseth his son shall have joy in him , and shall rejoice of him among his acquaintance . He that teacheth his son grieveth the enemy : and before his friends he shall rejoice of him . Though his father die , yet he is as though he were not dead : for he hath left one behind him that is like himself . While he lived , he saw and rejoiced in him : and when he died , he was not sorrowful . He left behind him an avenger against his enemies , and one that shall requite kindness to his friends . He that maketh too much of his son shall bind up his wounds ; and his bowels will be troubled at every cry . An horse not broken becometh headstrong : and a child left to himself will be wilful . Cocker thy child , and he shall make thee afraid : play with him , and he will bring thee to heaviness . Laugh not with him , lest thou have sorrow with him , and lest thou gnash thy teeth in the end . Give him no liberty in his youth , and wink not at his follies . Bow down his neck while he is young , and beat him on the sides while he is a child , lest he wax stubborn , and be disobedient unto thee , and so bring sorrow to thine heart . Chastise thy son , and hold him to labour , lest his lewd behaviour be an offence unto thee . Better is the poor , being sound and strong of constitution , than a rich man that is afflicted in his body . Health and good estate of body are above all gold , and a strong body above infinite wealth . There is no riches above a sound body , and no joy above the joy of the heart . Death is better than a bitter life or continual sickness . Delicates poured upon a mouth shut up are as messes of meat set upon a grave . What good doeth the offering unto an idol ? for neither can it eat nor smell : so is he that is persecuted of the Lord . He seeth with his eyes and groaneth , as an eunuch that embraceth a virgin and sigheth . Give not over thy mind to heaviness , and afflict not thyself in thine own counsel . The gladness of the heart is the life of man , and the joyfulness of a man prolongeth his days . Love thine own soul , and comfort thy heart , remove sorrow far from thee : for sorrow hath killed many , and there is no profit therein . Envy and wrath shorten the life , and carefulness bringeth age before the time . A cheerful and good heart will have a care of his meat and diet . Watching for riches consumeth the flesh , and the care thereof driveth away sleep . Watching care will not let a man slumber , as a sore disease breaketh sleep , The rich hath great labour in gathering riches together ; and when he resteth , he is filled with his delicates . The poor laboureth in his poor estate ; and when he leaveth off , he is still needy . He that loveth gold shall not be justified , and he that followeth corruption shall have enough thereof . Gold hath been the ruin of many , and their destruction was present . It is a stumblingblock unto them that sacrifice unto it , and every fool shall be taken therewith . Blessed is the rich that is found without blemish , and hath not gone after gold . Who is he ? and we will call him blessed : for wonderful things hath he done among his people . Who hath been tried thereby , and found perfect ? then let him glory . Who might offend , and hath not offended ? or done evil , and hath not done it ? His goods shall be established , and the congregation shall declare his alms . If thou sit at a bountiful table , be not greedy upon it , and say not , There is much meat on it . Remember that a wicked eye is an evil thing : and what is created more wicked than an eye ? therefore it weepeth upon every occasion . Stretch not thine hand whithersoever it looketh , and thrust it not with him into the dish . Judge not thy neighbour by thyself : and be discreet in every point . Eat as it becometh a man , those things which are set before thee ; and devour note , lest thou be hated . Leave off first for manners' sake ; and be not unsatiable , lest thou offend . When thou sittest among many , reach not thine hand out first of all . A very little is sufficient for a man well nurtured , and he fetcheth not his wind short upon his bed . Sound sleep cometh of moderate eating : he riseth early , and his wits are with him : but the pain of watching , and choler , and pangs of the belly , are with an unsatiable man . And if thou hast been forced to eat , arise , go forth , vomit , and thou shalt have rest . My son , hear me , and despise me not , and at the last thou shalt find as I told thee : in all thy works be quick , so shall there no sickness come unto thee . Whoso is liberal of his meat , men shall speak well of him ; and the report of his good housekeeping will be believed . But against him that is a niggard of his meat the whole city shall murmur ; and the testimonies of his niggardness shall not be doubted of . Shew not thy valiantness in wine ; for wine hath destroyed many . The furnace proveth the edge by dipping : so doth wine the hearts of the proud by drunkeness . Wine is as good as life to a man , if it be drunk moderately : what life is then to a man that is without wine ? for it was made to make men glad . Wine measurably drunk and in season bringeth gladness of the heart , and cheerfulness of the mind : But wine drunken with excess maketh bitterness of the mind , with brawling and quarrelling . Drunkenness increaseth the rage of a fool till he offend : it diminisheth strength , and maketh wounds . Rebuke not thy neighbour at the wine , and despise him not in his mirth : give him no despiteful words , and press not upon him with urging him [ to drink . ] If thou be made the master [ of a feast , ] lift not thyself up , but be among them as one of the rest ; take diligent care for them , and so sit down . And when thou hast done all thy office , take thy place , that thou mayest be merry with them , and receive a crown for thy well ordering of the feast . Speak , thou that art the elder , for it becometh thee , but with sound judgment ; and hinder not musick . Pour not out words where there is a musician , and shew not forth wisdom out of time . A concert of musick in a banquet of wine is as a signet of carbuncle set in gold . As a signet of an emerald set in a work of gold , so is the melody of musick with pleasant wine . Speak , young man , if there be need of thee : and yet scarcely when thou art twice asked . Let thy speech be short , comprehending much in few words ; be as one that knoweth and yet holdeth his tongue . If thou be among great men , make not thyself equal with them ; and when ancient men are in place , use not many words . Before the thunder goeth lightning ; and before a shamefaced man shall go favour . Rise up betimes , and be not the last ; but get thee home without delay . There take thy pastime , and do what thou wilt : but sin not by proud speech . And for these things bless him that made thee , and hath replenished thee with his good things . Whoso feareth the Lord will receive his discipline ; and they that seek him early shall find favour . He that seeketh the law shall be filled therewith : but the hypocrite will be offended thereat . They that fear the Lord shall find judgment , and shall kindle justice as a light . A sinful man will not be reproved , but findeth an excuse according to his will . A man of counsel will be considerate ; but a strange and proud man is not daunted with fear , even when of himself he hath done without counsel . Do nothing without advice ; and when thou hast once done , repent not . Go not in a way wherein thou mayest fall , and stumble not among the stones . Be not confident in a plain way . And beware of thine own children . In every good work trust thy own soul ; for this is the keeping of the commandments . He that believeth in the Lord taketh heed to the commandment ; and he that trusteth in him shall fare never the worse . There shall no evil happen unto him that feareth the Lord ; but in temptation even again he will deliver him . A wise man hateth not the law ; but he that is an hypocrite therein is as a ship in a storm . A man of understanding trusteth in the law ; and the law is faithful unto him , as an oracle . Prepare what to say , and so thou shalt be heard : and bind up instruction , and then make answer . The heart of the foolish is like a cartwheel ; and his thoughts are like a rolling axletree . A stallion horse is as a mocking friend , he neigheth under every one that sitteth upon him . Why doth one day excel another , when as all the light of every day in the year is of the sun ? By the knowledge of the Lord they were distinguished : and he altered seasons and feasts . Some of them hath he made high days , and hallowed them , and some of them hath he made ordinary days . And all men are from the ground , and Adam was created of earth : In much knowledge the Lord hath divided them , and made their ways diverse . Some of them hath he blessed and exalted and some of them he sanctified , and set near himself : but some of them hath he cursed and brought low , and turned out of their places . As the clay is in the potter's hand , to fashion it at his pleasure : so man is in the hand of him that made him , to render to them as liketh him best . Good is set against evil , and life against death : so is the godly against the sinner , and the sinner against the godly . So look upon all the works of the most High ; and there are two and two , one against another . I awaked up last of all , as one that gathereth after the grapegatherers : by the blessing of the Lord I profited , and tred my winepress like a gatherer of grapes . Consider that I laboured not for myself only , but for all them that seek learning . Hear me , O ye great men of the people , and hearken with your ears , ye rulers of the congregation . Give not thy son and wife , thy brother and friend , power over thee while thou livest , and give not thy goods to another : lest it repent thee , and thou intreat for the same again . As long as thou livest and hast breath in thee , give not thyself over to any . For better it is that thy children should seek to thee , than that thou shouldest stand to their courtesy . In all thy works keep to thyself the preeminence ; leave not a stain in thine honour . At the time when thou shalt end thy days , and finish thy life , distribute thine inheritance . Fodder , a wand , and burdens , are for the ass ; and bread , correction , and work , for a servant . . If thou set thy servant to labour , thou shalt find rest : but if thou let him go idle , he shall seek liberty . A yoke and a collar do bow the neck : so are tortures and torments for an evil servant . Send him to labour , that he be not idle ; for idleness teacheth much evil . Set him to work , as is fit for him : if he be not obedient , put on more heavy fetters . But be not excessive toward any ; and without discretion do nothing . If thou have a servant , let him be unto thee as thyself , because thou hast bought him with a price . If thou have a servant , entreat him as a brother : for thou hast need of him , as of thine own soul : if thou entreat him evil , and he run from thee , which way wilt thou go to seek him ? The hopes of a man void of understanding are vain and false : and dreams lift up fools . Whoso regardeth dreams is like him that catcheth at a shadow , and followeth after the wind . The vision of dreams is the resemblance of one thing to another , even as the likeness of a face to a face . Of an unclean thing what can be cleansed ? and from that thing which is false what truth can come ? Divinations , and soothsayings , and dreams , are vain : and the heart fancieth , as a woman's heart in travail . If they be not sent from the most High in thy visitation , set not thy heart upon them . For dreams have deceived many , and they have failed that put their trust in them . The law shall be found perfect without lies : and wisdom is perfection to a faithful mouth . A man that hath travelled knoweth many things ; and he that hath much experience will declare wisdom . He that hath no experience knoweth little : but he that hath travelled is full of prudence . When I travelled , I saw many things ; and I understand more than I can express . I was ofttimes in danger of death : yet I was delivered because of these things . The spirit of those that fear the Lord shall live ; for their hope is in him that saveth them . Whoso feareth the Lord shall not fear nor be afraid ; for he is his hope . Blessed is the soul of him that feareth the Lord : to whom doth he look ? and who is his strength ? For the eyes of the Lord are upon them that love him , he is their mighty protection and strong stay , a defence from heat , and a cover from the sun at noon , a preservation from stumbling , and an help from falling . He raiseth up the soul , and lighteneth the eyes : he giveth health , life , and blessing . He that sacrificeth of a thing wrongfully gotten , his offering is ridiculous ; and the gifts of unjust men are not accepted . The most High is not pleased with the offerings of the wicked ; neither is he pacified for sin by the multitude of sacrifices . Whoso bringeth an offering of the goods of the poor doeth as one that killeth the son before his father's eyes . The bread of the needy is their life : he that defraudeth him thereof is a man of blood . He that taketh away his neighbour's living slayeth him ; and he that defraudeth the labourer of his hire is a bloodshedder . When one buildeth , and another pulleth down , what profit have they then but labour ? When one prayeth , and another curseth , whose voice will the Lord hear ? He that washeth himself after the touching of a dead body , if he touch it again , what availeth his washing ? So is it with a man that fasteth for his sins , and goeth again , and doeth the same : who will hear his prayer ? or what doth his humbling profit him ? He that keepeth the law bringeth offerings enough : he that taketh heed to the commandment offereth a peace offering . He that requiteth a goodturn offereth fine flour ; and he that giveth alms sacrificeth praise . To depart from wickedness is a thing pleasing to the Lord ; and to forsake unrighteousness is a propitiation . Thou shalt not appear empty before the Lord . For all these things [ are to be done ] because of the commandment . The offering of the righteous maketh the altar fat , and the sweet savour thereof is before the most High . The sacrifice of a just man is acceptable . and the memorial thereof shall never be forgotten . Give the Lord his honour with a good eye , and diminish not the firstfruits of thine hands . In all thy gifts shew a cheerful countenance , and dedicate thy tithes with gladness . Give unto the most High according as he hath enriched thee ; and as thou hast gotten , give with a cheerful eye . For the Lord recompenseth , and will give thee seven times as much . Do not think to corrupt with gifts ; for such he will not receive : and trust not to unrighteous sacrifices ; for the Lord is judge , and with him is no respect of persons . He will not accept any person against a poor man , but will hear the prayer of the oppressed . He will not despise the supplication of the fatherless ; nor the widow , when she poureth out her complaint . Do not the tears run down the widow's cheeks ? and is not her cry against him that causeth them to fall ? He that serveth the Lord shall be accepted with favour , and his prayer shall reach unto the clouds . The prayer of the humble pierceth the clouds : and till it come nigh , he will not be comforted ; and will not depart , till the most High shall behold to judge righteously , and execute judgment . For the Lord will not be slack , neither will the Mighty be patient toward them , till he have smitten in sunder the loins of the unmerciful , and repayed vengeance to the heathen ; till he have taken away the multitude of the proud , and broken the sceptre of the unrighteous ; Till he have rendered to every man according to his deeds , and to the works of men according to their devices ; till he have judged the cause of his people , and made them to rejoice in his mercy . Mercy is seasonable in the time of affliction , as clouds of rain in the time of drought . Have mercy upon us , O Lord God of all , and behold us : And send thy fear upon all the nations that seek not after thee . Lift up thy hand against the strange nations , and let them see thy power . As thou wast sanctified in us before them : so be thou magnified among them before us . And let them know thee , as we have known thee , that there is no God but only thou , O God . Shew new signs , and make other strange wonders : glorify thy hand and thy right arm , that they may set forth thy wondrous works . Raise up indignation , and pour out wrath : take away the adversary , and destroy the enemy . Sake the time short , remember the covenant , and let them declare thy wonderful works . Let him that escapeth be consumed by the rage of the fire ; and let them perish that oppress the people . Smite in sunder the heads of the rulers of the heathen , that say , There is none other but we . Gather all the tribes of Jacob together , and inherit thou them , as from the beginning . O Lord , have mercy upon the people that is called by thy name , and upon Israel , whom thou hast named thy firstborn . O be merciful unto Jerusalem , thy holy city , the place of thy rest . Fill Sion with thine unspeakable oracles , and thy people with thy glory : Give testimony unto those that thou hast possessed from the beginning , and raise up prophets that have been in thy name . Reward them that wait for thee , and let thy prophets be found faithful . O Lord , hear the prayer of thy servants , according to the blessing of Aaron over thy people , that all they which dwell upon the earth may know that thou art the Lord , the eternal God . The belly devoureth all meats , yet is one meat better than another . As the palate tasteth divers kinds of venison : so doth an heart of understanding false speeches . A froward heart causeth heaviness : but a man of experience will recompense him . A woman will receive every man , yet is one daughter better than another . The beauty of a woman cheereth the countenance , and a man loveth nothing better . If there be kindness , meekness , and comfort , in her tongue , then is not her husband like other men . He that getteth a wife beginneth a possession , a help like unto himself , and a pillar of rest . Where no hedge is , there the possession is spoiled : and he that hath no wife will wander up and down mourning . Who will trust a thief well appointed , that skippeth from city to city ? so [ who will believe ] a man that hath no house , and lodgeth wheresoever the night taketh him ? Every friend saith , I am his friend also : but there is a friend , which is only a friend in name . Is it not a grief unto death , when a companion and friend is turned to an enemy ? O wicked imagination , whence camest thou in to cover the earth with deceit ? There is a companion , which rejoiceth in the prosperity of a friend , but in the time of trouble will be against him . There is a companion , which helpeth his friend for the belly , and taketh up the buckler against the enemy . Forget not thy friend in thy mind , and be not unmindful of him in thy riches . Every counsellor extolleth counsel ; but there is some that counselleth for himself . Beware of a counsellor , and know before what need he hath ; for he will counsel for himself ; lest he cast the lot upon thee , And say unto thee , Thy way is good : and afterward he stand on the other side , to see what shall befall thee . Consult not with one that suspecteth thee : and hide thy counsel from such as envy thee . Neither consult with a woman touching her of whom she is jealous ; neither with a coward in matters of war ; nor with a merchant concerning exchange ; nor with a buyer of selling ; nor with an envious man of thankfulness ; nor with an unmerciful man touching kindness ; nor with the slothful for any work ; nor with an hireling for a year of finishing work ; nor with an idle servant of much business : hearken not unto these in any matter of counsel . But be continually with a godly man , whom thou knowest to keep the commandments of the Lord , whose , mind is according to thy mind , and will sorrow with thee , if thou shalt miscarry . And let the counsel of thine own heart stand : for there is no man more faithful unto thee than it . For a man's mind is sometime wont to tell him more than seven watchmen , that sit above in an high tower . And above all this pray to the most High , that he will direct thy way in truth . Let reason go before every enterprize , and counsel before every action . The countenance is a sign of changing of the heart . Four manner of things appear : good and evil , life and death : but the tongue ruleth over them continually . There is one that is wise and teacheth many , and yet is unprofitable to himself . There is one that sheweth wisdom in words , and is hated : he shall be destitute of all food . For grace is not given , him from the Lord , because he is deprived of all wisdom . Another is wise to himself ; and the fruits of understanding are commendable in his mouth . A wise man instructeth his people ; and the fruits of his understanding fail not . A wise man shall be filled with blessing ; and all they that see him shall count him happy . The days of the life of man may be numbered : but the days of Israel are innumerable . A wise man shall inherit glory among his people , and his name shall be perpetual . My son , prove thy soul in thy life , and see what is evil for it , and give not that unto it . For all things are not profitable for all men , neither hath every soul pleasure in every thing . Be not unsatiable in any dainty thing , nor too greedy upon meats : For excess of meats bringeth sickness , and surfeiting will turn into choler . By surfeiting have many perished ; but he that taketh heed prolongeth his life . Honour a physician with the honour due unto him for the uses which ye may have of him : for the Lord hath created him . For of the most High cometh healing , and he shall receive honour of the king . The skill of the physician shall lift up his head : and in the sight of great men he shall be in admiration . The Lord hath created medicines out of the earth ; and he that is wise will not abhor them . Was not the water made sweet with wood , that the virtue thereof might be known ? And he hath given men skill , that he might be honoured in his marvellous works . With such doth he heal [ men , ] and taketh away their pains . Of such doth the apothecary make a confection ; and of his works there is no end ; and from him is peace over all the earth , My son , in thy sickness be not negligent : but pray unto the Lord , and he will make thee whole . Leave off from sin , and order thine hands aright , and cleanse thy heart from all wickedness . Give a sweet savour , and a memorial of fine flour ; and make a fat offering , as not being . Then give place to the physician , for the Lord hath created him : let him not go from thee , for thou hast need of him . There is a time when in their hands there is good success . For they shall also pray unto the Lord , that he would prosper that , which they give for ease and remedy to prolong life . He that sinneth before his Maker , let him fall into the hand of the physician . My son , let tears fall down over the dead , and begin to lament , as if thou hadst suffered great harm thyself ; and then cover his body according to the custom , and neglect not his burial . Weep bitterly , and make great moan , and use lamentation , as he is worthy , and that a day or two , lest thou be evil spoken of : and then comfort thyself for thy heaviness . For of heaviness cometh death , and the heaviness of the heart breaketh strength . In affliction also sorrow remaineth : and the life of the poor is the curse of the heart . Take no heaviness to heart : drive it away , and member the last end . Forget it not , for there is no turning again : thou shalt not do him good , but hurt thyself . Remember my judgment : for thine also shall be so ; yesterday for me , and to day for thee . When the dead is at rest , let his remembrance rest ; and be comforted for him , when his Spirit is departed from him . The wisdom of a learned man cometh by opportunity of leisure : and he that hath little business shall become wise . How can he get wisdom that holdeth the plough , and that glorieth in the goad , that driveth oxen , and is occupied in their labours , and whose talk is of bullocks ? He giveth his mind to make furrows ; and is diligent to give the kine fodder . So every carpenter and workmaster , that laboureth night and day : and they that cut and grave seals , and are diligent to make great variety , and give themselves to counterfeit imagery , and watch to finish a work : The smith also sitting by the anvil , and considering the iron work , the vapour of the fire wasteth his flesh , and he fighteth with the heat of the furnace : the noise of the hammer and the anvil is ever in his ears , and his eyes look still upon the pattern of the thing that he maketh ; he setteth his mind to finish his work , and watcheth to polish it perfectly : So doth the potter sitting at his work , and turning the wheel about with his feet , who is alway carefully set at his work , and maketh all his work by number ; He fashioneth the clay with his arm , and boweth down his strength before his feet ; he applieth himself to lead it over ; and he is diligent to make clean the furnace : All these trust to their hands : and every one is wise in his work . Without these cannot a city be inhabited : and they shall not dwell where they will , nor go up and down : They shall not be sought for in publick counsel , nor sit high in the congregation : they shall not sit on the judges' seat , nor understand the sentence of judgment : they cannot declare justice and judgment ; and they shall not be found where parables are spoken . But they will maintain the state of the world , and [ all ] their desire is in the work of their craft . But he that giveth his mind to the law of the most High , and is occupied in the meditation thereof , will seek out the wisdom of all the ancient , and be occupied in prophecies . He will keep the sayings of the renowned men : and where subtil parables are , he will be there also . He will seek out the secrets of grave sentences , and be conversant in dark parables . He shall serve among great men , and appear before princes : he will travel through strange countries ; for he hath tried the good and the evil among men . He will give his heart to resort early to the Lord that made him , and will pray before the most High , and will open his mouth in prayer , and make supplication for his sins . When the great Lord will , he shall be filled with the spirit of understanding : he shall pour out wise sentences , and give thanks unto the Lord in his prayer . He shall direct his counsel and knowledge , and in his secrets shall he meditate . He shall shew forth that which he hath learned , and shall glory in the law of the covenant of the Lord . Many shall commend his understanding ; and so long as the world endureth , it shall not be blotted out ; his memorial shall not depart away , and his name shall live from generation to generation . Nations shall shew forth his wisdom , and the congregation shall declare his praise . If he die , he shall leave a greater name than a thousand : and if he live , he shall increase it . Yet have I more to say , which I have thought upon ; for I am filled as the moon at the full . Hearken unto me , ye holy children , and bud forth as a rose growing by the brook of the field : And give ye a sweet savour as frankincense , and flourish as a lily , send forth a smell , and sing a song of praise , bless the Lord in all his works . Magnify his name , and shew forth his praise with the songs of your lips , and with harps , and in praising him ye shall say after this manner : All the works of the Lord are exceeding good , and whatsoever he commandeth shall be accomplished in due season . And none may say , What is this ? wherefore is that ? for at time convenient they shall all be sought out : at his commandment the waters stood as an heap , and at the words of his mouth the receptacles of waters . At his commandment is done whatsoever pleaseth him ; and none can hinder , when he will save . The works of all flesh are before him , and nothing can be hid from his eyes . He seeth from everlasting to everlasting ; and there is nothing wonderful before him . A man need not to say , What is this ? wherefore is that ? for he hath made all things for their uses . His blessing covered the dry land as a river , and watered it as a flood . As he hath turned the waters into saltness : so shall the heathen inherit his wrath . As his ways