Luther Bible 1545 (English) Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545 Deepl English Translation The Apocrypha were not included as in Luther's Bible. Chapter headings etc. were included per orthodox Lutheran Bibles. Table of Books of the Bible Old Testament 1 Moses (Genesis) 2 Moses (Exodus) 3 Moses (Leviticus) 4 Moses (Numbers) 5 Moses (Deuteronomy) Josua (Joshua) Richter (Judges) Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Konige (1 Kings) 2 Konige (2 Kings) 1 Chronik (1 Chronicles) 2 Chronik (2 Chronicles) Esra (Ezra) Nehemia Esther Hiob (Job) Psalmen (Psalms) Spruche (Proverbs) Prediger (Ecclesiastes) Hohelied (Song of Songs) Jesaja (Isaiah) Jeremia (Jeremiah) Klagelieder (Lamentations) Hesekiel (Ezekiel) Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadja (Obadiah) Jona (Jonah) Micha (Micah) Nahum Habakuk (Habakkuk) Zephanja (Zephaniah) Haggai Sacharja (Zechariah) Maleachi (Malachi) New Testament Matthaus (Matthew) Markus (Mark) Lukas (Luke) Johannes (John) Apostelgeschichte (Acts) Romer (Romans) 1 Korinther (1 Coringhians) 2 Korinther (2 Corinthians) Galater (Galatians) Epheser (Ephesians) Philipper (Philippians) Kolosser (Colossians) 1 Thessalonicher (1 Thess.) 2 Thessalonicher (2 Thess.) 1 Timotheus (1 Timothy) 2 Timotheus (2 Timothy) Titus (Titus) Philemon (Philemon) Hebraer (Hebrews) Jakobus (James) 1 Petrus (1 Peter) 2 Petrus (2 Peter) 1 Johannes (1 John) 2 Johannes (2 John) 3 Johannes (3 John) Judas (Jude) Offenbarung (Revelation) The first book of Moses (Genesis) Chapter 1 Creation of the world. 1. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. 2. And the earth was desolate and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the Spirit of God was hovering upon the face of the waters. 3. And God said, Let there be light. And there was light. 4. And God saw that the light was good. Then God separated the light from the darkness. 5. And called the light Day, and the darkness Night. And the evening and the morning became the first day. 6. And God said, Let there be a firmament between the waters, and let there be a difference between the waters. 7. And God made the stronghold, and separated the waters that were under the stronghold from the waters that were above the stronghold. And it came to pass thus. 8. And God called the firmament heaven. And the evening and the morning became another day. 9. And God said, Let the waters under heaven be gathered together into divers places, that they may be seen that are dry. And it came to pass thus. 10. And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering of the waters He called Sea. And God saw that it was good. 11. And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, and herb yielding seed, and fruitful trees; that every man may bring forth fruit after his kind, and have his own seed with him in the earth. And it came to pass thus. 12. And the earth brought forth grass, and herbage that had her seed, every one after his kind, and trees that bare fruit, and had their own seed by themselves, every one after his kind. And God saw that it was good. 13. And the evening and the morning were the third day. 14. And God said, There shall be lights in the firmament of heaven, dividing day from night, and giving signs, times, days, and years; 15. And be lights in the firmament of heaven, that they may shine upon the earth. And it came to pass thus. 16. And God made two great lights, a great light to rule the day, and a small light to rule the night, and stars also. 17. And God set them in the firmament of heaven, to shine upon the earth. 18. And they ruled the day and the night, and separated the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. 19. And the evening and the morning were the fourth day. 20. And God said, Let the waters be filled with beasts of the air, and with living creatures, and with fowl that fly upon the earth under the firmament of heaven. 21. And God created great whales, and every living creature, and every beast that creepeth upon the waters after his kind, and every feathered fowl after his kind. And God saw that it was good. 22. And GOD blessed them, and said: Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters of the sea; and let the fowl multiply upon the earth. 23. And the evening and the morning were the fifth day. 24. And God said, Let the earth bring forth living creatures, every one after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth, every one after his kind. And it came to pass thus. 25. And God made the beasts of the earth after their kind, and the cattle after their kind, and all the creeping things of the earth after their kind. And God saw, that it was good. 26. And God said, Let us make man in our image, like unto us, having dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 27. And God created man in his image, in the image of God created he him; and created them male and female. 28. And God blessed them, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. 29. And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb that creepeth upon the face of the whole earth, and every fruitful tree, and every tree that creepeth, for your meat, 30. And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every creeping thing that hath life upon the earth, to eat every green herb. And it came to pass thus. 31. And God looked on all that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning became the sixth day. (Genesis) Chapter 2 Of the Sabbath, the essential pieces of man. Garden of Paradise. God's Commandment. Marriage. 1. So the heavens and the earth were finished with all their host. 2. And so on the seventh day God finished his works which he had made, and rested on the seventh day from all his works which he had made; 3. And blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it, because he had rested in it from all his works which God created and made. 4. So the heavens and the earth were created at the time that God the Lord made the earth and the heavens. 5. And every tree of the field, which was not before in the earth, and every herb of the field, which grew not before. For God the LORD had not yet caused it to rain upon the earth, neither was there any man to till the ground. 6. But a mist came up from the earth, and wetted all the land. 7. And God the LORD made man of a crock of earth, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. And so man became a living soul. 8. And God the LORD planted a garden in Eden eastward, and put therein the man whom he had made. 9. And God the LORD caused to grow up out of the earth every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; and the tree of life in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. 10. And there went out of Eden a river to water the garden, and there it divided itself into four principal waters. 11. The name of the first is Pison, which hath a fever throughout all the land of Hevilah, and there is found gold. 12. And the gold of the land is precious, and there is found bedellion, and the precious stone onyx. 13. And the other water is called Gihon, which goeth round about all the land of the Moors. 14. The third water is called Hiddekel, the flood of Assyria. The fourth water is Phrath. 15. And God the LORD took the man, and put him in the garden of Eden, to build it, and to keep it. 16. And God the LORD commanded the man, saying, Thou shalt eat of every tree of the garden; 17. But of the tree of knowledge, of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it. For in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. 18. And God the LORD said. It is not good that a man should be alone; I will make him a helpmeet to be with him. 19. For when God the LORD had made of the earth all manner of beasts of the field, and all manner of fowls of the air, he brought them unto man to see what he should call them: for as man shall call all manner of living creatures, so shall they be called. 20. And man gave his name to every beast, and to every fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field: but there was found no helper for man to go about him. 21. And God the LORD cast a deep sleep upon the man, and he slept. And he took one of his ribs, and closed up the place with flesh. 22. And God the LORD made a woman of the rib which he took from man, and brought her unto him. 23. And the man said, Surely this is bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh. She shall be called a woman, because she is taken from a man. 24. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. 25. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. (Genesis) Chapter 3 Adam and Eve sin. Their punishment. Promise of the Messiah. 1. And the serpent was more cunning than all the beasts of the field, which God the LORD had made, and said unto the woman, Yea, God should have said: Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden. 2. Then said the woman unto the serpent: We eat from the fruit of the trees in the garden; 3. But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Eat not of it, neither touch it, lest ye die. 4. And the serpent said unto the woman: You shall by no means die of death; 5. But God knoweth that in the day ye eat thereof, then shall your eyes be opened, and ye shall be as God, and shall know what is good and what is evil. 6. And the woman saw that the tree was good to eat of, and that it was pleasant to the sight, and that it was a goodly tree, because it made men wise: and she took of the fruit, and did eat, and gave to her husband also, and he did eat. 7. And both their eyes were opened, and they perceived that they were naked; and they put fig leaves together, and made them aprons. 8. And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden, when the day was cool. And Adam hid himself and his wife from the presence of the LORD God under the trees of the garden. 9. And God the LORD called Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? 10. And he said: I heard thy voice in the garden, and was afraid, because I was naked: therefore I hid myself. 11. And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou not eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat thereof? 12. And Adam said, The woman whom thou hast joined unto me gave me of the tree, and I did eat. 13. Then said God the LORD unto the woman: Why hast thou done this? And the woman said, The serpent so deceived me, that I did eat. 14. And God the LORD said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this thing, be thou accursed above all cattle, and above all beasts of the field. Thou shalt walk upon thy belly, and shalt eat earth all thy days. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed. The same shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. 16. And unto the woman he said, I will cause thee much pain, when thou art with child; thou shalt bring forth children with pain: and thy will shall be subject unto thy husband, and he shall be thy lord. 17. And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it; cursed be the field for thy sake; with sorrow shalt thou feed thereon all the days of thy life. 18. Thorns and thistles shall he bear unto thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field. 19. In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat thy bread, until thou return unto the ground from whence thou wast taken. For thou art earth, and shalt become earth. 20. And Adam called his wife's name Heva; because she is the mother of all the living. 21. And God the LORD made Adam and his wife skirts of skins, and put them on them, 22. And God the LORD said, Behold, Adam is become as we are, and knoweth good and evil. But now lest he put forth his hand, and break also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: 23. Then God the LORD sent him forth out of the garden of Eden, to build the field from whence he was taken, 24. And he cast out Adam, and pitched before the garden of Eden the cherub with a naked edge of the sword, to keep the way unto the tree of life. (Genesis) Chapter 4 Cain's fratricide. His descendants. 1. And Adam knew Heva his wife, and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said: I have the man, the LORD. 2. And she went on, and bare Habel his brother. And Habel became a shepherd, and Cain became a husbandman. 3. And it came to pass after certain days, that Cain offered of the fruit of the field unto the LORD; 4. And Habel also brought of the firstlings of his flock, and of their fat. And the LORD looked graciously onabel and his sacrifices; 5. But he looked not graciously upon Cain and upon his offering. And Cain was sore displeased, and his countenance was changed. 6. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth, and why is thy countenance disguised? 7. Is it not so? if thou be godly, thou art pleasant: but if thou be not godly, sin lieth at the door. But let it not have its way, but rule over it. 8. And Cain spake unto Habel his brother. And it came to pass, as they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Habel his brother, and slew him. 9. And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is thy brother Habel? And he said: I know not; shall I be my brother's keeper? 10. And he said, What hast thou done? The voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the earth. 11. And now be thou accursed upon the earth, which hath opened her mouth, and received thy brother's blood at thy hands. 12. When thou shalt build the field, he shall not give thee away his substance. Thou shalt be unstable and fugitive upon the earth. 13. And Cain said unto the LORD, My sin is greater than this, that it should be forgiven me. 14. Behold, thou hast driven me out of the land this day; and thou hast hid me from thy face; and I shall be a wanderer and a fugitive upon the earth. So it shall come to pass, that whosoever findeth me shall slay me. 15. And the LORD said unto him, Nay; but whosoever slayeth Cain shall be sevenfold smoked. And the LORD made a sign unto Cain, that whosoever found him might not slay him. 16. So Cain departed from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod on the east side of Eden. 17. And Cain knew his wife, and she conceived, and bare Hanoch. And he built a city, and called it Hanoch, after the name of his son. 18. And Hanoch begat Irad, and Irad begat Mahujael, and Mahujael begat Methusael, and Methusael begat Lamech. 19. And Lamech took two wives; the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah. 20. And Adah bare Jabal; from whom came they that dwelt in tents, and drew cattle. 21. And his brother's name was Jubal: from him came the fiddlers and pipers. 22. And Zillah also bare, that is, to Tubalcain, the master of all manner of brass and ironwork. And the sister of Tubalcain was Naema. 23. And Lamech said unto his wives, Adah and Zillah, Wives of Lamech, hear my words, and know what I say; I have slain a man for a wound, and a young man for a bruise. 24. Cain shall be smelled seven times, but Lamech seventy and seven times. 25. And Adam knew his wife, and she bare a son, and called his name Seth: for God hath given me, said she, another seed for Habel, whom Cain slew. 26. And Seth also begat a son, and called his name Enos. And at that time they began to preach the name of the LORD. (Genesis) Chapter 5 Genealogical register of the patriarchs from Adam down to Noah. 1. This is the book of the generation of man. When God created man, He made him in the likeness of God. 2. And made them male and female; and blessed them, and called their name man at the time that they were made. 3. And Adam was an hundred and thirty years old, and begat a son in his own image, and called his name Seth; 4. And after that he lived eight hundred years, and begat sons and daughters; 5. And all his days were nine hundred and thirty years, and he died. 6. Seth was one hundred and five years old and begat Enos; 7. And after that he lived eight hundred and seven years, and begat sons and daughters; 8. And all his days were nine hundred and twelve years, and he died. 9. Enos was ninety years old and witnessed Kenan; 10. And after that he lived eight hundred and fifteen years, and begat sons and daughters; 11. And all his days were nine hundred and five years, and he died. 12. Kenan was seventy years old and begat Mahalaleel; 13. And after that he lived eight hundred and forty years, and begat sons and daughters; 14. And all his days were nine hundred and ten years, and he died. 15. Mahalaleel was sixty-five years old and witnessed to Jared; 16. And after that he lived eight hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters; 17. And all his days were eight hundred and ninety and five years, and he died. 18. Jared was one hundred and sixty-two years old, and begat Enoch; 19. And after that he lived eight hundred years, and begat sons and daughters; 20. And all his days were nine hundred and threescore and two years, and he died. 21. Enoch was sixty and five years old, and begat Methuselah. 22. And after he begat Methuselah, he abode in a godly life three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters; 23. And all his days were three hundred threescore and five years. 24. And while he led a godly life, God took him away, and was seen no more. 25. Methuselah was an hundred and eighty and seven years old, and begat Lamech; 26. And after that he lived seven hundred and eighty and two years, and begat sons and daughters; 27. And all his days were nine hundred and threescore and nine years: and he died. 28. Lamech was an hundred and eighty-two years old, and begat a son. 29. And called his name Noah, saying, He shall comfort us in our labour and our toil upon the earth, which the LORD hath cursed. 30. After that he lived five hundred and ninety and five years, and begat sons and daughters; 31. And all his days were seven hundred and seventy and seven years: and he died. 32. Noah was five hundred years old, and begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth. (Genesis) Chapter 6 Announcement of the Flood. Building of the ark or the box. 1. And when men began to multiply on the earth, and to beget daughters unto them, 2. And the children of God looked on the daughters of men, and saw that they were fair, and took them wives whom they would. 3. Then said the LORD, Men will not be punished by my spirit any more: for they are flesh. And I will give them yet an hundred and twenty years. 4. There were also tyrants in the earth in those days: for when the children of God slept with the daughters of men, and begat them children, they became mighty men in the world, and mighty men of renown. 5. And when the LORD saw that the wickedness of men was great upon the earth, and that all the thoughts and actions of their heart were evil for ever, 6. And it grieved him that he had made man upon the earth, and it grieved him in his heart, 7. And said: And I will destroy them which I have created from off the face of the earth, from man unto cattle, and unto creeping things, and unto the fowls of the air: for it repenteth me that I have made them. 8. But Noah found grace in the sight of the LORD. 9. This is the generation of Noah: Noah was a godly man, and without change, and lived a godly life in his days. 10. And begat three sons, Shem, Ham, Japheth. 11. But the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and full of iniquity. 12. Then God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt: for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. 13. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me, because the earth is full of their iniquity: and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. 14. Make thee a chest of fir wood, and make chambers therein, and pitch them within and without. 15. And make it so: three hundred cubits shall be the length thereof, fifty cubits the breadth thereof, and thirty cubits the height thereof. 16. thou shalt make a window in the top thereof, a cubit in height. And the door shall be in the midst of the side thereof. And it shall have three bottoms, one at the bottom, the other in the middle, and the third in the height. 17. For, behold, I will bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is a living breath under heaven. And all that is upon the earth shall perish. 18. But with thee will I establish a covenant; and thou shalt go into the coffer with thy sons, and with thy wife, and with thy sons' wives. 19. And thou shalt put in the coffer every beast of all flesh, every pair of them, male and female, that they may live with thee. 20. Of the birds after their kind, and of the cattle after their kind, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind; of them all a pair shall go in unto thee, that they may live. 21. And thou shalt take unto thee all manner of meat that is eaten; and thou shalt gather it unto thee, and it shall be meat for thee and for them. 22. And Noah did all that God commanded him. (Genesis) Chapter 7 The Flood is breaking. 1. And the LORD said unto Noah, Get thee into the chest, thou, and all thy house: for I have seen thee righteous before me at this time. 2. Of all the clean cattle take thee seven and seven, the male and his female: and of the unclean cattle a pair each, the male and his female. 3. The same of the birds of the air, seven and seven, the male and his female; that seed may live upon the face of all the earth. 4. For yet more than seven days will I cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights, and will destroy from off the face of the earth every living thing that I have made. 5. And Noah did according to all that the LORD commanded him. 6. And he was six hundred years old when the waters of the flood came upon the earth. 7. And he went into the coffer with his sons, and his wife, and his sons' wives, before the waters of the flood. 8. Of the clean cattle, and of the unclean, and of the fowl, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 9. And they went in unto him by pairs, male and female, as the LORD commanded him. 10. And when the seven days were expired, the waters of the flood came upon the earth. 11. In the six hundredth year of the age of Noah, in the seventeenth day of the second month, which is the day that all the fountains of the great deep broke open, and opened the windows of heaven, 12. And there came rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights. 13. And the same day Noah went into the box with Shem, and Ham, and Japheth his sons, and his wife, and his sons' three wives; 14. And every beast after his kind, and every cattle after his kind, and every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind, and every fowl after his kind, and every flying thing, and every winged thing. 15. All these things went unto Noah into the coffer with couples, of all flesh, because there was a living spirit within. 16. And these were men and women of all flesh: and they went in, as God had commanded him. And the LORD shut the door behind him. 17. And the flood came upon the earth forty days; and the waters rose up, and lifted up the chest, and carried it up above the earth. 18. So the waters overflowed, and waxed exceeding great upon the earth, that the cistern ran upon the waters. 19. And the waters prevailed, and increased so much upon the earth, that all the high mountains under the whole heaven were covered. 20. Fifteen cubits high went the waters over the mountains that were covered. 21. Then perished all flesh that creepeth upon the earth, of birds, and of cattle, and of beasts, and of all that moveth upon the earth, and of all men. 22. Every living thing that had a living breath in the dry land died. 23. So all that was upon the face of the earth was destroyed, from man unto cattle, and unto creeping things, and to the fowls of the air: all these were destroyed from off the earth. But Noah remained, and all that was with him in the box. 24. And the waters stood upon the earth an hundred and fifty days. (Genesis) Chapter 8 The Flood is coming to an end. 1. Then God remembered Noah, and all the beasts and all the cattle that were with him in the box, and caused the wind to come upon the earth, and the waters fell. 2. And the fountains of the deep were stopped up, and the windows of heaven; and the rain from heaven was withholden. 3. And the waters departed from the earth continually, and abated after the space of an hundred and fifty days. 4. On the seventeenth day of the seventh moon the caste settled upon mount Ararat. 5. And the waters passed away, and abated, until the tenth moon. On the first day of the tenth moon the tops of the mountains peeped out. 6. And it came to pass after forty days, that Noah opened the window of the box which he had made, 7. And he sent forth a raven, which flew to and fro, until the waters were dried up upon the earth. 8. And afterward he sent forth a dove, that he might know whether the waters were fallen upon the earth. 9. But when the dove found not where her foot could rest, she came again unto him into the coffer: for the waters were yet upon the whole face of the earth. And he put forth his hand, and took it unto him into the coffer. 10. And he tarried yet another seven days, and sent again a dove flying out of the box. 11. And she came to him about the time of supper, and, behold, she had broken an olive leaf, and bare it in her mouth. Then Noah heard that the waters were fallen upon the earth. 12. And he tarried yet other seven days, and sent forth a dove, which came not again to him. 13. In the six hundred and first year of Noah's age, in the first day of the first month, the waters of the earth dried up. Then Noah took the roof off the box, and saw that the ground was dry. 14. So the earth was wholly dry on the twenty and seventh day of the second month. 15. Then God spake unto Noah, saying: 16. Get thee out of the coffer, thou, and thy wife, and thy sons, and thy sons' wives with thee. 17. Every beast that is with thee, of every flesh, of every fowl, and of every cattle, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, come out with thee; and be ye fruitful and multiply upon the earth. 18. So Noah went forth with his sons, and his wife, and his sons' wives; 19. And every beast, and every creeping thing, and every fowl, and every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, came out of the box, every one to his own kind. 20. And Noah built an altar unto the LORD, and took of all clean cattle, and of all clean fowls, and offered burnt offerings upon the altar. 21. And the LORD smelled the sweet savour, and said in his heart, I will curse the earth no more for man's sake: for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth. And I will smite no more every living thing, as I have done. 22. As long as the earth standeth, seed and harvest, frost and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease. (Genesis) Chapter 9 God confirms his covenant through the rainbow. 1. And God blessed Noah and his sons, saying, Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. 2. Let your fear and dread be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, and upon every creeping thing that moveth upon the earth; and let every fish of the sea be delivered into your hand. 3. Every thing that moveth and liveth, that shall be your meat: as the green herb have I given you all of it. 4. But eat not the flesh which is yet alive in his blood. 5. For I will also avenge the blood of your bodies, and will avenge it upon all beasts; and I will avenge the life of man upon every man that is his brother. 6. Whosoever sheddeth man's blood, his blood also shall be shed by man: for God hath made man in his own image. 7. Be fruitful, and multiply, and be active on the earth, and be multiplied. 8. and God said to Noah and to his sons with him: 9. Behold, I establish a covenant with you, and with your seed after you. 10. And with every living creature that is with you, of the fowl, and of the cattle, and of every beast that is with you upon the earth, of every beast that is gone out of the casket, whatsoever is upon the earth. 11. And establish my covenant with you, that henceforth all flesh shall no more be destroyed with the waters of the flood; neither shall there any more come a flood to destroy the earth. 12. And God said, This is the sign of the covenant which I have made between me and you, and every living creature with you for ever: 13. I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be for a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. 14. And it shall come to pass, when I bring clouds upon the earth, that my bow shall be seen in the clouds. 15. Then will I remember my covenant between me and you, and every living thing that is in all flesh, that there come no more floods to destroy all flesh. 16. Therefore shall my bow be in the clouds, that I may look upon it, and remember the everlasting covenant between GOD and every living beast in all flesh that is upon the earth. 17. God also said the same thing to Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant that I have established between Me and all flesh on earth. 18. The sons of Noah, which went out of the coffer, are these: Shem, Ham, Japheth. But Ham is the father of Canaan. 19. These are the three sons of Noah, of whom all the land is occupied. 20. And Noah began, and became a husbandman, and planted vineyards. 21. And when he had drunk the wine, he was drunken, and lay uncovered in the tabernacle. 22. And when Ham the father of Canaan saw his father's shame, he told his two brethren without. 23. And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and put it upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered their father's shame: and their faces were turned away, that they might not see their father's shame. 24. And Noah awoke from his wine, and learned what his little son had done unto him, 25. And he said, Cursed be Canaan, and be a servant of all the servants of his brethren. 26. And he said, Blessed be GOD, the LORD of Shem; and let Canaan be his servant. 27. And God shall spread out Japheth, and make him to dwell in the tents of Shem: and Canaan shall be his servant. 28. And Noah lived after the flood three hundred and fifty years, 29. And all his days were nine hundred and fifty years, and he died. (Genesis) Chapter 10 Sex and descendants of the sons of Noah. 1. This is the generation of the children of Noah: Shem, Ham, Japheth. And they begat children after the flood. 2. the children of Japheth are these: Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Thubal, Mesech and Thiras. 3. but the children of Gomer are these: Askenas, Riphath and Thogarma. 4. the children of Javan are these: Elisa, Tharsis, Kittim and Dodanim. 5. Of these are spread abroad the isles of the heathen in their countries, every one according to his language, kindred, and people. 6. The children of Ham are these: Chus, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan. 7. But the children of Chus are these. Seba, Hevila, Sabtha, Raema and Sabtecha. But the children of Raema are these: Sheba and Dedan. 8. And Chus begat Nimrod. And he began to be a mighty lord in the earth, 9. And was a mighty hunter before the LORD. Therefore they say, This is a mighty hunter before the LORD, as Nimrod. 10. And the beginning of his kingdom was at Babylon, and at Erech, and at Akkad, and at Calne, in the land of Sinear. 11. Afterward came Assyria out of the land, and built Nineveh, and Rehoboth-Ir, and Kalah, 12. Resen between Nineveh and Kalah. This is a great city. 13. Mizraim begat Ludim, Anamim, Leabim, Naphthuhim, 14. Pathrusim and Kasluhim. From thence come the Philistim and Kaphthorim. 15. And Canaan begat Zidon his first son, and Heth, 16. Jebusi, Emori, Girgasi, 17. Hivi, Arki, Sini, 18. Arvadi, and Zemari, and Hamathi. Therefore the families of the Canaanites are spread out. 19. And their border was from Zidon, through Gerar, unto Gaza, unto Sodom, and unto Gomorrha, and unto Adama, and unto Zeboim, and unto Lasa. 20. These are the children of Ham in their generations, tongues, countries, and people. 21. And Shem, the greater brother of Japheth, begat children also, who is the father of all the children of Eber. 22. And these are his children; Elam, Asshur, Arphachad, Lud, and Aram. 23. And the children of Aram are these: Uz, Hut, Gether, and Mas. 24. And Arphachad begat Salah, and Salah begat Eber. 25. And Eber begat two sons. One was called Peleg, because in his days the world was divided: and his brother's name was Jaketan. 26. And Jaketan begat Almodad, Saleph, Hazarmaveth, Jarah, 27. Hadoram, Usal, Dikela, 28. Obal, Abimael, Seba, 29. Ophir, Hevila and Jobab. These are all the children of Jaketan. 30. And their dwelling was from Mesa even unto Sephar, unto the mountain eastward. 31. These are the children of Shem in their generations, tongues, countries, and people. 32. Now these are the seed of the children of Noah in their generations and in their people. Of whom are spread abroad the people of the earth after the flood. (Genesis) Chapter 11 Tower of Babel. Confusion of languages. Sexes of Sem. 1. And all the world had one tongue and language. 2. And they went eastward, and found a plain land in the land of Shinar, and dwelt there, 3. And said one to another, Come, let us make bricks, and let us burn them. And they took brick for stone, and clay for lime. 4. And they said: Come, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven, that we may make us a name: for we may be scattered abroad. 5. And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower which the children of men were building. 6. And the LORD said, Behold, there is one people and one language among them all, and they have begun to do this thing; they will not cease from all that they have undertaken to do. 7. Come, let us go down, and confound their language there, that none may hear another's speech. 8. So the LORD scattered them abroad, and they ceased from building the city. 9. Therefore her name is called Babylon, because there the LORD had confounded the language of all the earth, and scattered them abroad in all countries. 10. These are the generations of Shem: Shem was an hundred years old, and begat Arphaxad two years after the flood; 11. And after that he lived five hundred years, and begat sons and daughters. 12. Arphachad was thirty and five years old, and begat Salah; 13. And after that he lived four hundred and three years, and begat sons and daughters. 14. Salah was thirty years old and begat boars; 15. And after that he lived four hundred and three years, and begat sons and daughters. 16. Eber was thirty-four years old and begat Peleg; 17. And after that he lived four hundred and thirty years, and begat sons and daughters. 18. Peleg was thirty years old and begat Regu; 19. And after that he lived two hundred and nine years, and begat sons and daughters. 20. Regu was thirty-two years old and witnessed Serug; 21. And after that he lived two hundred and seven years, and begat sons and daughters. 22. Serug was thirty years old and begat Nahor; 23. And after that he lived two hundred years, and begat sons and daughters. 24. Nahor was twenty and nine years old, and begat Tharah; 25. And afterward he lived an hundred and nineteen years, and begat sons and daughters. 26. Tharah was seventy years old, and begat Abram, Nahor, and Haran. 27. These are the families of Tarah: Tharah begat Abram, Nahor, and Haran. But Haran begat Lot. 28. And Haran died before Tarah his father in his fatherland at Ur in Chaldea. 29. And Abram and Nahor took wives. And Abram's wife's name was Sarai; and Nahor's wife's name was Milcah, the daughter of Haran, which was the father of Milcah and of Jiskah. 30. But Sarai was barren, and had no child. 31. And Tarah took Abram his son, and Lot his son Haran's son, and Sarai his wife, his son Abram's wife, and brought them from Ur of Chaldea, to go into the land of Canaan: and they came to Haran, and dwelt there. 32. And Tarah was two hundred and five years old, and died in Haran. (Genesis) Chapter 12 Abram is called and goes to Egypt. 1. And the LORD said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land which I will shew thee. 2. And I will make thee a great nation, and will bless thee, and make thee a great name, and thou shalt be a blessing. 3. I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curse thee: and in thee shall all kindreds of the earth be blessed. 4. And Abram went out, as the LORD had said unto him; and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy and five years old when he went out of Haran. 5. So Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had gotten, and the souls that they had begotten in Haran, and departed to go into the land of Canaan. And when they were come into that same land, 6. And Abram passed through unto the place of Shechem, and unto the grove of More. For the Canaanites dwelt in the land at that time. 7. And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land. And there he built an altar unto the LORD, which appeared unto him. 8. And afterward he departed from thence unto a mountain that was toward the east of the city of Bethel, and pitched his tent, that he might have Bethel toward the west, and Ai toward the east: and there he built an altar unto the LORD, and preached of the name of the LORD. 9. And afterward Abram departed, and went out toward the south. 10. And there came a plague into the land. And Abram went down into Egypt, to abstain there as a stranger: for the plague was great in the land. 11. And when he was come nigh unto Egypt, he said unto Sarai his wife, Behold, I know that thou art a fair woman in countenance. 12. And when the Egyptians shall see thee, they shall say, This is his wife: and they shall slay me, and keep thee. 13. Say, I pray thee, that thou art my sister, that I may be the better for thy sake, and that my soul may abide in life for thy sake. 14. And when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians saw the woman, that she was almost fair. 15. And Pharaoh's princes saw her, and praised her before him. And she was brought into Pharaoh's house. 16. And he did good unto Abram for their sakes. And he had sheep, and oxen, and asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and asses, and camels. 17. But the LORD afflicted Pharaoh with great plagues, and his house because of Sarai Abram's wife. 18. And Pharaoh called Abram unto him, and said unto him, Why hast thou done this thing unto me? Why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife? 19. Wherefore saidst thou then that she was thy sister? because I would take her to me to wife. And now, behold, There's your wife. Take her and go. 20. And Pharaoh commanded his men to go over him, and his wife, and all that he had. (Genesis) Chapter 13 Abram divorces Lot, his cousin. 1. So Abram went up out of Egypt with his wife, and with all that he had, and Lot also with him, toward the south. 2. And Abram was very rich in cattle, and in silver, and in gold. 3. And he went on from south to Bethel, to the place where his tent was first, between Bethel and Ai, 4. To the very place where he had made the altar before. And there he preached the name of the Lord. 5. And Lot, which went with Abram, had also flocks, and herds, and tents. 6. And the land could not bear that they should dwell together: for their substance was great, and they could not dwell together. 7. And there was always strife between the shepherds over Abram's cattle, and between the shepherds over Lot's cattle. And the Canaanites and the Perizzites dwelt in the land at that time. 8. And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife between me and thee, neither between my shepherds and thy shepherds: for we are brethren. 9. Is not all the land open to thee? Be gone from me, my love. If thou wilt go to the left, I will go to the right; or if thou wilt go to the right, I will go to the left. 10. Then Lot lifted up his eyes, and looked upon all the coasts of Jordan. For before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrha, it was full of water, until they come to Zoar, as the garden of the LORD, even as the land of Egypt. 11. And Lot shewed him all the coasts of Jordan, and departed toward the east. So one brother separated himself from another. 12. And Abram dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot in the cities of the same country, and set his tents in Sodom. 13. But the people of Sodom were wicked, and sinned greatly against the LORD. 14. And it came to pass, when Lot was departed from Abram, that the LORD said unto Abram, Lift up thine eyes, and look from the place where thou dwellest toward the north, toward the south, toward the east, and toward the west. 15. For all the land which thou seest I will give thee, and thy seed for ever. 16. And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth. If a man can number the dust of the earth, he shall number thy seed also. 17. Arise therefore, and go through the land, through the length and breadth thereof: for unto thee will I give it. 18. So Abram lifted up his tents, and came and dwelt in the grove of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the LORD. (Genesis) Chapter 14 Abram saves Lot; is blessed by Melchizedek. 1. And it came to pass in the days of Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Elassar, and Kedor-laomor king of Elam, and Thideal king of the Gentiles; 2. And they made war with Bera king of Sodom, and with Birsa king of Gomorrha, and with Shineab king of Adamah, and with Shemeber king of Zeboim, and with the king of Bela, whose name is Zoar. 3. These came all together into the valley of Siddim, where now is the salt sea. 4. For they had been twelve years under king Kedor-laomor, and in the thirteenth year they had departed from him. 5. Therefore came Kedor-laomor, and the kings that were with him, in the fourteenth year, and smote the giants of Ashtaroth-carnaim, and the Susim of Ham, and the Emim in the field of Kiriathaim. 6. And the Horites in mount Seir, unto the breadth of Pharan, which is upon the wilderness. 7. And afterward they turned, and came to the spring of Mishpat, that is, Kadesh, and smote all the land of the Amalekites, and the Amorites that dwelt in Hazezonthhamar. 8. And the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrha, and the king of Adamah, and the king of Zeboim, and the king of Bela, which is called Zoar, went out, and prepared themselves to fight in the valley of Siddim. 9. With Kedor-laomor king of Elam, and with Tideal king of the Gentiles, and with Amraphel king of Shinar, and with Arioch king of Elassar, four kings with five. 10. And the valley of Siddim had many clay pits. And the king of Sodom and Gomorrha were put to flight there, and laid low: and they that remained fled unto the mountains. 11. And they took all the substance of Sodom and Gomorrha, and all the meat, and departed. 12. And they took Lot Abram's brother's son with them, and his substance; for he dwelt in Sodom: and they departed. 13. And there came one that escaped, and told Abram the foreigner that dwelt in the grove of Mamre the Amorite, which was a brother to Escol and Aner. These were in league with Abram. 14. And when Abram heard that his brother was taken, he armed his servants, three hundred and eighteen that were born in his house, and pursued after them unto Dan; 15. And he divided himself, and fell upon them by night with his servants, and smote them, and chased them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of the city of Damascus, 16. And he brought again all the goods, and Lot his brother with his goods, and the women, and the people. 17. And when he was come again from the battle of Kedor-laomor, and of the kings with him, the king of Sodom went out to meet him into the field that is called the king's valley. 18. But Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine. And he was a priest of GOD Most High. 19. And he blessed him, and said, Blessed art thou, Abram, unto the most high God, which owneth heaven and earth, 20. And blessed be God Most High, which hath delivered thine enemies into thine hand. And unto the same Abram gave tithes of all things. 21. And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the people, and keep the goods. 22. And Abram said unto the king of Sodom, I lift up my hands unto the LORD, the most high God, which possesseth heaven and earth, 23. That I will not take of all that is thine, one thread, nor one shoestring, lest thou say that thou hast made Abram rich. 24. Except that which the young men have eaten, and the men Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre, which went with me, let them take their part. (Genesis) Chapter 15 Abram's faith and righteousness are praised. 1. And it came to pass after these things, that the word of the LORD came unto Abram in his vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy very great reward. 2. And Abram said, O Lord, what wilt thou give me? I go thither without children: and my steward hath a son, this Eliezer of Damascus. 3. And Abram said again, Thou gavest me no seed: and, behold, the son of my seed shall be mine heir. 4. And, behold, the LORD said unto him, He shall not be thine heir, but he that shall come out of thy womb shall be thine heir. 5. And he commanded him to go out, and said, Look toward heaven, and number the stars; canst thou number them? And said unto him, So shall thy seed be. 6. Abram believed the LORD, and he counted it to him for righteousness. 7. And he said unto him, I am the LORD that brought thee out of Chaldea from Ur, to give thee this land to possess. 8. And Abram said, O Lord, how shall I know that I possess it? 9. And he said unto him, Bring me a heifer of three years old, and a she goat of three years old, and a ram of three years old, and a turtledove, and a young pigeon. 10. And he brought him all these things, and divided them in the midst, and put one part over against another; but he divided not the birds. 11. And the fowls fell upon the ashes: but Abram shooed them away. 12. And when the sun was down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and, behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him. 13. And he said unto Abram, Know thou that thy seed shall be strangers in a land that is not theirs: and there they shall be compelled to serve, and shall be afflicted four hundred years. 14. But I will judge the people, whom they shall serve. And afterward they shall go forth with great substance. 15. And thou shalt return unto thy fathers in peace, and be buried in a good old age. 16. And they shall come again after four generations: for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet ended. 17. And when the sun was down and dark, behold, a furnace smoked, and a flame of fire passed between the pieces. 18. In that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed will I give this land, from the waters of Egypt even unto the great river Phrath: 19. The Kenites, the Kinites, the Kadmonites, 20. The Hittites, the Perizzites, the giants, 21. The Amorites, the Canaanites, the Gergesites, the Jebusites. (Genesis) Chapter 16 Hagar gives birth to Ishmael. 1. Sarai Abram's wife bare him nothing. But she had an Egyptian maid, whose name was Hagar. 2. And she said unto Abram, Behold, the LORD hath shut me up, that I cannot bring forth. Lay thee by my handmaid, that I may build me of her. And Abram obeyed the voice of Sarai. 3. And Sarai Abram's wife took Hagar her Egyptian maid, and gave her to Abram her husband to wife, after they had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan. 4. And he lay with Hagar, and she conceived. And when she saw that she was with child, she esteemed her wife little against her. 5. And Sarai said unto Abram, Thou hast done wrong unto me. I have put my handmaid by thee; but now that she hath conceived, I am wicked against her. Let the LORD be judge between me and thee. 6. And Abram said unto Sarai, Behold, thy handmaid is under thy power; do with her as it pleaseth thee. And when she would have humbled Sarai, she fled from her. 7. But the angel of the LORD found them by a well of water in the wilderness, even by the well of the way of Sur. 8. And he said unto her, Hagar, Sarai's handmaid, whence comest thou, and whither wilt thou go? She said: I have fled from my wife Sarai. 9. And the angel of the LORD said unto her, Return unto thy wife, and humble thyself under her hand. 10. And the angel of the LORD said unto her: I will so multiply thy seed, that it shall not be numbered for multitude. 11. And the angel of the LORD said unto her, Behold, thou art with child, and shalt bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Ishmael: because the LORD hath heard thy affliction. 12. He shall be a fierce man, his hand against every man, and every man's hand against him: and he shall dwell against all his brethren. 13. And she called the name of the LORD, which spake unto her, Thou God seest me. For she said, Surely here have I seen him that looked on me afterward. 14. Therefore she called the well a well of the Living One that looked upon me; which well is between Kadesh and Bared. 15. And Hagar bare Abram a son: and Abram called the name of the son that Hagar bare him Ishmael. 16. And Abram was eighty and six years old when Hagar bare him Ishmael. (Genesis) Chapter 17 Isaac's promise is confirmed with circumcision. 1. Now when Abram was ninety and nine years old, the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me and be pious! 2. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee almost greatly. 3. And Abram fell on his face. And God continued to speak to him, saying: 4. Behold, I am, and have my covenant with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations. 5. Therefore thou shalt no more be called Abram, but Abraham shall thy name be: for I have made thee the father of many nations. 6. And I will make thee almost very fruitful, and will make nations of thee; and kings also shall come of thee. 7. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their generations; and it shall be an everlasting covenant, that I may be thy God, and thy seed after thee. 8. And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger within, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession: and I will be their God. 9. And God said unto Abraham, Keep now my covenant, thou, and thy seed after thee, with their seed. 10. Now this is my covenant, which ye shall keep between me and you, and thy seed after thee: every male among you shall be circumcised. 11. And ye shall circumcise the foreskin of your flesh. This shall be a sign of the covenant between me and you. 12. Every kid that is eight days old ye shall circumcise among your seed; and likewise all that are born of your seed, or that are bought of all strangers that are not of your seed. 13. So shall my covenant be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant. 14. And if a kid be not circumcised in the foreskin of his flesh, his soul shall be cut off from among his people, because he hath not kept my covenant. 15. And God said again unto Abraham, Thou shalt no more call thy wife Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16. For I will bless her, and of her will I give thee a son: for I will bless her, and nations shall be of her, and kings over many people. 17. And Abraham fell on his face, and laughed, and said in his heart, Shall there be born unto me a hundred years old a child, and shall Sarah bear ninety years old? 18. And Abraham said unto God, Oh that Ishmael should live before thee! 19. And God said, Yea, Sarah, thy wife shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name Isaac: for with him will I establish mine everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him. 20. For this also have I heard thee concerning Ishmael. Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and multiply him almost exceedingly. He shall beget twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. 21. But I will establish my covenant with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear thee at this time in the next year. 22. And he ceased to speak unto him, and God departed from Abraham. 23. And Abraham took Ishmael his son, and all the servants that were born in his house, and all that were bought, and all that were man's name in his house, and circumcised the foreskin in their flesh that very day, as God had told him. 24. And Abraham was ninety and nine years old when he circumcised the foreskin of his flesh. 25. And Ishmael his son was thirteen years old when his flesh was circumcised. 26. And in one day were they all circumcised, Abraham, Ishmael his son, 27. And that which was man's name in his house, born at home, and bought of strangers: all were circumcised with him. (Genesis) Chapter 18 Abraham is promised Isaac again and the destruction of Sodom is revealed. 1. And the LORD appeared unto him in the grove of Mamre, sitting at the door of his tent, when the day was hottest. 2. And when he lifted up his eyes, and looked, behold, three men stood against him. And when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the door of his tabernacle, and stooped down to the ground. 3. And said, Lord, if I have found grace in thine eyes, pass not over before thy servant. 4. And they shall bring you a little water, and wash your feet; and lean ye under the tree. 5. And I will bring you a morsel of bread, and ye shall refresh your hearts; and afterward ye shall depart. For therefore came ye to your servant. They said: Do as thou hast said. 6. And Abraham hasted into the tabernacle unto Sarah, and said, Make haste, and mix three measures of fine flour, and knead, and bake cakes. 7. And he ran unto the oxen, and fetched a goodly calf, and gave it to the lad, and he made haste, and prepared it. 8. And he took butter, and milk, and of the calf which he had prepared, and set it before them, and stood before them under the tree, and they did eat. 9. And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Within the tabernacle. 10. And he said, I will come again unto thee, if I live: behold, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it behind him, behind the door of the tabernacle. 11. And they were both Abraham and Sarah old and well stricken in years; so that Sarah was no more after the manner of women. 12. Therefore she laughed with herself, and said, Now that I am old, shall I yet cherish lust, and my lord also is old? 13. And the LORD said unto Abraham, Why laughed Sarah, saying, Thinkest thou that I shall yet bear, when I am old? 14. Is there any thing impossible to the LORD? At this time will I come again unto thee, and if I live, Sarah shall have a son. 15. And Sarah denied it, and said: I laughed not: for she was afraid. And he said, It is not so; thou hast laughed. 16. And the men arose from thence, and turned toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to lead them. 17. And the LORD said, How can I hide from Abraham what I do? 18. Because he shall become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19. For I know that he will command his children, and his household after him, to keep the way of the LORD, and to do that which is right and good: that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath promised him. 20. And the LORD said, There is a cry in Sodom and Gomorrha, which is great, and their sins are almost grievous. 21. Therefore will I go down, and see whether they have done all according to the cry that is come before me; or whether it be not so, that I may know. 22. And the men turned their faces, and went to Sodom: but Abraham stood still before the LORD. 23. And stood by him, and said, Wilt thou then kill the righteous with the wicked? 24. There may be fifty righteous men in the city: wilt thou destroy them, and not forgive the place, because of fifty righteous men that are therein? 25. Far be it from thee, that thou shouldest do this thing, and kill the righteous with the wicked, that the righteous should be as the wicked: far be it from thee, that judgest all the earth. Thou wilt not judge thus. 26. And the LORD said, If I find fifty righteous men in the city of Sodom, then I will forgive all the places for their sakes. 27. And Abraham answered and said, Ah, behold, I have made myself to speak unto the LORD, though I be earth and ashes. 28. There might be five less than fifty righteous within: wilt thou then destroy the whole city for the sake of the five? And he said, If I find forty and five within, I will not destroy them. 29. And he continued to speak unto him, saying, There may be found forty within. And he said: I will not hurt them because of the forty. 30. And Abraham said, Be not angry, O LORD, that I speak any more. There may be found thirty in it. And he said, If I find thirty within, I will not hurt them. 31. And he said, Behold, I have refrained from speaking with the LORD. One might like to find twenty within. And he answered: I will not destroy them for the sake of twenty. 32. And he said, Be not angry, O Lord, that I speak but once more. There may be ten in it. And he said: I will not destroy them for the sake of the ten. 33. And the LORD departed after he had talked with Abraham: and Abraham returned unto his place. (Genesis) Chapter 19 Destruction of Sodom. Lot's salvation and fall. 1. The two angels came to Sodom in the evening. And Lot sat in Sodom under the gate. And when he saw them, he stood up to meet them, and bowed himself with his face to the ground. 2. And said, Behold, Lord, come in unto thy servant's house, and tarry overnight, and wash thy costly feet, and rise early in the morning, and go your way. But they said: Nay, but we will tarry in the street overnight. 3. Then he almost compelled them; and they returned unto him, and came into his house. And he made them a feast, and baked unleavened cakes; and they did eat. 4. But before they lay down, the people of the city of Sodom came and compassed the house, young and old, all the people from every quarter, 5. And they called for Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men that are come unto thee this night? Bring them out unto us, that we may know them. 6. Lot went out unto them at the door, and shut the door behind him. 7. Saying, Ah, brethren, do not be so wicked. 8. Behold, I have two daughters, which have not yet known a man: them will I bring forth among you, and do unto them as ye please: but do nothing unto these men: for therefore are they entered under the shadow of my roof. 9. And they said: Come hither. And they said: Thou art the only stranger here, and wilt thou reign? Well, we will afflict thee more abundantly than they. And they pressed hard upon the man Lot. And they came running up, and sought to break open the door, 10. And the men went out, and drew Lot in unto them into the house, and shut the door. 11. And the men that were at the door of the house were smitten with blindness, both small and great, until they were wearied, and could not find the door. 12. And the men said unto Lot, Hast thou yet here a husband, and sons, and daughters? and whosoever thou hast in the city, bring him out of this place. 13. For we will destroy this place, because the cry of it is great before the LORD: he hath sent us to destroy it. 14. And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in oath, which should take his daughters: Arise, get you out of this place: for the LORD will destroy this city. But it was ridiculous unto them. 15. And when the morning arose, the angels made haste unto Lot, saying: Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters which are present, lest thou also perish in the iniquity of this city. 16. And when he was departed, the men took him by the hand, and his wife, and his two daughters; because the LORD spared him, and brought him out, and left him without the city. 17. And when they had brought him forth, he said, Save thy soul, and look not behind thee; neither stand thou in all this place. Save thee in the mount, that thou perish not. 18. But Lot said unto them: Oh no, Lord! 19. Behold, because thy servant hath found grace in thine eyes, magnify thy mercy, which thou hast done unto me, in preserving my soul alive. I cannot save myself on the mountain; I may meet with an accident, and die. 20. Behold, there is a city near, whither I may flee, and it is small, and there will I save myself: yet it is small, that my soul may live. 21. And he said unto him, Behold, I have looked upon thee also in this piece, that I turn not back the city, of which thou hast spoken. 22. Haste thee there, and deliver thee: for I can do nothing till thou come in. Therefore this city is called Zoar. 23. And the sun was risen on the earth, when Lot came into Zoar. 24. And the LORD rained down brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven upon Sodom and Gomorrha. 25. And he turned back the cities, and all the country, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which was grown in the country. 26. And his wife looked behind him, and was turned into a pillar of salt. 27. And Abraham rose up early in the morning unto the place where he stood before the LORD, 28. And he turned his face toward Sodom and Gomorrha, and toward all the country of the region, and looked; and, behold, there went up a smoke from the country, as smoke from a furnace. 29. For when God destroyed the cities of the region, he remembered Abraham, and brought Lot out of the cities, which he turned back, wherein Lot dwelt. 30. And Lot departed from Zoar, and abode in the mount with his two daughters: for he feared to abide in Zoar: so he abode in a cave with his two daughters. 31. And the eldest said unto the youngest, Our father is old, and there is no man left on earth to put us to sleep after the manner of all the earth. 32. Come then, and let us give our father wine to drink, and let us sleep with him, that we may receive seed of our father. 33. So they gave their father wine to drink that night. And the first went in, and lay with her father: and he knew it not when she lay, nor when she arose. 34. And in the morning the eldest said unto the youngest, Behold, I lay with my father yesterday. Let us give him wine to drink this night also, that thou mayest go in and lie :with him, that we may receive seed of our father: 35. So they also gave their father wine to drink that night. And the youngest arose, and lay with him: and he knew it not when she lay, nor when she arose. 36. So the two daughters of Lot became pregnant by their father. 37. And the eldest bare a son, and called his name Moab. From him came the Moabites unto this day. 38. And the youngest bare a son also, and called his name the child Ammi. From him came the children of Ammon unto this day. (Genesis) Chapter 20 Sarah is taken from Abraham by Abimelech and given back with profit. 1. And Abraham departed from thence into the south country, and dwelt between Kadesh and Shur, and was a stranger in Gerar. 2. And he spake of Sarah his wife: It is my sister. Then Abimelech king of Gerar sent for her and took her. 3. And God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said unto him, Behold, thou art dead because of the woman which thou hast taken: for she is a man's wife. 4. And Abimelech touched them not, and said, Lord, wilt thou slay even a righteous people? 5. Hath he not said unto me, She is my sister? And she also said, He is my brother. Have I done this with a simple heart and innocent hands? 6. And God said unto him in a dream, I also know that thou hast done this thing with a simple heart. Therefore I also have kept thee from sinning against me, and have not confessed unto thee that thou hast touched them. 7. Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and let him pray for thee, and thou shalt live. But if thou restore her not, know that thou shalt surely die, and all that is thine. 8. And Abimelech rose up early in the morning, and called unto all his servants, and told them all these things in their ears. And the people were sore afraid. 9. And Abimelech called Abraham also, and said unto him, Why hast thou done this thing unto us? and what have I sinned against thee, that thou hast brought this great sin upon me and upon my kingdom? Thou hast dealt with me, not as one ought to deal. 10. And Abimelech said again unto Abraham, What sawest thou that thou hast done this thing? 11. And Abraham said: I thought, much light is no fear of God in these places, and will slay me for my wife's sake. 12. She also is truly my sister; for she is my father's daughter, but not my mother's daughter; and she is become my wife. 13. And it came to pass, when God had sent me away out of my father's house, that I said unto her, Have mercy upon me, that whithersoever we come, thou mayest say of me, I am thy brother. 14. And Abimelech took sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants, and gave them unto Abraham: and he gave him Sarah his wife again. 15. And said, Behold, my land is open unto thee; dwell where it pleaseth thee. 16. And he said unto Sarah, Behold, I have given thy brother a thousand pieces of silver: behold, this shall be a covering of thine eyes in the sight of all that are with thee, and of all that are with thee. And this was their punishment. 17. And Abraham prayed unto God, and God healed Abimelech, and his wife, and his handmaids, that they should bring forth children. 18. For the LORD had shut up all the mothers of the house of Abimelech before, because of Sarah Abraham's wife. (Genesis) Chapter 21 Isaac's birth. Expulsion of Ishmael. Abraham's covenant with Abimelech. 1. And the LORD sought Sarah home, as he had spoken, and did unto her as he had spoken. 2. And Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age about the time which God had spoken unto him. 3. And Abraham called his son's name, which was born unto him, Isaac, whom Sarah bare unto him, 4. And circumcised him on the eighth day, as God had commanded him. 5. An hundred years old was Abraham, when Isaac his son was born unto him. 6. And Sarah said, God hath prepared a laughter for me: for he that shall hear it shall laugh at me. 7. And said, Who shall say of Abraham, that Sarah bare children, and that she bare him a son in his old age? 8. And the child grew, and was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast in the day that Isaac was weaned. 9. And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she bare unto Abraham, that he was a mocker, 10. And said unto Abraham, Cast out this maid with her son: for this maid's son shall not inherit with Isaac my son. 11. The word pleased Abraham very evil for his son's sake. 12. And God said unto him, Let not the lad and the maid offend thee. All that Sarah hath said unto thee, obey it. For in Isaac shall the seed be called unto thee. 13. I will also make the son of the maid a people, because he is thy seed. 14. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and put it upon Hagar's shoulder, and the lad with her, and let her out. And she went and wandered in the wilderness by Beer-saba. 15. And when the water was out of the bottle, she cast the lad under a tree. 16. And she went and sat down over against him afar off, a bow shot's distance: for she said: I cannot watch the death of the boy. And she sat over against him, and lifted up her voice, and wept. 17. And God heard the voice of the lad. And the angel of God called out of heaven unto Hagar, and said unto her, What is the matter, Hagar? Fear not: for God hath heard the voice of the lad as he lieth. 18. Arise, take the lad, and lead him by thy hand: for I will make him a great nation. 19. And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the bottle with water and watered the boy. 20. And God was with the lad; and he grew and dwelt in the wilderness, and became a good shot; 21. And dwelt in the wilderness of Pharan. And his mother took him a wife out of the land of Egypt. 22. At that time Abimelech and Phichol the captain of his host spake unto Abraham, saying, God is with thee in all that thou doest. 23. Now therefore swear unto me by GOD, that thou wilt not shew unfaithfulness unto me, nor unto my children, nor unto my nephews; but that thou wilt shew the mercy which I have shewed thee unto me, and to the land wherein thou art a stranger within. 24. And Abraham said, I will swear. 25. And Abraham punished Abimelech because of the well of water, which Abimelech's servants had taken by force. 26. And Abimelech said, I knew not who did this thing, neither didst thou tell me; neither did I hear it but to day. 27. And Abraham took sheep and oxen, and gave them unto Abimelech; and they made a covenant together. 28. And Abraham set apart seven lambs. 29. And Abimelech said unto Abraham, What mean these seven lambs which thou hast set forth? 30. And he said, Seven lambs shalt thou take of my hand, that they may be a witness unto me, that I have digged this well. 31. Therefore the name of the place is called Bersaba, because they sware there together. 32. And they made the covenant at Beer-saba. And Abimelech and Phichol the captain of his host arose, and went again into the land of the Philistines. 33. And Abraham planted trees at Beer-saba, and preached there of the name of the LORD God, the everlasting God. 34. And he was a stranger in the land of the Philistines a long time. (Genesis) Chapter 22 Sacrifice of Isaac. Promise of Christ. 1. After these things God tempted Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham. And he answered, Here am I. 2. And he said, Take Isaac thy only son, whom thou lovest, and go into the land of Moriah, and offer him there for a burnt offering upon a mountain which I will tell thee. 3. And Abraham arose early in the morning, and girded up his ass, and took with him two lads, and Isaac his son, and split wood for a burnt offering, and arose, and went unto the place where God had told him. 4. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off. 5. And he said unto his lads: Stay ye here with the ass; I and the lad will go thither: and when we have worshipped, we will come again unto you. 6. And Abraham took the wood for a burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son: and he took the fire and the knife in his hand, and they went both of them together. 7. And Isaac said unto Abraham his father, My fathers. And Abraham said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold, here is fire and wood; but where is the sheep for the burnt offering? 8. And Abraham said, My son, God shall provide him a sheep for a burnt offering. And they went both of them together. 9. And when they came to the place which God had told him, Abraham built there an altar, and laid the wood thereon, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him upon the altar upon the wood. 10. And he put forth his hand, and took hold of the knife, to slay his son. 11. And the angel of the LORD called unto him from heaven, saying, Abraham, Abraham. And he answered, Here am I. 12. And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither hurt him. For now I know that thou fearest God, and hast not spared thy only begotten son for my sake. 13. And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw a ram hanging behind him in the hedge with his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it for a burnt offering in his son's stead. 14. And Abraham called the name of the place, The LORD seeth. Wherefore it is said unto this day, In the mount where the LORD looketh. 15. And the angel of the LORD called unto Abraham again from heaven. 16. And said: I have sworn by myself, saith the LORD, because thou hast done these things, and hast not spared thy only begotten Son, 17. And I will bless thy seed, and multiply it as the stars of heaven, and as the sand upon the seashore: and thy seed shall possess the gates of his enemies. 18. And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because thou hast hearkened unto my voice. 19. So Abraham returned unto his lads, and they arose, and went together to Beer-saba, and dwelt there. 20. And it came to pass after these things, that Abraham was told, Behold, Milka has also given birth to your brother Nahor, 21. Namely, Uz the firstborn, and Bus his brother, and Kemuel, from whom the Syrians came, 22. And Chesed, and Haso, and Pildas, and Jedlaph, and Bethuel. 23. And Bethuel begat Rebekah. These eight Milcah bare unto Nahor Abraham's brother. 24. And his concubine also, whose name was Rehuma, bare Theba, and Gaham, and Thahaz, and Maachah. (Genesis) Chapter 23 Sara's death and burial. 1. sara was one hundred and twenty-seven years old 2. And she died in the capital city, which is called Hebron, in the land of Canaan. Then came Abraham to lament and weep over her. 3. And afterward he arose from his dead body, and spake unto the children of Heth, saying: 4. I am a stranger and a sojourner with you: give me an inheritance with you, that I may bury my dead which is before me. 5. And the children of Heth answered Abraham, and said unto him: 6. Hear us, O Lord! Thou art a prince of God among us: bury thy dead in our most holy graves: let no man among us forbid thee that thou bury not thy dead in his grave. 7. And Abraham arose, and bowed himself to the people of the land, even to the children of Heth. 8. And he spake unto them, saying, If it please you that I should bury my dead which is before me, hear me, and pray for me against Ephron the son of Zoar, 9. That he will give me his twofold cave, which he hath at the end of his field; and he will give it me for money, as much as it is worth, among you for an inheritance. 10. For Ephron dwelt among the children of Heth. Then Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham, and the children of Heth listened before all that went in and out of the gate of his city, and said: 11. Nay, my lord, but hear me. I give thee the field, and the cave that is therein; and I give it thee in the sight of the children of my people, to bury thy dead. 12. And Abraham bowed himself before the people of the land. 13. And he spake unto Ephron, and the people of the land hearkened unto him, saying, If thou wilt let me have him, I pray thee, take of me the money of the field which I give thee, and I will bury my dead there. 14. And Ephron answered Abraham, and said unto him: 15, My lord, hear me! The field is worth four hundred shekels of silver: but what is that between me and thee? Only bury thy dead. 16. And Abraham hearkened unto Ephron, and weighed unto him the money, which he had said that the children of Heth heard, even four hundred shekels of silver, which was common in buying. 17. So Ephron's field, wherein is the twofold cave, over against Mamre, was confirmed unto Abraham for his own possession, with the cave therein, and with all the trees that are in the field round about, 18. And the children of Heth looked on, and all that went in and out of the gate of his city. 19. And afterward Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field, which is twofold, over against Mamre, that is, Hebron, in the land of Canaan. 20. And the field was confirmed, and the cave that was therein, unto Abraham for an inheritance from the children of Heth. (Genesis) Chapter 24 Isaac marries Rebekah. 1. Abraham was old and in a good state of health, and the LORD had blessed him in every way. 2. And he said unto the eldest of his servants of his house, which had the charge of all his goods, Put thy hand under my thigh. 3. And swear unto me by the LORD God of heaven and earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell; 4. But that thou go to my fatherland, and to my friendship, and take unto thee a wife for my son Isaac. 5. And the servant said, How if the woman will not follow me into this land? shall I then bring again thy son into that land whence thou camest? 6. And Abraham said unto him, Take heed lest thou bring my son thither again. 7. The LORD God of heaven, which took me from my father's house, and from my country, and spake unto me, and sware unto me, saying, This land will I give unto thy seed; and he shall send his angel before thee, and thou shalt take a wife unto my son there. 8. But if the woman will not follow thee, thou shalt be quit of this oath. Alone bring not my son thither again. 9. And the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and sware unto him. 10. So the servant took ten camels of his master's camels, and went, having with him all his master's goods: and he arose, and went to Mesopotamia unto the city of Nahor. 11. And he made the camels lie down without the city by a well of water in the evening, when the women went out to draw water, 12. And said, O LORD God of my master Abraham, meet me this day, and do mercy unto my master Abraham. 13. Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the people of this city shall come forth to draw water. 14. And if a damsel come, and I say unto her, Incline thy pitcher, and let me drink; and she shall say: Drink, and I will water thy camels also, that she may be she which thou hast given to Isaac thy servant, and that I may know by this that thou hast shewed mercy on my lord. 15. And before he had finished speaking, behold, Rebekah the daughter of Bethuel came out, which was the son of Milcah, which was the wife of Nahor Abraham's brother, bearing a pitcher upon her shoulder. 16. And she was a very fair damsel in appearance, and yet a virgin, and no man knew her. And she went down to the well, and filled the pitcher, and went up. 17. And the servant ran to meet her, and said, Let me drink a little water out of thy pitcher. 18. And she said, Drink, my lord. And hastening, she let down the pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink. 19. And when she had given him drink, she said: I will give thy camels drink also, until they be all drunken. 20. And he hasted, and poured out the pitcher into the trough, and ran to draw water at the well, and drew water for all his camels. 21. And the man marvelled at them, and held his peace, until he knew whether the LORD had given grace unto his journey, or not. 22. And when the camels had all drunk, he took a golden clasp of the weight of half a shekel, and two bracelets on their hands of the weight of ten shekels of gold, 23. And said, My daughter, to whom belongest thou? Tell me, I pray thee. Have we room to dwell in thy father's house? 24. And she said unto him, I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, whom she bare unto Nahor. 25. And said unto him, There is plenty of straw and fodder with us, and room enough to lodge. 26. And the man bowed himself, and worshipped the LORD. 27. And said, Blessed be the LORD God of my master Abraham, which hath not left his mercy and his truth in my master: for the LORD hath led me the way to my master's brother's house. 28. And the damsel ran and told all these things in her mother's house. 29. And Rebekah had a brother, whose name was Laban: and Laban ran unto the man that was without by the well. 30. And when he saw the bracelets and armlets on his sister's hands, and heard the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, Thus said the man unto me, he came unto the man, and, behold, he stood by the camels by the well. 31. And he said, Come in, thou blessed of the LORD. Why standest thou without? I have cleared the house, and have made room for the camels also. 32. So he brought the man into the house, and unharnessed the camels, and gave them straw and provender and water to wash his feet, and the men that were with him, 33. And set food before him. But he said, I will not eat till I have first advertised my cause. They answered: Tell me! 34. He said: I am Abraham's servant. 35. And the LORD hath blessed my lord abundantly, and waxed great; and hath given him sheep, and oxen, and silver, and gold, and menservants, and maidservants, and camels, and asses. 36. And Sarah my lord's wife bare a son unto my lord in his old age; and unto him gave he all that he had. 37. And my lord hath taken an oath of me, saying, Thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell, 38. But go to my father's house, and to my family, and there take a wife for my son. 39. And I said unto my lord, How if the woman will not follow me? 40. And he said unto me, The LORD, before whom I walk, will send his angel with thee, and give grace unto thy journey, that thou mayest take a wife unto my son of my friendship, and of my father's house. 41. Then shalt thou be acquitted of my oath, when thou comest to my friendship: if they give thee not, thou shalt be acquitted of my oath. 42. So I came to the well this day, and said, O LORD God of my master Abraham, thou hast given grace unto my journey, wherefore I journeyed, 43. Behold, I stand here by the well of water. And if a virgin come forth to draw, and I say unto her, Give me a little water to drink out of thy pitcher, 44. And she shall say, Drink thou, and I will draw thy camels also, that she may be the wife which the LORD my lord hath given to his son. 45. And before I had spoken these words in mine heart, behold, Rebekah cometh forth with a pitcher upon her shoulder, and goeth down to the well, and draweth. And I said unto her, Give me to drink. 46. And she took the pitcher from her shoulder in haste, and said, Drink, and I will water thy camels also. So I drank, and she watered the camels also. 47. And I asked her, saying, Whose daughter art thou? And she answered: I am Bethuel's daughter, the son of Nahor, whom Milcah bare unto him. And I put a clasp upon her forehead, and bracelets upon her hands; 48. And I bowed myself, and worshipped the LORD, and praised the LORD God of my master Abraham, which led me in the right way to take my master's brother's son's daughter. 49. If ye then be they which will shew kindness and faithfulness unto my lord, tell me; but if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand, or to the left. 50. Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said: This is from the LORD: therefore we can speak nothing against thee, either evil or good. 51. There is Rebekah before thee; take her, and go, that she may be thy master's wife, as the LORD hath said. 52. When Abraham's servant heard these words, he bowed himself to the LORD to the ground. 53. And he brought forth jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and garments, and gave them unto Rebekah: and to her brother and to her mother he gave spices. 54. And he did eat and drink, he and the men that were with him, and tarried there all night. And in the morning he arose, and said, Let me go to my lord. 55. But her brother and her mother said: Let the damsel abide with us a day or ten, and after that thou shalt depart. 56. Then said he unto them: Stop me not, for the LORD hath given grace unto my journey. Let me go, that I may go unto my lord. 57. And they said, Let us call the damsel, and ask what she saith. 58. And they called unto Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, Yea, I will go with him. 59. So they sent Rebekah their sister away with her nurse, and Abraham's servant and his men. 60. And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister; increase in many thousands of thousands, and let thy seed possess the gates of his enemies. 61. So Rebekah arose with her damsels, and they sat upon the camels, and went after the man. And the servant took Rebekah, and went. 62. And Isaac came from the well of the living and the seeing (for he dwelt in the land toward the south) 63. And he went out to pray in the field about even, and lifted up his eyes, and saw camels coming. 64. And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and saw Isaac; and she fell down from the camel. 65. And he said unto the servant, Who is this man that cometh to meet us in the field? And the servant said, This is my lord. And she took her cloak, and covered herself. 66. And the servant told Isaac all the things which he had set forth. 675. And Isaac brought her into Sarah his mother's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife, and loved her. So Isaac was comforted concerning his mother. (Genesis) Chapter 25 Abraham's other marriage. Ishmael's and Isaac's sons. 1. And Abraham took again a wife, whose name was Keturah. 2. And she bare him Simran, and Jaksan, Medan, and Midian, Jezbak, and Shuah. 3. And Jaksan begat Seba and Dedan. And the children of Dedan were: Assurim, Letusim, and Leumim. 4. The sons of Midian were: Ephah, Epher, Hanoch, Abida, and Eldaa. These are all the children of Keturah. 5. And Abraham gave all his substance unto Isaac. 6. But unto the children which he had of the concubines he gave gifts, and sent them away from Isaac his son, because he was yet alive, toward the east. 7. Now this is the age of Abraham, that he lived an hundred and seventy and five years. 8. And he departed, and died in a quiet old age, being old and full of life; and was gathered unto his people. 9. And his sons Isaac and Ishmael buried him in the twofold cave of the field of Ephron the son of Zoar the Hittite, which is toward Mamre, 10. In the field which Abraham bought of the sons of Heth. There Abraham is buried with Sarah his wife. 11. And after the death of Abraham, God blessed Isaac his son. And he dwelt by the well of the living and the seeing. 12. This is the seed of Ishmael the son of Abraham, whom Hagar the handmaid of Sarah out of Egypt bare unto him; 13. And these are the names of the children. Ishmael, of whom their families are called: The firstborn son of Ishmael, Nebajoth; Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, 14. Misma, Duma, Masa, 15. hadar, theme, jetur, naphis and kedma. 16. These are the children of Ishmael with their names in their courts and cities, twelve princes over their people. 17. And this is the age of Ishmael, an hundred thirty and seven years: and he departed, and died, and was gathered unto his people. 18. And they dwelt from Havilah even unto Sur over against Egypt, when they go into Assyria. And he fell before all his brethren. 19. This is the seed of Isaac, Abraham's son: Abraham begat Isaac. 20. And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife, the daughter of Bethuel the Syrian, of Mesopotamia, Laban the Syrian's sister. 21. And Isaac besought the LORD for his wife, because she was barren. And the LORD made supplication, and Rebekah his wife conceived. 22. And the children thrust themselves together in her womb. And she said: Since it was so, why did I conceive? And she went to inquire of the LORD. 23. And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated out of thy womb: and the one people shall be superior unto the other, and the greater shall serve the lesser. 24. And when the time was come for her to be delivered, behold, there were twins in her womb. 25. The first that came out was reddish, all smoke like fur: and they called his name Esau. 26. And afterward came out his brother, which held the heel of Esau with his hand; and they called his name Jacob. Sixty years old was Isaac when they were born. 27. And when the lads were grown up, Esau became a hunter and a husbandman, and Jacob a godly man, and abode in the tents. 28. And Isaac loved Esau, and loved to eat of his pasture: but Rebekah loved Jacob. 29. And Jacob cooked a dish. And Esau came out of the field, and was weary. 30. And said unto Jacob, Let me taste of the red judgment; for I am weary. Therefore is his name called Edom. 31. And Jacob said, Sell me this day thy firstborn. 32. And Esau said, Behold, I must die; what then shall the firstborn be to me? 33. And Jacob said, Swear unto me this day. And he sware unto him, and so sold Jacob his firstborn. 34. And thou gavest him bread, and the dish of lentils; and he did eat and drink; and rose up, and departed. So Esau despised his firstborn. (Genesis) Chapter 26 Isaac's wanderings, dwelling, and repugnance. 1. And there came a plague into the land above that which was in Abraham's days. And Isaac went to Abimelech king of the Philistines unto Gerar. 2. And the LORD appeared unto him, and said, Go not down into Egypt, but tarry in the land which I tell thee. 3. Be a stranger in this land, and I will be with thee, and bless thee; For unto thee and unto thy seed will I give all these lands, and will confirm my oath which I sware unto Abraham thy father, 4. And I will multiply thy seed as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries. And by thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, 5. Because Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my statutes, and my commandments, and my judgments, and my laws. 6. So Isaac dwelt at Gerar. 7. And when the men of the same place asked of his wife, he said, She is my sister. For he feared to say, She is my wife: they would slay me for Rebekah's sake: for she was fair of face. 8. And it came to pass, when he had been there a while, that Abimelech king of the Philistines looked through the window, and perceived that Isaac was jesting with Rebekah his wife. 9. And Abimelech called unto Isaac, and said, Behold, she is thy wife. How hast thou then said, She is my sister? And Isaac said unto him, I thought that I might die for her sake. 10. And Abimelech said, Why hast thou done this thing unto us? It were easy for one of the people to lie with thy wife, and so thou hadst brought guilt upon us. 11. And Abimelech commanded all the people, saying, Whosoever toucheth this man, or his wife, shall surely be put to death. 12. And Isaac sowed in the land, and reaped an hundredfold in that year: for the LORD blessed him. 13. And he became a great man, and went and increased until he was almost great, 14. Because he had much substance of cattle, both small and great, and a great household. Therefore the Philistines envied him. 15. And they stopped up all the wells which his father's servants had digged in the days of Abraham his father, and filled them with earth, 16. And Abimelech said unto him, Depart from us: for thou art become too mighty for us. 17. And Isaac departed, and pitched his tent in the valley of Gerar, and dwelt there. 18. And he digged again the wells of water, which they digged in the days of Abraham his father, which the Philistines stopped up after Abraham's death, and called them by the same names that his father had called them. 19. And Isaac's servants digged in the valley, and found there a well of living water. 20. But the shepherds of Gerar quarreled with the shepherds of Isaac, saying: The water is ours. And he called the name of the well Esek, because they had wronged him there. 21. And they digged another well, and they quarreled over it: therefore it was called Sitnah. 22. And he departed thence, and digged another well, and they quarreled not: therefore he called his name Rehoboth, saying, Now hath the LORD made room for us, and caused us to grow in the land. 23. And afterward he departed from thence unto Beer-saba. 24. And the LORD appeared unto him that night, and said: I am thy father Abraham's God. Fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham's sake. 25. And he built an altar there, and preached of the name of the LORD, and pitched his tent there; and his servants digged a well there. 26. And Abimelech went unto him from Gerar, and Ahusath his friend, and Phichol his captain of the host. 27. But Isaac said unto them: Why come ye to me? Ye hate me, and have driven me from you. 28. And they said: We see with eyes that see, that the LORD is with thee. Therefore we said: Let there be an oath between us and thee, and let us make a covenant with thee, 29. That thou do us no hurt, even as we have not touched thee, and as we have done thee nothing but good, and let thee go in peace. But thou art now the blessed of the LORD. 30. And he made them a feast, and they did eat and drink. 31. And they arose early in the morning, and sware one to another: and Isaac let them go, and they departed from him in peace. 32. And the same day came Isaac's servants, and told him of the well which they had digged, and said unto him, We have found water. 33. And he called his name Sheba: therefore the name of the city is called Beer-saba unto this day. 34. And when Esau was forty years old, he took to wife Judith the daughter of Beri the Hittite, and Basmath the daughter of Elon the Hittite. 35. And they made both Isaac and Rebekah vain of heart. (Genesis) Chapter 27 Jacob is blessed by his father, antagonized by Esau. 1. And it came to pass, when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, that he called Esau his elder son, and said unto him, My son. And he answered and said unto him, Here am I. 2. And he said, Behold, I am waxed old, and know not when I shall die. 3. Now therefore take thy stuff, thy quiver, and thy bow, and go into the field, and fetch me a venison. 4. And make me meat such as I delight in, and bring it in to me to eat, that my soul may bless thee before I die. 5. And Rebekah heard these words, which Isaac spake unto Esau his son. And Esau went out into the field to hunt venison, and to bring it home. 6. And Rebekah said unto Jacob her son, Behold, I have heard thy father speak unto Esau thy brother, saying: 7. Bring me a venison, and make me a meal, that I may eat, and bless thee before the LORD, before I die. 8. Hear therefore, my son, my voice, what I call thee. 9. Go to the flock, and fetch me two good kids, that I may make thy father a dinner of them, as he is pleased. 10. This thou shalt bring in unto thy father, that he may eat, and bless thee before his death. 11. And Jacob said unto Rebekah his mother, Behold, my brother Esau is smoky, and I am smooth; 12. Then peradventure my father would understand me, and be esteemed before him, as if I would deceive him, and bring upon me a curse, and not a blessing. 13. And his mother said unto him, The curse be upon me, my son: only obey my voice, and go and fetch me. 14. And he went and fetched, and brought unto his mother. Then his mother made a meal, as his father liked, 15. And she took Esau her elder son's precious garments, which she had in her house, and put them on Jacob her younger son; 16. And she put the skins of the goats about his hands, and about his neck, where he was smooth. 17. And she gave the meat with bread, as she had made it, into Jacob's hand her son. 18. And he went in unto his father, and said, My father. And he said, Here am I. Who art thou, my son? 19. And Jacob said unto his father, I am Esau thy firstborn son: I have done as thou hast said unto me. Arise, sit down, and eat of my venison, that thy soul may bless me. 20. And Isaac said unto his son, Son, how hast thou found so soon? And he said, The LORD thy God hath brought it unto me. 21. And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, my son, that I may know thee, whether thou be my son Esau, or not. 22. So Jacob came to Isaac his father; and when he had understood him, he said, The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are Esau's hands. 23. And he knew him not, because his hands were smoky, as Esau's brother's hands; and he blessed him. 24. And he said unto him, Art thou my son Esau? And he answered, Yea, I am. 25. And he said, Bring me hither, my son, to eat of thy venison, that my soul may bless thee. And he brought it unto him, and he did eat: and he brought him wine also, and he drank. 26. And Isaac his father said unto him, Come hither, and kiss me, my son. 27. And he came near, and kissed him. Then he smelled the smell of his garments; and blessed him, saying, Behold, the smell of my son is as the smell of the field which the LORD hath blessed. 28. May God give you abundance of the dew of the sky and the fatness of the earth and grain and wine. 29. Nations shall serve thee, and people shall fall at thy feet. Be a lord over thy brethren, and thy mother's children must fall under thy feet. Cursed be he that curseth thee; blessed be he that blesseth thee. 30. And it came to pass, when Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob, and Jacob was hardly gone out from Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came from his hunting. 31. And he made a supper also, and carried it in unto his father, and said unto him, Arise, my father, and eat of thy son's venison, that thy soul may bless me. 32. And Isaac his father answered him, Who art thou? And he said: I am Esau, thy firstborn son: 33. And Isaac was sore amazed at the measure, and said, Who? where is the hunter that brought me, and I did eat of all before thou camest, and have blessed him? He also shall remain blessed. 34. And when Esau heard this saying of his father, he cried with a loud voice, and was exceeding sorrowful: and he said unto his father, Bless me also, my father. 35. And he said, Thy brother is come with guile, and hath taken away thy blessing. 36. And he said, His name is Jacob; for he hath twice trampled me under foot. He hath taken my firstborn, and, behold, he taketh away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me? 37. And Isaac answered and said unto him, I have made him lord over thee, and all his brethren have I made servants unto him; with corn and wine have I provided him: what shall I do now unto thee, my son? 38. And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me also, my father. And he lifted up his voice, and wept. 39. And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, Behold, thou shalt have a fat habitation upon the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above. 40. Thou shalt feed upon thy sword, and shalt serve thy brother. And it shall come to pass, that thou shalt also be a lord, and shalt break his yoke from off thy neck. 41. And Esau was grieved with Jacob for the blessing, that his father had blessed him: and Esau said in his heart: The time will soon come for my father to be afflicted; for I will slay my brother Jacob. 42. And these words of Esau her elder son were told Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, Behold, Esau thy brother doth threaten thee to slay thee. 43. And now hear my voice, my son, Arise, and flee unto Laban my brother in Haran, 44. And tarry with him a while, till thy brother's wrath be turned, 45. And until his wrath be turned against thee from thee, and thou forget what thou hast done unto him, then will I send for thee, and take thee hence. Why should I be deprived of you both for a day? 46. And Rebekah said unto Isaac, I am afraid to live before the daughters of Heth. If Jacob take a wife of the daughters of Heth, which are as the daughters of this land, what shall my life be? (Genesis) Chapter 28 Jacob sees the ladder to heaven on his journey. 1. And Isaac called unto Jacob his son, and blessed him; and commanded him, and said unto him, Take not a wife of the daughters of Canaan; 2. But arise, go into Mesopotamia to Bethuel thy mother's father's house, and take thee a wife there of the daughters of Laban thy mother's brother. 3. But the Almighty God bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of nations; 4. And give thee the blessing of Abraham, unto thee, and to thy seed with thee, to possess the land which thou art a stranger in, which God gave unto Abraham. 5. So Isaac made Jacob to go to Mesopotamia to Laban the son of Bethuel in Syria, the brother of Rebekah his mother and Esau's mother. 6. And when Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob, and sent him away to Mesopotamia, to take him a wife there, and that he had blessed him, he commanded him, saying, Thou shalt not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan, 7. And that Jacob obeyed his father and his mother, and went into Mesopotamia, 8. Saw also that Isaac his father was not pleased to see the daughters of Canaan: 9. And he went unto Ishmael, and took Mahalath the daughter of Ishmael the son of Abraham, the sister of Nebajoth, to wife over the wives which he had before. 10. But Jacob departed from Beer-saba, and journeyed to Haran. 11. And he came to a place where he lodged for the night, because the sun was down. And he took a stone of the place, and laid it for his head, and lay down in that place to sleep. 12. And he dreamed, and, behold, a ladder stood upon the earth, and the top thereof touched heaven: and, behold, the angels of God ascended and descended thereon. 13. And the LORD stood on the top, and said: I am the LORD thy father Abraham's God, and Isaac's God. And the land where thou liest I will give unto thee and to thy seed. 14. And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt be spread abroad toward the even, and toward the morning, and toward the north, and toward the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all kindreds of the earth be blessed. 15. And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee whithersoever thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land. For I will not leave thee, till I have done all that I have spoken unto thee. 16. And Jacob awoke from his sleep, and said, Surely the LORD is in this place, and I knew it not. 17. And was afraid, and said, How holy is this place! Here is nothing but God's house, and here is the gate of heaven. 18. And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone which he had laid for his head, and set it up for a mark, and poured oil upon it. 19. And the name of the place was Bethel: for the name of the city before was Lus. 20. And Jacob made a vow, saying, So God will be with me, and keep me in the way that I go, and give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, 21. And bring me home to my Father in peace: so shall the LORD be my God, 22. And this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be a house of God: and all that thou shalt give me I will tithe unto thee. (Genesis) Chapter 29 Jacob acquires two wives through his fourteen years of service. 1. Then Jacob lifted up his feet, and went into the east country, 2. And he looked, and, behold, there was a well in the field; and, behold, three flocks of sheep lay by it; for of the well they used to water the flocks: and there was a great stone before the hole of the well. 3. And they gathered all the flocks there, and rolled the stone from the well's hole, and watered the sheep, and put the stone again before the hole in his place. 4. And Jacob said unto them: Dear brothers, where are you from? They answered: We are of Haran. 5. And he said unto them: Do ye also know Laban the son of Nahor? They answered: We know him well. 6. And he said, Is he also well? And they answered: He is well: and, behold, his daughter Rachel cometh with the sheep. 7. And he said, It is yet high day, and it is not yet time to drive in the cattle: water the sheep, and go and feed them. 8. And they answered: We cannot till all the flocks be gathered together, and we roll the stone from the well's hole, and so water the sheep. 9. While he yet talked with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep: for she kept the sheep. 10. And when Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother's brother, and the flock of Laban his mother's brother, he came and rolled the stone from the well's hole, and watered the flock of Laban his mother's brother. 11. And kissed Rachel, and wept aloud. 12. And told her that he was her father's brother, and the son of Rebecca. And she ran and told her father. 13. And when Laban heard of Jacob his sister's son, he ran to meet him, and embraced him, and kissed him, and brought him into his house. And he told Laban all these things. 14. And Laban said unto him, Come, thou art my bone and my flesh. And now that he had been with him for a moon.., 15. And Laban said unto Jacob, Though thou be my brother, shouldest thou serve me for nought? Tell me, what shall be thy reward? 16. And Laban had two daughters: the name of the eldest was Leah, and the name of the youngest Rachel. 17; But Leah had a wicked face; Rachel was fair and beautiful. 18. And Jacob loved Rachel, and said: I will serve thee seven years for Rachel thy youngest daughter. 19. And Laban said, It is better that I give them unto thee, than to another: tarry with me. 20. So Jacob served for Rachel seven years; and it seemed unto him as if they were single days, so loved he her. 21. And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me now my wife: for the time is here for me to come in. 22. Then Laban invited all the people of the place, and made a marriage feast. 23. And it came to pass in the evening, that he took Leah his daughter, and brought her in unto him; and he lay with her. 24. And Laban gave Zilpah his maid to his daughter Leah to be his handmaid. 25. And in the morning, behold, it was Leah. And he said unto Laban, Why hast thou done this unto me? Have I not served thee for Rachel? Wherefore then hast thou deceived me? 26. And Laban said, It is not the custom in our country to give out the youngest before the oldest. 27. Endure the week with this, and I will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me another seven years. 28. So Jacob did, and endured the week. Then Laban gave him Rachel his daughter to wife. 29. And he gave to Rachel his daughter Bilhah his maid to be his handmaid. 30. And he lay with Rachel, and loved Rachel better than Leah, and served with him the rest of the seven years. 31. And when the LORD saw that Leah was worthless, he made her fruitful, and Rachel barren. 32. And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and called his name Reuben, saying, The LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now shall my husband love me. 33. And she conceived again, and bare a son, and said, The LORD hath heard that I am worthless, and hath given me this also. And he called his name Simeon. 34. And again she conceived, and bare a son, and said, Now shall my husband return unto me; for I have borne him three sons. Therefore she called his name Levi. 35. And the fourth time she conceived, and bare a son, and said, Now will I give thanks unto the LORD. Therefore she called his name Judah. And she ceased from bearing children. (Genesis) Chapter 30 Jacob's children and wealth 1. And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob nothing, she envied her sister, and said unto Jacob, Make me children. If not, then I die. 2. And Jacob was very wroth with Rachel, and said, Surely I am not God, which will not give thee the fruit of thy womb. 3. And she said, Behold, Bilhah my maid; lie with her, that she may bear upon my bosom, and that I may be edified by her. 4. And she gave him Bilhah her maid to wife: and Jacob lay with her. 5. So Bilhah conceived, and bare Jacob a son. 6. And Rachel said, God hath judged my cause, and hath heard my voice, and hath given me a son. Therefore she called his name Dan. 7. And again Bilhah Rachel's handmaid conceived, and bare Jacob the second son. 8. And Rachel said, God hath dealt with me and with my sister, and I will deal with her. And she called his name Naphtali. 9. And when Leah saw that she had left childbearing, she took Zilpah her maid, and gave her to Jacob to wife. 10. So Zilpah Leah's handmaid bare Jacob a son. 11. And Leah said, Raptly. And called his name Gad. 12. And after these things Zilpah Leah's handmaid bare Jacob his other son. 13. And Leah said, Blessed be I; for the daughters shall call me blessed. And she called his name Asser. 14. And Reuben went out in the time of wheat harvest, and found dudahim in the field, and brought them home unto his mother Leah. And Rachel said unto Leah, Give me a portion of thy son's dudahim. 15. And she said, Hast thou not had enough that thou hast taken my husband from me, and wilt thou take my son's dudahim also? And Rachel said, Well, let him sleep with thee this night for thy son's dudahim. 16. And it came to pass, when Jacob was come out of the field at even, that Leah went out to meet him, and said, Thou shalt lie with me: for I have bought thee for my son's dudahim. And he slept with her that night. 17. And God heard Leah, and she conceived, and bare Jacob the fifth son. 18. And said, God hath rewarded me, because I have given my handmaid unto my husband. And he called his name Issachar. 19. And again Leah conceived, and bare Jacob the sixth son; 20. And said, God hath well counseled me: now shall my husband dwell with me again, because I have born him six sons. And called his name Zebulun. 21. And after that she bare a daughter, and called her name Dinah. 22. And the LORD remembered Rachel, and hearkened unto her, and made her fruitful. 23. And she conceived, and bare a son, and said, God hath taken away my reproach from me. 24. And he called his name Joseph, and said, The LORD give me another son. 25. And it came to pass, when Rachel had born Joseph, that Jacob said unto Laban, Let me go, I pray thee, to my place, and to my land. 26. Give me my wives and my children, because I have served thee, that I may go: for thou hast known my service, as I have served thee. 27. And Laban said unto him, Let me find grace in thine eyes. I feel that the LORD blesses me for thy sake. 28. voice the reward which I shall give thee. 29. And he said unto him, Thou knowest how I have served thee, and what cattle thou hast had under me. 30. Thou hadst little before I came; but now it is spread abroad, and the LORD hath blessed thee by my foot. And now, when shall I also feed my house? 31. And he said, What shall I give thee then? And Jacob said, Thou shalt not give me any thing by any means: but if thou wilt do unto me as I say, I will feed and feed thy flock again. 32. I will pass through all thy flock this day, and will separate all the spotted sheep, and all the multicolored sheep, and all the black sheep among the lambs, and the multicolored goats, and the spotted goats. And whatsoever falleth multicolored and spotted shall be my reward. 33. And my righteousness shall testify unto me to day, or to morrow, when it cometh to pass, that I shall take my reward of thee: so that whatsoever is not spotted, or variegated, or black, among the lambs and goats, it shall be a stolen thing with me. 34. And Laban said, Behold, it is as thou hast said. 35. And he separated the goats that were white, and the coloured goats, and all the spotted goats, and all the coloured goats that were white, and all that were black among the lambs, and put them in the hand of his children. 36. And he made a space of three days' journey between him and Jacob. So Jacob fed the rest of Laban's flock. 37. And Jacob took staves of green poplar trees, and of hazel trees, and of chestnut trees, and peeled white stripes thereon; and the white of the staves was bare, 38. And he put the staves which he had shewed in the watering troughs before the flocks that were to come to drink, that they might receive when they came to drink. 39. So the flocks received over the staves, and brought forth sprightly, spotted, and variegated. 40. And Jacob separated the lambs, and put the separate flock with the spotted and black in Laban's flock, and made him a separate flock, and put it not with Laban's flock. 41. And when the course of the flock of the spring was, he put these staves in the gutters before the eyes of the flock, that they might receive above the staves. 42. But in the lateling's course he put them not in. So were the latelings of Laban, but the earlylings of Jacob. 43. Therefore the man was exceedingly rich, having many flocks, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses. (Genesis) Chapter 31 Jacob flees with his wife and child from his father-in-law Laban. 1. And the words of the children of Laban came before him, saying: Jacob hath brought all our father's goods unto him, and of our father's goods hath he gotten such riches. 2. And Jacob looked upon the face of Laban; and, behold, it was not against him, as it was yesterday, and as it was before yesterday. 3. And the LORD said unto Jacob, Return unto thy fathers' country, and to thy friendship; and I will be with thee. 4. And Jacob sent, and called Rachel and Leah into the field with his flock. 5. And he said unto them: I see your father's face, that it is not against me, as it was yesterday, and as it was yesterday: but the God of my father is with me. 6. And ye know that with all my strength I have served your Father. 7. And he hath deceived me, and hath changed my wages ten times: but God hath not suffered him to hurt me. 8. And when he said, The multicolored ones shall be thy reward; then the whole flock bare multicolored. And when he said, The light ones shall be thy reward, then the whole flock bare the light ones. 9. So God took your father's goods from him and gave them to me. 10. For when the time of the running was come, I lifted up mine eyes, and saw in a dream, and, behold, the goats leaped upon the herd, bright and spotted and multicoloured. 11. And the angel of God said unto me in a dream, Jacob. And I answered: Here I am. 12. And he said, Lift up thine eyes, and, behold, the goats leap upon the herd, which is full of spittle, and of spot, and of multitude: for I have seen all that Laban doeth unto thee. 13. I am the God of Bethel, because thou hast anointed the stone, and hast vowed a vow unto me there. Now arise, depart out of this land, and return unto the land of thy friendship. 14. And Rachel and Leah answered and said unto him, Surely we have no part nor inheritance left in our father's house. 15. Yet hath he kept us as strangers: for he hath sold us, and eaten up our wages. 16. Therefore hath God delivered unto our Father his riches unto us, and unto our children: All things therefore whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do. 17. So Jacob arose, and loaded his children and his wives upon camels. 18. And he carried away all his cattle, and all his substance, which he had gotten in Mesopotamia, to come unto Isaac his father unto the land of Canaan. 19. And Laban went to shear his flock: and Rachel stole her father's idols. 20. So Jacob stole the heart of Laban of Syria, because he told him not that he fled. 21. So he fled, and all that were his arose, and passed over the waters, and went to mount Gilead. 22. And it was told Laban the third day, that Jacob fled. 23. And he took his brethren, and pursued after him seven days' journey, and met him in mount Gilead. 24. But God came to Laban the Syrian in a dream by night, and said unto him: Beware that thou speak not to Jacob otherwise than kindly. 25. And Laban drew nigh unto Jacob. And Jacob pitched his tent in the mount: and Laban and his brethren pitched their tent in the mount Gilead. 26. And Laban said unto Jacob, What hast thou done, that thou hast stolen my heart, and carried away my daughters, when they were taken by the sword? 27. Why hast thou fled secretly, and stolen away, and not told me, that I might have led thee with joy, with singing, with timbrels and harps? 28. And hast thou not made me kiss my children and my daughters? Well, thou hast done foolishly. 29. And I would have so much power with the help of God, that I could do you evil: but your father's God said unto me yesterday, Beware that thou speak not unto Jacob otherwise than kindly. 30. And because thou wouldest go, and didst long for thy father's house, why didst thou steal my gods from me? 31. And Jacob answered and said unto Laban, I was afraid, and thought that thou wouldest pluck thy daughters from me. 32. But with whom thou shalt find thy gods, let him die here before our brethren. Seek thine own with me, and receive it. But Jacob did not know that she had stolen Rachel. 33. And Laban went into the tabernacle of Jacob, and into the tabernacle of Leah, and into the tabernacle of Rachel, and into the tabernacle of Jacob, and into the tabernacle of Leah, and into the tabernacle of Rachel, and into the two maidservants, and found them not. 34. And Rachel took the idols, and put them under the camels' bedding, and sat upon them. And Laban searched the whole tabernacle, and found nothing. 35. And she said unto her father, My lord, be not angry: for I cannot rise up against thee; for I am after the manner of women. So he found not the idols, as almost he sought. 36. And Jacob was wroth, and rebuked Laban, and said unto him, What have I wronged, or sinned, that thou art so hot against me? 37. thou hast touched all my goods. What hast thou found of thy household? Set it before my brethren and thy brethren, that they may judge between us. 38. These twenty years have I been with thee; thy sheep and thy goats have not been barren; the rams of thy flock have I never eaten. 39. What the beasts tore, I brought not unto thee; I had to pay for it: thou requiredst it of my hand, it was stolen from me by day or by night. 40. I languished in the day for heat, and in the night for frost, and no sleep came into mine eyes. 41. So I have served in thy house these twenty years, fourteen for thy daughters, and six for thy flock; and thou hast changed my wages tenfold. 42. If the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had not been on my side, you would have left me empty. But God looked upon my affliction and trouble, and punished thee yesterday. 43. And Laban answered and said unto Jacob, The daughters are my daughters, and the children are my children, and the flocks are my flocks; and all that thou seest is mine: what can I do unto my daughters this day, or unto their children which they have born? 44. Come now therefore, and let us make a covenant, I and thou, which shall be a testimony between me and thee. 45. And Jacob took a stone, and set it up for a mark. 46: And said unto his brethren: Pick up stones. And they took stones, and made a heap, and did eat in the same heap. 47. And Laban called his name Jegar-sahaduthah: but Jacob called his name Gilead. 48. And Laban said, Let the multitude be a witness this day between me and thee (therefore is it called Gilead). 49. And be a wait, for he said, The LORD look between me and thee, when we come one from another, 50. Wherefore thou hast offended my daughters, or taken other wives over my daughters. There is no man here with us: but, behold, God is a witness between me and thee. 51. And Laban said again unto Jacob, Behold, this is the multitude, and this is the mark which I have set up between me and thee. 52. Let this heap be a witness, and let the mark also be a witness, where I pass over unto thee, or thou pass over unto me this heap, and mark to hurt. 53. The God of Abraham, and the God of Nahor, and the God of their fathers, be judge between us. 54. And Jacob sware unto him by the fear of Isaac his father. And Jacob sacrificed in the mount, and invited his brethren to eat. And when they had eaten, they tarried in the mount overnight. 55. And Laban rose up early in the morning, and kissed his children and his daughters, and blessed them; and he departed, and returned unto his place. Ch. 32. v.1. But Jacob went his way; and the angels of God met him. 2. And when he saw them, he said, They are the armies of God: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim. (Genesis) Chapter 32 Jacob's Fear. Prayer and struggle. 3. And Jacob sent messengers before him unto Esau his brother, unto the land of Seir, in the coasts of Edom. 4. And he commanded them, saying, Thus say ye unto my lord Esau, Thy servant Jacob saith unto thee, I have been with Laban a long time without. 5. And I have oxen, and asses, and sheep, and menservants, and maidservants: and I have sent forth word unto thee, my lord, that I may find grace in thy sight. 6. And the messengers came again to Jacob, and said: We came to thy brother Esau; and he also cometh to meet thee with four hundred men. 7. And Jacob was sore afraid, and his heart was troubled: and he divided the people that were with him, and the flocks, and the herds, and the camels, into two armies. 8. And he said, If Esau come upon the one host, and smite it, the remnant shall escape. 9. And Jacob said, O God of Abraham my father, and O God of Isaac my father, O LORD, thou hast said unto me: Return unto thy land, and to thy friendship, and I will do thee good: 10. I am lowly in all thy mercy, and in all thy faithfulness, which thou hast done unto thy servant: for I had not this staff when I passed over this Jordan, and now am I become two armies. 11. Deliver me from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau: for I am afraid of him, lest he come and smite me, the mothers with the children. 12. Thou hast said, I will do thee good, and make thy seed as the sand of the sea, which cannot be numbered before the multitude. 13. And he tarried there that night, and took of that which he had present present unto his brother Esau: 14. Two hundred goats, twenty rams, two hundred sheep, twenty rams. 15. And thirty lactating camels with their colts, and forty cows, and ten bullocks, and twenty asses with ten colts; 16. And he put them under the hand of his servants, one flock by one, and said unto them: Go before me, and leave space between one flock and another. 17. And he commanded the first, saying, When Esau my brother meeteth thee, and asketh thee, To whom belongest thou? and whither wilt thou go? and what is it that thou dost set before thee? 18. And thou shalt say, It belongeth unto Jacob thy servant, which sendeth a present unto Esau his master, and goeth after us. 19. So he commanded the second and the third, and all that went after the flocks, saying, As I have said unto you, so say unto Esau, when ye meet him, 20. And say ye also, Behold, thy servant Jacob is behind us. For he thought, I will make an atonement for him with the present that goeth before me: afterward I will see him, peradventure he will accept me. 21. So the present went before him, but he tarried that night with the host. 22. And he arose in the night, and took his two wives, and his two maids, and his eleven children, and went unto the fords of Jabbok, 23. And he took them, and led them over the water, that what he had might pass over; 24. And he abode alone. Then a man wrestled with him until the dawn. 25. And when he saw that he overcame him not, he touched the joint of his thigh; and the joint of his thigh was dislocated above the wrestling with him. 26. And he said, Let me go, for the dawn is breaking. But he answered: I will not leave thee, for thou blessest me. 27. And he said, What is thy name? And he answered, Jacob. 28. And he said, Thou shalt no more be called Jacob, but Israel. For thou hast fought with God, and with men, and hast prevailed. 29. And Jacob asked him, saying, Tell me, what is thy name? And he said, Why askest thou my name? And he blessed him there. 30. And Jacob called the name of the place Pniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my soul is recovered. 31. And when he was come over before Pniel, the sun rose upon him; and he limped on his thigh. 32. Therefore the children of Israel eat no sinew in the joint of the thigh unto this day: because the sinew was touched in the joint of Jacob's thigh. (Genesis) Chapter 33 Reconciliation of Jacob with Esau. 1. And Jacob lifted up his eyes, and saw Esau his brother coming with four hundred men. And he divided his children unto Leah, and unto Rachel, and unto both his handmaids. 2. And he put the handmaids and their children in the first place, and Leah and her children after her, and Rachel and Joseph last. 3. And went before them, and bowed himself to the ground seven times, until he came to his brother. 4. And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept. 5. And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women with the children, and said, Who are these with thee? And he said, They are the children which God hath given unto thy servant. 6. And the handmaids came near with their children, and bowed themselves to him. 7. And Leah came near with her children, and bowed themselves to him. And afterward Joseph and Rachel came near, and bowed themselves to him. 8. And he said, What wilt thou have with all this host that I have met? And he said, That I may find grace in the sight of my lord. 9. And Esau said: I have enough, my brother; keep what you have. 10. And Jacob said, Alas not! If I have found grace in thy sight, take my gift out of my hand: for I have seen thy face, as I saw the face of God: and let it please thee of me. 11. But receive from me the blessing which I have bestowed upon thee: for God hath bestowed it upon me, and I have enough. So he compelled him to take it. 12. And he said, Let us depart, and travel: I will go with thee. 13. And he said unto him, My lord, thou knowest that I have tender children with me, and cattle and suckling cows: if they should overdo it one day, all the flock would die unto me. 14. Let my lord go before his servant. I will go by and by, and after that the cattle and the children shall go, until I come to my lord in Seir. 15. And Esau said, I will leave with thee some of the people that are with me. And he said, What need is there? Only let me find grace in the sight of my lord. 16. So Esau went his way again that day to Seir. 17. And Jacob went to Shukoth, and built him an house, and made tents for his cattle: therefore the name of the place is Shukoth. 18. After this Jacob went against Salem, unto the city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, (after he was come out of Mesopotamia,) and pitched before the city. 19. And he bought a piece of ground of the sons of Hemor the father of Shechem for an hundred pence; and there he pitched his tent. 20. And there he prepared an altar, and called upon the name of the strong God of Israel. (Genesis) Chapter 34 The weakening of Dina causes a bloodbath. 1. And Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she bare unto Jacob, went out to see the daughters of the land. 2. And when Shechem the son of Hemor the Hivite, which was lord of the land, saw them, he took them, and slept with them, and weakened them. 3. And his heart was set on her, and he loved the damsel, and spake kindly unto her. 4. And Shechem said unto Hemor his father, Take me the damsel to wife. 5. And Jacob heard that Dinah his daughter was defiled; and his sons were with the cattle in the field: and Jacob held his peace until they came. 6. Then went out Hemor the father of Shechem unto Jacob to speak with him. 7. And the sons of Jacob came out of the field. And when they heard it, the men were grieved, and were very wroth, because he had committed folly against Israel, and had put Jacob's daughter to sleep: for it was not to be so. 8. And Hemor spake unto them, saying, My son Shechem's heart desireth your daughter: rather, give her to him to wife. 9. Make friends with us; give us your daughters, and take you our daughters. 10. And dwell with us. The land shall be open unto you: dwell ye therein, and woo, and win. 11. And Shechem said unto her father and brethren: Let me find grace in your sight: whatsoever ye shall say unto me, that will I give. 12. Ask ye of me a present and an oblation, and I will give it as ye desire: give me only the damsel to wife. 13. And Jacob's sons answered Shechem and Hemor his father deceitfully, because Dinah their sister was defiled, 14. And they said unto them: We cannot do this, that we should give our sister to an uncircumcised man; for that would be a shame to us. 15. But then we will be at your command, that ye may be like unto us, and that every male among you may be circumcised. 16. Then will we give our daughters unto you, and your daughters shall take unto us, and we will dwell with you, and be a nation. 17. But if ye will not consent to be circumcised, we will take our daughter, and depart. 18. The speech pleased Hemor and his son well. 19. And the young man refrained not from doing these things: for he had delight in the daughter of Jacob. And he was magnified above all that were in his father's house. 20. And they came, Hemor and Sichern his son, under the gate of the city, and spake unto the inhabitants of the city, saying: 21. These men are peaceable with us, and will dwell in the land, and court: now therefore the land is wide enough for them: we will take their daughters to us to wife, and give them our daughters. 22. But then will they be willing to dwell with us, and become one people with us, where we circumcise all the males among us, even as they are circumcised. 23. Their cattle, and their goods, and all that they have, shall be ours, if we will but that they dwell with us. 24. And they obeyed Hemor, and Sichern his son, all that went in and out of the gate of his city, and circumcised every male that went in and out of his city. 25. And it came to pass on the third day, when it pained them, that the two sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brethren, took every man his sword, and went into the city in a rage, and slew all the males. 26. And they slew Hemor also, and Sichern his son, with the edge of the sword: and they took Dinah their sister out of the house of Shechem, and departed. 27. And the sons of Jacob came upon the slain, and spoiled the city, because they had defiled their sister, 28. And they took their sheep, and their oxen, and their asses, and all that was in the city, and in the field, 29. And all their goods, and all their children, and their wives, they took captive, and spoiled all that was in the houses. 30. And Jacob said unto Simeon and Levi, Ye have brought me evil, that I stink before the inhabitants of this land, the Canaanites and the Perizzites: and I am a small company. When they come together against me, they will strike me. And I shall be destroyed, I and my house. 31. And they answered, Shall they then deal with our sister as with a harlot? (Genesis) Chapter 35 Rachel dies in childbirth. 1. And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go to Bethel, and dwell there; and make there an altar unto God, which appeared unto thee, when thou fledst from thy brother Esau. 2. And Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him: Put away the strange gods that are among you, and cleanse yourselves, and change your garments. 3. And let us arise, and go to Bethel, that I may make there an altar unto God, which heard me in the time of my affliction, and was with me in the way which I went. 4. And they gave him all the strange gods that were under their hands, and their earrings; and he buried them under an oak that stood by Shechem. 5. And they went out. And the fear of God came upon the cities that were round about them, that they pursued not after the sons of Jacob. 6. So Jacob came to Luz in the land of Canaan, which is called Bethel, and all the people that were with him, 7. And he built there an altar, and called the name of the place Elbethel: because there God was revealed unto him, when he fled from his brother. 8. And Deborah, Rebekah's nurse, died, and was buried under Bethel, under the oak tree, and was called the Lamentation oak. 9. And God appeared unto Jacob again after he was come out of Mesopotamia, and blessed him. 10. And he said unto him, Thou shalt be called Jacob; but thou shalt no more be called Jacob, but Israel shalt thou be called. And so they called him Israel. 11. And God said unto him, I am the Almighty God: be fruitful, and multiply: nations and multitudes shall come of thee, and kings shall come out of thy loins. 12; And the land which I gave unto Abraham and Isaac will I give thee, and will give it unto thy seed after thee. 13. So God departed from him, from the place where he had spoken with him. 14. And Jacob set up a stone mark in the place where he had spoken unto him, and poured drink offerings upon it, and poured oil upon it. 15. And Jacob called the name of the place where God spake unto him Bethel. 16. And they departed from Bethel. And there was a little way from Ephrath, where Rachel bare. 17. And she was sore at the birth. And when she was so sore in childbirth, the wailing mother said unto her: Fear not, for this son you shall have also. 18. And when her soul was gone out to die, she called his name Benoni: but his father called his name Benjamin. 19. So Rachel died, and was buried by the way of Ephrath, which is now called Bethlehem. 20. And Jacob set up a mark over her sepulchre: the same is the sepulchre of Rachel unto this day. 21. And Israel went out, and pitched a tent beyond the tower of Eder. 22. And it came to pass, while Israel dwelt in the land, that Reuben went and slept with Bilhah his father's concubine: and it came to pass before Israel. And Jacob had twelve sons. 23. And the sons of Leah were these: Reuben the firstborn son of Jacob, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. 24. And the sons of Rachel were: Joseph and Benjamin. 25. The sons of Bilhah Rachel's handmaid: Dan and Naphtali. 26. The sons of Zilpah, Leah's handmaid: Gad and Asher. These are the sons of Jacob, which were born unto him in Mesopotamia. 27. And Jacob came to Isaac his father to Mamre, to the capital which is called Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac were strangers. 28. And Isaac was an hundred and eighty years old. 29. And he departed, and died, and was gathered unto his people, old and full of life. And his sons Esau and Jacob buried him. (Genesis) Chapter 36 Genealogical register of Esau. 1. This is the family of Esau, which is called Edom. 2. And Esau took wives of the daughters of Canaan; Adah the daughter of Elon the Hittite, and Ahalibamah the daughter of Ana, the nephew of Zibeon the Hivite; 3. And Basmath, Ishmael's daughter, Nebajoth's sister. 4. And Adah bare Eliphaz to Esau; but Basmath bare Reguel. 5. And Ahalibamah bare Jehus, and Jaelam, and Korah. These are the sons of Esau, which were born unto him in the land of Canaan. 6. And Esau took his wives, and his sons, and his daughters, and all the souls of his house, and his substance, and all his cattle, with all the goods which he had gotten in the land of Canaan, and went into a land of Jacob his brother. 7. For their substance was so great, that they could not dwell together: and the land wherein they were strangers could not bear them for the multitude of their cattle. 8. So Esau dwelt in mount Seir. And Esau is the Edom. 9. This is the family of Esau, from whom the Edomites came, in mount Seir. 10. And these are the names of the sons of Esau: Eliphaz the son of Adah, Esau's wife; Reguel the son of Basmath, Esau's wife. 11. And the sons of Eliphaz were these: Theman, Omar, Zepho, Gaetham, and Kenaz. 12. And Timmah was the concubine of Eliphaz the son of Esau, which bare him Amalek. These are the children of Adah Esau's wife. 13. And the children of Reguel are these: Nahath, Serah, Samma, Missa. These are the children of Basmath, Esau's wife. 14. And the sons of Ahalibamah, Esau's wife, the daughter of Ana, the nephew of Zibeon, which she bare unto Esau, are these; Jehus, and Jaelam, and Korah. 15. These are the princes of the sons of Esau: The sons of Eliphaz the firstborn of Esau were these; the prince Theman, the prince Omar, the prince Zepho, the prince Kenaz, 16. The prince Korah, the prince Gaetham, the prince Amalek. These are the princes of Eliphaz, in the land of Edom, and are the children of Adah. 17. And these are the sons of Reguel the son of Esau; Nahath the prince, Zerah the prince, Samma the prince, Missa the prince. These are the princes of Reguel in the land of Edom, and are the children of Basmath Esau's wife. 18. These are the sons of Ahalibamah, Esau's wife: the prince of Jehu, the prince of Jaelam, the prince of Korah. These are the princes of Ahalibamah the daughter of Ana, Esau's wife. 19. These are the children of Esau, and their princes. He is the Edom. 20. And the sons of Seir the Horite, which dwelt in the land, are these: Lothan, Shobal, Zibeon, Ana, Dison, Ezer, and Disan. 21. These are the princes of the Horites, children of Seir, in the land of Edom. 22. And the sons of Lothan were these: Hori and Heman; and Lothan's sister's name was Thimnah. 23. And the children of Sobal were these: Alwan, Manahath, Ebal, Sepho and Onam. 24. the children of Zibeon were: Aja and Ana. This is Ana, who invented mule horses in the desert as he tended his father Zibeon's donkey. 25. And the sons of Anah were: Dison and Ahalibamah, which is the daughter of Anah. 26. And the children of Dison were: Hemdan, Esban, Jethran and Charan. 27. the children of ezer were: Bilhan, Sawan and Akan 28. the children of Disan were: Uz and Man. 29. These are the princes of the Horites: the prince Lothan, the prince Shobal, the prince Zibeon, the prince Ana, 30. The prince Dison, the prince Ezer, the prince Disan. These are the princes of the Horites, which reigned in the land of Seir. 31. And the kings that reigned in the land of Edom before the children of Israel had kings are these: 32. Bela was king in Edom, the son of Beor: and the name of his city was Dinhabah. 33. And when Bela was dead, Jobab the son of Zerah of Bazrah reigned in his stead. 34. And it came to pass, when Jobab was dead, that Husham the king of the Themanites reigned in his stead. 35. And when Husham was dead, Hadad the son of Bedad reigned in his stead, who smote the Midianites in the field of Moab: and the name of his city was Avith. 36. And when Hadad was dead, Samla reigned from Masrek. 37. And when Samla was dead, Saul reigned over Rehoboth by the river. 38. And when Saul was dead, Baal Hanan the son of Achbor reigned in his stead. 39. And when Baal Hanan the son of Achbor was dead, Hadar reigned in his stead; and the name of his city was Pagu; and his wife's name was Mehetabeel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mesahab. 40. So the princes of Esau are called by their families, and by their places, and by their names: the lord Thimna, the lord Alwa, the lord Jetheth, 41. The prince Ahalibama, the prince Ela, the prince Pinon, 42. The prince Kenas, the prince Theman, the prince Mibzar, 43. Magdiel the prince, Jram the prince. These are the princes of Edom, as they dwelt in their inheritance. And Esau is the father of the Edomites. (Genesis) Chapter 37 Joseph is sold out of envy by his brothers. 1. And Jacob dwelt in the land where his father was a stranger in the land of Canaan. 2. And these are the generations of Jacob: Joseph was seventeen years old when he became a shepherd of cattle with his brethren: and the lad was with the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah his father's wives, and brought them before their father, where there was an evil cry against them. 3. And Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he begat him in his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours. 4. When therefore his brethren saw that their father loved him better than all his brethren, they were enemies to him and could not speak a kind word to him. 5. And once Joseph had a dream, and told it unto his brethren; and they became more hostile unto him. 6. For he said unto them: Hear, I pray thee, what I have dreamed. 7. And it came to pass, that we bound sheaves in the field, and my sheaf rose up, and stood, and your sheaves round about bowed down against my sheaf. 8. And his brethren said unto him, Shall thou be our king, and reign over us? And they became more hostile to him because of his dream and his speech. 9. And he had another dream, and told it his brethren, saying, Behold, I have had another dream. The sun and the moon and the eleven stars were bowing down before me. 10. And when it was told his father and his brethren, his father rebuked him, saying unto him, What dream is this that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren come and worship thee? 11. And his brethren envied him. But his father kept these words. 12. And his brethren went to feed their father's cattle in Shechem, 13. And Israel said unto Joseph, Dost not thy brethren keep the cattle in Shechem? Come, and I will send thee unto them. And he said, Here am I. 14. And he said, Go and see whether it be well with thy brethren, and with the cattle; and tell me again how it is. And he sent him out of the valley of Hebron to go to Shechem. 15. And when a man found him going astray in the field, he asked him, saying, Whom seekest thou? 16. And he answered: I seek my brethren; rather, tell me where they shepherd. 17. And the man said, They are departed thence: for I heard them say, Let us go to Dothan. So Joseph followed his brethren, and found them at Dothan. 18. And when they saw him afar off, before he came nigh unto them, they smote to kill him, 19. And they said one to another, Behold, the dreamer cometh. 20. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into a pit, and say that an evil beast hath devoured him; and it shall be seen what his dreams are. 21. And when Reuben heard it, he would have delivered him out of their hands, saying, Let us not kill him. 22. And again, Reuben said unto them: Shed not blood, but cast him into the pit that is in the wilderness, and lay not your hand upon him. And he would deliver him out of their hand, that he might bring him again unto his father. 23. And when Joseph was come to his brethren, they stripped him of his coat, with the coat of many colours that he had on; 24. And they took him, and cast him into a pit: but that pit was empty, and there was no water in it. 25. And they sat down to eat. And they lifted up their eyes, and saw a company of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead with their camels, bearing spices, and balm, and myrrh; and they went down into Egypt. 26. And Judah said unto his brethren: What profit is it that we slay our brother, and hide his blood? 27. Come, and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, that our hands be not offended against him: for he is our brother, our flesh and blood. And they obeyed him. 28. And when the Midianites the merchants passed by, they drew him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver; and they brought him into Egypt. 29. And when Reuben was come again to the pit, he found not Joseph therein, he tore his dress 30. And he came again to his brethren, and said, The lad is not there; where shall I go? 31. And they took Joseph's skirt, and slew a kid, and dipped the skirt in the blood. 32. And they sent the coat of many colours, and brought it to their father, saying, This we have found; see whether it be thy son's coat or not. 33. And he knew him, and said, It is my son's skirt; an evil beast hath devoured it, a ravening beast hath torn Joseph in pieces. 34. And Jacob rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon his loins, and mourned for his son a long time. 35. And all his sons and his daughters came up to comfort him: but he would not be comforted, and said: I will go down with sorrow into the pit to my son. And his father wept over him. 36. But the Midianites sold him in Egypt unto Potiphar, Pharaoh's chamberlain and steward. (Genesis) Chapter 38 Judah's incest with Thamar. 1. And it came to pass about that time, that Judah went down from his brethren, and joined himself to a man of Odollam, whose name was Hira. 2. And Judah saw there the daughter of a Canaanite man, whose name was Shuah; and he took her. And when he had put her to sleep, 3. And she conceived, and bare a son, and called his name Ger. 4. And she conceived, and bare a son, and called his name Onan. 5. And she bare a son, and called his name Shelah: and he was at Cheshib when she bare him. 6. And Judah gave unto Ger his first son a wife, whose name was Tamar. 7. But he was wicked in the sight of the LORD; therefore the Lord slew him. 8. And Judah said unto Onan, Lie with thy brother's wife, and take her in marriage, and raise up seed unto thy brother. 9. And when Onan knew that the seed should not be his own, if he lay with his brother's wife, he let it fall to the ground, and destroyed it, that he should not give seed unto his brother. 10. This was evil in the sight of the LORD, which he did; and he slew him also. 11. And Judah said unto Tamar his wife, Remain a widow in thy father's house, until Shelah my son be grown up. For he said, Peradventure he will die like his brethren. So Tamar went and stayed in her father's house. 12. And it came to pass, when many days were expired, that Shuah's daughter Judah's wife died. And it came to pass, when Judah had mourned, that he went up to shear his sheep to Timnath, with Hira of Odollam his shepherd. 13. And it was told Tamar, saying, Behold, thy brother in law goeth up to Timnath to shear his sheep. 14. And she put off the widow's garments which she had on, and covered herself with a mantle, and sat down at the door of the way to Thimnath: for she saw that Shelah was grown, and that she was not given to him to wife. 15. And when Judah saw her, he thought that she was a harlot, because she hid her face. 16. And he came to her by the way, and said, Let me lie with thee. For he knew not that she was his cord. And she said, What wilt thou give me, that thou mayest lie with me? 17. And he said: I will send thee a kid of the flock. And she said, Give me a pledge, till thou send it me. 18. And he said, What pledge wilt thou that I give thee? And she answered, Thy ring, and thy cord, and thy staff, which thou hast in thine hands: and he gave it her, and lay with her: and she conceived by him. 19. And she arose, and went, and put off her cloak, and put on her widow's garments. 20. And Judah sent the goat by his shepherd from Odollam, to fetch the pledge again of the woman: and he found her not. 21. And he asked the men of that place, saying, Where is the harlot that sat by the way side? They answered: There was no harlot there. 22. And he came again to Judah, and said: I have not found her: and the men of that place say that there was no harlot there. 23. And Judah said, She hath it unto her, she cannot reproach us: for I sent the goat, and thou hast not found her. 24. For three months Judah was told, Thy daughter Tamar hath whored; and, behold, she is with child in whoredom. And Judah said, Bring her forth, that she may be burned. 25. And when they brought her forth, she sent unto her brother in law, saying, Of the man that this is, I am with child. And she said, Knowest thou whose is this ring, and whose is this cord, and whose is this staff? 26. And Judah perceived it, and said, She is more righteous than I: for I gave her not to Shelah my son. But he slept no more with her. 27. And when she should have given birth, twins were conceived in her womb. 28. And when she had given birth, one hand came out. And the mother of sorrow took it, and tied a thread round it, and said, This shall be the first that cometh out. 29. And when he drew in his hand again, his brother came out; and she said, Why hast thou for thy sake torn such a breach? And they called him Perez. 30. And afterward came out his brother, which had the red thread about his hand. And they called him Serah. (Genesis) Chapter 39 Joseph's ministry, chastity and prison. 1. Joseph was brought down into Egypt: and Potiphar, an Egyptian man, Pharaoh's chamberlain and steward, bought him of the Ishmaelites, which brought him down. 2. And the LORD was with Joseph, that he might be a happy man: and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. 3. And his lord saw that the LORD was with him: for whatsoever he did, the LORD prospered through him, 4. So that he found grace in the sight of his lord, and became his servant. And he set him over his house, and all that he had he put under his hands. 5. And from the time that he had set him over his house, and over all his goods, the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had, both at home, and in the field. 6. Therefore he left all that he had in Joseph's hands, and took no thing for himself, because he had it, save that he did eat and drink. And Joseph was fair and comely in countenance. 7. And it came to pass after this, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph, and said, Sleep with me. 8. But he refused, and said unto her, Behold, my lord taketh nothing for himself in my sight, that is in the house: and all that he hath he hath put under my hands; 9. And he hath nothing so great in the house, which he hath hid from me, except thee, because thou art his wife. How then shall I do such great evil, and sin against God? 10. And she spake such words against Joseph daily. But he hearkened not unto her, that he slept nigh unto her, nor was about her. 11. And it came to pass one day, that Joseph went into the house to do his business, and there was none of the servants of the house with him. 12. And she caught him by his garment, and said, Sleep with me. But he left the garment in her hand, and fled, and ran out of the house. 13. And when she saw that he left his garment in her hand, she fled out, 14. And she called unto the servants that were in the house, and said unto them, Behold, he hath brought in the man of Egypt to put us to shame. And he came in unto me, and would have slept with me: but I cried with a loud voice. 15. And when he heard that I made a noise and cried out, he left his garment with me, and fled, and ran out. 16. And she laid his garment by his side, until his lord came home, 17. And he spake unto him the same words, saying, The same ebramite servant, whom thou hast brought in unto us, came in unto me, and wouldest have put me to shame. 18. And when I cried out, he left his garment with me, and fled out. 19. And when his lord heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, Thus hath thy servant done unto me, he was very wroth. 20. And his lord took him, and put him in the prison, where the king's prisoners were within; and he lay there in the prison. 21. But the LORD was with him, and showed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the officer over the prison, 22. That he had put under his hand all the prisoners that were in the prison, that all things which were done should be done by him. 23. For the keeper of the prison took no part in any thing: for the LORD was with Joseph, and whatsoever he did, the LORD gave it good fortune. (Genesis) Chapter 40 Joseph lays out the prisoners' dreams. 1. And it came to pass afterward, that the king's tavern keeper in Egypt, and the baker, sinned against their master the king of Egypt. 2. And Pharaoh was wroth with his two officers, with the officer over the taverns, and with the officer over the bakers, 3. And he put them in the keeper's house, in the prison, where Joseph was a prisoner. 4. And the captain of the guard set Joseph over them to minister unto them: and they sat in prison some days. 5. And both of them, the king of Egypt's minister and baker, dreamed a dream in one night, every man his own dream: and every man's dream had his own meaning. 6. And when Joseph came in unto them in the morning, he saw that they were sad, 7. And he asked them, saying, Why are ye sad to-day? 8. They answered: We have dreamed it, and have no man to interpret it unto us. And Joseph said, To interpret belongeth unto God; but tell me. 9. And the chief porter told Joseph his dream, and said unto him, I dreamed that there was a vine before me, 10. Which had three branches; and it sprouted, and grew, and blossomed, and the grapes thereof were ripe; 11. And I had Pharaoh's cup in mine hand, and took the berries, and crushed them in the cup, and gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand. 12. And Joseph said unto him, This is his interpretation: three branches are three days. 13. For three days Pharaoh shall lift up thy head, and set thee again in thy service, and thou shalt put the cup into his hand after the former manner, when thou wast his minister. 14. But remember me, if it please thee, and have mercy upon me, that thou mayest remember Pharaoh, that he may bring me out of this house. 15. For I was stolen out of the land of the Eberians by stealth: neither have I done any thing here, that they have set me up. 16. And when the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also dreamed that I had three white baskets upon my head, 17. And in the topmost basket all manner of baked meat unto Pharaoh: and the birds did eat out of the basket upon my head. 18. And Joseph answered and said, This is his interpretation: three baskets are three days. 19. And after three days Pharaoh shall lift up thy head, and hang thee on the gallows; and the birds shall eat thy flesh from thee. 20. And it came to pass on the third day, that Pharaoh celebrated his jubilee, and made a feast to all his servants, and raised up the head of the chief paster, and the head of the chief baker among his servants; 21. And he set the chief tumbler again in his tumbler office, to give the cup in Pharaoh's hand; 22. But the chief baker he hanged, as Joseph had signified unto them. 23. But the chief tavern keeper remembered not Joseph, but forgot his. (Genesis) Chapter 41 Joseph is raised to princely majesty by interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams. 1. And after two years Pharaoh had a dream, as he stood by the waters. 2. And I saw seven fat cows coming up out of the water, walking by the pasture in the grass. 3. And after these he saw other seven kine come up out of the water, ugly and lean: and they stood by the kine upon the bank by the water. 4. And the ugly and lean ones did eat the seven fair fat cows. Then Pharaoh awoke. 5. And he fell asleep again, and dreamed again, and saw seven ears of corn growing out of one stalk, full and thick. 6. And afterward he saw seven ears of thin and scorched corn spring up. 7. And the seven lean ears swallowed up the seven thick and full ears. Then Pharaoh awoke and realized it was a dream. 8. And when it was morning, his spirit was troubled, and sent and called all the diviners of Egypt, and all the wise men, and told them his dreams. But there was none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh. 9. And the chief host spake unto Pharaoh, saying: I remember my sin this day. 10. And Pharaoh was wroth with his servants, and put me in prison with the chief baker in the house of the captain of the guard, 11. Then dreamed we both in one night, every man his dream, the interpretation of which concerned him. 12. And there was with us a young man of the sons of Egypt, the chamberlain's servant, and we told him. And he interpreted our dreams unto us, every man according to his dream. 13. And as he signified unto us, so it is done: for I am restored to my office, and he is hanged. 14. And Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and sent him out of the hole in haste. And he was clothed, and put on other garments, and came in unto Pharaoh. 15. And Pharaoh said unto him, I have dreamed a dream, and there is none that can interpret it: but I have heard thee say, When thou hearest a dream, thou canst interpret it. 16. And Joseph answered Pharaoh, and said, This is not with me: surely God will prophesy good things unto Pharaoh. 17. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I dreamed that I stood by the waters on the shore. 18. And when I was come up out of the water, I saw seven fat cows of great beauty, walking by the pasture in the grass. 19. And after them I saw other seven scrawny cows come out, very ugly and lean. I have not seen such ugly ones in all the land of Egypt. 20. And the seven lean and ugly cows did eat upon the seven first fat cows. 21. And when they had eaten them up, it was not known in them that they had eaten them; and they were as ugly as before. Then I awoke. 22. And once in my dream I saw seven ears of corn growing on one stalk, full and thick. 23. And afterward there went up seven dry ears of corn, thin and scorched. 24. And the seven thin ears swallowed up the seven thick ears. And I have told it unto the diviners, but they cannot interpret it unto me. 25. And Joseph said unto Pharaoh, Both Pharaoh's dreams are one. For God tells Pharaoh what He intends to do. 26. The seven good cows are seven years, and the seven good ears of corn are also the seven years. It is the same dream. 27. The seven lean and ugly kine that came up after them are seven years: and the seven lean and scorched ears of corn are seven years of costly time. 28. Now this is that I said unto Pharaoh, that God would shew Pharaoh what he would do. 29. Behold, seven years of plenty shall come upon all the land of Egypt. 30. And after them shall come seven years of trouble, and all the abundance of the land of Egypt shall be forgotten: and the trouble shall consume the land, 31. That nothing shall be known of the fulness in the land before the precious time that cometh after: for it shall be almost heavy. 32. And that Pharaoh dreamed the second time signifieth that God will surely and speedily do this thing. 33. Now Pharaoh looketh for a man of understanding and wisdom, whom he shall set over the land of Egypt, 34. And he shall appoint officers in the land, and take the fifth in the land of Egypt in the seven years of plenty; 35. And gather all the food of the good years that shall come, and heap up corn in Pharaoh's granaries for a store in the cities, and keep it, 36. That food may be found ordained for the land in the seven costly years that shall come upon the land of Egypt, that the land be not destroyed for hunger. 37. And the speech pleased Pharaoh well, and all his servants. 38. And Pharaoh said unto his servants: How can we find such a man in whom is the Spirit of God? 39. And said unto Joseph, Because God hath made all these things known unto thee, there is none so understanding and wise as thou. 40. Thou shalt be over my house, and unto thy word shall all my people obey: of the king's throne alone will I be higher than thou. 41. And Pharaoh said again unto Joseph, Behold, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. 42. And he took his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and clothed him in white silk, and put a chain of gold upon his neck. 43. And he made him ride in his other chariot, and proclaimed before him: He is the father of the land. And he set him over all the land of Egypt. 44. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I am Pharaoh: without thy will shall no man lift up his hand or his foot in all the land of Egypt. 45. And called him the secret council. And he gave him a wife, Asnath the daughter of Potipherah the priest of On. So Joseph went forth to see the land of Egypt. 46. And he was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt: and he departed from Pharaoh, and went throughout all the land of Egypt. 47. And the land did so the seven rich years; 48. And they gathered all the meat of the seven years that were in the land of Egypt, and put it into the cities. And whatsoever food was growing in the field of any city round about, that they put therein. 49. So Joseph heaped up the corn, as much as the sand of the sea, so that he ceased to count it; for it could not be counted. 50. And unto Joseph were born two sons before the precious time came, which Asnath the daughter of Potipherah the priest bare unto him. 51. And he called the first Manasseh: for God, said he, hath made me forget all my calamities, and all my father's house. 22. And the other he called Ephraim: for God, said he, hath made me to grow in the land of my affliction. 53. And when the seven years of plenty were expired in the land of Egypt, 54. And the seven years of trouble began to come, when Joseph had spoken of them. And there was a famine in all the land: but there was bread in all the land of Egypt. 55. And when all the land of Egypt was also famished, the people cried unto Pharaoh for bread. And Pharaoh said unto all the Egyptians, Go unto Joseph; whatsoever he saith unto you, do. 56. And it came to pass, when there was a famine throughout all the land, that Joseph opened cornhouses every where, and sold unto the Egyptians. For the longer the famine continued, the greater was the famine in the land. 57. And all the countries of Egypt came to buy of Joseph: for the famine was great in all the countries. (Genesis) Chapter 42 Journey of the sons of Jacob into Egypt, without Benjamin. 1. And when Jacob saw that corn was sold in Egypt, he said unto his sons: Why do you look around so long? 2. Behold, I hear that there is corn in Egypt: go down and buy us corn, that we may live, and not die. 3. So ten of Joseph's brethren went down to buy corn in Egypt. 4. But Benjamin Joseph's brother would not let Jacob go with his brethren: for he said, An accident may befall him. 5. So the children of Israel came to buy corn, and others with them: for it was dear in the land of Canaan. 6. But Joseph was the ruler of the land, and sold corn unto all the people of the land. And when his brethren came unto him, they fell down to the earth upon their faces before him. 7. And he looked upon them, and knew them; and stood strange against them, and spake hard unto them, and said unto them: Whence come ye? And they said: Out of the land of Canaan, to buy meat. 8. But though he knew them, yet knew they him not. 9. And Joseph remembered the dreams which he had dreamed of them, and said unto them: Ye are spies, and are come to see where the land is open. 10. And they said unto him, Nay, my lord; thy servants are come to buy meat. 11. We are all the sons of one man; we are upright; and thy servants have never been spies. 12. And he said unto them: Nay, but ye are come to see where the land is open. 13. And they said unto him, We thy servants are twelve brethren, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan; and the youngest is yet with our father; but the one is no more. 14. And Joseph said unto them: This is it that I said unto you: Ye are spies. 15. By this I will try you: by the life of Pharaoh ye shall not come hence, except your youngest brother come hither. 16. Send one of you to fetch your brother, and ye shall be taken captive. So will I try your words, whether ye deal in truth, or not. For if not, by the life of Pharaoh ye are spies. 17. And he kept them together three days. 18. And the third day he said unto them: If ye would live, do so: for I fear GOD. 19. If ye be upright, let one of your brethren lie bound in your prison: but go ye, bring home that which ye have bought for hunger, 20. And bring your youngest brother unto me, and I will believe your words, that ye die not. And they did so. 21. And they said among themselves: This we did unto our brother, that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hearken unto him: therefore is this tribulation come upon us. 22. And Reuben answered them, and said, Did I not tell you, saying, Sin not against the lad, and ye would not hear? Now his blood is required. 23. And they knew not that Joseph understood: for he spake unto them through an interpreter. 24. And he turned from them, and wept. And when he turned again unto them, and spake unto them, he took of them Simeon, and bound him before their eyes; 25. And Joseph commanded that they should fill their sacks with corn, and return their money, every man into his sack, and victuals for the way. And they did so unto them. 26. And they loaded their merchandise upon their asses, and departed thence. 27. And when a man had opened his sack to feed his ass in the inn, he perceived his money that was in the top of the sack. 28. And he said unto his brethren: My money is restored unto me; behold, it is in my sack. Then their hearts fell from them, and they were afraid among themselves, and said: Why hath God done this unto us? 29. And when they were come home to Jacob their father into the land of Canaan, they told him all that they had met with, saying: 30. The man that is master in the land spake hard unto us, and took us for spies of the land. 31. And when we answered him: We are honest, and have never been spies, 32. But twelve brethren the sons of our father: one is left, and the youngest is yet with our father in the land of Canaan: 33. And the LORD said unto us in the land, By this I will know whether ye are upright: leave one of your brethren with me, and take the necessaries of your house, and go; 34. And bring your youngest brother unto me, and I will know that ye are not spies, but that ye are upright: and I will give you your brother also, and ye shall go forth into the land. 35. And when they had poured out the sacks, they found every man his little bundle of money in his sack. And when they saw that they were bundles of their money, they were afraid, they and their father. 36. And Jacob their father said unto them: Ye rob me of my children: Joseph is no more, Simeon is no more, Benjamin will ye take away; it is all gone over me. 37. And Reuben answered his father, and said, If I bring him not again unto thee, slay my two sons: only deliver him into my hand, and I will bring him again unto thee. 38. And he said, My son shall not go down with you, because his brother is dead, and he is left alone: if any accident should befall him in the way as ye go up, ye would bring my gray hairs into the pit with sorrow of heart. (Genesis) Chapter 43 Journey of the sons of Jacob to Egypt with Benjamin. 1. but the dearth pressed the land. 2. And when they had eaten up all the corn that they had brought out of Egypt, their father said unto them: Go again, and buy us a little meat. 3. Then Judah answered him, and said: And the man bound us hard, and said: Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you. 4. If then thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy food for thee; 5. But if thou send him not, we will not go down. For the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, but your brother shall be with you. 6. And Israel said, Why have ye done so evil unto me, as to tell the man how ye have another brother? 7. And they answered: The man inquired so closely of us and of our friendship, saying, Is your father yet alive? Have ye also any brother? Then we told him as he asked us. How could we know just now that he would say: Bring your brother down with you? 8. And Judah said unto Israel his father, Let the lad go with me, that we may arise and journey, and live, and not die, both we, and thou, and our little ones. 9. I will be surety for him; thou shalt require him at my hand. If I bring him not again unto thee, and set him before thine eyes, I will bear the iniquity all the days of my life. 10. For if we had not gone away, we should have returned twice. 11. And Israel their father said unto them: If it be so, do it, and take of the best fruits of the land into your sacks, and bring down gifts unto the man, a little balm, and honey, and spices, and myrrh, and dates, and almonds. 12. Take ye also other money with you; and the money that is returned unto you above in your sacks, bring ye also again with you. Perhaps there has been a mistake. 13. Therefore take your brother, arise, and come again to the man. 14. But may God Almighty have mercy upon you in the sight of the man, that he leave you your other brother and Benjamin. But I am like one who is deprived of his children. 15. And they took these presents and the money double with them, and Benjamin, and rose up, and went into Egypt, and stood before Joseph. 16. And Joseph saw them with Benjamin, and said unto his steward, Bring these men home, and slay, and prepare: for they shall eat with me at noon. 17. And the man did as Joseph had told him, and brought the men into Joseph's house. 18. And they were afraid when they were brought into Joseph's house, and said: We are brought in for the money which we found in our sacks aforetime, that he may bring it upon us, and execute judgment upon us, that he may take us for his own servants, and our asses with him. 19. Therefore they came to Joseph's steward, and spake unto him at the door of the house. 20. And said: My lord, we came down a little while ago to buy food. 21. And when we were come into the inn, and had opened our sacks, behold, every man's money was in the top of his sack with full weight: therefore we brought it again with us, 22. have also brought down other money with us to buy meat: but we know not who hath put our money into our sacks. 23. And he said, Be at ease, fear not. Your God and your father's God hath given you treasure in your sacks. Your money is become mine. And he brought Simeon out unto them. 24. And he brought them into Joseph's house, and gave them water to wash their feet, and fed their asses. 25. And they made ready the present until Joseph came at noon: for they had heard that they should eat bread there. 26. And when Joseph was come into the house, they brought him home the present in their hands, and fell down to the ground before him. 27. And he greeted them kindly, and said, Is your father well, the old man, of whom ye told me? is he yet alive? 28. And they answered: Thy servant our father is well, and yet liveth. And they bowed themselves, and fell down before him. 29. And he lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother's son, and said: Is this your youngest brother, since you told me of him? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son. 30. And Joseph made haste, because his heart burned against his brother, and sought where he wept; and went into his chamber, and wept there. 31. And when he had washed his face, he went out, and held himself, and said, Put on bread. 32. And they charged him specially, and them also specially, and the Egyptians also specially that did eat with him. For the Egyptians must not eat bread with the Ebrams, for it is an abomination in their sight. 33. And they set them against him, the firstborn according to his firstborn, and the youngest according to his youth. And they wondered among themselves. 34. And they set meat before them of his table: but Benjamin had five times more than the rest. And they drank, and were drunken with him. (Genesis) Chapter 44 Joseph's brothers are being hard-pressed. 1. And Joseph commanded his steward, saying, Fill the men's sacks with meat, as much as they may carry, and put every man's money in the top of his sack. 2. And put my silver cup in the top of the young man's sack with the money for the corn. And he did as Joseph had said unto him. 3. And it came to pass in the morning, when it was light, that they sent the men away with their asses. 4. And when they were gone out of the city, and were not far off, Joseph said unto his steward, Go, pursue after the men, and when thou seest them, speak unto them: Why have ye requited good with evil? 5. Is not this that my lord drinketh of, and that he may know? Ye have done evil. 6. And when he had taken hold of them, he spake unto them these words. 7. And they said unto him, Why saith my lord these words? Far be it from thy servants to do such a thing. 8. Behold, the money that we found in the top of our sacks we have brought again unto thee out of the land of Canaan. How then should we have stolen silver or gold out of the house of thy lord? 9. With whomsoever he be found among thy servants, let him be put to death: and we also will be my lord's servants. 10. And he said, Yea, it shall be as ye have spoken. With whomsoever he be found, let him be my servant: but ye shall be free. 11. And they hasted, and laid every man his sackcloth upon the earth, and opened every man his sackcloth. 12. And he searched, and began at the greatest unto the last: and the cup was found in Benjamin's sack. 13. And they rent their clothes, and loaded every man upon his ass, and returned into the city. 14. And Judah went with his brethren into Joseph's house, because he was yet there: and they fell down to the ground before him. 15. And Joseph said unto them: How have ye been able to do this? Know ye not that such a man as I am might guess? 16. And Judah said, What shall we say unto my lord, or how shall we speak, and what shall we justify ourselves? God hath found the iniquity of thy servants. Behold, we and he with whom the cup is found are my lord's servants. 17. And he said, Far be it from me to do this thing. The man with whom the cup is found shall be my servant: but go ye up in peace unto your father. 18. And Judah came to him, and said, My lord, let thy servant speak a word in thine ears, my lord; and let not thine anger be kindled against thy servant: for thou art as Pharaoh. 19. And my lord asked his servants, saying, Have ye also a father, or a brother? 20. Then answered we: We have a father that is old, and a young lad born in his old age; and his brother is dead, and he is left alone of his mother, and his father loveth him. 21. Then saidst thou unto thy servants: Bring him down unto me, and I will shew him mercy. 22. And we said unto my lord, The lad cannot come from his father: if he came from him, he would die. 23. Then saidst thou unto thy servants: Where your youngest brother cometh not hither with you, ye shall see my face no more. 24. Then we went up unto thy servant my father, and told him my lord's speech. 25. And our father said, Go again, and buy us a little meat. 26. And we said: We cannot go down, except our youngest brother be with us, and we will go down: for we cannot see the man's face, where our youngest brother is not with us. 27. And thy servant my father said unto us, Ye know that my wife hath borne me two sons. 28. One went out from me, and was said to be torn: and have not seen him hitherto. 29. If ye also take this man from me, and an accident befall him, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow into the pit. 30. Now if I came home to thy servant my father, and the lad were not with us, because his soul clave unto this soul, 31. And it shall come to pass, when he seeth that the lad is not there, that he shall die: then shall we thy servants bring the gray hairs of thy servant, our father, into the pit with sorrow of heart: 32. For I thy servant became surety for the lad against my father, saying, If I bring him not again unto thee, I will bear the iniquity all my life. 33. Therefore let thy servant abide here in the lad's stead, the servant of my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren. 34. For how shall I go up to my father, if the lad be not with me? I would have to see the wretchedness that would meet my father. (Genesis) Chapter 45 Joseph makes himself known to his brothers. 1. And Joseph could no longer refrain himself from all that stood about him: and he cried, Let every man go out from me. And there stood no man with him, when Joseph confessed with his brethren. 2. And he cried with a loud voice, and the Egyptians and Pharaoh's servants heard it. 3. And said unto his brethren: I am Joseph. Is my father yet alive? And his brethren could not answer him; so they were afraid before his face. 4. And he said unto his brethren: Come near me. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold in Egypt. 5. And now be not grieved, neither think that I am angry because ye have sold me hither: for for your life's sake God hath sent me before you. 6. For these are two years, that it is dear in the land; and there are yet five years, that there shall be no plowing nor reaping. 7. But God hath sent me before you, to preserve you in the earth, and to save your lives by a great salvation. 8. And now, ye sent me not hither, but God, who hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord over all his house, and a ruler in all the land of Egypt. 9. Make haste therefore, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Joseph thy son saith unto thee, God hath made me lord of all the land of Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not. 10. Thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and shalt be nigh unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy cattle great and small, and all that thou hast. 11. I will provide for thee there: for there are yet five years of tribulation: lest thou perish with thy house, and with all that thou hast. 12. Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that I speak unto you by word of mouth. 13. Declare unto my Father all my glory in Egypt, and all that ye have seen; make haste, and come down hither with my Father. 14. And he fell on the neck of Benjamin his brother, and wept: and Benjamin also wept on his neck. 15. And he kissed all his brethren, and wept over them. Afterward his brethren talked with him. 16. And when the cry came into Pharaoh's house, that Joseph's brethren were come, it pleased Pharaoh well, and all his servants. 17. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Tell thy brethren: Do thus unto him, load your beasts, go, 18. And when ye are come into the land of Canaan, take your father and your household, and come unto me; and I will give you goods in the land of Egypt, and ye shall eat the marrow of the land. 19. And give them charge: Do so unto him, take unto you out of the land of Egypt chariots for your children and your wives, and lead your father, and come. 20. And see not your household goods: for the goods of all the land of Egypt shall be yours. 21. And the children of Israel did so. And Joseph gave them chariots according to Pharaoh's commandment, and victuals for the way. 22. And gave unto them all, every one, one ceremonial garment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver and five ceremonial garments. 23. And he sent unto his father ten asses laden with goods out of Egypt, and ten asses laden with corn and bread and meat for his father's journey. 24. So he left his brethren, and they went, and said unto them: Quarrel not in the way. 25. So they went up from Egypt, and came into the land of Canaan unto Jacob their father. 26. And they told him, saying: Joseph is yet alive, and is a ruler in all the land of Egypt. But his heart thought much otherwise, because he believed them not. 27. And they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had spoken unto them. And when he saw the chariots which Joseph had sent him to bring him, the spirit of Jacob their father was quickened. 28. And Israel said: I am satisfied that my son Joseph is yet alive; I will go and see him before I die. (Genesis) Chapter 46 Jacob's journey to Egypt to his son Joseph. 1. And Israel went with all that he had. And when he was come to Beer-saba, he offered sacrifices unto the God of Isaac his father. 2. And God said unto him in the night in his vision, Jacob, Jacob. And he said, Here am I. 3. And he said: I am GOD, the GOD of thy father; fear not to go down into Egypt, for there will I make thee a great nation. 4. I will go down with thee into Egypt, and will bring thee up also: and Joseph shall put his hands upon thine eyes. 5. And Jacob arose from Beer-saba; and the children of Israel brought Jacob their father, and their little ones, and their wives, in the chariots which Pharaoh had sent to bring him. 6. And they took their cattle and their substance, which they had gotten in the land of Canaan, and came into Egypt, Jacob and all his seed with him. 7. His children, and his children's children with him, his daughters, and his children's daughters, and all his seed, brought he with him into Egypt. 8. These are the names of the children of Israel, which came into Egypt: Jacob and his sons. The firstborn of Jacob's son, Reuben. 9. the children of Reuben: Hanoch, Pallu Hezron and Charmi. 10. The sons of Simeon; Jemuel, and Jamin, and Ohad, and Jachin, and Zohar, and Saul the son of the Canaanitish woman. 11. the children of Levi: Gerson, Kahath, and Meran. 12. The sons of Judah; Ger, and Onan, and Shelah, and Perez, and Zerah. And Ger and Onan died in the land of Canaan. And the sons of Perez; Hezron, and Hamul. 13. the children of Issachar: Thola, Phua, Job and Simron. 14. And the sons of Zebulun; Zered, and Elon, and Jahleel. 15. These are the sons of Leah, which she bare unto Jacob in Mesopotamia, with Dinah his daughter: all these, sons and daughters, make thirty and three souls. 16. the children of Gad: Ziphion, Haggi, Suni, Ezbon, Eri, Modi and Areli. 17. And the sons of Asher; Jemnah, and Jesua, and Jesui, and Briah, and Serah their sister. But the children of Briah: Heber and Malchiel. 18. These are the sons of Zilpah, which Laban gave to Leah his daughter, and bare Jacob these sixteen souls. 19. The children of Rachel Jacob's wife; Joseph and Benjamin. 20. And unto Joseph were born in the land of Egypt Manasseh and Ephraim, which bare him Asnath the daughter of Potipherah the priest of On. 21. And the sons of Benjamin; Bela, and Becher, and Asbel, and Gera, and Naaman, and Ehi, and Ros, and Muppim, and Huppim, and Ard. 22. These are the sons of Rachel, which were born unto Jacob; all fourteen souls. 23. the children of Dan: Husim. 24. And the sons of Naphtali; Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Sillem. 25. These are the sons of Bilhah, which Laban gave to Rachel his daughter, and bare Jacob the seven souls. 26. All the souls that came with Jacob into Egypt, which were of his loins, (except the wives of his children,) were all together threescore and six souls. 27. And the sons of Joseph, which were born in Egypt, were two souls: so that all the souls of the house of Jacob, which came into Egypt, were threescore and ten. 28. And he sent Judah before him to Joseph, to instruct him to go to Goshen. And they came into the land of Goshen. 29. And Joseph harnessed his chariot, and went up to meet his father Israel at Goshen. And when he saw him, he fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a long time. 30. And Israel said unto Joseph, I will gladly die now, after I have seen thy face, that thou art yet alive. 31. And Joseph said unto his brethren, and to his father's house, I will go up, and tell Pharaoh, and say unto him: My brethren and my father's house are come unto me out of the land of Canaan. 32. And are pastors of cattle: for they are men that handle cattle: their cattle, both small and great, and all that they have, they have brought with them. 33. And when Pharaoh shall call you, and say, What is your meat? 34. And ye shall say, Thy servants are cattle-keepers from our youth even until now, both we and our fathers; that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen. For the shepherding of cattle is an abomination to the Egyptians. (Genesis) Chapter 47 Jacob dwelleth in the land of Goshen. The famine is great in Egypt. 1. And Joseph came and told Pharaoh, and said, My father and my brethren, and their cattle, both small and great, and all that they have, are come out of the land of Canaan: and, behold, they are in the land of Goshen. 2. And he took five of his youngest brethren, and set them before Pharaoh. 3. And Pharaoh said unto his brethren: What is your food? And they answered: Thy servants are shepherds of cattle, we and our fathers. 4. And they said unto Pharaoh, We are come to dwell with you in the land: for thy servants have no pasture for their cattle, because the famine oppresseth the land of Canaan: now therefore let thy servants dwell in the land of Goshen. 5. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, It is thy father, and thy brethren, which are come unto thee; 6. The land of Egypt is open unto thee: let them dwell in the best part of the land, let them dwell in the land of Goshen: and if thou knowest that there be men of valour among them, set them over my cattle. 7. And Joseph brought in Jacob his father also, and set him before Pharaoh. And Jacob blessed Pharaoh. 8. And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, How old art thou? 9. And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of my pilgrimage are an hundred and thirty years: the days of my life are few and evil, and are not as the days of my fathers in their pilgrimage. 10. And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from him. 11. And Joseph made his father and his brethren to dwell, and gave them an estate in the land of Egypt, in the best part of the land, even in the land of Raemses, as Pharaoh commanded. 12. And he fed his father, and his brethren, and all his father's house, every one after he had children. 13. And there was no bread in all the earth: for the famine was so sore, that the land of Egypt and Canaan fainted from the famine. 14. And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in Egypt and in Canaan for the corn which they bought: and Joseph put all the money into Pharaoh's house. 15. And it came to pass, when there was a scarcity of money in the land of Egypt and in Canaan, that all the Egyptians came to Joseph, saying, Make us bread. Why sufferest thou us to die before thee, because we are without money? 16. And Joseph said, Bring forth your cattle, and I will give you for the cattle, because ye are without money. 17. And they brought Joseph their cattle, and he gave them bread for their horses, and for their sheep, and for their oxen, and for their asses. So he fed them with bread all the year round for all their cattle. 18. And when the year was expired, they came to him the next year, and said unto him, We will not hide it from our lord, that not only the money, but all the cattle also, are gone to our lord, and there is nothing left before our lord, but our bodies and our field. 19. Why wilt thou suffer us to die before thee, and our field? Buy us and our land for bread, that we and our land may be servants unto Pharaoh: give us seed, that we may live, and not die, and that the field be not desolate. 20. So Joseph bought all Egypt of Pharaoh. For the Egyptians sold every man his field, because the famine was too great for them. And the land was Pharaoh's own. 21. And he divided the people into cities, from one place of Egypt even unto another. 22. Except the priests' field, which he bought not: for it was decreed of Pharaoh for the priests, that they should feed upon that which he had given them: therefore they could not sell their field. 23. And Joseph said unto the people, Behold, I have bought you this day, and your field unto Pharaoh: behold, ye have seed, and sow the field. 24. And of the corn ye shall give the fifth part unto Pharaoh: four parts shall be yours to sow the field, for your meat, and for your house, and for your children. 25. And they said: Only let us live, and find grace in the sight of thee our Lord: we will gladly be servants unto Pharaoh. 26. So Joseph made them a law unto this day concerning the field of Egypt, to give the fifth to Pharaoh; except the field of the priests, which was not Pharaoh's own. 27. So Israel dwelt in Egypt, in the land of Goshen, and possessed it, and grew and multiplied greatly. 28. And Jacob lived seventeen years in the land of Egypt: and all his days were an hundred and forty and seven years, 29. And when the time was come for Israel to die, he called Joseph his son, and said unto him, If I have found grace in thy sight, put thy hand under my thigh, that thou mayest love and keep me, and bury me not in Egypt; 30. But I will lie with my fathers, and thou shalt bring me out of Egypt, and bury me in their buryingplace. And he said: I will do as thou hast said. 31. And he said, Swear unto me. And he sware unto him. And Israel bowed himself on the bed to the heads. (Genesis) Chapter 48 Jacob's testament because of Ephraim and Manasseh 1. And afterward Joseph was told, Behold, thy father is sick. And he took with him his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. 2. And it was told Jacob, saying, Behold, thy son Joseph cometh unto thee. And Israel made himself strong, and sat down in the bed. 3. And said unto Joseph, The Almighty God appeared unto me in Luz, in the land of Canaan, and blessed me. 4. And he said unto me, Behold, I will cause thee to grow, and multiply thee, and make thee a multitude of people: and I will give this land unto thy seed after thee for an everlasting possession. 5. Now therefore thy two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, which were born unto thee in the land of Egypt, before I came in unto thee, shall be mine, even as Reuben and Simeon. 6. And they which thou begettest after them shall be thine, and shall be called as their brethren in their inheritance. 7. And it came to pass, when I was come out of Mesopotamia, that Rachel died to me in the land of Canaan by the way of Ephrath, which was yet a highway: and I buried her there by the way of Ephrath, which is now called Bethlehem. 8. And Israel saw the sons of Joseph, and said, Who are these? 9. And Joseph said unto his father, They are my sons, which God hath given me here. And he said, Bring them hither unto me, that I may bless them. 10. For the eyes of Israel were dim with age, and could not well see. And he brought them unto him. And he kissed them, and embraced them. 11. And said unto Joseph, Behold, I have seen thy face, which I thought not of: and, lo, God hath made me to see thy seed also. 12. And Joseph took them from his bosom, and bowed himself to the earth toward his face. 13. And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand against Israel's left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand against Israel's right hand, and brought them unto him. 14. And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon the head of Ephraim the youngest, and his left hand upon the head of Manasseh: and he did so with his hands, knowing that Manasseh was the firstborn. 15. And he blessed Joseph, and said, God, before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, God, who hath nourished me all my life unto this day, 16. The angel that delivered me from all evil, bless the children, that they may be called by my name, and by the name of my fathers, Abraham and Isaac; that they may grow and multiply upon the earth. 17. And when Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand upon Ephraim's head, it displeased him: and Joseph took hold of his father's hand, and turned it from Ephraim's head unto Manasseh's head, 18. And said unto him, Not so, my father: this is the firstborn, lay thy right hand upon his head. 19. But his father refused, and said: I know well, my son, I know well. This also shall be a nation, and shall be great: but his youngest brother shall be greater than he, and his seed shall be a great nation. 20. So he blessed them that day, and said, Whosoever shall bless any man in Israel, let him say, God set thee as Ephraim and Manasseh. And he set Ephraim before Manasseh. 21. And Israel said unto Joseph, Behold, I die; and God shall be with you, and shall bring you again unto the land of your fathers. 22. I have given thee a piece of land beside thy brethren, which I took out of the hand of the Amorites with my sword and with my bow. (Genesis) Chapter 49 Jacob's prophecy and farewell. 1. And Jacob called his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you what shall befall you in the days to come. 2. Come ye in multitude, and give ear, ye children of Jacob, and hear your father Israel. 3. Reuben, my first son, thou art my strength, and my first power, the chief in sacrifice, and the chief in the kingdom. 4. He passed away as the waters. Thou shalt not be chief; For thou hast gone up to thy father's bed; There thou hast defiled my bed with the going up. 5. The brothers Simeon and Levi their swords are murderous weapons. 6. Let not my soul enter into their council, neither let my glory be in their church: for in their anger they have slain the man, and in their wantonness they have corrupted the ox. 7. Cursed be their wrath, because it is fierce; and their fury, because it is vexatious. I will divide them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel. 8. Judah, thou art he: thy brethren shall praise thee. Thy hand shall be upon the neck of thine enemies; Thy father's children shall bow down to thee. 9. Judah is a young lion. Thou art come up, my son, by great victories. He hath bowed down and lain down like a lion, and like a lioness: who will rise up against him? 10. The sceptre shall not be taken away from Judah, nor a master from his feet, until the coming of the hero: and the nations shall cleave unto him. 11. He shall bind his colt to the vine, and the son of his ass to the noble branches. He shall wash his garment in wine, and his mantle in the blood of the vine. 12. His eyes are redder than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk. 13. Zebulun shall dwell at the fords of the sea, and at the fords of the ships, and shall abide at Sidon. 14. Issachar shall be a legged ass, and shall lie down between the borders. 15. And he saw the rest that it was good, and the land that it was pleasant: but he straitened his shoulders to bear, and became an interest-bearing servant. 16. Dan shall be a judge among his people, as another generation in Israel. 17. Dan shall become a serpent in the way, and an adder in the stile, and shall bite the horse in the heel, and his rider shall fall back. 18. O Lord, I wait for thy salvation! 19. Gad, armed, shall lead the army, and shall lead it about again. 20. From Asher cometh his fat bread, and he shall do favor to the kings. 21. naphthali is a fast stag and gives beautiful speech. 22. Joseph shall grow, he shall grow as at a spring. The daughters come forth in regiment. 23. And though the archers anger him, and war against him, and persecute him, 24. Yet his bow remaineth firm, and the arms of his hands strong, by the hands of the mighty one in Jacob. Out of them are come shepherds and stones in Israel. 25. From thy Father's God thou art helped, and from the Almighty thou art blessed with blessings above from heaven, with blessings from beneath, with blessings in breasts and in bellies. 26. The blessings of thy father are greater than the blessings of my forefathers, according to the desire of the high ones of the world: and they shall come upon the head of Joseph, and upon the crown of Nazir among his brethren. 27. Benjamin is a ravening wolf: in the morning he shall devour the prey, but in the evening he shall divide the spoil. 28. These are the twelve tribes of Israel, all of them: and this is what their father spake unto them, when he blessed them, every one with a blessing. 29. And he commanded them, and said unto them: I am gathered unto my people: bury me with my fathers in the cave of the field of Ephron the Hittite, 30. In the twofold cave that is toward Mamre, in the land of Canaan, which Abraham bought, and the field, of Ephron the Hittite, for an inheritance. 31. And there they buried Abraham, and Sarah his wife. And there they buried Isaac, and Rebekah his wife. There also have I buried Leah, 32.. In the field, and in the cave, which is bought of the children of Heth. 33. And when Jacob had made an end of commanding his children, he put his feet together upon the bed, and passed away, and was gathered unto his people. Chap. Chap. 50, v.1. Then Joseph fell on his father's face, and wept over him, and kissed him. (Genesis) Chapter 50 Jacob is buried. Joseph dies. 2. And Joseph commanded his servants the physicians to anoint his father. And the physicians anointed Israel, 3. Until forty days were expired: for so long were the days of anointing. And the Egyptians wept over him seventy days. 4. And when the days of suffering were ended, Joseph spake unto Pharaoh's servants, saying, If I have found grace in your sight, speak unto Pharaoh, and say: 5. My father hath taken an oath of me, saying, Behold, I die; bury me in my grave, which I have digged for myself in the land of Canaan. Now therefore I will go up, and bury my father, and come again. 6. And Pharaoh said, Go up, bury thy father, as thou swarest unto him. 7. So Joseph went up to bury his father. And there went up with him all Pharaoh's servants, and the elders of his house, and all the elders of the land of Egypt, 8. And all Joseph's household, and his brethren, and his father's household. Only their children, and their flocks, and their herds, left they in the land of Goshen. 9. And they also went up with him chariots and horsemen, and were almost a great host. 10. And when they were come to the threshingfloor of Atad, which is on the other side Jordan, they mourned a very great and bitter lamentation: and he mourned for his father seven days. 11. And when the people of the land, the Canaanites, saw the lamentation at the threshingfloor of Atad, they said: The Egyptians have a great lamentation there. Wherefore the place of the Egyptians is called Lamentation, which is on the other side Jordan. 12. And his children did as he commanded them, 13. And they brought him into the land of Canaan, and buried him in the twofold cave of the field, which Abraham had bought with the field for the inheritance of Ephron the Hittite over against Mamre. 14. And when they had buried him, Joseph went again into Egypt with his brethren, and with all that went up with him to bury his father. 15. And Joseph's brethren were afraid, because their father was dead, and said: Joseph will be angry with us, and will repay us for all the evil we have done him. 16. Therefore they said unto him, Thy father commanded before his death, saying: 17. And ye shall say unto Joseph, Forgive thy brethren their iniquity, and their sin, because they have done so evil unto thee. Forgive now, O my beloved, the iniquity of us the servants of thy father's God. But Joseph wept when they spake these things unto him. 18. And his brethren went and fell down before him, and said, Behold, we are thy servants. 19. And Joseph said unto them: Fear not, for I am under GOD. 20. Ye thought to do evil unto me: but God thought to do it well, to do as it is now in the day, to preserve much people. 21. Fear not therefore; I will provide for you, and for your children. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them. 22. So Joseph dwelt in Egypt with his father's house, and lived an hundred and ten years. 23. And he saw the children of Ephraim unto the third generation. And likewise the children of Machir the son of Manasseh begat children in Joseph's bosom. 24. And Joseph said unto his brethren: I die, and GOD will visit you and bring you out of this land into the land which He swore to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. 25. Therefore he took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, When God shall visit you, carry away my bones from thence. 26. So Joseph died when he was an hundred and ten years old. And they anointed him, and laid him in an ark in Egypt. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second book of Moses (Exodus) ^ Chapter 1 The children of Israel's servitude and tribulation in Egypt. 1. These are the names of the children of Israel, which came into Egypt with Jacob; every man entered in with his household: 2. Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, 3. Isashar, Zebulun, Benjamin, 4. Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asser 5. And of all the souls that came out of the loins of Jacob there were seventy. And Joseph was before in Egypt. 6. Now when Joseph was dead, and all his brethren, and all that were alive at that time, 7. And the children of Israel begat children, and multiplied; and they multiplied exceedingly, and the land was full of them. 8. And there arose a new king in Egypt, which knew not Joseph; 9. And said unto his people, Behold, the people of the children of Israel are many and more than we. 10. Well, let us restrain them with stratagems, that there be not so many of them. For if there be a war, they will join themselves to our enemies, and fight against us, and go forth to the land. 11. And they set officers over them, to oppress them with heavy service: for they built for Pharaoh the cities of Pithon and Raemses for treasuries. 12. But the more they oppressed the people, the more they multiplied and spread abroad. And they held the children of Israel as an abomination. 13. And the Egyptians compelled the children of Israel to service with ruthlessness. 14. And made their lives grievous with hard labour in the clay and bricks, and with all manner of mirth in the field, and with all manner of work, which they laid upon them with unmercifulness. 15. And the king of Egypt spake unto the women of Egypt, whose name was Siphra, and the name of the other Puah: 16. If ye help the women of Egypt, and see in the throne that it is a son, slay him: but if it be a daughter, let her live. 17. But the wombs feared GOD, and did not as the king of Egypt had said unto them, but let the children live. 18. Then the king of Egypt called unto the mothers of sorrow, and said unto them: Why do ye this, that ye suffer the children to live? 19. And the women said unto Pharaoh, The women of Egypt are not like the women of Egypt: for they are hard women: before the mother of sorrow cometh to them, they have given birth. 20. Therefore God did good unto the worshippers. And the people multiplied and became very many. 21. And because the women feared God, he built them houses. 22. And Pharaoh commanded all his people, saying, Every son that is born cast into the water, and every daughter let live. (Exodus) Chapter 2 Moses' birth, upbringing, escape, and marriage. 1. And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took a daughter of Levi. 2. And the woman conceived, and bare a son. And when she saw that it was a fine child, she hid him three months. 3. And when she could hide him no longer, she made a little box of reed, and glued it together with clay and pitch, and put the child therein, and laid him in the reeds by the riverside. 4. But his sister stood afar off, to know how he was. 5. And Pharaoh's daughter went down to bathe in the water, and her maidens walked by the brink of the water. And when she saw the box in the reeds, she sent her maid to fetch it. 6. And when she had opened it, she saw the child; and, behold, the babe wept. And she mourned, and said, There is one of the children of Egypt. 7. And his sister said unto Pharaoh's daughter, Shall I go and call one of the women of Egypt that suckle, that she may suckle thy young child? 8. And Pharaoh's daughter said unto her, Go thy way. And the damsel went and called the mother of the child. 9. And Pharaoh's daughter said unto her, Take the young child, and suckle it, and I will reward thee. And the woman took the child, and suckled it. 10. And when the child was grown, she brought him unto Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son; and she called his name Moses; for she said: I drew him out of the water. 11. In those days, when Moses was grown up, he went out unto his brethren, and saw their burden, and perceived that an Egyptian smote one of his brethren the children of Egypt. 12. And he turned to and fro, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and buried him in the sand. 13. And the next day he went out, and saw two men of the Jews quarrelling together: and he said unto the unjust man: Why smitest thou thy neighbour? 14. And he said, Who made thee ruler or judge over us? wilt thou slay me also, as thou slewest the Egyptian? And Moses was afraid, and said, How is this thing spoken? 15. And it came to pass before Pharaoh, that he sought Moses to slay him. And Moses fled from Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian, and dwelt by a well. 16. And the priest that was in Midian had seven daughters, which came to draw water, and filled the gutters to water their father's sheep. 17. And the shepherds came, and thrust them away. But Moses arose, and helped them, and watered their sheep. 18. And when they were come to Reguel their father, he said, How came ye so soon this day? 19. And they said: An Egyptian man delivered us from the shepherds, and drew us, and watered the sheep. 20. And he said unto his daughters: Where is he? Why have ye left the man, that ye invited him not to eat with us? 21. And Moses consented to abide with the man. And he gave unto Moses his daughter Ziporah. 22. And she bare a son, and called his name Gershom: for he said: I am become a stranger in a strange land. (And she bare another son, and he called his name Eliezer, and said, The God of my father is my helper, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Pharaoh.) 23. And after a long time the king died in Egypt. And the children of Israel groaned over their work, and cried out; and their crying over their work came before God. 24. And God heard their lamentations, and remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 25. And he looked, and took care of them. (Exodus) Chapter 3 Moses is called to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt. 1. Now Moses was tending the sheep of Jethro his brother-in-law the priest of Midian, and he drove the sheep behind him into the wilderness, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a fiery flame out of the bush. And he saw that the bush burned with fire, and was not consumed. 3. And he said: I will go and see this great vision, why the bush burneth not. 4. And when the LORD saw that he went to see, God called unto him out of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he answered, Here am I. 5. And he said, Come not near. Put off thy shoes from off thy feet: for the place where thou standest up is a holy land. 6. And he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses covered his face, because he feared to look upon God. 7. And the LORD said: I have seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry against them that do them wrong; I have known their sorrow. 8. And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them out of this land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey, unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 9. Because the cry of the children of Israel is come before me, and I have seen their fear, as they feared the Egyptians, 10. So go now, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, to bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt. 11. And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt? 12. He said: I will be with thee. And this shall be a sign unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth my people out of Egypt, then ye shall sacrifice unto God in this mountain. 13. And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and speak unto them: The GOOD of your fathers hath sent me unto you, and they shall say unto me: What is his name? what shall I say to them? 14. And God said unto Moses, I will be who I will be. And said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I will be he that sent me unto you. 15. And God said unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you. This is my name for ever, that I may be remembered for ever. 16. Go therefore, gather together the elders of Israel, and say unto them: The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto me, saying, I have visited you, and have seen that which is done unto you in Egypt. 17. And I said, I will bring you out of the affliction of Egypt into the land of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, into the land that floweth with milk and honey. 18. And when they hear thy voice, then thou and the elders of Israel shall go in unto the king of Egypt, and say unto him, The LORD God of Egypt hath called us. Now therefore let us go three days' journey into the wilderness, to sacrifice unto the LORD our God. 19. But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go without a strong hand. 20. For I will stretch out my hand, and smite Egypt with all manner of wonders which I will do within. After that he will let you go. 21. And I will give grace unto this people in the sight of the Egyptians; and when ye go forth, ye shall not go forth empty; 22. But every woman shall require of her neighbour and of her household vessels of silver and of gold, and raiment; and ye shall put them upon your sons and upon your daughters, and shall take them of the Egyptians. (Exodus) Chapter 4 Moses is strengthened in his profession with the gift of performing miracles. 1. And Moses answered and said, Behold, they will not believe me, nor hear my voice, but will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee. 2. And the LORD said unto him, What is this that thou hast in thine hand? And he said, A staff. 3. And he said, Cast him from thee unto the earth. And he cast him from him; and he became a serpent. And Moses fled from before it. 4. And the LORD said unto him, Put forth thy hand, and catch it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and held it: and it became a rod in his hand. 5. Therefore shall they believe that the LORD God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee. 6. And the LORD said unto him, Put thine hand into thy bosom. And he put it into his bosom, and drew it out: and, behold, it was leprous as snow. 7. And he said, Put her again into the bosom. And he put them again into his bosom, and drew them out: and, behold, they were again as his other flesh. 8. If therefore they believe thee not, nor hear thy voice at one sign, yet shall they believe thy voice at the other sign. 9. And if they will not believe these two signs, nor hear thy voice, then take the water out of the river, and pour it upon the dry land; and the same water which thou hast taken out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land. 10. And Moses said unto the LORD, O my LORD, I have not been well spoken ever since thou spakest unto thy servant: for I am slow of speech, and slow of tongue. 11. And the LORD said unto him, Who made man's mouth, or who made him dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Have not I done it, the LORD? 12. Go thy way therefore: I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. 13. And Moses said, My Lord, send whom thou wilt send. 14. And the LORD was very wroth with Moses, and said, Know I not that Aaron thy brother, of the tribe of Levi, is eloquent? And, behold, he shall go out to meet thee, and when he seeth thee, he shall rejoice with his heart. 15. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put the words in his mouth. And I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and teach you; what ye shall do. 16. And he shall speak unto the people for thee; he shall be thy mouth, and thou shalt be his God. 17. And take this rod in thine hand, that thou mayest do signs. 18. And Moses went, and came again to Jethro his brother in law, and said unto him, Let me go, I pray thee, that I may return unto my brethren which are in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive. And Jethro said unto him, Go in peace. 19. And the LORD said unto him in Midian, Go, return into Egypt: for the people are dead which sought thy life. 20. So Moses took his wife and his sons, and led them on an ass, and returned into the land of Egypt; and he took the rod of God in his hand. 21. And the LORD said unto Moses, See thou return into Egypt, and do all the wonders in Pharaoh's sight, which I have delivered into thine hand: and I will harden his heart, that he will not let the people go. 22. And thou shalt say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my firstborn son; 23. And I command thee that thou send my son away, and that he serve me. If thou refuse, I will slay thy firstborn son. 24. And when he was come to the inn, the LORD met him, and would have killed him. 25. And Zipora took a stone, and circumcised the foreskin of her son, and touched his feet, and said, Thou art a bridegroom of blood unto me. 26. And he departed from him. And she said blood bridegroom for circumcision's sake. 27. And the LORD said unto Aaron, Go out to meet Moses in the wilderness. And he went and met him in the mount of God, and kissed him. 28. And Moses told Aaron all the words of the LORD which he had sent him, and all the signs which he commanded him. 29. And they went and gathered together all the elders of the children of Israel. 30. And Aaron spake all the words which the LORD spake unto Moses, and did the signs before the people. 31. And the people believed. And when they heard that the LORD had visited the children of Israel, and had looked upon their affliction, they bowed themselves, and worshipped. (Exodus) Chapter 5 Moses is despised by Pharaoh and the people are even more frightened. 1. And Moses and Aaron went in, and said unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may feast in the wilderness. 2. And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, whose voice I must hear, and let Israel go? I know not of the LORD, neither will I let Israel go. 3. And they said, God the Eberian hath called us: now therefore let us go three days' journey into the wilderness, and sacrifice unto the LORD our God, lest pestilence or sword befall us. 4. And the king of Egypt said unto them: Thou, Moses, and Aaron, why will ye set the people free from their work? Go to your service. 5. And Pharaoh said, Behold, the people are already too many in the land, and ye will yet call them to feast from their service. 6. Therefore Pharaoh commanded the same day the captains of the people, and their officers, saying: 7. No more shall ye gather straw unto the people, and give them to burn brick, as heretofore: let them go and gather straw themselves; 8. And the number of the bricks which they have made hitherto shall ye lay up for them, and shall not diminish: for they go idle, therefore they cry, and say: We will go and sacrifice unto our God. 9. Press the people with labour, that they may work, and not turn aside to false speech. 10. And the reeves of the people and their officers went out, and said unto the people, Thus saith Pharaoh, They will not give you straw. 11. Go ye yourselves, gather you straw where ye may find it: but of your labour nothing shall be diminished. 12. And the people scattered themselves throughout all the land of Egypt, to gather stubble, that they might have straw. 13. And the reeves drove them, and said: Fulfil your day's work, as when ye had straw. 14. And the officers of the children of Israel, whom Pharaoh's princes had set over them, were smitten, and it was said unto them, Why have ye not done your appointed day's work this day, nor yesterday, as ye did before? 15. And the officers of the children of Israel went in, and cried unto Pharaoh, Wherefore wilt thou go thus with thy servants? 16. They shall not give straw unto thy servants, neither shall they make the bricks that are appointed for us: and, behold, thy servants are smitten, and thy people must be sinners. 17. And Pharaoh said: Ye are idle, idle ye are: therefore say ye, We will go and sacrifice unto the LORD. 18. Go ye therefore, and indulge yourselves. They shall not give you straw, but the number of the bricks ye shall give. 19. And the officers of the children of Israel saw that it was worse, because it was said, Ye shall not diminish any of the day's work of the bricks. 20. And when they departed from Pharaoh, they met Moses and Aaron, and stood against them. 21. And they said unto them: The LORD look upon you, and judge it, that ye have made our smell to stink before Pharaoh and his servants, and have put the sword into their hands to slay us. 22. And Moses came again unto the LORD, and said, O LORD, why doest thou this evil unto this people? Why hast thou sent me hither? 23. For since I went in unto Pharaoh to speak unto him in thy name, he hath afflicted the people more severely; and thou hast not delivered thy people. Ch. 6, v. 1: And the LORD said unto Moses, Now shalt thou see what I will do unto Pharaoh: for by a strong hand he must let them go, he must drive them out of his land by a strong hand. (Exodus) Chapter 6 Moses gets a new command from God; describes his birth record. 2. And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am the LORD, 3. And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, to be their Almighty God: but my name, O LORD, was not manifested unto them. 4. Also I have established my covenant with them, to give them the land of Canaan, the land of their pilgrimage, wherein they were strangers. 5. And I have heard the lamentation of the children of Israel, which the Egyptians have afflicted with indulgence; and I have remembered my covenant. 6. Therefore say unto the children of Israel, I am the LORD, and will bring you out from your burdens in Egypt, and will deliver you from your afflictions, and will redeem you with an outstretched arm, and with great judgments; 7. And I will receive you for a people, and will be your God, and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God, which have brought you up out of the burdens of Egypt. 8. And have brought you into the land which I have lifted up mine hand to give unto Abraham, and to Isaac, and to Jacob; and I will give it you for an inheritance, even I the LORD. 9. Moses told these things unto the children of Israel: but they hearkened not unto him for groaning, and for fear, and for hard labour. 10. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 11. Go in and speak unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, that he let the children of Israel out of his land. 12. And Moses spake before the LORD, saying, Behold, the children of Israel hear me not: how then shall Pharaoh hear me? For I am of uncircumcised lips. 13. So the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, and commanded them the children of Israel, and Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt. 14. These are the heads of every generation of the fathers. The children of Reuben, the first son of Israel, are these: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, Charmi. These are the families of Reuben. 15. The sons of Simeon are these: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Saul the son of the Canaanite woman: these are the families of Simeon. 16. These are the names of the sons of Levi in their families; Gershon, Kohath, Merari. But Levi was an hundred and thirty and seven years old. 17. The children of Gershon are these: Libni and Simei in their generations. 18. The sons of Kohath are these: Amram, Jezear, Hebron, Uzziel. And Kohath was an hundred thirty and three years old. 19. the children of Merari are these: Maheli and Musi. These are the families of Levi in their tribes. 20. And Amram took Jochebed his wife, and she bare him Aaron and Moses. And Amram was an hundred thirty and seven years old. 21. The children of Jezear are these: Korah, Nepheg, Sichri. 22. The children of Uzziel are these: Misael, Elzaphan, Sithri. 23. And Aaron took to wife Eliseba the daughter of Amminadab, Nahasson's sister: and she bare him Nadab, and Abihu, and Eleazar, and Ithamar. 24. The sons of Korah are these: Assir, Elkanah, Abiasaph. These are the families of the Korahites. 25. And Eleazar Aaron's son took of the daughters of Putiel a wife, and she bare him Phinehas. These are the heads of the fathers of the families of the Levites. 26. This is Aaron and Moses, unto whom the LORD said, Bring forth the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt with their armies. 27. These are they which spake unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt, even Moses and Aaron. 28. And the LORD spake unto Moses that day in the land of Egypt. 29. And said unto him, I am the LORD: speak unto Pharaoh king of Egypt all that I speak unto thee. 30. And he answered before the LORD, Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips: how then will Pharaoh hear me? (Exodus) Chapter 7 Turning water into blood. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, I have set thee a god over Pharaoh; and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet. 2. Thou shalt speak all that I command thee: but Aaron thy brother shall speak it before Pharaoh, that he let the children of Israel go out of his land. 3. But I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and will shew my signs and wonders in the land of Egypt. 4. And Pharaoh shall not hear you, that I may shew my hand in Egypt, and bring my host, my people, the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments. 5. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out mine hand upon Egypt, and take away the children of Israel from them. 6. And Moses and Aaron did as the LORD commanded them. 7. And Moses was fourscore years old, and Aaron eighty and three years old, when they spake unto Pharaoh. 8. And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron: 9. When Pharaoh shall say unto you: Prove your wonders, then thou shalt say unto Aaron, Take thy rod, and cast it before Pharaoh, that it may become a serpent. 10. And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and did as the LORD commanded them. And Aaron cast his rod before Pharaoh, and before his servants; and it became a serpent. 11. Then Pharaoh called for the wise men and the magicians. And the Egyptian magicians also did so with their summoning. 12. And every man cast his rod from him, and serpents came out of him: but Aaron's rod swallowed up their rods. 13. So Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and hearkened not unto them, as the LORD had said. 14. And the LORD said unto Moses, Pharaoh's heart is hard; he refuseth to let the people go. 15. Go unto Pharaoh to morrow. Behold, he shall go unto the waters: stand thou against him by the riverside, and take in thine hand the rod that became a serpent, 16. And say unto him, The LORD God of the Eberians hath sent me unto thee, saying, Leave my people, that they may serve me in the wilderness. But thou hast not hearkened hitherto. 17. Therefore thus saith the LORD; By this shalt thou know that I am the LORD. Behold, with the rod that is in mine hand will I smite the waters that are in the river, and they shall be turned into blood, 18. And the fishes shall die in the river, and the river shall stink, and the Egyptians shall be disgusted to drink of the water of the river. 19. And the LORD said unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Take thy rod, and stretch forth thine hand upon the waters of Egypt, upon their brooks, and upon their rivers, and upon their lakes, and upon all the rivers of water, that they may become blood, and be blood throughout all the land of Egypt, both in vessels of wood and in vessels of stone. 20. And Moses and Aaron did as the LORD commanded them, and took up the staff, and smote the waters that were in the river before Pharaoh and his servants. And all the water that was in the river was turned into blood. 21. And the fish died in the river, and the river stank, that the Egyptians could not drink of the water of the river: and there was blood throughout all the land of Egypt. 22. And the Egyptian magicians also did so with their conjurings. So Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and hearkened not unto them, as the LORD had said. 23. And Pharaoh turned himself, and went home, and took it not to heart. 24. But all the Egyptians digged for water round about the river to drink: for of the water of the river they could not drink. 25. And it continued seven days, that the LORD smote the river. (Exodus) Chapter 8 Egypt is plagued with frogs, lice and vermin. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Suffer my people to serve me. 2. If thou refuse, behold, I will plague all thy border with frogs, 3. And the river shall swarm with frogs: they shall creep up, and come into thine house, and into thy chamber, and into thy bed, and into the houses of thy servants, and among thy people, and into thy ovens, and into thy doughs; 4. And the frogs shall crawl upon thee, and upon thy people, and upon all thy servants. 5. And the LORD said unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Stretch forth thine hand with thy rod over the rivers, and over the streams, and over the lakes, and let frogs come upon the land of Egypt. 6. And Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt, and frogs came up, and covered the land of Egypt. 7. And the magicians also did so with their conjurings, and caused frogs to come upon the land of Egypt. 8. Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Entreat the LORD for me, that he take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people sacrifice unto the LORD. 9. And Moses said, Have thou the honour before me, and tell me when I shall pray for thee, and for thy servants, and for thy people, that the frogs may be driven from thee, and from thy house, and be left alone in the river. 10. And he said, To morrow. And he said, As thou hast said. That thou mayest know that there is none like the LORD our God, 11. Then shall the frogs be taken from thee, and from thy house, and from thy servants, and from thy people, and shall be left alone in the river. 12. So Moses and Aaron went from Pharaoh. And Moses cried unto the LORD for the frogs, as he had promised Pharaoh. 13. And the LORD did as Moses had said: and the frogs died in the houses, and in the courts, and in the fields. 14. And they heaped them together, here a heap, and there a heap: and the land stank of them. 15. And when Pharaoh saw that he had caught his breath, his heart was hardened, and hearkened not unto them, as the LORD had said. 16. And the LORD said unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Stretch forth thy rod, and smite the dust of the earth, that there may be lice in all the land of Egypt. 17. And they did so, and Aaron put forth his hand with his rod, and smote the dust of the earth: and there were lice upon the men, and upon the cattle; and all the dust of the land became lice throughout all the land of Egypt. 18. The magicians also did so with their conjurings, that they might bring forth lice; but they could not. And the lice were both on men and on cattle. 19. And the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This is the finger of God. But Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and hearkened not unto them, as the LORD had said. 20. And the LORD said unto Moses, Arise early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh, (behold, he shall go to the waters,) and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Leave my people to serve me; 21. If not, behold, I will bring all manner of vermin upon thee, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people, and upon thy house; and all the houses of Egypt, and the field, and all that is therein, shall be filled with vermin. 22. And I will do a special thing in that day unto the land of Goshen, when my people shall abstain, that there be no vermin there: that thou mayest know that I am the LORD in all the earth. 23. And I will set a redemption between my people and thy people: to morrow shall the sign be. 24. And the LORD did so, and there came much vermin into Pharaoh's house, and into the houses of his servants, and over all the land of Egypt: and the land was destroyed with vermin. 25. And Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Go, sacrifice unto your God here in the land. 26. And Moses said, It is not meet that we should do so: for we would offer the abominations of the Egyptians unto our God the LORD: behold, if we should offer the abominations of the Egyptians before their eyes, would they not stone us? 27. Three days' journey will we go into the wilderness, and sacrifice unto the LORD our God, as he hath said unto us. 28. And Pharaoh said: I will suffer you to sacrifice unto the LORD your God in the wilderness; only that ye go not farther, and pray for me. 29. And Moses said, Behold, when I come forth from thee, I will pray the LORD, and this beast shall be taken away from Pharaoh, and from his servants, and from his people, to morrow in the day: but deceive me no more, that thou leave not the people to sacrifice unto the LORD. 30. And Moses went out from Pharaoh, and besought the LORD. 31. And the LORD did as Moses had said, and took away the beasts from Pharaoh, and from his servants, and from his people, that there remained not one. 32. But Pharaoh hardened his heart also the same time, and let not the people. (Exodus) Chapter 9 Pestilence. Black pox. Hail. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Ebramites, Let my people serve me. 2. where you refuse to do so and continue to hold them back, 3. Behold, the hand of the LORD shall be upon thy cattle of the field, upon horses, upon asses, upon camels, upon oxen, upon sheep, with an almost grievous pestilence. 4. And the LORD shall make a difference between the cattle of the children of Israel and the cattle of the Egyptians, that none of them which the children of Israel have shall die. 5. And the LORD appointed a time, saying, To morrow the LORD will do these things in the earth. 6. And the LORD did so in the morning; and all the cattle of the Egyptians died, but not one of the cattle of the children of Israel died. 7. And Pharaoh sent after, and, behold, there died not one of the cattle of Israel. But Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he would not let the people go. 8. And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron, Take your fists full of soot out of the furnace, and let Moses cast it up to heaven before Pharaoh, 9. And there shall be dusts in all the land of Egypt, and evil sores shall come up in all the land of Egypt, both on men and beasts. 10. And they took soot out of the furnace, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses sprinkled it toward heaven. And there came up evil black poxes, both on men and beasts, 11. So that the magicians could not stand before Moses for the evil palsies: for there were evil palsies in the magicians as well as in all the Egyptians. 12. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, that he would not hear them: as the LORD said unto Moses. 13. And the LORD said unto Moses, Arise early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD GOD the Eberian, Let my people serve me. 14. And this time will I send all my plagues upon thee, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people; and thou shalt know that there is none like me in all the earth. 15. For now will I stretch out mine hand, and smite thee and thy people with pestilence, and thou shalt be destroyed from off the face of the earth. 16. For this cause have I raised thee up, that my power might appear in thee, and that my name might be declared in all the earth. 17. Thou hast yet trampled my people under thee, and wilt not leave them. 18. Behold, to morrow about this time I will rain a very great hail, such as hath not been in Egypt since the time it was founded, until now. 19. And now send, and keep thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field. For every man and beast that is found in the field, and is not gathered into the houses, when the hail cometh upon them, shall die. 20. And he that feared the word of the LORD among the servants of Pharaoh sent away his servants and his cattle into the houses. 21. But whose hearts turned not to the word of the LORD, they left their servants and their cattle in the field. 22. And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch forth thine hand toward heaven, that it may rain upon all the land of Egypt, upon men, and upon cattle, and upon every herb of the field in the land of Egypt. 23. So Moses stretched forth his rod toward heaven, and the LORD thundered and hanged with fire upon the earth. So the LORD rained hail upon the land of Egypt, 24. That hail and fire lead among themselves, so cruel, that the like thereof had never been in all the land of Egypt, since time men were therein. 25; And the hail smote throughout all the land of Egypt all that was in the field, both man and beast, and smote every herb of the field, and brake every tree of the field. 26. Only in the land of Goshen, where the children of Israel were, there was no hail. 27. And Pharaoh sent, and called Moses and Aaron, and said unto them: I have sinned this time: the LORD is righteous, but I and my people are wicked. 28. But pray ye the LORD, and let the thunders and hailings of God cease; and I will send you away, and ye shall dwell here no longer. 29. And Moses said unto him, When I come out of the city, I will stretch forth my hands unto the LORD, and the thunder shall cease, and there shall be no more hail; that thou mayest know that the earth is the LORD's. 30. But I know that thou and thy servants fear not yet God the LORD. 31. So the flax and the barley were smitten: for the barley had shot, and the flax had gathered knots. 32. But the wheat and the rye were not smitten, because the corn was late. 33. And Moses went out from Pharaoh unto the city, and spread abroad his hands against the LORD: and the thunder and the hail ceased, and the rain fell no more upon the earth. 34. And when Pharaoh saw that the rain, and the thunder, and the hail ceased, he sinned further, and hardened his heart, he and his servants. 35. So Pharaoh's heart was hardened, because he would not let the children of Israel go, as the LORD had spoken by Moses. (Exodus) Chapter 10 Locusts and darkness. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh: for I have hardened his heart, and the heart of his servants, to do these signs of mine among them, 2. And that thou mayest declare in the ears of thy children, and of thy children's children, what I have wrought in Egypt, and how I have shewed my signs among them; that ye may know that I am the LORD. 3. So Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD GOD the Eberian; How long wilt thou refuse to humble thyself before me, that thou wilt suffer my people to serve me? 4. If thou refuse to let my people go, behold, tomorrow I will send locusts in every place, 5. And they shall cover the land, that the land may not be seen: and they shall devour that is left you, and deliver you from the hail; and they shall devour all your green trees of the field; 6. And they shall fill thy house, and the houses of all thy servants, and the houses of all the Egyptians, such as thy fathers and thy fathers' fathers have not seen since they were upon the earth until this day. And he turned, and went out from Pharaoh. 7. And Pharaoh's servants said unto him, How long shall we be afflicted with this? Let the people go, that they may serve the LORD their God. Wilt thou know first that Egypt is fallen? 8. And Moses and Aaron were brought again unto Pharaoh, and he said unto them: Go and serve the LORD your God. But which are they that should go? 9. And Moses said, We will go with young and old, with sons and daughters, with flocks and herds: for we have a feast of the LORD. 10. And he said unto them: Awe yes, the LORD be with you! Shall I let you and your children go with them? Behold, if ye intend no evil. 11. Not so; but go ye men, and serve the LORD: for this also have ye sought. And they were thrust out of Pharaoh. 12. And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch forth thine hand over the land of Egypt for the locusts, that they may come upon the land of Egypt, and eat up all the herbs of the land, and all that remaineth unto the hail. 13. And Moses stretched forth his rod over the land of Egypt. And the LORD drove an east wind into the land all that day and all that night: and in the morning the east wind brought the locusts. 14. And they came over all the land of Egypt, and settled in all the places of Egypt, so much so, that there never was any like it before, neither shall be any like it henceforth. 15. For they covered the land, and darkened it. And they devoured all the herbage of the land, and all the fruit of the trees that remained after the hail; and there was no green thing left in the trees, nor in the herbage of the field, in all the land of Egypt. 16. And Pharaoh hasted, and called for Moses and Aaron, and said: I have sinned against the LORD your God, and against you. 17. Forgive me my sin this time also, and pray the LORD your God, that he would take away this death only from me. 18. And he went out from Pharaoh, and besought the LORD. 19. And the LORD turned a very strong west wind, and took up the locusts, and cast them into the Red sea, that there remained not one in all the coasts of Egypt. 20. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, that he would not let the children of Israel go. 21. And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch forth thine hand toward heaven, that it may be dark in the land of Egypt, that it may be taken. 22. And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven: and there was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days, 23. So that no man saw another, nor arose from the place where he was three days. And all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings. 24. And Pharaoh called unto Moses, and said, Go, serve the LORD: leave your flocks and your herds, and let your little children go with you. 25. And Moses said, Thou must also give us sacrifices and burnt offerings, which we may do unto our God the LORD. 26. Our cattle shall go with us, and not a hoof shall remain behind: for of ours shall we take to the service of our God the LORD. For we know not wherewith we shall serve the LORD, until we come thither. 27. But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, because he would not let them go. 28. And Pharaoh said unto him, Depart from me, and take heed that thou come no more before mine eyes: for in the day that thou comest before mine eyes thou shalt surely die. 29. And Moses answered, As thou hast said, I will not come again before thine eyes. (Exodus) Chapter 11 Exodus from Egypt commanded. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, I will bring one more plague upon Pharaoh and upon Egypt, and after that he will send you away; and he will not only send all things away, but he will also send you away. 2. Say therefore before the people, Let every man require of his neighbour, and every woman of her neighbour, vessels of silver and of gold. 3. For the LORD will give the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians. And Moses was a very great man in the land of Egypt before the servants of Pharaoh, and before the people. 4. And Moses said, Thus saith the LORD, I will go out into the land of Egypt at midnight; 5. And all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne unto the firstborn of the maid that is behind the mill, and all the firstborn among the cattle. 6. And there shall be a great cry in all the land of Egypt, such as never was, nor ever shall be; 7. And there shall not be a sound among all the children of Israel, both of man and beast; that ye may know how the LORD divideth Egypt from Israel. 8. Then shall all these thy servants come down unto me, and fall at my feet, saying, Get thee out, thou, and all the people that are under thee. After that I will go forth, And he departed from Pharaoh with fierce anger. 9. And the LORD said unto Moses, Pharaoh hearken not unto you, that many wonders may be done in the land of Egypt. 10. And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh: but the LORD hardened his heart, because he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land. (Exodus) Chapter 12 (Epistle on Maundy Thursday.) Foundation of the Easter Lamb. Strangulation of the firstborn. The beginning of the Exodus. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: 2. This moon shall be with you the first moon: and from it ye shall lift up the moons of the year. 3. Speak unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, On the tenth day of this month take ye every man a lamb, where there is a father of the house, one lamb for each house. 4. And if there be not enough of them in one house for a lamb, let him take it, and his neighbour that is next unto his house, until they be so many that they may eat the lamb. 5. And ye shall take one lamb without blemish, a male, and of the first year old: of the lambs and of the kids ye shall take it. 6. And ye shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the month. And every company of all Israel shall slay it between the evenings. 7. And thou shalt take the blood thereof, and put it upon the two posts of the door, and upon the topmost threshold of the houses, where they eat it within. 8. And ye shall eat flesh that night roasted with fire, and unleavened bread; and ye shall eat it with bitter salts. 9. Ye shall not eat it raw, neither shall ye boil it with water; but ye shall roast it with fire, the head thereof, with the thighs thereof, and the inwards thereof. 10. And ye shall leave none of it until the morning: but if any remain until the morning, ye shall burn it with fire. 11. And thus shall ye eat it: Ye shall be girded about your loins, and your shoes shall be upon your feet, and your staffs in your hands: and ye shall eat it as they that pass over: for it is the LORD'S passover. 12. For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast. And I will execute my punishment upon all the gods of Egypt, I the LORD. 13. And the blood shall be your sign in the houses wherein ye are, that, when I see the blood, I may pass over before you, and the plague shall not befall you, which shall destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt. 14. And ye shall have this day in remembrance, and ye shall keep it a feast unto the LORD, ye, and all your generations, for an everlasting manner. 15. Seven days ye shall eat unleavened bread: ye shall cease from leavened bread in your houses the first day. He that eateth leavened bread from the first day even unto the seventh day, his soul shall be cut off from Israel. 16. The first day shall be holy, that ye come together: and the seventh day also shall be holy, that ye come together. Ye shall do no work within, save that which pertaineth unto meat for all souls: ye shall do the same only for yourselves. 17. And keep the unleavened bread: for in the same day I brought forth your armies out of the land of Egypt: therefore ye shall keep this day, and all your generations for an everlasting time. 18. On the fourteenth day of the first month at even ye shall eat unleavened bread until the twenty and first day of the month at even, 19. That no leavened bread be found in your houses seven days. For whosoever eateth leavened bread, his soul shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he be a stranger or a native of the land. 20. Wherefore eat no leavened bread, but unleavened bread throughout all your dwellings. 21. And Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them: Read, and take sheep every man for his household, and slay the passover. 22. And take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood of the laver, and touch the lintel and the two posts with it. And let no man go out at the door of his house until the morning. 23. For the LORD will go about and afflict the Egyptians. And when he seeth the blood upon the threshold, and upon the two posts, he shall pass over at the door, and shall not suffer the destroyer to come into your houses to afflict you. 24. Therefore keep this manner for thyself and for thy children for ever. 25. And when ye are come into the land which the LORD shall give you, as he hath spoken, keep this service. 26. And when your children shall say unto you, What service have ye? 27. And ye shall say, It is the passover offering of the LORD, which passed over before the children of Israel in Egypt, when he afflicted the Egyptians, and delivered our houses. Then the people bowed down and stooped. 28. And the children of Israel went and did as the LORD commanded Moses and Aaron. 29. And at midnight the LORD smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in prison, and all the firstborn of cattle. 30. And Pharaoh arose, and all his servants that night, and all the Egyptians: and there was a great cry in Egypt; for there was not a house without a dead man within. 31. And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Arise, go out from among my people, ye and the children of Israel; go, serve the LORD, as ye have said. 32. Take also with you your flocks and your herds, as ye have said; go ye also, and bless me. 33. And the Egyptians pressed upon the people, and drove them out of the land with haste: for they said: We are all of us dead. 34. And the people took the raw dough, before it was leavened, for their meat, bound in their garments, upon their shoulders. 35. And the children of Israel had done as Moses had said, and had required of the Egyptians silver and gold vessels and garments. 36. For this the LORD had given the people grace in the sight of the Egyptians, that they should lend unto them: and they took it from the Egyptians. 37. So the children of Israel went out from Raemses to Sukhoth, six hundred thousand men on foot without the children. 38. And there went with them also much common people, and sheep, and oxen, and almost many cattle. 39. And they baked unleavened cakes of the uncooked dough which they brought out of Egypt: for it was not leavened, because they were thrust out of Egypt; and they could not forgive, neither had they prepared any meat for them. 40. And the time that the children of Israel dwelt in Egypt was four hundred and thirty years. 41. And when they were come to an end, all the host of the LORD went out of the land of Egypt in one day. 42. Therefore this night is kept unto the LORD, because he brought them up out of the land of Egypt: and the children of Israel shall keep it unto the LORD, they and their seed. 43. And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron, This is the manner of keeping the passover: No stranger shall eat thereof. 44. But he that is a hired servant, let him be circumcised, and then let him eat thereof. 45. A householder and a hireling shall not eat thereof. 46. It shall be eaten in one house: ye shall carry none of the flesh thereof out of the house; neither shall ye break a bone in it. 47. All the congregation of Israel shall do this thing. 48. And if a stranger sojourn with thee, and keep the passover unto the LORD, let him circumcise all that is male; and let him come near to do it, and be as a native of the land: for no uncircumcised man shall eat thereof. 49. One law to the native, and to the stranger that sojourneth among you. 50. And all the children of Israel did as the LORD commanded Moses and Aaron. 51. So the LORD brought forth the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt with their armies in one day. (Exodus) Chapter 13 Sanctification of the firstborn. The progress of the exodus. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, which breaketh every mother, among the children of Israel, both of men and of cattle: for they are mine. 3. And Moses said unto the people, Remember this day, in the which ye came out of Egypt out of the house of bondage, that the LORD brought you forth from hence with a mighty hand: therefore shalt thou not eat leaven. 4. this day ye went out in the moon of Abib. 5. Now therefore, when the LORD shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee, a land flowing with milk and honey within, then thou shalt keep this service in this moon. 6. Seven days shalt thou eat bread unleavened: and on the seventh day is the feast of the LORD. 7. Therefore thou shalt eat bread unleavened seven days, that no leaven be seen among thee, nor leavened bread in all thy places. 8. And ye shall say unto your sons in that day, We keep this thing because of the thing which the LORD did unto us, when we came out of Egypt. 9. Therefore it shall be a sign in thine hand, and a memorial in thine eyes, that the law of the LORD may be in thy mouth, that the LORD hath brought thee forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand. 10. Therefore keep this way in his time yearly. 11. When therefore the LORD hath brought thee into the land of the Canaanites, as he sware unto thee and unto thy fathers, and hath given it thee, 12. Then shalt thou set apart unto the LORD all that breaketh the mother, and the firstborn of cattle that are male. 13. The firstborn of the ass shalt thou loose with one sheep: but if thou loose it not, break his neck. But all the firstborn of thy children thou shalt redeem. 14. And if thy child ask thee to day, or to morrow, What is this? thou shalt say unto him, The LORD hath brought us with a mighty hand out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 15. For when Pharaoh was hardy to let us go, the LORD smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of men unto the firstborn of cattle. Therefore I offer unto the LORD all the firstborn of the mother that is a male, and the firstborn of my children I redeem. 16. And this shall be a sign in thine hand, and a memorial in thine eyes, that the LORD hath brought us forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand. 17. Now when Pharaoh had left the people, God did not lead them by the road through the land of the Philistines, which was nearest; for God thought that it would repent the people when they saw the battle, and they would return to Egypt. 18. Therefore he led the people by the way of the wilderness by the Red sea. And the children of Israel went armed out of the land of Egypt. 19. And Moses took with him the bones of Joseph. For he had taken an oath from the children of Israel, saying: God shall visit you: bring my bones hence with you. 20. So they departed from Shukoth, and pitched in Etham, which is before the wilderness. 21. And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them in the way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light to go by day and by night. 22. The pillar of cloud departed not from the people by day, nor the pillar of fire by night. (Exodus) Chapter 14 The consummation of the exodus. The Egyptian downfall in the Red Sea. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say, That they turn about, and pitch toward the valley of Hiroth, between Migdol and the sea, toward Baalzephon, and pitch there over against the sea. 3. For Pharaoh shall say of the children of Israel, They are lost in the land; the wilderness hath determined them. 4. And I will harden his heart, and he shall cleave unto them: and I will put glory in Pharaoh, and in all his might; and the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD. And they did so. 5. And when it was told the king of Egypt that the people were fled, his heart was changed, and his servants against the people, and said: Why have We done this, that We have left Israel, that they served us not? 6. And he harnessed his chariot, and took his people with him. 7. And he took six hundred choice chariots, and all the chariots that were in Egypt, and the captains of all his host. 8. For the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, because he followed after the children of Israel. But the children of Israel were gone out by a high hand. 9. And the Egyptians pursued after them, and overtook them, with horses, and chariots, and horsemen, and all Pharaoh's host, in the valley of Hiroth, against Baalzephon. 10. And when Pharaoh was come nigh unto them, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians went after them: and they were sore afraid, and cried unto the LORD. 11. And they said unto Moses, Were there not graves in Egypt, that thou shouldest bring us away to die in the wilderness? Why hast thou done this thing, to bring us out of Egypt? 12. Is not this that we said unto thee in Egypt, Cease, and let us serve the Egyptians? For it were better for us to serve the Egyptians, than to die in the wilderness. 13. And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: stand ye firm, and see what salvation the LORD will do for you this day. For these Egyptians, whom ye see this day, ye shall see no more for ever. 14. The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall be quiet. 15. And the LORD said unto Moses, Why cryest thou unto me? Tell the children of Israel to go. 16. And thou shalt lift up thy rod, and stretch forth thine hand over the sea, and divide it, that the children of Israel may go in through the midst of it upon dry land. 17. Behold, I will harden the heart of the Egyptians, and they shall follow you. And I will put glory in Pharaoh, and in all his might, in his chariots, and in his horsemen. 18. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I have put glory in Pharaoh, and in his chariots, and in his horsemen. 19. And the angel of God, which went before the host of Israel, rose up, and stood behind them: and the pillar of the cloud was removed out of their sight, and stood behind them. 20. And he came between the host of Egypt and the host of Israel. And there was a dark cloud, and it lightened the night, so that they could not come together all that night, both they and they. 21. And it came to pass, when Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, that the LORD caused it to pass away with a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry; and the waters were parted from one another. 22. And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon dry land: and the waters were for walls unto them on the right hand and on the left. 23. And the Egyptians followed, and went in after them, all Pharaoh's horses, and chariots, and horsemen, into the midst of the sea. 24. And it came to pass, when the morning watch was come, that the LORD looked upon the host of Egypt out of the pillar of fire and out of the cloud, and made a terror in their host; 25. And thrust out the wheels of their chariots, and overthrew them with impetuosity. And the Egyptians said, Let us flee from Israel. The LORD fighteth for them against the Egyptians. 26. And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch forth thine hand over the sea, that the waters may fall again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen. 27. And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea; and the sea returned into his river before the morning, and the Egyptians fled to meet him. So the LORD plunged them into the midst of the sea, 28. And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, and all Pharaoh's forces that followed them into the sea, that there remained not one of them. 29. But the children of Israel went dry through the midst of the sea: and the waters were for walls unto them on their right hand, and on their left. 30. So the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians. And they saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore, 31. And the great hand which the LORD had shewed unto the Egyptians. And the people feared the LORD, and believed him, and Moses his servant. (Exodus) Chapter 15 Canticle of Moses. Bitter water made sweet. 1. Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song unto the LORD, saying: I will sing unto the LORD: for he hath done a marvellous thing, he hath cast horse and chariot into the sea. 2. The LORD is my strength, and my praise, and my salvation. This is my God, I will praise him: he is my father's God, I will exalt him. 3. the LORD is the right man of war. HErr is his name. 4. Pharaoh's chariots and his might did he cast into the sea; his chosen captains sank in the Red sea. 5. The deep covered them, they fell to the bottom like the stones. 6. O LORD, thy right hand doeth great wonders: O LORD, thy right hand hath broken in pieces the enemies. 7. And with thy great glory thou hast overthrown thine adversaries: for when thou didst vent thine anger, it consumed them like stubble. 8. By thy blowing the waters were opened, and the floods were heaped up: the deep welled up in the midst of the sea. 9. The enemy thought: I will pursue after them, and catch, and deal out the spoil, and cool my courage upon them; I will draw out my sword, and my hand shall destroy them. 10. And thou didst blow thy wind, and the sea covered them, and they sank like lead in the mighty waters. 11. O LORD, who is like unto thee among the gods? Who is like unto thee, that is mighty, and holy, and terrible, and praiseworthy, and working miracles? 12. When thou didst stretch forth thy right hand, it swallowed up the earth. 13. By thy mercy hast thou led thy people whom thou hast redeemed, and hast brought them by thy strength unto thy holy habitation. 14. And when the nations heard it, they trembled: and fear came upon the Philistines; 15. Then the princes of Edom were afraid; trembling came upon the mighty men of Moab; all the inhabitants of Canaan became cowardly. 16. Let terror and fear fall upon them by thy great arm, that they may be stilled as stones, until thy people come through, O LORD, until the people come through whom thou hast purchased. 17. Bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, which thou, O LORD, hast made thee to dwell in, in thy sanctuary, O LORD, which thy hand hath prepared. 18. The LORD shall be king for ever and ever. 19. For Pharaoh went into the sea with horses, and with chariots, and with horsemen: and the LORD brought down the sea upon them. And the children of Israel passed through the midst of the sea dry. 20. And Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women followed her out with timbrels in the round dance. 21. And Miriam sang unto them: Let us sing unto the LORD: for he hath done a marvellous thing, both man and horse hath he cast into the sea. 22. And Moses sent the children of Israel forth from the Red sea unto the wilderness of Sur. And they wandered three days in the wilderness, and found no water. 23. And they came to Mara; but they could not drink of the water of Mara, because it was almost bitter. Therefore they called the name of the place Mara. 24. And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? 25. And he cried unto the LORD, and the LORD showed him a tree, and he put it into the water, and it became sweet. And there he set them a law and a statute, and tried them. 26. And he said, If thou wilt obey the voice of the LORD thy God, and do that which is right in his sight, and receive his commandments in thine ears, and keep all his statutes, then I will not put upon thee any of the diseases which I have put upon Egypt: for I am the LORD thy physician. (Exodus) Chapter 16 The quails and the manna are given. 27. And they came to Elim, where were twelve wells of water, and seventy palm trees: and they pitched there by the waters. Ch. 16, v. 1: And they departed from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came into the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after they came out of Egypt. 2. And all the congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness. 3. And they said: Would to God that we had died in Egypt by the hand of the LORD, sitting by the fleshpots, and having an abundance of bread to eat! For therefore have ye brought us out into this wilderness, to cause all this congregation to die of hunger. 4. And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven upon you, and the people shall go forth, and gather every day that they have need of, that I may try them, whether they walk in my law, or not. 5. And on the sixth day they shall send themselves to bring in twofold, neither shall they gather any more daily. 6. And Moses and Aaron said unto all the children of Israel, At even ye shall know that the LORD hath brought you up out of the land of Egypt, 7. And in the morning ye shall see the glory of the LORD: for he hath heard your murmuring against the LORD. What are we, that ye murmur against us? 8. And Moses said, The LORD will give you meat to eat at even, and in the morning he will give you bread in abundance: because the LORD hath heard your murmurings, which ye have murmured against him. For what are we? Your murmuring is not against us, but against the LORD. 9. And Moses said unto Aaron, Say unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, Come near before the LORD: for he hath heard your murmurings. 10. And when Aaron spake thus unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, they turned toward the wilderness: and, behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in a cloud. 11. And the LORD said unto Moses: 12. I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel. Say unto them: Ye shall eat flesh between the evenings, and be satisfied with bread in the morning; and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God. 13. And in the evening quails came up, and covered the host. And in the morning the dew was round about the host. 14. And when the dew was gone, behold, it lay in the wilderness round and small, like the hoarfrost of the land. 15. And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, This is Man: for they knew not what it was. And Moses said unto them: It is the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat. 16. Now this is the thing which the LORD commanded: Let every man gather together as much as he may eat for himself, and let him take a gomor upon every man's head, according to the number of the souls that are in his tent. 17. And the children of Israel did so, and gathered, the one much, and the other little. 18. But when it was measured by the measure of Gomor, he that had gathered much was not found above, neither he that had gathered little was found below: but every man had gathered as much as he might eat for himself. 19. And Moses said unto them: Let no man leave any of these things until to morrow. 20. But they hearkened not unto Moses. And some of them left it until the morning: and worms grew in it, and it stank. And Moses was wroth with them. 21. And they gathered them together every morning, as much as every man might eat for himself. But when the sun shone hot, it melted. 22. And on the sixth day they gathered bread by twain, two gomor by one. And all the rulers of the congregation came in, and told Moses. 23. And he said unto them: This is it that the LORD hath said: To morrow is the sabbath of the holy rest of the LORD: bake that which ye will bake, and boil that which ye will boil: but that which is left over let it remain, that it may be kept until to morrow. 24. And they left it until the morning, as Moses commanded: and it stank not, neither was there any worm in it. 25. And Moses said, Eat this to day: for to day is the sabbath of the LORD: ye shall not find it to day in the field. 26. Six days ye shall glean: but the seventh day is the sabbath: therein shall it not be. 27. But on the seventh day some of the people went out to gather, and found nothing. 28. Then said the LORD unto Moses, How long refuse ye to keep my commandments and my statutes? 29. Behold, the LORD hath given you the sabbath day: therefore he giveth you bread on the sixth day of two days. Let every man therefore abide in his own, and let no man go out of his place on the seventh day. 30. So the people of the seventh day feasted. 31. And the house of Israel called it Man: and it was as coriander seed, and white, and had a savour like bread with honey. 32. And Moses said, This is that the LORD commanded: Fill up a gomor of it, to keep for your seed, that the bread may be seen, wherewith I fed you in the wilderness, when I brought you forth out of the land of Egypt. 33. And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pitcher, and put a gomor full of man in it, and leave it before the LORD to be kept for your seed. 34. As the LORD commanded Moses, so let Aaron keep it there before the testimony. 35. And the children of Israel did eat Man forty years, until they came unto the land where they were to dwell; even unto the border of the land of Canaan did they eat Man. 36. And a gomor is the tenth part of an ephah. (Exodus) Chapter 17 The children of Israel are watered from a rock, overcome the Amalekites. 1. And all the congregation of the children of Israel went out of the wilderness of Sin their days' journey, as the LORD commanded them, and pitched in Raphidim. And the people had no water to drink. 2. And they quarreled with Moses, and said: Pray us water, that we may drink. And Moses said unto them: Why do ye quarrel with me? Why tempt ye the LORD? 3. And when the people thirsted there for water, they murmured against Moses, and said: Why hast thou brought us up out of Egypt, that thou hast caused us and our children and our cattle to die of thirst? 4. And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, How shall I do with the people? It lacketh not far, they shall stone me yet. 5. And the LORD said unto him, Go before the people, and take with thee certain elders of Israel; and take thy rod in thine hand, that thou mayest smite the waters, and go. 6. Behold, I will stand there before thee upon a rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and water shall run out, and the people shall drink. And Moses did so before the elders of Israel. 7. And the place was called Massa and Meribah, because of the strife of the children of Israel, and because they had tempted the LORD, saying: Is the LORD among us, or not? 8. And Amalek came and fought against Israel in Raphidim. 9. And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us men, go forth, and fight against Amalek: to morrow I will stand upon the top of the hill, and have the rod of God in mine hand. 10. And Joshua did as Moses told him, to fight against Amalek. And Moses, and Aaron, and Hur, went up to the top of the hill. 11. And when Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed: but when he put down his hands, Amalek prevailed. 12. But Moses' hands were heavy: therefore they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat upon it. And Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on each side. So his hands remained stiff until the sun went down. 13. And Joshua smote Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. 14. And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this in a book for a memorial, and command it in the ears of Joshua: for I will cut him off from under heaven, and he shall be remembered no more. 15. And Moses built an altar, and called his name, The LORD Nissi. 16. For he said, It is a sign by the throne of the LORD, that the LORD will fight against Amalek from child to child. (Exodus) Chapter 18 Jethro gives Moses some good advice. 1. And Jethro the priest of Midian, Moses' father in law, heard all that God had done for Moses and for Israel his people, how that the LORD had brought Israel out of Egypt, 2. And he took Zipora, Moses' wife, whom he had sent back, 3. And her two sons; the name of the one was Gershom: for he said: I am become a sojourner in a strange land; 4. And the other Eliezer: for he said, The God of my father hath been my help, and hath delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh. 5. And Jethro Moses' brother, and his sons, and his wife, came unto him into the wilderness, unto the mountain of God, where he was encamped, 6. And he said unto Moses, I, Jethro thy brother in law, am come unto thee, and thy wife, and her two sons with her. 7. And Moses went out to meet him, and bowed himself to him, and kissed him. And when they had saluted one another, they went into the tabernacle. 8. Then Moses told his brother-in-law all that the LORD had done to Pharaoh and to the Egyptians for Israel's sake, and all the trouble that they had met with in the way, and that the LORD had delivered them. 9. And Jethro rejoiced for all the goodness that the LORD had done unto Israel, in delivering them out of the hand of Egypt. 10. And Jethro said, Blessed be the LORD, which hath delivered you out of the hand of Egypt, and out of the hand of Pharaoh, who knoweth how to deliver his people out of the hand of Egypt. 11. Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods, because they have magnified themselves against them. 12. And Jethro Moses' attendant took burnt offerings, and offered unto God. And Aaron and all the elders of Israel came to eat bread with Moses' servant before God. 13. And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat down to judge the people: and the people stood about Moses from the morning even unto the evening. 14. And when his brother saw all that he did with the people, he said, What is this that thou doest with the people? Why sittest thou alone, and all the people stand about thee from the morning even unto the evening? 15. And Moses said unto him, The people come unto me, and ask counsel of GOD. 16. For where they have business, they come unto me, that I may judge between every man and his neighbour, and shew them the judgments of God, and his statutes. 17. And his brother's servant said unto him, It is not good that thou shouldest do this thing. 18. Thou hast wearied thyself, and the people also that are with thee. The business is too heavy for thee; thou canst not do it alone. 19. But obey my voice; I will counsel thee, and God shall be with thee. Care thou for the people before God, and bring the business before God; 20. And establish unto them statutes and judgments, that thou mayest teach them the way wherein they shall walk, and the works which they shall do. 21. And look among all the people for men of integrity, who fear God, and are truthful, and are enemies to covetousness: and set them over a thousand, and over an hundred, and over fifty, and over ten, 22. That they may judge the people at all times: but if there be any great matter, let them bring it unto thee, and let them judge all small matters. So it shall be easier for thee, and they shall bear with thee. 23. if you do this, you will be able to accomplish what God has given you, and all these people will be able to come to their place with peace. 24. And Moses obeyed his brother's word, and did according to all that he said, 25. And righteous men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, some over a thousand, and some over an hundred, and some over fifty, and some over ten. 26. To judge the people always, and to bring unto Moses the things that were grievous, and to judge the small things. 27. So Moses sent his brother in law into his own land. (Exodus) Chapter 19 Preparation to hear the law of God. 1. In the third moon after the children of Israel came out of the land of Egypt, they came that day into the wilderness of Sinai. 2. For they came out from Raphidim, and went into the wilderness of Sinai: and they pitched in the wilderness there toward the mountain. 3. And Moses went up unto God. And the LORD called unto him from the mount, and said, Thus shalt thou say unto the house of Jacob, and proclaim unto the children of Israel: 4. Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto me. 5. If ye will therefore obey my voice, and keep my covenant, ye shall be my possession before all nations: for all the earth is mine. 6. And ye shall be unto me a priestly kingdom, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt say unto the children of Israel. 7. And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before them all these words which the LORD had commanded. 8. And all the people answered at once, and said: All that the LORD hath spoken will we do. And Moses told the people's words again unto the LORD. 9. And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, I will come unto thee in a thick cloud, that this people may hear my words which I speak unto thee, and believe thee for ever. And Moses declared unto the LORD the words of the people. 10. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, that they may wash their clothes. 11. And be ready for the third day. For on the third day the LORD shall come down before all the people unto mount Sinai. 12. And make an enclosure round about for the people, and say unto them: Beware that ye go not up into the mountain, nor touch the end thereof: for whosoever toucheth the mountain shall surely surely die. 13. No hand shall touch him, but he shall be stoned, or shot with a projectile; whether it be beast or man, he shall not live. But when it shall sound for a long time, then they shall go to the mountain. 14. And Moses came down from the mount unto the people, and sanctified them, and they washed their clothes. 15. And he said unto them, Be ready for the third day, and let no man draw nigh unto his wife. 16. And it came to pass, when the third day was come, and the morning was come, that there arose thunderings and lightnings, and a great cloud upon the mount, and the sound of a very great trumpet. And all the people that were in the camp were afraid. 17. And Moses brought the people forth out of the camp to meet God: and they came down unto the mountain. 18. And all mount Sinai smoked, because the LORD came down upon the mount with fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount shook exceedingly. 19. And the sound of the trumpet increased. Moses spoke, and God answered him loudly. 20. And it came to pass, when the LORD was come down to mount Sinai, to the top of it, that he called Moses to the top of the mountain: and Moses went up. 21. And the LORD said unto him, Go down, and witness unto the people, that they come not down to the LORD, that they may see, and many fall from among them. 22. And let the priests that come near unto the LORD sanctify themselves, that the LORD smite them not. 23. And Moses said unto the LORD, The people cannot go up into mount Sinai: for thou hast testified unto us, saying, Make an enclosure about the mount, and sanctify it. 24. And the LORD said unto him, Go thy way, go down; thou and Aaron with thee shall go up: but the priests and the people shall not go up, to go up unto the LORD, lest he break them in pieces. 25. And Moses went down unto the people, and told them. (Exodus) Chapter 20 Moses receives the holy ten commandments of God. 1. And God spoke all these words: 2. I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 3. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. 4. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness, either of them that are in heaven above, or of them that are in the earth beneath, or of them that are in the water under the earth. 5. Worship them not, neither serve them. For I, the LORD thy God, am a zealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation that hate me, 6. And do mercy to many thousands that love me, and keep my commandments. 7. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain: for the LORD will not suffer him to go unpunished that taketh his name in vain. 8. Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy. 9. Six days shalt thou labour, and shalt feed all thy substance; 10. But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God. Thou shalt do no work there, neither thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. 11. For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all that is therein, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. 12. Thou shalt honour thy father and thy mother, that thou mayest live long in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. 13, thou shalt not kill. 14. thou shalt not commit adultery. 15. Thou shalt not steal. 16. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. 17. Lust not after thy neighbour's house. Let not thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that thy neighbour hath, be thy delight. 18. And all the people saw thunder and lightning, and the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking. And when they saw these things, they fled, and stood afar off; 19. And they said unto Moses, Speak thou unto us, and we will obey: and let not God speak unto us, lest we die. 20. And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to try you, and that his fear may be before you, that ye sin not. 21. So the people stood afar off: but Moses went in unto the darkness, because God was within. 22. And the LORD said unto him, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, Ye have seen that I have spoken unto you from heaven. 23. Therefore shall ye make nothing beside me; silver and gold gods shall ye not make. 24. Make me an altar of earth, whereon thou shalt offer thy burnt offering, and thy peace offerings, and thy sheep, and thy oxen. For in the place where I will make a memorial of my name, there will I come unto thee, and bless thee. 25. And if thou wilt make me an altar of stone, thou shalt not build it of hewn stones: for whithersoever thou passest thy knife over it, thou shalt pollute it. 26. Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, lest thy shame be uncovered before him. (Exodus) Chapter 21 Order of the servants. Item, about murderers and manslayers. 1. These are the statutes which thou shalt present unto them: 2. If thou buy a servant of the children of Israel, he shall serve thee six years: in the seventh year he shall go forth free. 3. If he come without a wife, he shall go forth without a wife. But if he come with a wife, his wife shall go out with him. 4. And if his lord have given him a wife, and have begotten sons or daughters, then the wife and the children shall be his lord's: but he shall go forth without a wife. 5. And the servant saith, I love my lord, and my wife, and my child; I will not go free, 6. Then let his lord bring him before the gods, and hold him to the door, or to the post, and pierce his ear with an awl; and let him be his servant for ever. 7. If a man sell his daughter to be a maid, she shall not go out as the servants. 8. But if she please not her lord, and will not help her to marriage, then he shall give her in marriage. But he hath no power to sell her among a strange people, because he hath spurned her. 9. But if he entrust her unto his son, he shall do daughter's right unto her. 10. But if he give him another, he shall not break off her food, nor her covering, nor her matrimony. 11. If he do not these three, she shall go out free without ransom. 12. Whosoever smiteth a man to death shall surely be put to death. 13. And if he have not pursued him, but God hath caused him to fall into his hands, I will appoint thee a place whither he shall flee. 14. But if any man do wickedly to his neighbour, and slay him with guile, thou shalt take him from mine altar, and put him to death. 15. Whosoever shall smite his father or his mother shall surely be put to death. 16. Whosoever stealeth a man, and selleth him to be found with him, he shall surely be put to death. 17. Whosoever curseth father or mother shall surely be put to death. 18. When men quarrel together, and one smiteth another with a stone, or with his fist, he dieth not, but lieth in bed: 19. If he come up, and go out with his staff, he that smote him shall be guiltless, but he shall not pay him that which he hath omitted, neither give him the physician's fee. 20. Whosoever shall smite his manservant or his maidservant with a rod, that he die under his hands, he shall be punished for it. 21. But if he tarry a day or two, he shall not be punished for it: for it is his money. 22. If a man be wicked, and hurt a woman with child, that her fruit be taken away, and no hurt be done unto her; then he shall be punished for money, as much as the woman's husband shall lay upon him; and he shall give it according to the knowledge of the teidings. 23. But if it come to her hurt, he shall let go soul for soul, 24. an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a hand for a hand, a foot for a foot, Twenty-five. Burn after burn, wound after wound, bump after bump. 26. If any man smite his servant or his handmaid in the eye, and destroy it, he shall let them go free about the eye. 27. Likewise, if he knock out a tooth of his manservant, or of his maidservant, he shall let them go free for the tooth. 28. If an ox thrust a man or a woman, and he die, then the ox shall be stoned, and his flesh shall not be eaten: then the master of the ox shall be guiltless. 29. And if the ox be a stallion before, and it be told his master, and he keep him not, and kill any man or woman thereby, then the ox shall be stoned, and his master shall die. 30. But if any money be laid upon him, he shall give to redeem his life whatsoever shall be laid upon him. 31. And the same shall be done unto him, if he thrust a son or a daughter. 32. And if he thrust a manservant or a maidservant, he shall give thirty shekels of silver unto their master, and the ox shall be stoned. 33. If any man dig a pit, or dig a pit, and cover it not, and an ox or an ass fall therein, 34. Then the lord of the pit shall pay the other again with money: and the carcase shall be his. 35. And if any man's ox kill another ox, and it die, then they shall sell the living ox, and divide the money, and divide the carcase also. 36. And if it be known that the ox was a stallion before, and his master keep him not, then he shall recompense one ox for another, and have the carcase. (Exodus) Chapter 22 Punishment of theft and other sins, 1. If any man steal an ox or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it, he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep. 2. If a thief be taken to break in, and be beaten to death, let no judgment of blood be passed upon him. 3. But when the sun is risen upon him, then shall the judgment of blood be let go. But a thief shall make restitution. If he have nothing, let him be sold for his theft. 4. And if the theft be found with him alive, whether it be ox, ass, or sheep, he shall restore it double. 5. If a man hurt a field or vineyard, and let his cattle hurt another man's field, he shall make restitution of the best of his field or vineyard. 6. If a fire come out, and take the thorns, and burn the sheaves, or the corn that is yet standing, or the field, he that kindled the fire shall make restitution. 7. If a man keep money or goods for his neighbour, and it be stolen out of his house, and the thief be found, he shall give it again double. 8. But if the thief be not found, then the landlord shall be brought before the gods, whether he have not laid his hand upon his neighbour's goods. 9. If a man owe another any trespass, whether it be oxen, or asses, or sheep, or raiment, or any thing that is lost, both their things shall come before the gods. Whom the gods condemn, he shall restore it to his neighbor in two parts. 10. If a man keep an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, for his neighbour, and it die, or be hurt, or be driven away from him, that no man see it, 11. Then they shall take an oath with the LORD, whether he lay not his hand upon his neighbour's goods; and the lord of the manor shall accept it, that he pay not. 12. But if a thief steal it from him, he shall pay it unto his lord. 13. But if it be torn, he shall bring testimony of it, and not pay. 14. If any man borrow it of his neighbour, and be hurt, or die, that his lord be not with him, he shall pay it. 15. But if his lord be with him, then he shall not pay it, if he hath paid it for his money. 16. If any man persuade a virgin that is not yet betrothed, and put her to sleep, he shall give her her morning gift, and have her to wife. 17. And if her father refuse to give her unto him, then he shall weigh the money that is due unto a virgin for a morning gift. 18. Thou shalt not suffer the sorceresses to live. 19. Whosoever shall put any beast to sleep shall surely be put to death. 20. Whosoever sacrificeth unto gods, but unto the LORD only, let him be accursed, 21. Thou shalt not oppress the strangers, neither shalt thou oppress them: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. 22. Ye shall not offend widows and fatherless. 23. If thou shalt offend them, they shall cry unto me, and I will hear their cry; 24. Then shall my wrath be kindled, and I will slay you with the sword, and your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless. 25. When thou lendest money unto my people, which are poor with thee, thou shalt not press him to any hurt, neither shalt thou lay usury upon him. 26. If thou take a garment of thy neighbour for a pledge, thou shalt restore it unto him before the sun go down. 27. For his garment is the covering of his skin, wherein he sleepeth. But if he shall cry unto me, I will hear him: for I am merciful. 28. Thou shalt not curse the gods, neither shalt thou blaspheme the ruler of thy people. 29. Thy abundance and thy tears shalt thou not pardon. Thy first son shalt thou give me. 30. So shalt thou do also unto thy bullock and thy sheep. Seven days let it be with its mother, and on the eighth day give it to me. 31. Ye shall be holy men before me: therefore ye shall not eat flesh torn of beasts in the field, but ye shall cast it to the dogs. (Exodus) Chapter 23 Of festivals and holidays. 1. Thou shalt not believe a false accusation, that thou hast assisted an ungodly man, and hast been a false witness. 2. Thou shalt not follow the multitude to evil, nor answer in judgment, to turn aside from the multitude. 3. Thou shalt not adorn the lowly in his cause. 4. If thou meet thine enemy's ox or ass, and he err, thou shalt bring him again. 5. When thou seest the ass that hateth thee lying under his burden, take heed, and leave him not; but willingly forfeit thine own, for his sake. 6. Thou shalt not bend the law of thy poor in his cause. 7. Be thou far from falsehood. Thou shalt not slay the innocent and the righteous: for I will not suffer the wicked to be right. 8. Thou shalt not take gifts: for gifts blind the seeing, and pervert the things of the righteous. 9. Ye shall not oppress the stranger: for ye know the heart of the stranger, because ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. 10. Six years shalt thou sow thy land, and gather in the fruit thereof. 11. In the seventh year thou shalt let it lie, and let the poor of thy people eat thereof: and what remaineth, let the wild beasts of the field eat it. And thou shalt do likewise unto thy vineyard, and unto thy oliveyard. 12. Six days shalt thou do thy work; but on the seventh day thou shalt feast, that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and that thy maid's son and thy stranger may be refreshed. 13. All things whatsoever I have said unto you, keep them. And the names of other gods ye shall not remember, neither shall they be heard out of your mouths. 14. Three times in the year ye shall keep me a feast. 15. Namely, the feast of unleavened bread shalt thou keep, to eat bread unleavened seven days, as I commanded thee, about the time of the month Abib: for in that thou camest out of Egypt. But appear not empty before me. 16. And the feast of the first harvest of the fruit which thou hast sown in the field. And the feast of ingathering at the end of the year, when thou hast gathered thy work out of the field. 17. Three times in the year shall all thy likenesses appear before the LORD sovereign. 18. Thou shalt not offer the blood of my sacrifice beside the leaven, neither shall the fat of my feast remain until to morrow. 19. The firstling of the firstfruits of thy field shalt thou bring into the house of the LORD thy God. And thou shalt not boil the kid, because he is with his mother's milk. 20. Behold, I send an angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. 21. Therefore beware of his face, and obey his voice, and provoke him not: for he will not forgive your transgression, and my name is in him. 22. But if thou shalt hear his voice, and do all that I shall say unto thee, then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries. 23. And it shall come to pass, when my angel goeth before thee, and bringeth thee unto the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, that I will destroy them, 24. Thou shalt not worship their gods, nor serve them, nor do as they do: but thou shalt overthrow their idols, and break them in pieces. 25. But serve the LORD your God, and he will bless your bread and your water, and I will remove all sickness from you. 26. And there shall be no evil nor barren thing in thy land, and I will make thee old. 27. I will send my terror before thee, and will make all the people afraid whither thou goest; and I will put all thine enemies to flight. 28. I will send hornets before thee, which shall chase out the Hivites, and the Canaanites, and the Hittites, before thee. 29. I will not cast them out from before thee for a year, lest the land be desolate, and the wild beasts multiply against thee. 30. One by one will I cast them out before thee, until thou increase, and possess the land. 31. And I will set thy border upon the Red sea, and upon the Philistine sea, and upon the wilderness unto the waters thereof. And I will deliver into thine hand the inhabitants of the land, and thou shalt drive them out before thee. 32. Thou shalt not make a covenant with them, or with their gods, 53. But let them not dwell in thy land, lest they deceive thee against me. For where thou servest their gods, it shall be an offence unto thee. (Exodus) Chapter 24 Moses climbs Mount Sinai again after confirming the covenant. 1. And unto Moses he said, Come up unto the LORD, thou, and Aaron, and Nadab, and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel, and worship afar off. 2. But Moses alone draweth nigh unto the LORD, and let not them draw nigh; neither let the people come up with him. 3. And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments. And all the people answered with one voice, and said: All the words which the LORD hath spoken will we do. 4. And Moses wrote all the words of the LORD, and rose up early in the morning, and built an altar in the nether parts of the mount, with twelve pillars after the twelve tribes of Israel. 5. And he sent young men of the children of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, and peace offerings unto the LORD of farrows. 6. And Moses took half of the blood, and put it in a vat, and sprinkled the other half upon the altar. 7. And he took the book of the covenant, and read it in the ears of the people. And when they had said: All things whatsoever the LORD hath spoken, we will do and obey, 8. And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it upon the people, and said, Behold, this is the blood of the covenant which the LORD hath made with you concerning all these words. 9. And Moses, and Aaron, and Nadab, and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel, went up. 10. And they saw the God of Israel. Under his feet it was like a beautiful sapphire, and like the form of heaven when it is clear. 11. And he left not his hand upon the same princes of Israel. And when they had seen God, they did eat and drink. 12. And the LORD said unto Moses, Come up unto me into the mount, and dwell there, and I will give thee tables of stone, and statutes, and commandments, which I have written, which thou shalt teach them. 13. And Moses arose, and Joshua his servant, and went up into the mount of God. 14. And he said unto the elders, Tarry here until we come again unto you. Behold, Aaron and Hur are with you: if any man have a matter, let him come before them. 15. And when Moses was come up into the mount, a cloud covered the mountain. 16. And the glory of the LORD dwelt in mount Sinai, and covered it with the cloud six days; and called Moses out of the cloud the seventh day. 17. And the vision of the glory of the LORD was as a consuming fire upon the top of the mountain before the children of Israel. 18. And Moses went up into the midst of the cloud, and ascended into the mount, and abode in the mount forty days and forty nights. (Exodus) Chapter 25 Voluntary offerings to the tabernacle. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Tell the children of Israel, that they give me an heave offering; and take the same of every one that giveth it willingly. 3. And this is the heave offering which ye shall take of them, gold, and silver, and brass, 4. Yellow silk, scarlet, rose red, white silk, goat hair, 5. reddish ram skins, badger skins, pine wood, 6. oil for the lamp, spices for the ointment, and good incense, 7. onyx stones and stones set for the ephod and for the shield. 8. And they shall make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. 9. As I will shew thee a pattern of the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof, so shall ye do. 10. Make an ark of pine wood. The length shall be three cubits and a half, the breadth a cubit and a half, and the height a cubit and a half. 11. And thou shalt overlay them with fine gold, within and without; and shalt make a crown of gold round about. 12. And cast four golden prongs, and put them on the four corners thereof; and there shall be two prongs on the one side, and two prongs on the other side. 13. And make staves of pine wood, and overlay them with gold. 14. And put them in the rings by the sides of the ark, that they may be carried; 15. And they shall abide in the rakes, and not be put forth. 16. And ye shall put in the ark the testimony which I will give thee. 17. Thou shalt also make a mercy seat of fine gold: the length thereof shall be three cubits and an half, and the breadth thereof one cubit and a half. 18. And thou shalt make two cherubims of strong gold for the two ends of the mercy seat, 19. That one cherub should be at this end, and the other at the other end; and so two cherubims should be at the ends of the mercy seat. 20. And the cherubims shall spread forth wings above, and cover the mercy seat with their wings, and every one's face shall be over against the other; and their faces shall look toward the mercy seat. 21. And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the top of the ark, and put in the ark the testimony which I will give thee. 22. Of the place will I testify unto thee, and speak unto thee, even of the mercy seat between the two cherubims, which is upon the ark of the testimony, all that I will command thee unto the children of Israel. 23. Thou shalt also make a table of pine wood; the length thereof shall be two cubits, and the breadth thereof a cubit, and the height thereof a cubit and a half. 24. And thou shalt overlay it with fine gold, and make a garland of gold round about it. 25. And a border round about, the breadth of a hand, and a wreath of gold round about the border. 26. And thou shalt put four rings of gold upon the four places of the four feet thereof. 27. The rings shall be hard under the ledge, to put staves in it, and to bear the table; 28. And thou shalt make the staves of pine wood, and overlay them with gold, to bear the table therewith. 29. Thou shalt also make his bowls, and his cups, and his pots, and his basons, of fine gold, to pour out and to pour in. 30. And thou shalt set shewbread upon the table before me at all times. 31. Thou shalt also make a candlestick of fine dense gold; upon it shall be the shaft with tubes, and bowls, and knops, and flowers. 32. And six tubes shall go out of the candlestick on every side, three tubes on every side. 33. And every tube shall have three open bowls, and knops, and flowers: these are the six tubes of the candlestick. 34. And the shaft of the candlestick shall have four open bowls with knobs and flowers. 35. and one knob under each of two tubes, of which six go out of the candlestick. 36. For both their knobs and their pipes shall come out of him, all of them thick gold. 37. And thou shalt make seven lamps upon the top, and they shall shine one against another, 38. and light snuffers and snuffers of fine gold. 39. Of a talent of fine gold shalt thou make this, with all this instrument. 40. And see that thou make it after their image, which thou sawest in the mount. (Exodus) Chapter 26 Building of the tabernacle. 1. The tabernacle shalt thou make of ten curtains, of white silk, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of russet. And thou shalt make cherubims thereon artificially. 2. The length of a carpet shall be twenty and eight cubits, and the breadth four cubits: and all the ten shall be equal. 3. And there shall be five joined together, one to another. 4. And thou shalt make loops of yellow silk in every place of the carpet, where they shall be joined together; and two and two shall be joined together in their places, 5. Fifty loops upon each carpet, that one may bind the other together. 6. And thou shalt make fifty sheaves of gold to bind the curtains together, one to another, that it may be a tabernacle. 7. Thou shalt also make a covering of goats' hair for a tabernacle over the tabernacle of eleven carpents. 8. The length of a carpet shall be thirty cubits, and the breadth four cubits: and every eleven shall be of the same size. 9. Five shalt thou put together, and six shalt thou put together: and thou shalt make the sixth carpet two in the front of the tabernacle. 10. And thou shalt make fifty loops upon every carpet, in their places, to be joined together at the ends thereof. 11. And thou shalt make fifty brasen haves, and put the haves in the loops, that the tabernacle may be joined together, and become one tabernacle. 12. But the overhang of the carpets of the tabernacle shalt thou leave half of them overhanging the tabernacle, 13. A cubit on either side, that the rest may be on the sides of the tabernacle, and cover it on either side. 14. Over this covering thou shalt make a covering of red ram skins, and over it a covering of badger skins. 15. Thou shalt also make boards for the tabernacle of pine wood, which shall stand. 16. The length of the board shall be ten cubits, and the breadth thereof a cubit and a half. 17. Every board shall have two tenons, that it may be set one against another. So shalt thou make all the boards of the tabernacle. 18. twenty shall be their number at noon. 19. And they shall have forty silver feet underneath, two feet under every board, by the two pins thereof. 20. So on the other side, toward the midnight, shall be twenty boards. 21. And forty silver feet, two feet under each board. 22. And at the back of the tabernacle toward the even thou shalt make six boards. 23. for this purpose two boards at the back of the two corners of the apartment, 24. That each of the two may be joined together with his place-board from beneath, and be joined together at the top of the head with a clamp, 25. Eight boards with their silver feet: sixteen boards shall be under each board, two under each board. 26. And thou shalt make bars of pine wood, five for the boards upon one side of the tabernacle. 27. and five to the boards on the other side of the tabernacle, and five to the boards at the back of the tabernacle toward the evening. 28. And thou shalt put through the bars in the midst of the boards, and gather them together from place to place. 29. And thou shalt overlay the boards with gold, and make the rings thereof of gold, and put the bars therein. 30. And the bars thou shalt overlay with gold. And thou shalt set up the tabernacle after the manner that thou sawest in the mount. 31. And thou shalt make a vail of yellow silk, and scarlet, and scarlet, and twined white silk; and thou shalt make cherubims artificially thereon. 32. And thou shalt hang it upon four pillars of pine wood overlaid with gold, having gold knobs, and four silver feet. 33. And thou shalt fasten the curtain with thongs, and set the ark of the testimony within the curtain, that it may be a difference unto you between the holy place and the most holy. 34. And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony in the most holy place. 35. And set the table over against the curtain, and the candlestick over against the table, toward the midst of the tabernacle, that the table may stand toward the north. 36. And thou shalt make a cloth in the door of the tabernacle, of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk. 37. And thou shalt make of the same cloth five pillars of pine wood overlaid with gold, with crowns of gold: and thou shalt cast them five feet of brass. (Exodus) Chapter 27 Of the altar of burnt offering, the court, and the holy oil. 1. And thou shalt make an altar of pine wood, five cubits long and five cubits broad, and it shall be square, and three cubits high. 2. Horns shalt thou make upon the four corners thereof, and shalt overlay it with brass. 3. Make also ashpans, and shovels, and basons, and crucibles, and coalpans: all the vessels thereof shalt thou make of brass. 4. Thou shalt also make a fence of brass as a net, and four rings of brass in the four places thereof. 5. And thou shalt make it from under the altar, and the lattice shall reach unto the midst of the altar. 6. And thou shalt also make staves for the altar of pine wood overlaid with brass. 7. And thou shalt put the staves in the rings, and the staves shall be on both sides of the altar, to bear it up. 8. And thou shalt make it of boards, that it may be hollow within, as it was shewed thee in the mount. 9. Thou shalt also make the tabernacle a court, a cloak of twined white silk, on one side an hundred cubits long, toward the south, 10. And twenty pillars upon twenty brass feet, and their knobs with their hoops of silver. 11. And there shall be a cloak about the north, an hundred cubits long; twenty pillars upon twenty feet of brass, and their pommels with their hoops of silver. 12. But toward the even the breadth of the court shall have a cape fifty cubits long, ten pillars upon ten feet. 13. And toward the east the breadth of the court shall be fifty cubits, 14. So that the cloak had fifteen cubits on one side, and three pillars on three feet, 15. And fifteen cubits on the other side, and three pillars upon three feet. 16. And in the gate of the court shall be a cloth twenty cubits broad, woven of yellow silk, and scarlet, and rose, and twined white silk, with four pillars upon their four feet. 17. All the pillars round about the court shall have silver hoops, and silver knobs, and brazen feet. 18. And the length of the court shall be an hundred cubits, and the breadth fifty cubits, and the height five cubits, of twined white silk: and the feet thereof shall be brass. 19. And all the vessels of the tabernacle for all the service thereof, and all the nails thereof, and all the nails of the court, shall be brass. 20. Give unto the children of Israel, that they may bring unto thee the pure oil of the olive tree, poured out for a candle, to be put always in the lamps above. 21. In the tabernacle of the congregation, beside the vail that hangeth before the testimony. And Aaron and his sons shall prepare them, both morning and evening, before the LORD. This shall be for you a perpetual ordinance unto your seed among the children of Israel. (Exodus) Chapter 28 Priestly garments of Aaron and his sons. 1. And thou shalt take Aaron thy brother and his sons unto thee out of the children of Israel, to be my priest, even Aaron and his sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. 2. And thou shalt make unto Aaron thy brother holy garments, that shall be glorious and comely. 3. And thou shalt speak unto all that are of a wise heart, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, to make Aaron's garments for his consecration, that he may be my priest. 4. And these are the garments which they shall make: the shield, the ephod, the silk skirt, the skirt, the hat, and the girdle. And they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and for his sons, that he may be my priest. 5. And they shall take gold, and yellow silk, and scarlet, and scarlet, and white silk. 6. And they shall make the ephod of gold, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk, artificially, 7. that it be joined together at both armpits, and bound together at both sides. 8. And the girdle thereof shall be of the same art and work, of gold, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk. 9. And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave upon them the names of the children of Israel, 10. On every six names, according to the order of their age. 11. This shalt thou do by the stonecutters, which dig seals, that they may be set about with gold. 12. And thou shalt put them upon the shoulders of the ephod, and they shall be stones for a memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names upon his two shoulders before the LORD for a memorial. 13. And thou shalt make bracelets of gold. 14. And two chains of fine gold, having two ends, but the links hanging one within the other; and thou shalt put them upon the clasps. 15. And thou shalt make the tabernacle after the fashion of the ephod, of gold, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk. 16. Foursquare shall it be, and twofold; the length thereof shall be a handbreadth, and the breadth thereof a handbreadth. 17. And thou shalt fill it with four courses of stones. The first tier shall be a sardius, a topaz, an emerald; 18. the other a ruby, sapphire, demant; 19. the third a lyncury, agate, amethyst; 20. The fourth shall be turquoise, onyx, and jasper. They shall be set in gold in all ranks. 21. And they shall stand after the twelve names of the children of Israel, dug by the stonecutter, every one of his name, after the twelve tribes. 22. And thou shalt make chains for the shield, having two ends, and the links thereof hanging together, of fine gold, 23. And two rings of gold upon the small shield; and thou shalt put the two rings upon the two corners of the small shield. 24. And put the two chains of gold in the same two rings at the two corners of the shield. 25. And the two ends of the two chains thou shalt put in two bands, and fasten them upon the shoulders of the ephod one over against the other. 26. And thou shalt make two other rings of gold, and put them upon the other two corners of the shield in his place, within the ephod. 27. And thou shalt make two rings of gold, and fasten them one to another at the two corners of the lower part of the ephod, where the ephod is joined together, on the upper part of the ephod, artificially. 28. And the shield shall be fastened with fine rings unto the rings of the ephod with a yellow cord, that it may lie hard upon the ephod which is made artificially, and that the shield may not come loose from the ephod. 29. So Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the small charge upon his heart, when he prayeth in the holy place, for a memorial before the LORD at all times. 30. And thou shalt put light and judgment in the charge, that they may be upon Aaron's heart, when he goeth in before the LORD, and bear the charge of the children of Israel upon his heart before the LORD continually. 31. Thou shalt also make the silk skirt under the ephod, all of yellow silk. 32. And there shall be a hole in the midst thereof above, and a border folded about the hole, that it be not rent. 33. And at the bottom of the border thereof thou shalt make pomegranates of yellow silk, scarlet round about, and scarlet round about, and between them golden bells round about, 34. That there should be a golden bowl, and after that a pomegranate, and a golden bowl, and again a pomegranate, round about the hem of the same silk skirt. 35. And Aaron shall wear it when he ministereth, that the sound thereof may be heard, when he goeth out and cometh in unto the holy place before the LORD, that he die not. 36. Thou shalt also make a forehead plate of fine gold, and dig it out, as one diggeth out seals: the holiness of the LORD. 37. And thou shalt fasten it with a yellow cord in the front of the hat, 38. Upon Aaron's forehead, that Aaron should bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel sanctify in all the gifts of their sanctification: and it shall be in his forehead continually, to make an atonement for them before the LORD. 39. And thou shalt make a skirt of white silk, and a hat of white silk, and a girdle of embroidery. 40. And unto the sons of Aaron shalt thou make skirts, and girdles, and bonnets, glorious and comely. 41. And thou shalt put them on Aaron thy brother, and on his sons, and shalt anoint them, and fill their hands, and consecrate them, that they may be my priests. 42. And thou shalt make them low garments of linen, to cover the flesh of the shame, from the loins even unto the thighs. 43. And Aaron and his sons shall wear them, when they go into the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar, to minister in the sanctuary, that they ask not their iniquity, and die. This shall be to him and to his seed after him a perpetual manner. (Exodus) Chapter 29 Inauguration and sacrifice of the priests. 1. This also shalt thou do unto them, that they may be ordained priests unto me: Take a young bullock, and two rams without change, 2. Unleavened bread, and unleavened cakes mingled with oil, and unleavened cakes anointed with oil. Of wheat flour shalt thou make all these things; 3. And thou shalt put it in a basket, and bring it in the basket with the bullock and the two rams. 4. And thou shalt bring Aaron and his sons unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water; 5. And thou shalt take the garments, and put on Aaron the skirt, and the silk skirt, and the ephod, and the buckler for the ephod; and thou shalt gird him upon the ephod without. 6. And put the hat upon his head, and the holy crown upon his hat. 7. And thou shalt take the anointing oil, and pour it upon his head, and anoint him. 8. And thou shalt bring his sons also, and put on them the skirt; 9. And thou shalt gird both Aaron and them with girdles, and put on their bonnets, that they may have the priesthood for ever. And thou shalt fill Aaron's hands, and his sons' hands. 10. And they shall bring the bullock before the tabernacle of the congregation: and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands upon the bullock's head. 11. And thou shalt kill the bullock before the LORD, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 12. And thou shalt take his blood, and put it upon the horns of the altar with thy finger, and pour out all the blood upon the floor of the altar. 13. And thou shalt take all the fat that is upon the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that is upon them, and burn them upon the altar. 14. But the flesh of the bullock, and the hide thereof, and the dung thereof, shalt thou burn with fire without the camp: for it is a sin offering. 15. But the one ram shalt thou take, and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands upon his head. 16. Then thou shalt slay him, and take of his blood, and sprinkle it upon the altar round about. 17. And thou shalt cut the ram in pieces, and wash his inwards, and his thighs; and shalt put them upon his pieces, and upon his head. 18. And burn the whole ram upon the altar: for it is a burnt offering unto the LORD, a sweet savour, a fire of the LORD. 19. And the other ram shalt thou take, and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands upon his head. 20. And thou shalt slay him, and take of his blood, and put it upon the right earbud of Aaron, and upon the right earbud of his sons, and upon the thumb of their right hand, and upon the great toe of their right foot; and thou shalt sprinkle the blood upon the altar round about. 21. And thou shalt take the blood upon the altar, and the anointing oil, and sprinkle it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon their garments; and he and his garments, and his sons, and their garments, shall be consecrated. 22. And thou shalt take the fat of the ram, the tail, and the fat of the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys with the fat over them, and the right shoulder; for it is a ram of plenty. 23. And one loaf, and one cake of oil, and one cake of the basket of unleavened bread, which is before the LORD. 24. And put it all into the hands of Aaron and his sons, and weave it unto the LORD. 25. Afterward take it from their hands, and burn it upon the altar for a burnt offering, for a sweet savour before the LORD: for it is the fire of the LORD. 26. And thou shalt take the breast of the ram of Aaron's fullness, and shalt weave it before the LORD. This shall be thy portion. 27. And thou shalt sanctify the wave breast and the heave shoulder, which are woven and hewed of the ram of the fullness of Aaron, and of his sons. 28. And Aaron's offering, and his sons' offerings, shall be for ever of the children of Israel: for it is a heave offering. And the heave offerings shall be of the LORD from the children of Israel in their peace offerings and their heave sacrifices. 29. But the holy garments of Aaron shall be for his sons after him, to anoint them in them, and to fill their hands. 30. And whosoever of his sons shall become priests in his stead, he shall put them on seven days, and go into the tabernacle of the congregation to minister in the holy place. 31. And thou shalt take the ram of the stuffing, and boil the flesh thereof in a holy place. 32. And Aaron and his sons shall eat the flesh of the same ram, and the bread that is in the basket, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 33. For atonement is made therewith, to fill their hands, that they may be sanctified. No other shall eat it, for it is holy. 34. And if any of the flesh of the stuffing, or of the bread, remain unto the morning, thou shalt burn it with fire, and not eat it: for it is holy. 35. And thou shalt do therefore unto Aaron and unto his sons all that I have commanded thee. Seven days shalt thou fill their hands 36. And thou shalt kill a bullock daily for a sin offering, to make an atonement for him. And thou shalt sanctify the altar, when thou makest atonement for it; and thou shalt anoint it, that it may be consecrated. 37. Seven days shalt thou make an atonement for the altar, and consecrate it, that it may be an altar, the most holy. He that toucheth the altar shall be consecrated. 38. And this shalt thou do unto the altar. Two lambs of the first year shalt thou offer upon it every day, 39. One lamb in the morning, the other between evenings. 40. And to one lamb a tithe of fine flour, mingled with four parts of one hin of crushed oil, and four parts of one hin of wine for a drink offering. 41. And thou shalt do with the other lamb between the evenings, as thou didst with the meat offering and the drink offering of the morning, for a sweet savour, a fire unto the LORD. 42. This is the daily burnt offering unto your seed at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, before the LORD, where I will testify unto you, and speak unto you. 43. There will I be known unto the children of Israel, and will be sanctified in my glory. 44. And I will sanctify the tabernacle of the congregation with the altar, and consecrate Aaron and his sons to be priests unto me. 45. And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and be their God, 46. That they may know that I am the LORD their God, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, that I may dwell among them, I the LORD their God. (Exodus) Chapter 30 Of the altar of incense, the tax imposed, hand-grip, anointing oil, and incense. 1. Thou shalt also make an altar of incense of pine wood, 2. a rush long and broad, equal to four cubits, and two cubits high with its horns. 3. And thou shalt overlay it with fine gold, the roof thereof, and the walls thereof round about, and the horns thereof. And thou shalt make a garland of gold round about it. 4. And two rings of gold under the wreath on either side, to put staves therein, and to bear it therewith. 5. The staves also shalt thou make of pine wood, and overlay them with gold. 6. And thou shalt set it before the vail that hangeth before the ark of the testimony, and before the mercy seat that is upon the testimony, from whence I will testify unto thee. 7. And Aaron shall burn thereon good incense every morning, when he dresseth the lamps. 8. And likewise, when he lighteth the lamps between the evenings, he shall burn incense. This shall be the daily incense before the LORD unto your seed. 9. Ye shall put no strange incense thereon, neither shall ye offer burnt offering, nor meat offering, nor drink offering thereon. 10. And Aaron shall make an atonement upon his horns once in the year with the blood of the sin offering to make an atonement. And this atonement shall be made yearly among your seed: for it is most holy unto the LORD. 11. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 12. When thou shalt number the heads of the children of Israel, let every man make an atonement for his soul unto the LORD, that no plague befall them when they are numbered. 13. And every one that is numbered shall give half a shekel, according to the shekel of the sanctuary (a shekel is twenty gerahs). This half a shekel shall be the heave offering of the LORD. 14. He that is twenty years old and upward in number shall offer such a heave offering unto the LORD. 15. The rich shall not give more, neither shall the poor give less than half a shekel, which shall be given to the LORD to make an atonement for their souls. 16. And thou shalt take such money of atonement of the children of Israel, and put it by the service of the tabernacle of the congregation, that it may be a memorial unto the children of Israel before the LORD, to make an atonement for their souls. 17. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 18. Thou shalt also make a brasen handstand with a brasen foot to wash in; and thou shalt set it between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and put water therein, 19. And Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet in it, 20. When they go into the tabernacle of the congregation, or unto the altar, to minister with incense, a fire of the LORD, 21. That they die not. This shall be a perpetual manner unto him, and to his seed in their generations. 22. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying. 23. Take unto thee the best spices, the most precious myrrh, five hundred (sekels); and tinamet, half as much, two hundred and fifty; and calamus, also two hundred and fifty, 24. And cassia, five hundred, according to the sekel of the sanctuary, and oil of the olive tree a hin, 25. And make a holy anointing oil according to the apothecary's art. 26. And thou shalt anoint therewith the tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, 27. The table with all his vessels, the candlestick with his vessels, the altar of incense, 28. The altar of burnt offering, and all the vessels thereof, and the censer with the foot thereof. 29. And thou shalt consecrate them, that they may be the most holy: for he that toucheth them shall be consecrated. 30. Aaron also and his sons shalt thou anoint, and ordain them priests unto me. 31. And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying: This oil shall be unto me a holy ointment among your seed. 32. It shall not be poured into the body of man, neither shall ye make any like it: for it is holy, therefore it shall be holy unto you. 33. Whosoever maketh any of these things, or giveth any of them unto another, he shall be cut off from among his people. 34. And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee spices, and balm, and staves, and galban, and pure frankincense, one as much as another, 35. And make incense of it, blended according to the apothecary's art, that it may be pure and holy. 36. And thou shalt put it to powder, and shalt put it before the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation, from whence I will testify unto thee. This shall be unto you the most holy thing. 37. And ye shall not make the like incense unto you, but it shall be holy unto thee unto the LORD. 38. And whosoever shall make any of them to burn incense therewith shall be cut off from among his people. (Exodus) Chapter 31 Appointment of the foremen. Sabbath observance. Tablets of the law. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Behold, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Us, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, and understanding, and knowledge, and with all manner of work, 4. to work artificially on gold, silver, ore, 5. to cut and set stone artificially, and to timber artificially, to make all manner of work. 6. And, behold, I have given unto him Ahaliab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and I have put wisdom in the heart of all wise men, that they should do all that I have commanded thee: 7. The tabernacle of the congregation, the ark of the testimony, the mercy seat upon it, and all the vessels of the tabernacle, 8. The table and the vessels thereof, the fine candlestick and all the vessels thereof, the altar of incense, 9. The altar of burnt offering, and all the vessels thereof, and the censer with the foot thereof, 10. The garments of the priesthood, and the holy garments of Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister priestly, 11. The anointing oil and the incense of spices for the sanctuary. All that I have commanded thee, they shall do; 12. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 13. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Keep my sabbath day: for it is a sign between me and you unto your seed, that ye may know that I am the LORD which sanctifieth you. 14. Therefore keep my sabbath day: for it shall be holy unto you. He that profanes it shall be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, his soul shall be cut off from among his people. 15. Six days shall a man labour: but the seventh day is the sabbath, the holy rest of the LORD. Whosoever doeth any work on the sabbath day shall surely be put to death. 16. Therefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to keep it also unto their seed for an everlasting covenant. 17. He is an everlasting sign between me and the children of Israel. For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth: but in the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. 18. And when the LORD had spoken unto Moses in mount Sinai, he gave him two tables of the testimony, which were of stone, written with the finger of God. (Exodus) Chapter 32 Idolatry with the cast calf. 1. And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come out of the mount, they gathered themselves together against Aaron, and said unto him, Arise, and make us gods to go before us. For we know not what befell this man Moses, which brought us up out of the land of Egypt. 2. And Aaron said unto them: Tear off the earrings of gold from the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me. 3. And all the people plucked off their earrings of gold from their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. 4. And he took it from their hands, and drew it out with a stylus, and made a cast calf. And they said: These are thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. 5. And when Aaron saw it, he built an altar before it, and proclaimed, saying, To morrow is the feast of the LORD. 6. And they arose early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings. And afterward the people sat down to eat and to drink, and they ceased to play. 7. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go down, get thee down: for thy people, which thou broughtest up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves. 8. They went quickly out of the way which I commanded them. And they made them a cast calf, and worshipped it, and sacrificed unto it, saying, These are thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. 9. And the LORD said unto Moses, I see that they are a stiff-necked people. 10. And now let my wrath be kindled against them, and devour them, and I will make thee a great nation. 11. And Moses besought the LORD his God, saying, O LORD, why will thy wrath be kindled against thy people, whom thou hast brought out of the land of Egypt with great strength and with a mighty hand? 12. Why should the Egyptians say, saying: He hath brought them out to their evil, to slay them in the mountains, and to destroy them from off the face of the earth? Turn away the fury of thine anger, and be merciful to the wickedness of thy people. 13. Remember thy servants, Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, to whom thou swarest by thyself, and promisedst unto them: I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven; and all the land which I have promised I will give unto your seed, and they shall possess it for ever. 14. So the LORD repented of the evil which he was about to do unto his people. 15. And Moses turned, and came down from the mount, having in his hand two tables of the testimony written on both sides. 16. And God had made them Himself, and had dug the writing therein Himself. 17. And it came to pass, when Joshua heard the cry of the people, that they shouted, that he said unto Moses, There is a shout in the camp, as in the battle. 18. And he answered, It is not a cry one against another, of them that are subject, and of them that are under: but I hear a cry of a singing. 19. And when he was come nigh unto the camp, and saw the calf and the round dance, he was enraged with wrath, and cast the tables out of his hand, and brake them in pieces at the bottom of the mountain. 20. And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it with fire, and ground it to powder, and sprinkled it upon the waters, and gave it to the children of Israel to drink. 21. And said unto Aaron, What have the people done unto thee, that thou hast committed so great a sin? 22. And Aaron said, My lord let not his anger be kindled. Thou knowest that this people is wicked. 23. And they said unto me, Make us gods to go before us: for we know not the way of this man Moses, which brought us up out of the land of Egypt. 24. And I said unto them: He that hath gold, let him pluck it off, and give it me. And I cast it into the fire; and out of it came the calf. 25. And it came to pass, when Moses saw that the people were loosed, (for Aaron had loosed them with a gossip, that he might bring them to nought,) that the people were loosed, 26. And he entered into the gate of the camp, and said, Come unto me, ye that belong to the LORD. And all the children of Levi were gathered unto him. 27. And he said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Gird every man his sword upon his loins, and pass through from gate to gate in the lay, and slay every man his brother, and his friend, and his neighbour. 28. And the children of Levi did as Moses had said unto them, and they fell that day of the people three thousand men. 29; And Moses said, Fill your hands this day with the LORD, every man with his son, and with his brother; that a blessing may be upon you this day. 30. And Moses said unto the people in the morning, Ye have sinned a great sin: now will I go up unto the LORD, and see if I may make reconciliation for your sin. 31. And when Moses returned unto the LORD, he said, Alas, the people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods of gold. 32. Now therefore forgive them their sin. If not, blot me also out of thy book which thou hast written. 33. And the LORD said unto Moses, What? I will blot out of my book him that sinneth against me. 34. Go therefore, and lead the people, whither I have said unto thee. Behold, my angel shall go before thee. I will punish their sin when my time comes to punish them. 35. So the LORD punished the people, because they had made the calf which Aaron had made. (Exodus) Chapter 33 Moses prays for the people and desires to see the glory of the Lord. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Get thee hence, thou, and the people which thou hast brought out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it. 2. And I will send an angel before thee, and will cast out the Canaanites, and the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites; 3. Into the land where milk and honey flow within. I will not go up with thee: for thou art a stiffnecked people. I would devour thee by the way. 4. And when the people heard this wicked speech, they suffered affliction, and no man wore his ornaments upon him. 5. And the LORD said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiffnecked people. I will come upon thee suddenly, and will destroy thee. And now put away thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what I shall do unto thee. 6. So the children of Israel put off their ornaments from before mount Horeb. 7. And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without, before the camp, and called it a tabernacle of the congregation. And whosoever would inquire of the LORD must go out unto the tabernacle of the congregation before the camp. 8. And it came to pass, when Moses went out unto the tabernacle, that all the people arose, and entered every man into his tent, and watched him until he came into the tabernacle. 9. And it came to pass, when Moses was come into the tabernacle, that the pillar of cloud descended, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and talked with Moses. 10. And all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing in the door of the tabernacle; and they arose, and bowed themselves every man in the door of his tabernacle. 11. And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And when he returned to the camp, Joshua his servant the son of Nun, the young man, departed not out of the tabernacle. 12. And Moses said unto the LORD, Behold, thou sayest unto me, Bring up the people, and let me not know whom thou wilt send with me, when thou hast said: I know thee by name, and thou hast found grace in mine eyes. 13. If then I have found grace in thine eyes, let me know thy way, that I may know thee, and find grace in thine eyes. And behold, this people is thy people. 14. And he said, Let my face go, and I will guide thee. 15. And he said unto him, If thy face go not, bring us not up thence. 16. For how shall it be known that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight, except thou walk with us? that I and thy people may be glorified before all the people that are upon the face of the earth. 17. And the LORD said unto Moses, What thou hast spoken now will I do: for thou hast found grace in mine eyes, and I know thee by name. 18. And he said, Let me see thy glory. 19. And he said: I will make all my goodness pass before thy face, and will cause the name of the LORD to be preached before thee. And to whom I am gracious, I am gracious: and on whom I have mercy, I have mercy. 20. And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for no man shall live that seeth me. 21. And the LORD said again, Behold, there is a place with me, and thou shalt stand upon the rock. 22. And it shall come to pass, when my glory is past, that I will leave thee in the cleft of the rock, and my hand shall be upon thee until I pass by. 23. And if I put away my hand from thee, thou shalt look behind me: but my face cannot be seen. (Exodus) Chapter 34 New Tablets of the Law. Covenant of God. Moses' shining face. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Hew thee two tables of stone, like unto the first, that I may write upon them the words which were in the first tables which thou didst break. 2. And be ready in the morning to go up early unto mount Sinai, and there to meet me in the top of the mountain. 3. And let no man go up with thee, that no man be seen round about all the mountain: neither let sheep nor ox feed against this mountain. 4. And Moses cut two tables of stone, as the first were, and rose up early in the morning, and went up into mount Sinai, as the LORD commanded him, and took the two tables of stone in his hand. 5. And the LORD came down in a cloud, and stood there with him, and preached the name of the LORD. 6. And when the LORD was passed over before his face, he cried, O LORD God, merciful, and gracious, and patient, and of great mercy and faithfulness; 7. Who showest mercy to a thousand generations, and forgivest iniquity, and transgression, and sin; before whom no man is innocent: who visitest the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and fourth generation. 8. And Moses made haste, and bowed himself to the earth, and worshipped him, 9. And said, If I, O LORD, have found grace in thine eyes, let the LORD go with us: for they are a stiffnecked people, that thou wilt have mercy on us for our iniquity and for our sin, and let us be thine inheritance. 10. And he said, Behold, I will make a covenant before all thy people, and will do wonders such as are not made in all countries, nor among all people: and all the people that are among thee shall see the work of the LORD: for wonderful shall be the work that I will do in thee. 11. Keep that which I command thee this day. Behold, I will drive out before thee the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 12. Beware lest thou make a league with the inhabitants of the land, when thou comest in, lest they be a nuisance unto thee among you; 13. But thou shalt overthrow their altars, and break down their idols, and cut off their groves. 14. For thou shalt worship no other god. For the LORD is called a zealot, because he is a zealous God. 15. That, when thou makest a covenant with the inhabitants of the land, and they go whoring after their gods, and sacrifice unto their gods, they may not invite thee, and thou mayest eat of their sacrifice; 16. And thou shalt take thy sons their daughters to be wives, and they shall whore after their gods, and make thy sons also to whore after their gods. 17. Thou shalt not make thee cast gods. 18. The feast of unleavened bread shalt thou keep. Seven days thou shalt eat unleavened bread, as I commanded thee, about the time of the moon Abib: for in the moon Abib thou camest out of Egypt. 19. Every thing that first breaketh his mother is mine: that which shall be male in thy cattle which breaketh his mother, whether it be ox or sheep. 20. But the firstling of the ass shalt thou loose with a sheep. And if thou loose it not, then break his neck. All the firstborn of thy sons thou shalt redeem. And let no man appear before me empty. 21. Six days shalt thou labour: on the seventh day shalt thou feast, both plowing and reaping: 22. The feast of weeks shalt thou keep with the firstfruits of the wheat harvest, and the feast of ingathering when the year is ended. 23. Three times in the year shall all the names of the men appear before the LORD, the LORD God of Israel. 24. When I cast out the heathen from before thee, and enlarge thy border, then shall no man desire thy land, while thou goest up three times in the year to appear before the LORD thy God. 25. Thou shalt not offer the blood of my sacrifice upon the leavened bread: and the sacrifice of the passover shall remain until the morning. 26. The firstling of the firstfruits of thy field shalt thou bring into the house of the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not boil the kid while it is still at its mother's milk. 27. And the LORD said unto Moses, Write these words: for according to these words have I made a covenant with thee, and with Israel. 28. And he was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights, eating one loaf, and drinking no water. And he wrote upon the tables this covenant, the ten words. 29. And Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of the testimony in his hand, and knew not that the skin of his face shone because he had spoken unto him. 30. And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw that the skin of his face shone, they feared to come near unto him. 31. And Moses called unto them, and they turned unto him, both Aaron, and all the rulers of the congregation: and he spake unto them. 32. And afterward all the children of Israel drew nigh unto him. And he commanded them all that the LORD had spoken unto him in mount Sinai. 33. And when he spake all these things unto them, he put a covering upon his face. 34. And when he went in before the LORD to speak with him, he took off the covering, until he came out again. And when he came forth, and spake unto the children of Israel, as he was commanded, 35. Then the children of Israel looked upon his face, as the skin of his countenance shone: so he put the covering again upon his face, until he went in again to speak with him. (Exodus) Chapter 35 Sabbath rest. Voluntary tax. Occupation of the workmasters. 1. And Moses gathered together all the congregation of the children of Israel, and said unto them: This is the thing which the LORD hath commanded that ye should do: 2. Six days ye shall labour: but the seventh day ye shall keep holy, a sabbath of rest unto the LORD. Whosoever worketh therein shall die. 3. Ye shall not kindle fire on the sabbath day in all your dwellings. 4. And Moses said unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, This is that the LORD hath commanded: 5. Offer ye among yourselves an heave offering unto the LORD, that every man may willingly offer the heave offering of the LORD, gold, silver, brass, 6. Yellow silk, scarlet, rose, white silk and goat hair, 7. reddish ram fur, badger fur and pine wood, 8. oil for a lamp, and spices for an ointment, and for good incense, 9. onyx and stones set for the ephod and for the shield. 10. And whosoever he be of you that hath understanding, let him come and do that which the LORD hath commanded: 11. Namely, the tabernacle, with the hut thereof, and the ceiling thereof, and the rafters thereof, and the boards thereof, and the pillars thereof, and the feet thereof; 12. The ark with its poles, the mercy seat and curtain; 13. The table with his staves, and all his vessels, and the shewbread; 14. The candlestick to shine, and the vessels thereof, and the lamps thereof, and the oil to light; 15. The altar of incense with the staves thereof, and the ointment, and the spices for the incense, and the cloth that is before the door of the tabernacle; 16. And the altar of burnt offering, with the brasen grate thereof, and the staves thereof, and all the vessels thereof; and the censer with the foot thereof; 17. The cloak of the court with its pillars and feet, and the cloth of the gate of the court; 18. the nails of the tabernacle and of the court with their pillars 19. The garments of the ministry for the service of the holy things, the holy garments of Aaron the priest, with the garments of his sons for the priesthood. 20. And all the congregation of the children of Israel went out from Moses. 21. And all they that gladly and willingly gave came and brought the heave offering unto the LORD for the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments. 22. And both man and woman, whosoever would, brought harness, and earrings, and rings, and buckles, and all manner of vessels of gold. And every man brought gold for a garment unto the LORD. 23. And whosoever found with him yellow silk, and scarlet, and scarlet, and white silk, and goats' hair, and reddish rams' skins, and badgers' skins, brought them. 24. And whosoever lifted up silver and brass brought it for an offering unto the LORD. And whosoever found pine wood with him brought it for all manner of work of worship. 25. And they that were wise wives wrought with their hands, and brought forth their work of yellow silk, and scarlet, and rose-coloured, and white silk. 26. And the women that were able and willing to do this work wrought goats' hair. 27. And the princes brought onyx, and stones set for their ephods, and for their shields. 28. And spices, and oil for lights, and for ointment, and for good incense. 29. So the children of Israel brought willingly, both man and woman, to do all the work which the LORD commanded by Moses to be done. 30. And Moses said unto the children of Israel, Behold, the LORD hath called by name Bezaleel the son of Us, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 31. And hath filled him with the Spirit of God, that he should be wise, and understanding, and able to do all manner of work, 32. to work artificially on gold, silver, and ore, 33. to cut and set precious stone, to carpenter wood, to make all manner of artificial work. 34. And he taught him his heart, and Ahaliab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. 35. He hath filled their hearts with wisdom to make all manner of work, to cut, to work, and to embroider with yellow silk, and scarlet, and purple, and white silk, and with weaving, to make all manner of work, and to invent workmanship. (Exodus) Chapter 36 The pieces of the shrine are being made. 1. Then Bezaleel, and Ahaliab, and all the wise men, to whom the LORD had given wisdom and understanding to know how to do all manner of work, laboured for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the LORD had commanded. 2. And Moses called unto Bezaleel, and unto Ahaliab, and unto all the wise men, unto whom the LORD had given wisdom in their hearts, even unto all them that offered themselves willingly, and went to work in the work. 3. And they took unto them of Moses all the offerings which the children of Israel brought for the work of the service of the sanctuary, to make it. For every morning they brought their willing offerings unto him. 4. Then came all the wise men that wrought in the work of the sanctuary, every man of his work that they wrought, 5. And they said unto Moses, The people bring too much, more than is needful for the work of this service, which the LORD commanded to be done. 6. And Moses commanded that they should cry throughout the camp, saying, No man shall lift up the sanctuary any more. And the people ceased from bringing. 7. For there was enough of the thing for every work that was to be done, and yet was left. 8. So all the wise men among the workmen made the tabernacle, ten carpets of twined white silk, yellow silk, scarlet, rosy, cherubims, artificial. 9. The length of a carpet was twenty and eight cubits, and the breadth four cubits; and they were all of one measure. 10. And he fastened five curtains together, one to another. 11. And he made yellow loops in the place of every carpet, where they were joined together. 12. Fifty loops each to a carpet, that one might take hold of another. 13. And he made fifty coils of gold, and joined the rugs together with the coils, one to another, to make a tabernacle. 14. And he made eleven carpets of goats' hair for the tabernacle, 15. Thirty cubits long and four cubits wide, all in one measure. 16. And he put five of them together in one part, and six together in the other part. 17. And he made fifty loops upon every carpet in the place, to bind them together. 18. And he made every one fifty pieces of brass, that the tabernacle might be joined together into one. 19. And he made a covering over the tabernacle of red rams' skins, and over them a covering of badgers' skins. 20. And made boards for the tabernacle of pine wood to stand upon, 21. Each ten cubits long, and a cubit and a half broad, 22. And on every one two tenons, to set one against another. So he made all the boards for a dwelling, 23. that the same boards were twenty about noon; 24. And he made forty silver feet under them, and under every board two feet upon the two tenons thereof. 25. And on the other side of the tabernacle, about midnight, he made twenty boards. 26. With forty silver feet, under every board two feet. 27. But at the back of the tabernacle toward the evening he made six boards, 28. and two others at the back at the two corners of the apartment, 29. That each of them should be joined together with his place board from beneath, and be joined together at the top of the head with a clamp, 30. That the boards might be eight, and sixteen silver feet, under every one two feet. 31. And he made bars of pine wood, five for the boards upon the one side of the tabernacle. 32. and five on the other side, and five behind, towards the evening. 33. And he made the bars to thrust them through the midst of the boards from end to end. 34. And he overlaid the boards with gold, and made the bars thereof of gold, and overlaid the bars with gold. 35. And he made the curtain with the cherubims upon it of yellow silk, and scarlet, and scarlet, and twined white silk, artificially. 36. And he made for them four pillars of pine wood, and overlaid them with gold, and their heads with gold, and cast four silver feet for them. 37. And made a cloth in the door of the tabernacle; of yellow silk, scarlet, and rose-red, and twined white silk embroidered, 38. And five pillars thereof with their heads, and overlaid their heads and rims with gold; and five brass feet thereon. (Exodus) Chapter 37 Of some utensils of the sanctuary. 1. And Bezaleel made the ark of pine wood, three cubits and a half long, and a cubit and a half broad, and high, 2. And he overlaid her with fine gold within and without, and made her a garland of gold round about. 3. And he poured four golden prongs upon the four corners thereof, two on each side. 4. And he made staves of pine wood, and overlaid them with gold. 5. And he put them in the rings by the sides of the ark, to be carried. 6. And he made the mercy seat of fine gold, three cubits and a half long, and a cubit and a half broad. 7. And made two cherubims of strong gold at the two ends of the mercy seat, 8. One cherub at this end, the other at that end. 9. And the cherubims spread forth their wings from above, and covered the mercy seat therewith: and their faces were turned toward one another, and looked upon the mercy seat. 10. And he made the table of pine wood, two cubits long, and a cubit broad, and a cubit and a half high. 11. And he overlaid him with fine gold, and made him a garland of gold round about. 12. And he made him a border round about, the breadth of a hand: and he made a garland of gold round about the border. 13. And he poured out four golden rings, and put them in the four places of his four feet. 14. hard on the ledge, that the staves might be in, to bear the table. 15. And he made the staves of pine wood, and overlaid them with gold, to bear the table therewith. 16. And he made also of fine gold vessels for the table, bowls, and cups, and pots, and dishes, to pour out and to pour in. 17. And he made the candlestick of fine and thick gold. And the shaft thereof was with tubes, and with bowls, and with knops, and with flowers. 18. Six tubes went out on his sides, on every side three tubes. 19. Three bowls were on every reed with knobs and flowers. 20. And on the candlestick were four bowls with knobs and flowers, 21. One knob under every two tubes, so that six tubes came out of it, 22. And the knobs thereof, and the tubes thereof, and all were of thick and fine gold. 23. And he made the seven lamps with their lanterns and their snuffers of fine gold. 24. Of a talent of fine gold made he him, and all his vessels. 25. He made also the altar of incense of pine wood, a cubit long and broad, foursquare, and two cubits high, with his horns. 26. And he overlaid it with fine gold, and the roof thereof, and the walls thereof round about, and the horns thereof. And he made him a garland round about of gold. 27. And two golden rings under the wreath on either side, to put staves in it, and to bear it therewith. 28. And he made the staves of pine wood, and overlaid them with gold. 29. And made the holy ointment and incense of pure spices after the apothecary's craft. (Exodus) Chapter 38 Considerable sum of applied gold, silver and ore. 1. And he made the altar of burnt offering of pine wood, five cubits long and broad, foursquare, and three cubits high. 2. And made four horns to go out of it, upon the four corners thereof; and overlaid it with brass. 3. And he made all manner of vessels for the altar, ashtrays, and shovels, and basons, and crucibles, and charcoal pans, all of brass. 4. And he made upon the altar a lattice of brass round about, like a net, from the bottom even unto the half of the altar. 5. And he poured out four prongs into the four places of the fence of brass for staves. 6: These he made of pine wood, and overlaid them with brass. 7. And he put them in the rings on the sides of the altar, to bear it up therewith: and he made it hollow within. 8. And he made the handstand of brass, and the foot thereof also of brass, against the women that ministered at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 9. And he made a court toward the south, with a cloak an hundred cubits long, of twined white silk, 10. With their twenty pillars and twenty feet of brass, but their knobs and hoops of silver; 11. Of the same about the north an hundred cubits, with twenty pillars and twenty feet of brass, but their knobs and hoops of silver; 12. And toward the even fifty cubits, having ten pillars and ten feet, and their knobs and their hoops of silver: and the king's sons were of the king's house: 13. And toward the east fifty cubits, 14. Fifteen cubits on each side of the gate at the court, each with three pillars and three feet, 15. And on the other side fifteen cubits: so that there were as many on the one side of the gate of the court as on the other side, with three pillars and three feet, 16. And all the cloaks of the court were of twined white silk. 17. And the feet of the pillars of brass, and their knobs and their rims of silver; so that their heads were overlaid with silver: but their rims were silver upon all the pillars of the court. 18. And he made the cloth in the gate of the court embroidered, of yellow silk, and scarlet, and rose, and twined white silk, twenty cubits long, and five cubits high, according to the measure of the cloaks of the court; 19. And four pillars, and four feet of brass, and their knobs of silver, and their heads overlaid, and their rims of silver. 20. And all the nails of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, shall be of brass: 21. Now this is the summa of the tabernacle of the testimony, which is told, as Moses said, for the service of the Levites under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest, 22. Which Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made, according to all that the LORD commanded Moses; 23. And with him Ahaliab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a master in cutting, and in working, and in embroidering, with yellow silk, scarlet, and scarlet, and white silk. 24. All the gold that is wrought in all this work of the sanctuary, which was given to be wrought, is twenty and nine talents, seven hundred and thirty sekels after the sekel of the sanctuary. 25. And the silver that came out of the congregation was an hundred talents, a thousand seven hundred and seventy and five shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary. 26. As many a head as were half a shekel, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, of all that were numbered from twenty years old and upward, six hundred thousand three thousand five hundred and fifty. 27. And out of the hundred talents of silver they cast the feet of the sanctuary, and the feet of the vail, an hundred feet out of an hundred talents, a talent for each foot. 28. And of the thousand seven hundred and seventy and five sevens were made the thorns of the pillars, and overlaid their heads, and their ripeness. 29. And the sheaf of brass was seventy talents, two thousand and four hundred shekels. 30. Of these were made the feet of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the brasen altar, and the brasen grate thereof, and all the vessels of the altar, 31. And the feet of the court round about, and the feet of the gate of the court, and all the nails of the tabernacle, and all the nails of the court round about. (Exodus) Chapter 39 Priestly garb. 1. And of the yellow silk, and of the scarlet, and of the scarlet, they made Aaron garments to minister in the sanctuary, as the LORD commanded Moses. 2. And he made the ephod of gold, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk. 3. And he beat the gold, and cut it into thread, that it might be fashioned among the yellow silk, and the scarlet, and the scarlet, and the white silk, 4. That they should be joined together in both armpits, and bound together in both sides. 5. And his girdle was of the same art and work of gold, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk, as the LORD commanded Moses. 6. And they made two onyx stones set round about with gold, dug by the stonecutters, with the names of the children of Israel, 7. And he fastened them upon the shoulders of the ephod, that they might be stones for a memorial to the children of Israel, as the LORD commanded Moses. 8. And they made the shield according to the art and work of the ephod of gold, and of yellow silk, and of scarlet, and of scarlet, and of twined white silk, 9. That it was foursquare, and twofold, the length of a hand, and the breadth thereof. 10. And they filled it with four courses of stones. The first tier was a sardius, topaz and emerald; 11. the other a ruby, sapphire, and demond; 12. the third a lyncurer, agate and amethyst; 13. The fourth, turquoise, onyx, and jasper, set about with gold in all the ranks. 14. And the stones were cut according to the twelve names of the children of Israel, by the stonecutters, every man by his name, according to the twelve tribes. 15. And they made on the shield chains with two ends of fine gold. 16. And two gold clasps, and two gold rings: and they put the two rings upon the two corners of the shield. 17. And they put the two chains of gold in the two rings upon the corners of the shield. 18. And they put the two ends of the chains upon the two clasps, and fastened them upon the corners of the ephod one against another. 19. And they made two other rings of gold, and put them upon the other two corners of the shield in the place where it was: and the shield was clasped upon the ephod. 20. And they made two other rings of gold, and put them over against each other in the two corners of the lower part of the ephod, where the ephod is joined together at the bottom, 21. That the shield with the rings thereof should be bound unto the rings of the ephod with a yellow cord, that it should cleave unto the ephod, and not be loosed from the ephod, as the LORD commanded Moses. 22. And he made the robe of silk for his ephod, wrought wholly of yellow silk, 23. And the top of his hole in the midst thereof, and a border folded round about the hole, that it should not break. 24. And they made on his hem pomegranates of yellow silk, and scarlet, and scarlet, and twined white silk. 25. And they made bells of fine gold, and put them among the pomegranates round about, in the border of the silk skirt, 26. A pomegranate and a cuff round about and round about the hem, to minister therein, as the LORD commanded Moses. 27. And they made also the skirts of white silk for Aaron and for his sons, 28. And the hat of white silk, and the fine bonnets of white silk, and the low garments of twined white linen. 29. And the embroidered girdle of twined white silk, and yellow silk, scarlet, and scarlet, as the LORD commanded Moses. 30. They made also the headpiece, which is the holy crown, of fine gold, and digged writing therein: The holiness of the LORD. 31. And they tied a yellow cord upon it, to fasten it to the hat from above, as the LORD commanded Moses. 32. So all the work of the tabernacle of the congregation was finished. And the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, 33. And they brought the tabernacle unto Moses, the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof, the cloak, and the boards, and the bars, and the pillars, and the feet; 34. The covering of reddish ram skins, the covering of badger skins, and the curtain; 35. The ark of the testimony with its bars; the mercy seat; 36. The table, and all the vessels thereof, and the shewbread; 37. The beautiful candlestick prepared with the lamps, and all the vessels thereof, and oil for the candlesticks; 38. The golden altar, and the ointment, and good incense, and the cloth of the door of the tabernacle; 39. And the brasen altar, and the brasen lattice thereof, and the staves thereof, and all the vessels thereof, and the handstand thereof, and the foot thereof; 40. The cloaks of the court, with the pillars thereof, and the feet thereof; the cloth of the gate of the court, with the cords thereof, and the nails thereof, and all the vessels thereof, for the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; 40. The garments of Aaron the priest to minister in the sanctuary, and the garments of his sons to minister in the priest's office. 42. All things, as the LORD commanded Moses, did the children of Israel unto all this service. 43. And Moses looked on all this work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD commanded. And he blessed them. (Exodus) Chapter 40 Tabernacle erected and dedicated. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Thou shalt set up the tabernacle of the congregation in the first day of the first month. 3. And thou shalt set the ark of the testimony therein, and hang the vail before the ark. 4. And thou shalt offer the table, and prepare it, and set the candlestick, and put the lamps thereon. 5. And thou shalt set the golden altar of incense before the ark of the testimony, and hang up the cloth in the door of the tabernacle. 6. And thou shalt set the altar of burnt offering without at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 7. And the handstand between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and put water therein; 8. and set the court round about, and hang up the cloth in the door of the court. 9. And thou shalt take the ointment, and anoint the tabernacle, and all that is therein, and shalt consecrate it with all the vessels thereof, that it may be holy. 10. And thou shalt anoint the altar of burnt offering with all the vessels thereof, and consecrate it to be most holy. 11. Thou shalt also anoint and consecrate the palm of his hand, and his foot. 12. And thou shalt bring Aaron and his sons unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water; 13. And put on Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and consecrate him, that he may be my priest; 14. And bring his sons also, and put on them the narrow skirts; 15. And anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they should be my priests. And the anointing shall be unto them for an everlasting priesthood unto their seed. 16. And Moses did according to all that the LORD commanded him. 17. So the tabernacle was set up in the second year, on the first day of the first moon. 18. And when Moses had set them up, he set the feet, and the boards, and the bars, and set up the pillars. 19. And he spread the tabernacle for a dwelling, and put the covering of the tabernacle upon it, as the LORD commanded him. 20. And he took the testimony, and put it in the ark, and put the staves upon the ark, and put the mercy seat upon the top of the ark. 21. And he brought the ark into the tabernacle, and hanged the vail before the ark of the testimony, as the LORD commanded him. 22. And he set the table in the tabernacle of the congregation, in the corner of the tabernacle northward, without the vail. 23. And he prepared bread thereon before the LORD, as the LORD commanded him. 24. And he set the candlestick over against the table in the corner of the tabernacle toward the south. 25. And he put lamps thereon before the LORD, as the LORD commanded him. 26. And he set the golden altar within, before the vail. 27. And he burned incense thereon with good incense, as the LORD commanded him. 28. And he hanged the cloth in the door of the tabernacle. 29. And he set the altar of burnt offering before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and offered thereon burnt offerings and meat offerings, as the LORD commanded him. 30. And he set the handstand between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and put water therein to wash. 31. And Moses, and Aaron, and his sons, washed their hands and their feet thereof. 32. For they must wash when they enter into the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar, as the LORD commanded him. 33. And he set up the court round about the tabernacle, and round about the altar, and put up the curtain in the gate of the court. So Moses finished all the work. 34. Then a cloud covered the tabernacle of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. 35. And Moses could not enter into the tabernacle of the congregation, because the cloud abode upon it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. 36. And when the cloud was lifted up from off the tabernacle, the children of Israel went as often as they journeyed. 37. And if the cloud be not lifted up, they went not away, until the day that it was lifted up. 38. For the cloud of the LORD was upon the tabernacle by day, and was fiery by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, while they journeyed. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The third book of Moses (Leviticus) ^ Chapter 1 Law of Burnt Offerings. 1. And the LORD called Moses, and spake unto him of the tabernacle of the congregation, and said: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: Whosoever of you will offer an offering unto the LORD, let him do it of the cattle, of the herds, and of the flocks. 3. And if he offer a burnt offering of oxen, then he shall offer a male without change at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, that it may be acceptable unto the LORD from him, 4. And lay his hand upon the head of the burnt offering, and it shall be acceptable unto him, and make an atonement for him. 5. And he shall kill the young ox before the LORD: and the sons of Aaron the priests shall bring the blood, and sprinkle it round about upon the altar that is before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 6. And the skin of the burnt offering shall be flayed, and it shall be cut in pieces. 7. And the sons of Aaron the priest shall make a fire upon the altar, and put wood upon it; 8. And they shall put the pieces, even the head, and the fat, upon the wood that is upon thy fire upon the altar. 9. And the inwards and the thighs shall be washed in water, and the priest shall burn them upon the altar for a burnt offering. This is a fire for a sweet savour unto the LORD. 10. But if he offer a burnt offering of sheep or goats, he shall offer a male without change. 11. And he shall slay it at the side of the altar northward before the LORD. And the priests, Aaron's sons, shall sprinkle his blood upon the altar round about. 12. And it shall be cut in pieces. And the priest shall lay the head and the fat upon the wood and fire that is upon the altar. 13. And the inwards and the thighs shall be washed in water. And the priest shall offer them all, and burn them upon the altar for a burnt offering. This is a fire for a sweet savour unto the LORD. 14. And if he offer a burnt offering of birds unto the LORD, let him offer it of turtledoves, or of young pigeons. 15. And the priest shall bring it unto the altar, and pinch off his head, that it may be burned upon the altar, and bleed his blood upon the wall of the altar. 16. And his crop with his feathers shall be cast beside the altar toward the east upon the ash heap. 17. And he shall cleave his wings, but not break them. And so shall the priest burn it upon the altar, upon the wood that is upon the fire, for a burnt offering. This is a fire for a sweet savour unto the LORD. (Leviticus) Chapter 2 Law of the grain offering 1. If a soul will offer a meat offering unto the LORD, it shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil thereon, and put incense thereon. 2. And they shall bring them unto the priests, Aaron's sons. And the priest shall take an handful of the fine flour, and of the oil, and all the incense, and burn them for a memorial upon the altar. This is a fire for a sweet aroma to the LORD. 3. And the rest of the meat offering shall be Aaron's and his sons'. This shall be the most holy of the fires of the LORD. 4. And if he will not make a meat offering of the things baken in the oven, then he shall take cakes of fine flour unleavened with oil, and unleavened cakes spread with oil. 5. And if thy meat offering be any of the baked things that are in the pan, it shall be of unleavened breadcrumbs mingled with oil. 6. And thou shalt cut it in pieces, and pour oil upon it, and it shall be a meat offering. 7. And if thy meat offering be somewhat roasted upon the grate, then thou shalt make it of fine flour with oil. 8. And thou shalt bring the meat offering, which thou shalt make of such things unto the LORD, unto the priest, and he shall bring it unto the altar. 9. And lift up the meat offering thereof for a memorial, and burn it upon the altar. This is a fire for a sweet savour unto the LORD. 10. And the rest shall be Aaron's, and his sons'. This shall be the most holy of the fires of the LORD. 11. All the meat offerings which ye shall offer unto the LORD shall ye make without leaven: for no leaven, nor honey, shall be kindled under it unto the LORD for a fire. 12. But for the firstfruits ye shall bring them unto the LORD: but upon no altar shall they be for a sweet savour. 13. All thy meat offerings shalt thou salt, and thy meat offering shall never be without salt of the covenant of thy God: for in all thine offering thou shalt offer salt. 14. And if thou wilt offer a meat offering unto the LORD of the firstfruits, thou shalt pound the sangs, which are dried in the fire, and offer the meat offering of thy firstfruits; 15. And thou shalt put oil thereon, and put frankincense thereon, and it shall be a meat offering. 16. And the priest shall burn of the crushed meat, and of the oil, with all the incense, for a memorial. This is a fire unto the LORD. (Leviticus) Chapter 3 Law of Thanksgiving Sacrifices. 1. And if his oblation be a peace offering of oxen, or of cattle, he shall offer it before the LORD without change. 2. And he shall lay his hand upon the head thereof, and slay it at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. And the priests, Aaron's sons, shall sprinkle the blood round about upon the altar. 3. And he shall offer of the peace offerings unto the LORD all the fat of the entrails. 4. And the kidneys, with the fat that is on them, by the loins; and the caul about the liver, by the kidneys torn off. 5. And Aaron's sons shall burn it upon the altar for a burnt offering, upon the wood that is upon the fire. This is a fire for a sweet savour unto the LORD. 6. But if he offer a peace offering of small cattle unto the LORD, whether it be a lamb or a sheep, it shall be without change. 7. If it be a lamb, he shall bring it before the LORD. 8. And he shall lay his hand upon the head thereof, and slay it before the tabernacle of the congregation. And the sons of Aaron shall sprinkle his blood upon the altar round about. 9. And he shall offer of the peace offerings unto the LORD for a burnt offering, the fat thereof, the whole of the tail taken off the back, and all the fat of the inwards, 10. The two kidneys, with the fat that is upon them, by the loins; and the caul about the liver, by the kidneys torn off. 11. And the priest shall burn it upon the altar for meat of fire unto the LORD. 12. But if his offering be a goat, and he bring it before the LORD, 13. And he shall lay his hand upon their heads, and slay them before the tabernacle of the congregation. And the sons of Aaron shall sprinkle the blood upon the altar round about. 14. And he shall offer of it an offering unto the LORD, the fat of the entrails, 15. the kidneys with the fat on them, at the loins, and the caul over the liver, torn off at the kidneys. 16. And the priest shall burn it upon the altar for meat of the fire, for a sweet savour. All the fat is the LORD's. 17. This shall be a statute for ever unto your seed in all your dwellings, that ye eat neither fat nor blood. (Leviticus) Chapter 4 Law of sin offerings. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a soul sin by mistake against any commandment of the LORD, which he ought not to do, 3. For if a priest that is anointed sin, and offend the people, he shall bring a young bullock without change for a sin offering unto the LORD for his sin which he hath sinned. 4. And he shall bring the bullock unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the LORD, and lay his hand upon the head thereof, and slay it before the LORD. 5. And the priest that is anointed shall take the blood of the bullock, and bring it into the tabernacle of the congregation. 6. And he shall dip his finger in the blood, and sprinkle it seven times before the LORD, before the veil in the holy place. 7. And he shall put the blood thereof upon the horns of the altar of incense that is before the LORD in the tabernacle of the congregation, and shall pour all the blood upon the bottom of the altar of burnt offering that is before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 8. And all the fat of the sin offering shall he lift up, even the fat of the inwards, 9. the two kidneys, with the fat that is on them, at the loins, and the caul above the liver, torn off at the kidneys, 10. As he lifteth it up from the bullock in the sacrifice of peace offerings, and burneth it upon the altar of burnt offering. 11. And the hide of the bullock with all the flesh, and the head, and the legs, and the bowels, and the dung, 12. And he shall carry them all out of the camp unto a clean place, where they shall cast the ashes, and burn them upon the wood with fire. 13. If there were a whole congregation in Israel, and the deed were hid from their eyes, that they had done any thing contrary to the commandment of the LORD, which they ought not to do, and so were in debt, 14. And afterward they shall remember their sin which they have sinned: and they shall offer a young bullock for a sin offering, and set it at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 15. And the elders of the congregation shall lay their hands upon his head before the LORD, and slay the bullock before the LORD. 16. And the priest that is anointed shall bring the blood of the bullock into the tabernacle of the congregation. 17. And he shall dip his finger therein, and sprinkle it seven times before the LORD, before the veil. 18. And he shall put the blood upon the horns of the altar that is before the LORD in the tabernacle of the congregation, and shall pour out all the rest of the blood at the bottom of the altar of burnt offering that is before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 19. And he shall take up all his fat, and burn it upon the altar. 20. And he shall do unto the bullock as he did unto the bullock of the sin offering. And if the priest make an atonement for them, it shall be forgiven them. 21. And he shall bring the bullock out of the camp, and burn it as he burned the first bullock. This shall be the sin offering of the congregation. 22. But if a prince sin, and do any thing against the commandment of the LORD his God, which he ought not to do, and sin, he is guilty, 23. And if he remember his sin which he hath committed, he shall offer for a sacrifice a kid of the goats without change; 24. And he shall lay his hand upon the head of the goat, and slay it in the place where they slay the burnt offerings before the LORD. This is a sin offering. 25. Then the priest shall take the blood of the sin offering with his finger, and put it upon the horns of the altar of burnt offering, and pour out the other blood at the bottom of the altar of burnt offering. 26. And all the fat thereof shall he burn upon the altar, as the fat of the peace offerings. And if the priest make an atonement for his sin, it shall be forgiven him. 27. And if a soul of the common people sin, and do any thing contrary to the commandments of the LORD, which he ought not to do, and so be in debt, 28. And if she remember her sin which she hath committed, she shall bring a kid of the goats for an offering without change for the sin which she hath committed; 29. And she shall lay her hand upon the head of the sin offering, and slay it in the place of the burnt offering. 30. And the priest shall take the blood with his finger, and put it upon the horns of the altar of burnt offering, and shall pour out all the blood at the bottom of the altar. 31. And all the fat thereof shall he take away, as he took away the fat of the peace offerings, and burn it upon the altar for a sweet savour unto the LORD. And if the priest make an atonement for her, it shall be forgiven her. 32. But if he bring a sheep for a sin offering, let him bring that which is one without change, 33. And he shall lay his hand upon the head of the sin offering, and slay it for a sin offering in the place where the burnt offering is slain. 34. And the priest shall take of the blood with his finger, and put it upon the horns of the altar of burnt offering, and shall pour out all the blood at the bottom of the altar. 35. And he shall pluck off all his fat, as he plucked off the fat of the sheep of the sacrifice of peace offerings, and shall burn it upon the altar for a fire unto the LORD. And if the priest make an atonement for his sin which he hath committed, it shall be forgiven him. (Leviticus) Chapter 5 Law front guilt offering. 1. If a soul sin, that he hear a curse, and he be a witness, or have seen, or known, and not confessed, he is guilty of iniquity. 2. Or if a soul touch any unclean thing, whether it be the carcase of any unclean beast, or cattle, or vermin, and know it not, he is unclean, and is in debt. 3. Or if he touch an unclean person, in what uncleanness a man may become unclean, and know it not, and know it, he is guilty. 4. Or if a soul swear that it shall escape out of his mouth to do harm or to do good (as a man's oath may escape him before he thinketh it), and he knoweth it, he hath sinned against one. 5. And it shall come to pass, when he is guilty of one thing, that he shall know that he hath sinned in it, 6. Then shall he bring unto the LORD of the flock one ewe lamb, or one kid of the goats, for a sin offering, for the trespass of his sin which he hath trespassed against: and the priest shall make an atonement for his sin. 7. But if he be not able to bring one sheep, let him bring unto the LORD for his iniquity which he hath done two turtledoves, or two young pigeons; the first for a sin offering, and the second for a burnt offering. 8. And bring them unto the priest. And he shall make the first a sin offering, and pinch off her head behind her neck, and not break it off. 9. And sprinkle the blood of the sin offering upon the side of the altar, and let the rest of the blood be bled out at the bottom of the altar. This is the sin offering. 10. And the other shall he offer for a burnt offering according to his own law. And if the priest make an atonement for his sin which he hath committed, it shall be forgiven him. 11. And if he be not able to offer two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, let him offer for his sin a tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering. But he shall not put oil thereon, neither shall he put incense thereon: for it is a sin offering. 12. And he shall bring it unto the priest. And the priest shall take an handful thereof for a memorial, and burn it upon the altar for a fire unto the LORD. This is a sin offering. 13. And the priest shall make an atonement for his sin which he hath committed, and it shall be forgiven him. And it shall be to the priest as a meat offering. 14. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 15. If a soul trespass against that which is consecrated unto the LORD, and trespass against that which is consecrated unto the LORD, he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD, a ram without issue of the flock, of the value of two shekels of silver, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering. 16. And whatsoever he hath sinned against the consecrated, he shall restore, and give the fifth part thereof; and he shall give it unto the priest, and he shall make an atonement for him with the ram of the trespass offering, and it shall be forgiven him. 17. If a soul sin, and do contrary to any commandment of the LORD, which he ought not to do, and have not known it, he is guilty of iniquity. 18. And he shall bring a ram of the flock without change, worthy of a trespass offering, unto the priest, and he shall make an atonement for him for his ignorance which he hath done, and knew it not: and it shall be forgiven him. 19. This is the trespass offering, which he hath offered unto the LORD. Ch. 6, v. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. If a soul sin, and trespass against the LORD, and deny unto his neighbour that which he hath commanded him, or that which is done unto him faithfully, or that which he hath taken by violence, or brought unto him unjustly, 3. Or that is lost, and denieth it with a false oath, as it is one wherein a man sinneth against his neighbour: 4. If therefore he sin, and be in debt, he shall restore that which he hath taken by violence, or that which he hath taken unjustly, or that which he hath been commanded, or that which he hath found, 5. Or whereof he hath sworn falsely; he shall restore all that wholly, and give the fifth part thereof unto him that hath made it, in the day that he offereth his trespass offering. 6. But for his trespass he shall bring unto the LORD unto the priest one ram of the flock without change, worthy of a trespass offering. 7. And the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD: and it shall be forgiven him according to all that he hath done, wherein he is in debt. (Leviticus) Chapter 6 Of the burnt offering, the meat offering, and the sin offering. 8. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 9. Give Aaron and his sons, and say, This is the law of the burnt offering. The burnt offering shall burn upon the altar all night until the morning. And the fire of the altar alone shall burn upon it. 10. And the priest shall put on his linen garment, and the linen vail upon his body; and he shall take up the ashes which the fire of the burnt offering hath made upon the altar, and shall cast them beside the altar. 11. And he shall put off his garments afterward, and put on other garments, and carry out the ashes out of the camp unto a clean place. 12. The fire upon the altar shall burn, and never go out: and the priest shall burn wood upon it every morning, and prepare the burnt offering upon it, and burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings. 13. The fire shall burn upon the altar for ever, and shall never be quenched. 14. And this is the law of the meat offering, which Aaron's sons shall offer upon the altar before the LORD. 15. And one shall lift up his handful of fine flour of the meat offering, and of the oil, and all the frankincense that is upon the meat offering, and burn it upon the altar for a sweet savour, a memorial unto the LORD. 16. And the remainder shall Aaron and his sons eat; and they shall eat it unleavened in the holy place, in the court of the tabernacle of the congregation. 17. They shall not bake it with leaven: for it is their portion, which I have given them of my sacrifice. It shall be unto them the most holy, even as the sin offering, and as the trespass offering. 18. That which is male among the sons of Aaron shall eat it. This shall be a perpetual statute unto your seed in the sacrifices of the LORD: no man shall touch them, except he be consecrated. 19. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 20. This shall be the offering of Aaron and of his sons, which they shall offer unto the LORD in the day of his anointing; the tenth part of the ephah of fine flour of the daily meat offering, half of the morning, and half of the evening. 21. In a pan with oil shalt thou make it, and offer it roasted; and baked in pieces shalt thou offer it for a sweet savour unto the LORD. 22. And the priest that is anointed among his sons in his stead shall do so. This is a perpetual statute unto the LORD: it shall be burned wholly. 23. For all the meat offering of a priest shall be wholly burnt, and not eaten. 24. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 25. Saw Aaron and his sons, and said, This is the law of the sin offering: In the place where thou slakest the burnt offering thou shalt also slay the sin offering before the LORD: this is the most holy place. 26. And the priest that offereth the sin offering shall eat it in the holy place, in the court of the tabernacle of the congregation. 27. Let no man touch his flesh, except he be sanctified. And whosoever shall sprinkle a garment of his blood shall wash the sprinkled spot in the holy place. 28. And the pot wherein it is boiled shall be broken. And if it be an iron pot, then it shall be scoured, and it shall be rinsed in water. 29. Those that are male among the priests shall eat thereof: for it is the most holy. 30. But all the sin offering, whose blood is brought into the tabernacle of the congregation to make an atonement in the holy place, shall not be eaten, but shall be burnt with fire. (Leviticus) Chapter 7 Of the guilt offering and the thanksgiving offering. 1. And this is the law of the trespass offering: and this is the most holy. 2. In the place where the burnt offering is killed shall the trespass offering be killed, and the blood thereof shall be sprinkled upon the altar. 3. And all the fat thereof shall be offered, the tail, and the fat of the bowels, 4. the two kidneys, with the fat attached, at the loins, and the caul above the liver, torn off at the kidneys. 5. And the priest shall burn it upon the altar for a fire unto the LORD. This is a trespass offering. 6. And the male of the priests shall eat thereof in the holy place: for it is the most holy. 7. As the sin offering, so shall the trespass offering be: both of them shall be one law, and shall be the priest's atonement. 8. Whosoever priest offereth any burnt offering shall have the skin of the burnt offering which he hath offered. 9. And every meat offering that is baken in the oven, or on the grate, or in the pan, shall be the priest's that offereth it. 10. And every meat offering that is mingled with oil, or that is dry, shall be of all Aaron's sons, one as well as another. 11. And this is the law of the sacrifice of peace offerings, which is offered unto the LORD. 12. If they will offer a sacrifice of praise, they shall offer unleavened cakes mingled with oil, and unleavened cakes spread with oil, and toasted cakes mingled with oil. 13. And they shall offer this sacrifice upon a cake of leavened bread for the sacrifice of his peace offerings. 14. And he shall offer one of them all for an heave offering unto the LORD: and he shall be the priest that sprinkleeth the blood of the sacrifice of peace offerings. 15. And the flesh of the sacrifice of praise in his peace offerings shall be eaten the same day that it is offered, and nothing shall be left over until the morning. 16. And if it be a vow, or a freewill offering, it shall be eaten the same day that it is offered: but if any remain unto the next day, it shall be eaten. 17. But that which remaineth of the flesh of the sacrifice on the third day shall be burnt with fire. 18. And if any man eat of the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings the third day, he that offered it shall not be accepted, neither shall it be imputed unto him, but it shall be an abomination: and whosoever eateth thereof shall be guilty of iniquity. 19. And the flesh that toucheth any unclean thing shall not be eaten, but shall be burned with fire. He that is clean in body shall eat of the flesh. 20. And whatsoever soul shall eat of the flesh of the sacrifice of peace offerings, which pertain unto the LORD, that uncleanness shall be upon him, and he shall be cut off from among his people. 21. And if any soul touch any unclean thing, whether it be unclean man, or beast, or any unclean thing that is abominable, and eat of the flesh of the sacrifice of peace offerings, which pertain unto the LORD, it shall be cut off from among its people. 22. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 23. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Ye shall eat no fat of oxen, or of lambs, or of goats. 24. But the fat of the carcase, and that which is torn of the beast, shall be for all your use, but ye shall not eat it. 25. For whosoever eateth the fat of the cattle that are offered unto the LORD, the same soul shall be cut off from among his people. 26. Neither shall ye eat blood, either of cattle, or of fowls, where ye dwell. 27. If any soul eat any blood, it shall be cut off from among its people. 28. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 29. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Whosoever shall offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, let him bring also that which pertaineth unto the LORD for a sacrifice of peace offerings. 30. And he shall bring it with his hand for an offering unto the LORD: he shall bring the fat of the breast with the breast, and it shall be a wave before the LORD. 31. And the priest shall burn the fat upon the altar: and the breast shall be Aaron's and his sons'. 32. And the right shoulder shall they give unto the priest for a heave offering of their peace offerings. 33. And whichever of Aaron's sons shall offer the blood of the peace offerings, and the fat thereof, the right shoulder shall be his portion. 34. For the wave breast and the heave shoulder have I taken of the children of Israel out of their peace offerings, and have given them unto Aaron the priest and to his sons for a perpetual statute. 35. This is the anointing of Aaron and his sons of the sacrifices of the LORD, in the day that they were delivered to be priests unto the LORD, 36. For the LORD commanded in the day that he anointed them, that it should be given him of the children of Israel for an everlasting statute unto all their seed. 37. And this is the law of the burnt offering, and of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering, and of the meat offering, and of the peace offerings. 38. Which the LORD commanded Moses in mount Sinai, in the day that he commanded him the children of Israel to offer their sacrifices unto the LORD in the wilderness of Sinai. (Leviticus) Chapter 8 Inauguration of the priests. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Take Aaron and his sons with him, and their garments, and the anointing oil, and a bullock for a sin offering, and two rams, and a basket of unleavened bread. 3. And gather all the congregation together unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 4. And Moses did as the LORD commanded him, and gathered the congregation together unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 5. And said unto them: This is that the LORD hath commanded to be done. 6. And he took Aaron and his sons, and washed them with water. 7. And he put on him the linen skirt, and girded him with the girdle, and put on him the silk skirt, and put on him the ephod, and girded him over the ephod. 8. And he put the small shield upon him, and in the small shield light and judgment. 9. And he put his hat upon his head, and put upon the top of his head the golden leaf of the crown of holiness, as the LORD commanded Moses. 10. And Moses took the anointing oil, and anointed the tabernacle, and all that was therein, and consecrated it. 11. And he sprinkled therewith seven times upon the altar, and anointed the altar with all his vessels, and the palm with his foot, to consecrate it. 12. And he poured the anointing oil upon Aaron's head, and anointed him to consecrate him. 13. And he brought Aaron's sons, and put on them coats of linen, and girded them with the girdle, and put on them bonnets, as the LORD commanded him. 14. And he brought a bullock for a sin offering. And Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon his head. 15. And they slew it. And Moses took the blood, and put it upon the horns of the altar round about with his finger, and defiled the altar, and poured the blood upon the base of the altar, and sanctified it, to make an atonement for it. 16. And he took all the fat that was upon the inwards, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys with the fat upon them, and burnt them upon the altar. 17. But the bullock with his hide, and his flesh, and his dung, he burnt with fire without the camp, as the LORD commanded him. 18. And he brought a ram for a burnt offering. And Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon his head. 19. And they slew him. And Moses sprinkled the blood upon the altar round about, 20. And he cut the ram in pieces, and set on fire the head, and the pieces, and the stump. 21. And he washed the inwards and the legs with water, and burnt the whole ram upon the altar. This was a burnt offering for a sweet savour, a fire unto the LORD, as the LORD commanded him. 22. And he brought the other ram of the passover. And Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon his head. 23. And they slaughtered him. And Moses took his blood, and put it upon the cartilage of Aaron's right ear, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot. 24. And he brought Aaron's sons, and put the blood upon the cartilage of their right ear, and upon the thumb of their right hand, and upon the great toe of their right foot, and sprinkled the blood upon the altar round about. 25. And he took the fat, and the tail, and all the fat that was upon the bowels, and the caul above the liver, and the two kidneys with the fat upon them, and the right shoulder. 26. And he took of the basket of unleavened bread before the LORD one cake of unleavened bread, and one cake of oiled bread, and one patty; and laid it upon the fat, and upon the right shoulder. 27. And he gave all these things into the hands of Aaron and his sons, and waved them for a wave before the LORD. 28. And they took it all again from their hands, and burnt it upon the altar, upon the burnt offering: for it is a sacrifice made by fire for a sweet savour, a fire unto the LORD. 29. And Moses took the breast, and wove a wave before the LORD of the ram of the sacrifice of the filling. And it became a portion unto Moses, as the LORD commanded him. 30. And Moses took the anointing oil and the blood upon the altar, and sprinkled it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon their garments; and consecrated Aaron, and his garments, and his sons, and their garments with him. 31. And he said unto Aaron and to his sons: Boil the flesh at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and eat it there, and the bread that is in the basket of the passover, as I am commanded, saying, Aaron and his sons shall eat it. 32. And that which remaineth of the flesh and of the bread ye shall burn with fire. 33. And ye shall not go out from the door of the tabernacle of the congregation seven days, until the days of your filling be fulfilled: for seven days are your hands filled, 34. As it was done this day. The LORD hath commanded it to be done, that ye might be reconciled. 35. And ye shall tarry at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation day and night seven days; and ye shall wait upon the watch of the LORD, that ye die not: for so I am commanded. 36. And Aaron and his sons did according to all that the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses. (Leviticus) Chapter 9 Aaron's first sacrifice is consumed by fire. 1. And it came to pass on the eighth day, that Moses called unto Aaron, and to his sons, and to the elders of Israel. 2. And he said unto Aaron, Take thee a young calf for a sin offering, and a ram for a burnt offering, both without change, and bring them before the LORD. 3. And speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Take a kid of the goats for a sin offering, and a calf and a sheep, both of them of the first year, and without change, for a burnt offering; 4. And an ox and a ram for a peace offering, to offer before the LORD; and a meat offering mingled with oil. For this day shall the LORD appear unto you. 5. And they took that which Moses commanded at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. And all the congregation came near, and stood before the LORD. 6. And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD hath commanded that ye should do, and the glory of the LORD shall appear unto you. 7. And Moses said unto Aaron, Come near unto the altar, and offer thy sin offering, and thy burnt offering, and make an atonement for thyself, and for the people: and afterward make an offering of the people, and make an atonement for them also, as the LORD commanded. 8. And Aaron came unto the altar, and slew the calf for his sin offering. 9. And his sons brought the blood unto him, and he dipped his finger in the blood, and put it upon the horns of the altar, and poured out the blood at the bottom of the altar. 10. But the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul of the liver of the sin offering, he burnt upon the altar, as the LORD commanded Moses. 11. And the flesh and the skin burnt he with fire without the camp. 12. And afterward he slew the burnt offering; and Aaron's sons brought the blood unto him, and he sprinkled it round about upon the altar. 13. And they brought the burnt offering unto him in pieces, and the head; and he burnt it upon the altar. 14. And he washed the inwards and the legs, and burnt them upon the burnt offering that was upon the altar. 15. And afterward he brought the sacrifice of the people, and took the goat, the sin offering of the people, and slew it, and made it a sin offering like unto the first. 16. And he brought the burnt offering, and did him his due. 17. And he brought the meat offering, and took his handful, and burnt it upon the altar, beside the burnt offering of the morning. 18. And afterward he slew the bullock and the ram for the peace offerings of the people. And his sons brought him the blood; and he sprinkled it round about upon the altar. 19. And the fat of the bullock, and the fat of the ram, and the tail, and the fat of the inwards, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver, 20. And they put all this fat upon the breast: and he burnt the fat upon the altar. 21. But the breast and the right shoulder Aaron waved for a wave before the LORD, as the LORD commanded Moses. 22. And Aaron lifted up his hand unto the people, and blessed them: and when he had made the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and the peace offerings, he came down. 23. And Moses and Aaron went into the tabernacle of the congregation, and came out again, and blessed the people. And the glory of the LORD shone unto all the people. 24. For the fire came out from the LORD, and consumed the burnt offering and the fat upon the altar. And when all the people saw it, they rejoiced, and fell on their faces. (Leviticus) Chapter 10 Nadab and Abihu killed by fire. 1. And the sons of Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, took every man his bowl, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and brought the strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. 2. And there went out a fire from the LORD, and consumed them, and they died before the LORD. 3. And Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD hath said: I will be sanctified in them that come nigh unto me, and I will be glorified in the sight of all the people. And Aaron held his peace. 4. And Moses called Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel, Aaron's cousins, and said unto them: Come near, and carry your brethren out of the sanctuary before the camp. 5. And they came and carried them out with their linen skirts before the camp, as Moses had said. 6. And Moses said unto Aaron and to his sons Eleazar and Ithamar, Ye shall not bow your heads, neither rend your garments, lest ye die, and wrath come upon all the congregation. Let your brethren of all the house of Israel weep for this burning which the LORD hath done. 7. But go not out from the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, that ye die. For the anointing oil of the LORD is upon you. And they did as Moses said. 8. And the LORD spake unto Aaron, saying: 9. Thou, and thy sons with thee, shalt drink wine, and strong drink, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, that ye die not. This shall be a perpetual statute unto all your seed, 10. That ye may discern between holy and unholy, between unclean and clean, 11. And that ye teach the children of Israel all the statutes which the LORD spake unto you by Moses. 12. And Moses spake unto Aaron, and unto the remnant of his sons, Eleazar and Ithamar, saying, Take ye that remaineth of the meat offering of the LORD'S sacrifices, and eat it unleavened at the altar: for it is the most holy. 13. And ye shall eat it in the holy place: for it is thy right, and thy sons' right, in the sacrifices of the LORD: for so I am commanded. 14. But the wave breast and the heave shoulder shalt thou eat, thou, and thy sons, and thy daughters with thee, in a clean place: for such a right is given thee and thy children in the sacrifices of peace offerings of the children of Israel. 15. For the shoulder of the heave, and the breast of the wave, are brought for the sacrifices of the fat, to be waved for a wave before the LORD: therefore it is thine, and thy children's, for an everlasting statute, as the LORD hath commanded. 16. And Moses sought the goat of the sin offering, and found it burnt. And he was wroth with Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons, which were left, and said: 17. Why have ye not eaten the sin offering in the holy place? for it is the most holy, and he hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation, to make reconciliation for them before the LORD. 18. Behold, his blood is not entered into the holy place. Ye shall have eaten it in the holy place, as I am commanded. 19. And Aaron said unto Moses, Behold, this day they have offered their sin offering and their burnt offering before the LORD; and it is so with me, as thou seest: and shall I eat of the sin offering this day? Shall this please the LORD? 20. And it came to pass, when Moses heard it, that he put it to him. (Leviticus) Chapter 11 Of the difference between clean and unclean animals. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, and said unto them: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, These are the beasts which ye shall eat of all the beasts of the earth. 3. Every thing that divideth the hoof, and cheweth the cud among the beasts, that shall ye eat. 4. But whatsoever cheweth the cud, and hath claws, and divideth them not, as the camel, that is unclean unto you, and ye shall not eat it. 5. Rabbits chew the cud, but they divide not the hoof: therefore they are unclean. 6. The hare also cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof: therefore is he unclean unto you. 7. And a swine divideth the hoof, but cheweth not the cud: therefore it shall be unclean unto you. 8. Of this flesh shall ye not eat, neither shall ye touch their carcase: for they are unclean unto you. 9. These things shall ye eat of them that are in the waters: every thing that hath raft feathers and scales in the waters, in the sea, and in the brooks, shall ye eat. 10. And every thing that hath not the feather of a raft, and the scale of a fish, in the sea, and in the brooks, and in all that moveth in the waters, and in all that liveth in the waters, shall be a reproach unto you, 11. That ye eat not of their flesh, and shun their carcase. 12. For every thing that hath not raft feathers and scales in the waters ye shall shun. 13. And this shall ye shun among the birds, that ye eat it not: the eagle, the hawk, the fishhawk, 14. the vulture, the harrier, and that which is of his kind, 15. and all ravens with their kind, 16. the ostrich, the night owl, the cuckoo, the sparrowhawk with its kind, 17. the little owl, the swan, the hoo-hoo, 18. the bat, the bittern, 19. the stork, the heron, the heron with his kind, the hoopoe and the swallow. 20. Every thing also that moveth among the birds, and walketh upon four feet, let it be a reproach unto you. 21. But this shall ye eat of birds, which move, and walk upon four feet, and leap not upon the earth with two legs. 22. Of these ye shall eat: Arbe with his kind, and Shelaam with his kind, and Hargol with his kind, and Hagab with her kind. 23. And every one that hath four feet among the birds shall be a reproach unto you, 24. And ye shall count them unclean. He that toucheth such carcase shall be unclean until the even. 25. And whosoever shall bear one of these carcases shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even. 26. Therefore every beast that hath hoofs, and divideth them not, neither cheweth the cud, shall be unclean unto you: whosoever toucheth it shall be unclean. 27. And every one that prayeth upon taps among the beasts that walk upon four feet shall be unclean unto you: whosoever toucheth any of their carcase shall be unclean until the even. 28. And he that beareth their carcase shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: for such are unclean unto you. 29. These also shall be unclean unto you among the beasts that creep upon the earth; the weasel, the mouse, the toad, every one with his kind; 30. the hedgehog, the newt, the lizard, the slow worm and the mole. 31. They are unclean unto you among all creatures: whosoever toucheth their carcase shall be unclean until the even. 32. And every dead carcase that falleth upon it shall be unclean, whether it be any vessel of wood, or raiment, or skin, or sackcloth: and every vessel that is made with it shall be put into the water, and shall be unclean until the even: then it shall be clean. 33. All earthen vessels, if any of these carcases fall therein, all that is therein shall be unclean; and ye shall break it. 34. All meat that is eaten, if such water be put therein, is unclean: and all drink that is drunk, in any such vessel, is unclean. 35. And every thing upon which such a carcase falleth shall be unclean, whether it be a furnace or a caldron, it shall be broken: for it is unclean, and shall be unclean unto you. 36. But the fountains, and the wells, and the ponds, are clean. But whosoever toucheth their carcase is unclean. 37. Though such a carcase fall upon seed which is sown, yet is it clean. 38. But if water be poured upon the seed, and such a carcase fall upon it afterward, it shall be unclean unto you. 39. If any beast die which ye may eat, whosoever toucheth the carcase shall be unclean until the even. 40. Whosoever eateth of such carcase shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even. And whosoever eateth such carcase shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even. 41. That which creepeth upon the earth shall be a reproach unto you, and it shall not be eaten. 42. And every thing that creepeth upon the belly, and every thing that walketh upon four feet, or upon more than four feet, among all that creep upon the earth, shall ye not eat: for it shall be a reproach unto you. 43. Make not your soul an abomination, neither defile yourselves in them, that ye should defile yourselves. 44. For I am the LORD your God. Therefore sanctify yourselves, that ye be holy: for I am holy: and defile not your souls in any creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 45. For I am the LORD that brought you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God. Therefore ye shall be holy; for I am holy. 46. This is the law of beasts, and of fowls, and of every creeping thing that creepeth in the water, and of every beast that creepeth upon the earth, 47. That ye might discern what is unclean and what is clean, and what beast to eat, and what beast not to eat. (Leviticus) Chapter 12 Order of the Kindbetterinnen. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a woman be smitten, and bring forth a kid, she shall be unclean seven days, as long as she suffereth her sickness. 3. And on the eighth day he shall circumcise the flesh of his foreskin. 4. And she shall abide in the blood of her purification thirty and three days. No holy thing shall she touch, neither shall she come into the sanctuary, until the days of her purification be ended. 5. And if she bear a damsel, then she shall be unclean two weeks, as long as she suffereth her sickness; and she shall abide sixty and six days in the blood of her cleansing. 6. And it shall come to pass, when the days of her purification are expired for the son, or for the daughter, that she shall bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the priest, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 7. He shall offer her before the LORD, and make an atonement for her; and she shall be clean from her issue of blood. This is the law for her that bringeth forth a child or a maid. 8. And if her hand be not able to take one sheep, then she shall take two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, the one for a burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for her, and she shall be clean. (Leviticus) Chapter 13 Marks of leprosy on the people and clothes. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 2. And if a man's flesh be sore in the skin of his flesh, or become scabrous, or white with pus, as if a leprosy were in the skin of his flesh, he shall be brought unto Aaron the priest, or unto one of his sons among the priests. 3. And if the priest see the mark in the skin of the flesh, and the hairs be turned white, and the appearance of the place be deeper than the other skin of his flesh, it is surely leprosy. Therefore the priest shall examine him and pronounce him unclean. 4. And if there be any pus-white in the skin of his flesh, and the appearance be not deeper than the other skin of the flesh, and the hairs be not turned white, then the priest shall shut him up seven days. 5. And on the seventh day he looked. Is it that the mark remains as he saw it before, and has not eaten further at the skin, 6. And the priest shall shut him up again seven days. And when he shall examine him the seventh time in the seventh day, and find that the plague is gone, and that it hath not spread upon the skin, then he shall pronounce him clean: for it is scab. And he shall wash his clothes, and he shall be clean. 7. But if the scab continue to eat in the skin, after it is seen of the priest, and is pronounced clean, and is seen of the priest another time; 8. And when the priest seeth that the scab hath eaten in the skin, he shall pronounce him unclean: for it is a leprosy. 9. If there be a plague of leprosy in a man, he shall be brought unto the priest. 10. When he looketh, and findeth that white is risen in the skin, and the hair is turned white, and raw flesh is in the sore, 11. It is surely an old leprosy in the skin of his flesh. Therefore the priest shall judge him unclean, and not shut him up: for he is unclean already. 12. And if the leprosy flourish in the skin, and cover the whole skin, from the head even unto the feet, all that may be before the priest's eyes; 13. And when the priest shall examine him, and find that the leprosy hath covered all his flesh, he shall pronounce him clean, because it is all turned white in him: for he is clean. 14. But if raw flesh be there in the daytime, when it is seen, it is unclean. 15. And if the priest examine the raw flesh, he shall pronounce him unclean: for he is unclean, and leprosy is surely there. 16. And if the raw flesh turn again, and be turned white, then he shall come unto the priest. 17. And if the priest examine, and find that the plague be turned white, he shall pronounce him clean: for he is clean. 18. If a gland be in the flesh of a man's skin, and heal again, 19. after that in the same place any thing shall appear white, or reddish pus-white, it shall be seen of the priest. 20. And if the priest see that the appearance be deeper than the skin, and that the hair be turned white; then he shall pronounce him unclean: for it is a plague of leprosy that is come out of the gland. 21. And if the priest see, and find that the hair is not white, and is not deeper than the other skin, and be gone, then he shall shut him up seven days. 22. If it eat any more in the skin, then he shall judge him unclean: for it is surely a plague of leprosy. 23. But if the white of the pus remain, and eat no more, it is the scar of the gland; and the priest shall pronounce him clean. 24. When a man burneth his skin by the fire, and the brand is reddish, or white, 25. And if the priest examine him, and find the hair of the brand turned white, and the appearance thereof deeper than the skin thereof; then leprosy is surely of the brand. Therefore the priest shall pronounce him unclean: for it is a plague of leprosy. 26. And if the priest see, and find that the hair of the brand is not changed into white, and is not deeper than the other skin, and be gone with it, he shall shut him up seven days. 27. And on the seventh day he shall examine him. And if it have eaten any more of the skin, then he shall pronounce him unclean: for it is a leprosy. 28. And if it be confessed in the burn, and be not eaten up in the skin, and be gone, then it is a sore of the burn. And the priest shall judge him clean: for it is a scar of the brand. 29. When a man or woman is shamed on the head or beard, 30. And if the priest examine the plague, and find that the appearance thereof is deeper than the other skin, and that the hair thereof is golden and thin, then he shall pronounce him unclean: for it is a leprous scall of the head, or of the beard. 31. And if the priest see that the scall is not deeper than the skin, and that the hair is not corrupt, he shall shut it up seven days. 32. And when he looketh on the seventh day, and findeth that the scab hath not eaten any more, neither is there any hair of gold, neither is the appearance of the scab deeper than the skin thereof, 33. And he shall cover himself, but he shall not cover the bark. And the priest shall shut him up again seven days. 34. And if he examine him on the seventh day, and find that the scab hath not spread in the skin, and that the appearance be not deeper than the other skin, then the priest shall pronounce him clean; and he shall wash his clothes, because he is clean. 35. but the grind continues to eat at the skin after it is spoken clean, 36. And if the priest examine, and find that the scab hath eaten upon the skin, he shall inquire no more whether the hair be golden: for he is unclean. 37. And if the scab stand still before the eyes, and the hair of the scab come up there, then the scab is healed, and he is clean. Therefore the priest shall pronounce him clean. 38. If a man or woman have any pus white in the skin of their flesh, 39. And the priest saw there that the white of the pus was gone out, which was a white scab in the skin, and he was clean. 40. If the hair of a man's head fall out, and he be bald, he is clean. 41. If they fall out of the front of his head, and become bald, he is clean. 42. But if there be a white or a reddish mark on his bald head, or if he be bald, then there be leprosy on his bald head, or on his bald head. 43. Therefore the priest shall examine him. If he finds a white or reddish mark on his bald head or on his bald head, he shall see it, as if it were a leprosy on the skin, 44. And he shall be a leper, and unclean: and the priest shall pronounce him unclean, because of that plague upon his head. 45. Whosoever therefore is a leper, his clothes shall be rent, and his head bare, and his lips covered with veils; and he shall be called unclean in all things: 46. And as long as the mark is upon him, he shall be unclean, dwelling alone, and his habitation shall be without the camp. 47. If a leper's garment be marked, whether it be woollen or linen, 48. in the yard or in the concord, whether it be linen or wool, or in a skin, or in anything made of skins; 49. And if the plague be pale, or reddish, in the garment, or in the skin, or in the woof, or in the woof, or in any thing made of skins, it is surely a plague of leprosy: therefore the priest shall see it. 50. And when he seeth the mark, he shall shut it up seven days. 51. And if he see on the seventh day that the plague hath eaten away at the garment, or at the woof, or at the concord, or at the skin, or at any thing that is made of skins, it is a plague of leprosy, and is unclean. 52. And he shall burn the garment, or the woof, or the concord, whether it be woollen, or linen, or any skin that hath such a plague in it: for it is a plague of leprosy: and he shall burn it with fire. 53. And the priest shall see that the plague hath not spread upon the garment, or upon the woof, or upon the concord, or upon all manner of skins, 54. And he shall command that it be washed, wherein the plague is: and he shall shut it up seven days more. 55. And if the priest shall see, after the plague is washed, that the plague is not changed in his sight, neither hath it eaten any more: it is unclean, and thou shalt burn it with fire: for it is eaten deep, and hath made it scabby. 56. And if the priest see that the plague be gone after he hath washed it, then he shall pluck it off the garment, or off the skin, or off the woof, or off the concord. 57. And if it be yet seen in the garment, or in the woof, or in the concord, or in any thing of the skin, it is a stain; and thou shalt burn it with fire, wherein is such a stain. 58. But the garment, or the woof, or the concord, or any skin that is washed, and hath the stain left upon it, let it be washed again, and it shall be clean. 59. This is the law concerning the marks of leprosy upon garments, whether they be woollen or linen, upon the woof, and upon the concord, and upon all manner of furs, to speak clean or unclean. (Leviticus) Chapter 14 Cleansing the leprosy. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. This is the law concerning the leper, when he shall be cleansed. He shall come to the priest, 3. And the priest shall come out of the camp, and see how the plague of leprosy is healed in the leper; 4. And he shall command him that is to be cleansed to take two live fowls that are clean, and cedar wood, and the wool of brass, and hyssop. 5. And he shall command that one bird be slain in an earthen vessel by running water. 6. And he shall take the living bird, and the cedar wood, and the wool of raisin, and the hyssop, and dip it in the blood of the slain bird, by the running water. 7. And sprinkle upon him that is to be cleansed from leprosy seven times; and so cleanse him, and let the living bird fly into the open field. 8. And he that is cleansed shall wash his clothes, and shave off all his hair, and bathe himself in water; and he shall be clean. After that he shall go into the camp: but he shall tarry out of his tent seven days. 9. And on the seventh day he shall shave off all the hair of his head, and of his beard, and of his eyebrows, and all his hair shall be shaven off: and he shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and he shall be clean. 10. And on the eighth day he shall take two lambs without change, and one ewe lamb of the first year without change, and three tenths of fine flour for a meat offering mingled with oil, and one log of oil. 11. And the priest shall present the same cleansed, and these things, before the LORD, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 12. And he shall take one lamb, and offer it for a trespass offering with the log oil, and shall wave it before the LORD; 13. And afterward they shall kill the lamb, when they kill the sin offering and the burnt offering, even in the holy place: for as the sin offering is, so is the trespass offering of the priest: for it is the most holy. 14. And the priest shall take of the blood of the trespass offering, and put it upon the tip of the right ear of him that is to be cleansed, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot. 15. And afterward he shall take of the oil out of the log, and pour it into his (the priest's) left hand, 16. And he shall dip his right finger in the oil that is in his left hand, and sprinkle the oil with his finger seven times before the LORD. 17. And the rest of the oil that is in his hand shall he put upon the cartilage of the right ear of him that is cleansed, and upon his right thumb, and upon the great toe of his right foot, upon the blood of the trespass offering. 18. And the rest of the oil that is in his hand shall he put upon the head of him that is cleansed, and make an atonement for him before the LORD. 19. And he shall make a sin offering, and make an atonement for him that is clean for his uncleanness; and afterward he shall kill the burnt offering. 20. And he shall offer it upon the altar with the meat offering, and make an atonement for him; and he shall be clean. 21. But if he be poor, and have not so much as this in his hand, let him take a lamb for a trespass offering, to make an atonement for him; and a tithe of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, and a log of oil. 22. And two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, which he may purchase with his hand: the one shall be a sin offering, and the other a burnt offering; 23. And on the eighth day of his cleansing bring them unto the priest at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, before the LORD. 24. And the priest shall take the lamb for a trespass offering, and the log of oil, and shall wave it all before the LORD; 25. And he shall kill the lamb of the trespass offering, and take of the blood of the same trespass offering, and put it upon the cartilage of his right ear, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot; 26. And pour the oil into his (the priest's) left hand. 27. And with his right finger shall he sprinkle the oil that is in his left hand seven times before the LORD. 28. And the rest of the blood that is in his hand shall he put upon the cartilage of his right ear, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot, upon the blood of the trespass offering. 29. And the rest of the oil that is in his hand shall he put upon the head of him that is cleansed, to make an atonement for him before the LORD, 30. and afterward out of the one turtledove, or young pigeon, as his hand hath pleased to acquire, 31. One sin offering, and the other a burnt offering with the meat offering. And the priest shall make an atonement for him that is clean before the LORD. 32. Let this be the law for the leper, who cannot acquire with his hand what belongs to his cleansing. 33. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 34. And it shall come to pass, when ye are come into the land of Canaan, which I will give you for a possession, that there shall be a plague of leprosy in the house of your possession, 35. And he that is of the house shall come and tell the priest, saying: It looketh upon me as if a plague were upon my house. 36. And the priest shall command them to make an end of the house, before the priest go in to see the plague, lest all that is in the house be unclean: and afterward the priest shall go in to see the house. 37. And if he look upon the plague, and find that there be yellow or reddish dimples in the wall of the house, and that the appearance thereof be deeper than the wall, 38. Then he shall go out at the door of the house, and shut up the house seven days. 39. And when he cometh again the seventh day, and seeth that the plague hath eaten upon the wall of the house, 40. And he shall break out the stones that have the mark therein, and cast them out of the city into an unclean place. 41. And the house shall be scraped round about on the inner side, and the glue that is scraped shall be cast out of the city into an unclean place. 42. And take other stones, and put them in their place, and take other glue, and cast it upon the house. 43. And it shall come to pass, when the plague is come again, and shall break out upon the house, after that the stones are taken out, and the house is cast in another way, 44. Then the priest shall go in. And when he seeth that the plague hath eaten in the house, it is surely a leprosy that eateth in the house, and is unclean. 45. Therefore they shall break down the house, both the stone and the timber, and all the glue that is upon the house, and shall bring it out of the city into an unclean place. 46. And whosoever entereth into the house while it is shut up shall be unclean until the even. 47. And whosoever lieth within, or eateth within, shall wash his clothes. 48. And if the priest, when he is come in, seeth that the plague hath not spread abroad in the house, after that the house is cast down, then he shall cleanse it: for the plague is healed. 49. And he shall take for a sin offering for the house two birds, and cedar wood, and wool of the color of rose, and hyssop. 50. And kill the one bird in an earthen vessel by running water. 51. And he shall take the cedar wood, and the wool of the color of the rose, and the hyssop, and the living bird, and dip them in the blood of the slain bird by the running water, and sprinkle the house seven times. 52. And he shall cleanse the house with the blood of the bird, and with running water, and with the living bird, and with the cedar wood, and with hyssop, and with wool of the color of raisins. 53. And he shall let the living bird fly out of the city into the open field, and make an atonement for the house, and it shall be clean. 54. This is the law concerning all manner of leprosy and scabies: 55. About the leprosy of the garments and the houses, 56. About the bumps, gnats and pus white, 57. That it may be known whether a thing is unclean or clean: this is the law of leprosy. (Leviticus) Chapter 15 Man's and woman's persons afflicted with unclean flux, how to cleanse them. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: If a man have a flow in his flesh, the same is unclean. 3. But then he is unclean by this river, if his flesh be festered or clogged by the river. 4. Every bed whereon he lieth, and every thing whereon he sitteth, shall be unclean. 5. And whosoever toucheth his bed shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 6. And whosoever sitteth down after he hath sat shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be until the even. 7. Whosoever toucheth his flesh shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 8. If he cast his spittle upon him that is clean, he shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 9. And the saddle upon which he rideth shall be unclean. 10. And whosoever toucheth any thing that is under him shall be unclean until the even. And whosoever weareth any of these things shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 11. And whomsoever he toucheth before he wash his hands, he shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 12. If he touch an earthen vessel, it shall be broken: but the wooden vessel shall be washed with water. 13. And if he be clean from his river, then he shall number seven days after he is clean: and he shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in running water, and be clean. 14. And on the eighth day he shall take two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, and bring them before the LORD unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and give them unto the priest. 15. And the priest shall make of the one a sin offering, and of the other a burnt offering, and make an atonement for him before the LORD for his river. 16. If a man's seed escape him in his sleep, he shall bathe all his flesh in water, and be unclean until the even. 17. And the garment and all the skin that is spotted with the seed shall he wash with water, and be unclean until the even. 18. A woman with whom such a one lieth shall bathe herself in water, and be unclean until the even. 19. If a woman of her womb have a flow of blood, she shall be put away seven days: whosoever toucheth her shall be unclean until the even. 20. And all that she lieth upon, while it is her season, shall be unclean: and that she sitteth upon shall be unclean. 21. And whosoever toucheth their camp shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 22. And whosoever toucheth any thing that she hath sat upon shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 23. And whosoever toucheth any thing that is in their bed, or where they sat, or where they lied, or where they stood, shall be unclean until the even. 24. And if a man lie with her, and her time come upon him; he shall be unclean seven days; and the bed whereon he lay shall be unclean. 25. And if a woman have her issue of blood a long time, not only in her ordinary time, but also above her ordinary time, she shall be unclean all the days of her issue: as in the time of her issue, so shall she be unclean here also. 26. Every bed whereon she lieth, all the days of her flow, shall be as the bed of her separation. And all that she sitteth upon shall be unclean, like unto the uncleanness of her separation. 27. Whosoever toucheth any thing shall be unclean, and shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even. 28. And if she be clean from her river, then she shall number seven days; after that she shall be clean. 29. And on the eighth day she shall take two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, and bring them unto the priest unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 30. And the priest shall make one a sin offering, and the other a burnt offering, and make an atonement for them before the LORD for the river of their uncleanness. 31. Thus shall ye warn the children of Israel against their uncleanness, that they die not in their uncleanness, when they defile my tabernacle which is among you. 32. This is the law concerning him that hath a river, and the seed thereof escapeth from him in his sleep, and he is defiled thereby, 33. And over her that hath the flow of blood, and over him that hath the flow of blood, whether it be man or woman, and if a man lie with an unclean woman. (Leviticus) Chapter 16 Annual Atonement. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, after that the two sons of Aaron were dead, when they sacrificed before the LORD. 2. And he said, Tell Aaron thy brother, that he go not all his days into the inner sanctuary behind the vail that is before the mercy seat that is upon the ark, that he die not: for I will appear in a cloud upon the mercy seat. 3. But with these shall he go in, with a young bullock for a sin offering, and with a ram for a burnt offering. 4. And he shall put on the holy linen garment, and have linen lowcloth upon his flesh, and shall gird himself with a linen girdle, and have on his linen hat: for these are the holy garments: and he shall bathe his flesh in water, and put them on. 5. And he shall take of the congregation of the children of Israel two kids of the goats for a sin offering, and one ram for a burnt offering. 6. And Aaron shall bring the bullock, his sin offering, and make an atonement for himself, and for his house; 7. And afterward take the two goats, and set them before the LORD at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 8. And he shall cast lots for the two rams, one lot for the LORD, and the other lot for the kid. 9. And he shall offer the goat, upon which the LORD'S lot shall fall, for a sin offering. 10. But the goat, upon which the lot of the unborn goat shall fall, he shall present alive before the LORD, to make an atonement for him: and he shall send the unborn goat into the wilderness. 11. And he shall bring the bullock of his sin offering, and make an atonement for himself and for his house, and shall kill it. 12. And he shall take a vial of fire from off the altar that is before the LORD, and a handful of pounded incense, and put it behind the vail; 13. And put the incense upon the fire before the LORD, that the mist of the incense may cover the mercy seat, which is upon the testimony, that he die not. 14. And he shall take the blood of the bullock, and sprinkle it with his finger before the mercy seat: seven times shall he sprinkle of the blood with his finger before the mercy seat. 15. And afterward he shall kill the goat, the sin offering of the people, and bring in the blood thereof behind the vail, and shall do with the blood thereof as he did with the blood of the bullock, and sprinkle it before the mercy seat; 16. And he shall make an atonement for the sanctuary from the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and from their transgression in all their sins. So shall he do unto the tabernacle of the congregation: for they are unclean that are round about. 17. No man shall be in the tabernacle of the congregation, when he goeth in to make an atonement in the holy place, until he come out: and he shall make an atonement for himself, and for his house, and for all the congregation of Israel. 18. And when he goeth forth unto the altar which is before the LORD, he shall make an atonement for it, and take the blood of the bullock, and the blood of the goat, and put them round about upon the horns of the altar. 19. And he shall sprinkle of the blood thereof with his finger seven times, and cleanse it, and sanctify it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel. 20. And when he hath made an atonement for the sanctuary, and for the tabernacle of the congregation, and for the altar, he shall bring the live goat. 21. Then Aaron shall lay both his hands upon his head, and confess upon him all the iniquity of the children of Israel, and all their transgression in all their sins; and he shall lay them upon the head of the goat, and cause him to run into the wilderness by a man that is present, 22. That the goat may carry all their iniquities upon him into a wilderness, and leave him in the wilderness. 23. And Aaron shall go into the tabernacle of the congregation, and put off the linen garments which he put on when he entered into the holy place, and shall leave them there. 24. And he shall bathe his flesh in water in the holy place, and put on his own garments, and go forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people, 25. And burn the fat of the sin offering upon the altar. 26. And he that hath brought forth the kid shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and come into the camp. 27. And the bullock of the sin offering, and the goat of the sin offering, which is brought into the sanctuary to make an atonement for the blood thereof, shall be brought forth without the camp, and burnt with fire, both their skin, and their flesh, and their dung. 28. And he that burneth them shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and come into the camp afterward. 29. This also shall be a perpetual statute unto you: On the tenth day of the seventh month ye shall mortify your bodies, and do no work, whether it be native or alien among you. 30. For in this day is your atonement made, that ye should be cleansed; from all your sins ye are cleansed before the LORD. 31. Therefore it shall be unto you the greatest sabbath, and ye shall humble your bodies. An everlasting right be this! 32. And the priest whom he hath ordained, and whose hand he hath filled to be a priest in his father's stead, shall make reconciliation; and he shall put on the linen garments, even the holy garments. 33. And he shall make an atonement for the holy sanctuary, and for the tabernacle of the congregation, and for the altar, and for the priests, and for all the people of the congregation. 34. This shall be a statute for ever unto you, to make reconciliation for the children of Israel from all their sins once in a year: and Moses did as the LORD commanded him. (Leviticus) Chapter 17 Place of sacrifice determined blood forbidden to eat. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto Aaron, and to his sons, and to all the children of Israel, and say unto them: This is that the LORD hath commanded: 3. Whosoever of the house of Israel shall kill an ox, or a lamb, or a kid, in the camp, or without the camp. 4. And bringeth it not unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, to be offered unto the LORD before the tabernacle of the LORD: he shall be guilty of blood, as he that shed blood: and such a man shall be cut off from among his people. 5. Therefore the children of Israel shall bring their sacrifices, which they offer in the open field, unto the LORD, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest, and there shall they offer their peace offerings unto the LORD. 6. And the priest shall sprinkle the blood upon the altar of the LORD at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and burn the fat for a sweet savour unto the LORD; 7. And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto the devils of the field, with whom they commit fornication. This shall be a perpetual statute unto them in their generations. 8. Therefore thou shalt say unto them, What man there is of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that are among you, that offereth a sacrifice or a burnt offering? 9. And bringeth it not unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, that he may do it unto the LORD: he shall be cut off from among his people. 10. And whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, that eateth any blood, against him will I set my face, and will cut him off from among his people. 11. For the life of the body is in the blood: and I have given it unto you for an altar, to make reconciliation for your souls. For the blood is the propitiation for life. 12. Therefore I said unto the children of Israel, No soul among you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger that sojourneth among you. 13. And whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that sojourneth among you, that catcheth any beast or fowl to hunt, which is eaten, he shall shed the blood thereof, and cover it with earth. 14. For the life of the body is in his blood all the days of his life: and I said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall eat no flesh's blood. For the life of the body is in his blood. He that eateth it shall be cut off. 15. And whatsoever soul eateth a carcase, or that which is torn of the beast, whether he be a native or a stranger, he shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even; and he shall be clean. 16. If he wash not his clothes, nor bathe himself, he shall be guilty of his iniquity. (Leviticus) Chapter 18 Forbidden degrees of blood friendship in marriage. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: I am the LORD your God. 3. Ye shall not do after the manner of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, nor after the manner of the land of Canaan, whither I will bring you: neither shall ye do after their manner. 4. But after one righteousness shall ye do, and my statutes shall ye keep, to walk therein: for I am the LORD your God. 5. Therefore shall ye keep my statutes, and my judgments. For every man that doeth them shall live thereby: for I am the LORD. 6. Let no man put himself to his near kinswoman to bare her shame: for I am the LORD. 7. Thou shalt not put thy father's shame, nor thy mother's shame: it is thy mother, therefore shalt thou not put her shame. 8. Thou shalt not put thy father's wife to shame: for it is thy father's shame. 9. Thou shalt not put thy sister to shame, which is thy father's daughter, or thy mother's daughter, born at home, or born without. 10. Thou shalt not blush thy son's shame, nor thy daughter's shame: for it is thine own shame. 11. Thou shalt not put to shame the daughter of thy father's wife, which is born unto thy father, and is thy sister. 12. Thou shalt not put thy father's sister to shame: for she is thy father's near kinswoman. 13. Thou shalt not put thy mother's sister to shame: for she is thy mother's near kinswoman. 14. Thou shalt not put thy father's brother to shame, to take his wife: for she is thy cousin. 15. Thou shalt not bare thy cord: for it is thy son's wife: therefore thou shalt not bare her shame. 16. Thou shalt not put thy brother's wife to shame: for she is thy brother's shame. 17. Thou shalt not uncover thy wife's shame, nor her daughter's shame, nor take her son's daughter, nor her daughter's daughter, to uncover her shame: for it is her near kinswoman, and is a vice. 18. Neither shalt thou take thy wife's sister beside her, to uncover her shame, because she is yet alive. 19. Thou shalt not go unto the woman, because she hath her disease, to bare her shame in her uncleanness. 20. Neither shalt thou lie with thy neighbour's wife to pollute her, that thou mayest defile thyself with her. 21. Neither shalt thou give thy seed to be burned unto Molech, that thou profane not the name of thy God: for I am the LORD. 22. Thou shalt not lie with boys as with a woman: for it is an abomination. 23. Neither shalt thou lie with any beast, to defile thyself with it. And no woman shall lie with any beast: for it is an abomination. 24. Ye shall not defile yourselves in these things: for in all these things have the heathen defiled themselves, whom I will cast out before you, 25. And the land is polluted thereby. And I will seek their iniquity against them, and the land shall vomit out her inhabitants. 26. Therefore keep my statutes and my judgments, and do none of these abominations, neither the native nor the stranger among you; 27. For all such abominations have the people of this land done, which were before you, and have defiled the land; 28. Lest the land also spue you out, when ye defile it, as it spued out the heathen that were before you. 29. For they that do these abominations shall have their souls cut off from among their people. 30. Wherefore keep my statutes, that ye do not after the abominable customs which were before you, that ye be not defiled therewith: for I am the LORD your God. (Leviticus) Chapter 19 Interpretation of the ten commandments and other laws. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them: Ye shall be holy: for I am holy, the LORD your God. 3. Every man shall fear his mother and his father. Keep my feast days: for I am the LORD your God. 4. Ye shall not turn unto idols, neither shall ye make unto yourselves molten gods: for I am the LORD your God. 5. And if ye will offer peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer such things as may please him. 6. But ye shall eat it the same day that ye offer it, and the next day: and whatsoever remaineth the third day shall be burnt with fire. 7. But if any man eat thereof the third day, he is an abomination, and shall not be accepted. 8. And the same eater shall bear his iniquity, because he hath profaned the sanctuary of the LORD: and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. 9. When thou reapest thy land, thou shalt not cut it off at the ends round about, neither shalt thou gather it all up accurately. 10. Neither shalt thou glean thy vineyard accurately, nor gather up the fallen grapes: but thou shalt leave it unto the poor and to the stranger: for I am the LORD your God. 11. Ye shall not steal, nor lie, nor deal falsely, one with another. 12. Ye shall not swear falsely by my name, nor profane the name of thy God: for I am the LORD. 13. Thou shalt not wrong thy neighbour, neither shalt thou rob him. The wages of the hired servant shall not remain with thee until the morning. 14. Thou shalt not curse the deaf. Thou shalt not offend the blind: for thou shalt fear thy God: for I am the LORD. 15. Ye shall not deal unjustly in judgment, neither shall ye prefer the lowly, nor honour the great: but thou shalt judge thy neighbour aright. 16. Thou shalt not be a slanderer among thy people. Neither shalt thou stand against thy neighbour's blood: for I am the LORD. 17. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart; but thou shalt punish thy neighbour, that thou bear not his iniquity. 18. Thou shalt not be revengeful, nor bear wrath against the children of thy people. Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: for I am the LORD. 19. My statutes shall ye keep, that thou suffer not thy cattle to tamper with other beasts, nor sow thy field with seed of divers kinds; neither shall any garment come upon thee mingled with wool and linen. 20. If a man lie with a woman, and put her to sleep, which is a bondmaid, and is spurned of her husband, but is not redeemed, neither hath she obtained liberty: that shall be punished; but they shall not die, because she was not free. 21. And he shall bring a ram for a trespass offering unto the LORD at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation for his trespass. 22. And the priest shall make an atonement for him with the trespass offering before the LORD for the sin which he hath committed: and God shall be gracious unto him for his sin which he hath committed. 23. When ye come into the land, and plant every tree that is eaten thereof, then ye shall circumcise the foreskin thereof, and the fruit thereof. And ye shall keep them uncircumcised three years, that ye eat them not. 24. And in the fourth year all the fruits thereof shall be holy, and glorified unto the LORD. 25. And in the fifth year ye shall eat the fruit, and gather it: for I am the LORD your God. 26. Ye shall eat nothing with blood. Ye shall not hearken unto the cry of birds, neither shall ye choose days. 27. Ye shall not cut off the hair of your head round about, neither shave off your beard. 28. Ye shall not pluck any mark upon your body for the dead, neither shall ye pluck any letter upon you: for I am the LORD. 29. Thou shalt not keep thy daughter in whoredom, lest the land commit whoredom, and be full of vice. 30. Keep my feast, and fear my sanctuary: for I am the LORD. 31. Ye shall not turn unto soothsayers, neither inquire of sorcerers of signs, lest ye be defiled in them: for I am the LORD your God. 32. Thou shalt rise up before a gray head, and honour the aged: for thou shalt fear thy God: for I am the LORD. 33. If a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not oppress him. 34. He shall dwell with you as a native among you, and you shall love him as yourself: for ye also were strangers in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God. 35. Ye shall not deal unequally in judgment with the cubit, with weight, with measure. 36. Right scales, right pounds, right bushels, right pitchers, shall be with you: for I am the LORD your God, which brought you up out of the land of Egypt, 37. That ye keep all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: for I am the LORD. (Leviticus) Chapter 20 Punishments of different sins. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Say unto the children of Israel, Whosoever he be of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn in Israel, that giveth his seed unto Molech, he shall surely be put to death: the people of the land shall stone him. 3. And I will set my face against such a man, and will cut him off from among his people, because he hath given his seed to the Molech, and hath defiled my sanctuary, and profaned my holy name. 4. And where the people of the land shall see by the fingers of the man that gave his seed unto Molech, that they kill him not, 5. Then will I set my face against that man, and against his seed, and will cut him off, and all that have followed him with the Molech, from among their people. 6. And if a soul turn unto the diviners and to the interpreters of signs to follow them, then will I set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people. 7. Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. 8. And keep my statutes, and do them: for I am the LORD that sanctifieth you. 9. Whosoever curseth his father or his mother shall surely be put to death. His blood be upon him, because he hath cursed his father or his mother. 10. Whosoever committeth adultery with any man's wife shall surely be put to death, both he that committeth adultery, and he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife. 11. If a man lie with his father's wife, and have uncovered his father's shame, they shall both surely be put to death. Their blood be upon them. 12. If any man sleep by his cord, they shall both be put to death: for they have committed a shame. Their blood be upon them! 13. If any man sleep with a boy, as with a woman, they have done an abomination, and shall both be put to death. Their blood be upon them! 14. If a man take a wife, and her mother with her, he hath committed a trespass: he shall be burned with fire, and they with him, that there be no trespass among you. 15. If a man lie with cattle, he shall surely be put to death; and the cattle shall be strangled. 16. And if a woman shall come near unto any beast, to have dealings with it, thou shalt kill them, and the beast also; they shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them. 17. If a man take his sister, his father's daughter, or his mother's daughter, and look upon her shame, and she upon his shame, it is an incest: they shall be cut off from among their people: for he hath uncovered his sister's shame. He shall bear his iniquity. 18. If a man lie with a woman in the time of her sickness, and uncover her shame, and uncover her fountain, and she uncover the fountain of her blood; both of them shall be cut off from among their people. 19. The shame of thy mother's sister, and the shame of thy father's sister, shalt thou not uncover: for such a one hath uncovered his near kinswoman, and they shall bear their iniquity. 20. If a man lie with his father's brother's wife, he hath disgraced his father's wife: they shall bear their sin: without children they shall die. 21. If a man take his brother's wife, it is a shameful thing: they shall be without children, because he hath blotted out his brother's shame. 22, Now therefore keep all my statutes and my judgments, and do them; lest the land whereunto I bring you to dwell should spue you out. 23. And walk not in the statutes of the heathen, which I will cast out before you. For all these things have they done, and I have abhorred them. 24. But unto you I say, Ye shall inherit that land: for I will give you a land for an inheritance, flowing with milk and honey. I am the LORD your God, which have separated you from the people, 25. That ye also separate the one cattle from the unclean, and unclean fowls from the clean; and that ye defile not your souls in cattle, and in fowls, and in all that creep upon the earth, which I have separated unto you to be unclean. 26. Therefore ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, which have separated you from the nations, that ye should be mine. 27. If any man or woman be a soothsayer, or an interpreter of signs, they shall surely be put to death; they shall be stoned. Their blood be upon them! (Leviticus) Chapter 21 How a priest should behave. 1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto the priests, Aaron's sons, and say unto them: A priest shall not defile himself in any dead body of his people, 2. without his blood friend, who is nearest to him, as his mother, his father, his son, his daughter, his brother 3. And his sister, which is a virgin, and is yet with him, and hath not been a man's wife; in her may he defile himself. 4. Otherwise he shall not defile himself against any that are of his people, that he may defile himself. 5. Neither shall they make a plate upon their head, nor shave off their beard, nor put a plague upon their flesh. 6. They shall be holy unto their God, and shall not profane the name of their God. For they offer the sacrifice of the LORD, the bread of their God: therefore shall they be holy. 7. They shall not take a harlot, nor an infirm woman, nor one that is put away by her husband: for he is holy unto his God. 8. Therefore thou shalt keep him holy, because he offereth the bread of thy God: he shall be holy unto thee, because I am holy, the LORD that sanctifieth you. 9. If a priest's daughter begin to fornicate, she shall be burned with fire: for she hath defiled her father. 10. Whatsoever high priest there be of his brethren, upon whose head the anointing oil is poured, and his hand is filled to clothe him with the garments, he shall not uncover his head, neither shall he cut his garments; 11. And he shall not come unto any dead person, neither shall he defile himself against his father, nor against his mother. 12. He shall not go out of the sanctuary, lest he profane the sanctuary of his God: for the holy crown, the anointing oil of his God, is upon him. I am the LORD. 13. And he shall take a virgin to wife. 14. But he shall not take a widow, nor an outcast, nor an infirm, nor a harlot, but a virgin of his people to wife, 15. Lest he profane his seed among his people: for I am the LORD that sanctifieth him. 16. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 17. Speak unto Aaron, saying, If there be any blemish in any of thy seed among your generations, let him not come near to offer the bread of his God. 18. For let no man in whom there is a defect come forward. Let him be blind, let him be lame, let him have a strange nose, let him have a strange limb, 19. or who is infirm in one foot or hand, 20. or is humpbacked, or has fur on his eye, or is shy, or is grindproof, or is shabby, or is broken. 21. Whosoever therefore of Aaron the priest's seed hath a defect in him, let him not come near to offer the sacrifices of the LORD: for he hath a defect, therefore let him not come near to offer the loaves of his God. 22. But he shall eat the bread of his God, both of the holy, and of the most holy. 23. But he shall not come nigh unto the vail, neither shall he come nigh unto the altar: for the fault is in him, that he profane not my sanctuary: for I am the LORD that sanctifieth it. 24. And Moses spake these things unto Aaron, and unto his sons, and unto all the children of Israel. (Leviticus) Chapter 22 Of the victim's nature. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Tell Aaron and his sons to abstain from the holy things of the children of Israel, which they hallow unto me, and not to profane my holy name: for I am the LORD. 3. Say therefore unto them concerning their seed: Whosoever of your seed shall come near unto the holy things, which the children of Israel sanctify unto the LORD, and shall defile himself against them, his soul shall be cut off from my face: for I am the LORD. 4. Whosoever is leprous of the seed of Aaron, or hath an issue, he shall not eat of the holy things, until he be clean. For whosoever toucheth an unclean body, or whose seed escapeth in his sleep, 5. And whosoever toucheth any thing that is unclean to him, or any man that is unclean to him, and all that defileth him: 6. Whosoever toucheth the soul of one shall be unclean until the even: he shall not eat of the holy things, but shall first bathe his body in water. 7. And when the sun is down, and he is clean, then may he eat thereof: for it is his food. 8. A carcase, and that which is torn of wild beasts, shall he not eat; lest he be defiled thereby: for I am the LORD. 9. Therefore let them keep my statutes, lest they bring sin upon themselves, and die by it, when they profane themselves: for I am the LORD that sanctifieth them. 10. No other shall eat of the holy things, neither the priest's household, nor the hireling. 11. And if the priest buy a soul for his money, he may eat of it: and whatsoever is born unto him in his house may eat of his bread. 12. And if the priest's daughter be a stranger's wife, she shall not eat of the holy heave. 13. And if she be a widow, or cast out, and have no seed, and come again to her father's house, then she shall eat of her father's bread, as when she was a maid. But no stranger shall eat thereof. 14. And whosoever eateth of the holy things shall add the fifth part unto it, and give it unto the priest with the holy things, 15. That they profane not the holy things of the children of Israel, which they set apart unto the LORD, 16. That they be not laden with iniquity and guilt, when they eat their holy things: for I am the LORD that sanctifieth them. 17. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 18. Speak unto Aaron, and to his sons, and to all the children of Israel, saying, Whatsoever Israelite or stranger that is in Israel will offer his oblation, whether it be of their vows, or of their own free will, to offer a burnt offering acceptable unto the LORD from among you, 19. This shall be a male, and without change, of cattle, or of lambs, or of kids. 20. Ye shall not sacrifice any thing that hath blemish: for it shall not be acceptable unto you. 21. And whosoever shall offer a peace offering unto the LORD, a special vow, or a freewill offering, of oxen or sheep, it shall be without change, that it may be acceptable; it shall have no blemish. 22. If it be blind, or infirm, or beaten, or scrawny, or ashen, or ashamed, ye shall not offer it unto the LORD, neither shall ye offer any sacrifice of it upon the altar of the LORD. 23. An ox or a sheep, which hath uncommon members, or changeable members, thou mayest offer of thy own free will; but it may not be acceptable for a vow. 24. Neither shalt thou offer unto the LORD any thing that is bruised, or torn, or rent, or wounded; neither shalt thou do it in your land. 25. Neither shalt thou offer any of these of the hand of a stranger beside the bread of your God: for it is not fit, neither is it wanting: therefore it shall not be acceptable unto you. 26. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 27. When an ox, or a lamb, or a goat, is born, it shall be with its mother seven days; and on the eighth day and after that it may be offered unto the LORD, and it shall be accepted. 28. Whether it be an ox or a lamb, it shall not be killed with his young in one day. 29. But if ye will offer a sacrifice of praise unto the LORD, that shall be acceptable unto you, 30. Then shall ye eat it that day, and shall keep nothing over till the morning: for I am the LORD. 31. Therefore keep my commandments, and do them: for I am the LORD. 32. That ye profane not my holy name, and that I be sanctified among the children of Israel: for I am the LORD that sanctifieth you, 33. Who brought you up out of the land of Egypt, that I might be your God, I the LORD. (Leviticus) Chapter 23. Order of the noblest festivals. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: These are the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall call holy, and my feasts, when ye come together. 3. Six days shalt thou labour: but the seventh day is the great holy sabbath, when ye come together. No work shall ye do within: for it is the sabbath of the LORD in all your dwellings. 4. Now these are the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall call holy feasts, when ye come together: 5. On the fourteenth day of the first month between evenings is the LORD'S passover. 6. And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast of unleavened bread unto the LORD: there ye shall eat bread unleavened seven days. 7. The first day shall be called holy among you, when ye come together: ye shall do no service there. 8. And offer unto the LORD seven days. The seventh day also shall be called holy, when ye come together; neither shall ye do any service there. 9. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 10. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When ye come into the land which I will give you, and ye shall reap it, then ye shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest unto the priest. 11. And the sheaf shall be woven before the LORD, that it may be acceptable unto you: and the priest shall do it on the morrow after the sabbath. 12. And ye shall offer a burnt offering unto the LORD in the day that your sheaf is woven, of a lamb that is without change, and of the first year, 13. And the meat offering, two tithes of fine flour mingled with oil, for an offering made to the LORD of a sweet savour; and the drink offering, a fourth part of an hin of wine. 14. And ye shall eat no new bread, nor sing, nor eat corn before, until the day that ye offer sacrifice unto your God. This shall be a statute unto your seed in all your dwellings. 15. And afterward ye shall count from the second day of the sabbath, when ye brought the sheaf, seven whole sabbaths; 16. Until the second day of the seventh sabbath, even fifty days, ye shall number them, and offer new meat offerings unto the LORD. 17. And ye shall offer out of all your dwellings two loaves of two tithes of fine flour, leavened and baked, for the firstfruits unto the LORD. 18. And ye shall bring beside your bread seven lambs of the first year without change, and a young bullock, and two rams. This shall be the LORD'S burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering: it is an offering of a sweet savour unto the LORD. 19. And ye shall offer one kid of the goats for a sin offering, and two lambs of the first year for a peace offering. 20. And the priest shall wave it, and the bread of the firstfruits, before the LORD, and the two lambs: and it shall be holy unto the LORD, and of the priest. 21. And ye shall proclaim this day, for it shall be called holy among you, when ye come together; ye shall do no service. A perpetual statute shall it be among your seed in all your dwellings. 22. But when ye reap your land, ye shall not cut it even in the field, neither shall ye gather it all up accurately, but ye shall leave it for the poor and for strangers. I am the LORD your God. 23. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 24. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the first day of the seventh month ye shall keep the holy sabbath of blowing in remembrance, when ye come together. 25. Then ye shall do no service, and ye shall sacrifice unto the LORD. 26. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 27. The tenth day of this seventh month is the day of atonement. And it shall be called holy unto you, that ye come together, and mortify your bodies, and offer them unto the LORD. 28. And ye shall do no work in this day: for it is the day of atonement, that ye may be reconciled before the LORD your God. 29. For whosoever shall not mortify his body in that day shall be cut off from among his people. 30. And whosoever shall do any work this day, him will I destroy from among his people. 31. Therefore ye shall do no work. This shall be a perpetual statute unto your seed in all your dwellings. 32. It is your great sabbath, that ye should mortify your bodies. On the ninth day of the month, at evening, you shall keep this Sabbath from evening until evening again. 33. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 34. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the fifteenth day of this seventh month is the feast of tabernacles seven days unto the LORD. 35. The first day shall be called holy, that ye come together: ye shall do no work of service. 36. Seven days ye shall sacrifice unto the LORD. The eighth day also shall be called holy, that ye should come together, and offer your sacrifice unto the LORD: for it is the day of meeting: ye shall do no work of service. 37. These are the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall keep holy, to come together, and to offer sacrifices unto the LORD, burnt offerings, and meat offerings, and drink offerings, and other sacrifices, every one according to his day, 38. Without which the sabbath of the LORD, and your gifts, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, which ye give unto the LORD. 39. Now therefore on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have brought in the revenue of the land, ye shall keep the feast of the LORD seven days. On the first day it is the sabbath, and on the eighth day it is also the sabbath. 40. And ye shall take fruit of goodly trees the first day, and branches of palm trees, and may of thick trees, and pastures of brooks; and ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days. 41. And ye shall keep the feast of the year unto the LORD seven days. This shall be a perpetual statute unto your seed, that they may keep the feast in the seventh month. 42. Seven days ye shall dwell in tabernacles: he that is a native of Israel shall dwell in tabernacles, 43. That your seed may know how I made the children of Israel dwell in tents, when I brought them up out of the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God. 44. And Moses told the children of Israel such feasts of the LORD. (Leviticus) Chapter 24 From the candlestick shewbread. Punishment of blasphemers and manslayers. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Command the children of Israel, that they bring unto thee all the oil of the trees cast for lights, and that it be put into the lamps above every day, 3. Without the vail of the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation. And Aaron shall prepare it before the LORD evening and morning daily. And this shall be a statute for ever unto your seed. 4. And he shall set the lamps upon the fine candlestick before the LORD daily. 5. And thou shalt take breadcrumbs, and bake twelve cakes thereof; two tithes shall be in one cake. 6. And thou shalt lay them six by six upon a bed upon a fine table before the LORD. 7. And thou shalt put upon them pure incense, that they may be for a memorial bread made by fire unto the LORD. 8. All the sabbaths for and for shall he prepare them before the LORD, of the children of Israel, for an everlasting covenant. 9. And it shall be Aaron's, and his sons', that they shall eat of them in the holy place: for this is his holy of holies of the offerings of the LORD for an everlasting statute. 10. And there went out of the children of Israel the son of an Israelitish woman, the son of an Egyptian man, and quarreled with an Israelitish man in the camp. 11. And blasphemed the name, and cursed. Then they brought him unto Moses, (but his mother's name was Selomith, a daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan,) 12. And put him in prison, until they had a clear answer at the mouth of the LORD. 13. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 14. Bring out the curser from before the camp, and let all that heard him lay their hands upon his head, and let all the congregation stone him. 15. And say unto the children of Israel, Whosoever curseth his God, let him bear his sin. 16. Whosoever blasphemeth the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death: all the congregation shall stone him. As the stranger, so shall the native be: if he blaspheme the name, he shall die. 17. Whosoever slayeth any man shall surely be put to death. 18. And whosoever killeth any beast, he shall pay for it body for body. 19. And whosoever shall hurt his neighbour, it shall be done to him according to all that he hath done: 20. A pity for a pity, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth: as he hath hurt a man, so shall it be done unto him again. 21. So that whosoever slayeth cattle shall pay for it: but whosoever slayeth a man shall die. 22. There shall be judgment one among you, both for the stranger and for the native: for I am the LORD your God. 23. And Moses told the children of Israel; and they brought out the curser before the camp, and stoned him. So the children of Israel did as the LORD commanded Moses. (Leviticus) Chapter 25 Celebration and Jubilee. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses in mount Sinai, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When ye come into the land which I will give you, then shall the land keep her feast unto the LORD, 3. That thou sow thy field six years, and prune thy vineyard six years, and gather in the fruit thereof. 4. But in the seventh year the land shall keep her great feast unto the LORD, in the which thou shalt not sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard. 5. But that which groweth of itself after thy harvest thou shalt not reap: and the grapes which grow without thy labour thou shalt not gather, because it is a solemn year of the land. 6. But ye shall keep the feast of the land, that thou mayest eat thereof, thy manservant, thy maidservant, thy hired servant, thy household, and thy stranger that sojourneth with thee, 7. Thy cattle and the beasts of thy land. All the fruits shall be food. 8. And thou shalt number the seven solemnities, and seven years shall be numbered seven times: and the seven solemnities shall be forty and nine years. 9. Then shalt thou sound a trumpet throughout all your land in the tenth day of the seventh month, even in the day of atonement. 10. And ye shall keep holy the fiftieth year, and ye shall call it a year of restitution in the land unto all that dwell therein: for it is your year of restitution, and every man shall be restored unto his possession and to his family among you. 11. For the fiftieth year is your year of rejoicing: ye shall not sow, neither shall ye reap that which groweth of itself; neither shall ye gather that which groweth without labour in the vineyard. 12. For the year of jubilee shall be holy among you. But ye shall eat that which the field yieldeth. 13. This is the year of jubilee, when every man shall come again to his own. 14. Now therefore, if thou sell any thing unto thy neighbour, or buy any thing of him, let no man take advantage of his brother, 15. But according to the number of the year of jubilee thou shalt buy it of him: and the years that follow shall he sell unto thee. 16. According to the multitude of years thou shalt increase the purchase, and according to the fewness of years thou shalt contend for the purchase: for he shall sell it unto thee according to his bearing. 17. Now therefore let no man take advantage of his neighbour, but fear your God: for I am the LORD your God. 18. Therefore do according to my statutes, and keep my judgments, that ye may do them; that ye may dwell safely in the land. 19. For the land shall yield her fruit unto you, that ye may have enough to eat, and dwell safely therein. 20. And if thou say, What shall we eat in the seventh year? for we sow not, neither gather we in corn: 21. Then will I command my blessing upon you in the sixth year, and he shall make three years' corn, 22. That ye sow in the eighth year, and eat of the old corn until the ninth year; that ye eat of the old, until there be new corn again. 23. Therefore ye shall not sell the land for ever: for the land is mine, and ye are strangers and sojourners before me. 24. And ye shall give the land to be redeemed in all your land. 25. If thy brother be poor, and sell thee his goods, and his neighbour come to him to redeem them, he shall redeem them that his brother hath sold. 26. But if a man have no loosener, and he be able to do so much with his hand, that he looseneth it in part, 27. And it shall be reckoned from the year that he sold it, and the rest of the years shall be restored unto the seller, that he may recover his goods. 28. And if his hand be not able to find so much as shall be restored unto him, then that which he hath sold shall be in the hand of the buyer until the year of jubilee; and in that year it shall go out, and he shall recover his possession. 29. He that selleth a house within the wall of the city shall have a whole year to redeem it; and that shall be the time wherein he may redeem it. 30. And if he redeem it not before the whole year be expired, then the buyer shall keep it for ever, and his seed, and shall not go out in the year of jubile. 31. And if it be a house in the village, and there be no wall about it, it shall be counted as the field of the land, and shall be let go, and shall go out in the year of jubile. 32. The cities of the Levites, and the houses of the cities, where their substance is, shall be redeemed for ever. 33. And whosoever shall redeem any thing of the Levites shall leave it in the year of jubile, whether it be house or city which he possessed: for the houses of the cities of the Levites are their possession among the children of Israel. 34. But the field before their cities shall not be sold: for it is their possession for ever. 35. If thy brother be poor, and diminish beside thee, then thou shalt receive him as a stranger, or as a sojourner, that he may live beside thee. 36. And thou shalt not take usury of him, nor overcharge him: but thou shalt fear thy God, that thy brother may live beside thee. 37. For thou shalt not give him thy money for usury, neither shalt thou give him thy meat for ransom. 38. For I am the LORD your God, which brought you up out of the land of Egypt, to give you the land of Canaan, to be your God. 39. If thy brother be poor beside thee, and sell himself unto thee, thou shalt not suffer him to serve thee as a bondman, 40. But as a hired servant and a sojourner shall he be with thee, and shall serve thee until the year of jubile. 41. Then he shall go forth from thee, and his children with him; and he shall return unto his seed, and to his fathers' substance. 42. For they are my servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt: therefore they shall not be sold in bondage. 43. And thou shalt not rule over them with severity, but shalt fear thy God. 44. But if thou wilt have bondmen and bondmaids, thou shalt buy them of the heathen that are round about thee, 45. Of the sojourners that are strangers among you, and of their seed which they beget among you in your land, the same shall ye have for your own. 46. And ye shall possess them, and your children after you, for a possession by and by; and ye shall make them bond servants. But over your brethren the children of Israel shall not rule one against another with severity. 47. If any stranger or sojourner increase with thee, and thy brother be poor beside him, and sell himself to the stranger or sojourner with thee, or to any of his tribe, 48. Then he shall have a right to be redeemed after he hath sold, and some one of his brethren may redeem him, 49. or his cousin, or his cousin's son, or else his next of kin of his family; or if his own hand acquire so much, he shall be loosed. 50. And he shall reckon with his buyer from the year that he sold himself unto the year of jubilee; and the money shall be reckoned according to the number of the years of his selling; and his daily wages shall be reckoned in all that time. 51. If there be yet many years before the year of jubilee, he shall give the more to be redeemed after that he is bought. 22. But if there be few years left until the year of jubilee, then he shall give again after that time for his ransom, and shall add his daily wages from year to year. 53. And thou shalt not let rigour rule over him in thine eyes. 54. And if he be not loosed in this way, then he shall go out in the year of jubile, and his children with him. 55. For the children of Israel are my servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God. Chap. 6, v. 1. Ye shall not make unto yourselves any graven image, neither shall ye set up for yourselves any pillar, nor set any graven image in your land, to worship before it: for I am the LORD your God. 2. Keep my sabbaths, and fear my sanctuary. I am the LORD. (Leviticus) Chapter 26 Threatened curse and promised blessing. 3. Will ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them, 4. Then will I give you rain in his season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field their fruit. 5. And the threshing time shall be unto the vintage, and the vintage shall be unto the sowing time. And ye shall have bread in abundance, and shall dwell safely in your land. 6. I will give peace in your land, and ye shall sleep, and none shall affright you. I will put away the evil beasts out of your land, and no sword shall pass through your land. 7. Ye shall pursue your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. 8. Five of you shall chase an hundred, and an hundred of you shall chase ten thousand: for your enemies shall fall before you on the sword. 9. And I will turn unto you, and will cause you to grow and multiply, and will keep my covenant with you. 10. And ye shall eat of the fire, and when the new cometh, ye shall put away the fire. 11. I will make my dwelling among you, and my soul shall not reject you. 12. And I will walk among you, and be your God; and ye shall be my people. 13. For I am the LORD your God, which brought you up out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen: and I have broken your yoke, and made you to walk upright. 14. But if ye will not obey me, and do all these commandments, 15. And ye shall despise my statutes, and your souls shall reject my judgments, and ye shall not do all my commandments, and ye shall forsake my covenant, 16. And I will do this also unto you: I will afflict you with terror, and with pestilence, and with fever; and your faces shall fall, and your bodies faint: ye shall sow your seed in vain, and your enemies shall devour it. 17. And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be smitten before your enemies; and they that hate you shall have dominion over you; and ye shall flee, when no man chaseth you. 18. But if ye obey me not yet above these things, I will punish you seven times more for your sin, 19. And I will break your pride and stiffneckedness; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass. 20. And your toil and your labour shall be lost, that your land yield not her increase, and the trees of the land yield not their fruit. 21. And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me, then will I make it seven times more to smite you for your sin. 22. And I will send wild beasts among you, and they shall devour your children, and rend your cattle, and make you few: and your streets shall be desolate. 23. But will ye not yet be chastened with these things, and walk contrary unto me? 24. I will also walk contrary unto you, and will smite you seven times more for your sin. 25. And I will bring upon you a sword of vengeance, to avenge my covenant. And though ye gather yourselves into your cities, yet will I send pestilence among you, and will deliver you into the hands of your enemies. 26. Then will I destroy your store of bread, and ten women shall bake your bread in one oven, and your bread shall be weighed by weight; and when ye eat, ye shall not be satisfied. 27. But if by this ye will not yet obey me, and walk contrary unto me, 28. Then will I also walk contrary unto you in wrath, and will punish you seven times more for your sin, 29. That ye should eat the flesh of your sons and of your daughters. 30. And I will destroy your high places, and cut off your images; and I will cast your dead bodies upon your idols: and my soul shall be disgusted with you. 31. And I will make your cities desolate, and break down the churches of your sanctuary; and I will not smell your sweet savour. 32. So will I make the land desolate, and your enemies that dwell therein shall be astonished at it. 33. And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out the sword after you, and your land shall be desolate, and your cities desolate. 34. Then shall the land let him have his feast, while it lieth waste, and ye are in the land of the enemy: yea, then shall the land feast, and let him have his feast, 35. As long as it lay desolate, because it could not celebrate, when ye should celebrate it, when ye dwelt therein. 36. And to them that remain of you will I make a cowardly heart in the land of their enemies, and they shall chase a sounding leaf; and they shall flee from it as from a sword, and fall when no man chaseth them. 37. And ye shall fall one upon another as before the sword, and yet none shall chase them: and ye shall not rise up against your enemies. 38. And ye shall perish among the heathen, and the land of your enemies shall devour you. 39. But they that remain of you shall languish in their iniquity in the land of the enemy; they shall also languish in the iniquity of their fathers. 40. Then shall they confess their iniquity, and the iniquity of their fathers, because they have sinned against me, and walked contrary unto me. 41. Therefore will I also walk contrary unto them, and will drive them out into the land of their enemies. Then their uncircumcised hearts will be humbled, and they will accept the punishment of their iniquity. 42. And I will remember my covenant with Jacob, and my covenant with Isaac, and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land, 43. Which is forsaken of them, and hath suffered his feast to fall upon him, because it lieth desolate with them, and they have suffered them the punishment of their iniquity, because they have despised my judgments, and their souls have been disgusted with my statutes. 44. Though they be already in the land of the enemy, yet have I not rejected them, neither am I disgusted with them, that they should cease, and that my covenant with them should be no more: for I am the LORD their God. 45. And I will remember my first covenant against them, when I brought them up out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I should be their God, I the LORD. 46. These are the statutes, and judgments, and laws, which the LORD set between him and the children of Israel in mount Sinai by the hand of Moses. (Leviticus) Chapter 27 Of vows and tithes. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: If any man vow a special vow unto the LORD, that he will value his body, 3. And this shall be the estimation: A man's image, twenty years old unto the sixtieth year, shalt thou value at fifty shekels of silver after the shekel of the sanctuary; 4. a female image at thirty sekels. 5. From five years old even unto twenty years old shalt thou value him twenty shekels, if it be a man's image; but if it be a woman's image, ten shekels. 6. From one month even unto five years old shalt thou value him at five shekels of silver, if he be a man; and if he be a woman, at three shekels of silver. 7. And if he be threescore years old and above, then thou shalt value him fifteen shekels, if he be a man; and if he be a woman, ten shekels. 8. But if he be too poor for such an estimation, then he shall present himself before the priest, and the priest shall estimate him: and he shall estimate him according as his hand can purchase him that hath vowed. 9. But if it be cattle, which may be offered unto the LORD: All that is given unto the LORD is holy. 10. They shall not change, neither shall they change the good for the bad, or the bad for the good. But if a man change one beast for another, they shall both be holy unto the LORD. 11. And if the beast be unclean, that it be not offered unto the LORD, then it shall be presented before the priest. 12. And the priest shall estimate it, whether it be good or bad: and it shall be in the priest's estimation. 13. But if any man will redeem it, he shall give the fifth over the valuation. 14. If a man sanctify his house to be holy unto the LORD, the priest shall esteem it good or bad: and after that the priest esteemeth it, it shall remain. 15. And if he that sanctified it will redeem it, then he shall add unto it the fifth part of the money of which it is estimated, and it shall be so. 16. If any man sanctify a piece of ground of his inheritance unto the LORD, it shall be counted according to his bearing. If he bring in a homor of barley, he shall be counted for fifty shekels of silver. 17. And if he sanctify his field from the year of jubile, it shall be counted according to his dignity. 18. And if he sanctify him after the year of jubile, then the priest shall reckon him according to the years that remain in the year of jubile, and after that he shall reckon him less; 19. And if he that sanctified it will redeem the field, he shall give the fifth part of the money of the price thereof, and it shall be his. 20. But if he will not redeem it, but sell it to another, he shall redeem it no more, 21. But the same field, when it goeth forth in the year of jubile, shall be holy unto the LORD, as an exiled field; and shall be the priest's inheritance. 22. And if a man sanctify unto the LORD a field which he hath bought, and it be not his inheritance, 23. Then the priest shall reckon him according to his worth until the year of jubilee: and he shall give such a reckoning in that day, that he may be holy unto the LORD. 24. But in the year of jubile it shall return unto him of whom he bought it, that it may be his inheritance in the land. 25. All dignity shall be according to the shekel of the sanctuary. And one shekel is twenty gerahs. 26. The firstborn of cattle, which is the LORD's, shall no man sanctify unto the LORD, whether it be an ox or a sheep: for it is the LORD's. 27. And if there be any unclean thing in the beast, then he shall redeem it according to his dignity, and pass over the fifth part. If he will not redeem it, let him sell it according to his dignity. 28. No man shall sell, nor redeem, any thing that is bidden unto the LORD, of all that is his, whether it be cattle or herdsmen: for all that is bidden is most holy unto the LORD. 29. Neither shall any man that is banished be loosed, but he shall die the death. 30. All the tithes of the land, both of the seed of the land, and of the fruit of the trees, are the LORD'S, and shall be holy unto the LORD. 31. But if any man will loose his tithes, he shall give the fifth over. 32. And all the tithes of oxen and sheep, and that which goeth under the rod, are a holy tithe unto the LORD. 33. Neither shall it be asked whether it be good or bad; neither shall it be changed. But if any man change it, both shall be holy, and shall not be redeemed. 34. These are the commandments which the LORD commanded the children of Israel in mount Sinai. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The fourth book of Moses (Numbers) ^ Chapter 1 Number of contending men in Israel. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tabernacle of the congregation, in the first day of the second month of the second year, when they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying: 2. Take the sum of all the congregation of the children of Israel after their families, and after their fathers' houses, and after their names: all that are male, from head to head; 3. From twenty years old and upward, all that are able to go forth to war in Israel: and thou shalt number them according to their armies, thou and Aaron. 4. And ye shall take unto you one captain of the family for his father's house. 5. And these are the names of the captains that shall stand by you: Of Reuben be Elizur the son of Setreur. 6. Of Simeon be Selumiel the son of Zuri-saddai. 7. Of Judah shall Nahesson the son of Amminadab be. 8. Of Issachar, Nethaneel the son of Zuar. 9. Of Zebulun be Eliab the son of Helon. 10. Of the sons of Joseph; Of Ephraim, Elishama the son of Ammihud. Of Manasseh, Gamliel the son of Pedazur. 11. Of Benjamin, Abidan the son of Gideoni. 12. Of Dan, Ahiezer the son of Ammi-saddai. 13. Of Asher, Pagiel the son of Ochran. 14. Of Gad, Eliasaph the son of Deuel. 15. Of Naphtali be Ahira the son of Enan. 16. These are the chief of the congregation, the captains of the tribes of their fathers, which were heads and princes in Israel. 17. And Moses and Aaron took them, as they are called by name, 18. And they gathered all the congregation together on the first day of the second month, and numbered them according to their birth, and according to their families, and their fathers' houses, and their names, from twenty years old and upward, from head to head, 19. As the LORD commanded Moses, and numbered them in the wilderness of Sinai. 20. The children of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel, by their birth, by their families, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from head to head, all the males from twenty years old and upward, that were able to go forth to war, 21. Numbered of the tribe of Reuben were forty and six thousand and five hundred. 22. Of the sons of Simeon, by their birth, by their generations, by the house of their fathers, by their number, and by their names, from head to head, all the males from twenty years old and upward, that were able to go forth to war, 23. Numbered of the tribe of Simeon were fifty and nine thousand and three hundred. 24. The children of Gad, by their birth, by their generations, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 25. Forty and five thousand six hundred and fifty were numbered of the tribe of Gad. 26. The children of Judah, by their birth, by their generations, by the house of their fathers, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were able to go forth to war, 27. There were numbered of the tribe of Judah seventy and four thousand and six hundred. 28. The children of Issachar, by their birth, by their families, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 29. And were numbered of the tribe of Issachar fifty and four thousand and four hundred. 30. The sons of Zebulun, by their birth, by their generations, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 31. Numbered of the tribe of SebuIon were fifty and seven thousand and four hundred. 32. The sons of Joseph of Ephraim, by their birth, by their families, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 33. And there were numbered of the tribe of Ephraim forty thousand and five hundred. 34. The children of Manasseh, by their birth, by their families, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth into the army, 35. And were numbered of the tribe of Manasseh thirty and two thousand and two hundred. 36. The children of Benjamin, by their birth, by their generations, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 37. Numbered of the tribe of Benjamin were thirty and five thousand and four hundred. 38. The children of Dan, according to their birth, their generations, their fathers' houses, and their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 39. Numbered of the tribe of Dan were threescore and two thousand and seven hundred. 40. The children of Asher, by their birth, by their generations, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 41. And there were numbered of the tribe of Asher forty and one thousand and five hundred. 42. The children of Naphtali, by their birth, by their generations, by their fathers' houses, and by their names, from twenty years old and upward, that were fit to go forth to war, 43. Numbered of the tribe of Naphtali were fifty and three thousand and four hundred. 44. These are they which Moses and Aaron numbered, with the twelve princes of Israel, of whom one was over the house of their fathers. 45. And the sum of the children of Israel after their fathers' houses, from twenty years old and upward, which were fit to go into the army in Israel, 46. Whose was six times an hundred thousand, and three thousand five hundred and fifty. 47. But the Levites, after the house of their fathers, were not numbered among them. 48. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 49. The tribe of Levi shalt thou not number, nor take the sum of them among the children of Israel, 50. But thou shalt set them by the tabernacle of the testimony, and by all the vessels, and by all that pertain unto them. And they shall bear the tabernacle, and all the vessels; and they shall keep it, and pitch round about the tabernacle. 51. And when it is to go, the Levites shall take down the tabernacle. And when the host is encamped, they shall pitch the tabernacle. And if a stranger make himself a stranger, he shall die. 52. And the children of Israel shall pitch every man in his camp, and with the band of his host. 53. But the Levites shall encamp round about the tabernacle of the testimony, lest wrath come upon the congregation of the children of Israel: therefore the Levites of the guard shall wait at the tabernacle of the testimony. 54. And the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses. (Numbers) Chapter 2 Order of the camps among the people of Israel. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 2. And the children of Israel shall encamp before the tabernacle of the congregation round about, every man under his banner, and under his mark, according to the house of their fathers. 3. And it shall come to pass in the morning, that Judah shall encamp with her armour and her host; and Naheshon the son of Amminadab shall be their captain; 4. And the host thereof in the sum of seventy and four thousand and six hundred. 5. And the tribe of Issachar shall encamp beside him; and Nethaneel the son of Zuar shall be their captain; 6. And his host of the sum of fifty and four thousand and four hundred. 7. And the tribe of Zebulun; Eliab the son of Helon was their captain; 8. His host of the sum of fifty and seven thousand and four hundred. 9. And all that are numbered of the camp of Judah shall be an hundred and fourscore and six thousand, and four hundred that are numbered of their host: and they shall go forth in the front. 10. And about noon shall lie the tent and panoply of Reuben with their host; their captain Elizur the son of Setreur; 11. And his host, by the sum of them, forty and six thousand and five hundred. 12. And next unto him shall encamp the tribe of Simeon: Selumiel the son of Zuri-saddai shall be their captain; 13. And the host thereof in the sum of fifty and nine thousand three hundred. 14. And the tribe of Gad; Eliasaph the son of Reguel was their captain; 15. And the host thereof in the sum of forty and five thousand six hundred and fifty. 16. And all that are in the camp of Reuben shall be an hundred and fifty and one thousand and four hundred and fifty, which are of their host: and the rest shall be in the going forth. 17. And afterward the tabernacle of the congregation shall go with the camp of the Levites in the midst of the camps: and as they encamp, so shall they go, every man in his place, under his banner. 18. And it shall come to pass at even, that the tent and the tabernacle of Ephraim shall lie with their host: and Elishama the son of Ammihud shall be their captain; 19. And his host by the sum of forty thousand and five hundred. 20. And next unto him shall encamp the tribe of Manasseh; Gamliel the son of Pedezur shall be their captain; 21. His host of the sum of thirty and two thousand and two hundred. 22. And the tribe of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni, their captain; 23. And his host was thirty and five thousand and four hundred. 24. And all that are numbered of the camp of Ephraim shall be an hundred and eight thousand and one hundred, which are of his host: and they shall be the third in going forth. 25. And it shall come to pass at midnight, that the tent and the tabernacle of Dan shall lie with their host; and Ahiezer the son of Ammi-saddai shall be their captain; 26. His host, the sum of them, threescore and two thousand and seven hundred. 27. And next unto him shall encamp the tribe of Asher; and their captain shall be Pagel the son of Ochran; 28. His army, by the sum of forty and one thousand and five hundred. 29. And the tribe of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan, their captain; 30. And his host of the sum of fifty and three thousand and four hundred. 31. And all that are numbered of the camp of Dan shall be an hundred fifty and seven thousand and six hundred: and they shall be the last to come forth with their garments. 32. This is the sum of the children of Israel, according to their fathers' houses, and according to their camps, with their armies, six hundred thousand and three thousand five hundred and fifty. 33. But the Levites were not numbered in the sum of the children of Israel, as the LORD commanded Moses. 34. And the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, and encamped under their coats, and went forth every man after his kindred after the house of their fathers. (Numbers) Chapter 3 Counting of the Levites and their office. The ransom of the firstborn. 1. This is the generation of Aaron and Moses, in the days when the LORD spake unto Moses in mount Sinai. 2. And these are the names of the sons of Aaron: Nadab the firstborn, and after him Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. 3. These are the names of the sons of Aaron, which were anointed priests, and had their hands filled for the priesthood. 4. But Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD in the wilderness of Sinai; and they had no sons. And Eleazar and Ithamar kept the priest's office under Aaron their father. 5. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 6. Bring the tribe of Levi, and set them before Aaron the priest, to minister unto him. 7. And his guard, and the guard of all the congregation, shall wait before the tabernacle of the congregation, and minister in the service of the tabernacle; 8. And wait all the vessels of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the children of Israel, to minister in the service of the tabernacle. 9. And thou shalt assign the Levites unto Aaron and to his sons for a present from the children of Israel. 10. And Aaron and his sons shalt thou set to keep their priesthood. Wherever a stranger comes, he shall die. 11. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 12. Behold, I have taken the Levites from among the children of Israel for all the firstborn that break the mother among the children of Israel: so the Levites shall be mine. 13. For the firstborn are mine, from the time that I smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt; and I sanctified unto myself all the firstborn in Israel, from man to beast, that they should be mine, I the LORD. 14. And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, saying: 15. Number the sons of Levi according to their fathers' houses, and according to their families, every male of a month old and upward. 16. So Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he commanded. 17. And these were the sons of Levi by name: Gerson, Kahath, Merari. 18. And the names of the sons of Gershon in their generations were: Libni and Shimei. 19. And the sons of Kohath in their generations were: Amram, Jezehar, Hebron and Uzziel. 20. The children of Merari in their generations were: Maheli and Musi. These are the families of Levi after the house of their fathers. 21. These are the families of Gershon: the Libnites and the Simites. 22. The sum of the number of them was seven thousand and five hundred, every male of a month old and upward. 23. And the same family of the Gershonites shall pitch behind the tabernacle toward the west. 24. Let Eliasaph the son of Lael be their chief. 25. And they shall wait upon the tabernacle of the congregation, even upon the tabernacle, and upon the tabernacle, and upon the covering thereof, and upon the covering of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, 26. And the covering of the court, and the covering of the door of the court, which is about the tabernacle, and about the altar, and the cords thereof, and all that pertaineth unto the service thereof. 27. These are the families of Kohath: the Amramites, the Jezeharites, the Hebronites, and the Usielites, 28. And the males, of the age of one month and upward, numbering eight thousand and six hundred, that waited on the guard of the sanctuary. 29. And they shall pitch by the side of the tabernacle toward the south. 30. And let their chief be Elizaphan the son of Uzziel. 31. And they shall keep the ark, and the table, and the candlestick, and the altar, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, whereon they minister, and the cloth, and all that pertaineth unto the service thereof. 32. But the chief of all the chief of the Levites shall be Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest over them that are appointed to keep the charge of the sanctuary. 33. These are the families of Merari: the Mahelites and the Musites, 34. Which were in number six thousand and two hundred, every male of the age of a month and upward. 35. And Zuriel the son of Abihail shall be their captain. And they shall pitch by the side of the tabernacle northward. 36. And their charge shall be to keep the boards, and the bars, and the pillars, and the feet of the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof, and all the service thereof, 37. And the pillars round about the court with the feet, and the nails, and the cords. 38. And before the tabernacle, and before the tent of the congregation toward the east, Moses, and Aaron, and his sons, shall encamp, to keep the sanctuary, and the children of Israel. And if a stranger come hither, he shall die, 39. All the Levites that were numbered of Moses and Aaron by their families, according to the word of the LORD, even all the males, of the age of one month and upward, were twenty and two thousand. 40. And the LORD said unto Moses, Number every firstborn male of the children of Israel, from a month old and upward, and take the number of their names. 41. And thou shalt set apart the Levites unto me the LORD for all the firstborn of the children of Israel, and the cattle of the Levites for all the firstborn of the cattle of the children of Israel, 42. And Moses numbered all the firstborn of the children of Israel, as the LORD commanded him; 43. And the number of the names of all the firstborn that were male, of the age of one month and upward, was found in the sum of them twenty and two thousand two hundred and threescore and three. 44. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 45. Take the Levites for all the firstborn among the children of Israel, and the cattle of the Levites for their cattle; that the Levites may be mine, the LORD'S. 46. But the ransom of the two hundred and seventy and three overlength firstborn of the children of Israel above the Levites' number 47. You shall take five shekels from head to head, according to the shekel of the sanctuary (twenty gerahs is a shekel), 48. And thou shalt give the same money that is above their number unto Aaron and to his sons. 49. And Moses took the ransom, which was above the number of the Levites, 50. Of the firstborn of the children of Israel, a thousand three hundred and threescore and five shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, 51. And gave it unto Aaron and to his sons according to the word of the LORD, as the LORD commanded Moses. (Numbers) Chapter 4 Special office administration and number of Levites. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 2. Take the summa of the sons of Kohath out of the sons of Levi, according to their families, and according to their fathers' houses, 3. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, all that are fit for the army, to do the work of the tabernacle of the congregation. 4. And this shall be the service of the children of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation, which is the most holy: 5. And it shall come to pass, when the host is come up, that Aaron and his sons shall go in, and take down the vail, and wrap the ark of the testimony in it; 6. and on it do the blanket of badger skins and on top of it spread a whole yellow dekke and put its rods to it; 7. And over the show-table also spread a yellow cover, and put therein the bowls, and the spoons, and the basons, and the pitchers, to pour out, and to pour in. And the daily bread shall lie therewith. 8. And they shall spread over it a covering of scarlet, and cover it with a covering of badgers' skins, and put his staves thereon. 9. And they shall take a yellow cover, and wrap therein the candlestick of light, and the lamps thereof, with their snuffers, and their cups, and all the vessels of oil that pertain unto the ministry. 10. And they shall put a covering of badgers' skins about all these, and put them upon staves. 11. And they shall spread a yellow covering over the golden altar, and cover it with a covering of badgers' skins, and put the staves thereof. 12. And they shall take all the vessels that they make in the sanctuary, and put yellow coverings over them, and cover them with a covering of badgers' skins, and put them upon poles. 13. They shall also sweep the ashes from off the altar, and spread a scarlet covering over them, 14. And they shall put all his vessels thereon, to set them upon it: And they shall spread over it a covering of badgers' skins, and put his staves thereon. 15. And it shall come to pass, when Aaron and his sons have made an end, and have covered the sanctuary, and all the vessels thereof, when the host riseth up, that the children of Kohath shall go in to bear it, and shall not touch the sanctuary, lest they die. These are the burdens of the children of Kohath upon the tabernacle of the congregation. 16. And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall have the charge of the oil for light, and of the spices for incense, and of the continual meat offering, and of the anointing oil; and he shall appoint all the tabernacle, and all that is therein, in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof. 17. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 18. Ye shall not suffer the tribe of the tribe of the Kohathites to perish among the Levites; 19. But this shall ye do unto them, that they live, and die not, where they touch the most holy things: Aaron and his sons shall go in, and set every man his charge and his burden. 20. And they shall not go in to see the sanctuary uncovered, lest they die. 21. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 22. Take the summa of the children of Gershon also according to their fathers' house, and. Sex, 23. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, and ordain them all that are able for the host, that they may minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. 24. And this shall be the office of the family of the Gershonites, to create and to bear: 25. And they shall bear the carpets of the tabernacle, and of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the covering thereof, and the covering of badgers' skins that is above, and the covering of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 26. And the cloaks of the court, and the covering of the door of the gate of the court, which is round about the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords, and all the vessels of their service, and all that pertaineth unto their service. 27. According to the word of Aaron and his sons shall all the service of the children of Gershon be, all that they shall bear, and all that they shall do: and ye shall see that they bear all their burden. 28. This shall be the service of the family of the children of the Gershonites in the tabernacle of the congregation: and their guard shall be under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest. 29. The children of Meran also shalt thou set in order according to their families and their fathers, 30. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, all that are fit for the army, to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. 31. And upon this burden shall they wait after all their service in the tabernacle of the congregation, to bear the boards of the tabernacle, and the bars, and the pillars, and the feet, 32. And the pillars of the court round about, and the feet, and the nails, and the cords, with all the instruments thereof, according to all their service: every man shall ye appoint to keep his part of the burden of the instruments. 33. This is the service of the families of the children of Meran, all that they shall make in the tabernacle of the congregation under the hand of Ithamar the priest, Aaron's son. 34. And Moses and Aaron, and the captains of the congregation, numbered the children of the Kohathites according to their families, and according to their fathers' houses, 35. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, all that were fit for the army to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. 36. And the sum was two thousand seven hundred and fifty: 37. This is the sum of the families of the Kohathites, all of whom were in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the word of the LORD by Moses. 38. And the sons of Gershon were numbered in their families, and in their fathers' houses, 39. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, all that were fit for the army, to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. 40. And the sum was two thousand six hundred and thirty. 41. This is the sum of the families of the children of Gershon, all of whom were in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the word of the LORD. 42. And the children of Meran were numbered according to their families, and according to their fathers' houses, 43. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, all that were fit for the army, to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. 44. And the sum was three thousand and two hundred. 45. This is the sum of the families of the children of Meran, which Moses and Aaron numbered according to the word of the LORD by Moses. 46. The sum of all the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron and the captains of Israel numbered according to their families and their fathers' houses, 47. From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, all that came in to work, every man his office, and to bear the burden of the tabernacle of the congregation, 48. Was eight thousand five hundred and eighty, 49. Who were numbered according to the word of the LORD by Moses, every man according to his service, and according to his burden, as the LORD commanded Moses. (Numbers) Chapter 5 Purification of the camp. Atonement and sacrifice of zeal. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Command the children of Israel, that they put out of the camp every leper, and every one that hath the issue of pus, and that is defiled in the dead. 3. Both man and wife shall put them out of the camp, that they defile not their camps, where I dwell among them. 4. And the children of Israel did so, and brought them forth without the camp, as the LORD spake unto Moses. 5. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 6. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: If a man or woman commit any sin against a man, and sin against the LORD, the soul hath iniquity upon it; 7. And they shall confess their sin which they have committed, and shall make reconciliation for their trespass with the principal sum, and shall add unto it the fifth part, and give it unto him for whom they trespassed. 8. And if there be none to whom it be paid, then it shall be given unto the LORD for the priest over the ram of atonement, to make an atonement for him. 9. Likewise shall all the heave of all that the children of Israel sanctify and offer unto the priest be. 10. And whoso sanctifieth any thing shall be his: and whoso giveth any thing to the priest shall be his: 11. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 12. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: If any man's wife shall go astray, and sin against him, 13. And if any man put her to sleep in the flesh, and it were hid from the man's eyes, and it were hid that she was defiled, he cannot persuade her, because she is not comprehended within, 14. And the spirit of jealousy kindleth him to be jealous for his wife, whether she be unclean, or whether she be not unclean: 15. Then he shall bring them unto the priest, and offer a sacrifice over them, the tenth of an ephah of barley flour; and he shall not pour oil upon it, neither put incense thereon. For it is a sacrifice of jealousy, and an offering for iniquity. 16. Then shall the priest bring them, and set them before the LORD, 17. And take the holy water in an earthen vessel, and put dust from the floor of the tabernacle into the water, 18. And he shall set the woman before the LORD, and uncover her head, and put the trespass offering, which is a sacrifice of jealousy, upon her hand. And the priest shall have bitter accursed water in his hand; 19. And he shall adjure the woman, and say unto her, If no man have laid thee to sleep, and if thou hast not gone astray from thy husband, to defile thyself, these bitter cursed waters shall not hurt thee. 20. But where thou hast gone astray from thy husband, that thou art unclean, and any man hath slept with thee beside thy husband, 21. Then the priest shall adjure the woman with such a curse, and shall say unto her, The LORD make thee a curse and an oath among thy people, that the LORD may make thy thigh to fail, and thy belly to swell. 22. Now therefore let the accursed water enter into thy womb, that thy belly may swell, and thy thigh faint. And the woman shall say, Amen, amen. 23. So the priest shall write these curses upon a piece of paper, and wash them away with bitter water; 24. And he shall give the woman to drink of the bitter accursed water. And when the accursed bitter water is gone into her, 25. And the priest shall take of their hand the jealousy offering, and shall wave it for a meat offering before the LORD, and offer it upon the altar, even it: 26. And he shall take an handful of the meat offering for her sin offering, and burn it upon the altar, and afterward he shall give the woman water to drink. 27. And when she hath drunk the water, if she be unclean, and have sinned against her husband, then the accursed water shall enter into her, and be bitter unto her, and her belly shall swell, and her thigh shall fail: and the woman shall be a curse among her people. 28. But if such a woman be not defiled, but clean, it shall not hurt her to conceive. 29. This is the law of zeal, when a woman departeth from her husband, and is defiled, 10. Or if a man's zeal be kindled, and he be jealous for his wife, to set her before the LORD: and the priest shall do all things unto her according to this law. 31. And the man shall be innocent of iniquity: but the woman shall bear her iniquity. (Numbers) Chapter 6 Law of the Nazarene or betrothed. Form to bless the people. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: If any man or woman vow a special vow unto the LORD, to abstain, 3. He shall abstain from wine, and from strong drink; neither shall he drink wine vinegar, or strong drink vinegar; neither shall he drink any thing made of grapes; neither shall he eat fresh grapes, nor dry grapes, 4. So long as his vow continueth: neither shall he eat any thing that is made of the vine, neither kernels nor husks. 5. While the time of his vow continueth, there shall no razor pass over his head, until the time be expired which he hath vowed unto the LORD: for he is holy, and shall let the hair of his head grow free. 6. All the time that he hath vowed unto the LORD, he shall not go unto any dead person. 7. Neither shall he defile himself in the death of his father, or of his mother, or of his brother, or of his sister: for the vow of his God is upon his head. 8. And all the time of his vow he shall be holy unto the LORD. 9. And if any man die suddenly before him, the head of his vow is defiled: therefore he shall give his head in vain in the day of his cleansing, that is, on the seventh day. 10. And on the eighth day he shall bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the priest, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 11. And the priest shall offer the one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering, and make an atonement for him that sinneth against a dead person, and shall sanctify his head that day, 12. To keep the time of his vow unto the LORD. And he shall bring a lamb of the first year for a trespass offering. But the former days shall be for nought, because his vow is defiled. 13. This is the law of the betrothed: when the time of his vow is expired, he shall be brought unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 14. And he shall bring his offering unto the LORD, a lamb of the first year without change for a burnt offering, and a sheep of the first year without change for a sin offering, and a ram without change for a peace offering. 15. And a basket of unleavened cakes of fine flour mingled with oil, and unleavened cakes spread with oil, and their meat offering and their drink offering. 16. And the priest shall bring it before the LORD, and shall make his sin offering and his burnt offering. 17. And he shall offer the ram for a peace offering unto the LORD, with the basket of unleavened bread; and he shall offer his meat offering and his drink offering. 18. And he shall give the head of his vow unto his betrothed at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and he shall take the head of his vow, and cast it upon the fire that is under the sacrifice of peace offerings. 19. And he shall take the boiled kid of the ram, and an unleavened cake out of the basket, and an unleavened cake, and put it upon his hands, after he hath shorn his vows, 20. And he shall weave it before the LORD. This is holy unto the priest, and to the priest's breast, and to the priest's shoulder. After that the betrothed may drink wine. 21. This is the law of the betrothed, who voweth his offering unto the LORD by reason of his vow, beside what he is able; as he hath vowed, so shall he do according to the law of his vow. 22. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 23. Speak unto Aaron and to his sons, saying, Thus shall ye say unto the children of Israel, when ye bless them: 24. May the Lord bless you and keep you. 25. The LORD make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. 26. The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and peace be unto thee. 27. For ye shall put my name upon the children of Israel, that I may bless them. (Numbers) Chapter 7 Sacrifices and gifts of the princes for the dedication of the tabernacle. 1. And when Moses had set up the tabernacle, he anointed it, and sanctified it with all the vessels thereof, and anointed and sanctified the altar with all the vessels thereof, 2. Then the princes of Israel, which were heads of the houses of their fathers, offered sacrifices: for they were chief among the tribes, and were chief among them that were numbered. 3. And they brought their sacrifices before the LORD, six covered chariots, and twelve oxen, a chariot for every two princes, and an ox for every one: and they brought them before the tabernacle. 4. And the LORD said unto Moses: 5. Take it of them, that it may minister in the tabernacle of the congregation, and give it unto the Levites, every man according to his service. 6: And Moses took the chariots and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites. 7. Two chariots and four oxen gave he to the children of Gershon according to their service. 8. And four chariots and eight oxen gave he to the children of Meran according to their service, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest. 9. But unto the children of Kohath he gave nothing: because they had a holy charge upon them, and they bare it upon their shoulders. 10. And the princes offered for the dedication of the altar in the day that it was dedicated, and offered their gifts before the altar. 11. And the LORD said unto Moses, Let every prince bring his offering in his day for the dedication of the altar. 12. On the first day Nahesson the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah, offered his offering. 13. And his offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver dish, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering; 14. And a spoon of gold, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 15. A bullock of the oxen, and a ram, and a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 16. A male goat for a sin offering, 17. And for a peace offering two oxen, and five rams, and five kids of the goats, and five lambs of the first year. This is the offering of Naheshon son of Amminadab. 18. And the next day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, the prince of Issachar, offered sacrifice. 19. His offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering; 20. And a spoon of gold, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 21. A fair one of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 22. A kid of the goats for a sin offering. 23. And for a peace offering two oxen, and five rams, and five kids of the goats, and five lambs of the first year. This is the offering of Nethaneel son of Zuar. 24. And the third day the prince of the children of Zebulun, Eliab the son of Helon. 25. His offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 26. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 27. A bullock out of the oxen, a ram; a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 28. a male goat for a sin offering 29. And for a peace offering two oxen, and five rams, and five kids of the goats, and five lambs of the first year. This is the offering of Eliab son of Helon. 30. On the fourth day the prince of the children of rest, Elizur the son of Setur. 31. And his offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver dish, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 32. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 33. A fair one of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 34. a male goat for a sin offering 35. And for a peace offering two oxen, and five rams, and five rams, and five lambs of the first year. This is the offering of Elisher the son of Shedeur. 36. And on the fifth day the prince of the children of Simeon, Selumiel the son of Zuri-saddai. 