are plain unto the holy ; so are they stumblingblocks unto the wicked . For the good are good things created from the beginning : so evil things for sinners . The principal things for the whole use of man's life are water , fire , iron , and salt , flour of wheat , honey , milk , and the blood of the grape , and oil , and clothing . All these things are for good to the godly : so to the sinners they are turned into evil . There be spirits that are created for vengeance , which in their fury lay on sore strokes ; in the time of destruction they pour out their force , and appease the wrath of him that made them . Fire , and hail , and famine , and death , all these were created for vengeance ; Teeth of wild beasts , and scorpions , serpents , and the sword punishing the wicked to destruction . They shall rejoice in his commandment , and they shall be ready upon earth , when need is ; and when their time is come , they shall not transgress his word . Therefore from the beginning I was resolved , and thought upon these things , and have left them in writing . All the works of the Lord are good : and he will give every needful thing in due season . So that a man cannot say , This is worse than that : for in time they shall all be well approved . And therefore praise ye the Lord with the whole heart and mouth , and bless the name of the Lord . Great travail is created for every man , and an heavy yoke is upon the sons of Adam , from the day that they go out of their mother's womb , till the day that they return to the mother of all things . Their imagination of things to come , and the day of death , [ trouble ] their thoughts , and [ cause ] fear of heart ; From him that sitteth on a throne of glory , unto him that is humbled in earth and ashes ; From him that weareth purple and a crown , unto him that is clothed with a linen frock . Wrath , and envy , trouble , and unquietness , fear of death , and anger , and strife , and in the time of rest upon his bed his night sleep , do change his knowledge . A little or nothing is his rest , and afterward he is in his sleep , as in a day of keeping watch , troubled in the vision of his heart , as if he were escaped out of a battle . When all is safe , he awaketh , and marvelleth that the fear was nothing . [ Such things happen ] unto all flesh , both man and beast , and that is sevenfold more upon sinners . Death , and bloodshed , strife , and sword , calamities , famine , tribulation , and the scourge ; These things are created for the wicked , and for their sakes came the flood . All things that are of the earth shall turn to the earth again : and that which is of the waters doth return into the sea . All bribery and injustice shall be blotted out : but true dealing shall endure for ever . The goods of the unjust shall be dried up like a river , and shall vanish with noise , like a great thunder in rain . While he openeth his hand he shall rejoice : so shall transgressors come to nought . The children of the ungodly shall not bring forth many branches : but are as unclean roots upon a hard rock . The weed growing upon every water and bank of a river shall be pulled up before all grass . Bountifulness is as a most fruitful garden , and mercifulness endureth for ever . To labour , and to be content with that a man hath , is a sweet life : but he that findeth a treasure is above them both . Children and the building of a city continue a man's name : but a blameless wife is counted above them both . Wine and musick rejoice the heart : but the love of wisdom is above them both . The pipe and the psaltery make sweet melody : but a pleasant tongue is above them both . Thine eye desireth favour and beauty : but more than both corn while it is green . A friend and companion never meet amiss : but above both is a wife with her husband . Brethren and help are against time of trouble : but alms shall deliver more than them both . Gold and silver make the foot stand sure : but counsel is esteemed above them both . Riches and strength lift up the heart : but the fear of the Lord is above them both : there is no want in the fear of the Lord , and it needeth not to seek help . The fear of the Lord is a fruitful garden , and covereth him above all glory . My son , lead not a beggar's life ; for better it is to die than to beg . The life of him that dependeth on another man's table is not to be counted for a life ; for he polluteth himself with other men's meat : but a wise man well nurtured will beware thereof . Begging is sweet in the mouth of the shameless : but in his belly there shall burn a fire . O death , how bitter is the remembrance of thee to a man that liveth at rest in his possessions , unto the man that hath nothing to vex him , and that hath prosperity in all things : yea , unto him that is yet able to receive meat ! O death , acceptable is thy sentence unto the needy , and unto him whose strength faileth , that is now in the last age , and is vexed with all things , and to him that despaireth , and hath lost patience ! Fear not the sentence of death , remember them that have been before thee , and that come after ; for this is the sentence of the Lord over all flesh . And why art thou against the pleasure of the most High ? there is no inquisition in the grave , whether thou have lived ten , or an hundred , or a thousand years . The children of sinners are abominable children , and they that are conversant in the dwelling of the ungodly . The inheritance of sinners' children shall perish , and their posterity shall have a perpetual reproach . The children will complain of an ungodly father , because they shall be reproached for his sake . Woe be unto you , ungodly men , which have forsaken the law of the most high God ! for if ye increase , it shall be to your destruction : And if ye be born , ye shall be born to a curse : and if ye die , a curse shall be your portion . All that are of the earth shall turn to earth again : so the ungodly shall go from a curse to destruction . The mourning of men is about their bodies : but an ill name of sinners shall be blotted out . Have regard to thy name ; for that shall continue with thee above a thousand great treasures of gold . A good life hath but few days : but a good name endureth for ever . My children , keep discipline in peace : for wisdom that is hid , and a treasure that is not seen , what profit is in them both ? A man that hideth his foolishness is better than a man that hideth his wisdom . Therefore be shamefaced according to my word : for it is not good to retain all shamefacedness ; neither is it altogether approved in every thing . Be ashamed of whoredom before father and mother : and of a lie before a prince and a mighty man ; Of an offence before a judge and ruler ; of iniquity before a congregation and people ; of unjust dealing before thy partner and friend ; And of theft in regard of the place where thou sojournest , and in regard of the truth of God and his covenant ; and to lean with thine elbow upon the meat ; and of scorning to give and take ; And of silence before them that salute thee ; and to look upon an harlot ; And to turn away thy face from thy kinsman ; or to take away a portion or a gift ; or to gaze upon another man's wife . Or to be overbusy with his maid , and come not near her bed ; or of upbraiding speeches before friends ; and after thou hast given , upbraid not ; Or of iterating and speaking again that which thou hast heard ; and of revealing of secrets . So shalt thou be truly shamefaced and find favour before all men . Of these things be not thou ashamed , and accept no person to sin thereby : Of the law of the most High , and his covenant ; and of judgment to justify the ungodly ; Of reckoning with thy partners and travellers ; or of the gift of the heritage of friends ; Of exactness of balance and weights ; or of getting much or little ; And of merchants' indifferent selling ; of much correction of children ; and to make the side of an evil servant to bleed . Sure keeping is good , where an evil wife is ; and shut up , where many hands are . Deliver all things in number and weight ; and put all in writing that thou givest out , or receivest in . Be not ashamed to inform the unwise and foolish , and the extreme aged that contendeth with those that are young : thus shalt thou be truly learned , and approved of all men living . The father waketh for the daughter , when no man knoweth ; and the care for her taketh away sleep : when she is young , lest she pass away the flower of her age ; and being married , lest she should be hated : In her virginity , lest she should be defiled and gotten with child in her father's house ; and having an husband , lest she should misbehave herself ; and when she is married , lest she should be barren . Keep a sure watch over a shameless daughter , lest she make thee a laughingstock to thine enemies , and a byword in the city , and a reproach among the people , and make thee ashamed before the multitude . Behold not every body's beauty , and sit not in the midst of women . For from garments cometh a moth , and from women wickedness . Better is the churlishness of a man than a courteous woman , a woman , I say , which bringeth shame and reproach . I will now remember the works of the Lord , and declare the things that I have seen : In the words of the Lord are his works . The sun that giveth light looketh upon all things , and the work thereof is full of the glory of the Lord . The Lord hath not given power to the saints to declare all his marvellous works , which the Almighty Lord firmly settled , that whatsoever is might be established for his glory . He seeketh out the deep , and the heart , and considereth their crafty devices : for the Lord knoweth all that may be known , and he beholdeth the signs of the world . He declareth the things that are past , and for to come , and revealeth the steps of hidden things . No thought escapeth him , neither any word is hidden from him . He hath garnished the excellent works of his wisdom , and he is from everlasting to everlasting : unto him may nothing be added , neither can he be diminished , and he hath no need of any counsellor . Oh how desirable are all his works ! and that a man may see even to a spark . All these things live and remain for ever for all uses , and they are all obedient . All things are double one against another : and he hath made nothing imperfect . One thing establisheth the good or another : and who shall be filled with beholding his glory ? The pride of the height , the clear firmament , the beauty of heaven , with his glorious shew ; The sun when it appeareth , declaring at his rising a marvellous instrument , the work of the most High : At noon it parcheth the country , and who can abide the burning heat thereof ? A man blowing a furnace is in works of heat , but the sun burneth the mountains three times more ; breathing out fiery vapours , and sending forth bright beams , it dimmeth the eyes . Great is the Lord that made it ; and at his commandment runneth hastily . He made the moon also to serve in her season for a declaration of times , and a sign of the world . From the moon is the sign of feasts , a light that decreaseth in her perfection . The month is called after her name , increasing wonderfully in her changing , being an instrument of the armies above , shining in the firmament of heaven ; The beauty of heaven , the glory of the stars , an ornament giving light in the highest places of the Lord . At the commandment of the Holy One they will stand in their order , and never faint in their watches . Look upon the rainbow , and praise him that made it ; very beautiful it is in the brightness thereof . It compasseth the heaven about with a glorious circle , and the hands of the most High have bended it . By his commandment he maketh the snow to fall aplace , and sendeth swiftly the lightnings of his judgment . Through this the treasures are opened : and clouds fly forth as fowls . By his great power he maketh the clouds firm , and the hailstones are broken small . At his sight the mountains are shaken , and at his will the south wind bloweth . The noise of the thunder maketh the earth to tremble : so doth the northern storm and the whirlwind : as birds flying he scattereth the snow , and the falling down thereof is as the lighting of grasshoppers : The eye marvelleth at the beauty of the whiteness thereof , and the heart is astonished at the raining of it . The hoarfrost also as salt he poureth on the earth , and being congealed , it lieth on the top of sharp stakes . When the cold north wind bloweth , and the water is congealed into ice , it abideth upon every gathering together of water , and clotheth the water as with a breastplate . It devoureth the mountains , and burneth the wilderness , and consumeth the grass as fire . A present remedy of all is a mist coming speedily , a dew coming after heat refresheth . By his counsel he appeaseth the deep , and planteth islands therein . They that sail on the sea tell of the danger thereof ; and when we hear it with our ears , we marvel thereat . For therein be strange and wondrous works , variety of all kinds of beasts and whales created . By him the end of them hath prosperous success , and by his word all things consist . We may speak much , and yet come short : wherefore in sum , he is all . How shall we be able to magnify him ? for he is great above all his works . The Lord is terrible and very great , and marvellous is his power . When ye glorify the Lord , exalt him as much as ye can ; for even yet will he far exceed : and when ye exalt him , put forth all your strength , and be not weary ; for ye can never go far enough . Who hath seen him , that he might tell us ? and who can magnify him as he is ? There are yet hid greater things than these be , for we have seen but a few of his works . For the Lord hath made all things ; and to the godly hath he given wisdom . Let us now praise famous men , and our fathers that begat us . The Lord hath wrought great glory by them through his great power from the beginning . Such as did bear rule in their kingdoms , men renowned for their power , giving counsel by their understanding , and declaring prophecies : Leaders of the people by their counsels , and by their knowledge of learning meet for the people , wise and eloquent are their instructions : Such as found out musical tunes , and recited verses in writing : Rich men furnished with ability , living peaceably in their habitations : All these were honoured in their generations , and were the glory of their times . There be of them , that have left a name behind them , that their praises might be reported . And some there be , which have no memorial ; who are perished , as though they had never been ; and are become as though they had never been born ; and their children after them . But these were merciful men , whose righteousness hath not been forgotten . With their seed shall continually remain a good inheritance , and their children are within the covenant . Their seed standeth fast , and their children for their sakes . Their seed shall remain for ever , and their glory shall not be blotted out . Their bodies are buried in peace ; but their name liveth for evermore . The people will tell of their wisdom , and the congregation will shew forth their praise . Enoch pleased the Lord , and was translated , being an example of repentance to all generations . Noah was found perfect and righteous ; in the time of wrath he was taken in exchange [ for the world ; ] therefore was he left as a remnant unto the earth , when the flood came . An everlasting covenant was made with him , that all flesh should perish no more by the flood . Abraham was a great father of many people : in glory was there none like unto him ; Who kept the law of the most High , and was in covenant with him : he established the covenant in his flesh ; and when he was proved , he was found faithful . Therefore he assured him by an oath , that he would bless the nations in his seed , and that he would multiply him as the dust of the earth , and exalt his seed as the stars , and cause them to inherit from sea to sea , and from the river unto the utmost part of the land . With Isaac did he establish likewise [ for Abraham his father's sake ] the blessing of all men , and the covenant , And made it rest upon the head of Jacob . He acknowledged him in his blessing , and gave him an heritage , and divided his portions ; among the twelve tribes did he part them . And he brought out of him a merciful man , which found favour in the sight of all flesh , even Moses , beloved of God and men , whose memorial is blessed . He made him like to the glorious saints , and magnified him , so that his enemies stood in fear of him . By his words he caused the wonders to cease , and he made him glorious in the sight of kings , and gave him a commandment for his people , and shewed him part of his glory . He sanctified him in his faithfuless and meekness , and chose him out of all men . He made him to hear his voice , and brought him into the dark cloud , and gave him commandments before his face , even the law of life and knowledge , that he might teach Jacob his covenants , and Israel his judgments . He exalted Aaron , an holy man like unto him , even his brother , of the tribe of Levi . An everlasting covenant he made with him and gave him the priesthood among the people ; he beautified him with comely ornaments , and clothed him with a robe of glory . He put upon him perfect glory ; and strengthened him with rich garments , with breeches , with a long robe , and the ephod . And he compassed him with pomegranates , and with many golden bells round about , that as he went there might be a sound , and a noise made that might be heard in the temple , for a memorial to the children of his people ; With an holy garment , with gold , and blue silk , and purple , the work of the embroidere , with a breastplate of judgment , and with Urim and Thummim ; With twisted scarlet , the work of the cunning workman , with precious stones graven like seals , and set in gold , the work of the jeweller , with a writing engraved for a memorial , after the number of the tribes of Israel . He set a crown of gold upon the mitre , wherein was engraved Holiness , an ornament of honour , a costly work , the desires of the eyes , goodly and beautiful . Before him there were none such , neither did ever any stranger put them on , but only his children and his children's children perpetually . Their sacrifices shall be wholly consumed every day twice continually . Moses consecrated him , and anointed him with holy oil : this was appointed unto him by an everlasting covenant , and to his seed , so long as the heavens should remain , that they should minister unto him , and execute the office of the priesthood , and bless the people in his name . He chose him out of all men living to offer sacrifices to the Lord , incense , and a sweet savour , for a memorial , to make reconciliation for his people . He gave unto him his commandments , and authority in the statutes of judgments , that he should teach Jacob the testimonies , and inform Israel in his laws . Strangers conspired together against him , and maligned him in the wilderness , even the men that were of Dathan's and Abiron's side , and the congregation of Core , with fury and wrath . This the Lord saw , and it displeased him , and in his wrathful indignation were they consumed : he did wonders upon them , to consume them with the fiery flame . But he made Aaron more honourable , and gave him an heritage , and divided unto him the firstfruits of the increase ; especially he prepared bread in abundance : For they eat of the sacrifices of the Lord , which he gave unto him and his seed . Howbeit in the land of the people he had no inheritance , neither had he any portion among the people : for the Lord himself is his portion and inheritance . The third in glory is Phinees the son of Eleazar , because he had zeal in the fear of the Lord , and stood up with good courage of heart : when the people were turned back , and made reconciliation for Israel . Therefore was there a covenant of peace made with him , that he should be the chief of the sanctuary and of his people , and that he and his posterity should have the dignity of the priesthood for ever : According to the covenant made with David son of Jesse , of the tribe of Juda , that the inheritance of the king should be to his posterity alone : so the inheritance of Aaron should also be unto his seed . God give you wisdom in your heart to judge his people in righteousness , that their good things be not abolished , and that their glory may endure for ever . Jesus the son a Nave was valiant in the wars , and was the successor of Moses in prophecies , who according to his name was made great for the saving of the elect of God , and taking vengeance of the enemies that rose up against them , that he might set Israel in their inheritance . How great glory gat he , when he did lift up his hands , and stretched out his sword against the cities ! Who before him so stood to it ? for the Lord himself brought his enemies unto him . Did not the sun go back by his means ? and was not one day as long as two ? He called upon the most high Lord , when the enemies pressed upon him on every side ; and the great Lord heard him . And with hailstones of mighty power he made the battle to fall violently upon the nations , and in the descent [ of Beth-horon ] he destroyed them that resisted , that the nations might know all their strength , because he fought in the sight of the Lord , and he followed the Mighty One . In the time of Moses also he did a work of mercy , he and Caleb the son of Jephunne , in that they withstood the congregation , and withheld the people from sin , and appeased the wicked murmuring . And of six hundred thousand people on foot , they two were preserved to bring them in to the heritage , even unto the land that floweth with milk and honey . The Lord gave strength also unto Caleb , which remained with him unto his old age : so that he entered upon the high places of the land , and his seed obtained it for an heritage : That all the children of Israel might see that it is good to follow the Lord . And concerning the judges , every one by name , whose heart went not a whoring , nor departed from the Lord , let their memory be blessed . Let their bones flourish out of their place , and let the name of them that were honoured be continued upon their children . Samuel , the prophet of the Lord , beloved of his Lord , established a kingdom , and anointed princes over his people . By the law of the Lord he judged the congregation , and the Lord had respect unto Jacob . By his faithfulness he was found a true prophet , and by his word he was known to be faithful in vision . He called upon the mighty Lord , when his enemies pressed upon him on every side , when he offered the sucking lamb . And the Lord thundered from heaven , and with a great noise made his voice to be heard . And he destroyed the rulers of the Tyrians , and all the princes cf the Philistines . And before his long sleep he made protestations in the sight of the Lord and his anointed , I have not taken any man's goods , so much as a shoe : and no man did accuse him . And after his death he prophesied , and shewed the king his end , and lifted up his voice from the earth in prophecy , to blot out the wickedness of the people . And after him rose up Nathan to prophesy in the time of David . As is the fat taken away from the peace offering , so was David chosen out of the children of Israel . He played with lions as with kids , and with bears as with lambs . Slew he not a giant , when he was yet but young ? and did he not take away reproach from the people , when he lifted up his hand with the stone in the sling , and beat down the boasting of Goliath ? For he called upon the most high Lord ; and he gave him strength in his right hand to slay that mighty warrior , and set up the horn of his people . So the people honoured him with ten thousands , and praised him in the blessings of the Lord , in that he gave him a crown of glory . For he destroyed the enemies on every side , and brought to nought the Philistines his adversaries , and brake their horn in sunder unto this day . In all his works he praised the Holy One most high with words of glory ; with his whole heart he sung songs , and loved him that made him . He set singers also before the altar , that by their voices they might make sweet melody , and daily sing praises in their songs . He beautified their feasts , and set in order the solemn times until the end , that they might praise his holy name , and that the temple might sound from morning . The Lord took away his sins , and exalted his horn for ever : he gave him a covenant of kings , and a throne of glory in Israel . After him rose up a wise son , and for his sake he dwelt at large . Solomon reigned in a peaceable time , and was honoured ; for God made all quiet round about him , that he might build an house in his name , and prepare his sanctuary for ever . How wise wast thou in thy youth and , as a flood , filled with understanding ! Thy soul covered the whole earth , and thou filledst it with dark parables . Thy name went far unto the islands ; and for thy peace thou wast beloved . The countries marvelled at thee for thy songs , and proverbs , and parables , and interpretations . By the name of the Lord God , which is called the Lord God of Israel , thou didst gather gold as tin and didst multiply silver as lead . Thou didst bow thy loins unto women , and by thy body thou wast brought into subjection . Thou didst stain thy honour , and pollute thy seed : so that thou broughtest wrath upon thy children , and wast grieved for thy folly . So the kingdom was divided , and out of Ephraim ruled a rebellious kingdom . But the Lord will never leave off his mercy , neither shall any of his works perish , neither will he abolish the posterity of his elect , and the seed of him that loveth him he will not take away : wherefore he gave a remnant unto Jacob , and out of him a root unto David . Thus rested Solomon with his fathers , and of his seed he left behind him Roboam , even the foolishness of the people , and one that had no understanding , who turned away the people through his counsel . There was also Jeroboam the son of Nebat , who caused Israel to sin , and shewed Ephraim the way of sin : And their sins were multiplied exceedingly , that they were driven out of the land . For they sought out all wickedness , till the vengeance came upon them . Then stood up Elias the prophet as fire , and his word burned like a lamp . He brought a sore famine upon them , and by his zeal he diminished their number . By the word of the Lord he shut up the heaven , and also three times brought down fire . O Elias , how wast thou honoured in thy wondrous deeds ! and who may glory like unto thee ! Who didst raise up a dead man from death , and his soul from the place of the dead , by the word of the most High : Who broughtest kings to destruction , and honorable men from their bed : Who heardest the rebuke of the Lord in Sinai , and in Horeb the judgment of vengeance : Who annointedst kings to take revenge , and prophets to succeed after him : Who was taken up in a whirlwind of fire , and in a chariot of fiery horses : Who wast ordained for reproofs in their times , to pacify the wrath of the Lord's judgment , before it brake forth into fury , and to turn the heart of the father unto the son , and to restore the tribes of Jacob . Blessed are they that saw thee , and slept in love ; for we shall surely live . Elias it was , who was covered with a whirlwind : and Eliseus was filled with his spirit : whilst he lived , he was not moved with the presence of any prince , neither could any bring him into subjection . No word could overcome him ; and after his death his body prophesied . He did wonders in his life , and at his death were his works marvellous . For all this the people repented not , neither departed they from their sins , till they were spoiled and carried out of their land , and were scattered through all the earth : yet there remained a small people , and a ruler in the house of David : Of whom some did that which was pleasing to God , and some multiplied sins . Ezekias fortified his city , and brought in water into the midst thereof : he digged the hard rock with iron , and made wells for waters . In his time Sennacherib came up , and sent Rabsaces , and lifted up his hand against Sion , and boasted proudly . Then trembled their hearts and hands , and they were in pain , as women in travail . But they called upon the Lord which is merciful , and stretched out their hands toward him : and immediately the Holy One heard them out of heaven , and delivered them by the ministry of Esay . He smote the host of the Assyrians , and his angel destroyed them . For Ezekias had done the thing that pleased the Lord , and was strong in the ways of David his father , as Esay the prophet , who was great and faithful in his vision , had commanded him . In his time the sun went backward , and he lengthened the king's life . He saw by an excellent spirit what should come to pass at the last , and he comforted them that mourned in Sion . He shewed what should come to pass for ever , and secret things or ever they came . The remembrance of Josias is like the composition of the perfume that is made by the art of the apothecary : it is sweet as honey in all mouths , and as musick at a banquet of wine . He behaved himself uprightly in the conversion of the people , and took away the abominations of iniquity . He directed his heart unto the Lord , and in the time of the ungodly he established the worship of God . All , except David and Ezekias and Josias , were defective : for they forsook the law of the most High , even the kings of Juda failed . Therefore he gave their power unto others , and their glory to a strange nation . They burnt the chosen city of the sanctuary , and made the streets desolate , according to the prophecy of Jeremias . For they entreated him evil , who nevertheless was a prophet , sanctified in his mother's womb , that he might root out , and afflict , and destroy ; and that he might build up also , and plant . It was Ezekiel who saw the glorious vision , which was shewed him upon the chariot of the cherubims . For he made mention of the enemies under the figure of the rain , and directed them that went right . And of the twelve prophets let the memorial be blessed , and let their bones flourish again out of their place : for they comforted Jacob , and delivered them by assured hope . How shall we magnify Zorobabel ? even he was as a signet on the right hand : So was Jesus the son of Josedec : who in their time builded the house , and set up an holy temple to the Lord , which was prepared for everlasting glory . And among the elect was Neemias , whose renown is great , who raised up for us the walls that were fallen , and set up the gates and the bars , and raised up our ruins again . But upon the earth was no man created like Enoch ; for he was taken from the earth . Neither was there a young man born like Joseph , a governor of his brethren , a stay of the people , whose bones were regarded of the Lord . Sem and Seth were in great honour among men , and so was Adam above every living thing in creation . Simon the high priest , the son of Onias , who in his life repaired the house again , and in his days fortified the temple : And by him was built from the foundation the double height , the high fortress of the wall about the temple : In his days the cistern to receive water , being in compass as the sea , was covered with plates of brass : He took care of the temple that it should not fall , and fortified the city against besieging : How was he honoured in the midst of the people in his coming out of the sanctuary ! He was as the morning star in the midst of a cloud , and as the moon at the full : As the sun shining upon the temple of the most High , and as the rainbow giving light in the bright clouds : And as the flower of roses in the spring of the year , as lilies by the rivers of waters , and as the branches of the frankincense tree in the time of summer : As fire and incense in the censer , and as a vessel of beaten gold set with all manner of precious stones : And as a fair olive tree budding forth fruit , and as a cypress tree which groweth up to the clouds . When he put on the robe of honour , and was clothed with the perfection of glory , when he went up to the holy altar , he made the garment of holiness honourable . When he took the portions out of the priests' hands , he himself stood by the hearth of the altar , compassed about , as a young cedar in Libanus ; and as palm trees compassed they him round about . So were all the sons of Aaron in their glory , and the oblations of the Lord in their hands , before all the congregation of Israel . And finishing the service at the altar , that he might adorn the offering of the most high Almighty , He stretched out his hand to the cup , and poured of the blood of the grape , he poured out at the foot of the altar a sweetsmelling savour unto the most high King of all . Then shouted the sons of Aaron , and sounded the silver trumpets , and made a great noise to be heard , for a remembrance before the most High . Then all the people together hasted , and fell down to the earth upon their faces to worship their Lord God Almighty , the most High . The singers also sang praises with their voices , with great variety of sounds was there made sweet melody . And the people besought the Lord , the most High , by prayer before him that is merciful , till the solemnity of the Lord was ended , and they had finished his service . Then he went down , and lifted up his hands over the whole congregation of the children of Israel , to give the blessing of the Lord with his lips , and to rejoice in his name . And they bowed themselves down to worship the second time , that they might receive a blessing from the most High . Now therefore bless ye the God of all , which only doeth wondrous things every where , which exalteth our days from the womb , and dealeth with us according to his mercy . He grant us joyfulness of heart , and that peace may be in our days in Israel for ever : That he would confirm his mercy with us , and deliver us at his time ! There be two manner of nations which my heart abhorreth , and the third is no nation : They that sit upon the mountain of Samaria , and they that dwell among the Philistines , and that foolish people that dwell in Sichem . Jesus the son of Sirach of Jerusalem hath written in this book the instruction of understanding and knowledge , who out of his heart poured forth wisdom . Blessed is he that shall be exercised in these things ; and he that layeth them up in his heart shall become wise . For if he do them , he shall be strong to all things : for the light of the Lord leadeth him , who giveth wisdom to the godly . Blessed be the name of the Lord for ever . Amen , Amen . [ A Prayer of Jesus the son of Sirach . ] I will thank thee , O Lord and King , and praise thee , O God my Saviour : I do give praise unto thy name : For thou art my defender and helper , and has preserved my body from destruction , and from the snare of the slanderous tongue , and from the lips that forge lies , and has been mine helper against mine adversaries : And hast delivered me , according to the multitude of they mercies and greatness of thy name , from the teeth of them that were ready to devour me , and out of the hands of such as sought after my life , and from the manifold afflictions which I had ; From the choking of fire on every side , and from the midst of the fire which I kindled not ; From the depth of the belly of hell , from an unclean tongue , and from lying words . By an accusation to the king from an unrighteous tongue my soul drew near even unto death , my life was near to the hell beneath . They compassed me on every side , and there was no man to help me : I looked for the succour of men , but there was none . Then thought I upon thy mercy , O Lord , and upon thy acts of old , how thou deliverest such as wait for thee , and savest them out of the hands of the enemies . Then lifted I up my supplications from the earth , and prayed for deliverance from death . I called upon the Lord , the Father of my Lord , that he would not leave me in the days of my trouble , and in the time of the proud , when there was no help . I will praise thy name continually , and will sing praises with thanksgiving ; and so my prayer was heard : For thou savedst me from destruction , and deliveredst me from the evil time : therefore will I give thanks , and praise thee , and bless they name , O Lord . When I was yet young , or ever I went abroad , I desired wisdom openly in my prayer . I prayed for her before the temple , and will seek her out even to the end . Even from the flower till the grape was ripe hath my heart delighted in her : my foot went the right way , from my youth up sought I after her . I bowed down mine ear a little , and received her , and gat much learning . I profited therein , therefore will I ascribe glory unto him that giveth me wisdom . For I purposed to do after her , and earnestly I followed that which is good ; so shall I not be confounded . My soul hath wrestled with her , and in my doings I was exact : I stretched forth my hands to the heaven above , and bewailed my ignorances of her . I directed my soul unto her , and I found her in pureness : I have had my heart joined with her from the beginning , therefore shall I not be foresaken . My heart was troubled in seeking her : therefore have I gotten a good possession . The Lord hath given me a tongue for my reward , and I will praise him therewith . Draw near unto me , ye unlearned , and dwell in the house of learning . Wherefore are ye slow , and what say ye to these things , seeing your souls are very thirsty ? I opened my mouth , and said , Buy her for yourselves without money . Put your neck under the yoke , and let your soul receive instruction : she is hard at hand to find . Behold with your eyes , how that I have but little labour , and have gotten unto me much rest . Get learning with a great sum of money , and get much gold by her . Let your soul rejoice in his mercy , and be not ashamed of his praise . Work your work betimes , and in his time he will give you your reward . . And these are the words of the book , which Baruch the son of Nerias , the son of Maasias , the son of Sedecias , the son of Asadias , the son of Chelcias , wrote in Babylon , In the fifth year , and in the seventh day of the month , what time as the Chaldeans took Jerusalem , and burnt it with fire . And Baruch did read the words of this book in the hearing of Jechonias the son of Joachim king of Juda , and in the ears of all the people that came to hear the book , And in the hearing of the nobles , and of the king's sons , and in the hearing of the elders , and of all the people , from the lowest unto the highest , even of all them that dwelt at Babylon by the river Sud . Whereupon they wept , fasted , and prayed before the Lord . They made also a collection of money according to every man's power : And they sent it to Jerusalem unto Joachim the high priest , the son of Chelcias , son of Salom , and to the priests , and to all the people which were found with him at Jerusalem , At the same time when he received the vessels of the house of the Lord , that were carried out of the temple , to return them into the land of Juda , the tenth day of the month Sivan , namely , silver vessels , which Sedecias the son of Josias king of Jada had made , After that Nabuchodonosor king of Babylon had carried away Jechonias , and the princes , and the captives , and the mighty men , and the people of the land , from Jerusalem , and brought them unto Babylon . And they said , Behold , we have sent you money to buy you burnt offerings , and sin offerings , and incense , and prepare ye manna , and offer upon the altar of the Lord our God ; And pray for the life of Nabuchodonosor king of Babylon , and for the life of Balthasar his son , that their days may be upon earth as the days of heaven : And the Lord will give us strength , and lighten our eyes , and we shall live under the shadow of Nabuchodonosor king of Babylon , and under the shadow of Balthasar his son , and we shall serve them many days , and find favour in their sight . Pray for us also unto the Lord our God , for we have sinned against the Lord our God ; and unto this day the fury of the Lord and his wrath is not turned from us . And ye shall read this book which we have sent unto you , to make confession in the house of the Lord , upon the feasts and solemn days . And ye shall say , To the Lord our God belongeth righteousness , but unto us the confusion of faces , as it is come to pass this day , unto them of Juda , and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem , And to our kings , and to our princes , and to our priests , and to our prophets , and to our fathers : For we have sinned before the Lord , And disobeyed him , and have not hearkened unto the voice of the Lord our God , to walk in the commandments that he gave us openly : Since the day that the Lord brought our forefathers out of the land of Egypt , unto this present day , we have been disobedient unto the Lord our God , and we have been negligent in not hearing his voice . Wherefore the evils cleaved unto us , and the curse , which the Lord appointed by Moses his servant at the time that he brought our fathers out of the land of Egypt , to give us a land that floweth with milk and honey , like as it is to see this day . Nevertheless we have not hearkened unto the voice of the Lord our God , according unto all the words of the prophets , whom he sent unto us : But every man followed the imagination of his own wicked heart , to serve strange gods , and to do evil in the sight of the Lord our God . Therefore the Lord hath made good his word , which he pronounced against us , and against our judges that judged Israel , and against our kings , and against our princes , and against the men of Israel and Juda , To bring upon us great plagues , such as never happened under the whole heaven , as it came to pass in Jerusalem , according to the things that were written in the law of Moses ; That a man should eat the flesh of his own son , and the flesh of his own daughter . Moreover he hath delivered them to be in subjection to all the kingdoms that are round about us , to be as a reproach and desolation among all the people round about , where the Lord hath scattered them . Thus we were cast down , and not exalted , because we have sinned against the Lord our God , and have not been obedient unto his voice . To the Lord our God appertaineth righteousness : but unto us and to our fathers open shame , as appeareth this day . For all these plagues are come upon us , which the Lord hath pronounced against us Yet have we not prayed before the Lord , that we might turn every one from the imaginations of his wicked heart . Wherefore the Lord watched over us for evil , and the Lord hath brought it upon us : for the Lord is righteous in all his works which he hath commanded us . Yet we have not hearkened unto his voice , to walk in the commandments of the Lord , that he hath set before us . And now , O Lord God of Israel , that hast brought thy people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand , and high arm , and with signs , and with wonders , and with great power , and hast gotten thyself a name , as appeareth this day : O Lord our God , we have sinned , we have done ungodly , we have dealt unrighteously in all thine ordinances . Let thy wrath turn from us : for we are but a few left among the heathen , where thou hast scattered us . Hear our prayers , O Lord , and our petitions , and deliver us for thine own sake , and give us favour in the sight of them which have led us away : That all the earth may know that thou art the Lord our God , because Israel and his posterity is called by thy name . O Lord , look down from thine holy house , and consider us : bow down thine ear , O Lord , to hear us . Open thine eyes , and behold ; for the dead that are in the graves , whose souls are taken from their bodies , will give unto the Lord neither praise nor righteousness : But the soul that is greatly vexed , which goeth stooping and feeble , and the eyes that fail , and the hungry soul , will give thee praise and righteousness , O Lord . Therefore we do not make our humble supplication before thee , O Lord our God , for the righteousness of our fathers , and of our kings . For thou hast sent out thy wrath and indignation upon us , as thou hast spoken by thy servants the prophets , saying , Thus saith the Lord , Bow down your shoulders to serve the king of Babylon : so shall ye remain in the land that I gave unto your fathers . But if ye will not hear the voice of the Lord , to serve the king of Babylon , I will cause to cease out of the cites of Judah , and from without Jerusalem , the voice of mirth , and the voice of joy , the voice of the bridegroom , and the voice of the bride : and the whole land shall be desolate of inhabitants . But we would not hearken unto thy voice , to serve the king of Babylon : therefore hast thou made good the words that thou spakest by thy servants the prophets , namely , that the bones of our kings , and the bones of our fathers , should be taken out of their place . And , lo , they are cast out to the heat of the day , and to the frost of the night , and they died in great miseries by famine , by sword , and by pestilence . And the house which is called by thy name hast thou laid waste , as it is to be seen this day , for the wickedness of the house of Israel and the house of Juda . O Lord our God , thou hast dealt with us after all thy goodness , and according to all that great mercy of thine , As thou spakest by thy servant Moses in the day when thou didst command him to write the law before the children of Israel , saying , If ye will not hear my voice , surely this very great multitude shall be turned into a small number among the nations , where I will scatter them . For I knew that they would not hear me , because it is a stiffnecked people : but in the land of their captivities they shall remember themselves . And shall know that I am the Lord their God : for I will give them an heart , and ears to hear : And they shall praise me in the land of their captivity , and think upon my name , And return from their stiff neck , and from their wicked deeds : for they shall remember the way of their fathers , which sinned before the Lord . And I will bring them again into the land which I promised with an oath unto their fathers , Abraham , Isaac , and Jacob , and they shall be lords of it : and I will increase them , and they shall not be diminished . And I will make an everlasting covenant with them to be their God , and they shall be my people : and I will no more drive my people of Israel out of the land that I have given them . O Lord Almighty , God of Israel , the soul in anguish the troubled spirit , crieth unto thee . Hear , O Lord , and have mercy ; ar thou art merciful : and have pity upon us , because we have sinned before thee . For thou endurest for ever , and we perish utterly . O Lord Almighty , thou God of Israel , hear now the prayers of the dead Israelites , and of their children , which have sinned before thee , and not hearkened unto the voice of thee their God : for the which cause these plagues cleave unto us . Remember not the iniquities of our forefathers : but think upon thy power and thy name now at this time . For thou art the Lord our God , and thee , O Lord , will we praise . And for this cause thou hast put thy fear in our hearts , to the intent that we should call upon thy name , and praise thee in our captivity : for we have called to mind all the iniquity of our forefathers , that sinned before thee . Behold , we are yet this day in our captivity , where thou hast scattered us , for a reproach and a curse , and to be subject to payments , according to all the iniquities of our fathers , which departed from the Lord our God . Hear , Israel , the commandments of life : give ear to understand wisdom . How happeneth it Israel , that thou art in thine enemies' land , that thou art waxen old in a strange country , that thou art defiled with the dead , That thou art counted with them that go down into the grave ? Thou hast forsaken the fountain of wisdom . For if thou hadst walked in the way of God , thou shouldest have dwelled in peace for ever . Learn where is wisdom , where is strength , where is understanding ; that thou mayest know also where is length of days , and life , where is the light of the eyes , and peace . Who hath found out her place ? or who hath come into her treasures ? Where are the princes of the heathen become , and such as ruled the beasts upon the earth ; They that had their pastime with the fowls of the air , and they that hoarded up silver and gold , wherein men trust , and made no end of their getting ? For they that wrought in silver , and were so careful , and whose works are unsearchable , They are vanished and gone down to the grave , and others are come up in their steads . Young men have seen light , and dwelt upon the earth : but the way of knowledge have they not known , Nor understood the paths thereof , nor laid hold of it : their children were far off from that way . It hath not been heard of in Chanaan , neither hath it been seen in Theman . The Agarenes that seek wisdom upon earth , the merchants of Meran and of Theman , the authors of fables , and searchers out of understanding ; none of these have known the way of wisdom , or remember her paths . O Israel , how great is the house of God ! and how large is the place of his possession ! Great , and hath none end ; high , and unmeasurable . There were the giants famous from the beginning , that were of so great stature , and so expert in war . Those did not the Lord choose , neither gave he the way of knowledge unto them : But they were destroyed , because they had no wisdom , and perished through their own foolishness . Who hath gone up into heaven , and taken her , and brought her down from the clouds ? Who hath gone over the sea , and found her , and will bring her for pure gold ? No man knoweth her way , nor thinketh of her path . But he that knoweth all things knoweth her , and hath found her out with his understanding : he that prepared the earth for evermore hath filled it with fourfooted beasts : He that sendeth forth light , and it goeth , calleth it again , and it obeyeth him with fear . The stars shined in their watches , and rejoiced : when he calleth them , they say , Here we be ; and so with cheerfulness they shewed light unto him that made them . This is our God , and there shall none other be accounted of in comparison of him He hath found out all the way of knowledge , and hath given it unto Jacob his servant , and to Israel his beloved . Afterward did he shew himself upon earth , and conversed with men . This is the book of the commandments of God , and the law that endureth for ever : all they that keep it shall come to life ; but such as leave it shall die . Turn thee , O Jacob , and take hold of it : walk in the presence of the light thereof , that thou mayest be illuminated . Give not thine honour to another , nor the things that are profitable unto thee to a strange nation . O Israel , happy are we : for things that are pleasing to God are made known unto us . Be of good cheer , my people , the memorial of Israel . Ye were sold to the nations , not for [ your ] destruction : but because ye moved God to wrath , ye were delivered unto the enemies . For ye provoked him that made you by sacrificing unto devils , and not to God . Ye have forgotten the everlasting God , that brought you up ; and ye have grieved Jerusalem , that nursed you . For when she saw the wrath of God coming upon you , she said , Hearken , O ye that dwell about Sion : God hath brought upon me great mourning ; For I saw the captivity of my sons and daughters , which the Everlasting brought upon them . With joy did I nourish them ; but sent them away with weeping and mourning . Let no man rejoice over me , a widow , and forsaken of many , who for the sins of my children am left desolate ; because they departed from the law of God . They knew not his statutes , nor walked in the ways of his commandments , nor trod in the paths of discipline in his righteousness . Let them that dwell about Sion come , and remember ye the captivity of my sons and daughters , which the Everlasting hath brought upon them . For he hath brought a nation upon them from far , a shameless nation , and of a strange language , who neither reverenced old man , nor pitied child . These have carried away the dear beloved children of the widow , and left her that was alone desolate without daughters . But what can I help you ? For he that brought these plagues upon you will deliver you from the hands of your enemies . Go your way , O my children , go your way : for I am left desolate . I have put off the clothing of peace , and put upon me the sackcloth of my prayer : I will cry unto the Everlasting in my days . Be of good cheer , O my children , cry unto the Lord , and he will deliver you from the power and hand of the enemies . For my hope is in the Everlasting , that he will save you ; and joy is come unto me from the Holy One , because of the mercy which shall soon come unto you from the Everlasting our Saviour . For I sent you out with mourning and weeping : but God will give you to me again with joy and gladness for ever . Like as now the neighbours of Sion have seen your captivity : so shall they see shortly your salvation from our God which shall come upon you with great glory , and brightness of the Everlasting . My children , suffer patiently the wrath that is come upon you from God : for thine enemy hath persecuted thee ; but shortly thou shalt see his destruction , and shalt tread upon his neck . My delicate ones have gone rough ways , and were taken away as a flock caught of the enemies . Be of good comfort , O my children , and cry unto God : for ye shall be remembered of him that brought these things upon you . For as it was your mind to go astray from God : so , being returned , seek him ten times more . For he that hath brought these plagues upon you shall bring you everlasting joy with your salvation . Take a good heart , O Jerusalem : for he that gave thee that name will comfort thee . Miserable are they that afflicted thee , and rejoiced at thy fall . Miserable are the cities which thy children served : miserable is she that received thy sons . For as she rejoiced at thy ruin , and was glad of thy fall : so shall she be grieved for her own desolation . For I will take away the rejoicing of her great multitude , and her pride shall be turned into mourning . For fire shall come upon her from the Everlasting , long to endure ; and she shall be inhabited of devils for a great time . O Jerusalem , look about thee toward the east , and behold the joy that cometh unto thee from God . Lo , thy sons come , whom thou sentest away , they come gathered together from the east to the west by the word of the Holy One , rejoicing in the glory of God . Put off , O Jerusalem , the garment of mourning and affliction , and put on the comeliness of the glory that cometh from God for ever . Cast about thee a double garment of the righteousness which cometh from God ; and set a diadem on thine head of the glory of the Everlasting . For God will shew thy brightness unto every country under heaven . For thy name shall be called of God for ever The peace of righteousness , and The glory of God's worship . Arise , O Jerusalem , and stand on high , and look about toward the east , and behold thy children gathered from the west unto the east by the word of the Holy One , rejoicing in the remembrance of God . For they departed from thee on foot , and were led away of their enemies : but God bringeth them unto thee exalted with glory , as children of the kingdom . For God hath appointed that every high hill , and banks of long continuance , should be cast down , and valleys filled up , to make even the ground , that Israel may go safely in the glory of God , Moreover even the woods and every sweetsmelling tree shall overshadow Israel by the commandment of God . For God shall lead Israel with joy in the light of his glory with the mercy and righteousness that cometh from him . . A copy of an epistle , which Jeremy sent unto them which were to be led captives into Babylon by the king of the Babylonians , to certify them , as it was commanded him of God . Because of the sins which ye have committed before God , ye shall be led away captives into Babylon by Nabuchodonosor king of the Babylonians . So when ye be come unto Babylon , ye shall remain there many years , and for a long season , namely , seven generations : and after that I will bring you away peaceably from thence . Now shall ye see in Babylon gods of silver , and of gold , and of wood , borne upon shoulders , which cause the nations to fear . Beware therefore that ye in no wise be like to strangers , neither be ye and of them , when ye see the multitude before them and behind them , worshipping them . But say ye in your hearts , O Lord , we must worship thee . For mine angel is with you , and I myself caring for your souls . As for their tongue , it is polished by the workman , and they themselves are