37. His offering was a silver bowl, worth an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, worth seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 38. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 39. A bullock with the oxen, and a ram, and a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 40. A male goat for a sin offering. 41. And for a fellowship offering two oxen, five rams, five rams, and five lambs of the first year. This is the offering of Selumiel son of Zuri-saddai. 42. On the sixth day the prince of the children of Gad, Eliasaph the son of Deuel. 43. His offering was a silver bowl, worth an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, worth seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 44. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 45. A bullock of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 46. A kid of the goats for a sin offering. 47. And for a peace offering two oxen, five rams, five kids of the goats, lambs five years old. This is the offering of Eliasaph son of Deguel. 48. On the seventh day the prince of the children of Ephraim, Elishama the son of Ammihud. 49. And his offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, the value of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 50. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 51.. A bullock of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 52. a male goat for a sin offering 53. And for a fellowship offering, two oxen, five rams, five rams, five lambs. This is the offering of Elishama son of Ammihud. 54. And on the eighth day the prince of the children of Manasseh, Gamliel the son of Pedazur. 55. His offering was a silver bowl, worth an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, worth seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 56. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 57. A fair one of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 58. a he-goat for a sin offering 59. And for a fellowship offering, two oxen, five rams, five rams, lambs five years old. This is the offering of Gamliel son of Pedazur. 60. On the ninth day the prince of the children of Benjamin, Abidan the son of Gideoni. 61. His offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 62. a golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 63. a bullock of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 64. a he-goat for a sin offering 65. And for a fellowship offering, two oxen, five rams, five rams, five lambs. This is the offering of Abidan son of Gideoni. 66. On the tenth day the prince of the children of Dan, Ahi-Ezer the son of Ammi-Saddai. 67. His offering was a silver bowl, worth an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver bowl, worth seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 68. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 69. A bullock of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 70. a he-goat for a sin offering 71. And for a fellowship offering, two oxen, five rams, five rams, five lambs of the first year. This is the offering of Ahi-Ezer son of Ammi-Saddai. 72. On the eleventh day the prince of the children of Asher, Pagiel the son of Ochran. 73. And his offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels, and a silver dish, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 74. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 75. a fair one of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 76. a he-goat for a sin offering 77. And for a peace offering, two oxen, five rams, five kids of the goats, lambs five years old. This is the offering of Pagiel son of Ochran. 78. On the twelfth day the prince of the children of Naphtali, Ahira the son of Enan. 79. His offering was a silver bowl, the value of an hundred and thirty shekels; a silver bowl, the value of seventy shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, both full of fine flour mingled with oil, for a meat offering, 80. A golden spoon, worth ten shekels of gold, full of incense, 81. A bullock of the oxen, a ram, a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, 82. A he-goat for a sin offering 83. And for the peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five kids of the goats, lambs five years old. This is the offering of Ahira son of Enan. 84, This is the dedication of the altar at the time that it was dedicated; and the princes of Israel offered these twelve silver bowls, twelve silver dishes, twelve golden spoons, 85. So that every bowl had an hundred and thirty shekels of silver, and every bowl seventy shekels: that the sum of all the silver of the vessel was two thousand and four hundred shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary. 86. And of the twelve spoons of gold full of incense, every one had ten shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary: and the sum of the gold of the spoons was an hundred and twenty shekels. 87. And the sum of the oxen for the burnt offering was twelve bullocks, and twelve rams, and twelve lambs of the first year with their meat offering, and twelve kids of the goats for a sin offering. 88. And the sum of the oxen for the sacrifice of peace offerings was twenty and four bullocks, and threescore rams, and threescore goats, and threescore lambs of the first year. This is the dedication of the altar, when it was consecrated. 89. And it came to pass, when Moses went into the tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, that he heard the voice speaking with him from the mercy seat, which was in the laver of the testimony, between the two cherubims; and from thence it was spoken with him. (Numbers) Chapter 8 Initiation of the Levites. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto Aaron, and say unto him, When thou settest up the lamps, thou shalt set them so that all the seven shall shine before the candlestick. 3. And Aaron did so. And he set the lamps to shine before the candlestick, as the LORD commanded Moses. 4. And the candlestick was of pure gold, both the shaft thereof, and the flowers thereof: according to the vision which the LORD shewed Moses, so made he the candlestick. 5. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 6. Take the Levites from among the children of Israel, and cleanse them. 7. And thus shalt thou do unto them, that thou mayest cleanse them: thou shalt sprinkle water of sin upon them, and shalt shave all their hair clean, and wash their clothes, and they shall be clean. 8. Then they shall take a young bullock, and his meat offering shall be fine flour mingled with oil: and another young bullock shalt thou take for a sin offering, 9. And thou shalt bring the Levites before the tabernacle of the congregation, and gather all the congregation of the children of Israel. 10. And bring the Levites before the LORD: and the children of Israel shall lay their hands upon the Levites. 11. And Aaron shall weave the Levites before the LORD out of the children of Israel, that they may minister in the office of the LORD. 12. And the Levites shall lay their hands upon the head of the bullocks; and one shall be made a sin offering, and the other a burnt offering, unto the LORD, to make an atonement for the Levites. 13. And thou shalt set the Levites before Aaron and his sons, and weave before the LORD. 14. And thou shalt separate them from the children of Israel, that they may be mine. 15. And afterward they shall go in to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. So shalt thou cleanse them, and weave them. 16. For they are my gift from the children of Israel, and I have taken them for all that break their mother, even for the firstborn of all the children. 17. For all the firstborn among the children of Israel are mine, both of man and beast, from the time that I smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, and sanctified them unto me, 18. And he took the Levites for all the firstborn of the children of Israel. 19. And he gave them for a present unto Aaron and to his sons of the children of Israel, to minister in the service of the children of Israel in the tabernacle of the congregation, to make an atonement for the children of Israel; lest there be a plague among the children of Israel, when they came near unto the sanctuary. 20. And Moses and Aaron, and all the congregation of the children of Israel, did with the Levites all things, as the LORD commanded Moses. 21. And the Levites purified themselves, and washed their clothes; and Aaron wove them before the LORD, and made an atonement for them, that they might be clean. 22. And afterward they went in to do their service in the tabernacle of the congregation before Aaron and his sons. As the LORD commanded Moses concerning the Levites, so they did unto them. 23. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 24. This is the due of the Levites: From twenty and five years old and upward they are fit for the host, and for the service of the tabernacle of the congregation. 25. But from the fiftieth year they shall be loosed from the service of the ministry, and shall serve no more, 26. But wait for the service of their brethren in the tabernacle of the congregation: but they shall not minister. So shalt thou do with the Levites, that every man may keep his watch. (Numbers) Chapter 9 Of the Passover; sign to encamp or depart. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai in the second year after they came forth out of the land of Egypt, in the first month, saying: 2. Let the children of Israel keep the passover in his season, 3. on the fourteenth day of this month between evenings; in his time they shall keep it according to all his statutes and judgments. 4. And Moses spake unto the children of Israel to keep the passover. 5. And they kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the first month between the evenings in the wilderness of Sinai: according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did the children of Israel. 6. And there were certain men unclean over a dead man, that they could not keep the passover that day. And they came before Moses and Aaron that day. 7. And they said unto him, We are unclean above a dead man: why should we be less, that we should not bring our offering unto the LORD in his time among the children of Israel? 8. And Moses said unto them: Wait, I will hear what the LORD gives you. 9. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 10. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If any man be unclean over a dead body, or far from you in the field, or among your friends, he shall keep the passover unto the LORD; 11. But yet in the other month, on the fourteenth day between evenings, and he shall eat it beside unleavened bread and salts. 12. And they shall leave no part of it until to morrow, neither shall they break a bone of it: they shall keep it after all the manner of the passover. 13. And whosoever is clean, and is not above the field, and standeth by to keep the passover, his soul shall be cut off from among his people, because he brought not his offering unto the LORD in his season: he shall bear his sin. 14. And if a stranger sojourn among you, he also shall keep the passover unto the LORD, and shall keep it according to the statutes and judgments of the passover. This statute shall be unto you, as unto the stranger, as unto the inhabitant of the land. 15. And the day that the tabernacle was set up, a cloud covered it upon the tabernacle of the testimony: and there was a figure of fire over the tabernacle from even unto the morning. 16. So it was continually, that the cloud covered them, and in the night the form of fire. 17. And when the cloud was lifted up from the tabernacle, the children of Israel departed: and in the place where the cloud abode the children of Israel pitched. 18. According to the word of the LORD went the children of Israel, and according to his word pitched they. As long as the cloud remained upon the tabernacle, they lay still. 19. And when the cloud departed many days upon the tabernacle, the children of Israel waited for the watch of the LORD, and departed not. 20. And it came to pass, when the cloud was upon the tabernacle a number of days, that they encamped according to the word of the LORD, and went according to the word of the LORD. 21. When the cloud was from evening till morning, and was lifted up, then they went: or when it was lifted up by day, or by night, then they also went. 22. And it came to pass, if she tarried in the tabernacle a fortnight, or a month, or so long, that the children of Israel lay down, and went not: and when she arose, they went. 23. For after the mouth of the LORD they lay, and after the mouth of the LORD they went, to wait for the LORD'S tabernacle, according to the word of the LORD by Moses. (Numbers) Chapter 10 Use of the drums. The journeys of the Israelites. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Make thee two trumpets of strong silver, that thou mayest use them to call the congregation, and when the army shall set out. 3. And it shall come to pass, when thou shalt blow with both of them, that all the congregation shall be gathered unto thee at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 4. If a man blow but one ill, then shall the princes and the rulers of the thousands of Israel be gathered unto thee. 5. And it shall come to pass, when ye have sounded the trumpet, that the camps which lie toward the east shall break forth. 6. And when ye have sounded the trumpet the second time, then shall the camps arise that lie toward the south. For when they shall journey, then ye shall sound the trumpet. 7. But when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow evil, and not sound the trumpet. 8. And the sons of Aaron the priests shall blow with the trumpets: and your statute shall be unto your seed for ever. 9. When ye go to battle in your land against your enemies that offend you, then ye shall beat with the trumpets, that ye may be remembered before the LORD your God, and be delivered from your enemies. 10. In like manner, when ye rejoice in your feasts, and in your new moons, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over your peace offerings; and it shall be for a memorial unto you before your God. I am the LORD your God. 11. On the twentieth day of the second month of the second year the cloud was lifted up from the tabernacle of the testimony. 12. And the children of Israel arose, and went out of the wilderness of Sinai: and the cloud abode in the wilderness of Paran. 13. And the first arose after the word of the LORD by Moses. 14. Namely, the band of the camp of the children of Judah went first with their host: and over their host was Nahesson the son of Amminadab. 15. And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethaneel the son of Zuar. 16. And over the host of the tribe of the children of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon. 17. And the tabernacle was taken down, and the children of Gershon and Meran went and carried the tabernacle. 18. And Danakh drew the standard of the camp of Reuben with their host: and over their host was Elizur the son of Sether. 19. And over the host of the tribe of the children of Simeon was Selumiel the son of Zuri-saddai. 20. And Eliasaph the son of Deuel over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad. 21. And the Kohathites also went, and carried the sanctuary: and they set up the tabernacle, until they came after. 22. And afterward the band of the camp of the children of Ephraim went forth with their host: and over their host was Elishama the son of Ammihud. 23. And Gamliel the son of Pedazur over the host of the tribe of the children of Manasseh. 24. And Abidan the son of Gideoni over the host of the tribe of the children of Benjamin. 25. And afterward the band of the camp of the children of Dan went up with their host: and so the camps were all up. And Ahi-Ezer the son of Ammi-saddai was over their host. 26. And Pagiel the son of Ochran over the host of the tribe of the children of Asher. 27. And Ahjrah the son of Enan over the host of the tribe of the children of Naphtali. 28. So the children of Israel went with their host. 29. And Moses said unto Hobab the son of Regeuel his brother in law, of Midian, We go unto the place of which the LORD hath said: I will give it you: now therefore come with us, and we will do the best we can with you: for the LORD hath promised good things unto Israel. 30. And he answered: I will not go with you, but to my own land to my friendship. 31. And he said, Dearly beloved, forsake us not: for thou knowest where we shall pitch in the wilderness, and shalt be our eye. 32. And when thou shalt testify with us, what good thing the LORD doeth unto us, that will we do unto thee. 33. So they departed from the mount of the LORD three days' journey: and the ark of the covenant of the LORD went before them the three days' journey, to shew them where they should rest. 34. And the cloud of the LORD was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp. 35. And when the ark was drawn, Moses said, Arise, O LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered, and let them that hate thee flee before thee. 36. And when she rested, he said, Come again, O LORD, unto the multitude of the thousands of Israel. (Numbers) Chapter 11 The lustful people are punished. 1. And when the people were impatient, they rebelled in the ears of the LORD. And when the LORD heard it, his anger was kindled, and the fire of the LORD was kindled among them, and consumed the uttermost camps. 2. And the people cried unto Moses: and Moses besought the LORD, and the fire ceased. 3. And the name of the place was called Tabeera, because the fire of the LORD was kindled among them. 4. For the common people among them were lascivious, and sat and wept with the children of Israel, saying: Who will give us flesh to eat? We remember the fish which we did eat in Egypt for nought, and the gourds, and the arrows, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic. 6. But now our soul is dim; for our eyes see nothing but man. 7. But it was man as coriander seed, and to look upon as Bedellion. 8. And the people ran to and fro, and gathered it, and beat it with mills, and ground it in mortars, and boiled it in pots, and made it cakes of ashes: and it had a savour like the savour of oil. 9. And when the dew fell upon the camps by night, the man fell upon it. 10. And when Moses heard the people weeping among their families, every man in the door of his tent, the wrath of the LORD was kindled, and Moses was afraid. 11. And Moses said unto the LORD, Why grievest thou thy servant, and why findest not grace in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me? 12. Have I now conceived or born all the people, that thou mayest say unto me, Carry them in thine arms (as a nurse beareth a child) unto the land which thou swarest unto their fathers? 13. Whence shall I take meat, that I may give unto all this people? They weep before me, and say: Give us flesh, that we may eat. 14. I am not able to bear the people all things by myself, for they are too heavy for me. 15. And if thou wilt do so unto me, slay me rather; if I have found other grace in thine eyes, that I see not my evil. 16. And the LORD said unto Moses, Gather me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and the officers thereof, and take them before the tabernacle of the congregation, and set them there before thee, 17. Then will I come down, and speak with thee there, and take of thy spirit that is upon thee, and put it upon them, and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not alone. 18. And thou shalt say unto the people, Sanctify yourselves to morrow, that ye eat flesh. For your weeping is come into the ears of the LORD, which say, Who shall give us flesh to eat, because it was well with us in Egypt? Therefore the LORD will give you flesh to eat, 19. Not one day, nor two, nor five, nor ten, nor twenty days, 20. But for a month, until it go out at your nostrils, and be loathsome unto you, because ye rejected the LORD that is among you, and wept before him, saying, Why came we out of Egypt? 21. And Moses said, Six hundred thousand footmen are he among whom I am, and thou sayest, I will give you flesh, and ye shall eat for a month. 22. Shall sheep and oxen be slain, that there may be enough for them? Or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together, that they may have enough? 23. And the LORD said unto Moses, Is the hand of the LORD shortened? But now shalt thou see whether my words be good unto thee, or not. 24. And Moses went out, and told the people the word of the LORD, and gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle. 25. And the LORD came down in a cloud, and communed with him, and took the spirit that was upon him, and put it upon the seventy oldest men. And when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and ceased not. 26. And there were yet two men left in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them: for they also were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle, and prophesied in the camp. 27. And a lad ran and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad prophesy in the camp. 28. And Joshua the son of Nun answered Moses' servant, whom he had chosen, and said, My lord Moses, forbid them. 29. But Moses said unto him, Art thou the zealot for me? Would to God that all the people of the LORD prophesied, and that the LORD would give his Spirit upon them! 30. So Moses gathered himself to the camp, and the elders of Israel. 31. And the wind went out from the LORD, and sent quails from the sea, and scattered them upon the camp, here for a day's journey, and there for a day's journey round about the camp, two cubits above the earth. 32. And the people arose all that day, and all that night, and all the next day, and gathered quails: and he that gathered least gathered ten homers, and hanged them round about the camp. 33. And while the flesh was yet under their teeth, and before it was up, the wrath of the LORD was kindled against the people, and smote them with a very great plague. 34. Wherefore the name of that place is called the grave of lust, because there they buried the lewd people. 35. And the people went out from the graves of pleasure unto Hazeroth, and dwelt in Hazeroth. (Numbers) Chapter 12 The grumbling Miriam becomes leprous. 1. And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of his wife, the Moor which he had taken, because he had taken a Moor to wife, 2. And said: Doth the LORD speak by Moses only? speaketh he not also through us? And the LORD heard it. 3. But Moses was a very afflicted man above all men upon the earth. 4. And suddenly the LORD said unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out, ye three, unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they went out, all three of them. 5. And the LORD came down in a pillar of cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they went out. 6. And he said, Hear my words. If any of you be a prophet of the LORD, I will make myself known unto him in a vision, or speak unto him in a dream. 7. But not so my servant Moses, who is faithful in all mine house. 8. I speak unto him by word of mouth; and he beholdeth the LORD in his own likeness, and not by words of darkness, nor by parables. Why then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses? 9. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them, and they turned away. 10. And the cloud departed from the tabernacle. And, behold, Miriam was leprous as the snow. And Aaron turned unto Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous, 11. And said unto Moses, Ah, my lord, let not sin remain upon us, that we have done foolishly, and have sinned, 12. That this be not as a dead thing that cometh out of his mother's womb; it hath already eaten up the half of her flesh. 13. And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, O God, heal them. 14. And the LORD said unto Moses, If her father had spit in her face, should not she be ashamed seven days? Let her be shut up out of the camp seven days, and afterward let her be taken up again. 15. So Miriam was shut up out of the camp seven days. And the people departed not again, till Miriam were taken up. Ch. 13. v. 1. Dananch the people departed from Hazeroth, and encamped in the wilderness of Paran. (Numbers) Chapter 13. Of spies of the land of Canaan. 2. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 3. Send out men to search the land of Canaan, which I will give unto the children of Israel, out of every tribe of their fathers a choice man. 4. Moses sent them out of the wilderness of Paran, according to the word of the LORD, all of whom were chief men among the children of Israel. 5. And their names were Shammua the son of Zakur, of the tribe of Reuben; 6. Shaphat the son of Hori, of the tribe of Simeon. 7. Caleb the son of Jephunneh, of the tribe of Judah; 8. Igeal the son of Joseph, of the tribe of Issachar; 9. Hosea the son of Nun, of the tribe of Ephraim; 10. Palti the son of Raphu, of the tribe of Benjamin; 11. Gadiel the son of Sodi, of the tribe of Zebulun; 12. Gaddi the son of Susi, of the tribe of Joseph of Manasseh; 13. Ammiel the son of Gemalli, of the tribe of Dan; 14. Sethur the son of Michael, of the tribe of Asher; 15. Nahebi the son of Vaphsi, of the tribe of Naphtali; 16. Guel the son of Machi, of the tribe of Gad. 17. These are the names of the men whom Moses sent to search out the land. But Hosea the son of Nun, Moses called Joshua. 18. And when they sent Moses to search out the land of Canaan, he said unto them: Go up to the south, and go into the mountains; 19. And consider the land as it is, and the people that dwell therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many; 20. And what manner of country they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what manner of cities they dwell in, whether they dwell in tents, or in fortresses; 21. And what manner of land it is, whether it be fat or lean, and whether there be trees therein, or not. Be of good cheer, and take of the fruits of the land. Now it was just about the time of the first grapes. 22. And they went up, and searched the country from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, where they go to Hamath. 23. And they went up toward the south, and came unto Hebron; where was Ahiman, and Shesai, and Talmai, the children of Enak: but Hebron was seven years built before Zoan in Egypt. 24. And they came unto brook Escol, and cut down there a branch with a bunch of grapes, and carried them two on a stick, and pomegranates and figs. 25. The name of the place is called Brook Eshcol, because of the grapes which the children of Israel cut down there. 26. And they returned, when they had searched the land, after forty days, 27. And they went and came to Moses and Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, into the wilderness of Paran unto Kadesh, and told them again, and all the congregation, how it was, and let them see the fruits of the land. 28. And told them, saying: We are come into the land whither ye sent us, where milk and honey flow within, and this is the fruit thereof; 29. Without much people dwelling therein, and very great and strong cities: and they saw the children of Enak there. 30. And the Amalekites dwell in the south country, and the Hittites, and the Jebusites, and the Amorites, dwell in the mountains: and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and round about Jordan. 31. And Caleb quieted the people against Moses, and said, Let us go up, and possess the land; for we may overtake it. 32. But the men that went up with him said: We are not able to go up against the people, because they are too strong for us. 33. And they made an evil cry among the children of Israel for the land which they had explored, saying: The land, through which we went to explore, eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw therein are men of great length. 34. And we saw giants there, the children of Enak, of the giants: and we were as grasshoppers before our eyes, and so were we before their eyes. (Numbers) Chapter 14 The grumbling people are defeated. 1. And all the congregation rose up, and cried, and the people wept all night. 2. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron: and all the congregation said unto them: Oh that we had died in the land of Egypt, or had died in this wilderness! 3. Doth the LORD bring us into this land, that our wives should fall by the sword, and our children be a prey? Is it not better for us to return to Egypt? 4. And one said unto another: Let us raise up a captain, and go again into Egypt. 5. And Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the congregation of the children of Israel. 6. And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which had also searched the land, rent their clothes. 7. And they said unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, To search the land which we have passed through is very good. 8. If the LORD be gracious unto us, he will bring us into the same land, and give us a land flowing with milk and honey. 9. Fall not away from the LORD, neither be afraid of the people of this land: for we will eat them as bread. Their protection is gone from them: but the LORD is with us. Fear them not. 10. And all the people said that they should be stoned. Then the glory of the LORD appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation unto all the children of Israel. 11. And the LORD said unto Moses, How long will the people blaspheme me, and how long will they not believe on me by all the signs which I have done among them? 12. Then will I smite them with pestilence, and destroy them, and make thee a greater and mightier nation than this. 13. And Moses said unto the LORD, Thus shall the Egyptians hear: for thou hast brought this people out of the midst of them by thy strength. 14. And it shall be said unto the inhabitants of this land, which have heard that thou, O LORD, art among this people, that thou art seen face to face, and thy cloud is upon them, and thou, O LORD, goest before them in a pillar of cloud by day, and in a pillar of fire by night; 15. And if thou shouldest slay this people as a man, the heathen that hear such a cry from thee shall say, saying: 16. The LORD could not bring the people into the land which he sware unto them: therefore he slew them in the wilderness. 17. Now therefore let the power of the LORD be great, as thou hast said, saying: 18. The LORD is patient, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and leaving none unpunished, but visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation. 19. Now therefore, according to thy great mercy, be gracious unto the iniquity of this people, as thou hast graciously forgiven this people out of Egypt unto this day. 20. And the LORD said: I have forgiven, as thou hast said. 21. But as truly as I live, so shall all the earth be filled with the glory of the LORD. 22. For all the men that have seen my glory, and my signs, which I did in Egypt, and in the wilderness, and have tempted me ten times, and have not obeyed my voice, 23. Whose eyes shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any see it; he that blasphemed me. 24. But my servant Caleb, because another spirit is with him, and he hath followed me faithfully, him will I bring into the land whither he came, and his seed shall possess it, 25. And the Amalekites and the Canaanites, which dwell in the valley. Tomorrow turn ye, and go into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea. 26. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 27. How long will this wicked company murmur against me? For I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they have murmured against me. 28. Say therefore unto them, As I live, saith the LORD, I will do unto you as ye have said in mine ears. 29. Your bodies shall perish in this wilderness, and all ye that are numbered twenty years and upward, which have murmured against me, 30. Ye shall not come into the land, whereon I have lifted up mine hand to let you dwell therein, without Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. 31. Your children, of whom ye said, They shall be a spoil; them will I bring in, that they may know the land which ye have rejected. 32. But ye and your bodies shall perish in this wilderness. 33. And your children shall be shepherds in the wilderness forty years, and shall bear your whoredoms, until your bodies be all in the wilderness. 34. According to the number of the forty days wherein ye have searched the land, every day shall be a year, to bear your iniquity forty years, that ye may know what it is, when I take away my hand. 35. I the LORD have said, and I will do it unto all this wicked company, which have rebelled against me. In this wilderness shall they all be, and there shall they die. 36. So all the men which Moses sent to search the land died in the plague before the LORD, and returned, and made all the congregation murmur against it, 37. That they might make a noise unto the land, that it was evil. 38. But Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, remained alive out of the men that went to search the land. 39. And Moses spake these words unto all the children of Israel. Then the people mourned greatly, 40. And they rose up early in the morning, and went up into the height of the mountains, and said: Here are we, and will go up unto the place which the LORD hath spoken of: for we have sinned. 41. And Moses said, Wherefore then do ye transgress the word of the LORD? Ye shall not prosper. 42. Go not up, for the LORD is not among you: lest ye be smitten before your enemies. 43. For the Amalekites and the Canaanites are there before you, and ye shall fall by the sword, because ye have turned from the LORD: and the LORD shall not be with you. 44. But they were unwilling to go up to the top of the mountain. But the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and Moses, came not out of the camp. 45. And the Amalekites and the Canaanites that dwelt in the mount came down, and smote them, and brake them in pieces, even unto Horma. (Numbers) Chapter 15 Desecration of the Sabbath is punished. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When ye come into the land of your habitation, which I will give you, 3. And ye shall offer sacrifices unto the LORD, whether burnt offerings, or sacrifices made by special vows, or freewill offerings, or your feast offerings, that ye may make a sweet savour unto the LORD, either of oxen, or of sheep: 4. Whosoever therefore shall offer his offering unto the LORD shall offer the meat offering, a tithe of fine flour mingled with oil, a fourth part of the hin, 5. And wine for a drink offering, and a fourth part of the hin for a burnt offering, or for a sacrifice of a lamb. 6. And when a ram is offered, thou shalt offer for a meat offering two tenths of fine flour mingled with oil, the third part of the hin, 7. And wine for a drink offering, even the third part of the hin. This thou shalt offer for a sweet savour unto the LORD. 8. But if thou wilt offer an ox for a burnt offering, or for a special vow offering, or for a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, 9. Then shalt thou offer for the bark a meat offering, three tenths of fine flour mingled with oil, half an hin, 10. And wine for a drink offering, even half an hin. This is an offering made unto the LORD for a sweet savour. 11. So shalt thou do with an ox, and with a ram, and with a sheep, and with lambs, and with kids. 12. After this shall be the number of these sacrifices: after this shall be the number of the meat offering and of the drink offering. 13. He that is a native of the land shall do this thing, to offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD for a sweet savour. 14. And if a stranger sojourn with you, or be among you with your friends, and offer an offering made sweet unto the LORD, let him do as they do. 15. Let it be a statute unto all the congregation, both to you, and to the stranger. And it shall be a statute for ever unto your seed, that the stranger shall be as ye are before the LORD. 16. One law, one justice, shall be for you, and for the stranger that sojourneth with you. 17. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 18. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When ye come into the land whither I will bring you, 19. That ye may eat of the bread of the land, ye shall give an heave unto the LORD; 20. For of the firstfruits of your dough ye shall give a cake for a heave; as the heave of the barn, 21. So shall ye also give unto the LORD the firstfruits of your dough for an heave unto your seed. 22. And if ye through ignorance of these commandments do any thing not, which the LORD spake unto Moses, 23. And all that the LORD commanded you by Moses from the day that he began to command your seed; 24. And if the congregation do any thing ignorantly, then all the congregation shall offer a young bullock of the herd for a burnt offering, for a sweet savour unto the LORD, with his meat offering, and his drink offering, as it is meet, and a kid of the goats for a sin offering. 25. And the priest shall make an atonement for all the congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them: for it is ignorance. And they shall bring their offering for a sacrifice unto the LORD, and their sin offering before the LORD for their ignorance. 26. And it shall be forgiven all the congregation of the children of Israel, and also the stranger that sojourneth among you, because all the people are in such ignorance. 27. And if any soul sin through ignorance, he shall bring a she-goat of the first year for a sin offering; 28. And the priest shall make an atonement for such an ignorant soul with the sin offering for ignorance before the LORD, to make an atonement for it: and it shall be forgiven her. 29. And it shall be a law which ye shall do for ignorance, both to the native of the children of Israel, and to the stranger that sojourneth among you. 30. But if any soul do any thing iniquitously, whether he be a native or a stranger, he hath reproached the LORD. Such a soul shall be cut off from among his people. 31. For she hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath forsaken his commandment: she shall be cut off evil: the iniquity is hers. 32. And when the children of Israel were in the wilderness, they found a man reading wood on the sabbath day. 33. And they that found him reading wood brought him to Moses and Aaron, and to all the congregation. 34. And they put him in prison: for it was not plain what should be done with him. 35. And the LORD said unto Moses, The man shall surely die, and all the congregation shall stone him with stones without the camp. 36. And all the congregation brought him out unto the camp, and stoned him to death, as the LORD commanded Moses. 37. And the LORD said unto Moses: 38. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, That they make them lappets upon the tails of their garments among all your seed, and put yellow laces upon the lappets upon the tails. 39. And let the little lappets be for you, that ye may look upon them, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them, that ye judge not according to your heart, nor fornicate according to your eyes. 40. Therefore shall ye remember and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God. 41. I the LORD your God, which brought you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God; I the LORD your God. (Numbers) Chapter 16 God takes vengeance on the rebellious mob. 1. And Korah the son of Jezehar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, with Dathan, and Abiram the sons of Eliab, and On the son of Peleth, the sons of Reuben, 2. They rebelled against Moses, and certain men of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty of the chief of the congregation, captains of the council, and honest men. 3. And they gathered themselves together against Moses and Aaron, and said unto them: Ye do too much! For all the congregation everywhere are holy, and the LORD is among them: wherefore exalt ye yourselves above the congregation of the LORD? 4. And when Moses heard it, he fell on his face. 5. And he said unto Korah, and unto all his company, To morrow the LORD will shew who is his, who is holy, and who shall offer unto him: whom he shall choose, he shall offer unto him. 6. This do: Take ye pans, Korah, and all his company, 7. And put fire therein, and put incense thereon before the LORD in the morning. Whom the LORD shall choose, let him be holy. Ye do too much, O children of Levi. 8. And Moses said unto Korah, Hear now, ye children of Levi. 9. Is it not enough for you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, that ye should sacrifice unto him, to minister in the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to come before the congregation to minister unto them? 10. He hath taken thee and all thy brethren the children of Levi unto himself with thee; and now ye also seek the priesthood. 11. Thou and all thy company make a rebellion against the LORD. What is Aaron, that ye murmur against him? 12. And Moses sent and called Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab. But they said: We will not come up. 13. Is it not enough that thou hast brought us out of the land that floweth with milk and honey, that thou hast slain us in the wilderness? And thou hast to reign over us? 14. How goodly hast thou brought us into a land flowing with milk and honey, and hast given us fields and vineyards for an inheritance! Wilt thou pluck out the eyes of the people also? We will not come up. 15. And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, Turn not unto their meat offering. I have not taken an ass from them, neither have I ever harmed any of them. 16. And he said unto Korah, Thou and all thy company shall be before the LORD to morrow; thou, and they, and Aaron. 17. And take every man his pan, and put incense thereon, and come near before the LORD every man with his pan, even two hundred and fifty pans. 18. And every man took his pan, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and stood at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation; and Moses and Aaron also. 19. And Korah gathered all the congregation together against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. And the glory of the LORD appeared before all the congregation. 20. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 21. Separate yourselves from this congregation, that I may destroy them suddenly. 22. And they fell on their faces, and said: O God, who art a God of the spirits of all flesh, if one man have sinned, wilt thou therefore rage against all the congregation? 23. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 24. Speak unto the congregation, saying, Depart ye round about from the tabernacle of Korah, and from the tabernacle of Dathan, and from the tabernacle of Abiram. 25. And Moses arose, and went to Dathan and Abiram; and the elders of Israel followed him. 26. And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart from the tabernacles of these ungodly men, and touch nothing that is theirs, lest peradventure ye perish in any of their sins. 27. And they went up from the tabernacle of Korah, and Dathan, and Abiram. And Dathan and Abiram came out, and stood at the door of their tents with their wives, and their sons, and their children. 28. And Moses said, By this ye shall know that the LORD hath sent me to do all these works, and not of mine own heart: 29. If they die as all men die, or are afflicted as all men are afflicted, the LORD hath not sent me. 30. But if the LORD make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up with all that they have, that they may go down alive into hell; then ye shall know that these men have blasphemed the LORD. 31. And when he had uttered all these words, the earth rent beneath them; 32. And she opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the people that were with Korah, and all their substance. 33. And they went down alive into hell with all that they had, and the earth covered them, and they perished out of the congregation. 34. And all Israel that were round about them fled from their cry: for they said: Lest the earth swallow us up also! 35. And the fire went out from the LORD, and devoured the two hundred and fifty men that offered the incense. 36. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 37. Speak unto Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest, that he take up the pans out of the fire, and scatter the fire to and fro. 38. For the pans of such sinners are sanctified by their souls, to be beaten into broad plates, and to hang the altar therewith: for they are offered before the LORD, and sanctified, and shall be for a sign unto the children of Israel. 39. And Eleazar the priest took the brasen pans which the burnt offering had offered, and smote them into plates to hang upon the altar, 40. In remembrance of the children of Israel, lest any stranger come near, which is not of the seed of Aaron, to offer incense before the LORD, lest he be like Korah and his band, as the LORD spake unto him by the hand of Moses. 41. And the next morning all the congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron, saying: Ye have killed the LORD'S people. 42. And when the congregation was gathered together against Moses and Aaron, they turned unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD appeared. 43. And Moses and Aaron went in unto the tabernacle of the congregation. 44. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 45. Arise out of this congregation, and I will destroy them suddenly. And they fell on their faces. 46. And Moses said unto Aaron, Take the pan, and put fire therein from the altar, and put incense thereon, and go in haste unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for the fury is gone out from the LORD, and the plague is begun. 47. And Aaron took as Moses had said unto him, and ran into the midst of the congregation, (and, behold, the plague was begun among the people,) and burned incense, and made an atonement for the people. 48. And stood between the dead and the living. And the plague was stayed. 49. And of them that died in the plague there were fourteen thousand and seven hundred, beside them that died with Korah. 50. And Aaron came again unto Moses unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the plague was stayed. (Numbers) Chapter 17 Aaron's priesthood is confirmed by the greening rod. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Speak unto the children of Israel, and take of them twelve staves, of every ruler of his father's house one, and write every man's name upon his stave. 3. But the name of Aaron shalt thou write upon the rod of Levi. For there shall be a rod for the head of every house of their fathers. 4. And put them in the tabernacle of the congregation before the testimony, when I testify unto you. 5. And whomsoever I shall choose, the rod thereof shall be green, to silence the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against you. 6. And Moses spake unto the children of Israel; and all their princes gave him twelve staves, every prince a stave, after the house of their fathers: and the stave of Aaron was also among their staves. 7. And Moses laid the staves before the LORD in the tabernacle of the testimony. 8. And it came to pass in the morning, when Moses went into the tabernacle of the testimony, that he found the rod of Aaron the house of Levi green, and the blossom sprung up, and bearing almonds. 9. And Moses brought forth all the staves of the LORD before all the children of Israel, that they might see them: and every man took his stave. 10. And the LORD said unto Moses, Bring Aaron's rod again before the testimony, that it may be kept for a sign unto the disobedient children, that their murmuring may cease from me, that they die not. 11. Moses did as the LORD commanded him. 12. And the children of Israel said unto Moses, Behold, we perish, and perish: we are all destroyed, and perish. 13. He that cometh nigh unto the tabernacle of the LORD dieth. Shall we perish? (Numbers) Chapter 18 Office and maintenance of the priests and Levites. 1. And the LORD said unto Aaron, Thou and thy sons, and thy father's house with thee, shall bear the iniquity of the sanctuary: and thou and thy sons with thee shall bear the iniquity of your priesthood. 2. But thy brethren of the tribe of Levi thy father shalt thou take unto thee, to be with thee, and to minister unto thee: and thou and thy sons with thee before the tabernacle of the testimony. 3. And they shall wait upon thy service, and upon the service of all the tabernacle. But they shall not come near unto the vessels of the sanctuary, nor near unto the altar, lest both they and ye die, 4. But they shall be with thee, to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation in all the service of the tabernacle. And no stranger shall join himself unto you. 5. Now therefore wait for the service of the sanctuary, and for the service of the altar, that there be no more fierceness upon the children of Israel. 6. For, behold, I have taken your brethren the Levites from among the children of Israel, and have given them unto you for a present unto the LORD, to minister in the tabernacle of the congregation. 7. But thou, and thy sons with thee, shall keep your priesthood, to minister in all the business of the altar, and within the vail: for your priesthood I give you for a ministry, a gift. If a stranger comes here, he shall die. 8. And the LORD said unto Aaron, Behold, I have given thee my heave offerings of all that the children of Israel sanctify, for thy priestly office, and unto thy sons for a perpetual statute. 9. This shalt thou have of the most holy things, which they offer: All their offerings, with all their meat offering, and with all their sin offering, and with all their trespass offering, which they give unto me, the -shall be the most holy unto thee, and to thy sons. 10. In the most holy place shalt thou eat it. That which is male shall eat thereof: for it shall be holy unto thee. 11. I have also given the heave offering of their offering of all the wave offerings of the children of Israel unto thee, and to thy sons, and to thy daughters, with thee for a perpetual statute: he that is clean in thine house shall eat thereof. 12. All the best oil, and all the best wine, and the best corn of their firstfruits, which they give unto the LORD, have I given thee. 13. The first fruit of all that is in their land, which they bring unto the LORD, shall be thine: he that is clean in thine house shall eat thereof. 14. All that is bound in Israel shall be thine. 15. All that his mother breaketh of all flesh, which they bring unto the LORD, whether it be man or beast, shall be thine: but let the first fruit of man be loosed, and let the first fruit of unclean beast also be loosed. 16. And they shall redeem it when it is a month old: and thou shalt redeem it for money, for five shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs. 17. But the firstfruits of an ox, or of a lamb, or of a goat, shalt thou not redeem: for they are holy: their blood shalt thou sprinkle upon the altar, and their fat shalt thou burn for an offering of a sweet savour unto the LORD. 18. Their flesh shall be thine, even as the wave breast and the right shoulder are thine. 19. All the heave offerings, which the children of Israel sanctify unto the LORD, have I given thee, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and thee, for a perpetual statute. This shall be an everlasting covenant before the LORD, to thee, and to thy seed with thee. 20. And the LORD said unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no possession in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: for I am thy part, and thine inheritance among the children of Israel. 21. And unto the children of Levi have I given all the tithes of Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they do unto me in the tabernacle of the congregation, 22. That the children of Israel come not near unto the tabernacle of the congregation, to bring sin upon themselves, and to die; 23. But the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they shall bear the iniquity thereof for a perpetual statute among your seed. And they shall have no inheritance among the children of Israel. 24. For the tithes of the children of Israel, which they give unto the LORD, have I given unto the Levites for an inheritance: therefore have I said unto them, that they should have no inheritance among the children of Israel. 25. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 26. Speak unto the Levites, and say unto them: When ye take the tenth of the children of Israel, which I have given you of them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer of it a heave offering unto the LORD, a tenth of the tenth. 27. And ye shall regard your heave offering as the grain out of the barn, and the wine out of the winepress. 28. And ye also shall give the heave offering unto the LORD of all your tithes, which ye take of the children of Israel, to give the heave offering of the LORD unto Aaron the priest. 29. Of all that is given unto you ye shall offer of every heave offering unto the LORD, of all that is sanctified of it. 30. And say unto them: If ye therefore gather the best thereof, it shall be counted unto the Levites as the revenue of the barn, and as the revenue of the winepress. 31. And ye shall eat it in every place, ye and your children: for it is your reward for your service in the tabernacle of the congregation. 32. So ye shall not sin in it, if ye take the best part of it; neither shall ye profane the holy things of the children of Israel, nor die. (Numbers) Chapter 19 Of the reddish cow and the blasting water. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying: 2. This manner shall be a law, which the LORD commanded, saying, Tell the children of Israel, that they bring unto thee a red heifer without change, wherein is no blemish, and upon which no yoke hath ever come. 3. And give them unto Eleazar the priest, and he shall bring them forth before the camp, and slay them there before him: 4. And Eleazar the priest shall take the blood of them with his finger, and sprinkle it over against the tabernacle of the congregation seven times, 5. And let the heifer be burned before him, both her hide and her flesh, and her blood with her dung. 6. And the priest shall take cedar wood, and hyssop, and the wool of the scarlet, and cast them upon the heifer that burneth, 7. And he shall wash his clothes, and bathe his body in water, and go into the camp, and be unclean until the even. 8. And he that burneth them shall wash his clothes in water, and bathe his body in water, and be unclean until the even. 9. And a clean man shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and cast them out of the camp into a clean place, and there they shall be reserved for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of sprinkling: for it is a sin offering. 10. And he that gathereth up the ashes of the heifer shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even. This shall be a statute for ever unto the children of Israel, and to the strangers that sojourn among you. 11. Whosoever therefore toucheth any dead person shall be unclean seven days. 12. He shall hereby make himself clean on the third day, and on the seventh day, and shall be clean: and if he make himself clean not on the third day, and on the seventh day, he shall not be clean. 13. And if any man touch any dead person, and would not be cleansed, he defileth the tabernacle of the LORD: and that soul shall be cut off from Israel. Because the water of sprinkling is not sprinkled on him, he is unclean until he is cleansed by it. 14. This is the law, when a man dieth in the tabernacle: He that prayeth in the tabernacle; and all that is in the tabernacle shall be unclean seven days. 15. And every open vessel that hath no cover, nor ribbon, is unclean. 16. And whosoever toucheth in the field a man slain with the sword, or a dead man, or a man's bone, or a grave, shall be unclean seven days. 17. They shall therefore take for the unclean person the ashes of this burnt sin offering, and put running water upon them in a vessel. 18. And a clean man shall take hyssop, and dip it in water, and sprinkle it upon the tabernacle, and upon all the vessels, and upon all the souls that are therein; even upon him that hath touched the bones of the dead, or the slain, or the dead, or the grave. 19. And the clean person shall sprinkle the unclean on the third day, and on the seventh day shall he sprinkle him, and on the seventh day shall he cleanse him: and he shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be clean at even. 20. And whosoever shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, his soul shall be cut off from among the congregation: for he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD, and hath not sprinkled sprinkling water upon him: therefore is he unclean. 21. And this shall be a perpetual statute unto them. And he that hath sprinkled with the water of separation shall wash his clothes. And whosoever toucheth the water of sprinkling shall be unclean until the even. 22. And all that he toucheth shall be unclean: and whatsoever soul he toucheth shall be unclean until the even. (Numbers) Chapter 20 Water from the rock. Miriam and Aaron die. 1. And the children of Israel came with all the congregation into the wilderness of Zin in the first month: and the people lay in Kadesh. And Miriam died there, and was buried there. 2. And the congregation had no water, and gathered themselves together against Moses and Aaron. 3. And the people disputed with Moses, and said: Oh that we had perished, when our brethren perished before the LORD! 4. Why have ye brought the congregation of the LORD into this wilderness, that we should die here with our cattle? 5. And why have ye brought us out of Egypt into this evil place, where there is no sowing, where there are neither figs, nor vines, nor pomegranates, and there is no water to drink? 6. And Moses and Aaron went from the congregation unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and fell on their faces: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto them. 7. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 8. Take the rod, and gather the congregation together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give them water. So shalt thou bring them water out of the rock, and water the congregation, and their cattle. 9. And Moses took the rod before the LORD, as he commanded him. 10. And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and said unto them: Hear, ye rebellious, shall we also bring you water out of this rock? 11. And Moses lifted up his hand, and smote the rock twice with the rod. And there came out much water, and the congregation drank, and their cattle. 12. And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed not on me, to sanctify me before the children of Israel, ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I will give them. 13. This is the water of reproach, whereof the children of Israel disputed with the LORD, and he was sanctified in them. 14. And Moses sent word from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, saying, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the trouble that hath come upon us; 15. Because our fathers went down into Egypt, and we dwelt in Egypt a long time, and the Egyptians dealt evil with us and with our fathers; 16. And we cried unto the LORD, and he heard our voice, and sent an angel, and brought us out of Egypt. And, behold, we are in Kadesh, in the city of thy borders. 17. Let us pass through thy land. We will not pass through the fields, nor through the vineyards, neither will we drink water out of the wells: we will go by the way of the land, turning neither to the right hand nor to the left, until we come through thy border. 18. And the Edomites said unto them: Thou shalt not pass through me, or I will come against thee with the sword. 19. And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go by the way of the highway, and if we drink of thy water, we and our cattle, we will pay for it: we will go by nothing, but by foot. 20. And he said, Thou shalt not pass through. And the Edomites went out to meet them with a mighty people and a strong hand. 21. So the Edomites refused to grant Israel to pass through their border. And Israel departed from them. 22. And the children of Israel departed from Kadesh, and came with all the congregation to Hor by the mountains. 23. And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron in Hor by the mountains of the border of the land of Edom, saying: 24. Let Aaron be gathered unto his people: for he shall not come into the land which I have given unto the children of Israel, because ye have disobeyed my mouth at the water of the Hader. 25. And take Aaron and Eleazar his son, and bring them unto Hor by the mountains. 26. And Aaron shall put off his garments, and put them on Eleazar his son. And Aaron shall gather himself there, and die. 27. And Moses did as the LORD commanded him, and went up to Hor in the mount before all the congregation. 28. And Moses stripped Aaron of his garments, and put them on Eleazar his son. And Aaron died there on the top of the mountain. And Moses and Eleazar came down from the mount. 29. And when all the congregation saw that Aaron was gone, they mourned for him thirty days, all the house of Israel. (Numbers) Chapter 21 The bite of fiery serpents healed after seeing the brazen serpent. 1. And when the Canaanite king Arad, which dwelt southward, heard that Israel was come in by the way of the spies, he fought against Israel, and carried away some captives. 2. And Israel vowed a vow unto the LORD, saying, If thou wilt deliver this people into mine hand, I will utterly destroy their cities. 3. And the LORD hearkened unto the voice of Israel, and delivered up the Canaanites, and utterly destroyed them and their cities, and called the name of the place Horma. 4. And they departed from Hor by the mountains, by the way of the Red sea, to go about the land of Edom. And the people were sore distressed in the way. 5. And he spake against God, and against Moses, saying, Why hast thou brought us up out of Egypt, that we should die in the wilderness? For there is neither bread nor water here, and our souls are disgusted with this meagre meat. 6. And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that a great multitude died in Israel. 7. And they came unto Moses, and said: We have sinned in that we have spoken against the LORD, and against thee. Ask the LORD to take away the serpents from us. Moses asked for the people. 8. And the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a serpent of brass, and set it up for a sign: whosoever is bitten, and beholdeth it, he shall live. 9. And Moses made a serpent of brass, and set it up for a sign: and if a serpent bit any man, he looked upon the serpent of brass, and lived. 10. And the children of Israel went out, and pitched in Oboth. 11. And they departed from Oboth, and pitched in Ijim, by mount Abarim, in the wilderness over against Moab, toward the rising of the sun. 12. And they departed thence, and pitched by the brook Sared. 13. And they removed from thence, and pitched on this side Arnon, which is in the wilderness, and cometh out from the border of the Amorites. For Arnon is the border of Moab, between Moab and the Amorites. 14. Therefore the book speaketh of the strife of the LORD: the Vaheb in Supha, and the brooks of the Arnon. 15. And the fountain of the rivers, which reacheth unto the city of Ar, and is the border of Moab. 16. And from thence they went unto the well. This is the well, whereof the LORD said unto Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water. 17. And Israel sang this song, and sang round about the well: 18. This is the well which the princes have digged: the nobles of the people have digged it by the teacher and by their staffs. And from this wilderness they went to Mathana; 19. And from Mathaniah to Nahaliel; and from Nahaliel to Bamoth; 20. And from Bamoth unto the valley that lieth in the field of Moab, unto the high mountain Pisgah, which looketh toward the wilderness. 21. And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying: 22. Let me pass through thy land: we will not go into the fields, nor into the vineyards, neither will we drink of the water of the well: we will go by the way of the land, until we come through thy border. 23. But Sihon would not suffer the children of Israel to pass through his border, but gathered all his people together, and went out against Israel into the wilderness: and when he was come to Jahaz, he fought against Israel. 24. And Israel smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land from Arnon even unto Jabbok, and unto the children of Ammon: for the borders of the children of Ammon were fixed. 25. So Israel took all these cities, and dwelt in all the cities of the Amorites, in Heshbon, and in all their daughters. 26. For Heshbon the city was Sihon king of the Amorites: and he had fought before with the king of Moab, and had taken all his land unto him, even unto Arnon. 27. Therefore they say in the proverb, Come to Heshbon, that they may build and establish the city of Sihon; 28. For fire is come out of Heshbon, a flame from the city of Sihon, which hath devoured Ar the Moabite, and the inhabitants of Arnon the high place. 29. Woe unto thee, Moab, for the people of Kamos are lost: they have put their sons to flight, and have carried away their daughters captive to Sihon king of the Amorites. 30. Her glory is destroyed from Heshbon unto Dibon; she is destroyed unto Nophah, which goeth unto Medbah. 31. So Israel dwelt in the land of the Amorites. 32. And Moses sent out spies unto Jaesher; and they took their daughters, and took the Amorites that were within; 33. And they turned, and went up by the way of Bashan. And Og king of Bashan went out to meet them, he and all his people, to fight in Edrei. 34. And the LORD said unto Moses, Fear him not: for I have delivered him into thine hand, and the land, and the people; and thou shalt do unto him as thou didst unto Sihon king of the Amorites, which dwelt at Heshbon. 35. And they smote him, and his sons, and all his people, until there was none left: and they possessed the land. Ch. 22. v. 1. After this the children of Israel went and encamped in the plains of Moab, on the other side Jordan, against Jericho. (Numbers) Chapter 22 Balaam shall curse the Israelites. His donkey talks. 2. And Balak the son of Zipor saw all that Israel had done unto the Amorites, 3. And the Moabites feared greatly because of the greatness of the people: and the Moabites were afraid of the children of Israel, 4. And they said unto the elders of the Midianites, Now shall this company break up that which is round about us, as an ox breaketh up herbage in the field. And Balak the son of Zipor was king of Moab at that time. 5. And he sent messengers unto Balaam the son of Beor unto Pethor, which dwelt by the river in the land of the children of his people, to demand of him, saying, Behold, a nation is come up out of Egypt, which covereth the face of the earth, and lieth against me. 6. Come now therefore, and curse me the people: for they are too mighty for me, if I smite them, and drive them out of the land: for I know that whom thou blessest is blessed, and whom thou cursest is cursed. 7. And the elders of Moab went with the elders of Midian, and had the reward of divination in their hands: and they came in unto Balaam, and told him the words of Balak. 8. And he said unto them: Stay here overnight, and I will tell you again what the LORD will tell me. So the princes of Moab abode with Balaam. 9. And God came to Balaam, and said, Who are the people that are with thee? 10. And Balaam said unto God, Balak the son of Zipor king of Moab hath sent unto me: 11. Behold, a nation is come out of Egypt, and covereth the face of the earth: now therefore come and curse them, that I may fight with them, and drive them out. 12. And God said unto Balaam, Go not with them; neither curse the people: for they are blessed. 13. And Balaam rose up in the morning, and said unto the princes of Balak, Go to your own land: for the LORD will not suffer me to go with you. 14. And the princes of Moab arose, and came to Balak, and said: Balaam refuseth to go with us. 15. Then Balak sent greater and more glorious princes than these. 16. And they came to Balaam, and said unto him, Thus saith Balak the son of Zipor unto thee, My son, forbear not to come unto me; 17. For I will highly honour thee, and what thou sayest unto me I will do. Dear one, come and curse me to this people! 18. And Balaam answered and said unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, yet could I not pass over the word of the LORD my God, to do small things or great. 19. Now therefore tarry ye here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me next. 20. And God came to Balaam by night, and said unto him, If the men be come to call thee, arise, and go with them: but whatsoever I shall say unto thee, that thou shalt do. 21. And Balaam arose in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab. 22. But the wrath of God was kindled, and he went. And the angel of the LORD stood in the way to oppose him. And he rode upon his ass, and two lads were with him. 23. And the ass saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and a mere sword in his hand. And the ass turned out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote her, that she should go into the way. 24. And the angel of the LORD stood in the way of the vineyards, where were walls on either side. 25. And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she pressed against the wall, and fastened Balaam's foot against the wall; and he smote her yet more. 26. And the angel of the LORD went on, and stood in a strait place, where there was no turning to the right hand or to the left. 27. And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she fell upon her knees under Balaam. And the wrath of Balaam was kindled, and he smote the ass with the staff. 28. And the LORD opened the ass's mouth, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times? 29. And Balaam said unto the ass, Thou mockest me. Oh that I had a sword in my hand, I would slay thee! 30. And the ass said unto Balaam, Am I not thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden in thy days unto this day? And have I ever cared to do so unto thee? And he said, No. 31. And the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and a mere sword in his hand; and he bowed down and stooped with his face. 32. And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass thrice? Behold, I am gone out to resist thee: for the way is turned back before me. 33. And the ass saw me, and departed from me three times: otherwise, if she had not departed from me, even now would I have slain thee, and kept the ass alive. 34. And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned: for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me: and now, if it please thee not, I will return. 35. And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Go with the men; but speak no other thing than that which I shall speak unto thee. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak. 36. And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto the city of Moab, which is in the border of Arnon, which is in the uttermost border. 37. And said unto him, Did not I send unto thee, and require thee? Why then didst thou not come unto me? Thinkest thou that I cannot honour thee? 38. And Balaam said unto him, Behold, I am come unto thee; but how can I speak otherwise? For that which God puts in my mouth I must speak. 39. So Balaam went with Balak, and came into the city of the streets. 40. And Balak offered oxen and sheep, and sent for Balaam, and for the princes that were with him. (Numbers) Chapter 23 Balaam's curse turned into a blessing. 41. And it came to pass in the morning, that Balak took Balaam, and brought him up to the top of Baal, that he might see from thence unto the end of the people. 1. And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and make me seven bullocks and seven rams. 2. And Balak did as Balaam told him: and Balak and Balaam offered upon one altar a bullock and a ram. 3. And Balaam said unto Balak, Stand by thy burnt offering; and I will go, if peradventure the LORD meet me, to tell thee what he sheweth me. And he went in haste. 4. And God met Balaam; and he said unto him, Seven altars have I prepared, and I have offered upon every altar a bullock and a ram. 5. And the LORD put the word in Balaam's mouth, and said, Go again unto Balak, and speak thus. 6. And when he was come again, behold, he stood by his burnt offering with all the princes of Moab. 7. And he began to speak, saying, Balak king of Moab hath sent for me out of Syria, from the mountains toward the east, saying, Come, curse me Jacob. Come, rebuke Israel. 8. How shall I curse him whom God curseth not? How shall I rebuke him whom the LORD rebukeeth not? 9. For from the height of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him. Behold, the people shall dwell specially, and shall not be reckoned among the heathen. 10. Who can number the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth part of Israel? Let my soul die the death of the righteous, and let my end be like that end! 11. And Balak said unto Balaam, What doest thou unto me? I sent for thee to curse mine enemies: and, behold, thou blessest. 12. And he answered and said, Must I not keep and speak that which the LORD put in my mouth? 13. And Balak said unto him, Come thou with me unto another place, from thence thou shalt see his end, and yet shalt not see it altogether; and curse me there. 14. And he brought him unto an open place in the high place of Pisgah, and built seven altars, and offered upon every altar a bullock and a ram. 15. And he said unto Balak, Stand by thy burnt offering, and I will wait there. 16. And the LORD met Balaam, and put the word in his mouth, and said, Go again unto Balak, and speak thus. 17. And when he was come again, behold, he stood by his burnt offering with the princes of Moab. And Balak said unto him, What hath the LORD said? 18. And he began to speak, saying, Arise, Balak, and hear. Hear what I say, thou son of Zipor. 19. God is not a man, that he should lie; nor the son of man, that he should repent. Should he say something and not do it? Should he speak something and not keep it? 20. Behold, I am brought to bless; I bless, and cannot turn. 21. There is no toil in Jacob, nor work in Israel. The LORD his God is with him, and the trumpet of the king is under him. 22; God brought them out of Egypt; his joy is like that of a unicorn. 23. For there is no magician in Jacob, neither is there a soothsayer in Israel. In his time it shall be said of Jacob, and of Israel, what wonders God doeth. 24. Behold, the people shall rise up like a young lion, and shall be lifted up like a lion; they shall not lie down until they eat the spoil, and drink the blood of the slain. 25. And Balak said unto Balaam, Thou shalt neither curse him, nor bless him. 26. And Balaam answered and said unto Balak, Did I not tell thee that whatsoever the LORD would speak, that would I do? 27. And Balak said unto him, Come now, and I will bring thee unto another place, if it please God that thou curse them there. 28. And he brought him to the top of mount Peor, which looketh toward the wilderness. 29. And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and make me seven bullocks and seven rams. 30. And Balak did as Balaam said, and offered upon one altar a bullock and a ram. (Numbers) Chapter 24 Balaam's prophecy of the star from Jacob. 1. And when Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, he went not after the sorcerers, as he went before, but straightway set his face toward the wilderness, 2. And he lifted up his eyes, and saw Israel lying according to their tribes. And the Spirit of God came upon him. 3. And he began his saying, saying, Balaam the son of Beor saith; the man whose eyes are opened saith; 4. It is said by the hearer of divine speech, who sees the revelation of the Almighty, whose eyes are opened when he kneels down: 5. How excellent are thy tents, O Jacob, and thy dwellings, O Israel! 6. How the rivers are spread abroad, as the gardens by the waters, as the tabernacles which the LORD planteth, as the cedars by the waters. 7. Water shall flow out of his bucket, and his seed shall become great waters: his king shall be exalted above Agag, and his kingdom shall be exalted. 8. God hath brought him out of Egypt: his joy is as the joy of a unicorn. He shall devour the heathen, his persecutors, and shall bruise their bones, and shall bruise them with his arrows. 9. He hath laid himself down like a lion, and like a young lion: who will rise up against him? Blessed is he that blesseth thee, and cursed is he that curseth thee! 10. And Balak was wroth in anger against Balaam, and smote his hands together, and said unto him, I charged thee to curse mine enemies: and, behold, thou hast now blessed them thrice. 11. And now lift thee up into thy place. I thought to honour thee, but the LORD hath denied thee honour. 12. Balaam answered him, Did I not also say unto thy messengers, which thou sentest unto me, saying: 13. If Balak had given me his house full of silver and gold, could I not, in the sight of the LORD, choose to do evil or to do good according to my heart? but what the LORD would speak, that would I speak also? 14. And now, behold, if I go unto my people, come, and I will counsel thee what this people shall do unto thy people in the latter days. 15. And he began his saying, saying, Balaam the son of Beor saith; the man whose eyes are opened saith; 16. He that heareth divine words, and hath knowledge of the most High, and seeth the revelation of the Almighty, and his eyes are opened when he kneels down: 17. I will see him, but not now; I will behold him, but not from near. There shall arise a star out of Jacob, and a sceptre out of Israel, and shall smite the princes of Moab, and destroy all the children of Seth. 18. Edom shall he take, and Seir shall be subject unto his enemies: but Israel shall have victory. 19. Out of Jacob shall the ruler come, and shall destroy that is left of the cities. 20. And when he saw the Amalekites, he began his saying, Amalek, the first of the heathen: but at the last thou shalt surely perish. 21. And when he saw the Kenites, he began to speak, saying, Thy dwelling is strong, and thou hast laid thy nest in a rock. 22. But, O Kam, thou shalt be burned when Assyria shall carry thee away captive. 23. And he lifted up his saying again, and said, Ah, who shall live when God shall do these things? 24. And ships out of Chittim shall destroy Assyria and Eber: he also shall perish. 25. And Balaam arose, and went, and returned unto his place: and Balak went his way. (Numbers) Chapter 25 Idolatry and fornication will be severely punished. 1. And Israel dwelt in Shittim: and the people began to fornicate with the daughters of Moab, 2. Which invited the people to the sacrifice of their gods. And the people did eat, and worshipped their gods. 3. And Israel clave unto Baal Peor. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, 4. And Moses said, Take all the rulers of the people, and hang them in the sun unto the LORD, that the fierce anger of the LORD may be turned from Israel. 5. And Moses said unto the judges of Israel, Slay every man his men that have cleaved unto Baal-peor. 6. And, behold, a man of the children of Israel came and brought among his brethren a Midianitish woman, and made Moses to see, and all the congregation of the children of Israel weeping at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 7. And when the son of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest saw it, he arose out of the congregation, and took a spear in his hand, 8. And he went after the man of Israel into the whore's corner, and pierced them both, the man of Israel and the woman, through their bellies. And the plague ceased from the children of Israel. 9. And there were killed in the plague twenty and four thousand. 10. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 11. Phinehas the son of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest hath turned away mine anger from the children of Israel by his zeal for me, that I should not destroy the children of Israel in my zeal. 12. Therefore say, Behold, I give him my covenant of peace; 13. And he shall have, and his seed after him, the covenant of an everlasting priesthood, because he hath labored for his God, and hath made an atonement for the children of Israel. 14. And the name of the Israelitish man that was slain with the Midianitish woman was Zimri the son of Salu, a ruler in the house of the father of the Simeonites. 15. And the name of the Midianitish woman that was slain was Casbi, the daughter of Zur, who was a prince of one family of the Midianites. 16. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 17. Harm the Midianites, and smite them; 18. For they have wronged you with their deceit, which they set before you by Peor, and by their sister Casbi the daughter of the prince of Midian, which was slain in the day of the plague for Peor's sake, and the plague came after. (Numbers) Chapter 26 The Jewish people are counted anew. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses and Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest: 2. Take the sum of all the congregation of the children of Israel from twenty years old and upward, according to their fathers' houses, all that are able to go forth to war in Israel. 3. And Moses spake unto them with Eleazar the priest in the plains of Moab by Jordan over against Jericho, 4. Who were twenty years old and upward, as the LORD commanded Moses, and the children of Israel which came out of Egypt. 5. Reuben, the firstborn of Israel. And the sons of Reuben were: Hanoch, from whom came the family of the Hanochites; Pallu, from whom came the family of the Palluites; 6. Hezron, from whom is the family of the Hezronites; Charmi, from whom is the family of the Charmites. 7. These are the families of Reuben; and their number was forty and three thousand seven hundred and thirty. 8. But the children of Pallu were Eliab; 9. And the sons of Eliab were Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. These are Dathan and Abiram, the chief of the congregation, which rebelled against Moses and Aaron in the company of Korah, when they rebelled against the LORD, 10. And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up with Korah, when the congregation died; when the fire devoured two hundred and fifty men, and became a sign. 11. But the children of Korah died not. 12. The sons of Simeon in their families were: Nemuel, whence cometh the family of the Nemuelites; Jamin, whence cometh the family of the Jaminites; Jachin, whence cometh the family of the Jachinites; 13. Serah, from whence cometh the family of the Zerahites: Saul, from whence cometh the family of the Saulites. 14. These are the families of Si meon: twenty and two thousand and two hundred. 15. The children of Gad in their families were: Ziphon, whence cometh the family of the Ziphonites; Haggi, whence cometh the family of the Haggites; Suni, whence cometh the family of the Sunites; 16. Osni, from whence cometh the family of the Osnites; Eri, from whence cometh the family of the Erites; 17. Arod, from whence cometh the family of the Arodites; Ariel, from whence cometh the family of the Arielites. 18. These are the families of the children of Gad, in their number forty thousand and five hundred. 19. The sons of Judah; Ger and Onan, both of whom died in the land of Canaan. 20. And the children of Judah were of their families; Shelah, from whence came the family of the Selanites; Perez, from whence came the family of the Perezites; Zerah, from whence came the family of the Zerahites. 21. But the sons of Perez were: Hezron, whence cometh the family of the Hezronites; Hamul, whence cometh the family of the Hamulites. 22. These are the families of Judah, in their number threescore and six thousand and five hundred. 23. The children of Issachar in their families were: Thola, from whence comes the family of the Tholaites; Phuva, from whence comes the family of the Phuvanites; 24. Jashub, from whence cometh the family of the Jashubites; Shimron, from whence cometh the family of the Shimronites. 25. These are the families of Issachar, threescore and four thousand and three hundred. 26. The sons of Zebulun in their families were: Zered, whence cometh the family of the Zeredites; Elon, whence cometh the family of the Elonites; Jaheleel, whence cometh the family of the Jaheleelites. 27. These are the families of Zebulun, threescore thousand and five hundred in number. 28. And the sons of Joseph in their families were: Manasseh and Ephraim. 29. And the sons of Manasseh were: Machir, whence cometh the family of the Machirites: Machir begat Gilead, whence cometh the family of the Gileadites. 30. Now these are the children of Gilead: Hieser, from whence comes the family of the Hieserites; Helek, from whence comes the family of the Helekites; 31. Asriel, from whence cometh the family of the Asrielites: and from whence cometh the family of the Shechemites; 32. Smida, whence cometh the family of the Smidaites: Hepher, whence cometh the family of the Hepherites. 33. And Zelaphehad was the son of Hepher, and had no sons, but daughters: and their names were Mahela, and Noah, and Hagla, and Milcah, and Tirzah. 34. These are the families of Manasseh, fifty and two thousand and seven hundred in number. 35. The children of Ephraim in their families were: Suthelah, from whence came the family of the Suthelahites; Becher, from whence came the family of the Becherites; Thahan, from whence came the family of the Thahanites. 36. And the children of Suthelah were: Eran, whence cometh the family of the Eranites. 37. These are the families of the children of Ephraim, in their number thirty and two thousand and five hundred. These are the sons of Joseph in their generations. 38. The children of Benjamin in their families were: Bela, whence cometh the family of the Belaites; Asbel, whence cometh the family of the Asbelites; Ahiram, whence cometh the family of the Ahiramites; 39. Supham, from whence cometh the family of the Suphamites; Hupham, from whence cometh the family of the Huphamites. 40. And the children of Bela were: Ard and Naaman, whence came the families of the Ardites and Naamanites. 41. These are the sons of Benjamin in their families, numbering forty and five thousand and six hundred. 42. The children of Dan in their families were: Suham, from whence comes the family of the Suhamites. 43. These are the families of Dan in their generations, and were all the number of them threescore and four thousand and four hundred. 44. The children of Asher in their families were: Jemna, from whence cometh the family of the Jemnites; Jeswi, from whence cometh the family of the Jezvites; Briah, from whence cometh the family of the Brites. 45. But the sons of Briah were: Heber, whence cometh the family of the Hebrews; Melchiel, whence cometh the family of the Melchielites. 46. And the name of the daughter of Asher was Sarah. 47. These are the families of the children of Asher, in their number fifty and three thousand and four hundred. 48. The children of Naphtali in their families were: Jaheziel, whence came the family of the Jahezielites; Guni, whence came the family of the Gunites; 49. Jezer, from whence cometh the family of the Jezerites; Sillem, from whence cometh the family of the Sillemites. 50. These are the families of Naphtali, in their number forty and five thousand and four hundred. 51. This is the sum of the children of Israel, six times an hundred thousand, one thousand seven hundred and thirty. 52. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 53. Unto these shalt thou divide the land for an inheritance according to the number of the names. 54. Many shalt thou give much for an inheritance, and few shalt thou give little: to every one shalt thou give according to his number. 55. But the land shall be divided by lot: according to the names of the tribes of their fathers shall they take inheritance. 56. For by lot shalt thou divide their inheritance between the many and the few. 57. And this is the summa of the Levites in their families: Gershon, therefore the family of the Gershonites; Kohath, therefore the family of the Kohathites; Meran, therefore the family of the Merarites. 58. These are the families of Levi; the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family of the Mahelites, the family of the Musites, the family of the Korahites. Kohath begat Amram. 59. And Amram's wife's name was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, which was born unto him in Egypt: and she bare unto Amram Aaron, and Moses, and Miriam her sister. 60. And unto Aaron was born Nadab, and Abihu, and Eleazar, and Ithamar. 61. And Nadab and Abihu died, when they offered strange fire before the LORD. 62. And the sum of them was twenty and three thousand, every male from a month old and upward. For they were not numbered among the children of Israel: for there was no inheritance given them among the children of Israel. 63. This is the sum of the children of Israel, which Moses and Eleazar the priest numbered in the plains of Moab by Jordan over against Jericho; 64. Of whom there was none of the number, when Moses and Aaron the priest numbered the children of Israel in the wilderness of Sinai. 65. For the LORD had told them that they should die in the wilderness. And there was none left but Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun, (Numbers) Chapter 27 Law of hereditary estates. Joshua appointed prince of the people in Moses' stead. 1. And the daughters of Zelaphehad the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, of the families of Manasseh the son of Joseph, named Mahela, Noah, Hagla, Milcah, and Tirzah, came near. 2. And they stood before Moses, and before Eleazar the priest, and before the princes, and all the congregation, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and said: 3. Our father died in the wilderness, and was not with the congregation that rebelled against the LORD in the company of Korah, but died in his sin, and had no sons. 4. Why then should our father's name perish among his seed, though he have no son? Pray us also a good among our father's brethren. 5. Moses brought their cause before the LORD. 6. And the LORD said unto him: 7. The daughters of Zelaphehad have spoken right: thou shalt give them an inheritance among their father's brethren, and shalt give their father's inheritance unto them. 8. And say unto the children of Israel, If a man die, and have no sons, ye shall give his inheritance unto his daughter. 9. If he have no daughter, ye shall give her unto his brethren. 10. If he have no brethren, ye shall give it unto his kinsmen. 11. If he have no kinsmen, ye shall give it unto his kinsmen that are next of kin unto him, that they may take it. This shall be a law and a statute unto the children of Israel, as the LORD commanded Moses. 12. And the LORD said unto Moses, Get you up into this mountain Abarim, and possess the land which I will give unto the children of Israel. 13. And when thou hast seen it, thou shalt gather thyself unto thy people, as Aaron thy brother was gathered, 14. Because ye disobeyed my word in the wilderness of Zin over the strife of the congregation, when ye sanctified me by the water before them. This is the water of the Haad in Kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin. 15. And Moses spake unto the LORD, saying: 16. Let the LORD God, who is over all living flesh, set a man over the congregation, 17. Who goeth out from before them, and leadeth them in and out, that the congregation of the Lord be not as sheep without a shepherd. 18. And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, which is a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay thine hands upon him; 19. And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation, and minister unto him in their sight; 20. And put thy glory upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may obey him. 21. And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, and he shall ask counsel for him by the way of light before the LORD. After the mouth of the priest shall he go out, and they shall come in, he, and all the children of Israel with him, and all the congregation. 22. And Moses, as the LORD commanded him, took Joshua, and set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; 23. And he laid his hand upon him, and commanded him, as the LORD spake unto Moses. (Numbers) Chapter 28 Law of multiple victims repeated. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Give unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: The sacrifices of my bread, which is my sacrifice of sweet savour, shall ye keep in his seasons, to offer unto me. 3. And say unto them: These are the sacrifices which ye shall offer unto the LORD: lambs of the first year without change, two every day for a continual burnt offering; 4. One lamb of the morning, the other between evenings; 5. And a tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meat offering, mingled with oil that is poured out, a fourth part of the hin. 6. This is a daily burnt offering, which ye offered at mount Sinai for a sweet savour, a fire unto the LORD. 7. And the drink offering thereof, a quarter of the hin for each lamb. And in the sanctuary shall the wine of the drink offering be offered unto the LORD. 8. And the other lamb shalt thou make between the evenings, as the meat offering of the morning, and the drink offering thereof for a sacrifice of a sweet savour unto the LORD. 9. And on the sabbath day two lambs of the first year without change, and two tenths of fine flour for a meat offering mingled with oil, and his drink offering. 10. This is the burnt offering of every sabbath above the daily burnt offering, with his drink offering. 11. And on the first day of your months ye shall offer a burnt offering unto the LORD; two young bullocks, one ram, seven lambs of the first year without change; 12. And three tenths of fine flour for a meat offering mingled with oil for a bullock, and two tenths of fine flour for a meat offering mingled with oil for a ram; 13. And a tenth of fine flour for a meat offering, mingled with oil, for a lamb. This is the burnt offering of the sweet savour, an offering made unto the LORD. 14. And their drink offering shall be half an hin of wine for a bullock, and a third part for a ram, and a fourth part for a lamb. This is the burnt offering of every month of the year. 15. And they shall offer a kid of the goats for a sin offering unto the LORD, upon the daily burnt offering, and upon his drink offering. 16. And on the fourteenth day of the first month is the passover to the LORD. 17. And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast. Seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten. 18. The first day shall be called holy, that ye come together: ye shall do no service within. 19. And ye shall offer burnt offerings unto the LORD; two young bullocks, and one ram, and seven lambs of the first year without change, 20. And their meat offering: three tenths of fine flour mingled with oil for a bullock, and two tenths for a ram; 21. And a tithe on each of the seven lambs; 22. And one goat for a sin offering, that ye may be reconciled. 23. And ye shall do this in the morning upon the burnt offering, which is a daily burnt offering. 24. After this manner ye shall offer bread every day seven days, for an offering of a sweet savour unto the LORD, above the daily burnt offering, and his drink offering. 25. And the seventh day shall be called holy unto you, that ye come together: ye shall do no service within. 26. And the day of the firstfruits, when ye offer the new meat offering unto the LORD, when your weeks are expired, shall be called holy, that ye come together: ye shall do no work within. 27. And ye shall offer burnt offerings for a sweet savour unto the LORD; two young bullocks, and one ram, and seven lambs of the first year, 28. And their meat offering: three tenths of fine flour mingled with oil for a bullock, and two tenths for a ram; 29. And a tithe each to a lamb of the seven lambs; 30. And a kid of the goats to make atonement for you. 31. This shall ye do for the daily burnt offering with his meat offering. Without change it shall be, with their drink offerings. (Numbers) Chapter 29 Other victims. 1. And the first day of the seventh month shall be called holy unto you, that ye come together: ye shall do no service within. It is your day of drumming. 2. And ye shall offer burnt offerings for a sweet savour unto the LORD; a young bullock, and a ram, and seven lambs of the first year without change; 3. And their meat offering: three tenths of fine flour mingled with oil for the bullock, and two tenths for the ram. 4. And a tithe on every lamb of the seven lambs; 5. Even a kid of the goats for a sin offering, to make atonement for you, 6. Over the burnt offering of the moon, and over his meat offering, and over the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and with their drink offering, according to their right for a sweet savour. This is an offering unto the LORD. 7. The tenth day of this seventh month shall also be called holy unto you, that ye come together; and ye shall mortify your bodies, and do no work within, 8. But offer burnt offerings unto the LORD for a sweet savour; a young bullock, and a ram, and seven lambs of the first year without change, 9. With their meat offerings, three tenths of fine flour mingled with oil for the bullock, and two tenths for the ram. 10. And a tithe each to one of the seven lambs; 11. And one kid of the goats for a sin offering over against the sin offering of atonement, and the daily burnt offering with his meat offering, and with their drink offering. 12. The fifteenth day of the seventh month shall be called holy unto you, that ye come together. Ye shall do no service within: ye shall keep the feast of the LORD seven days. 13. And ye shall offer burnt offerings for a sacrifice of a sweet savour unto the LORD; thirteen young bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without change, 14. And their meat offering: three tenths of fine flour mingled with oil for one of the thirteen bullocks, and two tenths for one of the two rams. 15. and a tithe each to one of the fourteen lambs; 16. And one kid of the goats for a sin offering for the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and his drink offering. 17. And the next day twelve young bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without issue, 18. With their meat offering and their drink offering unto the bullocks, and to the rams, and to the lambs, in their number, according to the law; 19. And one kid of the goats for a sin offering over the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and with their drink offering. 20. And on the third day eleven bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without issue, 21. With their meat offerings and their drink offerings unto the bullocks, and to the rams, and to the lambs, in their number, according to the law; 22. And one kid of the goats for a sin offering for the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and his drink offering. 23. And on the fourth day ten bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without issue, 24. With their meat offerings and their drink offerings, with the bullocks, and with the rams, and with the lambs, in their number, according to the law; 25. And one kid of the goats for a sin offering for the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and his drink offering. 26. And on the fifth day nine bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without issue, 27. And their meat offerings, and their drink offerings, and their bullocks, and their rams, and their lambs, in their number, according to the law; 28. And one goat for a sin offering for the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and his drink offering. 29. And on the sixth day eight bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without issue, 30. And their meat offering, and their drink offering, and their bullock, and their rams, and their lambs, according to their number, according to the law; and a goat for a sin offering over 31. And the daily burnt offering, with his meat offering, and his drink offering. 32. And on the seventh day seven bullocks, and two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without issue, 33. And their meat offerings, and their drink offerings, and their bullocks, and their rams, and their lambs, in their number, according to the law; 34. And a goat for a sin offering over the daily burnt offering with his meat offering and his drink offering. 35. On the eighth day shall be the day of the assembly: ye shall do no service within. 36. And ye shall offer burnt offerings for a sacrifice of a sweet savour unto the LORD; a bullock, and a ram, and seven lambs of the first year without change, 37. And their meat offerings, and their drink offerings, and their bullocks, and their rams, and their lambs, in their number, according to the law; 38. And one goat for a sin offering over the daily burnt offering with his meat offering and his drink offering. 39. These things shall ye do unto the LORD in your feasts, except that which ye vow and freely offer for burnt offerings, and for meat offerings, and for drink offerings, and for peace offerings. Ch. 30. v. 1. And Moses told the children of Israel all things whatsoever the LORD commanded him. (Numbers) Chapter 30 Of vows, how they connect or don't connect. 2. And Moses spake unto the princes of the tribes of the children of Israel, saying, This is that the LORD hath commanded: 3. If any man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind up his soul, he shall not weaken his word, but shall do according to all that proceeded out of his mouth. 4. When a woman voweth a vow unto the LORD, and is joined together, because she is in her father's house, and in the magdalities; 5. And her vow and her covenant, which she hath made over her soul, shall come before her father, and he shall hold his peace: so shall all her vow be, and all her covenant, which she hath bound herself over her soul. 6. But if her father forbid her in the daytime, when he heareth it, there is no vow nor covenant, whereof she hath bound herself over her soul: and the LORD will be gracious unto her, because her father hath forbidden her. 7. But if she have a husband, and have a vow upon her, or if she escape out of her lips a covenant upon her soul; 8. And the man heareth it, and is silent that day: so is her vow and covenant, which she hath bound herself to for her soul. 9. And if her husband repent in the day when he heareth it, then her vow that she hath upon her is loosed, and the covenant that is gone out of her lips upon her soul: and the LORD will be gracious unto her. 10. The vow of a widow and an outcast: all that she bindeth herself about her soul shall be upon her. 11. If a man's servants pledge or bind themselves with an oath concerning his soul; 12. And the master of the house heareth it, and holdeth his peace, and forbeareth it not: so all the same vow, and all that he hath joined himself to, shall be for his soul. 13. But if the master of the house loose it in the day when he heareth it, it shall not be counted that which proceeded out of his lips, which he hath vowed, or that which he hath joined himself unto his soul: for the master of the house hath loosed it; and the LORD will be gracious unto him. 14. And all the vows and oaths to bind, to mortify the body, the master of the house may strengthen or weaken, so: 15. And when he shall hold his peace from day to day, he shall confirm all his vows and covenants that are upon him, because he held his peace in the day that he heard it. 16. But if he weaken it after he hath heard it, he shall bear the iniquity. 17. These are the statutes which the LORD commanded Moses between husband and wife, between father and daughter; because she is yet a maid in her father's house. (Numbers) Chapter 31 Israel receives victory and great spoils against the Midianites. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Avenge the children of Israel upon the Midianites, and afterward gather thyself unto thy people. 3. And Moses spake unto the people, saying, Prepare ye a host among you against the Midianites, to avenge the LORD upon the Midianites; 4. Out of every tribe a thousand, that ye may send into the army out of all the tribes of Israel. 5. And they took of the thousands of Israel, a thousand of every tribe, twelve thousand armed for an army. 6. And Moses sent them into the army with Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and the holy garments and the hall trumpets into his hand. 7. And they led the host against the Midianites, as the LORD commanded Moses, and slew all the males. 8. And they slew the kings of Midian with their slain, Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, the five kings of Midian. Balaam the son of Beor also they slew with the sword. 9. And the children of Israel took captive the wives of the Midianites, and their children; all their cattle, and all their substance, and all their goods, did they spoil. 10. And burnt with fire all their cities of their habitation, and all their castles. 11. And they took all the spoil, and all that was to be taken, both men and cattle, 12. And they brought them unto Moses, and unto Eleazar the priest, and unto the congregation of the children of Israel, even the captives, and the cattle that were taken, and the spoil, unto the camp that is in the plains of Moab, which are by Jordan over against Jericho. 13. And Moses, and Eleazar the priest, and all the princes of the congregation, went out to meet them before the camp. 14. And Moses was wroth with the captains of the host, which were captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, which were of the host, and of the battle, 15. And said unto them: Why have ye let all the women live? 16. Behold, did not the children of Israel, by the counsel of Balaam, turn away to sin against the LORD above Peor, and a plague befell the congregation of the LORD? 17. Slay therefore all that are male among the children, and all the women which men have known, and which have been with them; 18. But every child that is a woman, and hath not known nor been with men, let him live unto you. 19. And ye shall lie down without the camp seven days, all ye that have slain, or touched them that were slain; and ye shall repent yourselves the third day, and the seventh day, with them that are taken captives. 20. And all garments, and all vessels of skins, and all furs, and all vessels of oil, shall ye uncover. 21. And Eleazar the priest said unto the people of war that were at war, This is the law which the LORD commanded Moses: 22. gold, silver, ore, iron, tin and lead 23. And all that suffereth fire ye shall pass through the fire, and purify it, that it may be purged with the water of separation. But all that suffereth not fire ye shall pass through water. 24. And ye shall wash your clothes the seventh day, and be clean: afterward ye shall come into the camp. 25. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 26. Take the sum of the spoil of the captives, both of men and cattle, thou, and Eleazar the priest, and the chief fathers of the congregation, 27. And give half to them that went out to the army, and did the battle, and the other half to the congregation. 28. And thou shalt raise up unto the LORD of the men of war that are gone out to the army one soul every five hundred, both of men, and of oxen, and of asses, and of sheep. 29. Of their half shalt thou take, and give unto Eleazar the priest to heave unto the LORD. 30. And of the half of the children of Israel thou shalt take of every fifty a piece of goods, both of men, and of oxen, and of asses, and of sheep, and of all cattle, and shalt give them unto the Levites, which keep the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD. 31. And Moses and Eleazar the priest did as the LORD commanded Moses. 32. And the rest of the spoil which the people of war had taken were six hundred and five and fifty thousand sheep, 33. Seventy-two thousand head of cattle, 34. Sixty-one thousand asses 35. And of the women that were not known to men, nor that were with them, thirty and two thousand souls. 36. And the half that belonged to them that went forth into the army were in number three hundred and thirty and seven thousand and five hundred sheep. 37. Of which there were unto the LORD six hundred and seventy and five sheep. 38. And there were thirty and six thousand oxen, of which seventy and two were given unto the LORD. 39. Item, thirty thousand and five hundred asses; of which one~ and sixty were given to the LORD. 40. Item, souls of men, sixteen thousand souls; of which thirty and two were given unto the LORD. 41. And Moses gave the heave of the LORD unto Eleazar the priest, as the LORD commanded him. 42. But the other half, which Moses allotted unto the children of Israel of the men of war 43. namely, half of the congregation in charge, was also three hundred times, and thirty and seven thousand five hundred sheep, 44. Thirty-six thousand head of cattle, 45. thirty thousand and five hundred asses 46. and sixteen thousand souls of men. 47. And Moses took of this half of the children of Israel a piece of fifty, both of cattle and of men, and gave them unto the Levites that kept the guard at the tabernacle of the LORD, as the LORD commanded Moses. 48. And the captains of thousands of the people of war, that is, of thousands and hundreds, came unto Moses. 49. And they said unto him, Thy servants have taken the sum of the men of war that were under our hands, and there lacketh not one. 50. Wherefore we bring unto the LORD gifts, every man's vessels of gold, chains, bracelets, rings, earrings, and clasps, that our souls may be reconciled unto the LORD. 51. And Moses took of them, and Eleazar the priest, the gold of all the vessels. 52. And all the gold that they brought unto the LORD was sixteen thousand and seven hundred and fifty shekels of the captains of thousands and hundreds. 53. For the men of war had spoiled every man for himself. 54. And Moses with Eleazar the priest took the gold of the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and brought it into the tabernacle of the congregation for a memorial of the children of Israel before the LORD. (Numbers) Chapter 32 A beginning is made to the possession of the land of Canaan. 1. And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had much cattle, and looked upon the land of Jaesher and Gilead for a convenient place for their cattle; 2. And they came and spake unto Moses, and to Eleazar the priest, and to the princes of the congregation: 3. The land of Ataroth, Dibon, Jaeser, Nimrah, Heshbon, Eleale, Zebam, Nebo, and Beon, 4. Which the LORD hath smitten before the congregation of Israel, it is convenient for cattle: and we thy servants have cattle. 5. And they said, If we have found grace in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants, and let us not pass over Jordan. 6. And Moses said unto them: Your brethren shall go to battle, and ye will tarry here? 7. Why do ye harden the hearts of the children of Israel, that they go not over into the land which the LORD shall give them? 8. So did your fathers, when I sent them forth from Kadeshbarnea, to see the land; 9. And when they were come up to the brook Eshcol, and saw the land, they made the heart of the children of Israel to turn, that they would not enter into the land which the LORD would give them. 10. And the anger of the LORD was kindled at that time, and he sware, and said: 11. For these men which came out of Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall not see the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, because they followed me not faithfully; 12. Except Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite, and Joshua the son of Nun: for they followed the LORD faithfully. 13. So the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he made them wander in the wilderness forty years, until there was an end of all the generation that had done evil in the sight of the LORD. 14. And, behold, ye are come up in the place of your fathers, that there should be more sinners, and that ye should provoke the anger and wrath of the LORD against Israel. 15. For wheresoever ye turn from him, he will also longer leave them in the wilderness, and ye shall destroy all this people. 16. And they came near, and said: We will build flocks here for our cattle, and cities for our children; 17. And we will prepare ourselves before the children of Israel, until we bring them into their place. Our children shall dwell in the cities that are shut up, because of the inhabitants of the land. 18. We will not return until the children of Israel take every man his inheritance. 19. For we will not inherit with them on the other side Jordan: but our inheritance shall fall unto us on this side Jordan toward the east. 20. And Moses said unto them: If ye will do this thing, to prepare yourselves to battle before the LORD, 21. Then pass over Jordan before the LORD, he that is armed among you, until he cast out his enemies from before his face, 22. And the land shall be subdued before the LORD: afterward ye shall return, and be blameless before the LORD, and before Israel; and ye shall inherit this land before the LORD. 23. But if ye will not do so, behold, ye shall sin against the LORD, and shall know your sin when it findeth you. 24. Now therefore build ye cities for your children, and hedges for your cattle, and do according to all that ye have spoken. 25. And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben said unto Moses, Thy servants shall do as my lord hath commanded. 26. Our children, our wives, our goods, and all our cattle, shall be in the cities of Gilead; 27. And we thy servants will all go armed to battle before the LORD, as my lord hath spoken. 28. And Moses commanded Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, on that occasion. 29: And he said unto them: When the children of Gad and the children of Reuben pass over Jordan with you, all armed for war before the LORD, and the land is subject unto you, then give them the land of Gilead for their possession. 30. And if they draw not with you, then they shall inherit with you in the land of Canaan. 31. And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben answered and said: As the LORD spake unto thy servants, so will we do. 32. We will go armed before the LORD into the land of Canaan, and possess our inheritance on this side Jordan. 33. And Moses gave unto the children of Gad, and unto the children of Reuben, and unto the half tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land and the cities throughout all the coasts thereof. 34. And the children of Gad built Dibon, and Ataroth, and Aroer, 35. Atroth, Sophan, Jaeser, Jegabeha, 36. Beth-Nimrah and Beth Haran, closed cities and sheepfolds. 37. And the children of Reuben built Heshbon, Eleale, Kiriathaim, 38. Nebo, Baal-meon, and changed the names thereof, and Sibamah; and gave names to the cities which they built. 39. And the children of Machir the son of Manasseh went into Gilead, and took it, and drove out the Amorites that were therein. 40. And Moses gave Gilead unto Machir the son of Manasseh; and he dwelt therein. 41. And Jair the son of Manasseh went and took their villages, and called their name Havoth-jair. 42. And Nobah went and took Knath with her daughters, and called them Nobah after his name. (Numbers) Chapter 33 Register of the journeys and encampments of the people of Israel. 1. These are the journeys of the children of Israel, which came forth out of the land of Egypt after their host by Moses and Aaron. 2. And Moses described their journey, how they went, according to the commandment of the LORD: for these are the journeys of their journey. 3. And they departed from Raemses on the fifteenth day of the first month, the second day of Pascha, by a high hand, that all the Egyptians might see, 4. And they buried the very firstborn, which the LORD had smitten among them: for the LORD also had executed judgments upon their gods. 5. And when they departed from Raemses, they encamped in Sukhoth. 6. And they departed from Shukoth, and encamped in Etham, which is at the end of the wilderness. 7. And they departed from Etham, and dwelt in the valley of Hiroth, which is over against Baalzephon, and encamped against Migdol. 8. And they departed from Hiroth, and went through the midst of the sea into the wilderness: and they journeyed three days in the wilderness of Etham, and pitched in Tin Marah. 9. And they departed from Marah, and came to Elim, wherein were twelve wells of water, and seventy palm trees: and they pitched there. 10. And they departed from Elim, and pitched by the Red sea. 11. And they departed from the Red sea, and pitched in the wilderness of Sin. 12. And they departed from the wilderness of Sin, and pitched in Daphkah. 13. And they departed from Daphkah, and encamped in Alus. 14. And they departed from Alus, and pitched in Raphidim: there the people had no water to drink. 15. And they departed from Raphidim, and encamped in the wilderness of Sinai. 16. And they departed from Sinai, and pitched in the graves of pleasure. 17. And they departed from the graves of pleasure, and pitched in Hazeroth. 18. And they departed from Hazeroth, and pitched in Rithma. 19. And they departed from Rithma, and encamped in Rimon-parez. 20. And they departed from Rimon-parez, and encamped at Libnah. 21. And they departed from Libnah, and encamped at Rissa. 22. And they departed from Rissa, and encamped at Kehelatha. 23. And they departed from Kehelatha, and encamped in mount Sapher. 24. And they departed from mount Sapher, and encamped in Haradah. 25. And they departed from Harada, and encamped in Makeheloth. 26. And they departed from Makeheloth, and encamped in Tahath. 27. And they departed from Tahath, and encamped in Tarah. 28. And they departed from Tarah, and pitched in Mithkah. 29. And they departed from Mithkah, and encamped at Hazmonah. 30. And they departed from Hasmona, and encamped at Moseroth. 31. And they departed from Moseroth, and encamped at Bne-jakan. 32. And they departed from Bne-jakan, and encamped in Horgidgad. 33. And they departed from Horgidgad, and encamped at Jathbatha. 34. And they departed from Jathbatha, and encamped in Abrona. 35. And they departed from Abrona, and encamped in Ezeon-gaber. 36. And they departed from Ezeon-gaber, and pitched in the wilderness of Zin, which is Kadesh. 37. And they departed from Kadesh, and pitched in mount Hor, in the border of the land of Edom. 38. And Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor, according to the commandment of the LORD, and died there in the fortieth year of the exodus of the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, in the first day of the fifth month, 39. When he was an hundred and twenty and three years old. 40. And Arad king of the Canaanites, which dwelt in the south of the land of Canaan, heard that the children of Israel were come. 41. And they went out from the mountain, and pitched in Zalmona. 42. And they departed from Zalmona, and encamped in Phunon. 43. And they departed from Phunon, and encamped in Oboth. 44. And they departed from Oboth, and pitched in Jgim, by mount Abarim, in the border of Moab. 45. And they departed from Jgim, and encamped at Dibon-gad. 46. And they departed from Dibon-gad, and encamped in Almon-diblathaim. 47. And they departed from Almon-diblathaim, and pitched in the mountains of Abarim against Nebo. 48. And they departed from mount Abarim, and pitched in the plains of Moab by Jordan toward Jericho. 49. And they encamped by Jordan from Beth-jesimoth unto the breadth of Shittim, the coasts of Moab. 50. And the LORD spake unto Moses in the plains of Moab by Jordan against Jericho, saying: 51. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When ye are gone over Jordan into the land of Canaan. 22. Then ye shall drive out all the inhabitants from before your face, and destroy all their pillars, and all their graven images, and destroy all their high places, 53. So that ye may possess the land, and dwell therein: for unto you have I given the land to possess it. 54. And ye shall divide the land by lot among your families. And unto them whose is much ye shall divide the more, and unto them whose is little ye shall divide the less. And as the lot shall fall upon every one there, so shall he have it, according to the tribes of their fathers. 55. But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before your face, then they that remain of you shall become thorns in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall throng you in the land wherein ye dwell within. 56. So it shall come to pass, that I will do unto you even as I thought to do unto them. (Numbers) Chapter 34 Boundaries of the Promised Land, how and by which to distribute it. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 2. Give unto the children of Israel, and say unto them: When ye come into the land of Canaan, the land that shall fall unto you for an inheritance in the land of Canaan shall be the border thereof. 3. And the south border shall begin at the wilderness of Zin, which is by Edom: and your border shall be on the south side from the end of the salt sea, which is on the east side, 4. And the border of it shall be from the south up to Akrabbim, and shall pass through Zinnah; and the end thereof shall be from the south unto Kadeshbarnea, and shall pass by the village of Adar, and shall pass through Azmon; 5. And it shall be from Azmon unto the river of Egypt, and the end thereof shall be by the sea. 6. But the border toward the west shall be this; even the great sea. Let this be your border toward the west. 7. The border toward the north shall be this: Ye shall measure from the great sea unto mount Hor; 8. And measure from mount Hor unto Hamath: and the going out thereof shall be the border of Zedadah; 9. And the border of it shall be at Siphron, and the end thereof shall be at the village of Enan. Let this be your border toward the north. 10. And ye shall measure the border eastward from the village of Enan unto Sepham; 11. And the border shall go down from Sepham unto Riblah unto Am from the east: and afterward it shall go down and be turned unto the sides of the sea of Cinereth toward the east, 12. And come down to Jordan, and let the salt sea be the end thereof. This shall be your land, and the border thereof round about. 13. And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the land which ye shall divide among you by lot, which the LORD commanded to be given unto the nine tribes, and to the half tribe. 14. For the tribe of the children of Reuben, of the house of their father, and the tribe of the children of Gad, of the house of their father, and the half tribe of Manasseh, were partakers unto her. 15. So the two tribes and the half tribe have their inheritance there since Jordan toward Jericho, toward the east. 16. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 17. These are the names of the men that shall divide the land among you: Eleazar the priest and tJoshua the son 18. And ye shall take the princes of every tribe to divide the land. 19. And these are the names of the men: Caleb the son of Jephunneh, of the tribe of Judah; 20. And Shemuel the son of Ammihud, of the tribe of Simeon; 21. Elidad the son of Chislon, of the tribe of Benjamin; 22. Buki the son of Jagli, prince of the tribe of the children of Dan;. 23. Haniel the son of Ephod, prince of the tribe of the children of Manasseh of the children of Joseph; 24. And Kemuel the son of Siphtan, prince of the tribe of the children of Ephraim; 25. Elizaphan the son of Parnach, prince of the tribe of the children of Zebulun; 26. Paltiel the son of Asan, prince of the tribe of the children of Issachar; 27. Ahihud the son of Selomi, prince of the tribe of the children of Asher; 28. Pedahel the son of Ammihud prince of the tribe of the children of Naphtali. 29. These are they whom the LORD commanded to divide an inheritance unto the children of Israel in the land of Canaan. (Numbers) Chapter 35 Of the cities of the Levites, free cities, and manslaughter. 1. And the LORD spake unto Moses in the plains of Moab by Jordan against Jericho, saying: 2. Give unto the children of Israel, that they may give unto the Levites cities of their inheritance, where they may dwell; 3. And the suburbs round about the cities shall ye give unto the Levites also, that they may dwell in the cities, and have in the suburbs their cattle, and their goods, and all manner of beasts. 4. And the breadth of the suburbs, which they shall give unto the Levites, shall be a thousand cubits round about, beside the wall of the city. 5. And ye shall measure the outward part of the city from the east corner two thousand cubits, and from the south corner two thousand cubits, and from the west corner two thousand cubits, and from the north corner two thousand cubits: and the city shall be in the middle. These are the suburbs thereof. 6. And of the cities which ye shall give unto the Levites, ye shall give six cities of refuge; and whosoever hath committed manslaughter shall go in there. And over them ye shall give forty and two cities, 7. And all the cities which ye shall give unto the Levites shall be forty and eight with their suburbs. 8. And ye shall give the more of them that have much among the children of Israel, and the less of them that have little: every man according to his inheritance that is allotted unto him shall give cities unto the Levites. 9. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying: 10. Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye are come over Jordan into the land of Canaan, 11. Choose ye cities, that they may be cities of refuge: let him flee thither that committeth unawares manslaughter. 12. And there shall be among you such cities of refuge from the avenger of blood, that he that hath committed manslaughter shall not die, until he be tried before the congregation. 13. And of the cities which ye shall give shall be six free cities. 14. Three shall ye give on this side Jordan, and three in the land of Canaan. 15. These are the six cities of refuge, both of the children of Israel, and of the strangers, and of the householders that are among you; that whosoever hath committed manslaughter may flee thither unawares. 16. Whosoever shall smite any man with an iron, that he die, he is a manslayer, and shall surely be put to death. 17. If he cast a stone at him, that any man might be killed, and die of it, he is a manslayer, and shall surely be put to death. 18. But if he smite him with a wood, that he may smite a man to death, he is a manslayer, and shall surely be put to death. 19. The avenger of blood shall put to death the manslayer: as he hath smitten, so shall he be put to death again. 20. If he cast him out of hatred, or cast any thing upon him by guile, that he die, 21. Or if he smite him with his hand through enmity, that he die: he that smote him shall surely die: for he is a manslayer: the avenger of blood shall put him to death. 22. But if he thrust him about without enmity, or cast any thing upon him unawares, 23. Or any stone, whereof a man may die, and hath not seen it, cast upon him, that he die; and he is not his enemy, neither hath he willed him any evil: 24. Then shall the congregation judge between him that smote, and the avenger of blood in this judgment. 25. And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the avenger of blood, and shall restore him to the city of refuge whither he fled, and there shall he dwell, until the high priest die, whom he hath anointed with the holy oil. 26. And the manslayer shall go forth out of his city of refuge, whither he is fled, 27. And if the avenger of blood find him out of the bounds of his free city, and smite him dead, he shall not be guilty of blood. 28. For he was to remain in his free city until the death of the high priest, and after the death of the high priest to come again to the land of his inheritance. 29. And it shall be a statute unto you in your generations, whither ye dwell. 30. The manslayer shall be put to death after the mouth of two witnesses. A witness shall not answer a soul to death. 31. And ye shall take no reconciliation upon the soul of the manslayer: for he is guilty of death, and he shall surely die. 32. And ye shall not make reconciliation for him that is fled to the city of refuge, that he may come again to dwell in the land, until the priest die. 33. And profane not the land wherein ye dwell. For he that is guilty of blood defileth the land: and the land cannot be reconciled by the blood that is shed therein, except by the blood of him that shed it. 34. Defile not the land wherein ye dwell, wherein I also dwell: for I am the LORD that dwelleth among the children of Israel. (Numbers) Chapter 36 By unequal marriages the inheritance parts are not to be distorted. 1. And the chief fathers of the families of the children of Gilead, the son of Machir, who was the son of Manasseh, of the family of the children of Joseph, came near, and spake before Moses, and before the princes of the chief fathers of the children of Israel. 2. And they said: O Lord, the LORD commanded that the land should be given for an inheritance by lot unto the children of Israel: and thou, my lord, hast commanded by the LORD that the inheritance of Zelaphehad our brother should be given unto his daughters. 3. If any of the tribes of the children of Israel take them to be wives, the inheritance of our father shall be less; and as much as they have shall be added unto the inheritance of the tribe whither they come: so shall the lot of our inheritance be less. 4. And it shall come to pass, when the year of jubile of the children of Israel is come, that their inheritance shall be added unto the inheritance of the tribe where they are: so shall the inheritance of our father be less, as much as they have. 5. And Moses commanded the children of Israel according to the commandment of the LORD, saying, The tribe of the children of Joseph hath spoken right. 6. This is the word which the LORD giveth unto the daughters of Zelaphehad, saying, Let them go free as they please, only that they may go free among the family of their father's tribe, 7. Lest the inheritance of the children of Israel fall from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Israel shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his father. 8. And every daughter that hath an inheritance among the tribes of the children of Israel shall marry one of the seed of her father's tribe, that every one of the children of Israel may inherit his father's inheritance, 9. And let not the inheritance of one tribe fall upon another: but let every man cleave to his inheritance among the tribes of the children of Israel. 10. As the LORD commanded Moses, so did the daughters of Zelaphehad, 11. Mahela, Thirza, Hagla, Milka, and Noa, and freed the children of their cousins, 12. Of the seed of the sons of Manasseh the son of Joseph. So their inheritance remained in the tribe of the family of their father. 13. These are the commandments and the statutes, which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan toward Jericho. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The fifth book of Moses (Deuteronomy) ^ Chapter 1 God's good deeds. Israel's ingratitude. 1. These are the words which Moses spake unto all Israel on the other side Jordan in the wilderness, in the plains over against the Red sea, between Paran and Tophel, Laban, Hazeroth, and Disahab, 2. Eleven days' journey from Horeb by the way of mount Seir unto Kadeshbarnea. 3. And it came to pass in the fortieth year, in the first day of the eleventh month, that Moses spake unto the children of Israel all things, as the LORD commanded him unto them, 4. After he had smitten Sihon king of the Amorites, which dwelt at Heshbon, and Og king of Bashan, which dwelt at Ashtaroth, and at Edrei. 5. Beyond Jordan in the land of Moab Moses began to interpret this law, saying: 6. The LORD our God spake unto us in mount Horeb, saying: Ye have been long enough in this mountain; 7. Turn ye, and go, and come unto the mountains of the Amorites, and unto all their neighbours in the land, upon the mountains, and in the valleys, toward the south, and toward the fords of the sea in the land of Canaan, and unto mount Lebanon, unto the great river Phrath. 8. Behold, I have given you the land which is before you; go in and possess it, which the LORD sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them, and to their seed after them. 9. Then said I unto you at that time: I cannot bear you alone; 10. For the LORD your God hath multiplied you, that ye should be this day as the multitude of the stars of heaven. 11. The LORD God of your fathers make you many thousands more, and bless you, as he hath spoken unto you. 12. How can I alone bear such toil and burden and strife from you? 13. Provide you wise men, and understanding, and experience, among your tribes; and I will set them over you for heads. 14. Then answered ye me, and said, This is a good thing, which thou sayest thou wilt do. 15. Then I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and set them over you for heads, over thousands, over hundreds, over fifties, and over tens, and officers among your tribes; 16. And commanded your judges at that time, saying, Interrogate your brethren, and judge rightly between every man and his brother, and the stranger. 17. No person shall ye regard in judgment, but hear the small as well as the great, and shun no man's person. For the office of judgment is God's. But if any matter be too hard for you, let it come unto me, that I may hear it. 18. So I commanded you at that time all things whatsoever ye should do. 19. And we departed from Horeb, and went through all the wilderness, which is great and terrible, as ye have seen, by the way of the mount of the Amorites, as the LORD our God commanded us, and came unto Kadeshbarnea. 20. Then said I unto you: Ye are come unto the mountain of the Amorites, which the LORD our God shall give us. 21. Behold the land before thee, which the LORD thy God hath given thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD thy fathers' God hath said unto thee. Fear not, nor be dismayed. 22. Then came ye all unto me, and said, Let us send men before us, and let them search out the land for us, and tell us again by what way we shall go in, and the cities where we shall come in. 23. And it pleased me well, and I took from among you twelve men, one of every tribe. 24. And when they departed, and went up into the mountains, and came to the brook Eshcol, they beheld it. 25. And they took the fruit of the land, and brought it down unto us, and told us again, saying: The land is good, which the LORD our God hath given us. 26. But ye would not go up, and became disobedient to the mouth of the LORD your God; 27. And they murmured in their tents, saying, The LORD is displeased with us: therefore he brought us up out of the land of Egypt, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites to be destroyed. 28. Whither shall we go up? Our brethren have made our hearts despondent, saying, The people are greater and higher than we; The cities are great, and walled up to heaven; Moreover we have seen the children of Enakim there. 29. And I said unto you, Be not dismayed, neither be afraid of them. 30. The LORD your God goeth before you, and will fight for you, as he did with you in Egypt before your eyes. 31. And in the wilderness, when thou sawest how the LORD thy God bare thee, as a man beareth his son, through all the way wherein ye walked, until ye came unto this place. 32. But that was nothing to you, that ye believed on the LORD your God, 33. Who went before you to shew you the place where ye should lie down by night in the fire, to shew you the way wherein ye should walk, and by day in the cloud. 34. And when the LORD heard your cry, he was wroth, and sware, and said: 35. None of this evil generation shall see the good land, which I sware to give unto their fathers, 36. Without Caleb the son of Jephunneh, he shall see it: and unto him will I give the land whereon he hath trodden, and unto his children, because he hath faithfully followed the LORD. 37. The LORD also was wroth with me for your sakes, and said, Neither shalt thou come in. 38. But Joshua the son of Nun, which is thy servant, let him come in. Strengthen him: for he shall divide the inheritance unto Israel. 39. And your children, of whom ye said they would be a spoil, and your sons, which this day know neither good nor evil, let them come in: unto them will I give it, and they shall possess it. 40. And ye shall turn, and go into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea. 41. And ye answered and said unto me, We have sinned against the LORD; we will go up and fight, as the LORD our God hath commanded us. And ye armed yourselves every man with his armour, and stood by him to go up into the mountains, 42. Saith the LORD unto me, Tell them that they go not up, neither fight: for I am not among you: lest ye be smitten before your enemies. 43. When I told you these things, ye hearkened not, and became disobedient to the mouth of the LORD, and were presumptuous, and went up into the mountains. 44. And the Amorites that dwelt in the mountains went out to meet you, and chased you as bees do, and smote you in Seir unto Horma. 45. And when ye wept again before the LORD, the LORD would not hear your voice, nor incline his ears unto you. 46. So ye abode in Kadesh a long time. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 2 Of the victory against the Amorites. 1. Then we turned, and went out into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea, as the LORD said unto me, and compassed mount Seir a long time. 2. And the LORD said unto me: 3. Ye have now compassed this mountain enough; turn ye toward the midnight. 4. And give unto the people, saying, Ye shall pass through the border of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you. But keep yourselves with diligence, 5. And ye shall not fight against them: for I will not give you a foot of their land: for I have given mount Seir unto the children of Esau for a possession. 6. Food ye shall buy of them for money, that ye may eat; and water ye shall buy of them for money, that ye may drink. 7. For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thine hands. He hath taken to heart thy journeying through this great wilderness: and forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee, that thou hast lacked nothing. 8. And it came to pass, when we had passed through our brethren the children of Esau, which dwelt in mount Seir, by the way of the plains of Elath and Ezeon-gaber, that we turned, and passed through the way of the wilderness of Moab. 9. And the LORD said unto me, Thou shalt not offend Moab, neither shalt thou make war against Moab: for I will not give thee any possession of their land; for I have given Ar unto the children of Lot for a possession. 10. The Emim dwelt therein of old: they were a great, strong, and high people, like the Enakim. 11. They also were accounted giants, as Enakim: and the Moabites also call them Emim. 12. And the Horites dwelt in Seir in old time: and the children of Esau cast them out, and destroyed them from among them, and dwelt in their stead, as Israel did unto the land of their possession, which the LORD gave them. 13. Now therefore arise, and pass through the brook Sared. And we passed through. 14. And the time that we journeyed from Kadesh-barnea, until we came by the river Sared, was thirty and eight years: that all the men of war might die in the camp, as the LORD had sworn unto them. 15. And the hand of the LORD was against them, to destroy them out of the camp, until they were consumed. 16. And when all the men of war were ended, they died among the people, 17. The LORD spake unto min, saying: 18. Thou shalt pass through the border of Moab this day by Ar; 19. And thou shalt come near against the children of Ammon. Thou shalt not offend them, neither shalt thou make war against them: for I will not give thee of the land of the children of Ammon to possess it; for I have given it unto the children of Lot to possess it. 20. It is also esteemed the land of giants, and giants dwelt therein in time past: and the Ammonites call them Shammesumim. 21. They were a great, strong, and high people, like the Enakims: and the LORD destroyed them from before them, and gave them possession of them, to dwell in their stead, 22. As he did unto Km Esau, which dwell in mount Sein, when he destroyed the Horites from before them, and made them possess them, to dwell in their stead unto this day. 23. And the Caphtorims went out of Caphtor, and destroyed the Avims that dwelt in Hazerim unto Gaza, and dwelt there in their stead. 24. Arise, go forth, and pass over the brook that is by Arnon. Behold, I have delivered into thy hand Sihon king of the Amorites at Heshbon, and his land. Begin to take, and fight against him. 25. This day will I set forth, that all nations under heaven shall fear and be afraid of thee: and when they hear of thee, they shall be afraid and grieved for thy coming. 26. Then I sent messengers out of the wilderness from the east to Sihon king of Heshbon with words of peace, saying: 27. I will pass through thy land, and where the highway goeth, I will go: I will not turn aside to the right hand, nor to the left. 28. Thou shalt sell me meat for money, that I may eat; and thou shalt give me water for money, that I may drink: but I will go through on foot; 29. As the children of Esau, which dwell in his land, and the Moabites, which dwell in An, have done unto me; until I come over Jordan into the land which the LORD our God giveth us. 30. But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass: for the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and hardened his heart, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as it is in the day. 31. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have begun to give Sihon and his land before thee; begin to possess and possess his land. 32. And Sihon went out to meet us, and all his people, to battle at Jahaz. 33. But the LORD our God gave him up before us, that we should smite him with his children, and with all his people. 34. And we took all his cities at that time, and utterly destroyed all his cities, both men, and women, and children, and left none over. 35. Without the cattle we robbed for ourselves, and the spoil of the cities we gained, 36. From Aroer, which is on the bank of the river near Arnon, and from the city that is by the water, even unto Gilead. There was no city that could keep itself from us: the LORD our God gave us all things before us. 37. Without the land of the children of Ammon thou camest not, nor unto all that was by the brook Jabbok, nor unto the cities of the mountains, nor unto all that the LORD our God had forbidden us. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 3 Victory against Og king of Bashan. 1. And we turned, and went up the way to Bashan. And Og king of Bashan went out to meet us, and all his people, to fight at Edrei. 2. And the LORD said unto me, Fear him not: for I have delivered him into thy hand, and all his people with his land; and thou shalt do unto him as thou didst unto Sihon king of the Amorites, which sat at Heshbon. 3. So the LORD our God delivered into our hand Og king of Bashan, and all his people, and we smote him, until there was nothing left for him. 4. And we took all his cities at that time, and there was not a city that we took not from him; threescore cities, all the region of Argob, in the kingdom of Ogs in Bashan. 5. All these cities were strong, with high walls, gates, and bars, without other very many spots without walls. 6. And we utterly destroyed them, as we did Sihon king of Heshbon. And we utterly destroyed all the cities, both men, and women, and children. 7. But all the cattle and spoil of the cities we stole for ourselves. 8. So at that time we took the land out of the hand of the two kings of the Amorites that were on the other side Jordan, from the river of Arnon unto mount Hermon, 9. Whom the Zidonians call Sirion, but the Amorites call him Senir; 10. Cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan, unto Salcah and Edrei, the cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan. 11. For Og king of Bashan alone was left of the giants. Behold, his bed of iron is here in Rabbath of the children of Ammon, nine cubits long, and four cubits broad, according to a man's elbow. 12. And we took the land at that time from Aroer, which is by the river of Arnon. And I gave half the mountains of Gilead with their cities unto the Reubenites and Gadites. 13. And the rest of Gilead, and all Bashan of the kingdom of Og, gave I unto the half tribe of Manasseh, and all the region of Argob unto all Bashan; that is, the land of the giants. 14. And Jair the son of Manasseh took all the region of Argob unto the border of Gessuri and Maachathi; and called Bashan by his name Havoth-jair unto this day. 15. And to Machir I gave Gilead. 16. And to the Reubenites and Gadites I gave a portion of Gilead unto the brook that is by Arnon in the midst of the brook, which is the border, and unto the brook Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon; 17. And the plain, and Jordan, which is the border, from Cinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, which is the salt sea, under mount Pisgah eastward. 18. And he commanded you at that time, saying, The LORD your God hath given you this land to possess: go ye therefore armed before your brethren the children of Israel, which are valiant; 19. Without your wives, and your children, and your cattle (for I know that ye have much cattle), let them abide in your cities which I have given you; 20. Until the LORD also bring your brethren to rest, as he did unto you, that they also may possess the land which the LORD your God shall give them beyond Jordan: then shall ye return unto your possession, which I have given you. 21. And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, Thine eyes have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto these two kings. So shall the LORD do unto all the kingdoms that thou shalt go. 22. Fear them not: for the LORD your God fighteth for you. 23. And I besought the LORD at that time, saying: 24. O LORD, O LORD, thou hast set forth thy glory and thy mighty hand to thy servant. For where is there a God in heaven and in the ends, that can be like unto thy works and like unto thy might? 25. Let me go and see the good land beyond Jordan, this good mountain, and Lebanon. 26. But the LORD was angry with me for your sakes, and hearkened not unto me, but said unto me, Let it be no more; say no more of this unto me. 27. Go up to the top of mount Pisgah, and lift up thine eyes toward the even, and toward the north, and toward the south, and toward the east, and see with thine eyes: for thou shalt not go over this Jordan. 28. And give Joshua charge, that he may be confident and undaunted: for he shall pass over Jordan before the people, and shall divide unto them the land which thou shalt see. 29. So we stayed in the valley against the house of Peor. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 4 Exhortation to obedience of the law. 1. And now hear, O Israel, the commandments and the statutes which I teach you to do them, that ye may live, and come in and possess the land which the LORD your fathers' God giveth you. 2. Ye shall not add unto the things which I command you, neither shall ye take away from them, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you. 3. Your eyes have seen what the LORD hath done against Baal-peor: for all they that followed Baal-peor have destroyed the LORD your God from among you. 4. But ye that cleave unto the LORD your God, live all ye this day. 5. Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye are come to possess it. 6. Keep it therefore, and do it. For this shall be your wisdom and understanding among all nations, when they shall hear all these commandments, that they shall say, Yea, what wise and understanding men are these, and a glorious people! 7. For where is there so glorious a people, to whom gods draw nigh, as the LORD our God, as often as we call upon him? 8. And where is there such a glorious people, having such righteous customs and commandments, as all this law which I set before you this day? 9. Take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul well, that thou forget not the things which thine eyes have seen, and that they come not out of thine heart all thy days. And thou shalt make known unto thy children, and unto thy children's children. 10. The day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in mount Horeb, when the LORD said unto thee, Gather me the people together, that they may hear my words, and learn to fear me all the days of their life upon the earth, and teach their children. 11. And ye came near, and sat down by the mountain: and the mountain burned even to the midst of heaven; and there was darkness, and cloud, and gloom. 12. And the LORD spake unto you out of the midst of the fire. The voice of his words ye heard; but ye saw no likeness without the voice. 13. And he told you his covenant, which he commanded you to do, even the ten words, and wrote them upon two tables of stone. 14. And the LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, and to do them in the land whither ye go to possess it. 15. Take heed therefore unto your souls: for ye saw no likeness of the day that the LORD spake unto you out of the fire of mount Horeb, 16. Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make unto yourselves any graven image, like unto a man, or like unto a woman 17. or cattle on ends, or bird below the sky, 18. or worms on the land, or fish in the water under the end. 19. Lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and see the sun, and the moon, and the stars, all the host of heaven, and fall down, and worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath ordained for all nations under the whole heaven. 20. And the LORD received you, and brought you out of the iron furnace, that is, out of Egypt, to be his people of inheritance, as it is in this day. 21. And the LORD was so wroth with me because of your doings, that he sware that I should not pass over Jordan, neither come into the good land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, 22. But I shall die in this land, and shall not pass over Jordan. But ye shall pass over, and possess such good land. 23. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, that ye forget not the covenant of the LORD your God, which he hath made with you, and that ye make not images of divers likenesses, as the LORD thy God hath commanded. 24. For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, and a fierce God. 25. When ye therefore beget children, and children's children, and dwell in the land, and corrupt yourselves, and make you images of divers likenesses, then ye do evil in the sight of the LORD your God, and provoke him to anger, 26. I call heaven and the end to witness against you this day, that ye shall soon perish from off the land whither ye go up Jordan to possess it: ye shall not long abide therein, but shall be destroyed. 27. And the LORD shall scatter you among the nations, and ye shall be left a small multitude among the heathen, whither the LORD shall drive you. 28. There shalt thou serve gods which are the work of men's hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell. 29. But if thou shalt seek the LORD thy God there, thou shalt find him where thou shalt seek him with all thine heart and with all thy soul. 30. When thou shalt be troubled, and all these things shall befall thee in the last days, then shalt thou turn unto the LORD thy God, and obey his voice. 31. For the LORD thy God is a merciful God: he will not leave thee, nor destroy thee, nor forget the covenant which he sware unto thy fathers. 32. Then inquire of the former times that were before thee, from the day that God created man upon the earth, from one end of heaven to the other, whether such a great thing hath ever been done, or the like thereof ever heard, 33. That a people have heard the voice of God speaking out of the fire, as thou hast heard, and yet live? 34. Or whether God tempted to go in and take a people from the midst of a people by temptation, by signs, by wonders, by strife, and by a mighty hand, and by an outstretched arm, and by very terrible deeds, as all these things the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes? 35. Thou hast seen, that thou mayest know that the LORD alone is GOD, and none more. 36. From heaven he hath made thee to hear his voice, to chasten thee; and upon earth he hath shewed thee his great fire, and his words thou hast heard out of the fire, 37. Because he loved thy fathers, and their seed after them, and brought thee out of Egypt with his great power, 38. To drive out from before thee great nations, and stronger than thou, and to bring thee in, to give thee the land for an inheritance, as it is this day. 39. Know therefore this day, and take it to thine heart, that the LORD is one God in heaven above, and in earth beneath, and none more; 40. To keep his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee this day: and it shall be well with thee, and with thy children after thee, that thy days may be long in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for ever. 41. And Moses separated three cities on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, 42. And he that killeth his neighbour unawares, and hath not been his enemy before, shall flee thither, and live in the cities: 43. Bezer in the wilderness of the plain among the Reubenites; and Ramoth in Gilead among the Gadites; and Golan in Bashan among the Manassites. 44. This is the law which Moses set before the children of Israel. 45. This is the testimony, and the commandment, and the statutes, which Moses spake unto the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt, 46. On the other side Jordan, in the valley over against the house of Peor, in the land of Sihon king of the Amorites, who sat in Heshbon, whom Moses and the children of Israel smote when they came out of Egypt, 47. And they took his land, and the land of Og king of Bashan, of the two kings of the Amorites, which were on the other side Jordan toward the sunrising, 48. From Aroer, which is on the bank of the river by Arnon, unto mount Sion, which is Hermon, 49. And all the plain beyond Jordan, toward the rising of the sun, unto the sea in the plain, under mount Pisgah. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 5 Repetition of the ten commandments of God. 1. And Moses called all Israel, and said unto them: Hear, O Israel, the commandments and the statutes which I speak in your ears this day, and learn them, and keep them, and do them. 2. The LORD our God hath made a covenant with us in Horeb. 3. And hath not made this covenant with our fathers, but with us, who are here this day, and are all alive. 4. He spake unto us face to face out of the fire that was in the mount. 5. I stood between the LORD and you at that time, and told you the word of the LORD: for ye were afraid of the fire, and went not up into the mountain. And he said: 6. I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 7. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. 8. Thou shalt not make thee any graven image, neither in heaven above, nor in the earth beneath, nor in the water under the earth. 9. Thou shalt not worship them, nor serve them. For I am the LORD thy God, a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children of the third and fourth generation, which hate me, 10. And show mercy in many thousands who love me and keep my commandments. 11. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain: for the LORD will not suffer him to go unpunished that taketh his name in vain. 12. The sabbath day shalt thou keep holy, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee. 13. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work. 14. But on the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not do any work, neither thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor all thy cattle, nor the stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest, as thou hast rested. 15. For thou shalt remember that thou also wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out from thence with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD thy God hath commanded thee to keep the sabbath day. 16. Thou shalt honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God commanded thee, that thou mayest live long, and that it may go well with thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. 17. Thou shalt not kill. 18. thou shalt not commit adultery 19. thou shalt not steal. 20. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. 21. Lust not after thy neighbour's wife. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, his field, his manservant, his maidservant, his ox, his ass, nor any thing that is his. 22. These are the words which the LORD spake unto all your congregation in the mount out of the fire, and out of the cloud, and out of the darkness, with a loud voice, and did nothing: and he wrote them upon two tables of stone, and gave them unto me. 23. And when ye heard the voice out of the darkness, and the mountain burning with fire, ye came unto me, all the chief of your tribes, and your elders, 24. And said, Behold, the LORD our God hath made us to see his glory and his majesty; and we have heard his voice out of the fire: this day have we seen that God speaketh unto men, and they live. 25. And now why should we die, that this great fire should consume us? If we hear the voice of the LORD our God any more, we must die. 26. For what is all flesh, that it may hear the voice of the living God speaking out of the fire, as we do, and live? 27. Come near, and hear all that the LORD our God saith, and tell us. Whatsoever the LORD our God shall speak unto thee, that will we hear and do. 28. And when the LORD heard your words which ye spake unto me, he said unto me, I have heard the words of this people, which they spake unto thee: all that they have spoken is good. 29. Oh that they had such a heart to fear me, and to keep all my commandments all the days of their life, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever! 30. Go and tell them: Go home to your tents. 31. And thou shalt stand here before me, and I will speak unto thee all the statutes, and all the commandments, and all the judgments, which thou shalt teach them, that they may do them in the land which I shall give them to possess. 32. Keep therefore that ye do according to all that the LORD your God hath commanded you, and turn not aside to the right hand, nor to the left, 33. But walk in all the ways which the LORD your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may live long in the land which ye shall inherit. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 6 Explanation of the first commandment, of the love of God. 1. Now these are the statutes, and the commandments, and the judgments, which the LORD your God hath commanded, that ye should learn them, and do them, in the land whither ye go to possess it. 2. That thou fear the LORD thy God, and keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, all the days of your life, that ye may live long. 3. Israel, hear thou, and keep thee, that thou mayest prosper, and be greatly multiplied; as the LORD God of thy fathers hath spoken unto thee, a land flowing with milk and honey within. 4. Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God is one LORD. 5. And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6. And these words, which I command thee this day, shalt thou lay to thine heart. 7. And thou shalt teach them unto thy children, and speak of them when thou sittest in thine house, or when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, or when thou risest up. 8. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be a memorial unto thee before thine eyes. 9. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and upon the gates thereof. 10. Now therefore, when the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give thee great cities and fine cities, which thou hast not built, 11. And houses full of goods, which thou hast not filled; and wells digged, which thou hast not digged; and vineyards and oliveyards, which thou hast not planted, that thou mayest eat and be full: 12. Take heed to thyself, lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, 13. But fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and swear by his name. 14. And thou shalt not go after other gods, of the nations that are round about you; 15. For the LORD thy God is a fierce God among thee: lest the wrath of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the earth. 16. Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him at Massa, 17. But keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes which he hath commanded, 18. To do that which is right and good in the sight of the LORD, that it may go well with thee, and that thou mayest enter in and possess the good land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, 19. To drive out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD hath said. 20. If thy son therefore shall ask thee to day, or to morrow, saying, What are these testimonies, and commandments, and statutes, which the LORD our God hath commanded you? 21. Then shalt thou say unto thy son, We were servants of Pharaoh in Egypt, and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand; 22. And the LORD wrought great and evil signs and wonders in Egypt, and in Pharaoh, and in all his house, in our sight; 23. And he led us away from thence, that he might bring us in, and give us the land which he sware unto our fathers; 24. And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, that we should fear the LORD our God, that it might go well with us all the days of our life, as it is this day. 25. And it shall be our righteousness before the LORD our God, if we keep and do all these commandments, as he hath commanded us. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 7 Friendship with the heathen and their idolatry forbidden. 1. When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and shalt cut off many nations from before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgothites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and stronger than thou; 2. And if the LORD thy God give them before thee to smite them, then thou shalt banish them, that thou make no covenant with them, nor shew them favour. 3. And thou shalt not make friends with them. Your daughters you shall not give to their sons, and their daughters you shall not take from your sons; 4. For they shall make your sons to offend me, to serve other gods: and the wrath of the LORD shall be kindled against you, and shall soon destroy you. 5. But so shall ye do unto them: You shall tear down their altars, break their pillars, cut down their groves, and burn their idols with fire. 6. For thou art a holy people unto God thy Lord. God thy Lord hath chosen thee a people of possession out of all the nations that are upon the earth. 7. The LORD hath not accepted you, neither chosen you to be more than all nations: for thou art the least of all nations; 8. But because he loved you, and kept his oath which he sware unto your fathers, he brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, out of the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. 9. Know therefore that the LORD thy God is a God, a faithful God, keeping covenant and mercy with them that love him, and keeping his commandments to a thousand generations, 10. And he hateth them that hate him before his face to destroy them, and is not slow to recompense them before his face that hate him. 11. Keep therefore the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which I command thee this day, to do them. 12. And if ye shall hear these statutes, and keep them, and do them; then shall the LORD thy God also keep the covenant and the mercy which he sware unto thy fathers, 13. And he will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee, and bless the fruit of thy womb, and the fruit of thy land, thy corn, and thy wine, and thy oil, the fruit of thy kine, and the fruit of thy sheep, in the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee. 14. Blessed shalt thou be above all nations. There shall be none barren among thee, Nor among thy cattle. 15. The LORD will put away from thee all sickness, and will not put upon thee any evil plague of the Egyptians, which thou hast known; and will put it upon all thy haters. 16. Thou shalt devour all the nations which the LORD thy God giveth thee. Thou shalt not spare them, nor serve their gods: for it shall be a snare unto thee. 17. But wilt thou say in thine heart, This people is more than I am: how can I drive them out? 18. Be not afraid of them. Remember what the LORD thy God hath done to Pharaoh and to all the Egyptians. 19. By great temptation, which thou sawest with thine eyes, and by signs and wonders, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, that the LORD thy GOD might bring thee out. So shall the LORD thy God do unto all nations, of whom thou art afraid. 20. And the LORD thy God shall send a hornet among them, until they that are left be destroyed, and hide themselves from thee. 21. Be not afraid of them: for the LORD thy God is among thee, the great and terrible God. 22. He, the LORD thy God, shall cut off these people from before thee one by one. Thou canst not destroy them in haste, lest the beasts of the field multiply against thee. 23. The LORD thy God shall give them up before thee, and shall smite them with a great slaughter, until he destroy them. 24. And thou shalt deliver their kings into thy hand, and shalt destroy their name under heaven. No man shall withstand thee, till thou destroy them. 25. The graven images of their gods shalt thou burn with fire; thou shalt not covet any of the silver or gold that is therein, neither shalt thou take it unto thee, lest thou be consumed therein: for it is an abomination unto the LORD thy God. 26. Thou shalt not therefore bring the abomination into thine house, lest thou be utterly destroyed, as it is: but thou shalt be loathsome and abominable unto it, because it is utterly destroyed. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 8 The people are exhorted not to forget the good deeds of God. 1. All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye keep, and do them; that ye may live, and be multiplied, and come in, and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers. 2. And remember all the way wherein the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to try thee, that it might be known what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments or not. 3. He humbled thee, and caused thee to hunger, and fed thee with man, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread alone, but by all that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD. 4. Thy garments are not old upon thee, neither are thy feet swollen these forty years. 5. Know thou then in thine heart, that the LORD thy God hath drawn thee, as a man draweth his son. 6. Keep therefore the commandments of the LORD thy God, that thou walk in his ways, and fear him. 7. For the LORD thy God leadeth thee into a good land, a land that hath rivers, and fountains, and lakes within, that flow in the mountains, and in the meadows; 8. A land of wheat, and barley, and vines, and fig trees, and pomegranates, in the midst thereof; a land of olive trees, and honey in the midst thereof; 9. A land where thou hast bread enough to eat, where thou lackest nothing: a land whose stones are iron, where thou hewest brass out of the mountains. 10. And when thou hast eaten and art full, that thou mayest praise the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. 11. Take heed therefore that thou forget not the LORD thy God, lest thou keep his commandments, and his statutes, and his judgments, which I command thee this day; 12. That when thou hast eaten, and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein, 13. And thy oxen, and thy sheep, and thy silver, and thy gold, and all that thou hast, shall multiply, 14. Then let not thine heart be lifted up, and forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, 15. And he led thee through the great and cruel wilderness, where were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, and no water: and he caused water to pass out of the hard rock unto thee, 16. And fed thee with Man in the wilderness, of whom thy fathers knew nothing, that he might humble thee, and try thee, that he might do thee good hereafter. 17. Or else thou shalt say in thine heart, My strength, and the strength of mine hands, have gotten me this fortune; 18. But remember the LORD thy God: for he it is that giveth thee strength to do mighty works, to keep his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. 19. But if thou shalt forget the LORD thy God, and shalt go after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day, that ye shall perish; 20. Even as the heathen which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye also perish, because ye obey not the voice of the LORD your God. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 9 Causes of the taking of the land of Canaan. 1. Hear, O Israel, thou shalt pass over Jordan this day, to come in to possess the nations that are greater and stronger than thou, great cities walled up to heaven, 2. A great and high nation, the children of Enakim, whom thou hast known, of whom also thou hast heard: who can stand against the children of Enak? 3. Know thou this day, that the LORD thy God goeth before thee, a devouring fire. He shall destroy them, and subdue them before thee, and shall drive them out, and destroy them quickly, as the LORD hath said unto thee. 4. If therefore the LORD thy God hath driven them out from before thee, say not in thine heart, The LORD hath brought me in to possess the land for my righteousness' sake: for the LORD hath driven out these heathen from before thee for their ungodliness. 5. For thou comest not in to possess their land, because of thy righteousness and uprightness of heart: but the LORD thy God doth drive out these heathen for their ungodliness, to keep the word which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 6. Know therefore that the LORD thy God giveth thee not this good land to possess for thy righteousness' sake, because thou art a stiff-necked people. 7. Remember and forget not how thou didst provoke the LORD thy God to anger in the wilderness. From the day that thou camest forth out of the land of Egypt, until ye came into this place, ye were disobedient to the LORD. 8. For in Horeb ye provoked the LORD to anger, that he might destroy you with wrath; 9. When I went up into the mount to receive the tables of stone, the tables of the covenant which the LORD made with you, I tarried forty days and forty nights in the mount, neither eating bread, nor drinking water, 10. And the LORD gave me the two tables of stone, written with the finger of God, and all the words thereon, as the LORD spake unto you out of the fire of the mount in the day of the congregation. 11. And after forty days and forty nights the LORD gave me the two tables of stone of the covenant. 12. And he said unto me, Arise, go down quickly from hence: for thy people, which thou broughtest up out of Egypt, have perished. They are gone quickly out of the way which I commanded them: they have made them a molten image. 13. And the LORD said unto me, I see that this people is a stiff-necked people. 14. Depart from me, that I may destroy them, and blot out their name from under heaven; and I will make of thee a stronger and a greater nation than this. 15. And when I turned, and came out of the mountain that burned with fire, having the two tables of the covenant upon both my hands, 16. Then I looked, and, behold, ye had sinned against the LORD your God, in that ye had made for yourselves a cast calf, and had soon turned out of the way which the LORD commanded you. 17. Then I took hold of both tables, and cast them out of both hands, and brake them in pieces before your eyes. 18. And fell down before the LORD, as at first, forty days and forty nights, and did neither eat bread, nor drink water, because of all your sins which ye did, when ye did this evil in the sight of the LORD to provoke him to anger. 19. For I was afraid of wrath and anger, because the LORD was wroth with you to destroy you. But the LORD hearkened unto me this time also. 20. And the LORD was very wroth with Aaron, to destroy him: but I prayed also for Aaron in that day. 21. But your sin, the calf which ye had made, took I, and burned it with fire, and brake it in pieces, and brake it in pieces, until it became dust, and cast the dust into the brook that floweth down from the mountain. 22. And so ye provoked the LORD to anger at Thabeera, and at Massa, and at the tombs of pleasure. 23. And when he sent you out of Kadeshbarnea, saying, Go up and possess the land which I have given you, ye have disobeyed the mouth of the LORD your God, and have not believed in him, neither have ye obeyed his voice. 24. For ye have been disobedient to the LORD all the days that I have known you. 25. And I fell down before the LORD forty days and forty nights, which I lay there: for the LORD said he would destroy you. 26. And I besought the LORD, saying, O LORD, O LORD, destroy not thy people and thine inheritance, which thou hast redeemed by thy great power, and hast brought out of Egypt with a mighty hand. 27. Remember thy servants, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Look not to the hardness and wickedness and sin of this people, 28. Lest the land from whence thou hast brought us should be spoken of: The LORD was not able to bring them into the land which he spake unto them: therefore he brought them out, because he was displeased with them, and slew them in the wilderness. 29. For they are thy people, and thine inheritance, which thou hast executed with thy great strength, and with thine outstretched arm. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 10 The renewal of the covenant is to provoke Israel to the love of God. 1. At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone, like unto the first, and come unto me into the mountain, and make thee a fine ark of wood, 2. Then will I write upon the tables the words that were upon the first which thou hast broken; and thou shalt put them in the ark. 3. So I made an ark of pine wood, and cut two tables of stone, as the first were, and went up into the mountain, and had the two tables in mine hands. 4. And he wrote upon the tables, as the first writing was, the ten words which the LORD spake unto you out of the fire of the mount in the time of the assembly: and the LORD gave them unto me. 5. And I turned, and departed from the mount, and put the tables in the ark which I had made, that they might be there, as the LORD commanded me. 6. And the children of Israel went out from Beroth-bne-jakan unto Moser. And Aaron died there, and is buried there: and Eleazar his son was priest for him. 7. And they went out from thence unto Gudegodah; and from Gudegodah unto Jathbath, a land of rivers. 8. At that time the LORD set apart the tribe of Levi to bear the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and to stand before the LORD, to serve him, and to praise his name, unto this day. 9. Therefore the Levites shall have no part nor inheritance with their brethren: for the LORD is their inheritance, as the LORD thy God hath spoken unto them. 10. And I stood in the mount, as before, forty days and forty nights: and the LORD hearkened unto me that time also, and would not destroy thee. 11. And he said unto me, Arise, and go, that thou mayest go before the people, that they may come in and possess the land which I sware unto their fathers to give them. 12. Now therefore, O Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, and to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul? 13. To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day, that it may go well with thee? 14. Behold, the heaven, and all the heavens, and the earth, and all that is therein, are the LORD thy God's. 15. Nor did he delight in thy fathers only, to love them, and to multiply their seed after them, even after you, above all nations, as it is this day. 16. Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be not stiffnecked henceforth. 17. For the LORD your God is a God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, mighty and terrible, esteeming no man, and taking no gift 18. And rendereth justice unto the fatherless and to the widow, and loveth the stranger, that he may give them meat and raiment. 19. Wherefore love ye also the strangers: for ye were strangers also in the land of Egypt. 20. The LORD thy God shalt thou fear, and him shalt thou serve, and him shalt thou cleave unto, and by his name shalt thou swear. 21. He is thy glory, and thy God, which hath done with thee such great and terrible things as thine eyes have seen. 22. Thy fathers went down into Egypt with seventy souls: but now the LORD thy God hath multiplied thee as the stars of heaven. Chapter 11 Causes why to love God and keep His commandments. 1. Thou shalt therefore love the LORD thy God, and keep his law, and his statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments, all the days of thy life. 2. And know ye this day, which your children know not, neither have seen; the chastening of the LORD your God, his glory, and his mighty hand, and his outstretched arm. 3. And his signs and his works, which he did among the Egyptians, to Pharaoh king of Egypt, and to all his land; 4. And what he did in the power of the Egyptians, in their horses, and in their chariots, when he brought upon them the waters of the Red sea, when they pursued after you, and the LORD destroyed them, unto this day; 5. And what he did unto you in the wilderness, until ye came into this place; 6. As he did unto Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab the son of Reuben, when the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their household, and their tents, and all their substance that they had gotten in the midst of all Israel. 7. For your eyes have seen the great works of the LORD, which he hath done. 8. Therefore ye shall keep all the commandments which I command thee this day, that ye may be strengthened to come in and possess the land whither ye go to possess it; 9. And that thou mayest live long in the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers to give them, and to their seed, a land flowing with milk and honey. 10. For the land whither thou goest to possess it is not like the land of Egypt, from whence ye went forth, when thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst thyself like a cabbage garden, 11. But it hath mountains and meadows, which the rain from heaven must water, 12. The land of which the LORD thy God is mindful, and the eyes of the LORD thy God are ever upon it from the beginning of the year even unto the end. 13. Will ye therefore hear my commandments which I command you this day, that ye love the LORD your God, and serve him with all your heart and with all your soul? 14. Then will I give rain unto your land in his season, the early rain, and the latter rain; and thou shalt gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil; 15. And I will give thy cattle grass in thy field, and ye shall eat and be filled. 16. But beware lest your hearts be persuaded, and ye depart, and serve other gods, and worship them, 17. And then the wrath of the LORD be kindled against you, and shut up the heavens, that there come no rain, neither let the earth yield her increase, and ye perish quickly from off the good land which the LORD hath given you. 18. Take therefore these words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be a memorial before your eyes. 19. And teach them unto your children, that ye speak of them when thou sittest in thine house, or when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 20. And write them upon the posts of thy house, and upon thy gates, 21. That thou and thy children mayest live long in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give them, as long as the days of heaven shall endure upon the earth. 22. For if ye will keep all these commandments which I command you, to do them, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to cleave unto him, 23. Then shall the LORD drive out all these nations from before you, that ye may possess greater and stronger nations than ye are. 24. All the places whereon the sole of your foot shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness, and from mount Lebanon, and from the river Phrath unto the uttermost part of the sea, shall be your border. 25. No man shall be able to withstand you. The fear and dread of you shall the LORD bring upon all the earth wherein ye travel, as he hath spoken unto you. 26. Behold, I set before you this day the blessing and the curse: 27. The blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you this day; 28. But the curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, and turn aside from the way which I command you this day, to walk after other gods, which ye know not. 29. When the LORD thy God bringeth thee into the land which thou goest in to possess it, then thou shalt pronounce a blessing upon mount Grisim, and a curse upon mount Ebal, 30. Which are beyond Jordan by the way of the going down of the sun, in the land of the Canaanites, which dwell in the plain over against Gilgal, by the grove of More. 31. For thou shalt pass over Jordan, to possess the land which the LORD thy God hath given thee, to possess it, and to dwell therein. 32. Take heed therefore to do according to all the commandments and statutes which I set before you this day. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 12 Place and manner of true worship. 1. These are the commandments and the statutes which ye shall keep, to do them in the land which the LORD God of thy fathers hath given thee to possess all the days that ye shall live upon the earth. 2. Cast out all the places where the heathen which ye shall take have served their gods, whether on high mountains, or on hills, or under green trees; 3. And destroy their altars, and break down their pillars, and burn their groves with fire; and take away the idols of their gods, and destroy their name out of the same place. 4. Ye shall not do so unto the LORD your God, 5. But in the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes, to put his name there, ye shall search, and come thither. 6. And your burnt offerings, and your other sacrifices, and your tithes, and the offerings of your hands, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, and the firstborn of your oxen and of your sheep, bring ye thither. 7. And there ye shall eat before the LORD your God, and be glad in all that ye bring, and in all that your house bring, wherein the LORD your God hath blessed you. 8. Ye shall do none of those things which we do here this day, every man whatsoever he thinketh good. 9. For ye are not yet come to the rest, nor to the inheritance which the LORD thy God shall give thee. 10. And ye shall pass over Jordan, and dwell in the land which the LORD your God shall give you for an inheritance, and shall give you rest from all your enemies round about you, and shall dwell safely. 11. And it shall come to pass, when the LORD thy God shall choose a place for his name to dwell there, that ye shall bring there all that I command you, your burnt offerings, and your other sacrifices, and your tithes, and the offering of your hands, and all your free vows, which ye shall vow unto the LORD. 12. And ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God, ye, and your sons, and your daughters, and your menservants, and your maidservants, and the Levites that are within your gates: for they have no part nor inheritance with you. 13. Beware lest thou offer thy burnt offerings in all the places which thou seest, 14. But in the place which the LORD shall name in any of thy tribes, there shalt thou offer thy burnt offering, and do all that I command thee. 15. But thou mayest slay, and eat flesh in all thy gates, according to all the pleasure of thy soul, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God, which he hath given thee: both the clean and the unclean may eat it, as the deer, or as the hart. 16. Without the blood thou shalt not eat, but shalt pour it upon the earth as water. 17. But thou shalt not eat within thy gates of the tenth of thy corn, or of thy wine, or of thine oil, or of the firstborn of thy oxen, or of thy sheep, or of any of thy vows which thou hast vowed, or of thy freewill offerings, or of the heave of thine hand; 18. But thou shalt eat these things before the LORD thy God in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen, thou, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and thy menservants, and thy maidservants, and the Levite that is within thy gates: and thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God over all that thou bringest. 19. And beware lest thou trust the Levites all the days of thy life upon the earth. 20. And if the LORD thy God shall enlarge thy border, as he hath said unto thee, saying, I will eat flesh, because thy soul lusteth to eat flesh; then eat flesh according to all the desire of thy soul. 21. And if the place be far from thee, which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put his name there, then kill of thy oxen or of thy sheep, which the LORD hath given thee, as I commanded thee, and eat within thy gates according to all the pleasure of thy soul. 22. As one eateth a deer or a hart, so mayest thou eat it: both the clean and the unclean may eat it at the same time. 23. Only take heed that thou eat not the blood: for the blood is the soul: therefore shalt thou not eat the soul with the flesh, 24. But thou shalt pour it upon the earth, as water. 25. And thou shalt not eat it, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, because thou hast done that which is right in the sight of the LORD. 26. But if thou wilt sanctify any of thine own, or vow, thou shalt load it, and bring it into the place which the LORD hath mentioned, 27. And thou shalt offer thy burnt offering of flesh and blood upon the altar of the LORD thy God. The blood of thy sacrifice thou shalt pour upon the altar of the LORD thy God, and shalt eat the flesh thereof. 28. Observe, and hear all these words which I command thee, that it may be well with thee, and with thy children after thee for ever, that thou hast done that which is right and acceptable in the sight of the LORD thy God. 29. When the LORD thy God shall cut off the heathen from before thee, and thou shalt come to possess them, and shalt possess them, and shalt dwell in their land, 30. Take heed lest thou fall into the snare after them, after they are destroyed from before thee, and ask not after their gods, saying, As these nations have served their gods, so will I do. 31. Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for they have done unto their gods all that is abomination to the LORD, and that he hateth: for they have burned their sons and their daughters with fire unto their gods. 32. All things whatsoever I command you, that shall ye observe to do. You shall not add to it, nor take away from it. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 13 Punishment of false prophets, deceivers and seducers. 1. if a prophet or a dreamer among you will arise and give you a sign or a miracle, 2. And the sign or the miracle cometh, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which ye know not, and serve them: 3. Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of such a prophet, or of such a dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God doth tempt you, that he may know whether ye love him with all your heart, and with all your soul. 4. For ye shall follow the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and serve him, and cleave unto him. 5. But the prophet, or the dreamer of dreams, shall die, because he hath taught you to fall away from the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, and deceived you out of the way; whom the LORD your God commanded to walk in, that thou mightest put away evil from among you. 6. If thy brother thy mother's son, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the woman that is in thine arms, or thy friend that is like unto thy heart, persuade thee privily, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou knowest not, nor thy fathers, 7. Which are among the nations round about you, whether they be near thee or far off, from one end of the earth even unto the other: 8. Then grant not, neither obey him. Neither let thine eye spare him, neither have mercy on him, nor hide him, 9. But thou shalt slay him. And thine hand shall be first upon him to slay him, and afterward the hand of all the people. 10. He shall be stoned to death, because he hath seduced thee from the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt from the house of bondage, 11. That all Israel may hear, and fear; and that there be no more such evil among you. 12. When thou shalt hear of any city which the LORD thy God hath given thee to dwell therein, that it shall be said: 13. Some of the children of Belial are gone out from among thee, and have deceived the inhabitants of their city, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which ye know not, 14. Then shalt thou diligently seek, and search, and inquire. And if the truth be found, that it is certain that the abomination is done among you, 15. Then shalt thou smite the inhabitants of that city with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroy them, and all that is therein, and their cattle with the edge of the sword. 16. And thou shalt gather all the spoil thereof into the midst of the streets, and burn them with fire, both the city and all the spoil thereof together, unto the LORD thy God; and it shall lie in a heap for ever, and never be built. 17. And let none of the curse be upon thy hand, that the LORD may turn away the fierceness of his wrath, and give thee mercy, and have compassion on thee, and multiply thee, as he sware unto thy fathers, 18. Because thou hast obeyed the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep all his commandments, which I command thee this day, to do that which is right in the sight of the LORD thy God. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 14 Mourning, dining, and tithing ordinances. 1. Ye are the children of the LORD your God: ye shall not pierce yourselves with marks, neither shall ye shave your eyes above a dead man. 2. For thou art a holy people unto the LORD thy God: and the LORD hath chosen thee to be his own out of all the nations that are upon the earth. 3. thou shalt not eat abomination. 4. And this is the beast which ye shall eat: oxen, sheep, goats, 5. deer, roe deer, buffalo, ibex, tenderloin, urochs and eland 6. And every beast that divideth his hoof, and cheweth the cud thereof, ye shall eat. 7. But that which cheweth the cud, and divideth not the hoof, ye shall not eat. And the camel, and the hare, and the rabbit, which cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof, shall be unclean unto you. 8. The swine, though he cleave the hoof, yet chew the cud not, shall be unclean unto you. Ye shall not eat their flesh, neither shall ye touch their carcase. 9. This is that ye shall eat of every thing that is in the waters: every thing that hath raft feathers and scales ye shall eat. 10. But whatsoever hath not the feathers of a raft, nor the scales thereof, eat ye not: for it is unclean unto you. Eleven: Eat all clean birds. 12. And these are they which ye shall not eat: the eagle, and the hawk, and the fishhawk; 13. the diver, the harrier, the vulture with his kind 14. and all ravens with their kind, 15. the ostrich, the night owl, the cuckoo, the sparrowhawk with its kind, 16. the little owl, the eagle owl, the bat, 17. the bittern, the stork, the swan, 18. the heron, the jay with its kind, the hoopoe, the swallow; 19. And every fowl that creepeth shall be unclean unto you, and ye shall not eat it. 20. The clean fowl ye shall eat. 21. Ye shall eat no carcase: thou shalt give it to the stranger that is within thy gates to eat, or sell it to a stranger: for thou art a holy people unto the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not boil the kid, because it is still suckling its mother. 22. Thou shalt set apart tithes every year of all the increase of thy seed which cometh out of thy field; 23. And thou shalt eat it before the LORD thy God in the place which he hath named, that his name may dwell there: of the tenth of thy corn, and of thy wine, and of thy oil, and of the firstborn of thy oxen and of thy sheep; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God all the days of thy life. 24. But if the way be too much for thee, that thou canst not carry it, because the place is too far from thee, which the LORD thy God hath chosen to make his name dwell there (for the LORD thy God hath blessed thee), 25. Give it for money, and take the money in thine hand, and go into the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen, 26. And give money for all that thy soul lusteth after, whether it be oxen, or sheep, or wine, or strong drink, or any thing that thy soul desireth. And there eat before the LORD thy God, and be merry, thou and thy house. 27. And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not leave him, because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee. 28. For three years thou shalt set apart all the tithes of thine income of that year, and shalt leave them in thy gate. 29. Then shall the Levite, which hath no part nor inheritance with thee, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, come and eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the works of thine hand which thou doest. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 15 Of the year, sold servants and firstborn. 1. For seven years shalt thou keep a year of remission. 2. And this is the manner of the year of remission: if a man borrow aught of his neighbour, he shall remit it unto him, and shall not exaction it of his neighbour, or of his brother: for it is called a year of remission unto the LORD. 3. Of a stranger thou mayest remit it: but of him that is thy brother thou shalt remit it. 4. There shall no beggar be among you: for the LORD shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance; 5. Only obey the voice of the LORD thy God, and keep all these commandments, which I command thee this day, to do them. 6. For the LORD thy God shall bless thee, as he hath spoken unto thee. Thus shalt thou lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow of any. Thou shalt rule over many nations, and over thee shall no man rule. 7. If any of thy brethren be poor in any city of thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, harden not thine heart, nor stay thine hand against thy poor brother, 8. But thou shalt open them unto him, and lend unto him according to his lack. 9. Beware lest there be an evil spirit in thine heart, saying, The seventh year, the year of remission, draweth nigh, and looketh unkindly upon thy poor brother, and giveth him not; and he shall cry unto the LORD against thee, and thou shalt have sin; 10. But thou shalt give unto him, and not grieve thine heart to give unto him: for because of this the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou doest. 11. There shall always be poor in the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Open thine hand unto thy brother that is oppressed and poor in thy land. 12. If thy brother, an Eberian, or an Eberian woman, sell himself unto thee, he shall serve thee six years: in the seventh year thou shalt let him go free. 13. And when thou shalt let him go free, thou shalt not let him go empty from thee, 14. But thou shalt lay up for him of thy flock, of thy threshingfloor, and of thy winepress, to give of that which the LORD thy God hath blessed thee. 15. And remember that thou also wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God redeemed thee: therefore I command thee this day. 16. And if he shall say unto thee: I will not depart from thee; for I love thee and thy house: for he is well with thee, 17. So take an awl, and bend it through his ear at the door, and let him be thy servant for ever. Thou shalt do likewise with thine handmaid. 18. And let it not seem hard unto thee, that thou shouldest let him go free: for he hath served thee as a twofold hired servant six years: so shall the LORD thy God bless thee in all that thou doest. 19. Every firstborn that is born among thy oxen and among thy sheep, which is a male, thou shalt sanctify unto the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not till the firstlings of thine oxen, neither shalt thou feed the firstlings of thy sheep. 20. Thou shalt eat them before the LORD thy God yearly in the place which the LORD hath named, thou and thy house. 21. But if it have any blemish, limping, or blind, or any evil defect, thou shalt not offer it unto the LORD thy God, 22. But in thy gate shalt thou eat it, whether thou be unclean or clean, as the deer and the hart; 23. Only thou shalt not eat of his blood, but shalt pour it upon the earth as water. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 16 Of the three main annual festivals. 1. Keep the moon of Abib, to keep the passover unto the LORD thy God: for in the moon of Abib the LORD thy God brought thee up out of Egypt by night. 2. And thou shalt kill the passover unto the LORD thy God, sheep and oxen, in the place which the LORD shall choose to put his name there. 3. Thou shalt not eat leavened bread at the feast. Seven days thou shalt eat unleavened bread of affliction: for thou camest forth out of the land of Egypt with fear, that thou mayest remember the day of thy going forth out of the land of Egypt all thy days. 4. No leavened meat shall be seen within all thy borders seven days: neither shall any of the flesh that is slain in the evening of the first day remain overnight until the morning. 5. Thou canst not kill the passover in any of thy gates, which the LORD thy God hath given thee, 6. But in the place which the LORD thy God shall choose for his name to dwell there, thou shalt kill the passover at even, when the sun is down, at the time that thou camest out of Egypt; 7. And thou shalt cook it, and eat it in the place which the LORD thy God shall choose; and afterward thou shalt turn in the morning, and go unto thy tabernacle. 8. Six days shalt thou eat unleavened meat: and on the seventh day is the convocation of the LORD thy God: thou shalt do no work therein. 9. Seven weeks shalt thou number thyself, and begin to number them, when they begin to cut the sickle in the seed. 10. And thou shalt keep the feast of weeks unto the LORD thy God, to give a freewill offering of thine hand, after that the LORD thy God hath blessed thee; 11. And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy servant, and thy maid, and the Levite that is within thy gates, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that are among thee, in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to put his name there. 12. And remember that thou wast a servant in Egypt, to keep and to do according to these commandments. 13. The feast of tabernacles shalt thou keep seven days, when thou hast gathered in thy threshingfloor and thy winepress; 14. And thou shalt rejoice at thy feast, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that are within thy gates. 15. Seven days shalt thou keep the feast unto the LORD thy God in the place which the LORD shall choose. For the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all thine income, and in all the works of thine hands: therefore shalt thou rejoice. 16. Three times in the year shall all the male of thee appear before the LORD thy God in the place which the LORD shall choose: in the feast of unleavened bread, in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles. But it shall not appear empty before the LORD, 17. Every man according to the gift of his hand, according to the blessing which the LORD thy God hath given thee. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 17 Appointment, election and office of judges, especially of a king. 18. Judges and officers shalt thou set thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God shall give thee among thy tribes, to judge the people with judgment. 19. Thou shalt not bend the law, neither shalt thou look upon any person, nor take any gift: for gifts blind the wise, and pervert the things of the righteous. 20. That which is right thou shalt pursue, that thou mayest live, and possess the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. 21. Thou shalt not plant a grove of trees by the altar of the LORD thy God, which thou shalt make thee. 22. Thou shalt not set thee up a pillar, which the LORD thy God hateth. Ch. 17, v. 1. Thou shalt not sacrifice unto the LORD thy God an ox or a sheep that hath blemish or any evil thing in it: for it is an abomination unto the LORD thy God. 2. If there be found among thee in the gates which the LORD thy God giveth thee, any man or woman that doeth evil in the sight of the LORD thy God, to transgress his covenant. 3. And go and serve other gods, and worship them, whether they be the sun, or the moon, or any host of heaven, which I have not commanded, 4. And if it be told thee, and thou hear it, thou shalt inquire of it. And if thou find that it is true that such an abomination hath been done in Israel, 5. Then shalt thou bring forth the same man or woman that hath done this evil unto thy gate, and shalt stone them to death. 6. In the mouth of two witnesses, or in the mouth of three witnesses, he that is worthy of death shall die: but in the mouth of one witness he shall not die. 7. The hand of the witnesses shall be first to slay him, and afterward the hand of all the people, that thou put away the wicked from thee. 8. If any matter be grievous unto thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between commerce and commerce, between hurt and hurt, and whatsoever strife there be in thy gates, then thou shalt arise, and go up to the place which the LORD thy God shall choose thee, 9. And come to the priests, and to the Levites, and to the judge that shall be at that time, and ask; and they shall pronounce judgment unto thee. 10. And thou shalt do according to all that they tell thee in the place which the LORD hath mentioned, and shalt observe to do according to all that they shall teach thee. 11. According to the law which they teach thee, and according to the statute which they tell thee, thou shalt keep it, that thou depart not from it to the right hand, nor to the left. 12. And if any man act presumptuously, that he obey not the priest which is there in the office of the LORD thy God, or the judge, he shall die: and thou shalt put away the wicked from Israel. 13. That all the people may hear, and fear, and be no more presumptuous. 14. When thou shalt come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, as all the nations have over me, 15. Then shalt thou make him king over thee, whom the LORD thy God shall choose. But thou shalt set one of thy brethren to be king over thee. Thou canst not set over thee any stranger that is not thy brother. 16. But that he keep not many horses, neither bring the people again into Egypt, because of the multitude of horses: for the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall not come again by this way. 17. Neither shall he take many wives, lest his heart be turned away: neither shall he gather much silver and gold. 18. And when he shall sit upon the throne of his kingdom, he shall take this other law from the priests the Levites, and have it written in a book. 19. This shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law, and the statutes thereof, to do them. 20. He shall not lift up his heart above his brethren, neither shall he depart from the commandment on the right hand, nor on the left, that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he and his children in Israel. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 18 Of the priesthood, idolatry, and Christ the right prophet. 1. The priests, the Levites, of all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel. The sacrifices of the LORD, and his inheritance, shall they eat. 2. Therefore shall they have no inheritance among their brethren; that the LORD may be their inheritance, as he hath spoken unto them. 3. And this shall be the law of the priests upon the people, and upon them that sacrifice, whether they be oxen or sheep, to give unto the priest the arm, and the cheek, and the belly. 4. And the firstling of thy corn, and of thy wine, and of thy oil, and the firstling of the shearing of thy sheep. 5. For the LORD thy God hath chosen him out of all thy tribes, to minister in the name of the LORD, he and his sons for ever. 6. If a Levite come out of any of thy gates, or out of all Israel, where he is a sojourner, and come according to all the pleasure of his soul into the place which the LORD hath mentioned, 7. To minister in the name of the LORD his God, as all his brethren the Levites, which stand there before the LORD, 8. And they shall have an equal part to eat of the things which he hath sold. Property of his fathers. 9. When thou comest into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn the abominations of these nations. 10. Lest there be found among thee a man that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or a prophet, or a diviner, or one that hearkeneth unto the voice of birds, or a sorcerer, 11. Or conjurors, or diviners, or interpreters of signs, or one who inquires of the dead. 12. For whosoever doeth these things is an abomination unto the LORD: and for these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. 13. But thou shalt be without change with the LORD thy God. 14. For these nations, which thou shalt take, obey the diviners and the prophets: but thou shalt not so hold thyself against the LORD thy God. 15. A prophet like unto me shall the LORD thy God raise up unto thee out of thee, and out of thy brethren, and ye shall obey him. 16. As thou hast asked of the LORD thy God in Horeb in the day of the congregation, saying: I will no more hear the voice of the LORD my God, neither will I see the great fire any more, lest I die. 17. And the LORD said unto me, They have spoken well. 18. I will raise up unto them a prophet like unto thee from among their brethren, and will give my words to his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. 19. And whosoever shall not hear my words, which he shall speak in my name, of him will I require it. 20. But if any prophet be presumptuous to speak in my name, which I commanded him not to speak, and that speaketh in the name of other gods, the same prophet shall die. 21. But whether thou wilt say in thine heart: How can I know what word the LORD hath not spoken? 22. If a prophet speak in the name of the LORD, and it come to nothing, and be not come, that is the word which the LORD hath not spoken: the prophet hath spoken it out of presumption: therefore shun him not. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 19 Order of the free cities. False witness punishment. 1. When the LORD thy God hath cut off the nations, which land the LORD thy God shall give thee to possess them, and to dwell in their cities and in their houses, 2. Thou shalt set apart for thee three cities in the land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it. 3. And thou shalt choose places, and divide the border of thy land, which the LORD thy God shall divide unto thee, into three circles; and thither shall he flee that hath committed manslaughter. 4. And this shall be the thing, that he that hath committed manslaughter may flee, and live: If a man smite his neighbour, not wilfully, and hated him not before, 5. But as if a man went into the woods with his neighbour to cut wood, and took out an axe with his hand to cut down the wood, and the iron came off the handle, and struck his neighbour, and he died; he shall flee one in these cities, and live, 6. Lest the avenger of blood pursue after the slayer, because his heart is heated, and take hold of him, because the way is so far off, and smite his soul, when yet there is no sentence of death upon him, because he hated not before. 7. Therefore I command thee to set apart three cities. 8. And if the LORD thy God shall enlarge thy border, as he sware unto thy fathers, and give thee all the land which he spake to give unto thy fathers 9. If thou shalt keep all these commandments, to do according to them which I command thee this day, to love the LORD thy God, and to walk in his ways all the days of thy life, then thou shalt do three cities more unto these three, 10. Lest innocent blood be shed in thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, and blood be upon thee. 11. But if a man bear hatred against his neighbour, and lie in wait for him, and make himself against him, and smite his soul, and be a creeper in these cities, 12. Then the elders of his city shall send and fetch him from thence, and deliver him into the hand of the avenger of blood, that he may die. 13. Thine eyes shall not spare him: thou shalt put on the innocent blood of Israel, and it shall be well with thee. 14. Thou shalt not drive back thy neighbour's border, which the former have set in thine inheritance, which thou shalt inherit in the land which the LORD thy God hath given thee to possess. 15. No single witness shall stand against any man concerning any iniquity or sin, whatsoever sin it be that can be committed: but in the mouth of two or three witnesses shall the matter stand. 16. If a wicked witness appear against any man, to testify against him a transgression, 17. Then shall the two men that have a matter together stand before the LORD in the presence of the priests and judges, which shall be at the same time; 18. And the judges shall inquire. And if the false witness hath borne false witness against his brother, 19. Then do unto him as he would have done unto his brother, that thou put away the wicked from thee, 20. That others may hear, and be afraid, and do no more such wicked things under thee. 21. Thine eye shall not spare his. Soul for soul, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 20 Rules of War 1. When thou goest forth to war against thine enemies, and seest horses and chariots of a people greater than thyself, fear them not: for the LORD thy God, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, is with thee. 2. And it shall come to pass, when ye are come to the battle, that the priest shall come and speak unto the people. 3. And say unto them: Israel, hearken! Ye go this day to battle against your enemies. Let not your heart be troubled; fear not, nor be dismayed, nor be afraid of them; 4. For the LORD your God goeth with you, to fight for you with your enemies, to save you. 5. And the officers shall speak unto the people, saying, Whosoever hath built a new house, and hath not yet dedicated it, let him go and dwell in his house, lest he die in battle, and another dedicate it. 6. Whosoever hath planted a vineyard, and hath not yet made it common, let him go and tarry at home, lest he die in the war, and another make it common. 7. Whosoever hath trusted a wife unto him, and hath not yet brought her home, let him go and tarry at home, lest he die in battle, and another bring her home. 8. And the officers shall continue to speak unto the people, saying: Whosoever is afraid and fainthearted, let him go and tarry at home, lest he also make his brethren's heart faint, as his heart is. 9. And when the officers have reasoned with the people, they shall set the captains before the people at the head. 10. When thou comest before a city to dispute with it, then thou shalt offer peace unto it. 11. If she answer thee peaceably, and open unto thee, then all the people that are found within shall be interestable unto thee, and subject unto thee. 12. But if she will not deal peaceably with thee, and will have war with thee, besiege her. 13. And when the LORD thy God giveth them into thine hand, then shalt thou smite all that is male therein with the edge of the sword; 14. Without the wives, and the children, and the cattle, and all that is in the city, and all the spoil, thou shalt divide among thyself: and thou shalt eat of the spoil of thine enemies, which the LORD thy GOD hath given thee. 15. So shalt thou do unto all the cities that are very far from thee, and are not of the cities of these nations. 16. But in the cities of these nations, which the LORD thy God shall give thee for an inheritance, thou shalt not suffer any to live that hath breath, 17. But thou shalt utterly destroy them, even the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, as the LORD thy God commanded thee, 18. Lest they teach you all the abominations which they do unto their gods, and ye sin against the LORD your God. 19. If thou lie a long time before a city, against which thou contendest to take it, thou shalt not destroy the trees, to cut them down with the axe: for thou mayest eat thereof; therefore thou shalt not cut them down. For it is wood in the field, and not man, that it may be a stronghold before thee. 20. And those trees, which thou knowest not to eat of, thou shalt destroy, and cut them down, and build them strong holds against the city that warreth with thee, until thou be mighty over it. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 21 Of unknown manslaughter, captive females, the right of the firstborn, disobedient sons, hanged men. 1. When a man is found slain in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess, and he lieth in the field, and it is not known who slew him, 2. Then thy elders and thy judges shall go forth, and measure of the slain unto the cities that are round about. 3. Whichever city is next, the elders thereof shall take a young heifer of the oxen, that one hath not wrought, nor pulled at the yoke, 4. And they shall bring her down to a gravelly ground, which is neither wrought nor sown, and there shall cut off her neck at the bottom. 5. Then shall the priests come, the children of Levi: for the LORD thy God hath chosen them to minister unto him, and to praise his name: and after their mouth shall all things be done, and all hurt. 6. And all the elders of that city shall come near unto the slain, and wash their hands over the young heifer, whose neck is cut off at the bottom, 7. And they shall answer and say, Our hands have not shed this blood, neither have our eyes seen it. 8. Be merciful unto thy people Israel, whom thou, O LORD, hast redeemed: lay not innocent blood upon thy people Israel. So shall they be reconciled above the blood. 9. So shalt thou put away the innocent blood from thee, that thou mayest do that which is right in the sight of the LORD. 10. When thou goest forth to battle against thine enemies, and the LORD thy God delivereth them into thine hand, that thou mayest carry away their captives, 11. And when thou seest a fair woman among the captives, thou hast a desire for her, that thou mayest take her to wife, 12. Bring her into thine house, and shave off her hair, and trim her nails. 13. And put off her garments wherein she is bound, and let her sit in thine house, and weep for her father and for her mother one moon; and afterward sleep with her, and take her in marriage, and let her be thy wife. 14. But if thou delight not in her, then thou shalt let her go whithersoever she goeth, and shalt not sell her for money, nor put her away, because thou hast humbled her. 15. If a man have two wives, the one whom he loveth, and the other whom he hateth, and they bear him children, both the loving and the adversary: the firstborn shall be of the adversary, 16. And when the time cometh for him to divide the inheritance unto his children, he cannot make the son of the beloved the firstborn son for the firstborn son of the hostile, 17. But he shall know the son of the hostile for the firstborn, that he may give him double all that is present: for he is his firstborn, and the right of the firstborn is his. 18. If a man have a wayward and disobedient son, which will not obey his father's voice, nor his mother's voice; and if they chasten him, he will not obey them, 19. Then his father and his mother shall take him, and bring him unto the elders of the city, and unto the gate of that place. 20. And say unto the elders of the city, This our son is wayward, and disobedient, and will not obey our voice, and is a glutton and a drunkard. 21. Then shall all the people of that city stone him, that he die: and thou shalt put away the wicked from thee, that all Israel may hear and fear. 22. If a man have committed a sin worthy of death, and be put to death by being hanged on a tree, 23. Then his body shall not remain upon the wood overnight, but thou shalt bury him that day: for he that is hanged is accursed with God, lest thou pollute thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 22 Many a law is recorded. 1. When thou seest thy brother's oxen or sheep go astray, thou shalt not depart from them, but shalt bring them again unto thy brother. 2. And if thy brother be not nigh thee, and thou know him not, then thou shalt take them into thine house, and they shall be with thee, until thy brother seek them, and then thou shalt restore them unto him. 3. So shalt thou do with his ass, and with his garment, and with all that is lost, which thy brother hath lost, and thou findest it: thou canst not escape it. 4. If thou seest thy brother's ass or his ox falling by the way, thou shalt not depart from him, but shalt help him up. 5. A woman shall not wear man's apparel, neither shall a man put on woman's apparel: for whosoever doeth these things is an abomination to the LORD thy God. 6. If thou find in the way a bird's nest in a tree, or in the earth, with young, or with eggs, and the mother sit upon the young, or upon the eggs, thou shalt not take the mother with the young, 7. But let the mother fly, and take the young, that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long. 8. When thou buildest a new house, make an awning for it upon thy roof, lest thou bring blood upon thine house, when any man falleth down. 9. Thou shalt not sow thy vineyard with divers seeds, lest thou sanctify the seed which thou hast sown beside the fruit of the vineyard. 10. Thou shalt not plow with an ox and an ass together. 11. Thou shalt not put on a garment of wool and linen mingled together. 12. Thou shalt make thee small lappets in the four parts of thy cloak, that thou mayest cover thyself. 13. If a man take a wife, and be sorry for her, when he hath put her to sleep, 14. And he layeth a vile thing upon her, and maketh an evil cry against her, saying, I have taken this woman, and when I went in unto her, I found her not a virgin: 15. Then the damsel's father and her mother shall take her, and bring forth the damsel's maidenhead before the elders of the city at the gate. 16. And the damsel's father shall say unto the elders, I have given my daughter to this man to wife; now is he grieved against her. 17. And he layeth a shameful thing upon her, saying, I found not thy daughter a virgin: here is my daughter's virginity. And they shall spread the garments before the elders of the city. 18. Then the elders of the city shall take the man, and chasten him. 19. And he shall pay an hundred shekels of silver, and shall give them unto the damsel's father, because he hath put a virgin to shame in Israel: and he shall take her to wife, that he may not put her away all the days of his life. 20. But if it be true, that the damsel is not found a virgin, 21. And they shall bring her out unto the door of her father's house, and the men of the city shall stone her to death, because she hath committed folly in Israel, and because she hath entered into her father's house: and thou shalt put away evil from among you. 22. If a man be found sleeping with a woman that hath an husband, they shall both die, the man and the woman with whom he slept: and thou shalt do the evil of Israel. 23. If a damsel be familiar with any man, and a man get her in the city, and sleep with her, 24. Then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of the city, and ye shall stone them both to death: the damsel, because she cried not, being in the city; the man, because he hath violated his neighbour's wife; and thou shalt put away evil from among you. 25. And if a man get a familiar maid in the field, and take her, and lie with her, then the man that slept with her shall die alone. 26. And thou shalt not hurt the harlot: for she hath done no sin worthy of death: but as a man riseth up against his neighbour, and killeth his soul, so is it. 27. For he found her in the field, and the familiar damsel cried out, and there was none to help her. 28. If a man come unto a virgin that is not trusted, and take her, and sleep with her, and be found so, 29. And he that slept with her shall give unto her father fifty shekels of silver, and shall have her to wife, because he hath made her weak: he cannot leave her all the days of his life. 30. No man shall take his father's wife, nor uncover his father's covering. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 23 who belongs to the congregation of the Lord or not. 1. There shall no man be cut off, nor cut off, in the congregation of the LORD. 2: Neither shall any whoremonger enter into the congregation of the LORD, even after the tenth generation; but shall not enter evil into the congregation of the LORD. 3. The Ammonites and the Moabites shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD, even after the tenth generation: they shall never enter in, 4. Because they prevented you not with bread and water in the way, when ye came out of Egypt, and hired Balaam the son of Beor of Pethor of Mesopotamia against you, to curse thee. 5. But the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam, and changed thy curse into a blessing, because the LORD thy God loved thee. 6. Thou shalt not wish them happiness or good all thy days for ever. 7. Thou shalt not count the Edomite an abomination: he is thy brother. Neither shalt thou count the Egyptian an abomination: for thou hast been a stranger in his land. 8. The children which they beget in the third generation shall come into the congregation of the LORD. 9. When thou goest out of the camp against thine enemies, beware of all evil. 10. If there be any among thee that is not clean, and any thing hath befallen him in the night, let him go out of the camp, and let him not come in again, 11. Till he bathe himself in water before even. And when the sun is down, he shall go into the camp again. 12. And thou shalt have a place without the camp, where thou mayest go in time of need. 13. And thou shalt have a little shovel, and when thou sittest without, thou shalt dig therewith: and when thou hast sat down, thou shalt gather up that which is gone out of thee. 14. For the LORD thy God walketh among thy camp, to deliver thee, and to give thine enemies before thee. Therefore let thy camp be holy, that no shame be seen among thee, and let him turn away from thee. 15. Thou shalt not deliver up a servant unto his master, who hath escaped from him unto thee. 16. He shall dwell with thee in the place which he shall choose within thy gates for his good; and thou shalt not oppress him. 17. There shall be no whore among the daughters of Israel, neither shall there be a fornicator among the sons of Israel. 18. Thou shalt not bring a whore's fee, nor a dog's fee, into the house of the LORD thy God, for any vow: for it is an abomination unto the LORD thy God. 19. Thou shalt not usury thy brother, neither with money, nor with meat, nor with any thing to usury. 20. In the stranger thou mayest multiply, but not in thy brother: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all that thou undertakest in the land whither thou goest to possess it. 21. If thou vow a vow unto the LORD thy God, thou shalt not forsake to keep it: for the LORD thy God shall require it of thee, and it shall be sin unto thee. 22. If thou let thy vows go by, it is no sin unto thee. 23. But that which went out to thy lips thou shalt keep, and do according to that which thou hast freely vowed unto the LORD thy God, which thou hast spoken with thy mouth. 24. When thou goest into thy neighbour's vineyard, thou mayest eat of the grapes according to thy will, until thou be full; but thou shalt not put any thing into thy vessel. 25. When thou goest into thy neighbour's seed, thou mayest pluck the ears of corn with thine hand; but with the sickle thou shalt not go to and fro within it. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 24 Laws, mainly concerning the domestic state. 1. If a man take a wife, and marry her, and she find not favour in his sight, because of any displeasure, then he shall write a bill of divorcement, and put it in her hand, and put her out of his house. 2. When she is gone out of his house, and is gone, and is married to another, 3. And the same other man shall be angry with her, and shall write her a bill of divorcement, and put it into her hand, and let her out of his house: or if the same other man die, who had taken her to wife: 4. Then her first husband, which put her away, cannot take her again to be his wife, because she is unclean: for this is abomination in the sight of the LORD, lest thou make the land to sin, which the LORD thy God hath given thee for an inheritance. 5. If a man hath lately taken a wife, he shall not go forth to war, neither shall anything be laid upon him. He shall be at liberty in his house a year, and shall rejoice with his wife whom he hath taken. 6. Thou shalt not take for a pledge the lowest and the uppermost millstone: for he hath set thy soul for a pledge. 7. If any man be found stealing a soul from among his brethren, from among the children of Israel, and shifting it, or selling it, such a thief shall die, that thou put away evil from among you. 8. Beware of the plague of leprosy, that thou observe diligently to do all that the priests the Levites teach thee: and as they command you, that shall ye observe to do. 9. Consider what the LORD thy God did unto Miriam in the way that ye came out of Egypt. 10. If thou owe thy neighbour any thing, thou shalt not go into his house, and take a pledge of him, 11. But thou shalt stand without, and he to whom thou borest shall bring forth his pledge unto thee. 12. But if he be a poor man, thou shalt not lie down over his pledge, 13. But thou shalt restore him his pledge when the sun goeth down, and he shall sleep in his garment, and bless thee. This shall be a righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God. 14. Thou shalt not withhold wages from the poor and needy, whether they be of thy brethren, or strangers that are in thy land, or within thy gates, 15. But thou shalt give him his hire of the day, that the sun go not down upon it: for he is scanty, and shall preserve his soul therewith, lest he call upon the LORD against thee, and be sin unto thee. 16. Fathers shall not die for children, nor children for fathers: but every man shall die for his own sin. 17. Thou shalt not pervert the right of the stranger, nor of the fatherless; neither shalt thou take the widow's garment for a pledge. 18. For thou shalt remember that thou wast a servant in Egypt, and that the LORD thy God redeemed thee from thence. Therefore I command thee to do this thing. 19. When thou hast reaped in thy field, and hast forgotten a sheaf in the field, then thou shalt not return to fetch it; but it shall be to the stranger, and to the fatherless, and to the widow; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the works of thine hands. 20. When thou hast shaken thy olive trees, thou shalt not shake them again: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. 21. When thou hast gleaned thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it: it shall be of the stranger, and of the fatherless, and of the widow. 22. And thou shalt remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt: therefore I command thee to do this thing. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 25 Several pieces of Jewish police regulations. 1. If there be strife between men, let them be brought into court, and let them be judged, and let the righteous be judged, and the wicked condemned. 2. And if the wicked have deserved to be beaten, the judge shall call him down, and shall smite him before him according to the measure and number of his iniquity. 3. When forty blows have been given him, he shall not be beaten any more; lest, when more blows are given, he be beaten too much, and thy brother be abominable in thy sight, 4. Thou shalt not bind up the mouth of the ox that threshes. 5. If brethren dwell together, and one die without children, then the wife of the deceased shall not take a strange man out of the house, but her brother in law shall put her to sleep, and take her to be married, and marry her. 6. And the firstborn of her shall be called by the name of his brother that died, that his name be not cut off from Israel. 7. And if it please not the man to take his sister in law, then she his sister in law shall go up under the gate before the elders, and say, My brother in law refuseth to raise up a name unto his brother in Israel, and will not marry me. 8. Then the elders of the city shall call for him, and speak unto him. And when he standeth, and saith, I am not pleased to take them, 9. And his sister in law shall come unto him before the elders, and take off his shoe from off his feet, and spit upon him: and she shall answer and say: So shall it be done unto every man that will not build up his brother's house. 10. And his name shall be called in Israel the house of the barefooter. 11. When two men quarrel together, and one man's wife runeth to deliver her husband out of the hand of him that smiteth him, and putteth forth her hand, and seizeth him by his shame, 12. Then shalt thou cut off her hand, and thine eye shall not spare her. 13. Thou shalt not have two weights in thy sack, great and small; 14. And there shall not be in thine house two bushels, large and small. 15. Thou shalt have a full and right weight, and a full and right bushel, that thy life may be long in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. 16. For whosoever doeth these things is an abomination unto the LORD thy God, as are all they that do evil. 17. Remember what the Amalekites did unto thee in the way that ye came out of Egypt: 18. How they attacked thee in the way, and smote the hindmost of thee, all the weak that followed thee in the rear, when thou wast weary and faint, and feared not God, 19. And it shall come to pass, when the LORD thy God hath given thee rest from all thine enemies round about in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, that thou shalt cut off the remembrance of the Amalekites from under heaven. Remember this! (Deuteronomy) Chapter 26 Of the first fruits and tithes. 1. When thou comest into the land which the LORD thy God shall give thee for an inheritance, and takest it, and dwellest therein, 2. Then shalt thou take all the firstfruits of the land, which come forth out of the ground, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt put them in a basket, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose, that his name may dwell there, 3. And thou shalt come unto the priest that is at that time, and say unto him, I confess this day unto the LORD thy God, that I am come into the land which the LORD sware unto our fathers to give us. 4. And the priest shall take the basket out of thine hand, and set it down before the altar of the LORD thy God. 5. Then shalt thou answer and say before the LORD thy God, The Syrians sought to destroy my father, which went down into Egypt, and was there a stranger with a few people, and there became great, and strong, and much people. 6. But the Egyptians dealt evil with us, and compelled us, and laid hard service upon us. 7. And we cried unto the LORD God of our fathers, and the LORD heard our cry, and saw our affliction, and our anguish, and our distress. 8. And brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with a great terror, by signs and wonders; 9. And brought us into this place, and gave us this land, where milk and honey flow in it. 10. Now therefore I will bring the firstfruits of the land, which thou, LORD, hast given me. And thou shalt leave them before the LORD thy God, and worship before the LORD thy God, 11. And rejoice in all that the LORD thy God hath given thee, and in thy house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that is with thee. 12. When thou hast gathered together all the tithes of thine income in the third year, which is a tenth year, then thou shalt give unto the Levite, and to the stranger, and to the fatherless, and to the widow, that they may eat in thy gate, and be satisfied. 13. And thou shalt say before the LORD thy God, I have brought that which is holy out of mine house, and have given it unto the Levites, and to the strangers, and to the fatherless, and to the widow, according to all thy commandment which thou hast commanded me: I have not transgressed thy commandments, neither have I forgotten them. 14. I have not eaten thereof in my affliction, neither have I done thereof in uncleanness; I have not given thereof unto the dead: I have been obedient to the voice of the LORD my God, and have done all things as thou hast commanded me. 15. Look down from thy holy habitation from heaven, and bless thy people Israel, and the land which thou hast given us, as thou swarest unto our fathers, a land flowing with milk and honey within. 16. This day doth the LORD thy God grant thee to do according to all these commandments and these statutes, to keep them, and to do them with all thine heart and with all thy soul. 17. Thou hast spoken unto the LORD this day, that he is thy God, that thou shouldest walk in all his ways, and keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and obey his voice. 18. And the LORD hath spoken unto thee this day, that thou shouldest be his own people, as he hath spoken unto thee, to keep all his commandments, 19. And he shall make thee supreme, and thou shalt be praised, and glorified, and honoured above all nations which he hath made thee: that thou mayest be a holy people unto the LORD thy God, as he hath said. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 27 Memorials of the Children of Israel. Blessing and curse. 1. And Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people, saying, Keep all the commandments which I command you this day. 2. And it shall come to pass at the time that ye pass over Jordan into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set up great stones, and whitewash them with lime. 3. And write therein all the words of this law, when thou passest over, that thou mayest come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, a land flowing with milk and honey within, as the LORD thy fathers' God hath spoken unto thee. 4. And it shall come to pass, when ye are passed over Jordan, that ye shall set up such stones (which I command you this day) in mount Ebal, and whitewash them with lime. 5. And thou shalt build there an altar of stone unto the LORD thy God, and no iron shall pass over it. 6. Of whole stones shalt thou build this altar unto the LORD thy God, and offer burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD thy God. 7. And thou shalt offer peace offerings, and eat there, and rejoice before the LORD thy God. 8. And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law, plainly and distinctly. 9. And Moses and the priests the Levites spake unto all Israel, saying: Mark and hearken, O Israel. This day thou art become a people of the LORD thy God, 10. That thou mayest obey the voice of the LORD thy God, and do according to his commandments and his statutes, which I command thee this day. 11. And Moses commanded the people that day, saying: 12. These shall stand in mount Grisim to bless the people, when ye are gone over Jordan; Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin. 13. And these shall stand in mount Ebal to curse: Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan, and Naphtali. 14. And the Levites shall lift up, and say unto every one of Israel with a loud voice: 15. Cursed be he that maketh an idol, or a graven image, an abomination to the LORD, the work of the craftsmen's hands, and setteth it in secret. And all the people shall answer and say, Amen. 16. Cursed be he that curseth his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen. 17. Cursed be he that trammelteth his neighbour's border. And all the people shall say, Amen. 18. Cursed be he that maketh a blind man to err in the way. And all the people shall say, Amen. 19. Cursed be he that maketh the right of the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow to perish. And all the people shall say, Amen. 20. Cursed be he that lieth with his father's wife, that he may uncover his father's breast. And all the people shall say, Amen. 21. Cursed be he that lieth with any beast. And all the people shall say, Amen. 22. Cursed be he that lieth with his sister, which is his father's daughter, or his mother's daughter. And all the people shall say, Amen. 23. Cursed be he that lieth with his mother-in-law. And all the people shall say, Amen. 24. Cursed be he that smiteth his neighbour in secret. And all the people shall say, Amen. 25. Cursed be he that taketh gifts, to smite the soul of innocent blood! And all the people shall say, Amen. 26. Cursed be he that fulfilleth not all the words of this law, to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 28 Promised blessing, threatened curse. 1. And if thou wilt obey the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep and to do all his commandments, which I command thee this day, then the LORD thy God shall make thee supreme above all people of the earth, 2. And all these blessings shall come upon thee, and shall be upon thee, because thou hast obeyed the voice of the LORD thy God. 3. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, blessed shalt thou be in the field. 4. Blessed shall be the fruit of thy womb, and the fruit of thy land, and the fruit of thy cattle, and the fruit of thy oxen, and the fruit of thy sheep. 5. Blessed shall be thy basket and thy rest. 6. Blessed shalt thou be when thou goest in, blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out. 7. And the LORD shall smite thine enemies that rise up against thee before thee: by one way shall they go out against thee, and by seven ways shall they flee from thee. 8. The LORD shall command the blessing to be with thee in thy cellar, and in all that thou shalt undertake, and shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God hath given thee. 9. The LORD will establish thee a holy nation unto him, as he hath sworn unto thee, because thou hast kept the commandments of the LORD thy God, and hast walked in his ways, 10. And all the nations of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD, and shall fear thee. 11. And the LORD shall make thee to abound in riches, in the fruit of thy womb, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee. 12. And the LORD will open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven, to give rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the works of thine hands. And thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow of any. 13. And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt soar above, and not lie beneath: because thou hast obeyed the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day to keep and to do, 14. And that thou depart not from any word which I command you this day, either to the right hand, or to the left, to walk after other gods to serve them. 15. But if thou wilt not obey the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep and to do all his commandments and his statutes, which I command thee this day, all these curses shall come upon thee, and shall be upon thee. 16. Cursed shalt thou be in the city, cursed shalt thou be in the field. 17. Cursed shall be thy basket and the rest of thy stuff. 18. Cursed shall be the fruit of thy womb, and the fruit of thy land, and the fruit of thy oxen, and the fruit of thy sheep. 19. Cursed shalt thou be when thou goest in, cursed shalt thou be when thou goest out. 20. The LORD shall send among thee destruction, and mischief, and evil, in all that thou takest in hand to do, until thou be destroyed, and perish quickly, because of thy wickedness, because thou hast forsaken me. 21. The LORD shall put the gland of death upon thee, until he destroy thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it. 22. The LORD shall smite thee with sore, and with fever, and with heat, and with rheumatism, and with drought, and with poisonous air, and with jaundice, and shall persecute thee until he destroy thee. 23. Thy heaven which is above thy head shall be brass, and the earth beneath thee shall be iron. 24. The LORD shall give unto thy land dust and ashes for rain from heaven upon thee, until thou be destroyed. 25. The LORD shall smite thee before thine enemies. By one way shalt thou go out unto them, and by seven ways shalt thou flee from them: and thou shalt be scattered abroad among all the kingdoms of the earth. 26. Thy carcase shall be meat unto every fowl of the air, and to every beast of the earth: and there shall be none to scatter them. 27. The LORD shall smite thee with the glands of Egypt, with genital warts, and with scabies, and thou shalt not be healed. 28. The LORD shall smite thee with madness, blindness, and raving of the heart; 29. And thou shalt grope in the noonday, as a blind man gropes in the dark; and thou shalt not prosper in thy way, and shalt suffer violence and injustice all thy days; and no man shall help thee. 30. A wife shalt thou make thee trust, but another shall sleep with her. A house shalt thou build, but thou shalt not dwell therein. A vineyard shalt thou plant, but thou shalt not make it common. 31. Thine ox shall be slain before thine eyes, but thou shalt not eat thereof. Your donkey will be taken by force before your face and will not be returned to you. Your sheep will be given to your enemies, and no one will help you. 32. Thy sons and thy daughters shall be given unto another people; and thine eyes shall look, and faint upon them daily; and there shall be no strength in thine hands. 33. The fruit of thy land, and all thy labour, shall a people devour, whom thou knowest not; and thou shalt suffer iniquity, and be crushed all thy days. 34. And thou shalt be senseless before that which thine eyes shall see. 35. The LORD will smite thee with an evil gland in thy knees and in thy calves, that thou shalt not be healed from the sole of thy foot even to the crown of thy head. 36. And the LORD shall drive thee, and thy king, whom thou hast set over thee, among a people whom thou hast not known, nor thy fathers: and there thou shalt change gods, wood, and stones. 37. And thou shalt be an abomination, and a proverb, and a mockery among all nations, because the LORD hath driven thee. 38. Thou shalt carry out much seed into the field, and gather it little: for the locusts shall eat it up. 39. Vineyards shalt thou plant and build, but thou shalt not drink wine, nor read wine: for the worms shall eat it up. 40. Thou shalt have olive trees in all thy borders, but thou shalt not anoint thyself with oil: for thine olive tree shall be plucked up. 41. Thou shalt beget sons and daughters, and shalt not have them: for they shall be carried away captive. 42. All thy trees and the fruit of thy land shall the vermin eat. 43. The stranger that is with thee shall ascend above thee, and shall always soar: but thou shalt descend, and shalt always fall. 44. He shall lend unto thee, but thou shalt not lend unto him: he shall be the head, and thou shalt be the tail. 45. And all these curses shall come upon thee, and persecute thee, and smite thee, until thou be destroyed; because thou hast not obeyed the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes, which he commanded thee. 46. Therefore signs and wonders shall be in thee, and in thy seed for ever, 47. Because thou didst not serve the LORD thy God with joy and gladness of heart, when thou hadst all things. 48. And thou shalt serve thine enemy, whom the LORD shall send thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in all want: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he destroy thee. 29. The LORD shall send a people upon thee from afar, from the ends of the earth, as an eagle hath cried, whose language thou understandest not, 50. An insolent people, that regard not the person of the aged, nor spare the young; 51. And he shall eat up the fruit of thy cattle, and the fruit of thy ground, until thou be destroyed: and he shall leave thee none of the corn, nor of the wine, nor of the oil, nor of the fruit of the oxen, nor of the sheep, until it destroy thee; 52. And it shall afflict thee in all thy gates, until it cast down thy high and strong walls, wherein thou trustedst, in all thy land: and thou shalt be afflicted in all thy gates, throughout all thy land, which the LORD thy God hath given thee. 53. Thou shalt eat the fruit of thy womb, the flesh of thy sons and of thy daughters, which the LORD thy God hath given thee, in anguish and distress, that thine enemy may press thee; 54. That a man, which before lived very tenderly and in lusts among you, shall forgive his brother, and the woman that is in his arms, and the son that is left of his sons, 55. To give any of them of the flesh of his sons, which he eateth, because there is nothing left him of all that he hath, in anguish and distress; that thine enemy may compass thee about in all thy gates. 56. A woman among you that hath before lived tenderly and in lusts, that she hath not sought to set the sole of her foot upon the earth for tenderness and for lust, she shall grant to the man in her arms, and to her son, and to her daughter 57. the afterbirth, which is gone out between her own legs, and her sons which she bare: for they shall eat them in secret from all want, in anguish and distress, that thine enemy may throng thee within thy gates. 58. Wherefore thou shalt not keep all the words of this law, which are written in this book, to fear that glorious and terrible name, the LORD thy God, 59. Then shall the LORD deal strangely with thee, with plagues upon thee and upon thy seed, with great and longsuffering plagues, with evil and longsuffering diseases, 60. And he shall turn unto thee all the plague of Egypt, from which thou art afraid, and they shall cleave unto thee. 61. And every sickness, and every plague, which is not written in the book of this law, shall the LORD bring upon thee, until thou be destroyed. 62. And there shall be left a little multitude of you, which were before as the stars of heaven according to the multitude, because thou hast not hearkened unto the voice of the LORD thy God. 63. And as the LORD rejoiced over you before, to do you good, and to multiply you; so shall he rejoice over you, to destroy you, and to destroy you: and ye shall be cut off from the land which thou goest in to possess it. 64. For the LORD shall scatter thee among all nations, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which thou hast not known, nor thy fathers, wood and stones. 65. Therefore thou shalt have no abiding substance among these nations, neither shall the soles of thy feet have any rest. For the LORD shall give thee there a trembling heart, and faint eyes, and a withered soul, 66. That thy life shall hover before thee. Night and day thou shalt fear, and shalt not be sure of thy life. 67. In the morning thou shalt say, Alas, that I might live to see the evening! In the evening thou shalt say, Oh that I might see the morning! for the fear of thine heart shall terrify thee, and for that which thou shalt see with thine eyes. 68. And the LORD shall bring thee again into Egypt by ships full, by the way of which I said: Thou shalt see it no more. And there ye shall be sold unto your enemies for bondmen and bondmaids, and there shall be no buyer. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 29 Covenant Renewal. 1. These are the words of the covenant which the LORD commanded Moses to make with the children of Israel in the land of Moab, the second time after he had made it with them in Horeb. 2. And Moses called unto all Israel, and said unto them: Ye have seen all that the LORD hath done in Egypt before your eyes unto Pharaoh, and to all his servants, and to all his land, 3. The great temptations which thine eyes have seen, that they were great signs and wonders. 4. And the LORD hath not yet given you unto this day a heart to understand, eyes to see, and ears to hear. 5. He hath made you to walk forty years in the wilderness: your garments are not become old upon you, neither is your shoe become old upon your feet. 6. Ye have not eaten bread, neither drunk wine, nor strong drink; that ye might know that I am the LORD your God. 7. And it came to pass, when ye were come into this place, that Sihon king of Heshbon and Og king of Bashan went out to meet us to fight with us. And we smote them 8. And they took their land, and gave it for an inheritance unto the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to the half tribe of the Manassites. 9. Keep therefore the words of this covenant, and do them; that ye may deal wisely in all your doings. 10. All ye stand before the LORD your God this day, the rulers of your tribes, your elders, your officers, every man of Israel, 11. Your children, your wives, your stranger that is in your camp, both your hewers of wood, and your drawers of water, 12. That thou mayest walk in the covenant of the LORD thy God, and in the oath which the LORD thy God maketh unto thee this day, 13. That he may establish thee this day for a people unto him, and that he may be thy God, as he spake unto thee, and as he sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 14. For I make not this covenant and this oath with you alone, 15. But both with you which are here this day, and stand with us before the LORD our God, and with them which are not with us this day. 16. For ye know how we dwelt in the land of Egypt, and passed through the midst of the nations which ye passed through, 17. And behold their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were with them. 18. Lest there be among you a man, or a woman, or a servant, or a tribe, whose heart is turned this day from the LORD our God, to go and serve the gods of these nations, and peradventure become a root among you, bearing gall and wormwood, 19. And though he hear the words of this curse, yet bless himself in his heart, saying, It is well with me, because I walk according to my heart: that the drunken woman may pass away with the thirsty. 20. Then shall not the LORD have mercy upon him; but then shall his wrath and his fury be kindled against such a man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall be laid upon him. And the LORD shall blot out his name from under heaven. 21. And he shall separate him for a calamity out of all the tribes of Israel, according to all the curses of the covenant that are written in the book of this law. 22. Then shall say the children of your children come up after you, and the strangers that come from a far country, when they see the plagues of this land, and the diseases wherewith the LORD hath afflicted them, 23. For he hath burned all their land with brimstone and salt, that it should not be sown, nor grow, neither should any herb spring up therein; as Sodom and Gomorrha, Adama and Zebo, are turned back, which the LORD hath turned back in his wrath and fury. 24. Then shall all nations say, Why hath the LORD thus done unto this land? What is this great and fierce anger? 25. And it shall be said, Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD God of their fathers, which he made with them, when he brought them up out of the land of Egypt; 26. And they went and served other gods, and worshipped them, such gods as they knew not, and which gave them nothing; 27. Therefore the wrath of the LORD is kindled against this land, because he hath brought upon them all the curses that are written in this book; 28. And the LORD thrust them out of their land with great wrath and fury and displeasure, and cast them into another land, as it is this day. 29. The mystery of the LORD our God is revealed unto us, and unto our children for ever, that we should do all the words of this law. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 30 The penitent obtain mercy, the rebellious vengeance and punishment. 1. When therefore all these things come upon thee, whether they be blessings or cursings, which I have set before thee, and thou goest into thine heart, where thou art among the heathen, because the LORD thy God hath cast thee out, 2. and turn unto the LORD thy God, to obey his voice, thou and thy children, with all thine heart and with all thy soul in all that I command thee this day, 3. Then shall the LORD thy God turn thy prison, and have mercy upon thee, and gather thee again out of all nations, whither the LORD thy God hath scattered thee. 4. If thou be cast out unto the end of heaven, yet the LORD thy God shall gather thee from thence, and fetch thee from thence; 5. And he shall bring thee into the land which thy fathers possessed, and thou shalt possess it; and he shall do thee good, and multiply thee above thy fathers. 6. And the LORD thy God shall circumcise thy heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live. 7. But these curses shall the LORD thy God put all upon thine enemies, and upon them that hate thee, and persecute thee. 8. But thou shalt return, and obey the voice of the LORD, and do all his commandments which I command thee this day. 9. And the LORD thy God shall make thee prosperous in all the works of thine hands, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy land; and it shall be well with thee. For the LORD will turn to rejoice over thee for thy good, as he rejoiced over thy fathers, 10. Therefore obey the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes, which are written in the book of this law, and turn unto the LORD thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul. 11. For the commandment which I command thee this day is not hid from thee, neither is it far from thee, 12. Nor in heaven, that thou mayest say, Who will take us up to heaven, and fetch us to hear and to do? 13. Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall pass over the sea, and take us, that we may hear, and do it? 14. For the word is nigh unto thee in thy mouth, and in thine heart to do it. 15. Behold, I have set before thee this day life and good, death and evil; 16. Who command thee this day to love the LORD thy God, and to walk in his ways, and to keep his commandments, and his statutes, and his judgments, and to live, and to be multiplied, that the LORD thy God may bless thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it. 17. But if thou turn away thine heart, and obey not, but be deceived, to worship other gods, and to serve them, 18. I declare unto you this day, that ye shall perish, and not remain long in the land, when thou shalt pass over Jordan to possess it. 19. I take heaven and earth to be witnesses over you this day. I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing, that you may choose life, and that you and your seed may live, 20. That ye love the LORD your God, and obey his voice, and cleave unto him. For this is thy life, and thy long days, to dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 31 Moses resigns his office, orders Joshua to take his place. 1. And Moses went and spake these words unto all Israel; 2. And said unto them: I am this day an hundred and twenty years old; I can go no more out and in: therefore the LORD hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan. 3. The LORD thy God himself shall go before thee; he himself shall destroy these nations before thee, and thou shalt possess them. Joshua shall pass over before thee, as the LORD hath spoken. 4. And the LORD shall do unto them as he did unto Sihon and Og, kings of the Amorites, and to their land, which he destroyed. 5. When therefore the LORD shall give them before you, ye shall do unto them according to all the commandment which I have commanded you. 6. Be of good courage, fear not, neither be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God himself will walk with thee, and will not turn away his hand from thee, nor forsake thee. 7. And Moses called Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be of good courage and undaunted: for thou shalt bring this people into the land which the LORD sware unto their fathers to give them, and thou shalt divide it among them. 8. But the LORD himself, which goeth before you, shall be with thee, and shall not remove his hand from thee, nor forsake thee. Fear not, neither be dismayed. 9. And Moses wrote this law, and gave it to the priests, to the children of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and to all the elders of Israel; 10. And commanded them, saying, For seven years, in the year of remission, at the feast of tabernacles, 11. When all Israel come to appear before the LORD thy God in the place which he shall choose, thou shalt cause this law to be proclaimed before all Israel in their ears, 12. Even before the congregation of the people, both of the men, and of the women, and of the children, and of thy stranger that is within thy gates; that they may hear and learn, that they may fear the LORD their God, and keep him, to do all the words of this law, 13. And that their children also, which know it not, may hear and learn; that they may fear the LORD your God all the days of your life, which are in the land whither ye go in over Jordan. 14. And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thy time is come to die. Call Joshua, and come into the tabernacle of the congregation, that I may command him. And Moses went with Joshua, and they entered into the tabernacle of the congregation. 15. And the LORD appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of cloud: and the same pillar of cloud stood in the door of the tabernacle. 16. And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thou shalt sleep with thy fathers; and this people shall come up, and whoredom after strange gods, of the land whither they go, and shall forsake me, and shall forsake the covenant that I have made with them. 17. Then shall my wrath be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and hide my face from them, and they shall be consumed. And when much calamity and anguish shall befall them, they shall say, Hath not all this evil entered me, Because my God is not with me? 18. But I will hide my face in that day because of all the evil that they have done, in that they have turned unto other gods. 19. Now therefore write ye this song, and teach it the children of Israel, and put it in their mouths; that the song may be a witness unto me among the children of Israel. 20. For I will bring them into the land, which I sware unto their fathers, when milk and honey flowed within. And when they eat, and are filled, and grow fat, they shall turn unto other gods, and serve them; and they shall blaspheme me, and forsake my covenant. 21. And when much calamity and anguish shall enter them, this song shall answer them for a testimony: for it shall not be forgotten out of the mouth of their seed. For I know their thoughts, that they may go about even now, before I bring them into the land which I have sworn. 22. So Moses wrote this song at that time, and taught it the children of Israel. 23. And he commanded Joshua the son of Nun, saying, Be of good courage, and be not afraid: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them, and I will be with thee. 24. Now Moses had written out the whole words of this law in a book, 25. And he commanded the Levites that bare the ark of the testimony of the LORD, saying: 26. Take the book of this law, and put it in the side of the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, that there it may be a witness against thee. 27. For I know your disobedience and stubbornness. Behold, because I live with you this day, ye have been disobedient to the LORD: how much more after my death? 28. Gather therefore before me all the elders of your tribes, and your officers, that I may speak these words in their ears, and take heaven and earth for witnesses against them. 29. For I know that after my death ye shall perish, and go out of the way which I have commanded you. Then shall evil befall you hereafter: because ye have done evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger with the work of your hands. 30. So Moses spake the words of this song in the ears of all the congregation of Israel: (Deuteronomy) Chapter 32 Moses' Song and Canticle. 1. Take heed, ye heavens, I will speak; and let the earth hear the words of my mouth. 2. Let my doctrine drop as the rain, and let my speech flow as the dew, as the rain upon the grass, and as the drops upon the herb. 3. For I will praise the name of the LORD. Give glory to our God alone! 4. He is a rock. His works are blameless: for all that he doeth is right. Faithful is God, and there is no evil in him: just and upright is he. 5. The perverse and wicked manner fall from him; they are stains, and not his children. 6. Do you then give thanks to the LORD your God, you foolish and foolish people? Is he not thy Father, and thy Lord? Is it not he only that hath made thee, and prepared thee? 7. Remember the former times unto this day, and consider what he hath done for the fathers of old. Ask thy father, and he shall tell thee: thy elders, and they shall tell thee. 8. When the most High divided the nations, and scattered the children of men, he set the bounds of the nations according to the number of the children of Israel. 9. For the LORD'S portion is his people; Jacob is the cord of his inheritance. 10. He found him in the wilderness, in the dry desert, howling. He led him, and gave him the law. He kept him as the apple of his eye, 11. As an eagle bringeth forth his young, and soareth over them. He spread forth his wings, and took him, and bare them upon his wings. 12. The LORD alone led him, and there was no strange god with him. 13. He brought him up on high upon the earth, and fed him with the fruit of the field, and made him suck honey out of the rocks, and oil out of the hard stones, 14. Butter of the kine, and milk of the sheep, with the fat of the lambs, and fat rams, and goats with fat kidneys, and wheat, and watered him with good grape blood. 15. And when he was fat and full, he became horny. And he became fat, and fat, and strong, and hath forsaken the God that made him: he hath despised the rock of his salvation; 16. And hath provoked him to zeal by strangers; by abominations hath he provoked him to anger. 17. They have sacrificed unto the devils of the field, and not unto their God, unto gods which they knew not, unto new ones, which were not before, which your fathers did not worship. 18. Thou hast forsaken thy rock that begat thee, and hast forgotten God that made thee. 19. And when the LORD saw it, he was wroth with his sons and with his daughters. 20. And he said: I will hide my face from them, I will see what shall befall them at the last: for it is a perverse kind, they are unfaithful children. 21. They have provoked me against that which is not God: with their idolatry have they provoked me, and I will provoke them again against that which is not a people; against a foolish people will I provoke them. 22. For the fire is kindled in mine anger, and shall burn even to the lowest hell; and shall devour the land with her increase, and set on fire the foundations of the mountains. 23. I will heap all mischief upon them; I will shoot all mine arrows into them. 24. They shall faint with hunger, and be consumed with fever, and with sudden death. I will send the teeth of beasts among them, and the poison of serpents. 25. Outward shall the sword take them, and inward shall terror take them; both young men and virgins, babes with the gray man. 26. I will say, Where are they? I will lift up their memory among men, 27. If I spared not the wrath of the enemy, lest their enemies should be proud, and say, Our power is great, and the LORD hath not done all these things. 28. For there is a people where there is no counsel within, and there is no understanding in them. 29. O, that they might be wise, and hear these things, that they might understand the things that shall come upon them hereafter. 30. How is it that one shall chase a thousand of them, and two shall make ten thousand to flee? Is it not that she hath sold her rock, and the LORD hath delivered her up? 31. For our rock is not as their rock: our enemies themselves are judges. 32. For their vine is of the vine of Sodom, and of the field of Gomorrha; their grapes are gall, they have bitter berries; 33. Their wine is the poison of dragons, and the gall of fierce vipers. 34. Is not this hidden with me, and sealed up in my treasures? 35. Vengeance is mine; I will recompense. In his time shall her foot slide; For the time of her calamity is at hand, And her future hasteth on. 36. For the LORD will judge his people, and have mercy upon his servants. For he shall see that their power is gone, and that both they that are shut up and forsaken are gone. 37. And they shall say, Where are their gods, their rock, in whom they trusted? 38. Of which sacrifice they did eat fat, and drank the wine of their libation? Let them arise, and help you, and protect you! 39. See ye then that I alone am, and there is no God beside me? I can kill, and I can make alive; I can smite, and I can heal; and there is none that shall deliver out of mine hand. 40. For I will lift up my hand to heaven, and will say, I live for ever. 41. When I shall sharpen the lightning of my sword, and my hand shall take hold to punish, then will I again avenge myself upon mine enemies, and recompense them that hate me. 42. I will make mine arrows drunken with blood, and my sword shall devour flesh upon the blood of the slain, and upon the prison, and upon the uncovered head of the enemy. 43. Rejoice, all ye his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will take vengeance on his enemies, and will be gracious unto the land of his people. 44. And Moses came and spake all the words of this song in the ears of the people, he and Joshua the son of Nun. 45. And Moses spake all these things unto all Israel, 46. And he said unto them: Take to heart all the words which I testify unto you this day, that ye command your children to keep and do all the words of this law. 47. For it is not a vain word unto you, but it is your life: and this word shall prolong your life in the land whither ye go over Jordan to possess it. 48. And the LORD spake unto Moses the same day, saying: 49. Go up to mount Abarim, to mount Nebo, which is in the land of Moab over against Jericho, and possess the land of Canaan, which I will give unto the children of Israel for a possession, 50. And die in the mount, when thou art come up, and gather thyself unto thy people, as Aaron thy brother died in mount Hor, and gathered himself unto his people, 51. Because ye sinned against me among the children of Israel at the water of odds in Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin, to sanctify me not among the children of Israel; 52. For thou shalt see the land against thee, which I give unto the children of Israel, but thou shalt not enter therein: (Deuteronomy) Chapter 33 Moses' valet blessing and divination. 1. This is the blessing, that Moses the man of God might bless the children of Israel before his death, 2. And said, The LORD is come from Sinai, and is risen up unto them from Seir; he is broken forth from mount Paran, and is come with many thousands of saints: at his right hand is a fiery law unto them. 3. How he loveth the people! All his saints are in thy hand: they shall sit at thy feet, and shall learn of thy words. 4. Moses commanded us the law, the inheritance of the congregation of Jacob. 5. And he administered the office of king, and gathered together the heads of the people with the tribes of Israel. 6. Let Reuben live, and die not; and let his rabble be few. 7. This is the blessing of Judah. And he said, Lord, hear the voice of Judah, and make him ruler over his people, and let his power be great, and let him be helped against his enemies. 8. And he said unto Levi, Let thy judgment and thy light abide with thy holy husband, whom thou hast tried in Massa, when ye fought at the water of Hader. 9. He that saith to his father and to his mother, I see him not; and to his brother, I know him not; and to his son, I know not: they keep thy speech, and keep thy covenant; 10. They shall teach thy statutes unto Jacob, and thy law unto Israel: they shall put incense before thee, and whole sacrifices upon thine altar. 11. Bless, O LORD, his fortunes, and let the works of his hands please thee: bruise the backs of them that rise up against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not up. 12. And to Benjamin he said, The beloved of the LORD shall dwell safely; he shall always keep over him, and shall dwell between his shoulders. 13. And to Joseph he said, His land is in the blessing of the LORD. There is noble fruit from heaven, from the dew, and from the deep that is below. 14. There are noble fruits of the sun, and noble ripe fruits of the moons. 15. And from the high mountains toward the east, and from the hills for and for. 16. And precious fruit of the earth, and that which is therein. Let the grace of him that dwelt in the bush be upon the head of Joseph, and upon the crown of Nasir among his brethren. 17. His glory is like the firstborn ox, and his horns are like the horns of a unicorn: with them shall he thrust the nations together unto the end of the land. These are the thousands of Ephraim, and the thousands of Manasseh. 18. And unto Zebulun he said, Zebulun, rejoice in thy going forth. But, O Issachar, rejoice in thy tents. 19. They shall call the nations unto the mount, and there shall they offer sacrifices of righteousness. For they shall suck the multitude of the sea, and the sunk treasures in the sand. 20. And unto Gad he said, Blessed be Gad the maker of space: he lieth as a lion, and taketh away the arm and the crown. 21. And he saw that there was given unto him a head, a teacher hidden, which came with the rulers of the people, and shewed the righteousness of the LORD, and his judgments toward Israel. 22. And unto Dan he said, Dan a young lion; he shall flow from Bashan. 23. And unto Naphtali he said, Naphtali shall have enough of all that he desireth, and shall be full of the blessing of the LORD: in the evening and in the south shall be his possession. 24. And to Asher he said, Let Asher be blessed with sons; let him be pleasant to his brethren, and dip his foot in oil. 25. Let iron and brass be in his shoes; let thine old age be as thy youth. 26. There is no god but the god of the righteous. He that sitteth in the heavens be thy help, and whose glory is in the clouds. 27. This is the tabernacle of God from the beginning, and among the poor for ever. And he shall cast out thine enemy from before thee, saying, Be thou destroyed. 28. Israel shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob shall be in the land, where there is corn and wine; and his heaven shall drop with dew. 29. Blessed art thou, O Israel, who is like thee? O people, that thou mayest be saved by the LORD, Who is the shield of thy help, And the sword of thy victory! Thine enemies shall lack; But thou shalt tread upon their high places. (Deuteronomy) Chapter 34 Moses' death and what followed it. 1. And Moses passed over from the plains of Moab unto mount Nebo, unto the top of mount Pisgah, toward Jericho. And the LORD shewed him all the land of Gilead, even unto Dan. 2. And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah, unto the uttermost sea. 3. And toward the south, and the region of the breadth of Jericho, the city of palm trees, unto Zoar. 4. And the LORD said unto him, This is the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed. Thou hast seen it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not pass over. 5. So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD. 6. And he buried him in the valley, in the land of Moab, over against the house of Peor. And no man hath known his sepulchre unto this day. 7. And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died. His eyes had not grown dim, nor his strength decayed. 8. And the children of Israel wept for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days. And the days of weeping and lamentation over Moses were fulfilled. 9. And Joshua the son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom: for Moses had laid his hands upon him. And the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the LORD commanded Moses. 10. And there arose no prophet in Israel after the manner of Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face. 11. For all manner of signs and wonders, wherewith the LORD sent him to do them in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh, and to all his servants, and to all his land, 12. And to all this mighty hand and great vision, which Moses did in the sight of all Israel. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Joshua ^ Chapter 1 Joshua is strengthened in his profession. 1. After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' servant: 2. Moses my servant is dead: now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I have given unto them, even to the children of Israel. 3. All the places whereon the soles of your feet shall tread have I given you, as I spake unto Moses. 4. From the wilderness, and this Lebanon, unto the great river Phrath, all the land of the Hittites, unto the great sea westward, shall be your border. 5. No man shall withstand thee all the days of thy life. As I was with Moses, so will I be with thee. I will not leave thee, nor depart from thee. 6. Be thou confident and undaunted: for thou shalt divide unto this people the land which I sware unto their fathers to give them. 7. Only be thou confident and very joyful, that thou keep and do all things according to the law which Moses my servant commanded thee. Depart not from it, to the right hand, or to the left, that thou mayest do wisely in all that thou shalt do. 8. And let not the book of this law depart out of thy mouth, but consider it day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein. Then you will be successful in everything you do, and you will be able to act wisely. 9. Behold, I have commanded thee to be confident and joyful. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee in all that thou shalt do. 10. Then Joshua commanded the captains of the people, saying: 11. Pass through the camp, and command the people, saying, Get ye victuals: for three days shall ye pass over this Jordan, to come in and possess the land which the LORD your God giveth you. 12. And unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, said Joshua: 13. Remember the word which Moses the servant of the LORD spake unto you, saying, The LORD your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this land. 14. Let your wives and your children and your cattle dwell in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan: but go ye before your brethren armed, as valiant men, and help them, 15. Till the LORD bring your brethren also to rest, as he bringeth you, that they also may possess the land which the LORD your God giveth them. Then shall ye return unto your own land, which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you to possess, on this side Jordan, toward the rising of the sun. 16. And they answered Joshua, and said: All that thou hast commanded us we will do; and whither thou sendest us we will go. 17. As we were obedient unto Moses, so will we be obedient unto thee: only that the LORD thy God may be with thee, as he was with Moses. 18. Whosoever shall disobey thy mouth, and shall not obey thy words in all that thou givest us, he shall surely die. Only be of good courage and undaunted. (Joshua) Chapter 2 The scouts are rescued at Rahab. 1. And Joshua the son of Nun sent two spies secretly from Shittim, saying, Go, visit the land, and Jericho. And they went, and came into the house of a harlot named Rahab, and entered into her. 2. And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there are men come in this night of the children of Israel to search the land. 3. And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee into thine house: for they are come to search out all the land. 4. But the woman hid the two men, and said thus, Men came in unto me, but I knew not whence they were. 5. And when they were about to shut the gates, because it was dark, they went out, that I know not whither they went. Chase after them with haste; for ye shall seize them. 6. And she let them go up upon the roof, and hid them under the stalks of flax, which she had spread for them upon the roof. 7. And the men pursued after them by the way of Jordan unto the fords. And they shut the gate, when they were gone out that pursued after them. 8. And before the men lay down to sleep, she went up unto them upon the housetop. 9. And said unto them: I know that the LORD hath given you the land: for terror is fallen upon us because of you, and all the inhabitants of the land are become cowards before your coming. 10. For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Red sea from before you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, Sihon and Og, on the other side Jordan, how ye destroyed them. 11. And since we have heard these things, our heart is troubled, and there is no more courage in any man for your future: for the LORD your God is one God, both in heaven above, and in earth beneath. 12. Now therefore swear unto me by the LORD, that, because I have shewed mercy unto you, ye also shew mercy unto my father's house; and give me a sure sign, 13. That ye save my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our souls from death. 14. And the men said unto her, If we do not do mercy and faithfulness unto thee, when the LORD giveth us the land, our soul shall be put to death for you, except thou betray our business. 15. And she let them down by the rope through the window: for her house was upon the wall of the city, and she dwelt upon the wall. 16. And she said unto them: Go up into the mountain, that they which pursue you meet not; and hide yourselves there three days, until they that pursue you come again: and afterward go your way. 17. And the men said unto her, But we will be loosed from the oath which thou hast taken from us, 18. When we come into the land, and thou hast not tied this red cord in the window, that thou mightest let us down, and gather unto thee into the house thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father's house. 19. And whosoever goeth out at the door of thine house, let his blood be upon his head, and we be guiltless: but of all that are in thine house, if a hand be laid upon them, their blood shall be upon our head. 20. And if thou shalt say any thing of this business of ours, we will be loosed from the oath which thou hast taken of us. 21. And she said, Let it be as ye say; and let them go. And they went. And she knotted the red rope in the window. 22. And they went and came to the mountains, and abode there three days, until they that pursued them should return. For they sought them in all the highways, but found them not. 23. So the two men returned, and went down from the mountains, and passed over; and came to Joshua the son of Nun, and told him all things as they had found them, 24. And they said unto Joshua, The LORD hath delivered all the land into our hand: even so all the inhabitants of the land are cowardly before us. (Joshua) Chapter 3 Israel goes through the Jordan dry-footed. 1. And Joshua arose early, and they departed from Shittim, and came to Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there overnight, before they passed over. 2. And after three days the captains passed through the camp. 3. And they commanded the people, saying: When ye shall see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests of the Levites bearing it, then go out from your place, and follow it. 4. But that between you and her there be a space of two thousand cubits. Ye shall not come nigh unto her, that ye may know by what way ye must go: for ye went not that way before. 5. And Joshua said unto the people, Sanctify yourselves: for to morrow the LORD will do a miracle among you. 6. And he said unto the priests, Carry the ark of the covenant, and go before the people. So they bare the ark of the covenant, and went before the people. 7. And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee before all Israel, that they may know how I was with Moses, even so with thee. 8. And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come forward into the waters of Jordan, then stand still. 9. And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, Come near, and hear the words of the LORD your God. 10. And he said, By this ye shall know that there is a living God among you, and that he will drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the Perizzites, and the Gergosites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites. 11. Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Ruler of all the earth shall pass before you into Jordan. 12. Now therefore take you twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, out of every tribe one. 13. And it shall come to pass, when the soles of the feet of the priests that bear the ark of the LORD, the ruler of all the earth, are let down into the waters of Jordan, that the waters which flow down from above into Jordan shall be cut off, and shall stand upon a heap. 14. And when the people went forth out of their tents to pass over Jordan, and the priests bare the ark of the covenant before the people 15. And they came to Jordan, and dipped their feet in the water before them, (and Jordan was full upon all his banks all the harvest time.) 16. And the waters stood, which came down from above, set up over a heap, very far from the people of the city that lieth on the side of Zartan: but the waters that ran down to the sea, even to the salt sea, abated and were consumed. So the people went over against Jericho. 17. And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD were dry in the midst of Jordan. And all Israel passed through dry, until all the people were all come over Jordan. (Joshua) Chapter 4 Memorials of the miraculous passage through the Jordan. 1. And the LORD said unto Joshua: 2. Take you twelve men, out of every tribe one. 3. And command ye them, saying, Take up out of Jordan twelve stones from the place where the priests' feet stand, and bring them over with you, and leave them in the inn, where ye shall lodge this night. 4. Then Joshua called twelve men, which were appointed of the children of Israel, out of every tribe one, 5. And he said unto them: Go over before the ark of the LORD your God into the midst of Jordan, and lift every man a stone upon his shoulder according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, 6. That they may be a sign among you. When your children shall ask their fathers in time to come, saying: What do these stones do? 7. And ye shall tell them how the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD, when it passed over Jordan: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever. 8. And the children of Israel did as Joshua commanded them, and took twelve stones out of the midst of Jordan, as the LORD spake unto Joshua, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, and brought them over with them unto the inn, and left them there. 9. And Joshua set up twelve stones in the midst of Jordan, where the feet of the priests that bare the ark of the covenant stood: and they are there unto this day. 10. For the priests that bare the ark stood in the midst of Jordan, until all things were fulfilled, which the LORD commanded Joshua to say unto the people, as Moses commanded Joshua. And the people hasted, and passed over. 11. And when all the people were passed over, the ark of the LORD passed over also, and the priests before the people. 12. And the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, went armed before the children of Israel, as Moses spake unto them. 13. And forty thousand armed for an army went before the LORD to battle in the plains of Jericho. 14. In that day the LORD magnified Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they feared him, as they feared Moses all the days of his life. 15. And the LORD said unto Joshua: 16: Command the priests that bear the ark of the testimony, that they come up out of Jordan. 17. So Joshua commanded the priests, saying, Come up out of Jordan. 18. And when the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD came up out of Jordan, and trod upon the dry land with the soles of their feet, the waters of Jordan returned unto their place, and flowed as before upon all the banks thereof. 19. And it was the tenth day of the first month, when the people came up out of Jordan, and pitched in Gilgal toward the east of Jericho. 20. And the twelve stones which they had taken out of Jordan, Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21. And he said unto the children of Israel, When your children shall ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean these stones? 22. Then ye shall make it known unto them, saying, Israel passed over Jordan dry, 23. When the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye passed over; as the LORD your God did in the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we passed over; 24. That all the nations of the earth may know the hand of the LORD, how mighty it is: that ye may fear the LORD your God always. (Joshua) Chapter 5 Circumcision and Passover performed in the Promised Land. 1. And when all the kings of the Amorites that dwelt on the west side Jordan, and all the kings of the Canaanites that dwelt by the sea, heard how that the LORD had dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until they were passed over, their heart was troubled, and there was no more courage in them from before the children of Israel. 2. And at that time the LORD said unto Joshua, Make thee knives of stone, and circumcise the children of Israel again the second time. 3. And Joshua made him knives of stone, and circumcised the children of Israel in the hill of Araloth. 4. And this is the cause why Joshua circumcised all the people that came out of Egypt, even the likenesses of men: for all the men of war died in the wilderness in the way that they came out of Egypt. 5. For all the people that came out were circumcised: but all the people that were born in the wilderness, in the way that they came out of Egypt, they were not circumcised. 6. For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, until all the people of the men of war that came out of Egypt perished, because they hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD: as the LORD sware unto them that they should not see the land which the LORD sware unto their fathers to give us, a land flowing with milk and honey. 7. The same children that came up in their stead Joshua circumcised: for they had foreskin, and were not circumcised in the way. 8. And when all the people were circumcised, they abode in their place in the camp, until they were healed. 9. And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day have I turned away the reproach of Egypt from you: and the same place was called Gilgal unto this day. 10. And it came to pass, when the children of Israel were encamped in Gilgal, that they kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the month in the evening in the coasts of Jericho. 11. And they did eat of the corn of the land on the second day of the passover, unleavened bread, and singing, the same day. 12. And the man ceased on the morrow, when they did eat the corn of the land, that the children of Israel had no more man; but they did eat the corn of the land of Canaan of the same year. 13. And it came to pass, when Joshua was at Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes, and perceived a man standing against him, having a mere sword in his hand. And Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou with us, or with our enemies? 14. And he said, Nay; but I am a ruler over the host of the LORD, and am come now. Then Joshua fell on his face to the ground, and worshipped, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant? 15. And the prince of the host of the LORD said unto Joshua, Put off thy shoes from off thy feet: for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so. (Joshua) Chapter 6 Conquest and destruction of the city of Jericho. 1. And Jericho was shut up, and kept from the children of Israel, that no man might come in or go out. 2. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Behold, I have delivered Jericho into thine hand, and her king, and her men of war. 3. Let all the men of war go round about the city once; and do so six days. 4. And on the seventh day let the priests take seven trumpets of the trumpet before the ark, and go about the city seven times on the seventh day, and let the priests blow with the trumpets. 5. And when they blow the trumpet in the year of jubile, and sound the trumpet, then shall all the people make a great shout, and the walls of the city shall fall down, and the people shall fall every man straight before him; 6. Then Joshua the son of Nun called unto the priests, and said unto them: Bear ye the ark of the covenant, and let seven priests bear seven trumpets of the jubilee before the ark of the LORD. 7. And he said unto the people, Go and compass the city, and let him that is armed go before the ark of the LORD. 8. And it came to pass, when Joshua had told the people, that the seven priests brought seven trumpets before the ark of the LORD, and went and blew with the trumpets: and the ark of the covenant of the LORD followed them. 9. And he that was armed went before the priests that blew with the trumpets: and the multitude followed after the ark, and blew with the trumpets. 10. And Joshua commanded the people, saying: Ye shall not make a shout, nor let your voice be heard, nor let a word proceed out of your mouth, until the day that I shall say unto you: Make a shout; then make a shout. 11. So the ark of the LORD went round about the city once; and they entered into the camp, and abode therein. 12. For Joshua rose up early in the morning, and the priests bare the ark of the LORD. 13. So the seven priests bare the seven trumpets of the jubilee before the ark of the LORD, and went and blew with the trumpets: and they that were armed went before them, and the company followed the ark of the LORD, and blew with the trumpets. 14. And the next day they went about the city once, and returned into the camp. So they did six days. 15. And on the seventh day, when the dawn was risen, they rose up early, and compassed the city after the same manner seven times: so that on that day they compassed the city seven times. 16. And the seventh time, when the priests blew with the trumpets, Joshua said unto the people, Make a noise: for the LORD hath given you the city. 17. But this city, and all that is therein, shall be utterly destroyed unto the LORD. But Rahab the harlot shall live, and all that are with her in the house: for she hid the messengers which we sent. 18. But beware of him that is banished, lest ye banish yourselves, and take any thing of him that is banished, and banish the camp of Israel, and bring evil upon it. 19. And all the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, shall be sanctified unto the LORD, to be the treasures of the LORD. 20. And the people made a great shout, and blew with the trumpets. And when the people heard the sound of the trumpets, they made a great shout. And the walls fell down, and the people went up into the city every man straight before him. So they took the city. 21. And they utterly destroyed all that were in the city with the edge of the sword, both man and woman, young and old, ox, sheep, and ass. 22. And Joshua said unto the two men that spied out the land, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out the woman from thence, and all that she hath, as ye sware. 23. And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had, and all her family, and left them without the camp of Israel. 24. And they burnt the city with fire, and all that was therein. But the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, they put for a treasure into the house of the LORD. 25. And Rahab the harlot, and her father's house, and all that she had, let Joshua live. And she dwelt in Israel unto this day, because she hid the messengers which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho. 26. At that time Joshua sware, saying, Cursed be the man before the LORD that setteth up and buildeth this city Jericho. When he layeth the foundation thereof, it shall cost him his first son: and when he setteth up the gates thereof, it shall cost him his youngest son. 27. So the LORD was with Joshua, that it was said of him throughout all the earth. (Joshua) Chapter 7 Achan punished for theft. 1. And the children of Israel took the banished man: for Achan the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the banished man. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel. 2. And Joshua sent men from Jericho unto Ai, which is by Bethaven, toward the east of Bethel, and said unto them: Go up, and reconnoitre the land: and when they were gone up, and had reconnoitred Ai, 3. And they came again to Joshua, and said unto him, Let not all the people go up, but let them go up by two or three thousand men, and smite Ai, lest all the people be troubled there: for they are few. 4. So the people went up about three thousand men: and they fled before the men of Ai. 5. And the men of Ai smote them about thirty and six men, and chased them out of the gate unto Shabarim, and smote them down the way. And the people's hearts were troubled, and they were turned into water. 6. And Joshua rent his clothes, and fell to the earth upon his face before the ark of the LORD until the even, with the elders of Israel, and cast dust upon their heads. 7. And Joshua said, O Lord, Lord, why hast thou brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites to destroy us? O that we had stayed beyond Jordan, as we began! 8. O my lord, what shall I say, because Israel hath turned her back upon her enemies? 9. When the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land hear it, they shall compass us about, and cut off our name from the earth. What wilt thou do by thy great name? 10. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Arise. Wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? 11. Israel have sinned, and have transgressed my covenant which I commanded them, and have taken the banished man, and have stolen, and have denied, and have put him among their vessels. 12. The children of Israel shall not stand before their enemies, but shall turn their backs upon their enemies: for they are under the ban: I will not be with you hence, except ye destroy the ban from among you. 13. Arise, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves to morrow. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, There is a curse upon thee, O Israel: therefore thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye put away the curse from among you. 14. And ye shall make your hearts early, one tribe after another: and what tribe the LORD shall smite, that shall make itself hearty, one family after another: and what family the LORD shall smite, that shall make itself hearty, one house after another: and what house the LORD shall smite, that shall make itself hearty, one landlord after another. 15. And he that is found in the ban shall be burned with fire with all that he hath, because he hath transgressed the covenant of the LORD, and because he hath committed folly in Israel. 16. And Joshua rose up early in the morning, and brought Israel in one tribe after another: and the tribe of Judah was taken. 17. And when he brought in the families of Judah, the family of the Zerahites was taken. And when he brought in the family of the Zerahites, one landlord after another, Zabdi was taken. 18. And when he had brought in his house one host after another, Achan the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, was taken. 19. And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give glory unto the LORD God of Israel, and give him praise: and tell me, what hast thou done? and deny me nothing. 20. And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Verily I have sinned against the LORD God of Israel; so and so have I done. 21. And I saw among the rough a precious Babylonian mantle, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a golden tongue, worth fifty shekels by weight: I lusted after it, and took it. And, behold, it is buried in the earth in my tent, and the silver under it. 22. And Joshua sent messengers, and they ran unto the tabernacle: and, behold, it was buried in his tabernacle, and the silver under it. 23. And they took it out of the tabernacle, and brought it unto Joshua, and to all the children of Israel, and cast it before the LORD. 24. And Joshua and all Israel with him took Achan the son of Zerah, and his silver, and his mantle, and his golden tongue, and his sons, and his daughters, and his oxen, and his asses, and his sheep, and his tent, and all that he had, and brought them up into the valley of Achor. 25. And Joshua said, Because thou hast afflicted us, let the LORD afflict thee this day. And all Israel stoned him, and burned them with fire. And when they had stoned them, 26. And they made upon them a great heap of stones, which remaineth unto this day. So the LORD turned back from the fury of his wrath. Therefore the name of that place is called the valley of Achor unto this day. (Joshua) Chapter 8 Siege and conquest of the city of Ai. 1. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be dismayed. Take with thee all the people of war, and arise, and go up to Ai. Behold, I have delivered into thy hand king Als, and his people, and his city, and his land. 2. And thou shalt do unto Ai and her king as thou didst unto Jericho and her king, without dividing her spoil of her cattle among you. But set an ambush behind the city. 3. And Joshua arose, and all the people of war, to go up to Ai. And Joshua chose thirty thousand men of valour, and sent them out by night. 4. And commanded them, saying, Take heed, ye shall be the ambush behind the city: but get you not too far from the city, and be ye all ready. 5. And I, and all the people that are with me, will make for the city. And if they come out to meet us, as before, we will flee before them, 6. That they may come out after us, until we have plucked them out of the city. For they shall remember that we flee from them, as before. And because we flee from them, 7. And ye shall arise out of ambush, and take the city: for the LORD your God shall deliver it into your hand. 8. And when ye have taken the city, set it on fire, and do according to the word of the LORD. Behold, I have commanded you. 9. So Joshua sent them, and they went into ambush, and halted between Bethel and Ai on the west side of Ai. And Joshua tarried that night among the people. 10. And he rose up early in the morning, and gathered the people together, and went up with the elders of Israel before the people unto Ai. 11. And all the people of war that were with him went up, and drew near, and came against the city, and pitched before Ai on the north side; and there was but a valley between him and Ai. 12. And he took about five thousand men, and set them in ambush between Bethel and Ai on the west side of the city. 13. And they set the people of all the camp, which were toward the north of the city, to be the last of them toward the west of the city. So Joshua went that night into the midst of the valley. 14. And when the king of Ai saw it, they made haste, and rose up early, and the men of the city out to meet Israel to battle, with all his people, unto a certain place before the border. For he knew not that there was an ambush against him behind the city. 15. And Joshua and all Israel stood as though they were smitten before them, and fled by the way of the wilderness. 16. And all the people of the city cried out, that they should pursue them. 17. And they also pursued after Joshua, and went out of the city, that there remained not a man in Ai and Bethel, that went not out after Israel: and they left the city open, to pursue after Israel. 18. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Stretch out the spear that is in thine hand against Ai; for I will deliver it into thine hand. And when Joshua stretched out the spear that was in his hand against the city, 19. And the ambush arose in haste out of his place, and ran after he stretched forth his hand, and came into the city, and took it; and hasted, and set it on fire. 20. And the men of Ai turned, and looked behind them, and saw the smoke of the city ascend up to heaven, and had no place to flee to or from. And the people that fled to the wilderness turned back to pursue after them. 21. For when Joshua and all Israel saw that the ambush had taken the city, because there was smoke in the city, they turned again, and smote the men of Ai. 22. And they that were in the city came out to meet them, and came in the midst of Israel from thence, and from thence: and they smote them, until none of them remained, nor escaped. 23. And they took the king of Ai alive, and brought him to Joshua. 24. And when Israel had slain all the inhabitants of Ai in the field, and in the wilderness, which pursued after them, and were all fallen with the edge of the sword, until they were all consumed, then all Israel returned unto Ai, and smote them with the edge of the sword. 25. And all that fell that day, both men and women, were twelve thousand, all the people of Ai. 26. And Joshua removed not his hand again to stretch forth the spear, until all the inhabitants of Ai were utterly destroyed. 27. Without the cattle, and the spoil of the city, Israel divided among themselves according to the word of the LORD, which he commanded Joshua. 28. And Joshua burnt Ai, and made a heap of it for ever, which lieth there to this day. 29. And he hanged the king of Ai upon a tree until the even. And when the sun was down, he commanded that his body should be taken down from the tree, and they cast it under the gate of the city, and made a great heap of stones upon it, which is there unto this day. 30. Then Joshua built an altar unto the LORD God of Israel in mount Ebal. 31. As Moses the servant of the LORD commanded the children of Israel, as it is written in the book of the law of Moses, an altar of whole stones hewn with no iron: and they offered upon it burnt offerings and peace offerings unto the LORD. 32. And there he wrote upon the stones the other law, which Moses commanded the children of Israel. 33. And all Israel, and their elders, and their officers, and their judges, stood on both sides of the ark before the priests of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD, both the strangers and the sojourners, half of them beside mount Grisim, and half of them beside mount Ebal; as Moses the servant of the LORD commanded before, to bless the people of Israel. 34. And afterward he proclaimed all the words of the law, blessings and cursings, as it is written in the book of the law. 35. There was not a word that Moses commanded, which Joshua spake not before all the congregation of Israel, and before the women, and the children, and the strangers that sojourned among them. (Joshua) Chapter 9 The Gibeonites come into the covenant with guile. 1. And it came to pass, when all the kings that were on the other side Jordan, in the mountains, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea, and that were by the side of mount Lebanon, the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, heard these things, 2. And they gathered themselves together with one accord, and fought against Joshua, and against Israel. 3. But the men of Gibeon, when they heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai, devised a stratagem; 4. And they went and sent a message, and took old sacks upon their asses. 5. And old torn and mended wineskins, and old mended shoes, put on their feet, and put on old garments: and all the bread that they took with them was hard and mouldy. 6. And they went to Joshua into the camp to Gilgal, and said unto him, and to all Israel, We are come from a far country: now therefore make a covenant with us. 7. And all Israel said unto the Hivite, Peradventure thou wilt dwell among us: how then can I make a covenant with thee? 8. And they said unto Joshua, We are thy servants. And Joshua said unto them: Who are ye, and whence come ye? 9. And they said: Thy servants are come from very far countries for the name of the LORD thy God: for we have heard his tidings, and all that he did in Egypt, 10. And all that he did to the two kings of the Amorites that were beyond Jordan, to Sihon king of Heshbon, and to Og king of Bashan, which dwelt in Ashtaroth. 11. Therefore said our elders, and all the inhabitants of our land: Take food with you on your journey, and go out to meet them, and speak to them; we are your servants. Now therefore make a covenant with us. 12. This our bread, which we took out of our houses for our meat, was yet fresh when we went forth unto you: but now, behold, it is hard and mouldy; 13. And these wineskins we filled anew, and, behold, they are rent: and these our garments and our shoes are become old by reason of the very long journey. 14. Then the captains received their meat, and asked not the mouth of the LORD. 15. And Joshua made peace with them, and established a covenant with them, that they should live. And the rulers of the congregation sware unto them. 16. But about three days after they had made a covenant with them, it came to pass, that they were nigh unto them, and dwelt among them. 17. For when the children of Israel departed, they came the third day unto their cities, which were called Gibeon, and Caphirah, and Beeroth, and Kiriathjearim. 18. And they smote them not, because the rulers of the congregation had sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel. And when all the congregation murmured against the princes, 19. And all the rulers of the whole congregation said: We have sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel; therefore we cannot touch them. 20. But this we will do: let them live, lest wrath come upon us for the oath which we have taken unto them. 21. And the princes said unto them: Let them live, that they may be hewers of wood and drawers of water unto all the congregation, as the princes said unto them. 22. And Joshua called unto them, and spake unto them, saying, Why have ye deceived us, saying, Ye are very far from us, when ye dwell among us? 23. Therefore ye shall be accursed, that there shall not cease from among you servants that hew wood and carry water unto the house of my God. 24. And they answered Joshua, and said: It is told thy servants, that the LORD thy God commanded Moses his servant to give you all the land, and to destroy before you all the inhabitants of the land. So we feared for our lives because of you, and we have done this. 25. But now, behold, we are in thy hands: what it seemeth thee good and right to do unto us, do that. 26. And he did so unto them, and delivered them out of the hand of the children of Israel, that they slew them not. 27. So Joshua made them that day hewers of wood, and drinkers of water for the congregation, and altars of the LORD unto that day in the place which he would choose. (Joshua) Chapter 10 Wonderful victory of Joshua against the Amorites. 1. And it came to pass, when Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem heard that Joshua had taken Ai, and had utterly destroyed them, and had done to Ai and her king, as he had done to Jericho and her king, and that they of Gibeon had made peace with Israel, and had come among them, 2. They feared greatly (for Gibeon was a great city, as a royal city, and greater than Ai, and all the citizens thereof contentious). 3. And he sent to Hoham king of Hebron, and to Piream king of Jarmuth, and to Japhia king of Lachish, and to Debir king of Eglon, saying: 4. Come up unto me, and help me, that we may smite Gibeon: for she hath made peace with Joshua and with the children of Israel. 5. And the five kings of the Amorites came up in multitude, the king of Jerusalem, and the king of Hebron, and the king of Jarmuth, and the king of Lachish, and the king of Eglon, with all their camp, and occupied Gibeon, and fought against them. 6. And they that were in Gibeon sent unto Joshua to the camp to Gilgal, saying, Turn not thy hand from thy servants. Come up to us in haste, save us, and help us: for all the kings of the Amorites that dwell in the mountains are gathered together against us. 7. And Joshua went up from Gilgal, and all the people of war with him, and all the valiant men. 8. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand: there shall not any of them be able to stand before thee. 9. So Joshua came upon them suddenly, for all night he went up from 10. But the LORD rebuked them before Israel, and they fought a great battle at Gibeon, and pursued after them by the way of Bethhoron, and smote them unto Azekah and Makkedah. 11. And as they fled before Israel by the way of Bethhoron, the LORD sent down great hail from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died. And many more died of the hail, than the children of Israel slew with the sword. 12. And Joshua spake unto the LORD in the day that the LORD delivered up the Amorites in the sight of the children of Israel, and said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand still in Gibeon; and moon, in the valley of Ajalon. 13. And the sun and the moon stood still, until the people had avenged themselves on their enemies. Is not this written in the book of the pious? And the sun stood in the midst of heaven, and went not down all that day. 14. And there was no day like unto it, before or since, that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the LORD fought for Israel. 15. And Joshua returned to the camp to Gilgal, and all Israel with him. 16. But the five kings had fled, and hid themselves in the cave of Makkedah. 17. And Joshua was told, We have found the five kings hid in the cave of Makkedah. 18. And Joshua said, Roll great stones before the hole of the cave, and appoint men over it to keep them. 19. But ye stand not still, but pursue after your enemies, and smite the hindmost of them; and let them not enter into their cities: for the LORD your God hath delivered them into your hand. 20. And it came to pass, when Joshua and the children of Israel had finished this very great battle upon them, and had smitten them, that the remnant of them that remained came into the strong cities. 21. So all the people returned into the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in peace: and no man lifted up his tongue before the children of Israel. 22. And Joshua said, Open the hole of the cave, and bring forth the five kings unto me. 23. So they did, and brought the five kings unto him out of the cave, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, the king of Eglon. 24. And when the five kings were brought forth unto him, Joshua called unto all Israel, and said unto the captains of the people of war that went with him, Come near, and tread upon the necks of these kings with your feet. And they came near, and trod on their necks with their feet. 25. And Joshua said unto them: Fear not, nor be dismayed; be of good courage and undaunted: for so will the LORD do unto all your enemies against whom ye fight. 26. And Joshua smote them afterward, and slew them, and hanged them upon five trees: and they hung upon the trees until the even. 27. And when the sun was down, he commanded that they should be taken down from the trees, and cast into the cave wherein they were hid: and they laid great stones before the cave hole. They are still there to this day. 28. That day Joshua also took Makkedah, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and the king thereof, and burned it, and all the souls that were therein, and left none remaining: and he did unto the king of Makkedah as he had done unto the king of Jericho. 29. And Joshua and all Israel went with him from Makkedah to Libnah, and fought against them. 30. And the LORD delivered the same into the hand of Israel with their king, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein, and left none remaining within: and he did unto their king as he did unto the king of Jericho. 31. And afterward Joshua and all Israel went with him from Libnah to Lachish, and occupied and disputed with them. 32. And the LORD delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel, and they took it the next day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein, according to all that he had done to Libnah. 33. And at that time Horam king of Gezer went up to help Lachish: but Joshua smote him with all his people, until none remained within. 34. And Joshua went from Lachish, and all Israel, to Eglon, and besieged them, and fought against them. 35. And he took them the same day, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and destroyed all the souls that were therein the same day, according to all that he had done to Lachish. 36. And Joshua and all Israel went up from Eglon to Hebron, and fought against them. 37. And he took them, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and their king, and all their cities, and all the souls that were therein; and left none remaining, according to all that he had done to Eglon, and banished them, and all the souls that were therein. 38. And Joshua returned again with all Israel unto Debir, and fought against them. 39. And he took them, and their king, and all their cities, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed all the souls that were therein, and left none remaining. As he had done to Hebron, so did he to Debir and her king, and as he had done to Libnah and her king. 40. So Joshua smote all the country in the mountains, and in the south, and in the valleys, and by the rivers, with all the kings thereof: and he left none remaining, and hid all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded. 41. And he smote them from Kadeshbarnea unto Gaza, and all the land of Goshen unto Gibeon. 42. And he took all these kings with their land at one time: for the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel. 43. And Joshua returned into the camp to Gilgal with all Israel. (Joshua) Chapter 11 Extermination of the Canaanites. 1. And when Jabin king of Hazor heard these things, he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achsaph. 2. And to the kings that dwelt on the north side of the mountains, and on the south side of Cinnereth, and in the valley, and in Naphoth-dor by the sea. 3. And the Canaanites toward the east, and toward the west, and the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, in the mountains, and the Hivites in the lower part of mount Hermon, in the land of Mizpah. 4. These went out with all their host, a great multitude, as the sand of the sea, and many horses and chariots. 5. And all these kings gathered themselves together, and came and pitched by the waters of Merom, to fight with Israel. 6. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for to morrow about this time will I give them all to be slain before the children of Israel: their horses shalt thou cause to cease, and their chariots shalt thou burn with fire. 7. And Joshua came suddenly upon them, and all the people of war with him, by the water of Merom, and overtook them. 8. And the LORD delivered them into the hand of Israel, and smote them, and chased them unto great Zidon, and unto the warm waters, and unto the breadth of Mizpeh toward the east, and smote them, until there was none left of them. 9. Then Joshua did unto them as the LORD had said unto him, and he crippled their horses, and burned their chariots. 10. And he returned in that day, and took Hazor, and smote the king thereof with the sword (for Hazor was the chief city of all those kingdoms before). 11. And smote all the souls that were therein with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed them, and left none that had breath; and burnt Hazor with fire. 12. And Joshua took all the cities of those kings with their kings, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and destroyed them, as Moses the servant of the LORD commanded. 13. But the children of Israel burned no cities that were upon the hills: only Hazor burned Joshua. 14. And all the spoil of those cities, and the cattle, did the children of Israel divide among themselves; but all the people they smote with the edge of the sword, until they destroyed them, and left none that had breath. 15. As the LORD commanded Moses his servant, and Moses Joshua; so Joshua did, that there was nothing wanting in all that the LORD commanded Moses. 16. So Joshua took all this land in the mountains, and all that lieth southward, and all the land of Goshen, and the grounds, and the fields, and the mountains of Israel with their bases, 17. From the mountains that divide the land up to Seir, unto Baal-gad, in the breadth of mount Lebanon, under mount Hermon. And all their kings he overcame, and smote them, and slew them. 18. But he contended with these kings a long time. 19. And there was no city that yielded peaceably unto the children of Israel, save the Hivites that dwelt at Gibeon: but they took them all by battle. 20. And it came to pass from the LORD, that their hearts were hardened to meet the children of Israel with strife, that they might be utterly destroyed, and that no mercy might be shown them, but that they might be destroyed, as the LORD commanded Moses. 21. And it came to pass at that time, that Joshua came and cut off the Enakims from the mountains, from Hebron, and from Debir, and from Anab, and from all the mountains of Judah, and from all the mountains of Israel, and bound them with their cities. 22. And there remained no Enakim in the land of the children of Israel, save in Gaza, and in Gath, and in Ashdod, where they remained. 23. So Joshua took all the land, according to all that the LORD spake unto Moses, and gave it for an inheritance unto Israel, to every tribe his portion. And the land ceased from war. (Joshua) Chapter 12 Defeated Kings. 1. These are the kings of the land, which smote the children of Israel, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the sunrising, from the waters of Arnon even unto mount Hermon, and all the plain toward the east: 2. Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt in Heshbon, and reigned from Aroer, which is on the bank of the river by Arnon, and in the midst of the river, and over half Gilead unto the river Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon, 3. And over the plain unto the sea of Cinneroth eastward, and unto the sea of the plain, even the salt sea eastward, by the way of Beth-jesimoth, and from southward by the streams of mount Pisgah. 4. And the border of Og king of Bashan, which was left of the giants, dwelling in Ashtaroth and Edrei. 5. And he reigned over mount Hermon, and over Salcah, and over all Bashan, unto the border of Geshuri, and Maachathi, and half Gilead, which was the border of Sihon king of Heshbon. 6. And Moses the servant of the LORD, and the children of Israel, smote them. And Moses the servant of the LORD gave them to be taken by the Reubenites, and by the Gadites, and by the half tribe of Manasseh. 7. These are the kings of the land, which Joshua smote, and the children of Israel on this side Jordan toward the even, from Baalgad, even unto the breadth of mount Lebanon, unto the mountain that divideth the land up to Seir; which Joshua gave to the tribes of Israel to possess, every man his part, 8. And the mountains, and the valleys, and the valleys, and the rivers, and the wilderness, and the south country: the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 9. The king of Jericho, the king of Ai, which is on the side of Bethel, 10. The king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, 11. The king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, 12. The king of Eglon, the king of Gezer, 13. The king of Debir, the king of Geder, 14. The king of Horma, the king of Arad, 15. The king of Libnah, the king of Adullam, 16. The king of Makkedah, the king of Bethel, 17. The king to Tapuah, the king to Hepher, 18. The king of Aphek, the king of Lasaron, 19. The king of Madon, the king of Hazor, 20. The king of Simron-meron, the king of Achsaph, 21. The king of Thaenach, the king of Megiddo, 22. The king of Kedesh, the king of Jacneam of Carmel, 23. The king of Naphtoth-dor, the king of the Gentiles in Gilgal, 24. The king of Thirzah. That is thirty and one kings. (Joshua) Chapter 13 Distribution of the land is made. 1. And it came to pass, when Joshua was old and well advanced in years, that the LORD said unto him, Thou art old and well advanced in years, and there is yet much land left to possess, 2. Namely, all Galilee of the Philistines, and all Gessuri, 3. From Sihor, which is before Egypt, unto the border of Ekron northward, which is of the Canaanites, five lords of the Philistines; the Gashite, the Ashdodite, the Ashclonite, the Gittite, the Ekronite, and the Avite. 4. And from the south all the land of the Canaanites, and Mearah of the Zidonians, unto Aphek, unto the border of the Amorites; 5. And the land of the Giblites, and all Lebanon toward the rising of the sun, from Baal-gad under mount Hermon unto Hamath: 6. All they that dwell in the mountains, from Lebanon even unto the warm waters, and all the Zidonians. I will drive them out from before the children of Israel. Cast lots only to divide them among Israel, as I commanded thee. 7. Now therefore divide this land for an inheritance among the nine tribes, and among the half tribe of Manasseh. 8. For the Reubenites and the Gadites have received their inheritance with the other half of Manasseh, which Moses gave them on the other side Jordan toward the going up, as Moses the servant of the LORD gave them: 9. From Aroer, which is by the river at Arnon, and from the city that is in the midst of the river, and all the region of Medba, unto Dibon; 10. And all the cities of Sihon king of the Amorites, which sat in Heshbon, unto the border of the children of Ammon. 11. And Gilead, and the border of Gessuri, and Maachathi, and all mount Hermon, and all Bashan, unto Salcah; 12. All the kingdom of Og in Bashan, which sat in Ashtaroth and Edrei, which was the rest of the giants. And Moses smote them, and cast them out. 13. And the children of Israel did not drive out those that were in Geshur, and those that were in Maachath: but both Geshur and Maachath dwelt among the children of Israel unto this day. 14. But unto the tribe of the Levites he gave no inheritance: for the sacrifice of the LORD God of Israel is their inheritance, as he spake unto them. 15. So Moses gave to the tribe of the children of Reuben according to their families, 16. And their border was from Aroer, which is on the bank of the river by Arnon, and the city in the midst of the river, with all the plain, unto Medbah; 17. Heshbon, and all the cities thereof that are in the plain; Dibon, and Bamothbaal, and Bethbaal-meon, 18. Jahza, Kedemoth, Mephaath, 19. kiriathaim, sibma, zereth sahar on the mountain in the valley, 20. beth-peor, the streams at pisgah and beth-jesimoth 21. And all the cities of the plain, and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, which sat in Heshbon, whom Moses smote, and the princes of Midian, Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba, the mighty men of king Sihon, that dwelt in the land. 22. And Balaam the son of Beor the diviner did the children of Israel slay with the sword, with them that were slain. 23. And the border of the children of Reuben was Jordan This is the inheritance of the children of Reuben among their families, cities, and villages. 24. To the tribe of the children of Gad among their families Moses gave, 25. And their coast was Jaesher, and all the cities of Gilead, and half the land of the children of Ammon, unto Aroer, which is before Rabbah; 26. And from Heshbon unto Ramath-mizpeh and Betonim, and from Mahanaim unto the border of Debir; 27. And in the valley of Bethharam, and Bethnimrah, and Sukhoth, and Zaphon, which was left of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, the border of Jordan, unto the end of the sea of Cinnereth, on this side Jordan eastward. 28. This is the inheritance of the children of Gad in their families, in their cities, and in their villages. 29. To the half tribe of the children of Manasseh according to their families Moses gave, 30. And their border was from Mahanaim, all Bashan, all the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, and all the villages of Jair which are in Bashan, even threescore cities. 31. And half Gilead, Ashtaroth, Edrei, the cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, gave he to the children. Machir the son of Manasseh, that is, to the half of the children of Machir, according to their families. 32. This is it that Moses distributed in the plains of Moab, on the other side Jordan, before Jericho, toward the going up. 33. But unto the tribe of Levi Moses gave no inheritance: for the LORD God of Israel is their inheritance, as he spake unto them. (Joshua) Chapter 14 Of Caleb's inheritance. 1. Now this is the possession of the children of Israel in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, distributed among them. 2. And they divided it by lot among them, as the LORD commanded by Moses, to give unto the ten tribes and an half. 3. For unto the two and to the half tribe Moses had given an inheritance on the other side Jordan. But unto the Levites he gave no inheritance among them. 4. For the children of Joseph were two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim: therefore they gave the Levites no part in the land, but cities to dwell in, and suburbs for their cattle and for their substance. 5. As the LORD commanded Moses, so did the children of Israel, and divided the land. 6. And the children of Judah came unto Joshua at Gilgal: and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said unto him, Thou knowest what the LORD said unto Moses the man of God concerning me and thee in Kadeshbarnea. 7. I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me out from Kadeshbarnea to search the land, and I told him again according to my conscience. 8. But my brethren which went up with me made the heart of the people faint: but I followed the LORD my God faithfully. 9. And Moses sware the same day, saying, The land whereon thou hast trodden with thy foot shall be thine and thy children's inheritance for ever: because thou hast faithfully followed the LORD my God. 10. And now, behold, the LORD hath given me life, as he spake. It is now forty and five years since the LORD spake these things unto Moses, which Israel walked in the wilderness. And now, behold, I am this day eighty and five years old. 11. And I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me forth: as my strength was then, so is it now, to fight and to go out and to come in. 12. Give me therefore this mountain, which the LORD spake of that day: for thou heardest it that day. For the Enakims dwell above, and are great and strong cities: if the LORD would be with me to drive them out, as the LORD hath said. 13. And Joshua blessed him, and gave Hebron unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 14. Therefore Hebron was the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because he followed the LORD God of Israel faithfully. 15. And the name of Hebron in old time was Kiriath-arba, who was a great man among the Enakims. And the land ceased from war. (Joshua) Chapter 15 Border and cities of the tribe of Judah. 1. The lot of the tribe of the children of Judah among their families was the border of Edom in the wilderness of Zin, which is on the south side, in the corner of the south country, 2. Their south borders were from the corner of the salt sea, that is, from the tongue that goeth toward the south, 3. And come out from thence up to Akrabbim, and pass through Zin; and go up from the south toward Kadeshbarnea; and pass through Hezron, and go up to Adar, and go about Karkaa; 4. And pass through Azmon, and come out unto the river of Egypt, that the end of the border may be the sea. And this shall be your border toward the south. 5. And the morning border is from the salt sea unto the end of Jordan. And the north border is from the tongue of the sea, which is at the place of Jordan, 6. And go up to Beth-hagla, and go on the north side to Beth-arabah, and come up to the stone of Bohen the son of Reuben; 7. And go up to Debir, from the valley of Achor, and from the midnight place that looketh toward Gilgal, which is over against Adumim, which lieth by the water from the south. And afterward she went unto the water of Enzhemesh, and came out unto the well of Rogel. 8. And she went up to the valley of the son of Hinnom on the side of the Jebusite, which dwelleth on the south side, which is Jerusalem: and she came up to the top of the mountain that lieth before the valley of Hinnom on the west side, which cometh to the corner of the valley of Raphaim on the north side. 9. Afterward it cometh down from the top of the same mountain unto the fountain of the waters of Nephthoah, and cometh out unto the cities of mount Ephron, and inclineth unto Baalah, which is Kiriathjearim; 10. And he turned round from Baalah toward the west to mount Seir, and went on the side of mount Jearim from the north, which is Chessalon, and came down to Bethshemesh, and passed through Timnah; 11. And he went out from the side of Ekron toward the north, and went toward Shicron: and he passed over mount Baalah, and came out to Jabneel; and the last of them was the sea. 12. And the border toward the west is the great sea. This is the border of the children of Judah round about in their families. 13. And to Caleb the son of Jephunneh shall be given his portion among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the LORD Joshua, even Kiriath-arba, the father of Enak, which is Hebron. 14. And Caleb cast out from thence the three sons of Enak; Shesai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, born of Enak. 15. And he went up from thence unto the inhabitants of Debir. And the name of Debir in old time was Kiriath-sepher. 16. And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kiriath-shepher, and taketh her, to him will I give my daughter Achsah to wife. 17. And Athniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's brother, took her, and gave him Achsah his daughter to wife. 18. And it came to pass, when she was come in, that she was bidden to claim a field of her father's; and she fell down from off her ass. And Caleb said unto her, What is the matter with thee? 19. And she said, Give me a blessing: for thou hast given me a south land, give me also springs of water. So he gave her fountains above and below. 20. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah among their families. 21. And the cities of the tribe of the children of Judah, from one corner to another, by the border of Edom southward, were these: Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur, 22. Kina, Dimona, Ad-Ada, 23. Kedes, Hazor, Ithnan, 24. siph, telem, bealoth, 25. Hazor-hadata, Kirioth-hezron, that is Hazor, 26. Amam, Sema, Molada, 27. hazar-gadda, hesmon, beth-palet, 28. Hazar-Sual, Beer-Seba, Bisjoth-Ja, 29. Baala, Ijim, Azem, 30. EI-Tholad, Chesil, Horma, 31. Ziklag, Madmanna, Sansanna, 32. Lebaoth, Shilhim, Ain, Rimon. These are twenty and nine cities and their villages. 33. And in the causes was Esthaol, Zarea, Asna, 34. Sanoah, En-Gannim, Thapuah, Enam, 35th Jarmuth, Adullam , Socho, Aseka, 36. Saaraim, Adithaim, Gedera, Gederothaim. These are fourteen cities and their villages. 37. Zenan, Hadasa, Migdal-Gad, 38. Dilean, Mizpe, Jakthiel, 39. Lachis, Bazekath, Eglon, 40. Chabon, Lahmam, Cithlis, 41. Gederoth, Beth-dagon, Naema, Makeda. These are sixteen cities and their villages. 42. Libna, Ether, Asan, 43. Jephthah, Asna, Nezib, 44. Kegila, Achsib, Marias. These are nine cities and their villages. 45. Ekron with her daughters and villages. 46. From Ekron even unto the sea, all that is near unto Ashdod, and their villages; 47. Ashdod with her daughters and her villages, Gaza with her daughters and her villages, unto the waters of Egypt. And the great sea is the border thereof. 48. And in the mountains was Samir, and Jattir, and Socho, 49. Danna, Kiriath-Sanna, this is Debir, 50. Anah, Esthemo, Anim, 51. Gosen, Holon, Gilo. That's eleven towns and their villages. 52. Arab, Duma, Esean, 53. Janum, Beth-Thapuah, Apheka, 54. Humta, Kiriath-Arba, that is Hebron, Zior. That is nine towns and their villages. 55. Maon, Carmel, Siph, Juta, 56. Jezreel, Jakdeam, Sanoah, 57. Kam, Gibeah, Thimnah. These are ten cities and their villages. 58. Halhul, Beth-Zur, Gedor, 59. Maarath, Beth-anoth, Elthekon. These are six cities and their villages. 60. Kiriath-baal, which is Kiriath-jearim, Harabba; two cities and their villages. 61. And in the wilderness was Beth-arabah, Middin, Sechachah, 62. Nibsan and the Salt City and Engeddi. These are six cities and their villages. 63. And the Jebusites dwelt at Jerusalem, and the children of Judah could not drive them out. So the Jebusites dwelt with the children of Judah at Jerusalem unto this day. (Joshua) Chapter 16 Border towns of the children of Ephraim. 1. And the lot fell to the children of Joseph from Jordan toward Jericho unto the waters of Jericho, from the going upward, and the wilderness that goeth up from Jericho through mount Bethel; 2. And come out of Bethel unto Lus, and pass through the border of Archi-artharoth; 3. And he went down toward the west to the border of Japhleti, unto the border of Bethhoron the lower, and unto Gaser: and the end thereof was by the sea. 4. This is the inheritance of the sons of Joseph, of Manasseh, and of Ephraim. 5. The border of the children of Ephraim among their families, their inheritance from the going upward, was Atharoth-adar unto upper Beth-horon; 6. And go out toward the evening at Michmethath, which is toward the north: there she turneth about toward the going up of the city of Thaenath-silo, and goeth through there from the going up toward Janoha; 7. And come down from Janoha unto Atharoth and Naaratha, and touch Jericho, and go out by Jordan. 8. From Tapuah it goeth toward the west to Nahalkanah; and the end thereof is by the sea. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Ephraim among their families. 9. And all the border cities, and the villages thereof, of the children of Ephraim, were gathered together for the inheritance of the children of Manasseh. 10. And they drove not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gaser. So the Canaanites abode under Ephraim unto this day, and were made interestable. (Joshua) Chapter 17 Of the inheritance of the other half of the tribe of Manasseh. 1. And the lot fell upon the tribe of Manasseh, because he was Joseph's first son: and the lot fell upon Machir the first son of Manasseh, the father of Gilead, because he was a man of war: therefore Gilead and Bashan were given unto him. 2. And to the rest of the sons of Manasseh, and to their families, even to the sons of Abiezer, and to the sons of Helek, and to the sons of Azriel, and to the sons of Shechem, and to the sons of Hepher, and to the sons of Shemida. These are the sons of Manasseh the son of Joseph, men of their families. 3. But Zelaphehad the son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh, had no sons, but daughters: and their names are these: Mahela, Noa, Hagla, Milcah, Thirzah. 4. And they came before Eleazar the priest, and before Joshua the son of Nun, and before the princes, and said: The LORD commanded Moses that he should give us an inheritance among our brethren. And they gave them an inheritance among their father's brethren, according to the commandment of the LORD. 5. And there fell upon Manasseh ten cords out of the land of Gilead, and out of Bashan, which is beyond Jordan. 6. For the daughters of Manasseh took inheritance among his sons, and the land of Gilead was given unto the other sons of Manasseh. 7. And the border of Manasseh was from Asher unto Michmethath, which is before Shechem, and is on the right hand of Enthapuah. 8. For the land of Tapuah was Manasseh: and the border of Manasseh is unto the children of Ephraim. 9. And afterward it shall come down to Nahal-chanah toward the south, unto the cities of the brook, which are Ephraim's, among the cities of Manasseh: but from the north the border of Manasseh shall be by the brook, and shall end at the sea, 10. To Ephraim southward, and to Manasseh northward; and the sea shall be the border thereof: and it shall come upon Asher northward, and upon Issachar eastward. 11. And Manasseh had among Issachar and Asher Bethshean and her daughters, and Jeblaam and her daughters, and those of Dor and her daughters, and those of En-dor and her daughters, and those of Taanach and her daughters, and those of Megiddo, and her daughters and the third part of Napheth. 12. And the children of Manasseh could not take those cities: but the Canaanites began to dwell in the same land. 13. And when the children of Israel became mighty, they made the Canaanites to pay interest, and did not drive them out. 14. And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying: Why hast thou given me but one lot, and one cord of inheritance? For I am a great people, as the LORD hath blessed me. 15. And Joshua said unto them: Because thou art a great people, go up into the forest, and cut down there the land of the Perizzites and the giants: for the mountains of Ephraim are too narrow for thee. 16. And the children of Joseph said, We shall not get the mountains: for there are chariots of iron among all the Canaanites that dwell in the valley of the land, with whom is Bethshean, and her daughters, and Jezreel in the valley. 17. And Joshua said unto the house of Joseph, and to Ephraim, and to Manasseh, Thou art a great people; and because thou art so great, thou needest not have a lot, 18. But the mountain shall be thine, where the forest is: cut it down, and it shall be the end of thy lot, when thou hast driven out the Canaanites, which have chariots of iron, and are mighty. (Joshua) Chapter 18 Border towns of the tribe of Benjamin. 1. And all the congregation of the children of Israel gathered themselves together unto Shiloh, and set up there the tabernacle of the congregation. And the land was subdued unto them. 2. And there were yet seven tribes of the children of Israel, to whom they had not distributed their inheritance. 3. And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, How long are ye so foolish, that ye go not to possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you? 4. Get you three men out of every tribe, and I will send them, and they shall arise, and go through the land, and describe it according to their inheritance, and come unto me. 5. Divide the land into seven parts. Judah shall abide in his border from the south: and the house of Joseph shall abide in his border from the north. 6. And ye shall describe the land of the seven parts, and bring them hither unto me, and I will cast lots for you before the LORD our God. 7. For the Levites have no portion among you; but the priesthood of the LORD is their inheritance. And Gad, and Reuben, and the half tribe of Manasseh, have taken their inheritance beyond Jordan eastward, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave them. 8. And the men arose, and went. And Joshua commanded them, as they went to describe the land, saying, Go, walk through the land, and describe it, and come again unto me, that I may cast lots for you here before the LORD in Shiloh. 9. So the men went and passed through the land, and described it by letter after the cities into seven parts: and they came to Joshua to the camp at Shiloh. 10. And Joshua cast lots for them at Shiloh before the LORD, and divided the land there among the children of Israel, every man his portion. 11. And the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin fell according to their families, and the border of their lot went out between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph. 12. And the border of it was in the north corner from Jordan, and went up to the side of Jericho on the north side, and came into the mountains on the west side, and went out by the wilderness of Bethaven; 13. And go from thence unto Lus by the side of Lus toward the south, which is Bethel, and come down to Atharoth-adar by the mountain that lieth from the south by the lower Bethhoron. 14. And afterward it inclined itself, and turned the corner of the evening southward, from the mountain that lieth before Bethhoron southward, and ended at Kiriathbaal, which is Kiriathjearim, the city of the children of Judah; which is the corner westward. 15. And the south corner is from Kiriathjearim, and goeth out toward the evening, and cometh forth unto the fountain of Nephthoah; 16. And go down to the end of the mountain that lieth before the valley of the son of Hinnom, which is in the valley of Raphaim northward: and go down through the valley of Hinnom by the side of the Jebusites southward, and come down to the well of Rogel; 17. And he goeth forth from the north, and cometh out to En-shemesh, and cometh out to the heaps that are toward Adumim, and cometh down to the stone of Bohen the son of Reuben; 18. And go ye aside to the midnight region, and come down to the midnight region; 19. And go to the side of Bethhagla, which is toward the north: and the end thereof shall be at the tongue of the salt sea toward the north, at the place of Jordan toward the south. This is the south border. 20. But the corner toward the east shall be the end of Jordan. This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin within their borders round about among their families. 21. And the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin, among their families are these: Jericho, Beth-hagla, Emek-reziz, 22. Beth-arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel. 23. Avim, Hapara, Ophra, 24. Kaphar-Amonai, Aphni, Gaba. These are twelve cities and their villages. 25. Gibeon, Rama, Beeroth, 26. Mizpe, Kaphira, Moza, 27. Rekem, Jerpeel, Thareala, 28. Zelah, Eleph, and the Jebusites; that is, Jerusalem, Gibeath, Kiriath: fourteen cities and their villages. This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin in their families. (Joshua) Chapter 19 Of the remaining six tribes and Joshua's inheritance. 1. Afterward fell the other lot of the tribe of the children of Simeon after their families: and their inheritance was among the inheritance of the children of Judah. 2. And Beer-sheba, and Sheba, and Molada, were their inheritance, 3. Hazar-Sual, Bala, Azem, 4. El-Tholad, Bethul, Horma, 5. Ziklag, Beth-Markaboth, Hazar, Sussa, 6. Beth-lebaoth, Saruhen. These are thirteen cities and their villages. 7. Ain, Rimon, Ether, Asan. These are four cities and their villages. 8. And all the villages that are round about these cities, unto Baalath-beer-ramath southward. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Simeon in their families. 9. For the inheritance of the children of Simeon is under the cord of the children of Judah. Because the inheritance of the children of Judah was too great for them, therefore the children of Simeon asked under their inheritance. 10. And the third lot fell upon the children of Zebulun after their families: and the border of their inheritance was unto the sand; 11. And go up to the west to Mareala, and come upon Dabaseth, and come upon the brook that floweth before Jakneam; 12. And he turned from Sarid toward the rising of the sun unto the border of Kisloththabor: and he came out to Dabrath, and went up to Japhia. 13. And from thence she goeth toward the going up by Gitta-hepher, and Ithah, and Kazin, and cometh out to Rimon-mithoar and Nea; 14. And he turned about from north to Nathon, and ended in the valley of Jephthah-el, 15. Katath, Nahalal, Simron, Jedeala, and Bethlehem: these are twelve cities and their villages. 16. This is the inheritance of the children of Zebulun in their families; these are their cities and their villages. 17. And the fourth lot fell upon the children of Issachar according to their families. 18. And their border was Jezreel, and Cheshulloth, and Sunem, 19. Hapharaim, Sion, Anaharath, 20. Rabith, Kiseon, Abez, 21. remeth, en-gannim, en-hada, beth-pazez; 22. And they come upon Tabor, and Sahazima, and Bethshemesh; and their end is at Jordan. Sixteen cities and their villages. 23. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Issachar in their families, in their cities, and in their villages. 24. And the fifth lot fell to the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families. 25. And their border was Helkath, Hali, Beten, Achsaph. 26. Alamelech, Amead, Miseal; and abutteth Carmel by the sea, and Sihor-libnath; 27. And he turned toward the rising of the sun to Beth-dagon, and came upon Zebulun, and upon the valley of Jephthah-el, upon the north of Beth-emek, and upon Negiel, and came out to Kabul on the left hand, 28. And Ebron, and Rehob, and Hammon, and Cana, unto the great Zidon; 29. And he turned toward Ramah unto the strong city of Zor; and he turned toward Hossa, and ended at the sea by the line toward Achsib, 30. Uma, Aphek, Rehob. Twenty-two cities and their villages. 31. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Asher in their families, cities, and villages. 32. And the sixth lot fell to the children of Naphtali in their families. 33. And their borders were from Heleph, Elon, through Zaenannim, Adami-Nekeb, Jabneel, unto Lakum, and endeth at Jordan; 34. And he turned to the evening to Ashnoththabor, and came out from thence to Hukok: and he met Zebulun at south, and Asher at evening, and Judah at Jordan at sunrising; 35. And he hath strong cities; Zidim, Zer, Hamath, Rakath, Cinnereth, 36. Adama, Rama, Hazor, 37. Kedes, Edrei, En-Hazor, 38. Jereon, Migdal-El, Harem, Beth-Anath, Beth-Sames. Nineteen cities and their villages. 39. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Naphtali in their families, cities, and villages. 40. And the seventh lot fell upon the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families. 41. And the border of their inheritance was Zareah, Esthaol, Irsames, 42. Saelabin, Ajalon, Jethla, 43. Elon, Thimnatha, Ekron, 44. Eltheke, Gibethon, Baalath, 45. Yehud, Bne-Barak, Gath-Rimon, 46. Me-Jarkon, Rakon with the boundaries against Japho. 47. And the border of the children of Dan terminated at the same. And the children of Dan went up, and fought against Leshem, and prevailed, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and took them, and dwelt therein: and they called them Dan after their father's name. 48. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan in their families, cities, and villages. 49. And when they had divided the land, and the coasts thereof, the children of Israel gave Joshua the son of Nun an inheritance among them. 50. And they gave him, according to the commandment of the LORD, the city which he required, which is Thimnathzerah in mount Ephraim. And he built the city, and dwelt therein. 51. These are the inheritances which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief of the fathers of the families, distributed by lot unto the children of Israel in Shiloh before the LORD, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation; and they finished the distribution of the land. (Joshua) Chapter 20 Free Cities Ordinance. 1. And the LORD spake unto Joshua, saying: 2. Say unto the children of Israel, Pray ye among you free cities, of which I spake unto you by Moses, 3. Thither may a manslayer flee, who smiteth a soul unawares and unknowingly, that they may be free among you from the avenger of blood. 4. And he that fleeth into the city shall stand without the gate of the city, and shall declare his cause before the elders of the city: and they shall receive him into the city, and give him place to dwell with them. 5. And if the avenger of blood pursue after him, they shall not deliver the slayer into his hand, because he smote his neighbour unawares, and was no enemy to him before. 6. And he shall dwell in the city, until he stand before the congregation in judgment, until the death of the high priest, which shall be at that time. Then shall the slayer return to his city, and to his house, to the city whence he fled. 7. And they sanctified Kedesh in Galilee, in mount Naphtali; and Shechem, in mount Ephraim; and Kiriath-arbah, which is Hebron, in mount Judah. 8. And on the other side Jordan, where Jericho is, toward the going up, they gave Bezer in the wilderness on the plain, of the tribe of Reuben; and Ramoth in Gilead, of the tribe of Gad; and Golan in Bashan, of the tribe of Manasseh. 9. These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the strangers that sojourn among them, that whosoever smiteth a soul unawares should flee thither, that he die not by the avenger of blood, until he stand before the congregation. (Joshua) Chapter 21 Providing for the Levites. 1. Then came the chief fathers of the Levites unto Eleazar the priest, and unto Joshua the son of Nun, and unto the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel; 2. And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying: The LORD commanded by Moses that they should give us cities to dwell in, and suburbs thereof for our cattle. 3. And the children of Israel gave unto the Levites of their inheritance, according to the commandment of the LORD, these cities and their suburbs. 4. And the lot fell upon the family of the Kohathites, and thirteen cities were given by lot unto the children of Aaron the priest out of the Levites: of the tribe of Judah, and of the tribe of Simeon, and of the tribe of Benjamin. 5. And unto the rest of the sons of Kohath, of the same family, were ten cities given by lot, of the tribe of Ephraim, and of the tribe of Dan, and of the half tribe of Manasseh. 6. And to the sons of Gershon, of the same family, were given by lot thirteen cities: of the tribe of Issachar, and of the tribe of Asher, and of the tribe of Naphtali, and of the half tribe of Manasseh, in Bashan. 7. And unto the children of Merari, of their seed, were twelve cities: of the tribe of Reuben, and of the tribe of Gad, and of the tribe of Zebulun. 8. So the children of Israel gave by lot unto the Levites these cities and their suburbs, as the LORD commanded by Moses. 9. Of the tribe of the children of Judah, and of the tribe of the children of Simeon, they gave these cities, which they called by their names, 10. The children of Aaron, of the family of the Kohathites, of the children of Levi: for the first lot was theirs. 11. And they gave them Kiriath-arbah, which was Enak's father's, which is Hebron, in mount Judah, and the suburbs thereof round about. 12. And the field of the city, and the villages thereof, gave they unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh for his inheritance. 13. So they gave unto the children of Aaron the priest the free city of the slain, Hebron and her suburbs, Libnah and her suburbs, 14. Jathir and her suburbs, Esthemoa and her suburbs, 15. Holon and its suburbs, Debir and its suburbs, 16. Ain and her suburbs, Jutah and her suburbs, Bethshemesh and her suburbs: nine cities of these two tribes. 17. And of the tribe of Benjamin they gave four cities, Gibeon and her suburbs, Geba and her suburbs, 18. Anathoth and her suburbs, Almon and her suburbs, 19. All the cities of the sons of Aaron the priest were thirteen with their suburbs. 20. And to the families of the rest of the sons of Kohath, the Levites, were given by lot four cities of the tribe of Ephraim. 21. And they gave them the free city of the slayers, Shechem and her suburbs in mount Ephraim, Gezer and her suburbs, 22. Kibzaim and its suburbs, Beth-horon and its suburbs. 23. Of the tribe of Dan, four cities; Eltheke and her suburbs, Gibthon and her suburbs, 24. ajalon and her suburbs, gath-rimon and her suburbs. 25. Of the half tribe of Manasseh, two cities; Taenah and her suburbs, Gath-ramon and her suburbs, 26. And all the cities of the other children of the tribe of Kohath were ten with their suburbs. 27. And unto the sons of Gershon, of the families of the Levites, out of the half tribe of Manasseh were given two cities, the city of refuge for the slain, Golan in Bashan, and the suburbs thereof, Beesthrah, and the suburbs thereof. 28. Of the tribe of Issachar, four cities; Kision and her suburbs, Dabrath and her suburbs, 29. Yarmuth and its suburbs, En-Gannim and its suburbs. 30. Of the tribe of Asher, four cities; Miseal and her suburbs, Abdon and her suburbs, 31. helkath and its suburbs, rehob and its suburbs. 32. Of the tribe of Naphtali, three cities: the free city of Kedesh for the slayers of Galilee, and the suburbs thereof; Hammoth-dor, and the suburbs thereof; Karrten, and the suburbs thereof, 33. And all the cities of the tribe of the Gershonites were thirteen with their suburbs. 34. And unto the families of the sons of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun were given four cities; Jakneam and her suburbs, and Carthah and her suburbs, 35. dimna and its suburbs, nahalal and its suburbs. 36. And of the tribe of Reuben four cities; Bezer and her suburbs, Jahzah and her suburbs, 37. Kedemoth and her suburbs, Mephaath and her suburbs. 38: Of the tribe of Gad four cities: the free city for the slayers, Ramoth in Gilead, and the suburbs thereof, 39. Mahanaim and her suburbs, Heshbon and her suburbs, Jaeser and her suburbs, 40. And all the cities of the children of Merari, which were of their families, of the Levites, according to their lot, were twelve. 41. And all the cities of the Levites, which were of the inheritance of the children of Israel, were forty and eight with their suburbs. 42. And every one of these cities had her suburbs round about her, one as well as another. 43. So the LORD gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers, and they possessed it, and dwelt therein. 44. And the LORD gave them rest from all around, as he sware unto their fathers: and none of their enemies stood against them, but all their enemies delivered he into their hand. 45. And there was no lack of all the good things which the LORD had spoken unto the house of Israel. All things came to pass. (Joshua) Chapter 22 The third and a half tribes, in returning home... an altar. 1. Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. 2. And said unto them: Ye have kept all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you. 3. Ye have not forsaken your brethren a long time unto this day, but have kept the commandment of the LORD your God. 4. Because therefore the LORD your God hath given rest unto your brethren; as he spake unto them, turn ye now, and go unto your tents unto the land of your inheritance, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the other side Jordan. 5. Now therefore diligently observe to do according to the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. 6. So Joshua blessed them, and let them go; and they went unto their tents. 7. To the half tribe of Manasseh Moses gave in Bashan; and to the other half Joshua gave among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And he sent them away to their tents, and blessed them, 8. And he said unto them: Ye are come home again with great riches unto your tents, with much cattle, and silver, and gold, and brass, and iron, and raiment: divide therefore the spoil of your enemies among your brethren. 9. So the children of Reuben, and the children of Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, returned, and went from the children of Israel out of Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan, to go into the land of Gilead, unto the land of their inheritance, which they desired by the commandment of the LORD through Moses. 10. And when they were come to the heaps that are by Jordan, which are in the land of Canaan, the same Reubenites, and Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, built there by Jordan a great and beautiful altar. 11. And the children of Israel heard say, Behold, the children of Reuben, and the children of Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, have built an altar over against the land of Canaan, by the heaps of Jordan on this side the children of Israel, 12. And they gathered themselves together with all the congregation of Shiloh, to go up against them with an army. 13. And they sent unto them into the land of Gilead Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, 14. And with him ten chief princes of the houses of their fathers, out of every tribe of Israel one. 15. And when they were come unto them into the land of Gilead, they spake unto them, saying: 16. Therefore let all the congregation of the LORD say unto you, How sin ye against the God of Israel, that ye turn away this day from the LORD, to build you an altar, to depart from the LORD? 17. We are not satisfied with the iniquity of Peor, from which we are not cleansed unto this day, and a plague is come upon the congregation of the LORD, 18. And ye are turned away from the LORD this day, and have turned away from the LORD this day, that he may be angry with all the congregation of Israel this day or to morrow? 19. If the land of your inheritance seem unto you to be unclean, come over unto the land which the LORD hath, where the tabernacle of the LORD is, and worship among us: and be not ye turned aside from the LORD, and from us, to build you an altar beside the altar of the LORD our God. 20. Did not Achan the son of Zerah sin against the exile, and wrath come upon all the congregation of Israel, and he perished not alone for his iniquity? 21. And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh answered and said unto the heads and princes of Israel: 22. The strong God, the LORD, the strong God, the LORD, knoweth, and Israel knoweth also, that if we fall away, or sin against the LORD, he will not help us this day. 23. And if we have built the altar, to turn away from the LORD, to offer burnt offerings, or meat offerings, or peace offerings, upon it unto the LORD, he shall require it. 24. And if we have not done it rather for the care of the thing, and said: To day or to morrow your children may say unto our children, What is the LORD God of Israel to you? 25. The LORD hath set Jordan for a border between us and you children of Reuben and Gad: ye have no part in the LORD. So your children shall put away our children from the fear of the LORD. 26. Therefore said we: Let us build us an altar, not for sacrifice, nor for burnt offering, 27. But that he may be a witness between us and you and our seed, that we may minister unto the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our peace offerings, and with our peace offerings; and that your children may not say unto our children to day, or to morrow: Ye have no part in the LORD. 28. But if they should say thus unto us, or unto our seed to day, or to morrow, n they might say, Behold the likeness of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers made, not for sacrifice, nor for burnt offering, but for a witness between us and you. 29. Far be it from us, that we should turn away from the LORD, and build this day an altar for a burnt offering, and for a meat offering, and for sacrifices beside the altar of the LORD our God, which is before his tabernacle. 30. And when Phinehas the priest, and the princes of the congregation, the rulers of Israel, which were with him, heard these words which the children of Reuben and Gad and Manasseh spake, they were well pleased. 31. And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben, and Gad, and Manasseh, To day we know that the LORD is among us, that ye have not sinned against the LORD in this deed. Now ye have delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of the LORD. 32. Then Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and the princes of the land of Gilead, of the children of Reuben and Gad, returned into the land of Canaan unto the children of Israel, and told them. 33. And it pleased the children of Israel well, and they praised the God of the children of Israel, and said no more that they would go up against them with an army to destroy the land, where the children of Reuben and Gad dwelt within. 34. And the children of Reuben and Gad called the altar, that it might be a witness between us, and that the LORD was GOD. (Joshua) Chapter 23 Joshua holds a Diet to admonish the people. 1. And it came to pass after a long time, when the LORD had given Israel rest from all their enemies round about, that Joshua was old and in a good state of health, 2. And he called all Israel, and their elders, and their chiefs, and their judges, and their officers, and said unto them: I am old and well stricken in years, 3. And ye have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto all these nations before you: for the LORD your God hath himself fought for you. 4. Behold, I have divided unto you by lot the remnant of nations, every tribe his inheritance from Jordan, and all the nations which I have cut off, and by the great sea toward the going down of the sun. 5. And the LORD your God shall cast them out from before you, and drive them out from among you, and ye shall possess their land, as the LORD your God hath spoken unto you. 6. Be of good cheer therefore, that ye keep and do all things which are written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside from it to the right hand, or to the left, 7. That ye come not among these other nations which are with you, neither remembering, nor swearing by the name of their gods, nor serving, nor worshipping them, 8. But cleave unto the LORD your God, as ye have done unto this day. 9. So shall the LORD drive out from before you great and mighty nations: and no man hath withstood you unto this day. 10. One of you shall chase a thousand: for the LORD your God fighteth for you, as he hath spoken unto you. 11. Therefore keep your souls most diligently, that ye may love the LORD your God. 12. But if ye turn, and cleave unto these remnant nations, and marry yourselves unto them, that ye may come among them, and they among you, 13. Know therefore that the LORD your God will no more drive out all these nations from before you, but they shall become a snare and a net unto you, and a scourge in your sides, and a sting in your eyes, until he destroy you from off the good land which the LORD your God hath given you. 14. Behold, I go this day as all the world: and ye shall know with all your heart and with all your soul, that not one word hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God hath spoken unto you: all things are come, and none remaineth. 15. Therefore as all good things have come to you, which the LORD your God hath spoken unto you; so shall the LORD bring upon you all evil things, until he destroy you from off this good land, which the LORD your God hath given you, 16. If ye transgress the covenant of the LORD your God, which he commanded you, and go and serve other gods, and worship them, that the wrath of the LORD be kindled against you, and ye perish quickly from off the good land which he hath given you. (Joshua) Chapter 24 Joshua's last day in the land. His and Eleazar's death. 1. And Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel unto Shechem, and called the elders of Israel, the chiefs, and the judges, and the officers. And when they had stood before GOD, 2. And he said unto all the people, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Your fathers dwelt in time past beyond the waters, Tarah, Abraham's father, and Nahor's father, and served other gods. 3. And I took your father Abraham beyond the river, and caused him to wander throughout all the land of Canaan, and multiplied his seed unto him, and gave him Isaac. 4. And to Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau: and I gave Esau possession of mount Seir. And Jacob and his children went down into Egypt. 5. And I sent Moses and Aaron, and afflicted Egypt, as I did among them. 6. After this I brought you and your fathers out of Egypt. And when ye came to the sea, and the Egyptians pursued after your fathers with chariots and horsemen unto the Red sea, 7. And they cried unto the LORD, and he put darkness between you and the Egyptians, and brought the sea upon them, and covered them. And your eyes have seen what I have done in Egypt. And ye dwelt in the wilderness a long time. 8. And I brought you into the land of the Amorites, which dwelt beyond Jordan: and when they fought against you, I delivered them into your hand to possess their land, and destroyed them from before you. 9. And Balak the son of Zipor king of Moab arose, and fought against Israel, and sent and called Balaam the son of Beor to curse you. 10. But I would not hear him. And he blessed you; and I delivered you out of his hands. 11. And when ye were passed over Jordan, and came to Jericho, the men of Jericho fought against you, the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Girgothites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites: but I delivered them into your hand. 12. And he sent hornets before you; and they drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites, not by thy sword, nor by thy bow. 13. And I have given you a land wherein ye have not labored, and cities which ye have not built, that ye may dwell therein, and eat of vineyards and oliveyards which ye have not planted. 14. Fear ye the LORD therefore, and serve him faithfully and righteously: forsake the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the river, and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15. But if it please you not to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; the LORD, whom your fathers served on the other side of the river, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell. But I and my house will serve the LORD. 16. And the people answered and said, Far be it from us to forsake the LORD, and to serve other gods. 17. For the LORD our God brought us and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, and did great signs in our sight, and kept us in all the way which we went, and among all the nations through which we passed; 18. And hath cast out from before us all the Amorite nations that dwelt in the land. Therefore will we also serve the LORD: for he is our God. 19. And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he is a holy God, a jealous God, which will not spare your transgression and your sin. 20. But if ye forsake the LORD, and serve a strange god, he will turn and afflict you, and kill you, after he hath done you good. 21. And the people said unto Joshua, Not so; but we will serve the LORD. 22. And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves, that ye have chosen the LORD to serve you. And they said: Yes. 23. Put away therefore the strange gods that are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel. 24. And the people said unto Joshua, We will serve the LORD our God, and obey his voice. 25. So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and set before them statutes and judgments in Shechem. 26. And Joshua wrote all these things in the book of the law of God, and took a great stone, and set it up there under an oak which was by the sanctuary of the LORD. 27. And he said unto all the people, Behold, this stone shall be a witness between us: for it hath heard all the words of the LORD, which he spake unto us; and it shall be a witness against you, that ye deny not your God. 28. So Joshua left the people, every man to his inheritance. 29. And it came to pass after these things, that Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died when he was an hundred and ten years old. 30. And they buried him in the border of his inheritance, in Timnath Serah, which is in mount Ephraim, from the north side of mount Gaash. 31. And Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and the elders that lived long after Joshua, who knew all the works of the LORD which he had done for Israel. 32. And the bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel had brought out of Egypt, buried they in Shechem, in the piece of ground which Jacob bought of the children of Hemor the father of Shechem for an hundred pence; and it became the inheritance of the children of Joseph. 33. Eleazar also the son of Aaron died; and they buried him in Gibeah of Phinehas his son, which was given him in mount Ephraim. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Judges (Judges) ^ Chapter 1 The tribe of Judah wages war in Joshua's stead. 1. After the death of Joshua the children of Israel asked the LORD, saying: Who shall make war among us against the Canaanites? 2. And the LORD said, Judah shall lead him. Behold, I have given the land into his hand. 3. And Judah said unto Simeon his brother, Go up with me in my lot, and let us fight against the Canaanites, and I will go with thee again in thy lot. So Simeon went with him. 4. And it came to pass, when Judah was gone up, that the LORD delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand, and smote Beshek ten thousand men. 5. And they found Adoni-bezek in Bezek, and fought against him, and smote the Canaanites and the Perizzites. 6. But Adoni-besek fled, and they pursued after him: and when they had laid hold on him, they cut off his thumbs on his hands and on his feet. 7. And Adoni-bezek said, Seventy kings with the thumbs of their hands and feet hewed up under my table. As I have done, so hath God recompensed me: And they brought him to Jerusalem, and there he died. 8. But the children of Judah fought against Jerusalem, and took her, and smote her with the edge of the sword, and burned the city. 9. And the children of Judah came down to fight against the Canaanites, which dwelt in the mountains, and in the south country, and in the valley. 10. And Judah went against the Canaanites that dwelt in Hebron, (for Hebron was called Kiriatharba in the days of old,) and smote Shesai, and Ahiman, and Talmai. 11. And he departed thence against the inhabitants of Debir. And the name of Debir was Kiriath-sepher in the days of old. 12. And Caleb said, Whosoever shall smite Kiriath-shepher, and win him, to him will I give my daughter Achsah to wife. 13. And Athniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's youngest brother, took her. And he gave him his daughter Achsah to wife. 14. And it came to pass, when she was come in, that she was told to demand a field of her father: and she fell down from off her ass. And Caleb said unto her, What is the matter with thee? 15. And she said, Give me a blessing: for thou hast given me a south land, give me also a watery one. So he gave her a watery one above and below. 16. And the sons of the Kenite, Moses' brother in law, went up out of the city of palm trees with the children of Judah into the wilderness of Judah, which is south of the city of Arad: and they went and dwelt among the people. 17. And Judah went with Simeon his brother, and smote the Canaanites that were in Zephath, and utterly destroyed them; and they called the name of the city Horma. 18. And Judah took Gaza with her possession, and Asklon with her possession, and Ekron with her possession. 19. And the LORD was with Judah, to take the mountains: for he could not take the inhabitants in the bottom, because they had chariots of iron. 20. And they gave Hebron unto Caleb, as Moses had said: and he drove out of it the three sons of Enak. 21. But the children of Benjamin drove not out the Jebusites that dwelt at Jerusalem: but the Jebusites dwelt with the children of Benjamin at Jerusalem unto this day. 22. Likewise also the children of Joseph went up to Bethel: and the LORD was with them. 23. And the house of Joseph spied out Bethel, which before was called Lus. 24. And the watchmen saw a man going out of the city, and said unto him, Show us where we enter into the city, and we will do mercy unto thee. 25. And when he shewed them the way of the city, they smote the city with the edge of the sword; but the man and all his family they let go. 26. And the same man went into the land of the Hittites, and built a city, and called it Luz; which is called so to this day. 27. And Manasseh drove not out Bethshean with her daughters, nor Taenah with her daughters, nor the inhabitants of Dor with their daughters, nor the inhabitants of Jebleam with their daughters, nor the inhabitants of Megiddo with their daughters: and the Canaanites began to dwell in the same land. 28. And it came to pass, when Israel was strong, that he made the Canaanites to pay interest, and did not drive them out. 29. Neither did Ephraim drive out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gaser; but the Canaanites dwelt among them in Gaser. 30. Neither did Zebulun drive out the inhabitants of Kitron and Nahalal, but the Canaanites dwelt among them, and they were tine. 31. And Asher drove not out the inhabitants of Acre, nor the inhabitants of Zidon, nor of Ahelab, nor of Achsib, nor of Helba, nor of Aphik, nor of Rehob, 32. But the Asserites dwelt among the Canaanites that dwelt in the land: for they drove them not out. 33. Naphtali drove not out the inhabitants of Bethshemesh, nor of Bethanath, but dwelt among the Canaanites that dwelt in the land. But they that dwelt at Bethshemesh, and at Bethanath, became interestable. 34. And the Amorites pressed the children of Dan into the mountains, and suffered them not to come down into the valley. 35. And the Amorites began to dwell in mount Heres, in Aijalon, and in Saalbim. But the hand of the house of Joseph was heavy upon them, and they became ashamed. 36. And the border of the Amorites was from the going up to Akrabbim, and from the rock, and from the high place. (Judges) Chapter 2 Of the children of Israel inertia, apostasy, punishment, and redemption. 1. And the angel of the LORD came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said: I brought you up out of Egypt, and brought you into the land which I sware unto your fathers, saying, I would not loose my covenant with you for ever, 2. That ye should not make a covenant with the inhabitants of this land, and break their altars. But ye have not hearkened unto my voice. Why have ye done this? 3. Then said I also, I will not drive them out from before you, that they may become a snare unto you, and their gods a net. 4. And when the angel of the LORD had spoken these words unto all the children of Israel, the people lifted up their voice, and wept. 5. And they called the name of the place Bochim, and sacrificed there unto the LORD. 6. For when Joshua had sent the people away, and the children of Israel were gone every man to his inheritance to possess the land, 7. The people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and the elders that lived long after Joshua, which had seen all the great works of the LORD, which he had done unto Israel. 8. Now Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, when he was an hundred and ten years old, was dead, 9. And they buried him within the borders of his inheritance in Timnath-heres, in mount Ephraim, from the north side of mount Gaash. 10. And when all that were alive at that time were gathered unto their fathers, there arose after them another generation, which knew not the LORD, nor the works that he had done for Israel. 11. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim. 12. And they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which had brought them up out of the land of Egypt, and went after other gods, and after the gods of the nations that dwelt round about them, and worshipped them, and provoked the LORD to anger. 13. For they forsook the LORD, and served Baal and Ashtaroth. 14. And the wrath of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and delivered them into the hand of them that spoiled them, to rob them, and sold them into the hand of their enemies round about. And they could no more withstand their enemies, 15. But whithersoever they went out, the hand of the LORD was against them to do them harm, as the LORD had said and sworn unto them: and they were hard pressed. 16. When then the LORD had raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of the spoilers, 17. Neither did they obey the judges, but went after other gods, and worshipped them, and soon departed from the way wherein their fathers had gone to obey the commandments of the LORD, and did not as they did. 18. And when the LORD had raised up judges unto them, the LORD was with the judge, and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies, as long as the judge lived. For the LORD was grieved because of their lamentations over them that oppressed and pressed them. 19. And when the judge died, they turned, and corrupted themselves more than their fathers, to follow other gods, to serve them, and to worship them: they fell not from their nobleness, nor from their stiffneckedness. 20. Therefore the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, saying, Because this people have transgressed my covenant, which I commanded their fathers, and have not hearkened unto my voice, 21. Neither will I henceforth drive out the heathen, whom Joshua left when he died, 22. That I may try Israel in them, whether they abide in the way of the LORD, to walk in it, as their fathers abode, or not. 23. So the LORD left these heathen, that he did not soon drive them out, whom he had not delivered into Joshua's hand. (Judges) Chapter 3 Athniel, Ehud, Samgar and their deeds. 1. These are the heathen whom the LORD left to try Israel, who knew not the wars of Canaan, 2. And that the families of the children of Israel might know, and learn to fight, who knew nothing of it before: 3. The five lords of the Philistines, and all the Canaanites, and the Zidonians, and the Hivites, that dwelt in mount Lebanon, from mount Baalhermon even unto Hemath. 4. The same remained to try Israel in them, that it might be known whether they obeyed the commandments of the LORD, which he commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses. 5. And the children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, 6. And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods; 7. And they did evil in the sight of the LORD, and forgot the LORD their God, and served Baalim and the groves. 8. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Cushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Cushanrishathaim eight years. 9. And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD; and the LORD raised up unto them a Saviour to deliver them, Athniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's youngest brother. 10. And the Spirit of the LORD was in him, and he became a judge in Israel, and went out to battle. And the LORD delivered into his hand Cushan-rishathaim king of Syria, that his hand might be strong upon him. 11. And the land was quiet forty years. And Athniel the son of Kenaz died. 12. But the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD. Then the LORD strengthened Eglon king of Moab against Israel, because they did evil in the sight of the LORD. 13. And he gathered unto him the children of Ammon, and the Amalekites. And he went and smote Israel, and took the city of palm trees. 14. And the children of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years. 15. And they cried unto the LORD; and the LORD raised up unto them a saviour, Ehud the son of Gera, the son of Jemini, which was left And when the children of Israel by the same gift sent Eglon the king of Moab, 16. And Ehud made him a two-edged sword a cubit long, and girded it under his garment upon his right thigh; 17. And he brought the present unto Eglon the king of Moab. And Eglon was a very fat man. 18. And when he had delivered up the present, he left the people that bare the present, 19. And he returned from the idols at Gilgal, and said, I have a secret thing to tell thee, O king. And he commanded to hold their peace, and all that were about him departed from him. 20. And Ehud came in unto him. And he sat in the summerhouse, which was for him alone. And Ehud said: I have GOD's word to thee. And he arose from his seat. 21. And Ehud put forth his left hand, and took the sword from his right thigh, and thrust it into his belly, 22. That the hilt also went in by the edge, and the fat closed up the hilt, (for he drew not the sword out of his belly,) that the dung went out of him. 23. But Ehud went out of the hall, and shut the door behind him, and shut it. 24: And when he was gone out, his servants came in, and saw that the door of the summer chamber was shut, and said: He may have gone to the chair in the chamber of the summer house. 25. And when they had tarried till they were ashamed, (for no man opened the door of the bower,) they took the key, and opened it: and, behold, their lord lay dead upon the earth. 26. And Ehud escaped while they were departing, and passed over before the idols, and escaped unto Seirath. 27. And when he was come in, he blew a trumpet in mount Ephraim. And the children of Israel went with him out of the mount, and he before them; 28. And said unto them: Pursue me: for the LORD hath delivered into your hand Moab your enemies. And they pursued after him, and took the ford of Jordan, which goeth to Moab, and suffered no man to pass over. 29. And Moab at that time smote ten thousand men, all the best men, and all the mighty men of valour; and not one escaped. 30. So Moab was subdued at that time under the hand of the children of Israel. And the land was quiet fourscore years. 31. And after that was Samgar the son of Anath, which smote six hundred Philistines with a bullock, and delivered Israel also. (Judges) Chapter 4 Deborah, Barak and Jael's heroism. 1. But the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD, because Ehud was dead. 2. And the LORD sold them into the hand of Jabin king of the Canaanites, which sat in Hazor: and his captain of the host was Zisserah, and he dwelt in Harosheth of the Gentiles. 3. And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD: for he had nine hundred chariots of iron, and compelled the children of Israel by force twenty years. 4. In those days there was a judge in Israel, Deborah the prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth. 5. And she dwelt under the palm tree of Deborah, between Ramah and Bethel, in mount Ephraim. And the children of Israel came up unto her in judgment. 6. And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam, of Kedesh-naphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the LORD God of Israel commanded thee? Go up to mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of Zebulun? 7. For I will bring Sisserah the captain of the host of Jabin unto thee by the river Kishon, with his chariots, and with his multitude, and will deliver him into thy hand. 8. And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, I will not go. 9. And she said: I will go with thee, but the prize shall not be thine in this journey which thou doest, but the LORD will deliver Sissera into the hand of a woman. So Deborah arose, and went with Barak to Kedesh. 10. And Barak called Zebulun and Naphtali to Kedesh, and went on foot with ten thousand men. And Deborah also went with him. 11. And Heber the Kenite went out from among the Kenites, from among the sons of Hobab, Moses' brother in law, and pitched his tent by the oaks of Zaanaim beside Kedesh. 12. And it was told Zisserah that Barak the son of Abinoam was gone up to mount Tabor. 13. And he called all his chariots together, nine hundred chariots of iron, and all the people that were with him, from Harosheth of the Gentiles unto the river Kishon, 14. And Deborah said unto Barak, Arise, this is the day when the LORD hath delivered Zisserah into thine hand: for the LORD will go forth before thee. So Barak came down from mount Tabor, and the ten thousand men after him. 15. And the LORD affrighted Sisserah, and all his chariots, and all his host, at the edge of Barak's sword: and Sisserah leaped from his chariot, and fled on foot. 16. And Barak pursued after the chariots and after the host unto Harosheth of the nations. And all the host of Sisera fell before the edge of the sword, and not one remained. 17. And Sisserah fled on foot to the tabernacle of Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite. For king Jabin of Hazor and the house of Heber the Kenite were at peace with one another. 18. And Jael went out to meet Sisserah, and said unto him, Depart, my lord, depart unto me, and fear not. And he went in unto her into her tent: and she covered him with a mantle. 19. And he said unto her, Give me a little water to drink, for I thirst. So she put on a milk-pot, and gave him to drink, and covered him. 20. And he said unto her, Enter in at the door of the tabernacle, and if any man come and ask whether any man be here, say, No man. 21. And Jael Heber's wife took a nail of the tabernacle, and a hammer in her hand, and went in unto him softly, and smote the nail through his sleep, and he sank to the earth. And he fell asleep, and fainted, and died. 22. And it came to pass, as Barak pursued after Sissera, that Jael went out to meet him, and said unto him, Come hither, and I will shew thee the man whom thou seekest. And when he was come in unto her, Sissera lay dead, and the nail was in his sleep. 23. So God restrained Jabin king of the Canaanites in those days before the children of Israel. 24. And the hand of the children of Israel continued, and waxed strong against Jabin king of the Canaanites, until they cut him off. Ch. 5, v. 1. Then Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam sang at that time, saying: (Judges) Chapter 5 Deborah and Barak's song of triumph. 2. Praise ye the LORD, that Israel is become free again, and the people have been willing. 3. Give ear, ye kings, and take heed, ye princes. I will sing unto the LORD, I will play unto the LORD God of Israel. 4. O LORD, when thou camest forth from Seir, and wentest forth out of the field of Edom, the earth trembled, and the heavens dripped, and the clouds were filled with water. 5. The mountains were poured out before the LORD, Sinai before the LORD God of Israel. 6. In the days of Samgar the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, were the ways passed away; and they that walked in the paths walked in crooked ways. 7. There was a lack of farmers in Israel, until I Deborah arose, until I arose a mother in Israel. 8. A new thing hath God chosen; he hath denied the gates. There was not a shield nor a spear among forty thousand in Israel. 9. My heart is well pleased with the rulers of Israel, which are of their own free will among the people. Praise the LORD, 10. Ye that ride upon fair asses, that sit in judgment, that sing, that walk in the way. 11. When the shooters cried out between the creators, saying, Of the righteousness of the LORD, of the righteousness of his peasants in Israel: then the LORD'S people came down to the gates. 12. Run, run, Deborah, run, run, and sing a little song. Arise, Barak, and catch thy captors, O son of Abinoam. 13. Then the forsaken ruled over the mighty men: the LORD hath ruled by me over the mighty. 14. Out of Ephraim was their root against Amalek, and after thee, Benjamin, among thy people. From Machir came regents, and from Zebulun were regents by the pen. 15. And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah. And Issachar was as Barak in the bottom, sent with his footmen. Reuben held up from him, and separated himself from us. 16. Why dost thou tarry among the hurdles, hearing the bleating of the flock, and thinkest thyself great, and separatest thyself from us? 17. And Gilead dwelt beyond Jordan. And why dwelt Dan among the ships? Asher sat at the ford of the sea, and abode in his torn spots. 18. And Zebulun's people ventured their souls unto death; Naphtali also, in the height of the field. 19. And the kings came and fought: and the kings of the -canaanites fought at Taanah, by the waters of Megiddo; but they brought no profit. 20. They fought against them out of heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sissera. 21. The brook Kison rolled them, the brook Kedumim, the brook Kison. Tread, my soul, upon the strong! 22. Then the horses' feet rattled at the trembling of their mighty riders. 23. Curse the city of Meros, said the angel of the LORD; curse her inhabitants, because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD to the mighty. 24. Blessed is Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite among the women: blessed is she in the tabernacle among the women. 25. She gave milk when he asked for water, and butter she offered in a glorious dish. 26. And she took hold of the nail with her hand, and of the smith's hammer with her right hand; and smote Sissera through his head, and bruised and pierced his sleep. 27. He bowed himself at her feet, and fell down, and lay down: he bowed himself, and fell down at her feet: as he bowed himself, so he lay corrupt. 28. And the mother of Sissera looked out at the window, and cried through the lattice, Why doth his chariot pine, that he cometh not? How do the wheels of his chariots remain so backward? 29. The wisest of his wives answered, because she kept repeating her words of lamentation: 30. Shall they not then find and divide the spoil, every man a mead or two for a spoil, and Sissera multicolored embroidered garments for a spoil, embroidered multicolored garments about the neck for a spoil? 31. So perish, O LORD, all thine enemies. But they that love him shall be as the sun riseth in his strength. And the land was quiet forty years. (Judges) Chapter 6 Gideon appointed judge. 1. And when the children of Israel had done evil in the sight of the LORD, the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Midianites seven years. 2. And it came to pass, when the hand of Midian was strong upon Israel, that the children of Israel made for themselves clefts in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds. 3. And it came to pass, when Israel sowed any seed, that the Midianites and the Amalekites and the children of the east came up against them; 4. And they encamped against them, and destroyed the increase of the land, even unto Gaza: and they left no remnant of food in Israel, neither sheep, nor ox, nor ass. 5. For they came up with their cattle and their tents, as a great multitude of locusts, that neither they nor their camels could be numbered: and they fell into the land, and destroyed it. 6. So Israel was very small before the Midianites. Then cried the children of Israel unto the LORD. 7. And they cried unto the LORD because of the Midianites, 8. And the LORD sent unto them a prophet, which said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought you up out of Egypt, and brought you out of the house of bondage; 9. And I have delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of all the hand that oppressed you, and have thrust them out from before you, and have given you their land. 10. And said unto you: I am the LORD your God; not the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell. And ye have not hearkened unto my voice: 11. And an angel of the LORD came and sat under an oak tree in Ophrah, which was Joash the father of the Ezrites: and Gideon his son threshed wheat at the winepress, that it might flee before the Midianites. 12. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD be with thee, thou valiant man. 13. And Gideon said unto him, My lord, is the LORD with us? why then have all these things befallen us? And where are all his wonders, which our fathers told us, saying: The LORD brought us up out of Egypt? But now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hand of Midian. 14. And the LORD turned unto him, and said, Go in this thy strength, and deliver Israel out of the hand of the Midianites. Behold, I have sent thee. 15. And he said unto him, My lord, wherewith shall I redeem Israel? Behold, my friendship is the least in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house. 16. And the LORD said unto him, I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man. 17. And he said unto him, If I have found grace in thy sight, make me a sign that thou art he which speaketh unto me. 18. Depart not, till I come unto thee, and bring my meat offering, which I leave before thee. And he said: I will tarry until thou come again; 19. And Gideon came and slew a kid of the goats, and took an ephah of unleavened flour, and put the flesh in a basket, and put the broth in a pot, and brought it out unto him under the oak, and stood by. 20. And the angel of God said unto him, Take the flesh, and the unleavened meat, and leave it upon the rock that is here, and pour out the broth. And he did so. 21. And the angel of the LORD put forth the rod that was in his hand, and touched the flesh and the unleavened flour with the point thereof. And the fire came out of the rock, and consumed the flesh and the unleavened flour. And the angel of the LORD departed out of his sight. 22. And when Gideon saw that it was an angel of the LORD, he said, O LORD, LORD, have I thus seen an angel of the LORD face to face? 23. But the LORD said unto him, Peace be unto thee. Fear not; thou shalt not die. 24. And Gideon built there an altar unto the LORD, and called it, The LORD of peace. And it standeth unto this day in Ophrah, the father of the Ezrites. 25. And the same night the LORD said unto him, Take the bullock of thy father's oxen, and another bullock of seven years old, and break down the altar of Baal which is thy father's, and cut down the grove that is by it; 26. And thou shalt build an altar unto the LORD thy God upon the top of this rock, and prepare it: and take the other bullock, and offer a burnt offering with the wood of the grove which thou hast hewn down. 27. And Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as the LORD had said unto him. But he was afraid to do it by day in the presence of his father's house, and of the men of the city; and he did it by night. 28. And when the men of the city arose early in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was broken down, and the grove thereof cut down; and the other bullock, a burnt offering upon the altar that was built. 29. And one said unto another: Who hath done this thing? And when they sought and enquired, it was said, Gideon the son of Joash hath done this thing. 30. And the men of the city said unto Joash, Deliver up thy son. He must die, because he has broken the altar of Baal and cut down the grove. 31. And Joash said unto all them that sat with him: Will ye contend for Baal? Will ye help him? He that wroth for him shall die this morning. If he be God, he shall be justified in himself, and his altar shall be broken. 32. And from that day they called his name Jerubbaal, saying, Baal reproacheth himself, that his altar is broken down. 33. And when all the Midianites and the Amalekites and the children of the east were gathered together, they passed through, and pitched in the valley of Jezreel, 34. And the Spirit of the LORD drew Gideon, and he blew with the trumpets, and called Abieser to follow him. 35. And he sent tidings throughout all Manasseh, and called him, that they also should follow him. And he sent word also unto Asher, and Zebulun, and Naphtali; which came up to meet him. 36. And Gideon said unto GOD, Wilt thou deliver Israel by my hand, as thou hast spoken? 37. And I will put a fleece of wool upon the threshingfloor. And the dew shall be upon the fleece alone, and shall drop upon all the earth; and I will know that thou wilt redeem Israel by mine hand, as thou hast spoken. 38. And it came to pass thus. And when he arose early on the morrow, he pressed the dew out of the skin, and filled a vial full of water. 39. And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be kindled against me, that I may speak again. I will only try again with the skin. Let it alone be dry upon the skin, and dew upon all the earth. 40. And God did so that night, that there was dryness upon the skin only, and dew upon all the earth. (Judges) Chapter 7 Gideon receives victory against the Midianites. 1. And Jerubbaal, that is, Gideon, arose early, and all the people that were with him, and pitched by the well of Harod, to have the host of Midian northward, behind the hills of the valley. 2. And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to deliver Midian into their hand: for Israel will boast against me, saying, My hand hath redeemed me. 3. Now therefore let them cry out in the ears of the people, saying, Let him that is foolish and desponding return, and come up quickly from mount Gilead. And the people returned twenty and two thousand, and ten thousand only remained. 4. And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many. Bring them down unto the waters, and there will I try them thee: and of him that I shall say unto thee to go with thee, he shall go with thee: but of him that I shall say, he shall not go with thee, he shall not go. 5. And he brought the people down unto the waters. And the LORD said unto Gideon, Whosoever shall lick the water with his tongue, as a dog licketh it, set him apart; as well as he that shall fall upon his knees to drink. 6. And the number of them that had licked out of the hand into the mouth was three hundred men: and all the rest of the people had drunk kneeling. 7. And the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that licked will I deliver you, and will give the Midianites into your hand: but let all the rest of the people go into their place. 8. And they took with them food for the people, and their trumpets. And the rest of the children of Israel let him go every man to his tent: and he strengthened himself with three hundred men. And the host of Midian lay down before him in the valley. 9. And the LORD said unto him that night, Arise, and go down to the camp: for I have delivered it into thy hand. 10. But if thou fear to go down, let Pura thy son go down with thee unto the camp, 11. And thou shalt hear what they say. And afterward thou shalt go down with the power unto the camp. And Gideon went down with Purah his lad unto the place of the shield-keepers that were in the camp. 12. And the Midianites, and the Amalekites, and all the children of the east, lay down in the midst like a multitude of locusts; and their camels were not to be numbered before the multitude, as the sand upon the seashore. 13. And when Gideon was come, behold, he dreamt a dream one to another, saying, Behold, I dreamed a dream, and it seemed unto me that a barley loaf was rolled unto the host of Midian: and when it came to the tents, it smote them, and overthrew them, and overturned them, to bring down the top of the tent. 14. And the other answered: This is nothing but the sword of Gideon the son of Joash the Israelite. God has given the Midianites into his hands with the whole army. 15. And when Gideon heard the dream, and the interpretation thereof, he worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the LORD hath delivered the host of Midian into your hand. 16. And he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and put a trumpet in every man's hand, and pitchers of wine, and torches within. 17. And said unto them, Look unto me, and do likewise: and, behold, when I come into the place of the host, as I do, so do ye. 18. When I blow the trumpet, and all that are with me, then ye also shall blow the trumpet round about all the host, and say: Here, Lord, and Gideon! 19. So Gideon and an hundred men came with him unto the place of the host, unto the first watchmen that were appointed, and stirred them up, and blew with trumpets, and brake the pitchers in their hands. 20. So all the three companies blew with trumpets, and brake the pitchers. And they held the torches in their left hand, and the trumpets in their right hand, and blew, and cried: Here the sword of the LORD and Gideon! 21. And every man stood in his place round about the host. And all the host ran, and cried out, and fled. 22. And when the three hundred men blew with the trumpets, the LORD caused every man's sword to be against every man's sword throughout all the host. And the army fled unto Beth-sitta Zereratha, unto the border of the breadth of Meholah at Tabath. 23. And the men of Israel of Naphtali, and of Asher, and of all Manasseh, cried out, and pursued after the Midianites. 24. And Gideon sent word throughout all mount Ephraim, saying, Come down to meet the Midianites, and run the waters over against them unto Bethbarah and Jordan. And all they that were of Ephraim cried out, and ran the waters over against them unto Bethbarah and Jordan. 25. And they took two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb, and slew Oreb in the rock of Oreb, and Zeeb in the winepress of Zeeb: and they chased the Midianites, and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb unto Gideon over Jordan. (Judges) Chapter 8 The Midianites who remain are defeated, and Sebab and Zalmuna are captured. 1. And the men of Ephraim said unto him, Why hast thou done this unto us, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to battle against the Midianites? And they quarreled with him fiercely. 2. And he said unto them: What have I now done that is like unto your deed? Is not one vine of Ephraim better than all the vintage of Abieser? 3. God has given the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb, into your hands. How could I have done what you have done? When he spoke these things, their anger departed from him. 4. And when Gideon was come to Jordan, he passed over with the three hundred men that were with him: and they were weary, and pursued. 5. And he said unto the men of Sukhoth, Give some loaves unto the people that are under me: for they are weary, because I go after the kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunah. 6. And the princes of Shukhtoth said, Are the fists of Zebah and Zalmunah already in thine hand, that we should give bread unto thy host? 7. And Gideon said, Well, if the LORD deliver Zebah and Zalmunna into mine hand, I will bruise your flesh with thorns out of the wilderness, and with hedges. 8. And he went up from thence unto Pnuel, and spake so unto them. And the men of Pnuel answered him, as did the men of Sukhoth. 9. And he said also unto the men of Pnuel, If I come again in peace, I will break down this tower. 10. And Zebah and Zalmunna were at Karkor, and their host with them, about five and ten thousand, all that remained of all the host of the east. For an hundred and twenty thousand were fallen that could draw the sword. 11. And Gideon went up by the way of the tabernacle, toward the east, to Nobah and to Jagbeha, and smote the army: for the army was sure. 12. And Zebah and Zalmunna fled: but he pursued after them, and caught the two kings of Midian, Zebah and Zalmunna, and destroyed all the host. 13. And Gideon the son of Joash returned from the battle before the sun was up, 14. And he caught a lad of the people of Shukhtoth, and asked him; and he wrote unto him the princes of Shukhtoth, and their elders, seventy and seven men. 15. And he came to the men of Shukhtoth, and said, Behold, here is Zebah and Zalmunna, of whom ye mocked me, saying, Is Zebah's fist and Zalmunna's fist already in thine hands, that we should give bread unto thy men that are weary? 16. And he took the elders of the city and domes out of the wilderness and hedges, and made the people of Sukhoth to feel it. 17. And he brake down the tower of Pnuel, and slew the men of the city. 18. And he said unto Zebah and Zalmunna, What were the men whom ye slew in Tabor? And they said, They were as thou art, and every one of them fair, as the children of a king. 19. And he said, They were my brethren, my mother's sons. As the LORD liveth, if ye had let them live, I would not have slain you. 20. And he said unto Jether his firstborn son, Arise, slay them. But the lad drew not his sword: for he was afraid, because he was yet a lad. 21. And Zebah and Zalmunna said, Arise, thou, and make thyself at us: for after that the man is, so is his strength. So Gideon arose, and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and took the braces that were on their camels' necks. 22. And some of Israel said unto Gideon, Be thou lord over us, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son; because thou hast delivered us out of the hand of Midian. 23. But Gideon said unto them: I will not be lord over you, neither shall my son be lord over you: but the LORD shall be lord over you. 24. And Gideon said unto them: One thing I desire of you, that every man give me the headbands which he hath stolen: for because they were Ishmaelites, they had headbands of gold. 25. They said: These we will give. And they spread out a garment, and every man cast thereon the headbands which he had stolen. 26. And the golden headbands which he required were of the weight of a thousand seven hundred shekels of gold, beside the clasps, and the chains, and the scarlet garments, which the kings of Midian wear, and beside the collars of their camels. 27. And Gideon made an ephod of it, and put it in his city at Ophrah. And all Israel took offense at it there; and it was an offence unto Gideon, and to his house. 28. So the Midianites were humbled before the children of Israel, and lifted up their heads no more. And the land was quiet forty years, as long as Gideon lived. 29. And Jerubbaal the son of Joash went and dwelt in his house. 30. And Gideon had seventy sons, which came out of his loins: for he had many wives. 31. And his concubine, which he had in Shechem, bare him also a son; and he called his name Abimelech. 32. And Gideon the son of Joash died in a good old age, and was buried in the sepulchre of Joash his father in Ophrah, the father of the Ezrites. 33. And it came to pass, when Gideon was dead, that the children of Israel turned again, and whored after Baalim, and made them Baal-Berith their god. 34. And the children of Israel remembered not the LORD their God, which had delivered them out of the hand of all their enemies round about. 35. And did not shew mercy unto the house of Jerubbaal-gideon, as he had shewed all goodness unto Israel. (Judges) Chapter 9 The fratricide Abimelech perishes. 1. And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem unto his mother's brethren, and spake unto them, and unto all the family of his mother's father's house, saying: 2. Speak ye, I pray thee, in the ears of all the men of Shechem, saying, Which is better for you, that seventy men, all the sons of Jerubbaal, should be lords over you, or that one man should be lord over you? Remember also that I am your bones and your flesh. 3. And his mother's brethren spake all these words of him in the ears of all the men of safety: and their heart inclined toward Abimelech, because they remembered: He is our brother. 4. And they gave him seventy pieces of silver of the house of Baal-Berith. And Abimelech did dine therewith loose, frivolous men that followed him. 5. And he came into his father's house to Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, seventy men, upon one stone. And Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal remained: for he was hid. 6. And all the men of Shechem, and all the house of Millo, gathered themselves together, and went and made Abimelech king by the high oak which is in Shechem. 7. And it was told Jotham, that he went and stood upon the top of mount Grisim, and lifted up his voice, and cried, and said unto them: Hear me, ye men of Shechem, that God may hear you also. 8. And the trees went to anoint a king over them, and said unto the olive tree, Be our king. 9. But the olive tree answered and said unto them, Shall I leave my fatness, which both gods and men glorify in me, and go to hover over the trees? 10. And the trees said unto the fig tree, Come thou, and be our king. 11. But the fig tree said unto them, Shall I leave my sweetness and my good fruit, and go to hover above the trees? 12. And the trees said unto the vine, Come thou, and be our king. 13. But the vine said unto them, Shall I leave my wine, which maketh glad gods and men, and go to hover over the trees? 14. And all the trees said unto the thornbush, Come thou, and be our king. 15. And the thornbush said unto the trees, If it be true that ye anoint me king over you, come and trust under my shadow: but if not, let fire come out of the thornbush, and consume the cedars of Lebanon. 16. Now therefore have ye done right and truly in making Abimelech king? And ye have done well to Jerubbaal, and to his house, and have done unto him as he hath done unto you, 17. That my father fought for your sakes, and cast away his soul, to deliver you out of the hand of Midian? 18. And ye rise up this day against my father's house, and slay his children, even seventy men, upon one stone; and make you a king, Abimelech the son of his handmaid, over the men of Shechem, because he is your brother. 19. Now therefore, if ye have dealt justly and uprightly with Jerubbaal, and with his house this day, be glad in Abimelech, and let him be glad in you. 20. And if not, then let fire go out from Abimelech, and consume the men of Sure, and the house of Millo; and let fire go out from the men of Sure, and from the house of Millo, and consume Abimelech. 21. And Jotham fled, and escaped, and went to Bear, and dwelt there before Abimelech his brother. 22. And it came to pass, when Abimelech had reigned over Israel three years, 23. God sent an evil will between Abimelech and the men of Shechem. For the men of Shechem promised Abimelech; 24. And they reproached the seventy sons of Jerubbaal for their iniquity, and laid the blood of them upon Abimelech their brother, which slew them, and upon the men of safety, which strengthened his hand to slay his brethren. 25. And the men of Sichern set an ambush in the tops of the mountains, and spoiled all that walked by them in the way. And it was told Abimelech. 26. And Gaal the son of Ebed came, and his brethren, and entered into Shechem. And the men of Shechem relied upon him; 27. And they went out into the field, and gathered their vineyards, and pressed wine; and made a dance, and went into the house of their god, and did eat and drink, and cursed Abimelech. 28. And Gaal the son of Ebed said, Who is Abimelech? and what is Shechem, that we should serve him? Is not he the son of Jerubbaal, and hath set Zebul his servant over the men of Hemor, the father of Shechem? Why should we serve him? 29. Would to God that the people were under my hand, that I might drive out Abimelech! And it was said unto Abimelech, Increase thine army, and go forth. 30. For Zebul the ruler of the city, when he heard the words of Gaal the son of Ebed, was wroth in his anger. 31. And he sent word unto Abimelech privily, saying, Behold, Gaal the son of Ebed and his brethren are come to Shechem, and have made the city abominable unto thee. 32. Arise therefore by night, thou, and thy people that are with thee, and set an ambush upon them in the field. 33. And in the morning, when the sun riseth, arise early, and overtake the city. And when he and the people that are with him shall come out unto thee, do unto him as thine hand findeth. 34. And Abimelech arose by night, and all the people that were with him, and stood in safety with four companies. 35. And Gaal the son of Ebed went out, and stood at the door of the gate of the city. And Abimelech arose out of the ambush, he and the people that were with him. 36. And when Gaal saw the people, he said unto Zebul, Behold, a people cometh down from the height of the mountains. And Zebul said unto him, Thou seest the shadows of the mountains for people. 37. And Gaal spake yet more, and said, Behold, a people cometh down out of the midst of the land, and a multitude cometh by the way of the magic region. 38. And Zebul said unto him, Where is now here thy mouth, which said, Who is Abimelech, that we should serve him? Is not this the people whom thou hast despised? Go forth therefore, and fight with him. 39. And Gaal went out before the men of Shechem, and fought with Abimelech. 40. But Abimelech chased him, and he fled before him: and there fell many slain unto the door of the gate. 41. And Abimelech abode in Arumah. And Zebul drove out Gaal and his brethren, that they should not dwell in the covert. 42. And in the morning the people went out into the field. And Abimelech was told, 43. And he took the people, and divided them into three companies, and set an ambush upon them in the field. And when he saw that the people were gone out of the city, he rose up against them, and smote them. 44. And Abimelech, and the company that was with him, attacked them, and stood at the gate of the city: and two of the company attacked all that were in the field, and smote them. 45. And Abimelech fought against the city all that day, and took it, and slew the people that were therein, and brake down the city, and sowed salt in it. 46. And when all the men of the tower of Shechem heard it, they went into the fortress of the house of Berith the god. 47. And when Abimelech heard that all the men of the tower of Sichern were gathered together, 48. And he went up into mount Zalmon with all his people that were with him, and took an axe in his hand, and cut down a branch from the trees, and took it up, and laid it upon his shoulder, and said unto all the people that were with him, As ye have seen me do, so do ye hasted, as I have done. 49. And all the people cut off every man a bough, and went after Abimelech, and laid them by the fortress, and set it on fire: and all the men of the tower of Shechem died, about a thousand men and women. 50. And Abimelech went to Thebez, and besieged it, and took it. 51. And there was a strong tower in the midst of the city, upon which all the men and women, and all the inhabitants of the city, fled; and they shut them up behind them, and went up into the roof of the tower. 52. And Abimelech came to the tower, and fought against it, and drew nigh unto the door of the tower, and burned it with fire. 53. And a woman cast a piece of a millstone upon Abimelech's head, and brake his skull. 54. And Abimelech made haste, and called unto the lad that bare his weapons, and said unto him, Put forth thy sword, and slay me, lest it be said of me, A woman slew him. And his lad thrust him through, and he died. 55. And when the children of Israel that were with him saw that Abimelech was dead, they went every man to his place. 56. So God paid Abimelech for the evil that he had done to his father, in that he slew his seventy brethren. 57. Likewise all the evil of the men of Shechem God forgave on their heads, and the curse of Jotham the son of Jerubbaal came upon them. (Judges) Chapter 10 Israel is pushed by the Philistines because of idolatry. 1. And it came to pass after Abimelech, that Tola, a man of Issachar, the son of Puah the son of Dodo, went to help Israel. And he dwelt at Samir in mount Ephraim. 2. And he judged Israel twenty and three years; and he died, and was buried in Samir. 3. And after him arose Jair the Gileadite, and judged Israel twenty and two years. 4. And he had thirty sons riding upon thirty asses: and he had thirty cities, which are called the villages of Jair unto this day, which are in Gilead. 5. And Jair died, and was buried in Kamon. 6. But the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim, and Ashtaroth, and the gods of Syria, and the gods of Zidon, and the gods of Moab, and the gods of the children of Ammon, and the gods of the Philistines; and forsook the LORD, and served him not. 7. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the children of Ammon. 8. And they trode down and smote the children of Israel from that year even eighteen years, even all the children of Israel that were beyond Jordan, in the land of the Amorites, which is in Gilead. 9. And the children of Ammon passed over Jordan, and fought against Judah, and against Benjamin, and against the house of Ephraim; so that Israel was greatly distressed. 10. And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, saying: We have sinned against thee; for we have forsaken our God, and served Baalim. 11. And the LORD said unto the children of Israel, Have not the Egyptians, and the Amorites, and the children of Amman, and the Philistines, compelled you? 12. The Zidonians, and the Amalekites, and the Maanites: and I delivered you out of their hand, when ye cried unto me? 13. Yet have ye forsaken me, and served other gods: therefore will I not help you any more. 14. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen: let them help you in the time of your affliction. 15. And the children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do thou with us as thou wilt; only save us at this time. 16. And they put away strange gods, and served the LORD. And it grieved him that Israel was so afflicted. 17. And the children of Ammon cried, and pitched in Gilead: but the children of Israel gathered themselves together, and pitched in Mizpeh. 18. And the people of the princes of Gilead said one to another, Whosoever shall begin to fight against the children of Ammon, he shall be chief over all the inhabitants of Gilead. (Judges) Chapter 11 Jephthah's victory and vows. 1. Jephthah, a Gileadite, was a valiant man, but a whoremonger. But Gilead had begotten Jephthah. 2. And when the wife of Gilead bare him children, and the children of his wife grew up, they cast out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father's house; for thou art the son of another woman. 3. And he fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of Tob. And there were gathered unto him a few men, and they went out with him. 4. And for some time afterward the children of Amman fought with Israel. 5. And it came to pass, when the children of Ammon had fought with Israel, that the elders of Gilead went to fetch Jephthah out of the land of Tob. 6. And they said unto him, Come and be our captain, that we may fight against the children of Ammon. 7. And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead: Are not ye that hate me, and have cast me out of my father's house? And now come ye unto me, because ye are in tribulation? 8. And the elders of Gilead said unto Jephthah, Now therefore we return unto thee, that thou mayest go with us, and fight with us against the children of Amman, and be our head over all the inhabitants of Gilead. 9. And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead: If ye bid me fight again against the children of Ammon, and the LORD give them before me, shall I be your head? 10. And the elders of Gilead said unto Jephthah, Let the LORD be a hearer between us, where we do not as thou hast said. 11. So Jephthah went with the elders of Gilead: and the people made him head over them, and ruler over them. And Jephthah spake all these things before the LORD in Mizpah. 12. And Jephthah sent messengers unto the king of the children of Amman, saying, What hast thou to do with me, that thou art come to me to fight against my land? 13. And the king of the children of Ammon answered the messengers of Jephthah: Because Israel took my land, when they came out of Egypt, from Arnon even unto Jabbok, and unto Jordan. Now therefore restore it unto me in peace. 14. And Jephthah sent more messengers unto the king of the children of Amman. 15. And they said unto him, Thus saith Jephthah: Israel hath taken no land, neither from Moab, nor from the children of Ammon. 16. For when they came out of Egypt, Israel went through the wilderness unto the Red sea, and came to Kadesh; 17. And he sent messengers unto the king of Edom, saying, Let me pass through thy land. But the king of Edom hearkened not unto them. And they sent to the king of Moab, and he would not hear them. So Israel dwelt in Kadesh. 18: And he walked in the wilderness, and compassed the land of Edom, and the land of Moab, and came from the rising of the sun unto the land of Moab, and pitched on the other side of Arnon; and came not within the border of Moab: for Arnon is the border of Moab. 19. And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of Heshbon the Amorite, saying, Let us pass through thy land unto my place. 20. But Sihon trusted not Israel to pass through his border, but gathered all his people together, and encamped at Jahaz, and fought with Israel. 21. And the LORD God of Israel delivered Sihon and all his people into the hand of Israel, and they smote them. So Israel took all the land of the Amorites, which dwelt in the same country, 22. And they took all the border of the Amorites from Arnon even unto Jabbok, and from the wilderness even unto Jordan. 23. Now therefore the LORD God of Israel hath driven out the Amorites from before his people Israel; and wilt thou take them? 24. Thou shalt take them whom thy god Kamos hath driven out, and make us to take all whom the LORD our God hath driven out before us. 25. Thinkest thou that thou art better in judgment than Balak the son of Zipor king of Moab? hath he ever justified himself, or fought against Israel? 26. Though Israel dwelt three hundred years in Heshbon, and in her daughters, and in Aroer, and in her daughters, and in all the cities that are by the Arnan? Why do ye not save them in that day? 27. I have sinned nothing against thee; and thou doest evil against me, to fight against me. Let the LORD judge this day between Israel and the children of Ammon. 28. But the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah, which he sent unto him. 29. And the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and passed through Gilead, and through Manasseh, and through Mizpeh, which is in Gilead, and from Mizpeh, which is in Gilead, upon the children of Amman. 30. And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, saying, Deliver thou the children of Amman into mine hand, 31. That which cometh out of my house, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, shall be the LORD'S, and I will offer it for a burnt offering. 32. So Jephthah came upon the children of Amman to fight against them. And the LORD delivered them into his hand. 33. And he smote them from Aroer even unto Minnith, twenty cities, and unto the plain of the vineyards, a very great slaughter. And the children of Ammon were humbled before the children of Israel: 34. And when Jephthah was come to Mizpeh to his house, behold, his daughter came out to meet him with timbrels and dances: and she was an only child, and he had neither son nor daughter. 35. And when he saw her, he rent his clothes, and said, Alas, my daughter, how thou bendest me, and grievest me! For I have opened my mouth against the LORD, and cannot gainsay it. 36. And she said, My father, if thou hast opened thy mouth against the LORD, do unto me as it proceeded out of thy mouth, after that the LORD smote thee upon thine enemies the children of Ammon. 37. And she said unto her father, Thou wilt do this unto me, that thou wilt leave me two months, that I may go down from hence into the mountains, and bewail my virginity with my companions. 38. And he said, Go thy way. And let her go two months. And she went with her companions, and wept for her virginity upon the mountains. 39. And after two months she returned unto her father. And he did unto her as he had promised: and she was never guilty of any man. And it became a custom in Israel, 40. And the daughters of Israel shall go yearly to lament the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite four days in the year. (Judges) Chapter 12 Defeat of the Ephraimites. 1. And the men of Ephraim cried, and went northward, and said unto Jephthah, Why art thou gone to battle against the children of Ammon, and hast not called us to go with thee? We will burn your house and you with fire. 2. And Jephthah said unto them: I and my people had a great matter with the children of Ammon; and I cried unto you, but ye helped me not out of their hands. 3. And when I saw that ye would not help me, I put my soul in mine hand, and went against the children of Ammon; and the LORD delivered them into mine hand. Wherefore then come ye up unto me to fight against me? 4. And Jephthah gathered all the men of Gilead, and fought against Ephraim. And the men of Gilead smote Ephraim, because they said, Be ye Gileadites among Ephraim, and Manasseh among the fugitives of Ephraim. 5. And the Gileadites took the fords of Jordan before Ephraim. And when the fugitives of Ephraim said, Let me pass over, the men of Gilead said unto him, Art thou an Ephraite? And when he answered, No, 6. And they said unto him, Shiboleth; and he said, Siboleth; and could not speak it aright. And they took him, and smote him at the fords of Jordan: and in that day there fell of Ephraim forty and two thousand. 7. And Jephthah judged Israel six years. And Jephthah the Gileadite died, and was buried in the cities of Gilead. 8. After whom Israel judged Ebzan of Bethlehem. 9. He had thirty sons, and thirty daughters he put forth, and thirty daughters he took from without his sons: and he judged Israel seven years. 10. And died, and was buried in Bethlehem. 11. After this Elon the Zebulunite judged Israel: and he judged Israel ten years. 12. And he died, and was buried in Aijalon in the land of Zebulun. 13. After this judged Israel Abdon the son of Hillel, a Pireathonite. 14. And he had forty sons, and thirty nephews, riding upon seventy asses: and he judged Israel eight years. 15. And he died, and was buried in Pireathon, in the land of Ephraim, in the mount of the Amalekites. (Judges) Chapter 13 Simson's conception and birth. 1. And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years. 2. Now there was a man in Zareah of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah: and his wife was barren, and bare nothing. 3. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son. 4. Take heed therefore that thou drink not wine, nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing. 5. For thou shalt conceive, and bear a son, and there shall no razor come upon his head. For the child shall be the betrothed of God from his mother's womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines. 6. And the woman came and told her husband, and said, There came a man of God unto me, and his form was as the appearance of an angel of God, almost terrifying, that I asked him not whence, nor whither; neither did he tell me his name. 7. And he said unto me, Behold, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son. Now therefore drink no wine, nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing: for the child shall be the betrothed of God from his mother's womb even unto his death. 8. And Manoah besought the LORD, saying, O LORD, let the man of God come again unto us, whom thou hast sent, that he may teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born. 9. And God heard the voice of Manoah: and the angel of God came again to the woman. And she sat in the field, and Manoah her husband was not with her. 10. And she ran quickly, and told her husband, and said unto him, Behold, the man hath appeared unto me, which came unto me this day. 11. And Manoah arose, and went after his wife: and he came to the man, and said unto him, Art thou the man that talked with the woman? And he said, Yea. 12. And Manoah said, When that which thou hast spoken shall come, what shall be the manner and work of the child? 13. And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Let him beware of all that I have said unto the woman. 14. He shall not eat that cometh of the vine, neither shall he drink wine or strong drink, neither shall he eat any unclean thing: all that I have commanded him shall he keep. 15. And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, Let thee be stayed, and we will prepare thee a kid of the goats. 16. And the angel of the LORD answered Manoah, Though thou keep me here, yet will I not eat of thy meat. But if thou wilt offer a burnt offering unto the LORD, then thou shalt offer it. For Manoah knew not that it was an angel of the LORD. 17. And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, What is thy name? that we may praise thee, when that which thou hast spoken shall come to pass. 18. And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Why askest thou after my name, which is miraculous? 19. And Manoah took a kid of the goats, and a meat offering, and offered it upon a rock unto the LORD. And he made it marvelous. And Manoah and his wife looked on. 20. And when the flame ascended up to heaven from off the altar, the angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar. And when Manoah and his wife saw it, they fell to the earth upon their faces. 21. And the angel of the LORD appeared no more unto Manoah, nor unto his wife. Then Manoah knew that it was an angel of the LORD. 22. And he said unto his wife: We must die of death, that we have seen God. 23. And his wife answered and said unto him, If the LORD had desired to kill us, he would not have taken the burnt offering and the meat offering from our hands, neither would he have told us all these things, nor have let us hear these things, as they are now. 24. And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson. And the lad grew, and the LORD blessed him. 25. And the Spirit of the LORD began to drive him in the camp of Dan, between Tsar and Esthaol. (Judges) Chapter 14 Simson's exploit, wedding and mystery. 1. And Samson went down to Timnath, and saw a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines. 2. And when he was come up, he told his father and his mother, saying: I have seen a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines: now therefore give me the same to wife. 3. And his father and his mother said unto him, Is there not then a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, and among all thy people, that thou goest and takest a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? Then Samson said to his father, "Give me this one, for she is pleasing to my eyes. 4. But his father and his mother knew not that it was of the LORD: for he sought cause of the Philistines. And the Philistines reigned over Israel at that time. 5. So Samson went down with his father and his mother to Timnath. And when they were come to the vineyards of Timnath, behold, a young lion came roaring to meet him. 6. And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and rent him as a kid is rent, and had nothing in his hand. And he told not his father, nor his mother, what he had done. 7. And when he was come down, he spake unto the woman, and she pleased Samson in his eyes. 8. And after some days he returned to take them, and went out of the way to see the carcase of the lion. And, behold, there was a swarm of bees in the carcase of the lion, and honey. 9. And he took it in his hand, and did eat thereof by the way: and he went to his father and to his mother, and gave them to eat also. And he told them not that he had taken the honey of the lion's nest. 10. And when his father was come down to the woman, Samson made a marriage there, as young men do. 11. And when they saw him, they gave him thirty companions to be with him. 12. And Samson said unto them: I will give you a riddle. If ye will tell me, and come to the seven days of the marriage, I will give you thirty shirts, and thirty garments for a feast. 13. But if ye cannot guess, then ye shall give me thirty shirts, and thirty ceremonial garments. And they said unto him, Give up thy riddle, and let us hear. 14. And he said unto them, Food came from the eater, and sweetness from the strong. And they could not guess the riddle in three days. 15. And on the seventh day they said unto Samson's wife: Persuade thy husband to tell us the riddle, or we will burn thee and thy father's house with fire. Did ye bring us hither to make us poor, or not? 16. And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, Thou art angry with me, and lovest me not. Thou hast set a riddle before the children of my people, and hast not told it. And he said unto her, Behold, I have not told my father nor my mother, and should I tell thee? 17. And she wept before him seven days, because they were married. But on the seventh day he told her, because she drove him in. And she told the riddle of her people unto her children. 18. Then said the men of the city unto him the seventh day, before the sun went down: What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than the lion? But he said unto them: If ye had not plowed with my calf, ye would not have met my riddle. 19. And the Spirit of the LORD was upon him, and he went down to Asklon, and smote thirty men of them, and took their raiment, and gave garments of feasting unto them that had guessed the riddle. And he was wroth in his anger, and went up to his father's house. 20. But Samson's wife was given to one of his fellows that belonged to him. (Judges) Chapter 15 Samson does harm to the Philistines by the foxes and the ass's chin. 1. And it came to pass after certain days, about the time of wheat harvest, that Samson went to visit his wife with a kid. And when he thought, I will go into my wife's chamber, her father would not let him in. 2. And said: I thought thou hadst been angry with her, and have given her to thy friend. But she hath a younger sister more fair than she: let her be thine for this. 3. Then said Samson unto them: For once I have a right cause against the Philistines; I will do you harm. 4. And Samson went and caught three hundred foxes, and took fires, and turned every tail to the other, and put a fire between every two tails. 5. And they set them on fire, and let them go among the corn of the Philistines: and they set on fire the almonds, and the standing corn, and the vineyards, and the oliveyards. 6. And the Philistines said, Who hath done this? And they said, Samson the son in law of the Thimnite, because he took his wife from him, and gave her to his friend: And the Philistines went up, and burned her and her father with fire. 7. And Samson said unto them, Though ye have done this already, yet will I take vengeance on you myself, and will cease afterward. 8. And smote them sore, both in the shoulders and in the loins. And he went down, and dwelt in the cleft of the stone at Etam. 9. And the Philistines went up, and besieged Judah, and settled in Lehi. 10. But they of Judah said: Why are ye come up against us? And they answered: We are come up to bind Samson, that we may do unto him as he hath done unto us. 11. And three thousand men of Judah went down to the valley of Etam, and said unto Samson, Knowest thou not that the Philistines reign over us? Why then hast thou done this thing unto us? And he said unto them: As they have done it unto me, so have I done it unto them. 12. And they said unto him, We are come down to bind thee, and to deliver thee into the hand of the Philistines. And Samson said unto them, Swear unto me that ye will not resist me. 13. And they answered him, We will not resist thee, but will bind thee, and deliver thee into their hand, and will not kill thee. And they bound him with two new cords, and brought him up from the rock. 14. And when he was come to Lehi, the Philistines shouted unto him. And the Spirit of the LORD was upon him, and the cords of his arms were as the cords of the fire: and the bands of his hands were melted. 15. And he found a rotten ass's jawbone; and he put forth his hand, and took it, and smote a thousand men therewith. 16. And Samson said, There they lie in heaps: by the jaws of an ass have I smitten a thousand men. 17. And when he had spoken it, he cast out the jaw of his hand, and called the name of the place Ramath-lehi. 18. And when he thirsted greatly, he called upon the LORD, and said, Thou hast given great salvation by the hand of thy servant; but now I must die of thirst, and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised. 19. And God split a molar in the jaw, and water came out. And when he drank, his spirit returned, and was refreshed. Therefore the name of the fountain of the caller, which was in the jaw, is called unto this day. 20. And he judged Israel in the days of the Philistines twenty years. (Judges) Chapter 16 Simson's fall, misery and final revenge. 1. Samson went to Gasa, and there he saw a harlot, and lay with her. 2. And it was told the Gasites, saying, Samson is come in. And they compassed him about, and lay wait for him all night in the gate of the city: and they were silent all night, and said: Wait! And it shall come to pass in the morning, when it is light, that we will slay him. 3. And Samson lay till midnight. And he arose on the north side, and took both the doors of the gate of the city, and the two posts thereof, and lifted them up with the bars thereof, and put them upon his shoulders, and carried them up to the top of the hill that is before Hebron. 4. And afterward he loved a woman by the brook Sorek, whose name was Delilah. 5. And the lords of the Philistines came up, and said unto her, Persuade him, and see wherein he hath great power, and wherewith we prevail against him, to bind him, and to compel him; and we will give thee every one a thousand and an hundred shekels of silver. 6. And Delilah said unto Samson, Tell me, my son, wherein is thy great strength, and wherewith thou mayest be bound to be compelled. 7. And Samson said unto her, If they would bind me with seven ropes of fresh bast, which are not yet withered, I should be weak, and be as another man. 8. And the princes of the Philistines brought up unto her seven ropes of fresh bast, which were not yet withered: and she bound him therewith. 9. And they waited for him with her in the chamber: and she said unto him, The Philistines are upon thee, Samson. And he rent the ropes, as a cord of brass is rent when it toucheth the fire: and he knew not where his strength was. 10. And Delilah said unto Samson, Behold, thou hast deceived me, and lied unto me: now therefore tell me, wherewith can thou be bound? 11. And he said unto her, If they bind me with new cords, lest any work be done, I shall be weak, and like another man. 12. And Delilah took new cords, and bound him therewith, and said, Philistines upon thee, Samson. (And they were kept upon him in the chamber.) - And he rent them from his arms like a thread. 13. And Delilah said unto him, Thou hast yet deceived me, and told me a lie. Tell me, my lord, wherewith can I bind thee? And he said unto her, If thou shalt braid seven locks of my head with a plaited band, and fasten them with a nail. 14. And she said unto him, Philistines upon thee, Samson. And he awoke from his sleep, and drew out his braided locks with nail and braid. 15. And she said unto him, How canst thou say that thou lovest me, when thine heart is not with me? Thrice hast thou deceived me, and hast not told me wherein is thy great strength. 16. And when she had driven him with her words all the days, and afflicted him, his soul was weary unto death. 17. And he told her his whole heart, and said unto her, There never came a razor upon my head: for I am the betrothed of God from my mother's womb. When thou shalt adjure me, let my strength depart from me, and I shall be weak, and like all men. 18. And when Delilah saw that he had revealed all his heart unto her, she sent and called the lords of the Philistines, saying, Come up again; for he hath revealed all his heart unto me. So the lords of the Philistines came up to her and brought the money in their hands. 19. And she left him asleep in her bosom, and called for one that should cut off the seven locks of his head. And she began to compel him. And his strength was gone out of him. 20. And she said unto him, Philistines upon thee, Samson. And when he was awake from his sleep, he said, I will go forth, as I have done many times, I will depart: and he knew not that the LORD was departed from him. 21. And the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with two fetters of brass; and he was mangled in prison. 22. But the hair of his head began to grow again where it was shorn. 23. And when the princes of the Philistines were gathered together to offer a great sacrifice unto Dagon their god, and to rejoice, they said, Our god hath delivered Samson our enemy into our hand. 24. Likewise when the people saw him, they praised their God: for they said: Our God hath delivered into our hand our enemy, which destroyed our land, and slew our many. 25. And when their hearts were in good cheer, they said, Send for Samson, that he may play before us. So they fetched Samson out of prison, and he played before them: and they set him between two pillars. 26. And Samson said unto the lad that led him by the hand, Let me feel the pillars, and let the house stand, that I may lean upon it. 27. And the house was full of men and women. And the princes of the Philistines were all there, and upon the housetop about three thousand, both men and women, watching Samson play. 28. And Samson called upon the LORD, and said, O LORD, remember me, and strengthen me, O GOD, this time, that I may avenge myself on the Philistines for my two eyes. 29. And he took the two middle pillars, upon which the house was set, and upon which it stood, one in his right hand, and the other in his left hand, 30. And he said, My soul dieth with the Philistines: and he bowed it vigorously. And the house fell upon the princes, and upon all the people that were therein: and there were more dead in his death, than in his life. 31. And his brethren came down, and all his father's house, and took him up, and bare him, and buried him in Manoah his father's sepulchre, between Zareah and Esthaol. And he judged Israel twenty years. (Judges) Chapter 17 Micah sets up idolatry. 1. Now there was a man in mount Ephraim, whose name was Micah. 2. And he said unto his mother, The thousand and hundred pieces of silver which thou hast taken unto thee, and hast sworn and said in mine ears, behold, the same money is with me, and I have taken it unto me. And his mother said, Blessed be my son unto the LORD. 3. So he restored unto his mother the thousand and an hundred pieces of silver. And his mother said: I have sanctified the money of mine hand unto the LORD for my son, to make an image and an idol: now therefore I restore it unto thee. 4. But he restored the money unto his mother. And his mother took two hundred shekels of silver, and put them in the goldsmith's hand, and he made her an image and an idol, which was afterward in the house of Micah. 5. And the man Micah had a house of God, and made an ephod and a sanctuary, and filled the hand of one of his sons to be his priest. 6. In those days there was no king in Israel: and every man did that which seemed right unto him. 7. Now there was a young man of Bethlehemjudah of the family of Judah: and he was a Levite, and a stranger there. 8. And he departed out of the city of Bethlehemjudah, to wander whithersoever he might. And when he was come to mount Ephraim, to the house of Micah, to go his way, 9. And Micah said unto him, Whence comest thou? And he answered him, I am a Levite of Bethlehemjudah, and wander whithersoever I may. 10. And Micah said unto him, Abide with me, and thou shalt be my father, and my priest: and I will give thee ten shekels of silver yearly, and thy named garments, and thy food. And the Levite went. 11. And the Levite came to dwell with the man; and he kept the lad as a son. 12. And Micah filled the Levite's hand, and he became his priest: so he was in the house of Micah. 13. And Micah said, Now I know that the LORD will do me good, because I have a Levite for a priest. (Judges) Chapter 18 The Danites win Lais and set up idolatry. 1. In those days there was no king in Israel. And the tribe of Dan sought him an inheritance, where they might dwell: for there was no inheritance fallen to them among the tribes of Israel until that day. 2. And the children of Dan sent out of their families from the ends thereof five valiant men of Czar and Esthaol, to search out the land, and to search it out, and said unto them: Go and explore the land. And they came to mount Ephraim, to the house of Micah, and lodged there overnight. 3. And when they were with the servants of Micah, they knew the voice of the Levite the boy: and they departed thither, and said unto him, Who brought thee hither? What doest thou there, and what hast thou here? 4. And he said unto them, Thus and thus did Micah unto me, and appointed me to be his priest. 5. And they said unto him, Ask of GOD, that we may know whether the way which we take be prosperous. 6. And the priest answered them: Go in peace: your way is right in the sight of the LORD, which ye go. 7. And the five men went and came to Laish, and saw the people that were therein dwelling safely, after the manner of the Zidonians, quietly and securely; and there was none to hurt them in the land, or to lord it over them: and they were far from the Zidonians, and had nothing to do with men. 8. And they came to their brethren to Zareah and Esthaol: and their brethren said unto them: How is it with you? 9. And they said: Up, let us go up to them: for we have seen the land, which is almost good. Make haste therefore, and be not slothful to go, that ye may come and possess the land. 10. When ye come, ye shall come unto a sure people; and the land is far and wide, for God hath given it into your hands, such a place as nothing faileth, all that is in the earth. 11. And there went out from thence of the families of Dan, and of Zareah, and of Esthaol, six hundred men armed with their weapons to battle. 12. And they went up, and pitched in Kiriathjearim of Judah. Wherefore they called the place the camp of Dan unto this day, which is beyond Kiriathjearim. 13. And from thence they went up into mount Ephraim, and came to the house of Micah. 14. And the five men that went out to search the land of Laish answered and said unto their brethren: Know ye also that in these houses there is an ephod, and a sanctuary, and an image, and an idol? Now think ye what ye shall do. 15. And they entered in, and came to the house of the lad the Levite, which was in Micah's house, and greeted him kindly. 16. And the six hundred armed men with their armour, which were of the children of Dan, stood at the gate. 17. And the five men that went out to search the land went up, and came thither: and they took the image, and the ephod, and the sanctuary, and the idol. And the priest stood at the gate by the six hundred armed men with their armour. 18. And when they were come into the house of Micah, and had taken the image, and the ephod, and the sanctuary, and the idol, the priest said unto them: What do ye? 19. And they said unto him, Hold thy peace, and shut thy mouth, and shew thyself to us, that thou mayest be our father and priest. Is it better for thee to be a priest in the house of one man, or in all the tribe and family of Israel? 20. And it pleased the priest well, and he took both the ephod, and the sanctuary, and the image, and went with them among the people. 21. And when they turned and went, they sent before them the little children, and the cattle, and all that they had that was good. 22. And when they were come afar off from Micha's house, the men that were in the houses of Micha's house cried out, and followed after the children of Dan, and called unto the children of Dan. 23. And they turned their faces, and said unto Micah, What is the matter with thee, that thou hast made such a noise? 24. And he answered: Ye have taken my gods, which I made, and the priest, and are gone; and now what have I more? And ye ask yet what I lack? 25. And the children of Dan said unto him, Let not thy voice be heard among us, lest angry men fall upon thee, and thy soul, and the soul of thy house, be troubled. 26. So the children of Dan went their way. And Micah, when he saw that they were too strong for him, turned and came again to his house. 27. And they took that which Micah had made, and the nest that he had, and came unto Laish, unto a quiet, sure people, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and burnt the city with fire. 28. And there was none to deliver them, because they were far from Zidon, and had no business with the people: and they lay in the valley, which is by Beth-rehob. And they built the city, and dwelt therein; 29. And they called them Dan, after the name of Dan their father, which was born of Israel. And the name of the city in old time was Laish. 30. And the children of Dan set up for themselves the image. And Jonathan the son of Gershon the son of Manasseh, and his sons, were nesters among the tribe of Dan until the time that they were carried away captive out of the land. 31. And they set among them the image of Micah, which he had made, as long as the house of God was in Shiloh. (Judges) Chapter 19 Those at Gibeah are committing a shameful and most criminal act. 1. In those days there was no king in Israel. And a Levite man was a stranger by the side of mount Ephraim, and had taken him a concubine to wife of Bethlehemjudah. 2. And when she had walked beside him, she ran from him to her father's house to Bethlehemjudah, and was there four months. 3. And her husband arose, and went after her, and spake kindly unto her, and brought her again unto him: and he had a lad and a pair of asses with him. And she led him into her father's house. And when the damsel's father saw him, he was glad, and received him. 4. And his brother in law, the damsel's father, kept him, that he abode with him three days; eating and drinking, and lodging there by night. 5. And the fourth day they rose up early in the morning, and he arose, and would have gone. And the damsel's father said unto his son in law, Give thy heart first with a morsel of bread, and then ye shall go. 6. And they sat down, and did eat together, and drank. And the damsel's father said unto the man, Stay thou the night, and let thy heart be merry. 7. And when the man arose, and was about to depart, his brother's servant constrained him to tarry there overnight. 8. And in the morning of the fifth day he rose up early, and would go. Then said the damsel's father, Feed thine heart, and let us tarry till the day be done. So the two of them ate together. 9. And the man arose, and would have gone with his concubine, and with his lad. But his brother's father, the damsel's father, said unto him, Behold, the day is gone, and it will be evening; tarry thou tonight. Behold, here is a lodging place this day: tarry thou here for the night, and let thine heart be merry: and in the morning rise early, and go thy way unto thy tabernacle. 10. But the man would not tarry overnight, but rose up, and departed, and came unto Jebus, that is, Jerusalem, with his pair of asses loaded, and his concubine with him. 11. And when they were come to Jebus, the day was almost gone. And the lad said unto his lord, Sweet lord, show us, and let us enter into this city of the Jebusites, and tarry in there overnight. 12. And his master said unto him, We will not go into the city of strangers, which are not of the children of Israel, but we will go over to Gibeah. 13. And he said unto his lad: Go away, that we may come to a place, and tarry in Gibeah, or in Ramah, for the night. 14. And they departed, and walked, and the sun went down hard upon them at Gibeah, which is under Benjamin. 15. And they entered in there, that they might come in, and tarry in Gibeah for the night. And when he was come in, he sat down in the street of the city: for there was none to lodge them in the house that night. 16. And, behold, there came an old man from his work out of the field in the evening; and he also was of mount Ephraim, and a stranger in Gibeah: but the men of the place were the sons of Jemini. 17. And when he lifted up his eyes, and saw the stranger in the street, he said unto him, Whither goest thou? and whence comest thou? 18. And he said unto him, We are journeying from Bethlehemjudah, until we come to the side of mount Ephraim, whence I am; and I went to Bethlehemjudah, and am now going to the house of the LORD; and no man will lodge with me. 19. We have straw and provender for our asses, and bread and wine for me, and for thy handmaid, and for the lad that is with thy servant; that we lack nothing: 20. And the old man said, Peace be unto thee. All that thou lackest thou shalt find with me; only stay not in the street overnight. 21. And brought him into his house, and fed the asses; and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink. 22. And when their heart was in good cheer, behold, the wicked men of the city came and compassed the house, and knocked at the door, and said unto the old man the landlord, Bring forth the man that is come into thine house, that we may know him. 23. But the man, the landlord, went out unto them, and said unto them: Do not, my brethren, do evil after this man is come into my house; do not do such folly! 24. Behold, I have a daughter yet a virgin, and this a concubine: them will I bring forth unto you, and ye shall put to shame, and do unto them as ye please: but in this man do not such folly. 25. But the people would not hearken unto him. Then the man took hold of his concubine, and brought her forth unto them. And they knew her, and toiled all night until the morning: and when the dawn was come, they let her go. 26. And the woman came hard before morning, and fell down at the door of the man's house, where her lord was within, and lay there until it was light. 27. And when their lord arose in the morning, and opened the door of the house, and went out to go his way, behold, his concubine was at the gate of the house, and her hands were upon the threshold. 28. And he said unto her, Arise, and let us go. But she answered not. Then he took her upon his ass, and arose, and went to his place. 29. And when he was come home, he took a knife, and laid hold on his concubine, and cut her in twain, bone and all, and sent her into all the coasts of Israel. 30. And he that saw it said, This thing hath not been done, nor seen, since the children of Israel came out of the land of Egypt unto this day. Now therefore consider these things, and give counsel, and declare them. (Judges) Chapter 20 The tribe of Benjamin is almost completely wiped out. 1. And the children of Israel went out, and gathered themselves together as one man from Dan unto Beer-sheba, and from the land of Gilead, unto the LORD to Mizpeh. 2. And the rulers of all the people of all the tribes of Israel stood by in the congregation of God, four hundred thousand men of foot, unsheathing the sword. 3. And the children of Benjamin heard that the children of Israel were gone up to Mizpah. And the children of Israel said, Tell me, how is this evil done? 4. And the Levite, the husband of the woman that was slain, answered and said: I came to Gibeah of Benjamin with my cherub, to dwell there overnight. 5. And the citizens of Gibeah arose against me, and compassed me about in the house by night, and sought to slay me; and they defiled my concubine, and she died. 6. And I took my concubine, and cut her in pieces, and sent her into all the fields of the inheritance of Israel: for they have done wickedness and folly in Israel. 7. Behold, all ye children of Israel; take counsel, and do it. 8. And all the people arose as one man, and said, Let no man enter into his tent, nor return into his house, 9. But this will we now do against Gibeah: 10. Let us draw lots, and take ten men of an hundred, and an hundred of a thousand, and a thousand of ten thousand, out of all the tribes of Israel, to take meat for the people, that they may come and do to Gibeah of Benjamin according to all their folly which they have done in Israel. 11. So all the men of Israel gathered themselves together unto the city as one man, and joined themselves together. 12. And the tribes of Israel sent men unto all the families of Benjamin, saying, What wickedness is this that is done among you? 13. Bring therefore the men, the wicked men of Gibeah, that we may kill them, and put away the evil from Israel. But the children of Benjamin would not hearken unto the voice of their brethren the children of Israel, 14. But they gathered themselves together out of the cities unto Gibeah, to go out to battle against the children of Israel. 15. And there were numbered that day of the children of Benjamin out of the cities twenty and six thousand men that drew sword, beside the men of Gibeah, of whom there were numbered seven hundred choice men. 16. And of all this people seven hundred men were chosen, which were left, and could hit a hair with the sling, that they missed not. 17. And of the men of Israel, beside Benjamin, were numbered four hundred thousand men that wielded the sword, and all the valiant men. 18. And they arose, and went up to the house of God, and asked God, saying: Who shall go up before us to begin war with the children of Benjamin? And the LORD said, Judah shall begin. 19. So the children of Israel rose up in the morning, and pitched before Gibeah. 20. And every man of Israel went out to fight with Benjamin, and sent to fight against Gibeah. 21. And the children of Benjamin came out of Gibeah, and smote twenty and two thousand of Israel that day. 22. But the people, the men of Israel, arose, and prepared themselves to fight still more in the same place where they had prepared themselves the day before. 23. And the children of Israel went up, and wept before the LORD until the even: and they asked the LORD, saying, Shall we come near more to fight with the children of Benjamin our brethren? And the LORD said, Go up unto them. 24. And it came to pass, when the children of Israel were come unto the children of Benjamin the second day, 25. And the Benjamites came out of Gibeah against them that day, and smote of the children of Israel eighteen thousand more to the ground, all of them with the sword. 26. And all the children of Israel went up, and all the people, and came unto the house of God, and wept, and tarried there before the LORD, and fasted all the day until the even, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. 27. And the children of Israel asked the LORD, saying, There was the ark of the covenant of God there at that time, 28. And Phinehas the son of Eleazar, Aaron's son, stood before him at that time, and said, Shall we go forth more to fight with the children of Benjamin our brethren, or shall I desist? And the LORD said, Go up; to morrow I will deliver them into your hand. 29. And the children of Israel set an ambush upon Gibeah round about. 30. And the children of Israel went up the third day unto the children of Benjamin, and pitched at Gibeah, as twice before. 31. And the children of Benjamin came out to meet the people, and tore themselves out of the city, and began to smite and to wound of the people, as they had done twice before, in the field, in two highways, the one to Bethel, and the other to Gibeah, about thirty men of Israel. 32. And the children of Benjamin said, They are smitten before us, as before. But the children of Israel said: Let us flee, that we may pluck them out of the city into the street. 33. And all the men of Israel arose out of their place, and prepared themselves for Baal-thamar. And the ambush of Israel sprang up in his place from the cave of Gaba. 34. And there came to Gibeah ten thousand men chosen out of all Israel, and the battle was sore: but they knew not that evil should befall them. 35. So the LORD smote Benjamin before the children of Israel, and the children of Israel destroyed that day twenty and five thousand and an hundred men in Benjamin, all of them with the sword. 36. For when the children of Benjamin saw that they were smitten, the men of Israel gave them place: for they relied upon the ambush which they had set at Gibeah. 37. And the ambush also hasted, and came forth to Gibeah, and went up, and smote the whole city with the edge of the sword. 38. And they had a charge together, the men of Israel and the ambush, to fall upon them with the sword, when the smoke was lifted up from the city. 39. And when the men of Israel turned in the battle, and Benjamin began to smite, and wounded in Israel about thirty men, and thought that they were smitten before us, as in the former battle, 40. And there began to rise up a smoke from the city straight above. And Benjamin turned behind him, and, behold, the city ascended up to heaven. 41. And the men of Israel also turned, and affrighted the men of Benjamin: for they saw that evil was about to befall them; 42. And they turned before the men of Israel toward the wilderness. And the battle followed them, and they that came in from the cities destroyed them within. 43. And they compassed Benjamin, and pursued after him unto Menuah, and trampled them before Gibeah, toward the rising of the sun. 44. And there fell of Benjamin eighteen thousand men, all of them valiant men. 45. And they turned, and fled to the wilderness, unto the rock Rimmon: and in the same way they slew five thousand men; and they followed them in the rear unto Gideom, and slew two thousand of them. 46. And there fell that day of Benjamin twenty and five thousand men that wielded the sword, all of them men of valour. 47. Only six hundred men turned and fled to the wilderness unto the rock Rimmon: and they dwelt in the rock Rimmon four moons. 48. And the men of Israel came again unto the children of Benjamin, and smote with the edge of the sword them that were in the city, both men and cattle, and all that was found: and all the cities that were found were burnt with fire. (Judges) Chapter 21 How the tribe of Benjamin was rebuilt. 1. And the men of Israel had sworn at Mizpah, saying, No man shall give his daughter to the Benjamites to wife. 2. And the people came unto the house of God, and tarried there until the even before God: and they lifted up their voice, and wept greatly. 3. And said, O LORD God of Israel, why is this come to pass in Israel, that this day there is less of a tribe of Israel? 4. And the next morning the people rose up early, and built there an altar, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. 5. And the children of Israel said: Who is there of the tribes of Israel that came not up with the congregation unto the LORD? For there was a great oath made, that whosoever came not up to the LORD to Mizpeh should surely surely die. 6. And the children of Israel repented them of Benjamin their brethren, and said: This day is a tribe broken off from Israel. 7. How shall we do unto them, that the rest may have wives? For we have sworn by the LORD, that we will not give them wives of our daughters. 8. And they said: Who is there of the tribes of Israel that came not up to the LORD to Mizpeh? And, behold, there was none in the camp of the congregation of Jabesh in Gilead. 9. For they numbered the people, and, behold, there was not a citizen of Jabesh in Gilead. 10. And the congregation sent thither twelve thousand men of valiant valour, and commanded them, saying: Go and smite with the edge of the sword the inhabitants of Jabesh in Gilead, and their wives and children. 11. But thus shall ye do: All things that are male, and all women that lie with man, banish them. 12. And they found among the inhabitants of Jabesh in Gilead four hundred damsels, virgins, which were not with any man. And they brought them into the camp to Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan. 13. And all the congregation sent, and spake unto the children of Benjamin that were in the rock Rimmon, and called unto them peaceably. 14. So the children of Benjamin came again at that time; and they gave them the wives which they had received of the women of Jabesh in Gilead: and they found none more so. 15. And the people repented against Benjamin, because the LORD had made a breach in the tribes of Israel. 16. And the elders of the congregation said: What shall we do, that the rest of them may have wives also? For the women of Benjamin are destroyed. 17. And they said: The remnant of Benjamin must keep their inheritance, lest one tribe be cut off from Israel. 18. And we cannot give them our daughters to wife: for the children of Israel have sworn, saying, Cursed be he that giveth a wife to the Benjamites. 19. And they said, Behold, there is a yearly feast of the LORD in Shiloh, which is on the north side toward Bethel, toward the rising of the sun, in the way that goeth up from Bethel to Shechem; and on the south side toward Libona. 20. And they commanded the children of Benjamin, saying: Go and lie in wait in the vineyards. 21. And it shall come to pass, when ye see the daughters of Shiloh come out with dancing, that ye shall go forth out of the vineyards, and take every man his wife of the daughters of Shiloh, and go into the land of Benjamin. 22. And when their fathers or their brethren come to make terms with us, we will say unto them, Be merciful unto them: for we took them not with strife, but ye would not give them; the iniquity is now yours. 23. And the children of Benjamin did so, and took wives according to their number of the flocks which they had spoiled, and went and dwelt in their inheritance, and built cities, and dwelt therein. 24. And the children of Israel departed from thence at that time, every man to his tribe, and every man to his family, and departed every man to his inheritance. 25. In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which seemed right unto him. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Ruth ^ Chapter 1 Ruth travels with Naemi to Bethlehem 1. In the days of the judges there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went into the country of Moab, with his wife and two sons. 2. And his name was Elimelech, and Naomi his wife, and Mahlon and Chilion his two sons, Ephrathites, of Bethlehemjudah. And when they were come into the land of Moab, they abode there. 3. And Elimelech Naomi's husband died, and she was left with her two sons. 4. they took Moabitish women. One was named Arpa, and the other Ruth. And when they had dwelt there about ten years, 5. And Mahlon and Chilion died, both of them; and the woman was left unto both the sons, and to her husband. 6. And she arose with her two cords, and departed out of the land of Moab: for she had heard in the land of Moab that the LORD had visited his people, and given them bread. 7. And she went out of the place where she was, and her two cords with her. And she went by the way, that she might return into the land of Judah, 8. And she said unto her two cords, Go and return, every one to her mother's house: the LORD have mercy on you, as ye have had mercy on the dead, and on me. 9. The LORD grant that ye may find rest, every one in her husband's house. And kissed them. And they lifted up their voice, and wept. 10. And said unto her, We will go with thee unto thy people. 11. And Naomi said, Return, my daughters; why will ye go with me? How can I have children in my womb to be your husbands? 12. Return, my daughters, and go; for I am now too old to take a husband. And if I say, It is to be hoped that I shall take a husband this night, and bring forth children, 13. How can ye wait till they be grown up? How will ye pardon, that ye should not take men? Not so, my daughters: for I am very sorry for you, because the hand of the LORD is gone out upon me. 14. And they lifted up their voice, and wept more. And Arpah kissed her sister in law: but Ruth abode with her. 15. And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is turned unto her people, and unto her God: turn thou also after thy sister in law. 16. And Ruth said, Speak not to me, that I should leave thee, and turn from thee. Whither thou goest, I will go: whither thou stayest, I will stay. Thy people are my people, and thy God is my God. 17. Where thou diest, there die I also; there will I be buried also. The LORD do this for me, and this for me: Death shall separate me from thee. 18. And when she saw that she was minded to go with her, she left off speaking to her of it. 19. So the two went together until they came to Bethlehem. And when they were come to Bethlehem, all the city was moved about them, saying, Is this Naomi? 20. And she said unto them: Call me not Naomi, but Mara: for the Almighty hath greatly grieved me. 21. I went out full, but the LORD brought me home empty. Why then call ye me Naomi, when the LORD hath humbled me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me? 22. And it came to pass about the time of the barley harvest, that Naomi and Ruth the Moabitess, her wife, returned from the land of Moab unto Bethlehem. (Ruth) Chapter 2 Ruth picks up ears of corn in Boaz's field. 1. There was also a man, the friend of Naomi, of the family of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz; he was a goodly man. 2. And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me go into the field, and glean ears of corn, after him that I find grace in. And she said unto her, Go thy way, my daughter. 3. And she went, and came, and gleaned after the reapers in the field. And it came to pass, that the same field was Boaz's, who was of the family of Elimelech. 4. And, behold, Boaz came even from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, The LORD be with you. And they answered: The LORD bless thee. 5. And Boaz said unto his lad that was set over the reapers, Whose is the damsel? 6. And the lad that was set over the reapers answered and said, It is the damsel the Moabitess, which came again with Naomi out of the country of Moab. 7. For she said, Let me glean, I pray thee, and gather me among the sheaves after the reapers: and she came and stood there from the morning until now, and tarried a little at home. 8. And Boaz said unto Ruth, Hearest thou, my daughter? Thou shalt not go to glean another field; neither go thou hence, but keep thee with my damsels; 9. And, behold, where they cut in the field, go after them. I have commanded my son that no man should touch thee. And if thou thirst, go to the vessel, and drink where my servants draw. 10. And she fell on her face, and worshipped the earth, and said unto him, Wherefore have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest know me, which am a stranger? 11. And Boaz answered and said unto her, It is told me all that thou hast done unto thy wife after the death of thy husband, that thou hast left thy father, and thy mother, and thy country, and hast gone unto a people which thou knewest not before. 12. The LORD repay thee for thy deed: and let thy reward be perfect with the LORD God of Israel, unto whom thou camest, that thou mayest have confidence under his wings. 13. And she said, Let me find grace in thine eyes, my lord: for thou hast comforted me, and hast spoken kindly unto thine handmaid, when I am not as one of thy handmaids. 14. And Boaz said unto her, When it is time to eat, come hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat down by the side of the reapers. And he put singing before her: and she did eat, and was filled, and left over. 15. And when she arose to read, Boaz commanded his lads, saying, Let her also read among the sheaves, and shame her not. 16. And of the heaps also let it remain, and let it lie, that they may gather it up; and let no man reproach them for it. 17. So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that which she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley. 18. And she took it up, and came into the city. And her sister in law saw it, what she had read. And she drew out, and gave her that which was left her, whereof she was filled. 19. And her husband's wife said unto her, Where hast thou read this day, and where hast thou wrought? Blessed is he that knoweth thee. And she told her husband's wife with whom she had wrought, saying, The man with whom I wrought this day is called Boaz. 20. And Naomi said unto her cord, Blessed be he unto the LORD, for he hath not left his mercy, both on the living, and on the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is ours, and he is our inheritance. 21. And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said also this unto me, Thou shalt cleave unto my lads, until they have reaped all for me. 22. And Naomi said unto Ruth her cord, It is better, my daughter, that thou go out with his damsels, lest any man spoil thee in another field. 23. So she went to the damsels of Boaz, and read until the harvest of barley and wheat was ended. And she came again to her wife in law. (Ruth) Chapter 3 Ruth gets good notice about future marriage. 1. And Naomi her sister in law said unto her, My daughter, I will give thee rest, and it shall be well with thee. 2. Now Boaz our friend, where thou hast been with the damsel, winnoweth barley in his threshingfloor this night. 3. Bathe thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put on thy garment, and go down into the threshingfloor, that no man may know thee, till they have eaten and drunk wholly. 4. And when he lieth down, mark the place where he lieth down; and come and uncover at his feet, and lie down, and he shall tell thee what thou shalt do. 5. And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do. 6. And she went down to the threshingfloor, and did according to all that her sister in law had commanded. 7. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, his heart was merry; and he came and lay behind an almond. And she came softly, and uncovered at his feet, and lay down. 8. And it came to pass, when midnight was come, that the man was afraid and shaken: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet. 9. And he said, Who art thou? And she answered: I am Ruth thy handmaid. Spread thy wing over thy handmaid, for thou art the heir. 10. And he said, Blessed art thou unto the LORD, my daughter. Thou hast done a better mercy afterward than thou didst before, in that thou hast not gone after the young men, rich or poor. 11. Now, my daughter, fear not. All that thou sayest I will do unto thee: for all the city of my people know that thou art a virtuous woman. 12. Well, it is true that I am the heir; but there is one nearer than I. 13. Stay the night. Tomorrow, if he take thee, well; but if he desire not to take thee, I will take thee, as the LORD liveth. Sleep till to morrow. 14. And she slept at his feet until the morning. And she arose before any man knew another: and he thought that no man might know that a woman was come into the threshingfloor. 15. And she said, Bring forth the cloak that thou hast on, and shut it. And she shut it. And he measured six measures of barley, and laid it upon her. And he came into the city. 16. And she came to her husband's wife, and she said, How is it with thee, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done unto her, 17. And he said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said, Thou shalt not come empty unto thy wife in law. 18. And she said, Be still, my daughter, until thou know where it goeth forth: for the man will not rest, but he shall finish it this day. (Ruth) Chapter 4 The marriage of Boaz to Ruth is consummated and blessed. 1. And Boaz went up into the gate, and sat down there. And, behold, as the heir passed by, Boaz spake unto him, saying, Come and sit down hither or thither. And he came and sat down. 2. And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, Sit ye down. And they sat down. 3. And he said unto the heir: Naomi, which is come again from the land of Moab, offer for sale the piece of ground that was our brother's, Elimelech's. 4. Therefore I thought to bring it up in thine ears, saying, If thou wilt inherit it, buy it before the people, and before the elders of my people: but if thou wilt not inherit it, tell me, that I may know it: for there is no inheritance without thee, nor I after thee. And he said: I will inherit it. 5. And Boaz said, When thou buyest the field at the hand of Naomi, then thou shalt take Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up a name for the dead upon his inheritance. 6. And he said, I will not inherit it, lest peradventure I should destroy mine inheritance. Inherit thou that which I shall inherit: for I will not inherit it. 7. And it was a custom in Israel of old time, that, if any man would not inherit, nor buy, any possession, that there should be any thing, he should take off his shoe, and give it unto him: this was the testimony in Israel. 8. And the heir said unto Boaz, Buy thou it: and he took off his shoe. 9. And Boaz said unto the elders and to all the people, Ye are witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi. 10. And Ruth the Moabitess, Mahlon's wife, will I take to wife; that I may raise up a name for him that is dead upon his inheritance, and that his name be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place. And his name shall not be cut off from among his brethren, nor out of the gate of his place: ye are witnesses of this this day. 11. And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said: We are witnesses. The LORD make the woman that cometh into thine house like Rachel and Leah, which built the house of Israel; and grow up very much in Ephrathah, and be glorified in Bethlehem. 12. And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the LORD shall give thee of this damsel. 13. So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And while he lay with her, the LORD gave her to be with child, and she bare a son. 14. And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not caused an heir to depart from thee at this time, that his name should remain in Israel. 15. He shall refresh thee, and keep thee in thy old age. For thy cord, which loved thee, bare him, which is better unto thee than seven sons. 16. And Naomi took the child, and laid him in her bosom, and became his keeper. 17. And their neighbours called his name, and said: Naomi is born a child; and they called his name Obed, which is the father of Jesse, which is David's father. 18. This is the family of Perez: Perez begat Hezron; 19. Hezron begat Ram; Ram begat Amminadab; 20. Amminadab begat Nahesson; Nahesson begat Salma; 21. Salma begat Boaz; Boaz begat Obed; 22. Obed begat Jesse; Jesse begat David. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first book of Samuel (1 Samuel) ^ Chapter 1 Samuel is born 1. There was a man of Ramathaim-zophim, of mount Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Thohu, the son of Zuph, which was of Ephrath. 2. And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah. And Peninnah had children, and Hannah had no children. 3. And the same man went up from his city in his own time, and worshipped, and offered sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And there were there priests unto the LORD Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli. 4. And it came to pass one day, when Elkanah offered, that he gave pieces to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters. 5. But unto Hannah he gave a piece sorrowful: for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb. 6. And her adversaries afflicted her, and greatly defied her, that the LORD had closed up her womb. 7. So it was every year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, that she was grieved, and wept, and did not eat. 8. And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Hannah, why weepest thou, and why eatest thou nothing, and why is thy heart evil? am I not better unto thee than ten sons? 9. And Hannah arose after she had eaten in Shiloh, and after she had drunk. (And Eli the priest sat on a seat by the side of the temple of the LORD.) 10. And she was sorrowful in her heart, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept. 11. And he vowed a vow, saying, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt look upon the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and wilt not forget thine handmaid, and wilt give thy handmaid a son, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. 12. And when she had prayed long before the LORD, Eli watched her mouth. 13. For Hannah spake in her heart; but her lips moved, and her voice was not heard. And Eli thought that she was drunken, 14. And said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? Let the wine come from thee, which thou hast with thee. 15. And Hannah answered and said, Nay, my lord, I am a sorrowful woman. I have not drunk wine or strong drink, but have poured out my heart before the LORD. 16. Thou shalt not regard thine handmaid as a loose woman: for out of my great grief and sadness have I spoken hitherto. 17. And Eli answered and said, Go in peace. The God of Israel will give thee thy request, which thou hast asked of him. 18. And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thine eyes. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and saw no more sorrow. 19. And they rose up early in the morning, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came home to Ramath. And Elkanah knew Hannah his wife: and the LORD remembered her. 20. And when some days were expired, she conceived, and bare a son, and called his name Samuel: for I asked him of the LORD. 21. And when the man Elkanah went up, he and all his household, to offer the sacrifice to the LORD in due season, and his vows, 22. But Hannah went not up with them, but said unto her husband, Till the child be weaned, then will I bring him, that he may appear before the LORD, and dwell there for ever. 23. And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do as thou wilt; tarry till thou wean him: and let the LORD confirm that which he hath spoken. So the woman stayed and suckled her son until she weaned him. 24. And she brought him up with her, after she had weaned him, with three bullocks, with an ephah of flour, and a flagon of wine, and brought him into the house of the LORD in Shiloh: but the lad was yet young. 25. And they slew a bullock, and brought the lad to Eli. 26. And she said, O my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood here with thee, and besought the LORD, 27. Since I asked for this boy. Now the Lord has given my request, which I asked of him. 28. Therefore I give him again unto the LORD all the days of his life, because he is desired of the LORD. And there they worshipped the Lord. (1 Samuel) Chapter 2 Hannah's praise song. Education of Samuel. Wickedness of the sons of Eli. 1. And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart is glad in the LORD; my horn is lifted up in the LORD. My mouth is opened wide against mine enemies: for I rejoice in thy salvation. 2. There is none holy, save the LORD: there is none beside thee, neither is there any stronghold, as our God is. 3. Forsake your great boasting and your boasting, and let out of your mouth that which is old: for the LORD is a God that knoweth, and suffereth not such boasting to prosper. 4. The bow of the strong is broken, and the weak are girded with strength. 5. They that were full were sold for bread, and they that famished hungered no more, till the barren woman bare seven, and she that had many children fainted. 6. The LORD killeth, and quickeneth; he bringeth into hell, and bringeth out again. 7. The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and exalteth. 8. He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and exalteth the needy out of the dunghill, to set him among princes, and to make him inherit the throne of honour. For the end of the world is the LORD'S, and he hath set the foundation of the earth upon it. 9. He shall keep the feet of his saints: but the wicked shall be destroyed in darkness: for much fortune profiteth no man. 10. They that dispute with the LORD shall perish: upon them shall he thunder in heaven. The LORD shall judge the end of the world; he shall give power unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed. 11. And Elkanah went to Ramath unto his house: and the lad was the LORD'S servant before Eli the priest. 12. But the sons of Eli were wicked men: they inquired not after the LORD, 13. Nor according to the law of the priests unto the people. And if any man would offer any thing, the priest's lad came, because the meat was boiling, having one with three prongs in his hand; 14. And he thrust it into the crucible, or into the caldron, or into the pan, or into the pot: and that which he brought forth with the crucible the priest took away. So they did unto all Israel that were come to Shiloh. 15. And it came to pass in like manner, before they had kindled the fat, that the priest's lad came and said unto him that offered the sacrifice, Give me the flesh to roast for the priest: for he will not take flesh of thee cooked, but raw. 16. And it came to pass, when any man said unto him, Let the fat be burned as it is fit to be burned to day, and afterward take that which thy heart desireth, that he said unto him, Thou shalt give it me now: if not, I will take it by force. 17. Therefore the sin of the children was very great in the sight of the LORD: for the people blasphemed the meat offering of the LORD. 18. And Samuel was a servant before the LORD: and the lad was girded with a linen ephod. 19. For this his mother made him a little skirt, and brought it up to him in his season, when she went up with her husband to offer the sacrifices in his season. 20. And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife, and said, The LORD give thee seed of this woman for the petition which she asked of the LORD. And they went to their place. 21. And the LORD visited Hannah, and she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And Samuel the lad increased with the LORD. 22. And Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel, and that they slept with the women that ministered at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 23. And he said unto them: Why do ye these things? For I hear your wickedness from all this people. 24. Not so, my children, this is not a good cry that I hear. Ye do transgress the LORD'S people. 25. If a man sin against a man, the judge is able to make him whole. But if any man sin against the LORD, who can plead for him? But they hearkened not unto their father's voice: for the LORD purposed to kill them. 26. But the lad Samuel went and increased, and was accepted of the LORD, and of men. 27. And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, I have manifested myself unto thy father's house, while they were yet in Egypt, in Pharaoh's house, 28. And I have chosen him there for me in the sight of all the tribes of Israel for the priesthood, to offer upon mine altar, and to burn incense, and to bear the ephod before me: and I have given unto thy father's house all the fires of the children of Israel. 29. Wherefore then hast thou lusted against my sacrifices and my meat offerings, which I have commanded in the tabernacle? And thou honouredst thy sons more than me, that ye should eat of the best of all the meat offerings of my people Israel. 30. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have said, Thy house and thy father's house shall walk before me for ever. But now saith the LORD, Be it far from me: but whosoever shall honour me, him will I honour also: but whosoever shall despise me, him shall he despise again. 31. Behold, the days come, that I will break in twain thine arm, and the arm of thy father's house, and there shall be no age in thine house. 32. And thou shalt see thine adversary in the tabernacle of all good that shall come unto Israel: and there shall be no age in thy father's house for ever. 33. But I will not cut off from thee any man from off mine altar, that thine eyes may fail, and that thy soul may mourn: and all the multitude of thy house shall die, when they have become men. 34. And this shall be a sign unto thee, which shall come upon thy two sons, Hophni and Phinehas: in one day shall they both die. 35. And I will raise me up a faithful priest, which shall do according to mine heart and according to my soul: and I will build him a sure house, and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever. 36. And he that is left of thy house shall come and fall down before him for a penny of silver and for a morsel of bread, and shall say, Let me to a priest's portion, that I may eat a morsel of bread. (1 Samuel) Chapter 3 Samuel is called and made respectable. 1. And when Samuel the lad ministered unto the LORD under Eh, the word of the LORD was dear in those days, and there was little divination. 2. And it came to pass, that at that time Eli lay in his place, and his eyes began to be dark, that he could not see. 3. And Samuel lay in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, before the lamp of God went out. 4. And the LORD called Samuel. And he answered, Behold, here am I. 5. And he ran unto Eli, and said, Behold, here am I, thou hast called me. And he said: I called thee not; go again, and lie down to sleep. And he went and lay down to sleep. 6. And the LORD called again, Samuel. And Samuel arose, and went to Eli, and said, Behold, here am I, thou hast called me. And he said: I called thee not, my son: go again, and lie down. 7. But Samuel knew not the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him. 8. And the LORD called Samuel the third time. And he arose, and went to Eli, and said, Behold, here am I, thou hast called me. And Eh perceived that the LORD called unto the lad, 9. And he said unto him, Return, and lie down; and when thou art called, say, Speak, O LORD: for thy servant heareth. And Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10. And the LORD came and stood there, and cried as before, Samuel, Samuel. And Samuel said, Speak; for thy servant heareth. 11. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Behold, I do a thing in Israel, that whosoever shall hear it, both his ears shall ring. 12. In that day will I raise up against Eh that which I have spoken against his house; I will begin it, and I will finish it. 13. For I told him, that I would be a judge of his house for ever for iniquity: for he knew the wickedness of his children, and saw not that they were wicked. 14. Therefore I have sworn unto the house of Eli, that the iniquity of the house of Eli shall not be atoned for, neither with sacrifice, nor with meat offering for ever. 15. And Samuel lay till the morning, and opened the door of the house of the LORD. And Samuel feared to tell the vision of Eli. 16. And Eli called unto him, and said, Samuel, my son. And he answered, Behold, here am I. 17. And he said, What is the word that is spoken unto thee? Do not conceal anything from me. God do you this and that, where you keep from me something that is told you! 18. And Samuel told him all things, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is the LORD; do that which is good in his sight. 19. And Samuel increased, and the LORD was with him: and none of his words fell to the ground. 20. And all Israel, from Dan even unto Beer-sheba, knew that Samuel was a faithful prophet of the LORD. 21. And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD was revealed unto Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD. Ch. 4, v. 1. And Samuel began to preach unto all Israel. (1 Samuel) Chapter 4 Israel's defeat. Kidnapping of the ark of the covenant. Death of Eli and his sons. And Israel went out to meet the Philistines to battle, and encamped at Eben-Ezer. And the Philistines encamped at Aphek. 2. And they armed themselves against Israel. And the battle was far divided. And Israel was smitten before the Philistines, and they smote in order in the field about four thousand men. 3. And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Why hath the LORD smitten us this day before the Philistines? Let us take unto us the ark of the covenant of the LORD from Shiloh, and let it come among us, that it may save us out of the hand of our enemies. 4. And the people sent to Shiloh, and brought thence the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, which sitteth over the cherubims. And there were the two sons of Eli with the ark of the covenant of God, Hophni and Phinehas. 5. And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD was come into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, and the earth resounded. 6. And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shouting, they said: What is the noise of this great shouting in the camp of the Eberians? And when they heard that the ark of the LORD was come into the camp, 7. And they were afraid, and said: God is come into the camp: and they said, Woe is us: for it was not so before. 8. woe is us! Who will deliver us from the hand of these mighty gods? These are the gods that smote Egypt with all manner of plague in the wilderness. 9. Be ye therefore men of good courage, O ye Philistines, that ye serve not the Ebrams, as they have served you. Be men, and fight. 10. And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten, and every man fled to his tent. And there was a very great slaughter: and there fell of Israel thirty thousand footmen. 11. And the ark of God was taken, and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, died. 12. And one of Benjamin ran out of the army, and came to Shiloh the same day, having rent his clothes, and having sprinkled earth upon his head. 13. And, behold, when he was come in, Eli sat upon the throne to look toward the way: for his heart was troubled over the ark of God. And when the man was come into the city, he told it: and all the city cried out. 14. And when Eli heard the loud cry, he said, What is this loud tumult? And the man came hurrying, and told Eli. 15. Now Eli was ninety and eight years old, and his eyes were dark, that he could not see.) 16. And the man said unto Eh, I come, and am fled this day out of the army. And he said, How is it, my son? 17. And the messenger answered and said: Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there is a great slaughter among the people: and thy two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead; and the ark of God is taken. 18. And when he remembered the ark of God, he fell back from the seat of the gate, and brake his neck in twain, and died: for he was old and a heavy man. And he judged Israel forty years. 19. And his wife, Phinehas' wife, was with child, and was about to lie. And when she heard that the ark of God was taken, and that her husband and her husband were dead, she bowed herself, and bare the child: for it came to her woe. 20. And when she was dead, the women that sat by her said: Fear not, for thou hast a young son. But she answered nothing, neither took it to heart. 21. And she called the name of the lad Ikabod, and said, The glory is departed from Israel; because the ark of God was taken, and her husband, and her husband. 22. And he said again, The glory is departed from Israel: for the ark of God is taken away. (1 Samuel) Chapter 5 Plague of the Philistines because of the kidnapped ark of the covenant. 1. And the Philistines took the ark of God, and brought it from Eben-ezer to Ashdod, 2. Into the house of Dagon, and set them by the side of Dagon. 3. And when they of Ashdod arose early on the morrow, they found Dagon lying on his face in the earth before the ark of the LORD. And they took Dagon, and set him again in his place. 4. And when they arose early on the morrow, they found Dagon again lying on his face in the earth before the ark of the LORD, and his head and his two hands cut off upon the threshold, and his body alone lying thereon. 5. Therefore the priests of Dagon, and all that go into Dagon's house, shall not tread upon the threshold of Dagon at Ashdod unto this day. 6. But the hand of the LORD was heavy upon them of Ashdod, and destroyed them, and smote Ashdod, and all the coasts thereof, in secret places. 7. And when the men of Ashdod saw that it was so, they said, Let not the ark of the God of Israel abide with us: for his hand is too hard upon us, and upon Dagon our god. 8. And they sent and gathered all the lords of the Philistines together, and said: What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel? And they said, Let them of Gath carry about the ark of the God of Israel. 9. And they carried about the ark of the God of Israel. And as they carried it about, there was a very great tumult in the city by the hand of the LORD, and they smote the people of the city, both small and great; and they had a secret plague in secret places. 10. And they sent the ark of the LORD to Ekron. And when the ark of God was come to Ekron, they of Ekron cried out, saying, They have brought the ark of God round about unto me, to slay me and my people. 11. And they sent and gathered all the lords of the Philistines, and said, Send again the ark of the God of Israel unto his place, that it slay me not, nor my people. For the hand of GOD made a very great tumult with strangling in all the city. 12. And those that died not were smitten in secret places, so that the cry of the city went up to heaven. Chapter 6 The ark of the covenant is delivered to the Israelites again. 1. So the ark of the LORD was seven months in the land of the Philistines. 2. And the Philistines called their priests and their diviners, and said: What shall we do with the ark of the LORD? Teach us, wherewith shall we send it to its place? 3. And they said: If ye will send the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty: but if ye shall repay a trespass offering, ye shall be healed, and it shall be known unto you why his hand depart not from you. 4. And they said: What is the trespass offering which we shall give unto him? And they answered: Five golden eyes, and five golden mice, according to the number of the five lords of the Philistines: for there hath been one plague upon you all, and upon your lords. 5. Now therefore make ye the likeness of your asses, and of your mice that have destroyed your land, to give glory unto the God of Israel: peradventure his hand shall be lightened upon you, and upon your God, and upon your land. 6. Why harden ye your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? Is it not so, when he proved himself to them, that they left them, and went away? 7. Now therefore take and make a new cart, and two young suckling cows, on which no yoke hath ever come, and hitch them to the cart, and let their calves remain behind them at home. 8. And take the ark of the LORD, and lay it upon the cart; and the jewels of gold, which ye shall give him for a trespass offering, put them in a little box by their sides, and send them, and let them go. 9. And behold her. If she go up by the way of her border unto Bethshemesh, he hath done us all this great evil. If not, we shall know that his hand hath not touched us, but it hath happened unto us by chance. 10. So the men did, and took two young suckling cows, and harnessed them to a cart, and kept their calves at home. 11. And they laid the ark of the LORD upon the cart, and the coffer with the mice of gold, and with the images of their eyes. 12. And the cattle went straight on toward Bethshemesh by a highway; and they went and bleated, and turned not aside on the right hand, nor on the left. And the lords of the Philistines went after them unto the border of Bethshemesh. 13. And the children of Bethshem were reaping in the wheat in the valley, and lifted up their eyes, and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it. 14. And the cart came into the field of Joshua the Bethshemite, and stood there quietly. And there was a great stone there. And they cut down the wood of the cart, and offered the heifers for a burnt offering unto the LORD. 15. And the Levites took down the ark of the LORD, and the coffer that was by it, wherein were the precious jewels, and set them upon the great stone. And the men of Bethshemesh offered burnt offerings and sacrifices unto the LORD that day. 16. And when the five lords of the Philistines had looked on, they went again to Ekron the same day. 17. Now these are the golden eyes, which the Philistines offered for a trespass offering unto the LORD: Ashdod one, Gasa one, Asklon one, Gath one, and Ekron one. 18. And golden mice according to the number of all the cities of the Philistines among the five princes, both of the walled cities and villages, and unto the great Abel, whereon they left the ark of the LORD, unto this day, in the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite. 19. And some of Bethshemesh were smitten, because they had seen the ark of the LORD. And he smote of the people fifty thousand and seventy men. And the people mourned, because the LORD had done such a great slaughter among the people. 20. And the men of Bethshemesh said: Who can stand before the LORD, that holy God? and to whom shall he go from us? 21. And they sent messengers unto the inhabitants of Kiriathjearim, saying, The Philistines have brought again the ark of the LORD; come down, and bring it up unto you. Chapter 7 The penitent Israelites are victorious against the Philistines at Samuel's prayer. 1. So the men of Kiriathjearim came and took up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in Gibeah: and they sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD. 2. And from the day that the ark of the LORD abode in Kiriathjearim, time delayed until twenty years: and all the house of Israel wept before the LORD. 3. And Samuel said unto all the house of Israel, If ye turn unto the LORD with all your heart, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and set your heart on the LORD, and serve him only; and he shall deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines. 4. And the children of Israel put away Baalim and Ashtaroth from them, and served the LORD only. 5. And Samuel said, Gather all Israel together to Mizpeh, that I may pray unto the LORD for you. 6. And they came together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted that day, and said there: We have sinned against the LORD. So Samuel judged the children of Israel at Mizpeh. 7. And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were come together to Mizpeh, the princes of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines. 8. And they said unto Samuel, Cease not to cry unto the LORD our God for us, that he may save us out of the hand of the Philistines. 9. And Samuel took a kid of the lamb, and offered a whole burnt offering unto the LORD, and cried unto the LORD for Israel: and the LORD hearkened unto him. 10. And while Samuel was offering the burnt offering, the Philistines came near to fight against Israel. And the LORD thundered a great thunder that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them, and they were smitten before Israel. 11. And the men of Israel went out from Mizpeh, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them unto Bethcar. 12. And Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Sen, and called his name Eben-Ezer, and said, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us. 13. So the Philistines were subdued, and came no more within the border of Israel: and the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. 14. So the cities which the Philistines had taken from them, from Ekron even unto Gath, and the coasts thereof, were restored unto Israel, which delivered Israel out of the hand of the Philistines: for Israel had peace with the Amorites. 15. And Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. 16. And he went about yearly to Bethel, and to Gilgal, and to Mizpah. And when he had judged Israel in all these places, 17. And he returned to Ramath, because there was his house: and there he judged Israel, and built there an altar unto the LORD. (1 Samuel) Chapter 8 Israel desires a king. Whose right is displayed. 1. And when Samuel was old, he made his sons judges over Israel. 2. His firstborn son's name was Joel, and the other Abijah: and they were judges in Beersheba. 3. But his sons walked not in his way, but inclined to covetousness, and took gift, and bowed to justice. 4. And all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Ramath unto Samuel. 5. And they said unto him, Behold, thou art grown old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now therefore set a king over us, and judge us, as all the heathen have. 6. And it displeased Samuel: and they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed before the LORD. 7. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they have said unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but me, that I should not reign over them. 8. They have done unto thee as they did from the day that I brought them up out of Egypt unto this day, and have forsaken me, and served other gods. 9. Obey therefore their voice. But testify unto them, and declare unto them the right of the king that shall reign over them. 10. And Samuel spake all the words of the LORD unto the people, which demanded of him a king. 11. This shall be the right of the king that shall reign over you: Your sons shall he take to his chariot, and horsemen to trot before his chariot, 12. And captains over thousands, and captains over fifties, and tillers of his field, and reapers of his harvest, and to make his armour, and that which pertaineth to his chariot. 13. And he shall take your daughters to be apothecaries, and cooks, and bakers. 14. Your best fields, and your vineyards, and your oliveyards, shall he take, and give unto his servants. 15. And of your seed, and of your vineyards, shall he take tithes, and give them unto his stewards and to his servants. 16. And he shall take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your fine young men, and your asses, and shall do his business with them. 17. Of your flocks shall he take tithes, and ye shall be his servants. 18. And it shall come to pass, if ye shall cry out in that day against your king, whom ye have chosen for yourselves, that the LORD will not hear you in that day. 19. But the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel, and said: Nay, but there shall be a king over us, 20. That we also may be like all the rest of the heathen, that our king may judge us, and go out before us in our wars. 21. Then Samuel obeyed all that the people spake, and told it in the ears of the LORD. 22. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto their voice, and make them a king. And Samuel said unto the men of Israel, Go ye every man to his own city. (1 Samuel) Chapter 9 Saul, the appointed king in Israel, is Samuel's guest. 1. Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Apiah, the son of a man Jemini, a man of pity. 2. And he had a son, whose name was Saul: he was a fine young man, and there was none finer among the children of Israel, of a head above all the people. 3. And Kish Saul's father had lost his asses: and he said unto Saul his son, Take one of the lads with thee, and arise, go and seek the asses. 4. And he passed through the mountains of Ephraim, and through the land of Salishah, and found them not: they passed through the land of Saalim, and were not there: they passed through the land of Jemini, and found them not. 5. And when they were come into the land of Zuph, Saul said unto the lad that was with him, Come, and let us go home again: for my father will leave the asses, and take care of us. 6. And he said, Behold, there is a renowned man of God in this city; all that he saith is done. Now therefore let us go thither: peradventure he will tell us our way that we go. 7. And Saul said unto his lad: If we go, what shall we bring to the man? For the bread is gone out of our sack: we have no other gift to bring unto the man of God. What have we? 8. And the lad answered Saul again, and said, Behold, I have with me a fourth part of a silver cup: let us give it unto the man of God, that he may tell us our way. 9. In the days of old in Israel, when they went to inquire of God, they said, Come, and let us go unto the seer. For they that are now called prophets were called seers in time past. 10. And Saul said unto his lad: Thou hast spoken well; come, and let us go. And they went to the city where the man of God was, 11. And coming up to the city, they found damsels going out to draw water. And they said unto them: Is the seer here? 12. And they answered them, and said: Yea, behold, here he is; make haste, for he is come into the city this day, because the people have to sacrifice this day in the high place. 13. When ye come into the city, ye shall find him before he go up on high to eat. For the people shall not eat until he come, when he shall bless the sacrifice; and afterward they that are bidden shall eat. Go up, therefore, for now you will find him. 14. And when they were come up to the city, and were in the midst of the city, behold, Samuel went out to meet them, and would have gone up to the high place. 15. But the LORD had revealed Samuel unto his ears the day before Saul came, saying: 16. To morrow about this time will I send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin; and thou shalt anoint him ruler over my people Israel, to deliver my people out of the hand of the Philistines. For I have looked upon my people, and their cry is come before me. 17. And when Samuel looked upon Saul, the LORD answered him, Behold, this is the man of whom I spake unto thee, that he should reign over my people. 18. And Saul came to Samuel under the gate, and said, Tell me, where is the seer's house? 19. And Samuel answered Saul, and said: I am the seer; go up before me to the high place, for ye shall eat with me to day: to morrow I will let thee go, and all that is in thine heart I will tell thee. 20. And for the asses, which thou lostst three days ago, trouble thyself not now; they are found. And whose shall be all that is best in Israel? Shall it not be all thine, and all thy father's house? 21. And Saul said, Am not I the son of Jemini, and of the least of the tribes of Israel, and my family the least of all the families of the tribes of Benjamin? Why then sayest thou these things unto me? 22. And Samuel took Saul and his son, and brought them into the ark, and set them on high among them that were bidden, which were about thirty men. 23. And Samuel said unto the cook, Give the piece which I gave thee, and commanded thee to keep it with thee. 24. And the cook took up a shoulder, and that which hung thereon. And he set it before Saul, and said, Behold, this is left; set it before thee, and eat: for it is kept for thee even to this time, when I charged the people. So Saul ate with Samuel that day. 25. And when they were come down from the high place unto the city, he spake unto Saul upon the housetop. 26. And they rose up early; and when the morning dawned, Samuel called unto Saul upon the housetop, and said, Arise, that I may let thee go. And Saul arose, and they went out together, he and Samuel. 27. And when they were come down to the end of the city, Samuel said unto Saul, Tell the lad to go before us; and he went before: but now stand thou still, that I may make thee know what God hath said. (1 Samuel) Chapter 10 Saul anointed and presented as king. 1. And Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Seest thou that the LORD hath anointed thee ruler over his inheritance? 2. And it shall come to pass, when thou goest from me, that thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin in Zelzah, which shall say unto thee, The asses are found, which thou wentest to seek: and, behold, thy father hath left the asses out of the way, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son? 3. And it shall come to pass, when thou turnest thence, that thou shalt come to the oak of Tabor; and there three men shall meet thee, which go up to God to Bethel. One beareth three goats, another three pieces of bread, and the third a bottle of wine. 4. And they shall greet thee kindly, and give thee two loaves. And thou shalt take them of their hands. 5. Afterward shalt thou come unto the hill of God, where the camp of the Philistines is: and when thou comest thither into the city, there shall meet thee a company of prophets coming down from on high, and before them psalteries, and timbrels, and pipes, and harps, and they prophesying. 6. And the Spirit of the LORD shall come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them; and thou shalt become a different man. 7. When therefore these signs come unto thee, do that which cometh under thy hands: for GOD is with thee. 8. And thou shalt go down before me unto Gilgal: behold, I will come down unto thee to offer burnt offerings and peace offerings. Seven days shalt thou tarry, until I come unto thee, and tell thee what thou shalt do. 9. And when he turned his shoulders to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all these signs came to pass the same day. 10. And when they were come to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him: and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them. 11. And when all that knew him before saw him prophesying with the prophets, they all said one to another, What is befallen the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets? 12. And one there answered and said, Who is their father? Whence came the saying: Is Saul also among the prophets? 13. And when he had made an end, he came up on high. 14. And Saul's cousin said unto him, and to his lad: Whither went ye? And they answered: To seek the asses: and when we saw that they were not there, we came to Samuel. 15. And Saul's cousin said, Tell me, what said Samuel unto you? 16. And Saul said unto his cousin, He told us that the asses were found. But of the kingdom he told him not what Samuel had said. 17. And Samuel called the people unto the LORD to Mizpeh. 18. And he said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have brought Israel out of Egypt, and have delivered you out of the hand of Egypt, and out of the hand of all the kingdoms that oppressed you. 19. And ye have this day rejected your God, which delivered you out of all your calamities and your tribulations, saying unto him, Set a king over us. Now therefore come before the LORD according to your tribes and your fellowships. 20. And when Samuel had brought all the tribes of Israel, the tribe of Benjamin was taken. 21. And when he brought in the tribe of Benjamin with their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken. And they sought him, but found him not. 22. Then asked they the LORD again, Will he come hither also? And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the barrels. 23. And they ran and fetched him from thence. And when he was come among the people, he was one main longer than all the people. 24. And Samuel said unto all the people, See ye whom the LORD hath chosen: for there is none like him among all the people. And all the people rejoiced, and said, Happy kings! 25. And Samuel told the people all the judgments of the kingdom, and wrote them in a book, and laid it before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people every man to his own house. 26. And Saul also went home to Gibeah; and there went with him of the host a part which touched the heart of God. 27. But some of the loose people said: What shall this man do for us? And they despised him, and brought him no present. But he pretended not to hear. (1 Samuel) Chapter 11 Saul's first victory against the Ammonites. 1. And Nahash the Ammonite came up, and besieged Jabesh in Gilead. And all the men of Jabesh said unto Nahash, Make a league with us, and we will serve thee. 2. And Nahash the Ammonite answered them: In this will I make a covenant with you, that I will put out the right eye of you all, and put you to shame among all Israel. 3. And the elders of Jabesh said unto him, Give us seven days, that we may send messengers into all the coasts of Israel: and if there be none to deliver us, we will go out unto thee. 4. And the messengers came to Gibeah unto Saul, and spake these things in the ears of the people. And all the people lifted up their voice, and wept. 5. And, behold, Saul came out of the field after the oxen, and said, What is the matter with the people that they weep? And they told him the matter of the men of Jabesh. 6. Then the Spirit of God was upon him, when he heard such words; and his wrath was greatly kindled. 7. And he took a pair of oxen, and cut them in pieces, and sent throughout all the coasts of Israel by messengers, saying, Whosoever shall not be cut off after Saul and after Samuel, so shall it be done unto the oxen. And the fear of the LORD fell upon the people, and they went out as one man. 8. And he made an order at Basek. And of the children of Israel were three hundred thousand men, and of the children of Judah thirty thousand. 9. And they said unto the messengers that came: So tell the men of Jabesh in Gilead: Tomorrow help shall come unto you, when the sun beginth to shine hotly. And when the messengers came and told the men of Jabesh, they were glad. 10. And the men of Jabesh said: To morrow we will go out unto you, and ye shall do unto us all that ye please. 11. And it came to pass on the morrow, that Saul divided the people into three companies, and they came into the camp about the watch of the morning, and smote the Ammonites until the day was hot: and they that remained were scattered, so that there were not two of them together. 12. And the people said unto Samuel, Who are they that said, Shall Saul reign over us? Pray ye them, men, that we may slay them. 13. And Saul said, Let no man die this day: for the LORD hath this day given salvation unto Israel. 14. And Samuel said unto the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there. 15. And all the people went to Gilgal, and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal, and offered peace offerings before the LORD. And Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced there almost exceedingly. (1 Samuel) Chapter 12 How Samuel handed over his judgeship. 1. And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have hearkened unto your voice in all that ye have said unto me, and have made a king over you. 2. And now, behold, your king goeth before you. And I am grown old and gray, and my sons are with you, and I have gone before you from my youth even unto this day. 3. Behold, here am I; answer me before the LORD, and before his anointed, if I have taken any man's ox, or any man's ass; if I have done any man violence, or any man wrong; if I have taken any gift of any man's hand, and have blinded mine eyes? then will I restore it unto you. 4. And they said: Thou hast done us no violence nor wrong, neither hast thou taken anything from any man's hand. 5. And he said unto them: The LORD be witness against you, and his anointed this day, that ye have found nothing in my hand. And they said: Yea, witness they shall be. 6. And Samuel said unto the people, Yea, the LORD that made Moses and Aaron, and brought your fathers out of the land of Egypt. 7. Come now therefore, that I may testify with you before the LORD concerning all the good deeds of the LORD, which he hath done for you and for your fathers. 8. And it came to pass, when Jacob was come into Egypt, that your fathers cried unto the LORD, and he sent Moses and Aaron to bring your fathers out of Egypt, and to make them dwell in this place. 9. And when they had forgotten the LORD their God, he sold them into the hand of Sisera the captain of Hazor, and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the king of Moab, which fought against them. 10. And they cried unto the LORD, saying: We have sinned in that we have forsaken the LORD, and served Baalim and Ashtaroth: but now deliver us out of the hand of our enemies, and we will serve thee. 11. And the LORD sent Jerubbaal, and Bedan, and Jephthah, and Samuel, and delivered you out of the hand of your enemies round about, and made you dwell in safety. 12. And when ye saw that Nahash king of the children of Ammon came against you, ye said unto me, Not thou, but a king, shall reign over us: for the LORD your God was your king. 13. Now therefore ye have your king, whom ye have chosen and asked: for, behold, the LORD hath set a king over you. 14. If ye then fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and be not disobedient to the mouth of the LORD, both ye and your king that reigneth over you shall follow the LORD your God. 15. But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but will disobey his mouth, the hand of the LORD shall be against you, and against your fathers. 16. Stand ye also now, and behold the great thing which the LORD will do before your eyes. 17. Is not the wheat harvest now? But I will call upon the LORD, and he shall cause it to thunder and to rain, that ye may understand and see the great evil that ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in that ye have asked yourselves a king. 18. And when Samuel called upon the LORD, the LORD thundered and rained that day. And all the people feared the LORD very much, and Samuel. 19. And they all said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not: for upon all our iniquity have we also done this evil, in that we have asked us a king. 20. And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this evil: nevertheless turn not aside from the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart. 21. And yield not to vanity: for it profiteth not, neither can it save, because it is a vain thing. 22. But the LORD will not trust his people for his great name's sake: for the LORD hath begun to make you his own people. 23. But let it also be far from me to sin so against the LORD, that I should cease to pray for you, and to teach you the good and right way. 24. Only fear the LORD, and serve him faithfully with all your heart: for ye have seen how great things he doeth unto you. 25. But if ye do evil, both ye and your king shall be lost. (1 Samuel) Chapter 13 Saul's distrust in the course against the Philistines 1. Saul had reigned one year; and when he had reigned two years over Israel, 2. And he chose him three thousand men out of Israel. Two thousand were with Saul in Michmash, and in mount Bethel, and one thousand with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people let him go every man to his tent. 3. And Jonathan smote the Philistines in their camp, which was at Gibeah; and it came before the Philistines. And Saul sounded a trumpet throughout all the land, saying, Let the Ebramites hear. 4. And all Israel heard say, Saul hath smitten the camp of the Philistines: for Israel stank because of the Philistines. And all the people cried after Saul unto Gilgal. 5. And the Philistines gathered themselves together to battle with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, six thousand horsemen, and the rest of the people, as the sand that was by the sea side: and they came up, and pitched at Michmash on the east side before Bethaven. 6. And when the men of Israel saw that they were in trouble, (for the people were afraid,) they hid themselves in caves, and in clefts, and in rocks, and in holes, and in pits. 7. And the Ebramites passed over Jordan into the land of Gad and Gilead. And Saul was yet at Gilgal, and all the people were timid behind him. 8. And he tarried seven days for the time appointed of Samuel. And when Samuel came not to Gilgal, the people dispersed themselves from him. 9. And Saul said, Bring me burnt offerings and peace offerings. And he offered burnt offerings. 10. And when he had finished the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came. And Saul went out to meet him, to bless him. 11. And Samuel said, What hast thou done? Saul answered: And I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not at a time appointed: and the Philistines were gathered together to Michmash. 12. And I said, Now the Philistines will come down to me to Gilgal, and I have not asked the face of the LORD: so I ventured, and offered burnt offerings. 13. And Samuel said unto Saul, Thou hast done foolishly, and hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for he would have established thy kingdom over Israel for ever. 14. But now thy kingdom shall not stand. The LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, whom the LORD commanded to be ruler over his people: for thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD. 15. And Samuel arose, and went from Gilgal to Gibeah of Benjamin. And Saul numbered the people that were with him about six hundred men. 16. And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that were with him, dwelt in the hill of Benjamin. And the Philistines were encamped at Michmash. 17. And out of the camp of the Philistines went three companies to devastate the land. And one of them went by the way of Ophrah unto the land of Shual; 18. And the second turned unto the way of Bethhoron; and the third turned unto the way of the valley of Zeboim, which is by the wilderness. 19. And there was not found a smith in all the land of Israel: for the Philistines thought that the Ebramites would make swords and spears. 20. And all Israel went down to the Philistines, if any man had a plowshare, or a hoe, or an axe, or a scythe, to sharpen. 21. And the edges of the scythes, and of the pruning hooks, and of the forks, and of the axes, were worn out, and the pricks were blunted. 22. And it came to pass, when the day of battle was come, that there was neither sword nor spear found in the hand of all the people that were with Saul and Jonathan: only Saul and his son had weapons. 23. And the camp of the Philistines went out before Michmash. (1 Samuel) Chapter 14 Jonathan's heroic deed. Saul plunges him into mortal danger through untimely zeal. 1. And it came to pass one day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto his lad that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the camp of the Philistines which is yonder. He did not tell his father. 2. And Saul abode in Gibeah at the end of a grenadier tree that was in the suburbs: and the people that were with him were about six hundred men. 3. And Ahijah the son of Ahitub, the brother of Ikabod, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, was the priest of the LORD in Shiloh, and wore the ephod. And the people knew not that Jonathan was gone. 4. And by the way, where Jonathan sought to pass over unto the camp of the Philistines, were two sharp rocks, the one on this side, and the other on that side; the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Senne. 5. And one looked from northward toward Michmash, and the other from southward toward Gaba. 6. And Jonathan said unto his armourbearer, Come, and let us go over unto the camp of these uncircumcised: peradventure the LORD will do something by us: for it is not hard for the LORD to help by much or by little. 7. And his armourbearer answered him, Do according to all that is in thine heart: go thy way, behold, I am with thee, as thine heart desireth. 8. And Jonathan said, Well, if we come over unto the people, and come in their faces, 9. Then shall they say, Stand still, till we come unto you; and we will stand still in our place, and not go up unto them. 10. But if they shall say, Come up unto us, and we will go up unto them, the LORD hath given them into our dogs. And this shall be a sign unto us. 11. And it came to pass, when they were come both to the face of the Philistines' camp, that the Philistines said, Behold, the Ebrams are gone out of the holes wherein they were hid. 12. And the men of the camp answered Jonathan and his armourbearer, and said: Come up hither unto us, and we will teach you well. And Jonathan said unto his armourbearer, Come up after me: for the LORD hath delivered them into the hand of Israel. 13. And Jonathan went up with his hands and with his feet, and his armourbearer after him. And they fell down before Jonathan, and his armourbearer choked him continually, 14. So that the first battle which Jonathan and his armourbearer did was about twenty men, almost half a hoof of ground, which is a yoke. 15. And there was a terror in the camp in the field, and in all the people of the camp; and the bands that went about were afraid; so that the land trembled: for it was a terror from God. 16. And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah-benjamin saw that the multitude was broken up, and that they went astray, and were broken up. 17. And Saul said unto the people that were with him, Count and see which of us are departed. And when they counted, behold, Jonathan and his armourbearer were not there. 18. And Saul said unto Ahijah, Bring hither the ark of God: for the ark of God was at that time with the children of Israel. 19. And while Saul yet spake unto the priest, the tumult and the running of the Philistines' camp increased. And Saul said unto the priest, Remove thy hand. 20. And Saul called, and all the people that were with him, and came to the battle: and, behold, every man's sword went against every man's, and there was a very great tumult. 21. And the Ebramites also, which were before with the Philistines, and went up with them in the camp round about, joined themselves to Israel, which were with Saul and Jonathan. 22. And all the men of Israel, which were hid in mount Ephraim, when they heard that the Philistines fled, went after them in battle. 23. So the LORD helped Israel in those days. And the battle continued unto Bethaven. 24. And when the men of Israel were faint that day, Saul charged the people, saying, Cursed be every man that eateth any thing until even, that I may avenge myself on mine enemies. So all the people ate nothing. 25. And all the land came into the forest. And there was honey in the field. 26. And when the people were come into the forest, behold, honey flowed. But no man put it into his mouth with his hand: for the people feared the oath. 27. And Jonathan had not heard that his father had bidden the people: and he stretched out his staff which he had in his hand, and dipped the point thereof in the honeycomb, and turned his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were open. 28. And one of the people answered and said, Thy father hath charged the people, saying, Cursed be every one that eateth this day. And the people were dim. 29. And Jonathan said, My father hath wandered in the land: behold, how mine eyes are waxed open, that I have tasted a little of this honey. 30. And because the people did not eat this day of the spoil of their enemies, which they found, the battle was not increased against the Philistines. 31. And they smote the Philistines that day from Michmash even unto Ajalon. And the people were very faint. 32. And the people dressed the spoil, and took sheep, and oxen, and calves, and slew them on the ground, and ate them so bloody. 33. And they told Saul, Behold, the people have sinned against the LORD, in that they eat blood. And he said: Ye have done wickedly: roll now unto me a great stone. 34. And Saul said again, Disperse yourselves among the people, and tell them, Bring every man his ox and his sheep unto me, and slay them all there, that ye may eat them, and not sin against the LORD by eating the blood. So all the people brought every man his ox with his hand by night, and slew it there. 35. And Saul built an altar unto the LORD. This is the first altar which he built unto the LORD. 36. And Saul said, Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil them, until the morning light; that we leave none of them. And they answered: Do all that pleaseth thee. And the priest said, Let us come near hither unto God. 37. And Saul said unto GOD, Shall I go down after the Philistines? and wilt thou deliver them into the hand of Israel? But he answered him not at that time. 38. And Saul said, Let all the multitudes of the people come near, and know and see in whom is the sin at this time; 39. For as the LORD liveth, the Saviour of Israel, though it be in my son Jonathan, he shall die. And no man answered him of all the people. 40. And he said unto all Israel, Be ye on that side; and I and Jonathan my son will be on this side. And the people said unto Saul, Do as it pleaseth thee. 41. And Saul said unto the LORD God of Israel, Execute judgment. And Jonathan and Saul were smitten: but the people went out free. 42. And Saul said, Cast upon me and upon Jonathan my son. And Jonathan was smitten. 43. And Saul said unto Jonathan, Tell me, what hast thou done? Jonathan told him, and said: I have tasted a little honey with the rod that was in my hand: and, behold, I die for it. 44. And Saul said, God do this unto me, and that unto me, Jonathan: thou must surely die. 45. And the people said unto Saul, Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought such great salvation in Israel? Far be it from him. As the LORD liveth, there shall not an hair of his head fall to the ground: for God hath done it by him this day. So the people redeemed Jonathan, that he died not. 46. And Saul went up from the Philistines, and the Philistines went to their place. 47. And when Saul had taken the kingdom over Israel, he fought against all his enemies round about, against Moab, and against the children of Ammon, and against Edom, and against the kings of Zobah, and against the Philistines: and whithersoever he turned he punished. 48. And he made an army, and smote the Amalekites, and delivered Israel out of the hand of all that oppressed them. 49. And Saul had sons; Jonathan, and Ishwi, and Malchishua. And his two daughters' names were Merob the firstborn, and Michal the youngest. 50. And the name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam, a daughter of Ahimaaz. And the name of his captain of the host was Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's cousin. 51. And Kish was Saul's father: and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel. 52. And there was a sore battle against the Philistines all the days of Saul. And when Saul saw a strong man, and a valiant man, he took him. (1 Samuel) Chapter 15 Saul rejected for his disobedience. 1. And Samuel said unto Saul, The LORD hath sent me to anoint thee king over his people Israel: now therefore hear the voice of the words of the LORD. 2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I have considered what Amalek did unto Israel, and how he changed his way, when he came out of Egypt. 3. Now therefore go and smite the Amalekites, and destroy them with all that they have. Spare not him, but slay both man and woman, children and sucklings, oxen and sheep, camels and asses. 4. And Saul brought them before the people, and numbered them Thelaim, two hundred thousand footmen, and ten thousand men of Judah. 5. And when Saul was come to the city of Amalek, he set an ambush by the brook. 6. And he said unto the Kenite, Pray, depart, and come down from among the Amalekites, lest I put you to death with them: for ye did mercy unto all the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt. So the Kenites went out from among the Amalekites. 7. And Saul smote the Amalekites from Havilah even unto Shur, which is before Egypt. 8. And Agag the king of Amalek was taken alive, and all the people he banished with the edge of the sword. 9. But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the good sheep, and the oxen, and the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but they destroyed that which was vile and unprofitable. 10. And the word of the LORD came unto Samuel, saying: 11. It repenteth me that I have made Saul king: for he hath turned back from me, and hath not fulfilled my words. And Samuel was wroth, and cried unto the LORD all night long. 12. And Samuel rose up early to meet Saul in the morning. And it was told him, that Saul was come to Carmel, and had set up for him a sign of victory, and was gone about, and came down to Gilgal. 13. And when Samuel came to Saul, Saul said unto him, Blessed art thou unto the LORD. I have fulfilled the word of the LORD. 14. And Samuel said, What then is the bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the roaring of the oxen that I hear? 15. And Saul said, They have brought them of the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, because of the sacrifice of the LORD thy God: the rest we have utterly destroyed. 16. And Samuel said unto Saul, Let me tell thee what the LORD hath said unto me this night. And he said, Tell me. 17. And Samuel said: Is it not so, when thou wast small in thine own sight, that thou becameest chief among the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel? 18. And the LORD sent thee on thy way, saying, Go and utterly destroy the sinners the Amalekites, and fight against them, until thou destroy them. 19. Why hast thou not obeyed the voice of the LORD, but hast turned thyself to robbery, and hast done evil in the sight of the LORD? 20. And Saul said unto Samuel, I have hearkened unto the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag king of Amalek, and have destroyed the Amalekites. 21. But the people have taken of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the best of the exiled, to offer unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. 22. And Samuel said, Thinkest thou that the LORD delighteth in sacrifice and burnt offering, rather than in obedience to the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and heedfulness than the fat of rams; 23. For disobedience is a sin of sorcery; and to resist is idolatry and idolatry. Because therefore thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath rejected thee also, that thou shouldest not be king. 24. And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned, because I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: for I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. 25. And now forgive me my sin, and return with me, that I may worship the LORD. 26. And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD hath rejected thee, that thou shouldest not reign over Israel. 27. And when Samuel turned to go away, he caught him by the corner of his skirt, and it rent. 28. And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to thy neighbour, which is better than thou. 29. Neither doth the hero of Israel lie, nor repent: for he is not a man, that any thing should repent him. 30. And he said: I have sinned; yet honor me now before the elders of my people, and before Israel; and return with me, that I may worship the LORD thy God. 31. So Samuel returned, and followed Saul, and Saul worshipped the LORD. 32. And Samuel said, Bring me Agag the king of Amalek. And Agag went to him confidently, and said, Thus must the bitterness of death be driven away. 33. And Samuel said, As thy sword hath robbed women of their children, so shall thy mother be robbed of her children among women. So Samuel smote Agag in pieces before the LORD in Gilgal. 34. And Samuel went to Ramath: and Saul went up to his house at Gibeah-saul. 35. And Samuel saw Saul no more until the day of his death. But Samuel mourned for Saul, because the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel. (1 Samuel) Chapter 16 David's profession and first anointing as king. 1. And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long mournest thou for Saul, whom I have rejected, that he should not reign over Israel? Fill thy horn with oil, and go, and I will send thee unto Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have chosen a king among his sons. 2. And Samuel said, How shall I go? Saul shall know it, and slay me. And the LORD said, Take thee a calf of the oxen, and say, I am come to sacrifice unto the LORD. 3. And thou shalt call Jesse to the sacrifice; and I will instruct thee what thou shalt do, that thou mayest anoint me, which I will tell thee. 4. And Samuel did as the LORD had said unto him, and came to Bethlehem: and the elders of the city were astonished. And the elders of the city were astonished, and went out to meet him, and said: Is it peace that thou art come? 5. And he said, Yea, I am come to sacrifice unto the LORD: sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice. And he sanctified Jesse and his sons, and invited them to the sacrifice. 6. And when they were come in, he looked on Eliab, and thought whether he were his anointed before the LORD. 7. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Behold not his form, nor his great person; I have rejected him. For it is not how a man looketh. A man looketh on the things that are before his eyes: but the LORD looketh on the heart. 8. And Jesse called unto Abinadab, and made him pass over before Samuel. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this man. 9. And Jesse passed by Samma. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this man. 10. And Jesse sent his seven sons before Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, The LORD hath not chosen him. 11. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are all the lads? And he said, There is yet the least left; and, behold, he is tending the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither. 12. And he sent and fetched him. And he was of a brownish complexion, with beautiful eyes, and of a goodly stature. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for he is he. 13. And Samuel took his horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren. And the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. And Samuel arose, and went to Ramah. 14. And the spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him greatly. 15. And the servants of Saul said unto him, Behold, an evil spirit from GOD maketh thee very uneasy. 16. Our lord shall tell his servants that stand before him, that they seek a man that can play well upon the harp; that, when the evil spirit of God cometh upon thee, he may play with his hand, that it may be better with thee. 17. And Saul said unto his servants: Look for a man who is good at playing the stringed instruments, and bring him to me. 18. And one of the lads answered and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is well skilled in the playing of the strings; a stout man, and valiant, and understanding in things, and fair; and the LORD is with him. 19. And Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, saying, Send me David thy son, which is with the sheep. 20. And Jesse took an ass of bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid of the goats, and sent them unto Saul by David his son. 21. So David came to Saul, and ministered before him: and he loved him very much, and he became his armourbearer. 22. And Saul sent unto Jesse, saying, Let David tarry before me: for he hath found grace in mine eyes. 23. And it came to pass, when the Spirit of God was upon Saul, that David took the harp, and played with his hand; and Saul was refreshed, and was better with him, and the evil spirit departed from him. (1 Samuel) Chapter 17 David's quarrel with the giant Goliath. 1. And the Philistines gathered their armies to battle, and came together to Shocho in Judah, and pitched between Shocho and Azekah, at the end of Damim. 2. And Saul and the men of Israel came together, and pitched in the valley of the oak, and prepared themselves to battle against the Philistines. 3. And the Philistines sat upon a mountain on the other side, and the children of Israel upon a mountain on this side; and there was a valley between them. 4. And there came forth out of the camps of the Philistines a giant named Goliath of Gath, six cubits high and an hand's breadth; 5. And he had a helmet of brass upon his head, and a coat of mail upon him; and the weight of his coat was five thousand shekels of brass; 6. and had brazen harness on his thighs and a brazen shield on his shoulders. 7. And the shaft of his spear was as a weaver's beam, and the iron of his spear had six hundred shekels of iron: and his shield bearer went before him. 8. And he stood and called unto the witness of Israel, and said unto them: Why are ye come out to set yourselves at war? Am not I a Philistine, and ye servants of Saul? Call one of you to come down unto me. 9. If he be able to fight against me, and smite me, we will be your servants: but if I be able to fight against him, and smite him, ye shall be our servants, to serve us. 10. And the Philistine said: I have mocked the witness of Israel this day: give me one, and let us fight together. 11. And when Saul and all Israel heard this saying of the Philistine, they were amazed and sore afraid. 12. And David was the son of an Ephrathite man, of Bethlehemjudah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons, and was an old man in the days of Saul, and was old among men. 13. And the three greatest sons of Jesse were at war with Saul, and were called by name: Eliab the firstborn, Abinadab the second, and Samma the third. 14. And David was the youngest. And the three eldest went out to war with Saul, 15. And David departed again from Saul, to keep his father's flock in Bethlehem. 16. And the Philistine came early in the morning and in the evening, and presented himself forty days. 17. And Jesse said unto David his son, Take for thy brethren these ephahs of sackbread, and these ten loaves, and run into the army to thy brethren, 18. And these ten fresh cheeses, and bring them unto the centurion; and see thy brethren, if it be well with them, and take what they command thee. 19. And Saul, and they, and all the men of Israel, were in the valley of the oak, fighting against the Philistines. 20. And David arose early in the morning, and left the sheep with the keeper, and carried, and went as Jesse had commanded him, and came to the chariot-house. And the host was come forth, and armed themselves, and cried out in battle. 21. For Israel had armed themselves, and the Philistines were armed against their stuff. 22. And David left the vessel which he bare under the keeper of the vessels, and ran unto the witness; and went in, and saluted his brethren. 23. And while he yet spake unto them, behold, a giant named Goliath, the Philistine of Gath, came up out of the Philistine's stuff, and spake as before: and David heard it. 24. But every man of Israel, when he saw the man, fled from him, and was sore afraid. 25. And all the people of Israel said, Have ye seen this man come up? For he is come up to speak evil of Israel. And whosoever smiteth him, the king will make him very rich, and give him his daughter, and will make his father's house free in Israel. 26. And David said unto the men that sat with him: What shall be done to him that smiteth this Philistine, and turneth away the reproach from Israel? For who is this Philistine, this uncircumcised man, that mocketh the testimony of the living God? 27. And the people said unto him, As before, So shall it be done unto him that smiteth him. 28. And Eliab his elder brother heard him speak with the men, and was wroth with anger against David, and said, Why art thou come down? and why hast thou forsaken the few sheep that are there in the wilderness? I know thy presumption, and the wickedness of thine heart. For thou art come down to see the battle. 29. And David said, What have I done now? Is it not commanded me? 30. And he turned from him to another, and spake as he spake before. And the people answered him as before. 31. And when they heard the words that David spake, they declared them before Saul, and he sent for him. 32. And David said unto Saul, Let no man's heart fail him for this cause: let thy servant go and fight with the Philistine. 33. And Saul said unto David, Thou canst not go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art a boy, but this man is a man of war from his youth. 34. And David said unto Saul, Thy servant was tending his father's flock, and there came a lion and a bear, and carried away a sheep from the fold. 35. And I ran after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth. And when he was come upon me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. 36. So thy servant smote both the lion and the bear. Now therefore this Philistine, the uncircumcised, shall be as one of them, because he hath defiled the stuff of the living God. 37. And David said, The LORD that delivered me from the lion and from the bear, he shall deliver me also from this Philistine. 38. And Saul said unto David, Go thy way; the LORD be with thee. And Saul clothed David with his garments, and put a helmet of brass upon his head, and put on him a coat of mail. 39. And David girded his sword upon his garments, and began to walk, because he had never tried it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go thus, for I am not accustomed: and he put it from him. 40. And he took his staff in his hand, and chose five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in the shepherd's bag which he had, and in the sack; and he took the sling in his hand, and made himself the Philistine. 41. And the Philistine went also, and made himself David, and his shield-bearer before him. 42. And when the Philistine saw, and looked upon David, he despised him. For he was a lad, brownish and fair. 43. And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest unto me with staves? And he cursed David by his God. 44. And he said unto David, Come unto me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 45. And David said unto the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come unto thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the testimony of Israel, whom thou hast heard. 46. This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand, and I will smite thee, and take away thy head from thee, and give the carcase of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that Israel hath one God, 47. And that all this congregation may know that the LORD helpeth not with sword nor with spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will deliver you into our hand. 48. And when the Philistine arose, and came near against David, David made haste, and ran from the witness against the Philistine. 49. And David put his hand into his pocket, and took a stone out of it, and cast it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, and the stone entered into his forehead, and he fell to the earth upon his face. 50. So David overcame the Philistine with the sling, and with the stone; and smote him, and slew him. And since David had no sword in his hand, 51. And he ran, and stood by the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw that their strongest was dead, they fled. 52. And the men of Israel and Judah arose, and called, and pursued after the Philistines unto the valley, and unto the gates of Ekron. And the Philistines fell slain by the way of the gates unto Gath, and unto Ekron. 53. And the children of Israel returned from pursuing the Philistines, and spoiled their camp. 54. And David took the Philistine's head, and brought it to Jerusalem; and he put his weapons in his tent. 55. And when Saul saw David going out against the Philistines, he said to Abner the captain of his host, Whose son is the lad? And Abner said, As thy soul liveth, O king, I know not. 56. And the king said, Ask then whose son the young man is. 57. And David returned from the battle of the Philistine, and Abner took him, and brought him before Saul: and he had the Philistine's head in his hand. 58. And Saul said unto him, Whose son art thou, boy? And David said: I am the son of thy servant Jesse the Bethlehemite. (1 Samuel) Chapter 18 David's praise, peril of life, and marriage. 1. And it came to pass, when he had spoken to Saul, that the heart of Jonathan was joined unto the heart of David: and Jonathan loved him as his own heart. 2. And Saul took him that day, and suffered him not to come again to his father's house. 3. And Jonathan and David made a covenant together: for he loved him as his own heart. 4. And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe which he had on, and gave it to David, and his coat, and his sword, and his bow, and his girdle. 5. And David went out whither Saul sent him, and kept himself wisely. And Saul set him over the men of war: and he pleased all the people well, even the servants of Saul. 6. And it came to pass, when he was come again from the battle of the Philistines, that the women of all the cities of Israel went out to meet king Saul with singing and with dancing, and with joy, and with violins. 7. And the women sang one against another, and played, saying, Saul hath smitten a thousand, but David ten thousand. 8. And Saul was very wroth, and the word displeased him, and said, They have given David ten thousand, and have given me a thousand: the kingdom will be yet; 9. And Saul looked sore upon David from that day forward. 10. And the next day the evil spirit of God came upon Saul, and prophesied in the house at home: and David played upon the strings with his hand, as he did every day. And Saul had a spear in his hand. 11. And he shot him, and thought: I will spear David against the wall. And David turned from him twice. 12. And Saul was afraid of David: for the LORD was with him, and was departed from Saul. 13. And Saul put him away, and made him ruler over a thousand men: and he went out and came in before the people. 14. And David behaved himself wisely in all his doings: and the LORD was with him. 15. And when Saul saw that he thought himself wise, he shrank from him. 16. But all Israel and Judah loved David: for he went out and came in before them: 17. And Saul said unto David, Behold, my greatest daughter Merob will I give thee to wife: be thou joyful, and fight the wars of the LORD. For Saul said, My hand shall not be upon him, but the hand of the Philistines. 18. And David said unto Saul, Who am I, and what is my life, and my father's seed in Israel, that I should be the king's son in law? 19. And when the time came that Merob the daughter of Saul should be given to David, she was given to Adriel the Meholathite to wife. 20. And Michal Saul's daughter loved David: and when it was told Saul, he said, This is right. 21. And I will give her unto him, and she shall be his fall, and the hands of the Philistines shall be upon him. And he said unto David, Thou shalt be my son in law this day with the other. 22. And Saul commanded his servants: Speak unto David privily, and say, Behold, the king hath a desire for thee, and all his servants love thee: now therefore be the king's son in law. 23. And the servants of Saul spake these words in David's ears. And David said, Dost thou think it a small thing to be the king's son in law? But I am a poor, little man. 24. And Saul's servants told him again, saying, These words spake David. 25. And Saul said, Thus say ye unto David, The king desireth no morning gift, save an hundred foreskins of the Philistines, to avenge himself on the king's enemies. For Saul sought to slay David by the hand of the Philistines. 26. And his servants spake these words unto David, and thought it good for David, that he should be the king's son in law. And the time was not yet ended. 27. And David arose, and went with his men, and smote of the Philistines two hundred men. And David brought their skirts, and made the king glad of the number, that he might be the king's son in law. Then Saul gave him Michal his daughter in marriage. 28. And Saul saw and knew that the LORD was with David. And Michal Saul's daughter loved him. 29. And Saul was yet more afraid of David, and became his enemy all the days of his life. 30. And when the princes of the Philistines went out, David dealt more wisely than all the servants of Saul, when they went out; and his name was magnified. (1 Samuel) Chapter 19 David, to preserve life, goes to misery. 1. And Saul spake unto Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David. But Jonathan Saul's son loved David very much; 2. And told him, saying, My father Saul seeketh to kill thee. Now therefore keep thee tomorrow, and be hid, and hide thyself. 3. And I will go forth, and stand beside my father in the field where thou art, and speak of thee unto my father; and whatsoever I see I will make known unto thee. 4. And Jonathan spake the best of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against David his servant: for he hath done no sin against thee, and his doings are very profitable unto thee; 5. And he put his life in his hand, and smote the Philistine: and the LORD did great salvation unto all Israel. This thou sawest, and rejoicedst. Why then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to kill David without a cause? 6. And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan, and sware, As the LORD liveth, he shall not die. 7. Then Jonathan called David, and told him all these words; and brought him to Saul, and he was before him as before. 8. And there was war again, and David went out, and fought against the Philistines, and made a great slaughter, and they fled before him. 9. And the evil spirit from the LORD came upon Saul, and he sat in his house with a spear in his hand: and David played upon the strings with his hand. 10. And Saul sought to spear David to the wall with the spear. And he tore himself from Saul, and the spear went into the wall. And David fled, and escaped that night. 11. And Saul sent messengers to David's house, to keep him, and to kill him in the morning. And Michal his wife told David, saying, If thou wilt not save thy soul this night, thou shalt die to morrow. 12. And Michal brought him down by the window, and he went, and fled, and escaped. 13. And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a kidskin for his head, and covered it with garments. 14. And Saul sent messengers to fetch David. And she said, He is sick. 15. And Saul sent messengers to see David, saying, Bring him up to me with the bed, that he may be put to death. 16. And when the messengers were come, behold, the image lay in the bed, and a kidskin at his head. 17. And Saul said unto Michal, Why hast thou deceived me, and left mine enemy to escape? And Michal said unto Saul, He said unto me, Let me go, or I will kill thee. 18. And David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done unto him. And he went with Samuel, and dwelt at Naioth. 19. And it was told Saul, saying, Behold, David is at Naioth in Ramah. 20. And Saul sent messengers to fetch David. And they saw two choirs of prophets prophesying; and Samuel was their overseer. And the Spirit of God came upon Saul's messengers, and they prophesied also. 21. And when it was told Saul, he sent other messengers, which prophesied also. And he sent the third messengers, and they prophesied also. 22. And he himself went to Ramah; and when he came to the great well that is in Seku, he asked, saying, Where is Samuel and David? And it was told him, Behold, at Naioth in Ramah. 23. And there he went to Naioth in Ramah. And the Spirit of God came upon him, and he went and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah. 24. And he stripped himself also of his garments, and prophesied also before Samuel, and fell down naked all that day and all that night. Therefore they say: Is Saul also among the prophets? (1 Samuel) Chapter 20 Jonathan and David's friendship. 1. And David fled from Naioth unto Ramah: and David came and spake before Jonathan, saying, What have I done? What have I transgressed? What have I sinned against thy father, that he should seek my life? 2. And he said unto him, Far be it from thee; thou shalt not die. Behold, my Father doeth nothing, great or small, that he revealeth not unto mine ears: why then should my Father hide these things from me? It will not be so. 3. And David sware again, saying, Thy father knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes: therefore he will think, Jonathan shall not know these things, lest he be grieved. Verily the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death. 4. And Jonathan said unto David, I will do unto thee according to the desire of thine heart. 5. And David said unto him, Behold, to morrow is the new moon, when I shall sit at meat with the king: let me therefore hide myself in the field until the even of the third day. 6. And if thy father inquire of me, say, David beseeched me that he would run to Bethlehem, to his own city: for there is a yearly sacrifice there unto all the family. 7. If he say, It is good, it is well with thy servant. But if he be angry, thou shalt know that evil is determined in him. 8. Now therefore do thou mercy unto thy servant: for thou hast made a covenant with me thy servant in the LORD. But if there be any iniquity in me, kill me: for why wouldest thou bring me unto thy father? 9. And Jonathan said, Far be it from me, that I should know that evil was determined by my father to come upon thee, and that I should not tell it thee. 10. And David said, Who will tell me, if thy father answer thee a hard thing? 11. And Jonathan said unto David, Come, and let us go out into the field. And they went both of them out into the field, 12. And Jonathan said unto David, O LORD God of Israel, if I search my father to morrow, and the third day, that it be well with David, and send not unto thee, and shew it not in thine ears. 13. Then let the LORD Jonathan do this, and that. And if it please my father to do evil against thee, I will shew it also in thine ears, and let thee go in peace. And the LORD be with thee, as he was with my father. 14. If I do it not, do not the mercy of the LORD upon me, because I live, neither if I die. 15. And it shall come to pass, when the LORD shall cut off the enemies of David, every one out of the land, that thou wilt not tear thy mercy from mine house for ever. 16. So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, The LORD require it out of the hand of David's enemies. 17. And Jonathan went on, and sware unto David, that he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul. 18. And Jonathan said unto him, To morrow is the new moon, and they shall inquire of thee: for thou shalt be missed when thou sittest. 19. And the third day come down quickly, and go into a place where thou shalt hide thyself in the day of work, and sit down by the stone of Asel, 20. Then will I shoot three arrows at his side, as I shot at the sure time. 21. And, behold, I will send the lad: Go, seek the arrows. And if I say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows lie behind thee hither; go and fetch them: come, for there is peace, and no hurt, as the LORD liveth. 22. And if I say unto the young man, Behold, the arrows lie before thee thither: go thy way, for the LORD hath let thee go. 23. And whatsoever thou and I have spoken together, the LORD is between me and thee for ever. 24. And David hid himself in the field. And when the new moon was come, the king sat down to meat. 25. And when the king was set in his place, as he was set before, against the wall, Jonathan arose, and Abner sat by Saul's side. And David was missed in his place. 26. And Saul spake nothing that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, that he is not clean. 27. And it came to pass on the second day of the new moon, when David was missed in his place, that Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Why is not the son of Jesse come to the table, either yesterday or to day? 28. And Jonathan said unto Saul, He besought me that he would go to Bethlehem, 29. And he said, Let me go, for our family hath sacrifices to offer in the city, and my brother hath commanded me himself: now therefore if I have found grace in thine eyes, I will go away, and see my brethren. Therefore he came not to the king's table. 30. And Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou rebellious wicked man! I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to be a reproach unto thee and to thy wicked mother. 31. For as long as the son of Jesse liveth upon the earth, thou shalt not stand, neither shall thy kingdom. Send therefore, and bring him to me; for he must die. 32. And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Why should he die? What hath he done? 33. And Saul shot the spear at him, and speared him. And Jonathan perceived that it was fully determined with his father to slay David. 34. And he arose from the table in fierce wrath, and did eat no bread the next day of the new moon: for he was grieved for David, because his father condemned him so. 35. And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the field, whither he had appointed David, and a little lad with him. 36. And said unto the lad: Run, and find me the arrows which I shoot. And as the lad ran, he shot an arrow at him. 37. And when the lad came to the place whither Jonathan had shot the arrow, Jonathan called after him, and said, The arrow lieth thither before thee. 38. And called after him again: Make haste, and stand not still. And the lad of Jonathan gathered up the arrows, and brought them unto his lord. 39. And the lad knew not: but Jonathan and David knew the matter. 40. And Jonathan gave his weapon unto his lad, and said unto him, Go and carry it into the city. 41. And when the lad was come in, David arose out of the place about noon, and fell on his face to the ground, and worshipped three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with another; but David most of all. 42. And Jonathan said unto David, Go in peace. That which we both have sworn in the name of the LORD, saying, The LORD be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed, shall stand for ever. 43. And Jonathan arose, and came into the city. (1 Samuel) Chapter 21 David starves, flees, and dissembles. 1. And David came to Nobe unto Ahimelech the priest. And Ahimelech was amazed, when he met David, and said unto him, Why comest thou alone, and is there no man with thee? 2. And David said unto Ahimelech the priest, The king commanded me a thing, and said unto me, Let no man know why I have sent thee, or what I have commanded thee. For I have also sent my sons hither or thither. 3. Now if thou hast any under thine hand, one loaf, or five, deliver them into my hand, or whatsoever thou findest. 4. And the priest answered David, and said: I have no common bread under my hand, but holy bread; if only the boys had abstained from women! 5. And David answered the priest, and said unto him, The women were barred unto us three days, when I went forth; and the lad's seed was holy: but if this way be unholy, it shall be sanctified this day in the witness. 6. Then the priest of the holy place gave him, because there was no other bread than the shewbread that was laid up before the LORD, to lay up other fresh bread that day, when he had taken it away. 7. And there was that day a man shut up before the LORD of the servants of Saul, whose name was Doeg, an Edomite, the mightiest of the shepherds of Saul. 8. And David said unto Ahimelech, Is there not here under thine hand a spear or a sword? I have not taken my sword and weapons with me; for the king's cause was urgent. 9. And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou smote in the valley of the oak, is here, wrapped in a cloak behind the ephod. If thou wilt have the same, take it: for there is none else here but this. And David said, There is none like it: give it me. 10. And David arose and fled from before Saul, and came to Achish king of Gath. 11. And the servants of Achish said unto him, This is David king of the land, of whom they sang in the round dance, saying, Saul slew a thousand, and David ten thousand. 12. And David took the speech to heart, and was sore afraid of Achish king of Gath. 13. And he disguised his gesture before them, and rolled under their hands, and thrust himself at the door of the gate, and his jealousy flowed into his beard. 14. Then said Achish unto his servants: Behold, ye see that the man is foolish: wherefore have ye brought him unto me? 15. Have I not enough of the foolish, that ye have brought this one to run beside me? Shall he come into my house? (1 Samuel) Chapter 22 Saul has eighty-five priests killed by the traitor Doeg. 1. And David went from thence, and escaped into the cave of Adullam: and when his brethren heard it, and all his father's house, they came down unto him there. 2. And there were gathered unto him all manner of men that were in distress, and in debt, and of a grieved heart: and he was chief of them; and there were with him about four hundred men. 3. And David went from thence unto Mizpeh, into the land of Moab, and said unto the king of Moab, Let my father and my mother go out and come in unto you, until I know what God will do unto me. 4. And he left them before the king of Moab, to abide with him all the days that David was in the castle. 5. And Gad the prophet said unto David, Dwell not in the castle, but go and come into the land of Judah. So David went, and came into the forest of Hareth. 6. And it came to pass before Saul, that David and the men that were with him came forth. And it came to pass, as Saul dwelt in Gibeah under a grove in Ramah, that he had his spear in his hand, and all his servants stood by him. 7. And Saul said unto his servants that sat by him: Hear, ye children of Jemini, the son of Jesse also shall give you all the fields and vineyards, and make you rulers over thousands and over hundreds, 8. That ye have all joined yourselves together against me; and is there none that hath made it known unto mine ears, because my son also hath made a covenant with the son of Jesse? Is there none of you whom it grieveth for me, and revealeth it unto mine ears? For my son hath raised up my servant against me, to come after me as it is in the day. 9. And Doeg the Edomite, which stood by Saul's servants, answered and said: I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nobe to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub. 10. And he asked the LORD for him, and gave him meat, and the sword of Goliath the Philistine. 11. And the king sent and called Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father's house, the priests that were at Nobe. And they came all unto the king. 12. And Saul said, Hear, thou son of Ahitub. And he said, Here am I, my lord. 13. And Saul said unto him, Why have ye made a covenant against me, thou and the son of Jesse, to give him bread and a sword, and to ask God for him, that thou shouldest raise him up to pursue me, as it is in the day? 14. And Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is there among all thy servants, but David, that is faithful, and the king's son in law, and walketh in thy obedience, and is kept in thy house in glory? 15. Have I but this day begun to ask God for him? Be it far from me! Let not the king lay these things upon his servant in all my father's house: for your servant has known nothing of all this, small or great. 16. And the king said, Ahimelech, thou must surely die, thou, and all thy father's house. 17. And the king said unto his servants that sat by him: Turn ye, and slay the priests of the LORD: for their hand also is with David; and when they knew that he fled, they told me not. But the king's servants would not lay their hands on the priests of the LORD to slay them. 18. And the king said unto Doeg, Turn thou, and slay the priests. Turn thou, and slay the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and slew the priests: and there died that day fourscore and five men that wore linen vestments. 19. And the city of the priests, Nobe, he smote with the edge of the sword, both man and woman, children and sucklings, oxen and asses and sheep. 20. And there escaped a son of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, whose name was Abiathar, and he fled after David. 21. And he told him that Saul had slain the priests of the LORD. 22. And David said unto Abiathar, I knew it the day that Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would tell Saul: I am guilty of all the souls of thy father's house. 23. Abide with me, and fear not. He that standeth after my life, the same shall stand after thy life: and thou shalt be kept with me. (1 Samuel) Chapter 23 David is betrayed anew, persecuted, and miraculously saved. 1. And it was told David, saying, Behold, the Philistines fight against Keilah, and spoil the threshingfloors. 2. And David asked the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, thou shalt smite the Philistines, and deliver Keilah. 3. And the men that were with David said unto him, Behold, we are afraid here in Judah, and will go to Keilah, to the Philistines' house? 4. And David asked the LORD again: and the LORD answered him, and said, Go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand. 5. So David and his men went to Keilah, and fought against the Philistines, and carried off their cattle, and did great slaughter unto them. So David delivered them that were in Keilah. 6. For when Abiathar the son of Ahimelech fled to David to Keilah, he carried the ephod down with him. 7. And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah, and Saul said, God hath delivered him into mine hand, that he should be shut up, when he was come into a city shut up with gates and bars: 8. And Saul called all the people to battle at Keilah, to put David and his men to the sword. 9. And when David knew that Saul had evil thoughts against him, he said unto Abiathar the priest, Bring forth the ephod. 10. And David said, O LORD God of Israel, thy servant hath heard that Saul seeketh to come to Keilah to destroy the city for my sake. 11. Will the people of Keilah deliver me into his hand? And shall Saul come down, as thy servant hath heard? Declare it, O LORD God of Israel, unto thy servant. And the LORD said, He shall come down. 12. And David said, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the LORD said, Yea. 13. Then David arose, he and his men, about six hundred of them, and departed from Keilah, and walked whithersoever they could. And when it was told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah, he put his departure in order. 14. And David abode in the wilderness, in the stronghold, and dwelt in the mount in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him all the days of his life: but God delivered him not into his hand. 15. And David saw that Saul was gone out to seek his life. But David was in the wilderness of Ziph, in the heath. 16. And Jonathan the son of Saul arose, and went to David into the heathen, and strengthened his hand in God; 17. And he said unto him, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt reign over Israel, and I will be next unto thee; and my father knoweth these things. 18. And they made both of them a covenant together before the LORD. And David abode in the heath, but Jonathan returned home. 19. And the Ziphites went up to Saul to Gibeah, and said: Is not David hid with us in the castle, in the heath, in the hill of Hachilah, which is on the right hand of the wilderness? 20. Therefore let the king come down according to all the desire of his heart, and let us deliver him into the king's hand. 21. And Saul said, Blessed be ye unto the LORD, that ye have had mercy upon me. 22. Go ye therefore, and be more sure, that ye may know and see in what place his feet have been, and who hath seen him there: for it is told me that he is crafty. 23. Behold, search out all the places where he is hid, and come again unto me, if ye be sure, and I will go with you. And if he be in the land, I will search for him among all the thousands of Judah. 24. And they made ready, and went to Ziph before Saul. And David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, in the region on the right hand of the wilderness. 25. And when Saul went with his men to seek, it was told David: and he went down into the rock, and dwelt in the wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard it, he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon. 26. And Saul and his men went on one side of the mountain, and David and his men on the other side of the mountain. And when David hasted to escape from Saul, Saul and his men compassed David and his men, and took them. 27. And there came a messenger to Saul, saying, Make haste, and come; for the Philistines are fallen into the land. 28. And Saul turned back from pursuing David, and went to meet the Philistines: therefore the name of the place is called Shelah-mahelkoth. Ch. 24, v. 1. And David went up from thence, and abode in the castle of Engedi. (1 Samuel) Chapter 24 David spares Saul in the cave 2. And when Saul was come again from the Philistines, he was told, Behold, David is in the wilderness of Engedi. 3. And Saul took three thousand young men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rock of the chamois. 4. And when he was come to the sheepcote by the way, there was a cave there: and Saul went in to cover his feet. And David and his men sat in the back of the cave. 5. And David's men said unto him, Behold, this is the day of which the LORD hath said unto thee, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, and thou shalt do unto him as it pleaseth thee. And David arose, and quietly cut a corner of Saul's skirt. 6. But afterward his heart smote him, because he had cut off the tail of Saul, 7. And he said unto his men, Let this thing be far from me, that I should do it, and lay my hand upon my lord the LORD'S anointed: for he is the LORD'S anointed. 8. And David sent away his men with words, and suffered them not to rise up against Saul. And Saul arose out of the cave, and went by the way, 9. And afterward David also arose, and went out of the cave; and called after Saul in the rear, and said, My lord the king. And Saul looked behind him. And David bowed his face to the ground, and worshipped. 10. And said unto Saul, Why obeyest thou the word of men, which say, David seeketh thy mischief? 11. Behold, this day thine eyes see that the LORD hath delivered thee this day into mine hand in the cave, and it was said that I should slay thee. But thou wast spared, because I said: I will not lay my hand upon my lord; for he is the LORD'S anointed. 12. My father, behold the corner of thy skirt in mine hand, that I would not slay thee, when I cut off the corner of thy skirt. Know and see that there is no evil in my hand, nor any transgression. Neither have I sinned against thee: And thou huntest my soul to take it away. 13. The LORD will be judge between me and thee, and will avenge me on thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee. 14. As the old saying is, From the wicked cometh iniquity. But my hand shall not be upon thee. 15. Whom goest thou after, O king of Israel? Whom dost thou pursue? A dead dog, a few fleas? 16. Let the LORD be judge, and judge between me and thee, and see; and plead my cause, and deliver me out of thine hand. 17. And when David had spoken these words unto Saul, Saul said, Is not this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept. 18. And he said unto David, Thou art more righteous than I. Thou hast proved me good, but I have proved thee evil. 19. And thou hast shewed me this day how thou hast done good unto me, how that the LORD had delivered me into thy hand, and yet thou hast not slain me. 20. How shall a man find his enemy, and let him go a good way? The LORD repay thee good for this day, which thou hast done unto me! 21. Now therefore, behold, I know that thou shalt be king, and the kingdom of Israel is in thine hand. 22. Now therefore swear unto me by the LORD, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, neither wipe out my name from my father's house. 23. And David sware unto Saul. And Saul went home; and David and his men went up to the castle. (1 Samuel) Chapter 25 Samuel's death. Nabal's folly. Abigail's caution. David's courtship of her. 1. And Samuel died; and all Israel gathered themselves together, and mourned for him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down into the wilderness of Paran. 2. And there was a man in Maon, and his substance in Carmel: and the man was of great substance, and had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats. And it came to pass, that he shewed his sheep in Carmel. 3. And his name was Nabal; and his wife's name was Abigail, and she was a woman of good understanding, and fair of face: but the man was hard and wicked in his doings, and was one of Caleb. 4. And it came to pass, when David was in the wilderness, that he heard Nabal shearing his sheep, 5. And he sent forth ten young men, and said unto them: Go up to Carmel, and when ye come to Nabal, greet him kindly for my sake. 6. And say, Peace be unto thee, and to thy house, and to all that thou hast. 7. I have heard that thou hast shearers. Now thy shepherds, which thou hast, have been with us; we have not mocked them, neither have they lacked in number all the days that they have been at Carmel. 8. Ask thy young men therefore, and they shall tell thee: and let the young men find grace in thine eyes: for we are come to a good day. Give unto thy servants, and unto thy son David, that which thine hand findeth. 9. And when the young men of David were come, and had spoken all these words unto Nabal because of David, they ceased. 10. And Nabal answered David's servants, and said, Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? Now there are many servants that tear themselves from their masters. 11. Shall I take my bread, and my water, and my flesh, which I have slain for my shearers, and give them unto men whom I know not whence they are? 12. And the young men of David returned on their way: and when they were come again to him, they told him all these things. 13. And David said unto his men, Gird every man his sword upon him. And every man girded his sword upon him; and David girded his sword also upon him, and went up after him about four hundred men: but two hundred abode by the device. 14. And Abigail Nabal's wife said unto one of the young men, Behold, David hath sent messengers out of the wilderness to bless our lord: and he snorted at them. 15. And they have been very good unto us, and have not mocked us, neither have we lacked in number as long as we have walked with them in the field, 16. But have been our walls day and night, all the days that we have kept the sheep with them. 17. Take heed therefore, and see what thou doest: for surely there is a calamity upon our lord, and upon all his house; and he is an unruly man, to whom no man may speak. 18. And Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two measures of wine, and five sheep boiled, and five measures of flour, and an hundred heads of raisins, and two hundred heads of figs, and loaded them upon asses. 19. And said unto her young men: Go before me; behold, I will come afterward. And she told not her husband Nabal. 20. And as she rode upon the ass, and went down in the darkness of the mountain, behold, David met her, and his men came down, and met her. 21. And David had said: For I have kept in vain all that this man hath in the wilderness, that nothing hath failed of all that he hath: and he hath paid me good with evil. 22. God do so, and more to the enemies of David, where I deliver unto this until light morrow one that pisseth against the wall out of all that he hath! 23. And when Abigail saw David, she came down quickly from off her ass, and fell on her face before David, and worshipped the earth. 24. And he fell down at his feet, and said, Alas, my lord, let this iniquity be mine; and let thy handmaid speak in thine ears, and hear the words of thy handmaid. 25. Let not my lord set his heart against this Nabal the hopeless man: for he is a fool, as his name is called, and foolishness is with him. But I thy handmaid have not seen the young men of my lord, whom thou hast sent. 26. But now, my lord, as the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, the LORD hath prevented thee from coming against the blood, and hath redeemed thy hand. Now therefore, as Nabal, so shall thine enemies be, and they that would do evil unto my lord. 27. Here is the blessing which thy handmaid hath brought unto my lord: give it unto the young men that walk under my lord. 28. Forgive the transgression of thine handmaid. For the LORD will make my lord an established house, because thou hast made war with the LORD: and let no evil be found in thee all the days of thy life. 29. And if a man rise up to persecute thee, and seek thy soul, the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of the living with the LORD thy God: but the soul of thine enemies shall be slung with the sling. 30. When the LORD shall do all the good unto my lord, which he hath spoken unto thee, and shall command thee to be a duke over Israel, 31. Then it shall not be a shock nor an offence unto the heart of my lord, that thou hast not shed blood without a cause, and saved thyself: then shall the LORD be well pleased with my lord, and thou shalt remember thy handmaid. 32. And David said unto Abigail: Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which hath sent thee this day to meet me. 33. And blessed be thy speech, and blessed be thou that thou hast saved me this day, that I have not come against blood, and have redeemed myself with mine own hand. 34. Verily, as the LORD God of Israel liveth, who hath prevented me from doing thee evil, if thou hadst not hasted to meet me, there would not have remained unto Nabal this bright morning one that pisseth against the wall. 35. So David took from her hand that which she had brought him, and said unto her, Go up in peace unto thine house: behold, I have hearkened unto thy voice, and have looked upon thy person. 36. And when Abigail came to Nabal, behold, he had prepared a feast in his house, as the feast of a king: and his heart was good with himself, and he was very drunken. And she told him nothing, neither small nor great, until the morning light. 37. And it came to pass, when it was morning, and the wine was come from Nabal, that his wife told him these things. And his heart was sore in his flesh, and he became as a stone. 38. And for ten days the LORD smote him, and he died. 39. And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, Blessed be the LORD, which smelled my reproach upon Nabal, and delivered his servant from evil: and the LORD hath recompensed the evil of Nabal upon his head. And David sent and spake unto Abigail, that he might take her to wife. 40. And when David's servants came to Abigail to Carmel, they spake unto her, saying: David sent us unto thee, that he might take thee to wife. 41. And she arose, and worshipped upon her face to the earth, saying, Behold, here is thy handmaid, to minister unto the servants of my lord, and to wash their feet. 42. And Abigail made haste, and arose, and rode upon an ass, and five damsels that were under her, and went after David's messengers, and became his wife. 43. And David took Ahinoam of Jezreel; and they were both his wives. 44. And Saul gave Michal his daughter, David's wife, to Phalti the son of Lai of Gallim. (1 Samuel) Chapter 26 David takes Saul's spear and water cup. 1. And they of Ziph came to Saul to Gibeah, and said: Is not David hid in the hill of Hachilah before the wilderness? 2. And Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, and with him three thousand young men of Israel, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph. 3. And he encamped in the hill of Hachilah, which is before the wilderness by the way. And David abode in the wilderness. And when he saw that Saul was come after him into the wilderness, 4. And he sent out spies, and learned that Saul was sure to come. 5. And David arose, and came to the place where Saul was encamped, and saw the place where Saul lay with Abner the son of Ner, the captain of his host. For Saul lay in the chariot, and the host round about him. 6. And David answered and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, the brother of Joab, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said: I will go down with thee. 7. So David and Abishai came to the people by night. And, behold, Saul lay sleeping in the chariot-house, and his spear was in the earth at his head. And Abner and the people lay about him. 8. And Abishai said unto David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore will I thrust him into the earth with the spear once, that he have no more need. 9. And David said unto Abishai, Destroy him not: for who shall lay hands on the LORD'S anointed, and go unpunished? 10. And David said, As the LORD liveth, if the LORD smite him not, or his time come that he die, or go into battle, and perish, 11. Then let the LORD be far from me, that I should lay my hand upon the LORD'S anointed. Now therefore take the spear for his heads, and the cup of water, and let us go. 12. So David took the spear and the cup of water at the heads of Saul, and went; and there was none that saw, nor knew, nor awaked; but they were all asleep. For a deep sleep had fallen upon them from the LORD. 13. And when David was come over on the other side, he stood upon the top of the mountain afar off, and there was a great space between them. 14. And the people cried unto Abner the son of Ner, saying, Hearest thou not, Abner? And Abner answered and said, Who art thou that crieth out against the king? 15. And David said unto Abner, Art not thou a man? and who is like thee in Israel? Why then hast thou not kept thy lord the king? For one of the people is come in to destroy thy lord the king. 16. But it is not good that thou hast done this thing. As the LORD liveth, ye are the children of death, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD'S anointed. Now, behold, here is the king's spear, and the cup of water that was at his head. 17. And Saul knew the voice of David, and said: Is not this thy voice, my son David? And David said, It is my voice, my lord the king. 18. And he said, Why doth my lord thus persecute his servant? What have I done, and what evil is in my hand? 19. Now therefore, let my lord the king hear the words of his servant, If the LORD provoke thee against me, let a meat offering be smelled: but if the children of men do it, let them be accursed before the LORD, to cast me out this day, that I cleave not unto the inheritance of the LORD, saying: Go, serve other gods. 20. Now therefore let not my blood fall to the ground from the presence of the LORD. For the king of Israel is gone out to seek a flea, as one chaseth a partridge upon the mountains. 21. And Saul said: I have sinned; come again, my son David. I will not harm thee again, because my soul hath been dear in thine eyes this day. Behold, I have done foolishly and very unwisely. 22. And David answered and said, Behold, here is the king's spear; let one of the young men go over and fetch it. 23. But the LORD will recompense every man according to his righteousness and faith. For the LORD hath delivered thee into mine hand this day; but I would not lay mine hand upon the LORD'S anointed. 24. And as this day thy soul was greatly esteemed in mine eyes, so let my soul be greatly esteemed in the eyes of the LORD, and save me from all tribulation. 25. And Saul said unto David, Blessed art thou, my son David; thou shalt do it, and go forth. And David went his way, and Saul returned unto his place. (1 Samuel) Chapter 27 David's apartment in Ziklag. 1. And David said in his heart, I shall fall into the hand of Saul in those days: nothing is better for me than that I should escape into the land of the Philistines, that Saul should desist from seeking me again throughout all the coasts of Israel; and I shall escape out of his hand. 2. And he arose, and went over, he and the six hundred men that were with him, unto Achish the son of Maoch, king of Gath. 3. So David dwelt at Achish in Gath with his men, every man with his household; and David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, the wife of Nabal. 4. And when it was told Saul that David was fled to Gath, he sought him no more. 5. And David said unto Achish, If I have found grace in thine eyes, let me have a place in the cities of one of the country, that I may dwell therein: why should thy servant dwell with thee in the royal city? 6. Then Achish gave him Ziklag of that day. Therefore Ziklag is the king of Judah unto this day. 7. And the time that David dwelt in the land of the Philistines was one year and four months. 8. And David went up, he and his men, and fell into the land of the Geshurites, and the Gittites, and the Amalekites: for these were the inhabitants of that land of old, when they came unto Shur, even unto the land of Egypt. 9. And when David had smitten the land, he left neither man nor woman alive, and took sheep, and oxen, and asses, and camels, and raiment; and returned, and came to Achish. 10. And when Achish said, Are ye not invaded this day? then said David, Against the south of Judah, and against the south of the Jerahmeelites, and against the south of the Kenites. 11. And David suffered neither man nor woman to come alive to Gath, and thought that they would speak and gossip against us. So David did, and it was his way all the days that he dwelt in the land of the Philistines. 12. Therefore Achish believed David, saying, He hath made himself vile in the sight of his people Israel: therefore shall he be my servant for ever. (1 Samuel) Chapter 28 Saul seeks advice from a magician and is frightened by the ghost. 1. And it came to pass in those days, that the Philistines gathered their host together to battle against Israel. And Achish said unto David, Thou shalt know that thou and thy men shall go forth with me into the army. 2. And David said unto Achish, Well, thou shalt know what thy servant shall do. And Achish said unto David, Therefore will I make thee keeper of my head all the days of my life. 3. And Samuel died, and all Israel mourned for him, and buried him in Ramah his city. So Saul had driven out of the land the soothsayers and the diviners. 4. And it came to pass, when the Philistines were gathered together, and were come and encamped at Sunem, that Saul gathered all Israel together, and encamped at Gilboa. 5. And when Saul saw the host of the Philistines, he was afraid, and his heart was sore troubled. 6. And he consulted the LORD: but the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by light, nor by prophets. 7. And Saul said unto his servants: Seek me out a woman that hath a spirit of divination, that I may go unto her, and ask her. And his servants said unto him, Behold, there is a woman at Endor that hath a spirit of divination: 8. And Saul changed his garments, and put on other garments, and went, and two others with him, and came by night unto the woman, and said, Prophesy unto me by the spirit of the diviner, and bring up unto me that I tell thee. 9. And the woman said unto him, Behold, thou knowest well what Saul hath done, how he hath cut off the soothsayers and the diviners from the land: why then wilt thou bring my soul into the net, that I may be killed? 10. And Saul sware unto her by the LORD, saying, As the LORD liveth, let not this thing come to thee into iniquity. 11. And the woman said, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring up Samuel unto me. 12. And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice, and said unto Saul, Why hast thou deceived me? Thou art Saul. 13. And the king said unto her, Fear not; what seest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I see gods coming up out of the earth. 14. And he said, What manner of man is he? And she said, There cometh up an old man, clothed in a robe of silk. And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and bowed himself with his face to the ground, and worshipped. 15. And Samuel said unto Saul, Why hast thou troubled me, to bring me up? And Saul said: I am greatly distressed, the Philistines fight against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me not, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore have I sent for thee, that thou mightest tell me what I should do. 16. And Samuel said, What wilt thou ask me, because the LORD is departed from thee, and is become thine enemy? 17. The LORD will do unto thee as he hath spoken by me, and will snatch the kingdom out of thine hand, and will give it to David thy neighbour; 18. Because thou hast not hearkened unto the voice of the LORD, nor executed the fury of his wrath against thee, therefore hath the LORD done this thing unto thee. 19. And the LORD shall deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines. Tomorrow thou and thy sons shall be with me. The LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines. 20. And Saul fell to the ground as long as he was, and was sore afraid at the words of Samuel, because there was no strength in him: for he had eaten nothing all that day nor all that night. 21. And the woman went in unto Saul, and saw that he was sore afraid, and said unto him, Behold, thy handmaid hath hearkened unto thy voice, and I have put my soul in mine hand, to hearken unto thy words which thou hast spoken unto me. 22. Now therefore thou also shalt obey thy handmaid's voice. I will set before thee a morsel of bread, that thou mayest eat, and recover thy strength, and go thy way. 23. But he refused, and said: I will not eat. And his servants and the woman constrained him, that he should obey their voice. And he arose from the earth, and sat up in bed. 24. And the woman had a fatted calf at home; and she made haste, and slew it, and took flour, and kneaded it, and baked it unleavened. 25. And he brought it before Saul, and before his servants. And when they had eaten, they arose, and passed the night. (1 Samuel) Chapter 29 David is sent back by the Philistines. 1. And the Philistines gathered all their armies to Aphek: and Israel encamped at Am in Jezreel. 2. And the lords of the Philistines went by hundreds, and by thousands: but David and his men went behind at Achish. 3. And the princes of the Philistines said, What shall these Ebrams do? And Achish said unto them: Is not this David the servant of Saul king of Israel, which hath been with me year and day, and hath found nothing in him from the time he fell away until now? 4. And the lords of the Philistines were wroth with him, and said unto him, Let the man return, and abide in his place whither thou hast appointed him, lest he go down to battle with us, and be our adversary in the battle. For in what will he please his lord better than in the heads of these men? 5. Is not he David, of whom they sang in the round dance, saying, Saul hath slain a thousand, but David ten thousand? 6. And Achish called David, and said unto him, As surely as the LORD liveth, I think thee honest, and thy going out and thy coming in with me in the army pleaseth me well, and I have not seen any evil in thee since the time that thou camest unto me unto this day: but thou pleasest not with the princes. 7. Now therefore return, and go in peace, that thou do not evil in the sight of the lords of the Philistines. 8. And David said unto Achish, What have I done, and what hast thou reproved thy servant, from the time that I was before thee until now, that I should not come and fight against the enemies of my lord the king? 9. And Achish answered and said unto David, I know it: for thou art pleasing in mine eyes, as an angel of God. But the princes of the Philistines have said, Let him not go up with us to battle. 10. Now therefore arise early in the morning, and thy master's servants that are come with thee: and when ye have risen early in the morning, that it may be light, go. 11. So David and his men rose up early, and went in the morning, and returned into the land of the Philistines. And the Philistines went up to Jezreel. Chapter 30 David is victorious against the Amalekites and divides the plunder. 1. And it came to pass on the third day, when David was come to Ziklag with his men, that the Amalekites came in at noon, and at Ziklag, and smote Ziklag, and burned it with fire; 2. And they had led away the women out of it, both small and great: but they had not killed any, but had driven them away, and gone their way. 3. And when David and his men were come to the city, he saw that it was burned with fire, and that their wives and their sons and their daughters were taken captives, 4. And David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice, and wept, until they could weep no more. 5. For David's two wives were also captives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the wife of Nabai the Carmelite. 6. And David was sore troubled: for the people would have stoned him: for all the people's souls were troubled, every man for his sons and for his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God. 7. And he said unto Abiathar the priest, Ahimelech's son, Bring me the ephod. And when Abiathar had brought the ephod unto David, 8. And David asked the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after the men of war, and shall I seize them? And he said, Pursue them, and thou shalt seize them, and shalt do salvation. 9. And David went, and the six hundred men that were with him: and when they came to the brook Besor, some stood still: 10. And David and the four hundred men pursued; but the two hundred men that stayed were too weary to go over the brook Besor. 11. And they found an Egyptian man in the field, and brought him unto David, and gave him bread, that he might eat, and watered him with water; 12. And they gave him a piece of figs, and :two pieces of raisins. And when he had eaten, his spirit came again to him: for he had eaten nothing, neither drunk water, in three days and three nights. 13. And David said unto him, Whose art thou? and whence art thou? And he said: I am an Egyptian lad, the servant of an Amalekite: and my lord hath forsaken me, because I was sick three days ago. 14. We fell upon Krethi at noon, and upon Judah at noon, and upon Caleb at noon, and burned Ziklag with fire. 15. And David said unto him, Wilt thou bring me down unto these men of war? And he said, Swear to me by God that thou wilt not kill me, nor deliver me into the hand of my lord, and I will bring thee down unto these men of war. 16. And he brought them down. And, behold, they were scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth, eating and drinking, and feasting upon all the great spoil which they had taken out of the land of the Philistines and Judah. 17. And David smote them from the morning until the evening toward the second day: and there escaped not one of them, save four hundred young men, which fell upon camels, and fled. 18. So David delivered all that the Amalekites had taken, and his two wives; 19. And lacked none, neither small nor great, neither sons, nor daughters, nor spoil, nor any thing that they had taken: David brought it all again. 20. And David took the sheep and the oxen, and drove the people before him: and they said, This is David's spoil. 21. And when David came to the two hundred men that were too weary to follow David, and had tarried by the brook Besor, they went out to meet David, and the people that were with him. And David stood by the people, and greeted them kindly. 22. Then answered they that were wicked and loose among them that went with David, and said: Because they went not with us, let nothing be given them of the spoil which we have delivered: but let every man lead his wife and his children, and go. 23. And David said, Ye shall not do so, my brethren, with that which the LORD hath given us, and hath preserved us, and delivered into our hand these men of war that came against us. 24. Who shall obey you in this? As the portion of them that go down to battle, so shall the portion of them that abide in the device be, and shall be divided alike. 25. This hath been the custom and the law in Israel from that time forward unto this day. 26. And when David was come to Ziklag, he sent of the spoil to the elders of Judah, to his friends, saying, Behold, ye have the blessing of the spoil of the enemies of the LORD; 27. Namely, to them that are at Bethel, and to them that are at Ramoth in the south day, and to them that are at Jathir, 28. To them of Aroer, to them of Siphamoth, to them of Esthemoa, 29. To them that are in Rachel, to them that are in the cities of the Jerahmeelites, to them that are in the cities of the Kenites, 30. To those of Horma, to those of Bor-asan, to those of Athah, 31. To them in Hebron, and to all the places where David walked with his men. Chapter 31 Saul's last war against the Philistines, wherein he stabbed himself. 1. And the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. 2. And the Philistines attached themselves to Saul and to his sons, and smote Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, Saul's sons. 3. And the battle was sore against Saul, and the archers smote him with bows, and he was greatly wounded of the archers. 4. And Saul said unto his armourbearer, Put forth thy sword, and thrust me therewith, lest these uncircumcised come and stab me, and make a mockery of me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. So Saul took the sword and fell on it. 5. And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword, and died with him. 6. So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armourbearer, and all his men, at the same time that day. 7. And when the men of Israel that were beyond the bottom, and that were beyond Jordan, saw that the men of Israel were fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they forsook the cities, and fled also: so the Philistines came and dwelt within. 8. And the next day the Philistines came to strip the slain, and found Saul and his three sons lying in mount Gilboa. 9. And they cut off his head, and stripped him of his weapons, and sent them abroad into the land of the Philistines, to proclaim in the house of their idols, and among the people. 10. And they put his armour in the house of Ashtaroth, but they hanged his body upon the wall of Bethsan. 11. And they that were at Jabesh in Gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, 12. And they arose, which were men of valour, and went all night, and took the dead bodies of Saul and of his sons from the wall of Bethsan, and brought them to Jabesh, and burned them there. 13. And they took their bones, and buried them under the tree of Jabesh, and fasted seven days. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Second Book of Samuel (2 Samuel) ^ Chapter 1 David's song of mourning over the death of Saul and Jonathan. 1. After the death of Saul, when David was come again from the battle of Amalek, and abode two days in Ziklag, 2. And, behold, on the third day there came a man of the host of Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head. And when he came to David, he fell to the ground, and worshipped. 3. And David said unto him, Whence comest thou? And he said unto him, Out of the host of Israel am I escaped. 4. And David said unto him, Tell me how it is. And he said, The people are fled from the battle, and much people are fallen: and Saul is dead, and Jonathan his son. 5. And David said unto the young man that told him, How knowest thou that Saul and Jonathan his son are dead? 6. And the young man that told him said: I came to mount Gilboa, and, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear, and the chariots and horsemen pursued after him. 7. And he turned, and saw me, and called unto me. And I said, Here am I. 8. And he said unto me, Who art thou? And I said unto him, I am an Amalekite. 9. And he said unto me, Come near me, and slay me: for I am afflicted round about, and my life is yet in me. 10. And I came unto him, and slew him; for I knew well that he could not live after his fall: and I took the crown from off his head, and the bracelet from off his arm, and brought it unto thee, my lord. 11. And David took hold of his garments, and rent them, and all the men that were with him. 12. And they mourned, and wept, and fasted until even, over Saul, and over Jonathan his son, and over the LORD'S people, and over the house of Israel, because they were fallen by the sword. 13. And David said unto the young man that told him, Whence art thou? And he said: I am the son of a stranger, an Amalekite. 14. And David said unto him, How art thou not afraid to lay thine hand upon the LORD'S anointed to destroy him? 15. And David said unto one of his young men, Come near, and smite him. And he smote him, and he died. 16. And David said unto him, Thy blood be upon thy head: for thy mouth hath spoken against thee, saying: I have slain the LORD'S anointed. 17. And David lamented this lamentation over Saul, and over Jonathan his son. 18. And commanded that the children of Judah should be taught the bow. Behold, it is written in the book of the righteous: 19. The noblest of Israel are slain in thy high places. How are the mighty fallen! 20. Declare it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the street of Asklon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised be glad. 21. Ye mountains of Gilboa, let there be no dew, neither let there be rain upon you, neither let there be any ground for heave offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is cut off, the shield of Saul, as though it were not anointed with oil. 22. The bow of Jonathan hath never failed, and the sword of Saul hath never returned empty of the blood of the slain, and of the fat of the mighty. 23. Saul and Jonathan, lovely and sweet in their life, are not parted in death; lighter than eagles, and stronger than lions. 24. Ye daughters of Israel, weep for Saul, who clothed you cleanly with raisin paint, and adorned you with jewels of gold upon your garments. 25. How are the mighty fallen in the battle! Jonathan is slain upon thy high places. 26. I am sorry for thee, my brother Jonathan. I have had great joy and delight in thee; thy love hath been more strange unto me than woman's love is. 27. How have the heroes fallen, and the valiant perished! (2 Samuel) Chapter 2 Anointing of David as king. Ishbosheth's rebellion. 1. And it came to pass after this, that David asked the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither? And he said, To Hebron. 2. So David went with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite. 3. And David brought up the men that were with him, every man with his household, and dwelt in the cities of Hebron. 4. And the men of Judah came and anointed David there king over the house of Judah. And it was told David that they of Jabesh in Gilead had buried Saul, 5. And he sent messengers unto them, saying, Blessed be ye unto the LORD, that ye have shewed such mercy unto your LORD Saul, and have buried him. 6. The LORD therefore have mercy upon you, and faithfulness; and I will do you good also, because ye have done these things. 7. Let your hands therefore be stayed, and be joyful: for your lord Saul is dead, and the house of Judah have anointed me king over them. 8. And Abner the son of Ner, which was captain of Saul's host, took Ishbosheth Saul's son, and brought him to Mahanaim; 9. And made him king over Gilead, and over Asuri, and over Jezreel, and over Ephraim, and over Benjamin, and over all Israel. 10. And Ishbosheth Saul's son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel: and he reigned two years. But the house of Judah kept David. 11. And the time that David reigned in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months. 12. And Abner the son of Ner went out of the army to Gibeon, he and the servants of Ishbosheth the son of Saul; 13. And Joab the son of Zeruiah went out with the servants of David, and met together at the pool of Gibeon, and lay down these on this side of the pool, and those on that side. 14. And Abner said unto Joab, Let the lads arise, and play before us. And Joab said, It is well. 15. And they arose, and went their number, twelve of Benjamin, for the part of Ishbosheth Saul's son, and twelve of the servants of David. 16. And every man took the other by the head, and thrust in his side his sword, and fell together. Wherefore the place is called: Helkath-hazurim, which is at Gibeon. 17. And there was a very sore battle that day. And Abner and the men of Israel were smitten before the servants of David. 18. And there were three sons of Zeruiah there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. And Asahel was light of foot, as a deer in the field; 19. And he pursued after Abner, and departed not to the right hand or to the left hand of Abner. 20. And Abner turned, and said, Art thou Asahel? And he said, Yea. 21. And Abner said unto him, Lift thee up either on thy right hand, or on thy left; and take for thee one of the lads, and take him his armour. But Asahel would not depart from him. 22. And Abner said unto Asahel, Lift thee up from me. Why wilt thou that I should smite thee to the ground? and how shall I lift up my face before Joab thy brother? 23. But he refused to depart. And Abner thrust him behind him with a spear into his belly, and the spear went out behind him: and he fell there, and died before him. And whosoever came to the place where Asahel lay dead stood still. 24. And Joab and Abishai pursued after Abner until the going down of the sun. And they came to the hill of Amma, which is before Giah, by the way of the wilderness of Gibeon, 25. And the children of Benjamin gathered themselves together after Abner, and became a company, and stood upon the top of a hill. 26. And Abner called unto Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour without end? Knowest thou not that hereafter there shall be more mourning? How long wilt thou not tell the people, that they may depart from their brethren? 27. And Joab said, As God liveth, if thou hadst said so this morning, the people would have desisted every man from his brother. 28. And Joab blew the trumpet, and all the people stood still, and pursued after Israel no more, neither fought they any more. 29. And Abner and his men went all that night over the plain, and passed over Jordan, and walked through all Bithron, and came into the camp. 30. And Joab turned from Abner, and gathered all the people together: and there lacked of David's servants nineteen men, and Asahel. 31. But the servants of David had smitten among Benjamin and the men of Abner, that three hundred and threescore men were left dead. 32. And they raised up Asahel, and buried him in his father's sepulchre in Bethlehem: and Joab and his men went all night, that the light might break upon them. And the light was kindled in Hebron. (2 Samuel) Chapter 3 Abner killed by Joab. 1. And there was a long battle between the house of Saul and the house of David. And David went and increased; and the house of Saul went and decreased. 2. And children were born unto David in Hebron: his firstborn son Amnon of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; 3. the other: Chileab of Abigail, Nabal's wife, the Carmelite; the third: Absalom the son of Maachah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur; 4. The fourth Adonijah the son of Hagith; the fifth: Saphatiah the son of Abital; 5. The sixth, Jethream of Egla, David's wife. These were born unto David in Hebron. 6. And it came to pass, when there was war between the house of Saul and the house of David, that Abner strengthened the house of Saul. 7. And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah. And Ishbosheth said unto Abner, Why layest thou with my father's concubine? 8. And Abner was very wroth at these words of Ishbosheth, and said, Am I then a dog's head, that I do mercy against Judah to the house of Saul thy father, and to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into David's hand? And thou reckonest iniquity unto me this day for a woman? 9. God do unto Abner this, and that, if I do not do as the LORD David sware, 10. That the kingdom might be taken from the house of Saul, and that the throne of David might be established over Israel and over Judah from Dan even to Beersheba. 11. And again he could not answer him a word, for he was afraid. 12. And Abner sent messengers unto David for himself, saying, Whose land is this? And he said, Make thy covenant with me: behold, my hand shall be with thee, that I may return unto thee all Israel. 13. And he said, Well, I will make a covenant with thee. But this I pray thee, that thou see not my face; but bring thou first to me Michal Saul's daughter, when thou comest to see my face. 14. And David sent messengers unto Ishbosheth the son of Saul, saying, Give me Michal my wife, whom I have entrusted to me with an hundred foreskins of the Philistines. 15. And Ishbosheth sent, and took them of the man Partiell the son of Lai. 16. And her husband went with her, and wept behind her unto Bahurim. And Abner said unto him, Return, and go. And he returned. 17. And Abner spake unto the elders of Israel, saying: Ye were long ago desirous of David, that he should reign over you. 18. Now therefore do it: for the LORD said of David, I will deliver my people Israel by the hand of David my servant out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies. 19. And Abner spake in the ears of Benjamin, and went to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that was good in Israel, and in all the house of Benjamin. 20. And it came to pass, when Abner was come to David to Hebron, and with him twenty men, that David made them a feast. 21. And Abner said unto David, I will arise, and go, and gather all Israel unto my lord the king, and they shall make a covenant with thee, that thou mayest be king, as thy soul desireth. So David sent Abner away, and he went in peace. 22. And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came from the men of war, bringing with them a great spoil. Now Abner was not with David in Hebron, but had sent him away, that he might go in peace. 23. And it came to pass, when Joab and all the host were come with him, that it was told him that Abner the son of Ner was come to the king, and that he had sent him away in peace. 24. And Joab went in unto the king, and said, What hast thou done? Behold, Abner is come unto thee: why hast thou sent him away from thee, that he is departed? 25! Knowest thou not Abner the son of Ner? For he is come to persuade thee, that he may know thy going out, and thy coming in, and know all that thou doest. 26. And when Joab was gone out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, to fetch him again from Borhazira: and David knew it not. 27. And it came to pass, when Abner was come again to Hebron, that Joab brought him into the midst of the gate to speak unto him privily, and there he smote him in the belly, and he died, because of the blood of Asahel his brother. 28. And it came to pass afterward, when David heard it, that he said, I am guiltless, and my kingdom before the LORD for ever, because of the blood of Abner the son of Ner. 29. And it shall fall upon the head of Joab, and upon all his father's house; and it shall not cease in the house of Joab, which hath a flow of pus, and leprosy, and walketh by the staff, and falleth by the sword, and lacketh bread. 30. So Joab and Abishai his brother slew Abner, because he slew Asahel their brother in the battle at Gibeon. 31. And David said unto Joab, and to all the people that were with him, Rend your clothes, and gird sackcloth about you, and bear grief for Abner. And the king went after the coffin. 32. And when they buried Abner in Hebron, the king lifted up his voice, and wept at the sepulchre of Abner; and all the people wept also. 33. And the king bewailed Abner, saying, Abner died not, as a fool dieth. 34. Thy hands are not bound, neither are thy feet put in fetters: thou art fallen, as one falleth before wicked men. Then all the people wept for him still more. 35. And it came to pass, when all the people were come in to eat with David, while it was yet high day, that David sware, saying, God do this to me, and that, where I taste bread, or any thing, before the sun go down. 36. And all the people knew it, and all the good things that the king did pleased them in the sight of all the people. 37. And all the people and all Israel perceived that day that it was not of the king that Abner the son of Ner was slain. 38. And the king said unto his servants: Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel? 39. But I am yet tender, and an anointed king. But the men, the children of Zeruiah, are grievous unto me. The LORD reward him that doeth evil according to his wickedness. (2 Samuel) Chapter 4 Isboseth is murdered and smelled by David. 1. And when Saul's son heard that Abner was dead in Hebron, his hands were loosed, and all Israel were afraid. 2. And there were two men captains over the warriors among the sons of Saul; the name of the one was Baena, and the name of the other Rechob, sons of Rimon the Berothite, of the children of Benjamin. For Beroth also was reckoned among Benjamin. - · 3. And the Berothites fled to Gethaim, and were strangers there unto this day. 4. And Jonathan the son of Saul had a son that was lame of his feet: and he was five years old when the cry of Saul and Jonathan came out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and as she hasted and fled, he fell, and went lame: and his name was Mephibosheth. 5. So the sons of Rimon the Berothite, Rechob and Baena, went, and came to the house of Ishbosheth, when the day was hottest; and he lay in his bed at noon. 6. And they came into the house to take wheat: and they pricked him in the stomach, and escaped. 7. For when they were come into the house, he lay upon his bed in his bedchamber, and they smote him dead, and cut off his head, and took his head, and went by the way of the plain all night. 8. And they brought the head of Ishbosheth unto David to Hebron, and said unto the king, Behold, the head of Ishbosheth the son of Saul, thine enemy, which strove after thy soul: the LORD hath smelled my lord the king this day upon Saul, and upon his seed. 9. And David said unto them, As the LORD liveth, he hath delivered my soul out of all my affliction, 10. And I took him that told me, saying, Saul is dead, thinking that he was a good messenger: and I slew him in Ziklag, to whom I should give a messenger's fee. 11. And these wicked men slew a righteous man in his house upon his bed. Yea, shall I not require the blood of your hands, and do you out of the earth? 12. And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up by the pool of Hebron. And they took the head of Ishbosheth, and buried it in Abner's sepulchre at Hebron. (2 Samuel) Chapter 5 David's second anointing, happy state, and twofold victory. 1. And all the tribes of Israel came to David to Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. 2. And also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou leddest out and broughtest in Israel. Thus hath the LORD said unto thee, Thou shalt shepherd my people Israel, and shalt be a duke over Israel. 3. And all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron. And king David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the LORD: and they anointed David king over Israel. 4. David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. 5. In Hebron he reigned seven years and six months over Judah: but in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years over all Israel and Judah. 6. And the king went with his men to Jerusalem against the Jebusites that dwelt in the land. And they said unto David, Thou shalt not come in hither, but the blind and the lame shall carry thee away. This is what they meant, that David would not come in. 7. But David took the castle of Zion, which is David's city. 8. And David said the same day, He that smiteth the Jebusites, and taketh the gutters, the lame, and the blind, to whom the soul of David is hostile. Therefore they say, Let not the blind and the lame come into the house. 9. So David dwelt in the castle, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from Millo, and within. 10. And David went and received, and the LORD God of hosts was with him. 11. And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers unto David, and cedar trees for a wall, and carpenters and stonemasons, to build David an house. 12. And David perceived that the LORD had confirmed him to be king over Israel, and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel. 13. And David took more wives and concubines at Jerusalem, after he was come from Hebron: and there were born unto him more sons and daughters. 14. And these are the names of them that were born unto him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, 15. Jebehar, Elisua, Nepheg, Japhia, 16. Elisama, Eliada, Eliphalet. 17. And when the Philistines heard that David was anointed king over Israel, they all went up to seek David. And when David heard of it, he went down into a castle. 18. But the Philistines came and settled in the valley of Rephaim. 19. And David asked the LORD, saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines, and wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up, and I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand. 20. And David came to Baalprazim, and smote them there, and said, The LORD hath torn mine enemies from before me as the waters do tear. Therefore the name of that place was called Baalprazim. 21. And they left their idol there. And David and his men lifted them up. 22. And the Philistines went up again, and settled in the valley of Rephaim. 23. And David inquired of the LORD, and the LORD said, Thou shalt not go up; but come behind them, that thou mayest come upon them over against the mulberry trees. 24. And it shall come to pass, when thou shalt hear the sound of the tops of the mulberry trees, that thou shalt beware: for the LORD is gone out before thee to smite the host of the Philistines. 25. And David did as the LORD commanded him, and smote the Philistines from Geba until they came to Gaser. (2 Samuel) Chapter 6 David's dance of joy upon picking up the Ark of the Covenant. 1. And David gathered again all the young men of Israel, thirty thousand. 2. And he arose, and went with all the people that were with him of the inhabitants of Judah, to bring up thence the ark of God, which is called, The name of the LORD of hosts dwelleth thereon above the cherubims. 3. And they brought the ark of God in a new chariot, and took it out of the house of Abinadab, which dwelt at Gibeah. And Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drove the new chariot. 4. And when they brought him forth with the ark of God out of the house of Abinadab, which dwelt in Gibeah, Ahio went before the ark, 5. And David and all the house of Israel played before the LORD with all manner of strings of fir wood, and with harps, and psalteries, and timbrels, and cymbals. 6. And when they were come to the threshingfloor of Nachon, Uzzah took hold, and kept the ark of God: for the oxen stood by. 7. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah, and God smote him there for his iniquity, and he died there by the ark of God. 8. And David was grieved that the LORD had made such a breach in Uzzah: and he called the name of that place Perez-uzah unto this day. 9. And David feared the LORD of that day, and said, How shall the ark of the LORD come unto me? 10. And would not suffer them to be brought unto him into the city of David, but brought them into the house of Obededom the Gittite. 11. And it came to pass, when the ark of the LORD abode in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months, that the LORD blessed him, and all his house. 12. And it was told king David, saying, The LORD hath blessed the house of Obededom, and all that he had, because of the ark of God. And he went and brought up the ark of God out of the house of Obededom into the city of David with joy. 13. And as they went along with the ark of the LORD six courses, they sacrificed an ox and a fat sheep. 14. And David danced before the LORD with all his might, and was girded with a linen ephod. 15. And David and all Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouting and with trumpets. 16. And when the ark of the LORD was come into the city of David, Michal Saul's daughter looked through the window, and saw king David leaping and dancing before the LORD, and despised him in her heart. 17. And when they had brought in the ark of the LORD, they set it in the midst of the tabernacle which David had pitched for them. And David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. 18. And when David had offered the burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of hosts. 19. And he divided out of all the people, and out of the multitude of Israel, both man and woman, to every man a cake of bread, and a piece of flesh, and a spoonful of wine. And all the people returned every man to his house. 20. And when David was come again to bless his house, Michal Saul's daughter went out to meet him, and said, How glorious hath the king of Israel been this day, that he hath uncovered himself before the handmaidens of his servants, as the loose men uncover themselves! 21. And David said unto Michal, I will play before the LORD, which hath chosen me before thy father, and before all his house, to command me to be ruler over the LORD'S people, over Israel. 22. And I will be even less than thus: and I will be lowly in mine eyes, and will become honourable with the handmaidens of whom thou hast spoken. 23. But Michal Saul's daughter had no child until the day of her death. (2 Samuel) Chapter 7 David gets the promise of the Messiah when he is willing to build a temple. 1. Now when the king sat in his house, and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies round about, 2. And he said unto Nathan the prophet, Behold, I dwell in a house of cedars, and the ark of God dwelleth under the carpets. 3. And Nathan said unto the king: Go thy way; all that thou hast in thine heart do: for the LORD is with thee. 4. And the word of the LORD came unto Nathan by night, saying: 5. Go and say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD, Shall thou build me an house to dwell in? 6. For I have not dwelt in any house since the day that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt unto this day: but I have walked in the tabernacle and in the tabernacle. 7. Whithersoever I walked with all the children of Israel, have I spoken with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an house of cedar? 8. Now therefore thus shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I have taken thee from the sheepcote, that thou shouldest be ruler over my people Israel; 9. And I have been with thee whithersoever thou hast gone, and have cut off all thine enemies from before thee, and have made thee a great name, as the name of the great men that are in the earth. 10. And I will set a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, and they shall dwell there, and shall go no more astray; neither shall the children of wickedness throng them any more, as at the first, 11. And from that time I have set judges over my people Israel, and will give thee rest from all thine enemies. And the LORD declare unto thee, that the LORD will make thee an house. 12. And it shall come to pass, when thy days are expired, that thou shalt lie down with thy fathers, that I will raise up thy seed after thee, which shall come forth out of thy womb, and I will establish his kingdom. 13. He shall build an house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom for ever. 14. I will be his father, and he shall be my son. And if he do iniquity, I will punish him with the rod of men, and with the blows of the children of men; 15. But my mercy shall not be taken away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I took away from before thee. 16. But thy house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee, and thy throne shall be established for ever. 17. For Nathan had spoken all these words, and all this vision to David, 18. And David the king came and stood before the LORD, and said, Who am I, O LORD, and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? 19. Thou hast not hearkened unto these things, O Lord, O Lord, but hast spoken to the house of thy servant of things to come. This is the manner of a man that is God the LORD. 20. And what shall David speak more unto thee? Thou knowest thy servant, O Lord, O Lord! 21. For thy word's sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou done all these great things, to make them known unto thy servant. 22. Wherefore also thou art greatly esteemed, O LORD God: for there is none like thee, neither is there any God but thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 23. For where is there a nation in the earth like thy people Israel, for whom God went to redeem a people unto him, and to make him a name, and to do such great and terrible things in thy land before thy people, whom thou hast redeemed unto thee from Egypt, from the heathen, and from their gods? 24. And thou hast prepared for thee thy people Israel, for thy people for ever: and thou, O LORD, art become their God. 25. Now therefore, O LORD GOD, confirm the word for ever, which thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, and do as thou hast spoken: 26. And thy name shall be magnified for ever; and it shall be said, The LORD of hosts is the God of Israel. And the house of thy servant David shall stand before thee. 27. For thou, O LORD of hosts, O God of Israel, hast opened the ear of thy servant, saying, I will build thee an house. Therefore thy servant hath found his heart to pray this prayer unto thee. 28. Now, O LORD, O LORD, thou art GOD, and thy words shall be truth. Thou hast spoken these good things concerning thy servant. 29. Now therefore lift up and bless the house of thy servant, that it may be before thee for ever: for thou, O LORD, hast spoken it: and with thy blessing shall thy servant's house be blessed for ever. (2 Samuel) Chapter 8 David triumphs and orders the offices. 1. And it came to pass afterward, that David smote the Philistines, and weakened them, and took the bridle of the Philistines' hand. 2. And he smote Moab to the ground, so that he put two parts to death, and left one part alive. So the Moabites became servile unto David, that they brought him gifts. 3. And David smote Hadarezer the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, when he went to recover his power by the river Phrath. 4. And David took of them a thousand and seven hundred horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen; and he crippled all the chariots, and left an hundred chariots. 5. And the Syrians came from Damascus to help Hadarezer king of Zobah: and David smote the Syrians twenty and two thousand men. 6. And he put people in Damascus in Syria. So Syria was servile unto David, that they brought him gifts. For the LORD helped David whithersoever he went. 7. And David took the shields of gold that were Hadarezer's servants, and brought them to Jerusalem. 8. But from Betah and Berothai, the cities of Hadarezer, king David took almost much brass. 9. And it came to pass, when Toi king of Hemath heard that David had smitten all the power of Hadarezer, that he was smitten, 10. And he sent Jehoram his son unto David, to salute him, and to bless him, because he had fought against Hadarezer, and smitten him; (for Toi had fought with Hadarezer:) and he had with him jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and jewels of brass, 11. Which king David also sanctified unto the LORD, with the silver and gold which he sanctified unto the LORD out of all the heathen which he brought in among him: 12. Of Syria, and of Moab, and of the children of Ammon, and of the Philistines, and of Amalek, and of the spoil of Hadarezer the son of Rehob king of Zobah. 13. And David made him a name, when he returned, and smote the Syrians in the valley of salt, eighteen thousand. 14. And he put people in all Edom, and all Edom was subject unto David: for the LORD helped David whithersoever he went. 15. So David reigned over all Israel; and he established righteousness and justice among all the people. 16. And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was chancellor; 17. Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were priests: Seraiah was a scribe; 18. Benaiah the son of Jehoioda was over the Krethi and Plethi: and the sons of David were priests. (2 Samuel) Chapter 9 Good deed of David against Mephiboseth 1. And David said: Is there any left of the house of Saul, that I should show him mercy for Jonathan's sake? 2. And there was a servant of the house of Saul, whose name was Ziba; and they called him to David. And the king said unto him, Art thou Ziba? And he said, Yea, thy servant. 3. And the king said: Is there any other of the house of Saul, that I may do God's mercy upon him? And Ziba said unto the king: There is yet a son of Jonathan, lame of foot. 4. And the king said unto him, Where is he? And Ziba said unto the king, Behold, he is at Lodabar, in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel. 5. And king David sent and fetched him from Lodabar, of the house of Machir the son of Ammiel. 6. And when Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan the son of Saul came to David, he fell on his face, and worshipped. And David said, Mephibosheth. And he said, Here am I thy servant. 7. And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will shew thee mercy for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father: and thou shalt eat bread daily at my table. 8. And he worshipped, and said, Who am I thy servant, that thou turnest to a dead dog, as I am? 9. And the king called Ziba Saul's son, and said unto him, All that was Saul's, and all his house, have I given unto thy master's son. 10. Now therefore work his field, thou, and thy children, and thy servants, and bring it in, that it may be thy lord's son's bread, that he may feed himself: but Mephibosheth thy lord's son shall eat bread daily at my table. And Ziba had fifteen sons, and twenty servants. 11. And Ziba said unto the king: All that my lord the king hath commanded his servant, so shall his servant do. And Mephibosheth eat upon my table, as the king's children eat one. 12. And Mephibosheth had a little son, whose name was Micah. And all that dwelt in the house of Ziba served Mephibosheth. 13. And Mephibosheth dwelt at Jerusalem, because he did eat daily at the king's table: and he limped with both his feet. (2 Samuel) Chapter 10 The Ammonites mock David's servants and are defeated. 1. And it came to pass after this, that the king of the children of Ammon died; and Hanon his son reigned in his stead. 2. And David said, I will shew mercy unto Hanon the son of Naha, as his father shewed mercy unto me. And he sent and comforted him by his servants concerning his father. And the servants of David came into the land of the children of Ammon, 3. And the mighty men of the children of Ammon said unto Hanon their lord, Thinkest thou that David hath honoured thy father in thy sight, in that he hath sent comforters unto thee? Thinkest thou not that therefore he hath sent his servants unto thee, to search the city, and to search it, and to return? 4. And Hanon took David's servants, and shaved half their beards, and cut off half their garments, even to the girdle, and sent them away. 5. And when it was told David, he sent to meet them: for the men were greatly defiled. And the king said unto them, Tarry at Jericho until your beard be grown, and then come again. 6. And when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before David, they sent, and dined with the Syrians of the house of Rehob, and with the Syrians of Zobah, twenty thousand footmen, and of king Maachah a thousand men, and of Ishob twelve thousand men. 7. And when David heard it, he sent Joab with all the host of the men of war. 8. And the children of Ammon went out, and prepared themselves to battle at the gate. And the Syrians of Zobah, and of Rehob, and of Ishob, and of Maachah, were alone in the field. 9. And it came to pass, when Joab saw that the battle was set upon him, both before and behind, that he chose out of all the young men of Israel, and armed himself against the Syrians. 10. And the rest of the people he put under the hand of Abishai his brother, to make ready against the children of Ammon; 11. And said, If the Syrians outnumber me, come to my help: but if the children of Ammon outnumber thee, I will come to thy help. 12. Be of good cheer, and let us be strong for our people, and for the cities of our God: but let the LORD do that which is right in his sight. 13. And Joab came near with the people that were with him to fight against the Syrians: and they fled before him. 14. And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians fled, they fled from Abishai, and entered into the city. So Joab returned from the children of Ammon, and came to Jerusalem. 15. And when the Syrians saw that they were smitten before Israel, they came in multitude. 16. And Hadarezer sent, and brought out the Syrians that were beyond the river, and brought in their force: and Shobach the captain of Hadarezer's host went before them. 17. And when it was told David, he gathered all Israel together, and passed over Jordan, and came to Helam. And the Syrians armed themselves against David to fight with him. 18. And the Syrians fled before Israel: and David slew of the Syrians seven hundred chariots, and forty thousand horsemen: and he smote Shobach the captain of the host, and he died there. 19. And when the kings that were under Hadarezer saw that they were smitten before Israel, they made peace with Israel, and became subject unto them. And the Syrians feared to help the children of Ammon more. (2 Samuel) Chapter 11 David's adultery and manslaughter. 1. And it came to pass, when the year was expired, at the time that kings go forth, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel, to destroy the children of Ammon, and to occupy Rabbah: but David abode at Jerusalem. 2. And it came to pass about even, that David arose from his couch, and went up to the roof of the king's house, and saw a woman washing herself from the roof: and the woman was very beautiful in form. 3. And David sent and asked for the woman, saying, Is not this Bathsheba the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? 4. And David sent messengers, and fetched her. And when she was come in unto him, he slept with her. And she purged herself from her uncleanness, and returned unto her house. 5. And the woman conceived, and sent and told David, saying, I am with child. 6. And David sent unto Joab, saying, Send unto me Uriah the Hittite. And Joab sent Uriah unto David. 7. And when Uriah came to him, David asked if it were well with Joab, and with the people, and with the battle. 8. And David said unto Uriah, Go down to thine house, and wash thy feet. And when Uriah was gone out to the king's house, he followed him after the king's present. 9. And Uriah lay down to sleep at the door of the king's house, where all the servants of his lord lay, and went not down into his house. 10. And it was told David, saying, Uriah went not down to his house: and David said unto him, Didst thou not come over the field? Why wentest thou not down to thine own house? 11. And Uriah said unto David, The ark, and Israel, and Judah, dwell in tents; and Joab my lord, and my lord's servants, lie in the field: and shall I go into mine house to eat and to drink, and to lie with my wife? As thou livest, and as thy soul liveth, I will not do it. 12. And David said unto Uriah, Stay here this day, and tomorrow I will send thee away. So Uriah abode at Jerusalem by day, and by night. 13. And David invited him to eat and drink before him, and made him drunken. And it came to pass in the evening, that he went out to lie down in his bed with his master's servants, and went not down to his house. 14. In the morning David wrote a letter unto Joab, and sent it by Uriah. 15. And he wrote thus in the epistle, Set Uriah in the battle, where it is hardest, and turn aside behind him, that he may be slain and die. 16. And it came to pass, when Joab was round about the city, that he set Uriah in the place where he knew that there were men of war. 17. And when the men of the city came out, and fought against Joab, some of the people of David's servants fell, and Uriah the Hittite died also. 18. And Joab sent, and told David all the bargain of the battle. 19. And he commanded the messenger, saying, When thou hast made an end of all the bargain of the battle with the king 20. And behold, the king is wroth, and saith unto thee, Why have ye come so nigh unto the city to battle? know ye not how to shoot from the wall? 21. Who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? Did not a woman cast a piece of a mill upon him from the wall, and he died in Thebez? Wherefore have ye come nigh unto the wall? then shalt thou say, Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also. 22. And the messenger went and came, and told David all things, wherefore Joab had sent him. 23. And the messenger said unto David, The men rose up against us, and fell out unto us into the field: and we were with them unto the gate of the gate. 24. And the archers shot from the wall at thy servants, and slew some of the king's servants: and Uriah thy servant the Hittite is dead also. 25. And David said unto the messenger: Thus shalt thou say unto Joab, Let not this thing offend thee: for now the sword devoureth this, now that. Stop the battle against the city, that thou mayest break it; and be of good cheer. 26. And when Uriah's wife heard that Uriah her husband was dead, she mourned for her landlord. 27. And when she had mourned, David sent and took her into his house, and she became his wife, and bare him a son. But the deed which David did displeased the LORD. (2 Samuel) Chapter 12 Nathan's sermon on repentance. 1. And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And when he was come unto him, he said unto him, There were two men in one city, the one rich, and the other poor. 2. the rich man had a great many sheep and oxen; 3. But the poor man had nothing, save one little lamb, which he had bought: and he nourished it, and it waxed great with him, and with his children at the same time; it did eat of his meat, and drank of his cup, and slept in his bosom; and he kept it as a daughter. 4. And when a stranger came to the rich man, he spared to take of his flocks and of his herds, to dress for the stranger that came to him: and he took the poor man's sheep, and dressed them for the man that came to him. 5. And David was wroth with great wrath against the man, and said unto Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this is the child of death. 6. And he shall pay the sheep fourfold, because he hath done this thing, and hath not spared it. 7. And Nathan said unto David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over Israel, and have delivered thee out of the hand of Saul; 8. And I have given thee the house of thy master, and his wives into thy bosom; and I have given thee the house of Israel and Judah: and if that be not enough, I will add this and that. 9. Wherefore then hast thou despised the word of the LORD, to do this evil in his sight? Thou hast slain Uriah the Hittite with the sword; thou hast taken his wife to wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon. 10. Now therefore the sword shall not depart from thine house for ever, because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife. 11. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and will take thy wives before thine eyes, and will give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall sleep with thy wives in the bright sun. 12. For thou hast done it secretly: but I will do it before all Israel, and before the sun. 13. And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, So hath the LORD taken away thy sin; thou shalt not die. 14. But because thou hast blasphemed the enemies of the LORD by this thing, the son that is born unto thee shall surely die. 15. And Nathan went home. And the LORD smote the child that Uriah's wife bare unto David, that he died. 16. And David besought GOD for the babe, and fasted; and went in, and lay upon the ground all night. 17. And the elders of his house arose, and would have lifted him up from the earth: but he would not, neither did he eat with them. 18. And on the seventh day the child died. And the servants of David feared to tell him that the child was dead. For they thought: Behold, when the child was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he hearkened not unto our voice: how much more shall it hurt him, if we say, The child is dead? 19. And when David saw that his servants spake softly, and perceived that the child was dead, he said unto his servants: Is the child dead? And they said: Yes. 20. And David arose from the earth, and washed himself, and anointed himself, and put on other raiment, and went into the house of the LORD, and worshipped. And when he was come home again, he set him bread, and did eat. 21. And his servants said unto him, What is this thing that thou doest? When the child was alive, thou fastedst and wept; but now that he is dead, risest thou and eatest? 22. And he said, For the child I fasted, and wept when he was alive: for I thought: Who knoweth whether the LORD will have mercy on me, that the child may live? 23. But now that it is dead, what shall I fast? Can I fetch it again? I will go to him, but he will not come to me again. 24. And when David had comforted Bathsheba his wife, he went in unto her, and slept with her. And she bare a son, and called his name Solomon. And the LORD loved him. 25. And he put him under the hand of Nathan the prophet, who called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD. 26. And Joab fought against Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and took the king's city. 27. And he sent messengers unto David, saying, I have fought against Rabbah, and have gained the city of waters. 28. Now therefore take ye the remnant of the people, and besiege the city, and take it, lest I take it, and I have the name thereof. 29. So David took all the people together, and went and fought against Rabbah, and took them. 30. And they took the crown of their king from off his head, which weighed a talent of gold, and precious stones, and was set upon David's head: and he brought forth out of the city much spoil. 31. And he brought out the people that were within, and put them under saws of iron, and under prongs of iron, and under wedges of iron, and burned them in brickkilns. So did he to all the cities of the children of Ammon. Then David and all the people returned to Jerusalem. (2 Samuel) Chapter 13 The incestuous Amnon is murdered by Absalom's servants. 1. And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose name was Tamar: and Amnon the son of David loved her. 2. And Amnon feigned himself sick because of Tamar his sister. For she was a virgin, and it seemed hard unto Amnon that he should do her any hurt. 3. And Amnon had a friend, whose name was Jonadab, the son of Simea David's brother: and the same Jonadab was a very wise man. 4. And he said unto him, Why growest thou lean, O king's son, from day to day? wilt thou not tell me? And Amnon said unto him, I have loved Tamar my brother Absalom's sister. 5. And Jonadab said unto him, Lie thee down upon thy bed, and make thee sick. And it shall come to pass, when thy father is come to look upon thee, that thou shalt say unto him, Let my sister Tamar come, that she may suck me, and make a meal before me, that I may watch, and eat of her hand. 6. So Amnon lay down, and was sick. And when the king came to see him, Amnon said unto the king: Let my sister Thamar come, that she may make a vegetable or two before me, and I may eat of her hand. 7. And David sent to Tamar to the house, saying, Go to the house of Amnon thy brother, and make him meat. 8. And Tamar went to the house of Amnon her brother; and he lay in bed. And she took a dough, and kneaded it, and soothed it before his eyes, and cooked him a vegetable. 9. And she took the dish, and poured it out before him: but he refused to eat. And Amnon said, Let every man go out from me. And every man went out from him. 10. And Amnon said unto Tamar, Bring the meat into the chamber, that I may eat of thine hand. And Tamar took the meat which she had made, and brought it into the chamber unto Amnon her brother. 11. And when she had brought it to him to eat, he took hold of her, and said unto her, Come hither, my sister, sleep with me. 12. And she said unto him, Not, my brother, weaken me not, for so one is not in Israel; do not such foolishness. 13. Where will I go with my shame? And thou shalt be like the fools of Israel. But speak unto the king, and he shall not deny me thee. 14. But he would not obey her, and overpowered her, and weakened her, and slept with her. 15. And Amnon was exceeding sorry for her, because the hatred was greater than the love was before. And Amnon said unto her, Arise, and be lifted up. 16. And she said unto him, This evil is greater than the other which thou hast done unto me, to cast me out. But he hearkened not unto her voice, 17. But called unto his lad that was his servant, and said, Drive this one out from me, and shut the door after her. 18. And she had on a coat of many colours: for the king's daughters wore such coats, because they were virgins. And when his servant had driven her out, and shut the door behind her, 19. And Thamar cast ashes upon her head, and rent the coat of many colours that she had on, and put her hand upon her head, and went and cried. 20. And Absalom her brother said unto her: Hath thy brother Amnon been with thee? Now therefore, my sister, hold thy peace; it is thy brother, and take not the matter so much to heart. So Thamar abode alone in Absalom her brother's house. 21. And when king David heard all these things, he was very wroth. But Absalom spake not unto Amnon, neither evil nor good. 22. And Absalom was grieved with Amnon, because he had weakened Tamar his sister. 23. And Absalom had shearers in Baal-hazor, which is under Ephraim, about two years: and Absalom invited all the king's sons. 24. And he came to the king, and said, Behold, thy servant hath shearers: let the king and his servants go with his servant. 25. And the king said unto Absalom, Not so, my son, let us not all go, lest we trouble thee. And when he had urged him, yet he would not go, but blessed him. 26. And Absalom said, Shall not my brother Amnon go with us? And the king said unto him, Why should he go with thee? 27. And Absalom constrained him, that he should leave Amnon and all the king's sons with him. 28. And Absalom commanded his sons, saying, Behold, when Amnon is well pleased with the wine, and I say unto you, Smite Amnon, and slay him, that ye fear not: for I have commanded you; be of good cheer, and be fresh. 29. So the sons of Absalom did unto Amnon as Absalom commanded them. And all the king's sons arose, and every man sat upon his mouth, and fled. 30. And while they were yet in the way, the rumour came before David, that Absalom had slain all the king's sons, that there was not one of them left. 31. And the king arose, and rent his clothes, and lay upon the ground; and all his servants that sat about him rent their clothes. 32. And Jonadab the son of Simea David's brother answered and said, My lord think not that all the lads the king's children are dead; but Amnon is dead to all. For Absalom hath kept it with him from the day that he weakened Tamar his sister. 33. Now therefore, my lord the king, take not this to heart, that all the king's children are dead; but Amnon only is dead. 34. And Absalom fled. And the lad that was in the way lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, a great multitude came one after another by the way of the side of the mountain. 35. And Jonadab said unto the king, Behold, the king's children are come: as thy servant hath said, so it is come to pass. 36. And when he had spoken, behold, the king's sons came and lifted up their voice, and wept. And the king and all his servants wept very sore. 37. And Absalom fled, and went unto Talmai the son of Ammihud king of Geshur. And he mourned for his son all the days of his life. 38. And Absalom fled, and went to Geshur, and was there three years. 39. And king David ceased from going out against Absalom: for he was comforted because of Amnon, because he was dead. (2 Samuel) Chapter 14 Absalom finds mercy through the intercession of the woman of Thekoa. 1. And Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king's heart was against Absalom. 2. And he sent to Thekoa, and fetched thence a wise woman, and said unto her, Bear sorrow, and put on garments of sorrow, and anoint thee not with oil; but be thou as a woman that hath borne sorrow a long time for a dead man. 3. And thou shalt go in unto the king, and speak unto him thus and thus. And Joab gave her charge what she should speak. 4. And when the woman of Thekoa would have spoken unto the king, she fell upon her face to the earth, and worshipped, saying, Help me, O king. 5. And the king said unto her, What is the matter with thee? She said: I am a widow, a woman that mourneth, and my husband is dead; 6. And thy handmaid had two sons, which quarreled together in the field: and there being no saviour, one smote the other, and slew him. 7. And, behold, all the friends of thy handmaid rise up, and say, Deliver him that smote his brother, that we may kill him for the soul of his brother whom he slew, and destroy the heir also: and we will quench my spark that is left, that there shall not be left to my husband a name, nor any thing upon the earth. 8. And the king said unto the woman, Go home, and I will command for thee. 9. And the woman of Thekoa said unto the king: My lord the king, the iniquity is upon me, and upon my father's house: but let the king and his throne be blameless. 10. And the king said, Whosoever shall speak against thee, bring him unto me, and he shall touch thee no more. 11. And she said, The king remember the LORD thy God, that the avenger of blood be not multiplied to destroy, and that he destroy not my son. And he said, As the LORD liveth, there shall not a hair of thy son fall to the earth. 12. And the woman said, Let thy handmaid say something unto my lord the king. And he said, Tell me. 13. And the woman said, Why hast thou thought such a thing against the people of God, that the king hath spoken such a thing, that he should be guilty, and that he should not bring again his outcast? 14. For we die, and as the waters that are carried away into the earth are not stopped: and God will not take away life, but will take heed lest that which is cast out be cast out of him. 15. Now therefore I am come to speak these things unto my lord the king: for the people made me afraid. For thy handmaid thought: I will speak unto the king; peradventure he will do that which his handmaid saith. 16. For he will hear his handmaid, and deliver me out of the hand of all them that would destroy me and my son from the inheritance of God. 17. And thy handmaid said, The word of my lord the king shall be a comfort unto me: for my lord the king is as an angel of God, that he may hear good and evil. Therefore the LORD thy God shall be with thee. 18. And the king answered and said unto the woman, Deny me not that which I ask thee. And the woman said, My lord the king, speak. 19. And the king said: Is not the hand of Joab with thee in all this? And the woman answered and said, As thy soul liveth, my lord the king, there is none other, neither on the right hand, nor on the left, but as my lord the king hath spoken. For Joab thy servant commanded me, and he gave all these things unto thy handmaid. 20. That I should thus turn this matter, thy servant Joab hath done it. But my lord is wise, as the wisdom of an angel of God, that he knoweth all things in the earth. 21. And the king said unto Joab, Behold, I have done this thing: go therefore, bring again the lad Absalom. 22. And Joab fell on his face to the ground, and worshipped, and thanked the king, and said, To day thy servant knoweth that I have found grace in thy sight, my lord the king, that the king doeth what his servant saith. 23. So Joab arose, and went to Geshur, and brought Absalom to Jerusalem. 24. And the king said, Let him go into his house again, and let him not see my face. So Absalom returned to his house, and saw not the king's face. 25. And there was no man in all Israel so fair as Absalom, and had this praise above all: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head was there not a blemish in him. 26. And it came to pass, when they shaved his head, that it was shaved every year, because it was too heavy for him to be shaved, that the hair of his head weighed two hundred shekels by the king's weight. 27. And unto Absalom were born three sons, and a daughter, whose name was Tamar, a woman fair in form. 28. So Absalom tarried two years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king's face. 29. And Absalom sent to Joab to send him to the king, and he would not come to him. And he sent again, and he would not come. 30. And he said unto his servants: Behold, the piece of Joab's field is by mine, and he hath barley thereon; go ye, and set it on fire. So Absalom's servants set the piece on fire. 31. And Joab arose, and came into Absalom's house, and said unto him, Wherefore have thy servants set my piece on fire? 32. And Absalom said unto Joab, Behold, I sent for thee, saying, Come hither, that I may send thee to the king, saying, Why am I come from Geshur? It would be better for me if I were still here. Now therefore let me see the king's face: but if there be any iniquity in me, slay me. 33. And Joab went in unto the king, and told him. And he called unto Absalom to come in unto the king: and he worshipped upon his face to the earth before the king: and the king kissed Absalom. (2 Samuel) Chapter 15 David flees from his rebellious son Absalom. 1. And it came to pass afterward, that Absalom made him chariots, and horses, and fifty men to carry him. 2. And Absalom rose up early in the morning, and stood by the way of the gate. And it came to pass, when any man had a bargain to come before the king in judgment, that Absalom called him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is one of the tribes of Israel, 3. Thus spake. And Absalom said unto him, Behold, thy cause is just and evil; but thou hast no interrogator from the king. 4. And Absalom said, Who shall make me a judge in the land, that every man may come to me that hath a cause and a judgment, and that I may set him right? 5. And if any man came near to him to worship him, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him. 6. In this manner did Absalom to all Israel, when they came before the king in judgment: so he stole the heart of the men of Israel. 7. And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king: I will go and perform my vow at Hebron, which I have vowed unto the LORD. 8. For thy servant made a vow, when I dwelt at Geshur in Syria, saying, If the LORD bring me again to Jerusalem, I will worship the LORD. 9. And the king said unto him, Go in peace. And he arose, and went to Hebron. 10. And Absalom sent out spies into all the tribes of Israel, saying, When ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then say, Absalom is become king in Hebron. 11. And there went with Absalom two hundred men, called from Jerusalem: but they went in their simplicity, and knew not the matter. 12. And Absalom sent also to Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsel, out of Gib his city. And it came to pass, when he had offered the sacrifices, that the covenant was strengthened: and the people ran and multiplied with Absalom. 13. And there came one, and told David, saying, The heart of every man in Israel follow Absalom. 14. And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Come, and let us flee; for here shall be no escape from Absalom: make haste that we go, lest he overtake us, and take us, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword. 15. And the king's servants said unto him, What my lord the king hath mentioned, behold, here are thy servants. 16. And the king went out on foot with all his household. And he sent ten concubines to keep the house. 17. And when the king and all the people were come out on foot, they stood afar off from the house. 18. And all his servants went beside him, and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men that came from Gath on foot, went before the king. 19. And the king said unto Ithai the Gittite, Why goest thou also with us? Turn again, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and art come hither out of thy place. 20. Yesterday thou camest, and to day thou darest to go with us. But I will go where I may go. Return, and to thy brethren with thee be mercy and faithfulness. 21. And Ithai answered and said, As the LORD liveth, and as my lord the king liveth, in what place my lord the king shall be, whether it be death or life, there shall thy servant be also. 22. And David said unto Ithai, Come then, and go with me. So went Ithai the Gittite, and all his men, and all the multitude of the children that were with him. 23. And all the land wept with a loud voice, and all the people went with him. And the king passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people went forward by the way of the wilderness. 24. And, behold, Zadok also was there, and all the Levites that were with him; and they bare the ark of the covenant of God, and set it there. And Abiathar went up, until all the people came out unto the city. 25. But the king said unto Zadok: Bring again the ark of GOD into the city. If I find favor in the sight of the LORD, he will bring me again, and will let me see it, and his house. 26. And thus saith he: I have no desire for thee: behold, here am I, and he will do with me as he pleaseth? 27. And the king said unto Zadok the priest: O seer, return again into the city with peace, and with you your two sons, Ahimaaz thy son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar. 28. Behold, I will tarry in the plain of the wilderness, until tidings come from you, and they shall tell me. 29. So Zadok and Abiathar brought the ark of God again to Jerusalem, and abode there. 30. And David went up the mount of Olives, and wept, and his head was covered with a veil, and he went barefooted. And all the people that were with him had every man his head covered, and went up weeping. 31. And when it was told David that Ahithophel was in league with Absalom, he said, Lord, make the counsel of Ahithophel foolish. 32. And when David was come up to the high place, where they worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Arachite met him, with his skirt rent, and earth upon his head. 33. And David said unto him, If thou go with me, thou shalt be a burden unto me. 34. And if thou go into the city again, and say unto Absalom, I am thy servant, I will be the king's servant: for I was thy father's servant in those days, and I will be thy servant now: then thou shalt well destroy the counsel of Ahithophel for me. 35. So Zadok and Abiathar the priests are with thee. All that thou heardest of the king's house, say thou unto Zadok and Abiathar the priests. 36. Behold, their two sons are with them, Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar. By them thou mayest tell me what thou shalt hear. 37. So Hushai the friend of David came into the city, and Absalom came to Jerusalem. (2 Samuel) Chapter 16 Ziba's slander. Simei's blasphemy. Absalom's incest. 1. And when David was come down a little from the high place, behold, Ziba the lad of Mephibosheth met him, saddled with a pair of asses; and upon them were two hundred loaves of bread, and an hundred heads of raisins, and an hundred heads of figs, and a bottle of wine. 2. And the king said unto Ziba, What wilt thou do with these? And Ziba said, The asses shall be for the king's servants to ride upon, and the loaves and figs for the young men to eat, and the wine to drink, when they are weary in the wilderness. 3. And the king said, Where is thy master's son? And Ziba said unto the king, Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house of Israel restore me my father's kingdom. 4. And the king said unto Ziba, Behold, all that Mephibosheth hath shall be thine. Ziba said: I worship; let me find grace in thy sight, my lord king. 5. And it came to pass, when king David was come to Bahurim, that, behold, there went out a man there of the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei the son of Gera; and he went out, and cursed; 6. And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David. For all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his left. 7. And Shimei, when he had cursed, said, Out, out, thou bloodhound, thou loose man. 8. The LORD hath recompensed thee for all the blood of the house of Saul, because thou hast reigned in his stead. Now hath the LORD delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou art in thy calamity, because thou art a bloodhound. 9. And Abishai the son of Zeruiah said unto the king, Shall this dead dog curse my lord the king? I will go and pluck off his head. 10. And the king said: Ye children of Zeruiah, what have I to do with you? Let him curse: for the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who then can say, Why doest thou thus? 11. And David said unto Abishai, and unto all his servants: Behold, my son, which is come out of my womb, is after my life: why not now also the son of Jemini? Let him be subdued, that he may curse: for the LORD hath commanded him. 12. Peradventure the LORD will look upon my affliction, and repay me with kindness his cursing this day. 13. So David went on his way with his men: but Shimei went on beside him by the side of the mountain, and cursed, and cast stones at him, and blasted him with stones of the earth. 14. And the king came in, and all the people that were with him, weary, and refreshed themselves there. 15. And Absalom and all the people of the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. 16. And when Hushai the Arachite, David's friend, came in unto Absalom, he said unto Absalom, Happy king! Happy is he, O king! 17. And Absalom said unto Hushai, Is this thy mercy to thy friend? Why wentest thou not with thy friend? 18. And Hushai said unto Absalom, Not so; but whom the LORD hath chosen, and this people, and all the men of Israel, I will be his, and will dwell with him. 19. Secondly, whom shall I serve? Should I not serve before his son? As I have served thy father. As I have served before thy father, so will I serve before thee. 20. And Absalom said unto Ahithophel, Counsel ye, what shall we do? 21. And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Put to sleep thy father's concubines, whom he hath left to keep the house: and all Israel shall hear that thou hast made thy father to stink, and all the hands that are with thee shall be the more bold. 22. And they made Absalom a tent upon the housetop: and Absalom slept with his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel. 23. At that time, when Ahithophel gave counsel, it was as if one had asked of God: so all the counsel of Ahithophel was both with David and with Absalom. (2 Samuel) Chapter 17 Ahitophel's futile advice and desperate end. 1. And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, I will number twelve thousand men, and will arise and pursue David by night. 2. And I will overtake him, because he is faint and lukewarm. And it shall come to pass, when I have made him afraid, that all the people that are with him shall flee, that I will smite the king alone. 3. And bring all the people again unto thee. And it shall come to pass, when every man is brought unto thee according to thy desire, that all the people shall dwell in peace. 4. It seemed good unto Absalom, and to all the elders of Israel. 5. And Absalom said, Let Hushai the Arachite also call, and hear what he saith. 6. And when Hushai came in unto Absalom, Absalom said unto him, Ahithophel hath spoken these things: say thou, shall we do it, or shall we not do it? 7. And Hushai said unto Absalom, It is not good counsel that Ahithophel hath given this time. 8. And Hushai said again, Thou knowest thy father well, and his men, that they are strong, and of a fierce spirit, like a bear whose young are taken in a field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not fail with the people. 9. Behold, he hath hid himself perhaps in a pit, or in some other place. And it shall come to pass, when the first evil shall come, that there shall be a cry, saying, There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom, 10. Then every man that is a warrior, and that hath a heart like a lion, shall be despondent. For all Israel knoweth that thy father is strong, and that there are warriors with him. 11. But this I counsel, that thou gather unto thee all Israel, from Dan even unto Beer-sheba, as the sand of the sea; and that thou set thy person among them. 12. So we will overtake him in what place we find him, and will come upon him as the dew falls upon the earth, that we will not leave one in him, nor in any of his men. 13. And if he gather himself into a city, then all Israel shall cast ropes upon that city, and pull it into the river, that there be not a pebble found in it. 14. Then said Absalom and all Israel, The counsel of Hushai the Arachite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. And the LORD sent to prevent the good counsel of Ahithophel, that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom. 15. And Hushai said unto Zadok and Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel: but I have counseled thus and thus. 16. Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Dwell not in the wilderness overnight, but pass over, lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him. 17. And Jonathan and Ahimaaz sat by the well of Rogel, and a maid went and told them. And they went and told king David: for they were not to be seen coming into the city. 18. And a lad saw them, and told Absalom. And the two went in haste, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in his court; thither they went in. 19. And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's hole, and spread gruel over it, that it should not be known. 20. And when Absalom's servants came into the house to the woman, they said: Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They went over the brook. And when they sought, and found not, they returned to Jerusalem. 21. And when they were departed, they came up out of the well, and went and told David the king, and said unto David, Arise, and pass over the waters in haste: for thus and thus hath Ahithophel counseled against you. 22. Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and passed over Jordan, until the morning light: and there was not one lacking that passed not over Jordan. 23. And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not departed from, he saddled his ass, and arose, and went home to his own city, and filled his house, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in his father's sepulchre. 24. And David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, and all the men of Israel with him. 25. And Absalom had set Amasa in Joab's stead over the host. And Amasa was a man's son, whose name was Jethra, an Israelite, which lay with Abigail the daughter of Nahah, the sister of Zeruiah, Joab's mother. 26. And Israel and Absalom encamped in Gilead. 27. And when David was come to Mahanaim, Shobi the son of Naha, of Rabbath, of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel, of Lodabar, and Barzillai the Giladite, of Roglim 28. bedding, basin, earthen vessel, wheat, barley, flour, sangs, beans, lentils, groats. 29. And honey, and butter, and sheep's milk, and oxen's milk, to David, and to the people that were with him, to eat. For they thought, The people shall be hungry, and weary, and thirsty in the wilderness. (2 Samuel) Chapter 18 Absalom is pierced hanging from an oak tree. 1. And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains over them a thousand and an hundred. 2. And he sent out of the people a third part under Joab, and a third part under Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, and a third part under Ithai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, I will go out with you also. 3. And the people said, Thou shalt not go out: for though we flee, or half of us die, they will not take us: for thou art as though our number were ten thousand: now therefore it is better that thou shouldest help us out of the city. 4. And the king said unto them: What ye please, that will I do. And the king stood at the gate, and all the people went out by hundreds and by thousands. 5. And the king commanded Joab, and Abishai, and Ithai, saying, Deal cleanly with the lad Absalom. And all the people heard it, when the king commanded all the captains about Absalom. 6. And it came to pass, when the people were come out into the field to meet Israel, that the battle arose in the forest of Ephraim. 7. And the people of Israel were smitten there before the servants of David: and there was a great slaughter that day, twenty thousand men. 8. And there was the battle scattered abroad in all the land: and the forest devoured more people by day than the sword devoured. 9. And Absalom met David's servants, and rode upon a jaw. And when the mouth was come under a great thick oak, he hanged his head upon the oak, and hovered between heaven and earth: but his mouth ran out from under him. 10. And when a man saw it, he told Joab, saying, Behold, I saw Absalom hanging on an oak. 11. And Joab said unto the man that told him, Behold, sawest thou this? Why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? then would I have given thee of me ten pieces of silver, and a girdle. 12. And the man said unto Joab: If thou hadst weighed a thousand pieces of silver in my hand, Yet would I not have laid my hand upon the king's son. For the king commanded thee, and Abishai, and Ithai, in our ears, saying, Beware lest any man hurt the lad Absalom. 13. Or if I had done any thing wrong in my way, because nothing is hid from the king, thou thyself wouldest have stood against me. 14. And Joab said: I cannot tarry with thee so long. And Joab took three spears in his hand, and thrust them into Absalom's heart, while he yet lived by the oak. 15. And ten lads, Joab's armourbearers, went about, and smote him to death. 16. And Joab blew a trumpet, and brought the people again, that they should not pursue after Israel: for Joab would spare the people. 17. And they took Absalom, and cast him into the wood into a great pit, and laid a very great heap of stones upon him. And all Israel fled every man to his tent. 18. And Absalom had set up a pillar for him, while he was yet alive, which is in the king's own land. For he said: I have no son: therefore this shall be the memorial of my name: and he called the pillar after his name, and it is called Absalom's room unto this day. 19. And Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, Let me run, I pray thee, and proclaim unto the king that the LORD hath delivered him out of the hand of his enemies. 20. And Joab said unto him, Thou bringest no good tidings this day. One day thou shalt bring tidings, and to day thou shalt not: for the king's son is dead. 21. And Joab said unto Chuzi, Go and tell the king what thou hast seen. And Chuzi worshipped Joab, and ran. 22. And Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said again unto Joab: How if I also run after Chuzi? And Joab said, What wilt thou run after, my son? Come hither, thou wilt not bring good tidings. 23. How if I run? He said unto him, Run then. So Ahimaaz ran straightway, and came before Chusi. 24. And David sat between two gates. And the watchman went up to the roof of the gate that was by the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and saw a man walking by himself. 25. And he called and told the king. And the king said: If he be alone, good tidings are in his mouth. And when the same went and came near, 26. And the watchman saw another man running, and called into the gate, and said, Behold, a man runneth alone. And the king said, He also is a good messenger. 27. And the watchman said: I see the first course as the course of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok. And the king said, He is a good man, and bringeth good tidings. 28. And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king: Peace! And he worshipped before the king upon his face to the earth, saying, Blessed be the LORD thy God, which hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand against my lord the king. 29. And the king said, Is it well with the lad Absalom? And Ahimaaz said: I saw a great tumult, when Joab the king's servant sent me thy servant; and I know not what it was. 30. And the king said, Go about, and stand there. And he went about, and stood there. 31. And, behold, Chuzi came and said, Here is good tidings, my lord the king. The LORD hath avenged thee this day from the hand of all them that rebelled against thee. 32. And the king said unto Chushi, Is it well with the lad Absalom? And Chushi said, Let it be to all the enemies of my lord the king, as it is to the lad, and to do evil to all that rise up against thee. 33. And the king was grieved, and went into the hall of the gate, and wept: and as he went, he said, My son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom. Would to God that I should die for thee! O Absalom, my son, my son! (2 Samuel) Chapter 19 David is restored to the kingdom. 1. And it was told Joab, saying, Behold, the king weepeth, and mourneth for Absalom. 2. And the victory of the day was grievous among all the people: for the people heard that day that the king was grieved for his son. 3. And the people stole away that day, and entered not into the city, as a people that are consumed, when they are fled in the battle, stumble. 4. And the king covered his face, and cried with a loud voice: Ah, my son Absalom! Absalom, my son, my son! 5. And Joab came into the king's house, and said, Thou hast made all thy servants ashamed this day, which have saved the souls of thy sons, and of thy daughters, and of thy wives, and of thy concubines, 6. To love them that hate thee, and to hate them that love thee. For this day thou hast found it out, that thou hast no interest in the captains and servants. For I know this day, that if Absalom were alive unto thee, and we were all dead this day, it would seem good unto thee. 7. Arise therefore, and go forth, and speak kindly unto thy servants. For I swear unto thee by the LORD, If thou go not out, there shall not a man abide with thee this night. And it shall be worse unto thee than all the evil that hath come upon thee from thy youth even unto this day. 8. And the king arose, and sat in the gate. And it was told all the people, Behold, the king sitteth in the gate. And all the people came before the king. And Israel fled every man into his tent. 9. And all the people of all the tribes of Israel were at strife, and said: The king hath delivered us out of the hand of our enemies, and delivered us out of the hand of the Philistines, and hath fled out of the land before Absalom. 10. Thus Absalom died in the battle which we anointed over us. Wherefore now are ye so quiet, that ye will not restore the king? 11. And the king sent unto Zadok and Abiathar the priests, saying, Speak unto the elders of Judah, saying, Why be ye the last to bring the king again to his house? (For the speech of all Israel was to come before the king into his house.) 12. Ye are my brethren, my bone and my flesh: why then will ye be the last to take the king again? 13. And say unto Amasa, Art thou not my bone and my flesh? God do this and that unto me, that thou be not captain of the host before me all thy days in Joab's stead. 14. And he inclined the heart of all the men of Judah as of a man. And they sent unto the king: Come again, thou, and all thy servants. 15. So the king came again. And when he was come to Jordan, the men of Judah were come to Gilgal to go down to meet the king, to bring the king over Jordan. 16. And Shimei the son of Gera, the son of Jemini, which dwelt in Bahurim, hasted, and went down with the men of Judah to meet David the king. 17. And there were with him a thousand men of Benjamin, and Ziba the young man of the house of Saul, and his fifteen sons, and twenty servants: and they passed over Jordan before the king. 18. And they made the fords, and brought the king's servants over, and did according to his pleasure. And Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king, as he passed over Jordan. 19. And he said unto the king: My lord, count not this iniquity against me, and remember not that thy servant offended thee the day that my lord the king departed from Jerusalem, and the king take it not to heart; 20. For thy servant knoweth that I have sinned. And, behold, I am come this day the first of all the house of Joseph, to go down to meet my lord the king. 21. And Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered and said, And Shimei shall not die for this, seeing he hath cursed the LORD'S anointed? 22. And David said, What have I to do with you, ye children of Zeruiah, that ye should become Satan unto me this day? Shall any die this day in Israel? thinkest thou that I know not that I am become king over Israel this day? 23. And the king said unto Shimei, Thou shalt not die. And the king sware unto him. 24. Mephibosheth the son of Saul also came down to meet the king. And he had not washed his feet, nor his beard, nor his clothes, from the day that the king departed, until the day that he came in peace. 25. And when he was come to Jerusalem to meet the king, the king said unto him, Why wentest thou not with me, Mephibosheth? 26. And he said, My lord the king, my servant hath deceived me. For thy servant thought, I will saddle an ass, and ride upon it, and go to the king: for thy servant is lame. 27. For this he hath shewed thy servant before my lord the king. But my lord the king is as an angel of God: do that which is good in thy sight. 28. For all my father's house were nothing, but men of death before my lord the king: hast thou set thy servant among them that eat at thy table? What have I further righteousness, or further cry unto the king? 29. And the king said unto him, Why speakest thou any more of thy things? I have said, Thou and Ziba divide the field together. 30. And Mephibosheth said unto the king: He shall take it even there, after my lord the king is come home in peace. 31. And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Roglim, and brought the king over Jordan, to lead him in Jordan. 32. And Barzillai was almost old, even fourscore years old: and he had fed the king, because he was in Mahanaim: for he was a very excellent man. 33. And the king said unto Barzillai, Thou shalt pass over with me, and I will provide for thee with me at Jerusalem. 34. And Barzillai said unto the king: What is there left for me to live, that I should go up with the king to Jerusalem? Thirty-five. I am eighty years old today. How should I know what is good or evil, or taste what I eat or drink, or hear what the singers sing? Why should your servant complain to my lord the king any more? 36. Thy servant shall go a little way with the king over Jordan. Why will the king do such a recompense unto me? 37. Let thy servant return, that I may die in my city, by the grave of my father and of my mother. Behold, thy servant Chimeham, let him go over with my lord the king, and do unto him that which is good in thy sight. 38. And the king said, Chimeham shall pass over with me, and I will do unto him that which is good in thy sight: also all that thou choosest in me will I do unto thee. 39. And when all the people were gone over Jordan, and the king also, the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his place. 40. And the king passed over to Gilgal, and Chimeham passed over with him. And all the people of Judah had carried the king over: but half the people of Israel were there. 41. And, behold, all the men of Israel came to the king, and said unto him, Why have our brethren the men of Judah stolen thee, and have brought the king and his house over Jordan, and all David's men with him? 42. And the men of Judah said unto the men of Israel, The king is nigh unto us: wherefore are ye angry? Do ye think that we have received food or gifts from the king? 43. And they of Israel answered them of Judah, and said: We have ten times more with the king, and also with David, than ye have. Why then hast thou esteemed me so small, that ours was not the first to take our king? But they of Judah spake more harshly than they of Israel. (2 Samuel) Chapter 20 Seba, the rebel, will get his reward. 1. And there was there a certain man of renown, whose name was Sheba, the son of Bichri, a man of Jemini: and he blew a trumpet, and said, We have no part in David, neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse. Let every man take his place in his tent, O Israel. 2. And all the men of Israel fell from David, and followed Zeba the son of Bichri. And the men of Judah clave to their king from Jordan even unto Jerusalem. 3. And when king David was come home to Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines, which he had left to keep the house, and put them in ward, and fed them; but he slept not with them. So they were shut up until their death, and lived as widows. 4. And the king said unto Amasa, Call me all the men of Judah unto the third day; and thou shalt stand here also. 5. And Amasa went to call Judah; but he delayed the time which he had appointed him. 6. And David said unto Abishai, Now shall Sheba the son of Bichri hurt us more than Absalom. Take thou thy master's servants, and pursue after him, lest he find for himself strong cities, and escape out of our sight. 7. And the men of Joab went out after him, and the Cherethites, and the Pelethites, and all the mighty men. And they went out from Jerusalem after Sheba the son of Bichri. 8. And when they were by the great stone that was in Gibeon, Amasa came before them. And Joab was girded upon his garment that he had on, and had girded upon him a sword, which hung upon his thigh in the sheath, which went out with pleasure. 9. And Joab said unto Amasa, Peace be unto thee, my brother. And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand, and kissed him. 10. And Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab's hand; and he thrust him therewith in the belly, and his bowels were poured out upon the earth; and he gave him no more thrust, and died. And Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri. 11. And one of the sons of Joab stood by him, and said, Defy, and make one of you Joab's sons, and make David Joab's son. 12. And Amasa lay rolled in blood in the midst of the street. And when one saw that all the people stood still, he turned Amasa out of the street into the field, and cast clothes upon him; because he saw that whosoever came nigh him stood still. 13. And it came to pass, when he was put out of the way, that every man followed Joab after Sheba the son of Bichri. 14. And he passed through all the tribes of Israel unto Abel, and Beth-maachah, and all Haberim: and they gathered themselves together, and followed him. 15. And they came and besieged Abel and Beth-maachah; and they heaped a rubble round about the city, and stood upon the wall: and all the people that were with Joab rushed, and would have cast down the wall. 16. And a wise woman cried out of the city, Hear ye. Hear ye! Speak unto Joab, that he come hither; and I will speak unto him. 17. And when he was come unto her, the woman said, Art thou Joab? And he said, Yea: and she said unto him, Hear the speech of thine handmaid. And he said: I hear. 18. And she said, In old time they said: If any man will ask, let him ask of Abel: and it came to pass. 19. I am one of the peaceable and faithful cities of Israel: and wilt thou slay the city, and the mother of Israel? Why wilt thou devour the inheritance of the LORD? 20. And Joab answered and said, Far be it from me, far be it from me, that I should devour and destroy. And it was not so; 21. But a man of mount Ephraim, whose name is Sheba the son of Bichri, hath rebelled against king David. Pray for him alone, and I will depart out of the city. And the woman said unto Joab, Behold, his head shall be thrown over the wall unto thee. 22. And the woman came in unto all the people with her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it unto Joab. And he blew the trumpet, and they dispersed themselves from the city every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king. 23. And Joab was over all the host of Israel. And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Krethi and Plethi. 24. Adoram was chamberlain. Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was chancellor. 25. And Seiah was a scribe. Zadok and Abiathar were priests. 26. And Ira the Jairite was David's priest. (2 Samuel) Chapter 21 David resisteth the temptation, obtaineth victories against the Philistines. 1. There was also a time of trouble in David's days, three years in succession: and David sought the face of the LORD. And the LORD said, Because of Saul, and because of the house of blood, that he slew the Gibeonites. 2. And the king called for the Gibeonites, and said unto them. (Now the Gibeonites were not of the children of Israel, but were left of the Amorites: but the children of Israel had sworn unto them, and Saul sought to smite them in his zeal for the children of Israel and Judah). 3. And David said unto the Gibeonites: What shall I do unto you, and wherewith shall I make an atonement for you, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD? 4. And the Gibeonites said unto him, It is not for us to do gold nor silver unto Saul, nor to do silver unto his house, neither is it for us to kill any man in Israel. And he said, What say ye then that I should do unto you? 5. And they said unto the king: The man that hath destroyed us, and brought us to nought, we will destroy him, and nothing shall remain unto him in all the coasts of Israel. 6. Pray us seven men of his house, that we may hang them up for the LORD in Gibeah of Saul the LORD'S chosen. And the king said: I will give them. 7. But the king spared Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the oath of the LORD, which was between them, even between David and Jonathan the son of Saul. 8. And the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, which she bare unto Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth; and the five sons of Michal the daughter of Saul, which she bare unto Adriel the son of Barzillai the Mahalothite, the king took. 9. And he delivered them into the hand of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them in the mount before the LORD. So these seven fell at once, and died in the time of the first harvest, when the barley harvest began. 10. And Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth, and spread it upon the rock in the beginning of the harvest, until the waters of heaven dripped upon them: and she suffered not the fowls of the air to rest upon them by day, nor the beasts of the field by night. 11. And it was told David what Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, Saul's concubine, had done. 12. And David went and took the bones of Saul, and the bones of Jonathan his son, of the men of Jabesh in Gilead, which they had stolen out of the street of Bethshan, where the Philistines had hanged them, when the Philistines smote Saul in mount Gilboa. 13. And brought them up from thence, and gathered them into heaps with the bones of the slain. 14. And they buried the bones of Saul and of Jonathan his son in the land of Benjamin, in Zelah, in the sepulchre of Kish his father; and they did according to all that the king commanded: and God was reconciled to the land after that; 15. And there arose again a war of the Philistines against Israel: and David went down, and his servants with him, and fought against the Philistines. And David was weary. 16. And Jeshbi of Nob, who was one of the sons of Rapha, and the weight of his spear was three hundred weight of brass, and had new weapons, intended to smite David. 17. And Abishai the son of Zeruiah helped him, and slew the Philistine. And the men of David sware unto him, saying: Thou shalt go out no more with us to battle, lest the light of Israel be put out. 18. And afterward there arose a war at Nob with the Philistines. And Shibechai the Hushathite smote Saph, which was one of the sons of Rapha. 19. And there was war again in Gob with the Philistines. And Elhanan the son of Jaere-orgim, a Bethlehemite, smote Goliath the Gittite, whose spear was like a weaver's beam. 20. And there arose another war in Gath. And there was a man of great stature, which had six fingers in his hands, and six toes in his feet, which were twenty and four in number: and he also was born of Rapha. 21. And when he had mocked Israel, Jonathan the son of Simea, David's brother, smote him. 22. These four were born to Rapha in Gath, and fell by the hand of David and his servants. (2 Samuel) Chapter 22 Praise song of David for salvation from his enemies. 1. And David spake the words of this song before the LORD in the days when the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul, saying: 2. The LORD is my rock, and my burgundy my deliverer. 3. God is my refuge, in whom I trust, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my protection and my refuge, my Savior, who saves me from iniquity. 4. I will praise the LORD, and call upon him, and I shall be delivered from mine enemies. 5. For the pains of death had compassed me about, and the rivers of Belial terrified me. 6. The bands of hell compassed me about, and the cords of death overwhelmed me. 7. When I am afraid, I call upon the LORD, and cry unto my God; and he heareth my voice from his temple, and my cry cometh before him in his ears. 8. The earth quaked and was moved; the foundations of heaven were moved and shook, because he was wroth. 9. Vapour went up from his nostrils, and fire consumed from his mouth, and there was lightning therefrom. 10. He bowed the heavens, and descended, and darkness was under his feet. 11. And he rode upon the cherub, and flew; and he floated upon the wings of the wind. 12. His tent about him was dark, and black thick clouds. 13. From the brightness before him it burned with lightnings. 14. The LORD thundered from heaven, and the most High let out his thunder. 15. He shot forth his beams, and scattered them; he made lightning, and terrified them. 16. And there were showers of water, and the ground was covered with the reproach of the LORD, and with the breath of his nostrils, and with the snorting of his nostrils. 17. He sent from on high, and took me, and drew me up out of great waters. 18. He delivered me from my strong enemies, from my haters that were too mighty for me, 19. Which overcame me in the time of my calamity. And the LORD became my confidence. 20. He brought me out into the room; he plucked me out, because he had a desire for me. 21. The LORD hath dealt well with me according to my righteousness: he hath rewarded me according to the cleanness of my hands. 22. For I keep the ways of the LORD, and am not ungodly against my God. 23. For all his statutes have I in view, and his commandments will I not cast away; 24. But I am without change before him, and keep myself from sins. 25. Therefore the LORD rewardeth me according to my righteousness, according to my cleanness in his sight. 26. With the saints thou art holy; with the pious thou art pious, 27. With the pure you are pure, and with the perverse you are perverse. 28. For thou helpest the wretched people, and with thine eyes thou bringest low them that are high. 29. For thou, O LORD, art my lamp. The LORD maketh light my darkness. 30. For with thee I can smite warriors, and leap over the walls with my God. 31. God's ways are without change, the words of the LORD are pure: he is a shield unto all them that put their trust in him. 32. For is there a God without the LORD? And where is a refuge without our God? 33. God strengthens me with power and shows me a way without change. 34. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me on my high place. 35. He hath taught my hands to fight, and my arm to draw the bow of brass. 36. And givest me the shield of thy salvation. And when thou humblest me, thou makest me great. 37. thou makest room to walk under me, that my ankles slip not. 38. I will pursue after mine enemies, and destroy them; and will not return until I have destroyed them. 39. I will kill them, and break them in pieces, and they shall not withstand me: they shall fall under my feet. 40. Thou canst arm me with strength to battle; thou canst cast under me them that set themselves against me. 41. Thou givest me mine enemies to flee, that I may destroy them that hate me. 42. They love one another, but there is no helper; to the LORD, but he answereth them not. 43. I will pound them as the dust of the earth; as the dung of the street will I scatter and scatter them. 44. Thou savest me from the contentious people, and keepest me for a head among the heathen: a people that I knew not serve me. 45. The strange children have feared me, and obeyed me with obedient ears. 46. the strange children are languishing and wriggling in their bonds. 47. The LORD liveth; and blessed be my stronghold, and let God, the stronghold of my salvation, be exalted. 48. The GOD who gives me vengeance and casts the nations under me. 49. He delivereth me out of mine enemies. Thou liftest me up from them that set themselves against me: thou savest me from the wicked. 50. Therefore will I give thee thanks, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praise unto thy name. And sing praise unto thy name, 51. Who hath shewed great salvation unto his king, and his anointed David, and his seed for ever. (2 Samuel) Chapter 23 David's last speeches and hero book. 1. These are the last words of David: David the son of Jesse spake; the man assured of the Messiah of the God of Jacob spake sweetly with the psalms of Israel. 2. The Spirit of the LORD hath spoken by me, and his speech is by my tongue. 3. The GOD of Israel hath spoken unto me; the stronghold of Israel hath spoken, the righteous Ruler among men, the Ruler in the fear of GOD. 4. And as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth in the morning without cloud, when from the brightness after the rain the grass groweth out of the earth. 5. For my house is not so with God: for he hath set me a covenant for ever, and all things are well ordered and kept. For all my salvation and my doings are that nothing increase. 6. but Belial are all like the outcast thistles which cannot be grasped with hands; 7. But he that shall attack them shall have iron and spears in his hand, and shall be burned with fire in the tabernacle. 8. These are the names of the mighty men of David: Jashabeam the son of Hachmoni, the chiefest of the three; he took up his spear, and slew eight hundred at one time. 9. After him was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the son of Ahohi, among the three valiant men with David. And they mocked the Philistines, and were gathered there to battle, and the men of Israel went up, 10. And he stood and smote the Philistines, until his hand was weary upon the sword. And the LORD gave great salvation at that time; and the people turned back after him to take away. 11. After him was Samma the son of Agah the Hararite. And the Philistines gathered themselves together into a company, and there was there a piece of ground full of lentils: and the people fled from before the Philistines, 12. And he stood in the midst of the piece, and delivered it, and smote the Philistines: and God gave great salvation. 13. And these three chief of thirty came down in the harvest to David in the cave of Adullam; and the band of the Philistines lay in the bottom of Rephaim. 14. And David was in the castle at that time, and the Philistine people were in Bethlehem. 15. And David longed, and said, Who shall fetch me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem under the gate? 16. And the three mighty men went into the camp of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, which was under the gate, and bare it, and brought it unto David. But he would not drink it, but poured it out unto the LORD. 17. And said, Let the LORD forbid that I should do this thing. Is it not the blood of the men that have dared their lives, and perished? And he would not drink it. So did the three mighty men. 18. And Abishai the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was the chief of the three. He lifted up his spear, and smote three hundred: and he was also renowned among three. 19. And the most glorious of the three, and was chief of them: but he came not nigh unto the three. 20. And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of Ishail, of great works, of Kabzeel. And he smote two lions of Moab: and he went down, and smote a lion in the well in the snowy season. 21. And he smote also an Egyptian, an abominable man, which had a spear in his hand. And he went down unto him with a rod, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear. 22. This did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada: and he was famous among the three mighty men. 23. And more glorious than the thirty: but he came not within three. And David made him a secret council. 24. Asahel the brother of Joab was among the thirty. Elhanan the son of Dodo, at Bethlehem. 25. Samma the Haradite. Elika the Haradite. 26. Helez the Paltite. Ira the son of Ike the Thekoite. 27. Abieser the Anthothite. Mebunai the Hushathite. 28. Zalmon the Ahohite. Maherai the Netophathite. 29. Heleb the son of Baenah the Netophathite. Ithai the son of Ribai, of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin. 30. Benaiah the Pirgathonite. Hidai, of the streams of Gaa. 31. Abialbon the Arbathite. Asmaveth the Barhumite. 32. Eliakheba the Saalbonite. The children Jasen and Jonathan. 33. Samma the Hararite. Ahiam the son of Sarar the Hararite. 34. Eliphelet the son of Ahazbai the son of Maechathi. Eliam the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite. 35. Hezrai the Carmelite Paerai the Arbiter. 36. Jegeal the son of Nathan of Zobah. Bani the Gadite. 37. Zelek the Ammonite. Naharai the Beerothite, the armorbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah. 38. Ira the Jethrite. Gareb the Jethrite. 39. Uriah the Hittite. Of all these there are thirty and seven. (2 Samuel) Chapter 24 David's ambition in counting the people is punished with pestilence. 1. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel again, and provoked David among them, saying, Go, number Israel and Judah. 2. And the king said unto Joab the captain of his host, Go thou round about all the tribes of Israel from Dan even unto Beer-sheba, and number the people, that I may know how many they are. 3. And Joab said unto the king: The LORD thy God do unto this people, as it is now, an hundred times more, that my lord the king may see the pleasure of his eyes: but what pleasure hath my lord the king in this matter? 4. And the king's word was against Joab, and against the captains of the host. So Joab went out, and the captains of the host, from the king, to number the people of Israel. 5. And they passed over Jordan, and encamped at Aroer on the right hand of the city that is in the brook Gad, and at Jaeser. 6. And they came to Gilead, and to the low country of Hadi: and they came to Dan-jan, and to Zidon. 7. And they came to the strong city of Tyrus, and to all the cities of the Hivites and Canaanites; and they went out unto the south of Judah to Beersheba. 8. And they compassed all the country, and came to Jerusalem after nine months and twenty days. 9. And Joab gave the king the sum of the people that were numbered. And there were in Israel eight hundred thousand mighty men that drew sword, and in Judah five hundred thousand men. 10. And the heart smote David, after that the people were numbered. And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done this thing: now therefore, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant: for I have done very foolishly. 11. And when. David arose in the morning, and the word of the LORD came unto Gad the prophet, David's seer, saying: 12. Go and speak unto David, Thus saith the LORD; Three things will I bring unto thee; choose thee one that I do unto thee. 13. And Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Wilt thou that seven years' tribulation shall come upon thy land, or that thou shalt flee from thine adversaries three months, and they shall pursue thee, or that three days' pestilence shall be in thy land? Mark now, and see what I shall say again unto him that sent me. 14. And David said unto Gad: I am almost afraid; but let us fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is great: I will not fall into the hand of man. 15. So the LORD caused a pestilence to come upon Israel from the morning even until the time appointed: and the people died from Dan even unto Beer-sheba, even seventy thousand men. 16. And when the angel stretched out his hand upon Jerusalem to destroy her, the LORD repented him of the evil, and said unto the angel that destroyed the people, It is enough; now therefore let thine hand be removed. Now the angel of the LORD was at the threshingfloor of Arafna the Jebusite. 17. And David, when he saw the angel that smote the people, said unto the LORD, Behold, I have sinned, I have done iniquity: what have these sheep done? Let thine hand be against me, and against my father's house. 18. And Gad came to David at that time, and said unto him, Go up, set up an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Arafna the Jebusite. 19. So David went up, as Gad had said, and as the LORD had commanded. 20. And when Arafna turned, he saw the king going to him with his servants; and he worshipped upon his face to the earth. 21. And he said, Why cometh my lord the king to his servant? And David said, To buy of thee the threshingfloor, and to build an altar unto the LORD, that the plague of the people may cease. 22. And Arafna said unto David, My lord the king, take and offer as it pleaseth him: behold, there is an ox for a burnt offering, and bows, and harness of an ox for wood. 23. And Arafna the king gave all to the king. And Arafna said unto the king: The LORD thy God, let thee be acceptable unto him. 24. And the king said unto Arafna, Not so; but I will buy it of thee for his money: for I will not offer burnt offerings unto the LORD my God, which I have for nought. So David bought the threshingfloor and the ox for fifty shekels of silver. 25. And there he built an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. And the LORD made an atonement for the land, and the plague ceased from off the people of Israel. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The First Book of Kings (1 Kings) ^ Chapter 1 Solomon anointed and inaugurated as king. 1. And because king David was old and well stricken in years, though they covered him with garments, he could not wax warm. 2. And his servants said unto him, Let them find my lord the king a damsel, a virgin, to stand before the king, and to nurse him, and to sleep in his arms, and to warm my lord the king. 3. And they sought a fair damsel throughout all the coasts of Israel: and they found Abi sag of Sunem, and brought her unto the king. 4. And she was a very fair damsel; and she nursed the king, and ministered unto him. But the king knew her not: 5. And Adonijah the son of Hagith rose up, and said: I will be king. And he made him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to go before him. 6. And his father would not grieve him in his days, saying, Why doest thou thus? And he also was a very goodly man, and he begat him next unto Absalom. 7. And he had counsel with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with Abiathar the priest, which helped Adonijah. 8. But Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoioda, and Nathan the prophet, and Shimei, and Rei, and the mighty men of David, were not with Adonijah. 9. And Adonijah sacrificed sheep and oxen and fatted cattle by the stone of Soheleth, which is by the well of Rogel; and he invited all his brethren the king's sons, and all the men of Judah the king's servants. 10. But Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah, and the mighty men, and Solomon his brother, he invited not. 11. And Nathan said unto Bathsheba Solomon's mother, Hast thou not heard that Adonijah the son of Hagith is king, and our lord David knoweth not? 12. Come now therefore, and I will give thee counsel, that thou mayest save thy soul, and the soul of Solomon thy son. 13. Go, and enter in unto king David, and say unto him, Didst thou not, my lord the king, swear unto thy handmaid, saying: Solomon thy son shall be king after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? Why then hath Adonijah become king? 14. Behold, because thou art yet here, and speakest with the king, I will come in after thee, and will fully speak thy word. 15. And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber. And the king was very old, and Abishag of Sunem ministered unto the king. 16. And Bathsheba bowed herself, and worshipped the king. And the king said, What is the matter with thee? 17. And she said unto him, My lord, thou hast sworn unto thy handmaid by the LORD thy God, saying, Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and sit upon my throne. 18. But now, behold, Adonia is become king; and, my lord the king, thou knowest nothing about it. 19. He hath offered oxen and fatlings, and many sheep: and he hath charged all the king's sons, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but he hath not charged Solomon thy servant. 20. But thou art my lord the king: the eyes of all Israel look unto thee, that thou mayest shew them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21. But when my lord the king shall have fallen asleep with his fathers, then shall I and Solomon my son be sinners. 22. And while she yet spake unto the king, Nathan the prophet came. 23. And they told the king: Behold, Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he worshipped the king on his face to the earth. 24. And said, My lord king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall be king after me, and shall sit upon my throne? 25. For he went down this day, and offered oxen and fatlings, and many sheep, and called all the king's sons, and the captains, and Abiathar the priest. And, behold, they eat and drink before him, saying, Happy is the king Adonijah! 26. But me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not charged. 27. Is this commanded of my lord the king, and hast not thy servants known who shall sit in the throne of my lord the king after him? 28. And king David answered and said, Call Bathsheba unto me. And she came in before the king. And she stood before the king, 29. And the king sware, saying, As the LORD liveth, who hath delivered my soul out of all distress, 30. I will do this day as I sware unto thee by the LORD God of Israel, saying, Solomon thy son shall reign after me; and he shall sit upon my throne for me. 31. And Bathsheba bowed her face to the ground, and worshipped the king, and said, Blessed be my lord King David for ever. 32. And king David said, Call me Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada. And they came in before the king, 33. And the king said unto them: Take with you your lord's servants, and set Solomon my son upon my mouth, and bring him down to Gihon. 34. And Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, anoint him there king over Israel. And blow ye with the trumpets, and say, Blessed be Solomon the king. 35. And go up after him, and when he is come, he shall sit upon my throne, and be king over me: and I will command him to be ruler over Israel and over Judah. 36. And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada answered the king, and said, Amen, so saith the LORD God of my lord the king. 37. As the LORD hath been with my lord the king, so be he also with Solomon, that his throne may be greater than the throne of my lord king David. 38. And Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoioda, and Krethi and Plethi, went down, and set Solomon in the jaws of king David, and brought him to Gihon. 39. And Zadok the priest took the horn of oil out of the tabernacle, and anointed Solomon. And they blew with the trumpet, and all the people said, Happy is king Solomon! 40. And all the people went up after him: and the people blew with whistles, and were very glad; and the earth rang with their shouting. 41. And Adonijah heard it, and all that he had invited that were with him; and they had already eaten. And when Joab heard the sound of the trumpets, he said, What is the cry and tumult of the city? 42. And while he yet spake, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came. And Adonijah said, Come in, for thou art an upright man, and bringest good tidings. 43. And Jonathan answered and said unto Adonijah, Yea, our lord king David hath made Solomon king; 44. And he sent with him Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and Krethi and Plethi; and they set him in the king's mouth. 45. And Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anointed him king in Gihon: and they went up from thence with joy, and the city rejoiced. This is the cry that ye have heard. 46. For this Solomon sitteth in the royal seat. 47. And the king's servants went in to bless our lord king David, saying, Thy God make Solomon's name better than thy name, and make his throne greater than thy throne. And the king worshipped in the camp. 48. And the king said, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which this day hath made one to sit upon my throne, that mine eyes have seen. 49. And all that were bidden at Adonijah were afraid, and arose, and went every man his way. 50. But Adonijah was afraid of Solomon; and he arose, and went, and took hold of the horns of the altar. 51. And it was told Solomon, saying, Behold, Adonijah feareth king Solomon; and, behold, he taketh hold of the horns of the altar, saying, King Solomon sweareth unto me this day that he will not slay his servant with the sword. 52. And Solomon said, If he be upright, not a hair of his head shall fall to the earth: but if evil be found in him, he shall die. 53. And king Solomon sent, and brought him down from off the altar. And when he was come, he worshipped king Solomon. And Solomon said unto him, Go into thine house. (1 Kings) Chapter 2 David's last will and parting. Solomon's succession and earnest government. 1. And it came to pass, when the time was come that David should die, that he commanded Solomon his son, saying: 2. I go the way of all the earth: be of good cheer, and be a man. 3. And wait upon the guard of the LORD thy God, that thou walk in his ways, and keep his statutes, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses; that thou mayest be wise in all that thou doest, and in all that thou turnest, 4. That the LORD may perform his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children keep their ways, and walk before me faithfully with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall never fail thee a man upon the throne of Israel. 5. Also thou knowest well what Joab the son of Zeruiah did unto me, what he did unto the two captains of the host of Israel, Abner the son of Ner, and Amasa the son of Jether, whom he slew, and shed the blood of war in peace, and put the blood of war upon his girdle that was about his loins, and upon his shoes that were upon his feet. 6. Do according to thy wisdom, that thou bring not down his gray hairs with peace unto hell. 7. Thou shalt also shew mercy unto the children of Barzillai the Gileadite, that they may eat at thy table. For so they did unto me, when I fled from Absalom thy brother. 8. And, behold, thou hast with thee Shimei the son of Gera, the son of Jemini of Bahurim, who cursed me shamefully at the time that I went to Mahanaim. And he came down to meet me by Jordan. And I sware unto him by the LORD, saying: I will not kill thee with the sword. 9. But let him not be innocent: for thou art a wise man, and knowest well what thou oughtest to do unto him, that thou mayest bring down his gray hairs with blood into hell. 10. So David slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David. 11. And the time that David reigned over Israel was forty years. Seven years was he king in Hebron, and thirty and three years in Jerusalem. 12. And Solomon sat upon the throne of David his father, and his kingdom was very established. 13. And Adonijah the son of Hagith came in unto Bathsheba the mother of Solomon. And she said, Comest thou also with peace? And he said, Yea. 14. And said: I have come to speak with thee. And she said, Tell me. 15. And he said, Thou knowest that the kingdom was mine, and all Israel was set upon me to be king: but now the kingdom is turned, and is become my brother's; from the LORD it is become his. 16. Now I make a request of thee, that thou put not my face to shame. And she said unto him, Tell me. 17. And he said, Speak unto king Solomon, (for he will not put thy face to shame,) that he give me Abi sag of Sunem to wife. 18. And Bathsheba said, Well, I will speak unto the king for thy sake. 19. And Bathsheba came in unto king Solomon, to speak with him concerning Adonijah. And the king arose, and went to meet her, and worshipped her, and sat upon his throne. And a seat was set for the king's mother, and she sat on his right hand. 20. And she said: I make a small request of thee, that thou shalt not shame my face. And the king said unto her, Please, my mother, I will not shame thy face. 21. And she said, Let Abishag of Sunem give Adonijah thy brother to wife. 22. And king Solomon answered and said unto his mother, Why askest thou Abishag of Sunem the Adonite? Ask him the kingdom also; for he is my greatest brother, and hath Abiathar the priest, and Joab the son of Zeruiah. 23. And king Solomon sware by the LORD, saying, God do this unto me, and this unto me: Adonijah hath spoken this against his life. 24. And now, as the LORD liveth, which hath confirmed me, and made me to sit upon the throne of David my father, and hath made me an house, as he spake, this day shall Adonijah die. 25. And king Solomon sent by Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, which smote him, and he died. 26. And the king said unto Abiathar the priest, Go to Anathoth unto thy field: for thou art dead. But I will not kill thee this day: for thou hast borne the ark of the LORD before David my father, and hast suffered where my father suffered. 27. So Solomon put away Abiathar, that he should not be the priest of the LORD, that the word of the LORD might be fulfilled, which he spake concerning the house of Eli in Shiloh. 28. And the rumour came before Joab: for Joab was attached to Adonijah, though not to Absalom. And Joab fled into the tabernacle of the LORD, and took hold on the horns of the altar. 29. And it was told king Solomon that Joab was fled to the tabernacle of the LORD: and, behold, he stood by the altar. Then Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, saying, Go, smite him. 30. And when Benaiah was come to the tabernacle of the LORD, he said unto him, Thus saith the king, Go forth. And he said, Nay, I will die here. And Benaiah told the king these things again, saying, Thus spake Joab, and thus answered he me. 31. And the king said unto him, Do as he hath spoken, and smite him, and bury him, that thou mayest put away from me the blood which Joab hath shed for nought, and from my father's house, 32. And let the LORD pay him for his blood upon his head, because he smote two men more righteous and better than he, and slew them with the sword: and David my father knew not any thing of it, Abner the son of Ner, captain of the host over Israel, and Amasa the son of Jether, captain of the host over Judah; 33. And their blood shall be paid upon the head of Joab, and upon the head of his seed for ever: and David, and his seed, and his house, and his throne, shall have peace in the sight of the LORD for ever. 34. And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada went up, and smote him, and slew him. And he was buried in his house in the wilderness. 35. And the king set Benaiah the son of Jehoiada in his stead over the host: and the king set Zadok the priest in the stead of Abiathar. 36. And the king sent and called Shimei, and said unto him, Build thee an house at Jerusalem, and dwell there; and go not out thence, either hither or thither. 37. When thou goest forth, and passest over the brook Kidron, know that thou shalt surely die: thy blood shall be upon thy head. 38. And Shimei said unto the king: This is a good opinion; as my lord the king hath spoken, so shall thy servant do. So Shimei dwelt in Jerusalem a long time. 39. And it came to pass about three years, that two servants ran away from Shimei to Achish the son of Maechah king of Gath. And it was told Shimei, Behold, thy servants are at Gath. 40. And Shimei arose, and saddled his ass, and went to Gath to Achish, to seek his servants. And when he was come, he brought his servants from Gath. 41. And it was told Solomon, saying, Shimei is departed from Jerusalem unto Gath, and is come again. 42. And the king sent and called Shimei, and said unto him, Did I not swear unto thee by the LORD, and testify unto thee, saying, What day thou shalt go forth, and go hither or thither, and know that thou must surely die? And thou saidst unto me, I have heard a good report. 43. Why then hast thou not kept the oath of the LORD, and the commandment which I commanded thee? 44. And the king said unto Shimei, Thou knowest all the wickedness that thine heart is conscious of, which thou hast done unto David my father: the LORD hath paid thy wickedness upon thy head. 45. And king Solomon is blessed, and the throne of David shall be established before the LORD for ever. 46. And the king commanded Benaiah the son of Jehoiada; and he went out, and smote him, and he died. And the kingdom was established by the hand of Solomon. (1 Kings) Chapter 3 Solomon's marriage, prayer and judgment. 1. And Solomon made friends with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had enlarged his house, and the house of the LORD, and the walls about Jerusalem. 2. But the people sacrificed yet in the high places: for there was not yet a house built unto the name of the LORD until that time. 3. And Solomon loved the LORD, and walked after the manner of David his father, without sacrificing and burning incense in the high places. 4. And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there: for that was a glorious high place. And Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings upon the same altar. 5. And the LORD appeared unto Solomon in Gibeon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee. 6. And Solomon said, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David thy servant my father, as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart before thee: and thou hast kept this great mercy unto him, and hast given him a son to sit upon his throne, as it is now. 7. Now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king in the stead of David my father. I am a little child, and know not my way out, nor my way in. 8. And thy servant is great among the people whom thou hast chosen, that no man can number them, nor describe them before the multitude. 9. Then give thou thy servant an obedient heart, that he may judge thy people, and understand what is good and what is evil. For who is able to judge this mighty people of thine? 10. And it pleased the LORD that Solomon asked such a thing. 11. And God said unto him, Because thou askest these things, and askest not for long life, nor for riches, nor for the soul of thine enemies, but for understanding to hear judgment, 12. Behold, thus have I done according to thy words. Behold, I have given thee a heart of wisdom and understanding; there was none like thee before thee, neither shall there be any like thee after thee. 13. Forasmuch as thou hast not asked, I have given thee riches and honour: there is none like thee among kings in thy days. 14. And if thou wilt walk in my ways, and keep my statutes and my commandments, as David thy father walked, I will give thee long life. 15. And when Solomon awoke, behold, it was a dream. And he came to Jerusalem, and stood before the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and made a great supper unto all his servants. 16. At that time came two harlots unto the king, and stood before him. 17. And the one woman said, Oh my lord, I and this woman dwelt in one house; and I lay with her in the house. 18. And about three days after I gave birth she gave birth also: and we were together, that there was no stranger in the house with us, save we both. 19. And the son of that woman died in the night: for she had crushed him in his sleep. 20. And she arose in the night, and took my son from my side, while thine handmaid slept, and laid him upon her arm, and her dead son she laid upon my arm. 21. And when I arose in the morning to nurse my son, behold, he was dead. But in the morning I looked on him, and, behold, he was not my son that I had brought forth. 22. And the other woman said, Not so; my son liveth, and thy son is dead. And she said, Not so; thy son is dead, and my son liveth. And they spake thus before the king. 23. And the king said, This saith, My son liveth, and thy son is dead: that saith, Not so; thy son is dead, and my son liveth. 24. And the king said, Bring me a sword. And when the sword was brought before the king, 25. And the king said, Divide the living child into two parts, and give the one half, and the other half. 26. Then said the woman, whose son was alive, unto the king, (for her motherly heart was kindled against her son,) Alas, my lord, give her the child alive, and kill it not. But she said, Let it be neither mine nor thine; let it be divided. 27. And the king answered and said, Give this child alive, and kill him not: she is his mother. 28. And the judgment went out before all Israel, which the king had judged: and they feared the king, because they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to execute judgment. (1 Kings) Chapter 4 Solomon's officers, glory and wisdom. 1. So Solomon was king over all Israel. 2. And these were his princes; Azariah the son of Zadok the priest, 3. Elihoreph and Ahijah the sons of Sisha were scribes. Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was chancellor. 4. Jehoiada's son, was captain of the host. Zadok and Abiathar were priests. 5. Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers. Zabud the son of Nathan the priest was the king's friend. 6. Ahishar was chamberlain: Adoniram the son of Abda was chamberlain. 7. And Solomon had twelve officers over all Israel, to minister unto the king and to his house. And one of them had a month's supply in the year. 8. And they were called the son of Hur in mount Ephraim; 9. The son of Dezer in Makaz, and in Saalbim, and in Bethshemesh, and in Elon, and in Bethhanan; 10. The son of Heshed in Aruboth: and he had Shocho, and all the land of Hepher; 11. The son of Abinadab: all the dominion of Dor; and would have Taphath the daughter of Solomon to wife; 12. Baena the son of Ahilud, in Taenah, and in Megiddo, and over all Bethshean, which is beside Zarthanah under Jezreel, from Bethshean even unto the plain of Meholah, even beyond Jehakmeam; 13. The son of Giver in Ramoth in Gilead: and he had the spots of Jair the son of Manasseh in Gilead, and had the region of Argob, which is in Bashan, threescore and ten great cities, walled, and with bars of brass; 14. Ahinadab the son of Iddo, to Mahanaim; 15. Ahimaaz in Naphtali: and he also took Solomon's daughter Basmath to wife; 16. Baena the son of Husai, in Asher, and in Aloth; 17. Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar; 18. Shimei the son of Elah, in Benjamin; 19. Geber the son of Us, in the land of Gilead, in the land of Sihon king of the Amorites, and of Og king of Bashan; a minister was in the same land. 20. And Judah and Israel were as the sand of the sea: and they did eat and drink, and were merry. 21. So Solomon was lord over all the kingdoms from the waters of the Philistines' country unto the border of Egypt, which brought him gifts, and served him all the days of his life. 22. And Solomon had daily for meat thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of other flour, 23. And ten fatted oxen, and twenty hinds, and an hundred sheep, beside the deer, and the roe deer, and the chamois, and the fatted cattle. 24. For he reigned over all the land that was on this side the river, from Tiphsah even unto Gaza, over all the kings that were on this side the river, and had peace of all his subjects round about, 25. And Judah and Israel dwelt safely every man under his vine, and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon. 26. And Solomon had forty thousand chariot horses, and twelve thousand horsemen. 27. And the officers fed king Solomon, and all that belonged to the king's table, every man in his month, and lacked nothing. 28. And they brought barley and straw for the horses and for the horsemen unto the place where he was, every man according to his commandment. 29. And God gave Solomon very great wisdom, and understanding, and a heart as calm as the sand that lieth by the sea shore, 30. That the wisdom of Solomon was greater than all the children of the morning, and the wisdom of all the Egyptians. 31. And he was wiser than all men, and wiser than the poets, Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcolah, and Darda: and he was renowned among all the heathen round about. 32. And he spake three thousand proverbs, and his songs were a thousand and five. 33. And he spake of trees, from the cedar of Lebanon unto hyssop that groweth out of the wall. And he spake of cattle, and of birds, and of creeping things, and of fishes. 34. And there came out of all nations to hear the wisdom of Solomon, of all the kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom. (1 Kings) Chapter 5 Solomon's covenant with Hiram in preparation for building the temple. 1. And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon: for he had heard that they had anointed him king in his father's stead. For Hiram loved David all the days of his life. 2. And Solomon sent to Hiram, saying: 3. Thou knowest that David my father could not build an house unto the name of the LORD his God, because of the war that was about him, until the LORD put them under the soles of his feet. 4. But now the LORD my God hath given me rest round about, that there is no more adversary nor evil hindrance. 5. Behold, I have thought to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God, as the LORD spake unto David my father, saying, Thy son, whom I will set in thy stead upon thy throne, shall build an house unto my name. 6. Now therefore command that cedars be hewn for me out of Lebanon, and that thy servants be with my servants. And the wages of thy servants will I give thee, all as thou sayest. You know that we have no one who knows how to cut wood like the Zidonians. 7. And when Hiram heard the words of Solomon, he rejoiced greatly, and said, Blessed be the LORD this day, which hath given David a wise son over this great people. 8. And Hiram sent unto Solomon, saying, I have heard that thou hast sent unto me. I will do according to all thy desire with cedars and with fir wood. 9. And my servants shall bring them down from Lebanon unto the sea; and I will lay them in rafts upon the sea unto the place which thou shalt tell me: and there I will bind them, and thou shalt fetch them. And thou shalt do my desire, and give meat unto my servants. 10. So Hiram gave Solomon cedar and fir wood according to all his desire. 11. And Solomon gave unto Hiram twenty thousand measures of wheat to eat for his servants, and twenty measures of olive oil. And Solomon gave them to Hiram yearly. 12. And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as he had spoken unto him. And there was peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they made both of them a covenant together. 13. And Solomon put a number upon all Israel; and the number was thirty thousand men. 14. And he sent them into Lebanon, ten thousand and one month; and they were in Lebanon one month, and at home two months. And Adoniram was over such a number. 15. And Solomon had seventy thousand that bare burdens, and fourscore thousand that carpentered in the mount, 16. Without the chief officers of Solomon, which were set over the work, even three thousand and three hundred, which had the rule over the people that wrought in the work. 17. And the king commanded that they should break out great and precious stones, even hewn stones for the foundation of the house. 18. And the builders of Solomon, and the builders of Hiram, and the builders of Giblim, cut out, and prepared wood and stones to build the house. (1 Kings) Chapter 6 The construction of the temple will be completed in seven years. 1. In the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel came out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of the reign of Solomon over Israel, in the month Sif, which is the other moon, was the house built unto the LORD. 2. Now the house which king Solomon built for the LORD was threescore cubits long, and twenty cubits broad, and thirty cubits high. 3. And they built a hall before the temple, twenty cubits long, according to the breadth of the house, and ten cubits broad before the house. 4. And he made the windows of the house wide within, and narrow without. 5. And he built a border upon the wall of the house round about, to go round about the temple and the choir; and made the outer wall thereof round about. 6. The lowest course was five cubits, and the middle course six cubits, and the third course seven cubits: for he put banners round about the house without, that they might not cleave unto the wall of the house. 7. And when the house was set in order, the stones were first made ready, so that no hammer or axe or iron tool was heard in the building. 8. And there was a door on the right side in the midst of the house, that went up by turnstones into the middle passage, and from the middle passage into the third. 9. So he built the house, and finished it: and he sprinkled the house with cedar, both above and on the walls. 10. He built also a passage upon the top of the whole house, five cubits high, and covered the house with cedar. 11. And the word of the LORD came unto Solomon, saying; 12. This is the house which thou shalt build. If thou wilt walk in my statutes, and do according to my judgments, and keep all my commandments to walk therein, I will confirm my word with thee, as I spake unto David thy father. 13. And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake my people Israel. 14. So Solomon built the house, and finished it. 15. And he built the walls of the house within on the sides of cedar, from the floor of the house even unto the top thereof; and he lined it with wood within, and wainscoted the floor of the house with fir boards. 16. And he built at the back of the house twenty cubits, a wall of cedar from the floor to the top; and there he built the choir within, and the holy of holies. 17. But the house of the temple (before the choir) was forty cubits long, 18. Within the house was all the cedar, with twisted knots and flowers, that there was not a stone to be seen. 19. And he prepared the choir within the house, that the ark of the covenant of the LORD might be put there. 20. And before the choir, which was twenty cubits long, and twenty cubits broad, and twenty cubits high, and overlaid with pure gold, he sprinkled the altar with cedar. 21. And Solomon overlaid the house within with pure gold, and set up bars of gold before the choir, which he overlaid with gold, 22. So that the whole house was overlaid with gold: and he overlaid the whole altar before the choir with gold. 23. He made also in the choir two cherubims, ten cubits high, of olive wood. 24. Five cubits was the wing of every cherub, ten cubits from the end of his one wing unto the end of his other wing. 25. So the other cherub also had ten cubits, and was of the same measure and of the same space of both the cherubims, 26. So that every cherub was ten cubits high. 27. And he put the cherubims within the house. And the cherubims spread forth their wings, and one wing touched this wall, and the other cherub's wing touched the other wall: and in the midst of the house one wing touched another. 28. And he overlaid the cherubims with gold. 29. And upon all the walls of the house round about he made carvings of cherubims hollowed out, and palm trees, and flowers, within and without. 30. And he overlaid the floor of the house with plates of gold within and without. 31. And in the entry of the choir he made two doors of olive wood, with five-feet posts. 32. And made carvings thereon of cherubims, and palm trees, and flowers; and overlaid them with plates of gold. 33. So he made also in the entering in of the temple foursquare posts of olive wood. 34. And two doors of fir wood: and every door had two leaves hanging together upon the hinges thereof. 35. And he carved thereon cherubims, and palm trees, and flowers; and overlaid them with gold, according to the commandment. 36. And he built a court within of three bows of hewn stones, and of a cord of hewed cedars. 37. In the fourth year, in the month Sif, was the foundation laid of the house of the LORD. 38. And in the eleventh year, in the month of Bul (which is the eighth moon), the house was prepared, as it should be, that they should build it seven years. (1 Kings) Chapter 7 Fabrication of the royal houses and the vessels of the temple. 1. But Solomon built his house thirteen years, and made it complete. 2. Namely, he built an house of the forest of Lebanon, an hundred cubits long, fifty cubits broad, and thirty cubits high. And upon the same four quarters he laid the floor of cedar boards, upon cedar pillars, according to the staves, 3. And upon the top thereof a room of cedars upon the same pillars, which were forty and five, fifteen in a row. 4. And were windows against the three squares over against each other, three against three. 5. And were foursquare in their posts. 6. And he built a hall of pillars fifty cubits long, and thirty cubits broad; and another hall before it, with pillars and thick beams. 7. And he built also a hall for the judgment seat, where they judged: and he wainscoted both the floors with cedar. 8. And his house, where he dwelt, was in the court of the back of the hall, made like unto the other houses: and he made a house like unto the hall for Pharaoh's daughter, whom Solomon had taken to wife. 9. All these were precious stones, hewn with angle iron, cut with saws on every side, from the foundation even to the roof, and the great court without. 10. And the foundations also were precious and great stones, ten cubits and eight cubits, 11. and thereon precious hewn stones after the angle iron and cedars. 12. And the great court round about had three courses of hewn stone, and one course of cedar boards; so also the court of the house of the LORD within, and the hall of the house. 13. And king Solomon sent and fetched Hiram of Tyre, 14. The son of a widow, of the tribe of Naphtali; and his father was a man of Tyre: he was a master of brass, full of wisdom, and understanding, and skill in working all manner of brass. And when he came to king Solomon, he made all his works. 15. And he made two pillars of brass, every one eighteen cubits high; and a cord of twelve cubits was the measure of every pillar. 16. And he made two knobs of brass to be set upon the top of the pillars, and every knob was five cubits high. 17. And on every knob of the top of the pillar were seven plaited hoops, like chains. 18. And he made on every pommel two rows of pomegranates round about in one hoop, to cover the pommel. 19. And the knobs were as the roses before the hall, four cubits high. 20. And the pomegranates that were in the staves round about were two hundred, above and below the hoop that went round about the belly of the pommel, on every pommel on both pillars. 21. And he set up the pillars before the hall of the temple. And which he set on the right hand he called Jachin; and which he set on the left hand he called Boaz. 22. And it stood upon the pillars like roses. So the work of the pillars was finished. 23. And he made a sea of water ten cubits broad, from brim to brim, round about, and five cubits high; and a cord thirty cubits long was the measure round about. 24. And about the same sea, which was ten cubits broad, there were knots in the border thereof round about the sea: and the knots were two tiers cast. 25. And there stood upon twelve oxen, of which three were toward the north, and three toward the west, and three toward the south, and three toward the east: and the sea was upon them, and all their hind parts were inward. 26. And the thickness thereof was an handbreadth, and the brim thereof was as the brim of a cup, as a rose sprung up: and it went in for two thousand baths. 27. And he made ten stands of brass, each four cubits long and broad, and three cubits high. 28. And the stalls were so made, that they had sides between the fillets. 29. And on the sides between the borders were lions, and oxen, and cherubims. And the sides where the lions and the oxen were had ledges above and below, and little feet thereon. 30. And every chair had four brass wheels with a brass frame. And on the four corners were cast armpits, every one over against the other, leaning down against the caldron. 31. But the neck in the midst of the stalls was a cubit high, and about a cubit and a half wide; and there were humps in the neck in squares, and not round. 32. And the four wheels were at the bottom of the sides, and the axles of the wheels were upon the stalls. Each wheel was a cubit and a half high. 33. And the wheels were like chariot wheels, and their axles, and hubs, and spokes, and rims, were all cast. 34. And the four armpits of the four corners of every stall were also in the stalls. 35. And at the neck, on the top of the chair, half a cubit high, round about, were ledges and sides on the chair. 36. And he digged on the surface of the same sides and borders cherubims, and lions, and palm trees; every one by the other round about. 37. And in this manner he made ten chairs, cast, of the same measure, and of the same space, in all of them. 38. And he made ten brasen caldrons, that forty baths might go into one caldron: and the caldron was four cubits high, and upon every throne was a caldron. 39. And he set five chairs at the right hand corner of the house, and the other five at the left hand corner: and he set the sea on the right hand before the south. 40. And Hiram also made pots, and shovels, and basons; and finished all the works which king Solomon made in the house of the LORD, 41. Namely, the two pillars, and the two censers on the top of the two pillars, and the two plaited bands to cover the two censers on the pillars; 42. and the four hundred pomegranates on the two wreathed hoops, two rows of pomegranates on each hoop, to cover the two pommels on the pillars; 43. Plus the ten pews and ten kettles on top; 44. And the sea, and twelve oxen under the sea; 45. And the pots, and the shovels, and the beckons. And all these vessels, which Hiram made for king Solomon in the house of the LORD, were of pure brass. 46. In the region of Jordan the king cast them, in thick earth, between Shukoth and Zarthan. 47. And Solomon left all the vessels unweighed before the very great multitude of the brass. 48. Solomon also made all the vessels of the house of the LORD, a golden altar, and a golden table, whereon the shewbread was laid; 49. Five candlesticks on the right hand, and five candlesticks on the left hand, before the choir, of pure gold, with flowers of gold, and lamps, and snows; 50. And bowls, and dishes, and basons, and spoons, and pans, of pure gold. And the hinges of the door of the inner house of the holy of holies, and of the door of the house of the temple, were of gold. 51. So all the work that king Solomon did in the house of the LORD was finished. And Solomon brought in the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, which David his father had hallowed, and put them in the treasury of the house of the LORD. (1 Kings) Chapter 8 The temple of Solomon is dedicated. 1. Then king Solomon gathered unto him the elders of Israel, all the princes of the tribes, and the rulers of the fathers of the children of Israel, unto Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which is Zion. 2. And there were gathered together unto king Solomon all the men of Israel in the month Ethanim, in the feast, which is the seventh moon. 3. And when all the elders of Israel were come, the priests lifted up the ark of the LORD, 4. And they brought them up, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the vessels of the sanctuary that were in the tabernacle. And the priests and the Levites did so. 5. And king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel that were gathered unto him, went with him before the ark, and offered sheep and oxen so much that they could not be numbered nor reckoned. 6. So the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD into their place, into the choir of the house, into the holy of holies, under the wings of the cherubims. 7. For the cherubims spread forth their wings in the place where the ark stood, and covered the ark and the staves thereof from above. 8. And the rods were so long, that the pommels thereof were seen in the sanctuary before the choir, but they were not seen without: and they were there unto this day. 9. And there was nothing in the ark, save the two tables of stone of Moses, which he left there in Horeb, when the LORD made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of the land of Egypt. 10. And as the priests went out of the sanctuary, a cloud filled the house of the LORD, 11. So that the priests could not stand and minister before the cloud. For the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD. 12. And Solomon said, The LORD hath spoken that he will dwell in darkness. 13. For I have built thee an house for thy dwelling, a habitation, that thou mayest dwell therein for ever. 14. And the king turned his face, and blessed all the congregation of Israel: and all the congregation of Israel stood. 15. And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which spake by his mouth unto David my father, and fulfilled by his hand, saying: 16. From the day that I brought forth my people Israel out of Egypt, I have not mentioned a city among any tribe of Israel, to build me an house, that my name might be there: but David have I mentioned to be over my people Israel. 17. And my father David purposed to build an house unto the name of the LORD God of Israel; 18. And the LORD said unto David my father, Because thou hast purposed to build an house for my name, thou hast done well to undertake it; 19. But thou shalt not build the house, but the son that shall come out of thy loins, he shall build an house for my name. 20. And the LORD hath confirmed his word which he spake. For I am risen up in the stead of David my father. And I sit upon the throne of Israel, as the LORD hath spoken; and have built an house unto the name of the LORD God of Israel. 21. And I have prepared there a place for the ark, wherein is the covenant of the LORD, which he made with our fathers, when he brought them up out of the land of Egypt. 22. And Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD against all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven. 23. And he said, O LORD God of Israel, there is no God like unto thee in heaven above, or in the earth beneath, that keepeth covenant and mercy unto thy servants which walk before thee with all their heart: 24. Who hast kept unto thy servant David my father that which thou hast spoken unto him. With thy mouth hast thou spoken it, and with thine hand hast thou fulfilled it, as it is this day. 25. Now therefore, O LORD God of Israel, keep unto thy servant David my father that which thou hast spoken unto him, saying, There shall not fail thee a man before me, that sitteth upon the throne of Israel: yet let thy children keep their way, that they may walk before me, as thou hast walked before me. 26. Now therefore, O God of Israel, let thy words come to pass, which thou hast spoken unto thy servant David my father. 27. For thinkest thou that God dwelleth on the earth? Behold, the heavens and all the heavens may not provide for thee. How then shall this house which I have built? 28. But turn to the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplications, O LORD my God, that thou mayest hear the praise and the prayer which thy servant maketh before thee this day, 29. That thine eyes may be open upon this house night and day, upon the place of which thou hast said: My name shall be there. Thou shalt hear the prayer that thy servant maketh in this place, 30. And hear the supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, which they shall do in this thy dwelling place which is in heaven; and when thou hearest it, be gracious. 31. If a man sin against his neighbour, and take an oath upon him to be bound, and the oath come before thine altar in this house, 32. Then hear thou in heaven, and do justice unto thy servants, to condemn the wicked, and to bring his way upon his head, and to judge the righteous, to give him according to his righteousness. 33. When thy people Israel are smitten before their enemies, because they have sinned against thee, and turn unto thee, and confess thy name, and pray, and make supplication unto thee, in this house, 34. Then hear thou in heaven, and be merciful to the sin of thy people Israel, and bring them again into the land which thou gavest unto their fathers. 35. When the heavens are shut up, that it rain not, because they have sinned against thee, and shall pray in this place, and confess thy name, and turn from their sins, because thou hast urged them, 36. Then hear thou in heaven, and have mercy on the sin of thy servants, and on thy people Israel, to shew them the good way wherein they shall walk, and to rain upon the land which thou hast given thy people for an inheritance. 37. If there be a famine, or pestilence, or drought, or blight, or locusts, or caterpillars in the land, or his enemy in the land besiege his gates, or any plague or disease: 38. Then whosoever shall ask and beseech, whether it be men or thy people Israel, when they perceive their plague, every man in his heart shall spread out his hands unto this house, 39. Then hear thou in heaven, in the place where thou dwellest, and be gracious, and provide that thou mayest give every man according as he hath walked, as thou knowest his heart: for thou only knowest the heart of all the children of men; 40. That they may fear thee alway, as long as they dwell in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers. 41. Though a stranger, which is not of thy people Israel, come from a far country for thy name's sake 42. (for they shall hear of thy great name, and of thy mighty hand, and of thy outstretched arm), and come to pray before this house, 43. Then hear thou in heaven, in the habitation of thy dwelling, and do according to all that the stranger calleth unto thee, that all people of the earth may know thy name, and fear thee, as do thy people Israel; and that they may know how that house is called by thy name, which I have built. 44. When thy people go forth to battle against their enemies of the way which thou shalt send them, and they shall pray unto the LORD by the way of the city which thou hast chosen, and by the house which I have built for thy name, 45. then thou wilt hear their prayer and supplication in heaven, and wilt establish justice. 46. If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and give them up before their enemies, that they may carry them captive into the enemy's country, far or near, 47. And they shall smite in their hearts in the land wherein they are captives, and shall be converted, and shall cry unto thee in the land of their captivity, saying: We have sinned and transgressed, and have been ungodly; 48. And they turn unto thee with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their enemies, which they have carried away, and pray unto thee toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, toward the city which thou hast chosen, and toward the house which I have built for thy name: 49. Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication in heaven, from thy dwelling place, and do justice, 50. And be merciful unto thy people that have sinned against thee, and to all their transgressions, that they have transgressed against thee; and have mercy upon them that hold them captive, and have compassion on them. 51. For they are thy people and thine inheritance, whom thou hast brought out of Egypt out of the iron furnace; 52. That thine eyes may be open unto the supplications of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, that thou mayest hear them in all things wherefore they call upon thee. 53. For thou hast separated them unto thee for an inheritance out of all the people of the earth, as thou spakest by the hand of Moses thy servant, when thou broughtest up our fathers out of Egypt, O LORD, O LORD. 54. And when Solomon had prayed all this prayer and supplication before the LORD, he arose from the altar of the LORD, and left off kneeling, and spreading out his hands toward heaven. 55. And he stood there, and blessed all the congregation of Israel with a loud voice, saying: 56. Blessed be the LORD, which hath given rest unto his people Israel, as he spake. Not one of his good words, which he spake by his servant Moses, hath perished. 57. May the LORD our God be with us, as he was with our fathers. Let him not forsake us, nor withdraw his hand from us, 58. To incline our hearts unto him, that we may walk in all his ways, and keep his commandments, and his statutes, and his judgments, which he commanded our fathers. 59. And these words, which I have prayed before the LORD, must come near unto the LORD our God day and night, to do judgment unto his servant, and to do judgment unto his people Israel, every one in his season, 60. That all the nations of the earth may know that the LORD is GOD, and none more. 61. And let your heart be righteous with the LORD our God, to walk in his customs, and to keep his commandments, as it is this day. 62. And the king and all Israel offered sacrifices before the LORD. 63. And Solomon offered peace offerings, which he offered unto the LORD, twenty and two thousand oxen, and an hundred and twenty thousand sheep. So they dedicated the house of the LORD, the king, and all the children of Israel. 64. And the king consecrated the middle court that was before the house of the LORD the same day, to set there the burnt offering, and the meat offering, and the fat of the peace offerings. For the brass altar that stood before the LORD was too small for the burnt offering, the grain offering, and the fat of the peace offerings. 65. And Solomon made a feast at that time, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the border of Hemath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days and seven days; which was fourteen days. 66. And he sent the people away the eighth day. And they blessed the king, and went unto their tents rejoicing, and of good cheer, because of all the good that the LORD had done for David his servant, and for Israel his people. (1 Kings) Chapter 9 The Lord appears to Solomon the second time. Fortified Cities. Navigation. 1. And when Solomon had built the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all that he desired and longed to do, he began to build the house of the LORD. 2. The Lord appeared unto him the second time, as he appeared unto him in Gibeon. 3. And the LORD said unto him, I have heard thy prayer and thy supplication, which thou hast made before me, and have sanctified this house, which thou hast built to put my name there for ever: mine eyes and mine heart shall be there for ever. 4. And thou, if thou walk before me as David thy father walked, with a righteous heart and uprightness, to do all that I have commanded thee, and to keep my commandments and my statutes, 5. Then will I confirm the throne of thy kingdom upon Israel for ever, as I spake unto David thy father, saying, There shall no man fail thee from the throne of Israel. 6. But if ye turn away from me behind, ye and your children, and keep not my commandments and my statutes which I have set before you, and go and serve other gods, and worship them, 7. Then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have given them; and the house which I have hallowed for my name will I forsake out of my sight: and Israel shall be a proverb and a fable among all people; 8. And the house shall be pulled down; and all that pass by shall be astonished, and shall blaspheme, and say, Why hath the LORD done this thing unto this land, and unto this house? 9. And they shall answer, Because they have forsaken the LORD their God, which brought their fathers out of the land of Egypt, and have taken other gods, and worshipped them, and served them: therefore hath the LORD brought all this evil upon them. 10. And it came to pass, when the twenty years were expired, in the which Solomon built the two houses, the house of the LORD, and the king's house, 11. And when Hiram king of Tyre had brought Solomon cedar trees, and fir trees, and gold, according to all that he desired, king Solomon gave unto Hiram twenty cities in the land of Galilee. 12. And Hiram went out from Tyre to see the cities which Solomon had given him, and they pleased him not. 13. And said, What are these cities, my brother, which thou hast given me? And called them the land of Kabul unto this day. 14. And Hiram had sent unto the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold. 15. And the same is the sum of the increase which king Solomon began to build the house of the LORD, and his house, and Millo, and the walls of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gaser. 16. For Pharaoh king of Egypt had come up, and taken Gase, and burned it with fire, and slain the Canaanites that dwelt in the city, and given it for a present unto his daughter Solomon's wife. 17. So Solomon built Gaser, and the lower Beth-horon. 18. And Baelath and Tamar in the wilderness of the land. 19. And all the cities of the granaries which Solomon had, and all the cities of the chariots, and the cities of the horsemen, and whatsoever he pleased to build, in Jerusalem, and in Lebanon, and in all the land of his dominion. 20. And all the rest of the people of the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, which were not of the children of Israel, 21. The same children which they left behind them in the land, whom the children of Israel could not utterly destroy, Solomon made to pay interest unto this day. 22. But of the children of Israel made he not servants, but made them men of war, and his servants, and princes, and knights, and over his chariots, and horsemen. 23. And the officers that were over Solomon's business were five hundred and fifty, which ruled over the people, and did the business. 24. And Pharaoh's daughter went up from the city of David unto her house, which he had built for her. And he built Millo also. 25. And Solomon offered burnt offerings and peace offerings three times in the year upon the altar which he had built unto the LORD, and burnt incense upon it before the LORD. And the house was finished. 26. And Solomon also made ships at Ezeon-giver, which is by Eloth, on the shore of the Red sea, in the land of Edom. 27. And Hiram sent his servants in the ship, which were good shipmen, and experienced in the sea, with the servants of Solomon. 28. And they came to Ophir, and took there four hundred and twenty talents of gold, and brought it unto king Solomon. (1 Kings) Chapter 10 The Queen of Imperial Arabia marvels at Solomon's wisdom, wealth and glory. 1. And when the rumour of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD came before the queen of Arabia, she came to try him with riddles. 2. And she came to Jerusalem with a very great company, with camels bearing spices, and much gold and precious stones. And when she was come in unto king Solomon, she spake unto him all that she had undertaken. 3. And Solomon told her all things, and there was nothing hid from the king that he told her not. 4. And when the queen of Arabia saw all the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built, 5. And the meat for his table, and for his servants' dwelling, and for his servants' service, and for their garments, and for his gifts, and for his burnt offerings, which he offered in the house of the LORD, she could no more abstain from them. 6. And he said unto the king: It is true what I have heard in my country of thy nature and of thy wisdom. 7. And I believed it not, till I came, and saw it with mine own eyes. And, behold, I was not told the half of it. Thou hast more wisdom and good than the rumour that I have heard. 8. Blessed are thy people, and thy servants, which stand always before thee, and hear thy wisdom. 9. Blessed be the LORD thy God, which hath pleased thee to set thee on the throne of Israel: because the LORD loveth Israel for ever, and hath made thee king, to execute judgment and justice. 10. And she gave unto the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and very much spices and precious stones. And there came no more so much spices, as the queen of Arabia gave to king Solomon. 11. And the ships of Hiram, which brought gold out of Ophir, brought very much ebony and precious stones. 12. And the king made pillars of ebony in the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and harps, and psalteries for the singers. And the ebony came no more, neither was it seen unto this day. 13. And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all that she desired and asked, without that he gave her of himself. And she turned, and went into her own land with her servants. 14. And the weight of the gold that came to Solomon in one year was six hundred threescore and six talents, 15. Without that which came from merchants and traders and apothecaries, and from all the kings of Arabia, and from the mighty men of the countries. 16. And king Solomon made two hundred shields of the best gold, and put six hundred pieces of gold for a shield; 17. And three hundred chargers of the best gold, three pounds of gold for every charger. And the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon. 18. And the king made a great chair of ivory, and overlaid it with the most precious gold. 19. And the chair had six steps, and the head of the chair was round behind. And there were rests on either side round about the buttocks; and two lions stood by the rests. 20. And twelve lions stood upon the six steps on either side. Such a thing is never done in any kingdom. 21. All the drinking vessels of king Solomon were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of gold: for silver was not esteemed in the days of Solomon. 22. For the king's ship that sailed in the sea with Hiram's ship came once in three years, and brought gold, and silver, and ivory, and apes, and peacocks. 23. So king Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the kings of the earth. 24. And all the world desired to see Solomon, that they might hear the wisdom which God had put into his heart. 25. And every man brought him gifts of silver, and of vessels of gold, and of raiment, and of armour, and of spices, and of horses, and of mouths yearly. 26. And Solomon brought chariots and horsemen in abundance, and had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen: and he left them in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem. 27. And the king made the silver of Jerusalem as much as the stones, and the cedar as much as the wild fig trees of the valley. 28. And they brought Solomon horses out of Egypt, and all manner of merchandise: and the king's merchants bought the same merchandise. 29. And they brought them out of Egypt, a chariot for six hundred pieces of silver, and a horse for an hundred and fifty. And they brought them by their hand unto all the kings of the Hittites, and to the kings of Syria. (1 Kings) Chapter 11 Solomon's wives, idolatry, enemies and death. 1. But king Solomon loved many foreign wives, Pharaoh's daughter, and Moabites, and Ammonites, and Edomites, and Zidonites, and Hittites, 2. Of such nations as the LORD had said unto the children of Israel, Go not unto them, neither let them come unto you: they will surely incline your hearts after their gods. To these Solomon clave with love. 3. And he had seven hundred wives to wife, and three hundred concubines: and his wives inclined his heart. 4. And when he was old, his wives inclined his heart after strange gods, so that his heart was not entire with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father. 5. So Solomon walked after Ashtoreth the god of Zidon, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 6. And Solomon did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and followed not the LORD wholly, as David his father did. 7. Then Solomon built a high place for Kamos the abomination of Moab in the mount that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech the abomination of the Ammonites. 8. So did Solomon to all his foreign wives, which burned incense and sacrificed unto their gods. 9. And the LORD was wroth with Solomon, because his heart was displeased with the LORD God of Israel, which twice appeared unto him. 10. And had commanded him that he should not walk after other gods, and yet had not kept that which the LORD commanded him. 11. Therefore said the LORD unto Solomon, Because these things have been done unto thee, and thou hast not kept my covenant and my commandments which I commanded thee, I will also rend the kingdom from thee, and give it unto thy servant. 12. But in thy days I will not do it for David thy father's sake; but from the hand of thy son will I pluck it. 13. But I will not cut off the whole kingdom. One tribe will I go unto thy son for David my servant's sake, and for Jerusalem's sake, which I have chosen. 14. And the LORD raised up an adversary unto Solomon, Hadad the Edomite, of royal seed, which was in Edom. 15. For when David was in Edom, and Joab the captain of the host went up to bury the slain, he smote all the men of Edom. 16. For Joab abode there six months, and all Israel, until he had cut off all that was manly in Edom. 17. And Hadad fled, and with him certain men of Edom, of his father's servants, to come into Egypt. And Hadad was a young lad. 18. And they departed from Midian, and came to Paran; and they took men with them out of Paran, and came into Egypt unto Pharaoh king of Egypt: and he gave him an house, and food, and settled him in the land. 19. And Hadad found great favour in the sight of Pharaoh, that he gave him also his wife's sister Tachpenes the queen to wife. 20. And the sister of Tachpenes bare him Genubath his son: and Tachpenes brought him up in Pharaoh's house: and Genubath was in Pharaoh's house among the sons of Pharaoh. 21. And when Hadad heard in Egypt that David slept with his fathers, and that Joab the captain of the host was dead, he said unto Pharaoh, Let me go into my own land. 22. And Pharaoh said unto him, What lackest thou with me, that thou wilt go into thy land? And he said, Nothing: but let me go. 23. Also God raised up for him an adversary, Reson the son of Eliada, who had fled from his master Hadadezer king of Zobah. 24. And he gathered men against him, and became captain of the soldiers, when David slew them: and they went to Damascus, and dwelt there, and reigned in Damascus. 25. And he was Israel's adversary all the days of Solomon. This is the harm that Hadad suffered: therefore he had a loathing against Israel, and reigned over Syria. 26. And Jeroboam the son of Nebat, an Ephrathite of Zareda, Solomon's servant, whose mother's name was Zerugah a widow, lifted up his hand against the king. 27. And this is the cause why he lifted up his hand against the king: When Solomon built Millo, he shut up a breach in the city of David his father. 28. And Jeroboam was a man of valour. And when Solomon saw that the lad was upright, he set him over all the burden of the house of Joseph. 29. And it came to pass in those days, that Jeroboam went out from Jerusalem, and Ahijah the prophet of Shiloh met him in the way, having a new coat upon him: and they were alone in the field. 30. And Ahijah took hold of the new coat which he had on, and rent it into twelve pieces. 31. And he said unto Jeroboam, Take thee ten pieces. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Behold, I will pluck the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon, and will give thee ten tribes. 32. He shall have a tribe for David my servant's sake, and for Jerusalem's sake, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, 33. Because they have forsaken me, and worshipped Ashtoreth the god of the Zidonians, and Kamos the god of Moab, and Milcom the god of the children of Ammon, and have not walked in my ways, to do that which is right in mine eyes, my commandments and my statutes, as David his father did. 54. Neither will I take the whole kingdom out of his hand; but I will make him ruler all the days of his life for David my servant's sake, whom I have chosen, who hath kept my commandments and my statutes. 35. Out of the hand of his son will I take the kingdom; and I will give thee ten tribes. 36. And give his son a tribe, that David my servant may have a lamp before me every way in the city of Jerusalem, which I have chosen to put my name there. 37. Now therefore I will take thee, and thou shalt reign over all that thine heart desireth, and shalt be king over Israel. 38. If thou wilt therefore obey all that I command thee, and walk in my ways, and do that which is right in mine eyes, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as my servant David did; then will I be with thee, and build thee a sure house, as I built David, and will give thee Israel. 39. And will humble the seed of David for this cause, but not for ever. 40. And Solomon sought to kill Jeroboam. And Jeroboam arose, and fled into Egypt unto Sishak king of Egypt: and he tarried in Egypt until Solomon died. 41. And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, are they not written in the book of Chronicles by Solomon? 42. And the time that Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel was forty years. 43. And Solomon slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David his father. And Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead. (1 Kings) Chapter 12 Partition of the kingdom of Solomon. 1. And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king. 2. And Jeroboam the son of Nebat heard it, while he was yet in Egypt, whither he fled from the presence of king Solomon; and he abode in Egypt. 3. And they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came and spake unto Rehoboam, saying: 4. Thy Father hath made our yoke too hard: now therefore make thou the hard service and the heavy yoke lighter, which he hath put upon us, and we will be subject unto thee. 5. And he said unto them: Go ye till the third day, and come again unto me. And the people went. 6. And king Rehoboam took counsel with the elders that were before Solomon his father when he lived, saying, How counsel ye that we should answer this people? 7. And they said unto him, If thou wilt do service unto this people this day, and wilt do them will, and wilt hear them, and wilt speak good words unto them, they shall be servants unto thee all the days of thy life. 8. But he left the counsel of the elders, which they had given him, and held a council with the young men that were brought up with him, and sat before him. 9. And he said unto them: What counsel ye that we should answer this people, who have said unto me: Lighten the yoke which thy Father hath put upon us. 10. And the young men that were brought up with him said unto him, Thou shalt say unto the people that say unto thee, Thy father hath made our yoke too heavy; make thou it lighter for us; thus shalt thou say, My least finger shall be thicker than my father's loins. 11. Now my father hath put a heavy yoke upon you, but I will make it more heavy upon you: my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions. 12. So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king had said, saying: Come again unto me the third day. 13. And the king gave a hard answer unto the people, and forsook the counsel which the elders had given him, 14. And he spake unto them after the counsel of the young men, saying, My father hath made your yoke heavy, but I will make it more heavy upon you: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions. 15. So the king hearkened not unto the people: for it was so wrought of the LORD, that he might confirm his word, which he spake by Ahijah of Shiloh unto Jeroboam the son of Nebat. 16. And when all Israel saw that the king would not hear them, the people answered the king, and said, What have we part in David, or inheritance in the son of Jesse? Arise, O Israel, unto thy tents. Now therefore, David, behold thou unto thy house. So Israel went to his tents, 17. That Rehoboam reigned over the children of Israel only, which dwelt in the cities of Judah. 18. And when king Rehoboam sent Adoram the chamberlain, all Israel cast him down with stones. And king Rehoboam mounted a chariot, and fled to Jerusalem. 19. So Israel fell away from the house of David unto this day. 20. And when all Israel heard that Jeroboam was come again, they sent and called him unto all the congregation, and made him king over all Israel. And none followed the house of David, save the tribe of Judah only. 21. And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered all the house of Judah, and the tribe of Benjamin, an hundred and fourscore thousand young men of valour, to fight against the house of Israel, and to restore the kingdom to Rehoboam the son of Solomon. 22. And the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying: 23. Speak unto Rehoboam the son of Solomon king of Judah, and to all the house of Judah, and to Benjamin, and to the rest of the people, saying: 24. Thus saith the LORD; Ye shall not go up and fight against your brethren the children of Israel; every man return home: for this thing is done of me. And they hearkened unto the word of the LORD, and returned, and went, as the LORD had said. 25. And Jeroboam built Shechem in mount Ephraim, and dwelt therein, and went out thence, and built Pnuel. 26. And Jeroboam thought in his heart, The kingdom shall now fall again to the house of David, 27. And this people shall go up to offer sacrifices in the house of the LORD which is at Jerusalem: and the heart of this people shall turn unto their lord Rehoboam king of Judah, and shall slay me, and fall again unto Rehoboam king of Judah. 28. And the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold, and said unto them: It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold, there are thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt! 29. And he set one at Bethel, and put the other at Dan. 30. And it became a sin: for the people went from before one even unto Dan. 31. He made also a house of high places; and made priests of the least of the people, which were not of the children of Levi. 32. And he made a feast on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, as the plague in Judah, and offered upon the altar. So he did in Bethel, that they sacrificed unto the calves which he had made: and he ordained at Bethel the priests of the high places which he had made. 33. And he offered upon the altar which he had made at Bethel, on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, which he had devised out of his heart, and made feasts for the children of Israel, and offered upon the altar to burn incense. (1 Kings) Chapter 13 Jeroboam's hand withers. A prophet is killed by the lion. 1. And, behold, a man of God came from Judah by the word of the LORD to Bethel: and Jeroboam stood by the altar burning incense. 2. And he cried against the altar by the word of the LORD, saying, Altar, altar, thus saith the LORD; Behold, a son shall be born to the house of David, whose name shall be Josiah; and he shall offer upon thee the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee, and shall burn men's bones upon thee. 3. And he wrought a miracle that day, saying, This is the miracle that the LORD hath spoken; Behold, the altar shall be broken down, and the ashes that are upon it shall be spilt: 4. And when the king heard the word of the man of God that cried against the altar of Bethel, he put forth his hand by the altar, and said, Seize him. And his hand withered, which he had stretched out against him, and could not draw it again to himself. 5. And the altar rent, and the ashes were poured out from off the altar, according to the miracle which the man of God had wrought by the word of the LORD. 6. And the king answered and said unto the man of God, Ask the face of the LORD thy God, and pray for me, that my hand may be restored unto me. And the man of God besought the face of the LORD: and the king's hand was brought again unto him, and was as it was before. 7. And the king spake unto the man of God, saying, Come home with me, and be merry; and I will give thee a present. 8. And the man of God said unto the king: Though thou gavest me half thy house, yet will I not come with thee: for I will not eat bread nor drink water in this place. 9. For thus is it commanded me in the word of the LORD, saying, Thou shalt eat no bread, neither shalt thou drink any water, neither shalt thou return by the way which thou wentest. 10. And he departed by another way, and came not again by the way which he came to Bethel. 11. And there dwelt an old prophet in Bethel; and his son came unto him, and told him all the works that the man of God had done that day in Bethel, and the words that he spake unto the king. 12. And their father said unto them: Where is the way which he went? And his sons showed him the way which the man of God went, which was come from Judah. 13. And he said unto his sons, Saddle me the ass. And when they had saddled him with the ass, he rode upon it. 14. And he went after the man of God, and found him sitting under an oak: and he said unto him, Art thou the man of God that came from Judah? And he said, Yea. 15. And he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat bread. 16. And he said: I cannot return with thee, and come with thee: neither will I eat bread with thee, nor drink water with thee in this place. 17. For it was spoken unto me in the word of the LORD, saying, Thou shalt neither eat bread there, nor drink water; thou shalt not go again by the way which thou wentest. 18. And he said unto him, I also am a prophet like unto thee, and an angel spake unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him again home with thee, that he may eat bread, and drink water. But he lied to him. 19. And brought him again, and he did eat bread, and drank water in his house. 20. And as they sat at meat, the word of the LORD came unto the prophet, who had turned him again, 21. And he cried unto the man of God that was come from Judah, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Because thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the LORD, and hast not kept the commandment which the LORD thy God commanded thee, 22. And returned, and did eat bread, and drank water in the place whereof he said unto thee, Thou shalt neither eat bread, nor drink water, neither shall thy dead body come into the sepulchre of thy fathers. 23. And after he had eaten bread, and after he had drunk, they saddled the ass to the prophet, whom he had restored. 24. And as he departed, a lion found him in the way, and slew him: and his carcase lay cast in the way, and the ass stood by him, and the lion stood by the carcase. 25. And as men passed by, they saw the body cast in the way, and the lion standing by the body; and they came and told it in the city, where the old prophet dwelt within. 26. And when the prophet heard it, he that had brought him again, said, This is the man of God, which hath disobeyed the mouth of the LORD: therefore the LORD hath given him to the lion, and he hath broken him, and slain him, according to the word which the LORD spake unto him. 27. And he said unto his sons, Saddle me the ass. And when they had saddled him, 28. And he went, and found his body cast in the way, and the ass and the lion standing by the body: the lion had eaten nothing of the body, neither had he broken the ass. 29. And the prophet took up the body of the man of God, and laid it upon the ass, and led it again, and came into the city of the old prophet, and they mourned and buried him. 30. And he laid the body in his sepulchre; and they lamented him, saying, Alas, brother! 31. And when they had buried him, he said unto his sons: When I die, bury me in the sepulchre where the man of God is buried within, and lay my legs beside his legs. 32. For that which he hath cried against the altar of Bethel by the word of the LORD, and against all the houses of the high places which are in the cities of Samaria, shall come to pass. 33. But after this Jeroboam turned not from his evil way, but turned back, and made priests of the high places of the least of the people: whosoever he pleased he filled his hand, and he became priest of the high places. 34. And this became a sin unto the house of Jeroboam, that he was destroyed, and cut off from the earth. (1 Kings) Chapter 14 Prophecy against Jeroboam. Rehoboam's government, sin and its punishment. 1. At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam was sick. 2. And Jeroboam said unto his wife, Arise, and disguise thyself, that no man know that thou art Jeroboam's wife, and go to Shiloh. Behold, there is Ahijah the prophet, which spake unto me that I should reign over this people. 3. And take with thee ten loaves, and cakes, and a jar of honey; and come unto him, that he may tell thee how the lad shall fare. 4. And the wife of Jeroboam did so, and arose, and went to Shiloh, and came into the house of Ahijah. But Ahijah could not see; for his eyes were stiff with age. 5. And the LORD said unto Ahijah, Behold, the wife of Jeroboam cometh to ask of thee a thing concerning her son: for he is sick. Speak therefore unto her thus and thus. And when she was come in, she presented herself a stranger. 6. And when Ahijah heard the sound of her feet going in at the door, he said, Come in, thou wife of Jeroboam, why art thou a stranger? I am sent unto thee a stern messenger. 7. Go and tell Jeroboam, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have exalted thee from among the people, and have made thee ruler over my people Israel; 8. And I have rent the kingdom from David's house, and have given it thee. But thou hast not been as my servant David, which kept my commandments, and walked after me with all his heart, to do that which was right in mine eyes; 9. And thou hast done evil against all that were before thee, and hast gone and made thee other gods, and molten images, to provoke me to anger, and hast cast me behind thy back. 10. Therefore, behold, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up, and him that is forsaken in Israel; and I will sweep out the posterity of the house of Jeroboam, as one sweepeth out dung, until he be utterly destroyed. 11. Whosoever of Jeroboam dieth in the city, the dogs shall eat him: but whosoever dieth in the field, the fowls of the air shall eat him: for the LORD hath spoken it. 12. Arise thou therefore, and go home. And when thy foot entereth into the city, the child shall die. 13. And all Israel shall mourn for him, and shall bury him. For this man only of Jeroboam shall go into the grave, because some good thing was found in him before the LORD God of Israel in the house of Jeroboam. 14. And the LORD shall raise up a king over Israel for him, and he shall cut off the house of Jeroboam that day. And what is done now? 15. And the LORD shall smite Israel, as the reed is moved in the waters, and shall pluck Israel up out of this good land, which he gave unto their fathers, and shall scatter them upon the face of the waters, because they have made their groves to provoke the LORD to anger. 16. And he shall deliver up Israel for the sins of Jeroboam, who sinned, and made Israel to sin. 17. And the wife of Jeroboam arose, and went, and came to Tirzah. And when she was come to the threshold of the house, the lad died. 18. And they buried him, and all Israel mourned for him according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by his servant Ahijah the prophet. 19. And the rest of the acts of Jeroboam, how he fought and ruled, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 20. And the time that Jeroboam reigned was twenty and two years. And he slept with his fathers: and Nadab his son reigned in his stead. 21. So Rehoboam the son of Solomon was king in Judah. Rehoboam was forty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city which the LORD had chosen out of all the tribes of Israel to put his name there. His mother's name was Naema, an Ammonite woman. 22. And Judah did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and provoked him to zeal, more than all that their fathers had done in their sins which they did. 23. For they built them also high places, and pillars, and groves, upon every high hill, and under every green tree. 24. There were also fornicators in the land, and they did all the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD had cast out from before the children of Israel. 25. And it came to pass in the fifth year of king Rehoboam, that Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem. 26. And he took the treasures out of the house of the LORD, and out of the king's house, and all that was to be taken, and took all the shields of gold which Solomon had made; 27. In whose stead king Rehoboam made shields of brass, and put them under the hand of the chief captains that kept the door of the king's house. 28. And as often as the king went into the house of the LORD, they carried the satellites, and brought them again into the satellites' chamber. 29. And the rest of the acts of Rehoboam, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 30. And there was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam all their days. 31. And Rehoboam slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And his mother's name was Naema the Ammonite. And Abiam his son reigned in his stead. (1 Kings) Chapter 15 Reign of two kings in Judah, Abiam and Assa, and two in Israel, Nadab and Baasha. 1. In the eighteenth year of king Jeroboam the son of Nebat, Abiam reigned in Judah; 2. And he reigned three years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Maecha, a daughter of Abishalom. 3. And he walked in all the sins of his father, which he had done before him; and his heart was not righteous in the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father. 4. For because of David the LORD his God gave him a lamp at Jerusalem, to raise up his son after him, and to keep him at Jerusalem, 5. Because David did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and departed not from all that he commanded him all the days of his life, except in his dealings with Uriah the Hittite. 6. And there was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam all the days of his life. 7. And the rest of the acts of Abiam, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. Now there was war between Abiam and Jeroboam. 8. And Abiam slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David. And Assa his son reigned in his stead. 9. In the twentieth year of Jeroboam king over Israel was Asa king in Judah. 10. And he reigned forty and one years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Maechah, the daughter of Abisalom. 11. And Assa did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, as did David his father. 12. And he put away the fornicators out of the land, and put away all the idols which his fathers had made. 13. And he put away Maechah his mother from the service which she had made for Miplezeth in the grove. And Assa cut off her miplezeth, and burned him in the brook Kidron. 14. But the high places did not abolish them. But the heart of Assa was righteous in the LORD all his days. 15. And he brought in the silver, and the gold, and the vessels which his father had hallowed, and the things which were hallowed, unto the house of the LORD. 16. And there was war between Asa and Baasha king of Israel all their days. 17. And Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah, and built Ramah, that none should come out, nor go in on the side of Asa king of Judah. 18. And Assa took all the silver and gold that was left in the treasury of the house of the LORD, and in the treasury of the king's house, and delivered them into the hands of his servants, and sent them unto Benhadad the son of Tabrimon, the son of Heshion, king of Syria, which dwelt at Damascus, and told him: 19. There is a covenant between me and thee, and between my father and thy father: therefore will I send thee a present of silver and gold, that thou mayest put away the covenant that thou hast with Baasha king of Israel, that he may depart from me. 20. And Benhadad hearkened unto king Asa, and sent his captains against the cities of Israel, and smote Ijon, and Dan, and Abel Bethmaechah, all Cinneroth, in all the land of Naphtali. 21. And when Baasha heard it, he left off to build Ramah, and went again to Thirzah. 22. And king Asa made a noise throughout all Judah, saying, Here be none excepted. And they took away the stones and the timber from Ramah, wherewith Baasha had built: and king Asa built Geba Benjamin and Mizpeh therewith. 23. And the rest of the acts of Asa, and all his might, and all that he did, and the cities which he built, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah; without his sickness of his feet in his old age. 24. And Asa slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father. And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead. 25. And Nadab the son of Jeroboam reigned over Israel in the second year of Asa king of Judah, and reigned over Israel two years. 26. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the way of his father, and in his sin, to make Israel sin. 27. And Baasha the son of Ahijah, of the house of Issachar, made a league against him, and smote him at Gibethon, which was of the Philistines. For Nadab and all Israel besieged Gibethon. 28. So Baasha killed him in the third year of Asa king of Judah, and reigned in his stead. 29. And when he was king, he smote all the house of Jeroboam, and left not any that had the breath of Jeroboam, until he had destroyed him: according to the word of the LORD which he spake by his servant Ahijah of Shiloh, 30. Because of the sin of Jeroboam, which he did, and made Israel to sin, with the provoking, that he might provoke the LORD God of Israel to anger. 31. And the rest of the acts of Nadab, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 32. And there was war between Asa and Baasha king of Israel all their days. 33. And it came to pass in the third year of Asa king of Judah, that Baasha the son of Ahijah reigned over all Israel in Tirzah twenty and four years. 34. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the way of Jeroboam, and in his sin, to make Israel sin. Ch. 16. v. 1. Now the word of the LORD came to Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha, saying: 2. Because I have raised thee up out of the dust, and have made thee ruler over my people Israel, and thou walkest in the way of Jeroboam, and makest my people Israel to sin, to provoke me to anger by their sin, 3. Behold, I will take away the seed of Baasha, and the seed of his house, and will set thine house like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat. 4. Whosoever dieth of Baasha in the city, the dogs shall eat him: and whosoever dieth of him in the field, the fowls of the air shall eat him. 5. And the rest of the acts of Baasha, and what he did, and his might, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 6. And Baasha slept with his fathers, and was buried in Tirzah. And Ela his son reigned in his stead. 7. And the word of the LORD came by the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani upon Baasha, and upon his house, and against all the evil that he did in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger by the works of his hands, that it might be like the house of Jeroboam; and because he had slain him. (1 Kings) Chapter 16 Of four kings in Israel: Ela, Zimri, Amri, and Ahab. 8. In the twenty and sixth year of Asa king of Judah was Elah the son of Baasha king over Israel in Tirzah two years. 9. And Zimri his servant, the captain of half the chariots, made a league against him. And he was in Tirzah, and drank, and was drunken in the house of Arzah the governor of Tirzah. 10. And Zimri came in, and slew him in the twenty and seventh year of Asa king of Judah: and he reigned in his stead. 11. And when he was king, and sat upon his throne, he smote all the house of Baasha, and left not over him that pisseth against the wall, and his heirs, and his friends. 12. So Zimri destroyed all the house of Baasha, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake concerning Baasha by the prophet Jehu, 13. For all the sins of Baasha, and of Ela his son, which they did, to make Israel sin, to provoke the LORD God of Israel to anger by their idolatry. 14. And the rest of the acts of Elah, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 15. In the twenty and seventh year of Asa king of Judah did Zimri reign seven days in Tirzah. For the people lay before Gibethon the Philistine. 16. And when the people of the camp heard that Zimri had made a covenant, and had also slain the king, all Israel that day made Amri the captain of the host king over Israel in the camp. 17. And Amri went up, and all Israel with him, from Gibethon, and besieged Tirzah. 18. And when Zimri saw that the city was to be taken, he went into the palace of the king's house, and burned himself with the king's house, and died. 19. Because of his sins which he had done, in doing that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and walking in the way of Jeroboam, and in his sin which he had done, to make Israel sin. 20. And the rest of the acts of Zimri, and how he made a covenant, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 21. At that time the people of Israel were divided into two parts. Half of them clung to Thibni son of Ginath, and they made him king; and the other half clung to Amri. 22. But the people that clave to Amri were stronger than the people that clave to Thibni the son of Ginath. And Thibni died; and Amri became king. 23. In the thirty and first year of Asa king of Judah was Amri king over Israel twelve years, and reigned in Tirzah six years. 24. And he bought mount Samaria of Shemer for two talents of silver, and built upon the mount; and called the name of the city which he built Samaria, after the name of Shemer the Lord of the mountain. 25. And Amri did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and was worse than all that were before him. 26. And he walked in all the ways of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and in his sins, to make Israel sin, that they might provoke the LORD God of Israel to anger in their idolatry. 27. And the rest of the acts of Amri, and all that he did, and the power that he exercised, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 28. And Amri slept with his fathers, and was buried in Samaria. And Ahab his son reigned in his stead. 29. In the thirty and eighth year of Asa king of Judah was Ahab the son of Amri king over Israel, and reigned over Israel in Samaria twenty and two years. 30. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD against all that were before him. 31. And it was a small thing unto him to walk in the sin of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and to take Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of Zidon to wife: and he went and served Baal, and worshipped him. 32. And Baal set up an altar in the house of Baal, which he built for him in Samaria. 33. And he made a grove, so that Ahab did more to provoke the LORD God of Israel to anger than all the kings of Israel that were before him. 34. At that time Hiel of Bethel built Jericho. It cost him his first son Abiram, when he laid the foundation, and his youngest son Segub, when he set the doors, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by Joshua the son of Nun. (1 Kings) Chapter 17 Elijah in the Teurung fed by ravens, wakes a dead man to Zarpath. 1. And Elijah the Thisbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab: As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, I say. 2. And the word of the LORD came unto him, saying: 3. Depart thence, and turn thee toward the east, and hide thee by the brook Krith, which floweth over against Jordan. 4. And thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there. 5. And he went and did according to the word of the LORD, and departed, and sat down by the brook Krith, which floweth over against Jordan. 6. And the ravens brought him bread and meat morning and evening; and he drank of the brook. 7. And it came to pass after some days, that the brook dried up: for there was no rain in the land. 8. Then came the word of the LORD unto him, saying: 9. Arise, go to Zarpath, which is by Zidon, and dwell there: for I have commanded a widow there to provide for thee. 10. And he arose, and went to Zarpath. And when he was come to the door of the city, behold, there was a widow gleaning wood. And he called unto her, and said, Fetch me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. 11. And when she went to fetch it, he called unto her, and said, Bring me also a morsel of bread. 12. And she said, As the LORD thy God liveth, I have nothing baked without a handful of flour in the kad, and a little oil in the jar. And, behold, I have gathered up a wood or two, and am gone in, and will prepare for myself and for my son, that we may eat and die. 13. And Elijah said unto her, Fear not. Go and do as thou hast said; but first make me a little baked of it, and bring it forth unto me: and afterward thou shalt make it also for thee and for thy son. 14. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, The flour of the kad shall not be consumed, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth. 15. And she went and did as Elijah had said. And he did eat, and she also, and her house for a season. 16. The flour that was in the cad was not eaten, neither was the cruse of oil wanting, according to the word of the LORD which he spake by Elijah. 17. And after these things the son of the woman his landlady fell sick, and his sickness was so very sore, that there was no breath left in him. 18. And she said unto Elijah, What have I to do with thee, thou man of God? Thou camest in unto me, that my iniquity might be remembered, and that my son might be slain. 19. And he said unto her, Give me thy son. And he took him from her bosom, and went up into the hall where he dwelt, and laid him upon his bed. 20. And he called upon the LORD, and said, O LORD my God, hast thou also done evil to the widow, wherewith I am a sojourner, to kill her son? 21. And he measured himself over the child three times, and called upon the LORD, and said, O LORD my GOD, let the soul of this child come again to him. 22. And the LORD hearkened unto the voice of Elijah: and the soul of the child came again unto him, and revived. 23. And Elijah took the child, and brought him down into the hall of the house, and gave him to his mother, and said, Behold, thy son liveth. 24. And the woman said unto Elijah, Now I know that thou art a man of God, and the word of the LORD in thy mouth is truth. (1 Kings) Chapter 18 The prophet Elijah slaughters the Baal apes. 1. And for a long time the word of the LORD came unto Elijah in the third year, saying, Go and shew thyself to Ahab, that I may rain upon the earth. 2. And Elijah went to show himself to Ahab. And there was a great distress in Samaria. 3. And Ahab called for Obadiah, the master of his court. (And Obadiah feared the LORD very much. 4. For when Jezebel had cut off the prophets of the LORD, Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them in the cave, fifty here, and fifty there, and fed them with bread and water). 5. And Ahab said unto Obadiah, Go through the land unto all the fountains of waters and unto all the rivers, that we may find hay, and feed the horses and the mouths, lest all the cattle perish. 6. And they divided themselves into the land, to go through it. And Ahab went by himself one way, and Obadiah by himself the other way. 7. And when Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah met him: and when he knew him, he fell upon his face, and said, Art not thou my lord Elijah? 8. And he said, Yea; go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here. 9. And he said, What have I sinned, that thou wilt deliver thy servant into the hand of Ahab to slay me? 10. As the LORD thy God liveth, there is no nation nor kingdom whither my Lord hath not sent to seek thee. And when they said: He is not here, he took an oath of the kingdom and people, that they had not found thee. 11. And now thou sayest, Go, tell thy lord, Behold, Elijah is here. 12. If then I went from thee, the spirit of the LORD would take thee away, I know not whither: and if I came and told Ahab, and found thee not, he slew me. But thy servant feareth the LORD from his youth. 13. Is it not told my lord what I did, when Jezebel slew the prophets of the LORD, that I hid an hundred of the prophets of the LORD, fifty here, and fifty there, in the cave, and fed them with bread and with water? 14. And now thou sayest, Go, tell thy master, Elijah is here; that he may slay me. 15. And Elijah said, As the LORD of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, I will shew myself unto him this day. 16. And Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him. And Ahab went to meet Elijah. 17. And when Ahab saw Elijah, Ahab said unto him, Art thou he that confoundeth Israel? 18. And he said: I confound not Israel, but thou and thy father's house, because ye have forsaken the commandments of the LORD, and walk after Baalim. 19. Send therefore, and gather unto me all Israel unto mount Carmel, and the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal, and the four hundred prophets of the grove, which eat of the table of Jezebel. 20. So Ahab sent down all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel. 21. And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long do ye linger on both sides? If the LORD be God, walk after him: but if it be Baal, walk after him. And the people answered him nothing. 22. And Elijah said unto the people, I alone am left a prophet of the LORD: but the prophets of Baal are four hundred and fifty men. 23. Now therefore give us two bullocks, and let them choose one bullock, and cut it in pieces, and lay it upon the wood, and put no fire unto it: and I will take the other bullock, and lay it upon the wood, and put no fire unto it. 24. Then call ye on the name of your God, and I will call on the name of the LORD. Whichever God therefore shall answer with fire, let him be GOD. And all the people answered and said, This is right. 25. And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, Call ye a bullock, and make the first, for yours is much; and call upon your God's name, and put no fire to it. 26. And they took the bullock which he gave them, and dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from the morning even unto the south, saying: Baal, hear us. But there was neither voice nor answer. And they limped about the altar which they had made. 27. And when it was noon, Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; he worketh, or hath work, or is in the field, or peradventure sleepeth, that he may awake. 28. And they cried with a loud voice, and cut themselves with knives and awls after their manner, until their blood was gone. 29. And when noon was past, they prophesied until the meat offering should be offered: and there was no voice, nor answer, nor hearkening. 30. And Elijah said unto all the people, Come unto me, all ye people. And when all the people came unto him, he healed the altar of the LORD that was broken. 31. And he took twelve stones according to the number of the tribes of the children of Jacob, to whom the word of the LORD spake, saying, Thou shalt be called Israel. 32. And he built of the stones an altar in the name of the LORD, and made round about the altar a pit two measures broad. 33. And he dressed the wood, and cut up the bullock, and laid it upon the wood. 34. And he said, Bring four measures of water, and pour it upon the burnt offering, and upon the wood. And he said, Do it again. And they did it again. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time. 35. And the waters ran round about the altar, and the pit was filled with water. 36. And when the time was come to offer the meat offering, Elijah the prophet came near, and said, O LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and I am thy servant; and that I have done all these things according to thy word. 37. Hear me, O LORD; hear me, that this people may know that thou, O LORD, art God, that thou mayest turn their hearts afterward. 38. And the fire of the LORD came down, and devoured burnt offerings, and wood, and stones, and earth, and licked up the waters of the pit. 39. And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces, and said: The LORD is GOD, the LORD is GOD! 40. And Elijah said unto them: Seize the prophets of Baal, that none of them escape. And they took them. And Elijah brought them down unto the brook Kishon, and slew them there. 41. And Elijah said unto Ahab: Go up, eat, and drink; for it is rushing as if it would rain very much. 42. And when Ahab went up to eat and to drink, Elijah went up to the top of Carmel, and bowed himself to the ground, and put his head between his knees. 43. And said unto his lad: Go up and look toward the sea. And he went up, and looked, and said, There is nothing there. And he said, Go again seven times. 44. And the seventh time he said, Behold, a little cloud cometh up out of the sea, as the hand of a man. And he said, Go up, and tell Ahab: Tend, and go down, that the rain take thee not. 45. And before they looked, the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab departed, and went to Jezreel. 46. And the hand of the LORD came upon Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab, until he came to Jezreel. (1 Kings) Chapter 19 Elijah's escape, fasting, comfort, and successor. 1. And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had slain all the prophets of Baal with the sword. 2. And Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, The gods do this to me, and that to me, if I do not do to thy soul this time to morrow, as one of these souls. 3. And when he saw it, he arose, and went whithersoever he would, and came to Beer-sheba in Judah, and left his lad there. 4. And he went into the wilderness one day's journey, and came in, and sat down under a juniper, and prayed that his soul might die, saying, It is enough; now therefore, O LORD, take my soul. I am no better than my fathers. 5. And he lay down, and slept under the juniper. And, behold, the angel stirred him, and said unto him, Arise, and eat. 6. And he looked round about, and, behold, there was at his head a loaf of toasted bread, and a pitcher of water. And when he had eaten and drunk, he lay down again to sleep. 7. And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and stirred him, saying, Arise, and eat: for thou hast a great way to go. 8. And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went by the strength of the same meat forty days and forty nights unto mount Horeb. 9. And there he entered into a cave, and lodged there overnight. And, behold, the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, What doest thou here, Elijah? 10. And he said: I have been jealous for the LORD God of Zeboath: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, and broken down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I alone am left, and they seek to take away my life. 11. And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mountain before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks, before the LORD: but the LORD was not in the wind. And after the wind there was an earthquake: but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12. And after the earthquake there was a fire: but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a still, gentle whirring. 13. And when Elijah heard it, he covered his face with his mantle, and went out, and entered into the door of the cave. And, behold, a voice came unto him, saying, What hast thou to do here, Elijah? 14. And he said: I have been jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, they have broken down thine altars, they have slain thy prophets with the sword; and I alone am left, and they seek to take away my life. 15. And the LORD said unto him, Go thy way again through the wilderness unto Damascus, and go in, and anoint Hazael king over Syria. 16. And Jehu the son of Nimshi king over Israel, and Elisha the son of Shaphat, of Abel-meholah, a prophet in thy stead. 17. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall escape the sword of Hazael shall slay Jehu; and whosoever shall escape the sword of Jehu shall slay Elisha. 18. And I will leave seven thousand in Israel, every knee that hath not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that hath not kissed him. 19. And he went from thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat ploughing with twelve yokes before him: and he himself was of the twelve. And Elijah went unto him, and cast his mantle upon him. 20. And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, Let me kiss my father and my mother, and I will follow thee. And he said unto him, Go thy way, and come again: for I have business with thee. 21. And he ran again from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and offered them; and boiled the flesh with the wood of the oxen, and gave it to the people to eat. And he arose, and followed Elijah, and ministered unto him. (1 Kings) Chapter 20 Twofold war and victory of Ahab against Benhadad the Syrian. 1. And Benhadad king of Syria gathered together all his power, and there were thirty and two kings with him, and horses, and chariots: and he went up, and besieged Samaria, and fought against them. 2. And sent messengers unto Ahab king of Israel into the city. 3. And said unto him, Thus saith Benhadad, Thy silver and thy gold are mine, and thy wives and thy best children are mine. 4. And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord king, as thou hast spoken; I am thine, and all that I have. 5. And the messengers came again, and said, Thus saith Benhadad, Because I have sent unto thee, saying, Thy silver, and thy gold, thy wives, and thy children, shalt thou give me, 6. Then to morrow about this time I will send my servants unto thee, and they shall visit thy house, and the houses of thy subjects: and they shall take in their hands the things that are pleasant unto thee, and carry them away. 7. And the king of Israel called unto all the elders of the land, and said, Mark and see how wickedly he doeth it. He hath sent unto me for my wives, and for my children, and for my silver, and for my gold; and I have not withstood him. 8. And all the ancients and all the people said unto him, Thou shalt not hearken, nor grant. 9. And he said unto Benhadad the messengers, Tell my lord the king: All that thou didst command thy servant at the first will I do; but this I cannot do. And the messengers went and said these things again. 10. And Benhadad sent unto him, saying, The gods do this and that unto me, where the dust of Samaria shall be enough for all the people under me to bring a handful of it. 11. But the king of Israel answered and said, Say ye, He that putteth on the armour shall not boast, as he that putteth it off. 12. And when Benhadad heard it, and he was drinking with the kings in the tents, he said unto his servants: Send yourselves. And they sent themselves against the city. 13. And, behold, a prophet came to Ahab king of Israel, and said, Thus saith the LORD, Thou hast seen all this great multitude. Behold, I will deliver it into thine hand this day, that thou mayest know that I am the LORD. 14. And Ahab said, By whom? And he said, Thus saith the LORD, By the sons of the governors. And he said, Who shall stir up the battle? And he said, Thou. 15. And he numbered the sons of the governors, two hundred thirty and two. And he numbered after them all the people of all the children of Israel, seven thousand men. 16. And they departed in the middle of the day. And Benhadad drank, and was drunken in the tent, with the thirty and two kings that came to his help. 17. And the lads of the governors went out first. And Benhadad sent out, and they told him, saying: There go men out of Samaria. 18. And he said, Take them alive, whether they come out for peace, or for strife. 19. And when the lads of the governors were gone out, and the host after them, 20. And they smote every man that came before him. And the Syrians fled, and Israel pursued after them. And Benhadad king of Syria escaped with horses and horsemen. 21. And the king of Israel went out, and smote horse and chariot, and made a great slaughter of the Syrians. 22. And a prophet came to the king of Israel, and said unto him, Go and strengthen thyself; and mark and see what thou doest. For the king of Syria shall come up against thee when the year is expired. 23. For the servants of the king of Syria said unto him, Their gods are mountain gods: therefore have they taken us. O that we should fight with them in the plain! What is the matter, that we should have conquered them? 24. Do thou therefore unto him, Remove the kings every one from his place, and put lords in their stead. 25. And ordain thee an army like unto the army that thou hast lost, and horses and chariots like unto them: and let us fight against them in the plain. What shall we do to them? And he hearkened unto their voice, and did so. 26. And it came to pass, when the year was expired, that Benhadad gathered the Syrians, and went up to Aphek to fight against Israel. 27. And the children of Israel also arrayed themselves, and fed themselves, and went out to meet them, and encamped against them, as two little flocks of goats. And the land was full of the Syrians. 28. And a man of God came near, and said unto the king of Israel, Thus saith the LORD; Because the Syrians have said, The LORD is a God of the mountains, and not a God of the ground, I have delivered all this great multitude into thy hand, that ye may know that I am the LORD. 29. And they encamped against them seven days. And on the seventh day they went out to battle, and the children of Israel smote the Syrians an hundred thousand footmen in one day. 30. And the remnant fled to Aphek into the city: and the wall fell upon the rest of the twenty and seven thousand men. And Benhadad also fled into the city, from chamber to chamber. 31. And his servants said unto him, Behold, we have heard that the kings of the house of Israel are merciful kings: let us therefore put sackcloth upon our loins, and ropes upon our heads, and go out unto the king of Israel: peradventure he will save thy life. 32. And they girded sackcloth about their loins, and ropes about their heads, and came to the king of Israel, and said: Benhadad thy servant saith unto thee, Let my soul live. And he said, If he live, he is my brother. 33. And the men took the word from him in haste, and interpreted it for themselves, and said: Yea, thy brother Benhadad. And he said, Come and bring him. So Benhadad went out to him. And let him sit upon the chariot 34. And he said unto him, The cities which my father took from thy father will I restore unto thee; and make thee streets of Damascus, as my father did of Samaria, and I will leave thee with a covenant. And he made a covenant with him, and sent him away. 35. Then said a man of the sons of the prophets unto his neighbour by the word of the LORD, Slay me, I pray thee. But he refused to smite him. 36. And he said unto him, Because thou hast not hearkened unto the voice of the LORD, behold, a lion shall smite thee, if thou depart from me. And as he departed from him, a lion found him, and smote him. 37. And he found another man, and said, Smite me, I pray thee. And the man smote him sore. 38. And the prophet went and stood by the way of the king, and hid his face with ashes. 39. And as the king passed by, he cried unto the king, saying, Thy servant was gone out in the midst of the battle. And, behold, a man was departed, and brought a man unto me, and said, Keep this man: if any man miss him, then thy soul shall be for his soul, or thou shalt weigh a talent of silver. 40. And when thy servant had business here and there, he was no more. And the king of Israel said unto him, This is thy judgment; thou hast pleaded it thyself. 41. And he hasted, and put away the ashes from his face: and the king of Israel knew him, that he was one of the prophets. 42. And he said unto him, Thus saith the LORD; Because thou hast sent away the exiled man from thee, thy soul shall be for his soul, and thy people for his people. 43. And the king of Israel went away displeased and angry into his house, and came to Samaria. (1 Kings) Chapter 21 Practiced tyranny of Ahab and Jezebel against Naboth. 1. Now it came to pass, after these things, that Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel, by the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. 2. And Ahab spake unto Naboth, saying, Give me thy vineyard, and I will make me a cabbage garden out of it, because it is so near unto my house. And I will give thee a better vineyard for it; or, if it please thee, I will give thee silver for it, as much as it is worth. 3. And Naboth said unto Ahab: Let the LORD be far from me, that I should give thee the inheritance of my fathers. 4. And Ahab came home displeased, and wroth, because of the word that Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken unto him, saying: I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers. And he lay upon his bed, and turned his face, and did eat no bread. 5. And Jezebel his wife came in unto him, and said unto him, What is the matter, that thy spirit is displeased, and that thou eatest not bread? 6. And he said unto her: I spake unto Naboth the Jezreelite, saying, Give me thy vineyard for money; or, if thou be desirous, I will give thee another for it. But he said: I will not give thee my vineyard. 7. And Jezebel his wife said unto him, What kingdom would there be in Israel, if thou didst so? Arise, eat bread, and be of good courage. I will give thee the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite. 8. And she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his petschier, and sent them unto the elders and rulers of his city, that dwelt about Naboth. 9. And wrote thus in the epistles, Let a fast be proclaimed, and set Naboth on high among the people. 10. And set before him two loose knaves, which testify, saying, Thou hast blessed God and the king. And bring him forth, and stone him, that he die. 11. And the elders and rulers of his city, which dwelt in his city, did as Jezebel commanded them, as she wrote in the letters which she sent unto them. 12. And they cried out a fast, and set Naboth on high among the people. 13. And the two scoundrels came and stood before him, and testified against Naboth before the people, and said: Naboth blessed GOD and the king. And they brought him out of the city, and stoned him to death. 14. And they sent to Jezebel, saying, Naboth is stoned, and is dead. 15. And when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned and dead, she said unto Anab, Arise, and take the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money. For Naboth liveth no more, but is dead. 16. And when Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, he arose, and went down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, and took it. 17. But the word of the LORD came unto Elijah the Thisbite, saying: 18. Arise, go down to meet Ahab king of Israel, which is in Samaria. (Behold, he is in the vineyard of Naboth, whither he is gone down to possess it.) 19. And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Thou hast slain, and thou hast taken. And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, In the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick thy blood. 20. And Ahab said unto Elijah, Hast thou ever found me thine enemy? And he said, Yea, I have found thee, because thou art sold to do evil in the sight of the LORD. 21. Behold, I will bring evil upon thee, and will take away thy seed; and I will cut off from Ahab him also that pisseth against the wall, and that is shut up and left in Israel. 22. And I will make thine house like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and like the house of Baasha the son of Ahijah, for provocation, that thou hast provoked to anger, and made Israel to sin. 23. And the LORD spake also concerning Jezebel, saying, The dogs shall eat Jezebel upon the wall of Jezreel. 24. He that dieth of Ahab in the city shall the dogs eat: and he that dieth in the field shall the fowls of the air eat. 25. So there was none so sold to do evil in the sight of the LORD as Ahab: for Jezebel his wife persuaded him so. 26. And he made himself a great abomination to walk after idols, according to all that the Amorites did, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel. 27. And when Ahab heard these words, he rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon his body, and fasted, and slept in sackcloth, and walked miserably. 28. And the word of the LORD came unto Elijah the Thisbite, saying: 29. Hast thou not seen Ahab bowing down before me? Because he bowed down before me, I will not bring evil upon his life: but upon his son's life will I bring evil upon his house. (1 Kings) Chapter 22 Ahab's downfall. Jehoshaphat's and Ahaziah's government. 1. And three years passed, and there was no war between the Syrians and Israel. 2. And in the third year Jehoshaphat king of Judah went down to the king of Israel. 3. And the king of Israel said unto his servants: Know ye not that Ramoth is ours in Gilead; and we sit still, and take them not at the hand of the king of Syria? 4. And he said unto Jehoshaphat, Wilt thou go with me to battle to Ramoth in Gilead? And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, I will be as thou art, and my people as thy people, and my horses as thy horses. 5. And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Ask ye this day the word of the LORD. 6. Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets of four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall I go to Ramoth in Gilead to battle, or shall I leave it? And they said: Go up, and the LORD deliver it into the hand of the king. 7. And Jehoshaphat said: Is there no more prophet of the LORD here, that we should inquire of him? 8. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet a man, Micah the son of Jemla, of whom the LORD may be inquired of. But I am grieved for him: for he knoweth me no good, but evil. And Jehoshaphat said, The king speaketh not so. 9. And the king of Israel called unto a chamberlain, and said, Bring quickly Micaiah the son of Jemla. 10. And the king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat king of Judah, sat every man in his seat, clothed with garments, in the place before the door of the gate of Samaria: and all the prophets prophesied before them. 11. And Zedekiah the son of Cnaenah had made him horns of iron, and said, Thus saith the LORD, Herewith shalt thou thrust the Syrians, until thou have cleared them up. 12. And all the prophets prophesied thus, saying: Go up to Ramoth in Gilead, and be blessed: for the LORD shall deliver it into the hand of the king. 13. And the messenger that went to call Micaiah said unto him, Behold, the words of the prophets are all good for the king: now therefore let thy word also be as the word of them, and speak good. 14. And Micah said, As the LORD liveth, I will speak what the LORD shall say unto me. 15. And when he was come to the king, the king said unto him, Shall we go up to Ramoth in Gilead to fight, or shall we leave it? And he said unto him, Yea, go up, and prosper: for the LORD will deliver it into the hand of the king. 16. And the king said unto him again, I charge thee that thou tell me no other thing but the truth in the name of the LORD. 17. And he said: I saw all Israel scattered upon the mountains like sheep having no shepherd. And the LORD said, Have these no master? Return every one of them in peace. 18. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, Did I not tell thee that he knew me no good thing, but only evil? 19. And he said, Hear now therefore the word of the LORD. I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing by him on his right hand and on his left. 20. And the LORD said, Who shall persuade Ahab to go up, and fall at Ramoth in Gilead? And one said this, and another said that. 21. And a spirit came out, and stood before the LORD, and said: I will persuade him. And the LORD said unto him, With what? 22. And he said: I will go out, and be a false spirit in all his prophets' mouths. And he said, Thou shalt persuade him, and shalt deliver it: go out, and do so. 23. Now, behold, the LORD hath put a false spirit in the mouth of all these thy prophets; and the LORD hath spoken evil of thee. 24. And Zedekiah the son of Cnaenah came near, and smote Micaiah on the beacons, and said, How? Is the Spirit of the LORD departed from me, that he should speak unto thee? 25. And Micah said, Behold, thou shalt see in that day, when thou shalt pass from chamber to chamber, that thou shalt hide thyself. 26. And the king of Israel said, Take Micaiah, and let him dwell with Amon the mayor, and with Joash the king's son, 27. And say, Thus saith the king, Put this man in prison, and feed him with bread and with water of affliction, until I come again in peace. 28. And Micah said, If thou return in peace, the LORD hath not spoken by me. And said, Hearken, all ye people. 29. So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah went up to Ramoth in Gilead. 30. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, Disguise thyself, and come into the battle with thy garments on. And the king of Israel disguised himself also, and went into the battle. 31. And the king of Syria commanded the captains of his chariots, which were thirty and two, saying: Ye shall not fight against small nor great, but against the king of Israel only. 32. And when the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, they thought that he was the king of Israel, and fell upon him with strife: but Jehoshaphat cried out. 33. And when the captains of the chariots saw that he was not the king of Israel, they turned back from him behind. 34. And a man drew his bow about, and shot the king of Israel between the armour and the hengel. And he said unto his charioteer, Turn thine hand, and bring me out of the host; for I am sore. 35. And the battle increased that day, and the king stood in the chariot against the Syrians, and died in the evening. And the blood flowed from the wounds into the midst of the chariot. 36. And they proclaimed in the army, when the sun was down, saying, Go every man to his city, and to his country. 37. So the king died, and was brought to Samaria. And they buried him in Samaria. 38. And when they washed the chariot by the pool of Samaria, the dogs licked up the blood thereof (and the harlots washed it), according to the word of the LORD which he spake. 39. And the rest of the acts of Ahab, and all that he did, and the ivory house that he built, and all the cities that he built, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 40. So Ahab passed away with his fathers, and Ahaziah his son reigned in his stead. 41. And Jehoshaphat the son of Asa reigned over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel. 42. And he was thirty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and five years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Asuba, a daughter of Zilhi. 43. And he walked in all the way of his father Asa, and departed not from it: and he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD. 44. But he removed not the high places; and the people sacrificed and burned incense in the high places. 45. And had peace with the king of Israel. 46. And the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, and his might, and what he did, and how he fought, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 47. And he took out of the land the rest of the whoredoms that remained in the days of Asa his father. 48. And there was no king in Edom. 49. And Jehoshaphat had made ships for the sea, to go into Ophir to fetch gold. But they went not: for they were broken in Ezeon-giver. 50. And Ahaziah the son of Ahab said unto Jehoshaphat, Let my servants go with thy servants in ships. But Jehoshaphat would not. 51. And Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Jehoram his son reigned in his stead. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Second Book of Kings (2 Kings) ^ Chapter 1 1. Also the Moabites fell away from Israel, because Ahab was dead. 2. And Ahaziah fell through the lattice of his hall in Samaria, and was sick: and he sent messengers, and said unto them: Go and inquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease. 3. And the angel of the LORD spake unto Elijah the Thisbite: Arise, and meet the messengers of the king of Samaria, and say unto them: Is there not now a God in Israel, that ye go to ask Baalzebub the god of Ekron? 4. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Thou shalt not come down from the bed whereon thou hast lain, but shalt surely die. And Elijah departed. 5. And when the messengers were come again unto him, he said unto them: Why come ye again? 6. And they said unto him, A man came up to meet us, and said unto us, Go again unto the king that sent you, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Is there no God in Israel, that thou goest to inquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron? Therefore shalt thou not come down from off the bed whereon thou hast lain, but shalt surely die. 7. And he said unto them: What manner of man was he that met you, and said these things unto you? 8. And they said unto him, He had a smoky skin on, and a leathern girdle about his loins. And he said, It is Elijah the Thisbite. 9. And he sent unto him a captain over fifty, and the same fifty. And when he was come up to him, behold, he sat on the top of the mountain. And he said unto him, Thou man of God, the king saith, Thou shalt come down. 10. And Elijah answered the captain of fifty, and said unto him, If I be a man of God, let fire fall from heaven, and devour thee and thy fifty. So fire came down from heaven, and devoured him and his fifty. 11. And he sent again another captain over fifty unto him with his fifty. And he answered and said unto him, Thou man of God, thus saith the king, Come down quickly. 12. And Elijah answered and said, If I be a man of God, let fire fall from heaven, and devour thee and thy fifty. So the fire of GOD fell from heaven, and devoured him and his fifty. 13. And he sent again the third captain over fifty, and his fifty. And when he came up unto him, he bowed his knees to Elijah, and besought him, and said unto him, Thou man of God, let my soul, and the soul of thy servants, these fifty, be accepted before thee. 14. Behold, the fire is fallen from heaven, and hath devoured the first two captains of fifty with their fifties: but now let my soul be accepted before thee. 15. And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him, and fear him not. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king. 16. And he said unto him, Thus saith the LORD; Because thou hast sent messengers to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron, as if there were no god in Israel to enquire of: thou shalt not come down from the bed whereon thou layest, but shalt surely die. 17. So he died according to the word of the LORD, which Elijah spake. And Jehoram reigned in his stead the second year of Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat king of Judah: for he had no son. 18. And the rest of the acts of Ahaziah, which he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. (2 Kings) Chapter 2 Elijah's ascension. Elisha's miracles. 1. And when the LORD was about to take Elijah up to heaven in the weather, Elijah and Elisha went from Gilgal. 2. And Elijah said unto Elisha, Stay here, for the LORD hath sent me to Bethel. And Elisha said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they came down to Bethel, 3. And the sons of the prophets that were at Bethel came out unto Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy Lord from thy heads this day? And he said: I know it also: hold your peace. 4. And Elijah said unto him, Elisha, good fellow, tarry here: for the LORD hath sent me to Jericho. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they came to Jericho, 5. And the sons of the prophets that were at Jericho came unto Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head this day? And he said: I know it also: hold your peace. 6. And Elijah said unto him, Stay here, for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee: and they went both of them together. 7. And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went and stood over against him afar off: and they stood by Jordan. 8. And Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the water; and it parted on both sides, and they passed through dry. 9. And when they were come over, Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken from thee. And Elisha said, That thy spirit may be with me double. 10. And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: but if thou shalt see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so; but if not, it shall not be so. 11. And as they walked together, and he spake, behold, there came a chariot of fire with horses of fire, and separated them one from another: and Elijah ascended up to heaven in the weather. 12. And Elisha saw it, and cried, My father, my father, chariots of Israel, and his horsemen. And saw him no more. And he took hold of his garments, and rent them in twain. 13. And he took up the coat of Elijah, which had fallen from him, and returned, and stood on the bank of Jordan. 14. And he took the same coat of Elijah, which had fallen from him, and smote the water, and said, Where then is the LORD God of Elijah? And he smote the water, and it parted on both sides: and Elisha passed through. 15. And when the children of the prophets that were at Jericho saw him against him, they said: The spirit of Elijah resteth upon Elisha: and they went out to meet him, and worshipped the earth. 16. And they said unto him, Behold, there are among thy servants fifty men, strong men, let them go and seek thy master: peradventure the spirit of the LORD hath taken him, and cast him into some mountain, or into some valley. But he said, "Do not let them go. 17. But they constrained him, until he stood unruly, and said, Let go. And they sent fifty men, and sought him three days; but they found him not. 18. And they came again unto him. And he tarried at Jericho, and said unto them, Did I not tell you not to go? 19. And the men of the city said unto Elisha, Behold, it is good to dwell in this city, as my lord hath seen; but it is evil water, and the land is barren. 20. And he said, Bring me a new bowl, and put salt therein. And they brought it unto him. 21. And he went out unto the fountain of waters, and cast the salt therein, and said, Thus saith the LORD, I have made this water wholesome; there shall no more death nor barrenness come thence. 22. So the waters were healed unto this day, according to the word of Elisha which he spake. 23. And he went up to Bethel. And as he walked along the way, little boys came out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Baldy, come up hither. Baldy, come up hither! 24. And he turned, and saw them, and cursed them in the name of the LORD. And there came two bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two of the children. 25. And from thence he went up into mount Carmel, and returned thence to Samaria. (2 Kings) Chapter 3 Joram's government, war and victory against the Moabites. 1. Jehoram the son of Ahab reigned over Israel in Samaria in the eighteenth year of Jehoshaphat king of Judah, and reigned twelve years. 2. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, but not as his father and mother did. For he took away the pillar of Baal, which his father had made. 3. But he continued in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin, and departed not from them. 4. And Mesha king of Moab had many flocks, and shewed the king of Israel the wool of an hundred thousand lambs, and of an hundred thousand rams. 5. And when Ahab was dead, the king of Moab fell away from the king of Israel. 6. And Jehoram king of Samaria went out at that time, and put all Israel in order. 7. And he sent to Jehoshaphat king of Judah, saying, The king of Moab is departed from me: come with me to fight against Moab. And he said: I will come up; I am as thou art, and my people as thy people, and my horses as thy horses. 8. And he said, By what way shall we go up? And he said, By the way of the wilderness of Edom. 9. So the king of Israel went, and the king of Judah, and the king of Edom. And when they went seven days' journey, the host and the cattle that were among them had no water. 10. And the king of Israel said, O woe! The LORD hath charged these three kings, to deliver them into the hand of Moab. 11. And Jehoshaphat said: Is there no prophet of the LORD here, that we should seek counsel of the LORD by him? And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered and said, Here is Elisha the son of Shaphat, which poured water on the hands of Elijah. 12. And Jehoshaphat said, The word of the LORD is with him. So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom went down to him. 13. And Elisha said unto the king of Israel, What hast thou to do with me? Go to thy father's prophets, and to thy mother's prophets. And the king of Israel said unto him, Nay: for the LORD hath called these three kings to deliver them into the hand of Moab. 14. And Elisha said, As the LORD of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, if I looked not upon Jehoshaphat king of Judah, I would not look upon thee, nor regard thee. 15. Bring me therefore a minstrel. And as the minstrel played upon the string, the hand of the Lord came upon him. 16. And he said, Thus saith the LORD, Make ditches here and there by this brook. 17. For thus saith the LORD; Ye shall see no wind, neither shall ye see any rain: nevertheless the brook shall be full of water, that ye and your household and your cattle may drink. 18. This is a small thing in the sight of the LORD: he will also deliver the Moabites into your hand, 19. And ye shall smite every strong city, and every chosen city; and ye shall cut down every good tree, and shall stop up every well of water, and shall destroy every good field with stones. 20. And it came to pass in the morning, when they offered meat offerings, that, behold, there came a river of water by the way of Edom, and filled the land with water. 21. And when all Moab heard that the kings were come up to fight against them, they called all that were old enough and above in armour, and stood in the border. 22. And when they arose early in the morning, and the sun was risen upon the waters, the Moabites saw the waters red against them as blood; 23. And they said: It is blood; the kings have corrupted themselves with the sword, and one shall have smitten another. Hoi, Moab, make thee now a prey! 24. And when they were come to the camp of Israel, Israel arose, and smote Moab; and they fled before them. But they came in, and smote Moab. 25. And they brake down the cities, and cast every man his stones upon all the good fields, and filled them; and stopped up all the wells of water, and cut down all the good trees, until only the stones remained upon the brick walls: and they compassed them about with slingers, and smote them. 26. And when the king of Moab saw that the battle was too strong for him, he took unto him seven hundred men, which drew swords to pluck out against the king of Edom: but they could not. 27. And he took his firstborn son, which was to be king in his stead, and offered him for a burnt offering upon the wall. And Israel was very wroth, and departed from him, and returned unto the land. (2 Kings) Chapter 4 Elisa's Five Marvels. 1. And a certain woman of the wives of the children of the prophets cried unto Elisha, saying, Thy servant my husband is dead: and thou knowest that he thy servant feared the LORD: now cometh the trespasser, and will take my two children for his own servants. 2. And Elisha said unto her, What shall I do unto thee? Tell me, what hast thou in the house? And she said, Thy handmaid hath nothing in the house, save a pitcher of oil. 3. And he said, Go and ask of all thy neighbours without, empty vessels, and not a few of them. 4. And go in, and shut the door behind thee with thy sons, and pour into all the vessels; and when thou hast filled them, give them up. 5. And she went and shut the door behind her, and her sons with her; and they brought her the vessels, and she poured. 6. And when the vessels were full, she said unto her son, Bring me another vessel. And he said unto her, There is no more vessel here. And there was the oil. 7. And she went and told the man of God. And he said, Go, sell the oil, and pay thy debtor; but thou and thy sons feed thyself of the rest. 8. And it came to pass in those days, that Elisha went to Sunem. And there was a rich woman there, which kept him to eat with her. And it came to pass, as he passed through there often, that he went in unto her, and did eat with her. 9. And she said unto her husband, Behold, I know that this man of God is holy, which passeth through here for ever. 10. Let us make him a little chamber of boards above, and put therein a bed, and a table, and a chair, and a candlestick; that, when he cometh to us, he may do therein. 11. And it came to pass in those days, that he went in, and lay down in the upper chamber, and slept within. 12. And he said unto Gehazi his lad, Call unto the Sunamitess. And when he called unto her, she stood before him. 13. And he said unto him, Say unto her, Behold, thou hast done all this service unto us; what shall I do unto thee? Hast thou any thing to the king, or to the captain of the field? She said: I dwell among my people. 14. And he said, What is there for her to do? And Gehazi said, Alas, she hath no son, and her husband is old. 15. And he said, Call unto her. And when he called unto her, she entered in at the door. 16. And he said, At this time about a year shalt thou have a son. And she said, Oh not, my lord, thou man of God, lie not unto thine handmaid. 17. And the woman conceived, and bare a son the same time about a year, as Elisha spake unto her. 18. And when the child was grown, it came to pass, that he went out unto his father unto the reapers. 19. And said unto his father: O my head, my head! He said to his boy: Take him to his mother. 20. And he took him, and brought him in unto his mother; and she set him upon her lap until noon; and he died. 21. And she went up, and laid him upon the bed of the man of God, and shut it, and went out. 22. And she called her husband, and said, Send me one of the lads, and an ass; and I will go to the man of God, and return. 23. And he said, Why wilt thou go unto him? For this day is not the new moon, nor the sabbath. And she said, It is well. 24. And she saddled the ass, and said unto the lad: Drive on, and do not delay me in riding, as I say unto thee; 25. So she went and came unto the man of God unto mount Carmel. And when the man of God saw her against him, he said unto Gehazi his lad, Behold, the Sunammite is here. 26. Run therefore to meet her, and ask her whether it be well with her, and with her husband, and with her son? And she said, Well. 27. And when she was come up to the man of God into the mountain, she held him by his feet: and Gehazi came near to cast her off. And the man of God said, Let her alone; for her soul is troubled: and the LORD hath hid it from me, and hath not told me. 28. And she said, When did I ask a son of my lord? Did I not tell thee not to deceive me? 29. And he said unto Gehazi, Gird up thy lands, and take my staff in thine hand, and go (if any man meet thee, greet him not; and if any man greet thee, thank him not), and lay my staff upon the face of the lad. 30. And the mother of the lad said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee: and he arose, and went after her. 31. And Gehazi went before them, and laid the rod upon the face of the lad: but there was neither voice nor feeling. And he went again to meet him, and signified unto him, saying, The lad is not awake. 32. And when Elisha was come into the house, behold, the lad was dead in his bed. 33. And he went in, and shut the door upon them both, and prayed unto the LORD. 34. And he went up, and lay upon the child, and put his mouth upon the mouth of the child, and his eyes upon his eyes, and his hands upon his hands: and he spread himself upon him, and the womb of the child was warm. 35. And he arose again, and went once hither and thither in the house; and went up, and spread himself over him. And the lad snorted seven times: and after that the lad opened his eyes. 36. And he called Gehazi, and said, Call unto the Sunamitess. And when he called unto her, she came in unto him. And he said, Take thy son thither. 37. And she came and fell at his feet, and worshipped the ground, and took her son, and went out. 38. And when Elisha was returned to Gilgal, there was a famine in the land, and the sons of the prophets dwelt before him. And he said unto his lad: Set a great pot, and boil a vegetable for the children of the prophets. 39. And one went into the field to gather herbs, and found wild tendrils, and gathered of them coloquines, his garment full: and when he was come, he cut them in the pot for vegetables, because they knew them not. 40. And when they poured it out for the men to eat, and they did eat of the vegetables, they cried out, saying, O man of God, death in the pot! For they could not eat it. 41. And he said, Bring flour. And he put it into the pot, and said, Put it before the people, that they may eat. And there was no evil in the pot. 42. And there came a man of Baal-salisha, and brought the man of God's firstfruits, even twenty loaves, and new corn in his garment. And he said, Give it to the people, that they may eat. 43. And his servant said, What shall I give an hundred men to him? And he said, Give unto the people. Give to the people, that they may eat. For thus saith the LORD; They shall eat, and be left over. 44. And he set it before them, that they should eat: and he tarried yet after the word of the LORD. (2 Kings) Chapter 5 Naaman is cleansed from leprosy, Gehazi is punished with it. 1. Naaman the captain of the host of the king of Syria was an excellent man in the sight of his lord, and highly esteemed: for by him the LORD gave salvation in Syria. And he was a mighty man, and a leper. 2. And the men of war that were in Syria fell out, and carried away a little damsel out of the land of Israel, which was in the service of Naaman's wife. 3. And she said unto her wife, If my lord were with the prophet of Samaria, he would rid him of his leprosy. 4. And he went in unto his lord, and told him, and said, Thus and thus spake the damsel of the land of Israel. 5. And the king of Syria said, Go, I will write a letter unto the king of Israel. And he went, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand shekels, and ten sets of garments. 6. And he brought the letter unto the king of Israel, saying, When this letter cometh unto thee, behold, I have sent unto thee Naaman my servant, that thou shouldest rid him of his leprosy. 7. And when the king of Israel read the letter, he rent his clothes, and said, Am I God, that I can kill, and that I can make alive, to send unto me to rid the man of his leprosy? Mark and behold, how he seeketh a cause of me! 8. And when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel had rent his clothes, he sent unto him, saying, Wherefore hast thou rent thy clothes? Let him come to me, that he may know that there is a prophet in Israel. 9. So Naaman came with horses and chariots, and stopped at the door of Elisha's house. 10. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall be restored unto thee, and thou shalt be clean. 11. And Naaman was wroth, and departed, and said: I meant that he should come out unto me, and stand, and call upon the name of the LORD his God, and run his hand over the place, and so put away the leprosy. 12. Are not the waters of Amanah and Pharphar in Damascus better than all the waters of Israel, that I may wash in them, and be clean? And he turned and departed in anger. 13. And his servants came unto him, and spake unto him, saying: Dear father, if the prophet had commanded thee a great thing, shouldest thou not do it? How much more, if he say unto thee, Wash, and thou shalt be clean? 14. And he went down, and was baptized in Jordan seven times, as the man of God had spoken: and his flesh was restored, as the flesh of a young lad, and he was clean. 15. And he returned unto the man of God, and to all his host. And when he was come in, he stood before him, and said, Behold, I know that there is no God in all the earth, save in Israel: now therefore receive the blessing of thy servant. 16. And he said, If the LORD be alive, before whom I stand, I will not take it. And he urged him to take it; but he would not. 17. And Naaman said, Shall not thy servant have a burden given unto this earth, as much as two mouths shall bear? For thy servant will no more sacrifice unto other gods, nor offer burnt offerings, but unto the LORD; 18. That the LORD may be gracious unto thy servant in this, where I worship in the house of Rimon, when my lord goeth into the house of Rimon to worship there, and he leaneth upon my hand. 19. And he said unto him. Go in peace. And when he was departed from him one country way in the country, 20. And Gehazi the son of Elisha, the man of God, said, Behold, my lord hath spared Naaman the Syrian, that he hath taken nothing of him that he hath brought. As the LORD liveth, I will go after him, and take something of him. 21. So Gehazi pursued after Naaman. And when Naaman saw that he pursued him, he came down from the chariot to meet him, and said, Is it lawful? 22. And he said, Yea. And my lord hath sent me to say unto thee, Behold, there are now come unto me from mount Ephraim two lads of the sons of the prophets; give them a talent of silver, and two sets of garments. 23. And Naaman said, Take the two talents: and he constrained him, and bound the two talents of silver in two bags, and in two garments, and gave them to his two sons, which bare them before him. 24. And when he was come to Ophel, he took it from their hands, and laid it up in the house, and sent the men away. 25. And when they were departed, he stood before his lord. And Elisha said unto him, Whence, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went neither hither nor thence. 26. And he said unto him, Was not my heart moved, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Was this the time to take silver, and raiment, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants? 27. But the leprosy of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and to thy seed for ever. And he went out from him leprous as snow. (2 Kings) Chapter 6 From floating iron. Blindness of the Syrians. Famine in Samaria. 1. And the children of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold, the place where we dwell before thee is too strait for us. 2. Let us go to Jordan, and fetch every man wood there, that we may build us a place there to dwell in. And he said, Go ye. 3. And one said, Dear, go with thy servants. And he said: I will go with thee. 4. And he went with them. And when they were come to Jordan, they cut down wood. 5. And when one cut down a tree, the iron fell into the water: Water. And he cried out, saying, Awe, my lord! This is what it is borrowed for. 6. And the man of God said, Where is it fallen? And when he shewed him the place, he cut down a piece of wood, and thrust it there. And the iron floated. 7. And he said, Take it up. And he put forth his hand, and took it. 8. And the king of Syria made war against Israel, and consulted with his servants, saying, We will pitch here and there. 9. And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, Beware that thou go not into that place: for the Syrians rest there. 10. So the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him, and kept it, and kept it there: and he did it not once nor twice by himself. 11. And the king of Syria's heart was displeased, and called his servants, and said unto them: Will ye not tell me who is fled from among us to the king of Israel? 12. And one of his servants said, Not so, my lord the king: but Elisha the prophet of Israel saith all these things unto the king of Israel, which thou speakest in the chamber where thy camp is. 13. And he said, Go ye therefore, and see where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And they shewed him, saying, Behold, he is at Dothan. 14. And he sent horses and chariots, and a great power. And when they were come by night, they compassed the city about. 15. And the servant of the man of God rose up early, and arose, and went forth: and, behold, there was a power round about the city with horses and chariots. And his lad said unto him, Awe, my lord! How shall we do now? 16. And he said, Fear not: for they that are with us are more than they that are with them. 17. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the lad's eyes, and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. 18. And when they were come down unto him, Elisha besought, saying, Lord, smite this people with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha. 19. And Elisha said unto them: This is not the way, nor the city. Follow me, and I will lead you unto the man whom ye seek. And he led them to Samaria. 20. And when they were come to Samaria, Elisha said, Lord, open the eyes of these, that they may see. And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw: and, behold, they were in the midst of Samaria. 21. And the king of Israel, when he saw them, said unto Elisha, My father, shall I smite them? 22. And he said, Thou shalt not smite them. Whom thou shalt smite with thy sword and thy bow, smite them. Set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink; and let them go to their lord. 23. And there was a great supper prepared. And when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away to go unto their lord. Since that time the men of war of the Syrians came no more into the land of Israel. 24. And it came to pass after these things, that Benhadad king of Syria gathered all his host together, and went up, and besieged Samaria. 25. And there was a great famine in Samaria. And they besieged the city, until the head of an ass was eighty shekels of silver, and the dung of a quart of doves five shekels of silver. 26. And when the king of Israel was come to the wall, a woman cried unto him, saying, Help me, my lord the king. 27. And he said, If the LORD help thee not, whence shall I help thee? From the threshingfloor, or from the winepress? 28. And the. And the king said unto her, What is the matter with thee? And she said, This woman said unto me, Give thy son, that we may eat to day; to morrow we will eat my son. 29. So we boiled my son, and did eat him. And I said unto her the next day, Give thy son, and let us eat. But she hid her son. 30. When the king heard the words of the woman, he rent his clothes, and went to the wall. Then all the people saw that he had sackcloth on the bottom of his body. 31. And he said, God do this unto me, and that, where the head of Elisha the son of Shaphat shall stand upon him this day. 32. And Elisha sat in his house, and the elders sat with him: and he sent a man before him. And before the messenger came to him, he said unto the elders, Have ye seen how this murderous child hath sent hither to cut off my head? When the messenger comes, shut the door and push him away with the door: behold, the sound of his master's feet follows him. 33. And while he yet talked with them, behold, the messenger came down unto him, and said, Behold, this evil cometh of the LORD: what more shall I expect of the LORD? (2 Kings) Chapter 7 Quick good time to Samaria. 1. And Elisha said, Hear the word of the LORD. Thus saith the LORD; To morrow about this time shall a bushel of fine flour be worth a shekel, and two bushels of barley a shekel, under the gate of Samaria. 2. And the knight, upon whose hand the king leaned, answered the man of God, and said, And if the LORD made windows in heaven, how could this be? And he said, Behold, with thine eyes shalt thou see it, and shalt not eat thereof. 3. And there were four lepers at the door of the gate: and one said unto another: Why shall we tarry here until we die? 4. If we would come into the city, there is famine in the city, and we should die there: but if we tarry here, we shall die also. Now therefore let us go and fall to the army of the Syrians. If they let us live, we will live; if they kill us, we will be dead. 5. And they rose up early in the morning, that they might come unto the host of the Syrians. And when they were come to the place of the host, behold, there was none there. 6. For the LORD had made the Syrians to hear a shout of chariots of horses, and of great strength, saying one to another, Behold, the king of Israel hath brought against us the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of the Egyptians, to come upon us. 7. And they arose and fled early in the morning, and left their tents, and their horses, and their asses, in the camp, as it was, and fled away with their lives. 8. And when the lepers were come to the place of the camp, they went into one tent, and did eat and drink, and took silver, and gold, and raiment, and went and hid it: and they came again, and entered into another tent, and took out of it, and went and hid it. 9. But one said unto another: Let us not do so! This day is a day of good tidings. If we keep silence, and wait till the morning light, our iniquity shall be found: let us go therefore, and come and tell it unto the king's house. 10. And when they were come, they called at the gate of the city, and told them, saying: We are come to the camp of the Syrians: and, behold, there is none there, neither voice of man, but horses and asses tied, and the tents as they stand. 11. And they called unto the porters, that they should tell it within the king's house. 12. And the king arose in the night, and said unto his servants: Let it be told you how the Syrians deal with us. They know that we are famished, and are gone out of the camp, that they may crouch in the field: and they think, If they go out of the city, we will take them alive, and come into the city. 13. And one of his servants answered and said, Take the five remaining horses that are left in the house, (behold, they are left in the house of all the multitude of Israel, which are all gone,) and let us send and see them. 14. And they took two chariots with horses, and the king sent them after the camp of the Syrians, and said, Go ye, and possess. 15. And when they came after them unto Jordan, behold, the way was full of garments and vessels, which the Syrians had cast off, as they hasted. And when the messengers were returned, they told the king, 16. And the people went out, and spoiled the camp of the Syrians. And the price of a bushel of fine flour was a shekel, and of two bushels of barley a shekel, according to the word of the LORD. 17. And the king appointed the knight, upon whose hand he leaned, under the gate. And the people trode him down in the gate: and he died, as the man of God spake, when the king came down unto him. 18. And it came to pass, as the man of God told the king, saying, To morrow about this time shall two bushels of barley be worth a shekel, and a bushel of fine flour a shekel, under the gate of Samaria; 19. And the knight answered the man of God, and said, Behold, if the LORD made windows in heaven, how shall it be done? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, and shalt not eat thereof. 20. And it was so with him: for the people trode him down in the gate, and he died. (2 Kings) Chapter 8 Seven years of teurung. Change in the kingdom of the Syrians. Joram and Ahaziah, kings in Judah. 1. And Elisha spake unto the woman whose son he had quickened, saying, Arise, and go with thy house, and be a stranger whithersoever thou canst: for the LORD shall call for a plague, which shall come into the land seven years. 2. And the woman arose, and did according to the word of the man of God, and went with her household, and sojourned in the land of the Philistines seven years. 3. And when the seven years were expired, the woman came again out of the land of the Philistines, and went out to cry unto the king for her house and her land. 4. And the king spake unto Gehazi the son of the man of God, saying, Tell me all the great works that Elisha hath done. 5. And as he told the king how he had quickened a dead man, behold, the woman came even now whose son he had quickened, and cried unto the king for her house and her land. Then said Gehazi, My lord the king, this is the woman, and this is her son, whom Elisha hath quickened. 6. And the king asked the woman, and she told him. And the king gave her a chamberlain, and said, Restore unto her all that is hers, and all the revenue of the field, from the time that she left the land until now. 7. And Elisha came to Damascus. And Benhadad king of Syria lay sick: and it was told him, saying, The man of God is come hither. 8. And the king said unto Hazael, Take the present with thee, and go to meet the man of God, and inquire of the LORD by him, saying, If I may recover of this disease. 9. And Hazael went out to meet him, and took a present with him, and all the goods of Damascus, forty camels' weight. And when he was come, he stood before him, and said. Thy son Benhadad king of Syria hath sent me unto thee, saying, Can I also recover of this disease? 10. And Elisha said unto him, Go and tell him, Thou shalt recover: but the LORD hath shewed me that he shall surely die. 11. And the man of God looked gravely, and stood unruly, and wept. 12. And Hazael said, Why weepeth my lord? And he said: I know the evil that thou wilt do unto the children of Israel. Thou wilt burn their strong cities with fire, and slay their young men with the sword, and slay their young children, and cut in pieces their women with child. 13. And Hazael said, What is thy servant the dog, that he should do this great thing? And Elisha said, The LORD hath shewed me that thou shalt be king in Syria. 14. And he departed from Elisha, and came to his lord, and he said unto him, What said Elisha unto thee? And he said, He said unto me, Thou shalt recover. 15. And the next day he took the colter, and dipped it in water, and spread it over him, and died. And Hazael reigned in his stead. 16. In the fifth year of Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel was Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat king in Judah. 17. Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem. 18. And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as did the house of Ahab: for Ahab's daughter was his wife: and he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD. 19. But the LORD would not destroy Judah for David his servant's sake; as he had spoken to him, to give him a lamp among his children for ever. 20. In his days the Edomites fell away from Judah, and made a king over them. 21. For Jehoram passed through Zair, and all the chariots with him, and rose up by night, and smote the Edomites that were round about him, and the captains of the chariots, and the people fled into their tents. 22. Therefore the Edomites fell from Judah unto this day. Libnah also fell away at the same time. 23. And the rest of the acts of Jehoram, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 24. And Jehoram slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And Ahaziah his son reigned in his stead. 25. In the twelfth year of Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel was Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king in Judah. 26. Ahaziah was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Athaliah, daughter of Amri king of Israel. 27. And he walked in the way of the house of Ahab, and did evil in the sight of the LORD, as did the house of Ahab: for he was the brother in law of the house of Ahab. 28. And he went with Jehoram the son of Ahab to battle against Hazael king of Syria to Ramoth in Gilead: but the Syrians smote Jehoram. 29. And Jehoram the king returned to be healed in Jezreel of the blows which the Syrians had smitten him in Ramah, when he fought with Hazael king of Syria. And Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah came down to see Jehoram the son of Ahab in Jezreel, because he was sick. (2 Kings) Chapter 9 Jehu anointed king; kills Joram, Ahaziah and Jezebel. 1. And Elisha the prophet called one of the children of the prophets, and said unto him, Gird up thy loins, and take this pitcher of oil with thee, and go to Ramoth in Gilead. 2. And when thou comest thither, thou shalt see there Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi. And go in, and raise him up among his brethren, and bring him into the innermost chamber. 3. And take the pitcher of oil, and pour it upon his head, and say, Thus saith the LORD, I have anointed thee king over Israel. And thou shalt open the door, and flee, and not be pardoned. 4. And the young man of the prophet, the lad, went to Ramoth in Gilead. 5. And when he was come in, behold, the captains of the host sat there. And he said: I have something to say to thee, captain. And Jehu said, To whom of us all? And he said, To thee, O captain. 6. And he arose, and went in. And he poured the oil upon his head, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over the LORD'S people Israel. 7. And thou shalt smite the house of Ahab thy master, to avenge the blood of the prophets my servants, and the blood of all the servants of the LORD, from the hand of Jezebel, 8. And all the house of Ahab shall perish. And I will cut off from Ahab him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up, and him that is left in Israel. 9. And I will make the house of Ahab like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and like the house of Baasha the son of Ahijah. 10. And the dogs shall eat Jezebel in the field at Jezreel, and none shall bury her. And he opened the door, and fled. 11. And when Jehu was come out unto the servants of his lord, they said unto him, Is it well? Why is this frenzied man come unto thee? And he said unto them: Ye know the man well, and what he saith. 12. And they said: This is not true; but declare it unto us. And he said, Thus and thus hath he spoken unto me, saying, Thus saith the LORD, I have anointed thee king over Israel. 13. And they hasted, and took every man his garment, and laid it under him upon the high stairs, and blew with the trumpet, and said: Jehu is become king! 14. So Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi made a covenant against Joram. And Jehoram lay before Ramoth in Gilead, and all Israel, against Hazael king of Syria. 15. And Jehoram the king returned to be healed in Jezreel of the blows which the Syrians had smitten him, when he fought with Hazael king of Syria. And Jehu said: If it be your mind, let no man escape out of the city, that he may go and prophesy in Jezreel. 16. And he was led, and went to Jezreel, because Jehoram was there: so Ahaziah king of Judah went down to see Jehoram. 17. And the watchman that stood in the tower of Jezreel saw the company of Jehu coming, and said: I see a company. And Jehoram said, Take a horseman, and send against them, and say, Is it peace? 18. And the horseman went to meet him, and said, Thus saith the king, Is it peace? And Jehu said, What is peace to thee? Turn thee behind me. And the watchman declared, and said, The messenger is come to them, and will not return. 19. And he sent another horseman. And when he came to him, he said, Thus saith the king, Is it peace? And Jehu said, What is peace to thee? Turn thee behind me. 20. And the watchman declared it, saying, He is come unto them, and will not return. And it is a driving as the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi: for he driveth as he would be foolish. 21. And Joram said, Hitch up your chariots. And they harnessed his chariot; and they went out, Jehoram king of Israel, and Ahaziah king of Judah, every man in his chariot, to meet Jehu: and they met him in the field of Naboth the Jezreelite. 22. And when Jehoram saw Jehu, he said, Jehu, is it peace? And he said, What peace? Thy mother Jezebel's whoredoms and sorceries increase. 23. And Joram turned his hand, and fled, and said unto Ahaziah, It is treachery, Ahaziah. 24. But Jehu took the bow, and shot Jehoram between the arms, so that the arrow went out through his heart; and he fell into his chariot. 25. And he said unto Bidekar the knight, Take thee, and cast him into the field of Naboth the Jezreelite. For I remember that thou wentest with me in a chariot after Ahab his father, that the LORD laid such a burden upon him. 26. What is the matter, said the LORD, I will recompense thee the blood of Naboth, and of his children, which I saw yesterday, upon this field? Now therefore take, and cast it into the field, according to the word of the LORD. 27. And when Ahaziah king of Judah saw it, he fled by the way unto the house of the garden. And Jehu pursued after him, and caused him to go up in the chariot unto Gur, which is by Jeblaam. And he fled to Megiddo, and died there. 28. And his servants brought him to Jerusalem, and buried him in his sepulchre with his fathers in the city of David. 29. And Ahaziah reigned over Judah in the eleventh year of Jehoram the son of Ahab. 30. And it came to pass, when Jehu was come to Jezreel, that when Jezebel heard of it, she made up her face, and decked her head, and looked out at the window. 31. And when Jehu was come under the gate, she said: Is Zimri well, who slew his master? 32. And he lifted up his face to the window, and said, Who is here with me? and two or three eunuchs turned unto him. 33. And he said, Cast her down. And they cast her down, and the wall and the horses were sprinkled with her blood: and she was trodden down. 34. And when he was come in, and had eaten and drunk, he said, Behold the accursed woman, and bury her: for she is a king's daughter. 35. And when they went to bury her, they found nothing of her but the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands. 36. And they came again, and told him. And he said, It is this that the LORD spake by Elijah his servant the Hibite, saying, In the field of Jezreel shall the dogs of Jezebel eat flesh. 37. So the carcase of Jezebel was as the dung of the field in the field of Jezreel, that it could not be said: This is Jezebel. (2 Kings) Chapter 10 Extermination of the family of Ahab and the Baal apes. 1. And Ahab had seventy sons in Samaria. And Jehu wrote letters, and sent them to Samaria unto the rulers of the city of Jezreel, unto the elders and guardians of Ahab, saying thus: 2. When this letter cometh unto you, with whom your lord's sons are, chariots, horses, strong cities, and armour, 3. Then see which of your lord's is the best and the most skillful, and set him in his father's seat, and fight for your lord's house. 4. And they were almost afraid, and said, Behold, two kings have not stood before him: how then shall we stand? 5. And they that were over the house, and over the city, and the elders, and the guardians, sent unto Jehu, saying, We are thy servants; we will do all that thou sayest unto us; we will make no man king. Do what pleases thee! 6. And he wrote another letter unto them, saying, If ye be mine, and if ye hearken unto my voice, take the heads of the men that are your lord's sons, and bring them unto me to Jezreel to morrow about this time. (Now the king's sons were seventy men, and the greatest of the city brought them up). 7. And when the letter came unto them, they took the king's sons, and slew seventy men, and put their heads in baskets, and sent them unto him to Jezreel. 8. And when the messenger came and told him, saying, They have brought the king's children's heads, he said, Lay them in two heaps at the door of the gate until to morrow. 9. And it came to pass in the morning, when he was gone out, that he stood and said unto all the people, Ye are right. Behold, have I made a covenant against my lord, and slain him? Who then hath smitten all these? 10. Ye know therefore that there fell not a word of the LORD upon the earth, which the LORD spake against the house of Ahab: and the LORD did as he spake by his servant Elijah. 11. So Jehu smote all the remnant of the house of Ahab that was in Jezreel, all his great men, and his kinsmen, and his priests, until not one remained unto him. 12. And he arose, and went, and came to Samaria. And there was a shepherd's house by the way. 13. And Jehu met the brethren of Ahaziah king of Judah, and said, Who are ye? And they said: We are the brethren of Ahaziah, and go down to salute the king's children, and the queen's children. 14. And he said, Take them alive. And they took them alive, and slew them at the well by the shepherd's house, forty and two men, and left not one of them. 15. And as he departed thence, he found Jonadab the son of Rechab meeting him, and greeted him, and said unto him, Is thy heart right, as my heart is right with thy heart? And Jonadab said, Yea. If it be so, give me thine hand. And he gave him his hand. And he made him sit with him in the chariot. 16. And said, Come with me, and see my zeal for the LORD. And they led him with him in his chariot. 17. And when he was come to Samaria, he smote all that remained of Ahab in Samaria, until he had destroyed him, according to the word of the LORD which he spake unto Elijah. 18. And Jehu gathered all the people together, and said unto them, Ahab hath served Baal little; Jehu will serve him much. 19. Now therefore let all the prophets of Baal, and all his servants, and all his priests, cry unto me, that no man miss: for I have a great sacrifice to make unto Baal. Whomsoever shall be missed, he shall not live. But Jehu did this to put an end to the servants of Baal. 20. And Jehu said, Sanctify the feast unto Baal, and let it be proclaimed. 21. And Jehu sent throughout all Israel, and called for all the servants of Baal, that there should not be left any that should not come. And they came into the house of Baal; and the house of Baal was filled at every end. 22. Then said he unto them that were over the house of garments: Bring out all the servants of Baal's garments. And they brought forth the garments. 23. And Jehu went into the church of Baal with Jonadab the son of Rechab, and said unto the servants of Baal, Search ye, and see that there be no servant of the LORD here among you, but Baal's servant only. 24. And when they were come in to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings, Jehu appointed him fourscore men without, saying, If any of the men which I shall put in your hand escape, his soul shall be for his soul. 25. And it came to pass, when he had finished the burnt offerings, that Jehu said unto the guard and to the knights, Go in, smite every man, and let no man go out. And they smote them with the edge of the sword. And the satellites and the knights cast them away, and went to the city of the church of Baal. 26. And they brought out the pillars of the church of Baal, and burned them. 27. And they brake down the pillar of Baal, and the church of Baal, and made it a secret chamber unto this day. 28. So Jehu destroyed Baal out of Israel. 29. But of the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin, Jehu left not, of the calves of gold that were in Bethel, and in Dan. 30. And the LORD said unto Jehu, Because thou hast been willing to do that which is right in mine eyes, and hast done in the house of Ahab all that was in mine heart, let thy children sit on thy throne of Israel unto the fourth generation. 31. But Jehu kept not the law of the LORD God of Israel with all his heart: for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, who had made Israel to sin. 32. At that time the LORD began to be weary of Israel: for Hazael smote them throughout all the coasts of Israel, 33. From Jordan toward the rising of the sun, and all the land of Gilead, of the Gadites, and the Reubenites, and the Manassites, from Aroer, which is by the river near Arnon, and Gilead, and Bashan. 34. And the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 35. And Jehu slept with his fathers, and they buried him in Samaria. And Jehoahaz his son reigned in his stead. 36. And the time that Jehu reigned over Israel in Samaria was twenty and eight years. (2 Kings) Chapter 11 Athaliah's tyranny. Joas' coronation. 1. And Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah, when she saw that her son was dead, arose and destroyed all the seed of the king. 2. And Jehosheba the daughter of king Jehoram, Ahaziah's sister, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him out of the king's children that were slain, with his nurse in the bedchamber; and they hid him from Athaliah, that he should not be slain. 3. And he was hid with her in the house of the LORD six years. And Athaliah was queen of the land. 4. And in the seventh year Jehoiada sent, and took the captains of hundreds, and the captains of the guard, and brought them unto him into the house of the LORD, and made a covenant with them, and took an oath of them in the house of the LORD, and shewed them the king's son. 5. And he commanded them, saying, This is the thing that ye shall do, that the third part of you which go in on the sabbath day shall keep the watch in the king's house; 6. And a third part shall be at the gate of Sur, and a third part at the gate that is behind the satellites: and the guard shall be at the house of Massa. 7. But two parts of you all, which depart on the sabbath day, shall keep the watch in the house of the LORD for the king. 8. And ye shall compass the king round about, every man with his armour in his hand: and whosoever cometh in between the wall, let him die, that ye may be with the king when he goeth out and when he cometh in. 9. And the captains of an hundred did according to all that Jehoiada the priest commanded them, and took their men that came in on the sabbath with them that went out on the sabbath, and came unto Jehoiada the priest. 10. And the priest gave unto the captains of the guard spears and shields, which had been David's, which were in the house of the LORD. 11. And the guard stood round about the king, every man with his armour in his hand, from the corner of the house on the right hand even unto the corner of the house on the left hand, toward the altar, and toward the house. 12. And he brought forth the king's son, and put a crown upon him, and gave him the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him, and joined their hands together, and said: Happy is the king! 13. And when Athaliah heard the cry of the people that ran, she came unto the people into the house of the LORD. 14. And, behold, the king stood by the pillar, as was his custom, and the singers and the trumpeters by the king: and all the people of the land were glad, and blew with the trumpets: but Athaliah rent her clothes, and said, Rebellion, rebellion! 15. And Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of hundreds that were set over the host, and said unto them: Bring her out unto the house into the court: and whosoever followeth her, let him die by the sword. For the priest had said that she should not die in the house of the LORD. 16. And they laid hands on her, and she went in by the way of the horses unto the king's house, and was slain there. 17. And Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD, and the king, and the people, that they should be the LORD'S people: so also between the king and the people. 18. And all the people of the land went into the church of Baal, and brake down his altars, and brake his images in pieces: and they slew Mathan the priest of Baal before the altars. And the priest appointed the offices of the house of the LORD. 19. And he took the captains of hundreds, and the captains of the guard, and all the people of the land, and brought the king down from the house of the LORD, and came by the way of the gate of the guard unto the king's house: and he sat upon the king's throne. 20. And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword in the king's house. 21. And Joash was seven years old when he began to reign. (2 Kings) Chapter 12 Reign of Joash king of Judah. 1. In the seventh year of Jehu Joash reigned king, and reigned forty years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Zibea of Bersaba. 2. And Joash did that which was right and pleasing in the sight of the LORD, as long as Jehoiada the priest taught him, 3. Notwithstanding they removed not the high places: for the people sacrificed and burned incense yet in the high places. 4. And Joash said unto the priests, All the money that is sanctified, that it may be brought into the house of the LORD, which is common, the money that every man giveth in the estimation of his soul, and all the money that every man offereth freely, that it may be brought into the house of the LORD, 5. And let the priests take them, every one of his acquaintance. And they shall repair that which is broken down in the house of the LORD, where they find it broken down. 6. And it came to pass, when the priests had not repaired the house that was broken down until the three and twentieth year of Joash the king, that the priests repaired it, 7. And king Joash called for Jehoiada the priest, and for the priests, and said unto them: Why do ye not repair that which is broken down in the house? Now therefore ye shall not take the money, every man of his acquaintance, unto yourselves; but ye shall give it unto that which is broken down in the house. 8. And the priests granted not to take money of the people, neither to repair the building of the house. 9. And Jehoiada the priest took an ark, and bored a hole in the top thereof, and set it by the right hand of the altar, where they go into the house of the LORD. And the priests that kept the threshold put therein all the money that was brought into the house of the LORD. 10. And it came to pass, when they saw that there was much money in the ark, that the king's scribe came up with the high priest, and bound up the money, and numbered it, which was found for the house of the LORD. 11. And they gave the money in cash unto them that wrought and appointed the house of the LORD: and they gave it out unto the carpenters that wrought and appointed the house of the LORD, 12. To the masons, and to the stonecutters, and to them that bought timber and hewn stone, to repair the dilapidations of the house of the LORD, and to repair all that they found needful in the house. 13. But they made not silver bowls, psalteries, cymbals, trumpets, nor any vessels of gold or silver, in the house of the LORD, of the money that was brought into the house of the LORD, 14. But it was given to the workmen, that they might repair with it that which was broken down in the house of the LORD. 15. Neither charged the men, to whom the money was given, that they should give it to the labourers: but they dealt in faith. 16. But the money of trespass offerings and of sin offerings was not brought into the house of the LORD: for it was the priest's. 17. At that time Hazael king of Syria went up, and fought against Gath, and took them. And when Hazael set his face to go up to Jerusalem, 18. And Jehoash king of Judah took all that was hallowed, which Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, and Ahaziah, kings of Judah, his fathers, had hallowed, and that which he had hallowed, and all the gold that was found in the treasury of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and sent it unto Hazael king of Syria. Then he departed from Jerusalem. 19. And the rest of the acts of Jehoash, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? 20. And his servants rebelled, and made a league, and smote him in the house of Millo, when they go down to Silla. 21. For Jehoshabar the son of Shimeath, and Jehozabad the son of Shomer, his servants, slew him. And they buried him with his fathers in the city of David. And his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 13 Government of Jehoahaz and Joash. 1. In the twenty and third year of Jehoahaz the son of Ahaziah king of Judah, Jehoahaz the son of Jehu reigned over Israel in Samaria seventeen years. 2. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin, and departed not from it. 3. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he delivered them into the hand of Hazael king of Syria, and into the hand of Benhadad the son of Hazael, all the days of their life. 4. But Jehoahaz besought the LORD in his face. And the LORD hearkened unto him: for he saw the affliction of Israel, how that the king of Syria oppressed them. 5. And the LORD gave Israel a Saviour, which brought them out of the hand of the Syrians, that the children of Israel might dwell in their tents, as before. 6. But they departed not from the sin of the house of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin, but walked therein. And the grove of Samaria stood still. 7. For there remained no more of Jehoahaz's people than fifty horsemen, ten chariots, and ten thousand footmen. For the king of Syria had slain them, and made them as the dust of the threshingfloor. 8. And the rest of the acts of Jehoahaz, and all that he did, and his might, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 9. And Jehoahaz slept with his fathers, and they buried him in Samaria. And Jehoash his son reigned in his stead. 10. In the thirty and seventh year of Jehoash king of Judah, Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz reigned over Israel in Samaria sixteen years. 11. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and repented not of all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin, but walked in them. 12. And the rest of the acts of Jehoash, and what he did, and his might, how he fought with Amaziah king of Judah, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 13. And Joash slept with his fathers, and Jeroboam sat upon his throne. And Joash was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. 14. And Elisha was sick, and died. And Joash king of Israel came down unto him, and wept before him, and said, My father, my father, chariots of Israel, and his horsemen. 15. And Elisha said unto him, Take the bow and the arrows. And when he had taken the bow and the arrows, 16. And he said unto the king of Israel, Draw the bow with thine hand. And he drew with his hand. And Elisha put his hand upon the king's hand. 17. And said, Open the window toward the east. And he opened it. And Elisha said, Shoot. And he shot. And he said, An arrow of salvation from the LORD, an arrow of salvation against the Syrians: and thou shalt smite the Syrians at Aphek, until they be consumed. 18. And he said, Take the arrows. And when he had taken them, he said unto the king of Israel, Smite the earth. And he smote thrice, and stood still. 19. And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, If thou hadst smitten five or six times, thou wouldest have smitten the Syrians until they were consumed: but now thou shalt smite them thrice. 20. And it came to pass, when Blisha was dead, and they had buried him, that the men of war of Moab fell into the land of that year. 21. And it came to pass, that they buried a man: and when they saw the men of war, they cast the man into Elisha's sepulchre. And when he was come, and touched the bones of Elisha, he quickened, and stood upon his feet. 22. So Hazael king of Syria constrained Israel all the days of Jehoahaz. 23. But the LORD had mercy upon them, and had compassion on them, and turned unto them for his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and would not destroy them, neither cast them out of his sight, even unto this hour. 24. And Hazael king of Syria died, and Benhadad his son reigned in his stead. 25. And Jehoash returned, and took the cities out of the hand of Benhadad the son of Hazael, which he had taken out of the hand of Jehoahaz his father with strife. Three times Joash smote him, and brought again the cities of Israel. (2 Kings) Chapter 14 Amaziah and Azariah, kings in Judah. Jeroboam the second in Israel. 1. In the second year of Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz king of Israel, Ahaziah the son of Jehoash king of Judah reigned. 2. He was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Joadan of Jerusalem. 3. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD: yet not as David his father did, but as Joash his father did he also. 4. For the high places were not removed, but the people sacrificed and burned incense in the high places. 5. And when he had become mighty in the kingdom, he smote his servants that smote his father the king. 6. But the children of the murderers he slew not. He slew not them: as it is written in the book of the law of Moses, where the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not die for the children, neither shall the children die for the fathers; but every man shall die for his own sin. 7. And he smote ten thousand of the Edomites in the valley of the salt, and took the city of Selah with battle; and called it Jaktheel unto this day. 8. And Amaziah sent messengers unto Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz the son of Jehu king of Israel, saying, Come, and let us see one another. 9. But Joash king of Israel sent unto Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The briar that is in Lebanon sent unto the cedar tree of Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife. And the wild beasts of the field of Lebanon ran upon the briar, and trod it down. 10. Thou hast smitten the Edomites; thine heart is lifted up. Have glory, and dwell in the land: why wilt thou strive for evil, that thou shouldest fall, and Judah with thee? 11. But Amaziah hearkened not. Then Joash king of Israel went up; and they looked together, he and Amaziah king of Judah, at Bethshemesh, which is in Judah. 12. And Judah was smitten before Israel, and every man fled into his tent. 13. And Jehoash king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Jehoash the son of Ahaziah, at Bethshemesh, and came to Jerusalem, and brake down the walls of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim unto the corner gate four hundred cubits. 14. And he took all the gold, and the silver, and the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and the children for a pledge, and returned to Samaria. 15. And the rest of the acts of Jehoash, which he did, and his might, and how he fought with Amaziah king of Judah, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 16. And Joash slept with his fathers, and was buried in Samaria among the kings of Israel. And Jeroboam his son reigned in his stead. 17. And Amaziah the son of Jehoash king of Judah lived after the death of Jehoahaz the son of Jehoahaz king of Israel fifteen years. 18. And the rest of the acts of Amaziah are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 19. And they made a covenant against him at Jerusalem; and he fled to Lachish. And they sent after him to Lachish, and slew him there. 20. And they brought him on horses, and he was buried at Jerusalem with his fathers in the city of David. 21. And all the people of Judah took Azariah in his sixteenth year, and made him king instead of Amaziah his father. 22. And he built Elath, and brought it again to Judah, after that the king slept with his fathers. 23. In the fifteenth year of Amaziah the son of Joash king of Judah, Jeroboam the son of Joash reigned over Israel in Samaria forty and one years. 24. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, and departed not from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin. 25. And he brought again the border of Israel from Hemath even unto the sea that is in the plain, according to the word of the LORD God of Israel, which he spake by his servant Jonah the son of Amithai the prophet, which was of Gath Hepher. 26. For the LORD saw the affliction of Israel, that they also which were shut up and forsaken were consumed, and that there was no helper in Israel. 27. And the LORD spake not that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, but helped them by Jeroboam the son of Joash. 28. And the rest of the acts of Jeroboam, and all that he did, and his might, and how he fought, and how he restored Damascus and Hemath unto Judah in Israel, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 29. And Jeroboam passed away with his fathers, with the kings of Israel. And Zechariah his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 15 Government of several kings in Judah and Israel. 1. In the twenty and seventh year of Jeroboam king of Israel was king Azariah the son of Amaziah king of Judah. 2. And he was sixteen years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and two years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jechaliah of Jerusalem. 3. And did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, even as Amaziah his father did, 4. Notwithstanding they removed not the high places: for the people sacrificed and burned incense yet in the high places. 5. And the LORD afflicted the king, and he was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a house but one. And Jotham the king's son ruled the house, and judged the people of the land. 6. And the rest of the acts of Azariah, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 7. And Azariah slept with his fathers, and they buried him with his fathers in the city of David. And Jotham his son reigned in his stead. 8. In the thirty and eighth year of Azariah king of Judah was king Zechariah the son of Jeroboam over Israel in Samaria six months. 9. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his fathers had done. He desisted not from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin. 10. And Shallum the son of Jabesh made a league against him, and smote him before the people, and slew him; and he reigned in his stead. 11. And the rest of the acts of Zechariah, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 12. And this is it that the LORD Jehu spake, saying, Thy children shall sit in the fourth generation upon the throne of Israel: and it was so. 13. And Shallum the son of Jabe reigned in the thirty and ninth year of Azariah king of Judah, and reigned one month in Samaria. 14. For Menahem the son of Gadi went up from Tirzah, and came to Samaria, and smote Shallum the son of Jabe in Samaria, and slew him, and reigned in his stead. 15. And the rest of the acts of Shallum, and the covenant which he made, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 16. Then Menahem smote Tiphsah, and all that were therein, and their border of Tirzah, because they would not let him in; and smote all their pregnant women, and rent them. 17. In the thirty and ninth year of Azariah king of Judah was king Menahem the son of Gadi over Israel ten years in Samaria. 18. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD. He departed not from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin, all the days of his life. 19. And Phul king of Assyria came into the land. And Menahem gave Phul a thousand talents of silver to keep with him, and confirmed the kingdom unto him. 20. And Menahem set a money in Israel upon the richest, fifty shekels of silver upon every man, to give to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria returned home, and abode not in the land. 21. And the rest of the acts of Menahem, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 22. And Menahem slept with his fathers: and Pekahiah his son reigned in his stead. 23. In the fiftieth year of Azariah king of Judah was Pekahiah the son of Menahem king over Israel in Samaria two years. 24. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: for he repented not of the sin of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin. 25. And Pekah the son of Remaliah his knight made a league against him, and smote him in Samaria in the palace of the king's house, with Argob and Arne, and fifty men with him of the children of Gilead, and slew him: and he reigned in his stead. 26. And the rest of the acts of Pekahiah, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 27. In the fifty and second year of Azariah king of Judah was king Pekah the son of Remaliah over Israel in Samaria twenty years. 28. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: for he repented not of the sin of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin. 29. In the days of Pekah king of Israel came Tiglath-pilesser king of Assyria, and took Ijon, and Abel-beth-maechah, and Janoah, and Kedesh, and Hazor, and Gilead, and Galilee, and all the land of Naphtali, and carried them away into Assyria. 30. And Hosea the son of Elah made a league against Pekah the son of Remaliah, and slew him: and he reigned in his stead in the twentieth year of Jotham the son of Uzziah. 31. And the rest of the acts of Pekah, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. 32. In the second year of Pekah the son of Remaliah king of Israel, Jotham the son of Uzziah king of Judah reigned. 33. And he was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jerusa, a daughter of Zadok. 34. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that Uzziah his father had done, 35. Notwithstanding they removed not the high places: for the people sacrificed and burned incense in the high places. And he built the high gate of the house of the LORD. 36. And the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 37. At that time the LORD began to send into Judah Rezin king of Syria, and Pekah the son of Remaliah. 38. And Jotham slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Ahaz his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 16 Ahaz and his government. 1. In the seventeenth year of Pekah the son of Remaliah was king Ahaz the son of Jotham king of Judah. 2. Ahaz was twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem: and he did not that which was right in the sight of the LORD his God, as did David his father. 3. For he walked in the way of the kings of Israel. For this cause he made his son to pass through the fire, according to the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD had cast out from before the children of Israel; 4. And they offered sacrifices, and burned incense in the high places, and in the hills, and among all the green trees. 5. Then Rezin king of Syria, and Pekah the son of Remaliah king of Israel, went up to Jerusalem to battle, and besieged Ahaz; but they could not prevail against them. 6. At that time Rezin king of Syria brought Elath again into Syria, and thrust out the Jews from Elath: but the Syrians came and dwelt therein unto this day. 7. And Ahaz sent messengers unto Tiglathpilesser king of Assyria, saying, I am thy servant, and I am thy son: come up, and save me out of the hand of the king of Syria, and out of the hand of the king of Israel, which have risen up against me. 8. And Ahaz took the silver and the gold that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and sent gifts unto the king of Assyria. 9. And the king of Assyria hearkened unto him, and went up to Damascus, and took them, and led them away to Kir, and slew Rezin. 10. And king Ahaz went to Damascus to meet Tiglathpilesser king of Assyria. And when he saw an altar that was in Damascus, king Ahaz sent the image and likeness of the same altar unto Uriah the priest, how it was made. 11. And Uriah the priest built an altar, and made it, as king Ahaz had sent unto him from Damascus, until king Ahaz came from Damascus. 12. And when the king of Damascus was come, and saw the altar, he offered upon it. 13. And he burnt his burnt offering, and his meat offering, and poured out his drink offerings thereon, and sprinkled the blood of the peace offerings, which he offered, upon the altar. 14. But the brasen altar that was before the LORD he took away, that it should not stand between the altar and the house of the LORD: but he set it at the corner of the altar northward. 15. And king Alias commanded Uriah the priest, saying, Upon the great altar thou shalt burn the burnt offerings of the morning, and the meat offerings of the evening, and the king's burnt offerings, and his meat offering, and the burnt offerings of all the people of the land, with their meat offering, and their drink offerings, and all the blood of the burnt offerings; and the blood of all the sacrifices shalt thou sprinkle upon it: but with the brasen altar I will think what I will do. 16. And Uriah the priest did all that Alias the king commanded him. 17. And king Ahaz brake off the sides of the stalls, and put the caldrons on the top of them; and he took the sea from the bullocks that were under it, and set it upon the pavement of stone. 18. And the covering of the sabbath, which they had built upon the house, and the king's course without, he turned unto the house of the LORD, to minister unto the king of Assyria. 19. And the rest of the acts of Ahaz, which he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 20. And Ahaz slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And Hezekiah his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 17 Under Hosea the ten tribes are led into Assyria. 1. In the twelfth year of Ahaz king of Judah, Hosea the son of Elah, nine years old, reigned over Israel in Samaria. 2. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, but not as the kings of Israel that were before him. 3. And against him went up Salma the Nasser, king of Assyria. And Hosea was subject unto him, that he gave him gifts. 4. And when the king of Assyria perceived that Hosea had made a covenant, and had sent messengers unto So king of Egypt, and had not presented gifts unto the king of Assyria every year, he besieged him, and put him in prison. 5. And the king of Assyria went throughout all the country, and unto Samaria, and besieged them three years. 6. And in the ninth year of Hoshea the king of Assyria took Samaria, and led Israel away to Assyria, and placed them in Halah, and in Habor, by the river of Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes. 7. For when the children of Israel sinned against the LORD their God, (who brought them up out of the land of Egypt, out of the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt,) and feared other gods 8. And they walked after the manner of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel. And they walked after the manner of the kings of Israel, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel; 9. And the children of Israel adorned their things against the LORD their God, which were not good: namely, they built them high places in every city, both in castles, and in strong cities, 10. And they set up pillars and groves in every high hill, and under every green tree; 11. And there they burned incense in every high place, as did the heathen whom the LORD had driven away before them, and did wickedly, that they might provoke the LORD to anger; 12. And they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them: Ye shall not do these things; 13. And when the LORD had testified in Israel and Judah by all the prophets and by all the showers, saying, Turn ye from your wicked ways, and keep my commandments and my statutes, according to all the law which I commanded your fathers, and which I sent unto you by my servants the prophets: 14. So they hearkened not, but hardened their necks, as the necks of their fathers, which believed not on the LORD their God; 15. And they despised his commandments, and his covenant which he had made with their fathers, and his testimonies which he had done among them; but walked after their own vanity, and became vain after the heathen that dwelt about them, of whom the LORD commanded them that they should not do like them; 16. But they forsook all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made them two cast calves, and groves; and worshipped all the hosts of heaven, and served Baal; 17. And they made their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire, and went about with divination and sorcery, and committed themselves to do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger; 18. And the LORD was very wroth with Israel, and removed them out of his sight; and there remained none but the tribe of Judah only. 19. Neither did Judah keep the commandments of the LORD their God, and walk after the manner of Israel, which they had done. 20. Therefore the LORD rejected all the seed of Israel, and pressed them, and delivered them into the hand of the spoilers, until he had cast them out of his sight. 21. For Israel was cut off from the house of David, and they made Jeroboam the son of Nebat king. And he turned Israel backward from the LORD, and made them to sin grievously. 22. So the children of Israel walked in all the sins of Jeroboam, which he had committed, and departed not from them, 23. Till the LORD had removed Israel out of his sight, as he spake by all his servants the prophets. So Israel was carried away out of his land into Assyria unto this day. 24. And the king of Assyria sent from Babylon, and from Cuthah, and from Ava, and from Hemath, and from Sepharvaim, and possessed the cities of Samaria instead of the children of Israel. And they took Samaria, and dwelt in the same. Cities. 25. And when they began to dwell there, and feared not the LORD, the LORD sent lions among them, and slew them. 26. And they said unto the king of Assyria, The heathen whom thou hast brought, and filled the cities of Samaria with them, know not the way of God in the land: therefore he hath sent lions among them, and, behold, they slay them, because they know not the way of God in the land. 27. And the king of Assyria commanded, saying, Bring thither one of the priests that are carried away from thence, and go and dwell there; and he shall teach them the manner of God in the land. 28. And there came one of the priests which were carried away from Samaria, and sat in Bethel, and taught them how they should fear the LORD. 29. But every people made his god, and put them in the houses which the Samaritans made in the high places, every people in their cities where they dwelt. 30. They of Babylon made Sukhoth-benoth. Those of Chuth made Nergel. Those of Hemath made Asima. 31. Those of Ava made Nibehas and Tharthak. Those of Sepharvaim burned their sons to the. Adramelech and Anamelech, the gods of those of Sepharvaim. 32. And because they also feared the LORD, they made them priests in the high places out of the lowest of them, and put them in the houses in the high places. 33. So they feared the LORD, and served the gods after the manner of every people whence they were brought. 34. And unto this day they do after the manner of old, not fearing the LORD, nor doing their statutes and their judgments, according to the law and the commandment, which the LORD commanded the children of Jacob, whom he called Israel, 35. And he made a covenant with them, and commanded them, saying, Fear no other gods, neither worship them, nor serve them, nor sacrifice unto them, 36. But the LORD, which brought you up out of the land of Egypt with great power and an outstretched arm, him fear, and him worship, and sacrifice unto him; 37. And the statutes, and the judgments, and the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments, which he hath commanded you to observe, that ye do them always, and fear not other gods; 38. and of the covenant which he hath made with you, forget not that ye fear not other gods, 39. But fear the LORD your God, which shall deliver you from all your enemies. 40. But these obeyed not, but did after their former manner. 41. So these nations feared the LORD, and served their idols also. So did their children, and their children's children, as their fathers did, unto this day. (2 Kings) Chapter 18 In the reign of Hezekiah, Jerusalem is besieged by Sanherib. 1. In the third year of Hoshea the son of Elah king of Israel was king Hezekiah the son of Ahaz king of Judah. 2. And he was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Abi, the daughter of Zechariah. 3. And that which was well pleasing in the sight of the LORD, as his father David. 4. And he cut down the high places, and brake down the pillars, and cut down the groves, and brake down the brazen serpent that Moses had made: for until that time the children of Israel had burned incense unto it, and it was called Nehusthan. 5. He trusted in the LORD God of Israel, that after him there was none like him among all the kings of Judah, neither was there any before him. 6. He cleaved unto the LORD, and departed not backward from him, and kept his commandments which the LORD commanded Moses. 7. And the LORD was with him; and whithersoever he went forth, he dealt wisely. For this cause he turned aside from the king of Assyria, and was not subject unto him. 8. And he smote the Philistines unto Gaza, and unto the border thereof, from the castles even unto the strong cities. 9. In the fourth year of Hezekiah king of Judah, which was the seventh year of Hoshea the son of Elah king of Israel, Salmanesser king of Assyria came up against Samaria, and besieged it; 10. And he took it after three years, in the sixth year of Hezekiah; that is, in the ninth year. Hosea king of Israel, when Samaria was won. 11. And the king of Assyria led Israel away to Assyria, and put them in Halah, and in Habor, by the river Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes, 12. Because they had not hearkened unto the voice of the LORD their God, and had transgressed his covenant, and all that Moses the servant of the LORD had commanded, whom they had neither hearkened unto, nor done. 13. Now in the fourteenth year of king Hezekiah went up Sanherib king of Assyria against all the strong cities of Judah, and took them. 14. And Hezekiah king of Judah sent unto the king of Assyria to Lachish, saying, I have sinned, turn from me; and I will bear that which thou layest upon me. So the king of Assyria laid on Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold. 15. So Hezekiah gave all the silver that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house. 16. At that time Hezekiah king of Judah brake the doors of the temple of the LORD, and the plates which he had overlaid, and gave them to the king of Assyria. 17. And the king of Assyria sent Tartan, and the arch-trustee, and Rabshakeh of Lachish, unto king Hezekiah, with great power, unto Jerusalem: and they went up. And when they were come, they stopped at the water-pit by the upper pool, which is by the way of the fuller's field. 18. And he called unto the king. And there came out unto them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah the chamberlain, and Sebena the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the chancellor. 19. And the archbishop said unto them: Beloved, say unto king Hezekiah, Thus saith the great king, the king of Assyria: What defiance is this, in which thou trustest? 20. Thinkest thou that there is yet counsel and power to fight? Whereunto then dost thou trust, that thou hast turned aside from me? 21. Behold, thou trustest in this broken reed, in Egypt? which, if any man lean upon it, it shall go into his hand, and pierce it. So Pharaoh king of Egypt is unto all them that trust in him. 22. But if ye will say unto me, We trust in the LORD our God: is not this he, whose high places and altars Hezekiah hath abolished, and hath said unto Judah and Jerusalem, Before this altar which is in Jerusalem shall ye worship? 23. Now therefore vow unto my lord the king of Assyria, that I will give thee two thousand horses, and that thou shalt add horsemen unto them. 24. How wilt thou then abide before the least of my lords, one of my lord's subjects, and trust in Egypt for chariots and horsemen? 25. But thinkest thou that I have gone up without the LORD, to destroy this place? The LORD hath said unto me, Go up into this land, and destroy it. 26. And Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Sebena, and Joah, said unto the prince of the arch, Speak unto thy servants in Syrian, for we understand it: speak not unto us in the Jews' tongue in the ears of the people that are upon the wall. 27. But the archbishop said unto them: Did my lord then send me to thy lord, or to thee, to speak such words? Yea, to the men that sit upon the wall, that they may eat their own dung with you, and drink their own urine. 28. And the prince stood, and cried with a loud voice in the Jews' language, and spake, saying, Hear the word of the great king, the king of Assyria. 29. Thus saith the king, Let not Hezekiah set you up; for he is not able to deliver you out of mine hand. 30. And let not Hezekiah put you off unto the LORD, saying, The LORD will deliver us, and this city shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria. 31. Do not obey Hezekiah. For thus saith the king of Assyria: Take hold of my grace, and come out unto me; and every man shall eat of his vine, and of his fig tree, and drink of his well, 32. Till I come and take you into a land like unto your own, where is corn, and wine, and bread, and vineyards, and olive trees, and oil, and honey; and ye shall live, and not die. Hearken not unto Hezekiah: for he deceiveth you, saying, The LORD will deliver us. 33. Have the gods also of the heathen delivered every man his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? 34. Where are the gods to Hemath and Arphad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim, Hena and Iwa? Have they also delivered Samaria out of my hand? 35. Where is there a God among all the gods of the earth, which have delivered their land out of mine hand, that the LORD should deliver Jerusalem out of mine hand? 36. And the people held their peace, and answered him nothing: for the king had commanded, saying, Answer him nothing. 37. And Eliakim the son of Hilkiah the chamberlain, and Zebenah the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the chancellor, came unto Hezekiah with their clothes rent, and told him the words of the prince. (2 Kings) Chapter 19 Sanherib's defiance and power is broken and shattered at Hezekiah's prayer. 1. And when Hezekiah the king heard it, he rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD. 2. And he sent Eliakim the chamberlain, and Shebena the scribe, and the eldest priests, clothed with sackcloth, unto Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz. 3. And they said unto him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This is a day of trouble, and reproach, and blasphemy; the children are come to the birth, and there is no strength to bring forth. 4. Whether the LORD thy God would hear all the words of the prince whom his lord the king of Assyria hath sent to reproach the living God, and to rebuke him with words which the LORD thy God hath heard. Save thy prayer for the rest that are left. 5. And when the servants of king Hezekiah came to Isaiah, 6. And Isaiah said unto them, Thus say ye unto your Lord, Thus saith the LORD; Fear not the words which thou hast heard, that the lads of the king of Assyria have blasphemed me, 7. Behold, I will give him a spirit, and he shall hear a rumour, and return unto his own land: and I will slay him with the sword in his own land. 8. And when the archbishop returned, he found the king of Assyria fighting against Libnah: for he had heard that he was come out of Lachish. 9. And when he heard of Tirhakah king of the Moors: Behold, he is gone out to fight with thee, he turned and sent messengers to Hezekiah, saying. 10. Thus say ye to Hezekiah king of Judah, Let not thy God be set up, in whom thou trustest, saying, Jerusalem shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria. 11. Behold, thou hast heard what the kings of Assyria have done unto all the countries, and hast utterly destroyed them: and thou shalt be saved? 12. Have the gods of the heathen saved them also, whom my fathers have destroyed; Gozan, Haran, Rezeph, and the children of Eden, which were in Thelassar? 13. Where is the king of Hemath, and the king of Arphad, and the king of the city of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Iwa? 14. And when Hezekiah had received the letters of the messengers, and had read them, he went up to the house of the LORD, and spread them out before the LORD. 15. And he prayed before the LORD, and said, O LORD God of Israel, which sitteth over cherubims, thou only art God among all the kingdoms of the earth; thou hast made heaven and earth. 16. O LORD, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold, and hear the words of Sanherib, which hath sent to mock the living GOD. 17. It is true, LORD, that the kings of Assyria slew the heathen with the sword, and destroyed their land. 18. And they have cast their gods into the fire. For they were not gods, but the work of men's hands, wood and stones: therefore they slew them. 19. But now, O LORD our God, save us out of his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou, O LORD, art God alone. 20. And Isaiah the son of Amoz sent unto Hezekiah, saying, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, What thou hast prayed unto me for Sanherib king of Assyria, that have I heard. 21. This is that the LORD hath spoken against him: The virgin the daughter of Zion despiseth thee, and mocketh thee: the daughter of Jerusalem shaketh her head at thee. 22. Whom hast thou heard and blasphemed? Against whom hast thou lifted up thy voice? Thou hast lifted up thine eyes against the Holy One of Israel. 23. Thou hast heard the LORD by thy messengers, saying, I have gone up through the multitude of my chariots unto the height of the mountains, unto the sides of Lebanon; I have cut down the tall cedars thereof, and the choice firs thereof, and am come unto the uttermost lodging place of the forest of his Carmel; 24. I have dug and drunk up the strange waters, and have dried up the lakes with the soles of my feet. 25. But hast thou not heard that I have done these things a long time before, and from the beginning have I prepared them? But now have I caused strong cities to fall into a desolate heap of stones, 26. And they that dwell therein shall be weary, and afraid, and ashamed, and shall be as the grass of the field, and as the green herb for hay upon the housetops, which withereth before it be ripe. 27. I know thy dwelling, and thy going out, and thy coming in, and that thou hast raged against me. 28. Because thou hast raged against me, and because thine insolence is come up into mine ears, I will put a ring upon thy nose, and a bit in thy mouth, and will bring thee again by the way whence thou camest. 29. And be a sign unto thee: In this year eat that which is trodden down; in the next year that which groweth of itself; in the third year sow, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruit thereof. 30. And the daughter of Judah, which is saved, and is left, shall take root among her, and bear fruit above her. 31. For from Jerusalem shall go forth them that are left, and them that are saved from mount Zion. The zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this. 32. Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria; He shall not enter into this city, neither shall he shoot an arrow therein, neither shall he put a shield before it, neither shall he build a wall round about it, 33. But he shall return by the way that he came, and shall not enter into that city: the LORD saith it. 34. And I will defend this city, and will help it for my sake, and for David my servant's sake. 35. And the same night the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of Assyria an hundred and fifty and five thousand men. And when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead bodies. 36. So Sanherib king of Assyria departed, and went away, and returned; and abode at Nineveh. 37. And when he worshipped in the house of Nisroch his god, Adramelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword, and they escaped into the land of Ararat. And Assar-haddon his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 20 Hiskia's illness, life extension, ambition and farewell. 1. In those days Hezekiah was sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Send thine house: for thou shalt die, and not live. 2. And he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying: 3. O LORD, remember that I have walked before thee faithfully, and with a righteous heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept greatly. 4. And when Isaiah was not yet half gone out of the city, the word of the LORD came unto him, saying: 5. Return, and say unto Hezekiah the prince of my people, Thus saith the LORD God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, and have seen thy tears. Behold, I will heal thee: the third day thou shalt go up into the house of the LORD. 6. And I will add fifteen years unto thy life. And I will do unto thy life fifteen years, and deliver thee and this city from the king of Assyria, and will defend this city for my sake, and for my servant David's sake. 7. And Isaiah said, Bring ye a piece of figs. And when they had brought them, they laid them upon the gland, and he was healed. 8. And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah: What sign is this, that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up to the house of the LORD the third day? 9. And Isaiah said, The sign shalt thou have of the LORD, that the LORD will do that which he hath spoken. Shall the shadow go forth ten steps, or go back ten steps? 10. And Hezekiah said, It is easy for the shadow to go down ten steps: I will not have it, but it shall go back ten steps behind him. 11. Then Isaiah the prophet called upon the LORD: and the shadow went back behind him ten steps at the hand of Ahaz, which he had gone down. 12. At that time Brodach the son of Baledan, the son of Baledan king of Babylon, sent letters and presents unto Hezekiah: for he had heard that Hezekiah was sick. 13. And Hezekiah was merry with them, and showed them all the treasury, silver, and gold, and spices, and the best oil, and the armoury, and all that was in his treasures. There was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah showed them not. 14. And Isaiah the prophet came to Hezekiah the king, and said unto him, What said these men, and whence came they unto thee? And Hezekiah said, They are come unto me from far countries, from Babylon. 15. And he said, What have they seen in thine house? And Hezekiah said, They have seen all that is in mine house; and there is nothing in my treasures, which I have not shewed them. 16. And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD. 17. Behold, the days come, that all things shall be carried away to Babylon out of thine house, and that which thy fathers have gathered unto this day; and nothing shall be left, saith the LORD. 18. And of the children that shall come of thee, which thou shalt beget, they shall be taken to be chamberlains in the palace of the king of Babylon. 19. And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah: This is good that the LORD hath spoken. And he said, Peace and faithfulness shall be in my days. 20. And the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and all his might, and all that he did, and the pool, and the pipes, that he might bring water into the city, behold, they are written in the book of Chronicles. Chronicles of the kings of Judah. 21. And Hezekiah slept with his fathers. And Manasseh his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 21 History of Manasseh and Amon, kings in Judah. 1. Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Hephzi-Bah. 2. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, according to the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD had cast out from before the children of Israel. 3. And he turned back, and built the high places which Hezekiah his father had removed, and set up altars unto Baal, and made groves, as Ahab king of Israel had done, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and ministered unto them. 4. And they built altars in the house of the LORD, whereof the LORD had said: I will set my name in Jerusalem. 5. And he built altars unto all the armies that were in heaven, in both courts of the house of the LORD. 6. And he made his son to pass through the fire, and hearkened unto the cry of birds, and to signs, and kept soothsayers and diviners: and he did much that was evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger. 7. And he set a hair idol, which he had made, in the house, of which the LORD spake unto David, and unto Solomon his son: In this house, and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, will I put my name for ever, 8. And I will no more move the foot of Israel from off the land which I gave unto their fathers, if they will keep and do according to all that I have commanded, and according to all the law which Moses my servant commanded them. 9. But they hearkened not: but Manasseh deceived them, and they did worse than the heathen, whom the LORD destroyed from before the children of Israel. 10. Then spake the LORD by his servants the prophets, saying: 11. Therefore Manasseh king of Judah hath done these abominations, which are worse than all the abominations that the Amorites did, which were before him: and he hath also made Judah to sin with his idols, 12. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Behold, I will bring evil upon Jerusalem and Judah; and whosoever shall hear it, both his ears shall ring. 13. And I will draw upon Jerusalem the measuring rod of Samaria, and the weight of the house of Ahab; and I will pour out Jerusalem as one pours out bowls, and will overturn her. 14. And I will leave some of mine inheritance, and will deliver them into the hand of their enemies, and they shall be a spoil and a prey to all their enemies, 15. Because they have done evil in my sight, and have provoked me to anger from the day that their fathers came forth out of Egypt unto this day. 16. Manasseh also shed much innocent blood, until Jerusalem was filled here and there, without sin, to make Judah sin, that they might do evil in the sight of the LORD. 17. And the rest of the acts of Manasseh, and all that he did, and his sin which he committed, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah, 18. And Manasseh slept with his fathers, and was buried in the garden of his house, which is in the garden of Uzzah. And Amon his son reigned in his stead. 19. Amon was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Mesulemeth, daughter of Haruz of Jatba. 20. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as Manasseh his father had done, 21. And he walked in all the way which his father walked, and served the idols which his father served, and worshipped them. 22. And forsook the LORD God of his fathers, and walked not in the way of the LORD. 23. And his servants made a league against Amon, and slew the king in his house. 24. And the people of the land smote all them that had made the covenant against Amon the king. And the people of the land made Josiah his son king in his stead. 25. And the rest of the acts of Amon, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 26. And they buried him in his sepulchre in the garden of Uzzah. And Josiah his son reigned in his stead. (2 Kings) Chapter 22 It is under Josiah that the Book of the Law is found. 1. Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jedida, a daughter of Adaiah of Bazkath. 2. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand, nor to the left. 3. And in the eighteenth year of king Josiah the king sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah, the son of Meshullam, the scribe, into the house of the LORD, saying: 4. Go up to Hilkiah the high priest, and give them the money that is brought into the house of the LORD, which the keepers of the door have gathered of the people, 5. To give to the workmen that are hired in the house of the LORD, and to give to the workmen of the house of the LORD, to repair that which is broken down in the house, 6. To the carpenters, and builders, and masons, and to buy timber and hewn stone, to repair the house; 7. But that no account be taken of them of the money that is put under their hand, but that they deal it in faith. 8. And Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, that he might read it. 9. And Shaphan the scribe brought it unto the king, and told him again, saying, Thy servants have gathered together the money that was found in the house, and have given it to the workmen that are hired in the house of the LORD. 10. And Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest gave me a book. And Shaphan read it before the king. 11. And when the king heard the words of the book of the law, he rent his clothes. 12. And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the king's servant, saying: 13. Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers hearkened not unto the words of this book, to do according to all that is written therein. 14. And Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asaiah, went unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harham, the keeper of the garments; and she dwelt at Jerusalem in the other part: and they spake unto her. 15. And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Say unto the man that sent you unto me: 16. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, all the words of the law which the king of Judah hath read, 17. Because they have forsaken me, and burned incense unto other gods, and provoked me to anger with all the works of their hands. Therefore shall my wrath be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched. 18. But unto the king of Judah, which sent you to enquire of the LORD, thus shall ye say, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel: 19. Because thine heart was moved at the words which thou hast heard, and hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place and the inhabitants thereof, that they should be a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me, I also have heard it, saith the LORD. 20. Therefore will I gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil that I will bring upon this place. And they told the king again. (2 Kings) Chapter 23 Josiah purifies the service. Government of the kings Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim. 1. And the king sent, and there were gathered unto him all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. 2. And the king went up into the house of the LORD, and all the men of Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem with him, and the priests, and the prophets, and all the people, both small and great: and they read in their ears all the words of the book of the covenant that was found in the house of the LORD. 3. And the king stood upon a pillar, and made a covenant before the LORD, that they should walk after the LORD, and keep his commandments, and his testimonies, and his statutes, with all their heart, and with all their soul, to establish the words of this covenant, which were written in this book. And all the people entered into the covenant. 4. And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the priests of the second order, and the keepers of the threshold, that they should take out of the temple of the LORD all the vessels that were made for Baal, and for the grove, and for all the host of heaven. They burned them outside Jerusalem in the Valley of Kidron, and their dust was carried to Bethel. 5. And he put away the camarim which the kings of Judah had ordained to burn incense in the high places of the cities of Judah, and round about Jerusalem, and the incense of Baal, and of the sun, and of the moon, and of the planets, and of all the host of heaven. 6. And he brought the grove out of the house of the LORD from before Jerusalem unto the brook Kidron, and burned it in the brook Kidron, and made it dust, and cast the dust upon the graves of the common people. 7. And he brake down the houses of the fornicators that were by the house of the LORD, wherein the women wrought houses for the grove. 8. And he sent for all the priests of the cities of Judah, and defiled the high places where the priests burnt incense, from Geba even unto Beer-sheba; and brake down the high places that were in the gates of the gate of Joshua the governor of the city, which was on the left hand when they prayed at the gate of the city. 9. But the priests of the high places had never sacrificed upon the altar of the LORD in Jerusalem, but did eat unleavened bread among their brethren. 10. He defiled also the Thopheth in the valley of the children of Hinnom, that no man should let his son or his daughter pass through the fire unto Molech. 11. And he took away the horses which the kings of Judah had set for the sun in the entry of the house of the LORD by the chamber. Nethan-melech the chamberlain, which was in Parvarim: and he burnt the chariots of the sun with fire. 12. And the altars that were upon the housetop in the hall of Ahaz, which the kings of Judah had made, and the altars that Manasseh had made in the two courts of the LORD'S house, the king brake down; and he ran from thence, and cast the dust thereof into the brook Kidron. 13. And the high places that were before Jerusalem, which were on the right hand of mount Mashith, which Solomon king of Israel had built, Asthoreth the abomination of Zidon, and Kamos the abomination of Moab, and Milcom the abomination of the children of Ammon, did the king defile. 14. And he brake the pillars, and cut off the sharks, and filled their place with the bones of men. 15. And the altar that was at Bethel, the high place which Jeroboam the son of Nebat made, who made Israel to sin, he brake down the same altar, and the high place; and burned the high place, and made it dust, and burned the grove. 16. And Josiah turned, and saw the graves that were in the mount, and sent, and took the bones out of the graves, and burned them upon the altar, and polluted it, according to the word of the LORD, which the man of God had proclaimed, who proclaimed these things. 17. And he said, What is this sepulchre that I see? And the men of the city said unto him, It is the sepulchre of the man of God, which came from Judah, and proclaimed these things that thou hast done against the altar of Bethel. 18. And he said, Let him lie; let no man move his bones. So his bones were saved with the bones of the prophet that came from Samaria. 19. And he put away all the houses of the high places that were in the cities of Samaria, which the kings of Israel had made to provoke to anger: and he did unto them all things, as he did unto Bethel. 20. And he sacrificed all the priests of the high places that were there upon the altars, and burnt men's bones upon them. And he returned to Jerusalem. 21. And the king commanded the people, saying, Keep the passover unto the LORD your God, as it is written in the book of this covenant. 22. For there was no passover so kept as this, from the time of the judges that judged Israel, and in all the days of the kings of Israel, and of the kings of Judah, 23. But in the eighteenth year of king Josiah this passover was kept unto the LORD in Jerusalem. 24. And Josiah purged out all the diviners, and the interpreters of signs, and the graven images, and the idols, and all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah, and in Jerusalem, that he might establish the words of the law that were written in the book which Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the LORD. 25. There was no king like him before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his strength, according to all the law of Moses: and after him his like arose not. 26. But the LORD turned not back from the fierceness of his great wrath, because he was wroth with Judah for all the provocations which Manasseh had provoked him to. 27. And the LORD said: I will also put Judah away out of my sight, as I have put Israel away; and I will cast away this city which I had chosen, even Jerusalem, and the house of it, of which I said: My name shall be there. 28. And the rest of the acts of Josiah, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 29. In his days Pharaoh-necho king of Egypt went up against the king of Assyria unto the river Phrath. And king Josiah went out to meet him, and died at Megiddo, when he had seen him. 30. And his servants carried him dead from Megiddo, and brought him to Jerusalem, and buried him in his sepulchre. And the people of the land took Jehoahaz the son of Josiah, and anointed him, and made him king in his father's stead. 31. Jehoahaz was twenty and three years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Hamutal, daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah. 32. And did evil in the sight of the LORD, as his fathers had done. 33. And Pharaoh-necho caught him at Riblath in the land of Hemath, that he should not reign in Jerusalem: and he laid up an assessment upon the land, an hundred talents of silver, and a talent of gold. 34. And Pharaoh-necho made Eliakim the son of Josiah king instead of Josiah his father, and changed his name to Jehoiakim. But Jehoahaz he took, and brought him into Egypt; and there he died. 35. And Jehoiakim gave the silver and the gold unto Pharaoh: but he appraised the land to give the silver according to Pharaoh's commandment; and he appraised every man according to his ability of the silver and the gold of the people of the land, to give to Pharaoh's necho. 36. Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Zebudah, daughter of Pedaiah of Ruma. 37. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his fathers had done. (2 Kings) Chapter 24 Of three kings in Judah: Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zidekiah. 1. In his days Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up; and Jehoiakim was subject unto him three years. And he turned and departed from him. 2. And the LORD sent upon him soldiers out of Chaldea, and out of Syria, and out of Moab, and out of the children of Ammon, and sent them into Judah to destroy him, according to the word of the LORD which he spake by his servants the prophets. 3. And it came to pass unto Judah, according to the word of the LORD, that he put them away out of his sight, because of the sin of Manasseh, which he had done; 4. Even because of the innocent blood which he shed, and made Jerusalem full of innocent blood, the LORD would not forgive. 5. And the rest of the acts of Jehoiakim, and all that he did, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah. 6. And Jehoiakim slept with his fathers: and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead. 7. And the king of Egypt departed no more out of his land: for the king of Babylon had taken from him all that was the king's in Egypt, from the river of Egypt even unto the river Phrath. 8. Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Nehuztha, daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem. 9. And did evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father had done. 10. At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon went up to Jerusalem, and came unto the city with a stronghold. 11. And when Nebuchadnezzar came to the city, and his servants, he besieged it. 12. And Jehoiachin king of Judah went out to the king of Babylon with his mother, and with his servants, and with his princes, and with his officers: and the king of Babylon received him in the eighth year of his reign. 13. And he took out from thence all the treasures of the house of the LORD, and of the king's house, and brake in pieces all the vessels of gold which Solomon king of Israel had made in the temple of the LORD, as the LORD had said; 14. And he carried away all Jerusalem, and all the princes, and all the mighty men, and ten thousand captives, and all the carpenters, and all the smiths: and he left none but a few of the people of the land. 15. And he carried away Jehoiachin to Babylon, the king's mother, and the king's wives, and his chamberlains; and he carried away the mighty men of the land captives from Jerusalem to Babylon, 16. And the best of the men, seven thousand; and the carpenters, and the smiths, a thousand, all mighty men of war: and the king of Babylon brought them to Babylon. 17. And the king of Babylon made Mathaniah his cousin king in his stead, and changed his name to Zidekiah. 18. Zedekiah was twenty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Hamital, a daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah. 19. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as Jehoiakim had done. 20. For so it came to pass with Jerusalem and Judah out of the wrath of the LORD, that he cast them out of his sight. And Zedekiah was turned aside from the king of Babylon. (2 Kings) Chapter 25 From the destruction of the city of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity. 1. And it came to pass in the ninth year of his reign, in the tenth day of the tenth month, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came against Jerusalem with all his power; and they encamped against her, and built a ruin round about her. 2. So the city was besieged until the eleventh year of Zidekiah the king. 3. And in the ninth month there was a great famine in the city, so that the people of the land had nothing to eat. 4. And they entered into the city, and all the men of war fled by night by the way of the gate between the two walls, which goeth unto the king's garden. And the Chaldeans were round about the city. And he fled by the way of the plain. 5. But the power of the Chaldeans pursued after the king, and took him in the field of Jericho: and all the men of war that were with him were scattered from him. 6. And they took the king, and brought him up to the king of Babylon to Riblath; and they pronounced judgment upon him. 7. And they slew the children of Zedekiah before his eyes, and blinded Zedekiah's eyes, and bound him with chains, and brought him to Babylon. 8. On the seventh day of the fifth month, which is the nineteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, came Nebuzar-adan the chamberlain, servant to the king of Babylon, unto Jerusalem. 9. And burnt the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem, and all the great houses, with fire. 10. And all the power of the Chaldeans, which was with the captain of the court, brake down the walls about Jerusalem. 11. And the rest of the people that were left in the city, which fell to the king of Babylon, and the rest of the rabble, did Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard carry away. 12. And of the least in the land let the courtier have husbandmen and husbandwomen. 13. And the pillars of brass that were in the house of the LORD, and the bases, and the brasen sea that was in the house of the LORD, the Chaldeans brake, and carried the brass to Babylon. 14. And the pots, and the shovels, and the knives, and the spoons, and all the vessels of brass, wherewith they ministered, took they away. 15. And the chamberlain took the pots, and the basons, and all that was gold and silver, 16. Two pillars, and a sea, and the chairs which Solomon had made for the house of the LORD. The brass of all these vessels was not to be weighed. 17. There was a pillar eighteen cubits high, and the top thereof was also of brass, and three cubits high; and the hoops and the pomegranates that were upon the top thereof were all of brass: in like manner was the other pillar with the hoops. 18. And the captain of the guard took Seraiah the priest of the first order, and Zephaniah the priest of the second order, and three doorkeepers. 19. And a chamberlain of the city, which was set over the men of war, and five men that were always before the king, which were found in the city, and Shopher the captain of the host, which taught the people war in the land, and threescore men of the people of the country, which were found in the city: 20. And Nebuzar-adan the chamberlain took them, and brought them unto the king of Babylon to Riblath. 21. And the king of Babylon smote them dead at Riblath in the land of Hemath. So Judah was carried away out of his land. 22. But over the rest of the people of the land of Judah, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon delivered up, he set Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan. 23. And it came to pass, when all the people of war, captains, and men, heard that the king of Babylon had set Gedaliah, that they came to Gedaliah to Mizpah, even Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and Seraiah the son of Thanhumeth the Netophathite, and Jaeshaniah the son of Maechathi, and their men. 24. And Gedaliah sware unto them, and to their men, and said unto them: Fear not to be subject unto the Chaldeans: abide in the land, and be subject unto the king of Babylon; and it shall be well with you. 25. And it came to pass in the seventh month, that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah the son of Elishama, of the royal family, and ten men with him, slew Gedaliah, and the Jews and the Chaldeans that were with him at Mizpah. 26. And all the people arose, both small and great, and the captains of the host, and came into Egypt: for they were afraid of the Chaldeans. 27. And it came to pass in the thirty and seventh year after that Jehoiachin king of Judah was carried away, in the twenty and seventh day of the twelfth month, that Evil-merodach king of Babylon, in the first year of his reign, brought forth the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah out of the dungeon. 28. And he spake kindly unto him, and set his throne over the throne of the kings that were with him in Babylon; 29. And he changed the garments of his prison: and he did eat every way before him all the days of his life; 30. And he appointed him his portion, which was given him of the king every day all the days of his life. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first book of the Chronicle (1 Chronicles) ^ Chapter 1 Genealogical register of the patriarchs except Jacob. 1. Adam, Seth, Enos, 2. Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jared, 3. Enoch, Methusalah, Lamech, 4. Noah, Shem, Ham, Japheth. 5. the children of Japheth are these: Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Thubal, Mesech, Thiras. 6. But the children of Gomer are: Askenas, Riphath, Thogarma. 7. the children of Javan are: Elisha, Tharsisa, Chitim, Dodanim. 8. the children of Ham are: Chus, Mizraim, Put, Canaan. 9. But the children of Chu are: Seba, Hevila, Sabtha, Ragema, Sabthecha. And the sons of Ragema are: Sheba and Dedan. 10. And Chus begat Nimrod, who began to be mighty in the earth. 11. Mizraim begat Ludim, Anamim, Lehabim, Naphthuhim, 12. pathrusim, kasluhim (from which are descended the philistim), and kaphthorim. 13. And Canaan begat Zidon his first son, and Heth, 14. Jebusi, Amori, Girgosi, 15. Hevi, Arki, Sini, 16. Arwadi, Zemari and Hemathi. 17. And the children of Shem were these: Elam, Asshur, Arphachad, Lud, Aram, Uz, Hul, Gether and Masech. 18. And Arphachad begat Salah; and Salah begat Eber. 19. And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg, because in his days the land was divided: and the name of his brother was Jaktan. 20. And Jaktan begat Almodad, and Saleph, and Hazarmaveth, and Jarah, 21. Hadoram, Usal, Dikla, 22. Ebal, Abimael, Sheba, 23. Ophir, Hevila and Jobab. These are all the children of Jaktan. 24. Sem, Arphachsad, Salah, 25. Boar, Peleg, Regu, 26. Serug, Nahor, Tharah, 27. Abram, that is Abraham. 28. And the sons of Abraham are: Isaac and Ishmael. 29. This is their generation: the firstborn of Ishmael, Nebajoth, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, 30. misma, duma, masa, hadad, theme, 31. Jethur, Naphi, Kedma. These are the children of Ishmael. 32. And the sons of Keturah the concubine of Abraham, which bare Shimran, and Jaksan, and Medan, and Midian, and Jezbak, and Shuah. But the children of Jaksan are: Sheba and Dedan. 33. And the children of Midian are: Ephah, Epher, Enoch, Abida, Eldaa. These are all the children of Keturah. 34. And Abraham begat Isaac. And the children of Isaac are: Esau and Israel. 35. The sons of Esau: Eliphaz, Reguel, Jeus, Jaelam, Korah. 36. The children of Eliphaz are: Theman, Omar, Zephi, Gaetham, Kenaz, Thimnah, Amalek. 37. The children of Reguel are: Nahath, Serah, Samma and Misa. 38. the children of Seir are: Lothan, Sobal, Zibeon, Ana, Dison, Ezer, Disan. 39. The children of Lothan are: Hori, Homam; and Thimna was a sister of Lothan. 40. the children of Sobal are: Alian, Manahath, Ebal, Sephi, Onam. The children of Zibeon are: Aja and Ana. 41. the children of Anas: Dison. The children of Dison are: Hamran, Esban, Jethran, Cheran. 42. The children of Ezer are: Bilhan, Saewan, Jaekan. The children of Disan are: Uz and Aran. 43. These are the kings that reigned in the land of Edom, before there reigned a king among the children of Israel, Bela the son of Beor: and the name of his city was Dinhabah. 44. And when Bela was dead, Jobab the son of Zerah, of Bazrah, reigned in his stead. 45. And when Jobab was dead, Husham of the Themanites reigned in his stead. 46. And when Husham was dead, Hadad the son of Bedad reigned in his stead, who smote the Midianites in the field of Moab: and the name of his city was Avith. 47. And when Hadad was dead, Samla of Masrek reigned in his stead. 48. And when Samla was dead, Saul of Rehoboth by the river reigned in his stead. 49. And when Saul was dead, Baalhanan the son of Achbor reigned in his stead. 50. And when Baalhanan was dead, Hadad reigned in his stead; and the name of his city was Pagi; and his wife's name was Mehetabeel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mesahab. 51. And when Hadad was dead, there were princes in Edom; Thimnah the prince, Alwa the prince, Jetheth the prince, 52. Prince Ahalibama, Prince Ela, Prince Pinon, 53. Prince Kenas, Prince Theman, Prince Mibzar, 54. Prince Magdiel, prince Iram. These are the princes of Edom. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 2 Sons of Jacob and Judas. 1. These are the children of Israel; Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, 2. Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, Asher. 3. the children of Judah are: Ger, Onan, Sela. These three were born to him of the Canaanitish woman, the daughter of Shua. But Ger, the first son of Judah, was evil in the sight of the LORD; therefore he slew him. 4. And Tamar his string bare him Pharez and Zerah: and all the sons of Judah were five. 5. the children of Perez are: Hezron and Hamul. 6. but the children of Serah are: Simri, Ethan; Heman, Chalcol, Dara. Of all these there are five. 7. The children of Carmi are Achan, which deceived Israel, because he trespassed against the exile. 8. the children of Ethan are Azariah. 9. And the sons of Hezron that were born unto him were: Jerahmeel, Ram, Chalubai. 10. And Ram bare witness unto Amminadab. And Amminadab bare witness unto Naheshon the prince of the children of Judah. 11. Nahesson begat Salma. Salma bore witness to Boaz. 12. Boaz begat Obed. Obed begat Jesse. 13. And Jesse begat Eliab his first son, and Abinadab his second, and Simmer his third, 14. Nethaneel fourth, Raddai fifth, 15. Ozem the sixth, David the seventh. 16. And their sisters were: Zeruiah and Abigail. The children of Zeruiah are: Abishai, Joab, Asahel, the three. 17. And Abigail bare Amasa. And the father of Amasa was Jether the Ishmaelite. 18. And Caleb the son of Hezron begat with Asubah his wife, and Jerigoth: and these are their children, Jezer, and Shobab, and Ardon. 19. And when Asubah was dead, Caleb took Ephrath, and she bare him Hur. 20. Hur gave birth to Uri. Uri gave birth to Bezaleel. 21. And afterward Hezron slept with the daughter of Machir the father of Gilead: and he took her when he was threescore years old, and she bare him Segub. 22. And Segub begat Jair, which had twenty and three cities in the land of Gilead. 23. And he got out of the same Geshur, and Aram, the villages of Jair, and Kenath with her daughters, threescore cities. These are all the children of Machir the father of Gilead. 24. And it came to pass after the death of Hezron in Caleb Ephrathah, that Hezron left Abijah his wife, which bare him Ashur the father of Thekoah. 25. And Jerahmeel the first son of Hezron had children; the first Ram, and Bunah, and Oren, and Ozem, and Ahijah. 26. And Jerahmeel had another wife, whose name was Atara; she was the mother of Onam. 27. And the sons of Ram the firstborn of Jerahmeel were: Maaz, Jamin, and Eker. 28. And Onam had children, Samai and Jada. But the children of Samai are: Nadab and Abishur. 29. And the name of Abishur's wife was Abihail, and she bare him Achban and Molid. 30. And the children of Nadab are: Seled and Appaim; and Seled died without children. 31. The children of Appaim are Jesei. The children of Jesei are Sesan. The children of Sesan are Ahelai. 32. And the sons of Jadah the brother of Samai were: Jether and Jonathan: but Jether died without children. 33. And the children of Jonathan are: Peleth and Sasa. These are the children of Jerahmeel. 34. And Sheshan had not sons, but daughters. And Sesan had an Egyptian servant, whose name was Jarha. 35. And Sheshan gave Jarha his servant his daughter to wife, and she bare him Athai. 36. Athai begat Nathan. Nathan begat Sabad. 37. And Shabad begat Ephlal. Ephlal begat Obed. 38. Obed begat Jehu. Jehu begat Azariah. 39. Azariah begat Halez. Halez begat Eleasa. 40. Eleasa begat Sissemai. Sissemai begat Sallum. 41. Sallum begat Jekamia. Jekamia begat Elisama. 42. The sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel: Meshah his first son, which is the father of Ziph; and the sons of Maresah the father of Hebron. 43. And the children of Hebron are: Korah; Thapuah, Rekem, and Sama. 44. And Sama begat Raham the father of Jarkaam. And Rekem begat Samai. 45. And the name of the son of Samai was Maon: and Maon was the father of Bethzur. 46. And Ephah the concubine of Caleb bare Haran, and Moza, and Gases. And Haran begat Gases. 47. And the sons of Jahdai are: Regem, Jotham, Gesan, Pelet, Ephah, and Saaph. 48. And Maechah the concubine of Caleb bare Seber and Thirhenah; 49. And she bare also Saaph the father of Madmannah, and Sheva the father of Machbenah, and the father of Gibeah. But Achsah was Caleb's daughter. 50. These were the sons of Caleb; Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah; Shobal the father of Kiriathjearim; 51. Salma, the father of Bethlehem; Hareph, the father of Beth-Gader. 22. And Shobal the father of Kiriathjearim had sons, who saw half of Manuhoth. 53. And the friends of Kiriathjearim were the Jethites, and the Puthites, and the Sumathites, and the Mizraites. From these are the Zaregathites and the Esthaolites. 54. The children of Salma are Bethlehem, and the Netophathites, the crown of the house of Joab, and half of the Manahthites of the Zareith. 55. And the friends of the scribes that dwelt in Jabez were the Thireathites, and the Shimeathites, and the Sukhathites. These are the children that came from Hamath the father of Beth-rechab. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 3 Register of the Kings of Judah. 1. These are the sons of David, which were born unto him in Hebron: the first Amnon, by Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second Daniel, by Abigail the Carmelitess; 2. The third Absalom the son of Maechah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur: the fourth Adonijah the son of Haggith; 3. The fifth, Shaphatiah, by Abital; the sixth, Jethream, by his wife Egla. 4. These six were born unto him in Hebron: for there he reigned seven years and six months: but in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years. 5. And these were born unto him at Jerusalem; Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, the four of them, of the daughter of Shua the daughter of Ammiel; 6. In addition Jebehar, Elisama, Eliphalet, 7. Noga, Nepheg, Japia, 8. elisama, eliada, eliphalet, the nine. 9. These are all the children of David, without the children of the concubines. And Tamar was their sister. 10. Solomon's son was Rehoboam; Abiah his son; Asa his son; Jehoshaphat his son; 11. His son was Joram; his son was Ahaziah; his son was Joash; 12. His son was Amaziah; his son was Azariah; his son was Jotham; 13. His son was Ahaz; his son was Hezekiah; his son was Manasseh; 14. His son was Amon; his son was Josiah. 15. And Josiah's sons were, the first Johanan, the second Jehoiakim, the third Zidekiah, the fourth Shallum. 16. And the sons of Jehoiakim were Jechaniah; and his son was Zidekiah. 17. And the sons of Jechaniah, which was taken captive, were: Sealthiel, 18. Malchiram, Phadaiah, Senneazar, Jecamiah, Hosama, Nedabiah. 19. The children of Phadaiah were: Zerubbabel and Shimei. The children of Zerubbabel were: Meshullam, and Hananiah, and Selomith their sister; 20. And Hasuba, Ohel, Berechiah, Hashadiah, Jusab-hesed, the five of them. 21. And the sons of Hananiah were: Platiah, and Jesaiah; whose son was Rephaiah, whose son was Arnan, whose son was Obadiah, whose son was Zechaniah. 22. And the sons of Zechaniah were Shemaiah. And the sons of Shemaiah were: Hattus, Jegeal, Bariah, Neariah, Shaphat, the six. 23. And the sons of Neariah were: Elioenai, Hezekiah, Azrikam, the three. 24. And the sons of Elioenai were: Hodaiah, Eliasib, Plaiah, Akub, Johanan, Delaiah, Anani, the seven. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 4 Descendants of Judah. 1. The children of Judah were: Perez, Hezron, Karmi, Hur and Sobal. 2. And Reaiah the son of Shobal begat Jahath. Jahath begat Ahumai and Lahad. These are the friendships of the Zaregathites. 3. And this is the tribe of the father Etam; Jezreel, and Jezma, and Jedbas: and their sister's name was Hazlelponi; 4. And PnueI the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Husah. These are the sons of Hur the firstborn of Ephrathah the father of Bethlehem. 5. And Ashur the father of Thekoa had two wives, Helleah and Naera. 6. And Naera bare him Ahusam, and Hepher, and Themni, and Ahastari. These are the children of Naera. 7. But the children of Helleah were: Zereth, Jezohar and Ethnan. 8. And Koz begat Anub, and Hazobeba, and the friendship of Aharhel the son of Harum. 9. And Jaebez was more glorious than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jaebez, because she said: I have born him with sorrow. 10. And Jaebez called upon the God of Israel, and said, Wherefore thou wilt bless me, and enlarge my border, and thy hand shall be with me, and wilt deal with evil, that it trouble me not. And God sent, and he asked. 11. And Calub the brother of Shuhah begat Mehir, who is the father of Esthon. 12. And Esthon begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Thehinnah the father of the city of Nahash; these are the men of Rechah. 13. And the sons of Kenah were: Athniel and Seraiah. And the sons of Athniel were Hathath. 14. And Meonothai begat Ophrah. And Seraiah begat Joab the father of the valley of the carpenters: for they were carpenters. 15. And the sons of Caleb the son of Jephunneh were: Jru, Ela, and Naam. And the sons of Elah were Kenaz. 16. And the sons of Jehaleleel were: Ziph, Ziphah, Tirya, and Azareel. 17. And the sons of Ezra were: Jether, Mered, Epher, and Jalon; and Tahar with Miriam, Samai, Jezbah the father of Esthemoa. 18. And Judiah his wife bare Jered the father of Gedor, Heber the father of Shocho, Jekuthiel the father of Sanoah. These are the sons of Bithiah the daughter of Pharaoh, whom Mared took. 19. The sons of the wife of Hodiah the sister of Naham the father of Keilah: Garmi and Esthemoa the Maechathite. 20. And the sons of Simon were: Amnon, Rinnah, and Ben-hanan, Thilon. The children of Jesei were: Soheth, and the Ben-Soheth. 21. And the sons of Selah the son of Judah were: He the father of Lechah, Laedah the father of Maresah, and the friendship of the linen weavers under the house of Azbea; 22. And Jokim, and the men of Coseba, and Joash, and Saraph, which were fathers of the house in Moab, and Jashubi in Lahem; as the old saying is. 23. They were potters, and dwelt under plants and fences with the king in his business: and they came and sojourned there. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 5 Races of Simeon. 24. The sons of Simeon were: Nemuel, Jamin, Jarib, Zerah, Saul; 25. His son was Shallum; his son was Mibsam; his son was Misma. 26. And the sons of Mishma were Hamuel; his son was Zachur; his son was Shimei. 27. And Shimei had sixteen sons and six daughters; and his brethren had not many children: but all their friends multiplied not as the children of Judah. 28. And they dwelt at Beer-sheba, and at Molada, and at Hazar-sual, 29. Bilha, Ezem, Tholad, 30. Bethuel, Harma, Ziklag, 31. Beth-marchaboth, Hazar-susim, Beth-birei, Saaraim. These were their cities, save David the king. 32. And their villages by Etam, Ain, Rimmon, Thochen, Asan, the five cities. 33. And all the villages that were round about these cities, even unto Baal, that is their dwelling, and their families among them. 34. And Mesobab, and Jamlech, and Joshah the son of Amaziah. 35. Joel, Jehu the son of Josibiah; the son of Seraiah, the son of Asiel, 36. Elioenai, Jaekobah, Jezoahiah, Asaiah, Adiel; Ishmeel and Benaiah, 37. And Ziza the son of Siphei, the son of Allon, the son of Jedaiah, the son of Zimri, the son of Shemaiah. 38. These became princes of note in their families of the house of their fathers, and divided themselves according to the multitude. 39. And they went, and came to Gedor, until the east of the valley, to seek pasture for their flocks. 40. And they found fat pasture, and good pasture, and a land far from space, quiet, and rich: for there dwelt before the people of Ham. 41. And they which are now described by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and smote the tents and dwellings that were found there, and utterly destroyed them unto this day, and dwelt in their stead: for there was pasture there for sheep. 42. And of them, of the sons of Simeon, went five hundred men unto mount Seir, with their captains, Platiah, and Neariah, and Rephaiah, and Uzziel, the sons of Jezei, 43. And they smote the remnant that were left of the Amalekites, and dwelt there unto this day. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 6 (otherwise 5th) Of Ruben, Gad and Manasseh. 1. The children of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel; for he was the firstborn, but because he defiled his father's bed, his firstborn was given to the children of Joseph, the son of Israel: and he was not counted for the firstborn; 2. For Judah, which was mighty among his brethren, to him was given the principality before him, and to Joseph the firstborn.) 3. Now these are the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel; Hanoch, and Pallu, and Hezron, and Carmi. 4. And the sons of Joel were Shemaiah; and his son was Gog; and his son was Shimei; 5. His son was Micah; his son was Reaiah; his son was Baal; 6. His son was Beerah, whom Tiglathpilneser king of Assyria carried away captive: and he was a prince among the Reubenites. 7. But his brethren of his families, when they were numbered among their generations, had for heads Jeiel and Zechariah. 8. And Bela the son of Asan, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, dwelt in Aroer, and unto Nebo and Baal-meon; 9. And they dwelt toward the east, until they came to the wilderness by the river Phrath: for their cattle were many in the land of Gilead. 10. And in the days of Saul they made war against the Hagarites, and they fell by their hand, and dwelt in those tents against all the east coast of Gilead. 11. And the children of Gad dwelt against them in the land of Bashan unto Salcah. 12. Joel the chief, and Shapham the other, Jaenai and Shaphat in Bashan. 13. And their brethren of the house of their fathers were: Michael, Meshullam, Sheba, Jorai, Jaekan, Shia, and Eber, the seven. 14. These are the sons of Abihail the son of Huri, the son of Jaroah, the son of Gilead, the son of Michael, the son of Jesai, the son of Jahdo, the son of Bus. 15. And Ahi the son of Abdiel the son of Guni was a captain in the house of their fathers; 16. And they dwelt in Gilead in Bashan, and in her daughters, and in all the suburbs of Saron, unto the end thereof. 17. All these were reckoned in the days of Jotham king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam king of Israel. 18. And the children of Reuben, and the children of Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, which were valiant men, able to bear shields and swords, and to draw bows, and to fight, were forty and four thousand and seven hundred and threescore, that went forth to battle. 19. And when they fought with the Hagarites, Jetur, Naphes, and Nodab helped them. 20. And the Hagarites were given into their hand, and all that was with them. For they cried unto GOD in battle; and he was entreated, because they trusted in him. 21. And they led away their cattle, five thousand camels, two hundred and fifty thousand sheep, two thousand asses, and an hundred thousand men's souls. 22. For there fell many wounded: for the battle was of GOD. And they dwelt in their stead until the time that they were taken captive. 23. And the children of the half tribe of Manasseh dwelt in the land from Bashan unto Baalhermon, and Senir, and mount Hermon: and they were many. 24. And these were the heads of the house of their fathers; Epher, Jesei, Eliel, Azriel, Jeremiah, Hodaviah, Jahdiel; mighty men of valour, and heads of renown in the house of their fathers. 25. And when they had sinned against the God of their fathers, and had whored after the idols of the nations of the land, which God had destroyed before them, then they sinned against the God of their fathers, 26. And the God of Israel raised up the spirit of Phul king of Assyria, and the spirit of Tiglathpilneser king of Assyria, and carried away the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, and brought them unto Halah, and Habor, and Hara, and unto the river Gozan, unto this day. (1 Chronicles) The 7th chapter (otherwise 6th) Number and dwelling of the. Children of Levi and Aaron. 1. The children of Levi were: Gershom, Kahath and Meran. 2. And the sons of Kohath were: Amram, Jezehar, Hebron, and Uzziel. 3. The sons of Amram were: Aaron, Moses, and Miriam. The children of Aaron were: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. 4. Eleazar begat Phinehas. Phinehas begat Abishua. 5. Abisua begat Buki. Buki begat Usi. 6. Uzzi begat Seraiah. Seraiah begat Meraioth. 7. Meraioth begat Amariah. Amariah begat Ahitob. 8. Ahitob begat Zadok. Zadok begat Ahimaaz. 9. Ahimaaz begat Azariah. Azariah bore witness to Johanan. 10. Johanan begat Azariah the priest of the house which Solomon built in Jerusalem. 11. Azariah begat Amariah. Amariah bore witness to Ahitob. 12. Ahitob begat Zadok. Zadok begat Shallum. 13. Shallum begat Hilkiah. Hilkiah begat Azariah. 14. Azariah begat Seraiah. Seraiah begat Jozadak. 15. And Jehozadak was carried away with them, when the LORD carried away captive Judah and Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. 16. Now therefore the sons of Levi are these: Gershom, Kahath, Meran. 17. And these are the names of the sons of Gershom; Libni and Shimei. 18. And the names of the sons of Kohath are Amram, and Jezehar, and Hebron, and Uzziel. 19. The sons of Merari; their names are Maheli and Musi. These are the families of the Levites under their fathers. 20. And the son of Gershom was Libni, and the son of Jahath, and the son of Shima; 21. His son was Joah; his son was Iddo; his son was Zerah; his son was Jeathrai. 22. And Kohath's son was Amminadab; and his son's son was Korah; and his son's son was Assir; 23. His son was Elkanah; his son was Abiassaph; his son was Assir; 24. His son was Tahath; his son was Uriel; his son was Uzziah; his son was Saul. 25. The sons of Elkanah were Amasai and Ahimoth; 26. His son was Elkanah; his son was Elkanah of Zoph; his son was Nahath; 27. His son was Eliab; his son was Jeroham; his son was Elkanah; 28. His son was Samuel; his firstborn was Vasni, and Abijah. 29. Merari's son was Maheli; his son was Libni; his son was Shimei; his son was Uzzah; 30. And his son's son was Shimea; and his son's son was Haggiah; and his son's son was Asaiah. 31. And these are they which David set to sing in the house of the LORD, where the ark rested; 32. And they ministered before the tabernacle of the congregation with singing, until Solomon had built the house of the LORD in Jerusalem: and they continued in their service after their manner. 33. And these are they that tarried, and their children. Of the sons of Kohath was Heman the singer, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel, 34. The son of Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Eliel, the son of Toah, 35. The son of Zuph, the son of Elkanah, the son of Mahath, the son of Amasai, 36. The son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah, 37. The son of Tahath, the son of Assir, the son of Abiasaph, the son of Korah, 38. The son of Jezehar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel. 39. And Assaph his brother stood on his right hand. And Assaph was the son of Berechiah the son of Simea, 40. The son of Michael, the son of Baiseiah, the son of Malchijah, 41. The son of Athni, the son of Zerah, the son of Adaiah, 42. The son of Ethan, the son of Shima, the son of Simei, 43. The son of Jahath, the son of Gershom, the son of Levi. 44. And their brethren the sons of Merari were on the left hand: namely, Ethan the son of Cushi, the son of Abdi, the son of Malluch, 45. The son of Hashabiah, the son of Amaziah, the son of Hilkiah. 46. The son of Amzi, the son of Bani, the son of Samer, 47. The son of Maheli, the son of Mushi, the son of Merari, the son of Levi. 48. And their brethren the Levites were given to do all manner of work in the tabernacle of the house of the LORD. 49. And Aaron and his sons were in charge to burn upon the altar of burnt offering, and upon the altar of incense, and to do all the business in the most holy place, and to make an atonement for Israel, as Moses the servant of GOD commanded. 50. And these are the sons of Aaron; Eleazar his son, Phinehas his son, Abishua his son; 51. His son was Buki; his son was Uzzi; his son was Zerahiah; 52. His son was Meraioth; his son was Amariah; his son was Ahitob; 53. His son's name was Zadok; his son's name was Ahimaaz. 54. And this is their dwelling place, and their habitation within their borders, even the children of Aaron, of the family of the Kohathites: for the lot fell upon them. 55. And they gave them Hebron in the land of Judah, and the suburbs thereof round about. 56. And the field of the city, and the villages thereof, gave they unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh. 57. And they gave unto the children of Aaron the cities of refuge, Hebron, and Libnah, and their suburbs; Jather, and Esthemoa, and their suburbs, 58. Hilen, Debir, 59. Asan and Beth-shemes with their suburbs; 60. And of the tribe of Benjamin, Geba, and Alemeth, and Anathoth, with their suburbs: all the cities of their family were thirteen. 61. And the rest of the sons of Kohath of their family, of the half tribe of Manasseh, were given ten cities by lot. 62. And unto the sons of Gershom of their family, out of the tribe of Issachar, and out of the tribe of Asher, and out of the tribe of Naphtali, and out of the tribe of Manasseh, were thirteen cities in Bashan. 63. And unto the sons of Merari of their family were given by lot out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities. 64. And the children of Israel also gave unto the Levites cities with their suburbs, 65. Namely, by lot, out of the tribe of the children of Judah, and out of the tribe of the children of Simeon, and out of the tribe of the children of Benjamin, the cities which they had appointed by name. 66. But unto the families of the children of Kohath were cities of their border out of the tribe of Ephraim. 67. And they gave unto them, even to the family of the other sons of Kohath, the free cities, Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Gezer. 68. Yakmeam, Beth-horon, 69. ajalon and gath-rimon with their suburbs; 70. And of the half tribe of Manasseh, Aner and Balaam with their suburbs. 71. And to the children of Gershom they gave out of the family of the half tribe of Manasseh, Golan in Bashan, and Ashtaroth with her suburbs. 72. Of the tribe of Issachar: Kedes, Dabrath, 73. Ramoth and Anem with their suburbs. 74. from the tribe of Asher: Masal, Abdon, 75. Hukok and Rehob with their suburbs. 76. of the tribe of Naphtali: Kedesh in Galilee, Hammon, and Kiriathaim with their suburbs. 77. And to the rest of the sons of Merari they gave out of the tribe of Zebulun, Rimmono and Tabor with their suburbs; 78. And on the other side Jordan toward Jericho, toward the sunrising at Jordan, of the tribe of Reuben, Bezer in the wilderness, Jahaz, 79. Kedemoth and Mepaath with their suburbs. 80. from the tribe of Gad: Ramoth in Gilead, Mahanaim, 81. Hesbon and Jaeser with their suburbs; (1 Chronicles) Chapter 8 (otherwise 7th) Genealogical registers of the six remaining tribes of Jacob. 1. The children of Issachar were: Thola, Puah, Jasub and Simron, the four. 2. And the sons of Tola were: Uzzi, and Rephaiah, and Jeriel, and Jahemai, and Jebsam, and Samuel, heads of the house of their fathers of Tola, and mighty men of their seed, in number in the days of David twenty and two thousand and six hundred. 3. The children of Uzzi were Jezraiah. But the children of Jesrajas were: Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isaiah the five, and were all heads. 4. And with them in their generations, in the house of their fathers, were armed hosts to battle thirty and six thousand: for they had many wives and children. 5. And their brethren in all the families of Issachar, mighty men, were eighty and seven thousand, and were all numbered. 6. And the sons of Benjamin were: Bela, Becher, and Jediael, the three. 7. But the children of Bela were: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and In, the five, heads of the house of the fathers, mighty men. And were numbered twenty and two thousand and thirty and four. 8. The sons of Becher were: Shemira, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Amri, Jerimoth, Abiah, Anathoth, and Alameth: all these were the children of Becher. 9. And were numbered in their families after the heads of the house of their fathers, mighty men, twenty thousand and two hundred. 10. And the sons of Jediael were Bilhan. And Bilhan's children were: Jens, Benjamin, Ehud, Knaena, Sethan, Tharsis, and Ahisahar. 11. All these were the sons of Jediael, heads of the fathers, mighty men, seventeen thousand two hundred, that went out to battle. 12. And Shupim and Hupim were the sons of Ir; and Hushim was the son of Aher. 13. And the sons of Naphtali were: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer and Sallum, children of Bilha. 14. And the sons of Manasseh were these: Esriel, whom Aramiah his concubine bare: and he begat Machir the father of Gilead. 15. And Machir gave wives unto Hupim and unto Supim: and his sister's name was Maechah. And his other son's name was Zelaphehad; and Zelaphehad had daughters. 16. And Maechah the wife of Machir bare a son, and called his name Peresh: and his brother's name was Shares: and his sons were Ulam and Rakem. 17. And the son of Ulam was Bedan. These are the sons of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh. 18. And Molecheth his sister bare Ishud, and Abiezer, and Mahela. 19. And Shemida had these children, Ahjan, and Sichern, and Likhi, and Aniam. 20. The sons of Ephraim were these: Suthelah; whose son was Bered; whose son was Tahath; whose son was Eleadah; whose son was Tahath; 21. His son's name was Shabad; his son's name was Shuthelah; his son's name was Ezer and Elead. And the men of Gath, the inhabitants of the land, slew them, because they went down to take their cattle. 22. And Ephraim their father mourned a long time: and his brethren came to comfort him. 23. And he slept with his wife, and she conceived, and bare a son, and called his name Bria: because it was evil in his house. 24. And his daughter Seerah, which built the lower and the upper Bethhoron, and Uzzah Seerah. 25. His son was Rephah and Reseph; his son was Thelah; his son was Thahan; 26. His son was Laedan; his son was Ammihud; his son was Elishama; 27. His son was Nun; his son was Joshua. 28. And their possession and their habitation was Bethel, and their daughters; and toward the east Naeran, and toward the west Gezer, and their daughters; and Shechem, and her daughters, unto Azza, and her daughters. 29. And in the children of Manasseh, Bethshean and her daughters, Taenah and her daughters, Megiddo and her daughters, Dor and her daughters. In these dwelt the children of Joseph the son of Israel. 30. The children of Asher were these: Jemnah, Jezva, Jezwi, Briah, and Zerah their sister. 31. And the sons of Briah were: Heber and Malchiel, which is the father of Birzavith. 32. And Heber begat Japhlet, and Somer, and Hotham, and Sua their sister. 33. The children of Japhelet were: Passover, Bimehal, and Ashvath; these were the children of Japhelet. 34. And the sons of Somer were: Ahi, Rahga, Jehuba and Aram. 35. And the sons of his brother Helem were: Jophah, Jemnah, Seles, and Amal. 36. And the children of Zophah were: Suah, Harnepher, Sual, Beri, Jemra, 37. Bezer, Hod, Sama, Silsa, Jethran and Beera. 38. The children of Jether were: Jephunneh, Phispa, and Ara. 39. And the sons of Ullah were: Arah, Haniel and Riziah. 40. These were all the sons of Asher, heads of the house of their fathers, chosen men of valour, and heads of princes. And they were numbered in the host to the battle, according to their number, twenty and six thousand men. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 9 (otherwise 8th) The house of Benjamin and Saul. 1. And Benjamin begat Bela his first son, and Asbal his second, and Ahrah his third, 2. Noha the fourth, Rapha the fifth. 3. And Bela had children; Addar, and Gera, and Abihud, 4. Abisua, Naeman, Ahoah, 5. Gera, Sephuphan and Huram. 6. These are the sons of Ehud, which were heads of the fathers of the inhabitants of Geba, and went away to Manahath: 7. Namely, Naaman, Ahijah, and Gera, he led them away; and he begat Uzzah and Ahihud. 8. And Saharaim bare witness in the land of Moab (when he had sent them away) of Husim and Baerah his wives. 9. And he testified of Hodes his wife, Jobab, Zibiah, Mesa, Malcham, 10: Jeuz, Zechiah, and Mirma. These are his children, heads of the fathers. 11. And from Husim he begat Abitob and Elpaal. 12. And the sons of Elpaal were: Eber, Miseam and Samed. And he built Ono, and Lod, and their daughters. 13. And Briah and Sama were heads of the fathers among the people of Aijalon; they drove out those of Gath. 14. But Ahjo, Sasak, Jeremoth, 15. Zebadiah, Arad, Ader, 16. Michael, Jespa, and Joha; which are the children of Bria. 17. Zebadiah, Meshullam, Hezeki, Heber, 18. Jesmerai, Jeslia, Jobab; these are the children of Elpaal. 19. Jakim, Sichri, Sabdi, 20. Elioenai, Zilthai, Eliel, 21. Adaiah, and Braiah, and Zimrath; these are the sons of Shimei. 22. Jespan, Eber, Eliel, 23. Abdon, Sichri, Hanan, 24. Hananiah, Elam, Anthothiah, 25. Jephdeiah and Pnuel; these are the sons of Shazak. 26. Samzerai, Sehariah, Athaliah; 27. Jaeresiah, and Elijah, and Zichri: they are the sons of Jeroham. 28. These are the heads of the fathers of their families, which dwelt at Jerusalem. 29. And in Gibeon dwelt the father of Gibeon; and his wife's name was Maechah. 30. And his first son was Abdon, Zur, Kish, Baal, Nadab, 31. Gedor, Ahjo and Secher. 32. And Mikloth begat Shimea; and they dwelt with them against their brethren at Jerusalem. 33. Ner begat Kish. Kish begat Saul. Saul begat Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Esbaal. 34. And the son of Jonathan was Meribaal. Meribaal begat Micah. 35. And the sons of Micah were: Pithon, Melech, Thaerea and Ahaz. 36. And Ahaz begat Joaddah. And Joadda begat Alemeth, and Asmaveth, and Zimri. Simri begat Moza. 37. Moza begat Binea; his son's son was Rapha; his son's son was Eleasa; his son's son was Azel. 38. And Azel had six sons, whose names were Esrikam, and Bochru, and Ishmael, and Sheariah, and Obadiah, and Hanan. They were all the sons of Azel. 39. And the sons of Ezek his brother were: Ulam his first son, Jeus the other, Eliphelet the third. 40. And the sons of Ulam were mighty men, and skilled with bows: and they had many sons, and sons of sons, an hundred and fifty. All these are of the children of Benjamin. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 10 (otherwise 9th) Inhabitants of Jerusalem and Gibeon. 1. And all Israel were reckoned, and, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, and are now carried away to Babylon for their iniquity, 2. Who dwelt before in their goods and cities, even Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, and the Nethinims. 3. And there dwelt at Jerusalem some of the children of Judah, and some of the children of Benjamin, and some of the children of Ephraim and Manasseh. 4. Namely, of the sons of Perez the son of Judah was Uthai the son of Ammihud, the son of Amri, the son of Imri, the son of Bani. 5. And of Shiloni, Asaiah the first son, and his other sons. 6. Of the children of Zerah: Jeguel and his brethren, six hundred and ninety. 7. Of the sons of Benjamin; Shallu the son of Meshullam, the son of Hodaviah, the son of Haznua; 8. And Jebneiah the son of Jeroham; and Elah the son of Uzzi the son of Michri; and Meshullam the son of Shephatiah the son of Reguel the son of Jebneiah. 9. And their brethren in their families, nine hundred and fifty and six. All these men were heads of the fathers in the house of their fathers. 10. And of the priests, Jedaiah, and Jehoiarib, and Jachin; 11. And Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, a prince in the house of GOD; 12. And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchiah; and Maesai the son of Adiel, the son of Jachzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer. 13. And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand seven hundred and threescore men of valour in the work of the service of the house of God. 14. And of the Levites, of the sons of Merari; Shemaiah the son of Hashub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah. 15. And Bakbakar the carpenter, and Galal, and Mathaniah the son of Micah, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph. 16. And Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun; and Berechiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, which dwelt in the villages of the Netophathites. 17. And the porters were: Shallum, Akub, Talmon, Ahiman with their brothers, and Shallum the chief. 18. For hitherto at the king's gate toward the going up had waited the children of Levi with camps. 19. And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Abiassaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren of his father's house, the Korhites, in the business of the tabernacle, waited at the threshold of the tabernacle; and their fathers in the camp of the LORD waited for the entrance. 20. And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them, because the LORD had been with him before. 21. And Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was keeper of the gate of the tabernacle of the congregation. 22. All these were chosen to be keepers of the threshold, two hundred and twelve, which were numbered in their villages. And David and Samuel the seer established them by their faith, 23. That they and their children should keep the house of the LORD, even the house of the tabernacle, to keep it. 24. And there were such porters set against the four winds; against the east, and against the west, and against the north, and against the south. 25. And their brethren were in their villages, to come in every seventh day, to be with them always. 26. For the Levites were trusted unto these four chief porters, and they were over the chests and treasures of the house of God. 27. And they tarried for the night round about the house of God: for it behoved them that they should rise up every morning. 28. And some of them were over the instruments of the ministry: for they numbered them out and in. 29. And some of them were appointed over the vessels, and over all the holy vessels, over fine flour, and over wine, and over oil, and over incense, and over burnt incense. 30. But the children of the priests made some of the incense. 31. And Mathithiah of the Levites, the first son of Shallum the Korhite, was trusted with the pans. 32. And of the Kohathites, their brethren, the shewbread was to be prepared, and they prepared it all the sabbath day. 33. These are the singers, the chief of the fathers of the Levites, set apart over the castes: for they were in the business day and night. 34. These are the heads of the fathers of the Levites in their families. These dwelt at Jerusalem. 35. And Jeiel the father of Gibeon dwelt at Gibeon; and his wife's name was Maechah, 36. And his first son Abdon, Zur, Kis, Baal, Ner, Nadab, 37. Gedor, Ahjo, Zechariah, Mikloth. 38. And Mikloth begat Simeam; and they also dwelt about their brethren at Jerusalem among their own. 39. And Ner bare witness unto Kish. And Kish begat Saul. And Saul begat Jonathan, and Malchishua, and Abinadab, and Esbaal. 40. And the son of Jonathan was Meribaal. And Meribaal begat Micah. 41. And the sons of Micah were: Pithon, Melech and Thaherea. 42. Ahaz begat Jaera. Jaera begat Alemeth, Asmaveth, and Simri. Simri begat Moza. 43. Moza begat Binea; his son's son was Raphaiah; his son's son was Eleasa; his son's son was Azel. 44. And Azel had six sons, whose names were: Azrikam, Bochru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, Hanan: these are the sons of Azel. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 11 (otherwise 10th) Saul's downfall in battle against the Philistines. 1. And the Philistines fought against Israel: and they of Israel fled from before the Philistines: and the slain fell upon the mount. 2. But the Philistines went after Saul and his sons after them, and smote Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, Saul's sons. 3. And the battle was sore against Saul; and the archers came upon him, and he was wounded of the archers. 4. And Saul said unto his armourbearer, Put forth thy sword, and thrust me therewith, lest these uncircumcised come and deal shamefully with me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. So Saul took his sword and fell on it. 5. And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell on the sword, and died. 6. So Saul died, and his three sons, and all his house at the same time. 7. And when the men of Israel that were in the valley saw that they fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they forsook their cities, and fled: and the Philistines came and dwelt within. 8. And the next morning the Philistines came to strip the slain, and found Saul and his sons lying in mount Gilboa; 9. And they stripped him, and put on his head, and on his weapons, and sent him abroad into the land of the Philistines, and proclaimed it before their idols, and before the people; 10. And they put his weapons in the house of their god, and they pinned his skull to the house of Dagon. 11. And all they that were at Jabesh in Gilead heard all that the Philistines had done to Saul, 12. And they arose, all the valiant men, and took the body of Saul and of his sons, and brought them to Jabesh, and buried their bones under the oak of Jabesh, and fasted seven days. 13. So Saul died in his iniquity, which he had done against the LORD, in the word of the LORD, which he kept not, even that he asked the soothsayer 14. And asked not the LORD: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom to David the son of Jesse. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 12 (otherwise 11th) Anointing of David as king. His dwelling and contending heroes. 1. And all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, and said, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. 2. Even in the days of old, when Saul was king, thou leddest out and broughtest in Israel. Thus hath the LORD thy God spoken unto thee: Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over my people Israel. 3. And all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron. And David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD. And they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD by Samuel. 4. And David went, and all Israel, unto Jerusalem, which is Jebus: for the Jebusites dwelt in the land. 5. And the men of Jebus said unto David, Thou shalt not come in. And David took the castle of Zion, that is, David's city. 6. And David said, He that smiteth the Jebusites first shall be chief and captain. And Joab the son of Zeruiah was the first that smote them, and was captain over them. 7. And David dwelt in the castle: therefore it is called the city of David. 8. And he built the city round about, from Millo even round about. And Joab let the remnant live in the city. 9. And David continued and increased; and the LORD of hosts was with him. 10. These are the chief of the mighty men of David, which kept themselves honestly with him in his kingdom among all Israel, to make him king according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel. 11. And this is the number of the mighty men of David: Jashabeam the son of Hachmoni, the chiefest of thirty; he lifted up his spear, and smote three hundred at one time. 12. After him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite: and he was of the three valiant men. 13. This was with David, when they spake a scorn, and the Philistines were gathered there to battle. And there was a piece of ground full of barley: and the people fled from before the Philistines. 14. And they stood in the midst of the piece, and delivered it, and smote the Philistines. And the LORD gave great salvation. 15. And the three of the thirty captains went down to the rock to David, unto the cave of Adullam. But the camp of the Philistines was in the bottom of Rephaim. 16. And David was in the castle, and the Philistine people were at Bethlehem at that time. 17. And David longed, and said, Who will give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem under the gate? 18. And the three of them went into the camp of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, which was under the gate, and bare it, and brought it unto David. And he would not drink it, but poured it out unto the LORD. 19. And he said, Let this thing be far from me, that I should do this thing, and drink the blood of these men in the course of their life: for they brought it with the course of their life. Therefore he would not drink it. So the three heroes did. 20. And Abishai the brother of Joab was chief among three: and he took up his spear, and slew three hundred. And he was famous among three, 21. And he the third, more glorious than the two, and was chief of them: but he came not nigh unto the three. 22. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of Ishail, of great works, of Kabzeel. He smote two lions of Moab; and went down, and smote a lion in the midst of the well in the snowy season. 23. He smote also an Egyptian man, which was five cubits high, and had a spear in his hand like a weaver's beam. But he went down to him with a stick, and took the spear out of his hand, and slew him with his own spear. 24. This did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and was famous among three mighty men; 25. And he was the most glorious of the thirty: but he came not nigh unto the three. But David made him a secret counsellor. 26. The contending heroes are these: Asahel the brother of Joab. Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem. 27. Samoth the Harorite. Helez the Pelonite. 28. Ira the son of Eke the Thekite. Abieser the Anthothite. 29. Sibechai the Hushathite. Ilai the Ahohite. 30. Maherai the Netophathite. Heled the son of Baenah the Netophathite. 31. Ithai the son of Ribai, of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin. Benaiah the Pirgathonite. 32. Hurai, of the streams of Gaash. Abiel, the Arbathite. 33. Asmaveth the Baherumite. Eliahba the Saalbonite. 34. The children of Hazem the Gisonite. Jonathan the son of Sag, the Hararite. 35. Ahiam the son of Zechar the Hararite. Eliphal the son of Urs. 36. Hepher the Macherathite. Ahijah the Pelonite. 37. Hezro the Carmelite. Naerai the son of Azbai. 38. Joel the brother of Nathan. Mibehar the son of Hagri. 39. Zelek the Ammonite. Naherai the Berothite, armorbearer of Joab the son of Zeruiah. 40. Ira the Jethrite. Gareb the Jethrite. 41. Uriah the Hittite. Sabad the son of Ahelai. 42. And Adina the son of Sisha the Reubenite, a captain of the Reubenites, and thirty were under him. 43. Hanan the son of Maechah. Jehoshaphat the Mathonite. 44. Uzziah the Astrathite. Sama and Jaiel, the sons of Hotham the Aroerite. 45. Jediael the son of Zimri. Joha his brother the Thizite. 46. Eliel the Mahevite. Jeribai and Josaviah the sons of Elnaam. Jethma the Moabite. 47. Eliel, Obed, Jaesiel of Mezobaya. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 13 (otherwise 12th) David's succor to contentious men. 1. These also came to David to Ziklag, when he was yet shut up from Saul the son of Kish. And they also were among the mighty men that helped the battle. 2. And were skillful with bows in both hands, upon stones, and upon arrows, and upon bows. Of the brethren of Saul, which were of Benjamin: 3. The chief of them Ahiezer, and Joash, the sons of Samaa the Gibeathite; Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; Barachah and Jehu the Anthothite. 4. Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, mighty among thirty, and above thirty. Jeremiah, Jahesiel, Johanan, Jehozabad the Gederathite. 5. Eleusai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Samariah, Shaphatiah, the Harophite. 6. Elkanah, Isaiah, Azareel, Joeser, Jazabeam, the Korhites. 7. Joelah and Zabadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor. 8. And of the Gadites there came out to David to the fortress of the wilderness strong men of valour, and men of war, bearing shield and spear, and their faces as the lions, and swift as the roes of the mountains: 9. The first Ezer, the second Obadiah, the third Eliab, 10: the fourth Masmanna, the fifth Jeremiah, 11. the sixth Athai, the seventh Eliel, 12. The eighth Johanan, the ninth Elsabad, 13. The tenth Jeremiah, the eleventh Machbanai. 14. These were of the children of Gad, heads of the host; the least over an hundred, and the greatest over a thousand. 15. These are they which passed over Jordan in the first month, when it was full on both sides, and all the bottoms were even, both toward the east, and toward the west. 16. And there came also of the children of Benjamin and of Judah unto the castle of David. 17. And David went out unto them, and answered and said unto them, If ye come in peace to me, and to help me, my heart shall be with you: but if ye come in guile, and be against me, when there is no iniquity in me, the God of our fathers look upon it, and punish it. 18. And the spirit went unto Amasai the captain of thirty: Thine are we, David, and with thee we hold, O son of Jesse. Peace, peace, be unto thee. Peace be to your helpers, for your God helps you. And David took them, and set them for heads over the men of war. 19. And of Manasseh fell to David, when he came to battle with the Philistines against Saul, and helped them not. For the lords of the Philistines sent him away with counsel, saying: If he fall unto Saul his master, it shall cost us our necks. 20. And it came to pass, as he went to Ziklag, that there fell unto him of Manasseh Adnah, and Jozabad, and Jediael, and Michael, and Jozabad, and Elihu, and Zilthai, heads of thousands in Manasseh. 21. And they helped David against the men of war: for they were all mighty men of valour, and were captains over the host. 22. And every day there came to David to help him, until there was a great host, as the host of God. 23. And these are the number of the heads of the armies that came to David to Hebron, to turn the kingdom of Saul unto him, according to the word of the LORD. 24. Of the children of Judah that bare shield and spear were six thousand and eight hundred armed for the army; 25. Of the children of Simeon, mighty men of valour for an army, seven thousand and an hundred; 26. Of the children of Levi, four thousand and six hundred; 27. And Jehoiada the prince of them of Aaron, with three thousand and seven hundred; 28. Zadok the lad, an honest man, with his father's house, twenty and two captains; 29. And of the sons of Benjamin, Saul's brethren, three thousand: for there were yet many of them in the house of Saul unto that time; 30. Of the children of Ephraim, twenty thousand and eight hundred, mighty men of valor, and mighty men of renown in the house of their fathers. 31. Of the half tribe of Manasseh, eighteen thousand, which were called by name, to come and make David king; 32. of the cattle of Issachar, which had understanding, and counselled whatsoever Israel should do at any time, two hundred captains: and all their brethren followed their word. 33. Of Zebulun, which went forth to battle, armed with all manner of weapons to battle, fifty thousand, to be set in order with one accord; 34. Of Naphtali, a thousand captains, and with them that bare shield and spear thirty and seven thousand; 35. And of Dan armed for battle twenty and eight thousand six hundred; 36. Of Asher, which went forth into the army prepared for battle, forty thousand; 37. From beyond Jordan, of the Reubenites, and of the Gadites, and of the half tribe of Manasseh, with all manner of weapons to battle, an hundred and twenty thousand. 38. All these men of war, to set the stuff in order, came to Hebron with all their heart to make David king over all Israel. And all the rest of Israel were of one heart to make David king. 39. And they were there with David three days, eating and drinking: for their brethren had prepared for them. 40. And they that were nigh unto them, even unto Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali, brought bread to eat upon asses, and upon camels, and upon mules, and upon oxen, and upon flour, and upon figs, and upon raisins, and upon wine, and upon oil, and upon oxen, and upon sheep: for there was joy in Israel. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 14 (Otherwise 13th) Obtaining and collecting the federal government's ark. 1. And David held a council with the captains over thousands and over hundreds, and with all the princes. 2. And he said unto all the congregation of Israel, If it please you, and if it be of the LORD our God, let us send us abroad unto the rest of our brethren throughout all the coasts of Israel, and with them the priests and the Levites that are in the suburbs of the cities, that they may be gathered unto us; 3. And let us bring again the ark of our God unto us: for in the days of Saul we asked not for it. 4. Then said all the congregation that it should be so done: for it pleased all the people. 5. So David gathered all Israel together, from Sihor of Egypt even unto Hemath, to take the ark of God from Kiriathjearim. 6. And David went up with all Israel to Kiriathjearim, which is in Judah, to bring up thence the ark of the LORD God, which sitteth upon the cherubims, where the name is called. 7. And they caused the ark of God to be carried in a new chariot, of the house of Abinadab. And Uzzah and his brother drove the chariot. 8. And David and all Israel played before God with all their might, with songs, and with harps, and with psalteries, and with timbrels, and with cymbals, and with trumpets. 9. And when they were come into the place of Chidon, Uzzah put forth his hand to bear the ark: for the oxen went out by the way side. 10. And the wrath of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah, and smote him, because he stretched out his hand unto the ark, and died there before God. 11. And David was grieved that the LORD had made such a breach in Uzzah: and he called the name of the place Perez-uzah unto this day. 12. And David was afraid of God that day, and said, How shall I bring the ark of God unto me? 13. Therefore he brought not the ark of God unto him into the city of David, but directed it unto the house of Obededom the Gittite. 14. So the ark of God abode with Obededom in his house three months. And the LORD blessed the house of Obededom, and all that he had. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 15 (otherwise 14th) David's wives and children. Victory against the Philistines. 1. And Huram king of Tyre sent messengers unto David, and cedar wood, and masons, and carpenters, to build him an house. 2. And David perceived that the LORD had confirmed him king over Israel: for his kingdom rose up because of his people Israel. 3. And David took more wives at Jerusalem, and begat more sons and daughters. 4. And they that were born unto him in Jerusalem were called Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Elpalet, Jebehar, Elishua Nogah, Nepheg Japhiah. 7. Elisama, Baeljada, Eliphalet. 8. And when the Philistines heard that David was anointed king over all Israel, they all went up to seek David. And when David heard it, he went out against them. 9. And the Philistines came and settled in the valley of Rephaim. 10. And David asked God, saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines, and wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto him, Go up; I have delivered them into thine hand. 11. And they went up to Baalprazim, and David smote them there. And David said, God hath divided mine enemies by mine hand, as the waters are divided. Therefore they called the name of the place Baalprazim. 12. And they left their gods there, and David burned them with fire. 13. But the Philistines set to work again, and lay low in the valley. 14. And David asked God again; and God said unto him, Thou shalt not go up after them, but turn away from them, that you come to them against the mulberry trees. 15. And it shall come to pass, when thou shalt hear the sound of the mulberry trees going up, that thou shalt go forth to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the Philistine army. 16. And David did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gaser. 17. And David's name went forth throughout all the earth, and the LORD put his fear upon all the nations. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 16 (otherwise 15th) The Ark of the Covenant is brought to its place. 1. And he built houses for him in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and spread a tabernacle over it. 2. Then said David, No man shall bear the ark of God, save the Levites: for the LORD hath chosen them to bear the ark of the LORD, and to minister unto him for ever. 3. Therefore David gathered all Israel together unto Jerusalem, that they might bring up the ark of the LORD into the place which he had prepared for it. 4. And David brought the children of Aaron and the Levites in multitude: 5. Of the sons of Kohath, Uriel the chief, and his brethren, an hundred and twenty; 6. Of the sons of Meran, Asaiah the chief, and his brethren, two hundred and twenty, 7. Of the sons of Gershom, Joel the chief, and his brethren, an hundred and thirty; 8. Of the sons of Elizaphan, Shemaiah the chief, and his brethren, two hundred; 9. Of the children of Hebron, Eliel the chief, and his brethren, fourscore; 10. Of the sons of Uzziel, Amminadab the chief, and his brethren an hundred and twelve, 11. And David called Zadok, and Abiathar the priests, and the Levites, namely, Uriel, Asaiah, Joel, Shemaiah, Eliel, Amminadab, 12. And he said unto them: Ye are the chief of the fathers among the Levites: sanctify yourselves therefore, and your brethren, that ye bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel, whither I have prepared it; 13. For in time past, when ye were not there, the LORD our God made a breach among us, because we sought him not as we ought. 14. So the priests and the Levites sanctified themselves, to bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel. 15. And the children of Levi bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereof, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD. 16. And David spake unto the chief of the Levites, that they should make their brethren singers with strings, and with psalteries, and with harps, and with cymbals, that they should sing aloud with joy. 17. And the Levites appointed Heman the son of Joel, and Assaph the son of Berechiah out of his brethren, and Ethan the son of Kushaiah out of the sons of Merari their brethren; 18. And with them their brethren of the other part; Zechariah, Ren, Jaeshiel, Shemiramoth, Jeiel, Uni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maeshiah, Mathithiah, Elipheleiah, Micneiah, Obed-edom, Jeiel, the porters. 19. For Heman, and Assaph, and Ethan, were singers, with cymbals of brass to sound brightly; 20. And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maesiah, and Benaiah, to sing after with psalteries; 21. And Mathithiah, and Elipheleiah, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps of eight strings, to sing unto them; 22. And Chenaniah the chief of the Levites, the master of the singing, taught them to sing: for he had understanding. 23. And Berechiah and Elkanah were keepers of the ark. 24. And Shebaniah, and Jehoshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, blew with trumpets before the ark of God: and Obededom and Jehiah were porters of the ark. 25. So David, and the elders of Israel, and the captains over thousands, went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the house of Obededom with joy. 26. And when God had helped the Levites that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD, they offered seven bullocks and seven rams. 27. And David was clothed in linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the songs, with the singers: David also was clothed in linen. 28. So all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouting, with trumpets, and with drums, and with cymbals, and with psalteries, and with harps. 29. And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD was come into the city of David, Michal Saul's daughter looked out at the window. And when she saw king David leaping and playing, she despised him in her heart. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 17 (otherwise 16th) David's song of praise and order of worship. 1. And when they had brought in the ark of God, they set it in the tabernacle which their David had pitched, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before God. 2. And when David had offered the burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD. 3. And he divided unto every man of Israel, both man and woman, a loaf of bread, and a piece of flesh, and a cup of wine. 4. And he set before the ark of the LORD certain of the Levites to be ministers, to praise, and to thank, and to extol the LORD God of Israel: 5. Assaph the first, Zechariah the second, Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mathithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel, with psalteries and harps; and Assaph with cymbals; 6. And Benaiah and Jehaziel the priests with trumpets at all times before the ark of the covenant of God. 7. At that time David first commanded to give thanks unto the LORD by Assaph and his brethren: 8. Give thanks unto the LORD, preach his name, make known his doings among the nations. 9. Sing unto him, and play unto him, and sing unto him of all his wonders. 10. Glorify his holy name. Let the heart of them that seek the LORD rejoice. 11. Inquire of the LORD, and of his power; seek his face always. 12. Remember his wonders which he hath done, his miracles, and his word, 13. Ye the seed of Israel his servant, ye the children of Jacob his elect. 14. He is the LORD our God: he judgeth in all the earth. 15. Remember his covenant for ever, which he hath promised unto a thousand generations, 16. Which he made with Abraham, and of his oath with Isaac; 17. And established the same unto Jacob for a law, and unto Israel for an everlasting covenant; 18. And said, Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of your inheritance, 19. Because they were few and lowly, and strangers within. 20. And they went from nation to nation, and from one kingdom to another people. 21. He suffered no man to harm them, and punished kings for their sakes. 22. Touch not mine anointed, and do not harm my prophets. 23. Sing unto the LORD, all ye countries; proclaim his salvation daily. 24. Declare his glory among the heathen, and his wonders among the nations. 25. For the LORD is great, and almost praiseworthy, and glorious above all gods. 26. For all the gods of the heathen are idols: but the LORD hath made heaven. 27. It is glorious and splendid before him; it is mighty and merry in his place. 28. Bring unto the LORD, ye nations; bring unto the LORD glory and power. 29. Bring glory to the name of the LORD; bring gifts, and come before him, and worship the LORD in holy array. 30. Let all the earth fear him. He hath prepared the ground, that it should not be moved. 31. Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; and let it be said among the nations that the LORD reigneth. 32. Let the sea roar, and all that is therein; and let the field be glad, and all that is therein. 33. And let every tree of the forest shout for joy before the LORD: for he cometh to judge the earth. 34. Give thanks unto the LORD: for he is good, and his mercy endureth for ever. 35. And say, Help us, O God our Saviour, and gather us together, and deliver us from among the heathen, that we may give thanks unto thy holy name, and praise thee. 36. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel for ever and ever: and let all the people say, Amen; and praise the LORD. 37. So there before the ark of the covenant of the LORD he made Assaph and his brethren to minister before the ark every day according to their daily work; 38. And Obededom and their brethren threescore and eight, and Obededom the son of Jeduthun, and Hossa, for porters. 39. And Zadok the priest, and his brethren the priests, left he before the tabernacle of the LORD in the high place at Gibeon, 40. And they shall offer burnt offerings unto the LORD daily upon the altar of burnt offering east and west, as it is written in the law of the LORD, which he commanded Israel; 41. And with them Heman, and Jedithun, and the rest of the chosen men that were called by name, to give thanks unto the LORD, that his mercy endureth for ever; 42. And with them Heman and Jedithun, with drums and cymbals to sound, and with stringed instruments of GOD. And the children of Jedithun he made keepers of the gate. 43. So all the people went every man to his house: and David also returned to bless his house. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 18 (otherwise 17th) David's temple building is stopped, the Messiah is promised. 1. And it came to pass, when David dwelt in his house, that he said unto Nathan the prophet, Behold, I dwell in a house of cedar, and the ark of the covenant of the LORD is under the carpets. 2. And Nathan said unto David, All that is in thine heart do: for GOD is with thee. 3. But the same night the word of God came unto Nathan, saying: 4. Go and tell David my servant, Thus saith the LORD, Thou shalt not build me an house to dwell in. 5. For I have not dwelt in any house from the day that I brought out the children of Israel unto this day: but I have been in the tabernacle, and in the tabernacle. 6. When I walked throughout all Israel, I said also unto the judges of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people, saying: Why build ye not me an house of cedars? 7. Say therefore therefore unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I have taken thee from the pasture behind the sheep, that thou shouldest be ruler over my people Israel; 8. And I have been with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off thine enemies from before thee, and have made thee a name, as the great men of the earth have names. 9. And I will set a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, and they shall dwell there, and shall be moved no more: and the wicked men shall weaken them no more, as at the first. 10. And in the days when I commanded the judges over my people Israel; and I will humble all thine enemies: and I declare unto thee, that the LORD will build thee an house. 11. And it shall come to pass, when thy days be expired, that thou shalt go to thy fathers, that I will raise up thy seed after thee, which shall be one of thy sons, and I will establish his kingdom. 12. He shall build me an house, and I will establish his throne for ever. 13. I will be his father, and he shall be my son. And I will not turn my mercy from him, as I turned it from him that was before thee, 14. But I will set him in my house and in my kingdom for ever: and his throne shall be established for ever. 15. And it came to pass, after all these words and vision, that Nathan spake unto David, 16. And king David came and stood before the LORD, and said, Who am I, O LORD GOD, and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? 17. And this hath not yet pleased thee, O God: but thou hast spoken of the house of thy servant, and of things to come: and thou hast looked upon me as in the likeness of a man that is on high, O God the LORD. 18. What more shall David say unto thee, that thou hast made thy servant glorious? Thou knowest thy servant. 19. O LORD, for thy servant's sake, according to thine own heart hast thou done all these great things, to make known all glory. 20. O Lord, there is none like thee, neither is there any god but thee, of whom we have heard with our ears. 21. And where is there a nation upon the earth like thy people Israel, where a God is gone to redeem a people unto him, and to make him himself a name of great and terrible things, to cast out nations from before thy people, whom thou redeemedst out of Egypt? 22. And thou hast made thy people Israel thy people for ever: and thou, O LORD, art become their God. 23. Now therefore, O LORD, let the word which thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, be true for ever; and do as thou hast said. 24. And let thy name be true and great for ever, that it may be said, The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, is God in Israel. And let the house of thy servant David be established before thee. 25. For thou, O LORD, hast opened the ear of thy servant, to build him an house: therefore thy servant hath found to pray before thee. 26. Now, O LORD, thou art God, and hast spoken such good things unto thy servant. 27. Now therefore begin thou to bless the house of thy servant, that it may be established before thee for ever: for that which thou blessest, O LORD, is blessed for ever. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 19 (otherwise 18th) David appoints officers after wars happily fought. 1. After this David smote the Philistines, and humbled them, and took Gath and her daughters out of the hand of the Philistines. 2. And he smote Moab also, so that Moab became servants unto David, and brought gifts. 3. And he smote Hadarezer king of Zobah in Hemath, when he went to set up his mark by the river Phrath. 4. And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand men of foot. And David lamed all the chariots, and kept an hundred chariots. 5. And the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadarezer king of Zobah. But David smote the same Syrians twenty and two thousand men. 6. And they sent people to Damascus in Syria; and the Syrians became servants unto David, and brought him gifts. For the LORD helped David whithersoever he went. 7. And David took the shields of gold that were in Hadarezer's servants, and brought them to Jerusalem. 8. David also took of the cities of Hadarezer, Tibehath, and Chun, a great deal of brass, whereof Solomon made the brazen sea, and pillars, and vessels of brass. 9. And when Togu king of Hemath heard that David had slain all the power of Hadarezer king of Zobah 10. And he sent Hadoram his son unto king David, and saluted him, and blessed him, because he had fought with Hadarezer, and smitten him. For Thogu had a quarrel with Hadarezer. And all the vessels of gold, and of silver, and of brass. 11. King David sanctified unto the LORD the silver and gold which he had taken from the heathen, even from the Edomites, and from the Moabites, and from the Ammonites, and from the Philistines, and from the Amalekites. 12. And Abishai the son of Zeruiah smote of the Edomites in the valley of salt eighteen thousand; 13. And put people in Edomaea, that all the Edomites were servants unto David. For the LORD helped David whithersoever he went. 14. So David reigned over all Israel, and administered judgment and justice unto all his people. 15. And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the void; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was chancellor. 16. Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Abimelech the son of Abiathar, were priests. Sausa was a scribe. 17. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Krethi and Plethi. And the first sons of David were at the king's hand. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 20 (otherwise 19th) David takes revenge on the taunting Ammonites. 1. And after these things died Nahash king of the children of Ammon, and his son reigned in his stead. 2. And David said, I will shew mercy unto Hanon the son of Naha: for his father hath shewed mercy unto me. And he sent messengers to comfort him concerning his father. And the servants of David came into the land of the children of Ammon unto Hanon to comfort him, 3. And the princes of the children of Ammon said unto Hanon, Dost thou think that David will honour thy father in thy sight, because he hath sent comforters unto thee? Yea, his servants are come unto thee to search, and to return, and to search the land. 4. And Hanon took David's servants, and shod them, and cut off half their garments even to the loins, and sent them away. 5. And they went away, and told David by men. And he sent to meet them, because the men were greatly defiled. And the king said, Tarry ye at Jericho, till your beard be grown; and come again. 6. And when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before David, they sent, both Hanon and the children of Ammon, a thousand talents of silver, chariots, and horsemen, out of Mesopotamia, and out of Maechah, and out of Zobah. 7. And there were thirty and two thousand chariots, and king Maechah and his people: and they came and pitched before Medbah. And the children of Ammon gathered themselves also out of their cities, and came to battle. 8. And when David heard it, he sent Joab with all the host of the mighty men. 9. And the children of Ammon went out, and prepared themselves to battle before the gate of the city. And the kings that were come kept the battle in the field. 10. And when Joab saw that there was war against him before and behind, he chose out of all the young men of Israel, and armed himself against the Syrians. 11. And the rest of the people he put under the hand of Abishai his brother, to prepare themselves against the children of Ammon. 12. And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, come to my help: but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, I will help thee. 13. Be of good cheer, and let us be of good cheer for our people, and for the cities of our God. Let the LORD do what pleases him! 14. And Joab came near with the people that were with him to fight against the Syrians: and they fled before him. 15. And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians fled, they fled also from Abishai his brother, and entered into the city. And Joab came to Jerusalem. 16. And when the Syrians saw that they were smitten before Israel, they sent messengers, and brought out the Syrians that were beyond the river. And Shophach the captain of the host of Hadarezer went before them. 17. And it came to pass, when it was told David, that he gathered all Israel together, and passed over Jordan: and when he came to them, he armed himself against them. And David armed himself against the Syrians to battle, and they fought with him. 18. But the Syrians fled before Israel. And David slew of the Syrians seven thousand chariots, and forty thousand men of foot: and he slew Shophach the captain of the host. 19. And when the servants of Hadarezer saw that they were smitten before Israel, they made peace with David and with his servants. And the Syrians would not help the children of Ammon any more. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 21 (otherwise 20th) David's war and victory against the Ammonites and Philistines. 1. And it came to pass, when the year was expired, at the time that kings go forth, that Joab led the host, and spoiled the land of the children of Ammon, and came and besieged Rabbah. But David stayed at Jerusalem. And Joab smote Rabbah, and brake it in pieces. 2. And David took the crown of their king from off his head, and found thereon a talent of gold, and precious stones: and it was set upon David's head. And he brought out of the city a great deal of spoil. 3. And he brought out the people that were within, and divided them with saws, and with hooks of iron, and with wedges. So did David to all the cities of the children of Ammon. And David and the people returned unto Jerusalem. 4. After this there was a battle in Gaser with the Philistines. Then Sibechai the Hushathite smote Sibai, which was of the children of the giants, and humbled him. 5. And there was yet a battle with the Philistines. And Elhanan the son of Jair smote Lahemi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, which had a spear like a weaver's beam. 6. And again there was a controversy in Gath. There was a great man who had six fingers and six toes, making twenty-four, and he was born of giants; 7. And he honoured Israel. But Jonathan the son of Simea, David's brother, smote him. 8. These were born of the giants of Gath, and fell by the hand of David and his servants. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 22 (otherwise 21st) Three-day pestilence caused by counting the people. 1. And Satan stood against Israel, and admitted David to number Israel. 2. And David said unto Joab, and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even unto Dan, and bring them unto me, that I may know how many they are. 3. And Joab said, The LORD do unto his people, as they are now, an hundred times as much: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? Why then doth my lord ask it? Why shall there be iniquity upon Israel? 4. And the king's word went out against Joab. And Joab went out, and walked through all Israel, and came to Jerusalem. 5. And he gave the number of the people that were numbered unto David. And there were of all Israel eleven hundred thousand men that drew sword, and Judah four hundred thousand, and seventy thousand men that drew sword. 6. And Levi and Benjamin he numbered not among them: for the king's word was abomination to Joab. 7. But these things displeased God: for he smote Israel. 8. And David said unto God, I have sinned greatly in doing this: now therefore take away the iniquity of thy servant, because I have done almost foolishly. 9. And the LORD spake unto Gad the Philistine of David, saying: 10. Go and speak unto David, and say, Thus saith the LORD, I set before thee three things; choose thee one that I do unto thee. 11. And when Gad was come to David, he said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Choose thee 12. Either three years' torment, or three months' flight from thine adversaries, and from the sword of thine enemies, to take thee; or three days the sword of the LORD, and pestilence in the land, to destroy the angel of the LORD throughout all the coasts of Israel. Now therefore see what answer I shall give unto him that sent me. 13. And David said unto Gad: I am almost afraid; but I will fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is very great; and I will not fall into the hands of men. 14. Then the LORD sent pestilence upon Israel, and seventy thousand men fell out of Israel. 15. And God sent the angel to Jerusalem to destroy them. And when the LORD saw the destruction, he repented him of the evil, and said unto the angel that destroyed, It is enough; stay thine hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Arnan the Jebusite. 16. And David lifted up his eyes, and saw the angel of the LORD standing between heaven and earth, and a naked sword stretched out in his hand over Jerusalem. And David and the ancients, covered with sackcloth, fell upon their faces. 17. And David said unto God, Am not I he that numbered the people? I am he that hath sinned, and done evil: but these sheep, what have they done? O LORD my God, let thy hand be against me, and against my father's house, and not against thy people to afflict them. 18. And the angel spake unto Gad, that he should tell David to go up, and to set up an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Arnan the Jebusite. 19. So David went up according to the word of Gad, which he spake in the name of the LORD. 20. And Arnan, when he turned, and saw the angel, and his four sons with him, hid themselves: for Arnan threshed wheat. 21. And it came to pass, when David went to Arnan, that Arnan saw and knew David, and went out of the threshingfloor, and worshipped David with his face to the ground. 22. And David said unto Arnan, Give me a place in the threshingfloor, that I may build an altar unto the LORD upon it: for full money shalt thou give it me, that the plague of the people may cease. 23. And Arnan said unto David, Take thee, and do, my lord the king, as it pleaseth thee: behold, I give the ox for a burnt offering, and the crockery for wood, and the wheat for a meat offering: all these I give. 24. And king David said unto Arnan, Not so, but for a full price will I buy it: for I will not take that which is thine before the LORD, neither will I have it for a free burnt offering. 25. So David gave Arnan for the room of gold by weight six hundred shekels. 26. And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. And when he called upon the LORD, he heard him by fire from heaven upon the altar of burnt offering. 27. And the LORD spake unto the angel, that he should put up his sword into his sheath. 28. At that time, when David saw that the LORD had heard him in the place of Arnan the Jebusite, he used to sacrifice there. 29. For the tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses made in the wilderness, and the altar of burnt offering, were at that time in Gibeon on high. 30. But David could not go before them to seek God, because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the LORD. Ch. 23, v. 1: And David said, Here shall be the house of the LORD God, and this the altar of the burnt offering of Israel. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 23 (otherwise 22nd) Necessary preparation for the building of the temple. 2. And David commanded to gather together the strangers that were in the land of Israel, and to appoint masons to hew stones to build the house of God. 3. And David prepared much iron for nails for the doors of the gates, and that which was to be nailed, and so much brass as was not to be weighed; 4. Also cedar wood without number: for they of Zidon and Tyre brought much cedar wood unto David. 5. For David said, Solomon my son is a boy, and tender: but the house that shall be built for the LORD shall be great, and his name and his fame shall be exalted throughout all the earth: therefore will I provide for him. So David made much provision before his death. 6. And he called Solomon his son, and commanded him to build the house of the LORD God of Israel. 7. And said unto him, My son, I had it in mind to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God. 8. But the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Thou hast shed much blood, and hast made great wars: thou shalt not therefore build an house unto my name, because thou hast shed so much blood upon the earth before me. 9. Behold, the son that shall be born unto thee shall be a quiet man: for I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon: for I will give peace and quietness unto Israel all the days of his life. 10. He shall build an house for my name. He shall be my son, and I will be his father. And I will confirm his royal throne over Israel for ever. 11. Now therefore, my son, the LORD be with thee, and thou shalt be blessed to build an house unto the LORD thy God, as he hath spoken of thee. 12. The LORD also shall give thee wisdom and understanding, and shall command thee Israel, that thou keep the law of the LORD thy God. 13. But then shalt thou be blessed, if thou keep thyself to do the commandments and the statutes which the LORD Moses commanded Israel. Be of good courage, and be not afraid: fear not, neither be dismayed. 14. Behold, I have brought in my poverty unto the house of the LORD an hundred thousand talents of gold, and a thousand thousand talents of silver, and brass and iron without number; for they are too much for him. I have also sent wood and stones: thou mayest make more. 15. So hast thou many workmen, stonemasons, and carpenters, of stone and wood, and all manner of workmen, of all manner of work, 16. Of gold, and silver, and brass, and iron, without number. Arise thou, therefore, and set it right: the LORD will be with thee. 17. And David commanded all the princes of Israel to help Solomon his son. 18. Is not the LORD your God with you, and hath given you rest round about? For he hath delivered the inhabitants of the land into your hand, and the land is lodged before the LORD, and before his people. 19. Set your hearts therefore, and your souls, to seek the LORD your God. And arise, and build unto the LORD God a sanctuary, to bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and the holy vessels of the LORD, into the house that is to be built unto the name of the LORD. Ch. 24. v. 1. So David made Solomon his son king over Israel, when he was old and full of life. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 24 (otherwise 23rd) The Levites number, order and office. 2. And David gathered together all the princes of Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, 3. And they numbered the Levites from thirty years old and upward: and their number was from head to head of strong men thirty and eight thousand. 4. Of whom were appointed twenty and four thousand to do the work of the house of the LORD, and six thousand officers and judges. 5. And four thousand keepers of the gate, and four thousand singers of the praises of the LORD with stringed instruments, which I have made to sing praises. 6. And David made order among the children of Levi, namely, among Gershon, and Kohath, and Meran. 7. the Gersonites were: Laedan and Simei. 8. The children of Laedan: the first Jehiel, Setham, and Joel, the three. 9. And the sons of Shimei were: Solomith, and Haziel, and Haran, the three. These were the chief of the fathers of Laedan. 10. These also were the sons of Shimei; Jahath, and Sheina, and Jeus, and Briah. These four were also Simei's children. 11. And Jahath was the first, and Sheina the second. But Jeus and Briah had not many children; therefore they were counted for a father's house. 12. And the sons of Kohath were: Amram, Jezehar, Hebron, and Uzziel, the four. 13. The sons of Amram: Aaron and Moses. And Aaron was set apart to be sanctified in the most holy place, he and his sons for ever, to burn incense before the LORD, to minister, and to bless in the name of the LORD for ever. 14. And Moses the man of God's children were called of the tribe of the Levites. 15. And the sons of Moses were Gershom and Eliezer. 16. The sons of Gershom: the first was Zebuel. 17. The sons of Eliezer: the first was Rehabiah. And Eliezer had no other children. But the children of Rehabiah were many. 18. The children of Jezehar were: Solomith the first. 19. The sons of Hebron were: Jena the first, Amariah the second, Jehaziel the third, and Jakmeam the fourth. 20. The children of Uzziel were: Micah the first and Isaiah the other. 21. the children of Merari were: Maheli and Musi. The children of Maheli were: Eleazar and Kis. 22. And Eleazar died, and had no sons, but daughters: and the sons of Kish, their brethren, took them. 23. The children of Musi were: Maheli, Eder, and Jeremoth the three. 24. These are the sons of Levi, of the house of their fathers, and the chief of the fathers, numbered by name among the chief, which did the work of the service of the house of the LORD, from twenty years old and upward. 25. For David said, The LORD God of Israel hath given rest unto his people, and will dwell at Jerusalem for ever. 26. And among the Levites also were numbered the sons of Levi from twenty years old and upward, that they should not bear the tabernacle with all the vessels of their service, 27. but according to the last words of David, 28. That they should stand under the hand of the children of Aaron, to minister in the house of the LORD, in the court, and in the treasuries, and in the washing, and in all the sanctuary, and in all the work of the service of the house of GOD. 29. And for shewbread, and for fine flour, and for a meat offering, and for unleavened cakes, and for a pan, and for roasting, and for every weight and measure; 30. And to stand in the morning, to give thanks, and to praise the LORD; in the evening also; 31. And to offer all the burnt offerings unto the LORD upon the sabbaths, and upon the new moons, and upon the feasts, according to the number thereof, and according to the charge thereof, before the LORD, 32. That they may keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and of the sanctuary, and of the sons of Aaron their brethren, to minister in the house of the LORD. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 25 (otherwise 24th) Chiefs in the sanctuary and their servants. 1. But this was the order of the children of Aaron. The children of Aaron were: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. 2. But Nadab and Abihu died before their father, and had no children. And Eleazar and Ithamar became priests. 3. And David numbered them, Zadok of the sons of Eleazar, and Ahimelech of the sons of Ithamar, according to their number and station. 4. And more of the sons of Eleazar were found to be mighty men of valour than of the sons of Ithamar. And he made them sixteen of the sons of Eleazar captains of their fathers' house, and eight of the sons of Ithamar captains of their fathers' house. 5. And he set them in order by lot, that both of the sons of Eleazar and of Ithamar should be captains in the sanctuary, and captains before God. 6. And Shemaiah the scribe, the son of Nethaneel, of the Levites, described them before the king, and before the princes, and before Zadok the priest, and before Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, and before the chief fathers among the priests and Levites; namely, one father's house for Eleazar, and the other for Ithamar. 7. And the first lot fell upon Jehoiarib, and the other upon Jedaiah, 8. the third on Hamm, the fourth on Seorim, 9. The fifth to Malchiah, and the sixth to Mejamin, 10. The seventh to Hakoz, the eighth to Abia, 11. The ninth to Jesua, the tenth to Shechaniah; 12. The eleventh to Eliasib, and the twelfth to Jakim, 13. The thirteenth on Hupa, the fourteenth on Jesebeab, 14. the fifteenth on Bilga, the sixteenth on Immer, 15. the seventeenth on Hesir, the eighteenth on Hapizez, 16. The nineteenth to Pethahiah, and the twentieth to Jeheskel, 17. The twenty-first on Jachin, the twenty-second on Gamul, 18. the twenty-third to Delaiah, the twenty-fourth to Maasia. 19. This is their order according to their service, to go into the house of the LORD after their manner under Aaron their father, as the LORD God of Israel commanded them. 20. And of the rest of the sons of Levi, of the sons of Amram, was Shubael. And of the sons of Zubael was Jehdea. 21. The first of the sons of Rehabiah was Jeziah. 22. But among the Jezeharites was Slomoth. Among the children of Slomoth was Jahath. 23. The children of Hebron were: Jena the first, Amariah the second, Jahesiel the third, Jakmeam the fourth. 24. The children of Uzziel were Micah. Among the children of Micah was Samir. 25. The brother of Micah was Jeziah. Among the children of Isaiah was Zechariah. 26. And the sons of Merari were: Maheli and Musi, whose son was Jaesiah. 27. And the sons of Merari by Jaeshiah his son were: Soham, Sakur and Ibri. 28. And Maheli had Eleazar; for he had no sons. 29. from Kis. The children of Kish were: Jerahmeel. 30. The children of Musi were: Maheli, Eder, and Jerimoth. These are the children of the Levites under their fathers' house. 31. And they cast lots for them also, beside their brethren the sons of Aaron, before king David, and Zadok, and Ahimelech, and before the chief of the fathers of the priests and Levites, even the least of the brethren, and the chief of the fathers. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 26 (otherwise 25th) Order of the holy singers. 1. And David and the captains of the host separated the prophets from among the sons of Asaph, and Heman, and Jeduthun, with harps, and psalteries, and cymbals: and they were numbered for the work according to their ministration. 2. Of the sons of Assaph: Zacur, Joseph, Nethaniah, Azarela, sons of Assaph, of Assaph, which prophesied with the king. 3. From Jedithun. The children of Jedithun were: Gedaliah, and Zori, and Jesaiah, and Hashabiah, and Mathithiah, the six of them under Jedithun their father, with harps prophesying to give thanks and praise unto the LORD. 4. From Heman. The children of Heman were: Bukiah, Mathaniah, Uzziel, Zebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Eliatha, Gidalthi, Romamthi-eser, Jazbekasa, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahesioth. 5. These were all the children of Heman, the king's shaker in the words of GOD to lift up the horn; for GOD had given Heman fourteen sons and three daughters. 6. These were all of their fathers, Assaph, Jedithun, and Heman, to sing in the house of the LORD with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, after the service of the house of GOD with the king. 7. And the number of them, and of their brethren that were instructed in the song of the LORD, all of them masters, were two hundred fourscore and eight. 8. And they cast lots for their office at once, both for the least and for the greatest, for the teacher and for the pupil. 9. And the first lot fell upon Joseph from among Asaph. And the second lot fell upon Gedaliah, and upon his brethren, and upon his sons, which were twelve. 10. The third to Sakur, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 11. The fourth to Jezri, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 12. The fifth to Nethaniah, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 13. The sixth to Bukiah, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 14. The seventh to Jezreelah, and his sons and his brethren, which were twelve. 15. And the eighth, Isaiah, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 16. The ninth to Jonathan, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 17. And the tenth to Shimei, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 18. The eleventh to Azareel, and his sons, and his brethren, were twelve. 19. The twelfth to Hashabiah, and to his sons, and to his brethren: they were twelve. 20. And the thirteenth to Subael, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 21. The fourteenth to Mathithiah, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 22. The fifteenth to Jeremoth, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 23. The sixteenth to Hananiah, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 24. The seventeenth to Jazbekasa, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 25. The eighteenth to Hanani, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 26. The nineteenth to Mallothi, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 27. And the twentieth to Eliatha, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 28. The twenty and first to Hothir, and to his sons, and to his brethren, which were twelve. 29. The twenty and second to Gidalthi, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 30. The twenty and third to Mahesioth, and his sons, and his brethren, which were twelve. 31. The four and twentieth of Romamthiezer, and his sons and his brethren, which were twelve. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 27 (otherwise 26th) Appointment of goalkeepers, treasurers and judges. 1. Of the order of the keepers of the gate. Among the Korhites was Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the children of Assaph. 2. And the sons of Meshelemiah were these; the firstborn Zechariah, the second Jediael, the third Zebadiah, the fourth Jathniel, 3. the fifth Elam, the sixth Johanan, the seventh Elioenai. 4. And the sons of Obededom were these; Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, Zechariah the fourth, Nethaneel the fifth, 5. the sixth Ammiel, the seventh Issachar, the eighth Pegulthai; for GOD had blessed him. 6. And unto Shemaiah his son were sons also born, that reigned in the house of their fathers: for they were mighty men of valour. 7. Now the sons of Shemaiah; Athni, and Rephael, and Obed, and Elzabad, whose brethren were diligent men, Elihu, and Samachiah. 8. These were all of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, all men of valour, skilled in the work of the ministry, were threescore and two of Obededom. 9. And Meshelemiah had children, and brethren, industrious men, eighteen. 10. And Hosah of the sons of Merari had children: the chiefest Zimri (for the firstborn was not there; therefore his father made him chief), 11. The second Hilkiah, the third Tebaliah, the fourth Zechariah. All the sons and brethren of Hosah were thirteen. 12. This is the order of the porters among the chief of the mighty in the ministry, beside their brethren, to minister in the house of the LORD. 13. And the lot was cast, both to the small and to the great, under the house of their fathers, unto every gate. 14. And the lot toward the east fell upon Meshelemiah: but unto Zechariah his son, who was a wise counsellor, the lot was cast, and fell upon him toward the north; 15. And Obededom toward the south, and his sons, by the house of Esupim; 16. And Supim and Hossa toward the even, at the gate of the way of the burnt offerings, where the guard standeth by the way of the burnt offerings. 17. In the morning there were six Levites, and in the north of the day four, and in the south of the day four: and in Esupim two and two; 18. at Parbar but towards evening four at the road, and two at Parbar. 19. These are the ordinances of the porters among the children of the Korhites, and among the children of Merari. 20. And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures that were sanctified. 21. Of the children of Laedan, the children of the Gershonites. Of Laedan were chief of the fathers, even the Jehielites. 22. The children of the Jehielites were: Setham and his brother Joel over the treasures of the house of the LORD. 23. Among the Amramites, Jezeharites, Hebronites, and Usielites 24. And Zebuel the son of Gershom, the son of Moses, was ruler over the treasures. 25. And Eliezer his brother had a son Rehabiah, whose son was Jeshaiah, whose son was Joram, whose son was Zichri, whose son was Zelomith. 26. The same Selomith and his brethren were over all the treasures of the sanctified, which king David sanctified, and the chief fathers among the captains over thousands, and over hundreds, and the captains of the host. 27. From strife and spoil they had sanctified it, to repair the house of the LORD. 28. And all that Samuel the seer, and Saul the son of Kish, and Abner the son of Ner, and Joab the son of Zeruiah, had sanctified, all that was sanctified was under the hand of Selomith and his brethren. 29. And of the Jezeharites, Chenaniah and his sons were without to work over Israel, officers and judges. 30. And among the Hebronites was Hashabiah, and his brethren, diligent men, a thousand and seven hundred, over the ministry of Israel on this side Jordan, toward the even, for all the business of the LORD, and to minister unto the king. 31. Item, among the Hebronites was Jena, the chiefest of the Hebronites of his family among the fathers. And there were sought among them, and found in the fortieth year of the kingdom of David diligent men at Jaesher in Gilead, 32. And their brethren, diligent men, two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers. And David set them over the Reubenites, and over the Gadites, and over the half tribe of Manasseh, for all the dealings of GOD and of the king. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 28 (otherwise 27th) David's field chiefs, princes, officers, and court councillors. 1. And the children of Israel according to their number were heads of the fathers, and more than a thousand, and more than an hundred, and officers that waited upon the king, according to their order, from time to time, every month one, throughout all the months of the year. Each order had twenty-four thousand. 2. Over the first order of the first month was Jashabeam the son of Abdiel: and in his order were twenty and four thousand. 3. And of the sons of Perez was chief over all the captains of the armies in the first month. 4. Over the order of the second month was Dodai the Ahohite, and Mikloth was ruler over his order: and in his order were twenty and four thousand. 5. The third captain of the host of the third month, the chief captain, was Benaiah the son of Jehoiada the priest: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 6. This is Benaiah the hero among thirty and above thirty: and his order was under Ammizabad his son. 7. The fourth in the fourth month was Asahel Joab's brother, and after him Zabadiah his son: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 8. The fifth in the fifth month was Shamhuth the Jezrahite: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 9. The sixth in the sixth month was Ira the son of Ike the Thekite: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 10. The seventh in the seventh month was Helez the Pelonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 11. The eighth in the eighth month was Sibechai the Hushathite, of the Sarehites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 12. The ninth in the ninth month was Abiezer the Anthothite, of the sons of Jemini: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 13. The tenth in the tenth month was Maherai the Netophathite, of the Zerahites: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 14. The eleventh in the eleventh month was Benaiah the Pirgathonite, of the children of Ephraim: and in his course were twenty and four thousand. 15. The twelfth in the twelfth month was Heldai the Netophathite, of Athniel: and in his order were twenty and four thousand. 16. And over the tribes of Israel were these: Among the Reubenites was Eliezer the son of Zichri. And of the Simeonites, Shephatiah the son of Maechah. 17. Among the Levites was Hashabiah the son of Kemuel. Among the Aaronites was Zadok. 18. And under Judah was Elihu of the brethren of David. And under Issachar was Amri the son of Michael. 19. Under Zebulun was Ishmaiah the son of Obadiah. Under Naphtali was Jerimoth the son of Azriel. 20. And of the children of Ephraim was Hosea the son of Azaziah. And of the half tribe of Manasseh was Joel the son of Pedaiah. 21. And of the half tribe of Manasseh in Gilead was Iddo the son of Zechariah. Among Benjamin was Jaesiel the son of Abner. 22. Under Dan was Azareel the son of Jeroham. These are the princes of the tribes of Israel. 23. But David took not the number of them that were twenty years old and under: for the LORD had spoken to multiply Israel as the stars of heaven. 24. And Joab the son of Zeruiah began to number, and finished it not: for there was wrath upon Israel because of it: therefore the number was not written in the book of the chronicles of king David. 25. Over the king's treasure was Azmaveth the son of Adiel: and over the treasures of the land in the cities, in the villages, and in the castles, was Jonathan the son of Uzziah. 26. Over the husbandmen to build the land was Esri the son of Chelub. 27. And over the vineyards was Shimei the Ramathite. Over the cellars and treasures of wine was Zabdi the Ziphimite. 28. Over the oliveyards and the mulberry trees in the meadows was Baalhanan the Gaderite. Over the oil treasure was Joash. 29. And over the herds of Saron was Sitrai the Saronite. But over the oxen in Gründen was Shaphat the son of Adlai. 30. Over the camels was Obil the Ishmaelite. Over the asses was Jehediah the Meronothite. 31. And over the sheep was Jasis the Hagarite. These were all rulers over the goods of king David. 32. And Jonathan David's cousin was the counselor, and the steward, and the chancellor. And Jehiel the son of Hachmoni was with the king's children. 33. Ahithophel also was the king's counselor. Husai the Arachite was the king's friend. 34. After Ahithophel was Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar. And Joab was captain of the king's host. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 29 (otherwise 28th) David's last kingdom day, hired for the building of the temple. 1. And David gathered together unto Jerusalem all the princes of Israel, even the princes of the tribes, and the princes of the orders that waited upon the king, the princes over thousands and over hundreds, the princes over the king's goods and the king's cattle, and his sons, with the stewards, and the men of war, and all the valiant men. 2. And David the king stood upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren and my people. I purposed to build an house, where the ark of the covenant of the LORD should rest, and a footstool for the feet of our God; and I had sent to build it. 3. But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house unto my name: for thou art a man of war, and hast shed blood. 4. Now the LORD God of Israel hath chosen me out of all my father's house to be king over Israel for ever. For he hath chosen Judah to be a principality, and in the house of Judah my father's house, and among my father's children, he was pleased with me, to make me king over all Israel. 5. And of all my sons (for the LORD hath given me many sons) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. 6. And he said unto me: Solomon thy son shall build my house and my court: for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father; 7. And I will establish his kingdom for ever, when he shall endure to do according to my commandments and my statutes, as it is this day. 8. Now therefore before all Israel the congregation of the LORD, and in the ears of our God, keep and seek all the commandments of the LORD your God, that ye may possess the good land, and inherit it for your children after you for ever. 9. And thou, my son Solomon, know the God of thy father, and serve him with all thine heart and with all thy soul. For the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all thoughts. If thou seek him, thou shalt find him: but if thou forsake him, he will forsake thee for ever. 10. Take heed therefore, for the LORD hath chosen thee to build the house of the sanctuary: be thou confident, and make it. 11. And David gave Solomon his son a pattern of the hall, and of his house, and of the chambers, and of the halls, and of the chambers within, and of the house of the mercy seat; 12. For the pattern of all that was with him in his mind, even of the court of the house of the LORD, and of all the chambers round about, of the treasure of the house of GOD, and of the treasure of the sanctified, 13. The order of the priests, and of the Levites, and of all the service of the house of the LORD. 14. Gold by weight for all manner of vessels of every office, and all manner of silver ware by weight for all manner of vessels of every office. 15. And gold for candlesticks of gold, and for lamps of gold, for every candlestick, and for every lamp thereof, according to his weight: so also for silver candlesticks he gave the silver for the candlestick, and for the lamp thereof, according to the service of every candlestick. 16. And he gave gold for tables of shewbread, and to every table his weight, and silver for tables of silver, 17. And all gold for crosses, and for basons, and for caldrons, and for golden cups, every cup according to his weight, and for silver cups, every cup according to his weight, 18. And for the altar of incense the most precious gold, the weight thereof; also a pattern of the chariot of the cherubims of gold, to spread themselves out, and to cover the ark of the covenant of the LORD above. 19. All things were given me of the hand of the LORD, to instruct me in all the works of the pattern. 20. And David said unto Solomon his son, Be of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed. God the LORD my God shall be with thee, and shall not withdraw his hand from thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work of the service of the house of the LORD. 21. Behold, the order of the priests and of the Levites, unto all the offices of the house of God, are with thee in all thy dealings, and are willing and wise unto all the maters, and the princes, and all the people, unto all thy doings. (1 Chronicles) Chapter 30 (otherwise 29th) Tax for the building of the temple. Solomon's and Zadok's anointing. David's farewell. 1. And king David said unto all the congregation, God hath chosen Solomon, one of my sons, young and tender: but the work is great, because it is not the habitation of man, but of God the LORD. 2. And I have sent out of all my strength unto the house of God gold for gold, and silver for silver, brass for brass, iron for iron, wood for wood, onyx stones, and rubies set in stones, and stones of many colours, and all manner of precious stones, and marble stones in multitude. 3. Above that, for the pleasure of the house of my God, I have goods of my own, gold and silver, 4. Three thousand talents of gold of Ophir, and seven thousand talents of pure silver: this will I give to the holy house of GOD above all that I have sent to cover the walls of the houses, 5. That that which is gold may be made gold, and that that which is silver may be made silver, and for all manner of work by the hand of the craftsmen. And who then is willing to fill his hand to the Lord this day? 6. There were the princes of the fathers, the princes of the tribes of Israel, the princes over thousands and over hundreds, and the princes over the king's business willingly; 7. And they gave for the service of the house of God five thousand talents of gold, and ten thousand of silver, and ten thousand of silver, and eighteen thousand talents of brass, and an hundred thousand talents of iron. 8. And they that found stones gave them for the treasure of the house of the LORD into the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite. 9. And the people rejoiced that they were free: for they gave it freely unto the LORD with all their heart. And David the king also rejoiced greatly; 10. And he praised God, and said before all the congregation, Blessed art thou, O LORD God of Israel our father, for ever. 11. To thee be majesty, and power, and glory, and victory, and thanksgiving. For all things in heaven and on earth are thine. Thine is the kingdom, and thou art exalted to be supreme over all. 12. Thine is the riches and the honour before thee: thou hast dominion over all things: in thine hand is strength and power; in thine hand is it to make every man great and strong. 13. Now, O our God, we thank thee, and praise the name of thy glory. 14. For what am I? What am my people, that we should have power to give freely, as this is done? For from thee have all things come, and from thy hand have we given them thee. 15. For we are strangers and sojourners before thee, as were all our fathers. Our life upon earth is as a shadow, and is no stay. 16. O LORD our God, all this company, which we have sent to build thee a house for thy holy name, is come from thy hand, and is all thine. 17. I know, O my God, that thou searchest the heart, and sincerity is acceptable unto thee. Therefore I have freely given all these things out of a sincere heart, and now I have seen with joy your people who are here, that they have freely given to you. 18. O LORD God of our fathers, of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Israel, keep such a mind and thought in the hearts of thy people for ever, and send their hearts unto thee. 19. And give Solomon my son an upright heart, that he may keep thy commandments, and thy testimonies, and thy statutes, and do all these things, and build this tabernacle which I have sent. 20. And David said unto all the congregation, Praise the LORD your God. And all the congregation praised the LORD God of their fathers, and bowed themselves, and worshipped the LORD and the king. 21. And they offered sacrifices unto the LORD. And on the morrow they offered burnt offerings, a thousand bullocks, and a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, with their drink offerings: and they offered the multitude among all Israel. 22. And they did eat and drink that day before the LORD with great joy. And the second time they made Solomon the son of David king, and anointed him prince unto the LORD, and Zadok priest. 23. So Solomon sat upon the throne of the LORD, a king in the stead of David his father, and was blessed: and all Israel obeyed him. 24. And all the princes and the mighty men, even all the sons of king David, joined themselves unto king Solomon. 25. And the LORD made Solomon greater and greater in the sight of all Israel, and gave him a praiseworthy kingdom, which none before him had had over Israel. 26. And David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. 27. And the time that he reigned over Israel was forty years. He reigned in Hebron seven years, and in Jerusalem thirty and three years. 28. And he died in a good old age, full of life, and riches, and honour. And Solomon his son reigned in his stead. 29. Now the acts of king David, both the first and the last, behold, they are written among the acts of Samuel the seer, and among the acts of Nathan the prophet, and among the acts of Gad the seer, 30. With all his kingdom, power, and times, which passed under him, both over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second book of the Chronicle (2 Chronicles) ^ Chapter 1 Solomon's wisdom and wealth. 1. And Solomon the son of David was confirmed in his kingdom: and the LORD his God was with him, and made him greater and greater. 2. And Solomon spake unto all Israel, to the rulers of thousands and hundreds, to the judges, and to all the princes of Israel, to the chief fathers, 3. And they went, Solomon and all the congregation with him, unto the high place that was at Gibeon: for there was the tabernacle of the congregation of God, which Moses the servant of the LORD had made in the wilderness. 4. For David had brought up the ark of God from Kiriathjearim, whither he had prepared it: for he had pitched a tabernacle for it in Jerusalem. 5. And the brass altar which Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made was there before the tabernacle of the LORD: and Solomon and the congregation sought it. 6. And Solomon offered upon the brasen altar before the LORD, which was before the tabernacle of the congregation, a thousand burnt offerings. 7. And that night God appeared unto Solomon, and said unto him, Pray, what shall I give thee? 8. And Solomon said unto GOD, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me king in his stead; 9. Now therefore, O LORD God, let thy words be fulfilled in David my father: for thou hast made me king over a people that are as the dust of the earth. 10. Now therefore give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy great people? 11. And God said unto Solomon, Because thou hast this in mind, and hast not asked for riches, nor for goods, nor for honour, nor for the souls of thine enemies, nor for long life, but hast asked for wisdom and knowledge, that thou mayest judge my people, wherefore I have made thee king, 12. Then shall wisdom and knowledge be given thee, and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour; and there shall not be any like thee among the kings that were before thee, neither shall there be after thee. 13. So Solomon came from the high place that was at Gibeon unto Jerusalem from the tabernacle of the congregation, and reigned over Israel. 14. And Solomon gathered him chariots and horsemen, and brought him a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen: and he left them in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem. 15. And the king made the silver and the gold of Jerusalem as much as the stones, and the cedars as the mulberry trees of the valley. 16. And they brought Solomon horses out of Egypt, and all manner of merchandise. And the king's merchants bought the same merchandise. 17. And they brought them out of Egypt, a chariot for six hundred pieces of silver, and a horse for an hundred and fifty. So they brought to all the kings of the Hittites, and to the kings of Syria. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 2 Necessary preparation for the construction of the temple. 1. And Solomon purposed to build an house to the name of the LORD, and a house of his kingdom. 2. And he numbered seventy thousand men to the burden, and eighty thousand carpenters in the mount, and three thousand and six hundred officers over them. 3. And Solomon sent unto Huram king of Tyre, saying, As thou didst unto David my father, and didst send him cedars, to build him an house to dwell in; 4. Behold, I will build an house unto the name of the LORD my God, and it shall be sanctified unto him, to burn incense before him, and to burn shewbread continually, and burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the feasts of the LORD our God for Israel for ever. 5. And the house that I will build shall be great: for our God is greater than all gods. 6. But who can build him an house? For heaven and all the heavens cannot provide for him: who then shall I be that buildeth him an house? But that they should burn incense before him. 7. Send me therefore a wise man to work with gold, and silver, and brass, and iron, and scarlet, and scarlet, and yellow silk, and to dig with the wise men that are with me in Judah and Jerusalem, whom David my father sent. 8. And send me cedar, and fir, and ebony, from Lebanon: for I know that thy servants know how to hew wood in Lebanon. And, behold, my servants shall be with thy servants, 9. That they prepare me much wood: for the house which I shall build shall be great and excellent. 10. And, behold, I will give unto the carpenters, thy servants that hew the timber, twenty thousand measures of thrust wheat, and twenty thousand measures of barley, and twenty thousand baths of wine, and twenty thousand baths of oil. 11. Then Huram king of Tyre spake by writing, and sent unto Solomon, Because the LORD loveth his people, he hath made thee king over them. 12. And Huram said again, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which made heaven and earth, that he hath given unto David the king a wise son, and a prudent son, and a son of understanding, to build the house of the LORD, and the house of his kingdom. 13. Now therefore I send a wise man that hath understanding, Huram-Abif, 14. Who is the son of a woman of the daughters of Dan, and his father was a tyrant: who knoweth how to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in stone, and in wood, and in scarlet, and in yellow silk, and in linen, and in scarlet, and in digging all manner of work, and in making all manner of work that shall be set before him, with thy wise men, and with the wise men of my lord king David thy father. 15. Now therefore send my lord wheat, and barley, and oil, and wine, unto his servants, as he hath spoken, 16. And we will hew the timber in Lebanon, as much as is needful; and we will bring it in rafts in the sea unto Japho: thence shalt thou bring it up to Jerusalem. 17. And Solomon numbered all the strangers that were in the land of Israel according to the number which David his father numbered: and there were found an hundred and fifty thousand, three thousand and six hundred. 18. And he made of them seventy thousand porters, and fourscore thousand hewers in the mount, and three thousand and six hundred overseers to keep the people in the service. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 3 Of the building of the temple. 1. And Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, in mount Moriah, which was pointed out to David his father, which David had prepared for a place in the place of Arnan the Jebusite. 2. And he began to build in the second month of the second day, in the fourth year of his reign. 3. And Solomon laid the foundation to build the house of God: the length of the first was threescore cubits, and the breadth twenty cubits. 4. And the length of the hall before the breadth of the house was twenty cubits, and the height thereof an hundred and twenty cubits: and he overlaid it within with pure gold. 5. And the great house he sprinkled with fir wood, and overlaid it with the best gold, and made upon it palm trees and chains. 6. And he overlaid the house with precious stones for ornaments: and the gold was the gold of Parvaim. 7. And he overlaid the beams above, and the walls, and the doors, with gold, and carved cherubims upon the walls. 8. He made also the house of the most holy, the length of which was twenty cubits according to the breadth of the house, and the breadth thereof twenty cubits: and he overlaid it with the best gold, about six hundred talents. 9. And he gave also for nails fifty shekels of gold by weight; and overlaid the halls with gold. 10. He made also in the house of the holy of holies two cherubims after the art of the sculptors, and overlaid them with gold. 11. And the length of the wing of the cherubims was twenty cubits: one wing was five cubits, and touched the wall of the house; and the other wing was five cubits, and touched the wing of the other cherub. 12. And the wing of the other cherub was five cubits, and touched the wall of the house; and the other wing thereof was five cubits, and hung upon the wing of the other cherub, 13. And the wings of the cherubims were spread out twenty cubits: and they stood upon their feet, and their faces were turned toward the house. 14. He made also a curtain of yellow work, and scarlet, and scarlet, and linen; and made cherubims upon it. 15. And he made before the house two pillars thirty and five cubits long; and the top thereof five cubits. 16. And he made chains for the choir, and put them upon the top of the pillars; and he made an hundred pomegranates, and put them upon the chains. 17. And he set up the pillars before the temple, one on the right hand, and the other on the left: and he called the name of the pillar on the right hand Jachin, and the name of the pillar on the left Boaz. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 4 Of the things belonging to the temple. 1. He made also an altar of brass, twenty cubits long and broad, and ten cubits high. 2. And he made a sea of water ten cubits from the brim to the brim round about, and five cubits high; and a measure of thirty cubits compassed it round about. 3. And the images of oxen were round about him: and there were two bends of the sea round about, ten cubits broad, cast on with them. 4. And it was so upon the twelve oxen, that three were turned toward the north, and three toward the west, and three toward the south, and three toward the east, and the sea was upon them: and all the hindmost of them was within. 5. The thickness thereof was an handbreadth, and the brim thereof was as the brim of a cup, and as a rose sprung up: and it held three thousand baths. 6. And he made ten caldrons, and set five on the right hand, and five on the left, to wash in them the things of the burnt offering, that they should pour them in; and the sea for the priests to wash in. 7. He made also ten candlesticks of gold, as they should be, and set them in the temple, five on the right hand, and five on the left. 8. And he made ten tables, and put them in the temple, five on the right hand, and five on the left. And he made an hundred basins of gold. 9. He made also a court for the priests, and great bars, and doors in the bars; and overlaid the doors with brass. 10. And set the sea on the right corner toward the east southward. 11. And Huram made pots, and shovels, and basins. So Huram finished the work he did for King Solomon in the house of God, 12. Namely, the two pillars with the bellies and knops on the top of both pillars, and both coiled hoops to cover both bellies of the knops on the top of the pillars, 13. And the four hundred pomegranates upon the two coiled hoops; two bows of pomegranates upon each hoop, to cover both the bellies of the knobs that were upon the top of the pillars. 14. And he made the chairs, and the cauldrons upon the chairs. 15. And a sea, and twelve oxen under it; 16. And the pots, and the shovels, and the censers, and all the vessels thereof, did Huram-abif make unto king Solomon for the house of the LORD, of pure brass. 17. And in the coasts of Jordan the king cast them in thick earth, between Shukhoth and Zaredathah. 18. And Solomon made a great number of all these vessels, so that the weight of the brass was not to be searched out. 19. And Solomon made all the vessels of the house of God, the golden altar, and the table, and the shewbread thereon, 20. The candlesticks with their lamps of pure gold, to burn before the choir, as they ought; 21. And the flowers by the lamps, and the snows, were golden; all this was utter gold; 22. And the knives, and the basons, and the spoons, and the bowls, were all gold. And the door of the inner door of the holy of holies, and the door of the house of the temple, were of gold. Ch. 5, v. 1: Thus was all the work accomplished, which Solomon did in the house of the LORD. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 5 Dedication of the temple started. And Solomon brought in all that David his father had hallowed, silver, and gold, and all manner of vessels, and put them in the treasury of the house of God. 2. Then Solomon gathered all the elders of Israel, all the captains of the tribes, and the princes of the fathers of the children of Israel, unto Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which is Zion. 3. And all the men of Israel were gathered together unto the king at the feast, that is, in the seventh month. 4. And all the elders of Israel came. And the Levites lifted up the ark 5. And they brought them up, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the holy vessels that were in the tabernacle, and brought up the priests the Levites with them. 6. But king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel that were gathered unto him before the ark, sacrificed sheep and oxen, so much that no man could count nor reckon. 7. So the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD into their place, into the choir of the house, into the holy of holies, under the wings of the cherubims, 8. And the cherubims spread forth their wings over the place of the ark: and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof from above. 9. And the staves were so long, that the knobs thereof were seen from the ark that was before the choir; but they were not seen without. And it was there unto this day. 10. And there was nothing in the ark, save the two tables which Moses put therein in Horeb, when the LORD made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt. 11. And when the priests were gone out of the holy place (for all the priests that were present sanctified themselves, that even the ordinances were not kept), 12. And the Levites with all that were under Assaph, and Heman, and Jeduthun, and their children, and their brethren, clothed in linen, and singing with cymbals, and psalteries, and harps, stood toward the east of the altar: and with them an hundred and twenty priests blowing with trumpets. 13. And it was as if one sounded with a trumpet, and sang, as if one heard a voice, praising and thanking the LORD. And when the voice was lifted up with the trumpets, and with the cymbals, and with other instruments, and with the praises of the LORD, that he is good, and that his mercy endureth for ever, the house of the LORD was filled with a cloud, 14. That the priests could not stand to minister before the cloud: for the glory of the LORD filled the house of GOD. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 6 Dedication of the temple continued. 1. Then said Solomon, The LORD hath spoken to dwell in darkness. 2. For I have built thee an house for thy dwelling, and a tabernacle for thy everlasting habitation. 3. And the king turned his face, and blessed all the congregation of Israel: for all the congregation of Israel stood. 4. And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which spake by his mouth unto David my father, and filled it with his hand, saying: 5. Since the time that I brought my people up out of the land of Egypt, I have not chosen a city in all the tribes of Israel to build an house for my name, neither have I chosen a man to be ruler over my people Israel; 6. But Jerusalem have I chosen, that my name should be there; and David have I chosen, that he should be over my people Israel. 7. And it was in the mind of David my father to build an house unto the name of the LORD God of Israel, 8. And the LORD said unto David my father, Thou hast done well to think to build an house for my name. 9. Yet thou shalt not build the house: but thy son, which shall come out of thy loins, shall build the house for my name. 10. Now therefore the LORD hath confirmed his word which he spake: for I am risen up in the stead of David my father, and sit upon the throne of Israel, as the LORD spake, and have built an house unto the name of the LORD God of Israel, 11. And I have put therein the ark, wherein is the covenant of the LORD, which he made with the children of Israel. 12. And he stood before the altar of the LORD in the sight of all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands. 13. For Solomon had made a pulpit of brass, and set it in the midst of the bars, five cubits long and broad, and three cubits high: and he stood upon it, and bowed himself on his knees before all the congregation of Israel, and stretched forth his hands toward heaven. 14. And said, O LORD God of Israel, there is no God like unto thee, in heaven, or in earth; who keepest covenant and mercy unto thy servants that walk before thee with all their heart. 15. Thou hast kept that which thou spakest unto thy servant David my father; with thy mouth hast thou spoken it, and with thine hand hast thou performed it, as it is this day. 16. Now therefore, O LORD God of Israel, keep unto thy servant David my father that which thou hast spoken unto him, saying, There shall not fail thee a man before me to sit on the throne of Israel: but if thy children keep their way, to walk in my law, as thou hast walked before me. 17. Now therefore, O LORD God of Israel, let thy word come to pass, which thou hast spoken unto thy servant David. 18. For thinkest thou that God dwelleth with men upon the earth? Behold, the heavens and all the heavens cannot provide for thee: how then shall the house which I have built? 19. But turn, O LORD my God, unto the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplications, that thou mayest hear the supplication and the prayer which thy servant maketh before thee, 20. That thine eyes may be open upon this house day and night, upon the place where thou hast spoken thy name to set it; that thou mayest hear the prayer which thy servant shall make in this place. 21. Hear therefore the supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, which they shall make in this place: hear thou it from the place of thy dwelling from heaven, and when thou hearest it, be gracious. 22. If a man sin against his neighbour, and an oath be laid upon him, which he shall swear: and the oath shall be before thine altar in this house, 23. Then hear thou from heaven, and do justice unto thy servant, to recompense the wicked, and to give his way upon his head, and to justify the righteous, and to give him according to his righteousness. 24. When thy people Israel are smitten before their enemies, because they have sinned against thee, and are converted, and confess thy name, pray and make supplication before thee in this house, 25. Then hear thou from heaven, and be merciful to the sin of thy people Israel, and bring them again into the land which thou gavest them and their fathers. 26. When the heaven is shut up, that it rain not, because they have sinned against thee, and pray in this place, confessing thy name, and turning from their sins, because thou hast humbled them, 27. Then hear thou in heaven, and be merciful to the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, to teach them the good way wherein they should walk, and to rain upon thy land, which thou hast given to thy people to possess. 28. If there be a famine in the land, or pestilence, or drought, or blight, or locusts, or caterpillars; or if his enemy besiege his gates in the land, or any plague or disease: 29. Then whosoever shall ask or make supplication among all men, and among all thy people Israel, if any man feel his affliction or his pain, and spread out his hands unto this house, 30. Then hear thou from heaven, from thy dwelling place, and be gracious, and give to every man according to all his ways, by which thou knowest his heart (for thou only knowest the heart of the children of men), 31. That they may fear thee, and walk in thy ways all the days that they live in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers. 32. Though a stranger, which is not of thy people Israel, come from a far country for thy great name, and for thy mighty hand, and for thine outstretched arm, and pray unto this house, 33. Then hear thou from heaven, from thy dwelling place, and do according to all that he calleth unto thee, that all people of the earth may know thy name, and fear thee, as do thy people Israel, and know that this house which I have built is called by thy name. 34. When thy people go out to battle against their enemies by the way which thou shalt send them, and pray unto thee by the way of this city which thou hast chosen, and of the house which I have built for thy name, 35. Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication from heaven, and restore them to their right. 36. If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them up before their enemies, that they may carry them away captives into a far country, or into a near country, 37. And they turn in their hearts in the land wherein they are captives within, and turn and cry unto thee in the land of their captivity, and say: We have sinned, and transgressed, and been ungodly, 38. And they shall turn unto thee with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their captivity, where they are carried captive, and shall pray toward the way of their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, and toward the city which thou hast chosen, and toward the house which I have built for thy name, 39. Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication from heaven, from thy dwelling place, and restore them to their right, and have mercy on thy people which have sinned against thee. 40. Therefore, O my God, let your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayer in this place. 41. Therefore arise, O LORD God, to your rest, you and the ark of your power! Let your priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, and your saints rejoice in the good! 42. Thou, O LORD GOD, turn not away the face of thine anointed; remember the mercy promised to thy servant David. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 7 Dedication of the temple completed. 1. And it came to pass, when Solomon had prayed, that fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and other sacrifices. And the glory of the LORD filled the house, 2. That the priests could not enter into the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD filled the LORD'S house. 3. And all the children of Israel saw the fire come down, and the glory of the LORD upon the house, and fell on their knees with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and gave thanks unto the LORD, because he is good, and his mercy endureth for ever. 4. And the king and all the people offered sacrifices before the LORD. 5. For king Solomon offered twenty and two thousand oxen, and an hundred and twenty thousand sheep: and they dedicated the house of God, both the king, and all the people. 6. And the priests stood in their guard, and the Levites with the instruments of the LORD, which David the king had made to thank the LORD for his mercy for ever, with the psalms of David by their hand: and the priests blew the trumpets against them, and all Israel stood. 7. And Solomon sanctified the middle court, which was before the house of the LORD: for there he had offered burnt offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings. For the brasen altar which Solomon had made could not bear all the burnt offerings, and the meat offerings, and the fat. 8. And Solomon kept a feast at that time seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great congregation, from Hemath even unto the river of Egypt. 9. And on the eighth day they held an assembly: for they kept the dedication of the altar seven days, and the feast also seven days. 10. And on the three and twentieth day of the seventh month he sent the people into their tents rejoicing and in good cheer for all the good that the LORD had done for David, Solomon, and his people Israel. 11. So Solomon finished the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all that came into his heart to make blessed the house of the LORD, and his house. 12. And the LORD appeared unto Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place for me to sacrifice in. 13. Behold, if I shut up the heavens, that there be no rain, or let the locusts devour the land, or let a pestilence come among my people, 14. That they may humble my people, which are called by my name, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; and I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 15. Let mine eyes therefore be open, and mine ears attentive unto prayer in this place. 16. I have therefore chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: mine eyes and mine heart shall be there for ever. 17. And if thou wilt walk before me, as David thy father walked, to do all that I command thee, and to keep my commandments and my statutes, 18. Then will I confirm the throne of thy kingdom, as I joined myself unto David thy father, saying, There shall not fail thee a man to rule over Israel. 19. But if ye will return, and forsake my statutes and my commandments, which I have set before you, and go and serve other gods, and worship them, ye shall be ashamed, 20. And I will root them up out of my land, which I have given them: and this house, which I have hallowed for my name, will I cast out of my sight, and will make it a proverb, and a fable among all people. 21. And before this house, which is become the highest, all they that pass by shall be astonished, saying, Why hath the LORD thus gone with this land, and with this house? 22. And it shall be said, Because they have forsaken the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them up out of the land of Egypt, and have embraced other gods, and worshipped them, and served them; therefore hath he brought all this evil upon them. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 8 Solomon's city building, rule, sacrifice, and ships. 1. And after twenty years, in the which Solomon built the house of the LORD, and his house, 2. He also built the cities which Huram gave to Solomon, and made the children of Israel to dwell therein. 3. And Solomon went to Hemath-zobah, and fortified it; 4. And he built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the cities of corn which he built in Hemath. 5. And he built Upper Bethhoron and Lower Bethhoron, which were strong cities, with walls, and doors, and bars, 6. And Baelath, and all the corn cities that Solomon had, and all the chariot cities, and all the horsemen, and all that Solomon desired to build, both at Jerusalem, and in Lebanon, and throughout all the land of his dominion. 7. All the rest of the people of the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, which were not of the children of Israel, 8. And their children which they left behind them in the land, whom the children of Israel had not destroyed, Solomon made to pay interest unto this day. 9. But of the children of Israel Solomon made not servants for his work, but they were men of war, and over his princes, and over his chariots, and over his horsemen. 10. And of the chief officers of king Solomon were two hundred and fifty, which ruled over the people. 11. And Solomon brought up Pharaoh's daughter out of the city of David into the house which he had built for her. For he said, My wife shall not dwell with me in the house of David king of Israel: for it is holy, because the ark of the LORD is come therein. 12. From that time Solomon offered burnt offerings unto the LORD upon the altar of the LORD, which he had built before the hall, 13. To offer every one of them upon his day, according to the commandment of Moses, upon the sabbaths, and upon the new moons, and upon the appointed times of the year, three times, even upon the feast of unleavened bread, and upon the feast of weeks, and upon the feast of tabernacles. 14. And he set the priests in their charge, according to the order of David his father; and the Levites in their charge, to praise and to minister before the priests, every one in his day; and the porters in their charge, every one in his gate. For so David the man of God commanded. 15. And there was no departure from the king's commandment concerning the priests and the Levites in all things, and in the treasures. 16. Thus was all Solomon's work prepared from the day that the house of the LORD was founded, until he had finished it, that the house of the LORD was fully prepared. 17. And Solomon went to Ezeongeber, and to Eloth by the sea side in the land of Edomaea. 18. And Huram sent him ships by his servants that knew the sea, and they went with the servants of Solomon to Ophir, and fetched thence four hundred and fifty talents of gold, and brought it to king Solomon. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 9 Solomon gifted by the queen from Arabia, has a large income. 1. And when the queen of Arabia heard the report of Solomon, she came to Jerusalem with a very great witness, with camels laden with spices, and with gold, and with precious stones, to tempt Solomon with riddles. And when she came to Solomon, she spake unto him all things that she had purposed. 2. And the king told her all that she asked, and there was nothing hid from Solomon that he told her not. 3. And when the queen of Arabia saw the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built, 4. The meat for his table, the tabernacle for his servants, the offices of his servants, and their garments, his vessels with their apparel, and his hall, when they went up to the house of the LORD, they could not abstain, 5. And she said unto the king: It is true what I have heard in my land of thy nature and of thy wisdom. 6. But I would not believe their words, till I came, and saw with mine own eyes. And, behold, I have not been told the half of thy great wisdom. There is more in thee than the rumour that I have heard. 7. Blessed are thy men, and blessed are these thy servants, which stand before thee continually, and hear thy wisdom. 8. Blessed be the LORD thy God, which loveth thee, that he hath set thee on his throne to be king over the LORD thy God. Because thy God loveth Israel, to establish him for ever, he hath made thee king over them, to do justice and righteousness. 9. And she gave unto the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and very much spices, and precious stones. There were no spices but these which the queen of Arabia gave to king Solomon. 10. And the servants of Huram, and the servants of Solomon, which brought gold out of Ophir, they brought also ebony and precious stones. 11. And Solomon made of ebony stairs in the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and harps, and psalteries for the singers. Such woods were never seen before in the land of Judah. 12. And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all that she desired and asked, without that she had brought unto the king. And she turned, and went into her land with her servants. 13. And the gold that was brought unto Solomon in one year was six hundred threescore and six talents, 14. Without what the merchants and the traders brought. And all the kings of the Arabians, and the lords of the countries, brought gold and silver unto Solomon. 15. Therefore king Solomon made two hundred shields of the best gold, so that there were six hundred pieces of gold upon one shield, 16. And three hundred tartars of the best gold, that three hundred pieces of gold came to one tartar. 17. And the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon. And the king made a great ivory chair, and overlaid it with pure gold. 18. And the throne had six steps, and a footstool of gold by the throne, and two rests on either side about the buttocks; and two lions stood by the rests, 19. And twelve lions stood there upon the six steps on either side. Such a thing is not made in all kingdoms. 20. And all the drinking vessels of king Solomon were of gold: and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were pure gold. For the silver was not counted in the days of Solomon. 21. For the king's ships sailed upon the sea with the servants of Huram, and came once in three years, bringing gold, and silver, and ivory, and apes, and peacocks. 22. So king Solomon was greater than all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. 23. And all the kings of the earth desired the face of Solomon to hear his wisdom, which God had put in his heart. 24. And they brought him every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, and armour, and spices, and horses, and mouths yearly. 25. And Solomon had four thousand chariot horses, and twelve thousand horsemen; and they put them in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem. 26. And he was lord over all kings from the sea even unto the land of the Philistines, and unto the border of Egypt. 27. And the king made Jerusalem as much silver as stones, and as much cedar, and as many mulberry trees in the valley. 28. And they brought him horses out of Egypt, and out of all countries. 29. And the rest of the acts of Solomon, both the first and the last, behold, they are written in the book of the chronicles of Nathan the prophet, and in the prophecies of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Jeddi the Shower against Jeroboam the son of Nebat. 30. And Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel forty years. 31. And Solomon slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David his father. And Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 10 Separation of the kingdom and apostasy of the ten tribes, caused by Rehoboam. 1. And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king. 2. And when Jeroboam the son of Nebat heard it, which was in Egypt, whither he fled before king Solomon, he came again out of Egypt. 3. And they sent and called him. And Jeroboam came with all Israel, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying: 4. Thy father hath made our yoke too hard. Lighten therefore the hard service of thy father, and the heavy yoke which he hath laid upon us; and we will be servants unto thee. 5. And he said unto them: About three days come again unto me. And the people went. 6. And king Rehoboam consulted the elders that stood before Solomon his father, when he was alive, saying, How counsel ye that I should answer this people? 7. And they spake unto him, saying: If thou wilt be kind unto this people, and wilt deal kindly with them, and wilt speak good words unto them, they will be servants unto thee alway. 8. And he left the counsel of the elders, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were brought up with him, and that sat before him, 9. And said unto them: What counsel ye, that we should answer this people, which have spoken unto me, saying, Lighten the yoke which thy father hath put upon us? 10. And the young men that were brought up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou say unto the people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke too heavy; make thou our yoke lighter; and say unto them: My least finger shall be thicker than my father's loins. 11. If therefore my father hath put too heavy a yoke upon you, I will make more of your yoke. My father chastised you with whips, but I with scorpions. 12. And it came to pass, when Jeroboam and all the people were come to Rehoboam the third day, as the king had said, Come again to me the third day, 13. And the king answered them sternly. And king Rehoboam left the council of the elders 14. And he spake unto them after the counsel of the young men, saying, If my father hath made your yoke too heavy, I will make it more so. My father chastised you with whips, but I with scorpions. 15. So the king hearkened not unto the people. For it was so wrought of God, that the LORD might confirm his word, which he spake by Ahijah of Shiloh unto Jeroboam the son of Nebat. 16. And when all Israel saw that the king hearkened not unto them, the people answered the king, and said, What have we part in David, or inheritance in the son of Jesse? Every man of Israel to his tent. Now therefore see thou to thy house, O David. And all Israel went into their tents, 17. That Rehoboam reigned only over the children of Israel, which dwelt in the cities of Judah. 18. And king Rehoboam sent Hadoram the chamberlain, and the children of Israel stoned him to death. And king Rehoboam mounted up his chariot, and fled to Jerusalem. 19. So Israel fell away from the house of David unto this day. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 11 Rehoboam's readiness for war, cities, confirmation, wives and children. 1. And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered together the house of Judah and Benjamin, an hundred and fourscore thousand young men that were valiant, to fight against Israel, to restore the kingdom to Rehoboam. 2. And the word of the LORD came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying: 3. Tell Rehoboam the son of Solomon, king of Judah, and all Israel that is under Judah and Benjamin, saying: 4. Thus saith the LORD; Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren: return every man to his house: for this is done of me. And they hearkened unto the words of the LORD, and desisted from going up against Jeroboam. 5. And Rehoboam dwelt at Jerusalem, and strengthened the cities of Judah, 6. Namely: Bethlehem, Etam, Thekoa, 7. Beth-Zur, Socho, Adullam, 8. gath, maresa, siph, 9. Adoraim, Lachis, Aseka, 10. Zareah, and Ajalon, and Hebron, which were the strongest cities in Judah and Benjamin. 11. And he made them strong, and set princes therein, and store of meat, and oil, and wine. 12. And in all the cities he made shields and spears, and made them very strong. And Judah and Benjamin were under him. 13. And the priests and the Levites came unto him out of all Israel, and out of all the coasts thereof. 14. And they left their suburbs and their substance, and came to Judah to Jerusalem. For Jeroboam and his sons cast them off, that they should not minister unto the LORD. 15. And he ordained him priests unto the high places, and to the devils of the field, and to the calves which he made. 16. And after them came out of all the tribes of Israel that gave their hearts to inquire of the LORD God of Israel unto Jerusalem, to sacrifice unto the LORD God of their fathers. 17. And they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and confirmed Rehoboam the son of Solomon three years. For they walked in the way of David and Solomon three years. 18. And Rehoboam took Mahelath the daughter of Jerimoth the son of David to wife, and Abihail the daughter of Eliab the son of Jesse. 19. And she bare him these sons, Jeus, and Shemariah, and Saham. 20. After whom he took Maechah the daughter of Absalom; and she bare him Abijah, and Athai, and Ziza, and Selomith. 21. But Rehoboam loved Maechah the daughter of Absalom better than all his wives and concubines: for he had eighteen wives, and threescore concubines; and begat twenty and eight sons, and threescore daughters. 22. And Rehoboam made Abijah the son of Maechah chief and ruler among his brethren: for he purposed to make him king. 23. And he increased and brake forth before all his sons in the land of Judah and Benjamin in all the strong cities: and he fed them with multitude, and took many wives; (2 Chronicles) Chapter 12 Rehabeam is getting the better of Sisak. 1. And when the kingdom of Rehoboam was confirmed and established, he forsook the law of the LORD, and all Israel with him. 2. And in the fifth year of king Rehoboam came up Sishak king of Egypt against Jerusalem, because they had sinned against the LORD. 3. With a thousand and two hundred chariots, and with threescore thousand horsemen: and the people were not to be numbered that came with him out of Egypt, and Libya, and Shushim, and the Moors; 4. And he took the strong cities that were in Judah, and came as far as Jerusalem. 5. And Shemaiah the prophet came to Rehoboam, and to the princes of Judah that were gathered together to Jerusalem before Sishak, and said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have forsaken me; therefore have I also forsaken you in the hand of Sishak. 6. Then the princes of Israel humbled themselves with the king, and said: The LORD is righteous. 7. And when the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came unto Shemaiah, saying, They have humbled themselves: therefore will I not destroy them, but I will give them a little salvation, that my wrath be not poured out upon Jerusalem through Sishak. 8. But they shall be subject unto him, that they may know what it is to serve me, and to serve the kingdoms of the countries. 9. So Shishak king of Egypt went up to Jerusalem, and took the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house, and took them all away, and dipped the shields of gold which Solomon had made. 10. In whose stead king Rehoboam made shields of brass, and commanded them to be made for the captains of the guard, which kept the door of the king's house. 11. And as often as the king went into the house of the LORD, the porters came and bare them, and brought them again into the porters' chamber. 12. And because he humbled himself, the wrath of the LORD turned from him, that all things were not destroyed. For there was still some good in Judah. 13. So Rehoboam the king was confirmed in Jerusalem, and reigned. Forty and one years old was Rehoboam when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, in the city which the LORD had chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, to put his name there. His mother's name was Naema, an Ammonite woman. 14. And he dealt wickedly, and sent not his heart to seek the LORD. 15. And the acts of Rehoboam, both the first and the last, are written in the book of the acts of Shemaiah the prophet, and in the book of the acts of Iddo the watcher, and are written, and the acts of the wars of Rehoboam and Jeroboam, all the days of their life. 16. And Rehoboam slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David. And Abijah his son reigned in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 13 Abias king in Judah, war and victory against Jeroboam king in Israel. 1. In the eighteenth year of Jeroboam the king, Abijah reigned in Judah. 2. And he reigned three years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Micaiah, the daughter of Uriel the Gibeahite. And there was a controversy between Abijah and Jeroboam. 3. And Abijah prepared himself to battle with four hundred thousand young men, strong men of war. And Jeroboam armed himself to battle with him, with eight hundred thousand strong men. 4. And Abijah went up into mount Zemaraim, which is in mount Ephraim, and said, Hear me, O Jeroboam, and all Israel. 5. Know ye not that the LORD God of Israel hath given the kingdom to David for ever, to him and to his sons a covenant of salt? 6. And Jeroboam the son of Nebat, the servant of Solomon the son of David, rose up, and turned away from his master. 7. And the people and the children of Belial came up against him, and strengthened themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon. For Rehoboam was young, and of a foolish heart, that he resisted them not. 8. Now think ye to set yourselves against the kingdom of the LORD among the sons of David, because ye are a great multitude; and ye have calves of gold, which Jeroboam made unto you for gods. 9. Have ye not cast out the priests of the LORD, the children of Aaron, and the Levites, and made you your own priests, as the nations of the earth? He that cometh to fill his hand with a young bullock and seven rams, the same shall be the priest of them that are no gods. 10. But with us is the LORD our God, whom we will not forsake; and the priests that minister unto the LORD, the sons of Aaron, and the Levites, in their business, 11. And burn incense unto the LORD every morning, and every evening, and the good incense, and the bread prepared upon a clean table, and the candlestick of gold, and the lamps thereof, to be burned every evening. For we keep the charge of the LORD our God, but ye have forsaken him. 12. Behold, with us at the head is God, and his priests, and the trumpets to sound the trumpet against you. Ye children of Israel, fight not against the LORD God of your fathers: for ye shall not prosper. 13. But Jeroboam set an ambush round about, to come upon them from behind: and they were before Judah, and the ambush was behind them. 14. And when Judah turned, behold, there was war in the front, and in the rear. And they cried unto the LORD, and the priests sounded with trumpets. 15. And all the people of Judah killed. And when all the people of Judah made a noise, God afflicted Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah. 16. And the children of Israel fled from Judah, and God delivered them into their hand, 17. And Abijah and his people did great slaughter against them, and slew of Israel five hundred thousand young men. 18. So the children of Israel were humbled at that time: but the children of Judah were comforted, because they trusted in the LORD God of their fathers. 19. And Abijah pursued after Jeroboam, and gained him cities: Bethel with her daughters, Jezana with her daughters, and Ephron with her daughters, 20. And Jeroboam had no more strength, because Abijah was alive. And the LORD afflicted him, that he died. 21. And when Abijah was strengthened, he took fourteen wives, and begat twenty and two sons and sixteen daughters. 22. And the rest of the acts of Abijah, and his ways, and his doings, are they not written in the book of the history of Iddo the prophet? Ch. 14:1. And Abijah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David: and Asa his son reigned in his stead. In those days the land was quiet ten years. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 14 Assa abolishes idolatry and triumphs against the Moors. 2. And Assa did that which was right, and acceptable unto the LORD his God. 3. And he took away the strange altars, and the high places, and brake down the pillars, and cut down the groves; 4. And told Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers, and to do according to the law and the commandment. 5. And he put away out of all the cities of Judah the high places and the idols. For the kingdom was quiet before him. 6. And he built strong cities in Judah, because the land was quiet, and there was no war against him in those years: for the LORD gave him rest. 7. And he said unto Judah, Let us build these cities, and let us build walls round about, and towers, and doors, and bars, because the land is yet before us: for we have sought the LORD our God, and he hath given us rest round about. So they built, and prospered. 8. And Asa had a host bearing shields and spears: out of Judah three hundred thousand, and out of Benjamin, bearing shields and bows, two hundred and fourscore thousand: and all these were mighty men of valour. 9. And Serah the Moor came out against them with a host a thousand thousand strong, and three hundred chariots: and they came as far as Mareshah. 10. And Asa went out against him, and they made ready for battle in the valley of Zephathah by Mareshah. 11. And Assa cried unto the LORD his God, saying, O LORD, there is no difference with thee, whether there be help among many, or whether there be no strength. Help us, O LORD our God: for we trust in thee, and in thy name are we come against this multitude. O LORD our God, against thee no man is able. 12. And the LORD afflicted the Moors before Asa, and before Judah, that they fled. 13. And Asa and the people that were with him pursued after them unto Gerar. And the Moors fell, and none of them lived: but they were smitten before the LORD, and before his camp. And they carried away much spoil. 14. And he smote all the cities that were round about Gerar: for the fear of the LORD was upon them. And they spoiled all the cities: for there was much spoil in them. 15. And they smote the tents of the cattle, and brought sheep in multitude, and camels: and they returned to Jerusalem. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 15 Assa continues in his church reformation. 1. And upon Azariah the son of Oded came the Spirit of GOD. 2. And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear me, O Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin. The LORD is with you, because ye are with him: and if ye seek him, he will be found of you: but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you also. 3. And there shall be many days in Israel, that there shall be no right God, neither priest to teach, neither law. 4. And if they turn in their affliction unto the LORD God of Israel, and shall seek him, he will be found. 5. In those days it shall not be well with him that goeth out, nor with him that cometh in. For there shall be great tumults upon all them that dwell upon the earth. 6. For nation shall smite nation, and city city: for God shall terrify them with all fear. 7. But be of good cheer, and do not cast off your hands: for the work of great price hath its reward. 8. And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet, he was confident, and put away the abominations out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities which he had gotten in mount Ephraim, and renewed the altar of the LORD, which was before the hall of the LORD. 9. And gathered all Judah and Benjamin, and the strangers that were with them out of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and Simeon. For the multitude fell upon him out of Israel, when they saw that the LORD his God was with him. 10. And they gathered themselves together unto Jerusalem the third month, in the fifteenth year of the kingdom of Asa, 11. And they sacrificed unto the LORD the same day of the spoil which they had brought, seven hundred oxen and seven thousand sheep. 12. And they entered into the covenant to seek the LORD God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul. 13. And whosoever would not seek the LORD God of Israel should die, both small and great, both man and woman. 14. And they sware unto the LORD with a loud voice, with sound, with trumpets and with trumpets. 15. And all Judah rejoiced at the oath: for they had sworn with all their heart, and they sought him with all their will, and he was found of them: and the LORD gave them rest round about. 16. And Asa the king deposed Maechah his mother from the office which she had set up in the grove of Miplezeth. And Assa cut off her Miplezeth, and destroyed it, and burned it in the brook Kidron. 17. But the high places of Israel were not removed: yet the heart of Asa was righteous all the days of his life. 18. And he brought into the house of God that which his father had hallowed, and that which he had hallowed, silver, and gold, and vessels. 19. And there was no controversy until the thirty and fifth year of the kingdom of Asa. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 16 Assa's triple fall from grace. 1. In the thirty and sixth year of the reign of Asa, Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah, and built Ramah, to hinder Asa king of Judah to go out and to come in. 2. And Assa took silver and gold out of the treasures of the house of the LORD, and out of the treasures of the king's house, and sent to Benhadad king of Syria, which dwelt at Damascus, and told him: 3. There is a covenant between me and thee, between my father and thy father: therefore have I sent thee silver and gold, that thou shouldest put away the covenant with Baasha king of Israel, that he should depart from me. 4. And Benhadad obeyed king Asa, and sent his princes against the cities of Israel; and they smote Eion, and Dan, and Abel-maim, and all the corn cities of Naphtali. 5. And when Baasha heard it, he left off building Ramah, and ceased from his work. 6. And king Asa took all Judah unto him, and they carried the stones and the timber from Ramah, that Baasha might build; and he built Geba and Mizpah therewith. 7. At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said unto him, Because thou hast trusted in the king of Syria, and hast not trusted in the LORD thy God, therefore the power of the king of Syria is escaped out of thine hand. 8. Were not the Moors and Libyans a great multitude, with many chariots and horsemen? But the LORD delivered them into thine hand, because thou trustedst in him. 9. For the eyes of the LORD behold all the earth, to strengthen them that are in him with all their heart. Thou hast done foolishly: therefore shalt thou have war henceforth. 10. And Assa was wroth with the seer, and put him in prison: for he murmured with him against this thing. And Assa oppressed some of the people at that time. 11. And the acts of Assa, both the first and the last, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. 12. And Assa was sick of his feet in the thirty and ninth year of his reign, and his sickness increased greatly: neither sought he the LORD in his sickness, but sought physicians. 13. So Assa slept with his fathers, and died in the forty and first year of his reign. 14. And they buried him in his sepulchre, which he had digged for him in the city of David. And they laid him in his bed, which was filled with good incense, and with all manner of spices made with the apothecary's skill, and made a very great burning. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 17 Jehoshaphat is blissful in his fear of God. 1. And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and was mighty against Israel. 2. And he put men of war in all the strong cities of Judah, and appointed officers in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Assa his father had gained. 3. And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat: for he walked in the former ways of David his father, and sought not Baalim, 4. But the God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the works of Israel. 5. Therefore the LORD confirmed the kingdom unto him, and all Judah gave gifts unto Jehoshaphat: and he had riches and honour abundantly. 6. And when his heart was bold in the ways of the LORD, he removed again the high places and the groves out of Judah. 7. In the third year of his kingdom he sent his princes Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethaneel, and Micaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah; 8. And with them the Levites, Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asael, and Shemiramoth, and Jonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobiah, and Tob-Adonijah; and with them the priests Elishama and Joram. 9. And they taught in Judah, having with them the book of the law of the LORD: and they went about all the cities of Judah, teaching the people. 10. And the fear of the LORD came upon all the kingdoms of the countries that were round about Judah, that they should not fight against Jehoshaphat. 11. And the Philistines brought gifts unto Jehoshaphat, a burden of silver. And the Arabians brought him seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats. 12. So Jehoshaphat increased, and waxed greater and greater; and he built castles and corn cities in Judah. 13. And had much store in the cities of Judah, and men of valour, and mighty men in Jerusalem. 14. And this was the order of the house of their fathers, which were in Judah over the thousand princes: Adnah, a chief, and with him were three hundred thousand mighty men. 15. Next unto him was Johanan the chief; and with him were two hundred and fourscore thousand. 16. And next unto him was Amasiah the son of Zichri, the volunteer of the LORD: and with him were two hundred thousand mighty men. 17. Of the children of Benjamin was Eliada, a mighty man; and with him were two hundred thousand armed with bows and shields. 18. And next unto him was Jozabad; and with him were an hundred and fourscore thousand armed for the army. 19. These were all waiting for the king, without any thing that the king had yet laid up in the strong cities throughout all Judah. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 18 Jehoshaphat's march with Ahab against the Syrians. 1. And Jehoshaphat had great riches and honour, and befriended Ahab. 2. And he went down to Ahab to Samaria in two years. And Ahab slew for him, and for the people that were with him, many sheep and oxen. And he persuaded him to go up to Ramoth in Gilead. 3. And Ahab king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat king of Judah, Go with me to Ramoth in Gilead. And he said unto him, I am as thou art, and my people as thy people: we will go with thee to battle. 4. And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Ask the word of the LORD this day. 5. And the king of Israel gathered the prophets four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall we go to Ramoth in Gilead to battle, or shall I leave it? And they said: Go up, and God will deliver them into the king's hand. 6. And Jehoshaphat said: Is there not yet a prophet of the LORD here, that we should inquire of him? 7. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet a man to inquire of the LORD of him: but I am displeased with him, because he knoweth me no good, but all evil; even Micaiah the son of Jemla. And Jehoshaphat said, The king speaketh not so. 8. And the king of Israel called one of his chamberlains, and said, Bring quickly Micaiah the son of Jemla. 9. And the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah sat every man in his seat clothed with garments: and they sat in the place before the door, at the gate of Samaria: and all the prophets prophesied before them. 10. And Zidekiah the son of Caenas made him horns of iron, and said, Thus saith the LORD, Herewith shalt thou push the Syrians, until thou destroy them. 11. And all the prophets also prophesied so, saying: Go up, and thou shalt prosper: the LORD shall deliver them into the hand of the king. 12. And the messenger that went to call Micaiah spake unto him, saying, Behold, the words of the prophets are good for the king with one accord: let thy word also be as one, and speak good. 13. And Micah said, As the LORD liveth, what my God shall say, that will I speak. 14. And when he was come to the king, the king said unto him, Micah, shall we go up to Ramoth in Gilead to battle, or shall I leave it? And he said, Yea, go up; ye shall prosper: it shall be given into your hand. 15. And the king said unto him, I charge thee again that thou tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the LORD. 16. And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the mountains, as sheep having no shepherd. And the LORD said, Have these no LORD? Let them return every one in peace. 17. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, Said I not unto thee, He knoweth me no good, but evil? 18. And he said, Therefore hear the word of the LORD; I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing on his right hand and on his left. 19. And the LORD said, Who shall persuade Ahab king of Israel to go up and fall at Ramoth in Gilead? And when this said so, and that said otherwise. 20. And a spirit came forth, and stood before the Lord, and said: I will persuade him. And the LORD said unto him, With what? 21. And he said: I will go forth, and be a false spirit in all his prophets' mouths. And he said, Thou shalt persuade him, and shalt perform it: go thou, and do so. 22. Now, behold, the LORD hath put a false spirit in the mouth of these thy prophets, and the LORD hath spoken evil against thee. 23. And Zidekiah the son of Caenas came near, and smote Micaiah on the beacon, and said, By what way hath the Spirit of the LORD departed from me, that he speaketh by thee? 24. And Micah said, Behold, thou shalt see, when thou comest into the innermost chamber, that thou shalt hide thyself. 25. And the king of Israel said, Take Micaiah, and let him dwell with Amon the governor, and with Joash the king's son, 26. And say, Thus saith the king, Put this man in prison, and feed him with bread and with water of affliction, until I come again in peace. 27. And Micah said, If thou return in peace, the LORD hath not spoken by me. And he said, Hear, all ye nations. 28. So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah went up to Ramoth in Gilead. 29. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, I will disguise myself, and come into battle: but thou hast thy garments on. And the king of Israel disguised himself, and they came to battle. 30. But the king of Syria had commanded his chief horsemen: Ye shall not fight against small nor against great, but against the king of Israel alone. 31. And when the chief horsemen saw Jehoshaphat, they thought it was the king of Israel, and went about to fight upon him. But Jehoshaphat cried out, and the LORD helped him, and God turned them away from him. 32. For when the chief horsemen saw that he was not the king of Israel, they turned away from him. 33. And a man drew his bow about, and shot the king of Israel between the armour and the hengel. And he said unto his charioteer, Turn thine hand, and bring me out of the army: for I am sore. 34. And the battle increased in the day. And the king of Israel stood in his chariot against the Syrians until the even, and died when the sun was down. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 19 Jehoshaphat punished by Jehu, orders the church and the secular regiment. 1. And Jehoshaphat king of Judah returned in peace unto Jerusalem. 2. And Jehu the son of Hanani the Shiverer went out to meet him, and said unto king Jehoshaphat, Shall thou thus help the wicked, and love them that hate the LORD? And because of this the wrath of the LORD is upon thee. 3. But there is good in thee, because thou hast cast out the groves from the land, and hast set thy heart to seek God. 4. So Jehoshaphat tarried at Jerusalem: and he went out again among the people from Beersheba unto mount Ephraim, and brought them again unto the LORD God of their fathers. 5. And he appointed judges in the land in all the strong cities of Judah, in every city some, 6. And said unto the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye hold judgment not unto men, but unto the LORD: and he is with you in judgment. 7. Therefore let the fear of the LORD be with you, and take heed, and do it: for with the LORD our God there is no unrighteousness, neither respect of persons, nor accepting of gifts. 8. Also Jehoshaphat appointed at Jerusalem of the Levites, and of the priests, and of the chief fathers of Israel, concerning the judgment of the LORD, and concerning the things, and made them to dwell at Jerusalem. 9. And commanded them, saying, Do ye thus in the fear of the LORD, faithfully, and with a right heart. 10. In all things that come unto you of your brethren which dwell in their cities, between blood and blood, between law and commandment, between customs and judgments, ye shall instruct them, that they be not guilty in the sight of the LORD, and that wrath come upon you and upon your brethren. So do unto him, and ye shall not be guilty. 11. Behold, Amariah the priest is ruler over you in all the things of the LORD. So is Zabadiah the son of Ishmael, ruler in the house of Judah, in all the king's matters. So you have officers, the Levites, before you. Be of good courage, and do it: and the LORD will be with the good. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 20 Jehoshaphat's victory against the Ammonites and Moabites. 1. After these things came the children of Moab, the children of Ammon, and with them of the Amunim, to fight against Jehoshaphat. 2. And they came and told Jehoshaphat, saying, There cometh against thee a great multitude from beyond the sea, from Syria: and, behold, they are at Hazezon-thamar, that is, Engeddi. 3. And Jehoshaphat was afraid, and set his face to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast among all Judah. 4. And Judah came together to seek the LORD; and there came out of all the cities of Judah to seek the LORD. 5. And Jehoshaphat stood among the congregation of Judah and Jerusalem in the house of the LORD before the new court. 6. And said, O LORD God of our fathers, art thou not God in heaven, and ruler in all the kingdoms of the heathen? And in thy hand is strength and might; and there is none that can stand against thee. 7. Hast thou not, our God, driven out the inhabitants of this land from thy people Israel, and given it unto the seed of Abraham thy lover for ever? 8. That they dwelt therein, and built thee a sanctuary for thy name therein, saying: 9. If any calamity, or sword, or punishment, or pestilence, or dearth, come upon us, shall we stand before this house before thee, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, that thou wouldest hear and help? 10. Now therefore, behold, the children of Ammon, and Moab, and those of mount Seir, over whom thou didst not let the children of Israel pass, when they came forth out of the land of Egypt, but departed from them, and did not destroy them. 11. And, behold, they reward us, and come to cut us off from thine inheritance, which thou hast given us. 12. Our God, wilt thou not judge them? For there is no strength in us against this great multitude that cometh against us. We know not what we should do, but our eyes look unto thee. 13. And all Judah stood before the LORD with their children, and their wives, and their sons. 14. And upon Jehaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jehiel, the son of Mathaniah, the Levite, of the children of Assaph, came the Spirit of the LORD in the midst of the congregation; 15: And said, Take heed, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and king Jehoshaphat. Thus saith the LORD unto you: Ye shall not fear nor be dismayed before this great multitude: for ye fight not, but GOD. 16. In the morning ye shall go down unto them: and, behold, they go up to Ziz, and ye shall meet with them by the reeds in the brook before the wilderness of Jeruel. 17. For ye shall not contend in this matter. Only go and stand, and see the salvation of the LORD, which is with you, Judah and Jerusalem. Fear not, neither be dismayed: to morrow go out against them: the LORD is with you. 18. Then Jehoshaphat bowed himself with his face to the earth: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the LORD, and worshipped the LORD. 19. And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites, rose up to praise the LORD God of Israel with a great shout toward heaven. 20. And they rose up early in the morning, and went out into the wilderness of Thekoa. And as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hearken unto me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem. Believe in the LORD your God, and ye shall be safe; and believe his prophets, and ye shall prosper. 21. And he instructed the people, and set the singers before the LORD, that they should praise in holy array, and sing before the scaffolded, and say: Give thanks unto the LORD: for his mercy endureth for ever. 22. And when they began to give thanks and to praise, the LORD sent the ambush that was come against Judah upon the children of Ammon, and upon Moab, and upon them of mount Seir, and smote them. 23. And the children of Ammon and Moab came against them of mount Seir, to utterly destroy them. And when they had consumed all the men of mount Seir, they helped one another, that they might destroy themselves also. 24. And when Judah was come to Mizpeh by the wilderness, they turned against the multitude: and, behold, there were dead bodies upon the ground, and none escaped. 25. And Jehoshaphat came with his people to divide their spoil, and found among them so much goods, and raiment, and precious things, and took them away, that they could not bear them: and they divided the spoil three days, because it was much. 26. And on the fourth day they came together unto the valley of praise: for there they praised the LORD. Therefore the name of the place is called the valley of praise unto this day. 27. So all the men of Judah and Jerusalem turned again, and Jehoshaphat in the head, that they might go up to Jerusalem with joy. For the LORD had given them joy in their enemies. 28. And they entered into Jerusalem with psalteries, and harps, and trumpets, unto the house of the LORD. 29. And the fear of God came upon all the kingdoms of the countries, when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel. 30. So the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was quieted, and God gave him rest round about. 31. And Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah, and was thirty and five years old when he began to reign, and reigned twenty and five years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Asuba, a daughter of Zilhi. 32. And he walked in the way of his father Asa, and departed not from doing that which was right in the sight of the LORD; 33. without the high places were not removed: for the people had not yet sent their hearts unto the God of their fathers. 34. And the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, both the first and the last, behold, they are written in the acts of Jehu the son of Hanani, which he wrote in the book of the kings of Israel. 35. And afterward Jehoshaphat king of Judah joined himself to Ahaziah king of Israel, who was wicked in his doings. 36. And he joined himself unto him to make ships to go out to sea: and they made the ships at Ezeon-gaber. 37. And Eliezer the son of Dodava, of Mareshah, prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because thou hast joined thyself to Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken down thy works. And the ships were broken, and they could not go into the sea. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 21 Joram's fratricide, idolatry, punishment, and miserable death. 1. And Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David: and Jehoram his son reigned in his stead. 2. And he had brethren the sons of Jehoshaphat, Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah: all these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Judah. 3. And their father gave them many gifts of silver, and gold, and jewels, with strong cities in Judah: but the kingdom he gave to Jehoram, because he was the firstborn. 4. And when Jehoram arose upon his father's kingdom, and was mighty in his power, he slew all his brethren with the sword, and certain of the princes of Israel. 5. Jehoram was thirty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem. 6. And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had done; for Ahab's daughter was his wife: and he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD. 7. But the LORD would not destroy the house of David, because of the covenant that he had made with David, and as he had spoken to give him a lamp, and to his children for ever. 8. In his days the Edomites fell away from Judah, and made a king over them. 9. For Jehoram had gone over with his captains, and all the chariots with him, and had risen up by night, and had smitten the Edomites round about him, and the captains of the chariots. 10. Therefore the Edomites fell away from Judah unto this day. At the same time Libnah also fell away from him. For he forsook the LORD God of his fathers. 11. He also made high places in the mountains of Judah, and made them that prostitute at Jerusalem, and deceived Judah. 12. And there came writing unto him of Elijah the prophet, saying, Thus saith the LORD God of David thy father, Because thou hast not walked in the way of Jehoshaphat thy father, nor in the way of Asa king of Judah, 13. But thou hast walked in the way of the kings of Israel, and hast made Judah and Jerusalem to whore after the whoredom of the house of Ahab, and hast slain thy brethren of thy father's house, which were better than thou, 14. Then shall the LORD smite thee with a great plague upon thy people, upon thy children, and upon thy wives, and upon all thy substance. 15. And thou shalt have much sickness in thy bowels, until thy bowels be filled with sickness from day to day. 16. So the LORD stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines and of the Arabians, which lie with the Moors; 17. And they went up into Judah, and rent them, and carried away all the substance of the king's house, and his sons, and his wives: and there remained no son unto him, save Jehoahaz his youngest son. 18. And after all this the LORD afflicted him in his bowels with such a disease as could not be healed. 19. And it came to pass from day to day, when the space of two years was expired, that his bowels departed from him with his sickness, and he died of evil diseases. And they made not a fire upon him, as they had done unto his fathers. 20. Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem, and walked that was not good. And they buried him in the city of David, but not among the kings' sepulchres. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 22 Ahaziah's downfall. Athaliah's murderous deed. 1. And they that were at Jerusalem made Ahaziah his youngest son king in his stead. For the men of war that came out of the Arabians with the host slew all the first: therefore Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah reigned. 2. Ahaziah was forty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Athaliah daughter of Amri. 3. And he walked also in the ways of the house of Ahab: for his mother held him to be ungodly. 4. Therefore he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as did the house of Ahab. For they were his counselors after his father's death, to destroy him. 5. And he walked after their counsel. And he went with Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel to battle to Ramoth in Gilead against Hazael king of Syria. And the Syrians smote Joram, 6. And he returned to be healed in Jezreel: for he had wounds smitten him in Ramah, when he fought with Hazael king of Syria. And Azariah the son of Jehoram king of Judah went down to see Jehoram the son of Ahab in Jezreel, which was sick. 7. For it was an evil thing of God for Ahaziah to come to Jehoram, and to go out with Jehoram against Jehu the son of Nimshi, whom the LORD had anointed to cut off the house of Ahab. 8. And when Jehu had punished the house of Ahab, he found certain of the princes of Judah, and the sons of Ahaziah's brethren that ministered unto Ahaziah, and slew them. 9. And he sought Ahaziah, and took him, when he was hid in Samaria. And he was brought to Jehu, and he slew him, and they buried him. For they said: He is Jehoshaphat's son, who sought the LORD with all his heart. And there was none left of the house of Ahaziah to reign. 10. And when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal seed of the house of Judah. 11. And Jehosabeath the king's sister took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's children that were slain, and put him in a chamber with his nurse. So Jehosabeath the daughter of king Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest (for she was Ahaziah's sister), hid him from Athaliah, that he was not slain. 12. And he was hid with them in the house of God six years, because Athaliah was queen of the land. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 23 Jehoiada anoints Joash king. Athaliah is killed. Baal destroyed. 1. But in the seventh year Jehoiada took courage, and took the captains over an hundred, Azariah the son of Jeroham, Ishmael the son of Johanan, Azariah the son of Obed, Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri, to be covenant with him. 2. And they went about Judah, and brought the Levites by multitude out of all the cities of Judah, and the chief fathers of Israel, to come to Jerusalem. 3. And all the congregation made a covenant in the house of God with the king. And he said unto them, Behold, the king's son shall be king, as the LORD hath spoken concerning the children of David. 4. Now therefore do ye this thing: your third part, which are of the sabbath, shall be among the priests and the Levites, which are porters at the door, 5. And the third part in the king's house, and the third part at the gate of the foundation: but all the people shall be in the court of the house of the LORD. 6. And that no man enter into the house of the LORD, save the priests and the Levites that minister therein: they shall enter in, because they are sanctuaries: and all the people shall wait upon the guard of the LORD. 7. And the Levites shall compass the king round about, every man with his guard in his hand. And whosoever entereth into the house, let him be put to death. And they shall be with the king when he goeth out and when he cometh in. 8. And the Levites and all Judah did as Jehoiada the priest commanded, and took every man his men that came in on the sabbath day with them that came out on the sabbath day. For Jehoiada the priest did not let the two companies come apart. 9. And Jehoiada the priest gave unto the princes about an hundred spears, and shields, and weapons of king David, which were in the house of GOD. 10. And all the people, every man with his weapons in his hand, stood before the right corner of the house unto the left corner, toward the altar, and toward the house westward, round about the king. 11. And they brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and the testimony, and made him king. And Jehoiada and his sons anointed him, and said: Happy birthday to the king! 12. And when Athaliah heard the cry of the people that ran and praised the king, she went unto the people that were in the house of the LORD. 13. And she looked, and, behold, the king stood in his place in the entry, and the princes and drummers about the king: and all the people of the land were glad, and blew the trumpets, and the singers with all manner of strings, sent to praise. Then she rent her clothes, and said, Riot, riot! 14. And Jehoiada the priest came out with the captains of hundreds that were over the host, and said unto them: Bring her out from the house beyond the court; and whosoever followeth her, let him be put to death with the sword. For the priest had commanded that they should not be slain in the house of the LORD. 15. And they laid hands on her; and when she was come to the entering in of the horse gate of the king's house, they slew her there. 16. And Jehoiada made a covenant between him, and all the people, and the king, that they should be the LORD'S people. 17. And all the people went into the house of Baal, and brake it down, and brake down his altars and his images, and slew Mathan the priest of Baal before the altars. 18. And Jehoiada appointed the offices of the house of the LORD among the priests and the Levites, whom David had ordained for the house of the LORD, to offer burnt offerings unto the LORD, as it is written in the law of Moses, with gladness and with songs, which David made up. 19. And he put porters in the gates of the house of the LORD, that nothing unclean should enter in by any means. 20. And he took the captains of hundreds, and the mighty men, and the lords of the people, and all the people of the land, and brought the king down from the house of the LORD, and brought him through the high gate of the king's house, and set the king upon the royal throne. 21. And all the people of the land were glad, and the city was quiet: but Athaliah was slain with the sword. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 24 Joas laudable deeds, idolatry; punishment and death. 1. Joash was seven years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Zibiah of Beersheba. 2. And Joash did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, all the days of Jehoiada the priest. 3. And Jehoiada gave him two wives; and he begat sons and daughters. 4. After this Joash undertook to renew the house of the LORD. 5. And he gathered the priests and the Levites together, and said unto them: Go out to all the cities of Judah, and gather money out of all Israel to repair the house of your God yearly; and make haste to do so. But the Levites made no haste. 6. And the king called Jehoiada the chief, and said unto him, Why hast thou not taken heed to the Levites, that they bring in of Judah and Jerusalem the tax which Moses the servant of the LORD set, which were gathered together of Israel unto the tabernacle of the congregation? 7. For the wicked Athaliah and her sons have broken up the house of God, and have given all that was sanctified for the house of the LORD unto Baalim. 8. Then the king commanded that an ark should be made, and that it should be set without in the to of the house of the LORD. 9. And he sent a proclamation in Judah and in Jerusalem, that the tax of Moses the servant of God, which was laid upon Israel in the wilderness, should be brought unto the LORD. 10. And all the princes and all the people rejoiced, and brought it, and cast it into the ark, until it was full. 11. And it came to pass, when it was time for the ark to be brought in by the Levites, according to the king's commandment, when they saw that there was much money in it, that the king's scribe, and he that was commanded of the chief priest, came and emptied the ark, and carried it again to his place. And they did so every day, and brought the money in abundance. 12. And the king and Jehoiada gave it to the workmen that wrought in the house of the LORD; and they hired stonemasons and carpenters to repair the house of the LORD; and to the masters of iron and brass to repair the house of the LORD. 13. And the workmen laboured, that the improvement of the work might be increased by their hand: and they made the house of God wholly ready, and well furnished, and made it strong. 14. And when they had finished, they brought the rest of the money before the king and Jehoiada, and made vessels of it for the house of the LORD, vessels for the service, and for burnt offerings, spoons, and vessels of gold and silver. And they offered burnt offerings in the house of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada. 15. And Jehoiada waxed old, and was full of life, and died; and was an hundred and thirty years old when he died. 16. And they buried him in the city of David among the kings, because he had done good in Israel, and in God, and in his house. 17. And after the death of Jehoiada the princes of Judah came and worshipped the king: and the king obeyed them. 18. And they forsook the house of the LORD God of their fathers, and served the groves and idols. And wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem for this trespass of theirs. 19. And he sent prophets unto them, that they should turn unto the LORD: and they testified unto them; but they gave no ear. 20. And the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest. And he stood over the people, and said unto them, Thus saith God. GOD: Why transgress ye the commandments of the LORD, that ye shall not prosper? For ye have forsaken the LORD, and he will forsake you again. 21. But they made a covenant against him, and stoned him according to the king's commandment in the court of the house of the LORD. 22. And king Jehoash remembered not the mercy that Jehoiada his father had done unto him, but slew his son. And when he was dead, he said, The LORD will see and seek it. 23. And it came to pass, when the year was expired, that the host of the Syrians went up, and came to Judah and Jerusalem, and destroyed all the princes of the people, and sent all their spoil unto the king of Damascus. 24. For the power of the Syrians was with few men, and the LORD delivered into their hand a very great power, because they had forsaken the LORD God of their fathers. And they punished Joash also. 25. And when they departed from him, they left him in great sickness. And his servants made a league against him for the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and slew him upon his bed; and he died. And they buried him in the city of David, but not among the kings' tombs. 26. And they that made the covenant against him were these: Zabad the son of Shimeath the Ammonite, and Jozabad the son of Shimrith the Moabitess. 27. But his sons, and the company that was gathered under him, and the building of the house of God, behold, they are written in the book of the kings. And Amaziah his son was king in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 25 Government of Amaziah king of Judah. 1. Amaziah was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Joadan of Jerusalem. 2. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, but not with all his heart. 3. And when his kingdom was confirmed, he slew his servants that smote the king his father. 4. But their children he slew not. For thus it is written in the law, in the book of Moses, where the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not die for the children, nor the children for the fathers; but every man shall die for his sin. 5. And Amaziah brought Judah in multitude, and numbered them according to the house of the fathers, according to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, throughout all Judah and Benjamin; and numbered them from twenty years old and upward, and found them three hundred thousand chosen, that might go forth into the army, to bear spear and shield. 6. And he took from Israel an hundred thousand mighty men of war for an hundred talents of silver. 7. And there came a man of God unto him, and said, King, let not the host of Israel come with thee: for the LORD is not with Israel, nor with all the children of Ephraim. 8. For if thou comest to show boldness in the battle, God will cause thee to fall before thine enemies. For with God is the power to help and to let fall. 9. And Amaziah said unto the man of God. What shall we do with the hundred talents which I have given to the soldiers of Israel? And the man of God said, The LORD hath more than this to give thee. 10. Then Amaziah separated the soldiers that were come to him out of Ephraim, and they went into their own place. And their anger was kindled against Judah, and they returned to their place with fierce wrath. 11. And he was confident, and brought forth his people, and went out into the valley of salt, and smote ten thousand of the children of Seir. 12. And the children of Judah took ten thousand of them alive, and brought them to the top of a rock, and cast them down from the top of the rock, and brake them all in pieces. 13. And the soldiers, which Amaziah had sent again, that they should not go out to battle with his people, pitched in the cities of Judah, from Samaria even unto Bethhoron, and slew three thousand of them, and took much spoil. 14. And when Amaziah was come again from the battle of Edom, he brought the gods of the children of Seir, and set them for gods unto him; and worshipped before them, and burned incense unto them. 15. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Amaziah, and he sent a prophet unto him, saying, Why seekest thou the gods of the people, which could not deliver their people out of thine hand? 16. And when he had spoken unto him, he said unto him, Hast thou been made the king's counsellor? Stop, why wilt thou be smitten? Then the prophet ceased, and said: I perceive that God hath consulted to destroy thee, that thou hast done this thing, and hast not hearkened unto my counsel. 17. And Amaziah king of Judah took counsel, and sent to Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu king of Israel, saying, Come, and let us see one another. 18. And Joash king of Israel sent unto Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The briar of Lebanon sent unto the cedar of Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife: but the wild beast of Lebanon ran upon the briar, and brake it in pieces. 19. Thou rememberest, Behold, I have smitten the Edomites: thine heart is lifted up, and thou seekest glory. Now tarry thou at home. Why wilt thou strive for evil, that thou shouldest fall, and Judah with thee? 20. But Amaziah hearkened not: for it came to pass of God that they were given into hand, because they had sought the gods of Edom. 21. And Joash king of Israel went up, and looked together, he and Amaziah king of Judah, at Bethshemesh, which is in Judah. 22. And Judah was smitten before Israel, and fled every man to his tent. 23. And Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Jehoash, Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz king of Israel, took Bethshemesh, and brought him to Jerusalem, and brake down the walls of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim unto the corner gate four hundred cubits. 24. And all the gold, and the silver, and all the vessels that were in the house of God with Obededom, and in the treasures of the king's house, and the children that were in bond, he took with him to Samaria. 25. And Amaziah the son of Jehoash king of Judah lived after the death of Jehoahaz the son of Jehoahaz king of Israel fifteen years. 26. And the rest of the acts of Amaziah, both the first and the last, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. 27. And from the time that Amaziah departed from the LORD, they made a league against him at Jerusalem: and he fled to Lachish. And they sent after him to Lachish, and slew him there. 28. And they brought him on horses, and buried him with his fathers in the city of Judah. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 26 Uzzah fumigates and becomes leprous. 1. And all the people of Judah took Uzziah, which was sixteen years old, and made him king in Amaziah his father's stead. 2. And he built Eloth, and brought it again to Judah, after that the king had fallen asleep with his fathers. 3. Uzziah was sixteen years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and two years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jechaliah of Jerusalem. 4. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, as Amaziah his father had done. 5. And he sought God as long as Zechariah lived, the teacher in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God prospered him. 6. For he went out and fought against the Philistines, and brake down the walls of Gath, and the walls of Jabne, and the walls of Ashdod, and built cities about Ashdod, and among the Philistines. 7. For God helped him against the Philistines, against the Arabians, against those of Gur-baal, and against the Meunites. 8. And the Ammonites gave gifts unto Uzziah, and he was renowned until they came into Egypt: for he waxed stronger and stronger. 9. And Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the corner gate, and at the valley gate, and at the other corners, and fortified them. 10. He also built castles in the wilderness, and digged many wells; for he had much cattle, both in the meadows and in the plains; also husbandmen and husbandwomen in the mountains and in Carmel; for he delighted in husbandry. 11. And Uzziah had a force to battle, which went into the army, of soldiers counted in number, under the hand of Jeiel the scribe, and Maaseiah the officer, under the hand of Hananiah, of the king's captains. 12. And the number of the chief fathers among the mighty men of war was two thousand and six hundred. 13. And under their hand the host sent three hundred thousand, and seven thousand, and five hundred, to battle in force, to help the king against the enemy. 14. And Uzziah sent them for all the host shields, and spears, and helmets, and breastplates, and bows, and sling-stones. 15. And he made breastworks artificially in Jerusalem, to be on the towers and on the corners, to be shot with arrows and great stones. And the fame of him went abroad, and he was greatly helped, until he became mighty. 16. And when he had become mighty, he lifted up his heart to his destruction. For he trespassed against the LORD his God, and entered into the temple of the LORD, to burn incense upon the altar of incense. 17. And Azariah the priest went after him, and eighty priests of the LORD with him, men of integrity, 18. And they rebuked Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It is not for thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the LORD, but for the priests the sons of Aaron, which are sanctified to burn incense. Get thee out of the sanctuary, for thou hast transgressed: and it shall not be honour unto thee in the sight of GOD the LORD. 19. And Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand. And when he murmured with the priests, leprosy came out in his forehead before the priests in the house of the LORD before the altar of incense. 20. And Azariah the chief priest turned his head toward him, and all the priests; and, behold, he was leprous in his forehead: and they cast him out from thence. And he himself hasted to go out, because his plague was from the LORD. 21. So Uzziah the king was a leper unto his death, and dwelt in a leper house: for he was cast out of the house of the LORD. And Jotham his son stood before the king's house, and judged the people of the land. 22. And the rest of the acts of Uzziah, both the first and the last, are described by Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz. 23. And Uzziah slept with his fathers, and they buried him with his fathers in the field by the burying of the kings: for they said: He is a leper. And Jotham his son reigned in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 27 Jotham makes the Ammonites interestable. 1. Jotham was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jerusa, a daughter of Zadok. 2. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, as Uzziah his father had done, not going into the temple of the LORD, nor corrupting the people. 3. He built the high gate of the house of the LORD, and the wall of Ophel he built much. 4. And he built cities in the mountains of Judah, and in the forests he built castles and towers. 5. And he fought with the king of the children of Ammon, and was mighty over them: and the children of Ammon gave him the same year an hundred talents of silver, and ten thousand measures of wheat, and ten thousand of barley. And the children of Ammon gave him the same in the second year, and in the third year. 6. So Jotham was mighty: for he judged his ways before the LORD his God. 7. And the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all his strife, and all his ways, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. 8. Twenty and five years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. 9. And Jotham slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David. And Ahaz his son reigned in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 28 Of Ahaz the king of Judah, and his ungodly nature. 1. Ahaz was twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem: and he did not that which was right in the sight of the LORD, as David his father did, 2. But walked in the ways of the kings of Israel. For this purpose he made cast images of Baalim. 3. And he burnt incense in the valley of the children of Hinnom, and burnt his sons with fire, according to the abomination of the heathen, whom the LORD had driven out from before the children of Israel; 4. And offered sacrifice and burnt incense in the high places, and in the hills, and under every green tree. 5. Therefore the LORD his God delivered him into the hand of the king of Syria, and they smote him, and carried away a great multitude of his own captives, and brought them to Damascus. He was also given into the hand of the king of Israel, and he fought a great battle against him. 6. For Pekah the son of Remaliah smote in Judah an hundred and twenty thousand in one day, all of them upright men, because they forsook the LORD God of their fathers. 7. And Zichri, a mighty man of Ephraim, slew Maeshiah the king's son, and Azrikam the prince of the house, and Elkanah the next after the king. 8. And the children of Israel carried away captive from among their brethren two hundred thousand women, sons and daughters: and they took a great spoil of them, and brought the spoil to Samaria. 9. And there was there a prophet of the LORD, whose name was Oded, which went out to meet the host that came to Samaria, and said unto them, Behold, because the LORD God of your fathers is wroth with Judah, he hath delivered them into your hand; but ye have slain them so horribly that it reacheth unto heaven. 10. Now therefore intend ye to subdue the children of Judah and Jerusalem unto you for bondmen and bondmaids. Is not this your fault against the LORD your God? 11. Now therefore hearken unto me, and bring again the captives which ye have carried away from among your brethren: for the wrath of the LORD is kindled against you. 12. And there arose some of the chief of the children of Ephraim, Azariah the son of Johanan, and Berechiah the son of Meshillemoth, and Jehizkiah the son of Shallum, and Amasa the son of Hadlai, against them that came out of the army, 13. And they said unto them: Ye shall not bring in the captives: for ye only remember iniquity before the LORD against us, that ye may make our sin and our iniquity more: for the iniquity is too much before, and the wrath is kindled against Israel. 14. And the soldiers left the captives and the spoil before the princes, and before all the congregation. 15. And the men which are now named arose, and took the captives, and all that were naked among them, and clothed them of the spoil, and put on shoes, and gave them to eat and to drink, and anointed them, and led them upon asses all that were feeble, and brought them to Jericho, to the city of palm trees, to their brethren. And they returned to Samaria. 16. At that time king Ahaz sent unto the kings of Assyria to help him. 17. And the Edomites came again, and smote Judah, and carried away some of them. 18. And the Philistines pitched in the cities, in the floodplain, and in the south of Judah, and took Bethshemesh, and Ajalon, and Gederoth, and Shocho, with their daughters, and Timnah with her daughters, and Gimso with her daughters; and dwelt therein. 19. For the LORD humbled Judah because of Ahaz king of Judah, because he made Judah naked, and trespassed against the LORD. 20. And there came against him Tiglathpilneser king of Assyria, and besieged him; but he could not prevail against him. 21. For Ahaz divided the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and the house of the princes, which he gave to the king of Assyria: but it availed him not. 22. And in his distress king Ahaz made more of the trespass against the LORD. 23. And he sacrificed unto the gods of Damascus, which smote him, saying, The gods of the kings of Syria help them: therefore will I sacrifice unto them, that they may help me also: for they were a stumblingblock to him, and to all Israel. 24. And Ahaz brought the vessels of the house of God in multitude, and gathered the vessels into the house of God, and shut the doors of the house of the LORD, and made him altars in every corner of Jerusalem. 25. And in the cities of Judah to and fro he made high places to burn incense unto other gods, and provoked the LORD God of his fathers. 26. And the rest of his acts, and all his ways, both first and last, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. 27. And Ahaz slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of Jerusalem: for they brought him not among the sepulchres of the kings of Israel. And Jehizkiah his son reigned in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 29 Jehizkiah restores the right worship, 1. Jehizkiah was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Abijah, a daughter of Zechariah. 2. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, as did David his father. 3. He opened the doors of the house of the LORD in the first month of the first year of his kingdom, and fastened them. 4. And he brought in the priests and the Levites, and assembled them in the broad street toward the east. 5. And said unto them: Hearken unto me, ye Levites. Sanctify yourselves therefore, that ye sanctify the house of the LORD your God's fathers, and put away the filth from off the sanctuary. 6. For our fathers have transgressed, and done evil in the sight of the LORD our God, and have forsaken him. For they have turned away their faces from the tabernacle of the LORD, and have turned their backs; 7. And they shut the door of the hall, and put out the lamps, and burned no incense, nor offered burnt offerings in the sanctuary unto the God of Israel. 8. Therefore the wrath of the LORD is come upon Judah and Jerusalem, and hath given them to be scattered, and to be desolate, to be whistled at, as ye see with your eyes. 9. For, behold, for this cause our fathers fell by the sword, and our sons and our daughters and our wives were carried away. 10. Now it is in my mind to make a covenant with the LORD God of Israel, that his wrath and his fury may turn from us. 11. Now therefore, my sons, be not negligent: for the LORD hath chosen you to stand before him, and to be his ministers and incense burners. 12. And the Levites arose: Mahath the son of Amasai, and Joel the son of Azariah, of the children of the Kohathites: and of the children of Meran, Kish the son of Abdi, and Azariah the son of Jehaleleel: and of the children of the Gershonites, Joab the son of Shimmah, and Eden the son of Joah; 13. And of the sons of Elizaphan, Zimri and Jeiel; and of the sons of Asaph, Zechariah and Mathaniah; 14. And of the sons of Heman, Jehiel and Shimei: and of the sons of Jeduthun, Shemaiah and Uzziel. 15. And they gathered their brethren together, and sanctified themselves, and went in according to the king's commandment by the word of the LORD, to cleanse the house of the LORD. 16. And the priests went in within the house of the LORD to cleanse it, and put all the uncleanness that was found in the temple of the LORD into the court of the house of the LORD: and the Levites took it up, and carried it out into the brook Kidron. 17. And they began to sanctify themselves on the first day of the first month: and on the eighth day of the month they entered into the hall of the LORD, and sanctified the house of the LORD eight days, and finished it on the sixteenth day of the first month. 18. And they went in unto king Hezekiah, and said: We have cleansed all the house of the LORD, the altar of burnt offering, and all his vessels, the table of shewbread, and all his vessels. 19. And all the vessels which Ahaz the king, when he was king, cast away, when he sinned, we have prepared and sanctified; behold, they are before the altar of the LORD. 20. And king Hezekiah rose up early, and gathered the princes of the city together, and went up to the house of the LORD. 21. And they brought seven bullocks, and seven rams, and seven lambs, and seven kids of the goats, for a sin offering for the kingdom, and for the sanctuary, and for Judah. And he spake unto the priests the sons of Aaron, that they should offer upon the altar of the LORD. 22. And they slew the oxen, and the priests took the blood, and sprinkled it upon the altar; and slew the rams, and sprinkled the blood upon the altar; and slew the lambs, and sprinkled the blood upon the altar. 23. And they brought the goats for a sin offering before the king and the congregation, and laid their hands upon them. 24. And the priests slew them, and purified their blood upon the altar, to make an atonement for all Israel. For the king had commanded to offer burnt offerings and sin offerings for all Israel. 25. And he set the Levites in the house of the LORD with cymbals, and with psalteries, and with harps, according to the commandment of David, and of Gad the king's tempter, and of Nathan the prophet: for it was the commandment of the LORD by his prophets. 26. And the Levites sat with the instruments of David, and the priests with the trumpets. 27. And Hezekiah commanded them to offer burnt offerings upon the altar. And it came to pass about the time that they began to offer the burnt offering, that the song of the LORD began, and the sound of the trumpets, and the sound of many strings of David king of Israel. 28. And all the congregation worshipped, and the singing of the singers, and the beating of the drums, continued all until the burnt offering was offered. 29. And when the burnt offering was made, the king bowed himself, and all that were with him, and worshipped. 30. And king Hezekiah and the princes commanded the Levites to praise the LORD with the song of David, and with the song of Assaph, the showman. And they praised with joy, and bowed themselves, and worshipped. 31. And Hezekiah answered and said, Now that ye have filled your hands unto the LORD, come near, and bring the sacrifices and the peace offerings unto the house of the LORD. And the congregation brought sacrifices and peace offerings, and every man a freewill offering of the heart. 32. And the number of the burnt offerings which the congregation offered was threescore and ten oxen, and an hundred rams, and two hundred lambs: all these were for a burnt offering unto the LORD. 33. And they sanctified six hundred oxen and three thousand sheep. 34. But the priests were few, and could not skin all the burnt offerings: therefore they took their brethren the Levites, until the work was finished, and the priests sanctified themselves. For the Levites are more easily sanctified than the priests. 35. And the burnt offerings were many, with the fat of the peace offerings, and the drink offerings with the burnt offerings. So the service of the house of the LORD was finished. 36. And Hezekiah rejoiced with all the people, because they were ready with God: for it was done speedily. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 30 Proclamation and keeping of the Passover.' 1. And Hezekiah sent unto all Israel and Judah, and wrote letters unto Ephraim and Manasseh, that they should come to the house of the LORD to Jerusalem, to keep the passover unto the LORD God of Israel. 2. And the king took counsel with the princes thereof, and with all the congregation that were at Jerusalem, to keep the passover in the second month. 3. For they could not keep it that day, because the priests were not sanctified enough, and the people were not yet come in multitude to Jerusalem. 4. And it pleased the king well, and all the congregation, 5. And they commanded to be proclaimed throughout all Israel, from Beersheba even unto Dan, to come and keep the passover unto the LORD God of Israel at Jerusalem: for it was not kept for a long time, as it is written. 6. And the runners went with the letters by the hand of the king and of his princes throughout all Israel and Judah out of the king's commandment, saying: Ye children of Israel, turn ye unto the LORD God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Israel, and he will turn unto the remnant that are left of you out of the hand of the kings of Assyria. 7. And be not ye like your fathers and your brethren, which trespassed against the LORD God of their fathers, and he gave them up to desolation, as ye yourselves see. 8. Be not stiffnecked therefore, as your fathers were, but give your hand unto the LORD, and come unto his sanctuary, which he hath hallowed for ever, and serve the LORD your God: and the fury of his wrath shall be turned away from you. 9. For if ye turn unto the LORD, your brethren and your children shall have mercy upon them that hold them captive, that they may come again into this land. For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn his face from you, if ye turn unto him. 10. And the runners went from city to city in the land of Ephraim and Manasseh, and as far as Zebulun: but they laughed them to scorn, and mocked them. 11. And some of Asher, and Manasseh, and Zebulun, humbled themselves, and came to Jerusalem. 12. And the hand of God came upon Judah, to give them one heart to do according to the commandment of the king, and according to the commandment of the princes, from the word of the LORD. 13. And there came a great multitude to Jerusalem to keep the feast of unleavened bread in the second month, a very great congregation. 14. And they arose, and took down the altars that were in Jerusalem, and put away all the incense, and cast it into the brook Kidron. 15. And they slew the passover on the fourteenth day of the second month. And the priests and the Levites confessed their shame, and sanctified themselves, and brought the burnt offerings unto the house of the LORD. 16. And they kept their charge according to the law of Moses the man of God. And the priests sprinkled the blood from the hand of the Levites. 17. For there were many of them in the congregation that had not sanctified themselves: therefore the Levites slew the passover for them that were not clean, that they might be sanctified unto the LORD. 18. And there were many of the people of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and Issachar, and Zebulun, which were not clean, but did eat the passover, as it is written. For Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, The LORD, which is good, will be gracious. 19. To all who send their hearts to seek God, the Lord, the God of their fathers, and not for the sake of holy purity. 20. And the LORD hearkened unto Hezekiah, and healed the people. 21. So the children of Israel that were found at Jerusalem kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with great joy. And the Levites and the priests praised the LORD all the days with strong singing of the LORD. 22. And Hezekiah spake heartily unto all the Levites, which had good understanding in the LORD. And they did eat the feast seven days, and offered peace offerings, and gave thanks unto the LORD God of their fathers. 23. And the whole congregation were counselled to keep seven days more: and they kept the seven days with joy. 24. For Hezekiah king of Judah gave a tribute for the congregation, a thousand bullocks, and seven thousand sheep. And the princes gave a tribute for the congregation, a thousand bullocks, and ten thousand sheep. So many priests sanctified themselves. 25. And all the congregation of Judah, and the priests, and the Levites, and all the congregation that were come out of Israel, and the strangers that were come out of the land of Israel, and that dwelt in Judah, rejoiced. 26. And there was great joy in Jerusalem. For not since the days of Solomon the son of David king of Israel had such things been in Jerusalem. 27. And the priests and the Levites arose, and blessed the people; and their voice was heard, and their prayer came in before his holy habitation which is in heaven. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 31 Abolition of idolatry, provision for the priests and Levites. 1. And when all these things were made ready, all the children of Israel that were found among the cities of Judah went out, and brake down the pillars, and cut down the groves, and brake down the high places and the altars out of all Judah, and Benjamin, and Ephraim, and Manasseh, until they had made them clean. And the children of Israel returned unto their possession unto their cities. 2. And Hezekiah set the priests and the Levites in their order, every man according to his service, both of the priests and the Levites, for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to minister, and to give thanks, and to praise, in the gates of the camp of the LORD. 3. And the king gave his portion of his substance for burnt offerings morning and evening, and for burnt offerings on the sabbath day, and for new moons, and for feasts, as it is written in the law of the LORD. 4. And he spake unto the people that dwelt at Jerusalem, that they should give part to the priests and to the Levites, that they might keep the law of the LORD more earnestly. 5. And when the word went forth, the children of Israel gave much firstfruits of corn, and wine, and oil, and honey, and all the produce of the field; and they brought in much tithes of all kinds. 6. And the children of Israel and Judah, which dwelt in the cities of Judah, brought also tithes of oxen and sheep, and tithes of that which was sanctified, which they had dedicated unto the LORD their God, and made heaps here and heaps there. 7. In the third moon they began to lay heaps, and in the seventh moon they straightened it. 8. And when Hezekiah went in with the princes, and saw the multitude, they praised the LORD, and his people Israel. 9. And Hezekiah asked the priests and the Levites for heaps. 10. And Azariah the priest, the chief of the house of Zadok, said unto him, Since the time that they began to bring the heaves into the house of the LORD, we have eaten, and been filled, and there is yet much left: for the LORD hath blessed his people, therefore this multitude is left. 11. Then the king commanded that boxes should be prepared in the house of the LORD. And they prepared them 12. And they put in the heave, and the tithes, and the holy things, faithfully. And over the same was prince Hananiah the Levite, and Shimei his brother the other, 13. And Jehiel, and Azaziah, and Nahath, and Asahel, and Jerimoth, and Jozabad, and Eliel, and Jesmachiah, and Mahath, and Benaiah, appointed by the hand of Hananiah, and by the hand of Shimei his brother, according to the commandment of king Hezekiah. But Azariah was prince in the house of God. 14. And Kore the son of Jemnah the Levite, the keeper of the gate toward the east, was over the freewill offerings of God, which were given to the LORD to heave, and over the most holy. 15. And under his hand were: Eden, and Minjamin, and Jeshua, and Shemaiah, and Amariah, and Zechaniah, in the cities of the priests, on faith to give unto their brethren after their order, to the least as well as to the greatest; 16. And to them that were counted men of three years old and upward, of all that entered into the house of the LORD, every one in his day to their service in their charge, according to their order; 17. Even they that were counted for priests in the house of their fathers, and the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, in their guard after their order; 18. And they that were numbered among their children, and their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, among all the congregation. For they sanctified the holy things faithfully. 19. And there were men named among the children. Aaron the priests, in the fields of the suburbs, in all the cities, to give part to all the men of the priests, and to all that were numbered with the Levites. 20. So Hezekiah did throughout all Judah, and did that which was good, and right, and true, in the sight of the LORD his God. 21. And in all that he began to do in the service of the house of God, according to the law and the commandment, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart; therefore he was fortunate. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 32 Hezekiah's miraculous protection against Sanherib. 1. After these tales, and after these faithfulness, came Sanherib king of Assyria, and went into Judah, and encamped before the strong cities, and purposed to take them. 2. And it came to pass, when Hezekiah saw that Sanherib was come, and that his face was set to fight against Jerusalem, 3. And he took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to cover the waters of the wells that were without the city: and they helped him. 4. And a great multitude gathered themselves together, and covered all the wells and running waters in the midst of the land, and said: That the kings of Assyria find not much water when they come. 5. And he was confident, and built all the walls that were broken down, and made towers upon them, and built another wall without, and fortified Millo in the city of David, and made many weapons and shields. 6. And he set the captains to battle among the people, and gathered them unto him into the broad street of the gate of the city, and spake heartily unto them, saying: 7. Be of good cheer, fear not, nor be dismayed before the king of Assyria, nor before all the multitude that are with him: for there is a greater with us than with him. 8. With him is an arm of flesh: but with us is the LORD our God, to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people trusted in the words of Hezekiah king of Judah. 9. After these things Sanherib king of Assyria sent his servants to Jerusalem, (for he was before Lachish, and all his dominions with him,) to Hezekiah king of Judah, and to all Judah that was at Jerusalem, saying: 10. Thus saith Sanherib king of Assyria, Wherefore dwell ye in Jerusalem that are besieged? 11. And Hezekiah hath spoken unto you to give you to death, and to hunger, and to thirst, saying, The LORD our God will deliver us out of the hand of the king of Assyria. 12. Is not he Hezekiah, which put away his high places and his altars, and said unto Judah and Jerusalem, Before one altar shall ye worship, and burn incense thereon? 13. Know ye not what I and my fathers have done unto all the peoples of the countries? Have the gods of the nations of the countries delivered their countries out of my hand? 14. Who is there among all the gods of these nations, which my fathers destroyed, that should deliver his people out of mine hand, that your God should deliver you out of mine hand? 15. Let not Hezekiah therefore set you up, neither let him persuade you, nor believe him. For if no god of all nations and kingdoms hath delivered his people out of mine hand, nor out of the hand of my fathers; neither will your gods deliver you out of mine hand. 16. And his servants spake yet more against the LORD God, and against his servant Hezekiah. 17. And he wrote letters of scorn unto the LORD God of Israel, and spake of him, saying, As the gods of the heathen of the countries have not delivered their people out of mine hand, so shall not the God of Hezekiah deliver his people out of mine hand. 18. And they cried with a loud voice in the Jews' language unto the people that were at Jerusalem, which were upon the wall, to make them afraid, and to affright them, that they might gain the city; 19. And they spake against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the nations of the earth, which were the work of men's hands. 20. And Hezekiah the king, and Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz, prayed against it, and cried unto heaven. 21. And the LORD sent an angel, which destroyed all the mighty men of the host, and the princes, and the rulers of the camp of the king of Assyria; and he returned with shame into his own land. And when he was entered into the house of his God, they that were of his own body slew him there with the sword. 22, So the LORD delivered Hezekiah and Jerusalem out of the hand of Sanherib king of Assyria, and out of the hand of all the rest, and kept them from all around, 23. And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and jewels unto Hezekiah king of Judah. And afterward he was exalted in the sight of all the nations. 24. And at that time Hezekiah was sick unto death; and he besought the LORD. And he spake unto him, and gave him a miracle. 25. But Hezekiah forgave not as it was given him: for his heart was lifted up. Therefore wrath came upon him, and upon Judah, and upon Jerusalem. 26. But Hezekiah humbled himself, because his heart was lifted up, he and they of Jerusalem: therefore the wrath of the LORD came not upon them, because Hezekiah lived. 27. And Hezekiah had very great riches and honour, and made him treasures of silver, and gold, and precious stones, and spices, and shields, and all manner of precious vessels. 28. And granaries for the corn, and for the must, and for the oil, and stalls for all manner of cattle, and sheds for the sheep. 29. And they built him cities, and had flocks and herds in abundance: for God gave him very great goods. 30. He is the Hezekiah that covered the high spring of water in Gihon, and led it down from the west to the city of David: for Hezekiah was blessed in all his works. 31. And when the messages of the princes of Babylon were sent unto him, to inquire after the miracle that was done in the land, God left him to try him, that all things that were in his heart might be known. 32. And the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his mercy, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. 33. And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him over the graves of the children of David. And all Judah and they that were at Jerusalem did him honour in his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 33 Manasseh and Amon's government. 1. Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem; 2. And did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, according to the abominations of the heathen, which the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel. 3. And he turned again, and built the high places which Hezekiah his father had broken down, and set up altars for Baalim, and made groves, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and ministered unto them. 4. He also built altars in the house of the LORD, whereof the LORD spake: In Jerusalem shall my name be for ever. 5. And built altars of all host in heaven in both courts of the house of the LORD. 6. And he caused his sons to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom, and chose days, and hearkened unto the cry of the birds, and wrought magic, and appointed soothsayers and diviners, and did much that was evil in the sight of the LORD to provoke him to anger. 7. And he set images and graven images, which he made, in the house of God, whereof the LORD spake to David, and to Solomon his son, saying, In this house which is at Jerusalem, which I have chosen before all the tribes of Israel, will I put my name for ever; 8. And I will no more turn aside the foot of Israel from the land which I appointed for their fathers, if they will observe to do all that I have commanded them in all the statutes, and in all the commandments, and in all the judgments, by the hand of Moses. 9. And Manasseh deceived Judah and Jerusalem, so that they did more evil than the heathen, whom the LORD had destroyed from before the children of Israel. 10. And when the LORD spake unto Manasseh and to his people, they took no notice. 11. Therefore the LORD sent upon them the captains of the host of the king of Assyria, which took Manasseh captive with fetters, and bound him with chains, and brought him to Babylon. 12. And when he was in anguish, he besought the LORD his God, and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers, 13. And he besought him, and besought him. And he heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem unto his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD was God. 14. And afterward he built the uttermost walls of the city of David from the westward to Gihon in the brook, and from the entering in of the fish gate, and round about to Ophel, and made them very high: and he put captains in the strong cities of Judah. 15. And he took away the strange gods, and the idols out of the house of the LORD, and all the altars which he had built in the mount of the house of the LORD, and in Jerusalem, and cast them out of the city. 16. And he set up the altar of the LORD, and offered thereon peace offerings and sacrifices of praise, and commanded Judah to serve the LORD God of Israel. 17. But the people sacrificed in the high places, though they sacrificed unto the LORD their God. 18. And the rest of the acts of Manasseh, and his prayers unto his God, and the words of the men that talked with him in the name of the LORD God of Israel, behold, they are among the acts of the kings of Israel. 19. And his prayer, and his supplication, and all his sin and iniquity, and the place whereon he built the high places, and made groves and idols, before he was humbled, behold, they are written among the tales of the showers. 20. And Manasseh slept with his fathers, and they buried him in his house. And Amon his son reigned in his stead. 21. Twenty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. 22. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as Manasseh his father had done. And Amon sacrificed unto all the idols which Manasseh his father had made, and served them. 23. But he humbled not himself before the LORD, as Manasseh his father humbled himself: for he Amon made much iniquity. 24. And his servants made a league against him, and slew him in his house. 25. And the people of the land smote all them that had made a covenant against Amon the king. And the people of the land made Josiah his son king in his stead. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 34 Josiah cleans and improves the temple. 1. Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem. 2. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand, nor to the left. 3. For in the eighth year of his reign, when he was yet a boy, he began to seek the God of David his father; and in the twelfth year he began to cleanse Judah and Jerusalem from the high places, and from the groves, and from the idols, and from the graven images. 4. And he brake down before him the altars of Baalim, and the graven images that were upon them, and he brake down the groves, and the idols, and the graven images, and made them dust, and scattered them upon the graves of them that sacrificed unto them. 5. And he burnt the bones of the priests upon the altars, and purified Judah and Jerusalem, 6. And in the cities of Manasseh, and in Ephraim, and in Simeon, and as far as Naphtali, in their deserts round about. 7. And when he had broken down the altars and the groves, and broken in pieces the idols, and cut down all the images throughout all the land of Israel, he returned to Jerusalem. 8. In the eighteenth year of his reign, when he had purified the land and the house, he sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah, and Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Jehoah the son of Jehoahaz the chancellor, to repair the house of the LORD his God. 9. And they came to Hilkiah the high priest. And they gave them the money that was brought into the house of God, which the Levites that kept the threshold had gathered of Manasseh, and of Ephraim, and of all the remnant of Israel, and of all Judah and Benjamin, and of them that dwelt at Jerusalem. 10. And they put it under the hands of the labourers that were employed in the house of the LORD. And they gave it to them that wrought in the house of the LORD, and where it was broken down, to repair the house. 11. And they sent away to the carpenters and builders to buy hewn stone and hewn timber for the beams of the houses which the kings of Judah had destroyed. 12. And the men laboured faithfully in the work. And Jahath and Obadiah the Levite, of the children of Merari; Zechariah and Meshullam, of the children of the Kohathites, were appointed over them to do the work; and all the Levites that knew how to play the string. 13. And over the bearers of burdens, and the drivers of all manner of work in all offices, were of the Levites the scribes, and the officers, and the porters. 14. And when they had taken out the money that was laid up for the house of the LORD, Hilkiah the priest found the book of the law of the LORD given by Moses. 15. And Hilkiah answered and said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book unto Shaphan. 16. And Shaphan brought it unto the king, and told the king again, saying, All that is put into the hands of thy servants, they do. 17. And they poured out the money that was found in the house of the LORD, and gave it to them that were bidden, and to the workmen. 18. And Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest hath given me a book. And Shaphan read within before the king. 19. And when the king heard the words of the law, he rent his clothes. 20. And the king commanded Hilkiah, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Abdon the son of Micah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the king's servant, saying: 21. Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me, and for the remnant of Israel, and for Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers kept not the word of the LORD, to do as it is written in this book. 22. Then Hilkiah went with the rest of the king's men unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Takehath, the son of Hasrah, the keeper of the garments, which dwelt in Jerusalem in the other part, and spake these things unto her. 23. And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Say unto the man that sent you unto me: 24. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, all the curses that are written in the book that was read before the king of Judah, 25. Because they have forsaken me, and burned incense unto other gods, and provoked me to anger with all the works of their hands. And my wrath shall be kindled upon this place, and shall not be quenched. 26. And unto the king of Judah, which sent you to enquire of the LORD, ye shall say thus, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel concerning the words which thou hast heard: 27. Because thine heart was moved, and thou humbledst thyself before God, when thou heardest his words against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, and hast humbled thyself before me, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me, I also have heard thee, saith the LORD. 28. Behold, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil that I will bring upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof: and they told the king again. 29. And the king sent, and called for all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. 30. And the king went up into the house of the LORD, and all the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the priests, and the Levites, and all the people, both small and great: and all the words of the book of the covenant which was found in the house of the LORD were read in their ears. 31. And the king stood in his place, and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD, to keep his commandments, and his testimonies, and his statutes, with all his heart, and with all his soul, to do according to all the words of the covenant that were written in this book. 32. And all that were in Jerusalem, and in Benjamin, stood there. And the inhabitants of Jerusalem did according to the covenant of God, the God of their fathers. 33. And Josiah put away all the abominations out of all the countries that were of the children of Israel, and caused all that were found in Israel to serve the LORD their God. As long as Josiah lived, they departed not from the LORD their fathers' God. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 35 Josiah keeps Passover, perishes in battle, 1. And Josiah kept the passover unto the LORD in Jerusalem, and slew the passover on the fourteenth day of the first month. 2. And he put the priests in their charge, and strengthened them for their service in the house of the LORD. 3. And he spake unto the Levites, which taught all Israel, and were sanctified unto the LORD: Put the holy ark in the house which Solomon the son of David king of Israel built. Ye shall not bear it upon your shoulders. Serve therefore the LORD your God, and his people Israel. 4. And, Set the house of your fathers in your order, as it was described by David king of Israel, and by Solomon his son. 5. And stand in the sanctuary after the order of the fathers' houses among your brethren, born of the people, even the order of the fathers' houses among the Levites. 6. And kill the passover, and sanctify yourselves, and send your brethren to do according to the word of the LORD by Moses. 7. And Josiah gave for an offering to the common man lambs and kids of the goats, all for the passover, for all that were present, thirty thousand in number, and three thousand oxen, and all of the king's substance. 8. And his princes gave freely for the people, and for the priests, and for the Levites (Hilkiah, Zechariah, and Jehiel, the princes of the house of God among the priests), for the passover, two thousand and six hundred lambs and goats, and three hundred oxen. 9. And Hananiah, and Shemaiah, and Nethaneel, and his brethren, Hashabiah, and Jeiel, and Jozabad, the chief of the Levites, gave unto the Levites for the passover five thousand lambs and goats, and five hundred oxen. 10. So the service was appointed; and the priests sat in their place, and the Levites in their order, according to the king's commandment. 11. And they slew the passover; and the priests took of their hands, and sprinkled, and the Levites skinned them. 12. And they offered the burnt offerings thereof, that they might offer them among the parts of the fathers' houses in their common multitude unto the LORD, as it is written in the book of Moses. And so they did with the oxen. 13. And they cooked the passover by the fire, as it was meet. And that which was hallowed they cooked in pots, and in kettles, and in pans. And they made it in haste for the common multitude. 14. And afterward they prepared also for themselves, and for the priests. For the priests, the sons of Aaron, prepared the burnt offering and the fat until night. Therefore the Levites prepared for themselves, and for the priests the sons of Aaron. 15. And they, the singers, the children of Asaph, sat in their place according to the commandment of David, and of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jedithun, the king's porter, and the porters of all the gates: and they departed not from their service: for the Levites their brethren prepared for them, 16. So all the service of the LORD that day was ordained," that they kept the passover, and offered burnt offerings upon the altar of the LORD, according to the commandment of king Josiah. 17. So the children of Israel that were present kept the passover at that time, and the feast of unleavened bread seven days. 18. And there was no passover kept in Israel like unto this from the time of Samuel the prophet, neither had there been a king in Israel that kept such a passover as Josiah kept, and the Levites the priests, all Judah, and all that were present of Israel, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 19. In the eighteenth year of the reign of Josiah was this passover kept. 20. And it came to pass after this, when Josiah had made ready the house, that Necho king of Egypt went up to fight against Carchemish at Phrath. And Josiah went out to meet him. 21. But he sent messengers unto him, saying, What have I to do with thee, O king Judas? I come not now against thee, but I contend against a house, and God hath told me to haste. Hear of God, who is with me, that he destroy thee not. 22. But Josiah turned not his face from him, but stood to contend with him, and hearkened not to the words of Necho out of the mouth of God; and came to contend with him in the plain at Megiddo. 23. But they that shot the king Josiah. And the king said unto his servants: Lead me over, for I am very sore. 24. And his servants took him out of the chariot, and led him in his other chariot, and brought him to Jerusalem: and he died, and was buried among the sepulchres of his fathers. And all Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah. 25. And Jeremiah lamented Josiah; and all the singers and singers spake their lamentations over Josiah unto this day, and made it a custom in Israel. Behold, it is written among the lamentations. 26. But the more that is to be said of Josiah, and his mercy according to the scriptures in the law of the LORD. 27. And the acts thereof, both the first and the last, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. (2 Chronicles) Chapter 36 Of Josiah's successors and the Babylonian captivity. 1. And the people of the land took Jehoahaz the son of Josiah, and made him king in his father's stead at Jerusalem. 2. Jehoahaz was twenty and three years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months in Jerusalem. 3. For the king of Egypt deposed him at Jerusalem, and made an atonement for the land of an hundred talents of silver and a talent of gold. 4. And the king of Egypt made Eliakim his brother king over Judah and Jerusalem, and changed his name to Jehoiakim. But Jehoahaz his brother Necho took, and brought him into Egypt. 5. Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem: and he did evil in the sight of the LORD his God. 6. And Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up against him, and bound him with chains, to bring him to Babylon. 7. Nebuchadnezzar also brought some vessels of the house of the LORD to Babylon, and put them in his temple at Babylon. 8. And the rest of the acts of Jehoiakim, and his abominations which he did, and which were found in him, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. And Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead. 9. Jehoiachin was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months and ten days in Jerusalem, and did evil in the sight of the LORD. 10. And it came to pass, when the year was expired, that Nebuchadnezzar sent and took him to Babylon with the precious vessels that were in the house of the LORD, and made Zedekiah his brother king over Judah and Jerusalem; 11. Zedekiah was twenty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. 12. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD his God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the prophet, which spake out of the mouth of the LORD. 13. And he turned away from Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, which had taken an oath of him by God, and was stiffnecked, and hardened his heart, that he turned not unto the LORD God of Israel. 14. And all the chief of the priests with the people sinned much after all the abominations of the heathen, and defiled the house of the LORD, which he had sanctified at Jerusalem. 15. And the LORD God of their fathers sent unto them early by his messengers. For he spared his people, and his tabernacle. 16. But they mocked at the messengers of God, and despised his words, and mocked at his prophets, until the fury of the LORD increased against his people, that there was no more healing. 17. For he brought upon them the king of the Chaldeans, and slew their young men with the sword in the house of their sanctuary, and spared neither young men nor virgins, neither old men nor grandfathers: he delivered them all into his hand. 18. And all the vessels of the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king, and of his princes, all these he carried away to Babylon. 19. And they burned the house of God, and brake down the walls of Jerusalem, and burned all her palaces with fire, and destroyed all her precious vessels. 20. And he carried away to Babylon them that remained of the sword, and they became his servants, and his sons' servants, until the kingdom of the Persians reigned, 21. That the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, until the land had enough of his sabbaths. For all the time of the destruction was the sabbath, until the seventy years were fulfilled. 22. And it came to pass in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD spoken by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, that the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, to cry out throughout all his kingdom, and by writing, saying: 23. Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the countries, and hath commanded me to build him an house at Jerusalem in Judah. Whosoever therefore among you is of his people, with him be the LORD his God, and go up. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Ezra ^ Chapter 1 Cyrus, or Cyrus, releases the captive Jews. 1. In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he should cry out throughout all his kingdom, and in writing, saying: 2. Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath commanded me to build him an house at Jerusalem in Judah. 3. Whosoever therefore among you is of his people, let his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem in Judah, and build the house of the LORD God of Israel. He is the God who is in Jerusalem. 4. And whosoever remaineth in any place where he is a stranger, the people of his place shall freely help him with silver, and gold, and goods, and cattle, unto the house of GOD at Jerusalem. 5. And the chief fathers of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests, and the Levites, all whose spirit God had stirred up, arose to go up and build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem. 6. And all they that were about them strengthened their hand with vessels of silver, and with vessels of gold, and with goods, and with cattle, and with jewels, without any free gift. 7. And king Cyrus brought forth the vessels of the house of the LORD, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of Jerusalem, and put them in the house of his God. 8. And Cyrus king of Persia brought them out by Mithredath the treasurer, and numbered them with Sheshbazzar the prince of Judah. 9. And this is the number of them: thirty basins of gold, and a thousand basins of silver, twenty and nine knives; 10. Thirty cups of gold, and other silver cups four hundred and ten, and other vessels a thousand, 11. And all the vessels, both of gold and silver, were five thousand and four hundred. All these did Sheshbazzar bring up with them that came up out of the prison of Babylon unto Jerusalem. (Ezra) Chapter 2 Number and register of the returning Jews and their contribution to the building of the temple. 1. These are the children of the countries which came up out of the captivity which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had brought to Babylon, and returned to Jerusalem, and to Judah, every man to his own city. 2. And came with Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and Nehemiah, and Seraiah, and Reeliah, and Mordecai, and Bilshan, and Mishpar, and Bigevai, and Rehum, and Baena. Now this is the number of the men of the people of Israel: 3. Of the children of Pareo, two thousand and two hundred and seventy; 4. The children of Shephatiah, three hundred seventy and two; 5. The children of Arah, seven hundred seventy and five; 6. Of the sons of Pahathmoab, of the sons of Jeshua, Joab, two thousand eight hundred and twelve; 7. Of the children of Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four; 8. Of the children of Sathu, nine hundred forty and five; 9. The children of Sakai, seven hundred threescore and ten; 10. Of the children of Bani, six hundred forty and two; 11. Of the children of Bebai, six hundred twenty and three; 12. Of the children of Asgad, a thousand two hundred twenty and two; 13. Of the children of Adonikam, six hundred threescore and six; 14. The children of Bigevai, two thousand and fifty and six; 15. The children of Adin, four hundred fifty and four; 16. Of the sons of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety and eight; 17. The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty and three; 18. The children of Jorah, an hundred and twelve. 19. Of the children of Hasum, two hundred twenty and three; 20. Of the children of Gibbar ninety and five; 21. Of the children of Beth-lehem, an hundred twenty and three; 22. of the men Netopha fifty-six; 23. Of the men of Anathoth, an hundred twenty and eight; 24. Of the children of Asmaveth forty-two; 25. Of the children of Kiriath-arim, Caphira, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty and three; 26. Of the children of Ramah and Gaba, six hundred twenty and one; 27. Of the men of Michmash, an hundred twenty and two; 28. Of the men of Bethel and Ai, two hundred twenty and three; 29. The children of Nebo fifty and two; 30. Of the men of Magbis an hundred and fifty-six; 31. Of the children of the other Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four; 32. Of the children of Harim, three hundred twenty; 33. Of the children of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, seven hundred twenty and five; 34. The children of Jereho, three hundred forty and five; 35. Of the children of Senaa, three thousand six hundred thirty; 36. The priests: of the sons of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred threescore and three; 37. of the children Always a thousand and fifty-two; 38. Of the children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven; 39. Of the children of Harim, a thousand and seventeen; 40. Of the Levites: of the children of Jeshua, and of Kadmiel, of the children of Hodaviah, seventy and four; 41. The singers: of the children of Assaph, an hundred twenty and eight; 42. Of the children of the keepers of the gate: the children of Shallum, the children of Ater, the children of Talmon, the children of Akub, the children of Hatita, and the children of Sobai, all an hundred thirty and nine; 43. Of the Nethinim: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabaoth, 44. The children of Keros, the children of Sieha, the children of Padon, 45. The children of Lebana, the children of Hagaba, the children of Akub, 46. The children of Hagab, the children of Samlai, the children of Hanan, 47. The children of Giddel, the children of Gahar, the children of Reaiah, 48. The children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gasam, 49. The children of Uzzah, the children of Paseah, the children of Besai. 50. The children of Asna, the children of Meunim, the children of Nephusim,. 51. The children of Bakbuk, the children of Hakupha, the children of Harhur, 52. The children of Bazeluth, the children of Mehida, the children of Harsa, 53. The children of Barkom, the children of Sissera, the children of Thamah, 54. The children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha; 55. The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Pruda, 56. The children Jaela, the children Darkon, the children Giddel, 57. The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Ami. 58. All the Nethinims and the children of Solomon's servants were together three hundred and ninety and two. 59. And these also went up with them, Mithel, and Melah, and Thelharsa, and Cherub-Addon, and Immer: but they could not shew the house of their fathers, nor their seed, whether they were of Israel. 60. The children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of Nekoda: six hundred fifty and two. 61. And of the sons of the priests; the sons of Habaiah, the sons of Hakoz, the sons of Barzillai, who took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called by the same name. 62. These sought their registers of birth, and found none: therefore they were loosed from the priesthood. 63. And Hathirsatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the holy of holies, until a priest stood with the light and right. 64. All the congregation, as one man, were forty and two thousand three hundred and threescore, 65. Except their menservants and their maidservants, which were seven thousand three hundred thirty and seven. And had two hundred singers and singers, 66. Seven hundred thirty and six horses, two hundred forty and five mouths, 67. Four hundred thirty and five camels, and six thousand seven hundred and twenty asses. 68. And some of the chief fathers, when they came to the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, became of their own accord the house of GOD, to set it in his place. 69. And they gave to the treasury according to their substance threescore and one thousand talents, and five thousand pounds of silver, and an hundred priests' garments. 70. And the priests, and the Levites, and some of the people, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinims, sat down in their cities, and all Israel in their cities. (Ezra) Chapter 3 From the altar of burnt offering. Feast of Tabernacles and Foundation of the Temple. 1. And when the seventh month was come, and the children of Israel were in their cities, the people came together as one man to Jerusalem. 2. And Jeshua the son of Jozadak arose, and his brethren the priests, and the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and built the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God. 3. And they set up the altar upon his throne, (for there was a terror among them of the people of the countries,) and offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD morning and evening. 4. And they kept the feast of tabernacles, as it is written, and offered burnt offerings every day by number, according to the manner, every day his offering, 5. Afterward also the daily burnt offerings, and the new moons, and all the feasts of the LORD which were hallowed, and all manner of freewill offerings, which they offered freely unto the LORD. 6. On the first day of the seventh month they began to offer burnt offerings unto the LORD. But the foundation of the temple of the LORD was not yet laid. 7. And they gave money unto the masons, and to the carpenters, and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre, to bring cedar wood from Lebanon to the sea to Japho, according to the commandment of Cyrus king of Persia unto them. 8. And it came to pass in the second year of their going to the house of God to Jerusalem, in the second month, that Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and the rest of their brethren the priests and the Levites, and all that came out of the prison to Jerusalem, set the Levites twenty years old and upward to do the work of the house of the LORD. 9. And Jeshua stood with his sons and his brethren, and Kadmiel with his sons, and the children of Judah as a fine man, to do the work of the house of God, even the children of Henadad with their children, and their brethren the Levites. 10. And when the builders had laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, the priests clothed with trumpets, and the Levites the children of Asaph with cymbals, stood praising the LORD with the song of David king of Israel. 11. And they sang together with praise and thanksgiving unto the LORD, because he is good, and his mercy endureth for ever upon Israel. And all the people sang aloud with praise unto the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. 12. But many of the priests and Levites and fathers of old, which had seen the former house, and now this house was founded before their eyes, they wept aloud. But many of them shouted with joy, so that the shout went up, 13. That the people might not know the sound of rejoicing before the cry of weeping among the people: for the people sounded with a loud voice, and the cry was heard afar off. (Ezra) Chapter 4 The enemies of the Jews have hindered the building of the temple. 1. And when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the children of the prison were building the temple unto the LORD God of Israel, 2. And they came to Zerubbabel, and to the chief fathers, and said unto them: We will build with you, for we seek your God, as ye do: and we have not sacrificed since the days of Assar Haddon king of Assyria, which brought us up. 3. But Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and the rest of the chief fathers of Israel, answered them: It is not fitting for us or you to build the house of our God, but we will build only to the LORD, the God of Israel, as Cyrus king of Persia commanded us. 4. And the people of the land restrained the hand of the people of Judah, and discouraged them from building. 5. And they hired counselors against them, and prevented their counsel, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, unto the kingdom of Darii king of Persia. 6. For when Ahasuerus was king, in the beginning of his reign, they wrote a charge against them of Judah and Jerusalem. 7. And in the days of Arthahsastha wrote Bislam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their council, unto Arthahsastha king of Persia. And the writing of the letter was written in Syriac, and was interpreted in Syriac. 8. And Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe wrote this letter against Jerusalem unto Arthazer the king: 9. We, Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and others of the council of Dinah, and of Apharsah, and of Tarpla, and of Persia, and of Arach, and of Babylon, and of Shushan, and of Deha, and of Elam 10. And the rest of the people, whom the great and renowned Asnaphar brought over, and set them in the cities of Samaria, and in other cities on this side the river, and in Canaan. 11. And this is the substance of the letter which they sent unto Arthahsaxerxes the king: Thy servants, the men that are on this side the river, and in Canaan. 12. Let it be known unto the king, that the Jews which are come up from thee unto us are come to Jerusalem, to the rebellious and wicked city, and build it, and make the walls thereof, and bring it up out of the ground. 13. Now therefore let it be known unto the king, that when this city is built, and the walls thereof rebuilt, they shall not give the treasury, nor the toll, nor the yearly tribute; and the taking thereof shall be a hurt to kings. 14. But now that we all are present, having destroyed the temple, we would no longer see the king's reproach: therefore let us send and let it be known unto the king, 15. Let it be searched in the book of the chronicles of thy fathers, and thou shalt find in the book of the same chronicles, and shalt know that this city is rebellious and hurtful unto kings and countries, and make others also to fall away of old time, wherefore the city is also destroyed. 16. Therefore let it be known unto the king, that wheresoever this city is built, and the walls thereof are made, thou shalt not retain any thing of it on this side the river. 17. Then the king sent an answer to Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their council that dwelt in Samaria, and to the rest that were beyond the river; peace and salutation. 18. the letter which ye have sent us is publicly read before me. 19. And I commanded that they should search. And it hath been found, that this city of old time hath rebelled against the kings, and there is rebellion and sedition therein. 20. And there were mighty kings in Jerusalem, which ruled over all that was beyond the river, and gave them the tribute, and the treasury, and the yearly interest. 21. Do therefore according to this commandment: Forbid these men that the city be not built, until I give the commandment. 22. Take heed therefore that ye be not negligent therein; lest harm come unto the king. 23. And it came to pass, when the letter of king Arthur was read before Rehum, and Shimshai the scribe, and their council, that they went up in haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews, and rebuked them with their arm and with violence. 24. And he ceased from the work of the house of God which was in Jerusalem, and continued until the second year of Darii king of Persia. (Ezra) Chapter 5 Continuation of the temple construction. 1. And Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel. 2. Then arose Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God at Jerusalem, and with them the prophets of God, which strengthened them. 3. At that time there came unto them Thathnai the governor on this side the river, and Sthar- bosnai, and their council, and said thus unto them: Who commanded you to build this house, and to make the walls thereof? 4. And we told them the names of the men that did this work. 5. But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they should not be rebuked, till the matter should come to Darium, and a writing should come again concerning it. 6. Now this is the substance of the letter of Thathnai the governor on this side the river, and of Sthar-bosnai, and of their council of Apharsah, which were on this side the river, unto king Darium. 7. And the words which they sent unto him were these; All peace to Dario the king. 8. Let it be known unto the king, that we are come into the land of Judah, unto the house of the great God, which they build with all manner of stones, and beams are laid in the walls thereof; and the work is done by their hand. 9. And we asked the elders, saying thus unto them, Who commanded you to build this house, and to make the walls thereof? 10. And we asked their names, that we might know them unto thee, and have described the names of the men that were their rulers. 11. And they gave us these words in answer, saying: We are servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house which was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built, and set it up. 12. And when our fathers provoked God to anger from heaven, he delivered them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon the Chaldean, who brake down this house, and carried the people away to Babylon. 13. But in the first year of Cyrus king of Babylon the same king commanded Cyrus to build this house of GOD. 14. For the vessels of gold and silver which were in the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple of Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, Cyrus the king took them out of the temple of Babylon, and gave them to Sheshbazzar by name, whom he made governor; 15. And said unto him, Take these vessels, and go, and bring them into the temple at Jerusalem, and build the house of God in his place. 16. And the same Sheshbazzar came, and laid the foundation of the house of God at Jerusalem. Since that time they have been building, but it is not yet finished. 17. If it please the king therefore, let him search the king's treasury, which is at Babylon, whether it be the commandment of Cyrus the king to build the house of God at Jerusalem; and send unto us the king's opinion concerning it. (Ezra) Chapter 6 Completion and dedication of the temple. 1. Then Darius the king commanded that a search should be made in the king's treasury, which was at Babylon. 2. And there was found at Ahmetha in the castle that is in Media a book, and there was a story written therein: 3. In the first year of Cyrus the king commanded Cyrus to build the house of God in Jerusalem in the place of sacrifice, and to lay the foundation thereof threescore cubits high, and threescore cubits broad, 4. And three walls of all manner of stone, and one wall of wood: and the food shall be of the king's house. 5. And the vessels of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple of Jerusalem, and brought them to Babylon, shall be restored, and brought again into the temple of Jerusalem, into their place in the house of God. 6. Now therefore get thee far from them, thou, Thathnai, keeper of the land on the other side of the river, and Sthar-bosnai, and ye council of Apharsah, which are on the other side of the river. 7. Let them work in the house of God, that the governors of the Jews and their elders may build the house of God in his place. 8. Also it is commanded of me, what they shall do unto the elders of Judah to build the house of GOD; that they take of the king's goods out of the rents that are beyond the river, with diligence, and give them unto the people, and not hinder them. 9. And if they have need of calves, or of lambs, or of goats, for a burnt offering unto the LORD from heaven, or of wheat, or of salt, or of wine, or of oil, after the manner of the priests which are at Jerusalem, they shall give them their due daily; and it shall not be done unadvisedly, 10. That they may offer for a sweet savour unto God from heaven, and pray for the king's life, and for his children. 11. This commandment is done of me. And whosoever shall change these words, of his house shall a beam be taken, and set up, and he shall be hanged thereon: and his house shall be condemned for the deed. 12. And let the God that dwelleth in heaven destroy all the kings and people that stretch forth his hand to change and to destroy the house of God which is in Jerusalem. I, Darius, have commanded this to be done diligently. 13. This was diligently done by Thathnai the governor on the other side of the river, and by Sthar-bosnai with their counsel, to whom Darius the king had sent. 14. And the ancients of the Jews built, and it came to pass by the prophecy of Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, that they built, and set up according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darii, and Arthashta, kings of Persia; 15. And they finished the house until the third day of the month Adar, which was the sixth year of the reign of king Darii. 16. And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the prison, kept the dedication of the house of God with joy. 17. And they offered for the dedication of the house of God an hundred calves, and two hundred lambs, and four hundred kids of the goats, and twelve kids of the goats for a sin offering for all Israel, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. 18. And they set the priests in their charge, and the Levites in their charge, to minister unto God, which is in Israel, as it is written in the book of Moses. 19. And the children of the prison kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the first month. 20. For the priests and the Levites had purified themselves, that they were all clean as one man: and they killed the passover for all the children of the prison, and for their brethren the priests, and for themselves. 21. And the children of Israel, which were come again out of the prison, and all that were separated unto them from the uncleanness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of Israel, did eat 22. And they kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with gladness: for the LORD had made them glad, and had turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, that they might be strengthened in the work of the house of GOD, who is the God of Israel. (Ezra) Chapter 7 Ezra gets permission and promotion to order the service, 1. According to these acts in the kingdom of Arthahsashtas king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, went up from Babylon, 2. The son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub, 3. The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth, 4. The son of Seraiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bubi, 5. The son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, the chief priest, 6. Who was a skillful scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given. And the king gave him all that he required, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him. 7. And there went up some of the children of Israel, and of the priests, and of the Levites, and of the singers, and of the porters, and of the Nethinims, unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Arthashta the king. 8. And they came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which is the seventh year of the king. 9. For in the first day of the first month he was counselled to go up from Babylon; and in the first day of the fifth month he came to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of God upon him. 10. For Ezra sent his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do and teach in Israel statutes and judgments. 11. And this is the substance of the letter which Arthaxerxes the king gave unto Ezra the priest the scribe, which was a teacher in the words of the LORD, and in his commandments concerning Israel: 12. Arthahsastha, king of kings, peace and salutation unto Ezra the priest and scribe in the law of GOD from heaven! 13. And it is commanded of me that all they that are of free will in my kingdom, of the people of Israel, and of the priests, and of the Levites, should go up to Jerusalem, that they should go with thee, 14. Sent by the king and the seven counsellors to visit Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of GOD, which is under thine hand, 15. And thou shalt take silver and gold, which the king and his counsellors shall freely give unto the God of Israel, whose tabernacle is at Jerusalem, 16. And all the silver and gold that thou canst find in all the country of Babylon, with that which the people and the priests freely give unto the house of GOD at Jerusalem. 17. Take all these, and buy diligently of the same money calves, and lambs, and he goats, and meat offering, and drink offerings, to offer upon the altar of the house of your God which is at Jerusalem. 18. And whatsoever it shall please thee and thy brethren to do with the rest of the money, do it according to the will of your God. 19. And the vessels which are given thee for the service of the house of thy God, deliver them up before God in Jerusalem. 20. And whatsoever more shall be needful for the house of thy God, which it shall befall thee to spend, let it be given out of the king's chamber. 21. I, king Arthahsastha, have commanded these things unto the treasurers on the other side of the river, that whatsoever Ezra shall require of you, the priest and scribe in the law of GOD from heaven, that ye do diligently, 22. To an hundred talents of silver, and to an hundred measures of wheat, and to an hundred baths of wine, and to an hundred baths of oil and salt without measure. 23. All things that pertain unto the law of God from heaven, to do them diligently unto the house of God from heaven, lest wrath come upon the king's kingdom, and upon his children. 24. And let it be known unto you, that ye have no power to lay interest, or toll, or yearly rent, upon any priest, or Levite, or singer, or porter, or Nethinim, or servant, in the house of this God. 25. And thou, Ezra, according to the wisdom of thy God, which is under thine hand, appoint judges and officers to judge all the people that are beyond the waters, all they that know the law of thy God; and they that know it not, teach them. 26. And whosoever shall not diligently do the law of thy God, and the law of the king, he shall have his sentence for the deed, whether it be to death, or to the eight, or to the penance of the estate, or to prison. 27. Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers, which hath inspired the king to adorn the house of God which is at Jerusalem, 28. And he showed me mercy in the sight of the king, and in the sight of his counsellors, and in the sight of all the king's mighty men. And I was confident in the hand of the LORD my God upon me, and gathered the heads of Israel to go up with me. (Ezra) Chapter 8 Ezra's journey to Jerusalem is accomplished. 1. These are the heads of their fathers that were reckoned, which came up with me from Babylon in the days of the reign of Arthasheth king: 2. Of the sons of Phinehas, Gershom; of the sons of Ithamar, Daniel; of the sons of David, Hattus. 3. Of the sons of Shechaniah, the sons of Pareos: Zechariah, and with him fifty and one men; 4. Of the sons of Pahathmoab, Elioenai the son of Zerahiah, and with him two hundred men; 5. Of the sons of Shechaniah, the son of Jehaziel, and with him three hundred men; 6. Of the sons of Adin-ebed, the son of Jonathan, and with him fifty sons of men. 7. Of the children of Elam; Jezaiah the son of Athaliah, and with him seventy men; 8. Of the sons of Shephatiah; Zebadiah the son of Michael, and with him fourscore men; 9. Of the sons of Joab, Obadiah the son of Jehiel, and with him two hundred and eighteen men; 10. Of the sons of Selomith, the son of Jehoshaphat, and with him an hundred and threescore men; 11. Of the sons of Bebai; Zechaniah the son of Bebai, and with him twenty and eight men; 12. Of the sons of Asgad: Johanan the youngest son, and with him an hundred and ten men; 13. Of the last sons of Adonikam; and their names were Eliphelet, and Jeiel, and Shemaiah, and threescore men with them; 14. Of the sons of Bigevai; Uthai and Zabud, and with them seventy men. 15. And I gathered them unto the river that cometh to Aheva, and they abode there three days. And when I had taken heed of the people, and of the priests, I found no Levites there. 16. And I sent Eliezer, and Ariel, and Shemaiah, and Elnathan, and Jarib, and Elnathan, and Nathan, and Zechariah, and Meshullam, the rulers, and Jehoiarib, and Elnathan, the teachers; 17. And I sent them out to Iddo the chief to Casphiah, to fetch us servants in the house of our God. And I commanded them to speak unto Iddo, and to his brethren the Nethinims, at Casphiah. 18. And they brought us, according to the good hand of our God upon us, a wise man of the sons of Maheli, the son of Levi, the son of Israel, Sherebiah, with his sons and his brethren, eighteen; 19. And Hashabiah, and with him Isaiah of the children of Meran, with his brethren and their sons, twenty; 20. And of the Nethinims, whom David and the princes gave to minister unto the Levites, two hundred and twenty, all called by name. 21. And I proclaimed a fast there by the waters of Aheva, to humble ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our children, and for all our substance. 22. For I was ashamed to require of the king an escort and horsemen, to help us against the enemy in the way. For we had said unto the king, The hand of our God is best upon all them that seek him, and his strength and wrath upon all them that forsake him. 23. So we fasted, and sought these things of our God: and he hearkened unto us. 24. And I separated twelve of the chief priests, Sherebiah and Hashabiah, and with them ten of their brethren. 25. And he weighed unto them the silver, and the gold, and the vessels for the offering of the house of our God, which the king, and his counsellors, and his princes, and all Israel that were present, had given for the offering. 26. And he weighed under their hand six hundred and fifty talents of silver, and an hundred talents of silver vessels, and an hundred talents of gold, 27. Twenty gilded vessels of a thousand shekels, and two good vessels of brass, precious, pure as gold. 28. And he said unto them: Ye are holy unto the LORD; so are the vessels holy, and the silver and gold freely given unto the LORD your fathers' God. 29. Watch ye therefore, and keep it, until ye have weighed it before the chief priests, and the Levites, and the chief fathers of Israel, which are at Jerusalem, in the treasuries of the house of the LORD. 30. And the priests and the Levites took the silver that was weighed, and the gold, and the vessels, to bring them to Jerusalem unto the house of our God. 31. So we departed from the river Aheva on the twelfth day of the first month, to go to Jerusalem. And the hand of our God was upon us, and delivered us out of the hand of the enemies, and from them that kept upon us in the way. 32. And they came to Jerusalem, and abode there three days. 33. And on the fourth day the silver and the gold and the vessels were weighed into the house of our God by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest, and with him Eleazar the son of Phinehas, and with them Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Benui the Levite, 34. According to the number and weight of every one: and the weight was all described at that time. 35. And the children of the prison, which were come out of the prison, offered burnt offerings unto the LORD God of Israel; twelve bullocks for all Israel, ninety and six rams, seventy and seven lambs, twelve he goats for a sin offering, all for a burnt offering unto the LORD. 36. And they delivered the king's commandment unto the king's officers, and to the governors on this side the river. And they exalted the people and the house of God. (Ezra) Chapter 9 Ezra's prayer of confession and repentance. 1. When all these things were made ready, the princes came unto me, and said: The people of Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, are not separated from the nations of the countries according to their abominations, even the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Ammonites, and the Moabites, and the Egyptians, and the Amorites; 2. For they have taken their daughters, and their sons, and have made the holy seed common with the nations of the countries. And the hand of the princes and rulers was the chiefest in this iniquity. 3. When I heard these things, I rent my clothes and my garment, and plucked off my hair and my beard, and sat by myself. 4. And all that feared the word of the LORD God of Israel were gathered unto me because of the great transgression: and I sat alone until the evening sacrifice. 5. And at the evening sacrifice I arose out of my affliction, and rent my clothes and my garment, and fell upon my knees, and spread out my hands unto the LORD my God, 6. And said, My God, I am ashamed, and I shrink from lifting up mine eyes unto thee, my God: for our iniquity is increased upon our head, and our sin is great unto heaven. 7. From the days of our fathers we have been in great trespass unto this day: and for our iniquity we and our kings and our priests are delivered into the hand of the kings of the countries, into the sword, and into prison, and into spoil, and into shame of countenance, as it is this day. 8. But now there hath been a little and sudden grace from the LORD our God, that there hath escaped from us a remnant, that he should give us a nail in his holy place, that our God should enlighten our eyes, and give us a little life, because we are servants. 9. For we are servants, and our God hath not forsaken us, though we were servants; and hath shewed mercy unto us in the sight of the kings of Persia, to give us life, and to exalt the house of our God, and to set up the spoil thereof, and to give us a fence in Judah and Jerusalem. 10. Now what shall we say, our God, after this, that we have forsaken thy commandments? 11. Which thou commandedst by thy servants the prophets, saying, The land wherein ye come to inherit is an unclean land, through the uncleanness of the nations of countries in their abominations, that they have made it full of uncleanness here and there? 12. Ye shall not therefore give your daughters unto their sons, neither shall ye take their daughters from your sons, neither shall ye seek their peace nor their good for ever: that ye may be mighty, and eat the good of the land, and inherit it for your children for ever. 13. And after all that is come upon us for our wicked works, and for our great trespasses, thou, our God, hast spared our iniquity, and hast given us salvation, as it is written. 14. But we have turned back, and have forsaken thy commandments, and have made friends with the nations of these abominations. Wilt thou then be wroth with us, until it be ended, that there be no remnant, nor salvation? 15. O LORD God of Israel, thou art righteous: for we are left a salvation, as it is this day. Behold, we are before thee in our trespasses: for this is no standing before thee. (Ezra) Chapter 10 The foreign wives are separated from the Israelites. 1. And it came to pass, as Ezra prayed, and wept confessedly, and lay before the house of God, that there gathered unto him out of Israel a very great congregation of men, and women, and children: for the people wept greatly. 2. And Zechaniah the son of Jehiel, of the children of Elam, answered and said unto Ezra, Well, we have transgressed against our God, in that we have taken strange wives of the people of the land. Now there is hope in Israel above this. 3. Let us therefore make a covenant with our God, that we may put away all women, and them that are born of them, according to the counsel of the LORD, and them that fear the commandments of our God, to do according to the law. 4. Arise therefore, for it is thy due: we will be with thee. Be of good cheer, and do it. 5. Then arose Ezra, and took an oath of the chief priests, and of the Levites, and of all Israel, that they should do according to this word. And they sware. 6. And Ezra arose before the house of God, and went into the chamber of Johanan the son of Eliasib. And when he was come thither, he did neither eat bread, nor drink water: for he mourned for the transgression of them that were taken captives. 7. And they sent a proclamation through Judah and Jerusalem unto all the children that were captives, that they should assemble themselves at Jerusalem. 8. And whosoever came not within three days after the counsel of the princes and elders, all his substance should be utterly destroyed, and he should be separated from the congregation of the captives. 9. And all the men of Judah and Benjamin gathered themselves together to Jerusalem in three days, that is, in the twentieth day of the ninth month. And all the people sat in the street before the house of God, trembling for the cause, and for the rain. 10. And Ezra the priest arose, and said unto them: Ye have transgressed in taking strange wives, to add to the iniquity of Israel: 11. Confess ye therefore unto the LORD God of your fathers, and do his pleasure. And ye shall separate yourselves from the people of the land, and from strange wives. 12. And all the congregation answered and said with a loud voice, As thou hast said unto us, so be it done. 13. But the people are many, and the weather is rainy, and they cannot stand without: neither is it the work of one day, or of two days: for we have done much of this transgression. 14. Let us appoint our rulers throughout the whole congregation, that all who have taken strange wives in our cities may come at appointed times, and the elders of every city and their judges with them, until the wrath of our God be turned from us for this cause. 15. And Jonathan the son of Asahel and Jehaziah the son of Tikvah were appointed over these things: and Meshullam and Habthai the Levites helped them. 16. And the children of the prison did so. And Ezra the priest, and the chief fathers of the house of their fathers, and all that were now called, separated them, and sat down on the first day of the tenth month to search out these things, 17. And they executed it upon all the men that had strange wives in the first day of the first month. 18. And they were found among the sons of the priests that had taken strange wives, even among the sons of Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren: Maesaiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah. 19. And they gave their hand to cast out the women, and to offer for their trespass offering one ram for their trespass. 20. Among the children of Immer, Hanani and Zebadiah. 21. Among the sons of Harim; Maaseiah, Elijah, Shemaiah, Jehiel, and Uzziah. 22. Among the sons of Pashur: Elioenai, Maeseiah, Ishmael, Nethaneel Jozabad, and Eleasa. 23. Among the Levites: Jehozabad, Shimei, and Delaiah (he is the climate), Pethahiah, Judah, and Eliezer. 24. among the singers: Eliasib. Among the goalkeepers: Sallum, Telem and Uri. 25. Of Israel among the children of Pareos: Ramah, Jesiah, Malchiah, Mejamin, Eleazar, Malchiah, and Benaiah. 26. Among the children of Elam: Mathan yea, Zechariah, Jehiel, Abdi, Jeremoth, and Elijah. 27. Among the sons of Sathu; Elioenai, Eliasib, Mathaniah, Jeremoth, Zabad, and Aziza. 28. And of the sons of Bebai; Johanan, and Hananiah, and Zabai, and Athlai. 29. Among the children of Bani; Meshullam, Malluch, Adaiah, Jashub, Seal, and Jeramoth. 30. Among the children of Pahath-moab: Adnah, Chelal, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mathaniah, Bezaleel, Benuis, and Manasseh. 31. Among the children of Harim; Eliezer, Jesiah, Malchiah, Shemaiah, Simeon, 32nd Benjamin, Malluch and Semarya. 33. Of the sons of Hazum; Mathnai, Mathatha, Shabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, and Shimei. 34. Among the children of Bani; Maedai, Amram, Huel, 35. Benaja, Bedja, Chelui, 36. Well, Meremoth, Eliasib, 37. Mathanja, Mathnai, Jaesan, 38. Bani, Benui, Simei, 39. Selemja, Nathan, Adaja,. 40. Machnadbai, Sasai, Sarai, 41. Asareel, Selemja, Samarja, 42. sallum, amariah and joseph. 43. Of the sons of Nebo; Jeiel, and Mathithiah, and Zabad, and Zebina, and Jaddai, and Joel, and Benaiah. 44. All these had taken strange wives; and there were some of these wives that had borne children. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Nehemiah (Nehemiah) ^ Chapter 1 Nehemiah's prayer for the children of Israel. 1. These are the tales of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. It came to pass in the month of Chisleu, in the twentieth year, that I was with Shushan in the castle, 2. And Hanani, one of my brethren, came with certain men of Judah. And I asked them how the Jews were that were saved, and were left of the prison, and how Jerusalem was? 3. And they said unto me, The remnant of the prison are there in the land in great mischief and reproach: the walls of Jerusalem are broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire. 4. And when I heard these words, I sat and wept, and mourned two days, and fasted, and prayed before the LORD from heaven. 5. And said, O LORD God from heaven, a great and terrible God, which keepeth covenant and mercy to them that love him, and keep his commandments, 6. Let thine ears be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I now pray before thee day and night for the children of Israel thy servants, confessing the sins of the children of Israel, which we have done against thee: and I and my father's house have sinned also: 7, We are gone mad, because we have not kept the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which thou commandedst thy servant Moses. 8. But remember the word which thou commandedst thy servant Moses, saying, If ye transgress, I will scatter you among the nations. 9. But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them, though ye be cast out unto the uttermost part of heaven, yet will I gather you from thence, and bring you into the place which I have chosen, that my name may dwell there. 10. For they are thy servants, and thy people, whom thou hast redeemed by thy great power and mighty hand. hand. 11. O LORD, let thine ear be attentive unto the prayer of thy servant, and unto the prayer of thy servants, which desire to fear thy name: and let thy servant prosper this day, and give him mercy in the sight of this man. For I was the king's servant. (Nehemiah) Chapter 2 Nehemiah obtains authority and letters to build Jerusalem. 1. In the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of the king Arthahsastha, when there was wine before him, I took up the wine, and gave it to the king: and I looked sadly before him. 2. And the king said unto me, Why lookest thou so evil? Art thou not sick? No, it is not that; but thou art in a bad spirit. And I was almost sore afraid. 3. And said unto the king: The king shall live for ever. Shall I not see evil? The city that is the house of the burying of my fathers lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire. 4. And the king said unto me, What demandest thou? Then I asked the God from heaven 5. And he said unto the king: Is it pleasing to the king and to thy servants before thee, that thou send me to Judah unto the city of the burying of my fathers, to build it? 6. And the king said unto me, and the queen that sat by him, How long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou return? And it pleased the king to send me. And I set him a time appointed. 7. And he said unto the king: If it please the king, let him give me letters unto the governors that are beyond the river, that they may convey me over, until I come into Judah, 8. And letters unto Assaph the king's lumberman, that he would give me wood for the beams of the gates of the palace, which are in the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house where I should go in. And the king gave me according to the good hand of my God upon me. 9. And when I was come to the governors beyond the river, I gave them the king's letters. And the king sent with me the captains and the horsemen. 10. And when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant of the Ammonites, heard it, it grieved them exceedingly that a man should come seeking good for the children of Israel. 11. And when I was come to Jerusalem, and had been there three days, 12. I rose up by night, and few men with me: for I told no man what my God had inspired me to do in Jerusalem: and there was no beast with me, except I rode. 13. And I went out by night unto the valley gate, before the dragon's fountain, and unto the dung gate: and I was grieved, because the walls of Jerusalem were broken down, and the gates were consumed with fire. 14. And I went over to the well gate, and to the king's pool; and there was not room for my beast to go under me. 15. And I went up the brook by night, and was sorry to see the walls so: and I turned again, and came home to the valley gate. 16. And the rulers knew not where I went, or what I did: for I had told nothing therefore unto the Jews, and to the priests, and to the counsellors, and to the rulers, and to the rest that wrought in the work. 17. And he said unto them: Ye see the evil wherein we are, that Jerusalem lieth desolate, and her gates are burned with fire: come, let us build the walls of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach. 18. And I told them the hand of my God, which was good upon me, and the words of the king, which he spake unto me. And they said, Let us therefore be up. And we built, and their hands were strengthened for good. 19. And when Saneballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the Ammonite servant, and Goshem the Arabian, heard it, they mocked us, and despised us, and said: What is this that ye do? Will ye again fall away from the king? 20. And I answered them, and said, The LORD from heaven will prosper us: for we his servants have risen up and builded; but ye have no part, nor right, nor remembrance in Jerusalem. (Nehemiah) Chapter 3 The construction of. Jerusalem goes on. 1. And Eliasib the high priest arose with his brethren the priests, and built the sheep gate, and sanctified it, and put in the doors thereof, and sanctified it unto the tower of Mea, even unto the tower of Hananeel. 2. And the men of Jericho built by him; and Shakhur the son of Imri built by him. 3. But the fish gate the children of Senaah built; they covered it, and put in the doors thereof, locks and bars. 4. And next unto them repaired Meremoth the son of Uriah, the son of Hakoz. And next unto them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah the son of Meshezabeel. And next unto them repaired Zadok the son of Baenah. 5. Next unto them built those of Thekoa, but their mighty ones brought not their necks to the service of their lords. 6. And the old gate repaired Jehoiada the son of Passover, and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah; and they covered it, and put in the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof. 7. And next unto them Melatiah of Gibeon, and Jadon of Merono, men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, built at the seat of the governor on this side the river. 8. And next unto him repaired Uzziel the son of Harhaiah the goldsmith. And next unto him repaired Hananiah the son of the apothecaries: and they repaired Jerusalem unto the broad wall. 9. And next unto him repaired Rephaiah the son of Hur, the ruler of the half quarter of Jerusalem. 10. And next unto him repaired Jedaiah the son of Harumaph over against his house. And next unto him repaired Hattus the son of Hazabeniah. 11. And Malchiah the son of Harim, and Hassub the son of Pahathmoab, built two pieces, and the tower by the furnace. 12. And next unto him repaired Shallum the son of Haloheh, the ruler of the half quarter of Jerusalem, he and his daughters. 13. And Hanun and the men of Sanoah built the valley gate, and set up the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and a thousand cubits of the wall unto the dung gate. 14. And the dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the chief of the four of the husbandmen; and he built it, and put in the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof. 15. And Shallum the son of Chal-hoze, the ruler of the four parts of Mizpah, built the gate of the well, and covered it, and put in the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall of the pool of Seloah by the king's garden, unto the steps that go down from the city of David. 16. And after him repaired Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half quarter of Bethzur, unto the sepulchres of David, and unto the pool of Azuiah, and unto the house of the mighty. 17. And after him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani; and next unto him repaired Hashabiah the ruler of the half quarter of Keilah in his quarter. 18. After him repaired their brethren Bavai the son of Henadad, the chief of the half quarter of Keilah. 19. And next unto him Ezer the son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah, built two pieces on the side toward the house of armour. 20. And after him in the mount repaired custom the son of Sabbath two pieces from the corner unto the door of Eliasib the high priest. 21. After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, the son of Hakoz, built two pieces from the door of Eliasib's house unto the end of Eliasib's house. 22. After him built the priests, the men of the regions. 23. After whom Benjamin built his house over against their house. And after him Azariah the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ananiah, built over against his house. 24. And after him repaired Benui the son of Henadad two pieces of the house of Azariah unto the corner, and unto the corner; 25. Palal the son of Uzai, over against the corner, and against the high tower that looketh out from the king's house, by the court of the prison. After him Pedaiah the son of Pareo. 26. And the Nethinims dwelt at Ophel unto the water gate eastward, where the tower looked out. 27. And after that the men of Thekoa built two pieces over against the great tower that standeth out, and unto the wall of Ophel. 28. And from the horse gate the priests built, every man against his own house. 29. After him repaired Zadok the son of Immer toward his house. And after him repaired Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah the porter against the morning. 30. After him repaired Hananiah the son of Shelemiah, and Hanun the son of Zalaph, the sixth, two pieces. And after him repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah against his coffer. 31. And after him repaired Malchiah the goldsmith's son unto the house of the Nethinims and the merchants, toward the gate of the council, and unto the hall of the corner. 32. And between the hall at the corner of the shaft gate built the goldsmiths and the merchants. (Nehemiah) Chapter 4 Construction continues even under the obstacles. 1. And when Sanballat heard that we built the walls, he was wroth, and very wroth: and he mocked the Jews. 2. And said before his brethren and the mighty men of Samaria, What do the fainting Jews? Will they be left thus? Will they sacrifice? Will they complete it one day? Will they make alive the stones that are heaps of dust and burned? 3. And Tobiah the Ammonite said by him, Let them build. If foxes came up, they would break down their stone wall. 4. Hear, O our God, how despised we are! Bring their shame upon their heads, that thou mayest bring them into contempt in the land of their prison! 5. Cover not their iniquity, neither blot out their sin from before thee: for they have provoked the builders. 6. But we built the walls, and joined them together unto the half of the height. And the people gained a heart to work. 7. And when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem were shut up, and that they had begun to make an atonement for the breaches, they were very wroth. 8. And they made a league of them all together, to come and fight against Jerusalem, and to err therein. 9. And we prayed unto our God, and set our guard against them day and night. 10. And Judah said, The strength of the beams is too weak, and the dust is too much; we cannot build upon the wall. 11. And our adversaries thought: They shall not know, nor see, till we come into the midst of them, and choke them, and hinder the work. 12. And the Jews that dwelt by them came and told us ten times, out of all the places where they dwelt about us, 13. And I set the people by their families, with their swords, and with their spears, and with their bows, in the lower places behind the wall, in the trenches. 14. And when I had looked, I arose, and said unto the counsellors, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Fear them not. Remember the great and terrible LORD, and fight for your brethren, and for your sons, and for your daughters, and for your wives, and for your houses. 15. And when our enemies heard that it was made known unto us, God destroyed their counsel. And we returned every man to the wall, every man to his work. 16. And it came to pass again, that half of the young men did the work, and half of them held spears, and shields, and bows, and armour: and the princes stood behind all the house of Judah, 17. Who built the wall, and bare the burden of them that laid it upon them: with one hand they did the work, and with the other they held the weapons. 18. And every one that builded had his sword upon his own. Sword girded on his And he that blew with the trumpet was beside me. 19: And I said unto the rulers, and to the princes, and to the rest of the people, The work is great and wide, and we are scattered abroad upon the wall, far from one another. 20. Now in what place ye hear the trumpet sound, thither gather yourselves unto us. Our God will fight for us; 21. So let us work at the work. And her half held the spears from the rising of the dawn, until the stars came forth. 22. And I said in those days unto the people, Let every man and his child dwell in Jerusalem by night, that we may keep the watch by night, and the work by day. 23. But I, and my brethren, and my lads, and the men of the guard behind me, did not put off our garments; we left bathing every man. (Nehemiah) Chapter 5 Nehemiah dismisses the complaints of the people. 1. And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews. 2. And there were some that said: Our sons and our daughters are many; let us take corn, and eat that we may live. 3. But some said: Let us move our fields, our vineyards, and our houses, and let us take grain in the harvest. 4. And some said: Let us lend money at interest unto the king upon our fields and upon our vineyards. 5. For the body of our brethren is as our body, and their children as our children: otherwise we would subject our sons and our daughters to service, and some of our daughters are already subject, and there is no wealth in our hands; neither would our fields and our vineyards be subject to another. 6. And when I heard their crying and their words, I was very wroth. 7. And my heart was in counsel with me, and I rebuked the counsellors and the rulers, and said unto them: Will ye practice usury one upon another? And I brought a great congregation against them. 8. And said unto them: We have bought our brethren the Jews, which were sold unto the Gentiles, according to our ability: and will ye also sell your brethren, whom we have bought unto us? Then they held their peace, and found nothing to answer. 9. And I said, It is not good that ye do this. Shall ye not walk in the fear of God for the reproach of the heathen our enemies? 10. I also, and my brethren, and my young men, have given them money, and corn: but we have abated usury. 11. Restore therefore this day unto them their fields, and their vineyards, and their oliveyards, and their houses, and the hundredth part of the money, and of the corn, and of the wine, and of the oil, which ye have multiplied of them. 12. And they said: We will give it again, and will require nothing of them, and will do as thou hast said. And I called unto the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do so. 13. And I shook out my bosom, and said, So let God shake out every man from his house, and from his work, who hath not kept this word, that he may be shaken out, and be empty. And all the congregation said, Amen; and they praised the LORD. And the people did so. 14. And from the time that I was commanded to be a governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the thirty and second year of Arthahsaxerxes the king, even twelve years, I nourished not myself nor my brethren with the food of the governors. 15. For the former governors that were before me had afflicted the people, and taken of them bread, and wine, and forty shekels of silver; and their young men had taken the people by force. But I did no such thing for the fear of God. 16. Neither did I work upon the wall, nor buy any field: and all my lads had to come there to the work in abundance. 17. And there were at my table an hundred and fifty of the Jews and rulers, which came unto me out of the heathen that are round about us. 18. And they made me one bullock that day, and six chosen. And sheep, and fowls, and all manner of wine for ten days in the midst thereof. And I asked not yet the fare of the governors: for the service was heavy upon the people. 19. Remember me, O my God, for the best of all that I have done to this people. (Nehemiah) Chapter 6 Nehemiah, by his prudence, drives back the hindrances at work. 1. And it came to pass, when Saneballat, and Tobiah, and Gosem the Arabian, and other of our enemies, heard that I had built the wall, and that there was no more breach in it, though I had not at that time hanged the doors within the gates, 2. And sent Saneballat and Gosem unto me, saying, Come, and let us meet together in the villages, in the plains of Ono. But they thought to do me evil. 3. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I have a great work to do, and cannot come down: let the work remain, when I shall put away my hand, and come down unto you. 4. And they sent unto me four times in this manner, and I answered them in this manner. 5. And Saneballat sent unto me his lad the fifth time, with an open letter in his hand. 6. In it was written: It is come before the Gentiles, and Gosem hath spoken it, that thou and the Jews intend to fall away, wherefore thou buildest the wall, and wilt be their king in these things; 7. And thou hast appointed thee prophets, which shall cry out of thee in Jerusalem, saying, He is the king of Judah. Now these things shall come before the king. Now therefore come, and let us reason together. 8. And I sent unto him, saying, These things which thou sayest have not come to pass; thou hast devised them out of thine own heart. 9. For they all sought to make us fearful, and thought: Let them put away their hands from business, that they work not. But I strengthened my hand the more. 10. And I came into the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabeel; and he shut himself up, and said, Let us come together in the house of GOD in the midst of the temple, and shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay thee, and will come by night to slay thee. 11. And I said, Shall such a man flee? Shall such a man as I be go into the temple, that he may live? I will not go in. 12. For I perceived that God had not sent him. For he prophesied against me, but Tobiah and Saneballat had given him money. 13. Therefore he took money, that I might be afraid, and do so, and sin, that they might cry evil, and blaspheme me. 14. Remember, O my God, Tobiah, and Saneballat, according to these his works; and also Noadiah the prophetess, and the rest of the prophets, which have sought to dissuade me. 15. And the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty and two days. 16. And when all our enemies heard it, all the heathen that were round about us were afraid, and their courage failed them: for they perceived that this work was of GOD. 17. Also in those days were many of the princes of Judah, whose letters went to Tobiah, and from Tobiah to them. 18. For there were many in Judah that were sworn unto him: for he was the brother in law of Zechaniah the son of Arah; and Johanan his son had the daughter of Meshullam the son of Berechiah. 19. And they spake good of him before me, and uttered my words unto him. So Tobiah sent letters to dissuade me. (Nehemiah) Chapter 7 Guardians of the city. Number and gifts of the people. 1. And when we had built the wall, I set up the doors, and appointed the porters, and the singers, and the Levites. 2. And I commanded Hanani my brother, and Hananiah the palace governor of Jerusalem, (for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many others.) 3. And said unto them: They shall not open the gates of Jerusalem until the sun be hot: and when they work yet, they shall shut the doors, and: lock them. And there were appointed watchmen of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every man for his watch, and for his house. 4. And the city was large and spacious, but the people were few therein, and the houses were not built. 5. And my God put it into my heart, that I should gather together the counsellors, and the rulers, and the people, to reckon them. And I found a register of their reckoning, 6. Who came up from the prison which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon carried away, and dwelt at Jerusalem, and in Judah, every man in his own city; 7. And were come with Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and Nehemiah, and Azariah, and Raamiah, and Nahemani, and Mordecai, and Bilsan, and Mispereth, and Bigevai, and Nehum, and Baena. This is the number of the men of the people of Israel. 8. The children of Pareo were two thousand and two hundred and seventy; 9. The children of Shephatiah, three hundred seventy and two; 10. Of the children of Arah, six hundred fifty and two; 11. Of the sons of Pahathmoab, among the sons of Jeshua and Joab, two thousand eight hundred and eighteen; 12. Of the children of Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four; 13: of the children of Sathu, eight hundred and forty-five; 14. Of the children of Sakai, seven hundred threescore and ten; 15. Of the children of Benui, six hundred forty and eight; 16. Of the children of Bebai, six hundred twenty and eight; 17. Of the children of Asgad, two thousand three hundred twenty and two; 18. Of the children of Adonikam, six hundred threescore and seven; 19. Of the children of Bigevai, two thousand and threescore and seven; 20. The children of Adin, six hundred fifty and five; 21. Of the sons of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety and eight; 22. Of the children of Hasum, three hundred twenty and eight; 23. The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty and four; 24. The children of Hariph, an hundred and twelve; 25. of the children of Gibeon ninety and five; 26. Of the men of Bethlehem and Netophah, an hundred threescore and eight; 27. Of the men of Anathoth, an hundred twenty and eight; 28. Of the men of Beth-asmaveth forty and two; 29. Of the men of Kiriathjearim, Caphira, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty and three; 30.. Of the men of Ramah and Gaba, six hundred twenty and one; 31. Of the men of Michmas, an hundred twenty and two; 32. Of the men of Bethel, and Ai, an hundred twenty and three; 33. Of the men of the other Nebo, fifty and two; 34. The children of the other Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four; 35. Of the children of Harim, three hundred and twenty; 36.. Of the children of Jereho, three hundred forty and five; 37. Of the children of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, seven hundred twenty and one; 38. Of the children of Senaa, three thousand nine hundred thirty. 39. The priests: of the children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred threescore and three; 40. of the children Always a thousand and fifty-two; 41. Of the children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven; 42. Of the children of Harim, a thousand and seventeen. 43. The Levites: Of the children of Jeshua of Kadmiel, among the children of Hodua, seventy and four. 44. the singers: of the children of Assaph, an hundred and forty-eight. 45. The keepers of the gate were: The children of Shallum, the children of Ater, the children of Thalmon, the children of Akub, the children of Hatita, the children of Sobai, all of them an hundred thirty and eight. 46. The Nethinim: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabaoth, 47. the children. Keros, the children Sia, the children Padon, 48. The children of Libana, the children of Hagaba, the children of Salmai, 49. The children of Hanan, the children of Giddel, the children of Gahar, 50. The children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, 51. The children of Gasam, the children of Uzzah, the children of Passeah, 52. The children of Besai, the children of Megunim, the children of Nephussim, 53. The children of Bakbuk, the children of Hakupha, the children of Harhur, 54. The children of Bazlith, the children of Mehida, the children of Harsa, 55. The children of Barkos, the children of Sissera, the children of Thamah, 56. The children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha. 57. The children of Solomon's servants were: The children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Prida, 58. the children of Jaela, the children of Darkon, the children of Giddel, 59. The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hatil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Amon. 60. Of all the Nethinims and. The children of Solomon's servants were three hundred ninety and two. 61. And these also went up with them, Mithel, Melah, Thelharsa, Cherub-Addon, and Immer: but they could not shew the house of their fathers, nor their seed, whether they were of Israel: 62. And the children of Delaiah, and the children of Tobiah, and the children of Nekoda, were six hundred forty and two. 33. And of the priests were the sons of Habaiah, the sons of Hakoz, the sons of Barzillai, who took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called by her name. 64. These sought their register of birth: and when they found it not, they were loosed from the priesthood. 65. And Hathirsatha said unto them, They shall not eat of the most holy things, till a priest arise with light and judgment. 46. Of all the congregation as one man there were forty and two thousand three hundred and threescore; 67. Except their menservants and their maidservants, which were seven thousand three hundred thirty and seven: and they had two hundred forty and five singers and singers' wives, 68. Seven hundred and thirty-six race, two hundred and forty-five mouths, 69. Four hundred thirty and five camels, six thousand seven hundred and twenty asses. 70. and some of the chief fathers gave for the work. Hathirsatha gave to the treasury a thousand shekels, fifty basins, five hundred and thirty priests' garments. 71. And some of the chief fathers gave to the treasury of the work twenty thousand talents, two thousand and two hundred pounds of silver. 72. And the other people gave twenty thousand shekels, and two thousand pounds of silver, and threescore and seven priests' garments. 73. And the priests, and the Levites, and the porters, and the singers, and some of the people, and the Nethinims, and all Israel, sat down in their cities. (Nehemiah) Chapter 8 Nehemiah and Ezra direct the service. 1. And it came to pass, when the seventh moon was come, and the children of Israel were in their cities, that all the people gathered themselves together as one man unto the broad street before the water gate, and spake unto Ezra the scribe to fetch the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD commanded Israel. 2. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation, both men and women, and all that heard it, on the first day of the seventh month, 3. And he read within in the broad street that is before the water gate, from light in the morning until noon, before man and woman, and whosoever might hear. And the ears of all the people were turned unto the book of the law. 4. And Ezra the scribe stood upon a high wooden throne, which they had made for preaching: and next unto him stood Mathithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand; and on his left hand Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchiah, Hazum, Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5. And Ezra opened the book before all the people: for he towered above all the people: and when he had opened it, all the people stood. 6. And Ezra praised the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, amen, with their hands upward: and they bowed themselves, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground. 7. And Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, and Jamin, and Akub, and Zabthai, and Hodiah, and Maesiah, and Clita, and Azariah, and Jozabad, and Hanan, and Plaiah, and the Levites, made the people to observe the law: and the people stood in their place. 8. And they read in the book of the law of God plainly and understandingly, that they understood it when they read it. 9. And Nehemiah, which is Hathirsatha, and Ezra the priest, the scribe, and the Levites, which made the people watch, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God: therefore be not sad, and weep not. For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law. 10. Therefore said he unto them: Go ye, eat that which is fat, and drink that which is sweet; and send part also unto them that have nothing prepared for them: for this day is holy unto our Lord: wherefore be not dismayed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. 11. And the Levites quieted all the people, and said, Be still, for the day is holy; be not troubled. 12. And all the people went to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth: for they had understood the words which were made known unto them. 13. And the next day the chief fathers of all the people, and the priests, and the Levites, gathered themselves together unto Ezra the scribe, to teach them the words of the law. 14. And they found it written in the law, that the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses that the children of Israel should dwell in tabernacles for the feast of the seventh month. 15. And they made a noise and proclaimed it in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go ye out into the mountains, and gather olive branches, and balsam branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written. 16. And the people went out, and took, and made them tabernacles, every man upon his own roof, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the broad street of the water gate, and in the broad street of the gate of Ephraim. 17. And all the congregation of them that came again out of prison made tabernacles, and dwelt therein. For the children of Israel had not done so since the days of Joshua the son of Nun unto this day: and there was very great joy. 18. And the book of the law of God was read every day from the first day even unto the last: and they kept the feast seven days, and on the eighth day they kept the congregation according to the manner. (Nehemiah) Chapter 9 The people's public penance. 1. On the four and twentieth day of this month came the children of Israel together, with fasting, and sackcloth, and earth upon them. 2. And they separated the seed of Israel from all the strange children, and went and confessed their sins, and the iniquity of their fathers. 3. And they arose in their place, and read in the book of the law of the LORD their God four times in the day: and they confessed, and worshipped the LORD their God four times in the day. 4. And the Levites arose on high, Jeshua, and Bani, and Kadmiel, and Shebaniah, and Buni, and Sherebiah, and Bani, and Chenani, and cried aloud unto the LORD their God. 5. And the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, and Bani, and Hashabeniah, and Sherebiah, and Hodiah, and Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, Arise, praise the LORD your God for ever and ever; and praise the name of thy glory, which is exalted, with all blessing and praise. 6. O LORD, thou only art he: thou hast made heaven, and the heaven of heavens, and all their host, the earth, and all that is therein, the seas, and all that is therein; thou hast made all things alive, and the heavenly host worshippeth thee. 7. Thou art the LORD God, which didst choose Abram, and brought him up from Ur of Chaldea, and called him Abraham. 8. And found his heart faithful before thee, and made a covenant with him to give unto his seed the land of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgothites: and thou hast kept thy word, for thou art righteous. 9. And thou sawest the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heardest their cry by the Red sea. 10. And thou didst signs and wonders unto Pharaoh, and unto all his servants, and unto all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they were proud against them, and hast made thee a name, as it is this day. 11. And thou hast rent the sea before them, and they went through dry in the midst of the sea, and cast their persecutors into the deep, as stones in mighty waters, 12. And led them in a pillar of cloud by day, and in a pillar of fire by night, to give them light in the way which they went. 13. And came down upon mount Sinai, and spake unto them from heaven, and gave a true statute, and a law, and good commandments, and statutes; 14. And made known unto them thy holy sabbath, and commanded them statutes, and judgments, and laws, by thy servant Moses; 15. And gave them bread from heaven when they hungered, and let water come out of the rock when they thirsted; and told them to go in and possess the land, whereon thou liftedst up thine hand to give them. 16. But our fathers became proud and stiff-necked, because they obeyed not thy commandments, 17. And refused to hear, neither remembered thy wonders which thou didst in them, but became stiff-necked, and lifted up their heads, and turned to their servitude in their impatience. But thou, my God, forgavest, and wast gracious, and merciful, and patient, and of great compassion, and forsakest them not. 18. And though they made a calf cast, and said: This is thy God, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and did great blasphemies, 19. Nor didst thou forsake them in the wilderness, according to thy great mercy; neither didst the pillar of cloud depart from them by day to lead them in the way, nor the pillar of fire by night to give them light in the way which they went. 20. And thou gavest them thy good spirit to instruct them; and thou turnedst not thy man from their mouth, and gavest them water when they thirsted. 21. Forty years didst thou feed them in the wilderness, that they lacked nothing. Their garments did not grow old, and their feet were not swollen. 22. And thou gavest them kingdoms and nations, and dividedst them hither and thither, and they took the land of Sihon king of Heshbon, and the land of Og king of Bashan. 23. And multiplied their children as the stars of heaven, and brought them into the land which thou hadst spoken unto their fathers to go in and possess it. 24. And the children went in, and possessed the land. And thou humbledst before them the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, and deliveredst them into their hand, and their kings, and the people of the land, to do with them according to their will. 25. And they obtained strong cities, and a fat land, and took houses full of all manner of good things, and wells digged, and vineyards, and oliveyards, and trees to eat of, the multitude thereof: and they did eat, and were filled, and grew fat, and lived in lasciviousness, through thy great goodness. 26. But they became disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast thy law behind them; and slew thy prophets, whom they testified that they should turn unto thee; and did great blasphemies. 27. Therefore thou gavest them into the hand of their enemies, which affrighted them. And in the time of their anguish they cried unto thee; and thou heardest them from heaven; and by thy great mercy gavest them saviours, which delivered them out of the hand of their enemies. 28. And when they were at rest, they turned to do evil in thy sight. And thou leftst them in the hand of their enemies, and they ruled over them. Then they returned, and cried unto thee: and thou heardest them from heaven, and deliveredst them many times according to thy great mercy. 29. And testified unto them, that they should return unto thy law. But they were proud, and obeyed not thy commandments; and sinned against thy statutes, (which a man doeth, and dwelleth therein;) and turned away their shoulders, and became stiffnecked, and obeyed not. 30. And thou hast kept them many years, and hast caused them to testify by thy spirit in thy prophets; but they have not heard. Therefore hast thou delivered them into the Thou gavest them into the hand of the nations of the countries. 31. But according to thy great mercy thou hast not made an end of them, nor forsaken them: for thou art a gracious and merciful God. 32. Now therefore, our God, thou great God, mighty and terrible, who keepest covenant and mercy, consider not all the trouble that hath befallen us, and our kings, princes, priests, prophets, fathers, and all thy people, from the time of the kings of Assyria unto this day. 33. Thou art righteous in all that thou hast brought upon us: for thou hast done right, but we have been wicked. 34. And our kings, and our princes, and our priests, and our fathers, have not done according to thy law, nor kept thy commandments, nor kept thy testimonies, which thou hast testified unto them. 35. And they have not served thee in their kingdom, and in thy great possessions which thou gavest them, and in the wide and fat land which thou hast set before them, and have not turned from their wickedness. 36. Behold, we are servants this day: and in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers to eat the fruits thereof, and the goods thereof, behold, we are servants within. 37. And his revenue is multiplied unto the kings which thou hast set over us for our sins: and they rule over our bodies and over our cattle according to their will, and we are in great distress. 38. And in all this we will make a firm covenant, and write, and cause our princes, and our Levites, and our priests, to seal it. (Nehemiah) Chapter 10 Sealing of the renewed covenant. 1. And the sealers were: Nehemiah Hathirsatha the son of Hachaliah, and Zidekiah, 2. Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah, 3. Pashur, Amariah, Malchia, 4. Hattus, Sebanja, Malluch, 5. Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah, 6. Daniel, Ginthon, Baruch, 7. Mesullam, Abia, Mejamin, 8. Maaziah, Bilgai, and Shemaiah: these were the priests. 9. And the Levites were: Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binui among the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel 10. and their brothers: Sechanja, Hodia, Klita, Plaja, Hanan, 11. Micah, Rehob, Hasabiah, 12. Zechur, Zerebiah, Zebaniah, 13. Hodia, Bani and Beninu. 14. The chief of the people were: Pareos, Pahath-Moab, Elam, Sathu, Bani, 15. Buni, Asgad, Bebai, 16. Adonia, Bigvai, Adin, 17. Ater, Hezekiah, Asur, 18. Hodia, Hasum, Bezai, 19. Hariph, Anathoth, Neubai, 20. Magpias, Mesullam, Hesir, 21. Mesesabeel, Zadok, Jaddua, 22. Platja, Hanan, Anaja, 23. Hosea, Hananiah, Hasub, 24. Halohes, Pilha, Sobek, 25. Rehum, Hasabna, Maeseja, 26. Ahia, Hanan, Anan, 27. Malluch, Harim and Baena. 28. And the rest of the people, the priests, and the Levites, and the porters, and the singers, and the Nethinims, and all that were separated from the people of the land unto the law of God, with their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, all that could understand, 29. And their mighty men received it for their brethren. And they came and sware, and bound themselves by oath to walk in the law of God, which was given by Moses the servant of God, to keep and to do according to all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, and the judgments of the LORD our sovereign, 30. And that we would not give our daughters unto the nations of the land, nor take their daughters from our sons; 31. Even if the people of the land bring merchandise and all manner of food to sell on the sabbath day, that we will not take it from them on the sabbath day and on the holy days; and that we will leave the seventh year free from all manner of burden. 32. And they laid a commandment upon us, that we should give the third part of a shekel yearly for the service of the house of our God, 33. For shewbread, and for a continual meat offering, and for a continual burnt offering, for the sabbath, and for the new moons, and for the solemn days, and for a sin offering, to make an atonement for Israel, and for all the business of the house of our God. 34. And we cast lots among the priests, and the Levites, and the people, for the offering of the wood to be brought unto the house of our God yearly, according to the houses of our fathers, for a time appointed, to burn upon the altar of the LORD our God, as it is written in the law, 35. And to bring yearly the firstfruits of our land, and the firstfruits of all the fruit of every tree, unto the house of the LORD. 36. And the firstlings of our sons, and of our cattle, as it is written in the law, and the firstlings of our oxen, and of our sheep; that we may bring all these unto the house of our God unto the priests that minister in the house of our God. 37. And we shall bring the firstfruits of our dough, and the firstfruits of our heave, and the fruit of every tree, and the wine, and the oil, unto the priests, into the treasuries of the house of our God; and the tithes of our land unto the Levites: and the Levites shall tithe in all the cities of our fields. 38. And the priest the son of Aaron shall have with the Levites also the tithes of the Levites, that the Levites may bring up the tithes of their tithes unto the house of our God into the treasury. 39. For the children of Israel and the children of Levi shall bring up the heaves of the corn, and of the wine, and of the oil, into the treasuries. There are the vessels of the sanctuary, and the priests that minister, and the porters, and the singers, that we leave not the house of our God. (Nehemiah) Chapter 11 Register of new inhabitants in the city and in the field. 1. And the chief of the people dwelt at Jerusalem. And the rest of the people cast lots, that of the ten a part might go to Jerusalem to dwell in the holy city, and nine parts in the cities. 2. And the people blessed all the men that were willing to dwell at Jerusalem. 3. These are the chief of the country, which dwelt at Jerusalem. And in the cities of Judah dwelt every man in his possession that was in their cities, even Israel, and the priests, and the Levites, and the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants. 4. And there dwelt at Jerusalem some of the children of Judah and Benjamin. Of the children of Judah; Athaiah the son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahelaleel, of the children of Parez; 5. And Maeshiah the son of Baruch, the son of Chal-hose, the son of Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Jehoiarib, the son of Zechariah, the son of Shiloni. 6. All the sons of Parez that dwelt at Jerusalem were four hundred threescore and eight, honest men. 7. These are the sons of Benjamin; Shallu the son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel, the son of Jeshaiah; 8. And after him Gabai, Sallai, nine hundred twenty and eight. 9. And Joel the son of Zichri was their ruler, and Judah the son of Hashnua over the other part of the city. 10. Of the priests dwelt Jedaiah the son of Jehoiarib, Jachin, 11. And Seraiah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, was ruler in the house of GOD. 12. And his brethren that worked in the house were eight hundred twenty and two. And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Plaliah, the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchiah, 13. And his brethren, captains among the fathers, were two hundred and forty and two. And Amassai the son of Azareel the son of Ahusai, the son of Mesillemoth, the son of Immer, 14. And his brethren, mighty men, were an hundred and twenty and eight. And their chief was Zabdiel the son of Gedolim. 15. Of the Levites: Shemaiah the son of Hashub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Bunni, 16. And Zabthai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, in the outward business of the house of God, 17. And Mathaniah the son of Micah, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, which was the chief to give thanks unto prayer; and Bakbukiah the other of his brethren, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun. 18. Of all the Levites that were in the holy city, two hundred fourscore and four. 19. And the porters, Akub and Talmon, and their brethren that kept the gates, were an hundred and seventy and two. 20. And the rest of Israel, the priests and the Levites, were in all the cities of Judah, every man in his inheritance. 21. And the Nethinims dwelt at Ophel: and Ziha and Gispa were of the Nethinims. 22. And the ruler over the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mathaniah, the son of Micah. Of the children of Asaph were singers for the business of the house of God. 23. For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that the singers should do faithfully every day his hire. 24. And Pethahiah the son of Mesabeel, of the sons of Zerah the son of Judah, was the king's commander in all the affairs of the people. 25. And of the children of Judah that were without in the villages of their land, some dwelt in Kiriath-arba, and in their daughters, and in Dibon, and in their daughters, and in Kabzeel, and in their villages. 26. and to Jesua, Molada, Beth-Palet, 27. hazar-sual, berseba and their daughters 28. And to Ziklag, and to Mochona, and to their daughters. 29. and to En-Rimmon, Zarega, Jeremuth, 30. Sanoah, and Adullam, and their villages, and Lachish, and their fields, and Azekah, and their daughters. And they encamped from Beersheba unto the valley of Hinnom. 31. And the children of Benjamin of Gaba dwelt at Michmash, and at Aiah, and at Bethel, and at their daughters. 32. and to Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah, 33. Hazor, Rama, Githaim, 34. Hadid, Ziboim, Neballat, 35. Lod, Ono and in the Zimmer Valley. 36. And certain of the Levites, which had part in Judah, dwelt among Benjamin. (Nehemiah) Chapter 12 Names of the priests and Levites. Dedication of the city. Order of the holy keepers. 1. These are the priests and the Levites that went up with Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua; Seraiah; Jeremiah, Ezra, 2. Amariah, Malluch, Hattus, 3. Sechanja, Rehum, Meremoth, 4. Iddo, Ginthoi, Abia, 5. Mejamin, Maadja, Bilga, 6. Shemaiah, Jehoiarib, Jedaiah, 7. Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, and Jedaiah. These were the chief among the priests and their brethren in the days of Jesus. 8. And the Levites were these: Jeshua, Benui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, and Mathaniah, about the thanksgiving, he and his brethren. 9. Bakbukiah and Unni, her brethren, were on guard for her. 10. Jeshua begat Jehoiakim, Jehoiakim begat Eliasib, Eliasib begat Jehoiada. 11. Jehoiada begat Jonathan, Jonathan begat Jaddua. 12. And in the days of Jehoiakim these were chief fathers among the priests: namely, of Seraiah was Meraiah; of Jeremiah was Hananiah;. 13. Of Ezra was Meshullam; of Amariah was Johanan; 14. Of Malluch was Jonathan; of Zebaniah was Joseph; 15. Of Harim was Adnah; of Meraioth was Helkai; 16. Of Iddo was Zechariah; of Ginthon was Meshullam. 17. Of Abijah was Zichri; of Mejamin-moyah was Piltai; 18. Of Bilgah was Shammua; of Shemaiah was Jonathan; 19. Of Jehoiarib was Mathnai; of Jedaiah was Uzzi; 20. From Sallai was Kallai; from Amok was Eber; 21. Of Hilkiah was Hashabiah; of Jedaiah was Nethaneel. 22. And in the days of Eliasib, and Jehoiada, and Johanan, and Jaddua, the chief fathers among the Levites, and the priests, were described under the kingdom of Darii the Persian. 23. And the children of Levi, the chief fathers, were written in the book of the chronicles unto the days of Johanan the son of Eliasib. 24. And these were the chief of the Levites: Hashabiah, Sherebiah, and Jeshua the son of Kadmiel, and their brethren beside them, to praise and to give thanks, as David the man of God commanded, one hat for another. 25. And Mathaniah, and Bakbukiah, and Obadiah, and Meshulam, and Talmon, and Akub, were keepers of the guard, at the thresholds of the gates. 26. These were in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Jeshua, the son of Jozadak, and in the days of Nehemiah the governor, and Ezra the priest the scribe. 27. And in the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, with singing, and cymbals, and psalteries, and harps. 28. And there were gathered together the children of the singers, and from the coasts of Jerusalem, and from the courts of Netophathi. 29. And of the house of Gilgal, and of the fields of Gibeah, and of Azmaveth: for the singers had built them courts round about Jerusalem. 30. And the priests and the Levites purified themselves, and cleansed the people, and the gates, and the wall. 31. And I set the princes of Judah upon the top of the wall, and appointed two great choirs of thanksgiving, which went up on the right hand upon the top of the wall toward the dung gate. 32. And unto them went Hoshaiah, and half the princes of Judah. 33. and Azariah, Ezra, Meshullam, 34. Judah, Benjamin, Shemaiah and Jeremiah 35. And some of the sons of the priests with trumpets; Zechariah the son of Jonathan, the son of Shemaiah, the son of Mathaniah, the son of Michaiah, the son of Zechur, the son of Asaph, 36. And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azareel, and Milalai, and Gilalai, and Maai, and Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the stringed instruments of David the man of God: and Ezra the scribe before them, 37. And they went toward the well gate. And they walked beside them in the steps of the city of David, up the wall unto the house of David, unto the water gate eastward. 38. And the other choir of thanksgiving went over against them, and I after them, and half the people up the wall unto the tower of the furnace, unto the broad wall, 39. And they went up to the gate of Ephraim, and to the old gate, and to the fish gate, and to the tower of Hananeel, and to the tower of Mea, unto the sheep gate, and stood in the prison gate. 40. And the two thanksgivings were in the house of God, and I and half of the princes with me; 41. And the priests, namely, Eliakim, Maeshiah, Miniamin, Micaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah, Hananiah, with trumpets; 42. And Maeshiah, and Shemaiah, and Eleazar, and Uzzi, and Johanan, and Malchiah, and Elam, and Azar. And the singers sang aloud; and Jezrahiah was the ruler. 43; And they offered great sacrifices that day, and were glad: for God had made them great joy, that both wives and children rejoiced: and the joy of Jerusalem was heard afar off. 44. At that time were men appointed over the treasuries, when the heaves, and the firstfruits, and the tithes, were in, to gather them out of the fields, and round about the cities, to distribute according to the law unto the priests and to the Levites: for Judah delighted in the priests and the Levites, that they should tarry 45. And they waited upon the guard of their God, and upon the guard of purification. And the singers and the porters kept the charge of David, and of Solomon his son. 46. For in the days of David and Assaph were established the chief singers, and singers of praise and thanksgiving unto GOD. 47. And all Israel gave portions unto the singers and unto the porters in the days of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah, every day his portion: and they gave sanctuaries unto the Levites, and the Levites gave sanctuaries unto the children of Aaron. (Nehemiah) Chapter 13 Nehemiah's zeal in improvement of police, church and domestic being. 1. And the book of Moses was read in that day in the ears of the people, and it was found written therein, that the Ammonites and the Moabites should no more come into the congregation of God, 2. Because they prevented not the children of Israel with bread and water, and set Balaam against them to curse them: but our God turned the curse into a blessing. 3. And when they heard this law, they separated all the strangers from Israel. 4. And before him Eliasib the priest had put Tobiah's offering in the treasury of the house of our God. 5. For he had made him a great coffer, and therein they had laid the meat offering, and the incense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, and the wine, and the oil, according to the commandment of the Levites, and the singers, and the porters, and the heaves of the priests. 6. But in all this I was not at Jerusalem. For in the thirty-second year of Arthahaztha king of Babylon I came to the king, and after some days I purchased of the king, 7. And I went to Jerusalem. And I perceived that it was not good which Eliasib had done to Tobiah, to make him a box in the court of the house of God. 8. And I was sore displeased, and cast out all the vessels of the house of Tobiah from before the box. 9. And I commanded that they should cleanse the caskets: and I brought again there the vessels of the house of God, the meat offering, and the incense. 10. And I heard that the Levites' portion was not given unto them, because the Levites and the singers fled every man to his field to work. 11. And I rebuked the princes, saying, Why do we forsake the house of God? But I gathered them together, and set them in their place. 12. And all Judah brought tithes of the corn, and of the wine, and of the oil, unto the treasury. 13. And I set over the treasures Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites Pedaiah, and under their hand Hanan the son of Zechur the son of Mathaniah: for they were counted faithful, and were commanded to distribute unto their brethren. 14. Remember me, O my God, and do not blot out my mercy, which I have done to my God's house and to his guard. 15. At that time I saw winepresses treading in Judah on the sabbath day, and bringing in sheaves, and asses laden with wine, and with grapes, and with figs, and with all manner of burden, to Jerusalem on the sabbath day. I saw them on the day they sold the food. 16. There dwelt also Tyrians within, which brought fishes and all manner of merchandise, and sold them on the sabbath day unto the children of Judah and Jerusalem. 17. Then I rebuked the princes of Judah, and said unto them: What wicked thing is this that ye do, and break the sabbath day? 18. Did not our fathers do so, and our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? And ye make more wrath upon Israel, because ye break the sabbath day. 19. And when the gates of Jerusalem were opened before the sabbath day, I commanded the doors to be shut, and commanded that they should not be opened until after the sabbath day. And I appointed some of my servants to the gates, that no burden should be brought in on the sabbath day. 20. And the merchants and the sellers, with all manner of merchandise, stayed out of Jerusalem one night or two. 21. Then I testified unto them, and said unto them: Why tarry ye about the wall overnight? If ye do it again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth they came not on the sabbath day. 22. And I spake unto the Levites that were clean, that they should come and keep the gates, to hallow the sabbath day. O my God, remember me also, and spare me according to thy great mercy. 23. I saw also in those days Jews taking wives of Ashdod, and Ammon, and Moab. 24. And their children spake half of them asdodish, and could not speak Jewish, but after the manner of every people. 25. And I reproached them, and cursed them, and smote certain men, and roughed them up, and took an oath of them by God, saying, Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, neither shall ye take their daughters unto your sons, or unto yourselves. 26. Did not Solomon king of Israel sin in this? And yet in many nations there was no king like unto him, and he was dear unto his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless the foreign wives made him to sin. 27. Have ye not heard that ye do such great evil, to trespass against our God, and to take foreign wives? 28. And one of the sons of Jehoiada the son of Eliasib the high priest had made friends with Sanballat the Horonite: but I put him away from me. 29. Remember them, O my God, that are loosed from the priesthood, and from the covenant of the priesthood and of the Levites. 30. So I cleansed them from all foreigners, and set the guard of the priests and Levites, every man according to his business, 31. And to offer the wood at appointed times, and the firstfruits. Remember me, my God, in the best! Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Esther ^ Chapter 1 Vasthi is cast out for despised meal by Ahasuerus. 1. In the days of Ahasuerus, which was king from India unto the Moors, over an hundred and twenty and seven countries, 2. And as he sat in his royal seat in Shushan the palace, 3. In the third year of his reign he made a feast with him unto all his princes and servants, even to the mighty men of Persia and Media, and to the governors and princes of his provinces, 4. That he might shew the marvellous riches of his kingdom, and the glorious majesty of his majesty, for many days, even an hundred and fourscore days. 5. And when the days were expired, the king made a feast unto all the people that were in Shushan the palace, both great and small, seven days in the court of the garden of the king's house. 6. There hung white, red, and yellow cloths, bound with linen and scarlet ropes in silver rings upon marble pillars. The benches were of gold and silver, made upon pavements of green, white, yellow, and black marbles. 7. And the drink was carried in vessels of gold, and other vessels, and other vessels, and royal wine in such quantity as the king was able. 8. And they appointed no man what he should drink: for the king had commanded all the rulers of his house that every man should do as he pleased. 9. And Vasthi the queen also made a feast for the women in the royal house of king Ahasuerus, 10. And on the seventh day, when the king was well pleased with wine, he called Mehuman, Bistha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Sethar, and Kharkas, the seven eunuchs that ministered before king Ahasuerus, 11. And they brought Vashti the queen before the king with the royal crown, to shew her beauty unto the people and to the princes: for she was fair. 12. But Vasthi the queen would not come after the king's word by his chamberlains. And the king was very wroth, and his wrath was kindled in him. 13. And the king spake unto the wise men that had knowledge of the customs of the land, (for the king's things must be done in the sight of all that have understanding of right and wrong; 14. And the next unto him were Charsena, and Sethar, and Admatha, and Tharsis, and Meres, and Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of the Persians and Medes, which saw the king's face, and sat on high in the kingdom), 15. What right should be done to Vasthi the queen, because she had not done according to the king's word by his chamberlains? 16. And Memucan said before the king and princes, Vashti the queen hath not wrought evil against the king only, but also against all the princes, and against all the people of all the provinces of king Ahasuerus. 17. For such a deed shall come forth from the queen unto all the women, that they shall despise their husbands in their sight, and shall say, Ahasuerus the king called Vashti the queen to come before him; but she would not. 18. Now therefore the princesses of Persia and Media shall say so also unto all the king's princes, when they hear such a deed of the queen; and there shall be enough contempt and wrath. 19. If it please the king, let a royal decree go forth from him, and let it be written according to the law of the Persians and Medes, which shall not be transgressed, that Vashti come no more before king Ahasuerus; and let the king give her kingdom to her neighbour that is better than she; 20. And that this letter of the king's, which is made, may go forth into all his kingdom (which is great), that all the women may keep their husbands in honour, both great and small. 21. And it pleased the king and the princes: and the king did according to the word of Memucan. 22. And letters were sent into all the king's provinces, into every land according to the writing thereof, and unto every people according to their language, that every man should be ruler in his house, and speak according to the language of his people. (Ester) Chapter 2 Esther is raised to royal honors. 1. After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus was abated, he remembered Vasthi, what she had done, and what was decreed concerning her. 2. Then said the king's lads that ministered unto him: Let young virgins be sought for the king; 3. And the king shall appoint showers throughout all the provinces of his kingdom, that they may gather together all manner of fair young virgins unto Shushan the palace, into the women's chamber, under the hand of Hegai the king's chamberlain, who waiteth upon the women, and give them their jewels; 4. And whichever damsel pleaseth the king, let her be queen in Vashti's stead. And this pleased the king, and he did so. 5. Now there was a certain Jew in Shushan the palace, whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, the son of Jemini, 6. Who was carried away with him from Jerusalem, when Jechaniah king of Judah was carried away, whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon carried away. 7. And he was a guardian to Hadassah, which is Esther his cousin's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother. And she was a fair and fine damsel. And when her father and her mother were dead, Mordecai took her for a daughter. 8. And it came to pass, when the king's commandment and the king's law were heard, and many damsels were brought home to Shushan the palace, under the hand of Hegai, that Esther also was taken into the king's house, under the hand of Hegai the keeper of the damsels. 9. And the damsel pleased him, and she found mercy in his sight. And he hasted with her jewels, that he might give her her portion, and seven fair damsels of the king's house with her. He put her and her maids in the best place in the women's room. 10. And Esther told him not of her people, nor of her friendship: for Mordecai had commanded her that she should not tell. 11. And Mordecai walked every day before the court in the chamber of the women, to know whether it was well with Esther, and what might befall her. 12. And it came to pass, when the time was come for every damsel to come to king Ahasuerus, after she had been twelve months in adorning herself, (for her adorning must have been so much time, six months with balm and myrrh, and six months with good spices, that the damsels were adorned,) 13. Then went a damsel unto the king, and whomsoever she would, they gave her, that should go with her from the chamber of women unto the king's house. 14. And it came to pass, when one was come in at even, that she went out of him in the morning into the other chamber, under the hand of Saashgah the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the concubines. And she came not again to the king, except the king lusted, and called her by name. 15. And it came to pass, when the time was come for Esther the daughter of Abihail the cousin of Mordecai, whom he had taken for a daughter, to come to the king, that she desired nothing, save what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, spake. And Esther found grace in the sight of all them that looked on her. 16. And Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into the king's house in the tenth month, which is called Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign. 17. And the king loved Esther above all women, and she found grace and mercy in his sight. above< all virgins. And he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen in Vashti's stead. 18. And the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants. Servants (which was a feast for Esther's sake) and let the countries rest, and gave out royal gifts. 19. And when virgins were gathered together the second time, Mordecai sat in the king's gate. 20. And Esther had not yet declared her friendship, nor her people, as Mordecai had commanded her. For Esther did according to the word of Mordecai, as though he were her guardian. 21. At the same time that Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Theres, which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay their hands on king Ahasuerus. 22. And it was known unto Mordecai, and he spake it unto Esther the queen; and Esther spake it unto the king in Mordecai's name. 23. And when they searched for them, they found them. And they were both hanged upon trees, and were written in the book of the chronicles before the king. (Ester) Chapter 3 Haman's ambition and bloodlust. 1. According to these acts king Ahasuerus magnified Haman the son of Medatha the Agagite, and exalted him, and set over his throne all the princes that were with him. 2. And all the king's servants that were in the king's gate bowed the knee, and worshipped Haman: for the king had so commanded. But Mordecai bowed not his knees, nor worshipped. 3. And the king's servants that were in the king's gate said unto Mordecai, Why transgressest thou the king's commandment? 4. And when they had said these things unto him daily, and he obeyed them not, they told Haman, that they might see whether the doings of Mordecai would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew. 5. And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not his knees to him, nor worshipped him, he was filled with wrath. 6. And he despised to lay hands on Mordecai alone, because they had told him the people of Mordecai: but he sought to destroy the people of Mordecai, all the Jews that were in all the kingdom of Ahasuerus. 7. In the first month, which is the moon Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, was the lot cast before Haman from day to day, and from the month to the twelfth month, which is the moon Adar. 8. And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a people scattered, and divided among all nations, throughout all the coasts of thy kingdom; and their law is diverse from all nations, and they do not the king's statutes: and it is not meet for the king to suffer them to do so. 9. If it please the king, let him write that it be put to death: and I will weigh ten thousand talents of silver in the hand of the officers, and bring it into the king's chamber. 10. And the king took off his ring from off his hand, and gave it unto Haman the son of Medatha the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews. 11. And the king said unto Haman, Let the silver be given thee, and the people with thee, that thou mayest do therewith as it pleaseth thee. 12. Then the king's scribes were called on the thirteenth day of the first month: and it was written, as Haman commanded, unto the king's princes, and to the governors to and fro in the countries, and to the captains of every people in the countries to and fro, according to the writing of every people, and according to their language, in the name of king Ahasuerus, and sealed with the king's rings. 13. And the letters were sent by the runners into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to slay, and to kill all the Jews, both young and old, children and women, in one day, even in the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the moon Adar, and to spoil their substance. 14. So the content of the scripture was, that a commandment should be given in all countries, to open unto all nations, that they should be sent unto the same day. 15. And the runners went out in haste, according to the king's commandment. And there was a commandment posted in Shushan the palace. And the king and Haman did eat and drink: but the city of Shushan went astray. (Ester) Chapter 4 Mourning and fasting of Mardachai and the Jews. 1. And when Mordecai heard all that was done, he rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city. And he cried with a loud cry. 2. And he came unto the king's gate. For no man had to enter into the king's gate with sackcloth on. 3. And in every land, whither the king's word and commandment came, there was great mourning among the Jews; and many fasted, and wept, and mourned, and lay in sackcloth and ashes. 4. And Esther's damsels and her chamberlains came and told her. And the queen was sore afraid. And she sent garments, that Mordecai might put them on, and put off the sackcloth from him: but he took them not. 5. Then Esther called Hathach of the king's chamberlains, which stood before her, and commanded him to Mordecai, that she might know what these things were, and why he did so. 6. Then Hathach went out to Mordecai unto the street of the city, which was before the king's gate. 7. And Mordecai told him all that he had met with, and the sum of the silver that Haman had spoken, to weigh it in the king's chamber for the Jews' sakes, to destroy them. 8. And he gave him the copy of the commandment that was written in Shushan to destroy her, to shew it unto Esther, and to declare it unto her, and to command her to go in unto the king, and to make supplication unto him for her people. 9. And when Hathach was come in, and saw Esther the words of Mordecai, 10. And Esther spake unto Hathach, and commanded him to Mardachai: 11. All the king's servants, and the people of the king's provinces, know that whosoever goeth in unto the king within the court, whether he be man or woman, and is not called, he shall surely die, except the king give him the golden sceptre, that he may live. But I have not been called to go in to the king for thirty days. 12. And the words of Esther were spoken unto Mordecai; 13. And Mordecai said unto Esther again, Remember not that thou savest thy life, because thou art in the king's house, before all the Jews; 14. For if thou shalt keep silence at this time, then shall help and salvation come unto the Jews out of another place, and thou shalt perish, thou and thy father's house. And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for this time? 15. Esther called Mordecai to answer: 16. Go therefore, gather together all the Jews that are in Shushan, and fast for me, that ye eat not, nor drink, day nor night, three days: so will I and my damsels fast. So I will go in to the king against the commandment, and if I perish, I perish. 17. And Mordecai went and did all that Esther commanded him. (Ester) Chapter 5 Esther goes to the king. Haman asks Mordecai for his life. 1. And it came to pass on the third day, that Esther arrayed herself royally, and stood in the court of the king's house within the king's house. And the king sat in his royal seat in the king's house, toward the door of the house. 2. And when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, she found grace in his sight. And the king stretched forth the golden scepter in his hand toward Esther. And Esther came near, and touched the point of the sceptre. 3. And the king said unto her, What is the matter with thee, Esther the queen? and what demandest thou? half the kingdom also shall be given thee. 4. And Esther said, If it please the king, let the king and Haman come this day to the feast which I have prepared. 5. And the king said, Make haste that Haman do what Esther hath said. And it came to pass, when the king and Haman were come to the banquet that Esther had prepared, 6. And the king said unto Esther, when he had drunk wine, What askest thou, Esther? It shall be given thee. And what askest thou? Even the half of the kingdom, it shall be done. 7. And Esther answered and said, My petition and my desire is this: 8. If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to give me my petition, and to do my desire, let the king and Haman come to the banquet which I will prepare for them; and I will do to morrow as the king hath said. 9. And Haman went out that day cheerful and of good cheer. And when he saw Mordecai in the king's gate, that he arose not, nor moved himself before him, he was filled with wrath against him. Mordecai. 10. But he abstained. And when he was come home, he sent and fetched his friends, and Seresh his wife. 11. And he told them the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all how the king had made him so great, and that he was exalted above the princes and servants of the king. 12. And Haman said, Esther the queen hath sent no man to come with the king to the feast which she hath prepared, save me: and to morrow I am summoned unto her with the king. 13. But in all this I have no sufficiency, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate. 14. And Seresh his wife and all his friends said unto him, Make a tree fifty cubits high, and tell the king to morrow to hang Mordecai thereon; and thou shalt come to supper with the king rejoicing. And it pleased Haman well, and he made a tree. (Ester) Chapter 6 Mardachai is raised to high honors. 1. That night the king could not sleep, and commanded the chronicles and the histories to be brought. Then they were read before the king, 2. And it came to pass, when it was written, as Mordecai had said, that the king's two chamberlains, Bigthan and Theres, which kept the threshold, had sought to lay hands on Ahasuerus the king. 3. And the king said, What honour and good have we done unto Mordecai? Then said the king's boys that ministered unto him: Nothing hath happened unto him. 4. And the king said, Who is in the court? (For Haman was gone into the court, without the king's house, to tell the king to hang Mordecai upon the tree which he had prepared for him). 5. And the king's sons said unto him, Behold, Haman standeth in the court. And the king said, Let him come in. 6. And when Haman was come in, the king said unto him, What shall be done to the man whom the king delighteth to honour? And Haman said in his heart, To whom else would the king delight to do honour, but to me? 7. And Haman said unto the king: The man the king was pleased to honor, 8. Bring the king's royal robes, which the king is accustomed to wear, and the horse on which the king rides, and put the royal crown upon his head. 9. And they shall give such a garment and such a horse into the hand of one of the king's princes, that he may put on the man whom the king delighteth to honour; and they shall bring him on the horse into the streets of the city, and shall call before him, saying, Thus shall it be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour. 10. And the king said unto Haman, Make haste, and take the garment and the horse, as thou hast said, and do so unto Mordecai the Jew, which sitteth at the king's gate; and let nothing fail of all that thou hast spoken. 11. And Haman took the robe and the horse, and dressed Mordecai, and led him into the streets of the city, and cried before him, Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delighteth to honour. 12. And Mordecai came again to the king's gate. And Haman hasted home, bearing sorrow with his head covered. 13. And he told his wife Zeresh, and his friends, all that he had met with. And his wise men and Zeresh his wife said unto him, If Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom thou art lifted up to fall, thou canst not do any thing by him, but thou shalt fall before him. 14. And while they yet talked with him, the king's chamberlains came, and bade Haman come to the supper which Esther had prepared. (Ester) Chapter 7 Haman is hanged from a tree. 1. And when the king was come with Haman to the banquet which Esther the queen had prepared, 2. And the king said unto Esther the next day, when he had drunk wine, What askest thou, O Esther the queen, to be given thee? And what askest thou? Even half the kingdom, let it be done. 3. And Esther the queen answered and said, If I have found grace in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, give me my life for my petition, and my people for my desire. 4. For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, and to be slain, and to be slain: and if God would that we should be sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I would hold my peace, but the enemy would not hurt the king. 5. And king Ahasuerus spake, and said unto Esther the queen, Who is he? Or where is he that may take this thing into his mind to do so? 6. And Esther said, The enemy and adversary is this wicked Haman. And Haman was astonished before the king and the queen. 7. And the king arose from supper and wine in his wrath, and went into the garden of the house. And Haman arose, and besought Esther the queen for his life: for he saw that the king's evil was already prepared for him. 8. And when the king was come again out of the garden of the house into the hall where they had eaten, Haman lay by the bench where Esther sat. And the king said, Will he strangle the queen in my house? And when the word came out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face. 9. And Harbonah the chamberlain, one before the king, said, Behold, there is a tree in the house of Haman fifty cubits high, which he had made for Mordecai, which spake good for the king. And the king said, Let him hang upon it. 10. So they hanged Haman upon the tree which he had made Mordecai. And the king's anger was abated. (Ester) Chapter 8 The Jews have permission to take revenge on their enemies. 1. In that day king Ahasuerus gave to Esther the queen the house of Haman the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came before the king: for Esther told how he belonged unto her. 2. And the king took off his finger, which he had taken from Haman, and gave it to Mordecai. And Esther set Mordecai over the house of Haman. 3. And Esther spake again before the king, and fell down at his feet, and besought him that he would put away the wickedness of Haman the Agagite, and his devices which he had devised against the Jews. 4. And the king stretched out the golden sceptre unto Esther. And Esther arose, and stood before the king. 5. And he said, If it please the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and if it please the king, and if I please him, then let it be written, that the letters of the plots of Haman the son of Medatha the Agagite be revoked, which he wrote to destroy the Jews throughout all the king's provinces. 6. For how can I see the evil that shall befall my people? And how can I see my people perish? 7. And king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the queen, and to Mordecai the Jew, Behold, I have given the house of Haman unto Esther, and he is hanged upon a tree, because he laid his hand upon the Jews. 8. Now therefore write ye for the Jews, as ye please, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring. For the writing that was written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, no man hath had to revoke. 9. And the king's scribes were called at that time in the third month, which is the moon of Sivan, on the three and twentieth day; and it was written, as Mordecai commanded, unto the Jews, and to the princes, and to the governors, and to the captains of the provinces, from India even unto the Moors, even an hundred and twenty and seven provinces, to every province according to their writings, and to every people according to their language, and to the Jews according to their writing and their language. 10. And it was written in the name of king Ahasuerus, and sealed with the king's rings. And he sent the letters by messengers riding upon young mouths, 11. Wherein the king gave the Jews, where they were in the cities, to assemble themselves together, and to stand for their lives, and to destroy, and to slay, and to destroy all the power of the people and of the land, which they feared, with their children and their wives, and to spoil their substance, 12. On one day in all the lands of king Ahasuerus, even on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the moon Adar. 13. And the content of the scripture was, that a commandment should be given in all countries, to open unto all nations, that the Jews should be sent in that day to avenge themselves on their enemies. 14. And the messengers that rode upon the mouths went out quickly and in haste according to the king's word: and the commandment was posted in Shushan the palace. 15. And Mordecai went out from the king in royal apparel, yellow and white, and with a great crown of gold, clothed in a linen and purple mantle: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. 16. But unto the Jews was light, and joy, and. Delight and honor come. 17. And in every land, and in every city, whither the king's word and commandment came, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, and gladness and good days; and many of the people of the land became Jews: for the fear of the Jews was upon them. (Ester) Chapter 9 The Jews, having practiced vengeance, make a joyful feast. 1. In the twelfth month, which is the moon Adar, in the thirteenth day, which the king's word and commandment had appointed to be done, in the very day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to overcome them, it came to pass that the Jews should overcome their enemies. 2. Then the Jews gathered themselves together in their cities, throughout all the provinces of king Ahasuerus, to lay hands on them that would do them evil. And no man could withstand them: for fear was come upon all nations. 3. And all the rulers of the provinces, and the princes, and the governors, and the king's officers, did exalt the Jews: for the fear of Mordecai was upon them. 4. For Mordecai was great in the king's house, and the rumour of him was heard in all the countries, how he increased and became great. 5. So the Jews smote upon all their enemies with the edge of the sword, and choked, and slew, and did according to their will upon them that were enemies unto them. 6. And in Shushan the Jews slew, and destroyed five hundred men. 7. And they slew Parsandatha, and Dalphon, and Aspatha, 8. Poratha, Adaliah, Aridatha, 9. parmastha, arisai, aridai, vajesatha, 10. The ten sons of Haman the son of Medatha, the enemy of the Jews: but they laid not their hands on his goods. 11. At that time came the number of them that were slain unto Shushan the castle before the king. 12. And the king said unto Esther the queen, The Jews have slain and killed five hundred men in Shushan the palace, and the ten sons of Haman: what will they do in the rest of the king's provinces? What will they do in the rest of the king's land? what will they give you? and what more will they ask you to do? 13. And Esther said, If it please the king, let him also the Jews of Shushan do to morrow according to this day's commandment, to hang the ten sons of Haman upon the tree. 14. And the king commanded thus. And the commandment was posted in Shushan, and the ten sons of Haman were hanged. 15. And the Jews gathered themselves together to Shushan on the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and slew in Shushan three hundred men: but they laid not their hands on their goods. 16. And the rest of the Jews that were in the king's provinces came together, and tarried for their lives, to give them rest from their enemies, and slew their enemies seventy and five thousand: but they laid not their hands on their goods. 17. And it came to pass on the thirteenth day of the month Adar, and they rested on the fourteenth day of that month, which was made a day of rest and gladness. 18. But the Jews that were at Shushan were gathered together, both on the thirteenth day and on the fourteenth day, and rested on the fifteenth day: and they made that day a day of rest and gladness. 19. Therefore the Jews that dwelt in the villages and in the towns made the fourteenth day of the month Adar a day of feasting and gladness, and sent gifts one to another. 20. And Mordecai described this history, and sent letters unto all the Jews that were in all the countries of king Ahasuerus, both near and far, 21. And they took and kept the fourteenth and fifteenth day of the month Adar yearly, 22. After the days wherein the Jews were at rest from their enemies, and after the months wherein their sorrows were turned into joy, and their mourning into good days, that they should keep them for days of good living and gladness, and send gifts one to another, and communicate them to the poor. 23. And the Jews received it, which they began to do, and which Mordecai wrote unto them: 24. As Haman the son of Medatha the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, thought to destroy all the Jews, and cast lots to terrify and kill them; 25. And how Esther went to the king, and spake that by letters his wicked devices, which he thought against the Jews, should be turned upon his head; and how they hanged him and his sons upon the tree. 26. Wherefore they called these days Purim by the name of the lot, according to all the words of this epistle, and what they themselves had seen, and what had come unto them. 27. And the Jews set it up, and took it upon themselves, and upon their seed, and upon all that joined themselves unto them, that they would not pass over to keep these two days yearly, as they were described and appointed, 28. That these days should not be forgotten, but kept among their children, among all generations, in all countries, and in all cities. These are the days of Purim, which shall not be forgotten among the Jews, neither shall their remembrance perish among their seed. 29. And Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote with all their might to confirm this other letter of Purim. 30. And sent letters unto all the Jews in the hundred and twenty and seven countries of the kingdom of Ahasuerus with kind and faithful words: 31. And they confirmed these days of Purim in their appointed time, as Mordecai the Jew had confirmed them, and Esther the queen; as they had confirmed upon their souls, and upon their seed, the story of their fasting and their crying. 32. And Esther commanded to confirm the history of these Purim, and to write it in a book. (Ester) Chapter 10 Mordecai is praised 1. And king Ahasuerus laid interest upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea. 2. But all the works of his power and might, and the great glory of Mordecai, which the king gave him, behold, it is written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia. 3. For Mordecai the Jew was the other after king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and pleasant among the multitude of his brethren, seeking good for his people, and speaking the best for all his seed. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545 DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Book of Job (Job) ^ Chapter 1 Job's obnoxiousness and patience. 1. There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job. He was righteous and wicked, fearing God and shunning evil. 2. And begat seven sons and three daughters. 3. And of his cattle were seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a great many servants: and he was more glorious than all they that dwelt eastward. 4. And his sons went and made merry every man in his house in his day, and sent and invited their three sisters to eat and drink with them. 5. And it came to pass, when the day was expired, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, "My sons have sinned and blessed God in their hearts. So Job did all the days. 6. And it came to pass in a day, when the children of God came and stood before the LORD, that Satan also came among them. 7. And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? And Satan answered the LORD, and said: I have compassed the country round about. 8. And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou not taken heed unto my servant Job? for there is none like him in the land, wicked and righteous, fearing God, and avoiding evil. 9. And Satan answered the LORD, and said, Thinkest thou that Job feareth God for nought? 10. Hast thou preserved him, and his house, and all that he hath round about? Thou hast blessed the work of his hands; And his substance is spread abroad in the land. 11. But put forth thine hand, and touch all that he hath: what matter, he will bless thee to thy face? 12. And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thine hand; without him alone lay not thine hand. Then Satan departed from the LORD. 13. And it came to pass on the day that his sons and his daughters did eat and drink wine in their brother's house, the firstborn, 14. And there came a messenger to Job, saying, The oxen plowed, and the asses walked beside them in the pasture; 15. And they of Arabia came in, and took them, and smote the lads with the edge of the sword: and I alone escaped to tell thee. 16. While he yet spake, another came and said, The fire of God came down from heaven, and burned up sheep and lambs, and consumed them: and I alone escaped to tell thee. 17. While he yet spake, there came one, and said, The Chaldeans made three points, and attacked the camels, and took them, and smote the lads with the edge of the sword: and I alone escaped to tell thee. 18. While he yet spake, one came and said, Thy sons and thy daughters did eat and drink in the house of their brother the firstborn; 19. And, behold, a great wind came from the wilderness, and brake upon the four corners of the house, and cast it upon the young men, and they died: and I alone escaped to tell thee. 20. And Job arose, and rent his clothes, and ruffled his head, and fell to the ground, and worshipped. 21. And said: I came naked from my mother's womb; naked shall I return. The LORD gave, the LORD hath taken away: blessed be the name of the LORD. 22. In all this Job sinned not, neither did he do anything foolish against God. (Job) Chapter 2 Job afflicted in the body, is despised and visited. 1. And it came to pass in the day that the children of God came and stood before the LORD, that Satan also came among them, and stood before the LORD. 2. Then said the LORD unto Satan, Whence comest thou? And Satan answered the LORD, and said: I have compassed the country round about. 3. And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou not taken heed unto my servant Job? For there is none like him in the land, wicked and righteous, fearing God, avoiding evil, and holding fast his godliness: but thou hast moved me to destroy him without a cause. 4. Satan answered the LORD, and said, Skin for skin; and all that a man hath he leaveth for his life. 5. But put forth thine hand, and touch his bones and his flesh: what matter, he will bless thee to thy face? 6. And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand: but spare his life. 7. Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with evil swarms from the sole of his foot even to the top of his head. 8. And he took a potsherd, and scraped himself, and sat in the ashes. 9. And his wife said unto him, Dost thou yet hold fast thy devotion? Yes, bless God and die! 10. And he said unto her, Thou speakest as foolish women speak. Have we received good from God, and should we not also receive evil? In all this Job sinned not with his lips. 11. And when the three friends of Job heard all the evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place, Eliphaz of Theman, and Bildad of Shuah, and Zophar of Naamah. They were united in coming to lament and comfort him. 12. And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, they knew him not, and lifted up their voice, and wept; and every man rent his clothes, and sprinkled earth upon their heads toward heaven. 13. And they sat with him upon the earth seven days and seven nights, and spake nothing to him: for they saw that the sorrow was very great. (Job) Chapter 3 Lamentations and impatience. 1. After this Job opened his mouth, and cursed his day. 2. And Job said: 3. Let the day be lost wherein I was born, and the night when it was said, A man is conceived. 4. that same day must be dark, and GOD from above must not inquire of it; no brightness must shine upon it. 5. Darkness and gloom shall overtake him, and thick clouds shall be upon him, and the vapour by day shall make him hideous. 6. Let the night take a darkness, and not rejoice among the days of the year, nor come into the number of the moons. 7. Behold, the night shall be lonely, and there shall be no rejoicing therein. 8. They curse the cursers of the day, and they that are ready to raise up Leviathan. 9. Her stars must be dark in her twilight; she hopeth for the light, and cometh not, nor seeth the eyebrows of the dawn, 10. That she hath not shut the door of my womb, nor hid evil from mine eyes. 11. Why did I not die from my mother's womb? Why did I not perish when I came out of the womb? 12. Why have they set me in the lap? Why am I suckled with breasts? 13. I would lie down and be still, and sleep, and be at rest. 14. With the kings and counsellors of the earth, which build the wilderness; 15. Or with the princes that have gold, and their houses are full of silver; 16. or like an untimely birth hidden and nothing would be, like the young children who have never seen the light. 17. There shall the wicked cease from their raging: there shall they rest that have laboured much. 18. For the captives are at peace with one another, and hear not the voice of the oppressor. 19. There are both small and great, servant and he that is set free of his master. 20. Why is light given to the weary, and life to the afflicted heart? 21. Who wait for death, and come not, and dig it out of secret, 22. Who almost rejoice, and are glad to get the grave:) 23. And to the man whose way is hid, and God covereth it from him? 24. For when I shall eat, I groan, and my weeping cometh forth like water. 25. For that which I feared is come upon me, and that which I cared for is come upon me. 26. Was I not blissful? Was I not fine quiet? Was I not well at rest? And comes such unrest! (Job) Chapter 4 Eliphaz begins to chastise Job. 1. Then Eliphaz of Theman answered and said: 2. Thou mayest not like it, if any man try to speak unto thee: but who can refrain? 3. Behold, thou hast instructed many, and hast strengthened hands; 4. Thy speech hath lifted up the fallen, and thou hast strengthened the trembling knees. 5. But when it cometh upon thee, thou shalt be weak: and when it cometh upon thee, thou shalt be afraid. 6. is this your (God's) fear, comfort, hope, and godliness? 7. Thinkest thou, where hath the innocent perished, or where hath the righteous ever been destroyed? 8. As I have seen them plow toil, and sow mischief, and they also reap it, 9. That they should perish by the breath of God, and be consumed by the spirit of his wrath. 10. The roaring of the lions, and the voice of the great lions, and the teeth of the young lions, are broken. 11. The lion is consumed, that he rob no more: and the young of the lioness are scattered. 12. And there came unto me a secret word, and mine ear received a word of it. 13. When I have beheld visions in the night, when sleep falleth upon men, 14. Then fear and trembling came upon me, and all my bones were troubled. 15. And when the Spirit passed over before me, the hair of my head stood on end in my flesh. 16. And there stood a vision before mine eyes, and I knew not the form thereof: it was still, and I heard a voice: 17. How can a man be more righteous than God, or a man more pure than he who made him? 18. Behold, there is none without blame among his servants, and he findeth folly in his messengers. 19. How many more of them that dwell in the houses of clay, and that are founded upon the earth, shall be eaten of the worms? 20. From the morning until the evening they are cut off, and before they know it they are gone; 21. And the remnant of them perish, and die also unawares. (Job) Chapter 5 Eliphaz continues in his punishment. 1. Name me one; what matter if thou find one? And look around thee for any saint. 2. But wrath slayeth a foolish man, and zeal slayeth a foolish man. 3. I saw a fool rooted up, and I suddenly cursed his house. 4. His children shall be far from salvation, and shall be broken in the gate, because there shall be no saviour. 5. His harvest shall the hungry eat, and the armed shall take him, and his goods shall the thirsty drink. 6. For trouble cometh not out of the earth, neither doth mischief grow out of the field, 7. but man is born to misfortune, as the birds hover to soar. 8. But I will now speak of God and act from Him, 9. Who doeth great things that cannot be searched out, and wonders that cannot be numbered; 10. Who giveth rain upon the land, and causeth water to come upon the streets. 11. He that exalteth the lowly, and lifteth up the afflicted. 12. He bringeth to nought the devices of the crafty, that their hand may not execute them. 13. He fähet the wise in their craftiness, and overthroweth the counsel of the perverse, 14. That they may walk in darkness by day, and grope in the south as in the night; 15. And delivereth the poor from the sword, and from their mouth, and from the hand of the mighty; 16. And the hope of the poor is, that wickedness shall shut her mouth. 17. Behold, blessed is the man whom God punisheth: therefore refuse not the chastening of the Almighty. 18. For he woundeth and bindeth up; he breaketh in pieces, and his hand healeth. 19. Out of six tribulations shall he deliver thee; and in the seventh no evil shall touch thee. 20. He shall deliver thee from death in tribulation, and from the hand of the sword in war. 21. He shall hide thee from the scourge of the tongue, that thou fear not destruction when it cometh. 22. In destruction and hunger thou shalt laugh, and shalt not be afraid of the wild beasts of the land, 23. But thy covenant shall be with the stones of the field, and the wild beasts of the earth shall keep peace with thee; 24. And thou shalt know that thy tabernacle is at peace; and thou shalt keep thy dwelling, and shalt not sin; 25. And thou shalt know that thy seed shall be multiplied, and thy seed as the grass of the earth; 26. And thou shalt come to the grave in old age, as sheaves are brought in in their season. 27. Behold, we have searched it out, and it is so; obey it, and mark it. (Job) Chapter 6 Responsibility against Eliphaz. 1. Job answered and said: 2. If my sorrow were weighed, and my affliction put into a balance together, 3. It would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore all that I say is vain. 4. For the arrows of the Almighty are in me, the fury of the Almighty drinketh out of my spirit, and the terrors of God are upon me. 5. The deer crieth not when he hath grass; the ox bleateth not when he hath his meat. 6. can you also eat that is unsalted? Or who likes to taste the white around the yolk? 7. That which my soul hateth to touch is the meat of my sorrows. 8. O that my request might be granted, and that God might give me that which I hope for! 9. That God would begin, and smite me, and let his hand go, and break me in pieces! 10. Then would I have consoled myself, and prayed in my sickness that he would not spare me. I have not denied the words of the Holy One. 11. What is my strength, that I may persevere? and what is my end, that my soul should be patient? 12. If my strength be not of stone, my flesh is not of brass. 13. for I have nowhere to turn, and my fortune is gone. 14. He that refuseth mercy to his neighbour putteth away the fear of the Almighty. 15. My brethren pass away contemptuously before me, as a brook, as the rivers of waters pass by. 16. But they that are afraid of the frost, upon them shall the snow fall. 17. In time, when the heat shall oppress them, they shall faint; and when it is hot, they shall perish from their place. 18. Their way goeth out by the way side; they tread upon the rough places, and perish. 19. They look to the ways of Thema; to the paths of Reicharabia they wait. 20. But they shall be ashamed when it is most sure, and shall be ashamed when they come to it. 21. For ye are now come unto me: and seeing sorrow, ye fear. 22. Did I also say, Bring ye hither, and of your substance give me? 23. And delivereth me out of the hand of the enemy, and delivereth me out of the hand of tyrants? 24. Teach me, and I will hold my peace: and that which I know not, instruct me. 25. Why do ye reprove right speech? Who is there among you who can punish them? 26. Ye devise words to punish, and ye pause words to make me despondent. 27. Ye fall upon a poor orphan, and dig pits for your neighbour. 28. But because ye have lifted up, look upon me, whether I will stand before you in lies. 29. Answer what is right; my answer will still remain right. 30. What matter if my tongue be false, and my mouth speak evil? (Job) Chapter 7 Job's lament over the misery of man. 1. Must not man always be at strife upon the earth, and his days be as the days of a hired servant? 2. As a servant longs for a shadow, and a hired servant for his work to be done, 3. So I have labored in vain for whole moons, and miserable nights have been many to me. 4. And when I lay down, I said, When shall I rise? And after that I reckoned when it was evening: for I was altogether an abomination to every man, until it was dark. 5. My flesh is worm-eaten and boil-eaten round about: my skin is shrivelled up, and is become ruinous. 6. My days have flown away lighter than a weaver's bobbin, and have passed away, that there hath been no stopping. 7. Remember that my life is a wind, and mine eyes come not again to see the good. 8. and no living eye shall see me any more. Thine eyes look upon me; At this I perish. 9. A cloud passeth away, and fadeth away: so he that goeth down to hell cometh not up again. 10. And he cometh not again into his house, and his place knoweth him no more. 11. Therefore also I will not withhold my mouth; I will speak of the anguish of my heart, and I will testify of the affliction of my soul. 12. Am I then a sea, or a whale, that thou hast kept me thus? 13. When I have thought, my bed shall comfort me, my couch shall make me light; 14. when I speak to myself, thou terrifieth me with dreams, and makest me afraid, 15. My soul desireth to be hanged, and my bones to die. 16. I desire no more to live. Cease from me, for my days have been in vain. 17. What is a man, that thou esteemest him great, and art troubled with him? 18. Thou visitest him daily, and tryest him every hour. 19. Why dost thou not depart from me, and dost not cease from me, till I have swallowed up my spittle? 20. If I have sinned, what shall I do unto thee, O thou keeper of men? Why makest thou me to stumble upon thee, and art a burden unto myself? 21. And why forgivest thou not my iniquity, and takest not away my sin? For now will I lie down in the earth; and when they seek me to morrow, I shall not be there. (Job) Chapter 8 Job is accused of hypocrisy by Bildad. 1. Then answered Bildad of Suah, and said: 2. How long wilt thou speak these things, and let the speech of thy mouth be so proud? 3. Thinkest thou that God doth judge unjustly, or that the Almighty doth pervert justice? 4. If thy sons have sinned before him, he hath cast them off for their iniquity. 5. But if thou turn in time unto God, and beseech the Almighty, 6. And if thou be pure and upright, he will awake unto thee, and will set up the tabernacle again for thy righteousness' sake; 7. And what at first thou hadst little, hereafter thou shalt almost increase. 8. For inquire of the former generations, and take upon thee to inquire of their fathers. 9. (For we are of old, and know nothing; our life is a shadow upon the earth.) 10. They shall teach thee, and tell thee, and bring forth their speech out of their heart. 11. Can the reed grow up where it is not wet, or grass grow without water? 12. Or else, if it be yet in the flower, before it be cut down, it withereth before they make hay. 13. So it is with all those who forget God, and the hope of the hypocrites will be lost. 14. For his confidence is gone, and his hope is a cobweb. 15. He shall rely upon his house, and yet shall not stand: he shall keep it, and yet shall not stand. 16. It is fruitful before the sun: and the branches of his garden grow up. 17. His seed is thick by the springs, and his house is built upon the stones. 18. But if he swallow him up out of his place, he shall stand against him, as if he knew him not. 19. Behold, this is the joy of his being; and others shall grow out of the dust. 20. Therefore, behold, God does not reject the righteous, nor does He uphold the hand of the wicked, 21. Until thy mouth be full of laughter, and thy lips of rejoicing. 22. But they that hate thee shall be put to shame, and the tabernacle of the wicked shall not stand. (Job) Chapter 9 Job's defense against Bildad. 1. Job answered and said: 2. Yea, I know almost well that therefore a man may not stand justified against God. 3. If he desire to dispute with him, he cannot answer him one to a thousand. 4. He is wise and mighty: who hath ever succeeded that hath set himself against him? 5. He removeth mountains before they know it, whom he turneth back in his wrath. 6. He causeth a land to depart out of her place, and her pillars to shake. 7. He saith unto the sun, let it not rise, and seal up the stars. 8. He spreadeth out the heavens alone, and walketh upon the waves of the sea. 9. He maketh the chariot in the heavens, and Orion, and the mother hen, and the stars toward the south. 10. He doeth great things which cannot be searched out, and wonders of which there is no number. 11. Behold, he passeth over before me before I know it, and is changed before I know it. 12. Behold, if he go quickly, who shall repeat him? Who shall say unto him, What doest thou? 13. He is GOD, his wrath no man can quench; under him the proud lords must bow down. 14. How then shall I answer him, and find words against him? 15. Though I be right, yet cannot I answer him, but I must plead my right. 16. Though I call upon him, and he heareth me, yet will I not believe that he heareth my voice. 17. For he hath overtaken me with violence, and hath given me many wounds without cause. 18. He restoreth not my spirit, but maketh me full of sorrow. 19. If I desire power, he is too mighty: if I desire judgment, who will be my witness? 20. If I say that I am righteous, he condemneth me: if I am righteous, he maketh me unrighteous. 21. If then I be godly, my soul shall not take it. I desire no more life. 22. This is the one thing that I have said: He killeth both the upright and the wicked. 23. When he begineth to scourge, he soon presseth on unto death, and maketh a mockery of the imputation of the innocent. 24. And the land shall be given into the hand of the wicked, to oppress their judges. Is it not so? How shall it be otherwise? 25. My days have been swifter than a runner; they have fled, and have seen no good thing. 26. They are passed away as the strong ships, as an eagle fleeth for meat. 27. When I remember, I will forget my lamentation, and leave off my strife, and be refreshed, 28. Then I will fear all my pains, because I know that thou wilt not let me be innocent. 29. Am I then ungodly, why do I suffer such vain plagues? 30. when I immediately wish with snow water and cleaned my hands with the well, 31. But thou shalt drench me in dung, and my garments shall be put to shame. 32. For he is not like unto me, to whom I would answer that we should come into judgment together. 33. There is no arbitrator among us, neither shall he put his hand between us both. 34. He taketh away his rod from me, and leaveth his terror from me, 35. That I may speak, and not be afraid of him: otherwise I can do nothing that is for me. (Job) Chapter 10 Job complains about his misery. 1. My soul perverteth my life: I will let my lamentation go with me, and speak of the affliction of my soul. 2. And say to God, Do not condemn me; let me know why you dispute with me. 3. Dost thou delight thyself to do violence, and to cast me off whom thine hands have made, and to make the wicked to glory? 4. Hast thou then eyes of flesh, or seest thou as a man seeth? 5. Or is thy time as the time of a man, or thy years as the years of a man, 6. That thou inquireest after my iniquity, and seekest my sin? 7. If thou knowest how I am not ungodly; if there be none to deliver out of thine hand. 8. Thy hands have wrought me, and made all that I am round about; and even sunk me! 9. Remember that thou hast made me of glue, and wilt make me again of the earth. 10. Hast thou not milked me like milk, and curdled me like cheese? 11; Thou hast clothed me with skin and flesh, with legs and veins hast thou joined me together. 12. Life and mercy hast thou done unto me; and thy reverence keepeth my breath. 13. And though thou hide these things in thine heart, yet I know that thou rememberest them. 14. If I sin, thou knowest it quickly, and wilt not suffer my iniquity to go unpunished. 15. If I be wicked, woe is me: if I be righteous, yet shall I not lift up my head, as I am full of shame, and see my affliction. 16. And like a roaring lion thou huntest me, and dealest abominably with me again. 17. Thou hast renewed thy witnesses against me, and hast made much of thine anger against me: one by one thou hast afflicted me with heaps. 18. Why hast thou brought me forth from my mother's womb? Oh that I had perished, and that no eye had seen me! 19. Thus would I, when they were never, be brought from the womb to the grave. 20. Will not then my short life come to an end, and let me be refreshed a little? 21. Before I go, and come not again, even into the land of darkness and gloom, 22. Into the land that is as thick as darkness, and there is no order, because it seemeth as darkness? (Job) Chapter 11. Job is accused of hypocrisy by Zophar. 1. Then Zophar of Naema answered and said: 2. If a man speak long, must he not also hear? Must a washer always be right? 3. Shall men be silent unto thy great babblings, that thou mock thee, and that no man put thee to shame? 4. Thou sayest, My speech is pure, and I am loud in thine eyes. 5. Oh that God would speak unto thee, and open his lips unto thee! 6. And shewed the secret wisdom. For he would have more to do for thee, that thou mightest know that he remembereth not all thy sins. 7. Thinkest thou that thou knowest as much as God knoweth, and wilt do all things as perfectly as the Almighty? 8. He is higher than heaven; what wilt thou do? lower than hell; what canst thou know? 9. longer than the earth and wider than the sea. 10. If he turn them back, or make them sure, or cast them into a heap, who shall prevent him? 11. For he knoweth the loose men, he seeth iniquity, and should not know it? 12. A useless man is puffed up: and a man that is born is as a young game. 13. If thou hadst set thy heart, and spread out thy hands unto him; 14. If thou hadst put away from thee the iniquity that is in thine hand, that there should be no iniquity in thy tabernacle, 15. Then wouldst thou lift up thy countenance without reproach, and be steadfast, and fear not. 16. Then shalt thou forget the trouble, and remember it as little as the waters that pass by. 17. And the days of thy life shall rise as the noonday, and the darkness shall become the light of the morning. 18. And thou shalt be comforted in that there is hope; thou shalt enter into the grave with peace. 19. And would lie down, and no man would startle thee; and many would plead before thee. 20. But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, and shall not escape: for their hope shall fail from their soul. (Job) Chapter 12 Job to answer against Zophar and the rest of his friends. 1. Then Job answered and said: 2. Ye are the people; wisdom shall die with you! 3. I have as good a heart as ye, and am not less than ye: and who is he that knoweth not these things? 4. He that is laughed at by his neighbour shall call upon God, and he shall hear him. The righteous and the pious must be laughed at. 5. And is a despised light in the sight of the proud, and they are offended at it. 6. The dens of the spoilers are full, and rage against God, though God hath delivered it into their hand. 7. Ask the cattle, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee. 8. Or speak unto the earth, and it shall teach thee; and the fishes of the sea shall tell thee. 9. Who knoweth not all these things, that the hand of the LORD hath made them? 10. That in his hand is the soul of all that liveth, and the spirit of all flesh of every one? 11. Doth not the ear try the speech, and the mouth taste the meat? 12. Yea, with the grandfathers is wisdom and understanding with the aged. 13. With him is wisdom, and might, and counsel, and understanding. 14. Behold, if it be broken, no building shall avail: if it be worn out, no man can open it. 15. Behold, when he maketh the waters to fail, all things fail: and when he maketh them to fail, the land is turned back. 16. He is strong, and he bringeth it to pass. His is he that erreth, and he that deceiveth. 17. He leadeth the prudent as a spoil, and maketh the judges foolish. 18. He looseth the constraint of kings, and girdeth up their loins with a girdle. 19. He leadeth the priests as a spoil, and forbadeth the feasts. 20. He turneth away the lips of the upright, and taketh away the customs of the aged. 21. He poureth contempt upon the princes, and looseth the league of the mighty. 22. He openeth the dark places, and bringeth forth the darkness into the light. 23. He maketh some a great nation, and destroyeth them. He spreadeth out a people, and driveth them away. 24. He taketh away the courage of the rulers of the people of the land, and maketh them to err by a way that is not by a way, 25. That they should grope in darkness without light; and make them to err as the drunken. (Job) Chapter 13 Job continues in his responsibility. 1. Behold, mine eye hath seen all these things, mine ear hath heard them, and I have understood them. 2. What ye know, that know I also, and am not less than ye. 3. But I would gladly speak against the Almighty, and I would gladly be right with God. 4. For ye interpret it falsely, and are all useless physicians. 5. If God willed that ye should be sworn, ye would be wise. 6. Hear ye my sentence, and mark the thing of which I speak. 7. Will ye defend GOD with unrighteousness, and use guile for him? 8. Will ye look upon his person? Do you want to represent God? 9. And shall it be well with you, when he shall judge you? Do ye think that ye shall deceive him, as a man is deceived? 10. He will punish you where ye look upon a person secretly. 11. Will he not terrify you when he shall stand forth, and his fear shall fall upon you? 12. Your memory shall be likened unto ashes, and your back shall be as a heap of glue. 13. Keep silence from me, that I may speak: I shall not want. 14. Why should I bite my flesh with my teeth, and put my soul into my hands? 15. Behold, he shall slay me, and I cannot wait: but I will punish my ways before him. 16. He shall be my salvation: for there shall no hypocrite come before him. 17. Hear my speech and my interpretation in your ears. 18. Behold, I have already pronounced judgment; I know that I shall be just. 19. Who is he that will be right with me? But now I must be silent and perish. 20. Only do not two things to me, and I will not hide myself from thee: 21. Let thy hand be far from me, and let not thy terror terrify me. 22. Call unto me, and I will answer thee: or I will speak, answer thou me. 23. How much is my iniquity and my sin? Let me know my transgression and sin! 24. Why hidest thou thy face, and holdest me for thine enemy? 25. Wilt thou be so earnest against a flying leaf, and pursue a scrawny stalk? 26. For thou writest me in affliction, and wilt destroy me for the sins of my youth. 27. Thou hast put my foot in staves, and hast watched all my paths, and hast seen the footsteps of my feet, 28. I am wasting away like a rotten carcass, and like a garment that is eaten by moths. (Job) Chapter 14 Of the nothingness of human life. Man born of woman liveth a short time, and is full of unrest, 2. Arise as a flower, and fall down; flit as a shadow, and abide not. 3. And thou openest thine eyes upon such a thing, that thou bringest me before thee into judgment. 4. who will find a pure one among them, since none is pure? 5. He hath his appointed time, the number of his months is with thee: thou hast finely appointed, he shall not pass over. 6. Depart from him, that he may have rest, till his time come, whose he waiteth for as a hired servant. 7. A tree hath hope, when it is cut down, that it will change again, and its shoots will not cease. 8. Whether his root be dead in the earth, and his stem die in the dust, 9. yet it is green again from the smell of the water, and grows therefore as if it were planted. 10. But where is a man when he is dead and perished and gone? 11. As the waters go out of the lake, and as a river run dry, and dry up, 12. So is a man when he lieth down, and shall not rise, neither shall he awake while the heavens remain, nor be awakened from his sleep. 13. Oh that thou wouldest hide me in hell, and harden me, till thy wrath be turned away, and set a purpose for me, that thou shouldest remember me! 14: Thinkest thou that a dead man shall live again? I wait daily, while I strive, till my change come, 15. That thou wouldest call unto me, and I would answer thee, and not fail in the work of thine hands. 16. For thou hast already numbered my steps; but thou wilt not be mindful of my sin. 17. Thou hast sealed up my transgression in a bundle, and gathered my iniquity together. 18. But a mountain falleth, and perisheth, and a rock is moved out of his place. 19. Water washeth away stones, and the drops flow away the earth: but the hope of man is lost. 20. For thou hast overthrown him, that he should come to pass; thou hast changed his nature, and let him go. 21. If his children be honourable, he knoweth it not: or if they be little, he knoweth it not. 22. Because he hath the flesh upon him, he must have pain; and because his soul is yet with him, he must ask for sorrow. (Job) Chapter 15 Eliphaz wants to make a hypocrite out of Job. 1. Then Eliphaz of Theman answered and said: 2. Shall a wise man speak such puffed-up words, and distend his belly with loose talk? 3. Thou hast punished with words that are not good, and thy speech is not profitable. 4. you have abandoned fear and speak too contemptuously before God. 5. For thy iniquity hath taught thy mouth, and thou hast chosen a wicked tongue. 6. Thy mouth shall condemn thee, and not I: thy lips shall answer thee. Seventh, art thou the first man born? Art thou conceived before all hills? 8. Hast thou heard God's secret counsel? and is wisdom itself less than thou? 9. What knowest thou that we know not? What do you understand that is not with us?; 10. There are gray men and old men among us, which have lived longer than thy fathers. 11. Shall God's consolations be so small before thee? But you still have a secret piece with you. Twelve: What dost thou intend in thy heart? What do you see so proudly? 13. Why dost thou set thy heart against God, to let such words proceed out of thy mouth? 14. What is a man, that he should be clean, and that he should be righteous that is born of woman? 15. Behold, there is none blameless among his saints, neither are the heavens clean before him. 16. How much more a man that is abominable and vile, that drinketh iniquity like water? 17. I will show thee, hear me; and I will tell thee what I have seen, 18. Which the wise men have spoken, and have not hid from their fathers, 19. To whom only the land is given, that no stranger should pass through it. 20. The wicked trembleth all the days of his life: and the number of his years is hid from the tyrant. 21. That which he heareth terrifieth him; and though it be peace, he feareth that the destroyer cometh; 22. Believeth not that he may escape calamity, and always doth take up the sword. 23. He goeth to and fro for bread, and thinketh always that the time of his calamity is at hand. 24. Fear and distress terrify him, and smite him as a king with an army. 25. For he hath stretched forth his hand against God, and hath rebelled against the Almighty. 26. He runneth headlong against him, and fighteth stiffnecked against him. 27. He boasteth himself like a fat belly, and maketh himself fat and fatty. 28. But he shall dwell in desolate cities, where there are no heads, but lie in heaps. 29. He shall not abide rich, neither shall his goods endure, neither shall his fortunes spread abroad. 30. Accident shall not depart from him. The flame shall wither his branches, and by the breath of her mouth shall eat him away. 31. He shall not stand, for he is deceived in his vain conceit, and vain shall be his reward. 32. He shall come to an end when it is rough with him, and his branch shall not green. 33. He shall be cut off as an untimely cluster from the vine, and as an olive tree casteth her blossom. 34. For the assembly of the hypocrite shall be solitary, and the fire shall devour the tabernacles that take gifts. 35. She conceiveth with mischief, and bringeth forth trouble; and her belly bringeth forth evil. (Job) Chapter 16 Job testifies to his innocence. 1. Job answered and said: 2. I have often heard these things. You are all sorrowful comforters. 3. will the loose words have no end? Or what makes you so bold, so to speak? 4. I could speak as you do. Would to God that your soul were in my place! I would also sit with words upon you, and so shake my head over you. 5. I would strengthen you with my mouth, and comfort you with my lips. 6. But if I speak, my grief spareth not me: if I tarry, it shall not depart from me. 7. But now he hath wearied me, and hath destroyed all that I am. 8. He hath made me frown, and hath testified against me: and mine adversary hath rebelled against me, and answered against me. 9. His wrath is sore, and he that is angry with me gnasheth his teeth at me: mine adversary gleameth upon me with his eyes. 10. They have opened their mouths against me, and have smitten me shamefully on my cheeks; they have burned their courage together against me. 11. God hath delivered me up to the wicked, and delivered me into the hands of the wicked. 12. I was rich, but he hath brought me to nought; he hath taken me by the neck, and crushed me, and set me up for his purpose: 13. He hath compassed me about with his protectors; he hath cleft my kidneys, and not spared them; he hath poured out my gall upon the earth; 14. He hath made me one wound upon another; he hath run upon me like a mighty man. 15. I have sewed sackcloth about my skin, and have laid my horn in the dust. 16. My face is swollen with weeping, and my eyelids are darkened, 17. Though there be no iniquity in mine hand, and my prayer be pure. 18. O earth, cover not my blood, and let not my cry find room. 19. Behold also, my witness is in heaven; and he that knoweth me is on high. 20. My friends are my mockers: but mine eye doth water unto GOD. 21. If a man could be right with God as a man's child with his friend! 22. But the appointed years are come, and I go away by the way which I shall not return. (Job) Chapter 17 Job goes on to recount his misery and innocence. 1. My breath is weak, and my days are cut short; the grave is come. 2. No man is deceived of me, neither doth mine eye abide in grief because of it. 3. Whether thou wilt have a surety for me, who will pledge for me? 4. Thou hast hid the understanding of their hearts: therefore shalt thou not exalt them. 5. He shall praise the spoil of his friends, but the eyes of his children shall fail. 6. He hath made me a proverb among men, and must be a wonder among them. 7. My form is darkened with grief, and all my limbs are as a shadow. 8. The righteous shall see evil of it, and the innocent shall sit down against the hypocrites. 9. The righteous shall keep his way, and he of clean hands shall be strong. 10. Come now, all of you, and come; for I will not find a wise man among you. 11. My days are passed away, my attempts are cut off, which have possessed my heart, 12. And have made the night day, and the day night. 13. Though I tarry long, yet is hell my house, and in darkness is my bed made. 14. the decay I call my father, and the worms my mother and my sister. 15. What shall I wait for? and who shall respect my hope? 16. Down into hell shall it go, and shall lie with me in the dust. (Job) Chapter 18 Bildad mingles Job with the wicked. 1. Then answered Bildad of Suah, and said: 2. When will you put an end to this speech? Mark you, after this we will talk. 3. Why are we esteemed as cattle, and are so unclean in your sight? 4. Wilt thou burst with wickedness? Thinkest thou that for thy sake the earth shall be forsaken, and the rock removed from her place? 5. Also the light of the wicked shall be put out, and the spark of his fire shall not shine. 6. The light shall be darkened in his tabernacle, and his candle shall be put out upon him. 7. The approaches of his substance shall be narrow, and his stroke shall cut him down. 8. For his feet are bound in snares, and he walketh in the net. 9. The rope shall hold his heels, and the foolish shall catch him. 10. His snare is laid in the earth, and his trap upon his walk. 11. Around and around shall he be terrified with sudden fear, that he shall not know whither to go out. 12. Hunger shall be his possession, and calamity shall be prepared for him, and shall cleave unto him. 13. The strength of his skin shall be consumed, and his strength shall the prince of death devour. 14. His hope shall be plucked out of his tabernacle, and they shall drive him to the king of terrors. 15. Nothing shall be left in his tabernacle: brimstone shall be sprinkled upon his tabernacle. 16. From beneath shall his roots wither, and from above shall his harvest be cut off. 17. His memory shall perish in the land, and shall have no name in the street. 18. he shall be cast out from the light into darkness, and shall be cast out from the face of the earth. 19. He shall have no children, neither shall he have any nephews among his people: there shall none remain unto him in his goods. 20. They that come after him shall be astonished at his day: and they that are before him shall fear. 21. This is the dwelling place of the unrighteous, and this is the place of him that esteemeth not God. (Job) Chapter 19 Job speaks of his misery and his comfort from the resurrection. 1. Job answered and said: 2. Why do ye trouble my soul, and torment me with words? 3. Ye have now heard me ten times, and are not ashamed that ye compass me about thus. 4. If I am wrong, I am wrong. 5. But ye truly exalt yourselves against me, and reproach me to my shame. 6. Behold, God hath wronged me once, and hath compassed me about with his snare. 7. Behold, though I cry for iniquity, yet am I not heard; I cry, and there is no justice. 8. He hath hedged up my way, that I should not pass over: he hath put darkness in my path. 9. He hath stripped me of my glory, and taken the crown from off my head. 10. He hath broken me over and over, and let me go, and plucked up my hope like a tree. 11. His wrath is kindled against me, and he esteemeth me his enemy. 12. His men of war came together, and paved their way over me, and encamped round about my tabernacle. 13. He hath put my brethren far from me, and my kinsmen are strangers unto me. 14. My neighbours have withdrawn themselves, and my friends have forgotten me. 15. My household and my handmaidens think me a stranger: I am become unknown in their sight. 16. I called unto my servant, and he answered me not: I besought him with my own mouth. 17. My wife is a stranger when I call unto her: I beseech the children of my womb. 18. Even the young children give no heed unto me: if I sit down against them, they give me evil words. 19. All my faithful have abhorred me: and they whom I have loved have turned against me. 20. My bones cleave to my skin and my flesh, and my teeth cannot be covered with my skin. 21. Have mercy upon me, have mercy upon me, ye my friends: for the hand of GOD hath touched me. 22. Why persecutest thou me as well as God, and canst not be satisfied with my flesh? 23. Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were written in a book! 24. would be hewn with an iron stylus upon lead, and into a rock for everlasting remembrance! 25. But I know that my Redeemer liveth; and he shall raise me up from the earth afterward; 26. And afterward I will be surrounded with this skin of mine, and I will see God in my flesh. 27. I will see him, and mine eyes shall behold him, and no stranger. My kidneys are consumed in my bosom. 28. For ye say, How shall we pursue him, and find a cause unto him? 29. Fear the sword: for the sword is the wrath of iniquity, that ye may know judgment. (Job) Chapter 20 Zophar's speech of the ungodly's fickle fortune. 1. Then Zophar of Naema answered and said: 2. To this I must answer, and cannot wait. 3. And I will gladly hear who shall reprove and rebuke me: for the spirit of my understanding shall answer for me. 4. Knowest thou not that it hath been so ever since men were upon the earth? 5. That the glory of the wicked endureth not long, and the joy of the hypocrite endureth for a moment? 6. Though his height reach unto heaven, and his head touch the clouds, 7. But at the last he shall perish as dung, and they before whom he is seen shall say, Where is he? 8. As a dream passeth away, so shall it not be found; and as a vision vanisheth away in the night. 9. Whose eye hath seen him shall see him no more, neither shall his place behold him any more. 10. His children shall go begging, and his hand shall give him toil for wages. 11. His legs shall well pay for his secret sin, and shall lie down with him in the earth. 12. Though wickedness be pleasant in his mouth, yet shall it be wanting in his tongue. 13. It shall be stopped, and it shall not be permitted unto him; and it shall be denied him in his throat. 14. His inward food in his body shall be turned into the gall of vipers. 15. The goods which he hath swallowed he shall spue out: and God shall cast them out of his belly. 16. He shall suck the gall of vipers, and the serpent's tongue shall kill him. 17. He shall not see the rivers, nor the brooks of water flowing with honey and butter. 18. He shall labour, and not profit; and his goods shall be changed, and he shall not enjoy them. 19. For he hath oppressed and forsaken the poor; he hath taken unto himself houses which he built not. 20. For his belly could not be filled, neither shall he escape by his precious substance. 21. His meat shall not remain: therefore his good life shall not endure. 22. Though he have abundance and plenty, yet shall he be afraid; all manner of trouble shall come upon him. 23: And his belly shall be full, and he shall send the fury of his wrath upon him; and he shall rain upon him his strife. 24. He shall flee from the armour of iron, and the bow of brass shall drive him out. 25. A mere sword shall go out by him, and the lightning of the sword, which shall be bitter unto him, shall pass over him with terror. 26. There is no darkness to cover him. A fire shall consume him that is not puffed up: and he that is left in his tabernacle shall be in a bad way. 27. Heaven shall open his iniquity, and the earth shall sit down against him. 28. The corn of his house shall be carried away, scattered in the day of his wrath. 29. This is the reward of an ungodly man with God, and the inheritance of his speech with God. (Job) Chapter 21 Job refutes Zophar's talk of the happiness and punishment of the wicked. 1. Job answered and said: 2. Hearken ye unto my speech, and be advised. 3. Trust me to speak also, and afterward mock me. 4. Do I then deal with a man, that my courage should not be unwilling in this? 5. Turn ye hither unto me: ye shall see sore, and shall put your hand to your mouth. 6. When I remember it, I am afraid, and trembling cometh upon my flesh. 7. Why then do the wicked live, and grow old, and increase in goods? 8. Their seed is safe round about them, and their offspring are with them. 9. Their house is at peace from fear, and God's rod is not upon them. 10. They feed his oxen, and do not wrong him: his heifer calves, and is not barren. 11. Her young children go forth as a flock, and her children lick. 12. They shout with timbrels and harps, and are glad with pipes. 13. They wax old in good days, and are scarce a moment afraid of hell; 14. Who say unto God, Be thou removed from us; we will depart from thy ways. 15. Who is the Almighty, that we should serve him? or what are we improved, if we call upon him? 16. But, behold, their goods are not in their hands: therefore let the mind of the wicked be far from me. 17. How shall the light of the wicked be put out, and their calamity come upon them! He shall deal out heartache in his wrath. 18. They shall be as stubble before the wind, and as chaff which the whirlwind leadeth away. 19. God hath reserved this calamity for his children. When he shall repay him, it shall be remembered. 20. His eyes shall see his destruction, and he shall drink of the wrath of the Almighty. 21. For who shall have pleasure in his house after him? And the number of his moons shall hardly remain half. 22. Who will teach GOD, who also judges the high ones? 23. this one dies fresh and healthy in all riches and full sufficiency; 24. His milking vessel is full of milk, and his bones are fattened with marrow; 25. But he dieth with a sorrowful soul, and never did eat with joy; 26. and lie alike in the earth, and worms cover them. 27. Behold, I know your thoughts well, and your wicked devices against me. 28. For ye say, Where is the house of the prince? and where is the tabernacle where the wicked dwell? 29. But ye speak of it as the common rabble, and know not what that being is. 30. For the wicked shall be kept unto the day of destruction, and shall abide in the day of wrath. 31. Who shall say what he deserveth, when he looketh upon it outwardly? Who shall recompense him for what he doeth? 32. But he is carried away to the grave, and abideth with the multitude. 33. The mud of the brook pleased him well, and all men are drawn after him: and of them that were before him there is no number. 34. How in vain do ye comfort me, and your answer is found unjust. (Job) Chapter 22 Eliphaz, however, once again casts doubt on Job's piety. 1. Then Eliphaz of Theman answered and said: 2. what may GOD of a strong man, and what profit is he to a wise man? 3. Thinkest thou that it pleaseeth the Almighty that thou shouldest be so godly? Or what doth it profit him, though thou regard thy ways without change? 4. Thinkest thou that he will be afraid to punish thee, and will stand in judgment with thee? 5. Yea, thy wickedness is too great, and there is no end to thine iniquity. 6. Thou hast taken a pledge from thy brother without a cause; thou hast stripped the naked of their garments; 7. thou hast not watered the weary with water, and hast denied thy bread to the hungry; 8. Thou hast wrought violence in the land, and hast sat magnificently in it; 9. the widows thou hast let go empty, and the arms of the fatherless thou hast broken. 10. Wherefore thou art compassed about with cords, and fear hath suddenly terrified thee. 11. Shouldest thou not see the darkness, and the flood of waters not cover thee? 12. Behold, God is high in the heavens, and behold the stars on high. 13.. And thou sayest, What doth God know? Shall He be able to judge that which is in darkness? 14. The clouds are his covering, and he seeth not, and walketh in the company of the heavens. 15. Wilt thou respect the course of the world, wherein the unrighteous have walked? 16. Which were passed away before the time, and the waters washed away the bottom thereof, 17. Who said to GOD: Remove thyself from us, what shall the Almighty be able to do unto them? 18. If he fill her house with goods? But let the counsel of the wicked be far from me! 19. The righteous shall see, and rejoice; and the innocent shall mock at them. 20. What matter, their essence shall vanish, and their rest shall consume the fire! 21. Now therefore make thy peace with him, and be at peace: from it much good shall come unto thee. 22. Hear the law from his mouth, and lay hold on his words in thine heart. 23. If thou turn unto the Almighty, thou shalt be built, and shalt do iniquity far from thy tabernacle, 24. Then shalt thou give gold for the earth, and streams of gold for the rocks; 25. And the Almighty shall be thy gold, and silver shall be heaped unto thee. 26. Then you will delight in the Almighty and lift up your face to GOD. 27. So shalt thou entreat him, and he shall hear thee: and thou shalt pay thy vows. 28. What thou shalt undertake, he shall make thee prosper: and the light shall shine in thy path. 29. For he that humbleth himself exalteth them: and he that putteth down his eyes shall recover. 30. And the innocent shall be saved: but he shall be saved because of the cleanness of his hands. (Job) Chapter 23 Job appeals to God's judgment seat for the sake of his good conscience. 1. Job answered and said: 2. My speech is yet grieved; my power is weak above my groaning. 3. Oh that I knew how to find him, and how to come to his throne! 4. and the law before him should submit, and take a mouthful of punishment 5. and learn the speech which he would answer me, and hear what he would say to me! 6. Will he deal with me with great power? Let him not stand thus against me, 7. But lay it before me straightway, and I shall win my right. 8. But if I go straight before me, he is not there: if I go back, I feel him not. 9. If he be on the left hand, I will not take him: if he be hid on the right hand, I will not see him. 10. But he knoweth my way. Try me, and I shall be found as gold. 11. For I set my foot in his way, and keep his path, and turn not aside. 12. And tread not from the commandment of his lips; and keep the speech of his mouth more than I owe. 13. He is agreed, who will answer him? And he does it as he wills. 14. And though he recompense me that which I have earned, yet is his more behind. 15. Therefore I am afraid of him; and when I perceive, I am afraid of him. 16. God hath made my heart foolish, and the Almighty hath affrighted me. 17. For the darkness maketh no end of me, and the darkness will not be hid from me. (Job) Chapter 24 Of God's hidden yet righteous government, concerning the misery of the pious and the happiness of the wicked. 1. Why should not the times be hid from the Almighty? And they that know him see not his days. 2. They drive back the borders; they rob the flocks, and feed them. 3. They take away the asses of the fatherless, and take the oxen of the widows for a prey. 4. the poor must give way to them, and the needy in the land must cower. 5. Behold, the wild beasts of the wilderness go forth early to the prey, as they tend, to prepare food for the young. 6. They reap in the field all that it yieldeth, and gather the vineyard which they have wrongfully. 7. They leave them that are naked, and leave them no covering in the frost, from whom they have taken away their garments, 8. That they must cleave unto the rocks, when a downpour is poured upon them from the mountains; for otherwise they have no comfort. 9. They pluck the child from the breasts, and make him an orphan, and make the people poor with pledges. 10. They let the naked go without clothes, and they take the sheaves from the hungry. 11. They force them to make oil in their own mill, and to tread their own winepress, and yet make them suffer thirst. 12. They make the people of the city groan, and the souls of the slain cry out; and GOD overthrow them not. 13. Therefore have they turned aside from the light, and know not his way, and return not again unto his highway. 14. When the day dawneth, the murderer riseth up, and slayeth the poor and needy: and by night he is as a thief. 15. The eye of the adulterer looketh on the darkness, and saith, Eye seeth me not; and covereth his face. 16. In darkness he breaketh in upon the houses. By day they hide themselves together, and shun the light. 17. For when the morning cometh, it is unto them as darkness: for he knoweth the terror of darkness. 18. He saileth lightly, as upon the waters: his substance is few in the land, and he treadeth not his vineyard. 19. Hell taketh away them that sin, as the heat and the drought consume the snow water. 20. The merciful shall be forgotten; his desire shall become wormwood; he shall be remembered no more; he shall be broken as a rotten tree. 21. He hath offended the lone that beareth not, and hath not done good to the widow. 22. And the mighty are drawn under him with his power. If he stand, he shall not be sure of his life. 23. He maketh him sure himself, that he may rely thereon: but his eyes are upon their doings. 24. They are exalted for a little season, and shall be destroyed, and subdued, and utterly cut off; and as the first blossom of the ears of corn they shall be cut off. 25. Is it not so? Well then, who will give me the lie, and prove that my speech is nothing? (Job) Chapter 25 Before God, all men are sinners. 1. Then answered Bildad of Suah, and said: 2. Is not dominion and fear with him that maketh peace among his high ones? 3. Who shall number his men of war? And over whom will not his light go? 4. And how shall a man be righteous in the sight of God? And how shall a woman's child be pure? 5. Behold, the moon shineth not yet, neither are the stars yet pure in his sight; 6. how much less a man, the maggot, and a man-child, the worm? (Job) Chapter 26 Job praises God's majesty much more gloriously than Bildad. 1. Job answered and said: Secondly, whom wilt thou help? To him that hath no strength? Helpest thou him that hath no strength in arms? 3. To whom givest thou counsel? To him that hath no wisdom? and showest thou a mighty man how he shall do it? 4. For whom speakest thou, and for whom goest forth thy breath? 5. The giants were afraid among the waters, and they that dwelt by them. 6. Hell is laid open before him, and destruction hath no covering. 7. He spreadeth out the midnight nowhere, and hangeth the earth upon nothing. 8. He gathereth the waters into his clouds, and the clouds are not rent under them. 9. he holds his chair and spreads his clouds before it. 10. He hath set a mark round about the waters, until the light pass away with the darkness. 11. The pillars of heaven tremble and are terrified at his rebuke. 12. Before his strength the sea is suddenly impetuous, and before his understanding the height of the sea is lifted up. 13. The heavens are made fair by his wind, and his hand prepareth the straight serpent. 14. Behold, this is the way of his doings: but of it we have heard a small word. But who shall understand the thunder of his power? (Job) Chapter 27 Job, to save his innocence, holds the pious and hypocrite against each other. 1. And Job continued, and began his sayings, and said: 2. As God liveth, who hath not let my right go, and the Almighty, who hath afflicted my soul, 3. As long as my breath is in me, and the snorting of GOD is in my nostrils: 4. My lips shall speak no unrighteousness, and my tongue shall speak no deceit. 5. Far be it from me to justify you: until my end come, I will not depart from my godliness. 6. Of my righteousness which I have I will not depart: my conscience doth not bite me for all my life. 7. But mine enemy shall be found ungodly, and he that rebels against me unrighteous. 8. For what is the hope of the hypocrite, that he should be so stingy, and yet God should take away his soul? 9. do you think that GOD will hear his cry when fear comes upon him? 10. How can he delight in the Almighty, and call upon God? 11. I will teach you of the hand of GOD: and that which is with the Almighty I will not hide. 12. Behold, ye all think yourselves wise. Why then do ye pretend to such useless things? 13. This is the reward of a godless man with GOD, and the inheritance of tyrants, which they will take from the Almighty: 14. If he have many children, they shall be of the sword: and his seed shall not be full of bread. 15. His remnant shall be buried in death, and his widows shall not weep. 16. When he gathereth together money like earth, and gathereth together garments like glue, 17. He shall well prepare it: but the righteous shall put it on, and the innocent shall give out the money. 18. He buildeth his house like a spider, and maketh a shower like a keeper. 19. The rich man, when he lieth down, shall not carry it away: he shall open his eyes, and there shall be nothing. 20. Terrors shall overtake him as the waters: in the night the tempest shall take him away. 21. The east wind shall carry him away, and he shall go adrift: and the violence shall drive him out of his place. 22. He shall bring these things upon him, and shall not spare him: all things shall pass out of his hand. 23. They shall clap their hands over him, and hiss over him, because he hath been. (Job) Chapter 28 Praise of wisdom to GOtt and man. 1. Silver hath its courses, and gold hath its place, where it is melted. 2. Iron is brought out of the earth, and ore is smelted out of stones. 3. There shall ever be an end of darkness, and someone shall at last find the slate hid deep. 4. And such a brook cometh up, that they that dwell therein lose their way thither: and it falleth again, and passeth away from among the people. 5. Fire also is brought up out of the ground beneath, when there is food growing up above. 6. Sapphires are found in many places, and nuggets of earth where there is gold. 7. no bird hath seen the path, no vulture's eye hath seen it. 8. The proud children have not trodden upon it, neither have any lions trodden upon it. 9. And they lay hands on the rocks, and dig up the mountains. 10. Streams are plucked out of the rocks; and all that is good is seen of the eye. 11. Forbid the river of water, and bring to light that which is hid therein. 12. But where shall wisdom be found, and where is the place of understanding? 13. No man knoweth where it is, neither is it found in the land of the living. 14. The bottomless pit saith, She is not in me: and the sea saith, She is not with me. 15. Gold cannot be given for them, neither can silver be weighed to pay for them. 16. It is not like unto her ophiric gold, or precious onyx and sapphire. 17. Gold and jewels shall not be like her, neither shall gold change for her. 18. Ramoth and Gabi are not esteemed. Wisdom is to be weighed higher than pearls. 19. Topazius from Mohrenland is not equally esteemed to her, and the purest gold is not equally esteemed to her. 20: Whence then is wisdom, and where is the place of understanding? 21. It is hid from the eyes of all the living, even from the birds of the air. Twenty-two: Damnation and death speak: We have heard with our ears their rumor. 23. God knoweth the way thereof, and knoweth the place thereof. 24. For he seeth the ends of the earth, and beholdeth all things under heaven. 25. And he made the wind his weight, and set the waters their measure, 26. For he made the rain a goal, and the lightning and the thunder a way, 27. Then saw he them, and told them, and prepared them, and invented them; 28. And said unto the man, Behold, the fear of the LORD, that is wisdom; and to shun evil, that is understanding. (Job) Chapter 29 Job recounts his previous bliss. 1. And Job lifted up his proverbs again, and said: 2. That I might be as in the former moons, in the days when God kept me, 3. When his lamp shined upon my head, and I walked by his light in darkness; 4. As I was in the days of my youth, when God's secret was over my tabernacle; 5. While the Almighty was yet with me, and my children about me; 6. When I washed my steps in butter, and the rocks poured me rivers of oil; 7. And I went out unto the gate of the city, and made ready my seat in the street; 8. When the young men saw me, and hid themselves, and the old men were ashamed before me; 9. When the princes ceased to speak, and laid their hand upon their mouth; 10. When the voice of the princes was hid, and their tongue cleaved to the roof of their mouth. 11. For every ear that heard me blessed me, and every eye that saw me glorified me. 12. For I delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless that had no helper. 13. The blessing of him that should destroy came upon me; and I rejoiced the heart of the widow. 14. Righteousness was my garment, which I put on like a skirt; and my right was my princely hat. 15. I was the eye of the blind, and the feet of the lame. 16. I was a father of the poor: and what things I knew not, them I searched out. 17. I brake the molars of the wicked, and plucked the spoil out of his teeth. 18, I thought: I will die in my nest, and make my days much as the sand. 19. My seed came up by the waters; and the dew remained upon my harvest. 20. My glory was always renewed in me; and my bow was improved in my hand. 21. They hearkened unto me, and held their peace, and waited for my counsel. 22. After my words no man spake any more; and my speech dripped upon them. 23. They waited for me as for the rain, and opened their mouths as after the evening rain. 24. When I laughed at them, they became not bold upon it, and the light of my countenance made me no less. 25. When I came to their business, I sat on high, and dwelt as a king among the soldiers, comforting them that were in pain. (Job) Chapter 30 Job complains about his misery and his temptation. 1. But now laugh at mine that are younger than I, whose fathers I would have despised, to put among my sheep, 2. which fortunes I thought were nothing, which could not come to old age, 3. Who from hunger and grief fled lonely into the wilderness, and were lately corrupted and made miserable, 4. Who plucked up nettles round about the bushes, and juniper root was their meat; 5. And when they plucked them out, they rejoiced over them as a thief. 6. By the cruel brooks they dwelt, in the holes of the earth, and in the clefts of the stones. 7. Among the bushes they called, and among the thistles they gathered, 8. The children of loose and despised people, who were the least in the land. 9. Now am I become their strings, and must be their tale. 10. They have abhorred me, and have put themselves far from me, and have not spared to spit before my face. 11. They have unloosed my rope, and made me of none strength, and have cut off mine own. 12. On the right hand, when I was green, they set me again, and thrust out my foot; and made a way over me to destroy me. 13. They have broken my staves: it was so easy for them to hurt me, that they needed no help to do it. 14. They are come in, as to the wide breach, and are fallen down without order. 15. Terror hath turned itself against me, and hath pursued as the wind my glory, and as a running cloud my blessed estate. 16. But now my soul poureth out upon me, and the wretched time hath taken hold upon me. 17. In the night my bones are pierced in every place, and they that hunt me lie not down. 18. By the multitude of strength I am clothed differently and differently; and I am girded therewith as with the hole of my skirt. 19. I have been trodden in dung, and counted as dust and ashes. 20. If I cry unto thee, thou answerest me not: if I come forth, thou regardest me not. 21. Thou art turned unto me into a cruel man, and showest thy grief upon me with the strength of thine hand. 22. Thou liftest me up, and makest me to run on the wind, and makest me to melt. 23. For I know that thou wilt deliver me to death: there is the appointed house of all the living. 24. But he shall not stretch forth his hand into the charnel house, neither shall they cry out because of his destruction. 25. For I wept in the hard time, and my soul mourned for the poor. 26. I waited for good, and evil cometh: I hoped for light, and darkness cometh. 27. My bowels boil, and cease not: the wretched time hath overtaken me. 28. I walk in black, and yet no sun burneth me: I stand up in the congregation, and cry. 29. I am a brother of serpents and a companion of ostriches. 30. My skin is blackened above me, and my bones are withered from the heat. 31. My harp is become a lamentation, and my pipe a weeping. (Job) Chapter 31 Job's blameless change. 1. I have made a covenant with mine eyes, that I should not regard a virgin. 2. But what reward doth God give me from above? and what inheritance doth the Almighty give me from on high? 3. Ought not the unjust to have such misfortune, and a transgressor to be so cast down? 4. Seeth he not my ways, and numbereth all my courses? 5. Have I walked in vanity? or hath my foot hastened to deceit? 6. Weigh me in the right balance, and God shall know my piety. 7. My walk is gone out of the way, and my heart followeth mine eyes; and there is something in my hands, 8. Then shall I sow, and another shall eat it, and my seed shall be rooted up. 9. My heart hath been provoked to wife, and I have lain in wait at my neighbour's door, 10. Let my wife be defiled by another, and let others put her to sleep. 11. For this is a vice and an iniquity unto the judges. 12. For that would be a fire that would consume to destruction, and root out all my income. 13. I have despised the right of my servant, or of my handmaid, when they had a matter against me, 14. What would I do when GOD arose, and what would I answer when He visited? 15. Did not he also make him that made me in the womb, and prepare him in the body likewise? 16. Have I denied the desire of the needy, and made the eyes of widows to languish? 17. Have I eaten mine own morsel, and not the fatherless also eaten thereof? 18. For I, from my youth, have kept myself as a father: and from my mother's womb I have been glad to comfort. 19. Have I seen a man perish because he had no raiment, and the poor man go without a covering? 20. Have not his sides blessed me, when he was warmed with the skins of my lambs? 21. I have laid my hand upon the fatherless, because I saw myself in the gate having power to help, 22. Then let my shoulder fall from the armpit, and my arm break from the tube. 23. For I fear GOD as an accident upon me, and could not bear his burden. 24. Have I put the gold for my confidence, and said unto the nugget of gold, My consolation? 25. Was I glad that I had great goods, and that my hand had gotten all things? 26. Have I looked upon the light when it shineth brightly, and upon the moon when it goeth full? 27. Hath my heart been secretly persuaded, that my hand may kiss my mouth? 28. Which also is an iniquity for the judges: for thereby would I have denied GOD from above. 29. Have I rejoiced when mine enemy was in evil, and exalted myself that evil had befallen him? 30. For I would not let my mouth sin, that he should desire a curse upon his soul. 31. Have not the men of my tabernacle said, O would God that we were not satisfied with his flesh! 32. the guest did not have to stay outside, but I opened my door to the wayfarer. 33. Have I covered my wickedness like a man, to hide my iniquity in secret? 34. Did I let myself be afraid of the great multitude, and was I put off by the contempt of friendships? I remained silent and did not go out the door. 35. Who shall give me an interrogator, that my desire may be heard of the Almighty, that someone may write a book of my cause? 36. Then would I take it upon mine armpits, and bind it about me like a crown. 37. I would declare the number of my courses, and like a prince would I offer them. 38. My land shall cry out against me, and shall weep her furrows together; 39. I have eaten its fruit without payment, and have made the life of the husbandmen sour, 40. So I grow thistles for wheat and thorns for barley. The words of Job have an end. (Job) Chapter 32 Elihu is angry at the silence of Job's friends. 1. Then the three men ceased answering Job, because he thought himself righteous. 2. And Elihu the son of Baracheel, of Bus, of the family of Ram, was wroth with Job, because he thought his soul more righteous than God. 3. And he was wroth with his three friends, because they found no answer, and yet condemned Job. 4. For Elihu had tarried until they had spoken unto Job, because they were older than he. 5. Therefore when he saw that there was no answer in the mouth of the three men, he was wroth. 6. And Elihu the son of Baracheel, of Bus, answered and said: I am young, but ye are old: therefore have I been afraid and dreaded to shew mine art upon you. 7. I said, Let the years speak, and let the multitude of age shew wisdom. 8. But the spirit is in the people, and the breath of the Almighty makes them understand. 9: The great are not the wisest, and the old do not understand the law. 10. Therefore will I also speak; hearken unto me. I will also let my art be seen. 11. Behold, I have kept watch over your words; I have kept watch over your understanding, until ye have done right speaking, 12. And I have taken heed unto you: but, behold, there is none among you to reprove Job, or to answer his speech. 13. Ye may say, We have met with wisdom, that God hath cast him out, and none else. 14. This speech doth not do for me: I will not answer him thus after your speech. 15. Alas! they are despondent, they can no more answer, they can no more speak. 16. Because I have tarried, and they could not speak (for they stand still, and answer no more), 17. yet I will answer my part, and will prove my art; 18. For I am so full of words, that the breath of my belly is troubled. 19. Behold, my belly is like the must that is stopped up, which breaketh the new casks. 20. I must speak, that I may draw breath; I must open my lips, and answer. 21. I will not look upon any man's person, neither will I glory in any man. 22. For I know not where I would, if my Maker would take me over a little one. (Job) Chapter 33 Elihu defends God's justice. 11. Hear now, O Job, my speech, and mark all my words. 2. Behold, I open my mouth, and my tongue speaketh in my mouth. 3. My heart shall speak right, and my lips shall speak the pure mind. 4. the Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty has given me life. 5. If thou canst, answer me: send thee against me, and stand! 6. Behold, I am God's as well as thine, and of glue also am I made. 7. But thou shalt not be afraid of me, neither shall my hand be heavy unto thee. 8. Thou hast spoken in mine ears; I have heard the voice of thy speech: 9. I am pure, without iniquity, innocent, having no sin. 10. Behold, he hath found a thing against me; therefore he reckoneth me to be his enemy. 11. He hath put my foot in a stick, and hath kept all my ways. 12. Behold, from this very thing I conclude against thee, that thou art not right: for God is more than man. 13. Why wilt thou quarrel with him, that he will not give thee an account of all his doings? 14. For when God decideth a thing, he considereth it not afterward. 15. in the dream of the face at night, when sleep falls upon the people, when they sleep upon the bed, 16. Then he openeth the ear of the people, and startleth them, and chasteneth them, 17. That he may turn a man from his purpose, and guard him from pride. 18. And spare his soul from destruction, and his life from falling by the sword. 19. He punisheth him with pains upon his bed, and all his bones severely; 20. And he hath made his life to be disgusted with food, and his soul to have no desire to eat. 21. His flesh is wasted, that he may not see; and his legs are bruised, that they may not be looked upon with pleasure, 22. That his soul should come near to destruction, and his life to the dead. 23. And if an angel speak unto him, one of a thousand, to shew unto a man what he ought to do, 24. Then shall he have mercy upon him, saying, He shall be delivered, that he go not down to destruction: for I have found a propitiation. 25. His flesh green again as in youth, and let him be young again. 26. He shall beseech God, and He shall show him mercy, and shall make his face to be seen with joy, and shall recompense man according to his righteousness. 27. He shall confess before men, saying, I would have sinned, and perverted the law, but it availeth me nothing. 28. He hath redeemed my soul, that it should not go to destruction, but that my life should see the light. 29. Behold, God does all these things two or three times to each one, 30. That he may bring his soul round from destruction, and enlighten him with the light of the living. 31. Take heed, O Job, and hearken unto me, and be silent that I speak. 32. But if thou hast any thing to say, answer me; tell me if thou be right, and I will hear it gladly. 33. But if thou hast nothing, hear me, and hold thy peace, and I will teach thee wisdom. (Job) Chapter 34 Elihu chides Job's speeches and goes on to defend God's righteousness. 1. And Elihu answered and said: 2. Hear, ye wise men, my words; and, ye men of understanding, hearken unto me. 3. For the ear trieth speech, and the mouth tasteth meat. 4. Let us choose us a judgment, that we may know among ourselves what is good. 5. For Job hath said, I am righteous, and GOD denieth me my right. 6. I lie, if I be right; and I am pained with mine arrows, if I have done nothing wrong. 7. Who is such a one as Job, that drinketh mockery like water? 8. And walk in the way with evildoers, and walk with ungodly men? 9. For he hath said, Though a man be pious, yet is he not counted worthy with God. 10. Therefore hear me, ye wise men; Far be it from God to be wicked, and the Almighty to be unjust, 11. But he rewardeth a man according to his due, and afflicteth every man according to his deeds. 12. Without doubt, God condemns no one with injustice, and the Almighty does not bend justice. 13. Who hath ordained that which is in the earth, and who hath set the whole face of the earth? 14. And if he be subdued, he shall gather unto himself all spirit and breath. 15. all flesh would perish together, and man would return to ashes. 16. If then thou hast understanding, hear this, and hearken unto the voice of my saying. 17. Shall any man therefore force justice, that he may hate it? And because thou art proud, shouldest thou therefore condemn the righteous? 18. Shall any man say unto the king, Thou rascal, and unto the princes? Ye wicked! 19. Who regardeth not the persons of princes, neither knoweth he that is glorious more than he that is poor: for they are all the work of his hands. 20. Suddenly the people must die, and be afraid at midnight, and perish; the mighty are taken away powerless. 21. For his eyes behold every man's way, and he seeth all their courses. 22. There is no darkness nor obscurity, that evildoers should hide themselves there. 23. For it shall not be lawful for any man to reprove God. 24. He killeth many of the proud that cannot be numbered, and setteth others in their stead, 25. Because he knoweth their works, and turneth them back by night, that they may be destroyed. 26. He casteth the wicked over a heap, because they love to see it, 27. Because they departed from him, and missed none of his ways, 28. That the cry of the poor should come before him, and he should hear the cry of the afflicted. 29. If he give peace, who shall condemn? and if he hide his face, who shall behold him among the people and nations? 30. And let a hypocrite reign over them, to press the people. 31. I must speak for God, and I cannot refrain. 32. If I have not done right, teach me better: if I have done wrong, I will do it no more. 33. They wait for an answer from thee, because thou hast rejected all things: and thou hast begun them, and not I. If thou knowest any thing, tell me. 34. Wise men will I let tell me, and a wise man will hearken unto me. 35. But Job spake with foolishness, and his words are not wise. 36. My father, let Job be tried unto the end, that he may turn to wicked men. 37. He has blasphemed his sin in addition; therefore let him be smitten between us, and after that let him talk much against Allah. (Job) Chapter 35 Elihu's distant talk of God's justice. 1. And Elihu answered and said: 2. Seest thou that it is right for thee to say, I am righteous above God? 3. For thou sayest, Who is worth anything with thee? What profit is it, if I make myself without sin? 4. I will answer thee a word, and thy friends with thee. 5. Look toward heaven, and behold, and behold the clouds, that they are too high for thee. 6. If thou sin, what canst thou do unto him? And if thine iniquity be much, what canst thou do to him? 7. And if thou be righteous, what canst thou give him, or what will he take from thy hands? 8. A man as thou art may thy wickedness do, and a man's child thy righteousness. 9. Let them cry out when much violence is done unto them, and cry over the arm of the great, 10. who do not ask, where is God, my Creator, who makes the singing in the night, 11. Who maketh us more learned than the cattle of the earth, and wiser than the fowls of the air? 12. But they also shall cry out against the pride of the wicked, and he shall not hear them. 13. For God will not hear the vain, and the Almighty will not look upon it. 14. For this thou sayest, Thou shalt not see him. But there is a judgment before him: wait thou only for him, 15. If his wrath be not soon visited, and if it be not accepted that there be so many vices. 16. Wherefore Job hath opened his mouth in vain, and pretendeth to be a proud man with a foolish mind. (Job) Chapter 36 More distant proof of the justice, omnipotence and wisdom of God. 1. Elihu continued to speak, saying: 2. Wait yet a little, and I will shew thee: for I have yet a thing to say for God's sake. 3. I will take my understanding far, and prove my maker to be right. 4. My words shall not be false without a doubt; my understanding shall be without change before thee. 5. Behold, GOD rejecteth not the mighty: for he also is mighty in strength of heart. 6. He preserveth not the wicked, but helpeth the needy to do right. 7. He turneth not his eyes from the righteous: and he sitteth kings upon the throne for ever, that they may be exalted. 8. And where prisoners lie in staves, and bound with cords miserably, 9. Then shall he declare unto them what they have done, and their iniquity, that they have used violence. 10. And open unto them the ear of correction, and tell them to turn from that which is unjust. 11. If they obey and serve him, they shall grow old in good days, and live with pleasure. 12: If they obey not, they shall fall on the sword, and perish before they know it. 13. The hypocrites, when wrath is upon them, cry not out when they lie captive; 14. Then shall her soul die with anguish, and her life among the harlots. 15. But he shall deliver the wretched out of his affliction, and shall open the ear of the poor in tribulation. 16. He shall pluck thee out of the wide mouth of fear, which hath no bottom: and thy table shall have rest, full of all good. 17. But thou makest good the cause of the wicked, that their cause and right may be established. 18. See thou be not moved with anger to afflict any man, or that great gifts have not bowed thee down. 19. Thinkest thou that he will esteem thy power, or gold, or any strength, or fortune? 20. Thou shalt not covet the night to come upon the people in their place. 21. Beware, and turn not thou to iniquity, as thou didst begin in misery. 22. Behold, God is too high in His power; where is a teacher like Him? 23. Who shall punish his way against him, and who shall say unto him, Thou doest wrong? Chap. 24. Remember that thou knowest not his work, as men sing. 25. For all men see it, men behold it afar off. 26. Behold, God is great and unknown; the number of His years no man can inquire. 27. He maketh the waters small drops, and gathereth his clouds together for rain, 28. That the clouds flow and drip greatly upon men. 29. When he purposeth to spread out the clouds, as his high tent, 30. Behold, he spreadeth out his lightning upon them, and covereth all the ends of the sea. 31. For thereby he terrifieth the people, and yet giveth meat abundantly. 32. He covereth the lightning as with his hands, and yet calleth it to come again. 33. To which his companion, that is, the thunder's fury in the clouds, bears witness. (Job) Chapter 37 God's majesty is known from the book of nature. 1. my heart is amazed and trembles. 2. Hear ye, O beloved, how his thunder rageth, and what talk proceedeth out of his mouth. 3. He seeth under the heavens, and his lightning shineth upon the ends of the earth. 4. After this the thunder roareth, and thundereth with his great sound; and when his thunder is heard, it cannot be stopped. 5. God thundereth dreadfully with his thunder, and doeth great things, and is not known. 6. He saith unto the snow, and it is soon upon the earth; and unto the downpour, and the downpour is with power. 7. All men hath he in his hand as shut up, that men may learn what he can do. 8. The wild beast entereth into the cave, and abideth in his place. 9. from noon comes weather and from midnight cold. 10. From the breath of God cometh frost, and great waters, when He causeth to thaw. 11. The thick clouds part, that it may be light; and through the mist his light breaketh. 12. He turneth the clouds whithersoever he will, that they may do according to all that he hath given them upon the face of the earth, 13. Whether it be over a generation, or over a nation, if he be found merciful. 14. Take heed therefore, Job; stand, and hear the wonders of God. 15. Knowest thou when God bringeth these things upon them, and when he sendeth forth the light of his clouds? 16. Knowest thou how the clouds scatter? What wonders the perfect know. 17. That thy garments may be warm, when the land is still from the noonday wind? 18. Yea, thou wilt spread out with him the clouds that stand firm as a molten mirror. 19. Show us what we ought to say unto him: for we shall not reach thither for darkness. 20. Who shall tell him that I speak? If any man speak, he shall be swallowed up. 21. Now they see not the light that shineth in the clouds: but when the wind bloweth, it is clear. 22. From midnight comes gold to praise before the terrible GOtt. 23. But they may not understand the Almighty, who is so great in power; for he will not give account of his right and good cause. 24. Therefore men must fear him; and he feareth none, how wise they are. (Job) Chapter 38 God himself praises his omnipotence and wisdom. 1. And the LORD answered Job out of a weather, and said: 2. Who is he that lacketh wisdom, and speaketh ignorantly? 3. Gird up thy loins like a man: I will ask thee, teach me. Where wasst thou when I founded the earth? Tell me, art thou so wise? 5. Knowest thou who hath set the measure for her, or who hath drawn a rule over her? 6. Or whereon stand her feet sunk? Or who hath laid her a corner-stone? 7. When the morning stars praised me together, and all the children of God rejoiced? 8. Who hath shut up the sea with his doors, when it came out as of a mother's womb, 9. When I clothed it with clouds, and wrapped it in darkness, as in swaddling clothes, 10. And when I had broken his course with my dam, and set a bar and a door upon him 11. And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, and no further; hither shall thy proud waves be laid up? 12. Thou hast commanded the morning in thy time, and hast shewed the dawn her place, 13. To take the corners of the earth, and to shake out the wicked? 14. The seal shall change like glue, and they shall stand as a garment. 15. And the light of the wicked shall be taken away: and the arm of the proud shall be broken. 16. Art thou come into the bottom of the sea, and hast walked in the footsteps of the deep? 17. Have the gates of death ever been opened unto thee? Or hast thou seen the gates of darkness? 18. Hast thou heard how broad the earth is? Art thou acquainted with all these things? 19. Which is the way where light dwelleth, and which is the place of darkness? 20. That thou mayest take down his border, and know the way to his house? 21. Didst thou know that thou shouldest be born in that day, and how many days thou shouldest have? 22. Hast thou been where the snow cometh from, or hast thou seen where the hail cometh from? 23. Which I have kept until the time of trouble, and until the day of strife and war? 24: By what way is the light divided, and the east wind ariseth upon the earth? 25. Who hath given his course to the downpour, and the way to the thunder and lightning, 26. That it may rain upon the land where there is none, in the wilderness where there is no man, 27. To fill the waste places and the wilderness, and to make the grass grow? 28. Who is the father of the rain? Who has begotten the drops of dew? 29. Whose body did the ice come out of? And who hath begotten the frost under heaven? 30. That the waters may be hid as under stones, and the deep confess above? 31. Canst thou bind together the bands of the seven stars, or dissolve the band of Orion? 32. Canst thou bring forth the morning star in his season, or lead the chariot in the heavens above his children? 33. Thou knowest how to rule the heavens? Or can you master it on earth? 34. Can you bring "your" thunder high in the cloud? Or will the multitude of the water cover thee? 35. Canst thou send forth the lightnings, that they may go and speak? Here we are? 36. Who giveth wisdom in secret? Who gives understanding thoughts? 37. Who is so wise as to tell the clouds? Who can plug the water hoses in the sky, 38. When the dust is sprinkled, that it runs in heaps, and the dumplings stick together? (Job) Chapter 39 God's inscrutable wisdom shines forth in the animals. Job confesses his mistake, 39. Canst thou give the lioness her prey to hunt, and feed the young lions? 40. That they may lie down in their place, and rest in the cave where they lie in wait? 41. Who prepares food for the raven when its young call to God and fly astray when they have no food? Ch. 39. v. 1. Knowest thou the time when the chamois give birth upon the rocks? Or hast thou perceived when the deer conceive? 2. Hast thou told their moons, when they shall be full? Or knowest thou the time when they shall give birth? 3. They bow down when they give birth, and tear themselves, and let forth their young. 4. Their young ones wax fat, and multiply in the corn; and go out, and come not again unto them. 5. Who hath let the game go so free? Who has dissolved the bonds of the game? 6. To whom have I given the field for a house, and the wilderness for a dwelling? 7. It mocketh at the tumult of the city; it heareth not the throbbing of the driver. 8. He looketh toward the mountains for his pasture, and seeketh out the green places. 9. Thinkest thou that the unicorn shall serve thee, and abide at thy crib? 10. Canst thou bind thy yoke upon him, to make the furrows, that he may break behind thee in causes? 11. Wilt thou trust in it, that it is strong, and wilt it work for thee? 12. Wilt thou trust him to bring thy seed again, and to gather it into thy barn? 13. The feathers of the peacock are more beautiful than the wings and feathers of the stork, 14. Who letteth his eggs upon the earth, and letteth them hatch upon the hot earth. 15. He forgetteth that they may be trodden down, and that a wild beast may break them. 16. He is as hard against his young men as if they were not his, heedeth not that he laboureth in vain. 17. For God hath taken away wisdom from him, and hath not given him understanding. 18. At the time that he goeth up, he riseth up, and laugheth at both horse and man. 19. Canst thou give strength unto the horse, or adorn his neck with his cry? 20. canst thou frighten it as the locusts? That is the price of his nose, which is terrible. 21. It stampeth upon the ground, and is joyful with strength, and shouteth out against the armoured men. 22. It mocketh fear, and is not afraid, neither flinteth from the sword, 23. Though the quiver sound, and both the spear and the lance shine. 24. It trembled, and raged, and beat the earth, and hearkened not to the sound of the trumpets. 25. When the trumpet is almost sounded, it saith: Hoi! and smells the strife from afar, the shouting of princes and whooping. 26. Doth the hawk flee through thy mind, and spread his wings toward the south? 27. Doth the eagle, at thy command, fly so high as to make his nest on high? 28. He dwelleth in rocks, and abideth on the cliffs in rocks, and in strong places. 29. From thence he looketh after the meat, and his eyes look afar off. 30. His young ones drink blood; and where there is carrion, there he is. 31. And the LORD answered Job, and said: 32. If any one will dispute with the Almighty, shall he not teach him? And he that reproacheth God, shall he not answer for it? 33. And Job answered the LORD, and said: 34. Behold, I have been too light-hearted; what shall I answer? I will put my hand upon my mouth. 35. I have spoken once, therefore I will answer no more; hereafter I will do it no more. (Job) Chapter 40 Mirror of divine omnipotence on the Behemoth. 1. And the LORD answered Job out of a weather, and said: 2. Gird up thy loins like a man; I will ask thee, teach me. 3. Shall thou destroy my judgment, and condemn me, that thou mayest be just? 4. hast thou an arm like God, and canst thunder with like voice as he doth? 5. Adorn thyself with splendor, and exalt thyself; array thyself in praise and glory. 6. Cast out the wrath of thine anger; look upon the proud where they are; and humble them. 7. Yea, look upon the haughty where they are, and bend them, and make the wicked thin where they are. 8. Bury them together in the earth, and sink their splendor into hiding, 9. Then will I also confess unto thee, that thy right hand may help thee. 10. Behold, the behemoth which I have made beside thee eateth hay like an ox. 11. Behold, his strength is in his loins, and his ability in the navel of his belly. 12. his cock stretches like a cedar, the veins of his pubic stare like a branch. 13. His bones are as solid brass, his bones are as bars of iron. 14. He is the beginning of the ways of God: he that made him attacketh him with his sword. 15. The mountains bear him herbs, and all the wild beasts play there. 16. he likes to lie in the shade, hidden in the cane and in the mud. 17. The bush covereth him with his shadow, and the brook willows cover him. 18. Behold, he swalloweth up the river in himself, and regardeth it not: he thinketh that he will pour out Jordan with his mouth. 19. They sow him yet with his own eyes, and by snares they pierce his nose. (Job) Chapter 41 Description of Leviathan's greatness, power and strength. 20. Canst thou draw the leviathan with the urine, and catch his tongue with a rope? 21. can you put a fishing rod up his nose and pierce his bakken with a spike? 22. Thinkest thou that he will make thee much supplication, or pretend to thee? 23. Thinkest thou that he will make a covenant with thee, that thou shalt have him for a servant for ever? 24. Canst thou play with him as with a bird, or bind him to thy strumpets? 25. Thinkest thou that the companies will cut him up, that he may be divided among the merchants? 26. Canst thou fill the net with his skin, and the fish traps with his head? 27. When thou layest thine hand upon him, remember that there is a battle which thou wilt not perform. 28. Behold, his hope shall fail him; and when he seeth it, he shall be swallowed up. Ch. 41. v. 1. there is none so bold as may provoke him; who then is he that can stand before me? 2. Who hath done any thing unto me before, that I should requite him? Mine is that which is under the heavens. 3. Now therefore I must say how great, how mighty, and how well made he is. 4. who can uncover his dress? And who can dare to grab him between the teeth? 5. Who can open the jaws of his face? Terrible stand his teeth about. 6. his proud scales are like solid shields, firm and tight within each other. 7. One toucheth another, that there be not a breeze between them. 8. They cleave one to another, and cleave together, that they be not divided. 9. His sneezing shineth as the light; his eyes are as the eyelids of the dawn. 10. Out of his mouth go torches, and fiery sparks shoot out. 11. Out of his nostrils goeth smoke, as of hot pots and kettles. 12. His breath is as light, and out of his mouth go forth flames. 13. He hath a strong neck; and his delight is in spoiling. 14. The members of his flesh cleave one to another, and cleave hard unto him, that he should not fall to pieces. 15. His heart is as hard as a stone, and as firm as a piece of the lowest millstone. 16. When he ariseth, the mighty are dismayed: and when he breaketh away, there is no mercy. 17. If a man will come to him with a sword, he will not move: or with a spear, or with a bullet, or with a breastplate. 18. He esteemeth iron as straw, and brass as rotten wood. 19. No arrow shall drive him out: the sling stones are as stubble. 20. He esteemeth the hammer as stubble; he mocketh the quivering spear. 21. Sharp stones are under him, and he passeth over the sharp rocks as over dung. 22. He maketh the deep sea to boil like a pot, and stirreth it together, as one maketh an ointment. 23. after him the way shineth, he maketh the deep all gray. 24. There is none like him in the earth: he is made to be without fear. 25. He despiseth all that is high; he is a king over all the proud. (Job) Chapter 42 Job is made blissful again by God upon right repentance. 1. And Job answered the LORD, and said: 2. I know that thou art able to do all things, and no thought is hid from thee. 3. He is a rash man, which thinketh to hide his counsel. Therefore I confess that I have spoken unadvisedly, which is too high for me, and understand not. 4. Hear me then, let me speak; I will ask thee, teach me. 5. I have heard thee with mine ears; mine eye also now beholdeth thee. 6. I will repent and do penance in dust and ashes. 7. And when the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, he said unto Eliphaz of Theman, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken rightly of me, as my servant Job hath spoken. 8. Take therefore seven bullocks and seven rams, and go unto my servant Job, and offer burnt offerings for you, and let my servant Job pray for you. For I will look upon him, and not let you see how ye have done folly: for ye have not spoken rightly of me, as my servant Job hath spoken. 9. Then Eliphaz of Theman, and Bildad of Shuah, and Zophar of Naamah, went and did as the LORD had said unto them. And the LORD looked upon Job. 10. And the LORD turned the prison of Job, when he prayed for his friends. And the LORD gave unto Job two times as much as he had. 11. And all his brethren came unto him, and all his sisters, and all that knew him before, and did eat with him in his house, and bowed themselves to him, and comforted him for all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him. And every man gave him a goodly penny, and a golden headband. 12. And the LORD blessed Job more abundantly afterward than before: and he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand asses. 13. And he had seven sons and three daughters. 14. And the name of the first was Jemima, and the name of the second Kezia, and the name of the third Keren-hapuch. 15. And there were not found such fair damsels in all the earth as the daughters of Job. And their father gave them an inheritance among their brethren. 16. And Job lived after this an hundred and forty years, and saw children and children's children unto the fourth generation. 17. And Job died old and full of life. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Psalter (Psalms) ^ The 1st Psalm Doctrine of the blessedness of the pious and the punishment of the wicked. 1. Blessed is he that walketh not in the counsel of the wicked, nor treadeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of scoffers, 2. But hath delight in the law of the LORD, and speaketh of his law day and night. 3. He is like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; and his leaf fadeth not away; and whatsoever he doeth prospereth. 4. But such are not the wicked, but are as the chaff which the wind scattereth. 5. Therefore the wicked abide not in judgment, neither sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked perisheth. The 2nd Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ, the eternal king, his kingdom and its enemies 1. Why do the heathen rage, and the people speak so vainly? 2. The kings of the land rebelled, and the lords took counsel together against the LORD and his anointed: 3. Let us break their bands, and cast away their cords from us. 4. But he that dwelleth in heaven laugheth at them, and the LORD mocketh at them. 5. He shall speak unto them in his wrath, and with his fury shall he make them afraid. 6. But I have set my king upon my holy mountain Zion. 7. I will preach of such a manner, that the LORD hath said unto me: Thou art my son: this day have I begotten thee. 8. Cry unto me, and I will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the end of the world for thy possession. 9. Thou shalt smite them with an iron sceptre; as pots shalt thou break them. 10. Be ye therefore wise, O ye kings; and be ye chastened, ye judges of the earth. 11. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish in the way: for his wrath shall soon be kindled. But good to all who trust in him! The 3rd Psalm (^) Prayer and comfort of David against his persecutors. 1. A psalm of David, when he fled from Absalom his son. 2. O Lord, how many are mine enemies, and how many are set against me! 3. Many say of my soul: It has no help from God. Sela. 4. But thou, O LORD, art a shield unto me; and thou hast set me in honour, and lifted up my head. 5. I call upon the LORD with my voice, and he heareth me from his holy mountain. Sela. 6. I lie, and sleep, and awake: for the LORD keepeth me. 7. I am not afraid of many hundreds of thousands, which are laid up against me round about. 8. Arise, O LORD, and help me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies in the jaws, and hast broken the teeth of the wicked. 9. With the LORD shall be found help, and thy blessing upon thy people. Sela. The 4th Psalm (^) Comforting prayer against the vanity of the world's children. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung on strings. 2. Hear me when I cry, O God of my righteousness, who comfortest me in anguish; be gracious unto me, and hear my prayer. 3. Dear sirs, how long shall my honour be profaned? How you love the vain so well, and the lies so well! Sela. 4. Know ye that the LORD leadeth his saints in a strange way. The LORD heareth when I call upon him. 5. Be ye angry, sin not. Speak with your heart in your camp, and wait. Sela. 6. Sacrifice righteousness, and hope in the LORD. 7. Many say, How shall this man shew us what is good? But, O Lord, lift up the light of thy countenance upon us. 8. Thou hast made my heart glad, though they have much wine and corn. 9. I lie down and sleep in peace: for thou alone, O LORD, helpest me to dwell safely. The 5th Psalm (^) Prayer for the church against false teachers. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung for an inheritance. 2. Hear my words, O LORD; mark my speech. 3. Hear my cry, O king, and my God: for I will pray before thee. 4. O Lord, early wilt thou hear my voice; early will I send unto thee, and take heed. 5. For thou art not a god to whom wickedness pleaseth: he that is wicked abideth not before thee. 6. The glorifiers stand not before thine eyes: thou art hostile to all evildoers. 7. Thou destroyest liars: the LORD hath abhorred of the bloodthirsty and false. 8. And I will enter into thy house upon thy great goodness, and will worship against thy holy temple in thy fear. 9. O LORD, guide me in thy righteousness for mine enemies' sake; direct thy way before me. 10. For in their mouth there is no certainty; their inwardness is heartache; their mouth is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they make a pretence. 11. Blame them, O God, that they should fall from their nobleness. Cast them out for their great transgression; for they are rebellious against Thee. 12. Let all them that trust in thee rejoice: let them glory for ever: for thou shieldest them: let them that love thy name be glad in thee. 13. For thou, O LORD, blessest the righteous: thou crownest them with grace as with a shield. The 6th Psalm (^) Prayer of repentance for health of body and soul. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung on eight strings. 2. O LORD, punish me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy wrath. 3. Lord, have mercy upon me, for I am faint: heal me, O Lord, for my bones are troubled, 4. And my soul is greatly troubled. O Lord, how long! 5. Turn thee, O LORD, and save my soul: help me for thy goodness' sake. 6. For in death thou art not remembered: who shall thank thee in hell? 7. I am so weary with sighing, I wash my bed all night long, and with my tears I wet my bed. 8. My frame is fallen with grief, and is waxed old: for I am troubled in all places. 9. Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity: for the LORD hath heard my crying, 10. The LORD heareth my supplications; the LORD receiveth my prayer. 11. All mine enemies shall be put to shame, and be sore afraid, and turn back, and be put to shame suddenly. The 7th Psalm (^) Prayer for the salvation of the righteous cause. 1. The innocency of David, whereof he sang unto the LORD because of the words of the Moor the Jeminite. 2. In thee, O LORD, do I trust, O my God. Help me from all my persecutors and save me, 3. That they take not my soul like lions, and rend it, because there is no saviour. 4. O LORD my God, I have done these things, and there is iniquity in my hands; 5. I have done evil to them that lived peaceably with me, or have harmed them that were enemies unto me without a cause, 6. Then my enemy pursues my soul, and seizes it, and tramples my life to the ground, and lays my honor in the dust. Sela. 7. arise, O LORD, in thy wrath, rise up above the fury of mine enemies, and restore me to the office which thou hast commanded me, 8. That the people may be gathered unto thee again: and for their sakes come up again. 9. The LORD is judge of men. Judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness and godliness. 10. Put an end to the wickedness of the wicked, and promote the righteous: for thou, righteous God, testest hearts and kidneys. 11. My shield is with God, which helpeth the upright in heart. 12. God is a righteous judge, and a God that travaileth daily. 13. If any man will not be converted, he hath sharpened his sword, he hath bent his bow, he hath aimed it, 14. And hath laid upon it deadly shot: he hath made his arrows to perish. 15. Behold, he hath evil in his heart, he is with child in mischief; but he shall bring forth a defect. 16. He digged a pit, and carried it out, and fell into the pit which he made. 17. His calamity shall come upon his head, and his iniquity shall fall upon his crown. 18. I give thanks unto the LORD for his righteousness' sake, and will praise the name of the LORD Most High. The 8th Psalm (^) Of Christ's kingdom, suffering and glory. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung on the githith. 2. O Lord our sovereign, how glorious is thy name in all the earth, when they give thee thanks in heaven! 3. Thou hast put power into the mouth of the young children and sucklings for thine enemies' sake, to destroy the enemy and the revenger. 4. For I will see the heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou preparest. 5. What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the child of man, that thou art mindful of him? 6. you will let him be forsaken by God for a little while. But with honors and adornment you will crown him. 7. Thou wilt make him lord over the work of thy hands: thou hast put all things under his feet: 8. Sheep and bullocks at all, and wild beasts also, 9. The fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea, and the things that go in the sea. 10. O LORD our sovereign, how glorious is thy name in all lands! The 9th Psalm (^) Song of thanksgiving for obtained victory against the enemies. 1. a psalm of David of fair youth, to be sung. 2. I thank the LORD with all my heart, and tell all thy wonders. 3. I am glad and rejoice in thee, and praise thy name, O most high, 4. That thou hast driven mine enemies after thee: they are fallen and perished before thee. 5. For thou hast executed my judgment and my cause: thou sittest upon the throne a righteous judge. 6. Thou reproachest the heathen, and destroyest the wicked: thou destroyest their name for ever and ever. 7. The swords of the enemy are ended; thou hast turned back the cities; their memory is perished with them. 8. But the LORD abideth for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgment. 9. And he shall judge the earth righteously, and shall govern the people righteously. 10. And the LORD is the poor man's refuge, a refuge in trouble. 11. Therefore they that know thy name put their hope in thee: for they that seek thee, O LORD, trust not in thee. 12. Praise the LORD that dwelleth in Zion; declare his doings among the people. 13. For he remembereth and enquireeth after their blood: he forgetteth not the cry of the poor. 14. O Lord, have mercy upon me: behold my affliction among mine enemies, thou that liftest me up out of the gates of death, 15. That I may tell all thy praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion, that I may rejoice in thy salvation. 16. The heathen are sunk in the pit which they have made: their foot is caught in the net which they have made. 17. Thus it is known that the LORD worketh righteousness. The wicked is entangled in the work of his hands by the word. Sela. 18. Oh that the wicked should be turned into hell, all the heathen that forget God! 19. For he will not altogether forget the poor, neither will the hope of the needy be lost for ever. 20. Arise, O Lord, lest men prevail: let all the heathen be judged before thee. 21. Give them, O LORD, a Master, that the heathen may know that they are men. Sela. The 10th Psalm (^) Prayer against the enemies of the church. 1. O Lord, why art thou so far off, and hidest thyself in the time of trouble? 2. Because the wicked doeth wickedness, the wretched suffereth. They cling to each other and devise evil deeds. 3. For the wicked boasteth himself of his boldness, and the covetous blesseth himself, and blasphemeth the LORD. 4. The wicked is so proud and angry that he asks no man; in all his wickedness he thinks God is nothing. 5. He continueth in his doings for ever: thy judgments are far from him: he dealeth fiercely with all his enemies. 6. He saith in his heart, I shall never be laid low; there shall be no need for me for ever. 7. His mouth is full of cursing, of falsehood, and of deceit; his tongue worketh toil and trouble. 8. He sitteth and lieth in wait in the courts; he slayeth the innocent in secret; his eyes keep upon the poor. 9. He lieth in wait in secret, as a lion in the den: he lieth in wait to catch the wretch, and catcheth him in his net. 10. He breaketh and presseth down, and thrusteth to the ground the poor man with violence. 11. He saith in his heart, God hath forgotten; he hath hid his face, he shall never see it. 12. Arise, O LORD God, lift up thy hand; forget not the afflicted. 13. Why should the wicked blaspheme God, and say in his heart: You do not ask for it? 14. Thou seest, for thou beholdest the affliction and misery; it is in thy hands. The poor command thee: thou art the helper of the fatherless. 15. Break the arm of the wicked, and seek evil; and his wickedness shall never be found. 16. The LORD is king for ever and ever: the heathen must perish out of his land. 17. Thou hearest the desire of the afflicted, O LORD: their heart is sure that thine ear is attentive unto it, 18. That thou mayest do right to the fatherless and to the poor, that man should no more be inconvenienced in the earth. The 11th Psalm (^) Comfort against the enemy consists in right trust in God. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung. I trust in the LORD. How say ye then unto my soul, that it shall fly as a bird upon your mountains? 2. For, behold, the wicked draw the bow, and put their arrows in the string, to shoot the pious in secret. 3. For they pluck up the ground: what shall the righteous man do? 4. The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven: his eyes do behold, his eyelids do try the children of men. 5. The LORD trieth the righteous: his soul hateth the wicked, and them that love to transgress. 6. He shall rain upon the wicked lightning, and fire, and brimstone, and shall give them a weather for a reward. 7. The LORD is righteous, and loveth righteousness: therefore their faces look unto that which is right. The 12th Psalm (^) Prayer for the preservation of the little heap through God's Word. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung on eight strings. 2. Help, O Lord, the saints are diminished, and the faithful are few among the children of men. 3. One speaketh evil with another, and pretendeth, and teacheth out of a divided heart. 4. Let the LORD cut off all hypocrisy, and the tongue that speaketh proudly, 5. Who say, Let our tongue have the preeminence, and let us speak: who is our Lord? 6. Because the miserable are cast down, and the poor groan, I will arise, saith the LORD; and I will make a help to teach with confidence. 7. The word of the LORD is pure, as silver refined in an earthen vessel, proved seven times. 8. Thou, O LORD, wilt preserve them, and keep us from this generation for ever. 9. For it is filled with ungodly men everywhere, where such loose men rule among men. The 13th Psalm (^) Prayer in sadness and anguish of heart. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. O Lord, how long wilt thou forget me? How long wilt thou hide thy face from me? 3. How long shall I be troubled in my soul, and afraid in my heart daily? How long shall my enemy rise up against me? 4. Look upon me, O LORD my God, and hear me. Enlighten mine eyes, that I fall not asleep in death, 5. Lest mine enemy boast that he hath become mighty over me, and mine adversaries rejoice not that I am cast down. 6. But I hope that thou wilt be gracious: my heart rejoiceth that thou wilt help so gladly. I will sing unto the LORD, That he hath done so well for me. The 14th Psalm (^) Doctrine of the ruin of the human race and its help. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung. The foolish say in their heart, There is no God. They are good for nothing, and are an abomination with their nature. There is none that doeth good. 2. The LORD looketh from heaven on the children of men, to see if any man be wise, and asketh after God. 3. But they are all gone astray, and are all unfit: there is none that doeth good, not one. 4. Will not any of the transgressors know it, which devour my people, that they feed, but call not upon the LORD? 5. There they fear: but God is with the generation of the righteous. 6. Ye desecrate the poor man's counsel: but God is his confidence. 7. Oh that help would come upon Israel out of Zion, and that the LORD would deliver his captive people! Then Jacob shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad. The 15th Psalm (^) The doings of the faithful. 1. A psalm of David. O LORD, who shall dwell in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy mountain? 2. He that walketh without change, and doeth right, and speaketh the truth from the heart; 3. He that slandereth not with his tongue, neither doeth evil to his neighbour, nor reproacheth his neighbour; 4. He that esteemeth not the wicked, but honoureth the godly: he that sweareth unto his neighbour, and keepeth it; 5. He that giveth not his money usurpingly, and taketh not gifts above the innocent: he that doeth these things shall abide. The 16th Psalm Prophecy of Christ's passion and resurrection. 1. A golden jewel of David. Keep me, O God: for I trust in thee. 2. I said unto the LORD, Thou art the LORD; I must suffer for thy sake. 3. For the saints that are on the earth, and for the glorious ones: in them have I all my pleasure. 4. But they that go after another shall have great sorrow of heart. I will not sacrifice their libation with the blood, nor take their name in my mouth. 5. But the LORD is my goods and my portion: thou shalt receive my inheritance. 6. The lot is fallen unto me for a goodly thing: a goodly inheritance is become unto me. 7. I praise the LORD, which hath counseled me: my kidneys also chasten me at night. 8. I have the LORD always before me: for he is at my right hand, and I shall dwell. 9. Therefore my heart rejoiceth, and my glory is glad: my flesh also shall lie down in safety. 10. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, nor suffer thy saint to perish. 11. Thou hast made known unto me the way of life: before thee is fullness of joy, and gladness at thy right hand for ever. The 17th Psalm (^) Prayer for sound doctrine and holy living. 1. A prayer of David. Hear, O Lord, righteousness; hearken unto my cry; hear my prayer, which cometh not out of a false mouth. 2. speak thou in my cause, and look thou to the law! 3. Thou hast searched my heart, and visited it by night; thou hast purged me, and found nothing. I have purposed that my mouth should not transgress. 4. I keep myself in the word of thy lips from the works of man in the way of the murderer. 5. Keep my walk upon thy footsteps, that my treads slide not. 6. I cry unto thee, that thou, O God, mayest hear me: incline thine ear unto me, hear my speech. 7. Shew thy marvellous kindness, thou Saviour of them that trust in thee, against them that set themselves against thy right hand. 8. Keep me as the apple of thine eye in thine eye; shelter me under the shadow of thy wings. 9. from the wicked that trouble me, from mine enemies that stand round about after my soul. 10. Their fat ones hold together; they speak proudly with their mouth. 11. Whithersoever we go, they compass us about: their eyes do they direct, that they may bring us down to the earth, 12. As a lion that desireth a prey, as a young lion that sitteth in the den. 13. Arise, O LORD, overcome him, and humble him: deliver my soul from the wicked with thy sword, 14. Of the people of thy hand, O LORD, of the people of this world, which have their portion in their life, whom thou fillest with thy treasure, which children have the abundance of, and leave the rest unto their young. 15. But I will behold thy face in righteousness; I will be satisfied when I awake in thy image. The 18th Psalm (^) Song of thanksgiving for God's blessings. 1. A psalm to sing unto David the servant of the LORD, who spake the words of this song unto the LORD in the days when the LORD delivered him out of the hand of his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul, 2. And said, I love thee, O Lord, my strength, 3. O LORD, my rock, my fortress, my deliverer, my God, my stronghold, in whom I trust, the shield and horn of my salvation, and my refuge! 4. I will praise the LORD, and call upon him, and I shall be delivered from mine enemies. 5. For the bands of death compassed me about, and the rivers of Belial terrified me; 6. The bands of hell compassed me about, and the cords of death overwhelmed me. 7. When I am afraid, I call upon the LORD, and cry unto my God; and he heareth my voice from his temple, and my cry cometh before him in his ears. 8. The earth quaked and was moved, and the foundations of the mountains were moved and shook, because he was wroth. 9. Steam went up from his nostrils, and fire consumed from his mouth, and there was lightning therefrom. 10. He bowed the heavens, and descended, and darkness was under his feet. 11. And he rode upon the cherub, and flew along; he floated upon the wings of the wind. 12. His tent was dark round about him, and black thick clouds, wherein he was hid. 13. From the brightness before him the clouds parted with hail and lightning. 14. And the LORD thundered in heaven, and the most High let out his thunder with hail and lightning. 15. He shot forth his beams, and scattered them: he caused great lightning, and terrified them. 16. And there was a shower of water, and the ground was uncovered, O LORD, from thy rebuke, from the breath of thy nostrils, and from the snorting of thy nostrils. 17. He sent forth from on high, and took me, and drew me up out of great waters. 18. He delivered me from my strong enemies, from my haters that were too mighty for me, 19. Which prevailed against me in the day of my calamity: and the LORD was my confidence. 20. And he brought me forth into the room, and plucked me out: for he had a desire toward me. 21. The LORD hath dealt well with me according to my righteousness: he hath rewarded me according to the cleanness of my hands. 22. For I keep the ways of the LORD, and am not ungodly against my God. 23. For all his judgments I have before mine eyes, and his commandments I will not cast away, 24. But I am without change before him, and keep myself from sins. 25. Therefore the LORD rewardeth me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight. 26. With the saints thou art holy, and with the pious thou art pious. 27. And with the pure thou art pure, and with the perverse thou art perverse. 28. For thou helpest the wretched people, and bringest low the high eyes. 29. For thou shinest my light: the LORD my God maketh light my darkness. 30. For with thee I can smite warriors, and leap over the walls with my God. 31. God's ways are without change; the words of the LORD are purified. He is a shield to all who trust in Him. 32. For where is there a God without the LORD? or a refuge without our God? 33. God equips me with strength and makes my ways without change. 34. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me on my high place. 35. He hath taught my hand to fight, and my arm to draw a bow of brass. 36. And thou givest me the shield of thy salvation, and thy right hand strengtheneth me; and when thou humblest me, thou makest me great. 37. Thou makest room to walk under me, that my ankles slip not. 38. I will pursue after mine enemies, and seize them, and will not return until I have slain them. 39. I will break them in pieces, and they shall not withstand me; they must fall under my feet. 40. Thou canst arm me with strength to battle; thou canst cast under me them that set themselves against me: 41. Thou givest me mine enemies to flee, that I may destroy mine haters. 42. They cry, but there is no helper; to the LORD, but he answereth them not. 43. I will beat them as the dust before the wind; I will clear them away as the dung of the street. 44. Thou savest me from the contentious people, and makest me a chief among the heathen: a people that I knew not serve me. 45. It obeyeth me with obedient ears: yea, the strange children have sinned against me. 46. the foreign children languish and wriggle in their bonds: 47. The LORD liveth, and blessed be my stronghold; and let the God of my salvation be exalted, 48. The God that giveth me vengeance, and compelleth the nations under me, 49. Who delivereth me from mine enemies, and exalteth me from them that set themselves against me. Thou savest me from the wicked. 50. Therefore will I give thee thanks, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praise unto thy name, 51. Who hath shewed great salvation unto his king, and his anointed, David, and his seed for ever. The 19th Psalm (^) Doctrine of Christ, his word, and right repentance. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaimeth the work of his hands. 3. One day telleth another, and one night telleth another. 4. there is no speech nor language, since one does not hear their voice. 5. Their cord goeth forth into all the earth, and their speech unto the end of the world: he hath made a tabernacle for the sun in them. 6. And the same goeth forth as a bridegroom out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a hero to run the way. 7. It ariseth at one end of heaven, and returneth unto the same end; and nothing is hid from the heat thereof. 8. The law of the LORD is without change, and restoreth the soul. The testimony of the LORD is sure, and maketh wise the foolish. 9. The commands of the LORD are right and gladden the heart. The commandments of the LORD are loud and enlighten the eyes. 10. The fear of the LORD is pure, and abideth for ever. The judgments of the LORD are true, all righteous. 11. They are more precious than gold, and much fine gold; they are sweeter than honey and honeycomb. 12. Also thy servant shall be remembered by them: and he that keepeth them hath great reward. 13. Who can tell how often he faileth? Forgive me the hidden faults! 14. Keep also thy servant from the proud, that they rule not over me: then shall I be without change, and blameless in great iniquity. 15. Let the words of my mouth and the conversation of my heart be acceptable unto thee, O LORD, my refuge and my redeemer. The 20th Psalm (^) Prayer of the subjects for their authorities. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. The LORD hear thee in thy trouble: the name of the God of Jacob save thee. 3. Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion. 4. He shall remember all thy meat offering, and thy burnt offering shall be fat. Sela. 5. He shall give thee that which thine heart desireth, and shall fulfil all thy purposes. 6. We boast that thou wilt help us; and in the name of our God we lift up our banners. The LORD grant thee all thy petition! 7. Now I perceive that the LORD helpeth his anointed, and heareth him in his holy heaven: his right hand helpeth mightily. 8. They rely upon chariots and horses: but we remember the name of the LORD our God. 9. They are cast down and fallen: but we stand upright. 10. Help, O Lord! May the King hear us when we call! The 21st Psalm (^) Christ's victory against the enemy. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. O LORD, the king rejoiceth in thy strength; and how glad is he in thy help! 3. Thou givest him his heart's desire, and refuseest not what his mouth asketh. Sela. 4. For thou hast showered good blessings upon him; thou hast set a crown of gold upon his head. 5. He asketh thee for life, and thou givest him long life for ever and ever. 6. He hath great honour in thy help: thou layest up praise and ornament upon him. 7. For thou hast set him for a blessing for ever: thou hast made him to rejoice in thy countenance. 8. For the king hopeth in the LORD, and shall stand fast by the goodness of the most High. 9. Thine hand shall find all thine enemies: thy right hand shall find them that hate thee. 10. Thou shalt make them as a furnace of fire, when thou shalt look therein: the LORD shall devour them in his wrath. Fire shall devour them. 11. Their fruit shalt thou destroy from off the face of the earth, and their seed from among the children of men. 12. For they thought to do thee evil, and made designs which they could not perform. 13. For thou shalt make her a shoulder; with thy sinew thou shalt aim at her face. 14. Arise, O Lord, in thy strength, and let us sing and praise thy might. The 22nd Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ's suffering and glory. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung by the hind that is hunted early. 2. O my God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? I cry, but my help is far off. 3. O my God, I call in the day, and thou answerest not; neither am I silent in the night. 4. But thou art holy, who dwellest under the praise of Israel. 5. Our fathers hoped in thee, and when they hoped, thou helpedst them out. 6. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they hoped in thee, and were not put to shame. 7. But I am a worm, and no man; a scorn of men, and contempt of the people. 8. All they that see me mock me, and open their mouths, and shake their heads. 9. Let him complain unto the LORD, and he shall save him, and deliver him, if he have a desire toward him. 10. For thou hast drawn me out of my mother's womb: thou wast my confidence, when I was yet in my mother's breasts. 11. Unto thee am I cast from my mother's womb: thou art my God from my mother's womb. 12. Be not far from me, for fear is near: for there is no helper here. 13. Great bullocks have compassed me about, fat oxen have compassed me about; 14. They have opened their mouth against me like a roaring and ravening lion. 15. I am poured out like water; all my bones are broken in pieces; my heart is melted in my flesh like wax. 16. My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue cleaveth to the roof of my mouth; and thou layest me in the dust of death. 17. For dogs have compassed me about, and the wicked have made themselves round about me; they have pierced my hands and my feet. 18. I want to count all my legs. But you look and see their lust for me. 19. They divide my garments among them, and cast lots for my vesture. 20. But thou, O Lord, be not far off; my strength, make haste to help me. 21. Deliver my soul from the sword, my lonely from the dogs! 22. Help me out of the lion's mouth, and deliver me from the unicorns. 23. I will preach thy name unto my brethren, I will praise thee in the congregation. 24. Glorify the LORD, ye that fear him: let all the seed of Jacob glory in him, and let all the seed of Israel be afraid of him. 25. For he despised not the affliction of the poor, neither spurned it, nor hid his face from him: and when he cried unto him, he heard it. 26. Thee will I praise in the great congregation; I will pay my vows before them that fear him. 27. The miserable shall eat, and be filled: and they that inquire of the LORD shall praise him: your heart shall live for ever. 28. Let the end of the world be remembered, that they should turn unto the LORD, and worship before him all kindreds of the Gentiles. 29. For the LORD hath a kingdom, and he reigneth among the heathen. 30. All the fat of the earth shall eat and worship: before him shall all that lie in the dust bow the knee, and they that live in want. 31. He shall have a seed to minister unto him: they shall proclaim of the LORD unto the children of children. 32. And they shall come and preach his righteousness unto the people that are born, that he may do it. The 23rd Psalm (^) Christ our good shepherd. 1. A psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures, and leadeth me beside the still waters. 3. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4. Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. 5. Thou preparest a table before me against mine enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil, and pourest me out to the full. 6. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. The 24th Psalm (^) From Christo, the King of Honour 1. A psalm of David. The earth is the LORD'S, and the things that are therein; the ground, and the things that dwell therein. 2. For he hath founded it upon the seas, and prepared it by the waters. 3. Who shall go up into the mount of the LORD? and who shall stand in his holy place? 4. He that hath innocent hands, and is pure in heart; who hath no pleasure in loose doctrine, and sweareth not falsely. 5. He shall receive blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the GOD of his salvation. 6. This is the generation that seeketh after him, which seeketh thy face, O Jacob. Sela. 7. Open wide the gates, and lift up the doors of the world, that the King of glory may come in. 8. Who is the same king of glory? It is the LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 9. Open wide the gates, and lift up the doors of the world, that the King of glory may come in. 10. Who is this same king of glory? It is the LORD of hosts; he is the king of honours. Sela. The 25th Psalm (^) Prayer for God's government, grace and protection. 1. A psalm of David. I long for thee, O Lord. 2. My God, I hope in thee. Let me not be put to shame, lest mine enemies rejoice over me. 3. For no man shall be put to shame that waiteth for thee: but they shall be put to shame that are scornful. 4. O Lord, shew me thy ways, and teach me thy paths. 5. Guide me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God that helpeth me: daily I wait for thee. 6. Remember, O LORD, thy mercy, and thy lovingkindness, which was from the world. 7. Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgression: but remember me according to thy mercy, for thy lovingkindness' sake. 8. The LORD is good and upright; therefore he teacheth sinners in the way. 9. He leadeth the wretched aright, and teacheth the miserable his way. 10. The ways of the LORD are goodness and truth to them that keep his covenant and his testimony. 11. For thy name's sake, O LORD, be merciful to my iniquity, which is great. 12. Who is he that feareth the LORD? He shall instruct him in the best way. 13. His soul shall dwell in goodness, and his seed shall possess the land. 14. The secret of the LORD is among them that fear him, and his covenant he maketh them to know. 15. Mine eyes look always unto the LORD: for he shall draw my foot out of the net. 16. Turn thee unto me, and be gracious unto me: for I am lonely and wretched. 17. the anguish of my heart is great; lead me out of my troubles! 18. Behold my affliction and misery, and forgive me all my sin. 19. Behold, mine enemies are many, and they hate me for iniquity. 20. Preserve my soul, and deliver me: let me not be put to shame: for I trust in thee. 21. Wicked and right, that keep me: for I wait for thee. 22. God, deliver Israel from all, its distress! The 26th Psalm (^) Prayer for the salvation of innocence 1. a psalm of David. O Lord, do me justice, for I am innocent. I hope in the LORD, therefore I shall not fall. 2. Try me, O LORD, and try me; purify my kidneys and my heart. 3. For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes, and I walk in thy truth. 4. I sit not with vain men, neither have I fellowship with the wrong. 5. I hate the assembly of the wicked, and sit not with the wicked. 6. I wash my hands in innocency, and hold myself, O LORD, to thine altar, 7. When the voice of thanksgiving is heard, and when all thy wonders are preached. 8. O LORD, I love the place of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth. 9. Lay not down my soul with sinners, nor my life with the bloodthirsty, 10. Which deal with evil wiles and gladly take gifts. 11. But I walk innocently. Deliver me and have mercy on me! 12. My foot goeth right. I will praise thee, O Lord, in the assemblies. The 27th Psalm (^) Comfort and delight in God and His Word. 1. A psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation: of whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2. Therefore if the wicked, mine adversaries and mine enemies, desire to devour my flesh, they shall run and fall. 3. Though an army be arrayed against me, yet my heart feareth not: though war arise against me, yet will I rely upon him. 4. One thing I desire of the Lord, that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the good works of the Lord, and to visit his temple. 5. For he covereth me in his tabernacle in the evil time; he hideth me secretly in his tent, and exalteth me upon a rock; 6. And now shall I lift up my head above mine enemies that are round about me: and I will offer praise in his tabernacle, I will sing and sing praise unto the LORD. 7. O LORD, hear my voice when I call: be gracious unto me, and hear me. 8. My heart setteth before thee thy word, Ye shall seek my face. Therefore I also, O Lord, seek thy face. 9. Hide not thy face from me, and cast not thy servant out in anger: for thou art my help. Leave me not, and turn not thine hand from me, O GOD, my salvation! 10. For my father and my mother forsake me: but the LORD receiveth me. 11. O LORD, shew me thy way, and lead me in the paths of righteousness for mine enemies' sakes. 12. Give me not into the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses stand against me, and do me wrong without fear. 13. But I believe that I shall see the good of the LORD in the land of the living. 14. wait upon the LORD. Be of good courage, and of good courage, and wait upon the LORD. The 28th Psalm Prayer against the wrong people 1. A psalm of David. When I cry unto thee, O LORD my refuge, be not silent unto me; lest, when thou art silent, I be like them that go down to hell. 2. Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands unto thy holy choir. 3. Show me not among the wicked, and among the workers of iniquity, which speak kindly to their neighbour, and have evil in their heart. 4. Give unto them according to their deeds, and according to their wickedness; give unto them according to the works of their hands; recompense them according to their deserts. 5. For they will not hearken unto the works of the LORD, nor unto the works of his hands: therefore will he break them down, and not build them. 6. Blessed be the LORD: for he hath heard the voice of my supplications. 7. The LORD is my strength and my shield: in him my heart hopeth, and I am saved; and my heart is glad, and I will give thanks unto him with my song. 8. The LORD is their strength; he is the strength that helpeth his anointed. 9. Help thy people, and bless thine inheritance; and feed them, and exalt them for ever. The 29th Psalm (^) From the thunder of divine word. 1. A psalm of David. Bring unto the LORD, ye mighty ones, bring unto the LORD glory and strength. 2. Bring glory to the LORD for his name; worship the LORD in holy habiliments. 3. The voice of the LORD goeth upon the waters: the God of glory thundereth, the LORD upon great waters. 4. The voice of the LORD goeth with power: the voice of the LORD goeth gloriously. 5. The voice of the LORD breaketh the cedars: the LORD breaketh the cedars in Lebanon. 6. And make them lick like a calf, Lebanon and Sirion like a young unicorn. 7. The voice of the LORD is as flames of fire. 8. The voice of the LORD stirreth up the wilderness: the voice of the LORD stirreth up the wilderness of Kadesh. 9. The voice of the LORD stirreth up the hinds, and uncovereth the forests. And in his temple shall all men give him glory. 10. The LORD sitteth to bring a flood. And the LORD remaineth a king for ever. 11. The LORD shall give strength unto his people: the LORD shall bless his people with peace. The 30th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's goodness in cross and tribulation. 1. A psalm to sing of the dedication of the house of David. 2. I praise thee, O LORD; for thou hast exalted me, and hast not caused mine enemies to rejoice over me. 3. O LORD my God, when I cried unto thee, thou restoredst me. 4. O LORD, thou hast brought my soul out of hell: thou hast kept me alive while they went into hell. 5. All ye saints, sing praises unto the LORD; give thanks, and praise his holiness. 6. For his anger endureth for a moment, and he delighteth to live: weeping endureth for the evening, but joy in the morning. 7. And I said, when I was well: I shall never more lie down. 8. For, O LORD, by thy good pleasure thou hast made my mountain strong. But when thou hidest thy face, I was afraid. 9. I will cry unto thee, O LORD: unto the LORD will I pray. 10. What profit is there in my blood, if I be dead? Will the dust also thank thee, and proclaim thy faithfulness? 11. Hear, O Lord, and be gracious unto me: O Lord, be my helper. 12. Thou hast turned my lamentation into a dance: thou hast taken off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness, 13. That my glory may sing unto thee, and not be still. O LORD my God, I will give thee thanks for ever. The 31st Psalm (^) Hope makes no one lose heart in adversity. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust. Let me never be put to shame; save me through your righteousness. 3. Incline thine ears unto me; hasten thou to help me. Be thou a strong rock and a fortress unto me, that thou mayest help me. 4. For thou art my rock and my fortress, and for thy name's sake thou wilt guide and lead me. 5. Thou wilt pull me out of the net which they have set for me: for thou art my strength. 6. Into thy hands I commend my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD, thou faithful God. 7. I hate them that hold fast loose doctrine: but I hope in the LORD. 8. I am glad and rejoice in thy lovingkindness, because thou lookest upon my affliction, and knowest my soul in trouble. 9. and deliverest me not into the hands of the enemy: thou settest my feet upon a broad place. 10. O Lord, have mercy upon me: for I am afraid: my frame is gone down with grief, and my soul, and my belly. 11. For my life is consumed with sorrow, and my days with sighing; my strength is consumed with mine iniquity, and my bones are fainted. 12. I am so wicked, that I am a great reproach to my neighbours, and an abhorrence to my kinsmen: they that see me in the street flee from me. 13. Mine is forgotten in the heart as of a dead man; I am become as a broken vessel. 14. For many reproach me, that all men are afraid of me: they counsel together against me, and think to take away my life. 15. But I, O LORD, hope in thee, and say, Thou art my God. 16. My time is in thy hands. Deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me. 17. Let thy face shine upon thy servant: help me by thy lovingkindness. 18. O LORD, let me not be put to shame: for I call upon thee. The wicked shall be ashamed, and shall be ashamed in hell. 19. Let false mouths be put to silence, which speak against the righteous, stiffly, proudly, and scornfully. 20. How great is thy lovingkindness, which thou hast hid from them that fear thee, and hast shewed to them that trust in thee before men. 21. Thou hidest them secretly in thine own house from every man's defiance: thou hidest them in the tabernacle from the brawling tongues. 22. Praise be unto the LORD, that he hath shewed me a marvellous kindness in a strong city. 23. For I said in my anguish, I am cast out of thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications, when I cried unto thee. 24. Love the LORD, all ye his saints. The LORD keepeth the faithful, and rewardeth him that is proud. 25. Be of good cheer and of good courage, all ye that wait upon the LORD. The 32nd Psalm (^) Of Justification. 1. An instruction of David. Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2. Blessed is the man to whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, in whose spirit there is no deceit. 3. For when I would have concealed it, my bones waxed feeble with my daily weeping. 4. For thy hand was heavy upon me day and night, that my sap was dried up, as it is withered in summer. Sela. 5. Therefore I confess my sin unto thee, and hide not my iniquity. I said: I will confess my transgression unto the LORD. Then forgavest thou me the iniquity of my sin. Sela. 6. For this shall all the saints pray thee in due time: therefore when great floods of waters come, they shall not reach the same. 7. Thou art my shield: thou wilt keep me from fear, that I may be saved, and may boast most gladly. Sela. 8. I will instruct thee, and show thee the way which thou shalt walk in: I will guide thee with mine eyes. 9. Be not as horses, and as mouths that have no understanding, which must be bridled and bitted in their mouths, if they will not come unto thee. 10. The wicked hath much trouble: but he that hopeth in the LORD, goodness shall compass him about. 11. Rejoice in the LORD, and be glad, ye righteous: and boast, all ye godly. The 33rd Psalm (^) Our heart's delight is in praising the benefits of God. 1. Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous. Let the righteous praise him beautifully. 2. Give thanks unto the LORD with harps, and sing praises unto him upon the psaltery of ten strings. 3. Sing unto him a new song; make it good on strings with sound. 4. For the word of the LORD is true, and what he saith he keepeth. 5. He loveth righteousness and judgment. The earth is full of the goodness of the LORD. 6. The heavens were made by the word of the LORD, and all his host by the spirit of his mouth. 7. he holds the waters of the sea together as in a hose, and puts the depths in hiding. 8. Let all the earth fear the LORD, and let all that dwell upon the face of the earth be afraid of him. 9. For he speaketh, and it is done; and he giveth, and it is written. 10. The LORD destroyeth the counsel of the heathen, and turneth back the thoughts of the nations. 11. But the counsel of the LORD endureth for ever, the thoughts of his heart for ever. 12. Blessed are the people, whom the LORD is a God, the people whom he hath chosen for an inheritance. 13. The LORD looketh down from heaven, and seeth the children of all men. 14. From his high throne he looketh upon all them that dwell on the earth. 15. He directeth the heart of them all; he marketh all their works. 16. A king is not saved by his great power; a giant is not saved by his great strength; 17. Neither do horses help, neither doth their great strength deliver. 18. Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, that hope in his mercy, 19. That he might save their souls from death, and feed them in affliction. 20. Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield. 21. For our heart rejoiceth in him, and we trust in his holy name. 22. Thy lovingkindness, O LORD, be upon us, as we hope in thee. The 34th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's kindness. 1. A psalm of David, when he hid his countenance from Abimelech, who drove him from himself, and he departed. 2. I will praise the LORD alway: his praise shall be in my mouth for ever. 3. Let my soul glory in the LORD, that the wretched may hear and rejoice. 4. Praise the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. 5. When I sought the LORD, he answered me, and delivered me out of all my fear. 6. Whosoever looketh on him, and runneth upon him, his face shall not be ashamed. 7. When this wretch cried out, the LORD hearkened, and saved him out of all his troubles. 8. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. 9. Taste and see how good the LORD is. Blessed is he that trusteth in him! 10. Fear the LORD, ye his saints: for they that fear him have no lack. 11. The rich have need and hunger: but they that seek the LORD have no lack of any thing. 12. Come hither, children, and hear me. I will teach you the fear of the Lord. 13. Who is he that desireth good living, and would fain have good days? 14. Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking falsely. 15. Forsake evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. 16. The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears upon their cry. 17. But the face of the LORD is upon them that do evil, to cut off their remembrance from the earth. 18. When the righteous cry, the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their affliction. 19. The LORD is near unto them that are of a broken heart, and helpeth them that are of a contrite spirit. 20. The righteous suffereth much: but the LORD helpeth him out of all these things. 21. He keepeth all his bones, that not one of them be broken. 22. Adversity shall slay the wicked, and they that hate the righteous shall be iniquitous. 23. The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and all they that trust in him shall have no blame. The 35th Psalm (^) Prayer for deliverance from the cruelty of the enemy. 1. a psalm of David. O Lord, contend with my disputers; fight against my champions. 2. seize the shield and weapons and set out to help me! 3. Draw the spear, and defend me against my persecutors. Say unto my soul, I am thy help. 4. They that seek my soul shall be ashamed and confounded; and they that seek me shall return and be confounded. 5. They shall be as chaff before the wind, and the angel of the LORD shall cast them out. 6. Let their way be dark and slippery, and let the angel of the LORD pursue them. 7. For without cause they have set their nets to destroy me, and without cause they have made pits for my soul. 8. He shall be taken unawares, and his net that he hath set shall take him, and be taken within. 9. But let my soul rejoice in the LORD, and be glad in his help. 10. All my bones shall say, Lord, who is like unto thee? Thou that savest the wretch from him that is too strong for him, and the poor and needy from his robbers. 11. Freve witnesses arise, which accuse me that I am not guilty. 12. They do me evil for good, to bring me to grief of heart. 13. And I, when they were sick, put on sackcloth, and hurt myself with fasting, and prayed always with my heart. 14. I held myself as if it were my friend and my brother; I walked sadly as one that mourneth for his mother. 15. But they rejoice in mine iniquity, and are cut off: the limpers are cut off against me without my fault: they tear, and cease not. 16. With them that feign and mock for the belly's sake, they gnash their teeth at me. 17. O Lord, how long wilt thou watch? deliver my soul from their tumult, and my lonely from the young lions. 18. I will give thee thanks in the great congregation; and among many people will I praise thee. 19. Let not them rejoice over me that are unreasonably hostile unto me, neither let them scoff with their eyes that hate me without a cause. 20. For they seek to do harm, and seek false things against the quiet ones of the land; 21. And they open their mouths wide against me, and say: There, there, we are glad to see it. 22. O LORD, thou seest, be not silent: O LORD, be not far from me. 23. Awake, and awake to my right and to my cause, my God and my Lord! 24. O LORD my God, judge me according to thy righteousness, that they rejoice not over me. 25. Let them not say in their heart, There, there, we would. Let them not say: We have devoured him. 26. They shall be ashamed and put to shame, all they that rejoice in mine iniquity: they shall be clothed with shame and dishonour that boast against me. 27. Let them boast and rejoice that grant me to be right, saying always, Let the Lord be highly praised. Praise be to the LORD, who wills his servant well! 28. And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness, and praise thee daily. The 36th Psalm (^) Prayer and complaint against the godless hypocrites. 1. To sing a psalm of David the servant of the LORD. 2. It is spoken of the wicked from the bottom of my heart, that there is no fear of God in them. 3. they adorn themselves among themselves, that they may promote their evil cause, and revile others. 4. All their doctrine is pernicious and false: neither can they be taught that they do good, 5. But they seek to do harm in their camp, and stand fast in the evil way, and spare no evil. 6. O LORD, thy lovingkindness reacheth unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. 7. Thy righteousness standeth as the mountains of God, and thy judgment as the great deep. O LORD, thou helpest both man and beast. 8. How precious is thy lovingkindness, O God, that the children of men should trust under the shadow of thy wings! 9. They shall be of the riches of thy house, and thou shalt water them with lust as with a river. 10. For with thee is the living fountain, and in thy light we see the light. 11. Spread thy lovingkindness over them that know thee, and thy righteousness over the upright. 12. Let not the proud tread me down, neither let the hand of the wicked overthrow me, 13. But let them that do evil fall there, that they may be cast out, and not remain. The 37th Psalm (^) To shun the vexation of the wicked fortune. 1. a psalm of David. Be not angry with the wicked; be not envious of the transgressors. 2. For as the grass they shall soon be cut down, and as the green herb they shall wither. 3. Hope in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed thyself honestly. 4. Delight thyself in the LORD: he shall give thee that which thy heart desireth. 5. Commend thy ways unto the LORD, and hope in him: he will do it well. 6. And shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. 7. Be still unto the LORD, and wait for him. Be not angry with him to whom his will is happily gone. 8. Depart from wrath, and leave off anger: be not wroth, that thou do evil. 9. For the wicked shall be cut off: but they that wait upon the LORD shall inherit the earth. 10. It is yet for a little, that the wicked is no more: and when thou shalt look for his place, he shall be gone. 11. But the wretched shall inherit the land, and have pleasure in great peace. 12. The wicked dreadeth the righteous, and gnasheth his teeth at him. 13. But the LORD laugheth at him: for he seeth that his day cometh. 14. The wicked draw out their sword, and draw their bow, to cut down the wretched and the poor, and to slay the upright. 15. But her sword shall enter into her heart, and her bow shall break. 16. The little that a righteous man hath is better than the great possessions of many wicked men. 17. For the arm of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous. 18. The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their substance shall be for ever. 19. They shall not be put to shame in the evil time, and in the tribulation they shall have enough. 20. For the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD, though they be as the pleasant pastures, yet shall they perish as the smoke. 21. The wicked borroweth, and payeth not: but the righteous is merciful and mild. 22. For his blessed shall inherit the land; but his cursed shall be cut off. 23. By the LORD is such a man's walk advanced, and he delighteth in his way. 24. If it fall, it is not cast away: for the LORD keepeth it in his hand. 25. I have been young, and have waxed old, and have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed go after bread. 26. He is ever merciful, and lendeth willingly: and his seed shall be blessed. 27. Forsake evil, and do good, and abide for ever. 28. For the LORD loveth righteousness, and forsaketh not his saints: they shall be preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off. 29. The righteous inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever. 30. The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue teacheth judgment. 31. the law of his God is in his heart, his footsteps do not slide. 32. The wicked lieth in wait for the righteous, and intendeth to slay him. 33. But the LORD will not leave him in his hands, nor condemn him when he is condemned. 34. Wait upon the LORD, and keep his way; and he shall exalt thee, and thou shalt inherit the land: thou shalt see the wicked cut off. 35. I have seen an ungodly man defiant, and spreading himself abroad, and green as a laurel tree. 36. And as one passed by, behold, he was gone; and I inquired for him, and he was nowhere to be found. 37. Remain pious, and keep thyself right: for such a one shall prosper in the end. 38. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together, and the wicked shall be cut off at the last. 39. But the LORD helpeth the righteous: he is their strength in trouble. 40. And the LORD shall stand by them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them: for they trust in him. The 38th Psalm (^) Prayer of repentance for release from the heavy burden of sin 1. a psalm of David in remembrance. 2. O LORD, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy wrath. 3. For thine arrows are in me, and thy hand is upon me. 4. There is no soundness in my flesh from thy wrath, neither is there peace in my bones from mine iniquity. 5. For my sins are upon my head, as a heavy burden they have become too heavy for me. 6. My wounds stink and fester from my folly. 7. I walk crookedly, and very stooping: all the day long I walk sadly. 8. For all my loins are withered: there is no soundness in my body. 9. It is very different with me, and I am very sore troubled. I howl with the unrest of my heart. 10. O LORD, all my desire is before thee, and my groaning is not hid from thee. 11. My heart is troubled, my strength is gone out of me, and the light of my eyes is not with me. 12. My beloved and my friends stand against me, and shun my plague; and my neighbours stand afar off. 13. And they that are after my soul oppose me: and they that mean me harm speak as they mean to do harm, and deal in vanity. 14. But I am as a deaf man, and hear not; and as a dumb man, which openeth not his mouth. 15. And he shall be as one that heareth not, and hath no gainsaying in his mouth. 16. But I wait, O LORD, upon thee: thou, O LORD my God, wilt hear. 17. For I think that they will not rejoice over me. If my foot were shaken, they would glory in me. 18. For I am made to suffer, and my pain is always before me. 19. For I acknowledge my iniquity, and make provision for my sin. 20. But mine enemies live, and are mighty: they that hate me unreasonably are great. 21. And they that do me evil for good set themselves against me, because I hold fast that which is good. 22. Forsake me not, O LORD my God: be not thou far from me. Make haste to help me, O Lord, my help! The 39th Psalm (^) Prayer for the right art of dying as a certain remedy against vexation. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung for Jeduthun. 2. I have purposed myself, I will take heed lest I sin with my tongue. I will bridle my mouth, because I see the wicked before me. 3. I am dumb and silent, and keep silence of joys, and eat my sorrows within me. 4. My heart is kindled in my flesh, and when I remember it, I am kindled; I speak with my tongue. 5. But teach me, O Lord, that there must be an end to me, and that my life must have an end, and that I must depart from it. 6. Behold, my days are a handbreadth unto thee, and my life is as nothing before thee. How nothing are all men, who yet live so securely! Sela. 7. They go therefore as a shadow, and make them much vain trouble; they gather, and know not who shall get it. 8. Now, O Lord, what shall I comfort myself with? I hope in thee. 9. Cleanse me from all my sin, and let me not be a mockery to fools. 10. I will hold my peace, and will not open my mouth: thou shalt do it well. 11. Turn away thy plague from me: for I am faint at the punishment of thine hand. 12. If thou chasten a man for sin, his beauty shall be devoured as by moths. Alas, how nothing are all men! Sela. 13. Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear to my cry, and be not silent over my tears: for I am both thy pilgrim and thy citizen, as are all my fathers. 14. Depart from me, that I may rest before I go, and be no more here. The 40th Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ, his suffering and his prophetic office: 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. I waited upon the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. 3. And he drew me out of the dreadful pit, and out of the mire, and set my feet upon a rock, that I might surely tread; 4. And hath put a new song in my mouth, to praise our God. Many shall see it, and fear the LORD, and hope in him. 5. Blessed is he that putteth his hope in the LORD, and turneth not to the proud, and to them that deal in lies. 6. O LORD my God, great are thy wonders, and thy thoughts, which thou hast done for us. Nothing is like unto thee. I will declare them, and tell of them, though they be not to be numbered. 7. Sacrifices and meat offerings are not acceptable unto thee: but thou hast opened mine ears. Thou wilt not have burnt offerings, nor sin offerings. 8. And I said, Behold, I come; in the book it is written of me. 9. Thy will, O my God, will I gladly do; and thy law have I in mine heart. 10. I will preach righteousness in the great congregation: behold, I will not let my mouth be stopped, O Lord, thou knowest. 11. Thy righteousness will I not hide in mine heart: of thy truth and of thy salvation will I speak; I will not hide thy lovingkindness and thy faithfulness from the great congregation. 12. But thou, O LORD, wilt not turn away thy mercy from me: let thy lovingkindness and thy faithfulness keep me always. 13. For sorrows have compassed me about without number; my sins have taken hold of me, that I cannot see; theirs is more than the hair of my head, and my heart hath failed me. 14. Be pleased, O LORD, to save me: make haste, O LORD, to help me. 15. They shall be ashamed and confounded that seek my soul, that they may destroy them: they shall fall back, and be confounded that do me wrong. 16. They shall be afraid in their shame, which cry over me: There, there! 17. Let all them that seek thee rejoice and be glad; and let them that love thy salvation say alway, Blessed be the LORD. 18. For I am poor and wretched: but the LORD taketh care of me. Thou art my helper and my deliverer: my God, consume not. The 41st Psalm (^) Of charity and infidelity. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. Blessed is he that taketh care of the needy. The LORD will save him in the evil time. 3. The LORD shall preserve him, and keep him alive, and make him prosperous in the earth, and shall not give him into the will of his enemies. 4. The LORD shall refresh him in his bed of death: thou shalt save him from all his sickness. 5. And I said, Lord, be merciful unto me, and heal my soul: for I have sinned against thee. 6. Mine enemies speak evil against me, saying, When shall he die, and his name perish? 7. They come to look, and yet mean not in their heart, but seek something that they may blaspheme, and go and bear it. 8. All they that hate me murmur together against me, and think evil of me. 9. you have decided a knavery on me: If he lies, he shall not rise again! 10. My friend also, in whom I trusted, which did eat my bread, treadeth me under foot. 11. But thou, O LORD, be gracious unto me, and help me up, and I will pay them. 12. By this I know that thou delightest in me, that mine enemy shall not exult over me. 13. But thou hast preserved me for my righteousness' sake, and hast set me before thy face for ever. 14. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from henceforth even for ever. Amen, amen. The 42nd Psalm (^) Misery and comfort of the persecuted. 1. an instruction of the children of Korah to sing aloud. 2. As the hart crieth for fresh water, so crieth my soul, O GOD, unto thee. 3. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When will I come to see the face of God? 4. My tears are my meat day and night, because they say unto me daily, Where is now thy God? 5. And when I consider it, I pour out my heart unto myself: for I would go with the multitude, and walk with them in the house of God, rejoicing and giving thanks among the multitude that feast. 6. Why art thou grieved, O my soul, and art troubled within me? Wait upon God; for I will yet thank him, that he will help me with his countenance. 7. O my God, my soul is grieved within me: therefore I remember thee in the land of Jordan and Hermonim, in the little mountain. 8. Thy floods roar, and thy depths roar: all thy waves and thy billows pass over me. 9. The LORD hath promised his goodness by day, and by night I sing unto him, and pray unto the LORD of my life. 10. I say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgotten me? Why must I walk so sadly when my enemy presses me? 11. It is as murder in mine legs, that mine enemies reproach me, when they say unto me daily, Where is now thy God? 12. Why art thou troubled, O my soul, and art troubled within me? Wait upon God; for I will yet thank him, that he is the help of my countenance, and my God. The 43rd Psalm (^) Recourse to God, the Supreme Judge 1. Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against the unholy people, and deliver me from the false and wicked people. 2. For thou art the God of my strength: why hast thou cast me off? Why hast thou let me go so sadly, when mine enemy presseth me? 3. Send thy light and thy truth, that they may guide me, and bring me unto thy holy mountain, and unto thy dwelling place, 4. that I may go in to the altar of GOD, to the GOD who is my joy and delight, and to you, GOD; on the harp give thanks, my GOD! 5. Why art thou grieved, O my soul, and art troubled within me? Wait upon God; for I will yet thank him, that he is the help of my countenance, and my God. The 44th Psalm (^) General condition and prayer of the saints. 1. an instruction of the children of Korah to sing aloud, 2. O God, we have heard with our ears; our fathers have told us what thou didst in their days of old. 3. Thou hast driven out the heathen with thine hand, but thou hast established them: thou hast destroyed the nations, but thou hast spread them abroad. 4. For they took not the land by the sword, neither did their arm help them; but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance: for thou wast well pleased with them. 5. O God, thou art the same my King, who promised help to Jacob. 6. By thee will we smite our enemies: in thy name will we subdue them that set themselves against us. 7. For I rely not on my bow, neither can my sword help me, 8. But thou savest us from our enemies, and destroyest them that hate us. 9. We will praise God daily, and give thanks unto thy name for ever. Sela. 10. Wherefore then hast thou cast us off, and left us to be consumed, and hast thou not gone out from among our host? 11. Thou hast caused us to flee from our enemy, that they which hate us should rob us. 12. Thou hast devoured us like sheep, and scattered us among the heathen. 13. Thou sellest thy people for nought, and takest nothing for it. 14. Thou makest us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and a derision to them that are round about us. 15. Thou makest us an ensample among the heathen, and the nations shake their heads at us. 16. My reproach is daily before me, and my face is full of shame, 17. That I should hear the reproachful and the blasphemous, and see the enemies and the revengeful. 18. All these things are come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, nor dealt unfaithfully in thy covenant; 19. Our heart is not turned aside, neither is our way gone out of thy way, 20. That thou shouldest smite us under the dragon, and cover us with darkness. 21. If we had forgotten the name of our God, and lifted up our hands unto a strange God, 22. That God would find: for now he knoweth the reason of our hearts. 23. For we are slain daily for thy sake, and are esteemed as sheep for the slaughter. 24. Awaken, O Lord, why are you asleep? Awake, and do not cast us off so completely! 25. Why hidest thou thy face, forgetting our affliction and our distress? 26. For our soul is bowed down to the earth; our belly cleaveth to the ground. 27. Arise, help us, and deliver us for thy goodness' sake. The 45th Psalm (^) Prophecy of the bridegroom, Christ, and the church, his bride. 1. a bridal song and teaching the children Korah of the roses to sing. 2. My heart is a poet of a song, I will sing of a king: my tongue is a pen of a good writer. 3. Thou art the fairest of the children of men: thy lips are lovely: therefore God bless thee for ever. 4. Gird up thy sword at thy side, thou hero, and adorn thyself fair! 5. Let it prosper thee in thy ornaments. Prove thou well the truth, and keep the wretched in the right, and thy right hand shall shew wonders. 6. Sharp are thine arrows, that the nations fall down before thee in the midst of the king's enemies. 7. Thy throne abideth for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a straight sceptre. 8. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore hath thy God anointed thee with the oil of gladness, more than thy fellows. 9. Thy garments are all myrrh, and aloes, and kezia, when thou comest forth out of the ivory palaces in thy fair splendor. 10. In thy ornaments go the daughters of kings: the bride is at thy right hand in the most precious gold. 11. Hear, daughter, look upon it, and incline thine ears; forget thy people, and thy father's house, 12. Then shall the king delight in thy beauty: for he is thy Lord, and thou shalt worship him. 13. The daughter of Zor shall be there with a gift; the rich among the people shall plead before thee. 14. The king's daughter is all glorious within: she is clothed with jewels of gold. 15. They bring her to the king in her embroidered garments; and they bring her maidens that go after her unto thee. 16. They are led with joy and gladness, and go into the king's palace. 17. Instead of thy fathers thou shalt have children; and thou shalt make them rulers in all the earth. 18. I will remember thy name from child to child: therefore shall the nations give thee thanks for ever and ever. The 46th Psalm (^) The church comfort and security. 1. a song of the children Korah of the youth, to sing. 2. God is our confidence and strength, a help in the great hardships that have befallen us. 3. Therefore we fear not, though the world were to end, and though the mountains were to sink into the midst of the sea, 4. Though the sea raged and tossed, and the mountains fell from the violence thereof. Sela. 5. Nevertheless the city of God shall be pleasant with her fountains, where are the holy habitation of the Most High. 6. God is with her within, therefore she will abide well; God will help her early. 7. The heathen shall despair, and the kingdoms shall fall: the earth shall perish, if he be heard. 8. The LORD of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our refuge. Sela. 9. Come and see the works of the LORD, which destroyeth the earth, 10. Who controls wars in all the earth, who breaks bows, shatters spears, and burns chariots with fire. 11. Be still, and know that I am God. I will bring glory among the nations, I will bring glory on earth. 12. The LORD of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our refuge. Sela. The 47th Psalm (^) From Ascension. 1. A psalm to sing unto the children of Korah. 2. Rejoice with your hands, all nations, and shout with joy to God. 3. For the LORD most high is terrible, a great king over all the face of the earth. 4. He shall compel the nations under us, and the people under our feet. 5. He hath chosen us for an inheritance the glory of Jacob, whom he loveth. Sela. 6. God taketh away with shouting, and the LORD with a loud trumpet. 7. Sing ye praises, sing ye praises unto God: sing ye praises, sing ye praises unto our King. 8. For God is King over all the face of the earth; praise Him wisely. 9. GOD is King over the Gentiles; GOD sits on His holy throne. 10. The princes of the nations are gathered together unto one people unto the God of Abraham: for God is greatly exalted among the shields of the earth. The 48th Psalm (^) Model of the Christian Church. 1. a psalm song of the children of Korah. 2. Great is the LORD, and highly renowned in the city of our God, in his holy mountain. 3. Mount Zion is as a goodly branch, which all the earth comforteth: on the north side is the city of the great king. 4. God is known in their palaces to be the protector. 5. For, behold, kings are gathered together, and passed by one another. 6. They marvelled when they saw these things; they were amazed, and fell. 7. trembling she arrived there, afraid like a woman in childbirth. 8. thou breakest ships in the sea by the east wind. 9. As we have heard, so we see it in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God upholdeth it for ever. Sela 10. God, we wait for your goodness in your temple. 11. God, as thy name, so is thy glory, even unto the end of the world: thy statutes are full of righteousness. 12. Let mount Zion rejoice, and let the daughters of Judah be glad because of thy statutes. 13. Make yourselves round about Zion, and compass her: number her towers. 14. Put diligence upon their walls, and exalt their palaces, that they may declare it unto their seed, 15. That this God may be our God for ever and ever. He leadeth us as the youth. The 49th Psalm (^) Teaching and comfort against the happiness of the wicked. 1. a psalm of the children of Korah, to be sung. 2. Hearken, all ye nations; take heed, all ye that dwell in this time, 3. Both common man and lords, both rich and poor together. 4. My mouth shall speak of wisdom, and my heart shall speak of understanding. 5. let us hear a good saying and play a fine poem on the harp. 6. Why should I fear in evil days, when the iniquity of my transgressors compasseth me about? 7. Who trust in their goods, and brave in their great riches. 8. For a brother cannot redeem anyone, nor can God reconcile anyone; 9. For it cost too much to redeem her soul, that he should suffer it to stand for ever, 10. Though he live as long as he liveth, and see not the pit. 11. For it shall be seen that such wise men die, as well as fools and fools perish, and leave their goods to others. 12. This is their heart, that their houses may endure for ever, and their dwellings be established for ever, and have great honour upon the earth. 13. Nevertheless they cannot abide in such dignity, but must go away like cattle. 14. This their doings are foolishness: neither do their seed praise it with their mouth. 15. They are in hell as sheep, death gnaweth them: but the righteous shall soon have dominion over them, and their defiance shall pass away, and they shall abide in hell. 16. But God shall deliver my soul out of the power of hell: for he hath accepted me. Sela. 17. Let it not deceive thee, whether a man be rich, whether the glory of his house be great. 18. For he shall take nothing with him in his death, and his glory shall not follow him. 19. But he comforteth himself of this good life, and glorifieth it, when any man seeketh good days. 20. So they go after their fathers, and never see the light. 21. In short, if a man be in dignity, and have not understanding, he fleeth away as cattle. The 50th Psalm (^) Of true worship. 1. A psalm of Assaph. God the Lord, the Mighty, speaks and calls to the world from the rising of the sun to its setting. 2. out of Zion cometh the brightness of God. 3. Our God cometh, and is not silent. Fire devoureth before him, and great weather round about him. 4. He calleth heaven and earth to judge his people. 5. Gather unto me my saints, which esteem the covenant more than sacrifice. 6. And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for GOD is judge. Sela. 7. Hear, my people, let me speak, O Israel; let me testify among thee, I, GOD, am thy GOD. 8. Because of thy sacrifice I will not punish thee: for thy burnt offerings are always before me. 9. I will not take bullocks out of thy house, nor goats out of thy stalls; 10. For all the beasts of the forest are mine, and the cattle upon the mountains, as they go by thousands. 11. I know all the fowls of the mountains, and every beast of the field is before me. 12. Where I hungered, I would not tell thee: for the ground is mine, and all that is therein. 13. Wilt thou have me to eat the flesh of an ox, or to drink the blood of a goat? 14. Offer thanks to God and pay your vows to the Most High. 15. And call upon me in trouble, and I will deliver thee, and thou shalt praise me. 16. But unto the wicked God saith, Why declareest thou my statutes, and takest my covenant in thy mouth? 17. If thou hate discipline, and cast my words behind thee? 18. When thou seest a thief, thou shalt run with him, and have fellowship with adulterers. 19. Thou hast made thy mouth to speak evil, and thy tongue to speak deceit. 20. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thy mother's son. 21. Thou doest so, and I hold my peace. Thou thinkest I shall be as thou art. But I will punish thee, and will make thee see it. 22. Mark this, ye that forget God, that I will not even depart, and there shall be no more saviour. 23. He that offereth thanksgiving glorifieth me: and there is the way that I may shew him the salvation of God. The 51st Psalm (^) David's sermon on repentance. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung, 2. When Nathan the prophet came to him, when he was come to Bathsheba. 3. God, be merciful to me according to your goodness, and blot out my sins according to your great mercy! 4. Wash me well from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 5. For I know my iniquity, and my sin is always before me. 6. In thee only have I sinned, and done evil in thy sight, that thou mightest be justified in thy words, and be pure when thou art judged. 7. Behold, I am begotten of sinful seed, and my mother conceived me in sins. 8. Behold, thou delightest in the truth that is in secret: thou hast made me to know the secret wisdom. 9. Defile me with hyssop, that I may be clean: wash me, that I may be white as snow. 10. Let me hear joy and gladness, that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 11. Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. 12. Create in me, O God, a pure heart, and give me a new, conscientious spirit. 13. Cast me not away from thy presence, neither take thy Holy Spirit from me. 14. Comfort me again with thy help, and the joyful spirit contain me. 15. For I will teach the transgressors thy ways, that sinners may turn unto thee. 16. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, who art my God and Saviour, that my tongue may praise thy righteousness. 17. Open my lips, O LORD, that my mouth may declare thy glory. 18. For thou hast no pleasure in sacrifice; otherwise I would give it thee: and burnt offerings are not pleasing unto thee. 19. the sacrifices that please GOD are a troubled spirit; a troubled and bruised heart you, GOD, will not despise. 20. Do well unto Zion according to thy mercy: build the walls of Jerusalem. 21. Then shall the sacrifices of righteousness, the burnt offerings, and the whole sacrifices, be acceptable unto thee: then shall bullocks be offered upon thine altar. The 52nd Psalm (^) David's complaint about Doeg. 1. an instruction of David to sing before, 2. And Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, saying, David is come into Ahimelech's house. 3. Why then, thou tyrant, art thou able to do harm, when the goodness of God is yet daily? 4. your tongue seeks harm and cuts with lies like a sharp shearing knife. 5. you speak evil rather than good and wrong rather than right. Sela. 6. Thou speakest with a false tongue all things that are for destruction. 7. Therefore God also shall utterly destroy thee, and break thee in pieces, and pluck thee out of the tabernacle, and cut thee off from the land of the living. Sela. 8. And the righteous shall see it, and be afraid, and shall laugh: 9. Behold, this is the man that thought not God his comfort, but trusted in his great riches, and was mighty to do harm. 10. But I will abide as a green olive tree in the house of GOD, relying on GOD's goodness forever and ever. 11. I thank thee for ever: for thou canst do it well: and I will wait upon thy name: for thy saints delight therein. The 53rd Psalm (^) Of man's ruin and salvation. 1. an instruction of David to sing in chorus around one another. 2. The foolish say in their heart, There is no God. They are good for nothing and have become an abomination in their evil nature. There is none that doeth good. 3. God looketh from heaven upon the children of men, to see if any man be wise that seeketh after God. 4. But they are all fallen away, and are all unfit. There is none that doeth good, neither one. 5. Will not the evildoers tell them, that devour my people, that they feed? God do they not call upon. 6. But they are afraid, because there is no fear: for God scattereth the bones of the beaters. Thou hast put them to shame; for God spurneth them. 7. Oh that help would come upon Israel out of Zion, and that God would deliver his captive people! Then Jacob shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad. The 54th Psalm (^) Prayer for help and salvation. 1. an instruction of David to sing on strings, 2. And they of Ziph came and said unto Saul, David hath hid himself with us. 3. Help me, O God, by your name, and establish justice for me by your power. 4. O God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. 5. For the proud set themselves against me, and the proud after my soul, and have not God before their eyes. Sela. 6. Behold, God helpeth me: the LORD upholdeth my soul. 7. He shall pay the wickedness of mine enemies. Destroy them by your faithfulness! 8. Then will I offer unto thee a sacrifice of joy, and give thanks unto thy name, O LORD, because it is so comforting. 9. For thou hast delivered me out of all mine affliction, that mine eye may delight in mine enemies. The 55th Psalm (^) Prayer against the false brethren. 1. an instruction of David to sing on strings. 2. God, hear my prayer and do not hide from my supplication. 3. Take heed unto me, and hear me, how I mourn and howl, 4. That the enemy crieth, and the wicked presseth: for they will prove me a fool, and are sore grieved against me. 5. My heart is troubled in my flesh, and the fear of death is fallen upon me. 6. Fear and trembling is come upon me, and horror hath overtaken me. 7. And I said, O that I had wings like doves, that I might fly and stay! 8. Behold, I will depart afar off, and dwell in the wilderness. Sela. 9. I would hasten that I might be deadened from the tempest and from the weather. 10. Make their tongues divided, O LORD, and let them perish: for I see iniquity and strife in the city. 11. These things go round about within their walls day and night: there is toil and labour within them. 12. Wickedness reigneth within: lying and deceitfulness depart not from her lane. 13. But if mine enemy ravished me, I would suffer it: and if my hater pierced me, I would hide myself from him; 14. But thou art my journeyman, and my keeper, and my kinsman, 15. Who were friendly with one another among ourselves; we walked in the house of God in multitudes. 16. death overtakes them, and must go alive into hell: for there is wickedness among their multitude. 17. But I will cry unto God, and the LORD shall help me. 18. In the evening, and in the morning, and at noon, will I mourn and howl; and he shall hear my voice. 19. He redeemeth my soul from them that seek me, and restoreth it: for they are many against me. 20. God will hear and humble them, who abides all the way. Sela. For they will not be different and will not fear God. 21. For they lay their hands on his seed of peace, and profane his covenant. 22. Their mouth is smoother than butter, and yet they have war in mind; their words are softer than oil, and yet they are mere swords. 23. Cast thine affliction upon the LORD. He will provide for thee, and will not leave the righteous in trouble for ever. 24. But, O GOD, you will push them down into the deep pit. The bloodthirsty and the false will not bring their lives to the half. But I hope in you. The 56th Psalm (^) Prayer against the persecutors. 1. A golden jewel of David, from the dumb dove among the strangers, when the Philistines took him at Gath. 2. God, have mercy on me, for men want to sink me; daily they quarrel and fear me. 3. Mine enemies daily sink me: for many contend against me proudly. 4. when I am afraid, I hope in you. 5. I will glory in the word of God; in God will I hope, and not fear: what shall flesh do unto me? 6. They daily dispute my words: all their thoughts are to do me evil. 7. They keep in multitude, and lie in wait, and take heed how they catch my soul. 8. What evil they do is already forgiven. God, cast down such people without all mercy! 9. count my flight, grasp my tears in your sack! Without a doubt, you count them. 10. Then shall mine enemies return when I call: so shall I know that thou art my God. 11. I will praise the word of God; I will praise the word of the LORD. 12. In God I hope, and fear not: what can men do unto me? 13. I have vowed unto thee, O God, that I will give thanks unto thee. 14. For thou hast delivered my soul from death, and my feet from slipping, that I may walk before God in the light of the living. The 57th Psalm (^) Prayer against the cruelty of the enemy. 1. A precious jewel of David, to sing before him, that he perish not, when he fled from Saul into the cave. 2. Have mercy upon me, O God, have mercy upon me. For my soul trusteth in thee, and under the shadow of thy wings I have refuge, until the calamity pass. 3. I cry to GOD, the Most High, to GOD who makes an end of my miseries. 4. He sendeth from heaven, and saveth me from the reproach of my sinking. Sela. God sends His goodness and faithfulness. 5. I lie with my soul among the lions. The children of men are flames; their teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongues sharp swords. 6. Exalt yourself, O God, above the heavens, and your glory above all the earth! 7. They set nets for my way, and press down my soul: they dig a pit before me, and fall therein themselves. Sela. 8. My heart is ready, O God, my heart is ready, that I may sing and praise. 9. Awake, my glory, awake, psaltery and harp! Early I will awake. 10. O LORD, I will give thee thanks among the nations, I will sing praise unto thee among the people. 11. For thy lovingkindness is as far as the heavens, and thy truth as far as the clouds go. 12. Exalt yourself, O God, above the heavens, and your glory above all the earth! The 58th Psalm (^) Complain about the detractors. 1. A golden jewel of David, to sing before him, that he perish not. 2. Are ye then dumb, that ye will not speak that which is right, and judge that which is equal, ye children of men? 3. Ye have wrought iniquity in the land, and have gone straight through with your hands to do iniquity. 4. The wicked are perverse from their mother's womb: the liars err from their mother's womb. 5. Their raging is like the raging of a serpent, like a deaf adder that stoppeth his ear, 6. That she hear not the voice of the sorcerer, the conjurer, who is able to conjure. 7. O God, break their teeth in their mouths; bruise, O LORD, the molars of the young lions. 8. they shall melt away as the waters that flow. They aim their arrows, but they break them. 9. They perish as a snail languisheth: as a woman's untimely birth they see not the sun. 10. Before your thorns be ripe in the briers, a wrath shall pluck them away so fresh. 11. The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth such vengeance, and shall bathe his feet in the blood of the wicked, 12. And men shall say, The righteous shall enjoy his reward: for God is yet judge on the earth. The 59th Psalm (^) Prayer against the persecutors. 1. A precious jewel of David, that he should not perish, when Saul sent and kept his house, to slay him. 2. Deliver me, O my God, from mine enemies, and save me from them that set themselves against me. 3. Deliver me from the transgressors, and save me from the bloodthirsty. 4. For, lo, LORD, they lie in wait for my soul: the mighty are gathered together against me without my fault and iniquity. 5. They run without my fault, and prepare themselves. Awake and meet me, and behold! 6. Thou, O LORD God of hosts, O LORD God of Israel, awake, and visit all the nations: have mercy on them that are not bold iniquitous. Sela. 7. And in the evening let them also howl like dogs, and run about the city. 8. Behold, they chatter together; swords are in their lips: Who shall hear? 9. But thou, O LORD, wilt laugh at them, and mock all the heathen. 10. From their power will I cleave unto thee: for God is my refuge. 11. God showeth me his lovingkindness abundantly: God maketh me to see my delight in mine enemies. 12. Slay them not, that they forget not my people: but scatter them with thy might, O LORD our shield, and cast them down. 13. Their doctrine is vain sin, and they persist in their pride, and preach vain cursing and contradicting. 14. Destroy them without all mercy. Destroy them, that they may be nothing, and know that God is ruler in Jacob, in all the earth. Sela. 15. And in the evening let them also howl like dogs, and run about the city. 16. Let them run to and fro for meat, and murmur, if they be not filled. 17. But I will sing of thy power, and praise thy lovingkindness in the morning: for thou art my defence and my refuge in my trouble. 18. I will sing praises unto thee, my stronghold: for thou, O God, art my refuge, and my gracious God. The 60th Psalm (^) Prayer for the welfare of the people of Israel 1. a golden jewel of David, to sing before, to teach of a golden rosebush, 2. When he had fought with the Syrians of Mesopotamia, and with the Syrians of Zobah, Joab returned, and smote twelve thousand of the Edomites in the valley of salt. 3. O God, who hast cast us off and scattered us, and hast been angry with us, comfort us again. 4. Thou that hast moved the earth, and rent it asunder, heal the breaches thereof, which is so bruised. 5. For thou hast shown hardness unto thy people; thou hast given us a drink of wine, that we staggered. 6. But thou gavest a sign unto them that fear thee, which they lifted up, and made them safe. Sela. 7. That thy loved ones may be done, help now with thy right hand, and hear us. 8. God speaketh in his sanctuary, I am glad; and I will divide Shechem, and measure the valley of Shushoth. 9. Gilead is mine, Manasseh is mine; Ephraim is the power of my head; Judah is my prince, 10. Moab is my washing-pot; I stretch out my shoe over Edom; Philistia exults in me. 11. Who will lead me into a strong city? Who will lead me as far as Edom? 12. Wilt thou not do it, O GOD, which hast cast us off, and wilt thou not go forth, O GOD, upon our host? 13. Give us help in trouble: for help of man is no good. 14. With God we will do deeds. He will trample under our enemies. The 61st Psalm (^) Prayer for the authorities, that God may be their strong tower. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung on a stringed instrument. 2. Hear, O God, my cry, and hearken unto my prayer. 3. While I am yet on earth, when my heart is in anguish, I cry unto thee, Thou wilt lead me up to a high rock. 4. For thou art my confidence, one before mine enemies. 5. I will dwell in thy tabernacle for ever; I will trust under thy wings. Sela. 6. For thou, O God, hearest my vows: thou rewardest them that fear thy name. 7. Thou givest a king long life, that his years may endure for ever and ever, 8. That he may always sit down before God, shewing him kindness and faithfulness that keep him. 9. Then will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, and pay my vows daily. The 62nd Psalm (^) Constant comfort against the enemy. 1. a psalm of David for Jeduthun, to be sung. 2. my soul is silent to God, who helps me. 3. For he is my stronghold, my help, my refuge, that no fall shall overthrow me, how great he is. 4. How long do ye all pursue after one, to slay him, as a hanging wall, and as a broken wall? 5. They only think how to muffle him, they diligently lie, they give good words, but in their hearts they curse. Sela. 6. But my soul waiteth only for God: for he is my hope. 7. He is my refuge, my help, and my protection, that I shall not fall. 8. with GOD is my salvation, my glory, the rock of my strength; my confidence is in GOD. 9. Hope in Him always, dear people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our confidence. Sela. 10. But men are nothing, great men also lack; they weigh less than nothing, as much as they are. 11. Rely not on iniquity and righteousness; hold not yourselves to that which is nothing. If riches come to you, do not set your heart on them. 12. God hath spoken a word, which I have heard many times, that God alone is mighty. 13. And thou, O LORD, art gracious, and payest every man according to his due. The 63rd Psalm (^) Prayer for true worship. 1. A psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness. 2. O God, thou art my God: early I awake unto thee. My soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh desireth thee, in a dry and parched land, where there is no water. 3. There I look for thee in thy sanctuary; I would behold thy power and thy glory. 4. For thy lovingkindness is better than life. My lips praise thee. 5. There would I gladly praise thee all the days of my life, and lift up my hands in thy name. 6. This is the joy and gladness of my heart, if I should praise thee with a glad mouth. 7. When I lay me down to sleep, I remember thee: when I awake, I speak of thee. 8. For thou art my helper, and under the shadow of thy wings I glory. 9. My soul cleaveth unto thee: thy right hand upholdeth me. 10. But they stand after my soul to assail me: they shall go down under the earth. 11. They shall fall on the sword, and be given to the foxes. 12. But the king rejoiceth in GOD. He that sweareth by him shall be glorified: for the lying lips shall be stopped. The 64th Psalm (^) Prayer for protection of life and good name. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. Hear, O God, my voice in my lamentation; keep my life from the cruel enemy! 3. hide me from the gathering of the wicked, from the heap of evildoers, 4. Who sharpen their tongue like a sword, who aim their poisonous words like arrows, 5. That they shoot secretly at the pious: suddenly they shoot at him without all timidity. 6. They are bold with their wicked devices, and say how they will lay cords, and speak: Who can see them? 7. They invent mischief, and keep it secret; they are crafty, and have crafty plots. 8. But God shall shoot them suddenly, and they shall be in pain. 9. Their own tongues shall cut them off, and he that beholdeth them shall mock them. 10. And all men that see it shall say, This hath God done, and shall know that it is His work. 11. The righteous shall rejoice in the LORD, and trust in him: and all the upright in heart shall glory in him. The 65th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's benefits. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung to song. 2. God, you are praised in the silence of Zion, and vows are paid to you. 3. thou hearest prayer; therefore all flesh cometh unto thee. 4. Our iniquity is heavy upon us: thou wilt forgive our sin. 5. Blessed is he whom thou choosest, whom thou dost admit to dwell in thy courts. He hath rich consolation from thy house, thy holy temple. Hear us according to the marvellous righteousness, O God, our salvation, who art the confidence of all on earth and far off by the sea; 7. Who setteth the mountains in his strength, and is armed with might; 8. Who stillest the roaring of the sea, the roaring of its waves, and the raging of the nations, 9. And they that dwell in the same parts shall be astonished at thy signs. Thou makest glad all that weave, Both the morning and the evening. 10. Thou hast visited the land, and watered it, and made it very rich. The fountain of God hath abundance of water. Thou makest her corn to grow, For thus thou makest the land. 11. Thou waterest his furrows, and wettest his plow: with rain thou makest it soft, and blessest his growth. 12. Thou crownest the year with thy goods, and thy footsteps drip with fatness. 13. The dwellings also of the wilderness are fat, that they drip; and the hills are merry round about. 14. The fields are full of sheep, and the meadows are thick with corn: they sing and rejoice. The 66th Psalm (^) Praise and glory to the wonderful works of God. 1. a psalm song to be sung. Rejoice to God, all the earth! 2. Sing ye praises unto his name: praise him gloriously. 3. Say unto God, How marvellous are thy works! Thine enemies shall fail before thy great power. 4. All the earth shall worship thee, and sing praise unto thee, and sing praise unto thy name. Sela. 5. Look, and behold the works of God, who is so wonderful in his works among the children of men. 6. He turneth the sea into dry land, that men may walk upon the face of the waters: we rejoice in him. 7. He reigneth with his power for ever: his eyes are upon the nations. The apostates shall not be able to exalt themselves. Sela. 8. Praise, ye nations, our God: let his praise be heard afar off, 9. Who keeps our souls in life, and does not let our feet slip. 10. For, O God, thou hast tried and refined us, as silver is refined. 11. Thou hast cast us into the tower; thou hast laid a burden upon our loins; 12. Thou hast caused men to pass over our heads: we are come in fire and in water: but thou hast brought us out, and hast refreshed us. 13. Therefore will I enter into thine house with burnt offerings, and pay thee my vows, 14. As I have opened my lips, and my mouth hath spoken in my trouble. 15. I will offer thee fat burnt offerings of burnt rams; I will offer oxen with rams. Selah. 16. Come, hear, all ye that fear God; and I will tell you what he hath done for my soul. 17. To him I cried with my mouth, and praised him with my tongue. 18. If I have wrought iniquity in my heart, the LORD will not hear. 19. Therefore God heareth me, and hearkeneth unto my supplications. 20. Praise be to God, who does not reject my prayer nor turn away his kindness from me. The 67th Psalm Prayer and thanksgiving for God's gracious blessings. 1. a psalm song, to be sung on strings. 2. May God have mercy on us and bless us; may He make His face shine upon us, Sela, 3. That we may know his way upon earth, and his salvation among all nations. 4. The nations give thanks unto thee, O God: all nations give thanks unto thee. 5. The nations rejoice and exult, because thou judgest the people aright, and governest the people of the earth. Sela. 6. The nations give thanks unto thee, O God: all nations give thanks unto thee. 7. the land gives its crops. May God bless us, our God! 8. May God bless us, and may all the earth fear Him! The 68th Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ's exaltation and its glorious power. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. Let God arise, and let his enemies be scattered, and let them that hate him flee from him. 3. Drive them out as the smoke is driven out; as the wax melts from the fire, so must the wicked perish before God. 4. But the righteous must rejoice and be glad before God, and be glad from the heart. 5. Sing unto God, sing praises unto his name. Make ye way for him that cometh gently. His name is the LORD; and rejoice before him, 6. Who is a father of the fatherless and a judge of widows. He is GOD in His holy dwelling, 7. a God who gives the house full of children to the lonely, who brings out the captives in due time, and leaves the apostates in the drought. 8. God, when thou wentest before thy people, when thou walkedest in the wilderness, Selah, 9. Then the earth prayed, and the heavens trembled before this God in Sinai, before the God who is Israel's God. 10. But now, O God, thou givest a gracious rain, and thou restorest thine inheritance, which is dry, 11. That thy beasts may dwell therein. God, you feed the wretched with your goods. 12. The LORD giveth the word with great multitudes of evangelists. 13. The kings of hosts are friends one to another, and the honour of the house divideth the spoil. 14. When ye lie in the field, they shine as the wings of doves, gleaming as silver and gold. 15. If the Almighty now and then set kings among them, then there is light where there is darkness. 16. The mountain of God is a fruitful mountain, a great and fruitful mountain. 17. Why do ye leap great mountains? God delighteth to dwell in this mountain, and the LORD also dwelleth there for ever. 18. The chariot of God is many thousands of thousands: the LORD is among them in holy Sinai. 19. Thou hast gone up on high, and hast caught the prison; thou hast received gifts for men, even for the apostates, that God the LORD may abide there nevertheless. 20. Praise be to the LORD daily! GOD lays a burden on us, but He also helps us. Sela. 21. We have one God that helpeth, and the Lord GOD that saveth from death. 22. But God shall bruise the head of his enemies with the skull of their hair, who continue in their sin. 23. But thus saith the LORD, I will take some from among the fat men; out of the depth of the sea will I take some. 24. Therefore shall thy foot be dyed in the blood of the enemy, and thy dogs shall lick it. 25. Behold, O God, how thou walkest, how thou, my God and my King, walkest in the sanctuary. 26. The singers go before, and after them the minstrels among the maidservants that play. 27. Praise GOD the LORD in the assemblies for the fountain of Israel. 28. And there reigned among them little Benjamin, the princes of Judah with their companies, the princes of Zebulun, the princes of Naphtali. 29. Your God has established your kingdom. You, O God, will strengthen it for us, for it is your work. 30. For thy temple's sake in Jerusalem shall the kings bring thee gifts. 31. He shall rebuke the beast that is in the reed, the herd of oxen among their calves, which tread under foot for money's sake. He scattereth the nations, which love to get. 32. the princes of Egypt will come, Mohrenland will stretch out its hands to GOD. 33. Ye kingdoms of the earth, sing unto God, sing unto the LORD, selah, 34. To him that moveth in heaven from the beginning of the world. Behold, he shall give power unto his thunder. 35. Give God the power! His glory is in Israel, and His power in the clouds. 36. GOD is wondrous in His sanctuary. He is GOD of Israel; He will give power and strength to the people. Praise be to GOd! The 69th Psalm (^) The Messiah's prayer in his suffering. 1. a psalm of David from the roses, to be sung. 2. God, help me; for the water is come up to my soul. 3. I sink in deep mire, because there is no bottom: I am in deep water, and the flood will drown me. 4. I have cried with a sore voice, my throat is sore: my face is sore, because I have waited so long for my God. 5. They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head. They that are unreasonably hostile unto me, And destroy me, are mighty. I must pay for that which I have not stolen. 6. O God, thou knowest my folly, and my debts are not hid from thee. 7. Let not them that wait for thee, O LORD of hosts, be ashamed of me. Let not them that seek thee, O God of Israel, be ashamed in me. 8. For thy sake I bear reproach, my face is full of shame. 9. I am become a stranger unto my brethren, and unknown unto my mother's children. 10. For I am almost jealous for thine house: and the reproach of them that reproach thee is upon me. 11. And I weep, and fast bitterly; and they mock me for it. 12. I have put on sackcloth; but they make a mockery of it. 13. They that sit in the gate wash of me; and in the taverns they sing of me. 14. But I pray thee, O LORD, in due season. God, through your great goodness, hear me with your faithful help! 15. Deliver me out of the dung, that I sink not; that I may be delivered from mine haters, and from the deep waters, 16. Lest the flood of waters drown me, and the deep swallow me up, and the hole of the pit close upon me. 17. Hear me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness is acceptable: turn thee unto me according to thy great mercy. 18. And hide not thy face from thy servant: for I am afraid: hear me speedily. 19. Make thee my soul, and deliver it: deliver me for mine enemies' sake. 20. Thou knowest my reproach, my shame, and my disgrace: mine adversaries are all before thee. 21. The reproach breaketh my heart, and grieveth me. I wait to see if any will mourn, but there is none; and for comforters, but I find none. 22. And they give me gall to eat, and vinegar to drink in my great thirst. 23. Let their table become a snare before them, a retribution and a trap! 24. Let their eyes be darkened, that they see not; and let their loins always be troubled. 25. Pour out thy displeasure upon them, and let thy fierce anger seize them. 26. Let their habitation be desolate, and let none dwell in their tents. 27. For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten, and boast that thou hast smitten thine own with evil. 28. Let them fall into one sin upon another, that they come not unto thy righteousness. 29. Blot them out of the book of the living, that they be not written with the righteous. 30. But I am wretched, and I am in woe. God, your help protect me! 31. I will praise the name of God with a song, and will highly honor him with thanksgiving. 32. This shall please the LORD better than a bullock that hath horns and hoofs. 33. The wretched see and rejoice; and those who seek God, their hearts will live. 34. For the LORD heareth the poor, and despiseth not his prisoners. 35. Let heaven, earth, and sea, and all that moveth therein, praise him. 36. For God shall help Zion, and build the cities of Judah, that they may dwell there, and possess them. 37. And the seed of his servants shall inherit them, and they that love his name shall dwell therein. The 70th Psalm (^) David's plea for help against the enemies. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung in remembrance. 2. make haste, O GOD, to save me, O LORD, to help me! 3. They that desire my soul shall be ashamed and confounded: they that wish me ill shall return and be heard, 4. And they shall be ashamed again, that cry against me: There, there! 5. Let them that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: and let them that love thy salvation say always, Blessed be God. 6. But I am wretched and poor. God, make haste to me, for you are my helper and savior; my God, do not consume me! The 71st Psalm (^) Prayer for salvation. 1. O LORD, I trust in thee: let me never be put to shame. 2. Save me by thy righteousness, and deliver me: incline thine ear unto me, and help me. 3. Be thou a stronghold unto me, whither I may always flee, who hast promised to help me: for thou art my rock and my fortress. 4. My God, save me from the hand of the wicked, from the hand of the unrighteous and the tyrant. 5. For thou art my confidence, O Lord, my hope from my youth. 6. In thee have I trusted from my mother's womb: thou hast drawn me out of my mother's womb. My glory is always from thee. 7. I am as a wonder before many: but thou art my strong assurance. 8. Let my mouth be full of thy glory and thy praise daily. 9. Cast me not away in my old age: forsake me not when I am faint. 10. For mine enemies speak against me, and they that hold upon my soul take counsel with one another. 11. And say: God has forsaken him; pursue and seize him, for there is no savior! 12. God, be not far from me; my God, make haste to help me. 13. They that are against my soul shall be ashamed, and perish: they that seek my evil shall be covered with shame and scorn. 14. But I will always wait, and will always make thy glory more. 15. My mouth shall declare thy righteousness, thy salvation daily, which I cannot number. 16. I walk in the strength of the LORD GOD: I praise thy righteousness alone. 17. God, thou hast taught me from my youth: therefore declare I thy wonders. 18. Neither forsake me, O God, in my old age, when I am gray, until I declare thy arm to my children's children, and thy strength to all that are to come. 19. O God, your righteousness is great, you who do great things. God, who is like you? 20. For thou hast made me to know much and great fear, and hast restored me to life, and brought me up out of the depth of the earth. 21. thou makest me very great, and comforteth me again. 22. So I also thank thee with psaltery for thy faithfulness, O my God: I sing praises unto thee upon the harp, O holy one in Israel. 23. My lips and my soul, which thou hast redeemed, are glad and sing unto thee. 24. My tongue also doth daily commune with thy righteousness. For they that seek my evil shall be ashamed and confounded. The 72nd Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ and his kingdom. 1. To the God of Solomon, give thy judgment unto the king, and thy righteousness unto the king's son, 2. That he may bring thy people to righteousness, and save thy afflicted ones. 3. Let the mountains bring peace among the people, and the hills righteousness. 4. He shall uphold the wretched people in judgment, and shall help the poor, and shall smite the blasphemers. 5. They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, from child to child. 6. He shall descend as the rain upon the hide, as the drops that wet the land. 7. In his days shall the righteous flourish, and great peace, till the moon be no more. 8. He shall reign from sea to sea, and from the waters even unto the end of the world. 9. Before him shall they bow that are in the wilderness; and his enemies shall lick the dust. 10. The kings of the sea and of the isles shall bring gifts: the kings of Arabia and Seba shall bring gifts. 11. All kings shall worship him, all nations shall serve him. 12. For he shall deliver the poor that crieth, and the needy that hath no helper. 13. He will be gracious to the lowly and to the poor, and will help the souls of the poor. 14. He shall redeem her soul from deceit and from iniquity, and her blood shall be esteemed in his sight. 15. He shall live, and they shall give him of the gold of Arabia. And they shall pray before him continually; daily shall they praise him. 16. In the earth, upon the top of the mountains, shall the corn stand thick; the fruit thereof shall quake as Lebanon, and shall green in the cities as grass upon the earth. 17. His name shall be for ever: as long as the sun endureth, his name shall reach unto his seed, and they that are blessed by him shall be blessed: all the heathen shall praise him. 18. Blessed be the LORD God, the LORD God of Israel, which alone doeth wonders; 19. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let all the earth be filled with his glory. Amen, amen. 20. There is an end of the prayers of David the son of Jesse. The 73rd Psalm (^) Comfort and warning against vexation, concerning the happiness of the wicked. 1. a psalm of Assaph. Israel nevertheless has GOD for comfort, who only is pure in heart. 2. And I stumbled with my feet, and my footsteps almost slipped. 3. For I was grieved with the glorifiers, when I saw that the wicked prospered. 4. For they are in no ride of death, but stand fast as a palace. 5. they are not in misfortune like other people and are not afflicted like other people. 6. Therefore their defiance shall be a good thing, and their iniquity shall be called good. 7. Their person boasteth like a fat belly; they do whatsoever they think fit. 8. They destroy all things, and speak evil of them, and talk and blaspheme greatly. 9. What they speak must be spoken from heaven: what they say must be done on earth. 10. Therefore their rabble falleth unto them, and runneth unto them with heaps like waters. 11. And say: What should GOD ask of those? What should the Most High regard of them? 12. Behold, these are the wicked: they are blessed in the world, and wax rich. 13. Is it then in vain that my heart lives blamelessly, and that I wash my hands in innocency? 14. And I am afflicted daily, and my punishment is every morning? 15. I would almost have said as they did: but, behold, I would have damned all thy children that ever were. 16. I thought after him, that I might understand; but it was too hard for me. 17. Till I entered into the sanctuary of God, and saw the end thereof. 18. But thou settest them on the slippery ground, and castest them down to the ground. 19. How are they brought to nought so suddenly! They perish and come to an end with terror. 20. As a dream when one waketh, so thou, O LORD, makest their image despised in the city. 21. But it grieveth me in my heart, and stingeth me in my kidneys, 22. That I should be a fool, and know nothing, and be as a beast before thee. 23. Nevertheless I cleave unto thee always: for thou holdest me by my right hand, 24. Thou leadest me according to thy counsel, and receivest me at last with honour. 25. If I have thee only, I ask nothing of heaven and earth. 26. Though my body and soul languish, yet thou, O God, art ever the consolation of my heart, and my portion. 27. For, lo, they that depart from thee shall perish: thou destroyest all them that fornicate against thee. 28. But this is my joy, to cleave unto God, and to put my trust in the Lord GOD, to declare all thy doings. The 74th Psalm (^) Prayer for the preservation of the church. 1. a teaching of Assaph. God, why do you even reject us and are so fiercely angry with the sheep of your pasture? 2. Remember thy congregation, which thou hast purchased of old, and redeemed unto thine inheritance, even mount Zion, where thou dwellest. 3. Tread them under foot, and cast them down to the ground. The enemy has spoiled everything in the sanctuary. 4. Thine abominable ones roar in thy houses, and set their idols therein. 5. The axes are seen looking up, as one heweth in a forest, 6. And hew up all his tables with axe and baleen. 7. They burn up thy sanctuary; they profane the habitation of thy name to the ground. 8. They say in their heart, Let us plunder them. They burn all the houses of GOD in the land. 9. We see not our signs, neither doth a prophet preach, nor a teacher teach us any more. 10. O God, how long shall the wicked revile, and the enemy blaspheme thy name? 11. Why turnest thou away thy hand, and thy right hand from thy bosom so completely? 12. But God is my King from of old, which doeth all help that is done in the earth. 13. Thou shalt divide the sea by thy strength, and shatter the heads of the dragons in the waters. 14. Thou shalt break the heads of the whales, and give them for meat unto the people of the wilderness. 15. Thou hast caused fountains and rivers to flow; thou hast dried up mighty streams. 16. The day and the night are thine; thou makest both the sun and the stars to have their course. 17. Thou settest the border of every land; thou makest summer and winter. 18. Remember therefore, that the enemy reproacheth the LORD, and a foolish people blasphemeth thy name. 19. Thou wilt not give the soul of thy turtledove unto the beast, nor forget thy wretched beasts. 20. Remember the covenant: for the land is miserably desolate in every place, and the houses are broken down. 21. Let not the lowly go away with shame: for the poor and the miserable glorify thy name. 22. Arise, O God, and plead thy cause: remember the reproach that is daily returned unto thee of the fools. 