gilded and laid over with silver ; yet are they but false , and cannot speak . And taking gold , as it were for a virgin that loveth to go gay , they make crowns for the heads of their gods . Sometimes also the priests convey from their gods gold and silver , and bestow it upon themselves . Yea , they will give thereof to the common harlots , and deck them as men with garments , [ being ] gods of silver , and gods of gold , and wood . Yet cannot these gods save themselves from rust and moth , though they be covered with purple raiment . They wipe their faces because of the dust of the temple , when there is much upon them . And he that cannot put to death one that offendeth him holdeth a sceptre , as though he were a judge of the country . He hath also in his right hand a dagger and an ax : but cannot deliver himself from war and thieves . Whereby they are known not to be gods : therefore fear them not . For like as a vessel that a man useth is nothing worth when it is broken ; even so it is with their gods : when they be set up in the temple , their eyes be full of dust through the feet of them that come in . And as the doors are made sure on every side upon him that offendeth the king , as being committed to suffer death : even so the priests make fast their temples with doors , with locks , and bars , lest their gods be spoiled with robbers . They light them candles , yea , more than for themselves , whereof they cannot see one . They are as one of the beams of the temple , yet they say their hearts are gnawed upon by things creeping out of the earth ; and when they eat them and their clothes , they feel it not . Their faces are blacked through the smoke that cometh out of the temple . Upon their bodies and heads sit bats , swallows , and birds , and the cats also . By this ye may know that they are no gods : therefore fear them not . Notwithstanding the gold that is about them to make them beautiful , except they wipe off the rust , they will not shine : for neither when they were molten did they feel it . The things wherein there is no breath are bought for a most high price . They are borne upon shoulders , having no feet whereby they declare unto men that they be nothing worth . They also that serve them are ashamed : for if they fall to the ground at any time , they cannot rise up again of themselves : neither , if one set them upright , can they move of themselves : neither , if they be bowed down , can they make themselves straight : but they set gifts before them as unto dead men . As for the things that are sacrificed unto them , their priests sell and abuse ; in like manner their wives lay up part thereof in salt ; but unto the poor and impotent they give nothing of it . Menstruous women and women in childbed eat their sacrifices : by these things ye may know that they are no gods : fear them not . For how can they be called gods ? because women set meat before the gods of silver , gold , and wood . And the priests sit in their temples , having their clothes rent , and their heads and beards shaven , and nothing upon their heads . They roar and cry before their gods , as men do at the feast when one is dead . The priests also take off their garments , and clothe their wives and children . Whether it be evil that one doeth unto them , or good , they are not able to recompense it : they can neither set up a king , nor put him down . In like manner , they can neither give riches nor money : though a man make a vow unto them , and keep it not , they will not require it . They can save no man from death , neither deliver the weak from the mighty . They cannot restore a blind man to his sight , nor help any man in his distress . They can shew no mercy to the widow , nor do good to the fatherless . Their gods of wood , and which are overlaid with gold and silver , are like the stones that be hewn out of the mountain : they that worship them shall be confounded . How should a man then think and say that they are gods , when even the Chaldeans themselves dishonour them ? Who if they shall see one dumb that cannot speak , they bring him , and intreat Bel that he may speak , as though he were able to understand . Yet they cannot understand this themselves , and leave them : for they have no knowledge . The women also with cords about them , sitting in the ways , burn bran for perfume : but if any of them , drawn by some that passeth by , lie with him , she reproacheth her fellow , that she was not thought as worthy as herself , nor her cord broken . Whatsoever is done among them is false : how may it then be thought or said that they are gods ? They are made of carpenters and goldsmiths : they can be nothing else than the workmen will have them to be . And they themselves that made them can never continue long ; how should then the things that are made of them be gods ? For they left lies and reproaches to them that come after . For when there cometh any war or plague upon them , the priests consult with themselves , where they may be hidden with them . How then cannot men perceive that they be no gods , which can neither save themselves from war , nor from plague ? For seeing they be but of wood , and overlaid with silver and gold , it shall be known hereafter that they are false : And it shall manifestly appear to all nations and kings that they are no gods , but the works of men's hands , and that there is no work of God in them . Who then may not know that they are no gods ? For neither can they set up a king in the land , nor give rain unto men . Neither can they judge their own cause , nor redress a wrong , being unable : for they are as crows between heaven and earth . Whereupon when fire falleth upon the house of gods of wood , or laid over with gold or silver , their priests will flee away , and escape ; but they themselves shall be burned asunder like beams . Moreover they cannot withstand any king or enemies : how can it then be thought or said that they be gods ? Neither are those gods of wood , and laid over with silver or gold , able to escape either from thieves or robbers . Whose gold , and silver , and garments wherewith they are clothed , they that are strong take , and go away withal : neither are they able to help themselves . Therefore it is better to be a king that sheweth his power , or else a profitable vessel in an house , which the owner shall have use of , than such false gods ; or to be a door in an house , to keep such things therein , than such false gods . or a pillar of wood in a a palace , than such false gods . For sun , moon , and stars , being bright and sent to do their offices , are obedient . In like manner the lightning when it breaketh forth is easy to be seen ; and after the same manner the wind bloweth in every country . And when God commandeth the clouds to go over the whole world , they do as they are bidden . And the fire sent from above to consume hills and woods doeth as it is commanded : but these are like unto them neither in shew nor power . Wherefore it is neither to be supposed nor said that they are gods , seeing , they are able neither to judge causes , nor to do good unto men . Knowing therefore that they are no gods , fear them not , For they can neither curse nor bless kings : Neither can they shew signs in the heavens among the heathen , nor shine as the sun , nor give light as the moon . The beasts are better than they : for they can get under a cover and help themselves . It is then by no means manifest unto us that they are gods : therefore fear them not . For as a scarecrow in a garden of cucumbers keepeth nothing : so are their gods of wood , and laid over with silver and gold . And likewise their gods of wood , and laid over with silver and gold , are like to a white thorn in an orchard , that every bird sitteth upon ; as also to a dead body , that is east into the dark . And ye shall know them to be no gods by the bright purple that rotteth upon then 1: and they themselves afterward shall be eaten , and shall be a reproach in the country . Better therefore is the just man that hath none idols : for he shall be far from reproach . . And they walked in the midst of the fire , praising God , and blessing the Lord . Then Azarias stood up , and prayed on this manner ; and opening his mouth in the midst of the fire said , Blessed art thou , O Lord God of our fathers : thy name is worthy to be praised and glorified for evermore : For thou art righteous in all the things that thou hast done to us : yea , true are all thy works , thy ways are right , and all thy judgments truth . In all the things that thou hast brought upon us , and upon the holy city of our fathers , even Jerusalem , thou hast executed true judgment : for according to truth and judgment didst thou bring all these things upon us because of our sins . For we have sinned and committed iniquity , departing from thee . In all things have we trespassed , and not obeyed thy commandments , nor kept them , neither done as thou hast commanded us , that it might go well with us . Wherefore all that thou hast brought upon us , and every thing that thou hast done to us , thou hast done in true judgment . And thou didst deliver us into the hands of lawless enemies , most hateful forsakers of God , and to an unjust king , and the most wicked in all the world . And now we cannot open our mouths , we are become a shame and reproach to thy servants ; and to them that worship thee . Yet deliver us not up wholly , for thy name's sake , neither disannul thou thy covenant : And cause not thy mercy to depart from us , for thy beloved Abraham's sake , for thy servant Issac's sake , and for thy holy Israel's sake ; To whom thou hast spoken and promised , that thou wouldest multiply their seed as the stars of heaven , and as the sand that lieth upon the seashore . For we , O Lord , are become less than any nation , and be kept under this day in all the world because of our sins . Neither is there at this time prince , or prophet , or leader , or burnt offering , or sacrifice , or oblation , or incense , or place to sacrifice before thee , and to find mercy . Nevertheless in a contrite heart and an humble spirit let us be accepted . Like as in the burnt offerings of rams and bullocks , and like as in ten thousands of fat lambs : so let our sacrifice be in thy sight this day , and grant that we may wholly go after thee : for they shall not be confounded that put their trust in thee . And now we follow thee with all our heart , we fear thee , and seek thy face . Put us not to shame : but deal with us after thy lovingkindness , and according to the multitude of thy mercies . Deliver us also according to thy marvellous works , and give glory to thy name , O Lord : and let all them that do thy servants hurt be ashamed ; And let them be confounded in all their power and might , and let their strength be broken ; And let them know that thou art God , the only God , and glorious over the whole world . And the king's servants , that put them in , ceased not to make the oven hot with rosin , pitch , tow , and small wood ; So that the flame streamed forth above the furnace forty and nine cubits . And it passed through , and burned those Chaldeans it found about the furnace . But the angel of the Lord came down into the oven together with Azarias and his fellows , and smote the flame of the fire out of the oven ; And made the midst of the furnace as it had been a moist whistling wind , so that the fire touched them not at all , neither hurt nor troubled them . Then the three , as out of one mouth , praised , glorified , and blessed , God in the furnace , saying , Blessed art thou , O Lord God of our fathers : and to be praised and exalted above all for ever . And blessed is thy glorious and holy name : and to be praised and exalted above all for ever . Blessed art thou in the temple of thine holy glory : and to be praised and glorified above all for ever . Blessed art thou that beholdest the depths , and sittest upon the cherubims : and to be praised and exalted above all for ever . Blessed art thou on the glorious throne of thy kingdom : and to be praised and glorified above all for ever . Blessed art thou in the firmament of heaven : and above ail to be praised and glorified for ever . O all ye works of the Lord , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever , O ye heavens , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye angels of the Lord , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O all ye waters that be above the heaven , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O all ye powers of the Lord , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye sun and moon , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye stars of heaven , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O every shower and dew , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O all ye winds , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever , O ye fire and heat , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye winter and summer , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . 0 ye dews and storms of snow , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye nights and days , bless ye the Lord : bless and exalt him above all for ever . O ye light and darkness , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye ice and cold , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye frost and snow , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye lightnings and clouds , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O let the earth bless the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye mountains and little hills , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O all ye things that grow in the earth , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye mountains , bless ye the Lord : Praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye seas and rivers , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye whales , and all that move in the waters , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O all ye fowls of the air , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O all ye beasts and cattle , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye children of men , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O Israel , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye priests of the Lord , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye servants of the Lord , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye spirits and souls of the righteous , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O ye holy and humble men of heart , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever . O Ananias , Azarias , and Misael , bless ye the Lord : praise and exalt him above all for ever : far he hath delivered us from hell , and saved us from the hand of death , and delivered us out of the midst of the furnace and burning flame : even out of the midst of the fire hath he delivered us . O give thanks unto the Lord , because he is gracious : for his mercy endureth for ever . O all ye that worship the Lord , bless the God of gods , praise him , and give him thanks : for his mercy endureth for ever . . And it happened , after that Alexander son of Philip , the Macedonian , who came out of the land of Chettiim , had smitten Darius king of the Persians and Medes , that he reigned in his stead , the first over Greece , And made many wars , and won many strong holds , and slew the kings of the earth , And went through to the ends of the earth , and took spoils of many nations , insomuch that the earth was quiet before him ; whereupon he was exalted and his heart was lifted up . And he gathered a mighty strong host and ruled over countries , and nations , and kings , who became tributaries unto him . And after these things he fell sick , and perceived that he should die . Wherefore he called his servants , such as were honourable , and had been brought up with him from his youth , and parted his kingdom among them , while he was yet alive . So Alexander reigned twelves years , and then died . And his servants bare rule every one in his place . And after his death they all put crowns upon themselves ; so did their sons after them many years : and evils were multiplied in the earth . And there came out of them a wicked root Antiochus surnamed Epiphanes , son of Antiochus the king , who had been an hostage at Rome , and he reigned in the hundred and thirty and seventh year of the kingdom of the Greeks . In those days went there out of Israel wicked men , who persuaded many , saying , Let us go and make a covenant with the heathen that are round about us : for since we departed from them we have had much sorrow . So this device pleased them well . Then certain of the people were so forward herein , that they went to the king , who gave them licence to do after the ordinances of the heathen : Whereupon they built a place of exercise at Jerusalem according to the customs of the heathen : And made themselves uncircumcised , and forsook the holy covenant , and joined themselves to the heathen , and were sold to do mischief . Now when the kingdom was established before Antiochus , he thought to reign over Egypt that he might have the dominion of two realms . Wherefore he entered into Egypt with a great multitude , with chariots , and elephants , and horsemen , and a great navy , And made war against Ptolemee king of Egypt : but Ptolemee was afraid of him , and fled ; and many were wounded to death . Thus they got the strong cities in the land of Egypt and he took the spoils thereof . And after that Antiochus had smitten Egypt , he returned again in the hundred forty and third year , and went up against Israel and Jerusalem with a great multitude , And entered proudly into the sanctuary , and took away the golden altar , and the candlestick of light , and all the vessels thereof , And the table of the shewbread , and the pouring vessels , and the vials . and the censers of gold , and the veil , and the crown , and the golden ornaments that were before the temple , all which he pulled off . He took also the silver and the gold , and the precious vessels : also he took the hidden treasures which he found . And when he had taken all away , he went into his own land , having made a great massacre , and spoken very proudly . Therefore there was a great mourning in Israel , in every place where they were ; So that the princes and elders mourned , the virgins and young men were made feeble , and the beauty of women was changed . Every bridegroom took up lamentation , and she that sat in the marriage chamber was in heaviness , The land also was moved for the inhabitants thereof , and all the house of Jacob was covered with confusion . And after two years fully expired the king sent his chief collector of tribute unto the cities of Juda , who came unto Jerusalem with a great multitude , And spake peaceable words unto them , but all was deceit : for when they had given him credence , he fell suddenly upon the city , and smote it very sore , and destroyed much people of Israel . And when he had taken the spoils of the city , he set it on fire , and pulled down the houses and walls thereof on every side . But the women and children took they captive , and possessed the cattle . Then builded they the city of David with a great and strong wall , and with mighty towers , and made it a strong hold for them . And they put therein a sinful nation , wicked men , and fortified themselves therein . They stored it also with armour and victuals , and when they had gathered together the spoils of Jerusalem , they laid them up there , and so they became a sore snare : For it was a place to lie in wait against the sanctuary , and an evil adversary to Israel . Thus they shed innocent blood on every side of the sanctuary , and defiled it : Insomuch that the inhabitants of Jerusalem fled because of them : whereupon the city was made an habitation of strangers , and became strange to those that were born in her ; and her own children left her . Her sanctuary was laid waste like a wilderness , her feasts were turned into mourning , her sabbaths into reproach her honour into contempt . As had been her glory , so was her dishonour increased , and her excellency was turned into mourning . Moreover king Antiochus wrote to his whole kingdom , that all should be one people , And every one should leave his laws : so all the heathen agreed according to the commandment of the king . Yea , many also of the Israelites consented to his religion , and sacrificed unto idols , and profaned the sabbath . For the king had sent letters by messengers unto Jerusalem and the cities of Juda that they should follow the strange laws of the land , And forbid burnt offerings , and sacrifice , and drink offerings , in the temple ; and that they should profane the sabbaths and festival days : And pollute the sanctuary and holy people : Set up altars , and groves , and chapels of idols , and sacrifice swine's flesh , and unclean beasts : That they should also leave their children uncircumcised , and make their souls abominable with all manner of uncleanness and profanation : To the end they might forget the law , and change all the ordinances . And whosoever would not do according to the commandment of the king , he said , he should die . In the selfsame manner wrote he to his whole kingdom , and appointed overseers over all the people , commanding the cities of Juda to sacrifice , city by city . Then many of the people were gathered unto them , to wit every one that forsook the law ; and so they committed evils in the land ; And drove the Israelites into secret places , even wheresoever they could flee for succour . Now the fifteenth day of the month Casleu , in the hundred forty and fifth year , they set up the abomination of desolation upon the altar , and builded idol altars throughout the cities of Juda on every side ; And burnt incense at the doors of their houses , and in the streets . And when they had rent in pieces the books of the law which they found , they burnt them with fire . And whosoever was found with any the book of the testament , or if any committed to the law , the king's commandment was , that they should put him to death . Thus did they by their authority unto the Israelites every month , to as many as were found in the cities . Now the five and twentieth day of the month they did sacrifice upon the idol altar , which was upon the altar of God . At which time according to the commandment they put to death certain women , that had caused their children to be circumcised . And they hanged the infants about their necks , and rifled their houses , and slew them that had circumcised them . Howbeit many in Israel were fully resolved and confirmed in themselves not to eat any unclean thing . Wherefore the rather to die , that they might not be defiled with meats , and that they might not profane the holy covenant : so then they died . And there was very great wrath upon Israel . In those days arose Mattathias the son of John , the son of Simeon , a priest of the sons of Joarib , from Jerusalem , and dwelt in Modin . And he had five sons , Joannan , called Caddis : Simon ; called Thassi : Judas , who was called Maccabeus : Eleazar , called Avaran : and Jonathan , whose surname was Apphus . And when he saw the blasphemies that were committed in Juda and Jerusalem , He said , Woe is me ! wherefore was I born to see this misery of my people , and of the holy city , and to dwell there , when it was delivered into the hand of the enemy , and the sanctuary into the hand of strangers ? Her temple is become as a man without glory . Her glorious vessels are carried away into captivity , her infants are slain in the streets , her young men with the sword of the enemy . What nation hath not had a part in her kingdom and gotten of her spoils ? All her ornaments are taken away ; of a free woman she is become a bondslave . And , behold , our sanctuary , even our beauty and our glory , is laid waste , and the Gentiles have profaned it . To what end therefore shall we live any longer ? Then Mattathias and his sons rent their clothes , and put on sackcloth , and mourned very sore . In the mean while the king's officers , such as compelled the people to revolt , came into the city Modin , to make them sacrifice . And when many of Israel came unto them , Mattathias also and his sons came together . Then answered the king's officers , and said to Mattathias on this wise , Thou art a ruler , and an honourable and great man in this city , and strengthened with sons and brethren : Now therefore come thou first , and fulfil the king's commandment , like as all the heathen have done , yea , and the men of Juda also , and such as remain at Jerusalem : so shalt thou and thy house be in the number of the king's friends , and thou and thy children shall be honoured with silver and gold , and many rewards . Then Mattathias answered and spake with a loud voice , Though all the nations that are under the king's dominion obey him , and fall away every one from the religion of their fathers , and give consent to his commandments : Yet will I and my sons and my brethren walk in the covenant of our fathers . God forbid that we should forsake the law and the ordinances . We will not hearken to the king's words , to go from our religion , either on the right hand , or the left . Now when he had left speaking these words , there came one of the Jews in the sight of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin , according to the king's commandment . Which thing when Mattathias saw , he was inflamed with zeal , and his reins trembled , neither could he forbear to shew his anger according to judgment : wherefore he ran , and slew him upon the altar . Also the king's commissioner , who compelled men to sacrifice , he killed at that time , and the altar he pulled down . Thus dealt he zealously for the law of God like as Phinees did unto Zambri the son of Salom . And Mattathias cried throughout the city with a loud voice , saying , Whosoever is zealous of the law , and maintaineth the covenant , let him follow me . So he and his sons fled into the mountains , and left all that ever they had in the city . Then many that sought after justice and judgment went down into the wilderness , to dwell there : Both they , and their children , and their wives ; and their cattle ; because afflictions increased sore upon them . Now when it was told the king's servants , and the host that was at Jerusalem , in the city of David , that certain men , who had broken the king's commandment , were gone down into the secret places in the wilderness , They pursued after them a great number , and having overtaken them , they camped against them , and made war against them on the sabbath day . And they said unto them , Let that which ye have done hitherto suffice ; come forth , and do according to the commandment of the king , and ye shall live . But they said , We will not come forth , neither will we do the king's commandment , to profane the sabbath day . So then they gave them the battle with all speed . Howbeit they answered them not , neither cast they a stone at them , nor stopped the places where they lay hid ; But said , Let us die all in our innocency : heaven and earth will testify for us , that ye put us to death wrongfully . So they rose up against them in battle on the sabbath , and they slew them , with their wives and children and their cattle , to the number of a thousand people . Now when Mattathias and his friends understood hereof , they mourned for them right sore . And one of them said to another , If we all do as our brethren have done , and fight not for our lives and laws against the heathen , they will now quickly root us out of the earth . At that time therefore they decreed , saying , Whosoever shall come to make battle with us on the sabbath day , we will fight against him ; neither will we die all , as our brethren that were murdered im the secret places . Then came there unto him a company of Assideans who were mighty men of Israel , even all such as were voluntarily devoted unto the law . Also all they that fled for persecution joined themselves unto them , and were a stay unto them . So they joined their forces , and smote sinful men in their anger , and wicked men in their wrath : but the rest fled to the heathen for succour . Then Mattathias and his friends went round about , and pulled down the altars : And what children soever they found within the coast of Israel uncircumcised , those they circumcised valiantly . They pursued also after the proud men , and the work prospered in their hand . So they recovered the law out of the hand of the Gentiles , and out of the hand of kings , neither suffered they the sinner to triumph . Now when the time drew near that Mattathias should die , he