23. Forget not the clamour of thine enemies: the clamour of thine adversaries increaseth the longer. The 75th Psalm (^) Praise of the wonders of God. Warning ,of security 1. A psalm and song of Assaph, that he perish not, to sing. 2. We thank thee, O GOD, we give thanks unto thee, and declare thy wonders, that thy name is so near. 3. For in his time I will judge aright. 4. The land trembleth, and all that dwell therein: but I hold her pillars fast. Sela. 5. And I said unto the glorifiers: Do not boast so; and to the wicked, Do not press for violence. 6. do not exalt your power, do not be stiff-necked, 7. Let there be no distress, neither from going up, nor from coming down, nor from the mountains of the wilderness. 8. For God is judge, who bringeth down this man, and exalteth that man. 9. For the LORD hath a cup in his hand full of strong wine, and poureth out of the same: but the wicked drink all, and drink out the lees. 10. But I will proclaim for ever, and sing praise unto the God of Jacob. 11. And I will break all the power of the wicked, that the power of the righteous may be exalted. The 76th Psalm (^) God is his church's defense. 1. a psalm song of Assaph, to be sung on strings. 2. GOD is known in Judah, in Israel His name is glorious. 3. In Salem is his tent, and his tabernacle in Zion. 4. there he breaketh the arrows of the bow, and the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Sela. 5. Thou art more glorious and mightier than the mountains of prey. 6. The proud shall be deprived, and shall fall asleep; and all the warriors shall let down their hands. 7. From thy rebuke, O God of Jacob, both horse and chariot shall fall asleep. 8. You're terrifying. Who can stand before you when you are angry? 9. When thou shalt hear judgment from heaven, the earth shall be afraid, and shall be still, 10. When God arises to judge, to help all the wretched of the earth. Sela. 11. When men rage against thee, thou puttest in honour: and when they rage more, thou art armed also. 12. Praise and keep the LORD your God, all ye that are about him; bring gifts unto the terrible one, 13. Who taketh away the courage of princes, and is terrible among the kings of the earth. The 77th Psalm (^) The pious are tempted and comforted. 1. a psalm of Assaph for Jeduthun, to be sung. 2. I cry with my voice unto GOD; unto GOD I cry, and he heareth me. 3. In the time of my trouble I seek the LORD: my hand is stretched out by night, and will not depart: for my soul will not be comforted. 4. When I am afflicted, I remember God; when my heart is in anguish, I speak. Sela. 5. Thou keepest mine eyes to watch: I am so faint that I cannot speak. 6. I think of the old time, of the former years. 7. I think on my strings at night, and speak with my heart; my mind must search. 8. Will the LORD then cast out for ever, and show no more mercy? 9. Is then his goodness utterly ended? and is there an end of the promise? 10. Hath God then forgotten to be gracious, and shut up his mercy from wrath? Sela. 11. But yet I said, I must suffer this: the right hand of the Most High is able to change all things. 12. Therefore I remember the deeds of the LORD: yea, I remember thy former wonders. 13. And speak of all thy works, and say of thy doings. 14. God, your way is holy. Where is such a mighty God as you, God, are? 15. Thou art the God that doeth wonders: thou hast shewed thy power among the nations. 16. Thou hast redeemed thy people mightily, the children of Jacob and Joseph. Sela. 17. The waters saw thee, O God; the waters saw thee, and were afraid, and the deeps raged. 18. The thick clouds poured water; the clouds thundered, and the beams lead therefore. 19. There was thunder in heaven; thy lightnings shone upon the face of the earth; the earth stirred and trembled. 20. Thy way was in the sea, and thy path in great waters; yet thy foot was not felt. 21. Thou leadest thy people as a flock of sheep by Moses and Aaron. The 78th Psalm (^) Narrative of the benefits and punishments of God, shown to his people. 1. An instruction of Assaph. Hear, my people, my law; incline your ears to the speech of my mouth. 2. I will open my mouth for proverbs, and speak out ancient history, 3. Which we have heard, and know, and which our fathers have told us, 4. That we should not refrain from their children that come after, and declare the glory of the LORD, and his power, and the wonders which he hath done. 5. He established a testimony in Jacob, and gave a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach their children, 6. That their seed might learn, and the children that should be born after them, when they were grown up, might tell it also unto their children, 7. That they might put their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, and keep his commandments, 8. And became not as their fathers, an apostate and disobedient sort, whose heart was not steadfast, neither did their spirit hold fast to God; 9. As the children of Ephraim, which had the bow in their hand, fell away in the day of battle. 10. They kept not the covenant of God, neither would they walk in his law, 11. And they forgot his deeds, and his wonders which he had shewed them. 12. In the sight of their fathers he did wonders in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan. 13. And he divided the sea, and let them go through it: and he set up the waters as a wall. 14. He led them by day with a cloud, and by night with a bright fire. 15. He plucked up the rocks of the wilderness, and watered them with water abundantly; 16. And he made rivers to flow out of the rock, and they went down like rivers of water. 17. Yet they continued in sin against him, and provoked the most high to anger in the wilderness; 18. And tempted God in their heart, that they might require meat for their souls; 19. And they spake against God, saying: Yes, God should be able to prepare a table in the wilderness! 20. Behold, he hath smitten the rock, and the waters have flowed, and the rivers have flowed: but how can he give bread, and provide meat for his people? 21. And it came to pass, when the LORD heard it, that he was kindled, and fire was kindled in Jacob, and wrath came upon Israel, 22. That they believed not in God, and hoped not for his help. 23. And he commanded the clouds above, and opened the doors of heaven; 24. And he caused the man to rain upon them to eat, and gave them bread from heaven. 25. They did eat angel's bread: he sent them meat abundantly. 26. He made the east wind to blow under heaven, and by his strength he stirred up the south wind. 27. And rained flesh upon them as dust, and birds as the sand of the sea; 28. And he cast them down under their beds in every place where they dwelt. 29. And they did eat, and were filled: and he made them atone for their lust. 30. When therefore they had repented of their lust, and were yet eating thereof, 31. And the wrath of God came upon them, and slew the chief of them, and smote the best of Israel. 32. But over all this they sinned still more, and believed not his miracles. 33. Therefore he sent them away to die, and they obtained nothing; and they were afflicted all their days. 34. And when he slew them, they sought him, and turned early unto God. 35. And they remembered that GOD is their refuge, and GOD the Most High is their Redeemer, 36. And pretended unto him with their mouth, and lied unto him with their tongue. 37. But their heart was not set on him, neither did they keep his covenant faithfully. 38. But he was merciful, and forgave iniquity, and destroyed it not; and turned away his wrath often, and let not all his anger go. 39. For he remembered that they are flesh, a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again. 40. They provoked him often to anger in the wilderness, and provoked him to indignation in the desert. 41. They tempted GOD again and again and mastered the Holy One in Israel. 42. They remembered not his hand the day that he delivered them from their enemies, 43. As he did his signs in Egypt, and his wonders in the land of Zoan, 44. For he turned their waters into blood, that they could not drink their brooks; 45. For he sent vermin among them, which devoured them, and toads, which corrupted them, 46. And gave her increase to the caterpillars, and her seed to the locusts; 47. When he smote their vines with hail, and their mulberry trees with locks; 48. When he smote their cattle with hail, and their flocks with beams; 49. When he sent evil angels among them in his fierce anger, and made them rage and rage, and did them wrong; 50. For he sent away his wrath, and spared not their souls from death, and caused their cattle to die of the pestilence; 51. When he smote all the firstborn in Egypt, the firstborn in the tabernacles of Harn. 52. And he sent forth his people as sheep, and led them as a flock in the wilderness. 53. And he led them safely, that they feared not: but their enemies covered the sea. 54. And brought them into his holy border, unto this mountain which his right hand hath purchased: 55. And before them the nations, and divided unto them the inheritance, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in those tents. 56. But they tempted and provoked God Most High to anger, and did not keep His testimonies; 57. And they fell back, and despised all things, as their fathers did, and kept not, as a loose bow; 58. And they provoked him to anger with their high places, and provoked him with their idols. 59. And when God heard it, he was inflamed, and rejected Israel greatly, 60. That he made his tabernacle to go to Shiloh, the tabernacle where he dwelt among men; 61. And gave their power into prison, and their glory into the hand of the enemy; 62. And delivered up his people to the sword, and burned upon his inheritance. 63. their young men were eaten up by the fire, and their virgins were left unfreed. 64. Her priests fell by the sword, and were no widows to weep. 65. And he, O LORD, awoke as one that sleepeth, as one that is strong rejoiceth from wine, 66. And smote his enemies from behind, and put them to an everlasting shame. 67. And rejected the tabernacle of Joseph, and chose not the tribe of Ephraim, 68. But mentioned the tribe of Judah, mount Zion, which he loved. 69. And built up his sanctuary on high, as a land that shall stand firm for ever. 70. And he chose David his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds; 71. He took him from the lambs that were suckling, that he should feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance. 72. And he also fed them with all faithfulness, and ruled them with all diligence. The 79th Psalm (^) Prayer against the enemies of truth and their tyranny. 1. A psalm of Assaph. O LORD, the heathen have fallen into thine inheritance, and have polluted thy holy temple, and made Jerusalem a heap of stones. 2. They have given the carcases of thy servants for meat unto the fowls of the air, and the flesh of thy saints unto the beasts of the earth. 3. They shed blood round about Jerusalem like water; and there was none to bury it. 4. We are become a reproach to our neighbours, a mockery and a scorn to them that are round about us. 5. O Lord, how long wilt thou be angry, and let thy zeal burn like fire? 6. Pour out thy wrath upon the heathen that know thee not, and upon the kingdoms that call not upon thy name. 7. For they have devoured Jacob, and laid waste his houses. 8. Remember not our former iniquity: have mercy upon us quickly; for we are become almost thin. 9. help us, O GOD, our helper, for the glory of your name; save us and forgive us our sin for the sake of your name! 10. Why hast thou made the heathen say, Where is their God? Let the vengeance of the blood of thy servants, which is shed, be made known among the heathen before our eyes. 11. Let the groaning of the captives come before thee: according to thy great arm keep the children of death. 12. And sevenfold recompense our neighbours in their bosoms for their reproach, because they have reproached thee, O LORD. 13. And we thy people, and the sheep of thy pasture, give thee thanks for ever, and proclaim thy praise for ever and ever. The 80th Psalm (^) Prayer for the preservation of the spiritual vineyard. 1. a psalm of Assaph from the span roses, to be sung. 2. Thou shepherd of Israel, hear, thou that tendest Joseph as the sheep; appear, thou that sittest over cherubims. 3. Awaken thy power, which is before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, and come to our help. 4. God, comfort us, and make thy face to shine, and we shall be healed. 5. O LORD God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry with the prayer of thy people? 6. Thou feedest them with the bread of tears, and waterest them with a great measure of tears. 7. Thou hast set us at variance with our neighbours, and our enemies have mocked us. 8. O God of hosts, comfort us. Let your face shine, and we shall be healed. 9. Thou hast brought up a vine out of Egypt, and hast cast out the heathen, and planted the same. 10. Thou hast made the way before him, and hast rooted him, and he hath filled the land. 11. mountains are covered with his shadow, and with his branches the cedars of GOD. 12. Thou hast spread forth his plant unto the sea, and his branches unto the waters. 13. Wherefore then hast thou broken down his fence, that all that pass by may break it down? 14. The wild swine have rooted him up, and the wild beasts have destroyed him. 15. O God of hosts, turn thou, look down from heaven, and behold, and seek out this vine. 16. And keep him in the building which thy right hand hath planted, and which thou hast firmly chosen for thyself. 17. Look ye in, and rebuke, that there be an end of burning and tearing. 18. Let thine hand guard the people of thy right hand, and the people whom thou hast chosen for thyself, 19. Then we will not depart from thee. Let us live, and we will call upon thy name. 20. O LORD of hosts, comfort us. Let your face shine, and we shall be healed. The 81st Psalm (^) Admonition how to celebrate the holidays rightly. 1. to sing on the githith: Assaph. 2. Sing joyfully to God, who is our strength; rejoice to the God of Jacob. 3. Take the psalms, and give the timbrels, and the harps, and the psalteries. 4. Blow ye the trumpets in the new moon, in our feast of the leafy bosom. 5. For this is the way of Israel, and the right of the God of Jacob. 6. These things he set forth for a testimony unto Joseph, when they came out of the land of Egypt, and heard a strange language, 7. When I had unburdened her shoulder, and her hands were loosed from the pots. 8. When thou calledst upon me in trouble, I helped thee: and when the weather overtook thee, I hearkened unto thee, and tried thee by the water of the Hader. Sela. 9. Hear, my people, I will testify among you; Israel, you shall hear me, 10. That there be no other god among thee, neither that thou worship any strange god. 11. I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt. Open thy mouth wide, and let me fill it. 12. But my people will not hearken unto my voice, neither will Israel hearken unto mine. 13. So have I left them in the folly of their hearts, to walk after their counsel. 14. If my people would be obedient unto me, and if Israel would walk in my way, 15. I will soon subdue their enemies, and turn mine hand upon their adversaries; 16. And they that hate the LORD shall lack him: but their days shall be for ever. 17. And I would feed them with the best wheat, and satisfy them with honey out of the rock. The 82nd Psalm Of the state and office of the secular authorities. 1. a psalm of Assaph. God stands in the company of God and is judge among the gods. 2. How long will ye judge iniquity, and prefer the person of the wicked? Sela. 3. Render justice to the poor and to the fatherless, and help the needy and the poor to righteousness. 4. the lowly and the poor, and deliver him out of the hand of the wicked. 5. But they suffer them not, nor hearken unto them; they go always in darkness: therefore must all the foundations of the land fall. 6. I have said, Ye are gods, and the children of the Most High; 7. But ye shall die as men, and perish as a tyrant. 8. God, arise and judge the land: for thou art an inheritor over all the nations. The 83rd Psalm (^) Prayer for help against the enemies of the church. 1. a psalm song of Assaph. 2. God, do not be so silent, and do not be so still; God, do not pause so! 3. For, behold, thine enemies rage, and they that hate thee lift up their heads. 4. They make crafty plots against thy people, and counsel against thy hidden ones. 5. Behold, they say, let us cut them off, that they be no nation, that the name of Israel be no more remembered. 6. For they have joined themselves together, and made a covenant against thee: 7. The tents of the Edomites, and of the Ishmaelites, and of the Moabites, and of the Hagarites, 8. The Gebalites, and the Ammonites, and the Amalekites, and the Philistines, with them of Tyre; 9. Asshur also joined them, and help the children of Lot. Sela. 10. Do unto them as unto the Midianites, as unto Sisserah, as unto Jabin by the brook Kishon, 11. Which were consumed at Endor, and became dung upon the earth. 12. Make their princes like Oreb and Zeeb, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunah, 13. Who say, We will take the houses of GOD. 14. God, make them like a whirlpool, like stubble before the wind! 15. As a fire burneth up the forest, and as a flame kindleth the mountains, 16. So pursue them with thy weather, and terrify them with thy tempest. 17. Make their faces full of shame, that they may ask thy name. 18. They shall be ashamed, and shall be afraid more and more, and shall be ashamed, and shall perish. 19. And they shall know that by thy name thou art called Lord alone, and the most high in all the earth. The 84th Psalm (^) Of the church and the preaching ministry. 1. a psalm of the children of Korah, to be sung on the githith. 2. How goodly are thy dwelling places, O LORD of hosts! 3. My soul desireth and longeth for the courts of the LORD: my body and soul rejoice in the living God. 4. For the bird hath found a house, and the swallow her nest, where they lay young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King and my God. 5. Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they praise thee for ever. Sela. 6. Blessed are the men that count thee their strength, and walk after thee with their hearts, 7. Who pass through the vale of tears, and make wells there. And the teachers are adorned with many blessings. 8. They get one victory after another, that it must be seen that the right God is in Zion. 9. O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of Jacob. Sela. 10. O God, our shield, look; behold the kingdom of thine anointed! 11. For one day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I will rather keep the door of my God's house, than dwell long in the tabernacles of the wicked. 12. For the LORD God is a sun and a shield; the LORD giveth grace and honour: he will not fail the good of the upright. 13. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee. The 85th Psalm (^) Prayer for God's help and welfare of all estates. 1. a psalm of the children of Korah, to be sung. 2. O LORD, which hast been merciful unto thy land in time past, and hast redeemed the captives of Jacob; 3. Who hast formerly forgiven the iniquity of thy people, and covered all their sin, Sela; 4. Thou that didst lift up all thy wrath before, and didst turn away from the fierceness of thine anger; 5. Comfort us, O GOD our Saviour, and remove your displeasure from us. 6. Wilt thou then be angry with us for ever, and let thy wrath go for ever and ever? 7. Wilt thou not then restore us, that thy people may rejoice over thee? 8. O Lord, show us your mercy and help us! 9. Oh that I should hear that God the LORD speaketh, that he should promise peace unto his people and to his saints, that they should not enter into folly! 10. But his help is near unto them that fear him, that glory may dwell in our land; 11. That goodness and faithfulness meet together, righteousness and peace kiss each other; 12. That faithfulness may grow upon the earth, and righteousness look down from heaven; 13. That the LORD also may do us good, that our land may yield her increase; 14. That righteousness nevertheless may abide before him, and walk in the sword. The 86th Psalm (^) David's different pleas. 1. A prayer of David. O Lord, incline thine ears, and hear me; for I am wretched and poor. 2. Keep my soul: for I am holy. Help, O my God, thy servant, who trusteth in thee. 3. Lord, have mercy upon me: for I cry unto thee daily. 4. Make glad the soul of thy servant: for after thee, O LORD, do I desire. 5. For thou, O LORD, art good and gracious, of great kindness unto all them that call upon thee. 6. Hear, O LORD, my prayer, and hearken unto the voice of my supplications. 7. In trouble I call upon thee; thou wilt hear me. 8. O LORD, there is none like thee among the gods, neither is there any that can do like thee. 9. All the nations which thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O LORD, and shall honour thy name, 10. That thou art so great, and doest wonders, and art alone GOD. 11. Thy way, O LORD, that I may walk in thy truth: keep my heart in that which is one, that I may fear thy name. 12. I thank thee, O LORD my God, with all my heart; and I honor thy name for ever. 13. For great is thy lovingkindness toward me, and thou hast delivered my soul from the depths of hell. 14. O God, the proud are set against me, and the company of the oppressors are after my soul, and have not thee before their eyes. 15. But thou, O LORD God, art merciful and gracious, patient, and of great kindness and faithfulness. 16. Turn thee unto me, be gracious unto me: strengthen thy servant with thy might, and help the son of thy handmaid. 17. Do a sign unto me, that it may be well with me, that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed, that thou standest by me, O LORD, and comfortest me. The 87th Psalm (^) Of the Christian Church, under the model of the earthly Jerusalem. 1. a psalm song of the children of Korah. It is firmly established on the holy mountains. 2. The LORD loveth the gates of Zion above all the dwellings of Jacob. 3. Glorious things are preached in thee, O city of God. Sela. 4. I will preach unto Rahab and Babylon, that they may know me. Behold, the Philistines and the Tyrians and the Moors are born there. 5. And it shall be said in Zion, that all manner of men shall be born therein, and that he that is most high shall build them. 6. The LORD shall preach in divers tongues, that some of them also shall be born there. Sela. 7. And the singers, as at the round dance, shall all sing in thee one by one. The 88th Psalm (^) Prayer in severe temptation. 1. A psalm-song of the children of Korah, to be sung, of the infirmities of the wretched. An instruction of Heman the Ezrahite. 2. O LORD God, my Saviour, I cry before thee day and night. 3. Let my prayer come before thee; incline thine ear unto my cry. 4. For my soul is full of sorrow, and my life is nigh unto hell. 5. I am esteemed like unto them that go down to hell: I am like a man that hath no help. 6. I lie forsaken among the dead, as the slain that lie in the grave, of whom thou rememberest no more, and they are separated from thy hand. 7. Thou hast laid me down in the pit, in darkness, and in the deep. 8. thy wrath oppresseth me, and presseth me with all thy floods. Sela. 9. Thou hast put my friends far from me: thou hast made me an abomination unto them. I lie captive, and cannot get along. 10. My form is pitiful with misery. O Lord, I call upon thee daily; I stretch forth my hands unto thee. 11. Wilt thou then do wonders among the dead, or shall the dead arise and thank thee? Sela. 12. Shall thy goodness be told in graves, and thy faithfulness in destruction? 13. May thy wonders be known in darkness, or thy righteousness in the land that is not remembered? 14. But I cry unto thee, O LORD; and my prayer cometh early before thee, 15. Why hast thou, O LORD, cast off my soul, and hid thy face from me? 16. I am wretched and faint, that I am so cast down; and I suffer thy terror, that I am almost consumed. 17. Thy wrath is upon me; Thy terror oppresseth me. They compass me about daily as waters, And compass me about together. 19. Thou makest my friends, and my neighbours, and my kinsmen, to depart from me, because of this affliction. The 89th Psalm (^) Of the Messiah and his kingdom. 1. a teaching of Ethan the Esrahite. 2. I will sing of the grace of the LORD for ever, and declare his truth with my mouth for ever, 3. Saying thus, That an everlasting mercy shall spring up, and thou shalt keep thy truth faithfully in heaven. 4. I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn to David my servant: 5. I will provide seed for thee for ever, and will build thy throne for ever. Sela. 6. And the heavens, O Lord, shall praise thy wonders, and thy truth in the congregation of the saints. 7. For who in the clouds is like unto the LORD, and is like unto the LORD among the children of the gods? 8. God is almost mighty in the gathering of the saints and wonderful over all who are around Him. 9. O LORD God of hosts, who is like thee, a mighty God? And thy truth is round about thee. 10. Thou hast dominion over the boisterous sea; thou stillest the waves thereof when they rise. 11. Thou smitest Rahab to death; thou scatterest thine enemies with thy strong arm. 12. Heaven and earth are thine; thou hast founded the ground, and all that is therein. 13. The midnight and the noonday hast thou made; Tabor and Hermon exult in thy name. 14. Thou hast a mighty arm; strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand. 15. Righteousness and judgment are the stronghold of thy throne: mercy and truth are before thy face. 16. Blessed are the people that rejoice. O LORD, they shall walk in the light of thy countenance. 17. They shall rejoice daily over thy name, and be glorious in thy righteousness. 18. For thou art the glory of their strength, and by thy grace thou shalt exalt our horn. 19. For the LORD is our shield, and the Holy One of Israel is our King. 20. At that time thou spakest in vision unto thy holy one, saying: I have raised up a hero to help; I have raised up a chosen one from among the people; 21. I have found my servant David, I have anointed him with my holy oil. 22. My hand shall sustain him, and my arm shall strengthen him. 23. Enemies shall not overcome him, and the unrighteous shall not subdue him, 24. But I will smite his adversaries before him, and them that hate him will I afflict. 25. But my truth and my mercy shall be with him, and his horn shall be exalted in my name. 26. I will put his hand into the sea, and his right hand into the waters. 27. And he shall call me thus, Thou art my Father, my God, and my stronghold, which helpeth me. 28. And I will make him the first son, the chiefest among the kings of the earth. 29. I will keep my mercy for him for ever, and my covenant shall be steadfast unto him. 30. I will give him seed for ever, and will keep his throne all the days of heaven. 31. But where his children forsake my law, and walk not in my statutes, 32. If they profane my statutes, and keep not my commandments, 33. I will punish their sin with the rod, and their iniquity with plagues. 34. But I will not turn away my mercy from him, neither will I fail in my truth. 35. I will not profane my covenant, nor change that which hath gone out of my mouth. 36. I have sworn once by my holiness, I will not lie unto David. 37. His seed shall be for ever, and his throne before me as the sun; 38. As the moon he shall be preserved for ever, and as the witness in the clouds he shall be sure. Sela. 39. But now thou hast transgressed, and forsaken, and been wroth with thine anointed. 40. Thou destroyest thy servant's covenant, and troddest his crown to the ground. 41. Thou shalt break down all his walls, and shalt cause his strongholds to be broken down. 42. All that pass by rob him: he is become a mockery to his neighbours. 43. Thou exaltest the right hand of his adversaries, and rejoicest all his enemies. 44. Thou hast also taken away the power of his sword, and hast not let him prevail in the battle. 45. you destroy his purity and weaken his chair to the ground. 46. thou shortenest the time of his youth, and coverest him with scorn. Sela. 47. O LORD, how long wilt thou hide thyself, and let thy wrath burn like fire? 48. Remember how short my life is! Why would you have created all men in vain? 49. Where is there any that liveth, and seeth not death, to deliver his soul out of the hand of hell? Sela. 50. O LORD, where is thy former mercy, which thou swarest unto David in thy truth? 51. Remember, O LORD, the reproach of thy servants, which I bear in my bosom of so many nations of all, 52. That thine enemies, O LORD, may revile thee, that they may revile the footsteps of thine anointed. 53. Be the LORD forever! Amen, amen. The 90th Psalm (^) Of the frailty of human life. 1. a prayer of Moses, the man of God. 2. O LORD God, you are our refuge for ever and ever. Before the mountains were created, and the earth and the world, you are, O God, from everlasting to everlasting, 3. who let men die, and said, Come again, children of men. 4. For a thousand years are before thee as the day that was yesterday, and as a night watch. 5. Thou hast caused them to pass away like a river, and they are as a sleep, as grass that fadeth quickly, 6. Which flourisheth early, and withereth soon, and is cut down in the evening, and withereth. 7. This is thy wrath, that we are consumed: and thy fury, that we are consumed suddenly. 8. For thou hast set our iniquity before thee, our unconcealed sin in the light of thy countenance. 9. Therefore all our days are consumed in thine anger: we have spent our years as a tale. 10. Our life shall be seventy years; and if it come to pass, it shall be fourscore years: and if it have been good, it shall have been toil and trouble: for it shall pass quickly, as if we flew away. 11. And who shall believe that thou art angry? and who shall be afraid of thy wrath? 12. Teach us to remember that we must die, that we may be wise. 13. O Lord, turn again to us, and be gracious unto thy servants. 14. Fill us early with thy grace, and we will glory and be glad all our days. 15. Now make us glad again, after that thou hast afflicted us so long, after that we have suffered misfortunes so long. 16. Show thy servants thy works, and thy glory to their children. 17. And the LORD our God be kind unto us, and promote the work of our hands among us; yea, promote the work of our hands. The 91st Psalm, (^) Comfort in Dying. 1. He who sits under the umbrella of the Most High and abides under the shadow of the Almighty, 2. Who saith unto the LORD, My confidence and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. 3. For he delivereth me from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. 4. He shall cover thee with his wings, and thy confidence shall be under his wings. His truth is shield and screen, 5. That thou shouldest not be afraid of the terror of the night, of the arrows that fly by day, 6. From the pestilence that creepeth in darkness, from the pestilence that wasteth in the south. 7. Though a thousand fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand, it shall not come upon thee. 8. Yea, thou shalt see thy lust with thine eyes, and shalt see it rewarded unto the wicked. 9. For the LORD is thy confidence, the most High is thy refuge. 10. No evil shall befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy tabernacle. 11. For he hath commanded his angels concerning thee, to keep thee in all thy ways, 12. That they bear thee up in their hands, and that thou dash not thy foot against a stone. 13. Thou shalt walk upon the lions and the vipers, and tread upon the young lions and dragons. 14. He desireth me, and I will help him: he knoweth my name, and I will defend him; 15. If he call upon me, I will hear him. I am with him in trouble; I will pluck him out, and make him honourable. 16. I will satisfy him with long life, and show him my salvation. The 92nd Psalm (^) God is to be praised, and why? 1. a psalm song on the Sabbath day. 2. This is a good thing, to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O thou most High. 3. proclaim thy grace in the morning, and thy truth at night, 4. on the ten strings and psaltery, with playing on the harp. 5. For, O LORD, thou hast made me to sing joyfully of thy works, and I have glorified the works of thy hands. 6. O Lord, how great are thy works! Thy thoughts are so very deep. 7. A foolish man believeth not, and a fool regardeth not these things. 8. The wicked flourish as the grass, and the transgressors all flourish, until they be destroyed for ever and ever. 9. But thou, O LORD, art the most high, and abidest for ever. 10. For, lo, thine enemies, O LORD, behold, thine enemies shall perish; and all evildoers must be scattered. 11. But my horn shall be exalted as the horn of a unicorn, and shall be anointed with fresh oil. 12. And mine eye shall see his delight in mine enemies, and mine ear shall hear his delight in the wicked that set themselves against me. 13. The righteous shall be green as a palm tree; he shall grow as a cedar in Lebanon. 14. They that are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. 15. And though they grow old alike, yet they shall flourish, and be fruitful and fresh, 16. That they may proclaim that the LORD is my stronghold, and that there is no wrong in him. The 93rd Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ and his kingdom. 1. The LORD is king, and gloriously adorned: the LORD is adorned, and hath begun a kingdom as far as the earth is, and hath prepared it to abide. 2. From this time thy throne is established: thou art for ever. 3. O Lord, the rivers of waters arise, the rivers of waters lift up their roar, the rivers of waters lift up the waves. 4. The waves of the sea are great, and roar exceedingly: but the LORD is greater in the height. 5. Thy word is a right doctrine. Holiness is the ornament of thy house for ever. The 94th Psalm (^) Prayer against the enemies of the church. 1. O Lord God, who is vengeance, God, who is vengeance, appear! 2. Arise, thou judge of the world: recompense to the proud their due. 3. O LORD, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the ungodly boast? 4. And speak so defiantly, and all evildoers boast so? 5. O LORD, they smite thy people, and afflict thine inheritance. 6. widows and strangers strangle them, and kill the fatherless ( 7. Saying, The LORD seeth it not, and the God of Jacob regardeth it not. 8. Mark you, ye fools of the people, and ye fools, when will ye be wise? 9. He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? He that made the eye, shall he not see? 10. He that chasteneth the heathen, shall he not chasten? he that teacheth men what they know. 11. But the LORD knoweth the thoughts of men, that they are vain. 12. Blessed is he whom thou, O LORD, chastenest, and teachest by thy law, 13. That he may have patience in the day of evil, until the pit be prepared for the wicked. 14. For the LORD will not cast off his people, nor forsake his inheritance. 15. For the law must be the law, and all godly hearts will fall unto it. 16. Who shall stand with me against the wicked? Who shall stand with me against the workers of iniquity? 17. If the LORD help me not, my soul shall lie in silence. 18. And I said, My foot stumbled; but thy mercy, O LORD, kept me. 19. I had many sorrows in my heart: but thy consolations made my soul glad. 20. Thou shalt never be one with the pernicious chair, which interpreteth the law falsely. 21. They prepare themselves against the soul of the righteous, and condemn innocent blood. 22. But the LORD is my refuge; my God is the stronghold of my confidence. 23. And he shall recompense their iniquity, and shall destroy them for their wickedness: the LORD our God shall destroy them. The 95th Psalm (^) The Messiah is to be thanked and obeyed. 1. Come ye near, and let us rejoice in the LORD, and shout for joy to the stronghold of our salvation. 2. Let us come before his face with thanksgiving, and with psalms let us shout for him. 3. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. 4. For in his hand is that which the earth bringeth forth; and the high places of the mountains are his also. 5. For his is the sea, and he hath made it; and his hands have prepared the dry land. 6. Come, let us worship, and kneel, and fall down before the LORD that made us. 7. For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. This day, if ye hear his voice, 8. Then harden not your heart, as it was in Meribah, as it was in Massa in the wilderness, 9. When your fathers tempted me, they felt and saw my work, 10. That I had forty years' trouble with this people, saying, They are men whose hearts always desire the wrong way, and will not learn my ways; 11. That I sware in mine anger, They shall not come into my rest. The 96th Psalm (^) Of the new song of the holy gospel. 1. Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! 2. Sing unto the LORD, and praise his name; preach one day upon another his salvation. 3. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all nations. 4. For the LORD is great and greatly to be praised, marvellous above all gods. 5. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD hath made heaven. 6. It is glorious and marvellous before him; it is mighty and glorious in his sanctuary. 7. O ye nations, bring unto the LORD, bring unto the LORD glory and power. 8. Bring ye hither unto the LORD the glory of his name; bring ye gifts, and come into his courts. 9. To the LORD in holy ornaments; let all the earth fear him. 10. Say among the heathen that the LORD is king, and hath prepared his kingdom, as far as the earth is, to abide in it, and judgeth the nations aright. 11. Be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that is therein; 12. Let the field be glad, and all that is therein: and let all the trees of the forest praise. 13. Before the LORD: for he cometh, because he cometh to judge the earth. He shall judge the earth with righteousness, and the nations with his truth. The 97th Psalm (^) Of Christo and his kingdom. 1. The LORD is king: let the earth rejoice, and let the isles be glad, as many as are therein. 2. Clouds and darkness are round about him. Righteousness and judgment is the stronghold of his throne: 3. Fire goeth before him, and kindleth his enemies round about. 4. His lightnings shall shine upon the ground: the earth shall see, and be afraid. 5. Mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the ruler of all the earth. 6. the heavens declare his righteousness, and all nations behold his glory. 7. Let all them be ashamed that serve images, and that boast of idols. Worship him, all gods! 8. Zion heareth, and is glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoice, O LORD, in thy government. 9. For thou, O LORD, art the most high in all the earth: thou art greatly exalted above all gods. 10. Ye that love the LORD, hate evil. The LORD preserveth the souls of his saints: from the hand of the wicked shall he deliver them. 11. The light must always dawn upon the righteous, and joy upon the devout heart. 12. Ye righteous, rejoice in the LORD; and give thanks unto him, and glorify his holiness. The 98th Psalm (^) Exhortation to the praise of Christ. 1. A psalm. Sing unto the LORD a new song: for he doeth wonders. He triumpheth with his right hand, and with his holy arm. 2. The LORD hath declared his salvation, and hath shewed his righteousness before the nations. 3. He remembereth his mercy and truth unto the house of Israel. The ends of the earth behold the salvation of our God. 4. Rejoice unto the LORD, all the earth: sing, praise, and extol. 5. Praise the LORD with harps, with harps, and with psalms; 6. With trumpets and trumpets shout for joy before the Lord the King. 7. The sea roareth, and that which is therein, the ground, and they that dwell therein. 8. Let the rivers rejoice, and let all the mountains be glad. 9. Before the LORD: for he cometh to judge the earth. He shall judge the earth with righteousness, and the nations with judgment. The 99th Psalm (^) Of the nature of Christ's kingdom. 1. The LORD is king, therefore the nations rage: he sitteth upon cherubims, therefore the world stirs. 2. The LORD is great in Zion, and high above all nations. 3. thanks be unto thy great and marvellous name, which is holy. 4. In the kingdom of this king is justice loved. Thou givest godliness; thou establishest judgment and righteousness in Jacob. 5. Exalt the LORD our God, worship at his footstool: for he is holy. 6. Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name: they cried unto the LORD, and he hearkened unto them. 7. He spake unto them by a pillar of cloud. They kept his testimonies and commandments which he gave them. 8. O LORD, thou art our God, thou hast heard them; thou, O God, hast forgiven them, and hast punished their doings: 9. Exalt the LORD our God, and worship in his holy mountain: for the LORD our God is holy: The 100th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's benefits. 1. a psalm of thanksgiving. Rejoice in the Lord, all the earth! 2. Serve the LORD with gladness; come before his face with joy. 3. Know ye that the LORD is GOD: he hath made us, and not we ourselves, his people, and sheep of his pasture. 4. Enter ye into his gates with thanksgiving, into his courts with praise: give thanks unto him, praise his name. 5. For the LORD is good, and his mercy endureth for ever, and his truth for ever. The 101st Psalm (^) David's Regency Mirror. 1. A psalm of David. Of grace and judgment will I sing, and praise thee, O LORD. 2. I will deal carefully and truly with them that are mine, and walk faithfully in my house. 3. I take no evil thing for myself. I hate the transgressor and will not let him stay with me. 4. A wicked heart must depart from me: I will not suffer the wicked. 5. He that slandereth his neighbour in secret, him will I destroy. I do not like him who is proud and bold. 6. Mine eyes are upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: and I delight to have godly servants. 7. I will not keep men in my house: liars do not prosper with me. 8. Early will I destroy all the wicked of the land, and cut off all the transgressors from the city of the LORD. The 102nd Psalm (^) Prayer of repentance for souls who are challenged and hungry for mercy. 1. A prayer of the wretched, when he is distressed, and poureth out his complaint before the Lord. 2. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come unto thee. 3. Hide not thy face from me in trouble: incline thine ear unto me: when I call upon thee, hear me quickly. 4. For my days are passed away like smoke, and my bones are burned up like a fire. 5. My heart is smitten, and withered like grass, that I also forget to eat my bread. 6. my bones cling to my flesh with weeping and groaning. 7. I am like a bittern in the wilderness; I am like an owl in the disturbed places. 8. I wake up and I am like a lonely bird on the roof. 9. Mine enemies reproach me daily; and they that mock me swear by me. 10. For I eat ashes as bread, and mix my drink with wines. 11. From thy wrath and from thy anger, because thou hast lifted me up, and cast me down to the ground. 12. My days are gone as a shadow; and I wither as grass. 13. But thou, O LORD, shalt endure for ever, and thy memorial for ever. 14. Arise, and have mercy on Zion: for the time is come for thee to have mercy upon her, and the hour is come. 15. For thy servants would gladly build her, and would gladly see her stones and her lime dressed; 16. That the heathen may fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth thy glory; 17. That the LORD should build Zion, and appear in his glory. 18. He turneth to the prayer of the forsaken, and spurneth not their prayer. 19. Let this be written in the generations to come: and the people that shall be created shall praise the LORD. 20. For he looketh from his holy height, and the LORD looketh from heaven to earth, 21. That he may hear the groaning of the prisoner, and loose the children of death, 22. That they might preach the name of the LORD in Zion, and his praise in Jerusalem, 23. When the nations shall come together, and the kingdoms to serve the LORD. 24. He hath humbled my strength in the way; he hath shortened my days. 25. I say: My God, do not take me away in the half of my days! Your years shall last for and for. 26. Thou hast founded the earth before, and the heavens are the work of thy hands. 27. They will pass away, but you will remain. They shall all perish like a garment; they shall be changed like a garment, when thou shalt change them. 28. But thou remainest as thou art, and thy years have no end. 29. The children of thy servants shall abide, and their seed shall flourish before thee. The 103rd Psalm (^) Let God's goodness be praised. 1. a psalm of David. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and that which is within me, his holy name. 2. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not the good things which he hath done thee, 3. Who forgiveth all thy sins, and healeth all thine infirmities, 4. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction, who crowneth thee with grace and mercy, 5. Who maketh thy mouth to rejoice, and thou shalt be young again as the eagle. 6. The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment unto all that are wronged. 7. He hath made known his ways unto Moses, and his doings unto the children of Israel. 8. Merciful and gracious is the LORD, patient, and of great kindness. 9. He shall not always be angry, nor hold wrath for ever. 10. He dealeth not with us according to our sins, neither recompenseth us according to our iniquities. 11. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so he hath mercy on them that fear him. 12. As far as the morning is from the evening, let our transgression be from us. 13. As a father hath mercy on his children, so hath the LORD mercy on them that fear him. 14. For he knoweth what manner of things we are: he remembereth that we are dust. 15. A man in his life is as grass; he flourisheth as a flower of the field. 16. When the wind passeth over it, it is no more, neither knoweth it any more the place thereof. 17. But the mercy of the LORD endureth for ever upon them that fear him, and his righteousness upon the children of children. 18. In them that keep his covenant, and remember his commandments, to do them. 19. The LORD hath prepared his throne in heaven, and his kingdom ruleth over all. 20. Praise ye the LORD, O ye his angels, ye mighty men of valour, which do his commandment, that the voice of his word may be heard. 21. Praise ye the LORD, all ye his hosts, his servants, which do his will. 22. Praise the LORD, all his works, in all places of his dominion! Praise the LORD, my soul! The 104th Psalm (^) Praise God from the Book of Nature. 1. Praise the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very glorious; thou art beautifully and splendidly adorned. 2. Light is thy garment which thou hast put on. You spread out the sky like a carpet; 3. thou archest it above with water; thou goest upon the clouds as upon a chariot, and walkest upon the wings of the wind. 4. Who makest thine angels winds, and thy servants flames of fire; 5. Thou that layest the foundation of the earth upon his ground, that it may abide for ever and ever. 6. With the deep thou coverest it as with a garment, and waters stand upon the mountains. 7. But from thy rebuke they flee, from thy thunder they go away. 8. The mountains go up, and the broad places come down to the place which thou hast founded for them. 9. you have set a boundary, they do not come over it, and do not have to cover the ground again. 10. Thou hast caused wells to spring up in the valleys, and the waters to flow between the mountains, 11. That all the beasts of the field may drink, and that the beasts of the field may quench their thirst. 12. In the same sit the birds of the air, and sing under the branches. 13. Thou dost wet the mountains from above; thou makest the land full of fruit which thou makest. 14. Thou hast caused grass to grow for cattle, and seed for the use of men, to bring forth bread out of the ground, 15. And that the wine may gladden the heart of man, and that his form may be made beautiful with oil, and that the bread may strengthen the heart of man; 16. The trees of the LORD are full of sap, the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted. 17. There the birds make their nests, and the herons dwell in the fir trees. 18. the high mountains are the refuge of the chamois, and the clefts of the rabbits. 19. Thou makest the moon to divide the year after; the sun knoweth her going down. 20. Thou makest darkness, and night cometh; and all the wild beasts stir up, 21. The young lions that roar after the prey, and seek their meat from GOD. 22. But when the sun riseth, they lift themselves up, and lie down in their holes. 23. So man goeth forth to his work, and to his labour, until the even. 24. O LORD, how great and abundant are thy works! Thou hast wisely arranged them all, and the earth is full of thy goods. 25. The sea, which is so great and wide, teemeth without number, both beasts great and small. 26. There go the ships: there are whales which thou hast made to jest within. 27. All things wait for thee, that thou mayest give them meat in his season. 28. When thou givest unto them, they gather: when thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good. 29. When thou hidest thy face, they are afraid; when thou takest away their breath, they perish, and return to dust. 30. Thou sendest forth thy breath, and they are made; and thou renewest the form of the earth. 31. The glory of the LORD is everlasting: the LORD is well pleased with his works. 32. He looketh upon the earth, and it quaketh: he toucheth the mountains, and they smoke. 33. I will sing unto the LORD all the days of my life, and praise my God as long as I live. 34. Let my speech please him. I rejoice in the LORD. 35. Let there be an end of sinners on earth, and let the wicked be no more! Praise the Lord, my soul! Hallelujah! The 105th Psalm (^) Short chronicle from Abraham to Joshua. 1. Give thanks unto the LORD, and preach his name; declare his doings among the nations; 2. Sing of him, and praise him; speak of all his wonders; 3. Praise his holy name; let the heart of them that seek the LORD rejoice. 4. Inquire ye of the LORD, and of his power; seek his face always. 5. Remember his wondrous works which he hath done, his miracles, and his word, 6. You, the seed of Abraham his servant, you children of Jacob, his chosen ones! 7. He is the LORD our God: he judgeth in all the earth. 8. He remembereth his covenant for ever, the word which he promised for many thousands to come and to go. 9. Which he made with Abraham, and of the oath with Isaac, 10. And established the same Jacob for a law, and Israel for an everlasting covenant. 11. And said, Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of your inheritance, 12. For they were few and poor, and strangers within. 13. And they went from nation to nation, from kingdom to kingdom. 14. He suffered no man to harm them, and punished kings for their sakes. 15. do not touch my anointed, and do not harm my prophets. 16. And he caused a famine to come into the land, and took away all the supply of bread. 17. And he sent a man before them; and Joseph was sold for a servant. 18. They constrained his feet in the stocks, and his body was made to lie in irons, 19. Till his word came, and the speech of the LORD purified him. 20. And the king sent, and loosed him: and the lord of nations loosed him. 21. And he made him lord of his house, and ruler over all his goods, 22. That he might instruct his princes after his manner, and teach his ancients wisdom. 23. And Israel went into Egypt, and Jacob was a stranger in the land of Ham. 24. And he increased his people greatly, and made them mightier than their enemies. 25. He turned away their hearts, so that they were angry with his people, and thought to subdue his servants with guile. 26. And he sent his servant Moses, Aaron, whom he had chosen. 27. These did his signs among them, and his wonders in the land of Ham. 28. He caused darkness to come, and made it dark; and were not disobedient to his words. 29. He turned their waters into blood, and killed their fish. 30. Their land swarmed with toads out of the chambers of their kings. 31. He said, There came vermin, lice, in all their borders. 32. He gave them hail for rain, flames of fire in their land; 33. And he smote their vines and their fig trees, and brake the trees within their borders. 34. And he said, There came locusts and beetles without number. 35. And they did eat all the grass of their land, and did eat the fruit of their field. 36. And smote all the firstborn in Egypt, all their firstborn heirs. 37. And he brought them out with silver and gold; and there was not an infirm man among their tribes. 38. And Egypt was glad that they went out: for their fear was fallen upon them. 39. And he spread out a cloud for a covering, and a fire to shine by night. 40. And they asked, and he sent for quails; and he filled them with bread from heaven. 41. And he opened the rock, and waters flowed out, and streams ran in the dry wilderness. 42. For he remembered his holy word, spoken unto Abraham his servant. 43. So he brought forth his people with joy, and his elect with gladness. 44. And gave them the lands of the heathen, that they might take the goods of the nations. 45. That they might keep his statutes, and keep his judgments. Hallelujah! The 106th Psalm (^) God's good deeds shown to the Israelites. Great punishment of ingratitude. 1. Hallelujah! Give thanks unto the LORD: for he is good; and his mercy endureth for ever. 2. Who can utter the great deeds of the LORD, and praise all his praiseworthy works? 3. Blessed are they that keep the commandment, and do right continually. 4. Remember me, O LORD, according to the mercy which thou hast promised thy people: show us thy help, 5. That we may see the welfare of thine elect, and rejoice that it is well with thy people, and glory in thine inheritance. 6. We have sinned with our fathers; we have transgressed, we have been ungodly. 7. Our fathers in Egypt would not understand thy wonders; they remembered not thy great goodness, and were disobedient at the sea, even at the Red sea. 8. And he helped them for his name's sake, to shew forth his power. 9. And he rebuked the Red sea, and it was dry: and he led them through the deep as through a wilderness; 10. And delivered them out of the hand of him that hated them, and delivered them out of the hand of the enemy. 11. And the waters drowned their adversaries, that there remained not one. 12. And they believed his words, and sang his praises. 13. But they soon forgot his works; they waited not for his counsel. 14. And they lusted in the wilderness, and tempted GOD in the desert. 15. And he gave them their request, and sent them enough until they were disgusted with it. 16. And they rebelled against Moses in the camp, and against Aaron the holy one of the LORD. 17. And the earth arose, and swallowed up Dathan, and covered the company of Abiram. 18. And fire was kindled among their company; and the flame burned up the wicked. 19. And they made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the graven image; 20. And changed their glory into the likeness of an ox eating grass. 21. They forgot God their Saviour, who had done so great things in Egypt, 22. wonders in the land of Ham, and terrible works at the Red sea. 23. And he said, He would destroy them, except Moses his elect had stayed the breach, to turn away his fury, that he might not destroy them. 24. And they despised the dear land; they believed not his word. 25. And murmured in their tents; they hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD. 26. And he lifted up his hand against them, to smite them in the wilderness. 27. And cast their seed among the heathen, and scattered them abroad. 28. And they clave unto Baal the blood of their sons, and the blood of their daughters, which they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan; and the land was stained with blood; 29. And they provoked him to anger with their doings; and the plague was upon them. 30. And he came to Phinehas, and settled the matter, and the plague was stayed, 31. And it was counted unto him for righteousness for ever and ever. 32. And they provoked him to anger at the water of Hader; and they afflicted Moses. 33. For they grieved his heart, so that some words escaped from him. 34. Neither did they destroy the nations, as the LORD had commanded them, 35. But they mingled with the heathen, and learned the works thereof, 36. And served their idols, which were an offence unto them. 37. And they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils. 38. And they shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and of their daughters, which they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan, so that the land was stained with blood; 39. And defiled themselves with their works, and fornicated with their doings. 40. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against his people, and abhorred his inheritance. 41. And delivered them into the hand of the heathen, that they might have dominion over them which were evil to them. 42. And their enemies affrighted them, and were humbled under their hands. 43. He saved them many times: but they provoked him to anger with their pride, and became few because of their iniquity. 44. And he looked upon their affliction, when he heard their lamentation, 45. And remembered his covenant made with them. And repented him according to his great goodness. 46. And made them come to mercy before all them that had taken them captives. 47. Help us, O LORD our God, and bring us together from among the nations, that we may give thanks to thy holy name, and praise thy praise. 48. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel for ever and ever: and let all the people say, Amen, alleluia. The 107th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving to God for salvation from many hardships. 1. Give thanks unto the LORD: for he is good; and his mercy endureth for ever. 2. Say ye, ye that are redeemed by the LORD, whom he hath redeemed out of trouble. 3. And whom he hath gathered together out of the countries of the rising, and of the going down, and of the north, and of the sea; 4. Who wandered in the wilderness by the way of no man, and found no city to dwell in, 5. hungry and thirsty, and their soul languisheth; 6. And they cried unto the LORD in their affliction, and he delivered them out of their fears. 7. And led them in a right way, that they might go to the city where they dwelt: 8. They shall give thanks unto the LORD for his lovingkindness, and for his wondrous works which he doeth for the children of men, 9. To satisfy the thirsty soul, and to fill the hungry soul with good things. 10. Who were made to sit in darkness and in vanity, bound in constraint and in iron, 11. Because they had disobeyed the commandments of God, and had profaned the law of the Most High; 12. Therefore their heart was troubled with misery, because they lay there, and no man helped them; 13. And they cried unto the LORD in their affliction, and he saved them out of their fears. 14. And brought them out of darkness and gloom, and brake their bands: 15. They shall give thanks unto the LORD for his lovingkindness, and for his wondrous works which he doeth for the children of men, 16. To break the doors of brass, and to break the bars of iron. 17. The fools that were afflicted for their transgression, and for their sin, 18. And they were disgusted with all meat, and were sick unto death; 19. And they cried unto the LORD in their affliction, and he saved them out of their fears; 20. And he sent his word, and healed them, and saved them, that they died not: 21. They shall give thanks unto the LORD for his lovingkindness, and for his wondrous works which he doeth for the children of men, 22. and offer thanksgiving, and tell his works with gladness. 23. They that sailed in ships upon the sea, and did their trade in great waters; 24. Who have known the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the sea, 25. When he spake, and stirred up a tempest that lifted up the waves, 26. And they went up to heaven, and entered into the bottomless pit, and their souls were troubled for fear, 27. And they staggered and staggered like a drunken man, and knew not what to do; 28. And they cried unto the LORD in their affliction, and he brought them out of their fears. 29. And quieted the tempest, that the waves were subdued, 30. And they were glad when it was made quiet, and he brought them to land according to their desire: 31. They shall give thanks unto the LORD for his goodness, and for his wondrous works which he doeth for the children of men, 32. And glorify him among the congregation, and praise him among the ancients. 33. Those whose brooks were dried up, and whose fountains were dried up, 34. That a fruitful land yielded nothing because of the wickedness of them that dwelt therein; 35. And, again, he made the dry land full of water, and in the dry land springs of water; 36. And hath set the hungry to prepare a city to dwell in, 37. and sow the fields, and plant the vineyards, and reap the fruit thereof year by year; 38. And he blessed them, and they multiplied almost, and gave them much cattle; 39. Those who were oppressed and weakened by the evil one who had compelled and pressed upon them, 40. When contempt was heaped upon the princes, and all things were in error and desolate; 41. And he protected the poor from misery, and multiplied his seed as a flock. 42. The righteous shall see and rejoice: and all wickedness shall be shut up. 43. Who is wise, and keepeth these things? Then shall they know how many benefits the LORD hath bestowed. The 108th Psalm (^) David's thanksgiving and prayer for installation into the kingdom. 1. a psalm song of David. 2. God, I am in earnest; I will sing and write, my glory also. Come, psalteries and harps! I will be up early. 4. I will give thee thanks, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praise unto thee among the people. 5. For thy mercy reacheth as far as the heavens, and thy truth as far as the clouds go. 6. Exalt yourself, O God, above the heavens, and your glory above all the earth, 7. That thy dear friends may be done. Help with thy right hand, and hear me. 8. God speaketh in his sanctuary: I am glad, and will divide Shechem, and measure the valley of Shushoth. 9. Gilead is mine, Manasseh also is mine, and Ephraim is the power of my head; Judah is my prince, 10. Moab is my washing-pot; I will stretch out my shoe upon Edom; upon the Philistines will I exult. 11. Who will lead me into a strong city? Who will lead me to Edom? 12. Wilt thou not do it, O God, which hast cast us off, and wilt thou not go forth, O God, with our host? 13. give us help in trouble, for the help of men is of no avail. 14. With God we will do deeds. He will trample under our enemies. The 109th Psalm (^) Prophecy of Judas and the Jews committing unfaithfulness to Christ, and their curse. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. God, my glory, do not be silent! 2. For they have opened their ungodly and false mouths against me, and have spoken against me with a false tongue. 3. And they speak evil against me in every place, and fight against me without a cause. 4. For that I love them, they are against me: but I pray. 5. they prove me evil for good, and hate for love. 6. Set the wicked over him; and let Satan stand at his right hand. 7. Whosoever shall be taught the same, that his life must be ungodly, and his prayer sin. 8. Let his days be few, and let another receive his office. 9. His children shall be orphans, and his wife a widow. 10. His children must go astray, begging and seeking, as those that are corrupt. 11. Let the usurer suck out all that he hath; and let strangers rob his goods. 12. And let no man do him good, neither let any man have pity on his fatherless. 13. His seed must be cut off; their name must be destroyed in the other generation. 14. Let his father's iniquity be remembered before the LORD, and let not his mother's sin be blotted out. 15. Let the LORD never take them out of his sight, and let their remembrance be cut off from the earth, 16. Because he had no mercy at all, but persecuted the wretched, and the poor, and him that was afflicted, to put him to death. 17. And he would have the curse, and it shall come upon him: but he would not have the blessing, and it shall be far from him. 18. And he put on the curse like his shirt; and it went into his inward parts like water, and like oil into his bones. 19. Let it be unto him as a garment to be put on, and as a girdle to be girded withal. 20. So be it done unto them of the LORD that are against me, and speak evil against my soul. 21. But thou, O Lord, be thou with me for thy name's sake: for thy mercy is my consolation: save me. 22. For I am poor and wretched; my heart is slain within me. 23. I pass away as a shadow that is driven away, and am chased away as the locusts. 24. My knees are weak from fasting; and my flesh is lean, and hath no fat. 25. And I must be their mockery: when they see me, they shake their heads. 26. Help me, O LORD my God; help me according to thy mercy, 27. That they may know that this is thy hand, that thou, O Lord, doest these things. 28. If they curse, bless thou. If they set themselves against me, they shall be put to shame: but let thy servant rejoice. 29. My adversaries must be clothed with shame, and be clothed with their shame as with a garment. 30. I will give great thanks unto the LORD with my mouth, and will praise him among many; 31. For he standeth at the right hand of the poor, to save him from them that condemn his life. The 110th Psalm (^) Prophecy of Christ our King, Prophet, and High Priest. 1. A psalm of David. The LORD said unto my LORD, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 2. The LORD shall send the scepter of thy kingdom out of Zion. Rule among your enemies! 3. After thy victory thy people shall willingly sacrifice unto thee in holy, adornment. Thy children shall be born unto thee as the dew out of the dawn. 4. The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent: thou art a priest for ever after the manner of Melchizedech. 5. The LORD at thy right hand shall smite kings in the time of his wrath. 6. He shall judge the nations; he shall do great slaughter; he shall bruise the head of great countries. 7. He shall drink of the brook by the way: therefore shall he lift up his head. The 111th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's corporal and spiritual One. Hallelujah! Blessing. I thank the Lord with all my heart in the council of the pious and in the congregation. 2. Great are the works of the LORD: he that regardeth them taketh pleasure in them. 3. That which he hath ordained is praiseworthy and glorious; and his righteousness endureth for ever. 4. He hath instituted a memorial of his wonders, the gracious and merciful LORD. 5. He giveth food unto them that fear him: he remembereth his covenant for ever. 6. He shall declare his mighty works unto his people, that he may give them the inheritance of the heathen. 7. The works of his hands are truth and judgment; all his commandments are righteous. 8. They shall be preserved for ever and ever, and shall be done faithfully and honestly. 9. He sendeth a salvation unto his people: he hath promised that his covenant shall endure for ever. Holy and holy is his name. 10. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: it is a subtle prudence: the praise of him that doeth it endureth for ever. The 112th Psalm (^) Of the godly quality and bliss. 1. Hallelujah! Blessed is he that feareth the LORD, that hath great delight in his commandments. 2. The seed shall be mighty in the earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. 3. Riches and fullness shall be in their house, and their righteousness shall endure for ever. 4. To the upright there ariseth light in the darkness from him that is gracious, and merciful, and just. 5. Blessed is he that is merciful, and lendeth willingly, and judgeth his goods, that he do wrong to none. 6. For he shall abide for ever: the righteous shall never be forgotten. 7. If a plague come, he feareth not: his heart hopeth in the LORD without fear. 8. His heart is confident, and fears not, till he see his delight in his enemies. 9. He scattereth, and giveth to the poor: his righteousness endureth for ever: his horn is exalted with glory. 10. The wicked shall see it, and be grieved: he shall gnash his teeth, and perish. For what the wicked would have, that is lost. The 113th Psalm (^) God gives grace to the humble. 1. hallelujah! Praise, ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD! 2. Blessed be the name of the LORD from henceforth even for ever. 3. From the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same be the name of the LORD praised. 4. The LORD is high above all nations: his glory is as far as the heavens. 5. Who is like unto the LORD our God? Who hath set himself so high 6. And look upon the low things in heaven and in earth; 7. Who raiseth up the lowly out of the dust, and exalteth the poor out of the dung, 8. To set him beside the princes, beside the princes of his people; 9. Who maketh the barren to dwell in the house, that she may be a joyful mother of children. Hallelujah! The 114th Psalm (^) From execution of the children of Israel out of Egypt. 1. When Israel came forth out of Egypt, the house of Jacob out of the strange nation, 2. Judah was his sanctuary, Israel his dominion. 3. The sea saw, and fled: Jordan turned back; 4. The mountains skipped like lambs, the hills like young sheep. 5. What was thine, O sea, that thou fledst? and thou Jordan, that thou turnedst back; 6. Ye mountains, that ye should leap like lambs; ye hills, like young sheep? 7. Before the LORD the earth worshippeth, before the God of Jacob, 8. Who changed the rock into a lake of water, and the stones into fountains of water. The 115th Psalm (^) Rejection of idolatry and idolatry 1. Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory for thy mercy and truth. 2.Why should the Gentiles say, Where is now their God? 3. But our God is in heaven; He can create what He wills. 4. And those idols are silver and gold, made with men's hands. 5. They have mouths, and speak not; they have eyes, and see not; 6. They have ears, and hear not; they have noses, and smell not; 7. They have hands, and they grasp not; they have feet, and they walk not, nor speak through their throats. 8. They that make them are like unto them, and all that hope in them. 9. But Israel hopeth in the LORD: he is their help and their shield. 10. The house of Aaron hope in the LORD: he is their help and their shield. 11. They that fear the LORD hope also in the LORD: he is their help and their shield. 12. The LORD remembereth us, and blesseth us. He blesseth the house of Israel; he blesseth the house of Aaron; 13. He blesseth them that fear the LORD, both small and great. 14. May the Lord bless you more and more, you and your children. 15. Ye are the blessed of the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 16. The heavens are the LORD'S in every place: but the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17. The dead shall not praise thee, O LORD; neither they that go down into silence, 18. But we praise the LORD from henceforth even for ever. Hallelujah! The 116th Psalm (^) How to comfort and behave in the cross. 1. This is dear unto me, that the LORD heareth my voice and my supplications, 2. That he may incline his ear unto me: therefore will I call upon him all the days of my life. 3. The cords of death had compassed me about, and the fear of hell had come upon me: I came in distress and in trouble. 4. But I called upon the name of the LORD, O LORD, save my soul. 5. The LORD is gracious and just, and our God is merciful. 6. The LORD keepeth the simple. When I fall short, he helps me. 7. Now therefore be content again, my soul: for the LORD doeth good unto thee. 8. For thou hast plucked my soul out of death, mine eye from tears, my foot from slipping. 9. I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living. 10. I think that's why I'm talking. I'm getting very harried, though. 11. I said in my anguish, All men are liars. 12. How shall I recompense the LORD for all his benefits which he doeth unto me? 13. I will take the cup of salvation, and will preach the name of the LORD. 14. I will pay my vows unto the LORD before all his people. 15. The death of his saints is accounted worthy in the sight of the LORD. 16. O LORD, I am thy servant; I am thy servant, the son of thine handmaid. Thou hast broken my bonds. 17. Unto thee will I offer thanksgiving, and preach the name of the LORD. 18. I will pay my vows unto the LORD before all his people, 19. In the courts of the house of the LORD, in thee, O Jerusalem. Hallelujah! The 117th Psalm (^) Of the Messiah and his kingdom. 1. Praise the LORD, all ye nations; praise him, all ye peoples. 2. For his grace and truth are with us for ever and ever. Hallelujah! The 118th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for the good deeds acquired through Christ's suffering. 1. Give thanks unto the LORD: for he is good; and his lovingkindness endureth for ever. 2. Now therefore say unto Israel, His goodness endureth. 3. Now therefore say unto the house of Aaron, His lovingkindness endureth for ever. 4. They therefore that fear the LORD say: His goodness endureth for ever. 5. In my anguish I called upon the LORD, and the LORD hearkened unto me, and comforted me. 6. The LORD is with me, therefore I will not fear: what can men do unto me? 7. The LORD is with me to help me: and I will see my delight in mine enemies. 8. It is good to trust in the LORD, and not to rely upon men. 9. It is good to trust in the LORD, and not to rely on princes. 10. All the heathen compass me about: but in the name of the LORD I will smite them. 11. They compass me about every where: but in the name of the LORD will I cut them down. 12. They surround me like bees, they dwell as a fire in thorns: but in the name of the LORD I will smite them. 13. They thrust me down, that I should fall: but the LORD help me. 14. The LORD is my power, and my psalm, and is my salvation. 15. They sing with joy of victory in the tabernacles of the righteous. The right hand of the Lord keeps the victory; 16. The right hand of the LORD is exalted; the right hand of the LORD retaineth the victory. 17. I will not die, but live, and declare the work of the LORD. 18. The LORD chasteneth me, but giveth me not away to death. 19. Open unto me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter therein, and give thanks unto the LORD. 20. This is the gate of the LORD: the righteous shall enter therein. 21. I thank thee that thou hast humbled me, and hast helped me. 22. The stone which the builders rejected became the corner stone. 23. This came to pass from the LORD, and is a wonder in our sight. 24. This is the day which the LORD maketh: let us rejoice and be glad in it. 25. O Lord, help, O Lord, make it prosperous! 26. Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the LORD. We bless you who are of the house of the LORD. 27. The LORD is God, which enlighteneth us. Adorn the feast with may to the horns of the altar; 28. Thou art my God, and I thank thee: my God, I will praise thee. 29. Give thanks unto the LORD: for he is good, and his mercy endureth for ever. The 119th Psalm (^) The Christians' golden ABC of the praise, love, power and benefit of the Word of God. 1. Blessed are they that walk without change, that walk in the law of the LORD. 2. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, that seek him with all their heart. 3. For they that walk in his ways do no evil. 4. Thou hast commanded to keep thy precepts diligently. 5. O that my life would keep thy statutes with all earnestness! 6. If I look only unto thy commandments, I shall not be put to shame. 7. I thank thee with a right heart, because thou hast taught me the judgments of thy righteousness. 8 I will keep thy statutes: forsake me no more. 9. How shall a young man go his way blamelessly? If he keep thy words. 10. I seek thee with all my heart: let me not fail of thy commandments. 11. I will keep thy word in mine heart, that I sin not against thee. 12. Praise be to you, O Lord! Teach me your rights! 13. I will tell with my lips all the statutes of thy mouth. 14. I rejoice in the way of thy testimonies, as in all riches. 15. I will speak that which thou hast commanded, and look to thy ways. 16. I delight in thy rights, and forget not thy words. 17. Do good unto thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. 18. Open mine eyes, that I may see the wonders of thy law. 19. I am a sojourner in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me. 20. My soul is crushed with desire for thy statutes at all times. 21. Thou reproachest the proud: cursed are they that lack thy commandments. 22. Turn from me reproach and contempt: for I hold thy testimonies. 23. The princes also sit and speak against me: but thy servant speaketh from thy right hand. 24. I delight in thy testimonies: they are my counsellors. 25. My soul lieth in the dust: quicken me according to thy word. 26. I tell my ways, and thou hearest me: teach me thy statutes. 27. Instruct me in the way of thy commandments, and I will speak of thy wonders. 28. I am grieved that my heart languisheth: strengthen me according to thy word. 29. turn from me the wrong way and grant me your law 30. I have chosen the way of truth; I have set thy statutes before me. 31. I hang upon thy testimonies: O Lord, let me not be put to shame. 32. If thou comfort my heart, I will walk in the way of thy commandments. 33. Show me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes, that I may keep them unto the end. 34. Instruct me, that I may keep thy law, and keep it with all my heart. 35. Lead me in the way of thy commandments: for I delight in them. 36. incline my heart to thy testimonies, and not to avarice. 37. Turn away mine eyes, that they look not after unprofitable doctrine: but refresh me in thy way. 38. Let thy servant keep thy commandment steadfastly unto thy word, that I may fear thee. 39. Turn away from me the reproach which I shun: for thy statutes are lovely. 40. Behold, I desire thy commandments; refresh me with thy righteousness. 41. O LORD, grant me thy mercy, thy help according to thy word, 42. That I may answer my blasphemer: for I trust in thy word. 43. And take not from my mouth the word of truth: for I hope in thy judgments. 44. I will keep thy law for ever and ever. 45. And I will walk cheerfully; for I seek thy precepts. 46. I speak of thy testimonies before kings, and am not ashamed; 47. And have delight in thy commandments, and are dear unto me; 48. And lift up my hands unto thy commandments which are dear unto me, and speak of thy statutes. 49. Remember thy servant thy word, in the which thou hast given me hope: 50. This is my consolation in my affliction: for thy word hath refreshed me. 51. The proud have their mockery upon me: nevertheless I depart not from thy law. 52. O LORD, when I remember how thou hast judged from the world, I am comforted. 53. I am enraged against the wicked who forsake thy law. 54. thy rights are my song in the house of my pilgrimage. 55. O LORD, I remember thy name by night, and keep thy law. 56. This is my treasure, that I keep thy commandments. 57. I have said, O LORD, this shall be mine inheritance, that I may keep thy ways. 58. I beseech thee before thy face with all my heart; be gracious unto me according to thy word. 59. I consider my ways, and turn my feet unto thy testimonies. 60. I will haste, and not be slow to keep thy commandments. 61. The wicked rob me: but I forget not thy law. 62. At midnight I rise to give thee thanks for the judgments of thy righteousness. 63. I cleave unto them that fear thee, and keep thy commandments. 64. O LORD, the earth is full of thy lovingkindness: teach me thy statutes. 65. Thou doest good unto thy servant, O LORD, according to thy word. 66. Teach me wholesome manners and knowledge; for I believe thy commandments. 67. Before I was humbled, I was in error; but now I keep thy word. 68. thou art kind and gracious: teach me thy statutes. 69. The proud invent lies against me: but I keep thy commandments with all my heart. 70: their heart is as thick as the sea; but I delight in thy law. 71. I am glad that thou hast humbled me, that I may learn thy statutes. 72: The law of thy mouth is dearer unto me than many thousand pieces of gold and silver. 73. thy hand hath made me and prepared me: instruct me, that I may learn thy commandments. 74. They that fear thee see me, and rejoice: for I hope in thy word. 75. O LORD, I know that thy judgments are right, and that thou hast humbled me faithfully. 76. let thy mercy be my consolation, as thou hast promised thy servant. 77: let thy mercy be upon me, that I may live: for I delight in thy law. 78. Oh that the proud might be put to shame, who oppress me with lies! But I speak of thy command. 79. Oh that those who fear thee and know thy testimonies would cleave to me! 80. Let my heart be established in thy statutes, that I be not put to shame. 81. My soul desireth thy salvation; I hope in thy word. 82. My eyes long for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me? 83. for I am as a skin in the smoke; thy right hand do I not forget. 84. How long shall thy servant wait? When wilt thou execute judgment upon my persecutors? 85. the proud dig me pits that are not according to thy law. 86. Thy commandments are all truth. They persecute me with lies; help me! 87. They have almost killed me on the earth; but I will not forsake thy commands. 88. Restore me by thy grace, that I may keep the testimonies of thy mouth. 89. O LORD, thy word endureth for ever, as far as the heavens are; 90. Thy truth endureth for ever and ever. Thou hast prepared the earth, and it standeth still. 91. Remain daily according to thy word: for all things must serve thee. 92. If thy law had not been my consolation, I should have perished in my misery. 93. I will never forget thy commandments: for thou hast refreshed me with them. 94. I am thine, help me; for I seek thy orders. 95. the wicked wait for me, that they may destroy me: but I take heed to thy testimonies. 96. I have seen the end of all things: but thy commandment endureth. 97. How I love thy law! Daily I speak of it. 98. thou makest me wiser with thy commandment than mine enemies are: for it is mine treasure for ever. 99. I am more learned than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my speech. 100. I am wiser than the ancients; for I keep thy commandments. 101. I will keep my foot from all evil ways, that I may keep thy word. 102. I will not depart from thy statutes: for thou teachest me. 103. Thy word is sweeter to my mouth than honey. 104. thy word maketh me wise: therefore hate I all false ways, 105. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. 106. I swear, and will keep it, that I will keep the statutes of thy righteousness. 107. I am greatly humbled; O Lord, refresh me according to thy word. 108. Indulge thou, O LORD, the willing sacrifice of my mouth, and teach me thy statutes. 109. I carry my soul always in my hands, and I forget not thy law. 110. The wicked lay ropes for me: but I will not go astray from thy commandment. 111. Thy testimonies are my everlasting inheritance; for they are the delight of my heart. 112. I incline mine heart to do thy statutes for ever and ever. 113. I hate the fluttering spirits and love your law. 114. thou art my shield and buckler; I hope in thy word. 115. Depart from me, ye wicked ones; I will keep the commandments of my God. 116. Keep me by thy word, that I may live; and let not my hope fail me. 117. strengthen me that I may recover, and I will always delight in thy statutes. 118. Thou treadest down all them that lack thy right: for their deceit is vain falsehood. 119. Thou castest away all the wicked of the earth as dross: therefore do I love thy testimonies. 120. I am afraid of thee, and my skin shivers: I am afraid of thy right hand. 121. I am above justice and righteousness; do not hand me over to those who would do me violence! 122. Stand thou for thy servant, and comfort him, that the proud do me no violence. 123. My eyes long for your salvation and for the word of your righteousness. 124. deal with thy servant according to thy lovingkindness, and teach me thy statutes. 125.. I am thy servant: instruct me, that I may know thy testimonies. 126. It is time for the LORD to do it: they have broken thy law. 127. Therefore I love thy commandment above gold, and above fine gold. 128. Therefore I keep all thy commandments straightway; I hate all false ways. 129. Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. 130. When thy word is made manifest, it rejoiceth, and maketh wise the simple. 131. I will open my mouth, and desire thy commandments: for I desire them. 132. turn unto me, and be gracious unto me, as thou wilt do unto them that love thy name. 133. Let my walk be sure in thy word, and let no injustice rule over me. 134. Deliver me from the iniquities of men, and I will keep thy commandments. 135. Let thy face shine upon thy servant, and teach me thy statutes. 136. mine eyes run with water, that they keep not thy law. 137. O LORD, thou art just, and thy word is right. 138. Thou hast harshly commanded the testimonies of thy righteousness and the truth. 139. I have been almost jealous to death, so that my adversaries forget your words. 140. thy word is well purified, and thy servant loveth it. 141. I am lowly and despised, but I do not forget your command. 142. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and your law is truth. 143. anguish and distress have afflicted me; but I delight in thy commandments. 144. The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting; instruct me, and I shall live. 145. I cry with all my heart; hear me, O LORD, that I may keep thy statutes. 146. I cry unto thee: help me that I may keep thy testimonies. 147. I come early and cry out; in thy word I hope. 148. I awake early to speak of thy word. 149. Hear my voice according to thy mercy; O LORD, refresh me according to thy statutes. 150. My wicked persecutors seek me, and are far from thy law. 151. Thou art near, O Lord, and thy commandments are all truth. 152. But before this I know that thou hast established thy testimonies for ever. 153. Behold my affliction, and deliver me: help me out, for I forget not thy law. 154. Lead my cause, and deliver me; refresh me with thy word. 155. Salvation is far from the wicked: for they respect not thy statutes. 156. O LORD, thy mercy is great: refresh me according to thy righteousness. 157. My persecutors and adversaries are many: but I depart not from thy testimonies. 158. I see the despisers, and woe is me that they keep not thy word. 159. Behold, I love thy commandments; O LORD, refresh me according to thy grace! 160. thy word is nothing but truth: all the statutes of thy righteousness endure for ever. 161. The princes persecute me without a cause, and my heart is afraid of thy words. 162. I rejoice in thy word as one that getteth a great spoil. 163. I am a lover of lies, and abhor them: but I love thy law. 164. I praise thee seven times a day for thy righteousness' sake. 165. great peace have they that love thy law, and shall not stumble. 166. O LORD, I wait for thy salvation, and do according to thy commandments. 167. My soul holdeth thy testimonies, and loveth them almost. 168. I will keep thy commandments and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee. 169. O Lord, let my complaint come before thee; instruct me according to thy word. 170. let my supplication come before thee; save me according to thy word. 171. my lips shall rave, when thou teachest me thy statutes. 172. My tongue shall have her conversation of thy word: for all thy commandments are right. 173. Let thy hand be with me: for I have fulfilled thy commandments. 174. O LORD, I desire thy salvation, and have delight in thy law. 175. Let my soul live, that it may praise thee; and let thy judgments help me. 176. I am like a sheep that is gone astray and lost: seek thy servant; for I forget not thy commandments. The 120th Psalm (^) Prayer against false teachers, slanderers and tyrants. 1. A song in the higher chorus. I cry unto the Lord in my trouble, and he heareth me. 2. O Lord, deliver my soul from the lying lips, and from the false tongues. 3. what can the wrong tongue do to you? and what can it do? 4. it is like sharp arrows of a strong man, like fire in junipers. 5. Woe is me, that I am a stranger among Meshech! I will dwell among the tents of Kedar. 6. It shall be long unto my soul to dwell with them that hate peace. 7. I keep peace; but when I speak, they make war. The 121st Psalm (^) God a keeper of men. 1. A song in the higher chorus. I lift up my eyes to the mountains, from which help comes to me. 2. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. 3. He shall not suffer thy foot to slip: and he that keepeth thee shall not sleep. 4. Behold, the keeper of Israel sleepeth not yet. 5. The LORD keep thee: the LORD is thy shadow over thy right hand, 6. That the sun sting thee not by day, nor the moon by night. 7. The LORD keep thee from all evil: he keep thy soul. Peor and ate of the sacrifices of the dead idols 8. The LORD keep thy going out, and thy coming in, from henceforth even for ever. The 122nd Psalm (^) Glory of the city of Jerusalem. 1. A song of David in the higher chorus. I rejoice in that which is spoken unto me, that we shall go into the house of the LORD, 2. And our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. 3. Is built that it may be a city, where men may come together, 4. When the tribes should go up, even the tribes of the LORD, to preach unto the people of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD. 5. For there sit the seats of judgment, the seats of the house of David. 6. wish Jerusalem happiness. May it be well with those who love you! 7. Let there be peace within thy walls, and happiness in thy palaces. 8. For my brethren's sake, and for my friends' sake, I will wish thee peace. 9. For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek thy best. The 123rd Psalm (^) The pious condition and comfort. 1. a song in the higher chorus. I lift up mine eyes unto thee that sitteth in heaven. 2. Behold, as the eyes of servants look on the hands of their masters, as the eyes of maidservants on the hands of their wives; so our eyes look on the LORD our God, until he be gracious unto us. 3. Be gracious unto us, O LORD, be gracious unto us: for we are very full of contempt. 4. Very full is our soul of proud scorn, and of proud contempt. The 124th Psalm (^) God's help in time of need. 1. A song of David in the higher chorus. Where the Lord would not be with us, say Israel, 2. Where the Lord would not be with us if men set themselves against us, 3. So they devoured us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us, 4. So water drowned us, streams went over our souls; 5. Waters went too high over our souls. 6. Blessed be the LORD, because he giveth us no prey in their teeth. 7. Our soul is escaped as a bird from the captor's snare. The rope is broken and we are free. 8. Our help is in the name of the LORD, which made heaven and earth. The 125th Psalm (^) Hope does not let you be defeated. 1. A song in the higher chorus. They that hope in the LORD shall not fall, but shall abide for ever, as Mount Zion. 2. There are mountains round about Jerusalem: and the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever. 3. For the sceptre of the wicked shall not abide upon the company of the righteous, lest the righteous stretch out their hand unto iniquity. 4. O Lord, do good to the good and devout in heart. 5. And the LORD shall drive away them that turn aside into their crooked ways with the transgressors. But peace be upon Israel! The 126th Psalm (^) The sadness of the pious shall be turned into joy. A song in the higher chorus. When the Lord shall redeem the captives of Zion, we shall be as those who dream. 2. Then shall our mouth be full of laughter, and our tongue of praise. Then shall they say among the heathen: The LORD hath done great things for them. 3. The LORD hath done great things for us: we rejoice. 4. O Lord, turn our prison, as thou dost dry the waters at noonday. 5. those who sow with tears will reap with joy. 6. They go and weep, and bear noble seed, and come with joy, and bring their sheaves. The 127th Psalm (^) Blessed stewardship and government. 1. A Song of Solomon in the higher chorus. Where the LORD buildeth not the house, they that build it labour in vain. Where the LORD keepeth not the city, the watchman watcheth in vain. 2. It is vain for you to rise up early, and afterward to sit down long, and to eat your bread with sorrow: for he giveth it to his friends sleeping. 3. Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is a gift. 4. As the arrows in the hand of a strong man, so do the young boys turn out. 5. Blessed is he that hath his quiver full of them. They shall not be put to shame, when they deal with their enemies in the gate. The 128th Psalm (^) Pious husband and wife's duty and blessing. 1. A song in the higher chorus. Blessed is he that feareth the LORD, and walketh in his ways! 2. Thou shalt feed thyself with the work of thine hands: prosper thou, thou hast prospered. 3. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine round about thy house, thy children as the olive branches round about thy table. 4. Behold, thus is the man blessed that feareth the LORD. 5. The LORD shall bless thee out of Zion, and thou shalt see the happiness of Jerusalem all the days of thy life. 6. And see thy children's children. Peace upon Israel! The 129th Psalm (^) The church's victory against her enemies. 1. A song in the higher chorus. They have often urged me on from my youth, so say Israel; 2. They have often urged me from my youth; but they have not overpowered me. 3. the ploughmen have ploughed on my back and drawn their furrows long. 4. The LORD that is righteous hath cut off the cords of the wicked. 5. Alas, that all they that love Zion should be put to shame, and return! 6. Oh that they should be as the grass upon the housetops, which withereth before it be plucked up, 7. Of which the reaper filleth not his hand, nor the binder his arm full, 8. And they that pass by shall not say: The blessing of the LORD be upon you; we bless you in the name of the LORD. The 130th Psalm (^) Prayer for forgiveness of sins. 1. a song in the higher choir. From the depths I call to thee, O Lord. 2. O LORD, hear my voice; let thine ears be attentive unto the voice of my supplications. 3. If thou wilt, O LORD, impute sin, O LORD, who shall stand? 4. For with thee is forgiveness, that they may fear thee. 5. I wait for the LORD: my soul waiteth, and I hope in his word. 6. My soul waiteth for the LORD from morning watch to morning watch. 7. Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD is grace, and much salvation with him; 8. And he will redeem Israel from all their sins. The 131st Psalm (^) Mirror of humility. Abomination of arrogance. 1. A song of David in the higher chorus. O Lord, my heart is not proud, Nor mine eyes haughty, Nor walk in great things that are too high for me. 2. If I sat not down and nursed my soul, my soul was weaned, as one is weaned from his mother. 3. Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth even for ever. The 132nd Psalm (^) Prayer for the preservation of worship and secular government. 1. A song in the higher chorus. Remember, O Lord, David and all his sufferings, 2. Who sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty man of Jacob: 3. I will not go into the tabernacle of my house, neither will I lie down in the bed of my bed, 4. I will not let my eyes sleep, nor my eyelids slumber, 5. Till I find a place for the LORD; for a dwelling place unto the mighty one of Jacob. 6. Behold, we hear of her in Ephrathah; we have found her in the field of the forest. 7. We will enter into his tabernacle, and worship before his footstool. 8. Arise, O Lord, unto thy rest, thou and the ark of thy power. 9. Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness, and let thy saints rejoice. 10. Take not away the rule of thine anointed for thy servant David's sake. 11. The LORD sware unto David a true oath: he will not turn from it: I will set the fruit of thy womb upon thy throne. 12. If thy children keep my covenant, and my testimony which I will teach them, their children also shall sit in thy throne for ever. 13. For the LORD hath chosen Zion, and hath pleased to dwell there. 14. This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for it is well with me. 15. I will bless their food, and give bread to their poor. 16. Their priests will I clothe with salvation, and their saints shall rejoice. 17. There shall the horn of David arise: I have prepared a lamp for mine anointed. 18. His enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon him shall his crown flourish. The 133rd Psalm (^) From the golden jewel of peace and harmony. 1. A song of David in the higher chorus. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together! 2. As the precious balm which flowed down from the head of Aaron into all his beard, which flowed down into his garment, 3. As the dew that cometh down from Hermon upon mount Zion. For there the LORD promiseeth blessing and life for ever and ever. The 134th Psalm (^) Of the office of churchwardens. 1. A song in the higher choir. Behold, praise the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, that stand by night in the house of the LORD. 2. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and praise the LORD. 3. The LORD bless thee from Zion, which made heaven and earth! The 135th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's benefits. 1. hallelujah! Praise the name of the LORD, praise, ye servants of the LORD, 2. Ye that stand in the house of the LORD, in the courts of the house of our God. 3. Praise ye the LORD: for the LORD is good: sing ye praises unto his name: for he is good. 4. For the LORD hath chosen Jacob for him, and Israel for his possession. 5. For I know that the LORD is great, and that he is our LORD above all gods. 6. Whatsoever he will, that doeth he, in heaven, in earth, in the sea, and in all deeps; 7. Who maketh the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth, who maketh the lightnings to rain, who maketh the wind to come out of secret places; 8. Who smote the firstborn in Egypt, both of men and cattle, 9. And sent his signs and wonders upon thee, O land of Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants; 10. Who smote many nations, and slew mighty kings, 11. The king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan; 12. And gave their land for an inheritance, for an inheritance unto his people Israel. 13. O LORD, thy name endureth for ever: thy memorial, O LORD, endureth for ever. 14. For the LORD will judge his people, and be gracious unto his servants. 15. The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, made with the hands of men. 16. They have mouths, and speak not; they have eyes, and see not; 17. They have ears, and hear not: neither is there breath in their mouth. 18. They that make such are like unto them, all they that hope for such. 19. Let the house of Israel praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, ye of the house of Aaron; 20. Ye of the house of Levi, praise the LORD: ye that fear the LORD, praise the LORD. 21. Blessed be the LORD of Zion, which dwelleth in Jerusalem. Hallelujah! The 136th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's goodness and miracles. 1. Give thanks unto the LORD: for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. 2. Give thanks unto the God of all gods: for his mercy endureth for ever. 3. Give thanks unto the LORD of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever. 4. For he alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever. 5. Who hath made the heavens good: for his mercy endureth for ever. 6. Who hath spread the earth upon the face of the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever. 7. Who hath made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever; 8. The sun to preside over the day: for his mercy endureth for ever; 9. The moon and the stars to preside over the night: for his mercy endureth for ever. 10. He smote Egypt with their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever; 11. And brought Israel out: for his mercy endureth for ever; 12. By a mighty hand and an outstretched arm: for his mercy endureth for ever. 13. Who divided the Red sea into two parts: for his mercy endureth for ever; 14. And let Israel pass through: for his mercy endureth for ever. 15. Who thrust Pharaoh and his army into the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. 16. Who led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever. 17. He smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever; 18. And slew mighty kings: for his mercy endureth for ever; 19. Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever; 20. And Og king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever; 21. And gave her land for an inheritance: for his mercy endureth for ever; 22. For an inheritance unto his servant Israel: for his mercy endureth for ever. 23. For he remembered us when we were oppressed: for his mercy endureth for ever; 24. And delivered us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. 25. Who giveth meat unto all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. 26. Give thanks unto God from heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever. The 137th Psalm (^) The captive Jews' lamentation song. 1. By the waters of Babel we sat and wept, when we remembered Zion. 2. We hanged our harps upon the willows that are within. 3. For there let them that held us captive sing unto us, and be merry in our crying: beloved, sing unto us a song of Zion. 4. How shall we sing the LORD'S song in a strange land? 5. If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand be forgotten. 6. Let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, where I remember thee not, where I let not Jerusalem be my chief delight. 7. Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem, which say, Cleanse off, cleanse off, even unto their floor. 8. Thou daughter of Babylon, that thou mayest be rewarded for what thou hast done unto us. 9. Blessed is he that taketh thy young children, and dasheth them to the stone! The 138th Psalm (^) Thanksgiving for God's goodness. 1. David's. I thank thee with all my heart: before the gods will I sing praise unto thee. 2. I will worship in thy holy temple, and give thanks unto thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy faithfulness: for thou hast magnified thy name above all things by thy word. 3. When I call upon thee, hear me, and give great strength unto my soul. 4. All the kings of the earth give thee thanks, O LORD, because they have heard the word of thy mouth, 5. And sing in the ways of the LORD, that the glory of the LORD may be great. 6. For the LORD is high, and looketh on the lowly, and knoweth the proud afar off. 7. When I walk in the midst of fear, thou hast refreshed me, and hast stretched out thine hand upon the wrath of mine enemies, and hast saved me with thy right hand. 8. The LORD will make an end of it for my sake. O Lord, thy lovingkindness is everlasting. Thou wilt not leave the work of thy hands. The 139th Psalm (^) Of God's providence, omnipotence, and omnipresence. 1. A psalm of David, to be sung. O Lord, thou searchest me, and knowest me. 2. I sit, or rise up, thou knowest: thou understandest my thoughts afar off. 3. I walk, or lie down; thou art about me, and seest all my ways. 4. For, behold, there is not a word upon my tongue, which thou, LORD, knowest not all things. 5. Thou wilt do what I do before or after, and holdest thine hand over me. 6. Such knowledge is too strange and too high for me; I cannot understand it. 7. Whither shall I go before thy spirit, and whither shall I flee before thy face? 8. If I go to heaven, behold, thou art there. If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there also. 9. If I took wings of the dawn, and abode by the uttermost sea, 10. Yet thine hand shall lead me there, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11. If I say, Let darkness cover me, the night also shall be light round about me; 12. For even darkness is not dark with thee, and the night shineth as the day: darkness is as the light. 13. For thou hast my kidneys in thy power: thou wast over me in my mother's womb. 14. I thank thee that I am marvellously made: marvellous are thy works, and my soul knoweth them. 15. My bones were not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, when I was formed in the lower parts of the earth. 16. Thine eyes saw me when I was yet unprepared, and all the days were written in thy book, which were yet to come, and there was none of them. 17. But how precious in my sight, O God, are your thoughts! How great is their sum! 18. If I were to count them, they would be more than the sand. When I wake, I'll still be with you. 19. O God, that thou wouldest slay the wicked, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me! 20. For they speak blasphemy against thee, and thine enemies rise up without a cause. 21. I hate, O LORD, them that hate thee, and am turned away upon them, that they should set themselves against thee. 22. I hate them in a right earnestness; therefore they are an enemy unto me. 23. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know how I mean; 24. And see if I be in an evil way, and guide me in an everlasting way. The 140th Psalm (^) Prayer for salvation from secret and public enemies. 1. a psalm of David, to be sung. 2. Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men: keep me from the wicked, 3. Who think evil in their hearts, and stir up war daily. 4. They sharpen their tongue like a serpent; adder's venom is under their lips. Sela. 5. Keep me, O LORD, from the hand of the wicked: keep me from the transgressors, that seek to overthrow my course. 6. The proud have spread me ropes for a net, and have set traps in my way. Sela. 7. But I say unto the LORD, Thou art my God: O LORD, hear the voice of my supplications. 8. O Lord, my strong help, thou shieldest my head in the time of battle. 9. O LORD, let not the wicked have his covetousness: strengthen not his indignation: they will rise up. Sela. 10. Let the calamities of which mine enemies counsel fall upon their heads. 11. He shall pour out rays upon them; he shall smite them with fire deep into the earth, and they shall never rise. 12. An evil mouth shall not prosper in the earth: a wicked man shall be cast out, and overthrown. 13. For I know that the LORD will execute the cause of the afflicted, and the judgment of the poor. 14. The righteous also shall give thanks unto thy name, and the upright shall abide before thy face. The 141st Psalm (^) Prayer for help and salvation. 1. a psalm of David. O LORD, I cry unto thee; make haste unto me; hear my voice when I call upon thee. 2. Let my prayer be accepted before thee as an incense, and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice. 3. O LORD, keep my mouth, and keep my lips. 4. Incline not mine heart unto any evil, to lead an ungodly life with the transgressors, that I eat not of that which is dear unto them. 5. The righteous smite me kindly, and punish me: it shall do me good as a balm upon my head. For I pray always that they do me no hurt. 6. Their teachers must be overthrown upon a rock: then shall my doctrine be heard, that it may be sweet. 7. Our bones are scattered as far as hell, as one that scattereth and scattereth the earth. 8. For in thee, O Lord, do mine eyes look; I trust in thee: forsake not my soul. 9. Keep me from the snare which they have laid for me, and from the snare of the workers of iniquity. 10. The wicked must fall into their own net together, but I always pass by. The 142nd Psalm (^) David's prayer for help and salvation. 1. an instruction to David to pray, as he was in the cave. 2. I cry unto the LORD with my voice; I beseech the LORD with my voice; 3. I will pour out my speech before him, and show my affliction before him. 4. When my spirit is in anguish, thou takest care of me. They lay ropes for me in the way where I go up. 5. Look on thy right hand, and, behold, no man knoweth me. I cannot escape; no man taketh hold of my soul. 6. O LORD, unto thee do I cry, saying, Thou art my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. 7. Take heed to my lamentation, for I am greatly afflicted: deliver me from my persecutors, for they are too mighty for me. 8. Bring forth my soul out of the dungeon, that I may give thanks unto thy name. The righteous will gather to me, if you do me good. The 143rd Psalm (^) Prayer of repentance for the averting of evil and the attainment of good. 1. a psalm of David. Hear my prayer, O Lord; hear my supplication for thy truth's sake; hear me for thy righteousness' sake. 2. And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for there is none living that is righteous before thee. 3. For the enemy pursueth my soul, and destroyeth my life to the ground; he layeth me in darkness, as the dead in the world. 4. And my spirit is troubled within me; my heart is consumed in my flesh. 5. I remember the former times; I speak of all thy doings, and tell of the works of thy hands. 6. I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth for thee as a dry land. Sela. 7. Hear me, O LORD, quickly; my spirit is departed: hide not thy face from me, that I be not like them which go down to the pit. 8. Let me early hear thy mercy: for I hope in thee. Make known unto me the way wherein I shall go; For I long for thee. 9. Deliver me, O my God, from mine enemies: in thee have I refuge. 10. Teach me to do according to thy good pleasure: for thou art my God: let thy good spirit lead me in a straight path. 11. O LORD, quicken me for thy name's sake, bring my soul out of trouble for thy righteousness' sake; 12. And destroy mine enemies for thy lovingkindness' sake, and destroy all them that afflict my soul: for I am thy servant. The 144th Psalm (^) Acknowledgement for received and request for future victory. 1. A psalm of David. Blessed be the LORD my stronghold, which teacheth my hands to fight, and my fists to war, 2. My goodness, and my fortress, my refuge, and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I trust, that compelleth my people under me. 3. O LORD, what is man, that thou art so mindful of him? and the child of man, that thou hast such regard for him? 4. Man is as nothing; his time passeth away like a shadow. 5. O LORD, incline thy heavens, and descend; touch the mountains, and they shall smoke. 6. Let thy lightning flash, and scatter them: shoot thy beams, and scatter them. 7. Send thine hand from on high, and deliver me, and deliver me from great waters, from the hand of strange children, 8. Whose doctrine is not profitable, and their works are false. 9. God, I will sing unto thee a new song; I will play unto thee upon the psaltery of ten strings. 10. Who givest victory unto kings, and deliverest thy servant David from the murderous sword of the wicked. 11. Deliver me also, and deliver me out of the hand of strange children, whose doctrine is not profitable, and whose works are false, 12. That our sons may grow up in their youth like plants, and our daughters like hewn out oriels, like palaces, 13. And our storehouses shall be full, which may give out one store after another; and our flocks shall bear a thousand and an hundred thousand in our villages; 14. That our oxen may work much: that there be no hurt, neither loss, nor complaint in our streets. 15. Blessed are the people, to whom it is so. But blessed are the people, whose God is the LORD! The 145th Psalm (^) Praise for the kingdom of Christ and its benefits. 1. praise of David. I will exalt thee, O my God, O king; I will praise thy name for ever and ever. 2. I will praise thee daily, and magnify thy name for ever and ever. 3. The LORD is great and very praiseworthy, and his greatness is unspeakable. 4. Children's children shall praise thy works, and shall speak of thy power. 5. I will speak of thy glorious and fair splendor, and of thy wonders, 6. That they should speak of thy glorious works, and that they should tell of thy glory, 7. That they may praise thy great goodness, and glorify thy righteousness. 8. Gracious and merciful is the LORD, patient, and of great kindness. 9. The LORD is good to all, and hath mercy on all his works. 10. Let all thy works give thee thanks, O LORD; and let thy saints praise thee. 11. And boast of the glory of thy kingdom, and speak of thy power, 12. That thy power may be made known unto the children of men, and the honourable majesty of thy kingdom. 13. Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth for ever. 14. The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all that are brought low. 15. All eyes wait upon thee, and thou givest them their meat in his season. 16. Thou openest thine hand, and fillest all that livest with good pleasure. 17. The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works. 18. The LORD is near unto all them that call upon him, to all them that call upon him with earnestness. 19. He doeth that which the godly desire: he heareth their cry, and helpeth them. 20. The LORD keepeth all them that love him, and shall destroy all the wicked. 21. Let my mouth speak the praises of the LORD, and let all flesh praise his holy name for ever and ever. The 146th Psalm (^) Of true trust in God. 1. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord, my soul! 2. I will praise the LORD as long as I live, and sing praises unto my God because I am here. 3. Rely not on princes: they are men, they cannot help. 4. For the spirit of man must depart, and he must return to the ground: then are all his works lost. 5. Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, 6. Who made heaven, earth, sea, and all that is in them; whose faith endureth for ever; 7. He that doeth justice to them that suffer violence; he that feedeth the hungry. The LORD looseth the captives. 8. The LORD maketh the blind to see. The LORD raiseth up them that are downcast. The LORD loveth the righteous. 9. The LORD keepeth the stranger and the fatherless, and preserveth the widow; and turneth back the way of the wicked. 10. The LORD is King for ever, thy God, O Zion, for ever and ever. Hallelujah! The 147th Psalm (^) Exhortation to give thanks for God's care and benefits. 1. Praise ye the LORD: for to praise our God is a precious thing: such praise is sweet and beautiful. 2. The LORD buildeth Jerusalem, and gathereth together the outcasts of Israel. 3. He healeth the brokenhearted, and bindeth up their sorrows. 4. He numbereth the stars, and calleth them all by name. 5. Our Lord is great, and of mighty power: and how he ruleth is incomprehensible. 6. The LORD judgeth the wretched, and castteth down the wicked. 7. Sing ye one to another with thanksgiving unto the LORD, and praise our God with harps, 8. Who covereth the heavens with clouds, and giveth rain upon the earth; who maketh grass to grow upon mountains; 9. Who giveth his food to the cattle, to the young ravens that call upon him. 10. He hath no pleasure in the strength of the horse, nor in the legs of any man. 11. The LORD is pleased with them that fear him, that hope in his goodness. 12. Praise, O Jerusalem, the LORD; praise, O Zion, thy God. 13. For he maketh strong the bars of thy gates, and blesseth thy children within. 14. He maketh peace within thy borders, and satisfieth thee with the best of wheat. 15. He sendeth forth his speech upon earth; his word runneth swiftly. 16. He giveth snow like wool, he scattereth hoar-frost like ashes. 17. He casteth out his locks like morsels: who can abide from his frost? 18. He speaketh, and it melteth: he maketh his wind to blow, and it thaweth. 19. He shewed his word unto Jacob, and his statutes and his judgments unto Israel. 20. He hath not done so unto any heathen, neither hath he made them know his statutes. Hallelujah! The 148th Psalm (^) General exhortation to all creatures to praise God 1. hallelujah! Praise, ye heavens, the LORD; praise him in the highest! 2. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his host. 3. Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all the shining stars! 4. Praise him, ye heavens on every side, and the waters that are above in the sky. 5. They shall praise the name of the LORD: for he giveth, and it shall be done. 6. He keepeth them for ever and ever: he ordainth them, that they walk not otherwise. 7. Praise ye the LORD upon the earth, ye whales, and all the deeps; 8. fire, hail, snow, and vapor, tempestuous winds, which execute his word; 9. mountains and all hills, fruitful trees and all cedars; 10. beast, and all cattle, and vermin, and birds; 11. Ye kings of the earth, and all the people, and rulers, and all the judges of the earth; 12. young men and virgins, old men with young men 13. Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name only is great: his praise goeth forth as far as heaven and earth. 14. And he exalteth the horn of his people. Let all his saints praise, the children of Israel, the people that serve him, alleluia! The 149th Psalm (^) Song of thanksgiving for the spread of the holy gospel of Christ. 1. Hallelujah! Sing to the Lord a new song! Let the congregation of the saints praise him. 2. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be glad in their king. 3. They shall praise his name in song: with timbrels and harps shall they play unto him. 4. For the LORD is well pleased with his people: he helpeth the needy gloriously. 5. Let the saints be glad and praise and glory in their camps. 6. Their mouth shall exalt GOD, and shall have sharp swords in their hands, 7. To execute vengeance among the heathen, punishment among the nations, 8. To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron, 9. To do them the judgment that is written. Such glory shall all his saints have. Hallelujah! The 150th Psalm (^) Exhortation to the praise of God. 1. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord in his sanctuary; praise him in the firmament of his power! 2. Praise him in his deeds; praise him in his great glory. 3. Praise him with trumpets; praise him with psalteries and harps. 4. Praise him with timbrels and with music; praise him with strings and with pipes. 5. Praise him with barking cymbals; praise him with sounding cymbals. 6. Let every living thing praise the Lord! Hallelujah! Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs) ^ Chapter 1 Whereby wisdom is attained or hindered. 1. These are the sayings of Solomon king of Israel, David's son, 2. to learn wisdom and discipline, understanding, 3. prudence, justice, right and wrong, 4. That the silly become witty, and the young men sensible and prudent. 5. He that is wise hearkeneth, and mendeth: and he that is understanding heareth counsel, 6. That he may hear the sayings and their interpretation, the doctrine of the wise and their examples. 7. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of learning. The wicked despise wisdom and discipline. 8. my child, obey your father's discipline and do not forsake your mother's commandment. 9. For these things are an ornament unto thy head, and a chain about thy neck. 10. My child, if the wicked lure thee, follow not. 11. When they say, Go with us; we will lie in wait for blood, and pursue the innocent without a cause; 12. We will swallow them up alive as hell, and the pious as they that go down to the pit; 13. We will find great goods; we will fill our houses with spoil; 14. Dare it with us; it shall be a bag of us all: 15. My child, walk not in the way with them; turn away thy foot from their path. 16. For their feet run to evil, and haste to shed blood. 17. For it is vain to cast the net before the eyes of the birds. 18. They also lie in wait among themselves for their blood, and seek one another's lives. 19. So do all the covetous, that one taketh another's life. 20. Wisdom complaineth without, and is heard in the streets. 21. She calleth in the door of the gate in the front among the people; she speaketh her words in the city: 22. How long will ye be foolish, and the scoffers delight in scoffing, and the reprobate hate the doctrine? 23. Return unto my punishment. Behold, I will speak my spirit unto you, and make known my words unto you. 24. Because I call, and ye refuse; I stretch forth my hand, and no man hearkeneth unto it, 25. And let all my counsel go, and be not willing of my punishment: 26. I will also laugh at your calamity, and mock you, when that cometh which ye fear, 27. When upon you cometh as a storm ye fear, and your calamity as a weather, when upon you cometh fear and trouble. 28. Then shall they call unto me, but I will not answer: they shall seek me early, and shall not find me. 29. Because they hated the doctrine, and would not have the fear of the LORD, 30. Were not willing of my counsel, and blasphemed all my punishment, 31. So shall they eat of the fruits of their being, and be satisfied with their counsel. 32. That which the foolish desire killeth them, and the wicked fortune destroyeth them. 33. But he that obeyeth me shall be safe, and shall have plenty, and shall fear no evil. (Proverbs) Chapter 2 Of learning wisdom. 1. My child, wilt thou accept my speech, and keep my commandments with thee? 2. Let thine ear be attentive to wisdom, and incline thine heart diligently unto it. 3. For if thou shalt diligently call for it, and pray for it, 4. If thou seek them as silver, and search them out as treasures, 5. Then thou shalt hear the fear of the LORD, and shalt find the knowledge of God. 6. For the LORD giveth wisdom, and out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. 7. He maketh the upright to prosper, and shieldeth the pious. 8. And keep them that do right, and keep the way of his saints. 9. Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and justice, and godliness, and every good way. 10. Where wisdom is in thy heart, that thou mayest gladly learn, 11. Good counsel shall preserve thee, and understanding shall keep thee, 12. That thou enter not into the way of the wicked, nor among perverse babblers, 13. Those who go out of the right way and walk in darkness, 14. Who delight to do evil, and are merry in their evil, perverse nature, 15. Who turn aside their way, and follow their way; 16. Lest thou fall in with another's wife, and she be not thine, which speaketh evil words. 17. Forsaking the Lord of their youth, and forgetting the covenant of their God; 18. For their house inclineth unto death, and their courses unto the lost; 19. All who enter into it do not return and do not take the way of life: 20. That thou mayest walk in a good way, and keep thee in the paths of righteousness. 21. For the righteous shall dwell in the land, and the upright shall dwell within; 22. But the wicked shall be cut off out of the land, and the reprobate shall be destroyed out of it. (Proverbs) Chapter 3 Exhortation to good works. Praise of wisdom. 1. My child, forget not my law, and let thy heart keep my commandments. 2. For they shall bring thee long life, and good years, and peace; 3. Grace and faithfulness shall not fail thee. Hang them on your neck and write them on the tablet of your heart, 4. Then you will find favor and wisdom pleasing to God and man. 5. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart, and lean not upon thine understanding; 6. But remember him in all thy ways, and he shall guide thee aright. 7. Thou shalt not be wise, but fear the LORD, and depart from evil. 8. This shall be health unto thy navel, and thy bones shall be refreshed. 9. Honour the LORD of thy substance, and of the firstfruits of all thy substance, 10. And thy barns shall be filled, and thy winepresses shall overflow with wine. 11. My child, do not reject the chastening of the Lord, and do not be impatient with His punishment! 12. For whom the LORD loveth he punisheth, and is well pleased with him, as a father with his son. 13. Blessed is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. 14. For it is better to handle them, neither to handle silver; and their revenue is better than gold. 15. She is more precious than pearls; and all that thou mayest desire is not like her. 16. Long life is at her right hand; at her left hand are riches and honour. 17. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. 18. It is a tree of life unto all them that lay hold upon it: and blessed are they that keep it. 19. For the LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth, and by his counsel hath prepared the heavens. 20. By his wisdom the deeps are divided, and the clouds are made dripping with dew. 21. My child, let them not depart from thine eyes, and thou shalt be blessed and wise. 22. This shall be the life of thy soul, and thy mouth shall be glad. 23. Then shalt thou walk safely in thy way, and thy foot shall not stumble. . 24. When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid, but shalt sleep sweetly, 25. That thou shalt not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of the tempest of the wicked, when it cometh. 26. For the LORD is thy stoutness: he keepeth thy foot, that it be not taken. 27. Refuse not to do good to the needy, if thy hand hath from God to do it. 28. Say not unto thy friend, Go thy way, and come again; to morrow will I give thee, if thou be well pleased. 29. Seek not evil against thy friend, which dwelleth with thee in faithfulness. 30. Be not grieved with any without a cause, if he hath not wronged thee. 31. Be not eager after any iniquity, neither choose his ways. 32. For the LORD hath abhorred of the transgressor, and his secret is with the upright. 33. In the house of the wicked is the curse of the LORD: but the house of the righteous shall be blessed. 34. He will mock the scoffers; but he will give mercy to the wretched. 35. The wise shall inherit honour: but when fools come up, they are put to shame. (Proverbs) Chapter 4 Opportunity to sin is to be avoided. 1. Hearken, my children, unto the discipline of your father; take heed that ye learn and become wise. 2. For I give you good doctrine: forsake not my law. 3. For I was my father's son, a tender and a few before my mother, 4. And he taught me, saying, Let thine heart receive my words; keep my commandments, and thou shalt live. 5. Increase in wisdom, increase in understanding; forget not, and depart not from the speech of my mouth. 6. Forsake her not, and she shall keep thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. 7. For the beginning of wisdom is to hear gladly, and to have prudence rather than all goods. 8. Esteem her highly, and she shall exalt thee; and she shall make thee honourable where thou hearest her. 9. She shall beautifully adorn thy head, and shall adorn thee with a fair crown. 10. Hear therefore, my child, and receive my words, and thy years shall be many. 11. I will lead thee in the way of wisdom; I will guide thee in the paths of righteousness, 12. That when thou walkest, thy walk be not sore unto thee; and when thou runnest, that thou bump not against thyself. 13. Take hold of discipline, leave it not: keep it, for it is thy life. 14. Come not into the path of the wicked, neither tread thou in the way of the evil. 15. Let him go, and go not in: depart from him, and pass by. 16. For they sleep not, because they have done evil: neither do they rest, because they have done evil. 17. For they feed on ungodly bread, and drink of the wine of iniquity. 18. But the path of the righteous shineth as the light that goeth forth, and shineth unto the full day. 19. But the way of the wicked is as darkness, and they know not whither they shall fall. 20. My son, hearken unto my word, and incline thine ear unto my speech. 21. Let them not depart from thine eyes: keep them in thine heart. 22. For they are life to them that find them, and health to their whole body. 23. Take heed to thine heart with all diligence: for out of it cometh life. 24. Put away from thee the perverse mouth, and let the blasphemer be far from thee. 25. Let thine eyes look straight before thee, and let thine eyelids look right before thee. 26. Let thy foot go straight before thee, and thou shalt surely go. 27. Wilt thou not turn to the right hand, nor to the left: turn thy foot from evil. (Proverbs) Chapter 5 Warning against fornication. Exhortation to chastity. 1. My child, take heed to my wisdom; incline thine ear unto my doctrine, 2. That thou mayest keep good counsel, and that thy mouth may know the difference. 3. For the lips of the harlot are sweet as honeycomb, and her throat is smoother than oil, 4. But afterwards bitter as wormwood, and sharp as a twoedged sword. 5. their feet run down to death, their corridors attain hell. 6. She walketh not straight in the way of life: her footsteps are unsteady, that she knoweth not where she prayeth. 7. Obey me therefore, my children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. 8. Let thy ways be far from her, and not nigh unto the door of her house, 9. That thou givest not thine honour to strangers, nor thy years to the cruel, 10. Lest strangers fill themselves with thy substance, and thy labour be not in another man's house, 11. And afterward thou shalt groan, when thou hast consumed thy body and thy substance, 12. And say: Alas, how I have hated discipline, and my heart hated punishment, 13. And I have not hearkened unto the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear unto them that taught me. 14. I am come almost to all mischief in the sight of all people, and in the sight of all the nation. 15. Drink water out of thy pit, and rivers out of thy well. 16. Let thy fountains flow forth, and the rivers of water upon the streets. 17. But have them alone, and no stranger with thee. 18. Bless thy spring, and rejoice in the wife of thy youth. 19. She is as sweet as a hind, and as lovely as a deer. Let her love satisfy thee at all times, And rejoice in her love for ever. 20. My child, why wilt thou delight thyself in a stranger, and be in love with another? 21. For every man's ways are straight before the LORD, and he hath utterly rejected all their courses. 22. The iniquity of the wicked shall take him, and he shall be held with the snare of his sin. 23. He shall die, because he will not be drawn: and for his great folly it shall not be well with him. (Proverbs) Chapter 6 Warning against infidelity in trade. 1. My child, become thou surety for thy neighbour, and have thine hand arrested with a stranger, 2. so thou art bound with the speech of thy, mouth, and captive with the speeches of thy mouth. 3. Do thou therefore, my child, and save thyself: for thou art come into thy neighbour's hand: make haste, press, and drive thy neighbour. 4. Let not thine eyes sleep, nor let thine eyelids slumber. 5. Deliver thee as a deer from the hand, and as a bird from the hand of the vulture. 6. Go unto the ant, thou sluggard, behold her ways, and learn. 7. Whether she have no prince, nor captain, nor lord, 8. For she maketh her bread in summer, and gathereth her meat in harvest. 9. How long have you been lying there, lazy one? When wilt thou rise from thy sleep? 10. Yea, sleep yet a little, slumber a little, clasp thy hands together a little, that thou mayest sleep, 11. Then poverty shall overtake thee as a footman, and want as a man armed. 12. A loose man, an evil man, prayeth with a perverse mouth, 13. Beckon with eyes, point with feet, point with fingers, 14: Seeketh always evil and perverseness in his heart, and maketh strife. 15. Therefore his accident shall come upon him suddenly, and shall be broken fast, that there shall be no help. 16. These six things hateth the LORD: and in the seventh he abhorreth: 17. High eyes, false tongues, hands that shed innocent blood; 18. heart, which dealeth wickedly; feet, which are nimble to do hurt; 19. False witness, one that speaketh lies boldly, and that causeth strife between brethren. 20. My child, keep the commandments of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother. 21. Bind them together upon thy heart every way, and hang them upon thy neck: 22. When thou walkest, that they may guide thee; when thou liest down, that they may preserve thee; when thou awakest, that they may be thy conversation. 23. For the commandment is a lamp, and the law a light: and the chastening of correction is a way of life, 24. That thou mayest be preserved from the wicked woman, from the smooth tongue of strangers. 25. Let not their beauty lusteth in thine heart, neither be thou offended at their eyelids. 26. For a harlot deprivileth a man of his bread: but a wife feedeth the noble life. 27. Can any man also keep a fire in his bosom, that his garments burn not? 28. How shall a man walk upon coals, that his feet be not burned? 29. So goeth he that toucheth his neighbour's wife: there is none unpunished that toucheth her. 30. It is not so great a reproach to a thief, if he steal, to satisfy his soul, because he hunger. 31. And if he be understood, he shall restore it sevenfold, and lay up all the substance of his house. 32. But he that committeth adultery with a woman is a fool: he bringeth his life to destruction. 33. And he shall be plagued with shame, and his reproach shall not be blotted out. 34. For the wrath of man is fierce, and spareth not in the time of vengeance. 35. And looketh not on any person to make reconciliation, and receiveth not, whether thou wilt give much. (Proverbs) Chapter 7 Description of adultery and warning against it. 1. My child, keep my speech, and hide my commandments from you. 2. Keep my commandments, and thou shalt live; and keep my law as the apple of thine eye. 3. Put them on your fingers, write them on the tablet of your heart! 4. Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister, and call prudence thy friend, 5. That thou mayest be preserved from a strange woman, from another that speaketh evil words. 6. For at the window of my house I looked through the lattice, and saw among the silly ones 7. And perceived among the children a foolish youth, 8. Who walked in the street at a corner, and therefore stood in the way at her house, 9. At twilight, in the evening of the day, when it was night and dark. 10. And, behold, there met him a woman in whoredom, crafty, 11. Wild and unruly, that their feet cannot abide in their house. 12. Now she's out, now in the alley, lurking on every corner. 13. And caught him, and kissed him brazenly, and said unto him: 14. I have paid peace offerings for myself this day, for my vows. 15. Therefore I went out to meet thee, to seek thy face early, and found thee. 16. I have beautifully decorated my bed with colorful carpets from Egypt. 17. I have sprinkled my camp with myrrh, and with aloes, and with the name of tin. 18. Come, let us strive enough until the morning, and let us cultivate love; 19. For the man is not at home, he has gone a far way; 20. He has taken the money bag with him; he will not come home until the feast. 21. She persuaded him with many words, and won him in with her smooth mouth. 22. He followed her straightway, as an ox is led to a meat-box, and as to a fetter, where fools are chastened, 23. Till she split his liver with the arrow, as a bird hasteth to the rope, and knoweth not that life is for him. 24. Obey me therefore, my children, and hearken unto the words of my mouth. 25. Let not thine heart be turned aside into their way, neither let thine heart be deceived into their paths. 26. For she hath wounded and killed many, and all mighty men are slain by her. 27. Her house are ways to hell, where one goeth down into the chamber of death. (Proverbs) Chapter 8 Of the essential wisdom, the Son of God, 1. Crieth not wisdom, and prudence is heard? 2. it stands publicly by the way and by the street. 3. At the gates of the city, as one entereth in at the door, she crieth out: 4. O ye men, I cry unto you, and call unto the people! 5. Mark, ye foolish, the wit; and ye fools, take it to heart. 6. Hearken, for I will speak that which is princely, and teach that which is right. 7. For my mouth shall speak truth, and my lips shall hate that which is ungodly. 8. All the words of my mouth are righteous; there is nothing perverse or false in them. 9. They are all alike to them that hear it, and right to them that will receive it. 10. Take my discipline rather than silver, and esteem the doctrine above precious gold. 11. For wisdom is better than pearls, and all that may be desired cannot equal it. 12. I, Wisdom, dwell with the wit, and I know good counsel to give. 13. The fear of the LORD hateth evil, and pride, and arrogance, and the wicked way: and I am an enemy to the perverse mouth. 14. Both counsel and action are mine; I have understanding and might. 15. by me kings reign, and the aldermen establish justice. 16. By me the princes and all the rulers of the earth reign. 17. I love them that love me: and they that seek me early shall find me. 18. Riches and honour are with me, verily good and righteousness. 19. My fruit is better than gold and fine gold, and my revenue than choice silver. 20. I walk in the right way, in the highway of justice, 21. That I may counsel well them that love me, and fill up their treasures. 22. The LORD had me in the beginning of his ways; before he made any thing, I was there. 23. I am appointed from everlasting, from the beginning before the earth. 24. Since the deeps were not yet, I was already prepared, because the fountains were not yet welling with water, 25. Before the mountains were lowered, before the hills was I prepared. 26. He had not yet made the earth, nor the things that are therein, nor the mountains of the ground. 27. When he prepared the heavens, there was I: when he compassed the deep with his purpose, 28. When he made firm the clouds above, when he made firm the fountains of the deep, 29. When he set the purpose of the sea, and of the waters, that they should not transgress his commandment, when he laid the foundation of the earth: 30. Then was I the master of his work, and had my pleasure daily, and played before him always. 31. And played upon his ground; and my delight is with the children of men. 32. Obey me therefore, my children! Blessed are they who keep my ways! 33. Hearken unto the discipline, and be wise, and let it not go. 34. Blessed is the man that obeyeth me, that he watcheth at my door daily, that he waiteth at the posts of my door. 35. He that findeth me findeth life, and shall be well pleased of the LORD. 36. But whosoever sinneth against me hurteth his soul. All who hate me love death. (Proverbs) Chapter 9 From the wisdom of friendly invitation. 1. Wisdom built her house, and hewed seven pillars, 2. Slaughtered their cattle, and brought up their wine, and prepared their table. 3. And sent forth their harlots to charge the tops of the palaces of the city: 4. Let him that is foolish come hither. And to the fool she said: 5. Come, feed on my bread, and drink of the wine which I give. 6. Forsake the foolish things, and ye shall live; and walk in the way of understanding. 7. He that chastiseth the scorner shall be put to shame: and he that chastiseth the wicked shall be put to scorn. 8. Punish not the scoffer, he hateth thee: punish the wise, he shall love thee. 9. Give unto the wise, and he shall be yet wiser: teach the righteous, and he shall increase in doctrine. 10. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and understanding teacheth that which is holy. 11. For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. 12. If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise unto thyself: if thou be a scoffer, thou shalt bear it alone. 13. But she is a foolish woman, a wild woman, full of babbling, and knoweth nothing; 14. Who sitteth in the door of her house upon the chair, up in the city, 15. To invite all who pass by and walk right in their ways. 16. He that is foolish, let him come hither. And to the fool she saith: 17. the hidden waters are sweet and the hidden bread is cute. 18. But he knoweth not that there are dead men there, and that their guests are in the depths of hell. (Proverbs) Chapter 10 Of justice. 1. These are the sayings of Solomon. A wise son is his father's delight: but a foolish son is his mother's grief. 2. Unrighteousness profiteth not: but righteousness delivereth from death. 3. The LORD suffereth not the soul of the righteous to hunger: but he overthroweth the oppression of the wicked. 4. The lazy hand maketh poor: but the diligent hand maketh rich. 5. He that gathereth in summer is wise: but he that sleepeth in harvest is put to shame. 6. The blessing is upon the head of the righteous: but the mouth of the wicked shall be overtaken with their iniquity. 7. The memory of the righteous remaineth in blessing: but the name of the wicked shall rot. 8. He that is wise in heart receiveth the commandments: but he that hath a fool's mouth shall be smitten. 9. He that liveth innocently liveth safely: but he that is perverse in his ways shall be made manifest. 10. He that winketh with his eyes shall be troubled: and he that hath a fool's mouth shall be smitten. 11. The mouth of the righteous is a living fountain: but the mouth of the wicked shall be overtaken with their iniquities. 12. Hatred causeth strife: but love covereth all transgressions. 13. In the lips of the prudent is wisdom: but upon the back of the fool is a rod. 14. The wise keep the doctrine: but the mouth of fools is nigh unto terror. 15. The rich man's good is his strong city: but poverty maketh the poor foolish, 16. The righteous have need of his substance to live: but the wicked have need of his substance to sin. 17. To keep discipline is the way to life: but he that forsaketh punishment, the same goeth astray. 18. False mouths cover hatred: and he that slandereth is a fool. 19. Where words are many, there is no sin: but he that keepeth his lips is wise. 20. The tongue of the righteous is silver, but the heart of the wicked is nothing. 21. The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools shall die in their folly. 22. The blessing of the LORD maketh rich without trouble. 23. A fool doeth wickedness, and hath his mockery: but the man is wise that heareth it. 24. That which the wicked feareth shall come upon him: and that which the righteous desireth shall be given unto them. 25. The wicked is as the weather, which passeth away, and is no more: but the righteous endureth for ever. 26. As vinegar is to the teeth, and smoke to the eyes, so doth the sluggard to them that send him. 27. The fear of the LORD increaseth days: but the years of the wicked are shortened. 28. The waiting of the righteous shall be joy: but the hope of the wicked shall be lost. 29. The way of the LORD is the stouthearted: but the transgressors are foolish. 30. The righteous shall never be overthrown: but the wicked shall not abide in the land. 31. The mouth of the righteous bringeth wisdom: but the mouth of the perverse is cut off. 32. The lips of the righteous teach wholesome things: but the mouth of the wicked is perverse. (Proverbs) Chapter 11 More distant doctrine of justice, its benefits and obstacles. 1. False scales are an abomination unto the LORD: but a perfect weight is his delight. 2. Where pride is, there is shame: but wisdom is with the humble. 3. innocence shall guide the pious; but wickedness shall disturb the scornful. 4. Good helpeth not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. 5. The righteousness of the upright maketh his way straight: but the wicked shall fall by his wickedness. 6. The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but the scornful shall be snared in their wickedness. 7. When the wicked man dieth, hope is lost; and the waiting of the unrighteous is brought to nought. 8. The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked is put in his place. 9. By the mouth of the hypocrite his neighbour is destroyed: but the righteous know it, and are saved. 10. A city rejoiceth when the righteous prosper: and when the wicked perish, it is glad. 11. By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted: but by the mouth of the wicked it is broken down. 12. He that dishonoureth his neighbour is a fool: but a man that hath understanding quieteth it. 13. A slanderer betrayeth that which he knoweth secretly: but he that is of a faithful heart hideth the same. 14. Where there is no counsel, the people perish: but where there is much counsel, the people prosper. 15. He that is a surety for another shall be in danger: but he that isware of vows is safe. 16. A fair woman receiveth honour: but tyrants receive riches. 17. A merciful man doeth good to his body: but an unmerciful man grieveth also his flesh and blood. 18. The work of the wicked shall fail: but he that soweth righteousness is surely good. 19. For righteousness increaseth unto life: but to pursue after evil increaseth unto death. 20. The LORD hath abhorred of the perverse in heart, and is well pleased with the upright. 21. Though they put all their hands together, it profiteth not the wicked: but the seed of the righteous shall be saved. 22. A fair woman without breeding is like a sow with a golden headband. 23. The desire of the righteous is a good thing: but the hope of the wicked is a calamity. 24. One distributeth, and hath more and more: another spareth, when he ought not, and yet becometh poorer. 25. The soul that blesseth abundantly becometh fat: and he that maketh drunk shall be drunken. 26. He that keepeth corn, men curse him: but blessing cometh upon him that selleth it. 27. To him that seeketh good things shall good things come: but to him that seeketh evil things shall evil things come. 28. He that trusteth in his riches shall perish: but the righteous shall flourish like a leaf. 29. He that grieveth his own house shall have wind for an inheritance: and a fool shall be the servant of a wise man. 30. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life: and a wise man taketh heartily to his people. 31. If the righteous suffer on earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner! (Proverbs) Chapter 12 Useful rules of life and sayings. 1. He that loveth to be punished shall be wise: but he that loveth to be unpunished shall be a fool. 2. He that is pious receiveth comfort from the LORD: but a reprobate condemneth himself. 3. An ungodly man shall not prosper: but the root of the righteous shall abide. 4. A diligent woman is a crown to her husband: but an un-diligent woman is a pus in his bones. 5. The thoughts of the righteous are upright: but the devices of the wicked are deceitfulness. 6. The preaching of the wicked maketh bloodshed: but the mouth of the upright delivereth. 7. The wicked shall be overthrown, and shall be no more: but the house of the righteous shall stand. 8. The counsel of a wise man is praised: but the wiles are put to shame. 9. He that is little, and waiteth for his own, is better than he that is great, who lacketh bread. 10. The righteous have mercy on their cattle: but the heart of the wicked is unmerciful. 11. He that tilleth his field shall have bread in abundance: but he that followeth after vain things is a fool. 12. The pleasure of the wicked is to do hurt: but the root of the righteous shall bring forth fruit. 13. The wicked is taken in his own false words: but the righteous escapeth from fear. 14. Much good cometh by the fruit of the mouth: and a man is recompensed according to the merit of his hands. 15. A fool's way is pleasing: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise. 16. A fool showeth his wrath quickly: but he that bringeth shame is witty. 17. He that is true speaketh freely what is right: but a false witness deceiveth. 18. He that goeth forth carelessly stingeth as a sword: but the tongue of the wise is healing. 19. A true mouth endureth for ever: but a false tongue endureth not long. 20. They that counsel evil deceive: but they that counsel peace make glad. 21. There shall be no hurt to the righteous: but the wicked shall be full of trouble. 22. False mouths are an abomination unto the LORD: but they that do faithfully please him. 23. A man of wit pretendeth not wisdom: but the heart of fools calleth out his foolishness. 24. The diligent hand shall rule: but he that is lax shall bear interest. 25. Care in the heart grieveth; but a kind word rejoiceth. 26. The righteous is better than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked deceiveth them. 27. A slack man's trade profiteth him not: but an industrious man shall be rich. 28. In the right way is life, and in the path that is made straight there is no death. (Proverbs) Chapter 13 Distant Rules of Life. 1. A wise son suffereth his father to chasten him: but a scoffer obeyeth not the chastisement. 2. The fruit of the mouth is enjoyed; but the despisers think only to do wrong. 3. He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that goeth out with his mouth cometh to terror. 4. The lazy man desireth, and getteth not: but the diligent getteth enough. 5. The righteous is an enemy to falsehood: but the wicked profaneth and reproacheth himself. 6. Righteousness keepeth the innocent: but ungodliness bringeth one to sin. 7. Some are poor by great goods; and some are rich by their poverty. 8. With riches a man may save his life: but a poor man heareth not rebuke. 9. The light of the righteous maketh glad: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. 10. Among the proud there is always strife: but wisdom maketh wise men. 11. Wealth is little where it is wasted: but that which is gathered together is great. 12. Hope consumeth the heart: but when it cometh to be desired, it is a tree of life. 13. He that despiseth the word corrupteth himself: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. 14. the teaching of the wise is a living fountain, to avoid the snares of death. 15. Good counsel doeth good: but the way of the scornful bringeth woe. 16. A wise man doeth all things with understanding: but a fool spreadeth folly. 17. An ungodly messenger bringeth evil: but a faithful wooer is wholesome. 18. He that forsaketh discipline hath poverty and dishonour: he that is glad to be punished shall be honoured. 19. When that which is desired cometh, it is good for the heart: but he that shuneth evil is an abomination to fools. 20. He that walketh with the wise shall be wise: but he that is the companion of fools shall have misfortune. 21. Adversity pursueth the sinner: but the righteous shall be recompensed. 22. The good man shall inherit for his child, but the good of the sinner shall be given to the righteous. 23. There is much food in the furrows of the poor: but they that do wrong perish. 24. He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him quickly. 25. The righteous eateth, that his soul may be full: but the belly of the wicked is never full. (Proverbs) Chapter 14 Praise for cleverness in human life. 1. By wise women is the house built up; but a foolish woman breaketh it up with her doings. 2. He that feareth the LORD walketh in the paths of righteousness: but he that despiseth him goeth out of his way. 3. fools speak tyrannically; but the wise keep their mouths. 4. Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean: but where the ox is busy, there is much revenue. 5. A faithful witness doth not lie: but a false witness speaketh lies deceitfully. 6. The scoffer seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that hath understanding. 7. Depart from the fool: for thou learnest nothing of him. 8. This is the wisdom of the prudent, that he take heed to his way: but this is the folly of fools, that it is vain deceit with them. 9. Fools make a mockery of sin: but the pious delight in the pious. 10. When the heart is sad, outward joy is of no avail. 11. The house of the wicked shall be destroyed: but the tabernacle of the upright shall be green. 12. There is a way that pleaseth many a man, but at length it bringeth him to death. 13. after laughter comes mourning, and after joy comes sorrow. 14. A slack man shall do as he doeth: but a pious man shall be over him. 15. a silly man believes everything; but a witty man takes note of his walk. 16. A wise man feareth, and avoideth evil: but a fool goeth through it foolishly. 17. An impatient man doeth foolishly: but a thoughtful man hateth it. 18. The foolish inherit folly; but it is the crown of the witty to act prudently. 19. The wicked must bow down before the good, and the wicked within the gates of the righteous. 20. A poor man also hateth his neighbours: but the rich have many friends. 21. The sinner despiseth his neighbour: but blessed is he that hath mercy on the poor. 22. They that work wicked schemes shall fall short: but they that do good shall have faithfulness and goodness. 23. Where one worketh, there is enough: but where one dealeth in words, there is want. 24. To the wise their riches are a crown: but the folly of fools is folly. 25. A faithful witness saveth life: but a false witness deceiveth. 26. He that feareth the LORD hath a strong hold, and his children also are protected. 27. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, that men may avoid the snares of death. 28. Where a king hath much people, that is his glory: but where there is little people, that maketh a lord foolish. 29. He that is patient is wise: but he that is impatient revealeth his folly. 30. A kind heart is the life of the body: but envy is pus in the legs. 31. He that doeth violence to the poor blasphemeth his Maker: but he that hath mercy on the poor honoureth GOD, 32. The wicked endureth not in his calamity: but the righteous is confident even in his death. 33. Wisdom resteth in the heart of the prudent, and is made manifest among fools. 34. Righteousness exalteth a people: but sin is the destruction of men. 35. A wise servant is pleasing in the sight of the king; but a wicked servant is an enemy to him. (Proverbs) Chapter 15 The effect of prudence. Means to guard against sins. 1. A gentle answer quencheth wrath; but a harsh word maketh fury. 2. The tongue of the wise loveth doctrine: the mouth of fools speaketh folly. 3. The eyes of the LORD behold in all places both the wicked and the righteous. 4. A wholesome tongue is a tree of life; but a lying tongue maketh her 5. The fool blasphemeth his father's discipline: but he that receiveth punishment shall be wise. 6. In the house of the righteous there is good enough, but in the income of the wicked there is destruction. 7. The mouth of the wise scattereth good counsel: but the heart of the fool is not so. 8. The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination unto the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is acceptable unto him. 9. The way of the wicked is abomination to the LORD: but he that followeth after righteousness shall be loved. 10. This is evil discipline, to forsake the way: and he that hateth the punishment shall die. 11. Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more the hearts of men! 12. The scoffer loveth not him that reproveth him, neither goeth he to the wise. 13. A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but when the heart is troubled, then the courage falleth. 14. A prudent heart dealeth prudently: but bold fools rule foolishly. 15. A sorrowful man never hath a good day: but a good courage is a daily prosperity. 16. It is better to have the fear of the LORD a little, than great treasure, wherein is unrest. 17. Better is a dish of herbs with love, than a fatted bullock with hatred. 18. A man that is wroth maketh strife: but a man that is patient stilleth strife. 19. The way of the slothful is thorny: but the path of the upright is well prepared. 20. A wise son maketh his father glad: and a foolish man is a reproach to his mother. 21. Folly is a joy to a fool: but a man of understanding keepeth the right way. 22. The plots come to nought where there is no counsel; but where there is much counsel, they stand. 23. It is a joy to one where he is answered aright; and a word in his season is very sweet. 24. The way of life is to make wise above, that one may avoid hell beneath. 25. The LORD will break up the house of the proud, and confirm the border of widows. . 26. The plots of the wicked are an abomination unto the LORD: but the pure speak comfortably. 27. The covetous man hateth his own house: but he that hateth the gift shall live. 28. The heart of the righteous deviseth what is to be answered: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil. 29. The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous. 30. A pleasant sight maketh the heart glad: a good report maketh the bones fat. 31. The ear that heareth the sentence of life shall dwell among the wise. 32. He that suffereth not himself to be drawn, destroyeth himself: but he that heareth punishment, becometh wise. 33. The fear of the LORD is discipline unto wisdom: and before a man is honoured, he must first suffer. (Proverbs) Chapter 16 Of God's providence and government, and man's duty. 1. Man setteth it before him in his heart; but from the LORD cometh that which the tongue shall speak. 2. Every man's ways seem pure unto him: but the LORD only maketh the heart sure. 3. Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thine ordinances shall continue. 4. The LORD maketh all things for his own sake, even the wicked for an evil day. 5. A proud heart is an abomination unto the LORD, and shall not go unpunished, though they all cleave one to another. 6. By goodness and faithfulness iniquity is reconciled; and by the fear of the LORD evil is avoided. 7. If a man's ways please the LORD, he will also please his enemies with him. 8. it is better to have little with justice than much income with injustice. 9. The heart of man beateth in his way, but the LORD only giveth to go his way. 10. Divination is in the mouth of the king: his mouth shall not fail in judgment. 11. Right scales and weights are of the LORD; and all the pounds in the sack are his works. 12. To do wrong in the sight of kings is an abomination: for by righteousness the throne is established. 13. Right counsel pleaseth kings: and he that counteth rightly is loved. 14. The king's wrath is a messenger of death: but a wise man shall make reconciliation for him. 15. If the king's face be gracious, it is life: and his mercy is as the evening rain. 16. Receive wisdom; for it is better than gold, and to have understanding is more precious than silver. 17. The way of the upright avoideth evil: and he that keepeth his way keepeth his life. 18. He that shall perish shall first be proud: and proud courage goeth before a fall. 19. It is better to be lowly in heart with the wretched, than to deal plunder with the proud. 20. He that leadeth a matter wisely findeth happiness: and good is he that trusteth in the LORD. 21. A man of understanding is praised for a wise man; and pleasant speeches teach well. 22. Prudence is a living fountain to him that hath it: but the discipline of fools is folly. 23. A wise heart speaketh wisely, and teacheth well. 24. The speeches of the kind are honeycomb, they comfort the soul, and refresh the bones. 25. Many a way pleaseth well; but his last reacheth unto death. 26. Many a man cometh to great misfortune by his own mouth. 27: A loose man digs for mischief, and fire burns in his mouth. 28. A perverse man causeth strife, and a slanderer maketh princes divided. 29. A wicked man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him not into a good way. 30. He that beckoneth with his eyes thinketh not good: and he that signifieth with his lips doeth evil. 31. Gray hairs are a crown of honors found in the way of righteousness. 32. A patient man is better than a strong man, and he that is master of his own strength than he that triumpheth over cities. 33. The lot is cast into the bosom; but it falleth according to the will of the LORD. (Proverbs) Chapter 17 Of untimely quarrels and strife. 1. A dry morsel to be satisfied with is better than a house full of slaughter with strife. 2. A wise servant shall rule over indolent heirs, and shall divide the inheritance among the brethren. 3. As the fire is to silver, and the furnace to gold, so the LORD trieth the heart. 4. A wicked man hearkeneth unto evil mouths, and a false man loveth to obey pernicious tongues. 5. He that mocketh the needy scorneth his Maker: and he that rejoiceth in his mischief shall not go unpunished. 6. The crown of the ancients are their children, and the glory of the children are their fathers. 7. It is not fitting for a fool to speak of high things, much less for a prince to lie. 8. He that hath a gift is as a precious stone: whithersoever he turneth, he is esteemed wise. 9. He that covereth sin maketh friends: but he that stirreth up matters maketh princes divided. 10. A rebuke is more grievous to a man of understanding, than an hundred blows to a fool. 11. A bitter man seeketh to do harm: but a cruel angel shall come upon him. 12. It is better to meet a bear whose cubs are stolen, than a fool in his folly. 13. He that repayeth good with evil shall not depart from his house. 14. He that beginneth strife is like unto him that breaketh up the dam of the waters. Thou shalt cease from strife, ere thou be mixed therein. 15. He that justifieth the wicked, and condemneth the righteous, are both an abomination to the LORD. 16. What shall money in the hand of a fool buy wisdom, if he be a fool? 17. A friend loveth always, and a brother is found in trouble. 18. It is a fool that pledges himself to the hand, and becomes surety for his neighbour. 19. He that loveth strife loveth sin: and he that lifteth up his door calamities. 20. A perverse heart findeth no good: and he that is of a perverse tongue shall fall into mischief. 21. He that begetteth a fool hath sorrow; and the father of a fool hath no joy. 22. A merry heart maketh life merry: but a sorrowful spirit drieth the bones. 23. The wicked taketh gifts secretly, to bend the way of righteousness. 24. A man of understanding behaves wisely; a fool casts his eyes to and fro. 25. A foolish son is his father's mourning, and grief to his mother that bare him. 26. It is not good that the righteous should be oppressed, to smite the prince that ruleth aright. 27. A man of understanding moderates his speech, and a man of understanding is a dear soul. 28. A fool, if he held his peace, would also be counted wise, and have understanding, if he held his peace. (Proverbs) Chapter 18 Of breaking up good friends. 1. He that separateth himself seeketh after that which he lusteth after, and setteth himself against all that is good. 2. a fool does not delight in his mind, but in what is in his heart. 3. Where the wicked goeth, there cometh contempt and reproach with scorn. 4. The words in one mouth are as deep waters, and the fountain of wisdom is a full stream. 5. It is not good to respect the person of the wicked, to bow down the righteous in judgment. 6. The lips of the fool bring forth strife, and his mouth crieth for blows. 7. The mouth of a fool doeth harm unto himself, and his lips do wrong unto his own soul. 8. the words of the slanderer are blows and go through one's heart. 9. He that is slack in his work is a brother to him that doeth his own work. 10. The name of the LORD is a stronghold: the righteous walketh therein, and is protected. 11. The rich man's goods are unto him a strong city, and as a high wall round about him. 12. If a man perish, his heart is proud first: and before he is honoured, he suffereth first. 13. He that answereth before he heareth is foolish and ashamed. 14. He that hath a merry heart knoweth how to bear himself in his affliction: but if courage lie, who can bear it? 15; An understanding heart knows how to keep itself sensible, and the wise hear gladly that one acts sensibly. 16. the gift of man makes room for him and brings him before the great lords. 17. The righteous is sure of his cause beforehand; and when his neighbour cometh, he findeth him so. 18. The lot setteth the strife, and divideth between the mighty. 19. A brother that is wounded is stronger than a strong city; and strife is stronger than the bars of the palace. 20. A man shall be recompensed according to that which his mouth hath spoken, and shall be satisfied with the fruit of his lips. 21. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: he that loveth it shall eat of the fruit thereof. 22. He that findeth a wife findeth good, and getteth favour of the LORD. 23. a poor man speaks with supplication; a rich man answers proudly. 24. A faithful friend loveth more, and standeth stronger than a brother. (Proverbs) Chapter 19 Of contempt of the poor and moderation of wrath. 1. A poor man that walketh in his piety is better than a perverse man with his lips, who is yet a fool. 2. Where a man dealeth not wisely, it is not well: and he that is swift with his feet doeth hurt. 3. The folly of a man leadeth him astray, because his heart rageth against the LORD. 4. good makes many friends; but the poor man is forsaken by his friends. 5. A false witness shall not go unpunished; and he that speaketh lies boldly shall not escape. 6. many wait for the person of the prince, and are all friends of him that giveth gifts. 7. All his brethren hate the poor man, and his friends also are far from him: and he that trusteth in words shall not prosper, 8. He that is wise loveth his life: and he that hath understanding findeth good. 9. A false witness shall not go unpunished; and he that speaketh lies boldly shall perish. 10. It is not fitting for a fool to have good days, much less for a servant to rule over princes. 11. He that is patient is a wise man, and is honest to him, that he may overhear iniquity. 12. The king's displeasure is as the roaring of a young lion: but his mercy is as dew upon the grass. 13. A foolish son is his father's heartache, and a quarrelsome wife a continual torment. 14. Houses and goods are inherited of parents: but a wife of understanding cometh of the LORD. 15. laziness brings sleep, and a lax soul will suffer hunger. 16. He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his life: but he that despiseth his way shall die. 17. He that hath mercy on the poor lendeth unto the LORD, and he shall repay him with good. 18. Chasten thy son, because there is hope; but let not thy soul be moved to slay him. 19. For great wrath bringeth evil: therefore let him go, and thou mayest chasten him more. 20. Obey the counsel, and receive correction, that thou mayest be wise hereafter. 21. There are many counsels in a man's heart: but the counsel of the LORD standeth still. 22. A man lusteth by his goodness: and a poor man is better than a liar. 23. The fear of the LORD bringeth forth life, and shall be satisfied, that no evil shall afflict it. 24. The slothful man hideth his hand in the pot, and bringeth it not again to his mouth. 25. If a scoffer be beaten, the foolish man is made merry: if a man be punished, he is made wise. 26. He that putteth away his father, and chaseth his mother, is an unclean and accursed child. 27. Cease, my son, to hear the chastening that leadeth away from sound doctrine. 28. A loose witness mocketh the law, and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity. 29. Punishments are prepared for the scoffers, and smitings for the backs of fools. (Proverbs) Chapter 20 Warning against gluttony and drunkenness. 1. Wine maketh froward, and strong drink maketh wild: he that lusteth after it never becometh wise. 2. The terror of the king is as the roaring of a young lion: he that enrages him sinneth against his life. 3. It is a man's honour to be at strife: but they that love to strive are all fools. 4. Because of the cold the lazy man will not plow; so he must beg in the harvest, and get nothing. 5. The counsel of a man's heart is as deep waters: but a man of understanding knoweth what he meaneth. 6. Many men are called righteous: but who shall find one that is righteously righteous? 7. A righteous man that walketh in his piety, his children shall prosper after him. 8. A king that sitteth upon the throne to judge scattereth all evil with his eyes. 9. Who can say, I am pure in heart, and clean from my sin? 10. Many weights and measures are both abomination unto the LORD. 11. A man also knoweth a child by his character, whether he will be pious and upright. 12. An ear that heareth, and an eye that seeth; the LORD maketh them both. 13. Love not sleep, lest thou be poor: let thine eyes be open, and thou shalt have bread. 14. Evil, evil, say they, when they have it; but when it is gone, praise it. 15. There is gold and much pearl: but a reasonable mouth is a precious jewel. 16. Take away the garment of him that is a surety for another, and seize him for the sake of him that is not known. 17. The bread that is stolen is good for every man: but afterward his mouth shall be full of pebbles. 18. Proposals stand, if they be made with counsel: and war shall be made with discretion. 19. Be not sworn with him that revealeth secrecy, and with the slanderer, and with the false-mouthed. 20. Whosoever curseth his father and his mother, his light shall be put out in the midst of darkness. 21. The inheritance, which at the first is much sought after, shall not be blessed at the last. 22. Say not, I will repay evil. Wait for the LORD, and he will help thee. 23. Many weights are an abomination unto the LORD, and false scales are not good. 24. Every man's walk is from the LORD. What man understandeth his way? 25. It is a snare unto a man to blaspheme that which is holy, and after that to seek vows. 26. A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel upon them. 27. The lamp of the LORD is the breath of man: it passeth through the whole heart. 28. Piety and truth keep the king, and his throne is established by piety. 29. The strength of the young is their price; and the gray hair is the ornament of the aged. 30. The wicked must be restrained with severe punishment, and with sore blows that are felt. (Proverbs) Chapter 21 By God's gracious government. 1. The . The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water; and he inclineth it whithersoever he will. 2. Every man's way seemeth right unto him: but the LORD only maketh hearts sure. 3. To do good and to do right is better in the sight of the LORD than sacrifice. 4. Prideful eyes, and proud courage, and the light of the wicked, is sin. 5. The smitings of an endued one bring abundance: but he that is too light shall be in want. 6. He that gathereth treasure with lies shall fall short, and fall among them that seek death. 7. The robbery of the wicked shall be a reproach unto them: for they would not do that which was right. 8. He that walketh in another way is perverse: but he that walketh in his commandment is righteous. 9. It is better to dwell in the corner of the house upon the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a house together. 10. The soul of the wicked desireth evil, and grudgeth not his neighbour. 11. When the scoffer is punished, the foolish become wise; and when a wise man is taught, he becomes sensible. 12. The righteous keepeth himself wisely against the house of the wicked: but the wicked thinketh only to do harm. 13. He that stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, the same shall cry, and not be heard. 14. A secret gift quencheth wrath; and a gift in the bosom quencheth fierce anger. 15. It is a joy to the righteous to do what is right, but a fear to evildoers. 16. A man that erreth from the way of wisdom abideth in the congregation of the dead. 17. He that loveth lust shall lack; and he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. 18. The wicked must be given for the righteous, and the scornful for the pious. 19. It is better to dwell in a desolate land than with a contentious and angry woman. 20. In the house of the wise is a goodly treasure and oil, but a fool maketh it waste. 21. He who pursues mercy and goodness finds life, mercy and honor. 22. A wise man taketh the city of the mighty, and overthroweth their power by their safety. 23. He that keepeth his mouth and tongue keepeth his soul from fear. 24. He that is proud and presumptuous is called a loose man, that showeth pride in anger. 25. The slothful man dieth over his desires: for his hands will do nothing. 26. He desireth daily; but the righteous giveth, and faileth not. 27. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination: for they are offered in sins. 28. A lying witness shall perish: but he that obeyeth shall always be heard again. 29. The wicked goeth through with his head: but he that is righteous shall stand. 30. No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel, can avail against the LORD. 31. Horses are prepared for the day of battle: but the victory is of the LORD. (Proverbs) Chapter 22 Of good report and name, whereby he is obtained and prevented. 1. Rumour is more precious than great riches, and favour better than silver and gold. 2. Rich and poor must be one with another: the LORD hath made them all. 3. the funny man sees the misfortune and hides himself; the silly go through and are damaged. 4. Wherever there is suffering in the fear of the LORD, there is riches and honour and life. 5. There are thorns and cords in the way of the wicked: but he that is fenced from them preserveth his life. 6. As a boy is accustomed, so he will not leave it when he is old. 7. The rich ruleth over the poor, and he that boreth is the servant of the hireling. 8. He that soweth iniquity shall reap trouble, and shall perish with the rod of his wickedness. 9. A good eye is blessed: for he giveth his bread to the poor. 10. Cast out the scorner, and the quarrel shall be put away: then cease from strife and reproach. 11. A friend of the king is he that hath a true heart and a kind speech. 12. The eyes of the LORD keep good counsel: but the words of the scorner he turneth back. 13. The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I would be slain in the street. 14. The mouth of the harlot is a deep pit: whosoever the LORD displeaseth shall fall into it. 15. Folly is in the heart of the child: but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him. 16. Whosoever shall wrong the poor, that his goods may be much, the same shall give to the rich, and shall lack. 17. Incline thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and take my teaching to heart. 18. For it shall do thee good to keep them with thee, and they shall prosper together at thy mouth, 19. That thy hope may be in the LORD. I must daily remind thee of these things for thy good. 20. Have I not enjoined thee manifoldly with counsels and doctrines? 21. That I might shew thee a certain ground of truth, that thou mightest answer rightly them that send thee? 22. Rob not the poor, though he be poor; neither oppress the wretched in the gate; 23. For the LORD shall deal with their cause, and shall subdue their trespassers. 24. Be not thou a man of wrath, neither be thou a fierce man; 25. Thou wilt learn his way, and thou wilt give offence to thy soul. 26. Be not with them that arrest their hand, and become sureties for iniquity; 27. For where thou hast it not to pay, they shall take away thy bed from under thee. 28. Drive not back the former bounds which thy fathers made. 29. When thou seest a man at length in his business, he shall stand before kings, and shall not stand before the base. (Proverbs) Chapter 23 Of temperance in eating and drinking. 1. When thou sittest and eatest with a lord, mark whom thou hast before thee, 2. And put a knife to thy throat, if thou wilt keep life. 3. desire not his food, for it is false bread. 4. Seek not to be rich, and leave off thy little bundles. 5. Let not thine eyes fly unto that which thou canst not have: for the same maketh him wings like an eagle, and biddeth for the heavens. 6. Eat not bread with an envious man, neither desire thou his meat. 7. For he is like a ghost within. He saith, Eat and drink; and yet his heart is not in thee. 8. Thy morsels which thou hast eaten thou must spit out, and must have lost thy kind words. 9. Not in the ears of a fool, for he despiseth the wisdom of thy words. 10. Drive not back the former borders, and go not into the orphans' field. 11. For their Redeemer is mighty; he shall accomplish their cause against thee. 12. Give thine heart to discipline, and thine ears to reasonable speech. 13. Cease not to chasten the lad: for where thou chastenest him with the rod, it is not lawful to kill him. 14. Thou smitest him with the rod; but thou savest his soul from hell. 15. My son, if thou be wise, my heart also rejoiceth; 16. And my kidneys are glad when thy lips speak what is right. 17. Let not thine heart follow sinners, but be thou daily in the fear of the LORD. 18. For it shall be well with thee hereafter, and thy waiting shall not fail. 19. Hear, my son, and be wise, and direct thine heart into the way. 20. Be not among drunkards and gluttons; 21. For the drunkard and the glutton are made poor, and a sleeper must wear torn garments. 22. Obey thy father which begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old. 23. Buy truth and do not sell it, wisdom, discipline and understanding. 24. A father of the righteous rejoiceth, and he that hath begotten a wise man rejoiceth. 25. Let thy father and thy mother rejoice and be glad, which begat thee. 26. Give me, my son, thy heart, and let thine eyes be well pleased with my ways. 27. For a harlot is a deep pit, and an adulteress is a narrow pit. 28. She also lieth in wait like a robber, and gathereth unto her the insolent of men. 29. where is woe? Where is sorrow? Where is strife? Where is lamentation? Where are wounds without cause? Where are red eyes? 30. namely, where one lies with the wine and comes to drink up what is poured. 31. Look not on the wine, because it is red, and standeth so fair in the glass. It is smooth; 32. But afterward he bites like a serpent, and stings like an adder. 33. Then thine eyes shall look for other consecrations, and thine heart shall speak perverse things, 34. And thou shalt be as one that sleepeth in the midst of the sea, and as one that sleepeth upon the top of the mast. 35. They beat me, but it hurt me not: they knock me, but I feel it not. When will I wake up, that I may do it more? (Proverbs) Chapter 24 Of patience and tolerance. 1. do not follow evil people and do not desire to be with them. 2. For their heart seeketh after mischief, and their lips counsel evil. 3. By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is preserved. 4. By proper stewardship the chambers become full of all delicious and lovely riches. 5. A wise man is strong, and a prudent man is mighty in strength. 6. For with counsel is war: and where there is much counsel, there is victory. 7. Wisdom is too high for a fool; he may not open his mouth in the gate. 8. He that doeth himself harm is called an arch wicked man. 9. The fool's guile is sin: and the scoffer is an abomination in the sight of men. 10. He is not strong that is not steadfast in adversity. 11. Deliver them that are about to be slain, and withdraw not thyself from them that are about to be strangled. 12. Sayest thou, Behold, we understand not: thinkest thou not that he that knoweth the heart knoweth it, and he that regardeth the soul knoweth it, and rewardeth a man according to his work? 13. Eat, my son, honey: for it is good; and the honeycomb is sweet in thy throat. 14. Learn therefore wisdom for thy soul. If thou find it, thou shalt prosper hereafter, and thy hope shall not be in vain. 15. Lurk not, as an ungodly man, at the house of the righteous; disturb not his rest. 16. For the righteous falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked sink into mischief. 17. Rejoice not in the fall of thine enemy, neither let thine heart be glad in his calamity; 18. Let the LORD see it, and be displeased with him, and turn away his wrath from him. 19. Be not angry with the wicked, and jealous not with the ungodly; 20. For the wicked hath no hope, and the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. 21. My child, fear the LORD and the king, and mingle not with the rebellious. 22. For their calamity shall be sudden; and who knoweth when both calamities shall come? 23. This also comes from the wise: To look at the person in judgment is not good. 24. Whosoever saith unto the wicked, Thou art righteous; men curse him, and the people hate him. 25. But they that punish are well pleased, and a rich blessing cometh upon them. 26. A right answer is like a sweet kiss. 27. Set thy business without, and work thy field; afterward build thine house. 28. Be not a witness without a cause against thy neighbour, and deceive not with thy mouth. 29. Say not, As one doeth unto me, so will I do again, and repay every man his work. 30. I went before the field of the slothful, and before the vineyard of the fool, 31. And, behold, there were nettles in it, and thistles full, and the wall was fallen down. 32. And when I saw it, I took it to heart, and looked, and learned. 33. Thou wilt sleep a little, and slumber a little, and put thy hands together a little, that thou mayest rest; 34. But thy poverty shall come unto thee as a wayfarer, and thy want as a man armed. (Proverbs) Chapter 25 Honor and glory as wisdom's reward, to whom it is due. 1. These also are the sayings of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah added unto them. 2. It is the glory of God to conceal a matter: but the glory of kings is to search out a matter. 3. The heavens are high, and the earth is low: but the heart of the king is unsearchable. 4. Put the foam from the silver, and it shall be a pure vessel. 5. Let the king's wickedness be done, and his throne shall be established with righteousness. 6. range not before the king, and enter not into the place of the great. 7. For it is better for thee that it should be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be humbled before the prince, that thine eyes should see. 8. Go not forth soon to quarrel: for what wilt thou do hereafter, when thou hast defiled thy neighbour? 9. Handle thy business with thy neighbour, and reveal not another's secrecy, 10. Lest he that heareth it speak evil of thee, and let not thy evil report cease. 11. A word spoken in his season is as apples of gold in bowls of silver. 12. He that punisheth a wise man that obeyeth him is as a golden headband, and as a golden collar. 13. As the cold of the snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to him that sent him, and restoreth his lord's soul. 14. He that speaketh much, and keepeth not, is as clouds and wind without rain; 15. By patience a prince is reconciled, and a gentle tongue breaketh hardness. 16. If thou find honey, eat enough of it, that thou be not full, and spit it out. 17. Remove thy foot from thy neighbour's house: for he is weary of thee, and hateth thee. 18. He that speaketh false witness against his neighbour is a spear, and a sword, and a sharp arrow. 19. The hope of the despiser in time of trouble is as a rotten tooth and a slippery foot. 20. He that sings songs to an evil heart is as a torn garment in winter, and vinegar upon the chalk. 21. If thine enemy hunger, feed him with bread; if he thirst, give him drink of water. 22. For thou shalt heap coals upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee. 23. The north wind bringeth tempests, and the secret tongue maketh the face sour. 24. It is better to sit on the housetop in a corner than to sit in a house with a quarrelsome woman. 25. a good rumor from distant lands in like cold water to a thirsty soul. 26. A righteous man falling before an ungodly man is as a turbid well and a corrupt fountain. 27. He that eateth too much honey is not good; and he that searcheth after heavy things is heavy. 28. A man that cannot keep his spirit is like an open city without walls. (Proverbs) Chapter 26 Which people are not worthy of honor. 1. As the snow in summer, and the rain in harvest, so the fool's honour rhymeth not. 2. As a bird passeth by, and a swallow flew, so an undeserved curse doth not meet. 3. A whip for the horse, and a bridle for the ass; and a rod for the fool's back. 4. Answer not the fool with his foolishness, lest thou also be like him. 5. But answer the fool according to his folly, lest he be thought wise. 6. He that doeth a thing by a foolish messenger is as a lame man in his feet, and taketh hurt. 7. As it is for a cripple to dance, so it is for fools to speak of wisdom. 8. Whoso putteth honour upon a fool, it is as if one cast a jewel upon the raven stone. 9. A saying in a fool's mouth is like a thorn pricked in a drunken man's hand. 10. A good master maketh a thing right: but he that maketh a bungler maketh it vile. 11. As a dog eateth his spittle again, so is the fool that worketh his folly again. . 12. When thou seest one that thinketh himself wise, there is more hope in a fool than in him. 13. The lazy man saith, There is a young lion in the way, and a lion in the streets. 14. a lazy man turns in the best as the door in the hinge. 15. The slothful man hideth his hand in the pot, and is sore displeased, that he bringeth it to his mouth. 16. A slothful man thinketh himself wiser than seven that teach morals. 17. He that goeth before, and mixeth himself in other men's quarrels, is like one that pincheth a dog by the ears. 18. How one shooteth and killeth secretly with bullet and arrow, 19. So doth a false man with his neighbour, and speaketh afterward: I have jested. 20. When there is no more wood, the fire is quenched; and when the slanderer is gone, the strife ceaseth. 21. As coals are an ember, and wood a fire, so a contentious man maketh strife. 22. The words of the slanderer are like blows, and they go through the heart. 23. poisonous mouth and evil heart is like a shard covered with silver foam. 24. The enemy is known by his speech, though he be false in heart. 25. If he make his voice pleasing, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart. 26. Whosoever hateth secretly to do evil, his wickedness shall be made manifest in the sight of the congregation. 27. He that maketh a pit shall fall three times: and he that rolleth a stone shall fall upon it. 28. A false tongue hateth him that punisheth him: and a hypocritical mouth destroyeth. (Proverbs) Chapter 27 Of vain conceit and presumption, as the first hindrance to wisdom, and of this manifold use. 1. Boast not thyself of the morrow: for thou knowest not what may come to pass to day. 2. Let another praise thee, and not thy mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips. 3. Is heavy, and sand is burden; but the fool's wrath is heavier than both of them. 4. Anger is a fierce thing, and wrath is fierce: and who can stand before envy? 5. public punishment is better than secret love. 6. The blows of the lover are well meant: but the kissing of the hater is a whisper. 7. A full soul treadeth honeycomb: but to a hungry soul all bitter things are sweet. 8. As a bird is that departeth from his nest, so is he that departeth from his place. 9. The heart rejoiceth in ointment and incense: but a friend is sweet for the counsel of the soul. 10. Forsake not thy friend, nor thy father's friend. And go not into thy brother's house, when thou art in evil: for a neighbour is better near, than a brother far off. 11. Be wise, my son, and my heart will rejoice; and I will answer him that reproacheth me. 12. A witty man seeth misfortune, and hideth himself: but the foolish pass through, and suffer harm. 13. Take away the garment of him that is a surety for another, and seize him for the stranger's sake. 14. Whosoever blesseth his neighbour with a loud voice, and riseth up early, it shall be cursed for him. 15. A quarrelsome woman, and a continual drifting, when it rains very hard, are well compared together. 16. He that stoppeth them holdeth the wind, and will lay hold on the oil with his hand. 17. One knife sharpeneth another, and one man another. 18. He that keepeth his fig tree eateth fruit of it: and he that keepeth his master is honoured. 19. As the shadow of the waters is against the face, so is the heart of man against the other. 20. Hell and corruption shall never be full, neither shall men's eyes be full. 21. A man is proved by the mouth of praise, as silver in a crucible, and gold in a furnace. 22. If thou pound the fool in the mortar with the pestle as groats, his foolishness shall not depart from him. 23. Take heed to thy sheep, and look after thy flock; 24. For good endureth not for ever, neither doth the crown endure for ever. 25. The hay is risen, and the grass is there, and the herbage is gathered upon the mountains. 26. The lambs shall clothe thee, and the goats shall give thee the money of the field. 27. Thou hast goats' milk enough for the food of thy house, and for the food of thy maidens. (Proverbs) Chapter 28 Of the other hindrance to wisdom, an evil conscience, its quality, origin, and remedy against it. 1. The wicked man fleeth, and no man chaseth him: but the righteous man is as bold as a lion. 2. For the sin of the land there are many changes of principalities: but for the people's sakes, who are understanding and sensible, they abide long. 3. A poor man that offendeth the lowly is as a meltoid that spoileth the fruit. 4. They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but they that keep it are unwilling unto them. 5. Wicked men take no heed to judgment: but they that inquire of the LORD take heed to all things. 6. It is better for a poor man to walk in godliness than for a rich man to pray in perverse ways. 7. He that keepeth the law is a child of understanding: but he that feedeth iniquity dishonoureth his father. 8. He that increaseth his goods by usury and extravagance gathereth them for the use of the poor. 9. He that turneth away his ear to hear the law, his prayer is an abomination. 10. He that deceiveth the righteous in an evil way shall fall into his pit: but the righteous shall inherit good things. 11. A rich man thinketh himself wise, but a poor man of understanding knoweth him. 12. When the righteous have the prevalence, ye deal very well: but when the wicked arise, it turneth among the people. 13. He that denieth his iniquity shall not prosper: but he that confesseth and forsaketh it shall obtain mercy. 14. Blessed is he that feareth all things. But he that is stiff-necked shall fall into mischief. 15. A wicked man that ruleth over a poor people is a roaring lion and a ravening bear. 16. If a prince be without understanding, many wrongs are done: but he that hateth covetousness shall live long. 17. A man that worketh iniquity in the blood of one soul shall not obtain, though he go into hell. 18. He that walketh uprightly shall recover: but he that is perverse in his ways shall at once perish. 19. He that tilleth his ground shall have bread enough: but he that followeth idleness shall have poverty enough. 20. A faithful man is much blessed: but he that hasteth to be rich shall not be blameless. 21. To look upon a person is not good: for he would do evil for a piece of bread. 22. He that hasteth to get rich, and is envious, knoweth not that calamity shall befall him. 23. He that reproveth a man shall hereafter find favour, because he that feigneth it. 24. Whosoever taketh from his father or mother, and saith it is not sin, the same is the companion of the destroyer. 25. A proud man stirreth up strife: but he that trusteth in the LORD shall be fat. 26. He that trusteth in his heart is a fool: but he that prayeth with wisdom shall escape. 27. He that giveth to the poor shall not want: but he that turneth away his eyes shall greatly perish. 28. When the wicked arise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous abound. (Proverbs) Chapter 29 The third obstacle to wisdom is stubbornness. 1. He that is stiffnecked against judgment shall perish suddenly without all help; 2. When the righteous are many, the people rejoice: but when the wicked rule, the people groan. 3. He that loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that lieth with harlots perisheth his goods. 4. A king upholdeth the land by judgment: but a covetous man destroyeth it. 5. He that is hypocritical with his neighbour spreadeth a net unto his footsteps. 6. When a wicked man sinneth, he entangleth himself: but a righteous man rejoiceth and is glad. 7. The righteous knoweth the cause of the poor: the wicked regardeth not reason. 8. The scoffers brazenly bring calamity upon a city: but the wise quiet the wrath. 9. If a wise man deal with a fool, and he be angry, or laugh, he hath no rest. 10. The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the righteous seek his soul. 11. A fool poureth out his spirit: but a wise man keepeth himself. 12. A lord that delighteth in lying, his servants are all wicked. 13. The poor and the rich meet together: but the eyes of both are enlightened by the LORD. 14. A king that judgeth the poor faithfully, his throne shall be established for ever. 15. The rod and the chastisement giveth wisdom: but a boy, left unto himself, defileth his mother. 16. Where the wicked abound, there is much sin: but the righteous shall see their fall. 17. Chasten thy son, and he shall gladden thee, and do good to thy soul. 18. When the prophecy is ended, the people become wild and desolate: but he that keepeth the law is well pleased. 19. A servant cannot be chastened with words: for though he understands, yet he accepteth not. 20. When thou seest one quick to speak, there is more hope in a fool than in him. 21. If a servant be kept tenderly from his youth, he will afterward be a squire. 22. An angry man causeth strife, and a fierce man doeth much sin. 23. The pride of man shall overthrow him: but the humble shall receive glory. 24. He that hath part with thieves, and heareth cursing, and saith it not, hath hated his life. 25. To be afraid of man is a fall: but he that trusteth in the LORD is preserved. 26. Many seek the face of a prince: but every man's judgment is of the LORD. 27. An unrighteous man is an abomination to the righteous: and he that is of the right way is an abomination to the wicked. (Proverbs) Chapter 30 Solomon's confession and prayer. 1. These are the words of Agur the son of Jake, the doctrine and speech of the man Leithiel, Leithiel and Uchal. 2. for I am the most foolish, and common sense is not with me. 3. I have not learned wisdom, neither know I what is holy. 4. Who flieth up to heaven, and who flieth down? Who taketh hold of the wind in his hands? Who bindeth the waters in a garment? Who hath made all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is the name of his son? Do you know? 5. all the words of God are purified and are a shield to those who trust in Him. 6. Do nothing to his words, lest he punish thee, and thou be found false. 7. Two things I ask of thee, which thou wilt not deny me before I die; 8. Let idolatry and falsehood be far from me: poverty and riches give me not: but let me take my humble portion of meat. 9. Or else, if I be too full, I will deny, saying, Who is the LORD? Or where I would be poor, I would steal, and take the name of my God in vain. 10. Betray not the servant against his lord: for he will curse thee, and thou shalt bear the iniquity. 11. it is a kind that curses its father and does not bless its mother; 12. a kind that thinks itself pure, and yet is not washed from its excrement; 13. a species that carries its eyes high and holds its eyelids up; 14. A kind having swords for teeth, which eateth with their molars, and devoureth the wretched of the land, and the poor of the people. 15. The hedgehog hath two daughters: bring hither, bring hither. Three things are not to be sated, and the fourth speaketh not: it is enough: 16. Hell, the mother of women shut up, the earth is not filled with water, and the fire saith not, It is enough. 17. An eye that mocketh the father, and despiseth to obey the mother, that must the ravens peck out by the brook, and the young eagles eat. 18. Three things are too strange for me, and the fourth I know not: 19. The way of the eagle in heaven, the way of the serpent upon a rock, the way of the ship in the midst of the sea, and the way of a man by a maid. 20. So is the way of the adulteress: she devoureth, and wipeeth her mouth, saying, I have done no evil. 21. A land is troubled by three things, and the fourth may not bear it: 22. A servant when he becomes king; a fool when he is too full; 23. A hostile woman when she is married, and a maid when she is heir to her wives. 24. four are small in the earth, and wiser than the wise: 25. The ants, a weak race, yet they create their food in summer; 26. rabbit, a weak nation, yet it lays its house in the rock; 27. locusts have no king, yet they move out with whole heaps; 28. The spider works with his hands and is in the kings' castles. 29. Three things have a fine course, and the fourth pray well: 30. The lion, mighty among the beasts, and turneth not back before any; 31. a wind of good loins; and a ram; and the king, against whom no man may lie down. 32. If thou hast been deceitful, or if thou hast gone up too high, or if thou hast done evil, put thy hand upon thy mouth. 33. If a man putteth milk, he maketh it butter; and he that bloweth the nose, he bringeth forth blood; and he that provoketh wrath, he bringeth forth strife. (Proverbs) Chapter 31 In praise of a virtuous woman. 1. These are the words of king Lamuel, the doctrine which his mother taught him: 2. Ah, my chosen one, ah, thou son of my womb, ah, my desired son, 3. Leave not thy substance unto women, neither walk thou in the ways wherein kings corrupt themselves. 4. O, not to kings, Lamuel, give not wine to the kings to drink, nor strong drink to the princes. 5. they want to drink and forget the rights and change the cause of some wretched people. 6. Give strong drink to them that shall perish, and wine to the afflicted souls, 7. That they may drink, and forget their miseries, and remember their calamities no more. 8. Open thy mouth for the dumb, and for the cause of all that are forsaken. 9. Open thy mouth, and judge righteously, and avenge the wretched and the poor. 10. To whom a virtuous woman is given, she is far more precious than the most precious pearls. 11. Her husband's heart may rely upon her, and food shall not fail him. 12. She loveth him, and harmeth him not all his days. 13. She handleeth wool and flax, and worketh gladly with her hands. 14. she is like a merchant ship that brings its food from afar. 15. She riseth up by night, and giveth food to her house, and meat to her maidens. 16. she thinks of .a field and buys it and plants a vineyard from the fruit of her hands. 17. She girdeth up her loins, and strengtheneth her arms. 18. She perceiveth how her commerce bringeth piety: her lamp goeth not out by night. 19. She stretcheth forth her hand toward the skirt, and her fingers grasp the spindle. 20. She stretcheth out her hands to the poor, and giveth her hand to the needy. 21. She feareth not the snow from her house: for all her house hath twofold garments. 22. She maketh her own covering; white silk and purple is her garment. 23. Her husband is renowned in the gates, when he sitteth with the elders of the land. 24. She maketh a skirt, and selleth it: one girdle she giveth to the grocer. 25. Her ornament is that she is clean and diligent; and she shall laugh afterward. 26. She openeth her mouth with wisdom, and upon her tongue is blessed doctrine. 27. She looketh on the things of her house, and eateth not her bread with sloth. 28. Her sons arise, and call her blessed; her husband praiseth her. 29. Many daughters bring wealth; but thou excellest them all. 30. To be lovely and beautiful is nothing; a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31. She shall be praised by the fruits of her hands; and her works shall she praise in the gates. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Preacher Solomon (Ecclesiastes) ^ Chapter 1 Man is not blissful in his earthly wisdom, but vain. 1. These are the sayings of Ecclesiastes, the son of David king of Jerusalem. 2. It is all vanity, said the preacher, it is all vanity. 3. What hath man more of all his toil that he hath under the sun? 4. One generation passeth away, and another cometh: but the earth abideth for ever. 5. The sun riseth, and setteth, and returneth to his place, and riseth there again. 6. The wind goeth toward the south, and cometh round about the north, and returneth again to the place where it began. 7. All the waters go into the sea, neither is the sea filled: in the place whence they flow, they flow again. 8. All the work is so full of trouble, that no man is able to speak. The eye never sees enough, and the ear never hears enough. 9. What is it that is come to pass? The very thing that is hereafter to come to pass. What is that which is done? The same that shall be done hereafter: and there is no new thing under the sun. 10. Doth any thing happen of which it may be said, Behold, this is new? For it was also done before, in times past, which were before us. 11. They remember not those things which are before: neither shall they remember those things which are after in those things which are hereafter. 12. I, Ecclesiastes, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. 13. And I gave my heart to search and search wisely all that is done under heaven. God has given the children of men such unhappy trouble that they have to toil in it. 14. I looked upon all that is done under the sun, and, behold, it was all vain and pitiful. 15. crooked cannot become bad, nor the fault be counted. 16. And I said in mine heart, Behold, I am become glorious, and have more wisdom than all that were before me in Jerusalem: and my heart hath learned and experienced many things. 17. And I set my heart to learn wisdom, and folly, and prudence. But I perceived that these things are trouble. 18. For where there is much wisdom, there is much sorrow: and he that teacheth much, suffereth much. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 2 Earthly lusts are vain. 1. I said in mine heart, Well, I will live well, and have good days. But, behold, this also was vain. 2. I spoke to the laughter: You are great and to joy: What are you doing? 3. Then thought I in mine heart to draw my body from wine, and to draw my heart unto wisdom, to lay hold on that which is foolishness, until I should learn what is good for men to do, as long as they live under heaven. 4. I did great things; I built houses, I planted vineyards, 5. I made me gardens and pleasure gardens, and planted therein all manner of fruitful trees; 6. I made me pools to water the forest of green trees. 7. I had menservants, and maidservants, and servants; I had a greater substance of oxen and sheep than all that were before me in Jerusalem. 8. I also gathered me silver, and gold, and treasure of kings and of countries. I made me singers, and singers, and the lust of men, and all manner of strings, 9. And increased upon all them that were before me in Jerusalem: wisdom also abode with me. 10. And all things whatsoever mine eyes desired I left them, and withheld no joy from my heart, that it should rejoice in all my labour: and this I counted my portion in all my labour. 11. And when I had considered all my works that my hand had done, and the labour that I had laboured under, behold, it was all vain and pitiful, and there was nothing left under the sun. 12. Then turned I to see wisdom, and prudence, and folly. For who knoweth what manner of man he shall be after the king whom they have made ready? 13. Then I saw that wisdom surpassed folly, as light surpasseth darkness, 14. That the wise man's eyes are in his head, but fools walk in darkness; and yet he perceiveth that one is like another. 15. Then thought I in mine heart, Because the fool is like me, why then have I sought wisdom? Then thought I in mine heart, That these things also are vanity. 16. For the wise man is not remembered for ever, neither is the fool: and the days to come forget all things: and as the wise dieth, so dieth the fool. 17. Wherefore I was displeased to live: for I was displeased with the things that are done under the sun, that they were so vain and troublesome. 18. And all my labour that I had under the sun grieved me, that I should leave the same unto a man that should be after me. 19. For who knoweth whether he shall be wise or foolish? And yet shall reign in all my work, Which I have wisely done under the sun. That also is vain. 20. Therefore I turned, that my heart might depart from all the work that I have done under the sun. 21. For a man that hath wrought his work with wisdom, and understanding, and skill, must leave it for an inheritance to another that hath not wrought it. This also is vain, and a great misfortune. 22. For what shall a man get of all his labour and toil of his heart that he hath under the sun? 23. For all the days of his life he hath sorrow, and grief, and his heart hath not rested at night? This also is vain. 24. Is it not better for a man to eat and drink, and for his soul to be in good health in his work? But these things also have I seen, that they are of the hand of God. 25. For who hath more gladly eaten and rejoiced than I? 26. For to the man that pleaseth him he giveth wisdom, and understanding, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth calamity, that he may gather and heap, and yet be given to him that pleaseth God. Therefore this also is a vain sorrow. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 3 God's providence shows that the heathen care of food is vain. 1. To every thing there is a season; and to every purpose under heaven there is an hour. 2. Being born, dying, planting, eradicating that which is planted, 3. Choking, healing, breaking, building, 4. Crying, laughing, complaining, dancing, 5. Scattering stones, gathering stones, hearts, farthings from hearts, 6. Search, lose, keep, discard, 7. Tearing, sewing, silence, talking, 8. Love, hate, quarrel, peace has its time. 9. work as you will, so you can't do more. 10. Therefore I saw the trouble which God gave to men, that they should be afflicted within. 11. But he doeth all things in his good time, and maketh their hearts to be anxious, how things shall be in the world: for man cannot do the work that God doeth, neither the beginning nor the end. 12. Therefore I perceived that there was nothing better in it, but to be merry, and to do him good in his life. 13. For every man that eateth and drinketh, and hath good courage in all his work, is the gift of God. 14. I perceived that whatsoever God doeth, that continueth for ever: there is nothing to add unto it, neither to take away from it: and this is what God doeth, that men should fear him. 15. What God doeth, that standeth; and what he will do, that shall come to pass: for he seeketh and pursueeth after him. 16. Further, I saw under the sun a place of judgment, where was an ungodly creature; and a place of righteousness, where were ungodly men. 17. Then thought I in mine heart, God must judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a season to every purpose and to every work. 18. I have spoken in my heart of the nature of men, wherein God doth indicate and make them look as if they were among themselves as cattle. 19. For man is as the beast: as the beast dieth, so dieth he; and they have all the same breath: and man hath nothing more than beast: for all are vain. 20. All things come to one place: all things are made of dust, and return to dust. 21. Who knoweth whether the breath of men go up, and the breath of cattle go down under the earth? 22. Therefore I saw that there is nothing better than that a man should be glad in his work: for that is his portion. For who shall bring him to see what shall come after him? (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 4 More distant doctrine wherein true happiness does not consist. 1. I turned, and saw all that were wronged under the sun: and, behold, there were tears of them that were wronged, and had no comforter: and they that wronged them were too mighty to have a comforter. 2. Then I praised the dead which were dead, rather than the living which had life. 3. And he that is not yet is better than both, and is not aware of the evil that is done under the sun. 4. I have seen work and skill in all things: one envieth another. That also is vain and toil. 5. For a fool claspeth his fingers together, and eateth his flesh. 6. It is better to have one hand full of peace than both fists full of trouble and sorrow. 7. I turned, and saw vanity under the sun. 8. He is one, and not one; he hath neither child nor brethren: neither is there an end of his labour, neither are his eyes full of riches. Whom do I labour after, and break off my soul? This also is vain, and wicked toil: 9. Two are better than one: for they enjoy their work well. 10. If a man fall, his companion shall help him up. Woe to him who is alone! If he falls, there is no one to help him up. 11. even if two lie together, they warm themselves; how can' one become warm? 12. One may be overcome, but two may withstand: for a threefold cord is not easily broken. 13. A poor child that is wise is better than an old king that is a fool, and knoweth not how to beware. 14. One cometh out of prison unto the kingdom; and one born in his kingdom is impoverished. 15. And I saw that every living thing that is under the sun walketh by one in the child that shall arise in his stead. 16. And there was no end of the people that went before him, or of them that followed him: yet they were not glad. This also is a vain and grievous thing. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 5 From the path to true bliss, 17. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and come and hear. This is better than the sacrifice of fools: for they know not what evil they do. Chap. 5, v. 1. Be not quick with thy mouth, and let not thy heart haste to speak any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few. 2. For where there is much sorrow, there come dreams: and where there are many words, there is heard a fool. 3. When thou vowest a vow unto God, thou shalt not consume to keep it: for he hath no pleasure in fools. That which thou vowest, keep it. 4. It is better that thou vow nothing, than that thou keep not that which thou vowest. 5. Curse not thy mouth, that it may deceive thy flesh: neither say thou before the angel, I am innocent. God will be angry with thy voice, and condemn all the works of thy hands. 6. Where there are many dreams, there is vanity and many words; but fear God! 7. When thou seest the poor wronged, and righteousness and justice taken away in the land, marvel not at the noble: for there is yet a high guardian above the high, and there are yet higher than these two. 8. About this is the king throughout all the land, to build the field. 9. He that loveth money shall never be satisfied with money: he that loveth riches shall not profit thereby. This also is vain. 10. For where there is much good, there are many that eat it: and what is he worthy that hath it, without seeing it with his eyes? 11. To him that worketh sleep is sweet, whether he have eaten little, or whether he have eaten much: but the rich man's abundance maketh him not sleep. 12. It is an evil plague that I have seen under the sun, to keep wealth to the hurt of him that hath it. 13. For the rich man perisheth with great sorrow: and if he have begotten a son, he hath nothing left in his hand. 14. As he came naked from his mother's womb, so he goeth again as he came, and taketh nothing of his work in his hand with him when he goeth. 15. This is an evil plague, because he is gone as he came. What profit is it to him, that he hath wrought in the wind? 16. For all his life he hath eaten in darkness, and in great sorrow, and in sickness, and in grief. 17. Now therefore I consider it good to eat and to drink, and to be of good cheer in all the work that a man doeth under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for that is his portion. 18. For unto whomsoever God giveth riches, and goods, and power, to eat thereof, and to drink thereof for his portion, and to be merry in his labour, this is the gift of God. 19. For he thinketh not much of the miserable life, because God delighteth his heart. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 6 Avarice and worldly honor a vain thing. 1. It is a calamity that I have seen under the sun, and it is common among men: 2. One to whom God hath given riches, goods, and honor, and lacketh none that his heart desireth, and yet God giveth him not power to enjoy them, but another devoureth them: this is vain and an evil plague. 3. If he beget an hundred children, and live so long, that he live many years, and his soul be not satisfied with good, and remain without a grave, of him I say that untimely birth is better than he. 4. For in vanity he cometh, and in darkness he passeth away, and his name abideth in darkness, 5. Is not glad of the sun, and knows no rest either here or there. 6. Though he live two thousand years, yet hath he no good courage. Is it not all in one place? 7. To every man is laid up work according to his measure: but the heart cannot keep it up. 8. For what doth a wise man judge more than a fool? What dare Anne, that he should be among the living? 9. It is better to use the present good, than to think of other things. This is also vanity and misery. 10. What is the matter, though a man be highly renowned, yet know ye that he is a man, and be not grieved with that which is too mighty for him? 11. For the vain thing is too much: what hath a man more of it? (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 7 From means to bliss. 1. For who knoweth what shall profit a man in life, as long as he liveth in his vanity, which passeth away as a shadow? Or who shall tell man what shall come after him under the sun? 2. a good rumour is better than good ointment, and the day of death neither the day of birth. 3. It is better to go into the house of complaint than into the house of drunkenness: in the latter is the end of all men, and the living take it to heart. 4. It is better to mourn than to laugh: for by mourning the heart is made better. 5. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, and the heart of fools in the house of gladness. 6. It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise than to hear the song of fools. 7. For the laughter of the fool is as the crackling of thorns among pots; and that also is vain. 8. A contumacious man maketh a wise man unwilling, and corrupteth a meek heart. 9. the end of a thing is better than its beginning. A patient spirit is better than a high spirit. 10. Be not quick to anger: for anger resteth in the heart of a fool. 11. Say not, What is it that the former days were better than these? For thou askest not wisely. 12. wisdom is good with an inheritance, and helps that one may rejoice in the sun. 13. For wisdom shieldeth, and money also shieldeth: but wisdom giveth life to him that hath it. 14. Behold the works of God: for who can make evil that which he bendeth? 15. Be of good cheer in the good day, and take the evil day also for good: for this God hath made beside that, that man should not know what is to come. 16. All manner of things have I seen in the time of my vanity. There is a righteous man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is an ungodly man that liveth long in his wickedness. 17. Be not too righteous, nor too wise, lest thou corrupt thyself. 18. Be not overmuch ungodly, and be not foolish, lest thou die untimely. 19. It is good for thee to take hold of these things, and not to let those things out of thine hand: for he that feareth God escapeth all these things. 20. Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men that are in the city. For there is not a man upon the earth that doeth good, and sinneth not. 22. Neither take to thine heart all that is said, lest thou hear thy servant curse thee. 23. For thine heart knoweth that thou hast often cursed others also. 24. All these things have I tried wisely. I thought I would be wise; but she came farther from me. 25. It is far off; what shall it be? and it is very deep; who shall find it? 26. I turned my heart to know, and to search, and to seek wisdom and arts; to know the folly of the wicked, and the error of the foolish, 27. And found that such a woman, whose heart is a net and a snare, and her hands are bands, is more bitter than death. He that pleaseth God shall escape her; but the sinner shall be snared by her. 28. Behold, these things have I found, saith the preacher, one by one, that I might learn art. 29. And my soul seeketh yet, and hath not found it. I have found one man in a thousand, but I have not found a woman among them all. 30. Behold, I have found that God hath made man upright: but they seek many arts. Ch. 8, v. 1. who is so wise? and who can interpret it? (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 8 Other rules to happiness against this life vanity. 1. The wisdom of man enlighteneth his face: but he that is bold is hostile, 2. I keep the word of the King and the oath of God. 3. Hasten not to depart from his presence, neither tarry in evil: for he doeth that which he lusteth after. 4. There is power in the king's word: and who shall say unto him, What doest thou? 5. He that keepeth the commandment shall know no evil: but the heart of a wise man knoweth the time and the manner. 6. For to every purpose there is a season and a time: for the calamity of man is much with him. 7. For he knoweth not what hath been; and who shall tell him what shall be? 8. A man hath not power over the spirit to resist the spirit; neither hath he power in the time of death, neither is he loosed in the battle: neither doth the ungodly deliver the ungodly. 9. I have seen all these things, and have set my heart upon all the works that are done under the sun. One man at a time ruleth over another to his own hurt. 10. And there I saw the wicked buried, which had walked, and had walked in the holy place, and were forgotten in the city, because they had done so. This also is vain. 11. Because judgment of evil works is not soon executed, thereby men's hearts are filled with doing evil. 12. Though a sinner do evil a hundred times, and yet live long, yet I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, that fear his face. 13. For it shall not prosper the wicked, neither shall they live long, as a shadow, that fear not God. 14. There is a vanity that is done in the earth. The righteous are as though they had the works of the wicked; and the wicked are as though they had the works of the righteous. And I said, This also is vanity. 15. Therefore I commend joy, that there is nothing better for a man under the sun, than to eat and to drink, and to be merry: and such shall he have of the work of his life, which God giveth him under the sun. 16. I gave my heart to know the wisdom, and to behold the travail that is upon the earth, that no man should see sleep with his eyes day or night. 17. And I saw all the works of God. For a man cannot find the work that is done under the sun; and the more a man labors to seek, the less he finds. Though he say, I am wise, and know it, yet can he not find it. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 9 Let vanity be confronted, and let wisdom be exercised. 1. For I have taken all these things to heart, to search out all these things, that the righteous and the wise are, and their subjects in the hand of God. But no man knoweth neither the love nor the hate of any that he hath before him. 2. It befalleth one as well as another, the righteous as well as the wicked, the good and the clean as well as the unclean, he that sacrificeth as well as he that sacrificeth not. As it is with the good, so it is with the sinner. As it is with the perjurer, so it is with him who fears the oath. 3. This is an evil thing of all that is done under the sun, that it goeth to one as it goeth to another: therefore also the heart of men is filled with evil, and folly is in their heart, while they live; and after that they die. 4. For with all living things there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion. 5. For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither do they deserve any more; for their memory is forgotten, 6. That they be no more loved, nor hated, nor envied; neither have they any more any part in the world in anything that is done under the sun. 7. Go therefore, eat thy bread with gladness, drink thy wine with good courage: for thy work is pleasing unto God. 8. Let thy garments be always white, and let not thy head lack ointment. 9. Use life with thy wife, whom thou lovest, as long as thou hast the vain life which God hath given thee under the sun, as long as thy vain life endureth: for this is thy portion in life, and in thy work which thou doest under the sun. 10. Whatsoever thou hast power to do, do it fresh: for in hell, whither thou goest, there is neither work, nor skill, nor understanding, nor wisdom. 11. I turned, and saw how it is under the sun, that to run is not to be swift, to fight is not to be strong, to eat is not to be skillful, to be rich is not to be wise; that a man may be pleasant is not that he may do a thing well, but all depends upon time and fortune. 12. Neither knoweth man his time: but as the fishes are taken with a noisome snare, and as the birds are caught with a snare, so men are taken with the evil time, when it suddenly cometh upon them. 13. I have also seen this wisdom under the sun, which seemed great unto me, 14. And there was a small city, and few people in it: and there came a great king, and filled it, and built great fortresses about it, 15. And there was found in it a poor wise man, which was able to save that city by his wisdom: and no man remembered that poor man. 16. Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength. Nor was the poor man's wisdom despised, nor his words obeyed. 17. For the words of the wise are more effectual among the quiet, than the shouting of lords among fools. 18. For wisdom is better than armour: but a few knaves destroy much good. Ch. 10, v. 1. So the noxious flies spoil good ointments. Therefore at times folly is better than wisdom and honour. 2. For the heart of the wise is on his right hand: but the heart of the fool is on his left. 3. Though the fool himself be foolish in his doings, yet he thinketh every man a fool. 4. Wherefore, if a mighty one go against thy will, be not dismayed: for forbearance stilleth great evil. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 10 Of authorities and subjects. 5. There is a calamity that I have seen under the sun, namely, foolishness, which is common among the mighty, 6. That a fool sitteth in great dignity, and the rich sit down here. 7. I saw servants on horses, and princes walking as servants. 8. But he that maketh a pit shall fall into three: and he that breaketh the fence shall be stung by a serpent. 9. He that rolleth away stones shall have trouble; and he that cleaveth wood shall be hurt thereby. 10. If an iron be blunt, and the edge remain unsharpened, it must be sharpened again with power: so also wisdom followeth diligence. 11. A launderer is nothing better than a serpent that stings unsworn. 12. The words of a wise man's mouth are pleasant: but the lips of a fool devour him. 13. The beginning of his words is foolishness, and the end is pernicious folly. 14. A fool speaketh much: for a man knoweth not what hath been; and who shall tell him what shall be after him? 15. the work of the fools becomes sour to them, because one does not know to go to the city. 16. Woe unto thee, O land, whose king is a child, and whose prince eateth early! 17. Blessed art thou, O land, whose king is noble, and whose prince eateth in due season, for strength, and not for pleasure. 18. (For by slothfulness the beams sink, and by negligent hands the house is dripping). 19. That maketh bread to make merry, and wine to make glad the living, and money to make all things work for them. 20. Curse not the king in thine heart, neither curse the rich man in thy bedchamber: for the fowls of the air carry the voice, and they that have wings repeat it. Chapter 11 To practice goodness; to shun anxious worry. 1. Let thy bread pass over the waters, and thou shalt find it for a long time. 2. Divide from among seven, and from among eight: for thou knowest not what evil shall come upon the earth. 3. When the clouds are full, they give rain upon the earth: and when the tree falleth, let it fall toward the south, or toward the north, upon what place it falleth, there shall it lie. 4. He that looketh to the wind soweth not, and he that looketh to the clouds reapeth not. 5. As thou knowest not the way of the wind, and as the bones are prepared in the womb, so thou canst not know the work of God which he doeth everywhere. 6. Early see thy seed, and let not thine hand depart in the evening: for thou knowest not whether it be this or that: and if it be both, so much the better. 7. The light is sweet, and it is pleasant to the eyes to see the sun. 8. If a man live a long time, and be merry in all things, he remembereth but the evil days, that they are so many: for all that he hath met with is vain. (Ecclesiastes) Chapter 12 Of Grievousness of Age and God's Judgment. 9. Rejoice therefore, O young man, in thy youth; and let thine heart be merry in thy youth. Do that which thy heart lusteth after, and is pleasing to thine eyes: and know that God will bring thee into judgment for all this. 10. Put away sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy body: for childhood and youth are vain. Ch. 12, v. 1 Remember thy Maker in thy youth, before the evil days come, and the years come, when thou shalt say, They please me not, 2. Before the sun and the light, the moon and the stars, be darkened, and the clouds return after the rain, 3. At the time when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong are bowed down, and the millers stand idle, because they have been so few; and the faces through the windows are darkened, 4. and the doors of the street are shut, that the voice of the miller's wife may be hushed, and awake when the bird sings, and all the daughters of song bend down, 5. That even the high ones may fear and be afraid in the way; when the almond tree blossometh, and the locust is burdened, and all pleasure perisheth (for man goeth away, as he abideth for ever, and the accusers go about in the street, 6. Before the silver cord be taken away, and the fountain of gold run down, and the bucket be broken in the fountain, and the wheel be broken in the fountain. 7. For the dust must return to the earth as it was, and the spirit to God who gave it. 8. It is all vain, said the preacher, all vain! 9. This same preacher was not only wise, but taught the people good doctrine, and discerned, and searched out, and set forth many sayings. 10. He sought to find pleasant words, and wrote rightly the words of truth. 11. These words of the wise are spears and nails, written by the masters of the assemblies, and given by a shepherd. 12. Beware, my son, of others more: for there is no end of much bookmaking, and much preaching weariseth out the body. 13. Let us hear the main sum of all doctrine: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this belongs to all men. 14. For God shall bring all works into judgment, which is hid, whether it be good or evil. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Song of Solomon (Song of Songs) ^ Chapter 1 The Christian Church longs for her Bridegroom, Christ, to whom she is promised and united in love. 1. the Song of Solomon. 2. Let him kiss me with the kiss of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine; 3. That they may smell thy good ointment. Thy name is an ointment poured out: therefore do the handmaids love thee. 4: Lead me after thee, and we will run. The king leadeth me into his chamber. We rejoice and are glad in thee; We remember thy love more than wine. The pious love thee. 5. I am black, but I am lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the carpets of Solomon. 6. Look not upon me, because I am black: for the sun hath burned me. My mother's children are angry with me. They have made me the keeper of the vineyards: but the vineyard which I had, I have not kept it. 7. Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou restest at noonday, that I walk not to and fro among the flocks of thy companions. 8. If thou knowest not thyself, O fairest of women, go out in the footsteps of the sheep, and feed thy goats by the shepherds' houses. 9. I will liken thee, my friend, unto my travelling witness unto Pharaoh's chariot. 10. Thy cheeks are set in braces, and thy neck in chains. 11. We will make thee clasps of gold, and silver spangles. 12. And when the king turned himself, my nard gave his smell. 13. My friend is a clump of myrrh that hangeth between my breasts. 14. My friend is a grape of Kopher unto me in the vineyards of Engeddi. 15. Behold, my friend, thou art fair, fair art thou; thine eyes are as the eyes of a dove. 16. Behold, my friend, thou art fair and lovely. Our bed is green. 17. The beams of our houses are cedars, and our laths are cypresses. (Song of Solomon) Chapter 2 Love and sorrow are common to Christo and his bride. 1. I am a flower to Saron, and a rose in the valley. 2. As a rose among thorns, so is my friend among daughters. 3. As an apple tree among the wild trees, so is my friend among the sons. I sit under the shade of him whom I desire, And his fruit is sweet to my throat. 4. He leadeth me into the wine cellar, and love is his banner over me. 5. He hath refreshed me with flowers, and fed me with apples: for I am sick of love. 6. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand is upon me. 7. I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, or by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up my friend, nor stir her up, until ye yourselves fall. (Epistle on the day of the Visitation.) 8. There is the voice of my friend. Behold, he cometh, and leapeth upon the mountains, and leapeth upon the hills. 9. My friend is like a roe deer, or a young hart. Behold, he standeth behind our wall, and looketh through the window, and peepeth through the lattice. 10. My friend answereth and saith unto me, Arise, my friend, my fair one, and come hither. 11. For, behold, the winter is past, and the rain is gone and gone; 12. The flowers are come forth in the land, the spring is come, and the turtledove is heard in our land; 13. The fig tree has gained nodes, the vines have gained eyes and give their smell. Arise, my friend, and come, my beautiful one, come here! 14. My dove in the holes of the rock, in the clefts of the stone, show me thy form, let me hear thy voice. For thy voice is sweet, and thy form lovely. 15. Fear us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vineyards: for our vineyards have gained eyes. 16. My friend is mine, and I am his that feedeth among the roses, 17. Till the day be cool, and the shadow depart. Turn back, become like a deer, my friend, or like a young stag on the Scheideberge! (Song of Solomon) Chapter 3 Christ his church's mighty shoe. 1. I sought in my bed at night him whom my soul loveth. I sought, but found him not. 2. I will arise, and go about the city in the streets and lanes, and seek him whom my soul loveth. I sought, but found him not. 3. The watchmen that go about the city found me: Have ye not seen him whom my soul loveth? 4. And when I had passed a little before them, I found him whom my soul loveth. I hold him, and will not leave him, Till I bring him into my mother's house, Into my mother's chamber. 5. I adjure you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes or hinds of the field, that ye stir not up my friend, nor stir her up, till she herself be fallen. 6. Who is she that cometh up out of the wilderness as a straight smoke, as the smoke of myrrh, and frankincense, and all manner of powder of an apothecary? 7. Behold, round about the bed of Solomon stand threescore and ten strong men of the mighty men of Israel. 8. They hold all swords, and are skillful in battle. Every man hath his sword upon his thigh for fear of the night. 9. And king Solomon made him a litter of wood out of Lebanon. 10. The pillars thereof were of silver, the covering of gold, the seat of purple, the floor in the midst thereof was beautifully paved for the daughters' sake in Jerusalem. 11. Come forth, ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon in the crown, that his mother hath crowned him in the day of his marriage, and in the day of the gladness of his heart. (Song of Solomon) Chapter 4 Beauty of the Church a gift of grace. 1. Behold, my friend, thou art fair behold, fair art thou! Thine eyes are as the eyes of doves among thy braids. Thy hair is like the herds of goats that are shorn in mount Gilead. 2. Thy teeth are like the flock of circumcised wool, which come out of the flood, which bear twins at all times; and there is none barren among them. 3. Thy lips are like a rosy cord, and thy speech is sweet. Thy cheeks are like the slit on the pomegranate between thy braids. 4. Thy neck is like the tower of David, built with breastworks; there hang a thousand shields thereon, and all the weapons of the mighty. 5. thy two breasts are like two young doe twins grazing among the roses, 6. Till the day be cool, and the shadow be removed. I will go to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense. 7. thou art all things fair, my friend, and there is no spot in thee. 8. Come, my bride, from Lebanon, come from Lebanon. Come in, come in from the height of Amana, from the height of Senir and Hermon, from the dwellings of lions, from the mountains of leopards. 9. Thou hast taken my heart, my sister, dear bride, with thine eyes one, and with thy necklaces one. 10. How beautiful are thy breasts, my sister, my dear bride! Thy breasts are more sweet than wine, and the smell of thy ointments surpasses all spices. 11. Thy lips, my bride, are as honey dripping; honey and milk are under thy tongue; and the smell of thy garments is as the smell of Lebanon. 12. My sister, dear bride, you are a closed garden, a closed spring, a sealed well. 13. Thy growth is like a garden of pomegranates, with noble fruit, Cyprus with nard, 14. nard with saffron, calamus, and tin names, with all manner of trees of frankincense, myrrh, and aloes, with all the best spices. 15. As a garden fountain, as a spring of living waters flowing from Lebanon. 16. Arise, north wind, and come, south wind, and woe through my garden, that his spices may drip! (Song of Solomon) Chapter 5 Christ is invited by the church out of love for guests and praised for his beauty. 17. Let my friend come into his garden, and eat of his noble fruit. Chap. 5, v. 1. I come, my sister, dear bride, into my garden. I have broken off my myrrh together with my spices; I have eaten of my seed together with my honey; I have drunk of my wine together with my milk. Eat, my beloved, and drink, my friends, and be drunk! 2. I sleep, but my heart waketh. There is the voice of my friend knocking, Open to me, my dear friend, my sister, my dove, my pious: for my head is full of dew, and my locks of night-drops. 3. I have taken off my skirt, how shall I put it on again? I have washed my feet, how shall I sully them again? 4. But my friend put his hand through the hole, and my body trembled at it. 5. And I arose to give up my friend; and my hands were dripping with myrrh, and myrrh ran upon my fingers by the latch of the lock. 6. And when I had opened my friend, he was gone, and departed. Then went out my soul after his word: I sought him, but found him not: I called, but he answered me not. 7. And the keepers of the city found me, and smote me sore: the keepers of the wall took away my veil. 8. I beseech you, ye daughters of Jerusalem, if ye find my friend, tell him that I lie sick of love. 9. What is thy friend above other friends, O thou fairest of women? What is thy friend before other friends, that thou hast thus adjured us? 10. my friend is white and red, chosen among many thousands. 11. His head is the finest gold. His curls are frizzy, black as a raven. 12. His eyes are as the eyes of doves by the rivers of water, washed with milk, and standing in fullness. 13. His cheeks are like the growing of the spices of the apothecaries. His lips are like roses dripping with flowing myrrh. 14. His hands are like rings of gold, full of turquoises; His body is as pure ivory adorned with sapphires. 15. His legs are like pillars of marble, founded upon feet of gold. His form is like Lebanon, chosen like cedars. 16. His throat is sweet, and all sweetness. Such a one is my friend; my friend is such, O daughters of Jerusalem! (Song of Solomon) Chapter 6 The church is commended and visited upon its confession of Christ. 17. Whither then hath thy friend gone, O thou fairest of women? Whither hath thy friend turned? Let us seek him with thee. Ch. 6, v. 1. My friend is gone down to his garden, to the spice garden, to feed among the gardens, and to break the roses. 2. My friend is mine, and I am his that feedeth among the roses. 3. Thou art fair, my friend, as Thirzah, lovely as Jerusalem, terrible as Heerspitzen. 4. Turn away thine eyes from me; for they make me ruthless: thy hair is as a flock of goats shorn in mount Gilead. 5. Thy teeth are as a flock of sheep which come out of the flood, which bear twins every one; and there is not one barren among them. 6. your cheeks are like a slit on the pomegranate between your braids. 7. Sixty are the queens, and fourscore the concubines; and there is no number of virgins. 8. But one is my dove, my pious; one is her mother's beloved, and her mother's elect. When they saw the daughters, they blessed them: the queens and the concubines praised them. 9. Who is she that cometh forth as the dawn, fair as the moon, chosen as the sun, terrible as the tops of the hosts? 10. I went down into the garden of nuts, to see the shrubs by the brook, to see whether the vine blossomed, whether the pomegranates were green. 11. My soul knew it not, that he had set me by the chariot of Ammi-Nadib. 12. Return again, return again, O Sulamith! Return again, return again, that we may behold thee! What do you see in Sulamith? The round dance at Mahanaim. (Song of Solomon) Chapter 7 Farther praise and prayer of the church. 1. How beautiful is thy walk in thy shoes, O prince's daughter! Thy loins are like two clasps together, which the master's hand hath made. 2. Thy navel is like a round cup that never lacketh drink. Thy belly is like a heap of wheat, covered with roses. 3. Your two breasts are like two young deer twins. 4. Thy neck is like an ivory tower. Thine eyes are like the pools of Heshbon, at the gate of Bathrabbim. Thy nose is like the tower of Lebanon, which looketh toward Damascus. 5. Thy head is upon thee like Carmel. The hair of thy head is bound in folds like the purple of the king. 6. How beautiful and how lovely art thou, O love of lusts! 7. Thy length is like a palm tree, and thy breasts like grapes. 8. I said: I must climb the palm tree and take hold of its branches. Let thy breasts be as grapes upon the vine, and thy nose as the smell of apples. 9. And thy throat like good wine, which is smooth unto my friend, and speaketh of far-off things. 10. my friend is mine and he sticks up for me too. 11. Come, my friend, let us go out into the field, and stay in the villages, 12. That we may arise early unto the vineyards, and see whether the vine be in blossom, and whether the eyes be grown, and whether the pomegranates be put forth: then will I give thee my breasts. 13. The lilies give off the smell, and at our door are all kinds of noble fruits. My friend, I have kept both this year's and far-off ones for you. (Song of Solomon) Chapter 8 Last love talk of Christ and His Church. 1. O that I might find thee, my brother, sucking my mother's breasts, out of doors, and kiss thee, that no man should mock me! 2. I would lead thee, and bring thee into my mother's house, where thou shouldest teach me: and I would water thee with wine made, and with the juice of my pomegranates. 3. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand is upon me. 4. I charge you, daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up nor stir up my love, until ye yourselves be pleased. 5. Who is she that cometh up from the wilderness, and leaneth upon her friend? Under the apple tree I waked thee, When thy mother bare thee, When she that bare thee lay with thee. 6. Set me as a seal upon thine heart, and as a seal upon thine arm. For love is strong as death, and zeal is firm as hell. Their embers are fiery, and a flame of the LORD, 7. That even much water may not quench love, nor the rivers drown it. If a man were to give all that is in his house for love, it would be worth nothing. 8. Our sister is small and has no breasts. What should we do to our sister, if one should address her now? 9. If it be a wall, let us build silver bulwarks upon it. If it be a door, let us strengthen it with cedar planks. 10. I am a wall, and my breasts are as towers. There have I been before his eyes, as which finds peace. 11. Solomon had a vineyard in Baalhamon. And he gave the vineyard to the keepers, that every one might bring a thousand shekels of silver for the fruit thereof. 12. My vineyard is before me. To thee, Solomon, is due a thousand; but to the keepers, two hundred, with its fruit. 13. Thou that dwellest in the gardens, let me hear thy voice: the companies take heed. 14. Flee, my friend, and be like a deer or young stag on the Würzberge. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Prophet Isaiah (Isaiah) ^ Chapter 1 Sermon of repentance to the ungrateful Jews. 1. This is the vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw of Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Jehizkiah, kings of Judah. 2. Hear, ye heavens, and earth, take heed. For the LORD speaketh: I have raised up and exalted children, and they have fallen away from me. 3. An ox knoweth his master, and an ass his master's crib: but Israel knoweth it not, neither do my people hear it. 4. O woe unto the sinful people, the people of great iniquity, the wicked seed, the children of iniquity, which forsake the LORD, blaspheming the Holy One in Israel, draw back! 5. What more shall they smite upon you, if ye do but the more to depart? The whole head is sick, the whole heart is dull. 6. From the sole of his foot even to his head there is no soundness in him, but sores and welts and boils, which are not healed, neither bound up, nor soothed with oil. 7. Your land is desolate, your cities are burned with fire; strangers devour your fields before your eyes, and is desolate, as that which is devastated by strangers. 8. And that which is left of the daughter of Zion is as a little house in the vineyard, as a tent of the night in the gourds, as a desolate city. 9. If the LORD of hosts left us not a little, we should be as Sodom, and as Gomorrha. 10. Hear the word of the LORD, ye princes of Sodom; give ear to the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrha. 11. What is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD. I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and of the fat of the fatlings; and I have no desire for the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of goats. 12. When ye come in to appear before me, who shall require this of your hands, that ye should tread in my court? 13. Offer no more meat offerings in vain. The incense is abomination unto me: the new moons and the sabbaths, when ye come together, and are troubled and afraid, them will I not like. 14. My soul hateth your new moons and your seasons: I am weary of them; I am weary of suffering. 15. And though ye spread forth your hands, yet will I hide mine eyes from you; and though ye pray much, yet will I not hear you; for dear hands are full of blood. 16. Wash, cleanse yourselves, put away your evil from mine eyes, depart from evil. 17. Learn to do good, seek justice, help the oppressed, give justice to the fatherless, and help the widow's cause. 18. Come then, and let us reason together, saith the LORD. If sin be as scarlet, it shall be as white as snow: and if it be as raisin, it shall be as wool. 19. If ye will obey me, ye shall enjoy the good of the land. 20. But if ye refuse and disobey, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD saith it. 21. How is it that the good city is become a harlot? It was full of justice, righteousness dwelt therein, but now murderers 22. Thy silver is become foam, and thy drink is mixed with water. 23. Thy princes are renegades and thieves: they all take gifts gladly, and seek after gifts: they do not do justice to the fatherless, and the widow's cause cometh not before them. 24. Therefore saith the LORD of hosts, the mighty one in Israel; O woe! I will be comforted by mine enemies, and avenged by mine enemies; 25. And I will turn mine hand against thee, and sweep away thy foam most purely, and put away all thy tin. 26. And give thee judges again, as they were before, and councillors, as at the beginning. Then shalt thou be called a city of righteousness, and a pious city. 27. Zion must be redeemed by judgment, and her captives by righteousness, 28. That transgressors and sinners should be broken in pieces together, and that they which forsake the LORD should perish. 29. For they shall be ashamed of the oaks which ye delight in, and ashamed of the gardens which ye choose, 30. When ye shall be as an oak tree with dry leaves, and as a garden without water; 11. When the protection shall be like ashes, and his doings like sparks, and both shall be kindled together, that no man put them out. (Isaiah) Chapter 2 Profession of the Gentiles in the place of the Jews. 1. This is it that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw of Judah and Jerusalem: 2. In the latter days the mountain where the house of the LORD is shall surely be higher than all mountains, and shall be exalted above all hills: and all nations shall run unto it, 3. And many nations shall go and say, Come, and let us go up into the mount of the LORD, unto the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways, and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD out of Jerusalem. 4. And he shall judge the nations, and punish many people. And they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks. For no nation shall lift up a sword against another, neither shall they learn to fight any more. 5. Come ye therefore from the house of Jacob, and let us walk in the light of the LORD. 6. But thou hast forsaken thy people, the house of Jacob: for they do more than they that are against the east, and are as the Philistines, and do much with strange children. 7. Their land is full of silver and gold, and there is no end of their treasures: their land is full of horses, and there is no end of their chariots. 8. Their land also is full of idols, and they worship the work of their hands, which their fingers have made. 9. there the riffraff stoopeth, there the nobles humble themselves. You will not forgive them. 10. Go into the rock, and hide thyself in the earth, from the fear of the LORD, and from his glorious majesty. 11. For every high eye shall be abased, and every high man shall stoop: but the LORD alone shall be high in that day. 12. For the day of the LORD of hosts shall pass upon all that is proud, and upon all that is high, and upon all that is exalted, and shall be humbled, 13. And over all the tall and lofty cedars of Lebanon, and over all the oaks of Bashan, 14. Over all the high mountains, and over all the lofty hills, 15. Over all high towers, and over all strong walls, 16. Over all the ships in the sea, and over all the delicious work, 17. That all the high places of men should bow down, and humble themselves which are high; and that the LORD alone should be high at that time. 18. And the idols shall be utterly destroyed. 19. And they shall walk in the caves of the rocks, and in the clefts of the earth, for the fear of the LORD, and for his glorious majesty, when he shall arise to terrify the earth. 20. In that day shall every man cast away his idols of silver and of gold, which he had made for him to worship, into the holes of moles and bats, 21. That he may grovel in the clefts of the stones and in the crags for the fear of the LORD, and for his glorious majesty, when he shall arise to terrify the earth. 22. Cease therefore from the man that hath breath in his nostrils: for ye know not how highly he is esteemed. (Isaiah) Chapter 3 Punishment of ruthlessness and arrogance. 1. For, behold, the LORD of hosts shall take from Jerusalem and from Judah every store, all the store of bread, and all the store of water, 2. strong men and men of war, judges, prophets, soothsayers, and old men, 3. captains over fifty, and honest men, and counsellors, and wise workmen, and prudent orators. 4. And I will give them young men to be rulers, and children shall rule over them. 5. And the people shall drudge, one against another, and every man against his neighbour: and the younger shall be proud against the old, and a loose man against the upright. 6. Then shall one seize his brother out of his father's house: Thou hast clothes; be our prince, help thou this accident! 7. And he shall swear in that day, and say, I am no physician; there is neither bread nor raiment in mine house: set me not over the people. 8. For Jerusalem is fallen, and Judah is fallen, because their tongue and their doings are against the LORD, to resist the eyes of his majesty. 9. Their nature hath they no secret; they glory in their sin, as they did in Sodom, and hide it not. Woe to their soul! For thereby they bring all calamity upon themselves. 10. Preach of the righteous, that they do well: for they shall eat the fruit of their works. 11. But woe unto the wicked, because they are wicked: and it shall be recompensed unto them according to their deserts. 12. Children are drivers of my people, and wives rule over them. My people, your comforters deceive you and destroy the way you should go. 13. But the LORD standeth in judgment, and hath stood to judge the nations. 14. And the LORD cometh to judgment with the elders of his people, and with his princes. For ye have spoiled the vineyard, and the spoil of the poor is in your house. 15. Why do ye tread down my people, and break in pieces the persons of the wretched? saith the LORD of hosts. 16. And the LORD saith, Because the daughters of Zion are proud, and walk with their necks lifted up, and their faces made up, and they walk, and they walk with their tails down, and they have fine shoes upon their feet, 17. Then shall the LORD make the crown of the daughters of Zion bald, and the LORD shall take away their jewels. 18. In that day shall the LORD take away the ornaments of the precious shoes, and the harness, and the clasps, 19. the chains, the bracelets, the bonnets, 20. the tinsel, the tresses, the laces, the muslins, the earrings, 21. The rings, the hair bands, 22. The ceremonial garments, the cloaks, the veils, the bags, 23. the mirrors, the collars, the braids, the smocks 24. And there shall be stench for a good smell, and a loose band for a girdle, and a bald head for a frizzy hair, and for a broad mantle a tight sackcloth; all these things instead of thy beauty. 25. Thy rabble shall fall by the sword, and thy warriors in battle. 26. And her gates shall mourn and lament, and she shall sit miserable upon the earth, Ch. 4, v. 1. That seven wives shall take hold of one man at that time, and say: We will feed and clothe ourselves; let us only be called by thy name, that our reproach may be taken from us. (Isaiah) Chapter 4 Prophecy of Christo. 2. In that day shall the branch of the LORD be sweet and precious, and the fruit of the earth glorious and comely in them that are preserved in Israel. 3. And whosoever shall be left in Zion, and shall remain in Jerusalem, he shall be called holy, every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem. 4. Then shall the LORD wash the filthiness of the daughters of Zion, and drive out the blood of Jerusalem from her, by the Spirit that judgeth, and kindleth a fire. 5. And the LORD shall make over all the tabernacle of mount Zion, and where it is gathered, clouds and smoke by day, and the brightness of fire burning by night. For there shall be a screen over all that is glorious; 6. And shall be a tabernacle for a shadow of the day from the heat, and a refuge and a hiding place from the weather and rain. (Isaiah) Chapter 5 From the Jewish vineyard. 1. Come, I will sing to my beloved a song of my cousin's from his vineyard. My beloved has a vineyard in a fat place. 2. And he fenced it, and covered it with heaps of stones, and put noble vines therein. And he built a tower in it, and digged a winepress in it, and waited for it to bring forth grapes. But he brought forth grapes. 3. Now therefore judge, ye citizens of Jerusalem, and ye men of Judah, between me and my vineyard. 4. What more shall be done in my vineyard, that I have not done in it? Why then hath he brought forth seedlings, when I waited for him to bring forth grapes? 5. Now therefore, I will shew you what I will do unto my vineyard. The wall thereof shall be taken away, that it may be desolate; and the fence thereof shall be broken down, that it may be trodden under foot. 6. I will leave it desolate, and it shall not be cut, neither chopped, but thorns and briers shall grow upon it: and I will command the clouds that they rain not upon it. 7. Now the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel; and the men of Judah are his tender flock. He waiteth for justice, behold, it is drudgery; for righteousness, behold, it is lamentation. 8. Woe unto them that set house against house, and bring one field to another, until there be no more room, that they alone may possess the land! 9. It is in the ears of the LORD of hosts: what is the matter, but that the many houses shall be desolate, and the great and the good shall stand waste? 10. For ten acres of vineyard shall yield but one bucket, and one bushel of seed shall yield but one bushel. 11. Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning to be diligent to drink, and sit up to night, to be heated with wine, 12. And they have harps, and psalteries, and timbrels, and pipes, and wine, in their good pleasure, and look not on the work of the LORD, nor consider the business of his hands. 13. Therefore shall my people be taken away unawares; and their nobles shall hunger, and their people thirst. 14. Therefore hath hell opened wide the soul, and opened the jaws without measure, that both her glorious and her vile, both her rich and her merry, may go down, 15. That every man should stoop, and every man be humbled, and the eyes of the proud be humbled, 16. But let the LORD of hosts be exalted in judgment, and let God the Holy One be sanctified in righteousness. 17. Then shall the lambs feed in that place, and the strangers shall feed in the wilderness of fatness. 18. Woe unto them that cleave together with loose cords to do iniquity, and with chariot ropes to sin, 19. Saying: Let his work come quickly and speedily, that we may see it; let it come, and let the stroke of the Holy One come upon Israel, that we may know it. 20. Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that turn darkness into light, and light into darkness; that turn sour into sweet, and sweet into sour! 21. Woe unto them that are wise in themselves, and think themselves wise! 22. Woe unto them that are valiant in drinking wine, and warriors in gluttony, 23. Who give judgment to the wicked for a gift, and turn away the judgment of the righteous from them. 24. Therefore as the flame of the fire devoureth straw, and as the tuft taketh up stubble, so shall their root rot, and their shoot as dust. For they despise the law of the LORD of hosts, and blaspheme the words of the Holy One in Israel. 25. Therefore the anger of the LORD is kindled against his people, and he stretcheth out his hand against them, and smiteth them, that the mountains quake; and their carcase is as dung in the streets. And in all this his anger is not abated, but his hand is stretched out. 26. For he shall cast a banner afar off among the heathen, and shall draw them from the ends of the earth. And, behold, they come with haste and speed! 27. And there is none of them that is weary or faint, neither slumbereth nor sleepeth, neither doth his girdle unloose from his loins, neither doth his shoe-strap rent. 28. Their arrows are sharp, and all their bows are strained. The hoofs of his horses are like rocks, and the wheels of his chariots are like a whirlwind. 29. They shall roar like lions, and roar like young lions: they shall roar, and take the spoil, and carry it away, that no man shall deliver. 30. And shall roar upon them in that day as the sea. And when they look upon the land, behold, it is dark with fear, and the light shineth no more above them. (Isaiah) Chapter 6 Isaiah sees God's glory. 1. In the year that king Uzziah died, I saw the LORD sitting on a high and lofty throne, and his hem filled the temple. 2. Seraphim stood over him, every one having six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3. And one cried unto another, saying, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the tables of the earth are full of his glory. 4. And the overflowing waves shook at the voice of their cry, and the house was filled with smoke. 5. And I said, Woe is me, I perish! For I am of unclean lips, and dwell among a people of unclean lips: for I have seen the King, the LORD of hosts, with mine eyes. 6. Then one of the seraphim flew unto me, having a burning coal in his hand, which he took with tongs from the altar, 7. And he stirred up my mouth, and said, Behold, thy lips are hereby stirred, that thine iniquity may be put away from thee, and that thy sin may be atoned for. 8. And I heard the voice of the LORD saying, Whom shall I send? Who shall be our messenger? And I said, Here am I; send me. 9. And he said, Go, and say unto this people, Hear, and understand not; see, and perceive not. 10. Harden the heart of this people, and make their ears thick, and blind their eyes; that they see not with their eyes, nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and be healed. 11. And I said, Lord, how long? And he said, Till the cities be desolate without inhabitant, and the houses without people, and the field lie all waste. 12. For the LORD will remove the people afar off, and the land shall be very desolate: 13. But the tenth part shall remain in it: for it shall be taken away, and destroyed, as the oak and the linden tree, which have the trunk, though their leaves be cast off. Such a trunk shall be a holy seed. (Isaiah) Chapter 7 The Messiah is to be born of a virgin. 1. And it came to pass in the days of Ahaz the son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah king of Judah, that Rezin king of Syria and Pekah the son of Remaliah king of Israel went up to Jerusalem to fight against them, but could not prevail against them. 2. And it was told the house of David, saying, The Syrians rely upon Ephraim. Then his heart and the heart of his people trembled, as the trees of the forest tremble with the wind. 3. And the LORD said unto Isaiah: Go out to meet Ahaz, thou, and Sear-jashub thy son, unto the end of the water-pipes by the upper pool, by the way of the dyer's field, 4. And say unto him, Beware, and be still. Fear not, and let not thine heart be troubled for these two fires of fire, which smoke, even for the wrath of Rezin with the Syrians, and for the wrath of the son of Remaliah, 5. That the Syrians have made an evil counsel against thee, with Ephraim and the son of Remaliah, saying: 6. And we will go up to Judah, and raise them up, and divide them among us, and make the son of Tabeal king within. 7. For thus saith the LORD GOD; It shall not stand, nor be so, 8. But as Damascus is the head of Syria, so Rezin shall be the head of Damascus. And sixty and five years shall be the end of Ephraim, and they shall be no more one people. 9. And as Samaria is the head of Ephraim, so shall the son of Remaliah be the head of Samaria. If ye believe not, ye shall not abide. (Epistle on the day of the Annunciation Mary.) 10. And the LORD spake again unto Alias, saying: 11. Ask thee a sign from the LORD thy God, whether it be in hell below, or in heaven above. 12. But Alias said: I will not require it, lest I tempt the LORD. 13. And he said, Come now, ye of the house of David, is it not enough for you to offend men; ye must also offend my God? 14. Therefore the LORD himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin is with child, and shall bring forth a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 15. Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know how to reject evil, and to choose good. 16. For before the child learneth to reject evil, and to choose good, the land which thou fearest shall be forsaken of her two kings]. 17. But the LORD will bring upon thee, and upon thy people, and upon thy father's house, days that are not come since the time that Ephraim was separated from Judah by the king of Assyria; 18. For in that day shall the LORD swallow up the fly that is at the end of the waters of Egypt, and the bee that is in the land of Assyria, 19. And they shall come and lay them all down by the dry brooks, and in the clefts of the rocks, and in every hedge, and in every bush. 20. In that day shall the LORD shave off the head, and the hair of the feet, and take off the beard with a hired clipper, even by them that are beyond the water, as by the king of Assyria. 21. In that day shall a man draw a herd of cows, and two flocks. 22. And he shall have so much to milk, that he shall eat butter: for butter and honey shall he eat that is left in the land. 23. For it shall come to pass in that day, that where now there are a thousand vines worth a thousand shekels of silver, there shall be thorns and hedges, 24. To go thither with bows and arrows. For throughout the land there will be thorns and hedges, 25. And it shall come to pass, that in all the mountains which are hewn down with hews, they shall not come for fear of the thorns and the hedges, but shall let oxen go there, and sheep tread thereon. Ch. 8, v. 1: And the Lord said unto me, Take thee a great letter, and write thereon with a man's pen, saying, Robbery, haste. 2. And I took unto me two faithful witnesses, Uriah the priest, and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah, 3. And I went unto a prophetess, and she conceived, and bare a son. And the LORD said unto me, Call his name Raubebald, hurry up. 4. For before the child can cry: Dear father, dear mother, the power of Damascus and the spoils of Samaria shall be taken away by the king of Assyria. 5. And the LORD spake unto me further, saying; 6. Because this people despised the waters of Shiloh, which were still, and took comfort of Rezin the son of Remaliah, 7. Behold, the LORD shall bring upon them strong waters, and many waters of the river, even the king of Assyria, and all his glory, to pass over all their rivers, and to go over all their banks; 8. And shall break in upon Judah, and shall flood, and go over, until they reach unto the neck, and shall spread their wings, and fill thy land, O Immanuel, as far as it is. (Isaiah) Chapter 8 Punishment of all the people of Israel, comfort of the godly. 9. Be ye wicked, ye nations, and yet give way. Hear ye, all ye that are in far countries, Prepare yourselves, and give flight: rather, prepare yourselves, and give flight. 10. Take counsel, and nothing shall come of it. Come to an agreement, and nothing will come of it; for here is Immanuel. 11. For thus saith the LORD unto me, as if he had taken me by the hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying: 12. Ye shall not say, Covenant. This people speak of nothing but covenant. Fear not therefore, as they do; neither be afraid, 13. But sanctify the LORD of hosts. Let him be your fear and your terror, 14. He shall be a sanctification, but a stumblingblock and a rock of offence unto the two houses of Israel, a snare and a trial unto the inhabitants of Jerusalem, 15. That many of them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be entangled, and be taken. 16. Bind up the testimony, seal the law unto my disciples. 17. For I hope in the LORD, which hid his face from the house of Jacob: but I wait for him. 18. Behold, here am I, and the children which the LORD hath given me, for a sign and for a wonder in Israel, from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion. 19. And when they say unto you, Ye must ask the diviners and the interpreters of signs, which prate and debate; say ye, Shall not a people ask their God? or shall the dead be asked for the living? 20. Yea, according to the law and testimony. If they will not say this, they will not have the dawn, 21. But shall go about in the land smitten hard, and hungry. And when they are hungry, they shall be wroth, and curse their king, and their God. 22. And they shall look upon the earth above them, and shall look upon the earth beneath them, and shall find nothing but gloom and darkness: for they are weary with fear, and go astray in darkness. Ch. 9, v. 1: For there shall be another trouble that troubleth them, as in the days of old, when it was easy in the land of Zebulun, and in the land of Naphtali; and afterward it was hard by the way of the sea, on this side Jordan, in Galilee of the Gentiles. (Isaiah) Chapter 9 The Messiah's birth, name and kingdom. (Epistle on Christmas Day.) 2. The people that walk in darkness behold a great light; and upon them that dwell in the land of darkness it shineth brightly. 3. Thou makest the heathen much; thou makest not much joy. But before thee shall men rejoice, as one rejoiceth in harvest, as one rejoiceth when he divideth the spoil. 4. For thou hast broken the yoke of their burden, and the rod of their shoulder, and the staff of their driver, as in the days of Midian. 5. For all warfare with tumult and bloody raiment shall be burned up, and consumed with fire. 6. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, whose dominion is upon his shoulder: and his name is Wonderful, Counsellor, Strength, Hero, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, 7. That his dominion might be great, and that there should be no end of peace in the throne of David, and in his kingdom; that he might establish it, and strengthen it with judgment and righteousness from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this. 8. The LORD sent a word in Jacob, and fell in Israel, 9. That all the people of Ephraim, and the inhabitants of Samaria, which say in pride and loftiness of mind, may be brought to remembrance: 10. Bricks are fallen, but we will build it again with pieces: they have cut down mulberry trees, and we will put cedars in their place. 11. For the LORD will raise up the armies of Rezin against them, and will cut off their enemies in multitude: 12. The Syrians in the front, and the Philistines in the rear, shall devour Israel with their mouths. In all this his anger is not yet abated; his hand is yet stretched out. 13. Neither do the people turn unto him that smiteth them, nor inquire of the LORD of hosts. 14. Therefore the LORD will cut off from Israel both head and tail, both branch and stump, in one day. 15. The old men of truth are the head: but the prophets that teach falsely are the tail. 16. For the leaders of this people are deceivers, and they that are led are lost. 17. Therefore the LORD cannot rejoice over their young men, neither have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for they are all hypocrites and wicked, and their mouth speaketh folly. In all this his wrath is not yet abated; his hand is yet stretched out. 18. For the ungodly is kindled like fire, and devoureth thorns and hedges, and burneth as in a thick forest, and giveth great smoke. 19. For in the wrath of the LORD of hosts the land is darkened, and the people are as meat of fire: they spare not one another. 20. If they rob on the right hand, they hunger: if they eat on the left hand, they are not satisfied. Every man eateth the flesh of his own arm: 21. Manasseh against Ephraim, and Ephraim against Manasseh, and they together against Judah. In all this his anger is not abated; his hand is stretched out. (Isaiah) Chapter 10 Punishment of injustice. Downfall of the Assyrians. 1. Woe unto the scribes that make unrighteous laws, and that write unrighteous judgments, 2. That they may plead the cause of the poor, and do violence in the judgment of the wretched among my people, that widows may be their spoil, and fatherless their prey. 3. What will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the day of calamity that cometh from afar? To whom will ye flee for help, and where will ye leave your honour? 4. That it be not bowed down among the captives, and fall among them that are slain? In all this his anger is not abated; his hand is yet stretched out. 5. O woe unto Assyria, which is the rod of mine anger, and her hand the staff of my fury! 6. And I will send him against a hypocritical people, and will command him against the people of mine anger, to spoil them, and to divide them, and to tread them down as the dung of the street, 7. Though he mean not so, neither think so in his heart; but his heart is to destroy and to cut off not a few nations. 8. For he saith, Are not all my princes kings? 9. Is not Kalno like Karchemis? Is not Hamath like Arpad? Is not Samaria like Damascus? 10. As mine hand hath found the kingdoms of idols, though their idols were stronger than those that are in Jerusalem and Samaria: 11. Shall I not do to Jerusalem and her idols, as I did to Samaria and her idols? 12. And it shall come to pass, when the LORD hath finished all his work in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, that I will punish the fruit of the proud king of Assyria, and the glory of his haughty eyes, 13. Because he saith, I have wrought it out by the power of mine hands, and by my wisdom; for I am wise: I have divided the countries in other ways, and have spoiled their revenue, and have cast down the inhabitants to the ground like a mighty man, 14. And mine hand hath found the nations like a bird's nest; and I have gathered all the countries together, as one gathereth up eggs that are left, when no man stirreth up a feather, or openeth his beak, or hisseth. 15. May an axe boast against him that heweth therewith, or a saw defy him that cutteth therewith, as he that leadeth the rod, and lifteth it up, and leadeth it as lightly as if it were not wood? 16. Therefore the LORD of hosts will send drought among his fat ones, and he will kindle his glory, and it shall burn as the fire. 17. And the light of Israel shall be a fire, and his holy one shall be a flame, and shall kindle his thorns and his hedges, and consume them in one day. 18. And the glory of his forest and of his field shall be destroyed from the souls even to the flesh, and shall perish and vanish away, 19. That the rest of the trees of his forest may be numbered, and a lad may mark them. 20. In that day the remnant of Israel, and they that are saved of the house of Jacob, shall no more rely upon him that smiteth them; but they shall rely upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. 21. The remnant shall be converted, even the remnant in Jacob, unto GOD the strong. 22. For though thy people, O Israel, be as the sand of the sea, yet the remnant of them shall be converted. For when destruction is prevented, righteousness cometh abundantly. 23. For the LORD of hosts shall cause destruction to come, and shall bring it upon all the earth. 24. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Fear not, my people that dwell in Zion, before Assyria. He shall smite thee with a rod, and lift up his staff against thee, as it was in Egypt. 25. For there is yet but a little to be done, and there shall be an end of iniquity, and of mine anger against their iniquity. 26. Then shall the LORD of hosts raise up a scourge upon him, as in the battle of Midian upon the rock Oreb; and he shall lift up his rod, which he used by the sea, as in Egypt. 27. In that day shall his burden depart from thy shoulder, and his yoke from thy neck: for the yoke shall rot before the fatness. 28. He cometh (let it be) to Ajath; he passeth through Migron; he musteth his stuff to Michmash. 29. They pass over Geba before our camp: Ramah is afraid, Gibeath of Saul is afraid. 30. Thou daughter of Gallim, cry aloud; take heed, Laishah, thou wretched Anathoth! 31. Madmena gives way; the citizens of Gebim strengthen themselves. 32. For it may be that he will tarry a day at Nob; and he will lift up his hand against the mountain of the daughter of Zion, and against the hill of Jerusalem. 33. But, behold, the LORD of hosts shall hew down the boughs with power, and shall shorten the things that are lifted up, that the high places may be humbled. 34. And the thick forest shall be hewn down with iron, and Lebanon shall fall by the mighty. (Isaiah) Chapter 11 Christ and his gospel power. (Epistle on the day of the Visitation.) 1. And there shall come up a rod from the tribe of Jesse, and a branch from his root shall bring forth fruit. 2. Upon whom shall rest the Spirit of the LORD, the Spirit of wisdom, and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel, and of strength, the Spirit of knowledge, and of the fear of the LORD. 3. And his smelling shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge according to that his eyes see, nor punish according to that his ears hear, 4. But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and with judgment shall he punish the wretched of the earth: and with the rod of his mouth shall he smite the earth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. 5. Righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faith the girdle of his kidneys. 6. The wolves shall dwell with the lambs, and the pardel shall lie with the rams. A little boy shall drive calves and young lions and fatlings together. 7. Cows and bears shall go by the pasture, and their young shall lie down together: and lions shall eat straw like oxen. 8. And an infant shall have his delight in the hole of the adder, and a weaned man shall put his hand into the den of the basilisk. 9. There shall no man hurt nor destroy in my holy mountain: for the land is full of the knowledge of the LORD, as it is covered with the waters of the sea. 10. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the root of Jesse, which is for a panoply to the nations, shall be inquired of by the heathen; and his rest shall be honour. 11. And the LORD shall stretch out his hand in that day the second time, to conquer the remnant of his people that are left of the Assyrians, and of the Egyptians, and of the Pathros, and of the Moors, and of the Elamites, and of Sinear, and of Hamath, and of the isles of the sea, 12. And he shall set a standard among the heathen, and gather together the outcasts of Israel, and shall bring the dispersed of Judah by multitude out of the four places of the earth. 13. And the envy of Ephraim shall cease, and the enemies of Judah shall be cut off, that Ephraim envy not Judah, and Judah be not against Ephraim. 14. And they shall be upon the neck of the Philistines toward the west, and shall spoil all them that dwell toward the east. Edom and Moab shall fold their hands against them. And the children of Ammon shall be obedient. 15. And the LORD shall destroy the river of the sea in Egypt, and shall cause his hand to pass over the waters with his strong wind, and shall smite the seven rivers, that men may pass through with shoes. 16. And there shall be a course for the remnant of his people that remain of the Assyrians, as it was to Israel when they came out of the land of Egypt. (Isaiah) Chapter 12 Song of thanksgiving for the good deeds of the Messiah. 1. In that day shalt thou say, I thank thee, O Lord, that thou wast angry with me, and that thine anger is turned, and thou hast comforted me. 2. Behold, God is my salvation; I am safe, and fear not: for the Lord God is my strength, and my psalm, and is my salvation. 3. ye shall draw water with joy out of the wells of salvation. 4. And ye shall say in that day, Give thanks unto the LORD, preach his name, make known his doings among the nations, declare how great is his name. 5. Sing ye praises unto the LORD: for he hath shewed himself glorious: let it be known throughout all the earth. 6. Rejoice and be glad, O inhabitant of Zion: for the Holy One of Israel is great with thee. (Isaiah) Chapter 13 Destruction of the Babylonian Empire. 1. This is the burden over Babylon, which Isaiah the son of Amoz saw: 2. Cast up your banners upon the high mountains; cry out against them with confidence; lift up your hands, let them enter in through the gates of the princes. 3. I have commanded my holy ones, and called my strong ones to my wrath, which rejoice in my glory. 4. There is a shout of a multitude upon the mountains, as of a great people; a shout as of a tumult of the kingdoms of the heathen gathered together. The LORD of hosts maketh ready an army to battle, 5. Who come from far countries, from the end of heaven, even the LORD himself, with the witness of his wrath, to destroy the whole land. 6. Hasten: for the day of the LORD is at hand; it cometh as a desolation from the Almighty. 7. Therefore shall all hands be idle, and all men's hearts shall be cowardly. 8. Terrors, and fears, and sorrows, shall come upon them: they shall be as afraid as a woman in childbirth: one shall be afraid of another: their faces shall be red with fire. 9. For, behold, the day of the LORD cometh cruelly, wrathfully, fiercely, to destroy the land, and to cut off sinners out of it. 10. For the stars of heaven and his Orion shine not brightly: the sun riseth darkly, and the moon seemeth dim. 11. I will punish the earth for its wickedness, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will put an end to the pride of the proud, and will humble the arrogance of the mighty, 12. That a man should be more precious than fine gold, and a man more precious than gold pieces of Ophir. 13. Therefore will I move heaven, and the earth shall shake out of her place with the fury of the LORD of hosts, and with the day of his wrath. 14. And she shall be as a roe deer driven away, and as a flock without a shepherd: and every man shall return to his own people, and every man shall flee to his own land, 15. Because he that is found there shall be stabbed, and he that is found there shall fall by the sword. 16. Their children also shall be broken in pieces before their eyes, and their houses plundered, and their wives ravished. 17. For, behold, I will raise up the Medes upon them, which seek not silver, nor ask for gold, 18. But to shoot the young men with bows, and not to have mercy on the fruit of the womb, nor to spare the children. 19. So Babylon, the most beautiful of kingdoms, the glorious splendor of the Chaldeans, shall be turned back from God, as Sodom and Gomorrah, 20. That they dwell therein no more, neither abide therein any more, neither do the Arabians make tents there, nor do the shepherds put up fences there, 21. But zihim shall encamp there, and their houses shall be full of ohim, and ostriches shall dwell there, and spirits of the field shall leap there, 22. And owls shall sing in their palaces, and dragons in the merry castles. And their time shall come sheerly, and their days shall not tarry. Ch. 14, v. 1: For the LORD will have mercy upon Jacob, and will choose Israel yet more, and will set them in their own land. And strangers shall join themselves unto them, and cleave unto the house of Jacob. 2. And the nations shall receive them, and bring them into their place, and the house of Israel shall possess them in the land of the LORD for bondmen and bondwomen: and they shall take them captives of whom they were captives, and shall rule over their beaters. (Isaiah) Chapter 14 Fall of the Babylonians and Assyrians. 3. And in that day when the LORD shall give thee rest from thy mourning and from thy suffering, and from the hard service wherein thou hast been, 4. Then shalt thou speak such a proverb against the king of Babylon, saying, How is the driver finished, and the interest is ended? 5. The LORD hath broken the rod of the wicked, the rod of the rulers, 6. Which smote the nations in fury without ceasing, and ruled with fury over the heathen, and persecuted without mercy. 7. Now therefore let all the earth rest, and be still, and rejoice. 8. The fir trees also rejoice over thee, and the cedars of Lebanon, saying, Because thou liest, no man cometh up to cut us off. 9. The hell that was below trembled at thy coming. She hath raised up the dead unto thee, all the goats of the earth, and hath caused all the kings of the heathen to rise from their seats, 10. And they shall all speak one to another, and say unto thee, Thou also art smitten, as we are smitten; and it shall be unto thee as it is unto us. 11. Thy glory is gone down to hell with the sound of thy harps. Moths shall be thy bed, and worms thy covering. 12. How art thou fallen from heaven, O beautiful morning star! How art thou fallen to the earth, who didst weaken the heathen! 13. Thou hast thought in thine heart, saying, I will ascend into heaven, and will exalt my throne above the stars of God; 14. I will sit upon the mount of the congregation on the side toward the north: I will pass over the high clouds, and be like unto the most High. 15. yea, to hell thou goest, to the side of the pit. 16. He that beholdeth thee shall look upon thee, and behold thee, and say, Is this the man that made the world to tremble, and the kingdoms to shake? 17. Who made the earth a desolation, and brake in pieces the cities that were therein, and delivered not his captives? 18. Though all the kings of the heathen lie together with honour, every one in his own house; 19. But thou art rejected from thy grave as a despised branch, as the garment of them that are slain with the sword, which go down to the heaps of stones of hell, as a trodden down corpse. 20. Thou shalt not be buried like them: for thou hast destroyed thy land, and slain thy people: for the seed of the wicked shall never be remembered. 21. Let his children be slain for the iniquity of their fathers, that they rise not up, nor inherit the land, nor fill the earth with cities. 22. And I will come upon them, saith the LORD of hosts, and will cut off from Babylon their remnant, and their nephews, and their seed, saith the LORD, 23. And I will make them an inheritance to the hedgehogs, and a lake of waters, and will sweep them with a broom of destruction, saith the LORD of hosts. 24. The LORD of hosts hath sworn, saying, What is the matter? let it go as I think, and let it stand as I have it in mind, 25. And Assyria shall be broken in my land, and I will tread him down upon my mountains, that his yoke may be taken from them, and his burden from off their neck. 26. This is the stroke which he hath over all the earth, and this is the stretched out hand over all the nations. 27. For the LORD of hosts hath decreed it: who shall withstand it? And his hand is stretched out; who shall turn it? (Isaiah) Chapter 15 Devastation of the Philistines. 28. In the year that king Ahaz died was this the burden: 29. Rejoice not, all ye Philistines, that the rod that smote thee is broken. For out of the root of the serpent shall come a basilisk, and his fruit shall be a fiery flying dragon. 30. For the firstfruits of the needy shall feed, and the poor shall rest safely: but thy root will I kill with famine, and thy remnant shall he slain. 21. Howl, O gate; cry out, O city. All the Philistine country is cowardly: for from midnight there cometh a smoke, and there is none solitary in his tents. 32. And what shall the messengers of the Gentiles say now and then? Namely, Zion hath the LORD founded; and there shall the afflicted of his people have confidence. (Isaiah) Chapter 16 Plague and fall of the Moabites. Ch. 15, v. 1: This is the burden upon Moab: Disturbance cometh by night upon Ar in Moab; she is gone. At night disturbance cometh upon Kir in Moab; it is gone. 2. They go up to Baith and Dibon unto the altars, and weep and wail over Nebo and Medbah in Moab. Every head is shaven, every beard is cut off. 3. In their streets they walk girded with sackcloth; in their housetops and in their streets they all howl, and go down weeping. 4. Heshbon and Eleale cry out, and they are heard in Jahaz. Wherefore the scaffolded of Moab mourn: for their soul is evil. 5. My heart crieth unto Moab; her fugitives flee from the heifer of three years, even unto Zoar: for they go up to Luhith, and weep; and in the way of Horonaim there is a cry of lamentation. 6. For the waters of Nimrim are dried up, and the hay is withered, and the grass withereth, and no green herb groweth. 7. For the goods which they have gathered, and the people which they have armed, are carried over the brook of the willows. 8. Cries are heard in the borders of Moab; they howl unto Eglaim, and howl at the spring of Elim. 9. For the waters of Dimon are full of blood. And I will bring more upon Dimon, both upon them that are preserved in Moab the Lion, and upon the remnant of the land. Ch. 16. v. 1. Rather send, ye rulers of the land, lambs of Selah out of the wilderness unto the mount of the daughter of Zion. 2. But as a bird fleeth, when it is driven out of the nest, so shall the daughters of Moab be, when they pass before Arnon. 3. Gather counsel, hold judgment; make thee the shadow of the noonday as of a night; hide the driven out, and report not the fugitive. 4. Let my exiles lodge with thee; O Moab, be thou their shield from the destroyer: then shall the driver be ended, and the destroyer cease, and the trespasser depart out of the land. 5. And a throne shall be prepared by grace, that one may sit upon it in the truth, in the tabernacle of David, to judge, and to seek judgment, and to promote righteousness. 6. And we hear of the arrogance of Moab, that it is almost great; that also their arrogance, and their pride, and their wrath, are greater than their might. 7. Therefore shall one Moabite howl over another; all of them shall howl. Over the foundations of the city of Kir-hareseth shall the crippled groan: 8. For Heshbon is become a desolate field; the vine of Sibmah is corrupt: the lords of the heathen have broken down the noble branches thereof, and are come unto Jaesher, and are moved in the wilderness: their festers are scattered, and are carried over the sea. 9. Therefore I weep for Jaeser, and for the vine of Sibmah, and shed many tears for Heshbon and Eleale. For there is a song fallen into thy summer, and into thy harvest, 10. Joy and gladness are ceased in the field; and in the vineyards there is no shouting or rejoicing. They press no wine in the winepresses: I have made an end of singing. 11. Therefore my heart murmureth over Moab like a harp, and my inward parts over Kir-hares. 12. Then shall it be seen how Moab is weary at the altars, and how he hath gone to his church to pray, and hath not prospered. 13. This is the thing which the LORD spake against Moab in those days. 14. And now the LORD speaketh, saying, In three years, as the years of a hired servant, shall the glory of Moab be few in multitude; and there shall be a little left, and not much. (Isaiah) Chapter 17 Burden of Damascus, the Israelites and Assyrians. 1. This is the burden of Damascus: behold, Damascus shall be no more a city, but a heap of stones broken down. 2. The cities of Aroer shall be desolate, and the flocks shall feed there, and no man shall drive them out. 3. And the fortress of Ephraim shall be finished: and the kingdom of Damascus, and the remnant of Syria, shall be as the glory of the children of Israel, saith the LORD of hosts. 4. In that day shall the glory of Jacob be thin, and his fat body shall be lean. 5. For it shall be as when one gathered in corn in the harvest, and as when one gathered in ears with his arm, and as when one gathered in ears in the valley of Rephaim, 6. And there shall be a harvest in it, as when a tree of olive oil is shaken, and two and three berries remain in the top of the tree, or as when four or five fruits hang upon the branches, saith the LORD God of Israel. 7. In that day shall a man cleave unto him that made him; and his eyes shall be upon the Holy One in Israel. 8. And he shall not keep himself to the altars which his hands have made, neither shall he look upon that which his fingers have made, neither to groves, nor to images. 9. In that day shall the cities of their strength be as a branch and twig forsaken before the children of Israel, and shall be desolate. 10. For thou hast forgotten God thy salvation, and hast not remembered the rock of thy strength. Therefore thou shalt plant pleasant plants, but thou shalt have laid a foothold for strangers. 11. In the time of planting thou shalt wait, that thy seed may grow in time: but in the harvest, when thou shalt inherit the almonds, thou shalt have the pains of a sorrowful man. 12. O woe unto the multitude of such great people! It will roar like the sea, and the tumult of the people will rage like great waters. 13. Yea, as great waters rage, so shall the people rage. But he shall rebuke them, and they shall flee far away: and he shall pursue them, as the wind doeth to the dust of the mountains, and as the storm doeth to the whirlwind of the wind. 14. At evening, behold, there is terror; and before morning they are no more. This is the reward of our robbers, and the inheritance of them that take away our own. (Isaiah) Chapter 18 The Moors Visitation and Conversion. 1. Woe to the land that flieth under the sails in the shadow, on this side the waters of the land of the Moors, 2. Which sendeth tidings by sea, and saileth upon the waters in vessels of reeds. Go ye, ye swift messengers, unto the people that are rent and spoiled, unto the people that are more abominable than any other, unto the people that are here and there measured out and trodden down, to whom the rivers of waters take their land. 3. All ye that dwell on the earth, and are seated in the land, shall see the banners cast up on the mountains, and hear the sound of the trumpets. 4. For thus saith the LORD unto me, I will keep still, and look in my seat, as a heat that driveth up the rain, and as a molten dew in the heat of harvest. 5. For before the harvest the crop shall be cut off, and the unripe fruit shall wither in the blossom; and the stalks shall be cut off with pruning hooks, and the vines put away, and cut down, 6. To let the fowls of the mountains and the beasts of the earth lie together, that the fowls may nest therein in summer, and that all manner of beasts may lie in the earth in winter. 7. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the people which is torn and spoiled, which is more abominable than any other, which is here and there measured out and trodden down, whose land is taken by the rivers of waters, shall bring gifts unto the LORD of hosts unto the place where the name of the LORD of hosts is, unto mount Zion. (Isaiah) Chapter 19 Destruction and.. Conversion of the Egyptians. 1. This is the burden of Egypt: Behold, the LORD shall ride upon a swift cloud, and come into Egypt. Then shall the idols of Egypt tremble before him, and the Egyptians' hearts shall wax faint in their flesh. 2. And I will set the Egyptians against one another; and brother shall fight against brother, and friend against friend, and city against city, and kingdom against kingdom. 3. And the courage of the Egyptians among them shall perish, and their devices shall be destroyed. Then shall they ask their idols, and their priests, and their diviners, and their interpreters of signs. 4. But I will deliver the Egyptians into the hand of cruel lords; and a fierce king shall reign over them, saith the LORD of hosts. 5. And the waters of the seas shall dry up, and the river shall dry up and disappear. 6. And the waters shall run down, and the lakes shall be few and dry at the dams, and the reeds and the cane shall wither away, 7. And the grass by the waters shall die, and all the seed by the waters shall wither and come to nothing. 8. And the fishermen shall mourn; and all they that cast fishing-rods into the water shall mourn; and they that let down their nets into the water shall be grieved. 9. They shall stand with shame that work good yarn, and knit nets. 10. And they that have ponds, and all they that make ponds for wages, shall be troubled. 11. The princes of Zoan are fools; the wise counsellors of Pharaoh are become fools in the council. What say ye of Pharaoh, I am the child of the wise, and come of ancient kings? 12. Where then are thy wise men? Let them tell thee, and shew thee what the LORD of hosts hath decreed for Egypt. 13. But the princes of Zoan are fools, the princes of Noph are deceived: they deceive with Egypt the cornerstone of the families. 14. For the LORD hath poured out a spirit of deceit among them, to deceive Egypt in all their doings, as a drunken man staggereth when he drinketh. 15. And Egypt shall have nothing that beareth head, or tail, or branch, or stump. 16. In that day shall Egypt be as women, and shall fear and be afraid, when the LORD of hosts shall stretch forth his hand upon her. 17. And Egypt shall be afraid of the land of Judah: and he that remembereth it shall be afraid of it, because of the counsel of the LORD of hosts, which he hath determined against them. 18. In that day shall five cities of the land of Egypt speak after the language of Canaan, and swear by the LORD of hosts. One shall be called Irheres. 19. In that day shall the altar of the LORD be in the midst of the land of Egypt, and the mark of the LORD in the borders thereof, 20. Which shall be a sign and a witness unto the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt. For they shall cry unto the LORD in the presence of the insulters; and he shall send them a Saviour and a Master to deliver them. 21. For the LORD shall be known unto the Egyptians: and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall serve him with sacrifice and meat offering, and shall vow unto the LORD, and keep the vow. 22. And the LORD shall afflict the Egyptians, and heal them: for they shall turn unto the LORD, and he shall be entreated, and heal them. 23. And it shall come to pass in that day, that there shall be a course from Egypt into Assyria, that the Assyrians shall come into Egypt, and the Egyptians into Assyria; and the Egyptians with the Assyrians shall serve God. 24. In that day shall Israel be third with the Egyptians and Assyrians by the blessing that shall be upon the earth. 25. For the LORD of hosts shall bless them, saying: Blessed art thou, O Egypt, my people; and thou, O Assyria, the work of my hands; and thou, O Israel, my inheritance. (Isaiah) Chapter 20 The Egyptian and Moor's prison. 1. In the year that Tartan came to Ashdod, when Sargon king of Assyria had sent him, he fought against Ashdod, and took them, 2. At that time the LORD spake by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, Go, take off thy sackcloth from off thy loins, and put off thy shoes from off thy feet. And he did so, walking naked and barefooted. 3. And the LORD said, As my servant Isaiah goeth naked and barefooted for a sign and for a wonder of three years over Egypt and over the land of Moor, 4. So shall the king of Assyria drive captive Egypt, and drive out the land of the Moors, both young and old, naked and barefooted, with naked shame, to the shame of Egypt. 5. And they shall be afraid, and shall stand in shame upon the land of the Moors, whereon they trusted, and again the land of the Moors upon the Egyptians, whom they boasted of. 6. And the inhabitants of these isles shall say in that day, Is this our hope, when we fled for help, that we might be delivered from the king of Assyria? How well we have escaped! (Isaiah) Chapter 21 The burden of Babels, Dumas and Arabia. 1. This is the burden of the wilderness by the sea: as the weather cometh from the south, and turneth all things, so cometh it out of the wilderness, out of a cruel land. 2. For a stern face is shewed me. One despiser cometh against another, one disturber against another. Show up, Elam; prove them, Madai! I will make an end of all his sighing. 3. Therefore my loins are full of pain, and fear hath taken hold upon me, as a woman in childbirth: I bow down when I hear it, and am afraid when I look upon it. 4. My heart trembles, horror hath terrified me; I have no rest from it in the dear night. 5. Yea, prepare a table, let watch in the waiting place, eat, drink; arise, ye princes, smear the shield. 6. For thus saith the LORD unto me, Go, set a watchman to watch and to tell. 7. And he seeth riders riding, and going on horses, and asses, and camels, and hath respect unto them with great diligence. 8. And a lion cried: Lord, I stand upon the watch by day, and stand upon my guard by night. 9. And, behold, there cometh one riding in a chariot, which answereth and saith, Babylon is fallen, she is fallen, and all the images of her gods are cast down to the ground. 10. My good threshingfloor, whereon I thresh: that which I have heard of the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, I declare unto you. 11. This is the burden of Duma. They cry unto me from Seir, O keeper, is the night almost gone? O keeper, is the night almost gone? 12. And the keeper said, Though the morning come, yet shall it be night. Though ye ask, yet shall ye come again, and ask again: 13. This is the burden of Arabia: ye shall dwell in the forest of Arabia, by the way of Dedanim. 14. Bring water to the thirsty, ye that dwell in the land of Thema; offer bread to the fugitives. 15. For they flee from the sword, yea, from the naked sword, from the bended bow, from the great battle. 16. For thus saith the LORD unto me, In one year, as the years of the hired servant, shall all the glory of Kedar perish, 17. And the remnant of the captains of the guard of Kedar shall be less: for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken it. (Isaiah) Chapter 22 Jerusalem besieged; Zebna overthrown; Eliakim appointed. 1. This is the burden of the valley of the shews: what is the matter with you, that ye all run upon the housetops? 2. Thou wast full of sound, a city of people, a joyful city. Thy slain are not slain with the sword, nor died in strife, 3. But all thy captains are fled before the bow, and are taken: all that were found in thee are taken, and fled far away. 4. Therefore I say, Lift up yourselves from me, let me weep bitterly; trouble not yourselves to comfort me over the destruction of the daughter of my people. 5. For it is a day of tumult, and of destruction, and of confusion, from the LORD of hosts in the valley of the rock, because of the pulling down of the walls, and the crying of the mountain. 6. For Elam cometh with quiver, and with chariots, and with men, and with horsemen; and Kir shineth with shields. 7. And it shall come to pass, that thy chosen valleys shall be full of chariots, and horsemen shall lie down before the gates. 8. And the veil of Judah shall be uncovered, and in that day shall be seen the stuff of the house of the forest. 9. And ye shall see many breaches in the city of David, and shall gather the waters into the lower pool. 10. Ye shall also number the houses of Jerusalem; yea, ye shall break down the houses to fortify the walls. 11. And ye shall make a trench between the two walls of the waters of the old pool. Ye shall not yet look upon him that doeth these things, neither shall ye look upon him that maketh them from afar. 12. Therefore shall the LORD of hosts call in that day to weep, and to mourn, and to be weighed down, and to put on sackcloth. 13. But now, behold, it is joy and gladness to kill oxen, and to slaughter sheep, and to eat flesh, and to drink wine, saying, Let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. 14. These things are manifest in the ears of the LORD of hosts. What matter if this iniquity be forgiven you until ye die? saith the LORD of hosts. 15. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Go in unto Sebna the treasurer, the keeper of the horses, and say unto him: 16. What hast thou here? to whom dost thou belong, to hew thee a grave here, as he that heweth his grave on high, and as he that maketh his dwelling in the rock? 17. Behold, the LORD shall cast thee away, as a strong man casteth one away, and shall shut thee up, 18. And he shall compass thee about as an orb upon a far country: there shalt thou die, there shall thy precious chariots abide with reproach of the house of thy Lord. 19. And I will cast thee down from thy station, and from thy office will I set thee. 20. And in that day will I call unto my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, 21. And I will put thy robe upon him, and gird him with thy girdle, and put thy power into his hand; and he shall be the father of them that dwell at Jerusalem, and of the house of Judah. 22. And I will put the keys of the house of David upon his shoulder, that he may open, and that no man may shut, and that he may shut, and that no man may open. 23. And he shall put it for a nail in a strong place, and shall have the throne of honour in his father's house, 24. That all the glory of his father's house should be hanged upon him; his children, and his children's children, and all the little vessels, and the drinking vessels, and all manner of stringed instruments. 25. In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, the nail that is in the strong place shall be taken away, that it may break, and fall, and that the burden thereof may perish. For the LORD saith. (Isaiah) Chapter 23 Destruction and rebuilding of Tyre. 1. This is the burden of Tyre: Hie ye down, ye ships of the sea: for it is destroyed; there is no house, neither doth any man go thither. They shall know it out of the land of Chittim. 2. The inhabitants of the isles have become quiet. The merchants of Zidon, which passed through the sea, filled thee. 3. And the fruit that grew by Sihor, and the corn that grew by the waters, were brought in unto her by great waters: and thou wast the market of the heathen. 4. Thou shalt be afraid, O Zidon. For the sea, even the firmament of the sea, saith, I am no more with child, I bear no more: so I raise no young men, neither bring up virgins. 5. As men were afraid when they heard of Egypt, so shall they be afraid when they hear of Tyre. 6. Go ye to the sea; howl, ye inhabitants of the isles. 7. Is this your joyful city, which boasted of her age? Her feet shall lead her afar off to wander. 8. Who would have thought that it should be so with Tyre the crown, when her merchants are princes, and her merchants the chiefest in the land? 9. Thus hath the LORD of hosts purposed, that he might diminish all the glory of the goodly city, and bring into contempt all the glories of the land. 10. Pass through thy land like a river, thou daughter of the sea: there is no more girdle. 11. He stretcheth out his hand over the sea, and terrifieth the kingdoms. The LORD hath commanded Canaan to destroy her mighty ones, 12. And saith, Thou shalt not rejoice any more, thou violated virgin, thou daughter of Zidon. O Chittim, arise, and depart: for thou shalt not abide there, 13. But in the land of the Chaldeans, which was not a nation, but Assyria hath prepared it for ships, and have set up strong towers within, and built palaces. But it is set to be pulled down. 14. Hail, ye ships of the sea: for your power is destroyed. 15. In that day shall Tyre be forgotten seventy years, as long as a king may live. But after seventy years they will sing of Tyre a harlot's song: 16. Take the harp, go about in the city, thou forgotten harlot: play well upon the strings, and sing with confidence, that thou mayest be remembered. 17. For after threescore and ten years the LORD will visit Tyre, and she shall return to the wages of her harlotry, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the earth. 18. But their merchandise and their wages shall be holy unto the LORD. They shall not be treasured, neither shall they be hid: but they that dwell before the LORD shall have their merchandise, that they may eat, and be full, and be well clothed. (Isaiah) Chapter 24 Devastation of the Jewish land. 1. Behold, the LORD maketh the land empty and desolate, and overthroweth that which is therein, and scattereth the inhabitants thereof. 2. And go ye to the priest as well as to the people, to the lord as well as to the servant, to the woman as well as to the maid, to the seller as well as to the buyer, to the borrower as well as to the borrower, to the admonisher as well as to the debtor. 3. For the land shall be empty and despoiled: for the LORD hath spoken these things. 4. The land is desolate and corrupt, the ground is wasted and corrupt; the chief of the people of the land are wasted. 5. The land is polluted of her inhabitants: for they have transgressed the law, and changed the commandments, and forsaken the everlasting covenant. 6. Therefore the curse devoureth the land: for they that dwell therein are in debt. Therefore the inhabitants of the land wither, and few remain. 7. The must is gone, the vine languisheth, and all that were glad of heart groan. 8. The joy of the timbrel celebrates, the rejoicing of the joyful is ended, and the joy of the harps is ended. 9. Sing not while drinking wine: and good drink is bitter to them that drink it. 10. The empty city is broken up; all the houses are shut up, that no man may enter in. 11. They lament wine in the streets, that all joy is gone, all the delight of the land is gone. 12. Vain desolation is left in the city, and the gates stand desolate. 13. For there is a prayer in the land and among the people, as when an olive tree is plucked up, as when the vintage is over. 14. These lift up their voice, and shout, and shout from the sea, for the glory of the LORD: 15. Now therefore praise ye the LORD in the foundations, in the isles of the sea, the name of the LORD God of Israel. 16. We hear songs of praise from the end of the earth in honor of the righteous. And I must say: How thin I am! How thin I am! Woe is me; for the despisers despise, even the despisers despise. 17. Therefore terror, pit, and stroke, come upon you, ye inhabitants of the land. 18. Though a man escape from the cry of the terror, yet shall he fall into the pit; though he come out of the pit, yet shall he be taken in a snare. For the windows of the high places are opened, and the foundations of the earth are shaken. 19. The land shall be evil, and shall not prosper, and shall fall away. 20. The land shall stagger like a drunken man, and be carried away like a hovel: for her iniquity oppresseth her, that she must fall, and cannot stand. 21. In that day shall the LORD visit the high knights that are in high places, and the kings of the earth that are on the earth, 22. That they should be gathered into a bundle to the pit, and be shut up in the dungeon, and after a long time be visited again. 23. And the moon shall be ashamed, and the sun shall be ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall be king in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients in glory. Chapter 25 Thanksgiving for the procreation of Christ's kingdom. 1. O LORD, thou art my God: I praise thee. I praise thy name, for thou doest wonders. Thy precepts of old are faithful and true. 2. For thou hast made the city a heap of stones, the strong city to lie in a heap, the palace of the strangers, that there shall be no more city, neither shall there be any more building. 3. Therefore a mighty nation honoureth thee: the cities of mighty nations fear thee. 4. For thou art the strength of the lowly, the strength of the poor in affliction, a fine refuge from the tempest, a shade from the heat when tyrants rage, as a tempest against a wall. 5. Thou hast humbled the stranger's fierceness, as the heat in a dry place; that the heat may destroy the vine of the tyrant, and the cloud may give shade. 6. And the LORD of hosts shall make all nations a fat banquet in this mountain, a banquet of pure wine, of fat, of marrow, of wine, wherein is no yeast. 7. And he shall put away the covering upon this mountain, that all nations may be covered; and the covering, that all the heathen may be covered. 8. For he shall swallow up death for ever. And the LORD GOD shall wipe away the tears from off all faces, and shall lift up the reproach of his people throughout all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. 9. In that day it shall be said, Behold, this is our God, in whom we wait, and he shall save us: this is the LORD, in whom we wait, that we may rejoice and be glad in his salvation. 10. For the hand of the LORD is upon this mountain Moab: but it shall be broken down under it, as straw is broken down, and as dung. 11. And he shall spread out his hands in the midst of them, as a swimmer spreadeth them out to swim; and shall make their glory low with the arms of his hands. 12. And bend the high fortress of your walls low, and cast it into the dust to the ground. (Isaiah) Chapter 26 Encouraging the church to trust God in tribulation. 1. In that day shall they sing such a song in the land of Judah, saying, We have a strong city; the wall and the defence are salvation. 2. Open the gates, that the righteous people which keep the faith may enter in. 3. Thou shalt always have peace according to a certain promise: for they trust in thee. 4. Therefore rely upon the LORD for ever: for the LORD God is a rock for ever. 5. And he boweth down them that dwell on high; he bringeth low the high city; yea, he thrusteth it to the earth, and it lieth in the dust, 6. That it may be trodden under foot, even with the feet of the poor, with the heels of the lowly. 7. But the way of the righteous is evil: the path of the righteous thou makest right. 8. For we wait for thee, O LORD, in the way of thy right hand: the desire of the heart is for thy name and for thy memorial. 9. With my heart I desire thee at night; And with my spirit within me I awake unto thee early. For where thy justice is done in the land, The inhabitants of the earth learn righteousness. 10. But though grace be offered unto the wicked, yet learn they not righteousness, but do evil in the right land: for they see not the glory of the LORD. 11. O LORD, thine hand is lifted up; they see it not: but when they shall see it, they shall be confounded in zeal against the heathen: thou wilt also burn them with fire, that thou mayest consume thine enemies. 12. But unto us, O LORD, thou wilt make peace: for all that we do thou hast given us. 13. O LORD our God, there are other lords over us besides thee: but we remember thee and thy name only. 14. The dead shall not live, neither shall they rise: for thou hast visited them, and destroyed them, and brought to nought all their remembrance. 15. But thou, O LORD, goest on among the heathen, thou goest on among the heathen, thou showest thy glory, and comest afar off unto the end of the world. 16. O LORD, when tribulation cometh, they seek thee: when thou chastenest them, they cry out with fear. 17. As a woman with child, when she is about to be delivered, is afraid, and crieth out in her pains: so is it with us, O Lord, before thy face. 18. And we are with child, and are afraid that we shall not draw breath; neither can we help the land, neither will the inhabitants of the earth fall. 19. But thy dead shall live, and rise with the body. Awake, and glorify them that lie under the earth: for thy dew is the dew of the green field. But the land of the dead shalt thou overthrow. 20. Go thy way, O my people, into thy chamber, and shut thy door upon thee; hide thyself for a moment from me, until the wrath be past. 21. For, behold, the LORD shall go forth out of his place to visit the wickedness of the inhabitants of the land upon them, and the land shall reveal their blood, and shall not hide them that are slain within. (Isaiah) Chapter 27 God's judgment on all desolators of the spiritual vineyard. 1. In that day shall the LORD visit both Leviathan, which is an evil serpent, and Leviathan, which is a crooked serpent, with his fierce and great and strong sword, and shall slay the dragons in the sea. 2. In that day shall they sing of the vineyard of the best wine: 3. I the LORD will keep him, and will make him wet quickly, that his leaves be not wanting: I will keep him day and night. 4. God is not angry with me. Oh that I would have the hedges and the ladies! So I would tear among them, and set them in a heap. 5. He shall keep me in my strength, and shall make me at peace: peace shall he make me nevertheless. 6. Nevertheless it shall come to pass, that Jacob shall take root, and Israel shall flourish and be green, that they may fill the earth with fruit. 7. Yet shall he not be smitten, as his enemies smite him; neither shall he be slain, as his enemies slay him, 8. But with moderation thou judgest them, and loosest them, when thou hast afflicted them with thy rude wind, even with the east wind. 9. Therefore the sin of Jacob shall cease thereby: and this is the profit of it, that his sins be taken away, in that he maketh all the stones of the altar as stones broken to powder, that there remain no groves nor images. 10. For the strong city shall be desolate, and the goodly houses shall be cast down, and forsaken, as a wilderness: there shall calves feed, and there shall they rest, and there shall they be eaten up. 11. Their branches shall break with drought; and the women shall come and make fire therewith. For they are an unwise people: therefore he that made them shall not have mercy upon them, neither shall he that made them have compassion upon them. 12. In that day shall the LORD roll from the bank of the river unto the brook of Egypt: and ye children of Israel shall be gathered one by one. 13. And it shall come to pass in that day, that they shall blow with a great trumpet, that the lost of the land of Assyria, and the outcasts of the land of Egypt, shall come and worship the LORD in the holy mount at Jerusalem. (Isaiah) Chapter 28 Burden of the kingdom of Israel and Judah. 1. Woe to the glorious crown of the drunkards of Ephraim, to the withered flower of their lovely glory, which stands above a fat valley of those who stagger with wine! 2. Behold, a strong and mighty one from the LORD, like a hailstorm, like an evil weather, like a tempest of waters, which break in mightily, is let into the land with violence, 3. That the glorious crown of the drunken of Ephraim might be trodden under foot. 4. And the withered flower of her lovely glory, which is above a fat valley, shall be like the ripening before summer, which perisheth when it is yet clinging to his branch. 5. In that day shall the LORD of hosts be a crown of beauty and a garland of glory unto the remnant of his people. 6. And a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and strength to them that return from the battle unto the gate. 7. These also are mad with wine, and reel with strong drink. For both priests and prophets are mad with strong drink, and are drowned in wine, and reel with strong drink: they are mad in prophesying, and lick out judgments. 8. For all tables are full of spittle and filth in every place. 9. Whom then shall he teach knowledge? To whom shall he give understanding of the sermon? To them that are weaned from milk; to them that are weaned from breasts. 10. For (they say), Give hither, give hither; give hither, give hither; wait here, wait there; wait here, wait there; here a little, there a little. 11. Well, he shall speak with a different tongue and with a different mouth unto this people, to whom these things are preached: 12. Thus is there rest, thus is there rest for the weary, thus is there quietness; and yet they will not hear such preaching. 13. Therefore the word of the LORD shall be even so unto them: Give ye here, give ye here; give ye here, give ye here; wait here, wait there; wait here, wait there; here a little, there a little; that they may go, and fall back, and be broken, and snared, and taken. 14. Hear therefore the word of the LORD, ye scoffers that rule over this people which is at Jerusalem. 15. For ye say, We have made a covenant with death, and a covenant with hell: if a flood come, it shall not overtake us: for we have made falsehood our refuge, and hypocrisy our shield. 16. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I lay in Zion a foundation, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, well established. He that believeth shall not flinch. 17. And I will make judgment the guide, and righteousness the weight: and the hail shall drive away the false refuge, and waters shall wash away the screen, 18. That your covenant with death may be loosed, and your understanding with hell be not established: and when a flood cometh, it shall tread you down; and when it cometh, it shall take you away. 19. If it come in the morning, it is in the morning: so also if it come in the day, or if it come in the night. For the temptation alone teacheth to mark the word. 20. For the bed is so narrow that there is nothing left, and the cover so short that one must nestle in it. 21. For the LORD will arise as in mount Prazim, and will be angry as in the valley of Gibeon, to do his work in another way, and to do his work in another manner. 22. Now therefore cease your mocking, lest your bonds be hardened: for I have heard a destruction and a taxation, which shall come upon all the earth from the LORD of hosts. 23. Give ear, and hear my voice: give ear, and hear my words. 24. Doth a husbandman also plow, or till, or work his field for seed continually? 25. Is it not so? And when he hath made it even, he shall scatter vetches, and cast caraway, and sow wheat and barley, every one where he will, and spelt in his place. 26. So also their God chasteneth them with judgment, and teacheth them. 27. For the vetches are not threshed with a threshing cart, neither is the cart wheel made to go over the caraway: but the vetches are beaten with a rod, and the caraway with a stick. 28. They grind it to make it bread, and do not crush it, when they thresh it with the wheels of chariots and with horses. 29. This also is done of the LORD of hosts: for his counsel is wonderful, and he bringeth it forth gloriously. (Isaiah) Chapter 29 Jerusalem is to be destroyed, the Jews blinded, the Gentiles converted. 1. Woe unto Ariel, Ariel, thou city of the camp of David! Ye keep seasons, and celebrate feasts. 2. But I will afflict Ariel, that he may be sad and wretched; and he shall be a true Ariel unto me. 3. For I will besiege thee round about, and will make thee afraid with a fortress, and will set up ramparts round about thee. 4. Then shalt thou be humbled, and shalt speak out of the earth, and shalt murmur with thy speech out of the dust: thy voice shall be as the voice of a sorcerer out of the earth, and thy speech shall whisper out of the dust. 5. And the multitude that scatter thee shall be as a thin dust, and the multitude of tyrants as a waving chaff: and it shall come to pass suddenly soon. 6. For thou shalt be visited of the LORD of hosts with tempests, and with earthquakes, and with great thunderings, and with whirlwinds, and with tempests, and with flames of devouring fire. 7. But as a night vision in a dream, so shall be the multitude of all the heathen that fight against Ariel, with all their armies and their fortresses, and that fear him. 8. For as a hungry man dreameth that he eateth, but when he awaketh his soul is still empty: and as a thirsty man dreameth that he drinketh, but when he awaketh he is faint and thirsty: so shall be the multitude of all the Gentiles that fight against mount Zion. 9. Be stiffnecked, and be dismayed; be blinded, and be drunken, but not with wine; be staggered, but not with strong drink. 10. For the LORD hath given you a spirit of hard sleep, and hath closed your eyes; he hath blinded your prophets, and your princes, and your seers, 11. And the visions of all the prophets shall be unto you as the words of a sealed book, which, if it were given to one that can read, saith, Read this; and he saith, I cannot, because it is sealed, 12. Or as if it were given to him that cannot read, saying, Read this; and he saith, I cannot read. 13. And the LORD saith, Because this people draw near unto me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but their heart is far from me, and they fear me according to the commandment of men, which they teach, 14. I will also deal strangely with this people, most strangely and oddly, that the wisdom of their wise men may perish, and the understanding of their prudent men be blinded. 15. Woe unto them that desire to be hid from the LORD, that hide their ways, and their doings, and keep them in darkness, and say: Who seeth us, and who knoweth us? 16. How wickedly are ye! As if a potter's clay were remembered, and a work were said of its master, He hath not made me; and a vessel were said of its potter, He knoweth me not. 17. Now therefore, there is yet a little to be done, and Lebanon shall be a field, and the field shall be reckoned a forest. 18. For in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of darkness and gloom, 19. And the miserable shall have joy again in the LORD, and the poor of men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel, 20. When the tyrants shall be ended, and the scoffers shall be finished, and all they that watch to do mischief shall be destroyed, 21. Who make men to sin by preaching, and go after him that punisheth them in the gate, departing from the righteous by lying. 22. Therefore thus saith the LORD that redeemed Abraham unto the house of Jacob; Jacob shall be put to shame no more, neither shall his face be ashamed any more. 23. For when they shall see their children, the works of my hands among them, they shall hallow my name, and shall sanctify the Holy One in Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel. 24. For they that have an erroneous spirit shall receive understanding, and the talkers shall be taught. (Isaiah) Chapter 30 In God, 'and not in creatures, shall one put his trust. 1. Woe unto the apostate children, saith the LORD, which counsel without me, and seek refuge without my Spirit, to heap sin upon sin, 2. Who go down into Egypt, and ask not my mouth, that they may strengthen themselves with the power of Pharaoh, and shelter themselves under the shadow of Egypt. 3. For the strength of Pharaoh shall be a reproach unto you, and the shelter under the shadow of Egypt a mockery. 4. Their princes have been in Zoan, and their message is come to Hanesh, 5. But they shall all be ashamed of the people, which shall not be able to profit them, neither to help them, nor to profit them, but only to shame and to mock them. 6. This is the burden of the beasts that go toward the south, where there are lions, and lionesses, and vipers, and fiery flying dragons, in the land of affliction and anguish: they carry their goods upon the backs of the colts, and their treasures upon the humps of the camels, unto the people, which cannot profit them. 7. For Egypt is nothing, and her help is vain. Therefore thus preach I: Rahab shall sit quietly by. 8. Go therefore, write it before them upon a tablet, and write it in a book, that it may stand for ever. 9. For they are a rebellious people, and lying children, which will not hear the law of the LORD, 10. But say unto the seers: Ye shall not see! and to the showers: Ye shall not see us the right doctrine: but preach unto us gently, behold us deceit! 11. Depart from the way, make yourselves of the way; let the holy one in Israel cease from us. 12. Therefore thus saith the Holy One in Israel, Because ye reject this word, and rely upon iniquity and wickedness, and defy it, 13. Then shall such iniquity be unto you as a breach in a high wall, when it begineth to trickle, which suddenly falleth and is broken down, 14. As when a pot is broken, which is broken, and not spared; so that there is not found of the pieces thereof a fragment to make fire out of the hearth, or to draw water out of a well. 15. For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; If ye be quiet, ye shall be saved: by quietness and hope ye shall be strong. But ye will not 16. And say, Nay; but on horses will we flee (therefore ye shall be fugitives> and on runners will we ride (therefore your pursuers will overtake you). 17. For a thousand of you shall flee from the rebuke of a few, yea, from five ye shall all flee: until ye be left as a pole upon a mountain, and as a banner upon a hill. 18. Therefore wait ye on the LORD, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: good to all them that wait on him. 19. For the people of Zion shall dwell at Jerusalem: thou shalt not weep: he will be gracious unto thee when thou shalt call; he will answer thee when he heareth. 20. And the LORD will give you bread in tribulation, and water in anguish: for he will not suffer thy teacher to depart, but thine eyes shall see thy teacher, 21. And thine ears shall hear the word spoken behind thee, saying thus, This is the way that ye go: otherwise not to the right hand, nor to the left. 22. And ye shall profane your silvered idols, and the precious garments of your images, and shall cast them away as filth, and shall say unto them, Get thee out. 23. And he shall give rain unto thy seed, which thou hast sown in the field, and bread of the revenue of the field, and full sufficiency thereof. And thy cattle shall feed in that day in a wide pasture. 24. The oxen and the bullocks that till the field shall eat mingled fodder, which is winnowed with the shovel and the tub. 25. And upon all the great mountains, and upon all the great hills, shall be divided rivers of water in the time of the great battle, when the towers shall fall. 26. And the light of the moon shall be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun shall be seven times brighter than now, in the days when the LORD shall bind up the hurt of his people, and heal their wounds. 27. Behold, the name of the LORD cometh afar off; his wrath burneth, and is very fierce; his lips are full of fury, and his tongue is as a consuming fire. 28. And his breath shall be as a flood of waters reaching unto the neck, to scatter the heathen, until they be destroyed, and to drive the nations to and fro with a bridle in their beacons. 29. Then shall ye sing as at the night of a holy feast, and rejoice with all your heart, as when one goeth with a pipe unto the mountain of the LORD, the stronghold of Israel. 30. And the LORD shall sound with his glorious voice, and his outstretched arm shall be seen with wrathful anger, and with flames of devouring fire, and with rays, and with heavy rain, and with hail. 31. For Assyria shall be afraid at the voice of the LORD, which smiteth him with the rod. 32. For the rod shall pierce all the way, and shall smite when the LORD bringeth it upon him with timbrels and harps, and shall fight against them in every place. 33. For the pit is prepared from yesterday; yea, the same is prepared for the king, deep and wide enough: so is the tabernacle within, fire and wood the multitude: the breath of the LORD shall kindle it as a river of brimstone. (Isaiah) Chapter 31 Void help of the Egyptians. Divine victory against the Assyrians. 1. Woe unto them that go down into Egypt for help, and trust in horses, and hope in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; and hold not themselves to the holy one in Israel, and enquire not after the LORD. 2. But he is wise, and bringeth evil, and turneth not his words: but he will arise against the house of the wicked, and against the help of evildoers. 3. For Egypt is man, and not God; and their horses are flesh, and not spirit. And the LORD shall stretch out his hand, and the helper shall be punished, and he that is helped shall fall, and all shall perish together. 4. For thus saith the LORD unto me, As a lion, and a young lion, roareth for his prey, when the multitude of the shepherds cry unto him; he is not afraid at their cry, neither is he sorry for their multitude: so shall the LORD of hosts come down to fight in mount Zion, and in the hill thereof. 5. And the LORD of hosts shall shield Jerusalem, as the birds do with their wings, and shall preserve, and shall save, and shall compass it about, and shall help it. 6. Return, ye children of Israel, which are greatly departed. 7. For in that day shall every man cast away his idols of silver and of gold, which your hands have made unto you to sin. 8. And Assyria shall fall, not by man's sword, and shall be consumed, not by man's sword: yet shall she flee from the sword, and her young men shall be made to pay interest; 9. And her rock shall depart for fear, and her princes shall give flight before the panoply, saith the LORD, which hath fire in Zion, and hearth in Jerusalem. (Isaiah) Chapter 32 Constant bliss of Christ's kingdom. 1. Behold, a king shall reign to do justice, and princes shall reign to execute judgment, 2. That every man shall be as one kept from the wind, and as one hid from the downpour, as the brooks of water in the dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in the dry land. 3. And the eyes of them that see shall not be blinded, and the ears of them that hear shall give heed, 4. And the unwary shall learn prudence, and the stammering tongue shall speak ready and clean. 5. No more shall a fool be called a prince, nor a covetous man be called a lord. 6. For a fool speaketh folly, and his heart dealeth wickedly, to make hypocrisy, and to preach error of the LORD, that he may starve the hungry soul, and prevent the thirsty from drinking. 7. For the government of the covetous is vile: for he deviseth deceit to destroy the wretched with false words, when he shall speak justice to the poor. 8. But the princes shall have princely thoughts, and shall think upon it. 9. Arise, ye proud women, hear my voice; ye daughters that are so sure, give ear to my speech. 10. It is uni year and day to do, so ye that are sure shall tremble: for there shall be no vintage, so shall there be no reading. 11. Be afraid, ye proud women; tremble, ye secure ones. There is undressing, and girding, and girding about the loins. 12. They shall mourn for the fields, even for the pleasant fields, for the fruitful vines. 13. For thorns and hedges shall grow in the field of my people, and over all the houses of mirth in the merry city. 14. For the palaces shall be desolate, and the multitude in the city shall be desolate; and the towers and the fortresses shall become everlasting dens, and a delight to the game, and a pasture to the flocks, 15. Until the Spirit be poured out upon us from on high. So then the wilderness will become a field, and the field will be counted as a forest. 16. And justice shall dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness in the field. 17. And the fruit of righteousness shall be peace; and the profit of righteousness shall be everlasting quietness and safety, 18. That my people shall dwell in houses of peace, in dwellings of safety, and in proud rest. 19. But there shall be hail in the forest, and the city thereof shall be low. 20. Blessed are ye that sow by the rivers, that ye may let the feet of oxen and asses go thereon. (Isaiah) Chapter 33 The Assyrians are to be driven out, Jerusalem and the church protected. 1. But woe unto thee, thou destroyer! Thinkest thou that thou shalt not be destroyed? And thou despiser, thinkest thou that thou shalt not be despised? When thou hast made an end of disturbing, thou shalt be destroyed: and when thou hast made an end of despising, thou shalt be despised again. 2. O Lord, have mercy upon us, for we wait for thee: let their arm be early, and our salvation in the time of trouble. 3. Let the nations flee from the great tumult, and let the heathen be scattered, when thou art lifted up. 4. Then shall ye be taken up as a prey, as the locusts are taken up, and as the beetles are scattered when they are attacked. 5. The LORD is exalted, because he dwelleth on high. He hath made Zion full of judgment and righteousness. 6. And in thy days shall faith be, and dominion, and salvation, and wisdom, and prudence, and the fear of the LORD, shall be his treasure. 7. Behold, their messengers cry without, the angels of peace weep bitterly (saying): 8. The highways are desolate; no man walketh in the streets. He hath neither faith nor allegiance; he hath rejected the cities, he hath not regarded the people. 9. The land lieth miserable and desolate, Lebanon standeth shamefully hewn down, and Saron is as a field, and Bashan and Carmel are desolate. 10. Now will I arise, saith the LORD, now will I rise up, now will I come up. 11. With straw ye conceive, and with stubble ye give birth: fire shall consume you with your courage. 12. For the nations shall be burned with lime, as cut thorns are burned with fire. 13. Hear ye therefore, ye that are afar off, what I have done: and ye that are nigh, mark my strength. 14. The sinners of Zion are afraid, trembling is come upon the hypocrites, saying, Who is there among us that shall dwell by a consuming fire? Who is among us that shall dwell by the everlasting fire? 15. He that walketh in righteousness, and speaketh that which is right; he that hateth iniquity with covetousness, and shaketh his hands that he take not gifts; he that stoppeth his ears that he hear not the sin of blood, and stoppeth his eyes that he see not evil, 16. He shall dwell on high, and the rocks shall be his stronghold and his refuge. His bread shall be given him, and his water shall be sure. 17. Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty, thou shalt see the land enlarged, 18. That thine heart shall wonder greatly, saying, Where then are the scribes? Where are the counsellors? Where are the chancellors? 19. For this thou shalt not see the strong people, the people of low speech, which cannot be heard, and of an uncertain tongue, which cannot be understood. 20. Look, O Zion, the city of our tabernacle. Thine eyes shall see Jerusalem, a sure habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be removed; whose nails shall never be pulled out, neither shall any of her cords be broken. 21. For the LORD shall be mighty there with us, and there shall be broad channels, that no ship with oars shall pass over them, neither shall any galley go over them. 22. For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our master, the LORD is our king, he helpeth us. 23. Let them stretch out their cords, and they shall not hold: so shall they not set out the ensign upon the mast. Then shall many precious spoils be given out, that even the lame shall spoil. 24. And no inhabitant shall say, I am weak. For the people that dwell therein shall have forgiveness of sins. (Isaiah) Chapter 34 God's wrath and judgment against all enemies of the church. 1. Come near, ye nations, and hear, ye peoples, give ear; let the earth hear, and the things that are therein, the world and its plants. 2. For the LORD is wroth with all the heathen, and fierce with all their armies: he will utterly destroy them, and deliver them to the slaughter. 3. And their slain shall be cast down, and the stench shall rise from their dead bodies, and the mountains shall flow with their blood. 4. And all the host of heaven shall wither away, and heaven shall be wrapped up like a letter, and all his host shall wither away, as a leaf withereth on the vine, and as a dry leaf on the fig tree; 5. For my sword is drunken in heaven: and, behold, it shall come down upon Edom, and upon the exiled people for judgment. 6. The sword of the LORD is full of blood, and thick with fatness, with the blood of lambs and goats, and with the fatness of the kidneys of rams: for the LORD hath a slaughter in Bozrah, and a great strangulation in the land of Edom. 7. And the unicorns shall come down with them, and the bullocks with the fatted oxen. For their land shall be drunken with blood, and their earth shall be fat with fatness. 8. For it is the day of the LORD'S vengeance, and the year of vengeance, to avenge Zion. 9. Then shall their rivers become as pitch, and their earth as brimstone; yea, their land shall become burning pitch, 10. Which shall not be quenched day nor night, but smoke shall go up from it for ever: and it shall be desolate for ever, and none shall pass through it for ever, 11. But bitterns and hedgehogs shall dwell there; night owls and ravens shall dwell there. For he shall draw a measuring line over it, that it may be desolate; and a plumb line, that it may be desolate, 12. That their lords should be called lords without a country, and that all their princes should come to an end. 13. And thorns shall grow in their palaces, and nettles and thistles in their castles: and there shall be a dwelling place for dragons, and pasture for ostriches. 14. And the marten and the vulture shall run among them, and the devil of the field shall meet with another; and the hobgoblin shall lodge there, and find his rest there. 15. The hedgehog also shall nest there, and lay, and brood, and devise, under her shadow; and the harriers shall come together there. 16. Search ye therefore in the book of the LORD, and read. There shall be no lack of any of these: neither shall this be missed, nor that. For it is he that speaketh by my mouth, and it is his Spirit that gathereth it together. 17. He giveth lot upon them, and his hand divideth the measure among them, that they may inherit therein for ever, and that they may abide therein for ever. (Isaiah) Chapter 35 Blissful state of the New Testament church. 1. But the wilderness and the desert shall be merry, and the field shall stand glad, and shall blossom as the lilies. 2. She shall flourish, and stand joyful in all her delight. For the glory of Lebanon is given unto her, the ornament of Carmel and Saron. They see the glory of the LORD, the ornament of our God. 3. Strengthen the weary hands, and give rest to the stumbling knees. 4. Say unto the desponding hearts, Be of good cheer, fear not. Behold, your God, He comes to avenge you; God, Who repays, comes and will help you. 5. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. 6. Then shall the lame make a sound like a hart, and the tongue of the dumb shall speak praise. For waters shall flow in the wilderness, and rivers in the fields. 7. And where it was dry before, there shall be pools: and where it was dry, there shall be fountains. And where serpents have lain before, there shall be hay, and reeds, and canes. 8. And there shall be there a highway and a way, which shall be called the holy way, that no unclean person shall walk therein: and it shall be for them to walk therein, that even fools may not err. 9. There shall no lion be there, neither shall any beast of prey tread thereon, nor be found there: but one shall walk there in safety. 10. The redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come unto Zion with shouting: everlasting joy shall be upon their head; joy and gladness shall take hold upon them; and sorrow and sighing shall be taken away. (Isaiah) Chapter 36 Jerusalem besieged by Sanherib. 1. And it came to pass in the fourteenth year of king Hezekiah, that Sanherib king of Assyria went up against all the strong cities of Judah, and took them. 2. And the king of Assyria sent Rabshakeh of Lachish unto Jerusalem unto king Hezekiah with great power. And he stood by the waters of the upper pool by the way of the dyer's field. 3. And there came out unto him Eliakim the son of Hilkiah the chamberlain, and Sebena the chancellor, and Joah the son of Asaph the scribe. 4. And the archbishop said unto them, Say ye unto Hezekiah, Thus saith the great king, the king of Assyria: What defiance is this, in which thou trustest? 5. I suppose thou wilt be persuaded, that thou wilt yet know counsel and might to fight. In whom then wilt thou trust, that thou hast been displeasing to me? 6. Dost thou trust in the broken reed of Egypt, which, if any man lean upon it, it entereth into his hand, and pierceth it? Thus doeth Pharaoh king of Egypt unto all them that rely upon him. 7. But wilt thou say unto me, We trust in the LORD our God? Is not this he, whose high places and altars Hezekiah hath abolished, and hath said unto Judah and Jerusalem, Before this altar shall ye worship? 8. Now therefore, I pray thee, take it up with my lord the king of Assyria. I will give thee two thousand horses, and let thee see if thou canst raise up them that ride thereon. 9. How then wilt thou abide before a captain, the least of the servants of one my lord? And thou trustedst in Egypt for chariots and horsemen. 10. And thou thinkest that I went up into this land without the LORD, to destroy it? Yea, the LORD said unto me, Go up into this land, and destroy it. 11. And Eliakim, and Sebena, and Joah, said unto the prince, Speak unto thy servants in Syrian, for we understand it: speak not unto us in the Jews' language in the ears of the people that are upon the wall. 12. Then said the archbishop, Thinkest thou that my lord hath sent me unto thy lord, or unto thee, to speak such words, and not rather unto the men that sit upon the wall, to eat their own dung with you, and to drink their own urine? 13. And the archbishop stood, and cried with a loud voice in the Jews, saying, Hear the words of the great king, the king of Assyria. 14. Thus saith the king, Let not Hezekiah deceive you: for he cannot deliver you. 15. And let not Hezekiah put you off unto the LORD, saying, The LORD will deliver us, and this city shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria. 16. Hearken not unto Hezekiah. For thus saith the king to Assyria: Give me thanks, and come out unto me; and ye shall eat every man of his vine, and of his fig tree, and drink of his well, 17. Till I come and take you into a land like your land, a land where corn and wine are within, a land where bread and vineyards are within. 18. Let not Hezekiah persuade you, saying, The LORD will deliver us. Have any of the gods of the heathen delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? 19. Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they also delivered Samaria out of my hand? 20. Which of all the gods of these countries hath delivered his land out of mine hand, that the LORD should deliver Jerusalem out of mine hand? 21. And they held their peace, and answered him nothing: for the king had commanded, saying, Answer him nothing. 22. And Eliakim the son of Hilkiah the chamberlain, and Sebena the chancellor, and Joah the son of Asaph the scribe, came with their clothes rent, and shewed him the words of the archbishop. (Isaiah) Chapter 37 Sanherib's power is beaten at Hezekiah's prayer. 1. And when Hezekiah the king heard it, he rent his clothes, and put sackcloth about him, and went into the house of the LORD. 2. And he sent Eliakim the chamberlain, and Shebena the chancellor, and the chief priests, with sackcloth about them, unto Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz, 3. And they said unto him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This is a day of affliction, and of reproach, and of blasphemy; and it is as though the children were come to the birth, and there were no strength to bring forth. 4. That the LORD thy God would hear the words of the archbishop, whom his lord the king of Assyria hath sent to blaspheme the living God, and to reproach him with such words as the LORD thy God hath heard. And lift up thy prayer for the remnant that are left. 5. And the servants of king Hezekiah came to Isaiah. 6. And Isaiah said unto them, Tell your Lord, Thus saith the LORD; Fear not the words which thou hast heard, wherewith the children of the king of Assyria have reproached me. 7. Behold, I will change his heart, and he shall hear, and return to his own land; and I will slay him with the sword in his own land. 8. And when the prince returned, he found the king of Assyria fighting against Libnah: for he had heard that he was come out of Lachish. 9. For there came a rumour from Thirhakah the king of the Moors, saying, He is gone out to fight against thee. 10. And when he heard these things, he sent messengers unto Hezekiah, saying, Tell Hezekiah king of Judah thus, Let not thy God deceive thee, in whom thou trustest, saying, Jerusalem shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria. 11. Behold, thou hast heard what the kings of Assyria have done unto all the countries, and hast banished them: and thou shalt be saved? 12. Have the gods of the heathen also saved the countries which my fathers destroyed, as Gozan, and Haran, and Rezeph, and the children of Eden of Thelassar? 13. Where is the king of Hamath, and the king of Arpad, and the king of the city of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Iwa? 14. And when Hezekiah had received the letter from the messengers, and had read it, he went up into the house of the LORD, and spread it out before the LORD. 15. And Hezekiah prayed unto the LORD, saying: 16. O LORD of hosts, thou God of Israel, which sittest over the cherubims, thou alone art God over all the kingdoms of the earth: thou hast made heaven and earth. 17. O LORD, incline thine ears, and hear. O LORD, open your eyes, and behold! Hear all the words of Sanherib, whom he has sent to revile the living God! 18. It is true, O LORD, that the kings of Assyria have made desolate all the kingdoms and their provinces. 19. And have cast their gods into the fire: for they were not gods, but the work of men's hands, wood and stone. They are slain. 20. But now, O LORD our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou art the LORD alone. 21. And Isaiah the son of Amoz sent unto Hezekiah, saying, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Because thou hast asked me of Sanherib king of Assyria, 22. This is what the LORD saith of him: The virgin daughter of Zion despiseth thee, and mocketh thee; and the daughter of Jerusalem shaketh her head at thee. 23. Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed? Against whom hast thou lifted up thy voice? and hast lifted up thine eyes against the Holy One of Israel. 24. By thy servants thou hast defiled the LORD, saying, I went up by the multitude of my chariots unto the height of the mountains that are by the sides of Lebanon, and have cut down the tall cedars thereof, and the choice fir trees thereof, and have come by the height unto the end of this forest of the country. 25. I have digged and drunk the waters, and have dried up with the soles of my feet all the waters that were stored up. 26. But hast thou not heard that I did so in time past, and did so of old, and do so now, that strong cities are destroyed into heaps of stones? 27. And the inhabitants thereof shall be weakened, and shall faint, and shall be ashamed, and shall become grass of the field, and green herbage, as hay upon the housetops, which doth dwell before it be ripe? 28. But I know thy dwelling, and thy going out, and thy coming in, and thy raging against me. 29. Because thou hast raged against me, and because thy pride is come up into mine ears, I will put a ring upon thy nose, and a bit in thy mouth, and will bring thee again by the way which thou camest. 30. And this shall be a sign unto thee: Eat this year that which is trodden down, and the next year that which groweth: in the third year sow, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruit thereof. 31. For they that are saved of the house of Judah, and they that remain, shall yet again take root among themselves, and bear fruit above themselves. 32. For out of Jerusalem shall go forth those that remain, and them that are saved out of mount Zion. The zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this. 33. Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria: He shall not enter into that city, neither shall he shoot an arrow thither, neither shall he put a shield before it, neither shall he heap a wall about it, 34. But by the way that he came he shall return, that he come not into this city, saith the LORD. 35. For I will defend this city, and will save it, for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake. 36. And the angel of the LORD came out, and smote in the camp of Assyria an hundred and fourscore thousand men. And when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead bodies. 37. And Sanherib king of Assyria departed, and went away, and returned again, and dwelt at Nineveh. 38. And it came to pass, as he worshipped in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adramelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword, and they fled into the land of Ararat. And Assar-haddon his son reigned in his stead. (Isaiah) Chapter 38 Hezekiah's fatal illness, recovery, and praise to God. 1. In those days Hezekiah was sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. 2. And Hezekiah turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD. 3. And said, Remember, O LORD, how I have walked before thee in truth with a perfect heart, and have done that which was right in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept greatly. 4. And the word of the LORD came unto Isaiah, saying: 5. Go and tell Hezekiah, Thus saith the LORD God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, and have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years. 6. And I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria: for I will defend this city. 7. And have this for a sign unto thee from the LORD, that the LORD will do these things which he hath spoken: 8. Behold, I will draw back the shadow of the pointer of the sun, Ahaz, ten lines over which it hath passed; and the sun shall draw back ten lines in the pointer over which it hath passed. 9. This is the writing of Hezekiah king of Judah, when he was sick, and was healed of the sickness: 10. And I said, Now must I go to the gates of hell, because my time was expired, when I thought to live longer. 11. And I said, Now have I no more to see the LORD, even the LORD in the land of the living; now have I no more to see men with them that live in their time. 12. My days are expired, and I am cleared away as a shepherd's hut; and my life is rent as a weaver. He maketh me dry. Thou hast made an end of me the day before evening: 13. I thought, Would that I might live till to-morrow! But he brake all my bones like a lion: for thou makest it up with me the day before evening. 14. I cried as a crane, and as a swallow, and as a dove: mine eyes would break: O Lord, I am in distress; soothe me. 15. O how will I speak that he hath promised me, and hath done it! All the days of my life I shall shrink from this affliction of my soul. 16. O Lord, by this I live, and the life of my spirit is even in this: for thou hast made me to sleep, and hast made me to live. 17. Behold, I was very afraid for comfort. But thou hast taken my soul in heart, that it be not consumed: for thou hast cast all my sin behind thee. 18. For hell doth not praise thee, neither doth death glorify thee; neither do they that go down to the pit wait for thy truth, 19. But only they that live praise thee, as I do now. The Father shall make thy truth known unto the children. 20. O Lord, help me, and we will sing my songs as long as we live in the house of the Lord. 21. And Isaiah was told to take a plaster of figs, and to put it upon his gland, that he might be healed. 22. And Hezekiah said, What a sign is this, that I should go up to the house of the LORD? (Isaiah) Chapter 39 Hiskia's ambition is punished. 1. At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and gifts unto Hezekiah: for he had heard that he was sick, and that he was strong again. 2. And Hezekiah rejoiced, and shewed them the treasury, and the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointments, and all his armoury, and all the treasure that he had. There was nothing that Hezekiah showed them not in his house, and in his dominion. 3. And Isaiah the prophet came to Hezekiah the king, and said unto him, What say these men, and whence come they unto thee? And Hezekiah said, They come unto me from afar, even from Babylon. 4. And he said, What have they seen in thine house? And Hezekiah said, All that is in mine house have they seen; and there is nothing that I have not shewed them in my treasures. 5. And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD of hosts. 6. Behold, the days come, that all that is in thine house, and that which thy fathers have gathered unto this day, shall be brought unto Babylon, that nothing shall remain, saith the LORD. 7. And they shall take thy children, which shall come of thee, and thou shalt beget, and they shall be chamberlains in the court of the king of Babylon. 8. And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah: The word of the LORD is good that thou sayest. And said, Let it only be peace and faithfulness, because I live. (Isaiah) Chapter 40 Future of Christ. His forerunner's sermon. (Epistle on the day of John the Baptist.) 1. Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. 2. Speak kindly unto Jerusalem, and preach unto her, that her reign is ended; for her iniquity is forgiven: for she hath received double from the hand of the LORD for all her sin. 3. It is the voice of a preacher in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make ye a level path in the land for our God. 4. All valleys shall be exalted, and all mountains and hills shall be made low; and that which is unequal shall be made level, and that which is crooked shall be made plain. 5. For the glory of the LORD shall be revealed; and all flesh together shall see that the mouth of the LORD speaketh]. 6. And a voice saith, Preach. And he said, What shall I preach? All flesh is hay, and all his goodness is as a flower of the field. 7. The hay withereth, the flower fadeth: for the Spirit of the LORD bloweth in it. Yea, the people are the hay. 8. The hay withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God endureth for ever. 9. Zion, thou preacher, arise upon a high mountain. Jerusalem, thou preacher, lift up thy voice with power, lift up and fear not; say to the cities of Judah, Behold, there is your God! 10. For, behold, the Lord GOD cometh mightily; and his arm shall reign. Behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense is before him. 11. He shall feed his flock as a shepherd; he shall gather the lambs into his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and lead the mothers of the sheep. 12. Who hath measured the waters with a fist, and hath compassed the heavens with a span, and comprehended the earth with a dreiling, and weighed the mountains with a weight, and the hills with a balance? 13. Who instructeth the spirit of the LORD, and what counsellor instructeth him? 14. Whom shall he ask counsel of, that may give him understanding, and teach him the way of judgment, and teach him knowledge, and instruct him in the way of understanding? 15. Behold, the heathen are esteemed as a drop that remaineth in the bucket, and as a mite that remaineth in the balance. Behold, the isles are as the small sticks. 16. Lebanon was too small for fire, and his beasts too small for burnt offering. 17. All the heathen are nothing before him, and are esteemed as vain and empty. 18. Whom then will ye liken God unto, or what likeness will ye make unto him? 19. The master maketh an image, and the goldsmith gildeth it, and maketh silver chains thereunto. 20. Likewise he that is able to make a poor heave, let him choose a wood that rotteth not, and let him seek a wise master to make an image that will stand the test of time. 21. Know ye not? Hear ye not? Is it not declared unto you before? Have ye not understood it from the foundation of the earth? 22. He sitteth upon the circle of the earth; and they that dwell therein are as locusts. Who stretcheth out the heavens like a thin skin, and spreadeth them out like a tabernacle to dwell in; 23. Which destroyeth princes, and maketh vain the judges of the earth, 24. As if their tribe had neither plant, nor seed, nor root in the earth; so that, when a wind bloweth among them, they wither, and a whirlwind carries them away like stubble. 25. Whom then will ye liken me to? saith the Holy One. 26. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold. Who hath created these things, and brought forth their host by number? He that calleth them all by name: so great is his ability, and so great is his might, that there is no lack of one. 27. Wherefore then sayest thou, O Jacob, and thou, O Israel, My way is hid from the LORD, and my judgment passeth before my God? 28. Don't you know? Hast thou not heard? The LORD, the eternal God, who created the ends of the earth, is not weary nor faint; his understanding is unfathomable. 29. He giveth strength to the weary, and power enough to the impotent. 30. The lads grow weary and faint, and the young men fall; 21. But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength, that they may mount up as eagles, that they may run, and not be weary, that they may walk, and not be faint. (Isaiah) Chapter 41 Vanity of idolatry. 1. Let the isles be silent before me, and let the nations strengthen themselves. Let them come near and speak now; let us be right with one another! 2. Who hath raised up the righteous from his rising? Who called him to go? Who gave the nations and kings before him, that he might be mighty over them; and gave them to his sword as dust, and to his bow as scattered stubble, 3. That he followed them, and passed through with peace, and was never weary of the way? 4. Who doeth it, and maketh it, and calleth all men one by one from the beginning? It is I the LORD, both the first and the last. 5. And when the isles saw it, they were afraid, and the ends of the earth were afraid; and they drew nigh, and came near. 6. And one helped another, and said unto his neighbour, Be of good cheer. 7. And the carpenter took the goldsmith, and made the plate smooth with the hammer upon the anvil, and said: This will be fine. And they fastened it with nails, that it should not shake. 8. But thou, O Israel, my servant Jacob, whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my beloved, 9. Who strengthened thee from the end of the world, and called thee from their mighty ones, and said unto thee, Thou shalt be my servant: for I choose thee, and will not reject thee, 10. Fear not, I am with you; do not turn away, for I am your God. I strengthen you, I also help you; I uphold you by the right hand of my righteousness. 11. Behold, they shall be mocked and put to shame, all they that offend thee; they shall be as nothing: and the men that dispute with thee shall perish, 12. That thou mayest inquire of them, and shalt not find them. The men that quarrel with thee shall be as nothing; and the men that fight against thee shall come to an end. 13. For I am the LORD thy God, which strengthen thy right hand, and say unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. 14. Fear not, O little worm of Jacob, ye poor multitude of Israel. I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. 15. Behold, I have made thee a sharp new threshing-floor, having prongs; and thou shalt break down mountains, and bruise them, and make the hills as chaff. 16. Thou shalt scatter them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall weave them. But thou shalt rejoice in the LORD, and shalt glory in the holy things of Israel. 17. The wretched and the poor seek water, and there is none: their tongue is parched with thirst. But I the LORD will hear them; I the God of Israel will not forsake them, 18. But I will open rivers of water upon the high places, and fountains in the midst of the fields; I will make the wilderness lakes of water, and the dry land springs of water. 19. I will give in the wilderness cedars, and pines, and myrtles, and pines; and in the field I will give firs, and beeches, and box trees together, 20. That they may see, and know, and perceive, and understand at the same time, that the hand of the LORD hath done these things, and that the Holy One hath created these things in Israel. 21. Let your cause come, saith the LORD; bring hither that ye stand upon, saith the king in Jacob. 22. Let them come near, and tell us what is to come. Declare unto us, and give us knowledge beforehand; let us consider it with our hearts, and know how it shall be hereafter: or let us hear what is to come. 23. Tell us what shall come after this, and we will know that ye are gods. In spite of yourselves, do good or harm, and let us talk about it and look at it together. 24. Behold, ye are of nothing, and your doings are also of nothing, and to choose you is abomination. 25. But I will raise up one from the north, and come from the rising of the sun. He shall preach my name unto them, and shall go over the mighty as over glues, and shall tread the dung as a potter. 26. Who can declare from the beginning? let us hear it; or prophesy beforehand? let us say, Thou speakest aright. But there is no proclaimer, no one to hear, no one to hear a word from you. 27. I am the first that saith unto Zion, Behold, here it is; and I give preachers unto Jerusalem. 28. But there I look, but there is none; and I look among them, but there is no counsellor; I ask them, but they answer nothing. 29. Behold, all is vain trouble, and nothing with their doings; their idols are wind and vain. (Isaiah) Chapter 42 Christ's goodness, the Jews' ingratitude. 1. Behold, this is my servant, I sustain him: and my chosen, in whom my soul is well pleased, I have given him my spirit; he shall bring judgment among the heathen. 2. He shall not cry, neither shall he shout; neither shall his voice be heard in the streets. 3. He will not break the bruised reed, nor quench the smoldering wick. He will teach to keep the law truly. 4. He shall not be sullen nor grievous, that he may establish judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law. 5. Thus saith the Lord GOD, which maketh the heavens, and stretcheth them out, and maketh the earth, and the increase thereof; which giveth breath unto the people that are therein, and breath unto them that walk therein: 6. I the LORD have called thee with righteousness, and have taken thee by the hand, and have kept thee, and have given thee for a covenant among the people, for a light to the Gentiles, 7. That thou shouldest open the eyes of the blind, and bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness from the dungeon. 8. I the LORD, that is my name, and will not give my glory to another, nor my honour to idols. 9. Behold, the things which are to come I declare beforehand, and proclaim new things: before they arise I will let you hear them. 10. Sing unto the LORD a new song. His glory is at the end of the earth; they that sail in the sea, and that are in it, the isles, and they that dwell in them! 11. Shout aloud, ye deserts, and the cities thereof, and the villages where Kedar dwelleth. They that dwell in the rocks shall shout, And call from the high places of the mountains. 12. Let them give glory to the LORD, and declare his fame in the isles. 13. The LORD shall go forth as a giant; he shall stir up zeal as a man of war; he shall shout and shout; he shall give way to his enemies. 14. I will hold my peace for a season, and be silent, and hold my peace. But now, like a woman in childbirth, I will cry out; I will lay them waste and devour them all. 15. I will lay waste the mountains and the hills, and wither all their grass; and I will make the rivers islands, and dry up the seas. 16. But the blind will I lead in the way which they know not; I will lead them in the paths which they know not: I will make the darkness light before them, and the cave a plain. These things will I do unto them, and will not forsake them. 17. But they that trust in idols, and say unto the molten image, Ye are our gods, shall return and be put to shame. 18. Hear, ye deaf; and look, ye blind, that ye may see. 19. Who is so blind as my servant, and who is so deaf as my messenger whom I send? Who is so blind as the perfect, and so blind as the servant of the LORD? 20. They preach much, but they keep it not: they tell them enough, but they will not hear. 21. Nor is the LORD pleased with them for his righteousness' sake, to make the law glorious and great, 22. They are a spoiled and plundered people; they are all entangled in dens, and hid in dungeons; they are become a spoil, and there is no deliverer, plundered, and there is none that saith, Restore them. 23. Who is there among you that heareth these things, and hearkeneth, and heareth that which cometh after? 24. Who delivered Jacob to plunder, and Israel to robbers? Hath not the LORD done it, against whom we have sinned? And they would not walk in his ways, neither obeyed they his law. 25. Therefore hath he poured out upon them the fury of his wrath, and a power of war; and hath set them on fire round about, but they know it not; and hath set them on fire, but they take it not to heart. (Isaiah) Chapter 43 The church has comfort in Christ and his suffering. 1. And now thus saith the LORD that created thee Jacob, and made thee Israel; Fear not, for I have redeemed thee: I have called thee by thy name: thou art mine. 2. For if thou pass through the waters, I will be with thee, and the rivers shall not drown thee: and if thou enter into the fire, thou shalt not burn, neither shall the flame kindle thee. 3. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour. I have given Egypt, Moor, and Seba in thy stead to make reconciliation. 4. Because thou art esteemed in mine eyes, thou also must be glorious, and I love thee: therefore will I give men in thy stead, and nations for thy soul. 5. Fear not therefore, for I am with thee. I will bring thy seed from the morning, and gather thee from the evening; 6. And I will say toward the north, Give me; and toward the south, Resist not. Bring my sons from afar, and my daughters from the end of the earth, 7. All that are called by my name, even whom I have created for my glory, and prepared them, and made them. 8. Bring forth the blind people, which have eyes; and the deaf, which have ears. 9. Let all the heathen be gathered together, and let the nations be assembled. Which of them shall proclaim these things, and make us hear aforetime what shall come to pass? Let them present their witnesses, and let them prove, and it shall be heard, and they shall say, It is the truth. 10. But ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen; that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he. Before me there was no God made, neither shall there be after me. 11. I am the LORD, and beside me there is no saviour. 12. I have declared, and have helped, and have told you; and there is no strange god among you. Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD; so am I GOD. 13. Neither am I, till there was no day; neither is there any that can deliver out of mine hand. I work; who shall turn it away? 14. Thus saith the LORD your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; For your sakes have I sent to Babylon, and have cast down all the bars, and have driven the wailing Chaldeans into the ships. 15. I am the LORD your Holy One, which have created Israel, your King. 16. Thus saith the LORD, that maketh way in the sea, and maketh way in strong waters; 17. Who bringeth forth chariots, and horses, and armies, and mighty men, and they lie down in a heap, and rise not up; and they go out as a wick goeth out: 18. Remember not the former things, and regard not the things which are past. 19. For, behold, I will make a new thing; now it shall grow up; that ye may know that I make a way in the wilderness, and rivers of water in the desert, 20. That the beast of the field may praise me, the dragon and the ostrich. For I will give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to water my people; my chosen ones. 21. This people have I prepared for myself; they shall tell my fame. 22. Not that thou hadst called me, O Jacob, or that thou hadst labored for me, O Israel. 23. For thou hast not brought me the sheep of thy burnt offering, neither hast thou honoured me with thy sacrifices: I have not desired thy service in the meat offering, neither have I desired thy work in the incense; 24. Thou hast not bought me calamity for money; thou hast not filled me with the fatness of thy sacrifices. Yea, thou hast made me labour in thy sins, and hast given me trouble in thine iniquities. 25. I will blot out thy transgression for my own sake, and will not remember thy sins. 26. Remind me, and let us be just one to another: tell me how thou wilt be just. 27. Thy forefathers have sinned, and thy teachers have dealt treacherously against me. 28. Therefore have I profaned the princes of the sanctuary, and made Jacob an outlaw, and Israel a scorn. (Isaiah) Chapter 44 God's majesty is praised, idolatry rejected. 1. Hear now, O my servant Jacob, and Israel, whom I have chosen. 2. Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and prepared thee, and hath stood by thee from the womb: Fear not, O my servant Jacob, and thou that art upright, whom I have chosen. 3. For I will pour water upon the thirsty, and streams upon the drought; I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thy seed, 4. That they may grow as grass, as the willows by the rivers of water. 5. This man shall say, I am the LORD'S; and this man shall be called by the name of Jacob: and this man shall ascribe himself with his hand unto the LORD, and shall be called by the name of Israel. 6. Thus saith the LORD King of Israel, and his Redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God. 7. And who is like unto me, that calleth, and proclaimeth, and bringeth it unto me, that setteth the nations from the world? Let them proclaim unto them the signs, and the things which are to come. 8. Fear not, neither be dismayed. Have I not at this time caused thee to hear and to proclaim it? For ye are my witnesses. Is there a God besides me? There is no refuge, for I know of none. 9. The idolaters are all vain, and their good things are of no profit. They are their witnesses, and see nothing, neither perceive; therefore they are put to shame. 10. Who are they that make a god, and cast idols, which are of no profit? 11. Behold, all their fellows are put to shame; for they are masters of men. Though they all come together, yet they shall fear, and be put to shame. 12. A man forgeth iron in the tongs, and worketh in the furnace, and maketh it ready with hammers, and worketh at it with all the strength of his arm: he also suffereth hunger, until he cannot; neither drinketh he water, until he be weary. 13. And the other carpeth wood, and measureth it with a cord, and marketh it with a red stone, and heweth it, and chiseleth it, and maketh it like a man's image, like a goodly man that dwelleth in the house. 14. He goeth freshly among the trees of the forest, to cut down the cedars, and to take the beeches and the oaks, even a cedar that is planted, and that is grown before the rain. 15. Which giveth fireworks unto men, and they take them to warm themselves, and they set them on fire, and bake bread with them. There he maketh a god of it, and worshippeth it: he maketh an idol of it, and boweth down to it. 16. Half of it he burneth in the fire, and over the other half he eateth flesh: and he roasteth a roast, and is satisfied, and warmed himself, and said, Hoja! I am warmed; I see my delight in the fire. 17. But the rest he maketh God, that it may be his idol, before which he kneeleth, and boweth down, and prayeth, saying, Save me: for thou art my God. 18. They know nothing, and understand nothing: for they are blinded, that their eyes cannot see, nor their hearts perceive, 19. And they enter not into their heart: there is no understanding, neither wit, that they should think: I have burned half of it with fire, and have baked bread upon the coals, and roasted meat, and eaten it; and shall make the rest an abomination, and shall kneel to a block? 20. It giveth ashes, and deceiveth the heart that inclineth unto it, and cannot save his soul. Nor thinketh he, Is this also deceit, which my right hand driveth? 21. Remember this, O Jacob, and Israel: for thou art my servant. I have prepared thee to be my servant: Israel, forget me not. 22. I will destroy thy iniquity as a cloud, and thy sin as the mist. Turn to me, for I will deliver you. 23. Rejoice, ye heavens, for the LORD hath done it: call down, ye earth; ye mountains, rejoice with singing; the forest and all the trees thereof: for the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and is glorious in Israel. 24. Thus saith the LORD thy Redeemer, which hath prepared thee from the womb: I am the LORD that doeth all things, that stretched out the heavens alone, and made the earth wide without help, 25. Who destroyeth the signs of the diviners, and maketh the diviners foolish; who turneth back the wise, and maketh their art foolish, 26. But confirm the word of his servant, and execute the counsel of his messengers, which saith unto Jerusalem, Be ye inhabited; and unto the cities of Judah, Be ye built; and I will raise up their desolations; 27. Who saith to the deep, Seal up; and to the rivers, Dry up. 28. Who saith unto Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and he shall accomplish all my will, that it may be said unto Jerusalem, Be thou built; and unto the temple, Be thou established. (Isaiah) Chapter 45 Redemption from Babylonian captivity. 1. Thus saith the LORD unto his anointed, Cyrus, whom I will take by his right hand, to subdue the heathen before him, and to cut off the sword from kings; that the doors may be opened before him, and the gates not shut: 2. I will go before thee, and level the humps; I will break the doors of brass, and break the bars of iron. 3. And I will give thee the secret treasures, and the hidden treasures, that thou mayest know that I the LORD God of Israel have called thee by thy name. 4. For Jacob my servant's sake, and for Israel my chosen. Yea, I called thee by thy name, and called thee, when thou knewest me not yet. 5. I am the LORD, and there is none else: there is no God without me. I have equipped thee, when thou knewest me not, 6. That they may know both the rising of the sun, and the going down of the sun, that there is nothing beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none more, 7. Who maketh light, and maketh darkness: who giveth peace, and maketh evil. I am the LORD, which doeth all these things. 8. Drop, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness; let the earth open, and bring forth salvation; and let righteousness increase with it. I, the LORD, create it. 9. Woe unto him that contendeth with his maker, even the potsherd with the potter of the clay. If the clay also saith unto his potter, What doest thou? Thou proveest not thy hands by thy work? 10. Woe unto him that saith unto his father, Why hast thou begotten me? and to his wife: Why hast thou conceived? 11. Thus saith the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, and their Master; Ask of me the signs; direct my children, and the work of my hands, unto me. 12. I have made the earth, and created man upon it. It is I whose hands have stretched out the heavens, and have commanded all his host. 13. I have raised him up in righteousness, and all his ways will I make even. He shall build my city, and let my captives go, not for money, nor for gifts, saith the LORD of hosts. 14. Thus saith the LORD; The trades of the Egyptians, and the trades of the Moors, and the long men of Sheba, shall yield themselves unto thee, and be thine own; they shall follow thee; they shall go in bonds, and shall fall down before thee, and make supplication unto thee: for with thee is God, and there is no more God. 15. Verily thou art a hidden God, O God of Israel, the Saviour. 16. But the idolaters must all stand with shame and scorn, and go down ashamed together. 17. And Israel shall be redeemed by the LORD unto an everlasting redemption, and shall not be put to shame, nor made a mockery of for ever and ever. 18. For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens, the God that prepared the earth, and made it, and fashioned it, and made it not to be empty, but prepared it to be inhabited; I am the LORD, and there is none else. 19. I have not spoken in secret in the dark place of the earth. I have not said in vain unto the seed of Jacob, Seek me. For I am the LORD that speaketh of righteousness, and declare that which is right. 20. Let the mighty men of the heathen be gathered together, and come together, which know not any thing, and bear themselves with the graven images of their idols, and make supplication unto God, who is not able to help. 21. Proclaim, and make yourselves known; take counsel together. Who hath spoken these things of old, and proclaimed them of old? Have not I, the LORD, done it? And there is no other God without me, a righteous God and Saviour; and there is none without me. 22. Turn ye unto me, and ye shall be saved, even to the end of the world. For I am God, and no other. 23. I swear by myself, and a word of righteousness proceedeth out of my mouth, and it shall stand: every knee shall bow unto me, and every tongue shall swear. 24. Saying, In the LORD have I righteousness and strength. Such also shall come unto him: but all they that resist him shall be put to shame. 25. For in the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory in him. Ch. 46. v. 1. Bel is bowed down, Nebo is fallen, their idols are given to beasts and cattle, that they may be weary with your burden. 2. Yea, they fall and bow down all, and cannot bear away the burden, but their souls must go into prison. (Isaiah) Chapter 46 God is his church's protection. 3. Hearken unto me, ye of the house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are borne in my womb, and lie with me in my mother. 4. Yea, I will bear you up unto old age, and till ye be grey. I will do it; I will lift and carry and save. 5. After whom do ye form me, and to whom do ye compare me? Against whom do ye measure me, that I should be like? 6. They pour out the gold out of the bag, and weigh the silver in the balances, and reward the goldsmith to make it a god, before whom they kneel and worship. 7. They lift him up on the shoulder, and bear him, and set him in his place. There he standeth, and cometh not out of his place. If any man cry unto him, he answereth not, neither helpeth him out of his trouble. 8. Remember these things, and be firm: ye transgressors, enter into your hearts. 9. Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none more, a God like unto whom there is none, 10. Who declareth beforehand that which is to come after, and before that which is to come to pass, saying, My purpose is established, and I will do all that I please. 11. I call unto a bird from the east, and to a man that doeth my bidding, from a far country. What I say, that let come; what I think, that do I. (Isaiah) Chapter 47 Destruction of tyrannical Babel. 12. Hearken unto me, ye of proud heart, which are far from righteousness. 13. I have brought my righteousness near, it is not far off, and my salvation is not delayed: for I will give salvation in Zion, and my glory in Israel. Ch. 47. v. 1. Down, virgin, thou daughter of Babylon, sit thou in the dust, sit thou upon the earth! For the daughter of the Chaldeans hath no more a seat. They shall call thee no more: Thou tender and lewd. 2. take the mill and grind flour, fray your braids, bare your foot, uncover your thigh, wade through the water, 3. That thy shame may be exposed, and that thy dishonour may be seen. I will be avenged, and no man shall abate me. 4. Our Redeemer, which is called the LORD of hosts, the Holy One of Israel, doeth these things. 5. Sit thou in silence, go into darkness, thou daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called Woman over Kingdoms. 6. For when I was wroth with my people, and profaned my inheritance, I delivered them into thine hand: but thou showedst them no mercy; neither didst thou make thy yoke too heavy upon the aged. 7. and thought: I am a queen for ever. Thou hast not yet laid these things to thine heart, nor thought how it shall be with them hereafter. 8. Hear now this, thou that livest in lust, and sittest so secure, and sayest in thine heart, I am, and no more; I will not be a widow, nor barren. 9. And they shall both come upon thee suddenly in one day, and thou shalt be a widow, and barren: yea, they shall come upon thee abundantly, because of the multitude of thy sorcerers, and because of thy conjurors, of whom there is a great multitude with thee. 10. For thou hast trusted in thine own wickedness, when thou thoughtest: I am not seen: thy wisdom and thy art have overthrown thee, saying in thine heart, It is I, and none else. 11. Therefore there shall come upon thee a calamity which thou knewest not when it brake, and an accident shall fall upon thee which thou canst not atone for: for there shall come upon thee a sudden tempest which thou knewest not. 12. Stand therefore with thy conjurors, and with the multitude of thy sorcerers, among whom thou hast laboured from thy youth, whether thou wouldest counsel thyself, whether thou wouldest strengthen thyself. 13. For thou art weary before the multitude of thy counsels. Let the masters of the course of the heavens stand and help thee, and the stargazers that reckon by the moons what shall come upon thee. 14. Behold, they are as stubble which the fire burneth up; they cannot save their lives from the flame: for there shall not be an ember to warm them, nor a fire to sit by. 15. So they among whom thou hast laboured are thy servants from thy youth: every one shall go his way hither and thither, and have no helper. (Isaiah) Chapter 48 The people's sin is punished, God's glory is praised. 1. Hear this, ye of the house of Jacob, which are called by the name of Israel, and are flowed out of the waters of Judah, which swear by the name of the LORD, and remember God in Israel, but not in truth nor righteousness. 2. For they call themselves of the holy city, and defy the God of Israel, which is called the LORD of hosts: 3. I have declared these things before: they are come out of my mouth, and I have spoken them: I do it suddenly that they come. 4. For I know that thou art hard; and thy neck is a vein of iron, and thy forehead is a vein of steel. 5. I told thee before, and I sent word unto thee before it came, lest thou shouldest say, My idol hath done it, and my image and my god hath commanded it. 6. These things thou hearest, and seest, and hast not declared. For I have told thee new things before, and hidden things, which thou knewest not. 7. But now is it created, and not then; and thou hast not heard of it a day before, lest thou shouldest say, Behold, I knew it. 8. For thou heardest not, neither knewest, neither was thine ear open at that time: but I knew that thou wouldest despise, and be called a transgressor from thy mother's womb. 9. Therefore I am patient for my name's sake, and for my glory's sake will I forbear thee, that thou be not cut off. 10. Behold, I will purify thee, but not as silver; but I will make thee choice in the furnace of affliction. 11. For mine own sake, yea, for mine own sake will I do it, that I be not blasphemed: for I will not leave mine honour to another. 12. Hearken unto me, O Jacob, and thou, O Israel, my called: I am he, I am the first, and also the last. 13. My hand hath laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand hath compassed the heavens: whatsoever I call, there standeth. 14. Gather yourselves together, all of you, and hear: Who is there among these that can declare these things? The LORD loveth him: therefore will he prove his will against Babylon, and his arm against the Chaldeans. 15. I, even I, have said it, I have called him; I will also cause him to come, and his way shall prosper him. 16. Come near unto me, and hear these things: I have not spoken them before in secret. From the time that it is spoken, I am there: and now the Lord GOD and his Spirit send me. 17. Thus saith the LORD thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God, which teach thee that which is good, and guide thee in the way that thou goest. 18. O that thou wouldest hearken unto my commandments! Then thy peace shall be as a river of water, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea, 19. And thy seed shall be as the sand, and the increase of thy body as the gravel thereof; whose name shall not be cut off nor destroyed from before me. 20. Go ye out from Babylon, flee from the Chaldeans with a joyful noise; proclaim and let it be heard; bring it forth unto the end of the world. Say, The LORD hath redeemed his servant Jacob. 21. They thirsted not, when he led them in the wilderness; he caused water to flow out of the rock for them; he rent the rock, and water ran out. 22. But the wicked, saith the LORD, have no peace. (Isaiah) Chapter 49 Christ never forgets his church. 1. Hearken unto me, ye isles, and ye nations afar off, take heed. The LORD hath called unto me from my mother's womb: he hath remembered my name, while I was yet in my mother's womb, 2. And hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; with the shadow of his hand hath he covered me. He hath made me a pure arrow; he hath put me in his quiver. 3. And saith unto me, Thou art my servant, O Israel, by whom I will be glorified. 4. But I thought that I labored in vain, and that I spent my strength in vain, though my cause was the Lord's, and my ministry my God's. 5. And now thus saith the LORD, which hath prepared me from my mother's womb to be his servant, that I should turn Jacob unto him, that Israel should not be taken away: therefore am I glorious in the sight of the LORD, and my God is my strength. 6. Saying, It is a small thing that thou art my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to bring again that which was desolate in Israel: but I have made thee also the light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be my salvation unto the end of the world. 7. Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, his Holy One, unto the despised soul, unto the people that are abominable, unto the servant that is among tyrants; Kings shall see and arise, and princes shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, because of the Holy One that is in Israel, who hath chosen thee. 8. Thus saith the LORD; I have heard thee in a good time, and have helped thee in the day of salvation; and have kept thee, and have set thee for a covenant among the people, to raise up the land, and to take the inheritance that was spoiled, 9. To say unto the captives: Come forth; and to them that are in darkness, Come forth; that they may feed by the way, and have their pasture upon every hill. 10. They shall neither hunger nor thirst, neither shall the heat nor the sun sting them: for their Beneficent God shall lead them, and shall guide them unto the springs of waters. 11. I will make all my mountains paths, and my ways shall be made plain. 12. Behold, these shall come from afar, and, lo, that midnight, and that from the sea, and that from the land of Sinnig. 13. Rejoice, ye heavens; be glad, O earth: praise ye mountains with singing. For the LORD hath comforted his people, and hath had mercy upon his afflicted. 14. And Zion saith, The LORD hath forsaken me, the LORD hath forgotten me. 15. Can a woman forget her child, that she have not compassion on the son of her womb? Though she forget him, yet will I not forget thee; 16. Behold, in my hands have I drawn thee. Thy walls are before me for ever. 17. Thy builders shall haste, but thy breakers and thy destroyers shall depart. 18. Lift up thine eyes round about, and behold! All these come gathered unto thee. As I live, saith the LORD, thou shalt be clothed with all these as with an ornament, and shalt put them about thee as a bride. 19. For thy land, which is desolate, and broken down, shall be too strait for thee to dwell in, when thy destroyers are come far from thee, 20. That the children of thy barrenness may continue to say in thine ears: The space is too narrow for me; move, that I may dwell with thee. 21. But thou shalt say in thine heart, Who begat me these? I am barren, solitary, driven out, and cast down. Who brought up these unto me? Behold, I was left alone; where then were these? 22. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will lift up mine hand unto the heathen, and will cast up my banner unto the nations; and they shall bring thy sons in thine arms, and carry thy daughters in their shoulders. 23. And the kings shall be thy nurses, and their princesses thy nurses. They shall fall to the ground before thee, and lick the dust of thy feet. Then shalt thou know that I am the LORD, in whom they that wait upon me shall not be put to shame. 24. Can a robbery be taken from a giant, or can the righteous be loosed from his captives? 25. For thus saith the LORD; Now shall the captives be taken from the giant, and the spoil of the strong be loosed: and I will contend with thy strife, and will save thy children. 26. And I will feed thy oppressors with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I am the LORD thy Saviour, and thy Redeemer, the Mighty One in Jacob. (Isaiah) Chapter 50 The rejection of the Jews. Christ's obedience. 1. Thus saith the LORD; Where is your mother's bill of divorcement, that I might have left her? Or who is my usurer, to whom I have sold you? Behold, ye are sold for your sins, and your mother is left for your transgressions. 2. Why came I, and there was none; I called, and no man answered? Is my hand now become so short, that it cannot deliver, or is there no power with me to deliver? Behold, with my rebuke I make the sea dry, and make the rivers of waters as a wilderness, that their fishes stink for want of water, and die for thirst. 3. I will clothe the heavens with darkness, and make his covering as sackcloth. 4. The Lord GOD hath given me a learned tongue, that I may know how to speak in season to him that is weary. He waketh me every morning; he waketh my ear, that I may hear as a disciple. 5. The LORD hath opened mine ear; and I am not disobedient, neither do I go back. 6. I set my back before them that smote me, and my cheeks before them that scolded me: I hid not my face from shame and spittle. 7. For the LORD help me, therefore I shall not be put to shame. Therefore have I set my face as a pebble; for I know that I shall not be put to shame. 8. He is near, he that judgeth me: who will dispute with me? Let us come together: who is he that judgeth me? Come ye hither unto me. 9. Behold, the LORD help me: who is he that will condemn me? Behold, they shall all wax old as a garment; moths shall eat them up. 10. Who is there among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and seemeth not to him? He shall hope in the name of the LORD, and rely upon his God. 11. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, armed with flames: walk in the light of your fire, and in flames which ye have kindled. These things are returned unto you of mine hand: in pain ye shall lie. (Isaiah) Chapter 51 Comfort of all believers, grounded in God's promise. 1. Hearken unto me, ye that pursue after righteousness, ye that seek the LORD: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the well whence ye are digged. 2. Look unto Abraham your father, and unto Sarah, of whom ye were born. For I called unto him, while he was yet single, and blessed him, and multiplied him. 3. For the LORD hath comforted Zion; he hath comforted all her desolations; he hath made her wildernesses as gardens of pleasure, and her fields as the garden of the LORD; to find delight and joy in them, and thanksgiving and praise. 4. Hearken unto me, my people; hearken unto me, my people. For from me shall go forth a law, and my judgment will I soon set forth for the light of the nations. 5. For my righteousness is near, my salvation goeth forth, and mine arms shall judge the nations. The isles wait for me, and wait for my arm. 6. Lift up your eyes toward heaven, and look down upon the earth. For the heavens shall pass away as smoke, and the earth shall wax old as a garment; and they that dwell therein shall die in the twinkling of an eye. But my salvation endureth for ever, and my righteousness shall not fail. 7. Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, O people, in whose hearts is my law. Fear not when men revile you, and be not dismayed when they make you despondent. 8. For moths shall eat them up as a garment, and worms shall devour them as a willing cloth: but my righteousness shall stand for ever, and my salvation for ever. 9. Hither, hither, come power, thou arm of the LORD! Farewell, as of old, as of old! Art thou not he that hath cut down the proud, and wounded the dragon? 10. Art thou not he that dried up the sea of great deep waters, that made the bottom of the sea a way for the redeemed to pass through? 11. So shall the redeemed of the LORD return, and come unto Zion with glory; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head. Delight and joy shall take hold of them, but mourning and sighing shall flee from them. 12. I am your Comforter. Who art thou then that thou art afraid of men that die, and of the children of men that are eaten for hay? 13. And forget the LORD that made thee, that stretched out the heavens, and founded the earth? But thou fearest the wrath of the wicked all the day long, when he is about to destroy. Where is the wrath of the wicked? 14. When he had made haste and run about, that he might deliver, and they died not in the destruction, neither lacked they bread? 15. For I am the LORD thy God, which turneth the sea, and the waves thereof rage: his name is called LORD of hosts. 16. I will put my word in thy mouth, and will cover thee under the shadow of my hands, that I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people. 17. Awake, awake, arise, O Jerusalem, which hast drunk of the hand of the LORD the cup of his wrath. The lees of the cup of staggering thou hast drunk, and licked the drops. 18. There was none of all the children which she bare to guide her, none of all the children which she brought up to take her by the hand. 19. These two met thee: who bare sorrow with thee? There was disturbance, harm, famine, and sword; who should comfort thee? 20. Thy children were fainted; they lay in every street like a snared hart, full of wrath from the LORD, and reproach from thy God. 21. Therefore hear this, thou wretched man, and drunken without wine! 22. Thus saith thy sovereign LORD, and thy God that avengeth his people; Behold, I take away the cup of stumbling out of thine hand, and the lees of the cup of my wrath; thou shalt drink it no more, 23. But I will deliver him into the hand of thy oppressors, which have said unto thy soul: Bend thee down, that we may pass over; and put thy back to the ground, and like an alley to pass over. (Isaiah) Chapter 52 Redemption of the church and loveliness of the gospel. 1. Arise, arise, O Zion; put on thy strength, adorn thyself gloriously, O holy city Jerusalem. For no uncircumcised or unclean shall reign in thee henceforth. 2. Get thee out of the dust, arise, thou captive Jerusalem: loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, thou captive daughter of Zion. 3. For thus saith the LORD, Ye are sold for nought; ye shall be redeemed without money. 4. For thus saith the LORD GOD; My people went down at the first into Egypt, to be sojourners there: and Assyria hath done them violence without a cause. 5. But how is it done unto me now in all this place? saith the LORD. My people are seduced in vain; their rulers make vain weeping, saith the LORD; and my name is blasphemed daily. 6. Therefore my people shall know my name in that day: for, behold, I myself will speak. 7. How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messengers that proclaim peace, that preach good, that proclaim salvation, that say unto Zion, Thy God is King. 8. Thy watchmen cry aloud with their voice, and boast together: for it shall be seen with eyes, when the LORD converteth Zion. 9. Let us be glad and rejoice together in the desolation of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, and redeemed Jerusalem. 10. The LORD hath revealed his holy arm in the sight of all nations, that the end of the world may see the salvation of our God. 11. Go away, go away! Depart from thence, and touch no unclean thing. Come out from her, purify yourselves, ye that bear the vessels of the LORD. 12. For ye shall not go out with haste, nor walk with flight: for the LORD shall go before you, and the God of Israel shall gather you. (Isaiah) Chapter 53 Christ's passion and resurrection. (On Good Friday.) 13. Behold, my servant shall do wisely, and shall be exalted, and very highly exalted, 14. That many shall be angry with thee, because his form is more ugly than other men's, and his countenance than the children of men. 15. But so shall he sprinkle many nations, that even kings shall shut their mouths against him. For unto them that have not heard of it shall they see with delight: and they that have not heard of it shall know it. Ch. 53. v. 1. But who will believe our preaching, and to whom will the arm of the Lord be revealed? 2. For he sprung up before him as rice, and as a root out of dry ground. He had no form nor beauty; we saw him, but there was no form to please us. 3. He was the most despised, the most unworthy, full of pain and sickness. He was so despised that people hid their faces from him; therefore we did not respect him. 4. For verily he bare our sickness, and took upon him our pains. And we took him for one that was afflicted, and smitten of God, and martyred. 5. But he is wounded for our iniquity, and bruised for our sin. The punishment is upon him, that we might have peace; and by his wounds we are healed. 6. We all went astray like sheep, every one looking to his own way: but the LORD cast upon him the sin of us all. 7. When he was punished and martyred, he opened not his mouth, as a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and as a sheep that is dumb before her shearers, and openeth not her mouth. 8. But he is taken out of anguish and judgment: who shall plead the length of his life? For he is taken out of the land of the living, because he was afflicted for the iniquity of my people. 9. And he was buried like the wicked, and died like a rich man, though he did no man wrong, neither was there deceit in his mouth. 10. But the LORD would smite him with disease. When he hath given his life for a trespass offering, he shall have seed, and shall live for a long time: and the LORD'S purpose shall pass away by his hand. 11. Because his soul hath wrought, he shall see his delight, and have his fullness. And by his knowledge shall he, my servant the righteous, justify many: for he beareth their sin. 12. Therefore will I give him a great multitude for a prey, and he shall have the strong for a prey: because he hath given his life unto death, and is counted like unto the transgressors, and hath borne many sins, and hath made intercession for the transgressors. (Isaiah) Chapter 54 The church's gift of grace from Christ her Bridegroom. 1. Boast, thou barren woman, which hast not given birth; rejoice with glory, and exult, thou that art not with child. For the lone woman hath more children than she that hath a husband, saith the LORD. 2. Make wide the room of thy tabernacle, and spread out the carpets of thy dwelling; spare not thine own; stretch thy cords long, and fasten thy nails. 3. For thou shalt go forth on the right hand, and on the left: and thy seed shall inherit the heathen, and shall dwell in the waste cities. 4. Fear not, for thou shalt not be put to shame: be not thou foolish, for thou shalt not be a laughingstock; but thou shalt forget the shame of thy virginity, and shalt remember no more the reproach of thy widowhood. 5. For he that made thee is thy husband; LORD of hosts is his name: and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, who is called GOD to all the earth. 6. For the LORD hath made thee to be as a woman forsaken, and sorrowful in heart, and as a young woman cast out, saith thy God. 7. I have left thee one thy moment; but with great mercy will I gather thee. 8. I have hid my face from thee a little in the moment of wrath: but with everlasting mercy will I have mercy upon thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. 9. For this shall be unto me as the waters of Noah, when I sware that the waters of Noah should no more pass over the face of the earth. So have I sworn that I will not be angry with thee, nor reproach thee. 10. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills shall fall: but my mercy shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace fall away, saith the LORD thy merciful God. 11. Thou wretched, over whom all weathers pass, and thou desolate! Behold, I will set thy stones as an ornament, and will lay thy foundation with sapphires. 12. And make thy windows of crystals, and thy gates of rubies, and all thy borders of choice stones; 13. And taught all thy children of the LORD, and great peace unto thy children. 14. Thou shalt be prepared by righteousness. Thou shalt be far from violence and wrong, that thou shalt not fear it; and from terror, that it come not nigh thee. 15. Behold, who shall again destroy thee, and overtake thee, if they destroy themselves without me? 16. Behold, I make it that the smith that bloweth up the coals in the fire shall make a stuff of them for his work: for I make it that the destroyer shall perish. 17. For every thing that is prepared against thee shall not prosper; and every tongue that shall set itself against thee thou shalt condemn in judgment. This is the inheritance of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness from me, saith the LORD. (Isaiah) Chapter 55 Of true repentance and God's word. 1. Now therefore, all ye that thirst, come ye hither for water; and ye that have no money, come ye hither, buy and eat; come ye hither, and buy without money, and for nothing, both wine and milk. 2. Why do ye count money where there is no bread, and your labour where ye cannot be satisfied? Hearken ye unto me, and eat that which is good, and your souls shall be fat with lust. 3. Give ear, and come unto me: hear, and your souls shall live. For I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the certain mercies of David. 4. Behold, I have set him for a witness unto the people, for a ruler and master unto the nations. 5. Behold, thou shalt call the heathen whom thou knowest not: and the heathen that know thee not shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and because of the Holy One that is in Israel, which glorifieth thee. 6. Seek the Lord, because he is to be found; call upon him, because he is near. 7. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the transgressor his thoughts, and turn unto the LORD; and he will have mercy upon him, and upon our God: for with him is much forgiveness. 8. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD, 9. But as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10. For as the rain and the snow falleth from heaven, and returneth not again; but moisteneth the earth, and maketh it fruitful and yielding, that it may give seed to sow, and bread to eat, 11. So shall the word that goeth forth out of my mouth be: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall do that which I please, and it shall prosper when I send it. 12. For ye shall go forth in joy, and be led in peace. Mountains and hills shall rejoice before you with glory, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 13. Let fir trees grow for hedges, and myrtles for thorns: and let the LORD have a name and an everlasting sign, that shall not be cut off. (Isaiah) Chapter 56 Admonition to godliness. Punishment of the dumb dogs. 1. Thus saith the LORD; Keep ye judgment, and do righteousness: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. 2. Blessed is the man that doeth these things, and the son of man that keepeth them, that he keep the sabbath day, and profane it not; and that he keep his hand, that he do no evil. 3. And the stranger that hath joined himself to the LORD shall not say, The LORD will separate me from his people. And he that is cut off shall not say, Behold, I am a dry tree. 4. For thus saith the LORD unto them that are cut off, which keep my sabbaths, and choose that which is right in mine eyes, and keep my covenant: 5. I will give them a place in my house, and within my walls, and a better name than that of sons and daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, which shall not pass away. 6. And the children of strangers, which have joined themselves unto the LORD, to serve him, and to love his name, that they may be his servants; every one that keepeth the sabbath day, that he profane it not, and keepeth my covenant. 7. These will I bring unto my holy mountain, and will make them joyful in my house of prayer: and their sacrifices and their burnt offerings shall be acceptable unto me upon mine altar: for mine house is called a house of prayer unto all people. 8. The LORD GOD, which gathereth the outcasts out of Israel, saith, I will gather more unto the multitude that are gathered together. 9. All ye beasts of the field, come and eat, yea, all ye beasts of the forest. 10. All their watchmen are blind, they all know nothing; dumb dogs are they, which cannot punish; are lazy lying, and love to sleep. 11. But they are strong dogs of the flesh, which can never be filled: they the shepherds know not understanding: every man looketh to his way, every man is covetous of himself in his estate. 12. Come ye hither, and let us take wine, and be drunken: and to morrow shall be as to day, and much more. Ch. 57. v. 1. But the righteous perish, and there is none that taketh it to heart; and holy men are taken up, and no man heareth. For the righteous are snatched away from calamity. 2. And they that have walked rightly before them come to peace, and rest in their chambers. (Isaiah) Chapter 57 God will punish the rebellious and make peace for the penitent. 3. And ye, come near, ye children of the day-widower, ye seed of the adulterer and the whore! 4. In whom will ye now have your pleasure? Over whom will ye now open your mouths, and stick out your tongues? Are ye not the children of transgression, and a false seed? 5. Ye that run in heat unto idols under every green tree, and slay the children by the rivers under the tops of the rocks? 6. Thy substance is in the smooth stones of the brook; they are thy portion: thou pourest out thy drink offering unto them, when thou offerest meat offerings. Shall I be comforted in this? 7. Thou makest thy camp upon a high and lofty mountain, and goest up there also to sacrifice. 8. And behind the door and the posts thou shalt set thy memorial. For thou rollest away from me, and goest up, and makest thy camp wide, and joinest thyself to them: thou lovest their camp, where thou seest them. 9. Thou hast burned with oil unto the king, and hast many spices: thou hast sent thy message afar off, and hast been humbled unto hell. 10. Thou didst labour in the multitude of thy ways, and saidst not, I leave it: but because thou findest life in thine hand, thou art not weary. 11. Of whom art thou so careful, and so afraid, when thou dealest in lies, and rememberest me not, and takest not to heart? Thinkest thou that I will keep silence all the way, that thou fearest me not at all? 12. But I will shew thy righteousness, and thy works, that they shall not profit thee. 13. If thou shalt call, let thy multitudes help thee. But the wind shall carry them all away, And vanity shall take them away. But he that trusteth in me shall inherit the land, And possess my holy mountain. 14. And he shall say, Make way, make way, clear the way, remove the stumblingblocks out of the way of my people. 15. For thus saith he that is high and exalted, which dwelleth for ever, whose name is holy, who dwelleth on high, and in the sanctuary, and with them that are of a contrite and a humble spirit; that I may quicken the spirit of the humble, and the heart of the contrite: 16. I will not always contend, neither will I be wroth for ever: but a spirit shall move from my face, and I will breathe. 17. I was wroth with the iniquity of their covetousness, and smote them, and hid myself, and was wroth: and they went to and fro in the way of their heart. 18. But when I saw their ways, I healed them, and guided them, and restored comfort unto them, and to them that mourned over them. 19. I will make fruit of the lips that preach: Peace, peace, both to them that are afar off, and to them that are nigh, saith the LORD; and I will heal them. 20. But the wicked are like a turbulent sea, which cannot be still, and the waves thereof cast out mire and filth. 21. The wicked have not peace, saith my God. (Isaiah) Chapter 58 Of fasting and sanctifying the Sabbath. 1. Shout confidently, spare not! Lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and declare to my people their transgression, and to the house of Jacob their sin. 2. They seek me daily, and desire to know my ways, as a people that have done righteousness, and have not forsaken the judgment of their God. They claim me rightly and want to be right with their God. 3. Why do we fast, and thou seest it not? Why do we afflict our bodies, and thou wilt not know it? Behold, when ye fast, ye do your will, and cast out all your trespassers. 4. Behold, ye fast to quarrel, and wrangle, and smite ungodly with your fists. Fast not so as ye do now, that a shout be heard from you on high. 5. Is this a fast that I should choose, that a man should do evil to his body by day, or hang his head like a reed, or lie on sackcloth and in ashes? Will ye call this fasting, and one day acceptable unto the LORD? 6. Now this is a fast which I choose: Loose those whom thou hast bound with iniquity; Release those whom thou hast burdened; Release those whom thou hast urged; Take away every burden; 7. Break thy bread to the hungry, and bring into the house them that are in misery: if thou seest any naked, clothe him, and be not deprived of thy flesh. 8. Then shall thy light break forth as the dawn, and thy correction shall speedily increase, and thy righteousness shall go before thee, and the glory of the LORD shall take thee. 9. Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer thee: and when thou shalt cry, he shall say, Behold, here am I. If thou wilt not afflict any man with thee, neither wilt thou point fingers, nor speak evil, 10. And thou shalt let the hungry find thy heart, and satisfy the wretched soul: thy light shall be for darkness, and thy darkness shall be as the noonday; 11. And the LORD shall guide thee for ever, and satisfy thy soul in the drought, and strengthen thy bones: and thou shalt be as a watered garden, and as a fountain of waters, which never lacketh water. 12. And by thee shall be built that which was long waste, and thou shalt lay the foundation thereof, which shall remain for ever: and thou shalt be called He that fenceth the gaps, and mendeth the ways, that they may dwell there. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath day, and do not that which is pleasing in thy sight on my holy day, it shall be a merry sabbath to hallow the LORD, and to praise him. For so shalt thou praise him, if thou do not thy ways, nor be found in them that please thee, or that speak thou. 14. Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD, and I will cause thee to soar upon the high places of the earth, and will feed thee with the inheritance of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD saith. (Isaiah) Chapter 59 The sins of the Jews are told. Christ will bite. 1. Behold, the hand of the LORD is not too short, that he cannot help; neither are his ears waxed thick, that he cannot hear, 2. But your iniquities separate you from your God, and your sins hide the face of you, that ye be not heard. 3. For your hands are stained with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips speak. Falsehood, your tongue sealeth iniquity. 4. There is none that preacheth righteousness, or that judgeth faithfully. They trust in vain things, and speak not righteous things: they are pregnant with misfortunes, and bring forth trouble. 5. they hatch basilisk eggs, and work cobwebs. If one eats of their eggs, one shall die; but if one crushes them, an adder comes out. 6. Their spider's web is not fit for garments, neither is their fabric fit for a covering: for their work is toil, and in their hands is wickedness. 7. Their feet run to evil, and are swift to shed innocent blood; their thoughts are trouble, their way is vain destruction and harm; 8. They know not the way of peace, neither is there any righteousness in their ways: they are perverse in their paths: he that walketh therein hath no peace. 9. Therefore is judgment far from us, and we obtain not righteousness. We wait for the light, and, behold, it is dark; for the light, and, behold, we walk in darkness. 10. We grope after the wall as the blind, and grope as they that have no eyes. We stumble in the midday as in the twilight; we are in the gloom as the dead. 11. We all growl like bears, and groan like doves: for we wait for judgment, if it be not there; for salvation, if it be far from us. 12. For our transgression before thee is too much, and our sins answer against us. For our transgressions are with us, and we feel our sins. 13. By transgressing, and lying against the LORD, and turning back from our God, and speaking iniquity and disobedience, striving, and uttering false words out of the heart. 14. Therefore also judgment is receded, and righteousness is put afar off: for truth falleth in the street, and righteousness cannot walk, 15. And the truth is gone; and he that departeth from evil is every man's spoil. The LORD seeth these things, and is displeased with them, because they are not right. 16. And he beheld that there was none, and marvelled that no man represented them. Therefore he himself helpeth him with his arm, and his righteousness sustaineth him. 17. For he putteth on righteousness as an armour, and setteth a helmet of salvation upon his head, and putteth on vengeance, and clotheth himself with zeal as with a garment, 18. As he will repay his adversaries, and pay his enemies with wrath; yea, the isles will he pay, 19. That the name of the LORD may be feared from the going down, and his glory from the rising of the sun, when he shall come as a stopped river, which the wind of the LORD driveth. 20. For unto them that are in Zion shall come a deliverer, and unto them that turn from sins in Jacob, saith the LORD. 21. And I make this covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit which is with thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed and of thy child, saith the LORD, from henceforth even for ever. (Isaiah) Chapter 60 The New Testament Church Assembly, Treasures and Goods. (Epistle on the day of Epiphany.) 1. Arise, get thee up; for thy light cometh, and the glory of the LORD riseth upon thee. 2. For, behold, darkness covereth the earth, and darkness the nations: but upon thee the LORD riseth up, and his glory shineth upon thee. 3. And the heathen shall walk in thy light, and kings in the brightness that riseth upon thee. 4. Lift up thine eyes, and look round about. These all gathered come unto thee! Thy sons shall come afar off, and thy daughters shall be brought up to the side. 5. Then shalt thou see thy desire, and shalt break forth; and thine heart shall be sore, and thou shalt be enlarged, when the multitude of the sea shall turn unto thee, and the power of the Gentiles shall come unto thee. 6. For the multitude of camels shall cover thee, the runners from Midian and Ephah. They shall all come out of Sheba, bringing gold and incense, and shall declare the praises of the LORD]. 7. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered unto thee, and the goats of Nebajoth shall serve thee. They shall be offered upon mine acceptable altar: for I will adorn the house of my glory. 8. Who are they that fly as the clouds, and as the doves to their windows? 9. The isles wait for me, and the ships of the sea before me, to bring thy children from far, with their silver and their gold, the name of the LORD thy God, and the Holy One in Israel, which hath glorified thee. 10. Strangers shall build thy walls, and their kings shall serve thee. For in mine anger have I smitten thee, and in my mercy have I had mercy upon thee. 11. And thy gates shall be open continually, and they shall not be shut day nor night; and the power of the heathen shall be brought unto thee, and their kings shall be brought. 12. For whatsoever nations or kingdoms will not serve thee, they shall perish; and the heathen shall be laid waste. 13. The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, fir trees, and beech trees, and box trees together, to adorn the place of my sanctuary: for I will make the place of my feet glorious. 14. They also that oppressed thee shall come bowing down unto thee: and all they that blasphemed thee shall fall down at thy feet, and shall call thee a city of the LORD, a Zion of the Holy One in Israel. 15. For because thou hast been the forsaken and hated, when no man went, I will make thee an everlasting glory, and a joy to all generations, 16. And thou shalt suck milk of the heathen, and the breasts of kings shall suckle thee; that thou mayest know that I the LORD am thy Saviour, and I the mighty one in Jacob am thy Redeemer. 17. I will bring gold for brass, and silver for iron, and brass for wood, and iron for stones: and I will make thy rulers to teach peace, and thy keepers to preach righteousness. 18. No more shall iniquity be heard in thy land, nor hurt nor destruction within thy borders: but thy walls shall be called salvation, and thy gates praise. 19. The sun shall no more shine in the day unto thee, neither shall the brightness of the moon give thee light; but the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 20. Thy sun shall no more go down, neither thy moon put out her light: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy sorrow shall be ended. 21. And thy people shall be righteous for ever, and shall inherit the earth for ever, as the branch of my planting, and the work of my hands, to praise. 22. From the least shall be a thousand, and from the least a mighty nation. I the LORD will hasten these things in his time. (Isaiah) Chapter 61 Christ's Magisterium. The joy of the church. 1. The Spirit of the LORD the LORD is upon me; therefore the LORD hath anointed me. He hath sent me to preach to the afflicted, to bind up the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and an opening to them that are bound, 2. To preach a gracious year of the Lord, and a day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all that mourn, 3. To make ready for the mourners of Zion, to give them ornaments for ashes, and the oil of gladness for mourning, and fair raiment for a sorrowful spirit; to call them trees of righteousness, plants of the LORD, to praise. 4. They shall build up the old desolations, and raise up the things that were destroyed before: they shall renew the cities that were laid desolate, which were in ruins for ever. 5. Foreigners shall stand and feed your flock, and foreigners shall be your husbandmen and your husbandmen. 6. But ye shall be called priests of the LORD, and shall be called the servants of our God: and ye shall eat the goods of the Gentiles, and boast of their glory. 7. For your reproach shall come in twain, and for shame shall they rejoice in their fields. For they shall possess double things in their land; they shall have everlasting joy. 8. For I am the LORD, which love righteousness, and hate a spoiled burnt offering: and I will make their work sure, and will make an everlasting covenant with them. 9. And their seed shall be known among the heathen, and their seed among the nations: that whosoever shall see them shall know them, that they are a seed blessed of the LORD, 10. I rejoice in the LORD, and my soul is glad in my God: for he hath clothed me with garments of salvation, and with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorned with priestly ornaments, and as a bride girdeth herself in her apparel. 11. For as the herb groweth up out of the earth, and as the seed cometh up in the garden, so shall righteousness and praise spring up out of the Lord GOD in the sight of all nations. (Isaiah) Chapter 62 Glory of the New Testament Church. 1. For Zion's sake I will not hold my peace; and for Jerusalem's sake I will not tarry, till her righteousness arise as a brightness, and her salvation as a torch, 2. That the heathen may see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall call. 3. And thou shalt be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD, and a royal hat in the hand of thy God. 4. Thou shalt no more be called Forsaken, nor thy land a desolation; but thou shalt be called My delight in her, and thy land a dear paramour: for the LORD hath delight in thee, and thy land hath a dear paramour. 5. For as a good man loveth a good man, so shall thy children love thee: and as a bridegroom rejoiceth over his bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee. 6. O Jerusalem, I will set watchmen upon thy walls, which shall never hold their peace all the day nor all the night, and which shall remember the LORD; that there be no silence among you, 7. And ye shall not hold your peace from him, till Jerusalem be finished, and be set for a praise upon the earth. 8. The LORD hath sworn by his right hand, and by the arm of his might: I will no more give thy corn to thine enemies to eat, nor thy wine, whereon thou hast laboured, to the strangers to drink, 9. But they that gather it shall eat it, and praise the LORD; and they that bring it in shall drink it in the courts of my sanctuary. 10. Go ye, pass through the gates, prepare the way for the people; make straight the way, make straight the way, clear the stones; cast a banner over the nations. 11. Behold, the LORD is heard unto the end of the world. Tell the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense is before him. 12. They shall call them the holy people, the redeemed of the LORD: and thou shalt be called the city visited and not forsaken. (Isaiah) Chapter 63 Christ's struggle and victory. 1. Who is he that cometh from Edom, clothed in the red of Bazrah, adorned with his garments, and treading in his great strength? I am he that teacheth righteousness, and am a master to help. 2. Why then is thy robe the colour of red, and thy raiment like the winepress? 3. I tread the winepress alone, and there is none among the nations with me. I have pressed them in mine anger, And trodden them in my fury. Therefore their wealth is sprinkled upon my garments, and I have defiled all my raiment. 4. For I have determined a day of vengeance: the year to redeem mine own is come. 5. For I looked round about, and there was no helper, and I was in terror, and no man contained me; but my arm had to help me, and my wrath contained me. 6. Therefore have I trodden down the nations in mine anger, and made them drunken in my wrath, and cast down their substance to the ground. The 64th chapter Praise of divine miracles. Prayer for salvation. 7. I will remember the goodness of the LORD, and the praise of the LORD in all that the LORD hath done unto us, and the great goodness of the house of Israel, which he hath done unto them in his mercy and great kindness. 8. For he said, They are my people, children that are not false. Therefore was he their saviour. 9. He that afflicted them afflicted him also: and the angel that is before him helped them. He delivered them, because he loved them, and spared them. He took them up, and carried them from of old. 10. But they provoked and enraged his Holy Spirit: therefore he became their enemy, and fought against them. 11. And he remembered the former time, Moses, which was among his people. Where then is he that brought them up out of the sea, and the shepherd of his flock? Where is he who gave his Holy Spirit among them? 12. Who led Moses by the right hand with his glorious arm, which parted the waters before them, that he might make him an everlasting name, 13. Who leadeth them through the deep, as horses in the wilderness, which stumble not, 14. As the cattle that go down into the field, which the breath of the LORD driveth? So hast thou also led thy people, that thou mightest make thee a glorious name. 15. Look therefore from heaven, and behold from thy holy glorious habitation. Where then is thy zeal, thy might? Thy great hearty mercy holdeth hard against me. 16. Thou art our father. For Abraham knoweth not of us, and Israel knoweth us not. But thou, O LORD, art our Father, and our Redeemer: of old time is thy name. 17. Why hast thou caused us to err, O LORD, from thy ways, and hardened our hearts, that we fear not thee? Return again for thy servants' sake, for the tribes' sake, for thine inheritance. 18. They almost possess thy holy people: thine adversaries have trodden down thy sanctuary. 19. We are as we were before, when thou didst not rule over us, and we were not called by thy name. (Isaiah) Chapter 64, 1: Oh that thou wouldest rend the heavens, and bring down the mountains before thee! 2. As waters boiled by fierce fire, that thy name might be known among thine enemies, and that the heathen might tremble at thy presence. 3. By the wonders which thou doest, which are not understood, when thou camest down, and the mountains were melted before thee. 4. For as it is not heard from the world, nor heard with ears, neither hath eye seen, without thee, O God, what befalleth them that wait for him. 5. Thou metst the merry, and them that do righteousness, and remember thee in thy ways. Behold, thou wast angry with us, because we sinned, and abode long within: but we were saved. 6. But now we are all as the unclean, and all our righteousness is as an unclean garment. We are all withered as the leaves, and our sins carry us away as the wind. 7. No man calleth upon thy name, nor riseth up to hold thee: for thou hidest thy face from us, and causest us to languish in our sins. 8. But now, O Lord, thou art our Father, we are clay; thou art our potter, and we are all the work of thy hands. 9. O LORD, be not angry with us, and remember not our sins for ever. Behold, we are all thy people! 10. The cities of thy sanctuary are desolate: Zion is desolate, Jerusalem is destroyed. 11. The house of our holiness and glory, wherein our fathers praised thee, is burned with fire, and all that we had of beauty is put to shame. 12. O Lord, wilt thou be so hard unto such, and hold our peace, and smite us so much? (Isaiah) Chapter 65 Casting out of the Jews. Calling of the Gentiles. 1. I am sought of them that asked not for me; I am found of them that sought me not: and to the Gentiles that called not upon my name, I say, Here I am, here I am. 2. For I stretch out my hands all the day long unto a disobedient people, which walk after their own thoughts in a way that is not good. 3. A people that indigneth me is ever before my face, sacrificing in the gardens, and burning incense upon the bricks, 4. dwell among the tombs, and keep themselves in dens, and eat swine's flesh, and have abominable soups in their pots 5. And say: Tarry at home, and stir me not: for I shall sanctify thee. Such shall become a smoke in mine anger, a fire that burneth all the day. 6. Behold, it is written before me: I will not keep silence, but will pay; yea, I will pay them in their bosoms, 7. Both their iniquity, and their fathers' iniquity, together, saith the LORD, which have burned incense in the mountains, and have defiled me in the hills; and I will measure unto them their former works in their bosoms. 8. Thus saith the LORD; As when one findeth must in a bunch, and saith, Destroy it not; for there is a blessing in it: so will I do for my servants' sakes, that I destroy it not all, 9. But I will cause seed to grow out of Jacob, and out of Judah to possess my mountain: for mine elect shall possess it, and my servants shall dwell there. 10. And Saron shall be a house for the flock, and the valley of Achor shall be a storehouse for my people that seek me. 11. But ye that forsake the LORD, and forget my holy mountain, and prepare a table for Gad, and offer a drink offering to Meni, 12. Now therefore I will number you to the sword, and ye shall all bow down yourselves to the battle: because I called, and ye answered not; because I spake, and ye hearkened not; but did that which was evil in my sight, and mentioned that which was not in my sight. 13. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, my servants shall eat, and ye shall hunger; behold, my servants shall drink, and ye shall thirst; behold, my servants shall rejoice, and ye shall be ashamed; 14. Behold, my servants shall shout for joy, but ye shall cry for sorrow, and howl for lamentation. 15. And ye shall leave your name for an oath unto my chosen ones: and the LORD GOD shall kill you, and call his servants by another name, 16. That whosoever shall bless himself on earth shall bless himself in the right God, and whosoever shall swear on earth shall swear by the right God: for the former fears are forgotten, and are hid from mine eyes. 17. For, behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth; and the former shall be no more to be remembered, nor to be cherished, 18. But they shall rejoice for ever, and be glad in that which I create. For, behold, I will make Jerusalem to rejoice, and her people to be glad. 19. And I will be glad in Jerusalem, and rejoice in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be heard no more within, neither the voice of lamentation. 20. There shall be no more children that do not attain their days, nor old men that do not fulfil their years: but the children of an hundred years shall die, and the sinners of an hundred years shall be accursed. 21. They shall build houses, and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit thereof. 22. They shall not build, that another may inhabit; neither shall they plant, that another may eat. For the days of my people shall be as the days of a tree, and the work of their hands shall wax old in mine elect. 23. They shall not labor in vain, nor bear untimely birth: for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their seed with them. 24. And it shall come to pass, before they call, that I will answer; and while they yet speak, that I will hear. 25. The wolf and the lamb shall feed together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and the serpent shall eat earth. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD. (Isaiah) Chapter 66 Spreading the true worship of God. 1. Thus saith the LORD; Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: what house then will ye build me, or what place shall I rest in? 2. My hand hath made all that there is, saith the LORD. But I look on the wretched, and on him that is of a broken spirit, and that feareth my word. 3. For he that killeth an ox is even as he that killeth a man. He that sacrificeth a sheep is as if he had broken the neck of a dog. He that offereth a meat offering is as he that offereth a wave offering. He that burneth incense is as one that praiseth iniquity. They choose such things in their ways, and their souls delight in their abominations. 4. Therefore will I also choose that which they shall mock at; and that which they shall shun will I bring upon them; because I called, and no man answered that I spake; and they hearkened not, and did that which was evil in my sight, and chose that which was not in my sight. 5. Hear the word of the LORD, ye that fear his word: your brethren that hate you, and turn you away for my name's sake, say: Let them see how glorious the LORD is: let him appear for your joy: they shall be put to shame. 6. For there shall be heard a voice of tumult in the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD paying his enemies. 7. She beareth before her woe: she is recovered of a child before the need of her child cometh. 8. who hath ever heard such things? Who hath seen such things? Can a nation be born at the same time, before a land has a woe? For Zion hath born her children without the woe. 9. Shall I suffer others to break the mother's womb, and shall not myself also bring forth? saith the LORD. Shall I let others bear, and be shut up myself? saith thy God. 10. Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad in her, all ye that love her. Rejoice with her, all you who have been sad over her! 11. For this ye shall suck, and be filled with the breasts of her consolation; ye shall suck for it, and be filled with the abundance of her glory. 12. For thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will spread peace over her as a river, and the glory of the Gentiles as a stream poured down: there shall ye suck. Ye shall be carried on your sides, and on your knees ye shall be held in kindness. 13. I will comfort you, as a mother comforts her mother: yea, ye shall be gladdened in Jerusalem. 14. Ye shall see it, and your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall be green as grass. Then shall the hand of the LORD be known in his servants, and wrath in his enemies. 15. For, behold, the LORD will come with fire, and his chariots as the weather, to recompense in the fierceness of his wrath, and his rebuke in flames of fire. 16. For the LORD will judge by fire, and by his sword all flesh: and the slain of the LORD shall be many. 17. They that sanctify themselves, and purify themselves in the gardens, one with another, and eat swine's flesh, and abominations, and mice, shall be gathered together, saith the LORD. 18. For I will come and gather their works and their thoughts together with all nations and tongues, and they shall come and see my glory. 19. And I will set a sign among them, and will send some of them that are saved unto the heathen that are by the sea, to Phul, and to Lud, and to the archers, and to Thubal, and to Javan, and unto the isles afar off, where they have not heard of me, and have not seen my glory; and they shall declare my glory among the heathen. 20. And all your brethren from all the nations shall bring a meat offering unto the LORD in horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and in mouths, and in heels, unto Jerusalem unto my holy mountain, saith the LORD; as the children of Israel bring a meat offering in a clean vessel unto the house of the LORD. 21. And I will take of them priests and Levites, saith the LORD. 22. For as the new heavens and the new earth that I shall make shall be before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name be before me. 23. And all flesh shall come one month after another, and one sabbath after another, to worship before me, saith the LORD. 24. And they shall go out, and see the dead bodies of the men that have trespassed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abomination to all flesh. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah) ^ Chapter 1 Jeremiah is called to proclaim the destruction of Jerusalem. 1. These are the acts of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests of Anathoth, in the land of Benjamin, 2. To whom the word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign, 3. And afterward in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, unto the end of the eleventh year of Zedekiah the son of Josiah king of Judah, unto the prison of Jerusalem in the fifth month. 4. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 5. I knew thee before I prepared thee in the womb, and I separated thee before thou wast born of thy mother, and set thee to be a prophet among the nations. 6. And I said, O Lord GOD, I am not fit to preach, for I am too young. 7. And the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am too young: but go whithersoever I send thee, and preach the things which I command thee. 8. Fear them not: for I am with thee, and will deliver thee, saith the LORD. 9. And the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth, and said unto me, Behold, I put my words in thy mouth. 10. Behold, I set thee this day over nations and kingdoms, to pluck up, and to break down, and to destroy, and to build, and to plant. 11. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said: I see a rod of valour. 12. And the LORD said unto me, Thou hast seen right: for I will be valiant in my word to do it. 13. And the word of the LORD came unto me the second time, saying, What seest thou? And I said: I see a hot boiling pot from the north. 14. And the LORD said unto me, From northward there shall be calamity upon all them that dwell in the land. 15. For, behold, I will call all the princes of the kingdoms toward the north, saith the LORD; and they shall come and set their seats at the gates of Jerusalem, and round about the walls thereof, and before all the cities of Judah. 16. And I will execute judgment upon them for all their wickedness; and they shall forsake me, and burn incense unto other gods, and worship the work of their hands. 17. Gird up thy loins therefore, and arise, and preach unto them all that I bid thee. Be not afraid of them, as if I should discourage thee! 18. For I will make thee this day a strong city, a pillar of iron, a wall of brass throughout all the land, against the kings of Judah, against their princes, against their priests, against the people of the land, 19. That though they fight against thee, yet they shall not prevail against thee: for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee. Ch. 2, v. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Go and preach openly at Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; I remember thee, when thou wast a kind young maid, and a fair bride, when thou followedest me in the wilderness of the land that soweth not, 3. When Israel was the LORD'S own, and the firstfruits thereof. He that devoured them was guilty, and evil came upon him, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah) Chapter 2 God's benefits. The sin and ingratitude of the Jews. 4. Hear the word of the LORD, ye of the house of Jacob, and all the families of the house of Israel. 5. Thus saith the LORD; How your fathers have erred in me, in that they have departed from me, and have walked after vain idols, when they obtained nothing, 6. And never once thought, Where is the LORD that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, and led us in the wilderness, in the wild land, in the land of no man, in the parched land, in the land of darkness, in the land where no man walked, nor where any man dwelt? 7. And I brought you into a good land, to eat the fruit thereof, and the goods thereof: and ye entered therein, and polluted my land, and made my inheritance an abomination unto me. 8. The priests thought not, Where is the LORD? and the scholars regarded me not, and the shepherds led men away from me, and the prophets prophesied of Baal, and worshipped useless idols. 9. I must always reproach myself with you, and with your children's children, saith the LORD. 10. Go ye into the isles of Chittim, and look, and send into Kedar, and mark diligently, and see whether it be so there, 11. Whether the heathen change their gods, though they be not gods? And yet my people have changed their glory for a vain idol. 12. If the heavens were astonished, and terrified, and greatly exalted, saith the LORD. 13. For my people have sinned a twofold sin: for they have forsaken me, the living fountain, and have made for themselves wells which are hewn out here and there, but they have holes, and give no water. 14. Is Israel then a bondman, or bondwoman, that he should be every man's spoil? 15. For the lions roared against him, and cried, and laid waste his land, and burned his cities, that none dwelt therein. 16. And they of Noph and Thachpanhes shall bruise thy head. 17. This do thou unto thyself, that thou trust in the LORD thy God, when he leadeth thee in the way. 18. What profit is it that thou goest into Egypt, and wilt drink the water of Sihor? And what profit is it that thou goest to Assyria, and wilt drink the water of Phrath? 19. It is the fault of thy wickedness that thou art beaten, and of thy disobedience that thou art punished: Thou shalt therefore know and know the sorrow and the heartache of forsaking the LORD thy God, and shalt not fear him, saith the LORD of hosts. 20. For thou hast always broken thy yoke, and rent thy bands, saying, I will not be so subdued: but upon every high hill, and under every green tree, thou hast lain in whoredom. 21. But I had planted thee for a sweet vine, an altogether upright seed. How then hast thou become unto me a bitter and wild vine? 22. Though thou wash thyself with lye, and take much soap, yet thy iniquity shineth the more before me, saith the LORD GOD. 23. How canst thou say, I am not unclean, I am not attached to Baalim? Behold, how thou doest it in the valley, and consider how thou hast done it. 24. Thou walkest about as a she-camel in heat, and as a wild beast in the wilderness, when it is in a great heat, and runneth, that no man can stop it. If you want to know, you must not run far; on the holiday you can see it. 25. Hold thou, I pray thee, and run not so hard. But thou sayest, I will not; I must court the strangers, and run after them. 26. As a thief is put to shame when he is taken, so shall the house of Israel be put to shame, and their kings, and their princes, and their priests, and their prophets, 27. Who say unto the wood, Thou art my father; and unto the stone, Thou hast begotten me. For they turn their backs upon me, and not their faces. But when trouble cometh, they say: Arise, and help us. 28. But where are thy gods, which thou hast made thee? Let them arise; Let them see if they can help thee in thy trouble. For many a city, many a god, hast thou, O Judah. 29. Why are ye yet right against me? Ye are all fallen from me, saith the LORD. 30. All the blows are lost upon your children; yet they cannot be drawn. For your sword devoureth your prophets like a fierce lion. 31. Thou wicked manner; mark the word of the LORD. Am I Israel a desolation, or a waste land? Why sayest thou my people, We are lords, and need not follow thee? 32. Forget not a virgin her jewels, nor a bride her veil: but my people forget me for ever. 33. Why hast thou much adorned thy doings, that I should be gracious unto thee? Under these appearances thou doest more and more wickedness. 34. About which the blood of poor and innocent souls is found with thee in every place, and is not secret, but manifest in the same places. 35. Nor sayest thou: I am innocent: turn away his wrath from me. Behold, I will be even with thee, and thou shalt say, I have not sinned. 36. How gladly wilt thou yield, and fall now hither, now hither! But thou shalt be ashamed of Egypt, as thou hast been ashamed of Assyria. 37. For thou also must depart thence, and smite thine hands together upon thy head: for the LORD will make thy hope fail, and thou shalt not prosper with them. Ch. 3, v. 1. And saith, If a man put away his wife, and she depart from him, and take another husband, may he receive her again? Is it not so, that the land is polluted? But thou hast dealt with many lovers: but come again unto me, saith the LORD. 2. Lift up thine eyes unto the high places, and see how thou doest whoredom in every place. By the highways thou sittest, and waitest for them, as an Arabian in the wilderness, and defileest the land with thy whoredom and thy wickedness. 3. Therefore also the early rain must fail, and the late rain must not come. Thou hast a whore's forehead, thou wilt not be ashamed any more. 4. and yet cries unto me, Dear father, thou master of my youth! 5. Wilt thou then be angry for ever, and not cease from wrath? Behold, thou teachest, and doest evil, and sufferest not to be taxed. (Jeremiah) Chapter 3 Exhortation to repentance Promise of divine grace. 6. And the LORD said unto me in the days of Josiah the king, Hast thou also seen what Israel the apostate hath done? She went up into all the high mountains, and under every green tree, and committed whoredom there. 7. And when she had done all these things, I said, Turn thou unto me. But she turned not. And though her sister Judah the hardened saw, 8. As I have punished adultery against Israel the apostate, and have forsaken her, and have given her a bill of divorcement: yet her sister Judah, which is hardened, feareth not, but goeth and committeth whoredom also. 9. And the land is polluted with the cry of her fornication: for she committeth adultery with stones and with wood; 10. And in all this Judah her sister, which is hardened, turneth not unto me with her whole heart, but feigneth herself thus, saith the LORD. 11. And the LORD said unto me, The apostate Israel is righteous against the stubborn Judah. 12. Go thy way, and preach toward the north, saying, Return, thou apostate Israel, saith the LORD; and I will not hide my face from you: for I am merciful, saith the LORD, and will not be angry for ever. 13. Only know thine iniquity, that thou hast sinned against the LORD thy God, and hast run to and fro unto strange gods among all the green trees, and hast not hearkened unto my voice, saith the LORD. 14. Turn ye, O ye apostate children, saith the LORD; for I will trust you unto me, and will fetch you, and one shall lead a whole city, and two a whole land; and I will bring you unto Zion. 15. And I will give you shepherds after mine own heart, which shall feed you with doctrine and wisdom. 16. And it shall come to pass, when ye are increased, and your number is increased in the land, that, saith the LORD, in that day they shall speak no more of the ark of the covenant of the LORD, neither shall they remember it, nor preach of it, nor visit it, nor sacrifice there any more, 17. But in that day shall Jerusalem be called the throne of the LORD: and there shall all the heathen be gathered together unto Jerusalem for the name of the LORD, and shall walk no more after the thoughts of their evil heart. 18. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the house of Judah shall go unto the house of Israel, and shall come together from the north unto the land which I gave unto your fathers for an inheritance. 19. And I say unto thee, How will I give thee so many children, and the good land, the goodly inheritance, even the host of the heathen? And I say unto thee, Thou shalt then call me..: And thou shalt not depart from me. 20. But the house of Israel regardeth me not, as a woman regardeth not her husband, saith the LORD. 21. Therefore there shall be heard a mourning and a weeping of the children of Israel in the high places, because they have done evil, and have forgotten the LORD their God. 22. Return therefore, ye apostate children, and I will heal you of your disobedience. Behold, we come unto thee: for thou art the LORD our God. 23. Verily it is all deceitfulness with hills, and with all mountains. Verily Israel hath no help but in the LORD our God. 24. And let the labours of our fathers, which we have kept from our youth, perish with shame, with their flocks, and their herds, and their children, and their daughters. 25. For that which we trusted in is now a reproach unto us: and that which we trusted in we are now ashamed of. For we have sinned against the LORD our God, both we and our fathers, from our youth even unto this day, and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God. (Jeremiah) Chapter 4 Repeated sermon of repentance. Prophecy of devastation of the Jewish land. 1. If thou wilt return, O Israel, saith the LORD, return unto me. And if thou put away thine abominations from my presence, thou shalt not be driven out. 2. Then shalt thou swear without hypocrisy, rightly and sacredly: As the LORD liveth! And the heathen shall be blessed in him, and shall glory in him. 3. For thus saith the LORD unto them of Judah and Jerusalem, Plant a new thing, and sow not under the hedges. 4. Circumcise yourselves unto the LORD, and put away the foreskin of your heart, ye men of Judah, and ye people of Jerusalem; lest my wrath come forth as fire, and burn, and no man quench it, because of your wickedness. 5. Proclaim ye then in Judah, and cry aloud unto Jerusalem, saying, Blow ye the trumpets in the land. Cry with a loud voice, saying, Gather yourselves together, and let us go into the strong cities. 6. Throw up a banner in Zion; heap ye up, and tarry not. For I bring a calamity from the north, and a great distress. 7. Therefore the lion cometh out of his hedge. And the destroyer of the heathen cometh out of his place. And the destroyer of the heathen cometh out of his place, to lay waste thy land, and to burn up thy cities, that no man dwell therein. 8. Therefore put on sackcloth, and mourn, and howl: for the fierce anger of the LORD will not cease from us. 9. In that day, saith the LORD, the heart of the king and of the princes shall fail; the priests shall be confounded, and the prophets shall be afraid. 10. And I said, O Lord GOD, thou hast greatly failed this people and Jerusalem, when they said, There shall be peace among you, though the sword reach unto the soul. 11. And it shall be said in that day unto this people and to Jerusalem, There cometh a dry wind out of the mountains, as out of the wilderness, by the way of the daughter of my people, not to whirl nor to blow. 12. Yea, a wind cometh, which shall be too strong for them: then will I also be right with them. 13. Behold, he goeth forth as the clouds, and his chariots are as the whirlwind, and his horses are swifter than eagles. Woe unto us, we shall be destroyed! 14. Wash therefore, O Jerusalem, thine heart from evil, that thou mayest be saved. How long shall these evil doctrines abide with thee? 15. For there cometh a cry from Dan, and an evil report from mount Ephraim, 16. As the heathen boast. And it hath sounded as far as Jerusalem, and the guardians shall come from far countries, and shall cry against the cities of Judah. 17. They shall besiege them round about, as the keepers of the field: for they have provoked me to anger, saith the LORD. 18. This thou hast to recompense for thy nature and for thy doings. Then shall thy heart feel how thy wickedness is so great. 19. How heartily I am pained! My heart throbs in my flesh, and I have no rest: for my soul heareth the sound of the trumpet, and a battle of the field. 20. And the cry of murder shall be upon the cry of murder: for all the land shall be devastated; suddenly shall my tents and my tabernacles be destroyed. 21. How long shall I see the banner, and hear the sound of the trumpet? 22. But my people are foolish, and believe me not: they are foolish, and regard not. They are wise enough to do evil, but they will not learn to do good. 23. I looked upon the land, and, behold, it was desolate and waste; and upon the heaven, and it was dark. 24. I looked upon the mountains, and, behold, they quaked, and all the hills trembled. 25. I looked, and, behold, there was no man, and every fowl under heaven was flown away. 26. I looked, and, behold, the field was a desolation, and all the cities thereof were broken down before the LORD, and before his fierce anger. 27. For thus saith the LORD, The whole land shall be desolate, and yet it shall not be utterly desolate. 28. Therefore the land shall be sad, and the heavens above shall be sorrowful: for I have spoken it, I have determined it, and I will not repent, neither will I cease from it. 29. All the cities shall flee from the shout of the horsemen and the archers, and shall run into the thick forests, and shall creep into the rocks: all the cities shall stand desolate, and none shall dwell therein. 30. What then wilt thou do, O thou that art distressed? Though thou be clothed in purple, though thou be adorned with jewels of gold, though thou make up thy face, yet thou adornest thyself in vain: for they that court thee shall despise thee, they shall seek thy life. 31. For I hear a cry as of a woman in childbirth, an anguish as of one in the first throes of childbearing, a cry of the daughter of Zion, lamenting and casting out her hands, Alas, woe is me, I am almost consumed with grief. (Jeremiah) Chapter 5 Many sins of the Jewish people and the punishments threatened against them. 1. Go ye through the streets of Jerusalem, and see, and know, and search in her streets, if ye find any that do right, and enquire after faith; and I will be gracious unto her. 2. And though they speak: By the living God, they swear falsely. 3. O Lord, thine eyes are upon faith. Thou smitest them, but they feel it not: thou afflictest them, but they amend not. They have a hard face like a rock, and will not be converted. 4. And I said, Well, this poor company is without understanding, and knoweth not the way of the LORD, nor the righteousness of their God. 5. I will go to the mighty, and speak unto them: they shall know the way of the LORD, and the judgment of their God: but they all had broken the yoke, and rent the cords. 6. Therefore also the lion that cometh out of the forest shall tear them, and the wolf that cometh out of the wilderness shall destroy them, and the leopard shall lie in wait for their cities; and all that go out therein shall he devour. For their sins are too many, and they are hardened in their rebellion. 7. How then shall I be gracious unto thee, because thy children forsake me, and swear by him that is not God? And when I have filled them, they commit adultery, and run into the whorehouse. 8. Every man neigheth after his neighbour's wife, as the full and idle stallions. 9. And shall I not punish them for these things? saith the LORD; and shall not my soul take vengeance on such a people as these? 10. Overthrow their walls, and cast them down, and make them not at all. Take away their branches; for they are not the LORD'S, 11. But they despise me, both the house of Israel, and the house of Judah, saith the LORD. 12. They deny the LORD, and say: This is he not, and so evil shall it not be unto us; sword and famine shall we not see; 13. Yea, the prophets are washers, neither have they the word of God: so let it pass over themselves! 14. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts; Because ye do such words, behold, I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and will consume them. 15. Behold, I will bring upon you of the house of Israel, saith the LORD, a nation from afar, a mighty nation, which were the first nation, a nation whose language thou canst not understand, neither canst thou hear what they say. 16. His quivers are open graves, they are vain giants. 17. They shall devour thy harvest and thy bread, they shall devour thy sons and thy daughters, they shall devour thy sheep and thy oxen, they shall devour thy vines and thy fig trees; thy strong cities, wherein thou trustedst, shall they destroy with the sword. 18. And I will not, saith the LORD, finish it in that day. 19. And if they say, Why doth the LORD our God do these things unto us? thou shalt answer them: As ye have forsaken me, and served strange gods in your own land, so shall ye serve strangers in a land that is not yours. 20. These things shall ye proclaim in the house of Jacob, and preach in Judah, saying: 21. Give ear, ye foolish people, which have no understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not. 22. Will ye not fear me, saith the LORD, and be afraid of me? For I have set the sand of the sea for a shore, wherein it shall dwell for ever, and it shall not pass over it: though it roll, it shall not be able; though the waves thereof rage, they shall not pass over it. 23. But this people have an apostate and disobedient heart; they remain apostate, and go away continually. 24. And say not even in their heart, Let us fear the LORD our God, which giveth us early rain, and rain in due season, and keepeth us the harvest faithfully year by year. 25. But your iniquities hinder such things, and your sins turn away such good from you. 26. For wicked men are found among my people, pursuing after men, and setting snares to catch them, as the reeves do with cobs. 27. And their houses are full of deceit, as a fowler is full of decoys. Therefore they become mighty and rich, fat and smooth. 28. They deal wickedly; they keep not justice; they promote not the cause of the fatherless, and prosper them; they help not the poor to justice. 29. Shall I not then visit these things, saith the LORD, and shall not my soul take vengeance on such a people as these? 10. The land is a dreadful and abominable place. 31. The prophets teach falsely, and the priests rule in their office, and my people are pleased so. How will ye fare at the last? (Jeremiah) Chapter 6 Babylonian captivity and its causes. 1. Gather yourselves together, ye children of Benjamin, out of Jerusalem, and sound the trumpets in the tabernacle of Thekoa, and cast upon a banner in the tabernacle of Beth-cherem: for there goeth a calamity from the north, and a great distress. 2. the daughter of Zion is like a beautiful and merry meadow. 3. But shepherds shall come upon them with their flocks, and shall pitch tents round about them, and feed every man in his place: 4. Prepare yourselves for war against them. Come, let us go up, for it is still high day. The evening is about to come, and the shadows are growing large. 5. Come, let us be up, and let us go up by night, and destroy their palaces. 6. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, Cut down trees, and make a vail against Jerusalem: for she is a city to be visited. For she is a city to be visited. For there is iniquity in it. 7. For as a brook quencheth its waters, so quencheth their wickedness. Their iniquities and their violence cry out against them; And their murders and their smitings do they daily before me. 8. Amend thee, O Jerusalem, before my heart turn from thee, and I make thee a desolate land, wherein no man dwelleth. 9. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; What is left of Israel shall be gathered afterward, as from the vine. The grape harvester shall cast one by one into the vats. 10. Ah, to whom shall I speak and testify? I wish someone would listen. But their ears are uncircumcised; they will not hear. Behold, they hold the word of the LORD in derision, and will not hear it. 11. Therefore I am so full of the LORD'S wrath, that I cannot forbear it. Pour out, both of you, upon the children of the streets, and upon the company of the council together: for both man and woman, both old and old, shall be taken. 12. Their houses shall be for the strangers, and their fields, and their wives: for I will stretch out mine hand, saith the LORD, upon the inhabitants of the land. 13. For they are all covetous, both small and great; and both prophets and priests teach false worship. 14. And comfort my people in their affliction, that ye should esteem them little, saying, Peace, peace; and yet is not peace. 15. Therefore shall they be ashamed, because they have committed such abominations, though they will be undefiled, and will not be ashamed. Therefore they shall fall upon a heap: and when I shall visit them, they shall fall, saith the LORD. 16. Thus saith the LORD; Stand ye in the ways, and look, and enquire of the former paths which is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they say: We will not do it. 17. I have set watchmen over you. Heed the voice of the trumpets. But they speak: We will not do it. 18. Hear therefore, ye Gentiles, and take heed with your people. 19. O earth, listen! Behold, I will bring a calamity upon this people, their deserved reward, that they will not heed my words, and will reject my law. 20. Why ask I for the incense that cometh out of the kingdom of Arabia, and for the good cinnamon bark that cometh from a far country? Your burnt offerings are not acceptable to me, and your sacrifices are not pleasing to me. 21. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will set a stumblingblock before this people, and both fathers and children shall stumble together, and one neighbour shall perish with another. 22. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, a people shall come from the north, and a great nation shall rise up hard against our land, 23. Who bear bows and shields. They are cruel and without mercy; they roar like a raging sea; they ride on horses, armed like men of war, against you, O daughter of Zion. 24. When we shall hear of them, our fists shall fall out: we shall be afraid and sore as one that travaileth in childbirth. 25. Let no man go out into the field, neither let any man pass over the ground: for in every place there is no safety from the sword of the enemy. 26. O daughter of my people, wear sackcloth, and lay thee in ashes: mourn as for an only son, and lament as they that are highly afflicted: for the destroyer cometh upon us suddenly. 27. I have set thee to be a smelter among my people, which are so hard, that thou shalt know and try their nature. 28. They are all apostates, and walk deceitfully: they are vain corruptors of brass and iron. 29. The bellows are burned up, the lead disappeareth: the melting is vain, for the evil is not separated therefrom. 30. Wherefore they are called rejected silver: for the LORD hath rejected them. (Jeremiah) Chapter 7 Outward worship without true repentance is an abomination in the sight of God. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: 2. Enter ye into the gate of the house of the LORD, and preach there this word, saying, Hear the word of the LORD, all ye of Judah that enter into these gates to worship the LORD. 3. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Your life and your substance will I dwell with you in this place. 4. Do not listen to their lies when they say, Here is the Lord's temple, here is the Lord's temple, here is the Lord's temple. 5. But amend your lives and your ways, that ye may do right one to another. 6. And do no violence to strangers, orphans, or widows, nor shed innocent blood in this place; and follow not after other gods to your own hurt; 7. I will dwell with you always in this place, in the land which I gave to your fathers. 8. But now ye rely upon lies, which are of no profit. 9. Besides these, ye are thieves, and murderers, and adulterers, and perjurers, and burn incense unto Baal, and go after strange gods, which ye know not. 10. Then come ye, and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, There is no need of us, because we do such abominations. 11. Think ye then that this house, which is called by my name, is a den of thieves? Behold, I see it, saith the LORD. 12. Go to my place at Shiloh, where my name dwelt before, and see what I have done there for the wickedness of my people Israel. 13. Because ye all do such things, saith the LORD, and I always preach unto you, and ye will not hear; I call you, and ye will not answer: 14. Then will I do unto the house which is called by my name, in which ye trust, and unto the place which I gave unto your fathers, even as I did unto Shiloh. 15. And I will cast you out of my sight, as I have cast out all your brethren, all the seed of Ephraim. 16. And thou shalt not plead for this people, neither shalt thou make complaint nor prayer for them, neither shalt thou plead for them before me: for I will not hear thee. 17. For seest thou not what they do in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem? 18. The children read wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead the dough, to bake cakes unto Melecheth of heaven, and to give drink offerings unto the strange gods, that they may offend me. 19. But they shall not be grieved with me, saith the LORD, but with themselves, and shall be put to shame. 20. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, my wrath and my fury is poured out upon this place, both upon men, and upon cattle, and upon the trees of the field, and upon the fruit of the ground; and it shall burn, that none may quench it. 21. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Set your burnt offerings and your sacrifices in abundance, and eat flesh. 22. For I spake not unto your fathers in the day that I brought them up out of the land of Egypt, neither commanded I them of burnt offerings, and of sacrifices, 23. But this I commanded them, saying, Obey my word, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people, and walk in all the ways which I command you, that it may be well with you. 24. But they would not hear, nor incline their ears, but walked after their own counsel, and after the counsel of their evil heart, and went behind them, and not before them. 25. Yea, from the day that I brought your fathers up out of the land of Egypt unto this day have I sent unto you all my servants the prophets. 26. But they will not hearken unto me, nor incline their ears; but are stiffnecked, and do worse than their fathers. 27. And though thou say these things unto them, yet will they not hear thee: if thou call unto them, they will not answer thee. 28. Therefore say unto them: This is the people that will not hear the LORD their God, nor amend themselves. Faith is perished and cut off from their mouths. 29. Cut off thy hair, and cast it from thee, and howl piteously in the high places: for the LORD hath rejected and cast away this generation, against whom he is wroth. 30. For the children of Judah do evil in my sight, saith the LORD. They put their abominations in the house that is called by my name, to defile it, 31. And they build the altars of Topheth in the valley of Benhinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters: which I commanded not, neither did I take in mind. 32. Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be called Topheth, and the valley of Ben-hinnom, but the valley of choke: and they shall bury in Topheth, because there shall be no more room. 33. And the carcases of this people shall be meat for the fowls of the air, and for the beasts of the earth: no man shall scare them away. 34. And I will take away in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, the cry of joy and gladness, and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride: for the land shall be desolate. Chap. 8, v. 1.At that time, saith the LORD, the bones of the kings of Judah, the bones of their princes, the bones of the priests, the bones of the prophets, the bones of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, shall be cast out of their graves. 2. And they shall be scattered among the sun, and the moon, and all the host of heaven, which loved them, and served them, and followed them, and sought them, and worshipped them. They shall not be gathered up again, nor buried, but shall be dung upon the earth. 3. And all the remnant of this wicked people, in the place whither I have cast them out, shall rather be dead than alive, saith the LORD of hosts. (Jeremiah) Chapter 8 The unrepentant Jews are threatened with the Chaldean invasion. 4. Say therefore unto them, Thus saith the LORD; Where is there any that falleth, which will not gladly rise again? Where is there any that goeth astray, which will not gladly recover himself? 5. For yet this people of Jerusalem will go astray for ever and ever. They hold so hard to the false worship, that they will not be turned away. 6. I see and hear that they teach nothing right. There is none that is sorry for his wickedness, saying, What do I do? They all run their course like a fierce stallion at war. 7. A stork under heaven knoweth his time, a turtledove, a crane, and a swallow, know their time, when they shall return: but my people will not know the right of the LORD. 8. How can ye say, We know what is right, and have the scriptures before us? For what the scribes say is a lie. 9. Therefore such teachers must be put to shame, and be afraid, and be taken: for what good can they teach, because they reject the word of the LORD? 10. Therefore will I give their wives unto strangers, and their fields unto them that drive them out. For they are all covetous, both small and great; and both priests and prophets teach false worship. 11. And they comfort my people in their affliction, that they should esteem them little, saying, Peace, peace; and yet is not peace. 12. Therefore shall they be ashamed, because they have committed such abominations, though they will be undefiled, and will not be ashamed. Therefore they shall fall in heaps, and when I visit them, they shall fall, saith the LORD. 13. I will gather them all, saith the LORD; and there shall not be left grapes in the vine, nor figs in the fig tree; yea, the leaves also shall fall away: and that which I have given them shall be taken away from them. 14. Where then shall we dwell? gather yourselves together, and let us go into the strong cities, and there wait for help. For the LORD our God will help us with a bitter drink, because we have sinned against the LORD. 15. Yea, trust ye that there shall be no need, when there is no good; and that ye shall be healed, when there is great hurt. 16. And it shall be heard, that their horses shall make a noise in Dan, and their horses shall give a shout, and the whole land shall tremble. And they shall go forth, and devour the land, and all that is therein, and the city, and all that dwell therein. 17. For, behold, I will send serpents and basilisks among you, which are not sworn; and they shall bite you, saith the LORD. 18. There will I rejoice in my labour and in my heart's sorrow. 19. Behold, the daughter of my people shall cry out from a far country, Will not the LORD be God in Zion any more, or shall she have no king? Yea, why have they provoked me to anger with their images, and with their strange and vain services? 20. The harvest is past, the summer is gone, and no help is come unto us. 21. I am heartily sorry that my people are so corrupt: I am grieved and wretched. 22. Is there no ointment in Gilead? or is there no physician? Why then is not the daughter of my people healed? (Jeremiah) Chapter 9 Jeremiah's lamentation over his people's sins and the same punishment. 1. Oh that I had water enough in my head, and that mine eyes were fountains of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of my people! 2. Oh that I had an inn in the wilderness, that I might leave my people, and depart from them. For they are vain adulterers, and an unruly multitude. 3. They shoot with their tongues vain lies, and no truth: and they do violence in the land, and go from wickedness to wickedness, and regard me not, saith the LORD. 4. Let every man beware of his friend, neither let him trust his brother: for brother oppresseth another, and friend betrayeth another. 5. One friend deceiveth another, and speaketh no truer word: they labour how one may deceive another, and are sorry that they cannot make it worse. 6. There is deceitfulness among them everywhere: and for deceitfulness they will not know me, saith the LORD. 7. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will melt them, and try them. For what else shall I do, because my people are so adorned? 8. Their false tongues are murderous arrows: with their mouth they speak kindly against their neighbour, but in their heart they lie in wait for him. 9. Should I not therefore visit these things upon them, saith the LORD, and should not my soul take vengeance upon such a people as these? 10. I have wept and lamented upon the mountains, and lamented upon the waste places: for they are utterly desolate, and none walketh there, neither can cattle be heard to cry. The birds of the air and the cattle are all gone. 11. And I will make Jerusalem a heap of stones, and a dragon's habitation; and I will make the cities of Judah desolate, and none shall dwell therein. 12. Who then would be wise, and would let him go to his heart, and declare the things which the mouth of the LORD saith unto him, why the land is laid waste and desolate, as a wilderness where no man walketh? 13. And the LORD said, Because they have forsaken my law, which I commanded them, and have not hearkened unto my words, neither have they walked in them, 14. But follow the dictates of their hearts, and Baalim, as they taught their fathers, 15. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will feed this people with wormwood, and water them with gall. 16. I will scatter them among the heathen, which know neither them nor their fathers; and I will send the sword after them, until they be finished. 17. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Create and appoint wailing women to come, and send for them that are able, 18. And hastening to lament, our eyes run with tears, and our eyelids flow with water, 19. And there shall be heard a lamentable cry in Zion, saying, Alas, how we are utterly desolate and confounded! We must leave the land, for they have taken away our dwellings. 20. Hear therefore, ye wives, the word of the LORD, and take heed to the words of his mouth: teach your daughters to weep, and one to mourn, even thus: 21. Death is come in at our windows, and into our palaces, to choke the children in the street, and the young men in the street. 22. Thus saith the LORD; Say: The dead bodies of men shall lie as dung in the field, and as sheaves behind the reaper, which no man gathereth. 23. Thus saith the LORD; Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his strength, neither let the rich man glory in his riches, 24. But let him that will boast boast, that he knoweth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD, which do mercy, and judgment, and righteousness in the earth: for these things please me, saith the LORD. 25. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will visit all the circumcised with the uncircumcised, 26. Egypt, Judah, Edom, the children of Ammon, Moab, and all that dwell in the wilderness places. For all the heathen have uncircumcised foreskins, but all the house of Israel have uncircumcised hearts. (Jeremiah) Chapter 10 Not idols, but God alone is to be feared and called upon. 1. Hear what the LORD saith unto you concerning the house of Israel. 2. Thus saith the LORD; Ye shall not learn the manner of the heathen, neither shall ye be afraid of the signs of heaven, as the heathen are afraid: 3. For the gods of the heathen are nothing. They hew down a tree in the land, and the master of the work maketh them with an axe. 4. And adorn them with silver and gold, and fasten them with nails and hammers, that they fall not down. 5. They are nothing but pillars covered. They cannot speak, so they must be carried, for they cannot walk. Therefore do not be afraid of them, for they can neither help nor hurt. 6. But unto thee, O LORD, is no man like: thou art great, and thy name is great, and canst prove it in deed. 7. Who shall not fear thee, O king of the heathen? For thou shalt be obeyed: for there is none like thee among all the wise men of the heathen, nor in all the kingdoms. 8. They are all fools and fools only: for a wood must be a vain service. 9. Silver plate is brought from the sea, and gold from Uphaz, prepared by the master and the goldsmith; yellow silk and purple are made for him: all this is the work of the wise. 10. But the LORD is a true God, a living God, an everlasting King. The earth trembleth at his wrath, and the heathen cannot bear his wrath. 11. Say ye therefore unto them, The gods which have not made heaven and earth must be destroyed from off the earth, and from under heaven. 12. And he made the earth by his power, and prepared the world by his wisdom, and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. 13. When he thundereth, the multitude of waters is under heaven, and he causeth the mists to come up from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings in the rain, and causeth the wind to come out of secret places. 14. All men are fools in their art, and all goldsmiths are ashamed of their images: for their idols are deceitfulness, and have no life. 15. It is vain nothing, and a deceitful work; they must perish when they are afflicted. 16. But he that is Jacob's treasure is not so; but he that made all things, and Israel is his inheritance. His name is called LORD of hosts. 17. Put away thy trade out of the land, thou that dwellest in the strong city. 18. For thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will spoil the inhabitants of the land this day, and will afflict them, that they may feel it. 19. Alas for the sorrow of my heart! But I think, It is my affliction, I must suffer it. 20. My tabernacle is broken down, and all my cords are rent. My children are gone, and are no more. No man rebuildeth my tabernacle, neither pitcheth my tent again. 21. For the shepherds are become fools, and enquire not after the LORD: therefore can they teach nothing that is right, but all the flocks are scattered. 22. Behold, there cometh a shout, and a great shaking out of the land of the north, that the cities of Judah shall be desolate, and shall become the habitation of dragons. 23. I know, O Lord, that a man's doings are not in his power, neither is it in any man's power how he shall walk, or how he shall direct his course. 24. Chasten me, O LORD, but with moderation, and not in thine anger, lest thou destroy me. 25. But pour out thine anger upon the heathen that know thee not, and upon the kindreds that call not upon thy name. For they have devoured Jacob, and swallowed him up; they have cleared him up, and laid his habitation waste. (Jeremiah) Chapter 11 God's Covenant. The Jews' transgression Jeremiah's life danger 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: 2. Hear ye the words of this covenant, and tell them unto them that are in Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 3. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Cursed be he that obeyeth not the words of this covenant, 4. Which I commanded your fathers in the day that I brought them up out of the land of Egypt out of the iron furnace, saying, Hearken unto my voice, and do as I have commanded you; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God, 5. That I may keep the oath which I sware unto your fathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day. And I answered and said, Lord, yea, so be it. 6. And the LORD said unto me, Preach all these words in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, saying, Hear the words of this covenant, and do them. 7. For I have testified unto your fathers from the day that I brought them up out of the land of Egypt unto this day, and have borne witness early, saying, Hearken unto my voice. 8. But they hearkened not, neither inclined their ears; but went every man according to his own evil heart. Therefore will I also cause to pass upon you all the words of this covenant, which I commanded to be done, and yet they have not done them. 9. And the LORD said unto me, I know well how they are routed in Judah and in Jerusalem. 10. They turn again to the sins of their forefathers, who also would not hearken unto my words, and followed after other gods, and served them. So the house of Israel and the house of Judah have broken my covenant, which I made with their fathers. 11. Therefore, behold, saith the LORD, I will bring upon them a calamity, which they shall not escape: and when they cry unto me, I will not hear them. 12. Let the cities of Judah therefore, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, go and cry unto the gods which they have burned incense unto: but they will not help them in their trouble. 13. For many a city, and many a god, hast thou, O Judah: and many a street is Jerusalem, and many an altar of shame have ye set up to burn incense unto Baal. 14. Now therefore pray not for this people, neither make supplication nor prayer for them: for I will not hear them when they cry unto me in their affliction. 15. What have my friends to do in my house? They do all wickedness, and think that the holy flesh shall take it from them: and when they do evil, they are well pleased. 16. The LORD called thee a green olive tree, fair and fruitful: but now hath he kindled a fire round about the same with a great cry of murder, that the boughs thereof must perish. 17. For the LORD of hosts, which planted thee, hath brought thee evil, because of the wickedness of the house of Israel and of the house of Judah, which they do, to provoke me to anger with their incense, which they do unto Baal. 18. The LORD hath revealed it unto me, that I might know it; and he hath shewed me their doings, 19. That they might bring me as a poor sheep to the slaughter. For I knew not that they had consulted against me, saying, Let us destroy the tree with his fruit, and cut him off from the land of the living, that his name be never more remembered. 20. But thou, O LORD of hosts, righteous judge, that tryest the kidneys and the hearts, let me see thy vengeance upon them: for I have committed my cause unto thee. 21. Therefore thus saith the LORD against the men of Anathoth, which stand after thy life, and say: Prophesy not unto us in the name of the LORD, lest thou die at our hands. 22. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will punish them; and their young men shall be slain with the sword, and their sons and their daughters shall die of hunger; and there shall not be left any of them; 23. For I will bring evil upon the men of Anathoth in the year when they shall be afflicted. (Jeremiah) Chapter 12 The bliss of the wicked will soon come to an end. 11. O Lord, though I would be right with thee, yet thou art right: yet of the right must I speak unto thee. Why is it that the wicked are so well off, and the scornful have all things in abundance? 2. Thou plantest them, that they take root, and grow, and bring forth fruit: thou sufferest them to boast much of thee, and chastenest them not. 3. But thou, O LORD, knowest me, and hast judged me, and hast tried my heart before thee. But thou hast let them go free as sheep to be slain, and hast spared them to be strangled. 4. How long shall the land be laid waste, and the grass of the field wither in every place, because of the wickedness of the inhabitants, that both cattle and fowl shall be no more? For they say: He knoweth well how we shall fare. 5. If they that go on foot wear thee out, how wilt thou fare when thou goest with horsemen? And if thou seek safety in the land of peace, what shall become of thee by Jordan the proud? 6. For thy brethren also, and thy father's house, have despised thee, and have cried out against thee. Therefore trust thou not in them, though they speak kindly unto thee. 7. Therefore have I forsaken my house, and shunned my inheritance, and delivered my dear soul into the hand of mine enemies. 8. My inheritance is become unto me as a lion in the forest, and roareth against me: therefore am I grieved against him. 9. My inheritance is like the speckled bird around which the birds gather. Come and gather yourselves together, all ye beasts of the field; come and feed. 10. Shepherds, and many of them, have spoiled my vineyard, and trodden down my field; they have made my good land desolate, they have made it waste. 11. I see already how it is so miserably desolate; yea, the whole land is desolate. But no one wants to take it to heart. 12. For the destroyer passeth over all the hills of the wilderness, and the devouring sword of the LORD from one end of the land even unto the other: and there shall no flesh have peace. 13. They sow wheat, but they shall reap thistles: they make it sour unto them, but they shall not enjoy it: they shall not be glad of their revenue before the fierce anger of the LORD. 14. Thus saith the LORD against all my wicked neighbours, that touch the inheritance which I have distributed for my people Israel: Behold, I will pluck them out of their land, and will pluck the house of Judah out of their substance. 15. And it shall come to pass, when I have plucked them out, that I will have mercy upon them again, and will restore every man to his inheritance, and to his own land. 16. And it shall come to pass, when they shall learn of my people, that they shall swear by my name: As the LORD liveth, as they have taught my people to swear by Baal, so shall they be built among my people. 17. But if they will not hearken, then will I pluck up such people, and destroy them, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah) Chapter 13 Punishment of the Jews, in effigies of the linen belt and wine leech. 1. Thus saith the LORD unto me, Go and buy thee a linen girdle, and with it ferment thy loins, and wet it not. 2. And I bought a girdle according to the commandment of the LORD, and girded it about my loins. 3. And the word of the LORD came unto me the second time, saying: 4. Take the girdle which thou hast bought, and girded it about thy loins, and arise, and go to the Phrath, and hide it there in a grove of stones. 5. And I went and hid him at Phrath, as the LORD commanded me. 6. And after a long time the LORD said unto me, Arise, go to the Phrath, and fetch again the girdle, which I commanded thee to hide there. 7. And I went to the Phrath, and digged up, and took the girdle out of the place where I had hid it: and, behold, the girdle was corrupt, that it was no more good. 8. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 9. Thus saith the LORD; Even so will I destroy the great hope of Judah and Jerusalem. 10. The wicked people, which will not hearken unto my words, but go according to the deceit of their heart, and follow other gods, to serve them, and to worship them: they shall be as the girdle that is no more good. 11. For as a man girdeth a girdle about his loins, so have I, saith the LORD, girded about me all the house of Israel, and all the house of Judah, that they should be my people, for a name, for praise, and for honour: but they will not hear. 12. Now therefore say unto them this word, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Let all the vessels be filled with wine. And they shall say unto thee, Who knoweth not that all the vessels shall be filled with wine? 13. Say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will fill all that dwell in this land, the kings that sit on the throne of David, the priests, and the prophets, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to make them drunken. 14. And I will scatter one with another, the fathers with the children, saith the LORD; and I will not spare, nor overlook, nor have mercy upon their ruin. 15. Hearken therefore, and take heed, and resist not: for the LORD hath spoken it. 16. Give glory unto the LORD your God, before it be dark, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, that ye may wait for the light, when he shall make it dark and gloomy. 17. But if ye will not hear these things, yet my soul weepeth in secret for such hope: mine eyes are filled with tears, because the flock of the LORD is taken. 18. Say unto the king and to the queen, Sit down; for the crown of glory is fallen from off your heads. 19. The cities of the south are shut up, and there is none to open them: all Judah is carried away clean. 20. Lift up your eyes, and see how they come from the north. Where then is the flock that was commanded thee, thy glorious flock? 21. What wilt thou say, when he shall thus afflict thee? For thou hast made them accustomed unto thee, that they should be princes and chiefs. What is the matter? fear shall come upon thee like a woman in childbearing. 22. And if thou wilt say in thine heart: Why do these things befall me? Because of the multitude of thine iniquity thy hems are uncovered, and thy thighs are bared. 23. Can a Moor also change his skin, or a leopard his spots? So can ye also do good, because ye are accustomed to evil. 24. Therefore will I scatter them as stubble that is blown before the wind out of the wilderness. 25. This shall be thy reward, and thy portion which I have measured out unto thee, saith the LORD. Because thou hast forgotten me, and hast relied upon lies, 26. Then will I also set thy hems on high against thee, that thy shame may be seen. 27. For I have seen thy adulteries, and thy lewdness, and thy fornications, even thine abominations, both in the hills, and in the fields. Woe unto thee, O Jerusalem! When wilt thou be purified more and more? (Jeremiah) Chapter 14 Drought and famine. Jeremiah's intercession. 1. This is the word which the LORD spake unto Jeremiah concerning the precious time: 2. Judah lieth miserable, her gates are fallen down: the land is desolate; and there is a great drought in Jerusalem. 3. The great send the little ones for water; but when they come to the well, they find no water, and bring their vessels empty. again. They go sad. and afflicted, and cover their heads, 4. Because the earth languisheth, because it rained not upon the earth. The husbandmen go sadly, and cover their heads. 5. For the hinds also, which cast in the field, leave the young, because there is no grass. 6. The wild beasts stand upon the hills, and gasp for breath, as the dragons, and languish, because no herb groweth. 7. O Lord, our iniquities have merited it: but help us for thy name's sake: for great is our disobedience, that we have sinned against thee. 8. Thou art the consolation of Israel, and their helper in trouble: why standest thou as a sojourner in the land, and as a stranger that sojourneth within? 9. Why hast thou set thyself forth as a valiant man, desponding, and as a giant that can not help? For thou art among us, O LORD, and we are called by thy name: forsake us not. 10. Thus saith the LORD concerning this people; They love to run to and fro, and they love not to tarry at home: therefore the LORD will not have them, but now remembereth their iniquity, and will punish their sins. 11. And the LORD said unto me, Thou shalt not ask mercy for this people. 12. For though they fast, yet will I not hear their supplications: though they bring burnt offerings and meat offerings, yet will they not please me; but I will destroy them with the sword, with famine, and with pestilence. 13. And I said, O Lord GOD, behold, the prophets say unto them: Ye shall see no sword, neither shall there be any plague with you: but I will give you good peace in this place. 14. And the LORD said unto me, The prophets prophesy falsely in my name: I have not sent them, neither have I commanded them, nor spoken unto them: they preach unto you false visions, and interpretations, and idolatries, and deceitfulness of their hearts. 15. Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the prophets that prophesy in my name, when I have not sent them, and yet they preach that there shall no sword nor plague come into this land: Such prophets shall die by the sword and by the famine. 16. And the people to whom they prophesy shall lie by the sword, and shall famish in the streets of Jerusalem, and no man shall bury them: so shall their wives, and their sons, and their daughters; and I will pour their wickedness upon them. 17. And thou shalt say unto them this word, Mine eyes run down with tears day and night, and cease not: for the virgin, the daughter of my people, is horribly afflicted and miserably stricken. 18. When I go forth into the field, behold, they that are slain with the sword lie there: and when I come into the city, they that are famished with hunger lie there. For the prophets also, and the priests also, must go into a land which they know not. 19. Hast thou then rejected Judah, or hast thy soul disgusted with Zion? Why then hast thou smitten us so that no man can heal us? We hoped that there should be peace, and there is no good: we hoped that we should be healed, but, behold, there is more harm. 20. O LORD, we acknowledge our ungodliness, and the iniquity of our fathers: for we have sinned against thee. 21. But for thy name's sake let us not be profaned; let not the throne of thy glory be mocked: yet remember, and let not thy covenant with us cease. 22. For there is none among the heathen that giveth rain: neither can heaven rain. For thou art the LORD our God, in whom we hope: for thou canst do all these things. (Jeremiah) Chapter 15 Punishment on the impenitent. 1. And the LORD said unto me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, yet have I no heart toward this people. Drive them away from me, and let them go. 2. And if they say unto thee, Whither shall we go? say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; Whom death shall smite, let it smite him; whom the sword shall smite, let it smite him; whom famine shall smite, let it smite him; whom prison shall smite, let it smite him. 3. For I will punish them with four plagues, saith the LORD; with the sword, that they may be slain; with dogs, that they may be dragged; with the fowls of the air, and with the beasts of the earth, that they may be devoured, and be put to death. 4. And I will drive them to and fro throughout all the kingdoms of the earth because of Manasseh the son of Jehizkiah king of Judah, because of his transgression in Jerusalem. 5. Who then will have mercy upon thee, O Jerusalem? Who then will have compassion on thee? Who then will go and buy thee peace? 6. Thou hast forsaken me, saith the LORD, and fallen away from me: therefore have I stretched out mine hand against thee, to destroy thee: I am weary of mercy. 7. And I will cast them out of the land with the shovel of words, and will make my people vain orphans, if they turn not from their nature, and will destroy them. 8. There shall be more widows for me among them than there are sands of the sea. I will bring upon the mother of the young men a manifest destroyer, and will overtake the city with it suddenly and unawares, 9. She that hath seven children shall be wretched, and shall groan with her heart. For their sun shall go down in high day; and both their glory and their joy shall be at an end. And the rest will I put to the sword before their enemies, saith the LORD. 10. O my mother, that thou hast born me, against whom all men dispute and quarrel in all the land! I have neither lent nor borrowed on usury, nor do men curse me. 11. And the LORD said, Well, I will spare you a few, and they shall prosper: and I will come to your help in trouble and in fear from among your enemies. 12. Thinkest thou not that there is an iron that can break the iron and brass of the north? 13. But I will first give your goods and your treasures into the bottle, and ye shall receive nothing for them; and that for all your sins which ye have committed in all your borders. 14. And I will bring you unto your enemies into a land which ye know not: for the fire is come upon you in mine anger. 15. O Lord, thou knowest; remember us, and take care of us, and avenge us on our persecutors. Receive us, and consume not thine anger upon them: for thou knowest that we are reproached for thy sake. 16. But keep thy word from us, if we have it: and thy word is the joy and comfort of our hearts: for we are called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. 17. We will not join the scoffers, nor rejoice with them, but we will be alone before thy hand: for thou art very angry with us. 18. Why is our grief so long, and our wounds so grievous, that no man can heal them? Thou art become unto us as a spring that will no more spring. 19. Therefore thus saith the LORD; If thou shalt cleave unto me, I will cleave unto thee, and thou shalt be my preacher: and if thou shalt teach the righteous from the wicked, thou shalt be my teacher: and before thou shalt fall unto them, they shall fall unto thee. 20. For I have made thee a strong wall of brass against this people: though they fight against thee, they shall not hurt thee: for I am with thee to help thee, and to deliver thee, saith the LORD. 21. And will also deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked, and will redeem thee out of the hand of tyrants. (Jeremiah) Chapter 16 The Jews are to be led to Babel and from there redeemed again. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Thou shalt not take a wife, nor beget sons or daughters in this place. 3. For thus saith the LORD concerning the sons and daughters that are born in this place, and concerning their mothers that bear them, and concerning their fathers that beget them in this land: 4. They shall die of sickness, and shall not be lamented, neither shall they be buried: but they shall be dung upon the ground, and perish by the sword and by the famine: and their dead bodies shall be meat for the fowls of the air, and for the beasts of the earth. 5. For thus saith the LORD; Thou shalt not go to the house of mourning, neither shalt thou go anywhere to mourn, nor have compassion on them: for I have taken away my peace from this people, saith the LORD, with my grace and my mercy, 6. And both they, great and small, shall die in this land, and shall not be buried, neither shall they be lamented; neither shall any man cut himself upon them, nor make them bald. 7. Neither shall they divide bread among them for a lamentation, to comfort them for a dead body; neither shall they give them drink of the cup of consolation for their father and mother. 8. Therefore shalt thou not go into any drinking house to sit with them, neither to eat nor to drink. 9. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will raise up in this place before your eyes, and in your life, the voice of joy and gladness, the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride. 10. And when thou hast told all these things unto this people, and they shall say unto thee: Why saith the LORD against us all this great evil? what is this iniquity and sin, that we have sinned against the LORD our God? 11. And thou shalt say unto them, Because your fathers have forsaken me, saith the LORD, and have followed other gods, and served them, and worshipped them, and have forsaken me, and have not kept my law, 12. And ye do more wickedly than your fathers. For, behold, every man liveth after the imagination of his own evil heart, that he should not obey me. 13. Therefore will I thrust you out of this land into a land which neither ye nor your fathers know, and there ye shall serve other gods day and night: there will I show you no mercy. 14. Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said: As the LORD liveth, which brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, 15. But, As the LORD liveth, which brought up the children of Israel out of the land of the north, and out of all countries whither he had driven them. For I will bring them again into the land which I gave unto their fathers. 16. Behold, I will send forth many fishermen, saith the LORD, and they shall fish; and afterward I will send forth many hunters, and they shall hunt them in every mountain, and in every hill, and in every cave of stones. 17. For mine eyes are upon all their ways, that they cannot hide themselves from me: and their iniquity is unconcealed from mine eyes. 18. But first I will pay their iniquity and their sin double, because they have polluted my land with the carcases of their idols, and filled my inheritance with their abominations. 19. O LORD, thou art my strength, and my power, and my refuge in trouble. The heathen shall come unto thee from the end of the world, saying, Our fathers had false and vain gods, which profit nothing. 20. How can a man make gods that are not gods? 21. Therefore, behold, now will I teach them, and make known my hand and my power unto them, that they may know that my name is the LORD. (Jeremiah) Chapter 17 Idolatry, reliance on creatures, desecration of the Sabbath, etc., are causes of all unhappiness. 1. The sin of Judah is written with styluses of iron, and with pointed demonds, and graven upon the tablet of their heart, and upon the horns of their altars, 2. And their children shall remember the same altars and groves among the green trees in the high mountains. 3. But I will give both thy high places, on mountains and in fields, with thy substance, and all thy treasures, into the river of rapine, because of sin committed within all thy borders. 4. And thou shalt be cast out of thine inheritance which I have given thee, and I will make thee servants of thine enemies in a land which thou knowest not: for ye have kindled a fire of mine anger, which shall burn for ever. 5. Thus saith the LORD; Cursed is the man that trusteth in man, and keepeth flesh for his arm, and departeth from the LORD with his heart. 6. He shall be as the heathen in the wilderness, and shall not see the consolation that is to come; but shall abide in drought, in desolation, in a barren land, where no man dwelleth. 7. But blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and the LORD is his confidence. 8. He is planted like a tree by the waters, and rooted by the brook. For though a heat cometh, yet it feareth not, but the leaf thereof remaineth green, and sorroweth not when a drought cometh, but bringeth forth fruit without ceasing. 9. The heart is a stout and timorous thing: who can search it out? 10. I the LORD am able to search the heart, and to try the kidneys: and I give unto every man according to his doings, according to the fruits of his works. 11. For as a bird that sitteth over eggs, and hatcheth them not, so is he that gathereth unrighteous goods: for he is made to eat them, when he esteemeth them least, and is made a mockery of them at the last. 12. But the place of our sanctuary, which is the throne of the glory of God, is established for ever. 13. For, O LORD, thou art the hope of Israel. All they that forsake thee must be put to shame, and the apostates must be written in the earth: for they forsake the LORD, the fountain of living waters. 14. Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed: help me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my glory. 15. Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of the LORD? Let us go, my beloved! 16. But I have not therefore fled from thee, my shepherd: I have not desired the days of men, thou knowest: that which I have preached is right in thy sight. 17. Be thou not terrible unto me, my confidence in trouble! 18. Let them be put to shame that persecute me, and me not; let them be dismayed, and me not; let the day of calamity come upon them, and break them in twain. 19. Thus saith the LORD unto me, Go and stand under the gate of the people, where the kings of Judah go in and out, and under all the gates of Jerusalem. 20. And say unto them: Hear the word of the LORD, ye kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, which come in at this gate. 21. Thus saith the LORD; Take heed, and bear no burden in the gates of Jerusalem on the sabbath day. 22. And bring no burden out of your houses on the sabbath day, neither do ye any work: but hallow the sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers. 23. But they will not hear, neither will they incline their ears; but they will be stiffnecked, that they may not hear me, nor be drawn away. 24. If ye will hear me, saith the LORD, that ye bear no burden through the gates of this city on the sabbath day, but keep it holy, that ye do no work on that day, 25. And through the gates of this city shall go out kings, and princes that sit on the throne of David, riding, and going, both in chariots, and on horses, they and their princes, and all that dwell in Judah and in Jerusalem: and this city shall be inhabited for ever. 26. And they shall come from the cities of Judah, and from Jerusalem round about, and from the land of Benjamin, and from the valleys, and from the mountains, and from the south, bringing burnt offerings, and sacrifices, and meat offerings, and incense, unto the house of the LORD. 27. But if ye will not hearken unto me, to hallow the sabbath day, and to bear no burden in the gates of Jerusalem on the sabbath day, then will I kindle a fire under their gates, and it shall devour the houses of Jerusalem, and it shall not be quenched. (Jeremiah) Chapter 18 True repentance preserves, impenitence corrupts. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: 2. Arise, go down to the potter's house; there will I make thee hear my words. 3. And I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he was working at the wheel. 4. And the pot which he made of the clay was displeasing in his hands. And he made another pot again, as it pleased him. 5. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 6. Can I not also deal with you, ye of the house of Israel, as with this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye of the house of Israel in mine hand. 7. Suddenly I speak against a nation and a kingdom, to roll them up, and to break them, and to destroy them. 8. But if he turn from his wickedness, which I speak against, then I also shall repent of the evil that I thought to do unto him. 9. And suddenly I speak of a nation and a kingdom, that I may build them and plant them. 10. But if he do evil in mine eyes, and hearken not unto my voice, then the good which I promised him to do shall repent me also. 11. Speak therefore unto them that are in Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I am preparing evil for you, and have thoughts against you: therefore turn ye every man from his evil way, and amend your ways and your doings. Twelve, but they say: Nothing will come of it! We will walk after our own thoughts, and do every man according to the imagination of his evil heart. 13. Therefore saith the LORD, Ask ye of the heathen, who hath heard of such a thing as this, that the virgin of Israel hath done such an abominable thing? 14. If the snow be longer upon the stones of the field, when it snoweth from Lebanon, and the waters of the rain be not so soon as my people forget me. 15. They burn incense unto the gods, and make mischief in their ways for to and fro, and walk in roads not trodden, 16. That their land may become a desolation, and an everlasting reproach unto them: that they which pass by may be astonished, and shake their heads. 17. For I will scatter them before their enemies with an east wind; I will show them the back, and not the face, when they perish. 18. But they say: Come, and let us counsel against Jeremiah: for the priests cannot err in the law, and the wise men cannot fail in counsel, and the prophets cannot teach unrighteously. Come, and let us smite him with our tongues, and give no heed to all his words. 19. Take heed, O Lord, and hear the voice of mine adversaries. 20. Is it right to repay good with evil? For they have digged a pit in my soul. Remember how I stood before thee, and spoke their best, and turned away thine anger from them. 21. Now therefore punish their children with famine, and put them to the sword; that their wives may be without children, and widows; and that their husbands may be slain, and their young men slain with the sword in battle, 22. And a cry shall be heard out of their houses, how that thou hast suddenly sent a people of war upon them. For they have digged a pit for me, and have laid ropes for my feet. 23. And because thou, O LORD, knowest all their plots against me, to kill me, forgive them not their iniquity, neither blot out their sin from before thee. Let them be overthrown before thee, and deal with them according to thine anger. (Jeremiah) Chapter 19 Destruction of Jerusalem with breaking of the earthen jar prefigured. 1. Thus saith the LORD; Go and buy thee an earthenware jar of the potter, and some of the elders of the people, and of the elders of the priests. 2. And go forth into the valley of Ben-hinnom, which is before the brick gate, and preach there the words which I say unto thee, 3. And say, Hear the word of the LORD, ye kings of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring such calamity upon this place, that whosoever shall hear it, his ears shall ring, 4. Because they have forsaken me, and given this place to a strange god, and have burned incense in it unto other gods, which they knew not, nor their fathers, nor the kings of Judah: and they have made this place full of innocent blood. 5. For they have built high places for Baal, to burn their children unto Baal for burnt offerings, which I commanded them not, neither spake I unto them, neither came it into mine heart. 6. Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that this place shall no more be called Topheth, nor the valley of Ben-hinnom, but the valley of choke. 7. For I will destroy the worship of Judah and Jerusalem of this place, and will cause them to fall by the sword before their enemies, under the hand of them that seek their life; and I will give their dead bodies for meat unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the earth; 8. And I will make this city desolate, and a mockery: and all that pass by shall marvel at all the plague thereof, and mock at it. 9. I will cause them to eat the flesh of their sons and of their daughters, and one shall eat another's flesh in distress and in anguish; and they shall afflict their enemies, and them that seek their life. 10. And thou shalt break the pitcher before the men that went with thee. 11. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; As a potter's vessel is broken, and shall not be whole again; so will I break this people and this city, and they shall be buried in Ethiopia, because there shall be no other place to bury them. 12. Thus will I deal with this place, saith the LORD, and with the inhabitants thereof; and this city shall be as Topheth. 13. And the houses of Jerusalem, and the houses of the kings of Judah, shall be as unclean as the place of Topheth, even all the houses, because they have burned incense upon the housetops unto all the host of heaven, and have offered drink offerings unto other gods. 14. And when Jeremiah was come again from Topheth, whither the LORD had sent him to prophesy, he stood in the court of the LORD'S house, and spake unto all the people: 15. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring upon this city, and upon all the cities thereof, all the evil that I have spoken against them, because they are stiffnecked, and will not hearken unto my words; (Jeremiah) Chapter 20 Jeremiah proclaims captivity in Babylon, laments his ministry and birthday. 1. And when Pashur the son of Immer the priest, which was made ruler in the house of the LORD, heard Jeremiah prophesying these words, 2. And he smote Jeremiah the prophet, and cast him into the vault under the upper gate of Benjamin, which is by the house of the LORD. 3. And it came to pass in the morning, that Pashur drew Jeremiah out of the vault. And Jeremiah said unto him, The LORD calleth thee not Pashur, but Magur round about. 4. For thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will put thee and all thy friends in fear, and they shall fall by the sword of their enemies: thou shalt see it with thine eyes. And I will deliver all Judah into the hand of the king of Babylon; and he shall carry them away to Babylon, and slay them with the sword. 5. And I will deliver into the hand of their enemies all the goods of this city, and all that it hath wrought, and all the jewels, and all the treasures of the kings of Judah; and they shall spoil them, and take them, and bring them to Babylon. 6. And thou, Pashur, shalt go captive with all thy household, and shalt come to Babylon: there shalt thou die, and be buried with all thy friends, to whom thou preachest lies. 7. O Lord, thou hast persuaded me, and I have been persuaded: thou hast been too strong for me, and hast won. But I have become a mockery of it daily, and every man maketh me to scorn. 8. For since I spake, and cried, and preached of the plague and disturbance, the word of the LORD hath become a mockery and a derision unto me daily. 9. Then thought I, Well, I will remember him no more, neither will I preach in his name any more. But it was as a burning fire in my heart, shut up in my bones, that I could not bear it, and would almost have passed away. 10. For I hear how many reproach me, and how many affright me: Hui, sue him! We will sue him, say all my friends and fellows, if we may take advantage of him, and come to his aid, and avenge ourselves on him. 11. But the LORD is with me as a mighty hero: therefore shall my persecutors fall, and not prevail, but shall be greatly put to shame, because they have done so foolishly: for ever shall be their reproach, which shall not be forgotten. 12. And now, O LORD of hosts, which tryest the righteous, and seest the kidneys and the heart, let me see thy vengeance upon them: for I have committed my cause unto thee. 13. Sing unto the LORD, praise the LORD, which delivereth the life of the poor out of the hands of the wicked. 14. Cursed be the day wherein I was born; let the day wherein my mother bare me be unblessed. 15. Cursed be he that brought good tidings unto my father, saying, Thou hast a young son, that he should make him merry. 16. Let that man be as the cities which the LORD hath turned back, and hath not repented him; and let him hear a cry in the morning, and a howling at noon. 17. That thou hadst not killed me in my mother's womb! That my mother had been my grave, and her womb had remained pregnant for ever! 18. Why have I come forth out of my mother's womb, that I should see such sorrow and heartache, and spend my days in shame? (Jeremiah) Chapter 21 From the conquest of the city of Jerusalem and Zedekiah's captivity. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, when Zedekiah the king sent unto him Pashur the son of Malchiah, and Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah the priest, saying: 2. Ask the LORD for us. For Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon contendeth against us, that the LORD will deal with us according to all his wonders, that he may depart from us. 3. And Jeremiah said unto them, Thus saith Zedekiah: 4. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Behold, I will turn back the weapons that are in your hands, that ye may fight against the king of Babylon, and against the Chaldeans that besiege you without the wall, and will gather them together in the midst of the city. 5. And I will fight against you with an outstretched hand, and with a strong arm, and with great wrath, and with fury, and with unmercifulness. 6. And I will smite the inhabitants of this city, both men and beasts, and they shall die by a great pestilence. 7. And afterward, saith the LORD, I will deliver Zedekiah king of Judah, and his servants, and the people that remain in this city from the pestilence, and from the sword, and from the famine, into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of their enemies, and into the hand of them that seek their life; and he shall smite them with the edge of the sword, and there shall be no mercy, neither grace, nor pity. 8. And say unto this people, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I set before you the way of life, and the way of death. 9. Whosoever remaineth in this city shall die by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence: but whosoever shall go out unto the Chaldeans that besiege you, he shall live, and shall keep his life for a prey. 10. For I have set my face against this city for evil, and for no good, saith the LORD. It shall be delivered unto the king of Babylon, that he may burn it with fire. 11. And hear the word of the LORD, ye of the house of the king of Judah. 12. O house of David, thus saith the LORD, Execute judgment in the morning, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the wicked: lest my wrath go forth as a fire, and burn so that no man quench it, because of your wickedness. 13. Behold, saith the LORD, I say unto thee, that dwell in the bottomless pit, in the rock, and in the plain, saying, Who shall assail us, or come into our stronghold? 14. I will punish you, saith the LORD, according to the fruit of your doings: I will kindle a fire in their forest, and it shall devour all that is round about. (Jeremiah) Chapter 22 From the Regency. Punishment of three kings: Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, and Jechaniah. 1. Thus saith the LORD; Go down into the house of the king of Judah, and speak there this word. 2. And say, Hear the word of the LORD, thou king of Judah, which sittest upon the throne of David, both thou, and thy servants, and thy people, which go in unto these gates. 3. Thus saith the LORD; Execute justice and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the wicked; and afflict not the stranger, nor the fatherless, nor the widow; neither do violence to any man, nor shed innocent blood in this place. 4. And if ye do so, then shall enter in at the gates of this house kings that sit on David's throne, both of them in chariots, and on horses, with their servants, and their people. 5. But if ye will not obey these things, I have sworn by myself, saith the LORD, that this house shall be destroyed. 6. For thus saith the LORD concerning the house of the king of Judah, Gilead, thou art the head of Lebanon unto me: what matter, I will make thee a desolation, and the cities without inhabitant? 7. For I have appointed spoilers against thee, every man with his weapons; and they shall cut down thy choice cedars, and cast them into the fire. 8. Then shall many nations pass by before this city, and say one to another, Why hath the LORD dealt so with this great city? 9. And they shall answer, Because they have forsaken the covenant of the LORD their God, and have worshipped other gods, and served them; 10. Weep not for the dead, neither grieve for them: but weep for him that goeth away: for he shall never come again to see his country. 11. For thus saith the LORD concerning Shallum the son of Josiah king of Judah, which is king instead of Josiah his father, which went out from this place; He shall not come again, 12. But shall die in the place whither he is carried captive, and shall see this land no more. 13. Woe unto him that buildeth his house with sins, and his chambers with iniquity, that maketh his neighbour to work for nought, and giveth him not his hire. 14. And he said, Well, I will build me a great house, and large palaces: and he made windows in them, and wainscotted them with cedar, and painted them red. 15. Thinkest thou that thou wilt be king, because thou art clothed with cedars? Did not thy father also eat and drink, and yet keep judgment and righteousness, and prosper? 16. He helped the poor and needy to judgment, and he was well. Is it not so, that this is my right knowledge? saith the LORD. 17. But thine eyes and thine heart are not so, but upon thy covetousness, upon shedding innocent blood, upon sacrilege, and upon oppression. 18. Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah; They shall not lament him, Brother, sister. He shall not be accosted, O lord, O noble one! 19. He shall be buried like an ass, bruised and cast out at the gates of Jerusalem. 20. Yea, go up to Lebanon, and cry, and be heard in Bashan, and cry from Abarim: for all thy lovers are miserably slain. 21. I foretold thee, while it was yet well with thee; but thou saidst: I will not hearken. So hast thou done all thy days, that thou hast not hearkened unto my voice. 22. The wind feedeth all thy shepherds, and thy lovers go in captivity: thou shalt be mocked and confounded for all thy wickedness. 23. Thou that dwellest now in Lebanon, and nestestestest in cedars, how fair shalt thou see when sorrows and woes shall come unto thee, as one in childbearing! 24. As I live, saith the LORD, if Chaniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah were a signet ring upon my right hand, I would break thee off. 25. And deliver them into the hand of them that seek thy life, of whom thou art afraid, even into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of the Chaldeans. 26. And I will drive thee, and thy mother that bare thee, into another country, which is not thy fatherland; and there thou shalt die. 27. And into the land, where they would gladly return with their hearts, they shall not return. 28. What a wretched, despised, rejected man is Chania, an unworthy vessel! Oh, how he is driven away with his seed, and cast into an unknown land! 29. O land, land, land; hear the word of the LORD! 30. Thus saith the LORD; Write unto this man for a corrupt man, a man that shall not prosper all his days. For he shall not prosper, that one of his seed shall sit upon the throne of David, and reign in Judah any more. (Jeremiah) Chapter 23 The evil shepherds and false prophets are described and punished. Christ, the good shepherd and great prophet, promised. 1. Woe unto you shepherds, that destroy and scatter the flock of my pasture! saith the LORD. 2. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel concerning the shepherds that feed my people: Ye have scattered my flock, and cast them out, and have not visited them. Behold, I will punish you for your wickedness, saith the LORD. 3. And I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their fences, and they shall increase and be many. 4. And I will set shepherds over them, which shall feed them; and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, nor be visited, saith the LORD. 5. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise up a righteous seed unto David; and he shall be a king that shall reign well, and do justice and righteousness in the earth. 6. In that day shall Judah be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely. And this shall be his name, that they shall call him: LORD, who is our righteousness. 7. Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said: As the LORD liveth, which brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, 8. But, As the LORD liveth, which brought up the seed of the house of Israel, and brought them out of the land of the north, and out of all the countries whither I had driven them, to dwell in their own land. 9. Against the prophets. My heart wants to break in my body, all my bones tremble; I am like a drunken man and like one reeling from wine before the Lord and before his holy words, 10. That the land is full of adulterers, and that the land standeth in desolation, and is cursed, and the pastures of the wilderness are withered: and their life is evil, and their government is not good. 11. For both prophets and priests are husks, and find also in my house their wickedness, saith the LORD. 12. Therefore their way is as a smooth path in the darkness, whereon they slide and fall. For I will bring evil upon them in the year of their visitation, saith the LORD. 13. For I saw folly in the prophets of Samaria, that they prophesied by Baal, and deceived my people Israel. 14. But with the prophets of Jerusalem I see abominations, how they commit adultery, and deal in lies, and strengthen the wicked, lest any man turn from his wickedness. They are all like Sodom before me, and their people like Gomorrah. 15. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the prophets; Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and water them with gall: for from the prophets of Jerusalem cometh hypocrisy throughout all the land. 16. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you. They deceive you: for they preach the words of their heart, and not of the LORD'S mouth. 17. They say to them that blaspheme me, The LORD hath said, It shall be well with you. And to all that walk after the stinking of their hearts, they say, There shall no evil come upon you. 18. For who hath stood in the council of the LORD, seeing and hearing his word? Who hath heard and heard his word? 19. Behold, the weather of the LORD shall come with fury, and a terrible tempest shall fall upon the head of all the wicked. 20. And the wrath of the LORD shall not abate, until he do and execute that which he hath in mind. Afterward ye shall know it. 21. I sent not the prophets, neither did they run: I spake not unto them, neither did they prophesy. 22. For if they had kept my counsel, and had preached my words unto my people, they would have converted them from their evil nature, and from their evil living. 23. Am not I a God that is near, saith the LORD, and not a God that is far off? 24. Thinkest thou that any man can hide himself secretly, that I should not see him? saith the LORD. Is it not I that fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD. 25. I have heard that the prophets preach and prophesy falsely in my name, and say: I have dreamed, I have dreamed. 26. When will the prophets cease from prophesying falsely, and from prophesying the deceitfulness of their hearts? 27. And will my people forget my name above their dreams, which they preach one to another, as their fathers forgot my name above Baal? 28. A prophet that hath dreams, let him preach dreams: but he that hath my word, let him preach my word aright. How do straw and wheat rhyme together? saith the LORD. 29. Is not my word as a fire, saith the LORD, and as a hammer that breaketh in pieces the rock? 30. Wherefore, behold, I will look unto the prophets, saith the LORD, which steal my word one from another. 31. Behold, I will look unto the prophets, saith the LORD, which speak and speak their own word: He hath spoken it. 32. Behold, I will speak unto them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and preach them, and deceive my people with their lies, and with their loose words, when I have not sent them, neither commanded them, neither are they of any use unto this people, saith the LORD. 33. And when this people, or a prophet, or a priest, shall ask thee, saying, What is the burden of the LORD? thou shalt say unto them, What is the burden? I will cast you down, saith the LORD. 34. And if any prophet, or priest, or people, shall say, This is the burden of the LORD; I will punish him, and his house also. 35. And they shall speak one to another, saying one to another, What answereth the LORD, and what saith the LORD? 36. And call it no more the burden of the LORD: for every man's own word shall be a burden unto him, because ye thus pervert the words of the living God, the LORD of hosts, our God. 37. Therefore thus shall ye say unto the prophet, What answer answereth thee, and what saith the LORD? 38. But because ye say, The burden of the LORD; therefore thus saith the LORD; If ye call this word the burden of the LORD, and I have sent unto you, saying, Ye shall not call it the burden of the LORD, 39. Behold, I will take you away, and cast you out of my sight, and the city which I have given you and your fathers; 40. And I will bring upon you everlasting shame and everlasting reproach, which shall never be forgotten. (Jeremiah) Chapter 24 Face of good and bad figs and what they mean. 1. Behold, the LORD shewed me two baskets of figs, which were set before the temple of the LORD, after that Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away Jechaniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, and the princes of Judah, the carpenters and smiths of Jerusalem, and brought them to Babylon. 2. In the one basket were very good figs, as the first ripe figs are; in the other basket were very bad figs, that they could not be eaten, so bad were they. 3. And the LORD said unto me, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, Figs: the good figs are very good, and the bad figs are very bad, that they cannot be eaten, because they are so bad. 4. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 5. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, As these figs are good, so will I have mercy upon the captives of Judah, whom I have sent forth out of this place into the land of the Chaldeans, 6. And I will look upon them graciously, and will bring them again into this land, and will build them, and not break them down; I will plant them, and not pluck them up. 7. And I will give them an heart to know me, that I am the LORD. And they shall be my people, and I will be their God: for they shall turn unto me with all their heart. 8. But as the evil figs are so evil that they cannot be eaten, saith the LORD, so will I deliver up Zedekiah king of Judah, and his princes, and the remnant that are left in Jerusalem, and the remnant that are left in this land, and they that dwell in the land of Egypt. 9. I will do them evil, and will not suffer them to dwell in any kingdom upon the earth; and they shall be put to shame, and become a proverb, and a fable, and a curse, in all places whither I will cast them. 10. And I will send sword and famine and pestilence among them, until they perish from off the land which I have given them and their fathers. (Jeremiah) Chapter 25 Seventy years of captivity at Babel. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah concerning all the people of Judah in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah (which is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon), 2. Which also Jeremiah the prophet spake unto all the people of Judah, and unto all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying: 3. From the thirteenth year of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah the word of the LORD came unto me unto this day, and I have preached unto you twenty and three years with diligence; but ye would not hear. 4. Even so hath the LORD sent unto you all his servants the prophets diligently: but ye have never hearkened, nor inclined your ears to obey, 5. Saying, Turn ye every man from his wicked way, and from your wickedness; and ye shall dwell in the land which the LORD hath given you, and to your fathers, for ever and ever. 6. Follow not other gods, to serve them, and to worship them; lest ye provoke me to anger with the works of your hands, and I bring evil upon you. 7. But ye would not hearken unto me, saith the LORD, that ye might provoke me to anger by the work of your hands, to your own hurt. 8. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Because ye will not hear my words, 9. Behold, I will send and bring all nations northward, saith the LORD, even Nebuchadnezzar my servant the king of Babylon; and I will bring them upon this land, and upon them that dwell therein, and upon all this people that are round about, and will utterly destroy them, and make them a mockery, and an everlasting desolation. 10. And I will take out all joyful singing, the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride, the voice of the mills, and the light of the lantern, 11. And all this land shall lie desolate and waste. And these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. And these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. 12. And it shall come to pass, when the seventy years are expired, that I will punish the king of Babylon, and all this people, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans; and I will make it an everlasting desolation. 13. So will I bring upon this land all my words which I have spoken against them, even all that is written in this book, which Jeremiah prophesied against all nations. 14. And they also shall serve, though they be great nations, and great kings. So will I recompense them according to their merit, and according to the works of their hands. 15. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel unto me, Take this cup of wine full of wrath out of mine hand, and pour it out unto all the nations to whom I send thee; 16. And they shall drink, and stagger, and be mad before the sword that I will send among them. 17. And I took the cup from the hand of the LORD, and gave to all the nations whither the LORD sent me, 18. To wit, Jerusalem, the cities of Judah, their kings, and their princes, to lie desolate and ruined, and to be a mockery and a curse, as it is this day; 19. Even Pharaoh king of Egypt, and his servants, and his princes, and all his people; 20. To all the countries westward, to all the kings of the land of Uz, to all the kings of the land of Palestine, to Ascalon, and to Gaza, and to Aaron, and to the rest of Ashdod; 21. To them of Edom, to them of Moab, to the children of Ammon; 22. To all the kings of Tyre, to all the kings of Zidon, to the kings of the isles beyond the sea; 23. those of Dedan, those of Thema, those of Bus, and all the princes in the places; 24. To all the kings of Arabia, to all the kings toward the west, that dwell in the wilderness; 25. All the kings of Zimri, all the kings of Elam, all the kings of Media; 26. To all the kings toward the north, both near and far, one with another, and to all the kings upon him that are upon the face of the earth. And king Seshach shall drink after these. 27. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Drink, that ye may be drunken, and drink, and fall down, and not rise up before the sword that I will send among you. 28. And if they will not take the cup from thine hand, and drink, say unto them: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Now drink ye. 29. For, behold, in the city that is called by my name I began to afflict, and ye shall go unpunished? Ye shall not go unpunished: for I will call for a sword upon all them that dwell upon the earth, saith the LORD of hosts. 30. And thou shalt prophesy all these words unto them, and shalt say unto them: The LORD shall roar from on high, and shall cause his thunder to be heard from his holy habitation; he shall roar over his hurdles; he shall sing a song, as the treaders of wine, over all the inhabitants of the land, which shall resound unto the end of the earth. 31. The LORD is right with the heathen, and will execute judgment upon all flesh: he will deliver up the wicked to the sword, saith the LORD. 32. Thus saith the LORD Zeboath; Behold, there shall be a plague from nation to nation, and great weather shall be raised up from the side of the land. 33. Then shall the slain of the LORD lie in that day from the one end of the earth even unto the other end: they shall not be lamented, nor taken up, nor buried, but shall lie in the field, and become dung. 34. Hay therefore, ye shepherds, and cry out; roll yourselves in the ashes, ye mighty over the flock. For the time is here, that ye should be slain, and be scattered, and fall to pieces, as a precious vessel. 35. And the shepherds shall not be able to flee, neither shall the mighty over the flock be able to escape. 36. Then shall the shepherds cry, and the mighty men of the flock shall howl, because the LORD hath spoiled their pasture, 37. And their pastures, which were good, are corrupt before the fierce anger of the LORD. 38. He hath forsaken his tabernacle like a young lion: and their land is destroyed from the wrath of the tyrant, and from his fierce anger. (Jeremiah) Chapter 26 Jeremiah's sermon of repentance, accusation, responsibility and protection. 1. In the beginning of the kingdom of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word from the LORD, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the court of the LORD'S house, and preach unto all the cities of Judah that come in to worship in the house of the LORD all the words which I commanded thee to say unto them, and do nothing of them, 3. Whether they will hear, and be converted every man from his wickedness; that I also may repent of the evil which I intend to do them, because of their wickedness. 4. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; Will ye not obey me, to walk in my law which I have set before you? 5. That ye might hearken unto the words of my servants the prophets, whom I have always sent unto you, and ye would not hearken, 6. And I will make this house like Shiloh, and will make that city a curse to all the nations of the earth. 7. And the priests and the prophets and all the people heard Jeremiah speak these words in the house of the LORD, 8. And when Jeremiah had spoken all that the LORD commanded him to speak unto all the people, the priests, and the prophets, and all the people, took him, and said: Thou must die! 9. Why mayest thou prophesy in the name of the LORD, saying, This house shall be as Shiloh, and this city shall be desolate, and none shall dwell therein? And all the people gathered themselves together against Jeremiah in the house of the LORD. 10. And when the princes of Judah heard these things, they went up out of the king's house into the house of the LORD, and sat down before the new gate of the LORD. 11. And the priests and the prophets said before the princes and all the people, This man is guilty of death: for he hath prophesied against this city, as ye have heard with your ears. 12. And Jeremiah said unto all the princes, and to all the people, The LORD hath sent me to prophesy against this house, and against this city, all these things which ye have heard. 13. Therefore amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the LORD your God; and the LORD will repent of the evil which he hath spoken against you. 14. Behold, I am in your hands; ye may do with me as seemeth you right and good. 15. But know ye, where ye kill me, that ye shall bring innocent blood upon yourselves, upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof. For verily the LORD hath sent me unto you, to speak all these things in your ears. 16. Then said the princes and all the people unto the priests and prophets: This man is not guilty of death: for he hath spoken unto us in the name of the LORD our God. 17. And some of the elders of the land arose, and said unto all the multitude of the people: 18. In the days of Hezekiah king of Judah there was a prophet, Micah of Mareshah, which said unto all the people of Judah, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Zion shall be ploughed as a field, and Jerusalem shall become a heap of stones, and the mountain of the house of the LORD a wild wood. 19. Neither did Hezekiah king of Judah, nor all Judah, put him to death for this cause: for they feared the LORD, and prayed before the LORD. Then also the LORD repented of the evil which he had spoken against them: therefore do we very evil against our souls: 20. And there was one that prophesied in the name of the LORD, Uriah the son of Shemaiah, of Kiriathjearim. He prophesied against this city, and against this land, as did Jeremiah. 21. And when king Jehoiakim, and all his mighty men, and the princes, heard his words, the king would have put him to death. And Uriah heard of it, and was afraid, and fled, and went into Egypt. 22. But king Jehoiakim sent men into Egypt, Elnathan the son of Achbor, and others with him. 23. And they brought him out of Egypt, and brought him unto king Jehoiakim; and he slew him with the sword, and buried his body among the common people. 24. So the hand of Ahikam the son of Shaphan was with Jeremiah, that he came not into the hand of the people, that they slew him. (Jeremiah) Chapter 27 Judah and its neighbors must come under the yoke of the king of Babylon. 1. In the beginning of the kingdom of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word from the LORD unto Jeremiah, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD unto me, Make thee a yoke, and hang it upon thy neck. 3. And send it unto the king of Edom, and to the king of Moab, and to the king of the children of Ammon, and to the king of Tyre, and to the king of Zidon, by the messengers that came to Zedekiah king of Judah to Jerusalem. 4. And command them to say unto their masters, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Thus shall ye say unto your masters: 5. I have made the earth, and man and beast that are upon the earth, by my great power and outstretched arm, and give them to whom I will. 6. And now I have given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon my servant, and have given him the wild beasts of the field also to serve him. 7. And all nations shall serve him, and his son, and his son's son, until the time of his land also come: for many nations and great kings shall serve him. 8. And what people and kingdom soever will not serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and whoever will not put his neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon, such a people will I punish with the sword; famine and pestilence, saith the LORD, until I destroy them by his hand. 9. Obey not therefore your prophets, diviners, interpreters of dreams, diviners of days, and sorcerers, which say unto you, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon. 10. For they prophesy falsely unto you, that they may take you far from your land, and I will cast you out, and ye shall perish. 11. For what people soever shall yield up their necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and shall serve him, them will I leave in their own land, to build it, and to inhabit it, saith the LORD. 12. And I spake all these things unto Zedekiah king of Judah, saying, Put your neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and ye shall live. 13. Why will ye die, thou and thy people, by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence? as the LORD hath said concerning the people that will not serve the king of Babylon. 14. Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets which say unto you, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon. For they prophesy falsely unto you, 15. And I have not sent them, saith the LORD; but they prophesy falsely in my name, that I may cast you out, and ye perish with the prophets that prophesy unto you. 16. And I spake unto the priests, and unto all this people, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Hearken not unto the words of your prophets which prophesy unto you, saying, Behold, the vessels of the house of the LORD shall soon come again from Babylon. For they prophesy falsely unto you. 17. Obey them not, but serve the king of Babylon, and ye shall live. Why should this city become a desolation? 18. But if they be prophets, and if they have the word of the LORD, let them pray the LORD of hosts that the rest of the vessels which are in the house of the LORD, and in the house of the king of Judah, and in Jerusalem, be not brought also to Babylon. 19. For thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the pillars, and concerning the sea, and concerning the stalls, and concerning the vessels that are left in this city, 20. Which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon took not away, when he carried away Jechaniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah from Jerusalem to Babylon, and all the princes of Judah and Jerusalem; 21. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, concerning the vessels that are left in the house of the LORD, and in the house of the king of Judah, and in Jerusalem: 22. And they shall be brought to Babylon, and shall dwell there until the day that I visit them, saith the LORD, and bring them up again into this place. (Jeremiah) Chapter 28 Jeremiah has a yoke of iron; indicates certain death to Hananiah, the false prophet. 1. And in the same year, in the beginning of the kingdom of Zedekiah king of Judah, in the fifth month of the fourth year, Hananiah the son of Azur, a prophet of Gibeon, spake unto me in the house of the LORD, in the presence of the priests and of all the people, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have broken the yoke of the king of Babylon; 3. And before two years be expired, I will bring again into this place all the vessels of the house of the LORD, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon took out of this place, and brought them to Babylon. 4. Moreover I will bring again to this place Jechaniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, and all the captives of Judah that are carried to Babylon, saith the LORD; for I will break the yoke of the king of Babylon. 5. And Jeremiah the prophet spake unto Hananiah the prophet in the presence of the priests, and of all the people that were in the house of the LORD, 6. And said, Verily the LORD do so. Let the LORD confirm thy word, which thou hast spoken, to bring again the vessels out of the house of the LORD of Babylon into this place, and all the captives. 7. But hear also this word, which I speak in thine ears, and in the ears of all the people: 8. The prophets that were before me, and before thee, of old time, have prophesied against many countries, and against great kingdoms, of war, and of calamity, and of pestilence; 9. But if a prophet prophesy peace, he shall be known whether the LORD hath truly sent him, when his word shall be fulfilled. 10. Then Hananiah the prophet took the yoke from off the neck of Jeremiah the prophet, and brake it. 11. And Hananiah said in the presence of all the people, Thus saith the LORD; Likewise will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon before two years perish, from off the neck of all nations. And Jeremiah the prophet went his way. 12. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, after that Hananiah the prophet had broken the yoke from off the neck of Jeremiah the prophet, saying: 13. Go and tell Hananiah, Thus saith the LORD, Thou hast broken the yoke of wood; now therefore make a yoke of iron in its stead. 14. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they should serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and serve him: for I have given him the wild beasts also. 15. And Jeremiah the prophet said unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah. The LORD hath not sent thee, and thou hast made this people to trust in lies. 16. Therefore thus saith the LORD. Behold, I will take thee from the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die: for thou hast turned them away from the LORD with thy speech. 17. So Hananiah the prophet died in the seventh month of the same year. (Jeremiah) Chapter 29 Jeremiah's letter to the captive Jews at Babel, telling them how they should behave. 1. These are the words of the letter which Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem unto the remnant of the ancients that were carried away, and to the priests, and to the prophets, and to all the people which Nebuchadnezzar had carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon. 2. After that king Jechaniah and the queen were departed, with the officers and princes of Judah and Jerusalem, and the carpenters and smiths that were at Jerusalem, 3. By Eleazah the son of Shaphan, and Gemariah the son of Hilkiah, whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent to Babylon unto Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, saying: 4. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, unto all the captives whom I have brought away from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5. Build houses, and dwell therein: plant gardens, and eat the fruit thereof; 6. Take wives, and beget sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give husbands to your daughters, that they may beget sons and daughters: multiply yourselves there, that ye be not few. 7. Seek the good of the city whither I have led you away, and pray unto the LORD for it: for if it prosper, it prospereth you also. 8. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Let not the prophets that are with you, nor the diviners, deceive you, neither hearken ye to your dreams which dream you; 9. For they prophesy falsely unto you in my name. I have not sent them, saith the LORD. 10. For thus saith the LORD; When seventy years are expired in Babylon, then will I visit you, and will raise up my gracious word against you, and bring you again into this place. 11. For I know the thoughts that I have toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of sorrow; that I may give you the end that ye wait for. 12. And ye shall call upon me, and go and entreat me, and I will hear you. 13. Ye shall seek me, and ye shall find me. For if ye shall seek me with all your heart, 14. Then will I be found of you, saith the LORD, and will turn away your captivity, and gather you out of all nations, and out of all places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and will bring you again into this place, from whence I sent you away. 15. For ye think that the LORD hath raised up prophets unto you at Babylon. 16. For thus saith the LORD concerning the king that sitteth upon David's throne, and concerning all the people that dwell in this city, even concerning your brethren that are not gone forth captive with you; 17. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will send sword and famine and pestilence among them, and will deal with them as with the evil figs, because one is afraid to eat; 18. And I will go after them with the sword, and with the famine, and with the pestilence: and I will not suffer them to dwell in any kingdom upon the earth; and they shall be a curse, and a wonder, and a scorn, and a derision, among all nations, whither I will cast them out, 19. Because they hearkened not unto my words, saith the LORD, who have always sent unto you my servants the prophets; but ye would not hearken, saith the LORD. 20. But all ye that are carried away captives, whom I have sent away from Jerusalem to Babylon, hear the word of the LORD. 21. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, against Ahab the son of Colaiah, and against Zedekiah the son of Maaseiah, which prophesy falsely unto you in my name: Behold, I will deliver them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and he shall smite them before your eyes, 22. And they shall make a curse of them among all the captives of Judah that are at Babylon, saying, The LORD do unto thee as Zedekiah and Ahab did, whom the king of Babylon roasted with fire, 23. Because they committed folly in Israel, and committed adultery with other women, and preached falsely in my name, which I commanded them not. These things know I, and bear witness, saith the LORD. 24. And against Shemaiah of Nehalam shalt thou say: 25. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Because thou hast sent letters by thy name unto all the people that are at Jerusalem, and unto Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah the priest, and unto all the priests, saying: 26: The LORD hath made thee a priest instead of Jehoiada the priest, to be overseers in the house of the LORD over all madmen and diviners, to put them in prison and in stocks. 27. Why then dost thou not punish Jeremiah of Anathoth, who prophesied unto you? 28. Because he sent unto us to Babylon, saying, It shall be for a long time: build ye houses to dwell in, and plant gardens to eat the fruit thereof. 29. For Zephaniah the priest had read the same epistle, and had caused Jeremiah the prophet to hear it. 30. Therefore the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying: 31. Send unto all the captives, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD against Shemaiah of Nehalam, Because Shemaiah knoweth you, and I sent him not, and ye trust in lies, 32. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will visit Shemaiah of Nehalam with his seed, and none of his shall remain among this people, and shall not see the good that I will do unto my people, saith the LORD: for he hath turned them away from the LORD with his speech. (Jeremiah) Chapter 30 Promise from the Jewish people in the last days of the New Covenant. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD: 2. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Write thee all the words that I speak unto thee in a book. 3. For, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will turn again the prison of my people, both of Israel and Judah, saith the LORD; and I will bring them again into the land which I gave unto their fathers, that they may possess it. 4. Now these are the words which the LORD speaketh concerning Israel and Judah. 5. For thus saith the LORD, We hear a cry of terror; there is fear, and no peace. 6. But search ye, and see whether a man's image bear? How is it then that I see all men with their hands upon their thighs, as women in childbearing, and all their faces pale? 7. For it is a great day, and the like of it hath not been, and there is a time of trouble in Jacob: yet shall he be delivered out of it. 8. And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD of hosts, that I will break his yoke from off thy neck, and will loose thy bands, and he shall no more serve strangers therein, 9. But to the LORD their God, and to David their king, whom I will raise up unto them. 10. Therefore fear not, O my servant Jacob, saith the LORD; neither be dismayed, O Israel. For, behold, I will save thee out of far countries, and thy seed out of the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and live in peace, and be satisfied; and none shall affright him. 11. For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to help thee. For I will make an end of all nations, whither I have scattered thee: but I will not make an end of thee: but I will chasten thee with measures, that thou hold not thyself innocent. 12. For thus saith the LORD; Thy hurt is desperately grievous, and thy wounds are incurable. 13. Thine affair hath no man to bind it up: no man can heal thee. 14. All thy lovers forget thee, and ask nothing of thee. I have smitten thee, as I smite an enemy, With ruthless distemper for thy great iniquity, And for thy strong sins. 15. Why cryest thou over thy hurt, and over thy desperately wicked pain? For I have done these things unto thee for thy great iniquity, and for thy great sins. 16. Therefore all they that devoured thee shall be devoured, and all they that afflicted thee shall be taken captive, and they that robbed thee shall be robbed, and they that plundered thee shall be plundered. 17. But I will restore thee, and heal thy wounds, saith the LORD; because thou art called the outcast, and Zion, whom no man inquireth after. 18. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will turn the prison of Jacob's tabernacles, and have mercy upon his habitation; and the city shall be built again upon her hills, and the temple shall stand after his manner. 19. And from thence shall go forth songs of praise and joy: for I will increase them, and not diminish them; I will make them glorious, and not small. 20. Their sons shall be as before, and their congregation shall prosper before me: for I will punish all them that afflict them. 21. And their ruler shall come out of them, and their sovereign shall go forth from them, and he shall draw near unto me: for who is he that draweth near unto me with a willing heart? saith the LORD. 22. And ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. 23. Behold, the weather of the LORD shall come with fury; a terrible tempest shall fall upon the head of the wicked. 24. For the fierce anger of the LORD shall not abate, until he do and execute that which is in his mind. In the last time ye shall know these things. (Jeremiah) Chapter 31 More distant prophecy of the salvation yet to come for the Jewish people. 1. In that day, saith the LORD, will I be God to all the families of Israel, and they shall be my people. 2. Thus saith the LORD; The remnant of the sword have found mercy in the wilderness: Israel goeth to his rest. 3. The LORD hath appeared unto me afar off, saying, I have loved thee evermore; therefore out of my goodness have I drawn thee unto me. 4. Now therefore, I will build thee again, and thou shalt be called built. Thou virgin Israel, thou shalt yet make merry, and go forth to the dance. 5. Again, thou shalt plant vineyards in the mountains of Samaria: they shall plant, and whistle for them. 6. For the time shall yet come, that the keepers of mount Ephraim shall cry: Come, and let us go up to Zion unto the LORD our God. 7. For thus saith the LORD, Shout for joy over Jacob, and shout for joy over the head of the Gentiles; shout aloud, and shout, and say, O LORD, help thy people, the remnant of Israel. 8. Behold, I will bring them out of the land of the north, and gather them from the ends of the earth, both blind, and lame, and with child, and women with child, and they shall return with a great multitude. 9. They shall come weeping and praying, and I will guide them: I will lead them by the rivers of water by a rough way, and they shall not stumble: for I am the father of Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn son. 10. Hear ye, O ye Gentiles, the word of the LORD, and proclaim it abroad in the isles, saying, He that scattered Israel will gather them again, and will shepherd them as a shepherd shepherds his flock. 11. For the LORD will redeem Jacob, and deliver him out of the hand of the mighty. 12. And they shall come and rejoice in the high places of Zion, and shall heap themselves to the gifts of the LORD, even to corn, and wine, and oil, and young sheep, and oxen: and their soul shall be as a garden of waters, and shall be troubled no more. 13. Then shall the virgins rejoice in the dance, and the young men, and the old men together. For I will turn their mourning into joy, and comfort them, and make them glad after their affliction. 14. And I will fill the heart of the priests with joy, and my people shall have abundance of my gifts, saith the LORD. 15. Thus saith the LORD; A voice of mourning is heard, and bitter weeping in the high places: Rachel weepeth over her children, and will not be comforted over her children; for it is finished with them. 16. But thus saith the LORD; Cease thy crying, and thy weeping, and the tears of thine eyes: for thy labour shall be well rewarded, saith the LORD. They shall come again out of the land of the. Enemy. 17. And thy seed have much good to wait for, saith the LORD; for thy children shall return into their border. 18. I have heard the lamentation of Ephraim, Thou hast chastened me, and I am chastened like a horny calf. Turn thou me, and I shall be turned: for thou, O LORD, art my God. 19. When I was converted, I repented: for after that I was wrought, I smote myself on the hip. For I am ashamed, and stand in shame: for I have suffered the scorn of my youth. 20. Is not Ephraim my dear son, and my trusty child? For I remember the things which I spake unto him: therefore my heart breaketh against him, that I should have mercy upon him, saith the LORD. 21. Set thee up grave-marks, set thee mourning-marks, and set thy heart upon the highway that I have trodden. Return, O virgin Israel; Return to these thy cities! 22. How long wilt thou go astray, thou apostate daughter? For the LORD shall create a new thing in the land: the woman shall compass the man about. 23. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; They shall speak this word again in the land of Judah, and in the cities thereof, when I turn their captivity: The LORD bless thee, O habitation of righteousness, O holy mountain. 24. And Judah and all her cities shall dwell therein, and the husbandmen, and they that go about with flocks. 25. For I will refresh the weary soul, and the troubled soul. 26. Therefore I woke up and looked up and slept so softly. 27. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will seed the house of Israel, and the house of Judah, both man and beast. 28. And as I have watched over them to pluck up, and to break down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them to build, and to plant, saith the LORD. 29. In that day it shall no more be said, The fathers have eaten herbs, and the children's teeth are blunted, 30. But every man shall die for his iniquity: and every man that eateth herbs shall have his teeth dulled. 31. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah, 32. Not as the covenant which I made with their fathers, when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, which covenant they kept not, and I constrained them, saith the LORD, 33. But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after that time, saith the LORD; I will put my law in their hearts, and write it in their minds; and they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 34. And no man shall teach another, nor brother another, saying, Know the LORD: but they shall all know me, both small and great, saith the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and will remember their sin no more. 35. Thus saith the LORD, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the moon and the stars for a light by night, according to their courses; which maketh the sea to roar with the waves thereof; O LORD of hosts is his name: 36. When these ordinances depart from before me, saith the LORD, then shall the seed of Israel also cease, that they be no more a nation before me for ever. 37. Thus saith the LORD; If it be possible to measure the heavens above, and to search the foundations of the earth, I will also reject all the seed of Israel for all that they do, saith the LORD. 38. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the city of the LORD shall be built from the tower of Hananeel unto the gate of the river. 39. And the line shall go forth beside it unto the hill. Gareb, and turn toward Gaath. 40. And all the valley of the dead bodies, and of the ashes, and all the field, unto the brook Kidron, unto the corner of the horse gate eastward, shall be holy unto the LORD; it shall never be broken up, nor cut down. (Jeremiah) Chapter 32 Jeremiah buys a field from Babylon as a sign of the Second Coming. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD in the tenth year of Zedekiah king of Judah, which is the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar. 2. Then the army of the king of Babylon besieged Jerusalem. But Jeremiah the prophet lay captive in the court of the prison of the house of the king of Judah, 3. When Zedekiah king of Judah had shut him up, he said, Wherefore prophesyest thou, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will deliver this city into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall take it, 4. And Zedekiah king of Judah shall not escape from the Chaldeans: but I will deliver him into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall speak unto him by word of mouth, and he shall see him with his eyes; 5. And he shall bring Zedekiah to Babylon, and there shall he dwell, until I visit him, saith the LORD: for though ye fight against the Chaldeans, ye shall not prosper. 6. And Jeremiah said, The word of the LORD is come unto me, saying: 7. Behold, Hanameel the son of Shallum thy cousin cometh unto thee, and shall say, Thou shalt buy my field at Anathoth: for thou hast the next right hand to buy it. 8. So Hanameel my cousin's son came unto me, as the LORD had said, unto the court of the prison, and said unto me, Buy my field which is in Anathoth, which is in the land of Benjamin: for thou hast the right of inheritance, and thou art next unto me: buy it. Then I knew that it was the word of the LORD, 9. And he bought the field of Hanameel my cousin's son in Anathoth, and weighed him the money, seven shekels and ten shekels of silver, 10. And he wrote a letter, and sealed it, and took witnesses thereto, and weighed the money in the balances. 11. And he took unto me the bill of sale sealed according to law and custom, and an open copy. 12. And he gave the bill of sale unto Baruch the son of Neriah the son of Mahaseiah, in the presence of Hanameel my cousin, and of the witnesses that were written in the bill of sale, and of all the Jews that dwelt in the court of the prison, 13. and commanded Baruch before their eyes, saying: 14. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Take these letters, the sealed bill of sale, with this open copy, and put them in an earthen vessel, that they may remain long. 15. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; They shall yet buy houses, and fields, and vineyards, in this land. 16. And when I had given the bill of sale unto Baruch the son of Neriah, I prayed unto the LORD, saying: 17. O Lord GOD, behold, thou hast made heaven and earth by thy great power, and by thy outstretched arm; and there is no thing impossible in thy sight; 18. Thou that hast benefited many thousands, and hast recompensed the iniquity of the fathers in the bosom of their children after them, thou great and mighty God: O LORD of hosts is thy name; 19. Great in counsel, and mighty in deed: and thine eyes are open unto all the ways of the children of men, to give every man according to his way, and according to the fruit of his doings; 20. Who did signs and wonders in the land of Egypt unto this day, both to Israel and to man, and made thee a name, as it is this day, 21. And brought thy people Israel out of the land of Egypt by signs and wonders, by a mighty hand, and by an outstretched arm, and by great terror. 22. And thou gavest them this land, which thou swarest unto their fathers to give them, a land flowing with milk and honey, 23. And when they came in, and had it, they hearkened not unto thy voice, neither walked they according to thy law; and all things whatsoever thou commandedst them to do, they left off: wherefore thou didst cause all these calamities to befall them: 24. Behold, this city is besieged, and it must be taken, and delivered into the hands of the Chaldeans that fight against it, from the sword, and from the famine, and from the pestilence: and as thou hast said, so it shall be, so thou shalt see; 25. And thou, O Lord, sayest unto me, Buy thou a field for money, and take witnesses unto it, when the city is given into the hand of the Chaldeans? 26. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying: 27. Behold, I the LORD am a God of all flesh. Should anything be impossible for me? 28. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I give this city into the hand of the Chaldeans, and into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and he shall take it. 29. And the Chaldeans that fight against this city shall come in, and set it on fire, and burn it, and the houses thereof, because they have burned incense upon the housetops unto Baal, and offered drink offerings unto other gods, to provoke me to anger. 30. For the children of Israel and the children of Judah have done evil in my sight from their youth, and the children of Israel have provoked me to anger by the work of their hands, saith the LORD. 31. For from the time that this city was built unto this day it hath made me angry and fierce, that I should put it out of my sight. 32. Because of all the wickedness of the children of Israel and the children of Judah, which they have done to provoke me to anger. They, their kings, and their princes, and their priests, and their prophets, and they that dwell in Judah and Jerusalem, 33. Have turned their backs unto me, and not their faces, though I taught them always: but they would not hearken, nor amend. 34. For this cause have they put their abominations in the house which is named of me, to defile it, 35. And they have built the high places of Baal in the valley of Ben-hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters unto Moloch, whereof I commanded them not: and it never came into my mind that they should do such abominations, that they might cause Judah to sin. 36. And now therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel concerning this city, of which ye say that it shall be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon for the sword, and for the famine, and for the pestilence: 37. Behold, I will gather them out of all the countries whither I have driven them by my great wrath, and by my fury, and by my mercilessness; and I will bring them again into this place, and they shall dwell safely. 38. And they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 39. And I will give them one heart and one nature, and they shall fear me all the days of their life; that it may be well with them, and with their children after them. 40. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not cease to do them good; and I will put my fear in their hearts, and they shall not depart from me. 41. And it shall be my delight to do them good; and I will plant them in this land, faithfully, with all my heart and with all my soul. 42. For thus saith the LORD; As I have brought upon this people all this great evil, so will I bring upon them all the good that I have spoken unto them. 43. And the land shall be bought yet in this land, which ye say shall be desolate, that neither man nor beast shall dwell therein; and it shall be given into the hand of the Chaldeans. 44. Nevertheless they shall buy fields for money, and shall certify them, and seal them, and testify them, in the land of Benjamin, and round about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah, and in the cities of the mountains, and in the cities of the valley, and in the cities of the south. For I will turn away their prison, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah) Chapter 33 Redemption from the captivity of Babylon promised Christ and his kingdom. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah the second time, while he was yet shut up in the court of the prison, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD, which maketh, and doeth, and establisheth these things: the LORD is his name: 3. Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. 4. For thus saith the LORD God of Israel concerning the houses of this city, and concerning the houses of the kings of Judah, which are broken down, to make a stronghold for a defence, 5. And of them that come in to fight against the Chaldeans, to fill them with dead bodies, which I will smite in my wrath and my fury: for I have hid my face from this city because of all their wickedness: 6. Behold, I will heal them, and make them whole, and will grant them of prayer peace and faithfulness. 7. For I will turn the prison of Judah and the prison of Israel, and will build them as at the beginning; 8. And I will cleanse them from all iniquity, because they have sinned against me; and I will forgive them all iniquity, because they have sinned and transgressed against me. 9. And this shall be unto me a joyful name, and glory, and honour, among all the heathen of the earth, when they shall hear all the good that I do unto them. And they shall marvel and be astonished at all the good things, and at all the peace which I will give them. 10. Thus saith the LORD; In this place, of which ye say, It is desolate; because there remaineth neither people nor cattle in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, which are desolate, that there is neither people, nor people, nor cattle therein, 11. Nevertheless the voice of joy and gladness shall be heard again, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, and the voice of them that saw: Give thanks unto the LORD of hosts, because he is gracious, and doeth good continually: and of them that bring peace offerings unto the house of the LORD. For I will turn the land of the prison as at the first, saith the LORD. 12. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In this place, which is desolate, that neither men nor beasts are therein, and in all the cities thereof, shall be shepherds' houses again, feeding flocks, 13. Both in the cities of the mountains, and in the cities of the valley, and in the cities of the south, in the land of Benjamin, and about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah: yet again the flocks shall be numbered going out and coming in, saith the LORD. 14. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will bring again the gracious word, which I spake unto the house of Israel and to the house of Judah. 15. In those days, and in that time, will I raise up a righteous increase unto David; and he shall be a king that shall reign iniquitously, and shall execute judgment and righteousness upon the earth. 16. In that day shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: and he shall be called: The LORD our righteousness. 17. For thus saith the LORD; There shall never fail, one of David shall sit upon the throne of the house of Israel. 18. And there shall be no lack of priests and Levites before me for ever, to offer burnt offerings, and to burn meat offerings, and to slay sacrifices for ever. 19. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying: 20: Thus saith the LORD; When my covenant shall cease from day and night, that there be not day and night in his days, 21. My covenant also shall cease from David my servant, that he have not a son to be king upon his throne, and from the Levites and the priests my servants. 22. As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, neither the sand of the sea measured: so will I multiply the seed of David my servant, and the Levites that minister unto me. 23. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying: 24. Hast thou not seen what this people say, saying, The LORD also hath rejected the two families which he chose, and they have blasphemed my people, as though they were no more my people? 25. Thus saith the LORD; I will not keep my covenant of day and night, nor the ordinance of heaven and earth, 26. Then will I also reject the seed of Jacob, and David my servant, that I take not of their seed, which have dominion over the seed of Abraham, and over Isaac, and over Jacob. For I will turn away their prison, and have mercy upon them. (Jeremiah) Chapter 34 Zedekiah's and his subjects' imprisonment and punishments for breaking the year of liberty 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and all his host, and all the kingdoms of the earth that were under his power, and all the nations, fought against Jerusalem, and against all her cities, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Go and tell Zedekiah king of Judah, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will deliver this city into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall burn it with fire. 3. And thou shalt not escape out of his hand, but shalt be taken, and delivered into his hand, and shalt see him with thine eyes, and shalt speak unto him by word of mouth, and shalt come to Babylon. 4. Hear therefore, O Zedekiah, king of Judah, the word of the LORD. Thus saith the LORD concerning thee, Thou shalt not die by the sword. 5. But thou shalt die in peace. And as they burned against thy fathers, the former kings that were before thee, so shall they burn against thee, and lament thee, saying, Alas, Lord! For I have spoken it, saith the LORD. 6. And Jeremiah the prophet spake all these words unto Zedekiah king of Judah at Jerusalem, 7. When the army of the king of Babylon was already fighting against Jerusalem, and against all the rest of the cities of Judah, even against Lachish and Azekah: for these, being the strong cities, were yet left among the cities of Judah. 8. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, after that king Zedekiah had made a covenant with all the people of Jerusalem, to proclaim a year of liberty, 9. That every man should free his manservant, and every man his maidservant, both of the male and of the female Eberians; that no Jew should hold any of them in bondage. 10. And all the princes and all the people that had made the covenant obeyed, that every man should deliver his manservant and his maidservant, and hold them no more in bondage; and they delivered them up. 11. But afterward they turned again, and took the bondmen and bondwomen, whom they had let go, and compelled them to be bondmen and bondwomen. 12. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: 13. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I made a covenant with your fathers, when I brought them up out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, saying: 14. And it shall come to pass, when seven years are expired, that every man shall let his brother go free, who is an Eberian, and hath sold himself unto him, and served him six years. But your fathers hearkened not unto me, neither inclined their ears. 15. So ye have repented this day, and have done that which was right in mine eyes, in proclaiming a year of rest every man for his neighbour, and have made a covenant before me in the house which is called by my name. 16. But ye are turned back, and have profaned my name; and every man shall recover his manservant and his maidservant, whom ye had released to be his own, and now compel them to be your manservants and your maidservants. 17. Therefore thus saith the LORD: Ye will not hearken unto me, to proclaim a year of liberty every man to his brother, and to his neighbour: behold, I proclaim, saith the LORD, a year of liberty unto you for the sword, and for the pestilence, and for the famine; and I will not suffer you to abide in any kingdom upon the earth. 18. And I will make the men that transgress my covenant, and that keep not the words of the covenant which they made before me, as the calf which they divided in two, and passed between the parts, 19. The princes of Judah, and the princes of Jerusalem, and the eunuchs, and the priests, and all the people of the land, which were passed between the pieces of the calf. 20. And I will deliver them into the hand of their enemies, and of them that seek their life; and their dead bodies shall be meat for the fowls of the air, and for the beasts of the earth. 21. And Zedekiah king of Judah, and his princes, will I deliver into the hand of their enemies, and of them that seek their lives, and into the hand of the host of the king of Babylon, which are now departed from you. 22. For, behold, I will command them, saith the LORD, and will bring them again before this city, and they shall fight against it, and win it, and burn it with fire; and I will lay waste the cities of Judah, and none shall dwell there. (Jeremiah) Chapter 35 Of the Rechabite obedience and the Jewish people disobedience. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, saying: 2. Go into the house of the Rechabites, and speak unto them, and bring them into the house of the LORD in the chapel, and give them wine. 3. And I took Jazaniah the son of Jeremiah the son of Habaziniah, and his brethren, and all his sons, and all the house of Rechab. 4. And brought them into the house of the LORD, into the chapel of the children of Hanan the son of Jegdaliah, the man of God, which is by the prince's chapel, above the chapel of Maaseiah the son of Shallum, the keeper of the gate. 5. And I set before the children of the house of Rechab, cups full of wine, and bowls, and said unto them: Drink wine! 6. And they answered: We drink no wine: for Jonadab the son of Rechab our father hath commanded us, saying, Ye and your children shall never drink wine. 7. And build no house, nor sow seed, nor plant a vineyard, nor have any: but dwell in tents all your days, that ye may live long in the land wherein ye sojourn. 8. So we have obeyed the voice of Jonadab our father, the son of Rechab, in all that he commanded us, that we should drink no wine all the days of our life, neither we, nor our wives, nor our sons, nor our daughters, 9. Neither build we houses to dwell in, neither have we vineyards, nor fields, nor seed, 10. But dwell in tabernacles, and obey, and do all things, as our father Jonadab commanded. 11. And when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, we said: Come, and let us go up to Jerusalem before the army of the Chaldeans and the Syrians: and we abode at Jerusalem. 12. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying: 13. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Go and say unto them of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Will ye not amend yourselves, that ye may hearken unto my words? saith the LORD. 14. The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, which he commanded his children that they should not drink wine, are kept: and they drink no wine unto this day, because they obeyed their father's commandment. I have always preached to you, but you have not obeyed me. 15. Even so have I always sent unto you all my servants the prophets, saying, Turn ye every man from his evil way, and amend your ways, and follow not other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given you and your fathers. But ye would not incline your ears, nor obey me, 16. But the children of Jonadab the son of Rechab have kept their father's commandment, which he commanded them. But this people will not obey me. 17. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, and the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, all the evil that I have spoken against them, because I have spoken unto them, and they will not hear, I have called, and they will not answer me. 18. And Jeremiah said unto the house of the Rechabites, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Because ye have obeyed the commandment of Jonadab your father, and kept all his commandments, and done all that he commanded you, 19. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; There shall never fail Jonadab the son of Rechab; one of his own shall stand before me at all times. (Jeremiah) Chapter 36 Jeremiah's sermons are torn up, burned, and rewritten. 1. In the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: 2. Take a book, and write therein all the words which I have spoken unto thee concerning Israel, and concerning Judah, and concerning all nations, from the time that I spake unto thee, even from the days of Josiah even unto this day, 3. Whether it may be that the house of Judah, hearing all the evil that I intend to do unto them, will turn every man from his wickedness, that I may forgive them their iniquity and their sin. 4. Then called Jeremiah Baruch the son of Neriah. And Baruch the same wrote in a book out of the mouth of Jeremiah all the sayings of the LORD, which he spake unto him. 5. And Jeremiah commanded Baruch, saying: I am a prisoner, that I cannot enter into the house of the LORD. 6. And thou shalt go in, and read the book wherein thou hast written the words of the LORD out of my mouth, before the people in the house of the LORD at the feast: and thou shalt read them also in the ears of all Judah, which come in out of their cities, 7. Whether they would humble themselves with prayer before the LORD, and turn every man from his evil way: for great is the wrath and fury of which the LORD hath spoken against this people. 8. And Baruch the son of Neriah did according to all that Jeremiah the prophet commanded him, to read the words of the LORD out of the book in the house of the LORD. 9. And it came to pass in the fifth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, in the ninth month, that they proclaimed a fast before the LORD unto all the people of Jerusalem, and to all the people that come out of the cities of Judah unto Jerusalem. 10. And Baruch read out of the book the words of Jeremiah in the house of the LORD, in the chapel of Gemariah the son of Shaphan the chancellor, in the upper court before the new gate of the house of the LORD, before all the people. 11. Now when Micaiah the son of Gemariah the son of Shaphan had heard all the words of the LORD out of the book, 12. And he went down into the king's house, that they might be their own: and now compel them to be your servants and your handmaids. 17. Therefore thus saith the LORD: Ye will not hearken unto me, to proclaim a year of liberty every man to his brother, and to his neighbour: behold, I proclaim, saith the LORD, a year of liberty unto you for the sword, and for the pestilence, and for the famine; and I will not suffer you to abide in any kingdom upon the earth. 18. And I will make the men that transgress my covenant, and that keep not the words of the covenant which they made before me, as the calf which they divided in two, and passed between the parts, 19. The princes of Judah, and the princes of Jerusalem, and the eunuchs, and the priests, and all the people of the land, which were passed between the pieces of the calf. 20. And I will deliver them into the hand of their enemies, and of them that seek their life; and their dead bodies shall be meat for the fowls of the air, and for the beasts of the earth. 21. And Zedekiah king of Judah, and his princes, will I deliver into the hand of their enemies, and of them that seek their lives, and into the hand of the host of the king of Babylon, which are now departed from you. 22. For, behold, I will command them, saith the LORD, and will bring them again before this city, and they shall fight against it, and win it, and burn it with fire; and I will lay waste the cities of Judah, and none shall dwell there. (Jeremiah) Chapter 35 Of the Rechabite obedience and the Jewish people disobedience. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, saying: 2. Go into the house of the Rechabites, and speak unto them, and bring them into the house of the LORD, into one of the chapels, and give them wine. 3. And I took Jazaniah the son of Jeremiah the son of Habaziniah, and his brethren, and all his sons, and all the house of Rechab. 4. And brought them into the house of the LORD, into the chapel of the children of Hanan the son of Jegdaliah, the man of God, which is by the prince's chapel, above the chapel of Maaseiah the son of Shallum, the keeper of the gate. 5. And I set before the children of the house of Rechab, cups full of wine, and bowls, and said unto them: Drink wine! 6. And they answered: We drink not wine: for Jonadab the son of Rechab our father hath commanded us, saying, Ye and your children shall never drink wine. 7. And build no house, nor sow seed, nor plant a vineyard, nor have any: but dwell in tents all your days, that ye may live long in the land wherein ye sojourn. 8. So we have obeyed the voice of Jonadab our father, the son of Rechab, in all that he commanded us, that we should drink no wine all the days of our life, neither we, nor our wives, nor our sons, nor our daughters, 9. Neither build we houses to dwell in, neither have we vineyards, nor fields, nor seed, 10. But dwell in tabernacles, and obey, and do all things, as our father Jonadab commanded. 11. And when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, we said: Come, and let us go up to Jerusalem before the army of the Chaldeans and the Syrians: and we abode at Jerusalem. 12. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, saying: 13. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Go and say unto them of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Will ye not amend yourselves, that ye may hearken unto my words? saith the LORD. 14. The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, which he commanded his children that they should not drink wine, are kept: and they drink no wine unto this day, because they obeyed their father's commandment. I have always preached to you, but you have not obeyed me. 15. Even so have I always sent unto you all my servants the prophets, saying, Turn ye every man from his evil way, and amend your ways, and follow not other gods to serve them; and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given you and to your fathers. But ye would not incline your ears, nor obey me, 16. But the children of Jonadab the son of Rechab have kept their father's commandment, which he commanded them. But this people will not obey me. 17. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, and the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, all the evil that I have spoken against them, because I have spoken unto them, and they will not hear, I have called, and they will not answer me. 18. And Jeremiah said unto the house of the Rechabites, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Because ye have obeyed the commandment of Jonadab your father, and kept all his commandments, and done all that he commanded you, 19. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; There shall never fail Jonadab the son of Rechab; one of his own shall stand before me at all times. (Jeremiah) Chapter 36 Jeremiah's sermons are torn up, burned, and rewritten. 1. In the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying: 2. Take a book, and write therein all the words which I have spoken unto thee concerning Israel, and concerning Judah, and concerning all nations, from the time that I spake unto thee, even from the days of Josiah even unto this day, 3. Whether it may be that the house of Judah, hearing all the evil that I intend to do unto them, will turn every man from his wickedness, that I may forgive them their iniquity and their sin. 4. Then called Jeremiah Baruch the son of Neriah. And Baruch the same wrote in a book out of the mouth of Jeremiah all the sayings of the LORD, which he spake unto him. 5. And Jeremiah commanded Baruch, saying: I am a prisoner, that I cannot enter into the house of the LORD. 6. And thou shalt go in, and read the book wherein thou hast written the words of the LORD out of my mouth, before the people in the house of the LORD at the feast: and thou shalt read them also in the ears of all Judah, which come in out of their cities, 7. Whether they would humble themselves with prayer before the LORD, and turn every man from his evil way: for great is the wrath and fury of which the LORD hath spoken against this people. 8. And Baruch the son of Neriah did according to all that Jeremiah the prophet commanded him, to read the words of the LORD out of the book in the house of the LORD. 9. And it came to pass in the fifth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, in the ninth month, that they proclaimed a fast before the LORD unto all the people of Jerusalem, and to all the people that come out of the cities of Judah unto Jerusalem. 10. And Baruch read out of the book the words of Jeremiah in the house of the LORD, in the chapel of Gemariah the son of Shaphan the chancellor, in the upper court before the new gate of the house of the LORD, before all the people. 11. Now when Micaiah the son of Gemariah the son of Shaphan had heard all the words of the LORD out of the book, 12. And he went down into the king's house, into the king's chamber. And, behold, all the princes sat there; Elishama the chancellor, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, with all the princes. 13. And Micaiah shewed them all the words which he had heard, when Baruch read out of the book in the ears of the people. 14. Then all the princes sent Judiah the son of Nethaniah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Chushi, unto Baruch, saying. Take with thee the book out of which thou hast read before the people, and come. And Baruch the son of Neriah took the book with him, and came unto them. 15. And they said unto him, Sit thou down, and read, that we may hear. And Baruch read in their ears. 16. And when they heard all these sayings, they were amazed one against another, and said unto Baruch, We will report all these sayings unto the king. 17. And said unto Baruch, Tell us, how hast thou written all these sayings out of his mouth? 18. And Baruch said unto them: He read all these sayings out of his mouth unto me, and I wrote them in ink in the book. 19. And the princes said unto Baruch, Go and hide thyself with Jeremiah, that no man know where ye are. 20. And they went in unto the king into the court, and kept the book in the chamber of Elishama the chancellor, and spake all these words before the king. 21. Then the king sent Judi to fetch the book. And he took it out of the chamber of Elishama the chancellor. And Judiah read before the king, and before all the princes that sat with the king. 22. And the king sat in the winter house, in the ninth month, before the hearth. 23. And when Judi had read three or four leaves, he cut it with a penknife, and cast it into the fire that was in the hearth, until the book was burnt up altogether in the fire. 24. And no man was astonished, nor rent his clothes, neither the king, nor his servants, when all had heard these sayings. 25. And Elnathan, and Delaiah, and Gemariah, besought the king that he would not burn the book; but he hearkened not unto them. 26. And the king commanded Jerahmeel the son of Hamelech, and Seraiah the son of Aziel, and Shelemiah the son of Abdeel, that they should take Baruch the scribe, and Jeremiah the prophet. But the LORD had hid them. 27. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, after that the king had burned the book, and the words which Baruch wrote out of the mouth of Jeremiah, saying: 28. Take thee another book, and write therein all the former words which were in the first book, which Jehoiakim king of Judah burnt, 29. And say of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Thus saith the LORD; Thou hast burned this book, saying, Why hast thou written therein, that the king of Babylon shall come and destroy this land, and make it desolate; that there shall be neither people nor cattle therein? 30. Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim king of Judah; He shall not sit on the throne of David, one of his own; and his body shall lie thrown down in the heat of the day, and in the frost of the night. 31. And I will punish him, and his seed, and his servants, for their iniquity. And I will bring upon them, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and upon them that are in Judah, all the evil that I have spoken unto them, and they will not obey. 32. Then Jeremiah took another book, and gave it to Baruch the son of Neriah the scribe. And he wrote therein out of the mouth of Jeremiah all the words that were in the book which Jehoiakim king of Judah had burned with fire: and upon them were many more words than those. (Jeremiah) Chapter 37 Jeremiah is beaten and imprisoned. 1. And Zedekiah the son of Josiah reigned instead of Jechaniah the son of Jehoiakim: for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon made him king in the land of Judah. 2. But he, and his servants, and the people of the land, hearkened not unto the words of the LORD, which he spake by Jeremiah the prophet. 3. And Zedekiah the king sent Juchal the son of Shelemiah, and Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah the priest, unto Jeremiah the prophet, saying, Pray unto the LORD our God for us. 4. For now Jeremiah went out and in among the people, and no man put him in prison. 5. So Pharaoh's army was come out of Egypt, and the Chaldeans that were before Jerusalem, when they heard the rumour, departed from Jerusalem. 6. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah the prophet, saying: 7. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Thus say ye unto the king of Judah, which sent you unto me to inquire of me, Behold, the army of Pharaoh, which went out to help you, shall return into Egypt, 8. And the Chaldeans shall come again, and fight against that city, and win it, and burn it with fire. 9. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Deceive not your souls, that ye think the Chaldeans will depart from us. They shall not depart. 10. And if ye smite all the army of the Chaldeans that fight against you, and if there remain any wounded, they will arise every man in his tent, and burn this city with fire. 11. And when the army of the Chaldeans was departed from Jerusalem for Pharaoh's army's sake, 12. Jeremiah went out of Jerusalem, and would go into the land of Benjamin, to till the ground among the people. 13. And when he was come under the gate of Benjamin, there was one appointed keeper of the gate, whose name was Jena, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah: and he took hold of Jeremiah the prophet, and said, Thou wilt fall unto the Chaldeans. 14. And Jeremiah said, It is not true; I will not fall to the Chaldeans. But Jeriah would not hear him, but took Jeremiah, and brought him unto the princes. 15. And the princes were wroth with Jeremiah, and smote him, and cast him into prison in the house of Jonathan the scribe, whom they made a jailer. 16. So Jeremiah went into the pit and dungeon, and lay there a long time. 17. And Zedekiah the king sent and fetched him, and asked him secretly in his house, saying: Is there also a word from the LORD? And Jeremiah said, Yea; for thou shalt be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon. 18. And Jeremiah said unto king Zedekiah, What have I sinned against thee, and against thy servants, and against this people, that they have cast me into prison? 19. Where then are your prophets that prophesied unto you, saying: The king of Babylon shall not come upon you, nor upon this land? 20. And now, my lord king, hear me, and let my petition be accepted before thee, and let me not be brought again into Jonathan the scribe's house, that I die not there. 21. And king Zedekiah commanded that Jeremiah should be kept in the court of the prison, and gave him a loaf of bread out of the bakers' street every day, until all the bread in the city was consumed. So Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison. (Jeremiah) Chapter 38 Jeremiah is thrown into a pit, rescued from it, and challenged by the king to a secret interview. 1. And Shaphatiah the son of Mathan, and Gedaliah the son of Pashur, and Juchal the son of Shelemiah, and Pashur the son of Malchiah, heard the words which Jeremiah spake unto all the people, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD; He that abideth in this city shall die by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence: but he that goeth out to the Chaldeans shall live, and shall carry away his life as a prey. 3. For thus saith the LORD, This city shall be delivered unto the army of the king of Babylon, and they shall recover it. 4. Then said the princes unto the king: Let this man be put to death: for by this manner he turneth away the men of war that are left in this city, and all the people also, because he saith such words unto them. For this man seeks not peace for this people, but disaster. 5. And king Zedekiah said, Behold, he is in your hands: for the king can do nothing against you. 6. And they took Jeremiah, and cast him into the pit of Malchiah the son of Hamelech, which was in the court of the prison, and let him down by ropes into the pit, where was no water, but mire. And Jeremiah sank into the mire. 7. And when Ebed-melech the Moor, a chamberlain of the king's house, heard that Jeremiah was cast into the pit, the king sat in the gate of Benjamin, 8. And Ebed-melech went out of the king's house, and spake unto the king, and said: 9. O my lord the king, men have dealt wickedly with Jeremiah the prophet, because they have cast him into the pit, and he shall die of hunger: for there is no bread left in the city. 10. Then the king commanded Ebed-melech the Moor, saying, Take with thee thirty men of these, and draw Jeremiah the prophet out of the pit, before he die. 11. And Ebed-melech took the men with him, and went into the king's house under the treasury, and took there old rags that were torn and worn, and let them down by a cord unto Jeremiah into the pit. 12. And Ebed-melech the Moor said unto Jeremiah, Put these torn and worn old rags under thine armpits about the rope. And Jeremiah did so. 13. And they drew Jeremiah up out of the pit by the cords. And so Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison. 14. And king Zedekiah sent, and took Jeremiah the prophet unto him, unto the third entry of the house of the LORD. And the king said unto Jeremiah, I will ask thee a question; but, my lord, do not hinder me. 15. And Jeremiah said unto Zedekiah, If I tell thee anything, thou shalt kill me: but if I give thee counsel, thou shalt not hearken unto me. 16. Then king Zedekiah sware unto Jeremiah privily, saying, As the LORD liveth, which hath made this soul for us, I will not slay thee, nor give thee into the hand of men that seek thy life. 17. And Jeremiah said unto Zedekiah, Thus saith the LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel; If thou go out unto the princes of the king of Babylon, then thou shalt live; and this city shall not be burned, but thou shalt live, thou, and thy house. 18. But if thou wilt not go out unto the princes of the king of Babylon, then shall this city be given into the hand of the Chaldeans, and they shall burn it with fire; neither shalt thou escape out of their hand. 19. And king Zedekiah said unto Jeremiah, I am afraid that I may be delivered unto the Jews which are fallen among the Chaldeans, that they may mock me. 20. And Jeremiah said, They shall not deliver thee up. But obey the voice of the LORD, which I say unto thee, and it shall be well with thee, and thou shalt live. 21. But if thou wilt not go forth, this is the word which the LORD hath shewed me: 22. Behold, all the women that are left in the house of the king of Judah shall go out unto the princes of the king of Babylon. And they shall say, Alas, thy comforters have persuaded thee, and deceived thee, and led thee into the mire, and have left thee in the lurch! 23. So then all thy wives and thy children shall go out to the Chaldeans, and thou thyself shalt not escape their hand; but thou shalt be taken by the king of Babylon, and this city shall be burned with fire. 24. And Zedekiah said unto Jeremiah, See that no man know this saying, and thou shalt not die. 25. And if the princes know that I have spoken unto thee, and come unto thee, saying, Declare thou what thou hast spoken unto the king, and deny us not, we will not kill thee: and what hath the king spoken unto thee? 26. Then say, I have prayed the king that he would not suffer me to return to Jonathan's house, and that I should die there. 27. Then all the princes came to Jeremiah, and asked him; and he told them as the king commanded him. And they left him, because they knew nothing. 28. And Jeremiah abode in the court of the prison until the day that Jerusalem was taken. (Jeremiah) Chapter 39 Jerusalem is conquered, Zedekiah is captured, Jeremiah and Ebed-Melech are preserved. 1. And it came to pass, that Jerusalem was taken. For in the ninth year of Zedekiah king of Judah, in the tenth month, came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and all his host before Jerusalem, and besieged it. 2. And in the eleventh year of Zedekiah, on the ninth day of the fourth month, they entered into the city. 3. And all the princes of the king of Babylon went in, and stood by the middle gate, Nergal-sarezer, and Sangar-nebo, and Sarsechim the chief chamberlain, and Nergal-sarezer the chamberlain, and all the princes of the king of Babylon. 4. And when Zedekiah king of Judah saw them, they and his men of war fled out of the city by night by the king's garden through the gate between two walls, and passed through the field. 5. And the army of the Chaldeans pursued after them, and took Zedekiah in the field near Jericho, and took him, and brought him unto Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon to Riblath, which is in the land of Hemath: and he pronounced judgment against him. 6. And the king of Babylon slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes in Riblath, and slew all the princes of Judah. 7. And he put out Zedekiah's eyes, and bound him with chains, to bring him to Babylon. 8. And the Chaldeans burned both the king's house, and the houses of the people, and brake down the walls of Jerusalem. 9. And the rest of the people that were in the city, and the rest that fell among them, Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard carried them all away captive to Babylon. 10. And of the little people that had nothing, Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard left some in the land of Judah at that time, and gave them vineyards and villages. 11. But Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had commanded Nebuzar-Adan the chief man of Jeremiah, saying: 12. Take thee, and let him be commanded thee, and do him no hurt: but as he desireth thee, so do it unto him. 13. And Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard, and Nebu-sasban the chief chamberlain, and Nergal-sarezer the chamberlain, and all the princes of the king of Babylon, sent to him 14. And they sent for Jeremiah out of the court of the prison, and commanded Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan, to bring him out to his house, and to dwell with the people. 15. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah, while he was yet a prisoner in the court of the prison, saying: 16. Go and tell Ebed-melech the Moor: Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring my words upon this city for evil, and for no good; and thou shalt see it in that day. 17. But I will save thee in that day, saith the LORD; and thou shalt not be delivered unto them of whom thou art afraid. 18. For I will save thee from falling by the sword, but thou shalt carry away thy life as a prey: because thou hast trusted in me, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah) Chapter 40 Jeremiah stays with Gedaliah in the land. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, when Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard loosed him at Ramah: for he also was bound with chains among all them that were captives in Jerusalem and in Judah, to carry them away to Babylon. 2. And when the captain of the guard had sent for Jeremiah, he said unto him, The LORD thy God hath pronounced this evil upon this place. 3. And he brought it to pass, and did according to his word: for ye have sinned against the LORD, and have not obeyed his voice: therefore these things have happened unto you. 4. Now therefore, behold, I have loosed thee this day from the chains that bound thy hands. If it please thee to go with me to Babylon, come, and I will command thee: but if it please thee not to go with me to Babylon, let it stand. Behold, all the land is before thee: whithersoever it seemeth thee good, and pleaseth thee, go thither. 5. For beyond that there shall be no return. Therefore return thou unto Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan, whom the king of Babylon hath set over the cities of Judah, and dwell with him among the people; or go whithersoever it pleaseth thee. And the centurion gave him victuals and gifts, and let him go. 6. So Jeremiah came to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam to Mizpah, and abode with him among the people that were left in the land. 7. And it came to pass, when the captains that were in the field, and their men, heard that the king of Babylon had set Gedaliah the son of Ahikam over the land, and over both men, and over women, and over children, and over the little ones of the land, which were not led to Babylon, that the king of Babylon had set him over the land, 8. And they came to Gedaliah to Mizpah, even Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and Johanan, and Jonathan the sons of Kareah, and Seraiah the son of Tanhumeth, and the sons of Ephai of Netophath, and Jezaniah the son of Maachathi, and their men. 9. And Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan sware unto them and to their men, saying, Fear not to be subject unto the Chaldeans: dwell in the land, and be subject unto the king of Babylon, and it shall be well with you. 10. Behold, I dwell here in Mizpah, to minister unto the Chaldeans that come unto us. Gather therefore the wine, and the figs, and the oil, and put them into your vessels, and dwell in your cities which ye have received. 11. And all the Jews that were in the land of Moab, and in the children of Ammon, and in Edom, and in all the countries, when they heard that the king of Babylon had left some in Judah, and had set over them Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan, 12. And they returned all of them from all the places whither they were driven into the land of Judah to Gedaliah to Mizpah, and gathered much wine and summer fruit. 13. And Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains that were in the field, came to Gedaliah to Mizpah. 14. And they said unto him, Knowest thou that Baalish king of the children of Ammon hath sent Ishmael the son of Nethaniah to slay thee? But Gedaliah the son of Ahikam would not believe them. 15. And Johanan the son of Kareah said unto Gedaliah secretly at Mizpah, I will go and smite Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, that no man know it. Why shall he smite thee, and all the Jews that are gathered unto thee shall be scattered, and they that are left of Judah shall perish? 16. And Gedaliah the son of Ahikam said unto Johanan the son of Kareah: Thou shalt not do this thing: it is not true that thou sayest of Ishmael. (Jeremiah) Chapter 41 Ishmael slays Gedaliah, Johanan chases after him. 1. And it came to pass in the seventh month, that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah the son of Elishama, of the royal tribe, and the king's captains, and ten men with him, came to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam to Mizpah, and did eat there together at Mizpah. 2. And Ishmael the son of Nethaniah arose, and the ten men that were with him, and smote Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan with the sword to death, because the king of Babylon had set him over the land. 3. And all the Jews that were with Gedaliah at Mizpah, and the Chaldeans that were found there, and all the men of war, did Ishmael smite. 4. The next day, after Gedaliah was slain, and as yet no man knew, 5. And there came eighty men from Shechem, and from Shiloh, and from Samaria, having shaven off their beards, and rent their clothes, and rent themselves, and bearing meat offerings and incense, to bring into the house of the LORD. 6. And Ishmael the son of Nethaniah went out from Mizpah to meet them, and went along weeping. And when he came to them, he said unto them: Ye shall come to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam. 7. And when they were come into the midst of the city, Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and the men that were with him, slew them by the well. 8. But there were ten. And they said unto Ishmael, Slay us not: for we have treasures in the field, of wheat, and of barley, and of oil, and of honey. So he desisted, and slew them not with the rest. 9. And the well wherein Ishmael cast the dead bodies which he slew, and Gedaliah, is the well which king Asa made against Baasha king of Israel; and Ishmael the son of Nethaniah filled it with the slain. 10. And the rest of the people that were at Mizpeh, even the king's daughters, did Ishmael the son of Nethaniah carry away captive with all the rest of the people that were at Mizpeh, over whom Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard had set Gedaliah the son of Ahikam: and he went and passed over to the children of Ammon. 11. And Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the host that were with him, heard all the evil that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah had done, 12. And they took all the men, and went to fight against Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and met him by the great river at Gibeon. 13. And when all the people that were with Ishmael saw Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the host that were with him, they were glad. 14. And all the people which Ishmael had led away from Mizpah turned again, and returned unto Johanan the son of Kareah. 15. And Ishmael the son of Nethaniah escaped from Johanan with eight men, and went unto the children of Ammon. 16. And Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the host that were with him, took unto them all the remnant of the people which they had brought again from Ishmael the son of Nethaniah out of Mizpah, because Gedaliah the son of Ahikam was slain, even the men of war, and the women, and the children, and the eunuchs, which they had brought again from Gibeon, 17. And they went and returned to Kimham the lodger, which dwelt by Bethlehem, to go into Egypt before the Chaldeans. 18. For they were afraid of them, because Ishmael the son of Nethaniah had slain Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, whom the king of Babylon had set over the land. (Jeremiah) Chapter 42 Jeremiah counsels the Jews to go to Egypt. 1. Then came all the captains of the host, Johanan the son of Kareah, and Jezaniah the son of Hoshaiah, and all the people, both small and great, 2. And they said unto Jeremiah the prophet, Let our prayer be accepted before thee, and pray for us unto the LORD thy God for all these remnant: for ours, alas, are few of many, as thou thyself seest us with thine eyes, 3. That the LORD thy God would shew us whither we should go, and what we should do. 4. And Jeremiah the prophet said unto them: Now therefore I will obey; and, behold, I will pray unto the LORD your God, as ye have said: and whatsoever the LORD shall answer you, that will I shew you, and will not restrain you. 5. And they said unto Jeremiah, Let the LORD be a sure and true witness between us, that we will not do all that the LORD thy God shall command thee concerning us. 6. Whether it be good or bad, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God, unto whom we send thee; that it may go well with us, if we obey the voice of the LORD our God. 7. And after ten days the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah. 8. And he called Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the host that were with him, and all the people, both small and great, 9. And said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, unto whom ye sent me to bring your prayer before him: 10. If ye abide in this land, I will build you, and not break you; I will plant you, and not pluck you up: for the evil that I have done unto you hath already repented me. 11. Be not afraid of the king of Babylon, of whom ye are afraid, saith the LORD; be not afraid of him: for I will be with you to help you, and to deliver you out of his hand. 12. I will show you mercy, and have compassion on you, and will bring you again into your own land. 13. And ye shall say, We will not dwell in the land, lest ye obey the voice of the LORD your God, 14. But say, Nay, we will go into the land of Egypt, that we may not see war, nor hear the sound of the trumpet, nor famine for bread: there will we dwell: 15. Hear therefore the word of the LORD, ye remnant of Judah. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Will ye set your faces to go into the land of Egypt, that ye may dwell there? 16. And the sword, of which ye are afraid, shall fall upon you in the land of Egypt: and the famine, of which ye are troubled, shall always be after you in Egypt, and ye shall die there. 17. For let them be who they will, that set their faces to go into Egypt to dwell there: they shall die by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence; and none shall survive, nor escape the evil that I will bring upon them. 18. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As mine anger and my wrath is upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so shall it be upon you, when ye go into Egypt, that ye shall be a curse, and a wonder, and an oath, and a reproach, and shall see this place no more. 19. The word of the LORD is unto you, O remnant of Judah, that ye go not into Egypt. Know therefore that I testify unto you this day. 20. Or else ye shall make your lives desolate. For ye have sent me unto the LORD your God, saying, Ask the LORD our God for us: and whatsoever the LORD our God shall say, shew us, and we will do it. 21. These things have I made known unto you this day: but ye will not obey the voice of the LORD your God, nor all that he hath commanded me concerning you. 22. Know ye therefore that ye shall die by the sword, and by famine, and by pestilence, in the place whither ye go to dwell. (Jeremiah) Chapter 43 The Jews move to Egypt. 1. When Jeremiah had spoken all the words of the LORD their God unto all the people, as the LORD their God had commanded him all these words unto them, 2. And Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the rebellious men, said unto Jeremiah, Thou liest. The LORD our God hath not sent thee unto us, nor said, Ye shall not go into Egypt to dwell there, 3. But Baruch the son of Neriah persuadeth thee against us, that we may be delivered unto the Chaldeans, that they may kill us, and carry us away to Babylon. 4. So Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the host, and all the people, hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD, to abide in the land of Judah, 5. But Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the host, took unto them all the remnant of Judah, which were returned from all the nations whither they fled, to dwell in the land of Judah, 6. And the man, and the woman, and the children, and the king's daughters, and all the souls that Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard had left with Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Jeremiah the prophet, and Baruch the son of Neriah, 7. And they went into the land of Egypt, because they would not hearken unto the voice of the LORD: and they came to Tahpanhes. 8. And the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah unto Tachpanhes, saying: 9. Take large stones, and bury them in the goatkiln that is at the door of Pharaoh's house in Tashpanheth; and the men of Judah shall see it. 10. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will send and fetch Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon my servant, and will set his throne upon these stones which I have buried, and he shall pitch his tent over them. 11. And he shall come and smite the land of Egypt, and kill whomsoever it shall smite, carry captive whomsoever it shall smite, smite with the sword whomsoever it shall smite. 12. And I will burn the houses of the gods in Egypt with fire, and he shall burn them, and carry them away. And he shall put on him the land of Egypt, as a shepherd putteth on his garment, and depart thence in peace. 13. And he shall break in pieces the graven images of Bethshemesh in the land of Egypt, and shall burn with fire the churches of idols in Egypt. (Jeremiah) Chapter 44 The unruly Jews are punished by Jeremiah. 1. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah unto all the Jews that dwelt in the land of Egypt, even to Migdal, and to Thachpanhes, and to Noph, and to them that dwelt in the land of Pathros, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Ye have seen all the evil that I have brought upon Jerusalem, and upon all the cities of Judah; and, behold, they are desolate this day, and none dwelleth therein; 3. And this because of their wickedness, which they did, to provoke me to anger, and to go and burn incense, and to serve other gods, which neither they, nor ye, nor your fathers, knew. 4. And I sent unto you always all my servants the prophets, saying, Do not such abominations as I hate. 5. But they hearkened not, neither inclined their ears from their wickedness, that they should repent, and not burn incense unto other gods. 6. Therefore also mine anger and my fury came on and burned upon the cities of Judah, and upon the streets of Jerusalem, and they became desolate and waste, as it is this day. 7. Now therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel; Why do ye this great evil against your own lives, that both man and woman, both child and suckling, should be cut off from among you out of Judah, and that nothing should remain of you? 8. That ye should provoke me to anger with your hands, and burn incense unto other gods in the land of Egypt, whither ye went to lodge, that ye might be cut off, and become a curse and a reproach among all the nations of the earth? 9. Have ye forgotten the calamities of your fathers, the calamities of the kings of Judah, the calamities of their wives, and your own calamities, and the calamities of your wives, which ye have met with in the land of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem? 10. Nor are they humbled unto this day, neither do they fear, nor walk in my law and my statutes, which I set before you and before your fathers. 11. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will set my face against you to destruction, and all Judah shall be cut off. 12. And I will take the remnant of Judah, which have set their faces to go into the land of Egypt, and they shall lodge there: and there shall be an end of them all in the land of Egypt. By the sword shall they fall, and by the famine shall they perish, both small and great: they shall die by the sword and by the famine; and they shall be sworn, and wrought a miracle, and cursed, and put to death. Disgrace. 13. I will also afflict the inhabitants of the land of Egypt with the sword, with famine, and with pestilence, as I did Jerusalem, 14. That none of the remnant of Judah should escape, nor remain, who came hither to the land of Egypt to lodge, that they might return into the land of Judah, whither they would return and dwell: but there should no man return thither, except they flee hence. 15. And all the men that knew that their wives burned incense unto other gods, and all the women that were with a great multitude, and all the people that dwelt in the land of Egypt, and in Pathros, answered Jeremiah, and said: 16. According to the word which thou sayest unto us in the name of the LORD, we will not obey thee, 17. But we will do according to all the word that proceedeth out of our mouth, and we will burn incense unto Melecheth of heaven, and offer drink offerings unto her, as we have done, and as our fathers, and our kings, and our princes, have done in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem. And we had bread enough, and we prospered, and saw no evil. 18. But since that time we have ceased to burn incense to Melecheth of heaven, and to offer drink offerings, we have suffered all want, and have perished by the sword and by the famine. 19. Even when we burn incense unto Melecheth of heaven, and offer drink offerings, we do not do it without our husbands' will, that we should burn their cakes, and offer drink offerings, to afflict them. 20. Then said Jeremiah unto all the people, both men and women, and to all the people that answered him so: 21. For I think that the LORD remembered the incense which ye burned in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, with your fathers, kings, and princes, and all the people of the land, and took it to heart, 22. That he could no more endure your wickedness and your abominations which ye did: therefore also your land is become a desolation, and a wonder, and a curse, that no man dwelleth therein, as it is this day. 23. Because ye have burned incense, and sinned against the LORD, and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have not walked in his law, and in his statutes, and in his judgments, and in his testimonies, therefore this evil hath befallen you, as it is this day. 24. And Jeremiah spake unto all the people, and unto all the women: Hear the word of the LORD, all ye of Judah that are in the land of Egypt. 25. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Ye and your wives have spoken with your mouth, and wrought with your hands, saying, We will keep our vows, which we have vowed to Melecheth of heaven, to burn incense unto her, and to offer drink offerings unto her. Well then, you have fulfilled your vows and kept your vows. 26. Hear therefore the word of the LORD, all ye of Judah that dwell in the land of Egypt. Behold, I swear by my great name, saith the LORD, that my name shall no more be called by the mouth of any man out of Judah in all the land of Egypt, saying, As the LORD LORD liveth. 27. Behold, I will watch over them for evil, and for no good: and whosoever is of Judah in the land of Egypt shall perish by the sword, and by the famine, until there be an end of them. 28. But they that escape the sword shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Judah with a small company. And all the remnant of Judah that went into the land of Egypt to lodge there shall know whose word is true, mine or theirs. 29. And for a sign, saith the LORD, that I will visit you in this place, that ye may know that my word shall come to pass upon you to mischief, 30. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will deliver Pharaoh Haphra king of Egypt into the hand of his enemies, and of them that are after his life; as I delivered Zedekiah king of Judah into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, his enemy, and that was after his life. (Jeremiah) Chapter 45 Baruch is comforted by Jeremiah. 1. This is the word which Jeremiah the prophet spake unto Baruch the son of Neriah, when he wrote this saying in a book out of the mouth of Jeremiah in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, concerning thee, Baruch: 3. Thou sayest, Woe is me! How hath the LORD afflicted me with my sorrows: I groan, and find no rest. 4. Say therefore unto him, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, that which I have built I will break down, and that which I have planted I will pluck up, even all this land of mine own. 5. And thou covetest great things for thyself. Desire them not. For, behold, I will bring evil upon all flesh, saith the LORD; but thy soul will I give thee for a prey, whither thou goest. (Jeremiah) Chapter 46 Egypt is to be taken and destroyed, the Jews delivered from captivity. 1. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Jeremiah the prophet against all nations. 2. Against Egypt. Against the army of Pharaoh-necho king of Egypt, which was at the river Phrath, at Carchemish, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon smote in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah: 3. Arm your shields and tartars, and go forth to battle. 4. Harness horses and mount horsemen. Put on your helmets, sharpen your spears, and put on your armor. 5. And how is it that I see them desponding, and giving flight, and their mighty men slain? They flee, and look not about. They are afraid for ever, saith the LORD. 6. The swift shall not escape, nor the strong escape. Towards midnight at the waters of Phrath they fell and were laid low. 7. Where then is he that went up like a river, and his waves rose up like the waters? 8. Egypt went up like a river, and the waves thereof rose up like waters, and said: I will go up, and cover the land, and destroy the city, and them that dwell therein. 9. Now therefore, mount up the horses, run with the chariots, let the heroes go forth, the Moors, and from Put, that bear the shield, and the archers from Lydia. 10. For this is the day of the LORD of hosts, a day of vengeance, to avenge himself on his enemies, when the sword shall devour, and be filled with their blood, and be drunken. For they shall be a sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in the land northward, by the river Phrath. 11. Go up to Gilead, and fetch ointment, O virgin, daughter of Egypt. But it is vain for thee to make much ointment: thou shalt not be healed. 12. Thy reproach is heard among the heathen, thy howling is full in the land: for one hero falleth over another, and both are fallen down together. 13. This is the word of the LORD, which he spake unto Jeremiah the prophet, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon was come to smite the land of Egypt: 14. Declare ye in Egypt, and tell Migdal; tell Noph and Thachpanhes, saying, Stand thou in the way: for the sword shall devour that is round about thee. 15. How is it that thy mighty ones fall to the ground, and may not stand? The LORD hath brought them down. 16. He maketh many of them to fall, one with another. Then they said: Come, let us return to our people, to our own land, from the sword of the tyrant. 17. And there they cried after them, saying, Pharaoh king of Egypt lieth down; he hath left his tent. 18. As surely as I live, saith the King, whose name is the LORD of hosts, he shall go up as high as mount Tabor among the mountains, and as Carmel by the sea. 19. Take thy wayfaring, thou inhabitant, daughter of Egypt: for Noph shall be desolate and burned, and none shall dwell therein. 20. Egypt is a very fair calf: but the slayer cometh from the north. 21. And the hirelings also that dwell within are as fatted calves: but yet they must turn, and flee away together, and shall not stand: for the day of their calamity shall come upon them, even the time of their visitation. 22. They go forth with a clash of armour, and come with strength, and bring axes upon them like hewers of wood. 23. These shall so smite in their forest, saith the LORD, that they shall not be numbered: for there are no more of them than of locusts, which no man can number. 24. The daughter of Egypt standeth with shame: for she is given into the hands of the people of the north. 25. The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saith, Behold, I will punish the ruler of Noah, and Pharaoh, and Egypt, and her gods, and her kings, and Pharaoh, and all them that trust in him, 26. And I will deliver them into the hand of them that are after their lives, and into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of his servants. And afterward thou shalt be inhabited as of old, saith the LORD. 27. But thou, my servant Jacob, fear not; and thou, Israel, despair not. For, behold, I will save thee out of far countries, and thy seed out of the land of his prison; and Jacob shall return, and be in peace, and have abundance; and none shall affright him. 28. Therefore fear not, O Jacob my servant, saith the LORD; for I am with thee. I will make an end of all the nations whither I have driven thee: but I will not make an end of thee, but I will chasten thee with measures, that I may not leave thee unpunished. (Jeremiah) Chapter 47 Prophecy against the Philistines, Tyre and Zidon. 1. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before Pharaoh smote Gaza. 2. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, the waters come up from the north, which shall make a flood, and shall take away the land, and all that is therein, both the cities, and they that dwell therein; and the people shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl. 3. For the tumult of their mighty horses that run, and for the rattling of their chariots, and the rumbling of their wheels, that the fathers shall not look for the children, because they shall be afraid. 4. Before the day that cometh to destroy all the Philistines, and to deliver up Tyre and Zidon, and all their helpers: For the LORD will destroy the Philistines, which are the remnant of the isle of Caphtor. 5. Gaza shall be bald, and Ascalon and the remnant thereof shall be destroyed in their foundations. How long wilt thou cut thyself? 6. O sword of the LORD, when wilt thou cease? Enter thou into thy sheath, and rest, and be still. 7. But how canst thou cease, because the LORD hath commanded thee against Ascalon, and hath appointed thee against the fords of the sea? (Jeremiah) Chapter 48 Prophecy against Moab. 1. Against Moab Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Woe unto the city of Nebo; for it is destroyed, and is in ruins! Kiriathaim is taken; the stronghold standeth in ruins, and is broken down. 2. The defiance of Moab, which they had against Heshbon, is ended: for evil is thought against them, saying, Come, and let us cut them off, that they be no more a nation. And thou, O Madmen, shalt be destroyed: the sword shall come behind thee, 3. A cry is heard in Horonaim of distress and great lamentation. 4. Moab is smitten: they hear their young ones crying. 5. For they go up the way to Luhith with weeping, and the enemies hear a wailing cry down the way from Horonaim, 6. Namely, Lift up yourselves, and save your lives. But thou shalt be as the heathen in the wilderness. 7. Because thou trustest in thy buildings, and in thy treasures, thou shalt be won: and Kamos shall go forth captive, with his priests and his princes. 8. For the destroyer shall come upon all cities, and not one city shall escape. Both the foundations shall be spoiled, and the plains shall be destroyed: for the LORD hath spoken it. 9. Give Moab feathers. He shall go out as if he flew: and their cities shall be desolate, and none shall dwell therein. 10. Cursed be he that doeth the work of the LORD unadvisedly. Cursed be he that stoppeth his sword, lest it shed blood! 11. Moab hath been safe from his youth, and hath lain still upon his heels, and hath never poured out of one barrel into another, neither hath he gone into prison: therefore his savour hath remained unto him, and his smell hath not been changed. 12. Therefore, behold, saith the LORD, the time cometh, that I will send unto them roasting vessels, and will empty their barrels, and break their nails. 13. And Moab shall be ashamed of Kamos, as the house of Israel was ashamed of Bethel, whereon they trusted. 14. How may ye say, We are the mighty men of valour, and the mighty men of war? 15. But if Moab be destroyed, and her cities be taken, and her best men go down to the slaughter, saith the king, whose name is the LORD of hosts. 16. For the calamity of Moab shall come quickly, and her calamity shall haste greatly. 17. Dearly beloved, have pity on them, ye that dwell about them, and know their name, and say, How is the strong rod and the glorious staff so broken? 18. Come down from glory, thou daughter that dwellest in Dibon, and sittest in drought. For the destroyer of Moab shall come up unto thee, and shall break down thy strongholds. 19. Stand ye in the street, and look, thou inhabitant of Aroer; ask them that flee and escape, and say, How is it? 20. Alas, Moab is desolate and ruined; howl and cry! Declare it unto Arnon, that Moab is desolate. 21. The punishment is gone over the plain land, namely, Holon, Jahaz, Mephaath, 22. Dibon, Nebo, Beth-diblathaim, 23. kiriathaim, beth-gamul, beth-meon, 24. Kirioth, and Bazrah, and over all the cities of the land of Moab, they are far off, or near. 25. The horn of Moab is cut off, and her arm is broken, saith the LORD. 26. Make her drunken (for she hath exalted herself against the LORD), that she may spit, and wring her hands, that she also may be a laughing-stock. 27. For Israel hath been thy mockery, as if he were found among thieves: and because thou speakest these things against them, thou shalt be put away. 28. O ye inhabitants of Moab, leave the cities, and dwell in the rocks, and be as the doves that nest in the holes. 29. It hath always been said of proud Moab, that he is very proud, haughty, haughty, defiant, and overconfident. 30. But the LORD saith, I know well his wrath, that he is not able to do so much; and he presumeth to do more than his ability. 31. Therefore I must howl over Moab, and cry over all Moab, and lament over the people of Kir-heres. 32. I weep over thee, O Jaeser, thou vine of Sibmah: for thy branches are gone over the sea, and are come unto the sea of Jaeser. The destroyer is fallen into thy harvest and thy vintage. 33. Joy and gladness are gone out of the field, and out of the land of Moab: they shall press no more wine; the treaders of the vine shall sing no more their song. 34. From the cry of Heshbon unto Eleale, which soundeth unto Jahaz, from Zoar the three year old heifer unto Horonaim: for the waters of Nimrim are dried up. 35. And I will, saith the LORD, make an end of it in Moab, that they shall no more sacrifice in the high places, nor burn incense unto their gods. 36. Therefore my heart murmureth over Moab like a trumpet, and over the men of Kir-heres my lord murmureth like a trumpet: for they have overpowered it, therefore they must go down. 37. All heads shall be bald, and all beards shaven, and all hands rent, and every man shall put on sackcloth. 38. On every housetop, and in every street, and in every part of Moab, shall there be mourning: for I have broken Moab as a vessel that is not worthy, saith the LORD. 39. O how is it corrupt, how they howl! How shamefully they hang their heads! And Moab is a mockery and a terror to all that dwell about her, 40. For thus saith the LORD; Behold, he fleeth as an eagle, and spreadeth his wings over Moab. 41. Kiriath is taken, and the strong cities are taken; and the heart of the mighty men of Moab shall be in that day as the heart of a woman in childbearing. 42. For Moab must be destroyed, that they be no more a nation, because they have exalted themselves against the LORD. 43. Fear, and a pit, and a snare, shall come upon thee, O inhabitant of Moab, saith the LORD, 44. He that fleeth from fear shall fall into the pit, and he that cometh out of the pit shall be taken in a snare: for I will bring upon Moab a year of their visitation, saith the LORD. 45. And they that escape out of the battle shall take refuge in Heshbon: but there shall be a fire out of Heshbon, and a flame out of Sihon, which shall devour the places of Moab, and the valiant men. 46. Woe unto thee, Moab! The people of Kamos are lost: for they have taken thy sons and thy daughters, and carried them away captives. 47. But in the time to come I will turn the prison of Moab, saith the LORD. Let this be said of the punishment of Moab. (Jeremiah) Chapter 49 Prophecy against some other nations, neighbors of the Jews. 1. Thus saith the LORD against the children of Ammon, Hath not Israel children, or hath he no heir? Why then hath Malchom the land of Gad, and his people dwell in those cities? 2. Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a noise of war against Rabbath of the children of Ammon, and she shall lie desolate in a heap, and her daughters shall be set on fire. And Israel shall possess them that were possessed of them, saith the LORD. 3. Howl, O Heshbon; for Al is a reprobate. Cry, ye daughters of Rabbah, and put on sackcloth; lament, and run about upon the walls. For Malchom is carried away captive, with his priests and his princes. 4. What bravest thou upon thy pastures? Thy pastures are wasted, thou disobedient daughter, which trustest in thy treasures, and sayest in thine heart, Who may make himself to me? 5. Behold, saith the LORD of hosts, I will bring fear upon thee of all that dwell round about thee, that every man may be cast out of his way before him, and there shall be none to gather the fugitives. 6. But afterward I will turn again the prison of the children of Ammon, saith the LORD. 7. Against Edom. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Is there no more wisdom in Theman? Is there no more counsel in the wise? Is their wisdom so loose? 8. Flee, turn ye, and hide yourselves deep, ye citizens of Dedan: for I will bring an evil upon Esau, the time of his visitation. 9. Vine-gatherers shall come upon thee, which shall not let thee glean: and thieves by night shall come upon thee, which shall spoil them enough. 10. For I have made Esau bare, and have opened his secret places, that he cannot hide himself: his seed, and his brethren, and his neighbours, are cut off; there is none left of them. 11. But whatsoever remaineth of thy fatherless, to them will I give life; and thy widows shall hope in me. 12. For thus saith the LORD; Behold, they that were not guilty of drinking the cup must drink, and thou shalt go unpunished? Thou shalt not go unpunished, but thou shalt drink also. 13. For I have sworn by myself, saith the LORD, that Bazrah shall be a wonder, and a reproach, and a desolation, and a curse, and all her cities a desolation for ever. 14. I have heard of the LORD, that a message is sent unto the Gentiles, saying, Gather yourselves together, and come against them; arise to the battle. 15. For, behold, I have made thee small among the heathen, and despised among men. 16. Thine indignation and the pride of thine heart have deceived thee, because thou dwellest in the clefts of the rock, and hast high mountains in thine heart. Though thou make thy nest as high as the eagle, yet will I bring thee down from thence, saith the LORD. 17. And Edom shall be desolate: and all they that pass by shall marvel and whistle at all their plagues, 18. As Sodom and Gomorrha are turned back, and their neighbours with them, saith the LORD, Let no man dwell there, neither let any man dwell therein. 19. For, behold, he cometh up as a lion from the proud Jordan against the strong hold: for there will I make him to run in haste. And who knoweth who the young man is, whom I will prepare against them? For who is like unto me? Who will master me, and who is the shepherd that can withstand me? 20. Hear therefore the counsel of the LORD which he hath concerning Edom, and his thoughts which he hath concerning the inhabitants of Theman. What matter if the shepherds drag them, and destroy their habitation? 21. That the earth shall tremble when it falls one upon another; and their cry shall be heard in the Red sea. 22. Behold, he shall soar like an eagle, and shall spread his wings over Bazrah. In that day shall the heart of the mighty men of Edom be as the heart of a woman in childbearing. 23. Against Damascus. Hemath and Arpad stand miserable; they are despondent, for they hear an evil cry; they that dwell by the sea are so terrified that they cannot have rest. 24. Damascus is despondent, and giveth flight; she fidgeteth, and is in anguish and pain, as a woman in childbearing. 25. How, is it not now deserted, the famous and joyful city? 26. Therefore their young men shall lie down in their streets, and all their men of war shall perish in that day, saith the LORD of hosts. 27. And I will set on fire the walls of Damascus, and it shall devour the palaces of Benhadad. 28. Against Kedar, and against the kingdoms of Hazor, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon smote. Thus saith the LORD; Go up to Kedar, and destroy the children to morrow. 29. They shall take away their tents, and their flocks; their tents, and all their vessels, and their camels, shall they carry away: and they shall cry terribly upon them round about. 30. Flee, get thee quickly out of this place. Hide yourselves deep, ye inhabitants of Hazor, saith the LORD: for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon hath a purpose against you, and meaneth you. 31. Come ye up against a people that have plenty, and dwell safely, saith the LORD: they have neither door nor latch, and dwell alone. 32. And their camels shall be spoiled, and the multitude of their cattle shall be taken; and I will scatter them to the winds that dwell in the corners; and from every place will I cause their calamity to come upon them, saith the LORD, 33. And Hazor shall be a dragon's habitation, and an everlasting desolation, and none shall dwell there, neither shall any man dwell therein. 34. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Jeremiah the prophet against Elam in the beginning of the kingdom of Zedekiah king of Judah, saying: 35. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will break the bow of Elam, their chief power. 36. And I will cause the four winds to come upon them out of the four places of heaven, and will scatter them in all the same winds: and there shall not be a nation whither there shall not come exiles out of Elam. 37. And I will make Elam despondent before their enemies, and before them that seek their life, and will bring evil upon them with my fierce anger, saith the LORD; and I will send the sword after them, until I have consumed them. 38. And I will set my throne in Elam, and will destroy both the king and the princes there, saith the LORD. 39. But in time to come I will turn again the prison of Elam, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah) Chapter 50 Destruction of Babylon. Redemption of the Jewish people. 1. This is the word which the LORD spake by Jeremiah the prophet against Babylon, and against the land of the Chaldeans: 2. Proclaim among the heathen, and let it be heard; lift up a banner. Let it be heard, and hide it not, saying, Babylon is taken, Bel is confounded, Merodach is broken, her idols are confounded, and her gods are broken. 3. For a people shall come up against them from the north, and shall make their land desolate, and none shall dwell therein: and they shall flee away, both men and cattle. 4. In those days and at that time, saith the LORD, shall the children of Israel come with the children of Judah, weeping, and seeking the LORD their God. 5. They shall seek the way to Zion, and there shall they turn: Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD with an everlasting covenant, which shall never be forgotten. 6. For my people are as a lost flock: their shepherds have deceived them, and caused them to go astray upon the mountains, and they have gone from mountains to hills, and have forgotten their obstacles. 7. All that they met with they devoured: and their enemies said: We do not wrong, because they have sinned against the LORD in the tabernacle of righteousness, and against the LORD, which is the hope of their fathers. 8. Flee from Babylon, and go out of the land of the Chaldeans, and stand as goats before the flock. 9. For, behold, I will raise up great nations with multitudes out of the land toward the north, and will bring them up against Babylon, and they shall arm themselves against them, and they shall prevail against them: his arrows are as the arrows of a good warrior that faileth not. 10. And the land of the Chaldeans shall be a spoil; and all they that spoil it shall have enough of it, saith the LORD, 11. Therefore rejoice ye, and boast that ye have plundered my inheritance, and leech like the horny calves, and neigh like the strong horses. 12. Your mother standeth with great shame, and she that bare you is a mockery: behold, she is the least among the heathen, desolate, barren, and waste. 13. For before the wrath of the LORD it shall be uninhabited, and utterly desolate: and all that pass over before Babylon shall marvel and whistle at all the plague thereof. 14. Set yourselves about against Babylon, all ye archers; shoot into her, spare not the arrows: for she hath sinned against the LORD. 15. Rejoice over her round about; she shall give herself up: her foundations are fallen, her walls are broken down: for this is the LORD'S vengeance. Take vengeance upon her; do unto her as she hath done. 16. Cut off from Babylon both the sower and the reaper of the harvest, that they may turn every man to his own people before the sword of the tyrant, and that they may flee every man to his own land. 17. Israel hath been a scattered flock, which the lions have driven away. First the king of Assyria devoured them, and afterward Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon overcame them. 18. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will visit the king of Babylon, and his land, as I visited the king of Assyria. 19. And I will bring Israel again unto his habitation, and they shall feed in Carmel and Bashan, and their soul shall be satisfied in mount Ephraim and Gilead. 20. In that day and time shall the iniquity of Israel be sought, saith the LORD, but there shall be none: and the sin of Judah, but there shall be none found: for I will forgive them of them that remain. 21. Send up against the land that hath made all things bitter; send up against the inhabitants of the visitation; devastate and banish their seed, saith the LORD, and do all that I have commanded thee. 22. There is a cry of war in the land, and great lamentation. 23. How is it that the hammer of the whole world is broken and shattered? How is it that Babylon is become a desolation among all the nations? 24. I have delivered thee, O Babylon; therefore thou art taken before thou knowest: thou art smitten and taken, because thou hast trespassed against the LORD. 25. The LORD hath opened his treasure, and brought forth the weapons of his wrath: for the LORD of hosts hath shewed it in the land of the Chaldeans. 26. Come up against her, ye of the end, open her granaries, cast them into a heap, and banish her, that nothing be left unto her. 27. Slay all their oxen, bring them down to the slaughter. Woe unto them! For the day is come, the time of their visitation. 28. The cry of the fugitives, and of them that escape out of the land of Babylon, is heard, that they may declare in Zion the vengeance of the LORD our God, and the vengeance of his temple. 29. Call many against Babylon, besiege her round about, all the archers, and let none escape: repay her according to her deserts; as she hath done, so do ye again. For she has acted proudly against the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, 30. Therefore their young men shall fall in their streets, and all their men of war shall perish in that day, saith the LORD: 31. Behold, thou proud one, I will be with thee, saith the LORD of hosts: for thy day is come, the time of thy visitation. 32. And the proud man shall fall, and fall down, and no man shall lift him up: and I will set his cities on fire, and it shall devour all that is round about him. 33. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, the children of Israel, and the children of Judah, suffer violence and wrong: all that carried them away captive hold them, and will not let them go. 34. But their Redeemer is strong, whose name is the LORD of hosts: he shall accomplish their cause, and shall make the land to shake, and the inhabitants of Babylon to tremble. 35. The sword shall come, saith the LORD, upon the Chaldeans, and upon the inhabitants of Babylon, and upon their princes, and upon their wise men. 36. The sword shall come upon their diviners, and they shall become fools. A sword shall come upon their mighty men, and they shall despair. 37. And the sword shall come upon their horses, and upon their chariots, and upon all the people that are therein, and they shall become women. The sword shall come upon their treasures, and they shall be spoiled. 38. Dryness shall come upon their waters, and they shall be dried up: for it is an idolatrous land, and they defy their abominable idols. 39. Therefore the great beasts and the fowls shall dwell therein, and the young ostriches: it shall never be inhabited, neither shall any man dwell therein for ever, 40. As God turned back Sodom and Gomorrah with their neighbours, saith the LORD, that no man dwelleth therein, neither dwelleth therein. 41. Behold, a people cometh from the north: many nations and many kings shall arise from the side of the land. 42. They have bows and shields, they are cruel and ruthless; their shout is like the roar of the sea; they ride upon horses, armed as men of war against thee, O daughter of Babylon. 43. When the king of Babylon heareth of their tidings, his fists shall fall out: he shall be as afraid as a woman in childbearing. 44. Behold, he cometh up as a lion from the proud Jordan against the strong holds: for there will I make him to run in haste. And who knoweth who the young man is, whom I will prepare against them? For who is like unto me? Who will master me, and who is the shepherd that can withstand me? 45. Hear therefore the counsel of the LORD, which he hath concerning Babylon, and the thoughts which he hath concerning the inhabitants of the land of the Chaldeans. What matter if the shepherds drag them, and destroy their habitation? 46. And the earth shall shake with the cry, and shall resound among the nations, when Babylon shall be won. (Jeremiah) Chapter 51 The prophecy of the destruction of Babylon is repeated and confirmed. 1. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will raise up a sharp wind against Babylon, and against her inhabitants, which have set themselves against me. 2. And I will send also whoremongers to Babylon, and they shall whoremonger them, and sweep out their land, which shall be round about them in the day of their calamity. 3. For their archers shall not shoot, and their armour shall not be able to defend themselves. Now therefore spare not her young men, banish all her host, 4. That the slain should lie there in the land of the Chaldeans, and the slain in their streets. 5. For Israel and Judah shall not be left widows of their God, the LORD of hosts. For that land hath borrowed heavily of the Holy One in Israel. 6. Flee from Babylon, that every man may save his soul, that ye perish not in their iniquity. For this is the time of the vengeance of the LORD, who is a revenger, and will pay them. 7. The golden cup of Babylon, which made all the world drunken, is in the hand of the LORD. All the heathen have drunk of her wine: therefore have the heathen become great. 8. How suddenly is Babylon fallen and broken! Hail over her, and take ointment for her wounds, that she may be healed. 9. We heal Babylon, but she will not be healed. Let her therefore depart, and let us go every man to his own land. For her punishment reacheth unto heaven, And reacheth up to the clouds. 10. The LORD hath brought forth our righteousness. Come, let us tell in Zion the works of the LORD our God. 11. Now therefore polish ye the arrows, and prepare ye the shields. The LORD hath stirred up the courage of the kings of Media. For his thoughts are against Babylon, to destroy her: for this is the vengeance of the LORD, the vengeance of his temple. 12. Now therefore set a watch upon the walls of Babylon; take ye the guard, set ye the watch, set ye the watch. For the LORD remembereth, and will do, what he hath spoken against the inhabitants of Babylon. 13. Thou that dwellest by great waters, and hast great treasures: thine end is come, and thy covetousness is ended. 14. The LORD of hosts hath sworn by his soul: I will fill thee with men, as with beetles, and they shall sing unto thee, 15. Who made the earth by his power, and prepared the world by his wisdom, and prepared the heavens in order. 16. When he thundereth, there is multitude of waters under heaven; he causeth the mists to come up from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings in the rain, and sendeth the wind out of secret places. 17. All men are fools in their art, and all goldsmiths are ashamed of their images: for their idols are deceitfulness, and have no life. 18. It is vain nothing, and deceitful work; they must perish when they are afflicted. 19. But he that is Jacob's treasure is not he; but he that maketh all things is he; and Israel is the rod of his inheritance. His name is called the LORD of hosts. 20. Thou art my hammer, my weapon of war: by thee have I broken in pieces the heathen, and destroyed the kingdoms. 21. I will break in pieces thy horses and thy horsemen; I will break in pieces thy chariots and thy horsemen; 22. I will break in pieces thy husbands and thy wives; I will break in pieces thy old men and thy young men; I will break in pieces thy young men and thy maidens; 23. I will break in pieces thy shepherds and thy flocks; I will break in pieces thy peasants and thy yoke; I will break in pieces thy princes and thy lords. 24. For I will recompense Babylon, and all the inhabitants of the Chaldeans, for all their wickedness which they have committed against Zion in your sight, saith the LORD. 25. Behold, I am against thee, thou evil mountain, which destroyest all the earth, saith the LORD; I will stretch out mine hand upon thee, and will roll thee down from the rock, and will make thee a burnt mountain, 26. That neither corner stone nor foundation stone may be taken out of thee, but thou shalt be an everlasting desolation, saith the LORD. 27. Throw up bands in the land, blow ye the trumpets among the nations, sanctify the heathen against them; call against them the kingdoms of Ararat, Meni, and Askenaz; appoint captains against them; bring up horses like fluttering beetles. 28. Sanctify the heathen against them, even the kings of Media, with all their princes and lords, and all the land of their dominion. 29. And the land shall shake, and be afraid: for the thoughts of the LORD will be fulfilled against Babylon, to make the land of Babylon a desolation, wherein no man dwelleth. 30. The mighty men of Babylon shall not go forth into the field, but shall abide in the fortress. Their strength is gone, and they are become women; their dwellings are set on fire, and their bars are broken. 31. Here and there one goeth out to meet another, and here and there one message meeteth another, to tell the king of Babylon that his city is won unto the end, 32. and the fords were taken, and the lakes were burned, and the men of war were dumb. 33. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; The daughter of Babylon is like a threshingfloor, when it is threshed: her harvest shall come in quickly. 34. Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon hath devoured me, and slain me; he hath made me an empty vessel; he hath swallowed me up like a dragon; he hath filled his belly with my baseness; he hath cast me out. 35. But now the iniquity of me is found upon Babylon, and my flesh, saith the inhabitant of Zion, and my blood upon the inhabitants of Chaldea, saith Jerusalem. 36. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will accomplish thy cause, and avenge thee; I will dry up their sea, and make their fountains dry. 37. And Babylon shall become a heap of stones, and a dragon's habitation, and a wonder, and a whistle; that no man dwell therein. 38. They shall roar together as lions, and shout as young lions. 39. I will put them to the heat with their drinking, and will make them drunken, and they shall be merry, and sleep an everlasting sleep, from whence they shall never awake, saith the LORD. 40. I will bring them down as lambs to the slaughter, as rams with goats. 41. How is Seshach so won, and the famed in all the earth so taken! How has Babel become such a wonder among the nations! 42. A sea is gone over Babylon; and she is covered with the multitude of the same waves. 43. Their cities are become a wilderness, and a dry and desolate land, in the land where no man dwelleth within, and where no man walketh within. 44. For I have visited the Bel of Babylon, and have plucked out of his mouth that which he devoured: and the heathen shall run no more unto him: for the walls of Babylon also are broken down. 45. Go forth, my people, and save every man his soul from the fierce anger of the LORD. 46. Or else your heart shall wax faint, and be troubled for the cry that shall be heard in the land. For there shall be a cry in one year, and after that in another year, a cry of violence in the land; and there shall be one prince against another. 47. Therefore, behold, the days come, that I will punish the idols of Babylon, and all their land shall be ashamed, and their slain shall lie within. 48. And the earth and all that is therein shall shout for joy over Babylon, because her destroyers are come from the north, saith the LORD. 49. And as Babylon hath killed the slain in Israel, so shall the slain be killed in Babylon throughout all the land. 50. Go ye therefore, ye that are escaped from the sword, and tarry not. Remember the LORD in a far country, and let Jerusalem be in your hearts. 51. We were put to shame, when we heard the reproach, and the shame covered our faces, when the strangers came upon the sanctuary of the house of the LORD. 22. Therefore, behold, the time cometh, saith the LORD, that I will visit their idols; and throughout all the land the deadly wounded shall groan. 53. And if Babylon ascend up to heaven, and establish her power on high, yet shall destroyers come upon her from me, saith the LORD. 54. There is a cry in Babylon, and a great lamentation in the land of the Chaldeans. 55. For the LORD hath destroyed Babylon; he hath destroyed her with a great cry and with a great tumult; her waves roar as the great waters. 56. For the destroyer is come upon Babylon; her mighty men are taken, her bows are broken: for the God of vengeance, the LORD, payeth them. 57. I will make their princes, and their wise men, and their lords, and their captains, and their valiant men, drunken; and they shall sleep an everlasting sleep, and shall never awake, saith the King, whose name is LORD of hosts. 58. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; The walls of great Babylon shall be broken down, and the high gates thereof shall be set on fire; and the labour of the nations shall be lost, and that which the nations have built with their labour shall be burnt up. 59. This is the word which Jeremiah the prophet commanded Seraiah the son of Neriah the son of Mahseah, when he went with Zedekiah king of Judah to Babylon in the fourth year of his reign. And Seraiah was a peaceable prince. 60. And Jeremiah wrote all the evil that should come upon Babylon in a book, even all these words that are written against Babylon, 61. And Jeremiah said unto Seraiah, When thou comest to Babylon, watch and read all these words. 62. And say, Lord, thou hast spoken against this place, to cut it off, that no man nor beast should dwell therein, but that it should be desolate for ever. 63. And when thou hast finished reading the book, bind a stone unto it, and cast it into the river. 64. And say, So shall Babylon be sunk, and shall not rise again from the evil that I will bring upon her, but shall perish. Thus far off hath Jeremiah spoken. (Jeremiah) Chapter 52 Destruction of the city of Jerusalem. Jehoiachin's exaltation. 1. Zedekiah was twenty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Hamutal, a daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah. 2. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as Jehoiakim had done. 3. For the anger of the LORD was upon Jerusalem and Judah, until he cast them out of his sight. And Zedekiah fell away from the king of Babylon. 4. And in the ninth year of his reign, in the tenth day of the tenth month, came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and all his host against Jerusalem, and besieged her, and made a fort round about. 5. And so the city remained besieged until the eleventh year of Zedekiah the king. 6. And on the ninth day of the fourth month the famine prevailed in the city, and the people of the land had no more to eat. 7. And they entered into the city, and all the men of war gave flight, and went out of the city by night by the way of the gate between the two walls, unto the king's garden. And the Chaldeans were round about the city. 8. And as they went by the way of the field, the army of the Chaldeans pursued after the king, and took Zedekiah in the field near Jericho: and all his army was scattered from him. 9. And they took the king, and brought him up to the king of Babylon to Riblath, which is in the land of Hemath: and he pronounced judgment against him. 10. And the king of Babylon slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and slew all the princes of Judah in Riblath. 11. And he put out Zedekiah's eyes, and bound him with two chains: and the king of Babylon brought him to Babylon, and put him in prison, until he died. 12: And it came to pass on the tenth day of the fifth month, which is the nineteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, that Nebuzar-Adan the captain of the guard, which was always about the king of Babylon, came to Jerusalem. 13. And he burnt the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem; all the great houses burnt he with fire. 14. And all the host of the Chaldeans that were with the captain of the guard brake down all the walls of Jerusalem round about. 15. And the poor people, and the rest of the people that were left in the city, and them that fell to the king of Babylon, and the rest of the craftsmen, did Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard carry away captive. 16. And of the poor of the country Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard left husbandmen and husbandmen. 17. And the pillars of brass that were in the house of the LORD, and the bases, and the brasen sea that was in the house of the LORD, the Chaldeans brake, and carried all the brass of them to Babylon. 18. And they took away the caldrons, and the shovels, and the knives, and the basons, and the ladles, and all the vessels of brass that were used in the service. 19. And the centurion took the vessels of gold and silver, and the censers, and the basons, and the censers, and the candlesticks, and the spoons, and the bowls, 20. The two pillars, and the one sea, and the twelve oxen of brass that stood for the stalls, which king Solomon had made for the house of the LORD. All these vessels of brass were exceeding great. 21. And the two pillars were every one eighteen cubits high, and a cord twelve cubits long reached round about it, and was four fingers thick, and hollow within. 22. And there stood upon every one a brass knob five cubits high; and the ripening and the pomegranates were upon every knob round about, all of brass: and one pillar was like unto another, and the pomegranates also. 23: There were ninety and six pomegranates: and there were an hundred of all the pomegranates in one bunch round about. 24. And the captain of the guard took Seraiah the priest of the first order, and Zephaniah the priest of the second order, and three doorkeepers. 25. And a chamberlain out of the city, which was set over the men of war, and seven men that should be about the king, which were found in the city, and Shopher the captain of the host, which was over the people of the land, and threescore men of the people of the land, which were found in the city. 26. And Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard took them, and brought them unto the king of Babylon to Riblath. 27. And the king of Babylon smote them dead in Riblath, which is in the land of Hemath. So Judah was carried away out of his land. 28. These are the people which Nebuchadnezzar carried away, even in the seventh year three thousand and three hundred and twenty Jews, 29. And in the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar, eight hundred thirty and two souls out of Jerusalem. 30. And in the twenty and third year of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard carried away seven hundred forty and five souls out of Judah. All the souls were four thousand and six hundred. 31. And in the thirty and seventh year after that Jehoiachin king of Judah was carried away, in the five and twentieth day of the twelfth month, Evil-merodach king of Babylon, in the year that he reigned, took up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah, and brought him out of prison. 32. And he spake kindly unto him, and set his throne over the kings' throne that were with him at Babylon. 33. And he changed his prison garments for him, that he might eat before him all the days of his life. 34. And he was always given his entertainment by the king of Babylon, as he was commanded, all the days of his life, even unto the end of his days. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Lamentations of Jeremiah (Lamentations) ^ Chapter 1 The Jewish people's state of misery. 1. How desolate is that city, which was full of people! She is like a widow. She that was a princess among the nations, and a queen in the countries, is now a servant. 2. She weepeth at night, and tears run down her cheeks. There is none among all her friends to comfort her: all her neighbours despise her, and are become her enemies. 3. Judah is in bondage, and in hard service; she dwelleth among the heathen, and findeth no rest; all her persecutors. hold her iniquitously. 4. The highways of Zion are desolate, because no man cometh to any feast; all her gates stand desolate; her priests groan, and her virgins look desolate, and she is afflicted. 5. Their adversaries are lifted up, their enemies prosper: for the LORD hath made them full of grief for their great sins; and their children are carried captive before the enemy. 6. All the glory is gone out of the daughter of Zion. Her princes are like the rams that find no pasture, and go dimly before the beater. 7: Jerusalem thinketh at this time how wretched and desolate she is, and how much good she hath had of old, because all her people lie low under the enemy, and no man helpeth her: her enemies see their pleasure in her, and mock at her sabbaths. 8. Jerusalem hath sinned; therefore she is as an unclean woman. All that honoured her spurned her, because they saw her shame: but she sighed, and returned. 9. Her filthiness is upon her hem. She would not have thought that this would be her last fate. She is cast down too grievously, and hath no one to comfort her. O Lord, behold my affliction: for the enemy is very great. 10. The enemy hath laid his hand upon all her treasures: for she hath suffered the heathen to enter into her sanctuary, whereof thou commandedst that they should not enter into thy congregation. 11. All her people groan, and go for bread: they give their small things for meat, that they may refresh the soul. O Lord, behold, and see how vile I am become! 12. I say unto you all that pass by, Look ye, and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow, which is fallen upon me. For the LORD hath made me full of grief in the day of his fierce anger. 13. He hath sent a fire from on high into my legs, and hath made it to work; he hath put a net upon my feet, and hath turned me back; he hath made me a desolation, that I should mourn daily. 14. My grievous sins are awake by his punishment, and are heaped upon my neck, that all my strength is gone out of me. The LORD hath brought me to the point that I cannot arise. 15. The LORD hath trodden down all my mighty men that I had; he hath proclaimed a feast upon me, to destroy my young men. The LORD hath trampled the winepress of the virgin daughter of Judah. 16. Therefore I weep, and both mine eyes run with water, because the Comforter that should have refreshed my soul is far from me. My children are gone, for the enemy hath prevailed. 17. Zion stretcheth out her hands, and there is none to comfort her: for the LORD hath commanded his enemies round about Jacob, that Jerusalem should be as an unclean woman among them. 18. The LORD is righteous: for I have disobeyed his mouth. Hear, all ye nations, and see my grief. My virgins and my young men are gone into prison. 19. I called upon my friends, but they deceived me. My priests and my elders in the city are famished, for they go after bread, that they may feed their souls; 20. O Lord, behold, I am afraid, because it grieveth me in my belly. My heart walleth in my flesh: for I am greatly distressed. Outside the sword hath made me, and in the house death hath made me a widow. 21. It is heard that I groan, and have no comforter: all mine enemies hear my calamities, and rejoice: this doest thou. Let the day come, then, which thou hast proclaimed, that they may be like me. 22. Let all their wickedness come before thee, and judge them, as thou hast judged me for all mine iniquity: for my sighing is much, and my heart is grieved. (Lamentations) Chapter 2 Mourning song about the utter defeat of the daughter of Zion. 1. How hath the LORD poured out his wrath upon the daughter of Zion! He hath cast the glory of Israel from heaven to earth. He hath not remembered his footstool in the day of his wrath. 2. The LORD hath destroyed all the dwellings of Jacob without mercy: he hath broken down the strongholds of the daughter of Judah in his fury, and hath broken them down; he hath profaned both her kingdom and her princes. 3. He hath broken all the horn of Israel in his fierce anger; he hath drawn his right hand behind him when the enemy came, and hath kindled a fire in Jacob, and it hath consumed him round about; 4. He hath bent his bow like an enemy; he hath wielded his right hand like an adversary, and hath slain all that was pleasant to the sight, and hath poured out his fury like fire in the tabernacle of the daughter of Zion. 5. The LORD is as an enemy: he hath destroyed Israel, he hath destroyed all their palaces, he hath destroyed their strongholds; he hath caused the daughter of Judah much mourning and sorrow; 6. He hath made his tent desolate like a garden, and hath made his tabernacle desolate. The LORD hath forgotten both the feast day and the sabbath in Zion, and in his fierce anger hath defiled both king and priest. 7. The LORD hath rejected his altar, and hath utterly destroyed his sanctuary; he hath delivered the walls of their palaces into the hand of the enemy; and they have cried out in the house of the LORD, as on a solemn day. 8. The LORD hath purposed to destroy the walls of the daughter of Zion: he hath drawn the rod over them, and hath not turned his hand from them, till he destroy them: the walls are pitiful, and the wall lieth desolate. 9. Their gates are deep in the earth: he hath broken their bars, and made them void. Their kings and their princes are among the heathen, because they cannot practice the law, and their prophets have no vision from the LORD. 10. The elders of the daughter of Zion lie on the earth, and are quiet; they cast dust upon their heads, and have put on sackcloth: the virgins of Jerusalem hang their heads to the ground. 11. I have almost wept my eyes out, and it grieveth me in my belly: my liver is poured out upon the earth for the mourning of the daughter of my people, because the babes and sucklings are fainting in the streets of the city, 12. Saying unto their mothers: Where is bread and wine? when they fainted in the streets of the city, as the fatally wounded, and gave up the ghost in the arms of their mothers. 13. O daughter of Jerusalem, to whom shall I liken thee, and for what shall I count thee, O virgin daughter of Zion? To whom shall I liken thee, that I may comfort thee? For thy hurt is great, as the sea; who can heal thee? 14. Thy prophets have preached unto thee evil and foolish visions, and have not revealed unto thee thine iniquity, that they might keep thee in prison; but have preached unto thee evil preaching, that they might preach thee abroad. 15. All that pass by clap their hands, and whistle at thee, and shake their heads at the daughter of Jerusalem: is this the city that was said to be the most beautiful, that all the land rejoiced in? 16. All thine enemies open their mouths against thee, and whistle at thee, and gnash their teeth, and say: We have destroyed them; this is the day of which we have desired; we have obtained it, we have seen it. 17. The LORD hath done that which he purposed; he hath fulfilled his word, which he commanded long before; he hath destroyed without mercy; he hath made glad the enemy against thee, and hath heard the horn of thine adversaries. 18. Her heart cried unto the LORD. O thou wall of the daughter of Zion, let tears flow down day and night like a brook; cease not also, and let not the apple of thine eye depart. 19. Arise in the night, and cry; pour out thine heart in the first watch against the LORD as water; lift up thy hands against him for the souls of thy young children, which faint for hunger in the front of every street. 20. Look, O LORD, and see whom thou hast so corrupted. Shall the women of her womb eat the fruit of her womb, and the youngest of her children by a span? Shall prophets and priests be slain in the sanctuary of the LORD? 21. Boys and old men lay in the streets of the earth: my virgins and my young men fell by the sword. Thou hast slain in the day of thy wrath: thou hast slain without mercy. 22. Thou hast called mine enemies round about, as on a solemn day; that none escaped, nor remained, in the day of the LORD'S wrath. Those whom I have nourished and brought up, the enemy hath slain. (Lamentations) Chapter 3 Lament and Consolation. 1. I am a wretched man, which must see the rod of his fury. 2. He hath led me, and made me go into darkness, and not into light. 3. He hath turned his hand against me, and hath dealt otherwise with me for all things. 4. He hath made old my flesh and my skin, and hath bruised my bones. 5. He hath built me up, and compassed me about with gall and trouble. 6. He hath laid me in darkness, as the dead in the world. 7. He hath walled me up, that I cannot come out; he hath put me in hard bonds. 8. And though I cry and shout, he stoppeth mine ears at my prayer. 9. He hath walled up my way with pieces, and turned back my path. 10. He lay in wait for me like a bear, like a lion in secret. 11. He hath made me to lack the way. He hath cut me in pieces, and made me vile. 12. He hath bent his bow, and hath put me to the point of the arrow. 13. He shot from the quiver into my kidneys. 14. I am a mockery to all my people, and daily, their song. 15. He hath satiated me with bitterness, and made me drunken with wormwood. 16. He hath broken my teeth into small pieces. He rolled me in the ashes. 17. My soul is cast out of peace; I must forget the good. 18. And I said, My fortune is gone, and my hope is in the LORD. 19. Remember how I am so miserable and forsaken, soaked with wormwood and gall. 20. Thou shalt remember it, for my soul saith unto me. 21. I take that to heart, so I'm still hoping. 22. The goodness of the LORD is, that we are not finished: his mercy hath no end, 23. But it is new every morning, and thy faithfulness is great. 24. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25. For the LORD is good to him that waiteth for him, and to the soul that seeketh him. 26. It is a precious thing to be patient, and to hope in the help of the LORD. 27. It is a precious thing for a man to bear the yoke in his youth, 28. That a forsaken man be patient when anything assails him, 29. and put his mouth in the dust, and wait for hope 30. And let him be smitten on the cheeks, and put upon him much reproach. 31. For the LORD doth not cast out for ever, 32. but he will have mercy again according to his great kindness; 33. Because he afflicteth not men with his heart, neither grieveth them, 34. As if he would tread all the captives of the earth under his feet. 35. And let a man's right be bent before the Most High. 36. And let a man's cause be perverted, as though the LORD saw it not. 37. Who then can say that these things are done without the commandment of the LORD? 38. And that neither evil nor good come out of the mouth of the Most High? 39. How then do men murmur in life? Let every man murmur against his sin. 40. And let us search and search our nature, and turn unto the LORD. 41. Let us lift up our hearts with our hands to God in heaven. 42. We have sinned and been disobedient. Therefore thou hast not spared, 43. But thou hast poured out wrath upon us, and persecuted us, and slain us without mercy. 44. thou hast covered thyself with a cloud, that no prayer could pass through. 45. thou hast made us dung and filth among the nations. 46. All our enemies open their mouths against us. 47. We are pressed and afflicted with terror and fear. 48. Mine eyes run with rivers of water over the affliction of the daughter of my people. 49. My eyes flow, and cannot cease; for there is no cessation, 50. Until the LORD look down from heaven, and see therein. 51. my eye eats away my life for the daughter of my city. 22. Mine enemies have chased me as a bird without a cause. Fifty-three. They killed my life in a pit and threw stones at me. 54. They have also poured water upon my head. Then said I, Now am I gone. 55. But I called upon thy name, O LORD, from beneath the pit; 56. And thou heardest my voice. Hide not thine ears from my groaning and my crying! 57. Draw nigh unto me when I call thee, and say, Fear not. 58. Lead, O Lord, the cause of my soul, and redeem my life! 29. O Lord, see how I am wronged, and help me to my right! 26. Thou seest all their vengeance, and all their thoughts against me. 11. O LORD, thou hearest their reproach, and all their thoughts concerning me, 62. The lips of mine adversaries, and their poems against me daily. 33. Behold, they go down, or they rise up, they sing of me a little song. 4. Reward them, O Lord, according to their deserts. 65. Let their hearts be troubled, and let them feel your curse! 66. Pursue them with fury, and destroy them under the heaven of the LORD! (Lamentations) Chapter 4 Lamentation over the affliction of the Jews. 1. How the gold is so darkened, and the fine gold is so ugly, and the stones of the sanctuary lie scattered in the front of every street! 2. The noble children of Zion, which are like unto gold, how are they now compared unto earthen pots, which a potter maketh! 3. The dragons give their breasts unto their young, and suckle them: but the daughter of my people must be unmerciful, as an ostrich in the wilderness. 4. The infant's tongue cleaveth to the roof of his mouth for thirst: the young children cry for bread, and there is none to break it for them. 5. They that ate the sweetest things before, now languish in the streets: they that were brought up in silks before, now must lie in dung. 6. The iniquity of the daughter of my people is greater than the sin of Sodom, which was turned back suddenly, and there came no hand to it. 7. Their Nazarites were purer than snow, and clearer than milk; their form was redder than coral; their appearance was like sapphire. 8. But now their form is so dark with blackness, that they are not known in the streets: their skin hangeth upon their legs, and they are as thin as a log. 9. It happened unto them that were slain by the sword, that they died of hunger, that fainted, and were slain for want of the fruit of the field. 10. The most merciful women have cooked their own children, that they might eat in the affliction of the daughter of my people. 11. The LORD hath executed his fury, he hath poured out his fierce anger; he hath kindled a fire in Zion, which hath consumed the foundations thereof. 12. The kings of the earth believed it not, neither all the people of the world, that the adversary and the enemy should enter into the gates of Jerusalem. 13. And it was because of the sin of their prophets, and because of the iniquity of their priests, that they shed the blood of the righteous within. 14. They went to and fro in the streets like the blind, and were stained with blood, and could not touch their garments, 15. But called unto them: Depart, ye unclean; depart, depart; touch nothing. For they were afraid of them, and fled from them: so that it was said among the heathen also, They shall not tarry long there. 16. Wherefore the anger of the LORD hath scattered them, and will not look upon them any more, because they honoured not the priests, nor showed mercy unto the elders. 17. Yet our eyes gaped at the vain help, till they were wearied at once, as we waited for a people that after all could not help us. 18. We were chased, that we should not walk in our streets. Then came our end: our days are ended, and our end is come. 19. Our pursuers were swifter than the eagles of heaven: they pursued us upon the mountains, and lay in wait for us in the wilderness. 20. The anointed of the LORD, which was our consolation, was taken captive, when they disturbed us, whom we comforted ourselves to live under his shadow among the heathen. 21. Yea, be glad and rejoice, O daughter of Edom, which dwellest in the land of Uz: for the cup shall come upon thee also, thou also shalt be drunken and blessed; 22. But thine iniquity is ended, O daughter of Zion; he will no more suffer thee to depart: but thine iniquity, O daughter of Edom, he will punish, and he will find out thy sins. (Lamentations) Chapter 5 Jeremiah's prayer for deliverance of the evil afflicted Jewish people. 1. Remember, O Lord, how we are: look and see our reproach. 2. Our inheritance is given to strangers, and our houses to foreigners. 3. We are orphans, and have no father: our mothers are as widows. 4. Our own water we must drink for money; our wood we must have brought for a price. 5. we are driven about by the neck, and though we are weary, yet they will not let us rest. 6. We have yielded ourselves unto Egypt and Assyria, that we may have bread to eat. 7. Our fathers have sinned, and are no more: and we must recompense their iniquity. 8. Servants rule over us, and there is none to deliver us out of their hand. 9. We must take our bread with the sword of our life before the sword in the wilderness. 10. our skin is burned as in a furnace from the abominable hunger. 11. They have weakened the women of Zion, and the virgins of the cities of Judah. 12. The princes are gone from them, and the persons of the ancients are not honoured. 13. The young men have borne millstones, and the lads have stumbled at the carrying of wood. 14. The old men sit no more under the gate, neither do the young men play with strings. 15. The joy of our heart is ended; our song is turned into lamentation. 16. The crown of our head is fallen off. O woe, that we have sinned so! 17. Therefore also our heart is grieved, and our eyes are darkened. 18. For the mountain of Zion's sake, because it lieth desolate, and the foxes run upon it. 19. But thou, O LORD, which abidest for ever, and thy throne for ever, 20. Why wilt thou so utterly forget ours, and so utterly forsake the length of us? 21. Bring us again, O LORD, that we may return unto thee: make our days as of old. 22. For thou hast rejected us, and art too wroth with us. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel) ^ Chapter 1 Face of the spread of Christ's kingdom through the preaching ministry. 1. In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, when I was among the captives by the waters of Chebar, the heavens were opened, and God showed me visions. 2. This fifth day of the month was the fifth year since Jehoiachin king of Judah was carried away captive. 3. And the word of the LORD came unto Ezekiel the son of Busi the priest in the land of the Chaldeans, by the river Chebar; and there the hand of the LORD was upon him. 4. And I looked, and, behold, there came a rushing wind from the north, with a great cloud full of fire shining round about: and in the midst of the same fire there was as it were light. 5. And within was fashioned like four beasts, and among them one fashioned like a man. 6. And every one had four faces, and four wings. 7. And their legs were straight, but their feet were like round feet, and shone as bright brass. 8. And had men's hands under their wings in their four places: for they had all four their faces and their wings. 9. And the same wings were one upon another. And when they went, they were not to turn about, but whithersoever they went, they went straight before them. 10. Their faces on the right side of the fours were like unto a man and a lion: but on the left side of the fours their faces were like unto an ox and an eagle. 11. And their faces and their wings were parted above, and two wings were clasped together, and two wings covered their bodies. 12. Whither they went, they went straight before them: but they went whithersoever the wind blew, and could not turn when they went. 13. And the beasts were seen as coals of fire burning, and as torches going among the beasts. And the fire gave forth a brightness, and out of the fire proceeded lightning. 14. And the beasts ran to and fro like lightning. 15. And when I saw the beasts, behold, a wheel stood upon the earth by the four beasts, and was as four wheels to look upon. 16. And the same wheels were like unto turquoise, and all four of them were one like unto another: and they were as one wheel in another to look upon. 17. And when they should go, they could go into all their four places, and could not turn when they went. 18. Their figs and their height were terrible; and their rims were full of eyes round about on all four wheels. 19. And when the beasts went, the wheels went also beside them: and when the beasts lifted themselves up from the earth, the wheels lifted themselves up also. 20. Whithersoever the wind went, they went also; and the wheels went up beside them: for there was a living wind in the wheels. 21. When they went, these also went; and when they kept, these also kept; and when they lifted themselves up from the earth, the wheels also lifted themselves up beside them: for there was a living wind in the wheels. 22. And above the beasts it was fashioned like the heaven, as a crystal, terrible, spread straight up above them, 23. And under heaven their wings were stretched out one against another, and every man's body was covered with two wings. 24. And I heard the wings as the great waters, and as the sound of the Almighty when they went, and as the tumult of an army. And when they were still, they let down their wings. 25. And when they sat still, and let down their wings, there was a thunder in heaven above them. 26. And above the heaven that was above them was fashioned like a sapphire, like a chair: and upon the same chair sat one fashioned like a man. 27. And I looked, and, behold, it was as the brightness of light; and within it was fashioned like fire round about. From the loins thereof above, and from the loins thereof beneath, I saw it shining like fire round about. 28. As the rainbow standeth in the clouds, when it rained, so it shined round about. This was the appearance of the glory of the Lord. And when I had seen it, I fell on my face, and heard one speak. (Ezekial) Chapter 2 Ezekiel's call to the prophetic office. 1. And he said unto me, Son of man, stand upon thy feet, and I will speak unto thee. 2. And when he spake thus unto me, I was refreshed, and stood upon my feet, and hearkened unto him that spake unto me. 3. And he said unto me, Son of man, I send thee unto the children of Israel, to the apostate people, which have gone astray from me. They and their fathers have done evil against me unto this day. 4. But the children to whom I send thee have hard heads and hardened hearts. To them shalt thou say, Thus saith the Lord GOD. 5. They shall obey, or else they shall not obey. It is a disobedient house: nevertheless they shall know that there is a prophet among them. 6. And thou, son of man, shalt not fear them, nor be afraid of their words. There are thorns among thee, stubborn and prickly, and thou dwellest among scorpions: but thou shalt not be afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their faces, though they be a rebellious house, 7. But thou shalt tell them my word, and they shall obey, or else they shall not: for they are a rebellious people. 8. But thou, son of man, hear thou what I say unto thee, and be not disobedient, as the disobedient house is. Open your mouth and eat what I will give you. 9. And I looked, and, behold, there was a hand stretched out toward me, having a letter folded up. 10. This she spread out before me, and it was written within and without; and within it was written: Lamentation, and woe. Ch. 3, v. 1. And he said unto me, Son of man, eat that which is before thee, even this letter, and go and preach unto the house of Israel. 2. And I opened my mouth, and he gave me the letter to eat. 3. And said unto me, Son of man, thou must eat this letter which I give thee into thy womb, and fill thy belly therewith. So I ate it, and it was in my mouth as sweet as honey. 4. And he said unto me, Son of man, go unto the house of Israel, and preach my word unto them. 5. For I send thee not unto a people that have a strange speech and an unknown language, but unto the house of Israel; 6. Not, indeed, to great nations, which have strange speech and unknown language, whose words thou canst not hear. Even if I sent thee to them, they would gladly hear thee. 7. But the house of Israel will not hear thee; for they themselves will not hear me: for all the house of Israel have hard faces, and hardened hearts. 8. Yet have I made thy face hard against their faces, and thy forehead against their foreheads. 9. Yea, I have made thy forehead as hard as a demon, harder than a rock. Therefore fear not, neither be dismayed at them, because they are a rebellious house. (Ezekial) Chapter 3 The prophet is led to Babel. 10. And he said unto me, Son of man, all my words which I say unto thee, lay hold on them with thine heart, and receive them in thine ears. 11. And go unto the captives of thy people, and preach unto them, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; they will hear, or they will forbear. 12. And a wind lifted me up, and I heard behind me a sound as of a great earthquake: Blessed be the glory of the LORD in their place. 13. And there was a sound of the wings of the beasts kissing one another, and also the rattling of the wheels hard by them, and the sound of a great earthquake. 14. And the wind took me up, and led me away. And I went, and was sore afraid: but the hand of the LORD held me fast. 15. And I came to the captives that dwelt by the water of Chebar, where the almonds were in the month of Abib, and sat with them that sat there, and abode there among them seven days in sorrow. 16. And when the seven days were expired, the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 17. Son of man, I have set thee a watchman over the house of Israel: thou shalt hear the word out of my mouth, and warn them from me. 18. If I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou warn him not, nor tell him, that the wicked may beware of his wickedness, that he may live: then the wicked shall die for his sin, but his blood will I require at thine hand. 19. But if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wicked ways, he shall die for his sin: but thou hast saved thy soul. 20. And if a righteous man turn from his righteousness, and do evil, then will I cause him to run, and he shall die. For because thou hast not warned him, he shall die for his sin; and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be regarded: but his blood will I require at thine hand. 21. But if thou warn the righteous, that he sin not, and he sin not, he shall live, because he hath been warned: and thou hast saved thy soul. 22. And there the hand of the LORD came upon me, and said unto me, Arise, and go forth into the field, and I will speak unto thee. 23. And I arose, and went out into the field; and, behold, the glory of the LORD was there, as I had seen it by the river Chebar. And I fell down on my face. 24. And I was refreshed, and stood upon my feet. And he spake unto me, and said unto me, Go, hide thyself in thine house. 25. And thou, son of man, behold, they shall put ropes upon thee, and bind thee therewith, that thou shalt not escape them. 26. And I will make thy tongue cleave to the roof of thy mouth, and thou shalt be ashamed, and shalt punish them no more: for it is a rebellious house. 27. And when I shall speak unto thee, I will open thy mouth, and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD. He that heareth, let him hear; and he that letteth, let him alone: for it is a rebellious house. (Ezekial) Chapter 4 Siege of the city of Jerusalem prefigured. 1. And thou, son of man, take a brick, and lay it before thee, and design thereon the city of Jerusalem. 2. And make a siege about it, and build a bulwark about it, and dig a debris about it, and make an army about it, and set goats round about it. 3. And take for thee an iron pan, and let it be an iron wall between thee and the city; and set thy face against it, and besiege it. This shall be a sign unto the house of Israel. 4. Thou shalt also lie upon thy left side, and put the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it: as many days as thou shalt lie thereon, so long shalt thou bear their iniquity. 5. And I will make the years of their iniquity the number of days unto thee, even three hundred and ninety days: so long shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. 6. And it shall come to pass, when thou hast finished these things, that thou shalt lie on thy right side afterward, and bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: for I will give thee here also a day for a year. 7. And set thy face and thy bare arm against Jerusalem that is besieged, and prophesy against her. 8. And, behold, I will put ropes upon thee, that thou shalt not turn from side to side, till thou hast finished the days of thy siege. 9. Now therefore take thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentils, and millet, and spelt, and put them all in a barrel, and make thee as many loaves of them as thou shalt lie on thy side three hundred and ninety days to eat, 10. And thy meat, which thou shalt eat daily, shall be twenty shekels. And thou shalt eat it from time to time. 11. The water also thou shalt drink according to the measure, even the sixth part of the hin; and thou shalt drink it from time to time. 12. Barley cakes shalt thou eat, which thou shalt bake with manure before their eyes. 13. And the LORD said, So must the children of Israel eat their unclean bread among the heathen, whither I have driven them. 14. And I said, O Lord GOD, behold, my soul hath never been defiled: for from my youth even unto this time I have eaten no carcase, neither have I torn any flesh; neither hath any unclean flesh entered into my mouth. 15. And he said unto me, Behold, I will let thee have cow dung for man dung, that thou mayest make thy bread. 16. And he said unto me, Son of man, behold, I will take away the store of bread from Jerusalem, that they may eat the bread by weight with sorrow, and drink the water by measure with sorrow, 17. Because there shall be a lack of bread and water, and they shall mourn one with another, and be consumed in their iniquity. (Ezekial) Chapter 5 Plagues proclaimed to the Jews. 1. And thou, son of man, take a sword sharp as a clipper's knife, and run it over thy head and beard; and take a pair of balances, and divide them therewith. 2. The one third part thou shalt burn with fire in the midst of the city, when the days of the siege are expired; the other third part take, and smite it round about with the sword; the last third part scatter in the wind, that I may draw out the sword after them. 3. but take a little of it and tie it in your coat-tail. 4. And take again some of it, and cast it into a fire, and burn it with fire: and there shall be a fire of it upon all the house of Israel. 5. Thus saith the LORD GOD; This is Jerusalem, which I have set among the nations, and round about her lands. 6. But she hath turned my law into ungodly doctrine more than the heathen, and my statutes more than the countries that are round about her. For they reject my law, and will not walk after my statutes. 7. Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye do more than the heathen that are round about you, and do not walk in my statutes, nor do my judgments, but do after the manner of the heathen that are round about you, 8. Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will also remember thee, and will execute judgment upon thee, that the heathen may see. 9. And I will deal so with thee, as I never have done, nor will do henceforth, because of all thine abominations. 10. And in thee shall the fathers devour their children, and the children their fathers: and I will execute such judgment upon thee, that all thy remnant shall be scattered abroad. 11. Therefore, as surely as I live, saith the LORD GOD, because thou hast defiled my sanctuary with all thy abominations and thy idols, I will also smite thee: mine eye shall not spare thee, neither will I have mercy upon thee. 12. The third part of thee shall die of pestilence, and be consumed with famine; and the other third part of thee shall fall by the sword round about thee: and the last third part will I scatter abroad, and will draw out the sword after them. 13. So shall my wrath be accomplished, and my fury be turned upon them, to cool my courage: and they shall know that I the LORD have spoken in my zeal, when I have turned my fury upon them. 14. I will make thee a desolation and a reproach in the sight of the heathen that are round about thee, in the sight of all that pass by. 15. And thou shalt be a reproach, and a scorn, and an example, and a wonder, unto all the heathen that are round about thee, when I execute judgment upon thee with wrath, and with fury, and with wrathful reproach, saith the LORD, 16. And when I shall shoot wicked arrows of hunger among them, which shall be hurtful, and I shall shoot them out to destroy you, and cause the hunger to increase upon you, and take away the supply of bread. 17. Yea, I will send famine and evil beasts among you, and they shall make you childless: and pestilence and flood shall pass among you, and I will bring the sword upon you. I the LORD have spoken it. (Ezekial) Chapter 6 Of desolation of the Jewish land. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, turn thy face against the mountains of Israel, and prophesy against them. 3. And say, Ye mountains of Israel, hear the word of the LORD GOD. Thus saith the LORD GOD both to the mountains, and to the hills, both to the rivers, and to the valleys; Behold, I will bring a sword upon you, and will destroy your high places, 4. And your altars shall be laid waste, and your idols shall be broken: and I will cause your dead bodies to be slain before the images. 5. Yea, I will cut down the dead bodies of the children of Israel before your images, and will scatter your bones round about your altars. 6. Where ye dwell, the cities shall be desolate, and the high places shall be made waste. For they shall make your altars desolate and waste, and break your idols, and destroy them, and break your images, and destroy your graven images, 7. And they that are slain shall lie down among you, that ye may know that I am the LORD. 8. But I will leave some of you to escape the sword among the heathen, when I have scattered you abroad. 9. These your remnant shall then remember me among the heathen, when they shall be taken captive, when I have broken their Huring heart that departed from me, and their Huring eyes that looked after their idols: and they shall repent of the wickedness which they have committed by all their abominations. 10. And they shall know that I am the LORD, and that I have not spoken in vain to do them this evil. 11. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Smite thy hands together, and stamp thy feet, and say, Woe unto all the abominations of wickedness that are in the house of Israel, because they fall by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence! 12. He that is far off shall die of the pestilence, and he that is near shall fall by the sword: but he that remaineth, and is kept from it, shall die of hunger. So will I perfect my wrath among them, 13. That ye may know that I am the LORD, when their slain shall lie under their idols round about their altars, upon every hill, and upon every mountain, and under every green tree, and under every thick oak, wherein they offered sweet incense unto all manner of idols. 14. I will stretch out mine hand against them, and make the land desolate and waste, from the wilderness even unto Diblath, where they dwell: and they shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 7 Prophecy of the fall of the kingdom of Judah. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, thus saith the LORD of the land of Israel, The end cometh, the end upon all the four places of the land. 3. Now the end is come upon thee: for I will send my wrath upon thee, and will judge thee according to thine own deserts, and will give thee according to all thine abominations. 4. Mine eye shall not spare thee, nor overlook thee: but I will give thee according to thy deserts, and thine abominations shall come among thee, that ye may know that I am the LORD. 5. Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, one calamity cometh upon another! 6. The end cometh, the end cometh, it is awakened upon thee; behold, it cometh! 7. It riseth up and breaketh upon thee, O inhabitant of the land: the time cometh, the day of mourning is at hand, when there shall be no singing in the mountains. 8. Now soon will I pour out my fury upon thee, and execute my wrath upon thee: and I will judge thee according to thy deserts, and give thee according to all thine abominations. 9. Mine eye shall not pity thee, neither will I have mercy upon thee: but I will give thee according to thy due, and thine abominations shall come among thee, and ye shall know that I am the LORD that smiteth you. 10. Behold, the day, behold, it cometh, it breaketh forth! The rod flourisheth, and the proud is green. 11. The tyrant hath risen up a rod against the wicked, that none of them, nor of their people, nor of their multitude, shall have comfort. 12. Therefore the time cometh, the day draweth nigh. The buyer shall not rejoice, neither shall the seller mourn: for wrath cometh upon all their multitude. 13. Therefore the seller shall not seek again his goods that are sold: for he that liveth shall have them. For the prophecy of all their multitude shall not return: no man shall preserve his life for his iniquity. 14. Let them sound the trumpet, and prepare all things. No man shall go forth to war: for my wrath is upon all their multitude. 15. In the streets goeth the sword; in the houses goeth pestilence and famine. He that is in the field shall die by the sword: but he that is in the city shall be devoured with pestilence and famine. 16. And they that escape among them shall be in the mountains, and shall be as doves in the valley, all gyrating among themselves, every one for his iniquity. 17. Every hand shall sink, and every knee shall stand as the waters. 18. And they shall gird themselves with sackcloth, and be overwhelmed with fear; and every man's face shall be desolate, and every man's head shall be bald. 19. They shall cast their silver into the streets, and shall count their gold as filth: for their silver and their gold shall not save them in the day of the LORD'S wrath. Yet shall not their soul be satisfied with it, nor their belly filled with it: for it hath been a stumblingblock unto their iniquity. 20. They have made images of their abominations and abominations out of their precious jewels, that they might be proud: therefore will I make them filthy. 21. And I will give it into the hands of strangers, that they may spoil it; and to the wicked of the earth for a prey, that they may desecrate it. 22. I will turn my face from it, that they may profane my treasure: yea, robbers shall come upon it, and profane it. 23. Make chains; for the land is full of bloodshed, and the city full of iniquity. 24. Then will I send for the most wicked of the heathen, and they shall take their houses: and I will put an end to the proud, and desecrate their churches. 25. The destroyer cometh; and they shall seek peace, and shall not be there. 26. One accident shall come upon another, one rumour upon another. Then shall they seek a vision from the prophets: but there shall be no more law with the priests, nor counsel with the ancients. 27. The king shall be grieved, and the princes shall be arrayed in mourning, and the hands of the people of the land shall be despondent. I will deal with them as they have dealt, and will judge them as they have deserved, that they may know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 8 Idolatry a cause of future punishment. 1. And it came to pass in the sixth year, on the fifth day of the sixth month, that I sat in mine house, and the ancients of Judah sat before me: and there the hand of the LORD God fell upon me. 2. And, behold, I saw that from his loins downward was as it were fire; but above his loins was light. 3. And he reached out as it were a hand, and took me by the hair of my head. Then a wind led me between heaven and earth, and brought me to Jerusalem in a divine vision unto the inner gate that standeth toward the north, where an image sat in vexation to the master of the house. 4. And, behold, there was the glory of the God of Israel, as I had seen it before in the field. 5. And he said unto me, Son of man, lift up thine eyes toward the north. And when I lifted up mine eyes toward the north, behold, toward the north sat the fretful image at the gate of the altar, even as one goeth in. 6. And he said unto me, Son of man, seest thou also what these do, which are great abominations, which the house of Israel doeth here, to drive me far from my sanctuary? But thou shalt see yet greater abominations. 7. And he brought me to the door of the court: and I looked, and, behold, there was a hole in the wall. 8. And he said unto me, Son of man, dig through the wall. And when I had digged through the wall, behold, there was a door. 9. And he said unto me, Go in, and see the wicked abominations which they do in all these places. 10. And when I was come in, and looked, behold, there were all manner of graven images, and all manner of beasts, and all manner of abominations, and all manner of idols of the house of Israel, made round about upon the wall, 11. Before whom stood seventy men of the elders of the house of Israel: and Jazaniah the son of Shaphan stood also among them; and every man had his incense in his hand. And there arose a thick mist from the incense. 12. And he said unto me, Son of man, seest thou what the elders of the house of Israel do in darkness, every man in his goodliest chamber? For they say, The LORD seeth us not: but the LORD hath forsaken the land. 13. And he said unto me, Thou shalt see yet greater abominations that they do. 14. And he brought me in unto the gate of the LORD'S house, which is toward the north: and, behold, there sat women weeping over the Thamus. 15. And he said unto me, Son of man, seest thou this? But thou shalt see greater abominations than these. 16. And he brought me into the inner court of the house of the LORD: and, behold, at the door of the temple of the LORD, between the hall and the altar, there were twenty and five men with their backs toward the temple of the LORD, and their faces toward the east, praying toward the rising of the sun. 17. And he said unto me, Son of man, seest thou this? Is it not enough for the house of Judah, that they all do such abominations here? for they do violence and wrong throughout all the land, and go about and provoke me also: and, behold, they hold the vines to their noses. 18. Therefore will I deal fiercely with them, and mine eye shall not spare them, neither will I be gracious unto them. Though they cry with a loud voice in mine ears, yet will I not hear them. (Ezekial) Chapter 9 Punishment of the idolatrous. 1. And he cried with a loud voice in mine ears, saying, Let the visitation of the city come near, and let every man have a murderous weapon in his hand. 2. And, behold, there came six men by the way from the upper gate, which is toward the north, every one having a pestilent weapon in his hand. But there was one of them that had on linen, and a writing instrument by his side. So they went in and stood beside the bronze altar. 3. And the glory of the God of Israel rose up from the cherub that was over it unto the threshold of the house, and called unto him that had the linen on, and the writing by his side. 4. And the LORD said unto him, Pass through the city of Jerusalem, and mark with a sign in the foreheads the men that sigh and lament for all the abominations that are done therein. 5. And he said unto them, that I might hear it, Go after this man through the city, and smite thee: let not thine eyes spare nor overlook. 6. Slay both old men, and young men, and virgins, and children, and women, all dead: but them that have the mark upon them touch none of them. But begin at my sanctuary! And they began at the old men that were before the house. 7. And he said unto them: Defile the house, and make the courts full of dead bodies; come out. And they went out, and smote in the city. 8. And when they had struck out, I was left. And I fell on my face, and cried, saying, O Lord GOD, wilt thou destroy all the remnant of Israel, and pour out thy wrath upon Jerusalem? 9. And he said unto me, The iniquity of the house of Israel and of Judah is too great: there is violence in the land, and iniquity in the city. For they say: The LORD hath forsaken the land, and the LORD looketh not upon us. 10. Therefore also mine eye shall not spare, neither will I have mercy, but I will cast their doings upon their heads. 11. And, behold, the man that had the linen on, and the writing by his side, answered and said: I have done as thou hast commanded me. (Ezekial) Chapter 10 Face of burning coals and the glory of the Lord. 1. And I looked, and, behold, in heaven above the head of the cherubims it was fashioned like a sapphire, and above them it was like the appearance of a throne. 2. And he said unto the man clothed in linen, Go in among the wheels under the cherub, and take the hands full of burning coals that are between the cherubims, and scatter them upon the city. And he went in, and I saw it, as he went in. 3. And the cherubims stood on the right hand of the house, and the court was filled with mist within. 4. And the glory of the LORD was lifted up from the cherub unto the threshold of the house: and the house was filled with mist, and the court with the glory of the LORD. 5. And the wings of the cherubims were heard to come out of the court, as the voice of the Almighty God, when he spake. 6. And when he had commanded the man clothed in linen, saying, Take fire from between the wheels under the cherubims, the same went in, and stood by the wheel. 7. And the cherub put forth his hand from between the cherubims unto the fire that was between the cherubims, and took of it, and put it into the hands of the man clothed in linen: and he received it, and went out. 8. And appeared unto the cherubims as the hand of a man under their wings. 9. And I looked, and, behold, there were four wheels upon the cherubims, and upon every cherub a wheel; and the wheels were as it were a turquoise in appearance. 10. And all four were one like unto another, as one wheel within another. 11. When they should go, they could go into all their four places, and could not turn when they went: but whither the first went, there they went after, and could not turn, 12. And all their bodies, and their backs, and their hands, and their wings. And the wheels were full of eyes round about upon all four wheels. 13. And he cried unto the wheels: Galgal, that I might hear. 14. Each had four faces. The first face was a cherub, the second a man, the third a lion, the fourth an eagle. 15. And the cherubims went up. It is the very beast that I saw by the waters of Chebar. 16. When the cherubims walked, the wheels also walked beside them: and when the cherubims swung their wings, so as to lift them up from the earth, neither did the wheels turn from them. 17. If those were slow, these also were slow: if they were exalted, these also were exalted: for there was a living wind in them. 18. And the glory of the LORD went out again from the threshold of the house, and stood over the cherubims. 19. And the cherubims lifted up their wings, and came up from the earth before mine eyes: and as they went out, the wheels went beside them. And they entered into the gate of the house of the LORD toward the east: and the glory of the God of Israel was above them. 20. This is the beast that I saw among the God of Israel by the water of Chebar, and perceived that they were cherubims, 21. For every one had four faces, and four wings, and under the wings were as the hands of men. 22. Their faces were fashioned as I saw them by the waters of Chebar, and they went straight before them. (Ezekial) Chapter 11 Of the safety and punishment of princes. 1. And a wind took me up, and brought me to the gate of the house of the LORD, which is toward the east: and, behold, there were twenty and five men under the gate. And I saw among them Jazaniah the son of Assyria, and Platiah the son of Benaiah, princes of the people. 2. And he said unto me, Son of man, these men have evil thoughts and evil counsels in this city. 3. For they say: It is not so near, let us only build houses; she is the pot, so are we the flesh. 4. Therefore shalt thou, O son of man, prophesy against them. 5. And the Spirit of the LORD fell upon me, and said unto me, Say, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have spoken thus, O house of Israel; and I know the thoughts of your mind. 6. Ye have slain many in this city, and the streets thereof are full of the dead. 7. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; They which ye have killed within are the flesh, and she is the pot: but ye must go forth. 8. The sword that ye fear, that will I bring upon you, saith the LORD GOD. 9. I will cast you out from thence, and will deliver you into the hand of strangers, and will do you justice. 10. Ye shall fall by the sword, and I will judge you within the borders of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the LORD. 11. But the city shall not be your pot, neither ye the flesh that is therein: but within the borders of Israel will I judge you; 12. And ye shall know that I am the LORD: for ye have not walked in my statutes, neither kept my judgments, but have done after the manner of the heathen that are round about you. 13. And it came to pass, as I prophesied, that Platiah the son of Benaiah died. And I fell on my face, and cried with a loud voice, saying, O Lord GOD, thou wilt make an end of the remnant of Israel. 14. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 15. Son of man, thy brethren, and thy near friends, and all the house of Israel that dwell at Jerusalem, speak well among themselves: they are fled from the LORD afar off, but we have the land. 16. Therefore say thou, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Yea, I have driven them afar off among the heathen, and scattered them abroad: but I will soon be their saviour in the countries whither they are come. 17. Say therefore, Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will gather you out of the nations, and will gather you out of the countries whither ye are scattered, and will give you the land of Israel. 18. And they shall come and put away all the abominations and detestableness thereof. 19. And I will give you one heart of one accord, and put a new spirit within you: and I will take out of your body the heart of stone, and will give you a heart of flesh, 20. That they may walk in my statutes, and keep my judgments, and do them. And they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 21. But unto them that walk after the abominations and the abominations of their heart will I cast their doings upon their heads, saith the LORD GOD. 22. Then the cherubims swung their wings, and the wheels went beside them, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them. 23. And the glory of the LORD arose out of the city, and stood upon the mountain that lieth on the east side before the city. 24. And a wind lifted me up, and brought me in the vision and spirit of God into Chaldea unto the captives. And the vision which I had seen vanished from before me. 25. And I told the prisoners all the words of the LORD, which he had shewed me. (Ezekial) Chapter 12 Model of the calamity to befall Zedekiah and his kinsmen. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, thou dwellest in a rebellious house, which hath eyes to see, and will not see; ears to hear, and will not hear: but it is a rebellious house. 3. Wherefore, thou son of man, take thy travelling device, and depart in the daylight from before their eyes. Thou shalt remove from thy place unto another place in their sight, though they may know that they are a rebellious house. 4. And thou shalt put forth thy utensils, as an itinerant utensil, in the daylight before them: and thou shalt go forth in the evening before them, as a man goeth forth to wander. 5. And thou shalt break through the wall before their eyes, and there thou shalt pass through. 6. And thou shalt take it upon thine shoulder before their eyes, and when it is dark thou shalt carry it forth: thou shalt cover thy face, that thou see not the land. For I have set thee for a miraculous sign unto the house of Israel. 7. And I did as I was commanded, and brought forth my utensil, as an itinerant utensil, in the daylight; and in the evening I broke through the wall with my hand; and when it was dark, I took it upon my shoulder, and brought it forth before their eyes. 8. And the word of the LORD came unto me early in the morning, saying: 9. Son of man, hath not the house of Israel, the disobedient house, said unto thee, What doest thou? 10. Say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; This burden is upon the prince of Jerusalem, and upon all the house of Israel that are therein. 11. Say, I am your miraculous sign: as I have done, so shall it be done unto you, that ye shall wander, and be led captive. 12. Their prince shall bear upon his shoulder in the darkness, and shall go out through the wall, and they shall break it, and go out through it: his face shall be covered, and he shall not see the land with his eye. 13. And I will cast my net upon him, and he shall be taken in my pursuit, and I will bring him to Babylon, to the land of the Chaldeans, which he shall not see; and there he shall die. 14. And all that are about him, and his assistants, and all his company, will I scatter to the winds, and will draw out the sword after them. 15. So shall they know that I am the LORD, when I cast them out among the heathen, and scatter them abroad. 16. But I will save a few of them from the sword, and from the famine, and from the pestilence: and they shall tell of those abominations among the heathen, whither they shall come; and they shall know that I am the LORD. 17. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 18. Son of man, thou shalt eat thy bread with trembling, and drink thy water with shaking and sorrow. 19. And say unto the people of the land, Thus saith the LORD of the inhabitants of Jerusalem in the land of Israel, They shall eat their bread in sorrow, and drink their water in affliction: for the land shall be desolate of all that is therein, because of the iniquity of all the inhabitants thereof. 20. And the cities that are inhabited shall be desolate, and the land shall be waste. So shall ye know that I am the LORD. 21. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 22. Son of man, what is this proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, Because it hath been long consumed, now shall not the prophecy continue? 23. Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will put away the proverb, that it shall no more be used in Israel. And speak unto them: The time is at hand, and all that is prophesied. 24. For now therefore ye shall know that no vision shall fail, neither shall any prophecy lie against the house of Israel. 25. For I am the LORD: whatsoever I speak, that shall be done, and it shall no longer be delayed: but in your time, ye disobedient house, I will do that which I speak, saith the LORD GOD. 26. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 27. Son of man, behold, the house of Israel saith, The vision which this man seeth is yet for a long time, and foreknoweth the time that is yet afar off. 28. Say therefore unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; What I speak shall no longer be delayed, but shall be done, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 13 Description and punishment of false prophets. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel, and say unto them that prophesy of their own heart, Hear the word of the LORD. 3. Thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe unto the foolish prophets, which follow their own spirit, and have not vision! 4. O Israel, thy prophets are as foxes in the deserts! 5. They stand not before the breaches, neither make themselves a stumblingblock for the house of Israel, neither stand in the battle in the day of the LORD. 6. Their countenance is nothing, and their prophesying is vain lying. They say: The LORD hath spoken it, when the LORD hath not sent them: and they labour to keep their things. 7. Is it not so, that your vision is nothing, and your prophesying lies? And say ye, The LORD hath spoken it, when I have not spoken it. 8. Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye preach that which is not made, and know lies, I will be with you, saith the Lord GOD. 9. And my hand shall come upon the prophets that preach that which is not made, and that prophesy lies. They shall not be in the congregation of my people, neither shall they be written in the number of the house of Israel, nor come into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the LORD GOD, 10. Because they deceive my people, saying, Peace; when there is no peace. The people build the wall, and whitewash it with lime. 11. Speak unto the whitewashers that whitewash with loose lime, that it shall fall away: for there shall come a downpour, and great hailstones shall fall, and a whirlwind shall break it. 12. Behold, the wall shall fall down. What matter, then shall they say unto you, Where is now the whitewash which ye have whitewashed? 13. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will send a whirlwind in my wrath, and a downpour in my anger, and great hailstones in my fury, and they shall overthrow it all. 14. So will I overthrow the wall which ye have whitewashed with loose lime, and will thrust it down to the ground, and the bottom thereof shall be seen to lie there: and ye shall perish within it also, and he shall go that I am the LORD, 15. So will I execute mine anger upon the wall, and upon them that whitewash it with lime, and say unto you, Here is neither wall nor whitewash. 16. These are the prophets of Israel, which prophesy unto Jerusalem, and preach peace, when there is no peace, saith the LORD GOD. 17. And, thou son of man, set thy face against the daughters of thy people, which prophesy out of their hearts, and prophesy against them. 18. And say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Woe unto you, that put pillows for men's arms, and pills for their heads, to catch souls, both young and old! When ye have taken the souls of my people, promise ye them life. 19. And sanctify me among my people for a handful of barley and a morsel of bread, that ye should condemn to death those souls which ought not to die, and condemn to life those which ought not to live, by your lying among my people, which love to hear lies. 20. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will touch your pillows, that ye may faire and comfort souls; and I will pluck them out of your arms, and loose the souls which ye faire and comfort. 21. And I will rend your plagues, and deliver my people out of your hand, and ye shall go no more: and ye shall know that I am the LORD, 22. Because ye falsely grieve the heart of the righteous, whom I have not grieved; and have strengthened the hands of the wicked, that they turn not from their wickedness, that they may live. 23. Therefore preach ye no more vain doctrine, neither prophesy: but I will deliver my people out of your hand, and ye shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 14 Rejection of the despisers of divine word. 1. And there came unto me certain of the elders of Israel, and sat down before me. 2. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 3. Son of man, these men cleave with their hearts unto their idols, and hold the offence of their iniquity. Shall I then answer them when they ask me? 4. Speak therefore unto them, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Whosoever of the house of Israel shall cleave with his heart unto his idols, and shall hold the offence of his iniquity, and shall come unto the prophet, I the LORD will answer him according to his great idolatry, 5. That the house of Israel might be deceived in their heart, because they have all departed from me through idolatry. 6. Therefore shalt thou say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Return, and turn away from your idolatry, and turn away your faces from all your abominations. 7. For whatsoever man of the house of Israel, or stranger that sojourneth in Israel, shall depart from me, and cleave unto his idols with his heart, and hold his idolatry in vexation, and come unto the prophet to enquire of me by him, I the LORD will answer him myself. 8. And I will set my face against them, and they shall be desolate, and become a sign and a proverb: and I will cut them off from among my people, and ye shall know that I am the LORD. 9. But if a deceived prophet speak any thing, I the LORD will again cause him to be deceived, and will stretch out mine hand upon him, and cut him off from among my people Israel. 10. So shall they both bear their iniquity: as the iniquity of the questioner, so shall be the iniquity of the prophet, 11. That they deceive not the house of Israel from me, neither defile themselves any more in all their transgressions: but they shall be my people, and I will be their God, saith the LORD GOD. 12. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 13. Son of man, if a land sin against me, and spurn me, I will stretch out mine hand upon it, and will take away the store of bread, and will send a plague therein, and will destroy both man and beast within. 14. And if the three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they alone would save their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD. 15. And if I should bring evil beasts into the land, and they should cleanse the people, and make it desolate, that no man should walk therein before the beasts, 16. And these three men were in it: as I live, saith the Lord GOD, they shall save neither sons nor daughters, but themselves only; and the land shall be desolate. 17. Or if I bring the sword upon the land, and say, Sword, pass through the land, and cut off both man and beast, 18. And the three men were within: as I live, saith the Lord GOD, they shall save neither sons nor daughters, but they alone shall be saved. 19. Or if I send pestilence upon the land, and pour out my fury upon it, and bring down blood, to cut off both man and beast, 20. And Noah, and Daniel, and Job, were in it: as I live, saith the Lord GOD, they would save neither sons nor daughters, but their own souls only by their righteousness. 21. For thus saith the LORD GOD; If I send my four evil judgments, the sword, and the famine, and the beasts, and the pestilence, upon Jerusalem, to cut off both man and beast from therein, 22. And, behold, some of the remnant that are within shall come forth, and shall bring forth sons and daughters, and shall come unto you, and ye shall see how they fare, and comfort yourselves concerning the evil that I have brought upon Jerusalem, and all that I have brought upon her. 23. They shall be your consolation, when ye shall see how they fare, and shall know that I have not done without a cause what I have done within, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 15 Extermination of the people of Jerusalem prefigured. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, what is the wood of the vine above other wood, or a branch above other wood in the forest? Do you also take it and make something out of it? Or does one also make a nail out of it, on which one may hang something? 4. Behold, they cast it into the fire, and it was consumed: both the places thereof were consumed by the fire, and the midst thereof was burned up. What is it good for? Is it good for anything? 5. Behold, when it was whole, nothing could be made of it: how much less can anything be made of it now, that the fire hath consumed and burned it? 6. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; As I give the wood of the vine before the wood of the forest to be consumed by fire, so will I deal with the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 7. And I will set my face against them, and they shall not escape the fire, but the fire shall devour them. And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I set my face against them. 8. And make the land desolate, because they spurn me, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 16 Punishment of ingratitude. Establishment of the new covenant. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, shew the city of Jerusalem her abominations, and say: 3. Thus saith the LORD GOD unto Jerusalem; Thy seed and thy birth are of the land of the Canaanites; thy father of the Amorites, and thy mother of the Hittites. 4. Thy birth was thus: Thy navel, when thou wast born, was not cut: neither wast thou bathed with water to make thee clean, nor rubbed with salt, nor wrapped in swaddling clothes. 5. For no man had compassion on thee, neither did he show thee pieces; but thou wast cast into the field. So was thy soul despised when thou wast born. 6. And I passed over before thee, and saw thee lying in thy blood, and said unto thee, As thou layest in thy blood, Thou shalt live. Yea, I said unto thee, as thou layest in thy blood, Thou shalt live. 7. And I brought thee up, and caused thee to grow as a plant of the field; and thou wast grown, and become great and fair. Thy breasts were grown, and thou hadst grown long hair; but thou wast yet naked and ashamed. 8. And I passed over before thee, and looked upon thee; and, behold, it was time to woo thee. And I spread my sheath over thee, and covered thy shame. And I pledged thee, and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord GOD, that thou shouldest be mine. 9. And I bathed thee in water, and washed thee in thy blood, and anointed thee with balm. 10. And I clothed thee with embroidered garments, and put on thee shoes of seed; and I gave thee fine linen garments, and silken veils. 11. And adorned thee with jewels, and put jewels upon thine ear, and chains upon thy neck. 12. And gave thee a hairband upon thy forehead, and earrings upon thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thy head. 13. Summa, thou wast adorned with fine gold and silver, and clothed with fine linen, and silk, and embroidery. Thou didst also eat vain bread, and honey, and oil, and wast exceeding fair, and received the kingdom. 14. And thy fame went up among the nations because of thy beauty, which was made perfect by the ornament that I had put upon thee, saith the Lord GOD. 15. But thou trustedst in thy beauty, and because thou wast so renowned, thou didst fornicate, so as to make thyself common to every one that passed by, and didst his will. 16. And thou hast taken of thy garments, and hast made thee multicolored altars, and hast committed thy whoredom thereon, as never was, nor ever shall be. 17. Thou hast also taken thy goodly vessels, which I gave thee of my gold and of my silver, and hast made thee manly likenesses of them, and hast committed whoredom with them. 18. And thou tookst thy embroidered garments, and coveredst them therewith; and thou puttest my oil and my incense before them. 19. My meat which I gave thee to eat, the bread, and the oil, and the honey, thou puttest before them for a sweet savour. Yea, it came to pass, saith the Lord GOD, 20. Because thou hast taken thy sons and thy daughters, which thou begotst me, and hast offered them for food. Thinkest thou then that thy fornication is a small thing? 21. That thou shouldest slay my children, and let them burn the same? 22. Nor hast thou in all thine abominations and thy fornications remembered the days of thy youth, how naked and bare thou wast, and layest in thy blood. 23. Over all this thy wickedness (alas, woe, woe unto thee!) saith the LORD GOD, 24. thou buildest thee churches of the mountains, and makest thee altars of the mountains in every street. 25. And in the front of every street thou hast built thy mountain altars, and hast made thy beauty a vile abomination. Thou hast attacked with thy legs all that passed by, and hast committed great whoredom. 26. First, thou didst commit whoredom with the children of Egypt thy neighbours, which had great flesh, and didst great whoredom to provoke me. 27. And I stretched out mine hand against thee, and turned thee in such a way as thine, and delivered thee into the will of thine enemies, the daughters of the Philistines, who were ashamed of thy wickedness. 28. Afterward thou didst commit fornication with the children of Assyria, and couldst not be satisfied: for thou hadst committed fornication with them, and couldst not be satisfied, 29. Thou didst make more fornication in the land of Canaan, even unto Chaldea; neither couldst thou be satisfied therewith. 30. How shall I circumcise thine heart, saith the LORD GOD, because thou doest these works of a great archwhore? 31. That thou mightest build thy mountain churches in the front of every street, and make thine altars in every lane? For this thou wast not as another harlot, which must be bought with money, 32. Nor like the adulteress, which suffereth others instead of her husband. 33. For to all other whores they give money: but thou givest money to all thy whoredoms, and givest them to come unto thee everywhere, and to commit whoredom with thee. 34. And in thee there is a contradiction in the sight of other women with thy whoredoms, because they go not after thee, but thou givest money, and they give thee no money. So thou doest the adultery. 35. Therefore, O harlot, hear the word of the LORD. 36. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because thou hast given money so bountifully, and hast uncovered thy shame by thy fornication against thy lovers, and against all the idols of thine abominations, and hast shed the blood of thy children, which thou sacrificest unto them, 37. Therefore, behold, I will gather unto thine enemies all thy lovers, with whom thou hast committed lasciviousness, and all whom thou hast thought to be thy friends; and I will gather them both against thee round about, and I will make thy shame known unto them, that they may see thy shame. 38. And I will bring upon thee the judgment of adulteresses and bloodshedters, and will overthrow thy blood with fury and jealousy. 39. And I will deliver thee into their hand, and they shall break down thy mountain churches, and shall pull down thy mountain altars, and shall strip thee of thy garments, and take thy fair apparel, and leave thee naked and bare. 40. And they shall bring upon thee multitudes of men, which shall stone thee, and cut thee in pieces with their swords. 41. And I will burn thy houses with fire, and do thee justice in the sight of many women. So will I make an end of thy whoredom, and thou shalt no more give money, neither shalt thou acknowledge it. 42. And I will cool my courage in thee, and satisfy my zeal in thee, that I may rest, and be angry no more. 43. Because thou hast not remembered the days of thy youth, but hast provoked me with all these things, therefore will I lay all thy doings upon thy head, saith the LORD GOD; though I have not done according to the vice of thine abominations. 44. Behold, all they that practice such proverbs shall say of thee this proverb, The daughter is like the mother. 45. Thou art thy mother's daughter, which putteth away her husband and her children; and thou art a sister of thy sisters, which put away their husbands and their children. Your mother is one of the Hittites, and your father an Amorite. 46. Samaria is thy great sister, and her daughters, which dwelleth on thy left hand; and Sodom is thy little sister, and her daughters, which dwelleth on thy right hand; 47. Yet thou hast not lived after their manner, nor done after their abominations. It is not far from this, that thou hast done worse than they in all thy ways. 48. As I live, saith the LORD, Sodom thy sister and her daughters have not done as thou and thy daughters have done. 49. Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, that she and her daughters were proud and full of all things, and of good peace: but they helped not the poor and needy, 50. But were proud, and did abominable things in my sight: therefore when I began to look into them, I put them away. 51. So Samaria also hath not done the half of thy sins, but thou hast done so much more of thine abominations upon her, that thou hast made thy sister like unto all thine abominations which thou hast done. 22. Be thou also now ashamed, that thou hast made thy sister righteous by thy sins, in which thou hast done greater abominations than she, and hast made her more righteous than thou art. Be thou therefore ashamed also, and bear thy shame, because thou hast made thy sister righteous. 53. And I will turn away their prison, the prison of this Sodom, and of their daughters, and the prison of this Samaria, and of their daughters, and the prisoners of thy present prison with them, 54. That thou shouldest bear thy shame and scorn for all that thou hast done, and yet be comforted. 55. And thy sister, this Sodom, and her daughters, shall be converted as they were before; and Samaria and her daughters shall be converted as they were before: thou also and thy daughters shall be converted as ye were before. 56. And thou shalt no more praise the same Sodom thy sister, as in the days of thy pride, 57. When thy wickedness was not yet discovered, when the daughters of Syria and the daughters of the Philistines had defiled thee round about, and despised thee round about, 58. Because ye have borne your vices and your abominations, saith the Lord GOD. 59. For thus saith the LORD GOD; I will do unto thee as thou hast done, to forsake the oath, and to break the covenant. 26. But I will remember my covenant which I made with thee in the days of thy youth, and will establish with thee an everlasting covenant. 11. Then shalt thou remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt take unto thee thy great sisters and thy little sisters, whom I will give thee for daughters, but not of thy covenant, 22. But I will establish my covenant with thee, and thou shalt know that I am the LORD, 33. That thou mayest remember, and be ashamed, and not open thy mouth any more for shame, when I shall forgive thee all that thou hast done, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 17 Of the captivity of Zedekiah the king, and the kingdom of Christ. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, set before the house of Israel a riddle and a parable. 3. And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, and long feathers, and full of feathers of many colours, came up to Lebanon, and took the top of the cedar tree. 4. And brake off the topmost rice, and brought it into the merchant's country, and set it in the merchant's city. 5. And he took seed out of the same land, and sowed it in that good land, where there was much water, and set it by itself. 6. And it grew, and became a spreading vine, and a lowly trunk: for the branches thereof were bent toward it, and the roots thereof were under it: and it was a vine that grew branches and grapes. 7. And there was another great eagle with great wings and many feathers; and, behold, the vine had desire in his roots toward this eagle, and stretched forth his branches toward him, that he might be watered of the place of his plants. 8. And yet he was planted in a good soil by much water, that he might bring forth branches, and bear fruit, and be a glorious vine. 9. Say therefore, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Shall he be put to death? Yea, his root shall be rooted up, and his fruit shall be plucked up, and shall wither, and all his plant shall wither, and shall not be done by great arm, nor by much people, that he may be taken away from his roots. 10. Behold, it is planted, but shall it grow? Yea, as soon as the east wind stirreth it up, it shall wither in the place of his plant. 11. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 12. Speak unto the rebellious house, saying, Know ye not what these things are? And say, Behold, the king of Babylon came to Jerusalem, and took their king and their princes, and carried them away to Babylon. 13. And he took of the king's seed, and made a covenant with him, and took an oath of him: but he took away the mighty men of the land, 14. That the kingdom might be humble, and not be exalted, that his covenant might be kept and stand. 15. But the same seed fell from him, and sent his message into Egypt, that they should send him horses and many people. Shall he be advised? Shall he escape that doeth these things? And shall he that breaketh the covenant escape? 16. As I live, saith the LORD GOD, in the place of the king that made him king, which oath he hath despised, and which covenant he hath broken, there shall he die, even at Babylon. 17. Neither shall Pharaoh help him in battle with a great host, and with a great people, when they shall cast up the vaults, and build strongholds, that much people shall be slain. 18. For because he hath despised the oath, and hath broken the covenant, whereon he gave his hand, and hath done all these things, he shall not escape. 19. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; As surely as I live, I will bring my oath, which he hath despised, and my covenant, which he hath broken, upon his head. 20. For I will cast my net upon him, and he shall be taken in my pursuit: and I will bring him to Babylon, and there I will make terms with him for his trespass against me. 21. And all his fugitives that followed him shall fall by the sword, and the remnant of them shall be scattered abroad: and ye shall know that I the LORD have spoken it. 22. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will also take of the top of the high cedar tree, and will break from the top of the branches thereof a tender rice, and will plant it in a high heaped mountain, 23. I will plant it in the high mountain of Israel, and it shall have branches, and bring forth fruit, and be a glorious cedar tree. And every fowl shall dwell under it, and every flying thing shall dwell under the shadow of the branches thereof. 24. And let all the trees of the field know that I the LORD have humbled the high tree, and have exalted the low tree, and have parched the green tree, and have made green the dry tree. I the LORD speak it, and do it. (Ezekial) Chapter 18 God is just and merciful, therefore repent. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Why do ye practise this proverb among you in the land of Israel, saying, The fathers did eat herbs, but the children's teeth were dulled with them? 3. As surely as I live, saith the LORD GOD, let no more such a proverb pass among you in Israel. 4. For, behold, all souls are mine: the Father's soul is mine, as well as the Son's soul. Whichever soul sinneth, it shall die. 5. If therefore one be godly, that doeth righteousness and good; 6. He that eateth not upon the mountains, nor lifteth up his eyes unto the idols of the house of Israel, nor defileth his neighbour's wife, nor lieth with his wife in her sickness; 7. Who hath not wronged any man; who restoreth the pledge of a debtor; who taketh not away aught by force; who giveth bread to the hungry, and clotheeth the naked; 8. He that ususteth not; he that transgresseth not; he that turneth away his hand from iniquity; he that judgeth rightly among men; 9. He that walketh after my statutes, and keepeth my commandments, to do them earnestly: this is a righteous man; he shall have life, saith the LORD GOD. 10. But if he beget a son, and he be a murderer, and shed blood, or do any of these things 11. And he hath not done any of the rest, but hath eaten upon the mountains, and hath defiled his neighbour's wife, 12. He hath wronged the poor and miserable, he hath taken by violence, he hath not returned the pledge, he hath lifted up his eyes unto idols, that he might commit an abomination, 13. Giveth upon usury, translated, shall he live? He shall not live, but because he hath done all these abominations, he shall die the death; his blood shall be upon him. 14. And he begetteth a son, which seeth all such sin as his father doeth, and feareth, and doeth no such thing: 15. Eat not upon the mountains, nor lift up his eyes unto the idols of the house of Israel, nor defile his neighbour's wife, 16. Damage no man, keep not the pledge, take not by force, divide his bread with the hungry, and clothe the naked; 17. He that turneth away his hand from iniquity, that taketh not usury, nor extravagance, but keepeth my commandments, and walketh after my statutes: he shall not die for his father's iniquity, but shall live. 18. But his father, which hath wrought violence and iniquity, and hath wrought iniquity among his people, behold, he shall die for his iniquity. 19. Then say ye, Why should not a son bear his father's iniquity? Because he hath done right and well, and kept and done all my statutes, he shall live. 20. For whatsoever soul sinneth, that soul shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: but the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the unrighteousness of the unrighteous shall be upon him. 21. But if the wicked turn from all his sins which he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do right and well, he shall live, and not die. 22. All his transgressions which he hath committed shall not be remembered; but he shall live for the righteousness that he doeth. 23. Thinkest thou that I have pleasure in the death of the wicked, saith the LORD GOD, and not rather that he turn from his way, and live? 24. And if the righteous turn from his righteousness, and do evil, and live in all the abominations which the wicked doeth, shall he live? Yea, all his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but in his transgression and in his sins which he hath done he shall die. 25. Nor say ye, The LORD dealeth not justly. Hear therefore, ye of the house of Israel, Is it not so, that I am right, and ye are wrong? 26. For if the righteous turn from his righteousness, and do evil, he must die: but he must die for his wickedness which he hath done. 27. Again, if the wicked turn from his iniquity which he hath done, and do right and well, he shall keep his soul alive. 28. Because he hath seen and turned from all his wickedness which he hath done, he shall live, and not die. 29. Nor say they of the house of Israel, The LORD dealeth not righteously. Shall I be wrong? Ye of the house of Israel are wrong. 30. Therefore will I judge you, ye of the house of Israel, every man according to his character, saith the LORD GOD. Therefore repent ye of all your transgressions, that ye fall not because of iniquity. 31. Cast away from you all your transgression, that ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit. For why then wilt thou die, O house of Israel? 32. For I have no pleasure in the death of the dying, saith the Lord GOD. Therefore repent, and ye shall live. (Ezekial) Chapter 19 Lament over the downfall of the kingdom of Judah and her princes. 1. But thou makest a lamentation for the princes of Israel. 2. And say, Why doth thy mother the lioness lie among the lionesses, and bring forth her whelps among the young lions? 3. And she brought up one of them, and it became a young lion; and it was accustomed to devour men and to devour them. 4. And when the heathen heard it of him, they caught him in their pits, and led him away in chains into the land of Egypt. 5. And when the mother saw that her hope was lost, because she had hoped long, she took another of her young, and made it a lionling. 6. And when he walked among the lionesses, he became a young lion; and he was accustomed to devour men, and to devour them. 7. He knew their widows, and laid waste their cities, that the land, and all that was therein, was astonished at the voice of his roaring. 8. Then the heathen from all the countries round about cast a net upon him, and caught him in their pits. 9. And they cast him bound into a gate, and brought him to the king of Babylon: and they put him away, that his voice should be heard no more in the mountains of Israel. 10. Thy mother was as a vine, like thee, planted by the waters, and her fruit and her branches grew by the great waters, 11. And his vines grew so strong, that they were good for a master's sceptre: and he was high among the vines. And when it was seen that he was so high, and had many vines, 12. He was pulled down to the ground in fury, and was rejected: the east wind withered his fruit, and his strong branches were broken, and withered, and were burned. 13. But now it is planted in the wilderness, in a dry and thirsty land, 14. And a fire is gone out of her strong branches, and devoureth her fruit, that there is no more in her a strong branch to the sceptre of the LORD. This is a pitiful and wretched thing. (Ezekial) Chapter 20 Punishment of hypocrisy and ingratitude. 1. And it came to pass in the seventh year, on the tenth day of the fifth month, that certain of the elders of Israel came to inquire of the LORD, and sat down before me. 2. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 3. Son of man, tell the elders of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Are ye come to ask of me? As I live, I will be unasked of you, saith the LORD GOD. 4. But if thou wilt punish them, O son of man, so mayest thou punish them. Shew them the abominations of their fathers. 5. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; In the day that I chose Israel I lifted up mine hand unto the seed of the house of Jacob, and made myself known unto them in the land of Egypt. Yea, I lifted up my hand unto them, and said: I am the LORD your God. 6. And at that time I lifted up mine hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt unto a land which I had provided for them, flowing with milk and honey, a goodly land above all countries, 7. And said unto them: Cast away every man the abominations that are before his eyes, and defile not yourselves in the idols of Egypt: for I am the LORD your God. 8. And they disobeyed me, and would not obey me: and none of them cast away the abominations from before his eyes, nor forsook the idols of Egypt. Then thought I to pour out mine anger upon them, and to let all mine wrath pass upon them, even in the land of Egypt. 9. But I left it for my name's sake, that it should not be profaned before the heathen among whom they were, and before whom I made myself known unto them, to bring them out of the land of Egypt. 10. And when I had brought them out of the land of Egypt, and had brought them into the wilderness, 11. I gave them my commandments, and taught them my statutes, by which a man liveth that keepeth them. 12. I also gave them my sabbaths for a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the LORD which sanctifieth them. 13. But the house of Israel also disobeyed me in the wilderness, and lived not according to my commandments, and despised my statutes, by which a man liveth that keepeth them, and greatly profaned my sabbaths. Then I thought to pour out my wrath on them in the wilderness and even to destroy them. 14. But I left it for my name's sake, that it should not be profaned before the heathen, before whom I had brought it out. 15. And I lifted up mine hand against them in the wilderness, that I would not bring them into the land which I had given them, which floweth with milk and honey, a goodly land above all countries, 16. Because they had despised my statutes, and had not walked in my commandments, and had profaned my sabbaths; for they walked after the idols of their hearts. 17. But mine eye spared them, lest I destroy them, or even destroy them in the wilderness. 18. And I said unto their children in the wilderness, Ye shall not walk in the statutes of your fathers, neither shall ye keep their judgments, neither shall ye defile yourselves in their idols. 19. For I am the LORD your God: according to my commandments shall ye live, and my statutes shall ye keep, and do them. 20. And my sabbaths ye shall keep holy, that they may be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the LORD your God. 21. And the children also disobeyed me, and kept not my commandments, neither kept they my statutes to do them, by which the man that keepeth them liveth; and they profaned my sabbaths. Then I thought to pour out my wrath on them and to let all my anger go out on them in the wilderness. 22. But I turned my hand, and left it for my name's sake, that it should not be profaned before the heathen, before whom I had brought it out. 23. And I lifted up mine hand against them in the wilderness, to scatter them among the heathen, and to destroy them in the countries, 24. Because they had not kept my commandments, and had despised my statutes, and had profaned my sabbaths, and had walked after the idols of their fathers. 25. Therefore delivered I them into doctrines which are not good, and into judgments wherein they could not live, 26. And rejected them with their sacrifice, when they burnt all the firstborn with fire, that I might destroy them, and that they might know that I am the LORD. 27. Speak therefore, thou son of man, unto the house of Israel, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Your fathers have blasphemed me yet more, and trespassed against me. 28. For when I had brought them into the land which I had lifted up mine hand to give them, where they saw a high hill, or a thick tree, there they offered their sacrifices, and there they brought their hostile gifts, and there they burnt incense of their sweet savour, and there they poured out their drink offerings. 29. And I said unto them: What is this high place whither ye go? And so it is called the high place unto this day. 30. Say therefore unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Ye have defiled yourselves in the manner of your fathers, and have committed fornication with their abominations. 31. And defile yourselves in your idols, to whom ye offer your gifts, and burn your sons and your daughters by fire, unto this day: and I should ask you of the. And I should ask you of the house of Israel? As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will be unasked of you. 32. For that ye think that we will do as the heathen do, and worship wood and stone, as other men do in the countries, ye shall lack that. 33. As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will rule over you with a strong hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with fury poured out; 34. And I will bring you out of the nations, and gather you out of the countries whither ye are scattered, with a strong hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with fury poured out; 35. And I will bring you into the wilderness of the nations, and there I will come face to face with you. 36. As I dealt with your fathers in the wilderness of Egypt, so will I deal with you, saith the Lord GOD. 37. I will surely bring you under the rod, and compel you into the bonds of the covenant. 38. And I will sweep out from among you the apostates that transgress against me: yea, out of the land where ye dwell I will bring them, and will not suffer them to come into the land of Israel, that ye may learn that I am the LORD. 39. Therefore, ye of the house of Israel, thus saith the LORD GOD; Because ye will not obey me, go and serve every man his own idol; but leave my holy name henceforth undefiled with your sacrifices and your idols. 40. For thus saith the LORD GOD; In my holy mountain, in the high mountain of Israel, there shall all the house of Israel and all that are in the land serve me: there shall they be acceptable unto me: and there will I require your heave offerings, and the firstfruits of your sacrifices, with all that ye sanctify unto me. 41. Ye shall be acceptable unto me with a sweet savour, when I shall bring you out of the nations, and gather you out of the countries whither ye are scattered, and shall be sanctified in you before the heathen. 42. And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have brought you into the land of Israel, into the land which I lifted up mine hand to give unto your fathers. 43. There ye shall remember your ways, and all your doings, wherein ye are defiled; and ye shall be displeased with all your wickedness which ye have done, 44. And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I do with you for my name's sake, and not according to your wickedness and your evil doings, O house of Israel, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 21 Sword of the Chaldeans against the Jews and Ammonites. 45. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 46. Son of man, set thy face toward the south wind, and prophesy toward the south, and prophesy against the wood of the field toward the south. 47. And say unto the wood toward the south, Hear the word of the LORD. Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will kindle a fire in thee, and it shall devour both green and dry trees; and the flame thereof shall not be quenched, but all that standeth from the south toward the north shall be burned up. 48. And all flesh shall see that I the LORD have kindled it, and that none shall quench it. 49. And I said, O Lord GOD, they say of me, This man speaketh vain words. Ch. 21. v. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, set thy face against Jerusalem, and prophesy against the sanctuaries, and prophesy against the land of Israel. 3. And say unto the land of Israel, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I am against thee; I will unsheathe my sword, and will cut off from thee both the righteous and the unrighteous. 4. Because I have cut off in thee both the righteous and the unrighteous, my sword shall come forth out of the sheath upon all flesh from the south even unto the north. 5. And all flesh shall know that I the LORD have drawn my sword out of the sheath thereof; and it shall not be put in again. 6. And thou, son of man, shalt groan until thy loins be sore: yea, thou shalt groan bitterly, that they may see it. 7. And when they shall say unto thee: Wherefore sighest thou? thou shalt say, Because of the cry which is coming, before which all hearts shall despair, and all hands shall fall, and all courage shall fail, and all knees shall go down like water. Behold, it cometh, and it shall come to pass, saith the Lord GOD. 8. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 9. Son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD; Say, The sword, yea, the sword is sharpened and swept. 10. It is sharpened, that it may slay; it is swept, that it may blink. O how glad we would be, if he had made all the trees rods over the wicked children! 11. But he hath given a sword to sweep, to take hold of: it is sharpened and swept, that it may be put into the hand of the slayer. 12. Cry and howl, thou son of man: for it is upon my people, and upon all the rulers of Israel, which are gathered to the sword with my people. Therefore smite upon thy loins: 13. For he hath often chastened them: what profit is it? The rod of the wicked child is of no avail, saith the Lord GOD. 14. And thou, son of man, prophesy, and smite thy hands together. For the sword shall come twofold, yea, threefold, a choking sword, a sword of great slaughter, which shall also smite them in the chambers where they flee. 15. I will sound the sword, and the hearts shall be troubled, and many shall fall at all their gates. Oh, how it shines, and how it is hammered to the battle! 16. And say: Thrust in, both on the right hand and on the left, that which is before thee. 17. Then will I rejoice with my hands, and let go my wrath. I, the LORD, have said it. 18. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 19. Son of man, make two ways by which the sword of the king of Babylon shall come; and they shall both come out of one land. 20. And put a sign in the front of the way to the city, whither it shall point: and make the way, that the sword may come to Rabbath of the children of Ammon, and to Judah, unto the strong city Jerusalem. 21. For the king of Babylon shall stand by the way side, in the front of the two ways, to prophesy, to shoot arrows at the lot, to inquire of his idol, and to look upon the liver. 22. And the prophecy shall point to the right side to Jerusalem, that he should bring in goats, and make holes, and attack them with a great cry, and slay them; and that he should bring in goats against the gates, and make a wall there, and build a stronghold. 23. But they shall think such divination false, that he may swear as much as he pleaseth. But he shall think of iniquity, that he may gain it. 24. Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye are remembered for your iniquity, and your rebellion is made manifest, and your sin is seen in all your doings; yea, because ye are remembered, ye shall be taken with violence. 25. And thou, O ruler of Israel, who art condemned and condemned, when the day cometh, when iniquity is ended, 26. Thus saith the Lord GOD; Take off thy hat, and lift up thy crown. For neither the hat nor the crown shall remain: but he that is exalted shall be humbled, and he that is brought low shall be exalted. 27. I will bring the crown to nought, to nought, to nought, until he come that shall have it: to him will I give it. 28. And thou, son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD GOD concerning the children of Ammon, and concerning their reproach; and say, The sword, the sword is drawn, that it may slay; it is swept, that it may choke, and it shall flash, 29. Because thou hast caused false visions to be told thee, and hast prophesied lies, that thou also mightest be delivered up among the slain of the wicked, to whom their day came, when iniquity was at an end. 30. Though it be put again into the sheath, yet will I judge thee in the place wherein thou wast made, and in the land wherein thou wast born. 31. And I will pour out my wrath upon thee, and I will puff up the fire of my fury upon thee, and I will deliver thee unto men that can burn and destroy. 32. Thou shalt be food for the fire, and thy blood shall be shed in the land; and thou shalt be remembered no more. For I the LORD have spoken it. (Ezekial) Chapter 22 The sins of the Jews a cause of their captivity and other punishments. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, wilt thou not punish the murderous city, and shew her all her abominations? 3. Say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; O city, that thou shedest the blood of thine own, that thy time may come, and that thou makest idols among thyself, to defile thyself! 4. Thou art guilty of the blood which thou hast shed, and thou hast defiled thyself with the idols which thou hast made: thou hast brought thy days, and thou hast made thy years to come. Therefore will I make thee a mockery among the nations, And a scorn in all lands. 5. Both near and far shall they mock thee; and thou shalt have a vile report, and great mourning. 6. Behold the princes of Israel! Every one of them is mighty with thee to shed blood. 7. They despise the father and the mother; they do violence and wrong to the stranger; they oppress the widow and the fatherless. 8. Thou despisest my sanctuaries, and desecratest my sabbaths. 9. Traitors are in thee, that they may shed blood. They eat upon the mountains, and act wantonly in thee; 10. They blaspheme the shame of the fathers, and compel the women in their sickness. 11. And they commit abominations among themselves, friend with friend's wife; they defile their own cords with all wantonness; they ravish their own sisters, their father's daughters; 12. They take gifts, that they may shed blood; they usurp and overreach one another, and do covetousness against their neighbour, and do violence one to another, and so forget me, saith the LORD GOD. 13. Behold, I smite my hands together for the covetousness which thou hast done, and for the blood which is shed in thee. 14. But thinkest thou that thine heart shall suffer it, or that thine hands shall bear it, in the day that I shall do it unto thee? I the LORD have spoken it, and will do it. 15. And I will scatter thee among the heathen, and cast thee out into the countries, and will make an end of thy filthiness, 16. That thou shouldest be accursed among the heathen, and know that I am the LORD. 17. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 18. Son of man, the house of Israel is become foam unto me: all their brass, and their tin, and their iron, and their lead, is become silver foam in the furnace. 19. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Because ye are all foamed, behold, I will gather you all together unto Jerusalem. 20. As silver, brass, iron, lead, and tin, are gathered together in a furnace, and a fire is kindled under them, and they are melted: so will I gather you together in mine anger and my fury, and will put them in and melt them. 21. Yea, I will gather you together, and will blow up the fire of my wrath among you, and ye shall melt within. 22. As silver melts in the furnace, so shall ye melt within, and ye shall know that I the LORD have poured out my wrath upon you. 23. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 24. Son of man, say to them: You are a land not to be cleansed, as one that is not watered in the time of wrath. 25. The prophets that are within are ready to devour souls, as a roaring lion when it spoileth: they take goods and money, and make widows much within. 26. Their priests have transgressed my law, and have profaned my sanctuary; they have made no distinction between the holy and the unholy, neither have they taught me that which is clean or that which is unclean, neither have they kept my sabbaths: and I am profaned among them. 27. Their princes are within, as the ravening wolves, to shed blood, and to slay souls, for their avarice's sake. 28. And their prophets whitewash them with loose lime, and preach loose teidings, and prophesy lies unto them, saying, Thus saith the LORD GOD; when the LORD hath not spoken it. 29. The people of the land do violence, and spoil, and rob, and afflict the poor and the miserable, and do violence and injustice to strangers. 30. I sought among them if any man would make himself a wall, and stand against the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. 31. Therefore I poured out mine indignation upon them, and with the fire of my wrath I made an end of them, and gave them their reward upon their head, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 23 Comparing the kingdoms of Judah and Israel to two harlots. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, there were two women, daughters of one mother. 3. They committed fornication in Egypt in their youth: there they made their breasts to be grasped, and the teats of their virginity to be felt. 4. The name of the great one is Ahalah, and her sister's name is Ahalibah. And I took them in marriage, and they begat me sons and daughters. And Ahalah's name is Samaria, and Ahalibah's name is Jerusalem. 5. And Ahalah committed fornication when I had taken her, and burned against her lovers, even against the Assyrians that came unto her, 6. Against the princes, and against the lords clothed in silk, and against all the young lovelies, even against the horsemen and chariots. 7. And booed with all the fair fellows of Assyria, and defiled herself with all their idols, where she burned upon one. 8. Neither forsook she her fornication with Egypt, which had lain with her from her youth, and had touched the breasts of her virginity, and had committed great fornication with her. 9. And I delivered her into the hand of her lovers, the children of Assyria, against whom she burned with lust. 10. And they uncovered their shame, and took away their sons and their daughters, and slew them with the sword. And it came to pass, that these women were punished. 11. And when Ahalibah her sister saw it, she was more enraged than she, and did more fornication than her sister. 12. And she burned against the children of Assyria, namely, the princes and the lords that came unto her well clothed, horsemen and chariots, and all the young men that were lovely. 13. And I saw that they were both defiled alike. 14. But this woman did more fornication. For there she saw painted men on the wall in red paint, the images of the Chaldeans, 15. Girded about their loins, and coloured tapers upon their heads, and all like unto mighty men to look upon, as the children of Babylon and the Chaldeans bear in their fatherland, 16. And she was aroused against them as soon as she knew them, and sent tidings unto them into Chaldea. 17. And when the children of Babylon came unto her to lie with her after love, they defiled her with their fornication, and she defiled herself with them, that she was weary of them. 18. And when both their fornication and their shame were so manifest, I was weary of them also, as I had been weary of their sister. 19. And she committed her whoredom more and more, and remembered the days of her youth, when she committed whoredom in the land of Egypt, 20. And they burned against their lovers, whose heat was as the heat of the ass, and as the heat of the stallions. 21. And thou hast appointed thy fornication as in thy youth, when they that were in Egypt took hold of thy breasts, and touched thy teats. 22. Therefore, O Ahalibah, thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will raise up against thee thine enemies, of whom thou art weary, and will bring them against thee round about, 23. Namely, the children of Babylon, and all the Chaldeans with captains, and princes, and lords, and all the Assyrians with them, and the fair young men, and all the princes, and lords, and knights, and nobles, and all manner of horsemen. 24. And they shall come upon thee armed with chariots, and with wheels, and with a great multitude of people, and shall besiege thee with shields, and with bucklers, and with helmets round about. And I will give them judgment, and they shall judge thee according to their judgment. 25. I will bring my zeal upon thee, and they shall deal unmercifully with thee. They shall cut off thy noses and ears; and that which remaineth shall fall by the sword. They shall take away thy sons and thy daughters, and burn the remnant with fire. 26. And they shall strip thee of thy garments, and take away thy jewels. 27. So will I make an end of thy fornication and thy whoredom with the land of Egypt, and thou shalt lift up thine eyes unto them no more, neither shalt thou remember Egypt any more. 28. For thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will deliver thee up to them of whom thou art an enemy, and of whom thou art weary. 29. They shall deal with thee as enemies, and take away all that thou hast gotten, and leave thee naked and bare, that thy shame may be exposed, with thy fornication and thy whoredom. 30. This shall be done unto thee for thy whoredom, which thou hast committed with the heathen, in whose idols thou hast defiled thyself. 31. Thou hast walked in the way of thy sister: therefore I also give thee the same cup in thine hand. 32. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Thou shalt drink thy sister's cup, deep and wide; thou shalt become such a mockery and a scorn, that it shall be unbearable. 33. Thou must drink thyself full of strong drink and mourning: for the cup of thy sister Samaria is a cup of mourning and grief. 34. Thou shalt drink the same clean, and afterward shalt cast the fragments thereof, and rend thy breasts: for I have spoken it, saith the LORD GOD. 35. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Because thou hast forgotten me, and hast cast me behind thy back, bear now thy fornication and thy whoredom. 36. And the LORD said unto me, Son of man, if thou wilt punish Ahalah and Ahalibah, shew them their abominations, 37. How they have committed adultery, and shed blood, and committed adultery with idols, and burned their children, which they begat of me, for a sacrifice unto them. 38. For these things have they done unto me: they have polluted my sanctuaries at that time, and have profaned my sabbaths. 39. For when they had slain their children to idols, they entered into my sanctuary the same day to profane it. Behold, they have done this in my house. 40. They also sent messengers for men that should come from far countries: and, behold, when they were come, thou wast bathed, and made up, and adornedst thyself with jewels, in honour of them, 41. And thou satest upon a glorious bed, before which was a table prepared: thereon thou didst burn incense, and didst offer my oil thereon. 42. And there was a great shout of joy: and they gave to the people that were come from every part of the great people, and from the wilderness, jewels for their arms, and beautiful crowns for their heads. 43. And I said, She is accustomed to adultery of old, she cannot leave off her fornication. 44. For one goeth in unto her, as one goeth in unto a harlot: so goeth one in unto Ahalah and Ahalibah, the lewd women. 45. Therefore they shall punish the men that execute judgment, as adulteresses and bloodshedters shall be punished: for they are adulteresses, and their hands are full of blood. 46. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Bring up a great multitude upon them, and give them into rapine and robbery, 47. Who stone them, and stab them with their swords, and slay their sons and their daughters, and burn their houses with fire. 48. So will I make an end of fornication in the land, and all the women shall be offended at it, and shall not do after such fornication. 49. And they shall lay your fornication upon you, and ye shall bear the sin of your idols, that ye may know that I am the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 24 Destruction of Jerusalem, by a boiling pot and quick death of Ezekiel's wife pictured. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me in the ninth year, in the tenth day of the tenth month, saying: 2. Son of man, mark this day, even this very day: for the king of Babylon hath arrayed himself against Jerusalem this very day. 3. And give a parable unto the disobedient people, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Put in a pot; put in a pot, and pour water into it. 4. Put therein the pieces together that are to go in, and the best pieces, the loins and the shoulders, and fill it with the best marrow. 5. Take the best of the hearth, and make a fire under it to boil marrow, and let it boil safely, and let the marrow boil well therein. 6. Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; O that murderous city, which is such a pot, where the burnt things are stuck in it, and will not come out! Put out one piece at a time, and let not the pieces be divided as to which shall come out first. 7. For her blood is within, which she spilled upon a rock, and not upon the ground, when it might have been covered with earth. 8. And for this cause also have I caused them to pour out the same blood upon a rock, that it should not be covered, that wrath should come upon them, and be smelled. 9. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; O thou murderous city, which I will make a great fire! 10. Only bring plenty of wood, and kindle the fire, that the meat may be cooked, and season it well, that the marrow may be burned. 11. Put also the pot empty upon the fire, that it may be hot, and that the brass thereof may burn, whether the uncleanness thereof be melted, and the burning thereof be removed. 12. But that which is burned, how nearly it burneth, will not depart, because it is too much burned; it must be melted in the fire. 13. Thine uncleanness is so hardened, that though I would gladly cleanse thee, yet thou wilt not be cleansed from thine uncleanness. Therefore thou shalt not be clean again until my wrath be cooled in thee. 14. I the LORD have spoken it; it shall come. I will do it, and will not tarry: I will not spare, neither will I be sorry: but they shall judge thee, as thou hast lived, and as thou hast done, saith the LORD GOD. 15. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 16. Son of man, behold, I will take away the lust of thine eyes by a plague. But thou shalt not mourn, nor weep, nor shed a tear. 17. Thou mayest sigh in secret, but thou shalt not mourn: thou shalt put on thy ornaments, and shalt put on thy shoes. Thou shalt not cover thy mouth, nor eat the bread of mourning. 18. And it came to pass, when I spake early in the morning unto the people, that at even my wife died. And I did on the morrow as I was commanded. 19. And the people said unto me, Wilt thou not shew us what these things are that thou doest? 20. And I said unto them: The LORD spake unto me, saying: 21. Tell the house of Israel, that thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will desecrate my sanctuary, which is your chief comfort, the delight of your eyes, and the desire of your heart; and your sons and your daughters, whom ye shall leave, shall fall by the sword; 22. And ye must do as I have done: ye must not cover your mouth, neither eat the mourning bread, 23. But put your jewels upon your heads, and put on your shoes. Ye shall not mourn, nor weep, but shall pine away for your sins, and groan among yourselves. 24. And Ezekiel shall be a wonder unto you, that ye should do as he hath done, when it shall come to pass, that ye may know that I am the LORD GOD. 25. And thou, son of man, in that day when I shall take away from them their power and their comfort, the delight of their eyes and the desire of their heart, their sons and their daughters, 26. And in that day shall one that escaped come to thee, and tell thee. 27. In that day thy mouth shall be opened, and he that escapeth, that thou shalt speak, and shalt no more hold thy peace: for thou shalt be their wonder, that they may know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 25 Threatened punishment against the Ammonites, Moabites, Edomites and Philistines. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, set thy face against the children of Ammon, and prophesy against them. 3. And say unto the children of Ammon, Hear ye the word of the LORD GOD. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because ye have said of my sanctuary, It is polluted; and of the land of Israel, It is desolate; and of the house of Judah, It is carried away captive. 4. Therefore, behold, I will give thee to the children toward the east, and they shall build their castles within, and make their habitation therein: they shall eat thy fruit, and drink thy milk. 5. And I will make Rabbath a sheepfold for camels, and the children of Ammon a fold for sheep: and they shall know that I am the LORD. 6. For thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thou hast clapped thy hands, and shaved thy feet, and rejoiced in the land of Israel with all thine heart, 7. Therefore, behold, I will stretch out mine hand upon thee, and will give thee for a prey unto the heathen, and will cut thee off from among the nations, and will destroy thee out of the countries; and thou shalt know that I am the LORD. 8. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because Moab and Seir say, Behold, the house of Judah is even as all the nations, 9. Behold, I will open Moab aside in his cities, and in his borders of the noble land, even Beth-jesimoth, Baal-meon, and Kiriathaim, 10. To the children of the east with the children of Ammon; and I will give them for an inheritance, and the children of Ammon shall no more be remembered among the heathen. 11. And I will execute judgment upon Moab, and they shall know that I am the LORD. 12. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because Edom hath avenged herself on the house of Judah, and hath been guilty of her revenge, 13. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD: I will stretch out mine hand upon Edom, and will cut off from it both man and beast; and I will make it desolate from Theman even unto Dedan, and will cut it down by the sword. 14. And I will avenge myself on Edom by my people Israel, and they shall deal with Edom according to mine anger and my fury, and they shall know my vengeance, saith the LORD GOD. 15. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because the Philistines have avenged themselves, and have atoned for the old hatred according to all their will in the hurt of my people, 16. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will stretch out mine hand upon the Philistines, and will cut off the warriors, and will destroy the remnant that are by the sea port. 17. And I will execute great vengeance upon them, and will punish them with fury; and they shall know that I am the LORD, when I have executed my vengeance upon them. (Ezekial) Chapter 26 Prophecy against Tyre. 1. And it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first day of the first month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, because Tyre saith concerning Jerusalem, Heh, the gates of the nations are broken, it is turned unto me; I will now be filled, because she is desolate: 3. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Tyre; and I will bring up many nations against thee, as the sea riseth up with the waves thereof. 4. They shall destroy the walls of Tyre, and break down the towers thereof: yea, I will also sweep away the dust from before her, and will make her a mere rock. 5. And for a value in the sea, whereon they stretch out the fishes' yarns: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord GOD, and it shall be a prey to the heathen. 6. And their daughters that lie in the field shall be slain with the sword: and they shall know that I am the LORD. 7. For thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will cause Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon to come upon Tyre from the north, a king of kings, with horses, and with chariots, and with horsemen, and with a great multitude of people. 8. And he shall slay thy daughters that lie in the field with the sword: but against thee shall he pitch a fortress, and make a ruin, and prepare shields against thee. 9. He shall break down thy walls with goats, and shall overthrow thy towers with his weapons. 10. The dust of the multitude of his horses shall cover thee: thy walls also shall shake with the tumult of his horses, and of his wheels, and of his horsemen, when he cometh in at thy gates, as one cometh in at a broken city. 11. He shall tread down all thy streets with the feet of his horses. Thy people shall he slay with the sword, and thy strong pillars shall he pull down to the ground. 12. They shall spoil thy goods, and plunder thy commerce. Thy walls shall they break down, and thy fine houses shall they overthrow; and they shall cast thy stones and thy timber and thy dust into the waters. 13. So will I make an end of the sound of thy singing, that the sound of thy harps shall be heard no more. 14. And I will make of thee a mere rock, and a rock for a fish twine, and thou shalt not be built any more: for I am the LORD that speaketh these things, saith the LORD GOD. 15. Thus saith the LORD against Tyre, What matter, the isles shall tremble, when thou shalt be cut down so vilely, and thy wounded shall groan, when they shall be slain in thee. 16. All the princes of the sea shall sit down from off their seats, and shall put off their robes, and shall put off their embroidered garments, and shall walk in mourning, and shall sit upon the earth, and shall be afraid, and shall be astonished at thy sudden falling. 17. And they shall lament thee, and say of thee, Alas, how art thou become desolate, thou great city, which was by the sea, and so mighty upon the sea, with thy inhabitants, that all the land was afraid of thee. 18. Oh, how the isles are dismayed at thy fall! Yea, the isles of the sea are dismayed at thy fall. 19. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will make thee a desolate city, as other cities, where no man dwelleth therein; and I will bring upon thee a great flood, and great waters shall cover thee. 20. And I will cast thee down with them that go down to the pit, even with the dead. I will cast thee under the earth, and make thee as an everlasting desolation with them that go down to the pit; that no man dwell in thee. I will make thee, O tender one, in the land of the living, 21. Yea, I will make thee a terror, that thou shalt be nothing: and if any man inquire of thee, he shall never find thee, saith the Lord GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 27 Lament over the destruction of Tyre. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, make a lamentation for Tyre. 3. And say unto Tyre, which lieth by the sea, and traffitteth with many isles of the nations: Thus saith the LORD GOD; O Tyre, thou sayest, I am the most beautiful. 4. Thy borders are in the midst of the sea, and thy builders have made thee most beautiful. 5. They have made all thy table-work of cypress wood of the Sanir, and have led the cedars of Lebanon, and have made thy mast-trees of them. 6. And, thy oars of oaks out of Bashan, and thy benches of ivory, and the goodly chairs out of the isles of Chittim. 7. Thy sail was of embroidered silk out of Egypt, to be thy banner; and thy covering of yellow silk and purple out of the isles of Elisha. 8. They of Zidon and Arvad were thy oarsmen, and thou hadst skillful men to ship to Tyre. 9. The elders and the wise men of Gebal made thy ships. All the ships of the sea, and the mariners, were found in thee: they had their trade in thee. 10. They that came out of Persia, and Lydia, and Libya, were thy people of war, that put up their shield and their helmet in thee, and made thee so fair. 11. They of Arvad were among thy host round about thy walls, and watchmen upon thy towers: they have hung down their shields from thy walls every where, and have made thee fair. 12. Thou hast had thy trade upon the sea, and hast brought all manner of merchandise, silver, iron, tin, and lead, into thy markets. 13. Javan, and Thubal, and Mesech, have traded with thee, and have brought thee bondmen and brass into thy markets. 14. They of Thogarmah have brought thee horses and chariots and mules to thy markets. 15. They of Dedan have been thy merchants, and have traded in all the isles: they have sold thee ivory and ebony. 16. The Syrians have bought from thee thy work which thou hast made, and brought into thy markets ruby, and purple, and tapestry, and silk, and silk waste, and crystals. 17. Judah also and the land of Israel have traded with thee, and have brought thee wheat of Minnith, and balm, and honey, and oil, and mastic, into thy markets; 18. And Damascus also hath offered unto thee thy work, and all manner of merchandise, and strong wine, and fine wool. 19. Dan, and Javan, and Mehusal, have also brought into thy markets the ironwork, and the cassia, and the calamus, to trade with thee. 20. Dedan hath dealt with thee in decks to sit upon. 21. Arabia and all the princes of Kedar have dealt with thee in sheep rams and goats. 22. The merchants of Sheba and Raema have traded with thee, and brought into thy markets all manner of precious spices, and precious stone, and gold. 23. Haran, and Kanne, and Eden, and the merchants of Sheba, and Assyria, and Kilmad, have been thy merchants. 24. They have all traded with thee in precious raiment, in silken and embroidered cloths, which they have brought into thy markets in precious boxes made of cedar, and well kept. 25. But the ships of the sea have been the chief of thy markets. So thou hast become very rich and glorious in the midst of the sea. 26. And thy shipmen have led thee upon great waters. But an east wind shall break thee up in the midst of the sea, 27. also daß deine Ware, Kaufleute, Händler, Fergen, Schiffsherren und die, so die Schiffe machen, und deine Hantierer und alle deine Kriegsleute und alles Volk in dir mitten auf dem Meer umkommen werden zur Zeit, wenn du untergehest, 28. And the seas shall shake at the cry of thy shipmasters. 29. And all that pull the oars, and the masters, and the servants, shall be taken out of the ships unto the sea. tread land 30. And cry aloud against thee, and mourn bitterly, and shall cast dust upon their heads, and roll themselves in ashes. 31. They shall be bald upon thee, and shall gird sackcloth about thee, and shall weep bitterly for thee with their hearts, and shall mourn for thee. 32. Their children also shall lament over thee, Alas, who ever was so still on the sea as thou, O Tyre? 33. When thou didst trade upon the sea, thou didst make many countries rich; yea, with the multitude of thy merchandise and of thy trade thou didst make the kings of the earth rich. 34. But now thou art plunged from the sea into the very deep waters, so that thy commerce and all thy people are perished in thee. 35. All they that dwell in isles are terrified at thee, and their kings are astonished, and they look miserably. 36. The merchants of countries whistle at thee, that thou art gone down so suddenly, and canst not arise again. (Ezekial) Chapter 28 Of the downfall of the king of Tyre and the Zidonians. Redemption of the people of God. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyre, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and saith, I am GOD, I sit in the throne of GOD, in the midst of the sea, though thou be a man, and not GOD: yet is thy heart lifted up as the heart of GOD; 3. Behold, thou thinkest thyself wiser than Daniel, that nothing is hid from thee, 4. And by thy wisdom and understanding thou hast wrought such power, and gathered treasures of gold and silver. 5. And by thy great wisdom and mightiness thou hast obtained so great power, and hast become so proud that thou art mighty: 6. Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thy heart is lifted up as the heart of GOD, 7. Therefore, behold, I will send strangers upon thee, even the tyrants of the heathen; and they shall draw their sword upon thy fair wisdom, and shall put thy great honour to shame. 8. And they shall cast thee into the pit, and thou shalt die in the midst of the sea, as the slain. 9. What matter if thou then shalt say before thy slayer, I am God; when thou art not God, but a man, and in the hand of thy slayer? 10. Thou shalt die, as the uncircumcised, at the hand of the stranger: for I have spoken it, saith the LORD GOD. 11. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 12. Son of man, make a lamentation for the king of Tyre, and say of him, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Thou art a pure seal, full of wisdom, and fair beyond measure. 13. Thou art in the garden of pleasure of God, adorned with all manner of precious stones, namely, sardius, topaz, demonds, turquoise, onyx, jasper, sapphire, amethyst, emeralds, and gold. On the day thou wast created, thy timbrel and thy pipes were ready with thee. 14. Thou art as a cherub spreading abroad and covering: and I have set thee upon the holy mountain of God, to walk among the fiery stones, 15. And were without change in thy doings from the day that thou wast created, until thine iniquity was found. 16. For inwardly thou hast become full of iniquity because of thy great wickedness, and hast sinned. Therefore will I desecrate thee from off the mount of God, and will cast thee out of the fiery stones, a cherub spread abroad. 17. And because thine heart is lifted up, because thou art fair, and because thy wisdom hath deceived thee in thy splendor, therefore will I cast thee down to the ground, and make a spectacle of thee before the kings. 18. For thou hast corrupted thy sanctuary with thy great iniquity and unrighteousness. Therefore will I cause a fire to come up out of thee, and it shall devour thee; and I will make thee as ashes upon the earth, and all the world shall behold. 19. All they that know thee among the heathen shall be astonished at thee, because thou hast perished so suddenly, and canst never rise again. 20. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 21. Son of man, set thy face against Zidon, and prophesy against them. 22. And say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will put honour upon thee, Zidon, and will put honour upon thee, that it may be known that I am the LORD, when I shall execute judgment upon her, and she shall shew that I am holy. 23. And I will send pestilence and bloodshed among them in their streets, and they shall fall deadly wounded within by the sword, which shall go upon them every where; and they shall know that I am the LORD. 24. And from henceforth there shall not be left round about the house of Israel, where their enemies are, a thorn to prick, nor a sting to hurt: that they may know that I am the LORD GOD. 25. Thus saith the LORD GOD; When I shall gather again the house of Israel from among the nations whither they are scattered, then will I shew them before the heathen that I am holy. And they shall dwell in their land, which I have given unto Jacob my servant; 26. And they shall dwell securely therein, and build houses, and plant vineyards: yea, securely shall they dwell, when I shall execute judgment upon all their enemies round about: and they shall know that I am the LORD their GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 29 Prophecy about the kingdom of Egypt. 1. In the tenth year, on the tenth day of the twelfth month, the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, set thy face against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and prophesy against him, and against all the land of Egypt. 3. Preach, and say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Pharaoh, king of Egypt, thou great dragon, which liest in thy waters, saying, The river is mine, and I have made it mine. 4. But I will put a bit in thy mouth, and will hang the fish of thy waters upon thy scales, and will pull thee out of thy river, and all the fish of thy waters that hang upon thy scales. 5. I will cast thee out of thy waters into the wilderness with the fishes: thou shalt fall upon the land, and shalt not be gathered nor gathered again, but shalt become the carcase of the beasts of the earth, and of the fowls of the air. 6. And all they that dwell in Egypt shall know that I am the LORD, because they have been a rod of reed unto the house of Israel, 7. Which, when they took hold of him in the hand, he brake, and thrust them through the sides: but when they leaned upon him, he brake, and thrust them through the loins. 8. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will bring the sword upon thee, and will cut off both man and beast from within thee. 9. And the land of Egypt shall be desolate and waste; and they shall know that I am the LORD, because he saith, The river is mine, and I am he that doeth it. 10. Therefore, behold, I am against thee, and against thy rivers, and will make the land of Egypt desolate and waste from the tower of Syene unto the border of the land of Moor, 11. That neither cattle nor people go therein, nor dwell therein, forty years. 12. For I will make the land of Egypt desolate, I will make her border desolate, and her cities desolate, as other desolate cities, forty years: and I will scatter the Egyptians among the heathen, and into the countries will I drive them out. 13. But thus saith the LORD GOD; When the forty years are expired, I will gather the Egyptians again out of the nations, and they shall be scattered abroad, 14. And I will turn the prison of Egypt, and bring them again into the land of Pathros, which is their fatherland, and there they shall be a little kingdom. 15. For they shall be small against other kingdoms, and shall reign no more over the heathen: and I will make them small, and they shall reign no more over the heathen, 16. That the house of Israel trust no more in them, and sin in them, when they cleave unto them: and they shall know that I am the LORD GOD. 17. And it came to pass in the seven and twentieth year, in the first day of the first month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 18. Son of man, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon brought his army before Tyre with great difficulty, so that all the heads were bald and all the sides were sore, and yet neither he nor his army was rewarded for his work before Tyre. 19. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will give to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon the land of Egypt, and he shall take away all their goods, and spoil them, and plunder them, and give pay unto his army. 20. But the land of Egypt will I give him for his work which he hath done therein: for they have served me, saith the LORD GOD. 21. In that day will I cause the horn of the house of Israel to grow, and will open thy mouth among them, and they shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 30 Prophecy about the land of Egypt and the king Pharaoh. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Heulet (and say), O woe to the day! 3. For the day is at hand, yea, the day of the LORD is at hand, a dark day: the time is come for the Gentiles to come. 4. And the sword shall come upon Egypt, and the land of Moor shall be afraid, when the slain of Egypt shall fall, and her people shall be carried away, and her foundations shall be thrown down. 5. The land of Moor, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the rabble, and Chub, and they that are of the land of the covenant, shall fall by the sword with them. 6. Thus saith the LORD; The patrons of Egypt shall fall, and the arrogance of their power shall come down; from the tower of Syene they shall fall by the sword, saith the LORD, 7. And they shall be desolate, as their desolate border, and their cities shall be desolate among other desolate cities, 8. That they may know that I am the LORD, when I make a fire in Egypt, and all that help them shall be destroyed. 9. In that day shall messengers go forth from me in ships to terrorize the land of Moor, which is now so secure; and there shall be terror among them, as there was among Egypt, when their time came: for, behold, it cometh surely. 10. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will remove the multitude from Egypt by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. 11. For he, and his people with him, and the oppressors of the heathen, are brought to destroy the land, and shall draw out their swords against Egypt, and the land shall be full of slain in every place. 12. And I will make the rivers dry, and sell the land to evil men, and will make the land desolate, and all that is therein, by strangers. I the LORD have spoken it. 13. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will cut off the idols of Noph, and will destroy the idols; and Egypt shall have no more ruler; and I will send a terror into the land of Egypt. 14. I will make Pathros desolate, and I will kindle a fire in Zoan, and I will cause judgment to pass over No. 15. I will pour out my fury upon Sin, which is a stronghold of Egypt; and I will cut off the multitude from Noah. 16. I will kindle a fire in Egypt, and Sin shall be afraid; and No shall be torn, and Noph shall be troubled daily. 17. The young men of On and Bubasto shall fall by the sword, and the women shall be carried away captive. 18. Tachpanhes shall have a dark day, when I shall break the yoke of Egypt, and the proudness of her power shall be ended therein: she shall be covered with clouds, and her daughters shall be carried away captive. 19. And I will execute judgment upon Egypt, and they shall know that I am the LORD. 20. And it came to pass in the eleventh year, on the seventh day of the first month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 21. Son of man, I will break the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt: and, behold, it shall not be bound up, that it may heal; neither shall it be bound up with bands, that it may be strong, nor hold a sword. 22. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will break Pharaoh king of Egypt's arms, both strong and weak; and the sword shall be taken out of his hand. 23. And will scatter the Egyptians among the heathen, and drive them out into the countries. 24. But I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and put my sword into his hand; and I will break Pharaoh's arms, and he shall whimper before him as one mortally wounded. 25. Yea, I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and the arms of Pharaoh shall fall, that they may know that I am the LORD, when I put my sword into the hand of the king of Babylon, that he may draw it upon the land of Egypt, 26. And I will scatter the Egyptians among the heathen, and will drive them out into the countries, that they may know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 31 The previous prophecy is confirmed. 1. And it came to pass in the eleventh year, in the first day of the third month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, say unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, and unto all his people, To whom thinkest thou that thou art like unto thy glory? 3. Behold, Assyria was like a cedar tree in Lebanon, of goodly boughs, and thick of foliage, and very high; and the top thereof stood tall under great and thick branches. 4. The waters made him great, and the deep made him to grow up. The rivers thereof went round about his tribe, and the streams thereof unto all the trees of the field: 5. Therefore it grew taller than all the trees of the field, and had many branches and long boughs; for it had water enough to spread itself out. 6. All the fowls of the air made their nests in his boughs, and all the beasts of the field had young under his branches; and under his shadow dwelt all the great nations. 7. It had beautiful branches, large and long; for its roots had much water; 8. And there was no cedar tree like unto him in the garden of God, neither were the fir trees like unto his branches, neither were the chestnut trees like unto his boughs. Yea, he was as beautiful as no tree in the garden of GOD. 9. I made him so beautiful that he got so many branches that all the funny trees in the garden of God envied him. 10. Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because he was so high, that the top of his head was under great branches, high and thick; and his heart was lifted up, because he was so high, 11. Therefore I delivered him into the hand of the mightiest of the heathen, who dealt with him, and cast him out, as he deserved with his wickedness, 12. That strangers should cut him off, even the tyrants of the heathen, and scatter him; and his boughs should lie upon the mountains, and in all the valleys, and his branches should be broken by all the rivers of the land; that all the nations of the earth should depart from his shadow, and forsake him; 13. And all the fowls of the air sat upon his fallen trunk, and all the beasts of the field lay upon his branches, 14. That henceforth no tree by the waters may be lifted up from his height, that the top thereof may be under great and thick branches, neither may any tree by the waters be lifted up above the rest: for they must all be brought down to the earth, and be delivered unto death, as other men that go down to the pit. 15. Thus saith the LORD GOD; In the day that he went down to hell, I made a mourning for him, that the deep covered him, and his rivers stood still; and the great waters could not run, and made Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field to wither above him. 16. And I affrighted the heathen, when they heard him fall, when I cast him down to hell with them that go down to the pit. And all the goodly trees of the earth, the noblest and the best of Lebanon, and all that stood by the waters, were well pleased with him. 17. For they also went down with him to hell, to be slain with the sword, because they dwelt under the shadow of his arm among the heathen. 18. How great then thinkest thou that thou (Pharaoh) art among the goodly trees with thy glory and thy splendor? For thou shalt go down with the goodly trees into the earth, and shalt lie among the uncircumcised, slain with the sword. So shall Pharaoh and all his people be, saith the Lord GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 32 Lamentations over Egypt. 1. And it came to pass in the twelfth year, in the first day of the twelfth month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, make a lamentation against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and say unto him, Thou art as a lion among the heathen, and as a dragon of the sea, leaping in thy rivers, and muddying the waters with thy feet, and making the rivers thereof turbid. 3. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will cast my net over thee with a great multitude of people, which shall chase thee into my yarn. 4. And I will remove thee unto the land, and cast thee into the field; and all the fowls of the air shall sit upon thee, and all the beasts of the earth shall be satisfied with thee. 5. And will cast thy carcase upon the mountains, and fill the valleys with thy height. 6. The land wherein thou swimmest, I will make it red with thy blood unto the mountains, and the rivers shall be filled with thee. 7. And it shall come to pass, when thou art gone, that I will cover the heavens, and darken the stars thereof, and cover the sun with clouds, and the moon shall not give her light. 8. All the lights of heaven will I make dark upon thee, and will make darkness in thy land, saith the LORD GOD. 9. For this cause will I make the heart of many nations afraid, when I shall cause the heathen to know thy plague, and many countries which thou knowest not. 10. Many nations shall be astonished at thee, and their kings shall be afraid of thee, when I flash my sword against them; and they shall be sore afraid, and their hearts shall be troubled at thy fall. 11. For thus saith the LORD GOD; The sword of the king of Babylon shall smite thee. 12. And I will cut off thy people by the sword of valiant men, and by all the tyrannies of the heathen; and they shall devastate the glory of Egypt, and all her people shall be destroyed. 13. And I will destroy all their beasts by the great waters, and they shall not make any man's foot or any beast's hoof dull. 14. Then will I make their waters pure, and their rivers shall flow as oil, saith the LORD GOD, 15. When I have made desolate the land of Egypt, and have made desolate all that is in the land, and have slain all that dwell therein, that they may know that I am the LORD. 16. This shall be the lamentation that shall be heard: yea, many daughters of the heathen shall lament over Egypt, and all her people shall be lamented, saith the LORD GOD. 17. And it came to pass in the twelfth year, on the fifteenth day of the same month, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 18. Son of man, weep for the people of Egypt, and cast them down with the daughters of the strong nations under the earth unto them that go down to the pit. 19. Where then is thy lust? Down, and lie with the uncircumcised! 20. They shall fall among them that are slain with the sword. The sword is already grasped and drawn upon all their people. 21. Of these things shall the mighty men of valour say in hell, with their helpers, which are all gone down, and lie there among the uncircumcised, and slain with the sword. 22. There is Assyria buried, and all his people round about, all slain, and fallen by the sword. 23. Their graves are deep in the pit, and his people are buried round about, all slain, and fallen by the sword, because all the world feared. 24. There is Elam also buried round about with all his multitude, all of them slain, and fallen by the sword, and gone down as the uncircumcised into the earth, whereof all the world also feared: and they must bear their shame with them that go down to the pit. 25. They are laid among the slain with all their multitude, and lie buried round about: and they are all as the uncircumcised, and as those slain by the sword, of whom also all the world feared: and they must bear their shame with them that go down to the pit, and be left among them that are slain. 26. There lie buried Meshech and Thubal with all their multitude round about, all uncircumcised, and slain with the sword, of whom also the whole world feared, 27. And all the rest of the mighty men that fell among the uncircumcised, and went to hell with their weapons of war, and put their swords under their heads, and their iniquity came upon their bones, who also were mighty men of renown throughout all the earth: so they must lie. 28. And thou shalt be cut in pieces among the uncircumcised, and shalt lie down among them that are slain with the sword. 29. There is Edom, with her kings, and all her princes, among them that are slain with the sword, and among them that are uncircumcised, and among them that go down to the pit, which were mighty. 30. Yea, all the princes of the north, and all the Zidonians that went down with the slain, and their terrible power is put to shame, shall lie with the uncircumcised, and with them that are slain with the sword, and bear their shame with them that go down to the pit. 31. These shall Pharaoh see, and be comforted with all his people that are slain under him with the sword, and with all his host, saith the LORD GOD. 32. For all the earth shall fear me, and Pharaoh and all his multitude shall lie with the uncircumcised, and with them that are slain with the sword, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 33 Of the office of spiritual watchmen. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, preach against thy people, and say unto them: If I bring a sword upon the land, and the people of the land take a man from among them, and make him their watchman, 3. And he saw the sword come upon the land, and blew the trumpet, and warned the people: 4. Whosoever therefore heard the sound of the trumpet, and would not be warned, and the sword came and took him away, the blood thereof was upon his head; 5. For he heard the sound of the trumpets, and yet was not warned: therefore his blood be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall save his life. 6. And if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, nor warn his people, and the sword come and take away some, they shall be taken away for their sin: but I will require their blood at the hand of the watchman. 7. And now, thou son of man, I have set thee a watchman over the house of Israel, when thou shalt hear any thing out of my mouth, that thou mayest warn them from me. 8. If therefore I say unto the wicked, Thou wicked man shalt surely die; and thou sayest not unto him, that the wicked man may be warned of his nature: the wicked man shall surely die because of his wickedness, but his blood will I require at thine hand. 9. But if thou warn the wicked of his nature, that he turn from it, and he will not turn from his nature, he shall die for his sin, and thou shalt save thy soul. 10. Wherefore, thou son of man, say unto the house of Israel, Ye say thus, Our sins and iniquities are upon us, that we perish under them: how then can we live? 11. Say unto them, As surely as I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his evil ways, and live. Turn ye therefore from your evil nature. Why will ye die, ye of the house of Israel? 12. And thou, son of man, say unto thy people, If a righteous man do evil, it shall not profit him that he hath been righteous: and if an ungodly man be righteous, it shall not profit him that he hath been ungodly. So also the righteous cannot live if he sins. 13. For where I say unto the righteous, Let him live; and he trusteth in his righteousness, and doeth evil; all his piety shall not be remembered, but he shall die in his wickedness which he doeth. 14. And if I say unto the wicked, Let him die, and let him turn from his sin, and do that which is right and good, 15. So that the wicked shall restore the pledge, and pay that which he hath stolen, and walk in the word of life, that he do no evil; and he shall live, and not die, 16. And all his sins which he hath done shall not be remembered: for now he doeth that which is right and good: therefore he shall live. 17. Yet thy people say, The LORD judgeth not right, when they are wrong. 18. For if the righteous turn from his righteousness, and do evil, he shall surely die for it; 19. And if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is right and good, he shall live justly. 20. Nor say ye, The LORD judgeth not righteously, when I judge you every man of the house of Israel according to his character. 21. And it came to pass in the twelfth year of our prison, in the fifth day of the tenth month, that there came unto me a man escaped from Jerusalem, saying, The city is smitten. 22. And the hand of the LORD was upon me in the evening, before he that was escaped came; and he opened my mouth, until he came unto me in the morning, and opened my mouth, so that I could no more hold my peace. 23. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 24. Son of man, the inhabitants of this wilderness of the land of Israel say thus, Abraham was a few, and inherited this land: but ours is many, and we have the land more cheaply. 25. Say therefore unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Ye have devoured blood, and lifted up your eyes unto idols, and shed blood; and think ye that ye will possess the land? 26. Ye continue in murder, and in abominations, and in ravishing one another's wives, and think ye that ye will possess the land? 27. Speak unto them, saying, Thus saith the LORD GOD; As I live, all that dwell in the wilderness shall fall by the sword; and that which is in the field will I give to the beasts to eat: and they that are in strong holds and in dens shall die of the pestilence. 28. For I will make the land desolate, and will put an end to the glory thereof, and to the power thereof: and the mountains of Israel shall be desolate, and none shall pass through. 29. And they shall know that I am the LORD, when I have laid the land utterly waste, because of all their abominations which they commit. 30. And thou, son of man, thy people speak against thee upon the walls, and under the doors of the houses, saying one to another: Come, my beloved, and let us hear what the LORD saith. 31. And they shall come unto thee into the congregation, and shall sit before thee as my people, and shall hear thy words, but shall do nothing after them; but shall whistle at thee, and live after their covetousness. 32. And, behold, thou shalt be their song, which they shall gladly sing and play. So they will hear your words and do nothing after them. 33. But when that which is to come shall come, behold, they shall know that there was a prophet among them. (Ezekial) Chapter 34 Of unfaithful shepherds and Christ the faithful arch-shepherd. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Woe unto the shepherds of Israel that feed themselves! Shall not the shepherds feed the flock? 3. But ye eat the fat, and clothe yourselves with the wool, and slay that which is fattened; but ye will not feed the sheep. 4. The weak ye do not care for, neither do ye heal the sick, neither do ye bind up the wounded, neither do ye heal the lost, neither do ye seek the lost; but ye rule over them sternly and harshly. 5. And my sheep are scattered, as they that have no shepherd, and are become meat for all the wild beasts, and are utterly scattered. 6. And they go astray every now and then in the mountains, and in the high hills, and are scattered abroad in all the land: and there is none that seeketh after them, or regardeth them. 7. Therefore hear, ye shepherds, the word of the LORD. 8. As I live, saith the Lord GOD, because ye make my sheep a prey, and my flock meat for all the wild beasts; because they have no shepherd, and my shepherds ask not after my flock, but are such shepherds as feed themselves, but will not feed my sheep, 9. Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD. 10. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I am against the shepherds, and will take my flock out of their hand, and will make an end of them, that they shall no more be shepherds, neither shall they feed themselves any more. I will deliver my sheep out of their mouths, and they shall eat them no more. 11. For thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will take unto me my own flock, and will seek them. 12. As a shepherd seeketh his sheep, when they are gone astray from his flock; so will I seek my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places whither they were scattered, in the time of dimness and darkness. 13. I will bring them out from all nations, and gather them from all countries, and will bring them into their own land; and I will feed them in the mountains of Israel, and in all the pastures, and in all the coasts of the land. 14. I will lead them into the best pasture, and their hurdles shall be upon the high mountains of Israel: there shall they lie down in soft hurdles, and have fat pasture upon the mountains of Israel. 15. I will feed my sheep myself, and I will feed them, saith the LORD GOD. 16. I will seek that which is lost, and will bring again that which is gone astray, and will bind up that which is wounded, and will take care of that which is weak; and that which is fat and strong will I take care of, and will tend them according to their due. 17. But unto you, my flock, thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will judge between sheep and sheep, and between rams and goats. 18. Is it not enough that ye have such good pasture, and so superfluous that ye tread it under foot, and such fair borne to drink, so superfluous that ye tread in it, and make it muddy, 19. That my sheep should eat that which ye have trodden with your feet, and drink that which ye have made muddy with your feet? 20. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD unto them, Behold, I will judge between the fat and the lean sheep, 21. Because ye levy with your feet, and thrust away the weak from you with your horns, until ye scatter them all from among you. 22. And I will help my flock, that they be no more a prey: and I will judge between sheep and sheep. 23. And I will raise up unto them one shepherd to feed them, even David my servant. And he shall feed them, and be their shepherd. 24. And I the LORD will be their God: but David my servant shall be prince among them. Thus say I, the LORD. 25. And I will make a covenant of peace with them, and will cut off all the evil beasts out of the land, and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and shall sleep in the woods. 26. I will bless them, and all my hills round about, and rain upon them in due season. These shall be gracious rains, 27. And the trees of the field shall bring forth their fruit, and the land shall yield her increase: and they shall dwell safely in the land, and shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of them whom they served. 28. And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall any beast of the earth devour them any more; but they shall dwell safely without all fear. 29. And I will raise up unto them a famous plant, and they shall hunger no more in the land, neither shall they bear their reproach among the heathen any more. 30. And they shall know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they of the house of Israel are my people, saith the LORD GOD. 31. Ye shall be the flock of my pasture, and I will be your God, saith the Lord GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 35 Prophecy against the Edomites. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, set thy face against mount Seir, and prophesy against it. 3. And say unto the same, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will come upon thee, O mount Seir, and stretch out mine hand against thee, and will make thee desolate. 4. I will make thy cities desolate, and thou shalt be desolate, and shalt know that I am the LORD, 5. Because ye bear everlasting enmity against the children of Israel, and put them to the sword, when they were in evil, and their sin was ended. 6. Therefore, as I live, saith the LORD GOD, I will also make thee to bleed, and thou shalt not escape blood: because thou delightest in blood, thou shalt not escape blood. 7. And I will make mount Seir desolate and waste, and no man shall walk therein, nor go thither. 8. And I will fill his mountains, and all his hills, and his valleys, and all his valleys, with dead men, which shall be slain by the sword. 9. Yea, I will make thee an everlasting desolation, and none shall dwell in thy cities: and ye shall know that I am the LORD. 10. And because thou sayest, These two nations with both countries must become mine, and we will take them, though the LORD dwell there, 11. Therefore, as I live, saith the LORD GOD, I will deal with thee according to thine anger and thy hatred, as thou hast dealt with them out of pure hatred; and I will be known unto them, when I have punished thee, 12. And thou shalt know that I the LORD have heard thy blasphemy, when thou hast spoken against the mountains of Israel, saying, They are laid waste, and given to us to destroy. 13. And ye have boasted against me, and have spoken fiercely against me: I have heard it. 14. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will make thee a desolation, and all the earth shall rejoice. 15. And as thou didst rejoice over the inheritance of the house of Israel, because it was desolate; so will I do unto thee, that mount Seir shall be desolate, and all Edom: and they shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 36 The promise of salvation 1. And thou, son of man, prophesy unto the mountains of Israel, saying, Hear the word of the LORD, ye mountains of Israel. 2. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because the enemy hath cried out against you, saying, The everlasting high places are become our inheritance. 3. Therefore prophesy, and say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because ye are laid waste and destroyed in every place, and are come unto the remnant of the Gentiles, and are come into the mouths of men, and are become an evil cry, 4. Therefore hear, ye mountains of Israel, the word of the LORD GOD. Thus saith the Lord GOD both to the mountains, and to the hills; to the brooks, and to the valleys; to the waste deserts, and to the desolate cities, which are a prey and a mockery to the remnant of the heathen round about; 5. Yea, thus saith the Lord GOD; I have spoken my fiery zeal against the remnant of the heathen, and against all Edom, which have taken my land with gladness of heart, and with mocking laughter, to lay it waste and to spoil it. 6. Therefore prophesy from the land of Israel, and say unto the mountains, and unto the hills, and unto the rivers, and unto the valleys, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I have spoken in my zeal and in my fury, because ye bear reproach from the heathen. 7. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD: I lift up mine hand, that your neighbours the heathen round about may bear their reproach again. 8. But ye mountains of Israel shall green again, and bring forth your fruit unto my people Israel: and it shall be in a little season. 9. For, behold, I will turn again unto you, and look upon you, and ye shall be built, and ye shall be sown, 10. And I will multiply the people among you, all Israel: and the cities shall be inhabited again, and the deserts built. 11. Yea, I will multiply you of men and of cattle, and ye shall increase and grow. And I will restore you to your former habitation, and will do you more good than ever before: and ye shall know that I am the LORD. 12. I will bring you men to be my people Israel, and they shall possess thee: and thou shalt be their inheritance, and shalt no more be without an heir. 13. Thus saith the LORD GOD; Because it is said of you, Thou hast devoured men, and hast made thy people without heirs, 14. Thou shalt not therefore eat any more people, neither shalt thou make thy people without heirs, saith the LORD GOD. 15. And I will not cause thee to hear the reproach of the heathen any more; neither shalt thou bear the scorn of the heathen any more, neither shalt thou make thy people without. Heirs, saith the Lord GOD. 16. And the word of the LORD continued unto me: 17. Son of man, when the house of Israel dwelt in their land, and defiled it with their manner and doings, their manner was before me as the uncleanness of a woman in her sickness, 18. Then poured I out my wrath upon them for the blood which they had shed in the land, and polluted it with their idols. 19. And I scattered them among the heathen, and dispersed them abroad, and judged them according to their manner and doings. . 20. And they kept themselves as the heathen, whither they came, and profaned my holy name, saying of them, Is this the LORD'S people, which are gone out of their own land? 21. But I spared because of my holy name, which the house of Israel profaned among the heathen whither they came. 22. Therefore shalt thou say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the LORD GOD; I do it not for your sakes, ye of the house of Israel, but for my holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among the Gentiles unto whom ye are come. 23. For I will sanctify my great name, which is profaned among you, which ye have profaned among the heathen. And the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the LORD GOD, when I shew myself holy in your sight. 24. For I will take you out of the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and bring you again into your own land. 25. And I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean from all your filthiness; and from all your idols will I cleanse you. 26. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and will give you a heart of flesh. 27. And I will put my spirit within you, and will make you such men as will walk in my statutes, and keep my judgments, and do them. 28. And ye shall dwell in the land which I gave unto your fathers, and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. 29. I will rid you of all your filthiness, and will call for the grain, and will multiply it, and will not suffer you to be troubled: 30. I will multiply the fruit of the trees, and the increase of the field, and the heathen shall no more mock you with plague. 31. Then shall ye remember your evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall repent of your sin and your idolatry. 32. These things will I do, not for your sakes, saith the LORD, that ye may know them; but ye shall be ashamed and red with shame, ye of the house of Israel, because of your nature. 33. Thus saith the LORD GOD; In that day, when I shall cleanse you from all your sins, I will restore the cities, and the deserts shall be built again. 34. The desolate land shall be plowed again, because it was desolate; and all that pass through it shall see it, 35. Saying, This land was desolate, and now is as a garden of pleasure; and these cities were ruined, and desolate, and broken up, and now are established. 36. And let the remnant of the heathen round about you know that I am the LORD, which build up that which was broken, and plant that which was waste. I the LORD say it, and do it. 37. Thus saith the LORD GOD; I will ask of the house of Israel again, and I will shew myself in them; and I will multiply them as a flock. 38. As a holy flock, as a flock at Jerusalem in her strongholds; so shall the desolate cities be filled with flocks of men; and they shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 37 Redemption and unification of the Israelites, confirmed by example. 1. And the hand of the LORD came upon me, and brought me forth in the spirit of the LORD, and set me in a wide field, which was full of legs. 2. And he led me through all these places. And, behold, there was much in the field, and, lo, they were very withered. 3. And he said unto me, Son of man, thinkest thou that these legs shall live again? And I said, O Lord, thou knowest it. 4. And he said unto me, Prophesy of these legs, and speak unto them: Ye withered legs, hear the word of the LORD. 5. Thus saith the LORD of these bones, Behold, I will put a breath in you, and ye shall live. 6. I will give you veins, and flesh shall grow upon you, and cover you with skin; and I will give you breath, and ye shall live again: and ye shall know that I am the LORD. 7. And I prophesied as I was commanded: and, behold, there was a noise as I prophesied; and, behold, there was a stirring. And the bones came together again, every one to his own bones. 8. And I looked, and, behold, veins and flesh grew upon them, and he covered them with skin; but there was no breath in them yet. 9. And he said unto me, Prophesy unto the wind; prophesy, thou son of man, and say unto the wind, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Wind, come forth out of the four winds, and blow upon these that are slain, that they may live again. 10. And I prophesied as he commanded me. And the breath came into them, and they revived, and stood upon their feet. And there was a very great host of them. 11. And he said unto me, Son of man, these legs are all the house of Israel. Behold, now they say, Our legs are withered, and our hope is lost, and is done with us. 12. Therefore prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will open your graves, and will bring you out of them, my people, and will bring you into the land of Israel; 13. And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, and brought you out of them, my people. 14. And I will put my spirit within you, and ye shall live again; and I will set you in your land, and ye shall know that I am the LORD. I speak it, and do it, saith the LORD. 15. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 16. Son of man, take thee a wood, and write upon it, Judah, and the children of Israel, and their servants. And take thee another wood, and write thereon, The wood of Joseph, even the wood of Ephraim, and of all the house of Israel, and of their servants, 17. And put one thing together with another, that it may be a wood in thine hand. 18. Then thy people shall say unto thee, saying: Wilt thou not show us what thou meanest by this? 19. Say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will take the wood of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and their servants the tribes of Israel, and will put them with the wood of Judah, and make them a wood, and they shall be one in mine hand. 20. And thou shalt hold in thine hand the timbers which thou hast written thereon; that they may see. 21. And thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I will bring the children of Israel out of the heathen, whither they are gone, and will gather them every where, and will bring them again into their own land. 22. And I will make one people of them in the land of mount Israel, and they shall all have one king; and they shall no more be divided into two nations, neither shall they be divided into two kingdoms, 23. Neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, and with their abominations, and with all manner of sins. And I will bring them out of all the places where they have sinned, and will cleanse them, and they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 24. And David my servant shall be their king, and the shepherd of them all. And they shall walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them. 25. And they shall dwell in the land which I gave unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers dwelt. And they, and their children, and their children's children, shall dwell therein for ever: and my servant David shall be their ruler for ever. 26. And I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will preserve them, and multiply them; and my sanctuary shall be among them for ever. 27. And I will dwell among them, and will be their God, and they shall be my people, 28. That the heathen also may know that I am the LORD which sanctify Israel, when my sanctuary shall be among them for ever. (Ezekial) Chapter 38 From Gog and Magog. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Son of man, turn thou against Gog, which is in the land of Magog, and is the chief prince in Meshech and Thubal, and prophesy of him. 3. And say, Thus saith the LORD Gag; Behold, I will be with thee, Gag, which art the chief prince of the lords of Meshech and Tubal. 4. Behold, I will compass thee about, and put a bridle in thy mouth, and will bring thee forth with all thy host, horse and man, all clothed, and a great company of them, all bearing sabres, and shield, and sword. 5. Thou hast with thee Persians, and Moors, and Libyans, all bearing shields and helmets, 6. And Gomer, and all his host, and the house of Togarmah, which lieth on the north side, and all his host: thou hast a great people with thee. 7. Therefore prepare thyself, thou, and all thy companies that are with thee, and be thou captain of them. 8. After a long time thou shalt be visited. In the latter days thou shalt come into the land that was brought again by the sword, and gathered out of many nations, even into the mountains of Israel, which have been desolate for a long time, and are now brought out of many nations, and all dwell safely. 9. Thou shalt go up, and come with great boldness, and shalt be as a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy host, and the great people with thee. 10. Thus saith the LORD GOD; In that day shalt thou undertake these things, and shalt have them in thy mind wickedly. 11. And remember: I will invade the land without walls, and will come upon them that dwell quietly and securely, as they all sit without walls, and have neither bars nor gates, 12. That thou mayest spoil and plunder, and let thine hand go upon the spoiled that are inhabited again, and upon the people that are gathered out of the heathen, and have sent for food and goods, and dwell in the midst of the land. 13. And the Arabian kingdom, and Dedan, and the merchants of the sea, and all the mighty men that are therein, shall say unto thee, I think that thou art come to plunder, and hast gathered thy multitude to plunder, that thou mayest take away silver and gold, and gather cattle and goods, and make a great plunder. 14. Therefore prophesy, thou son of man, and say unto Gog: Thus saith the LORD Gog; Is it not so, that thou shalt know when my people Israel shall dwell safely? 15. And thou shalt come out of thy place, even from the north country, thou, and a great company with thee, all of them on horseback, a great multitude, and a mighty host. 16. And thou shalt come up upon my people Israel as a cloud to cover the land. This shall come to pass in the latter days. And I will bring thee into my land, that the heathen may know me, as I am sanctified in thee, O Gog, in their sight; 17. Thus saith the Lord GOD; Thou art he of whom I spake in time past by my servants the prophets of Israel, which prophesied in that day, that I would bring thee upon them. 18. And it shall come to pass in those days, when Gog shall come upon the land of Israel, saith the LORD GOD, that my wrath shall come up in my fury. 19. And I speak these things in my zeal, and in the fire of my wrath. For in that day there shall be great trembling in the land of Israel, 20. And the fishes of the sea shall tremble at my presence, and the fowls of the air, and the cattle of the field, and every living thing that moveth upon the face of the earth, and every man that is upon the earth; and the mountains shall be turned back, and the walls and all the ramparts shall fall to the ground. 21. And I will call for a sword upon him upon all my mountains, saith the LORD GOD; and every man's sword shall be against every man's sword. 22. And I will judge him with pestilence and blood; and I will rain down downpours of fire and brimstone upon him, and upon his army, and upon the great people that are with him. 23. I will therefore be glorious, and holy, and known before many nations, that they may know that I am the LORD. (Ezekial) Chapter 39 Of the defeat of Gog and Magog, and the victory of the people of God. 1. And thou, son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Behold, I am against thee, Gog, who art the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal. 2. Behold, I will turn thee about, and lure thee, and bring thee out of the ends of the midst, and make thee come upon the borders of Israel. 3. And I will strike thy bow out of thy left hand, and cast thine arrows out of thy right hand. 4. Upon the mountains of Israel shalt thou be laid, thou, and all thy host, and the people that are with thee. I will give thee to the fowls whence they fly, and to the beasts of the field to eat. 5. Thou shalt lie down in the field: for I the LORD have said it. 6. And I will cast fire upon Magog, and upon them that dwell safely in the isles; and they shall know that I am the LORD. 7. For I will make known my holy name among my people Israel, and will no more profane my holy name; but the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, the Holy One in Israel. 8. Behold, it is come and is done, saith the LORD GOD; this is the day of which I spake. 9. And the citizens of the cities of Israel shall go out, and make fire, and burn the weapons, and the shields, and the tartars, and the bows, and the arrows, and the fist staves, and the long spears, and shall keep fire therewith seven years, 10. That they take not wood out of the field, nor hew wood out of the wood: but of weapons they shall keep fire; and they shall rob, of whom they are robbed; and they shall plunder, of whom they are plundered, saith the LORD GOD. 11. And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will give unto Gog a place to be buried in Israel, even the valley of the sea eastward: and they that pass by shall be afraid of it, because Gog and his multitude are buried there: and the valley shall be called Gog's valley. 12. And the house of Israel shall bury them seven months, that the land may be cleansed. 13. Yea, all the people of the land shall bury in them, and shall glory in that I have that day shewed my glory, saith the LORD GOD. 14. And they shall set apart men to go about the land continually, and with them the grave-diggers to bury the remnant of the land, that it may be cleansed: after seven months shall they search. 15. And they that go about the land, and see a man's bone, shall set up a mark thereat, until the grave-diggers bury it also in the valley of Gog. 16. So shall the name of the city be called Hamonah. So they shall cleanse the land. 17. Now therefore, thou child of man, thus saith the LORD GOD; Say unto all fowls whence they fly, and unto all beasts of the field, Gather yourselves together, and come hither. Gather yourselves together on every side unto my sacrifice, which I will slay for you, a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel; and eat flesh, and drink blood. 18. The flesh of the mighty shall ye eat, and the blood of the princes of the earth shall ye drink, of rams, and of rams, and of goats, and of oxen, all of them fat and well fattened. 19. And ye shall eat the fat, that ye may be filled; and ye shall drink the blood, that ye may be drunken with the sacrifice which I kill for you. 20. Fill yourselves therefore over my table with horses, and with horsemen, and with mighty men, and with all manner of men of war, saith the LORD GOD. 21. And I will bring my glory among the Gentiles, and all the Gentiles shall see my judgment which I have executed, and my hand which I have laid upon them, 22. And so the house of Israel shall know that I the LORD am their God from that day forward, 23. And the heathen know how that the house of Israel was carried away for their iniquity, and that they had sinned against me. Therefore have I hid my face from them, and delivered them into the hand of their adversaries, that they should all fall by the sword. 24. I have done unto them according to their sin and transgression, and have hid my face from them. 25. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; Now will I turn the prison of Jacob, and have mercy upon all the house of Israel, and will be jealous for my holy name. 26. And they shall bear their reproach, and all their sin, because they have sinned against me, when they dwell safely in their own land, that no man may affright them, 27. And I brought them again out of the nations, and gathered them out of the countries of their enemies, and was sanctified in them in the sight of many nations. 28. So they shall know that I the LORD am their God, which have led them away among the heathen, and have gathered them again into their own land, and have not left one of them there. 29. And I will hide my face from them no more: for I have poured out my spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 40 Of the new temple's outhouse. 1. In the five and twentieth year of our imprisonment, in the beginning of the year, on the tenth day of the month, which is the fourteenth year after the city was smitten, the same day the hand of the LORD came upon me, and brought me thither. 2. By divine visions, namely, into the land of Israel; and I stood upon a very high mountain, and there was there like a city built from the south. 3. And when he had brought me thither, behold, there was a man in the likeness of brass, having a cord of linen, and a measuring rod in his hand, standing under the gate. 4. And he said unto me, Son of man, behold, and hearken diligently, and mark the things which I shall shew thee. For therefore art thou brought, that I might shew thee these things, that thou mightest shew all these things, which thou seest here, unto the house of Israel. 5. And, behold, there went out a wall round about the house. And the man had a measuring rod in his hand, which was six cubits long; every cubit was a handbreadth longer than a cubit. He measured the width of the building by one rod, and the height by one rod. 6. And he came to the gate that was toward the east, and went up by his steps, and measured the thresholds of the gate, every threshold a rod broad. 7. And the chambers that were by the gate on either side measured he a rod by the length, and a rod by the breadth: and the space between the chambers was five cubits. And he measured also the thresholds of the gate of the hall from within one cubit. 8. And he measured the hall at the gate from within a rod. 9. And the hall of the gate measured eight cubits, and the bays thereof two cubits, and the hall from within the gate. 10. And the chambers were on every side three at the gate eastward, every one as wide as the other: and on both sides were bays of the same size. 11. And afterward he measured the breadth of the door of the gate, even ten cubits; and the length of the gate thirteen cubits. 12. And in the front of the chambers there was room on either side, every cubit: but the chambers were six cubits on either side. 13. And he measured the gate from the roof of the chamber unto the roof of the gate, twenty and five cubits broad; and the door was over against the door. 14. He made also oriels threescore cubits, and before every oriel a court by the gate round about. 15. And unto the porch of the inner gate, where they go in, were fifty cubits. 16. And there were narrow windows in the chambers, and in the oriels round about, at the gate round about. And there were windows in the inner parts of the halls round about, and palm trees in the oriels round about. 17. And he brought me to the outer court: and, behold, there were chambers and a pavement made round about in the court, and thirty chambers in the pavement. 18. And the higher pavement was at the gates, as long as the gates were, at the lower pavement. 19. And he measured the breadth of the lower gate before the inner court, an hundred cubits without, both toward the east and toward the north. 20. And he measured the gate that was toward the north, by the outer court, by the length thereof, and by the breadth thereof. 21. Which had also on every side three chambers, and had also his bays and halls, as great as at the former gate, fifty cubits the length, and twenty and five cubits the breadth. 22. And he had also his windows, and his halls, and his palm tree, as the gate eastward: and he had seven steps to go up, and his hall before it. 23. And the gate of the inner court was over against the gate that was northward and eastward, and measured an hundred cubits from gate to gate. 24. Afterward he brought me toward the south, and, behold, there was also a gate toward the south: and he measured the oriels thereof, and the halls thereof, like unto the rest. 25. They also had windows and halls round about, like unto those windows, fifty cubits long, and twenty and five cubits broad. 26. And there were also seven steps up, and a hall before it, and palm trees in the bays thereof on every side. 27. And he measured also the gate of the inner court toward the south, an hundred cubits from the one south gate unto the other. 28. And he brought me on through the south gate into the inner court: and he measured the same gate toward the south, as great as the rest, 29. With his chambers, and oriels, and halls, and windows thereof, as great as those round about, fifty cubits long, and twenty and five cubits broad. 30. And there went round about a hall twenty and five cubits long, and five cubits broad. 31. This stood in the front of the outer court, and had also palm trees in the oriels; but there were eight steps to go up. 32. And afterward he brought me to the inner gate toward the east, and measured the same as the other gates, 33. with his chambers, and his oriels, and his halls, and his windows, and his halls round about, as great as the others, fifty cubits long, and twenty and five cubits broad. 34. And had also a hall toward the outer court, and palm trees in the oriels on either side, and eight steps up. 35. And afterward he brought me to the gate toward the north, which he measured to be as great as the rest, 36. with his chambers, oriels, and halls, and their windows and halls round about, fifty cubits long, and twenty and five cubits broad. 37. And had also a hall toward the outer court, and palm trees in the oriels on either side, and eight steps up. 38. And down by the oriels of every gate was a chamber with a door, wherein they washed the burnt offering. 39. And in the hall that was before the gate were two tables on every side, whereon the burnt offerings, and the sin offerings, and the trespass offerings, were to be offered. 40. And on the other side, on the way up to the gate, toward the north, were two tables; and on the other side, under the porch of the gate, were two tables. 41. So there were four tables on every side before the gate: that is, eight tables in the midst, whereon they slew. 42. And the four tables made for the burnt offering were of hewn stones, each a cubit and a half long and broad, and a cubit and a half high: and there were laid thereon all manner of vessels for the slaying of burnt offerings and sacrifices. 43. And there went round about bars bent inward, upward of a cross hand. And on the tables they were to lay the flesh of the sacrifice. 44. And without the inner gate were chambers for the singers in the inner court: one on the side, beside the gate at midnight, which looked toward the south; the other on the side toward the east, which looked toward the midnight. 45. And he said unto me, The chamber toward the south belongeth unto the priests that minister in the house; 46. But the chamber toward the north belongeth unto the priests that minister upon the altar. These are the children of Zadok, which alone among the children of Levi shall come before the LORD to minister unto him. 47. And he measured the place of the house, an hundred cubits long, and an hundred cubits broad, squarely: and the altar was before the temple. 48. And he brought me in unto the hall of the temple, and measured the hall five cubits on every side, and the gate three cubits on every side. 49. And the hall was twenty cubits long, and eleven cubits broad, and had steps to go up; and pillars were at the bottom of the bays, one on each side. (Ezekial) Chapter 41 Description of the inner temple. 1. And he brought me into the temple, and measured the bays of the walls, which were six cubits on every side, according to the breadth of the house. 2. And the door was ten cubits broad, and the walls on either side of the door were every five cubits broad. And he measured the room of the temple; which was forty cubits in length, and twenty cubits in breadth. 3. And he went in within, and measured the door, two cubits: and the door was six cubits, and the breadth of the door seven cubits. 4. And he measured twenty cubits in length, and twenty cubits in breadth, by the temple. And he said unto me, This is the most holy place. 5. And he measured the wall of the house, six cubits high; and there were courses round about it, divided into chambers, four cubits broad on every side. 6. And there were thirty and three of them on every side, one by one: and there were pillars by the walls of the house round about, which bare them. 7. And above these were more passages round about, and above were the passages wider, that one went out of the lower into the middle, and out of the middle into the upper. 8. And each stood six cubits above the other. 9. And the breadth of the upper courses was five cubits, and the pillars bare the courses of the house. 10. And there was from the wall of the house to the wall of the house twenty cubits. 11. And there were two doors at the snail's mouth, one toward the north, and the other toward the south: and the snail's mouth was five cubits wide. 12. And the wall toward the west was seventy and five cubits broad, and ninety cubits long. 13. And he measured the length of the house, which was an hundred cubits, and the wall thereof, and all that was therein. 14. And the breadth of the front of the house toward the east, with the things that hung thereon, was also an hundred cubits. 15. And he measured the length of the building, and all that was therein, from one corner to the other, an hundred cubits on every side, with the inner temple, and the halls of the court. 16. with the doors, and the windows, and the corners, and the three courses, and the table-work round about. 17. He measured also how high from the earth to the windows, and how broad the windows should be; and measured from the gate unto the holy of holies, outward and in turning round about. 18. And all about the house, from beneath to the top of the door, and upon the walls, were cherubims and palm trees made under the cherubims. 19. And every cherub had two heads, on the one side like the head of a man, and on the other like the head of a lion. 20. And from the floor unto the top of the door were carved the cherubims and the palm trees, and the wall of the temple. 21. And the door of the temple was foursquare, and all things were well joined together. 22. And the altar of wood was three cubits high, and two cubits long and broad; and the corners thereof, and all the sides thereof, were of wood. And he said unto me, This is the table that shall stand before the LORD. 23. And the door, both of the temple, and of the holy of holies, 24. had two leaves, which one did open and close. 25. And there were also cherubims and palm trees upon it, as upon the walls. And before it were strong bars against the hall. 26. And there were narrow windows, and much palm-work about the hall, and about the walls. (Ezekial) Chapter 42 Of the temple outbuildings. 1. And he brought me out unto the outer court northward, under the chambers that were over against the building that hung upon the temple, and over against the temple northward, 2. Which place was an hundred cubits long from the gate toward the north, and fifty cubits broad. 3. Twenty cubits were toward the inner court, and toward the pavement in the outer court, and thirty cubits from one corner to another. 4. And within the chambers was a place ten cubits broad before the doors of the chambers: all this was toward the north. 5. And above these chambers were other chambers narrower: for the space of the lower and middle chambers was not large. 6. For it was three chambers high, and yet had no pillars, as the courts had pillars, but were badly set one upon another. 7. And the outer court was compassed about with a wall, where the chambers were: the wall was fifty cubits long. 8. And the chambers were one after another, even fifty cubits, in the outer court: but the space before the temple was an hundred cubits; 9. And down before the chambers was a place toward the east, as one went out of the outer court: 10. And by the wall of the east were chambers also. 11. And there was also a place before it, as before those chambers, toward the north: and all was the same in length, and in breadth, and in all that was therein, as it was above in them. 12. And at noon there were also the same chambers with their doors: and before the place was the door at noon, to which one cometh from the wall that lieth on the east. 13. And he said unto me, The chambers toward the north, and the chambers toward the south, which are toward the temple, are of the sanctuary, wherein the priests eat, when they offer the most holy sacrifice unto the LORD. And they shall put therein the most holy sacrifices, the meat offering, and the sin offering, and the trespass offering: for it is a holy place. 14. And when the priests go in, they shall not go out again of the sanctuary into the outer court, but shall first lay aside their garments wherein they ministered in the chambers thereof: for they are holy: and they shall put on their other garments, and then go forth among the people. 15. And when he had measured the house within, he brought me forth unto the gate toward the east, and measured it round about. 16. In the morning he measured five hundred rods. 17. And about midnight he also measured five hundred rods, 18. likewise about noon also five hundred rods. 19. And when he was come toward even, he measured also five hundred rods. 20. So the wall which he measured was fourscore and five hundred rods on every side round about, that the holy might be divided from the unholy. (Ezekial) Chapter 43 Of the new temple's glory, worship, and dedication. 1. And he brought me again unto the gate toward the east. 2. And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the east, and roared as a great flood; and there was great light upon the earth from his glory. 3. And it was like the vision which I saw by the river Chebar, when I came to destroy the city. Then fell I down on my face. 4. And the glory of the LORD came into the house by the way of the gate toward the east. 5. And a wind took me up, and brought me into the inner court: and, behold, the glory of the LORD filled the house. 6. And I heard one speaking with me out of the house. And a man stood by me, 7. And he said unto me, Son of man, this is the place of my throne, and the place of the soles of my feet, wherein I will dwell for ever among the children of Israel. And the house of Israel shall no more pollute my holy name, neither they, nor their kings, by their fornication, nor by the carcases of their kings in their high places, 8. Who have set their threshold against my threshold, and their posts against my posts, that there was but a wall between me and them: and they have polluted my holy name with their abominations which they have done: therefore have I consumed them also in mine anger. 9. But now they shall put away their fornication, and the carcases of their kings, far from me: and I will dwell among them for ever. 10. And thou, son of man, shew the house of Israel the temple, that they may be ashamed of their iniquity; and let them take a clean pattern of it. 11. And if they be ashamed of all their doings, shew them the manner and pattern of the house, and the going out thereof, and the coming in thereof, and all the manner thereof, and all the manners thereof, and all the statutes thereof; and prescribe it unto them, that they may keep all the manner thereof, and all the manners thereof, and do them. 12. And this shall be the law of the house: In the height of the mountain, as far as it hath compassed it, shall it be the most holy: this is the law of the house. 13. Now this is the measure of the altar by the cubit, which is a handbreadth longer than a cubit: the foot thereof is a cubit high, and a cubit broad; and the altar reacheth up unto the brim thereof, which is a span broad round about: and this is the height thereof. 14. And from the foot of the earth unto the lower part thereof shall be two cubits high and an cubit broad: but from the small part thereof unto the great part thereof shall be four cubits high and an cubit broad. 15. And the harel four cubits high, and from the ariel above four horns. 16. And the length of the ariel was twelve cubits, and the breadth thereof twelve cubits. 17. And the top of it was fourteen cubits long, and fourteen cubits broad on every side; and the border was about half a cubit broad; and the foot thereof was a cubit high, and the steps thereof were toward the east. 18. And he said unto me, Son of man, thus saith the LORD, These shall be the manner of the altar in the day that it is made, to lay burnt offerings thereon, and to sprinkle blood thereon. 19. And unto the priests of Levi, of the seed of Zadok, which come before me to minister unto me, saith the LORD GOD, thou shalt give a young bullock for a sin offering. 20. And thou shalt take of the blood thereof, and sprinkle it upon the four horns thereof, and upon the four corners of the topmost part thereof, and upon the borders thereof; and thou shalt make an atonement for him therewith. 21. And thou shalt take the bullock of the sin offering, and burn it in the place of the house appointed for it, even in the sanctuary. 22. And on the morrow thou shalt offer a kid of the goats, without change, for a sin offering, and shalt sanctify the altar therewith, as it is sanctified with the bullock. 23. And when thou hast made an end of atoning, thou shalt offer a young bullock without change, and a ram of the flock without change. 24. And thou shalt offer them both before the LORD; and the priests shall sprinkle salt thereon, and offer them for a burnt offering unto the LORD. 25. So thou shalt offer a goat for a sin offering every day seven days in succession: and they shall offer a young bullock, and a ram of the flock, both without change. 26. And they shall make an atonement for the altar seven days, and cleanse it, and fill his hands. 27. And after those days shall the priests offer your burnt offerings and your peace offerings upon the altar for ever on the eighth day, and after that, and I will be gracious unto you, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 44 Of the priests of the new temple and their order. 1. And he brought me again unto the gate of the outer sanctuary eastward: and it was shut. 2. And the LORD said unto me, This gate shall be shut, and shall not be opened; neither shall any man pass through it, save the LORD God of Israel, which shall pass through it; and it shall be shut. 3. But the prince excepted: for the prince shall sit under it to eat bread before the LORD: he shall enter in through the hall, and go out through the same. 4. And afterward he brought me unto the gate of the house toward the north: and I looked, and, behold, the house of the LORD was full of the glory of the LORD: and I fell upon my face. 5. And the LORD said unto me, Son of man, take heed, and see, and hearken diligently unto all that I shall tell thee of all the statutes and judgments of the house of the LORD; and take heed how thou goest in, and unto all the exits of the sanctuary. 6. And say unto the disobedient house of Israel, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Ye do exceedingly, O house of Israel, with all your abominations; 7. For ye bring strangers, uncircumcised in heart and flesh, into my sanctuary, to profane my house, when ye offer my bread, and my fat, and my blood, and to break my covenant with all your abominations. 8. And do not keep the customs of my sanctuary, but make for yourselves new customs in my sanctuary. 9. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; There shall no stranger of uncircumcised heart and uncircumcised flesh come into my sanctuary out of all the strangers that are among the children of Israel, 10. Neither the Levites, which have departed from me, and gone astray from me with Israel after their idols. Therefore shall they bear their sin. 11. And they shall minister in my sanctuary at the offices, and at the doors of the house, and in the house: and they shall kill only the burnt offering, and other sacrifices, which the people bring, and shall stand before the priests to minister unto them. 12. Because they have served them before their idols, and have given the house of Israel occasion to sin, therefore have I stretched out mine hand upon them, saith the LORD GOD, that they should bear their sin. 13. And they shall not come nigh unto me to perform the priest's office, neither shall they come nigh unto any of my sanctuary, unto the holy of holies; but they shall bear their shame, and their abominations which they have committed. 14. Therefore have I made them keepers of all the service of the house, and of all that shall be done therein. 15. But the priests of the Levites, the sons of Zadok, which have kept the statutes of my sanctuary, when the children of Israel fell away from me, they shall come before me, and minister unto me, and stand before me to offer me the fat and the blood, saith the LORD GOD. 16. And they shall enter into my sanctuary, and stand before my table, to serve me, and to keep my statutes. 17. And when they go in through the gates of the inner court, they shall put on linen garments, and have nothing on, because they minister in the gates of the inner court. 18. And they shall have linen upon their heads, and linen for their loins; and they shall not gird themselves with sweat. 19. And it shall come to pass, when they go out into the outer court unto the people, that they shall put off the garments wherein they ministered, and lay them in the chambers of the sanctuary, and put on other garments, and not sanctify the people in their own garments. 20. They shall not shave their heads, neither shall they let their hair grow free, but they shall shave their hair round about. 21. Neither shall any priest drink wine, when they go into the inner court. 22. And they shall not take a widow or a reprobate in marriage, but virgins of the seed of the house of Israel, or a widow left of a priest. 23. And they shall teach my people, that they may know how to keep the difference between the holy and the unholy, and between the clean and the unclean. 24. And where a matter cometh before them, they shall stand and judge, and speak after my statutes, and keep my commandments and my statutes, and keep all my feasts, and hallow my sabbaths. 25. And they shall not go and defile themselves unto any dead person, save unto father, or mother, or son, or daughter, or brother, or sister, which hath not had a husband: upon them shall they defile themselves. 26. And after his cleansing he shall be numbered seven days. 27. And when he goeth again into the sanctuary into the inner court, to minister in the sanctuary, he shall offer his sin offering, saith the LORD GOD. 28. But the inheritance which they shall have, that will I myself be. Therefore shall ye not give them a land of their own in Israel: for I am their inheritance. 29. They shall have their sustenance of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering: and all the banished things of Israel shall be theirs. 30. And all the firstfruits and the firstborn of all the heave offerings shall be to the priests. Ye shall also give unto the priests the firstfruits of all that is eaten, that the blessing may remain in thine house. 31. But whatsoever is a carcase, or torn, whether of fowls or beasts, the priests shall not eat it. (Ezekial) Chapter 45 Department of the country. Law of princes. Law of the victims 1. Now therefore, when ye shall divide the land by lot, ye shall set apart a heave offering out of the land, which shall be holy unto the LORD, twenty and five thousand rods long, and ten thousand broad. The place shall be holy as far as it goes. 2. And from it shall come unto the sanctuary five hundred rods a quarter, and a space round about fifty cubits. 3. And in the same place, which is twenty and five thousand rods long, and ten thousand broad, shall be the sanctuary, and the holy of holies. 4. And the rest of the holy land shall be for the priests that minister in the sanctuary, and that come before the LORD to minister unto him, that they may have room for houses; and it shall be holy also. 5. And the Levites also that minister before the house shall have twenty and five thousand rods long, and ten thousand broad, for their part, for twenty chambers. 6. And unto the city ye shall leave a place for all the house of Israel, five thousand rods broad, and twenty and five thousand long, beside the separate place of the sanctuary. 7. And ye shall give the prince also a place on either side between the priests' place, and between the place of the city, east and west: and the east and the west shall be the same length. 8. This shall be his own portion in Israel, that my princes shall no more take theirs from my people, but shall leave the land to the house of Israel for their tribes. 9. For thus saith the Lord GOD; Ye have done long enough, ye princes of Israel; depart from iniquity and violence, and do that which is right and good; and depart from my people your casting out, saith the Lord GOD. 10. Ye shall have right weight, and right bushels, and right measure. 11. The ephah and the bath shall be the same, that the bath may be the tenth part of the homer, and the ephah also the tenth part of the homer: for according to the homer they shall both be measured. 12. But a shekel shall have twenty gerahs: and a mina shall make twenty shekels, twenty and five shekels, and fifteen shekels. 13. Now this shall be the heave offering which ye shall lift up, even the sixth part of an ephah of a homer of wheat, and the sixth part of an ephah of a homer of barley. 14. And of the oil ye shall give one bath, even the tenth of the Kor, and the tenth of the Homer: for ten bath make one Homer. 15. And one lamb of every two hundred sheep of the flock of the pasture of Israel for a meat offering, and for a burnt offering, and for a peace offering, to make an atonement for them, saith the LORD GOD. 16. All the people of the land shall bring such heave offerings unto the prince in Israel. 17. And the prince shall offer his burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering, upon the feasts, and upon the new moons, and upon the sabbaths, and upon all the high feasts of the house of Israel; and he shall offer sin offerings, and meat offerings, and burnt offerings, and peace offerings, to make an atonement for the house of Israel. 18. Thus saith the LORD GOD; In the first day of the first month thou shalt take a young bullock without change, and shalt cleanse the sanctuary. 19. And the priest shall take of the blood of the sin offering, and sprinkle it upon the posts of the house, and upon the four corners of the ledge of the altar, and upon the posts of the gate of the inner court. 20. So shalt thou do also on the seventh day of the month, when any man hath erred, or been deceived, to make an atonement for the house. 21. In the fourteenth day of the first month ye shall keep the passover, and celebrate it seven days, and eat unleavened bread. 22. And on the same day the prince shall offer a bullock for a sin offering for himself, and for all the people of the land. 23. And during the seven days of the feast he shall offer a burnt offering daily unto the LORD, seven bullocks and seven rams without issue, and one kid of the goats for a sin offering. 24. And for a meat offering he shall offer an ephah to a bullock, and an ephah to a ram, and an hin of oil to an ephah. 25. And on the fifteenth day of the seventh month he shall celebrate seven days in succession, as he did those seven days, and shall keep the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and the meat offering, and the oil. (Ezekial) Chapter 46 From the place and time of the victims 1. Thus saith the LORD GOD; The gate of the inner court toward the east shall be shut the six days of the week; but on the sabbath day and on the new moon it shall be opened. 2. And the prince shall go out by heart under the porch of the gate, and stand without by the posts of the gate. And the priests shall offer his burnt offering and his peace offerings: and he shall worship in the threshold of the gate, and go out afterward. And the gate shall be open until the even. 3. Likewise the people of the land shall worship in the door of the same gate before the LORD in the sabbaths and in the new moons. 4. And the burnt offering, which the prince shall offer before the LORD on the sabbath day, shall be six lambs without issue, and one ram without issue. 5. And an ephah of a meat offering for a ram for a meat offering. And unto the lambs, as much as his hand giveth, for a meat offering, and an hin of oil for an ephah. 6. And on the new moon he shall offer one young bullock without change, and six lambs, and one ram without change, 7. And an ephah to the bullock, and an ephah to the ram for a meat offering. And to the lambs as many as he taketh; and an hin of oil to an ephah. 8. And when the prince goeth in, he shall go in by the way of the hall of the gate, and shall come out by the same way. 9. But the people of the land, when they come before the LORD in the high feasts, and go in to worship at the north gate, they shall go out by the south gate: and they that go in by the south gate shall go out by the north gate, and shall not go out again at the gate by which they went in, but shall go out straightway before them. 10. And the prince shall go in and out with them both. 11. And on the feasts and on the high feasts they shall offer for a meat offering an ephah for every bullock, and an ephah for every ram, and for the lambs as much as his hand giveth, and an hin of oil for every ephah. 12. And if the prince will offer a freewill burnt offering or a peace offering unto the LORD, then the gate shall be opened unto him toward the east, that he may offer his burnt offering and his peace offering, as he is wont to offer on the sabbath day: and when he is come out, the gate shall be shut upon him. 13. And he shall offer a burnt offering daily unto the LORD, a lamb of the first year without change: he shall offer the same every morning. 14. And every morning he shall put thereon the sixth part of an ephah for a meat offering, and the third part of an hin of oil to be drunk upon the fine flour, for a meat offering unto the LORD. This shall be a perpetual statute of the daily sacrifice. 15. And they shall offer the lamb, and the meat offering, and the oil, every morning for a continual burnt offering. 16. Thus saith the LORD GOD; When the prince of his sons giveth a gift of his inheritance unto one, the same shall remain unto his sons, and they shall inherit it. 17. And if he give any of his servants of his inheritance, they shall possess it until the year of manumission, and then it shall return unto the prince: for his part shall be inherited by his sons only. 18. Neither shall the prince take from the people any of their inheritance, neither shall he put them out of their own goods: but his own goods shall be inherited by his children, lest any of my people be scattered abroad from their possession. 19. And he brought me under the entrance of the gate toward the north, unto the chambers of the sanctuary which belonged to the priests: and, behold, there was a room there in the corner toward the west. 20. And he said unto me, This is the place where the priests shall boil the trespass offering, and the sin offering, and the meat offering, that they may not carry it out into the utter court to sanctify the people. 21. And afterward he brought me forth into the outer court, and commanded me to go into the four corners of the court. 22. And, behold, every one of the four corners had another place to burn incense, forty cubits long, and thirty cubits broad, all four of them of one measure. 23. And there was a wall round about every one of the four: there were flocks made round about upon the walls. 24. And he said unto me, This is the kitchen, wherein the servants of the house shall cook that which the people offer. (Ezekial) Chapter 47 Fertility and frontier of the Holy Land. 1. And he brought me again unto the door of the temple. And, behold, there flowed out water from under the threshold of the temple toward the east: for the door of the temple was also toward the east. And the water ran on the right side of the temple, beside the altar toward the south. 2. And he brought me by heart unto the gate toward the north, from the outer gate toward the east: and, behold, the waters gushed out of the right side. 3. And the man went out toward the east, having the measuring line in his hand; and he measured a thousand cubits, and led me through the water until it came to my ankles. 4. And he measured again a thousand cubits, and brought me through the water, until it came to my knees. And he measured again a thousand cubits, and made me pass through it, until it came to my loins. 5. Then measured he yet a thousand cubits, and it was so deep, that I could not make a foundation: for the water was too high to swim over, and I could not make a foundation. 6. And he said unto me, Son of man, thou hast seen this. And he brought me again to the bank of the brook. 7. And, behold, there stood very many trees on the bank on either side. 8. And he said unto me, This water that floweth out toward the east shall flow through the field of the puddle into the sea, and from sea to sea: and when it is come into the sea, then these waters shall be healed. 9. Yea, every living thing that liveth and travaileth therein, whither these rivers come, shall live, and have very much fish: and every thing shall be well, and live, whither this river cometh. 10. And the fishermen shall stand by it; from Engeddi even to En-Eglaim shall the fishes be stretched out: for there shall be there a great multitude of fishes, as in the great sea. 11. But the pools and the pools beside shall not be made whole, but shall remain salted. 12. And by the same river, on the banks thereof on both sides, shall grow all manner of fruitful trees; and their leaf shall not wither, neither shall their fruit rot: and they shall bring forth new fruit every month; for their waters flow out of the sanctuary. Their fruit shall be for food, and their leaves for medicine. 13. Thus saith the LORD GOD; This is the border, according to which ye shall divide the land among the twelve tribes of Israel: for two parts belong unto the tribe of Joseph. 14. And ye shall divide it equally unto one and to another: for I have lifted up mine hand to give the land unto your fathers, and to you for an inheritance. 15. Now this is the border of the land northward from the great sea, from Hethlon even unto Zedad: 16. Hemath, and Berotha, and Sibraim, which border with Damascus and Hemath; and Hazar-tikhon, which borders with Haveran. 17. This shall be the border from the sea even unto Hazar-enon: and Damascus and Hemath shall be the end thereof northward. 18. And ye shall measure the east border between Haveran and Damascus, and between Gilead and the land of Israel, from Jordan even unto the sea eastward. This shall be the border eastward. 19. And the south border shall be from Tamar unto the waters of Hader in Kadesh, and unto the waters of the great sea. This shall be the south border. 20. And the west border shall be from the great sea even unto Hemath. This is the border of the evening. 21. So shall ye divide the land among the tribes of Israel. 22. And when ye cast lots to divide the land among you, then ye shall keep the strangers that sojourn among you, and that beget children among you, even as the inhabitants among the children of Israel; 23. And they shall have their portion in the land, every one of them of the tribe wherein he dwelleth, saith the LORD GOD. (Ezekial) Chapter 48 Distribution of the Holy Land. Description of the holy city. 1. These are the names of the tribes. From northward, from Hethlon toward Hemath, and Hazar-enon, and from Damascus toward Hemath: this shall Dan have for his part from the east even unto the west. 2. Beside Dan shall Asser have his part from the east even unto the west. 3. Beside Asher shall Naphtali have his part from the east even unto the west. 4. Beside Naphtali shall Manasseh have his part from the east even unto the west. 5. Beside Manasseh shall Ephraim have his part from the east even unto the west. 6. And Reuben shall have his part with Ephraim from the east even unto the west. 7. And Judah shall have his part with Reuben from the east even unto the west. 8. And beside Judah ye shall set apart a portion from the east even unto the west, the breadth and the length of twenty and five thousand rods, a portion of the portions that are from the east even unto the west: therein shall the sanctuary be. 9. And from it ye shall set apart unto the LORD a portion twenty and five thousand rods long, and ten thousand rods broad. 10. And the same holy part shall be the priest's, even twenty and five thousand rods on the north side, and on the south side, and ten thousand broad on the east side, and on the west side. And the sanctuary of the LORD shall be in the midst thereof. 11. This shall be sanctified unto the priests, even to the sons of Zadok, which have kept my statutes, and have not fallen away with the children of Israel, as the Levites have fallen away. 12. And this separate part of the land shall be their own, wherein is the holy of holies, beside the border of the Levites. 13. And the Levites shall have beside the priest's border also twenty and five thousand rods in length, and ten thousand in breadth: for all the length shall be twenty and five thousand rods, and the breadth ten thousand rods. 14. And they shall not sell any of it, nor change it, lest the firstfruits of the land be taken away: for it is hallowed unto the LORD. 15. But the residue of the five thousand rods in breadth against the twenty and five thousand rods in length, that shall be unholy unto the city to dwell therein, and to the suburbs: and the city shall be in the midst thereof. 16. And this shall be their measure, four thousand and five hundred rods on the north side, and on the south side; and on the east side, and on the west side, four thousand and five hundred. 17. And the suburbs shall have two hundred and fifty measures on the north side, and on the south side; and on the east side, and on the west side, two hundred and fifty measures. 18. And the rest of the length thereof, beside that which is set apart, and that which is sanctified, even ten thousand rods toward the east, and ten thousand rods toward the west, shall be for the maintenance of them that work in the city. 19. And the labourers shall work out of all the tribes of Israel of the city, 20. That the whole separation of the twenty and five thousand rods into the four quarters might be a holy separation for the possession of the city. 21. And that which remaineth on either side, beside the separate holy part, and beside the city part, even twenty and five thousand rods toward the east, and toward the west, shall be all the prince's. And the separate holy part, and the house of the sanctuary, shall be in the midst thereof. 22. And that which is between them, between the Levites' portion, and between the city's portion, and between the border of Judah and the border of Benjamin, shall be the prince's. 23. Afterward shall the other tribes be: Benjamin shall have his part from the east even unto the west. 24. And beside the border of Benjamin shall Simeon have his part from the east even unto the west. 25. Beside the border of Shimeon shall Issachar have his part from the east even unto the west. 26. Beside the border of Issachar shall Zebulun have his part from the east even unto the west. 27. Beside the border of Zebulun shall Gad have his part from the east even unto the west. 28. And beside Gad is the border toward the south, from Tamar unto the waters of Hader unto Kadesh, and toward the waters of the great sea. 29. So shall the land be divided for an inheritance among the tribes of Israel; and this shall be their inheritance, saith the LORD GOD. 30. And so shall the city be: four thousand and five hundred rods toward the north. 31. And the gates of the city shall be called by the names of the tribes of Israel, three gates toward the north: the first gate Reuben, the second Judah, the third Levi. 32. And there were four thousand and five hundred rods toward the east, and three gates: the first gate Joseph, the second Benjamin, the third Dan. 33. And at noon there were four thousand and five hundred rods, and three gates: the first gate, Simeon; the second, Issachar; the third, Zebulun. 34. And at even four thousand and five hundred rods, and three gates: one gate Gad, the other Assyria, the third Naphtali. 35. So it shall have about and about eighteen thousand rods. And then shall the city be called: Here is the LORD! Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Daniel ^ Chapter 1 Daniels and his friends upbringing and representation 1. In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came before Jerusalem, and besieged her. 2. And the LORD delivered Jehoiakim king of Judah unto him, and certain vessels of the house of God, which he brought into the land of Shinar, into the house of his God, and put the vessels into the treasury of his God. 3. And the king spake unto Aspenas his chief chamberlain, that he should choose of the children of Israel of the royal tribe and of the sons of lords 4. boys, not infirm, but handsome, sensible, wise, prudent, and understanding, able to serve in the king's court, and to learn the Chaldean writing and language. 5. To such the king provided what should be given them daily of his meat, and of the wine which he himself drank; that, being thus brought up three years, they should afterward minister before the king. 6. Among whom were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, of the children of Judah. 7. And the chief eunuch gave them names, and called Daniel Belteshazzar, and Hananiah Shadrach, and Mishael Meshach, and Azariah Abednego. 8. But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king's meat, nor with the wine which he himself drank: and he besought the chief eunuch that he should not defile himself. 9. And God gave Daniel that the chief steward might be favorable and gracious unto him. 10. And he said unto him, I am afraid of my lord the king, which hath given you your meat and your drink: if he should see your faces more wretched than the faces of the rest of the children of your age, ye would deprive me of my life by the king. 11. And Daniel spake unto Melzar, to whom Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, the chief eunuch, commanded: 12. Try thy servants ten days, and give us vegetables to eat, and water to drink. 13. And then let our form be seen before thee, and the children that eat of the king's meat: and after that thou shalt see, after that thou shalt create with thy servants. 14. And he obeyed them therein, and tried them ten days. 15. And after ten days they were more beautiful and fuller in body than all the boys that did eat the king's meat. 16. And Melzar put away their meat and their drink, and gave them vegetables. 17. But the God of these four gave them skill and understanding in all writing and wisdom: but to Daniel he gave understanding in all visions and dreams. 18. And when the time was expired, which the king had appointed that they should be brought in, the chief eunuch brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19. And the king spake unto them, and there was found none like Daniel, and Hananiah, and Mishael, and Azariah, among them all. And they became the king's servants. 20. And the king found them ten times wiser and more understanding in all things that he asked them than all the astrologers and wise men that were in all his kingdom. 21. And Daniel lived until the first year of Cyrus the king. (Daniel) Chapter 2 Daniel lays out the dream image of Nebuchadnezzar. 1. In the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar had a dream, and was troubled, and awoke. 2. And he commanded all the astrologers, and the wise men, and the magicians, and the Chaldeans, to come together, and tell the king his dream. And they came and stood before the king. 3. And the king said unto them: I have had a dream, and it troubled me: and I desired to know what dream it was. 4. And the Chaldeans said unto the king in the Chaldean tongue, O king, may God grant thee long life. Tell thy servants the dream, and we will interpret it. 5. And the king answered and said unto the Chaldeans, It hath slipped my mind. If ye will not tell me the dream, and interpret it, ye shall perish utterly, and your houses shall be shamefully destroyed. 6. But if ye shall tell me the dream, and interpret it, ye shall have gifts, and offerings, and great honour from me. Therefore tell me the dream and its interpretation. 7. And they answered again, and said: Let the king saw his servants the dream, and we will interpret it. 8. And the king answered and said, Verily I perceive that ye seek respite, because ye see that it hath slipped from me. 9. But if ye will not tell me the dream, then the judgment shall be upon you, as ye have purposed to speak lies and poems before me, until the time be past. Therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye have the interpretation. 10. And the Chaldeans answered before the king, and said unto him, There is not a man upon earth that can say what the king requireth. Neither is there any king, no matter how great or powerful he may be, who can ask this of any astrologer or wise man or Chaldean. 11. For that which the king requireth is too high, neither is there any that can speak it before the king, save the gods, which dwell not with men. 12. And the king was very wroth, and commanded that all the wise men of Babylon should be put to death. 13. And the sentence came to pass, that the wise men should be put to death. And Daniel and his companions were sought to be put to death. 14. And Daniel heard the sentence and the commandment of the king's chief judge, which went out to slay the wise men of Babylon. 15. And he began to say unto Arioch the king's reeve, Why is such a stern judgment gone forth from the king? And Arioch shewed it unto Daniel. 16. Then Daniel went up, and besought the king to give him time, that he might tell the interpretation unto the king. 17. And Daniel went home, and shewed these things unto his fellows, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 18. That they would ask mercy of God from heaven for this hidden thing, that Daniel and his companions should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19. Then was this hidden thing revealed unto Daniel by a vision in the night. 20. And Daniel praised the LORD from heaven, and began to say, Blessed be the name of the LORD for ever and ever: for his is both wisdom and strength. 21. He changeth the time and the hour; he removeth kings, and setteth up kings; he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and understanding unto them that have understanding; 22. He revealeth that which is deep and hid; he knoweth that which is in darkness: for with him is all light. 23. I thank thee, and praise thee, O God of my fathers, that thou hast given me wisdom and strength, and hast now revealed unto me that which we have asked of thee; that is, thou hast revealed unto us the king's cause. 24. Then Daniel went up to Arioch, which had a commandment from the king to destroy the wise men of Babylon, and said unto him thus, Thou shalt not destroy the wise men of Babylon; but bring me up to the king, and I will tell the king the interpretation. 25. And Arioch hasted and brought Daniel up before the king, and said unto him, There is found one of the captives of Judah that can give the king an interpretation. 26. And the king answered and said unto Daniel, whom they called Belteshazzar: Art thou he that can show me the dream which I have seen, and the interpretation thereof? 27. And Daniel began before the king, and said, The secret thing which the king requireth of the wise men, and of the learned, and of the astrologers, and of the soothsayers, is not in their ability to tell the king, 28. But GOD from heaven, who is able to reveal hidden things, who revealed to Nebuchadnezzar the things that were to come to pass in the days to come. 29. Thy dream and thy vision, when thou wast asleep, were because thou, O king, wast thinking in thy bed how it would be afterward: and he that revealeth hidden things hath shewed thee how it would be. 30. Thus is this hidden thing revealed unto me, not by my wisdom, as though it were greater than all that live; but that the interpretation might be made known unto the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thine heart. 31. Thou, O king, sawest, and, behold, a very great and high image stood before thee, terrible to behold. 32. His head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his loins of brass; 33. His legs were iron; his feet were part iron and part clay. 34. These things thou sawest, until a stone was brought down without hands, which smote the image upon his feet, which were iron and clay, and brake them in pieces. 35. And the iron, and the clay, and the brass, and the silver, and the gold, were broken in pieces together, and became as the chaff of the summer threshingfloor; and the wind wove them together, that they were nowhere to be found. And the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. Thirty-six: this is the dream. Now let us say the interpretation before the king. 37. you, O king, are a king of kings, to whom GOD has given from heaven kingdom, power, strength and honor 38. And all that dwell in the midst of men, and the beasts of the field, and the fowls of the air, have he delivered into thine hand, and given thee dominion over all things. Thou art the golden head. 39. After thee shall arise another kingdom less than thine. After the third kingdom, which is ancient, which shall reign over all the earth. 40. The fourth shall be hard as iron. For as iron breaketh and bruiseth all things; yea, as iron breaketh all things, so shall it break and bruise all things. 41. And when thou hast seen the feet and toes of part of clay, and part of iron, it shall be a divided kingdom: but the plant of the iron shall remain in it, as thou hast seen iron mixed with clay. 42. And the toes of his feet being part iron, and part clay, it shall be part strong kingdom, and part weak kingdom. 43. And when thou hast seen iron mixed with clay, they shall be mixed together after the blood of men, but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron cannot be mixed with clay. 44. But in the days of such kingdoms God shall set up from heaven a kingdom that shall never be destroyed; and his kingdom shall come upon no other people. It will crush and destroy all these kingdoms, but it will remain forever. 45. As thou sawest a stone torn down from the mountain without hands, which brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold. So the great God showed the king how things would be afterward; and this is certainly the dream, and the interpretation is right. 46. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king fell on his face, and worshipped before Daniel, and commanded that they should offer him meat offering and incense. 47. And the king answered Daniel, and said, There is no doubt that your God is a God above all gods, and a Lord above all kings, who can reveal hidden things, because thou hast been able to reveal this hidden thing. 48. And the king exalted Daniel, and gave him great and many gifts, and made him ruler over all the land of Babylon, and set him over all the wise men of Babylon. 49. And Daniel desired of the king that he would set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego over the coasts of Babylon: and Daniel stayed with the king in his court. (Daniel) Chapter 3 The friends of Daniel's steadfastness and fear of God. 1. And king Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, threescore cubits high and six cubits broad, and set it in the land of Babylon in the valley of Dura. 2. And king Nebuchadnezzar sent for the princes, and the lords, and the governors, and the judges, and the reeves, and the counsellors, and the officers, and all the mighty men of the land, that they should come together to dedicate the image which king Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 3. And the princes, and the lords, and the governors, and the judges, and the reeves, and the counsellors, and the officers, and all the mighty men of the land, came together to dedicate the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up. And they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 4. And Ehrenhold cried aloud: Let this be told you, you nations, people and tongues: 5. When ye hear the sound of the trumpets, and of the drums, and of the harps, and of the violins, and of the psalteries, and of the lutes, and of all kinds of instruments, then ye shall fall down, and worship the graven image, which Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up. 6. And whosoever shall not then fall down and worship shall be cast into the fiery furnace from that hour. 7. And when they heard the sound of the trumpets, and of the drums, and of the harps, and of the violins, and of the psalteries, and of all kinds of instruments, all nations and people and tongues fell down, and worshipped the graven image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set. 8. And from that time certain Chaldean men came and accused the Jews, 9. And they began to say unto king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, God grant thee long life. 10. Thou hast sent forth a commandment, that when all men hear the sound of trumpets, and of drums, and of harps, and of violins, and of psalteries, and of lutes, and of all kinds of instruments, they should fall down and worship the graven image; 11. And whosoever would not fall down and worship should be cast into a fiery furnace. 12. Now there are Jewish men whom thou hast set over the offices of the land of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: they have despised thy commandment, and have not honoured thy gods, neither have they worshipped the graven image which thou hast set up. 13. And Nebuchadnezzar commanded with fury and wrath to set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego before him. And the men were set before the king. 14. And Nebuchadnezzar began to speak unto them: How? will ye not, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, honour my God, and worship the graven image which I have set? 15. Come, send ye. As soon as you hear the sound of trumpets, drums, harps, violins, psalteries, lutes and all kinds of strings, fall down and worship the image I have made. If you do not worship it, you will be thrown into the fiery furnace from that hour. Let us see who is the God who will deliver you out of my hand! 16. And Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, began to speak unto king Nebuchadnezzar, saying, There is no need that we should answer thee. 17. Behold, our God, whom we honour, is able to deliver us out of the fiery furnace, and also to deliver us out of thine hand. 18. And if he will not do it, know thou that we will not honour thy gods, nor worship the graven image which thou hast set up. 19. And Nebuchadnezzar was full of wrath, and stood in a vile place against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and commanded that the furnace should be made seven times hotter than it was wont to be made. 20. And he commanded the best men of war that were in his host to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the fiery furnace. 21. So these men were bound with their coats, and their shoes, and their hats, and their other garments, and cast into the burning fiery furnace. 22. For the king's commandment must be hasted. And they stirred up the fire in the furnace, and the men that burnt Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, were consumed in the flames of the fire. 23. And the three men Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down into the burning fiery furnace, as they were bound. 24. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and said unto his counsellors: Did we not cast three men bound into the fire? And they answered and said unto the king: Yes, O king! 25. And he answered and said, Behold, I see four men loose in the fire, and they are unharmed; and the fourth is like unto him, as if he were a son of the gods. 26. And Nebuchadnezzar came near before the hole of the burning furnace, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of GOD most high, come out, and come hither. So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire. 27. And the princes, and the lords, and the governors, and the king's counsellors, came together, and saw that the fire had no power in the bodies of these men, neither was the hair of their heads singed, neither were their coats corrupted; yea, there was no smell of fire in them. 28. And Nebuchadnezzar began to say, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, which hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants, which trusted in him, and kept not the king's commandment, but offered up their bodies, to honour no god, nor to worship any but their God. 29. Now therefore this is my commandment: Whosoever of all nations, people, and tongues shall blaspheme the God of Sadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, he shall perish, and his house shall be shamefully destroyed. For there is no other God who can save like this. 30. And the king gave Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego great authority in the land of Babylon. (Daniel) Chapter 4 Nebuchadnezzar's dream and its interpretation by Daniel. 31. King Nebuchadnezzar to all peoples, people and tongues: God grant you much peace! 32. I have seen fit to declare the signs and wonders which God Most High hath done for me. 33. For his signs are great, and his wonders are mighty; and his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion endureth for ever. Ch. 4, v. 1: I Nebuchadnezzar, when I had good rest in my house, and was at ease in my castle, 2. I saw a dream, and was afraid; and the thoughts which I had upon my bed concerning the vision which I had seen grieved me. 3. And I commanded that all the wise men of Babylon should be brought up before me, to tell me what the dream signified. 4. And they brought up the astrologers, and the wise men, and the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers: and I told the dream before them; but they could not tell me what it signified, 5. Till at the last Daniel came before me, whose name is Belteshazzar, after the name of my god, which hath the spirit of the holy gods. And I told the dream before him: 6. Belteshazzar, thou chief of the stargazers, whom I know to have the spirit of the holy gods, and that nothing is hid from thee, tell the vision of my dream; which I have seen, and what it signifieth. 7. And this is the vision which I saw upon my bed: behold, there stood a tree in the midst of the land, and it was very high, 8. great and thick; his height reached to heaven, and spread to the end of all the land. 9. His boughs were fair, and bare much fruit, whereof all things did eat. All the beasts of the field found shade under it, and the birds of the air sat on its branches, and all flesh fed on it. 10. And I saw a vision upon my bed, and, behold, a holy watcher came down from heaven, 11. And he cried with a loud voice, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off the boughs thereof, and strip off the leaves thereof, and scatter the fruit thereof; that the beasts that lie under it may run, and the birds flee from the branches thereof. 12. But let the rod abide in the earth with his roots: but let him walk in the field in the grass with chains of iron and brass: let him lie under the dew of heaven, and let him be wet, and let him feed with the beasts of the herbs of the earth. 13. And the heart of man shall be taken from him, and the heart of a beast shall be given unto him, until seven times shall pass over him. 14. These things are determined in the council of the watchmen: The council of the watchmen, and the conversation of the saints, that the living may know that the Most High hath power over the kingdoms of men, and giveth them to whomsoever he will, and exalteth the lowly unto them. 15. This dream have I seen, O king Nebuchadnezzar. But thou, Belteshazzar, tell me what it is: for all the wise men of my kingdom cannot tell me what it is: but thou canst, because the spirit of the holy gods is with thee. 16. And Daniel, whose name is Belteshazzar, was afraid for an hour, and his thoughts were troubled. And the king said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream and the interpretation thereof grieve thee. And Belteshazzar began to say, O my lord, that the dream were to thine enemies, and the interpretation thereof to thine enemies. 17. The tree which thou sawest, that it was great and thick, and that the height thereof reached unto heaven, and spread abroad over all the earth, 18. And the boughs thereof were good, and the fruit thereof abundant, and all that did eat thereof; and the beasts of the field dwelt under him: And the beasts of the field dwelt under him, and the fowls of the air sat upon his boughs: 19. This is thou, O king, that art great and mighty: for thy power is great, and reacheth unto heaven; and thy dominion endureth unto the end of the world. 20. And the king saw a holy watcher come down from heaven, and say, Cut down the tree, and destroy it; but let the stump with the roots thereof remain in the earth: but let it walk in the grass of the field in chains of iron and brass, and let it lie under the dew of heaven, and let it be wet, and let it feed with the beasts of the field, until seven times be past upon it: 21. This is the interpretation, O king; and such counsel of the most High is upon my lord the king. 22. Thou shalt be cast out from among men, and shalt dwell with the beasts of the field; and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen; and thou shalt lie under the dew of heaven, and be wet, until seven times be past upon thee; that thou mayest know that the Most High hath power over the kingdoms of men, and giveth them to whomsoever he will. 23. But that it is said, Nevertheless let the stick remain with the roots of the tree: thy kingdom shall remain unto thee, when thou shalt know the power that is in heaven. 24. Therefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and cleanse thee from thy sins by righteousness, and from thine iniquity by lovingkindness unto the poor; and he shall have patience with thy sins. 25. All these things happened unto Nebuchadnezzar the king. 26. For after twelve months the king went into the royal castle of Babylon, 27. And he began to say, This is great Babylon, which I have built for a royal house by my great power, in honour of my glory. 28. Before the king had spoken these words, there came a voice from heaven, saying, Unto thee, O king Nebuchadnezzar, it is said, Thy kingdom shall be taken from thee, 29. And they shall cast thee out from among men, and thou shalt dwell with the beasts of the field; and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, until seven times be past upon thee; that thou mayest know that the Most High hath power over the kingdoms of men, and giveth them to whomsoever he will. 30. From that hour the word was accomplished concerning Nebuchadnezzar, and he was cast out of the people, and he did eat grass like oxen, and his body was under the dew of heaven, and was wet, until his hair grew as great as eagles' feathers, and his nails became as birds' claws. 31. After that time I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and came to my senses, and praised the most High. I praised and glorified him that liveth for ever, whose power is for ever, and whose kingdom endureth for ever, 32. Against whom all that dwell on the earth are counted as nothing. He doeth as he will, both with the powers that are in heaven, and with them that dwell on the earth: and no man can stay his hand, nor say unto him, What doest thou? 33. At that time I returned to my senses, and to my royal honors, and to my glory, and to my form. And my counsellors and my mighty men sought me, and I was set again in my kingdom; and I came into greater glory. 34. Therefore I praise, Nebuchadnezzar, and honour and magnify the king from heaven. For all his doings are truth, and his ways are right; and he that is proud he is able to humble. (Daniel) Chapter 5 The godless king Belshazzar's feast and doom. 1. King Belshazzar made a glorious feast of a thousand of his mighty men and captains, and drank with them. 2. And when he was drunken, he commanded to bring the vessels of gold and silver, which Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, that the king might drink of them with his mighty men, and with his wives, and with his concubines. 3. So the vessels of gold were brought, which were taken out of the temple, out of the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and the king, and his princes, and his wives, and his concubines, drank of them. 4. And as they drank, they praised the gods of gold, and silver, and brass, and iron, and wood, and stone. 5. And at that very hour there came forth fingers, as of a man's hand writing, over against the candlestick, upon the whitewashed wall of the king's chamber. And the king perceived the hand that wrote. 6. Then the king's heart was disquieted, and his thoughts terrified him, so that his loins shook, and his legs trembled. 7. And the king cried aloud to bring up the wise men, and the Chaldeans, and the diviners: and he said unto the wise men of Babylon, What man shall read this writing, and shall know what it meaneth, that man shall be clothed in purple, and have chains of gold about his neck, and shall be the third lord in my kingdom. 8. Then were all the king's wise men brought up; but they could not read the writing, neither shewed they the interpretation unto the king. 9. Then king Belshazzar was sore afraid, and lost his form altogether; and his mighty men were afraid. 10. Then the queen went up into the hall for the king's sake, and for the sake of his mighty men, and said, O king, God grant thee long life. Let not thy thoughts so terrify thee, and be not thus discoloured! 11. There is a man in thy kingdom that hath the spirit of the holy gods. For in thy father's time there was found in him enlightenment, wisdom, and prudence, as the wisdom of the gods: and thy father king Nebuchadnezzar set him over the astrologers, and the wise men, and the Chaldeans, and the diviners, 12. Because there was found with him a high spirit, and understanding, and wisdom, to interpret proverbs, and to divine dark sayings, and to reveal hidden things, Daniel, whom the king called Belteshazzar. Call Daniel, and he will tell you what it means. 13. And Daniel was brought up before the king: and the king said unto Daniel, Art thou Daniel the prisoner of one of Judah, whom the king my father hath brought out of Judah? 14. I have heard it said of thee, that thou hast the spirit of the holy gods, and that enlightenment, understanding, and great wisdom are found in thee. 15. Now I have called before me the wise and prudent to read this scripture, and to shew me what it meaneth: and they cannot tell me what it meaneth. 16. But of thee I hear that thou canst give the interpretation, and reveal the hidden things. If thou canst read the scripture, and shew me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed in purple, and shalt have chains of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third lord in my kingdom. 17. Then Daniel began to speak before the king: Keep thy gifts thyself, and give thy present unto another: nevertheless I will read the writing unto the king, and shew what it meaneth. 18. O LORD King, GOD Most High has given your father Nebuchadnezzar kingdom, power, honor and glory. 19. And for such power as was given him, all nations, people, and tongues feared and were afraid of him. He slew whom he would; he smote whom he would; he exalted whom he would; he humbled whom he would. 20. And when his heart was lifted up, and he was proud and haughty, he was cast out of the king's seat, and lost his honour; 21. And he was cast out of men, and his heart was like unto beasts, and he walked with the wild beasts, and did eat grass like oxen; and his belly was under the dew of heaven, and was wet, until he learned that GOD Most High hath power over the kingdoms of men, and giveth them to whomsoever he will. 22. And thou, Belshazzar his son, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knowest all these things, 23. But thou hast exalted thyself against the LORD of heaven, and the vessels of his house have been brought before thee: and thou, and thy mighty men, and thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk therefrom, and praised the gods of silver, and of brass, and of iron, and of wood, and of stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor feel: but the LORD, which hath thy breath, and all thy ways in his hand, hast thou not honoured. 24. Therefore is this hand sent from him, and this writing, which is written. 25. But this is the writing recorded all there: Mene, mene, tekel, upharsin. 26. And it signifieth this: Mene, that is, God has numbered and completed your kingdom. 27. tekel, that is, they weighed you in a balance and found you too light. 28. Peresh, that is, thy kingdom is divided, and given unto the Medes and Persians. 29. And Belshazzar commanded that Daniel should be clothed in purple, and that chains of gold should be put about his neck: and he proclaimed of him that he was the third lord in the kingdom. 30. And it came to pass in the night, that Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans was slain. (Daniel) Chapter 6 Daniel's deliverance from the lion's den under Darius. 31. And Darius of Media took the kingdom when he was sixty and two years old. Ch. 6, v. 1: And Darius saw fit to set over the whole kingdom an hundred and twenty governors. 2. And over these he set three princes, one of whom was Daniel, whom the governors should give account unto, and the king should be overcharged. 3. And Daniel excelled all the princes and governors: for there was a high spirit in him: therefore the king thought to set him over all the kingdom. 4. Therefore the princes and the governors sought how they might find a thing against Daniel that was against the kingdom: but they could find no thing nor iniquity: for he was faithful, that no fault nor iniquity should be found in him. 5. And the men said, We shall not find any thing to Daniel without above his service. 6. Then the princes and the governors came often before the king, and said unto him thus, O king Darius, God grant thee long life. 7. The princes of the kingdom, and the lords, and the governors, and the counsellors, and the captains, have all thought to send forth a royal commandment, and to make a strict decree, that whosoever shall ask anything of any god or man within thirty days, except of thee, O king, alone, shall be cast into the lions' den. 8. Wherefore, dear king, thou shalt confirm such a commandment, and sign thee, lest it be changed again, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which none may transgress. 9. So the king Darius signed himself. 10. And when Daniel knew that such a commandment was signed, he went up to his house; for he had open windows in his summer house toward Jerusalem. And he fell on his knees three times that day, and prayed, and praised, and thanked his God, as he had done before. 11. Then these men came often, and found Daniel praying and supplicating before his God. 12. And they came and spake unto the king of the king's commandment: O king, hast thou not signed a commandment, that whosoever shall ask anything of any god or man within thirty days, without from thee, O king, alone, shall be cast into the den of lions? And the king answered and said, It is true; and the law of the Medes and Persians shall no man transgress. 13. And they answered and said before the king: Daniel, one of the captives of Judah, regardeth not thee, nor thy commandment which thou hast written: for he prayeth three times a day. 14. And when the king heard these things, he was sore distressed, and did great diligence to deliver Daniel, and laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him. 15. But the men came often unto the king, and said unto him, Thou knowest, O king, that it is lawful for the Medes and Persians, that all the commandments and all the statutes which the king hath ordained should remain unchanged. 16. And the king commanded that Daniel should be brought, and they cast him into the den with the lions. And the king said unto Daniel, Thy God, whom thou servest without ceasing, help thee. 17. And they brought a stone, and laid it before the door of the trench; and the king sealed it with his own ring, and with the ring of his mighty men, that none else might do evil against Daniel. 18. And the king went away into his castle, and remained uneaten, and had no meat set before him, neither could he sleep. 19. And it came to pass in the morning, when it was daybreak, that the king arose, and went in haste unto the trench where the lions were. 20. And when he was come to the trench, he called Daniel with a lamentable voice. And the king said unto Daniel, Daniel, thou servant of the living God, hath thy God, whom thou servest without ceasing, delivered thee from the lions? 21. And Daniel spake unto the king: O king, God grant thee long life! 22. My God hath sent his angel, which hath shut the lions' mouths, that they should not hurt me. For before him I am found innocent, and have done nothing against thee, O king. 23. And the king was very glad, and brought Daniel out of the ditch. And they drew Daniel out of the trench, and there was no hurt in him: for he had trusted in his God. 24. And the king commanded the men that had accused Daniel to be brought, and to be cast into the lions' den, with their children and their wives. And before they came down to the ground, the lions took them, and brake their bones in pieces. 25. Then Darius the king wrote unto all nations, people, and tongues: God grant you much peace! 26. This is my commandment, that in all the dominion of my kingdom the God of Daniel should be feared and reverenced. For he is the living God, who abideth for ever: and his kingdom is everlasting, and his dominion is without end. 27. He is a deliverer and a giver of salvation, and doeth signs and wonders both in heaven and in earth. He delivered Daniel from the lions. 28. And Daniel was mighty in the kingdom of Darius, and also in the kingdom of Cyrus the Persian. (Daniel) Chapter 7 Of four monarchies and Christ's everlasting kingdom. 1. In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream, and his face was upon his bed: and he wrote the dream, and wrote it thus: 2. I Daniel saw a vision in the night, and, behold, the four winds which are under heaven tempest one against another upon the great sea. 3. And four great beasts came up out of the sea, every one different from the other. 4. The first was like a lion, and had wings like an eagle. And I watched until his wings were plucked out: and he was taken from the earth, and stood upon his feet as a man, and was given a human heart. 5. And, behold, the second beast after him was like a bear, and stood on one side, and had in his mouth under his teeth three great long teeth. And they said unto him, Arise, and eat much flesh. 6. And after these things I looked, and, behold, another beast like a leopard, having four wings like a bird upon his back: and the same beast had four heads, and power was given unto him. 7. After these things I looked in this vision by night, and, behold, the fourth beast was hideous and terrible, and very strong, and had great iron teeth, and devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet: he was also much different from the beasts that were before, and had ten horns. 8. And when I saw the horns, behold, there came out from among them another little horn, before whom were plucked up three of the first horns: and, behold, that horn had eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things. 9. I saw these things until the chairs were set: and the old man sat down, whose raiment was white as snow, and the hair of his head was as the pure wool: his chair was as the flames of fire, and the wheels thereof burned with fire. 10. And out of the same went forth a long fiery ray. A thousand times a thousand ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The judgment was held, and the books were opened. 11. I watched because of the great words which the horn spake; I watched until the beast was slain, and his body was consumed, and cast into the fire, 12. And the power of the other beasts was ended: for the time and the hour were determined for them, how long they should continue. 13. I saw in this vision by night, and, behold, there came one in the clouds of heaven as the son of man unto the old man, and was brought before him. 14. Who gave him power, and glory, and kingdom, that all nations, and people, and tongues, should serve him. His power is everlasting, which shall not pass away; and his kingdom shall have no end. 15. I, Daniel, was astonished at it, and such a face terrified me. 16. And I went to one of them that sat there, and besought him that he would give me a certain report of all this. And he talked with me, and shewed me what it meant. 17. These four great beasts are four kingdoms which shall come upon the earth. 18. But the saints of the Most High shall possess the kingdom, and shall possess it for ever and ever. 19. After these things I would gladly have known a certain report of the fourth beast, which was very different from all the rest, very horrible, having iron teeth and brass claws, which devoured and brake in pieces, and trodden down the rest with his feet, 20. And of the ten horns that were upon his head, and of the other which came forth, before which three fell off, and of the same horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake great things, and was greater than they that were by him. 21. And I saw the same horn fight against the saints, and prevail against them, 22. Till the Ancient of days came and held judgment for the saints of the Most High; and the time came for the saints to take the kingdom. 23. And he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon the earth, which shall be mightier than all kingdoms; it shall devour all the earth, and tread it down, and break it in pieces. 24. The ten horns are ten kings, which shall arise out of the same kingdom. And after them shall arise another, mightier than the first, and shall humble three kings. 25. He shall blaspheme the Most High, and shall disturb the saints of the Most High, and shall presume to change the time and the law. And they shall be given into his hand for a time, and for several times, and for half a time. 26. After this shall be the judgment: then shall his power be taken away, and he shall perish, and be put to death. 27. But the kingdom, and the power, and the authority under the whole heaven, shall be given to the holy people of the Most High, whose kingdom is eternal; and all authority shall serve and obey him. 28. And that was the end of the speech. But I, Daniel, was greatly distressed in my thoughts, and my form fell; yet I kept the speech in my heart. (Daniel) Chapter 8 End of the second and beginning of the third monarchy. 1. In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar there appeared unto me, even unto Daniel, a vision like unto that which appeared unto me at the first. 2. And I was, when I saw such a vision, in Shushan the palace, in the land of Elam, by the river Ulai. 3. And I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, a ram stood before the river, having two high horns, but the one higher than the other, and the highest growing last. 4. And I saw the ram thrusting with his horns toward the west, and toward the north, and toward the south: and there was no beast that could stand before him, nor be delivered out of his hand: but he did according to his will, and waxed great. 5. And when I perceived thereupon, behold, a he goat came from the west over all the earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a goodly horn between his eyes. 6. And he came unto the ram that had two horns, which I saw standing before the waters: and he ran mightily in his wrath toward him. 7. And I saw him come hard upon the ram, and was enraged at him, and thrust the ram, and brake his two horns. And the ram had no strength to stand before him, but he cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and no man could deliver the ram out of his hand. 8. And the kid grew very great. And when he was grown strongest, the great horn was broken: and there grew up in his place four great horns against the four winds of heaven. 9. And out of the same one grew a little horn, which became very great toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the good land. 10. And it grew up unto the host of heaven, and cast some of them, and of the stars, unto the earth, and trod them down. 11. Yea, it grew up unto the prince of the host, and took away from him the daily sacrifice, and desolated the tabernacle of his sanctuary. 12. And such power was given him against the daily sacrifice for sin, that he smote the truth to the ground, and whatsoever he did he prospered. 13. And I heard a holy man speak, and the same holy man spake unto one that spake: How long shall this vision of the daily sacrifice, and of the sin for which this desolation is made, both the sanctuary and the host, be trodden down? 14. And he said unto me, Two thousand and three hundred days, from even unto even, shall the sanctuary be consecrated again. 15. And when I, Daniel, saw such a vision, and would have understood it, behold, it stood before me like a man. 16. And I heard between Ulai a man's voice crying, saying, Gabriel, set the face of this man, that he may understand. 17. And he came hard unto me. And I was afraid when he came, and fell upon my face. And he said unto me, Take heed, thou son of man: for this vision is of the time of the end. 18. And as he spake unto me, I sank down on my face to the earth in a swoon. And he touched me, and lifted me up, and I stood. 19. And he said, Behold, I will shew thee how it shall be in the time of the last wrath: for the end hath an appointed time. 20. The ram with two horns, which thou sawest, are the kings of Media and Persia. 21. And the he goat is king in Greece. The great horn between his eyes is the first king. 22. And that four stood in his stead, when it was broken, signifieth that four kingdoms shall arise out of the people, but not so mighty as he was. 23. After these kingdoms, when the transgressors shall abound, there shall arise an insolent and treacherous king. 24. He shall be mighty, but not by his power. He shall destroy it marvellously: and he shall succeed in his work. He shall destroy the mighty with the holy people. 25. And by his prudence shall he be advised of deceit. And shall rise up in his heart, and by prosperity shall he corrupt many, and shall rise up against the prince of all princes. But he shall be broken without hand. 26. This vision of the evenings and mornings, which is told thee, it is true; but thou shalt keep the vision secret, because it is yet a long time. 27. And I Daniel was faint, and lay sick some days. And afterward I arose, and did the king's business. And I marvelled at the vision; and there was none to tell me. (Daniel) Chapter 9 Daniel's prayer and prophecy of the seventy weeks. 1. In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the tribe of the Medes, who reigned over the kingdom of the Chaldeans, 2. In the same first year of his reign I Daniel noted in the books the number of the years, which the LORD spake unto Jeremiah the prophet, that Jerusalem should lie desolate seventy years. 3. And I turned unto GOD the LORD, to pray and to supplicate, with fasting, in sackcloth and ashes. 4. And I prayed unto the LORD my God, confessing, saying, O Lord, thou greater and terrible God, which keepest covenant and grace unto them that love thee, and keepest thy commandments: 5. we have sinned, we have done wrong, we have been ungodly, we have gone astray; we have departed from thy commandments and thy statutes. 6. We hearkened not unto thy servants the prophets, which preached in thy name unto our kings, and to our princes, and to our fathers, and to all the people of the land. 7. Thou, O LORD, art righteous: but we are ashamed, as now we pray thee, to them of Judah, and to them of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, both to them that are near, and to them that are far off, in all countries, whither thou hast cast us out for their iniquity which they have committed against thee. 8. Yea, O LORD, we, our kings, our princes, and our fathers, are ashamed, because we have sinned against thee. 9. But thine, O LORD our God, is mercy and forgiveness. For we have become apostates 10. And obeyed not the voice of the LORD our God, that we should walk in his law, which he set before us by his servants the prophets, 11. But all Israel transgressed thy law, and turned aside, because they obeyed not thy voice. Therefore the curse and the oath, which is written in the law of Moses the servant of God, is upon us, because we have sinned against him. 12. And he hath kept his words which he spake against us, and against our judges that should judge us, in that he hath brought upon us such great calamities, that there was none like them in all heaven, as there was upon Jerusalem. 13. As it is written in the law of Moses, so all this great evil is come upon us. Neither prayed we before the LORD our God, that we might repent of sins, and receive thy truth. 14. Therefore the LORD also hath been valiant in this calamity, and hath suffered it to pass upon us. For the LORD our God is righteous in all his works that he doeth: for we have not obeyed his voice. 15. And now, O LORD our God, who hast brought thy people up out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and hast made thee a name, as it is now: for we have sinned, and, alas, have been ungodly. 16. O LORD, for all thy righteousness' sake turn away thy wrath and thy anger from thy city Jerusalem, and from thy holy mountain. For our sins, and our fathers' iniquities, Jerusalem and thy people are reproached of all that are round about us. 17. And now, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications; and look graciously upon thy sanctuary, which is desolate, for the LORD'S sake. 18. Incline thine ears, O my God, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold how we are distressed, and the city that is called by thy name. For we lie before thee with our prayer, not upon our righteousness, but upon thy great mercy. 19. O LORD, hear; O LORD, be merciful; O LORD, take heed, and do it, and consume not for thine own sake, O my God. For thy city and thy people are called by thy name. 20. While I yet spake and prayed, and confessed my sin, and the sin of my people Israel, and lay with my prayer before the LORD my God, about the holy mountain of my God, 21. And as I was thus speaking in my prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I saw before in the vision, flew therefore, and touched me about the time of the evening sacrifice. 22. And he told me, and spake unto me, saying, Daniel, now am I gone forth to tell thee. 23. For when thou beganst to pray, this command went forth, and I come to tell thee: for thou art good and worthy. Take heed therefore that thou understand the vision. 24. Seventy weeks are appointed for thy people, and for thy holy city: and the transgression shall be repented of, and sin shall be sealed, and iniquity shall be atoned for, and everlasting righteousness shall be brought, and visions and prophecies shall be sealed, and the most holy place shall be anointed. 25. Know therefore, and mark, that from the time when the commandment shall go forth, that Jerusalem should be rebuilt until Christ the Prince, seven weeks and threescore and two weeks, the streets and the walls shall be rebuilt, though it be in a small time. 26. And after the threescore and two weeks Christ shall be cut off, and shall be nothing. And a people of the prince shall come, and shall destroy the city and the sanctuary, and it shall be cut off as by a flood: and it shall be desolate until the end of the controversy. 27. And he shall strengthen the covenant of many for a week. And in the midst of the week the sacrifice and the meat offering shall cease. And by the wings shall stand abominations of desolation: and it is determined that desolation shall overflow unto the end. (Daniel) Chapter 10 Preparation for the following faces. 1. In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia there was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, a thing sure and of great things: and he perceived it, and understood the vision. 2. At the same time I, Daniel, was sad for three weeks. 3. I did eat no sweetmeats, neither did meat nor wine enter into my mouth: neither did I anoint myself until the three weeks were expired. 4. In the four and twentieth day of the first month was I, by the great water Hiddekel 5. And I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there stood a man clothed in linen, having a girdle of gold about his loins. 6. His body was like turquoise, his countenance looked like lightning, his eyes like a fiery torch, his arms and his feet like burning brass, and his speech was like a great sound. 7. And I Daniel saw that vision alone, and the men that were with me saw it not: but great terror fell upon them, and they fled, and hid themselves. 8. And I tarried alone, and saw that great vision. But there remained no strength in me, and I became very shapeless, and had no strength. 9. And I heard his words: and when I heard them, I bowed myself to the ground. 10. And, behold, a hand touched me, and helped me upon my knees and upon my hands. 11. And he said unto me, Thou Daniel, mark the words which I speak unto thee, and arise: for I am now sent unto thee. And when he spake these things unto me, I straightened myself, and trembled. 12. And he said unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst desire to understand with thine heart, and didst mortify thyself before thy God, thy words are heard; and I am come for thy sake. 13. But the prince of the kingdom in the land of Persia withstood me twenty and one days: and, behold, Michael, the chief prince of one, came to my help; and I prevailed with the kings of Persia. 14. But now I come to tell thee how thy people shall fare hereafter: for the vision shall be after a time. 15. And when he spake these things unto me, I bowed down my face to the earth, and held my peace. 16. And, behold, one like a man touched my lips. And I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, My lord, my joints are shaken above my face, and I have no strength. 17. And how can the servant of my lord speak unto my lord, because now there is no strength in me, neither have I breath any more? 18. And once one touched me, as one fashioned like a man, and strengthened me. 19. And said, Fear not, thou good man. Peace be unto thee; and be of good cheer, be of good cheer. And when he spake unto me, I answered and said, My lord, speak; for thou hast strengthened me. 20. And he said, Knowest thou also why I am come unto thee? Now I will go again, and fight with the prince in Persia: but when I depart, behold, the prince shall come out of Greece. 21. But I will shew thee that which is written, which shall surely come to pass. And there is none to help me against them but your lord Michael. Ch. 11, v. 1: For I also stood with him in the first year of Darius the Mede, to help him, and to strengthen him. 2. And now I will shew thee things which shall surely come to pass. (Daniel) Chapter 11 Of the kings in Persia, Alexander the Great's and his descendants' quarrels, and Antiochus' tyranny. Behold, there shall yet be three kings in Persia: but the fourth shall have greater riches than all the rest: and when he is mightiest in his riches, he shall stir up all things against the kingdom in Greece. 3. After this shall a mighty king arise, and shall reign with great power: and whatsoever he will, that shall he bring to pass. 4. And when he is come to the highest, his kingdom shall be broken up, and divided into the four winds of heaven; not upon his seed, nor with such power as his was: for his kingdom shall be cut off, and given unto strangers. 5. And the king southward, which is one of his princes, shall be mighty: but against him shall one also be mighty, and shall reign, whose dominion shall be great. 6. And it shall come to pass, after a number of years, that they shall be friends one to another: and the king's daughter toward the south shall come to the king toward the north, to make an agreement. But she shall not abide in the power of the arm, neither shall her seed stand: but she shall be delivered up with them that brought her, and with the child, and him that made her mighty a while. 7. And there shall arise one of the branches of their tribe, and he shall come with host, and shall fall upon the king about the north in his stronghold; and he shall execute it, and prevail. 8. And he shall carry away their gods, and their images, and their precious things, both of silver and of brass, into Egypt, and shall stand before the king toward the north for many years. 9. And when he shall have passed through the kingdom thereof, he shall return unto his own land. 10. But his sons shall be wroth, and shall gather together great armies: and the one shall come and go like a flood, and shall provoke the other again before his feasts. 11. And the king shall be angry toward the south, and shall go out, and fight with the king toward the north: and he shall gather together such a great multitude, that that multitude shall be given into his hand. 12. And he shall lead away the same company. His heart shall be lifted up, because he hath laid so many thousands low: but he shall not be able to do it. 13. For the king shall gather again about midnight a greater company than that which was before: and after many years he shall go forth with a great army, and with great goods. 14. And it shall come to pass in that day, that many shall sit down against the king at noon: and there shall arise some of thy people that are apostates, and shall fulfil the prophecy, and shall fall. 15. So the king shall go forth toward the north, and shall make a separation, and shall gain strong cities: and the south arm shall not be able to withstand it, neither shall his best people be able to withstand it, 16. But when he cometh to him, he will work his will; and none shall be able to withstand him. He shall also come into the good land, and shall finish it by his hand. 17. And he shall set his face to come with the power of all his kingdom. And he shall deal with him, and shall give him his daughter to wife, to destroy him: but he shall not deal with him, neither shall any thing come of it. 18. Afterward he shall turn against the isles, and shall gain many of them. But a prince shall teach him to cease from reproach, and to revile him no more. 19. And he shall turn again to the strongholds of his land, and shall thrust himself, and fall, and shall not be found. 20. And in his stead shall arise one that shall sit in royal honour, as a minion. But after a few days he shall break, yet not by wrath, nor by strife. 21. There shall arise in his stead an unworthy man, to whom the honour of the kingdom was not given: he shall come, and shall prosper, and shall take the kingdom with sweet words. 22. And the arms that go down like a flood shall be overtaken before him as with a flood, and shall be broken, even the prince with whom the covenant was made. 23. For after he hath befriended him, he shall deal craftily against him; and shall come up, and overpower him with a small people. 24. And it shall come to pass, that he shall enter into the best cities of the land, and shall do that which his fathers, nor his forefathers, could not do, by spoiling, and plundering, and taking: and he shall seek the most strong cities, and that for a season. 25. And he shall stir up his power and his heart against the king at noon with a great host. And the king shall be provoked to battle at noon with a great and mighty host. But he shall not prevail: for treacheries shall be made against him. 26. And they that eat his bread shall help to destroy him, and shall oppress his host, and many shall be slain. 27. And the hearts of both kings shall think how they have hurt one another, and shall speak falsely one to another over one table. But they shall lack; for the end is yet for another time. 28. And afterward he shall return with great substance, and shall judge his heart against the holy covenant; and he shall perform a thing, and return to his own land. 29. After this he shall go again in due season toward the south: but it shall not be for him the second time, as it was for the first. 30. For ships shall come against him out of Chittim, and he shall despair, and turn back. And he shall be enraged against the holy covenant, and shall bring it to pass: and he shall look round about, and draw them to himself that forsake the holy covenant. 31. And his anne shall stand there; and they shall profane the sanctuary of the feast, and cast off the daily sacrifice, and set up an abomination of desolation. 32. And he shall pretend, and give good words unto the wicked that transgress the covenant. But the people that know their God shall be moved, and shall perform it. 33. And the wise of the people shall teach many others: and they shall fall by the sword, and by the fire, and by the prison, and by the spoil, for a season. 34. And if they fall, yet a little help shall come to them. But many will do to them deceitfully. 35. And of them that have understanding shall fall, that they may be proved pure and clean, until there be an end: for there is yet another time. (Daniel) Chapter 12 Of the Antichrist, the last times, resurrection of the dead, etc. 36. And the king shall do whatsoever he will, and shall rise up and rebel against all that is God; and against the God of all gods shall he speak abominably: and he shall prosper until the wrath be ended: for it is determined how long it shall endure. 37. And he shall not esteem the God of his fathers: he shall not esteem the love of women, nor any of the things of God: for he shall rebel against them all. 38. But in his stead shall he honour his God Maußim: for he shall honour a God which his fathers knew not of, with gold, and silver, and precious stones, and jewels. 39. And he shall do great honour to them that help him strengthen Maussim with the strange god whom he hath chosen, and shall make them lords over great possessions, and shall give them the land for a reward. 40. And it shall come to pass, that the king shall be at the south with him: and the king shall be at the north against him with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships: and he shall fall into the countries, and destroy, and pass through. 41. And shall fall in the good land, and many shall perish. But these shall escape out of his hand: Edom, Moab, and the firstfruits of the children of Ammon. 42. And he shall send his power into the countries, and Egypt shall not escape him, 43. But he shall reign by his train over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the treasures of Egypt, and of Libya, and of the carrots. 44. And he shall be terrified with a shout from morning till midnight; and he shall go forth with great fury, willing to destroy and to destroy many. 45. And he shall pitch the tent of his palace between two seas round about the holy mountain, until there be an end of him: and no man shall help him. Ch. 12, v. 1: In that day shall Michael the great prince, which standeth for thy people, arise. For there shall be such a time of trouble, as hath not been since men were, until that time. In that day thy people shall be saved, all that are written in the book. 2. And many that sleep under the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to everlasting shame and dishonour. 3. And the teachers shall shine as the brightness of heaven, and they that teach many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. 4. And now, Daniel, hide these words, and seal up this writing until the latter time; and many shall come upon it, and find great understanding. 5. And I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood two others, the one on this bank of the river, and the other on that bank. 6. And he said unto him clothed in linen, which stood by the river, When shall these miracles cease? 7. And I heard him that was clothed in linen standing by the waters, and he lifted up his right hand and his left hand toward heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever, that it shall be for a time, and times, and half a time: and when the dispersion of the holy people is ended, all these things shall be done. 8. And I heard it: but I understood not, saying, My lord, what shall be after this? 9. And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for it is hid and sealed until the last time. 10. Many shall be cleansed, and purified, and tried: and the wicked shall walk in wickedness, and the ungodly shall not esteem it: but they that have understanding shall esteem it. 11. And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be done, and an abomination of desolation shall be offered, a thousand two hundred and ninety days: 12. Blessed is he that looketh for, and reacheth a thousand three hundred and thirty and five days. 13. But thou, Daniel, go thy way until the end come, and rest, that thou mayest arise in thy part at the end of the days. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Hosea ^ Chapter 1 The Israelite people's idolatry and punishment prefigured. 1. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Hosea the son of Beheri in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel. 2. And when the LORD began to speak by Hosea, he said unto him, Go thy way, take a harlot wife and children of harlots: for the land runneth after harlotry from the LORD. 3. And he went and took Gomer the daughter of Diblaim, which conceived, and bare him a son. 4. And the LORD said unto him, Call his name Jezreel: for it is yet a little while, and I will visit the blood in Jezreel upon the house of Jehu, and will make an end of the kingdom of the house of Israel. 5. In that day will I break the bow of Israel in the valley of Jezreel. 6. And she conceived again, and bare a daughter. And he said unto him, Call her name Lo-ryhamo: for I will have no more mercy upon the house of Israel, but I will put her away. 7. But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the LORD their God: but I will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, nor by horse, nor by horseman. 8. And when she had weaned Lo-ryhamo, she conceived again, and bare a son. 9. And he said, Call his name Lo-ammi: for ye are not my people, neither will I be yours. (Hosea) Chapter 2 God's covenant with his church. 10. And the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured nor numbered. And it shall come to pass in the place where it was said unto them: Ye are not my people, it shall be said unto them, O ye children of the living God! 11. For the children of Judah and the children of Israel shall come together, and shall cleave to one head, and shall go up out of the land: for the day of Jezreel shall be a great day. Ch. 2, v. 1. Say to your brethren, they are my people; and to your sister, she is in grace. 2. Speak judgment against your mother, saying, She is not my wife, and I will not have her. Put away her fornication from her face, and her adultery from her breasts, 3. Lest I strip her naked, and present her as she was when she was born, and make her as a desolation, and as a dry land, and cause her to die of thirst, 4. And I will not have mercy on their children; for they are the children of harlots, 5. And her mother is a harlot, and she that bare her is shameful, and saith, I will go after my lovers, which give me bread, and water, and wool, and flax, and oil, and drink. 6. Therefore, behold, I will hedge up thy way with thorns, and will put a wall before it, that it shall not find its way, 7. And if she go after her lovers, that she take them not, and if she seek them, that she find them not, and say: I will go again to my former husband, when I was better than I am now. 8. For she will not know that I am he that giveth her corn, and wine, and oil, and have given her much silver and gold, which they have used for Baal. 9. Therefore will I take again my corn and my wine in their season, and take away my wool and my flax, that they may cover their shame. 10. Now will I expose their shame in the sight of their lovers, and none shall deliver them out of mine hand. 11. And I will make an end of all their joys, and of their feasts, and of their new moons, and of their sabbaths, and of all their holy days. 12. I will make her vines and her fig trees desolate; because she saith, This is my reward, which my lovers give me. I will make a forest of it, and the wild beasts shall eat it. 13. So will I visit upon her the days of Baalim, to whom she burneth incense; and she adorneth herself with her headdresses and her collars, and goeth after her lovers, and forgetteth me, saith the LORD. 14. Therefore, behold, I will entice her, and will bring her into a wilderness, and will speak kindly unto her. 15. And I will give her her vineyards out of the same place, and the valley of Achor, to open her hope. And there shall she sing, as in the days of her youth, when she came forth out of the land of Egypt. 16. Then saith the LORD, Thou shalt call me my husband, and shalt call me no more my Baal. 17. For I will put away the names of Baalim from their mouths, and they shall remember them no more. 18. And I will make a covenant for them in that day with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of the heaven, and with the creeping things of the earth; and I will break the bow, and the sword, and the war, from off the land, and will make them dwell safely. 19. I will betroth myself unto thee for ever: I will trust in thee in righteousness and in judgment, in mercy and in grace; 20. Yea, in faith will I betroth myself unto thee; and thou shalt know the LORD. 21. In that day, saith the LORD, will I hear; I will hear heaven; and heaven shall hear the earth. 22. And the earth shall yield corn, and wine, and oil: and they shall yield Jezreel. 23. And I will keep them for my seed upon the earth, and will have mercy upon them that were in disgrace, and will say unto them that were not my people, Thou art my people: and they shall say, Thou art my God. (Hosea) Chapter 3 Of mankind's unfaithfulness and God's longsuffering. 1. And the LORD said unto me, Go yet one more, and woo the woman that is covetous and adulterous, as the LORD woos the children of Israel, and they turn unto strange gods, and woo a flagon of wine. 2. And I was one with her for fifteen shekels of silver, and an homer and a half of barley. 3. And he said unto her, Take hold of me for a season, and be not a harlot, and let no other come unto thee: for I will take hold of thee also. 4. For the children of Israel shall be long without king, and without princes, and without sacrifice, and without altar, and without ephod, and without sanctuary. 5. Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king, and shall honour the LORD and his mercy in the latter days. (Hosea) Chapter 4 Sermon of punishment, directed against the sin of the Israelites. 1. Hear, ye children of Israel, the word of the LORD: for the LORD hath cause to rebuke them that dwell in the land. For there is no faithfulness, no love, no word of God in the land, 2. But blasphemy, lying, murder, stealing, and adultery, have abounded, and come one bloodguilt after another. 3. Therefore shall the land be desolate, and all the inhabitants thereof shall perish: for the beasts of the field, and the fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea, shall be taken away. 4. But rebuke not, neither rebuke any: for my people are as they that rebuke the priests. 5. Therefore thou shalt fall by day, and the prophet shall fall by night beside thee: so will I put thy mother to death. 6. My people are gone, because they will not learn. For thou rejectest the word of God; therefore will I reject thee also, that thou shouldest not be my priest. Thou forgettest the law of thy God; therefore will I also forget thy children. 7. The more they are, the more they sin against me: therefore will I put their glory to shame. 8. They devour the sin offerings of my people, and are eager for their sins. 9. Therefore it shall be unto the people as unto the priest: for I will punish their doings, and will recompense them according to their deserts, 10. That they should eat, and not be satisfied, and commit fornication; and they shall not prosper, because they have forsaken the LORD, and have no respect unto him. 11. fornication, wine and must make great. 12. My people shall inquire of their wood, and their staff shall preach unto them: for the spirit of whoredom deceiveth them, that they should commit whoredom against their God. 13. They sacrifice upon the top of the mountains, and burn incense upon the hills, under the oaks, and under the lindens, and under the beeches; for they have fine shadows. Therefore shall your daughters also become harlots, and your brides adulteresses. 14. Neither will I forbid it, if your daughters and your brides be defiled, and become harlots, because ye have worshipped with harlots, and sacrificed with harlots. For the foolish people will be beaten. 15. Wilt thou, O Israel, go to whoredom, lest Judah also be guilty? Go not to Gilgal, and come not up to Bethaven, and swear not, As the LORD liveth. 16. For Israel walketh as a mad heifer; so shall the LORD feed her as a lamb in the wilderness. 17. For Ephraim hath sat down with idols: let him go. 18. They have given themselves to revelry and whoredom: their lords delight in them, that they may bring shame. 19. The wind with his wings shall drive them bound, and shall be ashamed of their sacrifice. (Hosea) Chapter 5 Both kingdoms are threatened with God's just punishment for the sake of sin. 1. Hear now therefore, ye priests, and take heed, O house of Israel, and give ear, O house of the king: for there shall be a punishment upon you, which are a snare in Mizpeh, and a net stretched out in Tabor. 2. With slaughter they deepen in their going astray: therefore must I punish them all. 3. I know Ephraim well, and Israel is not hid from me: now Ephraim is a harlot, and Israel is unclean. 4. They think not to return unto their God: for they have a whoredom in their heart, and teach not of the Lord. 5. Therefore the pride of Israel shall be humbled before their face, and both Israel and Ephraim shall fall for their iniquity; Judah also shall fall with them. 6. Then shall they come with their flocks and with their herds to seek the LORD, but shall not find him: for he is turned away from them. 7. They despise the LORD, and beget strange children: therefore shall the new moon devour them with their inheritance. 8. Yea, blow ye trumpets at Gibeah; yea, sound ye the trumpet at Ramah; yea, cry unto Bethaven, Behind thee, Benjamin. 9. For Ephraim shall be a desolation in the day that I punish them. Before this I have faithfully warned the tribes of Israel. (Hosea) Chapter 6 God's punishment and chastening provokes repentance. 10. The princes of Judah are like unto them that draw the border: therefore will I pour out mine anger upon them as water. 11. Ephraim suffereth violence, and is afflicted; and it is meet for him: for he hath given himself to the commandment of men. 12. I am a moth to Ephraim, and a maggot to the house of Judah. 13. And when Ephraim felt his sickness, and Judah his wounds, Ephraim went to Assyria, and sent to the king of Jareb: but he could not heal you, nor heal your wounds. 14. For I am as a lion to Ephraim, and as a young lion to the house of Judah. I, I will rend them, and go away, and lead them away, and none can save them. 15. Again, I will go to my place, until they know their iniquity, and seek my face: and if it be evil in them, they shall seek me early: Ch. 6, v. 1. Come, let us return to the Lord. For he hath rent us, he will also heal us; he hath smitten us, he will also bind us up. 2. He maketh us alive after two days: he will raise us up the third day, that we may live before him. 3. Then shall we take heed, and be diligent to know the LORD. For he shall break forth as the beautiful dawn, and shall come upon us as the rain, as the rain that maketh the land wet. 4. How will I do both to thee, Ephraim? How will I do well unto thee, O Judah! For the mercy that I will shew you shall be as the dew of the morning, and as the dew that spreadeth early in the morning. 5. Therefore will I smite them by the prophets, and slay them by the words of my mouth, that thy judgment may come to light. 6. For I delight in love, and not in sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God, and not in burnt offering. 7. But they transgress the covenant, as Adam did; in this they despise me. 8. For Gilead is a city of idolatry and bloodshed, 9. And the priests and their company are as the stumblers, which lie in wait for the people, and choke them in the way that goeth to Shechem: for they do what they will. 10. I see in the house of Israel that I am afraid: for Ephraim hath fornicated, and Israel hath defiled himself. 11. But Judah shall yet have a harvest before her, when I shall turn the prison of my people. (Hosea) Chapter 7 Lamentation over Israel and proclamation of the deserved punishments. 1. If I will heal Israel, first find the sin of Ephraim, and the wickedness of Samaria, how they do idolatry. For though they be plagued with thieves among themselves, and with robbers by heart, 2. Yet will they not know that I perceive all their wickedness. But I see their wickedness, which they do in every place. 3. They put off the king by their wickedness, and the princes by their lies. 4. And they are all adulterers, as an oven which the baker heats when he hath kneaded it, and leaveneth and riseth the dough. 5. This day is the feast of our king, and the princes begin to be mad with wine: so he sendeth the scoffers unto him. 6. For their heart is in hot devotion, as an oven, when they sacrifice, and when they deceive the people: but their baker sleepeth all night, and in the morning he burneth brightly. 7. They are yet as hot with devotion as an oven. Though their judges be eaten up, and all their kings fall, yet there is none among them that calleth unto me. 8. Ephraim is mixed among the nations: Ephraim is like a cake that no man turneth over, 9. But strangers eat up his strength; yet will he not know it. He also hath gray hairs; yet will he not know it. 10. And the pride of Israel is humbled before their eyes: yet turn they not unto the LORD their God, neither inquire of him in all this. 11. For Ephraim is like a tempted dove, that will not perceive. Now they call Egypt, then they run to Assyria. 12. But as they go to and fro, I will cast my net over them, and will come down as the fowls of the air; I will punish them as one preacheth in their gathering. 13. Woe unto them that they depart from me! They must be destroyed, for they have turned away from me. I would have delivered them, if they had not taught lies against me. 14. Neither do they call upon me from their hearts, but they listen in their camps. They gather themselves together for the sake of grain and must, and disobey me. 15. I teach them, and strengthen their arm: but they think evil of me. 16. They are converted, but not aright; they are as a false bow: therefore their princes shall fall by the sword; their dread shall be a mockery in the land of Egypt. (Hosea) Chapter 8 The wicked and apostate shall be cut off. 1. Cry with a loud trumpet, saying, He cometh upon the house of the LORD as an eagle: because they have transgressed my covenant, and have turned aside from my law. 2. Then shall they cry unto me: Thou art my God; we know thee, O Israel. 3. Israel rejecteth that which is good: therefore the enemy must persecute them. 4. They make kings, but without me: they set princes, and I have no need to know. Out of their silver and gold they make idols, that they may soon be cut off. 5. Thy calf, Samaria, he hath cast out; mine anger is kindled against them; it cannot stand long; they must be punished. 6. For the calf is come out of Israel, and a workman hath made it, and cannot be God: therefore shall the calf of Samaria be consumed. 7. For they sow the wind, and reap the whirlwind: their seed shall not come up, neither shall their plant yield flour: though it yield, yet shall strangers eat it. 8. Israel shall be eaten up; the heathen shall deal with them as with an unworthy vessel, 9. Because they go up to Assyria like a wild beast astray. Ephraim giveth to the wooers, and giveth tribute to the heathen. 10. These same nations will I now gather upon them; they shall soon be weary of the burden of the king and of the princes. 11. For Ephraim hath made the altars to sin much: so shall the altars be made sin for him. 12. If I write unto him as much of my law, it shall be regarded as a strange doctrine. 13. Though they sacrifice much, and bring flesh, and eat it, yet the LORD hath no pleasure in it; but he will remember their iniquity, and make an atonement for their sins which turn to Egypt. 14. Israel forgetteth his Maker, and buildeth churches: so Judah maketh many strong cities: but I will send fire into his cities, and it shall devour his houses. (Hosea) Chapter 9 Severe punishments follow severe sins. 1. Thou shalt not rejoice, O Israel, nor glory as the heathen: for thou hast whored against thy God, to seek the wages of whoredoms, that all the threshingfloors may be full of corn. 2. Therefore the threshingfloors and the winepress shall not nourish thee, and the must shall fail thee. 3. And they shall not dwell in the land of the LORD: but Ephraim shall return into Egypt, and shall eat in Assyria, which is unclean, 4. There they cannot make a drink offering of wine unto the LORD, nor do any thing to please him. Their offering shall be as the bread of the afflicted, whereof all they that eat thereof shall be unclean: for their bread they eat for themselves, and shall not be brought into the house of the LORD. 5. What then will ye do in the seasons, and in the feasts of the LORD? 6. Behold, they must depart from before the destroyer! Egypt shall gather them, and Moph shall bury them. Nettles shall grow where their dear silver of idols stand, and thorns in their tents. 7. The time of visitation is come, the time of vengeance; Israel shall know it. The prophets are fools, and the fools are mad, because of thy great iniquity, and because of the great hostile idolatry. 8. The watchmen of Ephraim kept about my God: but now they are prophets, laying cords in all their ways through the hostile idolatry of the house of their God. 9. They corrupt too deeply, as in the days of Gibeah: therefore shall he remember their iniquity, and punish their sin. 10. I found Israel in the wilderness like grapes, and saw your fathers as the first figs of the fig tree: but afterward they went to Baal-peor, and vowed themselves to the vile idol, and became as abominable as their wooers. 11. Therefore the glory of Ephraim must fly away like a bird, that they should not bear, nor carry, nor conceive. 12. Though they bring up their children, yet will I make them without children, and they shall not be men. And woe unto them, when I am departed from them! 13. Ephraim, as I look upon it, is planted and comely as Tyre, but now she letteth out her children to the slayer. 14. Give unto them, O Lord. But what wilt thou give them? Give them barren bodies and dried-up breasts! 15. All their wickedness is done in Gilgal: there am I hostile unto them: and I will also cast them out of mine house for their wickedness, and will show them no more love: for all their princes are apostates. 16. Ephraim is smitten; their root is withered, that they can no more bring forth fruit. Though they bring forth, yet will I kill the fruit of their womb. 17. My God shall reject them, because they will not hear him, and shall go astray among the heathen. (Hosea) Chapter 10 Warning the Israelites of their doom. 1. Israel is a desolate vine; the fruit thereof is even so. As much fruit as he had, so many altars had he made. Where the land was best, there they made the most beautiful churches. 2. Her heart is divided: now shall she find her iniquity. Her altars shall be broken down, and her churches shall be desolate. 3. Then shall they say, We have no king: for we fear not the LORD: what then can the king do for us? 4. They sware in vain, and made a covenant: and such counsel greeted all the furrows of the field as gall. 5. The inhabitants of Samaria take care of the calves of Bethaven: for his people mourn for him, over whom his camarim used to rejoice because of his glory: for he is led away from them. 6. The calf is brought into Assyria, and is a present unto the king of Jareb. So Ephraim is disgraced, and Israel is disgraced with his nobles. 7. For the king of Samaria is gone as the foam of the water. 8. The high places of Aven are destroyed, because Israel hath sinned: thorns and briers grow upon their altars. And they shall say, O mountains, cover us; and ye hills, fall upon us. 9. Israel, thou hast sinned since the days of Gibeah, and they have continued in it: but let not the battle of Gibeah take them like unto it, which was done against the wicked men, 10. But I will chasten them according to my desire, and nations shall come together against them, when I shall punish them for their two sins. 11. Ephraim is like a calf, and is accustomed to be driven. I will ride upon his beautiful neck: I will ride Ephraim; Judah shall plow, and Jacob shall harrow. 12. Sow ye therefore righteousness, and reap love, and plow otherwise: for it is time to seek the LORD, until he come and rain righteousness upon you. 13. For ye plow evil, and reap iniquity, and eat the fruit of lies. 14. Because thou trustest in thy character, and in the multitude of thy mighty men, there shall be a tumult among thy people, and all thy strongholds shall be destroyed. As Salman destroyed the house of Arbeel in the time of the battle, when the mother fell to pieces over the children, 15. Likewise also shall it be unto you at Bethel, because of your great wickedness, that the king of Israel shall go down early in the morning. (Hosea) Chapter 11 Praise of divine mercy, shown to the ungrateful Israelites. 1. When Israel was young, I loved him, and called him; my son, out of Egypt. 2. But now when they are called, they turn away, and sacrifice unto Baalim, and burn incense unto images. 3. I took Ephraim by his arms, and led him: but they perceived not how I helped them. 4. I made them draw a human yoke, and walk in cords of love, and helped them to bear the yoke upon their necks, and gave them food, 5. That he return not again into the land of Egypt. So Assyria became their king, because they would not return. 6. Therefore shall the sword come upon their cities, and shall wear out their bars, and devour them, because of their nobleness. 7. My people are weary to turn unto me: and as one preacheth unto them, so none riseth up. 8. what shall I make of thee, Ephraim? Shall I protect thee, O Israel? Shall I not make thee an Adama, and make thee like Zeboim? But my heart is not of this mind; my mercy is too fervent, 9. That I will not do according to mine indignation, nor turn to destroy Ephraim: for I am God, and not a man, and am the Holy One among thee. But I will not come into the city. 10. Then shall men follow the LORD, and he shall roar as a lion: and when he shall roar, they that are toward the west shall be afraid. 11. And they also that are in Egypt shall be afraid like a bird, and they that are in the land of Assyria like doves: and I will put them in their houses, saith the LORD. (Hosea) Chapter 12 Exhortation to repentance. 1. There is falsehood against me in Ephraim, and false worship in the house of Israel. But Judah still holds fast to God and to the right holy service. 2. And Ephraim feedeth on the wind, and runneth after the east wind, and maketh more idolatry and mischief every day: they make a covenant with Assyria, and bring balm into Egypt. 3. Therefore the LORD will plead the cause of Judah, and will punish Jacob according to his character, and will recompense him according to his merit. 4. Yea, they say, he hath trodden under his brother in his mother's womb, and hath fought with God with all his might. 5. And he fought with the angel, and prevailed; for he wept, and besought him: for there he found him at Bethel, and there he spake unto us. 6. But the LORD is the God of hosts: the LORD is his name. 7. Turn therefore unto thy God, keep mercy and justice, and hope always in thy God. 8. But the merchant hath a false scale in his hand, and loveth to deceive. 9. For Ephraim saith, I am rich, I have enough; there shall no iniquity be found me in all my work that is sin. 10. But I, the LORD, am thy God out of the land of Egypt, and I that let thee dwell in the tabernacles, as they do in the seasons of the year, 11. And speak unto the prophets: and I am he that giveth much prophecy, and sheweth me by the prophets. 12. In Gilead is idolatry, and in Gilgal they sacrifice oxen in vain; and they have as many altars as there are almonds in the field. 13. And Jacob fled into the land of Syria: and Israel had to serve for a wife, for a wife he had to shew. 14. And afterward the LORD brought Israel out of Egypt by a prophet, and shepherded him by a prophet. 15. And now Ephraim hath provoked him to anger by their idols: therefore their blood shall come upon them, and the LORD shall recompense their reproach. (Hosea) Chapter 13 Sin brings corruption, Christ's victory brings life. 1. Because Ephraim taught terribly, he was exalted in Israel. Afterward they sinned through Baal, and were slain for it. 2. But now they make much more of their sins, and of their silver such images as they can devise, even idols, which are vain works of wrought iron. Neither do they preach of them, He that killeth calves, let him sacrifice men. 3. The same shall have the morning cloud, and the dew that falleth early, even as the chaff that is blown from the threshingfloor, and as the smoke from the wall of the fire. 4. And I am the LORD thy God, from the land of Egypt: and thou shalt know no other God but me, and no saviour without me. 5. For I took care of thee in the wilderness, in the dry land; 6. But because they are fed, and have enough, their heart is lifted up; therefore they forget me. 7. So will I be against them as a lion, and as a leopard in the way will I lie in wait for them. 8. I will meet them as a bear whose cubs are taken away, and will rend their hardened heart, and there will I devour them like a lion: the wild beasts shall tear them. 9. Israel, thou hast brought thyself into evil: for thy salvation is with me alone. 10. Where is thy king gone, to help thee in all thy cities? and thy judges, of whom thou hast said: Give me kings and princes? 11. Well, I gave thee a king in mine anger, and will take him away from thee in my wrath. 12. The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up, and her sin is kept. 13. For they shall be afflicted as a woman in childbirth: for they are careless children. The time shall come, that they shall not tarry for the mourning of the children. 14. But I will deliver them out of hell, and save them from death. Death, I will be a poison unto thee; Hell, I will be a pestilence unto thee! But consolation is hidden from mine eyes. 15. For he shall bring forth fruit between brethren. The east wind shall come, and the LORD shall come up out of the wilderness, and shall dry up her fountain, and dry up her spring, and shall spoil the treasure of all the precious vessels. Ch. 14. v. 1. Samaria shall be desolate, for they have disobeyed their God. They shall fall by the sword, and their young children shall be broken in pieces, and their pregnant women shall be torn in pieces. (Hosea) Chapter 14 God shows his mercy to the penitent. 2. Turn thou, O Israel, unto the LORD thy God: for thou art fallen because of thine iniquity. 3. Take these words with you, and turn unto the LORD, and say unto him, Forgive us all our sins, and do us good; and we will offer the fair of our lips. 4. Assyria shall not help us, neither shall we ride upon horses any more, neither shall we say any more unto the works of our hands: Ye are our God: but let the fatherless find grace in thee, 5. Then will I heal their cessation, gladly will I love them; then shall mine anger turn from them. 6. I will be to Israel as the dew, and he shall blossom as the rose; and his roots shall shoot forth as Lebanon, 7. And his branches shall spread forth, and he shall be as beautiful as an olive tree; and he shall give as good a smell as Lebanon. 8. And they shall sit again under his shadow. They shall feed on grain, and flourish like a vine; his memorial shall be like the wine of Lebanon. 9. Ephraim, what shall the idols be to me? I will hearken unto him, and lead him; I will be as a green fir tree: in me shall thy fruit be found. 10. Who is wise that understandeth these things, and prudent that knoweth them? For the ways of the LORD are right, and the righteous walk therein: but the transgressors fall therein. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Joel ^ Chapter 1 Proclamation of God's punishments concerning the Jews. 1. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Joel the son of Pethuel: 2. Hear this, ye elders, and consider, all the inhabitants of the land, whether these things were done in your days, or in the days of your fathers. 3. Tell your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children their seed, 4. To wit, What the caterpillars leave, that the locusts eat; and what the locusts leave, that the beetles eat; and what the beetles leave, that the fowls eat. 5. Awake, ye drunkards, and weep, and howl, all ye winebibbers, for the wine: for it is taken away from before your mouth. 6. For there cometh up into my land a mighty nation, and without number, having teeth like lions, and molars like lionesses. 7. The same hath laid waste my vineyard, and cut down my fig tree, and shewed it, and cast it down, that the branches thereof are white. 8. howl like a virgin who puts on sackcloth for her bridegroom! 9. For the meat offering and the drink offering are gone from the house of the LORD, and the priests the LORD'S servants mourn. 10. The field is desolate, and the ground miserable; the corn is corrupt, the wine miserable, and the oil miserable. 11. The husbandmen see miserably, and the husbandmen weep for the wheat and for the barley, that nothing can come of the harvest of the field. 12. The vine also is miserable, and the fig tree pitiful; and the pomegranate tree, and the palm tree, and the apple tree, and all the trees of the field are withered: for the joy of men is turned into mourning. 13. Gird yourselves, and lament, ye priests; howl, ye ministers of the altar; go in, and lie in sackcloth, ye ministers of my God. For it is both meat offering and drink offering gone from the house of your God. 14. Sanctify a fast; call the congregation together; gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land unto the house of the LORD your God, and cry unto the LORD. 15. O woe to the day! For the day of the LORD is at hand, and cometh as destruction from the Almighty. 16. And the meat shall be taken away from before our eyes, and joy and gladness from the house of our God. 17. The seed is rotten under the earth, the granaries are desolate, the barns are broken down: for the corn is corrupt. 18. O how the cattle groan! The oxen look piteous, for they have no pasture; and the sheep languish. 19. O LORD, I call upon thee: for the fire hath burned up the pastures of the wilderness, and the flame hath kindled all the trees of the field. 20. The wild beasts also cry unto thee: for the rivers of waters are dried up, and the fire hath burned up the pastures of the wilderness. (Joel) Chapter 2 Of true repentance, of Christ, and of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. 1. Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, shout in my holy mountain: tremble, all ye inhabitants of the land. For the day of the LORD cometh, and is at hand. 2. A dark day, a gloomy day, a cloudy day, a misty day, as the dawn spreadeth over the mountains; even a great and mighty nation, such as was not before, neither shall be henceforth for ever and ever. 3. Before him goeth a devouring fire, and after him a burning flame. The land before him is like a garden of pleasure, but after him like a desolate wilderness; and no man shall escape it. 4. they are fashioned like horses and run like riders. 5. Therefore they burst forth upon the top of the mountains, as the chariots rattle, and as a flame blaze in the straw, as a mighty people prepared for battle. 6. The nations shall be astonished at him: the faces of all shall be as the pots. 7. They shall run as giants, and climb the walls as warriors: every one shall go straight before him, and shall not fail. 8. No man shall mistake another, but every man shall go in his own order: and they shall break through the weapons, and shall not be wounded. 9. They shall ride about in the city, and run upon the wall, and enter into the houses, and come in at the windows like a thief. 10. Before him the land trembles, and the heavens shake: the sun and the moon are darkened, and the stars withdraw their light. 11. For the LORD will give up his thunder before his army: for his army is very great and mighty, which shall execute his command: for the day of the LORD is great and very terrible: who can bear it? 12. Thus saith the LORD; Turn ye unto me with all your heart with fasting, and with weeping, and with lamentation. 13. Rend your hearts, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God. For he is gracious, merciful, patient, and of great goodness, and soon repents of punishment. 14. Who knoweth it may repent him again, and leave him a blessing, to offer meat offering and drink offering unto the LORD your God? 15. Blow with the trumpets in Zion, sanctify a fast, call the congregation together. 16. Gather the people together, sanctify the congregation, gather the elders, bring the young children and the babes in multitude. Let the bridegroom go out of his chamber, and the bride out of her chamber. 17. Let the priests, the servants of the LORD, weep between the hall and the altar, and say, O LORD, spare thy people, and let not thine inheritance fail, that the heathen should reign over them. Why wilt thou cause the nations to say, Where is their God? 18. Then will the LORD be jealous for his land, and spare his people. 19. And the LORD shall answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn and wine and oil in abundance, and ye shall have enough of them; and I will not suffer you to be put to shame among the heathen any more. 20. And I will drive him from the north far from you, and cast him into a dry and desolate land, even his face toward the sea eastward, and his end toward the uttermost sea. He shall rot and stink: for he hath done great things. 21. Fear not, O land, but be glad and of good cheer: for the LORD also is able to do great things. 22. Fear not, ye beasts of the field: for the dwellings of the wilderness shall flourish, and the trees shall bring forth their fruit, and the fig trees and the vines shall yield their fruit. 23. And ye children of Zion, rejoice and be glad in the LORD your God, which giveth you teachers of righteousness, and sendeth you early rain and late rain, as before, 24. That the threshingfloors may be full of corn, and the winepresses have abundance of must and oil. 25. And I will recompense you the years that the locusts, and the beetles, and the caterpillars, which were my great host, which I sent among you, have eaten, 26. That ye may have enough to eat, and praise the name of the LORD your God, which hath done wonders among you: and my people shall be put to shame no more. 27. And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I the LORD am your God, and none more: and my people shall be put to shame no more. Ch. 3, v. 1. And after this I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. 2. And at the same time I will pour out my spirit upon both the servants and the handmaids. 3. And will shew wondrous signs in heaven and in earth, namely, blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke. 4. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the LORD come. 5. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved. For in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be salvation, as the LORD hath promised, even to the remnant whom the LORD shall call. (Joel) Chapter 3 Protection of the church against the enemies. 6. For, behold, in those days, and at that time, when I shall turn the prison of Judah and Jerusalem, 7. And I will gather all the heathen together, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat, and there will I make terms with them for my people, and for my inheritance Israel, which they have scattered among the heathen, and divided themselves into my land. 8. And have cast lots for my people, and have given the boys for meat, and have sold the maidens for wine, and have made them drunk. 9. And ye of Zor, and Zidon, and all the border of the Philistines, what have ye to do with me? Will ye defy me? If ye will defy me, I will speedily repay you upon your head, 10. Who have taken my silver and gold and my beautiful jewels, and have brought them into your churches, 11. For ye have also sold the children of Judah and the children of Jerusalem unto the Grecians, that ye might bring them far from their borders. 12. Behold, I will raise them up out of the place whither ye sold them, and will recompense you upon your head. 13. And I will sell your sons and your daughters again, by the children of Judah; and they shall sell them unto them that are in the kingdom of Arabia, a people of far countries: for the LORD hath spoken it. 14. Proclaim this among the heathen; sanctify a battle; stir up the mighty; let all the men of war come and go up. 15. Make your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears. Let the weak man speak: I am strong. 16. Make a flock, and come hither, all ye nations round about, and gather yourselves together. There shall the LORD put down thy mighty ones. 17. And the heathen shall arise, and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat: for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round about. 18. Strike the sickle, for the harvest is ripe; come down, for the winepress is full, and the winepress overflows; for their wickedness is great. 19. Here and there shall be multitudes in the valley of judgment: for the day of the LORD is near in the valley of judgment. 20. the sun and the moon will be darkened and the stars will restrain their light. 21. And the LORD shall roar out of Zion, and shall cause his voice to be heard out of Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth shall shake. But the LORD shall be a refuge unto his people, and a stronghold unto the children of Israel. 22. And ye shall know that I the LORD your God dwell in Zion in my holy mountain. Then shall Jerusalem be holy, and no stranger shall pass through her. 23. In that day shall the mountains run with sweet wine, and the hills shall flow with milk, and all the rivers of Judah shall run with water: and there shall go forth a fountain from the house of the LORD, and it shall water the river Sittim. 24. But Egypt shall be desolate, and Edom a desolate waste, because of the iniquity of the children of Judah, that they shed innocent blood in their land. 25. But Judah shall be inhabited for ever, and Jerusalem for ever. 26. And I will not leave their blood unavenged. And the LORD shall dwell in Zion. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Amos ^ Chapter 1 God's punishments are threatened to the neighbors of the Israelites. 1. This is it that Amos, which was among the shepherds of Thekoa, saw concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel, two years before the earthquake. 2. And he said, The LORD shall roar out of Zion, and shall cause his voice to be heard out of Jerusalem; and the pastures of the shepherds shall be desolate, and the top of Carmel shall wither. 3. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of Damascus will I not spare them; because they have beaten Gilead with the tines of iron, 4. But I will send a fire into the house of Hazael, and it shall consume the palaces of Benhadad. 5. And I will break the bars of Damascus, and cut off the inhabitants of the field of Aven, and him that holdeth the sceptre, out of the house of pleasure; and the people of Syria shall be carried away to Kir, saith the LORD. 6. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of Gase I will not spare them, because they have carried away captivity captive, and have driven them into the land of Edom, 7. But I will send a fire into the walls of Gaza, and it shall consume their palaces. 8. And I will cut off the inhabitants of Ashdod, and him that holdeth the sceptre, out of Ascalon; and I will turn mine hand against Acron, and all that remain of the Philistines shall perish, saith the LORD GOD. 9. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of the city of Zor will I not spare them, because they have carried away the captives into the land of Edom, and have not remembered the covenant of the brethren, 10. But I will send a fire into the walls of Zor, and it shall devour their palaces. 11. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of Edom will I not spare him, because he hath pursued his brother with the sword, and because he hath slain their with child, and because he is always torn in his wrath, and because he hath kept his fury for ever, 12. But I will send a fire unto Theman, and it shall consume the palaces of Bazrah. 13. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of the children of Ammon will I not spare them; because they have rent the pregnant women in Gilead, that they might continue their border, 14. But I will kindle a fire within the walls of Rabbah, and it shall consume their palaces, when they shall call in the time of battle, and when the weather shall come in the time of the storm. 15. Then shall their king be carried away captive with his princes, saith the LORD. Ch. 2, v. 1. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of Moab will I not spare them, because they have burned the bones of the king of Edom with ashes, 2. But I will send a fire into Moab, and it shall devour the palaces of Kirioth: and Moab shall die with tumult, and with shouting, and with the sound of the trumpet. 3. And I will cut off the judge from among them, and will slay all their princes with him, saith the LORD. (Amos) Chapter 2 Threat of God's punishments on the house of Judah and Israel. 4. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of Judah will I not spare him; because they have despised the law of the LORD, and have not kept his statutes, and have been led astray by their lies, which their fathers followed, 5. But I will send a fire into Judah, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem. 6. Thus saith the LORD; For three and four vices of Israel will I not spare them; because they sell the righteous for money, and the poor for a pair of shoes. 7. They tread the head of the poor in dung, and hinder the way of the miserable. It sleeps son and father with a harlot, that they may profane my holy name. 8. And at all the altars they feast upon the garments which are pledged, and they drink wine in the house of their gods of the things which are paid for. 9. Now I have destroyed the Amorite before them, which was as high as the cedars, and his strength as the oaks: and I destroyed the fruit thereof above, and the root thereof beneath. 10. Also I brought you up out of the land of Egypt, and led you forty years in the wilderness to possess the land of the Amorites, 11. And I have raised up prophets of your children, and Nazarites of your young men. Is it not so, ye children of Israel? saith the LORD. 12. So ye give wine to the Nazarites to drink, and command the prophets, saying, Ye shall not prophesy. 13. Behold, I will shew it among you, as a cart full of sheaves sheweth, 14. He that is swift shall not escape, neither shall he that is mighty be able, neither shall he that is mighty be able to save his life; 15. And the archers shall not stand, and he that runneth swiftly shall not escape, and he that rideth shall not save his life; 16. And he that is mightiest among the mighty shall flee away naked in that day, saith the LORD. (Amos) Chapter 3 Ingratitude of the Israelites must be punished. 1. Hear what the LORD saith unto you, O children of Israel, even unto all the families which I brought up out of the land of Egypt, saying: 2. Out of all the families of the earth have I known you only: therefore will I also punish you in all your iniquities. 3. Though two walk together, yet are they one among themselves? 4. Even a lion in the forest, when he hath no prey? Doth a young lion cry out of his den, that he hath caught something? 5. Doth a bird also fall into a snare upon the earth, where there is no fowler? Do you also pick up the rope from the earth, which has not yet caught anything? 6. Is there a trumpet blown in a city, that the people be not astonished at it? Is there any evil in the city, that the LORD will not do? 7. For the Lord GOD doeth nothing, but revealeth his secret unto the prophets his servants. 8. The lion roareth: who shall not fear? The LORD HEART speaks; who shall not prophesy? 9. Proclaim ye in the palaces of Ashdod, and in the palaces of the land of Egypt, saying, Gather yourselves together unto the mountains of Samaria, and see what a great clamour and iniquity is in them. 10. They regard not righteousness, saith the LORD; they gather treasures of iniquity and grossness into their palaces. 11. Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD; They shall besiege this land round about, and shall cut thee off from thy power, and spoil thy houses. 12. Thus saith the LORD; As a shepherd taketh out of the lion's mouth two knees, or the lobe of an ear; so shall the children of Israel be taken out, which dwell in Samaria, and have a bed in the corner, and a spoon in Damascus. 13. Hear and testify in the house of Jacob, saith the LORD GOD of hosts. 14. For in that day, when I shall visit the iniquity of Israel, I will visit the altars of Bethel, and will break off the horns of the altar, and they shall fall to the ground. 15. And I will smite both the winter house and the summer house: and the ivory houses shall perish, and many houses shall be destroyed, saith the LORD. (Amos) Chapter 4 Threat against the rulers of the people of Israel. 1. Hear this word, ye fat cows, which are in mount Samaria, and do wrong to the poor, and oppress the poor, and say unto your masters, Bring hither, and let us drink. 2. By his holiness hath the LORD LORD sworn, saying, Behold, the days come upon you, that they shall cast you out with fishes, and your seed with small fishes. 3. And shall go out unto the gaps, every one before him, and be cast away to Harmon, saith the LORD. 4. Come ye to Bethel, and cast out sins, and to Gilgal, that ye may do much of sinning; and bring your sacrifices in the morning, and your tithes the third day. 5. And burn incense of leaven for a sacrifice of peace offerings, and preach a freewill offering, and proclaim it: for so have ye pleasure, O children of Israel, saith the LORD GOD. 6. Therefore also have I given you idle teeth in all your cities, and want of bread in all your places. Ye have not yet turned unto me, saith the LORD. 7. Also I restrained the rain upon you, until there were yet three months to harvest: and I caused it to rain upon one city, and caused it not to rain upon another: one field was rained upon, and the other field, which was not rained upon, withered away. 8. And two or three cities went to one city to drink water, and could not find it enough. Ye have not yet turned unto me, saith the LORD. 9. I afflicted you with dry times, and with burnt grains: so also the caterpillars devoured all that grew in your gardens, and in your vineyards, and in your fig trees, and in your olive trees. Ye have not yet turned unto me, saith the LORD. 10. I sent pestilence among you, even as in Egypt; I slew your young men by the sword, and carried away your horses captive; I caused the stench of your camp to enter into your nostrils. Ye have not yet turned unto me, saith the LORD; 11. I have turned back some of you, as God turned back Sodom and Gomorrah; and ye were as a burning which is plucked out of the fire. Ye have not yet turned unto me, saith the LORD. 12. Therefore will I continue to do so unto thee, O Israel. Because I will do so unto thee, send thee, O Israel, and meet thy God. 13. For, behold, he it is that maketh the mountains, and maketh the wind, and teacheth a man speech. He maketh the dawn and the darkness; he treadeth upon the high places of the earth: his name is LORD God of hosts. (Amos) Chapter 5 Lament over the fall of Israel, enticing to repentance. 1. Hear ye, O house of Israel, this word: for I must make this lamentation over you: 2. The virgin of Israel is fallen, that she shall not rise again: she is cast down to the ground, and there is none to help her up. 3. For thus saith the LORD God, The city that goeth out a thousand shall have an hundred left; and the city that goeth out an hundred shall have ten left in the house of Israel. 4. Therefore thus saith the LORD unto the house of Israel, Seek me, and ye shall live. 5. Seek not Bethel, and come not to Gilgal, and pray not to Beersheba. For Gilgal shall be carried away captive, and Bethel shall become Bethaven. 6. Seek ye the LORD, and ye shall live; lest there be a fire in the house of Joseph, and it consume him, and there be none to quench it in Bethel, 7. Ye that turn justice into wormwood, and cast down righteousness to the ground. 8. He maketh the mother hen, and Orion; who maketh the morning out of darkness, and the day out of darkness; who calleth unto the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: his name is the LORD, 9. He that maketh a disturbance against the strong, and bringeth a disturbance upon the strong city. 10. But they grudge him that punisheth them in the gate, and have abhorred him that teacheth salvation. 11. Therefore because ye oppress the poor, and take the corn of them with great burdens, dwell not in the houses which ye have built of works, neither drink ye the wine which ye have planted in the fine vineyards. 12. For I know your transgressions, which are many, and your sins, which are great, how ye press the righteous, and take blood money, and oppress the poor in the gate. 13. Therefore the prudent man must keep silence at that time: for it is an evil time. 14. Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live; and the LORD God of hosts shall be with you, as ye boast. 15. Hate evil, and love good, and establish judgment in the gate: and the LORD God of hosts shall be gracious unto the remnant in Joseph. 16. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, the LORD; There shall be mourning in every street, and they shall say in every street, Woe! woe! And the husbandman shall be called to mourn, and to lament, he that is able to weep. 17. There shall be mourning in all the vineyards: for I will go among you, saith the LORD. 18. Woe unto them that desire the day of the LORD! What shall it do unto you? For the day of the LORD is darkness, and not light. 19. As when a man fleeth before a lion, and a bear meeteth him; and as when a man cometh into a house, and leaneth his hand against the wall, and a serpent stingeth him. 20. For the day of the LORD shall be dark, and not light; dark, and not light. 21. I am grief-stricken for your feasts, and despise them, and like not to smell in your congregation; 22. Though ye offer me burnt offerings and meat offerings, I have no pleasure in them: neither will I regard your meat offerings of peace offerings. 23. Put away from me the noise of thy songs: for I will not hear thy psaltery. 24. And justice shall be revealed as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream. 25. Have ye of the house of Israel offered me sacrifices and meat offerings in the wilderness forty years? yea, yea. 26. Ye bear Sichuth your king, and Chiun your image, the star of your gods, which ye made for yourselves. 27. Then will I send you away from hence beyond Damascus, saith the LORD, whose name is God of hosts. (Amos) Chapter 6 More distant threat of punishment because of the sins of Judah and Israel. 1. Woe unto the proud of Zion, and to them that trust in mount Samaria, who boast themselves the chief of the Gentiles, and walk in the house of Israel! 2. Go to Calne, and look thence unto Hemath the great city, and go down to Gath of the Philistines, which were better kingdoms than these, and whose border was greater than your border. 3. Ye that respect yourselves far from the evil day, and seek always the reign of iniquity. 4. And ye sleep upon beds of ivory, and have abundance in your beds: ye eat the lambs of the flock, and the fatted calves. 5. And play upon the psaltery, and make up songs unto you, as David did, 6. And drink wine of the vials, and anoint yourselves with balm, and care not for the hurt of Joseph. 7. Now therefore they shall be foremost among them that are carried away captives; and the feasting of the stocks shall cease. 8. For the LORD LORD hath sworn by his soul, saith the LORD God of hosts, I am displeased with the pride of Jacob, and I am displeased with their palaces; and I will deliver up the city also, and all that is therein. 9. And though ten men remain in one house, yet they shall die, 10. That every man's cousin and his uncle may take him, and bear his bones out of the house, and say unto him that is in the chambers of the house: Is there any more of them? And he shall answer, They are all gone. And he shall say, Be satisfied: for they would not that the name of the LORD should be remembered. 11. For, behold, the LORD hath commanded that the great houses should be smitten, that they should be smitten with breaches; and the small houses, that they should be smitten with breaches. 12. Who can run with horses, or plough with oxen upon the rocks? For ye turn righteousness into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into wormwood. 13. And take comfort in that which is nothing, saying, Are we not strong enough with our horns? 14. Therefore, behold, I will raise up a people against you of the house of Israel, saith the LORD God of hosts; and they shall afflict you from the place that goeth to Hemath unto the river of the wilderness. (Amos) Chapter 7 Amos, sued by Amazia, has three faces of future punishment. 1. The LORD God showed me a vision, and, behold, there stood a man making locusts at the beginning, when the grass was gathered up: and, behold, the grass was gathered up, after that the king had shorn his sheep. 2. And it came to pass, when they were about to eat up the herbage of the land, that I said, O Lord GOD, have mercy on me. Who shall restore Jacob? for he is little. 3. And the LORD repented, and said, Well, let it not be done. 4. The LORD God shewed me a vision, and, behold, the LORD God called the fire to punish with it; which was to devour a great deep, and it devoured part of it already. 5. And I said, O Lord GOD, let him go. Who shall restore Jacob? for he is little. 6. And the LORD repented, and the LORD said, Neither shall it be done. 7. And he shewed me this vision, and, behold, the LORD stood upon a wall, measured with a line of lead; and he had the line of lead in his hand. 8. And the LORD said unto me, What seest thou, Amos? And I said, A cord of lead. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I will draw a cord of lead through the midst of my people Israel, and will not fail them, 9. But the high places of Isaac shall be laid waste, and the churches of Israel shall be desolate: and I will make me a sword against the house of Jeroboam. 10. And Amaziah the priest of Bethel sent unto Jeroboam king of Israel, saying, Amos maketh a rebellion against thee in the house of Israel: the land cannot bear his words. 11. For thus saith Amos, Jeroboam shall die by the sword, and Israel shall be carried away captive out of his land. 12. And Amaziah said unto Amos, Thou seer, depart, and flee into the land of Judah, and eat bread there, and prophesy there. 13. And prophesy no more in Bethel: for it is the king's pen, and the king's house. 14. And Amos answered and said unto Amaziah, I am no prophet, neither am I the son of any prophet; but I am a shepherd of cows, which eat mulberries. 15. But the LORD took me from the flock, and said unto me, Go, prophesy unto my people Israel. 16. Hear therefore the word of the LORD. Thou sayest, Prophesy not against Israel, neither drip water against the house of Isaac. 17. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Thy wife shall become a harlot in the city, and thy sons and thy daughters shall fall by the sword, and thy field shall be divided by the cord: but thou shalt die in an unclean land, and Israel shall be driven out of his land. (Amos) Chapter 8 Of the fall of the house of Israel and of spiritual hunger. 1. The Lord GOD showed me a vision, and, behold, there was a basket of fruit. 2. And he said, What seest thou, Amos? And I answered, A basket of fruit. And the LORD said unto me, The end is come upon my people Israel; I will not fail them. 3. And the songs of the church shall be turned into weeping in that day, saith the Lord GOD; and there shall be many dead bodies in every place, which shall be carried away privily. 4. Hear this, ye that oppress the poor, and destroy the wretched of the land. 5. Saying, When shall the new moon come to an end, that we may sell corn, and the sabbath, that we may sell corn, and wring the ephah, and increase the sekel, and falsify the scales? 6. That we may bring among us the poor for money, and the needy for a pair of shoes, and sell chaff for corn? 7. The LORD hath sworn against the pride of Jacob, saying, What matter if I forget these works of theirs for ever? 8. Shall not the land shake for this cause, and all the inhabitants mourn? Yea, it shall overflow altogether, as with a water, and be carried away, and be flooded, as with the river in Egypt. 9. In that day, saith the LORD GOD, will I cause the sun to go down in the midday, and the land to be darkened in the daylight. 10. I will turn your feasts into mourning, and all your songs into lamentations; I will bring sackcloth upon every loin, and baldness upon every head; and I will make them mourning, as one mourneth for an unborn son; and they shall come to a miserable end. 11. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD GOD, that I will send a famine into the land, not a hunger for bread, or a thirst for water, but to hear the word of the LORD, 12. And they shall go to and fro, from sea to sea, from north to east, seeking the word of the LORD, and shall not find it. 13. In that day shall fair maidens and young men pine away for thirst, 14. Who now swear by the curse of Samaria, saying, As thy God liveth in Dan, as the wise woman liveth in Beersheba. For they shall fall, that they may not rise again. (Amos) Chapter 9 Prophecy of Christ and His Church. 1. I saw the LORD stand upon the altar, and he said, Strike the pommel, that the posts may shake. For their covetousness shall come upon their head, and shall slay their seed with the sword: none shall escape, nor any escape. 2. And if they go down to hell, my hand shall take them from thence: and if they go up to heaven, I will cast them down; 3. And though they hide themselves in the top of mount Carmel, yet will I seek them there, and bring them down: and though they hide themselves from mine eyes in the bottom of the sea, yet will I command the serpents to sting them there; 4. And if they go captive before their enemies, yet will I command the sword to slay them there. For I will keep mine eyes upon them for evil, and not for good. 5. For the LORD of hosts is such a one: when he toucheth a land, it melteth, and all the inhabitants thereof mourn, and it runneth over them as the waters, and is overflowed as with the river of Egypt. 6. He it is that buildeth his house in heaven, and maketh his tabernacle upon the earth: he calleth unto the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: he is called LORD. 7. Are not ye children of Israel like unto me as the Moors? saith the LORD. Have not I brought Israel out of the land of Egypt, and the Philistines out of Caphtor, and the Syrians out of Kir? 8. Behold, the eyes of the LORD God are upon a sinful kingdom, that I may utterly destroy it from the face of the earth, though I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob, saith the LORD. 9. But, behold, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all the nations, as one sifts with a sieve, and the grains shall not fall to the earth. 10. All the sinners among my people shall die by the sword, which say, Calamity shall not be so near, neither shall it meet with us. 11. In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down, and will fence the breaches thereof, and will raise up again that which is broken down, and will build it as it was before, 12. That they may possess the remnant of Edom, and the remnant of all the nations, upon whom my name shall be preached, saith the LORD that doeth these things. 13. Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that they shall till and reap at the same time, and they shall press and sow at the same time: and the mountains shall run with sweet wine, and all the hills shall be fruitful. 14. For I will turn the prison of my people Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink wine of them; and they shall make gardens, and eat fruit of them. 15. For I will plant them in their land, and they shall no more be cut off from their land, which I will give them, saith the LORD thy God. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Prophet Obadiah (Obadiah) ^ Of the punishment of Edom and the redemption of the Israelites. 1. This is the vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD of Edom; We have heard from the Lord, that a message is sent unto the heathen, saying, Come, and let us fight against them. 2. Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen, and greatly despised. 3. The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, because thou dwellest in the clefts of the rock, in thy high castles, saying in thine heart, Who shall thrust me down? 4. Though thou mount up as an eagle, and make thy nest among the stars, yet will I bring thee down from thence, saith the LORD. 5. If thieves or spoilers come upon thee by night, how shalt thou be destroyed! Yea, they shall steal enough: and when the vintners come upon thee, they shall not leave thee a gleaning. 6. How shall they search out Esau, and seek his treasures? 7. All thine own covenanters shall cast thee out of the land: they in whom thou trustest for comfort shall deceive thee, and overcome thee: they that eat thy bread shall betray thee before thou know it. 8. What is the matter? saith the LORD, I will destroy in that day the wise men of Edom, and the prudent men of the mount of Esau. 9. For thy mighty men of Theman shall be afraid, that they may all be cut off in the mount of Esau by the slaughter. 10. For the iniquity of thy brother Jacob. 11. In the day that thou stoodest against him, when the strangers carried away his host captive, and when the foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, thou wast as one of them. Therefore thou shalt be ashamed of all; thou shalt be cut off for ever. 12. Thou shalt no more take thy pleasure in thy brother in the time of his affliction, neither shalt thou rejoice over the children of Judah in the time of their mourning, neither shalt thou speak proudly with thy mouth in the time of their anguish. 13. Thou shalt not go in unto the gate of my people in the time of their mourning: thou shalt not see thy pleasure in their calamity in the time of their mourning: thou shalt not send against their host in the time of their mourning; 14. Thou shalt not stand in the way to slay his escaped: thou shalt not betray his remnant in the time of trouble. 15. For the day of the LORD is at hand upon all nations. As thou hast done, so shall it be done unto thee; and as thou hast earned, so shall it come upon thy head again. 16. For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink daily; yea, they shall drink it up, and swallow it up, as if it had never been there. 17. But in mount Zion there shall yet be saved some that shall be sanctuaries: and the house of Jacob shall possess the possession thereof. 18. And the house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, and the house of Esau straw. And they shall burn them, and consume them, that there be none left unto the house of Esau: for the LORD hath spoken it. 19. And they that are toward the south shall possess the mountains of Esau, and they that are in the south shall possess the Philistines: yea, they shall possess the field of Ephraim, and the field of Samaria; and Benjamin shall possess the mountains of Gilead. 20. And the exiles of this host of the children of Israel, which are among the Canaanites unto Zarpath, and the exiles of the city of Jerusalem, which are in Sepharad, shall possess the cities southward. 21. And saviours shall come up to mount Zion, to judge the mountain of Esau. So shall the kingdom of the LORD be. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Jonah ^ Chapter 1 Jonah's profession, disobedience and punishment. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the son of Amithai, saying: 2. Arise, go into the great city of Nineveh, and preach therein: for their wickedness is come up before me. 3. And Jonah arose, and fled from before the LORD, and would have gone to the sea, and came down to Japho. And when he found a ship going to sea, he gave ferry money, and entered into it, that he might go with them into the sea before the LORD. 4. And the LORD sent a great wind upon the sea, and there arose a great tempest in the sea, as if the ship were broken. 5. And the shipmen were afraid, and cried every man unto his God, and cast the vessels that were in the ship into the sea, that they might be lightened. But Jonah was gone down into the ship, and lay and slept. 6. And the master of the ship came unto him, and said unto him, Why sleepest thou? Arise, call upon thy God, if perhaps God would remember us, that we perish not. 7. And one said unto another: Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose sake we are so wicked. And as they were casting lots, Jonah was stricken. 8. And they said unto him, Tell us, why is it so evil with us? What is thy trade, and whence comest thou? Of what country art thou, and of what nation art thou? 9. And he said unto them: I am an Eberian, and I fear the LORD God of heaven, which made the sea and the dry land. 10. And the people were sore afraid, and said unto him, Why hast thou done this thing? For they knew that he fled from the presence of the LORD: for he had told them. 11. And they said unto him, What shall we do unto thee, that the sea may be still unto us? For the sea was boisterous. 12. And he said unto them: Take me, and cast me into the sea, and the sea shall be still unto you. For I know that such a great tempest cometh upon you for my sake. 13. And the people made haste to return to the land, but they could not; for the sea was rushing against them. 14. Then cried they unto the LORD, saying: O LORD, let us not perish for this man's soul, neither count us innocent of blood: for thou, O LORD, doest as it pleaseth thee. 15. And they took Jonah, and cast him into the sea. And the sea was still from his raging. 16. And the people greatly feared the LORD, and offered sacrifices and vows unto the LORD. Ch. 2, v. 1: But the Lord provided a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was in the body of the fish three days and three nights. (Jonah) Chapter 2 Jonah's prayer for deliverance. 2. And Jonah prayed moreover unto the LORD his God in the body of the fish. 3. And said: I cried unto the LORD in my anguish, and he answered me; I cried out of the belly of hell, and thou heardest my voice. 4. Thou castest me into the deep in the midst of the sea, and the floods compassed me about: all thy waves and thy billows went over me, 5. That I thought to be cast out of thine eyes, that I should see thy holy temple no more. 6. Waters compassed me about unto my life; the deep compassed me about; reeds covered my head. 7. I sank down to the bottom of the mountains: the earth had shut me up for ever. But thou hast brought my life out of destruction, O LORD my God! 8. When my soul was troubled with me, I remembered the LORD: and my prayer came unto thee into thy holy temple. 9. They that hold above vanity forsake their grace. 10. But I will offer with thanksgiving; I will pay my vows unto the LORD, because he hath helped me. 11. And the LORD spake unto the fish, and the fish spued out Jonah unto the land. (Jonah) Chapter 3 Jonah's fruitful sermon on repentance. 1. And the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the second time, saying: 2. Arise, go into the great city of Nineveh, and preach unto it the sermon which I say unto thee. 3. Then arose Jonah, and went to Nineveh, as the LORD had said. And Nineveh was a great city of God, three days' journey. 4. And when Jonah began to go in a day's journey into the city, he preached, saying, There are yet forty days, and Nineveh shall fall. 5. Then the people of Nineveh believed in GOD, and preached fasting, and put on sackcloth, both great and small. 6. And when this came before the king of Nineveh, he arose from his throne, and put off his purple, and put sackcloth about him, and sat down in ashes. 7. And he cried out and said unto Nineveh by the commandment of the king and of his mighty men, There shall no man nor beast, neither ox nor sheep, be tasted; neither shall they feed, nor drink water; 8. And they shall cover themselves with sackcloth, both man and beast, and cry fiercely unto God; and they shall turn every man from his wicked way, and from the iniquity of his hands. 9. Who knoweth that God will turn and repent, and turn from his fierce anger, that we perish not. 10. And when God saw their works, and they turned from their wicked ways, he repented him of the evil which he had spoken to do unto them, and did it not. (Jonah) Chapter 4 Jonah's impatience and resentment. 1. This grieved Jonah almost exceedingly, and he was wroth. 2. And he prayed unto the LORD, saying, O LORD, this is the thing that I said, while I was yet in my own country: therefore would I have preferred to flee to the sea: for I know that thou art gracious, and merciful, and longsuffering, and of great kindness, and hast repented of evil. 3. Take now therefore, O LORD, my soul from me: for I would rather be dead than live. 4. And the LORD said, Thinkest thou that thou art justly wroth? 5. And Jonah went out of the city, and sat on the east side of the city, and made himself a tent there; and there he sat down in the shadow, until he should see what should befall the city. 6. And God the LORD provided a gourd, which grew upon Jonah, to give shadow upon his head, and to deliver him out of his evil. And Jonah rejoiced greatly over the gourd. 7. But the LORD provided a worm in the morning, when the dawn was breaking; and it stung the gourd, and it withered. 8. And it came to pass, when the sun was risen, that God brought a scorching east wind, and the sun stung Jonah upon his head, and he was faint. Then he wished his soul dead, saying, "I would rather be dead than live! 9. And God said unto Jonah, Thinkest thou that thou art justly wroth because of the gourd? And he said, I am justly wroth even unto death. 10. And the LORD said, Thou art sorry for the gourd, because thou hast not wrought for it, neither hast thou reared it, which was born in one night, and perished in one night, 11. And I should not lament in Nineveh, that great city, wherein are more than an hundred and twenty thousand men, which know not the difference between right and left, and many beasts also? Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Prophet Micah (Micah) ^ Chapter 1 Devastation of Judah and Samaria for the sake of idolatry. 1. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Micaiah from Mareshah in the days of Jotham, Aliah, Jehizkiah, kings of Judah, which he saw concerning Samaria, and Jerusalem. 2. Hearken, all ye peoples, take heed, land, and all that is within! For God the LORD hath spoken unto you, even the LORD out of his holy temple! 3. For, behold, the LORD shall go forth out of his place, and shall come down, and tread upon the high places of the land, 4. And the mountains shall melt under him, and the valleys shall be rent, as wax melts before the fire, as the waters that flow beneath. 5. All this for the transgression of Jacob, and for the sin of the house of Israel. But what is the transgression of Jacob? Is it not Samaria? And what are the high places of Judah? Is it not Jerusalem? 6. And I will make Samaria a heap of stones in the field, which shall be laid round about the vineyards; and I will drag their stones into the valley, and break them down. 7. All their idols shall be broken, and all their whoredoms shall be burned with fire, and I will destroy all their images: for they are gathered of whoredoms, and shall be whoredoms again. 8. I shall mourn and howl over this; I shall go about bereft and naked; I shall mourn like the dragons, and grieve like the ostriches. 9. For there is no counsel in their plague, which shall come unto Judah, and shall reach unto the gates of my people unto Jerusalem. 10. Proclaim it not to Gath, neither let yourselves be heard to weep, but go into the mourning chamber, and sit down in the ashes. 11. Thou beautiful city shalt go with all shame. The inhabitant of Zaenan will not go out for the sake of the suffering of the next house. He will take it from you when he camps there. 12. The city that is afflicted cannot be comforted: for calamity shall come from the LORD, even unto the gate of Jerusalem. 13. Thou city of Lachish, harness the runners, and depart: for thou art the beginning of sin to the daughter of Zion, and in thee are found the transgressions of Israel. 14. Thou shalt give captives as well as Gath. The city of Achsib shall be lacking with the kings of Israel. 15. I will bring thee Mareshah the right heir: and the glory of Israel shall come unto Adullam. 16. Shave off thy hair, and go bald over thy tender children. Make thee as bald as an eagle: for they are led away captive from thee. (Micah) Chapter 2 The people's sin against the second tablet and threatened punishments. 1. Woe unto them that seek to do harm, and deal wickedly in their camp, that they may accomplish it early in the daylight, because they have power! 2. They pluck up the ground, and take the houses which they desire. So they do violence to every man's house, and to every man's inheritance. 3. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I remember evil against this generation, out of which ye shall not draw your necks, neither shall ye walk proudly: for it shall be an evil time. 4. And it shall come to pass in that day, that there shall be a saying of you, It is finished, they shall say, We are forsaken. My people's land is given to a foreign lord. When shall he restore unto us the fields which he hath taken from us? 5. Yea, ye shall have no part in the congregation of the LORD. 6. They say, Let no man cry: for such crying doth not befall us; we shall not be so put to shame. 7. The house of Jacob therefore comforteth themselves, saying, Thinkest thou that the spirit of the LORD is shortened? Will he do this? It is true, my words are good to the upright. 8. But my people are risen up as an enemy: for they spoil both the garment and the tunic of them that pass safely by, as well as of them that come out of war. 9. Ye drive the wives of my people out of their good houses, and always take my jewels from their young children. 10. Arise therefore; ye must depart; ye shall not abide here. For their uncleanness they must be rudely destroyed. 11. If I were a false spirit, and a preacher of lies, and preached how they should drink and revel, that would be a preacher unto this people. 12. And I will gather thee, O Jacob, altogether, and will gather the remnant of Israel together; and I will put them together as a flock into a strong stall, and as a herd into their folds; and the sound of men shall be heard. 13. And there shall come up a breaker before them; and they shall break through, and go out and come in at the gate: and their king shall go before them, and the LORD before him. (Micah) Chapter 3 Punishment of the heads in the secular and ecclesiastical state. 1. And I said, Hear now, ye heads of the house of Jacob, and ye princes of the house of Israel. Ye ought to be just, that know the right. 2. But ye hate that which is good, and love that which is evil: ye flay the skin of them, and the flesh of their legs. 3. And ye shall eat the flesh of my people: and when ye have flayed off their skin, ye shall break their legs also, and cut them as into a pot, and as meat into a caldron. 4. Therefore when ye shall cry unto the LORD, he will not hearken unto you, but will hide his face from you in that day, as ye have deserved with your wickedness. 5. Thus saith the LORD against the prophets that deceive my people: They preach that it shall be well where they are fed: but where they are not fed, they preach that war must come. 6. Therefore your vision shall become night, and your divination darkness. The sun shall go down upon the prophets, and the day shall be dark upon them. 7. And the showers shall be put to shame, and the diviners to scorn; and they shall all cover their mouths, because there shall be no word of God. 8. But I am full of the power and spirit of the LORD, of judgment and might, that I may shew Jacob his transgression, and Israel his sin. 9. Hear therefore this, ye heads of the house of Jacob, and ye princes of the house of Israel, which spurn justice, and pervert all that is upright, 10. Which build Zion with blood, and Jerusalem with iniquity. Their heads judge for gifts, their priests teach for wages, and their prophets prophesy for money, relying on the LORD, and saying: Is not the LORD among us? No evil can come upon us. 12. Therefore Zion shall be ploughed up as a field for your sakes, and Jerusalem shall become a heap of stones, and the mountain of the temple a wild height. (Micah) Chapter 4 Of Christ's kingdom; redemption from Babylonian captivity. 1. But in the last days the mountain whereon the house of the LORD standeth shall surely be higher than all mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills. 2. And the nations shall come running, and many nations shall go, saying, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways, and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD out of Jerusalem. 3. He shall judge among great nations, and shall punish many nations in far countries. They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks. No nation shall lift up a sword against another, neither shall they learn war any more. 4. Every man shall dwell under his vine and under his fig tree without fear: for the mouth of the LORD of hosts hath spoken it. 5. For every nation shall walk in the name of its God: but we shall walk in the name of the LORD our God for ever and ever. 6. In that day, saith the LORD, I will gather together the lame, and will gather together the rejecters, and them that I have afflicted. 7. And I will make the lame to have heirs, and the outcast to be a great nation: and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth even for ever. 8. And thou tower of Eder, a stronghold of the daughter of Zion, thy golden rose shall come, the former dominion, the kingdom of the daughter of Jerusalem. 9. Why then dost thou now cleave unto other friends? Is not the king with thee, and are all thy counsellors gone, that woe is come upon thee as one in childish distress? 10. Suffer thou this affliction, O daughter of Zion, and croak as one in childbearing: for thou shalt go out of the city, and dwell in the field, and come to Babylon. For thou shalt go out of the city, and dwell in the field, and come to Babylon: but thou shalt be delivered from thence. There the LORD will deliver you from your enemies. 11. For many nations shall be gathered together against thee, and shall say, She is banished: we will see our delight in Zion. 12. But they know not the thoughts of the LORD, neither perceive his counsel, because he hath gathered them together like sheaves in the threshingfloor. 13. Arise therefore, and thresh, thou daughter of Zion. For I will make thee horns of iron, and claws of brass; and thou shalt break in pieces many nations: and I will utterly destroy their goods unto the LORD, and their substance unto the ruler of the whole earth. 14. But now, thou warriors, prepare thyself. For they shall besiege us, and smite the judge of Israel with the rod upon the beacons. (Micah) Chapter 5 From Christ's birthplace. 1. And thou, Bethlehem Ephrathah, which art little among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall he come unto me that is Lord in Israel, which is from the beginning and from everlasting. 2. But he shall afflict them until the time that she that is to bear shall bear. Then shall the remnant of his brethren return unto the children of Israel. 3. And he shall appear and feed in the power of the LORD, and in the victory of the name of his God. And they shall dwell: for he shall be glorified in that day, as far as the world is. 4. For this also shall we have peace from Assyria, which is now fallen in our land, and hath trodden down our houses. For seven shepherds and eight princes shall be raised up against him, 5. Who destroy the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod with their bare weapons. So shall we be saved from Assyria, which hath fallen into our land, and hath trodden down our border. 6. The remnant also of Jacob shall be among many nations as the dew of the LORD, and as the droplets of the grass, waiting for no man, nor for men. 7. Yea, the remnant of Jacob shall be among the heathen of many nations, as a lion among the beasts of the forest, as a young lion among a flock of sheep, which no man can withstand, when he goeth through, treading and tearing. 8. For thine hand shall prevail against all thine enemies, and all thine enemies shall be cut off. 9. In that day, saith the LORD, will I put away thy horses from thee, and destroy thy chariots; 10. And I will cut off the cities of thy land, and break down all thy strongholds; 11. And I will cut off sorcerers from among thee, and there shall no diviner abide with thee. 12. I will cut off thy images and thy idols from thee, and thou shalt no more worship the work of thine hands, 13. And I will break up thy groves, and destroy thy cities. 14. And I will execute vengeance with fury and wrath upon all the heathen that will not obey. (Micah) Chapter 6 Of the sacrifices that please God. 1. Hear therefore what the LORD saith, Arise, and rebuke the mountains, and let the hills hear thy voice. 2. Hear, ye mountains, how the LORD will punish, and the strong foundations of the earth. For the LORD will rebuke his people, and will punish Israel. 3. What have I done unto thee, my people, and wherewith have I offended thee? Tell me. 4. For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee out of the house of bondage, and sent before thee Moses, and Aaron, and Miriam. 5. Now remember, my people, what Balak king of Moab purposed to do, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him, from Shittim even unto Gilgal: whereupon ye shall know how the LORD hath done you all good. 6. Wherewith shall I make atonement unto the LORD? With bowing down before the high God? Shall I make atonement for him with burnt offerings and calves of the year? 7. Thinkest thou that the LORD hath pleasure in many thousands of rams, or in oil, though it were innumerable rivers full? Or shall I give my first son for my transgression, or the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 8. It is told thee, O man, what is good, and what the LORD requireth of thee, to keep the word of God, and to love, and to be humble before thy God. 9. The voice of the LORD shall call upon the city: but he that feareth thy name shall prosper. Hear, ye tribes, what is preached. 10. There remaineth yet unrighteousness in the house of the wicked, and the lowly and hostile ephah. 11. Or shall I approve the unjust scales, and the false weight in the bag? 12. By whom their rich do much wrong? And their inhabitants deal in lies, and have false tongues in their throats. 13. Therefore will I also begin to afflict thee, and to make thee desolate for thy sin. 14. Thou shalt not have enough to eat, neither shalt thou faint. And that which thou hast received shall not pass away: and that which passeth away will I deliver to the sword. 