said unto his sons , Now hath pride and rebuke gotten strength , and the time of destruction , and the wrath of indignation : Now therefore , my sons , be ye zealous for the law , and give your lives for the covenant of your fathers . Call to remembrance what acts our fathers did in their time ; so shall ye receive great honour and an everlasting name . Was not Abraham found faithful in temptation , and it was imputed unto him for righteousness ? Joseph in the time of his distress kept the commandment and was made lord of Egypt . Phinees our father in being zealous and fervent obtained the covenant of an everlasting priesthood . Jesus for fulfilling the word was made a judge in Israel . Caleb for bearing witness before the congregation received the heritage of the land . David for being merciful possessed the throne of an everlasting kingdom . Elias for being zealous and fervent for the law was taken up into heaven . Ananias , Azarias , and Misael , by believing were saved out of the flame . Daniel for his innocency was delivered from the mouth of lions . And thus consider ye throughout all ages , that none that put their trust in him shall be overcome . Fear not then the words of a sinful man : for his glory shall be dung and worms . To day he shall be lifted up and to morrow he shall not be found , because he is returned into his dust , and his thought is come to nothing . Wherefore , ye my sons , be valiant and shew yourselves men in the behalf of the law ; for by it shall ye obtain glory . And behold , I know that your brother Simon is a man of counsel , give ear unto him alway : he shall be a father unto you . As for Judas Maccabeus , he hath been mighty and strong , even from his youth up : let him be your captain , and fight the battle of the people . Take also unto you all those that observe the law , and avenge ye the wrong of your people . Recompense fully the heathen , and take heed to the commandments of the law . So he blessed them , and was gathered to his fathers . And he died in the hundred forty and sixth year , and his sons buried him in the sepulchres of his fathers at Modin , and all Israel made great lamentation for him . Then his son Judas , called Maccabeus , rose up in his stead . And all his brethren helped him , and so did all they that held with his father , and they fought with cheerfulness the battle of Israel . So he gat his people great honour , and put on a breastplate as a giant , and girt his warlike harness about him , and he made battles , protecting the host with his sword . In his acts he was like a lion , and like a lion's whelp roaring for his prey . For He pursued the wicked , and sought them out , and burnt up those that vexed his people . Wherefore the wicked shrunk for fear of him , and all the workers of iniquity were troubled , because salvation prospered in his hand . He grieved also many kings , and made Jacob glad with his acts , and his memorial is blessed for ever . Moreover he went through the cities of Juda , destroying the ungodly out of them , and turning away wrath from Israel : So that he was renowned unto the utmost part of the earth , and he received unto him such as were ready to perish . Then Apollonius gathered the Gentiles together , and a great host out of Samaria , to fight against Israel . Which thing when Judas perceived , he went forth to meet him , and so he smote him , and slew him : many also fell down slain , but the rest fled . Wherefore Judas took their spoils , and Apollonius' sword also , and therewith he fought all his life long . Now when Seron , a prince of the army of Syria , heard say that Judas had gathered unto him a multitude and company of the faithful to go out with him to war ; He said , I will get me a name and honour in the kingdom ; for I will go fight with Judas and them that are with him , who despise the king's commandment . So he made him ready to go up , and there went with him a mighty host of the ungodly to help him , and to be avenged of the children of Israel . And when he came near to the going up of Bethhoron , Judas went forth to meet him with a small company : Who , when they saw the host coming to meet them , said unto Judas , How shall we be able , being so few , to fight against so great a multitude and so strong , seeing we are ready to faint with fasting all this day ? Unto whom Judas answered , It is no hard matter for many to be shut up in the hands of a few ; and with the God of heaven it is all one , to deliver with a great multitude , or a small company : For the victory of battle standeth not in the multitude of an host ; but strength cometh from heaven . They come against us in much pride and iniquity to destroy us , and our wives and children , and to spoil us : But we fight for our lives and our laws . Wherefore the Lord himself will overthrow them before our face : and as for you , be ye not afraid of them . Now as soon as he had left off speaking , he leapt suddenly upon them , and so Seron and his host was overthrown before him . And they pursued them from the going down of Bethhoron unto the plain , where were slain about eight hundred men of them ; and the residue fled into the land of the Philistines . Then began the fear of Judas and his brethren , and an exceeding great dread , to fall upon the nations round about them : Insomuch as his fame came unto the king , and all nations talked of the battles of Judas . Now when king Antiochus heard these things , he was full of indignation : wherefore he sent and gathered together all the forces of his realm , even a very strong army . He opened also his treasure , and gave his soldiers pay for a year , commanding them to be ready whensoever he should need them . Nevertheless , when he saw that the money of his treasures failed and that the tributes in the country were small , because of the dissension and plague , which he had brought upon the land in taking away the laws which had been of old time ; He feared that he should not be able to bear the charges any longer , nor to have such gifts to give so liberally as he did before : for he had abounded above the kings that were before him . Wherefore , being greatly perplexed in his mind , he determined to go into Persia , there to take the tributes of the countries , and to gather much money . So he left Lysias , a nobleman , and one of the blood royal , to oversee the affairs of the king from the river Euphrates unto the borders of Egypt : And to bring up his son Antiochus , until he came again . Moreover he delivered unto him the half of his forces , and the elephants , and gave him charge of all things that he would have done , as also concerning them that dwelt in Juda and Jerusalem : To wit , that he should send an army against them , to destroy and root out the strength of Israel , and the remnant of Jerusalem , and to take away their memorial from that place ; And that he should place strangers in all their quarters , and divide their land by lot . So the king took the half of the forces that remained , and departed from Antioch , his royal city , the hundred forty and seventh year ; and having passed the river Euphrates , he went through the high countries . Then Lysias chose Ptolemee the son of Dorymenes , Nicanor , and Gorgias , mighty men of the king's friends : And with them he sent forty thousand footmen , and seven thousand horsemen , to go into the land of Juda , and to destroy it , as the king commanded . So they went forth with all their power , and came and pitched by Emmaus in the plain country . And the merchants of the country , hearing the fame of them , took silver and gold very much , with servants , and came into the camp to buy the children of Israel for slaves : a power also of Syria and of the land of the Philistines joined themselves unto them . Now when Judas and his brethren saw that miseries were multiplied , and that the forces did encamp themselves in their borders : for they knew how the king had given commandment to destroy the people , and utterly abolish them ; They said one to another , Let us restore the decayed fortune of our people , and let us fight for our people and the sanctuary . Then was the congregation gathered together , that they might be ready for battle , and that they might pray , and ask mercy and compassion . Now Jerusalem lay void as a wilderness , there was none of her children that went in or out : the sanctuary also was trodden down , and aliens kept the strong hold ; the heathen had their habitation in that place ; and joy was taken from Jacob , and the pipe with the harp ceased . Wherefore the Israelites assembled themselves together , and came to Maspha , over against Jerusalem ; for in Maspha was the place where they prayed aforetime in Israel . Then they fasted that day , and put on sackcloth , and cast ashes upon their heads , and rent their clothes , And laid open the book of the law , wherein the heathen had sought to paint the likeness of their images . They brought also the priests' garments , and the firstfruits , and the tithes : and the Nazarites they stirred up , who had accomplished their days . Then cried they with a loud voice toward heaven , saying , What shall we do with these , and whither shall we carry them away ? For thy sanctuary is trodden down and profaned , and thy priests are in heaviness , and brought low . And lo , the heathen are assembled together against us to destroy us : what things they imagine against us , thou knowest . How shall we be able to stand against them , except thou , O God , be our help ? Then sounded they with trumpets , and cried with a loud voice . And after this Judas ordained captains over the people , even captains over thousands , and over hundreds , and over fifties , and over tens . But as for such as were building houses , or had betrothed wives , or were planting vineyards , or were fearful , those he commanded that they should return , every man to his own house , according to the law . So the camp removed , and pitched upon the south side of Emmaus . And Judas said , arm yourselves , and be valiant men , and see that ye be in readiness against the morning , that ye may fight with these nations , that are assembled together against us to destroy us and our sanctuary : For it is better for us to die in battle , than to behold the calamities of our people and our sanctuary . Nevertheless , as the will of God is in heaven , so let him do . Then took Gorgias five thousand footmen , and a thousand of the best horsemen , and removed out of the camp by night ; To the end he might rush in upon the camp of the Jews , and smite them suddenly . And the men of the fortress were his guides . Now when Judas heard thereof he himself removed , and the valiant men with him , that he might smite the king's army which was at Emmaus , While as yet the forces were dispersed from the camp . In the mean season came Gorgias by night into the camp of Judas : and when he found no man there , he sought them in the mountains : for said he , These fellows flee from us But as soon as it was day , Judas shewed himself in the plain with three thousand men , who nevertheless had neither armour nor swords to their minds . And they saw the camp of the heathen , that it was strong and well harnessed , and compassed round about with horsemen ; and these were expert of war . Then said Judas to the men that were with him , Fear ye not their multitude , neither be ye afraid of their assault . Remember how our fathers were delivered in the Red sea , when Pharaoh pursued them with an army . Now therefore let us cry unto heaven , if peradventure the Lord will have mercy upon us , and remember the covenant of our fathers , and destroy this host before our face this day : That so all the heathen may know that there is one who delivereth and saveth Israel . Then the strangers lifted up their eyes , and saw them coming over against them . Wherefore they went out of the camp to battle ; but they that were with Judas sounded their trumpets . So they joined battle , and the heathen being discomfited fled into the plain . Howbeit all the hindmost of them were slain with the sword : for they pursued them unto Gazera , and unto the plains of Idumea , and Azotus , and Jamnia , so that there were slain of them upon a three thousand men . This done , Judas returned again with his host from pursuing them , And said to the people , Be not greedy of the spoil inasmuch as there is a battle before us , And Gorgias and his host are here by us in the mountain : but stand ye now against our enemies , and overcome them , and after this ye may boldly take the spoils . As Judas was yet speaking these words , there appeared a part of them looking out of the mountain : Who when they perceived that the Jews had put their host to flight and were burning the tents ; for the smoke that was seen declared what was done : When therefore they perceived these things , they were sore afraid , and seeing also the host of Judas in the plain ready to fight , They fled every one into the land of strangers . Then Judas returned to spoil the tents , where they got much gold , and silver , and blue silk , and purple of the sea , and great riches . After this they went home , and sung a song of thanksgiving , and praised the Lord in heaven : because it is good , because his mercy endureth forever . Thus Israel had a great deliverance that day . Now all the strangers that had escaped came and told Lysias what had happened : Who , when he heard thereof , was confounded and discouraged , because neither such things as he would were done unto Israel , nor such things as the king commanded him were come to pass . The next year therefore following Lysias gathered together threescore thousand choice men of foot , and five thousand horsemen , that he might subdue them . So they came into Idumea , and pitched their tents at Bethsura , and Judas met them with ten thousand men . And when he saw that mighty army , he prayed and said , Blessed art thou , O Saviour of Israel , who didst quell the violence of the mighty man by the hand of thy servant David , and gavest the host of strangers into the hands of Jonathan the son of Saul , and his armourbearer ; Shut up this army in the hand of thy people Israel , and let them be confounded in their power and horsemen : Make them to be of no courage , and cause the boldness of their strength to fall away , and let them quake at their destruction : Cast them down with the sword of them that love thee , and let all those that know thy name praise thee with thanksgiving . So they joined battle ; and there were slain of the host of Lysias about five thousand men , even before them were they slain . Now when Lysias saw his army put to flight , and the manliness of Judas' soldiers , and how they were ready either to live or die valiantly , he went into Antiochia , and gathered together a company of strangers , and having made his army greater than it was , he purposed to come again into Judea . Then said Judas and his brethren , Behold , our enemies are discomfited : let us go up to cleanse and dedicate the sanctuary . Upon this all the host assembled themselves together , and went up into mount Sion . And when they saw the sanctuary desolate , and the altar profaned , and the gates burned up , and shrubs growing in the courts as in a forest , or in one of the mountains , yea , and the priests' chambers pulled down ; They rent their clothes , and made great lamentation , and cast ashes upon their heads , And fell down flat to the ground upon their faces , and blew an alarm with the trumpets , and cried toward heaven . Then Judas appointed certain men to fight against those that were in the fortress , until he had cleansed the sanctuary . So he chose priests of blameless conversation , such as had pleasure in the law : Who cleansed the sanctuary , and bare out the defiled stones into an unclean place . And when as they consulted what to do with the altar of burnt offerings , which was profaned ; They thought it best to pull it down , lest it should be a reproach to them , because the heathen had defiled it : wherefore they pulled it down , And laid up the stones in the mountain of the temple in a convenient place , until there should come a prophet to shew what should be done with them . Then they took whole stones according to the law , and built a new altar according to the former ; And made up the sanctuary , and the things that were within the temple , and hallowed the courts . They made also new holy vessels , and into the temple they brought the candlestick , and the altar of burnt offerings , and of incense , and the table . And upon the altar they burned incense , and the lamps that were upon the candlestick they lighted , that they might give light in the temple . Furthermore they set the loaves upon the table , and spread out the veils , and finished all the works which they had begun to make . Now on the five and twentieth day of the ninth month , which is called the month Casleu , in the hundred forty and eighth year , they rose up betimes in the morning , And offered sacrifice according to the law upon the new altar of burnt offerings , which they had made . Look , at what time and what day the heathen had profaned it , even in that was it dedicated with songs , and citherns , and harps , and cymbals . Then all the people fell upon their faces , worshipping and praising the God of heaven , who had given them good success . And so they kept the dedication of the altar eight days and offered burnt offerings with gladness , and sacrificed the sacrifice of deliverance and praise . They decked also the forefront of the temple with crowns of gold , and with shields ; and the gates and the chambers they renewed , and hanged doors upon them . Thus was there very great gladness among the people , for that the reproach of the heathen was put away . Moreover Judas and his brethren with the whole congregation of Israel ordained , that the days of the dedication of the altar should be kept in their season from year to year by the space of eight days , from the five and twentieth day of the month Casleu , with mirth and gladness . At that time also they builded up the mount Sion with high walls and strong towers round about , lest the Gentiles should come and tread it down as they had done before . And they set there a garrison to keep it , and fortified Bethsura to preserve it ; that the people might have a defence against Idumea . Now when the nations round about heard that the altar was built and the sanctuary renewed as before , it displeased them very much . Wherefore they thought to destroy the generation of Jacob that was among them , and thereupon they began to slay and destroy the people . Then Judas fought against the children of Esau in Idumea at Arabattine , because they besieged Gael : and he gave them a great overthrow , and abated their courage , and took their spoils . Also he remembered the injury of the children of Bean , who had been a snare and an offence unto the people , in that they lay in wait for them in the ways . He shut them up therefore in the towers , and encamped against them , and destroyed them utterly , and burned the towers of that place with fire , and all that were therein . Afterward he passed over to the children of Ammon , where he found a mighty power , and much people , with Timotheus their captain . So he fought many battles with them , till at length they were discomfited before him ; and he smote them . And when he had taken Jazar , with the towns belonging thereto , he returned into Judea . Then the heathen that were at Galaad assembled themselves together against the Israelites that were in their quarters , to destroy them ; but they fled to the fortress of Dathema . And sent letters unto Judas and his brethren , The heathen that are round about us are assembled together against us to destroy us : And they are preparing to come and take the fortress whereunto we are fled , Timotheus being captain of their host . Come now therefore , and deliver us from their hands , for many of us are slain : Yea , all our brethren that were in the places of Tobie are put to death : their wives and their children also they have carried away captives , and borne away their stuff ; and they have destroyed there about a thousand men . While these letters were yet reading , behold , there came other messengers from Galilee with their clothes rent , who reported on this wise , And said , They of Ptolemais , and of Tyrus , and Sidon , and all Galilee of the Gentiles , are assembled together against us to consume us . Now when Judas and the people heard these words , there assembled a great congregation together , to consult what they should do for their brethren , that were in trouble , and assaulted of them . Then said Judas unto Simon his brother , Choose thee out men , and go and deliver thy brethren that are in Galilee , for I and Jonathan my brother will go into the country of Galaad . So he left Joseph the son of Zacharias , and Azarias , captains of the people , with the remnant of the host in Judea to keep it . Unto whom he gave commandment , saying , Take ye the charge of this people , and see that ye make not war against the heathen until the time that we come again . Now unto Simon were given three thousand men to go into Galilee , and unto Judas eight thousand men for the country of Galaad . Then went Simon into Galilee , where he fought many battles with the heathen , so that the heathen were discomfited by him . And he pursued them unto the gate of Ptolemais ; and there were slain of the heathen about three thousand men , whose spoils he took . And those that were in Galilee , and in Arbattis , with their wives and their children , and all that they had , took he away with him , and brought them into Judea with great joy . Judas Maccabeus also and his brother Jonathan went over Jordan , and travelled three days' journey in the wilderness , Where they met with the Nabathites , who came unto them in a peaceable manner , and told them every thing that had happened to their brethren in the land of Galaad : And how that many of them were shut up in Bosora , and Bosor , and Alema , Casphor , Maked , and Carnaim ; all these cities are strong and great : And that they were shut up in the rest of the cities of the country of Galaad , and that against to morrow they had appointed to bring their host against the forts , and to take them , and to destroy them all in one day . Hereupon Judas and his host turned suddenly by the way of the wilderness unto Bosora ; and when he had won the city , he slew all the males with the edge of the sword , and took all their spoils , and burned the city with fire , From whence he removed by night , and went till he came to the fortress . And betimes in the morning they looked up , and , behold , there was an innumerable people bearing ladders and other engines of war , to take the fortress : for they assaulted them . When Judas therefore saw that the battle was begun , and that the cry of the city went up to heaven , with trumpets , and a great sound , He said unto his host , Fight this day for your brethren . So he went forth behind them in three companies , who sounded their trumpets , and cried with prayer . Then the host of Timotheus , knowing that it was Maccabeus , fled from him : wherefore he smote them with a great slaughter ; so that there were killed of them that day about eight thousand men . This done , Judas turned aside to Maspha ; and after he had assaulted it he took and slew all the males therein , and received the spoils thereof and and burnt it with fire . From thence went he , and took Casphon , Maged , Bosor , and the other cities of the country of Galaad . After these things gathered Timotheus another host and encamped against Raphon beyond the brook . So Judas sent men to espy the host , who brought him word , saying , All the heathen that be round about us are assembled unto them , even a very great host . He hath also hired the Arabians to help them and they have pitched their tents beyond the brook , ready to come and fight against thee . Upon this Judas went to meet them . Then Timotheus said unto the captains of his host , When Judas and his host come near the brook , if he pass over first unto us , we shall not be able to withstand him ; for he will mightily prevail against us : But if he be afraid , and camp beyond the river , we shall go over unto him , and prevail against him . Now when Judas came near the brook , he caused the scribes of the people to remain by the brook : unto whom he gave commandment , saying , Suffer no man to remain in the camp , but let all come to the battle . So he went first over unto them , and all the people after him : then all the heathen , being discomfited before him , cast away their weapons , and fled unto the temple that was at Carnaim . But they took the city , and burned the temple with all that were therein . Thus was Carnaim subdued , neither could they stand any longer before Judas . Then Judas gathered together all the Israelites that were in the country of Galaad , from the least unto the greatest , even their wives , and their children , and their stuff , a very great host , to the end they might come into the land of Judea . Now when they came unto Ephron , ( this was a great city in the way as they should go , very well fortified ) they could not turn from it , either on the right hand or the left , but must needs pass through the midst of it . Then they of the city shut them out , and stopped up the gates with stones . Whereupon Judas sent unto them in peaceable manner , saying , Let us pass through your land to go into our own country , and none shall do you any hurt ; we will only pass through on foot : howbeit they would not open unto him . Wherefore Judas commanded a proclamation to be made throughout the host , that every man should pitch his tent in the place where he was . So the soldiers pitched , and assaulted the city all that day and all that night , till at the length the city was delivered into his hands : Who then slew all the males with the edge of the sword , and rased the city , and took the spoils thereof , and passed through the city over them that were slain . After this went they over Jordan into the great plain before Bethsan . And Judas gathered together those that came behind , and exhorted the people all the way through , till they came into the land of Judea . So they went up to mount Sion with joy and gladness , where they offered burnt offerings , because not one of them were slain until they had returned in peace . Now what time as Judas and Jonathan were in the land of Galaad , and Simon his brother in Galilee before Ptolemais , Joseph the son of Zacharias , and Azarias , captains of the garrisons , heard of the valiant acts and warlike deeds which they had done . Wherefore they said , Let us also get us a name , and go fight against the heathen that are round about us . So when they had given charge unto the garrison that was with them , they went toward Jamnia . Then came Gorgias and his men out of the city to fight against them . And so it was , that Joseph and Azaras were put to flight , and pursued unto the borders of Judea : and there were slain that day of the people of Israel about two thousand men . Thus was there a great overthrow among the children of Israel , because they were not obedient unto Judas and his brethren , but thought to do some valiant act . Moreover these men came not of the seed of those , by whose hand deliverance was given unto Israel . Howbeit the man Judas and his brethren were greatly renowned in the sight of all Israel , and of all the heathen , wheresoever their name was heard of ; Insomuch as the the people assembled unto them with joyful acclamations . Afterward went Judas forth with his brethren , and fought against the children of Esau in the land toward the south , where he smote Hebron , and the towns thereof , and pulled down the fortress of it , and burned the towers thereof round about . From thence he removed to go into the land of the Philistines , and passed through Samaria . At that time certain priests , desirous to shew their valour , were slain in battle , for that they went out to fight unadvisedly . So Judas turned to Azotus in the land of the Philistines , and when he had pulled down their altars , and burned their carved images with fire , and spoiled their cities , he returned into the land of Judea . About that time king Antiochus travelling through the high countries heard say , that Elymais in the country of Persia was a city greatly renowned for riches , silver , and gold ; And that there was in it a very rich temple , wherein were coverings of gold , and breastplates , and shields , which Alexander , son of Philip , the Macedonian king , who reigned first among the Grecians , had left there . Wherefore he came and