15. Thou shalt sow, and not reap: thou shalt press oil, and not anoint thyself with it; and thou shalt press wine, and not drink wine. 16. For they have kept the way of Amri, and all the works of the house of Ahab, and have followed their counsel. Therefore will I make thee a desolation, and the inhabitants thereof, to be whistled at: and ye shall bear the reproach of my people. (Micah) Chapter 7 Few pious people are to be found. 1. Alas, I am as one that lieth down in the vineyard, when there are no grapes to eat, and yet would gladly have the best of the fruit. 2. The righteous are gone out of this land, and the just are no more among the people. They all lie in wait for blood: every one hunteth after another to destroy him, 3. And think they do well when they do evil. What the prince wills, the judge saith, that he may do him service again. The mighty counsel according to their wantonness to do harm, and turn it as they will. 4. The best of them is as a thorn, and the most upright as a hedge. But when the day of thy preachers shall come, when thou shalt be visited, then shall they not know from whence. 5. No one believes his neighbor, no one relies on princes! Keep the door of your mouth from her who sleeps in your arms! 6. For the son despiseth his father, the daughter setteth herself against her mother, the cord is against her husband's wife: and a man's enemies are his own household. 7. But I will look unto the LORD, and wait upon the God of my salvation: my God shall hear me. 8. Rejoice not, O mine enemy, that I am fallen down. I shall arise again. Though I sit in darkness, yet the LORD is my light. 9. I will bear the LORD'S wrath, because I have sinned against him, until he execute my cause, and do me justice. He shall bring me to the light, that I may see my delight in his mercy. 10. My enemy shall see it, and shall stand in all her shame, which saith unto me now, Where is the LORD thy God? My eyes shall see, and she shall be trodden down as dung in the street. 11. In that day thy walls shall be built, and the word of God shall go forth far. 12. And in that day shall they come unto thee from Assyria, and from strong cities, from strong cities unto the sea, from sea to sea, and from mountain to mountain. 13. For the land shall be desolate for the inhabitants thereof, for the fruit of their works. 14. And thou shalt feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine inheritance, which dwell in the forest by themselves, and in the field: let them feed in Bashan and in Gilead, as of old. 15. I will make them see wonders, as when they came out of the land of Egypt, 16. That the heathen may see, and all their mighty men be ashamed, and lay their hand upon their mouth, and stop their ears. 17. They shall lick dust like serpents, and tremble in their holes like the creeping things of the earth. They shall be afraid of the LORD our God, and shall be terrified of thee. 18. Where is such a God as thou art? who forgiveth sin, and remitteth iniquity unto the remnant of his inheritance; who keepeth not his wrath for ever: for he is merciful. 19. he will have mercy on us again, and will subdue our iniquity, and cast all our sins into the depth of the sea. 20. Thou wilt keep faith with Jacob, and grace with Abraham, as thou swarest unto our fathers before. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Nahum ^ Chapter 1 God's majesty against tyrants. 1. This is the burden of Nineveh, and the book of the prophecy of Nahum of Elkos. 2. The LORD is a zealous God, and a revenger; yea, a revenger is the LORD, and angry: the LORD is a revenger against his adversaries, and he will not forget his enemies. 3. The LORD is patient, and of great strength, before whom no man is innocent: he is the LORD whose ways are in the weather and in the storm, and under whose feet is thick dust, 4. Who hath chastened the sea, and made it dry, and dried up all the waters. Bashan and Carmel languish, and that which flourisheth in mount Lebanon languisheth. 5. The mountains shall tremble at his presence, and the hills shall melt: the earth shall shake at his presence, and the world, and all that dwell therein. 6. Who can stand before his wrath, and who can abide before his fury? His wrath burneth as fire, and the rocks cleave before him. 7. The LORD is good, and a strong hold in time of trouble, and knoweth them that trust in him. 8. When the flood overflows, he putteth an end to it: but his enemies he pursueeth with darkness. 9. What think ye against the LORD? He will make an end of it; the calamity will not come twice. 10. For as when the thorns, which are yet growing together, and are in the best of sap, are burned as dry straw, 11. So shall be the counsel that cometh from thee, and thinketh evil against the LORD. 12. Thus saith the LORD; They come armed and mighty as they will, but they shall be cut down, and go away. I have humbled thee; but I will not humble thee again. 13. Then will I break his yoke that thou bearest, and rend thy bands. 14. But against thee hath the LORD commanded, that the seed of thy name should no more remain. From the house of thy God will I cut thee off; the idols and graven images will I make thy grave: for thou art destroyed. Behold, upon the mountains come the feet of a good messenger preaching peace: Keep thy feast days, Judah, and pay thy vows. For the mischief shall no more come upon thee; it is utterly cut off. (Nahum) Chapter 2 Destruction of the city of Nineveh. 2. The destroyer shall come up against thee, and shall besiege the stronghold. But, yea, make ready the road, and nest thyself in the best, and strengthen thyself in the most mighty. 3. For the LORD will recompense the pride of Jacob, as he recompensed the pride of Israel: for the reckoners shall count them out, and the reckoners shall destroy them. 4. The shields of his mighty men are red; his host looketh like purple; his chariots shine like fire when he striketh; their spears quake. 5. The chariots roll in the streets, and rattle in the highways; they look like torches, and pass among themselves like lightnings. 6. And he shall remember his mighty men: but they shall fall where they go out, and shall haste to the wall, and to the screen, where they shall be safe. 7. But the gates of the waters shall be opened, and the palace shall go down. 8. The queen shall be led away captive: and her virgins shall groan as doves, and beat upon her breast. 9. For Nineveh is like a pool of water; but the same shall flow away. Stand, stand! (they will shout), but no one will turn back. 10. Rob ye now silver, rob ye gold. For here is no end of treasures, and the multitude of all precious gems. 11. But now she shall be purely picked and plundered, and her heart shall be troubled, and her knees shall shake, and her loins shall tremble, and her face shall look as pale as a pot. 12. Where then is the dwelling place of the lions, and the pasture of the young lions, when the lion and the lioness walked with the young lions, and no man was permitted to drive them out? 13. But the lion robbed enough for his young, and choked his lionesses; he filled his dens with spoil, and his habitation with that which he had torn. 14. Behold, I will be with thee, saith the LORD of hosts, and will burn thy chariots with smoke; and the sword shall devour thy young lions; and I will make an end of thy spoilings upon the earth, and thy messengers' voices shall be heard no more. (Nahum) Chapter 3 Sins of the City of Nineveh. Woe to the murderous city, which is full of lies and robbery, and will not cease from its robbery! 2. For then shall the scourges be heard to clatter, and the wheels to rattle, and the horses to cry, and the chariots to roll. 3. He bringeth up horsemen with shining swords, and with shining spears. There lie many slain, and great heaps of dead bodies, so that there is no number of them, and one must fall over their dead bodies. 4. All this for the sake of the great whoredom of the beautiful whore of love, which dealeth in sorcery, which by her whoredom hath bought the heathen, and by her sorcery the land and the people. 5. Behold, I am against thee, saith the LORD of hosts. I will uncover thy righteousness under thy face; and I will shew thy nakedness unto the heathen, and thy shame unto the kingdoms. 6. I will make thee all abominable, and will ravish thee, and make thee an abomination, 7. That all they which see thee should flee from thee, and say: Nineveh is desolate: who shall have compassion on her? and where shall I seek comfort for thee? 8. Thinkest thou that thou art better than the city of No of the rulers, which was by the waters, and had waters round about, whose walls and strong holds were the sea? 9. Moors and Egypt was their innumerable power, Put and Libya were thy help. 10. And she was driven out, and went away captive, and her children were slain in every street; and the lot was cast for her nobles, and all her mighty men were put in chains and fetters. 11. So shalt thou also be drunken, and hide thyself, and seek a stronghold from the enemy. 12. All thy strong cities are as fig trees with ripe figs, when they are shaken to fall into the mouth of him that will eat them. 13. Behold, thy people shall become women within thee, and the gates of thy land shall be opened unto thine enemies; and the fire shall devour thy bars. 14. Draw thee water, for thou shalt be besieged; improve thy strongholds; go into the clay, and tread the glue, and make strong bricks. 15. But the fire shall devour thee, and the sword shall slay thee: it shall devour thee as the beetle, it shall overtake thee as the beetle, it shall attack thee as the locust; 16. Thou hast more merchants than there are stars in heaven: but now they shall spread themselves out like beetles, and fly away. 17. Thy lords are as grasshoppers, and thy captains as beetles, which lie down by the fence in the cold days: but when the sun riseth, they are lifted up, and it is not known where they abide. 18. Thy shepherds shall sleep, O king of Assyria; thy mighty men shall lie down; thy people shall be scattered upon the mountains, and none shall gather them together. 19. No man shall mourn for thy hurt, nor be grieved for thy plague: but all they that hear these things of thee shall clap their hands at thee. For upon whom hath not thy wickedness passed without ceasing? Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Habakkuk (Habakkuk) ^ Chapter 1 Invasion of the Chaldeans against Judah. 1. This is the burden which the prophet Habakkuk saw. 2. O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear? How long shall I cry unto thee for iniquity, and thou wilt not help? 3. Why hast thou made me to see toil and labour? Why showest thou me robbery and iniquity? There is violence above justice. 4. Wherefore things go not at all but right, and no right thing can be gained: for the wicked overreaches the righteous, and therefore wrong judgments go. 5. Look ye among the heathen, and see, and marvel: for I will do a thing in your days, which ye shall not believe, when it shall be spoken of. 6. For, behold, I will raise up the Chaldeans, a bitter and quick people, which shall go as far as the land, to possess dwellings that are not theirs, 7. And shall be cruel and terrible, which shall command and compel as it pleaseth. 8. Their horses are swifter than the horses of the parade; and they are more biting than the wolves of the evening. Their horsemen go forth from afar in great multitudes, as if they flew, as the eagles hasten to the carrion. 9. They come all of them to do harm: whithersoever they go they tear through like an east wind, and shall gather captives together like the sand. 10. They shall mock at kings, and laugh at princes. All fortresses shall be a jest unto them: for they shall make rubble, and yet gain them. 11. Then shall they take courage again, and shall go on and sin: then must their victory be of their God. 12. But thou, O LORD my God, my Holy One, who art from everlasting, let us not die, but let them be to us, O LORD, only a punishment, and let them, O our refuge, only chasten us! 13. Thine eyes are pure, that thou canst not see evil; and thou canst not look upon the affliction. Why then dost thou look upon the scornful, and holdest thy peace? for the wicked devoureth him that is more pious than he, 14. And let men go as fishes in the sea, as creeping things that have no master? 15. They draw it all with their hempen, and haul it with their net, and gather it with their yarn: they rejoice and are glad. 16. Therefore they sacrifice unto their nets, and burn incense unto their yarn; because by them their portion is made fat, and their meat is made whole. 17. Therefore they cast their net still, and will not cease to strangle men. (Habakkuk) Chapter 2 God's promises and truth. Faith makes righteous. 1. Here I stand upon my guard, and tread upon my stronghold, and watch and see what shall be said unto me, and what I shall answer him that reproacheth me. 2. But the LORD answereth me, and saith, Write the vision, and paint it upon a tablet, that whosoever passeth by may read it: 3. The prophecy shall yet be fulfilled in his time; and it shall come to pass, and shall not be left without. But if it be consumed, wait for it: it shall surely come, and shall not fail. 4. Behold, he that is stiffnecked shall have no rest in his heart: for the righteous liveth by faith. (Habakkuk) Chapter 3 Of the fall of the Babylonians. 5. But wine deceiveth the proud man, that he cannot abide, which openeth his soul like hell, and is even as death, which cannot be satisfied, but gathereth unto himself all nations, and gathereth unto himself all people. 6. But what is the matter? All these shall make a saying of him, and a fable, and a proverb, saying, Woe to him that multiplieth his substance with other men's substance! How long shall it last? and he shall bring much mire upon himself. 7. O how suddenly they that bite thee shall awake, and they that push thee away shall awake! And thou must come to them. 8. For thou hast spoiled many nations; and all the remnant of the people shall spoil thee again for the blood of men, and for the iniquity of the land, and of the city, and of all that dwell therein. 9. Woe unto him that maketh his house a calamity, that he may set his nest on high, that he may escape calamity! 10. But thy counsel shall be unto the reproach of thine house: for thou hast broken down too many nations, and hast sinned with all wilfulness. 11. For even the stones of the wall shall cry out, and the beams of the bars shall answer them. 12. Woe unto him that buildeth the city with blood, and that destroyeth the city with iniquity! 13. Is it not so, that it shall come to pass from the LORD of hosts? That which the nations have wrought for thee shall be burned with fire, and that which the people are weary of shall be lost. 14. For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters that cover the sea. 15. Woe unto thee, that pour out thy cup unto thy neighbour, and mix thine anger therewith, and make him drunken, that thou mayest see his shame! 16. Thou shalt also be filled with shame for glory. Now therefore drink thou also, that thou mayest stagger: for the cup that is in the right hand of the LORD shall compass thee about, and thou shalt spit shamefully for thy glory. 17. For the iniquity that is committed in Lebanon shall overtake thee, and the beasts that are destroyed shall terrify thee, because of the blood of men, and because of the iniquity that is committed in the land, and in the city, and against all that dwell therein. 18. What then shall the image profit, which his master hath formed, and the false cast image, wherein his master trusted, that he made dumb idols? 19. Woe unto him that saith unto the wood, Awake! and unto the dumb stone, Arise! How shall it teach? Behold, it is overlaid with gold and silver, and there is no breath in it. 20. But the LORD is in his holy temple. Let all the earth be silent before him! (Habakkuk) Chapter 4 Prayer to God for the preservation of His people. Ch. 3, v. 1. This is the prayer of the prophet Habakkuk for the innocent: 2. O Lord, I have heard thy rumour, and am astonished. O Lord, thou makest thy work alive in the midst of the years, and makest it known in the midst of the years. When tribulation cometh, thou rememberest mercy. 3. God came from the midday, and the Holy One from Mount Paran. Sela. The heavens were full of His praise, and the earth was full of His glory. 4. His brightness was as light; shinings were from his hands; there was his power secretly. 5. Before him went pestilence, and plague went out whithersoever he went. 6. He stood and measured the land, and looked, and divided the nations: and the mountains of the world were broken in pieces, and the hills of the world stooped down, when he walked in the world. 7. I saw the tents of the Moors in trouble, and the tents of the Midianites in distress. 8. Were not thou wroth, O LORD, in the flood, and thy wrath in the waters, and thy anger in the sea, when thou rodeest upon thy horses, and thy chariots prevailed? 9. Thou hast drawn forth the bow, as thou swarest unto the tribes, Shelah, and hast divided the rivers into the land. 10. The mountains saw thee, and they were afraid: the river went down, the deep was heard, the high places lifted up their hands. 11. The sun and the moon stood still. Thine arrows passed with shining, and thy spears with glances of lightning. 12. Thou hast trodden down the land in wrath, and thou hast crushed the heathen in fury. 13. Thou wentest forth to help thy people, to help thine anointed. Thou didst bruise the head of the house of the wicked; Thou didst uncover the foundation unto the neck. Sela. 14. Thou wouldest curse the sceptre of the head, and the spots thereof, which come as the weather to scatter me, and rejoice as they devour the wretched in hiding. 15. your horses walk in the sea, in the mud of great water. 16. When I hear these things, my belly is troubled, my lips tremble with the cry; pus cometh into my bones; I am troubled with myself. O that I might rest in the time of trouble, When we go up to the people that dispute with us! 17. For the fig tree shall not flourish, neither shall there be any increase in the vines; the work of the olive tree shall fail, and the fields shall yield no food; and the sheep shall be plucked out of the folds, and there shall be no oxen in the stalls. 18. But I will rejoice in the LORD, and be glad in GOD my salvation. 19. For the LORD GOD is my strength, and shall make my feet as the feet of a deer, and shall lead me on high to sing with my strings. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Prophet Zephaniah (Zephaniah) ^ Chapter 1 Of the fall of the kingdom of Judah. 1. This is the word of the LORD, which came unto Zephaniah the son of Chushiah, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah: 2. I will take all out of the land, saith the LORD. 3. And I will take away both man and beast, both the fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea, and the offenders, and the wicked: yea, I will purge the people out of the land, saith the LORD. 4. I will stretch out my hand upon Judah, and upon all that dwell in Jerusalem; and I will purge out the remnant of Baal, and the name of the camarim, and the priests of this place. 5. And they that worship the host on the housetops of heaven, who worship it, and swear by the LORD, and by Malchom, 6. And they that fall away from the LORD, and ask nothing of the LORD, and esteem him not. 7. Be still before the LORD GOD: for the day of the LORD is at hand. For the LORD hath prepared a sacrifice, and hath invited his guests unto it. 8. And in the day of the LORD'S sacrifice I will visit the princes, and the king's children, and all that ask a strange garment. 9. And in that day will I punish them that leap over the threshold, that fill their masters' houses with spoil and deceit. 10. In that day, saith the LORD, there shall be a shout from the fish gate, and a howling from the other gate, and a great lamentation in the hills. 11. Hay ye that dwell in the mill. For all the merchants are gone, and all that gather money are cut off. 12. In that day will I search Jerusalem with lanterns, and will visit the people that lie on their heels, and say in their hearts, The LORD will do neither good nor evil. 13. And their goods shall become a spoil, and their houses a desolation. They shall build houses, and not dwell therein: they shall plant vineyards, and not drink wine of them. 14. For the great day of the LORD is at hand; it is near, and hasteth greatly. When the cry of the day of the LORD shall come, then shall the mighty cry bitterly. 15. For this day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and anguish, a day of weather and tempest, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and fog, 16. A day of trumpets and trumpets against the strong cities and high castles. 17. I will make men afraid, that they may go about as the blind, because they have sinned against the LORD. Their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their bodies as dung. 18. Their silver and their gold shall not deliver them in the day of the LORD'S wrath: but all the land shall be consumed in the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make a sudden end of all them that dwell in the land. (Zephaniah) Chapter 2 Exhortation to repentance. Punishment of the neighboring nations. 1. Gather yourselves together, and come hither, ye hostile people, 2. Before the judgment go forth, that ye perish as the chaff of the day, before the fierce wrath of the LORD come upon you, before the day of the LORD'S wrath come upon you. Seek ye the LORD, all ye wretched of the earth, that keep his statutes. Seek righteousness, seek humility, that ye may be hid in the day of the LORD'S wrath. 4. For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ascalon shall be desolate; Ashdod shall be driven out in the south, and Acaron shall be rooted up. 5. Woe to them that dwell by the sea, to the warriors! The word of the LORD shall come upon you. Thou, Canaan, the land of the Philistines, I will destroy thee, and none shall dwell there. 6. There shall be shepherds' houses and flocks of sheep by the sea. 7. And the same shall be to the remnant of the house of Judah, that they may feed thereon. And in the evening they shall lie down in the houses of Ascalon, when the LORD their God hath visited them again, and turned their captivity. 8. I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the blasphemy of the children of Ammon, to reproach my people, and to boast in their borders. 9. Therefore, as I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Moab shall become as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrha; yea, as a nettle bush, and a salt pit, and a perpetual desolation. The remnant of my people shall rob them, and the remnant of my people shall inherit them. 10. This shall be a reward unto them for their pride, because they have reproached the people of the LORD of hosts, and have boasted. 11. Terrible shall the LORD be upon them: for he shall destroy all the gods of the earth. And all the isles of the Gentiles shall worship him, every one in his place. 12. Ye also shall be slain with my sword; 13. And he shall stretch out his hand upon the north, and destroy Assyria. Nineveh shall he make desolate, barren as a wilderness, 14. And in it shall lodge all manner of beasts among the heathen: bitterns also and hedgehogs shall dwell in their towers, and shall sing in the windows, and the ravens in the beams: for the cedar boards shall be taken down. 15. This is the joyful city, which dwelt so securely, saying in her heart, It is I, and none more! How is it become desolate, that beasts dwell therein! And they that pass by whistle at it, and wave their hand over it. (Zephaniah) Chapter 3 Lament and threat against the disobedient Jerusalem. Comfort of the faithful in the Messiah. 1. woe to the vile, foul, tyrannical city! 2. She will not obey, nor be disciplined; she will not trust in the LORD, nor cleave unto her God. 3. Their princes are lions roaring among them, and their judges are wolves in the evening, leaving nothing until the morning. 4. Their prophets are reckless and scornful. Their priests profane the sanctuary and interpret the law sacrilegiously. 5. But the LORD that is among them teacheth right, and doeth no evil. He teacheth all the mornings his statutes openly, and desisteth not: but the wicked men will not learn to be ashamed. 6. Therefore will I cut off these people, and will make their castles desolate, and will make their streets empty, that no man shall walk therein: and their cities shall be destroyed, and there shall be no man there. 7. And I said unto thee, Fear me, and be thou chastened; and their habitation shall not be cut off, neither shall it come to pass, that I may visit them. But they are diligent to do all manner of wickedness. 8. Therefore again, saith the LORD, ye also must wait upon me, until I arise in his day, when I also will judge, and gather the nations together, and bring the kingdoms in multitude, to pour out my wrath upon them, even all the wrath of my fury. For all the earth shall be consumed by the fire of my zeal. 9. Then will I preach otherwise unto the nations with kind lips, that they all may call upon the name of the LORD, and serve him with one accord. 10. They shall bring me my worshippers, even the scattered ones from beyond the waters of the land of the Moors, for a present. 11. In that day thou shalt no more be ashamed of all thy doings, because thou hast transgressed against me: for I will put away the proud saints from thee, and thou shalt no more exalt thyself because of my holy mountain. 12. I will leave in thee a poor and few people: they shall trust in the name of the LORD. 13. The remnant of Israel shall do no evil, nor speak falsely; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: but they shall feed and rest, without all fear. 14. Rejoice, O daughter of Zion! Shout, Israel! Rejoice and be glad with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! 15. For the LORD hath taken away thy punishment, and hath turned away thine enemies. The LORD king of Israel is with thee, that thou shalt fear no evil. 16. And it shall be said in that day unto Jerusalem, Fear not: and unto Zion, Let not thine hands be loosed. 17. For the LORD thy God is with thee, a strong Saviour: he will rejoice over thee, and be kind unto thee, and forgive thee, and will be glad over thee with sound. 18. I will remove them that were oppressed with statutes, and they shall come out of thee, whose statutes were their burden, whereof they were reproached. 19. Behold, I will deal with all them that offend thee in that day; and I will help the limping, and gather the outcast; and I will make them to be praised and honoured in all countries where they are despised. 20. In that day will I bring you in, and gather you together in that day. For I will make you to be praised and honoured among all the nations of the earth, when I shall turn away your prison from before your eyes, saith the LORD. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Haggai ^ Chapter 1 Sermon against the negligence in the promotion of the temple building: 1. In the second year of Darius the king, in the sixth month, in the first day of the month, came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet unto Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, prince of Judah, and unto Joshua the son of Jehozadak, high priest, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; This people saith, The time is not yet come to build the house of the LORD. 3. And the word of the LORD came by the prophet Haggai: 4. But your days are come, that ye should dwell in houses of wood, and this house should stand desolate? 5. Now therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; See how ye fare. 6. Ye sow much, and bring in little; ye eat, and are not satisfied; ye drink, and are not drunken; ye clothe yourselves, and cannot warm yourselves; and he that earneth money putteth it into a bag full of holes. 7. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; See how ye fare. 8. Go up into the mountains, and cut wood, and build the house: it shall be acceptable unto me, and I will shew mine honour, saith the LORD. 9. For ye wait for much, and, behold, it is little: and though ye bring it home, yet will I destroy it. Wherefore saith the LORD of hosts? Because my house is desolate, and every man hasteth to his own house. 10. Therefore the heaven hath restrained the dew upon you, and the earth her increase. 11. And I have called for drought, both upon land, and upon mountains, and upon corn, and upon wine, and upon oil, and upon all that cometh out of the earth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the work of the hands. 12. Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the LORD their God, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him: and the people feared the LORD. 13. Then said Haggai the angel of the LORD, which had the message of the LORD unto the people, I am with you, saith the LORD. 14. And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, ruler of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Jehozadak the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people, that they should come and work in the house of the LORD of hosts their God. (Haggai) Chapter 2 Prophecy of the glory of the other temple because of the future of the Messiah. 1. On the twenty-fourth day of the sixth month, in the second year of Darius the king, 2. On the twenty-first day of the seventh month came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet, saying: 3. Speak unto Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, the prince of Judah, and unto Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and unto the remnant of the people, saying: 4. Who is left among you that hath seen this house in the former glory? And how look ye now upon it? Is it not so, that ye think it to be nothing? 5. And now, Zerubbabel, be of good cheer, saith the LORD; be of good cheer, Joshua, thou son of Jehozadak, thou high priest; be of good cheer, all the people of the land, saith the LORD, and work. For I am with you, saith the LORD of hosts. 6. According to the word that I made a covenant with you, when ye came out of Egypt, my spirit shall dwell among you. Fear not! 7. For thus saith the LORD of hosts; There is yet a little while, that I will move heaven and earth, and the sea and the dry land. 8.Yea, I will move all nations. Then shall come the consolation of all the nations. And I will make this house full of glory, saith the LORD of hosts. 9. For mine is both silver and gold, saith the LORD of hosts. 10. The glory of this latter house shall be greater than that of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and I will give peace in this place, saith the LORD of hosts. 11. And it came to pass on the four and twentieth day of the ninth month, in the year of Darius, that the word of the LORD came unto Haggai the prophet, saying: 12. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Ask the priests of the law, and say: 13. If a man bear holy flesh in the sheath of his garment, and afterward touch with his sheath bread, or vegetables, or wine, or oil, or any manner of meat, shall it be holy? And the priests answered and said: No. 14. And Haggai said, If a man that is unclean touch any of the touched of these, shall it also be unclean? And the priests answered and said: It shall be unclean. 15. And Haggai answered and said, So are this people, and so are these men before me, saith the LORD; and all the work of their dogs, and that which they offer, is unclean. 16. And now behold how it hath been unto you from this day forward, and before that stone was laid upon stone in the temple of the LORD: 17. That when a man came to the heap of corn, which should have had twenty measures, there were scarce ten: and when he came to the winepress, and thought to draw fifty pails, there were scarcely twenty. 18. For I have afflicted you with drought, and with burning corn, and with hail, in all your labour: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD. 19. Watch ye therefore from this day and before, even from the four and twentieth day of the ninth month even unto the day that the temple of the LORD is founded, watch ye. 20. For the seed is yet in the barn, and beareth not yet any thing, neither vines, nor fig trees, nor pomegranates, nor olive trees: but from this day I will give blessing. 21. And the word of the LORD came again unto Haggai in the four and twentieth day of the month, saying: 22. Speak unto Zerubbabel the prince of Judah, saying, I will move heaven and earth. 23. And I will turn back the stalls of the kingdoms, and destroy the mighty kingdoms of the heathen, and will turn back both chariots with their riders; and both horse and man shall fall down, every man by his sword. 24. In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, thou son of Shealtiel, my servant, saith the LORD; and I will keep thee as a signet ring: for I have chosen thee, saith the LORD of hosts. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Prophet Zechariah (Zechariah) ^ Chapter 1 Exhortation to repentance and godliness, confirmed with two faces. 1. In the eighth month of the second year of Darius the king, came this word of the LORD unto Zechariah the son of Berechiah the son of Iddo the prophet, saying: 2. The LORD was wroth with your fathers. 3. And say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Turn ye unto me, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. 4. Be not ye as your fathers, to whom the former prophets preached, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Turn ye from your wicked ways, and from your evil doings. But they hearkened not, neither hearkened unto me, saith the LORD. 5. Where then are your fathers, and the prophets? Are they still alive? 6. Is it not so, that my words and my judgments, which I commanded by my servants the prophets, came upon your fathers, that they turned and said, As the LORD of hosts purposed to do unto us, after that we went and did, so hath he done unto us? 7. In the four and twentieth day of the eleventh month, which is the moon of Zebath, in the second year of Darius the king, came the word of the LORD unto Zechariah the son of Berechiah the son of Iddo the prophet, saying: 8. I looked by night, and, behold, a man sat upon a red horse, and he stopped among the myrtles in the meadow; and behind him were red horses, and brown horses, and white horses. 9. And I said, My lord, who are these? And the angel that talked with me said unto me, I will shew thee who these are. 10. And the man that kept among the myrtles answered and said, These are they whom the LORD hath sent to pass through the land. 11. And they answered the angel of the LORD that kept among the myrtles, and said: We have passed through the land; and, behold, all the countries sit still. 12. And the angel of the LORD answered and said, O LORD of hosts, how long wilt thou not have mercy on Jerusalem, and on the cities of Judah, against which thou hast been wroth these seventy years? 13. And the LORD answered the angel that talked with me with words of kindness and comfort. 14. And the angel that talked with me said unto me, Preach, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I have been very jealous over Jerusalem and over Zion; 15. But I am very wroth with the proud Gentiles: for I was but a little wroth, but they help to destruction. 16. Therefore thus saith the LORD; I will return unto Jerusalem with mercy, and my house shall be built therein, saith the LORD of hosts; and the cord shall be drawn in Jerusalem. 17. And preach again, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall be well with my cities again; and the LORD will comfort Zion again, and will choose Jerusalem again. 18. And I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there were four horns. 19. And I spake unto the angel that talked with me: Who are these? And he said unto me, They are the horns which have scattered Judah with Israel and Jerusalem. 20. And the LORD showed me many smiths. 21. And I said, What will they do? And he said, The horns that scattered Judah, that no man might lift up his head to scatter them, are these come to cast off the horns of the heathen, which have lifted up the horn over the land of Judah to scatter it. (Zechariah) Chapter 2 Of the protection of the spiritual Jerusalem and of the calling of the Gentiles. 1. And I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, a man had a measuring line in his hand. 2. And I said, Whither goest thou? And he said unto me, That I may measure Jerusalem, and see how long and how broad she shall be. 3. And, behold, the angel that talked with me went out. And another angel went out to meet him 4. And said unto him, Run, tell this lad, and say, Jerusalem shall be inhabited without walls, because of the multitude of men and cattle that shall be therein. 5. And I will be, saith the LORD, a wall of fire round about, and will be within, and will be glorious within. 6. Whoo! whoo! Flee from the midnight land, saith the LORD; for I have scattered you to the four winds under heaven, saith the LORD. 7. Hie, Zion, thou that dwellest with the daughter of Babylon, escape! 8. For thus saith the LORD of hosts; He hath sent me for glory unto the heathen that spoiled you: their power is ended. He that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye. 9. For, behold, I will weave my hand upon them, and they shall be a spoil to them that served them; and ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me. 10. Rejoice and be glad, O daughter of Zion. For, behold, I come, and will dwell with thee, saith the LORD. 11. And in that day shall many nations be brought unto the LORD, and shall be my people: and I will dwell with thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee. 12. And the LORD shall inherit Judah for his portion in the holy land, and shall choose Jerusalem again. 13. Let all flesh be still before the LORD: for he is come up out of his holy place. Chapter 3 Christ's priestly ministry to Joshua prefigured. 1. And Joshua the high priest was shewed me, standing before the angel of the LORD: and Satan stood on his right hand to oppose him. 2. And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan: yea, the LORD rebuke thee, which hath chosen Jerusalem. Is not this a burning that is delivered out of the fire? 3. And Joshua had unclean raiment, and stood before the angel, 4. Which answered and said unto them that stood before him: Put away the unclean garments from him. And he said unto him, Behold, I have taken away thy sin from thee, and have clothed thee with garments of feasting. 5. And he said, Put a clean hat upon his head. And they put a clean hat upon his head, and clothed him with raiment: and the angel of the LORD stood there. 6. And the angel of the LORD bare witness unto Joshua, saying: 7. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and wait upon my guard, then thou shalt rule my house, and keep my courts: and I will give thee of these that stand here, that they may guide thee. 8. Give ear, O Joshua, thou high priest, thou and thy friends that dwell before thee: for they are wondrous. For, behold, I will send for Zemah my servant. 9. For, behold, upon the one stone, which I have laid before Joshua, shall be seven eyes. But, behold, I will hew it out, saith the LORD of hosts; and I will take away the sin of that land in one day. 10. In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall one invite another under the vine, and under the fig tree. (Zechariah) Chapter 4 Preservation of the church by God's power. 1. And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as one is waked from sleep, 2. And said unto me, What seest thou? And I said: And, behold, there stood a candlestick all of gold, with a vase upon it, and seven lamps thereon, and seven wedges to each lamp, 3. And two olive trees with them, one on the right hand of the bowl, and the other on the left. 4. And I answered and said unto the angel that talked with me, My lord, what is this? 5. And the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these things are? And I said, No, my lord. 6. And he answered and said unto me, This is the word of the LORD of Zerubbabel, saying, It shall not be by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. 7. Who art thou, O great mountain, which must be a plain before Zerubbabel? And he shall bring up the first stone, and they shall cry: Good fortune, good fortune! 8. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 9. The hands of Zerubbabel have founded this house; his hands also shall finish it, that ye may know that the LORD hath sent me unto you. 10. For who shall despise these few days, when they shall rejoice, and see the measure of brass in Zerubbabel's hand, with the seven, which are the eyes of the LORD, which run through all the land? 11. And I answered and said unto him, What are the two olive trees on the right hand and on the left hand of the candlestick? 12. And I answered the second time, and said unto him, What are the two olive branches which are by the two golden branches of the golden candlestick, to break off the top of the golden candlestick? 13. And he said unto me, Knowest thou not what these are? And I said, No, my lord. 14. And he said, These are the two children of oil, which stand by the ruler of all the land. (Zechariah) Chapter 5 Story of the flying letter and a woman sitting in the ephah. 1. And I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked, and, behold, it was a flying letter. 2. And he said unto me, What seest thou? And I said: I see a flying letter twenty cubits long and ten cubits broad. 3. And he said unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth upon all the land: for all thieves shall be accounted righteous according to this letter, and all perjurers shall be accounted righteous according to this letter. 4. But I will bring it forth, saith the LORD of hosts, and it shall come upon the house of the thief, and upon the house of them that swear falsely by my name; and it shall abide in their house, and consume it with the timber thereof, and with the stones thereof. 5. And the angel that talked with me came out, and said unto me, Lift up thine eyes, and behold, what cometh out? 6. And I said, What is it? And he said, An ephah cometh out, and said, This is her form throughout all the land. 7. And, behold, there floated a talent of lead; and there was a woman sitting in the ephah. 8. And he said, This is the ungodly doctrine. And he cast them into the ephah, and cast the lump of lead upon the top of the hole. 9. And I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, two women came out, having wings which the wind drove: and they had wings like the wings of a stork, and they led the ephah between the earth and heaven. 10. And I said unto the angel that talked with me: Where do they lead the ephah? 11. And he said unto me, Let an house be built for him in the land of Shinar, and let it be prepared, and let it be set there upon his ground. (Zechariah) Chapter 6 Of the protection of the holy angels over the pious. Christ's office and kingdom. 1. And I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked, and, behold, there were four chariots going out from between two mountains: and the mountains were brass. 2. There were red horses in the first chariot, and black horses in the second chariot; 3. On the third chariot were white horses; on the fourth chariot were strong horses. 4. And I answered and said unto the angel that talked with me, My lord, who are these? 5. And the angel answered and said unto me, These are the four winds which blow under heaven, which come forth to stand before the ruler of all the earth. 6. In which were the black horses, which went forth toward the north, and the white went after them: but the shekels went forth toward the south. 7. And the mighty went and removed, and compassed all the countries. And he said, Go ye, and pass through the land. And they went through the land. 8. And he called me, and spake unto me, saying, Behold, they that go forth toward the north make my spirit to rest in the land toward the north. 9. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 10. Take of the captives, that is, of Heldai, and of Tobiah, and of Jedaiah, and come thou the same day, and enter into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah, which are come from Babylon. 11. And take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set them upon the head of Joshua the high priest, the son of Jehozadak. 12. And say unto him, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, there is a man whose name is Zemah; for it shall grow under him; and he shall build the temple of the LORD. 13. Yea, he shall build the temple of the LORD, and shall bear the ornament, and shall sit and reign upon his throne, and shall be priest also upon his throne: and there shall be peace between them. 14. And the crowns shall be for a memorial unto Helem, and Tobiah, and Jedaiah, and Hen the son of Zephaniah, in the temple of the LORD. 15. And they shall come from afar, which shall build the temple of the LORD. Then ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you. And it shall come to pass, if ye will obey the voice of the LORD your God. (Zechariah) Chapter 7 Of fasting and works of mercy. 1. And it came to pass in the fourth year of Darius the king, that the word of the LORD came unto Zechariah in the fourth day of the ninth month, which is called Chisleu, 2. When Sarezer and Regem-melech and their men sent into the house of God to pray before the LORD, 3. And they told the priests that were about the house of the LORD of hosts, and the prophets: Must I also weep in the fifth month, and abstain, as I have done these things many years? 4. And the word of the LORD of hosts came unto me, saying: 5. Speak unto all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month these seventy years, have ye fasted unto me thus? 6. Or when ye did eat and drink, did ye not eat and drink for yourselves? 7. Is not this that the LORD preached by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited, and had abundance, and her cities round about, and men dwelt both in the south, and in the valley? 8. And the word of the LORD came unto Zechariah, saying: 9. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Judge ye aright, and shew kindness and mercy every man to his brother; 10. And do not wrong the widows, the fatherless, the stranger, or the poor; and let no man think evil in his heart against his brother. 11. But they would not hearken, and turned their backs unto me, and hardened their ears, that they heard not, 12. And set their hearts like unto a diamond, that they should not hear the law, and the words which the LORD of hosts sent in his spirit by the former prophets; wherefore great wrath came from the LORD of hosts. 13. And it came to pass thus: As they preached, and heard not; neither would I hear when they called, saith the LORD of hosts. 14. So I have scattered them among all the nations which know them not, and the land is left desolate behind them, that no man walketh therein, nor dwelleth therein: and the noble land is made desolate. (Zechariah) Chapter 8 Of the future of the Messiah and his kingdom: 1. And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: 2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I have been almost very jealous over Zion, and have been jealous over her in great wrath. 3. Thus saith the LORD; I will return unto Zion, and will dwell at Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth, and the mountain of the LORD of hosts a mountain of holiness. 4. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; There shall yet dwell in the streets of Jerusalem old men and old women, and they that walk by sticks of great age. 5. And the streets of the city shall be full of little children and maidens playing in the streets thereof. 6. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Do they think it impossible in the sight of the rest of the people at this time? Shall it therefore also be impossible in mine eyes? saith the LORD of hosts. 7. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will redeem my people from the land of the rising, and from the land of the going down of the sun. 8. And I will bring them to dwell in Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God in truth and righteousness. 9. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Strengthen ye your hands, which hear these words at this time by the mouth of the prophets, in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts is laid, that the temple may be built. 10. For before those days the labour of men was vain, and the labour of beasts was nothing; neither was there peace from trouble to them that went out and to them that came in: but I sent all men away, every man against his neighbour. 11. But now will I not go with the remnant of this people, as in the days of old, saith the LORD of hosts, 12. But they shall be seeds of peace. The vine shall yield her fruit, and the land shall yield her increase, and heaven shall yield her dew: and I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things. 13. And it shall come to pass, as ye of the house of Judah and of the house of Israel have been a curse among the heathen, so will I redeem you, and ye shall be a blessing. Only fear not, and strengthen your hands. 14. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; As I thought to afflict you, when your fathers provoked me to anger, saith the LORD of hosts, and I repented not, 15. So now again in these days I intend to do good to Jerusalem and to the house of Judah. Fear nothing at all. 16. And this is the thing which ye ought to do, speaking truth one to another, and judging rightly, and making peace in your gates; 17. And think no evil in his heart against his neighbour, neither take false oaths: for all these things I hate, saith the LORD. 18. And the word of the LORD of hosts came unto me, saying: 19. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; The fasts of the fourth, and of the fifth, and of the seventh, and of the tenth months, shall be unto the house of Judah joy and gladness, and joyful feasts of years. Only love truth and peace. 20. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; There shall yet come many nations, and the inhabitants of many cities, 21. And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, and say, Let us go to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: we will go with you also. 22. And many nations and multitudes of the Gentiles shall come to seek the LORD of hosts at Jerusalem, to pray before the LORD. 23. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In that day shall ten men of all tongues of the Gentiles take a Jewish man by the tail, and say, We will go with you: for we hear that GOD is with you. (Zechariah) Chapter 9 Promise of the good deeds of God. Prophecy of the calling of the Gentiles. 1. This is the burden of which the LORD spake concerning the land of Hadrach, and concerning Damascus, upon which it trusted: for the LORD looketh upon men, and upon all the tribes of Israel, 2. And also concerning Hamath, which bordereth with her, concerning Tyre and Zidon also, which are almost wise. 3. For Tyre buildeth strong, and gathereth silver as the sand, and gold as the dung of the street. 4. But, behold, the LORD will destroy her, and will smite her power that she hath upon the sea, and she shall be as one burnt with fire. 5. And when Asklon shall see it, she shall be afraid, and Gaza shall be sore afraid: and Ekron shall be grieved when she seeth it. For the king of Gasea shall be finished, and there shall be no dwelling in Asklon. 6. In Ashdod shall strangers dwell, and I will cut off the glory of the Philistines: 7. And I will put their blood out of their mouth, and their abominations out of their teeth; and they also shall be left unto our God, and shall become as princes in Judah, and Ekron as the Jebusites. 8. And I myself will encamp round about mine house, that it be not permitted to stand, or to go about, that the beater pass over them no more: for I have now looked upon it with mine eyes. 9. But thou, daughter of Zion, rejoice greatly; and thou, daughter of Jerusalem, exult. Behold, thy king cometh unto thee, a righteous man, and a helper, poor, riding upon an ass, and upon a young colt of the ass! 10. For I will put away the chariots from Ephraim, and the horses from Jerusalem; and the battle bow shall be broken. For he shall teach peace among the nations; and his dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the waters even unto the end of the world. 11. Thou also by the blood of thy covenant dost bring forth thy prisoners out of the pit, because there is no water in it. 12. Return ye therefore unto the stronghold, ye that are captives of hope: for this day also will I declare, and repay thee double. 13. For I have set Judah for a bow, and I have armed Ephraim; and I will raise up thy children, O Zion, over thy children, O Greece; and I will set thee as a sword of giants. 14. And the LORD shall appear upon them, and his arrows shall go forth as the lightning. And the LORD HEART shall blow a trumpet, and shall come in as the weather at noonday. 15. The LORD of hosts shall preserve them, that they may devour, and bring them under themselves with sling stones, that they may drink, and boil as of wine, and be filled as the laver, and as the corners of the altar. 16. And the LORD their God shall help them in that day, as he helpeth a flock of his people: for holy stones shall be set up in his land. 17. For what good thing have they before others, and what good thing have they before others? Corn that beareth young men, and must that beareth virgins. (Zechariah) Chapter 10 Of the good things to be enjoyed in the kingdom of Christ. 1. Ask ye therefore of the LORD the rain of the sparrows, and the LORD will make clouds, and give you rain sufficient for all the increase of the field. 2. For the idols speak vain things, and the diviners see vain lies, and speak vain dreams, and their comfort is nothing: therefore they go astray like a flock, and faint, because there is no shepherd. 3. My wrath is kindled against the shepherds, and I will punish the goats: for the LORD of hosts will punish his flock, even the house of Judah, and will make them as a horse of war. 4. The corners, and the nails, and the bows, and the beaters, shall all come away from them. 5. And yet they shall be as the giants that tread the mire in the street in the battle, and shall fight: for the LORD will be with them, that the horsemen shall be put to shame. 6. And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and deliver the house of Joseph, and will restore them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as they were, when I had not cast them off. For I the LORD their God will hear them. 7. And Ephraim shall be as a giant, and her heart shall be glad as of wine: and her children shall see it, and rejoice that her heart is glad in the LORD. 8. I will blow unto them, and gather them: for I will redeem them, and they shall multiply as they have multiplied before. 9. And I will sow them among the nations, and they shall remember me in far countries: and they shall live with their children, and return. 10. For I will bring them again out of the land of Egypt, and will gather them out of Assyria, and will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon, that there shall not be room for them. 11. And he shall pass through the sea of fear, and shall smite the waves in the sea, and all the depths of the waters shall dry up. Then shall the glory of Assyria be cut off, and the sceptre of Egypt shall cease. 12. I will strengthen them in the LORD, and they shall walk in his name, saith the LORD. (Zechariah) Chapter 11 Of the desolation of the Jewish land, caused by contempt of Christ, the true Shepherd. 1. Open thy door, O Lebanon, that the fire may consume thy cedars. 2. Make hay, ye fir trees: for the cedars are fallen, and the glorious building is destroyed. Hay, ye oaks of Bashan; for the strong forest is hewn down. 3. They hear the shepherds howling, because their glorious building is destroyed: they hear the young lions roaring, because the glory of Jordan is destroyed. 4. Thus saith the LORD my God, Beware of the sheep of the slaughter. 5. For their lords slay them, and think it no sin, and sell them, and say: Blessed be the LORD, I am rich: and their shepherds spare them not. 6. Therefore will I not spare the inhabitants of the land, saith the LORD. And, behold, I will leave the people every man in the hand of another, and in the hand of his king, to destroy the land; and I will not deliver them out of their hand. 7. And I tended the lambs for the slaughter, because of the sheep that were in misery: and I took unto me two staves, the one I called Gentle, and the other I called Woe: and I tended the sheep. 8. And I destroyed three shepherds in one month: for I liked not them, neither would they like mine. 9. And I said: I will not take heed to you. That which dieth, let it die; that which languisheth, let it languish; and the remnant eat every man his flesh. 10. And I took my rod softly, and brake it, to keep my covenant which I had made with all nations. 11. And he was taken up that day. And the wretched sheep that hearkened unto me perceived that it was the word of the LORD. 12. And I said unto them: If it please you, bring how much I am worth; but if not, let it stand. And they weighed how much I was worth, thirty pieces of silver. 13. And the LORD said unto me, Cast it, that it may be given to the potter. A very good sum of money, which they have esteemed me worthy of. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them into the house of the LORD, to be given to the potter. 14. And I brake my other staff, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel. 15. And the LORD said unto me, Take unto thee again the instruments of a foolish shepherd. 16. For, behold, I will raise up shepherds in the land, who shall not visit the faint, nor seek the broken, nor heal the broken, nor feed the sound; but the flesh of the fat shall they eat, and rend their hoofs. 17. O idolatrous shepherds who leave the flock! Let the sword come upon her arm and upon her right eye! Let their arm wither and their right eye grow dark! (Zechariah) Chapter 12 Church is unconquerable in the midst of tribulation in Christ crucified by the Spirit of grace and prayer. 1. This is the burden of the word of the LORD upon Israel, saith the LORD that stretched out the heavens, and founded the earth, and made the breath of man in him. 2. Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of stumbling for all the nations that are round about: for it shall be for Judah also, when Jerusalem is besieged. 3. Nevertheless in that day will I make Jerusalem a stone of burden unto all nations. And all that lift it up shall be cut in pieces: for all the nations of the earth shall be gathered together against it. 4. In that day, saith the LORD, I will make all horses afraid, and their riders afraid: but over Jerusalem will I have mine eyes open, and will afflict all the horses of the nations with blindness. 5. And the princes of Judah shall say in their heart, Let the inhabitants of Jerusalem be confident in the LORD of hosts their God. 6. In that day will I make the princes of Judah a fiery furnace in the wood, and a torch in the straw; and they shall consume both on the right hand, and on the left hand, all nations round about. And Jerusalem shall remain in her place at Jerusalem. 7. And the LORD shall save the tabernacles of Judah as of old, lest the house of David glory, or the inhabitants of Jerusalem, against Judah. 8. In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem: and it shall come to pass, that he that is weak among them in that day shall be as David; and the house of David shall be as the house of God, as the angel of the LORD before them. 9. And in that day will I remember to destroy all the heathen that are come against Jerusalem. 10. But upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, will I pour out the spirit of grace and of prayer: for they shall look upon me whom they have bruised, and shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for an infant; and shall be grieved for him, as one is grieved for a first child. 11. In that day there shall be a great lamentation in Jerusalem, as there was in Hadad-rimon in the field of Megiddo. 12. And the land shall mourn, every family specially: the family of the house of David specially, and their wives specially; the family of the house of Nathan specially, and their wives specially, 13. The family of the house of Levi specially, and their wives specially; the family of Shimei specially, and their wives specially; 14. So all the rest of the generations, every one specially, and their wives also specially. (Zechariah) Chapter 13 From the inexhaustible fountain of God's grace. 1. In that day shall the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem have a free open fountain against sin and uncleanness. 2. In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, I will cut off the names of idols out of the land, and they shall be remembered no more: and I will drive out of the land the prophets and unclean spirits, 3. And it shall come to pass, that if a man prophesy any more, his father and his mother which begat him shall say unto him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest falsely in the name of the LORD: and his father and his mother which begat him shall bruise him, if he prophesy. 4. For it shall come to pass in that day, that the prophets shall stand with shame in their visions, when they prophesy thereof; and they shall no more put on a smoking cloak, that they may deceive, 5. But shall say, I am no prophet, but a husbandman: for I have served men from my youth. 6. And if it be said unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? he shall say, So am I smitten in the house of them that love me. 7. Sword, arise upon my shepherd, and upon the man that is nigh unto me, saith the LORD of hosts. Smite the shepherd, and the flock shall be scattered: then will I turn mine hand unto the little ones. 8. And it shall come to pass, that in the land, saith the LORD, there shall be two parts: they shall be cut off, and perish; and the third part shall be left in. 9. And I will bring that third part through the fire, and purify it as silver is purified, and sweep it as gold is swept. And they shall call upon my name, and I will hear them. I will say, It is my people; and they shall saw: O LORD my God! (Zechariah) Chapter 14 Christ King and Patron of His Church. 1. Behold, the time cometh unto the LORD, that they shall divide thy spoil within thee. 2. For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle. And the city shall be taken, and the houses spoiled, and the women ravished: and half of the city shall be carried away captive, and the remnant of the people shall not be cut off out of the city. 3. But the LORD will go forth, and fight against these nations, as he is wont to fight in the time of war. 4. And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem eastward. And the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst from the going up even unto the going down, very far apart: and the half of the mount shall be about the north, and the half of the mount shall be about the south. 5. And ye shall flee from that valley between my mountains: for the valley between the mountains shall be nigh unto Azal: and ye shall flee, as ye fled before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. Then shall the LORD my God come, and all the saints with thee. 6. In those days there shall be no light, but cold and frost. 7. And there shall be a day known unto the LORD, neither day nor night. And the evening shall be light. 8. In that day shall fresh waters flow out of Jerusalem, half of them toward the sea eastward, and half of them toward the uttermost part of the sea: and they shall continue both summer and winter. 9. And the LORD shall be king over all the earth. In that day shall the LORD be one, and his name one. 10. And they shall go round about all the land, as upon a plain, from Gibeah to Rimon, toward Jerusalem southward. For it shall be lifted up, and inhabited in the place thereof, from the gate of Benjamin unto the place of the first gate, unto the corner gate, and from the tower of Hananeel unto the king's winepress. 11. And they shall dwell within, and there shall be no more banishment: for Jerusalem shall dwell in safety. 12. And this shall be the plague, that the LORD shall afflict all nations which have fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh shall rot, and they shall stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall rot in their holes, and their tongue shall rot in their mouths. 13. In that day shall the LORD make a great tumult among them, and one shall take another by the hand, and lay his hand upon another's hand. 14. For Judah also shall fight against Jerusalem, and the goods of all the nations that are round about shall be gathered together: Gold, and silver, and garments exceeding abundant. 15. And this plague shall come upon horses, and upon mouths, and upon camels, and upon asses, and upon all manner of beasts that are in the same host with them which are plagued. 16. And all the remnant of all the nations that went against Jerusalem shall come up yearly to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. 17. But what generation on earth shall not come up to Jerusalem to worship the King of hosts, the LORD of hosts, it shall not rain upon them. 18. And if the generation of the Egyptians come not up, neither shall it rain upon them. This shall be the plague, that the LORD may afflict all the heathen, which come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles. 19. For this shall be the sin of the Egyptians, and of all the heathen, which come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles. 20. In that day shall the armour of the horses be holy unto the LORD: and the caldrons of the house of the LORD shall be as the laver before the altar. 21. For all the caldrons, both of Jerusalem and of Judah, shall be holy unto the LORD of hosts: and all that offer shall come and take them, and boil in them. And there shall be no more Canaanites in the house of the LORD of hosts in that day. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The prophet Malachi (Malachi) ^ Chapter 1 Punishment of ingratitude against God's love. 1. This is the burden which the LORD speaketh against Israel by Malachi. 2. I love you, saith the LORD. Say ye, Wherewith lovest thou us? Is not Esau Jacob's brother? saith the LORD; neither have I loved Jacob. 3. And hated Esau, and made his mountains desolate, and his inheritance a desolation to the dragon. 4. And if Edom shall say: We are ruined, but we will build again the wilderness: thus saith the LORD of hosts; If they build, I will destroy: and it shall be called the condemned border, and a people against whom the LORD is wroth for ever. 5. This shall your eyes see, and shall say, The LORD is glorious in the borders of Israel. 6. A son shall honour his father, and a servant his lord. Am I then father, where is my honour? Am I lord, where do men fear me? saith the LORD of hosts unto you priests that despise my name. Say ye, Wherewithal do we despise thy name? 7. In that ye offer unclean bread upon mine altar. Then say ye, Wherewithal do we offer unclean things unto thee? With this ye say, The LORD'S table is despised. 8. And if ye offer the blind, it shall not be called evil: neither if ye offer the lame, or the sick, it shall not be called evil. Bring it to your prince. What matter if thou please him, or if he regard thy person? saith the LORD of hosts. 9. Pray ye therefore God that he may be gracious unto us. For these things are done of you. Think ye that he will look upon your persons? saith the LORD of hosts. 10. Who is there among you that shutteth a door? Ye kindle no fire upon mine altar in vain. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts; and the meat offering of your hands is not acceptable unto me. 11. But from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be magnified among the heathen: and in every place incense shall be burned unto my name, and a pure meat offering offered: for my name shall be magnified among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts. 12. But ye profane it, saying, The LORD'S table is unholy, and his sacrifice is despised with his meat. 13. And ye say, Behold, it is but trouble; and ye cast it to the winds, saith the LORD of hosts. And ye offer the spoiled, and the lame, and the sick, and then offer meat offerings. Shall these things please me at your hand? saith the LORD. 14. Cursed be the man of advantage that hath a male in his flock, and when he voweth a vow, he offereth an unprofitable one unto the LORD. For I am a great king, saith the LORD of hosts; and my name is terrible among the heathen. (Malachi) Chapter 2 Sermon against the sins of the priests and the people. 1. And now, ye priests, this commandment is for you. 2. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, then will I send a curse upon you, and curse your blessing; yea, I will curse it, because ye will not lay it to heart. 3. Behold, I will rebuke you with the seed, and will cast the dung of your feasts in your faces, and it shall cleave unto you. 4. Then ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that it should be my covenant with Levi, saith the LORD of hosts. 5. For my covenant was with him for life and peace: and I gave him the fear, that he might fear me, and put my name in awe. 6. The law of truth was in his mouth, and no evil was found in his lips. He walked peaceably and uprightly before me, and converted many from sin. 7. For the lips of the priest shall keep the doctrine, to seek the law out of his mouth: for he is an angel of the LORD of hosts. 8. But ye are gone out of the way, and have offended many in the law, and have broken the covenant of Levi, saith the LORD of hosts. 9. Therefore have I also made you to be despised and worthless before all the people, because ye have not kept my ways, and have looked upon persons in the law. 10. For have we not all one Father? Did not one God create us? Why then do we despise one another, and profane the covenant made with our fathers? 11. For Judah is become a despiser, and abominations are done in Israel and in Jerusalem. For Judah hath profaned the holiness of the LORD, which he loveth, and hath trifled with the daughter of a strange god. 12. But the LORD shall cut off him that doeth these things out of the tabernacle of Jacob, both master and pupil, and him that offereth meat offerings unto the LORD of hosts. 13. And ye also do this, that before the altar of the LORD there is weeping and weeping and groaning, that I cannot look upon the meat offering, nor receive any good thing at your hands. 14. And ye say, Wherefore is this? Because the LORD hath put between thee and the wife of thy youth, whom thou despisest, when she is thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant. 15. So the one did not, and yet was of a great spirit. But what did the one do? He sought the seed of God. Therefore beware of your spirit, and let no man despise the wife of his youth. 16. But let him that hateth her depart, saith the LORD God of Israel, and let him give her a covering of iniquity out of his garment, saith the LORD of hosts. Therefore beware of your spirit, and despise her not. 17. Ye make the LORD displeased by your words. Say ye, Wherewith shall we make him displeased? By this ye say, He that doeth evil pleaseth the LORD, and delighteth in him: or, Where is the LORD that punisheth? (Malachi) Chapter 3 Prophecy of John and Christ and of both ministries. (Epistle on the day of Mary's purification.) 1. Behold, I will send my angel, which shall prepare the way before me. And soon shall come to his temple the LORD whom ye seek, and the angel of the covenant whom ye desire. Behold, he cometh, saith the LORD of hosts. 2. But who shall endure the day of his coming, and who shall stand when he shall appear? For he is as the fire of a goldsmith, and as the soap of washers. 3. He shall sit and melt, and purify the silver: he shall purify the children of Levi, and purify them as gold and silver. Then shall they bring meat offerings unto the LORD in righteousness, 4. And the meat offering of Judah and Jerusalem shall be acceptable unto the LORD, as it was before, and as it was many years ago. 5. And I will come unto you, and will punish you, and be a swift witness against sorcerers, and adulterers, and perjurers, and against them that do violence and wrong to the hireling, and to the widow, and to the fatherless, and that oppress the stranger, and fear me not, saith the LORD of hosts. 6. For I am the LORD that lieth not. And it shall not be utterly finished with you children of Jacob. 7. Ye have departed from my commandments from your fathers' days, and have not kept them: Turn ye therefore unto me, and I will turn unto you also, saith the LORD of hosts. Say ye, Wherein shall we return? 8. Is it lawful for a man to deceive God, as ye deceive me? Say ye, Wherewith do we deceive thee? In tithes and heave offerings. 9. Therefore are ye also cursed, that all things should pass out of your hands: for ye all deceive me. 10. But bring ye all the tithes into my storehouse, that there may be meat in my house: and try me in this, saith the LORD of hosts, whether I will not open unto you the windows of heaven, and pour down blessings in abundance. 11. And I will rebuke the devourer for you, that he destroy not the fruit of the field, and that the vine of the field be not unfruitful unto you, saith the LORD of hosts, 12. That all nations may call you blessed: for ye shall be a goodly land, saith the LORD of hosts. 13. Ye speak hard against me, saith the LORD. Say ye, Why speak we against thee? 14. That ye should say, It is vain to serve God; and, What profit is it to keep his commandment? What profit is it that we keep his commandment, and live hard before the LORD of hosts? 15. Therefore we praise the rejecters, because the wicked increase; they tempt God, and all things go well out of them. 16. But the godly comfort one another, saying, The LORD heareth and heareth: and before him is a memorial written for them that fear the LORD, and remember his name. 17. They shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in the day that I make them; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his son that serveth him. 18. And again ye shall see what manner of difference there is between the righteous and the wicked, and between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. (Malachi) Chapter 4 Of Christo and John the Baptist. 1. For, behold, a day cometh, which shall burn as an oven; and all the rejecters and the wicked shall be straw, and the day that is to come shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, and shall leave them neither root nor branch. 2. But unto you that fear my name shall the sun of righteousness arise, and salvation under the wings thereof; and ye shall go forth and come in, and wax as fatlings. 3. Ye shall tread down the wicked: for they shall be ashes under your feet in the day that I will make, saith the LORD of hosts. 4. Remember the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded him in mount Horeb unto all Israel, with the commandments and the statutes. 5. Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet, before the great and terrible day of the LORD come. 6. Who shall turn the heart of the fathers unto the children, and the heart of the children unto their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] Gospel of Matthew ^ The Holy Scriptures New Testament Chapter 1 1. This is the book of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the son of David, the son of Abraham. 2. Abraham begat Isaac. Isaac begat Jacob. Jacob begat Judah and his brethren. 3. Judah begat Pharez and Saram of Tamar. Pharez begat Hezron. Hezron begat Ram. 4. Ram begat Aminadab. Aminadab begat Nahasson. Nahasson begat Salma. 5. Salma begat Boaz of Rahab. Boaz begat Obed of Ruth. Obed begat Jesse. 6. Jesse begat king David. And king David begat Solomon of the wife of Uriah. 7. Solomon begat Roboam. Roboam begat Abia. Abia begat Assa. 8. Assa begat Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat begat Joram. Joram begat Osiah. 9. And Osiah begat Jotham. Jotham begat Achaz. Achaz begat Ezechia. 10. Ezechiah begat Manasseh. Manasseh begat Amon. Amon begat Josiah. 11. Josiah witnessed to Jechonia and his brethren about the time of the Babylonian captivity. 12. After the Babylonian captivity Jechonia begat Sealthiel. Sealthiel begat Zorobabel. 13. And Zorobabel begat Abiud. Abiud begat Eliachim. Eliachim begat Asor. 14. asor begat zadoch. Zadoch begat Achin. Achin begat Eliud. 15. Eliud begat Eleazar. Eleazar begat Matthan. Matthan begat Jacob. 16. Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. 17. All the members from Abraham even unto David are fourteen members. From David unto the Babylonish captivity are fourteen members. From the Babylonian captivity unto Christ are fourteen members. 18. Now the birth of Christ was thus done. And it came to pass, when Mary his mother had trusted Joseph, before he took her home, that she was with child of the Holy Ghost. 19. And Joseph her husband was pious, and would not reprove her, but purposed to leave her secretly. 20. And as he thought upon these things, behold, an angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy spouse: for that which is born in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22. And all these things were done, that it might be fulfilled which the LORD spake by the prophet, saying: 23. Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which is interpreted, God with us. 24. And when Joseph was awake from sleep, he did as the angel of the LORD commanded him, and took his spouse unto him. 25. And knew her not till she bare her first son, and called his name JEsus. (Matthew) Chapter 2 1. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea, in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying: 2. Where is the newborn King of the Jews? We have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship him. 3. And when Herod the king heard it, he was afraid, and all Jerusalem with him. 4. And he gathered together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, and inquired of them where Christ should be born. 5. And they said unto him, At Bethlehem in the land of Judah. For thus it is written by the prophet, saying. 6. And thou Bethlehem, which art in the land of Judah, art by no means the least of the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come a duke unto me, which shall be a lord over my people Israel. 7. Then Herod called the wise men secretly, and learned diligently of them when the star appeared, 8. And he directed them to Bethlehem, saying, Go and search diligently for the young child; and if ye find him, tell me again, that I also may come and worship him. 9. And when they had heard the king, they went their way. And, behold, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, until it came and stood over the top of the young child. 10. When they saw the star, they were glad. 11. And they went into the house, and found the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him, and opened their treasures, and gave him gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. 12. And God commanded them in a dream, that they should not turn again to Herod. And they departed by another way into their own land. 13. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into the land of Egypt, and tarry there until I tell thee: for it is present that Herod seeketh to destroy the young child. 14. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into the land of Egypt. 15. And he abode there until after the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which the LORD spake by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. 16. And when Herod saw that he was deceived of the wise men, he was very wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and all their borders, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently learned of the wise men. 17. Then is fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: 18. There was a cry in the mountains, and much wailing, and weeping, and weeping: Rachel wept for her children, and would not be comforted; for they were consumed. 19. And when Herod was dead, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto Joseph in a dream in the land of Egypt. 20. And said. Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. 21. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22. And when he heard that Archelaus was king in the land of Judaea instead of Herod his father, he feared to come thither. And in a dream he received commandment from God, and went into the places of the land of Galilee. 23. And he came and dwelt in the city that is called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets: He shall be called Nazarene. (Matthew) Chapter 3 1. at that time John the Baptist came and preached in the wilderness of the land of Judah 2. Saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3. And he is he of whom the prophet Isaiah spake, saying: There is a voice of a preacher in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, and make his paths straight. 4. And he, John, had a garment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. 5. And there went out unto him the city of Jerusalem, and all the land of Judah, and all the countries of Jordan. 6. And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. 7. And when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said unto them: Ye vipers, who hath shewed you that ye shall escape the wrath to come? 8. Take heed, do righteous fruits of repentance. 9. Think not that ye will say among yourselves, We have Abraham for a father. I say to you: God is able to raise up children for Abraham from these stones. 10. The axe is laid unto the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 11. I baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is stronger than I, to whom neither am I sufficient to bear his shoes: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire. 12. And he hath his shovel in his hand; he shall sweep his threshingfloor, and gather the wheat into his barn: but the chaff shall he burn with everlasting fire. 13. At that time came JEsus from Galilee unto John by Jordan, to be baptized of him. 14. But John rebuked him, saying: I have need that I should be baptized of thee, and thou comest to me? 15. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Let it be so now: so it behoveth us to fulfil all righteousness. And he suffered him to do it. 16. And when JEsus was baptized, he came up straightway out of the water; and, behold, the heaven was opened upon him. And John saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and coming upon him. 17. And, behold, a voice from heaven said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Matthew) Chapter 4 1. Then was JEsus led of the Spirit into the wilderness, that he might be tempted of the devil. 2. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he hungered. 3. And the tempter came unto him, and said, If thou be the Son of God, let these stones be made bread. 4. And he answered and said, It is written: Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 5. And the devil brought him with him into the holy city, and set him upon the pinnacle of the temple. 6. And said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, let thee down: for it is written: He shall command his angels concerning thee, and they shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. 7. Then said JEsus unto him, Again, it is also written: Thou shalt not tempt thy Lord God. 8. Again the devil led him up into a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them. 9. And said unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10. Then said JEsus unto him, Remove thyself from me, Satan. For it is written: Thou shalt worship God thy Lord, and him only shalt thou serve. 11. And the devil left him: and, behold, the angels came and ministered unto him. 12. When therefore Jesus heard that John was delivered up, he departed into Galilee. 13. And he left the city of Nazareth, and came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim, 14. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: 15. The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, on the other side Jordan, and Gentile Galilee, 16. The people that sat in darkness have seen a great light; and they that sat in the place and shadow of death, unto them hath a light dawned. 17. From that time forth began JEsus to preach, saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 18. And as JEsus went by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting their nets into the sea: for they were fishers. 19. And he said unto them: Follow me; I will make you fishers of men. 20. And soon they left their nets, and followed him. 21. And as he passed on from thence, he saw two other brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets: and he called them. 22. Soon they left the ship and their father and followed him. 23. And JE went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. 24. And the fame of him went throughout all Syria. And they brought unto him all manner of sick persons, afflicted with divers diseases and torments, the possessed, the moonstruck, and the palsied: and he healed them all. 25. And there followed him a great multitude out of Galilee, and out of the ten cities, and out of Jerusalem, and out of the land of Judaea, and beyond Jordan. (Matthew) Chapter 5 1. And when he saw the people, he went up into a mountain, and sat down; and his disciples came unto him. 2. And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying: 3. Blessed are they which are poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. 5. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. 6. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. 7. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 8. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. 9. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. 10. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you, when they lie against you, because of me. 12. Be glad and of good cheer: ye shall be well rewarded in heaven. For so they persecuted the prophets that were before you. 13. Ye are the salt of the earth. Wherefore if salt be made foolish, wherewith shall it be made salty? It is good for nothing henceforth, except that men cast it out, and tread it down. 14. ye are the light of the world. It may not be hidden the city that is on a mountain. 15. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but upon a candlestick; and it shall shine unto all that are in the house. 16. Let your light therefore shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 17. Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets. I have not come to abolish, but to fulfill. 18. For I say unto you: Verily, till heaven and earth pass away, not the least letter, nor tittle, of the law shall pass away, till all be done. 19. Whosoever therefore shall destroy one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness be better than that of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 21. Ye have heard that it was said unto the ancients, Thou shalt not kill: but whosoever killeth shall be liable to judgment. 22. But I say unto you: He that is angry with his brother is guilty of judgment; but he that saith unto his brother, Racha; is guilty of counsel; but he that saith, Thou fool, is guilty of hellish fire. 23. Therefore when thou offerest thy gift upon the altar, and shalt think there that thy brother hath aught against thee, 24. Leave thy gift there before the altar, and go first and make reconciliation with thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25. Be ready unto thine adversary quickly, while thou art yet with him in the way, lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the servant, and thou be cast into prison. 26. I say unto thee, Verily thou shalt not come out thence, till thou pay the last farthing. 27. Ye have heard that it was said unto the ancients, Thou shalt not commit adultery. 28. But I say unto you: He that looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her in his heart. 29. But if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that the whole body should be cast into hell. 30. If thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee that one of thy members perish, and not that the whole body be cast into hell. 31. It is also said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a bill of divorcement. 32. But I say unto you: Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for adultery, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry a woman that is put away committeth adultery. 33. Ye have heard further, that it was said unto the ancients, Thou shalt not take a false oath, and shalt keep thine oath unto GOD. 34. But I say unto you, that ye swear not by any thing, neither by heaven, for it is the throne of God; 35. Nor by the earth, for it is the footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of a great king. 36. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head: for thou canst not make a single hair white or black. 37. But let your speech be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay; whatsoever is above is of evil. 38. Ye have heard that it is said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. 39. But I say unto you, resist not evil: but if any man smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40. And if any man will come to thee in righteousness, and take thy skirt, let him have thy coat also. 41. And if any man compel thee a mile, go with him two. 42. Give to him that asketh thee, and turn not away from him that would borrow from thee. 43. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you, 45. That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46. For if ye love them that love you, what reward have ye? Do not the publicans do the same? 47. And if ye only do kindly unto your brethren, what do ye strangely? Do not the publicans also so? 48. Therefore be ye perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. (Matthew) Chapter 6 1. Take heed to your alms, that ye give them not before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward with your Father which is in heaven. 2. When therefore thou doest alms, thou shalt not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 3. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth, 4. That thine alms may be hid: and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 5. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites, which love to stand and pray in the synagogues, and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward there. 6. And when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and shut thy door, and pray unto thy Father in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 7. And when ye pray, ye shall not babble much, as the heathen do: for they think they shall be heard if they speak much. 8. Therefore ye shall not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9. Therefore pray ye therefore: Our Father in heaven! May your name be hallowed. 10. Thy kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11. Give us this day our daily bread. 12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. 14. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. 16. When ye fast, look not sore, as the hypocrites do: for they disguise their faces, that they may appear before men with their fasting. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 17. And when thou fastest, anoint thy head, and wash thy face, 18. That thou appear not unto men with thy fasting, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 19. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal. 20. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves neither dig nor steal. 21. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 22. The eye is the light of the body. If thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be light. 23. But if thine eye be darkness, thy whole body shall be darkness. But if the light that is in thee be darkness, how great shall be the darkness itself! 24. No man can serve two masters. Either he will hate one and love the other, or he will cling to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. 25. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; neither for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26. Behold the birds of the air: they sow not, neither do they reap, neither do they gather into barns: yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much more than they? 27. Who is there among you that will add haste to his length, though he be anxious for it? 28. And why do ye care for raiment? Look at the lilies of the field, how they grow! They work not, neither do they spin. 29. I tell you that even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed as one. 30. If God so clothe the grass of the field, which standeth to day, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more do it unto you, O ye of little faith? 31. Therefore shall ye not be anxious, saying, What shall we eat, what shall we drink, wherewith shall we be clothed? 32. After all these things do the heathen seek. For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33. Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. 34. Therefore take no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for itself. It is enough for every day to have its own plague. (Matthew) Chapter 7 (Of some obstacles to bliss) 1. Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye measure, it shall be measured unto you. 3. But why seest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, and perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4. Or how mayest thou say unto thy brother, Hold, I will pluck out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, there is a beam in thine eye? 5. Thou hypocrite, first pluck out the beam out of thine own eye; afterward consider how thou pluckest the mote out of thy brother's eye. 6. Ye shall not give the sanctuary unto the dogs, neither shall ye cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and rend you. 7. Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 8. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9. Which of you men, if his son ask him for bread, shall offer him a stone? 10. Or if he ask him for a fish, that he may offer him a serpent? 11. If ye then, being evil, be able to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things unto them that ask him! 12. Whatsoever therefore ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: this is the law and the prophets. 13. Enter ye in at the strait gate. For the gate is wide, and the way is broad, that leadeth to destruction; and they are many that go in thereat. 14. And the gate is strait, and the way is narrow, that leadeth unto life; and few there be which find it. 15. Beware of false prophets, which come unto you in sheep's clothing. But inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16. By their fruits ye shall know them. Can you also gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? 17. Every good tree therefore bringeth forth good fruit: but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20. Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22. Many shall say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, have we not cast out devils in thy name, have we not done many works in thy name? 23. Then I will confess to them: I have never known you;. depart from me, all you evildoers! 24. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. 25. And when the rain fell, and the waters came, and the winds blew, and beat upon the house, it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26. And whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, is like unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. 27. And when the rain fell, and the waters came, and the winds blew, and beat upon the house, it fell, and made a great falling down. 28. And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished this discourse, the people were astonished at his doctrine. 29. For he preached mightily, and not as the scribes. (Matthew) Chapter 8 1. And when he was come down from the mountain, much people followed him. 2. And, behold, a leper came and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 3. And JEsus put forth his hand, and touched him, and said: I will do it; be cleansed. And straightway he was cleansed from his leprosy. 4. And JEsus said unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift which Moses commanded, for a testimony against them. 5. And when JEsus was come into Capernaum, a centurion came unto him, beseeching him 6. And said, Lord, my servant lieth at home, and is sick of the palsy, and is in great pain. 7. And JEsus said unto him, I will come and heal him. 8. And the centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof; but speak but one word, and my servant shall be healed. 9. For I am a man, and subject unto authority, and have under me servants of war: yet if I say to one, Go, he goeth; and to another, Come, he cometh: Come hither, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. 10. When JEsus heard it, he marvelled, and said unto them that followed him: Verily I say unto you, I have not found such faith in Israel. 11. But I say unto you, That many shall come from the morning and from the evening, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. 12. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 13. And JESUS said unto the centurion, Go thy way: as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed that very hour. 14. And JEsus came into Peter's house, and saw that his wife lay sick of the fever. 15. And he took hold of her hand, and the fever left her. And she arose, and ministered unto them. 16. And in the evening they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with words, and healed all that were diseased, 17. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, He hath taken upon him our infirmities, and he hath borne our plague. 18. And when JE saw much people about him, he commanded to pass over beyond the sea. 19. And there came unto him a scribe, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. 20. And JESUS said unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. 21. And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me that I go and bury my father first. 22. But JEsus said unto him, Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead. 23. And he entered into the ship, and his disciples followed him. 24. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, so that the little ship also was covered with waves: and he slept. 25. And the disciples came unto him, and awaked him, and said: Lord, help us; we are perishing. 26. Then said he unto them: Ye of little faith, why are ye so fearful? And he arose, and troubled the wind and the sea; and there was silence. 27. And the people marvelled, and said: What manner of man is this, that the wind and the sea obey him? 28. And he came beyond the sea unto the country of the Gergesenes. And there met him two possessed with devils, which came out of the grave-diggers, and were very fierce; so that no man could go by that way. 29. And, behold, they cried out, saying: Ah JESUS, thou Son of GOD, what have we to do with thee? Art thou come to torment us before the time? 30. And there was far from them a great herd of swine feeding. 31. Then the devils besought him, saying: If thou wilt cast us out, let us go into the herd of swine. 32. And he said, Go your way. So they went out, and entered into the herd of swine. And, behold, all the herd of swine rushed with a tempest into the sea, and were drowned in the water. 33. And the shepherds fled, and went into the city, and told all these things, and how it had been with them that were possessed with devils. 34. And, behold, the whole city went out to meet JESUS. And when they saw him, they besought him that he would depart from their border. (Matthew) Chapter 9 1. And he entered into the ship, and passed over again, and came into his own city. 2. And, behold, they brought unto him a sick of the palsy, lying on a bed. When therefore Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Be of good cheer, my son: thy sins be forgiven thee. 3. And, behold, some of the scribes said within themselves: This one blasphemes GOD. 4. And when JE saw their thoughts, he said, Why think ye evil in your hearts? 5. Which is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise and walk? 6. But that ye might know that the Son of man hath power on earth. hath power on earth to forgive sins, he saith unto the sick of the palsy, Arise, take up thy bed, and go home. 7. And he arose, and went home. 8. And when the people saw it, they marvelled, and praised GOD, who hath given such power unto men. 9. And as JEsus departed thence, he saw a man sitting at the receipt of custom, whose name was Matthew; and he said unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. 10. And it came to pass, as he sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat at meat with JEsu and his disciples. 11. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? 12. When JEsus heard it, he saith unto them: The strong have no need of a physician, but the sick. 13. But go ye, and learn what these things are; I delight in mercy, and not in sacrifice. I am come to call sinners to repentance, and not the pious. 14. And the disciples of John came unto him, saying: Why do we and the Pharisees fast so much, and thy disciples fast not? 15. And JEsus said unto them: How can the bridal party bear sorrow while the bridegroom is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and then they will fast. 16. No man mendeth an old garment with a rag of new cloth: for the rag is rent again from the garment, and the rent is made worse. 17. Neither put must into old wineskins: otherwise the wineskins are broken, and the must is spilled, and the wineskins perish. But put must into new wineskins, and they shall be kept together. 18. And as he spake these things unto them, behold, one of the princes came and fell down before him, and said, Lord, my daughter is now dead; but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. 19. And JEsus arose, and followed him, and his disciples. 20. And, behold, a woman which had bled twelve years came up behind him, and touched the hem of his garment. 21. For she said within herself: If I but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 22. And Jesus turned, and saw her, and said, Be of good cheer, my daughter: thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was healed that very hour. 23. And when he was come into the chief captain's house, he saw the pipers and the tumult of the people, 24. And he said unto them: Go away; for the maiden is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. 25. And when the people were cast out, he went in, and took her by the hand. And the damsel arose. 26. And the rumour went out into all that land. 27. And as JEsus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying out, and saying: O Son of David, have mercy on us! 28. And when he was come home, the blind came unto him. And JEsus said unto them: Do ye believe that I can do these things unto you? And they said unto him, Lord, yea. 29. Then touched he their eyes, and said, Be it done unto you according to your faith. 30. And their eyes were opened. And JEsus afflicted them, saying, See that no man know it. 31. And they went out, and made him famous throughout all that country. 32. And when they were come out, behold, they brought unto him a man dumb and possessed. 33. And when the devil was cast out, the dumb man spake. And the people marvelled, saying, Such things were never seen in Israel. 34. But the Pharisees said: He casteth out devils by the chief of the devils. 35. And JE went about into all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. 36. And when he saw the people, he was sorry for them: for they were faint, and scattered as sheep that have no shepherd. 37. And he said unto his disciples, The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few. 38. Therefore pray ye the LORD of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest. (Matthew) Chapter 10 Of the twelve disciples of Christ. 1. And he called unto him his twelve disciples, and gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. 2. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first Simon, called Peter, and Andrew his brother;. James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3. Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus; Lebbeus surnamed Thaddaeus; 4. Simon of Cana and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 5. These twelve JEsus sent, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, nor go into the cities of the Samaritans, 6. But go ye to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7. But go and preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils. For free ye have received, for free ye give. 9. Ye shall not have gold, nor silver, nor brass, in your girdles, 10. Neither shall there be a bag to carry away, nor two coats, nor shoes, nor a staff. For a labourer is worthy of his meat. 11. And when ye go into any city or market, inquire whether there be any worthy therein, and abide with him until ye depart thence. 12. And where ye enter into any house, salute the same. 13. And if that house be worthy, your peace shall come upon it. But if it be not worthy, your peace shall return unto you. 14. And if any man will not receive you, nor hear your words, come out of that house or city, and shake off the dust of your feet. 15. Verily I say unto you, That the land of Sodom and Gomorr will be more tolerable in the last judgment than that city. 16. Behold, I send you as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and without guile as doves. 17. But beware of men. For they will deliver you up before their town halls, and scourge you in their synagogues. 18. And ye shall be brought before princes and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them, and against the heathen. 19. When therefore they shall deliver you up, be not anxious how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that hour what ye shall speak. 20. For it is not ye that speak, but your Father's Spirit which speaketh by you. 21. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the son: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to die. 22. And must be hated by everyone for my name's sake. But he who perseveres to the end will be saved. 23. But if they persecute you in one city, flee into another. Verily I say unto you, Ye shall not align the cities of Israel, till the Son of man come. 24. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the father of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call his household! 26. Therefore fear them not. There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed, and there is nothing secret that will not be known. 27. What I say unto you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. 28. And fear not them which kill the body, neither kill the soul. But rather fear him who may destroy both body and soul into hell. 29. Is not two sparrows bought for a penny? Not one of them will fall to the earth without your father. 30. But now are all the hairs of your head numbered. 31. Fear not therefore: ye are better than many sparrows. 32. Therefore whosoever shall confess me before men, him will I confess before my heavenly Father. 33. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my heavenly Father. 34. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth. I am not come to send peace, but the sword. 35. For I am come to provoke a man against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the cord against her inlaws. 36. And man's enemies shall be his own household. 37. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38. And whosoever shall not take up his cross, and follow me, is not worthy of me. 39. He that findeth his life shall lose it; and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. 40. He that receiveth you receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. 41. He that receiveth a prophet in a prophet's name shall receive a prophet's reward. He that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive the reward of a righteous man. 42. And whosoever shall water one of these little ones with a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, it shall not go unrewarded unto him. (Matthew) Chapter 11 John's message. Christ's earnest threat and friendly invitation. 1. And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities. 2. And when John heard the works of Christ in prison, he sent two of his disciples. 3. And said unto him, Art thou he that is to come, or shall we wait for another? 4. Jesus answered and said unto them: Go and tell John again what you see and hear: 5. The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them; 6. And blessed is he that is not offended in me. 7. And as they went, Jesus began to say unto John's people, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? Did ye desire to see a reed which the wind wove to and fro? 8. Or what went ye out to see? Wilt thou see a man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that wear soft garments are in the houses of kings. 9. Or what went ye out to see? Did ye desire to see a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, he also is more than a prophet. 10. For this is he of whom it is written, Behold, I send my angel before thee, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 11. Verily I say unto you, Among all them that are born of virgins there hath not arisen one greater than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12. But from the days of John the Baptist unto this time the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and they that do violence snatch it away. 13. For all the prophets and the law have taught until John. 14. And (if ye will accept it) he is Elias, which shall be for the future. 15. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 16. But to whom shall I liken this generation? It is like the little children that sit in the marketplace, and cry out against their fellows. 17. And say: We whistled unto you, and ye would not dance; we mourned unto you, and ye would not weep. 18. John came, neither eating nor drinking: so they say, He hath the devil. 19. The Son of man is come, eat and drink: and they say, Behold, man is a glutton, and a winebibber, a publican, and a sinner's companion. And wisdom must be justified by her children. 20. Then began he to reproach the cities wherein most of his deeds were done, and yet had not reformed: 21. Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If such deeds had been done in Tyre and Sidon as have been done among you, they would have repented in sackcloth and ashes before the time. 22. But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment, than for you. 23. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be cast down to hell. For if the deeds that were done in thee had been done in Sodom, they were yet this day. 24. But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee. 25. At that time Jesus answered and said: I praise thee, O Father and Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. 26. Yea, Father, for it hath been well pleasing in thy sight. 27. All things are delivered unto me of my Father. And no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; and no man knoweth the Father, but the Son; and to whom the Son will shew it. 28. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am gentle and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew) Chapter 12 Christ's speech with the Pharisees. 1. At that time JEsus went through the seed on the sabbath day: and his disciples being hungry began to pluck up ears of corn, and to eat. 2. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not fitting to be done on the sabbath day. 3. And he said unto them: Have ye not read what David did, when he and they that were with him hungered? 4. As he went into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them that were with him, but for the priests only? 5. Or have ye not read in the law, how the priests break the sabbath in the temple on the sabbath day, and yet are guiltless? 6. But I say unto you, that here is he which is greater than the temple. 7. But if ye knew what' this is, I delight in mercy, and not in sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the innocent. 8. The Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day. 9. And he departed thence, and came into their synagogue. 10. And, behold, there was a man which had a withered hand. And they asked him, saying: Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day? that they might have a cause against him. 11. And he said unto them: What man is there among you, if he have a sheep which shall fall into a pit on the sabbath day, that shall not take hold of it, and lift it up? 12. How much better therefore is a man than a sheep! Therefore do good on the sabbath day. 13. And he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he stretched it out, and it was restored unto him like unto the other. 14. Then the Pharisees went out, and took counsel against him, how they might destroy him. 15. But when JEsus knew it, he departed thence. And much people followed him, and he healed them all. 16. And afflicted them, because they reported him not, 17. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: 18. Behold, this is my servant, whom I have chosen, and my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall declare judgment unto the heathen. 19. He shall not wrangle, nor cry out, neither shall his cry be heard in the streets. 20. He will not break the bruised reed, nor quench the smoldering wick, until he execute judgment unto victory. 21. And the heathen shall hope in his name. 22. And there was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind and dumb: and he healed him so that the blind and dumb man both spake and saw. 23. And all the people were amazed, and said: Is not this David's son? 24. But the Pharisees, when they heard it, said, He casteth out devils no other way than by Beelzebub, the chief of the devils. 25. And Jesus heard their thoughts, and said unto them: Every kingdom divided against itself shall be desolate; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand. 26. If then one Satan cast out another, he must be at variance with himself: how then can his kingdom stand? 27. But if I cast out devils by Beelzebub, by whom do they cast out your children? Therefore they shall be your judges. 28. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or how can a man enter into a strong man's house, and rob him of his goods, except he first bind the strong man, and then rob him of his house? 30. He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. 31. Therefore I say unto you: All sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven men, but blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven men. 32. And whosoever shall speak against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever shall speak against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, nor in the next. 33. Either plant a good tree, and the fruit shall be good; or plant a corrupt tree, and the fruit shall be corrupt: for by the fruit shall the tree be known. 34. Ye vipers, how can ye speak good, being evil? Whose heart is full, his mouth overflows. 35. A good man bringeth forth good things out of the good treasure of his heart; and an evil man bringeth forth evil things out of his evil treasure. 36. But I say unto you, That men shall give account at the last judgment of every vain word that they have spoken. 37. By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. 38. Then answered some of the scribes and Pharisees, and said: Master, we would gladly see a sign from thee. 39. And he answered and said unto them: The wicked and adulterous kind seeketh a sign, and there shall no sign be given unto it, save the sign of Jonas the prophet. 40. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale's belly, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the midst of the earth. 41. The people of Nineveh shall stand with this generation at the judgment, and shall condemn them: for they repented after the preaching of Jonah. And, behold, here is more than Jonah. 42. The queen of the south shall appear at the last judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the end of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon. And, behold, here is more than Solomon. 43. When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh in dry places, seeking rest, and findeth it not. 44. Then saith he: I will return to my house from whence I came. And when he cometh, he findeth it idle, and clean, and adorned. 45. And he goeth, and taketh unto him seven other spirits worse than himself: and when they are come in, they dwell there; and the same man is worse afterward than he was before. So it will be with this evil generation. 46. While he yet spake thus unto the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. 47. And one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. 48. And he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother, and who are my brethren? 49. And stretching forth his hand over his disciples, he said, Behold my mother and my brethren. 50. For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. (Matthew) Chapter 13 1. That same day JEsus went out of the house, and sat by the sea. 2. And great multitudes were gathered unto him, so that he entered into the ship, and sat down. And all the people stood on the shore. 3 And he spake unto them many things in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow. . 4. And as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the birds came and devoured them. 5. Some things fell into the stony places, because they had not much earth; and they rose up quickly, because they had not deep earth. 6. And when the sun was up, it withered, and because it had no root, it became dry. 7. Some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up, and choked it. 8. Some fell on good ground, and bare fruit; some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 10. And the disciples came unto him, saying: Why speakest thou unto them in parables? 11. And he answered and said, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of heaven: but unto these it is not given. 12. For unto him that hath shall be given, that he may have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that he hath. 13. Therefore speak I unto them in parables. For with seeing eyes they see not, and with hearing ears they hear not; for they understand not. 14. And upon them shall be fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, saying, With the ears ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and with seeing eyes ye shall see, and shall not hear. 15. For this people's heart is hardened, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes are dim, lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. 16. But blessed are your eyes, that they see; and your ears, that they hear. 17. Verily I say unto you, Many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. 18. Hear ye therefore this parable of the sower. 19. If any man hear the word of the kingdom, and understand it not, the wicked man cometh, and taketh away that which is sown in his heart: and he it is that soweth in the way. 20. But he that is sown on stony ground is he that heareth the word, and soon receiveth it with joy. 21. But he hath not root in him, but he is fickle: when tribulation and persecution arise because of the word, he is soon vexed. 22. But he that is sown among thorns, if any man hear the word, and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and bring not forth fruit. 23. But he that is sown in the good land, if any man hear the word, and understand it, and bring forth fruit; and some bear an hundredfold, and some sixty, and some thirty. 24. And he set before them another parable, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man which sowed good seed in his field. 25. And while the people slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and departed. 26. And when the herb grew, and brought forth fruit, then were the tares also found. 27. And the servants came unto the father of the house, and said: Lord, hast thou not sown good seed in thy field? Whence then did he sow the tares? 28. And he said unto them: This hath the enemy done. Then said the servants: Wilt thou then that we go and weed it out? 29. And he said, Nay, lest, when ye pluck up the tares, ye pluck up the wheat with them. 30. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say unto the reapers, Gather first the tares, and bind them in bundles to be burned: but gather the wheat into my barns. 31. And he set another parable before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field, 32. Which is the least of all seeds: but when it groweth up, it is the greatest of cabbages, and becometh a tree, that the fowls of the air may come and dwell under the branches thereof. 33. And he spake another parable unto them: The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and mingled with three measures of flour, until it was leavened through. 34. All these things spake JEsus unto the people by parables; and without parables spake he not unto them, 35. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables, and will utter the mysteries from the foundation of the world. 36. And JEsus sent the people away, and came home. And his disciples came to him, saying: Interpret unto us this parable of the tares of the field. 37. And he answered and said unto them: The Son of man is he that soweth good seed. The field is the world. The good seed are the children of the kingdom. The tares are the children of wickedness. 39. The enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the world. The cuts are the angels. 40. As the tares are weeded out, and burned with fire, so shall it be in the end of this world. 41. And the Son of man shall send his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all that offend, and them which do iniquity, 42. And they shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43. Then the righteous shall shine as the sun in their Father's kingdom. He who has ears to hear, let him hear! 44. But sometimes the kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hid in the field, which a man found, and hid, and went away rejoicing over the same, and sold all that he had, and bought the field. 45. But once the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant seeking goodly pearls. 46. And when he found a pearl of great price, he went and sold all that he had, and bought it. 47. But once the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net cast into the sea, to catch every kind. 48. But when it is full, they draw it out to the shore, and sit down, and gather the good into a vessel; but the rotten they cast away. 49. So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous 50. And they shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 51. And JEsus said unto them: Have ye understood all these things? They said: Yea, Lord. 22. Then said he, Therefore every scribe, being instructed unto the kingdom of heaven, is like unto a householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. 53. And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed from thence. 54. And he came into his own country, and taught them in their synagogues, and they were astonished, and said: Whence came this man such wisdom and deeds? 55. Is he not the son of a carpenter? Is not his mother's name Mary, and his brethren Jacob, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? 56. And his sisters, are they not all with us? Where did all this come from for him? 57. And were offended at him. And Jesus said unto them: A prophet is not counted less than in his own country, and in his own house. 58. And there he did not many signs because of their unbelief. (Matthew) Chapter 14 1. At that time came the rumour of JEsu before Herod the tetrarch. 2. And he said unto his servants: This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead, therefore he doeth such deeds. 3. For Herod had taken John, and bound him, and put him in prison, because of Herodias his brother Philip's wife. 4. For John had said unto him, It is not right for thee to have them. 5. And he would gladly have killed him, but was afraid of the people: for they took him for a prophet. 6. And it came to pass, when Herod was celebrating his anniversary, that the daughter of Herodias danced before them. This pleased Herod well. 7. Therefore he promised her with an oath, that he would give her what she would ask. 8. And when she had been prepared before by her mother, she said, Give me here on a dish the head of John the Baptist. 9. And the king was grieved: but for the oath's sake, and for the sake of them that sat at meat with him, he commanded it to be given her. 10. And sent and beheaded John in prison. 11. And his head was brought in a dish, and given unto the damsel; and she brought it unto her mother. 12. Then came his disciples, and took his body, and buried it, and came and preached JEsu. 13. And when Jesus heard it, he departed thence in a ship into a wilderness by himself. And when the people heard it, they followed him on foot out of the cities. 14. And JEsus went forth, and saw the great multitude; and he mourned for them, and healed their sick. 15. And in the evening his disciples came unto him, saying: This is a wilderness, and the night is fallen: send the people away from thee, that they may go into the markets, and buy them meat. 16. But Jesus saith unto them: There is no need that they should go; give ye them to eat. 17. And they said: We have nothing here but five loaves and two fishes. 18. And he said, Bring them hither unto me. 19. And he commanded the people to lie down on the grass, and took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks, and brake, and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the people. 20. And they did all eat, and were filled, and took up that which remained of the bread, twelve baskets full. - 21. And they that did eat were about five thousand men without wives and children. 22. And straightway JEsus constrained his disciples to enter into the ship, and to go before him, until he should send the people away. 23. And when he had sent away the people, he went up into a mountain by himself to pray. And in the evening he was there alone. 24. And the ship was already in the midst of the sea, and was troubled with the waves: for the wind was contrary unto them. 25. But in the fourth watch of the night JEsus came unto them, walking on the sea. 26. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were afraid, saying: It is a ghost! and cried out for fear. 27. And straightway JEsus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; fear not. 28. And Peter answered him, and said, Lord, if it be thou, let me come unto thee on the water. 29. And he said, Come hither. And Peter came out of the ship, and walked on the water, that he might come unto Jesus. 30. And he saw a strong wind. And he was afraid, and began to sink, and cried out, saying, Lord, help me. 31. And Jesus straightway put forth his hand, and took him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, why didst thou doubt? 32. And they entered into the ship, and the wind ceased. 33. And they that were in the ship came and fell down before him, and said: Truly you are the Son of God. 34. And they sailed over, and came into the land of Galilee. 35. And when the men of the same place knew that he was there, they sent out into all the country round about, and brought unto him all manner of uncleanness. 36. And besought him that they might touch the hem of his garment. And all they that touched it were made whole. (Matthew) Chapter 15 Of the statutes of men, the Canaanite woman, and other wondrous works of Christ. 1. Then came unto him the scribes and Pharisees of Jerusalem, saying: 2. Why transgressest thou the disciples of the elders? They wash not their hands when they eat bread. 3. And he answered and said unto them: Why then do ye transgress the commandment of God for yourselves? 4. God has commanded: You shall honor your father and mother; but he who curses his father and mother shall surely be put to death. 5. But ye teach, Whosoever saith to his father or to his mother, If I offer it, it is more profitable for thee; he doeth well. 6. Thus it is that no man honoureth his father or his mother henceforth: and ye have therefore done away with the commandment of God for your own sakes. 7. Ye hypocrites, Isaiah hath prophesied of you, saying: 8. This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips: but their heart is far from me. 9. But they serve me in vain, because they teach such doctrines as are not the commandments of men. 10. And he called the people unto him, and said unto them: Listen and hear. 11. That which goeth into the mouth defileth not a man: but that which cometh out of the mouth defileth a man. 12. Then came his disciples unto him, and said: Knowest thou also that the Pharisees were angry, when they heard the word? 13. But he answered and said, All plants which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. 14. Let them go! They are blind, and they lead the blind. But if one blind man lead another, they both fall into the pit. 15. Then Peter answered and said unto him, Interpret this parable unto us. 16. And JEsus said unto them, Are ye yet without understanding? 17. Do ye not yet perceive that whatsoever cometh into the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out by the natural course? 18. But that which goeth out of the mouth cometh out of the heart, and defileth the man. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts: murder, adultery, fornication, thievery, false witness, blasphemy. 20. These are the things that defile a man. But eating with unwashed hands does not defile a man. 21. And JEsus departed thence, and went into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. 22. And, behold, a Canaanitish woman went out of that border, and cried after him, saying, Lord, thou son of David, have mercy on me. My daughter is afflicted with the devil. 23. And he answered her not a word. Then came his disciples unto him, and besought him, saying: Let her go from thee: for she cried after us. 24. And he answered and said: I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 25. And she came and fell down before him, and said, Lord, help me. 26. But he answered and said, It is not good to take the children's bread, and to cast it to the dogs. 27. And she said, Yea, Lord; but yet the little dogs eat of the crumbs that fall from their masters' table. 28. And Jesus answered and said unto her, O Woman, thy faith is great: be it done unto thee according to thy will. And her daughter was healed that very hour. 29. And JEsus departed thence, and came unto the sea of Galilee, and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. 30. And there came unto him great multitudes, having with them the lame, and the blind, and the mute, and the crippled, and many others, and casting them before JEsu's feet, he healed them, 31. And the people marvelled, when they saw that the dumb spake, and the crippled were healed, and that the lame walked, and that the blind saw; and they praised the God of Israel. 32. And JESUS called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the people: for now they tarry with me three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away from me without meat, lest they faint in the way. 33. And his disciples said unto him, Whence shall we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so many people? 34. And JEsus said unto them: How much bread have ye? And they said, Seven, and a little fish. 35. And he commanded the people to pitch on the ground. 36. And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples; and the disciples gave to the people. 37. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up that which remained of the bread, seven baskets full. 38. And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children. 39. And when he had sent away the people, he entered into a ship, and came into the border of Magdala. (Matthew) Chapter 16 1. Then came the Pharisees and Sadducees unto him, tempting him, and demanding that he would let them see a sign from heaven. 2. But he answered and said, In the evening ye say, It shall be a good day: for the sky is red; 3. And in the morning ye say, There shall be a tempest this day: for the sky is red and cloudy. Ye hypocrites! Ye can judge the form of heaven; can ye not also judge the signs of this time? 4. This wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, save the sign of Jonas the prophet. And he left them, and went away. 5. And when his disciples were gone over, they had forgotten to take bread with them. 6. And JESUS said unto them, Take heed, and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 7. And they reasoned with themselves, and said: This is it, that we have not taken bread with us. 8. When JEsus heard it, he saith unto them: Ye of little faith, why are ye troubled, because ye took not bread with you? 9. Have ye not yet heard? Remember ye not the five loaves among the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10. Nor of the seven loaves among the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 11. How is it that ye understand not that I tell you of bread, when I say, Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees? 12. Then they understood that he had not said that they should beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 13. Then came JEsus into the region of the city Caesarea Philippi, and asked his disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is? 14. They said: Some say that thou art John the Baptist; others, that thou art Elijah; others, that thou art Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. 15. And he said unto them: Who do ye say that I am? 16. Then Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17. And JEsus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon the son of Jonas: for flesh and blood hath not revealed this unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19. And I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20. Then commanded he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was JESUS the Christian. 21. From that time began JEsus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders, and chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and rise again the third day. 22. And Peter took him, and addressed him, saying, Lord, spare thyself; let it not happen unto thee. 23. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Remove thee, Satan, from me. Thou art vexed with me: for thou meanest not what is godly, but what is human. 24. Then said JESUS unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26. What would it profit a man, if he should gain the whole world, and yet lose his soul? Or what can man give that he may redeem his soul? 27. For it shall come to pass, that the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels: and then shall he reward every man according to his works. 28. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom. (Matthew) Chapter 17 1. And after six days Jesus took Peter, and James, and John his brother, and led them aside into a high mountain. 2. And was glorified before them; and his face shone as the sun, and his raiment became white as the light. 3. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. 4. And Peter answered and said unto JESUS, Lord, here is good: if thou wilt, we will make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. 5. While he yet spake thus, behold, a cloud of light overshadowed them. And, behold, a voice out of the cloud said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; him shall ye hear. 6. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were sore afraid. 7. And JEsus came to them, and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. 8. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. 9. And when they were come down from the mount, JEsus commanded them, saying: Ye shall tell no man this vision, until the Son of man be risen from the dead. 10. And his disciples asked him, saying: What then say the scribes, that Elias must come before? 11. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Elijah shall come first, and set all things right. 12. But I say unto you, Elias is come already, and they have not known him, but have done unto him as they would. So shall also the Son of man suffer of them. 13. Then the disciples understood that he had spoken unto them of John the Baptist. 14. And when they were come unto the people, a man stood by him, and fell at his feet. 15. And said, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is moonstruck, and hath a grievous affliction; he falleth often into the fire, and often into the water. 16. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not help him. 17. And JESUS answered and said, O thou faithless and perverse kind, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer you? Bring him hither unto me. 18. And JEsus afflicted him; and the devil departed from him, and the child was healed in that hour. 19. And his disciples came unto him specially, and said: Why could we not cast him out? 20. But JEsus answered and said unto them: Because of your unbelief. For I say unto you: Verily if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence unto it; and it shall be removed, and nothing shall be impossible unto you. 21. But this kind goeth not out except by prayer and fasting. 22. And when they were in Galilee, Jesus saith unto them: It is come to pass, that the Son of man should be delivered into the hands of men. 23. And they shall kill him; and the third day he shall rise again. And they were greatly grieved. 24. And when they were come to Capernaum, they went to Peter, which took the groschen of interest, and said, Is not your master wont to give the groschen of interest? 25. And he said, Yea. And when he was come home, Jesus came before him, and said, What thinkest thou, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or interest, from their children or from strangers? 26. Then saith Peter unto him, Of the strangers. And Jesus said unto him, So are the children free. 27. But lest we offend them, go to the sea, and cast a line, and take the first fish that cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a stave. Take the same and give it to me and to you. (Matthew) Chapter 18 1. At that hour came the disciples unto Jesus, saying: Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2. Jesus called a child unto him, and set him in the midst of them. 3. And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye repent and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4. He therefore that bringeth himself low, as this child, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5. And whosoever shall receive one such child in my name receiveth me. 6. But whosoever shall offend one of these least ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the deepest part of the sea. 7. Woe to the world of trouble! Trouble must come, but woe to the man through whom trouble comes! 8. But if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life lame, or crippled, than to have two hands or two feet, and be cast into everlasting fire. 9. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, than to have two eyes, and be cast into the infernal fire. 10. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones. For I say unto you: Your angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. 11. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. 12. What think ye? If any man have an hundred sheep, and one of them go astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine upon the mountains, and go and seek that which is strayed? 13. And if he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more than the ninety and nine which are not lost. 14. Neither is it the will of your Father which is in heaven, that any of these little ones should perish. 15. But if thy brother sin against thee, go and punish him between thee and him only. If he hear thee, thou hast won thy brother. 16. If he hear thee not, take thee another, or two, that all may stand upon the mouth of two or three witnesses. 17. If he hear not them, let the congregation know it. If he hear not the congregation, let him be accounted a heathen and a publican. 18. Verily I say unto you: Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19. Further I say unto you: If two of you shall become one on the earth, why it is that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. 21. Then Peter came to him, and said, Lord, how often must I forgive my brother that sinneth against me? Is it enough seven times? 22. And JEsus said unto him, I tell thee, not seven times, but seventy times seven. 23. Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like unto a king that would reckon with his servants. 24. And when he began to reckon, there came before him one that owed him ten thousand pounds. 25. And when he had not money to pay, the LORD commanded to sell him, and his wife, and his children, and all that he had, and to pay. 26. And the servant fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me. I will pay thee all. 27. And the lord of that servant was grieved, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 28. And the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence. And he took hold of him, and choked him, saying, Pay me that thou owest me. 29. And his fellow servant fell down, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me. I will pay you for everything. 30. But he would not, but went and cast him into prison, until he should pay that which he owed. 31. And when his fellowservants saw these things, they were very sorrowful, and came and brought before their lord all that had happened. 32. And his lord brought him before him, and said unto him, O thou servant of the wicked! I have forgiven thee all this debt, because thou hast besought me; 33. Shouldest thou not also have mercy on thy fellow servant, as I have had mercy on thee? 34. And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the smiters, until he should pay all that he owed him. 35. So shall my heavenly Father do unto you, if ye forgive not your brother his trespasses from your hearts. (Matthew) Chapter 19 1. And it came to pass, when JEsus had finished this saying, he arose out of Galilee, and came into the borders of the land of Judaea beyond Jordan. 2. And much people followed him, and he healed them there. 3. And the Pharisees came unto him, and tried him, and said unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for any cause? 4. And he answered and said unto them: Have ye not read, that he which made man in the beginning made male and female, 5. And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and shall the two be one flesh? 6. They are not therefore two, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 7. And they said: Why then hath Moses commanded to give a bill of divorcement, and to separate himself from her? 8. And he said unto them: Moses allowed you to separate from your wives because of the hardness of your hearts; but from the beginning it was not so. 9. But I say unto you: Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery. And whosoever shall put away her that is put away, committeth adultery. 10. Then said the disciples unto him, If the case of a man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. 11. And he said unto them: The word is not for everyone, but for those to whom it is given. 12. For there are some that are cut off, that are born of the womb; and there are some that are cut off, that are cut off from men; and there are some that are cut off for their own sakes, for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that can grasp it, let him grasp it. 13. And little children were brought unto him, and he laid his hands upon them, and prayed. And the disciples began to look upon them. 14. But Jesus said, "Let the little children go, and do not hinder them from coming to me, for these are the riches of heaven. 15. And laid his hands upon them, and departed thence. 16. And, behold, one came to him, and said, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 17. And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one God. But if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. 18. And he said unto him, What? And Jesus said, Thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not commit adultery; thou shalt not steal; thou shalt not bear false witness; 19. Honor thy father and mother, and: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. 20. And the young man said unto him, I have kept all these things from my youth: what lack I yet? 21. And JESUS said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 22. When the young man heard the word, he departed grieved: for he had much goods. 23. And JESUS said unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 24. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. 25. When his disciples heard it, they were sore amazed, and said: Who then can be saved? 26. And JE looked upon them, and said unto them: With men it is impossible, but with God all things are possible. 27. Then Peter answered and said unto him, Behold, we have left all, and followed thee: what shall we have for it? 28. And Jesus said unto them: Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve stools, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29. And whosoever shall leave house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, the same shall take it an hundredfold, and shall inherit life eternal. 30. But many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first. (Matthew) Chapter 20 laborer in the vineyard of Christ Suffering. The disciples' ambition. Two blind men healed. 1. The kingdom of heaven is like unto a householder, which went out in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. 2. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace: 4. And he said unto them: Go ye also into the vineyard; and I will give you that which is right. 5. And they went their way. And again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. 6. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and said unto them: Why stand ye here all the day idle? 7. And they said unto him, There hath no man done unto us. And he said unto them: Go ye also into the vineyard, and that which is right shall be done unto you. 8. And when evening was come, the lord of the vineyard said unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, and lift up the last unto the first. 9. Then came they that were come about the eleventh hour, and received every man his penny. 10. And when the first came, they thought they would receive more: and they received every man his penny. 11. And when they had received it, they murmured against the father of the house. 12. And said: These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them like unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. 13. And he answered and said unto one of them: My friend, I do thee no wrong. Art thou not become one with me for a penny? 14. Take that which is thine, and go thy way. And I will give unto this last, as unto thee. 15. Or have I not power to do what I will with mine own? Dost thou therefore look askance, because I am so kind? 16. So the last shall be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few are chosen. 17. And he went up to Jerusalem, and took unto him the twelve disciples specially in the way, and said unto them: 18. Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death. 19. And they shall deliver him up to the Gentiles to be mocked, and scourged, and crucified. And on the third day he will rise again. 20. And the mother of Zebedee's children came to him with her sons, and fell down before him, and asked something of him. 21. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? And she said unto him, Let these my two sons sit in thy kingdom, the one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left. 22. But JEsus answered and said: Ye know not what ye ask. Can ye drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with baptism, as I am baptized with it? And they said unto him, Yea. 23. And he said unto them: My cup indeed ye shall drink, and with baptism, when I am baptized withal, ye shall be baptized: but to sit on my right hand and on my left is not mine to give, but to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. 24. And when the ten heard it, they were displeased with the two brethren. 25. But JESUS called them unto him, and said: Ye know that the rulers of the world reign, and the overlords have power. 26. It shall not be so among you: but if any man will be mighty among you, let him be your servant; 27. And whosoever will be chief, let him be your servant, 28. As the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life for a redemption of many. 29. And when they departed from Jericho, much people followed him. 30. And, behold, two blind men sat by the way side: and when they heard that Jesus passed by, they cried out, saying: O Lord, thou Son of David, have mercy on us. 31. But the people afflicted them, that they should hold their peace. But they cried out much more, saying: O Lord, thou Son of David, have mercy on us. 32. But JEsus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I should do unto you? 33. And they said unto him, Lord, that our eyes might be opened. And JEsum was sorry, and touched their eyes. And straightway their eyes were restored, and they followed him. (Matthew) Chapter 21 Christ's entry into Jerusalem. Purification of the temple Cursing of the fig tree and punitive sermon. 1. Now when they were come nigh unto Jerusalem to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, Jesus sent of his disciples two 2. And he said unto them: Go ye into the place which is before you, and soon ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her. Untie her, and bring her unto me. 3. And if any man shall say any thing unto you, say, The LORD hath need of them; and as soon as he hath done so, he will let you have them. 4. And all these things were done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet that saith: 5. Say ye unto the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy king cometh unto thee meekly, riding upon an ass, and upon a colt of the burthen ass. 6. And the disciples went and did as JEsus commanded them, 7. And they brought the ass and the colt, and laid their garments thereon, and set him thereon. 8. But many of the people spread their garments in the way, and others cut branches from the trees, and scattered them in the way. 9. And the people that went before and followed cried out, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD. Hosanna in the highest! 10. And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was stirred up, saying, Who is this? 11. And the people said, This is JEsus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee. 12. And Jesus went in unto the temple of God, and cast out all the sellers and buyers that were in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the changers, and the seats of the sellers of doves. 13. And said unto them: It is written: My house shall be called a house of prayer. But ye have made it a den of thieves. 14. And the blind and the lame went unto him in the temple, and he healed them. 15. And when the chief priests and scribes saw the miracles which he did, and the children crying in the temple, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David, they were moved with indignation. 16. And said unto him, Hearest thou also what these say? JEsus saith unto them: Yes! Have ye never read: Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou praised? 17. And he left them, and went out of the city to Bethany, and abode there. 18. And when he was come again into the city in the morning, he hungered. 19. And he saw a fig tree by the way, and went and found nothing thereon, save leaves only. And he said unto him, Now therefore let no fruit grow upon thee henceforth. And straightway the fig tree withered away. 20. And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, and said: How is the fig tree withered as soon as? 21. And Jesus answered and said unto them: Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this thing unto the fig tree, but if ye shall say unto this mountain, Take thee up, and cast thee into the sea; it shall be done. 22. And whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, if ye believe, ye shall receive it. 23. And when he came into the temple, as he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him and said: By what authority doest thou these things, and who gave thee authority? 24. And Jesus answered and said unto them: I also will ask you one word; and if ye tell me, I will tell you also by what authority I do these things. 25. Whence was the baptism of John? Was it from heaven, or from men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we say that it was from heaven, he will say unto us, Why then believed ye him not? 26. But if we say that it was of men, we must be afraid of the people: for they all took John for a prophet. 27. And they answered JEsu, and said: We know it not. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. 28. But what think ye? A man had two sons, and he went to the first and said, "Son, go and work in my vineyard today. 29. But he answered and said: I will not do it. And after that he repented, and went away. 30. And he went to the other, and spake the same. And he answered and said: Lord, yes! and did not go. 31. Which of the two did the will of the Father? They said unto him: The first. JEsus said unto them: Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots may well enter into the kingdom of heaven sooner than ye. 32. John came unto you, teaching you the right way, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him. And though ye saw it, yet repented ye not, that ye believed him afterward. 33. Hear another parable. There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and made a fence round about it, and digged a winepress therein, and built a tower, and put it out to the husbandmen, and went over the country. 34. And when the time of fruit was come, he sent his servants unto the husbandmen, that they might receive his fruit. 35. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beheaded the one, and killed the other, and stoned the third. 36. And again he sent other servants more than the first: and they did so unto them. 37. And afterward he sent his son unto them, saying, They shall shun my son. 38. And when the husbandmen saw the son, they said one to another, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us take his inheritance. 39. And they took him, and thrust him out into the vineyard, and slew him. 40. When therefore the Lord of the vineyard shall come, what shall he do to these husbandmen? 41. And they said unto him, He shall destroy the wicked, and shall give his vineyard to other husbandmen, which shall give him the fruit in due season. 42. And JEsus said unto them: Have ye never read in the scriptures: The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner: this is of the LORD, and it is marvellous in our sight? 43. Therefore I say to you: The kingdom of God shall be taken from you and given to the Gentiles who bear its fruit. 44. And whosoever shall fall upon this stone shall be broken to pieces; but upon whomsoever it shall fall, it shall crush him. 45. And when the chief priests and Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he spake of them. 46. And they sought how they might lay hold on him: but they feared the people, because they took him for a prophet. (Matthew) Chapter 22 Of the royal marriage, the groschen of interest, the resurrection, the most noble commandment, and the person of Christ. 1. And JEsus answering spake unto them again in parables, saying: 2. The kingdom of heaven is like unto a king that made a marriage for his son. 3. And sent his servants to call the guests to the marriage: and they would not come. 4. And again he sent out other servants, saying, Tell the guests, Behold, my supper is prepared, my oxen and my fatlings are slain, and all things are ready: come ye to the marriage. 5. But they despised it, and went away, the one to his field, and the other to his husbandry. 6. And some took his servants, and mocked them, and slew them. 7. And when the king heard it, he was wroth, and sent forth his armies, and slew those murderers, and burned their city. 8. Then said he unto his servants: The wedding is ready, but the guests were not worthy. 9. Go ye therefore into the highways, and invite to the marriage whom ye find. 10. And the servants went out into the streets, and gathered together whom they found, both evil and good. And the tables were all filled. 11. And the king went in to see the guests, and saw a man there that had no wedding garment on, 12. And said unto him, Friend, how camest thou in, and hast no wedding garment on? And he held his peace. 13. And the king said unto his servants, Bind his hands and his feet, and cast him out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth; 14. For many are called, but few are chosen. 15. Then the Pharisees went and held a council, as they caught him in his speech. 16. And they sent unto him their disciples with Herod's servants, saying: Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God aright, and askest after no man: for thou regardest not the reputation of men. 17. Therefore tell us, what thinkest thou? Is it right to give interest to the emperor, or not? 18. And when JEsus perceived their wickedness, he said, Ye hypocrites, why tempt ye me? 19. Give me the coin of interest. And they offered him a penny. 20. And he said unto them: Whose is the image and the superscription? 21. And they said unto him, The emperor's. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto GOD the things that are GOD's. 22. And when they heard it, they marvelled, and left him, and went away. 23. And the same day there came unto him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him 24. And they said: Master, Moses said, If a man die, and have not children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. 25. Now there were with us seven brethren. The first one married and died, and because he had no seed, he left his wife to his brother. 26. The like of the second, and of the third, unto the seventh. 27. Last of all, after all, the woman also died. 28. Now in the resurrection, whose wife shall she be among the seven? You have had them all. 29. And Jesus answered and said unto them: Ye err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. 30. In the resurrection they will neither be free nor allowed to be free, but they will be like the angels of God in heaven. 31. But have ye not read of the resurrection of the dead, which is told you of God, saying: 32. I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? But God is not a God of the dead, but of the living. 33. And when the people heard these things, they were astonished at his doctrine. 34. And when the Pharisees heard that he had shut up the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. 35. And one of them, a scribe, tempted him, saying: 36. Master, which is the noblest commandment in the law? 37. And JESUS said unto him, Thou shalt love GOD thy LORD with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38. This is the noblest and greatest commandment. 39. And the other is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40. In these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. 41. Now when the Pharisees were together, JEsus asked them 42. And said, How think ye of Christ? Whose son is he? They said: Davids. 43. And he said unto them: How then doth David in spirit call him a LORD, saying: 44. The LORD hath said unto my LORD, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 45. If therefore David call him a lord, how is he his son? 46. And no man was able to answer him a word, neither was it lawful for any man to ask him from that day forward. (Matthew) Chapter 22 Of the royal marriage, the groschen of interest, the resurrection, the most noble commandment, and the person of Christ. 1. And JEsus answering spake unto them again in parables, saying: 2. The kingdom of heaven is like unto a king that made a marriage for his son. 3. And he sent his servants to call the guests to the marriage: and they would not come. 4. And again he sent out other servants, saying, Tell the guests, Behold, my supper is prepared, my oxen and my fatlings are slain, and all things are ready: come ye to the marriage. 5. But they despised it, and went away, the one to his field, and the other to his husbandry. 6. And some took his servants, and mocked them, and slew them. 7. And when the king heard it, he was wroth, and sent forth his armies, and slew those murderers, and burned their city. 8. Then said he unto his servants: The wedding is ready, but the guests were not worthy. 9. Go ye therefore into the highways, and invite to the marriage whom ye find. 10. And the servants went out into the streets, and gathered together whom they found, both evil and good. And the tables were all filled. 11. And the king went in to see the guests, and saw a man there that had no wedding garment on, 12. And said unto him, Friend, how camest thou in, and hast no wedding garment on? And he held his peace. 13. And the king said unto his servants, Bind his hands and his feet, and cast him out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth; 14. For many are called, but few are chosen. 15. Then the Pharisees went and held a council, as they caught him in his speech. 16. And they sent unto him their disciples with Herod's servants, saying: Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God aright, and askest after no man: for thou regardest not the reputation of men. 17. Therefore tell us, what thinkest thou? Is it right to give interest to the emperor, or not? 18. And when JEsus perceived their wickedness, he said, Ye hypocrites, why tempt ye me? 19. Give me the coin of interest. And they offered him a penny. 20. And he said unto them: Whose is the image and the superscription? 21. And they said unto him, The emperor's. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto GOD the things that are GOD's. 22. And when they heard it, they marvelled, and left him, and went away. 23. And the same day there came unto him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him 24. And they said: Master, Moses said, If a man die, and have not children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. 25. Now there were with us seven brethren. The first one married and died, and because he had no seed, he left his wife to his brother. 26. The like of the second, and of the third, unto the seventh. 27. Last of all, after all, the woman also died. 28. Now in the resurrection, whose wife shall she be among the seven? You have had them all. 29. And Jesus answered and said unto them: Ye err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. 30. In the resurrection they will neither be free nor allowed to be free, but they will be like the angels of God in heaven. 31. But have ye not read of the resurrection of the dead, which is told you of GOD, saying: 32. I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? But God is not a God of the dead, but of the living. 33. And when the people heard these things, they were astonished at his doctrine. 34. And when the Pharisees heard that he had shut up the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. 35. And one of them, a scribe, tempted him, saying: 36. Master, which is the noblest commandment in the law? 37. And JESUS said unto him, Thou shalt love GOD thy LORD with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38. This is the noblest and greatest commandment. 39. And the other is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40. In these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. 41. Now when the Pharisees were together, JEsus asked them 42. And said, How think ye of Christ? Whose son is he? They said: David's. 43. And he said unto them: How then doth David in spirit call him a LORD, saying: 44. The LORD hath said unto my LORD, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 45. If therefore David call him a lord, how is he his son? 46. And no man was able to answer him a word, neither was it lawful for any man to ask him from that day forward. (Matthew) Chapter 23 Jesus warning against the scribes and Pharisees. 1. Then spake JEsus unto the people, and unto his disciples 2. And said, In Moses' seat sit the scribes and Pharisees. 3. All things therefore whatsoever they say unto you, that ye ought to observe, observe, and do; but after their works do ye not. They say it, and do it not. 4. But they bind heavy and intolerable burdens, and lay them upon men's necks; but they will not lift them with a finger. 5. And all their works do they that they may be seen of men. They make their slips wide, and the hems of their garments great. 6. they like to sit on top over the table and in the schools 7. And they delight to be saluted in the market, and to be called of men Rabbi. 8. But ye shall not be called Rabbi: for one is your Master, Christ: but ye are all brethren. 9. And call no man your father upon earth: for one is your Father which is in heaven. 10. And ye shall not be called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11. The greatest among you shall be your servant. 12. For he that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that abaseth himself shall be exalted. 13. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, which shut up the kingdom of heaven from men! Ye enter not in, neither let them that would enter in. 14. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, that eat widows' houses, and turn aside long prayers! Therefore ye shall receive the more condemnation. 15. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, which go about by land and sea, to make a fellow Jew! And when he is made, ye make him a child of hell, twofold more than ye are. 16. Woe unto you, ye blind leaders, that say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing: but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is guilty. 17. Ye fools and blind men, which is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? 18. Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing: but whosoever shall swear by the sacrifice that is above, he is guilty. 19. Ye fools and blind men, which is greater, the sacrifice, or the altar that sanctifieth the sacrifice? 20. He that sweareth by the altar sweareth by it, and by all that is above. 21. And whosoever shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. 22. And whosoever shall swear by heaven shall swear by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. 23. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye tithe the mint, and the dill, and the caraway, and leave behind the most grievous things of the law, judgment, and mercy, and faith. This ought ye to do, and that ought ye not to do. 24. Ye blind leaders, which behold gnats, and swallow camels! 25. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye keep the vessels and the vials clean outwardly, but inwardly they are full of spoil and filth. 26. Thou blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inward parts of the cup and dish, that the outward parts also may be clean. 27. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which outwardly appear beautiful, but inwardly are full of dead men's bones and all manner of filthiness. 28. So likewise ye; outwardly ye appear righteous before men, but inwardly ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. 29. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, which build the sepulchres of the prophets, and adorn the graves of the righteous. 30. Saying, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them of the blood of the prophets. 31. Ye bear witness of yourselves, that ye are the children of them that slew the prophets. 32. Come, ye also, fulfill the measure of your fathers. 33. Ye serpents, ye vipers, how shall ye escape the damnation of hell? 34. Therefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and of them ye shall kill and crucify some, and some ye shall scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city, 35. That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias the son of Barachiah, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. 36. Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation. 37. Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings; and ye would not! 38. Behold, your house shall be left unto you desolate. 39. For I say unto you: Ye shall not see me from henceforth, till ye say, Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD. (Matthew) Chapter 24 Of the destruction of the city of Jerusalem and the end of the world. 1. And JEsus departed from the temple, and his disciples came unto him, to shew him the buildings of the temple. 2. And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? Verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be broken. 3. And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, his disciples came unto him specially, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? 4. And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5. For many shall come under my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6. Ye shall hear wars, and the noise of wars: watch, and be not dismayed. All these things must first come to pass; but the end is not yet. 7. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there shall be pestilences, and grievous times, and earthquakes in divers places. 8. there will be first of all the need. 9. Then shall they deliver you up into tribulation, and shall kill you. And ye shall be hated for my name's sake of all nations. 10. Then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11. And many false prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many. 12. And because iniquity shall abound, love shall wax cold in many. 13. But he that endureth to the end shall be saved. 14. And the gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations: and then shall the end come. 15. When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of by Daniel the prophet, that it shall stand in the holy place, let him that readeth take heed, 16. Then let him that is in the land of the Jews flee to the mountains; 17. And he that is on the housetop, let him not come down to take any thing out of his house; 18. And he that is in the field, let him not return to take up his garments. 19. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! 20. But pray that your flight be not in the winter, or on the sabbath day, 21. For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the world began, neither ever shall be. 22. And if those days were not shortened, no man should be saved: but for the elect's sake the days are shortened. 23. Then if any man shall say unto you, Behold, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. 24. For false Christs and false prophets shall arise, and shall shew great signs and wonders, to deceive (where it is possible) even the elect. 25. Behold, I told you before! 26. Therefore when they shall say unto you: Behold, he is in the wilderness; go not forth: behold, he is in the chamber; believe it not. 27. For as the lightning goeth forth from the rising, and shineth even unto the going down; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 28. But where there is a carcase, there the eagles gather together. 29. But soon after the tribulation of those days the sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. 30. And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven. And then shall all kindreds of the earth howl, and shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31. And he shall send his angels with a great trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. 32. Learn a parable of the fig tree. When its branch becomes sapient and produces leaves, you know that summer is near. 33. So also, when ye see all these things, know that it is at the door. 34. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. 35. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 36. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not even the angels which are in heaven, but my Father only. 37. But as it was in the days of Noah, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38. For as they were in the days that were before the flood, they did eat, and they drank, and they did relieve themselves, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, 39. And they regarded it not, till the flood came, and took them all away: so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 40. Then shall two be in the field; one shall be accepted, and the other left. 41. Two shall grind at the mill; the one shall be accepted, and the other shall be left. 42. Therefore watch. For ye know not what hour your Lord shall come. 43. But this ye ought to know: If a householder knew the hour of the thief's coming, he would keep watch and not let him break into his house. 44. Therefore be ye also ready: for the Son of man shall come in an hour when ye think not. 45. Which then is a faithful and prudent servant, whom his lord hath set over his servants, to give them meat in due season? 46. Blessed is the servant when his lord comes and finds him doing thus! 47. Verily I say unto you, He shall set him over all his goods. 48. But that wicked servant shall say in his heart, My lord is not yet come, 49. And he began to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and to drink with the drunken: 50. Then shall the lord of that servant come in the day of which he is not minded, and in the hour which he is not minded, 51. And shall break him down, and shall give him his reward with the hypocrites. There shall be his weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew) Chapter 25 Of ten virgins, the familiar hundredweight, and the Last Judgment. 1. Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2. But five of them were foolish, and five were wise. 3. The foolish took their lamps, but they took not oil with them. 4. But the prudent took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5. And when the bridegroom departed, they were all drowsy, and fell asleep. 6. And at midnight there was a cry, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; come out to meet him. 7. Then all these virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. 8. And the foolish said unto the prudent, Give us of your oil: for our lamps are gone out. 9. And the wise answered and said: Not so, lest there be a breach between us and you. But go ye to the merchants, and buy for yourselves. 10. And as they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage. And the door was shut. 11. And last of all the other virgins came and said: Lord, Lord, open to us! 12. And he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know not yours. 13. Watch therefore. For ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man shall come. 14. As a man going over the country called his servants, and put his goods in their hands. 15. And to one he gave five talents, and to another two, and to a third one, to every man according to his ability: and he departed quickly. 16. And he that had received five talents went and traded with the same, and gained other five talents. 17. Likewise also he that had received two talents gained also two others. 18. And he that had received one went and made a pit in the ground, and hid his lord's money. 19. For a long time the lord of these servants came and kept account with them. 20. And he that had received five talents came near, and presented other five talents, and said, Lord, thou hast given me five talents: behold, I have gained therewith other five talents. 21. And his lord said unto him, O thou faithful and true servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things: I will set thee over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 22. And he also that had received two talents came near, and said, Lord, thou hast given me two talents: behold, I have gained with them two others. 23. And his lord said unto him, O thou faithful and true servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things: I will set thee over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 24. And he also that had received a talent came near, and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man: thou reapest where thou hast not sown, and gatherest where thou hast not strawed. 25. And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth. Behold, thou hast thine own. 26. But his master answered and said unto him, Thou mischievous and slothful servant! Did you know that I reap when I have not sown, and gather when I have not strewed?, 27. Then shalt thou have put my money to the moneychangers, and if I had come, I would have taken mine with usury. 28. Take therefore of him the talent, and give it to him that hath ten talents. 29. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath. 30. And cast out the worthless servant into the outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 31. But when the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory. 32. And all nations shall be gathered together before him. And he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth the sheep from the goats. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, and the goats on his left. 34. Then shall the king say unto them that are on his right hand: Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35. For I was hungry, and ye fed me. I have been thirsty, and ye have given me drink. I have been a guest, and ye have lodged me. 36. I was naked, and ye clothed me. I have been sick, and ye have visited me. I have been a prisoner, and ye have come unto me. 37. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38. When saw we thee a sojourner, and lodged, or naked, and clothed thee? 39. When have we seen thee sick, or taken captive, and come unto thee? 40. And the king shall answer and say unto them: Verily I say unto you: Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 41. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels. 42. I have been hungry, and ye have not fed me. I have been thirsty, and ye have not given me drink. 43. I have been a sojourner, and ye have not lodged me. I have been naked, and ye have not clothed me. I have been sick and a prisoner, and ye have not visited me. 44. Then shall they also answer him, and say, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or thirsty, or a sojourner, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not serve thee? 45. Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you: Inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of the least of these, ye did it not unto me. 46. And they shall go into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into everlasting life. (Matthew) Chapter 26 Christ anointed; fights in the garden after instituting Holy Communion; is betrayed, captured, and brought before spiritual judgment. 1. And it came to pass, when JEsus had finished all these sayings, he saith unto his disciples: 2. Ye know that after two days shall be the passover, and the Son of man shall be delivered up to be crucified. 3. And the chief priests and the scribes and the elders of the people were gathered together in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, 4. And took counsel how they might take JEsum with guile, and kill him. 5. And they said, Yea, not at the feast, lest there be a tumult among the people. 6. Now when JEsus was in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, 7. And there came unto him a woman having a jar of choice water, and poured it upon his head, as he sat at meat. 8. And when his disciples saw it, they were displeased, and said: What is the use of this rubbish? 9. This water might have been sold dearly, and given to the poor. 10. When JEsus perceived it, he saith unto them: Why trouble ye the woman? she hath done a good work for me. 11. Ye have always the poor with you: but me ye have not always. 12. Because she hath poured this water upon my body, she hath done that I should be buried. 13. Verily I say unto you, That wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in all the world, it shall also be spoken in remembrance of her, what she hath done. 14. And one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests. 15. And said, What will ye give me? I will betray him unto you. And they offered him thirty pieces of silver. 16. And from that time he sought occasion to betray him. 17. But on the first day of sweet bread the disciples came to JEsu, and said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover? 18. And he said, Go into the city to one, and say unto him, The Master saith unto thee, My time is here: I will keep the passover with thee with my disciples. 19. And the disciples did as JEsus commanded them, and prepared the passover. 20. And in the evening he sat down to meat with the twelve. 21. And as they were eating, he said, Verily I say unto you, One of you shall betray me. 22. And they were very sorrowful, and lifted up every one of them, and said unto him, Lord, is it I? 23. And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish shall betray me. 24. The Son of man passeth away, as it is written of him: but woe unto that man, by whom the Son of man is betrayed! It were better for him that the same man were never yet born. 25. Then answered Judas that betrayed him, and said, Is it I, Rabbi? And he said unto him, Thou sayest it. 26. And as they were eating, JESUS took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, Take, eat; this is my body. 27. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. 28. This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29. I say unto you: From henceforth I will drink no more of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. 30. And when they had sung the hymn, they went out unto the mount of Olives. 31. Then said JEsus unto them: This night ye shall all be offended in me: for it is written: I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered. 32. But when I rise again, I will go before you into Galilee. 33. And Peter answered and said unto him, Though they all be offended at thee, yet will I never be offended. 34. And JESUS said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 35. Peter saith unto him, And if I should die with thee, I will not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples. 36. Then came JE with them unto a court which was called Gethsemane, and said unto his disciples, Sit ye here, until I go and pray. 37. And he took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to mourn and to tremble. 38. Then said JEsus unto them: My soul is troubled even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. 39. And he went a little, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. 40. And he came to his disciples, and found them sleeping, and said unto Peter, Can ye not watch with me one hour? 40. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. 42. And again he went and prayed, saying, My Father, is it not possible that this cup should pass from me, and I drink it? so let thy will be done. 43. And he came, and found them sleeping again, and their eyes were full of sleep. 44. And he left them, and went again, and prayed the third time, and spake the same words. 45. Then came he to his disciples, and said unto them: Ah, will ye now sleep and rest? Behold, the hour is here, that the Son of man should be delivered into the hands of sinners. 46. Arise, let us go! Behold, he is here who betrays me! 47. And while he yet spake, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48. And the traitor had given them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that is he; seize him. 49. And straightway he came to JEsu, and said, Hail, Rabbi; and kissed him. 50. And JEsus said unto him, My friend, why art thou come? And they came and laid hands on JEsus, and took him. 51. And, behold, one of them that were with JEsu put forth his hand, and drew out his sword, and smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 52. Then said JEsus unto him, Put up thy sword into his place: for he that taketh the sword shall perish by the sword. 53. Or thinkest thou that I cannot pray my Father, that he would send me more than twelve legions of angels? 54. But how shall the scripture be fulfilled? It must go thus. 55. At that hour said JESUS unto the multitudes: Ye are come out as against a murderer with swords and staves to seize me: for I sat daily with you, and taught in the temple, and ye took me not. 56. But all these things came to pass, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples left him and fled. 57. And they that had taken JEsum brought him unto Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and elders were gathered together. 58. And Peter followed him afar off unto the palace of the high priest, and went in, and sat with the servants, that he might see whither it went out. 29. And the chief priests, and the elders, and all the council, sought to bear false witness against JEsum, that they might put him to death, 60. And found none. And though many false witnesses came forward, yet they found none. And at the last there came two false witnesses 61. And they said: He hath said, I can break down the temple of God, and build the same in three days. 62. And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing to the things which these witness against thee? 63. But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. 64. And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest it. But I say unto you, That from henceforth ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. 65. And the high priest rent his clothes, and said, He hath blasphemed God: what need have we any further testimony? Behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. 66. what think ye? They answered and said: He is guilty of death. 67. And they spat in his face, and smote him with their fists. And some of them smote him in the face 68. And they said: Prophesy unto us, O Christ, who is it that smote thee? 69. And Peter sat without in the palace. And there came a maid unto him, and said, And thou also wast with JEsu of Galilee. 70. But he denied before them all, saying: I know not what thou sayest. 71. And as he went out at the door, another saw him, and said unto them that were there: This also was with JEsu of Nazareth. 72. And he denied again, and sware unto it: I know not man. 73. And after a little while they that sat by came and said unto Peter, Verily thou also art one of these: for thy speech betrayeth thee. 74. then began he to curse himself, and to swear: I know not man. And straightway the cock crowed. 75. Then Peter remembered the words of JESUS, saying unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly. (Matthew) Chapter 27 Christ's suffering before the temporal court, crucifixion, death entrusted with miracles, and burial. 1. And it came to pass in the morning, that all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against JEsum, to put him to death. 2. And they bound him, and led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. 3. And when Judas, which had betrayed him, saw that he was condemned to death, he repented, and brought again the thirty shekels of silver unto the chief priests and to the elders. 4. And said: I have done evil in that I have betrayed innocent blood. 5. And they said: What is that to us? Then watch thou! And he cast the pieces of silver into the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself. 6. But the chief priests took the pieces of silver, and said: It is not fit that we should put them into the treasury: for it is blood money. 7. And they took counsel, and bought a potter's field for it, for the burying of the pilgrims. 8. Therefore the same field is called the field of blood unto this day. 9. Then is fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, They have taken thirty shekels of silver, to pay for him that was sold, whom they bought of the children of Israel, 10. And have given them for a potter's sack, when the LORD commanded me. 11. And Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the king of the Jews? And JEsus said unto him, Thou sayest it. 12. And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. 13. And Pilate said unto him, Hearest thou not how hard they accuse thee? 14: And he answered him not a word: so that even the governor marvelled greatly. 15. And it was the custom of the governor at the feast to release unto the people one prisoner whom they would. 16. And he had at that time a prisoner, a peculiar one above others, whose name was Barabbas. 17. And when they were gathered together, Pilate saith unto them: Which will ye that I release unto you, Barabbas, or Jesus, which is said to be Christ? 18. For he knew well that they had delivered him up out of envy. 19. And when he sat in the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with this righteous man: I have suffered much this day in a dream on his account. 20. But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the people, that they should ask for Barabbas, and kill JEsum. 21. And the governor answered and said unto them: Which of these two will ye that I should release unto you? They said: Barabbas. 22. Pilate saith unto them: What then shall I do with JEsu, who is said to be Christ? They all said, Let him be crucified. 23. And the governor said, What evil hath he done? But they cried out still more, saying: Let him be crucified! 24. And when Pilate saw that he made nothing, but that there was a much greater tumult, he took water and washed his hands before the people, and said: I am innocent of the blood of this righteous man: see ye to it! 25. And all the people answered and said, His blood be upon us, and upon our children. 26. Then he delivered Barabbas unto them; but he scourged JEsum, and delivered him to be crucified. 27. Then the soldiers of the governor took JEsum unto them into the judgment house, and gathered the whole multitude about him. 28. And they stripped him, and put a purple robe upon him. 29. And they fenced a crown of thorns, and put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand, and bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying: Hail, King of the Jews! 30. And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote his head therewith. 31. And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of his robe, and put on his garments, and led him away to crucify him. 32. And going out, they found a man of Cyrene named Simon, whom they compelled to bear his cross. 33. And when they were come to the place called Golgotha, which is the place of the skull, 34. And they gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he tasted it, he would not drink. 35. And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, and cast lots thereon, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet: They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture they cast lots. 36. And they sat there tending his. 37. And on the top of his head they wrote the cause of his death, saying, This is Jesus king of the Jews. 38. And there were two murderers crucified with him, one on the right hand, and one on the left. 39. And they that passed by blasphemed him, and shook their heads. 40. And they said: Thou that breakest down the temple of God, and buildest it in three days, help thyself! If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross. 41. Likewise also the chief priests mocked him, and the scribes, and the elders, saying: 42. He hath helped others, and cannot help himself. If he be the king of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. 43. He hath trusted in God; now deliver him, lure him: for he hath said, I am the son of God. 44. Likewise also the murderers that were crucified with him reviled him. 45. And from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. 46. And about the ninth hour JEsus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama asabthani? that is, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? 47. And some of them, when they heard it, said: He calleth Elias. 48. And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it upon a reed, and watered it. 49. And the rest said: Wait, let us see if Elijah will come and help him. 50. But JEsus cried out again with a loud voice, and died. 51. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. 52. And the earth shook, and the rocks were rent, and the graves were opened, and many bodies of the saints that slept arose, 53. And went out of the tombs after his resurrection, and came into the Holy City, and appeared unto many. 54. But the centurion, and they that were with him, and kept JEsum, when they saw the earthquake, and the things that were done, were sore afraid, and said: Verily, this was the Son of God! 55. And there were many women watching afar off, which followed JEsu out of Galilee, and served him, 56. Among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of the children of Zebedee. 57. And in the evening there came a rich man from Arimathea, whose name was Joseph, who also was a disciple of JEsu. 58. And he went unto Pilate, and asked him for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded that it should be given him. 59. And Joseph took the body, and wrought it in clean linen. 60. And he laid him in his own new sepulchre, which he had hewn out of a rock, and rolled a great stone before the door of the sepulchre, and departed. 61. And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. 62. The next day, which followed the preparation day, the chief priests and Pharisees came all to Pilate. 63. and said: Lord, we thought that this deceiver spake while he yet lived: I will rise again after three days. 64. Therefore command that the sepulchre be kept until the third day, lest his disciples come and steal him away, saying unto the people, He is risen from the dead: and let the last deceit be worse than the first. 65. Pilate saith unto them: There ye have the keepers; go and keep as ye know. 66. And they went and covered the sepulchre with keepers, and sealed the stone. (Matthew) Chapter 28 Christ's resurrection and command to his disciples. 1. Now in the evening of the sabbath, which began in the morning of the first solemnity of the sabbaths, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. 2. And, behold, there was a great earthquake. For the angel of the LORD came down from heaven, and stood by, and rolled away the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 3. And his form was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow. 4. And the keepers were terrified with fear, and became as though they were dead. 5. But the angel answered and said unto the consecrators: Fear not: I know that ye seek Jesus crucified. 6. He is not here: he is risen, as he said. Come and see the place where the Lord has lain. 7. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead. And, behold, he shall go before you into Galilee; and there shall ye see him. Behold, I have told you. 8. And they went out quickly unto the sepulchre with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And as they went, they told his disciples, 9. And, behold, JEsus met them, and said, Hail! And they came unto him, and took hold of his feet, and fell down before him. 10. Then said JEsus unto them: Fear not. Go and tell my brethren, that they may go into Galilee; and there they shall see me. 11. And as they went, behold, some of the keepers came into the city, and told the chief priests all things that were done. 12. And they came together with the elders, and held a council, and gave money enough to the soldiers. 13. And said, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept. 14. And if it come to pass with the governor, we will quiet him, and make you safe. 15. And they took the money, and did as they were taught. This hath been a common saying among the Jews unto this day. 16. And the eleven disciples went up into Galilee into a mountain, whither Jesus had appointed them. 17. And when they saw him, they fell down before him: but some doubted. 18. And JEsus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 20. And teach them to observe all that I have commanded you. And, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] Gospel of Mark ^ Chapter 1 Christ baptized by John, is tempted, preaches, calls disciples and today the sick. 1. This is the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, 2. As it is written in the prophets: Behold, I send my angel before thee, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 3. It is the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make his paths straight. 4. John, being in the wilderness, baptized, and preached of the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. 5. And there went out unto him all the country of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. 6. And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a leathern girdle about his loins, and did eat locusts and wild honey. 7. And he preached, saying, There cometh one after me stronger than I, to whom I am not sufficient to stoop down before him, and to loose the thongs of his shoes. 8. I baptize you with water; but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. 9. And it came to pass at that time, that JEsus came from Galilee of Nazareth, and was baptized of John in Jordan. 10. And straightway he came up out of the water, and saw heaven opened, and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove. 11. And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 12. And soon the spirit drove him into the wilderness. 13. And was there in the wilderness forty days tempted of Satan, and was with the beasts, and the angels ministered unto him. 14. And after that John was delivered, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God. 15. And said, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is come. Repent, and believe in the gospel. 16. And as he went by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting their nets into the sea: for they were fishermen. 17. And JEsus said unto them: Follow me. I will make you fishers of men. 18. And straightway they left their nets, and followed him. 19. And as he passed a little way thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, mending the nets in the ship: and straightway he called them. 20. And they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hirelings, and followed him. 21. And they went to Capernaum: and straightway on the sabbaths he went into the synagogue, and taught. 22. And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught mightily, and not as the scribes. 23. And there was in their synagogue a man possessed with an unclean spirit, crying out 24. And said, Hold, what have we to do with thee, JEsus of Nazareth? Thou art come to destroy us. I know who you are, the Holy One of God. 25. And JEsus afflicted him, saying, Be silent, and depart from him. 26. And the unclean spirit tore him, and cried with a loud voice, and went out of him. 27. And they were all amazed, and asked one another, saying: What is this? What new doctrine is this? He giveth power unto unclean spirits, and they obey him. 28. And soon his tidings went abroad into the borders of Galilee. 29. And they went out of the synagogue quickly, and came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30. And Simon's wife lay sick of the fever: and straightway they told him of her. 31. And he came unto her, and lifted her up, and held her by the hand: and the fever soon left her, and she ministered unto them. 32. And in the evening, when the sun was down, they brought unto him all manner of sick and possessed. 33. And all the city was gathered together at the door. 34. And he helped many that were sick with divers diseases, and cast out many devils, and suffered not the devils to speak: for they knew him. 35. And in the morning before day he arose, and went out. And JEsus went into a desert place, and prayed there. 36. And Peter with them that were with him hasted after him. 37. And when they found him, they said unto him, Every man seeketh thee. 38. And he said unto them: Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for to this end am I come. 39. And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, casting out devils. 40. And there came unto him a leper, and besought him, and kneeled down before him, and said unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 41. And it grieved JEsum, and put forth his hand, and touched him, and said: I will do it; be purified! 42. And when he thus spake, the leprosy departed from him straightway, and he was clean. 43. And JEsus afflicted him, and straightway cast him away. 44. And said unto him, See thou say nothing unto any man, but go and shew thyself unto the priest, and offer for thy cleansing the things which Moses commanded, for a testimony against them. 45. And when he was come out, he began to speak of it much, and to make the story known; so that he could no more go into the city openly, but was without in the desolate places. And they came to him from every quarter. (Mark) Chapter 2 Of the gouty man, Matthew's calling, and Christ's responsibility against the Pharisees. 1. And after some days he went again to Capernaum: and it was known that he was in the house. 2. And straightway many were gathered together, so that there was no room for them, even without the door. And he spake unto them the word. 3. And there came unto him certain, bringing a man sick of the palsy, borne of four. 4. And when they could not come to him before the people, they uncovered the roof where he was, and digged it up, and let down the bed where the sick of the palsy lay within. 5. And when JEsus saw their faith, he saith unto the sick of the palsy: My son, thy sins are forgiven thee. 6. And there were certain scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts: 7. How speaketh this blasphemy? Who can forgive sin but God alone? 8. And soon perceiving in his spirit that they reasoned so within themselves, JEsus saith unto them: Why think ye these things in your hearts? 9. Which is easier, to say unto the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? 10. But that ye might know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, he saith unto the sick of the palsy: 11. I tell you, get up, take up your bed and go home! 12. And straightway he arose, and took up his bed, and went out before all: so that they were all amazed, and praised God, and said: We have never seen such things. 13. And he went out again by the sea; and all the people came unto him, and he taught them. 14. And as JEsus passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. 15. And it came to pass, as he sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat at meat with JEsu and his disciples. For there were many of them following him. 16. And the scribes and Pharisees, when they saw that he did eat with publicans and sinners, said unto his disciples, Why eateth he and drinketh with publicans and sinners? 17. When JEsus heard it, he saith unto them: The strong have no need of a physician, but the sick. I am come to call sinners to repentance, and not the righteous. 18. And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fasted much; and there came some that said unto him, Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, and thy disciples fast not? 19. And JEsus said unto them: How can the bridegrooms fast, while the bridegroom is with them? As long as the bridegroom is with them, they cannot fast. 20. But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. 21. No man putteth a rag of new cloth upon an old garment: for the new rag is rent from the old, and the rent is made worse. 22. And no man putteth must into old wineskins: otherwise the must breaketh the wineskins, and the wine is spilled, and the wineskins perish. But they shall put must into new wineskins. 23. And it came to pass, as he walked through the seed on the sabbath day, his disciples began, as they went, to pluck up ears of corn. 24. And the Pharisees said unto him: Behold, what do thy disciples on the sabbath day that is not right? 25. And he said unto them: Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was hungry, and they that were with him? 26. How he entered into the house of GOD in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which none but the priests were permitted to eat; and he gave it also unto them that were with him? 27. And he said unto them: The Sabbath was made for man's sake, and not man for the Sabbath's sake. 28. So the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. (Mark) Chapter 3 Of the withered hand, Christ's flight, apostles' election, scribes' blasphemy, God's friends. 1. And he went again to the school. And there was a man there who had a withered hand. 2. And they watched him, whether he would heal him even on the sabbath day, that they might have a cause against him. 3. And he said unto the man with the withered hand, Come forth. 4. And he said unto them, Shall one do good on the sabbath day, or do evil, preserve life, or kill? But they held their peace. 5. And he looked round about on them with wrath, and was grieved at their hardened hearts, and said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he stretched it out, and his hand was healed like the other. 6. And the Pharisees went out, and straightway took counsel with Herod's servants concerning him, how they might destroy him. 7. But JEsus departed with his disciples unto the sea. And much people followed him out of Galilee, and out of Judea. 8. And from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from beyond Jordan, and them that dwell about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude that heard his deeds, and came unto him. 9. And he spake unto his disciples, that they should keep him a little ship for the people's sake, that they should not press him. 10. For he healed many of them, so that they came upon him, all that were afflicted, that they might touch him. 11. And when the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him, and cried, saying: You are the Son of God! 12. And he afflicted them sore, that they made him not known. 13. And he went up into a mountain, and called unto him those whom he would, and they went unto him. 14. And he ordained the twelve to be with him, and to send them forth to preach, 15. And that they had power to heal diseases, and to cast out devils, 16. and gave Simon the name Peter; 17. And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, and gave them the name of Bnehargem, which is said, Children of thunder; 18. And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon of Cana. 19. And Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 20. And they came home, and there the people came together again, so that they had not room to eat. 21. And when they that were about him heard it, they went out, and would have held him: for they said: He shall come out of his senses. 22. And the scribes that were come down from Jerusalem said: He hath Beelzebub, and by the chief of the devils he casteth out devils. 23. And he called them together, and spake unto them in parables: How can one Satan cast out another? 24. If a kingdom be divided among itself, it may not stand. 25. And if a house be divided among itself, it may not stand. 26. If Satan therefore set himself against himself, and be at variance with himself, he cannot stand, but is finished. 27. No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man, and then spoil his house. 28. Verily I say unto you, All sins are forgiven the children of men, even blasphemy, that they may blaspheme against GOD; 29. But he that blasphemeth the Holy Ghost hath no remission for ever, but is guilty of everlasting judgment. 30. For they said, He hath an unclean spirit. 31. And his mother and his brethren came and stood without, and sent for him, and called him. 32. And the people sat about him. And they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without ask for thee. 33. And he answered them, and said: Who is my mother and my brothers? 34. And looking round about on the disciples that sat about him in a circle, he said, Behold my mother and my brethren. 35. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother. (Mark) Chapter 4 Many a parable. Stilling of the turbulent sea. 1. And he began again to teach by the sea. And much people gathered unto him, so that he entered into a ship, and sat upon the face of the waters. And all the people stood upon the land by the sea. 2. And he preached unto them a long time by parables. And in his preaching he spake unto them: 3. Hearken! Behold, a sower went forth to sow. 4. And it came to pass, as he sowed, that some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured them. 5. Some things fell into the stony places, because they had not much earth; and they rose up quickly, because they had not deep earth. 6. And when the sun was risen, it withered, and because it had no root, it withered. 7. And some fell among the thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it brought forth no fruit: 8. And some fell on good ground, and brought forth fruit, which increased and grew; and some bore thirtyfold, and some sixtyfold, and some an hundredfold. 9. And he said unto them: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 10. And when he was alone, they that were about him, and the twelve, asked him this parable. 11. And he said unto them: It is given unto you to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without it all is revealed in parables, 12. That they may see with their eyes, and not know; and that they may hear with their ears, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. 13. And he said unto them: If ye understand not this parable, how shall ye understand all the rest? 14. the sower sows the word. 15. And these are they which are in the way where the word is sown, and they have heard it: and Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16. So are they also which are sown on stony ground: when they have heard the word, they soon receive it with joy. 17. And have no root in them, but are fickle: when tribulation or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are vexed. 18. And these are they which are sown among thorns, which hear the word, 19. And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and many other lusts, enter in, and choke the word, and remain without fruit. 20. And these are they which are sown in a good land, which hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit; some thirtyfold, and some sixty, and some an hundred. 21. And he said unto them: Do men also kindle a light to put it under a bushel, or under a table? Not at all; but set it upon a candlestick. 22. For there is nothing hid, that shall not be revealed; neither is there anything secret, that shall not come forth. 23. he who has ears to hear, let him hear! 24. And said unto them, Take heed what ye hear. With what measure ye measure, they shall measure you again: and it shall be added unto you that hear these things. 25. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. 26. And he said, The kingdom of God is as when a man casteth seed upon the land. 27. And he sleepeth, and riseth up night and day, and the seed riseth and groweth, that he knoweth it not. 28. For the earth bringeth forth of itself first the grass, and after that the ears of corn, and after that the full wheat in the ears. 29. But when it hath brought forth the fruit, he sendeth forth the sickle quickly: for the harvest is come. 30. And he said, To whom will we liken the kingdom of God, and by what likeness will we model it? 31. As a grain of mustard seed, when it is sown in the field, it is the least of all the seeds of the earth. 32. And when it is sown, it increaseth, and becometh greater than all cabbages, and getteth forth great branches; so that the fowls of the air dwell under the shadow thereof. 33. And by many such parables spake he the word unto them, after that they heard it. 34. And without a parable spake he nothing unto them: but in particular he expounded all things unto his disciples. 35. And the same day in the evening he said unto them: Let us pass over. 36. And they sent the people away, and took him as he was in the ship: and there were more ships with him. 37. And there arose a great whirlwind, and cast the waves into the ship, so that the ship was filled. 38. And he was in the back of the ship, sleeping on a pillow. And they awaked him, and said unto him, Master, askest thou nothing after this, that we perish? 39. And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, and be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40. And he said unto them: How are ye fearful? How that ye have no faith? 41. And they feared greatly, and said one to another, Who is this? For the wind and the sea are obedient to him. (Mark) Chapter 5 Of the possessed, the bloody woman, and Jairus' little daughter. 1. And they came beyond the sea, into the coasts of the Gadarenes. 2. And when he was come out of the ship, there ran upon him And straightway there came out of the grave a man possessed with an unclean spirit, 3. Who had his dwelling in the tombs. And no man could bind him, neither with chains. 4. For he had often been bound with fetters and chains, and had broken off the chains, and broken in pieces the fetters; and no man was able to tame him. 5. And he was always day and night in the mountains and in the tombs, crying out and striking himself with stones. 6. And when he saw JEsus afar off, he ran and fell down before him, and cried with a loud voice, saying: 7. What have I to do with thee, O JEsu, thou Son of GOD, the Most High? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not! 8. And he said unto him, Depart, thou unclean spirit, from man. 9. And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered and said, Legion is my name: for ours is much. 10. And he besought him greatly that he would not drive them out of the same region. 11. And there was there by the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. 12. And the devils all besought him, saying: Let us go into the swine! 13. And immediately Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine; and the flock rushed with a tempest into the sea, (but their number was about two thousand,) and were drowned in the sea. 14. And the swineherds fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what was done. 15. And they came to JEsu, and saw him that was possessed with devils sitting, clothed, and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16. And they that had seen it told them what had befallen him that was possessed with the devil, and of the swine. 17. And they began and besought him to depart out of their coasts. 18. And when he was come into the ship, he that was possessed with the devil besought him to be with him. 19. But JEsus would not suffer him, but said unto him, Go into thine house, and unto thine own, and tell them how great good the LORD hath done thee, and hath had mercy on thee. 20. And he went and began to proclaim in the ten cities how great good JEsus had done him. And every man marvelled. 21. And when JEsus was come over again in the ship, much people gathered unto him, and were by the sea. 22. And, behold, there came one of the rulers of the synagogue, named Jairus. And when he saw him, he fell down at his feet. 23. And besought him greatly, saying, My daughter is in her last days: come, lay thine hand upon her, that she may be healed, and live. 24. And he went with him. And there followed him much people, and they pressed him. 25. And there was a woman which had had the issue of blood twelve years. 26. And she had suffered many things of many physicians, and had consumed all her goods: and she was not helped, but rather was made worse. 27. When she heard of JEsu, she came up behind the people, and touched his garment. 28. For she said, If I but touch his garment, I shall be healed. 29. And straightway the fountain of her blood dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her plague. 30. And JEsus immediately perceived in himself the power that went out of him, and turned to the people, and said, Who hath touched my garments? 31. And the disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, saying, Who touched me? 32. And he looked round about for her that had done this thing. 33. And the woman was afraid, and trembled (for she knew what was done to her), and came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 34. And he said unto her, My daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace, and be well from thy plague. 35. While he was still talking, some of the servants of the head of the school came and said: Your daughter has died, why do you continue to trouble the master? 36. And Jesus soon heard the words which were spoken, and said unto the ruler of the synagogue, Fear not: only believe. 37. And left none to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. 38. And he came into the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw the tumult; and they that were there greatly weeping and wailing 39. And he went in, and said unto them: Why do ye gambol and weep? The child is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. 40. And he drove them all out, and took with him the father of the child, and the mother, and they that were with him, and went in, where the child lay. 41. And he took the child by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha, kumi; that is interpreted, Maid, I say unto thee, arise. 42. And straightway the damsel arose, and walked: and she was twelve years old. And they were exceedingly amazed. 43. And he forbade them sternly, that no man should know it, and said that they should feed her. (Mark) Chapter 6 Christ's scorn, sending of the apostles, John's beheading, miraculous feeding and help. 1. And he departed thence, and went into his own country: and his disciples followed him. 2. And when the sabbath was come, he began to teach in their synagogue: and many that heard it marvelled at his doctrine, and said: Whence cometh this? and: What wisdom is this that is given unto him, and such works as are done by his hands? 3. Is he not the carpenter, the son of mamma, and the brother of James, and Joses, and Judas, and Simon? Are not his sisters also all here with us? And they were offended at him. 4. And Jesus said unto them: A prophet is not counted less than in his own country, and at home with his own. 5. And he could not do a single deed there; without a little infirmity he laid his hands on them, and healed them. 6. And he marvelled at their unbelief. And he went about into the spots in the circle, and taught. 7. And he called the twelve, and began to send them two by two, and gave them power over the unclean spirits. 8. And commanded them that they should carry nothing with them by the way, save only a staff, and no bag, and no bread, and no money in their girdles, 9. But were shod, and that they put not on two coats. 10. And he said unto them: Wherever ye enter into an house, there abide within, until ye depart thence. 11. And they that receive you not, nor hear you, come out from thence, and shake off the dust of your feet for a testimony against them. I say unto you: Verily Sodom and Gomorrah shall be more tolerable in the day of judgment than that city. 12. And they went out preaching that men should repent. 13. And cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and made them whole. 14. And it came to pass before Herod the king, (for his name was now known,) that he said, John the Baptist is risen from the dead; therefore doth he these things. 15. And some said: He is Elijah: but some said, He is a prophet, or one of the prophets. 16. And when Herod heard it, he said, It is John whom I have beheaded; he is risen from the dead. 17. And Herod sent and took John, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had delivered her. 18. And John said unto Herod: It is not right for thee to have thy brother's wife. 19. And Herodias pursued after him, and would have killed him, but could not. 20. And Herod feared John; for he knew that he was a devout and holy man; and kept him, and obeyed him in many things, and heard him gladly. 21. And it came to pass on a convenient day, that Herod gave a supper in his yearly feast unto the rulers and captains and chief men of Galilee. 22. And the daughter of Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat at meat. Then said the king unto the damsel, Ask of me what thou wilt, and I will give it thee. 23. And he sware unto her an oath: What thou shalt ask of me, I will give thee, even unto the half of my kingdom. 24. And she went out, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? She said: The head of John the Baptist. 25. And she went in quickly with haste unto the king, and besought, saying: I will that thou give me now immediately upon a dish the head of John the Baptist. 26. The king was grieved; but for the oath's sake, and for the sake of them that sat at the table, he would not suffer them to do a wrong. 27. And straightway the king sent the executioner, and commanded his head to be brought. And he went and beheaded him in the prison. 28. And he bare his head upon a dish, and gave it unto the maid, and the maid gave it unto her mother. 29. And when his disciples heard it, they came and took up his body, and laid it in a sepulchre. 30. And the apostles came together unto JEsu, and told him all these things, and what they had done and taught. 31. And he said unto them: Let us go particularly into a wilderness, and rest a little. For there were many of them that went from time to time, and had not time enough to eat. 32. And he went in a ship unto a wilderness in particular. 33. And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran there together on foot out of all the cities, and preceded them, and came unto him. 34. And JEsus went out, and saw the great multitude; and he was grieved of them, because they were as sheep having no shepherd: and he began a long sermon. 35. And when the day was almost expired, his disciples came unto him, saying: It is desolate here, and the day is now gone. 36. Send them away from thee, that they may go into the villages and villages round about, and buy themselves bread: for they have not food. 37. But JEsus answered and said unto them: Pray ye them to eat. And they said unto him, Shall we then go and buy bread worth two hundred pennies, and give them to eat? 38. And he said unto them: How many loaves have ye? Go and see. And when they had found out, they said: Five and two fish. 39. And he commanded them that they should all lie down by tables full upon the green grass. 40. And they sat down by strata, an hundred and an hundred, fifty and fifty. 41. And he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks, and brake the loaves, and gave them to the disciples to set before them; and the two fishes he divided among them all. 42. And they did all eat, and were filled. 43. And they took up the fragments, twelve baskets full, and of the fishes. 44. And they that did eat were five thousand men. 45. And straightway he drove his disciples to enter into the ship, and to go before him to Bethsaida, until he should send the people away. 46. And when he had put them away, he went up into a mountain to pray. 47. And at even the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone upon the land. 48. And he saw that they were troubled in rowing, because the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came unto them, and walked upon the sea. 49. And he would pass over before them. And when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost, and cried out. 50. For they all saw him, and were afraid. But straightway he spake unto them, and said unto them, Be of good cheer; it is I, fear not. 51. And he stood by them in the ship, and the wind ceased. And they were astonished, and wondered exceedingly. 52. For they had no understanding of the loaves, and their hearts were hardened. 53. And when they were passed over, they came into the land of Galilee, and departed. 54. And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him. 55. And they all ran into the countries round about, and began to carry about the sick in beds, where they heard that he was. 56. And when he entered into the markets, or cities, or villages, they laid the sick in the market, and besought him that they would touch the hem of his garment only. And all who touched him were healed. (Mark) Chapter 7 Of the Pharisee's hypocrisy, the heathen woman's little daughter, a deaf and dumb man. 1. And there came unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes which were come from Jerusalem. 2. And when they saw some of his disciples eating bread with unclean hands, that is, with unwashen hands, they promised. 3. For the Pharisees and all the Jews eat not, but wash their hands sometimes: so they keep the statutes of the ancients. 4. And when they come from the market, they eat not, but wash themselves. And the thing is much that they have accepted to keep, to wash of drinking vessels, and pitchers, and vessels of brass, and tables. 5. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him: Why do not thy disciples walk in the statutes of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? 6. And he answered and said unto them: Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7. But it is in vain that they minister unto me, because they teach such doctrine as is not the commandment of men. 8. Ye forsake the commandment of God, and keep the ordinances of men, to wash of pitchers and vessels of drink: and ye do much of the same. 9. And he said unto them: Well have ye kept the commandment of God, that ye may keep your statutes. 10. For Moses said, Thou shalt honour thy father and thy mother: and: He that curseth father or mother shall surely be put to death: 11. And ye teach, If a man say unto his father, or to his mother, Korban, that is, If I offer it, it is much more profitable for thee; he doeth well. 12. And henceforth ye shall not let him do anything to his father or to his mother. 13. And lift up the word of God by your statutes which ye have set up: and ye do much of the same. 14. And he called all the people unto him, and said unto them: Listen to me, all of you, and hear. 15. There is nothing beside man, if it enter into him, to make him vile: but that which proceedeth out of him, the same is it that maketh man vile. 16. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. 17. And when he was come into the house from among the people, his disciples asked him this parable 18. And he said unto them, Are ye also so foolish? Do ye not yet understand that all things which are without, and which enter into a man, cannot make him mean? 19. For it entereth not into his heart, but into his belly, and goeth out by the natural process, which eateth all meat. 20. And he said, That which cometh out of a man maketh a man common. 21. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22. thievery, avarice, roguishness; cunning, fornication, roguishness, blasphemy, arrogance, unreasonableness. 23. all these evil pieces go out from within and make man mean. 24. And he arose, and went from thence into the border of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would not let any man know it, and yet could not be hid. 25. For a certain woman had heard of him, whose little daughter had an unclean spirit. And she came and fell down at his feet. 26. (and she was a Greek woman of Syro-Phoenicia); and she besought him that he would cast out devils from her daughter. 27. And JESUS said unto her, Let the children first be filled. It is not good to take the children's bread, and cast it to the dogs. 28. And she answered and said unto him, Yea, Lord; but yet the little dogs eat under the table of the children's crumbs. 29. And he said unto her, For the word's sake go thy way: the devil is departed from thy daughter. 30. And she went into her house, and found the devil gone out, and her daughter lying in her bed. 31. And when he was gone out again from the borders of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, into the midst of the border of the ten cities. 32. And they brought unto him a dove that was dumb: and they besought him to lay his hand upon him. 33. And he took him specially from among the people, and put his fingers in his ears, and spit upon his tongue, and stirred it. 34. And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and said unto him, Hephatha; that is, Arise. 35. And straightway his ears were opened, and the band of his tongue was loosed, and he spake right. 36. And he forbade them, that they should tell no man. But the more he forbade, the more they spread it abroad. 37. And they marvelled exceedingly, and said: He hath made all things well: the deaf he maketh to hear, and the speechless to speak]. (Mark) Chapter 8 Seven loaves, sign and leaven of the Pharisees, healing of the blind man, confession of Christ, JEsu suffering. 1. At that time, when there was a great multitude, and they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said unto them: 2. I am grieved for the people: for they have tarried with me three days, and have nothing to eat; 3. And if I sent them home uneaten, they would faint in the way. For some had come from afar. 4. His disciples answered him, Whence take we bread here in the wilderness, that we may satisfy them? 5. And he asked them: How many have ye loaves? And they said, Seven. 6. And he commanded the people to lie down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples to set before them: and they set them before the people. 7. And they had a few little fishes: and he gave thanks, and commanded the same to be brought forth. 8. And they did eat, and were filled, and took up the rest of the fragments, seven baskets. 9. And there were about four thousand of them that had eaten: and he sent them away]. 10. And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the region of Dalmanuthah. 11. And the Pharisees came out, and began to question with him, and tempted him, and desired of him a sign from heaven. 12. And he groaned in his spirit, and said, Why seeketh this generation for signs? Verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation. 13. And he left them, and entered into the ship again, and passed over. 14. And they had forgotten to take bread with them, and had no more with them in the ship but one loaf. 15. And he commanded them, saying, Watch, and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod. 16. And they considered from time to time, and said one to another, This is it, that we have no bread. 17. And when JEsus heard it, he saith unto them: Why do ye trouble yourselves that ye have not bread? Do ye not yet understand, and are not yet wise? Have ye yet a stiffnecked heart within you? 18. Have ye eyes, and see not; and have ye ears, and hear not, and think not, 19. When I brake five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did ye take up? They said: Twelve. 20. And when I had broken the seven among the four thousand, how many baskets of bread did ye take up? And they said, Seven. 21. And he said unto them: How then hear ye nothing? 22. And he came to Bethsaida. And they brought unto him a blind man, and besought him that he would touch him. 23. And he took the blind man by the hand, and brought him forth before the stain, and spit upon his eyes, and laid his hands upon him, and asked him if he saw anything. 24. And he looked up, and said: I see men walking as I see trees. 25. And afterward he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him see again: and he was restored, and saw all things clearly. 26. And he sent him home, saying, Go not into the village, neither tell any man within. 27. And Jesus went out, and his disciples into the markets of the city Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them: Who do men say that I am? 28. They answered: They say that thou art John the Baptist; some say that thou art Elijah; some say that thou art one of the prophets. 29. And he said unto them: But ye, who say ye that I am? Then answered Peter, and said unto him, Thou art Christ. 30. And he charged them that they should say nothing of him. 31. And began to teach them: The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and of the scribes, and be killed, and rise again after three days. 32. And he spake the word freely. And Peter took him, and began to resist him. 33. And he turned, and looked upon his disciples, and rebuked Peter, and said, Get thee behind me, thou Satan. For thou meanest not what is divine, but what is human. 34. And he called unto him the people with his disciples, and said unto them: If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 35. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. 36. What would it profit a man, if he should gain the whole world, and lose his soul? 37. Or what can man give that he may redeem his soul? 38. But whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. Ch. 9, v. 1: And he said unto them: Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God come with power. (Mark) Chapter 9 History of Christ's transfiguration and the moonstruck son. Doctrine of humility and vexation. 2. And after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up into a high mountain by themselves, and glorified himself before them. 3. And his garments became bright, and very white as the snow, so that no dyer on earth could make them so white. 4. And there appeared unto them Elijah with Moses, and they spake with JEsu. 5. And Peter answered and said unto JEsu, Rabbi, here is good: let us make thee three tabernacles, and Moses one, and Elias one. 6. But he knew not what he spake: for they were amazed. 7. And there came a cloud overshadowing them. And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son; him shall ye hear. 8. And soon after they looked round about, and saw no man, save JEsum alone with them. 9. And when they were come down from the mountain, Jesus charged them that they should tell no man what they had seen, until the Son of man should rise from the dead. 10. And they kept the word, and asked one another, What is the rising from the dead? 11. And they asked him, saying, Do not the scribes say that Elias must come before them? 12. And he answered and said unto them: Elijah shall come first, and restore all things: and the Son of man shall suffer many things, and be despised, as it is written. 13. But I say unto you, That Elias is come, and they have done unto him as they would, according as it is written of him. 14. And, coming to his disciples, he saw much people about them, and scribes consulting with them. 15. And straightway, when all the people saw him, they were amazed, and ran and greeted him. 16. And he asked the scribes: What do ye inquire of them? 17. But one of the people answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, who hath a speechless spirit; 18. And when he catcheth him, he plucketh him, and foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and withereth. I spake unto thy disciples, that they should cast him out, and they could not. 19. And he answered him, and said, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer with you? Bring him hither unto me! 20. And they brought him hither unto him. And immediately when the spirit saw him, he rent him, and fell to the earth, and rolled, and foamed. 21. And he said unto his father, How long is it that this hath befallen him? And he said, From his infancy. 22. And oftentimes he hath cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if thou canst, have mercy on us, and help us. 23. And JESUS said unto him, If thou couldst believe! All things are possible to him that believeth. 24. And immediately the father of the child cried with tears, saying: I believe, O Lord; help my unbelief. 25. And when JE saw that the people were running, he rebuked the unclean spirit, and said unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I command thee that thou depart from him, and go not into him henceforth. 26. And he cried out, and rent him very sore, and went out. And he was as though he were dead: and many said, He is dead. 27. And JEsus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose. 28. And when he was come home, his disciples asked him specially, Why could we not cast him out? 29. And he said, This kind cannot go out except by prayer and fasting. 30. And they departed thence, and walked through Galilee: and he would not that any man should know it. 31. And he taught his disciples, and said unto them: The Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men. And they shall kill him; and when he is slain, he shall rise again the third day. 32. But they heard not the word, and feared to ask him. 33. And he came to Capernaum. And when he was at home, he asked them: What did ye do together in the way? 34. But they held their peace: for they had dealt with one another in the way which was greatest. 35. And he sat down, and called unto the twelve, and said unto them, If any man will be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all. 36. And he took a little child, and set him in the midst of them, and brought him near, and said unto them: 37. Whosoever shall receive one of these little children in my name receiveth me: and he that receiveth me receiveth not me, but him that sent me. 38. And John answered and said unto him, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, which followed us not: and we forbade him therefore, that he should not follow us. 39. And Jesus said: Ye shall not forbid him. For there is no man that doeth a deed in my name, and may soon speak evil of me. 40. He that is not against us is for us. 41. But whosoever shall drink unto you a cup of water in my name, because ye are Christ's, verily I say unto you, it shall not be vouchsafed unto him. 42. And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe on me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were cast into the sea. 43. But if thy hand offend thee, cut it off. It is better for thee to enter into life as a cripple, than to have two hands, and go into hell, into everlasting fire, 44. For their worm dieth not, and their fire is not quenched. 45. If thy foot offend thee, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and be thrown into hell, into eternal fire, 46. For their worm dieth not, and their fire is not quenched. 47. If thine eye offend thee, cast it from thee. It is better for thee to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, than to have two eyes and be cast into the hellish fire, 48. For their worm dieth not, and their fire is not quenched. 49. All things must be salted with fire, and all sacrifices must be salted with salt. 50. Salt is good: but if the salt become foolish, wherewith shall they season? Have salt with you, and be at peace one with another. (Mark) Chapter 10 Of divorce, little children, the rich of the world, the suffering of Christ, the ambition of the disciples and the blind Bartimaeus. 1. And he arose, and came from thence into the coasts of the land of Judaea beyond Jordan. And the people came unto him again with multitudes: and as his custom was, he taught them again and again. 2. And the Pharisees came unto him, and asked him if a man might divorce his wife; and they tempted him therewith. 3. And he answered and said, What commanded Moses? 4. And they said: Moses allowed to write a letter of divorce and to divorce. 5. And JEsus answered and said unto them: For the hardness of your hearts he hath written you such a commandment. 6. But from the beginning of the creation God created them male and female. 7. Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave unto his wife, 8. And the two shall be one flesh. So now they are not two, but one flesh. 9. What God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 10. And again at home his disciples asked him these things. 11. And he said unto them: Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. 12. And if a woman put away her husband, and marry another, she committeth adultery. 13. And they brought little children unto him, that he might touch them. And the disciples began to touch them that bare them. 14. And when Jesus saw it, he was displeased, and said unto them: Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for such is the kingdom of God. 15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall not enter therein. 16. And he drew near unto them, and laid his hands upon them, and blessed them. 17. And when he was gone out into the way, one ran forward, and kneeled before him, and said unto him, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? 18. But JESUS said unto him, Why callest thou me good? No one is good but the one God. 19. Thou knowest the commandments, Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness. Thou shalt not deceive anyone. Honor thy father and mother. 20. And he answered and said unto him, Master, these things have I kept from my youth. 21. And JEsus looked on him, and loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest. Go thy way, sell all that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me, and take up the cross. 22. And he was displeased at the saying, and went away sorrowful: for he had many goods. 23. And JE looked round about, and said unto his disciples, How hardly shall the rich enter into the kingdom of GOD! 24. And the disciples were astonished at his saying. But Jesus answered again, and said unto them: Dear children, how hard it is for those who put their trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! 25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. 26. And they were much more astonished, saying one to another, Who then can be saved? 27. And JE looked upon them, and said, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for all things are possible with GOD. 28. Then Peter said unto him, Behold, we have left all, and followed thee. 29. Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that forsaketh house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and for the gospel's sake, 30. Who shall not receive an hundredfold now in this time houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands of persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. 31. But many shall be last which are first, and first which are last. 32. And they were in the way, and went up to Jerusalem. And JEsus went before them: and they were amazed, and followed him, and were afraid. And JEsus took the twelve again, and told them what should befall him: 33. Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him unto the Gentiles. 34. They shall mock him, and scourge him, and spit upon him, and kill him: and the third day he shall rise again. 35. And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came unto him, saying: Master, we desire thee to do unto us whatsoever we shall ask of thee. 36. And he said unto them: What would ye that I should do unto you? 37. And they said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and one on thy left, in thy glory. 38. And JEsus said unto them: Ye know not what ye ask. Can ye drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? 39. And they said unto him, Yea, we can. And Jesus said unto them: Ye shall drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with baptism, as I am baptized withal; 40. But to sit on my right hand, and on my left, it is not for me to give you, but to whom it is prepared. 41. And when the ten heard it, they were displeased with James and John. 42. But JESUS called them, and said unto them: Ye know that the worldly princes rule, and the mighty among them have power. 43. But it shall not be so among you: but he that will be great among you, let him be your servant. 44. And whosoever of you will be chief, he shall be servant of all. 45. For even the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life for a price for many. 46. And they came to Jericho. And as he went out of Jericho, he, and his disciples, and a great multitude, there sat a blind man, Bartimaeus the son of Timaeus, by the way begging. 47. And when he heard that it was JEsu of Nazareth, he began to cry out, saying, JEsu, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. 48. And many afflicted him, that he should hold his peace. But he cried much more, Son of David, have mercy on me. 49. And JEsus stood still, and called him. And they called the blind man, and said unto him, Be of good cheer, arise. He calleth thee. 50. And he cast off his garment, and arose, and came to JEsu. 51. And JEsus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? And the blind man said unto him, Rabuni, that I may see. 52. And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way: thy faith hath helped thee. And straightway he saw, and followed him in the way. (Mark) Chapter 11 Christ's entry, cursing of the fig tree, cleansing of the temple. 1. And when they were come nigh to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, to the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples. 2. And said unto them: Go into the place which is before you, and straightway; when ye are come in, ye shall find a colt tied, on which no man hath ever sat. Untie it, and bring it hither. 3. And if any man shall say unto you, Why do ye this? Why do ye this? say, The LORD hath need; and he will send it quickly. 4. And they went and found the colt bound at the door, out of the way, and loosed it. 5. And some of them that stood by said unto them: What do ye to redeem the filling? 6. And they said unto them, as JEsus commanded them: and they suffered it to be done. 7. And they brought the stuffing unto JEsu, and laid their garments thereon, and he sat upon it. 8. And many spread their garments in the way. And some cut down branches from the trees, and scattered them in the way. 9. And they that went before, and they that followed after, cried out, saying: Hosanna! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the LORD. 10. Blessed be the kingdom of David our father, which cometh in the name of the LORD. Hosanna in the highest! 11. And the LORD entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple. And he looked upon all things; and in the evening he went out to Bethany with the twelve. 12. And the next day, as they departed from Bethany, he hungered. 13. And he saw a fig tree afar off, having leaves. And he went near to see if he could find anything thereon. And when he came near, he found nothing but leaves: for it was not yet time for figs to be. 14. And JESUS answered and said unto him, Now eat no fruit of thee for ever. And his disciples heard it. 15. And they came to Jerusalem. And JEsus entered into the temple, and began, and cast out the sellers and buyers of the temple; and the tables of the changers, and the seats of the sellers of doves, he overthrew. 16. And would not suffer any man to carry any thing through the temple. 17. And he taught, and said unto them, Is it not written, I pray thee? My house shall be called a house of prayer unto all people? But ye have made it a den of thieves. 18. And he came before the scribes and chief priests, and they sought how they might destroy him. And they feared him: for all the people marvelled at his doctrine. 19. And in the evening he went out of the city. 20. And in the morning they passed by, and saw the fig tree withered to the root. 21. And Peter remembered it, and said unto him, Rabbi, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered. 22. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Have faith in GOD! 23. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Lift up thyself, and cast thee into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he saith shall be done, so shall it be done unto him. 24. Therefore I say unto you: Whatsoever ye shall ask in your prayers, believe that ye shall receive it, and it shall be done unto you. 25. And when ye stand praying, if ye have anything against any man, forgive him; that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 26. But if ye forgive not, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses. 27. And they came again to Jerusalem. And when he was entered into the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came unto him. 28. And they said unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee authority to do them? 29. But JEsus answered and said unto them: I also will ask you one word; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things: 30. John's baptism, was it from heaven or from men? Answer me! 31. And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we say that she was from heaven, he will say, Why then did ye not believe him? 32. But if we say that it was of men, we are afraid of the people. For they all thought that John was a true prophet. 33. And they answered and said unto JEsu, We know it not. And JEsu answered and said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. (Mark) Chapter 12 Of the vineyard, the interest, the resurrection, the most noble commandment, the Messiah, the scribes and the poor widow. 1. And he began to speak unto them by parables, saying, A man planted a vineyard, and put a fence round about it, and digged a winepress, and built a tower, and put it out of the vineyards, and went over the country. 2. And when the time was come, he sent a servant unto the husbandmen, to take of the husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard. 3. And they took him, and thrust him, and sent him away empty. 4. And again he sent unto them another servant, and they smote him on the head with stones, and put him to shame. 5. And once he sent another, and they slew him; and many others: some they overthrew, and some they slew. 6. And he had an only son, which was dear unto him: him also he sent unto them at the last, saying, They shall be afraid of my son. 7. But the same husbandmen said one to another, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours. 8. And they took him, and slew him, and cast him out before the vineyard. 9. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and kill the vine-growers and give the vineyard to others. 10. Neither have ye read this scripture: The stone which the builders rejected became the corner stone; 11. This is done of the LORD, and it is marvellous in our sight? 12. And they sought how they might lay hold on him, and yet were afraid of the people: for they heard that he had spoken this parable unto them. And they left him, and went away. 13. And they sent unto him certain of the Pharisees, and of Herod's servants, to take him in words. 14. And they came and said unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and askest after no man: for thou regardest not the reputation of men, but teachest the way of God aright. Is it right to give interest to Caesar, or not? Shall we give it, or shall we not give it? 15. And he perceived their hypocrisy, and said unto them: Why tempt ye me? Bring me a penny, that I may see it. 16. And they brought him. And he said, Whose is the image and superscription? And they said unto him, The emperor's. 17. Then answered JEsus, and said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto GOD the things that are GOD's. And they were astonished. 18. Then came the Sadducees unto him, which say that there is no resurrection: and they asked him, saying: 19. Master, Moses wrote unto us: If any man's brother die, and leave a wife, and have no children, his brother shall take his brother's wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. 20. Now there were seven brethren. The first took a wife; he died, and left no seed. 21. And the other took them, and died, and left no seed. The third of the same kind. 22. And they took all seven, and left no seed. And at the last the woman died after them all. 23. Now in the resurrection, when they rise again, whose wife shall she be among them? For seven have they had for wives. 24. Then answered JEsus, and said unto them: Is it not so? Ye err therefore, because ye know not the scriptures, nor the power of God. 25. When they shall rise from the dead, they shall not be free, neither shall they be given liberty; but they shall be as the angels which are in heaven. 26. But of the dead, that they should rise again, have ye not read in the book of Moses by the bush, How God said unto him, saying: I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? 27. But God is not God of the dead, but God of the living. Therefore ye greatly err. 28. And there came unto him one of the scribes, which had heard them as they consulted one with another, and saw that he had answered them well, and asked him, Which is the chiefest commandment above all? 29. And JESUS said unto him, The chiefest commandment above all commandments is this, Hear, O Israel; the LORD our God is one God. 30. And, Thou shalt love God thy Lord with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the most noble commandment. 31. And the other is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: there is no other commandment greater than these. 32. And the scribe said unto him, Master, thou hast indeed spoken rightly: for there is one God, and there is none else beside him. 33. And to love him with all the heart, and with all the mind, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than burnt offering and sacrifice. 34. And when JE saw that he answered reasonably, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of GOD. And no one was allowed to ask him any further questions. 35. And JEsus answered and said, as he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the Son of David? 36. And he, David, saith by the Holy Ghost: The LORD hath said unto my LORD, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 37. And David called him his lord: whence then is he his son? And much people heard him gladly. 38. And he taught them, and said unto them, Beware of the scribes, which walk in long robes, and love to be saluted in the marketplace. 39. and like to sit on top in the schools and over table in the Lord's Supper; 40. They devour widows' houses, and make long prayers: they shall receive the more damnation. 41. And JESUS sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people put money into the treasury. And many rich men put in much. 42. And there came a poor widow, and put in two mites, which make a farthing. 43. And he called his disciples unto him, and said unto them: Verily I say unto you, This poor widow hath put more into the treasury than all they that have put in. 44. For they have all put away of the rest of their substance: but this woman of her poverty hath put away all that she had, all her food. (Mark) Chapter 13 Of the destruction of the city of Jerusalem and the end of the world. 1. And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples said unto him, Master, behold, what manner of stones and what building is this! 2. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Seest thou all this great building? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be broken. 3. And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew in particular asked him: 4. Tell us, when shall all these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be accomplished? 5. Jesus answered them, and began to say, Take heed that no man deceive you. 6. For many shall come under my name, saying, I am Christ, and shall deceive many. 7. But when ye shall hear of wars, and of the cry of wars, fear not: for it must so come to pass. But the end is not yet. 8. And the people shall rise against the people, and the kingdom against the kingdom. And there shall be earthquakes from time to time; and there shall be a grievous time and a terror. This is the beginning of trouble. 9. But ye, beware! For they shall deliver you up into the courts, and into the synagogues: and ye shall be beaten, and brought before princes and kings, for my sake, for a testimony against them. 10. And the gospel must first be preached among all nations. 11. When therefore they shall lead you, and deliver you up, be not anxious what ye shall speak, neither consider beforehand: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. 12. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the son: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and shall help to kill them. 13. And shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But he that endureth to the end shall be saved. 14. And when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, that it shall stand when it ought not (let him that readeth hear it), then let him that is in Judea flee to the mountains; 15. And whosoever is upon the housetop, let him not go down into the house, neither let him come in to take any thing out of his house; 16. And he that is in the field, let him not turn back to take up his garments. 17. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! 18. But pray that your flight be not in the winter. 19. For in those days shall be such tribulations as never were before from the beginning of the creatures which God created, neither shall be. 20. And if the LORD had not shortened those days, no man would be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened those days. 21. If any man therefore shall say unto you in that day, Behold, here is Christ; behold, he is here; believe it not. 22. For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, working signs and wonders, to deceive even the elect, if it were possible. 23. But ye, beware! Behold, I have told you all before. 24. But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun and the moon shall lose their light. 25. And the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be moved. 26. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with power and great glory. 27. And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth even to the end of the heavens. 28. Learn a parable of the fig tree. When its branches become sapient and produce leaves, you know that summer is near. 29. So also, when ye see these things come to pass, know that it is at the door. 30. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. 31. Heaven and earth shall pass away; but my words shall not pass away. 32. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father only. 33. Watch ye, watch ye, and pray: for ye know not when the time is. 34. Like unto a man that went over the land, and left his house, and gave power unto his servants, every man his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. 35. Watch therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, whether he cometh at even, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or in the morning, 36. Lest he come quickly, and find you asleep. 37. But what I say unto you, that say I unto all: Watch! (Mark) Chapter 14 Christ's anointing, institution of the holy supper, fight in the garden, imprisonment, confession before Caiaphas, Peter's fall into sin. 1. And after two days was Easter, and the days of sweet bread. And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might take him with guile, and kill him. 2. And they said, Yea, not at the feast, lest there be a tumult among the people. 3. And when he was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, sitting at meat, there came a woman having a jar of unadulterated and precious water of nard: and she brake the jar, and poured it upon his head. 4. And there were some that were displeased, and said: What is this filth? 5. They might have sold the water for more than three hundred pence, and have given it to the poor. And murmured over them. 6. And Jesus said, Let them alone. Why do ye trouble her? She hath done a good work for me. 7. Ye have the poor always with you; and when ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always. 8. She hath done that which she was able; she hath come forward to anoint my body for my burial. 9. Verily I say unto you, That wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in all the world, the things which she hath now done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her. 10. And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests to betray him. 11. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him the money. And he sought how he might easily betray him. 12. And on the first day of sweet bread, when they offered the passover, his disciples said unto him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare to eat the passover? 13. And he sent two of his disciples, and said unto them: Go into the city, and a man shall meet you bearing a pitcher of water; follow him. 14. And when he was come in, say unto the goodman of the house, The master saith unto thee, Where is the inn where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? 15. And he shall show you a great hall, paved and ready; there make ready for us. 16. And the disciples went out, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them, and prepared the passover. 17. And in the evening he came with the twelve. 18. And as they sat at meat, and did eat, JEsus said, Verily I say unto you, That one of you which eateth with me shall betray me. 19. And they were grieved, and said unto him one by one: Is it I? and the other: Is it I? 20. And he answered and said unto them: One of the twelve, which dippeth with me in the dish. 21. The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! It were better for that man that he had never been born. 22. And as they were eating, JESUS took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave it unto them, saying, Take, eat; this is my body. 23. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it unto them: and they drank all of them of it. 24. And he said unto them: This is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many. 25. Verily I say unto you, That I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God. 26. And when they had sung the hymn, they went out unto the mount of Olives. 27. And JEsus said unto them: Ye shall all be offended in me this night. For it is written: I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered. 28. But after I rise again, I will go before you into Galilee. 29. And Peter said unto him, Though they were all angry, yet would not I be angry. 30. And JESUS said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, This night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. 31. And he said still further, Yea, though I should die with thee, I would not deny thee. They all said the same thing. 32. And they came to the court which is called Gethsemane. And he saith unto his disciples, Sit ye here until I go and pray. 33. And took unto him Peter, and James, and John, and began to tremble and to shake. 34. And said unto them: My soul is troubled even unto death: stay ye here, and watch. 35. And he went down a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass, 36. And said, Abba, my Father, all things are possible unto thee; deliver me up this cup: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt. 37. And when he was come, he found them asleep, and said unto Peter, Simon, art thou asleep? Canst thou not watch one hour? 38. Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. 39. And he went again, and prayed, and spake the same words. 40. And he returned, and found them sleeping again: for their eyes were full of sleep, and they knew not what they answered him. 41. And he came the third time, and said unto them: Ah, will ye now sleep and rest? It is enough; the hour is come. Behold, the Son of man is delivered into the hands of sinners. 42. Arise, let us go; behold, he that betrayeth me is near! 43. And straightway, while he yet spake, came Judas, one of the twelve, and a great multitude with him, with swords and staves, from the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders. 44. And the traitor had given them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that is he; take him, and lead him surely. 45. And when he was come, he came to him straightway, and said unto him, Rabbi, Rabbi; and kissed him. 46. And they laid their hands on him, and took him. 47. And one of them that stood by drew his sword, and smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 48. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Ye are come out as unto a murderer with swords and with staves to take me. 49. I have been daily with you in the temple, teaching, and ye have not taken hold of me: but that the scripture might be fulfilled. 50. And the disciples all forsook him, and fled. 51. And there was a young man following him, clothed in linen on the bare skin: and the young men laid hold on him. 52. And he let go the canvas, and fled from them naked. 53. And they brought JEsum unto the high priest, where all the chief priests, and the elders, and the scribes, were gathered together. 54. And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and there he sat with the servants, warming himself by the light. 55. But the chief priests and all the council sought to testify against JEsum, that they might put him to death, and found nothing. 56. Many bare false witness against him, but their testimony did not agree. 57. And some arose, and bare false witness against him, and said: 58. We have heard that he said, I will break down the temple that is made with hands, and in three days will I build another that is not made with hands. 59. But their testimony did not yet agree. 60. And the high priest stood up among them, and asked JEsum, saying, Answerest thou nothing to the things which these witness against thee? 61. And he held his peace, and answered nothing. Then the high priest asked him again, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the most blessed? 62. And JEsus said: It is I. And ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming with the clouds of heaven. 63. And the high priest rent his skirt, and said, What need we any more witnesses? 64. Ye have heard them, and what think ye? And they all condemned him, that he was guilty of death. 65. Then began some to spit upon him, and to cover his face, and to smite him with their fists, and to say unto him, Prophesy unto us. And the servants smote him in the face. 66. And Peter was in the palace, and one of the maidservants of the high priest came. 67. And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with JEsu of Nazareth. 68. But he denied it, saying: I know him not, neither know I what thou sayest. And he went out into the court: and the cock crowed. 69. And the maid saw him, and began again to say unto them that sat by: This is the one. 70. and he denied it again. And after a little while they that stood by said again unto Peter: Verily thou art one; for thou art a Galilaean, and thy language is like unto this. 71. And he began to curse himself, and to swear: I know not the man of whom ye say. 72. And the cock crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word which Jesus spake unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he began to weep. (Mark) Chapter 15 Christ's Passion before Pilate, Coronation, Crucifixion, Death and Burial 1. And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a council with the elders and scribes, and with all the council, and bound Jesus, and led him away, and delivered him to Pilate. 2. And Pilate asked him, Art thou a king of the Jews? And he answered and said unto him, Thou sayest it. 3. And the chief priests accused him severely. 4. And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? Behold, how hard they accuse thee! 5. But Jesus answered no more; so that Pilate also marvelled. 6. And he used to release unto them at the feast of the passover a prisoner, whom they desired. 7. And there was one called Barabbas, which was taken with the rebels, which had committed murder in the riot. 8. And the people went up, and besought him that he would do as he did. 9. And Pilate answered them: Will ye that I release unto you the king of the Jews? 10. For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him up out of envy. 11. But the chief priests provoked the people, that he would rather deliver Barabbas unto them. 12. And Pilate answered again, and said unto them: What will ye then that I should do to him whom ye accuse to be a king of the Jews? 13. And they cried again, Crucify him. 14. And Pilate said unto them: What evil hath he done? But they cried out much more, Crucify him. 15. But Pilate, thinking to do enough for the people, released Barabbas to them and delivered Jesus to be scourged and crucified. 16. And the soldiers brought him into the judgment house, and called the whole company together; 17. And they clothed him in purple, and wove for him a crown of thorns, and put it upon him; 18. And they began to salute him, Hail, king of the Jews. 19. And they smote him on the head with a reed, and spit upon him, and fell on their knees, and worshipped him. 20. And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of his purple, and put on him his own clothes, and led him out to crucify him. 21. And they compelled one that passed by, named Simon of Cyrene, which came from the field, (who was a father to Alexander and Rufus,) to bear him the cross. 22. And they brought him to the place called Golgotha, which is interpreted, The place of the skull. 23. And they gave him myrrh in wine to drink: and he took it not. 24. And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, and cast lots to see which should come first. 25. And it was about the third hour that they crucified him. 26. And it was written above concerning him, what they blamed him for, saying, A king of the Jews. 27. And they crucified with him two murderers, one on his right hand, and one on his left. 28. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, He is numbered with the transgressors. 29. And they that passed by blasphemed him, and shook their heads, saying, Fie on thee, how thou breakest down the temple, and buildest it in three days. 30. Help thyself therefore, and come down from the cross. 31. And likewise the chief priests mocked him among themselves, and the scribes, saying: He hath helped others, and cannot help himself. 32. If he be Christ, and King in Israel, let him now come down from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they also that were crucified with him reviled him. 33. And after the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. 34. And about the ninth hour JEsus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama asabthani? that is interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? 35. And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. 36. And one ran, and filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon a reed, and watered it, and said, Hold, let me see if Elijah will come and take it down. 37. But JEsus cried aloud, and passed away. 38. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. 39. And the centurion that stood by, and saw him die with such a cry, said he, Verily this man was the Son of God. 40. And there were also women beholding these things afar off; among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of little James, and of Joses, and Salome, 41. Who also followed him when he was in Galilee, and ministered, and many others that went up with him to Jerusalem. 42. And in the evening, because it was the preparation day, which is the day before the sabbath, 43. Joseph of Arimathea, an honourable counsellor, who also waited for the kingdom of God, came and dared to go in to Pilate, and asked for the body of JEsu. 44. And Pilate marvelled that he was already dead, and called the centurion, and asked him if he were long dead. 45. And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave Joseph the body. 46. And he bought a linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre that was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone at the door of the sepulchre. 47. But Mary Magdalene and Mary Joses watched where he was laid. (Mark) Chapter 16 Of Christ's resurrection and ascension. 1. And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary of James, and Salome, bought spices, that they might come and anoint him. 2. And they came unto the sepulchre on a sabbath day very early, when the sun was risen. 3. And they said one to another, Who shall roll us the stone from the door of the sepulchre? 4. And they looked there, and perceived that the stone was rolled away; for it was very great. 5. And they entered into the sepulchre, and saw a young man sitting on the right hand, clothed in a long white garment. And they were amazed. 6. And he said unto them: Be not dismayed. Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen, and is not here. Behold the place where they laid him. 7. But go and tell his disciples and Peter, that he will go before you into Galilee; and there ye shall see him, as he hath said unto you. 8. And they came out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre: for trembling and terror had come upon them. And said nothing to any man: for they were afraid. 9. And Jesus, being risen early in the morning on the first day of the sabbath, appeared the first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven devils. 10. And she went and told them that had been with him, which mourned and wept. 11. And they, when they heard that he was alive, and that he appeared unto her, believed them not. 12. And after that, as two of them walked, he manifested himself in another form, as they went into the field. 13. And they also went and told it unto the rest: neither believed they them. 14. Last of all, as the eleven sat at meat, he manifested himself, and rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him risen. 15. And said unto them: Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17. And the signs which shall follow them that believe are these: In my name shall they cast out devils, and shall speak with new tongues, 18. They shall drive out serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them: they shall lay their hands on the sick, and they shall be better. 19. And the LORD, after he had spoken unto them, was taken up into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of GOD. 20. And they went out, and preached in every place. And the LORD wrought with them, confirming the word with signs following]. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] Gospel of Luke ^ Chapter 1 John's birth and childhood. 1. For many have refrained from speaking of the stories that have passed among us, 2. as have given us this, which have seen it themselves from the beginning, and have been ministers of the word: 3. I have also thought it good, after I have explored it all from the beginning, that I write it to you, my good Theophilus, with diligence properly, 4. that thou mayest know certain ground of doctrine. The reason for the teaching in which you are instructed. 5. In the days of Herod king of Judea there was a priest of the order of Abia, whose name was Zacharias, and his wife of the daughters of Aaron, whose name was Elizabeth. 6. And they were both pious before God, and walked blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the LORD. 7. And they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren: and they were both of them of a good age. 8. And it came to pass, when he was in the priest's office before God in the time of his ordinance 9. According to the custom of the priesthood, and it was upon him to burn incense, he entered into the temple of the LORD. 10. And all the multitude of the people were without, praying under the hour of incense. 11. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and stood on his right hand at the altar of incense. 12. And when Zacharias saw him, he was afraid, and fear came upon him. 13. And the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard, and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, whose name thou shalt call John. 14. And thou shalt have joy and gladness, and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15. For he shall be great in the sight of the LORD. He shall not drink wine or strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost while yet in his mother's womb. 16. And he shall turn many of the children of Israel unto GOD their LORD. 17. And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers unto the children, and the unbelievers unto the prudence of the righteous, to prepare a people ready unto the LORD. 18. And Zacharias said unto the angel, How shall I know this? For I am old, and my wife is aged. 19. And the angel answered and said unto him, I am Gabriel, which stand before God, and am sent to speak unto thee, to shew thee these things. 20. And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and shalt not be able to speak until the day that this shall come to pass, because thou hast not believed my words, which shall be fulfilled in their time. 21. And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. 22. And when he was come out, he could not speak unto them. And they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he beckoned unto them, and was silent. 23. And it came to pass, when the time of his ministry was expired, that he went home to his house. 24. And after those days Elisabeth his wife conceived, and hid herself five months, and said: 25. Thus hath the LORD done unto me in the days that he looked upon me, to take away my reproach from among men. 26. And in the sixth moon the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee, which is called Nazareth, 27. To a virgin, which was trusted unto a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David: and the name of the virgin was Ma. 28. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, blessed art thou! The LORD is with thee, thou that givest gift among women. 29. And when she saw him, she was afraid at his speech, and thought: What greeting is this? 30. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: thou hast found grace with God. 31. Behold, thou shalt conceive in the womb, and bear a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. 32. He shall be called great and a son of the Most High, and God the Lord will give him the throne of his father David. 33. And he shall be king over the house of Jacob for ever: and there shall be no end of his kingdom. 34. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know of no man? 35. And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. 36. And, behold, Elizabeth thy friend is also with child with a son in her old age, and is now in the sixth moon, who is in a cry that she is barren. 37. For with God no thing is impossible. 38. And Mary said, Behold, I am the handmaid of the LORD; let it be done unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her] 39. And Mary arose in those days, and went up into the mountains in haste unto the city of Judah. 40. And came into the house of Zacharias, and greeted Elisabeth. 41. And it came to pass, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of her mother, that the child leaped in her womb. And Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit 42. And cried with a loud voice, saying, Thou art blessed among women, and the fruit of thy womb is blessed. 43. And whence cometh it unto me, that the mother of my Lord cometh unto me? 44. Behold, when I heard the voice of thy salutation, the child leaped with joy in my womb. 45. And blessed art thou that hast believed. For that which is spoken unto thee of the LORD shall be accomplished. 46. And Mary said, My soul exalteth the LORD, 47. And my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour. 48. For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaid. Behold, from henceforth all the children's children shall call me blessed. 49. For he hath done great things for me, who is mighty, and whose name is holy. 50. And his mercy endureth for ever unto them that fear him. 51. He maketh violence with his arm, and scattereth them that are foolish in their heart. 52. He pusheth down the mighty from their seats, and lifteth up the lowly. 53. He filleth the hungry with good things, and maketh the rich empty. 54. He remembereth mercy, and helpeth up his servant Israel. 55. As he spake unto our fathers, unto Abraham, and to his seed for ever. 56. And Mary abode with her three months; after that she returned again]. 57. And. Elizabeth's time came for her to give birth, and she gave birth to a son. 58. And her neighbours and her friends heard that the LORD had shewed her great mercy, and rejoiced with her. 59. And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the young child, and called his name Zacharias after his father. 60. But his mother answered and said, Not at all, but he shall be called John. 61. And they said unto her: Is there no man in thy friendship whose name is so? 62. And they beckoned unto his father, as he would have him called. 63. And he called for a little tablet, and wrote, and said, His name is John. And they were all amazed. 64. And immediately his mouth and his tongue were opened, and he spake, and praised God. 65. And there came a fear upon all the neighbours, and this story was spread abroad throughout all the mountains of Judah. 66. And all that heard it took it to heart, and said: What thinkest thou that this child shall become? For the hand of the Lord was with him. 67. And Zacharias his father was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying: 68. Blessed be the LORD God of Israel: for he hath visited and redeemed his people; 69. And hath raised up for us a horn of salvation in the house of his servant David. 70. Ancient of days hath he spoken by the mouth of his holy prophets: 71. That he might deliver us from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us, 72. And shewed mercy unto our fathers, and remembered his holy covenant. 73. And to the oath which he sware unto Abraham our father to give us, 74. That we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear all our days. 75. In holiness and righteousness, which is pleasing in his sight. 76. and thou, O child, shalt be called a prophet of the Most High: thou shalt go before the LORD, to prepare his way. 77. And give knowledge of salvation unto his people, which is in the remission of their sins, 78. through the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising from on high has visited us, 79. That he may appear to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and direct our feet into the way of peace. 80. And the young child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the wilderness, until he should stand forth before the people of Israel]. (Luke) Chapter 2 Christ's birth, circumcision and presentation, parley in the temple. 1. Now it came to pass in those days, that there went out a commandment from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be esteemed. 2. And this estimation was the first of all, and was made in the time that Cyrenius was governor in Syria. 3. And every man went to be appraised, every man to his own city. 4. Then Joseph also arose out of Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, into the land of Judah, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; because he was of the house and family of David. 5. That he might be esteemed with Mary his familiar wife, which was with child. 6. And when they were there, the time came that she should be delivered. 7. And she bare her first son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger: for they had no other room in the inn. 8. And there were shepherds in the same region in the field by the hurdles, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9. And, behold, the angel of the LORD came unto them, and the glory of the LORD shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. 10: And the angel said unto them: Fear not! Behold, I proclaim great joy to you, which shall be to all the people; 11. For unto you is born this day a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. 12. And this have for a sign: You will find the child wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. 13. And straightway there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD, and saying: 14. Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth, and goodwill toward men. 15. And when the angels were departed from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us go now unto Bethlehem, and see the things which are come to pass, which the LORD hath made known unto us. 16. And they came in haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the young child lying in the manger. 17. And when they had seen it, they spread abroad the word which was spoken unto them of this child. 18. And all they that heard it marvelled at the words which the shepherds had spoken unto them. 19. But Mary kept all these words, and moved them in her heart. 20. And the shepherds returned again, praising and glorifying GOD for all that they had heard and seen, as it was said unto them]. 21. And when eight days were expired for circumcising the child, his name was called Jesus, which was named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb]. 22. And when the days of their purification came according to the law. And when the days of Moses' purification were come, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him unto the LORD. 23. For as it is written in the law of the LORD, Every male that first breaketh the mother shall be called holy unto the LORD, 24. And that they should offer the sacrifice, according as it is written in the law of the LORD, a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. 25. And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was devout, and feared God, and waited for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him. 26. And an answer was given him of the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, because he had seen the Christ of the Lord before. 27. And came into the temple by inspiration of the Spirit. And when the parents had brought the child Jesus into the temple, to do for him according to the law, 28. And he took him upon his anne, and praised GOD, and said: 29. Now therefore, O LORD, let thy servant depart in peace, as thou hast said; 30. For mine eyes have seen thy Saviour, 31. Which thou hast prepared before all nations, 32. A light to enlighten the heathen, and for the praise of thy people Israel. 33. And his father and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. 34. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this man is set for a fall and a rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted. 35. And a sword shall pierce through thy soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be made manifest. 36. And there was a prophetess, Hannah, the daughter of Phanuel, of the family of Asher, which was well bedded, and had lived seven years with her husband after her virginity. 37. And there was a widow of fourscore and four years old, which never came out of the temple, but served God with fasting and prayer day and night: 38. The same came also at that hour, and glorified the LORD, and spake of him unto all them that waited for salvation at Jerusalem. 39. And when they had finished all things according to the law of the LORD, they returned into Galilee unto their city Nazareth. 40. But the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, full of wisdom; and the grace of God was with him. 41. And his parents went every year to Jerusalem for the feast of the passover. 42. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. 43. And when the days were fulfilled, and they returned home, the child JEsus abode at Jerusalem: and his parents knew it not. 44. And thinking that he was among the companions, they came a day's journey, and sought him among their friends and acquaintances. 45. And when they found him not, they went again to Jerusalem, seeking him. 46. And it came to pass, that, after three days, they found him sitting in the temple in the midst of the teachers, listening unto them, and asking them. 47. And all that heard him marvelled at his understanding and his answer. 48. And when they saw him, they were amazed. And his mother said unto him: My son, why hast thou done this unto us? Behold, your father and I have sought you with pain. 49. And he said unto them: What is it that ye have sought me? Know ye not that I must be in that which is my Father's? 50. And they understood not the word which he spake unto them. 51. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them. And his mother kept all these words in her heart. 52. And JEsus increased in wisdom, age, and grace with GOD and men]. (Luke) Chapter 3 John's sermon on repentance and testimony of Christ. Baptism and the Liaison of the Nativity. 1. In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius the emperor, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod tetrarch of Galilee, and Philip his brother tetrarch of Ituraea, and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2. When Annas and Caiaphas were high priests, the commandment of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3. And he came into all the region round about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. 4. As it is written in the book of the sayings of Isaiah the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, and make his paths straight. 5. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be humbled; and that which is crooked shall be made right, and that which is rough shall be made crooked. 6. And all flesh shall see the Saviour of God. 7. And he said unto the people that went out to be baptized of him, Ye sons of vipers, who hath shewed you that ye shall escape the wrath to come? 8. Take heed, do righteous fruits of repentance, and presume not to say, We have Abraham for a father. For I say unto you, God is able to raise up children unto Abraham out of these stones. 9. The axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 10. And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do? 11. And he answered and said unto them: He that hath two coats, let him give to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. 12. And the publicans came also to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? 13. And he said unto them: Ask no more than is set. 14. Then asked they him also the men of war, saying: What then shall we do? And he said unto them: Do neither violence nor injustice to any man, and be content with your garments. 15. And when the people were in a delusion, and all thought in their hearts of John, whether he might be Christ 16. John answered and said unto all: I baptize you with water: but there cometh after me a stronger, to whom I am not sufficient to loose the thongs of his shoes: who shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire. 17. In his hand is the shovel of the word: and he shall sweep his threshingfloor, and gather the wheat into his barn, and the chaff shall he burn with everlasting fire. 18. And much, much more did he exhort and proclaim unto the people. 19. And Herod the tetrarch, when he was punished of him because of Herodias his brother's wife, and because of all the evil that Herod had done 20. Over all this he put John captive. 21. And it came to pass, when all the people were baptized, and Jesus also was baptized, and prayed, that heaven was opened. 22. And the Holy Ghost descended upon him in the flesh as a dove: and there came a voice out of heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 23. And JEsus entered into the thirtieth year, and was accounted the son of Joseph, which was the son of Eli, 24. Which was the son of Mattath, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Jannah, which was the son of Joseph, 25. Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Nahum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nange, 26. Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Shemei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Judah, 27. Who was the son of Johanna, who was the son of Resiah, who was the son of Zorobabel, who was the son of Salathiel, who was the son of Neri, 28. Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Coma, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Hers, 29. Which was the son of Joses, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorem, which was the son of Mattah, which was the son of Levi, 30. Who was the son of Simeon, who was the son of Judah, who was the son of Joseph, who was the son of Jonam, who was the son of Eliakim, 31. Which was the son of Meleah, which was the son of Menam, which was the son of Mattathan, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David, 32. Who was the son of Jesse, who was the son of Obed, who was the son of Boaz, who was the son of Salmon, who was the son of Nahasson, 33. Which was the son of Amminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Judah, 34. He was the son of Jacob, he was the son of Isaac, he was the son of Abraham. The son of Abraham, the son of Tara, the son of Nahor, 35. Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragahu, which was the son of Phaleg, which was the son of Eber, which was the son of Salah, 36. (Who was a son of Cainan,) who was a son of Arphachad, who was a son of Shem, who was a son of Noah, who was a son of Lamech, 37. Which was the son of Mathushalah, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan, 38. Who was a son of Enos, who was a son of Seth, who was a son of Adam, who was God. (Luke) Chapter 4 Jesus is tempted, preaches and does miracles. 1. And Jesus, full of the Holy Ghost, came again from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. 2. And was tempted of the devil forty days. And he ate nothing in those days. And when they were ended, he hungered after them. 3. And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, speak unto the stone, that it may become bread. 4. And JEsus answered and said unto him, It is written: Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. 5. And the devil led him up into a high mountain, and shewed him all the kingdoms of the whole world in a moment. 6. And said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory thereof: for it is delivered unto me, and I will give it to whom I will. 7. If therefore thou wilt worship me, all shall be thine. 8. Jesus answered him, and said, Take thee away from me, Satan. It is written: Thou shalt worship God thy Lord, and serve him only. 9. And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him upon the pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the son of God, let thee go down from hence; 10. For it is written: He shall command his angels concerning thee, that they may keep thee. 11. And carry on thine hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. 12. And JEsus answered and said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt thy Lord GOD. 13. And when the devil had ended all temptation, he departed from him for a season. 14. And JEsus came again in the power of the Spirit into Galilee; and the rumor of him went out through all the surrounding places. 15. And he taught in their synagogues, and was praised of all. 16. And he came to Nazareth, being brought up, and went into the synagogue according to his custom on the sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17. And the book of Isaiah the prophet was handed unto him. And when he had turned the book about, he found the place where it was written: 18. The Spirit of the Lord is with me, because he hath anointed me, and sent me to preach the gospel to the poor, and to heal the brokenhearted, and to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, and liberty to the brokenhearted, 19. And to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. 20. And when he had made ready the book, he gave it to the servant, and sat down. And all the eyes that were in the synagogue looked upon him. 21. And he began to say unto them: Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing. 22. And they all bore witness of him, and marvelled at the sweet words that proceeded out of his mouth, and said: Is not this Joseph's son? 23. And he said unto them: Ye will certainly say unto me this saying, Physician, help thyself. For how great things have we heard done in Capernaum? Do likewise here in thy country. 24. And he said, Verily I say unto you, There is no prophet pleasant in his own country. 25. But in truth I say unto you, There were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there was a great famine throughout all the land; 26. And unto none was Elijah sent, but unto Sarepta of the Sidonians only, unto a widow. 27. And there were many lepers in Israel in the days of Elisha the prophet: and none was cleansed, save Naaman only of Syria. 28. And they were filled with wrath, all they that were in the synagogue, when they heard it. 29. And they arose, and thrust him out of the city, and brought him up into a hill of the mountain whereon their city was built, to cast him down. 30. But he passed through the midst of them. 31. And came to Capernaum, the city of Galilee, and taught them the sabbaths. 32. And they marvelled at his doctrine: for his speech was mighty. 33. And there was a man in the synagogue possessed with an unclean devil. And he cried aloud 34. And said, Hold, what have we to do with thee, JEsus of Nazareth? Thou art come to destroy us. I know who thou art, even the Holy One of God. 35. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Cease, and come out of him. And the devil cast him into the midst of them, and departed from him, and did him no hurt. 36. And fear came upon them all, and they spake one to another, saying: What is this thing? He giveth power and authority unto unclean spirits, and they go forth. 37. And his cry went forth into all the villages of the country round about. 38. And he arose out of the synagogue, and came into Simon's house. And Simon's sister in law was sore sick of a fever: and they besought him for her. 39. And he came unto her, and commanded the fever, and it left her. And straightway she arose, and ministered unto them. 40. And when the sun was down, all they that were sick with divers diseases brought them unto him. And he laid his hands on every one, and healed them. 41. And the devils came out of many, crying out, and saying: Thou art the Christ, the Son of God. And he afflicted them, and suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ. 42. And when it was day, he went out into a desolate place: and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he departed not from them. 43. And he said unto them: I must preach the gospel of the kingdom of God also unto other cities: for to this end am I sent. 44. And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee. (Luke) Chapter 5 Peter's fishing, a leper and a gout-ridden man, Matthew's calling and the disciples' fasting. 1. And it came to pass, when the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, that he stood by the sea of Galilee. 2. And saw two ships standing by the sea; and the fishermen were gone out, and were washing their nets; 3. And he stood in the ship of one that was Simon's, and besought him that he would lead it a little way from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. 4. And when he had ceased speaking, he said unto Simon, Go up into the high place, and let down your nets, that ye may make a draught. 5. And Simon answered and said unto him, Master, we have wrought all night, and have caught nothing: but at thy word I will let down the net. 6. And when they had done this, they decided a great multitude of fishes; and their net brake. 7. And they beckoned unto their fellows that were in the other ship, that they should come and help them to draw. And they came, and filled both the ships, and they sank. 8. And when Simon Peter saw it, he fell on his knees unto JESUS, and said, Lord, depart from me: I am a sinful man. 9. For there was a terror come upon him, and upon all that were with him, because of this fishing which they had done together; 10. The same also James and John the sons of Zebedee, Simon's companions. And JEsus said unto Simon, Fear not: for henceforth thou shalt catch men. 11. And they led the ships to land, and left all, and followed him]. 12. And it came to pass, as he was in a certain city, behold, there was a man full of leprosy. And when he saw JEsum, he fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst cleanse me. 13. And he put forth his hand, and touched him, and said: I will do it; be cleansed. And straightway the leprosy departed from him. 14. And he commanded him that he should tell no man: but go and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. 15. And the fame of him spread abroad, and many people came together, that they might hear, and be healed of their sicknesses by him. 16. And he departed into the wilderness, and prayed. 17. And it came to pass in one day, that he taught, and there sat the Pharisees and scribes, which were come out of all the villages of Galilee, and of Judea, and of Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord went out from him, and helped every man. 18. And, behold, certain men brought a man on a bed, sick of the palsy; and they sought how they might bring him in, and lay him before him. 19. And when they could not find a place in the sight of the people to bring him in, they went up to the roof, and let him down through the tiles with the little bed in the midst of them before JEsus. 20. And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins be forgiven thee. 21. And the scribes and Pharisees began to think, saying: Who is he that speaketh blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone? 22. And when Jesus knew their thoughts, he answered and said unto them: What think ye in your hearts? 23. Which is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee? or to say, Arise, and walk? 24. And that ye might know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, he saith unto the sick of the palsy: I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go home. 25. And straightway he arose before their eyes, and took up the little bed whereon he had lain, and went home praising God. 26. And they were all amazed, and glorified God, and were filled with fear, and said: We have seen strange things this day. 27. And afterward he went out, and saw a publican named Levi sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. 28. And he left all, and arose, and followed him. 29. And Levi made him a great supper in his house: and many publicans and others sat at meat with him. 30. And the scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying: Why eat ye and drink ye with publicans and sinners? 31. And JEsus answered and said unto them: The healthy have no need of a physician, but the sick. 32. I am come to call sinners to repentance, and not the righteous. 33. And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast so often, and pray so much, as the disciples of the Pharisees, but thy disciples eat and drink? 34. And he said unto them: Ye shall not make the wedding people fast, while the bridegroom is with them. 35. But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. 36. And he spake unto them a parable: No man putteth a rag of a new garment upon an old garment; but if any other, the new is rent, and the rag of the new is not rhymed with the old. 37. And no man putteth must into old wineskins: otherwise the must breaketh the wineskins, and is spilled, and the wineskins perish. 38. But the must shall be put into new bottles, and they shall keep them both. 39. And there is none that drinketh of the old, and desireth soon of the new: for he saith, The old is meeker. (Luke) Chapter 6 Of ears of corn plucked up, withered hand, the apostle calling and Christ's Field Sermon. 1. And it came to pass on a sabbath day, that he went through the corn; and his disciples plucked up ears of corn, and did eat, and rubbed them with their hands. 2. And some of the Pharisees said unto them: Why do ye that which ought not to be done on the sabbaths? 3. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Have ye not read the things which David did, when he hungered, and they that were with him? 4. How he entered into the house of God, and took the shewbread, and did eat, and gave also to them that were with him, whom none might eat save the priests only? 5. And said unto them: The Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day. 6. And it came to pass on another sabbath, that he went into the synagogue, and taught. And there was a man whose right hand was withered. 7. But the scribes and Pharisees kept watch against him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day, that they might find a cause against him. 8. And he perceived their thoughts, and said unto the man with the withered hand, Arise, and stand forth. And he arose, and went forth. 9. Then said JEsus unto them, I ask you: What is it meet to do on the sabbaths, to do good, or to do evil, to preserve life, or to destroy it? 10. And he looked on them all round about, and said unto the man, Remove thy hand. And he did so. And his hand was restored unto him sound as the other. 11. And they became quite senseless, and reasoned with one another what they would do to him. 12. And it came to pass in those days, that he went up into a mountain to pray; and he tarried overnight in prayer unto GOD. 13. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose their twelve, whom also he called apostles: 14. Simon, whom he called Peter, and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, 15. Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon; called Zelotes, 16. Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot the traitor. 17. And he went down with them, and stood in a place in the field, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of the people of all the country of Judaea, and Jerusalem, and Tyre and Sidon, which are by the sea, 18. They that came to hear him, and to be healed of their infirmities, and that were driven about with unclean spirits, were healed. 19. And all the people longed to touch him, because power was gone out of him: and he healed them all. 20. And he lifted up his eyes upon his disciples, and said, Blessed are ye poor: for the kingdom of God is yours. 21. Blessed are ye that hunger here: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep here: for ye shall laugh. 22. Blessed are ye, if men hate you, and separate you, and reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, because of the Son of man. 23. Rejoice then, and leap: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven. Likewise also did their fathers unto the prophets. 24. But woe unto you that are rich: for ye have lost your comfort. 25. Woe unto you that are full; for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh here! for ye shall weep and wail. 26. Woe unto you, if any man speak well unto you! So did their fathers to the false prophets: 27. But I say unto you that hear: Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you; 28. Bless them that curse you; pray for them that offend you. 29. And whosoever smiteth thee on one beam, offer the other also: and whosoever taketh away thy coat, refuse him not thy skirt also. 30. Whosoever shall ask of thee, give him; and whosoever shall take from thee thine own, ask it not again. 31. And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them. 32. And ye that love you, what thanks have ye? For sinners also love their lovers. 33. And if ye do well to your benefactors, what thanks have ye? For sinners also do the same. 34. And if ye lend of them which ye hope to take, what thanks have ye of them? For sinners also lend to sinners, that they may receive in like manner. 35. But love your enemies; do well, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Most High. For he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. 36. Therefore be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. 37. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged. Condemn not, neither be ye condemned Forgive, and ye shall be forgiven. 38. Give, and it shall be given unto you. A full measure, pressed down, shaken, and superfluous, shall be given into your bosom: for even with the measure that ye measure with shall ye be measured again. 39. And he told them a parable: May a blind man show a blind man the way? Will they not both fall into the pit? 40. The disciple is not above his master: if he be younger than his master, he is perfect. 41. And why seest thou a mote in thy brother's eye, and seest not the beam in thine own eye? 42. Or how canst thou say unto thy brother, Hold thy peace, brother? I will pull the mote out of thine eye; and thou thyself seest not the beam in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite! Pull first the beam out of thine eye, and then besiege thou to pull the mote out of thy brother's eye]. 43. For there is no good tree that bringeth forth corrupt fruit, neither is there a corrupt tree that bringeth forth good fruit. 44. Every tree is known by his own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, neither are grapes gathered from hedges. 45. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth good things: and a wicked man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth evil things. For whose heart is full, his mouth overflows. 46. But why call ye me, O Lord, and do not those things which I say unto you? 47. Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my words, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like. 48. He is like a man that built a house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation upon the rock. And when the waters came, the river ran to the house, and could not move it: for it was founded upon the rock. 49. But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that buildeth an house upon the earth without a foundation: and the river ran to it, and it fell down quickly, and the house was broken in pieces. (Luke) Chapter 7 Of the centurion's servant, the young man of Nain, John and his disciples, and the great sinner. 1. And after he had spoken before the people, he went to Capernaum. 2. And a centurion's servant lay sick of death, whom he held worthy. 3. And when he heard of JEsu, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. 4. And when they were come to JEsu, they besought him diligently, saying: He is worthy that thou shouldest shew it him; 5. For he loveth our people, and he hath built us a school. 6. And Jesus went with them. And when they were not far from the house, the centurion sent friends unto him, saying, Lord, trouble not thyself. I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof; 7. For this cause also have I not counted myself worthy to come unto thee: but speak a word, and my child shall be healed. 8. For I also am a man subject unto authority, and have servants of war under me; and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh: Come hither, and he shall come; and to my servant, Do this, and he shall do it. 9. And when JEsus heard it, he marvelled at him, and turned, and said unto the people that followed him: I tell you, I have not found such faith in Israel. 10. And when the messengers returned home, they found the sick servant well. 11. And it came to pass after this, that he went into a city called Nain; and his disciples went with him much, and much people. 12. And when he was come nigh unto the gate of the city, behold, a dead man was carried out, which was an only son of his mother; and she was a widow. And many people of the city went with her. 13. And when the LORD saw her, he was sorry for her, and said unto her, Weep not. 14. And he came and touched the coffin. And the bearers stood. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, arise. 15. And the dead man arose, and began to speak. And he gave him to his mother. 16. And fear came upon them all, and they praised God, and said: There is a great prophet risen up among us, and: GOD hath afflicted his people. 17. And this saying of his went out into all the land of Judah, and into all the countries round about]. 18: And John's disciples told him all these things. And he called unto him of his disciples two 19. And sent them unto JEsu, saying, Art thou he that is to come, or shall we wait for another? 20. And when the men were come unto him, they said, John the Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come, or shall we wait for another? 21. And in that same hour he healed many from pestilence, and from plagues, and from evil spirits, and gave sight to many that were blind. 23. And blessed is he that taketh no offense at me. 24. And when John's messengers were gone, Jesus began to say unto John's people, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? Did ye desire to see a reed moved by the wind? 25. Or what went ye out to see? Would ye see a man in soft apparel? Behold, they that live in glorious apparel and lusts are in the royal courts. 26. Or what went ye out to see? Did ye desire to see a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, he that is more than a prophet. 27. He of whom it is written, Behold, I send my angel before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28. For I say unto you, That among them which are born of women there is no greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is less in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29. And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, and were baptized with the baptism of John. 30. But the Pharisees and scribes despised God's counsel against themselves, and would not be baptized of Him. 31. But the LORD said, To whom shall I liken the men of this generation, and to whom are they like? 32. They are like the children that sit in the market, and call one against another, and say: We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not wept. 33. For John the Baptist came, and did neither eat bread, nor drink wine; so ye say, He hath the devil. 34. The Son of man is come, eat ye, and drink ye, saying, Behold, man is a glutton, and a winebibber, a publican's and a sinner's friend. 35. And wisdom must be justified by all her children. 36. And one of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him: and he entered into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. 37. And, behold, there was a woman in the city, a sinner. When she heard that he sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, she brought a jar of ointments. 38. And stood behind at his feet, and wept, and began to wet his feet with tears, and to wipe them with the hair of their head; and kissed his feet, and anointed them with ointments. 39. And when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. 40. And JEsus answered and said unto him, Simon, I have a word to say unto thee. And he said, Master, tell me. 41. A certain usurer had two debtors. One owed five hundred pennies, the other fifty. 42. And when they had not money to pay, he gave it to both of them. Tell me, which of them will love him the most? 43. Simon answered and said: I respect him to whom he hath given the most. And he said unto him, Thou hast judged rightly. 44. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I came into thine house, and thou gavest me no water for my feet: but this woman hath wetted my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head. 45. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman, when she was come in, she ceased not from kissing my feet. 46. Thou hast not anointed my head with oil; but she hath anointed my feet with ointments. 47. Therefore I say unto thee: Her sins are forgiven much, because she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, he loveth little. 48. And he said unto her, Thy sins be forgiven thee. 49. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves: Who is this that forgiveth sins? 50. And he said unto the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee: go in peace:] (Luke) Chapter 8 Of the seed of the word of God, of the impetuosity of the sea, of the possessed, of the sick woman, and of the little daughter of Jairus. 1. And it came to pass after this, that he travelled through cities and towns, preaching and shewing the gospel of the kingdom of God; and the twelve with him, 2. And certain women which he had healed of evil spirits and diseases, even Mary Magdalene, from whom seven devils departed, 3. And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's keeper, and Susanna, and many others, which gave him of their substance. 4. And when much people were gathered together, and were hastened unto him out of the cities, he spake by a parable: 5. And there went out a sower to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and were substituted, and the fowls of the air devoured them. 6. And some fell upon the rock; and when it arose, it withered, because it had no sap. 7. And some fell among the thorns; and the thorns came up with it, and choked it. 8. And some fell upon a good land, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said this, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 9. And his disciples asked him, saying, What is this parable? 10. And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but unto others in parables, that they should not see, though they see it already; neither understand, though they hear it already. 11. Now this is the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12. But they that are in the way are they which hear; afterward cometh the devil, and taketh away the word from their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13. But they that are on the rock are they: when they hear it, they receive the word with joy. And they have not root: For a time they believe, and in time of disputation they fall away. 14. And that which fell among thorns are they which hear it, and go down to the sorrows, and riches, and lusts of this life, and are choked, and bring no fruit. 15. But those that are in the good land are they which hear the word, and keep it in a fine good heart, and bring forth fruit in patience]. 16. But no man kindleth a light, and covereth it with a vessel, or setteth it under a bench; but setteth it upon a candlestick, that whosoever entereth in may see the light. 17. For there is nothing hid, that shall not be revealed; neither is there anything secret, that shall not be known and come to light. 18. Take heed therefore how ye hearken. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given; but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away, even that which he thinketh he hath. 19. And his mother and his brethren went their way, and could not come unto him before the people. 20. And it was told him, saying, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. 21. And he answered and said unto them: My mother and my brothers are these who hear God's word and do it. 22. And it came to pass in those days, that he entered into a ship with his disciples. And he said unto them: Let us go over the lake. And they came up from the land. 23. And as they sailed, he fell asleep. And there came a whirlwind upon the sea, and the waves overtook them, and they were in great peril. 24. And they came unto him, and awoke him, and said: Master, master, we perish! And he arose, and rebuked the wind and the flood; and the wind ceased, and there was silence. 25. And he said unto them: Where is your faith? And they feared, and wondered, and said one to another, Who is this? For he believeth the wind and the water, and they obey him. 26. And they departed into the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee. 27. And as he went out into the country, there met him a man of the city. And he had devils from of old, and put on no raiment, and abode in no house, but in the tombs. 28. And when he saw JEsum, he cried out, and fell down before him, and cried with a loud voice, saying, What have I to do with thee, O JEsu, thou Son of GOD most high? I pray thee, torment me not. 29. For he commanded the unclean spirit to depart from the man: for he had long afflicted him. And he was bound with chains, and bound with fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wildernesses. 30. And JEsus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion. For many devils were entered into him. 31. And they besought him that he would not let them go down into the deep. 32. And there was there a great herd of swine feeding in the pasture of the mountain. And they besought him that he would give them leave to go into them. And he gave them permission. 33. And the devils departed out of man, and lead in swine. And the flock plunged with a tempest into the lake, and were drowned. 34. And when the shepherds saw what was done, they fled, and told it in the city and in the villages. 35. And they went out to see what was done, and came to JEsu, and found the man, from whom the devils were gone out, sitting at the feet of JEsu, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 36. And they that saw it told them, how that he that was possessed with devils was healed. 37. And all the multitude of the country round about of the Gadarenes besought him that he would depart from them. For great fear had come upon them. And he entered into the ship, and turned again. 38. But the man from whom the devils had gone out begged him to be with him. But Jesus sent him away and said: 39. Return home, and tell how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went and preached throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done for him. 40. And it came to pass, when JEsus was come again, that the people received him: for they were all waiting for him. 41. And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, which was a ruler of the synagogue, and fell at JEsu's feet, and besought him to come into his house: 42. For he had a certain daughter about twelve years old, which was in her last days. And as he went, the people pressed upon him. 43. And a certain woman had had the issue of blood twelve years: she had turned all her food unto physicians, and could be healed of none. 44. And she came up behind him, and touched the hem of his garment; and straightway the issue of blood came upon her. 45. And Jesus said, Who touched me? And when they all denied it, Peter said, and they that were with him: Master, the people press and press thee, and thou sayest, Who touched me? 46. And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I feel that a power is gone out of me. 47. And when the woman saw that it was not hid, she came with trembling, and fell down before him, and declared before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed straightway. 48. And he said unto her, Be of good cheer, my daughter; thy faith hath saved thee: go in peace. 49. While he yet spake, one of the servants of the ruler of the synagogue came and said unto him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the master. 50. And when Jesus heard it, he answered and said unto him, Fear not. Only believe, and she shall be healed. 51. And when he was come into the house, he suffered no man to enter in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and mother of the child. 22. And they wept all, and lamented for them. But he said, Weep not. She is not dead, but sleepeth. 53. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. 54. And he drove them all out, and took them by the hand, and cried, saying, Child, arise. 55. And her spirit returned, and she arose straightway. And he commanded that they should feed her. 56. And their parents were astonished. And he commanded them that they should tell no man what was done. (Luke) Chapter 9 Of the twelve apostles, five loaves, Christ's transfiguration and passion, the disciples' ambition and zeal. 1. And he called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and that they might heal pestilences. 2. And sent them forth to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. The sick. 3. And he said unto them: Ye shall take nothing for your journey, neither staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; neither shall any man have two coats. 4. And whither ye go into one house, there abide till ye depart from thence. 5. And they that receive you not, come out of the same city, and shake off the dust of your feet for a testimony against them. 6. And they went out, and went through the markets, preaching the gospel, and healing in every place. 7. And it came to pass before Herod the tetrarch, that all things were done by him: and he was troubled, because it was said of some, John is risen from the dead; 8. And of some, Elias hath appeared; and of some, One of the old prophets is risen. 9. And Herod said, John, him have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear these things? And desired to see him. 10. And the apostles came again, and told him how great things they had done: and he took them, and departed specially into a wilderness near the city which is called Bethsaida. 11. And when the people perceived it, they followed him. And he sent for them, and told them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that needed it. But the day began to draw near. 12. And the twelve came unto him, and said unto him, Send the people away from thee, that they may go into the villages round about, and find lodging and meat: for we are here in the wilderness. 13. And he said unto them: Give ye them to eat. And they said: We have not more than five loaves and two fishes: except we go and buy meat for so great a multitude. 14. (For there were about five thousand men.) And he said unto his disciples, Let them sit down by strata, fifty by fifty. 15. And they did so, and sat down all of them. 16. And he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks, and brake them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. 17. And they did eat, and were all filled: and they took up that which was left them of the fragments, twelve baskets. 18. And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, and his disciples with him, he asked them, saying, Who do men say that I am? 19. And they answered and said, They say that thou art John the Baptist; and some that thou art Elias; and some that one of the old prophets is risen. 20. And he said unto them: But who do ye say that I am? Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ of God. 21. And he afflicted them, and commanded that they should tell no man, 22. And said, For the Son of man must yet suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be put to death, and rise again the third day. 23. Then said he unto them all: If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall save it. 25. And what profit would a man have if he gained the whole world and lost himself or damaged himself? 26. But whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed also, when he cometh in his glory, and of his Father, and of the holy angels. 27. But verily I say unto you, That there be some of them which stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. 28. And it came to pass about eight days after these sayings, that he took Peter, and John, and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. 29. And as he prayed, the form of his countenance was changed, and his raiment became white and shining. 30. And, behold, two men talked with him, which were Moses and Elias. 31. Which appeared in plainness, and spake of the end which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. 32. And Peter, and they that were with him, were full of sleep. And when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men standing by him. 33. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto JESUS, Master, here is good: let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. And he knew not what he spake. 34. And as he spake these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them. And they were afraid, because the cloud overshadowed them. 35. and there fell a voice from the Cloud which said, This is my beloved Son, him shall ye hear. 36. And when this voice was heard, they found Jesus alone. And they kept silence, and told no man any thing in those days which they had seen. 37. And it came to pass on the morrow, as they came down from the mountain, much people met them. 38. And, behold, a man of the people cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, possess my son: for he is mine only son. 39. Behold, the spirit taketh hold upon him, and straightway he crieth out, and teareth him, and he foameth; and with distress he departeth from him, when he hath torn him. 40. And I besought thy disciples to cast him out, and they could not. 41. Then answered JEsus, and said, O faithless and perverse kind! How long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither. 42. And when he was come unto him, the devil rent him, and tore him asunder. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and restored him unto his father. 43. And they were all astonished at the glory of GOD. And when they were all astonished at all that he did, he said unto his disciples: 44. Take ye in your ears these sayings. For the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of men. 45. But they heard not the word, and it was hid from them, that they understood it not: and they feared to ask him the same word. 46. There came also a thought among them, which of them would be the greatest. 47. And when JESUS saw the thought of their heart, he took hold of a child, and set him by his side. 48. And said unto them: He that receiveth the child in my name receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. But he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. 49. Then John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we rebuked him: for he followed not thee with us. 50. And JEsus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us. 51. And it came to pass, when the time was fulfilled for him to be taken away, that he turned his face to go straightway to Jerusalem. 52. And he sent messengers before him; and they went, and came into a market of the Samaritans, to give him lodging. 53. And they received him not, because he had turned his face to walk toward Jerusalem. 54. And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said: Lord, if thou wilt, let us say, Fire shall fall from heaven, and consume them, as Elias did. 55. But JEsus turned and afflicted them, and said, Know ye not of what manner of spirit ye are the children? 56. The Son of man is not come to destroy men's souls, but to preserve them. 57. And they went into another market. And it came to pass, when they were in the way, that one said unto him, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. 58. And JESUS said unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. 59. And he said unto another: Follow me. And he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. 60. But JESUS said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou, preach the kingdom of GOD. 61. And another said, Lord, I will come after thee: but let me first make a parting with them that are in my house. 62. And JESUS said unto him, Whosoever putteth his hand to the plough, and looketh back, is not sent into the kingdom of GOD. (Luke) Chapter 10 Seventy disciples. Parable of the Good Samaritan. Mary at Jesus' feet. 1. Afterward the LORD separated other seventy, and sent them two and two before him into all the cities and places where he would come. 2. And said unto them: The harvest is great, but the labourer is few: pray the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. 3. Go ye your way. Behold, I send you as lambs in the midst of wolves. 4. No bag, nor pocket, nor shoes, and greet no man in the street. 5. Whithersoever ye enter into any house, speak ye first, saying, Peace be in this house. 6. And if there be a child of peace there, your peace shall be upon him: but if not, your peace shall return unto you. 7. But abide in the same house, eating and drinking what they have: for a labourer is worthy of his hire. Ye shall not go from house to house. 8. And when ye come into a city, and they receive you, then eat that which is set before you, 9. And heal the sick which are there, and say unto them: The kingdom of God has come near to you. 10. But if ye enter into any city, and they receive you not, go out into the streets thereof, and say: 11. Even the dust that clave unto us out of your city, we will smite upon you: but ye shall know that the kingdom of God is nigh unto you. 12. I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom in that day than for that city. 13. Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe unto thee, Bethsaida! For if such deeds had been done in Tyre and Sidon as have been done among you, they would have sat in sackcloth and ashes and repented in time past. 14. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the judgment, than for you. 15. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be cast down to hell. 16. He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me: and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. 17. And the seventy came again with joy, and said: Lord, even the devils are subject unto us in thy name. 18. And he said unto them: I saw Satan fall from heaven as lightning. 19. Behold, I have given you power to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall hurt you. 20. But in this rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. 21. At that hour rejoiced JEsus in spirit, and said: I praise thee, Father and Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: Yea, Father, it was well pleasing in thy sight. 22. All things are delivered unto me of my Father. And no one knows who the Son is but the Father, nor who the Father is but the Son, and to whom the Son will reveal it. 23. And he turned to his disciples, and said in particular, Blessed are the eyes which see those things which ye see. 24. For I say unto you, That many prophets and kings would see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. 25. And, behold, a certain scribe arose, and tempted him, saying, Master, what must I do to inherit eternal life? 26. And he said unto him, How is it written in the law? How readest thou? 27. And he answered and said, Thou shalt love GOD thy LORD with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. 28. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: do this, and thou shalt live. 29. But he, desiring to justify himself, said unto JEsu, Who then is my neighbour? 30. Then answered JEsus, and said, There was a certain man which went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among the murderers: and they stripped him, and smote him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31. And it came to pass about this time, that a priest went down that street: and when he saw him, he passed by. 32. And likewise a Levite: when he came to the place, and saw him, he passed by. 33. And a certain Samaritan journeyed, and came thither: and when he saw him, his lamentation was upon him, 34. And went unto him, and bound up his wounds, and poured oil and wine therein, and lifted him up upon his beast, and brought him to the inn, and nursed him. 35. And the next day he journeyed, and drew out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care; and if thou shalt show any more, I will pay thee when I come again. 36. Which of these three thinkest thou to be next unto him that fell among the murderers? 37. And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said JEsus unto him, Go thy way, and do likewise]. 38. And it came to pass, as they walked, he went into a market, and there was a woman named Martha, which received him into her house. 39. And she had a sister named Mary, which sat down at JEsu's feet, and heard his sayings. 40. And Martha made much effort to minister unto him. And she came near, and said, Lord, dost thou not ask that my sister should let me serve alone? Tell her, I pray thee, that she also may attack it. 41. And JEsus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou hast much care and trouble. 42. But one thing is needful: for Mary hath purchased the good part; it shall not be taken away from her. (Luke) Chapter 11 Formula and power of prayer, casting out of Satan, demand for signs, guest - and punitive sermon of Christ. 1. And it came to pass, that he was in a certain place praying. And when he had ceased, one of his disciples saith unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. 2. And he said unto them: When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 3. Give us our daily bread for evermore. 4. And forgive us our sins: for we also forgive all that are indebted unto us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 5. And he said unto them: What man is there among you that hath a friend, and goeth unto him at midnight, and saith unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves? 6. for it is my friend come to me from the street, and I have not what I set before him; 7. And he within would answer and say: Trouble me not: for the door is shut, and my children are with me in the chamber; I cannot rise up to give thee. 8. I say unto you, Though he rise not up, and give him, because he is his friend, yet will he rise up, and give him as much as he hath need, for the sake of his unseemly lust. 9. And I say also unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 11. Where shall a son ask bread of his father, and he shall offer him a stone for it? and shall he ask a fish, and he shall offer him a serpent for the fish? 12. or so he asks for an egg, who offers him a scorpion for it?. 13. If ye then, being evil, are able to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall the Father which is in heaven give the Holy Ghost to them that ask him? 14. And he cast out a devil that was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, that the dumb man spake. And the people marvelled. 15. And some of them said: He casteth out devils by Beelzebub, the chief of the devils. 16. And the rest tempted him, and desired a sign of him from heaven. 17. And he heard their thoughts, and said unto them: Every kingdom, if it be divided against itself, shall be desolate; and one house shall fall upon another. 18. If Satan also be at variance with himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say, I cast out devils by Beelzebub. 19. But if I cast out devils by Beelzebub, by whom do they cast out your children? Therefore they shall be your judges. 20. But if I by the fingers of God cast out devils, the kingdom of God will ever come to you. 21. If a strong man keep his palace, his own shall be in peace. 22. And if a stronger man come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh away his armour, whereon he trusted, and divideth the spoil. 23. He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. 24. When the unclean spirit departeth from a man, it walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth it not: so saith it: I will return to my house from whence I came. 25. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and decked with besomes. 26. Then he goeth and seeth seven spirits worse than himself, and when they are come in, they dwell there: and afterward he is worse with the same man than before. 27. And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the people lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the breasts which thou hast sucked. 28. And he said, Yea, blessed are they that hear the word of GOD, and keep it]. 29. And the people pressed in. And he began to say, This is a wicked kind; it desireth a sign, and no sign is given unto it, save the sign of Jonas the prophet. 30. For as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so shall the Son of man be to this generation. 31. The queen of the south shall appear before the judgment with the men of this generation, and shall condemn them: for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon. And, behold, here is more than Solomon. 32; The people of Nineveh shall appear before the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn them: for they repented after the preaching of Jonah. And, behold, here is more than Jonah. 33. No man kindleth a light, and putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but upon a candlestick, that whosoever entereth in may see the light. 34. The eye is the light of the body. If therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body is light. But if thine eye be evil, thy body also is dark. 35. Take heed therefore, lest the light in thee be darkness. 36. If therefore thy body be altogether light, that it have no part of darkness; it shall be altogether light, and shall lighten thee as the brightness of a flash. 37. And while he was speaking, one of the Pharisees besought him that he would eat the noon supper with him all. And he went in, and sat down to meat. 38. And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not washed before he did eat. 39. And the LORD said unto him, Ye Pharisees keep the vessels and the bowls clean by heart; but your inward parts are full of robbery and wickedness. 40. Ye fools, think ye that the inward parts are clean, when the outward parts are clean? 41. But give alms of that which is, behold, all is clean unto you. 42.. But woe unto you Pharisees, that ye should despise mint, and rue, and all manner of cabbage, and pass by the judgment and love of God! You should do this and not leave that. 43. Woe unto you Pharisees, because ye love to sit up in the synagogues, and to be saluted in the marketplace! 44. Woe unto you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, that ye are as the hidden grave-diggers, over which men walk, and know them not! 45. And one of the scribes answered and said unto him, Master, with these words thou also revileest us. 46. And he said, And woe also unto you scribes! For ye load men with burdens unbearable, and ye touch them not with a finger. 47. Woe unto you! For ye build the graves of the prophets: but your fathers slew them. 48. Ye do indeed bear witness, and give your consent of the work of your fathers: for they slew them, and ye build their graves. 49. Therefore thus saith the wisdom of God; I will send prophets and apostles unto them, and they shall kill and persecute some of them, 50. That the blood of this generation of all the prophets might be required, which is shed since the foundation of the world, 51. From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple. Yea, I say unto you, it shall be required of this generation. 52. Woe unto you scribes! for ye have the key of knowledge. Ye shall not enter in, and ye shall hinder them that enter in. 53. And when he had said these things unto them, the scribes and Pharisees began to press hard upon him, and to stop his mouth with many questions, 54. And lay wait for him, seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might have a cause against him. (Luke) Chapter 12 The qualities and obstacles of faith 1. And the people ran, and gathered together many thousands, so that they stood one among another. Then began he, and said unto his disciples, First, beware of the leaven of the. Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2. But there is nothing hid, that shall not be made manifest; neither is there anything secret, that shall not be known. 3. Therefore whatsoever ye shall say in darkness shall be heard in light; and whatsoever ye shall speak in the ears of the chambers shall be preached upon the housetops. 4. But I say unto you, my friends: Fear not them which kill the body, and after that can do no more. 5. But I will shew you of whom ye shall be afraid: fear him, who after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell. Yea, I say unto you, of him be ye afraid. 6. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Not one of them is yet forgotten in the sight of God. 7. And the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: for ye are better than many sparrows. 8. But I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man confess before the angels of God. 9. But whosoever shall deny me before men, the same shall be denied before the angels of GOD. 10. And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him. 11. And when they shall bring you into their synagogues, and before the authorities, and before the mighty, be not anxious how or what ye shall answer, or what ye shall say. 12. For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in that hour what ye ought to say. 13. And one of the people said unto him, Master, tell my brother that he may divide the inheritance with me. 14. And he said unto him, Man, who hath made me a judge or a hereditary judge over you? 15. And said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness. For no man liveth by having much goods. 16. And he spake a parable unto them, saying, There was a certain rich man, whose field was well borne. 17. And he thought upon himself, and said, What shall I do? I have not, as I gather my fruits. 18. And he said, This will I do; I will break down my barns, and build greater, and gather therein all that I have grown, and my goods. 19. And I will say unto my soul, Good soul, thou hast a great store for many years: now have thou rest, and drink, and be of good courage. 20. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee; and what shall it be that thou hast prepared? 21. So it is with him that layeth up for himself treasures, and is not rich in God. 22. And he said unto his disciples: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for your body, what ye shall do. 23. The life is more than meat, and the body than raiment. 24. Behold the ravens: they sow not, neither do they reap, neither have they a cellar or a barn: yet God feedeth them. But how much better are ye than the birds! 25. Which of you, though he be anxious, is there among you that might add to his greatness in haste? 26. If then ye be not able to do the least thing, why take ye care of the other? 27. Observe the lilies of the field, how they grow: they work not, neither do they spin. But I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed as one. 28. If the grass which is in the field to day, and to morrow is cast into the oven, thus doth God clothe, how much more shall he clothe you, O ye of little faith! 29. Therefore ye also, ask not what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, and go not up. here! 30. These things the heathen of the world seek after: but your Father knoweth that ye have need of them. 31. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. 32. Fear not, little flock: for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33. Sell that ye have, and give alms. Make for yourselves coffers that do not grow old, a treasure that never diminishes in heaven, where no thief comes, and which moths do not devour. 34. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 35. Let your loins be girded, and your lights be burning 36. And be ye like unto men that wait for their lord, when he shall depart from the marriage: that, when he cometh and knocketh, they may soon open unto him. 37. Blessed are the servants whom the LORD find watching when he comes. Verily I say unto you, He shall array himself, and shall set them at meat, and go before them, and minister unto them. 38. And if he come in the second watch, and in the third watch, and find it so, blessed are these servants. 39. But this ye ought to know: If a householder knew the hour of the thief's coming, he would keep watch and not let anyone break into his house. 40. Therefore be ye also ready. For the Son of man shall come in the hour when ye think not. 41. And Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or also unto all? 42. And the LORD said, What a great thing is a faithful and prudent steward, whom the LORD hath set over his servants, to give them their hire in due season. 43. Blessed is the servant whom his lord findeth doing so when he cometh. 44. Verily I say unto you, He shall set him over all his goods. 45. And if that servant say in his heart, My lord goeth away, and begineth to smite the menservants and maidservants: My lord draweth nigh, and begineth to smite the menservants and maidservants, and to eat and to drink, and to be drunken, 46. Then shall the lord of that servant come in the day that he knoweth not, and in the hour that he knoweth not, and shall destroy him, and shall give him his reward with the unbelievers. 47. But the servant that knoweth his master's will, and hath not prepared himself, neither done according to his will, shall suffer many stripes. 48. But he that knoweth not, having done that which is worthy of strokes, shall suffer few strokes. For to whom much is given, much shall be sought; and to whom much is commanded, much shall be required. 49. I am come to kindle a fire upon the earth: what would I rather, for it was already burning? 50. But I must first be baptized with a baptism: and how fearful am I until it be accomplished! 51. Think ye that I am come to bring peace on earth? I say no, but discord. 52. For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. 53. The father shall be against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the inlaw against the cord, and the cord against the inlaw. 54. And he said unto the people, When ye see a cloud rising from the west, then ye shall soon say, The rain cometh; and it shall come to pass. 55. And when ye see the south wind blowing, ye say, It shall be hot: and it is so. 56. Ye hypocrites, the form of the earth and of the heaven ye can test, but how do ye not test this time? 57. But why judge ye not yourselves what is right? 58. But if thou goest before the prince with thine adversary, be diligent in the way to be rid of him, lest he bring thee before the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the keeper of the stocks, and the keeper of the stocks cast thee into prison. 59. I tell thee, thou shalt not come out thence, till thou pay the very last shekel. (Luke) Chapter 13 Sermon of repentance from the fall of the Galileans. Of the fig tree, the sick woman, the kingdom of God, the narrow gate and the destruction of Jerusalem. 1. And there were some with him at that time, which told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had with him. 2. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Think ye that these Galilaeans were sinners before all the Galilaeans, who because they suffered these things? 3. I say, Nay; but if ye amend not, ye shall perish also. 4. Or think ye that the eighteen, on whom the tower of Shiloh fell, and slew them, were guilty before all the people that dwell at Jerusalem? 5. I say, Nay; but if ye amend not, ye shall all likewise perish. 6. And he told them this parable: A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came seeking fruit thereon, and found it not. 7. And he said unto the husbandman, Behold, I have now come every year for three years, and have sought fruit upon this fig tree, and find it not. Cut it down; what doth it hinder the land? 8. And he answered and said unto him, Lord, let him tarry yet this year, until I dig for him, and fertilize him, 9. Whether he will bring forth fruit, or not, cut him off afterward. 10. And he taught in a synagogue on the sabbath day. 11. And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of sickness eighteen years; and she was crooked, and could not well look up. 12. And when JEsus saw her, he called her unto him, and said unto her, Woman, be loosed from thy sickness. 13. And he laid his hands upon her; and immediately she arose, and praised GOD. 14. And the ruler of the synagogue answered and was unwilling that JEsus should heal on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which to work: in the same come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day. 15. And the LORD answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, dost not every one of you unhitch his ox or his ass from the manger on the sabbath day, and lead it to water? 16. Shall this woman, who is the daughter of Abraham, be delivered from this bond, which Satan hath bound, eighteen years? 17. And when he had spoken these things, all they that had been against him were ashamed. And all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him. 18. And he said, To whom is the kingdom of God like, and to whom shall I liken it? 19. It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and became a great tree, and the fowls of the air dwelt under the branches thereof: 20. And again he said, To whom shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21. It is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid it under three measures of flour, until it was sour. 22. And he passed through cities and towns, teaching, and took his way to Jerusalem. 23. And one said unto him, Lord, thinkest thou that few shall be saved? And he said unto them: 24. Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able. 25. From that time, when the master of the house is risen, and hath shut the door, then shall ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us. And he shall answer and say unto you, I know not where ye are from. 26. Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk before thee, and in the streets thou hast taught us. 27. And he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are: depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. 28. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and ye shall be cast out. 29. And there shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, to sit at meat in the kingdom of God. 30. And, behold, they are last; they shall be first; and are first, they shall be last. 31. That same day came certain of the Pharisees, and said unto him, Take thee up, and depart hence: for Herod is about to kill thee. 32. And he said unto you: Go ye, and tell the same fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and make whole to day, and to morrow, and the third day I will make an end. 33. But I must walk to day, and to morrow, and in the day following: for it is not good that a prophet should perish out of Jerusalem. 34. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee, how oft have I desired to gather thy children together, as a hen gathereth her nest under her wings; and ye would not! 35. Behold, your house shall be left unto you desolate. For I say unto you: Ye shall not see me, till it come to pass, that ye shall say: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the LORD. (Luke) Chapter 14 Of the water addict, Christ's guest preaching, great supper, and his true discipleship. 1. And it came to pass, that he came into the house of one of the rulers of the Pharisees on a sabbath day to eat bread. 2. And, behold, there was a man before him, which had an addiction to water. 3. And JEsus answered and said unto the scribes and Pharisees, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day? 4. But they held their peace. And he attacked him, and healed him, and let him go. 5. And he answered and said unto them: What man is there among you whose ox or ass falls into the well, and he does not immediately pull it out on the Sabbath day? 6. And they could not answer him thereon again. 7. And he spake a parable unto the guests, when he perceived how they chose to sit on high, and said unto them: 8. If thou be invited by any man to a marriage, set not thyself first, lest a more honest man than thou be invited by him, 9. And when he that hath charged thee and him shall come, say unto thee, Depart from this: and thou shalt sit down with shame. 10. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down at the bottom, that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up. Then thou shalt have honour in the sight of them that sit at meat with thee. 11. For he that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that abaseth himself shall be exalted.] 12. And he said also unto him that bade him, When thou makest a banquet, or a supper, invite not thy friends, nor thy brethren, nor thy kinsmen, nor thy neighbours that are rich; lest they invite thee again, and recompense thee. 13. But when thou makest a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14. and thou shalt be blessed: for they shall not repay thee: but it shall be recompensed thee in the resurrection of the righteous. 15. And when one of them which sat at meat heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that eateth bread in the kingdom of God. 16. And he said unto him, There was a man that made a great supper, and invited many to it. 17. And sent forth his servant at the hour of supper, to say unto them that were bidden: Come, for all things are ready. 18. And they began to excuse themselves one by one. The first said unto him, I have bought a field, and must go out and see it: I pray thee, excuse me. 19. And the other said: I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go now to look at them; I pray thee, excuse me. 20. And the third said: I have taken a wife, therefore I cannot come. 21. And the servant came and told his master again. And the master of the house was wroth, and said unto his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor, and the crippled, and the lame, and the blind. 22. And the servant said, Lord, that which thou hast commanded is done; but there is yet room. 23. And the LORD said unto the servant, Go out into the highways, and unto the fences, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. 24. But I say unto you, that none of the men which are bidden shall taste of my supper]. 25. And there went with him much people. And he turned and said unto them: 26. If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27. And whosoever shall not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. 28. And who is there of you that would build a tower, and sitteth not down first, and considereth the cost, whether he may carry it out? 29. Lest, when he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to bring it forth, all they that see it begin to mock him. 30. Saying, This man beginneth to build, and cannot bring it forth. 31. Or what king will go out to battle against another king, and not sit down first to consider whether he may meet him that cometh upon him with ten thousand and twenty thousand? 32. If not, he sends a message when it is still far away and asks for peace. 33. So also every one of you that renounces not all that he hath cannot be my disciple. 34. Salt is a good thing: but when salt is made foolish, wherewith shall it be seasoned? 35. It is not profitable for the land, nor for the dunghill, but shall be cast away. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Luke) Chapter 15 Prize of divine mercy through parables. 1. And there came near unto him all publicans and sinners to hear him. 2. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying: This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. 3. And he spake unto them this parable, saying: 4. What man is there among you that hath an hundred sheep, and if he lose one, will not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? 5. And when he hath found it, he layeth it upon his shoulder with joy. 6. And when he is come home, he calleth his friends and neighbours, and saith unto them: Rejoice with me: for I have found my sheep which was lost. 7. I say unto you: So also there will be joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, over ninety-nine righteous who have no need of repentance. 8. Or what woman hath ten pence, if she lose one, that lighteth not a light, and turneth the house, and searcheth diligently, until she find him? 9. And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours, and saith, Rejoice with me: for I have found my penny, which I had lost. 10. So also, I say unto you, there shall be joy in the sight of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth]. 11. And he said, A man had two sons. 12. And the youngest of them said unto his father, Give me, father, that part of the goods which is mine. And he divided the goods unto them. 13. And it was not long after that the youngest son gathered all things together. And not long after, the youngest son gathered up all his goods, and went far away into the country; and there he destroyed his goods with plunder. 14. And when he had eaten up all that was his, there was a great famine throughout all that land, and he began to be in want. 15. And he went and hanged himself on a citizen of the same country, and he sent him into his field to feed the swine. 16. And he desired to fill his belly with grains, which the swine did eat: and no man gave them him. 17. And he smote himself, and said, How many hired servants hath my father, which have bread in abundance, and I perish with hunger! 18. I will arise, and go unto my father, and say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee. 19. And I am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me one of thy hired servants. 20. And he arose, and came to his father. And when he was yet afar off, his father saw him, and lamented him, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee; I am no more worthy to be called thy son. 22. But the father said unto his servants: Bring forth the best robe, and put it upon him; and put a ring of fingers upon his hand, and shoes upon his feet; 23. And bring a fatted calf, and slay it: let us eat, and be merry. 24. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And began to be glad. 25. But the eldest son was in the field, and when he was come nigh to the house, he heard the singing and the round dance. 26. And called unto him one of the. Servants one and asked what that was. 27. And he said unto him, Thy brother is come, and thy father hath slain a fatted calf, that he may recover him. 28. And he was wroth, and would not go in. Then his father went out, and besought him. 29. And he answered and said unto his father, Behold, so many years have I served thee, and have never transgressed thy commandment, neither hast thou ever given me a goat, that I might rejoice with my friends. 30. But now that this thy son is come, which hath devoured his substance with harlots, thou hast slain him a fatted calf. 31. And he said unto him, My son, thou art always with me, and all that is mine is thine. 32. And thou shalt be glad and of good cheer: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. (Luke) Chapter 16 Abuse of Wealth. 1. And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and he was reproached before him, as if he had destroyed his goods. 2. And he demanded of him, and said unto him: How can I hear this from thee? Give account of thy stewardship: for thou canst not henceforth be a steward. 3. the steward spoke within himself: What shall I do? My lord taketh the office from me: I dig not, I am ashamed to beg. 4. I know well what I will do, when I am now set apart from the ministry; that they may take me into their houses. 5. And he called unto him all his lord's debtors, and said unto the first, How much owest thou my lord? 6. And he said, An hundred tons of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy letter, and sit down, and write fifty. 7. And afterward he said unto the other: But thou, how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy letter, and write eighty. 8. And the LORD praised the unjust steward, because he had done wisely. For the children of this world are wiser than the children of light in their generation. 9. And I say also unto you, Make ye friends with unrighteous Mammon, that, when ye now offer, they may receive you into the everlasting tabernacles]. 10. He that is faithful in the least is faithful also in the greatest: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in the greatest. 11. If ye then be not faithful in unrighteous mammon, who will trust you in that which is true? 12. And if ye be not faithful in the stranger, who will give you that which is yours? 13. No manservant can serve two masters: either he will hate one, and love another; or else he will cleave to one, and despise another. Ye cannot serve God with mammon. 14. And the Pharisees also heard all these things; and they were covetous, and mocked him. 15. And he said unto them: Ye are they which justify yourselves before men: but God knoweth your hearts. For that which is high among men is abomination in the sight of God. 16. The law and the prophets prophesy unto John: and from that time forth the kingdom of God is preached by the gospel, and every man presseth into it by force. 17. But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away, than for one tittle to fall from the law. 18. Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery: and whosoever shall put away his wife from her husband committeth adultery. 19. Now there was a certain rich man, which clothed himself in purple and fine linen, and lived all his days gloriously and joyfully. 20. And there was a poor man named Lazarus, which lay at his door full of sores. 21. And he desired to be satisfied with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table. But the dogs came and licked his sores. 22. And it came to pass, that the poor man died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom. And the rich man died also, and was buried. 23. And when he was in hell and in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom, 24. Cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the uttermost part of his finger in the water, and cool my tongue: for I suffer torment in this flame. 25. And Abraham said, Remember, son, that thou hast received thy good things in thy life, and Lazarus hath received evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26. And over all this there is a great gulf fixed between us and you: so that they which would go down from hence unto you cannot, neither can they pass over from thence unto us. 27. And he said, I pray thee, O father, that thou wouldest send him into my father's house; 28. For I have yet five brethren, that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. 29. And Abraham said unto him, They have Moses and the prophets: let them hear the same. 30. And he said, Nay, father Abraham; but if one of the dead would go unto them, they would repent. 31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they believe, if any man rise from the dead]. (Luke) Chapter 17 Of vexation, propitiation, faith and works, ten lepers, and the future of the kingdom of God. 1. And he said unto his disciples, It is impossible that trouble should not come: but woe unto him by whom it cometh! 2. It were more profitable for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be cast into the sea, than that he should offend these little ones. 3. Beware! If thy brother sin against thee, punish him; and if he amend, forgive him. 4. And if he sin against thee seven times in a day, and come again unto thee seven times in a day, and say, I repent; thou shalt forgive him. 5. And the apostles said unto the Lord, Strengthen us in the faith. 6. And the LORD said, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, and say unto this mulberry tree, Pluck thee up, and put thee into the sea, it will be obedient unto you. 7. What man is there of you that hath a servant to plow for him, or to feed his cattle, when he cometh home from the field, to say unto him, Go quickly, and sit down to meat? 8. Is it not so, that he saith unto him: Make ready that I may eat supper; apron thyself, and serve me, until I eat and drink: afterward shalt thou also eat and drink? 9. Doth he also thank the same servant, because he hath done that which he was commanded? I do not mean it. 10. So likewise ye, when ye have done all that is commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants; we have done that which we were bound to do. 11. And it came to pass, as he journeyed to Jerusalem, he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. 12. And when he was come into a market, there met him ten leprous men sitting afar off. 13. And they lifted up their voice, and said: JEsu, dear Master, have mercy on us! 14. And when he saw them, he said unto them: Go and show yourselves to the priests. And it came to pass, as they went, they were clean. 15. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned again, and praised God with a loud voice. 16. And fell on his face at his feet, and gave him thanks. And this was a Samaritan. 17. And JEsus answered and said: Were not ten of them pure? But where are the nine? 18. Is there none else found that will turn again, and give glory to God, but this stranger? 19. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way. Thy faith hath helped thee]. 20. And when he was asked of the Pharisees, When cometh the kingdom of God? he answered and said unto them: The kingdom of God does not come with outward gestures. 21. They won't say: here or there it is! For behold, the kingdom of God is within you. 22. And he said unto the disciples, The time shall come, when ye shall desire to see the day of the Son of man, and shall not see it, 23. And they shall say unto you, Behold here, behold there. Go not, neither follow. 24. For as the lightning flasheth from heaven above, and shineth upon all that is under heaven; so shall the Son of man be in his day. 25. But first he must suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation. 26. And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be in the days of the Son of man: 27. And they did eat, and they drank, and they let themselves go, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. 28. The same as it was in the days of Lot: they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built. And it rained on the day that Lot went out of So-dom. Fire and brimstone rained down from heaven and killed them all. 30. In like manner shall it be in that day, when the Son of man shall be revealed. 31. In the same day, he that is on the housetop, and his household goods in the house, let him not go down to fetch them. In the same day, let him who is in the field not turn back to that which is behind him. 32. Remember the wife of Lot. 33. He that seeketh to preserve his soul shall lose it; and he that shall lose it shall save it to life. 34. I say unto you: In that night two shall lie on one couch: one shall be accepted, and the other forsaken. 35. Two shall grind together: the one shall be accepted, and the other forsaken. 36. Two shall be in the field; one shall be accepted, and the other forsaken. 37. And they answered and said unto him, Lord, where then? And he said unto them: Where the carcase is, there do the eagles gather. (Luke) Chapter 18 Prayer and repentance, cross and suffering. 1. And he spake unto them a parable, that men ought always to pray, and not to cease, 2. And said, There was a judge in a city, which feared not God, neither was afraid of any man. 3. And there was a widow in the same city, which came unto him, saying, Deliver me from mine adversary. 4. And he would not for a long time: but afterward he thought within himself: - Whether I fear not God, neither am I afraid of any man, 5. But because this widow troubleth me so much, I will save her, lest she come at the last, and overpower me. 6. Then said the LORD, Hear ye here what the unjust judge saith. 7. But shall not God also save his elect, who cry unto him day and night, and shall have patience over them? 8. I say unto you, He shall save them in a little while. But when the Son of man shall come, thinkest thou that he also shall find faith on the earth? 9. And he spake a parable of this kind unto some that presumed themselves to be righteous, and despised others: 10. And there went up two men into the temple to pray, the one a Pharisee, the other a publican. 11. And the Pharisee stood and prayed with himself thus: I thank thee, O God, that I am not as other men, robbers, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. - 12. I fast twice a week, and give tithes of all that I have. 13. And the publican stood afar off, and would not lift up his eyes to heaven, but smote upon his breast, and said, God, be merciful to me a sinner. 14. I say unto you: This man went down justified into his house before him. For he that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that abaseth himself shall be exalted]. 15. They also brought unto him young children, that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they afflicted them. 16. But JESUS called them unto him, and said, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for such is the kingdom of GOD. 17. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child shall not enter therein. 18. And a certain chief asked him, saying, Good Master, what must I do to inherit eternal life? 19. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? No one is good but the one God. 20. Thou knowest well the commandments, Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness. Thou shalt honor thy father and thy mother. 21. And he said, All these things have I kept from my youth. 22. When JEsus heard it, he said unto him, Thou lackest yet one thing. Sell all that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 23. And when he heard it, he was sad: for he was very rich. 24. And when JE saw that he was grieved, he said, How hardly shall the rich enter into the kingdom of GOD! - 25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. 26. Then said they that heard it. Who then can be saved? 27. And he said, What is impossible with men is possible with God. 28. Then said Peter, Behold, we have left all, and followed thee. 29. And he said unto them: Verily I say unto you, There is no man that shall leave house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30. Who shall not receive again manifold in this time, and in the world to come, eternal life. 31. And he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be fulfilled. 32. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles; and he shall be mocked, and reviled, and spit upon; 33. And they shall scourge him, and kill him. And the third day he shall rise again. 34. But they heard none of these things, and the words were hid from them, and knew not what they were spoken. 35. And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Jericho, that a blind man sat by the way side begging. 36. And when he heard the people passing through, he inquired what these things were. 37. And they told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. 38. And he cried and said, JEsu, thou son of David, have mercy on me. 39. And they that went before afflicted him, that he should hold his peace. But he cried much more, Son of David, have mercy on me. 40. But JEsus stood still, and commanded him to be brought unto him. And when they were brought nigh unto him, he asked him 41. And said, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may see. 42. And JEsus said unto him, Be thou sighted. Thy faith hath helped thee. 43. And straightway he saw, and followed him, and praised GOD. And all the people that saw such things praised GOD]. (Luke) Chapter 19 Of Zacchaeus, familiar pounds, Christ's entry into Jerusalem, sad prophecy, and earnest reformation. 1. And he went in, and passed through Jericho; 2. And, behold, there was a man called Zacchaeus, which was a ruler of publicans, and was rich. 3. And desired to see JEsum, who he was, and could not before the people: for he was small in person. 4. And he ran before, and climbed up a mulberry tree, that he might see it: for there he should pass through. 5. And when JEsus was come to the same place, he looked up, and perceived him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, come down quickly: for I must return to thy house this day. 6. And he came down in haste, and received him with joy. 7. And when they saw it, they all murmured that he had entered into the house of a sinner. 8. And Zacchaeus stood and said unto the LORD, Behold, LORD, half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any man, I restore fourfold. 9. And JESUS said unto him, Salvation is come unto this house this day, because he also is the son of Abraham; 10. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost]. 11. And as they were listening, he continued to speak a parable, because he was near Jerusalem, and they thought that the kingdom of God was about to be revealed, 12. And said, A nobleman went afar off into a country, to possess a kingdom, and then to return. 13. And he called for ten of his servants, and gave them ten pounds, and said unto them: Act until I come again. 14. And his citizens were hostile unto him, and sent messengers after him, saying, We would not have this man to reign over us. 15. And it came to pass, when he was come again after he had taken the kingdom, that he called for the same servants to whom he had given the money, that he might know what every man had done. 16. And the first came near, and said, Lord, thy pound hath earned ten pounds. 17. And he said unto him, O thou faithful servant! Because thou hast been faithful in the least, thou shalt have power over ten cities. 18. And the other came also, and said, Lord, thy pound hath borne five pounds. 19. To whom also he said, And thou shalt be over five cities. 20. And the third came and said, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept in the facecloth. 21 . I was afraid of thee, because thou art a hard man: thou takest up that which thou hast not laid, and reapest that which thou hast not sown hard. 22. And he said unto him, Out of thy mouth do I judge thee, thou wicked man. Didst thou know that I am a hard man, taking that which I have not laid, and reaping that which I have not sown? 23. Why then didst thou not give my money into the exchange bank? and if I had come, I would have required it with usury. 24. And he said unto them that stood by: Take the pound of him, and give it to him that hath ten pounds. 25. And they said unto him, Lord, hath he ten pounds. 26. But I say unto you, That whosoever hath, to him shall be given: but from him that hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken away. 27. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring them, and slay them before me. 28. And when he had said these things, he departed, and went up to Jerusalem. 29. And it came to pass, as he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, and came to the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples. 30. And said, Go into the market which is over against thee; and when ye are come in, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon no man hath sat. Untie it, and bring it. 31. And if any man ask you why ye redeem it, say unto him, The LORD hath need of him. 32. And the messengers went and found as he had said unto them. 33. And when they had redeemed the stuffing, his lords said unto them: Why do ye redeem the stuffing? 34. And they said: The LORD needeth to be. 35. And they brought it to JEsu, and cast their garments upon the filling, and set JEsu thereon. 36. And as he went, they spread their garments in the way. 37. And as he drew nigh, and went down the mount of Olives, all the company of his disciples began to praise GOD with joy in a loud voice for all the deeds which they had seen, 38. And they said: Blessed be he that cometh, a king, in the name of the LORD! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest! 39. And some of the Pharisees among the people said unto him, Master, punish thy disciples. 40. And he answered and said unto them: I say unto you: Where these shall hold their peace, the stones shall cry out. 41. And when he was come nigh, he looked upon the city, and wept over it. 42. And said, If thou knewest, thou wouldest consider in this thy time what is for thy peace. But now it is hid from thine eyes. 43. For the time shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall make a siege against thee, and thy children against thee, and shall besiege thee, and make thee afraid in every place. 44. And they shall drag thee, and shall not leave thee one stone upon another, because thou knewest not the time wherein thou wast afflicted. 45. And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought therein, 46. And said unto them: It is written: My house is a house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves. 47. And taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests, and the scribes, and the chief of the people, sought after him, that they might destroy him, 48. and found not how to do unto him: for all the people clave unto him, and heard him]. (Luke) Chapter 20 Christ's conversation of his person and office. Of the interest and resurrection of the dead. 1. And it came to pass one day, when he was teaching the people in the temple, and preaching the gospel, that the chief priests and scribes came unto him with the elders. 2. And they said unto him, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who gave thee authority? 3. And he answered and said unto them: I also will ask you one word; tell me: 4. the baptism of John, was it from heaven or from men? 5. And they reasoned with themselves, saying, Let us say from heaven, Why then did ye not believe him? 6. But if we say of men, all the people will stone us, because they insist that John is a prophet. 7. And they answered that they knew not whence she was. 8. And JEsus said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. 9. And he began to tell the people this parable: A man planted a vineyard, and put it out to the husbandmen, and went over the land for a good season. 10. And in his season he sent a servant unto the husbandmen, that they might give him of the fruit of the vineyard. And the husbandmen overthrew him, and sent him away empty. 11. And over this he sent another servant: and they also overthrew him, and mocked him, and sent him away empty. 12. And upon this he sent the third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. 13. Then said the lord of the vineyard: What shall I do? I will send my dear Son; perhaps when they see him they will shun him. 14. And when the husbandmen saw the son, they reasoned with themselves, saying: This is the heir; come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. 15. And they thrust him out of the vineyard, and slew him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? 16. And he shall come and kill these husbandmen, and shall pluck up his vineyard. And when they heard it, they said: Be it far from me! 17. And he looked upon them, and said, What then is this that is written, The stone which the builders rejected is become the corner stone? 18. Whosoever shall fall upon this stone shall be broken: but upon whomsoever it shall fall, it shall break him in pieces. 19. And the chief priests and scribes sought to lay hands on him at that hour, and were afraid of the people: for they heard that he had spoken this parable unto them. 20. And they laid hold on him, and sent out lurkers to stand as if they were pious, that they might catch him in speech, that they might deliver him up to the authority and power of the governor. 21. And they asked him, saying: Master, we know that thou speakest sincerely, and teachest, and regardest no man's reputation, but teachest the way of God aright. 22. Is it right that we should give the Emperor our laps or not? 23. And he perceived their deceit, and said unto them: Why tempt ye me? 24. Show me the penny; whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said: The emperor's. 25. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's. 26. And they could not reprove his word before the people, and marvelled at his answer, and held their peace. 27. Then came there unto him certain of the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him 28. And they said: Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man's brother die that hath a wife, and die heirless, his brother shall take the wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. 29. Now there were seven brethren. The first took a wife and died heirless. 30: And the other took the woman, and died also without eyes. 31. And the third took them. Likewise all the seven, and left no children, and died. 32. Last of all, after all, the woman also died. 33. Now in the resurrection, whose wife shall she be among them? For all seven have had her to wife. 34. And JEsus answered and said unto them: The children of this world free, and let themselves be free; 35. But they that shall be worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, shall neither go free, nor be given free. 36. For they cannot die henceforth: for they are like unto the angels, and the children of God, because they are the children of the resurrection. 37. And that the dead should rise, Moses also signified at the bush, when he called the LORD God of Abraham, and God of Isaac, and God of Jacob. 38. But God is not God of the dead, but of the living; for they all live unto him. 39. Then answered some of the scribes, and said: Master, thou hast spoken rightly. 40. And they were not to ask him any more questions. 41. And he said unto them: How say they that Christ is the Son of David? 42. And he himself, David, saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD hath said unto my LORD, Sit thou at my right hand, 43. Until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 44. David called him a lord: how then is he his son? 45. And when all the people were listening, he said to his disciples: 46. Beware of the scribes, which come in long robes, and love to be saluted in the market, and love to sit in the synagogues, and over the table. 47. They devour widows' houses, and make long prayers: they shall receive the more grievous damnation. (Luke) Chapter 21 Of the widows' tax, the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the world 1. And he looked up, and behold the rich men putting their offerings into the treasury. 2. And he saw also a poor widow, which put in two mites. 3. And he said, Verily I say unto you, This poor widow hath put in more than they all. 4. For all these out of their abundance have laid up for the sacrifice of God: but she out of her poverty hath laid up all the food which she had. 5. And when some said of the temple that it was adorned with fine stones and jewels, he said: 6. The time shall come, when of all that ye see there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be broken. 7. And they asked him, saying: Master, when shall this be? and what is the sign when this shall be? 8. And he said, Take heed, be not deceived. For many shall come in my name, saying that I am he, and: The time is at hand. Follow them not. 9. But when ye shall hear of wars and uprisings, be not dismayed. For these things must first come to pass: but the end is not yet at hand. 10. Then said he unto them: One nation shall rise above another, and one kingdom above another. 11. And there shall be great earthquakes to and fro, and grievous days, and pestilences. And there shall be terrors, and great signs from heaven. 12. But before all this they shall lay hands on you, and persecute you, and shall deliver you up into their synagogues and prisons, and shall bring you before kings and princes for my name's sake. 13. And it shall come to pass unto you for a testimony. 14. Take it to heart therefore, that ye be not anxious how ye shall answer. 15. For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which shall not speak against, nor resist all your adversaries. 16. And ye shall be delivered of parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and they shall kill some of you. 17. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. 18. And one hair of your head shall not perish. Nineteen: Take hold of your souls with patience! 20. And when ye shall see Jerusalem besieged with an army, then know that their desolation is come. 21. Then let him that is in Judea flee to the mountains; and let him that is in the midst of them go out: and let not him that is in the country come in. 22. For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. 23. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! For there shall be great distress upon the earth, and wrath upon this people. 24. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be carried away captive among all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. 25. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars: and upon the earth men shall be afraid, and shall tremble; and the sea and the waves of waters shall roar. 26. And men shall faint for fear, and for waiting of things to come upon the earth: for the powers of heaven also shall be shaken. 27. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28. But when these things begin to come to pass, look up, and lift up your heads, because your redemption draweth nigh. 29. And he spake unto them a parable: Behold the fig tree and all the trees! 30. When they now shoot forth, ye see it in them, and know that summer is now at hand. 31. Ye also, when ye see all these things, know that the kingdom of God is at hand. 32. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all be done. 33. and earth will pass away, but my words do not pass. 34. But take heed lest your hearts be troubled with eating and drinking, and with cares of food, and that day come upon you quickly; 35. For as a snare shall it come upon all them that dwell upon the earth. 36. Be ye therefore always valiant, and pray that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man]. 37. And he taught in the temple by day, and went out by night, and lodged in the mount of Olives by night. 38. And all the people rose up early to hear him in the temple. (Luke) Chapter 22 Judas, the traitor. Paschal Lamb and the Lord's Supper. The ambition of the disciples. Christ's suffering in the garden and before Caiaphas. Peter's fall from grace. 1. And the feast of sweet bread, which is called Easter, was at hand. 2. And the chief priests and scribes sought how to kill him, and feared the people. 3. And Satan was come into Judas, called Iscariot, which was of the number of the twelve. 4. And he went and spake unto the chief priests and unto the captains, how he would deliver him up unto them. 5. And they were glad, and vowed to give him money. 6. And he promised, and sought opportunity, that he might deliver him up without a tumult. 7. And now came the day of sweet bread, upon which the passover was to be offered. 8. And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go, prepare us the passover, that we may eat it. 9. And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare? 10. And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, a man shall meet you, bearing a pitcher of water: follow him into the house where he entereth in, 11. And say unto the master of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the inn wherein I may eat the passover with my disciples? 12. And he shall show you a great paved hall; there prepare it. 13. And they went and found as he had said unto them, and prepared the passover. 14. And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. 15. And he said unto them: I was heartily desirous to eat this passover with you before I suffer. 16. For I say unto you, that I will henceforth eat no more of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God. 17. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, saying, Take the same, and divide it among you. 18. For I say unto you: I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes. 19. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave to them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. 20. And likewise the cup after supper, saying, This is the cup, the new testament in my blood, which is poured out for you. 21. But, behold, the hand of my betrayer is with me over tables! 22. And the Son of man goeth according to the decree: but woe unto that same man by whom he is betrayed! 23. And they began to ask among themselves, which of them it was that would do this thing. 24. There was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. 25. And he said unto them: The worldly kings reign, and the mighty are called gracious lords. 26. And ye shall not be so: but the greatest among you shall be as the youngest, and the chiefest as a servant. 27. For which is the greatest, he that sitteth at meat, or he that ministereth? Is it not so, that he that sitteth at meat? But I am among you as a servant. 28. But ye are they which have persevered with me in my temptations. 29. And I will appoint unto you the kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me, 30. That ye may eat and drink above my table in my kingdom, and sit upon seats, and judge the twelve tribes of Israel:] 31. And the LORD said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. And if thou be converted in time to come, strengthen thy brethren. 33. And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee into prison and to death. 34. And he said, Peter, I tell thee, the cock shall not crow this day, till thou hast thrice denied that thou knowest me. 35. And he said unto them, As often as I have sent you without bag, and without purse, and without shoes, have ye ever lacked? They said: Never none. 36. Then said he unto them: But now, he that hath a bag, let him take it, and of the same also the bag: but he that hath not, let him sell his garment, and buy a sword. 37. For I say unto you, That which is written of me, He is numbered with the transgressors, must yet be finished. For that which is written of me hath an end. 38. And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them: It is enough. 39. And he went out according to his custom unto the mount of Olives. And his disciples followed him into the same place. 40. And when he was come thither, he said unto them: Pray, that ye enter not into temptation. 41. And he tore himself from them at the casting of a stone, and kneeled down, praying 42. And said, Father, if thou wilt, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. 43. And there appeared unto him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. 44. And it came to pass, that he wrestled with death, and prayed more earnestly. And his sweat was as drops of blood falling to the ground. came to his disciples and found them asleep with sadness. 46. And said unto them: Why sleep ye? Arise, and pray, that ye enter not into temptation. 47. And while he yet spake, behold, the multitude, and one of the twelve, called Judas, went before them, and drew nigh to JEsu to kiss him. 48. And JESUS said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss? 49. And when they that were about him saw what was to come, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword? 50. And one of them smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. 51. And JEsus answered and said, Let them be made so far off. And he touched his ear, and healed him. 22. And JEsus said unto the chief priests, and to the captains of the temple, and to the elders that were come upon him: Ye went out, as unto a murderer, with swords and with staves. 53. I have been daily with you in the temple, and ye have laid no hand upon me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness. 54. And they took him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest's house. And Peter followed afar off. 55. Then they kindled a fire in the midst of the palace, and sat down together: and Peter sat down among them. 56. And when a certain maid saw him sitting by the light, she looked straight upon him, and said unto him, This man also was with him. 57. And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not. 58. And about a little while another saw him, and said, Thou also art one. And Peter said, Man, I am not he. 59. And about an hour, another confirmed it, saying, Verily this man also was with him; for he is a Galilaean. 25. And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And straightway, while he yet spake, the cock crowed. 11. And the LORD turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, which he spake unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 22. And Peter went out, weeping bitterly. 33. But the men that kept JEsum mocked him, and smote him, 64. And they covered him, and smote him in the face, and asked him, saying: Prophesy, who is it that smote thee? 65. And many other blasphemies said they against him. 66. And when it was day, the elders of the people, the chief priests, and the scribes, gathered themselves together, and brought him up before their council. 67. And said: Art thou Christ? Tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye will not believe; 68. But if I ask, ye answer not, yet let me not go. 69. Therefore from henceforth shall the Son of man sit at the right hand of the power of God. 70. And they all said, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them: Ye say so, for I am he. 11. And they said: What need we any further testimony? We have heard it ourselves out of his mouth. (Luke) Chapter 23 Christ's suffering before Pilate, his crucifixion, death, and Funeral. 1. And the whole company arose, and brought him before Pilate. 2. And began to accuse him, saying: This one we find turning away the people, and forbidding to give the bosom to Caesar, saying that he is Christ a king. 3. And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou king of the Jews? And he answered him, and said, Thou sayest it. 4. Pilate said unto the chief priests and to the people, I find no cause in this man. 5. And they stopped, and said: He hath stirred up the people by teaching to and fro throughout all the land of Judaea, beginning at Galilee even unto this place. 6. And when Pilate heard Galilee, he asked if he were of Galilee, 7. And when he knew that he was under Herod's authority, he sent him to Herod, which in those days was also at Jerusalem. 8. And when Herod saw JEsum, he was very glad; for he would gladly have seen him long since: for he had heard much of him, and hoped to see a sign from him. 9. And he asked him many things; but he answered him nothing. 10. But the chief priests and scribes tarried, and accused him severely. 11. But Herod with his court despised and mocked him, and put white raiment upon him, and sent him again to Pilate. 12. And that day Pilate and Herod became friends together: for before they were enemies one to another. 13. And Pilate called together the chief priests, and the rulers, and the people. 14. And said unto them: Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that turneth away the people. And, behold, I have questioned him before you, and find none in the man of the things whereof ye accuse him. 15. Neither did Herod: for I sent you unto him, and, behold, nothing was brought upon him worthy of death. 16. Therefore will I chasten him, and let him go. 17. For he had to release unto them one according to the custom of the feast. 18. And the whole multitude cried out, saying, Away with this man, and deliver us Barabbas. 19. Who was cast into prison for a riot that was committed in the city, and for murder. 20. And Pilate called unto them again, and would have let JEsum go. 21. And they cried out, saying: Crucify, crucify him! 22. And he said unto them the third time: What evil hath this man done? I find no cause of death in him: therefore will I chasten him, and let him go. 23. And they lay before him with a great cry, demanding that he should be crucified. And the cry of them and of the chief priests increased. 24. And Pilate judged that their request was granted, 25. And let him go that was cast into prison for sedition and murder, whom they besought: but he delivered JEsum to their will. 26. And as they led him away, they took hold of one, Simon of Cyrene, which came out of the field, and laid the cross upon him, that he might bear it after Jesus. 27. And there followed him a great company of people and women, mourning and weeping over him. 28. And JEsus turned unto them, and said: Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. 29. For, behold, the time cometh, in the which it shall be said: Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that have not borne, and the breasts that have not suckled. 30. Then shall they begin to say unto the mountains, Fall on us; and unto the hills, Cover us: Cover us! 31. For this is done in the green wood, what shall be done in the dry? 32. And there were brought also two other malefactors, that they might be put away with him. 33. And when they were come to the place which is called the place of the skull, there they crucified him, and the transgressors with him, one on the right hand, and one on the left. 34. And Jesus said, Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do. And they parted his garments, and cast lots for them. 35. And the people stood and watched. And the rulers with them mocked him, saying: He hath helped others, let him help himself: for he is a Christian, the elect of God. 36. And the soldiers also mocked him, and came to him, and brought him vinegar. 37. And they said: If thou be king of the Jews, save thyself. 38. There was also written above it the superscription in Greek and Latin and Ebrew letters: This is the king of the Jews. 39. But the malefactor of one of them that were hanged blasphemed him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself, and us. 40. And the other answered and rebuked him, and said, And thou also art not afraid of God, who art in like condemnation? 41. And we are just in this: for we receive the worth of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing unadvisedly. 42. And said unto JEsu, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 43. And JESUS said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise. 44. And it was about the sixth hour. And there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. 45. And the sun departed out of his light, and the veil of the temple was rent in twain. 46. And JEsus cried with a loud voice, saying, Father, I commend my spirit into thy hands. And when he had said this, he passed away. 47. And when the centurion saw what was done, he praised God, and said, Verily this man hath been a righteous man. 48. And all the people that were present, when they saw what was done, smote their breasts, and turned again. 49. And all his kinsmen stood afar off, and the women that followed him out of Galilee, and saw all these things. 50. And, behold, a man named Joseph, an alderman, was a good and devout man; 51. Who had not consented to their counsel and trade; who was of Arimathea, the city of the Jews, who also waited for the kingdom of God: 52. Who went to Pilate, and asked for the body of JEsu. 53. And he took him down, and wrapped him in linen, and laid him in a hewn grave, wherein no man had ever lain. 54. And it was the preparation day, and the sabbath day began. 55. And the women which came with him out of Galilee followed, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. 56. And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. And for the sabbath day they kept silence according to the law. (Luke) Chapter 24 Christ's resurrection and ascension. 1. But on the sabbath day very early they came to the sepulchre, bearing the spices which they had prepared, and some with them. 2. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. 3. And they went in, and found not the body of HErm JEsu. 4. And when they were troubled, behold, there came unto them two men clothed in shining garments. 5. And they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth. And they said unto them: Why seek ye the living among the dead? 6. He is not here: he is risen. Remember how he told you while he was still in Galilee, 7. Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinners, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. 8. And they remembered his words. 9. And they departed again from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. 10. And there was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and others with them, which told these things unto the apostles. 11. And they interpreted their words as if they were fables, and believed them not. 12. And Peter arose, and ran unto the sepulchre, and stooped down, and saw the linen clothes lying by themselves, and departed; and he wondered how it was done. 13. And, behold, two of them went that same day unto a place sixty leagues from Jerusalem, whose name is Emmaus. 14. And they spake one to another of all these tales. 15. And it came to pass, as they thus spake and consulted one another, that JEsus drew nigh unto them, and walked with them. 16. But their eyes were kept from knowing him. 17. And he said unto them: What manner of words are these which ye traffick among yourselves in the way, and are grieved? 18. Then answered one named Cleophas, and said unto him, Art thou alone among the strangers that are at Jerusalem, that knowest not what is done in these days within? 19. And he said unto them: Which? And they said unto him, That of JEsu of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people; 20. As our chief priests and our rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified. 21. And we hoped that he would redeem Israel: and this day is the third day of all this, that it is come to pass. 22. And some of our wives, which were early at the sepulchre, have frightened us, 23. Not having found his body, come and say they have seen a vision of angels, which say he liveth. 24. And some of us went unto the sepulchre, and found it so, as the women said; but they found him not. 25. And he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26. Did not Christ suffer these things, and enter into his glory? 27. And began from Moses and all the prophets, and expounded unto them all the scriptures which were spoken by him. 28. And they came nigh unto the place where they went. And he stood as though he would go on. 29. And they compelled him, saying: Abide with us: for it will be evening, and the day is come. And he went in to abide with them. 30. And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave to them. 31. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him. And he disappeared before them. 32. And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, when he spake unto us in the way, when he opened unto us the scriptures? 33. And they arose at that hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, 34. Which said: The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared unto Simon. 35. And they told them the things that were done in the way, and how he was known of them in the day that he brake bread]. 36. And as they spake of it, he himself, Jesus, stood in the midst of them, and said unto them: Peace be unto you! 37. And they were afraid, and were astonished, and thought they saw a spirit. 38. And he said unto them: Why are ye so terrified, and why do such thoughts come into your hearts? 39. Behold my hands and my feet; it is I myself: feel me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see that I have. 40. And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41. And when they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he saith unto them: Have ye here anything to eat? 42. And they set before him a piece of broiled fish and honeycomb. 43. And he took it, and did eat before them. 44. And he said unto them: These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you: for all things must be fulfilled which are written of me in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms. 45. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scripture. 46. And said unto them: Thus it is written, and thus Christ must suffer, and rise from the dead the third day. 47. and preach repentance and remission of sins in his name among all nations, and lift up Jerusalem]. 48. But ye are witnesses of all these things. 49. And, behold, I will send upon you the promise of my Father. And ye shall dwell in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be clothed with power from on high. 50. And he led them out to Bethany, and lifted up his hands, and blessed them. 51. And it came to pass, when he had blessed them, that he departed from them, and ascended into heaven. 52. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53. And were in the temple all the way, praising and glorifying God. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] Gospel of John ^ Chapter 1 Of Christ's person and office Of Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael, his disciples. 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD, and GOD was the Word. 2. The same was in the beginning with God. 3. All things are made by them; and without them is not any thing made that is made. 4. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5. And the light shineth in the darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not. 6. There was a man sent of God, whose name was John. 7. The same came for a testimony, that he might bear witness of the light, that they all might believe through him. 8. He was not the light, but that he should bear witness of the light. 9. that was the true light which enlightens all men who come into this world. 10. It was in the world, and the world was made by it, and the world knew it not. 11. He came into his own, and his own received him not. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the children of God, who believe on his name. 13. Which are born, not of the blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, a glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth]. 15. John beareth witness of him, and crieth out, saying, This was he of whom I said, After me shall come he that was before me: for he was before me. 16. And of his fulness have we all taken grace for grace. 17. For the law was given by Moses: but grace and truth were given by Jesus Christ. 18. No one has ever seen God. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared it unto us. 19. And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem, to ask him, Who art thou? 20. And he confessed, and denied not: and he confessed: I am not Christ. 21. And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elijah? And he said: I am not. Art thou a prophet? And he answered, No. 22. And they said unto him, What art thou then? that we may give answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? 23. And he said: I am a voice of a preacher in the wilderness: Direct the way of the LORD! as the prophet Isaiah said. 24. And they that were sent were of the Pharisees. 25. And they asked him, saying unto him, Why baptizest thou then, seeing thou art not Christ, nor Elias, nor a prophet? 26. John answered them, and said: I baptize with water: but he is come into the midst of you, whom ye know not. 27. He that shall come after me, which was before me, that I am not worthy to loose his shoe laces. 28. This was done at Bethabara, on the other side Jordan, when John was baptizing]. 29. And the next day John saw Jesus coming to him, and saying, Behold, this is the Lamb of God, which bare the sin of the world. 30. This is he of whom I said: After me cometh a man that was before me: for he was before me. 31. And I knew him not; but that he might be made manifest in Israel, therefore am I come to baptize with water. 32. And John bare witness, saying: I saw the Spirit descend like a dove from heaven, and remain upon him. 33. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining upon him, the same is he that baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. 34. And I saw, and bare witness that this is the Son of God. 35. And the next day John stood again with two of his disciples. 36. And when he saw JEsum walking, he said, Behold, this is the Lamb of God! 37. And two of his disciples heard him speak, and followed JEsu? 38. And JEsus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them: What seek ye? And they said unto him, Rabbi (that is interpreted, Master), where art thou to the inn? 39. And he said unto them: Come and see. And they came and saw it, and abode with him that day. And it was about the tenth hour. 40. One of the two that heard of John, and followed JEsu, was Andrew the brother of Simon Peter. 41. And he found his brother Simon first, and said unto him, We have found the Messiah, which is interpreted, The Anointed. 42. And brought him unto JEsu. And when JEsus saw him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jonas: thou shalt be called Cephas. 43. And the next day Jesus was going again into Galilee, and finds Philip, and says unto him, Follow me. 44. And Philip was of Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. 45. Philip finding Nathanael saith unto him, We have found him of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, JEsum the son of Joseph, of Nazareth. 46. And Nathanael said unto him, What good thing can come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see. 47. Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold a righteous Israelite, in whom is no deceit. 48. Nathanael saith unto him, How knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. 49. And Nathanael answered and said unto him, Rabbi, thou art the son of God, thou art the king of Israel. 50. And JEsus answered and said unto him, Thou hast believed, because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree: thou shalt see greater things than these. 51. And saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, From henceforth ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. (John) Chapter 2 Of the wedding at Cana and the cleansing of the temple. ) 1. And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of JEsu was there. 2. And JEsus and his disciples were also bidden to the marriage. 3. And when there was no wine, the mother of JEsu saith unto him, They have no wine. 4. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? My hour is not yet come. 5. His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it. 6. And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the Jews' cleansing, and two or three measures went into each. 7. Jesus saith unto them: Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them to the top. 8. And he saith unto them, Pour out now, and bring it unto the master of the feast. And they brought it. 9. And when the master of the feast had tasted the wine that was water, and knew not whence it came (but the servants knew, who had drawn the water), the master of the feast called the bridegroom, saying 10. And saith unto him, Every man giveth good wine at the first, and when they are drunken, then the less: thou hast kept the good wine until now. 11. This is the first sign that JEsus did, which was in Cana of Galilee, manifesting his glory. And his disciples believed on him]. 12. And afterward he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples, and abode not long there. 13. And the Jews' feast was at hand. And JEsus went up to Jerusalem 14. And found them sitting in the temple hawking oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers. 15. And he made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and spilled the money of the changers, and overturned the tables. 16. And he said unto them that sold the doves, Take this hence, and make not my father's house a house of sale. 17. And his disciples remembered that it is written, Zeal for thine house hath eaten me up. 18. And the Jews answered and said unto him, What sign showest thou unto us, that thou mayest do this thing? 19. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Break down this temple, and the third day I will raise it up. 20. And the Jews said, This temple was built in forty and six years, and thou wilt build it in three days? 21. And he spake of the temple of his body. 22. And when he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had spoken these things, and believed the scripture, and the words which Jesus spake. 23. And when he was in Jerusalem at the feast of the passover, many believed on his name, because they saw the signs which he did. 24. But JEsus trusted not in them: for he knew them all. 25. And needed not that any should bear witness of man: for he knew well what was in man. (John) Chapter 3 Conversation of Christ with Nicodemus about the way to eternal life. John testifies of Christ. 1. Now there was a man among the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a chief of the Jews. 2. Who came to JEsu by night, and said unto him, Master, we know that thou art a teacher come from GOD: for no man can do the signs which thou doest, except GOD be with him. 3. And JEsus answered and said unto him: Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he also again go into his mother's womb, and be born? 5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7. Marvel not that I said unto thee: Ye must be born again. 8. The wind bloweth whithersoever it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof; but knowest not whence it cometh, nor whither it goeth. So is every one that is born of the Spirit. 9. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? 10. JEsus answered and said unto him: Are you a master in Israel and don't know it? 11. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, we speak that which we know, and testify that which we have seen; and ye receive not our testimony. 12. If I tell you about earthly things, how would you believe if I told you about heavenly things? 13. And no man goeth up to heaven, but he that descended from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. 14. And as Moses lifted up a serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, 15. That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life]. 16. God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17. For God sent not his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him 18. Is not judged; but he that believeth not is already judged, because he believeth not on the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19. Now this is the judgment, that the light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light; because their works were evil. 20. He that doeth evil hateth the light, and cometh not to the light, lest his works should be punished. 21. But he that doeth the truth cometh to the light, that his works may be made manifest: for they are done in God]. 22. After these things came JEsus and his disciples into the land of Judaea, and had there his being with them, baptizing. 23. And John also baptized at Enon, which is nigh unto Salim: for there was much water there. And they came thither, and were baptized. 24. For John was not yet laid in prison. 25. Then a question arose among the disciples of John, and among the Jews, concerning the cleansing. 26. And they came to John, and said unto him, Master, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, of whom thou testifiedst, behold, he baptizeth, and every man cometh to him. 27. John answered and said, A man can take nothing, except it be given him from heaven. 28. Ye yourselves are my witnesses, that I said I was not Christ, but sent before him. 29. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the bridegroom's friend standeth and hearkeneth unto him, and rejoiceth greatly at the bridegroom's voice. My joy is now fulfilled. 30. He must grow, but I must decrease. 31. He that cometh from above is above all. He that is of the earth is of the earth, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all 32.. And he beareth witness of those things which he hath seen and heard; and his testimony receiveth no man. 33. But he that receiveth it sealeth it, that GOD is true. 34. For whomsoever God hath sent, he speaketh the word of God; for God does not give the Spirit according to measure. 35. The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. 36. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John) Chapter 4 Conversion of the Samaritan woman. Recovery of the son of the royal. 1. When therefore the LORD knew that the Pharisees were come before, how that Jesus made and baptized disciples more than John 2. (although JEsus himself did not baptize, but his disciples), 3. He left the land of Judea and went back to Galilee. 4. But he had to pass through Samaria. 5. And he came to a city of Samaria, which is called Shechar, near unto the little village which Jacob gave to Joseph his son. 6. And there was Jacob's well. And when Jesus was weary with his journey, he sat down upon the well: and it was about the sixth hour. 7. Then cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8. For his disciples had gone into the city to buy meat. 9. Then saith the Samaritan woman unto him, How askest thou of me to drink, seeing thou art a Jew, and I a Samaritan woman? (For the Jews have no fellowship with the Samaritans.) 10. And JESUS answering said unto her, If thou knowest the gift of GOD, and who he is that saith unto thee, Give me to drink, ask of him, and he will give thee living water. 11. The woman saith unto him, Lord, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: whence then hast thou living water? 12. Art thou more than our father Jacob, which gave us this well, and he drank thereof, and his children, and his cattle? 13. And JEsus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14. But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst: but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. 15. The woman saith unto him, Lord, give me the same water, that I thirst not, that I come not to draw. 16. And JEsus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither. 17. And the woman answered and said unto him, I have no husband. Jesus saith unto her, Thou hast said rightly, I have no husband. 18. Five husbands thou hast had, and he whom thou hast now is not thy husband. You said it right. 19. And the woman saith unto him, Lord, I see that thou art a prophet. 20. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain, and ye say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. 21. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the time cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22. Ye know not what ye worship: but we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23. But the time cometh, and is now, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father will have them also that worship him so. 24. God is a spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. 25. And the woman saith unto him, I know that the Messiah cometh, which is called Christ. When he cometh, he shall tell us all things. 26. Jesus saith unto her: I am he that speaketh unto thee. 27. And upon him came his disciples, and they marvelled that he spake unto the woman? But no man said, What askest thou? or, What speakest thou unto her? 28. And the woman left her pitcher, and went into the city, and spake unto the people: 29. Come, behold a man, which hath told me all things that I have done, whether he be not Christ. 30. And they went out of the city, and came unto him. 31. And meanwhile the disciples exhorted him, saying: Rabbi, eat! 32. But he said to them: I have food to eat, but you do not know it. 33. Then said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him meat? 34. Jesus saith unto them: My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. 35. Say ye not yourselves, There are yet four months, and the harvest shall come? Behold, I say unto you: Lift up your eyes, and look into the field: for it is white already for harvest; 36. And he that reapeth receiveth reward, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. 37. For here is the saying true, This man soweth, and that man reapeth. 38. I have sent you to cut that which ye have not wrought: others have wrought, and ye are come into their work. 39. And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him because of the woman's words, which testified, saying, He hath told me all that I have done. 40. And when the Samaritans came unto him, they besought him to tarry with them. And he abode there two days. 41. And many more believed because of his word. 42. And they said unto the woman: We believe not henceforth because of thy saying: for we have heard and known that this is truly Christ, the Saviour of the world. 43. And after two days he departed thence, and went into Galilee. 44. For he himself, JESUS, bare witness that a prophet is of no account at home. 45. And when he was come into Galilee, the Galilaeans received him, which had seen all that he did in Jerusalem at the feast. For they also were come to the feast. 46. And JEsus came again to Cana of Galilee, having made the water wine. 47. And there was a certain king whose son was sick at Capernaum. And when he heard that Jesus was come out of Judea of Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down and heal his son: for he was sick unto death. 48. And JESUS said unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe. 49. And the king said unto him, Lord, come down before my child dieth. 55. And JEsus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that JEsus spake unto him, and went. 51. And as he went down, his servants met him, and told him, saying: Thy child liveth. 22. And he inquired of them the hour when he was better. And they said unto him, Yesterday about the seventh hour. The fever left him. 53. And the father perceived that it was about the hour in the which Jesus had said unto him, Thy son liveth. And he believed with all his house. 54. Now this is the other sign which JEsus did, when he came out of Judaea into Galilee]. (John) Chapter 5 Christ's protective speech about His miraculous work on the man who had been sick for thirty-eight years. 1. After this there was a feast of the Jews, and JEsus went up to Jerusalem. 2. Now there is a pool in Jerusalem by the sheepcote, which is called Bethesda in the Ezraic language, and hath five halls, 3. in which lay many sick, blind, lame, arid; who waited when the waters moved. 4. For an angel came down at his season into the pool, and troubled the waters. And he that went in first, after the water was moved, was healed of every disease that was in him. 5. And there was a man there that was sick thirty and eight years. 6. And when JE saw him lying, and perceived that he had lain so long, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be healed? 7. And the sick man said unto him, Lord, I have no man, when the waters are moved, to let me into the pool: and when I come, another shall go in before me. 8. And JEsus saith unto him, Arise, take up thy bed, and walk. 9. And immediately the man was healed, and took up his bed, and went his way. And it was the sabbath day the same day. 10. Then said the Jews unto him that was healed: It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to bear the bed. 11. And he answered them: He that made me whole said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk. 12. And they said unto him, Who is this man that said unto thee? Take up thy bed, and go thy way? 13. And he that was healed knew not who he was: for Jesus was departed, because there was so much people in the place. 14. And afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing befall thee. 15. And the man went and told the Jews, saying, It is JEsus which hath made him whole. 16. Therefore the Jews persecuted JEsum, and sought to kill him, because he had done this thing on the sabbath day. 17. And Jesus answered them: My Father worketh hitherto, and I also work. 18. Therefore the Jews sought after him much more to kill him, that he should not only break the sabbath, but also say that GOD was his father, and make himself equal with GOD. 19. Then answered JEsus, and said unto them: Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son. 20. But the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that he doeth, and will shew him greater works, that ye may marvel. 21. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them: so also the Son quickeneth whom he will. 22. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath given all judgment unto the Son, 23. That they all may honor the Son, as they honor the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which sent him. 24. Verily, verily, I say unto you: He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. 25. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, that the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God; and they that hear shall live. 26. For as the Father hath life in himself, even so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself. 27. And hath given him power to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28. Marvel not at this: for the hour cometh, in the which all they that are in the graves shall hear his voice. 29. And they shall come forth that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; but they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of judgment. 30. I can do nothing of myself. As I hear, so I judge, and my judgment is right; for I seek not my will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. 31. If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. 32. Another is he that testifieth of me: and I know that the testimony which he testifieth of me is true. 33. Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness of the truth. 34. But I take not witness from men, but these things say I, that ye may be saved. 35. He was a burning and a shining light: but ye would be glad a little while of his light. 36. But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me that the Father hath sent me. 37. and the Father who sent me, the same hath begotten of me. Ye have never heard his voice, nor seen his form. 38. And his word ye have not abiding in you: for ye believe not him whom he hath sent. 39. Search the scriptures: for ye think that therein ye have eternal life: and it is they which testify of me. 40. And ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life. 41. I do not take honor from men. 42.. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. 43. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not. If another shall come in his own name, him will ye receive. 44. How can you believe, you who take honor from one another? And the glory that is of God alone ye seek not. 45. Think not that I will accuse you before the Father. There is one that accuseth you, Moses, in whom ye hope. 46. If ye believed Moses, ye believed me also: for he wrote of me. 47. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words? (John) Chapter 6 Christ's miraculous feeding. Walk on the sea and preaching of the spiritual enjoyment of his flesh and blood. 1. After this JEsus departed over the sea at the city of Tiberias in Galilee. 2. And much people followed him, because they saw the miracles which he did on them that were sick. 3. And JEsus went up into a mountain, and sat there with his disciples. 4. And it was near the feast of Easter, the feast of the Jews. 5. Then lifted up Jesus' eyes, and beholding a great multitude coming unto him, he saith unto Philip, Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat? 6. (But this he said to tempt him: for he knew well what he would do.) 7. Philip answered him, For two hundred penceworth of bread there is not enough among them, that every one of them may take a little. 8. Then saith one of his disciples unto him, Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter: 9. There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two fishes: but what is that among so many? 10. And Jesus said, Make the people lie down. And there was much grass in the place. And about five thousand men encamped there. 11. And Jesus took the loaves, and gave thanks, and gave them to the disciples; and the disciples to them that lay down; and likewise of the fishes, as much as he would. 12. And when they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing perish. 13. And they gathered, and filled twelve baskets with fragments of the five barley loaves which remained for them that were fed. 14. When therefore men saw the sign which Jesus did, they said: Truly this is the prophet who is to come into the world! 15. When therefore Jesus perceived that they would come and take him, that they might make him king, he departed again into the mountain by himself]. 16. And when even was come, the disciples went down unto the sea. 17. And they entered into the ship, and came over the sea to Capernaum. And it was already dark, and Jesus was not come unto them. 18. And the sea rose up with a great wind. 19. And when they had rowed about twenty and five or thirty furlongs, they saw Jesus walking on the sea, and coming nigh unto the ship; and they were afraid. 20. And he said unto them: It is I; do not be afraid. 21. And they would have taken him into the ship: and straightway the ship was at the land whither they went. 22: And the next day the people which stood on this side the sea saw that there was no other ship there but the one into which his disciples were entered, and that Jesus was not entered into the ship with his disciples, but that his disciples only were departed. 23. And there came other ships from Tiberias nigh unto the place where they had eaten bread, through the thanksgiving of the LORD. 24. When therefore the people saw that JEsus was not there, neither his disciples, they also entered into the ships, and came to Capernaum, seeking JEsus. 25. And when they found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? 26. Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me not because ye have seen signs, but because ye have eaten of the bread, and are filled. 27. Work out meat, not which perisheth, but which endureth unto life eternal, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. 28. And they said unto him, What shall we do, that we may work the works of God? 29. And JEsus answered and said unto them: This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. 30. And they said unto him, What sign doest thou, that we may see and believe thee? What doest thou work? 31. Our fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. 32. Then said JEsus unto them: Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you true bread from heaven. 33. For this is the bread of God, which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. 34. And they said unto him, Lord, give us bread like this continually. 35. And Jesus said unto them: I am the bread of life. He that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. 36. But I have told you, that ye have seen me, and yet believe not. 37. All that my Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will not cast out. 38. For I am come down from heaven, not to do my will, but that of him that sent me. 39. But this is the will of the Father which hath sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he hath given me, but that I should raise it up at the last day. 40. And this is the will of him that sent me, that whosoever seeth the Son, and believeth on him, should have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 41. And the Jews murmured because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven, 42. And they said: Is not this JEsus the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How then saith he: I am come down from heaven? 43. And JEsus answered and said unto them: Murmur not among yourselves. 44. No man can come unto me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. 45. It is written in the prophets: They shall all be taught of God. He therefore that heareth it of the Father, and learneth it, cometh unto me. 46. Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he that is of the Father, he hath seen the Father. 47. Verily, verily, I say unto you: He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. 48. I am the bread of life. 49. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and died. 50. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that whosoever eateth thereof should not die. 51. I am the living bread, come from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever. And the bread which I shall give is my flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world. 22. And the men that were bidden quarreled among themselves, saying: How can this man give us his flesh to eat? 53. And JEsus said unto them: Verily, verily, I say unto you: If ye eat not the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55. For my flesh is meat, and my blood is drink. 56. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, abideth in me, and I in him. 57. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live because of the Father: so he that eateth me shall live also because of me. 58. This is the bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and die. He that eateth this bread shall live for ever. 59. These things said he in the synagogue, when he taught in Capernaum. 60. Many therefore of his disciples, when they heard it, said: This is a hard saying, who can hear it? 61. And when JEsus perceived in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he saith unto them: Doth this offend you? 62. How then, when ye shall see the Son of man ascending thither, where he was before? 63. It is the Spirit that quickeneth: the flesh is of no profit. The words that I speak are spirit, and are life. 64. But there be some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning which believed not, and which would betray him. 65. And he said, Therefore I said unto you, No man can come unto me, except it be given him of my Father. 66. From that time his disciples went much behind him, and walked no more with him. 67. Then said JEsus unto the twelve: Will ye also go away? 68. Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, whither shall we go? Thou hast words of eternal life; 69. And we have believed and known that thou art Christ, the Son of the living God. 70. Jesus answered him, Did I not mention you twelve? and one of you is a devil. 71. And he spake of Judas the son of Simon, Iscariot; who afterward betrayed him, and was one of the twelve. (John) Chapter 7 Christ's sermons in the temple. 1. After these things Jesus went about in Galilee: for he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought his life. 2. And the feast of the Jews was nigh, the feast of leaves. 3. Then said his brethren unto him, Arise thou from thence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. 4. No man doeth a thing in secret, and yet desireth to be made manifest freely. If thou do these things, manifest thyself before the world. 5. For neither did his brethren believe on him. 6. Then saith JEsus unto them: My time is not yet here; but your time is always. 7. The world cannot hate you; but hate me: for I bear witness of it, that the works thereof are evil. 8. Go ye up unto this feast. I will not yet go up unto this feast: for my time is not yet fulfilled. 9. And when he had said these things unto them, he abode in Galilee. 10. And when his brethren were gone up, he also went up to the feast, not openly, but secretly. 11. And the Jews sought him at the feast, and said: Where is he? 12. And there was a great murmuring of him among the people. Some said: He is righteous. But the rest said: No, but he seduces the people. 13. And no man spake freely of him for the fear of the Jews. 14. But in the midst of the feast JEsus went up into the temple, and taught. 15. And the Jews marvelled, and said: How can this man know the scriptures, seeing he hath not learned them? 16. JEsus answered them, and said: My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17. If any man will do the will of God, he shall know whether this doctrine be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh the glory of him that sent him is true, and there is no unrighteousness in him. 19. Did not Moses give you the law? And there is none among you that doeth the law. Why seek ye to kill me? 20. And the people answered and said, Thou hast the devil; who seeketh to kill thee? 21. Jesus answered and said, I have done a certain work, and ye all marvel at it. 22. Moses therefore gave you circumcision, not that it came of Moses, but that it came of the fathers: neither circumcise ye a man on the sabbath day. 23. If a man receive circumcision on the sabbath day, that the law of Moses be not broken, are ye angry with me, because I have made all man whole on the sabbath day? 24. Judge not according to reputation, but judge righteously. 25. Then said some of Jerusalem, Is not this he whom they sought to kill? 26. And, behold, he speaketh freely, and they say nothing unto him. Do our rulers then know for certain that he is Christ? 27. But we know from whence this is: but when Christ shall come, no man shall know from whence he is. 28. Then cried JEsus in the temple, teaching, and saying, Ye know me, and from whence I am: and of myself I am not come, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. 29. But I know him; for I am of him, and he hath sent me. 30. And they sought to lay hold on him. But no one laid a hand on him, for his hour had not yet come. 31. But many of the people believed on him, and said: When Christ shall come, will he also do more signs than this man do? 32. And it came to pass before the Pharisees, that the people murmured these things concerning him. Then the Pharisees and chief priests sent out servants to seize him. 33. Then said JEsus unto them: I am with you yet a little while, and then I go unto him that sent me. 34. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, ye cannot come. 35. And the Jews said one to another, Whither will this man go, that we shall not find him? Will he go among the Greeks, which are scattered abroad, and teach the Greeks? 36. What manner of speech is this, that he saith, Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, ye cannot come? Where I am, there ye cannot come? 37. But on the last day of the feast, which was most glorious, JESUS stood up, and said, Whosoever thirsteth, let him come unto me, and drink. 38. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his body shall flow rivers of living water. 39. And this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believed on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet, because JEsus was not yet glorified. 40. And many of the people, when they heard this saying, said: This is a true prophet. 41. The others said: He is Christ. And some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee? 42. Doth not the scripture say, Of the seed of David, and out of the place of Bethlehem, where David was, should Christ come? 43. So there was dissension among the people against him. 44. And some sought to lay hold on him, but no man laid a hand on him. 45. And the servants came to the chief priests and Pharisees. And they said unto them: Why have ye not brought him? 46. The servants answered: No man ever spoke like this man. 47. And the Pharisees answered them, Are ye also deceived? 48. Doth any ruler or Pharisee believe in him? 49. But the people that know not the law are accursed. 50. Nicodemus saith unto them, which came to him by night, which was one of them: 11. Doth our law judge a man before he is heard, and before he knoweth what he doeth? 22. And they answered and said unto him, Art thou also a Galilaean? Search, and, behold, there ariseth not a prophet out of Galilee. 53. And every man went home. (John) Chapter 8 Of an adulteress, Christ's person and office, His disciples' attributes. 1. And JEsus went unto the mount of Olives. 2. And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him. And he sat down, and taught them. 3. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman in adultery, and set her in the midst of them. 4. And said unto him, Master, this woman is caught in the very act of adultery. 5. But Moses commanded us in the law to stone such as these: what sayest thou? 6. And this they said to tempt him, that they might have a cause against him. But Jesus stooped down, and wrote with his finger on the ground. 7. When therefore they stopped to ask him, he arose, and said unto them: He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone at her. 8. And stooping down again, he wrote upon the ground. 9. And when they heard it, they went out, persuaded by their consciences, one by one, from the elders even to the least. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10. And JEsus arose, and seeing no man but the woman, saith unto her, Woman, where are thy accusers? hath no man condemned thee? 11. And she said, Lord, no man. And Jesus said, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. 12. Then spake JEsus unto them again, saying: I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. 13. Then said the Pharisees unto him, Thou bearest witness of thyself; thy witness is not true. 14. Jesus answered and said unto them, If I bear witness of myself, my witness is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go: but ye know not whence I come, and whither I go. 15. Ye judge according to the flesh; I judge no man. 16. But if I judge, my judgment is right: for I am not alone, but I and the Father which sent me. 17. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. 18. I am he that testifieth of myself: and the Father which sent me testifieth of me also. 19. And they said unto him, Where is thy father? JEsus answered: Ye know neither me, nor my Father: if ye knew me, ye knew my Father also. 20. These words spake JEsus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple; and no man laid hold on him: for his hour was not yet come. 21. Then said JEsus unto them again: I go away, and ye shall seek me, and die in your sins: whither I go ye cannot come. 22: Then said the Jews, Will he then kill himself, saying, Whither I go, ye cannot come? 23. And he said unto them: Ye are from beneath, I am from above; ye are of this world, I am not of this world. 24. Thus I said unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. 25. And they said unto him, Who art thou? And JEsus said unto them: First, he that speaketh unto you. 26. I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true, and those things which I have heard of him I speak before the world. 27. But they heard not that he told them of the father. 28. Then said JEsus unto them: When ye shall exalt the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, so speak I. 29. And he that sent me is with me. The Father leaves me not alone: for I do always those things that please him. 30. When he spake these things, many believed on him. 31. Then said JESUS unto the Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my sayings, ye are my disciples indeed. 32. And ye shall know the truth; and the truth shall make you free. 33. And they said unto him, We are Abraham's seed, and have never been any man's servants: how sayest thou then? Ye shall go free? 34. JEsus answered them, and said: Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35. But the servant abideth not in the house for ever: the son abideth for ever. 36. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. 37. I know that ye are Abraham's seed, but ye seek to kill me: for my words are not found among you. 38. I speak that which I have seen of my Father: so do ye that which ye have seen of your Father. 39. And they answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Saith JEsus unto them: If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do Abraham's works. 40. But now ye seek to kill me, such a man as I have told you the truth, which I have heard of GOD; which Abraham did not do. 41. Ye do the works of your father. Then said they unto him, We are not born out of wedlock; we have one Father, GOD. 42. And JEsus said unto them: If GOD were your Father, ye would love me: for I am come forth, and am come from GOD: for I am not come of myself, but he hath sent me. 43. Why then know ye not my language? for ye cannot hear my word. 44. Ye are of the father the devil, and after your father's pleasure will ye do. The same is a murderer from the beginning, and is not established in the truth; for the truth is not in him. When he speaketh lies, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of them. 45. But I, because I speak the truth, believe ye me not. 46. Which of you can accuse me of sin? But if I tell you the truth, why do you not believe me? 47. He who is of God hears the word of God. Therefore you do not hear, for you are not of God. 48. And the Jews answered and said unto him, Say we not rightly that thou art a Samaritan, and hast the devil. 49. JEsus answered: I have no devil, but I honour my Father, and ye dishonour me. 50. I seek not mine own glory: but there is one that seeketh it, and judgeth it. 51. Verily, verily, I say unto you, If any man keep my word, he shall not see death for ever. 22. And the Jews said unto him, Now we know that thou hast the devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If any man keep my word, he shall not taste death for ever. 53. Art thou more than our father Abraham, which died? And the prophets are dead. What do you make of yourself? 54. Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing. But it is my Father that honoureth me, of whom ye say that he is your God, 55. and know him not. But I know him. And if I should say, I know him not, I should be a liar, as ye are. But I know him, and keep his word. 56. Abraham your father was glad that he should see my day: and he saw it, and rejoiced. 57. And the Jews said unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast seen Abraham? 58. And Jesus said unto them: Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. 29. Then they heaped up stones to cast at him. But JEsus hid himself, and went out unto the temple, passing through the midst of them]. (John) Chapter 9 He that is born blind is made sane by Christ. 1. And JEsus passed by, and saw one that was born blind. 2. And his disciples asked him, saying: Master, who sinned, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? 3. Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God might be made manifest in him. 4. I must work the works of him that sent me while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. 5. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world. 6. And when he had said these things, he spit upon the ground, and made a dung of the spittle, and put the dung upon the eyes of the blind. 7. And said unto him, Go unto the pool of Siloam, and wash. So he went and washed, and came to see. 8. The neighbours, and they that had seen him before, that he was a beggar, said: Is not this he that sat begging? 9. Some said: It is he: but some said, He is like him. But he himself said: It is I. 10. And they said unto him, How are thine eyes opened? 11. And he answered and said, The man whose name is JEsus made a dung, and put it upon mine eyes, and said, Go unto the pool of Siloam, and wash. And I went and washed, and received my sight. 12. And they said unto him, Where is he? He said: I know not. 13. And they brought him unto the Pharisees, who was blind. 14. (Now it was the sabbath day, when JEsus made the dung, and opened his eyes.) 15. Then asked they him again, even the Pharisees, how he had received his sight. And he said unto them: He put dung on my eyes, and I washed, and now I see. 16. Then said some of the Pharisees, Man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath. But the others said: How can a sinful man do such signs? And there was dissension among them. 17. And they said again unto the blind man: What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? And he said, He is a prophet. - 18. The Jews believed not of him that he had been blind, and had received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight, 19. And they asked, saying: Is this your son, whom ye say was born blind? How then is he that hath sight? 20. And his parents answered them, and said: We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind. 21. Now how he hath sight, we know not; neither know we who hath opened his eyes. He is old enough, ask him; let him speak for himself. 22. These things said his parents: for they were afraid of the Jews. For the Jews were already united, if any man confessed him to be a Christian, that he should be put under ban. 23. Therefore said his parents, He is old enough; ask him. 24. Then called they the second time the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give glory to God. We know that this man is a sinner. 25. And he answered and said: Is he a sinner, I know not: one thing I know, that I was blind, and now I see. 26. And they said unto him again, What did he unto thee? How did he open thine eyes? 27. And he answered them: I have told you now; have ye not heard? Why do you want to hear it again? will ye also become his disciples? 28. And they cursed him, and said: Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples. 29. We know that God spake unto Moses: but this we know not from whence he is. 30. And the man answered and said unto them: This is a strange thing, that ye know not whence he is: and he hath opened mine eyes. 31. Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man fear God, and do his will, he heareth him. 32. From the beginning of the world it hath not been heard that any man hath opened the eyes of a born blind man. 33. If this one were not from GOD, he could do nothing. 34. And they answered and said unto him, Thou art all born in sins, and teachest us? And cast him out. 35. And it came to pass before JEsum, that they had cast him out. And when he found him, he said unto him, Believest thou on the Son of God? 36. And he answered and said, Lord, which is he, that I may believe on him? 37. And JEsus said unto him, Thou hast seen him, and he that speaketh with thee is he. 38. And he said, Lord, I believe; and worshipped him. 39. And Jesus said: I am come to judgment into this world, that they which see not might see, and they which see might be blind. 40. And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these things, and said unto him, Are we blind also? - 41. And Jesus said unto them: If ye were blind, ye would have no sin: but now ye say, We have sight; abide in your sin. (John) Chapter 10 Of Christ the good shepherd and his sheep. Item, whether he is the Messiah. 1. Verily, verily, I say unto you: He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but goeth in by other means, the same is a thief and a murderer. 2. But he that goeth in at the door is a shepherd of the sheep. 3. To him the doorkeeper openeth, and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4. And when he hath let his sheep go, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. 5. But they follow not a stranger, but flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. 6. This saying said JEsus unto them: but they heard not what it was that he spake unto them. 7. Then said JEsus unto them again: Verily, verily, I say unto you: I am the door to the sheep. 8. All that came before me were thieves and murderers, but the sheep hearkened not unto them. 9. I am the door: if any man enter in by me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10. A thief cometh not, but to steal, and to choke, and to kill. 11. I am come that they may have life and full sufficiency]. 12. I am a good shepherd: a good shepherd layeth down his life for the sheep. But a hireling that is not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth the sheep, and scattereth them. 13. But the hireling fleeth: for he is an hireling, and regardeth not the sheep. 14. I am a good shepherd, and know mine own, and am known unto mine own, 15. As I know my Father, and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 16. And I have other sheep, which are not of this fold. And these I must bring, and they shall hear my voice, and shall become one fold, and one shepherd]. 17. Wherefore my fathers love me, that I lay down my life, that I may take it again. 18. No one takes it from me, but I take it from myself. I have power to leave it, and I have power to take it again. Such a commandment have I received of my Father. 19. And there was dissension among the Jews concerning these words. 20. Many of them said: He hath the devil, and is foolish: why hear ye him? 21. And the rest said: These are not the words of one possessed; can the devil open the eyes of the blind? 22. And it was the feast of Jerusalem, and winter. 23. And JEsus walked in the temple, in the hall of Solomon. 24. And the Jews compassed him about, and said unto him, How long wilt thou keep our souls? If thou be Christ, tell us freely. 25. Jesus answered them: I have told you, and ye believe not. The works that I do in my Father's name bear witness of me. 26. But ye believe not: for ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 27. For my sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28. And I will give them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of mine hand. 29. The Father that gave them me is greater than all; and no man can pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30. I and the Father are one. 31. And the Jews again heaped up stones, that they might stone him. 32. Jesus answered them: Many good works have I shewed you of my Father: for what work among these do ye stone me? 33. And the Jews answered him, and said: For the good work we stone thee not, but for blasphemy, and that thou art a man, and makest thyself a god. 34. And JEsus said unto them, Is it not written in your law? I said, Ye are gods? 35. If he name the gods, unto whom the word of God was spoken (and the scripture cannot be broken), 36. Say ye then unto him whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world: Thou blasphemest God, because I say that I am the Son of God? 37. If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. 38. But if I do them, believe the works; if ye will not believe me, that ye may know and believe that the Father is in me, and I in him. 39. And they sought again to take him, but he escaped out of their hands. 40. And he went again beyond Jordan unto the place where John had baptized before, and abode there. 41. And many came unto him, and said: John did no sign: but all that John hath said of this is true. 42. And there believed many in him. (John) Chapter 11 Raising of the deceased Lazarus. 1. And there was one sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, in the town of Mary and her sister Martha. 2. Now Mary was she that anointed the Lord with ointments, and wiped his feet with her hair: and Lazarus his brother was sick. - 3. And his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. 4. And when JEsus heard it, he said, The sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of GOD, that the Son of GOD might be honoured thereby. 5. And Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. 6. And when he heard that he was sick, he tarried two days in the place where he was. 7. And afterward he saith unto his disciples, Let us return into Judaea. 8. And his disciples said unto him, Master, that time the Jews wished to stone thee, and thou wilt go thither again? 9. Jesus answered, Are not the day twelve hours? He that walketh by day stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. 10. But he that walketh by night stumbleth, because there is no light in him. 11. These things said he, and afterward saith he unto them: Lazarus, our friend, sleepeth; but I go to wake him up. 12. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, it shall be better with him. 13. And Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he spake of sleep in the flesh. 14. Then said JEsus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. 15. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that ye might believe. But let us go unto him. 16. Then said Thomas, which is called a twin, unto the disciples, Let us go with him, that we may die with him. 17. Then came JEsus, and found him that he had been four days in the grave. 18. And Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, by fifteen highways. 19. And many Jews were come to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. 20. And when Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him: but Mary sat at home. 21. And Martha said unto JESUS, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died; 22. But I also know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you. 23. And JESUS saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. 24. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. 25. Jesus saith unto her: I am the resurrection, and the life. He that believeth on me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; 26. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Do you believe that? 27. And she saith unto him, Lord, yea, I believe that thou art Christ, the Son of God, which is come into the world. 28. And when she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary secretly, saying, The Master is here, and calleth thee. 29. The same, when she heard it, arose in haste, and came unto him. 30. For JEsus was not yet come into the village, but was yet in the place where Martha met him. 31. And the Jews which were with her in the house, when they comforted her, seeing Mary arise in haste, and go out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the sepulchre to weep there. 32. And when Mary was come where JEsus was, and saw him, she fell at his feet, and said unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. 33. When JEsus saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he was moved in spirit, and grieved himself. 34. And said, Where have ye laid him? And they said unto him, Lord, come and see. 35. And JEsu's eyes went out. 36. And the Jews said, Behold, how he loved him! 37. And some of them said: Could not he that opened the eyes of the blind cause him also not to die? 38. And again Jesus was moved with rage within himself, and came to the sepulchre. And there was a cleft, and a stone laid thereon. 39. And Jesus said, Take away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him: Lord, he stinketh already: for he hath lain four days. 40. Jesus saith unto her, Did not I say unto thee, if thou shouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? 41. And they took down the stone where the dead man lay. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. 42. Yet I know that thou hearest me always: but for the sake of the people that stand round about, I say it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. 43. When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. 44. And he that was dead came forth bound with graveclothes upon his feet and hands, and his face covered with a facecloth. JESUS saith unto them: Unbind him, and let him go. 45. Many therefore of the Jews which came to Mary, and saw what JEsus did, believed on him. 46. And some of them went unto the Pharisees, and told them what JEsus had done. 47. Then the chief priests and the Pharisees assembled a council, and said: What are we doing? This person does a lot of sign. 48. So let us leave him, and they shall all believe in him. Then the Romans will come and take our land and people. 49. And one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said unto them: Ye know nothing, 50. Consider nothing: it is better for us that one man should die for the people, than that the whole people should perish. 51. And these things spake he not of himself; but, being high priest that year, he prophesied. For Jesus was to die for the people, 52. And not for the people only, but that he might gather together the children of God which were scattered. 53. From that day they took counsel, how they killed him. 54. And Jesus walked no more freely among the Jews, but went from thence into a region near the wilderness into a city called Ephrem, and had his being there with his disciples. 55. And the passover of the Jews was at hand: and many went up to Jerusalem out of the region before the passover, to be purified. 56. And they asked after JEsu, and said one to another in the temple, Why think ye that he cometh not at the feast? 57. And the chief priests and Pharisees had sent forth a commandment, if any man knew where he was, to shew it, that they should take him. (John) Chapter 12 Anointing of Christ. Entry into Jerusalem. Sermon of the fruit of his death, even of faith and unbelief. 1. Six days before Easter came Jesus to Bethany, where Lazarus was, the dead man, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2. And there they made him supper, and Martha ministered: and Lazarus was one of them that sat at meat with him. 3. And Mary took a pound of ointment of unbleached precious nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the smell of the ointment. 4. Then spake one of his disciples, Judas the son of Simon, Iscariot, who betrayed him afterward: 5. Why is not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? 6. And this he said not, that he asked for the poor: but he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare that which was given. 7. Then said JESUS, Let her alone. This she kept unto the day of my burial. 8. For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. 9. And when many of the Jews heard that he was there, they came not for JESUS' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead. 10. But the chief priests sought to kill Lazarus also. 11. For because of him many Jews went and believed on Jesus. 12. And the next day, when much people were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was come to Jerusalem, 13. And they took palm branches, and went out to meet him, crying out: Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD, a king of Israel! 14. And Jesus overcame a little donkey, and rode upon it, as it is written: 15. Fear not, O daughter of Zion: behold, thy king cometh riding upon an ass's colt. 16. But these things his disciples did not understand before: but when Jesus was glorified, they remembered that these things were written of him, and that they had done them unto him. 17. And the people which were with him, when he called Lazarus out of the sepulchre, and raised him from the dead, glorified the deed. 18. Wherefore also the people went out to meet him, when they heard that he had done this sign. 19. And the Pharisees said one to another, Ye see that ye do nothing: behold, all the world followeth after him. 20. And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast. 21. And they came to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and besought him, saying: Lord, we would gladly see Jesus. 22. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew, and Philip and Andrew told JEsu further. 23. And Jesus answered and said unto them, The time is come that the Son of man should be glorified. 24. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. 25. He that loveth his life shall lose it: and he that hateth his life in this world shall have it unto life eternal. 26. Whosoever will serve me, let him follow me: and where I am, there shall my servant be also. And he that will serve me, him shall my Father honour]. 27. Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? Father, help me out of this hour! But this is why I have come to this hour. 28. Father, glorify thy name. Then came a voice from heaven, saying, I have glorified him, and will glorify him again. 29. And the people which stood by and heard said, There was thunder. And the rest said: An angel spake unto him. 30. Jesus answered and said, This voice is not for my sake, but for your sakes. 31. Now is the judgment come upon the world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. 32. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw them all unto me. 33. And this said he, to signify what death he should die. 34. And the people answered him, We have heard in the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou then that the Son of man must be exalted? Who is this Son of man? 35. Then said JEsus unto them: The light is yet a little while with you. While ye have the light, walk, that darkness overtake you not. He that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. 36. Believe in the light while ye have it, that ye may be the children of light. 37. These things spake JEsus, and went away, and hid himself from them. And though he did these signs before them, yet believed they not on him, 38. That the saying of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he saith, Lord, who shall believe our preaching, and to whom shall the arm of the Lord be revealed? 39. Wherefore they could not believe: for again Isaiah saith: 40. He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart, that they should not see with their eyes, nor hear with their heart, and be converted, and I should save them. 41. These things said Isaiah, when he saw his glory, and spake of him. 42. But many of the rulers believed in him; but for the Pharisees' sakes they confessed it not, lest they should be put under the ban; 43. For they had rather glory with men than glory with GOD. 44. And Jesus cried out, saying, He that believeth on me believeth not on me, but on him that sent me. 45. And he that beholdeth me beholdeth him that sent me. 46. I am come into the world a light, that whosoever believeth in me should not abide in darkness. 47. And whosoever heareth my words, and believeth not, him will I not judge: for I am not come to judge the world, but to save the world. 48. He that despiseth me, and receiveth not my words, hath he that judgeth him: the word which I have spoken shall judge him in the last day. 49. For I have not spoken of myself, but the Father which sent me hath given me a commandment what I should do and what I should say: 50. And I know that his commandment is life eternal. Therefore whatsoever I speak, that speak I even as the Father hath given me. (John) Chapter 13 Foot washing. Commandment of love. Judas' betrayal. Transfiguration of Christ. Peter's fall. 1. Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his time was come to depart out of this world unto the Father, as he loved his own which were in the world, even so loved he them unto the end. 2. And after supper, when already the devil had put into the heart of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray him, 3. JEsus knew that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from GOD and was going to GOD: 4. And he arose from supper, and put off his garments, and took an apron, and girded himself. 5. And afterward he poured water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to dry them with his apron, that he might be girded about. 6. And he came to Simon Peter; and he said unto him, Lord, wilt thou wash my feet? 7. And JEsus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. 8. Then said Peter unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. And Jesus said unto him, If I wash thee not, thou shalt have no part with me. 9. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not the feet only, but the hands also, and the head. 10. Jesus saith unto him, He that is washed needeth not but to wash his feet, but is clean altogether. And ye are clean, but not all of you. 11. For he knew his betrayer well: therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. 12. And when he had washed their feet, he took up his garments, and sat down again, and spake unto them again: Know ye what I have done unto you? 13. Ye call me Master, and Lord; and ye say rightly unto it: for I also am. 14. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye shall wash one another's feet also. 15. An example have I given you, that ye should do as I have done unto you]. 16. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord, neither the apostle greater than he that sent him. 17. If ye know these things, blessed are ye if ye do them. 18. I say not of you all, (I know which I have mentioned,) but that the scripture may be fulfilled: He that eateth my bread treadeth me under foot. 19. Now I tell you before it come to pass, that, when it is done, ye may believe that I am he. 20. Verily, verily, I say unto you: He that receiveth, if I send any, receiveth me: but he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. 21. When JE Jesus had said these things, he was grieved in spirit, and testified, saying: Verily, verily, I say unto you, one of you shall betray me. 22. Then the disciples looked one to another, and were afraid of him of whom he spake. 23. And there was one of his disciples that sat at meat at the breast of JESUS, whom JESUS loved. 24. To whom Simon Peter beckoned to inquire who it was of whom he spake. 25. For he lay on the breast of JESUS, and said unto him, Lord, who is it? 26. And JEsus answered, He it is to whom I dip the morsel, and give it. And he dipped the morsel, and gave it to Judas, Simon's son, Iscariot. 27. And after the morsel Satan entered into him. Then said JEsus unto him, Whatsoever thou doest, do at once. 28. But the same knew no man above the table, whereunto he told him. 29. Some thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus said unto him, Buy that which we have need of at the feast; or that he should give to the poor. 30. And when he had taken the morsel, he went out immediately. And it was night. 31. And when he was departed, JESUS saith, Now is the Son of man glorified, and GOD is glorified in him. 32. If God be glorified in him, God also shall glorify him in himself, and shall glorify him shortly. 33. Little children, I am with you yet a little while. You will seek me; and as I said to the Jews, Where I go, you cannot come. 34. And now I say unto you, A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, as I have loved you; that ye also love one another. 35. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. 36. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, As I go, thou canst not follow me this time; but thou shalt follow me hereafter. 37. Peter saith unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee this time? I will lay down my life for thee. 38. Jesus answered him, Shouldest thou lay down thy life for me? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice. (John) Chapter 14 Of Christ's useful entrance. Of faith and love, prayer, the Holy Spirit and right peace. 1. And he said unto his disciples, Let not your heart be troubled. If ye believe in God, ye believe also in me. 2. In my father's house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would say unto you, I will go and prepare a place for you. 3. Though I go to prepare a place for you, yet will I come again, and receive you unto myself, that ye may be where I am. 4. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know also. 5. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 7. If ye knew me, ye knew my Father also. And from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. 8. Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it shall be sufficient for us. 9. Jesus saith unto him, How long am I with you, and thou knowest me not? Philip, he that seeth me seeth the Father. How sayest thou then: Show us the Father? 10. Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself. But the Father that dwelleth in me, the same doeth the works. 11. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: if not, believe me for the works. 12. Verily, verily, I say unto you: He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also, and shall do greater works than these: for I go unto the Father. 13. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be honoured in the Son. 14. Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do]. 15. If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever, 17. The Spirit of truth, which the world cannot receive: for it beholdeth him not, neither knoweth him. But ye know him; for he abideth with you, and shall be in you. 18. I will not leave you orphans: I will come unto you. 19. It is yet a little, and the world shall see me no more: but ye shall see me: for I live, and ye shall live also. 20. In that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. 21. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me. But he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him. 22. saith Judas, not Iscariot, unto him, Lord, what is this that thou wilt shew thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23. And JEsus answered and said unto him, He that loveth me shall keep my word; and my Father shall love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. 24. But he that loveth me not keepeth not my words. And the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. 25. These things have I spoken unto you, because I have been with you. 26. But the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, whom my Father shall send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, which I have spoken unto you. 27. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 28. Ye have heard that I said unto you: I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice that I said this: I go unto the Father: for the Father is greater than I. 29. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe. 30. I will not henceforth speak much unto you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. 31. But that the world may know that I love the Father, and that I do even as the Father hath commanded me, arise, and let us depart]. (John) Chapter 15 Exhortation to constancy in faith, love and patience. 1. I am a true vine, and my father a husbandman. 2. Every branch of mine that bringeth not forth fruit will he take away; and every branch that bringeth forth fruit will he cleanse, that it may bring forth more fruit. 3. Ye are now clean because of the word which I have spoken unto you. 4. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bring forth fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; so neither can ye, except ye abide in me. 5. I am the vine; ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 6. He that abideth not in me is cast away as a branch, and withered: and they gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. 7. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 8. In this my Father is honoured, that ye bear much fruit, and become my disciples. 9. As my Father loveth me, even so love I you. Abide in my love! 10. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I keep my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. 11. These things speak I unto you, that my joy may abide in you, and that your joy may be full. 12. This is my commandment, that ye love one another, even as I love you. 13. Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. 14. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. 15. I say not henceforth, Ye are servants: for a servant knoweth not what his lord doeth. But unto you have I said, Ye are friends: for all things whatsoever I have heard of my Father have I made known unto you. 16. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and have appointed that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that if ye pray the Father in my name, he may give it you in the day of Simon, and that he may give it you. 17. These things I command you, that ye love one another. 18. If the world hate you, know that it hated me before you. 19. If ye were of the world, the world would have loved their own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. 20. Remember my word, which I said unto you: The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you: if they have kept my word, they will also keep yours. 21. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake: for they know not him that sent me.] 22. If I had not come and told them, they would have had no sin: but now they have nothing to excuse their sin. 23. He that hateth me hateth my Father also. 24. If I had not done among them the works which no other man had done, they had not sinned: but now they have seen, and yet they hate both me and my Father. 25. But that the saying might be fulfilled which is written in their law, They hate me without a cause. 26. But when the Comforter shall come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, the Spirit of truth which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. 27. And ye also shall bear witness: for ye have been with me from the beginning. (John) Chapter 16 Of future persecution. Christ's Ascent to the Father. The ministry of the Holy Spirit. The happy end of the tribulation. Answer to prayer. The disciples' flight. 1. These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2. And they shall put you under a ban. But the time will come when he who kills you will think he is doing God a service. 3. And these things shall they do unto you, that they know not my Father, nor me. 4. But these things have I spoken unto you, that, when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you. But these things have I not told you from the beginning; for I was with you]. 5. But now I go unto him that sent me; and none of you ask me, Whither goest thou? 6. But because I have spoken these things unto you, your heart is filled with sorrow. 7. But I tell you the truth, it is good for you that I go. For if I go not, the Comforter will not come unto you: but if I go, I will send him unto you. 8. And when he shall come, he shall punish the world for sin, and for righteousness, and for judgment: 9. For sin, that they believe not on me; 10. But for righteousness, that I should go unto the Father, and ye should not see me henceforth; 11. For the judgment that the prince of this world is judged. 12. I have yet much to say unto you; but ye cannot bear it now. 13. But when he, the Spirit of truth, shall come, he shall guide you into all truth. For he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak; and whatsoever is to come, that shall he declare unto you. 14. The same shall transfigure me: for of mine own shall he take, and declare it unto you. 15. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, He shall take of mine, and shall declare it unto you]. 16. Over a little one ye shall not see me; but over a little one ye shall see me: for I go unto the Father. 17. Then said some of his disciples one to another, What is this that he saith unto us, Over one ye shall not see me, but over a little ye shall see me, and that I go unto the Father? 18. Then said they: What is this that he saith, About a little one? We know not what he speaketh. 19. Then perceiving that they were desirous to ask him, Jesus saith unto them: Of these things ask ye one another, that I have said: Over a little one, ye shall not see me; but over a little one, ye shall see me. 20. Verily, verily, I say unto you: Ye shall weep and wail; but the world shall rejoice. But ye shall be sorrowful: but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. 21. A woman, when she beareth, hath sorrow: for her hour is come. But when she hath brought forth the child, she thinketh no more of sorrow for the joy that a man is born into the world. 22. And ye also now have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man shall take from you. 23. And in that day ye shall ask me nothing]. 23. Verily, verily, I say unto you, If ye shall ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it you. 24. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you shall receive, that your joy may be complete. 25. These things have I spoken unto you by proverbs. But the time cometh, that I will no more speak unto you by proverbs, but will freely declare unto you of my Father. 26. In that day ye shall ask in my name. And I do not tell you that I will ask the Father for you; 27. For he himself, the Father, loveth you, because ye love me, and believe that I came forth from God. 28. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again I leave the world, and go unto the Father. 29. His disciples say unto him, Behold, now speakest thou freely, and sayest no proverb. 30. Now we know that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man ask thee. Therefore we believe that thou hast gone forth before God]. 31. JEsus answered them: Now believe ye. 32. Behold, the hour cometh, and is come, that ye should be scattered every man to his own, and leave me alone. But I am not alone; for the Father is with me. 33. These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye are afraid: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John) Chapter 17 Christ's prayer for Himself, His disciples, church and community. 1. These things spake JEsus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is here, that thou shouldest glorify thy Son, that thy Son also should glorify thee, 2. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he might give eternal life to all whom thou hast given him. 3. And this is life eternal, that they may know thee, that thou only art true God, and whom thou hast sent, Jesus Christ. 4. I have glorified thee upon the earth, and Thou hast finished the work which thou gavest me to do. 5. And now thou, Father, glorify me with thine own self with the clearness which I had with thee before the world was. 6. I have manifested thy name unto men, whom thou gavest me out of the world. They were thine, and thou gavest them unto me; and they have kept thy word. 7. Now they know that all things which thou hast given me are of thee. 8. For the words which thou gavest me I have given them: and they have received them, and have known truly that I came forth from thee, and have believed that thou didst send me. 9. I pray for them, and pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me: for they are thine. 10. And all that is mine is thine, And that which is thine is mine; and I am glorified in them. 11. And I am no more in the world: but they are in the world, and I come unto thee. Holy Father, keep them in thy name, which thou hast given me, that they may be one like us. 12. While I was with them in the world, I preserved them in thy name. Those whom thou gavest me I have preserved: and there is not one of them lost, save the child that is lost, that the scripture may be fulfilled. 13. But now I come unto thee, and speak these things in the world, that they may have my joy made perfect in them. 14. I have given them thy word, and the world hateth them: for they are not of the world, as I also am not of the world. 15. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from evil. 16. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17. Sanctify them in thy truth: thy word is truth. 18. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so send I them into the world. 19. I sanctify myself for them, that they also may be sanctified in the truth. 20. But I pray not for them only, but also for them which shall believe on me through their word, 21. That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee; that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 22. And I have given them the glory which thou gavest me, that they may be one, even as we are one, 23. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, even as thou hast loved me. 24. Father, I will that where I am, they also which thou hast given me may be with me, that they may behold my glory which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. 25. Righteous Father, the world knoweth not thee: but I know thee, and these know that thou hast sent me. 26. And I have made known unto them thy name, and will make known unto them, that love, that thou mayest love me, may be in them, and I in them. (John) Chapter 18 Christ's suffering before Caiaphas and Pilate. 1. When JEsus had spoken these things, he went out with his disciples over the brook Kidron. And there was a garden, into which went JEsus and his disciples. 2. And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for JEsus was often gathered together there with his disciples. 3. Judas therefore, having taken with him the multitude, and the officers of the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with torches and lamps and weapons. 4. When therefore Jesus knew all things that should befall him, he went out, and said unto them: Whom seek ye? 5. They answered him, JEsum of Nazareth. JEsus saith unto them: I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. 6. And when JEsus said unto them: It is I, they drew back, and fell to the ground. 7. And he asked them again, Whom seek ye? And they said: Jesus of Nazareth. 8. Jesus answered: I told you that it was I. If ye then seek me, let these go 9. That the word might be fulfilled which he said, I have lost none that thou gavest me. 10. And Simon Peter had a sword, and drew it, and smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear: and the servant's name was Malchus. 11. Then said JEsus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which my Father hath given me? 12. And the multitude, and the chief captain, and the servants of the Jews, took JEsum, and bound him. 13. And they brought him first to Annas, which was the brother in law of Caiaphas, which was the high priest of that year. 14. And it was Caiaphas that counselled the Jews, saying, It is good that a man should be put to death for the people. 15. And Simon Peter followed JEsu, and another disciple. The same disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with JEsu into the palace of the high priest. 16. And Peter stood without the door. And the other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, went out, and spake unto the doorkeeper, and brought Peter in. 17. Then said the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of these men's disciples? And he said: I am not. 18. And the servants and menservants stood by, having made a fire of coals (for it was cold), and warming themselves. And Peter stood with them, and warmed himself. 19. But the high priest asked JEsum for his disciples, and for his doctrine. 20. Jesus answered him, I have spoken openly before the world. I have taught always in the synagogue, and in the temple, where all the Jews are gathered together, and have spoken nothing in secret. 21. Why askest thou me this? Ask them therefore which have heard what I have spoken unto them. Behold, they know what I have said. 22. And as he spake these things, the servant gave JEsu a blow on the cheek to one of them that stood by, saying, Answerest thou the high priest thus? 23. Jesus answered, If I have spoken evil, let it be proved that it is evil: but if I have spoken right, why smitest thou me? 24. And Annas sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest. 25. And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. And they said unto him, Art not thou one of his disciples? But he denied it, saying: I am not. 26. One of the servants of the high priest, a friend of him whose ear Peter had cut off, saith, Did I not see thee in the garden with him? 27. Then Peter denied again; and straightway the cock crowed. 28. And they brought JEsum from Caiaphas unto the judgment house. And it was early. And they entered not into the judgment house, lest they should be defiled, and eat the passover. 29. And Pilate went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man? 30. And they answered and said unto him, If this man were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered him unto thee. 31. Pilate therefore said unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. Then said the Jews unto him: We mustn't kill anyone 32. That the word of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake when he foretold what death he should die. 33. Then Pilate went again into the judgment house, and called JEsu, and said unto him, Art thou king of the Jews? 34. Jesus answered, Speakest thou this of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me? 35. Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thy people and the chief priests delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done? 36. Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. 37. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou then a king? Jesus answered, Thou sayest, I am a king. For this cause was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. He that is of the truth heareth my voice. 38. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and saith unto them: I find no fault in him. 39. But ye have a custom, that I should release one unto you at the passover: will ye now that I release unto you the king of the Jews? 40. Then cried they all again, saying: Not this man, but Barabbas. But Barabbas was a murderer. (John) Chapter 19 Christ's flagellation, coronation, crucifixion, death and burial. 1. Then Pilate took JEsum, and scourged him. 2. And the soldiers wove a crown of thorns, and put it upon his head, and put a purple robe upon him. 3. And they said, Hail, king of the Jews! and they smote him with their cheeks. 4. Then Pilate went out again, and said unto them, Behold, I bring him forth unto you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him. 5. So JEsus went forth, wearing a crown of thorns and a purple robe. And he saith unto them, Behold, what manner of man! 6. And when the chief priests and the servants saw him, they cried out, saying: Crucify, crucify! Pilate saith unto them: Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. 7. The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by the law he shall die: for he hath made himself the Son of GOD. 8. And when Pilate heard the word, he feared the more. 9. And went again into the judgment house, and saith unto JEsu, Whence art thou? But JEsus gave him no answer. 10. And Pilate said unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11. Jesus answered, Thou wouldest have no power over me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. 12. From that time Pilate sought how he might release him. And the Jews cried out, saying: If thou release this man, thou art not Caesar's friend: for he that maketh himself king is against Caesar. 13. And when Pilate heard the word, he brought forth JEsum, and sat in the judgment seat in the place which is called the high place, and in the language of the Jews Gabbatha. 14. And it was the preparation for Easter about the sixth hour. And he saith unto the Jews, Behold, this is your king! 15. And they cried, Away, away with him, crucify him. Said Pilate unto them, Shall I crucify your king? The chief priests answered: We have no king but Caesar. 16. Then delivered he him unto them to be crucified. And they took JEsum, and led him away. 17. And he bare his cross, and went out unto the place which is called the place of the skull, which is called Golgotha in the language of the Jews. 18. And there they crucified him, and with him two others on either side, and Jesus in the midst. 19. And Pilate wrote a superscription, and set it upon the cross; and it was written: JEsus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. 20. This superscription was read by many of the Jews: for the place was nigh unto the city where Jesus was crucified. And it was written in the Ebrew, and in the Greek, and in the Latin languages. 21. Then said the chief priests of the Jews unto Pilate, Write not, I am king of the Jews; but that he hath said: I am the king of the Jews. 22. Pilate answered, What I have written, that have I written. 23. And the soldiers, when they had crucified JESUS, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part, and the skirt also. And the skirt was unstitched, and was sewn from the top through and through. 24. And they said one to another, Let us not divide him, but let us cast lots for him whose he shall be, that the scripture may be fulfilled which saith, They have divided my garments among them. And have cast lots upon my skirt). This is what the soldiers did. 25. And by the cross of JESUS stood his mother, and his mother's sister Mary, the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 26. And when JE saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son. 27. After this he saith unto the disciple, Behold, this is thy mother. And from that hour the disciple took her unto him. 28. After this, when JEsus knew that all things were finished, that the scripture should be fulfilled, he saith, I thirst. 29. And there was a vessel full of vinegar. And they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it about hyssop, and put it to his mouth. 30. And when JEsus had taken the vinegar, he said, It is finished. And bowing his head, he passed away. 31. And the Jews, because it was the preparation day, that the dead bodies should not remain upon the cross through the sabbath, (for the sabbath day was great,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken down. 32. And the soldiers came, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other that was crossed with him. 33. And when they came to JEsu, seeing that he was already dead, they broke not his legs, 34. But one of the soldiers opened his side with a spear, and immediately there came out blood and water. 35. And he that hath seen it hath borne witness, and his witness is true; and he knoweth that he speaketh the truth, that ye also may believe. 36. For these things were done, that the scripture might be fulfilled: Ye shall not break his bones. 37. And again another scripture saith, They shall see which they have pricked. 38. After these things Pilate was asked of Joseph of Arimathea, which was a disciple of JESUS, yet secretly, for fear of the Jews, to take away the body of JEsu. And Pilate permitted it. And he came and took down the body of JEsu. 39. And there came also Nicodemus, which came before by night unto JEsu, bringing myrrh and aloes among them for an hundred pounds. 40. Then took they the body of JESUS, and bound it in linen cloths with spices, as the Jews are wont to bury. 41. And there was in the place where he was crucified a garden, and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein no man was ever laid. 42. And there they laid JEsus for the Jews' preparation, because the sepulchre was near. (John) Chapter 20 Christ's resurrection revealed and confirmed in Judea. 1. Now on the sabbath day Mary Magdalene came early, while it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and saw that the stone was removed from the sepulchre. 2. And she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him. 3. Then Peter and the other disciple went out, and came to the sepulchre. 4. And the two ran together, and the other disciple ran first, more quickly than Peter, and came first to the sepulchre, 5. And he looked in, and saw the lines laid: but he went not in. 6. Then Simon Peter came after him, and entered into the sepulchre, and saw the linen laid. 7. And the face-cloth, which was bound about Jesus' head, was not laid with the linen, but was wrapped up by itself in a special place. 8. And the other disciple also, which came first to the sepulchre, went in, and saw, and believed. 9. For they knew not yet the scripture, that he should rise from the dead. 10. Then the disciples went together again. 11. And Mary stood before the sepulchre weeping without. And as she wept, she looked into the sepulchre. 12. And behold, two angels in white robes sitting, one at the head, and the other at the feet, when they had laid the body of JESUS. 13. And they said unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? And she saith unto them, They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him. 14. And when she had said this, she turned back, and saw JEsum standing, and knew not that it was JEsus. 15. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou? She thinketh it is the gardener, and saith unto him, Lord, if thou hast carried him away, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will fetch him. 16. Jesus saith unto her, Mary. Then she turned and said unto him, Rabbuni, that is, Master. 17. Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not: for I am not yet ascended unto my Father. But go thy way to my brothers and say to them: I ascend to my Father and to your Father, to my God and to your God. 18 Mary Magdalene cometh, and saith unto the disciples: I have seen the Lord, and these things he said unto me. 19. And it came to pass in the evening of the same sabbath, when the disciples were gathered together, and the doors were shut for fear of the Jews, that JEsus came and stood in the midst, and saith unto them: Peace be unto you. 20. And when he had said this, he shewed them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, because they saw the Lord. 21. Then said JEsus unto them again: Peace be unto you. As the Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them: Receive ye the Holy Ghost. 23. Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them: and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 24. But Thomas, one of the twelve, which is called the twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25. Then said the other disciples unto him, We have seen the Lord. And he said unto them: Except I see in his hands the marks of the nails, and put my finger into the marks of the nails, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it. 26. And again his disciples were there eight days, and Thomas with them. Then cometh Jesus, when the doors were shut, and entereth in the midst, and saith, Peace be unto you. 27. After this he saith unto Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and put it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29. Jesus saith unto him, Because thou hast seen me, Thomas, thou hast believed. Blessed are they that see not, and yet believe. 30. And many other signs did JEsus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. 31. Now these things are written, that ye might believe that JEsus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life in his name]. (John) Chapter 21 Christ's resurrection revealed in Galilee. 1. After these things Jesus manifested himself again unto the disciples by the sea of Tiberias. But he revealed himself thus. 2. There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Twin, and Nathanael of Cana Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and other two of his disciples. 3. Simon Peter saith unto them: I will go fishing. And they said unto him, We will go with thee. And they went out, and entered into the ship straightway: and that night they caught nothing. 4. And when it was now morning, JEsus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was JEsus. 5. Jesus saith unto them: Children, have ye nothing to eat? They answered him, No. 6. And he said unto them: Cast the net to the right hand of the ship, and ye shall find. And they cast, and could not draw it for the multitude of fishes. 7. Then saith the disciple whom Jesus loved unto Peter, It is the LORD. And when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girded his shirt about him (for he was naked), and cast himself into the sea. 8. And the other disciples came in the ship, (for they were not far from the land, but about two hundred cubits,) and drew the net with the fishes. 9. And when they went out into the country, they saw coals laid, and fish laid up, and bread. 10. Say ye unto them, Jesus: Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. 11. And Simon Peter went in, and drew the net upon the land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three. And though they were so many, yet the net brake not. 12. Jesus saith unto them: Come and keep the supper. But none of the disciples might ask him, Who art thou? For they knew that it was the Lord. 13. Then cometh JESUS, and taketh the bread, and giveth them, and likewise the fishes. 14. Now this is the third time that JESUS was manifested unto his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead. 15. And when they had made supper, Jesus saith unto Simon Peter, Simon Joanna, lovest thou me better than these have me? And he saith unto him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. saith he unto him, Feed my lambs. 16. And he saith unto him the second time, Simon Joanna, lovest thou me? And he saith unto him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. And he saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 17. And he saith unto him the third time, Simon Joanna, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved, because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? and said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 18. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast younger, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and lead thee whither thou wouldest not. 19. And this said he, to signify with what death he would praise God. And when he had said this, he saith unto him, Follow me. 20. And Peter turned, and saw the disciple whom JEsus loved following, who also lay at his breast at supper, and said, Lord, who is he that betrayeth thee? 21. And when Peter saw it, he saith unto JESUS, Lord, what is this? 22. Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Thou shalt follow me. 23. And there went out a saying among the brethren: This disciple dieth not. And Jesus said not unto him, He dieth not: but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what dost thou care? 24. This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and hath written these things: and we know that his testimony is true]. 25. There are also many other things which Jesus did, which, if they should be written one by one, I fear the world would not understand the books to be written. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Acts of Luke (Acts of the Apostles) ^ Chapter 1 Ascension of Christ. Calling of Matthias to the apostleship. (Epistle on Ascension Day.) 1. The first discourse I have indeed done, dear Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and to teach, 2. Until the day that he was taken up, after that he had given commandment by the Holy Ghost unto the apostles, whom he had chosen, 3. To whom, after his affliction, he shewed himself alive in many things: and he was seen of them forty days, and talked with them of the kingdom of God. 4. And when he had gathered them together, he commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which ye have heard (saith he) of me. 5. For John baptized with water: but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 6. And they that were gathered together asked him, saying: Lord, wilt thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel? 7. And he said unto them: It is not lawful for you to know the time or the hour which the Father hath reserved for his power, 8. But ye shall receive power from the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you: and ye shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and unto the ends of the earth. 9. And when he had spoken these things, he was visibly taken up, and a cloud received him away from before their eyes. 10. And as they looked on him going up to heaven, behold, there stood by them two men clothed in white, 11. Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing into heaven? This Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall come as ye have seen him go into heaven]. 12. And they turned again to Jerusalem from the mountain which is called the mount of Olives, which is nigh unto Jerusalem, and lieth by the way of the sabbath. 13. And when they were come in, they went up into the upper chamber, where Peter and James, and John and Andrew, and Philip and Thomas, and Bartholomew and Matthew, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the son of James, were. 14. All these were always together with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of JEsu, and his brethren. (Epistle on St. Matthew's Day.) 15. And in those days Peter stood up among the disciples, and said, (and the multitude of the names was about an hundred and twenty,) 16. Men and brethren, the scripture must be fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost spake before by the mouth of David of Judas, who was a forerunner of them that caught Jesus. 17. For he was numbered with us, and had this ministry with us. 18. This man hath purchased the field for an unjust reward, and hath been hanged, and hath broken in pieces, and poured out all his bowels. 19. And it was known unto all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that the same field was called in their language Hakeldama, that is, a field of blood. 20. For it is written in the book of Psalms: Let their habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein; and let another receive his bishopric. 21. Now therefore one of these men, which have been with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went out and came in among us, must be with us, 22. From the baptism of John until the day he is taken from us, to be a witness of his resurrection with us. 23. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, whose surname was Just, and Matthias, 24. And prayed, and said: O LORD, the rebuke of all hearts, shew us which of these two thou hast chosen, 25. That one might receive this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas departed, to go into his own place. 26. And they cast lots upon them: and the lot fell upon Matthias. And he was assigned to the eleven apostles]. (Acts) Chapter 2 Outpouring of the Holy Spirit, defended by Peter with a useful sermon. (Epistle on the holy feast of Pentecost.) 1. And when the day of Pentecost was fulfilled, they were all with one accord together. 2. And there came quickly a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they sat. 3. And there were seen in them tongues parted, as though they were fiery. And he sat upon every one of them. 4. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to preach with other tongues, when the Spirit had given them utterance. 5. Now there were Jews dwelling at Jerusalem, which were godly men of all people that are under heaven. 6. And when this voice was heard, the multitude came together, and were troubled: for every man heard that they spake with his own language. 7. And they were all amazed, and marvelled, and said one to another, Behold, are not all these that speak of Galilee? 8. How then hear we every man his own language, wherein we are born? 9. Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and them that dwell in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and in Cappadocia, and in Pontus, and in Asia. 10. Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt, and the ends of Libya at Cyrene, and foreigners from Rome, 11. Jews and fellow Jews, Cretans and Arabs: we hear them speaking with our tongues the great deeds of GOD. 12. They were all amazed, and went astray, and said one to another: What will this be? 13. And the rest had their mocking, and said, They are full of sweet wine]. 14. Then Peter stood up with the eleven, and lifted up his voice, and spake unto them: Ye Jews, men, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, let this be known unto you; and let my words come into your ears. 15. For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, because it is the third hour of the day. 16. But this is that which was spoken before by the prophet Joel: 17. And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith GOD, that I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your elders shall dream dreams. 18. And upon my servants and upon my handmaids will I pour out of my spirit in those days, and they shall prophesy. 19. And I will do wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath: Blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and appearing day of the LORD come. 21. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved. 22. Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jehovah of Nazareth, the man of God, proving among you deeds and wonders and signs, which God did by him among you, as ye yourselves also know, 23. The same (after he had yielded to the counsel and providence of God) ye have taken by the hands of the unrighteous, and have hanged him, and slain him. 24. Him hath God raised up, and loosed the pains of death, when it was impossible that he should be kept by him. 25. For David saith of him, I have set the LORD always before me: for he is at my right hand, that I should not be moved. 26. Therefore my heart is glad, and my tongue rejoiceth: for my flesh also shall rest in hope. 27. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thy saint to see corruption. 28. Thou hast made known unto me the ways of life: thou wilt fill me with joy in thy sight. (Epistle on Pentecost Tuesday.) 29. Men, brethren, let me speak freely unto you of David the arch-father: he is dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. 30. And when he was a prophet, and knew that God had promised him by an oath, that the fruit of his loins should sit upon his throne, 11. He hath seen it before, and hath spoken of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul is not left in hell, neither hath his flesh seen corruption. 32. This JEsum hath God raised up; of whom we are all witnesses. 33. Having been raised up by the right hand of God, and having received the promise of the Holy Spirit from the Father, he poured out these things which ye see and hear. 34. For David went not up to heaven. But he saith, The LORD hath said unto my LORD, Sit thou at my right hand, 35. Until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 36. Know therefore all the house of Israel assuredly, that God hath made this Jesus, whom ye crucified, both Lord and Christ. 37. And when they heard it, they were troubled in their hearts, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles: Men, brethren, what shall we do? 38. Peter saith unto them: Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39. For to you and to your children is this promise, and to all who are afar off, whom God our Lord will call. 40. And with many other words he testified, and exhorted, saying, Let these naughty men help you. 41. And they that gladly received his word were baptized, and were added that day unto three thousand souls. 42. But they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, and in fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43. Fear also came upon all souls, and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44. And all that believed were together, and held all things in common. 45. And they sold their goods and chattels, and divided them among all, according to the need of every man. 46. And they were daily and always together with one accord in the temple, and broke bread to and fro in houses, 47. And they took the meat, and praised God with gladness and singleness of heart, and had favour with all the people. And the LORD added unto the church daily them that were saved. (Acts) Chapter 3 Peter's miraculous work on the lame man and the preaching of Christ for repentance. 1. And Peter and John went up together into the temple about the ninth hour, when they were wont to pray. 2. And there was a man lame from his mother's womb, which was carried. And they set him daily at the door of the temple, which is called the beautiful door, to beg alms of them that came into the temple. 3. When therefore he saw Peter and John about to enter into the temple, he asked an alms. 4. And Peter looked on him with John, and said, Behold us. 5. And he looked upon them, waiting to receive of them. 6. And Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but that which I have I give thee: in the name of JESUS Christ of Nazareth arise, and walk. 7. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up. And immediately his thighs and his ankles were sore; 8. leaped up, able to walk and stand, and went with them into the temple, walking and leaping and praising GOD. 9. And all the people saw him walking, and praising GOD. 10. They knew him also, that it was he which sat at the door of the temple for alms: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had befallen him. 11. And when this lame man, which was now healed, stood by Peter and John, all the people ran unto them into the hall which is called Solomon's, and marvelled. 12. And when Peter saw it, he said unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this, or why look ye on us, as if we had made this walk by our own power or merit? 13. The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his child Jesus, whom ye delivered up and denied before Pilate, when he judged to let him go. 14. But ye denied the holy and righteous, and asked to be given the murderer; 15. But ye have killed the prince of life. Him hath God raised from the dead; of this we are witnesses. 16. And by faith in his name he hath confirmed his name in this man, whom ye see and know: and faith through him hath given this health in your sight. 17. Now, brethren, I know that ye have done it through ignorance, as also your rulers. 18. And God, which he declared beforehand by the mouth of all his prophets, how that Christ should suffer, hath fulfilled it. 19. Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, 20. That the time of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, when he shall send him that is now preached unto you, Jesus Christ, 21. Which must occupy heaven until the time that all that God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets from the world began to be brought again. 22. For Moses said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the LORD your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23. And it shall come to pass, that every soul which shall not hear the same prophet shall be cut off from among the people. 24: And all the prophets from Samuel and after, as many as have spoken of them, have proclaimed of those days. 25. Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with your fathers, saying unto Abraham, In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed. 26. God hath first raised up his child Jesus from the dead, and hath sent him unto you to bless you, that every man might repent of his wickedness. (Acts) Chapter 4 Persecution of the apostles. The believers common prayer, walk and condition. 1. And as they spake unto the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came unto them. 2. Who were grieved because they taught the people, and preached in JEsu the resurrection from the dead. 3. And they laid hands on them, and put them in till the morning: for it was now evening. 4. But many of them that heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand. 5. And it came to pass, when the morning was come, that their rulers and elders and scribes gathered themselves together unto Jerusalem: 6. Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priests, 7. And set them before them, and asked them: By what authority or in what name have ye done this? 8. Peter, full of the Holy Ghost, saith unto them: Ye rulers of the people, and ye elders of Israel, 9. If we be judged this day of this benefit of the sick man, by which he is made whole, 10. Be it known unto you, and to all the people of Israel, that in the name of JESUS CHRIST of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom GOD raised from the dead, he standeth before you whole. 11. This is the stone rejected of you builders, which became the corner stone. 12. And there is salvation in no other, neither is there any other name given unto men, whereby we must be saved. 13. And when they saw the joyfulness of Peter and John, they marvelled: for they knew that they were unlearned men and laymen, and that they had been with Jesus. 14. And when they saw the man which was made whole standing with them, they had nothing to say against it. 15. Then they commanded them to go out of the council, and they traded with one another, saying: 16. What shall we do unto these men? For the sign which was done by them is known, and is manifest unto all them that dwell at Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17. But lest there should be any further breach among the people, let us earnestly rebuke them, that they speak not henceforth of this name to any man. 18. And called them, and commanded them that they should neither hear nor teach in the name of JESUS. 19. And Peter and John answered and said unto them: Judge ye yourselves whether it be right in the sight of God, that we should obey you rather than God. 20. For we cannot refrain from speaking the things which we have seen and heard. 21. But they afflicted them, and let them go, and found not how they afflicted them, because of the people: for they all praised GOD above that which was done. 22. For the man was above forty years old, in whom this sign of health was done. 23. And when they were let go, they came to their own, and told them what the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 24. And when they heard it, they lifted up their voice with one accord unto God, and said: O LORD, thou art the God that made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all that is therein; 25. Who said by the mouth of David thy servant: Why do the heathen revolt, and the nations take that which is in vain? 26. The kings of the earth are gathered together, and the princes are assembled together against the LORD, and against his Christ: 27. Yea, verily they are gathered together concerning thy holy child JEsum, whom thou hast anointed, Herod and Pontius Pilate with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, 28. To do that which thy hand and thy counsel hath before considered, that should come to pass. 29. And now, O LORD, behold their beseeching, and give thy servants to speak thy word with all gladness, 30. And stretch forth thine hand, that health, and signs, and wonders, may be done by the name of thy holy child JEsu. 31. And when they had prayed, the place was moved, when they were gathered together: and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spake the word of God with gladness. 32. And the multitude of the faithful were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any man of his goods that they were his, but all things were common unto them. 33. And with great power did the apostles bear witness of the resurrection of the LORD JEsu, and great grace was with them all. 34. Neither was there any of them that lacked: for as many as were of them that had fields, or houses, they sold them, and brought the money of the goods that were sold. 35. And they laid it at the apostles' feet, and gave to every man his due. 36. And Joses, surnamed of the apostles Barnabas (that is, a son of comfort), of the family of a Levite of Cyprus, 37. Who had a field, and sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet. (Acts) Chapter 5 The quick death of Ananias and Saphira. Capture and deliverance of the apostles. 1. And a man named Ananias, and Sapphira his wife, sold their goods. 2. And took away some of the money, with the knowledge of his wife, and brought a part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. 3. And Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart, that thou hast lied to the Holy Ghost, and stolen some of the money of the field? 4. If thou hadst had him, thou mightest have kept him; and when he was sold, it was in thy power. Why then didst thou make such a thing in thine heart? Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. 5. And when Ananias heard these words, he fell down, and gave up the ghost. And great fear came upon all them that heard these things. 6. And the young men arose, and laid him aside, and carried him out, and buried him. 7. And it came to pass about three hours, that his wife came in, and knew not what was done. 8. But Peter said unto her, Tell me, sold ye the field so dear? And she said, Yea, so dearly. 9. And Peter said unto her, Why then are ye become one to tempt the Spirit of the LORD? Behold, the feet of them that buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. 10. And straightway she fell at his feet, and gave up the ghost. And the young men came, and found her dead, and carried her out, and buried her with her husband. 11. And great fear came upon all the congregation, and upon all them that heard these things. 12. And there were many signs and wonders done among the people by the hands of the apostles, and they were all with one accord in the hall of Solomon. 13. And the rest were not to be joined unto them: but the people thought much of them. 14. And the more were added that believed on the LORD, both men and women, 15. So that they carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and stretchers, that, when Peter came, his shadow might overshadow some of them. 16. There came also many from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing the sick, and those that were tormented with unclean spirits: and they were all healed. 17. And the high priest stood up, and all that were with him, which is the sect of the Sadducees, and were filled with zeal. 18. And laid hands on the apostles, and cast them into the common prison. 19. And the angel of the LORD opened the door of the prison in the night, and brought them forth, and said: 20. Go ye, stand, and speak in the temple unto the people all the words of this life. 21. And when they had heard it, they went early into the temple, and taught. And the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to fetch them. 22. And the servants came, and found them not in prison, and came again, and preached 23. And they said: We found the prison shut up with all diligence, and the keepers without standing before the doors: but when we opened, we found none within. 24. And when the high priest, and the captain of the temple, and the other chief priests, heard this saying, they were troubled at what it was to be. 25. And one came and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye cast into prison are in the temple, standing and teaching the people. 26. Then the centurion went with the servants, and took them, not by force: for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned. 27. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them 28. And said, Have we not earnestly commanded you that ye should not teach in this name? And, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and will bring this man's blood upon us. 29. And Peter answered and the apostles, and said: One must obey God more than men. 30. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew, and hanged on the wood. 31. Whom God hath exalted by his right hand to be a prince and a saviour, to give repentance and remission of sins unto Israel. 32. And we are his witnesses concerning these words, and the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. 33. And when they heard it, it went through their hearts, and they thought to kill them. 34. And there arose in the council a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a scribe, well kept in the sight of all the people, and bade the apostles go forth a little 35. And said unto them: Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves of these men, what ye ought to do. 36. Before these days Theudas stood pretending to be something, and there were hanging upon him a number of men about four hundred: he is slain, and all that fell to him are scattered and destroyed. 37. After these things arose Judas of Galilee in the days of the reckoning, and made much people reproach him: and he also perished, and all that fell to him were scattered. 38. And now I say unto you, Depart from these men, and let them go. If the counsel or the work be of men, it shall perish; 39. But if it be of God, ye cannot restrain it, lest ye be found fighting against God. 40. And they fell upon him, and called unto the apostles, and nudged them, and commanded them that they should not speak in the name of JEsu, and sent them away. 41. And they departed gladly from the presence of the council, because they had been worthy to suffer reproach for his name's sake; 42. And ceased not all the days in the temple, and in every house, to teach and to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Acts) Chapter 6 Order of the almoners. The charge of Stephen. 1. Now in the days when the disciples were many, there arose a murmuring among the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were overlooked in the daily ministration. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples together, and said: It is not fit that we should forbear the word of God, and serve at meat. 3. Wherefore, brethren, look ye among you for seven men of good report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint unto this need. 4. But let us continue in prayer, and in the ministry of the word. 5. And the speech pleased all the multitude well, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus the Jew of Antioch. 6. These they set before the apostles, and prayed, and laid their hands on them. 7. And the word of God increased, and the number of the disciples became very great in Jerusalem. And many priests also became obedient to the faith. (Epistle on the second day of Christmas, or the day of Stephen the martyr.) 8. And Stephen, being full of faith and power, did wonders and great signs among the people. 9. Then arose certain of the school called the Libertines, and the Cyrenians, and the Alexanderians, and those that were of Cilicia and Asia, and consulted with Stephen. 10. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit whereby he spake. 11. Then judged they certain men, saying: We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God. 12. And moved the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came and took him, and brought him before the council; 13. And they set up false witnesses, saying: This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and against the law. 14. For we have heard him say, Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and change the customs which Moses gave us. 15. And they looked upon him, all they that sat in the council, and saw his face as the face of an angel. (Acts) Chapter 7 Stephen's sermon, torture and death. 1. And the high priest said, Is it so? 2. And he said, Brethren and fathers, hear me. God of glory appeared unto Abraham our father, while he was yet in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Haran, 3. And he said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy friendship, and go into a land which I will shew thee. 4. And he went out of the country of the Chaldeans, and dwelt in Haran. And from thence, when his father was dead, he brought him over into this land, wherein ye now dwell. 5. And he gave him no inheritance in it, neither a foot wide: and he promised him that he would give it to him to possess, and to his seed after him, when he had no child. 6. But God said thus, Thy seed shall be a stranger in a strange land, and they shall make him servant, and do evil four hundred years. 7. And the people whom they shall serve will I judge, said God; and afterward they shall go forth and serve me in this place. 8. And gave him the covenant of circumcision. And he begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day, and Isaac Jacob, and Jacob the twelve archfathers. 9. And the fathers envied Joseph, and sold him into Egypt. But God was with him 10. And delivered him out of all his affliction, and gave him grace and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt: and he made him ruler over Egypt, and over all his house. 11. And there came a time of trouble upon all the land of Egypt, and upon Canaan, and a great tribulation; and our fathers found no meat. 12. And Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, and sent forth our fathers the first time. 13. And the second time Joseph was known of his brethren, and Pharaoh Joseph's family was made manifest. 14. And Joseph sent and fetched Jacob his father, and all his company, seventy and five souls. 15. And Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he and our fathers. 16. And they were brought over to Shechem, and laid in the sepulchre which Abraham bought for money of the children of Hemor in Shechem. 17. And it came to pass, when the time of the promise which God sware unto Abraham was at hand, that the people increased and multiplied in Egypt, 18. Till another king arose, who knew nothing of Joseph. 19. This man deceived our kindred, and did evil to our fathers, and caused the young children to be cast down, that they should not live. 20. And Moses was born at that time, and was a goodly child in the sight of God, and was nourished in his father's house three months. 21. And when he was cast down, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and brought him up to be a son. 22. And Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in works and words. 23. And when he was forty years old, he considered to see his brethren the children of Israel, 24. And he saw one wronged. And he prevailed, and avenged him that was wronged, and slew the Egyptian. 25. And he thought that his brethren should hear, that by his hand God would give them salvation: but they heard it not. 26. And the next day he came to them, when they were at strife one with another, and dealt with them, that they might have peace, saying, Men, ye are brethren; why doth one wrong another? 27. And he that wronged his neighbour cast him away, saying, Who made thee ruler and judge over us? 28. Wilt thou kill me also, as thou killedst the Egyptian yesterday? 29. And Moses fled at this saying, and became a stranger in the land of Midian. And there he begat two sons. 30. And for forty years the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in the wilderness in mount Sinai in a flame of fire in a bush. 31. And when Moses saw it, he marvelled at the vision. And when he went to look, the voice of the LORD came unto him: 32. I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses trembled, and could not look. 33. And the LORD said unto him, Put off thy shoes from off thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground. 34. I have seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. Now therefore come hither, and I will send thee into Egypt. 35. This Moses, whom they denied, saying: Who made you a ruler and a judge? God sent him to be a ruler and a redeemer by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36. And he led them out, and did wonders and signs in Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years. 37. This is Moses, which said unto the children of Israel: A prophet shall the LORD your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me, and ye shall hear him. 38. This is he that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel that talked with him in mount Sinai, and with our fathers; who received the living word to give unto us; 39. Whom your fathers would not obey, but cast him away, and turned back their hearts into Egypt. 40. And they said unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for we know not what hath befallen this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt. 41. And they made a calf at that time, and offered sacrifices unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their hands. 42. But God turned, and gave them to serve the host of heaven: as it is written in the book of the prophet: Did ye of the house of Israel offer me sacrifices and cattle in the wilderness forty years? 43. And ye approached unto the tabernacle of Moloch, and unto the star of Remphan your god, even unto the images which ye had made to worship them: and I will cast you away beyond Babylon. 44. Our fathers had the tabernacle of the testimony in the wilderness, as he commanded them, when he spake unto Moses, that he should make it after the pattern which he had seen, 45. Which our fathers also received, and brought them with Joshua into the land which the heathen possessed, whom God cast out from before the face of our fathers unto the days of David. 46. And he found grace in the sight of God, and asked that he might find a tabernacle unto the God of Jacob. 47. But built him an house. 48. But the Most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands, as the prophet saith: 49. Heaven is my throne, and the earth my footstool: what house will ye build me, saith the LORD, or what is the place of my rest? 50. Did not my hand do all this? 51. Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye always resist the Holy Ghost, as your fathers did, so do ye. 22. Which prophet did not your fathers persecute, and slay them that proclaimed beforehand the future of that righteous man, whose betrayer and murderer ye are now become? 53. Ye have received the law by the business of angels, and have not kept it. 54. And when they heard these things, they were sore troubled, and gnashed their teeth at him. 55. And when he was full of the Holy Ghost, he looked up to heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, Behold, I see heaven open, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 56. And they cried with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and rushed in with one accord unto him, and thrust him out of the city, and stoned him. 57. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man whose name was Saul. 58. And they stoned Stephen, who cried out, saying, Lord JEsu, receive my spirit. 59. And he kneeled down, and cried aloud: Lord, do not keep this sin from them! And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (Acts) Chapter 8 The persecution of Saul. Conversion of the Samaritans. The trickery of Simon the sorcerer. Conversion of the chamberlain of Mohrenland. 1. And Saul was pleased with his death. And at that time there arose a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad in Judea and Samaria without the apostles. 2. And there buried Stephen, men that feared God, and made great lamentation over him. 3. And Saul destroyed the church, and went to and fro into the houses, and brought out men and women, and delivered them into prison. 4. They therefore which were scattered abroad went about preaching the word. 5. And Philip came down into a city of Samaria, and preached unto them of Christ. 6. And the people with one accord diligently heard what Philip said, and saw the signs which he did. 7. For the unclean spirits came out of many that were possessed with a great cry; and many that were sick of the palsy and lame were made whole. 8. And there was great joy in that city. 9. Now there was a man named Simon, which did sorcery before in the same city, and bewitched the Samaritan people, pretending that he was something great. 10. And they all looked upon him, both small and great, and said: This is the power of God, which is great. 11. And they looked upon him because he had long bewitched them with his magic. 12. And when they believed the preaching of Philip concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of JESUS Christ, both men and women were baptized. 13. Then Simon also believed, and was baptized, and stood by Philip. And when he saw the signs and the deeds that were done, he marvelled. (Epistle on Pentecost Tuesday.) 14. And when the apostles heard at Jerusalem that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John. 15. Which when they were come down, they prayed over them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost. 16. (For he was not yet fallen on any, but were baptized alone in the name of Christ JEsu.) 17. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost:] 18. And when Simon saw that the Holy Ghost was given when the apostles laid their hands on him, he offered them money. 19. Saying, Give me also power, that if I lay hands on any man, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 20. And Peter said unto him, That thou shouldest be condemned with thy money, that thou shouldest think that the gift of God is obtained by money. 21. Thou shalt not have any part nor any pleasure in this word: for thy heart is not righteous in the sight of God. 22. Therefore repent of this thy wickedness, and ask God whether the wickedness of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 23. For I see that thou art full of bitter gall, and bound up in iniquity. 24. And Simon answered and said, Pray ye the LORD for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken of come upon me. 25. And they, when they had testified and spoken the word of the LORD, returned again to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel to many Samaritan villages. 26. And the angel of the LORD spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south into the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desolate. 27. And he arose, and went his way. And, behold, a man of the land of Moor, an officer and ruler of the queen Candaze in the land of Moor, which was over all her treasures, came to Jerusalem to worship, 28. And he returned home, and sat in his chariot, and read the prophet Isaiah. 29. And the Spirit said unto Philip, Go thy way, and stand by this chariot. 30. Then Philip ran and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, Understandest thou also what thou readest? 31. And he said, How can I, except some man lead me? And exhorted Philip to stand, and sat with him. 32. And the content of the scripture which he read was this, He is as a sheep led to the slaughter, and is as a lamb before his shearer: so he hath not opened his mouth. 33. In his lowliness his judgment is taken away: but who shall speak out the length of his life? For his life is taken away from the earth. 34. Then Philip the eunuch answered and said: I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet these things, of himself, or of some other? 35. And Philip opened his mouth, and began from this scripture, and preached unto him the gospel of JEsu. 36. And as they went along by the way, they came to a water. And the eunuch said, Behold, there is water; what hindereth me to be baptized? 37. And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, it may be so. And he answered and said: I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38. And he commanded the chariot to stand still, and they went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch: and he baptized him. 39. And when they were come up out of the water, the spirit of the LORD departed from Philip, and the eunuch saw him no more: but he went on his way rejoicing. 40. And Philip was found in Ashdod, and went about preaching the gospel in all the cities, until he came. (Acts) Chapter 9 The conversion of Paul. The miraculous work of Peter, performed on Aneas and Tabea. (Epistle on the day of Paul's conversion.) 1. And Saul, while he yet spake against the disciples of the LORD, with threats and murders, went to the high priest. 2. And besought him to send letters to Damascus unto the synagogues, that, if he found any that way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3. And when he was in the way, and was come nigh unto Damascus, suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven. 4. And he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5. And he said, Lord, who art thou? And the LORD said: I am Jesus, whom thou persecutest. It shall be hard for thee to lick against the sting. 6. And he said with trembling and with fear, Lord, what wilt thou that I should do? And the LORD said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and they shall tell thee what thou shalt do. 7. And the men that were his companions stood still, and were troubled: for they heard a voice, and saw no man. 8. And Saul arose from the earth, and when he had opened his eyes, he saw no man. And they took him by the hand, and led him to Damascus. 9. And was three days without sight, and did neither eat nor drink. 10. And there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias, to whom the LORD said in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Here am I, O Lord. 11. And the LORD said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called the right way, and inquire in the house of Judas for Saul, whose name is Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth. 12. And he saw in a vision a man named Ananias come in unto him, and lay his hand upon him to restore his sight. 13. And Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard of many concerning this man, how much evil he hath done unto thy saints at Jerusalem. 14. And he hath power here from among the chief priests to bind all them that call upon thy name. 15. And the LORD said unto him, Go thy way: for this is my chosen armour, to bear my name before the heathen, and before kings, and before the children of Israel. 16. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name's sake. 17. And Ananias went and came into the house, and laid his hands upon him, and said, Brother Saul, the LORD hath sent me, which appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18. And straightway it fell from his eyes like scales, and he recovered his sight. 19. And arose, and was baptized, and took meat, and strengthened himself. And Saul was some days with the disciples at Damascus. 20. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he was the Son of God. 21. And they were all amazed when they heard it, and said: Is not this he that destroyeth all them at Jerusalem which call upon this name, and cometh hither to bring them bound unto the chief priests? 22. And Saul waxed stronger and stronger, and drove the Jews that dwelt at Damascus into a strait, and proved that this is the Christ]. 23. And after many days the Jews held a council together, that they might kill him. 24. But it was known unto Saul, that they pursued after him. And they watched at the gates day and night, that they might kill him. 25. Then the disciples took him by night, and put him through the wall, and let him down in a basket. 26. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he sought to join himself to the disciples: and they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27. And Barnabas took him, and brought him unto the apostles, and told them how he had seen the Lord in the street, and how he had talked with him, and how he had preached the name of Jesus freely at Damascus. 28. And he was with them, going out and coming in at Jerusalem, and preaching the name of the LORD JEsu freely. 29. He also spake and consulted with the Greeks: but they pursued after him, that they slew him. 30. And when the brethren heard of it, they led him to Caesarea, and sent him to Tarsus. 31. So the church had peace throughout all Judea, and Galilee, and Samaria, and was edified, and walked in the fear of the LORD, and was filled with the consolation of the Holy Ghost. 32. And it came to pass, as Peter passed through every place, that he came also unto the saints which dwelt at Lydda. 33. And there he found a man named Aneas, which had been eight years in the bed, and was sick of the palsy. 34. And Peter said unto him, Aenea, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and pray for thyself. And straightway he arose. 35. And all they that dwelt in Lydda and in Saron saw him, and turned unto the LORD. 36. Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabea, which is interpreted, She was full of good works and alms which she did. 37. And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died. So they washed her, and laid her in the upper room. 38. Now Lydda being near Joppa, when the disciples heard that Peter was there, they sent two men unto him, exhorting him that he would not neglect to come unto them. 39. And Peter arose, and came with them. And when he was come, they led him up into the upper chamber, and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing him the robes and garments which the deer made, when she was with them. 40. And when Peter had driven them all out, he kneeled down, and prayed, and turned to the body, and said, Tabea, arise. And she opened her eyes; and when she saw Peter, she sat down again. 41. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and called the saints and widows, and presented them alive. 42. And it was made known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the LORD. 43. And it came to pass, that he abode a long time in Joppa with one Simon, which was a tanner. (Acts) Chapter 10 Peter's sermon in the house of the centurion Cornelius. 1. Now there was a man in Caesarea named Cornelius, a centurion of the band which is called the Guelph, 2. Godly and fearing God with all his house, and giving much alms to the people, and praying always to GOD. 3. And he saw in a vision, as it were, about the ninth hour of the day, an angel of God coming in unto him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4. And he looked upon him, and was afraid, and said, Lord, what is it? And he said unto him, Thy prayer and thine alms are come up in remembrance before God. 5. And now send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter, 6. Which is lodged with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea; and he shall tell thee what thou shalt do. 7. And when the angel that talked with Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a godly soldier of them that waited upon him, 8. And he told them all, and sent them to Joppa. 9. And the next day, when they were in the way, and were come nigh unto the city, Peter went up into the high place to pray about the sixth hour. 10. And when he was hungry, he would have eaten. And when they had prepared for him, he was glad. 11. And he saw heaven opened, and a vessel descending unto him, as it were a large linen cloth, bound with four corners, and let down to the earth. 12. In them were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 13. And there came a voice unto him, saying, Arise, Peter, slay, and eat. 14. And Peter said, O no, Lord: for I have never eaten any thing common or unclean. 15. And the voice said unto him again, What God hath cleansed, make not thou common. 16. And this was done three times: and the vessel was taken up again into heaven. 17. And when Peter had inquired within himself what the vision was that he had seen, behold, the men which were sent by Cornelius inquired of Simon's house, and stood at the door, 18. And called and inquired whether Simon, whose surname was Peter, was there to lodging. 19. And when Peter had considered the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 20. But arise, go down, and go with them, and doubt nothing: for I have sent them. 21. Then Peter went down unto the men which were sent unto him by Cornelius, and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the matter wherefore ye are here? 22. And they said: Cornelius the centurion, a devout and godly man, and of good report among all the people of the Jews, hath received a commandment of the holy angel, that he should require thee to come into his house, and hear words of thee. 23. Then he called them in, and lodged them. And the next day Peter went out with them; and certain brethren of Joppa went with him. 24. And the next day they came to Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and called together his kinsmen and his friends. 25. And when Peter was come in, Cornelius went out to meet him, and fell at his feet, and worshipped him. 26. And Peter lifted him up, and said, Arise; I also am a man. 27. And when he had consulted with him, he went in, and found them many that were come together. 28. And he said unto them: Ye know how unusual a thing it is for a Jewish man to do, or to come to a stranger; but God hath shewed me not to call any man common or unclean. 29. Wherefore I refused not to come when I was called. Now therefore I ask you, why ye sent for me? 30. Cornelius said: I fasted four days until this hour, and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house. And, behold, a man stood before me in a bright garment. 31. And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are remembered before God. 32. Send therefore to Joppa, and call for a Simon, whose surname is Peter, which is lodged in the house of Simon the tanner by the sea; and he shall tell thee, when he cometh. 33. And I sent unto thee from that hour. And you have done well that you came. Now we are all here present before God, to hear all that is commanded you by God. (Epistle on Easter Monday.) 34. And Peter opened his mouth, and said, Now I know with a truth that God regardeth not the person, 35. But in all people, he that feareth him, and doeth righteousness, is acceptable unto him. 36. Ye know well the preaching which God sent unto the children of Israel, proclaiming peace through JESUS CHRIST (who is Lord over all), 37. Which was done throughout all the land of Judaea, beginning at Galilee, after the baptism which John preached: 38. As God anointed the same Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil: for God was with him. 39. And we are witnesses of all that he did in the land of Judah, and in Jerusalem. They have killed him, and hanged him on a tree. 40. The same God raised up the third day, and made him manifest, 41. not to all the people, but to us, the chosen witnesses of GOD, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead]. (Epistle on Pentecost Monday.) 42. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that he is ordained of GOD a judge of the quick and the dead. 43. Of whom all the prophets testify, that through his name all who believe in him shall receive forgiveness of sins. 44. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell upon all them that heard the word. 45. And the believers of the circumcision, which were come with Peter, were astonished, because the gift of the Holy Ghost was poured out upon the Gentiles also. 46. For they heard that they spake with tongues, and glorified God. Then Peter answered: 47. Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost, as we also have? 48. And commanded to baptize them in the name of the LORD]. And they besought him to tarry there some days. (Acts) Chapter 11 Peter's protective speech. Conversion of the Gentiles. Planting of the church at Antioch. 1. Now it came to pass, that the apostles and brethren which were in the land of Judaea, that the Gentiles also received the word of God. 2. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision quarreled with him, 3. And said: Thou wentest in unto the men that had foreskin, and didst eat with them. 4. And Peter began to tell them one by one, saying: 5. I was in the city of Joppa praying, and was delighted, and saw a vision, even a vessel descending like a great linen cloth with four corners, and coming down from heaven unto me. 6. And I looked therein, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 7. And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter, slay, and eat. 8. And I said, O no, O Lord: for there hath never entered into my mouth any foul or unclean thing. 9. But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, make not thou common. 10. And this was done three times; and all were drawn up again into heaven. 11. And, behold, from that hour there stood three men before the house where I was, sent unto me from Caesarea. 12. And the Spirit said unto me, I should go with them, and not doubt. And there came with me these six brethren, and we went into the man's house. 13. And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, saying unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14. He shall speak words unto thee, that thou mayest be saved, and all thy house. 15. And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell upon them, as upon us at the first. 16. Then remembered I the word of the LORD, when he said, John baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17. If therefore God hath given them the same gifts as He hath given us, who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could gainsay God? 18. And when they heard it, they held their peace, and praised God, saying, Thus hath God also given repentance unto the Gentiles unto life. 19. And they that were scattered abroad in the tribulation that arose against Stephen went about as far as Phoenicia, and Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to none but to the Jews only. 20. And there were certain of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which came to Antioch, and spake also unto the Greeks, preaching the gospel of the LORD JEsu. 21. And the hand of the LORD was with them, and a great number believed, and turned unto the LORD. 22. And these sayings of theirs came to the ears of the church which was at Jerusalem: and they sent Barnabas to go as far as Antioch, 23. Which when he was come, and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and exhorted them all to cleave unto the LORD with a steadfast heart. 24. For he was a devout man, full of the Holy Ghost and of faith. And there was a great people devoted unto the LORD. 25. And Barnabas went out to Tarsus to seek Saul again. 26. And when he had found him, he led him to Antioch. And they abode with the church a whole year, teaching much people: wherefore the disciples were called Christians at the first in Antioch. 27. In those days there came prophets from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28. And one of them, named Agabus, arose and foretold by the Spirit a great plague which was to come upon the whole world, which took place in the reign of Claudius the emperor. 29. But among the disciples every man, as soon as he was able, determined to send a hand to the brethren which dwelt in Judaea; 30. As they did, and sent it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul. (Acts) Chapter 12 The martyrdom of James. Deliverance of Peter: Herod's downfall. (Epistle to the days of Peter and Paul.) 1. About the same time Herod the king laid hands on some of the congregation to chastise them. 2. And he slew James the brother of John with the sword. 3. And when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he went on, and caught Peter also. Now these were the days of sweet bread. 4. And when he had taken him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quarters of soldiers to keep him, intending to present him to the people after the feast. 5. And Peter was kept in prison, but the church prayed to God for him without ceasing. 6. And when Herod was about to present him, that night Peter slept between two soldiers bound with two chains; and the keepers of the door kept the prison. 7. And, behold, the angel of the LORD came, and a light shined in the chamber, and smote Peter on the side, and awoke him, saying, Arise quickly. And the chains fell from his hands. 8. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and put on thy shoes. And he did so. And he said unto him, Cast thy cloak about thee, and follow me. 9. And he went out, and followed him, and knew not that these things were truly done unto him by the angel; but it seemed unto him that he saw a vision. 10. And they passed through the first and second ward, and came to the iron door that leadeth into the city, which opened of itself unto them. And they went out, and walked along the street: and straightway the angel departed from him. 11. And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now verily I know that the LORD hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the waiting of the people of the Jews]. 12. And when he had considered, he came into the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. 13. And when Peter knocked at the door of the gate, there came forth a maid to hear, named Rhode. 14. And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for joy, but ran in, and told them that Peter stood at the gate. 15. And they said unto her, Thou art foolish. But she insisted it was so. They said: It is his angel. 16. And Peter knocked again. And when they opened, they saw him, and were amazed. 17. And he beckoned them with his hand to hold their peace, and told them how the LORD had brought him out of prison, saying, Declare this unto James and the brethren. And he went out, and departed into another place. 18. And when it was day, there was not the least anxiety among the soldiers, how Peter might have fared. 19. And Herod, when he had required him, and found him not, justified the keepers, and commanded them to be carried away, and went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and kept his company there. 20. For he was minded to war against the men of Tyre and Sidon. And they came unto him with one accord, and persuaded the king's chamberlain Blastus, and asked peace, that their lands might feed upon the king's land. 21. But on a certain day Herod put on the royal robe, and sat on the judgment seat, and made a speech to them. 22. And the people cried out, saying, This is the voice of God, and not of man. 23. Immediately the angel of the LORD smote him, because he gave not the glory to God; and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. 24. But the word of God increased and multiplied. 25. And Barnabas and Saul came again to Jerusalem, and delivered up the hand, taking with them John, whose surname was Mark. (Acts) Chapter 13 Paul's first journey to the Gentiles, and what he did among them. 1. Now there were in Antioch prophets and teachers in the church, namely, Barnabas, and Simon called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manahen, brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2. And as they were ministering unto the Lord, and fasting, the Holy Ghost said, Send me forth Barnabas and Saul unto the work whereunto I have called them. 3. Then they fasted, and prayed, and laid hands on them, and let them go. 4. And when they were sent forth by the Holy Ghost, they came to Seleucia, and from thence they toiled to Cyprus. 5. And when they were come into the city of Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had John also to minister unto them. 6. And as they passed through the island unto the city of Paphos, they found a sorcerer and a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jehu. 7. He was with Sergius Paul the governor, a man of understanding. The same called Barnabas and Saul unto him, and desired to hear the word of God. 8. Then Elymas the sorcerer (for so his name is interpreted) stood against them, and sought to turn the governor from the faith. 9. And Saul, who is also called Paul, full of the Holy Ghost, looked upon him. 10. And said, O thou child of the devil, full of all guile and cunning, and enemy to all righteousness! Thou ceasest not to turn aside the right ways of the LORD. 11. And now, behold, the hand of the LORD cometh upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, and shalt not see the sun for a season. And from that hour darkness and gloom fell upon him: and he went about seeking the ladder of hands. 12. When the governor saw the story, he believed, and marvelled at the doctrine of the LORD. 13. And when Paul and they that were about him were shipped from Paphos, they came to Perge in the land of Pamphylia. But John departed from them, and went again to Jerusalem. 14. And they passed through from Perge, and came to Antioch in the land of Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. 15. And after the lesson of the law and of the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Brethren, if ye will speak any thing, and exhort the people, tell them 16. Then Paul stood up, and beckoned with his hand, and said: Ye men of Israel, and ye that fear God, hear me. 17. The God of this people hath chosen our fathers, and hath lifted up the people, when they were strangers in the land of Egypt; and with a high arm brought they out of the same. 18. And for forty years he tolerated their ways in the wilderness. 19. And he destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, and divided among them according to the lot of those countries. 20. And after that he gave them judges four hundred and fifty years, except Samuel the prophet. 21. And from that time they asked for a king. And God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the family of Benjamin, forty years. 22. And when he had put him away, he raised up David king over them, of whom he testified: I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who shall do all my will. 23. Of this seed hath God, as he promised, begotten JESUS a Saviour unto the people of Israel, 24. When John before began to preach the baptism of repentance unto the people of Israel. 25. And when John had run his course, he said, I am not he whom ye think me to be: but, behold, he cometh after me, of whom I am not worthy to loose the shoes of his feet. (Epistle on Easter Tuesday.) 26. Ye men, brethren, children of the seed of Abraham, and them that fear God among you, unto you is sent the word of this salvation. 27. For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, not knowing this, nor the voice of the prophets (which are read every sabbath day), have filled them with their judgment. 28. And though they found no cause of death in him, yet they besought Pilate to put him to death. 29. And when they had finished all that was written of him, they took him down from the wood, and laid him in a sepulchre. 30. But God raised him from the dead. 31. And he appeared many days unto them that went up with him from Galilee unto Jerusalem, which are his witnesses unto the people. 32. And we also declare unto you the promise which was made unto our fathers, 33. That the same God hath fulfilled us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus;] as it is written in another psalm, Thou art my Son: this day have I begotten thee. 34. And when he hath raised him from the dead, that he should no more perish, thus saith he: I will faithfully keep the grace promised to David. 35. Therefore saith he also in the other place, Thou wilt not suffer thy saint to see corruption. 36. For David, when he had served the will of God in his days, fell asleep, and joined his fathers, and saw corruption. 37. But whom God hath raised up, he hath not seen corruption. 38. Be it known unto you therefore, brethren, that there is preached unto you remission of sins by this, and of all things, whereby ye could not be justified in the law of Moses. 39. But he that believeth on him is righteous. 40. Take heed therefore that those things which are spoken in the prophets come not upon you: 41. Behold, ye despisers, and marvel, and be confounded: for I do a work in your days, which ye shall not believe, if any man tell you. 42. And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought them to speak unto them between the sabbaths. 43. And when the church of the synagogue was departed from one another, there followed after Paul and Barnabas many Jews, and the godly of the Jews. And they saw them, and exhorted them to abide in the grace of God. 44. And on the next sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. 45. And when the Jews saw the people, they were filled with envy, and contradicted the things which were spoken by Paul, and contradicted and blasphemed. 46. And Paul and Barnabas said openly, Ye had first to be told the word of God: but now ye cast it from you, and consider yourselves not worthy of eternal life, behold, we turn unto the Gentiles. 47. For thus hath the LORD commanded us: I have set thee for a light unto the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be salvation unto the ends of the earth. 48. And when the Gentiles heard it, they were glad, and glorified the word of the LORD, and believed how many were ordained unto eternal life. 49. And the word of the LORD was spread abroad through all that region. 50. But the Jews moved the devout and honourable women, and the rulers of the city, and stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and cast them out of their borders. 51. And they shook the dust off their feet upon them, and came to Iconium. 52. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Ghost. (Acts) Chapter 14 Paul's return to Antioch, and what happened on the way. 1. And it came to pass in Iconium, that they came together, and preached in the synagogue of the Jews; so that a great multitude of the Jews and of the Greeks believed. 2. And the unbelieving Jews stirred up and provoked the souls of the Gentiles against the brethren. 3. So then they had their being there a long time, and taught freely in the LORD, who testified of the word of his grace, and wrought signs and wonders by their hands. 4. And the multitude of the city was divided, some with the Jews, and some with the apostles. 5. And when there arose a tempest of the Gentiles, and of the Jews, and of their rulers, to revile them, and to stone them, 6. And they perceived it, and fled into the cities of the land of Lycaonia, to Lystra and Derbe, and into the country round about. 7. And preached the gospel there. 8. And there was a man in Lystra, which had to sit: for he had evil feet, and was lame from his mother's womb, and had never walked. 9. And he heard Paul speak. And when he looked at him, and saw that he thought he was to be helped, 10. And he said with a loud voice, Arise uprightly upon thy feet. And he sprang up, and walked. 11. And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voice, and said in Lycaon, The gods are become like unto men, and are come down unto us. 12. And they called Barnabas Jupiter, and Paul Mercurius, because he spake the word. 13. And the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gate, and would have sacrificed with the people. 14. And when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard it, they rent their clothes, and leaped among the people, crying out 15. And said: Ye men, what do ye? We also are mortal men like unto you, and preach unto you the gospel, that ye should be converted from that which is false unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that is therein; 16. Who in times past made all the heathen walk in their own ways. 17. For he hath not left himself unproved, hath done us much good, hath given us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, hath filled our hearts with food and gladness. 18. And when they had said these things, they hardly quieted the people, that they sacrificed not unto them. 19. And there came Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and persuaded the people, and stoned Paul, and dragged him out of the city, thinking that he was dead. 20. And when the disciples compassed him about, he arose, and went into the city. And the next day he went out with Barnabas to Derbe. 21. And preached the gospel to that city, and instructed them much, and went again to Lystra, and Iconium, and Antioch, 22. Strengthened the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that through much tribulation we must enter into the kingdom of God. 23. And they ordained them elders in the churches, praying and fasting, and commending them unto the LORD, in whom they believed. 24. And they passed through Pisidia, and came into Pamphylia. 25. And they spake the word in Perge, and went down to Attalia. 26. And from thence they toiled to Antioch, from whence they were ordained by the grace of God to the work which they had set forth. 27. And when they were come, they gathered the church together, and declared how much God had done for them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. 28. But they had not their being there a little while with the disciples. (Acts) Chapter 15 Council of the Apostles concerning circumcision and justification. 1. And certain came down from Judea, and taught the brethren, saying, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2. And when there was a tumult, and Paul and Barnabas had no small quarrel with them, they commanded that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders for this question. 3. And they were led by the church, and went through Phoenicia and Samaria, and told the manner of the Gentiles, and made all the brethren great joy. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles, and of the elders. And they declared how much God had done for them. 5. And there arose certain of the sect of the Pharisees that believed, and said: They must be circumcised, and commanded to keep the law of Moses. 6. But the apostles and elders came together to consider this speech. 7. And when they had long contended, Peter arose, and said unto them: Men, brethren, ye know that God hath long before this time shewed among us that by my mouth the Gentiles heard the word of the gospel, and believed. 8. And God, the Saviour of hearts, testified against them, and gave them the Holy Spirit, even as He gave us. 9. And made no distinction between us and them, and purified their hearts by faith. 10. Why then do ye tempt God by putting a yoke upon the necks of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? 11. But we believe that by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved even as they. 12. Then all the multitude held their peace, and hearkened unto Paul and Barnabas, which told how great signs and wonders God had done by them among the Gentiles. 13. After this, when they had held their peace, James answered and said: Ye men, brethren, hear me. 14. Simon hath told how at the first God visited and accepted a people out of the Gentiles unto his name. 15. And the words of the prophets are according to that which is written: 16. And afterward I will come again, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is broken down, and the breaches thereof will I build again, and will raise it up. 17. That whatsoever is left of men may inquire of the LORD, and of all the heathen concerning whom my name is called, saith the LORD that doeth all these things. 18. God is aware of all His works from the world. 19. Therefore I decree that they which turn unto God from among the heathen be not troubled, 20. But write unto them, that they abstain from uncleanness of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. 21. For Moses hath of old time been preached in all the cities that preach him, and is read every sabbath day in the synagogues: 22. And it seemed good unto the apostles and elders, and to all the church, to choose of them men, and to send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, even Judas, whose surname was Barsabas, and Silas, which men were teachers among the brethren. 23. And they gave writing in their hand, saying, We the apostles, and elders, and brethren, wish salvation unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles, which are in Antioch, and Syria, and Cilicia. 24. Because we have heard that some of our own have gone out, and have deceived you with doctrines, and have destroyed your souls, saying that ye ought to be circumcised, and to keep the law, which we have not commanded. 25. It hath seemed good unto us, gathered together with one accord, to choose men, and to send them unto you with our beloved; Barnabas and Paul, 26. Which men have offered up their souls for the name of our Lord JEsu Christ. 27. Thus have we sent Judas and Silas, who also shall declare the same things with words. 28. For it pleaseth the Holy Ghost, and us, to lay no more burden upon you, but these necessary things, 29. That ye abstain from things sacrificed unto idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which, if ye abstain, ye do well. Fare ye well. 30. And when these were finished, they came to Antioch, and gathered the multitude together, and delivered the letter. 31. And when they read it, they were glad of comfort. 32. And Judas and Silas, which were also prophets, exhorted the brethren with many sayings, and strengthened them. 33. And when they had passed away for a season, they were sent away in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. 34. And it pleased Silas to tarry there. 35. And Paul and Barnabas had their being at Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the LORD with many others. 36. And after some days Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again, and see our brethren through all the cities wherein we have preached the word of the LORD, how they keep themselves. 37. And Barnabas gave counsel that they should take with them John, whose surname was Mark. 38. But Paul saw fit that they should not take with them such a one as departed from them in Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. 39. And they came together sharply, so that they departed from one another: and Barnabas took Mark, and sailed to Cyprus. 40. And Paul chose Silas, and went, commanded of the brethren by the grace of God. 41. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, and strengthened the churches. (Acts) Chapter 16 Paul's execution and suffering in Lystra, Asia and Bithynia, Troas and Philippi. 1. And he came to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, there was there a disciple named Timotheus, the son of a Jewess, which believed, but of a Greek father. 2. Who had a good report among the brethren of the Lystrans, and of Iconium. 3. And Paul, willing to let him go with him, took him, and circumcised him, for the Jews' sakes, which were in the same place: for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4. And as they passed through the cities, they charged them to keep the sentence which was decreed by the apostles and elders at Jerusalem. 5. Then the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily. 6. And as they passed through Phrygia and the country of Galatia, they were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to speak the word in Asia. 7. And when they were come to Mysia, they sought to pass through Bithynia; and the Spirit suffered them not. 8. And when they were passed by Mysia, they came down to Troas. 9. And there appeared unto Paul a vision by night, a man of Macedonia standing, and beseeching him, saying, Come down into Macedonia, and help us. 10. And when he had seen the vision, we sought immediately to go into Macedonia, assuredly that the Lord had called us thither to preach the gospel unto them. 11. So we departed from Troas, and straightway we came to Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis. 12. And thence to Philippi, which is the capital of the land of Macedonia, and a free city. And we dwelt in that city some days. 13. And it came to pass on the sabbath day, that we went out of the city unto the waters where they worshipped, and sat down, and spake unto the women that were gathered together. 14. And a godly woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, was listening; to whom the Lord opened her heart, that she might give heed to the things which were spoken of Paul. 15. And when she and her house were baptized, she exhorted us, saying, If ye esteem me a believer in the LORD, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us. 16. And it came to pass, as we went to the prayer, that a certain maid met us, which had a spirit of divination, and did much pleasure to her masters in divination. 17. These followed Paul and us everywhere, crying out and saying, These men are servants of GOD, the Most High, who proclaim to you the way of salvation. 18. And she did so many days. But Paul was pained at this, and turned and said unto the spirit: I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ, that thou depart from her. And he departed at that very hour. 19. And when their lords saw that the hope of their enjoyment was gone, they took Paul and Silas, and brought them into the market before the rulers. 20. And they brought them unto the captains, and said: These men make our city mad, and are Jews 21. Proclaiming a manner which it behooveth us not to receive nor to do, because we are Romans. 22. And the people were aroused against them. And the captains rent them their clothes, and beat them. 23. And when they had beheaded them, they cast them into prison, and commanded the keeper of the prison that he should keep them safe. 24. And he accepted such a commandment, and cast them into the innermost prison, and put their feet into the stocks. 25. And about midnight Paul and Silas prayed, praising God. And they heard the prisoners. 26. And quickly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And from that time all the doors were opened, and all the bands were loosed. 27. And when the jailer arose out of sleep, and saw the doors of the prison opened, he drew out his sword, and would have slain himself: for he thought that the prisoners had escaped. 28. And Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thee no harm: for we are all here. 29. And he asked for a light, and leaped in, and trembled, and fell at the feet of Paul and Silas. 30. And brought them forth, and said, Sirs, what shall I do to be saved? 31. And they said. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, thou and thy house. 32. And they told him the word of the LORD, and all that were in his house. 33. And he took them unto him in that hour of the night, and washed their sores; and he was baptized, and all his own immediately. 34. And he brought them into his house, and set them a table, and rejoiced with all his house that he had believed in GOD. 35. And when it was day, the captains of the cities sent servants, saying: Let the people go. 36. And the keeper of the prison declared these words unto Paul, saying, The captains have sent to loose you. Now therefore go forth, and depart in peace. 37. And Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly without judgment, being Romans, and have cast us into prison, and now shall they cast us out privily? Not so; but let them come themselves, and bring us out. 38. And the servants of the city told these words unto the captains: and they were afraid, because they heard that they were Romans, 39. And came and exhorted them, and brought them out, and besought them to go out of the city. 40. And they went out of the prison, and went to Lydia. And when they had seen the brethren, and were comforted, they departed. (Acts) Chapter 17 Paul's execution and repugnance in Thessalonica, Berea and Athens. 1. And as they journeyed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica. There was a school of the Jews. 2. After Paul therefore was accustomed, he went in unto them, and spake unto them of the scriptures three sabbaths, 3. And opened it unto them, and set it before them, that Christ must suffer, and rise again from the dead: and that this JEsus, whom I declare unto you, is the Christ. 4. And some of them fell to him, and joined themselves to Paul and Silas, and to the godly Greeks a great multitude, and to the chief women not a few. 5. But the stiff-necked Jews envied, and took unto themselves certain wicked men of the rabble, and made a mob, and made a disturbance in the city, and came before the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out among the common people. 6. And when they found them not, they dragged Jason and certain brethren before the rulers of the city, crying out, These also that stir up the whole world are come hither; 7. Whom Jason hath sent for: and all these do contrary to Caesar's commandment, saying that another is king, even Jesus. 8. And they moved the people, and the rulers of the city, which heard these things. 9. And when they had received account from Jason and the rest, they let them go. 10. And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea. And when they were come thither, they entered into the synagogue of the Jews. 11. For they were the noblest of them that were in Thessalonica, which received the word very willingly, and searched the scriptures daily, whether it were so. 12. So then many of them believed, even of the respectable women and men of Greece not a few. 13. And when the Jews which were in Thessalonica heard that the word of God was preached of Paul also in Berea, they came and stirred up the people there also. 14. And the brethren immediately sent Paul away, that he might go unto the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there. 15. And they that led Paul led him as far as Athens. And when they had received commandment unto Silas and Timotheus, that they should come to him at the earliest, they departed. 16. And as Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was enraged within him, when he saw the city so utterly idolatrous. 17. And he spake unto the Jews and to the godly in the synagogue, and also in the market every day unto them that came near. 18. And some of the Epicureans and Stoic philosophers quarreled with him; and some said: What meaneth this fool? But some said, It seemeth as if he would preach new gods. So he had preached the gospel of Jesus and the resurrection to them. 19. And they took him, and led him into the judgment seat, and said: Can we also know what is this new doctrine which thou teachest? 20. For thou bringest a new thing before our ears: we would gladly know what it is. 21. But all the Athenians, even the foreigners and the sojourners, were intent on nothing else, but to say or to hear something new. 22. And Paul stood in the midst of the judgment seat, and said: Ye men of Athens, I see that ye are in all things too superstitious. 23. I passed through, and saw your worship, and found an altar written thereon: To the unknown God. Now I declare unto you the same, whom ye worship ignorantly. 24. God, which made the world, and all that is in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands. 25. Neither is he cared for by the hands of men, as needing any man, when he himself giveth life and breath to all men everywhere. 26. And hath made of one blood of all people kindreds to dwell upon all the face of the earth, and hath appointed a purpose beforehand, how long and how far they shall dwell, 27. That they should seek the Lord, if they might feel him, and find him. And he is not far from any of us; 28. For in him we live, and weave, and are; as also some poets have said among you: We are of his seed. 29. If we then be of the divine generation, let us not think that the Godhead is like unto graven images, and silver images, and images of stone, made with the thoughts of men. 30. And indeed God overlooked the time of ignorance; but now He gives all men in all places to repent, 31. Because he hath appointed a day in the which he will judge the world with righteousness by one man, in whom he hath ordained it, holding forth faith to every man, when he hath raised him from the dead. 32. When they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some had it in derision: but some said: We will hear thee further of it. 33. So Paul departed from them. 34. And certain men adhered to him, and believed: among whom was Dionysius, one of the council, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them. (Acts) Chapter 18 Paul at Corinth and on the journey to Antioch. Apollos to Ephesus. 1. After this Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth. 2. And found a certain Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had lately come from the Welsh country, with his wife Priscilla; because Claudius the emperor had commanded all the Jews to depart out of Rome. 3. And he went in unto them; and being of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: but they were carpetmakers of the same craft. 4. And he taught in the synagogue all the sabbaths, and communed both Jews and Greeks. 5. And when Silas and Timotheus were come out of Macedonia, the Spirit pressed upon Paul to testify unto the Jews that he was the Christ. 6. And when they had rebelled and blasphemed, he shook off their garments, and said unto them: Your blood be upon your head! I go henceforth pure unto the Gentiles. 7. And he departed from thence, and came to a house of one named Just, which feared God: and the house of that man was first at the synagogue. 8. And Crispus, the chief of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house: and many of the Corinthians which heard believed, and were baptized. 9. And the LORD said unto Paul by a vision in the night, Fear not; but speak not, neither hold thy peace. 10. For I am with thee, and no man shall think to hurt thee: for I have a great people in this city. 11. And he sat there a year and six months, and taught them the word of God. 12. And when Gallion was governor in Achaia, the Jews rose up with one accord against Paul, and brought him before the judgment seat. 13. and said: This one persuades people to serve God contrary to the law. 14. And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallion said unto the Jews, If it be an outrage or a mischief, O Jews, I hear you aright; 15. But because it is a question of doctrine, and of words, and of law among you, ye see for yourselves: I will not be a judge of it. 16. And drove them from the judgment seat. 17. Then all the Greeks took hold of Sostenes, the chief of the school, and smote him before the judgment seat: and Gallion took not. 18. And Paul tarried there a long time. And afterward he took his leave with the brethren, and would have sailed into Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila with him. And he shaved his head at Kenchrea: for he had a vow. 19. And came down to Ephesus, and left them there. And he went into the synagogue, and talked with the Jews. 20. And they besought him that he would tarry with them a longer time. And he consented not, 21. But made his departure with them, and said: I must keep the feast that is to come at Jerusalem; if God wills it, I will come to you again. And he departed from Ephesus. 22. And came to Caesarea, and went up, and greeted the church, and went down to Antioch. 23. And he tarried some time, and journeyed, and went through Galatia and Phrygia one after another, strengthening all the disciples. 24. And there came to Ephesus a certain Jew named Apollos, of the birth of Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the Scriptures. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the LORD, and spake with a fervent spirit, and taught diligently of the LORD, knowing only the baptism of John. 26. And he began to preach freely in the synagogue. But when Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him and taught him the way of God even more diligently. 27. And when he was about to go to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him. And when he was come, he helped them much that believed by grace. 28. For he overcame the Jews continually, and proved publicly by the scriptures that JESUS was the Christ. (Acts) Chapter 19 Paul's execution at Ephesus. 1. And it came to pass, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul went through the upper countries, and came to Ephesus, and found some disciples. 2. To whom said he, Have ye received the Holy Ghost, when ye believed? And they said unto him, Neither have we heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3. And he said unto them: Into what then were ye baptized? They said: In the baptism of John. 4. And Paul said, John baptized with the baptism of repentance, and told the people that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on JESUS, that he was the Christ. 5. And when they heard it, they were baptized in the name of the LORD JEsu. 6. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came upon them, speaking with tongues, and prophesying. 7. And all the men were about twelve. 8. And he went into the synagogue, and preached freely three months, teaching and persuading them of the kingdom of God. 9. And when some were hardened, and believed not, and spake evil of the way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, and spake daily in the synagogue of one called Tyrannus. 10. And these things were two years: so that all they that dwelt in Asia heard the word of JESUS the LORD, both Jews and Greeks. 11. And God wrought no small deeds by the hands of Paul, 12. So that of his skin also they put sweatcloths and boils upon the sick, and the pestilences departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them. 13. And certain of the Jews that were about, being conjurors, refrained from calling the name of JESUS the LORD upon them that had evil spirits, saying: We adjure you by Jesus, whom Paul preacheth. 14. And there were seven sons of a certain Jew, Skeva the high priest, which did these things. 15. But the evil spirit answered and said, I know JEsum, and I know Paul: but who are ye? 16. And the man in whom was the evil spirit leaped upon them, and had power over them, and cast them under him: so that they fled out of the same house naked and wounded. 17. And these things were made known unto all them that dwelt at Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks: and fear fell upon them all, and the name of the LORD JEsu was magnified. 18. There came also many of them that believed, and confessed and declared the things which they had wrought. 19. And many of them that had wrought a rash art gathered the books together, and burned them publicly, and reckoned the value thereof, and found fifty thousand pennies. 20. So mightily grew the word of the LORD, and prevailed. 21. When this was accomplished, Paul purposed in his mind to go through Macedonia and Achaia, and to walk toward Jerusalem, saying, After that, when I have been there, I must see Rome also. 22. And sent two to minister unto him, Timotheus and Erastus. Timotheus and Erastus, into Macedonia: but he tarried a while in Asia. 23. But about the same time there arose a not small movement over this way. 24. For one named Demetrius, a goldsmith, made temples of silver unto Diana, and made no small gain for them of the craft. 25. These he gathered together, and the assistants of the same craft, and said, Men, ye know that we have great access of this trade. 26. And ye see and hear, that not only in Ephesus, but also almost throughout all Asia, this Paul maketh many people foolish, persuading, saying, There are no gods made with hands. 27. Not only will our commerce come to nothing, but also the temple of the great goddess Diana will be esteemed as nothing, and her majesty will perish, to whom all Asia and the world worship. 28. And when they heard it, they were filled with wrath, and cried out, saying: Great is the Diana of the Ephesians! 29. And the whole city was filled with tumult. And they rushed with one accord to the scene, and seized Gaius and Aristarchus of Macedonia, Paul's companions. 30. But when Paul desired to go among the people, the disciples would not suffer him. 31. Some also of the rulers of Asia, which were good friends to Paul, sent unto him, exhorting him that he go not into the scene. 32. Some cried out so, and some another; and the church was astray, and most of them knew not why they were gathered together. 33. And some of the people drew Alexander forth, when the Jews thrust him out. But Alexander waved his hand, and would answer for himself before the people. 34. And when they knew that he was a Jew, there arose a voice from all, and cried out at two hours: Great is Diana of the Ephesians! 35. And when the chancellor had quieted the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not that the city of Ephesus is the nurse of the great goddess Diana, and of the heavenly image? 36. Forasmuch then as these things are irrefragable, ye shall be quiet, and do nothing rash. 37. you have brought these people here who are neither robbers of the church nor blasphemers of your goddess. 38. And if Demetrius, and they that are with him of the craft, have any claim against any man, then there shall be judgment, and there shall be governors: let them sue one another. 39. But if ye would do otherwise, it may be done in a proper church. 40. For we are in danger of being accused for this present outrage, and yet there is no cause to excuse us for this outrage. And when he had said these things, he sent the congregation away. (Acts) Chapter 20 Paul's journey to Troas and Miletus, and what he did there. 1. When the uproar was ceased, Paul called the disciples unto him, and blessed them, and departed to go into Macedonia. 2. And when he had passed through these countries, and had exhorted them with many words, he came into Greece, and tarried there three months. 3. And when the Jews pursued him, as he was going into Syria, he was advised to turn again by the way of Macedonia. 4. And there went with him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of Thessalonica Aristarchus, and Secondus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and out of Asia Tychicus and Trophimus. 5. These went on before, and harried us at Troas. 6. And we sailed from Philippi after the days of the passover unto the fifth day, and came unto them to Troas, and had our being there seven days. 7. Now on a sabbath day, when the disciples were come together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, and would have departed the next day, delaying the word until midnight. 8. And there were many torches in the upper chamber, when they were gathered together. 9. And there sat a certain young man named Eutychus in a window, and fell into a deep sleep, because Paul spake so long: and he was overcome with sleep, and fell down from the third storey, and was taken up dead. 10. And Paul went down, and fell upon him, and compassed him about, saying, Make no tumult: for his soul is in him. 11. And he went up, and brake bread, and did eat, and talked much with them, until the day dawned: and so he departed. 12. And they brought the lad alive, and were not a little comforted. 13. And we went forward in the ship, and sailed to Assos, and there would take Paul with us: for he had so commanded, and would go on foot. 14. And when he smote us at Assos, we took him, and came to Mitylene. 15. And from thence we sailed, and came the next day to Chios; and the next day we came to Samos, and stayed at Trogyllion; and the next day we came to Miletus. 16. For Paul had determined to pass by Ephesus, that he should not spend time in Asia: for he hasted to be at Jerusalem for the day of Pentecost, if it were possible for him. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, calling for the elders of the church. 18. And when they were come to him, he said unto them. Ye have known since the first day that I came into Asia, how that I have always been with you. 19. And served the LORD with all humility, and with many tears and temptations, which happened unto me of the Jews that followed me; 20. As I have not behaved any thing that is profitable, except I have preached unto you, and have taught you publicly and specially. 21. And have testified both to the Jews and to the Greeks of repentance toward God, and of faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 22. And now, behold, I, being bound in the spirit, go unto Jerusalem, not knowing what shall befall me there, 23. Without the Holy Ghost testifying in every city, saying, Trouble and anguish wait for me there. 24. But I regard none: neither do I count my life dear unto myself, that I may finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the LORD JEsu, to testify of the gospel of the grace of GOD. 25. And now, behold, I know that ye shall see my face no more, all they through whom I passed, preaching the kingdom of God. 26. Therefore I testify unto you this day, that I am clean from all blood; 27. For I have not behaved unto you, that I have not declared all the counsel of God. 28. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and unto all the flock, among whom the Holy Ghost hath made you bishops, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased by his own blood. 29. For this I know, that after my departure there shall come among you grievous wolves, which shall not spare the flock. 30. Even from among yourselves shall arise men speaking perverse doctrines, to draw the disciples unto themselves. 31. Wherefore be ye valiant, and remember that I have not ceased three years to warn every man with tears day and night. 32. And now, brethren, I commend you to GOD, and to the word of his grace, which is mighty to establish you, and to give you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified. 33. I have not desired your silver, nor your gold, nor your raiment. 34. For ye yourselves know that these hands have ministered unto me for my need, and for them that were with me. 35. I have shewed you all things, that it is necessary to work, and to receive the weak, and to remember the word of JESUS the LORD, which he spake: It is more blessed to give than to receive. 36. And when he had said these things, he kneeled down and prayed with them all. 37. And there was much weeping among them all, and they fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, 38. Most grieved at the word which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And escorted him into the ship. (Acts) Chapter 21 Paul's journey from Miletus to Jerusalem, and what he did and endured there. 1. And it came to pass, when we were turned from them, that we came running straightway to Kos, and the next day to Rhodus, and thence to Patara. 2. And when we found a ship going to Phoenicia, we got into it, and went. 3. And when we saw Cyprus, we left her on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and arrived at Tyre: for there the ship was to lay up the merchandise. 4. And when we had found disciples, we abode there seven days. And they told Paul by the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. 5. And it came to pass, when we had spent the days, that we went out and walked. And they escorted us all, with wives and children, unto the uttermost part of the city, and kneeled down by the riverside, and prayed. 6. And when we had blessed one another, we entered into the ship: but they turned again to their own. 7. And we took ship from Tyre, and came to Ptolemais, and greeted the brethren, and abode with them one day. 8. And the next day we that were about Paul departed, and came to Caesarea, and entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven, and abode with him. 9. The same had four daughters, which were virgins, and prophesied. 10. And it came to pass, as we tarried more days, that a prophet came down from Judaea, named Agabus, and came unto us. 11. And he took Paul's girdle, and bound his hands and his feet, and said, These things saith the Holy Ghost: The man whose girdle is this shall the Jews bind at Jerusalem, and deliver into the hands of the Gentiles. 12. And when we heard these things, we besought him, and they that were of the same place, that he would not go up to Jerusalem. 13. And Paul answered, Why do ye weep, and break my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. 14. But when he would not be persuaded, we held our peace, and said: The will of the LORD be done. 15. And after those days we removed, and went up to Jerusalem. 16. And there came with us also certain disciples from Caesarea, and brought us unto one named Mnason, of Cyprus, which was an old disciple, with whom we lodged. 17. And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 18. And the next day Paul went in with us unto James, and the elders all came thither. 19. And when he had greeted them, he told them one by one what God had done among the Gentiles by his ministry. 20. And when they heard it, they praised the LORD, and said unto him, Brother, thou seest how many thousands of the Jews there are which have believed, and are all zealous for the law. 21. And they were reported against thee, because thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to fall away from Moses, and sayest that they should not circumcise their children, neither walk after the same manner. 22. What is it then? The multitude must come together: for it shall come to pass before them, that thou art come. 23. Do therefore what we say unto thee: 24. We have four men, which have a vow upon them: take the same unto thee, and be cleansed with them, and bear the charge upon them, that they may give their head, and that they all may know that it is not what they have reported against thee, but that thou also wentest, and hadst the law. 25. For unto the Gentile believers we have written, and ordained that they should keep none of these things, but that they should keep themselves from things sacrificed unto idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication. 26. Then Paul took the men, and was cleansed the next day with them, and went into the temple, and was seen how he endured the days of cleansing, until the sacrifice was offered for every one of them. 27. And when the seven days should be fulfilled, the Jews which were of Asia saw him in the temple, and stirred up all the people, and laid their hands on him, and cried out: 28. Ye men of Israel, help. This is the man that teacheth all men in every place against this people, against the law, and against this place: for this cause also hath he brought the Grecians into the temple, and hath made this holy place common. 29. For they had seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city; whom they thought Paul had led into the temple. 30. And the whole city was moved, and there was a multitude of people. And they took Paul, and drew him out unto the temple: and straightway the doors were shut. 31. And when they were about to kill him, the cry went up before the chief captain of the host, as all Jerusalem was moved with indignation. 32. And from that time he took the soldiers and captains, and ran among them. When they saw the captain and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33. And when the centurion came near, he took him, and bound him with two chains, and asked who he was, and what he had done. 34. And one called this, and another called that among the people. But since he could learn nothing certain because of the tumult, he ordered him to be led into the camp. 35. And when he was come to the steps, the soldiers bare him before the violence of the people. 36. For much people followed after, crying, Away with him. 37. And when Paul was brought into the camp, he said unto the centurion, May I speak unto thee? And he said, Dost thou know Greek? 38. Art thou not the Egyptian, which before these days made a rebellion, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand assassins? 39. And Paul said: I am a Jewish man of Tarsus, a citizen of a notable city of Cilicia; I beseech thee, allow me to speak unto the people. 40. And when he had given him leave, Paul stood upon the stairs, and beckoned unto the people with his hand. And when there was a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue: (Acts) Chapter 22 Paul's responsibility and protestation. 1. Ye men, brethren and fathers, hear my answer unto you. 2. And when they heard that he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, they were still more silent. And he spake: 3. I am a Jewish man, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, and brought up in that city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught with all diligence in the law of my father, and was zealous for God, as ye all are this day. 4. And I have pursued this way unto death. And I bound them, and delivered them into prison, both man and woman, 5. As also the high priest and all the elders testify unto me, from whom I took letters unto the brethren, and journeyed to Damascus, to bring them that were there bound to Jerusalem to be tormented. 6. And it came to pass, as I was going, and came nigh unto Damascus about noon, that there looked upon me quickly a great light from heaven. 7. And I fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 8. And I said unto him, Lord, who art thou? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. 9. And they that were with me saw the light, and were afraid: but they heard not the voice of him that talked with me. 10. And I said, Lord, what shall I do? And the LORD said unto me, Arise, and go to Damascus: there shall they tell thee of all that thou art commanded to do. 11. And when I could not see for the brightness of this light, I was led by the hand of them that were with me, and came to Damascus. 12. Now there was a man that feared God according to the law, Ananias, which had a good report among all the Jews that dwelt there. 13. And he came and stood before me, and said unto me, Saul, brother, look up. And I looked upon him that very hour. 14. And he said, The God of our fathers hath ordained thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see the righteous, and hear the voice of his mouth. 15. For thou shalt be a witness unto all men of the things which thou hast seen and heard. 16. And now, what wilt thou forgive? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, and call upon the name of the LORD. 17. And it came to pass, when I was come again to Jerusalem, and worshipped in the temple, that I was amazed, and saw him. 18. And he said unto me, Haste thee, and get thee out of Jerusalem with speed: for they will not receive thy testimony of me. 19. And I said, Lord, they themselves know that I have taken captives, and have overthrown them that believe on thee in the synagogues from time to time. 20. And when the blood of Stephen thy witness was shed, I also stood by, and had pleasure in his death, and laid up the garments of them that slew him. 21. And he said unto me, Go thy way: for I will send thee far off among the heathen. 22. And they hearkened unto him unto this word, and lifted up their voice, and said: Away with such a one from the earth; for it is not right that he should live! 23. And when they cried out, and cast off their garments, and threw the dust into the air, 24. And the centurion commanded him to be brought into the camp, and said, That he should be pushed, and that he should bear it, that he might know for what cause they cried thus against him. 25. And when he had bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful among you to scourge a Roman man without judgment and justice? 26. And when the sub-chief heard it, he went to the chief captain, and told him, saying, What wilt thou do? This man is a Roman. 27. And the chief captain came unto him, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? And he said, Yea. 28. And the chief captain answered: I have brought this citizenship to pass with great sum. But Paul said: But I also was born a Roman. 29. And straightway they that were to question him departed from him. And the chief captain was afraid, when he heard that he was a Roman, and that he had bound him. 30. And the next day, desiring certainly to know why he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from the bands, and called the chief priests and all their council to come, and brought Paul forth, and set him among them. (Acts) Chapter 23 Paul is beaten on his responsibility before the council at Jerusalem, comforted by the Lord, and settled out of danger. 1. And Paul looked upon the council, and said: Men, brethren, I have walked in all good conscience before God unto this day. 2. And Ananias the high priest commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. 3. Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whitewashed wall. Seest thou and judgest me according to the law, and dost smitest me against the law? 4. And they that sat by said, Dost thou rebuke the high priest of God? 5. And Paul said, Brethren, I knew not that he was the high priest. For it is written: Thou shalt not curse the ruler of thy people. 6. And when Paul knew that one part was Sadducee, and the other Pharisee, he cried out in council, Men, brethren, I am a Pharisee, and the son of a Pharisee: I am accused for the hope and resurrection of the dead. 7. And when he had said this, there was a tumult among the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the multitude was divided. 8. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both. 9. And there was a great cry. And the scribes, the Pharisees' part, arose, and contended, saying: We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken with him, we cannot dispute with God. 10. And when the tumult was great, the chief captain was afraid lest they should break Paul, and commanded the people of war to go down, and take him from them, and bring him into the camp. 11. And the next day in the night the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou testify also in Rome. 12. And when it was day, certain of the Jews gathered themselves together, and forbade themselves neither to eat nor to drink, until they had killed Paul. 13. And there were more than forty of them that made this covenant. 14. And they came unto the chief priests and elders, and said: We have hard forbidden us nothing to eat, until we have killed Paul. 15. Now therefore make known unto the chief captain and to the council, that they bring him unto you to morrow, as if ye would question him better: but we are ready to slay him before he cometh before you. 16. And when Paul's sister's son heard the report, he went and came into the camp, and told Paul. 17. And Paul called unto him one of the rulers, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a thing to say unto him. 18. And he received him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul being bound called unto me, and besought me to bring unto thee this young man, which hath aught to say unto thee. 19. And the chief captain took him by the hand, and went into a certain place, and said unto him, What is it that thou hast to tell me? 20. And he said, The Jews are come to entreat thee, that thou wouldest cause Paul to be brought before the council to morrow, as if they would better question him. 21. But thou trustest them not: for there hold upon him more than forty men of them, which have forbidden themselves neither to eat nor to drink until they kill Paul; and are now ready and waiting for thy promise. 22. Then the chief captain sent the young man away, and commanded him that he should tell no man that he had told him these things. 23. And he called unto him two captains, and said, Prepare two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and seventy horsemen, and two hundred archers, at the third hour of the night. 24. And they prepared the beasts to set Paul upon them, and brought him in custody to Felix the governor. 25. And wrote a letter, saying thus: 26. Claudius Lysias the dear governor Felix joy before! 27. This man the Jews had taken, and would have killed him. Then I came with the people of war, and tore him from them, and learned that he was a Roman. 28. And when I had inquired of them the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought him into their council. 29. Then found I that he was accused of the questions of their law, but had no accusation worthy of death or of bonds. 30. And it came to pass, when it was brought before me, that some of the Jews laid hold on him, that I sent him unto thee from that hour, and commanded the plaintiffs also to say before thee what they had against him. Farewell! 31. The soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul, and led him by night to Antipatris. 32. And the next day they sent the horsemen with him, and turned again to the camp. 33. And when they were come to Caesarea, they delivered the letter to the governor, and presented Paul also unto him. 34. And when the governor read the letter, he asked of what country he was. And when he found out that he was from Cilicia, he said: 35. I will question thee, when thine accusers are come. And commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall. (Acts) Chapter 24 Paulos accused before the governor Felix of the Jews. 1. For five days Ananias the high priest went down with the elders, and with Tertullus the orator, which appeared before the governor against Paul. 2. And when he was called, he began to accuse Tertullus, and said: 3. That we live in great peace under thee, and that many good deeds are done to this people by thy prudence, most dear Felix, we accept with all thankfulness in every way and in every place. 4. But lest I detain thee too long, I beseech thee, that thou wouldest hear us lately after thy kindness. 5. We have found this man injurious, and the sedition aroused all the Jews throughout the whole earth, and a chief of the sect of the Nazarenes, 6. Who also hath sought to profane the temple; whom also we took, and would have judged according to our law. 7. But Lysias the captain of the guard met it, and brought him out of our hands with great violence. 8. And called his accusers unto thee, of whom thou mayest inquire, if thou wilt inquire, of all that we accuse him. 9. And the Jews also spake unto them, saying, It is so. 10. And Paul, when the governor beckoned him to speak, answered, Because I know that thou hast been a judge among this people many years, I will answer fearlessly. 11. For thou canst know that there are not more than twelve days since I came up to Jerusalem to worship. 12. Neither have they found me speaking with any in the temple, or making a disturbance among the people, or in the synagogues, or in the cities: 13. you can't teach me what they're suing me for either. 14. But this I confess unto thee, that after this way, which they call a sect, I serve the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets. 15. And have hope in God, which they themselves also wait for, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. 16. But in the same I exercise myself to have an unharmed conscience in all things, both toward God and toward men. 17. But after many years I came, and brought alms unto my people, and sacrifices. 18. And they found me purifying myself in the temple without all tumult and tumultuousness. 19. Now there were certain Jews of Asia, which should be here before thee, and should accuse me, if they had any thing against me. 20. Or let these say themselves, whether they have found any thing wrong in me, while I stand before the council, 21. Without one word, when I stood among them, and cried: For the resurrection of the dead am I accused of you this day. 22. And when Felix heard these things, he brought them up: for he knew this way almost well, and said, When Lysias the centurion cometh down, I will inquire of your thing. 23. And he commanded the governor to keep Paul, and to let him have rest, and to forbid any of his own to minister unto him, or to come unto him. 24. And after some days Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, and demanded Paul, and heard him of the faith of Christ. 25. And when Paul spake of righteousness, and of chastity, and of the judgment to come, Felix was afraid, and answered, Go thy way this time; when I have convenient time, I will send for thee. 26. And he hoped that money should be given him of Paul, that he should let him go; wherefore he sent for him often, and consulted with him. 27. And when two years were expired, Portius Festus came in Felix's stead. But Felix, wishing to do the Jews a kindness, left Paul captive behind him. (Acts) Chapter 25 Paul appeals to the emperor before Festus. 1. Now when Festus was come into the country, he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem about three days. 2. Then the chief priests and the chief of the Jews appeared before him against Paul, and exhorted him 3. And they besought favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem: and they pursued after him, and slew him in the way. 4. Then answered Festus, Paul would keep Caesarea, but he would go thither again shortly. 5. Now therefore whichever of you (said he) are able, let them go down with me, and accuse the man, if there be any thing in him. 6. And when he had been with them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea: and the next day he sat in the judgment seat, and sent for Paul. 7. And when he was come before him, the Jews that were come down from Jerusalem stood about, and brought up many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove, 8. While he answered for himself: I have not sinned against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar. 9. And Festus, desiring to show favor to the Jews, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of this before me? 10. And Paul said: I stand before Caesar to be judged: I have done no hurt to the Jews, as thou also knowest well. 11. But if I have hurt any man, and if I have done death, I refuse not to die: but if it be not that they accuse me, no man can deliver me up unto them. I appeal to the emperor. 12. Then Festus consulted with the council, and answered, Thou hast appealed to Caesar, thou shalt go to Caesar. 13. And after some days king Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to receive Festus. 14. And when they had been there many days, Festus laid before the king the bargain of Paul, saying, There is a man taken captive, left by Felix, 15. For which cause the chief priests and elders of the Jews appeared unto me when I was at Jerusalem, and besought me to have him judged; 16. To whom I answered, It is not the manner of Romans that a man should be put to death devotedly, before the accused have received his accusers presently, and room to answer the charge. 17. And when they were come together, I tarried not, and the next day held court, and brought the man forward. 18. From which time the accusers arose, they brought up none of the causes that I have cared for. 19. And they had some questions against him of their superstition, and of one JEsus dead, whom Paul said was alive. 20. And when I understood not the question, I said, Would he go to Jerusalem, and be judged there? 21. But when Paul pleaded that he should be kept by the knowledge of Caesar, I commanded him to be kept, until I should send him to Caesar. 22. And Agrippa said unto Festus, I also would gladly hear the man. And he said, To morrow thou shalt hear him. 23. And the next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp, and entered into the judgment house with the captains and chief men of the city: and when it was called Festus, Paul was brought. 24. And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all ye men that are with us here, behold, he for whom all the multitude of the Jews have enquired of me, both at Jerusalem, and here also, crying out that he should not live any longer. 25. But when I heard that he had done nothing worthy of death, and that he himself had appealed to Caesar, I determined to send him, 26. Of which I have nothing certain to write unto the LORD. Wherefore I have brought it forth before you, and most of all before thee, O king Agrippa, that after I have searched it I may have what I write; 27. For it seemeth to me to be an unadvised thing to send a prisoner, and to show no cause against him. (Acts) Chapter 26 Paul receives testimony of innocence from Agrippa on his responsibility. 1. And Agrippa said unto Paul, It is lawful for thee to speak for thyself. Then Paul answered and put forth his hand: 2. It is very dear unto me, O king Agrippa, that I should answer before thee this day for all that the Jews accuse me of, 3. Mostly because thou knowest all the customs and questions of the Jews. Therefore I pray thee, hear me patiently. 4. Though my life from my youth, as it hath been from the beginning among this people at Jerusalem, all the Jews know, 5. Who knew me before, if they would testify. For I was a Pharisee, which is the strictest sect of our worship. 6. And now I stand accused of the hope of the promise which was made of God unto our fathers. 7. To which the twelve generations of ours hope to come, diligently worshipping day and night. Because of this hope I, dear King Agrippa, am accused by the Jews. 8. Why is this judged incredible among you, that God raises the dead? 9. Though I thought also in myself, that I ought to do much to the name of JESUS of Nazareth, 10. As I did at Jerusalem, when I shut up many saints in prison, whereof I received power from the chief priests: and when they were slain, I helped to pronounce judgment. 11. And through all the synagogues I tormented them oftentimes, and compelled them to blaspheme, and was exceedingly senseless against them, persecuting them even unto strange cities. 12. Over which also I journeyed to Damascus with power and commandment from the chief priests, 13. In the midst of the day, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, brighter than the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them that journeyed with me. 14. And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speak unto me, saying in the ibex, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? It shall be hard for thee to lick against the sting. 15. And I said, Lord, who art thou? And he said: I am Jesus, whom thou persecutest: but arise, and stand upon thy feet. 16. For to this end have I appeared unto thee, to appoint thee a minister and a witness of those things which thou hast seen, and which I will yet make to appear unto thee. 17. And I will deliver thee from the people, and from the heathen, among whom I send thee now, 18. Open their eyes, that they may turn from darkness unto light, and from the power of Satan unto God, to receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance with them which are sanctified by faith toward me. 19. Therefore, dear King Agrippa, I was not incredulous of the heavenly appearance, 20. But preached first to them that were in Damascus, and in Jerusalem, and in all the coasts of Judaea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent, and turn unto God, and do righteous works of repentance. 21. For this cause the Jews took me in the temple, and subjected me to death. 22. But by the help of GOD I have succeeded, and stand to this day witnessing to both small and great, and saying nothing save that which the prophets said should come to pass, and Moses: 23. That Christ should suffer, and be first in the resurrection from the dead, and should preach a light unto the people and to the Gentiles. 24. And when he had given this charge, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art mad; the great art maketh thee mad. 25. And he said, My dear Festus, I do not run, but I speak true and reasonable words. 26. For the king knoweth these things, to whom I speak gladly: for I know that it is not hid from him, because it is not done in the corner. 27. Dost thou believe, O king Agrippa, the prophet? I know that thou believest. 28. And Agrippa said unto Paul, It lacketh not much, that thou persuadest me to become a Christian. 29. And Paul said: I desired before God, lacking much or little, that not thou alone,. but all they which hear me this day, should become such as I am, except these bands. 30. And when he had said this, the king arose, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them, 31. And they departed, and talked together, and said: This man hath done nothing worthy of death or bondage. 32. And Agrippa said unto Festus, This man might have been let go, if he had not appealed to Caesar. (Acts) Chapter 27 Paul's dangerous and wonderful voyage. 1. But when it was determined that we should ship for Guelph, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners to the sub-chief, whose name was Julius, of the imperial host. 2. And when we were entered into an Adramyttian ship to go to Asia, we departed from the land: and with us was Aristarchus of Macedonia, of Thessalonica. 3. And arrived at Sidon the next day. And Julius kept kindly toward Paul, and suffered him to go to his good friends, and to take care of him: 4. And from thence we turned aside, and sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were against us. 5. And they sailed by sea from Cilicia and Pamphylia, and came to Myra in Lycia. 6. And there the centurion found a ship from Alexandria, which sailed to the Welsh country, and loaded us thereon. 7. But as we sailed slowly, and in many days came scarcely against Knidus (for the wind rebuked us), we sailed under Crete to the city of Salmone. 8. And as we passed by, we came to a place called Good-ford, which was near unto the city of Lasea. 9. Now when much time had passed, and it was now dangerous to ship, because the fast was already over, Paul exhorted them 10. And said unto them: Men, I see that the navigation will go with insult and great harm, not only to the burden and the ship, but also to our lives. 11. But the sub-chief believed the master of the ship and the ship's man more than what Paul said. 12. And when the ford was not convenient for wintering, several of them took counsel to depart thence, if they might come to winter at Phoenix, which is a ford of Crete, against the wind southwest and northwest. 13. And it came to pass, when the south wind blew, and they thought that they now had their preeminence, that they rose up to Assos, and passed over to Crete. 14. But not long after this there arose against her nobles a wind-bride, which is called the north-east. 15. And when the ship was taken, and could not turn herself against the wind, we gave her up, and so floated. 16. But we came to an island called Klauda, where we could hardly take hold of a boat. 17. And we lifted it up, and needed help, and tied it to the bottom of the ship; for we feared lest it should fall into the sea; and we let down the vessel, and went thus. 18. And when we had suffered great tempests, the next day they made an issue. 19. And on the third day we cast out with our hands the readiness in the ship. 20. But since neither sun nor star appeared in many days, and not a little storm was against us, all hope of our life was gone. 21. And when they had not eaten for a long time, Paul stood in the midst of them, and said, Men, let me be obeyed, and not have departed from Crete, and put us to this grief and hurt. 22. And now I exhort you to be of good courage: for there shall not perish a living thing of us without the ship. 23. For this night the angel of God stood with me, whom I am, and whom I serve, 24. And said, Fear not, Paul: thou must be brought before Caesar: and, behold, God hath given thee all them that ship with thee. 25. Therefore, men, be of good courage: for I believe God, and it shall come to pass, as I have been told. 26. We're gonna have to pull over to an island. 27. And it came to pass, when the fourteenth night was come, and we were in the Adriatic sea about midnight, that the shipmen thought that they were about to come to land. 28. And they lowered the lead, and found twenty fathoms deep. And about a little from thence they lowered again, and found fifteen fathoms. 29. And they feared lest they should run into hard places, and cast four anchors from the back of the ship, and desired that it might be day. 30. And when the shipmen sought to escape out of the ship, and let down the boat into the sea, pretending that they would let down the anchors out of the front of the ship, 31. Paul saith unto the centurion and to the soldiers: If these abide not in the ship, ye cannot abide in life. 32. And the soldiers cut off the ropes of the barge, and let it fall. 33. And when it began to be light, Paul exhorted them all to take meat, saying, It is this day, that ye have waited, and have not eaten, and have taken nothing. 34. Wherefore I exhort you to take meat, to refresh yourselves: for there shall not an hair of your head fall from off your head. 35. And when he had said this, he took bread, and gave thanks unto God before them all, and brake it, and began to eat. 36. Then were they all of good cheer, and took meat also. 37. And ours were all together in the ship two hundred seventy and six souls. 38. And when they were filled, they lightened the ship, and cast the corn into the sea. 39. And when it was day, they knew not the land. But they perceived a ford, which had a shore: thither they would have driven the ship, if it were possible. 40. And when they had weighed anchor, they let themselves go to the sea, and loosed the oars, and set sail to the wind, and sought the shore. 41. And when we were come to a place which had the sea on both sides, the ship was buffeted, and the fore part stood fast immovable; but the hind part was broken by the violence of the waves. 42. And the soldiers had counsel to slay the captives, lest any that fled should escape. 43. But the centurion, desiring to preserve Paul, rebuked their pretensions, and commanded them that could swim to let themselves first into the sea, and escape unto the land, 44. And the rest, some on the boards, and some on the things which were of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they all obtained land. (Acts) Chapter 28 Paul's miracle work on the island of Melite. Arrival in Rome. 1. And when we were come out, we learned that the name of the island was Melite. 2. And the people showed us no small kindness, and kindled a fire, and took us all in because of the rain that was come upon us, and because of the cold. 3. And when Paul had gathered together a heap of sticks, and laid them upon the fire, an adder came from the heat, and took Paul's hand. 4. And when the people saw the beast hanging on his hand, they said one to another, This man is a murderer, whom vengeance will not let live, though he hath escaped the sea. 5. And he turned the beast into the fire, and no evil happened unto him. 6. And they waited, when he would swell, or fall down dead. And when they had waited a long time, and saw that no evil happened unto him, they turned, and said that he was a god. 7. And in the same place the chief of the island, whose name was Publius, had an estate; and he received us, and lodged us three days with kindness. 8. And it came to pass, that Publius' father was sick of a fever and dysentery. And Paul went in unto him, and prayed, and laid his hand upon him, and healed him. 9. And when this was done, the rest of the people that were sick in the island came and were healed. 10. And they did us great honour: and when we went out, they loaded up the things that were needful for us. 11. And after three moons we sailed from Alexandria in a ship which had wintered at the island, and had a banner of the twins. 12. And when we were come to Syracuse, we tarried there three days. 13. And when we were compassed about, we came to Rhegion: and after a day, when the south wind rose, we came the next day to Puteolj. 14. And we found brethren, and were requested of them that we should tarry there seven days. And so we came to Rome. 15. And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they went out to meet us unto Appifor and Tretabern. When Paul saw them, he gave thanks to God and gained confidence. 16. And when we were come to Rome, the sub-captain delivered the prisoners unto the chief captain. But Paul was permitted to remain where he would, with a soldier guarding his. 17. And it came to pass after three days, that Paul called together the chief of the Jews. And when they were come together, he said unto them: Men, brethren, I have done nothing against our people, nor against the customs of my father, and yet am delivered captive out of Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans, 18. Which, when they had heard me, would have loosed me, because there was no cause of death in me. 19. And when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to plead with Caesar; not as though I had a cause of action against my people. 20. For this cause have I asked of you, that I might see you, and speak unto you: for for the hope of Israel I am compassed about with this chain. 21. And they said unto him, We have received no writing out of Judea for thy sake, neither hath there come any brother that hath spoken or said any evil of thee. 22. But we will hear from thee what thou thinkest. For of this sect we know that it is contradicted at every end. 23. And when they had appointed him a day, many came unto him into the inn, whom he interpreted, and testified of the kingdom of God, and preached unto them of Jesus out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from the early morning until the evening. 24. And some fell to the things which he spake; but some believed not. 25. And when they were displeased among themselves, they departed, when Paul spake a word, which the Holy Ghost spake by the prophet Isaiah unto our fathers. 26. And said: Go unto this people, and say, With your ears ye shall hear, and not understand; and with your eyes ye shall see, and not know. 27. For the heart of this people is hardened, and they hardly hear with their ears, and slumber with their eyes; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand in their heart, and be converted, and I should help them. 28. Let it be known unto you, that this salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles; and they shall hear it. 29. And when he spake these things, the Jews went and had much questioning among themselves. 30. And Paul abode two years in his own house, and received all them that came unto him, 31. Preached the kingdom of GOD, and taught of the LORD JEsu with all gladness unbidden. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The letter of Paul to the Romans ^ Chapter 1 Righteousness does not come from the law of nature and its works, for all Gentiles are sinners and unrighteous. 1. Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, set apart to preach the gospel of God, 2. Which he promised beforehand by his prophets in the holy scriptures, 3. Of his son, born of the seed of David according to the flesh. 4. and powerfully demonstrated by a Son of God according to the Spirit, who sanctifies since the time he rose from the dead, even JEsus Christ our Lord. 5. (By whom we have received grace and apostleship, to establish among all nations the obedience of faith under his name, 6. of whom ye also are in part, which are called of JESUS CHRIST:) 7. to all who are in Rome, the beloved of God and called saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 8. First of all, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of in all the world. 9. For God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that I remember you without ceasing. 10. Praying always in my prayers, if it may come to pass, that I may come unto you by the will of God. 11. For I desire to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, 12. This is that I might be comforted together with you by your faith, and by mine which we have one of another. 13. But I will not restrain you, brethren, that I have often purposed to come unto you, (but am hitherto prevented,) that I may bring forth fruit among you also, as among other Gentiles. 14. I am a debtor both to the Greek and to the un-Greek, both to the wise and to the unwise. 15. Therefore, as much as there is in me, I am inclined to preach the gospel also unto you at Rome. 16. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God, which saveth all them that believe it, both Jews first, and Greeks also, 17. For therein is manifested the righteousness that is established before God, which cometh by faith through faith: as it is written, The righteous shall live by faith. 18. For the wrath of God from heaven is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold up the truth in unrighteousness. 19. For it is manifest unto them that God is known: for God hath revealed it unto them. 20. That the invisible nature of God, that is, his eternal power and Godhead, may be seen when it is perceived in works, that is, in the creation of the world, so that they have no excuse, 21. Knowing that there is a God, they have not praised him as a God, nor thought of him, but have become vain in their imaginations, and their understanding heart is darkened. 22. Thinking they were wise, they became fools. 23. and have changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image like unto corruptible man, and the birds, and the fourfooted beasts, and the creeping things. 24. Therefore God also hath given them over to the lusts of their hearts, in uncleanness, to defile their own bodies against themselves. 25. Who have turned the truth of God into a lie, and have honored and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever and ever. Amen. 26. Therefore God also hath given them up to shameful lusts. For their wives have changed the natural custom into an unnatural one. 27. Likewise also the men have forsaken the natural custom of the woman, and are heated one with another in their lusts, and have wrought shame man with man, and have received the reward of their error (as it should be) in themselves. 28. And as they took no heed that they knew God, so God gave them over to a perverse mind, to do that which was not good, 29. Full of all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, malice, full of hatred, murder, hatred, cunning, poisonous, ear-blowing, 30. slanderers, despisers of God, sacrilegious, proud, harmful, disobedient to parents, 31. unreasonable, faithless, stubborn, unforgiving, unmerciful 32. Knowing God's righteousness (that those who do such things are worthy of death), they not only do it, but have pleasure in those who do it. (Romans) Chapter 2 The Jews are as much sinners as the Gentiles, though they boast of the law of Moses and of circumcision. 1. Therefore, O man, thou canst not excuse thyself, who thou art that judgest: for in that thou judgest another thou condemnest thyself, because thou doest the very thing which thou judgest. 2. For we know that the judgment of God is right against them that do these things. 3. But thinkest thou, O man, that judgest them which do these things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 4. Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, patience and forbearance? Do you not know that God's goodness leads you to repentance? 5. But thou, according to thine own hardened and impenitent heart, heapest up wrath unto thyself for the day of wrath, and for the revelation of the righteous judgment of God. 6. Who shall give to every man according to his works, 7. That is, glory and honour, and incorruptible things, to them who with patience in good works seek eternal life, 8. But to them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey the unrighteous, unkindness and wrath; 9. Tribulation and anguish upon all the souls of men that do evil, especially of the Jews, and also of the Greeks;. 10. But praise, and honour, and peace, unto all them that do good, to the Jews chiefly, and also to the Greeks. 11. For there is no respect of person before God. 12. They that have sinned without the law shall perish without the law: and they that have sinned against the law shall be condemned by the law, 13. For not those who hear the law are righteous in the sight of God, but those who do the law will be righteous. 14. For the Gentiles, which have not the law, and yet by nature do the work of the law; these, because they have not the law, are a law unto themselves. 15. That they may prove that the work of the law is written in their hearts, as their consciences bear witness, and their minds also, which accuse or excuse one another, 16. To the day that God shall judge the hidden things of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. 17. And, behold, thou art called a Jew, and hast trusted in the law, and hast glorified God. 18. Knowing his will, and being instructed in the law, consider what is best to be done, 19. and miss thee to be a guide of the blind, a light of them that are in darkness, 20. A reprover of the foolish, a teacher of the simple, having the form of knowing what is right in the law. 21. Now thou teachest others, and teachest not thyself. You preach that one should not steal, and you steal. 22. Thou sayest not to commit adultery, and thou committest adultery. Thou dost abhor idols, and rob God of what is his. 23. Thou boastest of the law, and defileest GOD by transgression of the law. 24. For the name of God is blasphemed among the heathen, as it is written. 25. Circumcision is profitable if thou keep the law: but if thou keep not the law, thy circumcision is become foreskin. 26. If therefore the foreskin keep the law, thinkest thou not that his foreskin be counted for circumcision? 27. And so that which is by nature a foreskin, and fulfilleth the law, shall judge thee, who art under the letter and circumcision, and transgresseth the law. 28. For this is not a Jew by heart, neither is it circumcision by heart in the flesh, 29. But this is a Jew who is inwardly hidden, and circumcision of the heart is a circumcision made in the spirit and not in the letter, which praise is not of men but of GOD. (Romans) Chapter 3 Righteousness comes from faith. 1. What advantage have the Jews, or what is the use of circumcision? 2. Though almost much. First, they are trusted in what God has spoken. 3. But if some believe not in these things, what is the matter? Should their unbelief nullify the faith of God? 4. Let this be far off. But let it remain that God is true, and all men false; as it is written: That thou mayest be just in thy words, and overcome when thou art judged. 5. But if our unrighteousness praiseth God's righteousness, what shall we say? Is God also unjust, that He is angry about it? (So I speak in the manner of men.) 6. be far from this! How else could God judge the world? 7. For if the truth of God be made more glorious to his praise by my lying, why should I be judged as a sinner any more? 8. And do not rather as we are blasphemed, and as some say, that we should say: Let us do evil, that good may come of it? Which condemnation is quite right. 9. What do we say? Do we have an advantage? None at all. For we have proved above that both Jews and Greeks are all under sin, 10. As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one; 11. There is none that hath understanding; there is none that seeketh after God. 12. They are all gone astray, and have all become unfit: there is none that doeth good, not one. 13. Their mouth is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they deal deceitfully; viper's poison is under their lips; 14. Their mouth is full of cursing and bitterness; 15. Their feet are hastening to shed blood; 16. In their ways is all mischief and heartache. 17. And the way of peace they know not; 18. There is no fear of God before their eyes. 19. But we know that whatsoever the law saith, that saith it unto them which are under the law; that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may owe unto God. 20. Because by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified in his sight: for by the law cometh the knowledge of sin. 21. But now without the law the righteousness that is before God is revealed and testified by the law and the prophets. 22. But I say of this righteousness in the sight of God, which cometh by faith in JESUS Christ unto all, and upon all them that believe. 23. For there is no difference here: they are all sinners, and lack the glory which they ought to have in God, 24. And are justified without merit by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus, 25. Whom God set forth to be a mercy seat through faith in his blood, that he might present the righteousness that is before him, in that he forgiveth sins which until now have remained under divine patience, 26. That he might at these times present the righteousness that is before him, that he alone might be righteous, and justify him that believeth in JESUS. 27. Where's the glory now? It is gone. By what law? By the law of works? Not therefore, but by the law of faith. 28. We hold therefore that a man is justified without works of the law, but by faith alone. 29. Or is God the God of the Jews alone? Is he not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, indeed, also the God of the Gentiles. 30. For there is one God, who justifies circumcision by faith, and the foreskin by faith. 31. How then do we abolish the law by faith? Far be it from that; but we establish the law. (Romans) Chapter 4 The righteousness of faith is explained by the example of Abraham. 1. What say we then of Abraham our father, that he was found according to the flesh? 2. This is what we say: If Abraham is righteous by works, he has glory, but not before God. 3. What then saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and this was counted to him for righteousness. 4. But to him that worketh the reward is not by grace, but by duty. 5. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6. According to which David also saith, that salvation is of man only, to whom God imputeth righteousness without works, saying: 7. Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8. Blessed is the man to whom God does not impute sin. 9. Now this blessedness, is it by circumcision, or by foreskin? We must ever say that Abraham's faith was counted for righteousness. 10. How then is he imputed to him, in circumcision, or in the foreskin? Without doubt, not in circumcision, but in the foreskin. 11. And the sign of circumcision he received for a seal of the righteousness of the faith which was in the foreskin, that he might be made a father of all them which believe in the foreskin, that they also might be counted for righteousness. 12. And would also be a father of the circumcision, not only of them that are of the circumcision, but also of them that walk in the footsteps of faith, which was in the foreskin of Abraham our father. 13. For the promise that he should be the heir of the world was not made to Abraham, nor to his seed, by the law, but by the righteousness of faith. 14. For where they that are of the law are heirs, faith is nothing, and the promise is taken away. 15. For the law worketh wrath: for where the law is not, there is no transgression. 16. Therefore righteousness must come by faith, that it may be by grace; and that the promise may stand fast unto all seed, not to him only who is under the law, but also to him who is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, 17. As it is written, I have made thee the father of many nations before God, whom thou hast believed, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth him that is not, that he should be. 18. And he believed in hope, when there was no hope; that he might be a father of many nations: as it was said unto him, So shall thy seed be. 19. And he was not weak in faith, neither did he look upon his own body, which was dead, being almost an hundred years old, nor upon the dead body of Sarah. 20. For he doubted not the promise of God through unbelief, but waxed strong in faith, and gave glory to God. 21. Knowing most assuredly that what God promised he was able to do. 22. Therefore it is counted unto him for righteousness. 23. But this is not written for his sake only, that it should be imputed unto him, 24. But also for our sakes, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up our Lord Jesus from the dead. 25. Who for our sins was given up, and for our righteousness was raised from the dead. (Romans) Chapter 5 Of some fruits of the righteousness of faith? Contrasting Christ and Adam. 1. Forasmuch then as we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2. by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and boast of the hope of the glory to come, which God shall give. 3. Not only so, but we also glory in tribulation, knowing that tribulation bringeth patience. 4. But patience bringeth experience, and experience bringeth hope, 5. But hope maketh not ashamed. For the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6. For Christ also, when we were yet weak after the time, died for us that were ungodly. 7. Now scarcely any die for the sake of righteousness; for the sake of some good perhaps some may die. 8. Therefore praise God for his love toward us, that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. 9. So shall we ever more be kept from wrath through him, having been justified by his blood. 10. For if we have been reconciled to God by the death of his Son, while we were yet enemies, much more shall we be saved by his life, if we have now been reconciled. 11. Not only this, but we also glory in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the atonement. 12. Therefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, because they were all sinners; 13. For sin was in the world until the law: but where there is no law, there is no respect of sin, 14. But death reigned from Adam even unto Moses, even over them that sinned not with the like transgression as Adam, which is the image of him that was to come. 15. But the gift is not as the sin. For if many died in one sin, much more the grace and gift of God abounded to many through the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16. And the gift is not for one sin only, as through one sinner's sin all things perish. For the sentence is from one sin unto condemnation: but the gift is also from many sins unto righteousness. 17. For if death reigned through one for the sin of one, much more shall they that receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through one, Jesus Christ:) 18. As therefore by one man's sin came condemnation upon all men, even so by one man's righteousness came justification of life upon all men. 19. For as by one man's disobedience many sinners were made, so also by one man's obedience many righteous are made. 20. But the law came in beside, that sin might be made more powerful. But where sin was made mighty, grace was made much mightier, 21. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so may grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans) Chapter 6 Of sanctification and new obedience as a fruit of the righteousness of faith. 1. What shall we say to this? Shall we then persevere in sin, that grace may be the more powerful? 2. Far be it from us! How shall we live in sin, to which we are dead? 3. Know ye not that all which are baptized into Jesus Christ are baptized into his death? 4. Therefore are we ever buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5. But if we be planted together with him unto like death, we shall be also like unto the resurrection, 6. Knowing that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be put away, that we should not henceforth serve sin. 7. For he that is dead is justified from sin. 8. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall live with him: 9. Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth not henceforth, neither shall death have dominion over him. 10. For that he died, he died unto sin once: but that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11. Ye also, take ye heed that ye are dead to sins, and live unto God in Christ our Lord. 12. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to render him obedience in his lusts. 13. Neither commit your members to sin for weapons of unrighteousness; but commit yourselves to God, as those who are alive from the dead, and your members to God for weapons of righteousness, 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you, because ye are not under the law, but under grace. 15. How then shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? Be it far from me! 16. Know ye not, to whom ye yield yourselves servants in obedience, of whom ye are servants, to whom ye are obedient, whether to sin unto death, or to obedience unto righteousness? 17. But God be remembered, that ye were the servants of sin, but are now obedient in heart to the pattern of doctrine, to which ye are devoted. 18. Forasmuch then as ye were made free from sin, ye became servants of righteousness. 19. I must speak of it humanly because of the weakness of your flesh. As ye have given your members to the service of uncleanness, and from one unrighteousness to another; even so now give your members to the service of righteousness, that they may be sanctified. 20. For when ye were the servants of sin, then were ye free from righteousness. 21. What fruit therefore had ye in those days? Of which ye are now ashamed: for the end thereof is death. 22. But now that ye are freed from sin, and have become the servants of God, ye have your fruit, that ye may be sanctified; and the end is life everlasting. 23. For death is the wages of sin: but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ our Lord. (Romans) Chapter 7 Of freedom from the law, the use and effect of the law, and the struggle of the inner and outer man, 1. Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak unto them that know the law,) that the law hath dominion over man all the days of his life? 2. For a woman that is under a man, while the man liveth, she is bound by the law: but if the man die, she is loosed from the law concerning the man. 3. Now if she be with another man, because the man liveth, she is called an adulteress: but if the man die, she is free from the law, that she be not an adulteress, if she be with another man. 4. So also, my brethren, ye are put to death by the law through the body of Christ, that ye should be with another, even with him which is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto GOD. 5. For when we were in the flesh, the lusts of sin, which were stirred up by the law, were strong in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. 6. But now are we loosed from the law, and are dead unto it which held us captive; that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. 7. What shall we say then? Is the law sin? Be it far from me! But I knew not sin without the law. For I knew nothing of lust, where the law had not said, Be not lascivious. 8. And sin took occasion in the commandment, and provoked me to all manner of lusts. For without the law sin was dead. 9. But I lived about without the law. But when the commandment came, sin was alive again. 10. And I died, and it came to pass that the commandment which was given me for life was unto death. 11. For sin took occasion by the commandment, and deceived me, and slew me by that same commandment. 12. The law is ever holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. 13. Is then that which is good become a death unto me? Be it far from me! But sin, that it might appear to be sin, hath by that which is good wrought death for me, that sin might become exceeding sinful by the commandment. 14. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15. For I know not what I do: for I do not what I will, but what I hate, that do I. 16. But if I do that which I would not, I consent that the law be good. 17. I do not therefore these things, but sin which dwelleth in me. 18. For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing. I can will, but I cannot do what is good, 19. For the good that I would, that do I not: but the evil that I would not, that do I. 20. But if I do that which I would not, I do not that thing, but sin which dwelleth in me. 21. Now therefore find me a law, that I may do good, that I may do evil. 22. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man. 23. But I see another law in my members, which is contrary to the law in my mind, and taketh me captive to the law of sin, which is in my limbs. 24. I wretched man, who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25. I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then I serve the law of God with my mind, but the law of sin with my flesh. (Romans) Chapter 8 The believer's freedom from condemnation. Walk according to the spirit, comfort against suffering, 1. There is therefore nothing condemnable in them which are in Christ JEsu, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2. For the law of the Spirit which quickeneth in Christ JEsu hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3. For that which was impossible for the law (because it was weakened by the flesh) God did, and sent his Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and condemned sin in the flesh by sin, 4. That the righteousness required by the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5. For they that are carnal are carnally minded: but they that are spiritual are spiritual minded. 6. But to be carnally minded is death, and to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7. For to be carnally minded is enmity against God, because it is not subject to the law of God; neither is it able. 8. But they that are carnal may not please God. 9. But ye are not carnal, but spiritual; otherwise the Spirit of God dwelleth in you. But he that hath not the Spirit of Christ is not his. 10. But if Christ be in you, the body is dead indeed because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11. If therefore the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he also that raised up Christ from the dead shall quicken your mortal bodies, because his Spirit dwelleth in you. (Epistle on the eighth Sunday after Trinity.) 12. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye kill business by the spirit of the flesh, ye shall live. 14. For whom the Spirit of God causeth to walk, they are the children of God. 15. For ye have not received a servile spirit, that ye should fear again; but ye have received a childlike spirit, by which we cry: Abba, dear Father! 16. The same Spirit bears witness to our spirit that we are the children of God. 17. If we then be children, we are heirs also, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if we suffer otherwise, that we may also be exalted with them unto glory. 18. For I consider that this time of suffering is not worthy of the glory that shall be revealed in us. 19. For the anxious waiting of the creature awaits the revelation of the children of God, 20. Because the creature is subjected to vanity not of his own will, but of him that subjected it unto hope. 21. For the creature also shall be set free from the service of corruptible things unto the glorious liberty of the children of GOD. 22. For we know that every creature longs with us, and is still in anguish. 23. And not only they, but we also, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves long to be born children, waiting for the redemption of our bodies. 24. For we are saved, but in hope. But the hope that is seen is not hope: for how can a man hope for that which is seen? 25. But if we hope for that which we see not, we wait for it by patience. 26. Likewise also the Spirit helpeth our weakness. For we know not what we ought to pray for, as it is fitting: but the Spirit himself filleth for us in the best manner, with groanings that cannot be uttered. 27. But he that searcheth the hearts knoweth the mind of the Spirit: for he representeth the saints according to that which is pleasing in the sight of God. 28. But we know that to those who love GOD all things are for the best, who are called according to the purpose. 29. For whom he did provide before, he also ordained that they should be conformed to the image of his Son, that he should be the firstborn among many brethren. 30. And whom he hath ordained, them hath he also called: whom he hath called, them hath he also justified: whom he hath justified, them hath he also glorified. 31. What shall we say to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32. Who spared not his own Son, but gave him up for us all: how shall he not with him give us all things? 33. Who will accuse the elect of God? God is here, who makes righteous. 34. Who shall condemn? Christ is here, who died; yea, rather, who also was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, representing us. 35. Who will separate us from the love of God? Tribulation or fear or persecution or hunger or nakedness or peril or sword? 36. As it is written, For thy sake we are slain all the day long: we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37. But in all these things we overcome far because of him that loved us. 38. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39. Neither high nor low, nor any other creature, shall separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ our Lord. (Romans) Chapter 9 Election does not depend on external merit, but on God's grace. 1. I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not: to whom my conscience beareth witness in the Holy Ghost, 2. That I have great sadness and pain without ceasing in my heart. 3. I have desired to be cut off from Christ for my brethren, who are my friends according to the flesh, 4. Which are of Israel, to whom belongeth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenant, and the law, and the service, and the promise; 5. Which also are the fathers, from whom Christ came in the flesh, who is God over all, blessed for ever and ever. Amen. But I do not say this, that the word of God is therefore finished. For not all Israelites are of Israel; 7. Neither are all they that are Abraham's seed therefore children: but: In Isaac shall the seed be called unto thee. 8. That is, they are not the children of God according to the flesh, but the children of the promise are counted for seed. 9. For this is a word of promise, saying, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. 10. And not only so, but also because Rebekah conceived by one Isaac our father; 11. Before the children were born, and had done neither good nor evil, that the purpose of God might be according to election, it was said unto her, 12. Not by merit of works, but by grace of profession: that is, Let the greater be made servants to the lesser, 13. As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14. What are we saying here? Is God unjust? Be far from it! 15. For he saith unto Moses, Whomsoever I have mercy upon, I will have mercy upon; and whomsoever I have mercy upon, I will have mercy upon. 16. So then it is not up to anyone to will or to run, but up to God's mercy. 17. For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, For this very cause have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, that my name might be declared in all the earth. 18. Now therefore he hath mercy on whom he will, and hath cast out whom he will. 19. Then sayest thou unto me, What oweth he to us? Who can resist his will? 20. Yea, dear man, who art thou that thou wouldest be right with God? Says also a work to its master: Why do you make me thus? 21. Hath not a potter power to make of one lump one barrel for honour, and the other for dishonour? 22. For this cause, when God would shew his wrath, and make known his power, he hath borne with great patience the vessels of wrath prepared for condemnation, 23. That he might shew the riches of his glory in the vessels of mercy, which he hath prepared for glory, 24. Whom he hath called, even us, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles. 25. As he saith also by Hosea, I will call this my people, which was not my people; and my love, which was not love. 26. And it shall come to pass, in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people, that they shall be called children of the living God. 27. And Isaiah cried unto Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet shall the remnant be saved; 28. For there shall be destruction and taxes for righteousness: and the LORD will do the same taxes upon the earth. 29. And as Isaiah saith before, If the LORD of hosts had not left us seed, we should have been like Sodom, and like Gomorrah. 30. What then shall we say here? This we will say, The Gentiles, which stood not after righteousness, have obtained righteousness: but I say of the righteousness that cometh by faith. 31. But Israel hath been after the law of righteousness, and hath not passed over the law of righteousness. 32. Why is this? Because they seek it not by faith, but by the works of the law. For they have stumbled at the stumbling stone, 33. As it is written, Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not fall to pieces. (Romans) Chapter 10 The knowledge of election is not found in the law, but in the gospel. 1. Brethren, it is the desire of my heart, and I also beseech God for Israel, that they may be saved. 2. For I bear them witness, that they strive for God, but with ignorance. 3. For they know not the righteousness that is before God, and seek to establish their own righteousness, and so are not subject to the righteousness that is before God. 4. For Christ is the end of the law: he that believeth on him is justified. 5. Moses writes about the righteousness that comes from the law: "Whoever does this will live in it. 6. But righteousness by faith saith thus; Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (This is nothing else, but to bring Christ down.) 7. Or, Who shall go down into the deep? (This is nothing else than bringing Christ from the dead). 8. but what saith it? The word is near you, that is, in your mouth and in your heart. (Epistle on St. Andrew's Day.) This is the word of faith that we preach. 9. For if thou shalt confess with thy mouth that Jesus is the Lord, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For if a man believe with his heart, he is justified; and if he confess with his mouth, he is saved. 11. For the scripture saith, He that believeth on him shall not be put to shame. 12. There is no difference here between Jews and Greeks: for there is one Lord, rich above all them that call upon him. 13. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved. 14. But how shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe, of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15. But how shall they preach, if they be not sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach peace, that preach goodness! 16. But they are not all obedient to the gospel. For Isaiah saith, Lord, who shall believe our preaching? 17. So faith comes from preaching, and preaching by the word of God. 18. But I say, Have they not heard? For the sound thereof is gone out into all lands, and the words thereof into all the world. 19. But I say, Hath not Israel known it? The first Moses saith, I will make you jealous over him that is not my people, and over a foolish people will I make you angry. 20. But Isaiah may well say thus, I am invented of them that sought me not, and am appeared unto them that asked not for me. 21. And unto Israel saith he, All day long have I stretched out my hands unto the people, which will not be told, and will not answer. (Romans) Chapter 11 The election is immutable. 1. I say therefore, Has God cast off His people? Be it far from me! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the lineage of Benjamin. 2. God hath not cast off his people, whom he provided before. Or know ye not what the scripture saith of Elijah, how he stood before God against Israel, and said: 3. O LORD, they have slain thy prophets, and have digged up thine altars; and I am left alone, and they are after my life? 4. But what is the answer of God unto him? I have left me seven thousand men, which have not bowed the knee to Baal. 5. So it is also at this time with these that are left, according to the election of graces. 6. But if it be by grace, it is not by merit of works: otherwise grace is not grace. But if it be by merit of works, grace is nothing; otherwise merit would not be merit. 7. How then? That which Israel seeketh, it obtaineth not: but the choice it obtaineth. The rest are hardened, 8. As it is written, God hath given them a fierce spirit, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear, unto this day. 9. And David saith, Let their table be a snare, and a ravishment, and a vexation, and a recompence unto them. 10. Blind their eyes, that they see not; and bend their backs always. 11. I say therefore, Did they run for this cause, that they should fall? Far be it from them. But out of their fall salvation came unto the Gentiles, that they might emulate them. 12. For if their fall be the riches of the world, and their loss the riches of the Gentiles, how much more, if their number be full? 13, With you Gentiles I speak: for because I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I will magnify my ministry, 14. Whether I will stir up them that are my flesh to jealousy, and save some of them. 15. For if their loss is the reconciliation of the world, what is it but to take life from the dead? 16. If the beginning be holy, the dough also is holy: and if the root be holy, the branches also are holy. 17. But if some of the branches be broken, and thou, being a wild olive tree, be grafted in among them, and be partaker of the root and of the sap of the olive tree; 18. Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast against them, know that thou bearest not the root, but the root beareth thee. 19. Thus speakest thou: The branches are broken, that I might be grafted in. 20. It is well said. They are broken because of their unbelief, but you stand by faith. Be not proud, but fear'... 21. If God hath not spared the natural branches, perhaps he will not spare thine also. 22. Therefore behold the goodness and the earnestness of God: the earnestness in them that are fallen, and the goodness in thee, if thou abide in the goodness; otherwise thou shalt be cut off also. 23. And if they continue not in unbelief, they shall be grafted in: God is able to graft them in again. 24. For if thou be cut out of the olive tree, which was wild by nature, and be grafted contrary to nature into the good olive tree, how much more shall the natural be grafted into their own olive tree? 25. I will not keep this secret from you, brethren, lest ye be proud. Blindness happened to Israel on the one hand, until the fullness of the Gentiles came in, 26. And so all Israel shall be saved, as it is written, There shall come out of Zion a deliverer, and a remover of the wicked from Jacob. 27. And this is my testament with them, when I shall take away their sins. 28. According to the gospel I count them enemies for your sakes: but according to election I love them for the fathers' sakes. 29. May God's gifts and calling not make him regretful. 30. For even as ye believed not in God, yet now have ye mercy on their unbelief, 31. So that even they will not now believe in the mercy which is done unto you, that they also may obtain mercy. 32. For God hath decreed all things among unbelievers, that He might have mercy upon all. (Epistle on the Feast of Trinity.) 33. O What a depth of riches, both of wisdom and knowledge of God! How utterly incomprehensible are His judgments and inscrutable His ways! 34. For who hath known the mind of the LORD? Or who hath been his counsellor? 35. Or who hath given him aught before, that he should be recompensed? 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things. To him be glory forever and ever! Amen] (Romans) Chapter 12 Christian Rules of Life. (Epistle on the first Sunday after Epiphany.) 1. I exhort you, brethren, by the mercy of God, to offer your bodies for sacrifice, living, holy, and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable worship. 2. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove which is the good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 3. For I say by the grace that is given unto me unto every one of you, that no man think more of himself than he ought to think; but that he think moderately of himself, every man after God hath dealt out the measure of faith. 4. For even as in one body we have many members, but all the members have not one business, 5. So then we many are one body in Christ: but one is another's member. 6. And have many gifts according to the grace that is given unto us. (Epistle on the second Sunday after Epiphany.) 7. If any man have prophecy, let it be like unto faith. If any man have an office, let him wait for the office. If any man teach, let him wait for the teaching. 8. If any man exhort, let him wait for exhortation. If any man give, let him give plainly. If anyone governs, let him be diligent. If any man show mercy, let him do it with pleasure. (Epistle on the day of the Visitation.) 9. Let not love be false. Hate what is bad, cling to what is good. 10. Let brotherly love be cordial one to another. Let one precede the other with reverence. 11. Be not slothful in the things which ye shall do. Be fervent in spirit. Send yourselves into the time. 12. Be joyful in hope; patient in tribulation, persevering in prayer. 13. Attend ye to the needs of the saints. Be glad to give hospitality. 14. Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not. 15. Rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with them that weep. 16. Have one mind among yourselves. Do not seek after high things, but hold yourselves down to the lowly. (Epistle on the third Sunday after Epiphany. 17. Think not thyself wise. Do not repay evil with evil. Be diligent to be respectable to everyone. 18. If it be possible, as much as is in you, be at peace with all men. 19. Avenge not yourselves, my beloved, but give place unto wrath: for it is written: Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the LORD. 20. If therefore thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink. If thou do this, thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head. 21. Let not evil overcome thee, but overcome evil with good]. (Romans) Chapter 13 How to behave against the authorities, your neighbour and yourself. 1. Let every man be subject unto the authority that hath power over him. For there is no authority without from God; but where there is authority, it is ordained by God. 2. Whosoever therefore shall set himself in opposition to the authorities, opposeth the ordinance of God: but they that oppose shall receive judgment of themselves. 3. For the mighty are not to be feared for good works, but for evil. But if thou wilt not fear the authorities, do good, and thou shalt have praise of them; 4. For she is God's servant, too good for thee. But if thou do evil, fear: for she beareth not the sword in vain: she is the servant of God, an avenger of punishment upon him that doeth evil. 5. Be subject therefore for necessity, not for punishment only, but also for conscience' sake. 6. For this cause ye must also give them wombs: for they are the servants of God, who shall have such protection. 7. Render therefore to every man his due: to the womb his due, to the toll his due, to the fear his due, to the honour his due. Honour is due. (Epistle on the fourth Sunday after Epiphany.) 8. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9. For that which is said, Thou shalt not commit adultery; thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not steal; thou shalt not bear false witness; thou shalt not lust after any other commandment, is written in this word, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: 10. Love does no harm to its neighbour. So then, love is the fulfillment of the law. (Epistle on the first Sunday of Advent.) 11. And because we know these things, that the time is come for us to awake out of sleep, because our salvation is now nearer than when we believed, 12. The night is past, and the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. 13. Let us walk uprightly as in the day, not in eating and drinking, not in chambering and fornication, not in strife and envying. 14. But draw ye near unto the Lord Jehovah Christ, and wait for the body, but that it be not made lustful]. (Romans) Chapter 14 How to act against the weak believers. 1. Receive him that is weak in faith, and confound not your consciences. 2. One thinketh he may eat all things: but he that is weak eateth herbs. 3. He that eateth, let him not despise him that eateth not: and he that eateth not, let him not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. 4. Who art thou that judgest a strange servant? He standeth or falleth before his lord. But he may be raised up: for God is able to raise him up. 5. One keepeth one day before another: but another keepeth all days alike. Every man is sure of his own mind. 6. He that keepeth the days doeth it unto the LORD: and he that keepeth nothing doeth it unto the LORD. He that eateth, eateth unto the LORD: for he giveth thanks unto God. He that eateth not eateth not unto the LORD, and giveth thanks unto God. 7. For ours is not a living unto itself, neither is it a dying unto itself. 8. If we live, we live unto the LORD: if we die, we die unto the LORD. Dam we live, or die, we are the Lord's. 9. For to this end Christ also died, and rose again, and came to life, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. 10. But thou, why judgest thou thy brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? We shall all be presented before the judgment seat of Christ, 11. Forasmuch as it is written, As I live, saith the LORD, every knee shall bow unto me, and every tongue shall confess unto GOD. 12. Every man therefore shall give account unto God for himself. 13. Therefore let us no more judge one another, but rather let us judge, that no man give offence or offense to his brother. 14. I know and am persuaded in the Lord JESUS, that nothing is common in itself: unless he reckon it common, to him it is common. 15. But if thy brother be grieved for thy meat, then thou walkest not after love. Dearly beloved, spoil not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. 16. Therefore see that your treasure be not blasphemed. 17. For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18. Whosoever serveth Christ therein is acceptable unto God, and worthy of men. 19. Let us therefore strive after those things which make for peace, and for the betterment of one another. Let us therefore pursue that which is for peace, and that which is for the betterment of one another. 20. Dearly beloved, do not for the food's sake destroy the work of God. All things are pure, but it is not good for him who eats it with the stumbling of his conscience. 21. It is better that thou eat no flesh, and drink no wine, or that at which thy brother offendeth, or is vexed, or fainteth. 22. If thou hast faith, have it with thyself before God. Blessed is he who has no conscience in what he accepts. 23. But whosoever doubteth, and eateth, is condemned: for it is not of faith. But that which is not of faith is sin. (Romans) Chapter 15 Why the weak in faith are to be borne with patience, and how to come to the Christian life. 1. But we which are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to have pleasure in ourselves. 2. But let every one of us so set himself to please his neighbour for good, for correction. 3. For even Christ had no pleasure in himself, but as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproach thee are fallen upon me. (Epistle on the Second Sunday of Advent.) 4. But those things which are written aforetime are written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. 5. But God of patience and comfort grant you to be of one mind with one another according to JESUS CHRIST, 6. That ye may with one accord praise God, and the Father of our Lord JEsu Christ. 7. Receive ye one another, even as Christ received you unto the praise of God. 8. But I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promise made to the fathers, 9. And that the heathen should praise God for mercy, as it is written, Therefore will I praise thee among the heathen, and sing unto thy name. 10. And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. 11. And again, Praise ye the LORD, all ye nations; and glorify him, all ye peoples. 12. And again saith Isaiah, It shall be the root of Jesse, and he that shall rise again to rule over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles hope. 13. But may God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that you may have full hope through the power of the Holy Spirit]. 14. But I know almost well of you, brethren, that ye yourselves are full of knowledge, filled with all understanding, that ye may admonish one another. 15. Nevertheless I have dared to write something to you, brethren, to remind you, for the grace which is given me of God, 16. That I should be a minister of Christ among the Gentiles, to offer the gospel of God, that the Gentiles might become a sacrifice acceptable unto God, sanctified by the Holy Ghost. 17. Therefore I can boast in Jesus Christ, that I serve God. 18. For I ought not to speak any thing, except the same Christ work through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience by word and work, 19. By the power of signs and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem, and round about, even unto Illyria, I have filled everything with the gospel of Christ, 20. And made me particularly zealous to preach the gospel where Christ's name was not known, lest I should build upon a strange foundation. 21. But as it is written, To whomsoever he hath not spoken, they shall see; and they that have not heard, they shall understand. 22. This also is the cause why I am often prevented from coming unto you. 23. But now I have no more room in these lands, but have longed to come unto you from many years: 24. When I go into Spain, I will come unto you. For I hope to pass through there, and to see you, and to be led thither by you, but first to enjoy myself a little with you. 25. But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. 26. For they of Macedonia and Achaia have willingly laid a common tax together for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. 27. They have done it willingly, and are also their debtors. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual goods, it is right that they should give them prove service also in bodily goods. 28. When therefore I have performed these things, and have sealed unto them this fruit, I will go through you into Spain. 29. But I know, when I come unto you, that I shall come with the full blessing of the gospel of Christ. 30. Now I beseech you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love of the Spirit, that ye help me to fight, praying for me unto God, 31. That I may be saved from the unbelievers that are in Judea, and that my service which I do toward Jerusalem may be acceptable unto the saints, 32. That I may come to you with joy by the will of God, and be refreshed with you. 33. But the GOD of peace be with you all! Amen. (Romans) Chapter 16 Recommendation of Phoebe. Closing greetings, warning and thanks. 1. But I commend unto you our sister Phoebe, which is at the service of the church in Kenchreah, 2. That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh the saints, and assist her in all her business wherein she hath need of you. For she also hath assisted many, even myself. 3. Salute Priscilla and Aquila, my helpers in Christ JEsu, 4. Which have laid down their necks for my life; to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches among the Gentiles. 5. Hail also the church in her house. Salute Ephenethum, my beloved, which is the firstfruits of Achaia in Christ. 6. greet Mary, who has had much trouble and work with us. 7. Salute Andronicus and Junias, my friends, and my fellow prisoners, which are famous apostles, and were before me in Christ. 8. Salute Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. 9. Salute Urban, our helper in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. 10. Salute Apelles the approved in Christ. Salute them that are of the company of Aristobulus. 11. Salute Herodionus, my friend. Salute them that are of the company of Narcissus in the Lord. 12. Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Salute Persida, my beloved, who has labored much in the Lord. 13. Salute Rufus, the elect in the Lord, and his mother and mine. 14. Salute Asyncritus and Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren with them. 15. Salute Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints with them. 16. Greet one another with the holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you. 17. Now I beseech you, brethren, that ye take heed of them which cause divisions and offences beside the doctrine which ye have learned, and depart from them. 18. For such serve not the Lord JESUS Christ, but their own bellies: and with sweet words and fair speech they deceive the innocent heart. 19. For your obedience is sufficient among all men. Therefore I rejoice over you. But I will that ye be wise in good, but simple in evil. 20. But the God of peace tread Satan under your feet in a little while! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you! 21. Timotheus my assistant, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my friends, salute you. 22. I, Tertius, salute you, who have written this epistle, in the Lord. 23. Gaius, my host, and the host of the whole congregation, saluteth you. Greetings to you from Erastus, the town's steward, and Quartus, the brother. 24. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Jesus Christ be with you all! Amen. 25. But to him that is able to strengthen you according to my gospel, and the preaching of JESUS CHRIST, by which is made manifest the mystery that was hid from the world, 26. But now it is revealed, and made known by the scriptures of the prophets, by the commandment of the eternal God, to establish the obedience of faith among all nations: 27. To the same God, who alone is wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever and ever. Amen. Sent to the Romans from Corinth through Phoebe, who was ministering to the church at Kenchrea. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first letter of Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians) ^ Chapter 1 1. Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and brother Sosthenes: 2. To the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ JEsu, to the saints which are called, and to all them that call upon the name of our Lord JEsu Christ in all their places, and in ours. 3. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 4. I thank my God always for the grace of God which is given unto you in Christ Jesus, 5. That through him ye might be enriched in all things, in all doctrine, and in all knowledge. 6. How then the preaching of Christ was strengthened in you, 7. So that ye have no lack of any gift, waiting only for the revelation of our Lord JEsu Christ. 8. Who also shall keep you steadfast unto the end, that ye should be blameless unto the day of our Lord JEsu Christ. 9. For God is faithful, by whom ye are called unto the fellowship of his Son JEsu Christ our Lord. 10. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord JESUS CHRIST, that ye all speak one word, and that ye be not divided among yourselves, but hold fast one to another in one mind and in one opinion. 11. For it is come to me, brethren, by them that are of Chloe's company among you, that there is strife among you. 12. But I say of this, that one of you saith, I am Pauline; another, I am Apollonian: I am Apollian; the third: I am Cephish; the fourth: I am Christian. 13. How then is Christ divided? Is Paul crucified unto you, or are ye baptized in Paul's name? 14. I thank GOD that I baptized none of you save Crispus and Gaius, 15. Lest any man say that I have baptized in my name. 16. And I also baptized the household of Stephen: after that I know not whether I baptized some others. 17. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wise words, lest the cross of Christ should be made void. 18. For the word of the cross is foolishness to them that perish: but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 19. For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will reject the understanding of the prudent. 20. Where are the wise? Where are the scribes? Where are the worldly wise? Has not God made the wisdom of this world foolishness? 21. For because the world by its wisdom knew not God in his wisdom, it pleased God by foolish preaching to save them that believe, 22. For the Jews ask for signs, and the Greeks for wisdom. 23. But we preach Christ crucified, a stumblingblock to the Jews, and foolishness to the Greeks: 24. But to them that are called, both Jews and Greeks, we preach Christ divine power and wisdom. 25. For godly foolishness is wiser than men are, and godly weakness is stronger than men are. 26. Consider, brethren, your calling: not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. 27. But whatsoever is foolish in the sight of the world, that hath God chosen to destroy the wise: and whatsoever is weak in the sight of the world, that hath God chosen to destroy that which is strong; 28. And that which was base before the world, and that which was despised, hath God chosen, and that which is not, to destroy that which is, 29. That no flesh should glory before him. 30. From whom also ye come in Christ JESUS, who is made unto us of GOD unto wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption, 31. That whosoever shall boast may boast of the Lord, as it is written. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 2 1. And I, brethren, when I came unto you, came not with high words or wisdom to preach unto you the divine preaching. 2. For I thought not that I knew any thing among you, save Jesus Christ crucified. 3. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in great trembling. 4. And my word and my preaching was not in reasoning discourses of human wisdom, but in moving of the Spirit and of power, 5. That your faith may not be in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 6. But what we speak of is wisdom in the perfect; not the wisdom of this world, nor of the rulers of this world, which perish; 7. but We speak of the secret, hidden wisdom of God, which God ordained before the world for our glory, 8. Which none of the rulers of this world knew: for if they had known them, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory; 9. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10. But unto us God hath revealed it by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, even the depths of the Godhead. 11. For what man knoweth that which is in man, without the spirit of man which is in him? So also no one knows what is in God without the Spirit of God. 12. Now we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit from God, that we might know the things which are given us of God. 13. Which also we speak, not with words which man's wisdom can teach, but with words which the Holy Ghost teacheth, judging spiritual things spiritually. 14. But the natural man heareth not of the Spirit of God: it is foolishness unto him, and he cannot know it: for it must be spiritually directed. 15. But the minister judgeth all things, and is judged of none. 16. For who hath known the mind of the LORD, or who will instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 3 Teachers are servants, Tillers and builders. The Lord and basis of salvation is Christ. 1. And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2. Milk have I given you to drink, and not meat: for ye could not yet; neither can ye yet, 3. While ye are yet carnal. For since there is zeal and strife and dissension among you, are ye not carnal, and walk after the manner of men? 4. For if one saith, I am Paul, and another saith, I am Apollos, are ye not carnal? 5. Who then is Paul? Who is Apollo? Servants are they by whom ye believed, and the same as the Lord hath given to every one. 6. I planted, Apollo watered, but God gave the flourishing. 7. Now therefore neither he that planteth, nor he that watereth, is any thing, but GOD that giveth prosperity. 8. But he that planteth, and he that watereth, is one like another. But every man shall receive his reward according to his work. 9. for we are God's co-workers; you are God's field and God's building. 10. I of the grace of God, which am given unto me, have laid the foundation, as a wise master builder; and another buildeth thereon. But let every man see how he buildeth thereon. 11. For no other foundation can any man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12. But if any man build upon this foundation gold, or silver, or precious stones, or wood, or hay, or stubble, 13. Then shall every man's work be made manifest: the day shall make it plain. For it shall be revealed by fire: and whatsoever work any man doeth, the fire shall prove it. 14. If any man's work remain, which he hath built upon it, he shall receive reward. 15. But if any man's work be burned, he shall suffer loss; but he himself shall be saved, as by fire. 16. Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17. If any man destroy the temple of God, God will destroy him: for the temple of God is holy: ye are the temple of God. 18. Let no man deceive himself. Whosoever among you shall think himself wise, let him be a fool in this world, that he may be wise. 19. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written: He exalteth the wise in their prudence. 20. And again, The LORD knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. 21. Therefore let no man boast! It is all yours, 22. Whether it be Paul or Apollos, whether it be Cephas or the world, whether it be life or death, whether it be things present or things to come: all things are yours. 23. But ye are Christ's; but Christ is God's. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 4 1. For this reason let everyone consider us, namely, Christ's servants and stewards of God's mysteries. 2. Now seek no more in the stewards, but that they be found faithful. 3. But it is nothing to me that I should be judged of you, or that I should be judged of any man's day: neither do I judge myself. 4. I am conscious of nothing, but in this I am not justified: but it is the LORD that judgeth me. 5. Therefore judge not before the time, until the LORD come, who also shall bring to light that which is hid in darkness, and shall make manifest the counsel of the heart: and then shall praise be to every one from GOD. 6. Now these things, brethren, I have signified unto myself and unto Apollos for your sakes, that ye may learn of us, that no man thinketh more highly of himself than is now written, lest one puff himself up against another for any man's sake. 7. For who hath preferred thee? And what hast thou that thou hast not received? But if thou hast received it, why dost thou glory in it, as if thou hadst not received it? 8. Ye have been filled already; ye have been made rich already; ye reign without us. And God would have you reign, that we also might reign with you. 9. But I hold that God hath presented us apostles as the very least, delivered unto death. For we have become a spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men. 10. We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ: we are weak, but ye are strong: ye are glorious, but we are despised. 11. Unto this hour we hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are beaten, and have no certain place. 12. And we work and labour with our own hands. We are reproached, but we bless; we are persecuted, but we endure; we are blasphemed, but we beseech. 13. we are always as a curse of the world and a fegopfer of all people. 14. I write not these things to reproach you, but to exhort you as my dear children. 15. For though ye have ten thousand taskmasters in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers. For I have begotten you in Christ Jesus through the gospel. 16. Therefore I exhort you, Be ye followers of me. 17. For the same cause have I sent unto you Timothy, who is my dear and faithful son in the Lord, that he should remind you of my ways which are in Christ, even as I teach in all places in all churches. 18. There are some that puff themselves up, as if I would not come unto you. 19. But I will come unto you very lately, if the LORD will; and learn not the words of the puffed-up, but the power. 20. For the kingdom of God is not in words, but in power. 21. What do you want? Shall I come to you with the rod, or with love and a gentle spirit? (1 Corinthians) Chapter 5 1. There is a common cry that fornication is among you, and such fornication as the heathen know not how to say, that one hath his father's wife. 2. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather borne affliction, that he that did the work might be done by you. 3. I indeed, being absent in body, but present in spirit, have already decided as present concerning him whom these things have done: 4. in the name of our Lord JEsu Christ, in your assembly with my Spirit and with the power of our Lord JEsu Christ. 5. To deliver him up unto Satan to the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit might be saved in the day of JESUS the LORD. 6. your glory is not fine. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 7. Therefore purge out the old leaven, that ye may be a new dough, even as ye are unleavened. For we also have a paschal lamb, which is Christ, sacrificed for us. 8. Let us therefore keep the passover, not in the old leaven, neither in the leaven of malice and wickedness, but in the sweet dough of sincerity and truth. 9. I wrote unto you in the epistle, that ye should have nothing to do with harlots. 10. This I mean not at all of the harlots of this world, or of the covetous, or of the robbers, or of the idolaters; otherwise ye must leave the world. 11. But now I have written unto you, that ye should have nothing to do with them: for if any man be called a brother, and be a whoremonger, or a covetous man, or an idolater, or a profane man, or a drunkard, or a robber, with him ye shall not eat. 12. For what have I to do with them that are without, that I should judge them? Judge ye not them that are within? 13. But God shall judge them that are without. Put out from yourselves those who are evil! (1 Corinthians) Chapter 6 1. How is it that any of you, if he hath a bargain with another, should grieve before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? 2. Know ye not that the saints shall judge the world? If then the world be judged of you, are ye not good enough to judge lesser things? 3. Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more temporal goods! 4. But ye, when ye have matters of temporal goods, take them that are despised of the congregation, and set them for judges. 5. To your shame I must say this. Is there no wise man among you, or is there not one who can judge between brother and brother? 6. But one brother contendeth with another, and before the unbelievers. 7. It is already a fault among you, that ye reason one with another. Why would ye not rather be wronged? Why do ye not rather take advantage of one another? 8. But ye do wrong, and take advantage, and that to the brethren. 9. Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither the harlots, nor the idolaters, nor the adulterers, nor the wimps, nor the abusers of children. 10. Nor the thieves, nor the covetous, nor the drunkards, nor the blasphemers, nor the robbers, shall inherit the kingdom of GOD. 11. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, ye are sanctified, ye are justified by the name of JESUS the LORD, and by the Spirit of our GOD. 12. I have all power; but all is not good. I have all the power, but nothing shall take me captive. 13. The meat of the incense, and the belly of the meat: but God shall put to death both such and such. And the body not to fornication, but to the LORD; and the LORD to the body. 14. But God hath raised up the Lord, and will also raise us up by his power. 15. Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them whores' members? Far be it from me! 16. Or know ye not, that he that cleaveth to the harlot is one body with her? For they shall be two in one flesh, saith he. 17. But he that believeth in the LORD is one spirit with him. 18. Flee fornication. All sins that a man doeth are without his body: but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19. Or know ye not that your body is a temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of GOD, and are not yourselves? 20. For ye are dearly purchased. Therefore praise God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 7 1. But of whom ye wrote unto me, I answer, It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2. But for fornication let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3. Let the husband render unto the wife the friendship due, and likewise the wife unto the husband. 4. The woman is not mighty in her womb, but the man. In the same way, the man is not powerful in his body, but the woman is. 5. Withdraw not one from another, except it be by the consent of both for a season, that ye may have leisure for fasting and prayer: and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your unchastity. 6. But I say these things out of favour, and not out of commandment. 7. But I would rather all men were as I am: but every man hath his own gift from God, one so, and another so. 8. Though I say unto the single, and to widows, It is good for them, if they also abide as I abide. 9. But if they abstain not, let them be free: it is better to be free, than to be in heat. 10. Now unto the married, I command not, but the LORD, that the wife put not away her husband. 11. But if she separate, that she be left without marriage, or be reconciled to her husband, and that the husband put not away the wife. 12. But unto the rest I say, not unto the Lord, If a brother have an unbelieving wife, and she please to dwell with him, let him not put her away. 13. And if a woman have an unbelieving husband, and he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not put her away from him. 14. For the unbelieving man is sanctified through the woman, and the unbelieving woman is sanctified through the man. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. 15. But if the unbeliever divorce himself, let him divorce himself. The brother or sister is not caught in such cases. But in peace God has called us. 16. But what knowest thou, O woman, whether thou wilt save the man? Or what knowest thou, O man, whether thou wilt save the woman? 17. But as God hath dealt to every man. Every man as the Lord hath called him, so let him walk. And so I do in all the churches. 18. If any man be called circumcised, let him not be circumcised. If any man be called in the foreskin, let him not be circumcised. 19. Circumcision is nothing, and the foreskin is nothing, but keeping God's commandments; 20. Let every man continue in the profession wherein he is called. 21. If thou art called a servant, be not anxious: but if thou canst be free, much more need it. 22. For he that is called a servant in the LORD is a soldier of the LORD: likewise he that is called a freeman is a servant of Christ. 23. Ye are dearly bought; become not the servants of men. 24. Every man, brethren, in that wherein he is called, let him abide with God. 25. But of virgins I have no commandment from the LORD: but I speak my mind, when I have obtained mercy of the LORD, to be faithful. 26. I think therefore that it is good for the present necessity, that it should be good for a man to be so. 27. If thou be bound unto a wife, seek not to be loosed: but if thou be loosed from a wife, seek no wife. 28. But if thou freest, thou sinest not: and if a virgin freeth, she sinneth not: but such shall have tribulation of the flesh. But I spare you gladly. 29. But this I say, brethren, that the time is short. And this is the opinion: They that have wives are as though they had none, and they that weep are as though they wept not, 30. And they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not, 31. And they that use this world, that they abuse it not: for the nature of this world passeth away. 32. But I would that ye were without care. He that is free, let him take heed to the things that belong unto the LORD, how he may please the LORD. 33. But he that is free careth for the things of the world, how he may please the woman. There is a difference between a woman and a virgin. 34. She that is not free careth for the things that pertain unto the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is free careth for the things that pertain unto the world, that she may please the man. 35. But these things say I for your profit; not that I cast a snare upon you, but that it may be fine, and that ye may serve the LORD always and freely. 36. But if any man think that it is not right with his virgin, because she is manly, and will not be otherwise, let him do what he will: he sinneth not, but letteth her go free. 37. But if any man, being at liberty, and having his own will, resolves in his heart to keep his virgin, he doeth well. 38. Finally, he that is married doeth well; but he that is not married doeth better. 39. A woman is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth: but if her husband die, she is free to marry whom she will; only that it be done in the LORD. 40. But it is more blessed where it abideth, according to my opinion. But I hold, I also have the Spirit of God. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 8 1. But of the sacrifice made to idols we know: for we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up; but love mendeth. 2. But if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth not yet how he ought to know. 3. But if any man love God, he is known of him. 4. We know therefore of the meat of the sacrifice made to idols, that there is no idol in the world, neither is there any other God without some. 5. And though they be called gods, whether in heaven, or in earth, yet there be many gods, and many lords: 6. We have one God the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 7. But not every man hath knowledge. For some still make a conscience over the idol, and eat it for sacrifices made to idols: so their conscience, being so weak, is tainted. 8. But food doth not profit us in the sight of God. If we eat, we shall not be better for it; if we do not eat, we shall not be less for it. 9. But take heed that this liberty of yours be not an offence to the weak. 10. For if thou, which hast knowledge, seest any man sitting at meat in the house of idols, shall not his conscience, because he is weak, cause him to eat things sacrificed unto idols? 11. And so over thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died. 12. But if ye thus sin against the brethren, and smite their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. 13. Therefore if the meat offended my brother, I would eat no more meat, lest I should offend my brother. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 9 1. Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen our Lord Jesus Christ? Are ye not my workmanship in the Lord? 2. Though I be not an apostle to others, yet am I your apostle: for the seal of my apostleship are ye in the Lord. 3. Thus, when I am asked, I answer: 4. have we not power to eat and drink? 5. Have we not power to take a sister to wife with us, as the rest of the apostles, and the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? 6. Or have not I and Barnaba alone power to do this? 7. What man ever goeth to war out of his own pay? Who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? 8. But do I speak these things in the manner of men? Does not the law also say these things? 9. For in the law of Moses it is written: Thou shalt not bind up the mouth of the bullock that treadeth therein. Does God take care of the oxen? 10. Or saith he not all for our sakes? For it is written for our sakes. For he that ploweth shall plow for hope; and he that thresheth shall thresh for hope, that he may be partaker of his hope. 11. If we sow you spiritual things, is it a great matter whether we reap your bodily things? 12. But if others are partakers of this power in you, why not much more we? But we have not used such power, but have endured all things, that we should not be a hindrance to the gospel of Christ. 13. Know ye not that they which sacrifice eat of the sacrifice, and they which keep the altar eat of the altar? 14. So also the LORD commanded that they which preach the gospel should feed on the gospel. 15. But I have not needed any of these. I also do not write about it so that it should be kept with me. I would rather die than that no one should destroy my fame. 16. For that I preach the gospel, I cannot boast; for I must do it. And woe is me, if I preach not the gospel! 17. If I do it gladly, I shall be rewarded: but if I do it unwillingly, yet the office is commanded me. 18. What then is my reward? To preach the gospel of Christ, and to do it freely, that I may not abuse my liberty in the gospel. 19. For though I am free from all men, yet have I made myself the servant of all men, that I may gain them much. 20. To the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win the Jews. To them that are under the law have I become as under the law, that I might win them that are under the law. 21. To them that are without law have I become as without law (though I am not without law before God, but am in the law of Christ), that I might win them that are without law. 22. To the weak I became as a weak man, that I might win the weak. I am become all things to all men, that I might save some in all places. 23. But these things do I for the gospel's sake, that I may be partaker of it. 24. Know ye not that they which run in the stocks run all, but one getteth the jewel? Run therefore, that ye may take it. 25. But every one that fighteth abstaineth from all things: so that they receive a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. 26. But I run thus, not as into the unknown; I fence thus, not as he that sweepeth into the air, 27. But I stupefy my body, and tame it, lest I preach to others, and become reprobate myself. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 10 1. But I will not, brethren, forbid you, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and 1-were all passed through the sea. 2. And were all baptized under Moses with the cloud, and with the sea; 3. And they have all eaten the same spiritual meat. 4. And they all drank of the same spiritual drink: but they drank of the spiritual rock which followed, which was Christ. 5. But in their many God was not pleased; for they are cast down in the wilderness. 6. And this is done for an ensample unto us, that we should not lust after evil, as they lusted. 7. Neither be ye idolaters, as some were, when it was written, The people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play. 8. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed fornication, and fell in one day twenty and three thousand. 9. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them tempted him, and were killed of serpents. 10. Neither murmur, as some murmured, and were destroyed by the destroyer. 11. All these things happened unto them for an ensample: but it is written for a warning unto us, that the end of the world is come. 12. Therefore whosoever shall think that he standeth, let him take heed that he fall not. 13. None but man's temptation hath yet entered upon you: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above your ability, but will make the temptation to cease, that ye may be able to bear it. 14. Therefore, my. Beloved, flee from idolatry! 15. As with the wise I speak; judge ye what I say. 16. The blessed cup which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 17. For one bread it is: so are we many one body, in that we are all partakers of one bread. 18. Consider Israel after the flesh. Which eat the sacrifices, are they not in the fellowship of the altar? 19. What then shall I say? Shall I say that the idol is something, or that the sacrifice to the idol is something? 20. But I say, that what the heathen sacrifice, they sacrifice unto devils, and not unto God. Now I would not that ye should be in the company of devils. 21. Ye cannot both drink the cup of the LORD, and the cup of devils: ye cannot both partake of the table of the LORD, and of the table of devils. 22. Or shall we defy the LORD? Are we stronger than he? 23. I have all power, but all is not well. I have it all power; but it mendeth not all things. 24. Let no man seek his own, but let every man seek his own. 25. Whatsoever is found in the market of meats, eat it not, neither search it out; that ye may spare your consciences. 26. For the earth is the LORD'S, and the things that are therein. 27. But if any of the unbelievers invite you, and ye will go, eat all that is set before you, and search nothing, that ye may be spared of conscience. 28. But if any man say unto you, This is an offering made unto idols; eat it not, because he shewed it; that ye may be spared in conscience. The earth is the LORD's, and all that is therein. 29. But I say of conscience, not thine own, but another's. For why should I let my liberty be judged by another man's conscience? 30. For if I enjoy it with thanksgiving, what shall I be blasphemed above that for which I give thanks? 31. Ye eat therefore, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do it all to the glory of God. 32. Be not angry neither with the Jews nor with the Greeks nor with the church of God, 33. Even as I please every man in all things, seeking not that which is good for me, but that which is good for many, that they may be saved. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 11 1. be my followers, as I am of Christ! 2. I commend you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the manner which I have given you. . 3. But I would have you know that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of the woman: but God is the head of Christ. 4. Every man that prayeth or prophesieth, having any thing upon his head, defileth his head. 5. But a woman praying or prophesying with her head uncovered defileth her head: for it is as much as if she were shaven. 6. If she will not cover herself, cut off her hair also. But if it be evil for a woman to have her hair cut, or to be shaven, let her cover her head. 7. But the man shall not cover his head, because he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. 8. For the man is not of the woman, but the woman is of the man. 9. And the man was not created for the woman's sake: but the woman for the man's sake. 10. Therefore the woman shall have power upon her head for the angels' sakes. 11. But neither is the man without the woman, nor the woman without the man in the LORD. 12. For as the woman cometh of the man, so also the man cometh. Man comes through woman, but everything comes from God. 13. Judge for yourselves whether it is right for a woman to pray before God uncovered. 14. Or doth not nature teach you, that it is an dishonour to a man to beget long hair, 15. and an honour to a woman to beget long hair? The hair is given her for a covering. 16. But if there be any among you that desire to quarrel, let him know that we have no such manner, neither have the churches of God. 17. But this I must command: I cannot commend it, that ye come together, not in a better way, but in a worse. 18. First, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and in part I believe it. 19. For there must be divisions among you, that they which are righteous ‡ may be manifest among you. 20. When ye therefore come together, they keep not the supper of the Lord. 21. For when they take supper, every man taketh his own before, and one is hungry, and another is drunken. 22. Have ye not houses where ye may eat and drink? Or do ye despise the congregation of God, and put to shame them that have nothing? What shall I say unto you? Shall I praise you? In this I praise you not. 23. I have received of the LORD that which I gave you. For the Lord Jesus, in the night that he was betrayed, took bread, 24. And gave thanks, and brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body which is broken for you. This do in remembrance of me. 25. And likewise the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood. This do, as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 26. For as often as ye eat of this bread, and drink of this cup, ye shall proclaim the death of the LORD, until he come. 27. Whosoever therefore shall eat of this bread, or drink of the cup of the LORD, unworthily, is guilty of the body and blood of the LORD. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of this bread, and drink of this cup. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh judgment to himself, because he distinguisheth not the body of the LORD. 30. For this cause also there are many among you that are sick and weak, and a good part sleep. 31. For if we judge ourselves, we shall not be judged. 32. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the LORD, that we should not be condemned with the world. 33. Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, wait one for another. 34. But if any man hunger, let him eat at home, lest ye come together for judgment. The rest will I set in order when I come. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 12 1. But of spiritual gifts I will not restrain you, brethren. 2. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, and that ye went unto dumb idols, as ye were led. 3. Therefore I make known unto you, that no man curseth Jesus which speaketh by the Spirit of God: neither can any man call Jesus Lord, except it be by the Holy Ghost. 4. There are many gifts, but there is one Spirit. 5. And there are divers ministries, but there is one LORD. 6. And there are divers powers, but there is one God, which worketh all in all. 7. In every one the gifts of the Spirit are manifested for the common good. 8. To one is given by the Spirit to speak wisdom, and to another to speak knowledge, according to the same Spirit; 9. To another, faith in the same Spirit; to another, the gift of healing in the same Spirit; 10. To another to do miracles; to another to prophesy; to another to discern spirits; to another to discern divers tongues; to another to interpret tongues. 11. And all these things worketh the same one Spirit, dividing to every man his own according to his will. 12. For as one body is, and hath many members; and all the members of one body, though they be many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Greeks, whether we be bond or free; and are all made to drink into one Spirit. 14. For even the body is not one member, but many. 15. But if the foot should say, I am not a hand, therefore I am not a member of the body; shall it not for this cause be a member of the body? 16. And if the ear should say, I am not an eye; therefore am I not of the body; shall it not for this cause be of the body? 17. If the whole body were the eye, where would the hearing be? If it were all hearing, where would the smell be? 18. But now God hath set the members apart in the body, as he would have them. 19. But if all the members were one member, where would the body be? 20. Now the members are many, but the body is one. 21. The eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee; or again the head unto the feet: I have no need of you; 22. But rather, the members of the body, which seem to us to be the weakest, are the most necessary, 23. And they that seem to us to be the most unrighteous we do most honour to them: and they that seem to us to be evil we adorn most. 24. For they that are well disposed toward us have no need. But God hath thus mixed the body, and hath given the most honour unto the poorest part, 25. That there be no division in the body, but that the members care for one another alike. 26. And if one member suffer, all the members suffer with it: and if one member be kept glorious, all the members rejoice with it. 27. But ye are the body of Christ, and members every one according to his part. 28. And. God has placed in the church first the apostles, then the prophets, then the teachers, then the miracle workers, then the gifts to heal, the helpers, the governors, the various languages. 29. Are they all apostles? Are they all prophets? Are they all teachers? Are they all miracle workers? 3 30. Have they all gifts to make well? Do they all speak with divers tongues? Can they all interpret? 31. But strive for the best gifts. And I will show you yet a more delicious way. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 13 1. If I speak with the tongues of men, and with the tongues of angels, and have not love, I am sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2. And if I could prophesy, and know all mysteries, and all knowledge, and have all faith, so as to remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing. 3. And if I give all my goods to the poor, and let my body burn, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. 4. Love is longsuffering and kind; love is not jealous; love is not wanton; it is not puffed up; 5. She is not unruly; she seeks not her own; she is not provoked; she seeks not harm; 6. She rejoiceth not in iniquity; but rejoiceth in the truth; 7. she tolerates all things, she believes all things, she hopes all things, she endures all things. 8. Love never ceaseth, but prophecy shall cease, and tongues shall cease, and knowledge shall cease. 9. For our knowledge is fragmentary, and our prophesying is fragmentary. 10. But when that which is perfect shall come, then shall that which is in part cease. 11. When I was a child, I spake as a child, and was wise as a child, and had childish thoughts: but when I became a man, I put away those things which were childish. 12. We see now by a mirror in a dark word, but then face to face. Now I see in bits, but then I shall know even as I am known. 13. Now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but love is the greatest of these. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 14 1. Strive after love. Diligence yourselves to spiritual gifts, but most of all to prophesy. 2. For he that speaketh with the tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God. For no man heareth unto him: but in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 3. But he that knoweth speaketh unto men for correction, and for exhortation, and for comfort. 4. He that speaketh with tongues correcteth himself: but he that knoweth correcteth the church. 5. I would that ye all spake with tongues, but much more that ye prophesied. For he that prophesieth is greater than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may be edified thereby. 6. But now, brethren, if I came unto you speaking with tongues, what profit was I to you, if I spake not unto you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophecy, or by teaching? 7. Even so in those things which sound, and live not, whether it be a whistle or a harp; if they utter not divers voices, how can we know what is whistled, or what is harped? 8. And if the trumpet sound an uncertain note, who will make ready for the battle? 9. So likewise ye, if ye speak with tongues, if ye give not plain speech, how shall it be known what is spoken? For ye shall speak into the wind. 10. Though there be divers kinds of voices in the world, yet none of them is uncertain. 11. If therefore I know not the interpretation of the voice, I shall be un-German unto him that speaketh, and he that speaketh shall be un-German unto me. 12. So likewise ye, being diligent for spiritual gifts, seek to improve the church, that ye may have all things abundantly. 13. Therefore let him that speaketh with tongues pray that he may interpret. 14. And if I pray with tongues, my spirit prayeth: but my mind bringeth forth no fruit. Fifteen. But how should it be? Namely, thus: I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray also with the mind: I will sing psalms with the spirit, and I will sing psalms with the mind. 16. But if thou bless in the spirit, how shall he that standeth instead of the laity say 'Amen' unto thy thanksgiving, seeing he knoweth not what thou sayest? 17. Thou hast given thanks well, but the other is not made better. 18. I thank my God that I speak with tongues more than ye all. 19. But I will rather speak five words with my mind in the church, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words with tongues. 20. Brethren, be not children in understanding, but in wickedness be children: but in understanding be ye perfect. 21. It is written in the law: With other tongues and with other lips will I speak unto this people, and they shall not hear me," saith the LORD. 22. Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not; and prophecy, not to them that believe, but to them that believe. 23. If therefore the whole church were gathered together in one place, and all spake with tongues, and there came in laymen or unbelievers, would they not say that ye were senseless? 24. And if they all prophesy, and an unbeliever or a layman come in, he shall be punished of them all, and judged of them all. 25. And so the secret of his heart would be revealed, and he would fall on his face and worship God and confess that God is truly in you. 26. How is it then, brethren? When ye come together, every one hath psalms, he hath doctrine, he hath tongues, he hath revelation, he hath interpretation. Let it all be done for the better! 27. If any man speak with the tongue, or two, or three, one by one; let one lay it out. 28. But if he be not an interpreter, let him hold his peace among the congregation, and speak unto himself, and unto God: 29. But let the prophets speak, two or three, and let the rest judge. 30. But if one revelation be to another that sitteth, let the first hold his peace. 31. Ye may all prophesy one by one, that they may all learn, and that they may all be instructed. 32. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33. for God is not a God of disorder, but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. 34. Let your wives keep silence among the congregation: for it shall not be lawful for them to speak, but to be subject, as also saith the law. 35. But if they would learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home. It is evil for women to speak among the congregation. 36. Or is the word of God come out from you, or is it come to you alone? 37. If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him know what I write unto you: for they are the commandments of the LORD. 38. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39. Wherefore, brethren, be diligent to prophesy, and forbear not to speak with tongues. 40. Let everything be done honestly and properly! (1 Corinthians) Chapter 15 1. But I remind you, brethren, of the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye received, in the which also ye stand, 2. By which also ye are saved, which form I preached unto you, if ye have kept it, except ye have believed it in vain. 3. For I have given you first of all that which I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, 4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures, 5. And that he was seen of Cephas, and afterward of the twelve. 6. After this he was seen of more than five hundred brethren at one time, many of whom are yet alive, but some have fallen asleep. 7. After that he was seen of James, and after that of all the apostles. 8. At the last after all he was also seen of me, as of an untimely birth; 9. For I am the least of the apostles, as I am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10. But by the grace of God am I that I am; and his grace toward me was not in vain, but I labored much more than they all: not I, but the grace of God which is with me. 11. Whether it be I or they, so preach we, and so have ye believed. 12. But if Christ be preached that he is risen from the dead, how say some of you that the resurrection of the dead is nothing? 13. But if the resurrection of the dead be nothing, neither is Christ risen. 14. But if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and so is your faith. 15. And we also are found false witnesses unto God, that we have testified against God, that he hath raised up Christ, whom he hath not raised up, because the dead rise not. 16. For if the dead rise not, neither is Christ risen. 17. But if Christ be not risen, your faith is vain, ye are yet in your sins, 18. So they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are lost. 19. If we hope in Christ alone in this life, we are the most miserable of all men. 20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that sleep, 21. For by a man cometh death, and by a man the resurrection of the dead. 22. For as in Adam they all die, even so in Christ shall they all be made alive. 23. But every man in his own order. The firstfruits Christ, after that they which are Christ's, when he shall come. 24. After this the end, when he shall deliver up the kingdom to God and to the Father, when he shall abolish all rule and all authority and power. 25. But he must reign, until he put all his enemies under his feet. 26. The last enemy to be lifted up is death. 27. For he hath put all things under his feet. And when he saith that all things are put under him, it is evident that he is excepted that put all things under him. 28. And when all things shall be subject unto him, then shall the Son himself also be subject unto him that put all things under him, that GOD may be all in all. 29. What else do they that are baptized above the dead, if the dead rise not? Why are they baptized over the dead? 30. and what are we all hour in danger? 31. By the glory that I have in Christ our Lord, I die daily. 32. If I have fought with the wild beasts at Ephesus in the opinion of men, what shall it profit me if the dead rise not? Let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we shall be dead. 33. Be not deceived! Evil gossip corrupts good morals. 34. Be ye yet once right sober, and sin not: for some know not of GOD, that ‡ I say unto you to shame. 35. But will any man say, How shall the dead rise, and with what kind of body shall they come? 36. Thou fool, what thou sowest shall not live, except it die. 37. And that which thou sowest is not the body which is to be, but a mere grain of wheat, or of another. 38. But God giveth him a body according to his will, and to every one of the seed his own body. 39. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one flesh of man, and another of beast, and another of fish, and another of fowl. 40. And there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies. But another glory have the heavenly, and another the earthly. 41. The sun hath another brightness, the moon another brightness, the stars another brightness: for one star excelleth another in brightness. 42. So also the resurrection of the dead. It is sown corruptible, and shall rise incorruptible. 43. It is sown in dishonour, and shall rise in glory. It is sown in weakness, and shall rise in power. 44. A natural body is sown, and a spiritual body is raised. If one has a natural body, he also has a spiritual body, 45. As it is written, The first man Adam was made into the natural life, and the last Adam into the spiritual life. 46. But the spiritual body is not first, but the natural, afterward the spiritual. 47. The first man is of the earth, and earthy: the other man is the LORD from heaven. 48. As the earthly is, so are the earthly; and as the heavenly is, so are the heavenly. 49. And as we have borne the image of the earthly, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly. 50. And of this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit. Nor shall that which is temporal inherit that which is incorruptible, 51. Behold, I tell you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52. And the same suddenly, in a moment, at the time of the last trumpet. For the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall rise incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53. For that which is corruptible must put on that which is incorruptible, and that which is mortal must put on immortality. 54. And when this corruptible shall put on incorruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality, then shall it be fulfilled. The word that is written: 55. Death is entwined in victory. Death, where is thy sting? Hell, where is your victory? 56. But the sting of death is sin: but the power of sin is the law. 57. But thanks be to God, who has given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58. Wherefore, my brethren, be ye steadfast, immovable, always increasing in the work of the LORD, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the LORD. (1 Corinthians) Chapter 16 1. But of the taxation which is done unto the saints, as I have ordained for the churches which are in Galatia, so do ye also. 2. On every sabbath day lay up for yourselves every one of you, and gather that which seemeth him good: lest, when I come, the first thing that is to be gathered is the tax. 3. But if I be darkened, whom ye shall see by letters. I will send them, and they shall bring your good deeds unto Jerusalem. 4. But if it be worth my while to go, let them go with me. 5. But I will come unto you when I pass through Macedonia: for through Macedonia will I pass. 6. But with you I may abide, or I may winter, that ye may guide me whither I go. 7. I will not see you now as I pass by: for I hope to abide with you some time, if the LORD permit. 8. But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. 9. For a great door is opened unto me, which bringeth forth much fruit; and there are many abominable ones. 10. When Timothy cometh, see that he be with you without fear: for he also doeth the work of the Lord, as I do. 11. Lest any man despise him now. But lead him in peace, that he may come unto me: for I wait for him with the brethren. 12. Now concerning Apollos the brother, know that I exhorted him very much to come unto you with the brethren, and it was not his will at all that he should come now; but he will come when it shall be convenient for him. 13. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, be ye manly, and be ye strong. 14. Let all your things be done in love. 15. Now I beseech you, brethren, that ye know the house of Stephanas, that they are ‡ the firstfruits of Achaia, and have ordained themselves for the service of the saints, 16. That ye also may be subject unto them, and to all that work and labour. 17. I rejoice in the future of Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus: for where I have lacked of you, they have repaid. 18. They have refreshed my spirit and yours. Know ye them that are such! 19. The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla and the congregation in their house greet you greatly in the Lord. 20. All the brothers greet you. Greet one another with the holy kiss. 21. I, Paul, greet you with my hand. 22. If any man love not the Lord Jehovah Christ, let him be anathema, Maharam Motha. 23. The grace of the Lord JEsu Christ be with you. 24. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. The first epistle to the Corinthians, sent from Philippi, by Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus and Timotheus. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second letter to the Corinthians of Paul (2 Corinthians) ^ Chapter 1 Paul's patience in persecution. 1. Paul, an apostle of JESUS Christ by the will of GOD, and brother Timothy: To the church of GOD at Corinth, with all the saints throughout Achaia. 2. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercy and the God of all comfort, 4. Who comforteth us in all our afflictions, that we may comfort them also which are in all our afflictions with consolation, that we may be comforted of GOD. 5. For as we have much of the passion of Christ, even so we are abundantly comforted through Christ. 6. But if we have affliction or comfort, it is for your good. If it be affliction, it is for your comfort and salvation: which salvation is proved, if ye suffer with patience as we suffer. If it be comfort, it shall be unto you for comfort and salvation. 7. And let our hope stand firm for you, knowing that as ye are partakers of affliction, so shall ye also be partakers of consolation. 8. For we will not forbear you, brethren, our affliction, which was with us in Asia, when we were exceeding heavy, and exceeding mighty, so that we also despaired of life. 9. and had decided with ourselves that we must die. But this was because we did not put our trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead, 10. Who hath delivered us from this death, and delivereth us every day: and we hope in him that he will deliver us also henceforth. 11. By the help of your intercession for us, that much thanksgiving may be given upon us for the gift that is given to us, through many persons. 12. For our glory is this, that our conscience bears witness, that we have walked in simplicity and godly integrity, not in carnal wisdom, but in the grace of God in the world, and most of all with you. 13. For we write no other things unto you, but what ye read and find. But I hope that ye will find us even unto the end, even as ye have found us in part. 14. For we are your glory, even as ye are our glory in the day of JESUS the LORD. 15. And in this confidence I thought to come unto you at that time, that ye might receive a benefit, 16. And I journeyed by you into Macedonia, and came again out of Macedonia unto you, and was led of you into Judaea. 17. But have I used levity in thinking these things, or are my judgments carnal? Not so; but with me yea is yea, and nay is nay. 18. But, O faithful God, that our word to you had not been yea and nay! 19. For the Son of God, JESUS Christ, which is preached among you by us, by me, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, was not yea and nay; but yea was in him. 20. For all the promises of God are yea in him, and are amen in him, to the praise of God through us. 21. But it is God that hath established us together with you in Christ, and hath anointed us. 22. And sealed, and put in our hearts the pledge, the Spirit. 23. But I call God to witness upon my soul, that I have spared you in that I came not again to Corinth. 24. Not that we are lords over your faith, but that we are the helpers of your joy: for ye stand by faith. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 2 Readmission of the penitent sinner. 1. But I thought such things of myself, that I should not come again unto you in sadness. 2. For if I make you sad, who is he that maketh me glad, without he that is made sad by me? 3. And these things have I written unto you, lest, when I came, I should be sorrowful, whereof I should rejoice; for I promise this unto you all, that my joy shall be the joy of you all. 4. For I wrote unto you in great affliction and anguish of heart with many tears, not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have especially unto you. 5. But if any man hath caused any affliction, he hath not afflicted me without in part, lest I should afflict you all. 6. But it is enough that he is thus punished of many. 7. That ye henceforth more abundantly pardon and comfort him, lest he sink into too great sorrow. 8. Wherefore I exhort you to shew love toward him. 9. For this cause also have I written unto you, to know whether ye are righteous to be obedient in all things. 10. But whosoever ye forgive, I forgive him also. For I also, if I forgive any thing, forgive it for your sakes in Christ's stead, 11. That we be not taken in hand by Satan: for we are not ignorant of what he hath in mind. 12. And when I was come to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ, a door was opened unto me in the Lord, 13. I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but I made my departure with them, and went out into Macedonia. 14. But thanks be to God, which always giveth us the victory in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 15. For we are unto God the good savour of Christ, both of them that are saved, and of them that are lost: 16. To these a smell of death unto death, and to those a smell of life unto life. And who is able to do this? 17. For we are not as some many, which pervert the word of God: but as of sincerity, and as of God, before God, speak we in Christ. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 3 Defending the evangelical preaching ministry. 1. Do we then begin again to praise ourselves? Or have we need, as some have, of letters of praise to you, or of letters of praise from you? 2. You are our letter, written in our hearts, to be known and read by all men, 3. Who have been made manifest that ye are the epistle of Christ, prepared by our preaching ministry, and written by us, not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God, not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. (Epistle on the twelfth Sunday after Trinity.) 4. But we have such confidence in God through Christ. 5. Not that we are able of ourselves to think anything but of ourselves, but that we are able is of GOD, 6.Who also hath made us able to do the ministry of the new testament, not of the letter, but of the spirit. For the letter killeth, but the Spirit quickeneth. 7. And the ministry, which killeth by letters, and is formed in stones, had clearness; so that the children of Israel could not look upon the face of Moses, because of the clearness of his countenance, which ceaseth, 8. how should not much more the office that gives the Spirit have clarity? 9. For if the ministry which preacheth condemnation have glory, much more hath the ministry which preacheth righteousness exceeding glory. 10. For even that part which was glorified is not to be reckoned clear against this exceeding clear. 11. For if that which ceaseth hath clearness, much more shall that which continueth have clearness]. 12. Forasmuch then as we have this hope, we have need of great joy. 13. And do not as Moses did, when he hanged the covering before his face, so that the children of Israel could not see the end of him that ceaseth. 14. But their minds are hardened: for unto this day the same covering remaineth uncovered over the Old Testament, when they read it, which ceaseth in Christ. 15. But to this day, when Moses is read, the ceiling hangs before their hearts. 16. But if he turn unto the LORD, the covering is taken away. 17. For the LORD is the Spirit. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18. But now in us all the glory of the Lord is reflected with unveiled face: and we are changed into the same image from glory to glory, as of the Spirit of the Lord. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 4 Fruitfulness of the gospel in believers struggling under the cross. 1. Wherefore, seeing we have such a ministry, after mercy hath been shown unto us, we are not weary 2. but also shun secret shame, and deal not with mischievousness, neither counterfeit the word of God, but with revelation of the truth, and prove ourselves well against all men's consciences before God. 3. If therefore our gospel be hid, it is hid in them that perish, 4. In whom the God of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, so that they do not see the bright light of the gospel of the clarity of Christ, who is the image of God. 5. For we preach not ourselves, but JESUS Christ, that he is the LORD: and we your servants for JESUS' sake. 6. For God, who caused the light to shine out of darkness, hath given a bright light in our hearts, that there might be an illumination of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (Epistle on St. Bartholomew's Day.) 7. But we have such treasure in earthly vessels, that the abundant power may be of God, and not of us. 8. We have tribulation in every place, but we are not afraid; we are afraid, but we do not despair; 9. We suffer persecution, but we are not forsaken; we are oppressed, but we do not perish. 10. And bear always the death of the LORD JEsu in our bodies, that the life also of the LORD JEsu may be manifested in our bodies]. 11. For we which are alive are given unto death for ever for JESUS' sake, that the life of JESUS also might be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12. Therefore death is mighty in us, but life in you. 13. But because we have the same spirit of faith, (as it is written, I believe, therefore I speak;) we also believe, therefore we also speak. 14. Knowing that he which raised up JESUS the LORD will raise us up also by JESUS, and will present us together with you. 15. For all things are done for your sakes, that the abundance of grace through many thanksgivings may abundantly glorify God. 16. Wherefore we are not weary: but though our outward man be decayed, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17. For our affliction, which is temporal and light, creates an everlasting and exceeding glory. 18. We who do not look at the visible, but at the invisible; for what is visible is temporal, but what is invisible is eternal. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 5 Comfort of the believers against all tribulations. Power of the gospel. 1. But we know, if our earthly house of this tabernacle be broken down, that we have an edifice built of God, a house not made with hands, which is for ever in heaven. 2. And above the same we also long for our habitation, which is from heaven, and desire that we may be clothed therewith, 3. So then, where we are clothed, and not found bare. 4. For while we are in the tabernacle, we long and are heavy laden, because we would rather not be unclothed, but clothed, that mortal things might be swallowed up of life. 5. And he that prepareth us for the same is God, who hath given us the pledge, the Spirit. 6. But we are always confident, knowing that, as we dwell in the body, so we are pleasing to the Lord. 7. For we walk by faith, and not by sight. 8. But we are confident, and rather delight to walk apart from the body, and to be at home with the LORD. 9. Wherefore we also labour, whether we be at home, or whether we walk, to please him. 10. For we must all be made manifest before the judgment seat of Christ, that every man may receive according to his deeds in the life of the body, whether it be good or bad. 11. Knowing therefore that the LORD is to be feared, we deal well with men: but we are manifest unto God. But I hope that we are also manifest in your consciences. 12. That we glory not again, but give you a cause to glory of us, that ye may have glory against them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. 13. For if we do too much, we do it unto God: if we are moderate, we are moderate unto you. 14. For the love of Christ presseth us therefore, because we hold that if one died for all, then died they all. 15. And therefore died for them all, that they which live should not live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. 16. Henceforth therefore we know no man after the flesh: and though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet know we him no more. 17. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18. But all this from God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given us the ministry of reconciliation. 19. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their sins unto them, and hath established among us the word of reconciliation. 20. We are therefore ambassadors in Christ's stead: for God doth exhort by us. So now we ask in the place of Christ: Be reconciled to GOD! 21. For he made him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might have in him the righteousness that is before God. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 6 Exhortation to worthy use of the grace of God. (Epistle on Sunday Invocavit.) 1. But we exhort you as fellow-workers, that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2. For he saith, I have heard thee in the acceptable time, and have helped thee in the day of salvation. Behold, now is the acceptable time; now is the day of salvation. 3. But let us give no man any offence, lest our ministry be blasphemed; 4. But in all things let us prove ourselves servants of God: in great patience, in tribulations, in distresses, in anxieties, 5. in beatings, in prisons, in riots, in labor, in watches, in fasting, 6. in chastity, in knowledge, in longsuffering, in kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in uncontaminated love, 7. in the word of truth, in the power of GOD, by weapons of righteousness on the right hand and on the left; 8. By honour and dishonour, by evil rumour and good rumour; as the deceivers, and yet true; 9. as the unknown, and yet known; as the dying, and behold we live; as the chastened, and yet not slain; 10. as the sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as the poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing in possession, yet having all things]. 11. O ye Corinthians, our mouth is opened unto you; our heart is confident. 12. For our sake ye shall not be afraid. But if ye be afraid, ye do it of a hearty mind. 13. I speak unto you as unto my children, that ye also bear with me, and be of good cheer. 14. Pull not the strange yoke with the unbelievers. For what enjoyment hath righteousness with unrighteousness? What fellowship hath light with darkness? 15. How does Christ agree with Belial? Or what part does the believer have with the unbeliever? 16. What likeness hath the temple of God unto idols? But ye are the temple of the living God, as God saith, I will dwell in them, and walk in them, and will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17. Come out therefore from among them, and be ye separate, saith the LORD, and touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. 18. and be your father, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 7 Exhortation to sanctification. 1. Having therefore this promise, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and let us continue in sanctification in the fear of God. 2. Take us! We have harmed no one; we have hurt no one; we have taken advantage of no one. 3. I say not these things to condemn you: for I said before that ye were in our hearts to die with us, and to live with us. 4. I speak unto you with great joy; I boast much of you; I am filled with consolation; I am exceeding glad in all our afflictions. 5. For when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled in every place: strife within, fear within. 6. But GOD, who comforts the lowly, comforted us by the coming of Titus. 7. And not only by his coming, but also by the consolation that he was comforted in you, and told us your desire, your weeping, your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced the more. 8. For that I have grieved you by this epistle, I am not sorry. And though it grieve me, yet if I see that the letter hath grieved you a while, I will not repent, 9. Now therefore I rejoice, not that ye were afflicted, but that ye were afflicted unto repentance. For ye have been divinely afflicted, that ye take no hurt from us in any thing. 10. For the sorrow of God worketh repentance unto salvation, which no man repenteth of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. 11. Behold, that ye have been divinely afflicted, what diligence hath it wrought in you, and responsibility, and wrath, and fear, and desire, and zeal, and vengeance! In all things ye have proved yourselves to be pure in deed. 12. Wherefore, though I have written unto you, yet it is not for him that hath offended, neither for him that is offended, but that your diligence toward us might be made manifest unto you before God. 13. For this cause We were comforted, that ye were comforted. But we rejoiced more abundantly over the joy of Titus; for his spirit is refreshed in you all. 14. For whatsoever I have testified of you before him, I am not confounded: but as all things that I have spoken unto you are true, even so our testifying before Titus is true. 15. And he is exceedingly well pleased with you, when he remembereth all your obedience, how ye received him with fear and trembling. 16th I am glad that I may provide myself to you all. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 8 Exhortation to lenient tax for the poor. 1. I make known to you, brethren, the grace of GOD which is given in the churches of Macedonia. 2. For their joy was exceeding great, being poor through much affliction, yet they gave abundantly in all simplicity. 3. For according to all their ability (I testify), and above ability, they themselves were willing. 4. And besought us with many exhortations to receive the benefits and fellowship of the ministration which is done unto the saints. 5. And not as we hoped, but yielded themselves first unto the LORD, and afterward unto us, by the will of GOD, 6. That we should exhort Titus, that, as he had begun before, so he might also work such a good work among you. 7. But as ye abound in all things, in faith, and in the word, and in knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love toward us, see that ye abound also in this benefit. 8. Not that I say I command, but because others are diligent, I also try your love, whether it be right. 9. For ye know the grace of our Lord JESUS Christ, that though he were rich, yet for your sakes he was poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. 10. And my good will in this I give. For these things are profitable unto you that began before the year, not only to do, but also to will. 11. But now perform also the doing, that, as there is a mind inclined to will, so there may be also a mind inclined to do of that which ye have. 12. For if a man be willing, he is acceptable after he hath, not after he hath not. 13. Not that they think that others have rest, and that they have affliction; but that it may be the same. 14. Let your abundance minister to their want for this time, that their abundance also may minister to your want hereafter; and let it be done that which is like unto it. 15. As it is written, He that gathered much had not abundance; and he that gathered little had not want. 16. But thanks be to God, which hath put such diligence into the heart of Titus for you. 17. For he received the exhortation, but because he was so diligent, he journeyed unto you of his own accord. 18. But we have sent a brother with him; who hath the praise of the gospel through all the churches; 19. And not only so, but he also is ordained of the churches to be the companion of our journey in this good work, which is done by us for the glory of the Lord, and for the praise of your good will. 20. And take heed lest any man speak evil of us, because of the rich tax which is paid by us. 21. Seeing that it be done uprightly, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 22. We have also sent with them our brother, whom we have often spued in many things, that he should be diligent, but now much more diligent. 23. And we are very confident of you, whether it be because of Titus, which is my companion and assistant among you, or because of our brethren, which are apostles of the churches, and the glory of Christ. 24. Show therefore the evidence of your love and of our glory from you unto them, even publicly before the churches. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 9 Causes to carry the tax soon and properly. 1. For of such a tax as befalleth the saints I have no need to write unto you. 2. For I know your good will, whereof I boast of them of Macedonia, saying, Achaia was ready before the year. And your example hath provoked many. 3. But I have sent these brethren for this cause, that our glory might not be destroyed from you in the piece, and that ye might be ready, even as I said of you, 4. Lest, when they that are of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (not ye) be put to shame with such a boast. 5. But I have judged it necessary to exhort the brethren to go forward unto you, to prepare this aforetime promised blessing, that it may be prepared, that it may be a blessing, and not a covetousness. (Epistle on St. Lawrence's Day.) 6. But this is what I mean: He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he that soweth in blessing shall reap also in blessing. 7. Every man according to his own will, not unwillingly, nor under compulsion: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8. But God is able to make all grace abound among you, that ye may have full sufficiency in all things, and be rich in all good works, 9. As it is written, He hath strewed out and given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever. 10. But he that giveth seed to the sower shall also give bread for meat, and shall multiply your seed, and increase the increase of your righteousness:] 11. That ye may abound in all things with all simplicity, which worketh thanksgiving unto God through us. 12. For the giving of this tax satisfieth not only the want of the saints, but is also exceeding abundant in that many give thanks unto God for this our faithful service. 13. and praise God over your humble confession of the gospel of Christ and over your simple taxation of them and of everyone 14. and over their prayer for you, which desireth you, because of the abundant grace of GOD in you. 15. But thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift! (2 Corinthians) Chapter 10 Warning against seduction by false apostles. 1. But I Paul exhort you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who am presently lowly among you, but in absentia am foolish toward you. 2. But I beseech you, let me not be foolish at this present time, neither let me be bold, which I am called to be, against some that esteem us to walk carnally. 3. For though we walk in the flesh, yet do we not contend carnally. 4. For the weapons of our knighthood are not carnal, but mighty in the sight of God, to destroy the fortifications, 5. That we may destroy the designs and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bring all understanding into captivity unto the obedience of Christ. 6. And are ready to avenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. 7. Do ye judge according to reputation? If any man think that he is Christ's, let him think that he is Christ's; and as he is Christ's, so are we also Christ's. 8. And if I boasted a little further of our power, which the LORD hath given us to amend you, and not to destroy you, I would not be put to shame. 9. But this I say, that ye think not that I will affright you with letters. 10. For the letters (speaking, they) are heavy and strong: but the presence of the body is weak, and the speech contemptible. 11. Let him that is such think that, as we are absent by word in the epistles, so we may well be present by deed. 12. For we ought not to number or count ourselves among them that commend themselves: but because they measure themselves by themselves, and think of themselves only, they understand nothing. 13. But we glory not in the goal, but only in the goal of the rule, that God hath measured out for us the goal, to reach even unto you. 14. For we go not too far, lest we should not have come unto you: for we came unto you with the gospel of Christ. 15. And we glory not in the work of others, and have hope, when your faith is increased in you, that we may advance according to our rule. 16. And preach the gospel also unto them that dwell beyond you, not boasting in those things which are prepared with strange rule. 17. But let him that boasteth boast of the LORD. 18. For therefore is no man proficient, that he should praise himself, but that the LORD should praise him. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 11 Paul's endured work and danger in planting the church. 1. Would to God ye had given me a little folly! But ye will keep it for me. 2. For I am jealous for you with godly zeal. For I have trusted you to a man, that I might bring a pure virgin unto Christ. 3. But I fear lest, as the serpent beguiled Eve with his craftiness, so your minds also be beguiled of the simplicity that is in Christ. 4. For if he that cometh unto you preacheth another Jesus, which we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not received, ye are forgiven. 5. For I respect that I am no less than the high apostles are. 6. Though I be foolish in speech, yet am I not foolish in knowledge. Yea, I am well known among you all. 7. Or have I sinned in humbling myself, that ye might be exalted? For I have preached the gospel unto you in vain. 8. And have robbed other churches, and taken pay of them, that I might preach unto you. 9. And when I was present with you, and was in want, I was not burdensome to any man: for my want was supplied by the brethren that came out of Macedonia: and in all things I have kept myself light unto you, and will keep myself so. 10. If the truth of Christ be in me, let not this glory be stopped from me in the countries of Achaia. 11. Why is that? That I should not love you? God knows. 12. But what I do, and what I will do, I do for this cause, to cut off the cause of them that seek causes, that they may boast that they are like us. 13. For such false apostles and deceitful workers pretend to be Christ's apostles. 14. And this is no marvel: for he himself, Satan, maketh himself an angel of light. 15. Therefore it is no great thing, if his ministers also disguise themselves as preachers of righteousness: which end shall be according to their works. 16. But I say again, lest any man think me foolish: but if not, receive me for a fool, that I may boast a little. 17. What I speak now, I speak not as in the Lord, but as in folly, because we are come to glory. 18. Forasmuch as many boast according to the flesh, I also will boast. (Epistle on Sunday Sexagesimä.) 19. For ye gladly bear with fools, because ye are wise. 20. Ye shall bear with one that maketh you servants, and with one that oppresseth you, and with one that taketh you, and with one that defieth you, and with one that smote you in the face. 21. I say this after dishonour, as though we had become weak. Wherefore if any man be bold (I speak in folly), I am bold also. 22. They are Ebrews, and so am I. They are Israelites, so am I. They are Abraham's seed, so am I. 23. they are servants of Christ;. (I speak foolishly) I am more, I suppose. I have worked more, I have suffered more blows, I have been imprisoned more often, often in mortal peril. 24. Of the Jews I have received five times forty strokes less one. 25. I have been beaten thrice, I have been stoned once, I have been shipwrecked thrice, I have spent day and night in the deep. 26. I have travelled often; I have been in danger by sea, in danger among murderers, in danger among the Jews, in danger among the Gentiles, in danger in the cities, in danger in the wilderness, in danger on the sea, in danger among false brethren, 27. In toil and labor, in much watching, in hunger and thirst, in much fasting, in frost and nakedness, 28. Without any other thing, that I am daily approached, and have the care of all the churches. 29. Who is weak, and I become not weak? Who is vexed, and I burn not? 30. If ever I should glory, I will glory in my infirmities. 31. God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for ever and ever, knoweth that I lie not. 32. In Damascus, the governor of king Aretas kept the city of the Damascenes, and sought to take me; 33. And I was let down by the wall out of a basket at the window, and escaped out of his hands. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 12 Paul's glory and revelation, opposed to his repugnant ambition. 1. For boasting is of no profit unto me: but I will come unto the visions and revelations of the LORD. 2. I know a man in Christ fourteen years ago (if he was in the body, I know it not; or if he was out of the body, I know it not: God knoweth it), who was raptured unto the third heaven. 3. And I know the same man (whether he hath been in the body, or out of the body, I know not; God knoweth). 4. He was raptured into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which no man can utter. 5. Of this will I glory: but of myself will I not glory, except in my infirmities. 6. And if I would boast, I would not therefore do foolishly; for I would speak the truth. But I abstain from this, lest any man esteem me above that which he seeth in me, or heareth of me, 7. And lest I should overtake the high revelation, there is given me a stake in the flesh, even the angel of Satan to smite me with fists, lest I should overtake. 8. For which I cried thrice unto the LORD, that he would depart from me; 9. And he said unto me, Be thou content with my grace: for my power is mighty in the weak. Therefore I will boast most gladly of my weakness, that the power of Christ may dwell with me]. 10. Therefore I am of good courage in infirmities, in difficulties, in distresses, in persecutions, in anxieties for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then am I strong. 11. I became a fool for boasting; ye made me so. For I ought to be praised of you, seeing I am nothing less than the high apostles; though I am nothing. 12. For the signs of an apostle were done among you with all patience; with signs, and with wonders, and with deeds. 13. What is this wherein ye are inferior to the rest of the churches, that I myself have not afflicted you? Forgive me this sin. 14. Behold, I am ready to come unto you the third time, and will not afflict you: for I seek not yours, but you. For children shall not lay up treasures for their parents, but parents for their children. 15. But I will almost gladly expound and be set forth for your souls; though I love you almost very much, yet am loved little. 16. But let it be, that I have not afflicted you; but because I have been deceitful, I have taken you by guile. 17. And have I taken advantage of any of them whom I have sent unto you? 18. I exhorted Titus, and sent a brother with him. Did Titus also take advantage of you? Have we not walked in one spirit? Have we not walked in the same footsteps? 19. But think ye that we answer for ourselves? We speak in Christ before God: but all this, my beloved, is for your correction. 20. For I fear, when I come, that I shall not find you as I will, neither shall ye find me as ye will: lest there be strife, and envying, and wrath, and strife, and talking after one another, and blowing out of your ears, and uproar; 21. Lest I come again, and humble myself before you, my God, and be grieved for many that sinned before, and repented not of the uncleanness, and fornication, and whoredoms, which they committed. (2 Corinthians) Chapter 13 Exhortation to repentance. 1. When I come unto you the third time, then in the mouth of two or three witnesses shall all these things stand. 2. I told you before, and I tell you now for the present, and I write it now in absentia unto them that sinned before, and to all the rest: But when I come again, I will not spare. 3. For ye seek to know him that speaketh in me, even Christ, who is not weak among you, but is mighty among you. 4. And though he be crucified in weakness, yet he liveth in the power of God. And though we be weak in him, yet live we with him in the power of God among you. 5. Try yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; try yourselves. Or know ye not yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you? Unless ye be unfit. 6. But I hope ye will see that we are not unfit. 7. But I beseech God that ye do no evil, not that we may be seen to do well, but that ye may do good, and that we may be as the unprofitable. 8. For we cannot do anything against the truth, but for the truth. 9. But we rejoice when we are weak, and ye are mighty. And we also desire the same, that is, your perfection. 10. Wherefore I also write these things absent, lest, when I am present, I should need sharpness according to the power which the LORD hath given me to amend, and not to destroy. 11. Finally, brethren, rejoice, be perfect, be comforted, be of one mind, be at peace, and God will be with you of love and peace. 12. Greet one another with the holy kiss. All the saints greet you. 13. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. The other epistle to the Corinthians, sent from Philippi in Macedonia by Titus and Luke. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Letter of Paul to the Galatians ^ Chapter 1 Of Galatians' inconstancy and Paul's apostleship. 1. Paul, an apostle (not of men, nor by men, but by JESUS Christ and GOD the Father, who raised him from the dead), 2. And all the brethren that are with me: To the churches of Galatia. 3. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, 4. Who gave himself for our sins, that he might save us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father, 5. to whom be glory forever and ever! Amen. 6. I marvel that ye are so soon turned away from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel, 7. If there be none other, without that there be some that confound you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8. But if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9. As we have said before, so say we again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 10. Do I preach to men, or do I preach to God? Or do I intend to be pleasing to men? If I were still pleasing men, I would not be Christ's servant. 11. But I make known unto you, brethren, that the gospel which is preached of me is not human. 12. For I have neither received nor learned it of any man, but by the revelation of JESUS CHRIST. 13. For ye have heard my doings in the days of Judaism, how that I persecuted the congregation of God exceedingly, and cast them out. 14. And increased in Judaism above many of my kindred, and zealous exceedingly for the law of my father. 15. And it pleased God, who hath separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16. That he had manifested his Son in me, to preach him by the gospel among the Gentiles: immediately I departed, and talked not of it with flesh and blood, 17. Neither came he to Jerusalem unto them that were apostles before me, but went into Arabia, and returned to Damascus. 18. After these three years I came to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. 19. But I saw none of the other apostles, save James the brother of the Lord. 20. But what I write unto you, behold, God knoweth I lie not. 21. After that I came to the countries of Syria and Cilicia. 22. But I was unknown face to face unto the Christian churches which were in Judea. 23. But they only had heard that he which before persecuted us now preacheth the faith which he once rejected; 24. and praised God above me. (Galatians) Chapter 2 Paul's comparison with the apostles. Controversy with Peter. Preaching about the righteousness of faith. 1. After these fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus also with me. 2. And I went up of a revelation, and communed with them concerning the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, and especially with them that had the reputation, lest I should run or walk in vain. 3. Neither was Titus compelled to be circumcised, which was with me, though he were a Greek. 4. Forasmuch as some false brethren had entered in, and crept in beside, to make known our liberty which we have in Christ JESUS, that they might take us captive, 5. We have not shunned them one hour, that we might be subject unto them, that the truth of the gospel might stand with you. 6. But of them that had the honour of whatsoever they were, I care nothing: for God regardeth not the honour of men. But they that had reputation have taught me nothing else, 7. But again, when they saw that the gospel was committed unto me concerning the foreskin, as Peter had committed the gospel concerning the circumcision 8. For he that was strong with Peter in apostleship among the circumcision, the same is strong with me among the Gentiles, 9. And knowing the grace that was given unto me, James, and Cephas, and John, which were counted for pillars, they gave me and Barnabas their right hand, and became one with us, that we should preach among the Gentiles, and they among the circumcision; 10. Only that we may remember the poor, which also I have been diligent to do. 11. And when Peter was come to Antioch, I rebuked him in mine eyes: for there was a lamentation come upon him. 12. For before that some of James came, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they came, he withdrew himself, and separated himself, because he feared them that were of the circumcision. 13. And the rest of the Jews hypocritized with him: so that Barnabas also was deceived to hypocrisy with them. 14. But when I saw that they walked not aright after the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter in the presence of all openly, If thou, being a Jew, livest heathenish, and not Jewish, why then dost thou compel the Gentiles to live Jewish? 15. Though we be Jews by nature, and not sinners among the Gentiles, 16. Nevertheless, knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in JESUS Christ, we also believe in JESUS Christ, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. 17. But if we ourselves, who seek to be justified by Christ, should also be found sinners, Christ would be a minister of sin. Let this be far off! 18. But if I build again that which I have broken, I make myself a transgressor. 19. But I died to the law by the law, that I might live unto God: I am crucified with Christ. 20. But I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me. For what I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me. 21. I do not cast away the grace of GOD: for by the law righteousness cometh, so Christ died in vain. (Galatians) Chapter 3 Righteousness of faith confirmed. The right use of the law shown. 1. O ye foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth? to whom Christ JESUS was painted before your eyes, and is now crucified among you! 2. This only will I learn of you, Whether ye have received the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the preaching of faith? 3. Are ye so foolish? Ye began in the spirit, but will ye finish in the flesh? 4. have ye suffered so much in vain? Is it otherwise in vain. 5. He therefore that giveth you the Spirit, and doeth these things among you, doth he it by the works of the law, or by the preaching of the faith? 6. As Abraham believed God, and was counted unto him for righteousness. 7. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith are the children of Abraham. 8. But the scripture hath before seen, that God justifieth the Gentiles by faith. Therefore it declared unto Abraham, In thee shall all the Gentiles be blessed. 9. So then they that are of faith are blessed with Abraham the believer. 10. For they that do the works of the law are under a curse: for it is written: Cursed be every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. 11. But that by the law no man is justified in the sight of God is evident; for the just shall live by faith. 12. Now the law is not of faith: but the man that doeth it shall live by it. 13. But Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, when he became a curse for us (for it is written, Cursed be every man that hangeth on the wood), 14. That the blessing of Abraham might come among the Gentiles in Christ JESUS, and that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith. (Epistle on the thirteenth Sunday after Trinity.) 15. Brethren, I will speak after the manner of men, saying, If a man's testament be confirmed, let it not be despised, neither let it be added unto. 16. Now the promise was ever made to Abraham and his seed. He saith not, Through the seed, as through many; but as through one, through thy seed, which is Christ. 17. But I say of this, That the testament which was confirmed of God before unto Christ shall not be revoked, that the promise of the law should cease, which was given four hundred and thirty years after. 18. For if the inheritance were acquired by law, it would not be given by promise. But God gave it freely to Abraham by promise. 19. What then is the law? It was added for sin, until the seed should come to whom the promise was made, and was given by angels through the hand of the mediator. 20. But one mediator is not of one mediator; but God is one. 21. How? Is the law contrary to God's promises? Be it far from that! But if there were a law that could give life, then righteousness would truly come from the law. 22. But the scripture hath decreed it all under sin, that the promise might come through faith in JESUS Christ, given to them that believe]. (Epistle on New Year's Day.) 23. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, and shut up unto the faith that should be revealed. 24. Therefore the law was our taskmaster unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 25. But now that faith is come, we are no more under the taskmaster. 26. For ye are all the children of God through faith in Christ. 27. For as many as are baptized of you have put on Christ. 28. Here is neither Jew nor Greek, here is neither bond nor free, here is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ JEsu. 29. But if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise]. (Galatians) Chapter 4 More distant explanation of the justice of the law. (Epistle on the Sunday after Christmas Day.) 1. But I say, As long as the heir is a child, there is no difference between him and a servant, though he be lord of all goods, 2. but he is under the guardians and custodians until the appointed time of the father. 3. So also we, being children, were captives under the outward statutes. 4. And when the time was fulfilled, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, and put under the law, 5. That he might redeem them which were under the law, that we might receive the adoption. 6. because ye are children, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, dear Father! 7. So then here is no more a servant, but only children. But if they be children, they are also heirs of God through Christ]. 8. But in the days when ye knew not God, ye served those who by nature are not gods. 9. But now that ye have known God, ye are rather known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and meager statutes, which ye serve anew? 10. Ye keep days, and moons, and feasts, and seasons. 11. I fear for you, lest perhaps I have wrought in you in vain. 12.Be ye like me, for I am like you. Dear brothers, I beg you, you have done me no harm. 13. For ye know that in weakness according to the flesh I preached the gospel unto you the first time. 14. And my temptations which I suffer according to the flesh ye have not despised, neither spurned: but as an angel of God ye receive me, even as Christ JESUS. 15. How blessed ye were in those days! I am your witness, that if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your eyes, and have given them unto me. 16. Am I then become your enemy, that I'm holding the truth up to you? 17. They are not jealous for you: but they would have you to be jealous for them. 18. Zeal is good, if it be always for good, and not only when I am present with you. 19. Little children, whom again I bring forth with fears, until Christ be formed in you. 20. But I would that I were now with you, and that my voice might walk with you: for I am astray against you. (Epistle on Sunday Lätare.) 21. Tell me, ye that would be under the law: Have ye not heard the law? 22. For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by the maid, and the other by the free woman. 23. But he that was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh: but he that was of the free woman was born through the promise. 24. The words signify something. For these are the two testaments, one from mount Sinai, which is born to bondage, which is Hagar. 25. For Hagar's name is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and it reacheth unto Jerusalem, which is at this time, and is servant with her children. 26. But the Jerusalem which is above is the free, the mother of us all. 27. For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not, and break forth and call, thou that conceivest not. For the lonely woman hath many more children than she that hath a husband. 28. But we, brethren, are Isaac's children according to the promise. 29. But as in those days he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, so it is now also. 30. But what saith the scripture? Cast out the maid with her son. For the son of the maid shall not inherit with the son of the free woman. 31. So then, brethren, we are not the children of the handmaid, but of the free]. (Galatians) Chapter 5 Exhortation to the right use of Christian liberty and to good works. 1. Stand ye therefore in liberty, that Christ may set us free; and be not entangled again in the bondage of the yoke. 2. Behold, I Paul say unto you: If ye be circumcised, Christ is no profit to you. 3. But again I testify unto every one that is circumcised, that he is yet under obligation to do the whole law. 4. Ye have lost Christ, who would be justified by the law, and have fallen from grace. 5. But we wait in the Spirit by the faith of righteousness, which must be hoped for. 6. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor foreskin is of any value, but faith working through love. 7. Ye ran fine Who hath kept you from obeying the truth? 8. Such persuasion is not of him that called you. 9. a little sourdough acidifies the whole dough. 10. I promise you in the LORD, ye shall not be otherwise minded. But he that deceiveth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be. 11. But I, brethren, if I preach circumcision, why suffer I persecution? Then the persecution of the cross would have ceased. 12. Would to God that they also were cut off who disturb you! 13. But ye, brethren, are called to liberty; but see that ye by liberty give no place to the flesh, but by charity serve one another. 14. For all the laws are fulfilled in one word, saying: Love thy neighbor as thyself. 15. But if ye bite and devour one another, see that ye be not consumed one of another. (Epistle on the fourteenth Sunday after Trinity.) 16. But I say, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not carry out the lusts of the flesh. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. These are contrary to one another, because ye do not do the things that ye would. 18. But if the Spirit rule you, ye are not under the law. 19. But the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these: Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, fornication, 20. idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, envy, wrath, strife, discord, factions, hatred, murder, 21. Drinking, devouring, and such like: of which I told you before, and say before, that they which do these things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22. And the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, chastity. 23. Against such the law is not. 24. But they that are Christ's crucify their flesh with their lusts and desires]. (Galatians) Chapter 6 To practice gentleness and goodness. (Epistle on the fifteenth Sunday after Trinity.) 25. If we walk in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit, provoking one another to indignation and hatred. Chapt. 6, v. 1. Brethren, if a man be overtaken in any fault, restore him with a gentle spirit, ye that are spiritual. And look to thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2. Bear ye one another's burdens, and ye shall fulfil the law of Christ. 3. But if any man think himself to be anything, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. 4. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he glory in himself, and not in another. 5. For every man shall bear his own burden. 6. But he that is instructed in the word, let him impart all good things unto him that instructeth him. 7. Be not deceived: God is not mocked. For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8. He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption: but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life eternal. 9. But let us do good, and not be weary: for in his time we shall also reap without ceasing. 10. Now therefore, as we have time, let us do good to every man, but most of all to the companions of faith]. 11. Behold, with how many words have I written unto you with mine own hand! 12. They that would make themselves acceptable after the flesh compel you to be circumcised, only that they be not persecuted with the cross of Christ. 13. For even they themselves which are circumcised keep not the law, but desire that ye should be circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. 14. But let it be far from me to boast only of the cross of our Lord JESUS Christ, by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world. 15. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor foreskin signifies anything, but a new creature. 16. And how many shall walk according to this rule, upon them be peace and mercy, and upon the Israel of God! 17. Henceforth trouble me no more: for I bear in my body the marks of the LORD JEsu. 18. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen. Sent to the Galatians from Rome. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The letter of Paul to the Ephesians ^ Chapter 1 Thanksgiving for the spiritual benefits of God. Prayer for the increase of faith. 1. Paul, an apostle of JEsu Christ by the will of GOD: To the saints at Ephesus and believers in Christ JEsu. 2. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Epistle on St. Thomas' Day.) 3. Blessed be God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things through Christ; 4. Forasmuch then as he hath chosen us through him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love; 5. And hath ordained us to filial adoption unto himself by JESUS Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6. To the praise of his glorious grace, by which he hath made us acceptable in the Beloved, 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace, 8. Which is abundantly given unto us in all wisdom and prudence. 9. And hath made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure, and hath brought it forth by him, 10. That it might be preached, when the time was fulfilled, that all things might be gathered together in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are also on earth, through him, 11. By whom also we are come to the inheritance, which were ordained beforehand according to the purpose of him that worketh all things after the counsel of his will, 12. That we may be something to the praise of his glory, who first hope in Christ; 13. By whom also ye have heard the word of truth, which is the gospel of your salvation: by whom also, when ye believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Ghost of promise, 14. Which is the pledge of our inheritance unto our redemption, that we should be his own unto the praise of his glory. 15. Wherefore I also, after I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and of your love to all the saints, 16. I will not cease to give thanks for you, and will remember you in my prayer, 17. That the God of our Lord JESUS Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation for the knowledge of him 18. And enlightened eyes: of your understanding, that ye may know which is the hope of your calling, and which is the riches of his glorious inheritance in his saints, 19. And which is the exceeding greatness of his power toward us, which we believe according to the working of his mighty strength, 20. Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his right hand in heaven. 21. over all principality, power, authority, dominion, and all that may be called, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. 22. And hath put all things under his feet, and hath made him head of the church over all, 23. Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. (Ephesians) Chapter 2 The misery of man apart from Christ and the blessed state in Christ. 1. And also unto you, being dead in trespasses and sins, 2. In whom ye have walked according to the course of this world, and according to the prince that ruleth in the air, even according to the spirit that worketh at this time in the children of unbelief, 3. Among whom also we all formerly walked in the lusts of our flesh, doing the will of the flesh and of the mind, and were also the children of wrath by nature, as were also the rest; 4. But God, who is rich in mercy, by his great love hath loved us: 5. Being dead in sins, he hath quickened us together with Christ: for by grace are ye saved. 6. And hath raised us up together with him, and hath seated us together with him in the heavenly estate in Christ JESUS, 7. That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace by his kindness toward us in Christ JESUS. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God; 9. Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, for which God hath prepared us beforehand, that we should walk therein. 11. Remember therefore, that ye which were once Gentiles after the flesh, and were called the foreskin of them which are called circumcision after the flesh, which is with the hand, 12. That ye were then without Christ, strangers, and aliens from the citizenship of Israel, and strangers from the testaments of promise: therefore ye had no hope, and were without God in the world. 13. But now ye which are in Christ JEsu, and were once far off, are now made nigh by the blood of Christ. 14. For he is our peace, which hath made the two one, and hath broken down the fence that was between them, in that by his flesh he hath taken away the enmity, 15. To wit, the law which was given in commandments, that he might make of two a new man in himself, and make peace, 16. And that he might reconcile them both to God in one body by the cross, and put to death the enmity by himself. 17. And came preaching peace in the gospel unto you that were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18. For by him we have access both in one Spirit unto the Father. (Epistle on the day of Philip and James.) 19. So then you are no longer sojourners and strangers, but citizens with the saints and members of God's household, 20. Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ being the cornerstone. 21. Upon which the whole building, being joined together, groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord, 22. Upon whom also ye are built for a dwelling place of God. in the Spirit]. (Ephesians) Chapter 3 Price of preaching as a means of conversion. 1. Therefore I Paul, the prisoner of Christ JEsu for you Gentiles, 2. after ye have heard of the ministration of the grace of God which is given unto me toward you, 3. That this mystery was made known unto me by revelation, as I have written in brief above, 4. That, when ye have read it, ye may know my mind by the mystery of Christ, 5. Which was not made known in times past unto the children of men, but is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit, 6. That the Gentiles should be heirs, and should be incorporated, and should be fellow partakers of his promise in Christ through the gospel, 7. that I have become a servant according to the gift of the grace of God, which is given me according to his mighty power: 8. To me, the least of all the saints, is given this grace, to proclaim among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. 9. And to make every man know the fellowship of the mystery which was hid from the world in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ, 10. That now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known to the principalities and dominions of heaven in the church. 11. According to the purpose of the world, which he hath shewed in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12. By whom we have joy and access in all confidence through faith in him. (Epistle on the sixteenth Sunday after Trinity,) 13. Wherefore I pray you, that ye be not weary because of my afflictions which I suffer for you, which are an honour unto you. 14. Therefore I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15. Who is the true father of all that are called children in heaven and in earth, 16. That he would give you power according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened by his Spirit in the inner man, 17. and Christ to dwell in your hearts by faith, and to be rooted and established by love, 18. That ye may understand with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height, 19. Knowing also that to love Christ is far better than all knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fulness of God. or: the love of Christ, which surpasses all knowledge. 20. But to him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or understand, according to the power that is in us, 21. To whom be glory in the church which is in Christ JEsu for ever and ever! Amen] (Ephesians) Chapter 4 Exhortation to godliness and unity. Warning against sins and burdens. (Epistle to the seventeenth Sunday after Trinity.) 1. Now therefore I, a prisoner in the Lord, exhort you to walk according to your calling, wherein ye are called, 2. with all humility and meekness, with patience, bearing with one another in love 3. And be diligent to keep unity in the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4. One body and one Spirit, even as ye are called unto one hope of your calling. 5. one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6. one God and Father (our) of all, who is over you all, and through you all, and in you all]. 7. But to every one of us grace is given according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8. Therefore saith he, He ascended up on high, and led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 9. But that he hath ascended, what is it but that he went down first into the lowest parts of the earth? 10. He that descended is he that ascended above all heavens, that he might fill all things. 11. And he made some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12. That the saints may be prepared for the work of the ministry, edifying the body of Christ, 13. Until we all come to the same faith, and to the same knowledge of the Son of God, and become a perfect man, according to the measure of the perfect age of Christ, 14. That we should be no more children, to be weighed, and to be lulled with every wind of doctrine, through the craftiness of men, and deceit, that they might deceive us. 15. But let us be righteous in love, and let us increase in all things in him who is the head, even Christ, 16. Of whom the whole body is joined together, and one member is joined to another through all the joints, giving one hand to another according to the work of each member in his measure, and causing the body to grow for its own good; and all this in love: 17. I say therefore, and bear witness in the Lord, that ye walk no more as the rest of the Gentiles walk, according to the vanity of their mind, 18. Whose minds are darkened, and are alienated from the life that is of God, through the ignorance that is in them, through the blindness of their hearts. 19. Which are profane, and give themselves up to fornication, and do all manner of uncleanness, and covetousness. 20. But ye have not so learned Christ, 21. If ye have heard otherwise of him, and have been taught in him, how that in JESUS there is a righteousness. (Epistle on the nineteenth Sunday after 22. Put away from you therefore, according to the former manner of life, the old man, which through lusts is corrupted into error. 23. But renew yourselves in the spirit of your mind. 24. And put on the new man, created after God in righteousness and holiness. 25. Wherefore put away falsehood, and speak the truth, every man to his neighbour; for we are members one of another. 26. Be angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath. Neither pray ye room to the blasphemer. 28. Let him that hath stolen steal no more, but work, and with his hands create some good thing, that he may have to give to the needy]. 29. Let no idle talk proceed out of your mouths, but that which is profitable for correction, when it is needful, that it may be pleasant to hear. 30. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, that ye may be sealed unto the day of redemption. 31. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and blasphemy, and all malice, be put away from you. 32. But be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God forgave you in Christ. (Ephesians) Chapter 5 Distant exhortation to a holy walk. Lesson for the wives and husbands. (Epistle on Sunday Oculi.) 1. Therefore, be followers of God as the dear children! 2. And walk in love, even as Christ loved us, and offered himself for us a gift and a sacrifice, unto God for a sweet savour. 3. But fornication, and all uncleanness, and covetousness, let it not be said of you, as it is lawful for the saints, 4. Even shameful words, and foolish defenses, or jestings, which befit you not, but rather thanksgivings. 5. For this ye shall know, that no fornicator, or unclean person, or covetous person (which is an idolater), hath inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6. Let no one deceive you with vain words! For because of these, the wrath of God comes upon the children of unbelief. 7. Therefore be not their fellows! 8. For ye were once darkness: but now are ye a light in the Lord. 9. Walk as the children of light! The fruit of the Spirit is all kindness and righteousness and truth]. 10. And try that which is acceptable in the sight of the LORD. 11. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness; but rather punish them. 12. For that which is done secretly of them is also shameful to say. 13. But all this is revealed when it is punished by the light. For everything that is revealed is light. 14. Therefore saith he, Awake thou that slept, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall enlighten thee. (Epistle on the twentieth Sunday after Trinity.) 15. Take heed therefore how ye walk carefully, not as the unwise, but as the wise. 16. And send ye into the time: for it is an evil time. 17. Wherefore be not ignorant, but understanding of the will of the LORD. 18. And be not drunken with wine, whereof a disorderly manner ensues; but be full of the spirit. 19. And speak among yourselves of psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs; singing and playing unto the LORD in your hearts. 20. And give thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21. And be subject to one another in the fear of GOD]. 22. Let the wives be subject unto their husbands, as unto the LORD. 23. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church, and he is the saviour of his body. 24. But as the church is subject unto Christ, so also the wives are subject unto their husbands in all things. 25. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for her, 26. That he might sanctify them, and cleanse them with the bath of water in the word, 27. That he might present them to himself as a church glorious, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and blameless. 28. So also let men love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29. For no man hateth his own flesh at any time: but he feedeth it, and cherisheth it, as the LORD hath also the church. 30. For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and two shall be one flesh. 32. The mystery is great; but I say of Christ and the church; 33. But ye also, let every man love his wife rather than himself: but let the wife fear the husband. (Ephesians) Chapter 6 Christian house tablet, spiritual weapons. 1. Ye children, be obedient to your parents in the LORD: for this is right. 2. Honour thy father and mother: this is the first commandment which hath promise: 3. That it may go well with thee, and that thou mayest live long upon the earth. 4. And ye fathers, provoke not your children to anger, but bring them up in discipline and admonition unto the LORD. 5. Ye servants, be obedient unto your masters in the flesh with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as unto Christ; 6. not with service only in view, as pleasing men, but as the servants of Christ, that ye do such will of God from the heart, with a good will. 7. Let it seem unto you, that ye serve the LORD, and not men; 8. And know that whatsoever good thing any man shall do, that shall he receive of the LORD, whether he be bondman or bondwoman. 9. And, ye lords, do the same against them, and forbear: and know that your Lord also is in heaven, and that with him there is no respect of persons. (Epistle on the twenty-first Sunday after Trinity.) 10. Last of all, my brethren, be strong in the LORD, and in the power of his might. 11. Put on the armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12. For we have not to do battle with flesh and blood, but with princes and mighty men, even with the rulers of the world, which reign in the darkness of this world, with the evil spirits which are under heaven. 13. For this cause therefore take hold of the armour of God, that ye may resist in the evil day, and that ye may do well in all things, and keep the field. 14. Stand therefore girded about your loins with truth, and clothed with the cancer of righteousness. 15. and booted up by the legs, as ready to drive out the gospel of peace, that ye might be prepared. 16. But above all, take hold of the shield of faith, with which ye may quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God]. 18. And pray always in all intentions with supplications and supplications in the spirit, and watch for it with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. 19. And for me, that the word might be given me with the gladness of my mouth, that I might make known the mystery of the gospel, 20. Which messenger am I in the chain, that I may do therein joyfully, and speak as I ought. 21. But that ye also may know how I am, and what I do, all things shall be made known unto you by Tychicus, my dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord. 22. Whom I have sent unto you for this cause, that ye might know how I am, and that he might comfort your hearts. 23. peace to the brethren, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24. Grace be unto all them that love our Lord JESUS CHRIST unfeignedly. Amen. Written from Rome to the Ephesians by Tychicus. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Letter of Paul to the Philippians ^ Chapter 1 The bound Paul's thanksgiving, prayer, and exhortation to the constant struggle of faith. 1. Paul and Timothy, servants of JEsu Christ: To all the saints in Christ JEsu at Philippi, with the bishops and ministers. 2. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (Epistle on the twenty-second Sunday after Trinity). 3. I give thanks unto my God, as often as I remember you: 4. (which I do always in all my prayer for you all, and do the prayer with gladness), 5. About your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now. 6. And I am of this in good confidence, that he which began the good work in you will perform it until the day of JESUS CHRIST. 7. Forasmuch then as it is expedient for me to think so highly of you all, because I have you in my heart in this my prison, wherein I answer for and confirm the gospel, as ye all are partakers with me of grace. 8. For God is my witness, how that I long for you all from the bottom of my heart in Jesus Christ. 9. And therefore I pray that your love may abound more and more in all knowledge and experience, 10. That ye may prove what is best, that ye may be pure and without offence unto the day of Christ, 11. filled with fruits of righteousness, which are done (in you) through JESUS CHRIST, to the glory and praise of GOD]. 12. But I let you know, brethren, that, as it is with me, this is but more advised for the furtherance of the gospel, 13. So that my bonds were made manifest in Christ throughout the whole judgment hall, and among all the rest, 14. And many brethren, being confident in the Lord out of my bonds, have been the more bold to speak the word without timidity. 15. Though some preach Christ for the sake of hatred and strife, yet some for the sake of good opinion. 16. They proclaim Christ out of contention, and not purely: for they think to turn away a tribulation unto my bands. 17. But these for love: for they know that I lie here for the account of the gospel. 18. But what is the matter with him? That Christ only may be preached in all manner of things, whether by chance or by right; yet I rejoice therein, and will rejoice also. 19. For I know that through your prayer, and the ministration of the Spirit of JESUS CHRIST, I have obtained the same things unto salvation. 20. How that at last I wait and hope that I shall not be destroyed in any part, but that with all joy, as at all other times, so now also, Christ may be highly praised in my body, whether by life or by death. 21. For Christ is my life, and to die is my gain. 22. But as the life of the flesh worketh to bring forth more fruit, I know not which to choose. 23. For both are hard for me: I desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which also would be much better: 24. But it is more necessary to abide in the flesh for your sakes. 25. And in good confidence I know that I will abide and be with you all for the encouragement and joy of the faith, 26. That ye may greatly glory in Christ JEsu in me by my coming again unto you. 27. Only walk worthily of the gospel of Christ, that, whether I come and see you, or be absent from you, I may hear you, that ye stand in one spirit and one soul, and fight together with us for the faith of the gospel. 28. And in no wise be ye dismayed of the adversaries, which is a sign unto them of damnation, but unto you of salvation, and the same of God. 29. For unto you it is given to do for Christ's sake, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake, 30. And have the same fight which ye have seen in me, and now hear of me. (Philippians) Chapter 2 The humiliation and exaltation of Christ is to move to unity, humility, and so on. 1. If therefore there be with you exhortation in Christ, comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, tender love and mercy, 2. Be filled with my joy, that ye be of one mind, having the same love, being of one accord and of one mind, 3. Do nothing by quarreling or vain glory, but by humility esteem one another better than yourselves. 4. And every man look not to his own, but to the things of others. (Epistle on Palm Sunday.) 5. Let every man be of the same mind as Jesus Christ was, 6. Which, though he were in the form of God, yet did he not think it robbery to be equal with God, 7. But emptied himself, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made like unto another man, and was found in the likeness of men; 8. And humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9. Therefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name, 10. That at the name of JEsu all the knees of them which are in heaven, and in earth, and under the earth, should bow, 11. and let every tongue confess that JEsus Christ is the LORD, to the glory of GOD the Father]. 12. So then, my beloved, as ye have always been obedient, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence: work out that ye may be saved with fear and trembling. 13. For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do, according to his good pleasure. 14. do everything without murmuring and without doubt, 15. That ye may be blameless, pure, and children of God, blameless in the midst of the unrighteous and perverse generation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. 16. That ye may keep the word of life, for a glory unto me in the day of Christ, as I have not walked in vain, nor labored in vain. 17. And if I be offered above the sacrifice and worship of your faith, I will rejoice and be glad with you all. 18. In the same ye shall rejoice, and be glad with me. 19. But I hope in JESUS the Lord, that I shall send Timothy unto you shortly, that I also may be refreshed, when I shall know how ye are. 20. For I have no man that is so much of my mind, that careth so earnestly for you. 21. For they all seek their own, not Christ's JEsu. 22. But ye know that he is righteous: for as a child unto his father he hath served the gospel with me. 23. The same, I hope, will I send from this hour, when I have found out how I am. 24. But I trust in the LORD, that I myself also shall come shortly. 25. But I have thought it necessary to send unto you the brother Epaphroditus, who is my helpmate and companion, and your apostle, and the minister of my need, 26. Because he longed after you all, and was greatly grieved that ye had heard that he was sick. 27. And though he was sick unto death, yet God had mercy upon him, and not upon him only, but upon me also, that I might not have one sorrow upon another. 28. But I have sent him the more quickly, that ye may see him, and be glad again, and that I also may have less sorrow. 29. Receive ye him therefore in the LORD with all joy, and cherish it. 30. For because of the work of Christ he came so near to death, having little thought of his life, that he might serve me in your stead. (Philippians) Chapter 3 Of the righteousness of faith against false apostles. 1. Further, brethren, rejoice in the Lord. That I write unto you always one thing doth not grieve me, and maketh you the more sure. 2. Behold the dogs, behold the evil workers, behold the cutting in pieces! 3. For we are the circumcision, which serve God in the Spirit, and glory in Christ Jesus, and lean not on the flesh. 4. Though I also have a desire to glory in the flesh. If another man thinketh that he may glory in the flesh, I much more, 5. Circumcised on the eighth day, one of the people of Israel, of the family of Benjamin, an Ebraite of the Ebraites, and a Pharisee according to the law, 6. according to zeal a persecutor of the church, according to righteousness in the law having been blameless. 7. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ's sake. 8. For I reckon all things as evil against the abundant knowledge of JESUS Christ my Lord, for which I have reckoned all things as evil, and reckon them as filth, that I might win Christ. 9. and be found in him, that I have not my righteousness which is of the law, but which is by faith in Christ, even the righteousness that is imputed of God unto faith, 10. To know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, that I might be made like unto his death, 11. That I may come forth to the resurrection of the dead. 12. Not that I have already apprehended it, or am already perfected: but I pursue after it, if I may apprehend it, after that I am apprehended of Christ JESUS. 13. My brethren, I count not myself yet to have apprehended it. But I say this: I forget what is behind and reach out to what is ahead, 14. and pursue after the set purpose, after the jewel which holds forth the heavenly calling of GOD in Christ JEsu. 15. As many therefore as are perfect among us, let us be so minded. And if ye hold any other thing, let God reveal it unto you, 16. But so far that we walk after one rule, whereunto we are come, and are of the same mind. (Epistle on the twenty-third Sunday after Trinity.) 17. Follow me, brethren, and observe them which walk so as ye have us for an example. 18. For many walk, of whom I have often told you, but now I say also with weeping: The enemies of the cross of Christ; 19. Which end is damnation, whose belly is their God, and their glory is put to shame, of them that are earthly minded. 20. But our walk is in heaven, from whence also we wait for the Saviour JESUS CHRIST the LORD, 21. Who shall transfigure our vile body, that it may be like unto his glorified body, according to the working, that he may also subdue all things unto him]. (Philippians) Chapter 4 Of the steadfastness and spiritual joy of the Christian, of the Philippian good, Paul proved. 1. Therefore, my dear and beloved brethren, my joy and my crown, consist ye therefore in the Lord. 2. The Evodia I exhort, and the Syntyche I exhort, that they may be of one mind in the Lord. 3. Yea, I beseech thee also, my faithful companion, help them which have fought with me concerning the gospel, with Clement, and with the rest of my helpers, whose names are in the book of life. (Epistle on the fourth Sunday of Advent.) 4. Rejoice in the LORD always: and again I say, Rejoice. 5. Let your wisdom be known unto all men. The Lord is near. 6. do not be anxious about anything, but in all things let your petition be made known before God in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. 7. And the peace of God, which is above all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus]. 8. Further, brethren, whatsoever is true, whatsoever is honourable, whatsoever is just, whatsoever is chaste, whatsoever is lovely, whatsoever is good, whatsoever is virtue, whatsoever is praise, think on these things. 9. All things whatsoever ye have learned, and received, and heard, and seen of me, do; and the LORD of peace shall be with you. 10. But I am glad in the Lord, because ye have been able to take care of me again, though ye have taken care of me in every way: but the time hath not suffered. 11. I say not this because of want: for I have learned to be content with them with whom I am. 12. I can be low, and I can be high; I am skillful in all things, and in all things; both to be full, and to hunger; both to have left, and to lack. 13. I can do all things through him who makes me mighty, Christ. 14. But ye have done well that ye have taken heed to my affliction. 15. But ye of Philippi know that from the beginning of the gospel, when I went forth out of Macedonia, no church divided with me according to the account of the issue and the income, but ye only. 16. For unto Thessalonica ye sent for my need once, and afterward once. 17. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit, that it may be superfluous in your reckoning. 18. For I have all things, and have superfluous. I am fulfilled, because I received through Epaphroditus that which came from you, a sweet savour, a pleasing sacrifice, acceptable unto God. 19. But let my God satisfy all your need according to his riches in glory in Christ JESUS. 20. But unto God and unto our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 21. Hail all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22. All the saints salute you, and especially those of the emperor's house. 23. the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Written from Rome by Epaphroditus. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545 [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The letter of Paul to the Colossians ^ Chapter 1 Salvation, obtained through Christ, is offered to men by the Word. 1. Paul, an apostle of JEsu Christ by the will of GOD, and brother Timothy: 2. to the saints of Colosse and to the believing brethren in Christ. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. We give thanks to God and to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we pray for you always, 4. Having heard of your faith in Christ for JESUS' sake, and of your love for all the saints, 5. For the hope that is set before you in heaven, which ye heard before in the word of truth in the gospel, 6. Which is come unto you, as it was into all the world, and is fruitful, as it was in you, from the day that ye heard it, and knew the grace of God in truth. 7. As ye have learned of Epaphras our beloved fellow servant, which is a faithful minister of Christ unto you, 8. Who also opened to us your love in the Spirit. (Epistle on the twenty-fourth Sunday after Trinity.) 9. Therefore we also, from the day that we heard it, cease not from praying and supplicating for you, that ye may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10. That ye may walk worthy of the Lord in all pleasing, and be fruitful in all good works. 11. and grow in the knowledge of God, and be strengthened with all might according to his glorious power, in all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12. and give thanks to the Father, who hath made us fit for the inheritance of the saints in light, 13. Who hath delivered us from the dominion of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son, 14. in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins] 15. who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn before all creatures. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, both thrones, and dominions, and principalities, and authorities: all things were created by him, and for him. 17. And he is before all; and all things consist in him. 18. And he is the head of the body, which is the church; who is the beginning, and the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19. For it was his good pleasure that in him should all fullness dwell, 20. And that all things through him might be reconciled to himself, whether on earth or in heaven, that he might make peace through himself by the blood of his cross. 21. And to you, who were once aliens and enemies by reason of evil works, 22. But now he hath reconciled you to the body of his flesh by death, that he might present you holy and without blame before himself, 23. If ye continue otherwise in the faith, being established, and firm, and immovable, in the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, which was preached among every creature that is under heaven, which I Paul have ministered. 24. Now rejoicing in my sufferings which I suffer for you, I make restitution in my flesh for the afflictions which are yet lacking in Christ for his body, which is the church, 25. To whom I have become a minister according to the divine office of preaching which is given me among you, that I should preach the word of God abundantly, 26. That is, the mystery which has been hidden from the world and from the ages, but is now revealed to his saints, 27. Which God hath purposed to make known, which is the glorious riches of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, who is the hope of glory, 28. Whom we preach, and exhort all men, and teach all men with all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ JEsu, 29. I also labor and strive according to the working of him that worketh in me mightily. (Colossians) Chapter 2 Of the statutes of men, Christ, holy baptism, and the power of his death. 1. But I let you know what a struggle I have for you, and for them that are at Laodicea, and for all that have not seen my person in the flesh, 2. That their hearts may be admonished and gathered together in love to all the riches of the understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, 3. In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4. But I say of this, that no man deceive you with reasoning. 5. For though I be not here according to the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing, and beholding your precious order, and your strong faith in Christ. 6. As ye have therefore received the Lord Christ Jesus, walk ye in him. 7. And be ye rooted and established in him, and be ye firm in the faith, as ye are taught, and be ye abundantly thankful in the same. 8. Take heed that no man deprive you through philosophy and loose enticement after the doctrine of men, and after the statutes of the world, and not after Christ. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. 10. And ye are perfected in him, who is the head of all principality and authority, 11. In whom ye also are circumcised with the circumcision without hands, by the putting away of the sinful body in the flesh, even the circumcision of Christ, 12. In whom ye were buried with him by baptism; in whom also ye were raised from the dead by the faith which God wrought, who raised him from the dead. 13. And hath quickened you also with him, being dead in sins, and in the foreskin of your flesh, and hath forgiven us all our sins. 14. And hath blotted out the handwriting that was against us, which came forth by statutes, and was against us; and hath taken it out of the remedy, and nailed it to the cross. 15. And hath stripped the principalities and the mighty men, and hath made a public spectacle of them, and hath made a triumph of them by himself. 16. Let no man therefore make you conscience of meat, or of drink, or of certain feasts, or of new moons, or of sabbaths, 17. Which is the shadow of things to come; but the body itself is in Christ. 18. Let no man shift his aim, who walketh after his own choice in the humility and spirituality of angels, which he hath never seen, and is puffed up without matter in his carnal mind 19. And holdeth not to the head, out of which the whole body by joints and bands receiveth help, and cleaveth one to another, and so increaseth to the divine greatness. 20. If ye then be dead with Christ unto the statutes of the world, why are ye entangled with statutes, as though ye lived yet in the world? 21. Which say, Thou shalt not touch this, thou shalt not taste this, thou shalt not touch this, 22. Which are all consumed with hands, and are the commandment and doctrine of men; 23. Which have a semblance of wisdom through self-chosen spirituality and humility, and in that they spare not the body, neither do honor to the flesh for its need. (Colossians) Chapter 3 Exercise of godliness, especially of persons of the domestic estate. 1. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2. Seek those things which are above, and not those things which are on earth. 3. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4. But when Christ your life shall be manifested, then shall ye also be manifested with him in glory. 5. Put to death therefore your members which are upon the earth: Fornication, uncleanness, shameful rutting, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry, 6. For which the wrath of God comes upon the children of unbelief; 7. In which also ye used to walk, when ye lived therein. 8. But now put away from yourselves all wrath, anger, malice, blasphemy, and shameful words out of your mouth. 9. Lie not among yourselves. Put off the old man with his works. 10. And put on the new, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him, 11. For there is not Greek, Jew, circumcision, foreskin, unclean, scythe, bond, free, but all, and in all, Christ. (Epistle on the fifth Sunday after Epiphany.) 12. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, saints and beloved, tender mercies, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience 13. And bear with one another, forgiving one another, if any man complain of another: as Christ forgave you, so forgive ye. 14. And above all things put on charity, which is the bond of perfection. 15. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also ye are called in one body: and be ye thankful. 16. Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly in all wisdom. Teach and admonish yourselves with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing to the Lord in your hearts. 17. And whatsoever ye do in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks unto God and the Father by him. (Epistle on the sixth Sunday after Epiphany.) 18. Wives, be subject to your husbands in the Lord, as is fitting. 19. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. 20. Ye children, be obedient to your parents in all things: for this is acceptable unto the LORD. 21. Ye fathers, provoke not your children to bitterness, lest they be afraid. 22. Ye servants, be obedient in all things unto your fleshly masters, not with service before your eyes, but to please men. but with simplicity of heart and fear of the Lord. 23. Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as unto the LORD, and not unto men; 24. And know that ye shall receive of the LORD the recompence of the inheritance: for ye serve the LORD Christ. 25. But he that worketh iniquity shall receive that which he hath wronged: and no respect of persons shall be counted for him. Chap. 4, v. 1: Lords, what is right and equal, prove to your servants, and know that you also have a Lord in heaven. (Colossians) Chapter 4 Of Christian prayer and careful walk. 2. Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. 3. And at the same time pray also for us, that God may open unto us the door of the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, wherefore I also am bound, 4. that I may reveal the same, as I ought to speak. 5. Walk wisely toward them that are without, and send you into the time. 6. Let your speech always be sweet and seasoned with salt. seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. 7. How I am, all things shall Tychicus, the dear brother, and faithful servant, and fellow servant in the Lord, make known unto you, 8. Whom I have sent unto you for this purpose, that he may know how it is with you, and that he may exhort your hearts, 9. Together with Onesimus, the faithful and dear brother, who is one of yours. They will tell you everything that is due here. 10. Aristarchus my fellow prisoner saluteth you, and Mark the nephew of Barnabas, from whom ye have received certain commands (if he come unto you, receive him); 11. And Jesus, who is called Just, which are of the circumcision. These alone are my helpers in the kingdom of God, who have become a comfort to me. 12. Epaphras saluteth you, which is of you, a servant of Christ; and always with prayers do ye contend for yourselves, that ye may be perfect, and fulfilled in all the will of God. 13. I bear him witness, that he hath great diligence for you, and for them which are at Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14. Greetings unto you, Luke the physician, the beloved, and Demas. 15. Salute the brethren that are at Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in his house. 16. And when the epistle is read among you, cause it to be read also in the church at Laodicea, and that ye read that of Laodicea. 17. And say unto Archippus, Behold the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou mayest execute the same. 18. My greeting with my hand, Paul's. Remember my bonds! Grace be with you! Amen. Written from Rome by Tychicus and Onesimus. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545 [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first letter of Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians) ^ Chapter 1 Exhortation to the Thessalonians to persevere in Christianity. 1. Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, to the church at Thessalonica, in GOD the Father, and the Lord JESUS CHRIST. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2. We give thanks unto God always for you all, and remember you in our prayers without ceasing. 3. And remember your work of faith, and your labour of love, and your patience of hope, which is our Lord JESUS Christ in the sight of GOD and our Father. 4. For, brethren, beloved of God, we know how ye are chosen, 5. That our gospel was not with you in word only, but both in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in great assurance: as ye know what manner of things we were among you for your sakes. 6. And ye became our followers, and of the LORD, and received the word with joy in the Holy Ghost, through many tribulations, 7. So that ye became an example unto all the faithful of Macedonia and Achaia. 8. For the word of the LORD hath gone forth from you, not only into Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith also in God is broken forth; so that there is no need to say anything unto you. 9. For they themselves declare of you what entrance we have had unto you, and how ye are converted unto God from idols, to serve the living and true God. 10. And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he hath raised from the dead, Jesus, who hath redeemed us from the wrath to come. (1 Thessalonians) Chapter 2 Eager listeners are a great joy to faithful teachers. 1. For ye also know, brethren, of our coming unto you, that it was not in vain, 2. But when we had suffered before, and were reproached at Philippi, as ye know, we were yet glad in our God to speak the gospel of God unto you with great strife. 3. For our exhortation was not to error, nor to uncleanness, nor to craftiness, 4. But as we are approved of God, that the gospel is entrusted unto us to preach, so speak we, not as seeking to please men, but God, who trieth our hearts. 5. For we have never dealt in flattery, as ye know, nor been given to covetousness; God is witness of it. 6. Neither have sought honour of men, either of you, or of others. 7. Though we had been heavy with you as Christ's apostles, yet we have been motherly with you, as a nurse carrieth for her children. 8. So we delighted in you, and were willing to impart unto you, not only the gospel of God, but also our lives; because we loved you. 9. Ye are well mindful, brethren, of our labour and our toil: for we laboured day and night, that we might be a burden to none of you, preaching the gospel of GOD among you. 10. Of this ye are witnesses, and unto God, how holy and righteous and blameless we have been with you that believed. 11. Knowing therefore, that we, as a father to his children, admonish and comfort every one of you. 12. And have testified that ye should walk worthily before God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and to his glory. 13. Wherefore we also thank God without ceasing, that, when ye receive from us the word of divine preaching, ye receive it not as the word of men, but (as it is indeed) as the word of God; which also worketh in you that believe. 14. For ye are followers, brethren, of the churches of GOD in Judea in Christ JESUS, in that ye have suffered the same of your blood friends, that they of the Jews, 15. Who also have killed the LORD JESUS, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us, and please not GOD, and are contrary to all men, 16. For we forbid to say unto the heathen, that they may be saved, that they may fulfil their sins alway: for wrath is already come upon them at last. 17. But we, brethren, having been a while deprived of you according to the face, and not according to the heart, have hastened the more, to see your face with great longing. 18. Therefore we desired to come unto you (I, Paul) twice; and Satan hindered us. 19. For who is our hope, or joy, or crown of glory? are ye not so in the sight of our Lord JESUS CHRIST for his future? 20. For ye are our glory and our joy. (1 Thessalonians) Chapter 3 Paul's care and prayer for the Thessalonians. 1. Wherefore we would not bear it further, and were pleased to be left alone at Athens, 2. And have sent Timothy, our brother and servant of God, and our helper in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and exhort you in your faith, 3. Lest any man faint in these tribulations: for ye know that we are made for this purpose. 4. And when we were with you, we told you before that we should have tribulation: as it is, and ye know it. 5. For which cause I could no longer endure it, I sent forth to know your faith, lest peradventure temptation should try you, and our labour be in vain. 6. But now, Timothy having come to us from you, and having declared unto us your faith and love, and that ye always remember us for the best, and desire to see us, as we do to see you, 7. Then were we comforted in you, brethren, in all our affliction and distress, through your faith. 8. For now are we alive, because we stand in the LORD. 9. For what thanks may we render to God for you, for all this joy which we have from you before our God? 10. We pray almost night and day, that we may see your faces, and repay you for the lack of your faith. 11. But he, God our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, send our way unto you. 12. But let the LORD increase you, and let love be perfect among yourselves, and toward every man (as we also are toward you), 13. That your hearts, being strengthened, may be blameless in holiness before God and our Father, unto the coming of our Lord JESUS CHRIST, and of all his saints. (1 Thessalonians) Chapter 4 Exhortation to holy walk. Trust against sadness from the resurrection of the dead. (Epistle on Sunday Reminiscere.) 1. Further, brethren, we beseech you and exhort you in the Lord Jesus (after you have received from us how you ought to walk and please God), that you may be more and more complete. 2. For ye know what commandments we have given you by the Lord Jesus. 3. For this is the will of God, your sanctification, that ye avoid fornication, 4. And let every one of you keep his barrel in sanctification and honour, 5. Not in the lust pestilence like the heathen, who know nothing of GOD; 6. And that no man go too far, nor take advantage of his brother in trade: for the LORD is the avenger of all these things, as we have said and testified unto you before. 7. For God has not called us to uncleanness, but to sanctification]. 8. Whosoever therefore despiseth, despiseth not men, but God, who hath given his Holy Spirit within you. 9. But of brotherly love it is not necessary to write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. 10. And this do ye also unto all the brethren which are in all Macedonia. But we exhort you, brethren, that ye be yet more complete. 11. And run after it, that ye may be quiet, and do your own work, and work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12. That ye may walk uprightly toward them that are without, and have no need of them. (Epistle on the twenty-fifth Sunday after Trinity.) 13. But we would not, brethren, keep you from them that sleep, lest ye be sorrowful like unto them which have no hope. 14. For if we believe that JESUS died and rose again, God also will bring with him those who have fallen asleep through JESUS. 15. For this we say unto you by the word of the LORD, that we which are alive and remain unto the future of the LORD shall not precede them which are asleep. 16. For he himself, the LORD, shall come down from heaven with a shout, and with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. 17. And we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18. Comfort yourselves therefore with these words one to another:] (1 Thessalonians) Chapter 5 Of the time of the last day, and how one should prepare oneself properly for it. (Epistle on the twenty-seventh Sunday after Trinity.) 1. But of the times and hours, brethren, it is not necessary to write unto you. 2. For ye yourselves know that the day of the LORD shall come as a thief in the night. 3. For when they shall say, There is peace, there is no danger: then destruction shall quickly overtake them, as the sorrow of a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4. But ye, brethren, be not in darkness, that the day should seize you as a thief. 5. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 6. Let us not therefore sleep as others sleep, but let us watch and be sober. 7. For they that sleep sleep by night: and they that are drunken are drunken by night. 8. But we which are of the day must be sober, clothed with the cancer of faith and love, and with the helmet of hope unto salvation. 9. For God hath not set us to wrath, but to possess salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10. Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live at the same time with him. 11. Wherefore exhort one another, and build one another up, as ye do]. 12. But we beseech you, brethren, that ye know them which labour in you, and that preside over you in the Lord, and admonish you. 13. Have them the more gladly for their work's sake, and be at peace with them. 14. And we exhort you, brethren, admonish the unruly, comfort the fainthearted, bear with the weak, be patient with everyone. 15. Take heed that no man repay evil for evil, but pursue good always, both to one another, and to every man. 16. be joyful always! 17. Pray without ceasing! 18. Be thankful in all things: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you. 19. do not dampen the spirit! 20. Despise not the prophecy. 21. But try all things, and keep that which is good. 22. shun all evil appearances! 23. But he, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through, and let your spirit be kept whole, with soul and body, blameless unto the future of our Lord JEsu Christ. 24. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. 25. Dear brothers, pray for us! 26. greet all the brothers with the holy kiss. 27. I adjure you by the Lord, that ye will cause this epistle to be read unto all the holy brethren. 28. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. To the Thessalonians, the first, written from Corinth. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second letter of Paul to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians) ^ Chapter 1 Exhortation to persevere in persecution. 1. Paul and Silvanus and Timothy: To the church of Thessalonica in GOD our Father, and to the LORD JEsu Christo. 2. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. ( Epistle on the twenty-sixth Sunday after Trinity.) 3. We ought always to give thanks unto God for you, brethren, as is right. For your faith is greatly increased, and the love of every one of you toward one another is increased, 4. So that we may boast of you among the churches of God from your patience and faith in all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure, - 5. Which signifieth that God will judge aright, and ye shall be worthy of the kingdom of God, above which ye also suffer, 6. For it is right with God to repay tribulation to those who put tribulation upon you, 7. But unto you that are afflicted, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with the angels of his power. 8. And with flames of fire to give vengeance upon them that know not God, And on them that are not obedient to the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; 9. Which shall suffer torment, eternal destruction, from the presence of the LORD, and from his glorious power, 10. When he shall come, that he may appear glorious with his saints, and marvellous with all them that believe. For our testimony unto you of that day ye have believed]. 11. And therefore we pray for you always, that our God may make you worthy of the calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of goodness, and the work of faith in power, 12. That the name of our Lord JESUS Christ may be praised in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God, and of the Lord JESUS Christ. (2 Thessalonians) Chapter 2 Prophecy of the Antichrist before the last future of the Lord. 1. But for the future of our Lord JEsu Christ, and of our assembling together unto him, we beseech you, brethren, 2. That ye be not soon moved of mind, nor troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letters, as sent from us, that the day of Christ should be at hand. 3. Let no man deceive you in any way. For he cometh not, except the apostasy come first, and the man of sin be revealed, and the child of perdition, 4. Who is an abominable man, and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or God's service; so that he setteth himself in the temple of God as a god, and pretendeth that he is God. 5. Remember ye not that, while I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6. And whatsoever it is that stoppeth, know ye that he shall be revealed in his time. 7. For wickedness is already stirring up secretly, and he that stoppeth it now must be put away. 8. And then shall that wicked man be revealed, whom the LORD shall destroy with the spirit of his mouth, and shall make an end of him by the appearing of his coming, 9. That which is to come after the working of Satan with all manner of lying powers, and signs, and wonders. 10. And with all deception of unrighteousness among them that perish, because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11. Therefore God will send them strong error,- that they may believe the lie, 12. That they all may be judged who believe not the truth, but have pleasure in unrighteousness. 13. And we ought always to give thanks unto God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation in sanctification of the Spirit, and in the faith of the truth, 14. Whereunto he hath called you by our gospel unto the glorious possession of our Lord JEsu Christ. 15. Stand ye therefore, brethren, and keep the statutes which ye are taught, whether by our word or by our epistle. 16. But he our Lord Jesus Christ, And God and our Father, who hath loved us, and given us an everlasting consolation and a good hope through grace, 17. Who shall admonish your hearts, and strengthen you in all doctrine and good works. (2 Thessalonians) Chapter 3 For the course of the gospel one should pray, shunning idleness and forwardness. 1. Further, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run and be magnified, as it doth among you; 2. and that we may be delivered from evil and wicked men. For faith is not for every man. 3. But the LORD is faithful; he will strengthen you, and keep you from evil. 4. But we take care of you in the LORD, that ye do, and that ye will do, all that we command you. 5. But let the LORD direct your hearts unto the love of God, and unto the patience of Christ. 6. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord JESUS Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the statutes which he received of us. 7. For ye know how ye ought to follow us. For we have not been disorderly among you, 8. Neither have we taken bread of any man in vain: but with labour and travail day and night have we wrought, that we should not be a burden to any of you; 9. Not that we have not power, but that we give ourselves for an ensample unto you to follow us. 10. And when we were with you, we commanded you these things, that if any man will not work, neither shall he eat. 11. For we hear that there are some of you that walk disorderly, and work nothing, but are froward. 12. But unto such we command and admonish them by our Lord Jesus Christ, that they work quietly, and eat their own bread. 13. But ye, brethren, be not weary in doing good. 14. But if any man obey not our word, mark him with a letter, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. 15. Yet hold him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 16. And may he, the LORD of peace, give you peace in every place and in every way. The LORD be with you all. 17. The salutation with mine hand, Paul's hand. This is the sign in all the epistles; so I write. 18. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Written from Corinth. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first letter of Paul to Timothy (1 Timothy) ^ Chapter 1 The doctrine of the law and the gospel explained by Paul's example. 1. Paul, an apostle of JEsu Christ, according to the commandment of GOD our Saviour, and of the LORD JEsu Christ, who is our hope: 2. Timothy, my righteous son in faith. Grace, mercy, peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. 3. As I exhorted thee to tarry at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, and commanded some that they should not teach otherwise, 4. Neither heed the fables, and the genealogies, which have no end, and bring up questions, more than correction to God in faith. 5. For the chief sum of the commandment is love from a pure heart, and from a good conscience, and from unfeigned faith, 6. Of whom some have erred, and turned aside unto vain babblings, 7. Want to be masters of the Scriptures, and do not understand what they say or what they set. 8. But we know that the law is good, if any man use it aright, 9. Knowing this, that no law is given to the righteous, but to the unrighteous and rebellious, to the wicked and sinners, to the unholy and unspiritual, to murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, to slayers, 10. The fornicators, the rapists, the thieves, the liars, the perjurers, and so forth contrary to sound doctrine: 11. According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which is committed unto me. 12. And I thank our Lord JESUS Christ, which hath made me strong, and hath kept me faithful, and set me in the ministry, 13. Who before was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and a reproach. But mercy hath been shown me: for I did it ignorantly, in unbelief. 14. But the more abundant was the grace of our Lord, with faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus. 15. For this is certainly true, and your precious word, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the chief. 16. But for this cause mercy was shewed me, that in me first of all Jesus Christ might shew all patience as an example unto them which should believe on him unto eternal life. 17. But to God, the eternal King, the incorruptible and invisible, and the only wise, be glory and honor forever and ever. Amen. 18. This commandment I command thee, my son Timotheus, according to the former prophecies concerning thee, that thou exercise good chivalry in the same. 19. And have faith and a good conscience, which some have cast off, and have been shipwrecked in the faith; 20. Among whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they should be chastened to blaspheme no more. (1 Timothy) Chapter 2 How and when prayer is to be offered by men and women in the church. 1. I exhort therefore, that before all things, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men, 2. For kings and for all authorities, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all godliness and honourableness. 3. For these things are good, and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, 4. Who desires all men to be helped, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, even the man Christ JEsus, 6. Who gave himself for salvation for all, that these things should be preached in his time; 7. For I am set apart to be a preacher and an apostle (speaking the truth in Christ, and not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8. I will therefore that men pray in every place, and lift up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 9. Likewise also the women, that they adorn themselves in dainty apparel with shame and modesty, not with braids, or gold, or pearls, or precious apparel, 10. But as it behoveth women to shew godliness by good works. 11. let a woman learn in silence with all submissiveness. 12. But I will not suffer a woman to teach, neither will I suffer her to be master over her husband, but to be quiet. 13. For Adam was made first, and Eve after him. 14. And Adam was not deceived: but the woman was deceived, and brought in transgression. 15. But they shall be saved through childbearing, if they continue in faith, and in love, and in sanctification, with chastening. (1 Timothy) Chapter 3 Of the nature of the church servants and their relatives, of the church, of the mystery of godliness. 1. This is certainly true, that if any man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a goodly work. 2. But let a bishop be blameless, a wife's husband, sober, temperate, sedentary, hospitable, doctrinal, 3. not a winebibber, not a throbber, not a dishonest handler, but mild, not vindictive, not stingy, 4. Who hath well presided over his own house, who hath obedient children with all respectability. 5. (But if a man know not to preside over his own house, how shall he provide for the church of God?), 6. Not a neophyte, lest he puff himself up, and fall into the judgment of the blasphemer. 7. But he must also have a good report of them that are without, lest he fall into the blasphemers' shame and snare. 8. Likewise the servants shall be honourable, not double-minded, not winebibbers, not dealing dishonestly. 9. Who have the mystery of faith in a pure conscience. 10: And let them be tried first, and then let them serve, if they be blameless. 11. Likewise their wives shall be honourable, not blasphemous, sober, faithful in all things. 12. Let every man's servants be the husband of one wife, and let them take heed to their children, and to their own houses. 13. But they that serve well obtain for themselves a good degree, and great joy in the faith which is in Christ JESUS. 14. These things write I unto thee, and hope to come unto thee most surely. 15. But if I delay, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to walk in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 16. And great is the mystery of God: God is manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, made manifest to angels, preached to the Gentiles, believed on by the world, received up into glory. (1 Timothy) Chapter 4 Warning against seduction of the last time. Exhortation to the practice of godliness. 1. But the Spirit saith clearly, that in the last times some shall depart from the faith, and shall cleave unto the seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. 2. by them that are liars in craftiness, and have brandings in their consciences 3. and forbid to marry and to shun the food which God has created, to take with thanksgiving, the believers and those who know the truth. 4. For all the creature of God is good, and nothing reprobate that is received with thanksgiving. 5. For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. 6. If thou reprove these things unto the brethren, thou shalt be a good minister of JESUS Christ, in the words of faith and good doctrine, whereunto thou hast always been. 7. But abstain from unspiritual things, and from fables of old. But exercise thyself in godliness. 8. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness profiteth all things, and hath promise of this life, and of that which is to come. 9. This is ever certainly true, and a dear word. 10. For to this end we also labour, and are reproached, because we have hoped in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, and especially of them that believe. 11. Give and teach these things. 12. Let no man despise thy youth, but be thou an example to the faithful in word, in walk, in love, in spirit, in faith, in chastity. 13. stop reading, exhorting, teaching, until I come! 14. Forsake not the gift that is given thee by the prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the elders. 15. Wait for these things, that thy increase may be manifest in all things. 16. Take heed to thyself, and to the doctrine; persevere in these things. For where thou doest these things, thou shalt save thyself, and they that hear thee. (1 Timothy) Chapter 5 How a preacher should conduct himself against persons of different station and age, and against himself. 1. Rebuke not an old man, but admonish him as a father, the young as brethren, 2. the old women as the mothers, the young as the sisters with all chastity. 3. Honour widows that are widows indeed. 4. But if a widow have children, or nephews, let them first learn to rule their own houses godly, and repay their parents likewise: for this is well done, and acceptable in the sight of God. 5. Now this is a true widow, which is lonely, and putteth her hope in God, and continueth in prayer and supplication day and night. 6. But she that liveth in lusts is dead alive. 7. These things give, that they may be blameless. 8. But if any man provide not for his own, especially for the members of his household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than a heathen. 9. Let no widow be mentioned that is under threescore years old, or that hath been a man's wife, 10. Who hath testified of good works, when she hath brought up children, when she hath been hospitable, when she hath washed the saints' feet, when she hath ministered to the afflicted, when she hath done all good works. 11. But abstain from the young widows: for when they have become lustful against Christ, they will be free. 12. And have their judgment, that they have broken the first faith. 13. Besides this, they are idle, and go about learning in the houses: not only are they idle, but they are also talkative, and forward, and speak that which ought not to be. 14. Now therefore will I that the young widows may be free, and bring forth children, and keep house, and give no cause of reproach to the adversary. 15. For some are already turned back after Satan. 16. And if a creditor have widows, let him provide for them, and let not the church be troubled; that they which are right widows may have enough. 17. The elders that preside well shall be counted worthy of double honour, especially they that labour in the word and in doctrine. 18. For the scripture saith: Thou shalt not bind up the mouth of the ox that thresheth, and: A labourer is worthy of his hire. 19. Against an elder take no complaint, save two or three witnesses. 20. Let them that sin be punished above all, that they also may fear. 21. I testify before God, and before the Lord Jehovah Christ, and before the elect angels, that thou keepest these things without discretion, and doest nothing according to pleasure. 22. Lay not thine hands soon on any man; neither be thou partaker of the sins of others. Keep thyself chaste. 23. Drink no more water, but need a little wine for thy stomach's sake, and that thou art often sick. 24. Some men's sins are manifest, that they may be judged before: but some are manifest afterward. 25. The same also of some good works are first made manifest; neither are the rest hid. (1 Timothy) Chapter 6 Of servants, seducers and rich people. Of the struggle of faith. 1. The servants that are under the yoke shall hold their masters in all honour, lest the name of God and the doctrine be blasphemed. 2. But they that have believing masters ought not to despise them, pretending that they are brethren, but rather to serve them, because they are believers, and beloved, and partakers of the good. Teach and exhort these things. 3. If any man teach otherwise, and abide not in the saving words of our Lord JESUS Christ, and in the doctrine of godliness, 4. He is darkened and knows nothing, but is addicted to questions and wars of words, from which springs envy, strife, blasphemy, evil suspicion, 5. The scholastic quarrels of such men, who are senseless and deprived of the truth, who think that godliness is a trade. Get thee from such! 6. But there is great profit to him that is godly, and is content. 7. For we have brought nothing into the world; therefore it is evident that we shall bring nothing out. 8. But if we have food and raiment, let us be content. 9. For they that desire to be rich fall into temptation and snares, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which sink men into destruction and perdition. 10. For covetousness is the root of all evil, which some have lusted after, and have erred from the faith, and cause themselves much pain, 11. But thou, O man of God, flee these things. But pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12. Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou also art called, and hast confessed a good confession before many witnesses. 13. I command thee in the sight of GOD, who quickeneth all things, and in the sight of Christ JEsu, who testified a good confession under Pontius Pilate, 14. That thou keep the commandment without spot, blameless, until the appearing of our Lord JEsu Christ, 15. Which the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords, shall shew in his days, 16. He only hath immortality; he that dwelleth in a light where no man can come; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to him be glory and everlasting kingdom. Amen. 17. Command the rich of this world that they be not proud, neither hope in riches uncertain, but in the living God, who giveth us abundantly to enjoy all things, 18. That they may do good, abound in good works, give gladly, be helpful, 19. To lay up for themselves treasures, a good foundation for the things to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. 20. O Timothy, keep that which is committed unto thee, and shun unspiritual idle talk, and the strife of false praise, 21. Which some pretend and lack faith. Grace be unto thee! Amen. Written by Laodicea, which is a capital of the country Phrygia Pacatiana. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second letter of Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy) ^ Chapter 1 Exhortation to persevere in pure doctrine when persecuted. 1. Paul, an apostle of JEsu Christ by the will of GOD according to the promise of life in Christ JEsu: 2. grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ our Lord to my dear son Timothy. 3. I thank GOD, whom I serve from my forefathers in a clear conscience, that I remember thee without ceasing in my prayer day and night. 4. And I long to see thee, when I remember thy tears, that I may be filled with joy. 5. And remember the undimmed faith in thee, which dwelt before in thy grandmother Lois, and in thy mother Eunice, but am sure that in thee also. 6. For which cause I remind thee, that thou stirest up the gift of God which is in thee by the laying on of my hands. 7. for God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of discipline. 8. Therefore be not ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me, who am his bondman; but suffer thyself with the gospel, as I do, according to the power of God, 9. Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, 10. But now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour JEsu Christ, who hath taken away the power of death, and hath brought life and an incorruptible nature to light through the gospel, 11. To whom I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. 12. For what cause I suffer these things, but I am not ashamed: for I know in whom I believe, and am sure that he is able to keep my salvation unto that day. 13. Hold fast the example of the wholesome words which thou hast heard of me, concerning faith and love in Christ JEsu. 14. This good supplement keep through the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. 15. This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia are turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. 16. The LORD have mercy on the house of Onesiphorus: for he hath often refreshed me, and hath not been ashamed of my chains, 17. But when he was at Rome, he sought me most diligently, and found me. 18. The LORD grant that he may find mercy in the LORD in that day. And how much he hath ministered unto me in Ephesus, thou knowest best. (2 Timothy) Chapter 2 Faithful ministering of Timothy. Comfort in suffering. Avoidance of some vices. 1. Be strong therefore, my son, through grace in Christ JESUS. 2. And the things which thou hast heard of me by many witnesses, command faithful men, which are able, to teach others also. 3. suffer thyself to be a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST! 4. No man of war fighteth himself in the merchandise of food, that he may please him that hath accepted him. 5. And though a man fight, yet shall he not be crowned, if he fight aright. 6. But the husbandman that tilleth the field shall first enjoy the fruits thereof. Mark what I say! 7. But the LORD shall give thee understanding in all things. 8. Keep in remembrance Jesus Christ, who is risen from the dead, of the seed of David, according to my gospel, 9. Over which I suffer unto the bonds as an evildoer. But God's word is not bound. 10. Therefore I suffer all things for the elect's sake, that they also may obtain blessedness in Christ JEsu with everlasting glory. 11. This is ever certainly true: if we die with them, we shall live with them; 12. If we forbear, we shall reign with him; if we deny, he also will deny us. 13. If we believe not, he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. 14. Remind them of this, and testify before the LORD that they do not quarrel about words, which is of no profit but to turn away them that hear. 15. Make every effort to present to God a righteous, blameless worker, who rightly divides the word of truth. 16. Forsake unspiritual and idle babblings: for they do much to an ungodly nature. 17. And their word devoureth as the canker, among which are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18. Which have erred from the truth, saying that the resurrection is past, and have perverted the faith of some. 19. But the firm foundation of God standeth, and hath this seal: The LORD knoweth them that are his, and: Let him depart from unrighteousness that calleth the name of Christ. 20. Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also vessels of wood and earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. 21. If any man therefore purge himself from such men, he shall be a holy vessel unto honour, fit for the master of the house, and prepared for all good works. 22. Flee the lusts of youth. But pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with the aged, who call upon the Lord with a pure heart. 23. But abstain from foolish and vain questions: for thou knowest that they bring forth strife. 24. But one of the LORD shall not be quarrelsome, but shall be kind to all, instructive, able to bear the wicked with meekness. 25. And punish the unruly, whether God will one day give them repentance to know the truth, 26. And be sober again from the snare of the devil, by whom they are bound to his will. (2 Timothy) Chapter 3 Of the dreadful last times. Of the glorious use of the Holy Scriptures. 1. But this thou shalt know, that in the last days there shall be terrible times. 2. For there shall be men that think evil of themselves, covetous, boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unspiritual, 3. disruptive, unforgiving, abuser, unchaste, wild, unkind, 4. traitors, sacrilegious, puffed up, who love lust more than God, 5. Who have the appearance of godliness, but deny his power. And such avoid! 6. Of the same are they that creep to and fro into the houses, and lead captive the women that are laden with sins, and that go about with divers lusts, 7. are always learning, and can never come to the knowledge of the truth. 8. But as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so these also withstood the truth: they are men of corrupt minds, unfit to believe. 9. But they shall not be long: for their folly shall be made manifest unto all men, even as he was. 10. But thou hast known my doctrine, my manner, my opinion, my faith, my longsuffering, my love, my patience, 11. My persecution, my sufferings, which happened unto me in Antioch, in Iconium, in Lystra, what persecutions I endured: and out of all these the LORD delivered me. 12. And all they that will live godly in Christ JEsu must suffer persecution. 13. But with wicked men and seducers, the longer the worse, the more they seduce, and are seduced. 14. But continue thou in that which thou hast learned, and hast trusted in, knowing of whom thou hast learned. 15. And because thou hast known the scriptures from thy infancy, the same can instruct thee unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16. For all scripture, inspired of God, is profitable for doctrine, for judgment, for correction, for chastening in righteousness, 17. That a man of God may be perfect, fitted for all good works. (2 Timothy) Chapter 4 Good oversight needed in the preaching ministry. Paul's struggle and crown. 1. Now therefore I testify before God, and before the Lord JESUS CHRIST, who is to come to judge the quick and the dead, with his appearing and with his kingdom: 2. Preach the word; stop, whether in season or out of season; chasten, rebuke, exhort with all patience and doctrine. 3. For there shall be a time when they shall not suffer sound doctrine, but according to their own lusts shall they load themselves with teachers, after which their ears shall itch; 4. And shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall turn to fables. 5. But be thou sober in all things. Suffer thyself, do the work of an evangelical preacher, judge thy ministry honestly. 6. For I am already offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7. I have fought a good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. 8. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the LORD the righteous judge shall give me in that day: and not unto me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 9. Diligent thyself, that thou mayest come unto me quickly. 10. For Demas hath left me, and loved this world, and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia; Titus to Dalmatia. 11. Luke is alone with me Mark take unto thee, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable unto me for the service. 12. Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. 13. The mantle which I left at Troas with Carpo, bring with thee when thou comest, and the books, and especially the parchment. 14. Alexander, the blacksmith hath shewed me much evil: let the LORD pay him according to his works. 15. From whom also beware: for he hath greatly withstood our words. 16. In my first responsibility no man stood with me, but they all forsook me. Let it not be imputed to them! 17. And the LORD stood by me, and strengthened me, that through me the preaching might be confirmed, and that all the Gentiles might hear. And I am delivered out of the lion's mouth. 18. But the LORD will deliver me from all evil, and will help me to his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 19. greetings Priska and Aquila and the house Onesiphorus. 20. Erastus remained at Corinth; but Trophimus I left sick at Miletus. 21. Do diligently, that thou come before winter. Greetings to you from Eubulus and Pudens and Linus and Klaudia and all the brothers. 22. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit! Grace be with you! Amen. Written from Rome, the other epistle to Timothy, when Paul was presented for the second time before the emperor Nero. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The letter of Paul to Titus ^ Chapter 1 With what persons the office of preaching is to be appointed, and what the office of the preacher is. 1. Paul, a servant of GOD, but an apostle of JEsu Christ according to the faith of the elect of GOD and the knowledge of the truth unto godliness, 2. In hope of eternal life, which he that lieth not, GOD, promised before the times of the world, 3. But hath in his time revealed his word by the preaching which is committed unto me, according to the commandment of God our Saviour: 4. Titus, my righteous son, according to the faith of both of us: Grace, mercy, peace, from God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour. 5. For this cause I left thee in Crete, that thou shouldest make a full end of it, as I left it, and fill the cities to and fro with the elders, as I commanded thee; 6. If any man be blameless, the husband of a wife, having faithful children, not reproached for their revelry and disobedience. 7. For a bishop shall be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not angry, not a winebibber, not thumping, not dealing dishonestly, 8. but hospitable, kind, chaste, just, holy, chaste. 9. Holding fast the word that is sure and able to teach, that he may be mighty to exhort by sound doctrine, and to punish them that speak evil. 10. For there are many impudent and vain babblers and seducers, especially of the circumcision, 11. Whom it is necessary to shut up, who pervert whole houses, and teach that which is not good, for shameful gain. 12. One of them hath said, their own prophet, The Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, and foul bellies. 13. This testimony is true. For this cause punish them severely, that they may be sound in the faith. 14. and pay no attention to the Jewish fables and commandments of men, which turn away from the truth. 15. All things are clean unto the pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing clean, but both their mind and conscience are defiled. 16. They say that they know God, but by their works they deny it, because they are those in whom God is abominable, and do not obey, and are unfit for any good work. (Titus) Chapter 2 Rules of life of different estates to observe for the sake of God's grace appeared. 1. But speak thou according to the sound doctrine: 2. To the aged, that they may be sober, honourable, chaste, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3. To the old women of the same kind, that they should behave themselves according to the manner of the saints, not blasphemers, not winebibbers, but good teachers, 4. That they may teach the young women to be chaste, to love their husbands, to love children, 5. To be chaste, domestic, kind, subject to their husbands, lest the word of God be blasphemed. 6. In like manner exhort the young men to be chaste. 7. But in every place set thyself for an ensample of good works, with doctrine unadulterated, with uprightness, 8. With a wholesome and blameless word, that the wicked may be ashamed, and have nothing to say evil of us. 9. To the servants, that they may be subject unto their masters, to do them good in all things, not to bark against them, 10. not to betray, but to show all good faith, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. (Epistle on Christmas Day.) 11. For the saving grace of God hath appeared unto all men. 12. And discipline us, that we may deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and live chastely, righteously, and godly, in this world. 13. and wait for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of the great God and of our Saviour JEsu Christ, 14. Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all unrighteousness, and purify unto himself a people for a possession, diligent to do good works. 15. Speak these things, and exhort, and rebuke with all earnestness. Let no man despise thee. (Titus) Chapter 3 To honor authorities, to praise God's goodness, to avoid useless questions and heretics. 1. remind them to be subject and obedient to princes and authorities, ready for all good works, 2. not to blaspheme, not to quarrel, to be gentle, to show all meekness toward all men. 3. For we also in old time were unwise, disobedient, erring, serving the lusts and divers desires, walking in malice and envy, hating one another. (Epistle on the second day of Christ.) 4. But the kindness and goodness of God our Saviour appeared, 5. Not because of the works of righteousness which we had done, but according to his mercy he made us blessed by the bath of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, 6. Which he hath abundantly poured out upon us through JESUS Christ our Saviour: 7. That by His grace we might be justified and inherit eternal life according to the hope.]. 8. This is certainly true. These things I would have thee teach firmly, that they which have believed in God may be found in a state of good works. This is good and profitable for men. 9. But abstain from foolish questions, and from genealogies, and from disputings, and from strifes concerning the law: for they are vain and empty. 10. Avoid a heretical man, when he hath been admonished once and again, 11. And know that such a one is perverse, and sinneth, as he that hath condemned himself. 12. When I shall send unto thee Artemas, or Tychicus, come quickly unto me to Nicopolis: for there I have determined to dwell for the winter. 13. Finish Zenas the scribe and Apollos with diligence, that nothing be broken to them. 14. But let ours also learn to be found in the state of good works, where they are needed; that they be not unfruitful: 15. All who are with me greet you. Greetings to all who love us in faith. Grace be with you all! Amen. Written by Nikopolis in Macedonia. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The letter of Paul to Philemon ^ Paul's intercession for Onesimus the converted servant. 1. Paul, the bound of Christ JEsu, and Timotheus, the brother: Philemon, the beloved, and our helper, 2. And Appian, the beloved, and Archippus, our contender, and the congregation of thy house. 3. Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 4. I thank my God and remember you always in my prayer, 5. Having heard of the love and faith which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints, 6. That your faith, which we have one with another, may be strengthened in you by the knowledge of all the good things which ye have in Christ Jesus. 7. But we have great joy and comfort in thy love: for the hearts of the saints are refreshed through thee, dear brother. . 8. Therefore, though I have great joy in Christ, to command thee that which is right for thee, 9. But for love's sake I will only exhort, who am such a one, that is, an old Paul, but now also a bondman of JEsu Christ. 10. Thus I exhort thee for my son's sake, Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bands, 11. Which was useless unto thee, but is now profitable unto thee and me: him have I sent again. 12. But thou wilt receive him, that is, my own heart. 13. For I would keep him with me, to minister in thy stead in the bonds of the gospel; 14. But without thy will I would do nothing, that thy good might not be required, but willing. 15. But peradventure for this cause he came from thee for a season, that thou mightest have him again for ever, 16. Now not more than a servant, but more than a servant, a dear brother, especially to me: how much more to thee, both according to the flesh, and in the Lord? 17. If therefore thou thinkest me thy companion, receive him as thyself. 18. But if he hath wronged thee, or if he be guilty of any thing, impute it unto me. 19. I, Paul, have written it with mine hand; I will pay it. I hold my peace, that thou owest thyself unto me. 20. Yea, dear brother, grant that I may delight myself in thee in the LORD: quicken my heart in the LORD. 21. I have written unto thee out of confidence of thy obedience: for I know that thou wilt do more than I say. 22. Besides prepare me an inn: for I hope that by your prayer I shall be given unto you. 23. Epaphras saluteth thee, my fellow prisoner in Christ JEsu, 24. Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my assistants. 25. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. Written by Rome through Onesimus. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545 [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Letter to the Hebrews ^ Chapter 1 Christ is the Son of God and higher than the angels and all creatures. (Epistle on the third day of Christmas, or the day of John the Apostle.) 1. After the times of old God spake sometimes and divers manners unto the fathers by the prophets, 2. He hath spoken unto us in the last of these days by the Son, whom he hath made heir of all things, by whom also he made the world; 3. Who, being the brightness of his glory, and the image of his being, and bearing all things with his powerful word, and having made the purification of our sins by himself, is set on the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4. Being so much better than the angels, that he hath inherited so much of a higher name before them. 5. For to what angel did he ever say, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be his father, and he shall be my son? 6. And again, when he bringeth in the firstborn into the world, he saith, And all the angels of God shall worship him. 7. Of the angels indeed he saith: He maketh his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire; 8. But of the Son, God, thy throne endureth for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a true sceptre. 9. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity: therefore, O God, thy God hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows; 10. and: Thou, O LORD, hast founded the earth from the beginning, and the heavens are the work of thy hands. 11. These shall pass away, but thou shalt remain: and they shall all pass away as a garment, 12. And as a garment shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed. But thou art the same, and thy years shall not cease]. 13. And to what angel did he ever say, Sit thou at my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? 14. Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them that shall inherit blessedness? (Hebrews) Chapter 2 The doctrine of Christ is to be received and accepted. 1. Therefore we ought the more to hearken unto the word which we hear, that we go not away. 2. For if the word which was spoken by angels be established, and every transgression and disobedience receive their due reward: 3. How shall we escape, if we regard not such blessedness? which, after it was first preached by the Lord, it came upon us by them that heard it. 4. And God bore witness to them with signs and wonders and various powers, and with the dispensation of the Holy Spirit according to His will. 5. For he hath not put the angels in charge of the world to come, whereof we speak. 6. And there is one that testifieth in one place, saying, What is man, that thou rememberest him? and the Son of man, that thou visitest him? 7. Thou hast made him lack a little time of angels: with glory and honour hast thou crowned him, and hast set him over the works of thy hands; 8. Thou hast put all things under his feet. In that he hath put all things under him, he hath left nothing that is not subject unto him: but now we see not yet that all things are subject unto him. 9. But the one who lacked a little time of angels, we see that it is JEsus, crowned with glory and honor through suffering of death, that by the grace of GOD he might taste death for all. 10. For it behoved him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, who hath brought many children unto glory, to make perfect the duke of their blessedness through sufferings. 11. For they all come of one, both he that sanctifieth, and they that are sanctified. Therefore he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12. Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, and will sing praise unto thee in the midst of the congregation. 13. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold, I and the children which God hath given me. 14. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he is likewise made partaker of them, that through death he might take away the power of him that had the power of death, that is, of the devil, 15. And redeemed them which through fear of death were servants all their days. 16. For nowhere doth he take the angels unto himself, but the seed of Abraham doth he take unto himself. 17. Therefore he had to become like his brethren in all things, that he might be merciful, and a faithful high priest before God, to make reconciliation for the sin of the people. 18. For in that he hath suffered, and is tempted, he is able to help them that are tempted. (Hebrews) Chapter 3 Let Christ, the excellent teacher of the New Testament, be heard. 1. Wherefore, holy brethren, which are called together with you by the heavenly calling, take heed to the apostle and high priest, whom we confess, Christ JEsu, 2. Who is faithful to him that made him (as also Moses) in all his house. 3. And this man is worthy of more honour than Moses: for he that prepareth the house hath more honour in it than the house. 4. For every house is prepared by one: but he that prepareth all things is God. 5. And Moses indeed was faithful in all his house as a servant for a testimony of that which should be spoken; 6. But Christ as a son over his house: which house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the glory of the hope firm unto the end. 7. Therefore, as the Holy Ghost saith, To day, if ye shall hear his voice, 8. Then harden not your hearts, as was done in the day of temptation in the wilderness, 9. When your fathers tried me, they tested me, and saw my works forty years; 10. Therefore was I indignant against this generation, and said: Their hearts do always err, but they knew not my ways, 11. That I also sware in mine anger, that they should not come into my rest. 12. Take heed, brethren, lest any of you have an evil and unbelieving heart, which depart from the living God, 13. But exhort yourselves every day, as long as it is called this day, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14. For we are made partakers of Christ, if by any other means we hold fast the things which we have begun unto the end, 15. As long as it is said: Today, if ye shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as was done in bitterness. 16. For some of them, when they heard, did provoke to bitterness, but not all they that came out of Egypt by Moses. 17. But over whom was he indignant forty years? Is it not so, that over them which sinned their bodies perished in the wilderness? 18. And to whom sware he that they should not come to his rest, but to the unbelievers? 19. And we see that they cannot enter in because of unbelief. (Hebrews) Chapter 4 How to come to the rest of Christ. 1. Let us therefore fear, lest we neglect the promise of entering into his rest, and let none of us be left behind. 2. For it was preached unto us as well as unto them: but the word of preaching did not profit them, because they believed not when they heard it. 3. For we which believe enter into rest, as he saith, That I sware in mine anger, that they should not enter into my rest. And that is, since the works were made from the foundation of the world, 4. Thus spake he in one place of the seventh day, saying, And God rested on the seventh day from all his works. 5. And here in this place again, They shall not come into my rest. 6. Now after that it is yet present, that some should come unto the same: and they to whom it was first preached came not to it because of unbelief, 7. And again he appointed a day after that long time, and said by David, To day, as it is said, to day, if ye shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts. 8. For if Joshua had put them to rest, he would not afterward have said of another day. 9. Therefore there is yet a rest unto the people of God. 10. For he that is come to his rest resteth also from his works, even as God from his. 11. Let us therefore be diligent to enter into this rest, lest any man fall into the same specimen of unbelief. 12. For the word of God is living, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of marrow and bone, and is a judge of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13. And no creature is invisible in his sight: but all things are naked and discovered in his sight: of whom we speak. (Hebrews) Chapter 5 Holding Christ and Aaron against each other. 14. Forasmuch then as we have a great high priest, Jesus the Son of God, which is gone up to heaven, let us hold fast the confession. 15. For we have not an high priest, which cannot have compassion on our infirmities; but is in all things tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16. Let us therefore approach joyfully unto the mercy seat, that we may receive mercy, and find grace in time of need. Ch.5. v. 1. For every high priest that is taken from among men is set apart for men against God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins, 2. Who could have compassion on them that are ignorant and err, being himself also compassed about with infirmity. 3. Therefore must he also, as for the people, so also for himself, sacrifice for sins. 4. And no man taketh glory to himself, but he also that is called of God, as Aaron. 5. So Christ also did not set himself in glory to be high priest, but he that said unto him: Thou art my Son: this day have I begotten thee. 6. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. 7. And in the days of his flesh he offered up prayer and supplication with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to deliver him from death: and he was heard, because he honoured God. 8. And though he was the Son of God, yet by the things which he suffered he learned obedience. 9. And when he was finished, he became unto all them that obey him a cause of eternal salvation, 10. Called of GOD a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. 11. Of this we might have much to speak: but it is hard, because ye have so little understanding. 12. And when ye are long since masters, ye need again to be taught the first letters of the divine words, and to be given milk, and not strong meat. 13. For he that is yet to be given milk is inexperienced in the word of righteousness: for he is a young child. 14. But unto them that are perfect belongeth strong meat; and they that have a habit have exercised senses to discern good from evil. (Hebrews) Chapter 6 Warning against waste. Exhortation to constancy. 1. Therefore let us now leave the doctrine of the beginning of the Christian life, and let us go on to perfection, not again laying the foundation of repentance of dead works, of faith in God, 2. Of baptism, of doctrine, of the laying on of hands, of the resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3. And this we will do, if God will permit it otherwise. 4. For it is impossible for them that are once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and are made partakers of the Holy Ghost 5. And have tasted the gracious word of GOD and the powers of the world to come, 6. Wherefore they fall away, and again crucify unto themselves the Son of God, and hold him in derision, that they should be renewed again unto repentance: 7. For the earth that drinketh the rain that cometh upon it oftentimes, and comfortably beareth herbage unto them that build it, receiveth blessing from God. 8. But she that beareth thorns and thistles is unfit, and nigh unto the curse, and shall be burned at the last. 9. But we have better things in store for you, O beloved, and that salvation may be nearer, though we speak thus. 10. For God is not unjust, that he should forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed in his name, in that ye have ministered unto the saints, and do minister unto them. 11. But we desire that every one of you show the same diligence to hold fast hope unto the end, 12. That ye be not slothful, but followers of them which through faith and patience inherit the promises. 13. For when God promised Abraham, seeing he had no greater to swear by, he sware by himself 14. And said, Verily I will bless thee, and multiply thee. 15. And so he bore patience, and obtained the promise. 16. Men swear by a greater than they: and the oath maketh an end of all strife, that it may stand fast among them. 17. But God, desiring to prove exceedingly unto the heirs of the promise, that his counsel wavereth not, hath added an oath unto it: 18. That we through two parts which waver not (for it is impossible for God to lie) might have strong consolation, which have refuge, and hold fast to the hope that is offered, 19. Which we have for a sure and steadfast anchor of our souls, which goeth even into the inward parts of the veil, 20. Whereunto the forerunner is passed over for us, Jesus, a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews) Chapter 7 Comparison of Christ with Melchizedek. 1. Now this Melchizedek was a king of Salem, a priest of God most high, which went out to meet Abraham, when he was returned from the battle of the kings, and blessed him, 2. To whom also Abraham gave tithes of all goods. In the first place he is interpreted a king of righteousness; but afterward he is also a king of Salem, that is, a king of peace; 3. Without father, without mother, without generation; having neither beginning of days, nor end of life. But he is likened unto the Son of God, and remaineth a priest for ever. 4. And, behold, how great is he, to whom also Abraham the patriarch giveth tithes of the spoil that he hath taken! 5. Though the children of Levi, when they receive the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people, that is, of their brethren, according to the law, though they also came out of the loins of Abraham. 6. But he whose family is not named among them took tithes from Abraham, and blessed him that had the promise. 7. Now therefore, without any gainsaying, the inferior is blessed by the superior. 8. And here the tithes are taken by men that die: but there he testifieth that he liveth. 9. And that I may say, It is also Levi, which taketh tithes, tithed by Abraham. 10. For he was ever yet in the loins of his father, when Melchizedek met him. 11. If therefore perfection was by the Levitical priesthood, (for under the same the people received the law,) what need is there to say that another priest should arise after the order of Melchizedek, and not after the order of Aaron? 12. For where the priesthood is changed, there must the law be changed also. 13. For of whom these things are spoken, he is of another generation, of whom none hath ever ministered unto the altar. 14. For it is evident that out of Judah our Lord is risen: to which generation Moses spake not of the priesthood. 15. And it is yet more clear, if after the manner of Melchizedek another priest arise, 16. Which is not made according to the law of carnal commandment, but according to the power of infinite life. 17. For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. 18. For the former law is abolished, because it was weak, and of no profit. 19. (For the law could not make anything perfect), and is introduced a better hope, by which we draw near to God; 20. And in addition, which is much, not without an oath. For those have been priests without oath; 21. And this with an oath by him that saith unto him, The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent of him, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. 22. So then of so much better testament became JEsus. 23. And there are many that have become priests, because death hath not left them; 24. But this, because he abideth for ever, hath an everlasting priesthood; 25. Therefore he also is able to save forever them that come unto God by him, and live forever, and pray for them. 26. For we ought to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, without blemish, separate from sinners, and higher than the heavens, 27. Who had not need daily, as did those chief priests, to offer sacrifice first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people: for this he did once, when he offered himself. 28. For the law maketh men high priests in weakness: but this word of the oath, which is spoken under the law, maketh the Son eternal and perfect. (Hebrews) Chapter 8 Comparison of the priesthood of Christ with the priesthood of the Levites. 1. Now this is the summa of which we speak: We have such a high priest sitting on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven; 2. And is a keeper of the holy things, and of the true tabernacle, which God hath set up, and no man. 3. For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices. Therefore he also must have something to offer. 4. Now if he were on the earth, he would not be a priest, because there are priests who offer the gifts according to the law, 5. Which serve for the pattern and shadow of heavenly things: as the divine answer spake unto Moses, when he finished the tabernacle: See thou, said he, that thou make all things after the image which is shewed thee in the mount. 6. But now he hath obtained a better office, as he that is the mediator of a better testament, which is also upon better promises. 7. For if that, the first, had been blameless, room would not have been sought for another. 8. For he reproved them, saying, Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new testament concerning the house of Israel, and concerning the house of Judah; 9. Not according to the testament which I made with their fathers in the day that I took their hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt. For they abode not in my testament: neither have I regarded them, saith the LORD. 10. For this is the testament which I will make unto the house of Israel after those days, saith the LORD; I will put my laws in their mind, and in their heart will I write them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 11. And let no man teach his neighbour, nor his brother, saying, Know the LORD. For they shall all know me, from the least even unto the greatest. 12. For I will be merciful to their iniquity and their sins, and their unrighteousness will I remember no more. 13. In saying, A new thing, he maketh the first old. But that which is old, and waxen old, is nigh unto his end. (Hebrews) Chapter 9 The tabernacle and the Levitical sacrifices a model of the high priestly office of Christ. 1. Though the first also had its rights of worship and outward holiness. 2. For there was set up the front of the tabernacle, and in it the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread: and these are called the holy things. 3. And behind the other curtain was the tabernacle which is called the holy of holies. 4. Which had the censer of gold, and the ark of the testament overlaid all over with gold, wherein was the gelt of gold, which had the bread of heaven, and the rod of Aaron, which had the foundation, and the tables of the testament. 5. And above were the cherubims of glory, overshadowing the mercy seat; of which it is not now to be said in particular. 6. When these things were thus prepared, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, and performed the service. 7. And into the other went the high priest only once in the year, not without blood, to offer for himself, and for the ignorance of the people. 8. That the Holy Ghost might signify, that as long as the first tabernacle stood, the way to holiness was not yet made manifest, 9. Which in those days was a pattern, in the which gifts and sacrifices were offered, and could not make him perfect in conscience that worshippeth. 10. With meat and drink only, and divers baptisms, and outward holiness, which are laid up until the time of correction. (Epistle on Sunday Judica.) 11. But Christ is come to be an high priest of things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, which is not made with hands, that is, which is not so made; 12. Neither by the blood of goats, nor by the blood of calves: but by his own blood he entered into the holy things once, and made an everlasting redemption. 13. For the blood of bullocks and of goats, and the ashes sprinkled from the heifer, sanctifieth the unclean unto spotlessness of the flesh, 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who offered Himself without change to God through the Holy Spirit, cleanse our conscience from dead works to serve the living God! 15. And for this cause he is also a mediator of the new testament, that through the death which was wrought for redemption from the transgressions which were under the first testament they which are called might receive the promised eternal inheritance]. 16. For where there is a will, there must be the death of him that made the will. 17. For a will is established by death; otherwise it hath no power yet, if he that made it be alive. 18. Therefore also the first was not made without blood. 19. For when Moses had spoken all the commandments of the law unto all the people, he took the blood of calves and of goats, and water, and purple wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the book, and all the people. 20. And said, This is the blood of the testament which God hath commanded you. 21. And he sprinkled the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the service, with blood of the same kind. 22. And almost all things are purged with blood according to the law. And without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. 23. So then the heavenly things had to be purified with such an offering; but they themselves, the heavenly things, must have better offerings than these were. 24. For Christ is not entered into the holy things which are made with hands (which is the antitype of the righteous), but into heaven itself, now to appear before the face of God for us. 25. Neither shall he offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with strange blood. 26. Otherwise he should have suffered many times from the beginning of the world. But now, at the end of the world, he has appeared once to put away sin by his own sacrifice. 27. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, 28. So Christ was once offered to take away many sins. But the second time he shall appear without sin unto them that wait for him unto salvation. ((Hebrews) Chapter 10 The excellence of Christ's atoning sacrifice. 1. For the law hath the shadow of the good things to come, and not the nature of the good things themselves. Every year they offer the same sacrifice, and they that offer it cannot be made perfect; 2. Otherwise the sacrifice would have ceased, where those who are at the service would have no more conscience of sins, if they were once purified; 3. But by them only is there a remembrance of sins every year. 4. For it is impossible to take away sins by the blood of bulls and goats. 5. Therefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifices and offerings thou didst not desire; but the body thou hast prepared for me. 6. burnt offerings and sin offerings are not pleasing to you. 7. Then said I, Behold, I come; in the book it is chiefly written of me, that I should do thy will, O God. 8. When he had said, Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings, thou didst not desire them; neither did they please thee (which are offered according to the law), 9. And he said, Behold, I come to do thy will, O God. And he abolished the first, that he might establish the other. 10. In which will we are sanctified, being once made holy by the sacrifice of the body of JESUS CHRIST. 11. And every priest is ordained to minister every day, and oftentimes to offer the same sacrifice, which never taketh away sins. 12. But this man, having offered a sacrifice for sins which endureth for ever, sitteth now at the right hand of God. 13. And wait hence, till his enemies be made the footstool of his feet. 14. For with one offering hath he perfected for ever them that are sanctified. 15. Now the Holy Ghost also testifieth unto us. For after he had said before: 16. This is the testament which I will make unto them after those days, saith the LORD; I will put my law in their hearts, and in their minds will I write it, 17. And their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. 18. But where they are forgiven, there is no more offering for sin. 19. Therefore we have, brethren, the joy of entering into the holy things through the blood of JESUS, 20. Whom he hath prepared for us a new and living way through the veil, that is, through his flesh, 21. And have a high priest over the house of GOD: 22. Let us therefore go with a true heart, in full faith, having our hearts sprinkled, and being loosed from an evil conscience, and having our bodies washed with pure water; 23. And let us hold fast the confession of hope, and not waver: for he is faithful that promised it. 24. And let us take heed to ourselves one to another with charms of love and good works. 25. And not forsaking our assembling together, as some do, but exhorting one another, and that much more, as ye see the day approaching. 26. For if we sin wilfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, we have no more sacrifice for sins, 27. But a dreadful waiting of judgment, and of fiery anger, which shall devour the abominable. 28. If any man break the law of Moses, he shall die without mercy by two or three witnesses. 29. How much more grievous punishment think ye that he shall deserve who treadeth under foot the Son of God, and dishonoureth the blood of the testament by which he was sanctified, and reproacheth the Spirit of grace? 30. For we know him that said, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the LORD. And again, The LORD will judge his people. 31. It is terrible to fall into the hands of the living God. 32. But remember the former days, in which ye, being enlightened, endured a great struggle of affliction, 33. partly to have been a spectacle himself through shame and affliction, partly to have had fellowship with those who are so afflicted. 34. For ye had compassion on my bonds, and endured the spoil of your goods with gladness, as knowing that with yourselves ye have a better and an enduring possession in heaven. 35. Throw not away your confidence, which hath great reward. 36. But patience is necessary for you, that ye may do the will of God, and receive the promise. 37. For yet a little while, and he that shall come shall come, and not be pardoned. 38. But the righteous shall live by faith. But he that shall depart, in him shall my soul have no pleasure. 39. But we are not of them that depart and are condemned, but of them that believe and save the soul. (Hebrews) Chapter 11 Of the saving faith. 1. Now faith is a certain assurance of that which is hoped for, and not doubting that which is not seen. 2. By whom the ancients received testimony. 3. By faith we know that the world is finished by the word of God, that all things which are seen are made of nothing. 4. By faith Abel offered unto God a greater sacrifice than Kam, by which he bare witness that he was righteous, when God testified of his offering: and by the same he speaketh yet, though he were dead. 5. By faith Enoch was taken away, that he should not see death; and was not found, because God took him away: for before he was taken away he had testimony that he pleased God. 6. but without faith it is impossible to please God; for he who would come to God must believe that he is and will be a recompense to those who seek him. 7. By faith Noah honoured God, and prepared the ark for the salvation of his house, when he received a divine commandment from him that was not yet seen; by which he condemned the world, and inherited the righteousness that cometh by faith. 8. By faith Abraham was obedient, when he was called to go forth into the land which he should inherit: and he went forth, and knew not whither he went. 9. By faith he was a stranger in the land of promise, as in a strange land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the joint-heirs of the same promise. 10. For he waited for a city that hath a foundation, whose builder and maker is GOD. 11. By faith also Sarah received strength, and conceived, and bare beyond the days of her old age: for she esteemed him faithful that had promised. 12. Therefore also of one, as though his body were dead, many are born, as the stars of heaven, and as the sand upon the brink of the sea, which is innumerable. 13. All these died in faith, and received not the promise, but saw it afar off, and were put off, and were well satisfied, and confessed that they were sojourners and strangers on the earth. 14. For they that say these things shew that they seek a fatherland. 15. And if they had meant that from which they departed, they had time to return. 16. But now they desire a better, even a heavenly. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. 17. By faith Abraham, when he was tempted, offered up Isaac, and gave the only begotten, when he had already received the promise, 18. Of whom it was said, In Isaac shall thy seed be called, 19. And thought, God also is able to raise from the dead: therefore he took him again for an example. 20. By faith Isaac blessed of things to come Jacob and Esau. 21. By faith Jacob, when he was dead, blessed both the sons of Joseph, and bowed himself to the head of his sceptre. 22. By faith Joseph spake of the going out of the children of Israel, when he died, and did commandment of his bones. 23. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid from his parents three months: because they saw that he was a goodly child, and feared not the king's commandment. 24. By faith Moses, when he was grown up, would no more be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter. 25. and would rather suffer mischief with the people of God than have the temporal pleasure of sin, 26. And counted the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt: for he looked unto the reward. 27. By faith he left Egypt, and feared not the king's wrath: for he held fast to him whom he saw not, as though he saw him. 28. By faith he kept the passover, and the shedding of blood, that he that choked the firstborn might not choke them. 29. By faith they passed through the Red sea, as through dry land: which also the Egyptians tried, and were drowned. 30. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, when they had compassed themselves about seven days. 31. By faith the harlot Rahab was not lost with the unbelievers, because she received the spies with kindness. 32. And what shall I say more? The time would be too short for me, if I should tell of Gideon, and Barak, and Samson, and Jephthah, and David, and Samuel, and the prophets, 33. Who by faith have overcome kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained the promise, stopped the mouths of lions, 34. have quenched the power of fire, have escaped the edge of the sword, have been strengthened out of weakness, have become strong in battle, have put down the army of the stranger. 35. The women have received again their dead from the resurrection: but the rest are bruised, and have received no redemption, that they might obtain the resurrection which is better. 36. Some have suffered scorn and scourging, and bondage and imprisonment. 37. They were stoned, they were cut in pieces, they were stabbed, they were slain by the sword; they went about in furs and in goats' skins, with want, with affliction, with trouble. 38. (Of whom the world was not worthy) and have walked in misery in the deserts, and in the mountains, and in the clefts and holes of the earth. 39. All these have testified by faith, and have not received the promise, 40. because God has provided something "better for us beforehand, so that they would not be completed without us. (Hebrews) Chapter 12 Exhortation to patience and godliness. 1. Therefore we also, having such a company of witnesses about us, let us put away the sin which always clings to us and makes us sluggish, and let us walk by patience in the fight which is appointed for us, 2. And looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of faith, who, when he might have had joy, endured the cross, and was not ashamed, and sat on the right hand of the throne of God. 3. Remember him that endured such contradiction of sinners against him, that ye faint not in your courage, and be not moved. 4. For ye have not yet withstood to the death the strife against sin. 5. And have already forgotten the comfort that speaketh unto you as unto children: My son, regard not the chastening of the LORD lightly, neither despair when thou art punished of him; 6. For whom the LORD loveth he chasteneth: but he chasteneth every son whom he receiveth. 7. If ye endure chastening, God beareth you children: for where is there a son whom the father chasteneth not? 8. But if ye be without chastening, which they all have had, then are ye bastards, and not children. 9. Even if we have had our fathers in the flesh to chasten us, and have shunned them, ought we not much more to be subject unto our spiritual father, that we may live? 10. And they chastened us a few days according to their pleasure, but he for our profit, that we might obtain his sanctification. 11. But all chastening, when it is, seemeth unto us not joy, but sorrow: but afterward it shall give peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them that are exercised thereby. 12. Wherefore straighten again the lazy hands and the weary knees 13. And do with your feet a certain tread, lest any man stumble like a lame man, but rather be healed. 14. Pursue peace toward all men, and sanctification; without which no man shall see the LORD. 15. And take heed lest any man neglect the grace of God, lest a "bitter root grow up, and cause mischief, and many be defiled by it; 16. Lest any man be a fornicator, or an ungodly man, as Esau, which sold his firstborn for meat. 17. But know that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he is rejected; For he found no room for repentance, though he sought it with tears. 18. For ye are not come unto the mountain that was touched, and burned with fire, nor unto darkness and gloom and tempest. 19. Nor to the sound of the trumpet, nor to the voice of the words, "Which they refused to hear, that the word should not be spoken unto them. 20. For they could not bear what was said. And if any beast touched the mountain, it should be stoned, or shot with a projectile. 21. And so the vision was terrible, that Moses said: I am afraid and tremble), 22. But ye are come unto mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, to the heavenly Jerusalem, and to the multitude of many thousands of angels. 23. And to the congregation of the firstborn who are written in heaven, and to GOD, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the perfect righteous. 24. And to the mediator of the new testament, JESUS, and to the blood of sprinkling, which speaketh better than Abel. 25. Take heed that ye refuse not him which speaketh. For they that refused him when he spake on earth fled not; much less we, if we refuse him that speaketh from heaven, 26. Which voice at that time moved the earth. But now he hath promised, saying, Once more I will not only move the earth, but also heaven. 27. But such "once more" signifieth that the movable shall be changed, as that which is made, that there may remain the immovable. 28. Therefore, because we receive an immovable kingdom, we have grace, by which we ought to serve God, to please him with discipline and fear. 29. For our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews) Chapter 13 Exhortation to Christian walk and pure doctrine. 1. Stand firm in brotherly love! 2. Forget not to be hospitable: for by this some have entertained angels without their knowledge. 3. Remember them that are bound with you, and them which are afflicted, even as ye also which are in the body. 4. Marriage shall be kept honest among all, and the marriage bed undefiled: but fornicators and adulterers God will judge. 5. Let your walk be without covetousness; and be content with that which is. For he hath said, I will not leave thee, nor forsake thee, 6. So that we may say, The LORD is my helper, and will not fear me: what shall any man do unto me? 7. Remember your teachers, which have told you the word of God, whose end look ye on, and follow their faith. 8. Jesus Christ yesterday and today, and the same forever. 9. Be not carried away with divers and strange doctrines: for it is a precious thing that the heart should be established; which is by grace, and not by meat; of which they that handle it profit nothing. 10. We have an altar, whereof they have no power to eat that keep the tabernacle. 11. For every beast whose blood is borne by the high priest into the holy place for sin, his body shall be burned without the camp. 12. Wherefore also Jesus, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. 13. Let us go forth therefore unto him out of the camp, and bear his reproach. 14. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. 15. Through him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to GOD always, that is, the fruit of the lips which confess his name. 16. To do good and to communicate forget not: for such sacrifices please God. 17. Obey your teachers, and follow them: for they watch over your souls, as they that should give an account of them; that they may do it with joy, and not with sighing: for that is not good for you. 18. Pray for us. Our consolation is that we may have a good conscience, and be diligent to do good in all. 19. But I exhort you abundantly to do these things, that I may come unto you again most surely. 20. But God of peace, who hath brought forth from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep by the blood of the everlasting testament, our Lord Jesus, 21. Who hath made you perfect in every good work to do his will, and hath wrought in you that which is acceptable in his sight, through Jesus Christ: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 22. But I exhort you, brethren, take heed to the word of exhortation: for I have written unto you briefly. 23. Know ye that the brother Timotheus is again single, with whom, if he come quickly, I will see you. 24. Greet all your teachers and all the saints. The brothers from Italy greet you. 25. May grace be with you all! Amen. Written from Italy by Timothy. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Letter of James ^ Chapter 1 Of patience in the cross and suffering. 1. James, a servant of GOD, and of the LORD JEsu Christ, to the twelve generations which are to and fro: Rejoice ye first. 2. My brethren, count it joy when ye fall into many temptations, 3. And know that your faith, if it be righteous, worketh patience. 4. But patience shall stand firm unto the end, that ye may be perfect and entire, and not lacking. 5. But if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to every man understandingly, and putteth it on none: and it shall be given him. 6. But pray in faith, doubting not: for he that doubteth is like unto the wave of the sea, which is tossed and waved with the wind. 7. Such a man thinketh not that he shall receive any thing of the LORD. 8. A doubter is fickle in all his ways. 9. But let a brother that is lowly glory in his high estate, 10. And let him that is rich glory in his lowliness: for as a flower of grass he shall perish. 11. The sun riseth with the heat, and the grass withereth, and the flower falleth, and his fair form is spoiled: so shall the rich man wither in his substance. 12. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for after he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which God hath promised to them that love him. 13. Let no man say, when he is tempted, that he is tempted of God: for God is not a tempter of evil; he tempteth no man: 14. But every man is tempted when he is provoked and enticed of his own lusts. 15. After that, when lust hath conceived, it begetteth sin: but sin, when it is finished, beareth death. (Epistle on the fourth Sunday after Easter, Cantate.) 16. Be not deceived, brethren. 17. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, even from the Father of lights, with whom is no variation, nor change of light and darkness. 18. He begat us according to his will by the word of truth, that we should be the firstfruits of his creatures. 19. Wherefore, brethren, let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath; 20. For the wrath of man does not do what is right in the sight of God. 21. Therefore put away all filthiness and all wickedness, and receive with meekness the word which is planted in you, which is able to save your souls]. (Epistle on the fifth Sunday after Easter, Rogate or Vocem Jucunditatis.) 22. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, that ye may deceive yourselves. 23. For if any man be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like a man beholding his bodily face in a mirror; 24. For after he hath looked, he departeth from that hour, and forgetteth how he was fashioned. 25. But he that looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, and is not a forgetful hearer, but a doer, the same shall be blessed in his deed. 26. But if any man among you think that he serveeth God, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his heart, his service is vain. 27. a pure and undefiled service before GOD the Father is this: to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world]. (James) Chapter 2 Of the prestige of the person and hypocrisy. 1. Brethren, think not that faith in Jesus Christ our Lord of glory suffereth any respect of person. 2. For if there come into your assembly a man with a ring of gold, and with a glorious garment; but there come also a poor man with an unclean garment, 3. And ye saw him that bare the glorious robe, and said unto him, Sit thou here in the best, and say unto the poor man: Stand thou there, or sit thou here at my feet, 4. And consider not rightly, but become judges, and make evil difference. 5. Listen, my dear brothers! Does not God have the poor in this world who are rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He has promised to those who love Him? 6. But ye have done dishonour to the poor. Are not the rich the ones who do violence to you and drag you into court? 7. Do they not blaspheme the good name whereof ye are called? 8. If ye perfect the royal law according to the scripture: Love thy neighbour as thyself, and ye shall do well. 9. But if ye look on the person, ye sin, and are punished of the law as transgressors. 10. For if any man keep the whole law, and sin in one, he is whole. 11. For he that said: Thou shalt not commit adultery, he also said, Thou shalt not kill. If therefore thou commit not adultery, but kill, thou art a transgressor of the law. 12. So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty. 13. And there shall be an unmerciful judgment upon him that hath not shown mercy: and mercy shall boast itself against judgment. 14. What profit is it, brethren, if a man say that he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith also save him? 15. But if a brother or sister would be naked and in want of daily food, 16. And if any of you should say unto them: God shall counsel you, and warm you, and satisfy you: but if ye give them not the necessities of the body, what shall it profit them? 17. So also faith, if it have not works, is dead in itself. 18. But if any man say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith with thy works, and I will shew thee my faith with my works. 19. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? 21. Was not Abraham our father justified by works, in that he sacrificed his son Isaac on the altar? 22. Then seest thou that faith was instrumental in his works, and by works faith was made perfect. 23. And the scripture is fulfilled, which saith, Abraham believed God, and was counted unto him for righteousness, and was called a friend of God. 24. Behold therefore, that a man is justified by works, and not by faith alone. 25. Likewise Rahab the harlot, was she not justified by works, when she received the messengers, and sent them out another way? 26. For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead. (James) Chapter 3 On the use and abuse of the tongue. 1. Brethren, forbear not every man to be a teacher: and know ye, that the more judgment we receive. 2. For we all lack in many ways. But he that lacketh not in any word is a perfect man, and is able to keep the whole body in check. 3. Behold, we keep the horses in bridles, that they may obey us; and we direct the whole body. 4. Behold, the ships, though they be great, and though they be driven by strong winds, yet are they steered with a small rudder whithersoever he that governeth them goeth. 5. So also the tongue is a small member, and doeth great things. Behold, a little fire, what a forest it kindles! 6. And the tongue also is a fire, a world of iniquity. So the tongue is among our members, and defileth the whole body, and kindleth upon all our conversation, when it is inflamed with hell. 7. For all the nature of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of the wonders of the sea, are tamed, and are made tame by human nature; 8. But the tongue no man can tame, the restless evil full of deadly poison. 9. By them we praise God the Father, and by them we curse man, made in the image of God. 10. Out of one mouth proceedeth praise and cursing. It shall not be so, brethren. 11. quillet also a fountain from a hole sweet and bitter? 12. Can a fig tree also, brethren, bear oil, or a vine figs? So also a well cannot give salty and sweet water. 13. Who is wise and prudent among you? Let him show his works in meekness and wisdom with his good conduct. 14. But if ye have bitter envy and strife in your heart, boast not, neither lie against the truth. 15. For this is not the wisdom that cometh down from above, but earthly, human, and devilish. 16. For where there is envy and strife, there is disorder and vile evil. 17. But wisdom from above is at first chaste, then peaceable, gentle, may it be said, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, without hypocrisy. 18. But the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace to them that keep the peace. (James) Chapter 4 Warning against sins. 1. Whence cometh strife and war among you? Cometh it not from your lusts, which strive in your members? 2. Ye are covetous, and gain not thereby: ye hate, and envy, and gain not thereby: ye contend, and war. Ye have not, because ye ask not. 3. Ye ask, and receive not; because ye ask evil, that is, to consume it with your lusts. 4. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is the enmity of God? He who wants to be the friend of the world will be the enemy of God. 5. Or do ye suppose that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in you lusteth against hatred? 6. And giveth abundant grace: for the scripture saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 7. Therefore be subject to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8. Draw near to God, and He draws near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and make your hearts chaste, you fickle ones! 9. Be ye wretched, and mourn, and weep. Let your laughter turn to weeping, and your joy to sadness. 10. Humble yourselves before God, and He will exalt you. 11. Speak not evil one to another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law. But if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12. There is one lawgiver who can save and condemn. Who are you to judge another? 13. Now therefore, ye that say, To day or tomorrow we will go into that city, or that city, and lie there a year, and work, and win, 14. Ye know not what tomorrow shall be. For what is your life? It is a vapour that lasteth for a little season, and after that it vanisheth away. 15. For which ye ought to say: If the LORD will, and we live, we will do this or that. 16. But now ye glory in your pride. All such glory is evil. 17. For he that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. (James) Chapter 5 Of the vanity of riches, patient suffering and strong prayer. 1. Now therefore, ye rich, weep and wail for your miseries which shall come upon you. 2. Your riches are rotten; your garments have become moth-eaten. 3. Your gold and your silver are corroded, and their rust shall be a testimony unto you, and shall devour your flesh as it were fire. Ye have laid up for yourselves treasures in the last days. 4. Behold, the labourers' hire, which have reaped your land, and are broken off from you, cry: and the cry of the reapers is come into the ears of the LORD of hosts. 5. Ye have lived well on the earth, and have had your lusts, and have fed your hearts as on a day of slaughter. 6. Ye have condemned and slain the righteous, and he hath not withstood you. 7. Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the LORD. Behold, a husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and is patient for it, until he receive the morning rain and the evening rain. 8. Be ye also patient, and strengthen your hearts: for the future of the LORD is at hand. 9. Sigh not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned. Behold, the judge is at the door! 10. Take ye, my brethren, for an example of suffering and patience, the prophets which have spoken unto you in the name of the LORD. 11. Behold, blessed are they that endure. The patience of Job ye have heard, and the end of the LORD ye have seen: for the LORD is merciful and gracious. 12. But above all, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, nor by earth, nor by any other oath. But let your word be, Yea, which is yea; and, Nay, which is nay: Nay, which is nay; lest ye fall into hypocrisy. 13. If any man suffer among you, let him pray: if any man be of good cheer, let him sing psalms. 14. If any man be sick, let him call for the elders of the congregation, and let them pray over him, anointing them with oil in the name of the LORD. 15. And the prayer of faith shall help the sick, and the LORD shall raise him up: and if he have sinned, they shall be forgiven him. 16. Confess ye your sins one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The righteous man's prayer is powerful if it is earnest. 17. Elijah was a man like unto us, and he prayed a prayer that it should not rain; and it rained not on the earth three years and six months. 18. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. 19. Brethren, if any man among you should err from the truth, and any man should convert him, 20. Who shall know that he that converteth a sinner from the error of his way hath saved a soul from death, and shall cover the multitude of sins. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first letter of Peter (1 Peter) ^ Chapter 1 Of God's spiritual benefits and Christians' duties. 1. Peter, an apostle of JEsu Christ: To the elect strangers to and fro in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2. According to the providence of GOD the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, to obedience and sprinkling of the blood of JEsu Christ. May God give you much grace and peace! (Epistle on the day of Simon and Judas.) 3. praise be to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 4. to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and unfading, which shall be kept in heaven 5. You who by the power of God are kept through faith unto salvation, which is prepared to be revealed in the last time, 6. In which ye shall rejoice, who now for a little season (where it shall be) are sorrowful in divers temptations, 7. That your faith may be found righteous, and much more precious than the gold that perisheth, which is tried by fire, to the praise, and honour, and glory, when Jesus Christ shall be revealed, 8. Whom ye have not seen, but love, and now believe on him, though ye see him not: and ye shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, 9. And bring away the end of your faith, even the blessedness of souls]. 10. For what blessedness the prophets sought and searched, who pointed unto you the grace that was to come, 11. And have searched to what and what time the Spirit of Christ which was in them pointed, testifying beforehand of the sufferings which are in Christ, and of the glory which is after, 12. To whom it was revealed. For they presented it not unto themselves, but unto us: which is now made known unto you by them which preached the gospel unto you, sent down from heaven by the Holy Ghost; which also the angels longed to behold. 13. Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and set your hope fully on the grace which is offered you by the revelation of JESUS CHRIST, 14. As obedient children; and be not as ye were before, living in ignorance after lusts, 15. But according to him that hath called you, and hath sanctified you, be ye also holy in all your doings. 16. For it is written: Ye shall be holy: for I am holy. 17. And as ye call upon him that is the Father, who judgeth without respect of persons according to every man's work, so conduct yourselves with fear all the days of your sojourning; 18. And know that ye are not redeemed with corruptible silver or gold from your vain walk after the manner of your fathers, 19. but with the precious blood of Christ, as of an innocent and unblemished lamb, 20. Who indeed was provided before the foundation of the world, but is manifested in the last times for your sakes, 21. Who through him believe in God, who raised him from the dead, and gave him glory, that ye might have faith and hope in God. 22. And chasten your souls in the obedience of the truth by the Spirit unto brotherly love unstained, and love one another fervently out of a pure heart, 23. As they that are born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, even of the living word of God, which abideth for ever. 24. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of men as the flower of grass. The grass is withered, and the flower is fallen; 25. But the word of the LORD endureth for ever. This is the word which is preached among you. (1 Peter) Chapter 2 Of the duty of the born-again, as well as of subjects and servants. 1. Put away therefore all malice, and all deceit, and hypocrisy, and envy, and all speaking evil; 2. And be greedy for the sensible milk, as the little children that are now born, that ye may increase by the same, 3. If ye have tasted otherwise, that the Lord is good, 4. To whom ye are come as unto the living stone, which is rejected of men, but with God is chosen and precious. 5. And ye also, as the living stones, build yourselves up into a spiritual house, and into a holy priesthood, to offer sacrifices acceptable unto God through JESUS Christ. 6. Therefore it is written, Behold, I lay in Zion a choice and precious corner stone; and whosoever believeth in him shall not be put to shame. 7. To you therefore which believe it is precious; but to them which believe not it is the stone which the builders rejected, and became the corner stone, 8. A stone of stumbling and a rock of offence, which stumble at the word, and believe not in it, whereon they are set. 9. But ye are the chosen generation, the royal priesthood, the holy nation, the people of the possession, that ye should shew forth the virtues of him that hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light, 10. Who formerly were not a people, but are now the people of God; and formerly were not in grace, but are now in grace. (Epistle on the third Sunday after Easter, Jubilate.) 11. Brethren, I beseech you, as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul, 12. And do good among the heathen, that they which speak evil of you, as of evildoers, may see your good works, and glorify God, when it shall come to pass. 13. Be subject unto all manner of men for the LORD'S sake, even to the king, as to the ruler, 14. or the captains, as the messengers from him for vengeance on the evildoers, and for 'praise to the pious. 15. For this is the will of God, that ye should stop up the ignorance of foolish men with well-doing, 16. as the free, and not as having liberty to the cover of wickedness, but as the servants of GOD. 17. Do honour to everyone. Love your brothers! Fear God! Honor the king! 18. Ye servants, be subject unto the lords with all fear, not only to the kind and gentle, but also to the whimsical. 19. For this is grace, if a man for conscience' sake endure evil unto God, and suffer iniquity. 20. For what glory is this, if ye suffer strokes for iniquity? But if you suffer and endure for the sake of good, that is grace with God. (Epistle on the Second Sunday after Easter, Misericordias Domini.) 21. For to this end were ye called, because Christ also suffered for us, and left us an example, that ye should follow in his footsteps; 22. Who hath committed no sin, neither is any deceit found in his mouth; 23. Who reproved not when he was reproached, neither grieved when he suffered; but reproved him that judgeth aright; 24. Who himself offered up our sins in his body upon the wood, that we, having died to sin, might live unto righteousness: by whose wounds ye were healed. 25. For ye were as sheep going astray: but now are ye converted unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. ] (1 Peter) Chapter 3 Duties of the spouses. Patience and constancy in suffering. Baptismal covenant. 1. Likewise also the wives shall be subject unto their husbands, that they also which believe not the word may be won by the conversation of wives without the word, 2. When they behold your chaste walk in fear; 3. What ornament shall not be by heart with braiding of hair, and cloaking of gold, or putting on of garments? 4. but the hidden man of the heart unfeigned with a gentle and quiet spirit; this is delicious in the sight of God. 5. For so did the holy women of old adorn themselves, who put their hope in God, and were subject to their husbands, 6. As Sarah obeyed Abraham, and called him lord, whose daughters ye became, if ye did well, and were not timid. 7. the same, ye men, dwell with them with reason, and give honor to the female as the weakest instrument, as also joint heirs of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered. (Epistle on the fifth Sunday after Trinity.) 8. Finally, be ye all like-minded, compassionate, brotherly, merciful, kind. 9. Not evil with evil, or evil with evil: but bless ye, and know that ye are called to this, that ye may inherit the blessing. 10. He that would live and see good days, let his tongue hold his peace, that it speak no evil; and his lips, that they deceive not; 11. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 12. For the eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears upon their prayer: but the face of the LORD is upon them that do evil. 13. And who is he that may hurt you, if ye do good? 14. Though ye suffer for righteousness' sake, yet are ye blessed. But fear not their defiance, and be not dismayed! 15. But sanctify the Lord GOD in your hearts.] But be ye always ready to answer to every man, which requireth the hope that is in you, 16. With meekness and fear: and have a good conscience, that they which speak evil of you, as of evildoers, may be put to shame, because they have reproached your good walk in Christ. 17. For it is better, if it be the will of God, that ye should suffer for good than for evil, 18. For Christ also hath once suffered for our sins, the just for the unjust, that he might offer us to God; being put to death according to the flesh, but made alive according to the Spirit. 19. And in the same he went and preached unto the spirits that were in prison, 20. Who believed not, because God waited and was patient in the days of Noah, when they prepared the ark, wherein were kept a few, that is, eight souls, by the water, 21. Which therefore also makes us blessed in baptism, which is signified by that, not the putting away of filthiness from the flesh, but the covenant of a good conscience with GOD through the resurrection of JESUS CHRIST, 22. Who is gone up to the right hand of God into heaven, and the angels and the mighty men and the powers are subject unto him. (1 Peter) Chapter 4 Of the use of the cross, and patience therein, and other virtues. 1. Forasmuch then as Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind: for he that suffereth in the flesh ceaseth from sins, 2. That he henceforth, which is yet in the flesh, should not live unto the lusts of men, but unto the will of God. 3. For it is enough that we have spent the past time of life according to the will of the Gentiles, walking in fornication, lusts, drunkenness, gluttony, drunkenness, and abominable idolatries. 4. That they are displeased, lest ye run with them into the same desolate, disorderly manner, and blaspheme; 5. Which shall give account unto him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. 6. For to this end is the gospel preached also to the dead, that they might be judged according to the flesh, but live in the Spirit of God. 7. But the end of all things is at hand. (Epistle on the Sunday after the Ascension of Christ, Exaudi.) 8. Be ye therefore temperate and sober in prayer. Above all, love one another fervently, for love covers the multitude of sins. 9. be hospitable to one another without marbles! 10. And serve one another, every one with the gift which he hath received, as the good stewards of the many mercies of God. 11. If any man speak, to speak it as the word of God; if any man have an office, to do it as of the ability which God hath set forth; that in all things God may be glorified through JESUS CHRIST, to whom be glory and power for ever and ever. Amen] (Epistle on the Sunday after New Year.) 12. Beloved, let not the heat that cometh upon you (which cometh upon you, that ye are tempted) be strange unto you, as if some strange thing happened unto you, 13. But rejoice that ye suffer with Christ, that ye may have joy and gladness at the revelation of his glory. 14. Blessed are ye when ye are reviled above the name of Christ: for the Spirit, which is the Spirit of glory and of God, resteth upon you. With them he is blasphemed, but with you he is glorified. 15. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evildoer, or as one that entereth into a strange office. 16. But if he suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him honour God in such a case. 17. For the time is come for judgment to begin against the house of God. But if it be so with us first, what end shall it be with them that believe not the gospel of God? 18. And if the righteous be hardly preserved, where will the wicked and the sinner appear? 19. Therefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commend their souls unto him, as unto the faithful Creator in good works]. (1 Peter) Chapter 5 Of the office of the elders, the duty of the youth, and of all Christians in general. 1. The elders which are among you I exhort, being fellow elders, and witnesses of the sufferings which are in Christ, and partakers of the glory which shall be revealed: 2. Feed ye the flock of Christ, as ye are commanded, and watch carefully, not forcibly, but willingly; not for shameful gain, but of the heart, 3. Not as ruling over the people, but become examples to the flock; 4. So when the Arch Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of honors. 5. Likewise, ye young men, be subject unto the elders. All of you be subject to one another, and hold fast to humility; for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. (Epistle on the third Sunday after Trinity.) 6. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in his time. 7. Cast all your care upon him: for he careth for you. 8. Be ye sober, and watch: for your adversary the devil walketh about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9. Resist them firmly in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are upon your brethren which are in the world. 10. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory in Christ JESUS, the same shall make you full, and strengthen, and establish you, who suffer a little while. 11. To Him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen] 12. By your faithful brother Silvanus, as I eight, I have written unto you a little, to exhort and testify that this is the right grace of God, wherein ye stand. 13. Greetings unto you that are chosen together with you to Babylon, and unto my son Mark. 14. Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace be to all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second letter of Peter (2 Peter) ^ Chapter 1 The fruitfulness of faith in good works. Praise of the Holy Scriptures. 1. Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of JESUS CHRIST: To them that have just obtained with us the same dear faith in the righteousness which our GOD giveth, and the Saviour JESUS CHRIST. 2. May God give you much grace and peace through the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ our Lord. 3. After all his divine power (which is for life and godliness) is given unto us, through the knowledge of him that hath called us by his glory and virtue, 4. By which are given unto us the most precious and exceeding great promises, that by these ye might be made partakers of the divine nature, if ye would flee the corruptible pleasures of the world: 5. then give all your diligence to it, and present virtue in your faith, and modesty in virtue. 6. And in modesty temperance, and in temperance patience, and in patience godliness. 7. And in godliness brotherly love, and in brotherly love common love. 8. For if these things abound among you, they shall not make you slothful nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord JESUS CHRIST. 9. But he that hath not these things is blind, and gropeth with his hand, and forgetteth the purification of his former sins. 10. Wherefore, brethren, be the more diligent to establish your calling and election. For where ye do these things, ye shall not stumble. 11. And so shall be abundantly presented unto you the entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour JEsu Christ. 12. Therefore will I not cease always to remind you of these things, though ye know them, and be strengthened in the present truth. 13. For I count it expedient, while I am in this tabernacle, to awake and remind you. 14. For I know that I must soon cast off my tabernacle, as our Lord Jesus Christ hath also declared unto me. 15. But I will be diligent, that after I am departed ye may keep these things in remembrance. (Epistle on the sixth Sunday after Epiphany.) 16. For we have not followed wise fables, when we made known unto you the power and the coming of our Lord JESUS Christ: but we have seen his glory for ourselves, 17. When he received glory and honour from God the Father by a voice which came to him of great glory: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18. And this voice have we heard brought down from heaven, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19. We have a sure word of prophecy; and ye do well to hearken unto it, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the morning star arise in your hearts. 20. And this ye ought to know for the first, that no prophecy in the scripture is of your own interpretation; 21. For no prophecy has ever been produced by human will; but the holy men of God have spoken, impelled by the Holy Spirit]. (2 Peter) Chapter 2 Of false teachers, their punishment, and seductive change. 1. And there were also false prophets among the people, as there shall be false teachers among you, which shall bring in corrupt sects, and shall deny the Lord that bought them, and shall bring upon themselves swift condemnation. 2. And many shall follow their destruction: by whom shall the way of truth be blasphemed. 3. And by covetousness with fancied words shall they deal with you: of whom the judgment of long time is not tardy, and their condemnation doth not sleep. 4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them out into hell with chains of darkness, and delivered them up to be judged; 5. And spared not the former world, but preserved Noah the preacher of righteousness, and delivered and brought the flood upon the world of the wicked; 6. And hath reduced the cities of Sodom and Gornorrah to ashes, and turned them back, and condemned them, to set an example unto the wicked that should come after; 7. And hath redeemed righteous Lot, to whom the wicked men did all the harm with their lewdness; 8. For while he was righteous, and dwelt among them, to see and to hear, they tormented the righteous soul from day to day with their unrighteous works. 9. The LORD knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, but to keep the unrighteous unto the day of judgment, to chastise them; 10. But most of all they that walk after the flesh in unclean lusts, and despise the kingdom, being foolish, stubborn, not trembling to blaspheme the majesties, 11. If the angels, which have greater strength and might, endure not the blasphemous judgment against them from the LORD. 12. But they are like the unreasoning beasts, which are born by nature to be caught and slain, blaspheming, knowing nothing of it, and shall perish in their. corruptible nature 13. And bring away the reward of iniquity. They take pleasure in temporal pleasures; they are a disgrace and a vice; they eat of your alms, they eat of yours, 14. Have eyes full of adultery, do not let sin hinder them, lure to themselves the frivolous souls, have a heart cunning with avarice, accursed people, 15. Forsaking the right way, and going astray, and following in the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, to whom beloved is the reward of iniquity, 16. And he had a punishment of his transgression, because the dumb beast of burden spake with the voice of man, and rebuked the prophet's folly. 17. These are fountains without water, and clouds compassed about with the whirlwind: for whom to keep is darkness for ever. 18. For they speak proud words, when there is nothing behind, and provoke by fornication to carnal lusts them that were rightly escaped, and now walk in error, 19. Promising them liberty, if they themselves be servants of destruction. For of whom a man is overcome, of him is he become the servant. 20. For if they have escaped the filth of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour JESUS CHRIST, and are again plunged into it, and overcome, the latter things are worse with them than the former. 21. For it were better for them that they had not known the way of righteousness, than that they had known it, and turned away from the holy commandment which was given them. 22. There hath befallen them the true saying, The dog eateth again, what he has fed, and: The sow rolls again in the excrement after the glut. (2 Peter) Chapter 3 Of the last times, Christ's future, and worthy readiness for it. 1. This is the other epistle which I write unto you, beloved, in which I awake and remind you of your lukewarm mind, 2. That ye may remember the words which were spoken unto you of old by the holy prophets, and our commandment, which are the apostles of the Lord and Saviour. (Epistle on the twenty-sixth Sunday after Trintatis.) 3. And know this first, that in the last days there shall come scoffers, walking after their own lusts. 4. Saying, Where is the promise of his future? For after the fathers are passed away, all things remain as they were from the beginning of the creature. 5. But willingly they will not know that the heavens also were of old, and that the earth was of water, and that it consisted in water by the word of God. 6. Nevertheless at that time the world was destroyed by them with the flood. - · 7. So also the heavens now and the earth are spared by his word, to be kept for fire in the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. 8. But be it known unto you, beloved, that in the sight of the LORD one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9. The LORD delayeth not the promise, as some count a delay: but hath patience with us, not willing that any should perish, but that every man should repent. 10. And the day of the LORD shall come as a thief of the night, in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, and the earth shall melt with fervent heat. and the works that are inside will burn. 11. If then all these things shall pass away, how then shall ye be skillful in holy walk and godliness? 12. That ye wait and make haste for the future of the day of the LORD, in the which the heavens shall be dissolved with fire, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat. 13. But we wait for new heavens and a new earth, according to his promise, in which righteousness dwelleth. 14. Wherefore, beloved, as ye ought to wait for this, be diligent that ye may be found undefiled before him, and blameless in peace]. 15. And the patience of our Lord respect unto your salvation: as also our dear brother Paul wrote unto you according to the wisdom that was given unto him. 16. As he also saith in all his epistles, wherein are some things hard to be understood, which confound the unlearned and the reckless, as also the other scriptures unto their own damnation. 17. But ye, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, take heed lest ye be deceived with them through the error of wicked men, and escape out of your own stronghold. 18. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and for evermore. Amen. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The first letter of John (1 John) ^ Chapter 1 Of Christ's person, His revealed word, and true repentance. (Epistle on the third day of Christmas.) 1. Which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have beheld, and our hands have touched, of the word of life. 2. (and the life appeared, and we have seen, and testify, and declare unto you the life that is eternal, which was with the Father, and appeared unto us); 3. What we have seen and heard we declare unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us; and that our fellowship may be with the Father, and with the Son, JESUS CHRIST. 4. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 5. And this is the proclamation which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that GOD is a light, and in him is no darkness. 6. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, so we lie and do not do the truth. 7. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another: and the blood of JEsu Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 8. If we say, we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9. But if we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sin, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us:] (1 John) Chapter 2 Of Christianity's reason, characteristics, content, enemies, and preservation. 1. Little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, who is righteous. 2. And the same is the propitiation for our sin, and not for our sin only, but also for those of the whole world. 3. And by this we know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar; and in such there is no truth. 5. But he that keepeth his word, in him truly is the love of God made perfect. By this we know that we are in him. 6. He that saith he abideth in him shall walk even as he walked. 7. Brethren, I write not unto you a new commandment, but the old commandment, which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. 8. Again, a new commandment write I unto you, which is true of him, and of you: for the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. 9. He that saith he is in the light, and hate his brother, who is still in eclipse. 10. He that loveth his brother abideth in light, and is no offence to him. 11. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth: for darkness hath blinded his eyes. 12. Little children, I write unto you, that sins may be forgiven you through his name. 13. I write unto you fathers: for ye know him that is from the beginning. I write unto you young men; for ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you children, because ye know the Father. 14. I have written unto you fathers, that ye might know him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you young men, that ye should be strong, and that the word of God should abide with you, and that ye should overcome the wicked. 15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, , the love of the Father is not in him. 16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17. And the world perisheth with the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 18. Children, it is the last hour: and as ye have heard that the antichrist is come, and now are become many antichrists; therefore we know that it is the last hour. 19. They came out from us, but they were not of us. For if they had been of us, they would have remained with us: but baptize them, that they be not all of us. 20. And ye have the anointing of him that is holy; and know all things. 21. I wrote not unto you, as though ye knew not the truth; but ye know it, and know that no lie cometh of the truth. 22. Who is a liar, except he deny that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, which denieth the Father and the Son. 23. He that denieth the Son hath not the Father. 24. That therefore which ye have heard from the beginning abide with you. If that which ye have heard from the beginning abide with you, ye shall abide with the Son and with the Father. 25. And this is the promise which he hath promised us: eternal life. 26. These things have I written unto you of them that deceive you. 27. And the anointing which ye have received of him abideth with you, and suffer not any man to teach you: but as the anointing teacheth you all things, it is true, and is no lie: and as it hath taught you, abide in the same. 28. And now, little children, abide with him, that, when he shall be revealed, we may have joy, and not to be ashamed before him in his coming. 29. If ye know that he is righteous, know ye also that he that doeth righteousness is born of him. (1 John) Chapter 3 Of true Christians glory, attributes, cross and consolation. 1. Behold, what manner of love the Father hath shewed unto us, that we should be called the children of God. Therefore the world knoweth you not, because it knoweth him not. 2. Beloved, we are now God's children, and what we shall be has not yet appeared. But we know, when it shall appear, that we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3. And every one that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 4. Whosoever committeth sin committeth iniquity: and sin is iniquity. 5. And ye know that he hath appeared to take away our sins; and there is no sin in him. 6. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not; He that sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 7. Little children, let no man deceive you. He that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8. He that committeth sin is of the devil: for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God appeared, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9. Whosoever is born of GOD doth not sin: for his seed abideth with him, and cannot sin: for he is born of GOD. 10. By this it is evident which are the children of God, and which are the children of the devil. He who does not do right is not of God, and he who does not love his brother. 11. For this is the message which ye have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12. Not as Cain, which was of the wicked, and slew his brother. And why slew he him? Because his works were evil, and his brother's righteous. (Epistle on the Second Sunday after Trinity) 13. Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14. We know that we are passed from death unto life: for we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 15. He that hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that a murderer hath not eternal life abiding with him. 16. By this we have known love, that he laid down his life for us: and we ought also to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17. But if a man have goods of this world, and see his brother brought low, and shut up his heart against him, how abideth the love of God in him? 18. My little children, let us not love in word, nor in tongue, but in deed and in truth]. 19. By this we know that we are of the truth, and can still our hearts before him, 20. That if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 21. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, we have joy unto God; 22. And whatsoever we ask, we will take of him: for we keep his commandments, and do that which is pleasing in his sight. 23. And this is his commandment, that we believe on the name of his Son JESUS Christ, and love one another, as he hath commanded us. 24. And he that keepeth his commandments abideth in him, and he in him. And by this we know that he abideth in us: in the spirit he has given us. (1 John) Chapter 4 Of testing false teachers and exercising love toward God and neighbor. 1. Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they be of God: for many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2. By this ye shall know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God; 3. And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of antichrist, of which ye have heard that it shall come, and is now already in the world. 4. Little children, ye are of God, and have overcome them: for he that is in you is greater than he that is in the world. 5. They are of the world: therefore they speak of the world, and the world heareth them. 6. We are of God, and he that knoweth God heareth us: he that is not of God heareth us not. By this we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. 7. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God: and he that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8. He that loveth not knoweth not God: for God is love: 9. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we should live through him. 10. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11. Beloved, if God so loved us, let us also love one another. No one has ever seen God. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is fully in us. 13. By this we know that we abide in him, and he in us, that he hath given us of his Spirit. 14. And we have seen and do witness that the Father hath sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. 15. Whosoever therefore shall confess that JESUS is the Son of GOD, in him abideth GOD, and he in GOD. 16. And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. (Epistle on the first Sunday after Trinity.) God is love; and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. 17. Wherefore love is perfect with us, that we may have joy in the day of judgment: for as he is, so are we in this world. 18. Fear is not in love: but perfect love casteth out fear: for fear hath torment. But he that feareth is not perfect in love. 19. Let us love him: for he hath loved us first. 20. If any man say, I love God, and hate his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he beholdeth, how can he love God whom he beholdeth not? 21. And this commandment have we from him, that he that loveth God love his brother also]. (1 John) Chapter 5 Of the right faith, the power thereof, the fruit thereof, and the quality thereof. 1. Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. And whosoever loveth him that begat him loveth him also that is born of him. 2. By this we know that we love God's children when we love God and keep His commandments. 3. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. (Epistle on the first Sunday after Easter, Quasimodogeniti.) 4. For whatsoever is born of GOD overcometh the world: and our faith is the victory that overcometh the world. 5. But who is he that overcometh the world, except he believe that JESUS is the Son of GOD? 6. This is he that cometh with water and blood, Jesus Christ; not with water only, but with water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness that the Spirit is truth. 7. For there are three that beget in heaven; the Father, and the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 8. And there are three that beget in the earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and the three are joined together. 9. If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater: for the testimony of God is that which he hath begotten of his Son. 10. He that believeth on the Son of God hath such a testimony with him. He that believeth not God maketh him a liar: for he believeth not the testimony which God beareth of his Son]. 11. And this is the testimony, that God hath given us eternal life; and such life is in his Son. 12. He who has the Son of God has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 14. And this is the joy that we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us. 15. And if we know that he heareth us what we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we asked of him. 16. If any man see his brother sin, a sin not unto death, let him ask; and he shall give life unto them that sin not unto death. It is a sin unto death: for this I say not, that any man pray. 17. All unrighteousness is sin: and some sin is not unto death. 18. We know that he that is born of God sinneth not: but he that is born of God keepeth himself, and the wicked shall not touch him. 19. We know that we are of GOD; and the whole world is in trouble. 20. But we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us a purpose, that we should know him that is true, and be in him that is true, even in his Son JESUS CHRIST. He is the true God and the eternal life. 21. Little children, beware of idols! Amen. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The second letter of John (2 John) ^ Mirror of a godly woman. 1. The elder: to the chosen woman and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all who have known the truth, 2. For the truth's sake, which abideth in us, and shall be with us for ever. 3. Grace, mercy, peace, from God the Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and in love, be with you. 4. I am very glad that I have found among thy children them that walk in the truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. 5. And now I beseech thee, woman (not as a new commandment I write unto thee, but which we have had from the beginning), that we love one another. 6. And this is love, that we walk after his commandment. This is the commandment, as ye have heard from the beginning, that ye should walk therein. 7. For many deceivers are come into the world, which confess not Jesus Christ, that he is come in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8. Take heed that we lose not that which we have earned, but that we receive a full reward. 9. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath no God: but he that abideth in the doctrine of Christ hath both the Father and the Son. 10. If any man come to you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not at home, neither salute him. 11. For he that saluteth him maketh himself partaker of his evil works. 12. I had much to write unto you, but I would not write with letters and ink, but I hope to come and speak unto you by word of mouth, that our joy may be full. 13. The children of your sister, the chosen one, greet you. Amen. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The third letter of John (3 John) ^ In Praise of Hospitality. 1. The elder: Gaius the beloved, whom I love in truth. 2. My beloved, I desire in all things that thou mayest prosper, and be in health, as thy soul prospereth. 3. And I am glad, because the brethren came and testified of thy truth, how that thou walkest in the truth. 4. I have no greater joy than to hear my children walk in the truth. 5. My beloved, you do faithfully what you do to the brothers and guests, 6. Which have testified of thy love before the congregation: and thou hast done well to present them worthy in the sight of God. 7. For his name's sake they went forth, and took nothing of the Gentiles. 8. Let us therefore receive such things, that we may be the helpers of the truth. 9. I have written unto the church: but Diotrephes, who would be exalted among them, receiveth us not. 10. Therefore when I come, I will remind him of his works which he doeth, and speaketh evil words against us, and is not satisfied with them. He himself receiveth not the brethren, and rejecteth them that would do it, and castteth them out of the church. 11. My beloved, do not follow after evil, but after good! He who does good is of God; he who does evil does not see God. 12. Demetrius hath testimony of every man, and of the truth itself: and we also testify, and ye know that our testimony is true. 13. I had much to write; but I didn't want to write to you in pen and ink. 14. But I hope to see you soon, so let us talk orally. Peace be with you! Friends greet you. Greet the friends by name. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Letter of Judas (Jude) ^ Exhortation to persevere in pure doctrine and life against deceivers. 1. Judas, a servant of JESUS Christ, but a brother to James: to them that are called, who are sanctified in GOD the Father, and kept in JESUS Christ. 2. may God grant you much mercy and peace and love! 3. Beloved, having intended to write unto you concerning the salvation of us all, I thought it necessary to exhort you with scriptures, that ye should contend for the faith which was once given unto the saints. 4. For there are some men crept in beside them, of whom it is written aforetime, to such a punishment; who are ungodly, and take the grace of our God in vain, and deny God, and our Lord JESUS CHRIST, the only Ruler. 5. But I will remind you, that ye know this at once, that the LORD, when he delivered the people out of Egypt, at the second time destroyed they which believed not. 6. Angels also, which kept not their principality, but left their habitation, he hath kept unto the judgment of the great day with everlasting bands of darkness. 7. As Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities round about them, which went out after the same manner as these, and went after another flesh, are set for an ensample, and suffer everlasting punishment. 8. Of the same kind are these dreamers, who defile the flesh, but despise the rulers, and blaspheme the majesties. 9. But the archangel, when he had quarreled with the devil, and talked with him concerning the body of Moses, could not pronounce the sentence of blasphemy, but said, The LORD chastise thee. 10. But these blaspheme, because they know not any thing: but what they know naturally, therein they corrupt, as the unreasoning beasts. 11. Woe unto them! for they go in the way of Cain, and fall into the error of Balaam for the sake of pleasure, and perish in the rebellion of Korah. 12. These unfaithful ones pluck of your alms without timidity, feeding themselves; they are clouds without water, driven about by the wind, bare, barren trees, twice dead and rooted up, 13. wild waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame, erroneous stars, to whom is kept the darkness of darkness for ever. 14. And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, foretold of these, saying, Behold, the LORD cometh with many thousands of saints, 15. To execute judgment upon all, and to punish all their ungodly for all the works of their ungodly doings, that they have been ungodly, and for all the hard things which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. 16. These murmur and complain continually, they that walk after their lusts; and their mouth speaketh proud words, and esteemeth the person for gain. 17. But ye, beloved, remember the words which were spoken aforetime by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ, 18. Saying unto you, That in the latter days there shall be scoffers, walking after their own lusts of ungodliness. 19. These are they that make the multitude, carnal, which have no spirit. 20. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves upon your most holy faith through the Holy Ghost, pray 21. And keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto life eternal. 22. And keep this difference, that ye may have mercy on some, 23. But save some with fear, and bring them out of the fire; and hate the stained garment of the flesh. 24. But to him that is able to keep you without blemish, and to set you before the face of his glory blameless with joy; 25. To God, who alone is wise, our Savior, be glory and majesty and power and might, now and forever. Amen. Text of the unrevised Luther Bible 1545: DeepL English Translation [Processed by BackToLuther. German text published here.] The Revelation of John ^ Chapter 1 Mystery of the seven candlesticks and stars. 1. This is the revelation of JESUS Christ, which GOD gave him to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and hath interpreted it, and sent it by his angel unto his servant John, 2. Who hath testified of the word of GOD, and of the testimony of JESUS CHRIST, which he hath seen. 3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. 4. John unto the seven churches which are in Asia, Grace be unto you, and peace, from him that is, and that was, and that is to come, and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne, 5. And of JESUS Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the firstborn from the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth, who loved us, and washed us from sins in his blood. 6. And hath made us kings and priests before God and his Father: unto him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 7. Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they that pricked him; and all kindreds of the earth shall wail. Yea, Amen. 8. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the LORD that is, and that was, and that is to come, the Almighty. 9. I John, who also am your brother and fellow-sufferer in the tribulation, and in the kingdom, and in the patience of JEsu Christ, was in the isle which is called Patmos, for the word of GOD, and for the testimony of JEsu Christ. 10. I was in the spirit in the day of the LORD, and heard behind me a great voice as of a trumpet, 11. Which said: I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last: and what thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the churches of Asia, to Ephesus, and to Smyrna, and to Pergamos, and to Thyatira, and to Sardis, and to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea. 12. And I turned to see the voice that talked with me. And when I turned, I saw seven candlesticks of gold. 13. And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the son of man, clothed in a vesture, and girded about the breast with a golden girdle. 14. And his head and his hair were white as white wool, as the snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire. 15. And his feet were as brass burning in a furnace, and his voice as the sound of great waters; 16. And he had seven stars in his right hand, and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and his face shone as the bright sun. 17. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as one dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, and said unto me, Fear not. I am the first and the last 18. And the living. I was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, and have the keys of hell and of death. 19. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall come to pass hereafter, 20. The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven candlesticks of gold. The seven stars are angels of the seven churches, and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are seven churches. (Revelation) Chapter 2 Four epistles warning against false teaching and exhorting to constancy. 1. And unto the angel of the church which is in Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven candlesticks of gold: 2. I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and that thou canst not bear the wicked, and hast tried them that say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars, 3. And bear, and have patience; and for my name's sake labour, and be not weary. 4. But I am against thee, because thou hast trusted in the first love. 5. Remember that from which thou hast fallen, and repent, and do the first works. But if not, I will come unto thee quickly, and will cast away thy candlestick out of his place, where thou hast not repented. 6. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the wood of life which is in the paradise of God. 8. And unto the angel of the church which is in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive: 9. I know thy works, and thy afflictions, and thy poverty, (but thou art rich,) and the blasphemy of them that say they are Jews, and are not, but are the school of Satan. 10. Be not afraid of any that thou shalt suffer. Behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried: and ye shall have tribulation ten days. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life. 11. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh there shall be no hurt from another death. 12. And unto the angel of the church which is in Pergamos write; Say ye this, that he hath a sharp two-edged sword: 13. I know what thou doest, and where thou dwellest, where Satan's throne is, and holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in the days wherein Antipas my faithful witness is slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. 14. But I have a small matter against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, which taught Balak to make a nuisance in the sight of the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 15. So you also have those who hold to the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. I hate that. 16. Repent: but if not, I will come unto thee quickly, and will have war with them by the sword of my mouth. 17. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a good testimony; and with the testimony a new name written, which no man knoweth, save he that receiveth it. 18. And unto the angel of the church that is in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, which hath eyes like unto the flame of fire, and his feet like unto brass: 19. I know thy works, and thy love, and thy service, and thy faith, and thy patience, and that the longer thou doest the more. 20. But I have a small matter against thee, that thou sufferest the woman Jezebel, which saith she is a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants, and to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. 21. And I gave her time to repent of her fornication; and she repenteth not. 22. Behold, I cast her into a bed, and them that have committed adultery with her into great tribulation, where they repent not of their works. 23. And their children will I smite to death. And all the churches shall know that I am he that searcheth the kidneys and hearts, and will give to every one of you according to your works. 24. But unto you I say, and to the rest that are at Thyatira, which have not such doctrine, and have not known the depths of Satan, I will not cast upon you another burden. 25. But that which ye have, keep until I come. 26. And whosoever overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the heathen. 27. And he shall feed them with a rod of iron, and like a potter's vessel shall he break them, 28. As I have received of my Father, and will give him the morning star. 29. He who has ears, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches! (Revelation Chapter 3 Three epistles that contain a warning against hypocrisy, indifference and carelessness concerning Christianity. 1. And unto the angel of the church which is in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works: for thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. 2. Be valiant, and strengthen the other that will die: for I have not found thy works perfect in the sight of God. 3. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and keep it, and repent. If thou wilt not watch, I will come upon thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. 4. Thou hast also few names in Sardis, which have not defiled their garments: and they shall walk with me in white raiment; for they are worthy. 5. He that overcometh shall be clothed in white raiment, and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, and I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. 6. he who has ears, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches! 7. And unto the angel of the church which is in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth, he that shutteth, and no man openeth: 8. I know thy works. Behold, I have given before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast small strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. 9. Behold, I will give out of the school of Satan them that say they are Jews, and are not, but lie. Behold, I will make them to come and worship at thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 10. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I will also keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11. Behold, I come quickly! Hold fast that which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out. And I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the new Jerusalem, the city of my God, which cometh down out of heaven from my God, and my name the new. 13. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. 14. And unto the angel of the church at Laodicea write; These things saith Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creature of God: 15. I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. Oh that thou wert cold or hot! 16. But because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17. Thou sayest, I am rich, and full, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. 18. I counsel thee to buy of me gold refined with fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness be not revealed: and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. 19. Whom I love I punish and chasten. Be diligent therefore, and do penance. 20. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock. If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will make supper with him, and he with me. 21. To him that overcometh will I give to sit with me in my throne: as I overcame, and sat with my Father in his throne. 22. He who has ears, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches! (Revelation) Chapter 4 The second vision: from the throne of the Father's majesty and glory. 1. After these things I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven; and the first voice which I heard speak unto me as a trumpet, saying, Come up hither; I will shew thee things which must come to pass after these things. 2. And immediately I was in the spirit. And, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and there sat one upon the throne. 3. And he that sat was like unto the stone of jasper and sardis: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, like unto an emerald. 4. And round about the throne were twenty and four chairs: and upon the chairs sat twenty and four elders clothed in white raiment, having on their heads crowns of gold. 5. And out of the throne proceeded lightnings, and thunderings, and voices: and seven lamps of fire burned before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. 6. And before the throne was a sea of glass like unto crystal, and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, four beasts full of eyes, before and behind. 7. And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face like a man, and the fourth beast like a flying eagle. 8. And every one of the four beasts had six wings round about, and were full of eyes within: and they had no rest day or night, saying: Holy, holy, holy is the LORD God Almighty, who was, and who is, and who is to come. 9. And when the beasts gave glory and honour and thanks unto him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, 10. And the four and twenty elders fell down before him that sat on the throne, and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, and said: 11. O LORD, thou art worthy to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and by thy will they have the being and are created. (Revelation) Chapter 5 Christ, the Lion and the Lamb, who opens the sealed book, is praised with a new song. 1. And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and without, sealed with seven seals. 2. And I saw a strong angel preach with a loud voice: Who is worthy to open the book and to break its seals? 3. And no man in heaven, nor in earth, nor under the earth, was able to open the book, and to look therein. 4. And I wept greatly, because no man was found worthy to open the book, nor to read, nor to look therein. 5. And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not. Behold, the lion that is of the seed of Judah, the root of David, hath overcome to open the book, and to break the seven seals thereof. 6. And I looked, and, behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent into all the earth. 7. And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat on the throne. 8. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and the four and twenty elders fell before the Lamb, having every man harps and golden vials full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints, 9. And they sang a new song, and said: Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou art slain, and hast bought us of God with thy blood out of all kindreds, and tongues, and people, and nations. 10. And have made us kings and priests unto our God, and we shall be kings in the earth. 11. And I saw and heard a voice of many angels round about the throne, and round about the beasts, and round about the elders; and their number was many thousand times a thousand. 12. And they said with a loud voice: The Lamb that is slain is worthy to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and praise. 13. And I heard every creature that is in heaven, and that is in earth, and that is under the earth, and that is in the sea, and all that is within, saying unto him that sat upon the throne, and unto the Lamb, Praise, and honour, and glory, and power, for ever and ever. 14. And the four beasts said: Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down, and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. (Revelation) Chapter 6 Opening six different seals. 1. And I saw the Lamb of the seals open one. And I heard one of the four beasts say, as with a voice of thunder, Come and see. 2. And I looked, and, behold, a white horse; and he that sat on him had a bow; and there was given unto him a crown: and he went forth to overcome, and to conquer. 3. And when he had opened the other seal, I heard the other beast say, Come and see. 4. And another horse came out, which was red: and it was given to him that sat on him to take peace from the earth, and to slay one another: and there was given unto him a great sword. 5. And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I looked, and, behold, a black horse; and he that sat on him had balances in his hand. 6. And I heard a voice among the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and do not harm the oil and the wine. 7. And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. 8. And, behold, I saw a pale horse, and he that sat on him, whose name was Death, and Hell followed after him. And power was given unto them to kill the fourth part of the earth with the sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. 9. And when the fifth seal was opened, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of GOD, and for the testimony which they had. 10. And they cried with a loud voice, saying: O LORD, holy and true, how long wilt thou judge and not avenge our blood upon them that dwell upon the earth? 11. And to them was given every man a white robe: and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet a little season, until their fellowservants and their brethren should come in full, and be killed as they were. 12. And I saw the sixth seal opened; and, behold, there was a great earthquake, and the sun was black as sackcloth, and the moon was as blood. 13. And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree casteth her figs when she is moved by a great wind. 14. And the heaven departed as a wrapped book; and all the mountains and islands were moved out of their places. 15. And the kings of the earth, and the rulers, and the rich men, and the captains, and the mighty men, and all the bondmen, and all the free men, hid themselves in the clefts and in the rocks of the mountains. 16. And they said unto the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; 17. For the great day of his wrath is come, and who can stand? (Revelation) Chapter 7 Consolation of the church in her afflicted state. 1. And afterward I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that no wind should blow upon the earth, nor upon the sea, nor upon any tree. (Epistle on the Day of All Saints.) 2. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God; and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to destroy the earth and the sea. 3. And he said, Damage not the earth, nor the sea, nor the trees, until we seal the servants of our God in their foreheads]. 4. And I heard the number of them that were sealed, an hundred and forty and four thousand, which were sealed of all the families of the children of Israel: 5. Of the family of Judah, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Turnab, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Gad, twelve thousand sealed; 6. Of the family of Asher, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Naphtali, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Manasseh, twelve thousand sealed; 7. Of the family of Simeon, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Levi, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Issachar, twelve thousand sealed; 8. Of the family of Zebulun, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Joseph, twelve thousand sealed; of the family of Benjamin, twelve thousand sealed. 9. After these things I looked, and, behold, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and people, and tongues, standing before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palms in their hands, 10. Cried with a loud voice, saying: Hail to Him who sits on the throne, our God, and to the Lamb! 11. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and the elders, and the four beasts, and fell on their faces before the throne, and worshipped God. 12. And they said: Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and praise and power and strength be to our God forever and ever! Amen. 13. And one of the elders answered and said unto me, Who are these that are clothed in white raiment, and whence came they? 14. And I said unto him, Lord, thou knowest. And he said unto me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15. Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple. And he that sitteth upon the throne shall dwell over them. 16. She shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun fall upon her, nor any heat. 17. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto the fountains of living waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. (Revelation) Chapter 8 The third vision and opening of the seventh seal. The first, second, third and fourth trumpets. 1. And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. 2. And I saw seven angels which stood before God, and seven trumpets were given unto them. 3. And another angel came and stood by the altar, having a golden censer: and there was given unto him much incense, to offer for the prayer of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 4. And the smoke of the incense of the prayer of the saints went up from the hand of the angel before GOD. 5. And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire from the altar, and poured it upon the earth. And there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and earthquakes. 6. And the seven angels with the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound. 7. And the first angel sounded. And there was hail and fire mingled with blood, and it fell upon the earth. And the third part of the trees was burned up, and all green grass was burned up. 8. And the other angel sounded. And it went down like a great mountain burning with fire into the sea. And the third part of the sea became blood, 9. And the third part of the living creatures of the sea died, and the third part of the ships were destroyed. 10. And the third angel sounded. And there fell a great star from heaven; and it burned as a torch, and fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters. 11. And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part was called Wormwood. And many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter. 12. And the fourth angel sounded. And the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars: and the third part of them was darkened, and the day the third part shone not, and the night the same. 13. And I saw and heard an angel fly in the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice: Woe, woe, woe to them that dwell on the earth, before the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels which are yet to sound! (Revelation) Chapter 9 The fifth and sixth trombones. 1. And the fifth angel sounded. And I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth; and there was given unto him the key of the bottomless pit. 2. And he opened the bottomless pit. And there arose a smoke out of the well, as the smoke of a great furnace: and the sun was darkened, and the air with the smoke of the well. 3. And out of the smoke came locusts upon the earth. And power was given unto them, as the scorpions have power upon the earth. 4. And it was said unto them, that they should not offend the grass of the earth, nor any green thing, nor any tree; but only men, which have not the seal of God upon their foreheads. 5. And it was given them not to kill, but to torment for five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when it smote a man. 6. And in those days men shall seek death, and shall not find it: they shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them. 7. And the locusts are like unto horses ready for war; and upon their heads like crowns of gold, and their faces like the faces of men. 8. And they had hair like the hair of a woman, and their teeth were like the teeth of lions. 9. And had armour like unto armour of iron; and the rattle of their wings like unto the rattle of the chariots of many horses that run to war. 10. And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were thorns in their tails: and their power was to offend men five months. 11. And they had over them a king, an angel out of the bottomless pit, whose name is Abaddon in the ibraean language, and in the greek language his name is Apollyon. 12. One woe is past; behold, there come two woes after. 13. And the sixth angel sounded. And I heard a voice from the four corners of the golden altar before God, 14. Which said unto the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound at the great river Euphrates. 15. And the four angels were loosed, prepared for an hour, and for a day, and for a month, and for a year, to slay the third part of men. 16. And the number of the brave men was many thousand times a thousand: and I heard the number of them. 17. And so I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of yellow, and of brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouth proceeded fire, and smoke, and brimstone. 18. Of these three the third part of men was killed by fire, and by smoke, and by brimstone, which proceeded out of their mouths. 19. For their power was in their mouth, and their tails were like unto serpents, and they had heads, and with the same they did hurt. 20. And there remained yet men that were not slain of these plagues, neither Repenting of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and wood, which can neither see, nor hear, nor walk, 21. Neither repented they of their murders, and of their sorceries, and of their fornications, and of their thievery. (Revelation) Chapter 10 John is devouring a book. 1. And I saw another strong angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud, and a rainbow upon his head, and his face as the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire. 2. And he had a little book opened in his hand; and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot upon the earth. 3. And he cried with a loud voice, as a lion roareth: and as he cried, seven thunders uttered their voices. 4. And when the seven thunders had spoken their voices, I would have written them. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up the things which the seven thunders have spoken: write them not. 5. And the angel which I saw standing on the sea and on the earth lifted up his hand to heaven. 6. And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, which created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things that therein are, that there should be no more time, 7. But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall sound, the mystery of God shall be finished, as he hath declared to his servants and prophets. 8. And again I heard a voice from heaven speaking unto me, saying, Go, take the open book of the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth. 9. And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take thee up, and swallow it: and it shall be bitter in thy belly, but in thy mouth it shall be sweet as honey; 10. And I took the little book from the angel's hand, and swallowed it: and it was sweet in my mouth as honey: and when I had eaten it, it grieved me in my belly. 11. And he said unto me, Prophesy again unto the nations, and to the Gentiles, and to the tongues, and to many kings. Ch. 11, v. 1: And there was given me a reed like unto a rod, saying, Arise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein. 2. But the inner choir of the temple cast out, and miss it not: for it is given unto the heathen: and they shall tread down the holy city forty and two months. (Revelation) Chapter 11 Of two witnesses, their office and condition. 3. And I will give my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed with sackcloth. 4. These are two olive trees, and two torches, standing before the God of the earth. 5. And if any man offend them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man offend them, he shall be put to death. 6. These have power to shut up the heavens, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy; and have power over the waters to walk in blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will. 7. And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that cometh up out of the bottomless pit shall make war with them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. 8. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which is spiritually called Sodom, and Egypt, where our Lord is crucified. 9. And some of the nations, and kindreds, and tongues, shall see their dead bodies three days and an half: and they shall not leave their dead bodies in graves. 10. And they that dwell on the earth shall rejoice over them, and be glad, and send gifts one to another: for these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth. 11. And after three days and an half there came into them the Spirit of life from God, and they stood upon their feet. And great fear fell upon them when they saw. 12. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up into heaven in a cloud: and they saw their enemies. 13. And in that hour there was a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and seven thousand names of men were killed in the earthquake: and the rest were afraid, and gave glory unto the God of heaven. 14. The second woe is past; behold, the third woe cometh quickly! (Revelation) Chapter 12 The seventh trumpet. The fourth vision: of the battle. Michael against the dragon. 15. And the seventh angel sounded. And there were great voices in heaven, saying: The kingdoms of the world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ: and he shall reign for ever and ever. 16. And the four and twenty elders that sat in their seats before GOD fell upon their faces, and worshipped GOD. 17. And they said: We thank thee, O LORD God Almighty, which art, and hast been, and ever shall be, that thou hast received thy great power, and hast reigned. 18. And the heathen were wroth, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, to judge, and to give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and to them that fear thy name, small and great, and to destroy them which destroy the earth. 19. And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of his testament was seen in his temple: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and earthquakes, and great hail. Ch. 12, v. 1: And there appeared a great sign in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars. 2. And she was with child, and cried, and was in childbearing, and had great anguish in childbirth. 3. And there appeared another sign in heaven; and, behold, a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his heads seven crowns. 4. And his tail drew the third part of the stars, and cast them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman that was to bear, that, when she had born, he might devour her child. 5. And she bare a son, a babe, which should feed all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. 6. And the woman fled into the wilderness, having a place prepared of God, that she should be nourished there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. (Epistle on Michaelmas.) 7. And there was a controversy in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon. And the dragon strove, and his angels 8. And they prevailed not: neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9. And there was cast out a great dragon, a serpent clovenfooted, which is called the devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: and he was cast out into the earth; and his angels also were cast out thither. 10. And I heard a great voice saying in heaven, Now is salvation, and strength, and the kingdom, and the power of our God, his Christ, come to pass; because the accuser of our brethren is cast out, which accuseth them before God day and night. 11. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony: and they loved not their lives unto the death. 12. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell therein:] Woe unto them that dwell on the earth, and on the sea: for the devil cometh down unto you, having great wrath, and knowing that he hath but a short time. 13. And when the dragon saw that he was cast down to the earth, he persecuted the woman which bare the babe. 14. And there were given unto the woman two wings, as of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness unto her place, to feed her for a time, and for two times, and for half a time, before the face of the serpent. 15. And the serpent shot out of the woman's mouth waters like a river, and drowned her. 16. But the earth helped the woman, and opened her mouth, and swallowed up the river which the dragon cast out of his mouth. 17. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to fight with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Revelation) Chapter 13 Of the seven-headed beast of blasphemy and two-headed beast of seduction. 18. And I stood upon the sand of the sea. Ch. 13, v. 1: And he saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2. And the beast that I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were the feet of a bear, and his mouth the mouth of a lion. And the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. 3. And I saw one of his heads as it were deadly sore: and his deadly wound was healed. And all the earth marvelled at the beast. 4. And they worshipped the dragon that gave power unto the beast, and worshipped the beast, saying: Who is like unto the beast? and who can war with him? 5. And there was given unto him a mouth to speak great things and blasphemies: and it was given unto him to continue with him forty and two months. 6. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7. And it was given unto him to contend with the saints, and to overcome them. And power was given unto him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. 8. And all that dwell on the earth worship him, whose names are not written in the living book of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. 9. if anyone has ears, let him hear! 10. If a man lead into prison, he shall go into prison: if a man kill with the sword, he shall be put to death with the sword. Here is the patience and faith of the saints. 11. And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, having two horns like unto the lamb, and speaking as the dragon. 12. And he doeth all the power of the first beast before him: and he maketh the earth, and them that dwell therein, to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13. And shew great signs, that he also maketh fire come down from heaven in the sight of men: 14. And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth to do signs in the sight of the beast, because of the signs which are given him: and saith unto them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound of the sword, and came to life. 15. And it was given unto him to give the spirit to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should speak; and to make them that worshipped not the image of the beast to be destroyed. 16. And made all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads, 17. That no man might buy or sell, except he had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. 18. Here is wisdom Let him that hath understanding consider the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man, and his number is six hundred threescore and six. (Revelation) Chapter 14 Of the Church Reformation by the Gospel and the Fall of Spiritual Babel. 1. And I saw a Lamb standing on mount Zion, and with him an hundred and forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads. 2. And I heard a voice from heaven as of a great water, and as the voice of a great thunder: and the voice that I heard was as of harpers playing upon their harps. 3. And they sang as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and before the elders: and no man could learn the song, save the hundred and forty and four thousand that were bought of the earth. 4. These are they which are not defiled with women: for they are virgins, and follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These are bought of men for the firstfruits of God and of the Lamb. 5. And in their mouth is no falsehood found: for they are blameless before the throne of God. (Epistle on the commemoration day of the Reformation.) 6. And I saw an angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that sit and dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people; 7. And said with a loud voice: Fear God and give Him glory, for the time of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth and the sea and the fountains of waters]. 8. And another angel followed, saying, She is fallen, she is fallen, Babylon the great city: for she hath made all nations drink of the wine of her fornication. 9. And the third angel followed him, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast, and his image, and receive the mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10. He shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out and made pure in the cup of his wrath: and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone before the holy angels, and before the Lamb. 11. And the smoke of their torment shall ascend for ever and ever: and they shall have no rest day nor night, who have worshipped the beast and his image, and have received the mark of his name. 12. Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 13. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the LORD from henceforth. Yea, the Spirit saith, that they may rest from their labour: for their works follow them. 14. And I saw, and, behold, a white cloud, and sitting upon the cloud a man like unto the Son of man, having a crown of gold upon his head, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice unto him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come to reap: for the harvest of the earth is become dry. 16. And he that sat on the cloud smote the earth with his sickle, and the earth was reaped. 17. And another angel went out of the temple which is in heaven, having a sharp sickle. 18. And another angel came out of the altar, having power over fire, and cried with a loud cry unto him that had the sharp hoof, saying, Smite with thy sharp hoof, and cut the grapes of the earth: for their berries are ripe. 19. And the angel smote the earth with his hoof, and cut down the branches of the earth, and cast them into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20. And the winepress was pressed without the city: and the blood went out of the winepress unto the bridles of the horses a thousand six hundred furlongs. (Revelation) Chapter 15 The fifth vision: of the seven last plagues and the believers' song of praise. 1. And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues: for with them the wrath of God is finished. 2. And he saw a sea of glass mingled with fire; and they that had the victory in the beast, and in his image, and in his mark, and in the number of his name, stood by the sea of glass, having the harps of God. 3. And they sang the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying: Great and marvelous are thy works, O LORD God Almighty: just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. 4. Who shall not fear thee, O LORD, and praise thy name? For thou alone art holy. For all nations shall come and worship before thee: for thy judgments are revealed. 5. After these things I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened. 6. And out of the temple went the seven angels which had the seven plagues, clothed in clean linen, and girded in their breasts with golden girdles. 7. And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, which liveth for ever and ever. 8. And the temple was filled with smoke for the glory of God, and for his power: and no man could enter into the temple, until the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished. (Revelation) Chapter 16 The bowls of divine wrath are poured out by the seven angels. 1. And I heard a great voice out of the temple, saying unto the seven angels: Go ye, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth. 2. And the first went and poured out his vial upon the earth. And there was a wicked and evil gland in them that had the mark of the beast, and that worshipped his image. 3. And the other angel poured out his vial into the sea. And there was blood, as of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea. 4. And the third angel poured out his vial into the rivers of water, and into the fountains of waters. And there was blood. 5. And I heard the angel say, Lord, thou art righteous, which art, and which was, and holy, that thou hast judged these things. 6. For they have shed the blood of the saints and of the prophets, and blood hast thou given them to drink: for they are worthy. 7. And I heard another angel out of the altar say, Yea, Lord God Almighty, thy judgments are true and righteous. 8. And the fourth angel poured out his vial into the sun, and it was given unto him to make man hot with fire. 9. And men were hot with great heat, and blasphemed the name of GOD, which hath power over these plagues; and repented not to give him glory. 10. And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the throne of the beast. And his kingdom was darkened; and they gnawed their tongues for pain. 11. And blasphemed God in heaven for their pains, and for their glands; and repented not of their works. 12. And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the waters dried up, that the way might be prepared for the kings from the rising of the sun. 13. And I saw out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like unto frogs. 14. And there are spirits of devils, which do signs, and go forth unto the kings of the earth, and to all the world, to gather them together to battle for that great day of God Almighty. 15. Behold, I come as a thief! Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and his shame be seen. 16. And he gathered them together unto a place which is called in the ibex Armageddon. 17. And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air. And there went out a voice from heaven out of the throne, saying, It is done. 18. And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so great an earthquake. 19. And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the heathen fell. And Babylon the great was remembered before God, to give her the cup of wine of his fierce anger. 20. And all the isles fled away, and no mountains were found. 21. And a great hail of a talent fell from heaven upon men. And men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for his plague is very great. (Revelation) Chapter 17 The sixth face: description of the antichristian kingdom under the image of a great harlot. 1. And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, and said unto me, Come, and I will shew thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters, 2. With whom the kings of the earth, and they that dwell on the earth, have been drunken with the wine of their fornication. 3. And he brought me in the spirit into the wilderness. And I saw the woman sitting upon a beast of a scarlet colour, full of the name of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4. And the woman was clothed in scarlet and scarlet, and overlaid with gold, and precious stones, and pearls, and had a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication; 5. And in her forehead was written the name, the mystery, Great Babylon, the mother of fornication, and of all the abominations of the earth. 6. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the witnesses of JEsu. And I marvelled greatly when I saw her. 7. And the angel said unto me, Wherefore art thou astonished? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath seven heads and ten horns. 8. The beast which thou sawest was, and is not; and shall come again out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast, that he was, and is not, though he be. 9. And here is the sense where wisdom belongeth. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth, and are seven kings. 10. Five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must tarry a little while. 11. And the beast that was, and is not, is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. 12. And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have not yet received the kingdom; but as kings they shall receive power with the beast for a time. 13. these have an opinion and will give their strength and power to the beast. 14. These shall contend with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is the Lord of lords, and the King of kings; and with him the called, and the chosen, and the faithful. 15. And he said unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are nations, and multitudes, and heathen, and tongues. 16. And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate, and bare, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. 17. For God hath put it into their hearts to do his mind, and to do one mind, and to give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God should be finished. 18. And the woman which thou sawest is the great city, which hath dominion over the kings of the earth. (Revelation) Chapter 18 Of the fall and punishment of the antichrist empire. 1. And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his brightness. 2. And cried with a loud voice out of power, saying, She is fallen, she is fallen, Babylon the great, and is become a habitation of devils, and a hold of all unclean spirits, and a hold of all unclean and hostile birds. 3. For of the wine of the wrath of her fornication have all the heathen drunk; and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and her merchants have waxed rich by her great lust. 4. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, that ye receive not of her plagues; 5. for their sins reach to heaven, and GOD remembers their iniquity. 6. Pay her even as she hath paid you, and make it double unto her according to her works: and with what cup she hath poured for you, pour it double unto her. 7. As much as she hath made herself glorious, and hath had her wantonness, so much giveth her anguish and sorrow. For she saith in her heart, I sit and am a queen, and shall not be a widow, neither shall I see sorrow. 8. Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and sorrow, and famine: she shall be burned with fire. For strong is God the LORD, which shall judge them. 9. And the kings of the earth shall weep over her, and mourn over her, which have trespassed against her, and wrought wickedness with her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning. 10. And shall stand afar off for fear of her torment, and shall say: Woe, woe, the great city Babylon, the strong city! In one hour is thy judgment come. 11. And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn for themselves, because no man buyeth their merchandise, 12. The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and pearls, and silk, and purple, and scarlet, and all manner of pinewood, and all manner of vessels of ivory, and all manner of vessels of precious wood, and of brass, and of iron, and of marble 13. And cinnamon, and thyme, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and bread rolls, and wheat, and cattle, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and dead bodies, and souls of men. 14. And the fruit which thy soul lusted after is departed from thee; and all that was perfect and glorious is departed from thee; and thou shalt find it no more. 15. The merchants of such merchandise as are made rich by it shall stand afar off for fear of their torment, weeping and wailing. 16. Saying, Woe, woe, that great city, which was clothed in silk, and purple, and scarlet, and overlaid with gold, and precious stones, and pearls! 17. For in one hour all these riches are wasted. And all the masters of the ships, and the company that work in the ships, and the mariners that work in the sea, shall stand afar off. 18. And when they saw the smoke of their burning, they cried out, saying: Who is like unto the great city? 19. And they cast dust upon their heads, and cried, and wept, and lamented, saying: Woe, woe! the great city, wherein were made rich all they that had ships in the sea, of their merchandise! For in one hour it is laid waste. 20. Rejoice over her, O heavens, and you holy apostles and prophets! For GOD has executed your judgment upon her. 21. And a strong angel took up a great stone for a millstone, and cast it into the sea, and said, Thus with a tempest shall that great city Babylon be cast down, and shall be found no more. 22. And the voice of singers, and of stringers, and of pipers, and of trumpeters, shall be heard no more in thee; neither shall any craftsman of any craft be found in thee any more; neither shall the voice of the mill be heard in thee any more; 23. And the light of the lamp shall shine no more in thee; neither shall the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride be heard any more in thee: for thy merchants were princes in the earth: for by thy sorceries are all the heathen perverted. 24. And the blood of the prophets and of the saints was found in it, and of all them that were slain upon the earth. (Revelation) Chapter 19 Triumphal song of the elect concerning the execution of God's judgment, concerning the great harlot. 1. After these things I heard a voice of great multitudes in heaven, saying: Hallelujah! Salvation and glory, honor and power be to God our Lord! 2. For true and righteous are his judgments, because he hath condemned the great whore, which corrupted the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. 3. And they said again, Alleluia. And the smoke goeth up for ever. 4. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down, and worshipped GOD that sat upon the throne, saying: Amen Hallelujah! 5. And there came a voice from the throne, saying, Praise our God, all his servants, and them that fear him, both small and great. 6. And I heard a voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of great waters, and as the voice of mighty thunders, saying: Hallelujah! For the Almighty God has taken the kingdom. 7. Let us rejoice and be glad, and give him glory: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 8. And it was given unto her to be clothed in pure and beautiful silk. (And the silk is the righteousness of the saints.) 9. And he said unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the supper of the Lamb. And he said unto me, These are true words of GOD. 10. And I fell down before him at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, Behold, do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren, and of them that have the testimony of JEsu. Worship GOD! (But the testimony of JEsu is the spirit of prophecy). 11. And I saw heaven opened, and, behold, a white horse, and he that sat on him was called Faithful and True, judging and contending with righteousness. 12. And his eyes were as a flame of fire, and upon his head many crowns: and he had a name written, which no man knew but he himself. 13. And was clothed with a garment sprinkled with blood: and his name is called the word of God. 14. And after him followed the host of heaven upon white horses, clothed in white and pure silk. 15. And out of his mouth went a sharp sword, to smite the heathen therewith: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron. And he treadeth the winepress of the fierce wrath of the Almighty God. 16. And he hath a name written upon his garment, and upon his thigh, saying, A King of kings, and a Lord of lords. 17. And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying unto all the fowls that fly under heaven, Come and be gathered together unto the supper of the great God, 18. That ye should eat the flesh of kings, and of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of every free man, and of every bondman, both small and great. 19. And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered together to make war with him that sat on the horse, and with his army. 20. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought the signs before him, whereby he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped the image of the beast: and they were both cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21. And the rest were slain with the sword of him that sat on the horse, which proceeded out of his mouth. And all the birds were filled with their flesh. (Revelation) Chapter 20 Of the bound and dissolved dragon, of Gog and Magog, of the Last Judgement. 1. And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit, and a great chain in his hand. 2. And took hold of the dragon, that old serpent, which is the devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years. 3. And he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and sealed the top thereof, that he should not deceive the heathen, until a thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little while. 4. And I saw chairs, and they sat thereon, and judgment was given unto them: and the souls of them that were beheaded for the testimony of JESUS, and for the word of GOD, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; these lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5. And the rest of the dead lived not again, till the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the other death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. 7. And when a thousand years are fulfilled, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison. 8. And he shall go out to deceive the heathen of the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, as the sand of the sea. 9. And they stood upon the breadth of the earth, and compassed the host of the saints, and the beloved city. And the fire of GOD fell from heaven and consumed them. 10. And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet were: and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. 11. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was no place found for them. 12. And I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God. And the books were opened; and another book was opened, which is of life. And the dead were judged according to the writing in the books, according to their works. 13. And the sea gave up the dead which were therein; and death and hell gave up the dead which were therein. And they were judged every man according to their works. 14. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the other death. 15. And if any man be not found written in the book of life, he is cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation) Chapter 21 The seventh face: of the new Jerusalem. (Epistle on the day of the church consecration.) 1. And I saw a new heaven and a new earth. For the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and the sea is no more. 2. And I, John, saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3. And heard a great voice from the throne, saying, Behold, a tabernacle of GOD with men! And he shall dwell with them; and they shall be his people, and he himself, GOD with them, shall be their GOD. 4. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. And there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, nor pain: for the former things are passed away. 5. And he that sat on the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he saith unto me, Write; for these words are true and certain]. 6. And he said unto me, It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the ending. I will give to him that thirsteth of the fountain of living waters freely. 7. He that overcometh shall inherit all things: and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8. But to them that are perverse, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part shall be in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone; which is the second death. 9. And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and spake unto me, saying, Come, and I will shew thee the bride of the Lamb. 10. And he brought me up in the Spirit into a great and high mountain, and shewed me the great city, even the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. 11. And had the glory of God: and the light thereof was like unto the most precious stone, a bright jasper. 12. And had great and high walls, and had twelve gates, and upon the gates twelve angels, and names written, which are the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: 13. From the morning three gates, from midnight three gates, from noon three gates, from evening three gates. 14. And the wall of the city had twelve bases, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the walls thereof. 16. And the city is foursquare, and the length thereof is as great as the breadth thereof. And he measured the city with a reed twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of the city are equal. 17. And he measured their walls an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man that the angel hath. 18. And the building of their walls was of jasper, and the city of pure gold, like unto pure glass. 19. And the bases of the walls and of the city were adorned with all manner of precious stones. The first ground was a jasper; the second, a sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald, 20. the fifth a sardonich, the sixth a sardis, the seventh a chrysolite, the eighth a beryl, the ninth a topazian, the tenth a chrysoprase, the eleventh a hyacinth, the twelfth an amethyst. 21. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; and every gate was of one pearl. And the streets of the city were all gold, as it were transparent glass. 22. And I saw no temple therein: for the LORD God Almighty is their temple, and the Lamb. 23. And the city hath no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine unto it: for the glory of God lighteth it, and the Lamb is the lamp thereof. 24. And the Gentiles which shall be saved shall walk in the same light. And the kings of the earth shall bring their glory into the same. 25. And their gates shall not be shut by day: for there shall be no night. 26. And the glory and honour of the Gentiles shall be brought into them. 27. And there shall not enter in any of them that are vile, and that do abominations, and that speak lies; but they which are written in the living book of the Lamb. (Revelation) Chapter 22 Of the certain joy of eternal life. 1. And he shewed me a clear stream of living water, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2. In the midst of their street, and on both sides of the river, stood the wood of life, which bare twelve kinds of fruit, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the wood were for the health of the heathen. 3. And there shall be no more banishment: and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him. 4. And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. 5. And there shall be no night, neither need of a lamp, nor of the light of the sun: for God the LORD shall give them light, and they shall reign for ever and ever. 6. And he said unto me, These words are sure and true. And God, the LORD of the holy prophets, hath sent his angel to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass. 7. Behold, I come quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book. 8. And I am John, which have seen and heard these things. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 9. And he saith unto me, Behold, do it not: for I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them that keep the words of this book; worship GOD. 10. And he saith unto me, Seal not up the words of the prophecy which are in this book: for the time is at hand. 11. Whosoever is evil, let him be evil; and whosoever is unclean, let him be unclean. But let him that is righteous be righteous; and let him that is holy be holy. 12. And, behold, I come quickly, and my reward with me, to give every man according as his works shall be. 13. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. 14. Blessed are they that keep his commandments, that their power may be upon the tree of life, and that they may enter into the gates of the city. 15. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and all that love and do deceit. 16. I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify unto you in the churches. I am the root of the family of David, a bright morning star. 17. And the Spirit and the bride say: Come; and whosoever heareth, let him say, Come; and whosoever thirsteth, let him come; and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. 18. And I testify unto all them that hear the words of this prophecy which are written in this book, If any man add unto them, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book. 19. And if any man depart from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the book of life, and from the holy city, and from those things which are written in this book. 20. He that testifieth these things saith, Yea, I come quickly. Amen. Yes, come, Lord Jesus! 21. the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. End of the New Testament