sought to take the city , and to spoil it ; but he was not able , because they of the city , having had warning thereof , Rose up against him in battle : so he fled , and departed thence with great heaviness , and returned to Babylon . Moreover there came one who brought him tidings into Persia , that the armies , which went against the land of Judea , were put to flight : And that Lysias , who went forth first with a great power was driven away of the Jews ; and that they were made strong by the armour , and power , and store of spoils , which they had gotten of the armies , whom they had destroyed : Also that they had pulled down the abomination , which he had set up upon the altar in Jerusalem , and that they had compassed about the sanctuary with high walls , as before , and his city Bethsura . Now when the king heard these words , he was astonished and sore moved : whereupon he laid him down upon his bed , and fell sick for grief , because it had not befallen him as he looked for . And there he continued many days : for his grief was ever more and more , and he made account that he should die . Wherefore he called for all his friends , and said unto them , The sleep is gone from mine eyes , and my heart faileth for very care . And I thought with myself , Into what tribulation am I come , and how great a flood of misery is it , wherein now I am ! for I was bountiful and beloved in my power . But now I remember the evils that I did at Jerusalem , and that I took all the vessels of gold and silver that were therein , and sent to destroy the inhabitants of Judea without a cause . I perceive therefore that for this cause these troubles are come upon me , and , behold , I perish through great grief in a strange land . Then called he for Philip , one of his friends , who he made ruler over all his realm , And gave him the crown , and his robe , and his signet , to the end he should bring up his son Antiochus , and nourish him up for the kingdom . So king Antiochus died there in the hundred forty and ninth year . Now when Lysias knew that the king was dead , he set up Antiochus his son , whom he had brought up being young , to reign in his stead , and his name he called Eupator . About this time they that were in the tower shut up the Israelites round about the sanctuary , and sought always their hurt , and the strengthening of the heathen . Wherefore Judas , purposing to destroy them , called all the people together to besiege them . So they came together , and besieged them in the hundred and fiftieth year , and he made mounts for shot against them , and other engines . Howbeit certain of them that were besieged got forth , unto whom some ungodly men of Israel joined themselves : And they went unto the king , and said , How long will it be ere thou execute judgment , and avenge our brethren ? We have been willing to serve thy father , and to do as he would have us , and to obey his commandments ; For which cause they of our nation besiege the tower , and are alienated from us : moreover as many of us as they could light on they slew , and spoiled our inheritance . Neither have they stretched out their hand against us only , but also against their borders . And , behold , this day are they besieging the tower at Jerusalem , to take it : the sanctuary also and Bethsura have they fortified . Wherefore if thou dost not prevent them quickly , they will do the greater things than these , neither shalt thou be able to rule them . Now when the king heard this , he was angry , and gathered together all his friends , and the captains of his army , and those that had charge of the horse . There came also unto him from other kingdoms , and from isles of the sea , bands of hired soldiers . So that the number of his army was an hundred thousand footmen , and twenty thousand horsemen , and two and thirty elephants exercised in battle . These went through Idumea , and pitched against Bethsura , which they assaulted many days , making engines of war ; but they of Bethsura came out , and burned them with fire , and fought valiantly . Upon this Judas removed from the tower , and pitched in Bathzacharias , over against the king's camp . Then the king rising very early marched fiercely with his host toward Bathzacharias , where his armies made them ready to battle , and sounded the trumpets . And to the end they might provoke the elephants to fight , they shewed them the blood of grapes and mulberries . Moreover they divided the beasts among the armies , and for every elephant they appointed a thousand men , armed with coats of mail , and with helmets of brass on their heads ; and beside this , for every beast were ordained five hundred horsemen of the best . These were ready at every occasion : wheresoever the beast was , and whithersoever the beast went , they went also , neither departed they from him . And upon the beasts were there strong towers of wood , which covered every one of them , and were girt fast unto them with devices : there were also upon every one two and thirty strong men , that fought upon them , beside the Indian that ruled him . As for the remnant of the horsemen , they set them on this side and that side at the two parts of the host giving them signs what to do , and being harnessed all over amidst the ranks . Now when the sun shone upon the shields of gold and brass , the mountains glistered therewith , and shined like lamps of fire . So part of the king's army being spread upon the high mountains , and part on the valleys below , they marched on safely and in order . Wherefore all that heard the noise of their multitude , and the marching of the company , and the rattling of the harness , were moved : for the army was very great and mighty . Then Judas and his host drew near , and entered into battle , and there were slain of the king's army six hundred men . Eleazar also , surnamed Savaran , perceiving that one of the beasts , armed with royal harness , was higher than all the rest , and supposing that the king was upon him , Put himself in jeopardy , to the end he might deliver his people , and get him a perpetual name : Wherefore he ran upon him courageously through the midst of the battle , slaying on the right hand and on the left , so that they were divided from him on both sides . Which done , he crept under the elephant , and thrust him under , and slew him : whereupon the elephant fell down upon him , and there he died . Howbeit the rest of the Jews seeing the strength of the king , and the violence of his forces , turned away from them . Then the king's army went up to Jerusalem to meet them , and the king pitched his tents against Judea , and against mount Sion . But with them that were in Bethsura he made peace : for they came out of the city , because they had no victuals there to endure the siege , it being a year of rest to the land . So the king took Bethsura , and set a garrison there to keep it . As for the sanctuary , he besieged it many days : and set there artillery with engines and instruments to cast fire and stones , and pieces to cast darts and slings . Whereupon they also made engines against their engines , and held them battle a long season . Yet at the last , their vessels being without victuals , ( for that it was the seventh year , and they in Judea that were delivered from the Gentiles , had eaten up the residue of the store ; ) There were but a few left in the sanctuary , because the famine did so prevail against them , that they were fain to disperse themselves , every man to his own place . At that time Lysias heard say , that Philip , whom Antiochus the king , whiles he lived , had appointed to bring up his son Antiochus , that he might be king , Was returned out of Persia and Media , and the king's host also that went with him , and that he sought to take unto him the ruling of the affairs . Wherefore he went in all haste , and said to the king and the captains of the host and the company , We decay daily , and our victuals are but small , and the place we lay siege unto is strong , and the affairs of the kingdom lie upon us : Now therefore let us be friends with these men , and make peace with them , and with all their nation ; And covenant with them , that they shall live after their laws , as they did before : for they are therefore displeased , and have done all these things , because we abolished their laws . So the king and the princes were content : wherefore he sent unto them to make peace ; and they accepted thereof . Also the king and the princes made an oath unto them : whereupon they went out of the strong hold . Then the king entered into mount Sion ; but when he saw the strength of the place , he broke his oath that he had made , and gave commandment to pull down the wall round about . Afterward departed he in all haste , and returned unto Antiochia , where he found Philip to be master of the city : so he fought against him , and took the city by force . In the hundred and one and fiftieth year Demetrius the son of Seleucus departed from Rome , and came up with a few men unto a city of the sea coast , and reigned there . And as he entered into the palace of his ancestors , so it was , that his forces had taken Antiochus and Lysias , to bring them unto him . Wherefore , when he knew it , he said , Let me not see their faces . So his host slew them . Now when Demetrius was set upon the throne of his kingdom , There came unto him all the wicked and ungodly men of Israel , having Alcimus , who was desirous to be high priest , for their captain : And they accused the people to the king , saying , Judas and his brethren have slain all thy friends , and driven us out of our own land . Now therefore send some man whom thou trustest , and let him go and see what havock he hath made among us , and in the king's land , and let him punish them with all them that aid them . Then the king chose Bacchides , a friend of the king , who ruled beyond the flood , and was a great man in the kingdom , and faithful to the king , And him he sent with that wicked Alcimus , whom he made high priest , and commanded that he should take vengeance of the children of Israel . So they departed , and came with a great power into the land of Judea , where they sent messengers to Judas and his brethren with peaceable words deceitfully . But they gave no heed to their words ; for they saw that they were come with a great power . Then did there assemble unto Alcimus and Bacchides a company of scribes , to require justice . Now the Assideans were the first among the children of Israel that sought peace of them : For said they , One that is a priest of the seed of Aaron is come with this army , and he will do us no wrong . So he spake unto them , peaceably , and sware unto them , saying , we will procure the harm neither of you nor your friends . Whereupon they believed him : howbeit he took of them threescore men , and slew them in one day , according to the words which he wrote , The flesh of thy saints have they cast out , and their blood have they shed round about Jerusalem , and there was none to bury them . Wherefore the fear and dread of them fell upon all the people , who said , There is neither truth nor righteousness in them ; for they have broken the covenant and oath that they made . After this , removed Bacchides from Jerusalem , and pitched his tents in Bezeth , where he sent and took many of the men that had forsaken him , and certain of the people also , and when he had slain them , he cast them into the great pit . Then committed he the country to Alcimus , and left with him a power to aid him : so Bacchides went to the king . But Alcimus contended for the high priesthood . And unto him resorted all such as troubled the people , who , after they had gotten the land of Juda into their power , did much hurt in Israel . Now when Judas saw all the mischief that Alcimus and his company had done among the Israelites , even above the heathen , He went out into all the coasts of Judea round about , and took vengeance of them that had revolted from him , so that they durst no more go forth into the country . On the other side , when Alcimus saw that Judas and his company had gotten the upper hand , and knew that he was not able to abide their force , he went again to the king , and said all the worst of them that he could . Then the king sent Nicanor , one of his honourable princes , a man that bare deadly hate unto Israel , with commandment to destroy the people . So Nicanor came to Jerusalem with a great force ; and sent unto Judas and his brethren deceitfully with friendly words , saying , Let there be no battle between me and you ; I will come with a few men , that I may see you in peace . He came therefore to Judas , and they saluted one another peaceably . Howbeit the enemies were prepared to take away Judas by violence . Which thing after it was known to Judas , to wit , that he came unto him with deceit , he was sore afraid of him , and would see his face no more . Nicanor also , when he saw that his counsel was discovered , went out to fight against Judas beside Capharsalama : Where there were slain of Nicanor's side about five thousand men , and the rest fled into the city of David . After this went Nicanor up to mount Sion , and there came out of the sanctuary certain of the priests and certain of the elders of the people , to salute him peaceably , and to shew him the burnt sacrifice that was offered for the king . But he mocked them , and laughed at them , and abused them shamefully , and spake proudly , And sware in his wrath , saying , Unless Judas and his host be now delivered into my hands , if ever I come again in safety , I will burn up this house : and with that he went out in a great rage . Then the priests entered in , and stood before the altar and the temple , weeping , and saying , Thou , O Lord , didst choose this house to be called by thy name , and to be a house of prayer and petition for thy people : Be avenged of this man and his host , and let them fall by the sword : remember their blasphemies , and suffer them not to continue any longer . So Nicanor went out of Jerusalem , and pitched his tents in Bethhoron , where an host out of Syria met him . But Judas pitched in Adasa with three thousand men , and there he prayed , saying , O Lord , when they that were sent from the king of the Assyrians blasphemed , thine angel went out , and smote an hundred fourscore and five thousand of them . Even so destroy thou this host before us this day , that the rest may know that he hath spoken blasphemously against thy sanctuary , and judge thou him according to his wickedness . So the thirteenth day of the month Adar the hosts joined battle : but Nicanor's host was discomfited , and he himself was first slain in the battle . Now when Nicanor's host saw that he was slain , they cast away their weapons , and fled . Then they pursued after them a day's journey , from Adasa unto Gazera , sounding an alarm after them with their trumpets . Whereupon they came forth out of all the towns of Judea round about , and closed them in ; so that they , turning back upon them that pursued them , were all slain with the sword , and not one of them was left . Afterwards they took the spoils , and the prey , and smote off Nicanors head , and his right hand , which he stretched out so proudly , and brought them away , and hanged them up toward Jerusalem . For this cause the people rejoiced greatly , and they kept that day a day of great gladness . Moreover they ordained to keep yearly this day , being the thirteenth of Adar . Thus the land of Juda was in rest a little while . Now Judas had heard of the the Romans , that they were mighty and valiant men , and such as would lovingly accept all that joined themselves unto them , and make a league of amity with all that came unto them ; And that they were men of great valour . It was told him also of their wars and noble acts which they had done among the Galatians , and how they had conquered them , and brought them under tribute ; And what they had done in the country of Spain , for the winning of the mines of the silver and gold which is there ; And that by their policy and patience they had conquered all the place , though it were very far from them ; and the kings also that came against them from the uttermost part of the earth , till they had discomfited them , and given them a great overthrow , so that the rest did give them tribute every year : Beside this , how they had discomfited in battle Philip , and Perseus , king of the Citims , with others that lifted up themselves against them , and had overcome them : How also Antiochus the great king of Asia , that came against them in battle , having an hundred and twenty elephants , with horsemen , and chariots , and a very great army , was discomfited by them ; And how they took him alive , and covenanted that he and such as reigned after him should pay a great tribute , and give hostages , and that which was agreed upon , And the country of India , and Media and Lydia and of the goodliest countries , which they took of him , and gave to king Eumenes : Moreover how the Grecians had determined to come and destroy them ; And that they , having knowledge thereof sent against them a certain captain , and fighting with them slew many of them , and carried away captives their wives and their children , and spoiled them , and took possession of their lands , and pulled down their strong holds , and brought them to be their servants unto this day : It was told him besides , how they destroyed and brought under their dominion all other kingdoms and isles that at any time resisted them ; But with their friends and such as relied upon them they kept amity : and that they had conquered kingdoms both far and nigh , insomuch as all that heard of their name were afraid of them : Also that , whom they would help to a kingdom , those reign ; and whom again they would , they displace : finally , that they were greatly exalted : Yet for all this none of them wore a crown or was clothed in purple , to be magnified thereby : Moreover how they had made for themselves a senate house , wherein three hundred and twenty men sat in council daily , consulting alway for the people , to the end they might be well ordered : And that they committed their government to one man every year , who ruled over all their country , and that all were obedient to that one , and that there was neither envy nor emmulation among them . In consideration of these things , Judas chose Eupolemus the son of John , the son of Accos , and Jason the son of Eleazar , and sent them to Rome , to make a league of amity and confederacy with them , And to intreat them that they would take the yoke from them ; for they saw that the kingdom of the Grecians did oppress Israel with servitude . They went therefore to Rome , which was a very great journey , and came into the senate , where they spake and said . Judas Maccabeus with his brethren , and the people of the Jews , have sent us unto you , to make a confederacy and peace with you , and that we might be registered your confederates and friends . So that matter pleased the Romans well . And this is the copy of the epistle which the senate wrote back again in tables of brass , and sent to Jerusalem , that there they might have by them a memorial of peace and confederacy : Good success be to the Romans , and to the people of the Jews , by sea and by land for ever : the sword also and enemy be far from them , If there come first any war upon the Romans or any of their confederates throughout all their dominion , The people of the Jews shall help them , as the time shall be appointed , with all their heart : Neither shall they give any thing unto them that make war upon them , or aid them with victuals , weapons , money , or ships , as it hath seemed good unto the Romans ; but they shall keep their covenants without taking any thing therefore . In the same manner also , if war come first upon the nation of the Jews , the Romans shall help them with all their heart , according as the time shall be appointed them : Neither shall victuals be given to them that take part against them , or weapons , or money , or ships , as it hath seemed good to the Romans ; but they shall keep their covenants , and that without deceit . According to these articles did the Romans make a covenant with the people of the Jews . Howbeit if hereafter the one party or the other shall think to meet to add or diminish any thing , they may do it at their pleasures , and whatsoever they shall add or take away shall be ratified . And as touching the evils that Demetrius doeth to the Jews , we have written unto him , saying , Wherefore thou made thy yoke heavy upon our friends and confederates the Jews ? If therefore they complain any more against thee , we will do them justice , and fight with thee by sea and by land . Furthermore , when Demetrius heard the Nicanor and his host were slain in battle , he sent Bacchides and Alcimus into the land of Judea the second time , and with them the chief strength of his host : Who went forth by the way that leadeth to Galgala , and pitched their tents before Masaloth , which is in Arbela , and after they had won it , they slew much people . Also the first month of the hundred fifty and second year they encamped before Jerusalem : From whence they removed , and went to Berea , with twenty thousand footmen and two thousand horsemen . Now Judas had pitched his tents at Eleasa , and three thousand chosen men with him : Who seeing the multitude of the other army to he so great were sore afraid ; whereupon many conveyed themselves out of the host , insomuch as abode of them no more but eight hundred men . When Judas therefore saw that his host slipt away , and that the battle pressed upon him , he was sore troubled in mind , and much distressed , for that he had no time to gather them together . Nevertheless unto them that remained he said , Let us arise and go up against our enemies , if peradventure we may be able to fight with them . But they dehorted him , saying , We shall never be able : let us now rather save our lives , and hereafter we will return with our brethren , and fight against them : for we are but few . Then Judas said , God forbid that I should do this thing , and flee away from them : if our time be come , let us die manfully for our brethren , and let us not stain our honour . With that the host of Bacchides removed out of their tents , and stood over against them , their horsemen being divided into two troops , and their slingers and archers going before the host and they that marched in the foreward were all mighty men . As for Bacchides , he was in the right wing : so the host drew near on the two parts , and sounded their trumpets . They also of Judas' side , even they sounded their trumpets also , so that the earth shook at the noise of the armies , and the battle continued from morning till night . Now when Judas perceived that Bacchides and the strength of his army were on the right side , he took with him all the hardy men , Who discomfited the right wing , and pursued them unto the mount Azotus . But when they of the left wing saw that they of the right wing were discomfited , they followed upon Judas and those that were with him hard at the heels from behind : Whereupon there was a sore battle , insomuch as many were slain on both parts . Judas also was killed , and the remnant fled . THen Jonathan and Simon took Judas their brother , and buried him in the sepulchre of his fathers in Modin . Moreover they bewailed him , and all Israel made great lamentation for him , and mourned many days , saying , How is the valiant man fallen , that delivered Israel ! As for the other things concerning Judas and his wars , and the noble acts which he did , and his greatness , they are not written : for they were very many . Now after the death of Judas the wicked began to put forth their heads in all the coasts of Israel , and there arose up all such as wrought iniquity . In those days also was there a very great famine , by reason whereof the country revolted , and went with them . Then Bacchides chose the wicked men , and made them lords of the country . And they made enquiry and search for Judas' friends , and brought them unto Bacchides , who took vengeance of them , and used them despitefully . So was there a great affliction in Israel , the like whereof was not since the time that a prophet was not seen among them . For this cause all Judas' friends came together , and said unto Jonathan , Since thy brother Judas died , we have no man like him to go forth against our enemies , and Bacchides , and against them of our nation that are adversaries to us . Now therefore we have chosen thee this day to be our prince and captain in his stead , that thou mayest fight our battles . Upon this Jonathan took the governance upon him at that time , and rose up instead of his brother Judas . But when Bacchides gat knowledge thereof , he sought for to slay him Then Jonathan , and Simon his brother , and all that were with him , perceiving that , fled into the wilderness of Thecoe , and pitched their tents by the water of the pool Asphar . Which when Bacchides understood , he came near to Jordan with all his host upon the sabbath day . Now Jonathan had sent his brother John , a captain of the people , to pray his friends the Nabathites , that they might leave with them their carriage , which was much . But the children of Jambri came out of Medaba , and took John , and all that he had , and went their way with it . After this came word to Jonathan and Simon his brother , that the children of Jambri made a great marriage , and were bringing the bride from Nadabatha with a great train , as being the daughter of one of the great princes of Chanaan . Therefore they remembered John their brother , and went up , and hid themselves under the covert of the mountain : Where they lifted up their eyes , and looked , and , behold , there was much ado and great carriage : and the bridegroom came forth , and his friends and brethren , to meet them with drums , and instruments of musick , and many weapons . Then Jonathan and they that were with him rose up against them from the place where they lay in ambush , and made a slaughter of them in such sort , as many fell down dead , and the remnant fled into the mountain , and they took all their spoils . Thus was the marriage turned into mourning , and the noise of their melody into lamentation . So when they had avenged fully the blood of their brother , they turned again to the marsh of Jordan . Now when Bacchides heard hereof , he came on the sabbath day unto the banks of Jordan with a great power . Then Jonathan said to his company , Let us go up now and fight for our lives , for it standeth not with us to day , as in time past : For , behold , the battle is before us and behind us , and the water of Jordan on this side and that side , the marsh likewise and wood , neither is there place for us to turn aside . Wherefore cry ye now unto heaven , that ye may be delivered from the hand of your enemies . With that they joined battle , and Jonathan stretched forth his hand to smite Bacchides , but he turned back from him . Then Jonathan and they that were with him leapt into Jordan , and swam over unto the other bank : howbeit the other passed not over Jordan unto them . So there were slain of Bacchides' side that day about a thousand men . Afterward returned Bacchides to Jerusalem and repaired the strong cites in Judea ; the fort in Jericho , and Emmaus , and Bethhoron , and Bethel , and Thamnatha , Pharathoni , and Taphon , these did he strengthen with high walls , with gates and with bars . And in them he set a garrison , that they might work malice upon Israel . He fortified also the city Bethsura , and Gazera , and the tower , and put forces in them , and provision of victuals . Besides , he took the chief men's sons in the country for hostages , and put them into the tower at Jerusalem to be kept . Moreover in the hundred fifty and third year , in the second month , Alcimus commanded that the wall of the inner court of the sanctuary should be pulled down ; he pulled down also the works of the prophets And as he began to pull down , even at that time was Alcimus plagued , and his enterprizes hindered : for his mouth was stopped , and he was taken with a palsy , so that he could no more speak any thing , nor give order concerning his house . So Alcimus died at that time with great torment . Now when Bacchides saw that Alcimus was dead , he returned to the king : whereupon the land of Judea was in rest two years . Then all the ungodly men held a council , saying , Behold , Jonathan and his company are at ease , and dwell without care : now therefore we will bring Bacchides hither , who shall take them all in one night . So they went and consulted with him . Then removed he , and came with a great host , and sent letters privily to his adherents in Judea , that they should take Jonathan and those that were with him : howbeit they could not , because their counsel was known unto them . Wherefore they took of the men of the country , that were authors of that mischief , about fifty persons , and slew them . Afterward Jonathan , and Simon , and they that were with him , got them away to Bethbasi , which is in the wilderness , and they repaired the decays thereof , and made it strong . Which thing when Bacchides knew , he gathered together all his host , and sent word to them that were of Judea . Then went he and laid siege against Bethbasi ; and they fought against it a long season and made engines of war . But Jonathan left his brother Simon in the city , and went forth himself into the country , and with a certain number went he forth . And he smote Odonarkes and his brethren , and the children of Phasiron in their tent . And when he began to smite them , and came up with his forces , Simon and his company went out of the city , and burned up the engines of war , And fought against Bacchides , who was discomfited by them , and they afflicted him sore : for his counsel and travail was in vain . Wherefore he was very wroth at the wicked men that gave him counsel to come into the country , inasmuch as he slew many of them , and purposed to return into his own country . Whereof when Jonathan had knowledge , he sent ambassadors unto him , to the end he should make peace with him , and deliver them the prisoners . Which thing he accepted , and did according to his demands , and sware unto him that he would never do him harm all the days of his life . When therefore he had restored unto him the prisoners that he had taken aforetime out of the land of Judea , he returned and went his way into his own land , neither came he any more into their borders . Thus the sword ceased from Israel : but Jonathan dwelt at Machmas , and began to govern the people ; and he destroyed the ungodly men out of Israel . In the hundred and sixtieth year Alexander , the son of Antiochus surnamed Epiphanes , went up and took Ptolemais : for the people had received him , by means whereof he reigned there , Now when king Demetrius heard thereof , he gathered together an exceeding great host , and went forth against him to fight . Moreover Demetrius sent letters unto Jonathan with loving words , so as he magnified him . For said he , Let us first make peace with him , before he join with Alexander against us : Else he will remember all the evils that we have done against him , and against his brethren and his people . Wherefore he gave him authority to gather together an host , and to provide weapons , that he might aid him in battle : he commanded also that the hostages that were in the tower should be delivered him . Then came Jonathan to Jerusalem , and read the letters in the audience of all the people , and of them that were in the tower : Who were sore afraid , when they heard that the king had given him authority to gather together an host . Whereupon they of the tower delivered their hostages unto Jonathan , and he delivered them unto their parents . This done , Jonathan settled himself in Jerusalem , and began to build and repair the city . And he commanded the workmen to build the walls and the mount Sion and about with square stones for fortification ; and they did so . Then the strangers , that were in the fortresses which Bacchides had built , fled away ; Insomuch as every man left his place , and went into his own country . Only at Bethsura certain of those that had forsaken the law and the commandments remained still : for it was their place of refuge . Now when king Alexander had heard what promises Demetrius had sent unto Jonathan : when also it was told him of the battles and noble acts which he and his brethren had done , and of the pains that they had endured , He said , Shall we find such another man ? now therefore we will make him our friend and confederate . Upon this he wrote a letter , and sent it unto him , according to these words , saying , King Alexander to his brother Jonathan sendeth greeting : We have heard of thee , that thou art a man of great power , and meet to be our friend . Wherefore now this day we ordain thee to be the high priest of thy nation , and to be called the king's friend ; ( and therewithal he sent him a purple robe and a crown of gold : ) and require thee to take our part , and keep friendship with us . So in the seventh month of the hundred and sixtieth year , at the feast of the tabernacles , Jonathan put on the holy robe , and gathered together forces , and provided much armour . Whereof when Demetrius heard , he was very sorry , and said , What have we done , that Alexander hath prevented us in making amity with the Jews to strengthen himself ? I also will write unto them words of encouragement , and promise them dignities and gifts , that I may have their aid . He sent unto them therefore to this effect : King Demetrius unto the people of the Jews sendeth greeting : Whereas ye have kept covenants with us , and continued in our friendship , not joining yourselves with our enemies , we have heard hereof , and are glad . Wherefore now continue ye still to be faithful unto us , and we will well recompense you for the things ye do in our behalf , And will grant you many immunities , and give you rewards . And now do I free you , and for your sake I release all the Jews , from tributes , and from the customs of salt , and from crown taxes , And from that which appertaineth unto me to receive for the third part or the seed , and the half of the fruit of the trees , I release it from this day forth , so that they shall not be taken of the land of Judea , nor of the three governments which are added thereunto out of the country of Samaria and Galilee , from this day forth for evermore . Let Jerusalem also be holy and free , with the borders thereof , both from tenths and tributes . And as for the tower which is at Jerusalem , I yield up authority over it , and give the high priest , that he may set in it such men as he shall choose to keep it . Moreover I freely set at liberty every one of the Jews , that were carried captives out of the land of Judea into any part of my kingdom , and I will that all my officers remit the tributes even of their cattle . Furthermore I will that all the feasts , and sabbaths , and new moons , and solemn days , and the three days before the feast , and the three days after the feast shall be all of immunity and freedom for all the Jews in my realm . Also no man shall have authority to meddle with or to molest any of them in any matter . I will further , that there be enrolled among the king's forces about thirty thousand men of the Jews , unto whom pay shall be given , as belongeth to all king's forces . And of them some shall be placed in the king's strong holds , of whom also some shall be set over the affairs of the kingdom , which are of trust : and I will that their overseers and governors be of themselves , and that they live after their own laws , even as the king hath commanded in the land of Judea . And concerning the three governments that are added to Judea from the country of Samaria , let them be joined with Judea , that they may be reckoned to be under one , nor bound to obey other authority than the high priest's . As for Ptolemais , and the land pertaining thereto , I give it as a free gift to the sanctuary at Jerusalem for the necessary expences of the sanctuary . Moreover I give every year fifteen thousand shekels of silver out of the king's accounts from the places appertaining . And all the overplus , which the officers payed not in as in former time , from henceforth shall be given toward the works of the temple . And beside this , the five thousand shekels of silver , which they took from the uses of the temple out of the accounts year by year , even those things shall be released , because they appertain to the priests that minister . And whosoever they be that flee unto the temple at Jerusalem , or be within the liberties hereof , being indebted unto the king , or for any other matter , let them be at liberty , and all that they have in my realm . For the building also and repairing of the works of the sanctuary expences shall be given of the king's accounts . Yea , and for the building of the walls of Jerusalem , and the fortifying thereof round about , expences shall be given out of the king's accounts , as also for the building of the walls in Judea . Now when Jonathan and the people heard these words , they gave no credit unto them , nor received them , because they remembered the great evil that he had done in Israel ; for he had afflicted them very sore . But with Alexander they were well pleased , because he was the first that entreated of true peace with them , and they were confederate with him always . Then gathered king Alexander great forces , and camped over against Demetrius . And after the two kings had joined battle , Demetrius' host fled : but Alexander followed after him , and prevailed against them . And he continued the battle very sore until the sun went down : and that day was Demetrius slain . Afterward Alexander sent ambassadors to Ptolemee king of Egypt with a message to this effect : Forasmuch as I am come again to my realm , and am set in the throne of my progenitors , and have gotten the dominion , and overthrown Demetrius , and recovered our country ; For after I had joined battle with him , both he and his host was discomfited by us , so that we sit in the throne of his kingdom : Now therefore let us make a league of amity together , and give me now thy daughter to wife : and I will be thy son in law , and will give both thee and her as according to thy dignity . Then Ptolemee the king gave answer , saying , Happy be the day wherein thou didst return into the land of thy fathers , and satest in the throne of their kingdom . And now will I do to thee , as thou hast written : meet me therefore at Ptolemais , that we may see one another ; for I will marry my daughter to thee according to thy desire . So Ptolemee went out of Egypt with his daughter Cleopatra , and they came unto Ptolemais in the hundred threescore and second year : Where king Alexander meeting him , he gave unto him his daughter Cleopatra , and celebrated her marriage at Ptolemais with great glory , as the manner of kings is . Now king Alexander had written unto Jonathan , that he should come and meet him . Who thereupon went honourably to Ptolemais , where he met the two kings , and gave them and their friends silver and gold , and many presents , and found favour in their sight . At that time certain pestilent fellows of Israel , men of a wicked life , assembled themselves against him , to accuse him : but the king would not hear them . Yea more than that , the king commanded to take off his garments , and clothe him in purple : and they did so . And he made him sit by himself , and said into his princes , Go with him into the midst of the city , and make proclamation , that no man complain against him of any matter , and that no man trouble him for any manner of cause . Now when his accusers saw that he was honored according to the proclamation , and clothed in purple , they fled all away . So the king honoured him , and wrote him among his chief friends , and made him a duke , and partaker of his dominion . Afterward Jonathan returned to Jerusalem with peace and gladness . Furthermore in the ; hundred threescore and fifth year came Demetrius son of Demetrius out of Crete into the land of his fathers : Whereof when king Alexander heard tell , he was right sorry , and returned into Antioch . Then Demetrius made Apollonius the governor of Celosyria his general , who gathered together a great host , and camped in Jamnia , and sent unto Jonathan the high priest , saying , Thou alone liftest up thyself against us , and I am laughed to scorn for thy sake , and reproached : and why dost thou vaunt thy power against us in the mountains ? Now therefore , if thou trustest in thine own strength , come down to us into the plain field , and there let us try the matter together : for with me is the power of the cities . Ask and learn who I am , and the rest that take our part , and they shall tell thee that thy foot is not able to to flight in their own land . Wherefore now thou shalt not be able to abide the horsemen and so great a power in the plain , where is neither stone nor flint , nor place to flee unto . So when Jonathan heard these words of Apollonius , he was moved in his mind , and choosing ten thousand men he went out of Jerusalem , where Simon his brother met him for to help him . And he pitched his tents against Joppa : but ; they of Joppa shut him out of the city , because Apollonius had a garrison there . Then Jonathan laid siege unto it : whereupon they of the city let him in for fear : and so Jonathan won Joppa . Whereof when Apollonius heard , he took three thousand horsemen , with a great host of footmen , and went to Azotus as one that journeyed , and therewithal drew him forth into the plain . because he had a great number of horsemen , in whom he put his trust . Then Jonathan followed after him to Azotus , where the armies joined battle . Now Apollonius had left a thousand horsemen in ambush . And Jonathan knew that there was an ambushment behind him ; for they had compassed in his host , and cast darts at the people , from morning till evening . But the people stood still , as Jonathan had commanded them : and so the enemies' horses were tired . Then brought Simon forth his host , and set them against the footmen , ( for the horsemen were spent ) who were discomfited by him , and fled . The horsemen also , being scattered in the field , fled to Azotus , and went into Bethdagon , their idol's temple , for safety . But Jonathan set fire on Azotus , and the cities round about it , and took their spoils ; and the temple of Dagon , with them that were fled into it , he burned with fire . Thus there were burned and slain with the sword well nigh eight thousand men . And from thence Jonathan removed his host , and camped against Ascalon , where the men of the city came forth , and met him with great pomp . After this returned Jonathan and his host unto Jerusalem , having any spoils . Now when king ALexander heard these things , he honoured Jonathan yet more . And sent him a buckle of gold , as the use is to be given to such as are of the king's blood : he gave him also Accaron with the borders thereof in possession . And the king of Egypt gathered together a great host , like the sand that lieth upon the sea shore , and many ships , and went about through deceit to get Alexander's kingdom , and join it to his own . Whereupon he took his journey into Spain in peaceable manner , so as they of the cities opened unto him , and met him : for king Alexander had commanded them so to do , because he was his brother in law . Now as Ptolemee entered into the cities , he set in every one of them a garrison of soldiers to keep it . And when he came near to Azotus , they shewed him the temple of Dagon that was burnt , and Azotus and the suburbs thereof that were destroyed , and the bodies that were cast abroad and them that he had burnt in the battle ; for they had made heaps of them by the way where he should pass . Also they told the king whatsoever Jonathan had done , to the intent he might blame him : but the king held his peace . Then Jonathan met the king with great pomp at Joppa , where they saluted one another , and lodged . Afterward Jonathan , when he had gone with the king to the river called Eleutherus , returned again to Jerusalem . King Ptolemee therefore , having gotten the dominion of the cities by the sea unto Seleucia upon the sea coast , imagined wicked counsels against Alexander . Whereupon he sent ambasadors unto king Demetrius , saying , Come , let us make a league betwixt us , and I will give thee my daughter whom Alexander hath , and thou shalt reign in thy father's kingdom : For I repent that I gave my daughter unto him , for he sought to slay me . Thus did he slander him , because he was desirous of his kingdom . Wherefore he took his daughter from him , and gave her to Demetrius , and forsook Alexander , so that their hatred was openly known . Then Ptolemee entered into Antioch , where he set two crowns upon his head , the crown of Asia , and of Egypt . In the mean season was king Alexander in Cilicia , because those that dwelt in those parts had revolted from him . But when Alexander heard of this , he came to war against him : whereupon king Ptolemee brought forth his host , and met him with a mighty power , and put him to flight . So Alexander fled into Arabia there to be defended ; but king Ptolemee was exalted : For Zabdiel the Arabian took off Alexander's head , and sent it unto Ptolemee . King Ptolemee also died the third day after , and they that were in the strong holds were slain one of another . By this means Demetrius reigned in the hundred threescore and seventh year . At the same time Jonathan gathered together them that were in Judea to take the tower that was in Jerusalem : and he made many engines of war against it . Then came ungodly persons , who hated their own people , went unto the king , and told him that Jonathan besieged the tower , Whereof when he heard , he was angry , and immediately removing , he came to Ptolemais , and wrote unto Jonathan , that he should not lay siege to the tower , but come and speak with him at Ptolemais in great haste . Nevertheless Jonathan , when he heard this , commanded to besiege it still : and he chose certain of the elders of Israel and the priests , and put himself in peril ; And took silver and gold , and raiment , and divers presents besides , and went to Ptolemais unto the king , where he found favour in his sight . And though certain ungodly men of the people had made complaints against him , Yet the king entreated him as his predecessors had done before , and promoted him in the sight of all his friends , And confirmed him in the high priesthood , and in all the honours that he had before , and gave him preeminence among his chief friends . Then Jonathan desired the king , that he would make Judea free from tribute , as also the three governments , with the country of Samaria ; and he promised him three hundred talents . So the king consented , and wrote letters unto Jonathan of all these things after this manner : King Demetrius unto his brother Jonathan , and unto the nation of the Jews , sendeth greeting : We send you here a copy of the letter which we did write unto our cousin Lasthenes concerning you , that ye might see it . King Demetrius unto his father Lasthenes sendeth greeting : We are determined to do good to the people of the Jews , who are our friends , and keep covenants with us , because of their good will toward us . Wherefore we have ratified unto them the borders of Judea , with the three governments of Apherema and Lydda and Ramathem , that are added unto Judea from the country of Samaria , and all things appertaining unto them , for all such as do sacrifice in Jerusalem , instead of the payments which the king received of them yearly aforetime out of the fruits of the earth and of trees . And as for other things that belong unto us , of the tithes and customs pertaining unto us , as also the saltpits , and the crown taxes , which are due unto us , we discharge them of them all for their relief . And nothing hereof shall be revoked from this time forth for ever . Now therefore see that thou make a copy of these things , and let it be delivered unto Jonathan , and set upon the holy mount in a conspicuous place . After this , when king Demetrius saw that the land was quiet before him , and that no resistance was made against him , he sent away all his forces , every one to his own place , except certain bands of strangers , whom he had gathered from the isles of the heathen : wherefore all the forces of his fathers hated him . Moreover there was one Tryphon , that had been of Alexander's part afore , who , seeing that all the host murmured against Demetrius , went to Simalcue the Arabian that brought up Antiochus the young son of Alexander , And lay sore upon him to deliver him this young Antiochus , that he might reign in his father's stead : he told him therefore all that Demetrius had done , and how his men of war were at enmity with him , and there he remained a long season . In the mean time Jonathan sent unto king Demetrius , that he would cast those of the tower out of Jerusalem , and those also in the fortresses : for they fought against Israel . So Demetrius sent unto Jonathan , saying , I will not only do this for thee and thy people , but I will greatly honour thee and thy nation , if opportunity serve . Now therefore thou shalt do well , if thou send me men to help me ; for all my forces are gone from me . Upon this Jonathan sent him three thousand strong men unto Antioch : and when they came to the king , the king was very glad of their coming . Howbeit they that were of the city gathered themselves together into the midst of the city , to the number of an hundred and twenty thousand men , and would have slain the king . Wherefore the king fled into the court , but they of the city kept the passages of the city , and began to fight . Then the king called to the Jews for help , who came unto him all at once , and dispersing themselves through the city slew that day in the city to the number of an hundred thousand . Also they set fire on the city , and gat many spoils that day , and delivered the king . So when they of the city saw that the Jews had got the city as they would , their courage was abated : wherefore they made supplication to the king , and cried , saying , Grant us peace , and let the Jews cease from assaulting us and the city . With that they cast away their weapons , and made peace ; and the Jews were honoured in the sight of the king , and in the sight of all that were in his realm ; and they returned to Jerusalem , having great spoils . So king Demetrius sat on the throne of his kingdom , and the land was quiet before him . Nevertheless he dissembled in all that ever he spake , and estranged himself from Jonathan , neither rewarded he him according to the benefits which he had received of him , but troubled him very sore . After this returned Tryphon , and with him the young child Antiochus , who reigned , and was crowned . Then there gathered unto him all the men of war , whom Demetrius had put away , and they fought against Demetrius , who turned his back and fled . Moreover Tryphon took the elephants , and won Antioch . At that time young Antiochus wrote unto Jonathan , saying , I confirm thee in the high priesthood , and appoint thee ruler over the four governments , and to be one of the king's friends . Upon this he sent him golden vessels to be served in , and gave him leave to drink in gold , and to be clothed in purple , and to wear a golden buckle . His brother Simon also he made captain from the place called The ladder of Tyrus unto the borders of Egypt . Then Jonathan went forth , and passed through the cities beyond the water , and all the forces of Syria gathered themselves unto him for to help him : and when he came to Ascalon , they of the city met him honourably . From whence he went to Gaza , but they of Gaza shut him out ; wherefore he laid siege unto it , and burned the suburbs thereof with fire , and spoiled them . Afterward , when they of Gaza made supplication unto Jonathan , he made peace with them , and took the sons of their chief men for hostages , and sent them to Jerusalem , and passed through the country unto Damascus . Now when Jonathan heard that Demetrius' princes were come to Cades , which is in Galilee , with a great power , purposing to remove him out of the country , He went to meet them , and left Simon his brother in the country . Then Simon encamped against Bethsura and fought against it a long season , and shut it up : But they desired to have peace with him , which he granted them , and then put them out from thence , and took the city , and set a garrison in it . As for Jonathan and his host , they pitched at the water of Gennesar , from whence betimes in the morning they gat them to the plain of Nasor . And , behold , the host of strangers met them in the plain , who , having laid men in ambush for him in the mountains , came themselves over against him . So when they that lay in ambush rose out of their places and joined battle , all that were of Jonathan's side fled ; Insomuch as there was not one of them left , except Mattathias the son of Absalom , and Judas the son of Calphi , the captains of the host . Then Jonathan rent his clothes , and cast earth upon his head , and prayed . Afterwards turning again to battle , he put them to flight , and so they ran away . Now when his own men that were fled saw this , they turned again unto him , and with him pursued them to Cades , even unto their own tents , and there they camped . So there were slain of the heathen that day about three thousand men : but Jonathan returned to Jerusalem . Now when Jonathan saw that time served him , he chose certain men , and sent them to Rome , for to confirm and renew the friendship that they had with them . He sent letters also to the Lacedemonians , and to other places , for the same purpose . So they went unto Rome , and entered into the senate , and said , Jonathan the high priest , and the people of the Jews , sent us unto you , to the end ye should renew the friendship , which ye had with them , and league , as in former time . Upon this the Romans gave them letters unto the governors of every place that they should bring them into the land of Judea peaceably . And this is the copy of the letters which Jonathan wrote to the Lacedemonians : Jonathan the high priest , and the elders of the nation , and the priests , and the other of the Jews , unto the Lacedemonians their brethren send greeting : There were letters sent in times past unto Onias the high priest from Darius , who reigned then among you , to signify that ye are our brethren , as the copy here underwritten doth specify . At which time Onias entreated the ambassador that was sent honourably , and received the letters , wherein declaration was made of the league and friendship . Therefore we also , albeit we need none of these things , that we have the holy books of scripture in our hands to comfort us , Have nevertheless attempted to send unto you for the renewing of brotherhood and friendship , lest we should become strangers unto you altogether : for there is a long time passed since ye sent unto us . We therefore at all times without ceasing , both in our feasts , and other convenient days , do remember you in the sacrifices which we offer , and in our prayers , as reason is , and as it becometh us to think upon our brethren : And we are right glad of your honour . As for ourselves , we have had great troubles and wars on every side , forsomuch as the kings that are round about us have fought against us . Howbeit we would not be troublesome unto you , nor to others of our confederates and friends , in these wars : For we have help from heaven that succoureth us , so as we are delivered from our enemies , and our enemies are brought under foot . For this cause we chose Numenius the son of Antiochus , and Antipater he son of Jason , and sent them unto the Romans , to renew the amity that we had with them , and the former league . We commanded them also to go unto you , and to salute and to deliver you our letters concerning the renewing of our brotherhood . Wherefore now ye shall do well to give us an answer thereto . And this is the copy of the letters which Oniares sent . Areus king of the Lacedemonians to Onias the high priest , greeting : It is found in writing , that the Lacedemonians and Jews are brethren , and that they are of the stock of Abraham : Now therefore , since this is come to our knowledge , ye shall do well to write unto us of your prosperity . We do write back again to you , that your cattle and goods are our's , and our's are your's We do command therefore our ambassadors to make report unto you on this wise . Now when Jonathan heard that Demebius' princes were come to fight against him with a greater host than afore , He removed from Jerusalem , and met them in the land of Amathis : for he gave them no respite to enter his country . He sent spies also unto their tents , who came again , and told him that they were appointed to come upon them in the night season . Wherefore so soon as the sun was down , Jonathan commanded his men to watch , and to be in arms , that all the night long they might be ready to fight : also he sent forth centinels round about the host . But when the adversaries heard that Jonathan and his men were ready for battle , they feared , and trembled in their hearts , and they kindled fires in their camp . Howbeit Jonathan and his company knew it not till the morning : for they saw the lights burning . Then Jonathan pursued after them , but overtook them not : for they were gone over the river Eleutherus . Wherefore Jonathan turned to the Arabians , who were called Zabadeans , and smote them , and took their spoils . And removing thence , he came to Damascus , and so passed through all the country , Simon also went forth , and passed through the country unto Ascalon , and the holds there adjoining , from whence he turned aside to Joppa , and won it . For he had heard that they would deliver the hold unto them that took Demetrius' part ; wherefore he set a garrison there to keep it . After this came Jonathan home again , and calling the elders of the people together , he consulted with them about building strong holds in Judea , And making the walls of Jerusalem higher , and raising a great mount between the tower and the city , for to separate it from the city , that so it might be alone , that men might neither sell nor buy in it . Upon this they came together to build up the city , forasmuch as part of the wall toward the brook on the east side was fallen down , and they repaired that which was called Caphenatha . Simon also set up Adida in Sephela , and made it strong with gates and bars . Now Tryphon went about to get the kingdom of Asia , and to kill Antiochus the king , that he might set the crown upon his own head . Howbeit he was afraid that Jonathan would not suffer him , and that he would fight against him ; wherefore he sought a way how to take Jonathan , that he might kill him . So he removed , and came to Bethsan . Then Jonathan went out to meet him with forty thousand men chosen for the battle , and came to Bethsan . Now when Tryphon saw Jonathan came with so great a force , he durst not stretch his hand against him ; But received him honourably , and commended him unto all his friends , and gave him gifts , and commanded his men of war to be as obedient unto him , as to himself . Unto Jonathan also he said , Why hast thou brought all this people to so great trouble , seeing there is no war betwixt us ? Therefore send them now home again , and choose a few men to wait on thee , and come thou with me to Ptolemais , for I will give it thee , and the rest of the strong holds and forces , and all that have any charge : as for me , I will return and depart : for this is the cause of my coming . So Jonathan believing him did as he bade him , and sent away his host , who went into the land of Judea . And with himself he retained but three thousand men , of whom he sent two thousand into Galilee , and one thousand went with him . Now as soon as Jonathan entered into Ptolemais , they of Ptolemais shut the gates and took him , and all them that came with him they slew with the sword . Then sent Tryphon an host of footmen and horsemen into Galilee , and into the great plain , to destroy all Jonathan's company . But when they knew that Jonathan and they that were with him were taken and slain , they encouraged one another ; and went close together , prepared to fight . They therefore that followed upon them , perceiving that they were ready to fight for their lives , turned back again . Whereupon they all came into the land of Judea peaceably , and there they bewailed Jonathan , and them that were with him , and they were sore afraid ; wherefore all Israel made great lamentation . Then all the heathen that were round about then sought to destroy them : for said they , They have no captain , nor any to help them : now therefore let us make war upon them , and take away their memorial from among men . Now when Simon heard that Tryphon had gathered together a great host to invade the land of Judea , and destroy it , And saw that the people was in great trembling and fear , he went up to Jerusalem , and gathered the people together , And gave them exhortation , saying , Ye yourselves know what great things I , and my brethren , and my father's house , have done for the laws and the sanctuary , the battles also and troubles which we have seen . By reason whereof all my brethren are slain for Israel's sake , and I am left alone . Now therefore be it far from me , that I should spare mine own life in any time of trouble : for I am no better than my brethren . Doubtless I will avenge my nation , and the sanctuary , and our wives , and our children : for all the heathen are gathered to destroy us of very malice . Now as soon as the people heard these words , their spirit revived . And they answered with a loud voice , saying , Thou shalt be our leader instead of Judas and Jonathan thy brother . Fight thou our battles , and whatsoever , thou commandest us , that will we do . So then he gathered together all the men of war , and made haste to finish the walls of Jerusalem , and he fortified it round about . Also he sent Jonathan the son of Absolom , and with him a great power , to Joppa : who casting out them that were therein remained there in it . So Tryphon removed from Ptolemaus with a great power to invade the land of Judea , and Jonathan was with him in ward . But Simon pitched his tents at Adida , over against the plain . Now when Tryphon knew that Simon was risen up instead of his brother Jonathan , and meant to join battle with him , he sent messengers unto him , saying , Whereas we have Jonathan thy brother in hold , it is for money that he is owing unto the king's treasure , concerning the business that was committed unto him . Wherefore now send an hundred talents of silver , and two of his sons for hostages , that when he is at liberty he may not revolt from us , and we will let him go . Hereupon Simon , albeit he perceived that they spake deceitfully unto him yet sent he the money and the children , lest peradventure he should procure to himself great hatred of the people : Who might have said , Because I sent him not the money and the children , therefore is Jonathan dead . So he sent them the children and the hundred talents : howbeit Tryphon dissembled neither would he let Jonathan go . And after this came Tryphon to invade the land , and destroy it , going round about by the way that leadeth unto Adora : but Simon and his host marched against him in every place , wheresoever he went . Now they that were in the tower sent messengers unto Tryphon , to the end that he should hasten his coming unto them by the wilderness , and send them victuals . Wherefore Tryphon made ready all his horsemen to come that night : but there fell a very great snow , by reason whereof he came not . So he departed , and came into the country of Galaad . And when he came near to Bascama he slew Jonathan , who was buried there . Afterward Tryphon returned and went into his own land . Then sent Simon , and took the bones of Jonathan his brother , and buried them in Modin , the city of his fathers . And all Israel made great lamentation for him , and bewailed him many days . Simon also built a monument upon the sepulchre of his father and his brethren , and raised it aloft to the sight , with hewn stone behind and before . Moreover he set up seven pyramids , one against another , for his father , and his mother , and his four brethren . And in these he made cunning devices , about the which he set great pillars , and upon the pillars he made all their armour for a perpetual memory , and by the armour ships carved , that they might be seen of all that sail on the sea . This is the sepulchre which he made at Modin , and it standeth yet unto this day . Now Tryphon dealt deceitfully with the young king Antiochus , and slew him . And he reigned in his stead , and crowned himself king of Asia , and brought a great calamity upon the land . Then Simon built up the strong holds in Judea , and fenced them about with high towers , and great walls , and gates , and bars , and laid up victuals therein . Moreover Simon chose men , and sent to king Demetrius , to the end he should give the land an immunity , because all that Tryphon did was to spoil . Unto whom king Demetrius answered and wrote after this manner : King Demetrius unto Simon the high priest , and friend of kings , as also unto the elders and nation of the Jews , sendeth greeting : The golden crown , and the scarlet robe , which ye sent unto us , we have received : and we are ready to make a stedfast peace with you , yea , and to write unto our officers , to confirm the immunities which we have granted . And whatsoever covenants we have made with you shall stand ; and the strong holds , which ye have builded , shall be your own . As for any oversight or fault committed unto this day , we forgive it , and the crown tax also , which ye owe us : and if there were any other tribute paid in Jerusalem , it shall no more be paid . And look who are meet among you to be in our court , let then be enrolled , and let there be peace betwixt us . Thus the yoke of the heathen was taken away from Israel in the hundred and seventieth year . Then the people of Israel began to write in their instruments and contracts , In the first year of Simon the high priest , the governor and leader of the Jews . In those days Simon camped against Gaza and besieged it round about ; he made also an engine of war , and set it by the city , and battered a certain tower , and took it . And they that were in the engine leaped into the city ; whereupon there was a great uproar in the city : Insomuch as the people of the city rent their clothes , and climbed upon the walls with their wives and children , and cried with a loud voice , beseeching Simon to grant them peace . And they said , Deal not with us according to our wickedness , but according to thy mercy . So Simon was appeased toward them , and fought no more against them , but put them out of the city , and cleansed the houses wherein the idols were , and so entered into it with songs and thanksgiving . Yea , he put all uncleanness out of it , and placed such men there as would keep the law , and made it stronger than it was before , and built therein a dwellingplace for himself . They also of the tower in Jerusalem were kept so strait , that they could neither come forth , nor go into the country , nor buy , nor sell : wherefore they were in great distress for want of victuals , and a great number of them perished through famine . Then cried they to Simon , beseeching him to be at one with them : which thing he granted them ; and when he had put them out from thence , he cleansed the tower from pollutions : And entered into it the three and twentieth day of the second month in the hundred seventy and first year , with thanksgiving , and branches of palm trees , and with harps , and cymbals , and with viols , and hymns , and songs : because there was destroyed a great enemy out of Israel . He ordained also that that day should be kept every year with gladness . Moreover the hill of the temple that was by the tower he made stronger than it was , and there he dwelt himself with his company . And when Simon saw that John his son was a valiant man , he made him captain of all the hosts ; and he dwelt in Gazera . Now in the hundred threescore and twelfth year king Demetrius gathered his forces together , and went into Media to get him help to fight against Tryphone . But when Arsaces , the king of Persia and Media , heard that Demetrius was entered within his borders , he sent one of his princes to take him alive : Who went and smote the host of Demetrius , and took him , and brought him to Arsaces , by whom he was put in ward . As for the land of Judea , that was quiet all the days of Simon ; for he sought the good of his nation in such wise , as that evermore his authority and honour pleased them well . And as he was honourable in all his acts , so in this , that he took Joppa for an haven , and made an entrance to the isles of the sea , And enlarged the bounds of his nation , and recovered the country , And gathered together a great number of captives , and had the dominion of Gazera , and Bethsura , and the tower , out of the which he took all uncleaness , neither was there any that resisted him . Then did they till their ground in peace , and the earth gave her increase , and the trees of the field their fruit . The ancient men sat all in the streets , communing together of good things , and the young men put on glorious and warlike apparel . He provided victuals for the cities , and set in them all manner of munition , so that his honourable name was renowned unto the end of the world . He made peace in the land , and Israel rejoiced with great joy : For every man sat under his vine and his fig tree , and there was none to fray them : Neither was there any left in the land to fight against them : yea , the kings themselves were overthrown in those days . Moreover he strengthened all those of his people that were brought low : the law he searched out ; and every contemner of the law and wicked person he took away . He beautified the sanctuary , and multiplied vessels of the temple . Now when it was heard at Rome , and as far as Sparta , that Jonathan was dead , they were very sorry . But as soon as they heard that his brother Simon was made high priest in his stead , and ruled the country , and the cities therein : They wrote unto him in tables of brass , to renew the friendship and league which they had made with Judas and Jonathan his brethren : Which writings were read before the congregation at Jerusalem . And this is the copy of the letters that the Lacedemonians sent ; The rulers of the Lacedemonians , with the city , unto Simon the high priest , and the elders , and priests , and residue of the people of the Jews , our brethren , send greeting : The ambassadors that were sent unto our people certified us of your glory and honour : wherefore we were glad of their coming , And did register the things that they spake in the council of the people in this manner ; Numenius son of Antiochus , and Antipater son of Jason , the Jews' ambassadors , came unto us to renew the friendship they had with us . And it pleased the people to entertain the men honourably , and to put the copy of their ambassage in publick records , to the end the people of the Lacedemonians might have a memorial thereof : furthermore we have written a copy thereof unto Simon the high priest . After this Simon sent Numenius to Rome with a great shield of gold of a thousand pound weight to confirm the league with them . Whereof when the people heard , they said , What thanks shall we give to Simon and his sons ? For he and his brethren and the house of his father have established Israel , and chased away in fight their enemies from them , and confirmed their liberty . So then they wrote it in tables of brass , which they set upon pillars in mount Sion : and this is the copy of the writing ; The eighteenth day of the month Elul , in the hundred threescore and twelfth year , being the third year of Simon the high priest , At Saramel in the great congregation of the priests , and people , and rulers of the nation , and elders of the country , were these things notified unto us . Forasmuch as oftentimes there have been wars in the country , wherein for the maintenance of their sanctuary , and the law , Simon the son of Mattathias , of the posterity of Jarib , together with his brethren , put themselves in jeopardy , and resisting the enemies of their nation did their nation great honour : ( For after that Jonathan , having gathered his nation together , and been their high priest , was added to his people , Their enemies prepared to invade their country , that they might destroy it , and lay hands on the sanctuary : At which time Simon rose up , and fought for his nation , and spent much of his own substance , and armed the valiant men of his nation and gave them wages , And fortified the cities of Judea , together with Bethsura , that lieth upon the borders of Judea , where the armour of the enemies had been before ; but he set a garrison of Jews there : Moreover he fortified Joppa , which lieth upon the sea , and Gazera , that bordereth upon Azotus , where the enemies had dwelt before : but he placed Jews there , and furnished them with all things convenient for the reparation thereof . ) The people therefore sang the acts of Simon , and unto what glory he thought to bring his nation , made him their governor and chief priest , because he had done all these things , and for the justice and faith which he kept to his nation , and for that he sought by all means to exalt his people . For in his time things prospered in his hands , so that the heathen were taken out of their country , and they also that were in the city of David in Jerusalem , who had made themselves a tower , out of which they issued , and polluted all about the sanctuary , and did much hurt in the holy place : But he placed Jews therein . and fortified it for the safety of the country and the city , and raised up the walls of Jerusalem . King Demetrius also confirmed him in the high priesthood according to those things , And made him one of his friends , and honoured him with great honour . For he had heard say , that the Romans had called the Jews their friends and confederates and brethren ; and that they had entertained the ambassadors of Simon honourably ; Also that the Jews and priests were well pleased that Simon should be their governor and high priest for ever , until there should arise a faithful prophet ; Moreover that he should be their captain , and should take charge of the sanctuary , to set them over their works , and over the country , and over the armour , and over the fortresses , that , I say , he should take charge of the sanctuary ; Beside this , that he should be obeyed of every man , and that all the writings in the country should be made in his name , and that he should be clothed in purple , and wear gold : Also that it should be lawful for none of the people or priests to break any of these things , or to gainsay his words , or to gather an assembly in the country without him , or to be clothed in purple , or wear a buckle of gold ; And whosoever should do otherwise , or break any of these things , he should be punished . Thus it liked all the people to deal with Simon , and to do as hath been said . Then Simon accepted hereof , and was well pleased to be high priest , and captain and governor of the Jews and priests , and to defend them all . So they commanded that this writing should be put in tables of brass , and that they should be set up within the compass of the sanctuary in a conspicuous place ; Also that the copies thereof should be laid up in the treasury , to the end that Simon and his sons might have them . Moreover Antiochus son of Demetrius the king sent letters from the isles of the sea unto Simon the priest and prince of the Jews , and to all the people ; The contents whereof were these : King Antiochus to Simon the high priest and prince of his nation , and to the people of the Jews , greeting : Forasmuch as certain pestilent men have usurped the kingdom of our fathers , and my purpose is to challenge it again , that I may restore it to the old estate , and to that end have gathered a multitude of foreign soldiers together , and prepared ships of war ; My meaning also being to go through the country , that I may be avenged of them that have destroyed it , and made many cities in the kingdom desolate : Now therefore I confirm unto thee all the oblations which the kings before me granted thee , and whatsoever gifts besides they granted . I give thee leave also to coin money for thy country with thine own stamp . And as concerning Jerusalem and the sanctuary , let them be free ; and all the armour that thou hast made , and fortresses that thou hast built , and keepest in thine hands , let them remain unto thee . And if anything be , or shall be , owing to the king , let it be forgiven thee from this time forth for evermore . Furthermore , when we have obtained our kingdom , we will honour thee , and thy nation , and thy temple , with great honour , so that your honour shall be known throughout the world . In the hundred threescore and fourteenth year went Antiochus into the land of his fathers : at which time all the forces came together unto him , so that few were left with Tryphon . Wherefore being pursued by king Antiochus , he fled unto Dora , which lieth by the sea side : For he saw that troubles came upon him all at once , and that his forces had forsaken him . Then camped Antiochus against Dora , having with him an hundred and twenty thousand men of war , and eight thousand horsemen . And when he had compassed the city round about , and joined ships close to the town on the sea side , he vexed the city by land and by sea , neither suffered he any to go out or in . In the mean season came Numenius and his company from Rome , having letters to the kings and countries ; wherein were written these things : Lucius , consul of the Romans unto king Ptolemee , greeting : The Jews' ambassadors , our friends and confederates , came unto us to renew the old friendship and league , being sent from Simon the high priest , and from the people of the Jews : And they brought a shield of gold of a thousand pound . We thought it good therefore to write unto the kings and countries , that they should do them no harm , nor fight against them , their cities , or countries , nor yet aid their enemies against them . It seemed also good to us to receive the shield of them . If therefore there be any pestilent fellows , that have fled from their country unto you , deliver them unto Simon the high priest , that he may punish them according to their own law . The same things wrote he likewise unto Demetrius the king , and Attalus , to Ariarathes , and Arsaces , And to all the countries and to Sampsames , and the Lacedemonians , and to Delus , and Myndus , and Sicyon , and Caria , and Samos , and Pamphylia , and Lycia , and Halicarnassus , and Rhodus , and Aradus , and Cos , and Side , and Aradus , and Gortyna , and Cnidus , and Cyprus , and Cyrene . And the copy hereof they wrote to Simon the high priest . So Antiochus the king camped against Dora the second day , assaulting it continually , and making engines , by which means he shut up Tryphon , that he could neither go out nor in . At that time Simon sent him two thousand chosen men to aid him ; silver also , and gold , and much armour . Nevertheless he would not receive them , but brake all the covenants which he had made with him afore , and became strange unto him . Furthermore he sent unto him Athenobius , one of his friends , to commune with him , and say , Ye withhold Joppa and Gazera ; with the tower that is in Jerusalem , which are cities of my realm . The borders thereof ye have wasted , and done great hurt in the land , and got the dominion of many places within my kingdom . Now therefore deliver the cities which ye have taken , and the tributes of the places , whereof ye have gotten dominion without the borders of Judea : Or else give me for them five hundred talents of silver ; and for the harm that ye have done , and the tributes of the cities , other five hundred talents : if not , we will come and fight against you So Athenobius the king's friend came to Jerusalem : and when he saw the glory of Simon , and the cupboard of gold and silver plate , and his great attendance , he was astonished , and told him the king's message . Then answered Simon , and said unto him , We have neither taken other men's land , nor holden that which appertaineth to others , but the inheritance of our fathers , which our enemies had wrongfully in possession a certain time . Wherefore we , having opportunity , hold the inheritance of our fathers . And whereas thou demandest Joppa and Gazera , albeit they did great harm unto the people in our country , yet will we give thee an hundred talents for them . Hereunto Athenobius answered him not a word ; But returned in a rage to the king , and made report unto him of these speeches , and of the glory of Simon , and of all that he had seen : whereupon the king was exceeding wroth . In the mean time fled Tryphon by ship unto Orthosias . Then the king made Cendebeus captain of the sea coast , and gave him an host of footmen and horsemen , And commanded him to remove his host toward Judea ; also he commanded him to build up Cedron , and to fortify the gates , and to war against the people ; but as for the king himself , he pursued Tryphon . So Cendebeus came to Jamnia and began to provoke the people and to invade Judea , and to take the people prisoners , and slay them . And when he had built up Cedrou , he set horsemen there , and an host of footmen , to the end that issuing out they might make outroads upon the ways of Judea , as the king had commanded him . Then came up John from Gazera , and told Simon his father what Cendebeus had done . Wherefore Simon called his two eldest sons , Judas and John , and said unto them , I , and my brethren , and my father's house , have ever from my youth unto this day fought against the enemies of Israel ; and things have prospered so well in our hands , that we have delivered Israel oftentimes . But now I am old , and ye , by God's mercy , are of a sufficient age : be ye instead of me and my brother , and go and fight for our nation , and the help from heaven be with you . So he chose out of the country twenty thousand men of war with horsemen , who went out against Cendebeus , and rested that night at Modin . And when as they rose in the morning , and went into the plain , behold , a mighty great host both of footmen and horsemen came against them : howbeit there was a water brook betwixt them . So he and his people pitched over against them : and when he saw that the people were afraid to go over the water brook , he went first over himself , and then the men seeing him passed through after him . That done , he divided his men , and set the horsemen in the midst of the footmen : for the enemies' horsemen were very many . Then sounded they with the holy trumpets : whereupon Cendebeus and his host were put to flight , so that many of them were slain , and the remnant gat them to the strong hold . At that time was Judas John's brother wounded ; but John still followed after them , until he came to Cedron , which Cendebeus had built . So they fled even unto the towers in the fields of Azotus ; wherefore he burned it with fire : so that there were slain of them about two thousand men . Afterward he returned into the land of Judea in peace . Moreover in the plain of Jericho was Ptolemeus the son of Abubus made captain , and he had abundance of silver and gold : For he was the high priest's son in law . Wherefore his heart being lifted up , he thought to get the country to himself , and thereupon consulted deceitfully against Simon and his sons to destroy them . Now Simon was visiting the cities that were in the country , and taking care for the good ordering of them ; at which time he came down himself to Jericho with his sons , Mattathias and Judas , in the hundred threescore and seventeenth year , in the eleventh month , called Sabat : Where the son of Abubus receiving them deceitfully into a little hold , called Docus , which he had built , made them a great banquet : howbeit he had hid men there . So when Simon and his sons had drunk largely , Ptolemee and his men rose up , and took their weapons , and came upon Simon into the banqueting place , and slew him , and his two sons , and certain of his servants . In which doing he committed a great treachery , and recompensed evil for good . Then Ptolemee wrote these things , and sent to the king , that he should send him an host to aid him , and he would deliver him the country and cities . He sent others also to Gazera to kill John : and unto the tribunes he sent letters to come unto him , that he might give them silver , and gold , and rewards . And others he sent to take Jerusalem , and the mountain of the temple . Now one had run afore to Gazera and told John that his father and brethren were slain , and , quoth he , Ptolemee hath sent to slay thee also . Hereof when he heard , he was sore astonished : so he laid hands on them that were come to destroy him , and slew them ; for he knew that they sought to make him away . As concerning the rest of the acts of John , and his wars , and worthy deeds which he did , and the building of the walls which he made , and his doings , Behold , these are written in the chronicles of his priesthood , from the time he was made high priest after his father . . Public Domain http://paralleltext.info/data/ retrieved via Canonical Text Service http://cts.informatik.uni-leipzig.de/pbc/cts/ with CTS URN urn:cts:pbc:bible.parallel.eng.kingjames:_7